I was on the Forrestal for the Med Cruise, late 60's (?, paper work is packed) and left just before she had the "big fire". Was in the flight deck lighting gang as an EM2(SS) working for an EM1 Bottemly (sp). Christmas in Beruit and New Years in Athens, great cruise, have tons of photos on hand when I unpack again. Leaving Hawaii after 21+ years and moving to Oregon.

JOHN R.SOUTHARD served as an Aviation Ordanance 3rd Class, "G" Division. Served Aboard USS FORRESTAL 1964 - 1967. Served remaining time USS RANDOLPH.Got out AUG,1967.

I served on board Forrestal CVA-59 from 1963 to 1965 as Quarter Master 3rd class. I made one Cruise to the Caribbean and a Medcruise for 9 months. I was very saddened when I learned about the bigfire on Forrestal in Vietnam. I was sure we had lost her, and I wouldnot have seen her again. I have been keeping track of Forrestal eversince I got out of the Navy. September 1994 I took my family tosee Forrestal for the first time, in the Philadelphia ship yard. Wegot a complete tour of the ship by a Quarter Master 1st class, witchwas a women. My family was very excited to see the ship I served on,and couldn't believe how big it was. Me and my family were invitedto the decommissioning of Forrestal in Philadelphia, and believe meI was very sad. I would hate to see Forrestal cut up for scrap,and Ithink being the first supper carrier, she should be saved.

I served aboard the Forrestal July 1962 to July 1966 (I was extended by order of the President because of theVietnam war). I was a Quartermaster PO3, among my duties were stearingthe ship in dangerous waters, keeping the ship's log, Navigation, andI was the ship's bugler. I was aboard the Forrestal the entire 4 years that I was in the Navy exceptfor the 2 months in Boot Camp. I made 3 Mediterianean Cruises, 2 Caribeancrusies. Believe me I miss that ship. The thing I remember the mostis the deaths that occured on board. I had to play TAPS for each one.

I served aboard Forrestal from June, 1966 to March of 1970. I was assigned to the Power Shopin E Division. At the time of the fire I was serving my 90 day mess cooking duties, however during the fire I wasscooped up for fire fighting duty on the flight deck. When the flight deck was under control I was ordered below for fire fighting duties as well.I never knew the other sailors in this group, what division they came from, or how they got "scooped up" to form our party but we all had thesame training and I thought and still do think we performed very well. After the fire I convinced my chief to let me stay in the shop for a couple of weeks working on the electical repairs, rather than going back to mess cooking. Eventually I did go back, but at least I missed thewashing and scrubbing for hours on end that had to be performed to get the aft mess decks back in order. I've bumped into a few of the guys I served with over the years but would like to hear from any others, email me at Onejoey@snet.net. My home page is at http://pages/cthome.net/Fecarotta

Message to LEO and SPEEDY we all still remember.

I served on the Forrestal from January 1966 to October 1969, where I worked in arresting gear. During my enlistment I did two Med cruises and a West Pac. During the big fire I lost a real good friend, Robert Jerome Velasquez, from Tampa, Florida. We called him "Stumpy" because he had legs that looked like tree stumps. When visiting Washington his name is on the Vietnam Veterans Wall. Some of the other guys I served with are; John "The Wedge-Head" Wesselink, Pat Reynolds, E. Michael Morris, Jeff "Beef" Carlson, Bobby Stephens, Bobby Stibal, David Grubbs, Albert Bass, Kenny Fabiani, Gary "Dog" Merritt, Ricky Gargano, "Crazy Boy" Startzell, Lt. Williams and Lt. Bonnell and John Browka. Others were "The Head" Koozer, and L.F. "The Neck" Smith. If any of you guys read this, or anybody who knows of them, get a hold of me. I live in Rossie, Iowa (e-mail- henaman@rconnect.com)

I was the Forrestal's EOD officer. I also served as an OOD(U). I was aboard from 1966 to 1968.When the fire broke out I was on the flight deck where I remained until the fire was under control. Then I went to hangar deckthree to assist in disarming some aircraft. Now I am a Circuit CourtJudge in Gainesville, Florida, and an adjunct instructor of law atthe University of Florida law school.

I served on board the 10th anniversary cruise 65-66,assigned to "G"division. I was assigned to the cluster bomb mag,before being moved tothe flight deck safety crew,due to time of enlistment left. They sayin the navy, never volunteer. Well when she went into drydock after thecruise (I believe for 18 months)myself and seven others AO3's from the navygot volunteered for flight and combat at SQ.HC-1 called Operation GameWarden. I saw her again on 30 July 1967 when she docked at the carrier pier at Cubi Point NAS.PHILIPPINES. She was still smoking from firesbelow decks. I went aboard to learn the fate of my shipmates and was told no one from "G" Division died on the flight deck,but one had perishedin a magazine. I don't know how true it is but the last news letter from VVA Chapter451 said she will be moved to Baltimore in the Spring of 1997. I am a firefighter with Baltimore County for 28 years and also had the great pleasure of fling with LT.Clyde Lassen (awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor).

My father was Air Ops officer during the big fire. I clearly remember watching theship pull into NOB after the cruise and seeing the damge first hand. He passed away in 1991 but I do recall him saying he had a collection of messages of condolences from around the world.

I served aboard the Forrestal 1960-62 in the lighting shop. I reported for duty right out of "A" school. I had served on 2 LSM's and the Roy O. Hale DER 336 prior to the Forrestal.

I made 2nd class while on board. The chief liked me............ he made me educational petty officer. So I set up an electrical theory school in an empty void. To the best of my knowledge, at the time, it was the only sea going electrical theory school in the Navy and it was on the Forrestal. Another Forrestal first. I was discharged in July 1962.

At the present time I am an officer in the U.S.S. Forrestal Naval Museum Inc. this group is trying to save the ship.

In 1965 I reported for duty onboard the Forrestal and was assigned towhat was then known as V6, I worked in the sheet metal shop then liquidoxygen, then the hydraulic shop aft of hanger bay 3. In 1966 I was assignedto the C1A crew (the COD), and that was among my most memorable duty onboard the ship, we had the ability to launch from the angle deck under our own power or from the catapults, I think I prefferd the cats..butnothing in my life has been as exciting as landing on boardD, 2 weeksbefore the fire I was reassigned to the hydraulic shop which is where Iwas when the fire started, I give thanks that I was able to survive thatday and have prayed often for my shipmates that did not. I was dischargedin December of 67. In 1971 I got a job in radio broadcasting and sincethen I have worked in Washington D.C., San Antonio Texas, and HarrisburgPA. Where I do the morning show on 1230 WKBO my air name is Dan Steeleit's a name that was given to me in D.C. and it has stuck with me everysince, I look forward to helping save our ship.

I served from April 1966 to April 1968. I was the Chief Engineer andDamage controll officer, in 30 years day to day service, my most memorable tour was Forrestal, I am now retired in Maine. I would welcome correspondence at my E Mail Address or my residence from allwho knew me. My Email address is: curado@megalink.net and my residence is:

11 Varney Road
Sumner ME. 04292

I Served on board in 1963-64 attached to the flight group with VAH-6. I was an ADJ-3 jet mechanic and plane captain on one of the A-3s. We sure had a great cruise and saw a lot of things in the Med.When we returned from this cruise the squadron was changed to aVigalante outfit and I transfered to a different squadron at Whibey Island, Washington. From there I went to Vietnam on the Kitty Hawk, bad time over there but someone had to do it I guess. That was the cruise when we had a bad fire during a replentishment and lost a few of the crew.I kind of lost track of all the guys who I served with during both of my squadrons.

Keep up the good work that you are doing here, and thanks for the chanceto add my name to the list of great Americans that served on this ship.

I served as an aviation ordnanceman in G division aboard Forrestal fromMay 1967 to August 1969. At the time of the fire I was a member of theBomb Elevator Crew. I moved to Hanger Deck Ordnance for the 1968-69 Medcruise.

After I got out, I was an Air Traffic Controller for 10 years working inCleveland, Ohio and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Now I am a Yardmaster on therailroad division of the Southeastern Pennsylvania TransportationAuthority in Philadelphia, Pa.

You can e-mail me at: Mac21@webtv.net

Served aboard Forrestal July 1961 to July 1963. First division Med cruise 1962-1963. During the cuban blockade wartime cruises, qualified Helmsman, See the Forrestal in moth balls every day. Currently living in the Philadelphia area. Work as an Electrician for the Pep Boys.

Served onboard Aug 1969 to July 1971. Started out in the machine shop (A5) for the first couple of months, worked in breakout for 3 months, then transfered to hyd. (A1). My work station and clensing station was NO.1 elevator machinery space. I operated the B & A crane (boat & airplane) in port (bring cases of soda on board ship from different ports) and removed damaged aircraft onto barges. Also worked in steering, anchor windless, capstins, any hyd. equipment. I stood deck wench watch when along side other ships and my sea & anchor station was the anchor windless, general quarters station was where the barber shop and jewelery store was and the missile elevators just before the foward mess decks. My berthing space was NO.2 elevator machinery space.Here is my current e-mail address: hirschhorn@juno.com

I was actualy assigned to Reconnaissance Attack Squadron Twelve( RVAH-12 ), but whenever a heavy attack squadron went to sea the AirIntelligence Office went TAD to the OZ Division of the ship. My most memorable time on that cruise was our visit to Istanbul, Turkey. TheIndependence was the previous ship to visit there and anti-Vietnam riotsliteraly threw the liberty party into the Bosphorus. We were onlyallowed to go to the covered bazarr, the Hilton Hotel and the US AirForce Base and then only with Turkish Military escort. There weredemonstrations on the pier every day.

I was aboard the USS Forrestal from 1967-1969, V-2 Div. Forward Cats. I worked Hold Back, Hook up, Launch Control, bridle return, had just about every job there was in Catapults. I worked launch console, where we would measure the superheated steam for a cat. launch, according to a planes weight. Have taken apart and put together every part of a catapult. I Also lost friends, too many stories to mention on that flight deck, I can sure rembember launch for 20 min. arrest for 20 min. and sleep for 20 min. Slept on the flight deck many nites for nite opps. Currently I own a small business in Reno NV. E-Mail address is Wwjay2@aol.com

I served on the Forrestal from Aug 1962-Feb 1965. I was in R Div, assigned to carpenter shop and damage control shops. I served during the Cuban Missile Crisis. I made 3 Med Cruises, got injured during the 3rd cruise, mustered out at NAS Memphis 18 months later. Alias Lew. E-mail lewbur@shelbynet.net

I was a Forrestal crew member from March 1967 until Oct. 1969. I was aboardduring the fire. I was in CR division as a radioman. My general quartersstation was in Radio 3 which I could not get to because of the fire andexplosions. I, as everyone else did my part in containing the fire andhelping shipmates. After the overhaul I made a Med. cruise in 1968. Have some great memories andsome not so great from my time on the Forrestal but it will forever remain inmy heart. MalUSN@aol.com

I served aboard the Forrestal from late "66" to early "68". I was a aviation structural mechanic 3rd class with VAW-123 (E2A Hawkeyes). The Forrestal was my first and only Ship that I was ever assigned to, in the 4 years that I was in. She is a large part of my life, as well as the crew who sailed on her. For those who died while trying to save Her, my eternal thanks, for those who fought on and did save Her, I will be forever thankful, and to all my brother shipmates who were with Her and came back, "WELCOME HOME". I live in Oak Park IL. and my E-Mail address is TBusc59@aol.com

I served on her from October 1964 until july of 1968 as a boilerman.My rate was BT3 and was in 4MMR and 1MMR (main engine room).I have lost all contact with the guys that were with me. If any see this they can contact me at: rc18@cornell.edu.

I served aboard the Forrestal from 1965 to 1967. I was an AC/3working in the Ops Dept as an air traffic controler.I too remember.

914-229-7335 home
914-297-5580 work
rinmill@mhv.net email

Kelly

Sailed with Forrestal as a member of the airgroup with VAW-12 from 1959 to 1961. Made numerous carrier quals and two Med cruises (those were the good days). Flew the back seat of the AD5W "Guppy" as an airborne radar controller. Does anyone have a 1960 or 61cruisebook they would let me beg borrow or steal? PLEASE!

I served on board from July, 1959 thru June, 1962 as radioman and in crypto. When I first went on board, I sat at a typewritter and took morse code for about a year. I made 3rd class Radioman and was a supervisor in Main Communications for part of a Med cruise. I got transfered to crypto and worked there until I got out. I made two Med cruise, the trip to Cuba in 1962 and the trip to NY, NY in the summer of 1962. I got to attend several Yankee games that week and got to see Mantle, Maris and the other boys of summer which I really enjoyed and will always remember fondly. After the Navy, I went to in TV repair until 1985 when I had a mid life crisis. My wife and I moved to Hilton Head Island, SC; I got my Captains license and have been chartering boats ever since. I hope you come visit our beautiful Island. I really have enjoyed reading the Forrestal web sites. I still have the 60 & 61 med cruise books if any one is interested. My e-mail address is "sonnyc2@junjo.com."

I served on the forrestal from Nov 66 to about July 68. During thefire I was mess cooking. We were down some hole in the 3rd decklooking for 12 cases of mixed salted nuts, when the fire started. Wewere trapped on the 2nd deck for about an hour before we were allowedout.. On the flight deck I did spend some time on a fire hose with manyother people. Water on the flight deck was boiling in many places asI remember. I live in Pasadena, TX and work at Houston Public TV inthe Engineering Department. phone at work (713) 749-8362, email is gwilson@kuht.uh.edu.

I was on her in 1967. I was with attack squadron VA-106 The GLADIATORS. I was an AO3 flight deck check crew. I shook her down for combat prior todeployment to Viet Nam. I left the Navy in May, 1967. I was an AviationOrdnance man RED shirt with black stripe. Our planes were A-4 Skyhawks. We had E models. I lost 8 squadron members in the fire, one very close. Raymond Plesh AO2. He took over sleeping in my old bunk and died while in the bunk. I am currently working with Jimmie Stewart to save Forrestal . The old girl is at the Philadelphia Navy yard tied up. I attended Bensalem's approval to give FID a final home port as a museum on the Delaware River. My email: adelturco@aol.com

I served aboard the Forrestal in 68-72. I was in the Boatswain Division. I worked in the side cleaning detail, ran liberty boats, and worked with replenishments. I live in Bradford Pa. and work in the warehouse at Coca Cola.

I was attached to VAW-123 and made two cruises on board the USS Forrestal. I was on board during the tragic explosion and fire July 29, 1967 and remember it well. I was on my way up to the flight deck and remember being shaken down a ladder wondering what was going on. My first thoughts were naturally we were being attacked. I have been a Fire Fighter in the City of Lorain, Ohio for the past twenty-eight years and have been the President of my Local IAFF Local 267 for about the last 14 years. I also serve in the capacity of District Vice President of the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters representing 33 Local in the State of Ohio.

Assigned to G-div 1964/65 as airman, returned to FID in 1977-1980, as AOC/AOCS assigned to VA-85.

I served on the USS Forrestal from Feb to June 1962, aviation supplies and stores. Currently work facilities maintanence at community medical center hospital.

Jimmie served aboard the Forrestal from 1965-1969. He was a nuclear weapons specialist in W division. He was aboard during the fire. He helped fight the fire just as the other men. Jimmie died in 1994 from PTSD.

I served on the Forrestal 1962 to 1965 V-6 Div. NC-2 driver on the flight deck. I'm now a pilot for Continental Airlines living in Kansas City, MO. Division chief was Savage? Anybody know about him?? Buddies were Tom Fox and David Peters both of V-1 Div. Also Ralph Kershival, Kennie Crownover also of V-1 Div. Lots of others but old age syndrome has taken effect. We did one MED cruise and a couple of ORI's in Puerto Rico, went to New York's world fair and Boston (1962?).

I am glad I found this sight. I was on the Forrestal from Aug 1965 to Oct 1967. I was on it in the gulf of Tonkin when it caught fire and exploded the 500lbs bombs on the fight deck. I can remember the tractors pushing the A4 skyhawks over the side of the ship. I'll never forget it! I will join the association asap. Now that I know where it is (the ship) maybe I'll get a chance to see it.

Best Regards,
Bob

I served on board USS Forrestal (CVA-59) from December 1969 until August 1971. At the time I was an Ensign and later LTjg. I served as First Division Officer, Second Division Officer, and for the last two months on board I was assigned to AIMD. I also served as Repair Party Officer for the island repair party and as GQ OOD. I remember vividly my time on board Forrestal and many of the men I served with. I did a lot of growing up during those times, as did many of us. The memory of those who perished in the fire was always around us and instilled a sense of pride and duty to those of us who realized what those men gave on that day in July 1967. I was extremely excited to learn of this web page and the efforts going on to preserve the "FID". Best wishes.

Mark Crouch
Computer Information Systems Director
Howard College
San Angelo, Texas
email: mbcrouch@worldnet.att.net

I served aboard the Forrestal from June 20, 1966 to Aug.8, 1969. My duties included Guided Missile Div. Flight Deck Crew Leader and Guided Missile Div. Nuclear Weapon Loading Team Leader. Of course, my most vivid memories are of the Forrestal fire. I'm sure no one onboard that day will ever forget the sights and sounds of that horrible July morning. I live in Niwot, Colorado. I work for Time Products, Inc.

2150 W. 6th Ave,
STE A2 Broomfield, Co. 80020
Ph (303)460-7481
FAX (303)460-7486

I served on the Forrestal in 65 & 66 I was discharged just before the tests after the major shipyard stay in 66, I was a 3rd class BT when I left and made 2nd before my discharge from the navy. I live in North Carolina now with my wife and dog and would love to hear from any BT'S OR MM'S I served with. You can email me at: HCook0646@aol.com.

Fireman A 3 Divison July 1964 to July 66 Had the honor toserve with the best group of men on a great ship. My duty,s were air andheating. When asked were I served , My pride in saying her nameshows, Never Forget.

I went aboard the Forrestal in Jan 5, 1968 in the Firewatch Div. while in Portsmouth, Va. just after the fire. When repairs to her were made, I went to V-2 Div as a crewmember of the #4 Waist Catapult. I was checked out on every station on the catapult from hookup to waterbrakes. I was the console operator until my transfer to Lakehurst NAS in NJ. That was Jan 4, 1971. In Lakehurst, I was console operator on the newest experimental catapult. I don't remember what model it was or if it was a C11 or not. From what I understand it was supposed to be what went on the Nimitz and Eisenhaurer. The deckedge, VanZelm, and Cat Officer emerged out of the deck in a glass bubble opposed to the old much more dangerous way (all hands topside)I finished my Naval career there and was discharged Dec 20, 1971.For the past 17 years I have been the part owner operator of a Window and DoorCompany in upstate New York. I've been married twice. The first for 16 years and the second and present, for 8 years. I have 1 Son , 3 Step-daughters and 3 grand daughters. Anyone can email me at:mwwd@cityusa.com or wvoelker@aol.com.

Joined the Navy in 1966 and after completing Aviation Ordnance "A" School and "C" School for the Sparrow Missile at NATTC/NAS Jacksonville, FL. I served aboard the Forrestal from May, 1967 to July 29, 1967 as AOAN. At the time of the fire I was mess cooking. When the first bomb went off, I was in my rack sleeping. I slept on the 2nd deck, back af't near the fantail. When I opened my eyes, the bulkhead next to me was shattered. There were flames. One of the guys was on his feet standing next to my rack. He was checking on me to see if I was okay. At the same time, I noticed a deep shrapnel wound in the bottom of my right foot. We decided it was time to get the hell out of there. I hobbled to the port passageway and headed forward towards sickbay. Then another explosion rocked the ship. A shipmate with a head wound was carried past me. By now everyone was in the passageway heading forward. I couldn't make it through until someone noticed my wound and everyone ganged way to let me pass, as they did for the shipmate with the the head wound. There was another bomb explosion. Then this big guy I knew, I called him "Alabama", he calledme "New York", grabbed me under my arm and carried me to sickbay.

Soon I was taken through the Hangar Bay to the Flight Desk and helicopteredto the USS Oriskany (CVA-34), and then the USS Repose in Da Nang Harbor,where they operated on me. Then they medivaced me to St. Albans NavalHospital in Queens, NY via the Philippines, Japan, Alaska, Scott AFB (IL),Andrews AFB, and NAS Floyd Bennett, Brooklyn, NY. I was there until mydischarge in November, 1967. In 1968 I secured a position in Data Processing and since then, I've worked in Manhattan; Long Island; Boca Raton, FL; and Coral Springs, FL where I live with my wife, Elke and operate my own small business, PHF Career Services. I consider myself very lucky to be alive. I'll always remember my shipmates who died that day, and those shipmates whose efforts saved our ship, and made it possible for us to continue to honor Forrestal and all who served on her. There were good memories of the Forrestal which included the Family Day Cruise, becoming a Shellback, three days of liberty in Rio de Janeiro, and a SRO stag movie I provided for an unofficial screening aboard the Forrestal in Norfolk for over 100 of us.

Any shipmate should feel free to contact me at PFried59@aol.com.
or at my business (954) 344-0004.

The following is a quote from another Sailor I'd like to share.

Any Man who may be askedin this Century what he did tomake his life worthwhile...can respond... I servedin the United States Navy...

John F. Kennedy

I served aboard the Forrestal from December 1963 until March 1968 as aRadioman in CR Division. My primary duties was in Crypto repair. During my time aboard I ran thousands of phone-patches during several Med cruises as well as during the WestPac cruise under the call sign of WA8DAF. This ham shack became a vital tool during the fire. I started out as a seaman "striker" and left the ship as RM1. My time aboard will always be a very important time of my life, it allowed all of us to meet so many different people and to experience so many different things.

My e-mail address is: GDWILSON@GATE.NET
or ROTARY1@JUNO.COM.

Mail address: Gary D. Wilson
1014 Ponce de Leon Avenue
Clewiston, Florida 33440-5102

Thanks

Served aboard the Forrestal on several cruises from 1961 to 1963. On my first "MED" trip I was assigned HangerDeck/Flight Deck Control using sound powered phones to keep tabs on the maintainence status of all aircraft. It was during this assignment when I witnessed the #3 arresting wire break from an A5D hard landing. Many of the wounded men were still in the Philadelphia Naval Hospital in the Spring of 1963 when I was discharged. I am now retired from the telecommunication industry, residing in Baltimore, the possible future home of the Forrestal.

Gunnery Department Admin. Assistant and OOD. CDR Floyd Bowdey was the Gun Boss- who has retired from the Regular Navy as a CAPT and lives in Annandale, VA. LT Cal Swart (First LT) made CDR in the Reserve and isretired in Hurt, VA. I served on board from July '61 to July '63. I leftactive duty to pursue graduate studies at Purdue. I joined the Reserveprogram in Mar '65 and changed my designator from 1105 (line) to 1615(cryptology). I affiliated with the Naval Reserve Security Group program-from which I retired in Aug '94 at the grade of Captain. I presently workas a Toxicology Lab Supervisor at Purdue. I can be reached ateverson@addl.purdue.edu

I came aboard the Forrestal when she was in dry dock in Portsmouth. I was assigned to the AIMD Division as an AMS3 and worked in the sheetmetal shop. On the day of the fire, I was working in the tire shop innumber 1 hangar bay. When we returned to the states, I was transferredto HC-2 in Lakehurst N.J. and was sent to the Shangri-La for a Medcruise. I was discharged in 69 and went to work for the NYS Department ofCorrections. I retired from there as a Lt. in 95 and I am now living withmy wife in New Port Richey, Florida. I am interested in hearing from anyone who worked in AIMD, I can be reached at mrwfl@gte.net.

I was aboard the Forrestal from 1963 to 1965. I was in the Boatswain Div. ranliberty boats and then was on the Capt. Gig. Also lots of claen up work !!I am from Dayotn, Ohio. 51 years old now. I am a buyer for a Elec. SupplyDist. here in Dayton. My E-mail address is skypark@erinet.com

My service aboard Forrestal was from May, 1966 to August, 1967. I wasassistant sales officer, S-3 Division, and was the Repair Party Officer for the hanger bay 3 repair party. When the fire bell rang, I was forward and ran the length of the hanger deck to my station. While on the way, GQ sounded and the hair raised up on the back of my neck. Just before I arrived at my station, a bomb blew through the flight deck and a fireball blossomed on the mezzanine of hanger bay 3, about 150' in front of me. My crew got a hose on it and contained it but the bay filled with smoke and began to get hot from the fire on the flight deck. This was troubling because there were armed aircraft in there. Another bomb went off and destroyed the two compartments directly above the repair locker and knocked just about every piece of equipment off the bulkheads. The hanger bay became untenable after a while and I released the dental technician, Foster, to the sick bay and the fire party to help out where they could.I shared a stateroom with LTjg Cates, EOD Officer and hours later, when Iwent to the stateroom after the fire was "out", I found what must have beenthe entire EOD crew asleep in my room. Later, when the fire rekindled in the berthing spaces, I helped to support relief hosemen until 2 AM by gettingthem outfitted with OBA's. I don't have the words to express my admiration for those of you on the fllight deck and others who fought the fire elsewhere. I didn't experience what you did but it still gets to me, after 30 years. About one week after Forrestal returned to the Phillipines, I received orders to Naval Ordnance Station, Indian Head, Md. and flew back to Maguire Air Force Base, N.J. While I was assigned to NOS the nitroglycerin plant blew up and another time two men were killed in a lab explosion. My son, Robert, is currently an ABH3, Air Dept, V-1 Division, working on the flight deck of USS Saipan (LHA-2). I invite any who wish to write me at 1728 Madison Ave, Evansville, In 47714.

I served on the USS Forrestal from Nov '68 to Sept '72. I was a GMG2 in 'G' Division working in the ship's armory. My primary resposibilites were magazine sprinkler system maintanence and repair. I also was a line gunner for refueling and other along-side details. When I got out of the Navy in '72, my wife and I moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida where I hired on with the phone company. After six years, I was transferred to Dublin, Ohio to teach hands-on training courses at the then AT&T National training center. In 1995, I moved to Bell Laboratories in Columbus, OH. as a software developer on a application software team. I've since retired from Lucent Technologies and plan to become a professional Dive Master with the Professional Association of Dive Intructors.. My E-mail address is wab@columbus.rr.com

Assigned to IOIC. I was onboard from September 1966, until we returned to Norfolk after the fire in the Gulf. I was then transferred to the Air Intelligence Office on the USS Shangri-La making a Med Cruise. Today, I have four children ages 17-21 and a terrific wife. I've been working on my doctoral thesis for three years and hope to finish it by next summer. My work is in education and policies for including people with disabilities. Since 1979, I am the Executive Director of the Lemberg Children's Center at Brandeis University, outside Boston.

-- Howard J. Baker

Served on the Forrestal from 1966-1969, onboard during the Tonkin Gulf fire. I now work for the USPS. E-mail:jhenry@silcom.com

I got orders to accompany Rear Admiral Lanham serving as a musician with the ComCarDiv Two Band. I was onboard on July 29, 1967 when the catastrophy took place. It is a day that I or any of the crew will never forget. It was a time of courage, bravery and sorrow for all of us who were there for one common goal...to serve our country. We, the crew of the Forrestal can be proud, as we served our country to the best of our ability that day. For those who gave their lives to this great country, I express sympathy to their families as I felt very close to death myself on that dreadful day. I also express gratitude to them and all the survivors. I feel certain that it was the teamwork of all that saved the ship from total destruction. 29 July 1967 1052H will be with me always! I am presently living in my hometown of Lebanon, PA and I am employed in commercial printing in the pre press department

I served aboard the USS Forrestal from December 1965 through August1969. On July 29th I was an AO2 and serving in the GM Division as lowerdeck magazine supervisor. My wife, Yvonne, was pregnant with our firstchild and fortunately I made it home for the birth of Dan Jr. A fewyears later we had a second son, Darrin and, as they say, the rest ishistory. For the past 28 years I have been working in the computer fieldand currently I am Manager of Information Technology for a Gas companyin Boston, Ma. e-mail at DBONO@CABOTLNG.COM

Served as member of OC Division during November 63, left upon return from the 64-65 Med Cruise. Worked as a Status Board Keeper, Air Controller, along with other duties. Really enjoyed the "side cleaner" detail in Cannes!! Hung out with "Harvey" from CA and Rick Leech from WV Gandy and Koenig [sic] from MO and Little from ??? I am retired from the Air Force (switched in 68), living in Sandy, UT and working for the Bureau Of Reclamation in Salt Lake City, UT. Would like to hear from anyone who was assigned to OC division during this time period. My e-mail gwheeler@uc.usbr.gov and Address: Jerry Wheeler, 8235 South 1000 East, Sandy, UT 84094-0737.

I served aboard the Forrestal from 1965until 1969. I was aboard during the fire in 1967. I was an InteriorCommunications Electrican (IC2). Saddness fills me as the memories of destruction and death return. Many heroes walked her decks 30 years ago. At the time, we were simply responding to the disaster, reacting without much consideration of the consequences. My GQ assignment was a repair locked on the 2nd deck near sick bay. As the fire broke out, I was returning from working on the bridge, repairing the captain's phone. During the trip to the mess decks, the fire notification was sounded, followed by general quarters. Once at the repair locker, the first 500 lb bombs exploded. We thought a Mig had got to us. Soon, the first casualties were brought by our location from the flight deck. Sailors suffering from burns and shrapnel wounds. We then learned the truth. I was amazed by the force felt on the ship with each set of explosions. We went up to hanger bay 3 to fight a fire that was behind the then closed hanger bay doors. We had to enter through the port and starboard hatches since the bay door was warped and would not open. The OBA locker was empty, so we entered without breathing gear. The smoke was so dense that we could not see much beyound an extended arm. Breathing was very difficult, so we used strips of our shirts to form a mask. I remember bumping into planes loaded with ordnance in hanger bay 3, since we could not see in the smoke, wondering would we really experience anything if there was a detonation. We fought a fire that was an orange glow aft in the bay, finally relieved by some others who were better equipped. You had tofollow the hose to get back to the hatch and exit. We went off to workin other areas, but the thing I remember was the difficulty acceptingwhat was happening. Fire fighting salt water found its way into thebattery locker that night and formed chlorine gas. Incredeble stories can be told of what we found on the 03level after the fire was extinguished, but I think some of theexperiences we brought home is more appropriately left in the past. Ihave a memory of standing in hanger bay 1 when we arrived in Subic witha shipmate, Bayle I think, as the fallen were carried ashore, salutingthe caskets. We were getting our first feel for how many had lost theirlives. It was a very poignant moment for two kids to witness. This web site is anexcellent tribute to a ship that was a significant part of our lives. Ithank all those involved for making it possible to remember the past andconnect with events that have formed the person we have become. Currently, I work as a manager at the Palo Verde nuclear power plant west of Phoenix Arizona. My email is barryd@primenet.com

IC2 Berthlett

Served onboard June 1967 TO August 1970. I was in charge of the IC room at the time of the fire, and took over the Power Shop a few days after the fire. I retired June 1 1974, and now live on lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Ar.

I served on the "Forrestal" from 1968 - 1972. I was an IC man for about 3 years...working on the interior communications...ship board communications such as telephones, intercoms, and sound powered systems. I made 2 1/2 Med trips and made IC2 before I ended my 4 years of duty. I enjoyed my stay on board along with the travel and the education that I received. I am married and have to two teenage boys. I have worked at IBM for the last 25 years in computer repair ...specializing in Point-of-Sale equipment. Anybody that knew me can contact me via E-Mail at: rperales@express-news.net

P.S. I look forward to someday visiting the "Forrestal" sometime in the near future.

I served aboard the FID from May 68 thru May 69, having just came off of five years of sea duty on DD`s and DE`s. I was very disapointed to recieve orders to a carrier and more sea duty. I will say that the year on board the FID was an eye opener. Never in my Navy career of eleven years at the time I reported aboard the FID was I treated with so much disrespect by Officers, Senior enlisted, and junior`s. I was left to stand on the quarterdeck for two hours waiting for some one from CR division to come and escort me to the CR Div office, a RM3 Lynch came and finaily lead me to the office, where a LCDR, two RMC`s and the RMCS told me that they did not know what they were going to do with me, as they had no room in the E-6 locker for me. It seems that the E-6 (there were six of them) had taken the top three bunks out and thrown them away so they could have more room in the compartment. Well bing a senior E-6 (five years in grade and 11 yrs in service) in told the E8 to move the junior E6 out of my "bunk and locker". Too make a long sory short, I found out that I had pass the Chief test and was slated to be make THE HAT...so I found a real sailor in the ships EO div who gave me a rack and locker in his spare compartment, where I stayed until I made Chief on Jan 16th 1969. The reception I receved, and the way I was treated during my year on board FID, was the worst in my 22 years in the Navy. I never went to sea again, I made sure of that.

I served on board from April 63 to Aug 5 1965. I started out in main comm and then ran the communications office until I got out. After almost 20 years in the telephone business I now am a ranch hand on a cattle ranch in north Fla. My address is:
A. H. Chidlow
Rt 2 Box 6075
Ft White Fl. 32038
email Achidlow@aol.com

I served aboard the USS Forestal in 1966-67 as a QM3 (Quartermaster 3rd class). I was scheduled to stand the port after-steering watch on July 29, 1967, but a buddy (James Blaskis) talked me into trading watches with him. I took his watch on the bridge and he went to after-steering at 07:45. At 10:52, I saw a plane catch fire on the flight deck and recorded the incident in the ship's log. The resulting explosions killed a lot of brave sailors that day. James was trapped below decks and died. He made the wall in Washinton and I made Life magazine.

Bob Shelton
bobshelton@prodigy.net

I am sending this in for my late father who served aboard from 63-65. He was LTJG James D. Quick at the time (I think that was his rank). He was in the medical field but I am not sure at what capacity. When he left the USS Forrestal, He was stationed in California. He retired in 1976 and died in 1983. He served in the Navy for 29 years. I am the only one of his seven kids that made the military my way of life. I am a retired SSG from the US Army. I joined the Army the same year that my dad retired from the Navy. The USS Forrestal is a great ship and I would love to someday see it again and show my kids (who think the USS North Carolina is the biggest ship ever). What a difference they would see in a real war deterrent.

Thank you very much for trying to preserve our history,
Claude L. Quick.

I served on the forrestal from 1964 to dec 1966. I was an electronic technician/radar ETR-3, I also worked with UHF/VHF communications. I now work for a school board as an electrician in Fairmont West Virginia.

Thank you,
Gary Holcomb

I served on the Forrestal from November 1960 until April 1964. Worked in OC Division and then transferrred to OP Div. Got out as a YN3. Worked for the Dupont Co in explosives manufacturing and research. Retired after 30 years with Dupont and now am working in environmental remediation and doing explosives consulting. I'm married and have two sons. One is a police officer and the other is a Marine. I've packed away my Forrestal material in storage awaiting the completion of our new home. I can be contacted by Email at KERSHAWC@Prodigy.net. God grant the Forrestal continued life!

I Served in E division from 1960-61 and in V6 division from 1961-63. I worked the gyroscope and repaired telephones during my first cruise to the Mediterranean in 1961. My most memerable moment came when I met Pope John. I spent my second cruise to the Mediterranean in 1962 working the fresnel lens. Unfortunately, I saw many near misses and crashes in this assignment. I currently reside in Milford, CT and can be contacted via either ddixon7183@aol.com or carl.f.richter@snet.net.

I served on the Forrestal from 1965 through July 29, 1967 at 10:53am. I had been a flight director aft however as a result of an accident some weeks before the fire resulting in a crushed right-hand I was operating a starter tractor on the morning of the fire. On that morning I was on the very aft end of the deck starting F-4s and just before the first explosion I was called forward to start the Vigilante's near the island. Just after hooking up to the first Vigilante I heard a "WHOOSH" followed by an explosion. I saw the A-4 behind the aft cat explode. I ran to the crew locker, grabbed a PKP fire bottle and ran to the fire. I saw men on fire, bombs on the deck surrounded by fire, I saw HELL in the making. There was a 1000 lb. bomb laying on the deck surrounded by burning fuel. I emptied the extinguisher to no avail. Several feet away from me was my flight deck Chief Farrier who also had an extinguisher and was applying it right on the bomb. Suddenly there was an explosion, Chief Farrier disappeared, I felt like I was going to come apart as the bombs concussion and shrapnel hit me. I was blown into the air, out of my shoes and helment and struck by shraphel in the left shoulder, stomach, arms, and head. Ultimately I was evacuated to the USS Oriskany, then to the USS Repose (hospital ship), DaNang, the Phillipines, Bethesda, and Great Lakes. Hospitalized for a year. In 1972 after returning to civilian duties I was medically retired. Two years ago I was hospitalized and recognized as suffering all these years with the memories, nightmares and HELL of that day called PTSD. I will be on medication and therapy forever. I have been a honored police officer, insurance investigator, and today an operations manager for a security company. I would like to communicate with any of the surviving crew members. e-mail me at: JOAKES5401@aol.com

GOD bless

Was onboard for the Med cruise in 1968, departed the ship 20 Dec 1968 in Genoa, Italy. Current occupation is wastewater treatment plant operator foreman. I was on Intrepid during the fire on Forrestal, I saw the ship burning from a distance and it really hit home when I saw thedocumentary. God bless all hands on board.

Talk about memories! I had the very distinct priviledge to serve aboard the FORRESTAL from June 1963 until April 1966. I was an ABH2, I was for a time a yellow-shirt in fly3 then I replaced ABH1, named Kibler as the REP8 petty officer. I served in that billet until one night in the fall of 65 (in the Med), during a strike-Ex a heavy (A-3 SkyWarrior) rolled backward, gear in the catwalk, belly flat on the deck with engines running. I was coming up from mid-rats, heard the racket and to make a very interesting story short, I jumped into "Tilly", and we saved the airplane. But in so doing I summarily wiped 4 windows and 5 window wipers off the Flag Bridge. I then spent the rest of my days as a MAA. Please feel free to E-mail me back (trfox@swbell.net). By the way, I saw Mike Hamptons name on the list, another long but very interesting story there too!

I was a Weapons Technician assigned to W Division. I am currently an instrumentation technician for General Electric Co. Email: mboi@wilmington.net

Served onboard from October 1966 to July 1968. I managed all ship's company enlisted personnel transfers. I still feel blessed that my GQ station on July 29, 1967 was far forward at the 03 level as a telephone talker at a battle dressing station. Since my two year naval career, I earned a business management degree in Texas, married and divorced in Colorado, and now live about 30 miles north of Seattle, WA. I'm currently employed as Master Scheduler for Rane Corporation, a professional audio manufacturer (www.rane.com). All old friends and/or ex-officemates, please contact me at: holidays@webtv.net or (425) 513-6209 or 355-6000.

Assigned to the phot division to photograph all take-off and landings of aircraft. First to use TV record them. August 1962 TO May 1966.

Around March 1967, I swapped onto the Forresral from the Independence while we were both in the yards. The Indy had just come in from a Med cruise. I swapped with an EM school buddy that was on the Forrestal. He did not want to go on a West-Pac and I wanted to go on a West-Pac. I was assigned to the Power Shop, E-Division. A week or so before the fire, I was TDY assigned to a night shift crew and Bob Leonburg, EM2 (AKA "Leo") took my GQ station while I was TDY. My GQ station was the Aft Port Steering unit. Leo was killed on that July 1967 morning on his way to take my GQ station, and Ken Fasth, EMFN (AKA "Speedy") and two other watch standers were killed in the Port Aft steering unit. Only God knows why it happened as it did and I was spared. I live in Damascus, Maryland, have been married 26 years and we have three wonderful children. I do a lot of volunteer work for our church and community and I am an Inspector for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, D.C. I just recently found this home page and would like to hear from my old shipmates. My internet E-Mail address is: jjp1@nrc.gov.

I found Forrestal's web site quite nostalgic. I served 68-71 and made 3 Med cruises, I worked in the R-DIV pipe shop. A miserable job but only the good times are remembered, I'm looking forward to joining the association.

Served on the Forrestal with the marine squadron VMF(AW)451 from Beaufort, S.C., the Warlords did a Med cruise late August 1965 to the end of March 66.

I Had the distinct honor to have served in OI Division of the greatest ship in the navy from 1968 to 1972 BEST TO ALL MY FELLOW CREWMATES.

Served: March 1966 - October 1969
Duties: Flight deck crew V2 Division
Now resides in Bryson City, NC.
Employed by Inspirations Quartet

My name is Janeen Jimenez, and my brother served on the Forrestal. He was Gary E. Newby. This is very hard for me to do even now. Gary diedon the ship in the accident in 67. I have been trying to get the nerve to send this not, because it is still very painful...

I would like to know if anyone in the association knew him, and maybe I could talk to them or email them.

I am glad that the men that died have not been forgotten. If there is anyone that remembers Gary, please let me know. My email address is: janeen@inreach.com

Thank you,

Janeen

Stationed aboard the Forrestal 66-68, originally was in the 5th division until after the fire. That was the division responsible for the 5"54 guns that were aft port and starboard. The guns were wiped out in the fire, after arriving in the Portsmouth Yards, we were transferred to PD Division (the missile launcher). I then subsequently transferred to G-division, until separation in 1 October of 68. I would really like to hear from other 5th division shipmates that were on the Forrestal at that time. I am currently employed with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the Treasury Department where I have worked for the last 28 years. e-mail me at billg972@ptd.net

1967-1969, Main Communications Supervisor. Now retired RMC USCG and retired Digital Equipment Technician for GTE. My E-mail address is: richard.keller@mci2000.com

Served aboard from 1967 untill 1969. Currently employed by Honeywell Military Avionics Division in Mpls, MN.

Served 1961-1964 in MMR1, oil lab, retired as a BTC in 1979.

I was on the Forrestall from 1963-66 I was in aviation and I was a CPO, I am now retired from 22 years as a master chief and I again retired from the postal service.

Duties included G Division leading chiefand Weapons Department leading chief. Today I own a sporting goodsbusiness in Tifton, Georgia. I served on the Forrestal from 1965 TO 1967.

I was a member of the "world famous Red Rippers" VF-11 in 1967.I had a hard time watching the show on the Discovery Channel because of all the good friends I lost and will never forget. I hope the shipwill not be scrapped. We saved it once in Vietnam and I hope we can save it again. Hello to all the VF-11 and VF-74 shipmates out there. Also Capt.Beling, Lt. Jim Campbell & Lt. Flack logan. I now own my own graphics & printing company after working 20 years for Xerox as a service rep. Lets hear from the VF members. Gary Johnson-you were not the rowdyist in the squadron, me, Jay Moore, Doug Lenza & John Haberly were worse. Where is Joe Cook and Tim Michelfelder?

Richard Staff AMH3 (guitar player)
Yorkshire Graphics
X5765@AOL.COM

Served aboard 1967-1970 as a AME-2, Aviation Structural Mechanic and now employed by Wawa Dairies in the Transportation Dept.

I served in FORRESTAL from July 1964 to July1968. I was a PN1 at the time serving my shipmates in the PersonnelOffice on the 2nd Deck. As soon as I reported onboard we made a MedCruise and came back to Norfolk in March 1965. We left again in August1965 for another 7 months, coming back in 1966. After spending sometime in the yards and making various Caribbean cruises and local ops, wedeparted for the South China Sea, stopping off at Rio and Subic Bay. After the fire we returned to Subic for some repairs and then steamedback to Norfolk. I departed FORRESTAl the following year, havingvolunteered for Vietnam where I served one year with NSA, Saigon. Iretired from the Navy in March 1979 as a PNCM and I'm completely retirednow. I devote most of my time serving my shipmates in Norfolk Branch 5,Fleet Reserve Association and currently hold the position as NationalVice President Fleet Reserve Association 1997-98.

Was on 2 Med Cruises ( '62-63) ('64-65). Was onboard during the Cuban Blockade, andthe 1964 New York Worlds Fair. I am a member of the Forrestal Reunion Assoc. ( # 107). I am now working in the Beverage Industry as a Field Service Rep. My wifeand I reside in Eustis, Fl. EMail address : MJohns4502@aol.com

Flew AD-6's (later A1H) with VA-85, early memories are of the first night vfr operations, andthe first attempts at floodlights on the flightdeck. First ones were red, then later white...hadAir Wing 8 had a great reputation, lots of flying, lost a few airplanes, but very few pilots..dorecall the extended cruises of 9 to 10 months. Presently, retired from Delta Airlines, and Pan American World Airways.

Kit C. Sanders
Rt 5, Box 38AA
Hereford, Texas 79045 clipper@iname.com

I was a PT1 on the Forrestal from the years 1960 through Jan. 1964. I made two Med cruises and several Air-qual cruises. One of my most memorable things about my time was spending my 21'stbirthday in Cuba at the Naval station when we were on shakedown cruise after coming out of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. I still keep in contact with Don Dubuque & Phil Ketchum. You can e-mail me at mkelley@sheltonbbs.com

Assigned to "R" division. Shipfitter. I served from Oct "66" to Oct "68".Went on board in Portsmouth Va, shipyard in "66" Worked in shipfitter shop. Duties on board, work in shop , walk "DC" patrols. I was on board forcruises to Cuba and Rio.....(Remember). Became "Shellback" on way toVietnam. I remember the fire in "67" and will never forget. I was onstation in the pump room forward. Went to my "G. Q" station and helped toput out fire in hanger bay. Got off ship in Sept. "68" in Malta. I am nowresiding in Lakeland, Fl. I would like to hear from anyone from "R"division. Hope to see all at the "98" reunion.

1332 Magdalene Ct. E.
Lakeland, Fl. 33801
(941) 667-1873

I served in vietnam during the tragic fire. Iwas a Machinist Mate Third Class working in the A-6 Division with theLiquid Oxygen Nitrogen Group. I was in Hanger Bay #3 during the fire withmy life jacket on, and I don't think that there is day that goes by inwhich this tragic event doesn't cross my mind. The point of my letter isto contact some fellow crewmates to see how they are doing and to share oldand new memories. I served from 1967 to 1970.

Larry Couch
375 coovert Street
Columbus,Indiana 47201
812-372-0913
email- perdue@hsonline.net

My father (Peter G. Cox) was a chief and worked on theflight deck of Forrestal, he was killed in an accident on March 5,1962, during an arresting cable failure. I am very pleased to hear of theefforts to save the ship, and hope some day to have the opportunity to walkher decks, though I know it will be difficult, even some 35 years later. Ilive near and work in Baltimore and would be pleased with either proposedsite. If there are any of you who served with my father and/or knew him mybrothers and I would welcome correspondence. I can be reached atpgcox@aol.com. Thank You.

Peter G. Cox Jr.

I served aboard from 1964-1967. I was assigned to theAviation Ordance shop. Since I left the Navy I have worked as an Electricianfor several different companies. My training I received in the Navy as anelectrician has made me a comfortable living. I was on board at the time ofthe fire and can remember it very clearly even though 30 years have passed.Mye-mail address is CWLSN@aol.com

Served on Forrestal 1966 - 1970. Worked in after IC room. Retired inMay 1970. Currently living in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

The time I served on board was from Sept. 66 thruNov. 69. Cruises: Gitmo 66, Westpac, Gitmo 68, Med 68 - 69. I was theFirst Planned Maintenace Coordinator, and eventually worked my way into4MMR. Awarded Letter of Commendation from the CO of the ship formeritorious performance of duty during the fire of 29 July 67. PastChairman of the USS Forrestal Task Force which evolved into the USSForrestal Museum, Inc. Life Member of the USS Forrestal Assn., #575.Resides in Abingdon, MD with my wife of 26 years and two daughters.Feel free to contact me at feurice@erols.com!

Served onboard from 25 may 1967 to 25 July 1968, assigned to CS divisonsignalman second. While onbard I met a man from close to my hometown SNW.D. Collins, on 22July he celebrated his 21 birthday, on july 29, I had justgotton off watch on the signalbridge, collins and I had breakfesttogether,after the fire I tried to locate him, only to find out that he wasmissing. There is a nice memorial in front of the county courthouse in Paris,Kentucky with his name on it. Most people just walk by, but I always stopand say hello. After my fourth tour in Vietnam my last being a navaladvisor. I was stationed at a small naval reserve training center inVirginia, I always thought the worst thing I would ever experience was thefire onboard. I soon learned different, when I went to a home one night toinform a mother that her son had been killed in action. We all know how badit was for us that day. But few of us truely know how bad it was for thefamily members at home.

Martin A. Taylor, SM2, USN
Cynthiana, Ky.