Guestbook Archives



Thanks for viewing the USS Coral Sea CVA-43 Association Guestbook. Please add to the guestbook if you havent done so yet. You can search this decklog for a name, keyword or anything. Just use the "Find" menu option under Edit or use "ctrl+f".

Wednesday December 31, 2014 - 05:06 PM
Name: Chris Cowan  
Rank/Rate: ABE-2
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 79-82
Location: Tacoma WA
Comments: Happy New Year to all CORAL SEA alums. I have been trying to find IC-2 Dave Taylor from back in the day. Dave was one of our PLAT/LENS guys. If anyone has any info it would be greatly appreciated.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 - 04:19 PM
Name: Dickm Parker  
Rank/Rate: LI#
Division/Squadron: X
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963 till 1965
Location: Mishawaka IN USA
Comments: To all my shipmates HAPPY NEW YEAR
PLEASE REMEMBER THE ONE SERING NOW

Wednesday December 31, 2014 - 02:01 PM
Name: George S Ogan  
Rank/Rate: CS2
Division/Squadron: 2 Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 71-72
Location: Enterprise KS USA
Comments: Had the after (Betty Crocker) bakery on the 71-72 cruise. Loved the ship and the people.

Monday December 29, 2014 - 05:39 PM
Name: Jerry Robershaw  
Rank/Rate: adr-3
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 60-62
Location: Calif
Comments: DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE DAVID CASSADY WHO WAS IN V-2 DIV
YEARS 60-62 PLEASE SEND ME A E-MAIL THANX

Monday December 29, 2014 - 12:53 PM
Name: CHRIS BARRETT  
Rank/Rate: Boiler Tech
Division/Squadron: B
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1988-1990
Location: NY USA
Comments: Merry Christmas, hope everyone is doin well !!!!! The Navy was very good to me, Thanks for the memories!!!!

Sunday December 28, 2014 - 10:31 AM
Name: Claude edd jennings  
Rank/Rate: amh-3
Division/Squadron: vf154
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963
Location: sharps chapel tn united syates
Comments: Golden shellback

Sunday December 28, 2014 - 02:38 AM
Name: Roger Ross  
Rank/Rate: mm3
Division/Squadron: A-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967 to 1971
Location: Bowling Green Ky. USA
Comments: Richard Jackson-its good to see that you are still kicking. I'm not kicking as fast as I use to. Hope you and your family had a good Christmas. Any ides as to what happen to the old gang. john hrbek, dennis helms, bob clark, john iron, billy joe Johnson, William Worley, terry l. Thomas, leon rymer, gary Calhoun. can't remember anymore without getting the cruse book out. Hope all fellow shipmates had a good Christmas and a happy new year

Saturday December 27, 2014 - 07:49 PM
Name: Bob (Not So) Bright  
Rank/Rate: ASH2
Division/Squadron: AIMD
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1972-1973
Location: Huntington Beach CA
Comments: Happy Nes Year to all. Was an honor to serve. God Bless all who have and still serve.

Saturday December 27, 2014 - 05:42 PM
Name: Sharon Vail  
Rank/Rate: AE1
Division/Squadron: N/A
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location:
Comments: Please, I would like to no longer get the Coral Sea Breeze. It has been sent to various members at 815 Mountain View Drive, E. P. Oregon. There is no longer anyone here who has served on the Coral Sea.

Saturday December 27, 2014 - 03:57 PM
Name: Jim Bradley   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: ASE3
Division/Squadron: AIMD
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 72-74
Location:
Comments: Tried to go to the link on the home page to renew/join the association, but the link failed..

Happy Holidays to all you Cora Maruers... Lest we forget...

Saturday December 27, 2014 - 10:58 AM
Name: jim kemmer  
Rank/Rate: HM2
Division/Squadron: Medical
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 82`83
Location: Bayonne New Jersey United States
Comments: Came onboard in Alameda, Ca, couple months before we left for World Cruise 83,great time that I will never forget!

Friday December 26, 2014 - 03:46 PM
Name: Richard Jackson  
Rank/Rate: E-4
Division/Squadron: A-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1971
Location: Ketchikan Alaska USA
Comments: Merry Christmas and well wishes to all.

Thursday December 25, 2014 - 11:44 AM
Name: Daniel Sauceda  
Rank/Rate: AN / E-3
Division/Squadron: V-4 Air Dept
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1972
Location: Deland Fl United States
Comments: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all my shipmates and to all who are presently serving around the world and to all who served. Sauce

Thursday December 25, 2014 - 08:35 AM
Name: James Yotkewich  
Rank/Rate: ABE-3
Division/Squadron: V-2 #2 cat
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-64
Location: West Frankfort ILL> USA
Comments: Merry Christmas to all coral sea ship mates and a happy new year

Thursday December 25, 2014 - 07:40 AM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thonas KY USA
Comments: To all Shipmates:
Merry Christmas!!!
Godspeed!

Wednesday December 24, 2014 - 09:03 PM
Name: Phillip L. Kuhn  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron: E Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 71-72 West Pac
Location: New Orleans Louisiana USA
Comments: Warren R. Lane, Jr, I was aboard the Coral Sea at the time you mentioned. I had befriended one of your fellow Marines. I never did know his name except that he was stationed out of Cherry Point and everyone called him "Gomer". I think he was from either North or South Carolina.

Wednesday December 24, 2014 - 08:51 PM
Name: Dennis Dohrman  
Rank/Rate: E-4
Division/Squadron: b1 1 charlie
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 76-79
Location: columbia il usa
Comments: Merry christmas to all, and all a good night.

Wednesday December 24, 2014 - 05:28 PM
Name: Robert Nerbetski  
Rank/Rate: an
Division/Squadron: v-1-h
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1952-1953
Location: East Rutherford NJ USA
Comments: Merry Christmas to all Shipmates who served on the Coral Sea And a Healthy and Happy New Year to all.

Bob Nerbetski

Wednesday December 24, 2014 - 08:25 AM
Name: David Lyng  
Rank/Rate: ETR 3
Division/Squadron: OE
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): '70-74
Location: Brandon South Dakota USA
Comments: I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Tuesday December 23, 2014 - 11:54 AM
Name: Ken Matson  
Rank/Rate: ADJ3
Division/Squadron: VA-22
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Sutter Creek CA USA
Comments: I was the VA-22 power plants troubleshooter/final checker. My "ears" on the flight deck said HAM BONE on one side. Long story. Audio from this site is from the cruise I was on. Is there any way to get a copy of that?

Monday December 22, 2014 - 09:44 PM
Name: jim gannon  
Rank/Rate: adj 3
Division/Squadron: va 153
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1965 & 1967
Location: cleveland ohio cuyahoga
Comments: I was attached to V A 153 and made a 1966 cruise aboard the U S S Constellation C V 64

Monday December 22, 2014 - 08:34 PM
Name: Warren R. Lane, Jr.  
Rank/Rate: Sergeant
Division/Squadron: VMA (AW)-224
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Sevierville Tennessee USA
Comments: Just wanted to make another comment. While I was visiting my parents in McDonough, GA, I happened to look up and see a crawler from FOX news that CAG-15, Commander Dunlop's body had been found in Vietnam and returned to the US for burial. I don't know if his BN was ever found. His Bombardier/Navigator was Capt. David B. Williams and they were flying one of our A-6's. When we got stateside I bought a POW/MIA bracelet from Capt. Williams' wife and wore it every day until it cracked so I put it up to forever remember CAG-15 and Capt. Williams. I served aboard the Coral Sea during the westpac cruise of '71 - '72 with Marine All Weather Attack Squadron 224 out of Cherry Point, NC. I made Sgt. (E-5) during the cruise. I also remember laying aerial mines on Haiphong Harbor and hearing of the sinking of the Russian frigate in the harbor which brought SECNAV aboard the ship. I also remember when Major Clyde Smith was shot down in one of our A-6's. He finally got picked up and returned to the Coral Sea. There was a History Channel interview with Major Smith that I happened to see a few years ago. Also, if anyone remembers, there was a Reader's Digest article about our mining of Haiphong harbor which came out sometime in late 1972. I have that article somewhere, but cannot prenently find it. Anyone remember the SOS (Stop Our Ship) movement that took place during our cruise? I thought it was pure BS. I cannot believe it was over forty years ago that we sailed into the history books. I still have my cruise book and salute all the members of our ship. I remember VA 94, VA 22, which flew the A-7's, VF 151 and VF 111, which flew the F-4 Phantoms. I also remember VAQ 135 and the lessor squadrons that only had 1 or 2 planes in them. I'm now 64 or will be in Jan. 2015. My, my, my how time flies by.

Monday December 22, 2014 - 06:49 PM
Name: Warren R. Lane, Jr.  
Rank/Rate: Sgt
Division/Squadron: VMA (AW)-224
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Sevierville Tennessee USA
Comments: I served aboard the USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) from September 1971 through August 1972 during the west PAC cruise. I was a member of Marine All Weather Attack Squadron 224. I made Sgt. aboard the Coral Sea.

W. Rusty Lane (Sgt. USMC)

Monday December 22, 2014 - 01:34 PM
Name: Thomas F. Coy  
Rank/Rate: PO-3/ASM
Division/Squadron: I-M 3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1974-1978
Location: Santa Maria Ca. USA
Comments: Just wondering how many of us from the shop are still kicking. Spent 18 years in the Army National Guard (1991-2008) field artillery. Retired in 2008 after deployment to Iraq.

Saturday December 20, 2014 - 12:52 AM
Name: Phillip Kuhn  
Rank/Rate: FN
Division/Squadron: E- Upper Deck Lighting
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: New Orleans Louisiana USA
Comments: Daniel L. Johnson , I was on board when you were and you were right on for some of the happenings. Yes the A-7 was coming in to low and it sheared off it's landing gear and the pilot did eject sideways into his chute. He did get tangled in it and drowned. The helo spotted and retrieved the body the next morning and they placed the body in the walk-in cooler that held the milk and stuff. I was working in Pri-Fly and I took care of the flight deck lights. One time at sea the red lights on the back of the carrier which helped the pilots line up for the landing burned out. I had to go over the side while at sea and change the bulbs but first I had to get permission from the bridge so they could tell the fan tail watch taht I was not commiting suicide but fixing the lights. And you were correct on that fella jumping off the ship when we were leaving Subic Bay he was in E division and I don't remember his name but that Filipino gal put something on him and he fell in love with it. He jumped close to Grandy Island (not sure of the spelling) and was swimming to shoare. They launched the rescue helo and the rescue swimmer had to chase the guy as he kept swimming away from the rescue swimmer. Daniel do you remember one night about 0130 hours when general quarters sounded and they said it was not a drill. The scuttle butt had that a missile was shot at the Coral Sea from somewhere and it was about a foot off the water when one of the escorts picked it up and the ship turned hard (very hard) to port and went to flank speed. The old girl listed and I do believe that one could have laid on the flight deck and slapped the water on that turn and the old girl was shaking getting up to flank speed but she hauled ass.

Thursday December 18, 2014 - 10:45 AM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thomas KY USA
Comments: Attention all Shipmates:
I have 5 of the calendar books that were giveaway items at the Nashville reunion that I want to ge to whoever wants them. Please send me a message if you're interested in them. I'd like to get $5.00 each to cover their cost & mailing. Look forward to hearing from you all.
Godspeed!

Wednesday December 17, 2014 - 08:32 AM
Name: JERRY ROBERSHAW  
Rank/Rate: ADR-3
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 60-62
Location: SAN BERNARDINO CALIF USA
Comments: JOHN CLARK V-2
SEND ME A E-MAIL, AS MINE IS CORRECT
I SENT YOU A COUPLE OF MESSAGES BUT NEVER
GOT THE E-MAIL FROM YOU HAVE A BLESSED
DAY AND WILL TALK LATER

JERRY R 60-62

Monday December 15, 2014 - 09:31 AM
Name: Jack Brennan   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: FT!
Division/Squadron: Gunnery
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1954-55
Location: nyc ny
Comments: Experiences??? Those Years were better than a College Education!

Monday December 08, 2014 - 07:34 AM
Name: Henry A. McCormick  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location:
Comments: Note, Kevin Cobb, found a navy ring in dinwiddle, va metal detecting, with this info. on it. L E Y 73, WITH THE # 43 on it. A picture is on my Facebook page. Mack, CVA-19 ,1961-64. A picture was sent to the U S N FB page. Smooth SAILING

Sunday December 07, 2014 - 04:23 PM
Name: Dave Chandler  
Rank/Rate: DP2
Division/Squadron: S7
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1981-1982
Location: Ocala Fl USA
Comments: Miss the Ole Girl, wish I could walk the flight deck on more time.

Friday December 05, 2014 - 08:32 PM
Name: Fred Lockard  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron: Vi , V 3 ,B
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1964 - 1967
Location: Blue Jay CA USA
Comments: I loved the lady. Best carrier the USA ever had in the history of our navy .

Friday December 05, 2014 - 01:55 AM
Name: CARL BARBEE  
Rank/Rate: YN3
Division/Squadron: ADMIN
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1982-1985
Location: LONG BEACH CA UNITED STATES
Comments: A GREAT SHIP AND A EXPERIENCE I WILL NEVER FORGET

Wednesday December 03, 2014 - 07:15 AM
Name: Jerry Collier  
Rank/Rate: RD3
Division/Squadron: OI
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-69
Location: CROSSVILLE TN USA
Comments: Hi, for all that were in Nashville, I just wanted to post that I am doing well after the fall in the Holiday Inn parking lot and breaking my hip. Doc screwed me back together and I am on my way to full recovery. It has been 2 months since surgery and I am walking so it won't be too long before this incident will just be a memory. Thanks to all my shipmates that have checked on my recovery process and helped my wife Sandy with arrangements that had been made previously.

Tuesday December 02, 2014 - 01:33 PM
Name: John Clark  
Rank/Rate: ADJ3
Division/Squadron: V-2 /VA153
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1959-1962
Location: Kanab Utah USA
Comments: Jerry sorry I'm a little slow in answering your email, I did look for you after the banquet at the reunion. It was great to see you and Smitty, it's been a long time since we shipmates.

Monday December 01, 2014 - 05:08 PM
Name: John Baxter  
Rank/Rate: Airman
Division/Squadron: V-4 V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969-1972
Location: Marion ILL USA
Comments: It was a great reunion in Nashville , saw so many shipmates have not seen for over forty years,reliving our sea stories and ports of interest !

Sunday November 30, 2014 - 10:38 AM
Name: james yotkewich  
Rank/Rate: abe-3
Division/Squadron: v-2 div.#2 cat
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-64
Location: west frankfort ill. usa
Comments: To all of my old v-2 buddies wish I could have made it to the reunion. good luck

Saturday November 29, 2014 - 09:07 AM
Name: Jerry Robershaw  
Rank/Rate: ADR-3
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 60-62
Location: San Bernardino Calif USA
Comments: Was at the reunion in TN. and saw a lot of guys I have not seen in
many years. Talked to John Clark for a few minute and after dinner
did not see him again. If you read this send me a e-mail as the one
on your name on the list is wrong. Will go again 2 years as it will
be in San Diego about 100 miles from home. Everyone have a blessed
day

ROBY Jerry R V-2 Div 60-62

Monday November 24, 2014 - 12:31 PM
Name: Robert Nerbetski  
Rank/Rate: A N
Division/Squadron: V ! H
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1952-1953
Location: East Rutherford NJ USA
Comments: Shipmate Jack Weber passed away on November 16th Jack was the treasure when I joined the association , He was a good friend and he Will be missed


Bob Nerbetski

Sunday November 23, 2014 - 09:16 AM
Name: Mark Jennings  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: Rome New York U.S.A.
Comments: I did not know how to post this information so I figured this was the best place. I just want to let the forum know that my Dad Louis T. Jennings passed away on 21 June 2013. He was 83. My Dad was a plank owner and left the ship in I believe 1951. He was assigned to "E" Division. Thank you. Mark.

Monday November 17, 2014 - 08:20 PM
Name: Les Bales  
Rank/Rate: FN3
Division/Squadron: Lighting shop
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969/1970
Location: crown point Indiana USA
Comments: My Girl

Wednesday November 12, 2014 - 11:14 AM
Name: Alvin C Berry  
Rank/Rate: PO1/ E6
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1953-1956
Location: Medfield Massachusetts USA
Comments: My Dad had many great stories about his time on the Coral Sea. He Past on 3/1/13 at age 82 and right up till the end we could always get him to crack a smile when talking about his time on board. He was so proud of his ship and the crew and officers he served with. He took care of keeping most if not all of the air conditioning and refrigeration functioning on the ship and occasionally when checking the Captains AC unit in his quarters would catch a glimpse of some TV (the only one on board) or some photos of the ship from the photo lab and even an extra scoop of ice cream from the mess. Even though she is long gone she remains "The Ageless Warrior" in the minds of so many including my Dad. My sincerest regards to all who served. His son Steven

Tuesday November 11, 2014 - 12:16 PM
Name: Patrick MacNish  
Rank/Rate: OSSN
Division/Squadron: Operations
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1989-1990
Location: Oak Island North Carolina USA
Comments: Hello shipmates! I am proud to have served on this fine ship! A lot of history. I remember an OS2 Jernigan and a few others. Hope all are well...........

Tuesday November 11, 2014 - 08:35 AM
Name: Robert D. Gill  
Rank/Rate: MN2
Division/Squadron: G
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Billerica MA. Middlsex
Comments: Happy Veteran's Day to all veterans. I will always remember my time on CVA-43 in bomb assembly with Aviation ordnancemen on the ships last combat cruise off Vietnam.

Tuesday November 11, 2014 - 08:32 AM
Name: Doug Bainbridge  
Rank/Rate: Sgt.
Division/Squadron: Marine Detachment
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1986-1988
Location: Roscoe IL USA
Comments: Happy Veteran's Day! Also, belated Happy Marine Corps Birthday! Just looking to find any members of The MARDET.

Tuesday November 11, 2014 - 07:58 AM
Name: Tom evansco  
Rank/Rate: Pn3
Division/Squadron: Eso
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1986-1990
Location: Webb city Mo USA
Comments: Happy Veterans Day! Feeling really weird today remembering all the times on and off the boat. Bless you all and thanks for serving on the ageless warrior!!!

Monday November 10, 2014 - 02:25 AM
Name: Roger Ross  
Rank/Rate: mm3
Division/Squadron: A-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 10-67 to 4-71
Location: Bowling Green Ky. USA
Comments: Hello fellow shipmates. hope everyone had a good VETERANS DAY. I had built a mini tractor trailer and drove it in the bowling green VETRANS DAY PARADE. On the trailer I had a bill board with the Ross military history. The USS CORAL SEA was listed twice on the bill board. Had a good time. Its been over 40 years and I still miss the old girl. Good health to everyone. ROGER

Sunday November 09, 2014 - 09:03 PM
Name: doughiddleson   No Email Address
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location:
Comments: went on the midway museum with duce defoe from 3 Charlie talked to the red hats and they let us go down in to the space ,,,,,not on the tour thanks so mutch to the people who donate there time!!!!! looking for d.a.coppock dm ford cp Drummond jr marcott rd Knutson gl[waste]Maddox smith from down south anyone that made steam three able,baker,charlie ect,,,CAT DRAGS!!!!!

Sunday November 09, 2014 - 07:33 PM
Name: doug hiddleson  
Rank/Rate: bt
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1974 1976
Location: albany or usa
Comments: trying to find old palls

Thursday November 06, 2014 - 07:41 AM
Name: Martin (Marty) Ort  
Rank/Rate: ADJ3
Division/Squadron: V6
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1965- 1967
Location: Charlotte Hall MD. USA.
Comments: I just notice the other day I needed adjust may rate because of a type o.
Not that anyone cares. There is no ADJ4.

Saturday November 01, 2014 - 10:13 AM
Name: Rob Marson  
Rank/Rate: 5 Star Admiral
Division/Squadron: The M0B33RS
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1948 - 1989
Location: Calgary Alberta Canada
Comments: I just wanted to add that I met some of the crew back in 1988, I believe it was, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I was given a tour of your beautiful ship and she was very impressive. The only other Aircraft Carrier I was ever on was Canada's last Carrier, The HMCS Bonaventure, affectionately known as The "Bonnie". I remember when The Coral Sea was docking at pier 28 I believe and her flight deck hit the top of the storage building. We all had a good laugh. Thanks to the crew for showing me around.

Wednesday October 29, 2014 - 07:55 AM
Name: Martin (Marty) Ort  
Rank/Rate: ADJ4
Division/Squadron: V6
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 65-67
Location: Charlotte Hall MD. USA.
Comments: While on the Coal Sea as an Adj4, (working on yellow gear,I never asked but always wondered what those long antennas were that were on the sides of the ship and were either in the horizontal position or vertical. Could somebody help me out?

Monday October 27, 2014 - 08:35 PM
Name: Robert Whitfield  
Rank/Rate: E-3
Division/Squadron: V-3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969-1970
Location: McDonough Georgia U.S.A.
Comments: I served aboard the Coral Sea in 69-70 and have a question for any crew member separated while the ship was at Hunters Point. The records facility in St.Louis does not have any medical records for my service period and can offer no explanation where they might be. I believe medical and service records might have been removed from the ship while in dry dock and stored ashore in Hunters Point. I separated very soon after arrival from the 69-70 West Pac. If any crew member attached to Medical during this time period does in fact know records were not kept aboard ship during this time frame please contact me. If any former crew member has had problems with lost medical or service records please contact me at RJW4750@yahoo.com Thanks for everyones service!

Thursday October 23, 2014 - 09:43 PM
Name: Rachel  
Rank/Rate: N/A
Division/Squadron: N/A
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): N/A
Location: Los Angeles CA U.S.A.
Comments: Curious to know if anyone around here served with a man named Joseph S. (Joe) Parsons during the Vietnam conflict. He was an aircraft mechanic, I believe. I'm sorry I don't have dates or his rank. He was a slight man with an unpleasant attitude, from what I've been told. Thank you.

Tuesday October 21, 2014 - 05:40 PM
Name: Timothy Frank Thomas  
Rank/Rate: pnsne3
Division/Squadron: personel
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1977-1981
Location: leslie ARkasa us
Comments: seeing if any one was on board around 77-82

Friday October 17, 2014 - 01:32 PM
Name: Michael David Cavalier  
Rank/Rate: RM2
Division/Squadron: CR Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1978 to 1983
Location: Alameda Ca & Norfolk Va CA & VA United States
Comments: I was Stationed there 5 years .. 2 west Pac's & a world cruise .. BKA CAV

Wednesday October 15, 2014 - 07:00 AM
Name: H.J. Bjorgo "BJ"  
Rank/Rate: AMS1
Division/Squadron: AIMD/ IM2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1985 -1986
Location: Ripley Oklahoma USA
Comments: I have enjoyed looking at al the name and actually remember some.

Monday October 13, 2014 - 10:03 PM
Name: Doug DuShane  
Rank/Rate: ET3
Division/Squadron: OE Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1962 1964
Location: Negaunee Mi. USA
Comments: General Quarters called on way to Alameda after 8 months in West PAc when Pres Kennedy was shot. Not sure what was going to happen. Ran aground in San Fran. Bay, Capt. Roemer was relieved of Command after that fiasco.

Monday October 13, 2014 - 11:33 AM
Name: Kirk Natho  
Rank/Rate: SM4
Division/Squadron: Comm
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1989-1990
Location: Norfolk Virginia USA
Comments: Transferred to USS Carl Vinson at the start of decommisioning process.

Monday October 13, 2014 - 08:19 AM
Name: Greg Hawke  
Rank/Rate: BT2
Division/Squadron: B Div. 4 Charlie
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 67-70
Location: Hales Corners Wis
Comments: Hi Charles Cline, Good to see you are still around. Hope you are well. I was at the Nashville reunion a couple weeks ago and there was someone else there you might remember, Jay Johnson, was in the Oil Shack and 3 Baker, 3 Charlie. We had a good time talking about those days.
Do you have an email address? Drop me a line sometime.

Saturday October 11, 2014 - 10:46 AM
Name: Russell Neal Rozelle  
Rank/Rate: ET2
Division/Squadron: OE
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1979-1982
Location: Lakewood CA USA
Comments: Great ship, great shipmates.

Friday October 10, 2014 - 11:37 PM
Name: Charles W. Cline   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): Oct. 1967 -- April 1971
Location: Baisden West Virginia America
Comments: Been some time since I last posted on this page. Glad to see some names I recognized on here. Greg Hawke from 4Charlie and Rudolph Beacham from 4 able? I worked in both 4 Able and 4 Baker. Good times and bad times, Hope everyone is doing okay.God bless.

Monday October 06, 2014 - 06:34 PM
Name: Bob Braun  
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B- 4Able
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1976-1979
Location: Cresent Springs KY USA
Comments: Had a great time in Nashville. Greg Steele I'm sorry I missed seeing you there.
I had to leave early Saturday. If all goes well I hope to see you next year.

Monday October 06, 2014 - 06:29 AM
Name: Greg Steele  
Rank/Rate: BT/3
Division/Squadron: 4Charlie B div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1973-1977
Location: estill springs tn US
Comments: just had the time of my life in Nashville Doc, Mike I love you guys looking forward till next year

Sunday October 05, 2014 - 08:32 AM
Name: Martin J Becker  
Rank/Rate: AZ2
Division/Squadron: AIMD/IM-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1974
Location: St Louis Missouri USA
Comments: Deployed on 2 Westpac cruises.

Saturday October 04, 2014 - 04:40 PM
Name: R.L.bEACHAM  
Rank/Rate: BT-3
Division/Squadron: BR
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1965-67
Location: Chocowinity North Carolina Beaufort
Comments: Love to here from anyone that was on ship at that time

Friday October 03, 2014 - 07:23 PM
Name: Kenneth Shirley  
Rank/Rate: AE3
Division/Squadron: VA-82
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969-1970
Location: Homerville Ga USA
Comments: Best group to serve with VA-82. Glad I came across this site.

Tuesday September 30, 2014 - 04:34 AM
Name: Roger Ross  
Rank/Rate: mm3
Division/Squadron: A-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 10-67 to 4-71
Location: bowling green ky. usa
Comments: Fellow shipmates, I live less than an hour from Nashville. I want to drive down on sat. for the banquet and to see everybody. can anyone tell me what time the banquet starts. I hope to bring the last set of colors flown on the USS CORAL SEA. thanks roger

Sunday September 28, 2014 - 09:45 AM
Name: Dave "Big Ben" Bolt  
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: GM
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-67
Location: Geneva IL USA
Comments: This is a great site and I check it out several times a week (what else does and old retired do with his time), but I also check out WWW.usscoralsea.net for additional info. Between both sites I have learned so much more about the Coral Maru.

Tuesday September 23, 2014 - 04:58 PM
Name: Stanley Lambert  
Rank/Rate: HM3
Division/Squadron: Medical
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Missouri City Texas USA
Comments: I was a Hospital Corpsman and served on the ship during the Viet Nam deployment from 1971-72. I would like to know what awards the ship received during that deployment.

Monday September 22, 2014 - 04:06 PM
Name: THOMAS ZMIJEWSKI  
Rank/Rate: CS2
Division/Squadron: S2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963-1966
Location: PLAINVILLE CT USA
Comments: THE OPRY TICKETS HAVE BEEN CLAIMED. THANKS FOR, YOUR CONSIDERATIONS.

Saturday September 20, 2014 - 08:38 PM
Name: leroy Hall  
Rank/Rate: flagman
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963-5
Location: pennsylvania usa
Comments: searching for this shipmate

Thursday September 18, 2014 - 05:10 AM
Name: THOMAS ZMIJEWSKI  
Rank/Rate: CS2
Division/Squadron: S2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963-1966
Location: PLAINVILLE CT USA
Comments: HI SHIPMATES. IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON ATTENDING THE REUNION IN NASHVILLE THIS YEAR, I HAVE TWO TICKETS TO THE GRAND OL OPRY SHOW ON FRIDAY EVENING. THEY ARE FOR THE SECOND ROW ON THE LEFT. ONE OF OUR GROUP HAS HAD TO CANCEL DUE TO HEALTH REASONS. WE WILL SELL THEM AT FACE VALUE. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT MUFFINPAIR@AIM.COM, OR SEE ME AT THE REUNION.

Wednesday September 17, 2014 - 11:13 AM
Name: richard lankford  
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: R division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1976 1978
Location: santa rosa ca
Comments: seeing if anybody from r division is out there during the years 1976 1978

Sunday September 14, 2014 - 10:48 AM
Name: Martin (Marty) Ort  
Rank/Rate: ADJ4
Division/Squadron: V-6
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 65-67
Location: Charlotte Hall MD. USA.
Comments: I am looking for shipmates I worked in V-6 Division. There is one guy in particular (last name Payton) who I believe was an electrical guy in our Division. We were both under 21 so we could not go to bars in the USA. We went to different places and did things so as to not get in trouble. He was a great guy and I would like to hear from him.

Thursday September 11, 2014 - 12:03 PM
Name: bruce butler  
Rank/Rate: DT2
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1959-1961
Location:
Comments: Blue water veterans like me, agent orange exposure- An exception has been made due to waters offshore of Vietnam during the Vietnam Era for non-Hodgkins lymphoma. This is the only exception I have heard of

Thursday September 11, 2014 - 08:42 AM
Name: Jeffrey Young (youngster)  
Rank/Rate: GMG3
Division/Squadron: G2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1987-1990
Location: BRANDENBURG KENTUCKY U.S.A
Comments: Looking forward to maybe finding some old shipmates.

Monday September 08, 2014 - 09:36 PM
Name: Everette Ernest (Ernie) Booe Jr  
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1970-1971
Location: rancho santa margarita ca usa
Comments: served aboard 70 to 71 work station fireroom 2A. Ship was in dry dock at Hunters point at the time.

Sunday September 07, 2014 - 10:38 AM
Name: alfred e rosemark (rosie)  
Rank/Rate: abe3
Division/Squadron: v2 cat 3 2 & 1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1970-1974
Location: elba new york usa
Comments: topside petty office on cat 3

Sunday September 07, 2014 - 10:04 AM
Name: Wendell G Newell  
Rank/Rate: Airman
Division/Squadron: V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1962-1964
Location: Bridgewater MA USA
Comments: Looking forward to hearing from my fellow shipmates...

Saturday September 06, 2014 - 10:21 AM
Name: James Bucklew  
Rank/Rate: PR3
Division/Squadron: Aimd
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1981-1985
Location: Bowling Green Kentucky United States
Comments: Hello to everyone.
I hope to find some old ship buddies.
Bucky from Kentucky

Thursday September 04, 2014 - 02:41 PM
Name: Joan Marks  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1959-1963
Location: Long Beach CA USA
Comments: A dear friend passed away in 2011. I have his year books from the USS Coral Sea
and would like to pass them on to your association. How may I do this?

Thursday September 04, 2014 - 12:24 PM
Name: John Aldrich  
Rank/Rate: AO2
Division/Squadron: VA95
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1977
Location: Orting Wa USA
Comments: Made the 77 cruise with VA 95 out of Whidbey Island.

Thursday September 04, 2014 - 08:16 AM
Name: Marc Remhof  
Rank/Rate: AMH-3
Division/Squadron: VA-94
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1972-1973 & 1973
Location: Inver Grove Heights MN United States
Comments: I think today's picture (9-04-2014) is the F-6F Hellcat. Thank you for starting my day off on the right foot with the "Picture of the Day"!

Monday September 01, 2014 - 01:06 PM
Name: Brian Paradis ( BC )  
Rank/Rate: ABE 3
Division/Squadron: V 2 Cat,s 3 & 2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968 1973
Location: Burlington CT U.S.A.
Comments: Hi shipmates the October reunion is just next month in Nashville TN. If you can find it in your means to attend the reunion please do so. A bunch of us old guys attended the Washington D.C. reunion and had a wonderful time. Tom Pukalski has contacted many old shipmates and continues to work on getting as many as he can to attend. You wont regret making the trip and sharing sea stories and some of your past 40 + years with some truly great shipmates. Look forward to seeing you in Nashville.

Brian Paradis ( B C )

Sunday August 31, 2014 - 07:39 PM
Name: David Bolt  
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: GM
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-1967
Location: Geneva Il USA
Comments: BB Stackers never make the same mistake twice.

Saturday August 30, 2014 - 09:29 AM
Name: Dave Wilson  
Rank/Rate: AT3
Division/Squadron: IM3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1983-1986
Location: Pa USA
Comments: Ships company for 2.5 years. Still Married to Command Master Venable's daughter :)

Friday August 22, 2014 - 03:00 PM
Name: Daniel Williams  
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1977-1980
Location: Highland Michigan USA
Comments: Looking for those that made the 79-80 West Pac cruise

Wednesday August 20, 2014 - 08:17 PM
Name: Alvin H Mitchell  
Rank/Rate: AN
Division/Squadron: HC-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-67
Location: Hudson Wyoming United States
Comments: Only made one cruise on her. Cross decked to the Enterprise,spent a month TAD at Cubi point. One thing I remember, it could throw more crap in the air, faster than the Enterprise ever did.

Monday August 18, 2014 - 03:04 PM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div..
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thomas KY USA
Comments: Attention shiopmates:
The 2014 reunion in Nashville is fast apporaching. PLEASE make your reservations now. See the registration info in the latest issue of "Sea Breeze" on this website. Also make your reservations now for the tours. This info is also in the same issue of "Sea Breeze". One more reservation is needed for the Nashville city tour. the other tours and the Grand Old Opry are all guaranteed. Seating for the Opry is near center, mezzanine level.
See you all in Music city USA.
Godspeed!

Friday August 15, 2014 - 11:14 AM
Name: Greg Hawke  
Rank/Rate: BT2
Division/Squadron: B Div - 4 Charlie
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-1970
Location: Hales Corners WIS
Comments: Just wanted to do a shout out to all the B Division guys from 67-70.
Post something on here so we know you're still around.
Hope to see some of you guys in Nashville.
Jay and John, I know I'll see you guys there.

Hawkeye

Monday August 11, 2014 - 05:35 AM
Name: nicholas Rao  
Rank/Rate: AN
Division/Squadron: V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1955 to 1957
Location: BROOKLYN NY
Comments: WENT ABORD A17 YEAROLD KID AND BE CAME A MAN IT WAS THE BEST TIME OF MY 76YEARS ON THIS WORLD ALL OF MY SHIPMATES WEARE THE BEST FRINDS A KID COULD HAVE GROWN UP

Sunday August 10, 2014 - 01:43 PM
Name: Joe Hoesley  
Rank/Rate: HM3
Division/Squadron: X Div Pers Office
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1962-1963
Location: LaCrosse Wisconsin USA
Comments: I was looking at some of the posts and recognized some of the names, Hap Litzell, Chuck Bell and a Chris Hawley. I transferred off and went to Hosp. Corp. School in 1963. Some of the guys I remember were Roberts, Costello, Hamm, Westergreen, melton, Dempsey,Tom, Ens. Huemiller, Currnan, Curah, Div officer Harrison, Francois, Dick Carr, Hailey Ens. Thorpe, Corley, Bob print shop. Probably more but these are the names I recall. Enjoyed the Pers office, worked with ID and Liberty cards, leave papers etc. Shit pot of filing and typing but not bad.

Tuesday August 05, 2014 - 03:25 AM
Name: dave salmons   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: E-3
Division/Squadron: S2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1986-1989
Location:
Comments: I would like to find the guys from my old division

Sunday August 03, 2014 - 08:32 PM
Name: Ray Lynn Killian  
Rank/Rate: E-3
Division/Squadron: Deck 1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1978-1979
Location: Bakersfield Ca USA
Comments: I enjoyed my time on the ship,boy was it a crazy time in my life.I'd sure like to touch base with some of my old friends.Tom Myers,Herbert Weeks,Scott Lewis,Shoeman and many others.

Wednesday July 30, 2014 - 03:25 PM
Name: Dan L Johnson  
Rank/Rate: SN Yeoman
Division/Squadron: 3rd Division/ Deck Department
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): Jan.1971 to Jan. 1973
Location: Tombstone Arizona USA
Comments: I have Over 20 Shipmates from the Coral Sea that have Copies of My Filming on DVD's of the Cruise of 1971-1972. The Filming Consists of UNREPS, FLIGHT OPS, LIBERTY IN HONG KONG, JAPAN and On Base in Subic Walking up to Cubi Point and Taxi Ride back to the Ship. 2 STAND DOWN DAYS, WATER SKIING with the CAPTAIN'S GIG. Then Back Home to San Francisco and Passing the Uss Enterprise CVN-65. All I need is Your Mailing Address if You want Copies. Still Shots are Great but Film in Motion Really Brings Back Memories. Send Me E-mail to let Me know. MY GIFT TO MY SHIPMATES.

Tuesday July 29, 2014 - 09:22 AM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thomas KY. USA
Comments: Today is the 47th. anniversary of the very tragic fire aboard USS Forrestal CVA-59. 134 members of that great ships crew perished as well as many more were seriously injured. Please remember these Sailors.
Godspeed!

Friday July 25, 2014 - 10:40 AM
Name: JERRY CONNELLY  
Rank/Rate: AG2
Division/Squadron: 0A
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 61-63
Location: SALVISA KY USA
Comments: CHECKED THE GUESTBOOK AND FOUND ROBERT RICHARD A SHIPMATE WHILON THE CORAL SEA THE SAME TIME THAT I WAS THERE, ITRIED TO EMAIL YOU BUT IT MUST NOT GOT THOUGH. IF YOU CHECH BACK IN EMAIL ME. HOPE TO MAKE IT TO THE REUNION.

Tuesday July 22, 2014 - 10:13 AM
Name: Martin Wall   No Email Address
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location:
Comments: worked in m-1 division, (main control),from '79-'80. At sea 102 days in Persian Gulf,during Iran's taking of hostages,and the subsequent debacle that was attempted...Had we resolved the problem,then AND NOW,peace on earth shall reign,for a thousand years.....

Saturday July 19, 2014 - 06:37 PM
Name: Robert Richmond  
Rank/Rate: AG2
Division/Squadron: OA Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-1963
Location: St Augustine Florida
Comments: Remember when we were off of viet nam and they painted all of the ship or origen insignia white. The only numbers that were visible were the three on the front of the plane used for handeling the plane. They loaded bombs on those planes for two or three days

Friday July 18, 2014 - 06:10 PM
Name: carol berridge  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: perth west australia australia
Comments: i really enjoy keeping an eye on you old salts. anybody know carl a collins served aboard 1975-76 possibly longer. any help would be appreciated.
thank you. email available.

Friday July 18, 2014 - 02:47 PM
Name: william larry daniel  
Rank/Rate: e-3
Division/Squadron: s-6
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-1964
Location: youngsville nv usa
Comments: been a long time since i had logged in. anyone every get in touch with william perry cranford111?

Friday July 18, 2014 - 11:32 AM
Name: Michael McGee  
Rank/Rate: BT2
Division/Squadron: Oil Lab 1 Charley Fireroom
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1975-1980, 1983-1985
Location: Atwater Ca USA
Comments: Hi everyone I am still a Boiler Operator one of the last still operating boilers. I am looking for A school training material because there are no more BT's left. And these boys are just stupid. We have to start from scratch and with our work load as A Boiler operator/Mechanic there is no time to hold their hand. I need a self pace BT A School course so I can some how teach these kids something. We are already short handed so on the job training is not working. These kids have no mechanical experience. I would appreciate any help to set up a course to train the unmaintainable to become Boiler Operators. The schools here just take their money and teach them nothing they can use. The rating is dieing and boiler Operators cannot be found unless they are over 50 years old. So if anyone has practical useable ideas please send me a email.

Monday July 14, 2014 - 08:49 AM
Name: JIM LEBLANC "CAJUN"  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1865-1969
Location: BELFAIR WASHINGTON USA
Comments: HELLO TO ALL MY PAST MATES ! THINK OF YOU OFTEN ** WISHING FOR A NORTHWEST REUNION PLACES
BREMERTON -EVERTT=BANGOR-KEYPORT PLENTY OF SHIPS AND NAVAL PERSONAL UP HERE

Monday July 14, 2014 - 06:38 AM
Name: Lee Haines  
Rank/Rate: LCpl
Division/Squadron: MarDet
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1988-1989
Location: Maryville TN
Comments: Looking forward to the reunion in Nashville.

Sunday July 13, 2014 - 12:51 PM
Name: Alexander Rinderle  
Rank/Rate: AE2
Division/Squadron: IM-3 Div. AIMD
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1973-1976
Location: Glendora Ca. USA
Comments: Made 2 cruises on this ship

Friday July 11, 2014 - 09:40 PM
Name: John Hubbard  
Rank/Rate: HM3
Division/Squadron: Medical
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1983-1985
Location: Bentonville AR USA
Comments: I was a Corpsman on board from when we left San Francisco for the 83 World Cruise (Shellback experience) through the dry dock in Portsmouth, VA, and discharged just after returning from the collision with the Ecuadorian tanker ship Napo. What some days to remember. The World Cruise was AWESOME! I sure miss it, all the friends/shipmates and hated to see her scrapped. I got to visit the USS Midway (docked as a museum) in San Diego in 2010 and she really brought back some memories. Would like to hear from anyone in the Medical Department or any of the other friends I made on the USS Coral Sea.

Friday July 11, 2014 - 06:34 PM
Name: Dennis D Day  
Rank/Rate: AME3
Division/Squadron: VA-95
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1976-1977
Location: El Mirage Arizona United States
Comments: Worked on the flight deck on the LOX crew(Liquid Oxygen for aircraft.

Friday July 11, 2014 - 11:52 AM
Name: J Steven Haibach   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: AMS2
Division/Squadron: VA 94
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 71,72,73
Location: Moorpark CA USA
Comments: Was aboard for the 71/72 and 73 westpac cruises in airframe shop for first cruise and final checker on flight deck and CDI inspector for last cruise.

Wednesday July 09, 2014 - 01:14 PM
Name: Tim Shalk  
Rank/Rate: SN
Division/Squadron: S-3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-67
Location: San Ramon CA USA
Comments: Would love to hear from anyone who knew me on the 66/67 Westpac cruise. I left the Coral Sea in June 67 to go to Corps School and became a Navy Corpsman. Also went through "Green" side training at Camp Pendleton, then on to a tour at the NAVHOSP Oakland,CA, and finally a tour as a Battalion Corpsman with the Seabees...USNMCB10 - discharged in in 1970 as an HM2......

Hope to make Nashville, would be a great

TIM

Friday July 04, 2014 - 01:21 AM
Name: Charles C. Jones (Buddy)  
Rank/Rate: IC3 but got out fn
Division/Squadron: IC gang
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-1968
Location: Milford DE USA
Comments: Ports were Great, but the Gulf of Tonkin ... well you know.

Thursday July 03, 2014 - 07:47 PM
Name: Paul Laub Jr  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-1969
Location: Lehighton PA USA
Comments: Does anyone out there know where the ship is sitting now?? If she still around.

Monday June 30, 2014 - 03:19 PM
Name: Thom Rigg  
Rank/Rate: YN1
Division/Squadron: Legal Office
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1971
Location: Carson City NV USA
Comments: Some of my best memories of the Navy are also of the Coral Maru. Great guys both in the office and within the rest of the division. Have kept in touch with some of them but not all. Would be nice to see them all one more time.

Thursday June 26, 2014 - 08:54 AM
Name: Gordon W. Gentry  
Rank/Rate: ABH3
Division/Squadron: V1/V5
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1971
Location: Devine TX Medina
Comments: I had a great ride on the old lady, and a lot of great memories. It would be great to hear from anyone that served with me. I do plan to make the 2014 reunion in Nashville.

Sunday June 22, 2014 - 07:57 PM
Name: Dave Blumer  
Rank/Rate: AG
Division/Squadron: OA
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-68
Location: Davenport Iowa U.S.
Comments: I went aboard in Pearl and was assigned to "B" division 4B fire room. Completed the Airman course and was transferred to the weather office.

Sunday June 22, 2014 - 01:35 PM
Name: Duane Harvey  
Rank/Rate: AK2
Division/Squadron: S-6
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1964 - 1966
Location: Texas USA
Comments: Served my country

Friday June 20, 2014 - 11:29 AM
Name: John Baxter  
Rank/Rate: E-3 airman
Division/Squadron: V-4 V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 69-72
Location: crestwood ILL
Comments: For some of the guys from V-4 in 69-70 cruise would remember Paul Brooks well was on a mini trip and was able to stop bye and see him ,We visited all day after forty or so years we were the same guys only little older ,all though were both having some medical issues were doing good. Its so great to visit old navy buds and remember some good times and Bad !

Tuesday June 17, 2014 - 11:16 PM
Name: Eugene Renner (This is his granddaughter)  
Rank/Rate: I'm not sure of his rank
Division/Squadron: VIH Section 4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 195?-1954
Location: Omaha NE USA
Comments: I was going through a drawer and I found the booklet my grandpa recived when he got on the Coral Sea, "A Good Ship is a Happy Ship." I loved hearing him talking about his time in the Navy on the Coral Sea. He used to say it was like a floating city. I can remember being little and refering to it as a boat and he was quick to correct me saying, no, that's a ship. I remember the day he found out that the Coral Sea was being scrapped and how sad it made him. He had many happy memories on that ship. He's been gone 3 years now.I miss him and his stories about the city on the sea. I wish it was him signing this guestbook with his fellow shipmates, but I just thought I would do it in his honor.

Tuesday June 17, 2014 - 12:30 PM
Name: O. R. Guzman (Goose)  
Rank/Rate: Airman-ABF2/ABFC
Division/Squadron: V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1
Location: Clarksville Virginia USA
Comments: As I read all the posts the memories come flooding in. Today when I think about the (old days)and then look in the mirror I see someone different when I look at pictures you guys have posted I see you as I SAW YOU IN THE 70"S DAMN AGE IS CATCHING UP TO US we need to have a reunion so I can shake and hug each and every one of my Coral Sea brothers that served together when we were young and full of (vigor) during Vietnam. I have lasting memories that dementia or Altzhimers cannot take,away God forbid if it hits, I admire my V-4 memories and shipmates, may you all have fair winds and following seas. Goose. V-4 div. 1971-75

Monday June 16, 2014 - 03:12 PM
Name: Dave Bolt  
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: GM Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-1967
Location: Geneva Illinois USA
Comments: Anybody from the Guided Missile Div (Mar66/Jun67) please feel free to contact me.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
There is another Coral Sea site out the usscoralsea.net, give it a try they have some good stuff.

Saturday June 14, 2014 - 01:09 PM
Name: Robert Sanders  
Rank/Rate: DS1
Division/Squadron: E Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-1970
Location: Dorr Michigan USA
Comments: Fond memories!

Thursday June 12, 2014 - 12:53 AM
Name: Bruce Parrish  
Rank/Rate: E-3
Division/Squadron: Enginering
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-1969
Location: Bradley Califirnia USA
Comments: I would like to say hello to old friends and shipmates both in "B" division and "R" division. I miss the old days, had a lot of fun and hard work. May you all have good health and the desirers of your heart.
E-3 Parrish

Tuesday June 10, 2014 - 04:48 PM
Name: Dean Daniels  
Rank/Rate: e3
Division/Squadron: 1st div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 84-85
Location: Chicago ill us
Comments: My sleeping quarters was in the bow. I still wakeup at the time of the crash!

Sunday June 08, 2014 - 08:08 PM
Name: John Lamar Willis  
Rank/Rate: AO2/AZ2
Division/Squadron: G/X-MAA
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1964 - 1967
Location: Sylacauga AL USA
Comments: Hello shipmates. From NAMTRAGRU Memphis headquarters in Dec. '63 to NAS Alameda, I had to await the ship's return to CONUS in '64. 1st billet: G-Div Tool Room PO, port catwalk 02 level; 2nd billet: G Truck Repair PO, hangar bay 1, portside cage; 3rd billet: G Forward Mags PO; 4th billet: X-MAA Linen Locker PO & CPO Berthing PPO. Our G-Div. 4-piece band played periodically for the wardroom, enlisted mess, beach parties, & almost every night while in port at Hong Kong. We kept our instruments stored in our assigned "band room" which was on the starboard aft gun-sponson. One of the band's most-enjoyable gigs was on a Saturday night when we played for a 3-hr. teen party while in port Subic Bay. We frequently had adequate volunteer working parties to assist with instrument/stage set-ups, etc. I converted to AZ while aboard & retired as AZCS at AIMD Jax, Jan 1981. I would enjoy hearing from any shipmates. I'm glad I found this web site & am looking forward to attending the 2014 reunion in Nashville, if possible.

Saturday June 07, 2014 - 09:45 AM
Name: Ron Kriss  
Rank/Rate: E3
Division/Squadron: A Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1974
Location: Ellijay Ga. USA
Comments: To the good times.

Friday June 06, 2014 - 02:56 PM
Name: Randy Noel  
Rank/Rate: E-3
Division/Squadron: B-5 Oil Shack
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 86 to 89
Location: Arnaudville Louisiana, USA St. Landry
Comments: Just found the website, and wanted to say HI to all that served on the old girl during that time. To any of my old shipmates that remember me please send me an email. Had a lot of good times at all the ports of call an at Virginia Beach. GOD BLESS ALL THAT HAVE SERVED!!!!!!

Wednesday June 04, 2014 - 09:31 AM
Name: Tom Bilodeau  
Rank/Rate: AQAN
Division/Squadron: VA-55
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 85-86
Location: Bear Creek NC USA
Comments: First visit to the association page and I enjoyed looking through it. Brings back some great memories from the 85-86 Med Cruise. Great to tell my children (and now Grandson) about the "Coral Maru".

Friday May 30, 2014 - 09:13 PM
Name: A.E. Mitchell  
Rank/Rate: E-4. ADR-3
Division/Squadron: V-1 V-6 Divisions
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1959-1963
Location: Perris Calif Riverside
Comments: After Boot Camp! I was assigned to the USS Ticondoroga CVA-14, V-3 Div. I was then reassigned to the USS Coral Sea. I then went through indoc/training,in San Diego,at the Des Base! After,we all took a trip aboard a Troop Transport up the coast to Brimerton Wash. where the Coral Sea was in dry dock. That was a cruse to remember!! A lot of Sea sickness, except for this salt!!

Friday May 30, 2014 - 08:28 AM
Name: Danny Dawkins  
Rank/Rate: E5
Division/Squadron: Communications/Radioman
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1983-1987
Location: East Orange N.J. USA
Comments: I'll forever cherish the precious memories of my time spent on "THE AGELESS WARRIOR" ...."THE AFRICAN QUEEN"

Thursday May 29, 2014 - 07:29 AM
Name: Allison Funk  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: Somerville Massachusetts United States
Comments: I am currently researching the Coral Sea in the Vietnam War era, and am looking to connect with crew members who were involved in or have any memories of the Stop Our Ship movement in 71' and 72'. I would appreciate any personal stories, recollections, opinions, etc on the subject. Best wishes and thanks!

Wednesday May 28, 2014 - 03:01 PM
Name: Erby "Dan" Torres  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1970-1974
Location: Yorba Linda Ca USA
Comments: My name is Erby "Dan" Torres. I was in #2 Engine from Oct 70 to May 74. Hoping to locate Ted Malysz, Donnie Miller, Chris Christenson, Steve Lange, Bernie Pasker, Joe Lidwell or anyone who was in 2 Group at that time. I know it's been 40 years, but get ahold of me anyway.

Sunday May 25, 2014 - 08:28 AM
Name: Daniel Sauceda  
Rank/Rate: AN/E-3
Division/Squadron: V-4 Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1972
Location: deland Florida (FL) U.S.A.
Comments: In memory to all of those who gave their ultimate sacrifice and who won't be forgotten. Happy Memorial Day to all who are serving and to all who served.
Sauce

Tuesday May 20, 2014 - 05:13 AM
Name: greg steele  
Rank/Rate: BT 3
Division/Squadron: B div 4Charlie
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1973-1977
Location: estill springs tn us
Comments: lot of great times can't wait to see all my old buddies in nashville

Monday May 19, 2014 - 10:41 AM
Name: Kelvin Mitchell Frascone  
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: G-Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1973-1976
Location: Magnolia Ohio USA
Comments: I served aboard the USS Coral Sea (CV-43) during the years 1973-1976. She was a great Ship. I was an ordanceman 3rd class in G-Div. Worked below deck in assm area.

Saturday May 17, 2014 - 11:48 AM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thomas KY. USA
Comments: Attention all Coral Sea Shipmates: the annual reunion will be in Nashville, TN. from Oct. 1 thru 4, 2014. Please make your reservations now since there is another event at this hotel during our reunion. Don't miss out, reserve your room now!!! Check for details under the reunion tab on this website.

Thursday May 15, 2014 - 06:06 PM
Name: DAN SEITZ UNCLE DAN BOONE   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B-DIV. 1BAKER& BOILER REPAIR
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1965-1968
Location: ELYRIA OHIO U.S.A.
Comments: GREAT SHIP THE OLD CORAL SEA. HAPPY TRAILS TO ALL THE OLD NAVY BUDDYS.

Thursday May 15, 2014 - 12:50 PM
Name: THOMAS PUKALSKI (SKI)  
Rank/Rate: ABE-3
Division/Squadron: V-2 (CAT 3)
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-1971
Location: FINKSBURG MARYLAND
Comments: Efforts to locate shipmates who served in the V-2 Division during the late 60's and early 70's have been very successful. As of this date, 60 plus V-2 crewmembers have been located With this being said, many of these individuals have expressed a real interest to attend the reunion in Nashville, TN the first week of October. If you have not spoken to me and would like more information on whom I have talked to please feel free to contact me. I would enjoy hearing from you and sharing the names of the people I have talked to.

Wednesday May 14, 2014 - 11:03 PM
Name: Dan L. Johnson  
Rank/Rate: E-3 SN Yeoman
Division/Squadron: 3rd Division / Deck Department
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): January 1971 to January 1973
Location: Tombstone Arizona USA
Comments: Well I had Signed the Guestbook on December 31,2013 and January 1, 2014 and mentioned about the Cruise of '71-'72. I Filmed a good portion of the Cruise and Have 3 1/2 Hours Total of the Filming. I have them Transferred to Two (2) DVD's. I can make Copies of this Cruise. So Hopefully some of My Shipmates from 3rd Division and too just Deck Department. Or Anyone else that was on this Cruise. I Filmed......some of the UNREPS.....Flight Ops.....Liberty on Base, going up to Cubi Pointe and Taxi Ride back to the Ship.....Liberty in Hong Kong....a Tour to Tokyo,Tokyo Tower, Theatre Shows....USO Shows on Ship....Water Skiing from the Captain's Gig in Subic Bay.....and Back Home in San Francisco......I want to Share what I Filmed....to Anyone.....and Hopefully You will be in the Cruise Book too. Not All go around Filming the Action or what ever being done from the Ship......It was History in the Makings. The Film is Super 8 and No Sound....this is Before Super 8 did come out later with the Sound. Connect with Me on My E-mail Address. Hope to Hear from My Shipmates.

Wednesday May 14, 2014 - 09:57 PM
Name: Paul Sokolowski  
Rank/Rate: ABH3
Division/Squadron: V-3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1987-1989
Location: gilbert AZ - Arizona USA
Comments: Great to have come across this site.

Tuesday May 13, 2014 - 07:16 PM
Name: Warren D Cleveland  
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: G Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1970-1973
Location: Thomaston Ga USA
Comments: I was happy to stumble across this.

Monday May 12, 2014 - 08:17 PM
Name: Johnnie D. Johnson  
Rank/Rate: AG3
Division/Squadron: OA Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1972-1975
Location: Salinas CA. U.S.A.
Comments: I was onboard the Coral Sea during 'Operation Frequent Wind.'

Saturday May 10, 2014 - 09:12 PM
Name: raymond fogliano  
Rank/Rate: pr-2
Division/Squadron: hc-1 det 3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1979-1981
Location: avon lake ohio u.s.a.
Comments: Interesting site. Still have cruise patches for ship and squadran.

Thursday May 08, 2014 - 11:20 AM
Name: Sherry Petty Thomas  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 69 - 71
Location: Houston TX USA
Comments: I am looking for anyone that might have served aboard with my brother, John Petty, 1969 - 1971. He was from Houston, TX and has passed away and I am trying to find out information on his time on the USS Coral Sea.

Thank you so much! Hope to hear from someone!

Thursday May 08, 2014 - 05:25 AM
Name: Robert GiLL  
Rank/Rate: MN2
Division/Squadron: G
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Billerica MA. USA
Comments: It was 42 years ago that the first 36 Mk-52 mines were dropped in Haiphong harbor by jets from VA-94, VA-22, and VMF-224. Each aircraft ( Three A-6A's and 6 A-7E's) were used to block the entrance. (4 mines apiece)Myself, Roland Puscher MN3 and Tim mercier MNSN were the only Mineman aboard. We got a LOT of help from G division's AO's to get these weapons together in short notice. " Operation Pocket Money" was a great success!

Tuesday April 29, 2014 - 11:46 PM
Name: Jerry Jasman  
Rank/Rate: MM2
Division/Squadron: M-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 79-80 Westpac
Location: Marlin WA
Comments: What is the "Uss coral sea 500 hour fire watch?" I have seen patches but yet to figure out what watch this was.

Tuesday April 29, 2014 - 09:29 PM
Name: Jim Johnson  
Rank/Rate: an
Division/Squadron: OC
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1972 - 1973
Location: Madison WI USA
Comments: Was at the Midwest Spring Fling in Springfield, IL this last weekend. It was a small group this year, but I believe we all had a great time. There was a lot of stories told. Most started with that famous phrase: Now this is no S---.

Looking forward to next year. We are going back to Springfield again.

Tuesday April 29, 2014 - 05:19 PM
Name: Stacey Mayes  
Rank/Rate: E-3/Intelligence Specialist
Division/Squadron: N2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1987-1989
Location: Snow Shoe PA USA
Comments: Looking for any Intel guys from that era...2 Med cruises and was homeported in Norfolk, VA at that time.

Tuesday April 29, 2014 - 03:12 AM
Name: Warren Luck  
Rank/Rate: AO2
Division/Squadron: VAH2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-64
Location: Brisbane QLD. Australia
Comments: Oh how I remember this day in 1963. A few days later, I met the girl who in 2005 (long story) became my wife.
Thank you Coral Sea for the ride "Down Under."
We were in Sydney several weeks ago and the memories came back as though it was yesterday.
Surely I can't be the only one to have returned!

Friday April 25, 2014 - 11:18 PM
Name: kelvin  
Rank/Rate: 10
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: usa
Comments: Do you need Guaranteed and affordable Loan? If yes apply With Us and get fast approval today. No Credit Checks, No Collateral. easy steps, Fast Funding and low interest rate. Contact us today via kelvinkeyloanservices@gmail.com

Monday April 21, 2014 - 02:59 PM
Name: Mike Cochran   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: E3/ SKI USNR Retired
Division/Squadron: V-2 Cat#3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1970
Location: Arizona
Comments: I see a couple of -----------'s got pass security and made their way onto this guestbook. What else. It's Monday. Hope they aren't at the Reunion.
Mike C.

Saturday April 19, 2014 - 06:33 PM
Name: Darwin Litzell  
Rank/Rate: PN3
Division/Squadron: VAH2 @ XDiv
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 60-61-62
Location: Glenwood City Wisconsin USA
Comments: George, They were called Irish Pennants when I went through boot camp in 1959. That's the only thing we called them. I made the 60-61 cruise on the Coral Maru with VAH2 out of Whidbey Island, Wa. Just before that cruise was over, I got orders to ships company and made the next far east cruise in X division. That was a loooooooong time ago wasn't it? Regards,

Darwin "Hap" Litzell
PN3
P.S.
Drop a line if you like. Always glad to hear from a shipmate. My email is:
mrhap1@cltcomm.net

Saturday April 19, 2014 - 07:11 AM
Name: George Irvin  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 59-62
Location: Danbury Texas usa
Comments: Q. For old Recruits only. Who can remember for sure what the left over ends of clothes stops (max 1/2") were called after tying garments on line to dry ? I've heard Tie-Ties, Bitter ends, Irish Pennants from old mates. I'm not convinced any of these terms are valid. A useless bit of trivia I suppose.

Q. What is a clothes stop?
A. A clothes stop is a small diameter cord about 12 inches long with metal ends to keep the cord from fraying. This short cord was used to tie laundry to a clothes line or other convenient object for drying. Every recruit was issued a length of clothes stops in boot camp instead of clothes pins. They ceased to be issued in 1973.

Tuesday April 15, 2014 - 12:23 PM
Name: roger ryba  
Rank/Rate: abe-3
Division/Squadron: v-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969-1971
Location: middle river mn usa
Comments: Checking in for another year. Hope to see everyone at the reunion.

Monday April 14, 2014 - 02:58 AM
Name: carol berridge  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location:
Comments: Comments: G'day - i am looking for some crewmen who came to Perth in 1975 on the Coral Sea. The names are Carl A Collins and Robin Nelson. we were fortunate enough to meet these guys and spent good times with them. I went to America in 1976 where i met Carl in Longbeach and also Robin. I have often wondered how they were doing but have no way of finding them. I have checked public records and all the available options to no avail. I do not have birthdates or addresses. if there is anyone who can help i would be delighted to have your assistance. I am happy to pass on my email address to people who are seriously trying to help. Thank you -- in advance. Carol

oh yes i am now on face book under carol berridge. I live in Perth Western Australia goodoh

Sunday April 13, 2014 - 01:58 PM
Name: Daniel Mei   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: AMSAN
Division/Squadron: aimed/airframes
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969-1970
Location: Grand Junction Colorado USA
Comments: Best ship I ever served on CORAL MARU

Friday April 11, 2014 - 10:46 AM
Name: Walter Sury  
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: R Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-1971
Location: Mims FL usa
Comments: Looking for any one who served aboard the Coral Sea during 1967-1971. While the ship was in the gulf of Tonkin. I worked in R division metal shop. I have had a claim with the VA for the last 10 years for the affects agent orange has had on me. I have had cancer of the larynx, cancer of the thyroid, high blood pressure, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis. And a few other problems associated with exposure to agent orange. All of my claims have been denied for lack of proof to the exposure to agent orange. I was also aboard the USS Askerie, It was a repair ship anchored on a river in Viet Nam. This was a temporary duty assignment. Was aboard this ship twice for maybe a week at a time. There is no record of my being aboard this ship. I have no idea why, Would like to hear from anyone who may have any problems from agent orange. I have just filed my last appeal with the VA on my claim. Thanks, Walt Sury... It was a Great ride. Miss the good times aboard

Wednesday April 09, 2014 - 06:31 AM
Name: Jomes Yotkewich  
Rank/Rate: abe-3
Division/Squadron: v-2 #2 cat
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-64
Location: west frankfort il. usa
Comments: checking in again to see if anyone from my time from v-2 might be going to springfield for the reunion.

Tuesday April 08, 2014 - 09:10 AM
Name: Tom Crosslin  
Rank/Rate: fn (e-3)
Division/Squadron: A
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 12-59 to 8-61
Location: La Porte Indiana
Comments: Would like to connect with any shipmates from the 60-61 era.

Tuesday April 08, 2014 - 12:34 AM
Name: Roger Ross  
Rank/Rate: mm3
Division/Squadron: A-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): oct. 67 to april 71
Location: Bowling Green Ky USA
Comments: New e-mail address. sleepy2@twc.com. e-mail been messed up for a while, computer went down and other things.

Wednesday April 02, 2014 - 08:22 AM
Name: glendon s (andy) anderson  
Rank/Rate: abh-3
Division/Squadron: v1 rep-8
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-1965
Location: longview texas 75605 gregg
Comments: on april 3 1963 we left alameda ca to go on a cruse I can still see our loves one on the pier with tears in there eyes wane by to there love ones it was a great cruse we was the show boat of the paffic never was at sea more than 2 week at a time . it does not seem it has been 51 yrs ago wish every I that sailed on her a very good yrs I wonder how many of us is still alive will never forget the good times and the sad time we spent away from our love 1 there was happy time and sad times some time we worked 18 hours a day I hope every I enjoy reading this would love 2 hear from the men I served with

Tuesday April 01, 2014 - 05:17 AM
Name: carol berridge  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: Perth australia
Comments: G'day - i am looking for some crewmen who came to Perth in 1975 on the Coral Sea. The names are Carl D Collins, Robin Nelson, Donald Grogan. we were fortunate enough to meet these guys and spent good times with them. I went to America in 1976 where i met Carl in Longbeach and also Robin and Don. I have often wondered how they were doing but have no way of finding them. I have checked public records and all the available options to no avail. I do not have birthdates or addresses. if there is anyone who can help i would be delighted to have your assistance. I am happy to pass on my email address to people who are seriously trying to help. Thank you -- in advance. Carol

Sunday March 30, 2014 - 08:18 PM
Name: Robert (Davey) Davis  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M3/ Three Screw Crew
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 78-81
Location: San Jose Ca USA
Comments: I just came across this site. I served onboard from 78-81 down in the #3 Engine room, With /JRoy Mecham, Johnboy, Schulte, Ivan, Jim Hamm, Harry our lead PO. Some of the best times of my life were spent on board here, even the 102 days at sea during the hostage crisis. Glad to see a website like this out there for the old gal.

Saturday March 29, 2014 - 04:46 PM
Name: Jon Lickey  
Rank/Rate: RD-3
Division/Squadron: OI
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 5/ 1968- 4/1971
Location: Peoria IL U. S. A.
Comments: Brings back the memories !!

Wednesday March 26, 2014 - 12:26 PM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thomas Ky. USA
Comments: Shipmates,
The mid-west spring fling is just around the corner. Please check out the website for more details. Also, the main reunion will be in Nashville, TN. Check the reunion tab for info.
I hope to see all of you soon.
Godspeed!

Tuesday March 25, 2014 - 02:07 PM
Name: John Bauer  
Rank/Rate: MM2
Division/Squadron: A-div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1960-1962
Location: Fresno Calif
Comments: Looking for old shipmates in A-divison, refrigeration & A/C 1960-1962 1/2.

Saturday March 22, 2014 - 11:17 PM
Name: Russell Johnson  
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: G-1 Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1984-1986
Location: Hedgesville WV. 25427 USA
Comments: First time this year signing in. Hope Everyone is doing well. I commented on the videos that Dave Huber put on the site a few years back of us building bombs when we bombed Libya. Brought back alot of memories.

Friday March 21, 2014 - 10:46 AM
Name: John J. Gelke  
Rank/Rate: Captain
Division/Squadron: DESRON-FIVE
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1980
Location: Carmel CA USA
Comments: I served as Commander Destroyer Squadron Five, embarked in Coral Sea with my staff. It was a pleasure to have my Pennant in the Coral Sea and serve with my good friend, Dick Dunleavy. We were treated very well by the crew and very much appreciated their professionalism during the three months aboard while we tried to free the hostages from Iran.
Fair winds,
Jack Gelke

Thursday March 20, 2014 - 04:11 PM
Name: Paul F. Rosscup  
Rank/Rate: E-5/PR2
Division/Squadron: AIMD
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1980-82
Location: Tumwater Washington USA
Comments: Out of the 4 carriers I sailed on, the Coral Sea was by far the best and most organized that I served on. She was a Grand lady!

Wednesday March 19, 2014 - 11:58 PM
Name: Raymond Melninkaitis  
Rank/Rate: AO2
Division/Squadron: VA 153
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967-1969
Location: Beacon Falls CT USA
Comments: Two West Pac cruises.

Sunday March 16, 2014 - 07:42 PM
Name: JOHN R RUMMEL  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M-3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1979 to 1983
Location: BAY POINT CA
Comments: I HAD SOME OF MY BEST TIME IN THE NAVY ON THIS SHIP

Wednesday March 12, 2014 - 01:46 PM
Name: William E Smith  
Rank/Rate: LTJG
Division/Squadron: VA-153
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963-1965
Location: Wellsville NY USA
Comments: Aircraft Division Officer, Maintenance Control Officer, NUC WEPS Loading Coordinator.

Sunday March 09, 2014 - 11:13 AM
Name: Larry D. Bright  
Rank/Rate: SN
Division/Squadron: 4th DIV
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1964-1966
Location: Hammond Indiana LAKE
Comments: Miss the old girl. Cry like a baby when I c pictures R video of her. I miss the guys i served with. God Bless the USA>

Sunday March 09, 2014 - 10:45 AM
Name: Howard Lee Griffith   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: RD-3
Division/Squadron: 03
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1951-1954
Location: Newtown Pennsylvania United States
Comments: Missed the guys from 03 division. It's nice to be back aboard.

Saturday March 08, 2014 - 05:46 PM
Name: Valery C.  
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: Norfolk Virginia 23518
Comments: Hi...I was not on the ship but I looking for someone who was around 1985-1986 or 1987 when it was stationed in Norfolk, Va. Does anyone know Bill Wells or maybe how to get in touch with him? I would very much like to talk to him and see how is doing! I am sorry to post on your guest book...and...Thank You :)

Saturday March 08, 2014 - 10:51 AM
Name: RUDOLPH LAWRENCE BEACHAM  
Rank/Rate: BT-3
Division/Squadron: B /BR
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1965-1969
Location: CHOCOWINITY NORTH CAROLINE BEAUFORT
Comments: would like to hear from anyone

Friday March 07, 2014 - 01:01 PM
Name: John Baxter  
Rank/Rate: AN
Division/Squadron: V-2 V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 69-72
Location: crestwood ill
Comments: just to let you guys no coral sea is on face book !

Thursday March 06, 2014 - 02:30 PM
Name: John H. Bruffett  
Rank/Rate: E-5
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-1967
Location: Salmon Idaho U.S.A.
Comments: I am looking for any of the guys that I served with aboard the Coral Sea. I was attached to the carrier air wing VF-21. I realize it has been a LONG time since then but maybe there are a few that still are around!!! Hit me up guys and lets catch up with each other!!!

Wednesday March 05, 2014 - 05:44 PM
Name: James R Williams ( Willie)  
Rank/Rate: E-5 AMS-2
Division/Squadron: V-6 Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1960-1963
Location: Lake Charles LA USA
Comments: Just checking in for another great year. I will turn 74 years young in Oct. And I still find it hard to believe I have made it this far!! Who knew HA! Every day I miss The Gray Lady and the great group of guys I served with.

Wednesday March 05, 2014 - 05:04 AM
Name: james yotkewich  
Rank/Rate: ABE-3
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-1964
Location: west frankfort ill. usa
Comments: just checking in. hope to make this year reunion . hope to see OLD ship mates from my time. she was a great ship. many memories.

Tuesday March 04, 2014 - 06:06 PM
Name: John W. Diana  
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1962-1966
Location: Belvidere NJ usa
Comments: Ahoy mates...anyone in this rank and division and time frame let me hear from you...John Diana

Tuesday March 04, 2014 - 07:32 AM
Name: Clyde Vandivort  
Rank/Rate: ATN2
Division/Squadron: AIMD COM/NAV
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 69-70
Location: Franklin West Virginia United States
Comments: Was pleased to come upon this site. Wondering what ever happened to the guys in our shop. Johnson, Orndorff, Mathews, Tracy, Katzenbach, etc. Would love to hear from anyone that I served with.

Sunday March 02, 2014 - 02:25 PM
Name: Jimmy L. Sackett  
Rank/Rate: ABE 1
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-1969
Location: Menahga MN USA
Comments: I still remember the headaches with starboard jet blast deflector ha ha
Mt job was easy with help of great guys in my crew
great boss to work with LCDR Williams.
I still keep in touch with Harvey Reynolds,

Saturday March 01, 2014 - 06:18 PM
Name: Dan Walker  
Rank/Rate: ABE3
Division/Squadron: V-2 Cat 2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 76-80
Location: Danville Indiana USA
Comments: Just saying hey to all the shipmates I served with

Saturday March 01, 2014 - 02:03 PM
Name: Larry Trout  
Rank/Rate: ABE-4
Division/Squadron: V2 CAT2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1977-1981
Location: Dekalb IL
Comments: Any V-2 ship mates that remember myself or Rick Greenleaf or Tom Supnet,Tom is organizing a reunion in San Diego July 11th to the 14th.Will be visiting the USS Midway.Can find Tom on facebook or reply to me and I will pass along info.

Friday February 28, 2014 - 09:55 AM
Name: Dick Parker  
Rank/Rate: LI3
Division/Squadron: X
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1963 to 1965
Location: Mishawaka Indiana USA
Comments: We lost another fine shipmate on the 23rd fo Feburary.
Floyd [ Huck] Huckaby LI1 he was on the ship in 1964 and 1965.
In x division he was in charge of the Print Shop and a great leader.

Wednesday February 26, 2014 - 07:57 AM
Name: B Abbob  
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1960
Location: Janesville Wis
Comments: anyone from V4

Tuesday February 25, 2014 - 10:26 PM
Name: Bill Herman   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: AE2
Division/Squadron: VAH2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1964-1965
Location: Hubertus, WI
Comments: We left San Francisco heading for Australia and ended up on Yankee Station in the South China Sea.
I worked night check from 7PM to 7Am fixing A3's, the Whales.

Thursday February 20, 2014 - 08:52 PM
Name: Billy J. Graham  
Rank/Rate: AT-3
Division/Squadron: VAQ-135
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1972
Location: Marion AR USA
Comments: VAQ-135, Det-3 was a small group. I would love to hear from any of you guys.

Sunday February 16, 2014 - 08:44 PM
Name: George Irvin  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 59-62
Location: Danbury Texas USA
Comments: Does anyone have a clue on the dates for the Nashville reunion this year? Time is flying by.

Sunday February 16, 2014 - 08:42 PM
Name: Karl Haywood  
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B-2A
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 80-83
Location: Austin TX
Comments: Still here... Looking for any other B2 guys....

Sunday February 16, 2014 - 10:07 AM
Name: Jerry Connelly  
Rank/Rate: AG2
Division/Squadron: OA
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 61-63
Location: Salvisa Ky
Comments: E Mail been down for two months. Still loking for any old weather men out there and hope to see you in Oct in Tenn.

Saturday February 15, 2014 - 08:32 PM
Name: buddy rozell  
Rank/Rate: mm2
Division/Squadron: A division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1962-1965
Location: houston texas us
Comments: Worked in a/c & ref and I just want to say thanks to all those I met that shaped my life, even the scum bag who suckered punched me who taught me something a real man would not do
Anyone out there that knows me feel free to write.
Buddy Rozelle
Us Coast Guard 400 ton capt

Friday February 14, 2014 - 08:51 AM
Name: Roy Williams  
Rank/Rate: E3
Division/Squadron: 3RD Division
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1960-1964
Location: Paradise California USA
Comments: Lots of fond memories.

Friday February 14, 2014 - 03:44 AM
Name: Lee Aimesbury  
Rank/Rate: E3
Division/Squadron: 3RD Div. Deck
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1973
Location: Kailua Hawaii USA
Comments: Two tours on the Tonken Gulf, twice to Hong Kong, 8 trips to the PI man it was wild. We lived under the Forecastle and the catapults, work the underway replenishments AKA unraps. It has been some time since I have though of the old gal. I just saw a documentary about the "O" being sunk as a reef That is what reminded me of CVA-43.
I hope some of my buddies see this (Rocket, Bubbles, Mac or others).

Friday February 07, 2014 - 08:47 AM
Name: Frank Nutty  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1970-1974
Location: Connersville IN USA
Comments: Can it really be 40 years since I served on ole 43! Mostly all good memories. Retired last year after 35 years service with Connersville Fire Department, rose to the rank of Fire Chief. Wishing all shipmates good health and happiness in life, family.

Thursday February 06, 2014 - 03:10 AM
Name: Curtis Mosely  
Rank/Rate: Airman
Division/Squadron: V-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1983
Location: Texas U.S.A.
Comments: Warriors!

Sunday February 02, 2014 - 10:32 PM
Name: Patrick M. Johnson  
Rank/Rate: AE-5
Division/Squadron: VF-111
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1975
Location: The Colony Texas United States
Comments: She was my first ship.

Sunday February 02, 2014 - 09:03 PM
Name: Ken peaslee  
Rank/Rate: BM3
Division/Squadron: 4th Div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1948-1952
Location: Kingston New Hampshire USA
Comments: Best ship that ever floated A lot of good memories

Sunday February 02, 2014 - 08:36 PM
Name: WALTER HEIL  
Rank/Rate: YN2
Division/Squadron: VF=154
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961
Location: Pampa Texas USA
Comments: I was aboard for a short time and was transfer to the USS HANCOCK CVA*19.

Monday January 27, 2014 - 05:11 PM
Name: Roger Ross  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: A-1
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1967 to 1971
Location: Bowling Green Ky. USA
Comments: dear fellow shipmates-today I received the last colors flown on the USS Coral Sea. I got this Flag from the person that lowered it when the ship was last docked to be decommissioned. I believe this is an important find. Any questions or comments please e-mail me. I still remember most of the A-1 gang. If you don't remember me I am tall,blonde,(gray now), goofy looking hillbilly. Hope to hear from shipmates that remember me. Have a good year

Sunday January 26, 2014 - 08:06 AM
Name: Ken Rickerson  
Rank/Rate: AO 2
Division/Squadron: AIMD IM-3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1977-1980
Location: North Las Vegas Nv. US
Comments: What a party!!! Don't remember much except floating around for a 102 days because of some jerks in Iran!!!

Saturday January 25, 2014 - 07:11 AM
Name: steven strouse  
Rank/Rate: et2
Division/Squadron: oer
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 87-90
Location: West palm beach fl usa
Comments: I was on board for the last 2 cruises. And decom.crew i was one of the last crew members to walk off of her.

Wednesday January 22, 2014 - 06:00 PM
Name: Butch Craig  
Rank/Rate: BT1
Division/Squadron: B-4/MP
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1979-1984
Location: Madison AL
Comments: WesPac 79-80, 81-82, World Cruise 83. Portsmith Naval Shipyard.

Tuesday January 21, 2014 - 10:41 PM
Name: Peter Golcher   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: AD2
Division/Squadron: VA55
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1984-88
Location: Los Gatos CA US
Comments: Worked night check on the flight deck for two Med cruises: 86 and 88. First as a line rat and then as a final checker/ trouble shooter.

Saturday January 18, 2014 - 09:15 AM
Name: Martin Ort  
Rank/Rate: ADJ 3
Division/Squadron: V6
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1965 1967
Location: Charlotte Hall MD. USA.
Comments: I was on the ship as a ADJ 3. My main job was to work on the yellow gear.

Thursday January 16, 2014 - 11:49 AM
Name: chuck orchard   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: abf3
Division/Squadron: V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 68-70
Location: Lodi Ca USA
Comments: Had a great time during my 2 cruises. great to see all
V4 on here lately. Remember a Hollenbeck who showed me the
ropes on my first trip into Japan. Remember some went on their own
and lost everything within 30 minutes.

Thursday January 16, 2014 - 07:06 AM
Name: Chris Hawley  
Rank/Rate: LI 3
Division/Squadron: X
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1960-1963
Location: Souderton Pa. USA
Comments: Went onboard in May of 60' and served first year with my older brother John Hawley,EM2. Did 3 Westpac cruises with last taking us to Australia.Have always felt that the Navy allowed a 17 year old to grow up and be a man.Did my entire enlistment onboard which happen to be 43 months. I have a picture of CVA 43 going under the Golden Gate bridge that is 16"by36" and has 3 pictures of same inset that are pre angle deck period, one of the perks of being in "X" divison.

Wednesday January 15, 2014 - 06:21 PM
Name: Chuck Bell  
Rank/Rate: PN2
Division/Squadron: X Div Personnel Office
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 62-63
Location: Clinton Wisconsin United States
Comments: When I go to the Madison Wi. VA Clinic, I always wear my Coral Sea hat. My dress hat! It never fails ...more than a few vets always comments on the Coral Sea and their involvement with HER!. It occured to me that they were talking to all of us that called HER home. Some served with, some near, but all had an association with her. The Coral Sea has left a legacy that can never deminish...makes one prouder to witness how she is remembered. Thanks again from all of us!

Wednesday January 15, 2014 - 09:36 AM
Name: Dave Palmer  
Rank/Rate: E3
Division/Squadron: V2-V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 71-72
Location: New York USA
Comments: Hello and Happy New Year to all my old shipmates! Only 17 years old at the time and I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. Great time and terrific memories and I was lucky enough to make life long friends. Had the pleasure of getting together with them in 2009 at the Coral Sea reunion in Tampa, Florida. We hadn't seen each other at that time for almost 40 years and we all picked right up where we left off. Laughing and telling our sea stories (some of them were even true!) Hard to explain to those who never served the strong bond between shipmates. Great times, great memories great shipmates and proud to have served. God bless all those who have served and those who are now serving........Dave

Tuesday January 14, 2014 - 02:43 PM
Name: Bill Crawford (The Bear)  
Rank/Rate: AZ3
Division/Squadron: VAW-11 DET DELTA
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1964-1965
Location: Crossville TN USA
Comments: Served On from January 1964 until December 1965. Had a good Christmas and New Year's in Hawaii while they repaired the "Fighting Lady". I was suppose to go back on her in 1966 with VAW-11 DET ALPHA but got in a serious car accident a few days before she left. I would like to hear from anyone who was in Det Delta.
I use to live in New York have since relocated to Tennessee.

Monday January 13, 2014 - 09:51 AM
Name: Herbie Hernandez  
Rank/Rate: ABF3
Division/Squadron: V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 72-75
Location: Las Cruces New Mexico USA
Comments: Happy New Year to all my GRAPE Buddies, TK Williams, Harry, Sonny, Otmar, Dale,
Daniel, Frank Lentz, Rodney, Hubert, Tompkins. Just checking in, got back from
a Carribean Cruise yesterday and back @ work today. Looking forward to a reunion one of this day with all you guys from the Coral Maru! I had a great time with all you guys while overseas! I'm planning on retiring sometime this year for sure, so I'll have time to travel and visit some of you! Keep in touch
and if you're ever close to New Mexico stop by and visit me! My house has open doors to all you grapes!

Herbie Hernandez,
V-4, 72-75

Monday January 13, 2014 - 09:23 AM
Name: Tim (TK) Williams  
Rank/Rate: ABF-2
Division/Squadron: V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1972-1975
Location: Mesa AZ USA
Comments: To the V-4 crew. Where has all the time gone. It sometime feels like it was yesterday. I am Honored & Proud to too have known & served with all of you. Rodney, Harry, Herbie, Smuck, Jerry, Hubert, Tompkins, Goose, Shitty Smitty, Clark, Wilkie, Moore, I could go on, but I would have to mention the whole Division. I did a lot of bouncing around after I got out. Back to upstate NY then AZ, CO, TN, CO, & then back to AZ. Which is where I am now. So if anyone is passing thru the Phoenix area try to get in touch. Wish there was a way to get together some day. It would be Monumental. I wish the Best for all of you this year. May your seas be calm, & a breeze at your back.

Monday January 13, 2014 - 07:21 AM
Name: Frank Lentz  
Rank/Rate: ABF-3
Division/Squadron: V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: San Diego CA
Comments: Sonny! Glad to see you're still around, I hope everything is good with you. I remember some of your antics, Michael Bicking really liked your cock apple!!!!

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 05:17 PM
Name: Mark Olson  
Rank/Rate: ABF3
Division/Squadron: V-4 div
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 76-80
Location: Denver Iowa USA
Comments: Went to get onboard in late 76 and she was out to sea, so I waited at NAS Alameda for a week or so till she got in. I first went to the filter room, then the pump room, and the last couple years I was in flight deck control. Went on 2 West Pacs and was "shown the ropes" by the guys that were there before, thanks guys, gotta love the PI! Participated in the Iranian hostage deal and was at sea as I remember it 102 days or something like that, memory isn't the same as it once was. I do remember a lot of good times onboard and off while I was stationed on her. Still in touch with a couple shipmates yet, anyone else wanting to shoot the shit that remembers me, send me an email. Living on an acreage and still working for the man. Take Care

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 02:42 PM
Name: chris christian  
Rank/Rate: e4
Division/Squadron: v4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1972
Location: placentia cal usa
Comments: was best time

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 02:41 PM
Name: Sonny Stephanoff   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: ABF-3
Division/Squadron: V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1974
Location: Russian Mission Alaska
Comments: Great to see some of the old shipmates to log on to the site. Brings some of the memories that never got forgotten. Wish you all many more years.

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 01:55 PM
Name: John Baxter  
Rank/Rate: AN
Division/Squadron: V-4 V-2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1970 - 72
Location: crestwood ILL Cook
Comments: Great hear from some of my ship mates I can say several great things but they always had your back, If you were on deck or in the bars thanks guys , for all the memories, I can still remember some of them good days!

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 12:00 PM
Name: Dale Smith  
Rank/Rate: ABF2
Division/Squadron: V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 71-72..77-78
Location: Des Moines Iowa USA
Comments: Check in to the coral sea at 17 and was instantly educated by the members of the previous cruise...the best lesson they ever taught me was not to get caught and I learned that really good. Like I said before, I truly apologize to anyone that I might have offended by poking there whores or drinking their beer or smoking their weed, but only when they didn't share!!! But my real buddies didn't care. V4 lost a real wild man last year..Ron Frieburg...He showed me the ropes of not getting caught and sky diving..good man for sure. The flight deck is where the action was and I enjoyed ever bit of it. Made a lot of friends on the flight deck and from every div and squadron...helped lift bombs, chock planes, wipe my hands free of greases on the cat crew!!!.. and so much more. Made it to Iwakuni japan after the coral sea and then to Okinawa and then to Master jet base cecil field fla for a 2 year vaction ...went back to the coral sea in 77 and then out... Been living in Iowa ever since and running my business for over 30 years...finishing up driving a truck till I retire. Heres to the flight deck crews and squadrons of the 71 - 72 cruise

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 10:49 AM
Name: Daniel Sauceda  
Rank/Rate: AN/E-3
Division/Squadron: V-4 Air Dept
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968 -1972
Location: Deland Florida U.S.A.
Comments: Oops! Correction, served between August, 1968 to April, 1972 when Paul Brooks and I got flown off the ship to Da Nang cause we were coming home for good.

"SAuce"

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 10:42 AM
Name: Daniel Sauceda  
Rank/Rate: AN/E-3
Division/Squadron: V-4 Air Dept
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location: Deland Florida U.S.A.
Comments: Guzman & Miller, good to hear that you all doing fine. I live in Deland, Florida now but plan on moving back to Texas when I retire next year. I hope that all of us can get together again one more time cause we're not getting any younger.

take care,
Dan Sauceda "Sauce"

Sunday January 12, 2014 - 06:29 AM
Name: O. R. Guzman (Goose)  
Rank/Rate: Airman-ABF2/ABFC
Division/Squadron: V-4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1975/1985-1989
Location: Clarksville Virginia USA
Comments: Glad to read that an old former Grape is doing well and living in the PI. Miller are you driving a Volkswagen? If memory serves me right I believe you had a VW engine that you were rebuilding in your coffin locker.I am living in Virginia on a small farm and teaching high school Earth Science. If anyone ventures this way we are right next to the largest lake (except the Great Lakes) on the East coast, Lake Gaston/Kerr Lake. Come visit, if your pulling a trailer that's ok we have seven acres and plenty of parking. I'd like to read what other Grapes are doing because as you know time marches on and Grapes turn to Raisins. Have a great New Year Shipmates! See you eventually on the next deployment.

Saturday January 11, 2014 - 09:06 PM
Name: J.R Miller  
Rank/Rate: Flying Squid
Division/Squadron: V4
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 68-69-70-71-72
Location: Bago Negros Occidental Philippines
Comments: Arise Ye Almighty Grapes of V-4 division
I present a toast to my military brothers
A cold San Miguel Pilsen
I'm a lucky old bastard, I made it back to the PI
and have lived here for many years
I have a 5 acre farm here in Bago City, Negros Occidental
So if you get down this way look me up
Go to Crossing Ubay on the National Highway
My wife and I own Dolly's Deli on the northwest corner
Ask them how to get Tito Johnnys place, its just down the road
Towards Ma-ao about 1/3 of a mile

Saturday January 11, 2014 - 08:16 PM
Name: Tim Shalk  
Rank/Rate: Seaman
Division/Squadron: S3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1966-67
Location: San Ramon CA USA
Comments: Looking for Eddie PAdgett, HN on the Coral Sea with me. He was intstrumental in getting me off the ship and into Corps School. I eventually became a fleet marine corpsman, serving with a Seabee batallion.....and left the Navy an HM2...
If anyone remembers Eddie, or knows how to reach him, please let me know
thank you
Tim Shalk

Wednesday January 08, 2014 - 01:13 PM
Name: MIKE COCHRAN  
Rank/Rate: E3 SKI USNR RETIRED
Division/Squadron: V2 CAT 3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1968-1970
Location: SHOW LOW AZ
Comments: SORRY ABOUT THAT. IT WAS 1968 NOT 1958. I FEEL OLD ENOUGH AS IT IS!
MIKE C.

Wednesday January 08, 2014 - 01:09 PM
Name: MIKE COCHRAN   No Email Address
Rank/Rate: E-3 SKI USNR RETIRED
Division/Squadron: V-2 CAT 3
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1958-1970
Location: SHOW LOW AZ USA
Comments: HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! TOM, AND BRIAN I WILL SEE YOU IN NASHVILLE. CAN'T WAIT TO SIT DOWN WITH YOU GUYS AND DISCUSS, AILMENTS, MEDICATIONS, OPERATIONS, AND WHO GOT SCREWED WITH OBAMACARE? NOW, THAT IS A CHANGE FROM THE CONVERSATIONS WHEN TANK SLATER ABE1 WAS PATROLLING HIS LITTLE KINGDOME ON CAT 3. REMEMBER? I HOPE "FRENCHY" FROM MAINE IS THERE. HE STILL OWES ME $50.OO FROM THE NIGHT HIS CARDS RUNNING REAL COLD....

SMOOTH SEAS TO ALL.
MIKE COCHRAN

Tuesday January 07, 2014 - 09:25 PM
Name: Denny Vanderlinden  
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: M
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-1964
Location: Dougls GA
Comments: Was from Sioux City Ia... Probably not mny of us still around. Lot of good friends, and good and bad times ....mostly GOOD...LOL

Sunday January 05, 2014 - 09:14 PM
Name: James A. Vanderpool  
Rank/Rate: EM3
Division/Squadron: E Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1972-1976
Location: Sacramento CA.
Comments: Hope to hear from shipmates.

Saturday January 04, 2014 - 07:59 AM
Name: Brian Paradis  
Rank/Rate: ABE-3
Division/Squadron: V 2 cat 3 & 2
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1969 - 1973
Location: Burlington Connecticut USA
Comments: Thanks Tom for the message about the upcoming reunion. I was at the one in D.C. and had a great time. I plan on attending the one in Nashville. I hope we get more shipmates to attend this one it sounds like a great location. Happy New Year everyone.

Thursday January 02, 2014 - 09:04 AM
Name: james yotkewich  
Rank/Rate: ABE-3
Division/Squadron: V-2 #2 cat. deck edge
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1961-64
Location: west frankfort ill. usa
Comments: just checking in for the new year great ship many memories and crew happy new years to all.

Thursday January 02, 2014 - 08:18 AM
Name: THOMAS PUKALSKI (SKI)  
Rank/Rate: ABE-3
Division/Squadron: V-2 (CAT 3)
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 67-70
Location: FINKSBURG MARYLAND USA
Comments: In 2009 a large number of the guys who worked in the V-2 Division on Cat-3 came together at the Association reunion in Washington DC. This group consisted of individuals who served aboard the Coral Sea between the years of 1967-1971.As a group we made a promise to each other on the last day of the reunion, that we would come together again in 5 years. To this end, my goal is to make this happen and to expand the group to include all shipmates who served in the V-2 Division between the years of 1967-1971. This would encompass Cat. 1-2-3, AG and Plat. If you served in the V-2 Division during this time period and have some interest in coming together in Nashville, Tenn. the first week of October 2014 with some of your buddies please send me a e-mail. Even if you can't attend the 2014 reunion, I would still be happy to hear from you and I can share with you who I have heard from over the years.

Wednesday January 01, 2014 - 09:31 PM
Name: Daniel L. Johnson  
Rank/Rate: SN Yeoman
Division/Squadron: 3rd Division, Deck Department
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1973
Location: Tombstone Arizona USA
Comments: Continued:
.........Sure enough there He was Swimming from the Port Side away from the Fantail and He Swam to a Small Boat with someone in it. I called to the Bridge for a Man Overboard, Port Side away from the Fantail. One of the Helicopters went out, Picked Him up out of the Boat and Brought Him back to the Ship.

Another Incident on the Fantail.....Main Deck.......A Person walked out from the Hanger Bay on to the Fantail.....the Fantail Watchman was there....this is in 3rd Division Cleaning Area and the Fantail Watchman is in Deck Department. The Person walked to the end of the Fantail by the Rails......the Watchman just turned away from that Person for just a brief turn and looked back for the Person Standing........He was GONE........NO WHERE on the Fantail......the Fantail Watchman had to call in to the Bridge for a Man Overboard at the Fantail.......This Person was NEVER FOUND.

WE were at WAR, the VIET NAM WAR.........At Sea WE have these incidents, Happenings.........some Good........some Bad. The United States Navy Trained us to be Perfect in OUR JOBS. WE ALL have the WAR of Imperfection. During the VIET NAM WAR We had to deal with that WAR.......then WE ALL have the WAR in OUR MINDS......We were worried about out Loved Ones at Home.......Will I get Home to see them??? Will My Wife or Girl Friend wait for me???.......these are thoughts that each one of us Had. OUR LIFE was NOT EASY........From 1947 to 1990 with ALL of OUR SHIPMATES....Remember the USS CORAL SEA CV,CVB,CVA-43 and NOW IN MEMORY........but STILL ALIVE!!! AHOY MATES......Have a GOOD YEAR of 2014!!!

Wednesday January 01, 2014 - 09:08 PM
Name: Daniel L. Johnson  
Rank/Rate: SN Yeoman
Division/Squadron: 3rd Division, Deck Department
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1973
Location: Tombstone Arizona USA
Comments: Of the Best Times of My Life was on the Coral Sea during the 1971-1972 Cruise and an Exciting Cruise at that. Being in Deck Department We were Ready for Anything with Our Life Boats and All. Liberty Ports were Good.....to Relax, to enjoy being with our Shipmates......but back to what WE were trained for.....BACK TO SEA.

I remember coming back to San Francisco from San Diego after our REF Training before we went to WestPAC, there was a fire aboard Ship, two times was announced for the Fire and Repair Parties......then the third was General Quarters. I was a Yeoman for 3rd Division in Deck Department and I was in our Division Office which was on the Fantail, Second Deck below when all three Announcements were made. As soon as we heard the GONG,GONG,GONG of General Quarters........Man did we move.....went up to the Hanger Bay and Smoke was everywhere......got to My GQ Station, on the Sound Powered Phone I called to the Bridge saying that our Station is Manned and Ready. Our Training Payed-Off........our time for the whole Ship was Record Breaking. From our Cruisebook it stated that the whole Ship was ready in two minutes. What I heard at that time, there was a Electrical Short within the Island and it Sparked off with Fire. That Night everyones Adrenalin was still High.

One of the First Unfortunate Happenings was losing on of our A-7's and the Pilot. I don't know who the Pilot was but My understanding was that He came too low at the Fantail.....slid across the Flight Deck and went off the Port Side into the Sea.....at the time too He Ejected out. The Pilot was Found tangled up in His Chute Lines. As I mentioned before our Office in 3rd Division was on the Second Deck below at the Fantail. If the Pilot would have been lower than He did......We would've had more Casualties and Headed Back to Hunter's Point. Also........I wouldn't be telling You about this.

Another Time I was Assigned to the Bridge as My General Quarters Station on the Sound Powered Phone for Deck Department. I remember it was during Flight Ops and the Squadrons were doing a Touch and Go Flights. I was watching Captain Harris as He was watching an F-4 doing a Touch and Go from the Angle Deck. The F-4 Touched.........Started on the Go and Dropped from Sight.......Captain Harris was Sitting in His Chair.........Drew up His Legs and Feet............I think everyone on the Bridge was Holding Their Breath.......Then the F-4 came up in Sight Forward from the Bow. Captain Harris Quickly Said He wants to See the Pilot after He Lands.

During one of our UNREPS with the Uss Visuvious (sp) taking on Fuel. Our 3rd Division Fuel Station was on the Starboard Sponson near our Lifeboat. The Sea was really rough so we had to be careful as we hooked up. Again I'm on the Sound Powered Phones talking with the ones on the other Ship. My phone line was reaching over the water.....Ship to Ship. Well a coulple of times Both of the Ships seemed to be moving away from each other and My phone line was to the Max. Fuel Lines about to disconnect........and it Happened......Fuel Lines Disconnected, the Ships Moving Away.........My Phone Lines Pulled Away before I was able to disconnect and there Goes My Phone Line with the Head Phone and Breast Plate Completely Yanked OFF My Head and from My Life Vest.....into the Ocean. I wore Glasses too.......Yes they went into the Ocean too.........I am so Glad that we were Trained NOT to use the Neck Strap with those Phones During Refueling or Taking on Cargo...........What I understand that Caused all of this Happening.......was that the Forward GYRO stopped working.

When we were Pulling out of Subic Bay for another Line Period, I was on the Fantail for the Sea and Anchor Detail, and Yes Again I'm on the Sound Powered Phone connected to the Bridge. Everything was going Good.......All of a Sudden a few People come Running Out from the Hanger Bay telling me that someone Jumped off the Ship.......

Wednesday January 01, 2014 - 09:13 AM
Name: Donald e Joseph  
Rank/Rate: BT-3
Division/Squadron: MP
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 74-78
Location: Interlachen Florida USA
Comments: Happy new Years to all ship mates

Wednesday January 01, 2014 - 08:10 AM
Name: John H. Ranson  
Rank/Rate: QM2
Division/Squadron: N Div.
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 7/67-4/69
Location: Ft. Thomas Ky/ USA
Comments: Happy New Year to all Coral Sea Shipmates!!! Make a New Year's resolution to attend a reunion this year. Checkout the reunion tab on this website for more details.
Godspeed to all!!!

Tuesday December 31, 2013 - 11:54 PM
Name: Daniel L. Johnson  
Rank/Rate: SN Yeoman
Division/Squadron: 3rd Division, Deck Department
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965): 1971-1973
Location: Tombstone Arizona USA
Comments: Well It's been about 4 years ago when I last signed in. My old E-mail address was Busman12......I've changed it. I just wanted to try to sign in before anyone else for 2014 and looks like I did. Anyways in a day or two I have some stories to tell....but not right now. Just wanted to update myself. Being in 3rd Division, Deck Department as Yeoman for the Division I have a lot of friends. Roy Maxwell and I have been communicating for some Years. Anyone from 3rd Division during 1971-1973 I sure would like to hear from them. Also too, anyone just from Deck Department. I'm going to be transfering a lot of Movies that I took of the Cruise and especially in 3rd Division most of everyone in the Division could be on them......When this project is done I want to share the copies with My Shipmates. So get in touch with me.....It will be great to hear from everyone.

Name:    No Email Address
Rank/Rate:
Division/Squadron:
Years Aboard(ex:1963-1965):
Location:
Comments: