From the Wardroom...

Transcription

1 Volume 10, Number 10 October 2014 Submarine Force Commemorates 4,000th Strategic Deterrent Patrol - Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic and Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, in conjunction with Commander, U.S. Strategic Command, commemorated the Submarine Force s 4,000th strategic deterrent patrol, Sept. 19, by conducting dual ceremonies in Bangor, Washington and Kings Bay, Georgia. The first fleet ballistic-missile submarine USS George Washington (SSBN 598) was commissioned Dec. 30, 1959, and completed the inaugural deterrent patrol in January Since then, 59 SSBNs have been commissioned in the last 50-plus years. Having patrolled the waters worldwide, the ship has established itself as the most survivable, critical, and efficient element of our U.S. national security and the security of U.S. allies and partners. October Meeting Installation Luncheon will be held at the American Legion Post 5646 Corporate Avenue Cypress, CA The 18 October meeting is dedicated to the installation of new base officers. Base Commander Dave Vanderveen Vice Commander Jack Mahan Secretary Dennis Walsh Treasurer Berry Yolken Chief of the Boat Dennis Bott Base Directors Sam Higa Mike Swanson George Walrath Dual Ceremonies, Bangor and Kings Bay 9/19 The ballistic missile Submarine Force and the capability it offers is as important and relevant in today s uncertain world as it was when the first deterrent patrols were conducted more than five decades ago, said Adm. Cecil D. Haney, Commander, U.S. Strategic Command. Commemorating the 4,000th patrol allows us to honor not only the submariners who have achieved this milestone, but also to pay homage to the men and women of our strategic forces who are on watch every day providing our nation with a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent against those who might think to do us harm. Along with strategic bombers and the intercontinental ballistic missiles, the SSBNs make up the third element of the United States triad of nuclear deterrence. SSBNs are critical, stabilizing and efficient elements of U.S. nuclear deterrence and reassurance, and with their sea-based missile launch capability makes them the most survivable asset. They carry the majority of deployed U.S. nuclear warheads allowing them to stabilize deterrent Continued on Page 9 THE PERISCOPE October

2 From the Wardroom... Chuck Senior, Base Commander BASE COMMANDER Chuck Senior 1278 Sepulveda Street San Pedro, CA X.O. VICE COMMANDER Rob Fleming Magnolia St., Spc 25 Westminster, CA OPS SECRETARY Phil Jaskoviak 7172 Ridge Glen Drive #105 Huntington Beach, CA WEPS TREASURER Dave Vanderveen 6061 Broadstone Circle Huntington Beach, CA CHIEF OF THE BOAT Dennis Bott 202 Berth Slip 7 Wilmington CA MEMORIAL DIRECTOR Edward A. Barwick 5408 Lanai Street Long Beach, CA edsubvet@gmail.com IMMEDIATE PAST COMMANDER Richard McPherson Shipmates and Ladies, According to MWR the Building 6 renovation work has been completed, but the front entryway must be redone and made ADA compliant before they can release the building back to us. There is no completion date as yet but we anticipate returning home for our November meeting. The base election concluded with 30 members voting unanimously to approve the presented slate of candidates. Our new leaders are: Dave Vanderveen, Commander; Jack Mahan, Vice Commander; Dennis Walsh, Secretary; Berry Yolken, Treasurer; and Directors Sam Higa, Mike Swanson, and George Walrath. Sam will fill the one-year vacancy created by Dennis being elected Secretary. Congratulations to all! Thank you for the support you have given me in my various board positions over the past seven years, and especially the last two years as Base Commander. It has been a very rewarding and fun experience one that I recommend to anyone. I ve been overpaid and underworked and I ve enjoyed every minute of it! Thank you for the privilege. Fraternally, Chuck Senior Commander Los Angeles-Pasadena Base United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. NEWSLETTER EDITOR Rob Fleming Magnolia St., Spc 25 Westminster, CA robflem@yahoo.com THE PERISCOPE October

3 USSVI LA/Pasadena Base General Meeting Minutes September 20, 2014 This month s meeting was held at the American Legion Hall, Post 716, in Los Alamitos as Building 6 is in the final stages of renovation. Base Commander Chuck Senior called the USSVI LA/Pasadena Base General meeting to order at Twenty-four members and six guests attended our August 16, 2014 meeting. Members and guests saluted the flag and recited the Pledge of Allegiance led by Chief of the Boat Dennis Bott. Dennis also delivered the invocation prayer followed by a moment of silence for all our departed shipmates and lost crewmen on eternal patrol. Members were called to chow which on a first come first serve basis which sent everyone running. This month s 50/50 drawing winners where Sam Higa, who donated his winnings ½ to the Memorial Fund and ½ to the Booster Club, and Jack Mahan, who donated his winnings to the Memorial fund. Thank you both for supporting our Base. Paul Riggs introduced his shipmates from the Segundo: Retired Lt. Cdr. Bob Douglas, former CO of the Segundo and our guest speaker, Al Howard IC2(SS) and Richard Howard MM1 USS Long Beach DGN-9. Bill Moak introduce a couple of classmates from his high school reunion: Tom McVay QM2(SS) USS Pickerel SS- 525 Cuttlefish Base, Redding, CA and Steve Stranger EN2(SS) USS Blackfin SS-322, Perch Base, Phoenix, AZ. We also had one lonesome traveler who had to find a local base of Sub Vets to hang out with and recharge his batteries, Donny Nield FTSC(SS) USS Tunny SSG-282 Mid-Atlantic Base, Delaware. Berry Yolken introduced a prospective new member, retired Captain Dan Ferrari. Welcome to all our new shipmates. Hal Silverman reminded everyone that the October meeting is the day for our annual installation luncheon. The luncheon will be in the newly renovated building 6 at NWS. Sign up with Dennis Walsh, Dave Vanderveen or look for the registration that is within this issue of the Periscope. Hal also reminded everyone that t-shirts were still only $15 and would be available at the installation luncheon. Our LA-Pasadena Base Nominating Committee Chairman Hal Silverman announced the results of our recent election. Hal reported that 30 ballots were submitted and announced the results as follows: Base Commander Dave Vanderveen Vice Commander Jack Mahan Secretary Dennis Walsh Treasurer Berry Yolken Chief of the Boat - Dennis Bott Base Directors Continued on Page 6 Bagdasarian, Armen Barwick, Ed Bell, Bob Bott, Dennis Burnett, James Conboy, Bob Dorn, Ken Ferrari, Dan Fleming, Bach Fleming, Rob Hedges, Diana Higa, Sam Mahan, Jack Maynard, Mark Moak, Bill Senior, Chuck Senior, Marilyn Silverman, Hal Staggs, Harold Swanson, Mike Terry, Carl Vanderveen, David Walrath, George Walrath, Valerie September 20, 2014 Sailing List Walsh, Dennis Wilson, Art Yolken, Berry Visitors Guest Speaker: Douglas, Bob, LCDR, CO USS Segundo (SS-398) Howard, Al, ICS(SS), USS Segundo (SS-398) Howard, Richard, MM1, USS Long Beach (CGN-9) McVay, Tom, QM2(SS), USS Pickeral (SS-525), Cuttlefish Base, Redding Nield, Denny, FTSC(SS), USS Tunny (SSG-282), Mid- Atlantic Base, Delaware Stranger, Steve, EN2(SS), USS Blackfin (SS-322), Perch Base, Phoenix LCDR Bob Douglas, USN (Retired), sits second from right in a blue shirt. Others are guests of Bill Moak and others who attended for the express purpose of hearing Bob s remarks about his submarine servce and more. (See Dennis Walsh s general meeting minutes for more details.) THE PERISCOPE October

4 October Meeting PLEASE NOTE LOCATION CHANGE: Meeting is at the American Legion Post, 5646 Corporate Avenue, Cypress, CA. (See attached map) Date: Saturday, October 18, 2014 Location: AL Post, 5646 Corporate Avenue, Cypress, CA Time: 1100 E-Board Mtg. and Social Hour 1200 Buffet Lunch General Meeting (Installation of New Officers) Treasurer s Report As of October 11, 2014 our account balances are: Checking: $ 14, Savings: 4, Total: $19, Revenue for the month was $663.10, and expens was $ Accounts have been reconciled with the bank statements, and all supplier accounts are paid up-to-date. Respectfully submitted, Dave Vanderveen, Treasurer LA-Pasadena Base/USSVI Prospective Member LA-Pasadena Base/USSVI Please encourage a prospective member to join the Los Angeles Pasadena Base. Capt. Dan Ferrari, USN (Retired) Capt. Ferrari was introduced by Berry Yolken at our September monthly meeting. Welcome aboard, Dan. Ed and Judy Arnold Mike Cailor * Bob Conboy Ken Dorn Bach Fleming Rob Fleming Jack Herron Sam Higa * Michael Kish * Kenneth Loveless Jack Mahan* Jack Mel Mahan Mares * Mark Mel Maynard Mares * * Mark Bill Maynard Moak * Chuck Bill Moak Senior Mike Swanson * Dave Dave Vanderveen Varveen George Walrath* * Dennis Walsh* Berry Yolken Yoken * * Flower Fund Contributors THE PERISCOPE October

5 U.S. Navy Issues Warnings On Russia, China s Submarine Fleets - Military.com The Navy s top Atlantic Submarine Force commander said Thursday that Russia and China s ballistic missile submarine development will impact how the U.S. deploys its fleet. Navy Vice Adm. Michael Connor said global threats today are far more numerous and dispersed compared to the Cold War when the U.S. focused solely on Russia. Since the end of the Cold War, the U.S. has treated Russia more like a partner. However, those goodwill feelings have changed since Russia has shown aggression in its recent conflict with Ukraine and instituted some tactics the U.S. hasn t seen since the Cold War. Considering Russia s significant nuclear arsenal, it has drawn the attention of the Navy s nuclear submarine leaders. The Soviet Union devolved into Russia but they kept their nuclear capabilities. They are now regrowing those capabilities and others. As they re-grow, we find that modern Russia appears to have some aspirations both territory-wise and influence-wise that are reminiscent of the way they behaved when we had the Soviet Union, Connor said. Last week, Russia broadcast its intent to upgrade its submarine fleet when Russian officials released photos of two Akula IIclass nuclear submarines being ferried to a shipyard to receive modernization upgrades. Along with Russia, the U.S. Navy has taken a closer look at China s submarine fleet warning that its advancement means the Chinese have a global strike capability, Connor said. The world has become multi-polar and we have competition for global influence and power from a rising China which is also very much on our mind. The Chinese have had ballistic missile submarines in some form for a while. Their pace has Chinese Type 094 Jin-class Missile Submarine accelerated and they have several nuclear ballistic missile submarines and are continuing to build more, Connor said. In February, the Office of Naval Intelligence issued an assessment on the Chinese navy as part of testimony to the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review. ONI leaders found that China s navy has evolved from a littoral force to one that is capable of meeting a wide range of missions to include being increasingly capable of striking targets hundreds of miles from the Chinese mainland. In particular, ONI raised concerns about China s fast-growing submarine force, to include the Jinclass ballistic nuclear submarines, which will likely commence deterrent patrols in 2014, according to the report. The expected operational deployment of the Jin SSBN would mark China s first credible at-sea-second-strike nuclear capability, the report states. The submarine would fire the JL-2 submarine-launched ballistic missile, which has a range of 4,000 nautical miles and would enable the Jin to strike Hawaii, Alaska and possibly western portions of CONUS [continental United States] from East Asian waters, ONI assessed. The report says the Chinese currently have five nuclear attack submarines, four nuclear ballistic missile submarines and 53 diesel attack submarines. Overall, China s fleet of submarines has quickly increased in offensive weapons technology over the last 10 years. A decade ago, only a few Chinese submarines could fire modern antiship cruise missiles. Now, more than half of the conventional attack submarines are configured to fire anti-ship cruise missiles, or ASCMs, the report states. The type-095 guided missile attack submarine, which China Continued on Page 6 THE PERISCOPE October

6 USSVI LA/Pasadena Base General Meeting Minutes September 20, 2014 U.S. Navy Issues Warnings On Russia, China s Submarine Fleets - Military.com - continued Continued from Page 3 Sam Higa Mike Swanson George Walrath Congratulations were extended to all those elected members and we thank the outgoing officers for their years of service: Base Commander - Chuck Senior, Vice Commander - Rob Fleming, Secretary - Phil Jaskoviak, and Directors Bill Moak and Berry Yolken. In addition Berry Yolken volunteered to continue as the Base Storekeeper. A special thanks to Berry for an outstanding job. Keep up the good work. Base Commander Chuck Senior presented Ken Dorn with a certificate of appreciation or his donation to the Memorial Flower Fund. Thank you Ken. Ken mentioned that he had recently visited the WWII memorial in New Orleans, LA. During his visit a reenactment was performed by the guests. Each was assigned a position and given a card with a WWII Veteran s name; Ken drew Jessie Da Silva s name. Jesse was a member of LA/Pasadena Base and the L.A. Area Chapter, U.S. Submarine Veterans WWII. He was also a past National President of the WWII organization. Small world. Lt. Cdr. Bob Douglas, former CO of the USS Segundo SS-398, gave an in depth presentation of the only Submarine to ever get underway with sail and wind propulsion, the USS R-14 in He also described one of the exploits of the USS Sea Leopard SS-483 in Cuba. Very interesting but you know there was much more. A clean sweep down fore and aft was piped in by the COB. At 1540 hours a motion was made by the general membership to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded and approved. Fraternally, Dennis Walsh Secretary, LA/Pasadena Base USSVI Continued from Page 5 will likely construct over the next decade, may be equipped with a land-attack capability, the assessment explains. This could enable Chinese submarines with an enhanced ability to strike U.S. bases throughout the region, the report adds. Chinese Type 094 Jin-class Submarine Overall, Russia and China are firmly committed to have an undersea nuclear deterrent capability with a strong naval component, Connor added. We want to resolve minor conflict before they become major conflicts, he explained. Connor made his remarks about Russian and China while commemorating the 4,000th strategic deterrence ballistic missile submarine patrol, explaining that undersea nuclear deterrence had its origins in the 1960s. Back then, the U.S. needed 41 submarines. The U.S. Navy s fleet has since shrunk to 14 nuclear armed submarines based in Bangor, Washington, or Kings Bay, Georgia. The U.S. Navy plans to begin construction of a newgeneration of Ohio-class, nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarines by 2021 called the Ohio Replacement program, Connor added. Russian Borei-class Submarine THE PERISCOPE October

7 A Boatsailor s Angel by Bob Dex Armstrong Her name is Joy She is the 'Tigerflower' of a previous tale in this endless, mindless linkage of nonsense. She married the other guy Smart move on her part, unbelievable luck on his part. Joy is the ideal of gentle womanhood. God blessed her with a radiant smile that lights up a room and instantly puts you at ease. She is happily married to a wonderful fellow who doesn't mind her staying in touch with an idiot sandbox pal of yesteryear And she reads this stupidity on the installment plan. Joy and her family regularly took in a stray dog boatsailor who turned up on her doorstep smelling like three weeks on the snorkel and hauling a bag of laundry that should have been burned or mailed to a sewage processing plant. She fed this undeserving bum and provided a couch or cleen sheets. She never understood what clean sheets and a hot shower meant to a single after battery rat. I know that God has a designated place where the girls who took in orphans from the smoke boat service, fed them home cooking Let them run up their hot water bills and sleep in real 'no bunk chains' beds. When you arrive in Heaven That is if God doesn't hold smoke boat service against us If we get there, Joy will be the beautiful angel parked on the fluffiest cloud. First loves endure The ones forged in the delightful innocence of youth The ones where the girls were incased in multiple laminations of petticoats, smelled like flower gardens and wore that 'get the stuff all over you' bright red lipstick. You have your vision of beauty of that period and I have Tigerflower. I wouldn't trade.she was the first of what I consider to be close friends, to welcome my Norwegian bride to this country That alone put me in her eternal debt. I think she has long forgiven a twenty-year old idiot who stood an eight-hour maneuvering watch after a northern run and hitch-hiked through the night to attend her wedding. The unsuspecting kid who got loaded at the reception Got knee-walking, commode-hugging blasted Missed the tossed garter and called for her panties. Then, had to sober up enough to thumb rides back To make underway quarters and load for sea Monday morning. He was young Not too bright and needed a lot of forgiveness.thinking back, if the kid could have dropped down the after battery hatch and been able to toss a pair of lace panties on his bunk and say, "Had a GREAT weekend!" It would have eliminated a helluva lot of those, "Hey Dex, how was your weekend?" inevitable questions. Joy The picture is for you. In the shape he was in, he would have probably missed your underpants, too. THE PERISCOPE October

8 LOS ANGELES-PASADENA BASE 2014 Calendar of Events JAN 18 FEB 15 MAR 15 APR 19 MAY 10 MAY 17 MAY 24 MAY 26 JUN 21 JUL 4 JUL AUG 20 SEP 18 OCT NOV DEC Monthly Meeting Hobo Day Monthly Meeting WWII Submarine Veteran Recognition Monthly Meeting Spring Fling Monthly Meeting Call for volunteers for Memorial Day preparation Field Day at Memorial 0900 Monthly Meeting Nominating Committee appointed Call for participants for Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade Field Day at Memorial 0900 Memorial Day Service 1100 Submarine Memorial Memorial West Monthly Meeting Annual Steak Fry WWII Wives Recognition Call for Nominations for 2014 Base Officers 109th Annual Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade LeRoy Stone Memorial Picnic Bunker 33, Weapons Station Monthly Meeting Hawaiian Theme Announce slate of candidates for 2014 Base Officers ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING Election of Officers Monthly Meeting Annual Installation Luncheon Monthly Meeting Thanksgiving Theme Annual Christmas Luncheon Navy Golf Course, Cypress

9 Submarine Force Commemorates 4,000th Strategic Deterrent Patrol - Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs Continued from Page 1 relationships and render surprise attacks inconceivable. Today, we celebrate a very special milestone in the undersea warfare community as we commemorate the 4,000th strategic deterrent patrol conducted by our fleet ballistic missile submarines, said Vice Adm. Michael Connor, commander, Submarine Forces. Strategic deterrence has been the sole mission of the fleet ballistic missile submarine since its inception. As the sea-based leg of U.S. strategic deterrent forces, the current 14 Trident SSBNs carry more than 50 percent of the total U.S. strategic warheads. Today s concept of strategic deterrence seeks to deter attacks on the U.S. or its allies, dissuade adversaries from actions counter to stability, and peace, and to assure allies of the United States commitment to their security. Rear Adm. Chas Richard, Commander, Submarine Group 10, addresses guests. The current fleet of Ohio-class SSBNs has already been life-extended and cannot be extended any further. They must be replaced by new class of SSBNs to meet the our future strategic commitments. The Sailors have done their part to ensure peace and the ships have done their part too as they now start to serve well beyond their original design service life, said Connor. Now the country must do the same to continue to ensure the peace for our children and our children s children. We must build Ohio s replacement. There is no more important or more effective use of our national defense spending than to ensure that we build the 12 ships that will enable exceptional Sailors like you to guarantee the peace for future generations. Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, deputy chief of Naval Operations for Warfare Systems, echoed Connor s concerns about the Ohio replacements. We as a nation are also demonstrating credibility through commitment to our deterrence strategy, the sustainment of the Ohio class and the procurement of the Ohio replacement. We must procure and maintain a force of Ohio replacement SSBNs, in order to keep them properly postured and positioned to be survivable and to ensure adequate target coverage. While the material and mission readiness of the strategic deterrent fleet is primary focus areas, these elements would be mute without the personnel readiness of our Sailors. The professional and personal development needs of our Sailors and their families are critical aspects in recruiting and retaining our best and brightest to ensure mission accomplishment in the Submarine Force. The submarine is perhaps the most technological marvel ever! As we continue to build and develop new submarines they are becoming even more advanced - quieter, stealthier, going deeper, and armed with highly superior weapons systems, said Vice Adm. Terry Benedict, director, Strategic Systems Programs. However, this is all for naught if not for the men and now women of the silent service. Equally - if not more important than the payload or the platform is the Sailor. Our Sailors have and will continue to protect and provide credible deterrence to those who would otherwise wish us harm. In a letter sent to the Submarine Force, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus stated: It is my great honor to congratulate Commander, Submarine Forces and all the Sailors, civilians, and veterans of the Submarine Force who have dedicated themselves to achieving this significant milestone - our nation s 4,000th Strategic Deterrent Patrol. This milestone demonstrates not only the far-reaching importance of strategic deterrence to the security of the United States and its allies, but also the significant role the U.S. Navy plays in maintaining this posture. History shows us that it is difficult to predict the future of conflict. But it also shows us that we must always be prepared for the threat of conflict. So, I thank you, for protecting peace, promoting global security, and for all you do to ensure the safety of our Nation. THE PERISCOPE October

10 LA/PASADENA BASE USSVI ANNUAL INSTALLATION LUNCHEON On Saturday October 18, 2014, the LA/Pasadena Base USSVI will hold its annual installation of officers for the year The luncheon will be held at Bldg. 6 US Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, CA. There will be a formal installation of officers for the, LA/Pasadena Base USSVI. Social Hour: 11:00AM. - Luncheon served 12:00PM This Years Menu is as Follows: A buffet luncheon consisting of meat & bread platters catered from Katella Deli, Los Alamitos. This will also consist of selection, relishes, condiments and a desert tray. The cost of the luncheon will be $12.50 per person. Drinks will be available on a no-host basis from the bar. Please send your check and reservations (checks made out to LA/Pasadena Base USSVI) to the address shown below. Be sure and indicate how many of each. It is important to get the reservations in early to inform the base of the attendees. Name: Deli Luncheon: Name: Guest: Guest: Total X $12.50 = $ Mail to: Dave Vanderveen 6061 Broadstone Circle Huntington Beach, CA Phone: THE PERISCOPE October

11 UNITED STATES SUBMARINE FORCE LOSSES ON ETERNAL PATROL I can assure you that they went down fighting and that their brothers who survived them took a grim toll of our savage enmy to avenge their deaths. Vice Admiral Charles A. Lockwood, USN OCTOBER TOLLING OF THE BOATS USS SEAWOLF (SS-197) Lost on 3 Oct 1944 with the loss of 102 officers and men when she was sunk just north of Moritai by USS Rowell, a destroyer escort (DE). In this tragic error, Rowell mistook Seawolf for a Japanese submarine that had just sunk another destroyer. Seawolf ranks seventh for enemy ships sunk. USS S-44 (SS-155) Lost on 7 Oct 1943 with the loss of 56 men when it was sunk off Paramushiru, Kuriles. S-44 was on her fifth war patrol. After attacking a target thought to be a merchant on the surface, S-44 found herself in a losing gun battle with a heavily armed Japanese destroyer. Two men were taken prisoner, and survived the war. USS WAHOO (SS-238) Lost on 11 Oct 1943 with the loss of 79 men near La Pérouse Strait. Under command of one of the great sub skippers of World War II, LCDR Dudley Mush Morton, Wahoo was on her seventh war patrol. Wahoo was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation and ranks fifth in the number of enemy ships sunk. She was lost to depth charges dropped by a Japanese patrol aircraft. USS DORADO (SS-248) Lost on 12 Oct 1943 with the loss of 78 men when she was sunk in the western Atlantic near Cuba. Newly commissioned, Dorado had departed New London, CT and was enroute to Panama. She may have been sunk by a U.S. patrol plane that received faulty instructions regarding bombing restriction areas or by a German U-boat that was in the vicinity. USS ESCOLAR (SS-294) Lost on 17 Oct 1944 with the loss of 82 men. Escolar was on her first war patrol and was most likely lost to a mine somewhere in the Yellow Sea. USS SHARK II (SS-314) Lost on 24 Oct 1944 with the loss of 90 men when she was sunk near Hainan. The second boat to carry this name during World War II, she was on her third war patrol. Shark was sunk by escorts after attacking and sinking a lone freighter. Compounding the tragedy, it turned out that the freighter had 1800 U.S. POW s on board. USS DARTER (SS-227) Lost on 24 Oct 1944 when she became grounded on Bombay Shoal off Palawan and was then destroyed to prevent her falling into enemy hands intact. The entire crew was rescued by USS Dace. Awarded the Navy Unit Commendation, Darter had sunk a heavy cruiser and damaged another and went aground while attempting an end around on an enemy formation in hopes of getting in an attack position on a battleship. USS TANG (SS-306) Lost on 25 Oct 1944 with the lost of 80 men in the Formosa Strait. Tang was on her fifth war patrol. Tang ranks second in the number of ships sunk and fourth in tonnage, and was awarded two Presidential Unit Citations. During a daring night surface attack, Tang was lost to a circular run by one of her own torpedoes. Nine of the crew were taken prisoner, including CDR O Kane, and five who had gained the surface from her final resting place 180 feet below. All survived the war, and CDR O Kane was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. USS O-5 (SS-66) Lost on29 October 1923 with the loss of 3 men when rammed and sunk by SS Ababgarez off the Panama Canal. TM2(SS) Henry Berault received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic actions. THE PERISCOPE October

12 September Meeting Photo (Los Alamitos American Legion Post) Photo provided by Dennis Walsh Paul Riggs (center) hosting a table of guests: (l-r) Al Howard, IC2(SS) USS Segundo SS-398, Richard Howard, MM1 USS Long Beach CGN-9, Paul Riggs, Bob Douglas, LtCdr (Ret) CO USS Segundo SS-398, and Denny Nield (visiting from Mid Atlantic Base, Dover, Delaware). THE PERISCOPE October

13 September Meeting Photos (Los Alamitos American Legion Post) Photos provided by Dennis Walsh continued on page 19 THE PERISCOPE October

14 SILENT VICTORY The U.S. Submarine War Against Japan By Clay Blair, Jr. Here in a single book is the decisive word on American s submarine activity in World War II. Clay Blair cuts to the core to tell the full and compete story holding back nothing. From before the war got underway until the last torpedo was fired in 1945 no submarine library should be without this outstanding book! Silent Victory takes you into the submarine war on all levels, the highest strategy sessions in Washington, the terrifying moments aboard a submarine trapped on the bottom as Japanese depth charges explode around it. Jealous infighting of admirals vying for power, overcautious skippers, the shocking torpedo scandal and the toll it took. The complete saga that led to victory is here a work of great scholarship and scope, a timeless contribution to the history of World War II. In preparing to write this book, Clay Blair, Jr., combed hundreds of thousands of pages of recently declassified documents and personal letters. In individual interviews he listened to scores of World War II submarine skippers, staff officers, and code breakers speaking freely. He researched in depth the development of submarine and torpedo from pre-war days down to the present time Bantam Softbound edition, a large 6X9 inches, nearly 2 inches thick. 1,072 pages, 91 black and white photographs, 37 maps and an extensive 104 page appendix with index. This book has the same great information found in the original 1975 first edition. THE PERISCOPE October

15 Some Recollections of Events During the Cuban Missile Crisis: Recollections from USS Spikefish (SS404) - Capt. Richard Fox (USN Ret) Editor s Note: Dick sent this to me after the reunion. I scanned it into my computer and it sat there until the last newsletter. The narrative will have to be in installments as it too long for one edition. If anyone wants Dick s original notes, let me know and I will send it out by USPS or electronically. This installment also contains the original installment. So here goes!!...hal (Silverman) Since the events of the Cuban Missile Crisis took place some 30 years ago, memories are a bit blurred. Perhaps some of the events are off in a detail or two, but mainly they are fact. The following is not exciting reading, but circumstances did get our adrenalin flowing at the time. I had taken command of Spikefish in the summer of A few words about the boat are necessary to understand how the boat was being used. Spikefish was a fleet type submarine which means in effect she was very nearly like she was at the end of WWII. Deck guns had been removed but the cigarette deck (raised platform aft of the periscopes) had been retained. At first sighting, you would look to see if Clark Gable or John Wayne was still on the bridge. Spikefish s assigned missions were two fold. The mission was to provide realistic target sorties for the sonar school in Key West and to provide underway training services for in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. We also provided a pool of trained submariners for the nuclear power training program. I do not recall a large number of volunteers for nuke training (since diesel was so enjoyable) but Admiral Rickover s chief recruiter, AKA Buck the body snatcher (Submariners will know who I mean) saw to it that sufficient numbers were always leaving. All of the above aside, Spikefish could be a formidable foe. All ten 21 torpedo tubes were still installed and everything (word underlined) on board was in commission and in good working order. We could handle Mk 14, 16 and 27 torpedoes. Our real limitations were not having a snorkel or modernized SONAR. This would put us at a serious disadvantage in a protracted SS vs. SS ASW against a newer submarine that had these capabilities. We would also be at considerable risk where enemy air cover was to be expected. Nevertheless, we were well trained and not overly concerned about any Soviet unit we were likely to encounter. I do not recall the exact date that things got hot, but it was the same day President Kennedy made his radio address to the nation at night. It so happened that Spikefish had been previously ordered to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba that morning to provide target services for underway training. Therefore we were already topped off with fuel, supplies, water, and a half war load of torpedoes. As I recall, we were scheduled to leave midmorning. I received a telephone call at home (We lived in quarters at Trumbo Point) in the middle of the night from our Division Engineer who told me to be prepared to sail first thing in the morning. Now this sounded very strange to me since he knew very well we were prepared to do just that. He appeared to be evasive when I questioned him on his motives, so I decided to go to the base and find out what was going on. When I got to the base, I was told we might be having trouble with Cuba/Soviets and therefore the squadron of submarines was being ordered to leave the vicinity and head north. The general idea was that our submarines were not have a large part to play in anticipated action and it would be best if we got out of the way. Thus if a submarine was detected later on it could be attacked immediately with overwhelming force and without concerned that it may have been one of ours. Put in these terms, it seemed entirely logical for us to head north. Taking advantage of the fact I was Captain, I returned home to kiss the wife and kids goodbye. Of course I could not tell them what was happening or where we were going. (Since I really did not know myself). I assumed then that the squadron staff and tender would see to all of their needs as well as the rest of the crew s families. I did not need to remind my wife as the Captain s Lady, she would be responsible in large part to see to the concerns of the officer s and men s dependents left behind. It can be imagined the naval base was a beehive of activity. Our ship s recall plan had been executed with no problems. We doubled everything we could think of which might be needed for an extended deployment, and all we came up with was a request for some extra rolls of paper tape for use in radio. It was furnished instantly. The squadron was not about to give us extra torpedoes since they were going to the GUPPY boats and others whose loads were down. Continued on Page 16 THE PERISCOPE October

16 Recollections from USS Spikefish (SS404) - Capt. Richard Fox (USN Ret) (continued) Continued from Page 15 Many of the boats were in various stages of upkeep and were now getting ready for sea. All were taking on extra provisions and stores. Paperwork was at a minimum and if you needed it, you got it. The example of cooperation, professionalism, and ability to just get it done by the squadron, tender, base and boats helping each other was absolutely magnificent. By noon all the boats in the squadron had sailed except two. One was ordered to remain behind for possible requirements, and the other was having propellers reinstalled. (a second story but I will let others recount). This latter boat soon got underway and joined the others at sea. (Note: I am not sure if Marlin and Mackerel (T1 and T2) left Key West, I think they did but am not sure. At sea, squadron boats were formed into two groups-one to go to Charleston and one to go to Norfolk. Memory fails me if any of the Key West boats went directly to patrol station. I was not in a position to know. Simply was not any of my business. We made the torpedoes fully ready as war shots and loaded them in the tubes. This is a time consuming evolution, and very few people aboard had ever been involved in making a weapon ready in all respects. We did not know what to expect on this trip, but we would be ready for all eventualities instantly. We headed north on the surface in a loose diamond formation (but in two separate groups). We would dive occasionally and get a trim and on our way. On board evolutions were on a war time basis, but still with a 3 section watch. The situation was never clear to un until the President addressed the nation that night on radio. Then it seemed that we might get into a shooting match. Now everyone married on board had left family in Key West. I can t speak to the families thoughts since I was not there. But being 90 miles from Cuba, it must have been tense. Logic showed clearly that Key West would not be attacked by conventional forces. Bolsa Chica NAS and local surface forces were more than a match for any Cuban/Soviet effort. If on the other hand, a nuclear attack was attempted on Key West, it probably could not be prevented, except Cuba and Russia would shortly cease to exist. We did not think that Castro and Khrushchev were completely crazy. But we could not /did not rule out action in the Atlantic away from populated areas. All we could do for the families in Key West was to carry assignments the best we could to contribute to the overall effort in getting the crisis resolved in our favor. (Note: This may sound like preaching motherhood to skeptic readers, but that is the way it was) Spikefish was first scheduled to go to Charleston, but was later assigned to the group headed to Norfolk. I have no idea why the original port assignments, or changes to the plans were made. We did get a report of there being a possibility of two Soviet W class submarines in the vicinity of Cape Hatteras, but we never had confirmation of this. In retrospect, this was not very likely but the scenario we were operating under had not seemed likely in 1961 either. We arrived in Norfolk four or five days later. Since we left in such a hurry, the only uniforms the crew had with them were for tropical wear i.e. whites and dungarees. As near as I can recall the Key West boats coming north were the ATULE, THREADFIN and SPIKEFISH. If other boats came, I do not remember. Of the boats arriving, SOPA first designated the uniforms entering port to be whites, then changed to dungarees and foul weather gear, and later to anything you can wear to keep warm. It was cold. SPIKEFISH was the last to tie up at the destroyer escort piers. (The name submarine was not added to the name of this location until years later). As soon as the lines were over, I attended a conference in the wardroom of the tender. As I recall THREADFIN and ATULE were ordered to some duty at sea and SPIKEFISH was told to standby for further instructions. Since it was obvious, we were not leaving for a war patrol, I offered whatever weapons, pyrotechnics, etc. we had on board to ATULE and THREADFIN. They accepted some minor items and went on their way. Later I called on COMSUBLANT, VADM Joe Grenfell, at his office in NORVA. I told the Admiral we were ready for any and all assignments. He replied that he appreciated that, but had nothing for us at that time, but to stay ready and stand by. (To be continued next issue.) THE PERISCOPE October

17 THE LA/PASADENA BASE USSVI ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON On Saturday December 20, 2014 the LA/Pasadena Base USSVI will hold their annual Christmas luncheon for the year The luncheon will be held at the Los Alamitos Golf Course. It is a time of year to visit with our submarine friends and their guests. More time will be devoted to this activity. This Christmas we will feature a Tolling of the Boats Social Hour: 11:30AM. - Luncheon served 12:30PM This Years Menu is as Follows: Prime Rib or Grilled Salmon Garlic Mashed Potatoes Vegetable Medley Spring Mix Salad with Raspberry Dressing Rolls w/ butter Desert: TBD Coffee and Iced Tea on Table As always, it is very important that you get your reservations in ASAP so that we can give the Golf Course a firm headcount no later then 7 days before the luncheon. The cost of the luncheon will be $25.00 per person. Drinks will be available from the Lounge. Please send your check and reservations (checks made out to LA/Pasadena Base USSVI) to the address shown below. Be sure to indicate your choice of entrée and how many of each. Name: Name: Prime Rib Salmon Veggie Guest: Guest: Total # of dinners X $25.00 $ Mail to: Dave Vanderveen 6061 Broadstone Circle Huntington Beach, CA Phone: THE PERISCOPE October

18 Sub School Commander: Navy Seeks to Adapt its Training for Millennials - Associated Press GROTON The U.S. Navy is looking for ways to adapt its training for millennials, young people raised in a child-centric culture who want and expect nurturing relationships with their bosses, the commanding officer of the submarine school in Groton said Friday. A 1989 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Jarrett is a career submarine officer who assumed command in July 2013 at the Naval Submarine School, which has a staff of 400 people and about 1,500 students enrolled on a given day. He served previously for four years at the academy in Annapolis, Maryland, where he became deputy commandant of midshipmen. At the sub school, many of the students are enlisted sailors who arrive in their late teens and early 20s. Jarrett said many come from backgrounds with strong family support, and when they arrive in Groton, there s a sense of `where s my Navy mom and dad? That s where we as a submarine force are struggling a bit, said Jarrett, who added that some junior officers have had a hard time adjusting to Navy ways. More broadly, Jarrett said he has focused on emphasizing ethics at the sub school. In presentations to students, he said he reviews the cases of disgraced officers including Cmdr. Michael P. Ward II, the former commander of a Connecticut-based attack submarine who faked his own death to end an extramarital affair. We don t give our kids clear enough messages about right and wrong, he said. Capt. Andrew C. Jarrett, CO Submarine School Navy Capt. Andrew Jarrett, a self-described member of Generation X, said that as commander of the submarine school he has made it a priority to focus on mentoring. For millennials, it s very important for them to have a relationship with their boss, just like they had with their parents, Jarrett said during a talk with a submarine veterans group. They don t want to be friends but they want you to care about them and give them feedback. While some see the craving for feedback as a weakness, Jarrett said it could be a benefit if it s embraced by the Navy. He said the chief of naval operations has indicated his office is reviewing changes that may help tailor training for the new generation of sailors and officers. U.S. Navy Submarine Base, Groton, CT THE PERISCOPE October

19 USS Georgia Returns to Port Following 17-Month Deployment - Peach Pundit The Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Georgia (SSGN 729) has returned to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay after being deployed for 17 months. The U.S. Navy was kind enough to supply a photo of the submarine s homecoming to Peach Pundit. USS Georgia (SSGN 729) In an , the USN said to Peach Pundit: Currently, there are roughly 11,080 Sailors from Ga. serving in the U.S. Navy. Our office decided sharing these great Navy hometown stories about a year ago to let taxpayers know what their Navy does to protect America. INSTALLATION LUNCHEON As a reminder, the installation luncheon will be held October 18, 2014 in Bldg. 6 Naval Weapons Station, Seal Beach CA. Please note that the luncheon will NOT be at the golf course. There will be a no-host buffet luncheon consisting of a catered menu from Katella Deli. Cold cuts, potato salad, Cole Slaw and a desert tray will be featured. The luncheon will start at 12:00 Noon with an attitude adjustment hour starting at 11:00AM. The actual installation will begin during the desert portion of the meal. Dennis Walsh will need to know that actual number of persons planning to attend the luncheon for security purpose. Please note that there is an address change. The checks are to be sent directly to the treasurer Dave Vanderveen. As in the past, please make checks payable to the LA/Pasadena Base USSVI. Please do not make checks to either Dave or me. His address and telephone are located at the bottom of the registration form on page 10. See you there. Hal In memory of the fifty-two submarines lost in World War II SEALION S-36 S-26 SHARK I Perch S-27 GRUNION S-39 ARGONAUT AMBERJACK GRAMPUS TRITON PICKEREL GRENADIER RUNNER R-12 GRAYLING POMPANO CISCO S-44 DORADO WAHOO CORVINA SCULPIN CAPELIN SCORPION GRAYBACK TROUT TULLIBEE GUDGEON HERRING GOLET S-28 ROBALO HARDER SEAWOLF DARTER SHARK II TANG ESCOLAR ALBACORE GROWLER SCAMP SWORDFISH BARBEL KETE TRIGGER SNOOK LAGARTO BONEFISH BULLHEAD FLIER THE PERISCOPE October