Greg Casto - 05/07/99 20:00:48
My Email:jgcasto@mindspring.com

Comments:
served on Oriskany Jan.1968 - Dec. 1971 3rd. & 1st. div

TOM THOMPSON - 05/07/99 02:14:20
My Email:BPTHOMPSON.USCHOI

Comments:
GDIVISION 66 69

Chuck Beckman - 05/05/99 07:10:09
My Email:charley001@go.com

Comments:
Served aboard with VF-162 during deployments 1965, 1966 and 1967.

Jim Schureman - 05/05/99 01:02:41
My Email:jschureman@webbcooley.com

Comments:
I served aboard the Oriskany from approximately October 1967 to December 1968. I first came aboard the ship in Yokosuka, Japan and immediately reported to the 2nd Division. Ltjg Thom Dietmeier was our commanding officer during that period( Thom, I reall did enjoy painting that ship). Later I was transferred to Disbursing in the Supply Division. Spent Xmas of 67’ in Hong Kong returning to San Francisco in February of 68’ and dry dock. I believe there was a video made covering the Oriskany during the tim I was aboard that was shown on the TV show “Wings” two or three years back. Does anyone have the tape?

Clarence "Joe" Wiebelhaus - 05/04/99 23:08:46
My Email:CJoeW@aol.com

Comments:
LCDR. Served in CIC 11/64 - 12/66. Was part of the group of 14 trapped in the forwardest "trunk" area of ship during the '66 fire.

James R. Farris - 05/04/99 19:20:50
My Email:hime@gte.net

Comments:
I have already signed once, but I had to add something else. I read in one of the comments that there was a group trying to save the Oriskany, good idea. So many people have done so much, I am afraid that if something happens to the ship, people may, in time, forget. It is so much a part of history.

Greg Olson - 05/04/99 02:33:07
My Email:raolson@smig.net

Comments:
I was a BT#3 from 1963-67. I was in #4&2 fireroom. I was on the Big O in Feb. of this year. Got special permission to board her along with Dale Ersland. Got some great pictures and footage on my camera. Some of the pictures are posted on Wayne Neighbors T nkin Gulf Yacht club. They are pictures # 5. Would like to hear from some former shipmates. Am looking for John Gibson from # 4 fireroom. If anybody knows of him have him contact me. Have found several old shipmates. Dennis OlsonBT2 #4fireroom and John Puska BT3 Tom Gallick Bt3, both from #4 fireroom.

KENNETH H. HART - 05/03/99 23:54:05
My Email:afhart@mindspring.com

Comments:
I WAS ABOARD THE USS ORISKANY FROM 1967 TO 1968. I WAS AN AIRMAN ON THE FLIGHT DECK IN V-1 DIVISION. ANYBODY THAT REMEMBERS ME IS WELCOME TO CONTACT ME AT MY DAUGHTERS EMAIL ADDRESS.

Mike Avenali - 05/02/99 21:27:10
My Email:harley@penn.com

Comments:
Made 3 West-Pac cruises with VFP-63 Det.4 from 70-74. Great Ship,Great Memories.

R.D. Daveggio - 05/02/99 21:03:43
My Email:daveggio@att.net

Comments:
I was on during Korea. I think the year was 1951-1952. In Communications

JIM BECKNELL - 05/02/99 04:30:15

Comments:
V-3 DIV. 6-66 12-69 812 256 5621

Kerry Ryan - 05/01/99 10:51:52
My Email:Paladinprotc@yahoo.com

Comments:
A very good site, I served on the O Boat in 75, My Brother William Hamlin Served on the Oriskany from 51-53 I'm very sadden to see what has become of one of the most Gallant Naval Vessels of our time.... "May they never forget the name ORISKANY"

Jim LaBianco - 04/29/99 18:49:38
My Email:jim_labianco@ELI.net

Comments:
Looking for those who served with VMF212 from 3/65 through 10/65 aboard the Oriskany. I was a plane captain with VMF212. If anyone knows the whereabouts of any VMF212 members please e-mail me the info. Thanks!

Bob Black - 04/28/99 03:12:34
My Email:Dent Ball3@aol.com

Comments:
I served from the comissioning of the ship to 1953.

Daniel M. Kearns - 04/27/99 18:43:05
My Email:dmkearns@juno.com

Comments:
Radioman 3rd, Served on CVA-34 from 4/64 to 3/67.

Gerry Williamson - 04/25/99 04:42:08
My Email:hotrod29@worldnet.att.net

Comments:
Thanks

Joe DeLue - 04/23/99 07:00:56
My Email:Joedot124@aol.com

Comments:
Well done. I served as part of the crew from July '50 thru Sept '52 in the V-1 Div. You fellows have put together a great site. I'll be sure to drop by often. Keep up the good work, be glad to hear from any former shipmates. Will try to make the next reun on.

D.E.CLEMENT, CDR. USNR RET - 04/21/99 21:18:09
My Email:DECLEMENT@AOL.COM

Comments:
I was OINC HC-1 DET 34 on the 1967 Vietnam cruise, the first cruise after the fire.

Ralph Sasse - 04/20/99 15:17:54
My Email:ghanson41@aol.com

Comments:
I'm the neice of Ralph Sasse and he was a crew member from 1951 intil 1954. I am helping him try to locate other crew members from that time. I don't know what division he was in but I do know he worked in the boiler room. Please write if you were there of remember Ralph Sasse. Thank you Ginger Hanson

jeff smith - 04/19/99 22:58:17
My Email:stacnjef@aol

Comments:
lost my father on that tragic day. would like to know if anyone knew him, LCDR JAMES A SMITH VAH-4 if so i would love to talk to you!

RON ELDRIDGE - 04/19/99 03:19:28
My Email:COUNT KODA @AOL.COM

Comments:
USS ORISKANY MARCH'67 TO AUGUST '70 V-4 DIV

Gerald Burdock (Jerry) - 04/17/99 00:36:10
My Email:jburdtoo@aol.com

Comments:
Enjoyed your site very much. I served on board The Mighty O from 64-67 in G Div. AO3. Have been trying to find one of my buddys that I lost contact with in the early 70s. Steve P. Foster also in G Div. Served with my brother (Harry) same Div. Anyone knowi g Fosters address please let me know. Would love to hear from any of my old shipmates.

afcm okie bob layton - 04/15/99 02:26:58
My Email:okiesoar@telepath.com

Comments:
made the last four cruises on the "O" boat 1971-1976 attached to VF-194 I have a complete super-8 home movie of the 1972-73 cruise includeing the last air strikes. The old ship will always be in my heart.

Jerry A. Rowe - 04/12/99 18:18:11
My Email:jerryrowe@worldnet.att.net

Comments:
Served in VA-163 for 65 cruise, 66 cruise, and 67 cruise. Lost some good shipmates.

l. weems, sgt usmc - 04/12/99 02:10:17
My Email:Von Reuben@aol.com

Comments:
I was aboard the big "O" in 1965. My squadron, VMF(AW) 212 was the first to fly 2000 lb bombs from a carrier deck. your page is very good.

Dave Heckman - 04/11/99 05:14:52
My Email:dsheckman@ableweb.net

Comments:
Greetings from Dayton,Nevada. I served in V-3 Division on the Mighty "O" from '74-'75 after crossing decks from the USS Ranger CVA-61 from '71-'74, V-1 Division with one Westpac aboard her. If anyone remembers me, lets get in touch! Dave Heckman

W.Lee Puckett - 03/30/99 04:09:56
My URL:http://www.web.beol.net/leesweb
My Email:lez@mail.beol.net

Comments:
ship's company / AO3(aviation ordanance)G-div /westpac/yankee&dixie / 64,65 & 66

Doug Carlson - 03/28/99 04:39:47
My Email:cotton70@mindspring.com

Comments:
Served as an ATR-3 on CVA-34 during '70 Westpac cruise. Was TAD from VA-153 to ships company ECM-IMA.

Gary krzysiak - 03/21/99 13:57:44
My Email:shak@itol.com

Comments:
Dear Shipmate I was on the 1971 cruise ,with VF-194. I would like to hear more about the memorial assoc. Where can I fine information on buying related paraphernalia. Thank You Sincerly Gary Krzysiak

William O. Calvert - 03/19/99 04:39:55
My Email:yubaman@jps.net

Comments:
I was aboard the BIG "O" Sept. 1954-Dec.1956. SK3. I have the cruise books for those years. If some one would like me to E-Mail them a picture from it I awould be happy to do it.

C.Gifford - 03/15/99 07:25:22
My Email:serra@cyberhighway.net

Comments:
Thanks for a well done job on the web page.Brings back alot of memories. v-i div from 61-63. Would like to hear from anyone from that time.

DUDA, FRANK JON - 03/14/99 18:29:55
My Email:WWaterbottle@webtv.net

Comments:
Prior E mail address in error,still hoping to hear from old shipmates, drunk or sober. Was aboard O from 2/62 thru 2/65, GM, MAA, and G Div.

Leo Andrews - 03/13/99 07:50:38
My Email:andyleo@webtv.net

Comments:
Just popped in to say hello to everyone, I served on the mighty 0 from 1967-1968 in v-3 division, Hanger deck crew.Leo Andrews,(Andy)

Peter B. Catania - 03/12/99 03:14:12
My Email:PBCATA@aol.com

Comments:
I was aboard the "MIGHTY O" from 69-71, 3rd Division as a 3rd class BM. Had some of the best times of my life. Sorry to hear she will be gone soon. Now I live in Toms River, NJ. If anyone hears of anyone from that division or resides in Toms River please feel free to send me an e-mail. Good Luck to all who served aboard the Lady!

Thomas Gallik - 03/11/99 15:48:55
My Email:TomG631038@aol.com

Comments:
like to hear from some of the old shipmate from 1963 to 1967 tom

Nancy Doublin - 03/10/99 01:17:52
My Email:DUBlinHoyl@aol.com

Comments:
Great site. I enjoy reading about the Oriskany as she was a huge part of my childhood. My father, AO2AC Thomas F. Doublin (Dirty Mouth or Dub), served aboard her several times. Will continue to check out this site often. Anyone who knew my dad (he pas ed away in '95), feel free to e-mail me.

Larry Blocker - 03/09/99 00:27:19
My Email:larryrblocker

Comments:
IS there anyone out there that would like to save the "O" Boat from the scrap pile. I know a way that might work if we move fast and and work as a large group. It is at this time the only way. I don't mean with a lot of manual work either. It will take se ting down and writing our reprsentatives and the Navy and even the White House if we have to. The Navy is at point that they are going to have to pay to get her cut up. If we hit them up now maybe they would rather save the scrap money on new ships. IF an one else would like to save her to show our children and grandchildren in the future, please email me and lets see what we can do. I know all the people that have already tried, but at that time Navy didn't have the need. With the tables turned a little m ybe if enough people write in they will at least give use a year to try. The guys on the Hornet did. My email address is larryrblocker@yahoo.com.

Fred Hall - 03/07/99 08:55:47
My Email:fhallcva34@compuserv.com

Comments:
I served aboard the Oriskany from 63 to 65 in CR Div. Made two WestPacs.

L. Neil Hall BT1 - 03/05/99 20:03:22

Comments:
I just want to add to my previous comments. I think you have a great page going. I have enjoyed it. Of all the ships that I served on in the Navy, I never worked so hard and enjoyed so much the time that I spent on the big "O". She was one hell of a ship. I think we broke every record ever set by any CVA in the fleet. Even the most soda pop consumed per mile. She was a great ship.

Ed Marruffo - 03/05/99 03:08:31

Comments:
Served on the old girl from 70 thru 72. Some day I really miss that life.

Jim Farris - 03/03/99 22:53:21
My Email:hime@gte.net

Comments:
My father, CDR George K. Farris, served on the Oriskany. He was one of those lost in the 1966 fire. He was in VAH-4 and flew the A3 Skywarrior. Last September our family lost our mother. Many memories came to mind of the event that changed her and our ives, and how time has passed. I would like to hear from anyone who served with my father. My father served two tours on the Oriskany, one in 1955 when I was born, the second in 1966 when we lost him. About four years ago I visited the Oriskany before t left Bremerton, Wa. As we toured the Oriskany I looked to the ship next to her, and noticed it was the USS Missouri. The Missouri was the ship my father took his Midshipman cruise on. The first and last ships my father served on were side by side. I on't know how or why that was. It did make me think of so many things, so many have done, when our country has called. Best wishes, Jim

Gerry Benner '69-'73 - 03/03/99 13:29:55
My URL:http://www.fortunecity.com/boozers/whitehorse/506/
My Email:gerry_benner@yahoo.com

Comments:
I served aboard the USS Oriskany from Sep 69 to Oct 73. I flew on while the ship was on route to Sasebo, and have great memories of all the guys in the OE Division for the next 3 cruises, especially any ET who worked on the island equipment (radar, repeat rs, IFF, tacan, loran). I have a web page at http://www.fortunecity.com/boozers/whitehorse/506/ with lots of pictures of the ship and some OE crew members from these latter years of the Vietnam War. .... Gerry

Jerry Warchol - 03/03/99 00:02:45
My Email:warchols@ix.netcom.com

Comments:
served attack squadron 163 1964-1966 great job on this home page

Ken Kaiser - 02/28/99 08:07:37
My Email:Nifty5x@aol.com

Comments:
Forgot to mention I was in VFP-63. Would love to hear from anyone associated with the '66 cruise. I went on another cruise the following year aboard the USS Coral Sea. This is an awesome website.

Ken Kaiser - 02/28/99 07:41:58
My Email:Nifty5x@aol.com

Comments:
I remember the fire as if it was yesterday. I, and a fellow mate, enjoyed the comfort of an office with two cots as sleeping quarters. This was at about midship. We received permission to install an air-conditioner to cool our office. Our regular quart rs were just below the starboard catapults. When we heard the "General Quarters" called we opened the hatch and quickly shut it as the smoke was so thick we couldn't see the bulkhead about three feet away. We made a quick decision to try for a ladder th t led to the flightdeck. We knew it was approximately 10-15 feet from our quarters. We made a break for it holding on to each other. When we got to the ladder, I lost my partner and was feeling around trying to find the way up to the flightdeck. All of sudden a hand caught ahold of my arm and I was whisked up the ladder. I only saw that it was a Marine who saved me from being a possible fatality. To this day I do not know who he was but I thank him everytime I think of the Oriskany fire. He deserves medal for sure.

Billy Gargan - 02/20/99 03:39:33
My Email:wjg@sonic.net

Comments:
I spent some time on board from early 65 and left shortly before the fire. This website is incredible and I have had many teary eye while reading the lines. I don't think there are any prouder moments that I can remember and now feel. Those guys in the "Hunter" squadron were the hardest hitting bunch I'd ever seen in my life. Are there any sites about the 162? Anybody remember a Communications Officer named Tanner? How about Tom Wilkerson? You are the greatest bunch of guys anyone could have ever known. Just look at this site and feel the energy. What a team. Thank you

Robert Japp - 02/16/99 20:33:23
My Email:fujijapp@oregontrail.net

Comments:
Great site, many memories come flooding back. Photo Album #5 the picture of President Kennedy, will always remember that day as I was in the receiving line. Got to shake his hand and noticed both of his shoes were untied, kind of odd I thought at the time. Served 9/60 - 8/63 B division #1 Fireroom.

John W. Craft - 02/16/99 15:18:09
My Email:HOBOJOHNIE@AOL.COM

Comments:
I made the entire 1966 WESTPAC cruise. At that time I was an AT1 with VF-162

George F. Baker - 02/16/99 03:20:00
My Email:georgenruth@earthlink.net

Comments:
Great sight. I was in Fox Div (PO1) from 1964-1968. I have hundreds of slides from all the cruises. Looking forward to San Antonio.

Robert K. Cocking - 02/12/99 04:47:25
My URL:http://www.cocking.com
My Email:robert@cocking.com

Comments:
Was on the Big "O" from late 59 to late 61, was in V-3 div. then to s-1 div. in bake shop, late went back to V-1 div, roof rat on 60 west-pac, then went to shore duty at north island, vfaw-3 got out in 63. best day was on the BIG "O" like to hear from old ship mate.

W. Mark Parrish - 02/08/99 00:26:47
My Email:NEVI18_NIGHT_OWL@JUNO.COM

Comments:
I was assigned to X Division, Personnel Office from (I think) NOV66 to AUG68, my memory is getting old. I am new at this internet thing and was shocked when I search the Mighty "O". Some of the people in X Div. were, Terry Humphreys, Steve Sweet, Raul G erra, Chief Rust, and the other names escape me. If I could ever find my cruise book, I could look the rest of the names up. I was one of the crew who helped carry the injured from the Forrestal to the sick bay from the flight deck. It would be great i more people from X Div. would find this place. Thank you for making a connection. Great page! Regards; Mark

Claude Drake - 02/07/99 03:08:33
My Email:txdrakes@swbell.net

Comments:
I was a radioman (blackshoe) under Captain Jack from 1968-69.

Bob Fawley - 02/05/99 17:52:22
My Email:barho@gte.net

Comments:
Was onboard Jan-Dec65 with VMF(AW)212 with the ordnance shop. Many good times to remember.

Jack V Bergman - 02/04/99 23:04:12
My Email:jjackso@bellatlantic.net

Comments:
Sir , This is response on behalf of a crew member of CVA-34 during 1966. The guest book name is the name of the ship's member, and he can be reached via email as supplied above. Thank you, John Jackson, USAF Viet_vet

Thom Dietmeier - 02/03/99 21:31:03
My Email:tdietmeier@agrp.alphatec.com

Comments:
I served on the Big O from April 65 to Dec 68. Second Div. Officer and OOD. Very interested in finding some of the old friends. Phone #;; 408-998-4620 x 106 or home 408-776-1688

Luella - 02/02/99 23:06:41
My Email:lb67@aol.com

Comments:
Thank you for sharing your memories of the fatal fire on Oct. 26, 1966. A dear friend Tom Spitzer, a pilot died that horrible day. We met while we were both attending college in ND. The last time I spoke with him was before he left for Viet Nam. We k pt in touch via mail and then I left ND and lost track of him, years later I learned of his death. I didn't know what happened except a fire took his life. After reading your story and finding his name listed I made a trip to ND and while there found the cementary where he is buried and paid my respects to this wonderful man. It has taken me 32 years to accomplish this. Thank you.

Larry Blocker - 02/02/99 04:22:31
My Email:larryrblocker@yahoo.com

Comments:
Great Site: I just went to see her yesterday 01/31/99 after 23 years. It brings a tear to your eye. I severed from 1973-1976 in the machine shop MR 3 in A div. Started in the SteamHeat shop and help there and engine room over the three years. Knew alot of great guys over that time. Hell there was more people on the Mighty O than in my home town at the time. We used to cuss that pig at the time, bu the old girl always brought us home. I am planning on the reunion in Oct. 1999 in Texas.

Gerald Vincent - 01/30/99 17:22:41
My Email:hdflhjsv@netwurx.net

Comments:
Served with VF-111 on 1966 west pac cruise year of the fire. Great site


R.L.RANEY - 01/27/99 22:46:21
My Email:bootsraney@webtv.net

Comments:
was aboard 58 to 59 ordinance division..was skeleton crew in 58 until recomissioned march 7 59 would like to hear from any shipmates...loved the big "O" hate to hear she is being scraped.... keep her in your hearts fellows and she will live forever...

James Brown - 01/27/99 03:31:23
My Email:lovejmbrown@msn.com

Comments:
I was in night fighter team George of Composite squadron 3. We flew our first combat mission on election day 1952. The night fighter (we hated the night heckler gimmick)team saw a lot of action and I earned the DFC and two air medals. I am writing a book and have had a request from a literary agent for the manuscript. But, I have only some poor copies of pictures. Do you have any? If you wish, I have the real story of the bridges of Toko Ri and will be happy to send if you wish. James L. Brown Commander, US Navy Retired.

Rick Chester - 01/24/99 22:19:35
My Email:chester@wcic.cioe.com

Comments:
I was 14 years old when the fire happened. I still remember the auwful feelings that I had hearing about the dead and wounded. I am pleased to see that there is a web page to commemorate this tragety. All my respect, Rick Chester

David Brooks - 01/21/99 23:57:35
My Email:oriskany@worldnet.att.net

Comments:
I was cranking the port cat when the fire broke out that fatefull day. I just had to visit the ship last year at mare island.Thanks to a barge that was tied up along side I was able to board and after a few hours in the dark,I was able to find my wedding ing that I lost while tightning a fitting on a Grove regulator.I wish they had not allowed the mast to fall on the flight deck the way they did ! seems so disrespectful;I hope the other Essex mus's can obtain some parts from her,especially the Lex. may be she'll stave off the torch a little longer. A presolisitation meeting is set for 2FEB99. Hope they don't figure anything out.

Mel Pate - 01/21/99 01:51:26
My Email:thepates@intranotions.com

Comments:
Hello,I pass by the Oriskany every day on my way to work. Its at the old Mare Island Navy Yard waiting to be scraped. If you would like some pictures let me know, I'll take some on my way to work and send them to you.

Larry Lefoy - 01/21/99 01:44:16
My Email:llefoy@msn.com

Comments:
This is a test.