USS Shields Guestbook Log

GUEST COMMENTS

Name:: Timothy Shields
Email:: shieldstr@yahoo.com
Date:: Monday, March 08, 2004
Time:: 11:17:11 AM

Comments

Very interesting. I would be interested in hearing more about the person that the ship was named after. Would any be able to shed some light on this? Thanks!

Name:: Vic
Email:: victer@coolgoose.com
Date:: Friday, March 05, 2004
Time:: 10:56:25 PM

Comments

Received today a flyer from the present replacement president of the Uss Shields association, Jack Blann. I would like to make a comment please for the benefit of all. Not knowing Jack, I am not sure he is aware of all the stuff that has happened or may not know the full details prior to his assuming control. First off, I was somewhat involved with the group that performed the reunion that went on out in Reno Nevada last year. I was there up until the end and was aware of the ceremonies and ballyhoos. Now I am not trying to cast any dispersion towards anyone in particular but some things that Jack touches on are just not correct. This has to do with his comment that the editorial comments on the ship web site are not true. They are true. Believe me 110% true. As I say above, I was there and saw and observed much of what went on that is addressed in the editorial that Jack mentions. I bought a cap and also I donated my 20.00 fee for the membership fee in hopes of getting updates etc about the reunion. I especially wanted to get the follow through program that the board of directors at that time promised all of us. Might mention that I have not yet received anything. But as the editorial on the web site states that the previous president posted after being misled by a couple of his board of directors, it is absolutely 100% correct. The 2 fellows he discusses in his editorial commentary are nothing but a couple of crooks. They kept back a bunch of money that was provided by all of us attending and did not turn it into the members pot for future use for our benefit as members. That is not right and I feel they should have been prosecuted for their thievery. I noticed by the flyer Jack sent that one of them is not there anymore but the other one is. In fact he is, of all things, the treasurer. For this I ask why? As a thief of the money that we all provided, why is he still on the board? It’s my understanding that he was the treasurer back then and according to Jacks letter, he is still the treasurer. In the closing report of proceeds and remainder money from the Reno reunion, the report shows a closing value balance of over $5,200.00 dollars. Yet, in Jack’s message, he says there is only a little over $3,000.00 dollars. Since the reunion in reno, there has been nothing that has gone on that as a member I am aware of to justify this depletion. HOLY MOLEY! What happened to the other $2,200.00 dollars? That my friend is what the treasurer I talk about in the above paragraph, and his compatriots made off with in Reno in the form of $1,200.00 dollars in cash and another $1,600.00 dollars in unrecovered caps that you and I as members paid for. My thinking on that is if they kept the caps, then they surely would be expected to pay for them. Therefore the cash they kept in their pockets and the cash that was due for the caps they snuck away with in Reno from the reunion process and the cash that the Reno process had left over came to over $5,000.00 dollars. Not $3,000.00 dollars! Again I ask why? Why is this treasurer, that has a history of shenanigans with the reno reunion money still on our board of directors? I for one with him there will not be providing any more money until he is gone. I hope others of you will follow suit. For those of you that James Durough has recently located after all of this happened in Reno, I suggest you read the commentary on the web site of www.ussshields.com. You will find it interesting. Disgusting yes! But very true and informative regarding a couple of fellows that I as a Shields crewmember am ashamed to have ever been associated with. I called the Reno president today, Chuck Timmerman about Jacks comment and interestingly enough, he says that Jack has never contacted him to ask about what happened in Reno regarding these 2 crooks. For that I say shame on you Jack. You should get a bit more involved before going off and making a false statement that you know nothing about. Makes me wonder what you as the new replacement president will do in the future. So to all the crew that served aboard before me and after me all that I can say is BEWARE! Hold onto your dollars! Vic

Name:: William E. Szurley
Email:: wszurley@comcast.net
Date:: Thursday, February 26, 2004
Time:: 01:22:42 PM

Comments

My Dad, Edwin J. Szurlej S1(TM), served on the USS Shields in 1945, he passed away Feb 27, 1998, I'm sure he would have loved to see this site. Thank you.

Name:: Stephen Boynton
Email:: boyntonhaus@alltel.net
Date:: Wednesday, February 25, 2004
Time:: 12:08:52 PM

Comments

My father, Dale B Boynton, served on board during 1955&56. He is listed on the crew page. I regret to inform you that he is now deceased. Thanks for keeping the memory of the Shields alive. Stephen Boynton

Name:: Joe Murphy
Email:: m.mur1@juno.com
Date:: Friday, February 20, 2004
Time:: 08:22:22 PM

Comments

I wasan original Crew member and a plank owner of the USS Gurke DD 783. In Apache Junction, tonight, I attended a stage show in apache Junction, AZ and sat alongside one of the men who served on the Shields. He told me that You are having an Reunion in Branson, MO in October. Ours is in Branson in May of this year.

Name:: Lenard B. Flygare
Email:: flygarebk@cs.com
Date:: Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Time:: 11:01:45 AM

Comments

The spelling of my name needs to be corrected. Lenard is not spelled with an o. THANKS! Lenard B. Flygare IC3 1968-1970

************************************************
***Note from Webmaster***
Spelling of name has been changed. Thank you.
************************************************

Name:: John Truesdale
Email:: See Below sign in
Date:: Tuesday, February 10, 2004
Time:: 02:29:51 PM

Comments

Forgot to say that I'm writing a book called "Blue Water To Brown", and the SHIELDS takes up the first quarter of the book.

Name:: TRUESDALE, John H (SN) serial # 699-49-29
Email:: ol_hippie@raven-villages.net
Date:: Tuesday, February 10, 2004
Time:: 02:21:18 PM

Comments

Rescrew 64-67

Name:: Glenda Neal Smith
Email:: glenda@misschem.com
Date:: Wednesday, February 04, 2004
Time:: 04:19:27 PM

Comments

It is sadness that I must report the death of one of your shipmates on the USS Shields. Huel L. Neal died on January 13, 2004 and was laid to rest beneath the flag of our country which he so proudly served. I am his daughter and would like to stay on your e-mailing list. I met 3 of Daddy's shipmates in October and deeply appreciate learning about his time aboard the Shields and the friendships that lasted a lifetime. Thanks to all of you who served so bravely. Glenda Neal Smith 236 Woodridge Drive Yazoo City, MS 39194 e-mail: glenda@misschem.com

Name:: W.E.AL CURTIS
Email:: HACURTIS@PCWEB.NET
Date:: Saturday, January 24, 2004
Time:: 10:56:48 PM

Comments

MY FIRST SHIP , SPRING 1950. T.I ,OAKLAND. JUNE JUNEAU WAR,SORRY POLICE ACTION BROKE OUT IN KOREA.SENT TO HUNTERS POINT REFITTED. TRANSFURED TO DE 422. ANY ONE REMEMBER THE SEA SCOUTS WHO GOT TATTOOS. WE GOT HELL FOR THAT. SO MUCH AND SO LONG AGO. SO LONG SHIELDS.

Name:: Robert F. Phillips
Email:: robertfphillips@yahoo.com
Date:: Saturday, January 24, 2004
Time:: 08:00:55 PM

Comments

Served aboard Shields from Jan. 65-July 65. Was transferred from the USS Columbus when it was transferred to the East Coast. Separated from active duty in July 65. Worked for Earl Carr in the Ships Office. Johnny Mendola & Karl Dukes were there as well.

Name:: Larry Bradford, GMG2, 63-64
Email:: wingrider5@aol.com
Date:: Wednesday, October 08, 2003
Time:: 08:58:44 PM

Comments

After decom'ing the heavy cruiser USS Helena, I next rode the Ingersoll, DD652. In Oct.'63 I reported to the Shields until Jan.'64. I wasn't on board very long, but I'm proud to have been a "Tin Can" sailor.

Name:: Robert H. Taylor
Email:: bobcat5@pacbell.net
Date:: Tuesday, October 07, 2003
Time:: 04:37:29 PM

Comments

I joined the USNR in May 1947 while in high school. The Shields was one of our reserve training ships in Oakland, Ca. in the late '40s, along with a PC. My favorite time aboard the Shields was a two week reserve training cruise to Acapulco, Mexico in the summer of 1949. A fascinating voyage. A memorable experience on that trip was that many of the crew got Montezuma's Revenge which hit as we were getting underway from port at Acapulco. There was not enough space in the "head" so some of the crew had to hang their buttoxes over the side while hanging on to the handrails. An unpleasant experience. While I was on the Shields I was assigned to Gunnery Division as an SN. When the Korean War broke out I was called to active duty and assigned to the U.S.S. Cape Esperance, TCVE-88 and sea duty in the Pacific until my "Truman Year" expired in May 1952. I was an SH-3 and ran Clothing and Small Stores aboard that carrier...When I was called up I tried to get assigned to a destroyer as I loved that duty, but as is typical, the Navy puts one where they have not been trained to serve.

Name:: Tim Fox
Email:: tim.fox@53.com
Date:: Monday, October 06, 2003
Time:: 12:44:53 PM

Comments

My father, Joseph W. Fox, was a Radarman 2nd Class on the USS Shields in 1945. Unfortunately, Dad pasted away, 6/18/82. He was always very proud of his Naval Service and the Shields.

Name:: louanne harvey
Email:: sallilu26@sbcglobal.net
Date:: Monday, September 15, 2003
Time:: 08:30:57 AM

Comments

i am trying to reach clifford r ward who was a crewmember 1970-1971. can you help me? thanks

Name:: Jimmie Lee Smock
Email:: BobbyandAimee@aol.com
Date:: Saturday, September 13, 2003
Time:: 03:50:27 PM

Comments

If anyone is interested in contacting my dad- please email us so I can let him know.

Name:: Hugh R. Mc weyn (Mac) FT2 58-59
Email:: hrmmoon@aol.com
Date:: Wednesday, September 03, 2003
Time:: 05:15:33 PM

Comments

It was interesting to read the various comments from shipmates. It was even better to see the comments from spouses and descendants. I was on the USS Shea and USS Dukes County before the Shields so only had time for one tour to Japan before my enlistment was up.

Name:: James R Mackall,BT3
Email:: jijuma@aol.com
Date:: Thursday, August 21, 2003
Time:: 06:41:59 PM

Comments

This is my new E-mail address since my old computer went belly up. Hope to hear from one and all the shipmates I served with.

Name:: charles hampton
Email:: doghouse_01@msn.com
Date:: Sunday, August 17, 2003
Time:: 07:57:50 PM

Comments

member of the best ships in the navy. uss blandy dd 943 blandyorg,com

Name:: Robert E. Bunn
Email:: rbunn@igateway.net
Date:: Saturday, August 02, 2003
Time:: 02:15:03 PM

Comments

My brother, LTJG William E. Bunn served on the Shields 1953 to 1955 and has told me many interesting stories about the ship and crew.

You have a great web site and I appreciate the opportunity to check it out.

Robert Bunn Army Veteran

Name:: Gordon Micklos
Email:: gmicklos@gte.net
Date:: Monday, July 21, 2003
Time:: 03:54:16 PM

Comments

Thank you for the web site, the USS Shields and the other ships in which my Father served were a very important part of his life, when he passed on in 1996, he requested that he buried in his dress blues, which surprisingly enough, didn't even need to be cleaned, only the shoes were not there any more, still fit. Thank You very much.

Gordon Micklos

Name:: william e/ boling
Email:: billboling2@aol.com
Date:: Sunday, July 06, 2003
Time:: 01:22:19 PM

Comments

excellent

Name:: Walter B. McCarty
Email:: wmccarty@xtn.net
Date:: Friday, June 27, 2003
Time:: 02:51:03 PM

Comments

Its great to hear some stories of the ship. I served aboard from '59 to '62 through several WESTPAC tours and an overhaul in San Francisco. I couldn't have had a better experience - thanks to all I served with.

Name:: john mason RD3 1958-1962
Email:: rr0468@adelphia.net
Date:: Thursday, June 26, 2003
Time:: 11:06:50 AM

Comments

i would like to be add to the charter

Name:: john mason rd3 1958-1962
Email:: rr0468@adelphia.net
Date:: Wednesday, June 25, 2003
Time:: 11:39:26 AM

Comments

send me info ship reunion and etc.

Name:: Connie Colson
Email:: Cblthsprt@cs.com
Date:: Monday, June 23, 2003
Time:: 08:05:18 PM

Comments

Hi, My husband, Bob,BT3, was on Shields from 1960-1965. Unfortunately he passed away several years ago but I am so happy to find this site, and pass it on to my boys. Am in touch with several wives whose husbands were on Shields at the same time, but only one, Jean Kramer has email. I hate to be the bearer of sad tidings, but all the wives are widowed. Her husband, Ray, died last Sept. Gary (Robbie) Robinson died in 1984, and Lloyd Garrett about four years ago. I will be happy to explore this site further, and would love to hear from anyone who remembers Bob.

Name:: Linda Garcia
Email:: lcgarcia@pe.net

Date:: Tuesday, June 10, 2003
Time:: 02:01:17 PM

Comments

The 2003 reunion was great! I had a wonderful time talking with some of the guys that my dad (Henry M. Garcia) served with. The film of the Shields was priceless.

Name:: Kathryn Londot
Email:: Jak.Kat@verizon.net
Date:: Thursday, June 05, 2003

Comments

My uncle is Jack L. Londot. I am so proud of all of his accomplishments with our great US Navy and also, as a good person overall. I would love to hear some "Old Salt" stories about his naval career from those who knew him then.

Name:: Diane Winer
Email:: deerealtor@comcast.net
Date:: Friday, May 02, 2003

Comments

I am the wife of Martin L. Winer (Marty) thank you so much for the wonderful page. I have been looking for Marty's shipmates and this page has it all. Marty died January 2000. I would like any information of who his buddies were during his time on the Shields and if they have any stories to tell about him. Thank you for a job well done.

Name:: Jim Smith
Email:: greybeard22@hotmail.com
Date:: Monday, April 21, 2003

Comments

I have not been to this sight since it was first done. It sure has come a long way. We have done well. Thanks to all for your help. Jim Smith, RD3, '64-'66 Charter VP

Name:: David L. Tyson
Email:: tytyktkt@aol.com
Date:: Sunday, April 13, 2003

Comments

Just got word of the website and reunion planned in June 2003. I served aboard from January 1969 to May 1970 as an RD1. Great duty after a year in Vietnam. Please drop me an E-mail anytime.

Name:: brad white
Email:: bgwhite47@wm.connect
Date:: Tuesday, April 08, 2003

Comments

my dad was on the uss shields DD596. he was a TM3 his was glenn e. white he served from 1943 to 1946. He died on 4-6-2003. i want to put his name on the list of men that have died. please email back

Name:: Chuck Timmerman
Email:: info@ussshields.com
Date:: Thursday, March 27, 2003

Comments

If you don't like my love for my country, and our service members in Iraq who will soon be veterans like we, the members of the USS SHIELDS ASSOCIATION, don't read this; plus, LUMP IT!!!

Oh!!! By the way. Don't let the door knob hit you in the butt as you leave!!!!!!!!!

Below is (THE HONORABLE) Alabama State Auditor Beth Chapman's speech which resulted in five standing ovations, tremendous applause and an encore. It's a short read and well worth it.

"Stand Up for America Rally Speech By: Beth Chapman

I'm here tonight because men and women of the United States military have given their lives for my freedom. I am not here tonight because Sheryl Crowe, Rosie O'Donnell, Martin Sheen, George looney, Jane Fonda or Phil Donahue, sacrificed their lives for me.

If my memory serves me correctly, it was not movie stars or musicians, but the United States Military who fought on the shores of Iwo Jima, the jungles of Vietnam, and the beaches of Normandy. Tonight, I say we should support the President of the United States and the U.S. Military and tell the liberal, tree-hugging, Birkenstock-wearing, hippy, tie-dyed liberals to go make their movies and music and whine somewhere else.

After all, if they lived in Iraq, they wouldn't be allowed the freedom of speech they're being given here today. Ironically, they would be put to death at the hands of Sadam Husssein or Osama Bin Laden. I want to know how the very people who are against war because of the loss of life, can possibly be the same people who are for abortion? They are the same people who are for animal rights but against the rights of the unborn.

The movie stars say they want to go to Iraq and serve as "human shields" for the Iraqis. I say let them buy a one-way ticket and go.

No one likes war. I hate war! But the one thing I hate more is the fact that this country has been forced into war-innocent people have lost their lives - - and there but for the grace of God, it could have been my brother, my husband, or even worse my own son.

On December 7, 1941, there are no records of movie stars treading the blazing waters of Pearl Harbor.

On September 11, 2001; there are no photos of movie stars standing as "human shields" against the debris and falling bodies ascending from the World Trade Center. There were only policemen and firemen - -underpaid civil servants who gave their all with nothing expected in return.

When the USS Cole was bombed, there were no movie stars guarding the ship - - where were the human shields then?

If America's movie stars want to be human shields, let them shield the gang-ridden streets of Los Angeles, or New York City, let them shield the lives of the children of North Birmingham whose mothers lay them down to sleep on the floor each night to shelter them from stray bullets.

If they want to be human shields, I say let them shield the men and women of honesty and integrity that epitomizes courage and embody the spirit of freedom by wearing the proud uniforms of the United States Military. Those are the people who have earned and deserve shielding!

Throughout the course of history, this country has remained free, not because of movie stars and liberal activists, but because of brave men and women who hated war too. However, they lay down their lives so that we all may live in freedom. After all - "What greater love hath no man, that he lay down his life for his friend," or in this case a country.

We should give our military honor and acknowledgement and not let their lives be in vain. If you want to see true human shields, walk through Arlington Cemetery. There lie human shields, heroes, and the BRAVE Americans who didn't get on television and talk about being a human shield - they were human shields.

I thank God tonight for freedom - - those who fought and paid for it with their lives in the past - - those who will protect it in the present and defend it in the future.

America has remained silent too long! God-fearing people have remained silent too long!

We must lift our voices united in a humble prayer to God for guidance and the strength and courage to sustain us throughout whatever the future may hold.

After the tragic events of Sept. 11th, my then eleven -year-old son said terrorism is a war against them and us and if you're not one of us, then you're one of them.

So in closing tonight, let us be of one accord, let us stand proud, and let us be the human shields of prayer, encouragement and support for the President, our troops and their families and our country.

May God bless America, the land of the free, the home of the brave and the greatest country on the face of this earth!"

Name:: C Timmerman
Email:: info@ussshields.com
Date:: Thursday, March 27, 2003

Comments

This is worth remembering!

In England, at a fairly large conference, Sec. of State Colin Powell was asked by the Archbishop of Canterbury if our plans for Iraq were just an example of empire building by President George Bush.

Secretary of State Powell responded, ... "Over the years, the United States has sent many of its fine young men and women into great peril to fight for freedom beyond our borders.

The only amount of land we have ever asked for in return is enough to bury those that did not return."

It became very quiet in the room.

Name:: David Finck
Email:: finckdb@sbcglobal.net
Date:: Monday, March 24, 2003

Comments

I served as a reserve OS 1971/72 Flew over to Hawaii rode the boat back to San Diego. USS Shields was my first ship. She was great. Nice web site.

Name:: Jim Durough, ET2, 62-65
Email:: jimandEvelyn@aol.com
Date:: Friday, March 21, 2003

Comments

I am the keeper of the USS Shields DD-596 contact list. The list contains names, addresses, phone numbers and E-mail addresses for over 650 Shields survivors and listings for over 200 deceased shipmates. To obtain an E-mail copy of this list drop me a line at the above E-mail address and be sure to put USS Shields DD-596 in your E-mail subject heading.

Name:: Leslie (Peasley) Taylor
Date:: Tuesday, March 11, 2003

Comments

I am wondering if there is someone who actually reads these e-mails, the web master, perhaps, who would be willing to send this to Robert James Doll. He and Ed Finn and Joyce McLaughlin and I had some fun adventures back 40 years ago. I have only recently learned of the death of Ed Finn and have been searching fruitlessly on the internet for an obituary. I would so appreciate being in touch with someone, perhaps, Bob, who might have the information I seek. Thank you.

Name:: Chief Bill McAfee, Ret.
Email:: bddmcafee@aol.com
Date:: Sunday, March 09, 2003

Comments

Served onboard from 1969 to 1970, Was assigned to the forward fire room. Was the first reservist to have a FULL reserve watch.

Name:: Zac Henderson
Email:: zac_henderson@neo.tamu.edu
Date:: Tuesday, March 04, 2003

Comments

My name is Zac Henderson, and I am the grandson of Billy Lechler. My granddad was aboard the USS Shields DD-596 during the years, '51, '52, '53, and '54. He has told me several fascinating stories of his times on the ship. I am a sophomore at Texas A&M University. Each and every day that I get older, I realize more and more just how much our armed forces mean and meant to our great country. I am so proud of him for all that he and everyone else did for our country. God bless him and everyone else who has fought or is fighting for our beloved country.

Sincerely, Zac Henderson

Name:: Ed Nuccio
Email:
Date:: Sunday, March 02, 2003

Comments

enjoyed the site

Name:: C Timmerman
Email:: info@ussshields.com
Date:: Saturday, March 01, 2003

Comments

Richard: I was not aware the posting of your painting's graphic, which I came across and copied off of the internet onto our newsletter, as a problem. I just re-read your 'approval' for our usage given some weeks back, and you are correct in pointing out that the approval was worded only for posting onto our web site; which does reflect your name and provides a link to your website where I located the graphic. I apologize for the oversight and misunderstanding. Chuck

Name:: James Grandjean
Email:: chiefgreand@aol.com
Date:: Sunday, February 16, 2003

Comments

I love the picture of the Shields knifing through the seas. Are copies available?

Name:: Roger Brotherton/60-62
Email:: rbroth44@aol.com
Date:: Tuesday, February 11, 2003

Comments

EVERY TEN YEARS, AS SUMMERTIME NEARS, AN ANNOUNCEMENT ARRIVES IN THE MAIL. A REUNION IS PLANNED; IT WILL REALLY BE GRAND; MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND WITHOUT FAIL.

I'LL NEVER FORGET THE FIRST TIME WE MET; WE TRIED SO HARD TO IMPRESS. WE DROVE FANCY CARS, SMOKED BIG CIGARS, AND WORE OUR MOST ELEGANT DRESS.

IT WAS QUITE AN AFFAIR; THE WHOLE CLASS WAS THERE. IT WAS HELD AT A FANCY HOTEL. WE WINED AND DINED, AND WE ACTED REFINED, AND EVERYONE THOUGHT IT WAS SWELL.

THE MEN ALL CONVERSED ABOUT WHO HAD BEEN FIRST TO ACHIEVE GREAT FORTUNE AND FAME. MEANWHILE, THEIR SPOUSES DESCRIBED THEIR FINE HOUSES AND HOW BEAUTIFUL THEIR CHILDREN BECAME.

THE HOMECOMING QUEEN, WHO ONCE HAD BEEN LEAN, NOW WEIGHED IN AT TWO-TWENTY-SIX. THE JOCKS WHO WERE THERE HAD LOST ALL THEIR HAIR, AND THE CHEERLEADERS COULD NO LONGER DO KICKS.

NO ONE HAD HEARD ABOUT THE CLASS NERD WHO'D GUIDED A SPACECRAFT TO THE MOON; OR POOR LITTLE JANE, WHO'D ALWAYS DRESSES PLAIN; SHE MARRIED A SHIPPING TYCOON.

THE BOY WE'D DECREED "MOST APT TO SUCCEED" WAS SERVING TEN YEARS IN THE PEN. WHILE THE ONE VOTED "LEAST" NOW WAS A PRIEST; JUST SHOWS HOW WRONG YOU CAN BE NOW AND THEN.

THEY AWARDED A PRIZE TO ONE OF THE GUYS WHO SEEMED TO HAVE AGED THE LEAST. ANOTHER WAS GIVEN TO THE GRAD WHO HAD DRIVEN THE FARTHEST TO ATTEND THE BIG FEAST.

THEY TOOK A CLASS PICTURE, A CURIOUS MIXTURE OF BEEHIVES, CREW CUTS, AND WIDE TIES. TALL, SHORT OR SKINNY, THE STYLE WAS THE MINNIE; YOU NEVER SAW SO MANY THIGHS.

AT OUR NEXT GET-TOGETHER, NO ONE CARED WHETHER THEY IMPRESSED THEIR CLASSMATES OR NOT. THE MOOD WAS INFORMAL, A WHOLE LOT OF NORMAL; BY THIS TIME WE'D ALL GONE TO POT.

IT WAS HELD OUT OF DOORS; AT THE LAKE SHORES; WE ATE HAMBURGERS, COLESLAW, AND BEANS. THEN MOST OF US LAID AROUND IN THE SHADE, IN OUR COMFORTABLE T-SHIRTS AND JEANS.

BY THE FORTIETH YEAR, IT WAS ABUNDANTLY CLEAR; WE WERE DEFINITELY OVER THE HILL. THOSE WHO WEREN'T DEAD HAD TO CRAWL OUT OF BED, AND BE HOME IN TIME FOR THEIR PILL.

AND NOW I CAN'T WAIT; THEY'VE SET THE DATE; OUR FIFTIETH IS COMING I'M TOLD. IT SHOULD BE A BALL, THEY'VE RENTED A HALL AT THE SHADY REST HOME FOR THE OLD.

REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE ON MY HEARING AID; MY PACEMAKER'S BEEN TURNED UP ON HIGH. MY WHEELCHAIR IS OILED, MY TEETH HAVE BEEN BOILED; AND I'VE BOUGHT A NEW WIG AND GLASS EYE.

I'M FEELING QUITE HEARTY AND I'M READY TO PARTY I'M GOING TO DANCE 'TIL DAWN'S EARLY LIGHT. IT'LL BE LOTS OF FUN, BUT I JUST HOPE THERE'S ONE OTHER PERSON WHO CAN MAKE IT TONIGHT.

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

WILL THIS BE US AFTER TWO OR THREE REUNIONS?

ROGER BROTHERTON (60-62) TREASURER

Name:: Kenneth W. Kyle, CDR, USNR(ret)
Email:: cdrken@oregon.com
Date:: Wednesday, January 29, 2003

Comments

I served in SHIELDS from July, 1954, to May, 1957, as Ship's Secretary, Legal Officer, Communications Officer, and Operations Officer. I could tell you many "sea stories" about such incidents as the ship's grounding at the Pearl Harbor entrance and the near sinking of the gig when it was tied under the discharge from the forward head. Lots of laughs with that one. I'll save these and other stories for a reunion.

Name:: Dave MacPherson
Email:: davemac@mindspring.com
Date:: Tuesday, January 28, 2003

Comments

Dave: Great!

Would you mind posting it on our web site please; in the Guestbook section; so that others that did not get this email can see it.

Thanks

Chuck

Dave MacPherson <davemac@mindspring.com> wrote:

This was sent to Carol by a retired Army officer and fellow member of "The Elders" who was much impressed by it. So am I. Dave >"The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without >trials." -Chinese Proverb >---------forwarded message----- > >Seaman McCarty's "A" School Graduation Speech > >(Captain Len Kaine, United States Navy (retired) President Golden Rule >Society, Inc Coronado, CA) > >Seaman Anthony McCarty says... > >"Today I was asked to speak to you all, as a representative of class 90. >I >was asked to speak on our reasons for joining, our inspiration, our >spirit, >and any wisdom we've picked up along the way. These are all heart-felt >subjects, full of emotion for all of us. Bear with me if I get a little >corny. > >I believe we all joined for our own reasons. After all, we came into the >Navy as individuals. Whether it be because of money for college, >patriotism, >family tradition, need to prove oneself, or that Wendy's wasn't hiring, >we >all came into the service with our own hopes and dreams and desires. For >whatever reasons we had, we all made the same decision, heard the same >promises from our recruiter, signed on the same dotted line, and took the > >same oath. From that moment on, we were united by that choice, the choice >to >leave our friends, family and lives, and literally sail off to distant >shores. > >Joining when I did, I'd always asked if September 11th was the reason I >joined the Navy. For more than a few of the sailors in the audience, I'm >sure it was the reason. It was hard not to look at the scenes on TV and >not >want to do something, anything, to stop the things we all saw from ever >happening again. I had already joined by then, I was in DEP (Delayed >Entry >Program) at the time. I was staring at the TV, and it slowly dawned on me > >that what I was seeing was what I would be up against for the next four >years of my life. I realized that I would, more than likely, be going up >against the people who did this. > >Staring at the scene of the airliners ramming into the World Trade Center > >again and again, I felt like a kid who had been called out on a dare. I >realized I would be responsible to stop things like this from happening >again. > >More than anything else here today, I hope that you grasp the fact that >you >matter. One day, or even everyday, you will be asked to make decisions >that >will change the world in some way. You will be asked to make a difference >in >someone's life, or the world in general. If you do a good job, then good >things will happen. Do a bad job, and someone, somewhere, will pay for >it. Here at IS "A" School, we've heard time and again that we are at war. >But >it's a war unlike anything the Navy has fought before. It's not a war at >sea, they have no Navy, and we have the greatest fleet that's ever been >afloat. > >It's not a war in the air, they have no air force, and we would fly >circles >around them even if they did. It's not a war on the land, they have no >standing army as such, and when we do meet them on the ground, it's a >matter >of how few causalities we might take, not a matter of if we will win. >This >is a war fought in the caves of third world countries, in the streets of >our >major cities, in the communications in the airwaves, in the depths of the > >internet, in quiet nighttime covert operations, and on the screens of >CNN. >The only way they can beat us is by being smarter than us, trickier than >us, >by coming up with something we hadn't thought of, or hadn't prepared for. > >The only way they can beat us is by having better intelligence than us. >In >short, as the newest members of the Intelligence Community, the war is >ours >to win or lose. > >Instead of running from this responsibility, I hope you embrace it. In >the >civilian world people do astounding things to prove to themselves that >they >matter, that the choices they make affect the world. They do almost >anything >to feel excitement and be challenged. They go to movies, they ride roller > >coasters, they abuse alcohol, they marry someone they shouldn't, they >climb >mountains, they join motorcycle clubs, and do anything at all to feel >like >their life has consequences and excitement in it. I think it would amaze >most IS " A" students to find out how many people truly do envy you. >You're >young, you're intelligent, you're in a war with a horrible enemy that >needs >to be stopped, and you're in a position to truly affect that conflict. >You >have the love and thanks of a grateful country. You have a job that can >lead >you to anywhere on Earth, doing anything. You have all the elements of a >great story in your life. Without taking away from the seriousness of >what >you do,! or ! sounding like a recruiting commercial, you truly have the >chance to live an adventure, if you choose to look for it. > >By far the greatest challenge in writing this speech was trying to define > >the spirit I've seen in both my class, IS "A" School, and the Navy as a >whole. > >I've meet so many people who give of themselves selflessly and seemingly >on >instinct. One person in particular I would like to thank is Chief Jordan, >on >behalf of all the BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition / School) >candidates. >This is a man who wakes up every morning at 0330, Monday through Friday, >and >leads us in two hours of intense PT (Physical Training). He does this for >no >other reason than he doesn't want a group of young men to give their all >and >fail. But he is by no means the only person I've seen give themselves in >small acts of heroism everyday. > >I've seen the staff and instructors teach their trade with patience, >humor, >and devotion. I've seen in it in my classmates and shipmates. It's >humbling >to look around you and see so many people who give of themselves. It >makes >you want to try harder to be a better person, just to fit in. > >I realize I don't have the words to grasp the spirit I've met in many of >the >people here at IS "A" School. There are some Eastern philosophies that >teach >that some ideas are too big for words, that we should never try to >explain >some truths, because one is doomed to never to be able to do them >justice. >All you do is demean it, turn it into some little sound bite. I feel that > >applies here. I'm not that poetic, I don't have the words. So, like any >good >IS with nothing to say, I plagiarized. There's one quote I have kept with >me >since I joined the Navy. Months before I left for Boot camp, I had the >chance to go to Coronado, CA and tour the BUD/S facility. My recruiter >was >a SEAL and a BUD/S instructor, and he pulled some strings for me. There >is a >T-shirt shop in Coronado, one that sells shirts to all the graduating >members of various BUD/S classes. Each class has their own T-shirt >design, >and there is a book filled with all the patterns of the T-shirts, some of > >them going back decades. Most of them were Hoo-yah macho stuff, or funny >little witticisms, but there was one that stood out in my mind. I >memorized >it, and put up in my locker at BUD/S. It came the closest to capturing >for >me what it is to be in the Navy, and to do the job all of us in IS "A" >School will start to do. On the back of the T-shirt was a silhouette of a > >lone man, holding a rifle, standing watch on a hill. > >Above him was a small quote, and these are the words I'll leave you with. > >It was quote from the Bible, Isaiah 6:8: "And I heard the voice of the >Lord >say, "Whom shall I send, and whom will go for us?" Then I said, "Here I >am. > Send Me"."

Name:: Don Elliott
Email:: eaglclaw@tds.net
Date:: Sunday, January 19, 2003

Comments

I was aboard the Shields from 59-60. We left port, and as always beat the other ships, due to the DE Flashpoint Experimental Boilers that we had. In the forward Boiler room, we had an American Indian that taught some of us how to make ring ring sets out of the Monel nuts from the boilers.

We had to kick off both boilers, and when we kicked it in the Butt, we couldn't hear ourselves think. We had taken enough nuts off of the boilers to really make it rattle. We spent the next liberty, replacing Monel nuts with Brass.

We were really proud of the hash marks that we had earned at the time.

Name:: Doyle Long/1960-1961
Email:: jasteam@goldstate.net
Date:: Friday, January 17, 2003

Comments

What one 'old timer' sez......

OK, I decided to give up on English... this is why:

1) The bandage was wound around the wound. 2) The farm was used to produce produce. 3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse. 4) We must polish the Polish furniture. 5) He could lead if he would get the lead out. 6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert. 7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present. 8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum. 9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes. 10) I did not object to the object. 11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid. 12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row. 13) They were too close to the door to close it. 14) The buck does funny things when the does are present. 15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line. 16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow. 17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail. 18) After a number of injections my jaw got number. 19) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear. 20) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests. 21) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

Let's face it - English is a crazy language. There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France. Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat. We take English for granted. But if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig. And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham? If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't the plural of booth, beeth? One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese? One index, 2 indices? Isn't it crazy that you can make amends but not one amend. If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it? If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? Sometimes I think all the English speakers should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane. In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital? Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell? How about this? You park in the driveway and drive on the parkway? How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites? You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out and in which, an alarm goes off by going on. English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all. That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible.

PS. - Why doesn't "Buick" rhyme with "quick"?

Name:: Corey Stark
Email:: thestarkfamily@earthlink.net
Date:: Thursday, January 16, 2003

Comments

My dad was 60-64...

Name:: C Timmerman
Email:: info@ussshields.com
Date:: Sunday, January 12, 2003

Comments

Food for thought; courtesy of a former shipmate...

Presidents

Interesting Look what happens when a President gets elected in a year with a "0" at the end. Also notice it goes in increments of 20 years.

1840: William Henry Harrison (died in office)

1860: Abraham Lincoln (assassinated)

1880: James A. Garfield (assassinated)

1900: William McKinley (assassinated)

1920: Warren G. Harding (died in office)

1940: Franklin D. Roosevelt (dies in office)

1960: John F. Kennedy (assassinated)

1980: Ronald Reagan (survived assassination attempt)

2000: George W. Bush ????????????

And to think that we had two guys fighting it out in the courts to be the one elected in 2000.

Comments

Chuck, is this really the ship that was named after my ancestor? Wow! and I thought all this time I was a plane freak! I never really got into the ships but this is way kewl. I think my Thomas Shields would be very proud of all this. The web page is just awesome. You really did a great job. Keep up the great work. Maybe we will see you at the reunion...Marie

Name:: Marie Shields Johnson
Email:: M8J27@aol.com
Date:: Thursday, January 09, 2003

Comments

Name:: Alex Leondis
Email:: marnyalex@earthlink.net
Date:: Thursday, January 09, 2003

Comments

Holmes was Commodore DesDiv 172 at the time Capt. Lee Winters was relieved of command at Pearl Harbor following SHIELD's grounding on Tripod Reef. Holmes shifted his flag to SHIELDS and also took command until a the new skipper A.F. Hollingsworth took command in Yokosuka(I think it was there) shortly thereafter.

I forgot to mention that Al Hollingsworth, who was a good skipper, has passed away. I don't know about Holmes. Ken Kyle may know. I think that Rusty Holmes was quite famous for exploits during WWII. I've seen his name mentioned in histories. GEO

The following is what I (Leondis) can remember from working with Capt. Hollingsworth:

I remember that it was on a beautiful day, early 1955, Capt. Hollingsworth was on the bridge, while I had the Conn and we were going about flank speed for some reason. The location was some 30 to 50 miles west of Taiwan when a lookout spotted a buoy (probably a fishing net buoy) close aboard and dead ahead. I did not want to shake things up too much, so I told the Captain that we just spotted the buoy and asked if he felt we should try to avoid hitting it. Capt. Hollingsworth said calmly that we were obligated to avoid the buoy so please try the maneuver. I said "aye-aye Captain" and gave an order to the messenger to pass the word "The Ship will make a hard turn. Secure all loose gear and get ready to heel." Then I said "Right Full Rudder". The Ship began to heel down on the Port side and then I said "Ease the Rudder to Hard".

As I remember, the Ship heeled about 20 degrees and we looked to see if the buoy could be seen as the Ship passed. I gave another command to turn "Left Standard Rudder, resume your original course." We all looked for the buoy, but it might have been under water and we never saw it again. At the speed we were making it would be some distance before it would right itself and we did not necessarily expect to see it.

The Captain was satisfied that we did our best and he spoke a few well chosen words to the personnel on the bridge that left us feeling that we did our job. More than that, Capt. Hollingsworth, by his bearing and manner of behavior created the situation where morale of the Ship's Personnel were increased. The bad situation of the grounding on Tripod Reef was further behind us and that made us happier and better because of Capt. Hollingsworth. May he rest in peace. Alex

Name:: USS Shields' Web Miss
Email:: kory@ssinternet.net

Comments

Here's USS Shields "New and Improved" Guestbook Entry Page.

Thank you for your compliments on our web site. It's been a lot of work, but well worth it.

See you at the reunion!

USS Shields Web Miss

Below are the discussion messages from the previous "Forum" page.

Great site

From: Tim "Ski" Karwoski BT3 1971-decom
Date: 27 Dec 2002
Time: 22:09:45

Comments

Chuck, Nice looking site! I know what goes into getting everything uploaded to the Internet...good job! Thanks for all your efforts with this site and the Reunion.

Early history

From: Harold Cromer/43-45
Date: 17 Dec 2002
Time: 14:07:36

Comments

Chuck:

A little more information on the USS Shields:

While in Bremerton at the navy yard, while the Shields was being built, the Metcalf 595, Hart, Evans, was also on the ways being built or along side the pier being outfitted with ordnance, communication equipment, radar, guns, etc. We had an on base barracks, during the day we were aboad learning our boilers, steam lines & propulsion machinery, foster wheeler boilers 490 lbs line pressure, superheated steam.

Our ship had the 1st of a new type 5" 51 caliber VT fuse: we called it "Buck Rogers" ammo. If we were firing at a dive bomber & ammo was set for 5,000 ft., it would explode as it got to the "proximity" of the dive bomber even it is was at 3000 - 4000 ft, (variable proximity) we fired off approximately 2000 rounds of our ammo at the Japs in Mira Bay in the Lutong area of North Borneo when the Japs were retreating from the Baliopapken oil fields in the southeast coast of Borneo as the Aussies drove them out of So. Borneo, North to Mira Bay & N. Borneo. We had 2 Austrailian spotters aboard, spect the next 3 days and nights shelling them. We then got underway for Porto Princessa on the Island of Paliawan In the Phillipines. All hands were loading ammo over 2000 rounds of 5" 51 cal. came aboard then back to Mira Bay in N. Borneo for more shelling. We then left Borneo and went back to Okinawa. We were there when Japan surrendered.

PS While waiting on the Shields to be commissioned, the skeleton crew were aboard during the day. After 5 PM we were asked to work different civilian jobs. I worked at night for Railway Express. Joe Bost was a diesel mechanic on the Great Northern Railroad ferry from Bremerton to Seattle. These jobs personnel were all drafted and they asked us if we would give them a hand due to the shortage of labor.

Hero identification needed please

From: Bill Johnson/SCPO
Date: 05 Dec 2002
Time: 12:38:52

Comments

Nov. 15,2002 Bremerton. WA 98310

To whom it may concern: This is a story of how two individuals aboard the USS Shields, DD 596 absolutely saved my life but due to my short-sightedness, misplaced self-interest & stupidity, as far as I know, they received no official recognition, congratulations or even a service record entry. Today I don't even know their names. In 1961,1 was a Sonarman (S01) aboard the USS Shields, DD 596. The Shields, a Fletcher Class Destroyer, had previously received an upgrade to its AN/SQS-4 Sonar making it an RDT (Rotating Directional Transmission) modal designated an AN/SQS-30. Part of the upgrade was a transmission switching cabinet. This cabinet was located below the forward part of the OC Division berthing compartment. To further place the compartment, the hatch to this unventilated equipment space was directly beneath the forecastle hatch ladder. It was to this switching unit that I took a quarter bucket of Trichloroethylene (a recommended Electronics cleaner- it tended not to leave a residue film, but one in gaseous form is heavier than air) & a 1" sash brush. My intent was to do a quick cleaning of the Transmission/Reception switching contacts.

I had been at it about an estimated 15/20 minutes, when I said to myself" I've got to get out Of here, as the fumes were getting too strong." The last thing I remember was bending over to Put the brush in the bucket. The next thing I knew, I was lying on the OC Division's deck, with Two Radiomen standing over me. They said that they had heard a noise from the equipment Space and had looked down the hatch opening. What they said they saw was me, looking like I was climbing the ladder, but slowly sinking down. They hauled me out and I came to. I thanked the guys and told my Division Officer, but didn't tell the OD or carry it any further.

It was with much afterthought, coupled with experience learned thru 18yrs of Fire Dept volunteer and EMT (Emergency Medical Tech.) training completed after my Naval career, that I realized that, had they not been in the compartment and had they not heard a noise and had they not decided to look down the hatch, I would have sunk into the no-oxygen atmosphere at the deck level and expired at age 26. Today, I regret that I didn't make more of the incident when it happened. Those two gentlemen, in my opinion, deserve the navy & marine corps lifesaving medals, or at least some official recognition for their act, which gave me an additional 40 plus years of life. They have my eternal gratitude. l am: SCPO Wilbert H. Johnson, USN Ret. 4458 Olympus dr. NE E-mail: whbilljohnson@hotmail.com Bremerton. WA 98310 Tel: (360) 782-0837 (H) & (360)479-6915 (W)

Reunion letter received

From: Elliott Wood letter posting
Date: 22 Nov 2002
Time: 13:37:57

Comments

Hey Guys:

Just got a membership application, and check, from (Mr).Elliott Wood, 63-64. Thought you might like to hear what he had to say............

Stated, and will quote;

"Chuck, I am really EXCITED (double underlined) about this, & am definitely coming. serving with you guys in the SHIELDS was the most exciting, toughest and adventurous thing I've ever done. Yours, Chuck Wood, ENS??"

Thanks CHUCK.......but how do you get CHUCK out of Elliott S.??????

Message received from shipmate

From: Reunion coordinator
Date: 22 Nov 2002
Time: 09:51:29

Comments

Am happy to learn of a Shields Reunion next June!

I reported for duty on her in October 1968 when she was in drydock at National Steel & Shipbuilding next to NavSta SDiego and served as Operations Officer and Chief in charge of Radio until we decommissioned her and turned her over to the Brazilian Navy on July 1st 1972. During that time we trained Reserves on two weeks active duty with R&R cruises to Acapulco, Mazatlan, Seattle, Portland, Monterey, San Francisco and all the 'fun' places in EASTPAC. I really enjoyed that tour of duty!

I was transferred to NAVFAC Ferndale here in Humboldt County for my twilight cruise and retired there in June of 1974. We stayed here because I had been born here. Could tell you more of that later.

My Navy career started when I enlisted in the Naval Reserve in May of 1947 and enlisted in Active Duty June of 1948. Went to Radio School and served on COMDESPAC staff for a few months on the Dixie and Piedmont. I wanted to go to sea and requested a transfer to Tin Cans and was sent to COMDESRON 9 for assignment and served on his staff for a year. I finally got transferred to USS McKean DD784 in June of 1950 and went straight to Korea, where we took part in the Inchon Invasion, shore bombardment and then went in to Wonsan to start the siege on that city. After that we returned to Yokosuka. I transferred to the USS Missouri and came back to the States. That was pretty much my first cruise. I got out in June of '52 and reenlisted in the Reserves in 1954 to retain RM2. Returned to active duty at NAVCOMMSTA SDIEGO for two years, made RM1, shipped over (USN) in 1959 and got orders to be on the commissioning crew of Cincpacflt's new command at Kunia (near Wheeler AFB & Schofield Barracks). I was initiated to Chief Radioman at Navcommsta Wahiawa 09/16/63.

From there I went to Navshipyd Hunters Point on the pre- commissioning crew of the Chicago (CG11) (originally CA-136) in Apr of 1964. From there to Service School Command Naval Training Center SDiego as an Instructor from May of 1965 to Oct 1968 when I was ordered to the Shields.

Thats it. If you need more info just ask and I'll try to answer.

We will plan to be at the Reunion. Usually they are so far away we could never attend. Thanks for contacting me.

Richard "Dick" Poe, RMC (Ret) 2000 Smith Lane #E Fortuna, CA 95540-2748 (707) 725-3953 dpoe86@humboldt1.com

Re: Welcome Aboard!!

From: Tim "Ski" Karwoski BT3 1971-72
Date: 18 Nov 2002
Time: 22:26:42

Comments

Chuck, Congrats on a great looking website! I'll be keeping tabs on this one often...WELL DONE, Sailor! SKI DD596 1971-1972

Diary entry from 1945

From: Chuck Timmerman
Date: 04 Nov 2002
Time: 11:28:57

Comments

Posted below is a copy of a diary entry received from one of our shipmates aboard in 1945. Interesting in that it depicts where the SHIELDS was on a day by day basis.

From: Wtjolly347@aol.com Date: Mon, 4 Nov 2002 12:54:59 EST Subject: Re: Plank owner/USS SHIELDS To: shieldsreunion@yahoo.com

I only served on the Shields from Nov. 30, 1945 until Feb. 9, 1946. Some of my notes from this period: Nov. 30, 1945 Reached Tsingtao, China. Transferred to USS Shields (DD596) for duty. (It's not in notes but ask me how I nearly froze to death that day) 1 Dec. 1945 Left Tsingtao with USS Metcalf (DD595), USS Duncan (DD574), USS Herndon (DD638) escorting carriers USS Antietum (CV36) and USS Boxer (CV21). 3 Dec. 1945 Turned Boxer & Antietum over to 6 destroyers from the 5th Fleet approximately 100 miles from Nagasaki, Japan. Set course for Shanghai, China afternoon of same day. Sighted and detonated a floating mine. 4 Dec. 1945 Arrived Shanghai. Ties up to USS Metcalf at wharf in Yangtzeee river. 7 Dec. 1945 Changed position. Tied up to USS Sierra (AD-18) for main generator repairs. 24 Dec. 1945 Left Shanghai with load of mail (packages) - 1200 bags. 26 Dec. arrived at Okanawa. Entered Buckner Bay at first light and anchored. 26 & 27 Dec. unloaded mail and took on fresh supplies. 27 Dec. 1945 Left Okinawa in evening. Had a rather rough trip. 29 Dec. 1945 Reached Shanghai. Used Chinese labor to unload mail. 30 Dec. 1945 Letters from home - first news since I left home 25 October - 66 days. 10 Jan. 1946 Went to mouth of Yangtzee River and anchored for night. 11 Jan. 1946 Left Shanghai with Metcalf (DD595) and Los Angeles (CA-135) 11 Jan. 1946 Rat changed from RT 3/C (Radio Technician) to ETM 3/C (Electronic Technician). Change in name only. 14 Jan. 1946 Arrived and anchored in harbor, Hong Kong, China 31 Jan. 1946 Left Hong Kong on a diplomatic tour. Had a Marine Major and a Standard Oil Co. representative aboard. 1 Feb. 1946 Arrived and anchored at Amoy, China. Had a Chinese Admiral aboard. 4 Feb. 1946 Left Amoy and reached Swatow in afternoon. Water was rough and too shallow to attempt entering harbor. Continued on to Hong Kong. 5 Feb. 1945 Arrived and anchored in harber, Hong Kong. 9 Feb. 1946 Transfered to ComCortDiv 50 for duty. Transferred from USS Shields to USS Finch (DE328) for duty. Went aboard the New Yorker (APL-ll) to await the arrival of the Finch. (The New Yorker was just a floating barracks-hotel.)

So that's the entire history of my Shields duty. I'll be 77 next March so sure glad I kept a few notes. Some of this I don't even remember as I've written it down. But I do remember very well the day I came aboard the Shields. They had drafts of men to go aboard several different ships in the harbor. We all boarded an LCVP about 4:30 or 5:00 PM for relay to the various ships. It was blowing a pretty good gale and spray was coming in pretty good. coxswain delivered all but me, and ran bacl and forth across the harbor trying to find the Shields. When he finally found her, I had to have halp getting my gear aboard - fingers so cold I couldn't lift anything. It was about 7:00 by now and I've not had anything to eat. The cook boiled to hot dogs for me, and I've not had a hot dosince then that I didn't remember the 2 best had dogs I had in my life. Excuse me for rambling - you only asked when I served. Jolly

CIC coffee pot

From: Smith, RD3
Date: 29 Oct 2002
Time: 21:22:38

Comments

When I was aboard, from '64-'66, the most important part of CIC was that coffee pot. That 50 cup pot was the center of attention. The officers would drop by, the first class would drop in and even a occasional chief would come by. They would say "HI" grab a half cup of "JOE" and leave. The pot was changed while in port about 3 times a day, and at sea countless times every 24 hours. At sea, 50 cups just didn't go very far when you were watching "TV" for 6 hours straight. This is a great web site. Keep up the good work.

Great Websight

From: rbroth44@aol.com
Date: 10/16/02
Time: 6:16:29 PM
Remote Name: 198.81.26.236

Comments

What a great sight, we who served aboard the USS Shields can be proud. Does this bring back memories or what? Hello to all my shipmates, I'm looking forward to seeing you next year here in Reno.

Roger Brotherton STG3 cruse of 60-61

Welcome Aboard!!

From: C Timmerman/1960-1964
Date: 10/14/02
Time: 12:39:27 AM
Remote Name: 63.201.27.87

Comments

Welcome to the website of the USS SHIELDS.

This is a continuing 'work' in progress and hopefully will expand as time goes by; with your assistance of course.

Feel free to post queries, stories, etc.. of the ship, yourself and/or your 'mates'. If you have anything that you would like to see posted, please pass along the information to me at ...

shieldsreunion@yahoo.com

If you have pictures of interest to all shipmates, we welcome them. Pass them along in a JPG format for review via the email address above. Can't guarantee we will get all of them posted; but certainly will give it a try.

See you in Reno in 2003!!!!

Chuck

Name: Test
Referred: Other
Remote Name: 207.190.142.35
Date: Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Time: 12:17 PM

Comments

jksjka