photo courtesy of Bob Hall

he photo above shows Commander John Derr's wife's calling card (Dottie Derr). It was provided to us via Bob Hall, who served under Commander Derr, Tide's XO during Hall's tour of duty.

In Commander Derr's words: "Calling cards have been a part of our U.S. Navy tradition for years, especially prior to WWII. Officers' and their wives' 'full sea bag' consisted of small cards showing name and officer grade and just name for distaff side . These calling cards were used when calling on seniors as one reported to a new duty station.  A calling card tray as shown above was a standard feature in military quarters and could be found located inside the home near the front door.  The tray shown above was a gift to Dorothy Derr from the Officer's Wives Club on Tidewater.  While it has been a treasured gift, Mrs. Derr now wishes to donate it to the Tidewater organization.

Calling cards were left in the tray provided to remind the officer visited who it was that dropped in for the call.  Both the officer and his lady were to drop a card if, indeed, they both made the call. Children of the reporting officer were expected to accompany the parents on this call which gave a better view of just who the new officer was.  Families have always been an integral part of Navy life.   Newly reporting officers were expected to call on their new commanding officer shortly after one or  the other reported to the duty station.  A short call of about 20 minutes duration was the norm."

Click here to see another photo of the tray.