Name: B. Merritt Email: bayshore11@yahoo.com Date: 18 Jul 2010 Comments Just visited the Wisconsin today 7-17-2010. It seems they are planning on opening up selected parts of the interior to tours in the future. There is a diagram in the entryway of the museum that notes which areas will be included. I can't remember what they were. I was going to ask when this would occur, but the assistants on deck were very busy and it was stifling hot. Was wondering about the wood deck - how was it cared for? and I assume it is being cared for on a regular basis now? Comments from Dom; The diagram you saw was released to the public at the Ships Turnover ceremonies on April 16, 2010. We have not been told when any of those areas will be open. The present teak deck is not the original deck. It was replaced prior to the re-commissioning of the ship in 1988.  In the 1940's and 1950's, the decks were cleaned by holystoning them. Holystoning was done with a stick resting in a depression in the flat side of a stone and held under the arm and in the hands and moved back and forth with the grain on each plank while standing - or sort of leaning over to put pressure on the stick driven stone. In the 1980's-1990's, holystoning was no longer used, a cleaning agent was used, decks were scrubbed and hosed down. Prior to the ship being turned over to the city of Norfolk, the US Navy was maintaining the ship, now it's Norfolk's responsibility. Name: McDonald H.T. 53 TO 56, 3 rd DIV Email: hmcdonald1532@att.net Date: 15 Jul 2010 Comments Well sad to say , I just lost a good friend that joined the Navy when I did, He was CPO Jack McFall  Ret. He and I left home on Feb 10 1953 for Great Lakes Naval Training Center . Had lost track of him after basic and didn't see much of him till after he had retired . Needless to say he will be missed .MAC Comments from Dom; Hi Mac, it's always a sad time when you lose a close friend. Name: Ruth Becker Butler Email: butlerruth@ymail.com Date: 13 Jul 2010 Comments I am seeking information on my father Irving Frank Becker who served on the USS Wisconsin BB 64. If you have any info please contact me at butlerruth@ymail.com Comments from Dom; Hi Ruth, our ships roster lists an Irving F. Becker, CSR3 1/24/51 - 1/7/52. Name: Gary Finley Email: gmfinley71@yahoo.com Date: 09 Jul 2010 Comments Hello Dom and fellow shipmates. I found the site today and have spent the past 4 hours looking at pictures and reading the web site. While reading the Deck Log I came to an entry by you about the USS Wisconsin Veterans Farewell Cruise, to Earle N.J. for ammo offload, I was a Seaman in 1st Div. at that time, wish I could have seen the 16's firing but I was in the bottom of Turret 1 loading shells. It was quite an awesome experience to set sail with you guys onboard. I currently work onboard the USS Yorktown CV-10 and from time to time have run into a few Battleship Sailors (easily recognized by the Ball Cap). Such an great feeling knowing how elite of a group you are part of. You do a great job with the site and I can't wait to go visit her in Norfolk. Comments from Dom; Hi Gary, thanks for your website compliments it's a lot of work but also a lot of fun. As for visiting the ship, you can only walk her main deck and perhaps some of the decks above. Interior is not open for visitation.    You missed seeing the 16's being fired because you were at GQ, so if you want to see what you missed, check YouTube, someone copied what I had on our website and put it on YouTube.  I had to take it off our site because of the heavy traffic that was being attracted to our site due to the 4 minute video of the 16's firing. Our Host provider was ready to shut us down.  The video that has titles at the beginning and at the the end is the one I had set up for our site.       By the was Gary, I don't see you listed as a member of our association, hummmmmmmmmmmmmm!   We would like you to join our Wisconsin Family. We have over 1000 former crew members that were part of the "elite group" you mentioned above. Name: John Samb Email: jsamb@namb.net Date: 08 Jul 2010 Comments I have heard that now there are tours of the interior of the ship. Is that correct? The last time I was visiting in 2007 or 2008 we could only walk the deck. On that occasion a very nice man took pictures of my daughter and I with a disposable camera, and then just gave us the camera. These were great memories for both of us. She has also been in Pascagoula since then for the building of the ship she is on, the USS Truxtun DDG 103. Comments from Dom; Hi John, sorry to say but the inside of the ship is not open at this time. You can still do what you did the last time you visited her, that is walk her decks. Keep checking the Nauticus website, www.nauticus.org  to see if they list when the public will be able to visit the interior of the ship. Please tell your daughter that we thank her for her service and good luck on the new ship. Name: Brenda Dickinson Email: brendald@cableone.net Date: 06 Jul 2010 Comments My father, Donald Leroy Dickinson served in the USNR on the U.S.S. Wisconsin from June 21, 1945 to October 2, 1946, as Seaman 1st Class. He received ALNAV - Pacific Theatre Ribbon, American Theatre Ribbon and the Victory Medal. He served at NTC, Samson, NY and was honorably discharged at Bainbridge, MD. I have photographs of his time at Manicani, P.I., Panama Canal, U.S.S. Portsmouth cruise to Puerto Rico among others. He died April 28, 1999, in Apple Valley, CA, at 71 years old of heart attack. Comments from Dom, Hi Brenda, you and I have exchanged a few emails in regards to your father. Thank you for sending me the photos, I have posted four of them. They can be seen on, 1940's-Page 5 numbered 541 to 544.  If anyone can fill in the names of the other sailors please send them to me at, dombb64@ptd.net Also, if anyone knows Donald's division, I would like that information also. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 05 Jul 2010 Comments Had a really nice day aboard the USS Hornet, CV12. It is now a museum at the Alameda Naval Air Station. Got to tour the crews quarters, CPO mess, bridge, hangar deck, flight deck etc. What was great was the crews quarters still had the racks that all of us older guys remember from the Wisconsin before it underwent the changes. The Wisconsin is in much better condition visually than the Hornet but it was great to go below decks. I hope to get to do that aboard the Wisconsin one more time.  Comments from Dom; Thanks' for reporting back and glad you enjoyed your visit to the Hornet. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 02 Jul 2010 Comments HAPPY 4TH OF JULY TO ALL!! My wife and I are planning to spend the day aboard the USS Hornet, CV12. It is now a museum, similar to the Wisconsin, and is docked at the former Alameda Naval Air Station in Alameda, CA. They have lots of festivities planned as well as tours of the ship. I'll let you know how it was. Comments from Dom; Hope you and your wife have a great day visiting the Hornet. Name: McDonald, H.T. 3rd Division 53 to 56 Email: hmcdonald1532@att.net Date: 01 Jul 2010 Comments Well it's that time of year again, wishing all a happy 4th of July , but remember, He that comes forth on the fourth with a fifth may not come forth on the fifth. Have fun drink responsibly. MAC Comments from Dom; Well said, Mac. Name: Jonathan P. Alter Email: cebudragonlady@hotmail.com Date: 15 Jun 2010 Comments Looking for any info and memories about Chaplain Herbert W. Buckingham - who was on the WISCONSIN during the Korean War. Comments from Dom; Hi Jonathan, hope someone answers you. Name: John Tomcho Email: dmat63@hotmail.com Date: 04 Jun 2010 Comments Dom. I will. Thank you. Where can I find a ship roster? Thank you. Comments from Dom; Hi John,  click on the "Members" button at the top of any page. When the other page opens go down to the 1940's and you have  four pages of names. If you recognize anyone and his name is in blue, click on it and you can send him an email.   Hope you find a few. Name: Charles Stewart EM1 (Ret) Plankowner 87-89 Email: stewtek@msn.com Date: 03 Jun 2010 Comments Hello Shipmate, I notice that in http://www.cowpensvets.org/crew.html listed our fallen shipmate that was killed aboard the USS Cole as "Operations Specialist" 2nd Class Timothy Lamont Saunders, 32, of Ringgold, Va. However, Petty Officer 2nd Class Saunders is listed as an "A Ganger" aboard USS Wisconsin BB-64. Maybe there should be some clarify to this. Thank you for the wonderful job you do. And I must attend the next reunion. Cheers! Charles Comments from Dom; Hi Charles, thanks for your entry. You are half correct.  Aboard the Wisconsin Timothy was an FN in "A" Division. If you have the 1990-1991 Desert Shield Desert Storm Cruise Book, you will find Timothy listed on page 117.  His rate aboard the the USS Cole was Operations Specialist Second Class. We try to list our former crew members with the rate/rank they had while serving aboard the ship. This is done for recognition purposes only. Thanks for the site compliment.      Please try to attend this years reunion and perhaps you can round up a half a dozen or more of your shipmates to attend also. OH well I can dream can't I. Name: John Tomcho Email: dmat63@hotmail.com   Date: 30 May 2010 Comments Served summer 45 through summer 46. Looking for others who served then who are still with us. Comments from Dom; John, have you checked our members list to see if you recognize anyone? Name: Dale Miller Email: patriotblue02@yahoo.com Date: 26 May 2010 Comments I severed on board from 90-91 and will be retired on Aug 2010 and wanted to know if I could have flag flown on that day. Comments from Dom; Congratulations on you pending retirement. Our association does not control this, you can go here to get your answer. Contact the Hampton Roads Naval Museum at 757-322-2988 or email gordon.b.calhoun@navy.mil   to make arrangements, or if you have questions. Name: George Mitchell Email: pumpdocchief@yahoo.com Date: 13 May 2010 Comments I served in BB-64 Aug '88 until my retirement Jun '90. I was LCPO of Turret #3. I too am proud to be called "Battleship Sailor". What a ship she is! It was quite an experience to serve as a GM & to have the retirement ceremony I did on this great lady! Great site! Comments from Dom; Hi George thanks for your comments.  It would be great to have you as a member of our great Association. Name: McDonald,H T 3rd divison 53 to 56 Email: hmcdonald1532@att.net Date: 11 May 2010 Comments Hi Dom, What happened to the post I posted maybe a week ago . I did everything I was supposed to do ,is there a problem ? MAC Comments from Dom; Sorry Mac, I didn't get it.  Name: McDonald,H.T. 3rd Division 53 to 56 Email: hmcdonald1532@att.net Date: 08 May 2010 Comments I remember this day well ,I was taking a nap in my bunk and doing a very good job of it too . When al of a sudden my nap was interrupted by a big thud . Was routed out and sent to my damage control station ,which was at the location ,carrying a large fire extinguisher. Now the rest is history. MAC. Comments from Dom; Hi Mac, looks like most of us were taking a nap that day, including me. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 06 May 2010 Comments Well today is the 54th anniversary of the great bump in the water. A little meeting with the USS Eaton. A day I will never forget as I am sure all those aboard will not forget either. It would have been a great cruise, I think. Anybody remember where we were headed? Comments from Dom; Hi Irving, according to the ships history, on May 5th (1956) the Wisconsin took part in the Joint Civilian Orientation Cruise off the coast of Virginia. The following day the two ships collided in a heavy fog.  The rest is history.               Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 28 Apr 2010 Comments Great comments Dom. They turned our beautiful fighting lady into a sissy ship during the Gulf war. Air conditioned mess deck? You have to be kidding! As for the heads, I am sure our "troughs" are long gone and they put doors on stalls. And what was better than getting out of your rack and standing barefoot on the cold, steel deck. Maybe I don't really want to go below anymore. I would enjoy going to the navigation bridge. Spent time there during firing range practice. Comments from Dom; Irving, I wouldn't say they turned it into a sissy ship, far from it, they just modernized it. You are correct about the heads. Name: Lyle Baumgarten Email: lmbrahma@merr.com Date: 25 Apr 2010 Comments While at the Norfolk Navy Base awaiting to board the USS FORRESTAL, I was on pier #5 as the USS WISCONSIN sailed into the harbor with the Sailors manning the rail and the ship's band on deck playing ON WISCONSIN. I still get the chills when I think of it. Being a native of the state of Wisconsin and now a graduate of the UW it is even more memorable! Thanks USS WISCONSIN for the memories. Lyle Baumgarten, Hillpoint, WI Comments from Dom; Thanks Lyle for your entry. Name: Russ Moody Email: russ2146@yahoo.com Date: 21 Apr 2010 Comments My Uncle, John E. Hartman was a Fire Control man in the 1944 commissioning crew. I would like to know if a copy of the 16 April 1944 Muster Roll is available and how a copy of it might be obtained. I believe his battle station was a Director on the Port side of the aft stack, which might explain why he entered the Navy with blonde wavy hair and ended the war bald. My Aunt attended the Commissioning and the only thing she ever said about it was about how guests were fed in the crews mess. Hot dogs, beans and ice cream, The last thing in the chow line was condiments. She asked for mustard. She said the poor kid was so nervous, the mustard plopped onto her ice cream Comments from Dom; Hi Russ, the ships rosters for the 1940's and 1950's are stored at the National Archives at College Park, 8601 Adelphi Road College Park, MD. 20740-6001.  General Information phone number, 301-837-2000. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 13 Apr 2010 Comments I checked out the below decks pictures. I was especially intrigued by the "Crews Quarters" photo. It doesn't look anything like when I was aboard. What happened to the pipe and canvas racks that we loved so much. What was it, 4 racks high? Comments from Dom; Hi Irving, the good old days as we knew them, are gone forever aboard the Battleships. Not only have the racks gone, you should see the mess decks. No more exposed steel decks, they are covered with linoleum . No more long tables and benches, they have been replaced with small oblong tables that seats four with attached swinging chairs. Each table has a red and white checkered table cloth. On the tables you will find condiments and napkins. Gone also are the metal trays we ate from, they have been replaced with plastic trays. Reason being, food was getting cold due to the air conditioned mess deck.  Also new was a salad bar and dessert bar. In the center of the mess deck you can help yourself to drinks, milk, juice, coffee etc. Put it this way, this part of the ship is somewhat like a cruise ship. I don't even want to go into the changes made to the head.   Name: Paul R. O'Connor Email: olights1@verizon.net Date: 10 Apr 2010 Comments Dom, I remember the trip to Port au Prince very well. I had a 1st Class QM first name John. he asked me to go ashore and buy him a solid piece of Mahogany, 3' by 5' that he planned to make into a coffee table back in Norfolk. When we got off the Liberty Boat we were in a big circle with a fountain in the middle. We told a cabbie what we wanted and after some yelling to other cabbies in Creole patois we took off on our search. We stopped a number of times while our driver spoke to other locals. We kept getting deeper and deeper in the slums of Port au Prince. I thought we would be found dead with our throats slit someplace. Eventually we wound up in a back, back alley where their was a wood shop. My limit was $10.00 US for the piece of wood. After some serious haggling and arm waving by our driver we bought the solid piece and headed back to the Landing. Just know that that size of wood weighs a ton. we hauled it into the Liberty and went back to the ship. Now we had to get it up the gangway which was real struggle. When we got on deck, the OOD gave us a hard time but we finally convinced him that it was for a QM1 and everything was OK. I can't remember who went with me on this adventure but I am glad that I had company. Paul Comments from Dom; Hi Paul, thanks for the interesting story.  It was pretty run down then and I was surprised to see that it's still run down today. Name: George Matthai Email: matthai@fuse.net Date: 05 Apr 2010 Comments It is with great regret that I inform you of the passing of one of our shipmates and a dear friend. Captain Francis "Skip" Crawford passed away in February 2010 after a long illness, he was 79 years old. I Believe he served on the Wisconsin in the early 50's. I have been in touch with his family,. His daughter commented she would like to keep his memory alive by me continuing the web site I created for him about "His" sea stories. I'm sure she and her family would appreciate if you would go to his web site www.sailorstale.homestead.com  and click on "Sign my guest book" and leave a comment, especially if you knew him or have met him. Skip..."Fair winds and following seas and long may your big jib draw!" Comments from Dom: Skip, will be remembered in our Memorial Service at this years reunion in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin  September 7-12th. Skip served aboard from 1952 to 1954. In our 1952-1954 cruise book, he is listed as second in command of  "D" Division. Name: John Britt BT3 Email: ibarpirate55@embarqmail.com Date: 02 Apr 2010 Comments I was on this awesome ship during desert storm I hope to attend a reunion soon can not afford it this time when I get to she her again ill cry of course I do miss her I just hope I can go below deck to my home #3 fire room. Anyone who was a shipmate please contact me ibarpirate55@embarqmail.com  or if you served on her before, I love to hear any sea stories. Forward for freedom and its not cheap Comments from Dom: Hi John, hope you hear from some of the guys. If and when you do attend our reunions, you will hear plenty of sea stories, guaranteed! Name: Email: Date: 31 Mar 2010 Comments On 23 Feb, SSG Anthony Folstad Wrote "My grandfather Clarence Folstad served on the USS Wisconsin from 16APR1944 to 28JAN1946. I have a copy of his service record book and I am trying to find out what his Rate and Class badges would look like. Rate abbreviation is F1c and USNR Class is V-6 SV. If anyone can help please email. Thank you!!! Oh ya my grandfather is very much alive and I am trying to replace his awards and decorations lost over the years. The abbreviations stand for: V6 -- General Service and Specialists SV -- Selective Volunteer (U.S. Navy) According to the Glossary of U.S. Naval Abbreviations. you can check them all at http://www.history.navy.mil/books/OPNAV20-P1000/V.htm Comments from Dom; Thank you for the information, nameless writer Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 26 Mar 2010 Comments I hope that the first visitors below decks will be former crew members and will relay pictures for all the members to see. I visited her last June and loved every second and wished I could go below. I don't know if I will ever get the chance to go back again (I live in California) so pictures are my only hope. Comments from Dom: Hi Irving, if your are looking for internal ship photos, go to Other Photos Page-4 there are 218 internal photos starting with #346. It's the best we can do until the internal of the ship is open to the public. Name: Harold McDonald Email: hmcdonald1532@att.net Date: 10 Mar 2010 Comments Well here I am again ,been away for awhile I let my membership lapse and just renewed it ,so I guess I am back .Just wanted to say hello to all my shipmates from the 53 to 56 era 3 rd Division ,I've missed being on here ,or should say missed being able to post ,I'm here every day reading what others post. Dom sorry it took me so long to pay my dues ,but times have been hard lately , looking up now though .Will write more later MAC. Comments from Dom; Welcome back, Mac. Glad things are starting to look better for you. Name: Ron Gorsky Email: rcgorsky @verizon.net Date: 28 Feb 2010 Comments My dad GM1c Jack A. Gorsky served on the ship during the late fall of 1946. Newspaper articles we have state that he was selected to pull the lanyard for a 21 gun salute. This was to be for the new president of Chile, Gabriel Gonzales Videla, in Valparaiso. He was also selected to fire a 19 gun salute for Admiral William D. Leahy when he boarded the ship in Balboa, Panama. Are there any crew members who recall this event ,the tour of the other south American ports ,where he served on the ship ,and why he would have been selected for the salutes? Ron Gorsky Comments from Dom; Hi Ron, I hope you get some answers from our 1940's crewmembers. If you are looking for the names of the other South Americas ports, check our Ship's History page, I'm sure they are listed there.   Name: Nikki Rump Email: Nikshadle@aol.com Date: 25 Feb 2010 Comments My farther Bud, sister Jessie, and I came to see her in July of 2008! She was so big, and my mouth was on the group! She was so much fun to see, I can't wait till they, open up more of the ship up to the pubic, I know the engine and boilers room, aren't going to be allow to be open, and I understand respect that! But, I just hope down the road! Its Just said, they didn't let the four ships stay together in the first gulf wars. I know the two younger sisters Mighty Moe, and Wisconsin went out there. Comments from Dom; Hi Nikki, looks like you enjoyed your visit to our ship. Some day, hopefully soon, the will open up some parts of the ship. Name: SSG Anthony Folstad Email: anthony.folstad@us.army.mil Date: 23 Feb 2010 Comments My grandfather Clarence Folstad served on the USS Wisconsin from 16APR1944 to 28JAN1946. I have a copy of his service record book and I am trying to find out what his Rate and Class badges would look like. Rate abbreviation is F1c and USNR Class is V-6 SV. If anyone can help please email. Thank you!!! Oh ya my grandfather is very much alive and I am trying to replace his awards and decorations lost over the years. Comments from Dom; Hi Anthony, the F in his rate stands for Fireman. So he was a Fireman First Class. In the 1940's this rating was associated with the following divisions; A, B, E, and M.  Does Clarence remember what division he was in or what kind of work he did aboard the ship? The USNR stands for United States Navy Reserve. Perhaps some of you 1940's era sailors can tell us what the V-6 SV stands for. Name: Karin Ficke Cook Email: karin@thecookcompanies.com Date: 12 Feb 2010 Comments What a FANTASTIC site. You can see the pride everyone has taken to make this informative, historical and memorable. Thank you all for making this such a wonderful tribute to a magnificent ship and her crews. Go Badgers! Karin Ficke Cook La Crosse, Wisconsin Comments from Dom: Hi Karin, thanks' for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed our site and come again. Name: Richard Skinner Email: rhs3717@sbcglobal.net   Date: 05 Feb 2010 Comments I wore my USS Wisconsin cap to a senior center I frequent and was approached by a guy with a Navy cap on. He asked if I had ever been to Guam. I said yes, we stopped there on the way back from Korea, to see if the floating dry dock there could raise our ship. Turns out it could and was the largest ship ever raised by a floating dry dock. (at that time) He said, I know, I was aboard the dry dock. Small world after about 58 years. Comments from Dom: How about that, sure is a small world Richard.  Those hats and jackets will do it every time. Name: Tom Bergman Email: tbergman@nc.rr.com Date: 30 Jan 2010 Comments Dwayne Shannon Sipe, Gunner's Mate assigned to Turret #1 was murdered recently along with seven others, including his wife a and daughter. Please remember him in your prayers. http://www2.wsls.com/sls/news/local/lynchburg/article/hundreds_attend_sipes_family_funerals_in_lynchburg/76963/ Comments from Dom; This was a tragic incident. Name: Arnold Millman, DCW3, 1946-48 Email: ammillman2@aol.com Date: 26 Jan 2010 Comments Better late then never, I want to wish all my shipmates a healthy and happy new year. I hope to get to a reunion at a time closer to home. I live in CT. and when it gets closer, maybe in Norfolk again, I would like to go. Till then, hang in there, stay well. Your Shipmate, Arnold Comments from Dom: Hi Arnold, it's never to late, Happy Healthy New Year to you also.  Name: KEITH BENJAMIN Email: kvbenj@comcast,net Date: 21 Jan 2010 Comments 1945 and 1946 A DIV. STEAM HEAT AND AFTER STEERING, ALSO SERVED AS A BOAT ENGINEER. ANY ONE OUT THERE THAT I MIGHT KNOW? Comments from Dom; Hi Keith, I hope you hear from someone. Name: Gerald R. Wendrick Email: grwendrick@yahoo.com Date: 02 Jan 2010 Comments Hi to all hope your holidays were of happy times. It has been a few months since I have last posted. In august I took my twin girls to Norfolk to see the ship, they are just amazed by her. Brought back lots of memories. She looked good for wear and tear and to look down the narrow streets of Norfolk and to see her is just amazing like something out of a movie. Went and seen her twice while I was there, on the second day got on board and the first tour guide started his little speech. He looked at me and asked why I was smiling then realized that he had met me the day before, he just looked at me and grinned, he told the other visitors to ask me about the ship and told them that I was aboard her during the gulf war. He just laughed a little bit with a big smile, well the next thing I knew was that I had a small group of people following me and my girls like I was the tour guide, for about an hour I had three couples walking the decks with me and the girls, asking question the whole time. I was amazed on how much I had remembered of her. "So I would like to thank my friends and shipmates who taught me so much about her, enabling me to pass it on to others." I could still smell the familiar smells of the old girl it was almost like being there back so many years ago, I truly miss that part of my life and at times find myself wishing I could relive those years aging. I have a question for Dom. I see the reunion is set to be in Wisconsin this year. I live about 4 hours north and myself and another old shipmate are planning on attending, could you give me some info on this so we may make plans. Comments from Dom: Hi Gerald, thanks for sharing the events you and daughters had while visiting our ship. This has happened to me on more than one occasion when I visited the ship. People see my former crewmember hat and or Wisconsin jacket and start asking me questions.  Just like you, I'm amazed at how much I remember. I don't mind the questions at all as a mater of fact I enjoy being asked. You also mention the familiar smells, yes she still has them.  I served in the 1950's I'm sure if you ask a member of the original 1940's crew, they will verify that the smell still lingers. I guess we will have to call it Mama's perfume. As for information about  the 2010 reunion, later this week there will be a special reunion web site launched that will have all the information and registration form. The link to this site will be on our Home Page. Name:            rick Email: rick@caswellaerospace.com  Date: 31 Dec 2009 Comments Great job on your research Dom!! I wondered about the Rolex name, I didn't know that they ever made cameras but that's what I thought it said when they showed a glimpse of the makers name on the show. I would not of thought to check eBay for the camera. As you may have noticed, I got the amount of what the pawn shop wrong as well, they gave $125, not $200. It came real close to being something you may have used before and since you were a photographer on the Wisky, that would have made it even more ironic than it already is!! Wow...if that camera could talk! I saw it on eBay and was wondering, did you bid on it? Comments from Dom: Hi Rick, No I didn't bid on it. I'm not sure it's a Navy camera. Someone who served aboard in the 1980's-90's may have owned that camera and glued that emblem on it for identification.  I know the photographers of that era were using 35mm cameras and video cameras. I don't know if they used 16mm film cameras.  I guess when I have time I will have to do more checking.  Have a Happy New Year Rick Name: rick Email: rick@caswellaerospace.com Date: 29 Dec 2009 Comments WOOHOO!!! Here's the clip of the show "Pawn Stars" when a couple bring in a video camera from the Wisconsin. Camera segment starts about 15 seconds in. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDGPuBw2CTk&NR=1  VIDEO HAS BEEN DELETED Comments from Dom: Thanks for the site Rick. See my answer below. Name: rick Email: rick@caswellaerospace.com Date: 29 Dec 2009 Comments Did anyone else see the episode of "Pawn Stars" on the History Channel this week? I watched it on the 29th and they rerun those shows forever it seems like. Somebody brought in a video camera from the Wisconsin. It was in perfect condition, built by Rolex and had all the paperwork and wood carrying case. The camera itself had a small metal plaque on it with the ships crest fastened to it. I couldn't believe the condition it was in, it looked brand new, not a mark on it. They even had a navel historian come in and authenticate it. The Pawn Shop bought it for $125 so if anyone is interested they might still have it. Comments from Dom: Hi Rick, thanks for the information about the camera. I researched the camera and to clarify the type of camera it’s a film camera and not a video camera. Also the brand name is, Paillard Bolex, not a Rolex (sorry Rick,).  I checked out the video that you mention in your next entry and as of today, 12-31-09 the camera is being sold by Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, on EBay. At the time I checked it out the bid was up to $456.00 and was listed as PAILLARD/BOLEX 16mm MOVIE CAMERA from U.S.S. WISCONSIN.  I was one of three ships’ photographers from April 1953 to June 1956 and that camera was not in our photo lab.  We did have a film movie camera that I used once; it was a small compact camera with one fixed lense and took a pre loaded film cartridge instead of reel to reel.  As for the ships’ crest affixed to the top of the camera, that emblem was not around in the 1950’s, it came out when the ship was re-commissioned in 1988. Again, thanks Rick for posting this info in our Deck Log.                                                     Name: keith chisholm Email: yogikc@yahoo.com Date: 27 Dec 2009 Comments i am an amateur historian of both naval history and naval battleship types and design........the reason is my mom's late father served on the uss pennsylvania in ww1 and he gets the credit for turning me into a lifetime fan of battleships.......my concern is with the lack of naval surface fire power.......my question which ive been trying to get an answer to for 3 weeks on other web sites is this: IF THERE WERE (GOD FORBID) A NATIONAL EMERGENCY PLACING PARTICULAR EMPHASIS ON THE UNITED STATES NAVY...WOULD BB-64 WISCONSIN BE A "POTENTIAL MOBILIZATION ASSET".......BECAUSE TO DESTROY THE MILITARY UTILITY OF THIS GREAT SHIP (IF) HER COUNTRY SHOULD EVER NEED HER AGAIN WOULD BE A DISASTER......I THOUGHT WE LEARNED IN WW11 THAT IN A TIME OF NATIONAL EMERGENCY THAT ANY NAVAL VESSEL CAN BE CLAIMED AND PUT TO GOOD USE SOMEHOW AND SOMEWAY....IM HOPING THAT WISCONSIN DOES NOT HAVE TO SERVE AGAIN....BUT...IF IT WAS NEEDED.....COULD SHE....AND WILL HER AMMUNITION STORES BE PRESERVED.......IM HOPING BB-61 IS A EMERGENCY POTENTIAL ASSET TO.......HAVING THESE SHIPS USELESS IN A TIME OF FLEET NATIONAL EMERGENCY WOULD IN OF ITSELF BE A DISASTER....(THANKS FOR YOUR TIME)-KEITH CHISHOLM......FAN OF BB-64,BB-61,BB-62,BB-63,AND ALL BATTLESHIPS FOREVER........THANKS!! Comments from Dom; Thanks for your question following is your answer:                       NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007                                                          BATTLESHIP TRANSFER In the conference report (H. Rept. 109-360) accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2006, the committee included instructions regarding the transfer of the battleships USS Wisconsin and USS Iowa to the Commonwealth of Virginia and State of California, respectively, and the President's reversion authority pursuant to a national emergency.  The committee seeks to clarify that battleships USS Wisconsin and USS Iowa must be regarded as potential mobilization assets and both the recipients and the U.S. Navy are instructed to treat them as such. The committee notes that the following measures should be taken: (1) the ships must not be altered in any way that would impair their military utility; (2) the ships must be preserved in their present condition through the continued use of cathodic protection and dehumidification systems and any other preservation methods as needed; (3) spare parts and unique equipment such as 16-inch gun barrels and projectiles, be preserved in adequate numbers to support the two ships, if reactivated; and (4) the Navy must prepare plans for the rapid reactivation of the two battleships should they be returned to the Navy in the event of s national emergency.   Name: Ed Mrozowski Email: EdsHockeyShop@comcast.net Date: 23 Dec 2009 Comments The ship is in absolute beautiful condition. Looks to me to be in better condition than the Missouri. Is the Wisky going to have to be dry docked like The Mighty Mo? Comments from Dom: No Ed, she has past bottom inspection so she will not have to go into dry dock. Name: Mike Stansbery Email: sigp239@gmail.com Date: 23 Dec 2009 Comments Just wanted to say how happy I am to see that our ship has been donated to the city of Norfolk. I look forward to being able to take a tour inside of our ship. I know that most likely I will not be able to visit my work center (Spot 1) but I sure would like to see my old rack and Forward and Aft Plot. It would be nice to walk the mess decks again and relive some memories. My family looks forward to seeing the ship that Dad served onboard. Former FC3 Mike Stansbery, FM Div, Spot 1 Comments from Dom: Hi Mike, we all look forward to the day we could go inside our past home. Name: JAMES HARBRIDGE Email: LIVEFORTHEDAYS@HOTMAIL.COM Date: 19 Dec 2009 Comments MY FATHER SERVED ON THE WISCONSIN IN 1944 HE HAS A COUPLE OF PICTURES LISTED ON THIS SITE I WAS WONDERING IF THERE ARE ANY MORE PICTURES OF HIM. WAS AMAZED TO SEE THREE OF HIS PICTURES HERE. DONALD LEE HARBRIDGE. THANK YOU JIM HARBRIDGE Comments from Dom; Hi Jim, thanks for your entry.  Perhaps if any of your Fathers shipmates have photos they may contact you. Name: Mrs. David Boyd Email: kellidiane2000@hotmail.com Date: 17 Dec 2009 Comments I have been periodically keeping up with this board. My Husband David Boyd served from 87-91,, He was in the engine room,, I think His nickname was Wheelie.. anyways, Wanted to let teh ones that he served with know how he was doing. We have three daughters and three grand kids,, life has been good and been married 18 years.. He often to this days talks about his days upon the whiskey,, Seems was the best days of his life from how he says.. Be well and Merry Christmas Comments from Dom; Hi Mrs. Boyd, thanks for your entry. Wishing you, David and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Name: HECTOR GARAY Email: GARAYBB64@GMAIL Date: 12 Dec 2009 Comments FIRST HELLO TO MY FELLOW BATTLE SHIP SHIPMATES. MAY ALL AND YOURS BE IN THE BEST OF HEALTH. AND THE REASON FOR THIS NOTE IS TO CORRECT MY PREVIOUS EMAIL ... RETIRED IN 99 AND MY EMAIL WAS MISSING AN A GARAYBB64@GMAIL .. Comments from Dom; Thanks for the corrections Name: HECTOR GARAY Email: GARAYBB64@GMAIL Date: 10 Dec 2009 Comments JUST WANT TO SAY HI TO MY FELLOW WISCONSIN SHIPMATES I'M A PLANK OWNER FROM PRECOM. DET NORFOLK TO DESERT SHIELD DESERT STORM, SO NICE TO HAVE FOUND THIS WEB. I WILL BECOME PART OF THE ASSOCIATION SOON I WAS RM2 BACK IN THE WISKY PUNCH DAYS I RETIRED IN 90 AND PRESENTLY RESIDE IN CORPUS CHRISTI TX. IF THERE ARE ANY RM'S FROM OUR CREW GIVE ME A HOLLER. MAYBE SOMEONE COULD TELL ME IF PO SANDBERG LIVES IN HOUSTON SEND ME AN EMAIL I WOULD LIKE TO TOUCH BASE WITH HIM. WELL FELLOW SHIPMATES TAKE CARE. HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS. Comments from Dom; Hi Hector, glad you found us. As for Ray Sandberg, click on the Members button at the top of the page then go to the 80's-90's R-Z page, click on his name and send him an email.  Looking forward to you joining our Wisconsin family. Name: Steven Brookshire Email: steven.brookshire@us.army.mil Date: 05 Dec 2009 Comments I'm a former WisKy sailor. Over the years I've look for a lot of former shipmates. But, as of yet I have not been able to find John Ventrone last known living in Ohio. If anyone has a phone number or address. Would like to here from you. Thanks Comments from Dom; Hi Steven, hope someone contacts you. Name: KEITH BENJAMIN Email: kvbenj@comcast.net Date: 27 Nov 2009 Comments ANYONE WHO WAS IN THE STEAM HEAT AND AFTER STEERING DURING 1945 AND 1946 WHO KNEW ME ("A" DIV.) I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Comments from Dom; Hi Keith, hope you hear from former crew members. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 27 Nov 2009 Comments I received an email from the Law Firm of Baron and Budd asking to relate my experiences while serving on the Wisconsin. They are a firm specializing in "Class Action" law suits, specifically asbestos related. Has anyone else heard from them or sent anything in writing? Comments from Dom; Hi Irving, I believe you are the first to inform us of this contact. Lets see if you get any responses. Name: E.P, Adams Email: edpadams@hotmail.com Date: 22 Nov 2009 Comments It was honor to serve my country on the USS Wisconsin, during the Gulf War. Started as a FN in Fire Room # 3, then became a SN RM 1990-91. Hello to all my fellow ship mates............ Comments from Dom: Hi E.P., hope you hear from your shipmates. By the way, have you given any though about joining our Wisconsin family? Name: Frank Sauve Email: franksauve2000@yahoo.com Date: 05 Nov 2009 Comments Hope you return to service, would be honored to serve on you. Comments from Dom; Frank, I think a lot of guys would be honored to serve on her again. Name: BM-3 Richard Allen 4th div. Email: allwis64@yahoo.com Date: 01 Nov 2009 Comments On board from 1951 to 1954, looking for shipmate, Charlie E, Richardson, 4th div. would love to fine this person. s.f.c. us army military retired Comments from Dom; Hope you find Charlie Name: Arsell Bridges )SM2) Email: arsellbridges@yahoo.com Date: 24 Oct 2009 Comments I am looking for a way to get a copy of the 1990 cruise book. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Comments from Dom; High Arsell, it seems the only place you can get this book is on eBay at a very high price. USS Navy Cruise Books On CD doesn't have this book in CD format at this time. Name: MAC/BM3 Michael Jones Email: destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Date: 18 Oct 2009 Comments I just want to check in to say hello to all my Wisconsin family! I recently talked with MACM Albrech and CWO3 Campomizzi both are retired and I'm still going 1 year and 8 months left on active duty. LT. Little and OSCM Lindsay is still going strong. I'm so very proud of those 2. BM3 Haymond I finally ran in him here in Georgia he is out the navy and happy. I just want to wish everyone a great week. God bless you all. Comments from Dom; Hi Michael, thanks for the update and thank you for your continues service. Stay safe. Name: John Britt  BTFN Email: ibarpirate55@embarqmail.com Date: 09 Oct 2009 Comments I can not put into words how much I miss that grey lady, served during gulf war. I want so bad to see her again but can not afford it just yet, been out of work for 6 plus moths. But before I die I so hope and pray I get to see her I'd be proud to kiss her decks again and salute her 352 483 1429. Comments from Dom; John, I hope a good job comes your way soon. As for our "GRAY LADY", many of us feel as you do about her. It's amazing the power she has and the love her former entrusted children of the 1940's, 1950's and 1980's / 1990's still have for  her. Now if only the powers that be would release her so that she can be opened to the public and especially to us who lived inside her to once again reminisce of our time aboard.  The crews of the three eras that served aboard her are starting to pass away, just look at our "In Memoriam" list on this site.   Our fear is not of dying, after all we joined the Navy knowing this could happen, our biggest fear is we may never get to see inside her again. Name: Tom Bradshaw , Pres. USS Wisconsin Assoc. Email: bb64bt1retired@aol.com Date: 09 Oct 2009 Comments In response to Mary Ann Walkover, I do remember Rick, he was a good sailor and we had many laughs and good times on board the "WisKy". We learned of his passing a few years ago and was honored at one of our Memorial Services at a reunion a few years back. He will be well remembered by all his shipmates. Comments from Dom; Thanks for your remembrance, Tom. Name: Williams, Pete Bm2 Email: pw38@att.net Date: 01 Oct 2009 Comments Just checking in again with the crew. I've missed talking and hanging out with friends doing all kinds of wild crazy things and I still can remember the past.. we had so much fun and wish we could get together again.. I'm doing ok here in Austin, TX, great health and wish everybody the best of health and good strength.. keep in touch.. any 2nd and 6th div out there.. God Bless everyone and the one's who's moved on to a better place.. Comments from Dom; Hi Pete, I hope you hear from some of your shipmates.                                                                Name: Jack Young Email: gy32@roadrunner.com Date: 30 Sep 2009 Comments I would like too know if anyone would know where too get the ships book 3 march 1951 to 3 march 1952 Anniversary Edition. I also think there might have been two others. Thank You for Your time. Jack Comments from Dom; Hi Jack, yes there were two other books in the 1950's.  The Officers and men of the USS Wisconsin (BB-64) proudly present THEIR SHIP'S HISTORY from April 1952 to April 1954.    Wisconsin Cruise Book 1955-1956.  One or two or possibly all three are being sold through eBay. Purchase price for these books are well over $100.00 each.  USS Navy Cruise Books On CD, has CD copies of these books at a reasonable price. I have not seen any of them but I have heard that they are pretty good. The choice is yours Name: ALICE [MEADE]McAstocker Email: tmcastock@aol.com Date: 27 Sep 2009 Comments O.C.Meade,  rate S1c V6 . My Father died in 1974. I do remember that My Father said He felt very safe on board the Wisconsin from day one Comments from Dom; Alice, most of us, if not all also felt very safe aboard this magnificent and powerful ship. Name: Alice [Meade] McAstocker Email: tmcastock@aol.com Date: 27 Sep 2009 Comments I would like to know if my Father Oglevee C. Meade was a Plankowner? He reported on board on April 16 1944 Thank You Alice McAstocker Comments from Dom; Yes he was, Alice. Name: mary ann walkover Email: walkoverzam@yahoo.com Date: 24 Sep 2009 Comments I am writing to see if anyone out there still remembers rick gray. he was on the USS Wisconsin in the years 1990 until it came home. as some know Rick passed away a year after his retirement. he was 45. we miss him so much but still would love to hear any comments about Rick. you were as much of his family if not more. he spent 26 or so years in the Navy. His first love. thank you in advance on anyone commenting. Comments from Dom; Thanks for your entry, Mary.        Name: Ernie Rubottom Email: rubottome@bv.com Date: 16 Sep 2009 Comments Regarding the story accounts from Lally and Ekis....Lally hit on it pretty good. I was in 1st division doing work near the forecastle when the GQ came over the 1MC...my GQ readiness was to secure/close all air vents along the starboard side I believe and then proceed to my GQ fire station near Turret 2. The voice on the 1MC said incoming starboard side, Impact imminent, brace for impact and I about crapped my pants...thinking, this is it. It's after this that my memory goes blank....I do however recall the talk of an IFF signal that wasn't set....it was explained to me later that this enabled us to know whether or not aircraft were friendly or not and that the GQ was called because some British planes wanted to check out the mighty Wisconsin. I am not sure how much of the British planes is true but that much has stuck with me for the last 19 years. Thanks Ekis for your recollection. SN Rubottom 1st Deck Division   Comments from Dom; Thanks for your recollection of the incident reported by Douglas Lally. See the previous Deck Log entries. 1-Douglas Lally Deck Log entry 24June 2008   2- Andy Ekis Deck Log entry 7 July 2008 Name: Trish Ratliff Email: trishratliff@yahoo.com Date: 15 Sep 2009 Comments I just watched a show about the USS Wisconsin. It was very touching and the attachment those men felt was so obvious and very sincere. It is almost sad that she is not out there now doing what she did best. Comments fro Dom; Hi Trish, thanks for your entry. We also would like to see her out there doing what she does best. Name: Fid Hommell Email: fidhimself@gmail.com Date: 13 Sep 2009 Comments Looking for anyone that was on the Wisconsin from Jan 1988 to Apr 1992 in the B-Div. I was in #1 and #2 fire room. please send me a email. Comments from Dom; Hi Fid, hope you hear from some of your shipmates. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 08 Sep 2009 Comments Dom, I always look forward to your Friday edition of your "Personal Log" to recall where we had been. I was wondering how I could get a chronological log of the period after you left the ship. For me that would be from June 1956 to September 1957. I know where we went, I just don't remember when. Comments from Dom; Thanks for reading the Friday Newsletter and my Personal Log. As for what you are looking for, have you read our Ships History? Some of what you are looking for is listed there. Just go to the top of this page and click on "Ship's History" Name: chad horton Email: cg_horton_99@yahoo.com Date: 05 Sep 2009 Comments I had a good time today.. 9/5/09 on it. Comments from Dom; Did you serve aboard the Wisconsin? Name: Steve Bridges Email: sbridges3@cfl.rr.com   Date: 27 Aug 2009 Comments I'm looking for a brass USS Wisconsin Zippo lighter, preferably the plankowner one. My ex-wife lost mine and I would very much like to replace it. If you have one for sale, or know of one please email me. Comments from Dom; Hi Steve, we do not have this lighter in our ships store. Try searching for it on the internet. Name: Micki Coughlin Email: mickroco@aol.com Date: 08 Aug 2009 Comments Hi Dom. Thanks so much for your help and your great site. Would love to hear from anyone who knew my father. His name was Maurice Roseman and he was on board from 1944-1945 and was called "Rosie". The pics I sent look great. Thanks again. Comments from Dom; Hi Micki, again thanks for sharing your photos with us. I hope you hear from some of your fathers shipmates. Name: Gerald Wendrick Email: gmwendrick@yahoo.com Date: 31 Jul 2009 Comments Finally after nearly 18 years I get to visit the old girl. Me and my family will be flying to Norfolk Aug 14 and spending 4 days there, my little girls can't wait to see her, I think there will be lots of old memories running thru my head. The friends who have since pasted away, and the ones who are still with us, wondering how each and everyone has changed since my time on the Wisconsin. Would be an honor to salute the flag on the old girl aging. I will wear my cruise jacket no matter how hot it is when I get there to show my pride of her. If any old shipmates will be there at that time would be great to see ya. I will be staying at the Marriot not far from the old gal. will take photos for family on her to share with everyone. Any advice to other things to do while we are there is greatly appreciated. Comments from Dom; Boy, someone seems very excited to see mama. I hope you realize that the inside of the ship is not open. You can only walk her main deck and three decks above. The Marriot is a beautiful hotel, that's where we held our 2008 reunion. Name: CARL A. MEYERS Email: ccamlv@yahoo.com Date: 28 Jul 2009 Comments Small comment about ships history (1947) In addition to reserve cruises to Panama, trips were made to Halifax, N.S., Port-au-Prince Haiti and Ponce, Puerto Rico during that time period Comments from Dom; Thanks Carl for the additional information.   Name: Michael Jones was BM3 now MAC Email: destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Date: 22 Jul 2009 Comments On July 13, I got to visit the mighty Wisconsin with my wife and Aunt! What a treat! I hadn't walked those teakwood decks in over 18 years! Everything virtually looked just as good as the day I left her. The Senior members of the Wisconsin's Crew were totally awesome! They sent me to the back office where I was given the Wisconsin package and the special hat pin that I will always treasure! It was a treat! With 2 years left on active service I look forward to the reunions in Norfolk at the ship in the future! God bless all my Wisconsin Sailors old and new! MR. RIDINGS was my old department head back in those days and I still remember when I did my Mess Duty in the wardroom I cleaned MR. WESTON'S stateroom : ). I think back on those days and they still bring me smiles! Comments from Dom; Hi Michael, glad you enjoyed your visit to our ship. The docents do take good care of former crewmembers. As you know some of them are also former crewmembers. They always do a great job of presenting our ship. Name: bt3 John Britt Email: ibarpirate55@embarqmail.com Date: 17 Jul 2009 Comments Trying to stay in touch with shipmates during gulf war, having trouble. Please pass this email address to all in question, from B div was in # 3 fire room. Came aboard in Mississippi ship yard also looking for video that was made during cruise I paid for but never received it. Any help would be appreciated Comments from Dom: Hi John, thanks for your entry. Here's an idea, check out the 80's / 90's roster for the shipments your looking for and if their name is in blue that means they have an email address. Click on it and send them a personal email. Just a suggestion. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 13 Jul 2009 Comments I had never looked at the "other" pictures. Great shots. Now I see why you don't need mine. Comments from Dom; Glad you got a chance to see and enjoy them. Name: Jamie Caskey Email: krug_jamie@hotmail.com Date: 07 Jul 2009 Comments Hi, I am looking for any pictures of my grandfather, Boyd Yetzer. I have a picture of him sketched by Irvin M. Beatty from 1944 while they were aboard the ship. Any information or pictures would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! Comments from Dom; Hi Jamie, I hope some of your grandfather's former shipmate see this and contact you. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 04 Jul 2009 Comments Yesterday, July 3rd was the end of my vacation yet is was one of the happiest days for me. I, along with my wife and daughter had the great pleasure of visiting the Wisconsin. Although I had not seen her since August, 1957 I remembered everything I was able to see. I was presented with a welcome package by Tom Dandes and the docents were very hospitable. I only wish I could go below. I did learn that the metal and canvas that we slept on was removed in favor of real bunks. The younger set are all "wooses". Anyway it was quite an experience. Dom, if you are reading this Tom said he sent you a photo disc of the entire interior of the ship. Will you be posting it? Comments from Dom; Hi Irving glad you and your family had the chance to see our ship. The Docents are great and do take care of former crewmembers when they come aboard. As for Dan's pictures, most of what he gave me has been on the site for the past few years. I guess you haven't gone into our "Other Photos"  page 1, that's where you will find them. I will go through his and pick out the ones that are not on the site. Name: Bm3 Anthony Gallardo Email: agallardo@bop.gov Date: 23 Jun 2009 Comments Question: I just recently found out that I will be in Norflok, Va. in Mid July. I was wanting to tour the ship with my Wife to show her the ship I spent five years on. Does any one know if We are able to show her the birthing areas ( our racks beds ) I wanted to show her the tight quarters we lived in. and the galley we all ate in. I use to work in the sail loft and would also love to show her the area I worked in. Thanks and look forward to seeing the Beautiful ship I called home for 5 years... Anthony L. Gallardo Pueblo, Colorado Comments from Dom; Hi Anthony, the ship is still not open to the public. Sorry to say, you can only walk her main deck and three decks above.  Enjoy your visit. Name: dan waeltermann Email: honeysucklefly@hotmail.com Date: 18 Jun 2009 Comments looking for any information about my father, Dan Waeltermann, on board from 3-1-47/3-15-47. Thanks, Dan Comments from Dom; Hi Dan, as per my email to you,  the copies of the ships rosters for that time period are not very legible. I did find his name listed on the 3/1/1947 roster but he was not listed on the 8/12/1947 roster. This means he was transferred off the ship sometime between those two dates. Name: Irving Zimmerman Email: howspar@aol.com Date: 13 Jun 2009 Comments I responded with an email to John Anderson about Greenock, Scotland. I remember it very well. I remember going into a local pub and the locals bought me and my buddy drinks, boilermakers to be precise. A shot (or 2) of Scotch and a warm ale. I remember watching the beautiful hills as we sailed in. I remember Glasgow and the Teddy Boys and the trouble that ensued. Anyone else have these memories??? Comments from Dom; Thanks for your memories. Looks like John Anderson woke up a few memory banks. ame: Michael Jones Email: destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Date: 07 Jun 2009 Comments Its kinda sad that when I try to find my Battleship buddies ALL of them are retired! I search Together We Served and I found 1! And of course he is retired. Serving on the Battle Ship is an Honor and truly something special. I want to find Sailors from my error to keep this Website going. I look at the meetings and there's no one from my error in the pics, were goanna have to change it some how. I found BM3 Walker who retired as a NC1, and Capt Coleman account is no longer active. I'm determined to find more older shipmates! As always have a great week fellow Sailors and friends. Comments from Dom; Hi Michael, that's the big problem we are having. We need the 3rd generation crew to start joining our association. We need them to try and make our reunions and to get involved with this great Wisconsin family. Sad to say, but without them, this association will go away.   Name: Michael Jones Email: destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Date: 07 Jun 2009 Comments WOW Mr. John Anderson, it looks like you have a pretty good memory! I'm impressed and the meals they throw together on some of these ships you will never get any where else. I can't help you with the memories but I enjoyed reading what you did remember. Glad you enjoyed the mighty Wisconsin! Have a great week Sir. Very Respectfully, MAC(SW/AW) Michael Jones Comments from Dom: Thanks Michael for you entry and thanks for your service.          Name:             John Anderson Email:             j.anderson@virgin.net  Date:            30 May 2009 Comments Dear Officers and gentleman of the New Jersey (BB62) and Wisconsin (BB64) This is addressed to those who may have served on these ships in the mid 1950s. I was a young Scottish boy aged 7 - 9 years only. I lived in Greenock. At that time my father was a Major in the local TA artillery regiment in Greenock having served in Burma, and was in Z reserve for Korea. He was also chairman of the local conservative party in politics. I say this as I do not know with what connection he had with the US Navy exercises' when both boats I believed served as Fleet oilers. I do remember being invited on both ships, and was very impressed, so much so that my hobby as an historian is battleships 1906 to date. I have followed the history of both ships with vigour. I admit the Missouri is the most historical and the Iowa is the class. However my affection is with the BB62 & the BB64, on a personal basis. I was invited on board the Wisconsin first, with my mother and father as a guest, on a Saturday afternoon, and I remember standing under those 16" guns that seemed to go on for ever. I think it was 1955-57. Members of the crew were invited back to our house and my parents had a cocktail party, at which I was told of Elvis Presley. Later, and I thought two years but I may be wrong, my parents were invited on board the New Jersey on a Sunday for a meal and it was the first time I had ham with apple sauce. I was also very impressed that you could put a coin in a machine and be served a bottle of Coca Cola. I thought these two occasions were two years apart, but I am not sure. When the gentleman and officers visited our house for the party we also took them up to the moors behind Greenock to let them TRY to pick heather, that was to no avail. Both my parents died over 30 years ago, so I cannot ask them, so I am hoping someone can fill in the gaps! Can anyone help me clarify my childhood memories, I would be most grateful. Kind regards John Anderson Comments from Dom: John emailed this information to me.  I asked John If it would be OK to post his request on our Deck Log in hopes that a former crewmember may read this and answer him. John agreed with the posting. The Wisconsin was in Greenock, Scotland July 26 to July 31, 1954, Edinburgh, July 26 to August 1, 1955, Greenock, July 1956 and Clyde, Scotland June 1957. John said our trip in 1954 could have been one of the two times he is referring to. John, let me know how you make out.                                 Name: Michael Jones Email: destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Date: 25 May 2009 Comments David from the UK, I still remember when we decommissioned the ship. It was in "Like New Condition". I went to Norfolk like 5 years back and to see the Ship in all her splendor was truly amazing. I have some old pictures of my time on the ship and I'm going to send them to the site next month. When I see the pics of my old ship mates and 2 of me it really brings back good memories. When I retire I must wear my uniform for the last time on that ship. Again all have a great week! Very Respectfully, MAC Jones Comments from Dom: Thanks for your entry Mac.                                          Name:             Michael Jones was BM3 now MAC Email:             destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Date:            17 May 2009 Comments Man I miss this great ship! I cant wait to see it in July! I was a SN and made it up to BM3! I worked on the flight deck and turret three! 1987 to 1992 I was there! God bless all the battle ship Sailors and there families! I WOULD GIVE THE WORLD TO SEE CAPT COLEMAN our old Executive Officer! There's no ship quite like ours. "Gave the song I'm proud to be an American real meaning! Wow this was over 20 years ago and I'm still active duty. Currently MAC Michael Jones 21 years active and going. BM3 Haymond, BM3 Malcolm Davis!!!! BME Askew!! BM2 Washington, BM2 Alvis, BM3 Henderson, BM3 Wright, were is my Battleship buddies!!!!!!!!!!!! my email is destoned2swirl@yahoo.com Comments from Dom; Thanks for your continues service Michael. I hope you hear from your past shipmates. Name:            Irving Zimmerma Email:            howspar@al.com Date:            05 May 2009 Comments As I was looking over the pictures for the umpteenth time, one looked pretty familiar. # 1102 from the 1950's section - the 3rd guy from the left looks a lot like Earl Decima - OI division. Comments from Dom: That photo was sent in by the wife of Vincent Piersante. Vince was in the 4th Division, so I believe they were in the 4th Div. Name:             Irving Zimmerman Email:             howspar@aol.com Date:            04 May 2009 Comments Two days until the anniversary of the infamous "collision"! Do you remember where you were when it happened? I was in CIC (radar) keeping my eye on the formation as we were sailing out of Norfolk. The screen was very hazy due to the heavy seas and fog. I felt the collision but did not realize what happened until our commander told us. What a day!!!! Comments from Dom: Irving, since it was a Sunday afternoon, I was laying in my rack up in the photo lab when we hit the Eaton. I didn't know what we hit but the way the ship moved, I knew it had to be something big. I told the other photographers, lets grab our cameras and out and see what we hit. As they say, the rest is history. Name:             David Email:             david-k@blueyonder.co.uk Date:            04 May 2009 Comments I read on Wikipedia that the Wisconsin and her sister ship Iowa are being kept in battle worthy condition. Is this true? I wish we in the UK had held on to a few of hours. Comments from Dom: Hi David, I don't know about the Iowa, but the Wisconsin looks like it would not take to long to get her ready if they need her. Name:              Andrea Oldfield/John DeSimone Email:            danan5@hvc.rr.com Date:            24 Apr 2009 Comments 2 years ago I went with my father, John DeSimone to see & board the Wisconsin. Growing up my father always told stories of his years on the Whiskey. He was in the navy in the early '50's. We went with my mother and my 3 children. My father was so proud to show us the ship. We had our own private tour with Dad as the tour director! My kids were amazed at the stories he told and the "lingo" he used! To top it off I bought an American Flag with me and we had it flown over the ship that day and returned to us. It was truly a priceless trip!! If anyone remembers my father, he would love to hear from you!!! Comments from Dom: Hi Andrea, glad you and your family enjoyed your visit to our ship. You had the perfect tour guide with you. OK guys, John was in "B" Division and made both tours to Korea. Andrea and John are waiting to hear from you.

Name:

            Tom Bradshaw
Email:
            bb64bt1retired@aol.com
Date:
           17 Apr 2009

Comments
To all those who look at our wonderful web site and post to the deck log, please feel free to join our Wisconsin Association Family by completing the application on the site. We are so proud of our BB-64 and all those who have served aboard her. We want to continue the Association even after the Last Battleship Sailor has sailed to meet Davy Jones. Remember we are the last of those who will ever sail aboard a United States Navy Battleship. Reunion in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin in September 2010, more info to follow.

Name:

KEN "DOC" COLEMAN

Email:

KRC6247@AOL.COM

Date:

29 Mar 2009

Comments

HAD A GREAT TIME TOURING HER.... WENT ABOARD THE BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY IN SUBIC BAY BACK IN 1969 SHE WAS ALSO BEAUTIFUL.. THANKS FOR THE GREAT TOUR IN MARCH 2009 HOPE TO COME BACK AGAIN... KEN DOC COLEMAN HOBART, IN

Comments from Dom; Hi Ken, thanks for your Deck Log entry. Glad you enjoyed your tour on the ship.