******************************************************************************
name:  Rich Brown
email: rbrown18@tampabay.rr.com
Date:  Thursday, June 12, 2003
Time:  05:38 PM

MESSAGE:

Came aboard as a LTJG in fall of "70 as DCA, R Div Officer. Did the end of the overhaul in Pearl, REFTRA, the "Chase the Russian Navy" mini cruise and Viet Nam cruise in Jan- Aug '72. I still have the cruise book. What an experience!. Went to shore duty in Pearl in fall of'72. Stayed there working for the Fleet Maintenance officer at CINCPACFLT. Was only a lowly LT. Got out to go to grad school in '76. Shrunk heads for a living many years, now am a writer and speaker. We were DESRON touch football champs if any of you were on those teams. Cheers, Rich

*******************************************************************************
name:  Chuck Broward
email: cbroward@attbi.com
Date:  Friday, June 27, 2003
Time:  08:41 PM

MESSAGE:

John Reagan. Email me, can't contact you at this email you left.
Tried many times.

*******************************************************************************
name:  gale gow
email: g143duchovny@earthlink.net
Date:  Sunday, July 06, 2003
Time:  09:14 AM

MESSAGE:

send me a e-mail if you remember me! was a cook on board. take care!

*******************************************************************************
name:  Glen Bragg
email: bragg@kpt.nuwc.navy.mil
Date:  Sunday, July 06, 2003
Time:  08:43 PM

MESSAGE:

HI BOY'S AND GIRLS
   WAS ON BOARD '72 - 74 ish IN THE AFTER FIRE ROOM WITH "UNCLE BILL ALBRIGHT " STILL STEAMING BOILERS AT KEYPORT WA. AND ALOT OF SNIPES AND STRAUSS-ITES STILL IN THE BREMERTON AREA, TAKE CARE , " TWEED" AND ALL THE BOYS SAY HI.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Rocky Sears
email: rockysears@mchsi.com
Date:  Monday, July 07, 2003
Time:  09:18 AM

MESSAGE:

Hey shipmates! I am Rocky Sears, FCCM USN Ret. and served on "Smokin' Joe " from '79 to '83. I see a lot of names I recognize Tim Boydstun, I remember all those folks you named.and I remember your promotion to CPO. Folks this guy, Tim Boydstun. could make just about anything. If I needed anything repaired, stretched, bent, straightened, or manufactured, Tim was the man.... Does anyone know the whereabouts of RON NEFF  ?  He was the NC aboard  Strauss same time frame. We, my wife Luisa and I, would love to find them. Wife Julie Son - Chris  and a daughter??... Y'all help me if ya' can... God bless... I need to read about how to join the org...

*******************************************************************************
name:  steve bowker
email: steve b @ aol.com
Date:  Monday, July 07, 2003
Time:  04:13 PM

MESSAGE:

rocky sears, i remember you...last know location of ncc neff was seattle, a little base on sandpoint way across from bremerton, prob closed by now i wud imagine...that was back in 84-86, hope this info helps you....maybe he lives there now?

*******************************************************************************
name:  Jay Hoegner
email: jhoegner@yahoo.com
Date:  Friday, August 01, 2003
Time:  08:08 PM

MESSAGE:

ahoy everyone...if there is anyone still reading this mess board!!!

is there anyone out there that served on board between 2/72 and 8/72 while the Strauss was in Vietnam and we got the unit citation listed on this website?  anyone out there wanna share memories?  a few months back i found out that the JS was decomissioned and sold to the Greeks in the 90's so that just goes to show you how out of the info flow i am.

-do you remember when the JS ran the air intercept on the first combat air kill over vietnam?  at least that is what i was told. i would like to confirm that though.

-do you remember on the way to nam all the hot, fresh cinnamon rolls that would appear on the bridge and in cic every morning before breakfast without being asked for?  that was me but only during my mess duty tour though!

-do you remember port and starboard for the entire wespac?

-do you remember losing our desalinization unit right out of pearl heading for nam and spending all the time at sea with just 60 seconds to shower?

-do you remember carrier duty for about 1 week when we were pulled off for shore bombarment to counter the NVA Feb 72 offensive?  that is the action that put us on our way to our unit citation!  we were supposed to be at wespac for 6 months but because of the offensive we were extended 2 months.  we missed out on australia but still got danang harbor (remember the landing craft filled with beer...hell of a liberty call!) and a chance to experience the sappers.  we did get hong kong and kowshung, japan (sp) and several hits at subic bay!  member when we took a few counter battery rounds between the stacks and the asroc launcher???  boy were the brass upset about that one...we did not wast any time returning to subic to off load the 'special ones' just in case we ever had a round impact while on the gunline.

-do you remember when we were almost hit by 2 rounds of shore counter battery while conducting gunnery runs as part of DesRon 33?  this is when we were under the comodore (don't remember his name) that had the nick-name of 'choo choo train' because when we made our runs against the coast we would line up one after the other like cars in a train.  the first round fell close amidships (don't remember port of starboard) and and the second right at the bow lifting us way up outta the water.  we were withing 2000 yds of shore and taking hits all around us and because of the close hits we had lost one boiler and propulsion was severly limited...i think that we limped outta there under about 5 knots, but we made it without any other damage.  as we were in gq and my station was in combat, i never saw anything....but i sure felt the ship move from side to side with the 1st shell and up at the bow with the second.  after this incident, we never used the choo choo train approach again...infact we got a new commodore too!  as a result of the damages sustained...  hell, we also had mud from the shots that fell close aboard on the top cross member of the mast!... we returned to Pearl and they ended up retro-fitting us with turbines!  i guess that was the reason we were able to make that speed run at 37 knots and earn the nick name...Smokin' Joe!

-do you remember the hang fire on the number one turret?  we had just finished our scheduled bombardment (i don't recall if it was 200, 300 or 500 rounds of 5 inchers) when one of the other destroyers (name?) had a mechanical problem and could not fire the 5 inchers.  we were told to assume the balance of their run.  after less than 10 rounds, we got a hang fire.  the evacuated the entire forward section.   the reason they evacuated was because another destroyer (name?) had one cook off and blew the forward turret open like a can of sardines killing the xo, gunnery officer, several gunnersmates and i think a chief...not sure.  i got photos of the damage when we were in port tied up along side her.  anyway, after we evacuated all forward areas, i snuck back up to the port bridge wing with my camera and snapped a quick pic of the fire hose hanging out of the turret.

-do you remember april fools day 1972 when we had 4 count them, 4 gq's, 4 bombarment  runs on the coast, 4 refuels, 4 re-armaments.  i think that there were 5 or 6 ships involved in this gunrun.  i even have shots of that along with some of the runs with a battleship (name?-might have been the mighty mo but i cant be sure).  i think that is when we lost a load of 5 inchers in the deep six when the seas got so rough we couldnt keep the line outta the water.

-remember hilo reps?  oh what a joy!

-do you remember when charlie came on our radio freq and said, "freet fox, freet fox...why you call yoself freet fox..we know you joseph strauss!"

-do you remember when the artillery spotter was calling in gunnery support on his own position while he was running down a trail somewhere south of the DMZ?  his call sign was 'wolfman' or 'wolfman jack" or "wolfman something".  he never made it...i cried that day cause we lost a guy that we had been talking to for months and he was like a brother to us all in cic.

-do you remember when an f4 crew went down on the coast and one crewmen went feet dry and the other feet wet?  the rescue hilo folks wanted us to sent a squad of marines ashore to help search...our xo said no 'cause we had no marines.  then rescue asked him to just give some m16's to some sailors and send them ashore...our xo said no again 'cause we had no training for that type of action (god bless his little pea pickin' heart!).  i even have a tape recording of the action...way cool!

-do you remember when one of the deck apes was practicing firing the 50 cal off amidships and had it braced agains his leg and the recoil popped an artery?

i dont remember all the names of my shipmates as it has been 30 years since, but we had 2 second class petty officers - one was cool and the sweetest guy you would ever wanna know...he was my favorite character of characters on ship.  he used to lounge back in his chair in cic and puff on a big green ceegar for all the newbies and make them all even sicker while we were underway.  the other 2nd class was famous for fart lighting...well we will leave that to another time.  i had lots of good memories though...even if i dont remember the names of the guys or the ships.  it will come back to me in time though.  Hey, i even got one of the Old Glorys that we flew underway.  a proud memento of my tour.

if anyone wants to add to or correct my mental aberations, or even chat...please do email me.  i am afraid that all my photos are in the possession of my ex and she will not give them up for some unknown reason.  in the meantime, i will try to remember some names....here are a few that just jumped into my head...do they sound familiar?

pardee, ltjg - operations/cic officer
castor, radarman 2nd class
sundheimer, radarman 3rd class

best wishes

jay
jhoegner@yahoo.com

*******************************************************************************
name:  Jay Hoegner
email: jhoegner@yahoo.com
Date:  Friday, August 01, 2003
Time:  08:15 PM

MESSAGE:

ahoy again everyone...a correction on my last posting...

we did not take counter battery from the shore that came close to hitting us but rather we ran into our own mines that they say drifted out of haiphong harbor.  as i recall there was another incident where one of our destroyers got hit amidships and did some major damage and it had to be towed back to port.  sorry for the mis info guys...the memories are still coming back...you know how it is when you are on heavy meds! lolol!

take care all...

*******************************************************************************
name:  Jay Hoegner
email: jhoegner@yahoo.com
Date:  Friday, August 01, 2003
Time:  09:12 PM

MESSAGE:

well, dont i feel foolish for leaving a novel on a message board...i guess you can tell who has never used a message board before. duhhhh...and that would be me!  my sincere apologies and i will try to be more brief (yeah as if i can) in the future.  >>another correction on my first before i go though regarding the 'Smokin' Joe' nickname and its origin...i do remember all the smoke we belched when going in and outta port but i was trying to be polite and show a little respect for the ole gal.  >>and names...i do remember Lt. Brown's name if your are still out there...but the face is a little fuzzy...can you help me out with a photo from the cruise book if you still have access to it? and does the cruize book have a complete or partial crew list in it or none at all to protect the innocent?  ha ha!  Sir, you probably dont remember the enlisted, but i arrived onboard the JS in late '71 and left in april of '73.  i was the one that was either chipping paint or sticking a camera in someones face.  in any case, i am  looking for the 2nd class radarman, whose name has totally escaped me, that was in cic...not 2po castor though.  this gentleman was about 23-25 years old, single, 6 ft'ish, 200# , athletic build, great sense of humor, excellent leader and a fine shipmate and sailor.  also a 3rd class radarman in cic named steve.  went to school at GLNTC and were assigned the JS right out of boot.>>that's it....thanks to anyone that takes the time to read and respond to my disassociated meanderings of no consequence or importance...also for any info that anyone can throw my way.

take care all :-)

*******************************************************************************
name:  Jay Hoegner
email: jhoegner@yahoo.com
Date:  Saturday, August 02, 2003
Time:  03:57 AM

MESSAGE:

Does anyone recall a 2nd Class Radarman last name Simpson on the '72 WesPac?  I dont recall his first name and he didnt have a nick name.  Would appreciate any leads.  Thanks.

*******************************************************************************
name:  cary "huff" huffman
email: manhworks@aol.com
Date:  Friday, August 08, 2003
Time:  04:07 PM

MESSAGE:

served aboard '69 to '73 in the foward fireroom.   don't remember the ship as "smok'n joe";but as the "gay jose".
captain's mast was my main activity.  contributed enough pay to buy stereo and TV along with another BT known as willie.  I believe everyone on ship can remember a story about me and my escapades with authority.  good to see the site!  until later smooth water--huff

*******************************************************************************
name:  Bob Dunham
email: rmdunham@verizon.net
Date:  Saturday, August 30, 2003
Time:  06:52 PM

MESSAGE:

Was on board from 11/63 to 8/66.  Would love to hear from any of the old "snipes". 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Vi Guerra
email: poodlesv@cia-g.com
Date:  Sunday, September 14, 2003
Time:  01:02 PM

MESSAGE:

Please remind all your ladies that are attending the  reunion next week to please bring something for the silent auction that we hold while the men are having their meeting .  Last year  we were close to a thousand dollars, be nice if we can top that.  the association needs the money girls.   See you  there, Vi Guerra

*******************************************************************************
name:  Frank SHERWIN
email: surewin6@juno.com
Date:  Tuesday, September 16, 2003
Time:  01:31 PM

MESSAGE:

GARY YOUNGBLOOD of VA 146, Vietnam, USS CONSTELLATION?

*******************************************************************************
name:  james bromagen
email: bigtazus@yahoo.com
Date:  Monday, September 22, 2003
Time:  12:18 PM

MESSAGE:

my wife enjoyed the reunion, hope to see all of you next year.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Ralph G. Mayhew
email: onyxman2000@email.com
Date:  Sunday, September 28, 2003
Time:  12:07 AM

MESSAGE:

Hi!  I just found this website dedicated to the USS Joseph Strauss while trying to find a picture of her for ol' times sake.
 
I was a shipmate/gunner's mate on her from 10/70-2/73, and participated in her cruise to 'Nam in '72 after an extensive refit at the Pearl shipyard.
 
I'm mostly interested in stories form other shipmates about "Gravy Train", a campaign during the Quang Tri (spelling optional) offensive.  The Strauss was the first to receive enemy fire and the first to return it.
 
Incidentally, I was one of the first to witness the enemy fire.  It was a hot, humid day and I was volunteered to get liquid refreshment for the mess deck.  So here I was with a tray of Pepsi's (and a coffee, go figure), just stepping out to the weather deck by the yeoman's office with a view of the 'Nam coast of in the distance a couple of miles when all of a sudden three explosions in succession about 70 yds starboard beam.  I chucked the tray overboard and sprinted for Mt 51.  I gained entry just as General Quarters sounded.
 
Any news about the Strauss hitting mines?
 
She didn't really "hit" them, the first went off a hundred or so yds ahead and a bit starboard.  BW#ANG!!!  The ship lifted a bit but heeled to the left signifigantly. 
 
 The E6 bailed and ran down the starboard side.  As he entered the windbreaker, the 2nd mine went off starboard beam. 
 
The ship really lifted this time.  I had a stereo cassette recorder on at the time and had an outstanding recording of the explosion.  The tape has been lost, though.
 
As he (the E6) cleared the windbreaker, the wash blown up was on it's way down, and nailed him but good.  He did an about face, and re-entered the gunmount a stinking, reeking mess.
 
The ship "dropped the load", lost all 4 boilers, and drifted for a spell.  Power was partially restored minutes later and she limped out to open sea.
 
Star & Stripes ran the story, but indicated the ship received 170 mm gunfire from shore.  We had a good laugh at that one.
 
Memory fails me here, but I thing we went to Subic for the drydock 'cause the sonar bubble was damaged.
 
But later (or earlier), we went in to Kaoshung, Taiwan for major repair to Mt 51, but I disrecollect how it was damaged.  It needed a new rammer.
 
Just a tale or two to get off my chest. I'd like to read other versions from shipmates.
 
Thanks.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Tim Zarifis
email: bmw226@mchsi.com ( Friend's)
Date:  Sunday, September 28, 2003
Time:  01:00 PM

MESSAGE:

76-77 #1 Boiler Room.... Still needs work I'm sure!!! Anyone who remembers me e me..
Tim Zarifis

*******************************************************************************
name:  Al Gryder
email: Alwinger6@aol.com
Date:  Tuesday, September 30, 2003
Time:  11:44 AM

MESSAGE:

Greetings Shipmates,
Just had to post a few comments about the 2003 reunion.
What a pleasure to see old shopmates again! The reunion was the best we have attended so far. Although it is a lot of work for a few, it is by far better than the Service we used before!
Many thanks to our hosts, Bill Cain and Bo Lee. It was a wonderful time. Your hard work and long hours really paid off.
Bravo Zulu

Al & Joyce Gryder
'64-'69

*******************************************************************************
name:  Rich Brown
email: rbrown18@tampabay.rr.com
Date:  Thursday, October 02, 2003
Time:  05:28 PM

MESSAGE:

Did the  19-20 Sep 2003 reunion in Chasn go off as sked in spite of Hurrican Isabel? If not, is there a resked?

*******************************************************************************
name:  ramiro l. villarreal--el chico
email: villrl27  @aol.com
Date:  Friday, October 10, 2003
Time:  02:42 PM

MESSAGE:

 flooking for fernando armstrong and gilbert chayra--known as please contact villrl27 at aol.comsonnyireman ramiro l villarreal--known on board as chico-

*******************************************************************************
name:  Edward M. Mckinney, Jr
email: chip728@comcast.net
Date:  Saturday, October 11, 2003
Time:  05:05 AM

MESSAGE:

I served on Smokey Joe from 73-75 as a STG1 in the sonar gang. Any sonarmen, torpedomen or asroc gunner's mates during that time can E-mail me. We had a great group and a good time in Hawaii. I remember when we were in Bremerton shipyard when my apartment was full of many drunken sailors on New Year's Eve. My wife loved all the guys in our division.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Bob Learner
email: learner@erols.com
Date:  Thursday, November 06, 2003
Time:  06:18 AM

MESSAGE:

GMCS Liddle was one of the two finest Gunner's Mates I met in my career in the Navy.  I remember him supervising the regunning of Mt 52 (might have been both mounts), I think in Subic Bay, but it might have been Pearl.  As I recall, shortly after we refinished, the yard asked GMCS Liddle to help regun one of the other ships in port.  He was more than happy to help out.

I saw GMCS Liddle shortly after he was transferred to shore duty following STRAUSS and remember asking him about the rag he had hanging out of his back pocket - I don't ever remember him being without one in his time on STRAUSS - and he told me that was so that the shore duty "pukes" never forgot where he was from and what was really important.

As with a handful of the other chiefs in STRAUSS, GMCS Liddle has been and will continue to me to be the embodiment of the best our Navy has to offer.

Bob Learner
FCO (76-79)

*******************************************************************************
name:  GEORGE LEES
email: NOT YET
Date:  Saturday, November 08, 2003
Time:  05:24 PM

MESSAGE:

 JUST VIEWED THE 2002 PICTURES, I DIDN'T KNOW ANYONE. ARE WE ALL OLD PEOPLE NOW? I SERVED ON FOUR SHIPS BEFORE RETREAD TIME , SO I CAN'T BE SURE WHAT SEA STORY GOES WITH WHAT SHIP . GOD BE WITH ALL WHO SERVED ON THE GAY JOSE,AND SMOKING JOE. IF YOU WERE NOT A GOOD SAILOR WHEN YOU CAME ABOARD YOU WERE WHEN YOU LEFT.
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Wayne Clark
email: wcwjj@yahoo.com
Date:  Tuesday, November 11, 2003
Time:  02:08 PM

MESSAGE:

I am trying to contact anyone that served with CPO Albert Hodson. Al was a member of the crew for her commisioning. I'd like to get photos of Al and any stories you may want to share. Thank you.

Wayne Clark
SFC, USA Ret.

*******************************************************************************
name:  GEORGE LEES
email: GEORGEPLEASE@MSN.COM
Date:  Saturday, November 15, 2003
Time:  05:27 PM

MESSAGE:

WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY GUNNERS OR MISSLE TYPES WHO REMEMBER ME , YEH I'M STILL ALIVE.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Joseph (Jake) Fryar
email: jake1@hawaii.rr.com
Date:  Saturday, November 29, 2003
Time:  09:53 AM

MESSAGE:

Shipmates;
                         Aloha from Hawaii!

Hope all my Strauss shipmates are well. I have been very
upset with the recent news about the USS C.F. Adams, I, as
a former crew member (1960/64) was involved in the effort  to bring the ship to Bay City Mich. for a museum. I floored by the
decision to abandon the effort. I have contacted the board of
directer and voiced my opposition to this action.

             I have been told that the money donated will be used
bring USS Edson from New York City to Bay City. I Think the money should be held for future efforts to save Adams or a
Adams class ship. I have contacted Bay City Times and I
submitted a letter to the editor that will be published. I urge
all my shipmates to do the same.

Shipmates, we need to come together and make an effort to save one of the ADAMS CLASS SHIPS.

                           All my best,

                               Joseph (Jake) Fryar GMMC USN (Ret)

                                USS C.F. ADAMS (DDG-2)

                                USS TOWERS  (DDG-9)

                                USS JOSEPH STRAUSS (DDG-16)

*******************************************************************************
name:  Mike Turso
email: miketurso@comcast.net
Date:  Sunday, November 30, 2003
Time:  06:05 PM

MESSAGE:

Hello to all.  My name is Mike Turso and my father served some time on the Strauss from 1974-1976.  He was a BTFN.  My father passed away in September of 1998 due to a skydiving accident.  I am his only child, and my mom and I are just looking for some possible familiar names that might be still around.  If possible, and if you knew my father, I would love to hear from you.  I read on some posts that some people have pictures, I would love to see some pictures of my dad.  Sure do miss him, and hope to hear from anyone that may have served during those years.  Oh yea, He was in "B" division.  Thanks alot...
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Mark Lampo
email: mark1107@clab.net
Date:  Wednesday, January 21, 2004
Time:  07:43 AM

MESSAGE:

I'll never forget being thrown in the brig for mouthing off to LTJG Frederick San Giuliano III (or "San Juan" as I liked to be called). San Juan miraculously came down with "night blindness" after his first (and only) month at sea, and was transferred to the mainland. The Navy insists it's zero's walk on water, be they malingering cowards or drug addicts. Enlisted men are still to be mad an example of. Not much has changed since Churchill said, "I'll give you Naval Tradition in just three words; rum, sodomy, and the lash!"
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Cary "huff" Huffman
email: manhworks@aol.com
Date:  Tuesday, February 03, 2004
Time:  01:18 PM

MESSAGE:

just wondering if anyone else has try to get evidence if the Strauss was exposed to Agent Orange. I have all the signs and never left the Ship all 4 years I was in

*******************************************************************************
name:  Chuck "AH" Aho
email: chuckaho@direcway.com
Date:  Thursday, February 05, 2004
Time:  03:43 PM

MESSAGE:

Posting my new email address.  Still waiting to hear from any "R" Division bums from '74 to '77 era.  Especially any HT's.  Freddie, Hop, you out there?

*******************************************************************************
name:  Capt James E Riley, JAGC, USN (Ret)
email: jriley15@sc.rr.com
Date:  Sunday, February 08, 2004
Time:  05:48 PM

MESSAGE:

Just found this web site and read the posted msgs.  I was a plank owner as the ass't CIC Officer.  From reviewing this site, I remember Joe Turk and Bob Sandoval but not many other names.  Left the ship shortly after we homeported in Youksuka.  Eventually joined JAG and retired in 1991.  Now living in North Myrtle Beach, SC.  Have many fond memories of getting a great ship started in the Navy.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Terry Quick
email: mor_digital@yahoo.com
Date:  Thursday, March 04, 2004
Time:  02:33 AM

MESSAGE:

My sincerest compliments on your website.  Keeping the memory of the DDG-2 Class alive is an honorable endeavor.

Terry Quick
FC2 USS Towers (DDG-9)
1986-1989

*******************************************************************************
name:  Brian Walker  (a friend of Tim Zarifis)
email: bmw226@mchsi.com
Date:  Thursday, March 04, 2004
Time:  07:53 PM

MESSAGE:

I was on the Coral Sea and a friend was on the Strauss (Tim Zarifis) so I check out both web-sites. I must say this web site just flat out kicks. Below is a story & link to a site of a picture I thought you all would like.

Subject: Painted Rock

This huge rock is located on highway 25 in Iowa, and kids used to put obscenities etc. on it. Since the rock was painted like this, it's been left alone. This rock is in Adair County, between Greenfield and I-80. The kid that painted it is a local guy, named Bubba. This kid is really talented; take a look at it Be sure to scroll all the way down to see all sides of the rock.

http://www.ticz.com/homes/users/bob/On-A-Rock/On-A-Rock.htm

 
*******************************************************************************
name:  Sondra
email: TheSonOfJohn@aol.com
Date:  Monday, March 08, 2004
Time:  06:05 PM

MESSAGE:

I have recently acquired a lovely silver tray with the engraving, "Aloha Diane USS Joseph Strauss 1969 - 1971".  I was just wondering if anyone might have any information about this tray, person or date.  I am in Baldwin Co., Alabama and this is also where I found this item.  Thank You!!

*******************************************************************************
name:  Dottie Beasley
email: DaBzzzs@aol.com
Date:  Thursday, March 11, 2004
Time:  04:47 PM

MESSAGE:

to anyone that was aboard in Aug of 77 in Hawaii my brother was and died in town two days before ship was due to pull out was buried in punch bowl was shot by someone or self I never found out the truth would love to hear from someone that knew
 my brother name Felton Demo Rader (bud or Dee) please let me know if you knew him
Thank you
Dottie

*******************************************************************************
name:  Samuel H Miller
email: MISCMILLER@aol.com
Date:  Friday, March 12, 2004
Time:  03:57 AM

MESSAGE:

looking for sm3 blankenship and any body else i served with  while on the smokin joe 1987 to 1988

*******************************************************************************
name:  Greg Ralph
email: gregrnla21@yahoo.com
Date:  Saturday, March 13, 2004
Time:  08:16 PM

MESSAGE:

Check out the Strauss in the Greek Navy.

http://www.charlesfadams.com/stillserving/d220/d220.htm

*******************************************************************************
name:  Michael Martin
email: pamnmike13@aol.com
Date:  Friday, March 19, 2004
Time:  05:19 PM

MESSAGE:

Hey all!
         Just found this website. Brought back lots of memoiies, rescuing the vietnamese refugees, the trip into the sea of Okosk, two westpacs, the Hawaiian we rescued, P.I........
Was onboard from 79-82. OS in CIC. Chief Bomar I still hear ya. Made it to E-5 in three years and busted down to E-3 in twenty minutes by an Ensign I'll not name but can. Remember LTCDR Flood? I think it was in Hong Kong he met his end.
Go Smokin Joe................................................
                                                              Living In Tennessee,
                                                                               Michael

*******************************************************************************
name:  John E. Arnold
email: JArnoldret@aol.com
Date:  Friday, March 19, 2004
Time:  06:21 PM

MESSAGE:

For Sondra:

       I was the Commanding Officer from August 1969 to April 1971.  During the period 1969 - 1971, we had a LT in the Weapons Department, Gary Rickman, whose wife's name was Diane.  I don't know if that is a connection to your tray, but it might be a lead.  Good luck.

                    John E. Arnold
                    Captain, USN (Ret.)

*******************************************************************************
name:  Leonard Stevenson
email: youngblood
Date:  Tuesday, March 23, 2004
Time:  09:51 AM

MESSAGE:

looking for anyone in forward boilerroom in 1980-1984

*******************************************************************************
name:  Tom Higley
email: twhisc@adelphia.net
Date:  Tuesday, March 23, 2004
Time:  07:19 PM

MESSAGE:

Mark Lampo

Your memory is almost there, but GMG1 made chief that year he wanted to blow up the PH shore patrol.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Kenneth Epperson
email: mackieboy@aol.com
Date:  Friday, April 02, 2004
Time:  09:38 PM

MESSAGE:

I found this web site a few days ago and I have enjoyed reading the messages. Served aboard the "Gay Jose" from April of 1965 until Febuary of 1968. Most of the time I was in first division, If you remember me drop me a e-mail I would enjoy hearing from some of the ole gang.I read where Joe Duck made CPO, why am I not suprised.I'm just suprised he didn't make captian. (HA)If you have the cruise book from that time I,m in the back roll under the gun barrel.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Tammy
email: tbennet1@nycap.rr.com
Date:  Tuesday, April 06, 2004
Time:  07:24 PM

MESSAGE:


   I read all the material on your website with great interest.  My husband served on the USS Joseph Strauss from 71-74.  He has developed Adult Onset Type ll Diabetes which has been linked to Agent Orange.  We have been trying to gain assistance with this situation from the VA but we are told because he wasn't "In-Country" he will not receive the compensation he deserves.  It is believed if he can "Prove" he was "Up-River", then his claim will most likely be approved.  I have exhausted almost all avenues but I do continue searching different websites in hopes of finding the "Proof" we need. Perhaps, someone here  may be able to remember if the Strauss was up-river.   
    It is sad that the VA has access to this info and we do not, and WE have to prove it!
    I thank you in advance for reading this and hope you may have some info.
    Tammy

*******************************************************************************
name:  Steven "Andy" Anderson
email: sjnanders@cs.com
Date:  Wednesday, April 07, 2004
Time:  05:35 AM

MESSAGE:

Tammy:  What is your husband's name?  I served on the Strauss all of 73 and 74 as an Electrician's Mate.  About 4 years ago I too developed Type II diabetes.  Is there a trend here?  Anyone else dealing with the same issue?

*******************************************************************************
name:  Tammy
email: tbennet1@nycap.rr.com
Date:  Tuesday, April 13, 2004
Time:  09:06 AM

MESSAGE:

Mr. Anderson,
    Thank you for responding to my post. My husbands name is Charles Bennett  BT3.  There appears to be many sailors developing these same symptoms.  We have been told if any of you had stepped ONE FOOT on shore or we could prove the ship went "Up-River" (which it did) you would be covered (disability) for Type ll diabetes, but because we can not prove the ship was "Up-River" he will not be covered.  We were told that "Buddy Statements" would be acceptable.  Charlie is unsure what rivers and when because of the chaotic nature of the times. He knows one of the rivers was the Cau Viet but not sure when.  Are you aware of any dates or locations that we are not?  Any help will be beneficial to not only Charlie, but many others as well.  Thanks so much.
    Tammy
 
 
p.s. Charlie says he remembers you!
    Welcome Home!
   
*******************************************************************************
name:  MIKE (SCATMAN) CONNELLY
email: SVCMIKE@AOL.COM
Date:  Friday, April 16, 2004
Time:  06:24 PM

MESSAGE:

I WAS UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT A PERSON COULD APPLY FOR BENEFITS FROM EXPOSURE TO AGENT ORANGE IF HE (OR SHE) SERVED ABOARD A SHIP THAT WAS ENGAGED IN CLOSE SUPPORT OFF VIET NAM.  I AM NOW TOLD THAT YOU HAD TO DISEMBARK IN VIET NAM TO BE ELIGIBLE.  IF ANYONE CAN SHED ANY LIGHT ON THIS SUBJECT I WOULD BE MORE THAN APPRECIATIVE.  THANKS IN ADVANCE.

MIKE-SCATMAN-CONNELLY ETN3/ETNSN/ETN3 '64-'67
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Albert Rodriguez
email: qbanmom4@charter.net
Date:  Sunday, May 09, 2004
Time:  05:11 PM

MESSAGE:

Hi,  I just found an emblem from the USS Joseph Strauss DDG 16.  If anyone is interested in  having this piece of history, I have it listed on ebay. Find it here: www.ebay.com   and search under item #2243696761.  Anyone having any information on this item can  email me at Qbanmom4@charter.net.  Thanks, Albert 

*******************************************************************************
name:  PHILIP E. HOOPER
email: phihoop2@bellsouth.net
Date:  Friday, June 18, 2004
Time:  01:22 PM

MESSAGE:

I was gun director operator 1965 1966 we fired many missions
also served aboard USS ENTERPRISE, USS O'CALLAHAN,
USS PREBLE. It is a true story that we KO'ed a indian
elephant. phil hooper, FTG3,2. Would be glad hear from
an old shipmate. phihoop2@bellsouth.net
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Bill Leslie
email: bill.leslie@verizon.net
Date:  Friday, June 18, 2004
Time:  07:54 PM

MESSAGE:

Proud to have served on the USS Joseph Strauss.. 1970,1971 westpac to vietnam.  Was a radioman but also ran with the signal crowd.  Anyone serving at that time please e-mail.  I get around the U.S. quite a bit and might stop by for a cup of joe.  Anyone traveling to the Coast of Oregon give me a ring. Had a mean ass chief...  RMC Johnson.. but now that i look back on it he wasnt all that bad. Will check in from time to time and say hi.  Will also try to make it to the next reunion. Ride fast and Ride hard.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Barbara Wade
email: bwade155@bellsouth.net
Date:  Friday, June 18, 2004
Time:  11:48 PM

MESSAGE:

Hi
My Dad was on the Strauss, unsure of exact dates, but he was on it when it was commissioned and then onto Viet Nam so about '63 to '66.  He was/is Chief Shipfitter, Thomas H. Wade, and lives in Mississippi now.  Would appreciate hearing from old shipmates.
Thanks, Barb

*******************************************************************************
name:  Bob Felber
email: robertf@acpwa.org
Date:  Thursday, June 24, 2004
Time:  12:57 PM

MESSAGE:

3-68 to 8-71  R-Division.   I would like to hear from old friends/shipmates.  Dave Foltz,  Mike Fanning,  Wendel Tom, "Rose" Florist, IC1 "Mac", Signalmen Gang, and any others who remember me.... 
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Albert Malone
email: maeleoin2002@yahoo.com
Date:  Thursday, June 24, 2004
Time:  06:47 PM

MESSAGE:

Anyone from WestPac '73 out there?  I was an FTG in GM Division.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Charlie Bennett
email: bennettc@nycap.rr.com
Date:  Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Time:  12:23 PM

MESSAGE:

My wife found a study on line concerning blue water sailors and
exposure to agent orange . It was done by the Austrailian government and later confirmed by an American University but
it escapes me as to which one. The study NRCET explains why
blue water sailors have been exposed. To all interested see for
yourself. By the way The HMAS Perth was one of 3 Adams class DDG's owned by the Austrailian Navy.
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  mike racicot
email: mikeracicot@hotmail.com
Date:  Tuesday, August 03, 2004
Time:  08:37 AM

MESSAGE:

I'm looking to contact any of the old FOX division members from 82-84. Anybody have a line on GMM Ken "Sluggo" Slack?

*******************************************************************************
name:  John Price (JP)
email: jfp1057@yahoo.com
Date:  Tuesday, August 03, 2004
Time:  07:26 PM

MESSAGE:

Sandman, got your message. Hear's my e-mail address. Hope to hear from you soon.  JP

*******************************************************************************
name:  Edward "Andy" Anderson
email: miranda189@cfl.rr.com
Date:  Monday, August 09, 2004
Time:  08:33 AM

MESSAGE:

Retired GMGC, served aboard the Joseph Strauss from 28 July 1971 to 2 July 1976. Would like to hear from anyone who was on board during those years. Especially anyone knowing Billy Albright, Mack Mcdonald.

*******************************************************************************
name:  steve bowker
email: bowkerstv@aol.com
Date:  Thursday, August 12, 2004
Time:  06:29 AM

MESSAGE:

well shipmates finally have a pc and e mail and i dont have to use the work computer  and good to be back on board the fleet fox see names of people i know served on board 79-84 

*******************************************************************************
name:  John P. Morrill 2nd   FTG2
email: jmorril4@maine.rr.com
Date:  Friday, August 13, 2004
Time:  09:13 AM

MESSAGE:

Served on board  USS JOSEPH STRAUSS DDG 16 from 1978 to 1981 when I left the navy

*******************************************************************************
name:  James L. Turner
email: turnerj_c@hotmail.com
Date:  Thursday, August 26, 2004
Time:  12:01 PM

MESSAGE:

For those like me who will have to miss the reunion and will be in Hawaii 18 Sept. The Navy will commission it newest DDG.
The Chung-Hoon DDG 93 will be commissioned at Ford Island on SAT. 18 Sept 2004. I have to be there but it is great sight  to see one of our new ships being brought to life.  Hope some of you Hawaiian retreads can make it.
Jim (Lester) Turner Plank Owner and 1978-81

*******************************************************************************
name:  Steven "Andy" Anderson
email: sjnanders@cs.com
Date:  Tuesday, September 14, 2004
Time:  08:34 AM

MESSAGE:

I've posted before, but I need some information.  I was on the Strauss all of 73 and 74 (Electrician's Mate).  In 1973 we made a WestPac cruise - does anyone know the dates we were there or when we left and returned to Pearl Harbor?  I'm thinking of joining the VFW and one of the questions they have deals with medals.  My DD-214 only shows the National Defense Service Medal, which doesn't seem to qualify me for the VFW.  I would have thought we would have been awarded some type of Vietnam medal for the 73 WestPac cruise.  Did we not get there in time to qualify for a medal - I know the Vietnam war was winding down while we were there, but we were still doing escort duty.  Thanks for your help on this.

*******************************************************************************
name:  R. Taylor
email: Ryeberto@aol.com
Date:  Friday, September 24, 2004
Time:  07:47 PM

MESSAGE:

What a "blast from the past" accidentally coming across this website!  Brings back lots of memories of my years as a navy wife with the Strauss in Japan.

I am trying to locate Joe and Anne McVay, old friends from Japan and Hawaii.  I lost track of them a few years ago.  Does anyone have any information re the Mc Vays? 

I will greatly appreciate any information anyone can offer.  By the way--great website!   Bobbie (Gamron) Taylor

*******************************************************************************
name:  Bob Felber
email: robertf@acpwa.org
Date:  Monday, September 27, 2004
Time:  08:44 AM

MESSAGE:

It's great that this web site exists, it brings back many memories.  I served aboard the Strauss 3-68 to 8-71 in R-division.  As we recall our experiences, we should take a few moments to remember those who didn't come home from Viet-Nam.  An excellent web site to visit is vvmf.org.  The Viet-Nam Veterans Memorial Fund.  Good Veteran's Day....
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  William Manuel ETN2 USS BEARSS
email: wmanuel2@cinci.rr.com
Date:  Thursday, October 14, 2004
Time:  06:06 PM

MESSAGE:

I AM TRYING TO FIND A DESRON 28 PATCH FROM THE EARLY 60's. I WILL BUY IF YOU WANT TO SELL OR IF YOU WOULD EMAIL ME A GOOD PICTURE SO I CAN HAVE SOME MADE.
THANKS,
BILL M

*******************************************************************************
name:  Arthur Pashalidis
email: elenasakis@acn.gr
Date:  Friday, October 29, 2004
Time:  01:03 PM

MESSAGE:

Hello, to all my American fellows!
I was born and raised in Australia,at the age of 15 I left " Down Under" to live permanetly in Greece. I've been living here since 1987, and in 1992 I was drafted in the Greek navy. Fortunetely  for me I was one of those lucky sailors to get transfered to San Diego.It was a great experience and had probably the best 4 months of my life. Our ship H.S  Formion (ex-Joseph Strauss) was probably in the worse condition out of the 4 Adams class ships that Greece picked up, but it turned out to be the strongest one of them all.In 450 days of  my service in the Greek navy I did 275 days on board. It was sad to hear that H.S Formion has been decomissioned. I'll never forget all those great memories I had with the ship and in San Diego.
Thanks for everything.If anybody has any photos of those days I would love to see them!

*******************************************************************************
name:  Dan Brooks  MM3-2  1971-75
email: danielb@goldrush.com
Date:  Friday, October 29, 2004
Time:  08:48 PM

MESSAGE:

Iam trying to get hold of any of the snipes from my era. I would be especially like to hear from Mike Carr, MM1 Murphy,  Grampa, MM1 Later  Senior Chiek,  Holloway, or Don Colvin. I heard from Don And Tried to get back in touch with him , but for some reason I do not seem able to connect.  I retired from the Navy in 1991 and now am a high school teacher. Anyway I would be glad to hear from anyone        Dan
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Bob Gabby Gaboury
email: BobGaboury@aol.com
Date:  Sunday, November 07, 2004
Time:  03:59 PM

MESSAGE:

Hello to all,
I was aboard the Strauss as a plank owner, I graduated from IC C Automatic Telephone school, went to Newport RI for all the Pre-Comm Stuff and then boarded the Strauss in Philly, rode her through the Panama Canal with a few memorable port calls, then on to Long Beach, transferred to shore duty just prior to her leaving for West Pac, Derheim, Klenna, Miller, Cates and Bailey, were all part of the IC Gang in those days.
Just enjoyed reading some of the history that is posted on this web site.  To the webmaster "Great Web Page" My good cruising Buddy was Paul McGoverm EM2, just had a reunion with him last summer in Tyngsford, MA
Ya' all cruise safely, with following winds.
All emails from old and new shipmates are well appreciated, I respond to all.
Gabby Out

*******************************************************************************
name:  jamesbromagen
email: jamesbromagen@yahoo.com
Date:  Thursday, November 18, 2004
Time:  06:59 AM

MESSAGE:

Just viewed the pictures of the 04 reunion, lookes like you had a great time, sorry we had to miss it. see you next year.
 

*******************************************************************************
name:  Eric Metelits
email: ericmetelits@hotmail.com
Date:  Friday, November 26, 2004
Time:  11:27 PM

MESSAGE:

I am looking for anyone who has any information on the where abouts of James G. Spooner. Please contact me if you know anything. Spoonbo or Jim Spooner.

*******************************************************************************
name:  Ray Berilla
email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date:  Friday, December 24, 2004
Time:  02:13 PM

MESSAGE:

Think Agent Orange couldn't have affected Blue Water Sailors? Think again. A study by the Center for Disease Control found that a disproportionate number of blue water sailors who served aboard ships off the coast of Viet Nan have Agent Orange-related diseases such as non-Hotchins Lyphoma and Type II Diabetes.
I have recently received the following information from a friend and am passing it along in the hopes that someone can help with more information. Thanks.
Ray Berilla
USS Joseph Strauss webmaster

 UPDATE ON THE AGENT ORANGE ISSUE FOR BLUE WATER NAVY VETERANS OF VIETNAM ERA.

After a year of daily research on the subject of "Dioxin" and Agent Orange it has been found that a chemical called "Silvex" was used aboard Naval units operating off shore in the Gulf of Tonkin. Silvex has the same chemical make up as Agent Orange Herbicide. Does anyone ever remember seeing those little square red cans of "weed killer" aboard any ship afloat. Product name is "WeedOne", having personally spoken to several naval personnel aboard various naval ships at the time (the men who worked in (water tenders labs, and evaporators). I'm told by these people that several
gallons a day were added to the fresh water tanks to keep down algae growth in the tanks. This particular weed killer contains "Silvex" and Dioxin. I need some actual documentation or notarized statements to attest to the fact
this chemical was used aboard ships. I'm going before Congress after January 2005, to testify about the use of this chemical, with additional proof it will enable us to get all the navy blue water vets disability compensation. Let's hear from anyone that has any information. mikeleach46@yahoo.com

*******************************************************************************
name:  ernie frazier
email: gfraz88@aol.com
Date:  Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Time:  07:02 AM

MESSAGE:

Aboard '62 - '65.......GM Division
Start:  Camden, N J
End  :  Yokosuka

TO:  GEORGE LEES AND DENNIS DALE
         Saw where you two made contact on this web site.
         The postings were from 2003.......but maybe you  still
         check in occasionally, and will see this.  If so, it would be
         so great to hear from you.
                  email :  gfraz88@aol.com
                  phone:  205-302-0007
                                205-300-2578
                                205-275-0051

                                                      Frazier

*******************************************************************************
name:  Robert Swann OS2(SW) 84-88
email: robert.swann@us.army.mil
Date:  Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Time:  06:40 AM

MESSAGE:

Looking to get in contact with Dave Hanson RM2 or anyone OS's who served from 84-88.
 

Name: Bruce Phelps
Email: phelpski@frontiernet.net
Date: Sunday, August 21, 2005
Time: 09:11 AM

MESSAGE

Just to let you know I have a new email address.

Name: Ector G. Villanueva (Vic)
Email: evillanueva@carlwalker.com-
Date: Monday, August 22, 2005
Time: 09:59 AM

MESSAGE

Hello, my name is Ector G. Villanueva (Vic). I served aboard the Strauss from 1966 to 1970. I have a bad case of diabetes and I am going before the VA to try to get compensation. I need to know if anyone remembers the year, month and name of the river we went into and anchored on one of our H and I missions. Is there anyway we can access the ships navigation log. Something that will help all of us is the month and year of all of our tours in Vietnam. You can reach me at ector@villanueva.com, evillanueva@carlwalker.com, or mi cell number (727) 735-1233.

Name: GMG1
Email: LSCHAEFER8311@CHARTER.NET
Date: Monday, August 29, 2005
Time: 08:26 PM

MESSAGE

I FELT SORRY FOR THE POOR GREEKS WHEN THEY GOT STUCK WITH THE WARTSHIP

Name: Ector G. Villanueva
Email: ector@villanueva.com
Date: Friday, September 02, 2005
Time: 07:03 AM

MESSAGE

I am trying to find out the names of all shipmates that have developed adult onset type II diabetes. If you have, please send me your name and when you were aboard. I was aboard from 1966 to1970. I live in Clearwater FL. (727) 735-1233

Name: Bill Rothrock
Email: rockskiing@comcast.net
Date: Monday, September 05, 2005
Time: 07:45 PM

MESSAGE

Hay John Price! How's you little brother doing? Long time. Hope all is well... 1982-1985 Fox Division, 51 Radar...

Name: STG-1 Jim Dale
Email: jimdale@pacbell.net
Date: Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Time: 11:32 PM

MESSAGE

Recently found this web site. AS Division from '75 to '79, two Westpacs. That's me tossing the heaving line on the second page of the crew photos page. Will be doing alot of scanning and contributing of pics. Thanks to Phil Byrd for steering me to this site. Had a reunion with him and his wife Barb a few weeks ago after about 28 years! Great memories. Jim

Name: mitch murray
Email: mitchmurray@ureach.com
Date: Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Time: 12:21 PM

MESSAGE

I'm looking for an ex-shipmate, FTM1 James E. Sheets, onboard about 1980-81, anyone know his whereabouts?

Name: OS 3 Timothy E. Caldwell 84-87
Email: caldwellcorral@earthlink.net
Date: Monday, January 22, 2007
Time: 06:11 PM

MESSAGE

To my shipmates and friends aboard the "smokin' Joe": I recently became aware of the website and was pleased to read some words from people of my past. Robert Swann: Do you remember that POS baby blue firebird you had that Kenny Hastings and I "borrowed" for one of our many Waikiki retreats? James Spooner: We knew each other before we arrived aboard the Strauss. I have no idea where he is now, but I'm guessing he doesn't have any eyebrows. I'm looking for the other pirates who ran with me as patners in crime, Kenny Hastings, Vic McCune, John Aluschek(sp?), Jimbo, Walt Anderson, Jesse Kindel, Gordy Ross, Earl Rogers...So many names. Any leads or solid contacts can call or write me. Dr. Timothy E. Caldwell 601 E 5th Street Peabody, KS 66866

Name: Dr David Crist
Email: dc1962@verizon.net
Date: Sunday, January 28, 2007
Time: 01:19 PM

MESSAGE

I am a historian working on a book on Earnest Will/Praying Mantis. I am trying to find CAPT Sam Anderson. Would anyone happen to know where he lives? I heard he retired in San Diego?

Name: Larry Gordon (FTCS ret.)
Email: deferdaniel@softhome.net
Date: Thursday, February 01, 2007
Time: 06:09 AM

MESSAGE

Just found this website. Great to hear the comments from former shipmates and other 'Tin Can' sailors that served in USS Joseph Strauss. As I scrolled through the comments, I noticed that there were several comments related to Diabetes Type II and Agent Orange exposure. I too have developed Diabetes Type II and suspect that Agent Orange may have contributed to this condition. I strongly suspect that all hands aboard Strauss during the 1972 WESTPAC tour was exposed to Agent Orange and possible other defoliants. I have recently filed a claim with VA for disability compensation. In the process I have come across some information that may help in your case. If anyone would like to exchange notes on the subject of Agent Orange and Diabetes Type II please contact me. (360) 373-2848

Name: thomas royal
Email: thomas11113@cox.net
Date: Friday, February 09, 2007
Time: 07:39 PM

MESSAGE

i was on board the strauss from JAN63 to SEPT64. [jan to may 63 was precom detail] took her to west coast then on to yoko. japan. ran the gig for awhile,,, was bm3....like to hear from anyone who knew me......RETIRED IN 1988 AS BMCM THANKS

Name: John VanGiesen
Email: johnvg32@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Time: 06:18 PM

MESSAGE

I am looking for James B. Mauldin. He was an EN1, made ENC in 78 when he left Strauss headed for a Fleet Tug in San Diego. I think his home of record was Oklahoma City in case he may have settled there after retirement Also would like to find MMCS Skinner and MMCS Miller whom were also aborad when I was.

Name: William Goforth
Email: govikes@mhtc.net
Date: Saturday, March 03, 2007
Time: 02:03 PM

MESSAGE

Hey Shipmates Served 8-79 6-82 Served under cmdr Benepe me and my wife are going to san fransico the first week of may i sent an e-mail to shelly one of the boat people remember 7-15-80 am very excited send me an e-mail wuold like to chat BM2 Goforth

Name: William Cooper
Email: wjcooper@aol.com
Date: Saturday, March 03, 2007
Time: 07:06 PM

MESSAGE

Member of westpac 72 crew. FTM3, part of Campodonico's team. Interesting to read some of the notes from those I served with while I was on the Strauss. Looking for some help. I am trying to raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in honor of my mother-in-law who has Lymphoma and my mother who passed away on new years eve from cancer. I have a web site that explains why in more detail. http://www.active.com/donate/tntcoh/tntcohWCooper2 I sincerely appreciate any support you can provide. My nickname during the cruise was Billy Joe.

Name: Dan Brooks MM3 71-75
Email: danielb@goldrush.com
Date: Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Time: 09:28 PM

MESSAGE

Would be glad to hear from anyone who served during my tenure. I started contract acouple of years ago but heath problems slowed me down for awhile. Made contact with Mike Fry MM3 and have had a couple of nice visits with him. be glad to hear from anyone else

Name: Doreen Roach
Email: punkintaya@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Time: 02:26 AM

MESSAGE

I am looking for Rob "Animal" Kerr. He was aboard during the early 80's. If you know what happened to him--please let me know. And anyone else who remembers me, please drop me a line! Thanks!!!

Name: Jon Asai
Email: jasai@leo.gov
Date: Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Time: 09:06 AM

MESSAGE

Just signed up for membership, website looks great, wish there were more from Operation Preying Mantis pictures. RMC (SW) Retired

Name: bill sundstrom
Email: judy.sundstrom@megapathdsl.net
Date: Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Time: 10:01 AM

MESSAGE

hi my name is bill sundstrom. I server aboard the Strauss from commissioning 1963 in Philly to Long Beach Naval Shipyard in july 1964. I just found this web site and can't believe all the old info listed. Some of the old pictures bring back memories all good ones. I saw one of my old shipmates Joel Chance. If you see this message, send me a note. I love to talk with you or anyone from the old Fox division.

Name: Allen Schultz, Spc4, US Army 1975-'78 / '92-'97
Email: globalgood@savingtomorrow.org
Date: Monday, April 02, 2007
Time: 07:19 AM

MESSAGE

Greetings. My name is Allen Schultz and I live in Mount Morris, NY; birthplace and home to Rear Admiral Joseph Strauss. I am looking for any information I can retrieve that might shed light on the life and endeavors of Admiral Strauss. I've had little success in finding personal, historical information on him and I'm contacting "any member" of "any crew" who might be able and willing to extend a helping hand. Mount Morris would like to qualify the proud history of this man and his accomplishments, but I'm not certain where exactly to search. I'm hoping someone can help as we look for a way to seek official recognition of his birthplace and home. Any information will be greatly appreciated, and treated with all the respect it deserves. Contributors will be duly noted in any display, monument, designation or presentation built in honor of Admiral Strauss in Mount Morris, NY. Please contact me by email at: ASchultz@rochester.rr.com or GlobalGood@savingtomorrow.org Thank you in advance for any help offered as this is a concerted effort on behalf our historic Village. We eagerly await any response. Thank you again. Respectfully, Allen Schultz

Name: Steve Clark (BT 84-88)
Email: stevec298@juno.com
Date: Friday, April 06, 2007
Time: 02:58 PM

MESSAGE

Thankyou Dennis Beach. I just got in touch with Jon Ward because of your posting. Does anyone know of David Lavicki (sp?) aka MONGO, or Salvador Rodriquez. A machinist mate and boiler technician respectively. Both were onboard in the mid 80's. I have no idea if my email will post so here it is, stevec298@juno.com.

Name: Michael B. Oerther
Email: michaelocpi@fewpb.net
Date: Saturday, April 07, 2007
Time: 07:58 AM

MESSAGE

I served on USS Sampson DDG 10 and I picked up my new checks from the bank with United States ships printed on the face. With the one marked destroyer I found USS Joseph Strauss DDG 16. Charles F. Adams class as is the Sampson. Whenever I write a check with distroyer picture I alwasy think of Sampson and of you fellow saylors. Best of luck to all. Michael B. Oerther RM3 USS Sampson DDG 10 1968-1970

Name: John Whitehurst
Email: cuervoblue@mail4truckers.com
Date: Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Time: 06:38 AM

MESSAGE

To O.I. division (1988-89), Hope you guys are doing well. Almost 20 years since that infamous day of 18 April 88, when we showed the Iranians not to mess with us. Special hello to Mattox, Smitty, Shuska, QM2 Larry Jones and especially "cuppa Joe" Mark Carney and all the rest. It has been so long that there are many names I can't think of now. Have pride that In our youth we sacrificed for a noble cause. "the memories of a man in his old age are the deeds of a man in his prime."- Pink Floyd John Whitehurst El Paso TX

Name: Doreen Roach
Email: angelfthr2@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, May 07, 2007
Time: 02:18 AM

MESSAGE

Not sure what happened--but someones message got mixed up with mine! I am looking for Rob'Animal' Kerr! He served in the early 80's. We were roomates in Aiea for a short time. I know he got out about 1983 and went to work in the Shipyards at Pearl but lost track of him after that. I went on the Dependents Cruise in 1985. If you know what happened to Rob or remember me please e-mail me! I'd love to hear from you! Dee

Name: yiannis
Email: yiannishellenivnavy@yahoo.gr
Date: Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Time: 05:51 AM

MESSAGE

I was on this ship for 7 years in the Greek Navy. It was the Formion DDG220 ex-Strauss DDG16.

Name: Leena Le
Email: leenale@sbcglobal.net
Date: Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Time: 11:53 PM

MESSAGE

I'm one of the Vietnamese boatpeople wanting to find a ship that rescued us in 1981. The ship was called President Jackson. I believe it is a commercial or merchant ship at that time. Any one have any information how to find that ship so I can get a chance to say thank you to those men that save our lives. Thank you for your help. Leena Le

Name: Duane Sherman GMG3
Email: xtremesherm@hotmail.com
Date: Thursday, May 17, 2007
Time: 05:22 PM

MESSAGE

I was a crew member of the smokin joe 78-80. Im trying to get in touch with Bart Bartholomew as I am now back in western NY. I have many pictures of the ship and of the Vietnam refugee rescue of July 80 - I was there. Im very interested in the association.

First_Name: Ray
Last_Name: Berilla
Email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date: Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Time: 02:18:43

Message

This is a test.

First_Name: phil
Last_Name: rogers
Email: nancyrogers1@cox.net
Date: Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Time: 17:41:28

Message

this brings alot of old memorys from the past. I was aboard the strauss 73-76 I remember pappy,and andy,and pat cherry was our 'gm officer ,he was from muskogee okla,iam living in the great city of oklahoma city im very proud to say i served aboard the smoken joe ,god gless all of you

First_Name: phil
Last_Name: rogers
Email: nancyrogers1@cox.net
Date: Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Time: 17:41:29

Message

this brings alot of old memorys from the past. I was aboard the strauss 73-76 I remember pappy,and andy,and pat cherry was our 'gm officer ,he was from muskogee okla,iam living in the great city of oklahoma city im very proud to say i served aboard the smoken joe ,god gless all of you

First_Name: george
Last_Name: griggs
Email: george1950@netzero.net
Date: Thursday, September 13, 2007
Time: 08:24:09

Message

I was on the Sturss From 69 to 71 in #1 eng. room (water king) would like to hear any one who mite rember me

First_Name: larry
Last_Name: ledesma
Email: lltopstitch@verizon.net
Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Time: 00:31:59

Message

hello all shipmates, i was interested in finding any information on how i can get hold of a ship year book with pics of crew and events years between 1987 trhough1990, can anyone please let me know thanks em2 (sw) ledesma

First_Name: dennis
Last_Name: beach
Email: beachnut6523@msn.com
Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Time: 07:24:31

Message

hi everyone from the warship days

First_Name: Mitch
Last_Name: McDonald
Email: mitchell.mcdonald@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, September 23, 2007
Time: 20:04:59

Message

I played Taps for your reunion last night. I wanted to express what an honor it was to play for your fallen shipmates. Everybody at the gathering was so nice and welcoming to a stranger, one from the Army no less! It is a night that I will not forget for years to come! I really had a great time! Thanks for allowing me to attend! Mitch McDonald Retired Army Colorado Springs, CO

First_Name: melvin-gunner-laug
Last_Name: laug
Email: katydidmel45240@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Time: 10:21:43

Message

served on the strauss 4/69-1/71. was gunners mate and boxed in smoker picnic and defeated charles-atlas-sanders in three rounds. need to find information on postal clerk and runs to pick up mail in da nang. good to here from anyone. names and dates for up rivers to taiwan and bankok. am fighting lung cancer-hope to defeat this too.

First_Name: Charles
Last_Name: Carter
Email: woowoo1960@woh.rr.com
Date: Friday, October 19, 2007
Time: 08:44:54

Message

Hello All, My I served on the Strusss 80-84, looking for EN2 Davis and EN3 David Brooks PS. I did know Robert "Animal" Kerr! Best Regards Charles Carter woowoo1960@woh.rr.com

First_Name: Steve
Last_Name: Smith
Email: samijx27@tx.rr.com
Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007
Time: 21:06:51

Message

Hey guys. My dad was on the decomissioning crew. I was about 16 years old at the time. I remember his telling me about an incident in the Persian Gulf on the Struss' last West Pac. All I remember is that an Iranian ship (I think it was a frigate) fired missiles in the vicinity of the "Smok'in Joe" and the Strauss returned fire and sunk it. For some reason I think I remember the name of the Iranian ship as the "Sahund" or something like that. Anyway, I can't find any mention of it on the internet. I remember when the Strauss pulled back into Pearl...It had a kill painted on the missile launcher, so I believe the story. Does anyone have any information on this? Thanks

First_Name: Brian
Last_Name: Anderson
Email: brianason77@aol.com
Date: Thursday, November 08, 2007
Time: 14:42:09

Message

Larry Ledezma, My name is Brian Anderson (HT2), I have a cruise book from the 87-88 cruise. Let me know if you need a copy. For the 16 year old son of a shipmate onboard the last wespac 88, look for a book titled (Inside The Danger Zone) by Harold Lee Wise. It tells some of the stuff that happened with the sinking of the Sahand. That whole time in the gulf was exciting and frightening at the same time. You should be proud of your dad; he served his country well.

First_Name: larry
Last_Name: ledesma em2
Email: lltopstitch@verizon.net
Date: Sunday, November 11, 2007
Time: 22:03:36

Message

hey brian anderson it was great hearing from you look foward to keeping intouch thanks

First_Name: Jerry
Last_Name: Allaway
Email: mfn4u@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Time: 20:51:49

Message

Hi everybody, I was aboard from 1967-1971, and can be seen playing guitar with the Secondary Con Artist on the second photo album. Agent Orange was all over the ship. For my first year I was a cook, and went up to the upper deck for potatoes. I smelled it, and had to wash it off the potatoes! When I got out I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. I am doing good so far as I am into health. I still feel different since that episode with lymph problems and ADD. But if I can help any of my comrades that served on the Strauss, feel free to contact me. I have ran across a few ex-Straussers here and there. I still play guitar, was in the restaraunt business 23 years, had two wonderful kids. But I'm divorced now and have time to do this! Hope to hear from any of you still out there. Jerry Allaway Sacramento, California. I live in Sacramento

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Cassidy
Email: r.caiside@gmail.com, bobko@cox.net
Date: Friday, November 16, 2007
Time: 02:16:55

Message

Aloha shipmates! Served in R Div. Between 1-80 to 1-82. Kept up with many for a few years but eventually lost track. Knew "Animal" well along with many others down in the corner. What a great time and great memories. I am in the process of scanning the pictures I took on-board and would be glad to share them with any who would like a copy. All events covered. Will post on the web soon as well. Poltz, Brown, Jones, Eckenburg, Creighton, Boydstun, Musgrove, Cassler, Animal, Youngblood, Ram-Jet, Sheriff, Rick, Van Horn and Big Tim plus all I've left out due to my degraded memory, are you guys out there? Good Luck, God Speed and Much Aloha, let me hear from you ol' Smokin Joe Shipmates. Bob Cassidy

First_Name: Richard
Last_Name: Hooper
Email: hoop_doggie@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, November 19, 2007
Time: 12:38:11

Message

Great site. I was onboard from 78-1/81. I was an ST in AS division. Just looking around to see if any old friends are here. If you were onboard then and remember me....drop me a line.

First_Name: George
Last_Name: Burke
Email: gburke@avistacorp.com
Date: Thursday, December 06, 2007
Time: 07:25:14

Message

Hey boys..............It would nice to hear from any of my shipmates from 86-89. Just drop me and email gburke@avistacorp.com

First_Name: DON
Last_Name: WALLACE
Email: chulai2@sbcglobal.net
Date: Monday, December 31, 2007
Time: 22:49:03

Message

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO THE OI DIV CIRCA 1965-68

First_Name: DON
Last_Name: WALLACE
Email: chulai2@sbcglobal.net
Date: Monday, December 31, 2007
Time: 22:50:29

Message

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO THE OI DIV CIRCA 1965-68 WALLY AKA DON

First_Name: Sam
Last_Name: Jeffrey
Email: sjeffrey@prologis.com
Date: Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Time: 15:05:06

Message

Ahoy! I served aboard the Smoken Joe from mid 77 to late 80. Worked on that one arm bandit. Would anyone remember Anthony (Tony) Custer? How about GMC Webbing? He helped me out of many troubles I had as a young seamen, aboard my first ship. If anyone remember these guys please let me know of there where abouts and or contact information. Thanks.

First_Name: Mike
Last_Name: Vaughan
Email: mike1vaughan@msn.com
Date: Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Time: 22:12:46

Message

I remember the story of the Strauss from the cruise prior to the one I was on in 68-69, where our Fleet Fox air controller vectored one or two Skyraiders on to some bogies and enabled our propeller pilots to kill some Migs. I've been waiting for the History Channel series called "Dogfights" to pick this story up. This coming Sunday it finally has an episode scheduled called "Skyraider Vs. Mig", at noon PST. I have no idea what it will show, but it HAS to be the same story. I've got it scheduled to record, so I'll report back what it says. Chief Bart was in on that episode, as I recall. Aloha! Mike

First_Name: phillip
Last_Name: webster ht3
Email: pdwjr64@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Time: 13:51:40

Message

on the struass 83 85 looking for eric shepard and hickory he worked on the 49 alfa radar. and anyone that remembers me ftm mac you to gental ben i remember you when my ship came into hi after wespac i started in the #2 fireroom then to the ht shop

First_Name: Mike
Last_Name: Barefoot
Email: texasnoshoe1@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, January 28, 2008
Time: 14:41:56

Message

I was onboard the Strauss from late 82 until Feb 83, about four months in all. At the time the ship was in the shipyards going through repairs. I was a BT3 and a short timer. My nickname was Foot. Most of my time was on the Morton DD948. Once she was decommissioned I was transfered over. It sure was great to read all the proud history involved with the Joseph Strauss! God bless America!!

First_Name: Gary
Last_Name: Jones
Email: 88nova@earthlink.net
Date: Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Time: 21:53:55

Message

Hello, I served on the Strauss from 12/69 thru 6/73. I was a cook/baker. Strauss was in the yards in Pearl Harbor when I came aboard, I left via a bosun's chair transferring to another ship in the Gulf of Tonkin. A very memorable 3 1/2 years! CS2 Gary Jones

First_Name: santos
Last_Name: carrera
Email: santos.carrera@sbcglobal.net
Date: Friday, April 25, 2008
Time: 20:10:30

Message

Hello to all my shipmates, I was on board between 1973 and 1974. the Navy dropped me off by helo shortly after the ship left Subic Bay. I was in first division until I was transfered to GM division. It was nice to ready all the eamil from guys on board during my time frame, and looking forward to information on the exposure of agent orange, drop me a line anytime.

First_Name: Neil
Last_Name: Gallagher
Email: nfg25sf@comcast.net
Date: Friday, May 23, 2008
Time: 01:17:39

Message

I'd like to hear from any of you guys Joe Rose Bob Bergland Charlie Maday Jeff Roberts Kevin Brennan Captains Gig (starboard) 26' Motorized Whaleboat (port) Very Pistol DDG16

First_Name: Ray
Last_Name: Berilla
Email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Time: 12:40:49

Message

This is a test

First_Name: Cynthia
Last_Name: Ernst
Email: CKENOV6@aol.com
Date: Friday, May 30, 2008
Time: 10:59:31

Message

Long time between postings......We had a great group of wives from the CPO Mess and had the best parties, from the Dining Out to The Chiefs Ball. I know that Dawn Kuhn passed away a few years ago, but would love to hear from Cathy Osborne, Cindy Low, Susan Blair and Cora Laffea to name a few. My kids are great, Kim has been married for 10 years now....I have a grand-dog. Chris is in the Army, just finished back to back tours in Afhganistan and Iraq. He just re-enlisted....another "lifer"in the family. I am sure not all of the crew has fond memories of MAC Ernst, it just depends on "how" you knew him. He is doing well and has not changed much, he would still take a bite of your carnation lei, Susan!

First_Name: Steven
Last_Name: Anderson
Email: sjnanders@bresnan.net
Date: Friday, May 30, 2008
Time: 18:23:21

Message

Steven "Andy" Anderson, EM3, on board all of 73 and 74. I've got a new email address: sjnanders@bresnan.net. Still looking for Dave Armstrong, another EM on the Strauss at the same time. Might have been from Michigan originally.

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Flood
Email: mflood@powerc.net
Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Time: 23:26:14

Message

To all: The Pima Air & Space museum tour has been canceled do to a scheduling conflict. Those that have signed up for this tour, will have the money returned.

First_Name: Tom
Last_Name: Tierney
Email: Tierneybuilding@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Time: 22:50:27

Message

Just saw a Navy program on PBS and so many memories came flooding back. I was on the Strauss from 76-78, GMG3, Mt 51 was my baby. Chief Liddle, Lt.Jg. Cherry, GMGI Charles Kamler and so many more really great men that I lived and worked with for so long. Wow, that was my home, life and maker of so many good memories. Does anyone remember swim call off the coast of Guam around Christmas 1976? I was on shark watch on the O-1 level, midship, starboard side. One of our cooks saw a shark ( hammerhead I think ) he started yelling and I remember firing every round in my M-14 into the water ! Next thing I recall was how fast the swimmers were climbing the cargo net back onto the ship. It was a good day to be duty Gunner's Mate. Now that I think about it that wasn't the only fun we had that day. The first swim call, if I remember correctly had a bit of a problem as well. Swim call was started before the good Ole Smokin Joe stopped moving. All these guys were in the water and the ship just kept on slowly moving away. We put the Captains gig and motor whale boat in the water to round up all the swimmers. I think there was a jelly fish issue too. Well, this is the way I remember Christmas 1976. If anyone knows differently, please let me know. I went to the website of the USS Hector AR-7, ( my last ship before I got out of the Navy in 1979 ) and they sell ships hats, shirts, jackets and some other stuff. Can we get anything at all with the Strauss on it? I thought at one time you could still get a Zippo lighter. Hope to hear from someone. Tom Tierney

First_Name: Steve "Doc"
Last_Name: Wright
Email: Lonestar1949@Yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, June 19, 2008
Time: 10:22:37

Message

I was ships corpsman 76-78. I would love to hear from anyone that served with me. Also would like to hear from dive club members.

First_Name: James
Last_Name: Hawkins "Kimo"
Email: jjh7296@msn.com
Date: Friday, June 20, 2008
Time: 12:15:53

Message

Was anyone seeing this aboard at the time our prop got tangled off Nam. Two swimmers went into the water to get it untangled, I was one of the swimmers. Does anyone know approx. when this happened? 67, 68 or 69 Thanks James Hawkins "Kimo"

First_Name: George
Last_Name: Lees
Email: georgeplease@dslextreme.com
Date: Sunday, June 29, 2008
Time: 20:52:41

Message

Hello fellow shipmates,I am inquiring if anyone knows of a military MWR facility on Oahu.The cabins at Barbers point look good,but are a long way from Honolulu and the traffic there isn't any better than So. Cal. Yes three years and ten months on the Joseph Strauss had a big influence on me. Thank God I beleived sailors didn't need wives,dogs or cars back then. Take care my friends George c

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Fread
Email: rivsec512@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2008
Time: 23:48:10

Message

QM1 Freswater Fread here. Just testing to see if the message board is up and running. If it is I will post more of a message later.

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Fread
Email: rivsec512@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2008
Time: 23:49:11

Message

QM1 Freshwater Fread here. Just testing to see if the message board is up and running. If it is I will post more of a message later.

First_Name::
Last_Name::
Email::
Message::
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2009
Time: 17:19:29

First_Name::
Last_Name::
Email::
Message::
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2009
Time: 17:21:34

First_Name: Ray
Last_Name: Berilla
Email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2009
Time: 17:36:10

Message

This is a test

First_Name: Ray
Last_Name: Berilla
Email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2009
Time: 17:47:50

Message

This is a test. Test #2.

First_Name: jim
Last_Name: hansen
Email: jazhansen@msn.com
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2009
Time: 18:11:05

Message

test

First_Name: GEORGE
Last_Name: SCHINAS
Email: gschinas@otenet.gr
Date: Sunday, January 25, 2009
Time: 12:52:30

Message

i was greek sailor 1992-1993 (san diego LA-piraeus greece

First_Name: Jimmie
Last_Name: Grayson IC2 85-88
Email: speculatorx2100@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, March 01, 2009
Time: 23:20:49

Message

Wow! This brought back a lot of good memories. I need to dig out pictures next. Best wishes and God bless all who served on board Smoke'n Joe during any time.

First_Name: cecil ( TEX)
Last_Name: moseley
Email: tammyd5858@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Time: 21:06:59

Message

i am searching for shipmates who were on board in 68 &69 to help me show "service connected" for agent orange related illnesses. please email me at tammyd5858@yahoo.com

First_Name: Edith
Last_Name: Bartlett
Email: redsse@aol.com
Date: Friday, March 27, 2009
Time: 13:06:48

Message

Bob Bartlett passed away on March 21st quite suddenly. He was really looking forward to the reunion this summer.

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Upchurch
Email: rbupchurch1@verizon.net
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Time: 07:19:02

Message

Saw an obit in the Washington Post this morning. Capt Bartlett passed away last week. He was CO in the early 1980's. I did not know him very well as he took Command my last two weeks onboard. Burt Upchurch, CDR USN-retired Robert Charles Bartlett, 67, a retired Navy captain and later a project manager who helped develop the network for America Online, died March 21 of a heart attack at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital. He was an Alexandria resident. Mr. Bartlett graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1964 and served two tours in Vietnam as captain of a river boat squadron. He received his master's in business from the University of Rochester during his 23-year military career. His final assignment was as captain of the USS Joseph Strauss, a guided missile-armed destroyer. He was awarded the Bronze Star. After retiring from the Navy in 1984, he accepted a position with BBN Technologies and was a project manager helping develop the AOL network. In 2000, he formed RCB Systems and consulted with several communication and Internet projects. He retired again in 2006. Mr. Bartlett was a volunteer with a number of groups and organizations in Northern Virginia, including the Woodlawn Little League, the Mount Vernon High School Band, Pohick Episcopal Church in Lorton, George Washington's Mount Vernon Estates and a homeless shelter. He was born in Pottsville, Pa., and grew up in Schuylkill Haven, Pa. Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Edith Dewey Bartlett of Alexandria; two sons, Michael Bartlett of Denver and Mark Bartlett of Chantilly; and one grandson.

First_Name: Don
Last_Name: Oxford
Email: doxford101132@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, April 04, 2009
Time: 16:32:58

Message

Anyone who knows how to contact Mike Connelly ETN-3 who actually was a Radar repair tech rather than a Communications type ET please either do so and give him my email address or contact me with his as I am fighting the VA concerning Agent Orange compensation and service connection. I have been fighting them for in excess of 4 and 1/2 years and have gotten so far as having one Ed Monroe of the Nashville area Disable American Veterans tell me that the DVA was "willing to stipulate" that my I (and my shipmates served in Viet Nam. Still no word from DVA. Thanks!

First_Name: Rick
Last_Name: Elmendorf
Email: relmendorf@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Time: 12:04:43

Message

Just found your website and it brings back a lot of memories. Don't expect many of you would remember me as I was not a crew member of the Joseph Strauss, but was assigned to Commodore Lewis' staff with ComDesRon33. Joseph Strauss was our Flag Ship during 71/72 Westpac. Would like to know if I am eligible to join the association, would consider it an honor?

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Watts
Email: john.watts@airliquide.com
Date: Thursday, April 23, 2009
Time: 16:51:35

Message

Hello all. I just discovered the website. It is great to see. I was a member of the final crew, also lived the infamous April 18th, 1988. Would love to hear from member of the final crew. Does anyone know where Capt. Strauss ended up. John Watts CDR USN (Ret.)

First_Name: steve
Last_Name: bowker
Email: bowkerstv@aol.com
Date: Monday, May 04, 2009
Time: 19:19:15

Message

my condolencences to the bartlett family on the passing of capt barlett, was able to serve under his command after capt benepe.

First_Name: joseph
Last_Name: fiszer
Email: fiszer567@aol.com
Date: Sunday, May 10, 2009
Time: 01:21:50

Message

i'm waving five at all yal qm2 i was helmsman during refuling, i still got some pics. boats give me a holler

First_Name: michael
Last_Name: keaton
Email: notaek@netscape.com
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Time: 11:27:25

Message

I was on board late 69 to 1-26-72 can anyone tell me when were in Da Nang harbour? tks,mike MM3

First_Name: David (greg)
Last_Name: Weir
Email: dgweir1@email.uky.edu
Date: Thursday, May 28, 2009
Time: 13:05:09

Message

FC2 in gun plot from 86 to 89. Just wanted to say hi.

First_Name: George
Last_Name: Kleinfeldt
Email: geo92128@gmail.com
Date: Friday, June 05, 2009
Time: 13:27:59

Message

Hello to all, Any of the commissioning (snipes) still around? The old 1332 crew? Have a few contacts, PC Smith, Andrajewski, Stohs, Goodman - all from that time period. Leave an E-mail and I will contact you. P.S. Wallie (Swan) Zinc Rod passed away a few years ago. BTW - Andrajewski CWO4 Did a 2nd tour as the engineering office on DDG-16. all-hands did a story about him - FN PreComm to CWO4 Chief Engineer. He was the last plank owner to serve aboard the Strauss...

First_Name: Kristine (Anderson)
Last_Name: Oppenheim
Email: kristine.oppenheim@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, June 15, 2009
Time: 21:50:49

Message

Dear Ones, It is with great sadness that I must inform you of the passing of my father, CAPT Samuel K. Anderson, AKA: Slammin' Sammy, on June 9th, 2009. He will be buried in Arlington Cemetery at a date to be determined. If you are interested in attending, and would like me to send you details as they are known to me, please send me an email. Also, I am desperate for stories of my dad... when he was in his glory, as CO of the Joseph Strauss-- please take a minute and share with me if you can. He was a great man with a great presence... he will be missed. Sincerely, Kristine

First_Name: James
Last_Name: Morris
Email: Anubis_morris_james@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Time: 04:25:24

Message

To whom it my concern my name is james morris and i live in pueblo colorado and i was the youngest son of one of the crew from the 1970 voyage of the Strauss and i his name was Daniel Morris he died on march the 4 2006 and myself and my family would love to have you give my father a fond farwell from the ship his rank was a E3 stewart and i hope you can miss him as much as i do yours truely James Morris

First_Name: Earl
Last_Name: Joseph
Email: earljoseph@cox.net
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Time: 16:12:19

Message

Looking for contact information for 1972 commander Shane P Daniels or First Class Petty officer T Collins

First_Name: Ira
Last_Name: Fritz
Email: skcusn@comcast.net
Date: Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Time: 18:51:08

Message

I was on the Strauss from 69 to 70. Made the Westpac with Tuffy Tufinisco, John Wallace, Roy Sullivan, Bruce Basco, and an SH3 from Detroit. We were all partners in a 1952 Chevy in Pearl. It cost us $25 each to buy a membership in the car. Use to take it to the drive in on Fridays with a couple of cases of beer. If anyone knows the name of the SH3 and his address please let me know. I saw the picture of Tuffy at the reunion, he should know. Saw John, Roy,and Bruce about eight years ago. All doing well. Also, I remember DC3 Fanning from Oaklahoma. The supply Lt. ended up an admiral and so did the XO Jeremiah. If any of you remember me (SK2 Fritz) drop a line. I got out in 1970 and reenlisted in 1977. Retire as an SKC in 1994. Also again, anyone know an SK Tony Bacoca or an SK1 Jerry ?, or a kid named Cochran out of Texas? Keep in touch and fair winds and following seas.

First_Name: Tom
Last_Name: Tierney
Email: tierneybuilding@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, July 09, 2009
Time: 19:29:27

Message

Hi shipmates, Anybody from 76-78 going to the re-union this fall? I'm planning on going, I haven't been to one yet, but I got an e-mail from my Gun Boss, aka:Patrick Cherry that motivated me to go. I hope to see somebody from those years. Please let me know. I was a GMG3 on Mount 51.

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Crocker
Email: michael.crocker@themis.com
Date: Friday, July 10, 2009
Time: 14:21:29

Message

As you can see from an earlier message from CAPT Sam Anderson's daughter the CAPT passed away in June. He will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery with full honors in Spetember. If anyone who served onboard while CAPT Anderson was the CO is interested in attending the interment please contact me, and I will provide details, etc as they become available. Michael Crocker, CAPT, USN (retired) Former Chief Engineer

First_Name: Joseph (Jake)
Last_Name: Fryar
Email: jake#1@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Time: 17:24:51

Message

I need help, if any of my shipmates Remember When in DA NANG harbor I had to go ashore to get help from naval repair shops to repair a vital part for Mt#52 firing cutout system. I spent several hours seaching on the base for help, but i could not locate any personnel to help. I know that the boat crew should remember. also, since we anchored a entry in the deck should be entered, AS much as I can recall this took place in 1972. any one who recall Please contact me as I have several medical problems that may be related AGENT ORANGE !!!!! Aloha, Joseph (Jake) Fryar Gmmc (retired) E_MAIL jake#1 @hawaii.rr.com

First_Name: Brandon
Last_Name: Baughman
Email: SoldierLnChaos@AOL.com
Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Time: 22:59:51

Message

Was the USS J. Strauss in Operation Praying Mantis during the Iraq-Iran conflict; scoring two kills on Iranian surface ships, or speed boats?

First_Name: Lance
Last_Name: Morrison
Email: morrison@wccnv.com
Date: Sunday, August 02, 2009
Time: 10:12:48

Message

I served aboard the Strauss 1967&1968 I was a 3rd class Quartermaster on the bridge of the Joseph Strauss on the fateful night that we were bombed by I believe 3 A6 jets off of the Constellation (I believe it was the Constellation) in Vietnam. Here is what I know: USS JOSEPH STRAUSS (DDG-. 16), commanded by CDR Lawrence. Layman, USN, was attacked by an A-6 at 0210, Friday, 27 September 1968 As I recall, the Strauss was the flag ship of a Commodore Doyle (Comdesron 11) at the time. The bombs dropped took out our radar and turned the starboard side of the ship (aluminum above the main deck) into Swiss cheese. No one on board was injured including the starboard lookout, a black sailor, who was missed by shrapnel by centimeters. A large chunk tore a hole in his pants. I recall him saying “I see the Light, I see the Light” he couldn’t say anything else and his eyes were as large as pie tins! I recall the chaos on the bridge. I was in the charthouse just behind the bridge correcting maps. It was the mid-watch 12:00am-4:00am. We were running dark off the 17th parallel in a box about 1 mile wide by 5 miles long not far off the beach of North Vietnam. I heard the officer of the deck announce that we had a flight of jets off the carrier about to overfly us. They were squawking as friendly. The A6’s were looking for a truck convoy on the beach. The next thing I saw was the sky light up like the sun and the thunderous explosions 50 ft off our starboard side followed by the sound of the shrapnel tearing holes in the superstructure. I ran onto the bridge with my battle helmet and life preserver (self preservation!) and found the entire bridge crew crouching/lying on the deck. The helmsman had one hand on the wheel and the officer of the deck was extremely confused and had no idea of what to do. About that time, Chief R. Jones (a real old salt) came running up the ladder way from CIC to the bridge and pushed me out of the way and stepped over/on the bodies on the deck to get to the lighting electrical panel. He turned on everything that we had including a light that showed the large white star on the top of our nuclear ASROC mount amidships. I believe that at this time the A6 crews were circling for another attack as they did not see any secondary explosions. I’m sure that the ship with the lights on looked like the “Light Parade at Disneyland”. Apparently the lights saved us and the attack was over. I believe that the crews aboard the A6’s were in deep trouble. The Strauss was similar to the British ship that was hit by an Exocet missile in the Falkland Islands by Argentina. That ship was basically incinerated. Our ship, if hit by any of the bombs dropped would surely have suffered a similar fate. We had a 5in. gun mount forward with a magazine below it, the twin turbine boilers in the engine room, the Nuclear ASROC between the stacks, a Tartar missile system behind that with its’ own magazine, another 5in gun mount behind that with its’ own magazine. The ships’ hull was steel, but all of the structure above the main deck was aluminum. A direct hit on a nuclear ASROC is probably not what you want to do! I recall the conversation between the Commodore and the Captain of the aircraft carrier. I have never heard the use of the “F---“ word so many times and in such a manner by a senior officer. The one way conversation went on for about 15-30 minutes.

First_Name: Stan
Last_Name: Miller
Email: Stan_da_man_1949@hotmail.com
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009
Time: 19:53:47

Message

Remember the Secondary Con Artists? What a way to get out of hauling stores! I was the dude playing the white guitar. I went on later and used the G.I. bill to get my degree and have been a Banker since 1974. I still keep in touch with Richard L. Jones"Jonsey" from "R" division. I got out as an SF3 2 months early November 1971 for Nam service. I turned down SF2 because they wouldn't give me an early out if I took it. I look foward to my first reunion next year.

First_Name: Davis (Pete)
Last_Name: Dunihue
Email: Alaskalover@att.net
Date: Saturday, August 29, 2009
Time: 17:43:31

Message

Is there anyone here from '80-'82?

First_Name: Dave
Last_Name: Ennis
Email: davee1@sbcglobal.net
Date: Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Time: 00:07:48

Message

Hey guys...I was on the Strauss from 77 to 80. Was an ET...working out of the radar room, radio room, and TACAN room. Anyone who wants to drop me a line...please do!!!. Also seeking confirmation of a rumor that Paul Barker has passed on due to cancer.

First_Name: ed
Last_Name: simpson
Email: tinman2@oz.net
Date: Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Time: 00:15:36

Message

Sorry to hear of the passing of Captain Anderson. I remember the day those eagles got pinned to his collars... he was invincible. I had so much fun onboard as a FTM3/2 from 76 to 78 that I went back aboard in 86 as a FC2 and decommissioned her in 90 as a FC1. I think it was Slammin Sam that actually helped me make Chief. Anybody remembers me, or needs a backup to a story from when I was aboard, drop me a line.

First_Name: Leif
Last_Name: Akerson
Email: akersons@bendbroadband.com
Date: Friday, September 11, 2009
Time: 14:36:31

Message

I had time to kill today so I pulled up the ship I was on USS Joseph Strauss DDG-16, I wish I had done this 5 years ago, I jumped on board on September 23 1969, and was there for the bomb test on Amchitka Island, and now to find out that also spent some time in DaNang Harbor, from what I am reading I came down with a rash on my chest, we have tried to get it to clear up, but nothing has worked for the last 35 years, I just wonder what it could be, and if I got it while visiting these too places??

First_Name: mel-gunner-
Last_Name: laug
Email: katydidmel45240@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Time: 16:26:34

Message

on sunday aug 2nd 1970 the gig left the uss strauss in da nang harbour to retreive the mail. i was on the gig and accompanied the postal clerk. i am trying to prove "boots on the ground" to help make my case for my lung cancer-agent orange connection. if anyone nows of this event or who the postal clerk is it would be a help thanks.

First_Name: NICK
Last_Name: SPANOS
Email: spanosn1@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, October 02, 2009
Time: 18:14:28

Message

I WAS ONE OF THE FIRST CREW OF HS FORMION.I WAS A RADIOMAN. I ARRIVED IN NAVAL STATION OF SAN DIEGO SEP.1992. I HAD MANY GOOD TIMES IN U.S. AND SAN DIEGO IS MY FAVORITE PLACE. I 'M VERY HAPPY BECAUSE I FIND MY SHIP IN YOUR SITE. I WISH I CAN WRITE MORE BUT US YOU UNDERSTAND MY ENGLISH ARE NOT SO GOOD. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. W.O. SPANOS NICK HELLENIC NAVY

First_Name: Rand E
Last_Name: Kirshman
Email: rkirshman@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, October 18, 2009
Time: 18:48:29

Message

Just found this site after many many years. Good to see there is still a reference to the old Smokin Joe!! See a couple of names from Repair Division who are familiar! Mike Fanning, Rex Holt, and my old shock buddy Emerick on the Bridge! (Ha!) Hope all of you are well! Take good care! Rand

First_Name: Rand E
Last_Name: Kirshman
Email: rkirshman@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, October 18, 2009
Time: 18:50:13

Message

Forgot to mention I was aboard from Dec. "66" to Aug. "69."

First_Name: Leif
Last_Name: Akerson
Email: akersons@bendbroadband.com
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Time: 18:05:15

Message

Been gone for some time, thought I would chime in and up date my e-mail, ect,ect. On board 1-01-69 to 1971 #2 engine room Rogers was my sea daddy, he made chief, and retired by now, as well as I. Anyone one remember when someone drop the 500 off the fantail?? Or on the gun line, when they took a shot at us?? anyway hope all's well, God Bless Leif Akerson. Bend Oregon.

First_Name: LARRY
Last_Name: LEDESMA
Email: LLTOPSTITCH@VERIZON.NET
Date: Monday, October 26, 2009
Time: 15:31:44

Message

HEY IC2 GRAYSON, I WAS IN E DIVISION WITH U EM2 LEDESMA, I REMEMBER YOU AND HUDSON, BROWN,CALVO IT WAS A COOL E DIVISION

First_Name: Barbara
Last_Name: Ackerman
Email: back614@aolcom
Date: Friday, October 30, 2009
Time: 19:39:22

Message

I am writing to inform the crew that was on the ship 68-70 that my husband Arthur Ackerman passed away on November 24,2006 from a heart attack. He was a MM and left the ship when it returned from Westpac 1970. Would love to hear from his old shipmates. I moved to Hawaii in Dec 1969. He retired from Navy November 1987.

First_Name: Jack
Last_Name: Pullman (MM2 - 02/1970 - 08/1973)
Email: thesawtooth@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, November 05, 2009
Time: 01:50:21

Message

I am still amazed after all these years how much my time on the Strauss affected me. There are times when I can remember so vividly the amazing events and experiences we all had aboard this wonderful ship. A lot of them have to do with sitting out on the fantail in the dark, moving through glass-smooth waters at about three knots. It was so hot and humid on the DMZ at night, watching the shore bombardments and star shells...wishing I was back home here in the cool, dry, Colorado mountains. About once or twice a year I wake up in a cold sweat having dreamed that I re-enlisted and am stationed back aboard Strauss on a WestPac. The rest of the time I just wake up sweating. Getting old is for the birds. Thanks to all of my shipmates for the great memories. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me.

First_Name: Sarah
Last_Name: Sanders Smith
Email: profssmith@hotmail.com
Date: Thursday, November 05, 2009
Time: 09:07:43

Message

My Dad was Lt Commander of Supply Corps when the USS Joseph Strauss was commissioned (have to tell you - it brought tears to my eyes to see his name on your website under Commissioning Crew List - Officers). Lt. John R Sanders was medically discharged from the Navy by the ship doctor (62/63). He lived with us at home for 13 years and at the VA Hospital in Milwaukee for 8 years until he lost his battle with MS. Since I was so young, I don't know a lot about his Navy days. If anyone has a memory to share - I would love to "hear" it! profssmith@hotmail.com Also - I want to join our local American Legion but do not have his information. Does anyone know how I can go about obtaining that? My hats off to all of you!

First_Name: tom
Last_Name: dagg
Email: t.dagg@sbcglobal.net
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Time: 13:17:32

Message

hi everyone i was on board the strauss from pro comm in new port till aug of 1966. i remember a lot of guys from that time and a lot a steaming around west pack . we did every thing that needed done we were a great crew.

First_Name: DAVID
Last_Name: ANDERSON
Email: socamtnman8853@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 22:18:54

Message

anybody remember m from 72 to 75

First_Name: chuck
Last_Name: dixon
Email: dixon60914@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, November 27, 2009
Time: 19:42:18

Message

BT in 2 fire from sept 76 thru sept 78 anyone else from that time here?

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Rutledge
Email: bob.rutledge@cox.net
Date: Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Time: 14:07:15

Message

Hi!! I was on the Strauss from Dec. 1965 to July 1967. I still keep in contact with Pete Quinonez and Ken Nieto. I was wondering when the next reunion will be held. Please email with the info to bob.rutledge@cox.net

First_Name: Douglas
Last_Name: Jonas
Email: dcjonas@mail.com
Date: Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Time: 14:44:50

Message

Looking for anyone who knew my uncle, Senior or Master Chief Petty Officer Felton Demo Rader who died in Waipahu, Honolulu, Hawaii while station on the USS Joseph Strauss in 1977.

First_Name: Al
Last_Name: Liner
Email: alliner@sbcglobal.net
Date: Monday, December 07, 2009
Time: 18:48:09

Message

I am looking for anybody who served during 1970 and 71 West Pac. (especially 1st division. If there is somebody last name of Mussgrave during that time and somebody knows how to contact him that would be especially helpful. I can be contacted at alliner@sbcglobal.net

First_Name: Al
Last_Name: Liner
Email: alliner@sbcglobal.net
Date: Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Time: 22:56:51

Message

The radio shack, then 1st division. 69-71. I need info concerning the 70 WestPac. If anybody out there remembers me or can help please get a hold of me. I would also just like to touch base with some old friends and shipmates.

First_Name: Don
Last_Name: Oxford
Email: doxford101132@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009
Time: 19:43:47

Message

Have the ship's logs for September, October and November 1965 and January through December of 1966 been found? Does anyone recall a mission to "show the colors" on or about 27 October of 1965 when the USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16) while serving as the Flagship for Destroyer Squadron 3, steamed up the Saigon River until it became too shallow and narrow to navigate at which point we reversed engines and backed down the river until it became deep and wide enough to execute a 180 degree turn and we then proceeded down to Saigon Harbor and out to sea. We steamed just north of Saigon Harbor to Vung Tau and commenced firing in support of US Marine and ARVN forces conducting operations against Viet Cong on 28 October 1965 or am I crazy? Don't be shy, if I'm crazy I can handle it. Probably all that fun I had in the '70s.

First_Name: al
Last_Name: liner
Email: alliner@sbcglobal.net
Date: Friday, December 11, 2009
Time: 09:25:40

Message

Does anybody out there who was on the 1970 WestPac have a DD214 that shows we got a combat action ribbon. For some reason mine doesn't show it and I need to prove to the VA that I got one to go forward with my claim. If I can get a copy of somebody elses that shows one then I can prove that my DD214 was in error and they will move forward with my claim. I know I'm asking a lot, so I can't begin to tell you how much this is appreciated. your shipmate al liner

First_Name: Stan
Last_Name: Miller
Email: Cartman1949@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2009
Time: 02:26:29

Message

Al Liner, I have a copy of my DD 214 that shows our combat action ribbon. Remember we wree in the band the Secondary Con Artist for a while? Your were the drummer. I had the white guitar in crew photos # 2 on the Strauss web page. Give me a Call at 419 673-0380. How is your brother Steve doing?

First_Name: Joseph
Last_Name: McVay
Email: popcvay@hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Time: 13:13:32

Message

For those interested towerhobbies.com has a limited number of Dragon Models 1/700 U. S. S. Charles F Adams DDG 2 kits available. The tower hobbies stock number is LXSCY4 the price is about 20.00 plus postage. The model is 7.5 " long and beam of 3/4". Can be built in several configurations, US, Aussie, German, Greek. The kit hull has the bow mounted Sonar (big bulb) I do not remember if Strauss had a bow mounted sonar or hull mounted. The model is for experienced modelers. Joe

First_Name: JEFFREY
Last_Name: TRETTER
Email: ANTMAN1991@RCN.COM
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010
Time: 09:12:51

Message

GMG2 TRETTER SERVED ABOURD SMOKIN JOE FROM 85-88 WAS THERE FOR THE LAST WEST PAC IN 88 HELLO TO ANY SHIPMATES AT THAT TIME HOPE THIS MESSAGE FINDS YOU ALL IN GOOD HEALTH WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF THE OLD GUN GANG

First_Name: JEFFREY
Last_Name: TRETTER
Email: ANTMAN1991@RCN.COM
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010
Time: 09:44:55

Message

GMG2 TRETTER SERVED ABOURD SMOKIN JOE FROM 85-88 WAS THERE FOR THE LAST WEST PAC IN 88 HELLO TO ANY SHIPMATES AT THAT TIME HOPE THIS MESSAGE FINDS YOU ALL IN GOOD HEALTH WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF THE OLD GUN GANG

First_Name: joseph
Last_Name: strauss
Email: js18336@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010
Time: 19:49:28

Message

Did anyone serve with Robert Strauss? he served 4 years onboard and later named me after this ship, I am comissioning ddg-109 the uss Jason Dunham, if any one served with my father please contact me at js198336@hotmail.com.

First_Name: tom
Last_Name: higley
Email: li.sotm@gmail.com
Date: Monday, February 08, 2010
Time: 20:20:10

Message

What years did your father server in Strauss? I was there from 79-82. BTW my last ship was USS Arliegh Burke DDG-51

First_Name: Leif
Last_Name: Akerson
Email: akersons@bendbroadband.com
Date: Saturday, February 13, 2010
Time: 14:05:19

Message

I was on board from 10-3-69 to 08-15-71, when we were on our west pack cruise and in the Tonkin Gulf, off the coast of Viet-Nam, 1969 or 70, were we awarded the Combat Action Ribbon for these years???? Thanks Shipmates Leif I Akerson #2 engine Room. I need info real soon, and did we carry any form of AO at this time.

First_Name: Leif
Last_Name: Akerson
Email: akersons@bendbroadband.com
Date: Thursday, February 18, 2010
Time: 16:43:56

Message

I have been doing some web browsing, about the time I was on Strauss DDG-16 and I found something that most don't know, but I well share. From 1969 to 1971 all on board should of received the Combat Action Ribbon, I did not know this until I ask on the VBN site. I did ask my Dr about it, and showed him what I found, he said yes you should have it on your DD214, it's not there, but with the proof I shared with him he said PUT IN ON YOUR HAT, you did earn it. If you have a problem with PTSD, it well help with your claim. Thanks All. Leif Akerson #2 engine Room 1969 to 1971 Good Luck Old Ship mates. Safe Cruising.

First_Name: Kelly
Last_Name: Whiteacre RM 79-83
Email: taradogfarm@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2010
Time: 17:52:45

Message

Just found the website, and found I've missed the NM reunions! My time on the Strauss is never far from my thoughts, and neither are the guys I served with. All the radiomen, AJ, Big John Cummings, Gus, Dennis and Donald Watkins, Chief Crites and Poncho (yeah, you too.) Bowker, and everyone else I'd like to name but, after thirty years, it's a wonder I remember my own name! To all of you, thank you. Let me hear from you guys, I want to be at the next New Mexico reunion. From the heart of the west, Take care. KW Belen, NM

First_Name: Phillip
Last_Name: D'Avy
Email: Mscittykat9666@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, February 28, 2010
Time: 22:33:53

Message

trying to find a couple people a Bob Stasyk,David Mallory, Dan Walker, Dan Foggle , a gentleman with last name Bohaycheck . i served on the Strauss in 1978-79 please contact me through my wifes email account listed above please

First_Name: Dave
Last_Name: Ennis
Email: davee1@sbcglobal.net
Date: Monday, March 01, 2010
Time: 16:49:53

Message

Hey guys...I was on the Strauss from 77 to 80. Was an ET...working out of the radar room, radio room, and TACAN room. Anyone who has tried to contact me, and did not get a response, it may have been because of my spam filters. I had yahoo.com as domain that was rejected for quite a while now...but is fixed now. Uh...oops! So try again if you want, or post here. :-)

First_Name: balinda
Last_Name: petersen thompson
Email: balindamarie@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Time: 21:45:51

Message

my grandfather was on the Strauss he was a cook his name was Kennie (pappy)Thompson i believe it was 1954 maybe not sure of the dates looking to see if any one might remember him also im looking for a copy of a allhands navy magazine from around the same time he was in it twice one the front cover and one the back 1952-1957? if you could help me that would be great or even if you could send me in a direction to get a copy thanks

First_Name: Ray
Last_Name: Berilla
Email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date: Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Time: 22:44:42

Message

Hi Balinda. I would be happy to pass along your request to our shipmates but first you should should know that our ship was not commissioned until 1963 so it would have been impossible for your grandfather to have been onboard in 1954. I will post your message on our email discussion group though and maybe someone will recognize him. As for the issue of All Hands magazine, you are in luck. It is possible to search the issues online and if you find what you are looking for you can save and print out your own copy. The website address is http://www.navy.mil/allhands.asp?x=search Hopefully someone will recognize your grandfather's name and get in touch with you. Please do not hestitate to get in touch with me if there's anything else I can do. Ray Berilla USS Joseph Strauss webmaster

First_Name: Lucinda
Last_Name: Hall-Ashman
Email: lucindahallashman@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, March 27, 2010
Time: 20:35:46

Message

I am the sister of J,Charles Hall crew oc on comm.ship uss jos.strauss 1960.My brother was 16 yrs.old and has his many memories.I would like to connect him somehow.He is not on line,he lives in meager means so to speak but he meant the world to me when he enlisted and still does.please email how I could get a comm.photo of the crew for him or his yearbook.Thank-you sincerely,Lucinda

First_Name: Steve
Last_Name: Bowker
Email: bowkerstv@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Time: 12:20:04

Message

Kelly Whitacre, ur memory isnt that bad, you remembered me, ur alright, dont care what they say about you, ha ha, int zbz.

First_Name: Steve
Last_Name: Bowker
Email: bowkerstv@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Time: 12:20:16

Message

Kelly Whitacre, ur memory isnt that bad, you remembered me, ur alright, dont care what they say about you, ha ha, int zbz.

First_Name: steven
Last_Name: williams
Email: sdwdec03@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, April 26, 2010
Time: 12:58:40

Message

Ray Berilla... I tried to e-mail you at your address but no success so... I'm in the process of filing a claim for review of my records by the VA. It would be very helpful if not critical to obtain complete deck logs for 65,66,& 67. Reference 1966...STG2 Brian Green and I received letters of appreciation for work accomlished on board USS Henry W. Tucker DD875 while at DaNang. Letter Dated 12 May 1966 I don't know if this was the exact day we were anchord but I beleive we were there 24 + hours coupling 2-days together . Should be able to cross reference Tucker logs to confirm. Is the Joseph Strauss listed with the "Brown Water" Navy for assigned activities @ DaNang ? I have had issues since being PDRL 02/76. 4+ heart events, (L) Carotid occluded (R) Carotid Stent, Quadruple ByPass, Diabetes, Asthma, Cataract (s), memory loss, and (1) Stroke. I have led a very healthy life and have no family history so believe the source of my inconvenience comes from elsewhere. I walk 8 mi./day, mentally some days are better than others but I'm still here. The VA is much better than it used to be, however it is so large assigned doctors can hide in the system and do nothing to move the process in the proper direction. Please respond...thank you for your attention.

First_Name: ARTHUR
Last_Name: WIDENER
Email: ARTHURWIDENER@HOTMAIL.COM
Date: Friday, May 07, 2010
Time: 19:20:01

Message

DOES KNOW HOW TO GET IN CONTACT WITH BURT UPCHURCH, PETE HACKETT OR ANY ONE WHO WAS IN ENGINEERING IN THE EARLY 80's. Arthur G. Widener CPO Ret.

First_Name: doug
Last_Name: sloan
Email: dsloan69@bellsouth.net
Date: Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Time: 01:13:07

Message

why

First_Name: douglas
Last_Name: sloan
Email: dsloan69@bellsouth.net
Date: Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Time: 01:46:44

Message

i was an EM in 71 -74. i know shober, john IC2, marQuardt from minn.also IC2,

First_Name: ussjosephstrauss.org
Last_Name: dsloan
Email: dsloan69@bellsouth.net
Date: Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Time: 03:42:43

Message

hello every 1

First_Name: Douglas
Last_Name: Sloan
Email: dsloan69@bellsouth.net
Date: Friday, May 14, 2010
Time: 23:37:42

Message

wikipedia has no info on us from 1968-1987.does any1 know how to remedy this, they should at least have historical documentation of our 71-72 mines explosion in the south china seas during the viet war. i,m just saying, history has a way of slipping away into davey jones locker if u know what i mean. i guess everyone is just 2 busy, huh j.t. shober.recluse.

First_Name: Douglas
Last_Name: Sloan
Email: dsloan69@bellsouth.net
Date: Friday, May 14, 2010
Time: 23:40:00

Message

check out wikipedia on ddg-16

First_Name: Larry
Last_Name: Klemesrud
Email: lklemesrud@mitchellcoia.us
Date: Thursday, May 20, 2010
Time: 15:36:30

Message

I am trying to find any and all documents concerning the location of the USS JOSEPH STRAUSS that shows it was either anchored in the brown water or up the rivers in Vietnam, from June 1964 thru Dec 1967. I am trying to assist a client with a claim for benefits. If any of you have any of these documents please copy them and email them to me as soon as possible or give me a contact number and we can discuss how to fax them to me. Your kind assistance in the matter is greatly appreciated. Respectfully yours, Larry Klemesrud

First_Name: Jim
Last_Name: Hansen
Email: jazhansen@msn.com
Date: Sunday, May 30, 2010
Time: 11:02:06

Message

Larry, Your email address (lklemesrud@mitchellcoia.us )is incorrect. The information that you are seeking is available from the web site Webmaster. Contact Ray. Jim Hansen.

First_Name: Ector
Last_Name: Villanueva
Email: hawaii_vic@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Time: 05:59:10

Message

17 June 10 - Update to Ships Granted Presumption of Exposure-some for specific dates only . Ray Our ship is on this list

First_Name: Mike
Last_Name: Folger
Email: gator344@bellsouth.net
Date: Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Time: 20:17:06

Message

I was on the Strauss from 82-85. Capt. Bob was my CO. I was sorry to hear of his passing. We used to play raquetball at lunch time. It was the only time I was allowed to return late from lunch, unless of couse NCC Neff brought me to the Marine side and made me buy him beers. Capt. Bob was a tremendous person and will be sorely missed. I also served under CDR Wells, great CO. Made a WESTPAC with him, was a good adventure for a young man.

First_Name: Gabe
Last_Name: Sierra
Email: gsierra_9@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Time: 22:01:36

Message

Hi, I was on board the Strauss in 1965-1967. I now live in Pueblo, Co. I was a BT in the 1st fireroom. My partner, { I call him my partner because we have been in touch with each other ever since I left the Navy, Ron Wielander } lives in Sturgis, S.D. We are talking about going to this reunion, but no definite plans yet. My email is up above so if any of you want to chat let me know.

First_Name: ron
Last_Name: Nahaku bt2 ( 85-decom)
Email: mr_mahalo@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, July 12, 2010
Time: 21:01:23

Message

Hello i served from 85 thru decomissioning in b-div primarily fwd fireroom. would enojoy hearing from those who served with me

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Burke
Email: burketrinityranch@mesh.net
Date: Sunday, July 18, 2010
Time: 21:20:30

Message

Served on JOSEPH STRAUSS from Apr 63 to Dec 65. I was a PN in the ship's office. Would like to hear from shipmates who remember me. Also would like to know anything on Haskell Hargis, SH1, and CDR Jack Ward, or XO. i just turned 80 and manage a small Longhorn Cattle Ranch in Texas.

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Whitaker
Email: suejohn777@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, August 16, 2010
Time: 11:27:29

Message

HI,Shipmates if there is anyone out there who served on board spring65-to nov.67 M/div.would sure like to hear from you.............

First_Name: Rand E
Last_Name: Kirshman
Email: rkirshman@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, August 19, 2010
Time: 18:54:04

Message

Just wanted to wish all those who served aboard the Smokin Joe a healthy life! Nice to see this site! Be Well!

First_Name: mike
Last_Name: fanning
Email: okieirish@sstelco.com
Date: Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Time: 19:52:19

Message

Greetings shipmates, news from far east......ern oklahoma. Salina Oklahoma pop.1400, has a new VFW Commander. EM1 bobby crosswhite 69-72 was elected in april. DC2 mike fanning 68-71 was elected Quartermaster and EM2 drexel holt 68-71 was elected Junior Vice Commander of post 5307. Commander crosswhite was overheard to say he never thought he would rise to the rank Admiral Layman held when he was our Captain. A landing party from the Strauss has gained control of a small post in the middle of the Cherokee Nation and will hold until the last man. regards Mike(firemain)Fanning 68-71

First_Name: Kenneth
Last_Name: Slack
Email: teachccwnv@netzero.net
Date: Friday, September 03, 2010
Time: 18:35:35

Message

Just found this site. Fantastic website I served from Mar 1969 to Feb 1971 1st division. Ben Blakeman was one of my heros as well as my chief. Sorry to see that he passed. Lookin fort Tom "Mad Mac" McAnally and others that served with. Keep up the great site and thank you

First_Name: Billie
Last_Name: Moore
Email: truckerbwm@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Time: 10:01:49

Message

Hey ShipMates, To anyone that was on board during the time of 1974 thru 1976, Home Port, Honnollu Hawaii, And this was the time we went to Bremerton Wa, for a Class-A overhaul, Would like to hear from anyone that was stationed during that time period. Or any Ship Mates that remember me, Billie Mooore 1st Div. Also if anyone has any info on Tim Mitchell 1st Div,- Later Signal Man. Please let me know. Thanks for any help you can give me in this matter. Smokin Joe- Beautiful Lady!...Billie.

First_Name: arthur glumpy
Last_Name: jorgensen
Email: aljorg2@netzero.net
Date: Thursday, September 16, 2010
Time: 00:41:12

Message

i served from 1980-1984 in m division , once a snipe always a snipe west pac 82 stood watch of forward engine room ( who remembers the painting in the head) interested in who is going to reunions from mm and bt divisions from 80-84 interested in hearing from anyone who remembers me and the amc pacer

First_Name: Don
Last_Name: Hulen
Email: donhulen@gmail.com
Date: Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Time: 22:16:32

Message

Looking for Tim Boydstun. I was stationed at Tug base Guam in 70's with him. HTCS Don Hulen

First_Name: Sharon
Last_Name: Wagner
Email: drwinchicago@sbcglobal.net
Date: Monday, October 04, 2010
Time: 08:23:02

Message

I recently learned that my brother served on this ship during the Vietnam war. His name was Robert Vincent Wagner. I believe his was E-2. I do not have the dates he served. I have been trying to find him for a long time. We have different mother's and were not raised together. I recently connected with his oldest son, and that is how I learned he served. If you knew him, I would really like to know about him. He died in 2006, so I can only know him through the people who knew him. I would really appreciate anything you can tell me about him, the good and the bad. Thank you so much, and God Bless you for your service. Sincerely, Sharon Wagner-White

First_Name: Henry
Last_Name: Simpson
Email: hankn2@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, October 25, 2010
Time: 07:36:45

Message

Just checking in to see if anyone out there remembers all of the good time we had as a crew.

First_Name: BM2( SW) Del
Last_Name: CHESSER
Email: DELCHESSER@YAHOO.COM
Date: Sunday, October 31, 2010
Time: 19:54:38

Message

I WAS ON THE JOEY FROM 1985-1989. I MET ALOT OF INTERESTING PEOPLE. SOME I'LL NEVER FOR GET. I HOPE THAT ANY OF YOU MY SHIPMATES THAT READ THIS NOW WILL REMEMBER ME. ON FACEBOOK, AS WE SPEAK. I MISS ALL OF YOU AND FOR SOME WHO MAY THINK OR THOUGHT I WAS DEAD WELL I' M STILL HERE FOR NOW. I WOULD LIKE TO TALK TO YOU GUYS AGAIN. TO HEAR HOW MUCH HAS CHANGED SINCE WE LAST SPOKE. ALMOST 30 YEARS AGO. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU. YOU GUYS WILL ALWAYS BE MY FRIENDS. NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE.

First_Name: Craig
Last_Name: Gloger
Email: cgloger@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Time: 19:44:57

Message

Free dinner Novermber 11th at Applebee's for veterans

First_Name: Craig
Last_Name: Gloger
Email: cgloger@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Time: 19:45:13

Message

Free dinner Novermber 11th at Applebee's for veterans http://www.applebees.com/vetsDay/?ref=VetsHeroMenu

First_Name: doug
Last_Name: sloan
Email: dsloan69@bellsouth.net
Date: Saturday, November 20, 2010
Time: 05:41:47

Message

i was the electrician on board in number 2 engine room when the bombs or so called mines went off and we lost @2 boilers cause of the amount of water that went down the stack, so i was told,and put out the fires in @ 2 boiler and i i had to make a quick decision to cut off our power from @ 2 engine room were i was standing with the light fixture above my head coming apart and falling on my head at the same time but i looked up and Mr. Edmonds from Nashville, tn, was looking at me and expecting me to do what i was supposed to do next,(he just knew i was supposed to do something as the generators was slowing down and the light was dimming so i jumped upand threw the switch that cut the front of the ship- from the rear of the ship electrically putting myself and everone around me in the dark, throwing some more switches in the off position and then reconnecting the front of the ship with the rear end with power and at the same time hoping thgat @ 2 boilert room didn<t have any gaping holes to the sea. i would like to give a shout out out to Lt. brown , lt. edmonds, evr1 in r and m,b div.s especially my man the colorado kid.mm2 jack pulman the rocket astronaut man and his lovely wife, congratsand best wishes

First_Name: Wayne
Last_Name: Scott
Email: wtscott2@gmail.com
Date: Monday, December 20, 2010
Time: 19:10:48

Message

I was aboard DDG-16 from around 1964 to 1968. I was a radar ET and my boss was Chief Derrigan. I boarded the ship in San Diego then it was off to Viet Nam. I remember the ship taking an Adrimal up the river to Bankok because the Oklahoma City was too large.

First_Name: william
Last_Name: Barlow
Email: williamebarlow@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, December 23, 2010
Time: 12:45:18

Message

When was it we went to the Sea Of O. ? It was during one of our WestPac cruises in the early 80's. Anyone have any pics of that era

First_Name: william
Last_Name: Barlow
Email: williamebarlow@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, December 23, 2010
Time: 12:45:23

Message

When was it we went to the Sea Of O. ? It was during one of our WestPac cruises in the early 80's. Anyone have any pics of that era

First_Name: Steve
Last_Name: Brownley
Email: stevebdog69@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, January 20, 2011
Time: 19:19:19

Message

Looking for any Fox Div. guys 1974 - 1977

First_Name: Stan
Last_Name: Miller
Email: Stan@columbus .rr.com
Date: Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Time: 15:11:36

Message

Anyone who was on the Strauss from 1968-1971 remember the band called the Secondary Con Artist? Well myself, Jerry Alloway, Ken Slack and Al Liner have found each other on Facebook. I am also in contact with Mike Fanning and Richard L. Jones. I would like to hear from anyone that was in Westpac around that time. Remember Spanish Gate? Crazy Amy? Jeepneys? How about when we crossed the equator?

First_Name: Manuel
Last_Name: Costa
Email: buzzcosta@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, February 28, 2011
Time: 09:33:27

Message

Just found this web site and will be checking in often. I transferd to the the Strauus precom at Newport in Feb 63 then on to Philly , rode her down the river through the canal and to Long Beach Got a swap to the Cimmaron AO22 before she left for Youkuska. Was an EM1 in R division. Any one around from that era am now 71 so doubt many are.

First_Name: Ralph
Last_Name: Durham
Email: hornhntr@3rivers.net
Date: Monday, February 28, 2011
Time: 12:38:21

Message

HI, I'm Ralph Durham. I was a SFP 3 on the Strauss in 1967 & 1968. I'm looking forward to connecting with former ship mates. I am going to the reunion in Washington in September. I plan to bring a scale model of the Strauss with me. I hope to hear from some of you soon. Ralph

First_Name: GREG
Last_Name: Paulsen
Email: mpaulsen2@cox.net
Date: Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Time: 00:59:30

Message

Looking for anybody in first div . Between 8/71 to 12/73 andy anderson,charels bocknevitz,ed sullivan ,tony prado,shane spratlin,dennis,urquedes?.,

First_Name: Bob
Last_Name: Gaboury
Email: BobGaboury@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Time: 17:51:31

Message

Hey Y'all, still kicking here, Paul McGovern EM2 and I were just chatting and planning on making the 2012 reunion. Gabby IC3

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Swann
Email: therealmush@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, March 21, 2011
Time: 17:46:14

Message

OS2, OI DIV 84-88. Just checking back in. Cheers to all Robert

First_Name: Doreen
Last_Name: Roach
Email: divadee49@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, March 31, 2011
Time: 17:48:29

Message

I am looking for Rob "Animal" Kerr. He was aboard during the early 80's. If you know what happened to him--please let me know. And anyone else who remembers me, please drop me a line! Thanks!!!

First_Name: Thomas
Last_Name: Higley
Email: tom.higley@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Time: 22:11:58

Message

RE: william barlow and Sea of O and pics from that era, I have tons in storage i'll see if I cant dig em out. Also trying to reconnect with ET1 Guy Johnson, lost his email and phone number. would appreciate any help. Thanks OC DIv, Sigs, 79-82

First_Name: tim
Last_Name: zarifis
Email: timzarifis@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, June 13, 2011
Time: 23:10:44

Message

still lookin for charles dixon from joliet il

First_Name: tim
Last_Name: zarifis
Email: timzarifis@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Time: 00:17:15

Message

nice to see Steve Wright ( doc) on here: I fell out with heat stroke #1 fireroom 1976. man you gave me 2 days my the bunk, with plenty of water to drink and salt tabs, thanks again! Few years later I had heat stroke again which resulted in cluster migraine headaches which haunt me to present day. Chuck Dixon Email me!!! BT1 Dodge #1 fireroom you still in nyny? Sloan still in hutch ks? d

First_Name: Phil
Last_Name: "awesome maasen" Maasen -MM3
Email: phillmaasen@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, June 19, 2011
Time: 09:33:51

Message

Served on board from 8/85 to 1/90 on the decommissioning crew. Worked in Mn. Control [#1 engine room]

First_Name: Bill
Last_Name: Fry
Email: woodchip61@msn.com
Date: Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Time: 18:59:52

Message

Anyone remember Machenist Mate Bill Fry Aft. Eng. Rm. 80 to 84. If so drop me a line. I'd love to here from you.

First_Name: Bill
Last_Name: Fry
Email: woodchip61@msn.com
Date: Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Time: 19:03:30

Message

Anyone remember Machenist Mate Bill Fry Aft. Eng. Rm. 80 to 84. If so drop me a line. I'd love to here from you.

First_Name: Jeff
Last_Name: Willhite
Email: rolltidewmc@bellsouth.net
Date: Friday, July 01, 2011
Time: 09:53:27

Message

I was stationed aboard 1971 to 1973, I got out right before she went back to viet nam to help in the exit. I just found this site and i remember a fellow sailor Alan Gelipsy ( spelling ?) who was dating a hawaian . Would like to here from him or any one who may know how to get ahold of him.

First_Name: Ernest {Ernie}
Last_Name: Vipond BT2
Email: erniev1949@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, July 29, 2011
Time: 21:42:11

Message

Just found this site.Onboard after refit PH 1969,left after last shot fired WestPac 1972.I was onboard for Amchitka test ,NorthPac {followed Soviet Task Force}WestPac 1970 and WestPac1972.Still remember the manny times of boiler tubes bursting {19 different times}I was a BT2 in the after fire room when we were damaged by Navy mines.Reports of water down our after stack are wrong.Thinking of possible crew reunion as i live in WA state.My brother Jerry served onboard 1970 WestPac.

First_Name: harry
Last_Name: becker
Email: hibecker@comcast.net
Date: Saturday, August 13, 2011
Time: 20:07:48

Message

i served on board the strauss from 09/66 to 03/69.i was in fox division and worker on the wds system in combat and the 39A search.I'm trying to join the group on yahoo. i left the ship as an FTM2. Harry B.

First_Name: harry
Last_Name: becker
Email: hibecker@comcast.net
Date: Saturday, August 13, 2011
Time: 20:08:20

Message

i served on board the strauss from 09/66 to 03/69.i was in fox division and worker on the wds system in combat and the 39A search.I'm trying to join the group on yahoo. i left the ship as an FTM2. Harry B.

First_Name: Charlie
Last_Name: Bennett
Email: bennettc@nycap.rr.com
Date: Thursday, September 01, 2011
Time: 07:23:24

Message

Hello Earnie, I am sure you remember me. I hope all is well with you and yours. This is the first I have heard about water down the stacks and you are right that didn't happen. We lost the boilers because the stops were closed from the deck after it was reported we were taking on water and Chief Ski wanted us out of the space. We did have mud on the stacks but as far as I knew no water went down the stacks.

First_Name: Eric
Last_Name: Metelits
Email: ericmetelits@hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Time: 17:46:56

Message

I am looking to get in tough with James G. Spooner. If anyone has contact inforamtion plese email me.

First_Name: Daniel
Last_Name: Brooks
Email: dbb49@att.net
Date: Friday, September 30, 2011
Time: 20:30:13

Message

Mike Fry are you still out there? somehow I lost touch , if you see this drop me a line or give me a call. New email is DBB49@att.net I would love to hear from anyone else I knew who is interested in corresponding Dan

First_Name: daniel
Last_Name: brooks
Email: dbb49@att.net
Date: Friday, September 30, 2011
Time: 21:05:23

Message

I have noticed several comments on the night we ran over the mines or whatever it was in hi-pong harbor. I was on throttles and phones in main control and like everyone else was scared to death. The big problem was nobody knew what was happening. We didn't know if we had been bombed , shelled, or what. I think it was Charlie Goulding on the phones in aft fireroom who reported fires out . Than it went quiet from both the aft fireroom and engine room. Chief Lusk ordered us to crossconnect as soon as he heard we after engineroom and they came back on line. We were at flank speed to start with and the bridge kept calling for more speed, however with only the foward fireroom still on the line were were only limping along. Its was great when we learned that the ship was ok.

First_Name: daniel
Last_Name: brooks
Email: dbb49@att.net
Date: Friday, September 30, 2011
Time: 21:05:28

Message

I have noticed several comments on the night we ran over the mines or whatever it was in hi-pong harbor. I was on throttles and phones in main control and like everyone else was scared to death. The big problem was nobody knew what was happening. We didn't know if we had been bombed , shelled, or what. I think it was Charlie Goulding on the phones in aft fireroom who reported fires out . Than it went quiet from both the aft fireroom and engine room. Chief Lusk ordered us to crossconnect as soon as he heard we after engineroom and they came back on line. We were at flank speed to start with and the bridge kept calling for more speed, however with only the foward fireroom still on the line were were only limping along. Its was great when we learned that the ship was ok.

First_Name: Larry (buddy)
Last_Name: Miles
Email: oddfellow222@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Time: 20:03:19

Message

On board for one westpac cruise in 1972 assigned to boiler room # 1. Hoping to find Phillip (Tweed) Volze, Lester (birdman) Partridge,or any BT's from that era. I left the ship a week before she set sail on the next Westpac cruise which I think was in April or May of 1973. I went to Tripler Army Hospital to have knee surgery and after the Strauss returned from Nam she went to drydock in Bremerton, Wa.

First_Name: Larry (Buddy)
Last_Name: Miles
Email: oddfellow222@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Time: 21:40:09

Message

Just found this web site.served on 'Smokin' Joe" from 10/71 to 5/73 as Bt in forward boiler room. Saw messages from Charlie Bennett and Cary Huffman.Also would like to hear from Tweed, Cory,Rat Myles,any other BT's from that era. BT3 Mike Lawton passed away in 2004 not sure why. He was in fireroom#2.You guys remember Angleton and Frenchy Acoin? I think they were 1st class BT's or maybe Chief's.Reading all the messages on the board brought back a lot of memories.Hope to hear from you all.

First_Name: sam
Last_Name: gentry
Email: sam.gentrynwd@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, October 29, 2011
Time: 13:04:26

Message

looking for people from the last year of the smoking joe. Find me on facebook or email me please.

First_Name: Jim
Last_Name: Hansen
Email: jazhansen@msn.com
Date: Sunday, October 30, 2011
Time: 09:37:06

Message

Please join us on the Strauss Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/156048061106963/

First_Name: David
Last_Name: Hanson
Email: pinnmar@aol.com
Date: Sunday, November 06, 2011
Time: 23:43:06

Message

Served from 1986 - 1989, RM2(SW) Hanson, Drop me an email. Look forward to hearing from you guys.

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Time: 14:35:51

Message

Was aboard 69-72. BM3. Was the cocksman on whale boat in Dang Harbor doing beer run. Have lots of pictures. Can call at 270-851-0007. Live in Ky. now. Did live in Mi. Just found this web site. Have to say very interesting. Wish I could have been to some of the reuions. Member of the American Legion Honor Guard Post 236. And was the Commander at the VFW Post 4012. My web site is www.danescountry.com . Feel free to say Hi.

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Thursday, November 10, 2011
Time: 07:46:05

Message

I was down in the forword magazine with Pappy when I heard we were brackeded by enemy fire Captain Arnold did some great evasive monovers and got us out of there. Have some pictures of us with all the round stacked around us. Was a intense moment.

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Thursday, November 10, 2011
Time: 10:00:02

Message

Have pictures in Da Nang Harbor when we went ashore. Also have pictures going into most ports like Thiland, Tawian etc. Pictures of shells spilled on deck during rearming. Might have the name of Capt. wrong. Arnold was off in 71 I beleive. Forgot name of new Capt in 71/72. Remember name of XO? Memory not so good any more.

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Thursday, November 10, 2011
Time: 10:10:21

Message

Would be nice if they would post the dates of when each ribbon was awarded and each gold star. I know we were awarded the Combat, Viet Nam, and Viet Nam Campain with 3 Gold Stars. Not sure of the rest. 69-72 West Packs.

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Thursday, November 10, 2011
Time: 10:22:08

Message

CORRECTION: Commander of VFW Post 1084 not 4012, Coxman and Da Nang. Spelling and memory not my strong point. Going on this web site has brought back a lot of forgotten moments aboard.

First_Name: Craig
Last_Name: Boyd
Email: craig.boyd1@gmail.com
Date: Saturday, November 26, 2011
Time: 11:36:37

Message

I've been checking out the sites of the Pearl Harbor DDGs. I was on the Goldsborough from '66-'69 and we shared a berth at Bravo pier with the Joseph Strauss many times. I found this site through the Adams Class Veterans Association. Pearl was home to an interesting array of ships back then, from the cutting edge Adams class DDGs, to several Fletcher class DDs, heros of WWII. Even the Fletcher herself was there.

First_Name: Bill "Hooder Magooder"
Last_Name: Fry
Email: woodchip61@msn.com
Date: Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Time: 18:23:13

Message

Hi all, I am trying to locate old ship mates from the aft. eng. rm. from around 1980 to 1984. If you remember me give me a call. I am in the middle of a VA claim and need some back up claims + I would love to talk about old times. Thanks, and stay safe. Bill Fry

First_Name: Bob
Last_Name: Hansen
Email: hansen5772@sbcglobal.net
Date: Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Time: 11:39:36

Message

I served as an Operation Specialist on the JS from Sept 73-Aug 76. I caught the ship in Thailand and left it in Subic.....those were the days!!!

First_Name: Bob
Last_Name: Hansen
Email: hansen5772@sbcglobal.net
Date: Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Time: 11:43:13

Message

I served on the JS as an Operation Specialist from Sept73-Aug76. I caught the ship in Thailand and Departed it in Subic right after we got out of dry dock. I would like to hear from any of my combat buddies.

First_Name: david
Last_Name: jackson
Email: judith.jackson583@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 22:02:56

Message

rip stan you are missed but not forgoten air port park EWF

First_Name: Tim
Last_Name: Zarifis
Email: tzarifis@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, January 21, 2012
Time: 20:00:44

Message

Great to hear from Chuck Dixon,Joliet Il. Long time,lotta laughs! John Hulesman, u out there? North shore ring any bells, Sloan?

First_Name: Steven
Last_Name: Anderson
Email: sjnanders@centurylink.net
Date: Friday, January 27, 2012
Time: 14:48:59

Message

Steven "Andy" Anderson, EM3, all of 73 & 74. This is to update my email address. I plan to retire at the end of August and will attend the Strauss Reunion in Boston this year. This will be my first reunion and my wife and I are looking forward to it.

First_Name: Ed
Last_Name: Weaver
Email: netmanez@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, February 11, 2012
Time: 19:19:59

Message

Hi: Anyone out there from the Jan to Aug 1972 deployment from Hawaii to Vietnam. It would be nice to hear from you. Ed Weaver SK3

First_Name: anjali
Last_Name: tehlan
Email: anjalitehlan001@gmail.com
Date: Monday, February 27, 2012
Time: 06:35:59

Message

how i do my answer so what i got good marks in all subjects? i m student of humanities section.

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Terry
Email: mel_hudd@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, March 02, 2012
Time: 19:20:34

Message

I am trying to help my dad(Johnny(John)Terry)find some guys he was on the ship with. He can remember parts of the names, or all. He was on the ship from 1963-1967. This is all a bit a new and a little confusing to me, lol. The names he can rememeber are: Roy Clark D.R. Davis Holder (last name) McCoy (last name) You can contact me with the email above, or if you know where I can find these gentlemen that would be greatly apperciated. Thank You, Melissa

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Rickard
Email: yram1013@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, April 06, 2012
Time: 09:16:04

Message

Dear Brothers of the Strauss, I am happy to share this bit of info with all of you, especially those who were on at the same time that I was. That is because I hope that those who have open claims might be helped by the award that the government has given me, and that is 100% that includes "because of herbicide exposure". Yes, they finally admitted that many of my claims were because of the agent orange. The diabetes and the heart eschemia were the two that were recognized as a result of the "herbicides". In some way I hope this news if nothing else will be an encouragement to not give up on your claims. Full speed ahead. Sincerely, Mike Rickard/Hospital Corpsman/65-66.

First_Name: Jenny
Last_Name: Cezar
Email: jennelyn83@hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, May 02, 2012
Time: 17:03:01

Message

Hello All, I'm looking for a James "Jim" Musgrove, been searching the web for a couple years now. If anyone knows a way to contact him, please do so. My email is provided for contact. I would really like to just meet him. He was aboard the Strauss in the early 80's, during a West Pac, I believe in an engineering division of sorts.

First_Name: William
Last_Name: Barlow
Email: williamebarlow@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, August 07, 2012
Time: 12:32:21

Message

Would love to hear from anyone who served aboard the Joey from 1980-84. Sh1 Bill Barlow

First_Name: Archie
Last_Name: McClellan
Email: archie.mcclellan.2@us.af.mil
Date: Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Time: 17:46:26

Message

Aloha from Oahu Hawaii, I was station aboard the Smokin Joe from 1986 to 1990. Mahalo, MM3 "MAC" McClellan

First_Name: David
Last_Name: Satterfield
Email: Dasat17@aol.com
Date: Sunday, September 23, 2012
Time: 21:00:05

Message

Sk3 David Satterfield, Jack Of The Dust Worked for Senior Cheif Halgan. Stored the Food and issued it to the cooks from my first Wespac cruise in 1972 until getting out of Navy in 1975 , Bremerton Wa.

First_Name: BTFN Chris
Last_Name: BRASSILL 1976-78
Email: brassillchris@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, October 11, 2012
Time: 21:02:47

Message

Lookin 2 contact fellow snipes in forward Boiler room - Fireroom#1 years 1976-79 Pearl Harbor, Hi

First_Name: alex " kimo"
Last_Name: demello
Email: sdemello@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Time: 04:10:03

Message

aloha ray I was on strauss from 71-73 1st div. I recently bought a deck log cd. boy it really brought back memories, 40yrs. ago. I read from Charlie McDonald the days we were in danang harbor. we got to add 1 more day to it Feb 15 -72. Probably not going to help with a/o, but maybe july 30 1972 will. On deck log for that day we did small boat transfers "In" Qui Nhon Bay/Harbor. Qui Nhon harbor is a inland waterway. Read about Charlie Bennett,hope this can put a light to our situation for putting the "72" Joseph Strauss on a/o list. I've been talking to former shipmates, Ray Sygitowicz Scott Vierra.Hope to hear from other shipmates, "ENJOYING THE SUN " aloha kimo

First_Name: alex " kimo"
Last_Name: demello
Email: sdemello@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Thursday, November 01, 2012
Time: 02:45:15

Message

aloha Greg Paulsen I was in 1st div. 71-73 on Joe Strauss. I came on line, didn't know a site existed. It's really great to hear stories from the past.I remember guy's like you, ed Sullivan Shane Spratlin, Dennis (crazy) Urquides, Cris Acosta ,Tony Prado,(BIG) Andy Anderson,Greg Butts,Earl Joseph,Mike Kordash ,& my buddy FMFN Warny Hanamaikai the little firecracker. Hope to hear from you hoping all is fine. aloha from the Big Island BMSN KIMO Demello

First_Name: alex " kimo"
Last_Name: demello
Email: sdemello@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Thursday, November 01, 2012
Time: 03:50:28

Message

duane briggs it's been a long time.hope all is well.my name is alex kimo demello i was in 1st div. I remember doing small boat transfer's on the whale boat w/you & p. Bennett along w/ ens. kennedy with a radioman can't remember his name. You said you have pictures of doing runs in danang harbor & on shore, this would be great Because we need proof of having "foot on ground". Alot of our shipmates are feeling the affects of the war even forty years later. I read about Charlie Bennett w/ what he is going thru & it's not funny.IF at all possible contact me at sdemello@hawaii.rr.com or at ademello@hawaiigas.com we need to get joe strauss of 72 westpac on the agent orange list of ships.We had 11 days in danang we also ,on july 30 1972 were in Qui Nhon harbor doing small boat transfer. Unfortunately I was not on that detail that day, I probably was grounded & sent to the paintlocker room,thats where i was station guys , with my ukulele.Anyway give me a buzz we need to help out our braddahs of the strauss. aloha BRIGGS KIMO DEMELLO

First_Name: Steven "Andy"
Last_Name: Anderson
Email: sjnanders@centurylink.net
Date: Saturday, November 03, 2012
Time: 09:51:42

Message

Hey all. Just finished moving around. I retired at the end of June, 2012, and we moved into a new house in Missoula, MT. Reported on board in very early January 1973 and was an EM3 when I got out at the end of 1974. Dave Armstrong, another EM, where are you?

First_Name: alex " kimo"
Last_Name: demello
Email: sdemello@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Time: 02:48:05

Message

Santos Carrera : Read your post , even tho it was along time ago you wrote it. Any way my name is Kimo Demello (Hawaiian Boy) in 1ST Div. from 71-73 use to hang out with Crispin Acosta , Gilbert Cornejo, Stanley Harada (radioman) Eric Yamanaka (radioman) Edgar Sullivan Ray (SYGY) Sygitowicz Scotty Vierra Earl Joseph Randal (Isamu) Kawachi , Warney Hanamaikai Dennis Urquides Shane Spratlin. I remembered when you came on board from the Helo rep.I was the One that grabbed the sling you were coming down with. I know you were in 1st div for awhile. Hope to hear from you! Aloha Kimo

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Sunday, November 18, 2012
Time: 09:05:40

Message

Have a DVD with over 300 pictures. At sea, in DaNang, around Hawaii, aboard ship, different ports. 1969-1972.

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Time: 08:44:12

Message

If anyone wants DVD of 1969-1972 it's $7. Shipping is $5, dvd & case is $2. Don't make any money on it just covers cost.

First_Name: BTFN Chris
Last_Name: Brassill
Email: brassillchris@gmailcom
Date: Saturday, November 24, 2012
Time: 15:25:15

Message

Lookin 4 shipmates 1976-79 I was in #1 Fireroom Stationed Pearl Harbor To the gunnersmate who remembers Swim call off Guam Westpac 1977 I'll never forget it ! also I drove a badass red primer 57 Chevy when we where in drydock if anyone remembers It was the best time of my life on the Smokin Joe ! God Bless u all & the USA dated Thanksgiving 2012

First_Name: BTFN Chris
Last_Name: Brassill
Email: brassillchris@gmailcom
Date: Saturday, November 24, 2012
Time: 15:25:19

Message

Lookin 4 shipmates 1976-79 I was in #1 Fireroom Stationed Pearl Harbor To the gunnersmate who remembers Swim call off Guam Westpac 1977 I'll never forget it ! also I drove a badass red primer 57 Chevy when we where in drydock if anyone remembers It was the best time of my life on the Smokin Joe ! God Bless u all & the USA dated Thanksgiving 2012

First_Name: alex " kimo"
Last_Name: demello
Email: sdemello@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Time: 04:21:53

Message

Aloha Duane I received the DVD the other day, spent the whole night looking at it ,it was great trying to get my memory going. Wow thanks alot. Do you remember Scott Vierra ? He knows you . He applied for VA benefits , recently he got 10% for tinnitus (ringing in the ears) I guess we all can get that ,Strauss did alot of shelling back then. I have an appointment with the VA Dec 4 for PTSD ,another journey in my life. Mele Kalikimaka mea Hauole Makahiki Hou to you & your family & all of the Strausses of all years. Aloha Kimo

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Thursday, November 29, 2012
Time: 15:37:55

Message

When the Video is posted on the web site, anyone who recognizes anyone or place let me know so when I find a program that is easy to use and lets me put names on the photo's I will.

First_Name: Mike
Last_Name: Romero
Email: miker107@hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Time: 20:26:31

Message

I see on the home page there will be a reunion taking place in Galveston, Texas next year. If any of the crew from 1988 will be there I sure would like to go and see some of the old crew. I miss you guys. Mike

First_Name: Rich
Last_Name: Donohue
Email: r.donohue14@comcast.net
Date: Monday, December 17, 2012
Time: 18:08:18

Message

hello strauss sailors, my name is rich donohue. i served on the benner dd807 in feb. 1967 off the coast of north vietnam along with your ship and the canberra clg-2. we were the three ships to fire on north vietnam first on 26-28 feb. 1967 and again from 1-5 march 1967. i noticed on your site that someone posted some pictures of the strauss being straddled by fire from hon ma island. we also were straddled and returned counter-battery fire. i'm thinking of starting a web-page for the benner and i was wondering if anyone had taken pictures of us being straddled also. if they do exist, can copies please be sent to me at r.donohue14@comcast.net so i can add them to our website? i thank you in advance. rich donohue

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Felber
Email: robertf@acpwa.org
Date: Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Time: 15:46:12

Message

MERRY CHRISTMAS to all who served aboard the JOSEPH STRAUSS DDG 16 before, during, and after my time. (2-78 - 8-71, R-Division) and a HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!

First_Name: william
Last_Name: goforth
Email: govikes@tds.net
Date: Thursday, December 20, 2012
Time: 21:54:31

Message

hey mates my email adress has changed nice to see the comments went to the reunion in peoria ill couple years back no one from 79-82 era but enjoyed it i met shelly from the boat rescue july 15 1980 in san fransico god bless her she thinks the world of the SMOKING JOE!!!! merry xmas to all!!!

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Felber
Email: robertf@acpwa.org
Date: Friday, January 18, 2013
Time: 15:34:21

Message

Opps!!! typo. I served aboard 2-68 - 8-71.

First_Name: Donald (Don)
Last_Name: Colvin (BT-3)
Email: dwcolvin@outlook.com
Date: Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Time: 15:01:59

Message

Hi, to all my old shipmates still out there, we,re all getting up there in age aren,t we? I was aboard the Strauss from '72 -75 in #2 fireroom. I just got a new computer and found the Strauss website. It brought back a lot of old memories. Would like to hear from any old shipmates. I live in St. James, MO. Ph# 314-435-2566 cell ph. I probably won't answer but leave message I will call back!

First_Name: alex " kimo"
Last_Name: demello
Email: sdemello@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Sunday, February 03, 2013
Time: 03:49:20

Message

aloha everyone hoping to find someone that has a copy of the stars & stripes mag. for year 72. looking for article about the mine explosion's on June 4th. any help would be appreciated. I was on Strauss from 71-73.

First_Name: jim
Last_Name: hansen
Email: jazhansen@msn.com
Date: Monday, February 04, 2013
Time: 18:56:42

Message

Hey guys! Join us on the Strauss Facebook page. We have lots of discussion and photos that we share. The page is restricted to Strauss shipmates and you have to ask to join. https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/156048061106963/

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Gagliardi
Email: mikegags1959@gmail.com
Date: Monday, May 20, 2013
Time: 14:47:40

Message

1980 westpac great times n long time ago Hi to Hoop n Jones Jones a Jersey guy like myself Take care

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Burke
Email: johnandmaryannburke@windstream.net
Date: Sunday, June 02, 2013
Time: 11:13:37

Message

Just was able to work myself this far into the web site, I was on precom crew and served onboard until Dec 1965. Would like to know if this gets through to anyone. Hope to make the reunion this year........John Burke, Personnelman

First_Name: DALE
Last_Name: WARD
Email: BADGER417@WINDSTREAM.NET
Date: Sunday, June 30, 2013
Time: 13:03:47

Message

Just found this site and see alot of people having health problems. I myself have type II diabetes, heart problems,ringing in ears, and lung problems. All are signs of the areas that our ship was in. Have tried to get assistance from VA and there is no record of our Ship being in Vietamn and not even listed as a vietamn Vet. That stinks. If anyone can help with any information on this please let us know. I served in the Navy from 1972-1975.

First_Name: Ray
Last_Name: Berilla
Email: webmaster@ussjosephstrauss.org
Date: Sunday, June 30, 2013
Time: 16:55:27

Message

Dale, please go to the following page on our website. http://www.ussjosephstrauss.org/store/Deck_logs/Order%20form.htm There you will find deck logs which document our service in Vietnam. Unfortunately the VA only recognizes service on land or in rivers in Vietnam in support of disability claims. To date they only recognize the following dates for the Strauss: Mekong River Delta March 4, 1966 and Ganh Rai Bay during November 7 and December 7, 1968

First_Name: Gregg
Last_Name: Griffin
Email: Grif209@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, July 08, 2013
Time: 22:53:44

Message

1973 cruise PN 3rd class CPO was Fallago Buddies: Nick Childers, Bub Painter, 2 West Virgina buddie. Satterfield & Knutson

First_Name: Bruce ( Andy )
Last_Name: Anderson
Email: brucea@midwestinfo.net
Date: Thursday, August 01, 2013
Time: 23:50:11

Message

Served on the Smoke'n Joe 78 to 82 . would like to know if anyone who served then is going to Texas for the reunion ? Bruce

First_Name: john
Last_Name: Barton
Email: Classiccarjohn@Yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, August 15, 2013
Time: 20:12:36

Message

Trying to contact anyone who served on the West Pac-Vietnam tour from August 1968-February 1969. I was in 1st Division BM3 they had me in charge of paint locked of all things not bad duty. I still like to paint. I lost contact with everyone since I did not extend for cruise to New Zealand (other places). Was getting out end of February 1969 and had to get home after discharge to finish finance for a 1969 Mustang 428 Cobra Jet(Mach 1) I had put down payment on through the Navy Exchange. I remember a Gunners Mate (no name-memory failing after 42 years) who also purchased a car through the Navy exchange at the same time(he was from California) 1969Torino 428 Cobrajet Sure would especially like to hear from him or any other who may remember me. I would love to get a copy of the cruise book for that time or have someone make me a copy and I would gladly pay for the copied book. I remember the name Ector Villanueva. Was he in 1st division? Any one in 1st Division please contact me. I have made contact with DAV locally for Agent Orange related Type 2 diabetes. Anyone who has "Agent Orange" related illnesses could you please let me know what you did or are doing to get help.

First_Name: mark
Last_Name: flora
Email: mflora1211@aol.com
Date: Monday, August 26, 2013
Time: 23:46:29

Message

hey....dennis ingersoll u out ther?

First_Name: Joe
Last_Name: West
Email: Joe@brooklynwaterbagels.com
Date: Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Time: 22:14:57

Message

Shipmates, served on board as the HM from April 1969 to September 1970. Many great memories, did freeze my butt in Alaska and didn't come close to growing a beard! Remember being assigned to the far side of Ford Fid due to blowing black in Pearl, long walk across the runway to the fleet landing. Would love to here from fellow shipmate.

First_Name: Joe
Last_Name: West
Email: Joe@brooklynwaterbagels.com
Date: Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Time: 22:15:05

Message

Shipmates, served on board as the HM from April 1969 to September 1970. Many great memories, did freeze my butt in Alaska and didn't come close to growing a beard! Remember being assigned to the far side of Ford Fid due to blowing black in Pearl, long walk across the runway to the fleet landing. Would love to here from fellow shipmate.

First_Name: tim
Last_Name: humes
Email: timothyhumes@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, September 20, 2013
Time: 11:31:50

Message

does anybody remember "westpac86" when "slammin sammy" decided to take the con away from the harbor pilot in Sydney and destroy that sailing yacht?

First_Name: IRVIN H.
Last_Name: GAUBERT JR.
Email: GAUBERT5456@COMCAST.NET
Date: Thursday, October 24, 2013
Time: 15:43:43

Message

I WAS A PLANK OWNER FROM 63/66 IST DIV. SEAMEN THEN M DIV. BT3 WHEN I LEFT IN OCT.66 IN HAWAII. THANKS TO RAY BERILLA FOR THE INFO. TO QUALIFY FOR AGENT ORANGE IN BROWN WATERS. TYPE 2 DIABETES. WOULD ANYONE KNOW IF WE QUALIFY FOR PTSD? FROM COMBAT IN VIETNAM? IF ANYONE REMEMBERS ME PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME AT (504)491-5456. I LIVE IN KODAK, TN. 37764. KEEP MY LOUISIANA #

First_Name: Bill
Last_Name: Leslie
Email: billleslie1951@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, November 05, 2013
Time: 13:15:13

Message

Where does one go to start the process of getting the combat action ribbon? West pact 1970. Radioman.

First_Name: Herman
Last_Name: Guido
Email: bntgd@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, December 04, 2013
Time: 20:00:11

Message

I was a GM on the Strauss from 65-69. Trying to find Bobby Dowty from Selmer TN. Any info about him would be apprecated.

First_Name: Bob
Last_Name: Dunham
Email: rmdunham@frontier.com
Date: Saturday, December 07, 2013
Time: 18:21:27

Message

In response to Bill Leslie asking who to go to for consideration for retroactive award of a Combat Action Ribbon (CAR). I did the same thing about 10 years ago and submitted my package to: Navy Personnel Command (PERS-13E) Room 5409 9700 Page Ave., St Louis MO 63132-5100 This is the cognizant office for this request. If your package moves as slow as mine then you'll get a letter back about 4 months after sending in your request saying they're working on it. From there it'll take about another year before you hear again and this time you'll either get it or they'll turn you down. Be patient with them and don't do what I did and piss them off by bugging them. Maybe if I had been a little more patient I'd have gotten it earlier. My package - and this is just a suggestion - included a detailed summary that I wrote of the events supporting approval along with an endorsement letter from my Division Officer at the time and a copy of my evals from back then that mentioned: "frequent enemy rocket and mortar attacks" on the base where I was stationed. Good Luck!

First_Name: Dennis
Last_Name: Dale
Email: d1472dale@a0l.com
Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Time: 22:23:29

Message

An answer to Herman Guido's question about Bobby Dowty. The last known address,phone number & e-mail I have is 1442 Blue Jay Ct. Punta Gurda, Fla. bobd43@embarqmail.com. Do you remember me, I was also in GM Div. from 1963-1966. I remember you. I am in the blue book 1961-1966.

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Fread
Email: riverat512@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, December 27, 2013
Time: 22:16:55

Message

I noticed that one of the directors is Bob Wilson. Is the same Lt. Robert Wilson who was the ship's navigator on the 71' cruise to Nam? I was the QM1 then and worked under him.

First_Name: Vincent
Last_Name: Petty
Email: Ludite64@aol.com
Date: Saturday, December 28, 2013
Time: 19:08:51

Message

My father, Richard Petty, was a GM on the Joseph Strauss, April 1966 to May 1968. Would like to hear from those that may have served with him.

First_Name: David
Last_Name: Skulstad
Email: dskul1@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, January 08, 2014
Time: 13:18:16

Message

I served on Strauss from 1973-75. I was surfing the net and found this on u-tube. If you haven't seen it yet, I thought shipmates here might be interested. It is in Greed, but is pretty good anyway. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ujuBKdWqxs

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: danes@danescountry.com
Date: Sunday, January 19, 2014
Time: 12:21:52

Message

Now have the Cruise Books for 68-69, 70 & 72 on DVD and photo's of Hawaii, Operations at Sea, Over Seas, Ports, Personnel & DaNang all on DVD. Any one wishing to have a copy is welcome to have one. Shows some of us on DaNang for disability claims. For one DVD it's $8, for both $10. That for the DVD's, Case's and shipping. Not in it for the money, just to cover the cost. Can call 270-851-0007 or e-mail danes@danescountry.com. Also Ray(Webmaster) your welcome to post DVD's on web site.

First_Name: Crespin
Last_Name: Acosta
Email: acostacrespin@ gmail.com
Date: Monday, January 27, 2014
Time: 23:58:37

Message

Hello kimo this is crespin acosta good to know you are still out there call me at 562 6238171. Hope to hear from you you were one good friend remember subic ! Good times god bless

First_Name: john
Last_Name: whitaker
Email: suejohn777@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, February 21, 2014
Time: 07:32:21

Message

Ahoy shipmates, it has been a while since I last reported in,noticed a message from IRVIN H. GAUBERT BM/3 #2fireroom,63-66. I served in #2engineroom 5-64/11-67 if you see this give me a shout back,have some news about another 2fireroom sailor,same time period. Also if anyone knows where to get original Desron3 and Desron25 patches please let me know.....til next time, clear skies,fair winds and calm seas.

First_Name: larry
Last_Name: ledesma
Email: ltopstitch@yahoo.com
Date: Saturday, March 08, 2014
Time: 03:30:45

Message

hey all my former shipmates, em2 ledesma here just wanted, to update my email, ... ltopstitch@yahoo.com, im in upland ,calif. so let me know if your in the area, great serving with you guys 1987- 1990, take care, god bless!

First_Name: Daniel
Last_Name: Welker
Email: welkdani@isu.edu.com
Date: Saturday, April 05, 2014
Time: 10:50:55

Message

Hello I was on the Smoking Joe from 1980-1985 and I worked in the Foward Fire Room the entire time. Some of my best shipmates was Tim Mauchley, David (Skip) Hawkins, Fernando Eckenberg (Ernie), Jeff Snore, Dean Darling, Rodney Reugger, Thomas Jones, and RIP the best man at my wedding to Josie in the Philippines, Steve Worthen whom I heard died in a fire aboard some ship. I would really enjoy meeting with some of my old ship mates.

First_Name: Daniel
Last_Name: Welker
Email: welkdani@isu.edu.com
Date: Sunday, April 06, 2014
Time: 10:53:38

Message

Hello Shipmates, I think that I mixed up my dates I was on the Smoking Joe. Foward Fireroom from about June 1977 to June 1982 or so Hello to Phillip D'Avy

First_Name: Anthony
Last_Name: Maldonado
Email: anthony.maldonado@aes.com
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2014
Time: 19:22:04

Message

Hello fellow Mates, I served onboard the Joseph Strauss from July of 1981 to June of 1985. I hope all is going well. Take care, EM3 Maldonado

First_Name: Ector
Last_Name: Villanueva
Email: hawaii_vic@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, May 08, 2014
Time: 16:00:42

Message

I was on the Strauss from 1966 to 1970. My rank was BM3. I live in Dallas Texas an my phone number is 1 214 883 1011. I would like to hear from anyone that remembers me.

First_Name: Ector
Last_Name: Villanueva
Email: hawaii_vic@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, May 08, 2014
Time: 16:01:24

Message

I was on the Strauss from 1966 to 1970. My rank was BM3. I live in Dallas Texas an my phone number is 1 214 883 1011. I would like to hear from anyone that remembers me.

First_Name: Jim
Last_Name: Tharp
Email: jimtharp@bellsuth.net
Date: Monday, May 12, 2014
Time: 12:20:09

Message

Ltjg, SC, 1968-1969

First_Name: ned
Last_Name: powell
Email: bg_powell1954@cox.net
Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Time: 15:59:34

Message

I was on Strauss 79-83. Any FC or GM at the same time ( Bo, Terry, Fred, Sluggo, Marty)

First_Name: tim
Last_Name: humes
Email: humestimothy@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Time: 13:04:16

Message

does anybody know the whereabouts of stg2 richard w. long ?

First_Name: tim
Last_Name: humes
Email: humestimothy@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Time: 13:04:25

Message

does anybody know the whereabouts of stg2 richard w. long ?

First_Name: Roger
Last_Name: Nichols
Email: Nroger04@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, August 10, 2014
Time: 21:04:53

Message

On board dec 67 to mar 70. Does anyone remember recovering the astronauts on their return from moon walk? I have the first photo of earth from that mission - for real! We were following the aircraft carrier they were rescued with (the capsule) got to view them on recently as soon as shoots opened to splash down! Where is Maurice king and Ronald d. Weems? This is roger nichols

First_Name: Obie
Last_Name: Pierce
Email: goburself@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Time: 05:31:49

Message

Anyone who would like to be included or recognized in a forthcoming book, is invited to submit stories and photos during the period from Oct 86 - Decomissioning. Main focus of the book is on SK Anderson, and the '88 westpac. Climax is "Operation Praying Mantis". All submissions should be as detailed as possible. Interviews are possible so please include contact information. In this age of technology, there is no need to mail any material. Please scan, write or copy and send to goburself@yahoo.com Operations and weapons department will provide critical and technical info, so please get submissions to me asap. Thanks to all of you for your service! May God's blessings be upon you!

First_Name: Paula
Last_Name: Binford
Email: renee2325@wavecable.com
Date: Saturday, September 27, 2014
Time: 21:58:33

Message

Hi..I am the daughter of Troy A. "Pappy" Collins. On Sept 4,2014 my father passed away, and I came across this site needing a connection to him..I found some of you have posted about Pappy. I was hoping that anyone who has any stories about my father would pass them on to me. He passed away having 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren that would love to hear stories about him. ONE of his grandsons just graduated from boot camp and would love stories as well..Pappy was buried with full military honors and is laid to rest at Tohoma national cemetery in Kent Wa. Please email if you have any stories for his wife or family..Thanks Paula Collins Binford. We have also set up a memorial page for him on Facebook called Troy A Collins memorial

First_Name: Robert
Last_Name: Mayer
Email: robertmayer111@comcast.net
Date: Saturday, October 04, 2014
Time: 15:38:30

Message

Ray, I believe we served about the same time 1967 - 1970. My hearing has been going bad for years. The VA has issued me two hearing aids. I've had several hearing tests by the VA and one examination by a audiologist. But the VA denies that the hearing loss is service connected. If you or anyone remembers on my first west pac cruise 1968 in north vietnam we fired so much that we would completely rearm every third day. Not only did I get caught several times on deck during firing missions but I slept under MT 52 in R Div. Can you or anyone provide me with information that I can use to appeal the VA decision????? Thank you!!

First_Name: wiliam robert
Last_Name: pickeren
Email: williamp612@aol.com
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2014
Time: 20:10:30

Message

my dad was on that ship william peter pickeren

First_Name: ARTHUR
Last_Name: WIEGAND
Email: ARTWIEGAND@MSN.COM
Date: Monday, October 13, 2014
Time: 11:48:33

Message

I was on board during the the 68-69 West Pac Tour. I was one of the Cooks. I have various medical conditions, including Diabetes. After I saw our Ship on the list of ships exposed to Agent Orange, I applied for benefits with the VA. I have so far received them for the diabetes and am waiting to hear about other contentions.

First_Name: Patrick
Last_Name: Meadows
Email: prmead2127@comcast.net
Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Time: 17:00:27

Message

Great reunion in Burlingame.Camp and his crew did a bangup job!!

First_Name: Patrick
Last_Name: Meadows
Email: prmead2127@comcast.net
Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Time: 17:00:43

Message

Great reunion in Burlingame.Camp and his crew did a bangup job!!

First_Name: Tim
Last_Name: Humes
Email: humestimothy@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, November 10, 2014
Time: 11:50:11

Message

Last night while searching for an old shipmate, STG2 (SW) Richard W. Long, I was shocked to find his obituary. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 16, 2013. So long old friend, Fair winds and following Seas.

First_Name: Nancy
Last_Name: Day
Email: njday@comcast.net
Date: Saturday, December 27, 2014
Time: 18:12:11

Message

My brother is Michael Louis Glenn and he was a radio operator from about 1971-1973 on the USS Joseph Strauss. He died long ago, not long after returning home, when I was 16 years old. If anyone has information or stories you could share (good or bad) I would love to more about his time in Vietnam. Thank you!

First_Name: Marc
Last_Name: Keyes
Email: mmkeyes@gmail.com
Date: Friday, January 02, 2015
Time: 12:33:30

Message

This is Marc Keyes and I was looking around the Web and found the USS Joseph Strauss DDG-16 web site. I was on the Strauss during WestPac 68-69. I was an electricians mate in "R" Division. I was the one who won the beauty contest (Miss Polywog) crossing the equator. If anyone remembers me please send me an email. Marc

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Whitaker
Email: Johnboy1146@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Time: 07:03:16

Message

New email address to any one who sees this message the email address above is my new address,iwould like to hear from anyone who served onboard strauss from 65/67. I was on board from 5-65/11-67,worked in#2eng.rm.

First_Name: Daniel
Last_Name: Welker
Email: welkdani@isu.edu.com
Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Time: 14:29:49

Message

hello shipmates I was on the Strauss for 5 years from about 1978 to 1982 Foward Fireroom

First_Name: Mary
Last_Name: Collins
Email: troymary8@msn.com
Date: Sunday, March 15, 2015
Time: 20:30:40

Message

I am the wife of Pappy Collins who was on the Strauss from late in 1971 thru 1974 .Pappy Collins passed away on Sept 4th of 2014 When he talked about his time on ships it was always about the Strauss and the good friends that he had while aboard just wanted to post that he had passed He is buried at Tahoma National Cemetery in Washington State

First_Name: Dane
Last_Name: Rutledge
Email: dane.rutledge@daktronics.com
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Time: 12:57:58

Message

jeff davis? sonny crocket? hawaii crew members, decomm people

First_Name: Alex Kimo
Last_Name: Demello
Email: ademellojr@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, June 05, 2015
Time: 02:49:37

Message

Does anybody know the proper way to put our ship on the agent orange list for 1972 in Danang Harbor, because I've been on shore many times to pick up mail, supplies,& parts for engine rm & gunner's mates. I know for a fact there were many men & officer's that went to shore, in April 72 we had alot of mooring along side USS Hector,Changing our Gun barrels,going in,in the morning & going out at night. The thing is,there is proof, because we have shipmates with service connected disabilities with proving boots on ground from the 1972 cruise.Also check out the ship's log.We went in Hue harbor, & in to Qui Nohn Harbor. It's on the log. Qui Nohn Harbor was to drop off Com Des Ron 33. Any body from that era & remembers let know. Aloha Kimo

First_Name: Norman
Last_Name: Tillman
Email: gerlsharo@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Time: 17:20:46

Message

Looking for Chief Staggs BT. 1962-1965

First_Name: Norman
Last_Name: Tillman
Email: gerlsharo@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Time: 17:25:10

Message

I was not listed as a crew member. 1962-1965. E5 BT.

First_Name: jack
Last_Name: mancini
Email: jmancini@comcast.net16
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2015
Time: 18:36:18

Message

.I was on the. Strauss from 1/03/77 untill 1/14/79 i .worked in #2 engine room best time in my life i was 18yrs old living in pearl harbor on a ship in dry .dock.then went on a west pac spent many .nights on hotel street.anyone outthere on the ship at the same time?..

First_Name: jack
Last_Name: mancini
Email: jmancini@comcast.net16
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2015
Time: 18:36:19

Message

.I was on the. Strauss from 1/03/77 untill 1/14/79 i .worked in #2 engine room best time in my life i was 18yrs old living in pearl harbor on a ship in dry .dock.then went on a west pac spent many .nights on hotel street.anyone outthere on the ship at the same time?..

First_Name: jack
Last_Name: mancini
Email: jmancini@comcast.net...
Date: Monday, August 24, 2015
Time: 10:39:30

Message

.my email address was posted wrong this ic my email jmancini52@comcast.net

First_Name: jack
Last_Name: mancini
Email: jmancini@comcast.net...
Date: Monday, August 24, 2015
Time: 10:39:31

Message

.my email address was posted wrong this ic my email jmancini52@comcast.net

First_Name: Ann
Last_Name: Marks
Email: marxx_a@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2015
Time: 00:15:48

Message

Hello. I have not served so need some assistance finding information on the Joseph Strauss. I would like to know what destroyer squadron the Joseph Strauss was assigned to. I hope to find a squadron patch for a shadow box I'm putting to- gether for my brother. I looked for a ship patch, too, but all I find have misprinted mottos. Also needed is some clarification about the awards. I know his records would probably include this but he'd say, "Don't bother." (I know from experience with my father-in-law who served during WWII and Korea, he loved the collection after we gave it to him, but said, "Don't bother", beforehand.) Years served were '68 to '72 so I know he did not receive the Joint Meritorious Unit ribbon (only reto. to '79) but I have questions about the other two unit ribbons. Also, are Operations awarded service stars as Campaigns were during WWII? I'd appreciate any help offered with my questions.

First_Name: Esther
Last_Name: Searcy
Email: e.searcy@comcast.net
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2015
Time: 00:29:06

Message

Would like to hear from any shipmates who remember Daniel Searcy who passed away suddenly on July 3, 2015 as I cannot find current information on a few or a list on this site to see if I can find them by name

First_Name: Lorne
Last_Name: Caddick
Email: lcaddick1@iclould.com
Date: Saturday, October 03, 2015
Time: 00:16:26

Message

Any of my friends out there?

First_Name: Robin (Mac)
Last_Name: McCall
Email: rmccall1@tulane.edu
Date: Thursday, December 03, 2015
Time: 16:50:13

Message

Hello to all my former shipmates. GM2 McCall here. I served aboard the "Smokin' Joe" from '82 to'87. I worked on the ASROC launcher, was the ship's swimmer/diver, as well as a Duty MAA. I'm FaceBook friends with GM Lewis Burke, ST Rob Min, and TM Larry Meza. Would love to hear from any shipmates from my time. R/ Mac

First_Name: David
Last_Name: jackson
Email: Davidjacksonotr.gmail.com
Date: Sunday, February 14, 2016
Time: 20:40:55

Message

1978 to 80 best crew ever,i was a boot camp and a wild dummy only 18 eny way to stan rick jim king whitey butcher widner polz sticka mingas gall kenny davis markem upchurch Murphy connel mockley horseface roger ramjet jeff schnor and the rest ,WHAT UP hope all of you are well .Ps bob pass away feb 19 2010 or as we call him stan rip

First_Name: richard
Last_Name: garneau
Email: rgssly@aol.com
Date: Thursday, February 18, 2016
Time: 11:12:00

Message

Dave Jackson email at the address above

First_Name: richard
Last_Name: garneau
Email: rgssly@aol.com
Date: Thursday, February 18, 2016
Time: 11:18:59

Message

dave send me your email ,it rick .we owned the chevy together we were in main control #1 engine room

First_Name: Leonard Youngblood s
Last_Name: Stevenson
Email: Lsteve2973@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, February 18, 2016
Time: 23:59:20

Message

Hello my J Strauss family just wanted to share my new email address which is Lsteve2973@gmail.com . My leoanrd@stargtr.net has been closed out

First_Name: richard
Last_Name: garneau
Email: rgssly@aol.com
Date: Monday, February 22, 2016
Time: 09:42:02

Message

does anybody know the where about's of jim king or jeff schnoor,if so let me know

First_Name: Daniel
Last_Name: Welker
Email: welkdani@isu.edu.com
Date: Sunday, March 20, 2016
Time: 09:49:54

Message

Hello to my old shipmates I was stationed on the Smoking Joe for 5 Years in the Forward Fire Room..

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Batz
Email: mbatz99487@aol.com
Date: Sunday, March 20, 2016
Time: 14:23:47

Message

Shipmates, I have finally been able to locate the website for J.Strauss. I served onboard from 75-78 in OC Division I was a RM3 and RM2 when I left. Is any of the OC guys members of the association. If so I would like for them to drop me an email.

First_Name: Steven "Andy"
Last_Name: Anderson EM3
Email: sjnanders@centurylink.net
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2016
Time: 20:21:32

Message

1973 - 1974. Any of you live in the Plymouth / Maple Grove area of Minnesota? Just moving here.

First_Name: Marcia
Last_Name: Blain
Email: Blain.marcia@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2016
Time: 13:55:06

Message

I served in the Army between 1972 and 1975 In Augsburg Germany. I have received confusing reports of whether I receive money or not during that time. Can you help me?

First_Name: Roger
Last_Name: Foote
Email: rwfoote0@att.net
Date: Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Time: 22:35:37

Message

I was aboard the Strauss during the 1972 WestPac cruise. Can you tell me what awards the ship received during that cruise? Thank you.

First_Name: richard
Last_Name: garneau
Email: rgssly@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Time: 16:17:53

Message

does anybody know where I can get a picture of the strauss.if so let me know

First_Name: william r
Last_Name: pickeren
Email: williamp612@aol.com
Date: Saturday, July 09, 2016
Time: 19:46:24

Message

my dad William peter pickeren was on there 70 cook mite have pictures 612 275 7050

First_Name: Tammy
Last_Name: Bennett
Email: tbennet1@nycap.rr.com
Date: Friday, August 19, 2016
Time: 05:26:22

Message

I am the wife of a vet who proudly served on the Strauss 71-75. Our son was born with a heart defect (Bicuspid Aortic Valve) 35 years ago. This condition is normally hereditary, however, there is NO one else related to either myself or my husband with anything like this. Our son is now 35 and 6 weeks ago needed to have an Aortic Valve Replacement, which had complications and he also now needs a pacemaker. We have read how my husbands exposure to Agent Orange may have caused this. Which is what has lead me to this Message Board. Are we the only ones whose children have health issues? Since I statred to read about this, I am shocked to see what may have happened to our children! Please send me an email if you have the time about your children. I pray they are all healthy!

First_Name: Rhonda
Last_Name: Sullivan
Email: rhonda@maysvilleky.net
Date: Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Time: 17:31:28

Message

Past crewmembers

First_Name: Rhonda
Last_Name: Sullivan
Email: rhonda@maysvilleky.net
Date: Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Time: 17:31:50

Message

Past crewmembers

First_Name: Bruce ( Andy )
Last_Name: Anderson
Email: brucea@midwestinfo.net
Date: Wednesday, December 07, 2016
Time: 20:30:26

Message

Let us remember our fellow sailors who died in Pearl Harbor 75 years ago today !! I always get teary eyed when I see the Arizona .... Keep their families in you prayers Gods speed with you all.. Andy 78-82

First_Name: Martina
Last_Name: Villarreal
Email: mvilla2426@gmail.com
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Time: 10:20:50

Message

Hello, My father was Ramiro Villarreal. He was on the USS Joseph Strauss from 1969-1970. He was in the boiler room and also did some boxing. He died in September of 2016.

First_Name: Jeff
Last_Name: Willhite
Email: rolltidewmc@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, January 05, 2017
Time: 13:33:23

Message

I was on the 72 west pack, does anyone remember when we went dead in the water by the incoming rounds? I cannot recall what month, any help would be greatly appreciated. GMG

First_Name: don
Last_Name: wallace
Email: chulai2@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, January 09, 2017
Time: 02:13:07

Message

Alias Wally served Oct 63 til Mar 68 OI Div RD2 noted Bill Pratt but few others in that time frame would like to hear from others be well DON

First_Name: art
Last_Name: arty
Email: a@s.ru
Date: Monday, January 09, 2017
Time: 02:31:40

Message

hi

First_Name: JOHN
Last_Name: HIGGINS
Email: huggyray1@comcast.net
Date: Monday, March 06, 2017
Time: 19:32:37

Message

Anyone know anything about where bouts of SN Forrest Lyle Kirk crew of 65-67. Last I heard he was in the brig at Great Lakes. He was my steaming pardner when we were homeported in Japan the shifted to Pearl in 67' I believe.

First_Name: Edith
Last_Name: Bartlett
Email: redsse@aol.com
Date: Monday, June 19, 2017
Time: 11:40:56

Message

I have a copy of Westpac '82 that I would like to send to someone. Could you please send me an address and name. Bob Bartlett was CO in 82. Thanks so much, Edie

First_Name: Steven "Andy"
Last_Name: Anderson, EM3
Email: sjnanders@centurylink.net
Date: Saturday, July 29, 2017
Time: 12:36:53

Message

I've been follow the Blue Water Navy Awareness group as they push for agent orange benefits for Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans. In a recent post of ships operating in the waters of Vietnam covered by the agent orange act, the list did not indicate that the Strauss operated in the waters of Vietnam during the 73 cruise. If I recall correctly, we did. How do I find out about this. Would the deck logs for the 73 cruise confirm my belief?

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Southard
Email: 63splitray@gmail.com
Date: Monday, August 07, 2017
Time: 15:25:25

Message

First time posting. Noticed a lot of questions regarding circumstances from 1972-1975. Maybe I can fill in some blanks. "Chief Barth" was the IC Chief from 73'-75'. Forced me into lead IC as a E-3 when Shober, Young, and Asselin left. Then IC-2 Mike Ferderer showed up in 74' to take lead (Thank Heavens).

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Southard
Email: 63splitray@gmail.com
Date: Monday, August 07, 2017
Time: 15:29:23

Message

First time posting. Noticed a lot of questions regarding circumstances from 1972-1975. Maybe I can fill in some blanks. "Chief Barth" was the IC Chief from 73'-75'. Forced me into lead IC as a E-3 when Shober, Young, and Asselin left. Then IC-2 Mike Ferderer showed up in 74' to take lead (Thank Heavens).

First_Name: Ted
Last_Name: Denning
Email: theo2246@msn.com
Date: Friday, August 25, 2017
Time: 22:48:19

Message

My brother(EMFN/3 David Stevens) and I were aboard smoking Joe at the same time. He reported aboard ahead of me. I was first assigned to 1st div, but later became an Rm striker. BkIII re-enlisted me. Unfortunately my brother passed away today in Seattle Wa. after a prolonged battle with leukemia. I know some of the guys that were on the Joe during our time(64-66) for me and longer for him tried to contact him at different times. Some of you may remember him, fondly I hope. I know he thought well of all of you, my last gift to him was a Joe Strauss ball cap. I wish all of you fair winds and following seas. ted

First_Name: Don
Last_Name: Wright
Email: Dontw1@charter.net
Date: Thursday, September 28, 2017
Time: 19:53:53

Message

Hi everyone. Just found this site. Pretty neat. I was a FTM2. I was on board Jan 82 - Dec 84. I just wanted to say Hi.

First_Name: Steve
Last_Name: Stokes
Email: Stevenavydiver@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, September 28, 2017
Time: 21:47:28

Message

I was an MM on the Strauss in ER #2 from 79-82. I'd love to hear from others. I became good friends with many including several sonar techs that I'd like to hear from. We have a decent Strauss group on Facebook but are missing many

First_Name: Gary
Last_Name: Taylor
Email: LEXIEKAY@ATT.NET
Date: Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Time: 05:56:55

Message

Bill Fry. this Gary Taylor MM served 82-85. drop me a line

First_Name: Donald
Last_Name: Wright
Email: Dontw@charter.net
Date: Sunday, October 15, 2017
Time: 21:43:23

Message

Jim sabo and steve williams..how are you?

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: duane@danescountry.com
Date: Friday, November 17, 2017
Time: 09:45:37

Message

Was aboard 69-72, BM3. Have DVD of West Pack's 69-72 Cruise books plus personal pictures on Hawaii and West Packs. Had a person who wanted a DVD email me at danes@danescountry.com but I hit the wrong key and deleted it. Anyone wanting a DVD email me at duane@danescountry.com or danes@danescountry.com. I need $8 to cover cost of disc and case. Any one Needing help with Agent Orange for when we were in Da-Nang Harbor, might be able to help. Have pictures of some of us on shore in 72. Jim Rock and

First_Name: Duane
Last_Name: Briggs
Email: duane@danescountry.com
Date: Friday, November 17, 2017
Time: 09:47:12

Message

Was aboard 69-72, BM3. Have DVD of West Pack's 69-72 Cruise books plus personal pictures on Hawaii and West Packs. Had a person who wanted a DVD email me at danes@danescountry.com but I hit the wrong key and deleted it. Anyone wanting a DVD email me at duane@danescountry.com or danes@danescountry.com. I need $8 to cover cost of disc and case. Any one Needing help with Agent Orange for when we were in Da-Nang Harbor, might be able to help. Have pictures of some of us on shore in 72. Jim Rock and I both get Disability payment

First_Name: HaywoodoraroFL
Last_Name: HaywoodoraroFL
Email: Karius28@hayastana.com
Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Time: 18:44:05

Message

Îäíèì èç ñàìûõ ïîïóëÿðíûõ âèäîâ îáëèöîâêè ïîëà ÿâëÿåòñÿ ïëèòêà íàïîëüíàÿ. Àññîðòèìåíò ýòèõ ìàòåðèàëîâ äîâîëüíî øèðîê è ìíîãîîáðàçåí, ïîýòîìó âûáðàòü ïëèòêó íàïîëüíóþ ñòàíîâèòñÿ âñå òðóäíåå, èç-çà áîãàòñòâà âûáîðà.  íàñòîÿùåå âðåìÿ â ìàãàçèíå ìîæíî âñòðåòèòü îò 15 íàèìåíîâàíèé ïëèòêè, ðàçëè÷íîé ïî äèàìåòðó è ôîðìå, ïîäðîáíåå îá ýòîì ÷èòàéòå íà ñàéòå <a href=http://teletap.org>teletap.org</a>

First_Name: Alex (kimo)
Last_Name: Demello
Email: ademellojr@hotmail.com
Date: Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Time: 04:19:35

Message

Jeff Wilhite - contact me ademellojr@hotmail.com if you need that info. you asked for back in July 2017. Aloha Duane Briggs . I saw your post. Hope all is well .

First_Name: Alex (kimo)
Last_Name: Demello
Email: ademellojr@hotmail.com
Date: Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Time: 04:28:07

Message

correcting my post-- Jeff Willhite , you posted on Jan. 5 , 2017.

First_Name: John
Last_Name: Langdell
Email: johnlangdell@rushmore.com
Date: Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Time: 17:47:06

Message

I ordered a ball cap in September, still haven't received it? Emails to Webmaster, to whom I paypalled the funds go unanswered? Does anyone know what might be going on?

First_Name: Gary
Last_Name: Kester
Email: gary@kesterlawgroup.com
Date: Friday, December 01, 2017
Time: 12:38:48

Message

Kester Law Group thanks all of you for your service. www.kesterlawgroup.com

First_Name: Sherman
Last_Name: Mosley
Email: slmosley@hotmail.com
Date: Tuesday, January 09, 2018
Time: 21:16:47

Message

Is there a link yet to sign up for the 2018 reunion in Annapolis reunion?

First_Name: Herbert
Last_Name: Tucker
Email: tucksplace1@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, April 04, 2018
Time: 20:12:19

Message

Does anyone have a copy of the letter written by President Reagan to the Officers and crew of the U.S.S. Joseph Strauss concerning Operation Praying Mantis on April 18, 1988 in the Persian Gulf. I was an FC3 onboard from 1984-1989. I have misplaced my copy. It means more to me than my Honorable Discharge. I was there and remember the 3 Silkworm missiles fired at us, the Harpoon and several SM1 Missiles we fired. I do have an original coffee cup, two hats and one belt buckle from the ship. Please help. Does anyone remember this letter?

First_Name: Edith
Last_Name: Bartlett
Email: redsse@aol.com
Date: Sunday, April 08, 2018
Time: 11:58:29

Message

I have a large painting of the Strauss done by Ed Bieda in 1982. I was wondering if anyone would like it or could you use it at the reunion this year (2018).

First_Name: Rhonda
Last_Name: Sullivan
Email: Rhondasullivan6@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, April 15, 2018
Time: 13:23:01

Message

Reunion and shipmates

First_Name: Rhonda
Last_Name: Sullivan
Email: Rhondasullivan6@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, April 15, 2018
Time: 13:23:13

Message

Reunion and shipmates

First_Name: Rhonda
Last_Name: Sullivan
Email: Rhondasullivan6@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, April 29, 2018
Time: 13:37:21

Message

Current and past messages

First_Name: Rhonda
Last_Name: Sullivan
Email: Rhondasullivan6@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, April 29, 2018
Time: 14:06:47

Message

Current and past messages

First_Name: William "Bill"
Last_Name: Sundstrom
Email: 47390rws@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Time: 13:25:16

Message

Was in the precom at Newport from Dec 62 and onboard the Strauss from March 63 to Jan 1965. Looking for anyone from Fox division who may be going to the reunion in Baltimore 2018. Give me a holler

First_Name: Tom
Last_Name: Bacon
Email: iamsearching2@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, July 22, 2018
Time: 12:28:53

Message

I have two DDG 16 cruisebooks, a 68-69 and a 1970 for sale on eBay. Both books in excellent shape!!

First_Name: Randall
Last_Name: Ennis
Email: rjmastersllc@gmail.com
Date: Monday, August 13, 2018
Time: 15:45:09

Message

Hello. My Dad was on the Strauss 1973-1975. He needs something to prove that to the VA. A tree fell on his house and ruined a bunch of papers. Thanks for any reccomendations. It says crew logs from 1973 are still classified but I would be willing to join group and order when available. Thanks, Randy Ennis II 985-966-8895

First_Name: bill
Last_Name: millard
Email: WMILLARD@SARATOGACOUNTYNY.GOV
Date: Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Time: 11:39:39

Message

just wanted to send a message to all my buddies that were on board the ship from 1977-1979. i was a disbursing clerk. wish i could back to those days.

First_Name: Timothy
Last_Name: Caldwell
Email: tim64caldwell@gmail.com
Date: Sunday, September 16, 2018
Time: 19:15:00

Message

Looking for OPS dept. personnel 83-88 OS3 Caldwell OUT...

First_Name: Don
Last_Name: OHM
Email: pastorohm@sbcglobal.net
Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Time: 19:14:33

Message

hello to any ship mates who served with me 67-68 HM3 Ohm

First_Name: Don
Last_Name: OHM
Email: pastorohm@sbcglobal.net
Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Time: 19:18:54

Message

hello to any ship mates who served with me 67-68 HM3 Ohm

First_Name: Jeffrey
Last_Name: Schaefer
Email: gunnerjschaeferusn@gmail.com
Date: Friday, December 14, 2018
Time: 15:49:53

Message

Awards are wrong what about the harpoon she shot in praying mantis

First_Name: Jim
Last_Name: Enright
Email: jhe20301@gmail.com
Date: Saturday, April 27, 2019
Time: 20:07:03

Message

Timothy Caldwell, I remember you and those days in Waikiki. The shipmates you listed plus some others, Domingo Garcia, Buster Crabb, Bill Owens, Carmen, Figueroa, Sipple, Rob Workman and Scott Paben. I see some names of others when I first arrive to the "Smokin Joe", Steve Bowker and Kelly Whitacre. Had some fun times!

First_Name: Tim
Last_Name: Dittrick
Email: jiptrak2@hawaii.rr.com
Date: Sunday, August 18, 2019
Time: 19:58:48

Message

Looking for Jim Hansen (ETR2) or Bill Leslie (RM3) from Tim Dittrick, former RM3 1971 to 1972. Was at the Strauss decommissioning at Pearl, now I'm retired from the Shipyard. Give a shout when you can!

First_Name: Bruce
Last_Name: Phelps
Email: Phelpski@frontiernet.net
Date: Thursday, October 31, 2019
Time: 16:06:14

Message

Howdee shipmates this is only a test, if it passes will update,(hope this meets Rays guide lines. see ya soon Bruce

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Martin
Email: michaeltmartin58@gmail.com
Date: Saturday, January 11, 2020
Time: 16:12:26

Message

Was an Operations Specialist on board the smokin joe from 79-82. Just found my cruise books 80&82. Brought back so many forgotten memories. Made it to E-5 in 3 yrs. And back down to E-3 in 20 minutes. Young, dumb, and overachiever on liberty. LOL. The refugees we rescued have never left my mind.

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Martin
Email: michaeltmartin58@gmail.com
Date: Saturday, January 11, 2020
Time: 17:51:32

Message

After reading posted messages for the last few hours I hope I can answer a few questions: From September 14th to 24th 1980, the Smokin Joe embarked on 'Operation Dakota Run'. Consisting of entering the Sea of Okhotsk.(Considered by the USSR as their territorial waters.) I remember how stressful that 10 days were. Russian small boats making runs at us. We were a part of Desron 25. At the time I was on board the U.S.S. Joseph Strauss DDG 16, Smokin Joe, was the fastest ship in Pearl Harbor. Still remember LTCDR Flood. Hong Kong R.I.P.

First_Name: Michael
Last_Name: Martin
Email: michaeltmartin58@gmail.com
Date: Saturday, January 11, 2020
Time: 17:51:57

Message

After reading posted messages for the last few hours I hope I can answer a few questions: From September 14th to 24th 1980, the Smokin Joe embarked on 'Operation Dakota Run'. Consisting of entering the Sea of Okhotsk.(Considered by the USSR as their territorial waters.) I remember how stressful that 10 days were. Russian small boats making runs at us. We were a part of Desron 25. At the time I was on board the U.S.S. Joseph Strauss DDG 16, Smokin Joe, was the fastest ship in Pearl Harbor. Still remember LTCDR Flood. Hong Kong R.I.P.

First_Name: Ken
Last_Name: Osman
Email: vmpko@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2020
Time: 15:10:13

Message

To gunner Mac what a trip to here the name boats pappy Collins I was an rm on the 73 cruise Pappy told me stories of him an his brother in delta. And this is for all who served on the Strauss I guess I’m the fist to put in a claim to the va on the blue water sailors have not got a decision yet but at least they’re taking claims hope this might help someone. Ken

First_Name: Chuck
Last_Name: Broward
Email: chuck_broward@comcast.net
Date: Monday, March 09, 2020
Time: 10:23:51

Message

This is a test