01-23-08 Brett Cook
Heard Of Us: Father - Bill Cook
City Now: Roswell, GA 30075
How would you rate us: Superb

Although while growing up my dad (Bill Cook) spoke little of his experiences in the Navy, the website gives me a glimpse of the young man my dad was and some of the incredible experiences he had before I was born. I know the ship and his time in the Navy is a great source of pride for him. Thank you for sharing his and others' experiences.

Editor's Note: Brett is just trying to make his old dad look like I was modest about my Navy days. I know he has surely not forgotten how, in spite of the groans from many in attendance, I used to haul out all of my Tidewater slides at every family reunion and get together. In later years, I built this website - still showing off those 35 mm photos, along with those of many of my shipmates.

01-11-08 Ward A. Bessette Jr. - ward2b@comcast.net
Tour: 26 year career - AD-31/CGN-9/USNS Aeolus/USS AMERICA
City Now: Jacksonville FL
How would you rate us: Superb

On TIDEWATER 64/65 at R-3 DIV. as an ICFN in Gyro shop. Converted to Electronics Technician in 1969. Married to a British subject who chose to become an American citizen by choice 1976. Retired from active service in 1989. Working as a manager at LOWES HOME IMPROVEMENT.

My father was aboard your ship in the early fifties and I wondered if you might know of anyone still living that may have known him and would be interested in helping me learn more about him and his time aboard.

His name was Gus Piccione. He passed away three years ago on the eve of the ND Navy Game which we attended regularly while I was growing up.

Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you.

11-03-07 Vince Partridge - vpart@optonline.net
HeardOfUs: Google
Tour: 56-58 Tidewater AD 31
City Now: Westport CT
How would you rate us: Superb

10-04-07 Jeffrey Griffeth - vbjeffro76@hotmail.com
HeardOfUs: through a Google search
Tour: USMC 94-98, MCAS Beaufort SC
City Now: VA Beach VA
How would you rate us: Excellent

I am glad to find you guys. I was thinking of something I could put together for my dad to give him this year for Christmas. I remembered he served aboard the Tidewater from I believe 66-68. His rate was Boatswain's Mate. I was trying to reunite hm with some of his old shipmates he served with. If anyone was aboard during the same time and may have known a Lloyd or Billy Griffeth, feel free to contact me.

As a Marine Vet, I know that some of the best people I met in my life were the people I served with, and I know he was quite proud of being a Tidewater sailor. Just this past weekend he was showing me some of the things he still had from when he was in, a few pictures of the ship and even an old Zippo tape measure with the USS Tidewater in its original packaging.

To the Tidewater Vets, thank you for being a big part of my dad's life, to every Vet out there, Thank You for your service to our great nation. Take Care and God Speed.
Jeff Griffeth - CPL/USMC 94-98

10-01-07 Ted Yudain - Tyatty@aol.com
HeardOfUs: Surfing
Tour: 6yrs USNR, USS Tidewater '69-decomm.
City Now: Stamford CT
How would you rate us: Superb

First (and only ship) right out of Bainbridge A-school, an RM striker. Ended active RM3 when Tidewater decommissioned. Greatest experience. Great memories of DS piers, San Juan during Operation Springboard, St. Thomas, Capt's last cruise (Bermuda - where someone left the bottom of the gig on a reef...), Charleston... Great to find shipmates.

08-21-07 Tim O'Donnell - tto21@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: my father was on the USS Tidewater
Tour: I beleive he served from 1959-1962
City Now: Chicago IL
How would you rate us: Superb

I am looking to get in touch with people that would have served with my father on the Tidwater from 1959-1962

07-10-07 Glenn Miller - Glenn.Miller1@att.net

Boy, does the time fly by when you are having fun. Since I retired, we have been traveling this great country by RV. We spent 4 months in Alaska. Then the NortWest for a while. We have been looking up old shipmates along the way. Sure would love to hear from some engineroom crew - 1960 thru 1964. We hope to make the next reunion in Branson. Keep up the great work.

06-14-07 Jack Hoenig - cjhoenig@frontiernet.net
HeardOfUs: web search
Tour: 1960 to 1963
City Now: Hopewell Jct NY
How would you rate us: Superb

Attended Torpedo Class A School in Key West from June 1960 until Sept 1960. Served on the USS Stormes, DD780, USS Rich, DDE 820, and USS Tidewater AD 31. I was a TM3 on the Tidewater from late 1962 until I was discharged early just before the Med cruise in August 1963.

05-24-07 George E. Robertson - redrob946@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: VFW Magazine
Tour: 1959-1969. BOOT CAMP-RM-A SCHOOL 1959-60. BEACHMASTER UNIT TWO, LITTLE CREEK VA. 1960-63. USS TIDEWATER 1964-66. NAVCOMSTA SFRAN(T) MARE ISLAND CA. 1966-68. USS EDSON DD-946. 1968-69.
City Now: Lawson, Mo, 64062
How would you rate us: Superb

I had some real good times and some bad times.Just can't remember the bad times so well lately! I would like to hear from shipmates. I was a Radio Man 2nd Class and stood watches in the radio shack.

05-09-07 LB Vice - vicemd@vvm.com

Am amazed at this site. I have been so moved by all the sign ins. Shipmates, this means so much to not only us but to our families, especially those families whose fathers, sons, and brothers have gone to be with the Father. Please take a moment to respond to these family members seeking even a small acknowledgement from a brother-shipmate. Even if we didn't know their sailor, we share the same heart & spirit-let em know something! Still the most fantastic site ever.

05-03-07 Thomas C. Callahan Sr. - calchrtm1220@hotmail.com
HeardOfUs: Internet
Tour: one year USS Tidewater
City Now: White River Junction VT
How would your rate us: Absolutely GREAT

In 1st Division - yeah - deck hand. Then a tour as a mess cook - worked alot down in reefers. My 1st Class PO BM Lyons 2nd Class PO BM. Moore Marty 3rd Class PO BM was my mentor. He watched out for me. I was just 17 yrs old. He taught me alot. Today I live in the green mountain state of Vermont. I am photo journalist freelance photographer.
Made Med Cruises 1963 and 1964 Toulon Barcelonia Caples. Got out in 1964 with medical discharge. Out two years then joined Army.

04-18-07 Roger Nash - rpnash@sbcglobal.net
HeardOfUs: Member
Tour: 1956-58 on Tidewater
City Now: Wauwatosa, WI
How would your rate us: Superb

Short note to let everyone in our organization know that my USS Tidewater Hat that was lost in Destin, Florida this past month was returned to me by mail today on 04-18-07. There is a long story that goes like this:

Got a call from Bill Cook about a week ago asking me if I had lost my reunion hat and I answered yes that I had but didn't know where on our recent 6 week trip to Florida. Thank goodness that he knew that I had spent a week in Destin, Florida on our way down to see my brother in Boca Raton and Judy's brother in Jacksonville Beach. The fellow that found my hat turned it in to the security department in the shopping center in Destin Florida where I had lost it. The security department sent the hat back to him (Richard Jeric - who is the man that found my hat in the Silver Sands Outlet Mall parking lot in Destin, Florida).

Richard lives in Michigan, he felt so bad about someone losing this brand new USS Tidewater hat that he contacted a friend of his Kurt Daume EMCM(SS) US Navy Retired who looked our website up on the internet and contacted Bill. Bill sent me Kurt's e-mail with Richard's address and phone number and I contacted Richard and in 3 days time I have my hat back.

This is the hat that I dedicated to the memory of Fred Smith who passed away last year. I think Fred's spirit had something to do with finding that hat for me because everyone I talk to says they can't believe that I got it back.

We are back in Wisconsin and having a warm spell of 35 degrees. Spring should get here sometime next month.

04-07-07 Russell Masten - dart_hog@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: Just happened to type in USS Tidewater
Tour: Oct 64-Aug68 USS Tidewater AD31 from Jan 65 - Aug 68 R2 Div
Rating: Superb

I spent my whole tour on the Tidewater. Made two Med cruises with her, one yard trip to Baltimore, Shakedown to Gitmo. Made the trip to Crete and one trip to Porto Rico. Was in R2 division as a MM in repair shop under MM1 George Uhles.

Went from the Navy into plumbing until 1997 when I retired from civil service. Then I worked for Lowes for three years left there in 2001 and went to work for the city of Norfolk as a codes inspector. I still live in Virginia Beach.

03-18-07 Susan Wallace - susan.wallace07@comcast.net
HeardOfUs: engine search
Tour: USS Forrest Royal DD872 1963-1966 (my father)
How would you rate us: Superb

I am looking for several shipmates of my father's when he was on the USS Forrest Royal DD872 between 1963-1966. My Father David Montgomery "Monty" referred to his close friend as Norman T. Grant "Wilbur".

If anyone knows where this person can be located please let me know or if you are this person please contact me asap at susan.wallace07@comcast.net or susan.wallace@bmcjax.com. Thanks!

02-25-07 Robert Hillenbach - stockusa@sbcglobal.net
HeardOfUs: surfing
Tour: 66-68 USS Tidewater ad-31 (BM3)
How would you rate us: Superb

I served aboard the Tidewater from 1966 until 1968. I had an emergency spleenectomy operation on our way to med cruise and was flown off to Bermuda at which time I went back to surgery there for collapsed lungs!! i went on to serve aboard the Walwoeth County in the Gator Navy until i was discharged in 1969. I would like to hear from anyone who served on the Tidewater during that time.

02-23-07 Thomas Bailey, LTjg (USN-RET) - drbailey0799@comcast.net
HeardOfUs: Internet Search
Tour: 1976-1995, various ships
City Now: Odenton, MD 21113
How would you rate us: Superb

Am trying to locate anyone who may have served on the Tidewater in 1956 - my father, Tom Bailey was a SH3 and a barber on the Tidewater. His 70th birthday is upcoming and I wanted to share any thoughts from a shipmate who may remember him. Thank you.

02-07-07 Paula J. Anderson - pande61760@aol.com
HeardOfUs: father
Tour: father was on ship during korean war
City Now: Superior WI 54880
How would you rate us: Excellent

I typed in the name of the ship my dad was on in the Mediterranean during the time of the Korean War and was surprised and delighted that there was an actual website. I typed his name, Ronald Paul Anderson, in the search engine hoping that there would be a database of all that served on this ship. But didn't turn up anything. He has been deceased since 1982, but I sure would love it if anyone who remembered, or spent time with him contacted me. I can't remember what his duty, rank or dates spent on the ship were. But hopefully someone will remember him.

12-30-06 Anita J. (Muschamp) Vice - avice15@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: L.B. Vice
City Now: Lisbon Falls ME
How would you rate us: Superb

This is the first time I've been on this site. I'm not finished exploring, researching etc. My father William G. Muschamp served on this destroyer prior to 1964. If you have any stories you would like to share I would be grateful! My father passed away in 1989. Thank-you.

P.S. Father had a photo album of his life and friends while enlisted. In those pictures he was always smiling, and was always very proud to serve the country that he loved! CSC(CPO) William G. Muschamp

12-14-07 Al Lakis - starrion1@earthlink.net
Tour: 1944-1946 on the USS Tidewater
How would you rate us: Superb

I'm posting here on behalf of my Dad (Al Lakis). We have been reminiscing a bit as of late about his times in the Navy. When he mentioned the ship he served on, I thought I would search the net to see where it may lead information and contact-wise as a Christmas gift for him. He was surprised to discover that this past year's reunion was fairly close to him. The two guys he remembers most were named Tony Ridder and Pete Purvis (not positive on the spellings) but if those names help bring up some old memories along with my Dad's, I look forward to hearing from you. My dad worked in the radio room apparently 4 hours on and 4 hours off without much sleep much of his time on board. Looking to track done any additional pictures of the crew and ship from that time period beyond what is on this web site as well as a roster of the crew names he would have served with. Appreciate your help...

12-10-07 Charles Marmon - cdmarm@earthlink.net
Tour: 56 thru 64 AD31 57 to 59 Enterprise 61 to 64
City Now: Cresson TX
How would you rate us: Excellent

12-10-06 Steve Bradshaw, OMC, USN (Ret) - sbradshaw@computercow.com
HeardOfUs: I am a Life Member
Tour: USN - '62-'83
How would you rate us: Superb

ATTENTION OM's and IM's. I see a number of Opticalmen and Instrumentmen on the roster and thought you would like to know about the OM-IM Association for those of you not already members. It is a free membership and a reunion is planned in Las Vegas April 23-25 2007. For more info go to http://www.om-im.org or email me at sbradshaw@computercow.com. I would particularly like to get an email address for Life Members RB Tant and Algie Watts as there is no address for them in the roster.
Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and an outstanding New Year!

12-07-06 Sam Giglio - gigliosm@aol.com
HeardOfUs: just surfing the web for a us navy vet hat
Tour: 1956-1960 USS Tidewater AD31
City Now: East Haven CT
How would you reate us: Superb

I am so excited about this group of Tidewater Vets. I know I want to become part of this group. I will be sending for the information so that I can join my former shipmates. I still cannot believe I found you guys.

I was a pipefitter in the welding shop. We even slept in that shop. How great was that?

Thank you again and have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

12-06-06 LB Vice - vicemd@vvm.com
HeardOfUs: google search
Tour: 8+ yrs Navy 3 years Tidewater (Military Retired)
City Now: Waco TX area
How would you rate us: Superb

I was a DT2 in D division '62-65. Went to SubBase NLON after, made DT1, left Navy at end of enlistment. We have 3 kids, 6 grandkids & 1 great grandson. Wife & I graduated from Oklahoma University & I took commission to do internship at Walter Reed Med. Ctr. Eventually retired after last tour at Silas Hays Hospital at Ft Ord, CA. Since have retired from Health Dept. Waco. Still volunteer there.

Many good memories of Tide and crew:

• 8500 excuses why tin can sailors lost dentures (new) over the side
• CAPT Firestone putting his half gnawed licorice root on the instrument table while working on patients
• Jack Henderson's New Years Eve Bash in the dental clinic
• loss of after steering returning into Norfolk
• Gallopin' dominoes on blankets to muffle sound of dice on deck & against bulkhead
• seeing my first "sea bat" (it only took one)
• Tin can sailors rolling on decks doubled up in laughter watchin us perform drills for gettin under way
• finding out why you don't put your fingers inside ammo crates as you tipped them off of elevator down onto deck
• perpetual cribbage/acie deucie tournaments
• rollin around on wet Mike boat deck after shipmate "losing" his Berra Peroni & "hepatitis" sandwich
• smokers and talent contests on the mess decks
• shippin over chow
• mid rats
• seeing Roadrunners (hi-speed Campfire Girls) on way to bingo at NATO base

Would be great to hear from other crew such as Jerry Bob Williams, Nick Nicholson, Chief L.G. Tucker, Docs, "Pappy" CS1, everyone else. Thanks for a glimpse back-hope to see you all one day.

12-04-06 Patrick F. Bogan - pbogan@friendsresearch.org
HeardOfUS: surfing net
Tour: 1961-1965 Norfolk NOB
City Now: Easton MD
How would you rate us: Superb

I am searching for Lt. Gordon Groff, DDS USN Ret. I attended his retirement ceremony about 1993 and have lost contact with him. If you know of his whereabouts, please notify me. He was married and ahd two daughters and was living in Virginia Beach.

11-30-06 Fred Luss - fredluss@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: Surfing
Tour: Tidewater, 1969-1970
City Now: Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
How would you rate us: Superb

Worked in the Disbursing Office with Chief Norville, Chief Reesman, LTJG Gene Shuping, DK2 Lew Wysong, and DK3 Tim McCarthy.

Three trips included San Juan, Puerto Rico (where shipmate Humphries died in a drive-by shooting), Charleston, and Bermuda.

Have lots of fond memories of many days/nights spent with shipmates in and around Norfolk's D & S Piers, Virginia Beach, Oceanview, as well as visits to their homes in other states.

Recently retired from DaimlerChrysler Corporation after 34 years, as VP for the U.S. finance company and CEO/President of their subsidiary finance companies in Mexico.

Now spend most of my time in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida and summers on the southern coast of Maine, near Kennebunkport.

You are to be commended for putting together a magnificent website dedicated to the people that served so well on the Tidewater. I do have pictures to share - just let me know where to send them.

11-14-06 Frank Martin - amnfm69@earthlink.net
HeardOfUs: surfing
Tour: 1965-1969/1968-1969
City Now: Mary Esther, FL
How would you rate us: Superb

Spent my last fourteen months on the Tidewater and am looking for Thomas Sayles, Thomas Wilson, Richard Fox, Richard Brown, Richard White, Lou O'Donnel, Fred Meeks, Chris Lutz, Pigmy and Elephant. If anyone knows their whereabouts, please, contact me. Great times on a great ship.

11-17-06 Bill McCalla - rmccall@columbus.rr.com
HeardOfUs: surfing
Tour: 1966-1970 U.S.S. Tidewater '68-'70
City Now: Lancaster, Ohio
How would you rate us: Superb

Enjoyed my tour aboard the Tidewater. An electrician's mate served both in E division and repair division (motor rewind shop) was on both Carribean and Med cruises.

10-14-06 Ronald W. Terwilliger - santaman@enter.net
HeardOfUs: Looked on web
City Now: Emmaus PA
How would you rate us: Superb

I served in the Reserves. I spent 2 years on active duty. Served on the Tidewater, the USS Wright and the Uss Seriria. I do not remember the dates and have lost all my paperwork, I left active service in I entered active duty in 1968 and left active service in 1960.

10-02-06 Jack Hendricks - jhend5875@aol.com
Tour: 1951-1955 USS Tidewater
City Now: Avon IN
How would you rate us: Superb

I served on the Tidewater in the Disbursing Office. I was able to spend my entire four years on the Tidewater. Great experience.

10-02-06 Jim Mardis - mijm1@bellsouth.net
HeardOfUs: on Tidewater for two weeks
Tour: reserves eight years
City Now: Columbus GA
How would you rate us: Superb

I was on the Tidewater in the summer of 1953 or 1954. I worked in the logroom for 2 weeks. The officers tried to get me to stay for 2 years, but I was in college. This was a great 2 weeks in my life. The ship was in port at Norfolk VA. They were having all the Navies of the world while I was there. It was a hurricane out at sea and some of the smaller ships broke loose. We went out to sea and fired the big weapons on the ship.

09-18-06 Darlene Berry - darberry@vci.net
HeardOfUs: Surfing
Tour: 1965-1968 USS Tidewater AD31
How would you rate us: Superb

My name is Darlene Berry. I'm looking for shipmates of my dad's (Jerry Alsbrooks). He passed away June '06. He has three grandsons that would love to hear stories from his navy buddies or see some pictures we haven't seen before. Would love to hear from you.

09-15-06 Sandra Ellis - burgie388@peoplepc.com
HeardOfUs: dad was on the ship/browising the web
Tour: USS Tidewater l948 - l952
City Now: Muskego WI
How would you rate us: Excellent

My dad Robert Arthur "Burgie" Burgermeister served on the Tidewater from l948-l952 or so. Does anyone remember him or have stories to share?

09-09-06 Daniel H. Vogel - ggma70@comcast.net

Just remembered a couple other things the Infamous Tidewater did, When we got back from the Ghost of the Carolina Coast shake down cruise we anchored in Charleston Harbor and the Captain put out both anchors. When they were raised to go back to the docks they were tied in a knot. Someone on the bridge over Charlston harbor took our picture and it appeared on the front page of the Charleston paper. I can't remember the caption but it was great.

09-05-06 Rich Alswanger - RALSWANGER@BLOOMBERG.NET
HeardOfUs: looking at Inet
How would you rate us: Superb

I know two sailors who are living in CT and were on the ship at different times - Joe Bonfiglio - he was on board during sea trials - and Fred Sterc - he was on board when she ran into another ship and also on board when she ran a ground in NY, I think during the 50's. These guys are not much for the Internet but I will give them your web page. Thanks

09-01-06 Brian Shea - bfshea@hotmail.com
HeardOfUs: Plaque at Restaurant
Tour: MSC Officer, USNR - 1995-2004
City Now: Peabody MA
How would you rate us: Superb

I found this site after finding what appears to be one of the ship's plaques on a wall in a restaurant in Danvers MA (Sylvan Street Grill). Sure enough, found your site and the really fine "color" version on the website. Anyhow, it's great to see the pictures and the stories -- keep 'em coming!

08-28-06 Daniel H. Vogel - ggma70@comcast.net
HeardOfUs: Chief Warman from Legion Magazine ad
Tour: 1951 - 1954 USS Tidewater AD - 31
City Now: Punta Gorda, FL
How would you rate us: Superb

I helped put the Tidewater back in Commission in Charlston,S.C. in 1951. I supervised work in both machine shops and the Optical and Instrument repair shop till the Chief came aboard.

My wife and I started an Engineering and Manufacturing Business in Livonia, Michigan and sold it in 1984 then we retired to where we presently live in FL. I was very pleasantly surprised to find out about this Association. I have only met one person who was aboard the Tidewater in 52 years.

Does anyone remember when we got lost on our first shake down Cruise and the headlines in the Charlston paper called the Tidewater ( The Ghost of the Carolina Coast)
Or when we ran aground in front of the Statue of Liberty when we went to Bayonne, N. J. to load ammo.

I did some of the welding on our side after we were hit in the Firth of Clyde by the Coates.
Anyone remember how far we rolled when we turned around to take a destroyer in tow on the way back from Europe from our north Atlantic NATO Cruise.

Just some memories I have had. I sure would like to find Bob Ohmes and Richard Bennett. Thanks Guys

08-10-06 Don Redman - alicemacred@juno.com
HeardOfUs: Google Search
Tour: 1951-1954 USS Coates
City Now: Knoxville TN
How would you rate us: Excellent

In reference to the collision at sea off the coast of Ediburgh between the USS Tidewater and the USS Coates - that was during a NATO exercise. I was on the helm of the USS Coates when the Gyro compass went out. I yelled at the Captain, "Gyro's out!" Before we could do anything, we went right into the Tidewater.

They put us up in Edinburgh and gave us 7 days leave while repairs were made. During time in drydock, we took a bus to Dumfermline, Scotland. We stopped in a restaurant and the waitresses there said, "We're glad to see you!" We were the first US sailors they'd seen since WWII. They had a special meal for us, they brought out chicken wings that they'd used their ration stamps to buy, and we told them it was the best meal we'd ever had. We didn't tell them we'd been eating steak onboard ship.

07-31-06 Edward Bocook
HeardOfUs: By accident
Tour: Feb 1963 Feb 1965
City Now: Grayson KY
How would you rate us: Excellent

After leaving the Navy, I worked construction work I retired last year as an ironworker. I am married, have 5 children - one in Air force, one in the Navy. I worked in 1st Division

I was in the Navy for four years and my first year was at Bainbridge, Md after I got out of boot camp at Great Lakes. Went on board the Tidewater January 2, 1961 and we went to Ft. Lauderdale, Fl the following day. My first cruise was in a storm the first night at sea. Good way to get broke in at sea. After being on deck for about four months I had the opportunity to go into the dental department and I was in D Division for the rest of my time on board. The best time of my life was when I served on the Tidewater. Dr. Echols became full Commander and was in charge of the dept. at that time. I was his technicion for all the time I was aboard the ship. I was originally from LaPorte, Indiana and also on board with us was a Dental Dr. from LaPorte also. His name was Dr. Paul Lynch. It was great to serve with someone from the same home town. Since then I lived in LaPorte most all the time and retired from Stelrema Corp in Knox, Indiana after 38 years there. I now live in Jonesville, Michigan.

The U.S.S. Tidewater was my first ship out of bootcamp(Chicago)Pier 23.Norfolk, Va. .A great sign was on a lawn saying Sailors & dogs stay off the grass.

A couple of years later, I asked the captain if he could get my brother on board from class a school..communications IC man.He did & when I got out 2 years later my brother (Dave) Patton was still on there.

When we switched side of the pier, all the coffee grounds came up to the top..LMAO
It was the great ship..I was a SFP..We could weld anything but the crack of dawn & a crack in a broken heart..

Smooth sailing

05-31-06 Edgar J. Lawrence - eddlawjazz@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: suffing the net
Tour: USN 1946 to 1953 - USS TIDEWATER 49 TO 53
City Now: Spring Hill FL
How would you rate us: Absolutely GREAT

I reported aboard the Tidewater in 1949 or 1950.The ship was a part of Sub Group Three at the Charleston Navy Yard.Discharged in January 1953. I am trying to make contact with any member of Sub Group Three who played basketball on the U S Navy Zippers Basketball team. They were a great group of men and I would like to hear from anyone. Would like to attend the 2006 Reunion.

05-29-06 Donald Dyne - ddyne@mchsi.com
HeardOfUs: website
Tour: 1944-1946, 1951-1952 USS Tidewater 8/51-12/52
City Now: Kelseyville CA
How would you rate us: Superb

I served during WWII as an ETM2 and was called back during the Korean War. I served as an ET1 aboard the Tidewater from 8/51 to 12/52.

05-29-06 BMSN Jim Tooley - molitorman@msn.com
HeardOfUs: Looking for information on Navy buddies
Tour: 6 years
City Now: Greene, NY, 13778
Rating: Superb

I had the pleasure of serving on board the Tidewater during 1965 - 1970, made a few Med trips and other cruises. Sometimes I can close my eyes and still see the ocean off the fantail and remember talking over home life to my shipmates, times were good then. I still spend time near the water, fishing or just looking and the water as it flows by. So with that said, happy saling to you all. Would like to hear from some of my old military buddies. My e-mail address is still active. Toot. BMSN

05-28-06 Bill Armstrong - billa_1@msn.com
HeardOfUs: classmates.com
Tour: 1967-1971 John R Pierce (DD-753), John Willis (DE-1027), Tidewater (AD-31)
How would you rate us: Superb

RD2, Tidewater 69 to decommission. Your site brought back some old memories. As I read the messages, I found some people I had forgotten, some relatives of old friends, and some people I didn't even know, who had experiences I remembered. I transferred to the Tidewater in Naples in the winter of '69. Remember stopping in the middle of the Atlantic to have an inspection on our way back to Norfolk? Charleston, St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, Bermuda?

I've got a picture somewhere of a Christmas party for ops. division from around '70. Also, I've got a picture of one of the bar girls in Naples. She signed it... "to Cheapaskate, I love you no boolsheet!" I remember the good times, the good shipmates, and the good ship USS TIDEWATER.

05-26-06 Theodore R Krueger - wyobuf@fiberpipe.net
HeardOfUs: surfing for the Tidewater
Tour: 4 yrs USS Hale DD642 then USS Tidewater & USS Grand Canyon
City Now: Sheridan WY
How would you rate us: Excellent

Was only on the Tidewater from April 1955 to Aug. 1955 . I came on board as MR3 and worked in the light shop then got a swap on to the Grand Canyon to get back to Fall River where I made MR1. I worked as a too l& diemaker until 1994 when I retired and moved to Sheridan WY. If anyone knows the whereabouts of my old buddy from MR school Des Div 242 and USS Tidewater Ronald L. Turnbull I would sure like to hear from him.

05-17-06 Ed Lawrence - eddlawjazz@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: internet
Tour: Tidewater 1951-3
City Now: Spring Hill FL
How would you rate us: Absolutely GREAT

Shipmate who served from 1951-3. Looking to contact members of the US Navy Zippers Basketball Team. Would like to hear what has happend to them Please e-mail if anyone has any information on them. Thanks.

05-07-06 Barry Rocap - allmyauctions@gmail.com
HeardOfUs: surfing the net
Tour: USS Tidewater, USS Sierra, USS Canberra
How would you rate us: Superb

Served aboard the Tidewater in ships service in the laundry right out of Boot Camp in 1959. Sevem days before the 1960 Med Cruise wAs put in Portsmouth Naval Hospital with a bad appendix , and missed out going to the Med on her. Was transferred to the USS Sierra. Was transferred to the USS Canberra in Jan 1963 and did the Med Cruise that year and was discharged in Sept 1963. Saw a lot of the world and met some great guys, and have a lot of great memories.

05-06-06 Frank Mascaro - FMascaro@aol.com
HeardOfUs: RP Nash
Tour: two years - - 18 months USS Tidewater
City Now: Yonkers, NY
How would you rate us: Superb

I served aboard AD31 from 1957 to 1958, then was Master-At-Arms at Little Creek. I was in R2 Division, worked as a lithographer in the print shop. 1957 Med Cruise was the highlight. I took a week to spend in Rome with Chris Berardi and Bob Hart. We were all blessed by Pope Pius on Christmas Eve 1957, but in my case it didn't work. Hooked up with Roger Nash after our discharge and we drove out west to see America. Great memories.

04-30-06 Gerald Cauble - gjcauble@msn.com
HeardOfUs: searching internet
Tour: 6yrs Tidewater 1960, Sampson1961 Vesole1962-1965
City Now: Clinton SC
How would you rate us: Superb

Came aboard Tidewater out of boot camp, was on the 1960 Med cruise. I was transferred to the USS Sampson after cruise then to the USS Vesole. Looking through your site brought back many good memories.

03-19-06 Douglas Penrod - penrodd@sbcglobal.net
HeardOfUs: Yahoo Search
Tour: 4 years USS Tidewater 27 months
City Now: Chicago, IL
How would you rate us: Superb

Would like to hear from anyone who served aboard the Tidewater from Aug. 1967 to Jan. 1970 in the Medical or Dental Divisions.

My father, Harmon C. Thompson, was stationed on this ship in May of 46. I am looking for anyone that knew him. Saddly he passed in 1969 so I didn't get the chance to ask him any questions. When he retired in 1963 he was Chief Boiler Maker ? ( I think) anyone have any info please email me.

03-09-06 Oakley Jones - orjones@cape.com
HeardOfUs: Friend
Tour: Navy - 65-74 Tidewater 66-67
City Now: E Falmouth MA
How would you rate us: Superb

03-04-06 Wally Daubmann - thegreenfarmer@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: Googled USS Tidewater
Tour: 3 years 3 months 23 days. Onboard Tidewater 64/67
City Now: Whitestone NY. 11357
How would you rate us: Superb

What a great site. Spent an entire Saturday afternoon on a heart pounding trip down memory lane, reading many familiar names and seeing pictures of many familiar faces. I was an electrician in R-3 Divisions rewind shop from 8/64 to 8/67. We made two Med cruises, spent a sweltering summer in the Baltimore shipyard, and a cruise to the Caribbean and wonderful Gitmo. Loved those Port and Starboards in Naples. Every other day at the beach on the Isle of Capri. We had a great softball team that the CO liked to place friendly wagers on so we were cut much slack so we could practice everyday. In 69 I was at Woodstock and in 74, I went into the Peace Corps. Wishing you all Red Skies at night.

02-26-06 Kenneth Fordyce - me4welding@earthlink.net
Tour: 6 years USNR; Tidewater AD-31; 2 years active 1957-1959
City Now: Kingwood, TX
How would you rate us: Superb

Metal Worker and welder; Aerospace welder; pipe welder; Welding Engineer; Chairman ASM International Houston Chapter 2003-2004; Retired from Hydril Co. LP on December 31, 2004 (1998 to 2004); Good memories of the Tidewater and 57-58 Med cruise; would like to contact other R division crew members who served during that time.

02-08-06 Roger P. Nash - RNash@merr.com
HeardOfUs: Founding member
Tour: 2 years in Navy 1956-1958 USS Tidewater
City Now: Wauwatosa WI
How would you rate us: Superb

Just a short comment to post on the Fantail. Has any one of the members that we currently have ever taken video movies of the inside of the Tidewater. It would be nice to have a live video showing the inside of the ship.

Do you remember the paint locker where one of the local girls got lost for about three days? Do you remember the gedunk where we got ice cream. Do you remember the ship's store where we got pogie bait and cigarettes. Do you remember the skullery were almost every new boot had to serve time. Do you remember the Repair Office where I used to work and almost everyone on the ship came into to check on Repair orders. Do you remember the Optical shop where many a night was spent trying to win at between the sheets or just plain poker. Do any of the guys remember the deck force were I spent the first two months of my tour on the Tidewater chipping paint and manning the lines when we were coming into or leaving port. How many guys remember taking on food stuff so all the tin can sailors had enough to eat and we on the Tidewater eat great every day of the week. Sure wish I had a picture of the Machine shop, the Carpentry shop the sheetmetal shop, the torpedo shop and all the shops on board the ship. Wish I had a picture of the captain's office where all the courtmartials took place. Send out an SOS to all the guys and see if anyone has pictures of all the different shops we had on board or maybe by chance that someone in the later group like Bob Hall might have a video tape. This sure would be great to show a slide show or a video at the reunion.

01-21-06 Jack Shaffer MR1 - jses@lcsys.net
HeardOfUs: browsing the internet
Tour: 1952/1956 USS Tidewater AD31 4th Division
City Now: Belle Vernon PA
How would you rate us: Superb

I worked as a machinist, tool and die maker, and research-development, retiring in 1993. I would like to hear from anyone in the heavy and light machine shop during that time. I would like to know if a reunion is planned. Thanks for a great web site.

01-20-06 Bill Cook - ad31@UssTidewater.org

It is my sad duty to inform the membership of our AD31 Association that our dear friend and life member, Chief Frederick R. Smith passed away just a few days ago (January 15, 2006) after a brief illness. I first met Fred via the internet, when he discovered a photo of himself at the site here that was taken on a Med Cruise when he was just a young sailor aboard the Tidewater. The photo had been submitted by Roger Nash, who was a close friend of his while the two of them were aboard and was actually trying to find Fred after the two had gone separate ways upon Roger's departure from the Tidewater. It was quite a story of how they got back together and one that I enjoy telling to anyone who will sit still long enough to listen.

I, personally, later got to know Fred a little better after having met him and spending some time with him and Roger at the 2004 Reunion in Charleston.

Let me just say that although I didn't have the privilege of knowing Fred for a very long time, I will always remember him as fun to be with and a true Tidewater sailor no matter how many ships he may have served on during his career in the Navy. I've attached his obituary, which appeared in the local newspaper and was sent to me by Roger along with the story of how these two who were best of friends got back together after so many years.

Related stories:

• Fred's Obituary
  
• The notorius med photo of himself that Fred discovered on our website
  

11-26-05 Bill Sowell - mbsowell@alltel.net
Tour: : 2 years - USS New
City Now: Vilonia, Arkansas
How would you rate us: Superb

I served on the Tidewater while waiting on the New to return to port. It was about 30 days or so.

11-25-05 Mike Turpen - mturpen@san.rr.com
HeardOfUs: Googled Tidewater
Tour: 1 year on the Tidewater, 38 years total
City Now: San Diego CA
How would you rate us: Superb

I reported to the Tidewater in 1968 and left in 1969 after I swapped with another EM3 from the USS Sperry. East coast was okay, but I wanted to get back to the West coast. At that time I was planning on getting out after my enlistment was over. That didn't happen though and I retired last year with 38 years in as an LDO Captain.

I had a great time on the Med Cruise in 68/69 and made a lot of friends however after transferring coasts I lost track of most. Tom Baron (IC2) was my running mate most of the time and last time I knew he was in Connecticut. Jim Budai was another good friend that I lost track of.

Naples was my first foreign port and I made the most of it. Thankfully we were in Port and Starboard duty so that I could recuperate the next day. We were Med moored so always had to ride the liberty boat in and never an over night liberty unless there was heavy weather, then it was a bus ride to the NATO base (past the camp fire girls) for an overnight stay. Great times.

11-30-05 William P. Hitchcock - GUNNERE92002@HOTMAIL.COM
HeardOfUs: was looking on the net
Tour: 1956/1977 Galveston CLG-3, Tidewater AD31, Harnett Co. LST 821
City Now: Belpre OH
How would you rate us: Superb

21 years in Navy, from 1956 to 1977. Was on AD31 from 62 to 64. Retired Chief Gunner's Mate. Was in R5 Division as a 3rd and 2nd Class Gunner's Mate. Went to San Juan and th eMed. Was at the Bluebird Club when they closed it down the day Kennedy was shot. My son asked me what was my favorite ship and I told him the Tidewater.

10-10-05 Bill Cline - tog8245@yahoo.com
HeardOfUs: Classmates
Tour: 6yrs Yellowstone 64/66 Tidewater 66/69
City Now: Windsor VT
How would you rate us: Superb

Was Gyro Tech in R3 div both tenders. Was on a grunch of Destroyers in Mayport and Norfolk. Made 2 med cruise's on Tidewater, second one we were relieved by Yellowstone, who only went to the yards in Jacksonville and sea trials while I was on her. Tidewater went to Mayport to cover for Yellowstone also. And our trip to San Juan - the beer tent. We Shut down at noon because the air conditioners couldn't keep up, several days as I recall.
I saw Steve Bradshaw here and Mark Henderson. So if anyone remembers me, drop me a line, would love to hear from you.

Oh yes, Bill - you have done a wonderful job here. Thanks, sorry to have missed the reunion. Also to Mike sharp - I have one of those GYRO patches. Had it on my blue work jacket. The expression almost came true for me, when I overhauled a Gyro on an oiler outside Naples Harbor in 66 I think. She wouldn't sail unless both compasses were running, or I went with her.

I got lucky.

Lastly - I'm still raising children at age 60. I have 4 at home as of this writing ages 18, 17, 16 and 12. Two boys two girls. I'm also a single parent at this juncture.

10-04-05 John R Spicer - bjspicer1@comcast.net
HeardOfUs: Searching
Tour: AD31 - 1968-70
City Now: Ridley Park PA
How would you rate us: Absolutely GREAT

Great ship to serve on. One Med and one San Juan cruise. Good softball at the D&S piers.

09-22-05 Andy Wright - Wright247@woh.rr.com

Just to let you know I was never in the Military, however growing up in San Juan, Puerto Rico my mother, father & sister all worked at the USO club where the Tidewater was docked during Operation Springboard. I was only about 12 years old or so, but I was able to enjoy many tours / meals onboard with the fellows. Also at the time there was another ship that was docked for the duration which was the HMCS Cape Scot. I have a picture of her as she left San Juan Harbor.

I was able to hang out with the guys in the USO building and learned how to shoot pool with them. It was like I had a large contingent of “Big Brothers” . We where there from 1969 until the summer of 1973 when we moved back to the states.

On the weekends my folks ran the grille, and my sister was a ‘hostess’ I guess for lack of a better term!.

Just passing on a great memory.

09-05-05 Howard Webb - bwebb27@earthlink.net
HeardOfUs: Google
Tour: 55-59 USS Tidewater
City Now: Laurel Fork VA

Looking for men who served during the years of 55-59, hopefully E division.

08-25-05 Ralph LoVaglio Jr - ralphpotato@hotmail.com
HeardOfUs: brother is a retired chief
Tour: 1956-1960 USS Tidewater AD31
City Now: Spring Hill FL

Great site. Brings back lots of memories and places and sites to go to.

08-16-05 Robert G. Hillenbach - stockusa@sbcglobal.net
HeardOfUs: surfing
Tour: 1966-1968 USS Tidewater AD-31
City Now: Sherman Oaks CA

Served on the tidewater july 66 until 68. I had my spleen surgically removed in 67 or 68 on our way to the Med. Iwas flown by helicopter to Bermuda for recovery. Wondering if Icould contact some old buddies. i.e Bobby Bettis, Tom Fasono, etc.

07-22-05 James W. Reuther - reuther45@netscape.net
HeardOfUs: Daughter was visiting in D.C. and found the site listed at one of the places she visited.
Tour: 1963 to 1966 kiddie cruise ETN3 on Tidewater from early 65 till Sept 66 when I left early for College from Baltimore drydock.
City Now: McMillan Mi. 49853

Brings back a lot of memories and names from the past. I remember lots of hours spent in the ET shop and going alongside to work on every kind of ship in the Navy and in other navies. I remember some of the greatest liberty but should have stayed a little more sober and I would probably remember more. The hitch I did was short but it was one of the most important times in my education and development as a man.

07-08-05 Richard Robinson - viking6@tds.net
Tour: USS Alfred A. Cunningham DD 752 1961-1963
City Now: Blackville, SC 29817

I served on the USS Alfred A. Cunningham DD 752 ship fitter shop during 1961 through 1963 on the west coast, I have many great memories of my time aboard. Best regards and keep up the good work. Great site.

I enjoyed visiting your website. Great information. If any of you are ham radio operators my call is VE3YAG and VE0RCN. I i am usually on cw in the 40 and 20 meter cw subbands in the vicinity of 7058 or 14058 near the first calling frequency so if you hear me give a shout. Also to everyone of my American brethern and fellow tars - happy 4th of July. God Bless America.

07-03-05 Cynthia Zulawnick Wright - rcwcdw@cox.net
HeardOfUs: Father's Naval Papers

My father, Stanley Willis Zulawnick, served on the USS Tidewater in 1947. He was on the Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor. He served on several ships throughout his naval career. If you are interested, I will forward a picture. I would love to hear from anyone who who knew him.

I Served on the USS Coates DE685 from about April to about August of 1952. We chased submarines out of Key West, Fla for Sonar School. Three ships at a time detected subs with Sonar and when we located one a ship gave a blast on the horn and a Sonar Student on the Fan-Tail would drop a cup of dye. The sub would then discharge air for the closeness of the charge.

After about 3 or 4 months we went back to Norfolk, Va. Some of us got transfered to the USS Tidewater. I served the rest of my tour in the Captain's office as a yeoman. I played softball on the Coates and baseball on the Tidewater. Tidewater made a Carribean Tour and also a European tour.

I remember we upped anchor off the coast of Edenbourough, Scotland and while underway the USS Coates was coming alonside to pick up parts. Their Cyro Compass slid and the Coates Port Anchor came throughthe chow hall bulkhead. Food, tables chairs and sailor's scattered everywhere. After all the at sea drills, man overboard, general quarters and collisiondrills, not one horn blew and not one word over the PA system about the collision.

The Coates lost an anchor and the Tidewater's ship welders patched the hole and we got underway and we came home.

I did 4 years on the Tidewater. Got out, came back in - went to the Dixie AD-14. Got out - 10 years later, went back in (layed off at the steel mill) same rate E-5. Landed on the New Orleans LPH 11 Gator Freighter. Tripping on Marines for 2 years.

Served in the R-4 division and made rate of ETR2 while aboard the Tidewater. I remember Cook, Krickovitch, & Mosley who are listed on the site. Brings back a lot of memories.

Served on the Tidewater from 2/59 to 2/61 rate of BT3. retired from NYC board of education, after 32 years. as a plant manager. Love the Yankees, would love here from anyone from B division, or any other shipmates.

Served during 1965 thru 1967, working for Adm. Sarver, ComCruDesFlot 4. Attached to the USS Sierra and USS Tidewater...wherever the Adm. went, we went too.

I served aboard the Tidewater in 1970 for a short time before my shore duty tour came up which was also aboard a Repair ship (AR-23). On the Tidewater I worked in the sheetmetal shop. I also served aboard 3 tin cans. Anybody who is interested can read more about it and many other things related to the navy on my website:

I made a career out of welding and had my own welding business for many years until just recently.

Thanks for providing this excellant website for those of us who are interested in Tidewater history and alumni.

My dad recently passed away and I found his old Navy locker. His name was Lonnie G. Peterson. I don't have many stories about his time in the Navy, but I have a few. I have found some pictures and I have seen a few of him on this website. If anyone has stories, or would like to know anything about him, let me know. I will try to get the pictures to the web soon. I have found some of his Naval yearbooks as well. He was on the med cruise and one name came up in his stories that I can remember, Anecella (not sure of spelling).

Hello again, Bill Cook. Need to thank you for the nice picture you posted in the Reunion 2004 photo album of my wife Judy, Fred Smith and myself. Sure was great getting together again with the gang from the Tidewater. Next reunion, two years from now, will be bigger and better.

My wife and I spent about two weeks getting back home to Wisconsin from the reunion. By the time we got back the temperature was about 32 degrees at night but it warmed up to 50 during the day so we could take our insulated jackets off. Bet you never have days like that in Florida.

On another note: I read an article on the Internet *click here* when I went searching for “The Sixth Fleet”. Also found the Tidewater listed under the Sixth Fleet heading. But anyway; this article kind of shows the stress that all of us Tidewater sailors were under when we were manning the 5’38 guns,(we had 2 of them back then,) and the 40mm guns at our General Quarters stations.

I remember the Suez Crisis and the cold war crisis that we were having with Russia back then. I remember waking up one day and having the entire Sixth Fleet surrounded by over 500 Russian ships that completely encircled the Sixth Fleet from horizon to horizon and then just slowly disappeared. I don’t know why but this article sure struck home. Maybe some of the other guys are interested in reading this article.

I reported aboard in 1960 right out of TM school. I made TM3 on the ship and remember the Med. cruze in 1960. After returning from Med, I transfered to USS Stormes DD-780 and went back to Med. I have a lot of good memories of my time on the AD-31

Served aboard Tidewater,May 53 to Dec. 56. After release to inactive duty,employed by CIA about 5 yrs. and then to DMA from where I retired in 1988. Would like to hear from Louis Tavormina.Ron Shaver, Dusty Tarbox,Jon Bisnett,Robert Bateman and others from OPS and NAVIGATION Divs. Sorry I missed reunion. Just broke in new car, and then had to break in a newPacemaker and Defibrillator. Still miss good times while aboard the Tidewater.

Just a short note to all the men and women who attended the reunion in Charleston.

It was one of the most memorable times in my life to get together with old shipmates, and get to talk to crew members who served on the fine ship Tidewater prior to and after my tour. It was really great to meet face to face again with people with whom I only corresponded with through the computer.

I look forward with great anticipation to attending the upcoming reunion in 2006, and seeing many of you again.

Fair Winds and following seas to all!!!

Really a neat site, wish there was one for the Shenandoah.

I served in Supply Division as a Ship's Store Buyer and accountant. In September 1967 I received my Chief's hat and my wife presented me with our first daughter. We already had four sons. Our daughter, Heidi Charlene, was christened on board the Tidewater. The Chaplain did some research and found that her christening was a first for the Tidewater. Does anyone know the whereabouts of Lt. Arthur Emde? I know that at one point he was in Cleveland signing our retirement checks.

Assistant Dental Officer May 1957-May 1959. Med cruise 1957-1958. Enjoyed cruise book, lent mine out and it was never returned. Doing a great job, have looked through U.S. Naval Proceedings for years regarding a reunion, happy to see that one is coming up, hopefully I can attend.

I can still hear the OD yelling down to me as I left the Tidewater with my cruise box, courtesy ship's carpenter, "Hey Doc, all your mistakes in that box?"

Keep up good work. Truly superb. Still practicing dentistry in upstate New York.

The four years I spent in the U.S. Navy were the best years of my life. I still kick my butt for not staying in until retirement. The friends I met were the most loyal of my life but like most of us, when we got out, we never got back in touch. It's been nearly fifty years now and I still think about times I had while I was in. The Fifties were a different time and place. The whole world loved us then, it's sad to see where we are now.

Enjoying this trip down memory lane. Anybody remember the great cruise in February of 61 to Fort Lauderdale?

The most memorable episode I remember was Hurricane Donna in Sept. of 1960. I can still see the guys that were sea sick strapped into their racks so they wouldn't roll out on the deck. We headed for Chesapeake Bay for safe anchorage and that storm turned and we were smack in the middle of it. Both anchors out and that screw just pounding and the wind was still blowing us to land. I was in shaft alley by myself taking spring bearing temps and being 19 it was exciting. I look back on it now and it makes me weak in the knees. Does anybody out there remember the buckets tied to the racks that nobody could get to to use because the deck was too "slippery." That was an unbelievable trip we made. Came back to a flattened pier area. No trees or poles upright. Wierd sight- looked like a war had been fought.

I took a leave from trucking in Pulaski, TN to help my daughter with her kids for a few weeks down here in Mobile and that was four years ago. Guess I'm retired now. I'll look up some pictures I have. Orley Bell, Mimms, Chinn, and others in the Blue Bird Club, Naples.

Kudos to you for a great web site.

I've been trying to locate information about the USS Tidewater and my shipmates for several years. I am very much hoping to get in touch with Jerry Harper.(birthdate 11-18-1939).

Ship's barber SHSN - eventually I met everyone who needed a hair cut for inspection. I even trained a deck SN to be a barber.

Does anyone remember SH3 Cooper? Chugged an entire bottle of booze and went crazy chasing people with a straight razor or would you remember his 100 tattoos? Gee I miss those days. Would like to hear from anyone that remembers me. I could tell stories about AD31 all day.

I am writing this for my husband. He was in the 5th division of the Repair Dept. We have been in contact with a couple of Navy buddies for 50 years. Leon Gordon from Texas, George Malloch from Champaign Illinois. Would like to hear from shipmates. Some names that come to mind are Ken St. Pierre, Charles Pannier, Ace Collins, Larry Mandel. He will have to get the cruise book out to refresh his memory. Anyway hope to see you at the reunion.

Tidewater was my first ship out of boot camp 1955, reported on board as a "deck ape", WO Fred P. Huffman found me buffing a deck in officer country, "shang-haied" me down to the Torpedo shop, then about 1957 or 1958, I transferred to the Everglades as a TM2.

26 years and 7 months later, I retired out of NAS Millington, Tn , as a TMC. I often thought of Tidewater, but never ran across any of the old gang. If any of you are out there, give me a shout!

I am retired from the city bus co. I spent 25 years in the furniture business. I also was a florist - I was doing that before the Navy and worked at it in Norfolk when we were in port and after I got out (for several years).

Have seen lots of familiar faces on this web site, and, if it's possible that I can make it, I'm looking forward to seeing lots of familiar faces at the reunion. Great site, Bill. Wish I had found it earlier. You're doing a great job. Thanks for all the effort.

Tour:

After boot camp, MM "A" school, and Nuclear Power school in Bainbridge, I joined the USS Tidewater (AD31) M-div. crew in the fall of 1963 and went on my first Med cruise, returning stateside spring of 1964. Returned to Med spring of 1965, made MM2, shipped over, and transferred to USNAVCOMSTA Puerto Rico upon return from the Med, fall of 1965. I'll expand on my remaining 36+ years if anyone is interested at the Oct. 2004 reunion.

Glad to see that the list of attendees to the reunion is growing. Looks like we are going to have a good crowd, and anticipate a good time.

Was wondering if there is any in the group that remembers my brother ( robert P. Curran ) He went aboard the Tidewater out of boot camp in 1948. According the the log it was not in commission, used as a command ship. He went on to do 30yrs in the navy.

Shipmates,

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone who sent gifts or words of sympathy and encouragement following the passing of my father-in-law, Ted Krystek, SK3, AD31 '65-'67. Ted always spoke very fondly of his years as a sailor, and made me feel proud to serve whenever he could.

My wife, a Daddy's girl, is taking Ted's passing pretty hard, and understandably so. Bill, Joe, Stoney, and anyone else I am unintentionally leaving out - your words and gifts have meant a great deal to her. It is this service community and camaraderie that make me even more certain that I am in this country's Navy for the duration.

Ted was laid to rest with an honor guard, a gun salute, 'Taps', and a presentation of the Ensign to my sister-in-law "in remembrance of Thaddeus Krystek's faithful and honorable service to this country."

He, and you, have made me even more proud to say that I am a sailor.

LTjg (ex-ET2) Dave McGrath
IT Division Officer
Naval Nuclear Power Training Command

CAME ABOARD FEB 65 BMSN 2ND DIV, MADE BM3 APRIL 66 AND GOT ORDERS FOR NSA DANANG,VIETNAM. SPENT 25 OF 28 YRS ON SEA DUTY. RETIRED IN 88 CWO4 BOS'N, STILL KEEP IN TOUCH WITH A FEW TIDEWATER SHIPMATES.

My brother, Tom Philhower, was an Opticalman aboard the TIDEWATER during the mid to late 1960's, that's how I know the TIDEWATER.

I believe it was October of 1967, while visting Tom and his wife, Jean, I was lucky to visit the ship during the Navy Day celebration. As a Dental Technician, I was very interested in seeing the "dental spaces". I can't believe how small but complete they were! I would have liked to have had a chance to see how the Docs and techs could work in such confinement. Unfortunately, women were rare (if at all) aboard ships during that time so my wish never came true.

Tom and I have a cousin, Elwood Philhower (he was a BM), who had served on the TIDEWATER before Tom. So you see not only is the Navy a family tradition, the TIDEWATER is part of our family history.

The day aboard your ship has stayed with me all these years. Thank you for allowing me to visit your site.

07-03-04 Roger P. Nash - rpnash@merr.com
HeardOfUs: I am an Association member
Tour: 2 years in Navy & 23 Months aboard Tidewater
City Now: Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
How would you rate us: Superb

I have been corresponding with Chief Frederick R. Smith - Member No. 0097. Here is my e-mail to him and his reply:

Fred do you remember the collision with the oilier that we had. Ripped a hole in the starboard bow and took off 1 or 2 lifeboats from the second deck. I also remember hitting a giant wave and damaging a large girder in the forward bow of the ship. If you can confirm some of this I can write back to the Tidewater and let them know.
Talk to you again.
Roger
----------
Hi, Roger - How well I remember the collision. I was sitting on a stool in the torpedo shop when the collision occurred. I felt the crash, and the next thing I knew, I was sitting on my butt on the steel deck, and the collision alarm was going off. Thinking we were surely going to sink, I beat feet to my lifeboat, and was ready to go. Being only seventeen, and a good but not a strong enough swimmer to make it to shore, I wanted to make sure I had a ride if she did go down. The boat boom was pretty much destroyed, and what pieces were left, weren't very large. I don't recall the wave incident though, but like I told you before, my memory is a little bit iffy at times.
Fred Smith

In my old age, I've been kinda reminiscing about my youth, and the wonderful years spent on Tidewater. I managed to contact another shipmate who was on board during the time Roger Nash and I were aboard, and notified him of the Asssociation, and the web site. Hopefully he will be making contact in the near future. His name is John T. Pulverenti. He started out in the 1st Division with me, and ended up in the R-5 Torpedo Shop with me. We made both the 57-58 Med Cruise, and the 1960 cruise also. He left the ship while we were in the Med in '60, as a TM2.

In Sept. of 1955. I went aboard with my brother, Jerry, and high school classmate, Eddie Doyle. We were on the '56 Med cruise and several trips to GTMO Cuba. I was a Radioman 3rd Class and worked in "O" Division. My brother, Jerry, and buddy, Eddie, were in R2 Division in the motor shop. I'm looking for shipmates who were in O, X, and N Divisions from 1955 to 1957.

On Tuesday, June 22, 2004 I was informed by the family of T. T. Krystek, SK3, AD31 '65-'67 of his passing on Monday, June 22, 2004 at the age of 60.

The funeral will be held Monday, June 28, 2004 at the Kloecker Funeral Home, 2502 Sassafras, Erie PA, 16506. The family has requested memorials in lieu of flowers be sent to the family of Ted Krystek in care of the funeral home.

Just like to share on this Fathers' Day, I was thrilled to receive from my children a great looking hat and jacket, and cup with the Tidewater emblem on them. They also got me a copy of the 1954 Med cruise book , it was great to see my shipmates and also me in this book.
 How about that.

This is a great site. I was looking thru your sign in hoping I would come across any guys that might have went there from the Everglades after she was decommisioned/ I was in the R-1 div shipfitter shop and I think you guys relieved us in the Med in 1968. If there are anyone there from the Glades give me a shout

Excited to find this site. Lost all my photos (you know how we sailors are in port); got out in 65, Mercer Univ., Ga. State, to Alaska 1977 to work on pipeline; to Algeria 1979, Parker Drilling Co.; back to Alaska 83; elected assemblyman, then state representative. worked for Gov. Steve Cowper for four years, director in Dept of Labor. . .and had a few shots of Jack D on the way.

Does anyone know how to locate George Lincoln Harris III, S1 Division, 1965? He was from Cochituate, MA. Also Gary Peterson, I tried your email address & kept getting default; contact me, buddy. And Van Camp from Jamestown, NY?

My dad, who passed away in January 2001 was aboard the USS Tidewater from 1955-1959. He always talked fondly of his time in the Navy and he had 2 beautiful tattoos which he got in Spain. He also spoke fondly of his best friend, Larry, who was from Carmel, CA. I am thankful that this website exists as it helps me to remember my father. I am proud to say that my father served in the U.S. Navy.

I have some sad news to report this morning. Life Member Ralph Jones passed away today in the hospital after an extended illness followed by bypass surgery last week. I have sent a card to his family - they live in Fort Wayne, IN. If you'd like to also, please l