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The following comments were made from January 6, 2006 to December 28, 2006.

Name:

Al Overby

Email:

al1over@earthlink.net

Date:

Thursday, 28. December 2006

Comments

Hello Dom and all your friends!  I did not place who you were until I got into the log. You had the only job that might have made me a "lifer". Instead, I used the FT A school as a basis for my work after I got out of the navy. It served me well - 32 yr's with IBM. Today I spend my time "doing" videos for my church library. Back to you - do you remember a "beauty contest" in '56. I was "Miss De'Boat" I think. I would love to see what you shot that night and to hear from any of the FA Div. folks from our days aboard. And - tell Lil thanks for all her work 'cause I think she carries a lot of the load. Al Overby - in NC

Comments from Dom: Hi Al, sorry to say I left the ship in June of 1956, you came aboard on Sept. 7, 1956.  I wish I was there for that show. Have you checked out photo #1079 in"1950's Page 10"?, was that the same show?  If you have any pictures from that show, please send me copies and I will post them on our site.  YES I did have a very good job aboard our ship and I wish I had shipped over.   Looks like you did well in life.  You are correct, Lil does carry a very large portion of the load.

Name:

Dawn Kragness

Email:

tdclarin@hotmail.com

Date:

Wednesday, 27. December 2006

Comments

Does anyone remember my uncle, Julian Kragness. He served during World War II. I know he was aboard at the end of the war.

Comments from Dom: Hi Dawn, your uncle, S2c Kragness, reported aboard on June 30, 1945 and was transferred to the USS Lowry on Oct. 1, 1945.

Name:

Mike Loomis

Email:

cmjloomis@hotmail.com

Date:

Saturday, 23. December 2006

Comments

WOW, Have not thought about this ship in along time and then on pg 5 80's-90's picture 547 is me and Theodore Hilton. I'm the nozzle man. Served aboard her during 87'-91'. Some of the greatest memories of my life. And some of the most influential people in my Life.. Hello to all From EMO4, would love hearing from any of you? cell# 208-640-9304 hm# 208 746 0465. Anyone can get me into contact with Phillp Bradac MMC then that would be great.

Comments from Dom: Hi Mike, glad you found us.  I have captioned photo #547 with the information you provided, thank you. This same photo is in our 2007-2008 calendar. It was the photo used for November 2008. We give our dues paying members a two year calendar consisting of 24 pages of photos depicting life aboard our ship. Calendars are issued every two years.  We hope you will join our Wisconsin family.

Name:

Angel May

Email:

poohbear2131@yahoo.com

Date:

Friday, 22. December 2006

Comments

I just wanted to say that the Wisconsin is a truly amazing ship. My husband who has been in the Navy 7 years did his reenlistment today 22 Dec 2006 aboard the ship. It was truly an honor for me to be standing on a piece of naval history as my husband reenlisted.

Comments from Dom: I'm glad the ship got into your system, now you know the feeling we had (and still have) when we served aboard her.  Thanks to your husband for serving our country and good luck to him in his naval career.
 

Name:

Dr. S. James Whitman

Email:

dr.whitman@gmail.com

Date:

Saturday, 16. December 2006

Comments

Visited the magnificent U.S.S. Wisconsin for the first time today. I am retired USAF (Navy first then 20 years in the AF) living in Guayaquil, Ecuador. I brought my son to Norfolk for a taste of my Navy after visiting Fort Bragg for a taste of his grandfather's 82nd Airborne. Wonderful experience on the Wisconsin--and surprise, the Big E was in port too. Great time going through your website-great pictures.

Comments from Dom: Thanks Dr. Whitman for your interesting military history. I hope your son enjoyed his visit to Fort Bragg and the Wisconsin. Glad you enjoyed our website and thanks for the compliment.

Name:

Sam Robinson

Email:

srobinson@waunakee.k12.wi.us

Date:

Monday, 11. December 2006

Comments

Our band will be performing "Pride of the Fleet" this Thursday, December 14 at the Waunakee High School Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. The piece was written for the U.S.S. Wisconsin after being retired from active status. Any Madison, Wisconsin area crew members are cordially invited to our concert to hear a great march dedicated to your great ship!! Sam Robinson, Waunakee High School Band

Comments from Dom: Thanks for the information, I will send out a notice to our members in your area.
 

 

Name:

Tracy Stinnett BM2 6th DIV

Email:

tracystinnett@yahoo.com

Date:

Thursday, 07. December 2006

Comments

I was aboard 88-90. Looking for any shipmates. Anyone heard from Whiskey Bill from a-gang I think?

Comments from Dom: Hi Tracy, hope someone answers you.
 

Name:

David

Email:

holmesdl@yahoo.com

Date:

Tuesday, 05. December 2006

Comments

Hi, I love the website! My Grandfather, Michael F. Cassel served as a LT. on the Wisconsin during World War Two. I have his scrapbooks that include issues of the ships newsletters (ships newspaper?), menus and invitations for special meals (victory meal, holiday meal), newspaper clippings, and other similar items. I also have nice professional photos of the ship, and some group photos (some just officers, some both officer and enlisted). I am working on making digital copies of everything and am more than willing to e-mail copies to anyone who is interested. If anyone knew my Grandfather or knows anything about his service about the Wisconsin, I would love to hear from you.

Comments from Dom: Hi David, Wow!!, what a collection you have, very interesting.  That is very nice of you to offer e-mail copies of your collection, just for the asking.  I am interested in what you have, I will e-mail you later.

Name:

Ron Wetmore

Email:

rgjewetmore@cableone.net

Date:

Monday, 04. December 2006

Comments

I just found your website and haven't reviewed all the information yet. But was going through some of my dad, Wesley E. Wetmore, things and found out he was a main deck plank owner. Dad was a CGM 4th Division and worked on the starboard Secondary Battery. Looks like he was on-board from April 1944-March 1946. Dad transferred from the USS Tennessee and was a Pearl Harbor survivor. My question. Is there an official list somewhere of Plank owners? Also I have about 25 "On Wisconsin" and a few "The Badger" daily papers that were obviously published on-board. They highlight different "men of the day" and current war activities. Thanks and this looks like a pretty cool website. Ron Wetmore.

Comments from Dom: Hi Ron, glad you found our website.  We do not have a list of all the 1940's plank owners, however you can click on the "Crewmembers" button at the top of this page, go into the 1940's lists and check out the names of our association members  that have two red stars after their names, they were plank owners.  There seems to be a good number of 4th Division names there. The ones in blue and underlined have an e-mail address. 
Looks like your Dad had a nice collection of ships memorabilia.

Name:

McDonald,H, T, 3 rd Div . 53 to 56

Email:

bigmac1532@insightbb.com

Date:

Saturday, 02. December 2006

Comments

50 Years ago in May 15 1956, I left the Wisky and remember looking back at the gaping hole in her bow. I was laying in my bunk when all of a sudden there was a tremendous thud and almost knocked me out of bed. The scare didn't last to long because I was on the damage control party ,so I grabbed my fire extinguisher and headed toward the bow. And to my amazement all I could see was a buckled deck and a small ship that was almost cut in half. That memory still hangs in my mind to this day, as I'm sure it does to many others too. Good memories linger also. I've not been back to see her as yet but I hope before I get to the stage in my life that I am not able to travel anymore I get the chance to go aboard her decks again.  Dom You guys are doing a great job keep up the good work MAC.

Comments from Dom: Hi Mac, how well I remember that collision also. I was also in my rack in the photo lab when we hit the USS Eaton.  I grabbed a camera some film and ran to the bow. I could not believe what I saw. As you stated, this is something that never leaves your mind.    Hang in there Mac, our 2008 reunion will be in Norfolk and we will be allowed inside the ship.

Name:

William Staples

Email:

jujubug2010@aol.com

Date:

Thursday, 23. November 2006

Comments

I would like anyone to respond that knew Howard R. Staples that served as an electrician on the USS Wisconsin during the last year of WWII. Thank you!

Comments from Dom: Hi William, your Dad was an F1c and served aboard from May 12, 1945 to April 1, 1946
I hope you hear from his former shipmates.

Name:

Roger & Kathy Musack

Email:

kathy.musack@aurora.org   

Date:

Monday, 06. November 2006

Comments

Roger (who is a member of your association) and I had the chance to visit BB-64 on October 17th. Being from Wisconsin, we were thrilled to see our "namesake". We spent hours walking on the deck, touring the Nauticus and taking a boat tour of the naval area. Unfortunately, the weather was a bit uncooperative and parts of the ship were roped off for safety reasons. We were told that normally people are allowed to go up a level from the deck but this too was off limits for some reason. Despite our disappointment of that, we were truly excited to spend time on our beloved Wisky!!

Comments from Dom: Glad you enjoyed your visit to our beautiful ship. At least you were able to see some of the ship in spite of the bad weather. I hope when you walked past her massive 16" guns, that you felt the power she possess.
 

 

Name:

The band from Wisconsin

Email:

brittni_burton69@yahoo.com

 

Date:

Friday, 20. October 2006

Comments

We are thrilled to be playing on the USS Wisconsin. Janesville Wisconsin Parker Band

Comments from Dom: Hope you enjoy your visit to the Wisconsin.

 

Name:

Stuart Naylor

Email:

stuartnaylor500@hotmail.com

Date:

Wednesday, 18. October 2006

Comments

This is a great web site. I was in the US Air Force and I can remember the sound of navel fire going over the air base at Nha Trang Vietnam. We could see the flashes down range and knew that the Navy was putting a serious hurt on the enemy down there. I am impressed with the way the history of the Wisconsin has been preserved. My wife and I were recently in Norfolk and the sight of the Wisconsin docked next to Nauticus was inspiring. My daughter is married to a Petty Officer First Class who is stationed in Norfolk and he has given me an up close and personal look at some Navy equipment and it is very impressive. The people who run this web site are to be commended for their preservation of the history of this great ship. I look forward to going aboard and taking the tour the next time we go to Norfolk.

Comments from Dom: Hi Stuart, thanks for your comments about our web site. Better yet, thanks for your comments about our SHIP. We love this ship and when we served in her we felt safe and secure. Now it our turn to make her feel safe and secure.

Name:

Marty

Email:

mmeison@aol.com

Date:

Saturday, 14. October 2006

Comments

I saw the Wisconsin while she was in mothballs up in the Philadelphia Navy yard and it was a sad sight indeed. I could hardly believe that the ship my father talked about serving on during World War II could be in such disrepair. I visited the USS Wisconsin today in Norfolk VA, and I'd just like to say thank you for erasing the previous memory. BTW I'm sending your URL and pics of the Wisconsin to my father.

Comments from Dom: Hi Marty, yes the Wisconsin was in sad shape while in the yards for 28 years. She does look beautiful now and we were promised she would never look bad again.
You didn't mention your Dad's name, is he a member of our Association?  If not how about signing him up as a member of our Wisconsin family. Just click on the Membership button at the top of this page and you will find information on how to join.

Name:

Beverly J. Gunther

Email:

bgunther@crosslink.net

Date:

Friday, 13. October 2006

Comments

Dear Dom & Lil: I wish to commend you both as well as those men who participated in the Memorial Service, it was as you promised - a beautiful service, one that I will never forget. I felt it honored my John beyond my expectations and I was a very proud wife to have been able to witness and join in this fine tradition. I felt like I could relax now; because everything my beloved John asked me to perform (his last wishes) were completed with that wonderful Memorial Service. I went back to my hotel so relieved, knowing my John was honored with those other distinguished Sailors/Marines, he loved his ship and shipmates more than he could articulate and I felt the Angels/Souls of those departed men around the room - the service truly transformed the Ballroom into a very somber & holy place and I felt so lighthearted when I left as if those Angels/souls released something to us that made me feel so good and I was suddenly lifted into a place that was very holy. It's hard to describe, I know -- but after the ceremony I was so uplifted, so free -- everything John wished for was completed and I do thank the Chaplain and I thank you and Lil for helping me get to the Reunion and see such a very cherished Memorial to our brave men. You and Lil are to be commended for putting on such a terrific Reunion. I am looking forward to the 2008 Reunion in Norfolk, Virginia, especially to be able to see John's beloved ship again. All my love to you both, Beverly J. Gunther [John A. Gunther, deceased, 1945-1947]

Comments from Dom: Hi Beverly, we are happy to hear that you were so touched by our Memorial Service. Our Sergeant-at-Arms, Bill Lewis and our Chaplain, Deacon Bob Simpson, are the two people really responsible for organizing and presenting our Memorial Service.  They seem to improve it a little more each year and deserve all the praise for their work. Between Bill and Bob they make sure that all of our departed shipmates and or wives, have a special part in our reunion.  All of our reunion attendees treat our Memorial Service with dignity and respect.
We look forward to seeing you at our reunion in Norfolk in 2008. 

          Brittany

Email:
 

brittany_burton67@yahoo.com

Date:

Friday, 06. October 2006

Comments

I am a teenager from Janesville Wisconsin and I attend Parker High School. I am thrilled about coming to see and play on the USS Wisconsin in April of 2007. This trip will be most definitely the best and most educational trip I have ever gone on. Thanks for letting us come and view and play on the USS Wisconsin.

Comments from Dom: Hi Brittany, you sound very excited about your trip to see the Battleship Wisconsin next April.
You will enjoy the ship and Nauticus The Maritime Center,  which has has many items of interest.
Your "Thanks" should be directed to Nauticus, since they are the ones hosting your visit. I will forward a copy of this Deck Log entry to them and I am  sure you will receive an email from them.

Name:

Kat

Email:

kathryn.harris@leitnerfirm.com   

Date:

Thursday, 05. October 2006

Comments

My father retired from this ship, Chief Signalman Phil Tony Cain.  I believe it was 89 & I was wondering how to find out about the reunions for him. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!

Comments from Dom: Hi Kat, our Association holds a reunion every two years. We had one this past September in Charleston, SC.  Our 2008 reunion will be in Norfolk, VA. Information on our 2008 reunion will be posted on our website in late 2007 or early 2008.   If your Dad would like to join our Association, he can download an application from our website.

Name:

ADC(AW) JOHN DAVIS

Email:

jbmaria1@netzero.net

Date:

Monday, 25. September 2006

Comments

Last month we did the annual CPO selectee trip to the USS WISCONSIN and had a awesome tour. We had lots of photos taken and were told that they would be on this site. I can not find them, could you tell where to find them or put a link to them. Thank You ADC(AW) JOHN R. DAVIS VFA-105 "GUNSLINGERS"

Comments from Dom: Sorry John, no one has sent me any photos of the CPO selectee's touring the Wisconsin.
I have never received photos of these tours.  Perhaps they meant The Hampton Roads Naval Museum website
If you find out where they are, please let me know.

Name:

Lorraine Hodgens

Email:

Scrabbler2@verizon.net

Date:

Wednesday, 20. September 2006

Comments

HI I'M interested to know if the Wisconsin is still open for tours. My husband Howard (Buddy) served aboard the battleship from 1950-1953. He was in A Division. I have his Anniversary Edition 1951-1952. It's interesting to see all the places he's been. He was very proud of his service in the Navy eight & 1/2 years. He passed away in 1996 after a 2 year struggle with Lou Gehrig's Disease. It would be so great to visit the ship and see where he served. Thanks, Lorraine

Comments from Dom: Hi Lorraine, the ship is open for tours of the main deck and three decks above. The ship is not open for internal tours. 

Name:

Julie Hill

Email:

soapplepie@aol.com

Date:

Monday, 18. September 2006

Comments

My Grandfather, Donovan Truluck, Plank owner (I have to get that in there for him) served on this wonderful BB-64 during WWII. He is so proud of his time served on this beauty. My Husband (USCG) and I recently took time to visit the ship in Norfolk, and wow, I was truly amazed at the size. It was really neat to actually be on the ship, that my Grandfather called home for 2 long years. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to visit it, and for giving me that connection with my wonderful Grandfather. He has told me so many things about it...like "if you put your feet up on the chains, than the poor guy who was stuck holding the bucket of sand well, he would hand it on over to you to hold the darned bucket of sand then you'd be stuck with it until you saw the next sucker with his feet up on the chains....." Very funny stories I hear. I hope that they continue for quite some time. Thanks again!!!

Comments from Dom: Hi Julie, thanks for writing in our Deck Log. I had the pleasure of meeting your Grandfather at our 1998 reunion. We had a few good conversations about our ship.
 

Name:

Patrick Le Bihan

Email:

atlantic.shipping@wanadoo.fr  

Date:

Saturday, 16. September 2006

Comments

I am 62 years old, living close to Brest, France , and for me the BB 64 had been of a huge importance in my life, career choice. I will reverts soon when my job will give me a little more time to give with more details in order to explain what is for me the BB 64. Remember that the BB 64 had made 2 calls in Brest. Regards Patrick Le Bihan

Comments from Dom: Hi Patrick, thanks for visiting our site. I was on the ship for the second trip to Brest, France.

Name:

Roy Strausbaugh

Email:

MSTRAUSBAUGH1@neo.rr.com

Date:

Sunday, 10. September 2006

Comments

Hello to all my shipmates, Just got home from the reunion in Charleston. Thanks to all who do the work! Tears and smiles, remembering all those with whom I served. Those of us in the band in the 50s are determined to double our numbers at the reunion in Norfolk. Can we somehow sort our members by location? Dom, a Navy "Well Done" for the website and a "Well Done" for all those who made the Charleston reunion so successful. Roy Strausbaugh, Erie, PA, Wisconsin Band

Comments from Dom: Hi Roy, I'm sure the Reunion committee appreciates your thanks and yes it was a successful reunion. It would be great if the other Divisions can also double their numbers for the next reunion.
 

Name:

Mike Rourke

Email:

cm.rourke@bmts.com      

Date:

Thursday, 07. September 2006

Comments

I was wondering if all the Iowa Class ships are being let go by the navy. It seems a shame to see these majestic warriors be put to pasture. With the world the way it is lately I believe they show the strength and resolve of the USA.

Comments from Dom: Two have, The USS New Jersey BB-62 is a Memorial in Camden, New Jersey and the USS Missouri BB-63 is a Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Name:

EM2 Dantzler

Email:

kdantzler5@comcast.net

Date:

Sunday, 20. August 2006

Comments

Hello everyone (88-91).. I was looking at the ribbons in the award area of this website. When did we receive a battle E ribbon? I am drilling reservist and would love to put it on only if I can verify (proper paper work) that we have this ribbon. Thanks, EM2 Dantzler

Comments from Dom: Sorry, but this has never been authenticated. Some of the crew members had informed me that they received the ribbon and that it is on their discharge papers (DD214). Others have said they did not receive this ribbon. I copied this board from the one that is on our ship now.

Name:

Daniel Kwiatkowski

Email:

dannyanderin@charter.net

Date:

Friday, 11. August 2006

Comments

Hello everyone. I was a crew member from 1988-1989 down in Pascagoula. I am interested in getting into contact with people that I served aboard with or was in boot camp with. I was in the USS Wisconsin boot camp in Great Lakes. I am especially trying to contact George Aldrich. If anyone has any contact info for him. please let me know. Thanks

Comments from Dom: Hi Daniel, I hope someone answers you.  Have you given any thoughts about joining our Wisconsin family? We would sure like to have you as a member.  We need more 1980's / 1990's former crewmembers to keep this association going.

Name:

McDonald,H.T. 3rd Div. 53 to 56

Email:

bigmac1532@insightbb.com

Date:

Thursday, 10. August 2006

Comments

Hey Guys ,Just wanted to let you all know that I am still among the living and doing well It's been just over 50 years since I left the Wisky, and there is not a day that goes by that I don't look back on those days aboard Her . She was a majestic ship and I was very proud to have been a part of Her history. I think of the friends I made and some I have found and some not ,but I am still looking. Have a great day. MAC

Comments from Dom: Hi Mac, you said it all.  June19th made it 50 years that I left the ship and I was discharged on June21st.

Name:

Roy Strausbaugh

Email:

MSTRAUSBAUGH1@neo.rr.com

Date:

Monday, 24. July 2006

Comments

Am looking forward to the reunion in Charleston, my first. Served in Wisconsin 1955 some of 1956. I was first in fire control main batteries and then in the band (ex division). I remember well the "Middie" cruise to Scotland, Denmark and to Gitmo. It certainly influenced my life. I wound up as a European historian. I remember asking what "Scotch" was at my first visit to a pub in Edinburgh. Do not remember the liberty boat ride back. See you all there - am heavier and gray hair. Roy

Comments from Dom: From one EX Division crewmember ( I was one of the ship's photographers from April 1953 to June 1956) to another, welcome Roy. Glad you will be attending this years reunion. We have a few EX Div. crewmembers signed up for this reunion.  See you in September.

Name:

bob mitchell

Email:

redsford@telus.net

Date:

Saturday, 15. July 2006

Comments

with the current world unrest I believe the Iowa's should be reactivated.

Comments from Dom: Bob, that would be fantastic.

Name:

William Myers

Email:

williamjmye@msn.com

Date:

Wednesday, 12. July 2006

Comments

I am a battleship sailor from the New Jersey 68-69 during Vietnam. I served in E Division. You have a beautiful web site. Keep up the good work perpetuating the memory and history of the Battleship.

Comments from Dom: Thanks for your comments and checking us out. 

Name:

Troy Spring

Email:

troydspring@hotmail.com

Date:

Tuesday, 11. July 200

Comment
I really enjoyed your site - while I have not served in the military, I have great admiration for the men and women that have served our great country. I recently toured the North Carolina in Wilmington and it has really sparked my interest in learning more about battleships. Is the Wisconsin open for tours?

Comments from Dom: Hi Troy, thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoyed our site. At the present time the Wisconsin is open to the public free of charge but you can only walk her main deck and three decks above. As soon as the ship is fully released by the Navy then preparations will be started to open the ship to the public. Hopefully this will be soon.  They do have some portholes and half glass doors that you can look through to see the inside of the ship.
 

Name:

CALVIN FLETCHER

Email:

cohoma_cal@yahoo.com

Date:

Thursday, 06. July 2006

Comments
I am a battleship sailor from the crew of the NEW JERSEY west pact 86 a-division

Comments from Dom: Hi Calvin, welcome to our site. Hope you enjoyed your visit, please visit us again.
 

Name:

Jonathan "War-Dog" Warford

Email:

sniper-x@swfla.rr.com

Date:

Saturday, 01. July 2006

Comments

It's been a while since I signed the log. But I wanted to drop in and say hello to all my shipmates. I served 88 to 91 in 6th and 4th Division. Those few years are still the most remembered in my life. I went on to serve 5 more years and still love the fact that I am, and will always be, a Battleship Sailor!

Comments from Dom: I know the feeling, I left the ship 50 years ago and I am still proud that I was and still am a BATTLESHIP SAILOR!

Name:

Charles M. Storrs

Email:

cmscas77@micro-link.net

Date:

Friday, 30. June 2006

Comments

I am looking for a white dress hat size 7 to complete my dress blues uniform. If any one out there has one that they want to get rid of I would appreciate you contacting me via my e-mail address. Having attended a recent memorial day service and parade in my home town , has inspired me to want to become one of the military marching units. I served aboard the Wisconsin in B Div. #3 fire room 1951-1953. Keep on keeping on to all you shipmates out there. Hope to see you at the reunion in Sept.

Comments from Dom: I hope someone has a white hat for you.  See you at the reunion Charlie and I hope a lot more of our shipmates who read this.

Name:

Charles "Stew" Stewart , Jr.

Email:

stewtek@msn.com

Date:

Thursday, 29. June 2006

Comments

I was an EM1, Electrical "E" Division on BB-64 from 1987-1989 (PlankOwner). Trying to locate a former Shipmate by the name of EM3 Jeffery "Jeff" Williams from Tennessee. If you happen to know Jeff's whereabouts, have him or you too, shoot me an email at stewtek@msn.com  All the Best, 16th inch MATES! The Stew

Comments from Dom: Can anyone help Stew locate Jeff?

Name:

Robert Driggers

Email:

rdriggers@hotmail.com

Date:

Monday, 26. June 2006

Comments

It has been nice keeping in touch will all the WISCONSIN group from the precom and commissioning during our days of Pascagoula and beyond. Following the years post Navy with Captain Blesch...Nissen...Cruze... and others to name a few has been enjoyable. I would encourage more of us to reach out to one another.........hope everyone is well.
 My contact info. is, rdriggers@hotmail.com  Cell: 949-373-6255 Living in Southern California......

Comments from Dom: Thanks for your comments, I hope you do get more of us to reach out to one another.

Name:
          Clyde M. Robinson

Email:
           cmrstrings@ctc.net

Date:
          Monday, 19. June 2006

Comments

I am a plank owner. I was in the navy in1943 to1945 I would like to know if any one knows any thing about Harvey Keenan or Big Bull Weasley, or any kind of information about the L division in 1943 to 1945.   I will be 85, my birthday is the 16th of November.   How much does it cost to join the association. C. M. Robinson.

Comments from Dom: Hi Clyde, I hope you get some information about your shipmates. 
The Association dues are $15.00 a year, click the following for an Application
 

Name: 
        JONES BROWN

Email:

jb254364@alltel.net

Date:

Saturday, 17. June 2006

Comments
WISH TO SAY HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO ALL. 6/18/06 SMOOTH SAILING.

Comments from Dom: Thanks Jones, from all the fathers.

Name:

Terry Frost

Email:

Date:

Tuesday, 13. June 2006

Comments
Does anyone have any information on where we got our cruise jackets and if there is any chance of getting another; lost mine in a house fire. Onboard from 89-91. I can be reached at the following: Cell: 479-453-1116 Cingular or home at 479-229-9946. Very respectfully, Terry

Comments from Dom: I get a number of request for this jacket, said to say I do not have an answer for them.
I believe it was  a one shot deal to purchase this jacket.

Name:

Terry Frost YN2(SW/AW)

Email:

Date:

Tuesday, 13. June 2006

Comments

I was saddened to notice how few deck log entries were available for 06'. I served from 89-91' onboard and have just in the past few months realized that most of the upper ranking enlisted and officers I served with are approaching retirement or have retired and that my group will be the next reaching the twilight of their careers. I would love to hear from some of the admin guys. My cell phone # 479-453-1116 or my home # 479-229-9946. The farther time passes by; the more and more fond I am of the times we all shared. You guys hold a spot close to heart. Never was I so glad to leave anywhere in my life as I was the day I was ding' dinged off the brow; and now as I look back I am more saddened than I was happy that I did not take the time to enjoy what a wonderful adventure we were involved in. I sincerely look forward to placing my foot back on those teak decks, one more time. God bless you guys still serving; hope the best for you and your families. Thanks for serving! Dom? I haven't a chance to read all the pubs listed; is there a chance that Wisky will be opened up so we can visit the inside of her once again? If so, when would you expect this to happen? Thanks you for your timeless efforts through the years; I appreciate the devotion you have shown. This always brightens my day when I get a chance to visit.

Comments from Dom: Hi Terry, yes deck log entries have been light.
 When the ship is officially turned over to the city of Norfolk, which should happen this year, then at some point after that the ship will be opened to the public. We do not know when.  When a time frame for opening the ship is given to us, we will notify our Association members and also post the information on this web site.
Terry, as a former crew member, have you given thought to joining our Wisconsin Family

Name:

Joe Brown

Email:

washcapsfans@cox.net

Date:

Monday, 05. June 2006

Comments

Hmm. Now I am confused. The Naval Vessel Register says that the USS Wisconsin is now available for donation as a museum or memorial with a different maintenance category. Since I have not heard anything about the City of Norfolk and its Letter of Intent to acquire the Wisconsin, is there a hold up? Thank you for clarifying and keep up the great work!!

Comments from Dom: Joe, I don't have an answer for you. Read the April 1, 2006 story in The Virginian Pilot

Name:

Mike Olson

Email:

solson32@wi.rr.com

Date:

Sunday, 04. June 2006

Comments

I served on the Wisconsin from 1988 - 1990. I am looking to get in contact with FC2 Steve Blivens and IC3 Rob Wilson. If there is anyone who can help me, I would appreciate it. Thanks, Mike Olson

Comments from Dom: Mike, I hope you hear from your shipmates.

Name:

Ted Yadlowsky

Email:

tedy@usnfsa.org

Date:

Friday, 02. June 2006

Comments

http://armedservices.house.gov/NDAA2007CommiteeReport.pdf pg. 68 of the House Armed Services Defense Bill Battleship transfer In the conference report (H. Rept. 109–360) accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2006, the committee included instructions regarding the transfer of the battleships USS Wisconsin and USS Iowa to the Commonwealth of Virginia and State of California, respectively, and the President’s reversion authority pursuant to a national emergency. The committee seeks to clarify that the battleships USS Wisconsin and USS Iowa must be regarded as potential mobilization assets and both the recipients and the U.S. Navy are instructed to treat them as such. The committee notes that the following measures should be taken: (1) the ships must not be altered in any way that would impair their military utility; (2) the ships must be preserved in their present condition through the continued use of cathodic protection and dehumidification systems and any other preservation methods as needed; (3) spare parts and unique equipment such as 16-inch gun barrels and projectiles, be preserved in adequate numbers to support the two ships, if reactivated; and (4) the Navy must prepare plans for the rapid reactivation of the two battleships should they be returned to the Navy in the event of a national emergency. This means that the USS Wisconsin and her sister ship USS Iowa will be treated as a Mobilization Asset that the Navy will still have to care for and have plans for rapid reactivation. In the Conference Report it was clear that the Iowa Class Battleships are the ONLY remaining source of Credible Naval Service Fire Support ( NSFS) to support our soldiers.

Comments from Dom:  As of this date, the above bill has not been signed.   You can access the following: Federal Register: March 29, 2006 (Volume 71, Number 60 Page 15708-15710 of The Defense Appropriation Bill, which became law earlier this year. This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer the USS Iowa and the USS Wisconsin from the Naval Vessel Register.

Name:

MS1 Thomas Flom USN

Email:

tflom@carterhall.navy.mil

Date:

Tuesday, 23. May 2006

Comments

For those looking for contact, I can be reached tflom@carterhall.navy.mil  I served in S-2 88-91. I am looking for old shipmates to talk about good times.

Comments from Dom: Thomas, I hope you get some e-mails from former shipmates.

Name:

George E. Matthai

Email:

matthai@fuse.net  

Date:

Tuesday, 23. May 2006

Comments

Does anyone have any suggestions about attending the reunion in a motorized scooter? I don't walk too good anymore and was wondering how you get to the various tour sites? is there transportation available or do you just use your own car?

Comments from Dom: George, at our last reunion we had two shipmates with motorizes scooters and they got around fine. On bus tours, the scooter was stored in the luggage compartment of the bus.

Name:

Bradshaw Family

Email:

outsiders@adelphia.net

Date:

Saturday, 13. May 2006

Comments

Can't wait for her to be opened. My Dad was in the Navy, and although I did not follow him, I have an appreciation for the "Boats" and the people that served on them. We enjoyed the "Wisky" very much. During dinner I asked my six year old what the best part of his vacation was, "Being on that big ship", he said with a smile. We have been on several ships and always enjoy them. I remember being aboard several ships with dad and the smell of the Wisconsin brought back good memories. Thanks Guys.

Comments from Dom: Hi Bradshaw Family, thanks for your comments, especially your six year old son, he said it all "Being On That Big Ship".

Name:

Tom

Email:

Date:

Friday, 12. May 2006

Comments

Served on the USS IOWA as a member of the Marine Detachment in the 80's. Went to Desert Shield/Storm to do what Marines do best and cannot tell you how happy we Marines were to have the Wisconsin covering our butts. The only time I felt safer was knowing that both the Whiskey and the Mighty Mo was just off the Kuwaiti coast. The Iowa class ship is the most impressive ship ever built! No ship today has the lines that these impressive battlewagons had. Can't wait to take my son to see one.

Comments from Dom: Hi Tom, I'm glad the Wisconsin and the Missouri were there for the Marines. To bad they couldn't keep them active until something as powerful came along.

Name:

Gere Mullican

Email:

steelman37086@wmconnect.com

Date:

Friday, 05. May 2006

Comments

Dom, they were just plain knit (I think) navy blue (or black) trunks. The only kind I can find now are those that come down to the knees or below. I am sure that is the style now days, but not my style. The legs balloon when you get in the water and not very good in my opinion. I don't want those spandex looking things either. I found my seabag yesterday and the only things left in it are flat hat, 1 dress blue, 1 undress blue, knit gloves and first aid kit. Help!! Gere

Comments from Dom: I just don't recall what the bathing suits looked like.   I also have my seabag, dress blues, whites, ( I think they are yellow now) flat hat and white hat.( I think that's yellow also, oh well it will go with the yellow whites.)

Name:

Gere Mullican

Email:

steelman37086@wmconnect.com

Date:

Wednesday, 03. May 2006

Comments

I have been searching high and low for a pair of swim trunks like I was issued when I enlisted in 1952. If any one on active duty can locate a pair for me I would appreciate an e-mail, I have searched the internet frontwards and backwards with no luck. I don't know where naval personnel purchase their clothing around Nashville. I will appreciate any info. Thanks Gere
 

Comments from Dom: Gere, I don't recall what they looked like.

Name:

Alan Ownbey

Email:

ownbey1@brinet.com

Date:

Thursday, 20. April 2006

Comments

I served on the Wisconsin from 1987 to 1991. My wife & I lived in Mississippi & she became good friends with a shipmates wife. Over the years we have lost touch. My wife has tried over the internet to find them. The shipmate was Kevin Jones he was in Personal & his wife was Pat Jones. They were from Kentucky & the last we heard they were in Indiana. If anyone has any information on them PLEASE e-mail us. Thank You!!

Comments from Dom: Can anyone help our shipmate, Alan?

Name:

Leigh Blanton

Email:

tuck417@hotmail.com

Date:

Friday, 07. April 2006

Comments

My father was on the Wisconsin during WWII and I'm trying to find anyone who may have known him. His name was Frank Lee Blanton, from Kings Mountain, NC.

Comments from Dom: Can any of our 1940's crewmembers help Leigh?

Name:

Irving Howard Zimmerman

Email:

howspar@aol.com

Date:

Saturday, 01. April 2006

Comments

I recently became a member of the Wisconsin family. I served on the Whisky in 1956 and 1957. In going through the membership log I came across a lot of familiar names and contacted each one with an email address. Needless to say I got a couple of responses, but the best was from a shipmate that I hadn't seen or or heard from since he left the ship in January of '57. Turns out he comes to the SF Bay area on a regular basis on business and we got together for dinner and recounted good times aboard our ship. Now we continue to keep in touch. Thanks for the site. I look forward to the newsletters and updates.

Comments from Dom: Glad you made contact with some former shipmates.  Also, I'm glad that this website works when it comes to reuniting former shipmates.

Name:

Van Gates

Email:

vghillbillycat@aol.com

Date:

Thursday, 30. March 2006

Comments

My dad served on the Whiskey in 1946. His name was John Hughes Gates. He passed away in 1981. I would  like to know if anyone aboard knew him. If so, you can email me. He was so proud of being a member of the crew of BB64. I have never seen her, but my wife and I are going to go see her this summer.

Comments from Dom: Hi Van, I hope you hear from your Dad's shipmates.

Name:

Curt Croy USAF Ret.

Email:

netexplorer3@aol.com

Date:

Thursday, 23. March 2006

Comments

Just was on the Navel Vessel Register site and sadly noticed that the USS Wisconsin has been stricken as of 17 Mar 06 Sure would of loved to see her sail the seas once again, but after she is opened up I will be there to see her in her new glory. I wish all of you Navy folks the best and take good care of her.

Comments from Dom: Hi Curt, thanks for the information.  I have been checking the N.V.R. for the past month  and saw the change in status.  The city of Norfolk is taking very good care of our ship.

Name:

Brett Walters

Email:

jus4sports@yahoo.com

Date:

Wednesday, 22. March 2006

Comments

Amazing site...must be all-consuming. I served onboard from June '90 thru August '91. Started as a non-rate...Left as a non-rate on my way to CT (A) school. Spent time in fire pit 2,3,AND4...Was in an offshoot deck division to help paint the ship and make the inside bright as daylight for Distinguished Visitors. Glad to see the pictures of those CPO candidates scrubbing the teak....Lord knows enough of us 'nobodies' at the time did it daily. Only 'funny' story I can relate is of my father speaking to my wife at the time...upon pulling into Nor VA from Gulf I, after hearing her stories, he was in major denial. We pulled around back of another ship...I THINK it was Enterprise, don't remember much else about that day except just getting home, but as we pulled from her back...my father is quoted as saying..."That's not so big...."....then more of the ship came into view..."It's still not THAT big...."....then MORE...and finally this progressed to his last words being spoken on the subject were "Oh MY GOD that thing is HUGE." Finally got out in 2000...can't wait to see the ship again. Gonna show my kids what daddy was up to when he was 18....young, dumb and fulla...well...u get the idea.
 

Comments from Dom: Hi Brett, thanks for stopping by and sharing your stories with us.  We would sure like to have you as a member of our Wisconsin Family.

Name:

Ken Weber

Email:

kjweber2658@yahoo.com

Date:

Monday, 20. March 2006

Comments

I finally got a chance to walk her decks again back in Feb and brought my wife with me. It felt so good to be back onboard her. After spending a few hours on her, My wife knows why I love that big ship of ours.

Comments from Dom: Hi Ken, I know the feeling. I get to see the ship two or three times a year and each time I board her, she takes me back in time.

Name:

Ted Yadlowsky

Email:

tedy@usnfsa.org

Date:

Monday, 13. March 2006

Comments

I thought some of you would enjoy seeing these photos. http://www.usnfsa.org/bbg61/bbg.pps This is a MS Power Point presentation that has been shrunk to allow you to view these detailed photo's of the Iowa class BBG. This model was built in anticipation that the Iowa and Wisconsin would be return to active service because the USMC Leadership in November of 2004 called for their reactivation. Politics stepped in and the Iowa’s are now closer to becoming permanent museums. Below is a link for a MS Power Point viewer if you don’t have Power Point. This is free to download. http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=428D5727-43AB-4F24-90B7-A94784AF71A4&displaylang=en 

Comments from Dom: Thanks Ted, great photos, 80 in all, of this great model.  I enjoyed looking at them. Thanks for sharing it with us.
 

Name:

Joe Brown

Email:

washcapsfans@cox.net

Date:

Friday, 10. March 2006

Comments

Hey all! I am a big fan of the Wisconsin and was wondering if the legislation to transfer the ship to the City of Norfolk is getting anywhere. The last I heard the Marine Corps was resisting this legislation in order to keep the Wisconsin in Ready Reserve status. Hopefully, the prospects are good and that more of the ship will be opened up. Great website!! Keep up the good work. And to all of the officers and men who served on this magnificent ship, THANK YOU! Joe Brown Virginia Beach, VA

Comments from Dom: Hi Joe, thanks for your comments and compliments. I believe the only thing left, is for  the secretary of the Navy to sign some documents, and then the ship will be released.

Name:

Danny R. Medlock

Email:

danny.medlock@navy.mil   

Date:

Monday, 27. February 2006

Comments

I have been looking for a DVD version of the Gulf War cruise video. My VHS version is going down the tube quick. It is also hard to find a VHS for letting my current troops see what the big guns were really like. If anyone has info on getting a copy, please let me know. I'll be heading to Iraq soon with the new Riverine Squadrons, so I'm not sure how often I will be accessing my email.

Comments from Dom: Hi Danny, those videos' are no longer available. Perhaps someone has an extra copy or can make you a copy.

Name:

Irving Zimmerman

Email:

howspar@aol.com

Date:

Friday, 24. February 2006

Comments

Dom, You did a fantastic job cleaning the picture up. Thank you. Howard

Comments from Dom: Your welcome Howard. Pictures like that are a challenge, sometime they clean up good and sometime they don't.

Name:

Irving Zimmerman

Email:

howspar@aol.com

Date:

Sunday, 19. February 2006

Comments

Anyone know where I can get a copy of the 1955/56 cruise book? Was there one for '57?

Comments from Dom: Cruise books are hard to find. No cruise books after the 1955/1956 book.

Name:

BM1 SW CHARLES BROWN USN RET. USS IOWA

Email:

SOON

Date:

Saturday, 18. February 2006

Comments

DOM NOW THAT THE IOWA'S ARE OFF THE NAVY'S  LISTS. WHEN DO YOU BB 64 SHIPMATES EXPECT TO OPEN HER UP WHERE VISITORS CAN GO IN SIDE.

Comments from Dom: Boats, hopefully the city of Norfolk will own the ship, and it will be up to them to set the opening date.

Name:

Irving Howard Zimmerman

Email:

howspar@aol.com

Date:

Friday, 17. February 2006

Comments

I just found this web site. I am now trying to contact old shipmates. I served from 2/56 to 8/57 in OI (radar). To recall who I am, think back to the beauty pageant smoker when I was named Miss Wisconsin . Dr. Kanter was the emcee.

Comments from Dom: Irving, I was not aboard at that time, but I wish I had been there to see that smoker.               If anyone has pictures of this event, please send or email them to me and I will put them on this site.

Name:

George E. Matthai

Email:

matthai@fuse.net

Date:

Wednesday, 15. February 2006

Comments

I spent three thoroughly enjoyable years on the Wisconsin from 1953-1955. I quit high school to join the Navy because I was sure I was going to be drafted into the Army. While aboard I studied and passed the GED High School Equivalency test and was told I would get a high School diploma which I never did. Well here I am 51 years later still waiting. I called the high School I went to (Purcell) and they said they would be happy to present me one but wanted to do it at a ceremony. It seems someone from WW2 and Viet Nam are also getting one. They have arranged to present them to us in front of the student body and also have a Q & A period. My point in telling you this is if anyone is from the Cincinnati, OH. area and would like to attend let me know with your email. As soon as I get a date I will let you know, George

Comments from Dom: George, what is that saying, "Better late than never"
 

Name:

Al Proctor

Email:

darpro29@yahoo.co

Date:

Monday, 06. February 2006

Comments

Seeking information in finding ship log entries USS Palau, CVE-122, Feb. 01, 1953-Feb. 28, 1953. Also want to make contact with any members os Squadron VS-32 who served in VS-32 during that same month.

Comments from Dom: Al, you will have to contact the National Archives at College Park, Maryland, for the ship's logs.

Name:

BARRY

Email:

BARRY6364@YAHOO.COM

Date:

Tuesday, 31. January 2006

Comments

I ENJOYED THE NEW PICS. I SAW A LOT OF OLD FRIENDS. I WAS 5TH DIV. DECK 88-91.

Comments from Dom: Glad you liked the pictures. I have a lot more to put on, just need the time to get them ready.

Name:

Mike Brown MS3

Email:

mike.b1@comcast.net

Date:

Sunday, 29. January 2006

Comments

Hey whiskey shipmate it's the cook that fed you guys for 3years.I also found a lost shipmate from cally Scott Campbell. It's been a long time but I can remember the good times we had in Norfolk, VA. It's sad that our buddy Dave Dugger, that hung out with us passed away.:{ Well looking forward to South Carolina hopefully to see some shipmate that I sailed with,+ to hear stories of 1944 1955 stories.

Comments from Dom: Glad you found a lost shipmate and looking forward to seeing you at the reunion.
 

Name:

MMCM JAMES H.RUFFIN Jr.

Email:

jimandkat@charter.net

Date:

Monday, 23. January 2006

Comments

I WOULD LIKE TO SAY HELLO TO ALL THE ENGINEERS WHO SERVED WITH ME (1988-1989). A SPECIAL HELLO TO LT. BOSMAN; MMCS BARKER, MMCS BITTLE. MMC OLSON OF M=DIV. TAKE CARE SAILORS.

Comments from Dom: I hope you get some "Hello's" back.

Name:

Glenn Bailey Jr

Email:

imperialgraphix@gmail.com

Date:

Friday, 13. January 2006

Comments

Hello. I'm sorry to say that, my Grandfather, Glenn Bailey passed away September 2005. He served on the Wisconsin in 1956, during the time of the collision with the USS Eaton. When I was 10 years old I remember traveling with my family to Mississippi to participate in the reunion and reactivation of the BB64. I can't say in words of how proud and honored my Grandfather was when he spoke of his times onboard the decks of the USS Wisconsin. I know that it is unlikely, but if anybody would have any information on my grandfather, or may have known him I would love to hear stories that I have never hear or got the chance to ask. he also went by (heaston Glenn Bailey) thank you: Glenn Bailey Jr.

Comments from Dom: Hi Glenn, you forgot to include your email address. Email it to me and I will insert it above.
01-18-06 Glenn, thanks for sending me your email address, I listed it above.

 

Name:

Dan

Email:

ChopprBluez@aol.com

Date:

Thursday, 12. January 2006

Comments

Greetings, I would like to know if there is anybody aboard who can answer select questions on Wisconsin's power plant material status and perhaps a few others. Thanks Much Dan

Comments from Dom: Dan, you do know that the ship does not have a crew. Hopefully someone will answer your questions.

Name:

Terry Holder

Email:

pt0872@msn.com

Date:

Friday, 06. January 2006

Comments

Hello, I tried emailing someone from the Deck Log regarding the Wisconsin DVD from 1991. The email came back undeliverable. So if someone has this DVD or VHS please let me know. I never got a copy when I was onboard and really would love to have one. Thanks so much.

Comments from Dom: Terry, I hope someone helps you out on this.