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USNA Class of 1963 |
![]() photos courtesy: USS WASP (LHD 1) |
From Bob Forster: If you plan on attending Joel Warshaw's funeral at Arlington and the luncheon at Ft Meyer, please let Mikaela Clark mikaela_rossman@hotmail.com know you will be there.The funeral is on April 3rd at 11am at Arlington National Cemetery. Weather in this area can be extra unpredictable that time of year--it could be 30* or 90*. The ceremony date is also during the Cherry Blossom Festival, so expect traffic and parking to be extra challenging. ANC is accessible via the Metro on the Blue Line, Arlington Cemetery Stop.
https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Funerals/Attending-a-Funeral/Order-of-Events
The lunch reception will be following the ceremony, at approximately 12:30pm, at Ft. Myer, Patton Hall. This is about a 20 minute walk or 10 minute drive from the cemetery. You will need to obtain base access to attend the reception. It is recommended that you follow the process for base access prior to the day of the reception, however it can be accomplished on the day of the event, but will require a wait time before you are able to enter the base. Details about base access are below.
https://jbmhh.armymwr.com/programs/patton-hall-community-club-and-conference-center
JBM-HH VISITOR PASS REQUEST PROCESS
ONLINE PASS REQUEST-
For one day access requests for events, or general access you may complete an online request through JBM-HH online website: https://pass.aie.army.mil/jbmhh. All requests should be submitted with as much advance notice as possible to ensure adequate processing and vetting time. Processing times will vary pending the number of requests in the queue. If practicable, requests should be submitted a minimum of four business days in advance of intended entry. Requests submitted less than four business days should be submitted as a short notice request; however, requests annotated as a short notice request does not guarantee processing in time for requested installation access. You must have a valid Driver's License and Social Security number to utilize this system. You may also have to take a photo.
*If you receive a NEGATIVE VETTING Result or No photo is displayed on your pass you must come to the JBM-HH VCC (Bldg. S507) to receive your pass.
PRE-VET EVENT PASS ACCESS REQUEST-
To acquire installation pass onto Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (JBM-HH), for Event attendees, they must fill out the JBM-HH Installation Access Request Form 190-16x. Visitor applicants would need to complete questions 1-2-3-5-6a-6b-7-9-10-12 and 13 on the front page and numbers 1-2 and 3 on the reverse page. If any of your attendees possess DoD CAC ID or Military/Dependent ID cards, then as a result, they would not have to fill out the application. Also, if any of your attendees are under the age of 18, they would not have to fill out the application. All applications should be turned in to us 10 days prior to an event or emailed to usarmy.jbmhh.asa.mbx.visitor-control-center@mail.mil.
*This process is used to Pre-Vet applicants ONLY. This only clears applicants for entry and does not issue a pass. Individuals will still have to come inside the Visitor Control Center to receive their pass.
VISITOR PASS REQUEST-
Visitors to JBM-HH may report to the JBM-HH Visitor Control Center, Bldg. S507 located adjacent to Hatfield Gate or Bldg. 65 on Fort McNair. You will need to bring required Government Issued identification which will be presented to the VCC Staff for the Installation access vetting process. You will need to provide your Social Security Number onto a Keypad and (if required) you may need to have your photograph taken. If approved you will be given a temporary pass from 1 to 60 days. This process is very quick and can only take a couple of minutes (depending on number of events.
*If denied you will be provided a Memo and Waiver Packet. Reason for Denial is not authorized to be provided.
FOREIGN VISITOR PASS REQUEST
An individual who is a Non US Citizen requires additional checks. In Addition to the QH (Computerized Criminal History Check) and the QR (Individual Criminal Records Request).This additional check is the IAQ (Immigration Assessment Query). All individuals who request access to JBM-HH using a foreign Passport (without a VISA) will be required to fill out a JBM-HH Form 190-16x. It will be explained that they are not able to gain access onto the installation until results have been returned. This may take a while, as request is sent to other agency for response.
Fort Myer VCC Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday, from 0600 to 1700
Saturday, from 1000 through 1500
(703) 696-0185Fort McNair VCC Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday, from 0800 to 1600.
(202) 685-7762If attending the luncheon you will need a military ID (retired or dependent) card to get on base. Otherwise see the instructions at the end of this email to obtain a visitor's pass for Ft Meyer.
Ron Klemick's Inurnment has been rescheduled for 1400 on Tuesday, 9 May at the Columbarium. There will be a reception at the O'Club following the ceremony, which Spence has graciously helped Sandy and son Matt coordinate. Also , Ben has arranged a discounted block of rooms ($149) at the DoubleTree by Hilton (our 60th Reunion hotel) just off Riva Road for the 8th and 9th of May; they are cancellable until 2 days prior and must be made by 30 days prior. Please make them ASAFeasible at this link:https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/anpdtdt-zmk-f8aea6bb-016f-4a34-9060-f780e58932ba/ or call 1-800-222-TREE and use Group Code ZMK
Please let Watt know if you plan to attend... perrymiles@cox.net
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,Reunion Gouge.
Bill Earner, our reunion chairman has just passed the following information for dissemination to the class:
" Dear Classmates,
We have just been informed by the Naval Academy Athletic Association that we must have all tickets for the reunion game with Air Force purchased by May 1st. I recognize that this is a short timeline but since the game is undoubtedly going to be a sellout the NAAA wants to know just how many tickets are sold as soon as possible so as to give everyone who wants one a fair shot at getting one.
You may order tickets from the NAAA at the Navy Sports web site Navysports.com (go to Tickets Tab>Ticket Promo Codes, then ENTER PROMO Code 1963
We will use PROMO code 1963. It is very important that you use the PROMO code when ordering so that NAAA recognizes the class order and your tickets are in the Class of 1963 section. That way we can ask for more tickets if our initial block request is filling up ahead of the May 1st deadline. If you want to sit as a company group it is recommended to have one person order all the tickets for the group/company and the others pay that person. Still - remember to use the PROMO code: 1963.
The tickets for the Air Force game are eighty dollars each (e$80).
If you are planning to attend the Tailgate party ahead of the game you must have a football game ticket to enter the Tailgate area. If you are not interested in watching the game from a seat in the Class section, you may order a Standing Room Only (SRO) ticket. SRO tickets cost fifty dollars ($50). You will not be permitted into the stadium seating area with an SRO ticket but may easily watch from the end zone wall area. It is the current plan to hold the Tailgate under the large tent adjacent to the Class of '53 pavilion.
I recognize this is a major change from our past reunions in Annapolis but at this point in our journey I think we can make it happen and have a wonderful reunion.
Thanks for your support,
Bill Earner,
Chair, 60th Reunion, Class of 1963 "
Herndon
Word has just been received that the traditional Herndon climb for the Class of 2026 will be rescheduled from the beginning of graduation week to the final event of the grueling 15 or 16 hour "Sea Trials" now imposed on each Plebe Class at the end of the year. Sea Trials are meant to test individual stamina and strength, ingenuity, team building, coordination, and spirit. Events are held on both sides of the Severn, including crossing the river in rubber boats. The Herndon climb will be the final event of Sea Trials, testing class ability to coordinate and achieve the replacing of the Dixie cup at the top with a combination cover. Having seen the mud and sweat covered midshipmen at the end of Sea Trials, there may be no need to grease the Herndon monument. I predict slower times for the climb given the exhausted condition of the Plebes at the outset.
On completion of the Herndon climb and the switching of the headgear, the Plebes are promoted to Third Class Midshipmen, and the chant will truly be "T'aint No Plebes No More"
That's all the news for now, folks.
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
Joel's local visitation will be held Thursday the 23rd at 1000 at Vale-Hoskins Funeral Home (513 W Pike St., Morrow, OH 45152), followed by an open house at Hamilton Township Police Department (7780 S St Rt 48, Maineville, OH 45039.
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,Exams are over. Bancroft Hall is all but deserted. The Brigade of Midshipmen is on Christmas leave. The weather is icy cold, with temperatures well below feezeing, and winds sufficient to halt all traffic on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.
Navy Football. The season came to an end on december 10th with a heartbreaking loss to Army (20-17) in double overtime. Immediately following the outcome of the game, long time (15 year ) head coach, Ken Niamatalolo, was unceremoniously fired from his position for failure to meet expectations to win the Commander-in- Chief"s trophy, complete a winning season (6 games in the win column), and receive a bowl bid, in four of the past five years. There are many who think that Coach Niamatalolo should have been allowed to finish the last year of his current contract. Next year should be a much better season for Navy with 17 of 22 starters returning and three of the top competitors in the league withdrawing from the conference (Houston, University of Central Florida, and Cincinnati). Others think a change in football leadership is badly needed. The sports columnist John Feinstein wrote in the Washington Post that Navy will be hard pressed to find another coach with Ken Niamatalolo's qualities of coaching, leadership, character, integrity and devotion to developing future leaders as well as football players.
Defensive coordinater Brian Newberry has been named as interim head coach. Newberry has been the defensive coordinator for the past four years and is largely responsible for the nationally ranked performance of Navy's defensive platoon. He is a known quantity and highly respected by the team and Navy fans. The line backers coach has been moved up to defensive coordinator. A nation wide search is ongoing for assistant coaches and an offensive coordinator.
Kudos. The Superintendent in addressing the December meeting of the Council of Class President's, said that the Naval Academy has been named by US News and World Report the best public college in the country; number 4 in undergraduate engineering; and number 6 in liberal arts education. The Navy graduation rate is 91.2 percent (one of the highest in the nation---USMA 84%, USAFA 82.1%) with only 1.2 percent of those who fail to graduate due to academic failure, again leading the nation. The Terwilliger, Class of 1963 Academic Center for Excellance was singled out as a major contributor to this awesome achievement. Well done to all hands. Also of note, Navy has a total of 35 varsity sports and eight club sports, behind only Stanford University and Ohio State University which have 37 varsity sports. Plans are to add two more varsity sports to the Navy roster in the near term.
My Favorite Christmas Story. I apologize for retelling this story, but it comes to mind every Christmas. I came to the Naval Academy from Charleston, South Carolina. Our Plebe year the governor of South Carolina, Fritz Hollings, arranged to have a South Carolina Air National Guard "Flying Boxcar" come to Andrews Air Force Base to bring us home to South Carolina. All we had to do was get to Andrews. The night before we were released for Christmas leave it began to snow in Annapolis. By noon on Saturday, there were eight or ten or more inches of snow on the ground. Nothing was moving. Four or five of us found a taxi driver willing to attempt the trip to Andrews. When we arrived we found that nothing was flying due to the snow. The Air Force put us up in the Visiting Officers Quarters overnight. The next morning at 0600, before the sun was up, there was a knock at the door. An Air Force airman had arrived to take us to the flight line. He took one look at me in my bridge coat with eight big brass buttons and my cap with a slim gold chin strap, and said "Can I take yout bag, Sir?" That was the best Christmas present I ever got.
See you at our 60th reunion here in Annapolis 19-22 October 2023.
From our house here in Annapolis to yours, best wishes for a Happy Hanukkah, a Merry Christmas in the warmth of family and friends, and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson
There will be a reception after the ceremony at the Arlington Army Navy Country Club from about 2 to 4:00pm
Peter will be Inured in the Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) Columbarium with his son Josh on Tuesday, December 13th at 1:00 pm.I apologize for the late notification. I have confirmed the date and time on the ANC website.
I believe that there is a reception following the service but I do not have the details; nor do I have POC info for his wife, Jacki.
Notes: ANC requests visitors arrive 45min to ½ hour ahead of time WITH vehicles. Vehicles will be needed for the service. Proceed to the security guards and notify them you are there for a service. ANC has implemented 100% ID checks at all entrances and requires all visitors to go through physical screening
Original documentation is required. Paper copies or cell phone photos of identification are not accepted.
§ Visitors 18 years of age and older must present a valid U.S. state or federal government-issued photo identification for entry.
§ Visitors 16 and 17 years old who do not have a U.S. state or federal government-issued photo identification may present an official school-issued photo identification for entry.
§ Persons who are not U.S. citizens must present a valid passport or U.S. State Department-issued photo identification for entry.
Dear Classmates, family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,The weather is crisp and cool here in Annapolis. Wood smoke is in the air. This Sunday we turn our chronometers back an hour; a welcome addition to our now all too familiar long winter's nap.
Football The football season is fast advancing toward the season closer against Army on December 10 in Philadelphia.
Last Saturday's game was exciting against Temple. Entering the game 20 1/2 point favorites, Navy lost its starting quarterback to a season ending leg injury in the first quarter. His replacement, Xavier "X" Arline, frittered away a 13 point Navy lead, failing to spark the Navy offense. The game ended in a 20-20 tie. Going into overtime. Arline scored a touchdown on a 23 yard run to make the score 27-20 Navy. The defense prevented Temple scoring with a fourth down interception in the end zone to end the game at 27-20. The victory deprived Brigade went wild with joy, leaving the stadium winners.
There are no more home games here in Annapolis. Our tailgate tent has been folded and is now in storage until next season.
Three games against well ranked teams precede the Army game:
On 5 November, Navy meets the University of Cincinnati Bearcats in Cincinnati.
On 12 November the Midshipmen face the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame in Baltimore's Raven's Stadium. There are tickets still available:
--Al Sherman has two 45 yard line seats available (row 17 section 527). Price $80.00 apiece. Contact Al at 703-537-6089 if interested.
--Marion Alexander '64 has two 50 yard line tickets for $80.00 apiece. Contact Marion at 410-267-9241 if interested.
On 19 November Navy faces off against the University of Central Florida (UCF), another real powerhouse. For those classmates who will be in the Orlando area attending the game or otherwise, Ken Metviner and Bruce Webb have extended an invitation to join them at their club after the game. The Artisan Club is located at 1343 Celebration Avenue in Kissimmee, Florida. Please let Ken know if you are interested in coming. His e-mail is: kmetviner919@aol.com.
If you have recently moved or changed your e-mail address, please let me, Mike Shelley (nstar@comperium.net) or Steve Coester (Steve.Coester@1963.USNA.com) know so that we can update our class and alumni house rosters and keep you in the loop. Don't be one of the ten percent that never gets the word.
That's all the news that's fit to print.
Stay healthy and stay warm.
Quality '63 !
Spencer Johnson '63
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,The weather has turned cool here in Annapolis. Fall has arrived. The Midshipmen, some for the first time, are in service dress blues. Football. After four lack luster games, the Navy offense took the field last Saturday to defeat the University of Tulsa 53 to 21. By all accounts, it was a "blow out" against a team that was favored by 6 points going into the game. Tulsa never had the lead at any point. The Navy defense sparkled throughout as in previous games. The offense did nothing but "click" in all four quarters. The season ahead looks a lot brighter begining with Southern Metodist University this Friday night at 1930 EST followed by Houston the following week here in Annapolis. While we narrowly lost to Air Force (23-20) at Colorado Springs, last weeks' win bodes well for a Navy win over Army on December 10th.
Ron Klemick. Wednesday's scheduled inurnment of Ron Klemick's remains in the Naval Academy Columbarium has been postponed until next Spring. Sandy Klemick was admitted to the hospital in North Carolina with blood clotting in both legs that required emergency surgery to alleviate. She is reported to be making a good recovery, including time in a rehab facility before going home. She has family in the immediate area.
Reunion Gauge. The Sixtieth Class Reunion is being planned for the weekend of 19-21 October 2023. Mark your calenders now. Navy will be playing Air Force at home.
We have blocked rooms at the Doubletree hotel off Riva Road in Annapolis. Rooms cannot be reserved before 24 October 2022 when a link will be sent for easy access to room reservations. The hotel has a big parking lot, easy access with few stairs and good elevators. We are planning a class dinner, class meeting , and casual get togethers at the Doubletree. We will begin the reunion with company events on Thursday evening.
On Friday October 20 there will be the traditional golf tournament chaired by Jim Lloyd. The Mid store will be open all day. We will hold a Class Memorial Service at 1100 in the Chapel. The Supe will speak to all alumni at about 1330 in Alumni Hall. There will be a P-rade at 1600 for which we will have a class block of seats. The day will conclude with a Class dinner at the Doubletreee.
Saturday will include a no host brunch and Class meeting followed by the stadium tailgate. Football kickoff time has yet to be determined. (TBD).
Post game events will be casual or as scheduled by companies.
A "no host" brunch will conclude the reunion on Sunday morning.
That's all the gauge for now. Sir, I am shoving off !!!
Beat SMU !
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
Click Here to read the article.
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,Plebe Summer for the Class of 2026 ended on 18 August. The Brigade had since "reformed" for the new academic year with the class of 2026 fully integrated.
Football. The new season kicks off on Saturday with a home game against the University of Delaware. The Navy team is young and relatively inexperienced, but Coach Niamatalolo is quick to point out that this is the first time in two years that the team has fully coalesced and trained together over Spring and Summer training periods prior to the season opening. All positions are filled by highly competetive Navy players eager to prove themselves and their team. Delaware, by contrast, has the majority of first string players in their fifth or even sixth years in college. No matter how you slice it, Saturday's game should prove closely contested and a great start to the new season. Kick off time is 12 noon. The game will be carried on CBS channels.
The second game of the season is against the University od Memphis on 10 September, again here in Annapolis. Kickoff against Memphis is scheduled for 1530.
Our class tailgate is once again located at site 12A. The tent is up. Use Gate three (3) to access parking. Gate Three is located at the corner of Farragut Road and Cedar Park Road. Please bring brunch type foods to share since the game begins at noon this week. Next week, luncheon items are more appropriate since kickoff is at 1530.
Once again, you will find a glass jar for donations to cover the not inconsiderable costs of erecting, striking, and storing our class tent, and for the rental of tables and chairs for our events. Please be as generous as you can. Our class funds are not inexhaustible and will soon be needed for reunion planning expenses.
See you at the game!
Beat Delaware!
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson
Published in thehill.com. Click Here to read the article.
Two seats in upper blue ’63 section. Parking next to tailgate. All electronic ticketing – I can transfer tix and parking pass to you. $50/ticket + $30 parking. 703-820-5204
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,The "dog days" of summer have arrived in Annapolis. Every day is well over 90 degrees. Showers and thunderstorms are welcomed as long as they bring cooler temperatures with them, Bancroft is air conditioned.
Around the Yard
The Class of 2026, 1175 strong, was sworn in at the end of June and embarked on their Plebe Summer. Parent's weekend is only a week away. as is the return of the Brigade for "reformation" immediately thereafter.
The football team began practice for the 2022 season yesterday afternoon. Navy was placed number nine out of ten (ahead only of Temple) in the AAC conference pre-season poll. Coach Niematalolo is unfazed. He said Navy would rather be the under dog. He is highly optimistic for a winning season. Although Navy is a young team with many vacancies to fill, Spring practice revealed great candidates to fill those vacancies. The season opens with the first of two home games against the University of Delaware on 3 September (1200 game time), followed by the University of Memphis on 10 September ( 1530 game time). September closes out with a game against the University of East Carolina on the 24th. Our class tailgate tent will be in our usual spot (12A) backing onto Farragut Road. Please bring refreshments for a potluck gathering as we have done in the past
Farewells:
Mel Bunnel went to his rest in Arlington cemetery on 11 July.
Tomorrow at 1030 we lay to rest our classmate Michael G. Colston in the Columbarium.
William Douglass Davidson will be inurned at the Columbarium at 1030 on 11 August. A young Marine captain from the Class of 2013 has volunteered to lead the Marine party rendering military honors and will present the flag to Charlsie, Doug's widow. A reception will follow at the Annapolis Yacht Club. If you have not already let me know if you plan to attend, please do so as soon as possible so we can get a good count of classmates attending.
Nancy Helsper, wife of Charlie Helsper will precede him in the Columbarium at 1030 on 16 September.
Ron Klemick will be laid to rest at 1400 on 12 October in the Columbarium. A reception will follow at the Officer's and Faculty Club. Again, please let me know if you plan to attend Ron's service and reception.
The Last Paladin. Peter Deuterman's latest novel of WWII in the Pacific is now published. In this book an Atlantic Fleet destroyer escort is transferred to the Pacific where it puts its ASW expertise gained on Atlantic convoy duty to good account against the Japanese. A stirring and realistic telling of war at sea as only Peter can tell it.
Beat everyone !!
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson
For those of you who have not seen my videos on YouTube channel "author rubel" please take a moment and visit the site. I posted another one to make it 4 letters from the edge and 4 about catharsis in writing. If you like them please forward to your friends and subscribe to the channel as well.The latest is about a divorcée that retreats to a small town in the Sierra Nevada mountains to find peace. I have many more to post and will let you know when I do so. Some are funny some are sad but one or more will touch you in a way that will make you happy or sad but at least have some emotional impact.
The first 2 videos concern Catharsis in writing and a method used to relive people of deeply hidden traumas and enable them to deal with them in a conscious level. The first letter from the edge was based on Reed Farrington dying in Carmel CA. I have about 25 of them that I will post one every 10 days!
The following services for our Classmates are scheduled at the USNA Columbarium
Michael G. Colston Inurement at USNA Columbarium on Friday August 5th. No other info availableDoug Davidson Inurement at USNA Columbarium on August 11 at 10:30am followed by a reception at the Annapolis Yacht Club Sailing Center in Eastport on Severn Ave. On street parking. Notify Spencer Johnson if you plan to attend wsjohnson63@gmail.com
Nancy Helsper, wife of Charles Helsper, Inurement at USNA Columbarium on Friday, September 16th at 10:30am
Ron Klemick Inurement at USNA Columbarium on October12 at 2pm followed by a reception at the Officer’s/ Faculty Club. Contact Watt Miles by email (perrymiles@cox.net) or phone (757-423-7614) if you plan to attend the reception at the USNA O-Club following.
From Dave Emerson--Military Retirees and Dependents With ID Cards That Don’t Expire Need to Get Replacements Within 4 Years. See https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/07/14/military-retirees-and-dependents-id-cards-dont-expire-need-get-replacements-within-4-years.html
Don will be laid to rest at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth Florida on August 15th at 3:00 pm.
The inurnment for Ron will be at the Naval Academy Columbarium on 12 October 2022 at 1400. A reception will follow at the O'Club.
Jack Dranttel’s inurement in the USNA Columbarium will be at 10:30am on Wednesday, June 22nd. There will be a reception at the Academy Club after the service.If you plan to attend the reception please RSVP to Jim Ring at jep.ring@gmail.com . He will notify the family.
Date: Monday June 13th at 11 am ETPlace: Arlington National Cemetery
Notes: ANC requests visitors arrive 45min ahead of time WITH vehicles. Vehicles will be needed for the service. Proceed to the security guards and notify them you are there for a service. ANC has implemented 100% ID checks at all entrances and requires all visitors to go through physical screening. Visitors 18 years of age and older must present a valid U.S. state or federal government issued photo identification for entry.
After the Service we will be going to Sequoia at 3000 K Street NW in Washington, DC 20007 (202-944-4200). Reservations are for 12:30. IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON ATTENDING, PLEASE EMAIL dave.lagassa@yahoo.com so we can get an accurate count and adjust accordingly. All are welcome.
Right now we are expecting Zoe, myself, Deb, AJ (USAFA '22), Matt (my middle son), Diane (Dad's oldest sister), Derek Simmons, Jim Penrod, and Jim Shull. Sam (my youngest son) will be away at NROTC Boot Camp at Great Lakes.
Weather: 10-day forecast looks good - partly sunny with temps 65-80F. But it is summer in DC so that could change.
If there are questions, email me at: dave.lagassa@yahoo.com
The following services for our Classmates are scheduled at Arlington or USNA ColumbariumBob LaGassa will be buried at Arlington on Monday, June 13th at 11AM.
No other info at this timeJack Dranttel Inurement at USNA Columbarium on June 22.
There will be a reception at the Academy Club after Jack Dranttel’s serviceMel Bunnell's funeral is set at Arlington for Monday, July 11th at 11 AM. Please arrive at the Admin Building by 10:15am.
Following the ceremony, Mel and Marilyn's daughter Susan Mercer will host a reception at the Women's Memorial adjacent to the cemetery. For planning purposes, please let Susan or Ray Hoag know if you wish to attend. frauddetection2006@gmail.com, ray.hoag@1963.usna.com)Doug Davidson Inurement at USNA Columbarium on August 13 at 10:30am followed by a reception at the Annapolis Yacht Club.
Notify Spencer Johnson if you plan to attend wsjohnson63@gmail.com
Mel will be buried with full honors alongside his first wife Marilyn on July 11 at Arlington National Cemetery. ANC requests attendees to arrive by 10:15 AM.https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Funerals/Attending-a-Funeral
Following the ceremony, Mel and Marilyn's daughter Susan Mercer will host a reception at the Women's Memorial adjacent to the cemetery. For planning purposes, please let Susan or I know if you wish to attend.
Class of ‘63Due to the outpouring of love for our father we are moving his memorial to a larger location in Dewey Beach. It is two miles south of the previous Rehoboth location.
The new location address is 136 Dagsworthy street, Dewey beach, DE, the event space is called Ivy.
If any of you are considering attending and require a hotel room, we have a block of rooms available at Canalside Inn in Rehoboth.
The link below will take you to their reservation site. They do require a two night minimum. In addition to the 4 queen rooms still available, I have control over a suite with two king bed options (sitting room with murphy bed and separate room with king bed) and a standard king room. Please reach out to me directly for those.
https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/reservation/ENQmpU#promo=william
The room code for the block is William.
Lacey Davidson
(202) 841-5486
laceyhmd@yahoo.com
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963, Greetings from Annapolis. Spring is trying hard to make its presence felt here in Annapolis. Although the trees are in bloom, flowers evident in variety and color, the grass is growing at a phenomenal rate, and the Brigade of Midshipmen are now in summer whites, temperatures still retain a nip and some nights dip to freezing temperatures. It will take a week or more to say that winter is entirely over.William Douglas Davidson. Our classmate Doug Davidson passed away on 25 April, 2022. Doug was one of the "few good men" to enter the Marine Corps on graduation. He served multiple tours in Vietnam including one as aide to the senior commanding Marine general in country followed by a tour at Headquarters Marine Corps at Eight and Eye Streets.
A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life gathering is planned for 3PM, Saturday, May 21st at the new location address is 136 Dagsworthy street, Dewey beach, DE, the event space is called Ivy.
Doug's remains will be inurned in the Naval Academy Columbarium 10:30 to 11:00 on 11 August, with lunch afterward at the Annapolis Yacht Club. If you can make either event. please let me know by return e-mail (wsjohnson63@gmail.com) so we can get a good estimate of the number attending.
Around the Yard. The current Superintendent, VADM Sean Buck, USN, will be relieved sometime this summer His replacement has not as yet been announced. The present superintendent has superbly met every challenge head on including flooding in the yard, a cheating scandal, and the corona virus pandemic in all its forms. He deserves a hearty well done from us and all those associated with the Naval Academy.
In a recent talk to the Council of Class Presidents, VADM Buck noted the following:
Flooding at the Academy. There were 40 floods at the Academy between the 40's and the 70's. There were 40 floods in the 90's. In the past year alone there were another 40 floods. The Naval Academy is developing a plan in conjunction with the City of Annapolis to control and mitigate these floods. The Federal Government will be resposnible for necessary funding. The Columbarium will run out of space in the next two years or so and has experienced flooding on several occasions. The current joke is that only qualified submariners are now being placed on the bottom row of niches. The current plan intends to move the Columbarium onto higher ground in the cemetery and increase its size to allow use for another five to six years. There is also consideration being given to planning for a permanent location that will allow for an even larger facility.Cheating. The 80 Midshipmen (almost all Youngsters) who were involved in the physics exam cheating scandal in September have completed an extensive remediation program and have experienced no further difficulties.
Name Changes. The Federal Commission set up to determine what to do about changing names on Federal property of Confederate soldiers and sailors have completed their work, but have not released their results. At the Naval Academy there are three such renaming requirements : Buchanan House (the Superintendent's quarters), Buchanan Road (named for the first superintendent), and Maury Hall. As previously announced, the Naval Academy does not teach Critical Race Theory (CRT) and they have experienced no problems related to that.
The varsity sports teams have had a 95% graduation rate which is very high among colleges and universities. The Naval Academy ranks third among colleges and universities in the number of varsity sports offered. The men's and women's rugby teams were just added to that mix. The women's rugby team won the National Club championship. The captain of the team , Midn. Sarah Skinner, was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship and is a finalist for Woman Rugby Player of the Year. Prior to last weekend, Navy teams had a 20 to 2 win margin over Army. This past weekend, the women's lacrosse team beat number two seed Army to advance to the Patriot League lacrosse championships only to lose to Loyola.
Commissioning Week will soon be upon us. President Biden will address this year's graduating class on 27 May, and hand out diplomas and commissions.
I remember going on Youngster cruise sixty-two years ago next month. Along with about 300 classmates I found my way up the side of the USS Macon (CA32) for the summer. One bright morning at 0600, I found myself barefoot and manning my holy stone on the foredeck of the cruiser. I had the sleeves of my dungaree shirt rolled up. A very tall, immaculate, first class boatswain's mate with a perfect dixie cup and a large black braided and knotted lanyard for his bosn's pipe, appeared before me. He said, "You got any tattoos, son?" When I responded in the negative, he replied, "Then roll down your sleeves!"
That's All Folks! Stay safe. Covid is still with us,
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,Reunion Up Date. Please amend my previous Irish Pennants as follows:
The block of rooms for our reunion 19-22 October 2023 will be open for reservations one year ( 365days) prior to our reunion date. You can reserve a room beginning 19 October 2022 , but not before. Attempts to reserve a block room before that date will not be successful. Room rates quoted may change in the months ahead so consider them notional for now.
More will be forthcoming as reunion plans shape up in the months ahead
Sports. All Spring sports are doing well. A first classman on the women's basketball team has been named to the Associated Press listing of All Americans. This is a first for Navy and only the third time a Patriot League player has been selected as an All American.
A very Happy St. Patrick's Day to one all whether, of Irish ancestry or not. Erin go Bragh.
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,Additional Information. Below is some more information tied to Tuesday's Irish Pennants.
For those who have contributed to the Go Fund Me fund for Yvette Coester-Miller a thousand thanks for extending a life-line at this time of need. The site is https://gofund.me/601d578f.
Reunion Hotel Rooms. We have reserved a block of 100 rooms at the Doubletree Hotel here in Annapolis for our sixtieth reunion 19-22 October 2023.Rooms are not available to be booked until 350 days prior to the reunion. That is rooms may be reserved no earlier than November of 2022. Room rates are $249.00 per day. "Shoulder rooms" are available two days before the reunion and for the nights of the 22nd and 23rd for $169.00 per night. More information will follow as we get closer to our reunion dates.
Board of Visitors. Some have asked about the Board of Visitors. There are fifteen members of the Board which meets three times a year. Six members are appointed be the President, others by the Vice President, the Speaker of the House, the Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, and the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. The list of the six new members sent Tuesday are all new Presidential appointees. I know that Trump appointee Sean Spicer was asked to resign and when he didn't was removed. The members of the Board of Visitors report to the Secretary of Defense. They receive no compensation except costs of transportation to the meetings and per diem expenses.
Basketball. Navy lost the Patriot League Championship game against Colgate last night. The score wasn't even close. Navy has lost all three of its games with Colgate this year and Colgate remains the Patriot League champion team. Navy foregoes a trip to the NCAA March Madness tournament, but finishes a great season for the year.
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,The weather here in Annapolis is most unpredictable. It has been 70 degrees one day and thirty the next. Bright and sunny one day and sleet the next. The uniform order is "carry everything." Spring, however, is in the air.
Steve Coester has rendered a great service to us all in maintaining our class website these many years. His daughter, Yvette Coester-Miller herself a mother, is currently in a rehab facility after a more than sixty-day hospitalization that included several comas, time on a respirator and intubation among other things. Needless to say, hospital expenses have overwhelmed the family. Steve has set up a "Go Fund Me" site to help defray these costs. The site is https://gofund.me/601d578f. I encourage you to donate as generously as you can to this urgent need.
John Middleton'63 will be laid to rest here in the Columbarium at 10:30 on Friday, 8 April. Please mark your calendar and join the crowd if you can to pay last respects to John.
US Naval Academy Board of Visitors has six new members appointed by President Biden. Two of them are former commandants, all are Naval Academy graduates. The new members are:
Gen John R Allen, USMC (Ret)
Paul J. Angelo
Robert E. Clark, USN (Ret)
ADM Michelle J. Howard, USN (Ret)
Cmdr. John S. McCain, USN
Col. Amy McGrath, USMCThe new members replace those appointed by President Trump who were asked to resign after a review of all service academy board members conducted by the Secretary of Defense.
Byron Marchant, for the past thirteen years the President and CEO of the US Naval Academy Alumni Association, will step down at the end of this month. A search committee co-chaired by Ron Terwilliger '63 and ADM Mark Ferguson '78 is seeking his replacement now. We owe a great debt of thanks to Byron for all that he and the Alumni Association have accomplished under his inspired leadership over the past thirteen years. Generations of midshipmen and alumni are beneficiaries of Byron's great and tireless work. Well Done, Byron. Fair winds and following seas in all that lies ahead.
Craig Thrasher' 63 was honored on the 26th of February at a crew banquet in the N Room where a new annual award to the outstanding member of the crew team was announced. Certainly no one better emulates all the qualities of leadership, perseverance and dedication to winning than Craig does. His memory is now enshrined in this Naval Academy Athletic Association annual award.
Sports have gone extremely well, despite the restrictions covid has imposed.
Navy swept all but one Star competition against Army (women's basketball). Navy teams are now 13-1 against Army in the annual Star competition and are assured of winning the annual series competition no matter the outcome of games yet to be played. Navy prevailed in Rifle, indoor track, swimming and diving, men's basketball, and gymnastics. Navy wrestlers tied Army in knots this year.
The Brigade boxing championships, for the first time since 1963 when the Spadafora brothers fought on the same card, had two brothers contending for championship status. As this goes to press, the Navy men's basketball team is in the Patriot League championship playoffs for the first time in twenty years. Navy faces Colgate tomorrow night (CBS Sports 1930 EST) for the championship after defeating Boston University 85 to 80 in overtime play last night.
Sixtieth Reunion planning is underway. We will have the reunion here in Annapolis from 19 to 22 October 2023. We have reserved a block of rooms at the Double Tree Hotel , and will hold our class dinner in the same hotel. The football game will be against Air Force, with a catered class tailgate. More on the reunion planning will be forthcoming soon, but mark your calendars now for what will be a great weekend of "old tales be retold' and renewed camaraderie.
A dream I had the other night relates to our time together. You will recall that the Naval Academy barbershops were and still are one of the few places in the world where you get into the barber chair and never have to say a word, emerging pretty much as you were when you sat down. Upper class in my company had wooden chits for standing appointments every two weeks. Plebes went to the barber shop with the hope they could be squeezed in between appointments. In my dream, I had crossed my last river and was seated before the awesome Pearly Gates waiting for my entrance interview. The Gates swung ajar, and a very commanding voice was heard to say, "Next man without a chit". I knew that was me.
Ukraine. I ask your thoughts and prayers for all those fighting for their country, and/or are otherwise in peril in Ukraine. Their courage reminds us that freedom isn't free. We won the First Cold War and are now engaged in the Second, another reminder of why we have service academies.
Quality '63.
Spencer Johnson '63
On February 26th, at the annual Navy Crew Banquet held at the Banquet Facility at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the Academy will unveil a new perpetual award in honor of our deceased classmate Craig Thrasher. The plaque shown below with the image of Craig taken from a 1962 issue of Sports Illustrated will be permanently mounted in Hubbard Hall. Craig's wife Peggy and her immediate family will be hosted there by Navy Crew. I know that she would appreciate seeing some of Craig's classmates there. So it would be great if we had some "63 representation. Info on the Banquet and a link to buy tickets can be found by Clicking Here .
- January 20, 2022--Upcoming Memorial Ceremony for USNA '63 alumni Erwin Templin
I'm reaching to you to share news of an upcoming ceremony honoring a fallen USNA Class of 1963 graduate which I believe might be of interest to your alumni group. The USS Hornet Sea Air Space Museum in Alameda, CA recently completed an extensive restoration of a Grumman US-2B Tracker aircraft in their collection. To commemorate the ship's service during the Vietnam War and honor the sacrifices made by Hornet crewmembers, the museum has fittingly restored their Tracker in the markings of a Grumman S-2D Tracker from Anti-Submarine Squadron 35 (VS-35) that went missing, presumably due to hostile fire, in the Gulf of Tonkin early in the morning of 22 January 1966 while flying a surface reconnaissance mission from USS Hornet (CVS-12). Among the lost crewmen was LT(jg) Erwin B. Templin Jr. from the Class of 1963.The museum is planning to hold a memorial service and dedication ceremony for the restored aircraft to take place at 1300 on January 22, 2022, the 56th anniversary of the loss incident. I wanted to pass along this Facebook page listing the details of the event in hopes that classmates from Class of '63 in the Northern California area or beyond might wish to attend.
Click Here for the Facebook details. Best regards - and Go Navy, Beat Army!
Matt Robins
USNA Class of 2004- January 19, 2022--Steve Coester's Daughter
The daughter of our classmate Steve Coester has encountered a serious medical problem and does not have financial resources to support her treatment and recovery. Please read and consider the GoFundMe effort described at this link: https://gofund.me/316908b0. Even a small donation will help reach the fundraising goal. And if you can't make a donation, it would be great if you could share the fundraiser with others to help spread the word. Thank you!- January 18, 2022--Bob LaGassa Arlington Funeral
Bob was approved for an Arlington burial. It is set for Monday, June 13th at 11AM- January 11, 2022--Next DC Area Class Luncheon
The next luncheon has been pushed to February 10, 2022 as a precaution due to the current increase in COVID 19 cases.- December 30, 2021--Class of 1963 Death Statistics
With the passing of Bob LaGassa on December 29 The class of 1963 has now lost exactly one-third or 292 of our graduate classmates. Two-thirds remain. We are doing better than the national average for people born in 1941 where approximately half are still alive.- December 24, 2021--Robert Kottke's Wife's Obituary
Jan Thorpe Kottke (1945 - 2021) On October 26, 2021 Janet Thorpe Kottke passed away in her home on Maui surrounded by loved ones. Jan was born September 24, 1945 in Long Beach, CA. As the daughter of a Naval officer, she and her older brother Bill moved frequently throughout their childhood. Jan graduated from Punahou high school on Oahu in 1963 and from Stanford University in 1967. In 1969 she met and married Bob Kottke and the two have built a beautiful life and a loving family through 52 years of marriage.Together Jan and Bob raised three sons and built the Manor schools in Southeast Virginia. Jan's purpose in life was to teach, and over nearly four decades her schools taught more than 5,000 young minds how to read with the books she wrote and published herself. Over time, her students grew up and sent their own children to her schools to ensure they also fell in love with learning. Part of her legacy is this enduring institution that nurtures children and prepares them for the world.
Jan loved her golden retrievers and spoiled them unabashedly. She was an absolute snob about beaches and forced her children and ten grandchildren to experience some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Her love of cooking brought her family together for too many fabulous meals to count.
Jan was a force of nature. She set an expectation for her sons to learn, to live, and to leave the world a better place. As she has. We cherish the beautiful memories we have of her and will miss her dearly.
Jan is survived by her loving husband Robert Arthur Kottke Jr; three children Karl William (Tina) Kottke, Peter Arthur (Maggie) Kottke, Ben Thorpe Kottke; and her ten grandchildren BaeJin Alexander Kottke, BaeYoung Robert Kottke, Jackson Reese Kottke, Calvin DePaulo Kottke, Violet Amanda Kottke, Pearl Wilson Kottke, Maximillian Hengelbrok Kottke, Skylar Marie Kottke, Makena Belle Kottke, and Grayson Kai Kottke. She is preceded in death by her parents, William Lupo Thorpe Jr. and Kathleen Glancy Thorpe and her brother William Lupo Thorpe III.
Jan's family will hold a small private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charitable organization of your choice or to the Children's Literacy Initiative (live-childrens-literacy-initiative.pantheonsite.io), a charity dedicated to early childhood reading. Furthermore, given the number of lives she touched, the family has made a memorial website available to collect stories, pictures, and reflections (www.kudoboard.com/boards/zyScbzvL).
Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Oct. 31, 2021.
- December 21, 2021--Spencer's Christmas 2021 Irish Pennants
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,The yule log is burning in the fireplace, the tree is up and the greenery hung. The air is cold, but the warmth of the Christmas season pervades everything, assisted by the glow following a great win over Army in the Meadowlands two weeks ago. Exams are over and the Brigade is now on leave at home with family and loved ones.
Christmas leave 1959. I remember how excited I was our Plebe year, after our win over Army, at the prospect of Christmas leave and going home for the first time since induction into the Brigade of Midshipmen and the Navy.. The Christmas tree in the Rotunda, the performance of the Messiah in the chapel, and Christmas dinner in the mess hall all served to deliver a warm anticipation of going home.
When I arrived in Charleston, South Carolina, I discovered that I was in great demand (really my uniform was in great demand) as an escort for the debutante season. "The Season" began a week before Christmas and ran until New Year's Day, with a break only for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. I was to escort a different young lady each day of "the season". There were usually four events each day: the tea dance; the dinner; the ball; and the post- ball breakfast. The mothers of the debutantes spent a year planning the events and assuming responsibility for each of those events. Each mother bought three or so dresses for their daughter. During "The Season" they would congregate and trade dresses. This originated as a post Civil War economic measure that became a tradition, as well. I would call on Miss Suzie Q , whom I had never met before, as her escort for the evening only to discover when the door opened that the dress and I had been out together one or more times already. Only in Charleston!!
Christmas 2021. As we bask in the glow of family and friends, let us remember a horrifying pandemic year now drawing to a close with yet another wave of the pandemic upon us. Let us remember those who have left our ranks and now muster in a heavenly place They leave an empty place at the table and by the fire, but also leave great memories of their time with us as comrades- in- arms, husbands, fathers, and life long friends.
Let us also remember those at sea or in foreign climes who will not be home this Christmas. They stand the watch preserving freedom for us all.
From our house here in Annapolis, Andrea and I wish you and those in whose love you live a very happy holiday season and a joyous, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Stay safe. Stay well!
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
- December10, 2021--Spencer's Army-Navy Irish Pennants
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,ARMY-NAVY. It is clear and crisp here in Annapolis. Tomorrow promises to be unseasonably warm for the 122nd meeting between Army and Navy to be played in the Meadowlands in New Jersey (opposite New York). Navy's record this year is 3-8 and Army's is 8-3. That said, Navy's schedule has been significantly more difficult than Army's, and including good showings against nationally ranked teams like Cincinati, Houston, and Notre Dame. Navy lost to Air Force and Army beat Air Force, which means that no matter who wins tomorrow, the Commander-in-Chief's trophy will remain at West Point at least until next year.
Two weeks ago, Army attempted to steal Bill the Goat. As luck would have it, they stole the wrong goat. They got a long retired 18 year old Bill who now has only one horn. That engendered a flurry of reminders about the solemn pact arrived at in 1992 after Navy stole several Army mules that this would not happen again. For Army, the lesson is that Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaisance (ISR) is everything to mission success.
No matter their respective records this season, tomorrow's game can be expected to go down to the last whistle. Game time is 1500 and can be seen on CBS stations. Go Navy!! Beat Army!!!
AROUND THE YARD. Last week our class Vice President, Jim Ring, attended the semi-annual Council of Class Presidents meeting here in Annapolis. Several take aways from the Superintendent's remarks to the group assembled include:
There is a Commission set up to review all the items on Federal property that are dedicated to Confederate soldiers and sailors and decide what to do with them . We have three; West Point has over one hundred. Buchanan House, the Superintendent's quarters, and Buchanan Road were established in the 1970s. The other is Maury Hall. The Commission has visited the Academy already and will present its findings in October 2022. The Pentagon has until early 2024 to implement the recommendations made.
The Columbarium will run out of space for new additions in about two years. This, combined with the flooding problems here, are soon to be addressed. In a recent flooding, the Superintendent found the niche containing his parent's remains was under water. This problem has a high priority for him. Additional space will be added to the Columbarium, or it may be moved to another drier location.
Critical Race Theory (CRT) is not taught at the Naval Academy and there are no plans for it to be taught. The Superintendent is against teaching it.
In 2001, the Service Academies changed from being places of attrition as we experienced them, to ones in which every student is built as a leader and expected to complete the course. This was in response to the intensive selection process for each student. Our 63 Center for Academic Excellence fit perfectly into this scenario.
In September 2020, about 100 Youngsters were accused of cheating on a physics online exam. These Youngsters had just returned to the Academy after it had shut down in the Spring due to the pandemic. All went before Midshipman Honor Boards. Four were found "not guilty." Of the rest, eight or nine were expelled, primarily because this was their second honor offense and/or they had bad conduct records. The rest have been counseled and given demerits, restrictions and other punishments. All received an F in leadership which will affect their class standings. All of these have signed their 2 for 7 commitment, which means they will stay at the Academy for their remaining two years until graduation and then spend at least five years in their commissioning services.The other choice open to them was to leave before starting the second-class year with no cost to them for their education to date. Each Service Academy has similar policies and counseling routines with regard to first-time honor offenses. Each case is reviewed separately and a decision arrived at as to the best course of action to be taken.
The new Terwilliger Center for Student Athletes is really a beautiful place and should be high on your list of places to visit the next time you are in Annapolis.
Thoughts and Prayers. I ask your thoughts and prayers for our classmate Bob LaGassa who is hospiced, suffering from a cancer induced by ionizing radiation to which Bob was exposed in his long service in nuclear submarines.
Captain Joseph B. Clancy, USMC. On Wednesday 15 December at 1400, we will lay to rest the remains of Joe Clancy in the Naval Academy Columbarium. Please join us if you can to give Joe a good send off.
Army-Navy Games Past The most memorable Army-Navy game I remember, aside our 42-7 win over Army our Plebe year, occurred in 1961. We were in Philadelphia in the old Franklin Field stadium. Army marched on first then we did only to stand in the cold waiting for the game to start. About ten minutes before the coin toss starting game activities, the "word" went around the crowd that the new president and his first lady were going to attend the game. About that time you could hear the sirens coming. The gates at one end of the field opened and two Philadelphia motorcycle policemen, with lights flashing and sirens blaring, drove through. They were followed by a long, black, stretch limousine with flags on the fenders and four secret service members trotting alongside, followed by two more Philadelphia motorcycle police with lights flashing and sirens blaring. They drove right onto the field and stopped on the fifty yard line. At that moment you could hear a pin drop in the packed stadium. Everyone was leaning forward expecting to see Jack and Jackie Kennedy step out of the limousine. When the door opened, out stepped Bill the Goat. AND - we won the game!
Stay well and keep safe.
BEAT ARMY!!!!!
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson 63- November 20, 2021--Spencer's Thanksgiving Irish Pennants
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,It is bridgecoat weather here in Annapolis. Today's high is in the 40's with clear skies and brisk winds. Winter is here.
Football Tomorrow is our last home game against East Carolina University. They are favored by six points so it ought to be a well fought game. Kick off is scheduled for 1530. Our tailgate tent is up. We are not catering this tailgate. Already the smells of simmering chili and baking cornbread are in the air in readiness for tomorrow's gathering. Our tent will be struck after this game and stored until next season.
We will gather in the back room of the West End Grill at the corner of West Street and Solomons Island Road to watch the Army-Navy Game on 11 December. We will gather at 1330 for lunch before the 1500 kick off. Army beat Air Force and will retain the Commander-in- Chief's trophy with a win over Navy. We can't let that happen. If you are in the area join us on game day. More about this later.
Milo P. Daughters. The Naval Academy Foundation recently received a gift of one million dollars from Ross and Michele Annable of North Carolina to establish a long term fund which will provide about 5% a year of the fund for the support of the 63 Center of Academic Excellence ( 63CAE) each year. The Annable's only connection to the Academy is through our late classmate Milo Daughters. Ross served on a submarine and reported to Milo for over a year. He thought very highly of Milo's leadership. The Annables are interested in making the world more equitable and believe providing access to education is the best way to do that. The 63CAE does that, and it seemed a fitting tribute to Milo Daughters whose leadership Ross so admired. The new fund is the Captain Milo P. Daughters '63 Fund for the 63Center for Academic Excellence. The Annables have requested that Milo's name be listed in the six striper position on our class striper plaque instead of theirs. I will see to that, and a letter expressing our thanks to the Annables for their great generosity.
Joseph B. Clancy, Captain, US Marine Corps. After several delays, schedulings and postponements, the ashes of our classmate Joseph B. Clancy will be laid to rest in the Naval Academy Columbarium at 1400 on Wednesday, 15 December. If you can make it, please attend to give Joe a good send off.
Thanksgiving. In 1980 I commanded USS Bigelow (DD 942). We were in our homeport of Mayport, Florida, for Thanksgiving. I received a phone call from the wife of a first class electrician who was very upset that her husband had the duty on Thanksgiving and would miss all the wonderful things she had planned for a Thanksgiving feast at home. Could I please excuse him from the duty on Thanksgiving day. I told her I couldn't do that, but invited her to join me and my family onboard the ship for Thanksgiving dinner. She came. As usual the ship's cooks outdid themselves in preparing a Thanksgiving dinner of turkey with all the trimmings, ham, roast beef and at least three differant choices of pie. Several days later I received a thank you note from the young wife full of praise for what she had experienced! She said that "the shipboard dinner was far better than what she could have done at home. Again many thanks for including her onboard! P.S. Could I also arrange for her husband to have the duty on Christmas Day?"
As you gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, please take a moment to remember all those who are at sea or far from home and loved ones. They stand the watch that once we stood. We are grateful that they do for all of us. Their sacrifices should not go unremembered. or unthanked.
Beat East Carolina University !!!! Beat Army !!!!
Quality 63
Spencer Johnson '63- November 12, 2021--Reminder--Mike Cronin Funeral at Arlington
From Bob Forster:If you are not aware, Mike Cronin's Burial Service is on December 6th at 3pm at Arlington National Cemetery (photo identification required). Arrive 45 minutes early to Administrative building. Currently, masks are required inside in Washington DC. Also, mailed invitation states vaccinations required.This note from Jackie was posted several months ago - You can still reach out to her:
From Jackie: Letting everyone know the burial for Mike Cronin will be on December 6, 2021 at 3:00 pm at Arlington National Cemetery. The services are open to the public. I have a block of rooms reserved in Rockville for any out of town guests. The reception will be at DAR headquarters on 17th Street in Washington DC after the service. There will be valet parking. I will need to know who will be coming for nourishment.....that is cocktails and a buffet of food. Please email the mcronin.wheelsup@gmail.com so I can get the invitations out. If you would like to contact me, please use the email mcronin.wheelsup@gmail.com.
- October 19, 2021--Spencer's October 19 Irish Pennants
Dear Classmates, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1963,The weather has turned crisp here in Annapolis. The day's high is in the 60s, dipping at night into the high 40s. The trees are slowly beginning to turn. Fall is here.
Football. This is homecoming weekend and Navy faces number two ranked Cincinnati. The University of Cincinnati is a 271/2-point favorite. They are unbeaten so far this season having won six games including a win over Notre Dame. Game time is noon and will be televised on CBS sports channels. We will have our tailgate as usual in stadium spot 12A. It will be catered. The food will be delivered at 1430 with our annual homecoming party held at the conclusion of the game until it gets dark. Price of the catered meal is $25.00. Please make checks to "The Class of 1963" and remember to throw in a few extra dollars to offset the costs of erecting and storing our tent. If you come before game time, please bring your own refreshments before going into the game around noon.
The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Become the Looming Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large is the name of Harlan Ullman's latest book to be released on 14 December. Early rave reviews give the book very high praise for its content and its recommendations to better structure our response capabilities for future foreseen calamities.
One reviewer, ADM James Stavridis says:
"A must read that delivers both a dire warning and a range of remedial actions to face the looming existential danger of the new world MAD--Massive Attacks of Disruption. A pandemic, environmental disasters, cyber-attacks, economic shocks, and other major disruptions are no longer isolated events, but repetitive challenges. Dr. Harlan Ullman lays out both the problem and responses in crisp, understandable prose that will appeal to policy makers and citizens alike."
I have ordered my pre-publication copy through Amazon.com.
Homecoming Thoughts. While still a midshipman, I was introduced by a mutual friend to Mrs. Inez Kidd, the widow of Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, who was a battleship division commander at Pearl Harbor and was killed on the bridge of his flagship, The USS Arizona, on 7 December 1941. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions that day. Mrs. Kidd and I became friends. In later years, if you returned to Annapolis, signed into the guest book in Alumni House and did not cross the street to see her at her town house residence, you might receive a post card reminding you to do so on all future visits. She and her grandson, Christopher, came to my wedding in the Chapel even years after graduation.
Mrs. Kidd remarked to me one day that she loved living in Annapolis. "Those midshipmen never look one day older and neither do I"
Although living in Annapolis these past twenty years, I have not been so lucky and the years are quickly catching up with me. But she was right in that we are not really getting older. We are still the midshipmen we were close to six decades ago. We haven't changed that much over the years. I am very grateful for that.
Whether you are in Annapolis for this homecoming weekend or at some distance, Welcome Home!
Beat Cincinnati, Beat Army !!!
Quality '63
Spencer Johnson '63
- October 14, 2021--Next D.C Area Class Luncheon Nov.11 at 1130
- October 8, 2021--Spencer's October 8 Irish Pennants
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,We are enjoying an Indian Summer here in Annapolis. The days are in the 70s and the evenings cool in the lower 60s. The parade season is well underway.
The fourth of six home football games will be played tomorrow against Southern Methodist University (SMU), a fifteen point favorite to win. Last week we saw a different Navy team that upset the University of Central Florida. 34-30. UCF was a 15 1/2 point favorite at game time. That gives great hope that tomorrow's game will go the same way.
A reminder that on Thursday morning the 14th at 1030 LCOL. Joel Gardner USMA (Ret) and his wife Beth will inurned at the USNA Columbarium. Full military honors will be rendered. A reception follows at the Naval Academy Club. Please make every effort to attend. Let their daughter Ellen, USNA '89, know if you plan to attend the reception. She can be reached at: ellen89navy@gmail.com. I look forward to seeing you there.
The Link in the Chain Our classmate Butch Whitworth, a Marine, passed away on 17 August 2021 at Corpus Christi, Texas. The recipient of his Mameluke Sword in the Link in the Chain sword donations to the members of the class of 2013, Capt. (Major select) Tony Paruso, USMC '13 decided to attend his September 10th internment and presented the colors to his next of kin. Seventeen members of the 17th company underwrote all her expenses and commissioned her as their official emissary to Butch's Final Formation. She accomplished her mission in an exemplary fashion, as reported by one member of the 17th company. Thereafter, she recounted the event in writing and included pictures and an MP4 show. The result was a groundswell proposal in the ranks of the 17th company to make her an honorary member of their goup. This is an outstanding example of the bonds we forged and share with the Class of 2013, our Link in the Chain Class. In many respects, they are our legacy.
That's all for this edition of Irish Pennants. Stay well!
Beat SMU! Beat Army!!
Quality '63.
Spencer Johnson '63
- September 27, 2021--Spencer's September 27 Irish Pennants
Ahoy Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963!Fall weather has descended on Annapolis. The days are sunny and clear with temperatures in the low seventies, and the evenings are appropriately cool. Perfect football weather.
With a better showing against Houston on Saturday, hopes are running high for a win over Central Florida University (CFU). Class Tailgating. We will only cater this year’s homecoming game, 23 October. For all other home games, please bring your own provisions and perhaps some to share. The homecoming game starts at noon and runs to three PM. I will arrange to have the food delivered around 1430. The party will be after the game is over rather than before. We have four remaining home games before we fold our tent for the season. See you there.
Sixtieth Reunion. Please mark your calendars for 19-22 October 2023. That is our sixtieth reunion here in Annapolis. We will try to have as many events in our headquarters hotel to minimize travel for many of us that are more and more mobility challenged. We will attend the Navy-Air Force game that weekend. More in the coming months as plans develop.
Taps On 14 October at 1030 we will lay the remains of our former Class President, LtCol Joel Gardner, USMC (Ret), and his wife Beth to rest in the Naval Academy Columbarium. We would as large a class turnout as possible. A reception at the Officer’s and Faculty Club follows the ceremony. If you can make this event, please RSVP to their daughter Ellen, Class of 1989, at ellengardner89navy@gmail.com.
Who Are Those Ladies? When we were midshipmen, there was a group of older ladies who seemed to attend everything in the yard. They attended chapel as a group with their hats, gloves and handbags. They attended all the musical club shows, and other events like the Messiah. I asked one day who they were and was told that they were all widows who’s husbands were in the Class of 1907. When their husbands died, rather than live with their children, they decided to live together in a house a short walk from Gate Three. After all they spent their careers together in various naval stations and ports. They looked after each other. Where else could this have happened except at USNA?
Beat UCF!! Beat Army!!!! Quality ‘63
Spencer Johnson
- September 17, 2021-Wreaths Across America
Dear Class Representatives and Friends of USNAI humbly request you distribute the following information to your class members and chapters. Thank you for doing this in advance.
It’s that time of year I start asking for sponsorship for the Wreaths Across America (WAA) at the USNA cemetery.
Nine years ago we started WAA at USNA at the request of a gold star Mom and Dad. We started out slow the first two years, but for the last 7 years, thanks to your generosity, we have been able to lay a remembrance wreath for each head stone and the entire columbarium during the wreath laying ceremony in December.
The wreaths are donated by each of you and I truly appreciate your kindness. Every year I hear stories from roommates who want to honor that bond formed so many years ago, grandchildren that can’t be here but want to honor their grandparents, and gold star families who lost a loved one way too soon. They are so grateful that we can do this to honor and remember the special person they knew and loved.
The ceremony will be Friday December 10, 2021 TTD. ( probably about 0900) This is the day before the Army Navy game. At this point we are unsure of the complete details, due to Covid, and will wait until closer to the date to see what USNA will permit for attendance. We are hoping that things will be open and that we will be allowed to have as many as would like to attend to lay the wreaths.
Directions to donate are as follows: Go to:
-WreathsacrossAmerica.org/md0011
-Scroll down to “Sponsor Wreaths”
The site will then guide you to check out.
By going to this site for every two sold, the USNA cemetery will receive one wreath for free.Please donate, we are looking for 2700 wreaths this year. The class of 1981 is once again sponsoring this effort and if you would like to check on the validity of this cause please feel free to contact the class of 81’s president, James “Otto” Stutz, CDR (Ret.) at otto@1981.usna.com or via cell at 757-618-4487.
You can always contact me with any questions.
Thank you for your support.
Carol Turman
Coordinator Wreaths Across America USNA
2430 Kemper Rd
Crofton, MD 21114
H-410-451-4490
C-443-336-6541
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- September 12, 2021--Navy-UCF tickets
Ian Sargent has tickets, 50 yard line Upper Blue. Parking pass also possible. Sell at cost (season ticket holder). If you have any interest in tickets for any games further down the road. I may be able to find some. ianhsargent@gmail.com- August 30, 2021--Wyatt Whitworth Internment Service
A graveside memorial service will be held September 10, 2021 at 11 am at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Tx with full Honors.- August 27, 2021--Spencer's August 27 Irish Pennants
Dear Classmates, Family and Friends of the Class of 1963,The Brigade is reformed, Classes started on Monday. All midshipmen are once again housed in Bancroft Hall. The new academic year is under weigh.
It was announced this week that the December 2020 Physics exam cheating scandal has been brought to a close, with one case yet to be adjudicated. Over 100 youngsters were suspected of using unauthorized web sites and other outside assistance to complete their exam submissions. Due to Covid 19 provisions, the exam was administered on line. Six midshipmen have been dismissed. Six more have resigned. Eighty-one have been assigned to five months of an honor concept remediation program, as well as appropriate disciplinary measures. The Superintendent intends a further review of the honor concept to better facilitate understanding and compliance with its tenets.
Please let me know, if you have not already, whether you intend to attend the first home football game against Marshall University on 4 September. I have to get a count to our caterer on Monday of next week. The food will be delivered at 1230. The game begins at !500. The price for the catered food is $25.00 per head. Please make checks out to 'The Class of 1963" and add an additional $10 or$15 to help defray costs of putting up and striking our tent. The COVID rules require the wearing of masks by all unvaccinated persons. Six feet distancing is in effect. Masks must be worn in all enclosed spaces in the stadium, including restroom facilities, so bring a mask. See you at the game. Beat Marshall!
Beating Army. In February 1971 I was in graduate school at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University on the outskirts of Boston. My wife and I received an invitation to join the West Point Association of Graduates for West Point Night at the Boston Pops. The engraved RSVP card asked if there were any requests for the concert. I put down Richard Rogers symphony Victory at Sea. On the snowy evening of the concert, Arthur Fiedler opened the concert with Victory at Sea. I went home thinking that there was more than one way to Beat Army!
Beat Air Force and Beat Army!!!
- August 23, 2021--D.C Area Class Luncheon
The luncheon is scheduled for 11:30am Wednesday, Sep 8th at the Army Navy Country Club. The cost will be $30.00 which includes tax, coffee and water. Drinks (wine, beer, sodas) are extraTwo Caveats: Wear a mask in entering the club and only 12 are allowed. That means we have to get a head count up front - first come first serve. Bob will publish an attendee list as we get close to 12 attendees. Priority will be the DTG on your email. "I think I can make it" and "Maybe" will not count.
Please RSVP to Bob. bforster5@verizon.net or Jim at jep.ring@gmail.com.
- August 18, 2021--Mike Cronin Funeral at Arlington
From Jackie: Letting everyone know the burial for Mike Cronin will be on December 6, 2021 at 3:00 pm at Arlington National Cemetery. The services are open to the public. I have a block of rooms reserved in Rockville for any out of town guests. The reception will be at DAR headquarters on 17th Street in Washington DC after the service. There will be valet parking. I will need to know who will be coming for nourishment.....that is cocktails and a buffet of food. Please email the mcronin.wheelsup@gmail.com so I can get the invitations out. If you would like to contact me, please use the email mcronin.wheelsup@gmail.com.