DeHaven Log 5December 2000 to December 2001 Thank you for visiting our log. We would love it if you would Add to this log. |
I wasn't aware of the USS DeHaven, my great great great grandfather,Want to wish all a Happy New Year in 2002 and hope to see you in Texas in Sept. Carl R Leffel 1952 -1956 Served from commissioning thru april 1946 Electricians mate 2 nd Wishing all fellow shipmates and USS DeHaven DD-727 associates a very happy and prosperous new year. I'm starting it off as a retired citizen and am sorta scared of the prospect of not working every day. Karen says I'll enjoy it.
Jerry Stephenson BT2 1958-61 served aboard the De Haven 1966 viet nam era Happy Holidays to all DeHaven Association members. Hope Santa was good to everyone, especially the Gene Haynes family.Looking forward to seeing everyone in San Antonio next year. I served on the DeHaven 61-63. MMFN Would like to hear from fellow shipmates.Wishing all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healty New Year. Hey swabbies! Just found you guys. USS Dehaven 66-70, Gardner GMG2. Worked the deck force with Pilgrim for awhile. Burned Eaglebeaks nose with my lighter. Fired lots of NGFS. Was there when Peters stabbed Skin. Remember Livingston, Tex and those crazy Alldredge Bros. I served on the USS LYMAN K SWENSON (729) 52-54 I cannot remember if we were DESRON 4 or 9 ? I know that the 727,728,729,& 730 served together. Best Wishes, Carl (IC-3) Nephew of Thomas Leroy DeVore. I was aboard the De Haven while it was being decommissioned.
This was 1974, and my rating was commissary. Very nice site, I wish I had the knowledge to do the things you have done with this site served aboard the de haven 65-66. i was a quartermaster(QM3)i live in phoenix, az. if in town please give me a call 480-981-0522, would like very much to hear from you. also andy kukorelli TM3 lives here too! god bless and hope to hear from you. thom davis. My great uncle, Lt. Adam Williams DeMers, was killed aboard the USS DeHaven on February 2, 1944. I am looking for more information about my uncle, about the incident on 2/2/44, and about the USS DeHaven. Happy Holidays to all shipmates who sailed the DeHaven and to the familes of those we now consider as part of our DeHaven family.God bless you all for staying in touch with us through out the years. On 12/11/01 Mr. Dexter and I spoke at length about WWII and particularly my Fathers role on the USS DeHaven. Without this website, which enabled me to contact Mr. Dexter, I would never would have known what my Dad and the other men experienced. I enjoyed talking to Mr. Dexter and appreciate his time. I want to thank the developers and maintainers of the USSDeHaven website. I just found this site and was curious about what was here. Just found this site the other day and it's great! I served on the DeHaven 727 from 1958 to 1961. I have already contacted some old ship mates and would like to here from more that served at the same time. One man stuck out in my mind all these years and I don't know why. Maybe because I have a picture of him in my picture box. I found a posting from him in here yesterday. Transito Gonzalez Solis. It was posted in sept of this year.Can't believe he was on the 727 for 12 years. WOW! Anyway I clicked onto his e-mail address and dropped him a line and it came back. Does anyone know why his address is no good or any thing about him. Hope he's ok. Thank you for allowing me to sign the log. Bob Popp is a good friend and a hard worker on behalf of veterans at the Iowa Veterans Home. My father served on the DeHaven from 3/31/44 till 9/1/45 An old salt of the sea, Bob Popp, suggested I check out this website as an example of a job well done. I intend to do just that. USS Porter DD800 1951-1954 Proud of My Father Who served with all of you. My Uncle Bob Popp served on this ship from 51-53! USA I served on board the "De Haven" from 12/60
to 6/62.
I would Appreciate hearing from crew members
of that period. My brother Gerald Himmelsbach was also in the Navy,during WWII. He was staioned in San Diego,CA.years of service I believe were 1943-47.I do not know what ship he was on but I do know thst his ship was in the Pacific and at the time on Enowetuk Island when the Navy tested the atomic bomb. Ger came home safely aand my family was thankful. Ger may have been 2nd or 3rd class.not sure. I do know his ship was near Japan because he brought home some beautiful embroidered linens and blue willoware dishes and kimonos. Maybe he was in gunneryand also a ship's barber or cook as my Dad had been. Ger loved to bake cakes and fudge.but he didn't want to share.he'd wait for us younger sisters to go to bed. However he'd ask me to iron those awful uniforms. He was a funny guy and liked to play practical jokes on us. Does any navy man who maay have served with him,remember Ger and could recount the times aboard ship or on-leave with him? Ger was a proud Navyman and devoted to the Navy as my Dad had been..I want to thank all service men who have foughtor ready to fight for our country. God Bless you all and God Bless America. Also those who are now in services ready to defend our United States of America..Would any Navy persons who knew my Father or brother kindly log-in and leave their comments. Cousin Tom Potts if you happen to see this please contact me at the above E-Mail. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to all. Geri Himmelsbach/Willging My Father was in the Navy WWI and about 1904-7.I do not know what ship he was on nor what type of ship possibly a destroyer(?}He may have been in his 20's(yrs)I remember a picture of him on the ship with some other sailors and one of him sitting on a ships bunk,and I wish I had those pictures of him,is there any chance of getting 2 copies of those pictures;the Navy must have taken them??He was a handsome dark-haired dark brown eyed young man(caucasian).Maybe somme old Navy man out there might remember Henry Jacob Himmelsbach (Jake or Hank-nicknames)If there are any replies to this my deepest thanks and appreciation is extended. Geri Himmelsbach Hi Dan,
I was an ftsn on the Raven D from 1950 until Aug. 1953. I am using my younger daughters computer so she gets the messages nad informs me by telephone when I have messages.
You can now send me the latest scuttelbut by E-Mail. Thanks
Doug Frye Hi! Wishing everyone a happy thanksgiving! Just found this excellent site and applied for assn. membership. Was aboard mid '59 to early '60 as an FT2. Left DeHaven in early '60 for B school. Retired from USN in '78. Most interesting is the info on first DeHaven's location in Iron Bottom Sound near my first destroyer's namesake; USS Cushing. I was on the USS Cushing DD-797 from late '56 to mid '59. Both my destroyer's namesakes are near each other on the ocean floor. What a coincidence. Loooking for any shipmates who served in DeHaven in 69-70 on the WestPac cruise. I was the Chief PN in the Ship's Office & retired when we got back to Long Beach. I currently live in Central Fl. Scott, I recently received my 2002 dues billing and the letter enclosed concerning the 'Old Raven's' web site.this is the first I heard of it. I was a 3rd. class cook aboard the the DeHaven 1955 -1956. My Buddie also a 3rd. class cook was Bill Benton I would appreciate any help in locating him. Scott thank you for doing such a great job. I'm sure glad to know about the site. I WAS ON THE USS DEHAVEN FROM 69 TO 71. I WAS A COOK. I WOULD LIKE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH MY SHIP MATES. IF ANYONE KNOWS WHERE TOM LANEY OR JACK ARGUST MIGHT BE WRITE ME THANKS. NON HACKER!!! Cool Site. Wish there were more like this one on the Net. served on the USS DeHaven 1960 to 1962, any of the old sailors out there that would like to chat. Hello to all my shipmates from Apr 1971 through Dec 1973. We were the last in the U.S. Navy to sail DeHaven in troubled waters and fire our guns for peace. Would love to hear from some of you. Couldn't believe it when I found this web site! Anybody remember the sinking of the Hoi Lee ( a Chinese freighter ) somewhere in the Tonkin Gulf. FATHER, IRVING KREUTCHIC, RADIOMAN SERVED ABOARD IN 1944-45, AND WAS ABOARD FOR JAPANESE SURRENDER. Hey Red Taylor How about an E-mail address. I was in the forward fireroom at the same time with Otis, Sam Lyle, Fuentes and Red Hanna. Send Me an E-mail because I often get to Texas witjh my job served onboard from 70-71 Hey Melvin...too bad you didn't leave us an address so that we could get hold of you. I too was a BT aboard. Very Glad to see all the names on the list.Have talk to some of the guy like Taco ,ACE.]
Was on the DEHAVEN from 1969 to1971 in the after fire room. My husband George H.(Hank) Welbourn recently passed at the age of 79. He served aboard from 1944 through 1946 in the capacity as Machinist Mate 1st Class. As a member of the nucleous crew, he saw the ship through it's construction, outfitting, shakedown and it's commissioning in Boston Massachusetts and sailed in her to the South Pacific via Norfork Va. and San Diego Ca.. He acheived the rate of Chief Machinist Mate while in the South Pacific. I took great pride in my husbands career and was with him on the East and West Coast whenever the ship was in. To those men who served with Hank I say thank you. Hello DeHaven! I love the additions and changes you've made since I last visited. It's always good to know that these wonderful ships are being preserved where no one can harm them again. Come and visit! Greetings: My step-father Edward S. Majerski served on the DeHaven from its commissioning until its return
to San Francisco in 1945. He was a Gunner's Mate on one of the 5"-38s As I recall him telling me. Ed passed
away from complications due to Diabetes on October 30, 1993. I would love to hear from any shipmates of
"Eddy" who might flesh out a few details of his onboard life and relationships. Ed was born and raised on the
south side of Chicago and spent all his life in the Chicago Area. Thanks in advance for any stories. Lou Bersie served on this ship during WW2 Ill be back later with storys I was a Shipmate on the Dehaven DD727 from July 58-70 during the atomic Testing in the Pacific. I am looking for some infomation about the nuclear testing, can anyone help
my e-mail address is solistg@hotmail.com Keep up the good job ...we love you guys! I sailed on your sister ship USS Mansfield DD728 back in1949 Is anyone else from the Viet Nam era experiencing regressive thoughts and feelings relating to the calamities that occurred in New York City and Washington, DC? My initial reaction was to 're-up' or find a way to help in a mitilaristic way. We can't afford to lose this time. I was on the DeHaven DD 727 1958 and 1959.
An old shipmate of mine told me about this site. Hello...very nice site. I am interested if anyone remembers my uncle Cletus Dixon - he went down with the ship in World War II. If anyone has memories they could share, I know it would mean a lot to my grandfather, his older brother. If any of the photographs (snapshots) posted are of WW2, could that somehow be identifited? Thanks. I'm busting with pride and dread at the same time, and you guys will understand what I mean. My Son, LCDR. Law Risken JR, had his first drill with his new Unit a Harbor Defense Reserve Unit in Long Beach CA on Friday. His Unit received Activation Warning for OCT. He was not on the Draft because he had not reported. He volunteered to go with the group, looks like he will be with them on a probable overseas assignment.He is married and a Special ED Teacher in LA. I know you understand my pride. Regards....Law Risken, SO3..54-56 Let us not forget-December 7,1941- September 11,2001. Almost60 years apart. If you look it is the craps no. #7 come #11.
We can make it work, and say a prayer for all of those who are working to look for those that are missing. Sonia and I would like to assure those of you who have asked, yes, our daughter is safe. Thank God. She was off work on Tuesday and at her gym several blocks away from the WTC. When she learned what had happened she took off running the 30 blocks to her home, and was apparently nearly there when the 2nd plane struck. I will never again tease her about her rigid physical fitness regime!
The cowards who perpetrated these acts have brought Americans together as nothing since Pearl Harbor has done. Their acts will prove their undoing. Our Congress and Senate have come together and given our President the authority to “use any force deemed necessary” to find and punish these criminals. Now is not the time for us to second-guess our leaders. We must stand with them in any decision they must make to ensure the security of our nation.
I pray for the victims of these disasters, and for their families, and I salute the people of New York and Washington for their efforts at rescue and recovery.
At noon today, I will lower my flag to half-mast. For one minute. Then I will again raise it to the top. Americans bow to no one. My flag will not be seen to bow, I am merely saluting all concerned. I mourn in my heart, mind and soul, but my love of this nation will not allow me to lower my colors at the acts of cowards.
We are veterans. We know that no one hates, fears or dreads war more that the warrior. If, as it now seems, such a thing is inevitable, we must again stand side-by-side as we have in the past. We must support or leaders and our military and pray they be given the wisdom and strength to do what must be done.
God bless America! Anyone know James Paul Rossman, he was abourd in the late 60's.
If you do, tell him he left son in Long Beach California. Tell me
anything, please. Served On DeHaven (DD 727)From 1968 to 1972; 2 years on deck division then 2 years as the ships only TM-3 during the early 70's. My time on This great ship was an adventure I'll never forget. Would like to chat with shipmates from that time period. Now living in the San Diego Area.
" Really a great Web-Site " Served forward engine rood from 1952 to 53. Now retired and living in motorcycle paradise. Have my dirt bike for the mountain and my sidecar for street rides with my dog Ginger. Any old DeHaven people who like to ride are more than welcom to come visit. Served onboard DeHaven as Leading IC-man from August 1962 until 11 August 1967, the very day the DASH crashed during turn-up.
Remember well the days under J.W. Montgomery, we never missed a deployment (nobody's). And (X.O.) B.R. (rapidly recurring red running rust) Banks.
Those were the worst of times, we became prisioners to the war. I hated her! But, as the years slowly dragged by, and I became an old sea dog, things began to change. DeHaven grew on me. Compared to other DDs she always seemed to be out front, She looked better and never missed her own commitments. Some Master Chief, during underway training, set us straight one day, told us this garbage barge (as we refered to her), survived the storm that just about sank the fleet.
VietNam was a series of exciting days and nights, accented by untold replenshments. Many stories of many missions and many mistakes, but she always prevailed.
Leaving the "Dirty D", was bitter-sweet. I longed to be a part of what lay ahead, and at the same time was anxious to get clear of the whole mess. The crash of the DASH sort of sums it up.
Our DASH reached a record 500 hours air time without a loss, shortly before I departed, the only ship to hold that distinction. On that faitful day, I decided to make one last trip to the ship's store in the after fan room. Some Bosn's mate came by and raised hell because the port wt door was open during flight ops, and he closed it. About that time they passed the word about some Admiral crossing.
The DASH was tethered over head running up, making one hell of a racket, when all of a sudden it went silent. Someone said, "oh, oh". Then we heard the crash, as it made a failed landing attempt on the pier.
We opened the door and saw the crippled craft laying on the pier, bouncing and spurting fuel, each time the rotor came around. Then someone let out a laugh, and we all looked toward the head of the pier to see the Admiral's black sedan, with his Japaneese driver still sitting at the wheel. He slowly opened the door and got out, turned and stared in disbelief at the now mangled vehicle. Lead from the rotors had made short work of that car.
I left DeHaven that day, threw her one last well deserved salute, turned and walked away, never looking back, until today. She made a "Lifer" out of me. I really like your web site. Great Site! Nice site... One problem with the website- it does not show that there is an underscore (_) between the "T" and the "G" in my e-mail address, so remember SGT_GATOR@excite.com! My father, Clifford Bohmfalk ("Kick"), served on DD 727 from 1945-47 and 1948, went to China. He was a fire controlman (Seaman First Class). He is looking forward to San Antonio reunion, and is wanting to see if anybody remembers him. He is also looking for a shipmate he remembers being from Saudy, Tennessee or Kentucky (I forget- oops). I'm also investigating a rumor that there is a De Haven model kit. If so, I want to build one for him- please let me know. Also, looking for info regarding a silhouette ships baseball cap. Hope to see y'all in San Antonio in 2002! Hi My name is James A Shue I served aboard her from 49-53 I was in the aft. fireroom. I am looking for a buddy Eugene Prather If any one knows his whereabouts please email me Thanks and Scott you do a fine job. Father served aboard the DeHaven during Vietnam I served on the DeHaven from 1958-1959. Would like to find Joe Garcia. Be advised of my new e-mail address.
Received the Raven DeHaven today, July 27, 2001. I was quite pleased with the article on the 469. It is the most reliable version, from my aging memory, of what happened on 01 Feb 43. Many thanks to Dan and/or Scott, et all, for printing this often thought of piece of history. The 727 and its crew also did a great job in all their "adventures" in their tour of duty. Well Done to all.
Fair seas, shipmates.
Nick Doulas, DD469, Survivor. nik469@juno.com It's been a while since I checked in. Just wanted to stop by and say "Howdy".
Made a trip to Seattle earlier this month for the reunion of the USS Orleck DD-886. Turned out to be quite a shindig with over 300 showing up! Finances being as they are, looks like I have to alternate between the 886 & 727 year by year. Wish I could do both ships, but my wife insists on eating and paying bills.(go figure).
BZ on the site guys, it just keeps getting better.
Hope someone from the 66-67 crew can take a minute to give me a yell.
Smooth seas. My dad Lawrence J. Lyons served on the DeHaven 727 and boarded it in Bath. He was very proud of his ship, and kept prints and information about it. He was a member of the tin can sailors for several years before his death in February, 1995.Thanks for the information and I am enjoying the site. Coincidentally, our good friends live in Bath, and we will be visiting them in August 2001. Although I have seen the shipyard from a distance before, I am hoping to get a closer look this year.I know he considered his shipboard experience the best time of his life. I served on the USS DeHaven DD727 from May of 1970 to Sept
1970. I was pulled of on emergency leave for my Dad had lung cancer and died on Jan 12 1971. My brother Joe T. Story served on board from 1969 to Sept 1970. My brother, Walter E. Loden, was a Fire Control Tech on the DeHaven during the Korean War days and off and on until his retirement in 1968. His last assignment was with the DeHaven at the Hunter's Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco where it was being outfitted with missiles. I would like to hear from anyone who knew him. Would love to hear from any of the gang from 73-74 The "NUE"
brothers await your calls...John Scott - haven't heard from you since I emailed a photo of the DeHaven with the RAT on Mt 53. Did you get it? Does anyone else beside me and Chief Johnson remember what it was.
Great job your doing on this site!
Jerry (Steve) Stephenson BT2 58-61 I watched Iwo Jima on 6-17-01 on A&E and it gave such detail on everything it was out standing. I would have to honestly say that it deserves a standing ovation. Has anyone heard where RD2 Larry Marrs is ????? forward eng room 55 and 56 MM1
Enjoyable reading about years gone by. You can feel the
fellowship in the notes.I'm proud to have been aboard her
as well. IC-3 - 1958 > 1959 Served aboard 2/66-1/1/68. BEST TOUR OF MY CAREER. Who was the ship named after? My wife's second cousin was Robert Edward Lee who went down with the 469. We visited the cemetary where his marker is on Memorial Day. My mother-in-law (Robert's first cousin) only knew that he went down with the ship. I noted the date of death and did a little research and, by chance, came upon this site. Robert was from the little town of Altamont, MO. That is where his marker is, next to his mother and father.
I saw that you did not have his home town on the list. I thought you might want to know.
Thanks to all veterans and their families. Thinking of all the men who have served onboard the DeHaven, and their families on this Memorial Day weekend. God bless.
I would also be interested in learning of any survivors from the original DeHaven 469. Is there a list of those who are still living? Would like to contact them and get their stories. I'm sure others have, and if not they should be located and remembered.
Great work. This is a great site. I was here a couple months ago,asking for information about my uncle--an officer who went down on the original DeHaven. I accidentally put in the wrong name--no wonder I haven't heard from anyone! So, does anyone remember my uncle, Ralph Huey, from the original DeHaven? thanks. Was on board 1949-1951. Served adoard USS DeHaven May 1968 to March 1970 Extremely well done and maintained. A hearty "Bravo Zulu"
to one and all. Congratulations on a great web site from the crew of the USS RED OAK VICTORY (AK-235) now being restored at its "birthplace" in 1944...Kaiser Permenente Shipyard #1 in Richmond, Ca. Scott,
Great job on the new format. Sit tall in your chair - it's really quite professional. Keep up the good work. Scott, I didn't really think you could improve on the web-site. Congratulations to you and to all involved. BZ! Beautiful job! Hi Scott, Just tried to go to the chatroom and got no results. Every thing else really look good. I think you done a GREAT JOB on the site.
Hope all is well with you and your family
Carl R.Leffel (the Snipe) Scott you have done it again. What a great idea the up-date the site. It looks great and is so much
easier to get around in. Hope everyone likes it. If you sign the log book and are not a member of the DeHaven Assn. PLEASE go to member sign-up and do so before you leave the web page. I was aboard from '52-55. Does anyone know whereabouts of Capt. T.C. Sigmund? How about James Small, RM3? It is nice to find this site about the DeHaven. My father was
ensign Clem C. Williams, Jr., a gunnery officer and one of the few
officers who survived. In fact, it was he who unset the depth
charges so that his fellow sailors would not be blown out of the
sea. We treasure the stopwatch he was wearing at the time of the
disaster -- it stopped the moment he jumped into the sea. Of course,
the experience was pivotal for him -- he rarely spoke of it except
to tell of the dear friends whom he lost. We found out about his
role in saving many of his shipmates by discovering an old newspaper
clipping that my grandfather had saved... I serve aboard as she was going to Japan for a 2 year tour of
duty. I was a MMCS. As soon as we arrived in port I was transferred
the Frank Knox. You have a very good sight Great picture! Great project! USS DeHaven BM 1965-1968 Second Division, Just found this web
site, pretty interesting information. My father served on the Dehaven before and during the Korean War.
His name was Milton Davis. He was a Chief Torpedoman's Mate. He died
in 1971 of a heart attack when I was 13 years old. I would
desperately love to hear from anyone who knew him and could pass
along any info whatsoever. I have his medals framed and prominently
displated in my home. I also cherish the flag from his casket. I
miss him still and would love to hear from anyone who knew him. Don Hey, Harvey Pitcher: Put your Email address in, dummy! Have you
heard from Sandy since we all left Dehaven? Let me know what you are
up to now. Also, I've got photos if you'd like copies. 3rd Class Bosun Mate--1967-'68. Based in Yokosuka/Tonkin Gulf. You're welcome, Eddy. Smooth sailing to all I served aboard the DeHaven from April 1967 to May 1970. I was in
G Division. Started out there as an FTGSN and was an FTG3 when I
left. I am thrilled to pieces to have been introduced to this site.
I had searched for years trying to find a way to contact my
shipmates with no success, so I gave up. Then while searching for
something else I stumbled onto a link that let you find your
military buddies. I found a couple of shipmates in the link and
added my name to the list. Today I got an e-mail from one of my
shipmates who told me about this site. This is the best thing I have
seen since using the web. Keep up the great work. Francis
"Eddy" Wow! DD-727's website. What a find! I served my last 16, USN-Regular
months on her in Long Beach from March 1972 to July 1973. She was my
last duty station of 4 years of regular Navy. She was a Reserve
Training ship then. I came to the DeHaven from 28 months on with the
Oklahoma City (CLG-5); having left the "VN gunline".
Anyone from my tour on DeHaven out there. Hope to hear from you. Would just like to say thanks to everyone who had anything to do
with setting up this trip! Especially to Dan and his wife. It was
great and we met so many new people. Our dinner mates were great and
we both enjoyed them and the the others so much. We have been to
many reunions over the past 60 years but this was the best due to
the freindly attitude of everyone. Thanks again for inviting us!
Ginny and Russ Macomber Hello! Would like to thank whoever thought up the cruise, it was
wonderful. Have never had such a good time in my whole life. You
miss a great one if you didn't go. Hugs to all Kaye Glad to see relatives and friends of DeHavens crews of past years
visiting the web site and signing on.Have contacted family members
of former crewmates and have enjoyed e-mail exchanges.Keep up the
messages, as it brings back fond but not forgotten memories. Very proud to be an American, and proud of our men and women who
serve so well. Just browsing to see if you old buggers are still 'hail and
hearty'. Regards from Stan Kimberley. Ex Royal Australian Navy,
Korea. Served on 'Shoalhaven' and 'Warramunga'. Ahoy fellow squadron mates!! Desron 9 that is. I was a
Storekeeper on the USS Duncan DDR 874 from Sept. 62 through July 64.
I have several feet of movie film (converted to VHS) with the
DeHaven in it. We have a Reunion in Seattle Aug 30, 31, Sept.1 and 2
at the Wyndham Hotel, if you are in the area stop by and say hello. SERVED ABOARD USS DE HAVEN 69 TO 72 OI DIVISION REMEMBER IT AS IF
IT WAS YESTERDAY Plank owner '43-'45 I am related to a DeHaven....so I find this site very, very
interesting.... Just want to know if anyone that was on board in the years of
54,55 and 56 rembers the guy by the name of Melvem Kelso Bt3. He was
the oil king somewhere in that time frame.He baught Don Moore's
house trailer when Don left the ship. There were four of us that
used to ride motercycles togeather. Willian's out of the foward
fireroom was another. Would like to know his where abouts. Carl
R.Leffel (Dick) I am doing a school report on the USS DeHaven 727, in honor of my
grandpa who recently passed away Larry R. Burks, and in honor of
others that served. If anyone has any stories to share about the
DeHaven DD-727, or if they knew my grandpa, I would be very
thankful. MoonMango16@hotmail.com I served on board the DeHaven for three years, 1968 to 1970,
first as a (green) ensign in Engineering, ended up as Communications
Officer and Navigator. When I came on board in the spring of 68 she
had been home ported in Japan for about two years and was ready to
head back to Long Beach. So during my first six months on board we
hit Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, then Australia and New
Zealand. Also stopped to refuel in Pago Pago on the way up to
Hawaii. That was a great tour. After a year in Long Beach we went
back to WestPac for another six month tour, which included a call in
Bangkok. Of course, we were in and out of Japan and Yokusuka all the
time. Highlights for me were conning the ship in rough seas, going
along side to refuel, and also taking her in to Subic once. Lots of
good memories of that part of my life. Former Commanding Officer Walter Kelley. I too have tried to locate Marvin Kunz without any
success. I sent you an E-mail. The people who run this site do an
outstanding job. Keep it up. My Dad, Herb Swavely served on the USS DeHaven 727 from the time
it was comissioned until the end of WW II. He was the ships cook.
Anyone with any other relatives from that time era??? This site is so easy to navigate. Others may have more graphics
and/or music but they are hard to meander through. Could you guys
start giving lessons? I served onboard the DEHAVEN from 66-69 as postal clerk,PC3 would
like to hear from harvey pitcher, roy m. payne,and bob kimbrough or
any other shipmates I was stationed on the DeHaven from 1961 to 1964 MM2, home ported
Japan. I was incharge of the after engine rm. Hi Scott, Sorry you are not going on the cruise,Just hope Dan
dose a good job for you on the picture taking. Are you going to make
a CD? Well just want to say thanks for the web site and the job that
you are doing. Its great! Hope all is well with you and your family.
Later Carl (The Snipe) This is Dan, President of DeHaven Assn. I have been contacted by
a Henry Miller twice in the past 2 weeks. Both times there was a
virus attached to his e-mail. The first virus was named
"Backdoor-Playboy.exe" The last virus was attached to a
message named "DEHAVEN Reunion cruise" and the name of the
virus was "Wscript.kakWorm". We do not show Henry as a
member. If Henry reads this please have your computer cleaned up
before sending any more e-mail to us. If anyone knows a Henry Miller
please contact me so I can make contact with him other than e-mail.
If any of you receive an e-mail with the Subj; named "DEHAVEN
Reunion cruise" delete it without opening it. I was on the DeHaven when it was decommisioned in Dec, 1973 and
given to South Korean navy. We were homeported out of Long Beach,
Ca. Most of the crew was TAD from the USS Higbee for the prep and
decomissioning of the DeHaven. Marty... I served on the DeHaven DD727 from 1954-1956 as an IC Tech. It
was great to find a web site like this to browse through. I Was the guy with the anchor tatooed on my belly. 65 to early
66. I was in 2nd div. I remember Bill Bain & Walters Buddy
Pilgram, can,t remember KIllers name ,Granny Fuchs,MR Chapman, MR
Barney. This was fun!!!! TIL next time. Wonderful site, great Korean nostalgia...I served on O'Brien,
DD-725 from 12'51-12'54 and operated many times with DesDiv 91. Your
log on the 52-53 Korean cruise brought back many memories &
places I had pretty much forgot. DeHaven, Mansfield, Swenson, &
Collett were always the Div. easiest to recall because of the
sequential numbers. (O'Brien was flagship of DESDIV 132, O'Brien,
(DD-725), Walke (DD-723), Hubbard, (DD-748), and Brown (DD-546). I
made three WestPac cruises and encountered DESDIV 91 wherever we
went. I congratulate you for keeping alive the memories of these
great ships! Roy C. Thomas SO1 USN (way back then) I was Communications Officer of DeHaven from April 1971 through
December 1973. I would love to hear from my shipmates. I SERVED ABOARD DEHAVEN FROM 1967 THRU 1968. RECEIVED ADVANCEMENT
TO PC3 AFTER DEPARTURE. I did not serve aboard from 68-69, it was 67-68. I must have
consumed too much bilge water. I went from the Dirty D to the
Waddell (DDG-24) and stayed over there 2 more years. Obviously too
much bilge water. This remains the best site for any ship I have seen. Keep up the
great work. I have changed my e-mail address since my last note. I
served aboard from 68-69 almost a year to the day. It is great to
read the log and see some names that are familiar but I must admit
it is hard to put a face with them. I would love to hear from anyone
who remembers my ugly mug. I have both good and bad memories of a
time that seems so long ago now. God's blessings to all. At last years reunion we toured the Capital Grounds. The State
Capitol Bldg and other Campus Bldg to a big hit from Wednesday's
Quake. We are 5 miles south of the center. I had minor damage at
home. I was reminded of DD727 when the house went from port to
starboard and back for 45secs. The Brewery and I both survived.
Regards to all. Law Risken, Class of 54 - 56 I served onboard the Dehaven in 1958. WestPac Cruise involved
Atomic Divices in the Marshall Islands.I was a Signalman, and still
have some good memories of that cruise. would like to hear from anyone that was on ship from 45 to 50 .
my brother was on ship at this time his name Art Atkins (Buck) Betty & I really enjoyed the Bremerton reunion. We can't make
the cruise, but wish you well. I was on the DeHaven 50-53. Anyone
know where Marvin Kuntz is ,He was a torpedoman. After spending some time touring the web site, I am excited about
the possibility of locating some old friends. I served aboard 727
from 69-71. Two westpac cruised allowed me to meet many great guys.
I still have my cruise books and many slides. Nice looking site. Looking for Al Breining -- is he still around? I served aboard this ship Feb. 1967 to Oct 1968. Hi to every DeHaven sailor, I have been to this site many times
looking for old shipmates. I have found a few, and sent notes to
them. I was aboard 68/72 approx. I came aboard as an RDSN and left
an RD2. I remember so many names, but only a few come with a face. I
am 51 and sometimes it is so good to go back to those years and
enjoy the memories. I am very happy with my life, and will retire
soon....but life was simpler then and somehow the memories of those
Westpac cruises, the good and the bad, are PRICELESS. I will check
in more often. Best to all of you. Michael Forbes My mother's only brother, Ralph Leonard, was one of the officers
who went down on the original DeHaven. No one ever talked about
it--so I'm interested in learning more. Did anyone know my father (DK3 James Gilley)? He serverd on the
DeHaven in the early 60's. Served aboard DeHaven 1070-1971 FTG2. Retired CWO4 in 1993.
Presently an Environmental Investigator for the state of Texas. i ngoy the web sight reading jokes from ,LEFFEL just saying hi to everyone. I want to thank all of you for the cards and prayers that you all
said and sent. It helps to have friend.Again "thanks" Carl
R. Leffel My Dad was named CE Burroughs and was on the 469 when she went
down. Would love to hear from anyone who knew him. LOOKING FOR COOPER,GULP,GRAPENTHIN,HECKMANN,T.HILL,JENKINS,FROM
65-66 Just found your site. I was on the DeHaven from 71-73. I am a USMC VIetnam Veteran studying the naval support and
operations from WW11 through Desert Storm. Never heard of your ship
until starting research.Maybe you Vietnam swabbies lobbed a few
shells at Charlie to support ops that I was in. Anyway, thanks to a
bunch of unsung heroes. I was on the DeHaven in 1950 but a friend of mine was the
Engineering Officer on the DD855 in 1954.We were reminiscing the
other night and couldn't remember what the rate insignia a gear with
callipers was. Can any one out there help us out? Nice work, Scott! You are a man of many talents and a seabag full
of patience. Anyone knowing the whereabout of Aaronnisenbaum rt3/c fom the
city of NY, please contact Mathew A Dymek @ dipmat@yahoo.com Mat Uss
pringleDD477 Anyone knowing the whereabout of Aaronnisenbaum rt3/c fom the
city of NY, please contact Mathew A Dymek @ dipmat@yahoo.com Mat Uss
pringleDD477 i served on the john w thomason dd 760 in 1963 This is a little embarrassing. Memory fails me. Who, other than
the Henderso, were the sister ships in DESRON 9 during 66&67? Enjoyed the sea stories of the DeHaven and I know such actions do
happen; I could spin a few as similar acts happened on the smaller
D.E.s of which I was on in 44 and 45. Served as Fire Control Tech. Guns 1969-1973 My dad served on her during the korean war.I am currently
building him a model of her.The kit is a WWII version so I need
pictures of her during Korea.Your web site should help me alot.
Thanks Came aboard in 1968; Radioman 2nd class. Had been a landlubber
until then so the adjustment took a few weeks. I did enjoy the
cruise to WestPac, the typhoon, and seeing Japan. Sure was a
different world at sea in the middle of the night with no lights on.
Wow! Talk about dark. Lots of pressure in those days to keep the
broadcast up and running. Hope all is well. Blessings. This came to me from a young lady, a staff sergeant, at McClellan
AFB here in Sacramento. After drying my eyes, (and keyboard) I
resolved to send it to as many people as I could. Please take the
time to read it and perhaps pass it on May I SaluteYou? By Patricia
Salwei I approached the entrance to Ft Belvoir's medical facility
last year as an old veteran puttered towards me. Easily over 80
years old, stooped and slow, I Barely gave him a second glance
because on his heels was a full bird colonel. As they approached, I
rendered a sharp salute and barked Good morning, Sir! Because they
were heel to toe, I began my salute, as the old veteran was about
two paces from me. He immediately came to life! Transformed by my
greeting, he rose to his full height, returned my salute with pride,
and exclaimed, Good morning, Captain! I was startled, but the full
bird behind him was flabbergasted. The colonel stopped mid-salute,smiled
at me and quietly moved on. As I entered the clinic, the utter
beauty of the encounter preoccupied me. What prompted the old man to
assume that I was saluting him? Perhaps he just thought,It's about
time! After all, doesn't a W.W.II vet outrank us all? I turned my
attention to the waiting room taking a moment to survey the veterans
there. Servicepeople rushed around, loudspeakers blared, the bell
for the prescription window kept ringing. It was a whir of activity
and the older veterans sat quietly on the outside seemingly out of
step, patiently waiting to be seen. Nobody was seeing. My old friend
stayed on my mind. I began to pay attention to the military's
attitude towards its veterans. Predominately, I witnessed
indifference: Impatient soldiers and airmen plowing over little old
ladies at the commissary; I noticed my own agitation as an older
couple cornered me at the Officer's Club and began reminiscing about
their tour in Germany. To our disgrace, I have also witnessed
disdain: At Ramstein AB terminal, an airman was condescending and
borderline cruel with a deaf veteran flying Space A; An ancient
woman wearing a WACS button was shoved aside by a cadet at the
Women's Memorial dedication in D.C.; A member of the Color Guard
turned away in disgust from a drunk Vietnam vet trying to talk to
him before the Veterans Day Ceremony at the Vietnam Wall. Have you
been to a ceremony at the Wall lately? How about a Veteran's Day
Parade in a small town? The crowds are growing faint. Why do we
expect the general public to care if we don't? We are getting
comfortable again. Not many of us around that have been forced to
consider making the ultimate sacrifice. Roughly 60% of today's
active duty Air Force did not even participate in DesertStorm. I
always lament about the public's disregard for the military. I do
not count all the days I stayed in bed instead of going to a
ceremony or parade. It was my day to be honored and I deserved to
sleeping. It's just like a 28-year-old, whose weapon was Microsoft
PowerPoint Slide Presentation during the last conflict, to complain
about recognition. Sometimes I wonder who is going to come to our
parades in 20 years; will anybody look me up in the Women's Memorial
Registry? The answer lies in the present. We will be honored as we
honor those who have gone before us. The next generation is
watching. It is not my intention to minimize the selfless service of
our modern military; my comrades are the greatest people I know (and
frankly should be treated better). But, lately I'm wondering if the
public's attitude towards the military isn't just a reflection of
the active duty military's attitude towards its own veterans. It's
time to ask - do we regard them, do we consider them at all? How
does our attitude change when the hero is no longer wearing a
uniform? I was proud to wear my uniform. Can I admit that I thought
I was cool? There is no denying that there is something about our
profession, combined with youth that feeds the ego a little. We have
all seen a young pilot strut into the Officer's Club with his flight
suit on. He matters; he takes on the room; he knows he can take on
the world. But, one day he will leave his jet for a desk, and
eventually he will have to hang up that flight suit. A super hero
hanging up his cape.... How will we measure his value then? He will
no longer look like a pilot, an officer, a colonel. He'll just look
like an old man coming out of the clinic with his prescription. But,
is he less of a hero? Will anybody remember or care about all the
months he spent away from his newborn daughter while making peace a
possibility in the Balkans? Probably not. Our society has a short
memory. Maybe it is not for the protected to understand. Rather, it
is my hope that when a young lieutenant walks by him they will each
see themselves reflected in the other-one's future, the other's
past. In that moment, perhaps, the lieutenant will also see the
hero, now disguised as an old man, and thank him. The truth is there
are heroes in disguise everywhere. I used to wonder why people would
want to chat with me when I was in uniform - telling me about their
four years as a radio operator in Korea. So what? I wasn't impressed
relative to my own experiences. Now I understand that they were
telling me because nobody else cared. Proud of their service, no
matter how limited, and still in love with our country, they were
trying to stay connected. Their stories were code for: I understand
and appreciate you, can you appreciate me? The answer is, yes. I
separated from the Air Force in February. I'm out of the club.
Still, I want you to know that I'll attend the parades, visit the
memorials, and honor you. All this while my kids and your kids are
watching. Then, maybe, someday when I'm an old woman riding the
metro, a young airman will take a moment of her time to listen to
one of my war stories. I, in turn, will soak in her beauty and
strength, and remember. Today, as I reflect on my adventures in the
Air Force, I'm thinking of that ancient warrior I collided with at
Ft Belvoir. I'm wondering where he is, if he's still alive, if it's
too late to thank him. I want to start a campaign in his honor-
Salute A Veteran. What a great world this would be if all our
elderly veterans wore recognition pins, and we would salute them
even if we were out of uniform and saw them coming out of a Seven
Eleven. Yes, this started out as a misunderstanding on my part. But,
now I get it. That day was the first time in my life that I really
understood what it meant to salute someone. Dear Veteran, I
recognize and hail you! I do understand what I have and what you
have given to make it possible. So I'm wondering if we meet on the
street-----may I salute you? Just checking in.Would love to hear from anyone who remembers my
day,John F Floyd 51-55.Dan and Scott you guys are doing a great job.
Keep it up. Greatsite had a blast looking through it Served on the Dirty D
from 1966 to 1969 G Divison with Figge,Ogburn Chief Barker,
Moreno,the Aldrige brothers etc. Went by the nick name Woody. See ya
have a good one. looking for Mike Theathers Iwent aboard the DeHaven after the surrender of Japan. Was on Pc
1180 during WW2 and had re-enlisted during the war. So was
transferred to the DeHaven after the surrender was signed for
reenlistment leave. She was one on the ships escorting the Missouri
back to San Francisco. Was a RM1 and they gave me he job of copying
press and publishing a newspaper on the return trip. I see a Bob
Avery,RM1 listed so will have to get in contact with him. So many
years we don't see many people we know or did know, and memory not
as good as it used to be. Excellent website and thanks to the people
or person keeping it up. Anyone aboard the 469 in year 42 and 43, Dehaven 469, or anyone
served aboard the 477USS pringle please get in touch with Mathew
dymek RT2c tks ship Jan 13/2001 Tks Dear Aron! this is Mathew Dymek from the USS pringle Dd477 and
also Dd469, I can!t wait for a response, I!ve been looking for you
for a very long time. I!ll be waiting. Tks As always Mat dymek RT2c
on the pringle. I served on board the Mansfield 728 "55-'59 and am looking
for H.G. (Skeets) Herring, RD2, who served on board the DeHaven at
about the same time and would like to swap "old war"
stories. Jim Milton RD2 I was on the USS DeHaven with my brother Bob Tesmer My Dad FTSN William W. Davis (1954-1955)....please send
correspondence to my address....thanks. If any of you ex-matelot's from the 727 would like to say G'day
to an ex Australian sailor from the Shoalhaven I would love to hear
from you. We were together in Korea and Japan for a short period
during the begining of the Korean Conflict The last I saw of the De
haven was when you left the Korean waters to escort the.(I think it
was the Bush) back to Sasebo after she was hit by a mine. If my
memory serves me correctly A few of my mates and I had a couple of
sessions with some of you in the wets in Sasebo. Wouldn't mind
hearing from you. Stan Kimberley. MUST SAY YOURS IS ONE OF YHE BEST I HAVE SEEN ON TINCANS. THE
BORIE MADE A MED CRUISE IN 48. THERE IS NOTHING LIKE CROSSING AN
OCEAN ON A DESTROYER KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK,YOU ARE DOING FINE Just found this page. This is great!! This BTFN Jimmy Wilkerson. I was on ship in 1969 until I was sent
to the USS Henry B.Wilson DDG-7 All the best to all my shipmates during this holiday season I am a descendant of the DeHavens of PA HERE IN SARASOTA NOW. WE WILL BE BACK HERE IN APRIL WAITING FOR
BILL AND MARGE WOOD AND CAROL AND GENE HAYNES TO COME DOWN TO GO ON
THE CRUISE. WE WELCOME ANYONE ELSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO STOP IN TO DO
SO. WE WILL LOAD YOUR CAR WITH GRAPEFRUIT. SEE YOU ON THE CRUISE. I am a member of the DeHaven Club. Several years ago I attended
the large DeHaven family reunion in Texas. Whoever you are, you are doing a great job Brings back memories! I served on the De Haven from Sept.,
1950-Sept. 1951, Inchon, etc. I had the Deck Division for a while,
and was First. Lt. when I left. It's been a pleasure to find this
page, and I'd be very glad to hear from old shipmates. Served on the DeHaven in the early 60s. Just a note to let folks know that I live in Lancaster, OHIO, not
Pennslyvania as is indicated in todays Raven DeHave newsletter.Good
to see all the activity on the site and page. Steve BTFN-BT2 58-61 DERORAH FRANZ,I SERVED UNDER CAP. FRANZ,HE WAS THE BEST. I WAS ON
THE USS DEHAVEN 1964-JAN.69 GARY PETERS SORRY SUCH A LONG TIME HOPE
YOU ARE WELL.VALENTINE IS LIVING IN TEX.TIL NEXT TIME I FEEL THE
NEED TO PAINT SOMETHING Hey! Buddy Pilgrim! put your E address in and somebody will
contact you. I tried before, nada. I was a GM striker when you were
aboard. Have you stayed in touch with your good buddy Calvin Cecil
Krause? PILGRIM BM 1964---1967 CALLING ANYONE My dad was aboard this ship during WWII. I am not sure of the
dates but think it was after Pearl Harbor. There he was aboard the
USS Nevada. I would like to find out more about these ships and
people who served on them with my dad. My dad passed about in 1980
but as you can see his memory is still alive. He was a wonderful dad
and person. I just find this whole thing so interesting. Thanks.
jmiller We are a 7th grade social studies class in Odenville, Alabama. We
enjoyed looking at the pictures of the sailors. One of my student's
grandfather was on the USS DeHaven. His name is Frank Watson and we
saw several pictures of him. Great site. Sorry To Have Missed The Reunion, Bremerton Is One Hour Away I
Got The Dates Mixed Up Linked to your site via NAVSOURCE, and the page on the DeHaven.
Good Stuff, really enjoyed the photos. I was a QM3 on the USS
Pensacola (LSD 38), in the 70's. Wish someone from the ol'
Pepsi-Boat would start a site like this...Keep up the good work! I rode the RAVIN'De from (circa) 5/46 - 6/50. She was a
sweetheart and the love of my Navy life. We went into either
Hiroshima or Nagasaki in '46. We rode a typhoon from Tsingtao to
Shanghai. We followed the North China mail run which included Korea.
Frank Jackson, Charlie Robinson, Arnold Singer and CDR Bill
Groverman are some of the names I remember. I was a BM2 in the 1st
division. Any response is welcome. Does anyone remember the baseball
team we had, and played a semi-pro team in Monterey at the Post
Graduate School? Or the night we had ready duty in SDO and LCDR
David A. Lord, XO was taken from the ship and died in Balboa Naval
Hospital? Ah yes, memories good and bad flood my memory. Bill
O'Brien |
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