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Sunday, December 31, 2006 at 08:50:47 (MST) Name: WALTER HARDY,JR.
Rank/Rate: ABH-I USN RETIRED Division/Squadron: V-1 AND V-3 DIVISIONS Years Aboard: 22OCT64 TO 6APR68 AND 17JUN77 TO 12SEPT83 Comments: WELL FELLOW SHIPMATES THIS IS THE END OF 2006 AND ANOTHER GREAT YEAR BEHIND US ALL AS WE LOOK FORWARD TO 2007 WITH ALL THE CHEER AND HAPPINESS WE HAD THE YEARS BEFORE. ALL YOU AB'S OUT THERE KEEP STROKING THOSE BIRDS ON ALL THE BIRD FARMS OUT THERE SAILING THE SEVEN SEAS BUT THE GREAT ONE HAS GONE BUT HER MEMORIES WILL LAST US ALL A WHOLE LIFETIME. WALT THE SALT!!!!
Sunday, December 31, 2006 at 08:16:21 (MST) Name: R.W.Cotton aka R.Willie
Rank/Rate: ms2 Division/Squadron: s-2 / (s-5 for a few months) Years Aboard: 76-79 Comments: This is my last entry for year of our LORD 2006. Happy New Year Shipmates and GOD bless.
Saturday, December 30, 2006 at 09:00:00 (MST) Name: Bob Blough
Rank/Rate: 1Lt, USAF Division/Squadron: 40 Air Rescue Squadron Years Aboard: 1975 Comments: Landed my HH-53 Jolly Green Giant the night of 15 May 75 with 37 tuckered out Marines and Corpsmen (some wounded) fresh from Koh Tang, Cambodia. Sure was easier landing on the Coral Sea than it was on the Holt (FF-1074).
Thanks for your hospitality and your patience dealing with us AF rookies. And thanks for the JP-5!
I'm grateful to have survived that night and 20 years flying AF helos. Wishing you all a happy, healthy 2007.
Bob Blough, LtCol, USAFR (Ret)
Friday, December 29, 2006 at 14:02:54 (MST) Name: William K. Harris
Rank/Rate: CDR Division/Squadron: Training Department/ESO Years Aboard: 1987-1990 Comments: I served onboard from 30 December 1987 to 30 April 1990. I was attached to the Training Department my whole tour as the Educational Services Officer. My department head was LCDR Thomas (Bubba) Carlson. He stayed with the CORAL SEA during decommissoning at Portsmouth after 30 April.
Monday, December 25, 2006 at 22:49:07 (MST) Name: Michael D Halley
Comments: Would love to hear from shipmates. Retired USN in 1993 and now serve as a pastor in Suffolk, VA. Happy New Year and God bless!
Monday, December 25, 2006 at 15:22:32 (MST) Name: WALTER HARDY,JR.
Rank/Rate: ABH-I USN RETIRED Division/Squadron: V-I AND V-3 DIVISION Years Aboard: 22OCT64 TO 6APR68 AND 17JUN77 TO 12SEPT83 Comments: MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEARS TO ALL MY FELLOW SHIPMATES WHO SERVED WITH ME ABOARD THE GREATEST AIRCRAFT CARRIER AFLOAT. ONCE AGAIN I READ AN INCORRECTION THIS GOES OUT TO RICHARD PARKER LI-3 THE CORAL SEA THAT 1964 TO 1965 WESTPAC LEFT HAWAII JANUARY 16,1965 THE DAY AFTER CAPTAIN GEORGE L. CASSELL RELIEVED CAPTAIN PIERRE N. CHARBONNET,JR. ON JANUARY 15,1965. WE STOPPED IN SUBIC BAY FOR FOUR HOUR AND TEN PERCENT OF THE CREW GOT LIBERTY TO CUBI POINT THAT DAY FEBRUARY 6,1965 AND MOST OF US INCLUDING MYSELF DIDN'T TOUCH LAND AGAIN UNTIL WE CAME BACK TO SUBIC BAY MARCH 6,1965 FIVE DAYS AFTER MY 19TH BIRTHDAY WHICH I SPENT WITH THE REST OF THE CREW OFF THE COAST OF NORTH VIETNAM OUT IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA AND TONKIN GULF. THAT WAS 50 STRAIGHT DAYS ON THE WATER BEFORE WE TOUCHED LAND AGAIN. RICHARD YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT THAT CRUISE BOOK YOU GUYS MAKE ON THE SHIP BECAUSE I HAD THE CRUISE BOOK WORKING PARTY UP ON THE FORWARD MESSDECKS PUTTING ALL THOSE PAGES TOGETHER FOR EACH CRUISE BOOK STRETCHED OUT ON TABLES ONE PAGE AFTER THE NEXT UNTIL THE WHOLE BOOK WAS COMPLETE AND WE START ALL OVER AGAIN AND AGAIN AND I'M LOOKING AT MINE RIGHT NOW BUT THOSE WERE THE DAYS LONG AGO. NOW WE ALL ARE OLDER AND HOPEFULLY WISER. YOUR FIRST CRUISE IN 1963 WAS MUCH BETTER THAN MINE THEN BUT STILL IT LEFT A VERY LASTING IMPRESSION ON US ALL. I HAD GUYS IN MY DIVISION V-3 AT THE TIME MAKE THE FIRST THREE WESTPACS AFTER BEING RECOMMISSIONED AND ALL I HEARD WAS THE CORAL SEA WAS A ISLAND HOPPER WITH TWO WEEKS AT SEA BEFORE GOING TO THE NEXT INPORT VISIT AND OUR CRUISE SCHEDULE BEFORE WE WENT TO COMBAT STATED JUST THAT AND WE WERE SUPPOSED TO HAVE GONE BACK TO SIDNEY THAT CRUISE FOR THE BATTLE OF THE CORAL SEA REUNION DOWN THERE BUT IT NEVER HAPPENED. WELL THAT'S HISTORY FOR NOW. HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL YOU AB'S OUT THERE STROKING ALL THOSE BIRDS. WALT THE SALT!!!!
Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 09:22:21 (MST) Name: Mike (Oscar ) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BT FN Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974-77 Comments: Merry Christmas TO ALL, Please remember to say a prayer to ALL in uniform, We were once at sea for Christmas, 1975... God Bless. Mike (Oscar ) Pfeffer
Friday, December 22, 2006 at 13:36:45 (MST) Name: don grimes
Rank/Rate: BT-2 Division/Squadron: B Years Aboard: 1955-1957 Comments: LOOKING FOR WILLIAM (BILL) MOLL FROM ILL.
Friday, December 22, 2006 at 04:23:52 (MST) Name: Richard Parker
Rank/Rate: LI3 Division/Squadron: X Years Aboard: 63 to65 Comments: Iwas 17 when I reported aboard in Frisco.A green kid from Indiana that had`t seen anything bigger than a movie theater in his life. For the next 3 years she made a fine home. I found this sight just few days ago and what fond memories have came to mind. 63 west pac was the greatest days. 64 west pac kept everyone pretty busy. I remember the 60 days at sea with just a few hour brake in Subic. Everyone was wondering what the hell was going on. It was nothing like the fisrt cruise. Yes Huck we did print the cruise book. I hated that Job more than anything we printed but now I`m so glad we did it. Since I found this sight I have made contact with several old friends. What great memories. To all my fellow shipmates have a Merry Christmas And a Happy New Year.
Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 14:57:00 (MST) Name: Jon Allen
Rank/Rate: MM3 Division/Squadron: "A" Gang Years Aboard: 85-89 Comments: First off, Holiday Greetings to all...we made it to another New Year!
Secondly, I always find it interesting how many of the guys I knew during my 4 years on board Coral Sea have never shown up on this site. You always gotta wonder...kinda like a high school reunion, when people don't show up. Did they get the word? Did they croak? You just never know. In any case, if we crossed paths I hope you're still above ground (at least in most cases I hope that) and life is/has been good to you.
Lastly, after 21 years in the Canoe Club, I'm crossing over to the Dark Side. I've been an engineer (civilian) in Public Works at Naval Station Everett since the Navy commissioned it, (homeport of USS Abraham Lincoln) and new opportunities now await. With a "tentative" deployment date of Feb. 4, 2007 I have been offered and have accepted a position with the Army Corps of Engineers in Kabul, Afghanistan. It's a one-year committment with four options years attached, which means I may be there for five years.
It's a great opportunity to get these people back on their feet by rebuilding the infrastructure that Russia decimated in the 80's. Because the country was so ravaged, it was ripe for scum like the Taliban and Al Queda to move in and set up shop. By rebuilding their roads, schools, hospitals and facilities for the Afghan Army, these people will become stronger, and the Muslim fanatics and their desires to attack America in the most cowardly ways possible will be kept in check.
In '86, Coral Sea steamed into the Gulf of Sidra and gave Quaddafi the jolt needed to put terrorism on notice that the U.S. could drop 'em right where they stood. With all target's hit, and everyone back on board safely, not only was it the most successful strike against terrorism ever (and since), but it was planned and executed in the course of a month. I will always be proud to have been on board CV-43 when Operation El Dorado Canyon took place.
That's how it's done. You sure didn't hear much out of Mohmar after that, did you?
Now, 20 years later, I find I have the same desire to be part of something that makes a difference. I can thank USS CORAL SEA for that. I will be one of 120 civilians for the ACOE who have volunteered for this assignment. Not only does it make a difference to the people of the 4th poorest country on earth, but it also makes the operational base of these cowardly organizations smaller and smaller. I'll be a Project/Construction Manager which means I'll be in some pretty remote places decked out in Kevlar with a 9mm, along with a SeaBee crew, materials, equipment, and blueprints with a mission of "Make It Happen". It's a great challenge which, much like 20 years ago will broaden my horizons and give me a great satisfaction knowing I'm part of defending America against terrorism.
If it wasn't for the Coral Sea and the U.S. Navy, I wouldn't have this opportunity, nor would I know what it's like to feel the pride of being an AMERICAN. For those of you who knew me back in '86, I know this comes as a bit of shock and I'm probably the last person you would have thought would be writing these words. Well, there you go.
Some of us are servants of change, and some of us feel the need to effect it. When you believe in something, you defend it. I'm honored to have this opportunity, and if somehow I can get my hands on a few nice big flags with the Coral Sea emblem on it, I'd like to post one at each project I complete as a "finishing touch" sending a message to those who are motivated by terrorism...
"CV-43. We're baaaaaaack....."
I understand the Internet connection is one thing that's in pretty good shape over there and communications are well established. If possible, I'll be checking in from time to time.
God Bless all you Coral Sea vet's. Best of everything in the New Year!
Jon Allen
Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 11:51:55 (MST) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: Just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year from the Buckeye State. Walt "the Salt" Hardy, Ed Burkhardt, and John Tipton are some of my buddies that I have been in contact with lately. Later, Texx
Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 08:52:12 (MST) Name: Gary Eyer
Rank/Rate: IS2 Division/Squadron: VA-55 Years Aboard: 87-90 Comments: I would be interested to hear from anyone who was in VA-55 or the Intel center, when I was aboard.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 05:08:38 (MST) Name: Wayne Smith
Rank/Rate: AO3 Division/Squadron: Weapons/ G2 Hgr Years Aboard: 82-85 Comments: Got on in the P.I. at the end of a west-pac, and made the world cruise don't mind telling you I was scared to death at first. Man those days sucked back then sure miss them now though. I saw the pictures of her being scrapped and it felt like I was being cut apart. I got out in Norfolk and now I'm a Deputy Sheriff, thats gonna shock those of you who knew me then great site.
Monday, December 18, 2006 at 18:39:13 (MST) Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3 Division/Squadron: Communications Years Aboard: 1983-1988 Comments: Merry Christmas, and may God bless all of you and your family's in the New Year. Darrell Young
Sunday, December 17, 2006 at 21:45:08 (MST) Name: Dennis Elleflot
Rank/Rate: ATN-3 Division/Squadron: VF-154 Years Aboard: 1964-65 Comments: Coral Sea was my first ship. I remember the day Lcdr Shumaker was shot down and captured. He was the first of many losses I saw throughout the war. His name was in Stars and Stipes when he and others were released by the Hanoi government. He went on the complete a very successful naval career retiring as an admiral.
Sunday, December 17, 2006 at 09:30:41 (MST) Name: A. Norman
Rank/Rate: BM-3 Years Aboard: 2 Comments: Hello fellow crew members. I just wanted to let everyone know that I have a nice 8 1/2"x 11" photo of the USS Coral Seas, framed and hanging on my wall for all to see. I will be glad to send you a copy for you to frame if you are interested. Write to me at my email address and I will send you one. Just pay for shipping cost(how much does it cost to send a sheet of paper, very little). Also if you want I will have it framed. Just let me know. Hope to her from you very soon.
Friday, December 15, 2006 at 11:22:40 (MST) Name: Michael
Comments: http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dh4w4wb_373r3n7 google
Monday, December 11, 2006 at 17:33:41 (MST) Name: Deanna
Comments: Looking for shipmates of my father, Larry R. Goodson who served aboard the Coral Sea in Aviation Ordinance from 1968-1971. He and I visited the Navy Memorial in DC earlier this year and it brought back a lot of memories. Would love to forward some comments from old friends to him for Christmas. If anyone remembers serving with him please e-mail me. Thank you.
Monday, December 11, 2006 at 13:00:03 (MST) Name: Dave McLean
Rank/Rate: AMHAN Division/Squadron: VA-97 Years Aboard: 1981-1983 Comments: To all the members of this site and there respected family's. I have been pondering on an Idea that had been brought up to me by Bob. I am currently building a second race car and was wondering if this might be of some interest to any or all of you.. I have already reserved the #43 for the second car (since I didn't have much time) and I thought maybe about putting the USS CORAL sea on the car as one of the sponsored names. I can get a logo of the USS CORAL SEA for the hood and rear quarter panels and make this a dedication car to all who served and there family's. The only thing is I can't afford 2 cars on my own. I am going to need at least $3500.00 to be able to afford to run this car for some of the season and also be able to make the big race at the end of the season at another track... I can get more details about it as the year progresses..(other track) So if this is of interest to any or all of you please feel free to contact me at WinterHeatRacing@aol.com
I am currently sponored by the Rock group SCORPIONS, Skips Cement,Badlands Bar & Grill and Southern Haven Homes... You can see pictures of my other car on MYSPACE winterheatracing.. I will have a web site soon..
Thank you for your time and interest..
Dave McLean
Thursday, December 07, 2006 at 20:56:32 (MST) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. " Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: Walt, like I said before I still to this day remember things you taught me almost 25 years ago. I agree with you that the Coral Sea is still the greatest carrier there was or will be. It was my only ship, but I am very very proud to have been a part of her crew. I wear a Coral Sea cap all the time and get comments from an a lot of people around home who were either former crew members or had friends or relatives who were. It makes me feel like I am doing my part to keep the memory alive. Merry Christmas to you and all the Coral Sea shipmates. Later from the Buckeye state, Texx
Thursday, December 07, 2006 at 09:27:20 (MST) Name: WALTER HARDY,JR.
Rank/Rate: ABH-1 RETIRED Division/Squadron: V-1 AND V-3 DIVISIONS Years Aboard: OCT.22,1964 TO APR.06,1968 AND JUNE17,1977 TO SEPT.12,1983 Comments: "A DAY THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY" SAID BY PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT 65 YEARS AGO.I WASN'T EVEN BORN YET BUT 23 YEARS LATER THAT DAY WILL BE REMEMBERED BY US ALL WHO MADE THAT FIRST COMBAT CRUISE TO VIETNAM ABOARD THE U.S.S. CORAL SEA CVA-43. SURE IT STARTED OUT A PEACETIME CRUISE LIKE ALL WESTPAC CRUISES THEN BUT EXACTLY TWO MONTHS LATER ON ANOTHER SUNDAY FEBRUARY 7TH 1965 THE CORAL SEA FLEW ITS FIRST PLANES FROM HER DECK TO ATTACK AN ENEMY JUST AS CUNNING AND FURIOUS AS THE JAPANESE FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME IN ITS HISTORY OF BEING COMMISSIONED, HOW IRONIC THAT COULD BE WHEN YOU LEAVE ON YOUR FIRST CRUISE AND BE THROWN INTO WAR JUST LIKE WHAT HAPPENED 23 YEARS EARLIER AT PEARL HARBOR. VIETNAM LASTED LONGER THAN WORLD WAR TWO DID BUT IT TOO HAVE LEFT ITS LASTING MEMORIES ON US ALL WHO WERE THERE ABOARD OUR SHIPS AT SEA OFF THE COAST OF NORTH AND SOUTH VIETNAM."A DAY THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY". 42 YEARS AGO TODAY AT 0800 WE LEFT NAS ALAMEDA HEADING TO MY FIRST BUT NOT MY LAST WESTPAC CRUISE AND JUST LIKE ALL THE PEARL HARBOR SURVIVORS WE WILL NEVER FORGET IT. HEY TEXX KEEP ON PUSHING MY MAIN MAN. ALL THOSE YEARS ABOARD THE CORAL SEA WERE THE GREATEST YEARS OF MY NAVAL CAREER AND IT'S STILL IS THE GREATEST AIRCRAFT CARRIER AFLOAT EVEN THOUGH IT'S GONE. KEEP ON SAILING AND STROKING THOSE BIRDS ALL YOU AB'S OUT THERE. WALT THE SALT!!!!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 22:43:13 (MST) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: Well today is Pearl Harbor day, Remember those who died that day in 1941. Pray for our troops today. God bless them all. Long live the memory of the USS Coral Sea (CV-43). Happy Holidays from the Buckeye state, Larry
Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 20:46:24 (MST) Name: Rusty Hanes
Years Aboard: 1967-1969 Comments: I am looking for any shipmates that may have served with my father, Colin "Colie" Hanes. He was on 2 West-Pac cruises 67-68 and 68-69. I am looking for anyone who may remember him. He served in div. V-1 during the first cruise and possibly during the second also. I am trying to reunite him with shipmates as well as gather memories relating to his service for a father's day 2007 gift. Any help would be appreciated.
God Bless,
Rusty
Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 18:57:01 (MST) Name: Edward Moroney
Rank/Rate: AK2 Division/Squadron: S-6 Years Aboard: 1977,79 &80 Comments: Made 3 Wespac deployments aboard.
Jimmy are you out there?
Dan? Ric?
Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 15:20:27 (MST) Name: Bill Hoskins
Rank/Rate: SN Division/Squadron: OP (Ops Office) Years Aboard: 60-62 Comments: Worked in the OPS office. Anyone know what happened to CDR (Capt. when assigned to BuWeps) John Thompson or LCDR Frank Sumney?
Monday, December 04, 2006 at 15:31:20 (MST) Name: MIKE RIDDLE......"BEAR"
Rank/Rate: bt3 Division/Squadron: "B" Division, 1-A fife room Years Aboard: 80,81,82,83 Comments: I check on this site every now and then. does any one remember Dan Gerleman?. found him about three years ago, still in Iowa. i ride my bike 2500 miles every May to see him. If any one remembers Mike Magggiacomo, "Majic" he is still in Fla. got me to marry his cousin, left ther 12 years ago. yes mike we are still friends. still trying to find Todd Gooble.."goober", Scott Durffy. And the "other" Scott i pissed all over on in Thailand.......bear
Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 15:24:48 (MST) Name: R.W.Cotton aka R.Willie
Rank/Rate: ms2 Division/Squadron: s-2 / (s-5 for a few months) Years Aboard: 76-79 Comments: I would like to wish all who served on board Coral Sea a Merry Christmas. I will always cherish the standing Christmas Eve standby watches for the guys who wanted to be with there kids. Being in S-2 we always had a special treat for the midwatches. I really miss my good friend PO2 Webster from MAA this time of year. Each year he and I was on board he would stop by the cargo office where the cooks duty section hung out after taps and propose a toast "to shipmate GOD bless us everyone."
Friday, December 01, 2006 at 14:24:22 (MST) Name: James Taylor
Rank/Rate: AD/AN Division/Squadron: VF-83 Years Aboard: 53 med Comments: Just checking to see if's there's anyone around that goes back this far.
Friday, December 01, 2006 at 14:09:14 (MST) Name: Frank Braman
Rank/Rate: SN/AN Division/Squadron: X Division 3M Years Aboard: 76-78 Comments: Hello to any of the 3M/X Division crew!
Friday, December 01, 2006 at 13:48:12 (MST) Name: Herbert W. [ OZZIE ] Osborn
Rank/Rate: ADJ-3 Division/Squadron: VF151 Years Aboard: 64-65 Comments: Iwould like to talk to anyone that was in VF-151 Jan. 64 to Jan. 66 can be reached at 254-863-5271 or 254-205-1126.
Thursday, November 30, 2006 at 22:08:30 (MST) Name: Wesley Wilson
Rank/Rate: ic3 Division/Squadron: E Years Aboard: 86-89 Comments: Just checking in. Still looking for mm3 Mike Mannon
Monday, November 27, 2006 at 20:17:16 (MST) Name: joe griebel
Rank/Rate: am2 Division/Squadron: vf11 Years Aboard: 1956 1957 Comments: still looking buddies from vf 11 on the 1956 cruise joe
Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 21:33:59 (MST) Name: RAY JOHNSON
Rank/Rate: ABE-2 Division/Squadron: V- 2 A/G Years Aboard: 83 - 86 Comments: TO ALL SHIPMATES OF THE USS CORAL SEA, WISHING YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES A HAPPY THANKSGIVING, FROM THE BADGER STATE. ESPECIALLY TO ALL THOSE STILL ON WATCH.
Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 08:22:33 (MST) Name: Mike (Oscar) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BT FN Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974-77 Comments: Happy Thanksgiving to ALL GO NAVY. later, Mike
Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 08:01:29 (MST) Name: Sidney C. Dockery Jr. ( Doc )
Rank/Rate: BTFN Division/Squadron: Boilers Div. 4Baker Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974 - 78 Comments: Happy Thanksgiving to all my Brothers and their families! Let's remember all our troops around the world who can't be home this holiday season! May God Bless them all and their families here at home... From the Heart of Dixie, Doc
Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at 22:42:32 (MST) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: Just wanted to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving and to encourage all to remember the troops who won't be with their families this holiday season. Later form the Buckeye State. Go Bucks!!! Texx
Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at 22:20:50 (MST) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. " Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: Just wanted to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving and to encourage all to remember the troops who won't be with their families during this holiday season. Later for the Buckeye State. Go Bucks!!! Texx
Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at 19:42:43 (MST) Name: Tamie Clark
Comments: When people ask how long my dad, EWC Paul Clark, served in the Navy I always respond with "WE served for 20 years." We all made sacrifices, including countless months without a dad at home, especially during WestPac tours of duty while he was stationed on the USS Coral Sea (1973-1980). Of the first 16 years of my life, the 7 we spent tied to the USS Coral Sea were the happiest. She was considered San Francisco's own, as a result, we considered our family the same. It was so much fun to stumble across this website tonight as I searched the Internet for a special Christmas gift for my dad. You all are doing a great job. Happy Thanksgiving all!
Saturday, November 18, 2006 at 07:47:27 (MST) Name: Chuck Bell
Rank/Rate: PN2 Division/Squadron: X Div Years Aboard: 1962-1963 Comments: Just a quick post to tell of my recent success in finding old shipmates. I was given the website of www.zabasearch.com, and my first two tries I contacted 2 former mates I had not talked to in 40 some years. Hope you find it useful. Oh, one other thing..."PUCKETT CALL HOME"....LOL (LOST HIM ON 63 CRUISE)
Monday, November 13, 2006 at 19:43:51 (MST) Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3 Division/Squadron: Communications Years Aboard: 83-88 Comments: I would like to wish all you Coral Sea shipmates a happy holiday season, and my you and your family's have a safe and happy time. God bless you all, and enjoy this holiday season.
Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 20:17:43 (MST) Name: Sidney C. Dockery Jr. ( Doc )
Rank/Rate: BTFN Division/Squadron: B - Divison 4 Baker Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974 - 78 Comments: Hope all enjoyed a Happy Veterans Day!!! Bless all who have served this great nation!!! God Bless America! Later from the Heart of Dixie...
Doc
Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 13:17:14 (MST) Name: Bob Stapp
Rank/Rate: ABH3 Division/Squadron: V-1 Years Aboard: 3.5 Comments: Just checkin in for 2006. Still looking for the old crew of roof rats that ran from 83-86. Drop me a line to tell me whats up.
Friday, November 10, 2006 at 17:18:09 (MST) Name: Mike (Oscar ) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BT FN Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974-77 Comments: Happy Veterans Day to ALL of my Brothers God Bless
Thursday, November 09, 2006 at 22:00:23 (MST) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. " Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 82 Comments: Well Veterans Day is Saturday. Please remember the men and women serving today who won't be with their families. Thanks to all who have proudly served and are still with us and those who died for our freedom. One of my hobbies is karaoke and the song that I get the biggest response from is "Some Gave All" by Billy Ray Cyrus. I always end it with this line," For those who gave their all and those who are still giving, God bless America." Happy Veterans Day and thanks again to all. Thanks Bob, for all your work on this great site, this is in my opinion by far the best site for any ship I have seen. Later, Texx
Monday, November 06, 2006 at 17:21:17 (MST) Name: Glen G.I. Kelley
Rank/Rate: AZAR - AZ2 Division/Squadron: HC-1 Det 3 Years Aboard: 1979 - 1983 Comments: I hadn't been in the Navy for more than 6 months when I first came aboard with Hc-1 Det 3. Although we wern't always well received by "ships company" guys, we all had a real blast!
I think it was about a 21 day at sea period out of Alameda before getting underway for the 79-80 westpac. Water hours and all. My first WESTPAC and at times thought I would go nuts! 102 straight days at sea is a long time at sea on any ship eh?
For many years I kept a photograph in the newspaper in P Beach Thailand that
depicted some of "us" kissing the beach after jumping out of the "junk" and landing for some well deserved liberty.
The sandwhich line in the Galley helped and I have lots of great memories from the Coral Sea. Would like to hear from any of you anytime. Met a former radioman at VFW Post 11387 in San Diego. We throw a few back now and again in tribute the the USS Coral Sea.
Thanks! AZC (ret.)
Monday, November 06, 2006 at 04:30:34 (MST) Name: Frank Courtright
Comments: You either loved her or hated her. Many times when returning to the ship early in the AM I had refurred to her as the gray goast.
Monday, November 06, 2006 at 04:25:38 (MST) Name: Frank Courtright
Rank/Rate: GMT 3 Division/Squadron: "W" Div. Years Aboard: 11/63 to 01/67 Comments: She was a grand old ship. Always ready to go. She never missed a call, which couldn't be said of a lot of the others back then.
Would like to hear from any of the old "W" Div. people.
Friday, November 03, 2006 at 11:16:39 (MST) Name: Barbara Dorr
Comments: Looking for anyone who knew my brother, Kenneth (Kenny) Dorr who served on the USS Coral Sea around 1965 or 1966. He had a very sad departure from this world in 1990 and would like to speak with anyone who may have served with him.
Thank you.
Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 17:53:56 (MST) Name: Gary Pate
Rank/Rate: RM2 Division/Squadron: Communications Years Aboard: 1985-1988 Comments: Came on board in 1985, and my first sea trial, the Coral Sea hits an Equadorian oiler tanker almost as big as us! That was quite a first time experience as I will never forget running through the hanger bay, and thinking we were hit by a missile! One of my other biggest memories was being in Rota, Spain, which was suppose to be our last port before heading home, and finding out that we were being extended for another month and a half to go back and bomb Libya!
Wednesday, November 01, 2006 at 14:22:49 (MST) Name: stephen mccann
Rank/Rate: bt-3 Division/Squadron: b 1 div Years Aboard: from 1978 to 1981 Comments: i would love to hear from any one who was abourd her while i was on her any snipes out there from able baker charlie one group
Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 15:18:02 (MST) Name: Richard Rielley
Rank/Rate: AE2 Division/Squadron: VA-95 AIMD Years Aboard: !972-73 Comments: Would like to hear from former squadron members, one of our members is very ill and would like to talk to his old shipmates.
Saturday, October 28, 2006 at 13:19:27 (MDT) Name: Steve Stinnett
Rank/Rate: PH-3 Division/Squadron: OP-1 Years Aboard: 1965-1968 Comments: I was the 'Plat' operator (Camerman)on the 07 level. Today I'm a History teacher and all my students are well aware of the History and contributions of the U.S.S. Coral Sea (CVA-43) during the Viet-Nam era.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006 at 17:25:59 (MDT) Name: William " Woody" Woodfin
Rank/Rate: AO3/2 Division/Squadron: VFA-132 Years Aboard: 1985/86 Comments: Just checking!
Monday, October 23, 2006 at 03:48:24 (MDT) Name: Curtis Bunnell
Rank/Rate: HT1 Division/Squadron: R DIV Years Aboard: 1976-1980 Comments: I just found this site and thought I should say "Hi" to anybody that remembers me
Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 20:46:36 (MDT) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. " Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Division Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: Reported to the Coral Sea in December of 78, when she was in the yard in Bremerton. One of the first people I met was ABH1 "Walt the Salt" Hardy. He is one person I will probably never forget as long as I live. I've been out of the Navy now for almost 25 years and still think about things that Walt taught me. Well, Vererans Day is almost upon us, so thanks to all of the old hands and also the new ones who have taken the reins from us to continue the fight for freedom. Later, Texx
Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 19:27:09 (MDT) Name: WALTER HARDY,JR.
Rank/Rate: ABH-I USN RETIRED Division/Squadron: V-1 AND V-3 DIVISIONS Years Aboard: 10-22-64 TO 04-06-68 AND 06-17-77 TO 09-12-83 Comments: WELL GUYS I'M SO SORRY I DIDN'T GET BACK DOWN TO SAND DOG FOR THE REUNION ON OUR SISTER SHIP MIDWAY BUT HOPEFULLY NEXT YEAR I CAN MAKE IT TO LAS VEGAS. WELL SINCE TODAY IS MY FORTY-SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF GOING ABOARD THE CORAL SEA BACK WHEN I WAS A BOOT CAMPER SALT BUT THINK BACK WHEN YOU GUYS WENT ABOARD FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME AND IT WAS A LITTLE OVERWHELMING TO SAY THE LEAST BUT THOSE GUYS MESSED WITH YOU UNTIL YOU GOT THE PROGRAM DOWN PAT AND SHOWED YOU THE WAY TO BE A SALTY SEA DOG. I'M STILL HOPING THEY FIND IT IN THEIR HEARTS TO MAKE ANOTHER AIRCRAFT CARRIER NAMED CORAL SEA BEFORE I'M GONE JUST SO I CAN WALK ABOARD HER ONCE AGAIN.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at 12:06:28 (MDT) Name: Patrick Salazar "Sal"
Rank/Rate: btfn Division/Squadron: b-1 Years Aboard: 77-80 Comments: Spent time in 1 Able and 1 Charlie firerooms with Wesley Pearce, Michael "Son" Gray, Walter "Ski" Kliniewski, Micah, Jonesy, Smitty, etc.
Went UA a few times and 27 days in red line brig...but really enjoyed working in the pit with the other snipes. Got "promoted" to the oil shack once; my running buddy threw a bag of pot out of the porthole in the smokewatch tower...landed on the flight deck!!! Got out of that one, but wanted back in the pit. Good ol' Breezy tried to talk me out of it, but Smitty gladly took me back.
Chow was great after Dunleavy took command in '79. But that Capt. Arthur was the best damn skipper...and loyal to his enlisted: saved my ass and my career.
Thanks all. Write. Sal.
Monday, October 16, 2006 at 14:25:50 (MDT) Name: Jack Noble
Rank/Rate: YN3 Division/Squadron: X Years Aboard: 82-64 Comments: I'm the guy who is always looking for info on"Puckett" from VAH-2 who jumped ship between Pearl and Sydney during the 63 WESTPAC cruise. Made the reunion of Coral Sea Association earlier this month in San Diego and met three of his shipmates - they said he was usually in trouble of some sort, said he would never go back to the brig. They were right because he overpowered an MAA on the way to his compartment to get his gear and was never seen again. His shipmates think some of his buddies hid him out until we reached Sydney and he's alive and well down there.
Monday, October 16, 2006 at 13:46:33 (MDT) Name: Roger Chambers
Rank/Rate: AO3 Division/Squadron: HS-17 Years Aboard: 1985-1988 Comments: Looking through the website brought back alot of memories.Just thought that I would drop a line or two to see if any HS-17 guys monitor the website. Saw David Butler on back in 2001.Hey Dave!
Monday, October 16, 2006 at 13:13:31 (MDT) Name: David Gray
Rank/Rate: BM-3 Division/Squadron: 1st Years Aboard: 81/84 Comments: Last week I got the chance to go aboard the USS Chafee which was moored at pier 36 in SF during the fleet week 06. The escorts for our tour where two ladies who had their stuff together and I would like to say that the professionalism and Navy pride that I saw onboard the USS Coral Sea when I was aboard her is alive and well today. Both of these E-5's had there ESWS pins and numerous decorations. I was amazed at the cleanliness of the ship and the way the crew looked. Going on the bridge brought back memories of the Hurricane we encountered leaving Hawaii in 83 and remembering the escort destroyers taking 38 degree rolls and the fear in the voices of the OOD when they contacted the Coral Sea. Haze Grey and underway is the only way to be for me. D.
Monday, October 16, 2006 at 02:56:11 (MDT) Name: John Ciszewski
Rank/Rate: AK3 Division/Squadron: S1 Years Aboard: 1.5 Comments: In additions to my comments I have just made I'd also like to say hello my friends from our rock band "Grand Mal Seziure" which played a few unforgetable gigs courtesy of the USS Coral Sea while on World Cruise 83 (rockin in France, Italy, Philipines), the flight deck during stand downs and band practice in the weather baloon launching station. It's been so many years that I can't even remember everyones names but I do still have the photograghs. Is anyone a rock star yet?
Monday, October 16, 2006 at 02:35:37 (MDT) Name: John Ciszewski
Rank/Rate: AK3 Division/Squadron: S1 Years Aboard: 1.5 Comments: In additions to my comments I have just made I'd also like to say hello my friends from our rock band "Grand Mal Seziure" which played a few unforgetable gigs courtesy of the USS Coral Sea while on World Cruise 83 (rockin in France, Italy, Philipines), the flight deck during stand downs and band practice in the weather baloon launching station. It's been so many years that I can't even remember everyones names but I do still have the photograghs. Is anyone a rock star yet?
Monday, October 16, 2006 at 02:18:24 (MDT) Name: John Ciszewski
Rank/Rate: AK3 Division/Squadron: S1 division & rehab 1983/84 Years Aboard: 1.5 Comments: Even though I was on this ship for a short time and not in a prestigeous position, my experience on this fine ship has had a profound impact on my life and many precious memories. This web sight surely conjures up some emotion on my adventures while on board the noble Coral Sea CV-43. Thank you for keeping this history!
Tuesday, October 10, 2006 at 22:43:26 (MDT) Name: Larry Elliott Jr. " Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN Division/Squadron: V-1 Years Aboard: 1978- 1982 Comments: R. Willie I agree. There were a few times the food kinda sucked (powdered eggs), but for the most part it was pretty darn good, especially the bread y'all used to bake when we were at sea. Those nights when they did the steak and lobster tails were great.
Sunday, October 08, 2006 at 21:47:45 (MDT) Name: R.W.Cotton aka R.Willie
Rank/Rate: ms2 Division/Squadron: s-2 / (s-5 for a few months) Years Aboard: 76-79 Comments: It amazes me the most well fed navy in all of maritime history. Even years later they whine and complain. God help us as a nation.
Friday, October 06, 2006 at 15:20:05 (MDT) Name: Dave "Big Ben" Bolt
Rank/Rate: AO3 Division/Squadron: GM Years Aboard: 2 Comments: Great ship, lousy food. Guided Missile Div had outstanding officers and a
really great chief (Chief Foote). I wish I could do it again, only this time I
would do it right. I would appreciate hearing from any of you guys.
Monday, October 02, 2006 at 17:27:06 (MDT) Name: Gary M. Kesler
Rank/Rate: AMS 2 Division/Squadron: VA-22 Years Aboard: 1971-1972 Comments: Looking for 71-71 cruise book. I an not sure even if they made one for that west-pac cruise, any info would be appreciated.Like to hear from any of my squardron mates. God be with you. Gary Kesler (OHIO)
Sunday, October 01, 2006 at 13:59:15 (MDT) Name: Bill "Mouse" Davis
Rank/Rate: AO3 Division/Squadron: G.M. Years Aboard: 68-71 Comments: Greetings Shipmates; especially all of you AO's who served in GM division. I've been reconnnecting with many of those I served with and to that end have created a Blog for my GM Division shipmates and anyone else interested. You can find it at http://cva43gmdiv.blogspot.com . It's called "Where The Hell Is That Rack Of Sidewinders?" please visit and leave your comments and suggestions. I've only just started it so there isn't much there yet but I'm hopefull it will grow. I served in GM from 68 until 71 but the site is for anyone who served in that division or served with us. If you want to be a member shoot me an e-mail.
Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 16:24:15 (MDT) Name: Tim Quimby
Rank/Rate: ETN2 Division/Squadron: OE Years Aboard: 66-69 Comments: Looking for some old shipmates. Any one have any info on Ted Yamada, Dave Sturgell, Frank Romero all of OE? And anyone else that I have forgotten about. As tiome goes so does the braincells and memory!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 20:12:22 (MDT) Name: Bob Davis
Rank/Rate: PR3 Division/Squadron: VAQ 135 Det 3 Years Aboard: 72 and 73 Comments: Watched the Mighty "O" be sunk for a reef tonight. Mixed emotions. The video shown was not all the Oriskany's own. They used the USS Coral Sea's video of Air Wing 15... NL... It was a short scene early in the documentary and depicted some A-4's and others. It was a film that was well done and a fitting tribute. It is, of course, a sorrowful ending to a great ship. At the very least she is a monument to be touched, unlike our San Francisco's Own the USS Coral Sea. We hope to learn from our past mistakes. God Bless the Crew and Spirit of the Coral Maru.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 10:36:31 (MDT) Name: Tom Goodwin
Rank/Rate: ABH3 Division/Squadron: V-1 Years Aboard: 83-86 Comments: Just checking in for 2006. Looking for some of my yellow & blue shirt brothers from the good old days!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 23:51:10 (MDT) Name: Sidney C Dockery Jr. ( Doc )
Rank/Rate: BTFN Division/Squadron: Boilers / 4 Baker Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974 - 78 Comments: Three and a wake-up until California Here We Come! Heading to Fresno first for a day then into Frisco on Sunday. Then a couple of days on the coast and Twenty-Nine Palms. From there to Diego on Thursday for Paul Bernardy's retirement on the Midway! Oscar, Deb, Don, Sandra, Doc and Paula attending the USS Coral Sea Association reunion in San Diego to finish out the week-end! This is my 4th Annual Reunion in a row and they get better every year! Salts from 1947 Commissioning on up... What an experience to meet so many from different era's of the Coral Sea! Would love to see some new Snipes, we are greatly out numbered and need some support! Can't wait to tour our sister the USS Miday and hopefully get down to 4 Baker again!!! The excitement builds and I can't believe it's reunion time again! Come on all you boot camps give it a try!!!
Later from the Heart of Dixie, Doc
Monday, September 25, 2006 at 13:47:43 (MDT) Name: Ted Walkwe
Rank/Rate: E-1 Division/Squadron: Dental Years Aboard: 1987 Comments: I am looking to connect with my shipmates from the Dental Unit durng the time I was aboard
Friday, September 22, 2006 at 20:09:35 (MDT) Name: Mike (Oscar ) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BTFN Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom Years Aboard: 1974-77 Comments: Just a week till we leave for Fresno California. Spending a week traveling the coast with 2 other couples(The BEST of FRIENDS) before ending up in San Diego on Thursday, celebrating another great friend Retiring from the U.S.Navy on the USS Midway, then on to the Town and Country Resort to start the 28th Annual National USS Coral Sea CVA-43 Reunion. SEE YOU THERE!!! GOOD TIMES !!! Later , Oscar
Friday, September 22, 2006 at 13:49:00 (MDT) Name: Ken Schmitz
Rank/Rate: ME 3 Division/Squadron: "R" Division Years Aboard: '55 to 57 Comments: Just checking back in. Looks like Ray Meketa and Lou Casale are about the only two straight-deck carrier shipmates left out there. Guys, I have had fun looking up a bunch of old "R" division sailors off the Coral Sea before "57. First of August several of us met up in Canandaigua, NY for a little get together, and what a great time that was. Think I have located 38 or 39 old sailors, all of them alot older, most with gray or no hair, a little thicker through the belt area, and all just as crazy as ever.
Friday, September 22, 2006 at 07:46:53 (MDT) Name: dennis welch
Rank/Rate: e-3 Division/Squadron: vfp-63 Comments: hey any of you guys out ther 79-83 remember charlie welch off the hangar deck or his little brother tom welch off the flight deck and would like to know where there at e-mail me i'm the other brother off the independance
Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 07:22:13 (MDT) Name: Jim Shinault
Rank/Rate: E-4 Division/Squadron: VF-151 Years Aboard: 67-68 Comments: Ray Sandoval, Ronnie Jones, Jim Cronin,Frank Morales,Tommie Harden
Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 08:43:34 (MDT) Name: Ted Mc Manus
Rank/Rate: CWO4 Division/Squadron: Photo Officer (OP) Years Aboard: 66 - 67 Comments: In 1950 I was a photographer attached to VC-5 and spent some time aboard the Coral Sea. Sixteen years later I was ordered to the CS as the photo officer. Unfortunately I don't have any photos from the 50's but I do have a large number of interesting photos from the "66 & 67" Westpac deployments. Incidently, the Coral Sea was the last carrier to deploy with prop driven aircraft which are included in the photos.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at 10:26:10 (MDT) Name: Ray Meketa