The 80's (page 2 of 2)Hello yall. name is Vince, I served onboard FID from Feb 86 to May 91 as Comm Dept LCPO. This was the best tour of my career. Many memories, many friends, both black shoes and brown, some of my best friends on FID! for those of you who made MARS phone calls it was I who done that!! remember the "overs"? I miss that. Now the modern navy is using computers like we are right now!! isnt it great? the many signals officers that passed through my divison and made it, I congratulate you!! please keep in touch. e- mail address is vroebuckjr@aol.com. I'm still in Jacksonville and I work in heating and air conditioning. My stint aboard FID was from Feb88-Feb89, not very glorious. I had to extend ayear to get off Kitty Hawk and FID was the shortest extension. As part of WDivision I had an attitude and was removed from the PRP and all the nuclearfun. I was then assigned to G-4 Weps Elevators for the remainder of my tour. What a turn around, I am now a father of three, married 10 years (samewoman), I am a lineman with Florida Power Corporation based out of Clearwaterand I am a platoon sergeant (Sergeant First Class/E-7) for a Stinger airdefense platoon in the Florida Army National Guard. Funny how I dont remember the hard times as much as the fun ones, but some things will never change, my attitude remains.E-Mail: j.m.feltman@worldnet.att.net It's great to have a place to talk to old
friends about the gool ol'days. I flew from Rota, Spain to Sigonela, Italy,
then took a Helo to the FID.Arrived during a General Quarters. Pretty Cool!
When I first heard the seawiz fire, I thought the ship was being ripped in
two! During First Medcruise I saw Naples and Benidorm, etc., Made the Blue
Nose-NorthAtlantic. Remember AnnFjiord? How about the 30-40 foot draws we
took?Anyone in a forward berthing won't forget it! I went aboard the FID in September 1984 while she was stationed in dry docks inPhiladelphia, PA. I was an ABEAN fresh out of "A" school in Lakehurst, NJ when Iarrived at the dock I asked a guy "hey do you know where I can find the Forrestal"the guy looked at me like some ricky recruit and replied " if you were any closer itwould run ya over" I saw what appeared to be a huge building with pipes and hosesrunning throughout and thought to myself, that's a ship and wondered what thehell I got my self into. I spent the next three and half years on the FID and can say itwas one of the best expiriences of my life. I met alot of good friends whom I stillhave frequent contact with, Duano, Bufford, whizz, Tommy T. I would like to knowwhere Bobby Elek, Paul Parisi, Arnold Espinoza and the rest of of the "boyz"disappeared too. I see a few names on the roster that I recognize but have lost trackof. Chris Woodring alias "woody", party on dude. you sure made Philly a great timebud, and you were right about the Jersey girls. I worked my way through the ranksand tasks of V-2 Division "waist cat's" and when I made ABE3 I was assigned as cat 4'stopside safety petty officer for the 86 Med cruise. I got out of the navy right afterthe stop in New Orleans '88 Mardi Gras. I'm currently a detective with the GranvillePolice Department. I'm married with two girls and our third child on the way. I joinedthe navel reserve in 1997 and I'm a MA2 out of Navel Reserve Center Glens Falls, NY. I'malso a member of the Forrestal Association and look forward to meeting withthose I served with aboard FID at future reunions. Until then "party on dudes". I canbe e-mailed at detective103.hotmail.com.
Served aboard the USS Forrestal from
July 81-June 82. Departed as theship was leaving for a Med. cruise. I was
sent to Cleveland, OH where Iretired 31 July '82. I went to work for another
government agency inJune '83 and finally retired for real in April '94. I am
presently theVice President and Editor for the newsletter of an association
calledthe PBR Forces Veterans Association, Inc. We are the men that served
inSouth Vietnam on River Patrol Boats (PBR) and patrolled the small canalsof
the country. Our membership is comprised mainly of U.S. Navypersonnel that
served on PBR or units in support of the PBRs. We alsowelcome members of the
U.S. Army in the 458th Transportation Co. Ourhome page on the internet is at
http://www.pbr-fva.org. You are welcometo visit our home page for additional
information or you may e-mail meat rmcm@bright.net. Good luck to all that
served the FID. B-Div/oil shack served from 4-80 to 12-80the FID was my last duty stationnow I'm a journeyman machinist living in Jacksonville, Fla. E-mail norton@mediaone.net I was the Staff Judge Advocate (the ship'slawyer) for the FORRESTAL from about July 1986 to August 1988, as aLieutenant Commander in the JAG Corps. I left the Navy in 1992,although I am still active in the Naval Reserve. I am a civilianattorney in Bedford, Texas (which is in the Dallas-Fort Worthmetroplex). My email address is: donatty@flash.net I was stationed aboard the FID from
1981-1985. I made the 82 MED cruisein V-1 Div. as a tractor driver, and then
onto Philly for the durationof SLEP. I worked as a electrician in Rehab dept.
Went onto Rota, Spainfor another 4 yrs. Anyways, it was a great experience to
be on board the FID, met alot ofinteresting people. Hey Chris Woodring
"WOODY" think hard You"llremember me. The experience that I
gained from being on the FID has helped me gaina truly enjoyable job in the
civilian world. To all those who remember me I'd sure enjoy hearing from
you.May this great "SHIP" carry on! I now reside just outside
Atlanta, Ga. and loving it! I served onboard the FID from March
1986 to March 1988. I was assigned to the Legal Office, X-1 division. I
worked with LCDR Thomas Greene, LCDR Don Davidson, LT Greg Chapman, LT Ben Jones,
LNC Terry Moore, LNC Jim Sterling, LN1 Mike Hardy, as well as YN3 John Sims
and PN3 Charles "AL" Turner (AL made the mistake of telling us he
didn't like to be called AL, he preferred Charles. We never called him
Charles after that!). Of course, I
could never forget LN1 Lou Labauve J!
We had a great time in that office. I miss the late-night poker games and the
friendships I made back then. I’m working as a software analyst today, and
can be reached at 05hd9nf02@sneakemail.com I served aboard the FID while attached to the VA-37 Bulls from 1985-1988. I have alot of fond memories of the lady, and I can say I truly miss her. At the present time she is in Middletown, Rhode Island docked next to the USS Iowa, and the USS Saratoga. I currently work for the US postal service in Boston, Mass. I was glad to see so many pages dedicated to this warrior and her crew. I served aboard with VF-31 from July 86 to May 91. I have a few pictures I can share via snail mail, mostly flight deck but one or two of the O3 level passageways. I was an AT3 when I reported aboard in Palma (July 17, 1986), took my first rating exam in VF-31's ready room (03-54-1-Q) and made second from it. I spent most of my time in the IWT shop (03-74-10-Q, right above the Tbolt's AQ shop) but did the 90/91 cruise as DCPO. I remember the DC2 who ran DC Support (and his Aussie helper,never call him a Brit!), I hope the Navy gave him some new teeth on his way out. I am still active duty with Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic as an AT1 now. Good times, great ship, I look forward to seeing her again as a museum. I served onboard The USS Forrestal from 1988 until 1993. I was a member of the A-gang, hydraulics shop, keeping the elevators going up and down, andkeeping the ship steered in the right direction. I did the IO cruise in '88(Remember those 108 straight days of non-stop fun) and two Med cruises. Imiss the good times and bad that I had while serving, and the good friends Imade while onboard the FID. I was happy to find out about the home page.Some of the names brought back a lot of memories (yea. I'm talking about youMr. Sadler).
Served on board CV59 from Nov 85- May
91, assigned o4MMR, 3MMR, and Oil Lab. Email:bt1swusn@aol.com Served aboard 3/89 - 2/92, made the last two deployments. I worked on NATOSeasparrow, CIWS, and MK 23 TAS. She was my favorite ship. Retired as FCCS(SW) 2/98. I've been taking it easy for the past year in Tuscaloosa, AL.retfccs@aol.com I served a short time on the CV-59
when the Saratogawent to dry dock in 1981. Although I was on board for the
cruise in 81it was definately memorable. I served as an electricians mate 3rd
classand sttod most of my watches as a assistant load dispatcher. I
reallydidn't do much for I was being discharged in May of 81 and
reallycouldn't wait to get home to Texas. The Navy is hard when you havespent
3 1/2 years with your buddies on another ship and you are sentaway on your
last months for not extending. But hey I survived. TodayI work in Quality
Contol for Lockheed Martin Vought Systems (FormerlyLTV Aerospace and Defense,
Loral Missile Systems) I guess once in thedefense business you just can't
escape it. I reported to the Forrestal on Jan 1, 1986. I worked in OI Division. I did 2Med cruises and also got the chance to experience the 108 day voyage that somany of us could have done without. I left the Forrestal in June 1989 and nowwork on a natural gas production platform in the Gulf of Mexico. My e-mailaddress is HalePat@aol.com I served on the FID from 1984-1987. I'm the one rsponsible for givingthe Bridge the purple paint job after the 1986 Med cruse.I'm now ateacher at a high school in my home town of Erie P.A. I'm married withtwo great childern. Life is good but from time to time I think of mytime on the Forrestal and the great people I worked with. Just one moretime I would love to here a good Captin's Mast from the Chart Room.Gods speed to all. On board 6/87 to 6/91 / ABH2 in V-3 Div. as DCPO, A/C Dir., LPO.Departed as ABH1 transfering to NAS Pensacola, Sherman Field.Made Chief Sept '92. Trans. to USS Boxer (LHD-4) as the Crash &Salvage Chief/ V-3 LCPO 6/94 to 10/98. Now assigned to NAS JRB Ft Worth as Retired Affairs Officer.(phone #: (817)782-5442, (DSN) 739-) I served on the Forrestal From Feb 1984 until Sept 1985. I was discharged as a MS3. My duties were aft galley and bake shop watch capt. I also worked in the chiefs mess as thier cook. I was on board theFID for the SLEP the whole time, it was in the pPiladelphia Naval ShipYard. I am now working as a Philadelphia Police officer working out ofphiladelphia police 19th District. The Forrestal was a great ship and I had made a lot of friends in thetime I was on board. Email me at chakakhan@erols.com I served on board the FID from 1983-87.
Although it has been over 10 years since I served on this ship, I still feel
as if I am part of the Forrestal family and that a part of me will always
beon that ship. There is a certain feeling that comes over me when a
thinkabout "my ship" and how much I loved being on her. To be
perfectly honest mytime in the Navy was at times long, arduous, and
frustrating but I have nothingbut fond memories and pride when it comes to
the USS Forrestal and the greatservicemen I worked with. I miss everyone and
of course the ship itself. Myemail address is alacevedo@aol.com. I hope that
any cooks that were on boardthe FID with me during this period will see this
and will contact me. After serving 6 1/2 in the Navy, I transfered to VAW-122 in April of85, deployed on the Fighting FID, where I got my first real taste of sealife. I made the 108 days in the IO, the pleasure cruise of 86, amongothers until I tranferred out in March of 89. I met a lot of greatpeople there, both wing and ships company. I guess you could say theFID helped me to grow up. I started there as an AZ2 and I sewed on first in 87. If I couldserve another 20 years, I would love to spend my entire career on a shiplike to FID. Even if there are small fires every now and then. 2 1/2minutes to put a fire out on and A-6 ain't bad at all. To all of thosewho were involved, Thanks. To all the others that helped me out while Iwas there, Thanks and God Speed. Upon retirement, I went to work for a major Supermarket chain inFlorida and am currently the Frozen Food Manager. I am currentlyseeking my CDL and hope to tranfer to the transportation branch for thesame chain. Any crew member from VAW-122 during '85-'89 who would like tocontact me, I can be reached at rcrowdus@bellsouth.net. By the way, George helped me decom the America in '96. The Fighting FID will sail on in my heart, mind and sole forever. I served onboard the "Mighty
FID" for two tours. The first was straight from boot camp (11/81 until
12/25) and the second was after "A" school and a short stint in
Groton, CT (08/87 until 05/88). I was an "A-ganger" the whole time
except when in Philly (Fire Watch Division). Started in the Steam Heat shop
(LPO was MM1 Kenny South). Also did time in the A/C & R shop, The Hydraulics
Shop, and eventually the Boat Shop. Since my days on Forrestal, I've done a
year limited duty at NAS JAX, real short (4 month) tour on USS ENGAGE
(MSO-433), over 6 years on USS JOHN L. HALL (FFG-32), OAKRIDGE (ARDM-1), and
am now stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, GA. Anybody that wants to
contact me can at toadfrog15@hotmail.com or phone (912) 576-8130. I worked in the V-2 division office for
the first two years then went to the arresting gear for the remainder of my
time. I made two deployments. 1988 was the Med and Indian Ocean and the 89 -
90 was another Med cruise. Served aboard Forrestal from 3/89 till 10/93 in V-1 Div/Crash & Salvage.Made 2 Med Cruise Deployments (including last one, Med 91) Fleet Week in New York, New Orleans, St. Thomas, and Bermuda. Reassigned to Pensacola FL as AVT-59 untill 10/4/93 when I departed FIDin Philadelphia dry docks. I left the Navy and returned home to Southeast Kansas and my family, Iam a full time professional firefighter for the city I live in. I look back sometimes at the things we went through during that time. CWO3 "Air Bos'n" Don Johnson not only did you teach us how to be our best, youwere a good friend, Chief Flecher, Chief Long, you two tought us many valueble lessons I still use today. Gary Kirkland ABH1 LPO of Crash and Salvage was like a father to us all, burying you at sea was one of the toughest things. Rock, Dave, Joe, Kirk, Rod, John, Geoff, Curtis and Bobby, we were one hell of a team. Lord help us if we all ever got together again. Oh, and Tony... you STILL owe me 20 bucks! I steamed with the BEST !!! USS FORRESTAL
CV-59 from 1981 - 1985 in #3MMR.I had some great times then and some great
memories now. I found some of the old crew, we got together and had a blast!
Thanks for the sign on, good luck to the FID. Any Snipes still out there
E-Mail me at: haslambk@worldnet.att.net I was assigned to VA-176 aboard the mighty FID from 85-88. I was aboard for several memorable cruises including the Mardi Gras, North Atlantic, and of course the 108 day consecutive at sea MED/IO cruise. The old girl was a place that molded me and taught me the meaning of a hard day's work!!! I am currently a firefighter/paramedic in Henderson, Nevada(greater Las Vegas valley). I am happily married with two children who enjoy my stories of being at sea aboard the Forrestal. may God bless all of those who served aboard her and their families. My emailis morr4lv@gateway.net Served from March 1984 to August 1987. I arrived onboard the FID during it's SLEP period in Philadelphia, PA in March of 1984. After the overhaul was done we went on some shakedown cruises off the coast of Virginia then in May of 1985 we headed to our homeport of Mayport, Fl. I was on one Med-Cruise in 1986....many shakedown cruises prior to that. I was in the V-4 Division, fueled/defueled aircraft, worked in V-4 Repair Shop performing maintenance on pumps, valves, hoses, fueling nozzles and hose reels. Also, ended up a the Quality Control Supervisor, supervised crewman that worked in the QA Lab. We took samples of aviation fuel, tested them for water, sediment, specific gravity and flash point......thank you very much for this site....when I see pictures of her just sitting, I want to cry....a part of me is in her and she will always be in me!! I was onboard the USS Forrestal from December 1980 - January 1985 and servedas the Public Affairs Officer, the P- Forward Division officer, and theAuxilaries Division Officer. Had the pleasure to serve under Capt.Armstrong, Capt. Lee, and Capt. Marsh -- the Cheng was Capt. Tobin. All wereexcellent Officers, and inspiring leaders. Stood most of my watches on theBridge (eventually became underway OOD and SWO qualified). My mostmemoriable experiences are of standing underway bridge watches at nightwhile launching planes -- man was that cool! I loved conning the ship --the FID really was a responsive vessel. The one thing you really had tokeep in mind was the large sail area when turning "into the wind." Iimagine the first few times I made a few airdales a little nervous (not tomention Capt. Armstrong) when the "bubble" began to creep over too far.Meals were always a treat underway. We had the "dirty shirt" ward room upforward where we could go, relax, and eat, or there were the more "formal"ward rooms below decks. Most of the time I ate with the air dales up inward room one. Food was great, although I will never know why they servedsoup when we were in that hurricane returning from the last med cruise. Iloved Philly -- thought it was even better when finally got base housing anddid not have to drive accross the Walt Whitman bridge twice a day!!!! Iresented having to give up good men to the Rapid Response Team, and I reallyresented having to give up good men to Fire Watch!!! I am now a SeniorNetwork Engineer with a consulting firm in Cincinnati, Ohio where I workwith the planning, deployment, and support of Microsoft Windows NT basenetworks. I am also a Microsoft Certified Trainer and teach at a local CTEC.I have contributed to 4 books (Windows 95, 98, NT workstation and NTserver). The last was in the MCSE for Dummies series on NT Server in theEnterprise. I miss the Navy, however, I really would not like being awayfrom my wife for those 6 month med cruises. I would love to hear from oldshipmates at ewilson@one.net
I was a member of the Itchin' Bitchin'
Steeljaws of VAW-122 from November '87 to January '92. I managed to be
blessed with three deployments during that time. Naturally, I remeber the 108
days, the pair of warm Amstels and the laundry that never seemed to get
caught up. Once I left the FID two weeks after her last cruise, I went to
NATTC Millington. There I taught AV(A1) and AVSI(A1), and made AT1(AW). After
that tour, I joined VAW-124 for deployments on the Theodore Roosevelt and the
John F. Kennedy. Not a day went by on those ships when Joe Balsamo (a former
T-bolt) and I would comment on how we missed the ol' FID. The ship/airwing
team seemed just a little tighter than all we have seen since. In April of
'99 I reported to Commanding Officer, Naval Aviation Depot, North Island, CA,
where I will be for the next three years. The closest I can get to reliving
FID-ness now is looking at the carrier pier outside my office window whenever
the Connie is in town. Let's hope our old home finds a home of her own soon. I served on the Forrestal from Jan of 1987 to May of 1990 with VS-28out of Cecil Field, FL. Went on the NATO Cruise of '87, attached to Line Div., Indian OceanCruise 88. Attached to Power Plant Shop with AD1 Perkins. Pleasure Cruise89-90. Attached to AIMD Buddy Stores with AE1 Gore. Transfered to VS-27Power Plants from May of 1990 to May of 1993. Currently working for Arkansas National Guard as a 31F (radiooperator). CO.B 212th SIG. BN. Benton, AR.Long Live FORRESTAL!!! I was on the Forrestal from May of '80 to May '84. I first worked in B&M storeroom in 2 AMR. Then I worked in the catapult steam shop, and then 3MMR. I was on the '81 and '82 Med Cruises and transited Suez Canal. In the last couple of years, I've become interested in looking up a few of my shipmates, and when my girlfriend found this site, we decided to take advantage of it. In particular, I am interested in finding BT2 Michael Young. We spent a lot of time "on the beach" together in Spain and Italy. I'd also like to find FN Heffelfinger, and FN Tommy Swinson. If you guys are out there, please e-mail me at lonebear1@yahoo.com I was on board the FID from Oct86 until Jan 90. I worked in 4MMR and worked my way up to standing console operator. My best port of call was either Marti Gras or Benidorm, Spain. What ever happened to all the guys in 4MMR? Hey Andrew Korniak write me a letter if you read this. Remember this FID Sailors, there will BENO more stations like we had in "88". I am currently living in Massillon, Ohio and work as a CNC Machinist at a factory that makes hydraulic valves and pumps for heavy equipment. If anyone would like to contact me my Email is rlh966@aol.com I was the ship's public officer from
1987 through 1989 and survived theinfamous IO deployment thanks to some great
shipmates. Two things I seementioned quite frequently are comments about Lt
jg Chris Cali and "George"the Ghost. I served aboard Forrestal from 84 to
87. Greetings to those who suffered the humiliation of the Philly shipyard
SLEP. I served AIMD shop 3 charlie ships company. To those who prepared our
meals.. good job. I never ate so good. The FID truly was an amazing ship with
an outstanding crew. To those still serving keep up the good work. Have a
great day. Served onboard FID from 1983-1987. I was a Boot out of "A" School and theFID was my first choice of duty. Dry-docked in Philly undergoing SLEP itwas a perfect fit as I was from Havertown, PA only 35 minutes away. Iworked the Aft Galley, FWD Galley, CPO Mess, Food Service Office, and theSupply Office. Did GTMO and the Med Cruise. I look at the nuclearcarriers and am thankful that THE MIGHTY FID wasn't one of them. I enjoyedpulling in to Naples how many times - 3? Oh well great memories and hope tohear from anyone that served around the same time frame. Today I am marriedwith two wonderful children living in Maplewood, NJ working for AT&TBusiness Markets Division in the Data Environment. Email:btrowbridge@att.com Served on the Forrestal from March 88 to December 90. V-2 DIV. BOW-CATS. I remember the best group of guys I've ever had the privlage to work with, through good times and bad. I'm always looking for members of the CAT 2 CREW. So if you're out there get in touch with me at.... ROBERG 316@aol.com Served aboard the FID for almost 4 years from September 88 to Sep 92.I left just prior to the Philadelphia trip. I first worked in V-3 Division, then moved on to V-0 Division. What a simple fun life it was. I married last September in Las Vegas. No kids yet, thank god. I work as a technician for a electromagnetic (EMC) test Facility. Ironically, the fire in 67 was caused by this phenomenon. I have many great memories of the Forrestal. If anyone would like to contact me feel free to e-mail me at mstone@lsr.com. Served on board the mighty FID 11/79-10-82. OP Div LCPO. now retired and residing in Orange Park, Fl. This tour was a challenge- good times and bad times. I think of this time often. My e-mail is wbcoman@fdn.com I served on the FID from Nov86 through Dec 89. I started out my tour as a "no-load" DKSR working in the Disbursing Office, but a little persuasive "FID style" leadership straightened me out. I'm now assigned to 2D Marine Aircraft Wing, Cherry Point NC. I still remember the days in BENO station (108 to be exact) with that crazy LT (I can't recall the name) doing the closed circuit TV show and Master Chief Shulman doing "Ask the Chief". I really miss those days.
Served (2 tours) 06/77 thru 06/81 and 11/84
thru 12/89
My first cruises. Europe was awesome! I
Made three cruises during thistour. In addition the tropical Caribbean
Islands were FANTASTIC. I mustsay I enjoyed Jamaica the best. I traded my
American currency for a chainlink necklace of plastic bananas. The bananas
were then used (one link at atime) to pay for food, drink and other amenities
as needed. The hotels,Discotechas and beaches in Europe were always inviting.
I remember and willnever forget the Daiquiri Palace on Palma De Malorca (an
Island off thecoast of Spain). Valencia, Spain completed their pier to enable
the MightyWarship Forrestal to go pier-side. Two weeks of holiday Bask Women,
and myfirst taste of Sangria made at table side. Marseilles, France joining
inthe singing Christmas carols with some local French youths (they
weresinging in French) I sang in English and was invited to visit and spend
afew days and nights with some locals during the holiday season. The
treatedme like royalty. Last but not least we were a trail ship for the
newCracker Jack Sailor Blues & Whites. I still have them
My last three cruises. The North
Atlantic. The GLORIOUS FIORDS off Norwayso beautiful. Traveling full astern
during battle simulations so thatmyself and the crew of 1MMR could uncouple
the number 1 main shaft. ThePersian Gulf, BE-NO station, Suez Canal. No land,
no brew, no women forfour months. Then after all that abstinence the ship
anchors off the port ofBenidorm, Spain. You know, the middle of summer and
tourist season ...naked women on the beach. UNBELIEVABLE!! Cannes, France the
FrenchRiviera. A restaurant owner invites me and a shipmate to his
establishmentfor a meal just for us. He closes his place down while he and
his familyand employees prepare and serve a multi- course meal to the two of
us. Itwas great! However, Lets not forget New Orleans, the Mardi Gras.
USSForrestal Sailing up the Mississippi to get the key to the city.
WOW!!!!!!The, wine women & song. The hurricanes, jumblaya, crawfish. I
was thankfulfor a duty day just to get some rest. I served on board from 85-87 and again from89-90 when the USS Voge FF1047 was de-commed. I was assigned to the steamcatapult shop. I made 2 med. cruises while on board. The pleasure cruise wasthe best but I did have a lot of fun on my last one. Correct me if I'm wrongbut I think DC2 Robert P. Ford was a cat snipe first. Remember Israel when wealmost did not make the tour because of rough seas? Anyone else outthere? E-Mail me at fxstc@bitwisesystems.com I served aboard USS Forrestal as a PRAR to PR3 in VA-105, from1985-1988. As I look back on those times I am proud to have had theprivilege to have rode the FID. The Gunslingers and the Forrestal were myfirst tour, there is none finer I believe to teach an airman how to "BeNavy". I look at our airman now and wish they could have the experiences Ihad. I'm now stationed at Weapons Test Squadron, China Lake as AIMD LCPO.GOOD ON YOU GUNSLINGER!!! Served on Forrestal as ET2 from June 1982 to May 1985. I participated in the final Med deployment prior to the SLEP overhaul in Philadelphia, PA. I left the Forrestal to teach SPS-49(V)5 Radar at FTC in Norfolk, Va. After Serving one more sea tour on USS Ticonderoga CG47. I left the NAVY an ET1SW in 1991 after serving in Desert Shield aboard the TICO. I am presently a project manager for an industrial contractor called Rees Industrial, Inc. in Collegeville, PA. Some friends on FID I'll never forget - Freddy Ferdon, The WAD, Mark Parr, The Moser, and quite a few more. Served aboard Forrestal as a SN in 2ND Div and OZ Div from Feb 88 - Jan 90. I now am a IS1 ROTHR Watch Officer/Intel Officer at Fleet Surveillance Support Command (FSSC).
I served in E. Division from 1980 to 1983 as a EMC, ran the Distribution shop and A&O shops while aboard. I am now a GS11 Engineering Tech for the US Dept of Veterans Affairs in Orlando, Fl. I can be reached at 407-629-1599 ext 1199. I love this site, glad the old gal is still around and resting in Newport, she will make a great museum someday I made the 86 MED and 87 NATO cruise on the FORRESTAL.I worked in AIMD/IM3/62A on the AHRS system. In port, I worked atAIMD/62A NAS Norfolk. I got out of the Navy in 8804 and came back8808. I was stationed at AIMD NAS Miramar, CA and I made a WEST PAC onthe ABE LINCOLN in 93. I got out of the Navy on a HYT in 9412. I am ona AGR tour with the Army Reserves as a PERS SGT with the 224 CML CO (DP)in Jeffersonville, IN. I served as a 'grape' from Oct 88 to July 91. While I was onboard, I worked fueling aircraft on the roof. I served as a crewleader before I was moved to the Supply Dept. for the V-4 Division. I worked for ABF1 Kirkpatrick before he transferred and was allowed to run the Supply Office under little to no supervision as an E-3. I was responsible from everthing from buying gear, parts, and clothing, to balancing the OPTAR log. I worked with the greatest guys on the ship, and would like to hear from any other crew members that may remember me. My E--Mail address is TMRyan01@aol.com I served aboard USS FORRESTAL from August 1980 until April 1984 (departing from Philidelphia). I am still currently on active duty at Navy Recruiting District, Kansas City and have been fortunate enough to reach the rank of PNCS(SW). As I look back over a twenty year career and it is FORRESTAL that stands out in my mind as one of my greatest tours. Not necessarily because of all the port visits, or even the action we engaged, but rather the people I served with on her decks. It was on Forrestal that I cut my teeth under great leadership from men like PNCM Case, CWO2 Paul, ENS (LDO PNC) Small. These salts set straight a potential problem and help mold a family, wether they know it or not. I met Friend, Gonzalez, Whitney, Sears (which by the way I am still planning a lunch with), Pena, and Lascola. To all those that find my name and remember a "good old time", email me and say "hey" at PNCSDNW@aol.com I served on board the Forrestal from
1984-1988. I worked in the forward andaft galleys, forward and aft veg preps,
CPO mess, and the wardroom. I hadthe pleasure to be Capt. Cooks' (XO) orderly
(He is one man I will neverforget). I served on board the Forrestalwith
VA-81 from 1979 to 1982. I am currently stationed at MCAS New River asthe
Assistant Officer in Charge of the NATEC Detachment here. I plan onretiring
this year if I'm not selected for Master Chief. I served aboard the mighty FID from
(Nov-87 to Nov-90). I worked in the V-4 Div. as a bilge-rat grape. I just
wanted to say that the FID was the best ship that has ever been in the fleet,
she holds a lot of memories for me. It was a pleasure serving on her. I am
now a sheriff's deputy in Magnolia, Arkansas. When I tell people about the
memories of the ship and the V-4 experience, they think that I read it from a
novel. I would like to thank the persons responsible for this page and god
bless the crew. I was on the USS FORRESTAL from 1983 to 1986. Worked in the S-5 stateroom div. While on board it was in Philadelphia and then Mayport. After leaving the FID I served onboard the USS Yosemite. Now live in Clearfield Pa. Currently ret. on disability from U.P.S. Also working at H&R Block as tax preparer. Served with HS-3 during 1979-1982. I arrived in the fall of 1979 directly from FRAMP school at NAS JAX. Assigned to "1st Lt." and "Mess Cranked" for 90 days then went right into HS-3 Airframes. I did 3 "Med" cruises and can remember them as if they were yesterday. Our squadron's (HS-3) berthing area was the 03 Level all the way forward. My rack was right under a set of water brakes for the bow cats. The noise during launches was unbelievable. I had many friends not only in the squadron but also in other parts of the ship. The port visits to Benidorm were by far the best and only wish I had the time and the money to visit our "ports of call" again. The most tragic event I recall was the crash of one of our helo's with our CO onboard just 2 days from Mayport after a 6-month cruise. Left the "FID" in Egypt and flew back to the states in Fall of 1982 just in time to get married in December. I took instructor orders to San Diego for Helicopter FRAMP School with HS-10. Got my BS from Southern Illinois University in 1986 and departed the Navy in October of 1986. I currently work as a commercial real estate agent in Sandusky, Ohio and specialize in property development and acquisition. My days on the FID were a true blessing and I hope to hear from any of my old shipmates by e-mail. Thanks for making this web site available. HLEHRER@AOL.COM I was onboard the Forrestal from 86-89. Iworked in the Navigation Department. I now live in Graceville Fl. WhereI attend Florida Baptist Theological College. I have a Wife and threechildren. I would love to hear from some of my old friends fromNavigation. God Bless. bngoodpaster@hotmail.com I servedon the mighty FID from Oct 1987 until May 1992, I was an SM2 when Ideparted the FID and I made the last three deployments of her wonderfulcareer as the navys first and by far the best super carrier ever built. Iwas a signalman supervisor on the fid and was awarded the Navy CommendationMedal for the fire we had just prior to deployment in 1989. I truly lovethe FID and I will never forget my days aboard her. I currently am servingon board the USS Trenton (LPD-14), stationed in Norfolk, Va. I am theleading signalman on board the Trenton, but my heart will forever be withthe mighty FID.............I hope she can be saved!!!!!!!!! I saw her inRhode Island just last year, I wanted to go aboard but it wasn't allowed. Served aboard from 10/88-12/91, I made
the final two cruises aboard the FID in which I worked as an Anti-Submarine
air controller in Combat. I am now out of the Navy and work as a Educational
Rep for DeVry Institute of Technology. I served onboard the FID from November
1988-june 1992. I was an OS2 in Operations Dept/OI Division. I am currently
living back in Dayton, Ohio working as a deputy sheriff. Just wanted to touch
base and see who I can get back into contact with. I was assigned to the AIMD airframe shop in 1988. I now work for the U.S. Air Force as a Civil Service Aircraft Quality Inspector at Robins Air Force Base Georgia. 110 Waldorf DrivePerry, Georgia 31069 My name is Ted Boller. I reported to
the Forrestal, my first ship, on August5th, 1985. It seems like only
yesterday that I arrived in Mayport, Floridato view this awsome spectacle I
was to call home for the next four and ahalf years. After my sea tour, I
finished out my ten years of service inMare Island, CA., where I was an
instructor on the Mk. 23 TAS Fire ControlRadar System; the same equipment I
was responsible for on the FID. Threeyears in Mare Island, and a couple years
here at Boeing as a Harpoon MissileSystem instructor, has given me ample
opportunity to share sea stories withother sailors. Nobody has been able to
hold a candle to my stories, and myincreasing affection for my time aboard,
and the friends I made. I stay intouch with some, but would relish an
opportunity to see many people again.Hello to Chiswick, Radcliffe. If anyone
knows how to get ahold ofET(?) Knickerbocker, DS(?) Cromes, ET(?) Prynne, or
any of the OE or OM crowdof that era, I'd like to know. By the way, I had an
opportunity to chat withCapt. Thomason (CO) as he was buying a car from the
same dealership I wasone day. I graduated from college and have applied for a
commission in the Naval Reserves. I arrived on board during work-ups for
the '86 Med Cruise and went straight to V-4 Div. What an absolute culture
shock, boot camp never prepared me for that. I don't know what was worse, the
birds hitting the wires (we slept below the #3) or that ungodly wine when the
wire went out. After about three days I finally started to settle in. I think
I was lucky that I got to work on the flight deck instead of being stuck in a
filter room or pump room. We were flying sorties into the Persian Gulf daily to provide cover for tankers and all other shipping in the area. We left the Indian Ocean late September of 1988. I consider that part of Desert Shield. We were protecting the shipping in the Persian Gulf. We left the Indian Ocean, progessed to the Suez Canal, first port of call was Naples, Italy, second was Benadorme (?), Spain, third was Portsmouth, England after a full North Atlantic workup with the British. Returned to Mayport, Florida October 1988. (Had one hell of a time sailing an aircraft carrier up the Mississippi to New Orleans for Mardi Gras in 1988). I served onboard the FID from 85-89. I was in the AIMD department,shop 8 (VAST). While aboard I did a tour of duty in the Securitydepartment. I was a member of the forward repair locker in hanger bay 1.Remember the "GITMO-tivated" name badges the repair locker officers had?I have one to this day (jamntam@home.com). I served onboard the FID from Oct. 1987 - Feb 1991. A member of Operations Dept./OC Division(CATTC). I served as the divisional supply P.O., DCPO, Air Operations Branch Manager, Departure Controller, Final Controller and many other positions during my tour. I retired from the Navy in June 1996. I worked as a framer for a time and am currently a truckdriver and continue to reside in Jacksonville. If interested in contacting me my email address is RMill86506@aol.com Served onboard 1986-88. Anyone remember Salinas? AD3 Rocha? How about AE brown? I now work law enforcement in kentucky. how about AE brown? email: gwiley@gateway.net I was in the photo lab from 1979 until1983, when the FID went into Philly. I had a good time on the FID and am always telling people about our Med cruises. Since I got out in 1985, I got my degree in physical therapy, I run a clinic in Clearwater FL. I got married in 1998, and my wife is expecting our 1st child 3-17-00. I hope they bring the FID to Tampa, Fl but I have not heard anything new. I was on board the Forrestal from December 1981 until May 1985. I worked in Plat/Lens, V-2 Division. I was on board for one Med cruise & the Philadelphia SLEP period. After leaving Philly, I did 2 years shore duty at Lakehurst, New Jersey (NAEC). From New Jersey, I reported on board the USS John Kennedy, where I worked V-2 Division, waist catapults. My enlistment was up on board the USS JFK in 1989. I took advantage of & now work for the Federal Bureau of Prisons. I currently live in central Pennsylvania, am married for 15 years, with a daughter & a son. If you would like to contact me, you can e-mail me at scott536webtv.net After leaving "A" school in the Great Lakes, I served on the FID from May 1983 to Nov 1986. I was an EM3 and worked the switchboards that kept the lights on. I worked in the A&O shop then to power shop and finally some Distribution. There are many great memories that I will never forget. Many long hours of work as the ship underwent SLEP in Philly and finally with the Med Cruise of 1986. I remember; Franco, Sherwin Isom, Jay Jay, Fiore, Eric Fockens and Larry Moonie whom we had many chess games, there are many others too, too many to list. I currently work as an Engineer for an East cost utility, whom I have worked for since 1989. I have three beautiful kids. Any old shipmates, my email is jvaldes3@hotmail.com
I served aboard Forrestal in v-1 division from 9-87 to 5-89. I first startedout as a blue shirt in all flys before finishing out as an elevatoroperator . I don't believe that I have ever had a more impacting period ofmy life. I really enjoyed serving aboard her and am very proud to sayso. Even now eleven years later I have very vivid memories of the greatfriends and mentors that I had while on board. I am now working in sales forHilton Hotels in Dallas, Texas and very happy. I hope all you great guys inV-1 that I knew are happy and doing well. We worked hard but we sure did playhard didn't we? I am glad to hear you are doing well Steve McFerrin andremember you as a good guy. We sure had some good times amidst all the hardwork. Thanks LT Mcfarland, Chief Long and Chief Bomba. If any one out therecares to make contact, my e-mail is Rveg@yahoo.com I served on the Forrestal from work ups & O.R.E. of the 81 Med cruise thruogh the very end of the 82 cruise. At the time I was a AMS3 with VAQ-130, the Zappers out of Nas Whidbey Is. Wa. I'll never forget the 2 seperate F-4 Crashes we had on the round down or the two that cold catted right before my A/C was supposed to take off on L1. Lots of good times on the F.I.D. in the MED, Especially with Kadafie. Didnt much enjoy the time in the Arabian Sea to me it wasnt worth the 2 beers. Ended up an AMS1 served 12 1/2 years active, took a George Bush buy out in 92, went Navy reserves untill 94, Then joined the Oklahoma Army National Guard. Attained rank of E-6, got tired of the Clinton military and got out and now work for Gulfstream Aerospace as a sinior parts fabricator. I have cruise books, over 3000 photos and some airwing stuff. Also served on the USS Enterprise, and The USS Coral Sea. VAQ-130,VAQ-129,_VAQ-133 and VX-5. SSGT. 45th Infrantry Co.D 1st 180 Shawnee Oklahoma Tow missle section sergent. Worked in Air Operations with air controllers - hoped to go to A-Schoolbut that never materialized. Currently working at a catalog company in computers/mis/data handling. Iwas on board from 1981 - 1983 - for two Med cruises. email address: whytedog@bellsouth.net Served aboard 1983 until 1987 as baker and ran the cargo area. Worked in supply dept S-2 div. Loved the ship and had a lot of friends aboard.Still friends with a couple, MS1 Butry is still one of my best friends. Met him in the yards in Philadelphia in SLEP. Love being on aboard ship, she has a lot of pride. I still tell my son stories about the FID. I will always remeber her and the friends I had on her.
Served in Weps Dept. G-2 Armory then inG-5 when we "broke away" from the Mag Rats to form our own division. SawStrickland and Overbeck, hey guys, hope to catch up with Jeff Roley andHarmon, Fisher.....contact me at BDAbee@Mindspring.com, I'm here in Tampaawating the latest on bringing the old girl to the Gulf of Mexico. Great site. I was sent to the FID as a push button IC3 to the PLAT/LENS shop in V-2 in Nov of 1981. Made 2 cruises, went through SLEP, and left as a IC2 in Nov of 1987. As with any ship, I loved it and hated it, but still would not change a thing if I could. Currently I am a ICC in Newport News, Va. getting ready to retire this Sept. 2000. I was a member of VA-105, attached to the USS Forrestal. I made two six month deployments on her. I made a deployment in 88-89 and again in 90. Deployed for work-ups and Med Cruises 1980-1983. TAD to H-Div, did most of my work in Sick Call (which I absolutely loved doing, a great challenge and it gave me the foundation to excel at what I do now, nursing). Recently, I've heard from two former squadron/shipmates, AN Brian Edwards and AN Ray Taylor, both plane captains with VA-83. I live in Maine, am married and have a daughter, age 13. I work in a doctor's office. One of the reasons I was hired was because one of the surgeon's in the practice was a surgeon in the USNR in the early 70s, and he had good memories of the corpsmen he worked with. I don't think I've disappointed, I think I've upheld the FID's good name. I was an Airman serving with VF-74 duringthe 81 & 82 cruises. I worked in 1st Lt on the 81 cruise, fresh out ofAD "A" school keeping the 90 man coop clean way back behind the wires onthe O3 level. Got my first taste of being overseas. Really dugBenidorm Spain. Finally got into the Power Plants shop for workups andthe 82 cruise. Lets see, Naples, Alexandria and Bennidorm again. TheSuez, IO and a Blue Nose cert for the North Atlantic. Hey, at least Igot to play drums for the Forrestal AXE band during steel beach picnicsand the Hotel Orange in Bennidorm. I've been stationed in Hawaii since86, gonna retire as a first class in Nov 00. I'm working MaintenanceControl for Executive Transport DET flying CINCPACFLT wherever he wantsto go. Good enough duty for my last tour. Any former shipmates E mailme at DAUGHEAD@CPRFP.NAVY.MIL I served on the FID from 86-87 in G-2 weapons.I was an undesignated Airman. I have very good memories of the people,places,and things I was able to experience. I have been in contact through this site with AO1 Kieth Thompson. I am looking for a few others shipmates that I havent seen in years. Anyone from weapons that I served with can contact me pmacdaddy2000@aol.com I cherrish the time and people and wish I can do it all over again. Has anyone heard from Russ Higganbotham? Griggs(little or big)? JJ Armburst? God Bless All! I served aboard the FID from 12/87 to
12/89 as a member of the Mar Det. I have one thing to say to you guys,
"RED DIAMOND ALERT, RED DIAMOND ALERT!"
I reported to USS Forrestal in June
of 1985. Like Reed, it was amazing justgetting there. I flew to Cuba and was
one of the fortunate few blackshoesto land on the FID, catching cable #2. As
soon as I stepped off the COD, Iwas greeted by DSC Llewelyn (Sp?). He
introduced me to Manny Alcala, DS1,my new LPO, both of whom were instrumental
in getting me started in theshipboard environment. I was a member of the OE
Data group, and worked inCVIC with the spooks and pilots...a really great
bunch of guys. Mike Lapp,Ken Cromes, Rick Rothgeb, Lloyd Holland, and Dave
Donovan were the othertechs in the shop. I remember, Dana, Puppy, Ted, Reed,
Kirk, and manyothers. Other folks from outside the electronics group were
Steve Pecorelliand Robert Blasko. (A Mess Specialist and Corpman,
respectively) Steveused to give me last minute breakfasts just before morning
General Quarterson my way through the forward mess to the ladder leading up
to SINS, mystation. It was in SINS, a system with many failures, that Chief
Llew toldme, "You know what, Buttweiler, you do good work" after
one of many at searepairs. Those 8 words stayed with me to this day. Later,
Tom Meadows,DSCS, was instrumental in getting the detailer down to Jax to
interview usindividually and give us some awesome assignments. Thanks heaps
to both ofyou. My husband James was on the Forrestal
(CV-59) in the 1980's, his nickname was slugger. I am trying to locate Walter
"Keith" Sutherland, Danny Ashburn, and Richard
"skip"Burns.These are the only 3 buddies he was close to and I
would like get him in contact with them in person without him finding out.
My years on the FID were some of the most rewarding of my Naval career. The people are what made FID so great. I'm now a CPO and still on active duty at VFA-106 in NAS Oceana, VA. After 7 deployments and an ungodly number of work-up's on may other carriers, I've yet to see a ship or crew that can hold a candle to the men of the USS Forrestal. I'd like to invite all former Thunderbolts to the reunion this fall. We have a reunion committee and our own web page. You can contact us at the following site for more info: http://www.geocities.com/pentagon/2908/main.htmlHope to see you all there. I served from 3/80 to 3/84. I was in the Deck Department and worked under BM1 Long.My e-mail address is tctcv59@hotmial.com, if there are any of Div 2 out there, lets get in touch.
81-83 (ASW Module Computer
operator) I served on the USS Forrestal in the
80's. I was meritoriously advanced from HM3 to HM2 while on the Forrestal. I
reenlisted on the Forrestal 9 January 1980. I was the Corpsman for VA-81
(ATKRON 81). I was flown off the ship outside of Israel on a C-2A when I was
reassigned back to the FMF Camp Pendleton. Today I am a Custom Protection Officer
with the Wackenhut Corporation. I serve aboard the Fid from 1984 to 1991. I had a great time and made many friends. I was in the signals division and had a wonderful Master Chief named Vince Roebuck. He was the best I ever had. I sure do miss the times and the people. Now I live in Michigan and am a Tool and Die Maker. You can e-mail me at Rileya0408@aol.com. Hope to hear from some of my old ship mates. AO3, G-1 DIV. WEP'S Elevators. 1979-1982. Currently a Regional Manager Sears Corp. I was a YNSN on FID between 87-90. Went
up the Miss. River for Mardi Gras and went to the 108 days on
"beno" station. Worked for PAO, Lt. Jim Brooks. I was "SN Don
Elkins" the sports and news guy on the closed circuit TV. Saw a lot of
names and notes from guys I served with like Brooks, Jake, Piggot and Walsh. I served on the FID in E-Division from 84-88. I boarded the ship when itwas in drydock in the Philadelphia shipyards and left in the middle of the'88 cruise. Looking back, I realize how much I benefited from beingonboard. I'm grateful to the many people I worked with who were greatexamples of people to learn from. I am currently working as an auditor. Iwould like very much to hear from former shipmates. My e-mail address isLohnstad@hotmail.com. I believe I was on the Forrestal between late 1980-1983. I worked in the Mess office. I remember I worked for a Warrant Officer Ragu (I think). I came to the Forrestal during 4th of July and no one was on board. Reading the messages from the other crew members brought back tremendous memories. Jamaica, Benidorm, Naples. I am trying to find other guys that went to the Rolling Stones concert in Naples. I have a picture of all of us. It was a great time. I believe they were all MM's and worked in the A/C division??? Also if there are any other Mess cooks out there, let me know. My email is PJDEC02@cs.com I served onboard FID twice. First was from 1981 to 1985. Second time wasfrom 1990 till she was decommissioned. I am now serving on USS PHILIPPINESEA (CG-58) as the Command Career Counselor. Ph#(904)270-6516 DSN:960 I am an AD1 still on active duty assigned toAIMD NAS Jacksonville. I served in VA-37 (The Bulls) from 1986 to 1988 andmade 2 deployments onboard the FID, also a North Atlantic cruise. I havesince been on 3 different carriers and can say that the FID was the bestthat I have had the privlige to serve on. RMurray904@aol.com I served on board the Forrestal in NTDS
from December 1984 (during SLEP in the Phila. Shipyard) until March of 1989.
I was a DS1 when I last requested permission to leave the ship. In 1984 when
I got to the ship most of the people working on the ship and in NTDS were
civilians. I was a DS3 and got off to a good start with Chief Delfoe, Chief
Llewelyn, DS1 Al Beatty and DS2 Luis Martinez. I've seen Reed Radcliffe's
posting and I remember when he arrived. We had just lost an F14 in the Med
and things were a bit subdued at that time. I remember a few other names from
NTDS to add as well; Dana Caproon, Pete Cain, Al Holman, Bob Herbst, DS1
Romero, DS1 Cedano, Tim Brown, DS2 Gully. I also remember many OS's and the
guys in ASW, ACLS, CVIC and many other OE personnel. I served on the the FID for 4 months (Sept-88 to Jun-89) until my orders came through for SAR school. I remember Maddox a.k.a. MADDOG and theguys from G-3 weps thanks for the pink bellie. John Reily if you read this sorry- thanks .....I work as a stock broker and I live in New York. I served on FID 87 thru 90. I can't believe I found this site. The USS Forrestal was my best duty station in the navy. I am proud to have served under Capt. Thomassy. Looking for OPS/OI Wardogs, JT, Carducci, Moeller, Wash, Victal, and of coarse Master Chief Cerebral Polsey and Chief Woolard and the rest of OI Div. ruben24@bellsouth.net.
It was my pleasure to have had the
opportunity to work with some of the Navy's finest technicians, the
"Radar Gang," FTs and ETs, that ever served aboard the FID.
Competent, cocky, and self-assured, these men labored under adverse
conditions and long hours to keep the FID's air, surface, and ACLS radars as
well as a host of other vital electronic equipment (TACAN, IFF, etc., etc.)
operational all the while exhibiting a "can do" attitude and a
sense of humor that contributed to a strong sense of "espirt de
corps." I was onboard FID during the period
from December 1985 through March 1989. Among that many assignments and titles
I had onboard were Air Operations Branch Manager, Air Operations Watch
Officer, Assistant 3M Department Coordinator Operations Department, Departure
Controller, Leading Petty Officer for OC division, and occasional briefer for
crew for overseas port visits, Interpreter and Vice President USS Forrestal
First Class Association. I was a boatswain's mate on board the ship from 86-89. Currently, I am an accountant. I wonder if the FID misses the sea as much as me. Bravo zulu to you and the other guys keeping the memory of the FID intact. I served aboard the FID while attached to the VA-37 Bulls as an "Ordie" from1984-1986. I look back on those days fondly and enjoy telling all thestories from my time on the ship. I work for a spring water company inCalifornia. I was on there in March of 1986 when the A-6 caught fire andhave the photos given to me by a shipmate posted on my web sitehttp://www.laserguided.com/a6.htm . I can be reached at john@laserguided.com I was an HS-15 Red Lion punk in the
lineshack. That's what I was.......pretty much a punk...........not that I
liked 'punk' music.........but I was always in trouble!I couldn't stay out of
trouble........always losing my stripes, myliberty but one thing, one person
I'll never lose from the memory-bank,is one PO1 Gordon "Sarge"
Crowder. He's an inspiration to me and manyothers...even to this day. A tough
son of a bitch, Sarge was. He hadbeen in the Navy for about 20 years the time
I checked in to HS-15....Iwas 18years old...Sarge was about 40. Still fit as
ever and looked likethe meanest Pirate you could ever imagine......and when
he waspissed.....He had an enraged look about him that would scare the
shitout of an E-1 or an O-10....He was an ex-jarhead....did 3 tours in
Vietnam and had so many medalsand ribbons it was so funny.....to see the
expressions on Commander'sand Admiral's faces when we happenned to be in
formation for aninspection or ceromony all decked out in our dress blues
.........Sargeruled!!!! He was so intimidating , but as you might
imagine......Hecould also be very empathetic. He had been
busted.......forfighting....drinking....all kinds of
trouble.................but healso was a highly decorated Salilor. He could
be so 4.0 .....but he'dnever turn those redstripes to gold ...and many
thought he'd never getto try on a pair of khakies. I could relate so well
with Sarge......atwork I kicked ass. I was a Plane Captain with pride. I
worked sofast...so safe....worked with a high level of
personality....peopleliked and respected me. Although when time for liberty
came.........onlythe wildbunch would be seen with me. . . . . and we were
wild. raisinghell in Napoli....doing things that .....man.....it's hard to
believei'm not still in the brig. See....Sarge and I could relate so well in
somany areas........we both liked to fight......We liked to work hard andboth
demanded respect......We were both alcoholics.Only he had been in recovery
for about 5 years....I was just gettingwarmed up. I remember seeing Sarge on
Liberty for the first time whiledocked in Benidorm, Spain......one of the few
times they were crazyenough to let me off the boat....Sarge was drinking a
Coke.......I remember being pre-occupied aboutthat...........there was
something wrong with that picture I thought. Heshould be raising Hell I
thought. Oh Well....I let go of thatthought........and continued on my
way.until I was sentenced to go to AA meetings aboard the USS Forestal
forraising Hell while on Liberty.......I ran into Sarge again.......thistime
it wasn't Sarge...............It was ....." Hi, My name'sGordon....and
I'm an alcoholic." I remember thinking WoW....that's wild.this was in
1988 ....I got kicked out of the Navy 1 month before myenlistment was up in
1990......4years later......and 4 DUI's later...Iquit drinking and started
going to AA....I've been sober for over 6years now and often think of
Sarge......He was a great guy........AGreat man to Admire..........No Matter
what his past looked like.I've had about 15 different jobs since I got out of
the Navy.....I missit every time I see a commercial.......it just so happens
to be what Ido today.......Make Commercials that is.............see, about 5
yearsago I went to New York and tried to make it inShowBusiness.........Came
back home to Cincinnati with my tail betweenmy legs and went to Radio and
Film School and got hired at a FilmProduction Company. I've worked at Instant
Replay Film Productions asChief eXperience Officer for about 3 years now
......and man this isit...........I finally found what I love to do.......I'm
married to aBeautiful Princess named Tiffany........... and it's been a long
timesince I've gone 6 months without getting laid. I served in VA-81 from 79 to 82. When I
was in the Sunliners I was an AME1in the squadron seat shop and later as the
AME QA rep. My first trip to anyaircraft carrier was a C1 flight from Jax to
the FID. What an introductionto life on an aircraft carrier. I was a First
Class and never been on acarrier before. In hindsight I was probably lucky
not to be killed as Ialmost immediately went to the "roof" at night
and was final checking A7s onthe cats. But because of Forrestal and the
Sunliners I was hooked andstayed with carrier aviation for the next 19 years
primarily with F/A-18s.Great squadron and great ship. A tour in the Navy that
I wish I could haverepeated. Duties: Metal worker, Pipe shop,
welder, firefighter. I remember doing the IO (108) trip, but remember
dropping anchor in Benidorm Spain. It was a nice welcome. Some R-Division
Buddies:
I was deployed aboard the Forrestal with
The "Shaft Drive"VA/VFA-105. I onlyhave fond memories of the FID. I
never really got a chance to thank myshipmates in the medical department and
my squadron mates for all the greattimes. I am now practice General Surgery
as a PA-C in Fairfield, IL. I haveone child. I hope things are going well
with everyone. If any the fellas aremissing their shot records drop me an
email.(Ha! Ha!) Seriously, drop me anemail at Jfulk2@hotmail.com Currently living in Nashville, TN. I served on board the Forrestal from late 87 to mid 91. I was an ABF3 when I departed working in Aviation fuels in the V4 division. I worked on the flight deck mostly in flight deck control. That is where I served most of my enlistment. Some of the best times of my short enlistment were served in that little room. I got to meet some of the best friends in that small room. One of my best friends is ABF3 Reuben Johnson & ABF3 Jerry Hundley who I call my best friends to this day who I met while on board the FID & had the privilege of working with. One of my highlights is the chance to meet President George Bush when he made a stop on board. I am currently a loan officer at a local finance company here in Nashville. The memories of the Forrestal come up on a daily basis, & will never regret the decision to join the navy (but don't regret getting out). My current E-mail address is oyeagwc@comcast.net. I look forward to hearing from anyone from the 80's or 90's who remember the good times aboard the FID. Always remember "Have a Fine Navy Day" I served onboard from 1985 to1988, and thanks to my recruiter, was attached to the ships Deck Dept! To this day I still don't know why I received an honorable discharge, must have kept my gig line straight. To see the world and meet the people and get away with the things we did will never be repeated. Whether it be un-reping in the North Atlantic, dropping the anchor in Spain, or sailing up the mighty Mississippi to tie one on, you better believe that was the best of times. To all "The Boyz"in Waste Cats, Arresting Gear and Deck (and you know who you are) get the address and use it. I now reside in Kalamazoo, MI and own a Landscape and Irrigation company. And if anyone has seen Mongo-Slade find out what he has done with my sister! E-Mail Address is Propain399@aol.com Served on board the FID from 1979 to 1984. OPS/OE Comm shop 1.I have a lot of great memories of my time on board and still find myself thumbing through my Cruise Books (not just the pictures of Benidorm either) and remembering all the great times on board. I transferred while the ship was in SLEP to the Naval Reserve Center in Louisville, KY to teach Fire Fighting and Basic Electricity and Electronics and maintain the simulation equipment. I left the service in Jan/86 and I am presently traveling the world as a Project Manager for an International company serving the Automotive Industry. I would love to hear from any of you Twigets out there. My E-mail is hanginj@aol.com Served in the AIMD aviation electronics shop 660, 1980-1982 and truly enjoyed my adventure! What really sticks out in my mind are the excellent liberty in places like Benidorm, Spain...Toulon, France and Capri. We also enjoyed the band "WIRED" live on the flight deck (after a 103 day at sea binge) and in NAPLES, ITALY on the 4th of JULY!! WHAT A TRIP!!!AAAYY GUYS??? I also enjoyed an EXCELLENT workup cruise to St. Thomas and JAMAICA...YAAA MAAN. I currently live in St Louis, MO. I can be E- mailed at: LSOSSMAN@JUNO.COM Was aboard during the Summer of 1986. I did the Med cruise entirely. Now I'm a senior chemical operator. I first set foot on the FID in January 1981 as an Airmen Apprentice assigned to G-1 Division, Weapons Department. I was present for the FID's 16th and17th Med deployments (including GITMO, workups, the Suez transit, and the North Pole "Blue Nose" cruise). I accompanied the FID during the trip to the Philadelphia Naval Yard for SLEP. I was discharged as an AO3 in September of 1984. While on board, I served in the G-1 Division, Weapons Department Weapons Elevator Shop under "Frenchy" Beausejour and later Gary "Bowling Ball” Ingram. I was also on the In-port Fire Squad. Today, I'm an Account Manager for a computer systems integrator. NOTE: My last name while on the FID was Laurino. Being adopted, I changed my last name after making contact with my birth parents.
Was aboard from 1980-1983 in the AIMDParaloft, AIMD Raft Shop (rubber room) Plane Captain, Squadron PR Shop. I did 3 MED Cruises, Blue Nose, IO, Suez, Benidorm twice, Naples don't know how many times), Egypt, Isrial, Sicily, Greece, France, and whatever other little holes we stopped in. Lost contact with a lot of good friends and guys I worked with and partied with. Married with 5 kids and 4 grandkids. E-mail me at Wizard68177@aol.comI remember long grueling work hours, getting so dirty you couldn't tell who I was or what for that matter. But it was the best time in my life. Growing up and learning how to be a man and friend. To watch out for my fellow shipmates to keep them alive too and have them doing the same for me. God bless the FID and all who served on her. I served on the FID from 85 ta 89 . I started in the Mags (G-2) and managed to get to Flight Deck Div. (G-1). I worked for Gunner Gywn (not sure of the spell there) who became known as the "Flying Gunner" when a F-14 blast picked him up and moved him20 or 30 feet down the flight deck. Come to think of it we should have called him "Old Iron Gut". We were having flight ops when a F-14 (once again) landed and this little streak came whizzing up the flight deck towards the bow. Well, it picked the Gunner up and shoved him back 10-20 Feet. We all came running and when he stood up he was holding a piece of one of those catapult "dumbells" that are used in the launching of the birds. It smacked him right below the belt buckle. He didn't get around to fast for the next couple of days. I made 2 MED Cruises, 2 Artic circle crossesings, through the "Ditch" , and was on the Maudi Gra cruise. I still don't know what popped me in the kisser and knocked me out there, it did manage to loosen my front teeth and I was a little bloody when the cops brought me back to the ship. Friggin Doc on duty just wanted to know how much I drank. I managed to get sent to a "stress management class" because something or someone kicked , punched or otherwise clobbered my face. Still there were alot of good times on that old pig.......and the "Sara" still sucks....HA...HA....HA....(saintrojo@aol.com) I was part of the Marine Detachment 1988-1990. After leaving the FID, I went on to become a Sniper in 3/8 sta platoon. Left the Corps in 1992, finished college, married, have 3 children. I own myown business (www.e1stchoice.com). Made cruises aboard Forrestal in 1982 with HS-3, 1988, 1989-90, and 1991 with HS-15. Now Employed at NADEP JAX. I first stepped onboard the FID on November 5, 1984. I was an E-2 assigned to 2nd Div. Deck Dept. During my 3 plus years onboard I had several lasting memories. A few of them are: walking under the ship in drydock; first time underway from Philly; parking garage enroute to Mayport; Gitmo"85"; Med Cruz"86"; North Atlantic"87"; Mardi Gras"88". I learned a lot while I on the FID, and looking back on the time I served onboard, the FORRESTAL and it's crew, helped me do a lot of growing up in life. If any of my past shipmates would like to contact me, my address is cschmidt@netins.net I was aboard the FID during Medcruise 89/90 in the training and personnel departments. I too remember the fire that kept us from going from a month. I am currently a training and development consultant in Indianapolis. I have a PhD, and do educational research. My email is: btstrom@hotmail.com.
Oceana Sea Op Det . Worked in W/C 610 AIMD Shop 5. Made 3 Med Cruises starting in 1988. I am currently working at Continental Tire in Mt. Vernon Illinois as an industrial electrician.
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SMCM Vince Roebuck
Fred M.
Avila, MS3 (1983-87)