January 2010 by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates. Here is your monthly report for January 2010.

Yipes.......it's already February 2010. Where does the time go????

ALTAIR REUNION: If you have not received Nashville reunion information either via email or snail mail, please contact me cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

SHIPMATES: Please welcome aboard the following shipmates:

Darrell T. Chronister, SA, 1968, Jefferson City, MO

William L. Hickman, LTJG, 1963-1965, Rockville, MD

Gary K. Hysong, EM3, 1959-1961, Attica, IN

SHIPMATE PASSING: The following Shipmate Passed:

Frederick W. Meister, LTJG, 1963-1965, Passed 2000

FINANCIAL: The beginning cash balance was $1136.15 with dues income of $150.00 and expenses of $193.95 leaving a cash on hand balance of $1092.20. Expenses were envelopes, labels, stamps, printing and mailing of the reunion information to the non-email shipmates. The beginning saving account balance was $3822.71 with interest of $3.33 leaving a balance of $3826.04. Total cash balance is $4918.24.

Best Regards To All..........Charles

2010 Reunion Information

Here is the latest 2010 Altair Reunion information from our reunion chairman Joe Basso.

The Nashville reunion will be held at the Holiday Inn Select Opryland/Airport from Thursday, October 21st through Sunday, October 24th. Nashville, TN ~ October 21st – 24th, 2010

Travel & Leisure Magazine recently named Nashville America’s Friendliest City! Not only is Music City friendly, it has also been named the 4th Best American City for Holiday Travel. The USS Altair Reunion tours will give you a chance to experience some of the top attractions in Nashville. Tours include a group dinner at one of Nashville’s most unique restaurants and tickets to the famous Grand Ol Opry show. Saturday, don’t miss the city tour which will highlight some of Nashville’s most popular attractions. Your reunion program hits all of Nashville’s most famous attractions, while allowing plenty of time to relax and catch up with your friends.

Hotel Information:
The reunion dates are from Thursday, October 21st through Sunday, October 24th. You will be staying at the Holiday Inn Select Opryland/Airport which is located at 2200 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37214.

Reservation Information:
The room rate is just $99.00 plus tax per night based on single or double occupancy. Rate includes complimentary breakfast buffet daily. Please make your hotel reservations NOW by calling (615) 883-9770 between 9-4 pm EST and ask for in-house reservations. For those of you who would like to arrive early, the same room rate is available 2 days prior to the start of the reunion, and 2 days after the reunion. You may cancel up until 48 hours before arrival at no penalty. Be sure to ask for the USS Altair Reunion rate to assure you are associated with your group. You may request specific room types when you call to make your reservations (handicap accessible room, etc.). These are on a first come basis. The hotel check-in time is 3:00pm. Please, don’t expect to get into your room before then. They will ask you for a deposit or credit card number to guarantee your room reservation. The hotel is holding rooms until they sell out or September 10th, 2010, whichever comes first.

Transportation & Directions:
The closest airport is Nashville International (BNA). The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service from the Nashville International Airport. Upon arrival, use the courtesy phone located in the baggage claim. For those of you driving to the reunion, the hotel offers plenty of free parking. The hotel is conveniently located off Interstate 40, at the Broadway exit. Ask hotel for detailed directions when making your reservations.

Travel safely and we will ….
See you in Nashville!

Please call the hotel and make your reservations making sure you are getting the Altair special rate.

USS ALTAIR AKS 32 ~ 2010 REUNION EVENTS:

EVENT A: GROUP DINNER & GRAND OLE OPRY SHOW
Friday, October 22nd (4:00pm-10:00pm)
This spectacular evening begins at the Cock of the Walk Restaurant, where you will have a private area reserved just for the USS Altair. Known as one of Nashville’s most unique restaurants, you will dine on their famous golden fried catfish, and other southern specialties. The large barn-like restaurant is well known around Nashville for having the best seafood in town. The restaurant takes its unusual name from an old flatboat man’s term for the top boatman. Following dinner, board your coach for the short drive to the Grand Ole Opry Show. This is the show that made Nashville famous! The one, the only, the Opry. You never know which celebrities will turn up and perform, but one thing is for certain, it’s always a great show, with something for everyone. Music, dancing, and lots of laughs, make this variety show a Nashville tradition and a crowd favorite. You’ll have great seats, so come see what all the fuss is about!
Please note: You will be required to walk down 6 steps to your seat for the show. All Opry seats are benches with backs, similar to church pews.

EVENT B: BEST OF NASHVILLE CITY TOUR
Saturday, October 23rd (9:00am-2:00pm)
This is not your typical, routine city tour, but an entertaining look at all the sights that make up Nashville. Enjoy a driving tour of the landmarks of the city including Historic Downtown, Fort Nashborough, the State Capitol, the Parthenon and Music Row. The tour includes some of the homes and recording studios of celebrity stars of television and radio. You’ll also have time downtown to explore and have lunch on your own. Bring your camera and comfortable shoes. This will be a great day!

BANQUET DINNER:
Saturday, October 23rd (7:00pm at Hotel)
Join all of your friends for your Banquet Dinner at the Hotel. Dinner will be served at 7:00pm. Please make your entrée selection on the reservation form.

OPTIONAL TOUR CANCELLATION INSURANCE:
Protect yourself from unforeseen expenses caused by sickness, injury or any other causes that impact your travel plans. This insurance enables a refund of Tour & Banquet expenses up until three (3) days before the start of your reunion. If you need to cancel – please call our office immediately (817-251-3551) for a cancellation number. If you have not purchased cancellation insurance all tour and meal money is non-refundable 6 weeks prior to the reunion.

Important Reunion Notes:
~ Tours may be cancelled if a minimum of 30 people per bus is not met. In this case, full refunds will be given.
~ Please understand that a certain amount of walking is necessary from the bus to attractions and in some
instances, to also see the attractions. Please consider your abilities before purchasing tours.
~ Be sure to bring photo identification (like a driver’s license) on all events.
~ All tour times are subject to change. A final itinerary is available at registration

Tour reservations are contained in a PDF file that will be emailed or faxed to you by Dick Braun at dbraun at msbservices . com upon request

Another great auction will be held Saturday evening at the banquet; and, the valuable item you bring does not have to be Naval related item! (I hope a shipmate brings an original J-38 key!)

The Hospitality Room opens on Thursday. There will be a $25 charge PER PERSON for the cost of the hospitality room and all the "GOODIES."
Please send your check to:

Joseph Basso, 16 Edgemere Drive, Matawan, NJ 07747

or

John Thomas, 2632 Oak Leaf Circle, Helena, AL 35022

Joe Basso can be reached at jomapakg032 [at] verizon.net

Best Regards to All and See Ya in Nashville!

Charles

Sick List

Greetings Altair Crew. I received the following email from Dick Stader who wanted me to pass the info about the "Altair Sick List."

"Charles, just thought I would send you this information that I got yesterday on Dave Poland; his daughter called me yesterday to let me know that he (Dave) was having some chest pain on Tuesday, 5 Jan., and so she took him to the hospital to have him checked out; and he is there now with four heart blockages waiting to have bypass surgery next Wednesday 13 Jan. I talked to him last night and he says he is doing fine and feeling no more pain; but, because he takes Plavix, they need to wait a week before they can do surgery. His phone number is 757-388-8471 (repeating 757-388-8471) at the hospital in case any shipmate would like to give him a call; I am sure he would enjoy hearing from any of our shipmates.

Best Regards to you and Lillie.

Dick"

Best Regards To All..........Charles

December 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

FINANCES: The beginning December cash balance was $1136.15; the beginning December saving account balance was $3822.71. There was no income nor expenses leaving a total balance of $4958.86.

DUES: There were 83 dues paying shipmates in 2009. THANK YOU! Dues are $10 per year and due again for 2010 sent to me. Thank you again!

SHIPMATES: There are 462 Altair Shipmates!!!! Let's get more!!!

SHIPMATES PASSING: The following shipmates passed:

Perry Charles Hahn, EM3, 1963-1965; Passed November 20, 2009

Gerald (Jerry) Pelton, DP3, 1967-1968; Passed January 21, 2003

Allen D. Post, MMC, 1962-1964; Passed October 18, 2009

Our condolences to their families.

All for now. If you have any questions or comments, please reply to cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Let's all have a Blessed, Happy, Healthy and a prosperous 2010!

Best Regards To All...........Charles

November 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Crew.

ALTAIR BRANSON REUNION: Shipmates are still talking about the wonderful reunion in Branson, MO. Dick Stader and his crew did a superb job!

ALTAIR SHIPMATES: Please welcome aboard JJ Kennedy, SN, 1962-62, Bergenfield, NJ

ALTAIR SHIPMATE PASSING: Tom Planes informed me of the passing of Allen D. Post, MMC 1962-1964. Shipmate post passed Oct. 18 due to cancer. Our condolences to the Post family. The Post family can be reached at:

Allen D. Post Family
315 30th. Avenue West, Apt. B-303
Bradenton, FL 34205

FINANCES: The beginning cash balance was $1136.15 and the savings balance was $1820.99 for a total of $2957.14. There was no income from dues. The total income from the donations for the Hospitality Room and the Auction was $2965.00. Total Reunion expenses were $963.28. The income balance (receipts minus expenses) was $2001.72. This income balance was put into the savings account bringing the savings total to $3822.71. Coupled with the cash on hand, the total Altair monies total $4958.86. If any shipmate would like a detailed accounting of reunion expenses, please contact me at cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL THE SHIPMATES AND THEIR FAMILIES!

All for now. Please contact me with any questions or comments at cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Best Regards To All.........Charles

USS Altair Remembered by Tom Planes

She wasn’t much to look at but like most homely ladies she had a heart big as all out doors and a need to be loved. Even on her best days she could never compare in looks with a slick destroyer or a behemoth bird farm but oh my, she was a worker. She could keep up a steady 15 knots and churn along not missing a beat while the sixth fleet came along side to sample her wares. Like back street lovers with a brief kiss from high line to high line and a promise of more to come.

That crew in the early sixties she loved the most they took her from unfit for sea duty to proudly showing the red and white E’s for excellence. With paint, sweat and hours of work even though they cursed her at times their was love in the heart of all who served in her. The old girl showed her appreciation by never letting her boys down and always returning them to Barcelona where she could rest and they could play.

As she sat in the bone yard in Texas awaiting the searing torches that would tear her to pieces. Ripping her right down to her keel where she began. That steel back bone that stood true through thousands of miles of storms, cold and heat. From the battle for Okinawa to her life in the Atlantic and Med she had had a wonderful life and reflected on it.

She recalled the stormy passing through Cape Hatteras in early 60, bobbing around like a cork on a string under tow from a sea going tug. It was embarrassing not to be able to rely on her own turbines to make this trip to the Brooklyn yards. In the yards however she began to renew her strength. CWO Goodson was breathing a new life into her engine room changes in her evaporators meant she would never be with out fresh water. New nozzles in her turbines meant better underway speed control.

The deck apes (funny how she never thought of them as monkeys) they were always so dedicated to their work fighting rust and keeping her top side in ship shape. The electric wenches and all her rigging under their supervision were put in perfect working order. Her store keeps had a place for everything and everything in place mostly.

Then came the sea trial she was a little nervous with a new untried crew heading to Cuba with stops in Jamaica. Her first shakedown in the fifties was to Cuba also. Just before that she had been renamed the Altair. She wondered how many plank owners are still around and how many even remember her. They were a fine group of seamen. She was sure most of this crew would be career sailors.

The shakedown went well the men performed outstanding with their first replenishment drills. Soon she was back in Norfolk awaiting orders to deploy to the Med. When the word was passed to single up and she got underway she virtually trembled with excitement. She was not sure if it was a bad shaft bearing or the crew’s anticipation of liberty in Barcelona. The night before arriving in Spain she knew it was the crew. The entire crew had comedown with channel fever and was wide awake the vibration from all that energy was electric.

While her view of Barcelona was limited from her birth at the pier near Barceloneta she could still see the Ramblas a promenade lined with sycamore trees festooned with flower shops and kiosk where you could buy confections, news papers and perfume. The ever present cry at an Andalucian pitch of the lottery lady “ Para Hoy Equal” brought dreams of riches.

She could smell more of Barcelona than she could see. An off shore breeze sent a bouquet of fragrances that covered the bay like a warm blanket. The pine sent from the crest of Tibidabo mingled with the smell of flower, and the food being cooked along the Ramblas. The perfume worn by the ladies of the night was like the cherry on top of a sundae. She loved being in Barcelona it was a time to relax and repair between logreps.

There was a love affair with Spain that was so deep it lacked explanation. There was so much emotion that flowed within her hull. The heartbreak and anger brought on by a Dear John letter. The joy of announced birth over shadowed with the sadness of not being there. The collective glee of anticipation when the word is passed for liberty or mail call. The explosive anger with shouts and sometimes blows when a shipmate is caught stealing or a line was crossed that started as a joke but ended with fury and blood.

As much as she loved Barcelona she loved the open sea more. Supplying the sixth fleet was her job and her heart was quickened by it. To be out there steaming true in her little corner of the world, the Mediterranean. This is what she was built for and yearned to do. To hear the whine of the electric wenches and the shout of the deck crews as they send net after net of cargo to what ever Romeo ship came along side. The roar of the Sikorski and smell of spent aviation fuel at her flight deck. She recalled how skilled the pilots were off loading lading to other ships in the fleet. She was the first to try this form of resupply and met the challenge with open arms.

"Old Sailors" received from Jim Braydon author unknown

Old sailors sit and chew the fat 'bout how things use to be, of the things they've seen and places they've been, when they ventured out to sea.

They remember friends from long ago and the times they had back then, of the money they've spilled and the beer they've swilled in their days as sailing men.

Their lives are lived in days gone by with thoughts that forever last, of Dixie cups hats and bell bottom blues, and the good times in their past.

They recall long nights with a moon so bright far out on a lonely sea, and thoughts they had as youthful lads, when their lives were unbridled and free.

They know so well how their hearts would swell when the flag fluttered proud and free, and the stars and stripes made such beautiful sights as they plowed through an angry sea.

They talk of the bread Ole Cookie would bake and the shrill of the boson's pipe, and how the salt spray fell like sparks out of hell when a storm struck in the night.

They remember mates already gone who forever hold a spot in the stories of old when sailors were bold and lubbers a pitiful lot.

They rode their ships through many a storm when the sea was showing it's might, and the mighty waves might be digging their graves as they sailed on through the night.

They speak of nights in a bawdy house somewhere on a foreign shore, and the beer they'd downed as they gathered around cracking jokes with a busty whore.

Their sailing days are gone away, never more will they cross the brow, but they have no regrets for they know they've been blessed 'cause they honored their sacred vow.

Their numbers grow less with each passing day as their chits in this life are called, but they've nothing to lose for they've paid their dues and they'll sail with their shipmates again.

I've heard them say before getting underway that there is still some sailing to do, and they'll exclaim with a grin that their ship has come in, and the Lord is commanding the crew.

All Hands USS Altair AKS 32

From: 2009 Reunion Chairman
Subj: Veterans Day Message

I waited until today to send this out and Charles I hope I am not asking too much of you to forward it on for me today on this day set aside for all of us Veterans. I want to say thank you to all of you out there, both Shipmates and wives/girl friends and invited guest who came to Branson and celebrated another years reunion and harmony and unity, and to tell you that it was my great pleasure to serve as chairman for this years reunion, and to see each and every one of my old shipmates and wives and friends and to get to spend some time together with you, brought me a great amount of joy and I look forward eagerly to next years reunion in Nashville, where we can once again enjoy the camaraderie of old friends and shipmates. HAPPY VETERANS DAY TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU, and may you always have FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS. On another note I want to tell you that all that in the November Issue of the FRA magazine, there is a guy looking for crew members from the USS Marias, Aucilla and Altair who is working on a book about all of us stationed in or visited Barcelona from 1951 through 1987 and willing to share your recollections of life aboard ship, impressions of Barcelona, or related photos. If you are contact Xavier Theros at xavier.theros@gmail.com

I have not contacted him yet but I plan on it. Once again, Happy Veterans Day To All.

Dick Stader

October 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

BRANSON REUNION: Words escape me! Dick Stader did a fantastic job bringing together the reunion. It was a blast! Everything went well; the show was great, the food was good, the service was good and we all had a great time. There was not a dry eye during the Memorial Service. It was great to see all the shipmates. Dick Braun has photos taken at the reunion on the Altair Smugmug site, so please visit and enjoy. http://altair.smugmug.com

2010 REUNION: Joe Basso and the reunion committee have selected Nashville as the next Altair reunion site. More information will follow as available.

FINANCIAL: The beginning cash balance was $1026.15 with receipts of $110.00 and no expenses leaving a balance of $1136.15. The beginning savings balance was $1818.69 with income of $2.30 leaving a balance of $1820.99. The total cash balance is $2957.14.

SHIPMATES: Please welcome aboard the following new Altair shipmates:

R. Wayne Whittset, YN1, 1954-1955, Hampton, VA
Nicholas T. Viorel, CS2, 1954-1955, Los Angeles, CA
Lawrence A. Savino, SA, 1955, Mahopac, NY
David Jordan, DC3, 1953-1954, Chattanooga, TN
William N. Moynihan, ME3, 1955, Hinsdale, IL
Ronald C. Hewitt, YNSN, 1960-1961, Des Moines, IA
Everitt Sinks, EMFN, 1955-1956, Willow Springs, IL

There was one shipmate that served 6 months on the Altair, transferred off and wanted nothing more to do with the Altair!

SHIPMATES PASSING: The following Altair Shipmates passed:

Norman H. Wuestefeld, RM2, Clinton, CT; passed 2002
Francis O. Ridge, GM1, Staunton, VA; passed 2007; Pearl Harbor Survivor!

All for now. As usual, please do NOT reply to this email as it will be automatically deleted. Please us cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Best Regards To All..........Charles

Video of 1964 Med. tour and shore leaves.

ENS. Mark Simon provided us with videos that he took while aboard the Altair in 1964 - 1965. They can be found at http://altair.smugmug.com/Other/Mark-Simon-1964-1965/9783104_8bGUS#666798402_tpUjx. During his tour the Altair lost a Helo at sea and Mark was filming at the time. This scene is at the 4 Minute and 28 second mark of Part 4.

Mark was using a Super 8mm camera to film his travels. Then recently recorded the movie film onto VHS tape. He was kind enough to send me the tape and I converted it to DVD and to PC format. Split it down into 10 minute segments and then placed the segments on the photo album web site.

Thanks again Mark!

September 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

ALTAIR REUNION: Just a few weeks away!! Dick Stader reminds us that Branson is a casual place. I certainly intent to dress casual.

FINANCIAL: The beginning September cash balance was $1070.71 with paid dues of $60.00 and expenses of $104.56 leaving a cash on-hand balance of $1026.15. Expenses included paper, print ink and stamps. The savings account balance was $1818.69 leaving a total cash balance of $2844.84.

NEW SHIPMATES: Welcome aboard Robert A. Belaire, Claremont, NH, IC3 1963/64; Michael P. Buckey, ENFN, Grafton, OH 1963; Arlen W. Jones, LT (Helo Pilot), 1962, Virginia Beach, VA; and, William R. Birt, RM3, 1963-1965, Live Oak, FL.

SHIPMATES PASSING: We were notified of the following shipmates passing:

John B. Dudley, Captain, 1962; passed August 6, 2006
Donald Dufresne, SK3, 1957; passed September 25, 2009
Oliver F. Midgette, CDR XO, 1963-1965; passed June 11, 2002
Donald J. Cosby, LTJG, 1963-1965, Passed December, 1994

NAVY RATINGS: Ever wonder about some of those old navy ratings and what they referred to? Try http://www.history.navy.mil/faqs/faq78-3.htm

RELATIVES IN THE CIVIL WAR? If you think, or know you had relatives that participated in the Civil War, either for the North or the South, please visit http://ehistory.osu.edu/osu/sources/records/ and you will visit the entire 128 volume set of the "Official Records of the Civil War." There is an index that can be referenced.

All for now. See ya' at the reunion. Please do NOT reply to this email but use cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us for any questions of comments.

Best Regards To ALL..........Charles

August 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

As I was sitting in the den reading my latest copy of "SEAPOWER", published by the Navy League, I realized that I had forgotten to do the August monthly report.

We have had over 70 Altair shipmates pay dues this year!!!! Thanks!!

FINANCIAL: The starting balance was $1147.40 cash and $1818.69 in the savings account. We had income of $40 and expenses of $116.69 leaving a balance of $2889.40. Expenses were stamps and envelops to mail reunion information to the no-email shipmates.

That's all for now. If you need more info about the reunion please contact me at cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us or Dick Stader at Dickandterry5 [at] sbcglobal.net

Per my previous memos, Shipmate Bob Apple's computer was breached and some strange email sent to most all the shipmatesfor the past several months. Guard your computer!!! and, be careful forwarding mass addressed emails. Using the Bcc line will help avert stealing addresses. I can email more info about using the Blind Carbon Copy address line. Just let me know.

All for now. Please do not respond to this email but use my fastmail.us address with any comments or questions.

Best Regards To All.........Charles

July 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

ALTAIR SHIPMATES: Three new shipmates came on board in July. They are:

Jack E. Lewis, YN3, 1956-1957, Huntington, IN
Robert L. Knapp, SK2, 1961-1963, Taylor, MI
Michael J. Metro, SN, 1955-1957, East Hampton, CT

WELCOME ABOARD!!

SHIPMATE PASSING: Billy A. McDade, BT1, 1954-1955, 10 years ago.

ALTAIR FINANCES: The beginning July balance was $1147.40 in cash and $1816.43 in savings for a total of $2963.83. Income of $2.26 from the savings account and no expenses for a total of $1147.40 in cash and $1818.69 in savings for a total of $2966.09.

ALTAIR REUNION: If you need to contact the reunion chairman, Dick Stader, you can use dickandterry5 [at] sbcglobal.net or

Dick Stader, 1511 84th. St., Kenosha, WI 53143 262-654-9202

The reunion contact is Pam Brown 417-338-4048; she has requested deposits by August 23rd. for the reunion. Please contact her for more cost info.

Please remember that Dick has requested $25 per person ($50 per couple) help on the hospitality room. Please contact Dick for additional info. We really want it to be nice!

All for now. If you need more info please contact me at cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Best Wishes TO All...........Charles

Altair Reunion, Branson, MO

I talked to John Thompson a couple of weeks ago and he will be doing the auction again this year. John did a great job for us at the last reunion and raised a lot of money. Thanks John! Please bring any Altair mementos, relics, paper, etc. to the next reunion and we can add some needed dollars to the Altair Association bank account.

In my first letter about the reunion, I asked for a $25 "per person" donation to cover the hospitality room expenses for drinks and snacks, etc. Some of you sent me $25, and, thank you, but showing two people coming to the reunion. If a couple will be coming to the reunion, then $50 would cover both. We want this to be an extra nice hospitality room, so please help!

If you are trying to respond to Dick Stader, he can be reached at:

dickandterry5 [at] sbcglobal.net

Dick Stader
1511 84th. Street
Kenosha, WI 53143

Or, if you are trying to reach me: cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Best Regards To All..........Charles


Thanks......Dick Stader

Altair News

Greetings Altair Crew. Here is some timely news:

George Kirchner reports:

"The NASA Lunar Lander has been named ALTAIR! See below for the web site; Best Regards, George"
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/constellation/altair/altair.html

John McDaniel reports of receiving the Capt. Schumacher photographs:

"Charles-Enjoyed the photos that Captain Schumacher had taken. Brings back a lot of fond memories of our days on the Altair.

Not sure if you knew but at the onset of WWII Captain Schumacher (then an Ensign) was in command of PT Boat PT-32. This PT boat was in PT Boat Squadron 3 in Manila Bay in the Philippnes. (Same hull number as Altair)

Web site http://www.asiaticfleet.com/orbat.htm is the old Asiatic Fleet Order of Battle in which Ensign Schumacher is reflected as CO of PT-32.

Web site http://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/USN/CloseQuarters/PT-1.html is a narrative of some of the actions of the PT Boats at the beginning of WWII and reflects Captain Schumacher and PT-32's role in some of these.

VADM John D. Bulkeley, then a LT was in charge of this squadron. VADM Bulkeley had quite a career, he was the one who evacuated GEN MacArthur from Corregidor, was awarded the Medal of Honor, and was gentleman who cut the water supply lines in Gitmo, Cuba when Castro was acting up. The USS Buckeley DDG-84 was named in VADM Buckeley's honor. He was also the gentleman who recruited John F. Kennedy into the PT Boat community.

I retired from the Navy in 1982. I spent my last tour of duty with the Sub-Board of Inspection and Survey here in Norfolk. There was also another Sub-Board on the West Coast and the Admiral who was in charge was VADM Bulkeley. I was fortunate enough to meet and work with and travel with him on some inspections.

Would you please share this with the Altair Crew?

Thank you and best regards,

John O. McDaniel
Norfolk, VA"

June 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

HAPPY 4th OF JULY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!

It's hard to believe that it is already July. Here is E. TX the "dog days of August" arrived about 3 weeks ago. Very hot and no rain.

ALTAIR CAPS: Joe Basso has purchased a supply of Altair caps which may be purchased from him. Joe can be reached at 732-441-1077 or email jomapakg032 [at] verizon.net. Joe will also bring a supply of Altair caps to the reunion in October.

ALTAIR FINANCIAL: The beginning June balance was $1127.40 in cash and $1816.43 in the savings account for a total of $2943.83. Income in June was $20.00 with no expenses for a total $1147.40 in cash and $1816.43 in savings for a total of $2963.83.

ALTAIR SHIPMATES: New shipmates on board are Jack Land, SA, Wyoming, MI; Bruce Holton, YN3, Dunedin, FL; Clarence R. Keagle, SN, Neoga, IL; Pedro Rivera-Torres, SK3, Guaynabo, PR; and, Harold L. Guzdziol, IC3, Clinton Township, MI. I show a total of 451 active shipmates on my mailing list!!!!!!!!!

ALTAIR SHIPMATES PASSING: Received information that Theophile C. Haerinck, SN, 1955 passed away in August 1994; and, Marion L. Hendrick, SKC, 1954-1957 passed away July 4, 1999.

REUNION: If you need any more information about our next reunion, please contact me at cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Please DO NOT reply to this email as it will be automatically deleted.

I hope every one has a happy and safe 4th of July!

Best Regards To All...........Charles

Shipmate Passing

Dick Stader called me with news of a shipmate passing: Mark Sutton, SH2, 1957-1959 passed away Wednesday, July 8. I spent a lot of my hard earned money at the Altair ship's store for candy and cigarettes with Mark and remember him well. Our sincerest condolences to the Sutton family.

Mark Sutton Family
5580 Stonehaven Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23464-6825
757-479-2754

Charles

March 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

FINANCIAL: The beginning March balance was $2849.64 in ready cash and the savings account. Income was $10 and zero expenses leaving a balance of $2859.64.

SHIPMATES: Bruce Davis located the following new Altair shipmates:

William A. Erickson, Miramar Beach, FL; LTJG, 1961-1963
Colin E. Shultz, Lancaster, PA; SK3, 1964-1966
Harry O. Bacon, Ellabell, GA; DK2, 1955
Raymond B. Allen, Camden, NC; SK1, 1953-1955
Julio Possenti, Port Orange, FL; SN,
Thomas G. Lakies, Traverse City, MI; SN, 1960-1961
Eugene S. Gigee, Westfield, PA; SN, 1960-1962
Paul N. Buchman, Queensburg, NY; ENS, 1953-1954
Robert J. Wolansky, North Arlington, NJ; SN 1953-1955

SHIPMATES PASSING: Ronald F. Spina, SKSN and Edward L. Kantner, SN.


Please reply to cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Best Regards To All......Charles

Shipmates Family Requesting Photos

Daniel Nocivelli served on the Altair 1955-1956 as a SKG1. He passed away in 2002. His granddaughter Helen would like any information or copies of any pictures that any shipmate might have about her grandfather.

You can email her at machic13 at comcast dot net or send her snail mail at:

Helen Nocivelli 66 Verne Street, Brockton, MA 02301

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Best Regards To All..........Charles

February 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates;

First of all, KUDOS to Martin Summann for the great looking Altair web site! KUDOS to Dick Braun for the Altair Blog site, http://aks32.blogspot.com/ Great job!

SHIPMATE PASSING: Bruce Davis reports the following Shipmates passing:

Thomas J. Cuddahy, MM3, 1953
Arnold Brooks, SN, 1953
Clarence Dean Bruce, SN, 1953
William A. Cundy, CS2

NEW ALTAIR SHIPMATES: Bruce Davis is doing a wonderful job of tracking down Altair shipmates! High KUDOS to Bruce. Following is a list of 1953 Commissioning Crew shipmates that Bruce tracked down:

Anthony Riniti, SN, LaVerne, CA
Richard H. Salinger, MM1, Reading, PA
Edward M. Beakey, SN, Dallas, TX
Mrs. Roseann Cundy (Widow of William A. Cundy)
John Czarnecki, CS3, Harrison, MI
Franklin N. Frederick, GM3, Hanover, PA
Lloyd D. Green, SN, Galax, VA
Donald A. Hastings, HM3, Jefferson, ME
John E. Hawkins, SN, Aberdeen, MS
William T. Hurd, SN, Seal Beach, CA
Glover B. Jones, BTG3, Arlington, TX
Gerard Lavoie, SN, Nashua, NH
Lowell T. McDaniel, EM3, Easely, SC
Charles A. McIver, EMFN, Cathedral City, CA
Ambrose G. O'Neill, FA, Randallstown, PA
Stanley Stancavage, Greenfield Township, PA
Miguel Valencia, SK1, Alexandria, VA

ALTAIR CREW: I show 434 crew members on my lists, but only 431 with good addresses; and from 45 different states! SO FAR A TOTAL OF 61 SHIPMATES HAVE PAID THEIR $10 YEARLY DUES!! Many thanks!!!

FINANCIAL: The beginning on hand cash balance was $1105.59 with income of $150.00 and expenses of $220.19 leaving a ballance of $1035.40. Expenses were yearly web site payment, stamps, copies, etc.
The beginning savings balance was $1813.00 and a short month income of $1.24 giving a balance of $1814.24. The total cash balance was $2849.64.

As usual, please DO NOT reply to this email. Use cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us

REUNION: IF YOU NEED ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT OUR NEXT REUNION IN BRANSON, MO, PLEASE CONTACT EITHER MYSELF OR THE REUNION CHAIRMAN DICK STADER AT dickandterry5@sbcglobal.net

Best Wishes To All.........Charles

Reunion and Altair Caps

Greetings Altair Shipmates.

Is there any shipmate that has not received the previously attached information about our next reunion in Branson, MO? Information was sent as a Word attachment and a PDF attachment. If you need a printed copy, please contact me at cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us and I will get you a copy in the mail. I have mailed out about 140 snail mail copies to the shipmates that do not have email or have requested a printed copy.

Joe Basso called me about getting the shipmates on board with Altair caps. I bought one about 7-8 years ago from a company in FL for about $40!! Yes, I said $40 as he had never done an AKS before. Anyway, Joe has contacted a couple of cap manufacturers and can get them done a heckuva cheaper than that! What would you like on the caps? My cap has "USS ALTAIR" in gold as the top line; then is an outline of a store ship in gray; the bottom line reads "AKS-32" in gold. It is quite striking, but that is also 3 lines of embroidery. Joe wants your input as to what you like on the caps. You can contact Joe at
732-441-1077 on the phone or at jomapakg032@verizon.net via email.
We could also take a little supply to the reunion.

Best Regards To All..........Charles

Reunion 2009--More Info

Greetings Altair Shipmates. Here is a bit of reunion info. There will be much more to follow in the next few days.

Branson Reunion Information Site (click here)

Dick Stader's FL phone number is 239-985-9608 and not the number listed.

Branson Reunion Registration Form (click here)

This is a web site put up by the reunion group in Branson, MO

Dick Stader's email address is dickandterry5@sbcglobal.net

As usual, please do not reply to this email. Use cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us

My email address on this site has been compromised (stolen) and I am getting emails from myself to myself that I did not originate. I am considering changing addresses on this site. I could blacklist myself, but then would not have an email copy of what I sent from this site. Oh well.............

More reunion info to follow in a few days..........

Best Regards To All..........Charles

January 2009 by Charles Brecheisen

We are having a mild winter here in East Texas with no snow and only a bit of sleet. But, February is always our worst month for weather.

ALTAIR SHIPMATES PASSING: I received information about two Altair Shipmates passing; Walter Grau, CWO1 1953-1954; and Theodore A. Vietje, FPG3 1953-1954.

NEW ALTAIR SHIPMATES: The following Altair Shipmates came aboard in January:

Robert G. Lough, SK3, 1953-1956; resides in Clarksburg, WV
John E. Keyes, MM3, 1953-1954; resides in Cleves, OH
Cecil G. Haight, EM3, 1953-1954; resides in San Jose, CA
Hoyt F. Richardson, SN, 1953-1955; resides in Ulrichsville, OH
L. Ray Marchant, SK2, 1960-1961; resides in Savannah, GA
Lewis E. Ryan, RMC, 1953-1954; 89 years young and resides in Sturgis, MS

WELCOME ABOARD AND THANKS FOR ALL THE HELP FINDING THESE SHIPMATES!

FINANCIAL: WOW!!! We have 54 dues paying shipmates!! This is a world record! There was 30 that paid in December and their dollars are reflected in the December totals. There were 24 shipmates paying dues in January. The starting cash balance was $910.00 with cash receipts of $320.00 and expenses of $124.41 leaving a cast balance of $1105.59. The saving account balance is $1813.00 leaving a total balance of $2918.59. Expenses were mainly postage, PDF software and printing.

ALTAIR REUNION: More reunion information will be forthcoming very soon. I know we are all looking forward to the October reunion in Branson, Missouri!

All for now. Please do not reply to this email!! If you wish to contact me, plus use cmbaltairaks32 @ fastmail . us

Best Regards To All.........Charles

Changes to Newsletter Distribution

Greetings Altair Shipmates.

First of all, let me thank more than 40 (to date) dues paying shipmates that support the entire crew with their yearly dues. Some have sent in dues for several years too. Thanks!

My shipmate list has 414 crew members of which 305 have email and 102 have no email. I show a few shipmates with bad email/or addresses. When I do a full mailing of the double side (8 pages) Altair Newsletter, the approx. total cost is over $500 which includes printing, envelopes, stamps, labels, ind, etc. Of course less pages, less printing cost. Plus, there are 2500 physical operations to fold (the printer does the stapling), insert, attach 2 mailing labels, stamp and seal which Lillie and I do. The total cost per mailing the newsletter is approx. $1.25 each to cover over 400 shipmates. I am proposing to email the newsletter as a PDF attachment to the 305 shipmates that have email. A PDF reader is a FREE download from Adobe, and others. I receive quite a few emails with a PDF attachments which I download to my desktop (so I can find them) and just double click on it and the Adobe reader opens the file. IT WORKS GREAT! The other 102 shipmates with no email will get the newsletter via snail mail. This will save at least $300 plus! I can purchase "docudesk", or another PDF conversion software for under #30. I have tested this method with several shipmates and it works fine! You just need a PDF reader.

The chairman of our 2009 reunion in Branson, MO is Dick Stader. Information has already been sent via email and snail mail to all the shipmates about the reunion There will be additional information to be sent, forms to be filled out and returned to Dick; and, I will be sending this information as a PDF file attachment to your email. A mailing of only 2 sheets of paper to cover all the shipmates would cost approx. $.64 each totaling $250. Doing this will allow me to mail only 102 copies to shipmates with email and save dollars.

PDF IS ON THE WAY! And, it is the way to go!

If you do not want to receive email with attachments please let me know and the info will be snail mailed.

Comments are welcome and please reply to cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.

Best Regards To All..........Charles

2009 Reunion Information

Greetings Altair Shipmates.

Our reunion Chairman Dick Stader has announced that our next USS Altair reunion will be in Branson, Missouri, starting Friday, October 23, 2009 through Sunday, October 25, 2009 and departing Monday October 26, 2009. If there is enough shipmate interest, the reunion could start on Thursday, October 22, 2009.

PLEASE CONTACT DICK STADER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE REUNION!!

Dick needs to plan for hotels, shows, etc.

Dick can be reached at dickandterry5 @ sbcglobal.net (you will have type in the email address to prevent spamming)

Or use the following address:

Dick Stader
1511 84th. Street
Kenosha, WI 53143
262-654-9202

Please do not respond to this email; but contact Dick.

Best Regards To All.........Charles ( cmbaltairaks32 @ fastmail.us )

December 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Let's all have a happy, prosperous and a very healthy 2009.

NEW SHIPMATE: Please welcome aboard Allen Lambert, SN, 1960-1962.
Allen resides in Ft. Worth, Texas. WELCOME ABOARD Allen!

FINANCIAL: Beginning cash balance was $507.62 with income from dues of $400.00 and an adjustment of $2.38 leaving a cash balance of $910.00. The amount in the Altair savings account is $1813.00 leaving a total balance of $2723.00.

REUNION: We are waiting for the reunion chairman and crew to report the selection.

Thanks to the 30 plus shipmates that paid 2009 dues in December!!

All for now. Please contact me at cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us with any comments or questions. Please do not reply to this email.

Best Regards To All.........Charles

Commander George J. Largess (Ret) passed away

Dear Webmasters of the USS Altair Website,

I hope this is the best way to pass along this information. My father, Commander George J. Largess USN (Ret), who commanded the Altair after her commissioning in Baltimore in 52, passed away on December 11 2008 after a short illness. He'd been doing great at the age of 91 but his kidneys began to fail and he declined quickly. He was very proud of his role in the Altair's history and frequently talked about her.

I'd love to hear from anyone who served with him who has any memories to share. And he'll be buried at Arlington on Wednesday, 28 January, at 0900 with full military honors-- all are most welcome to come, we'd love to have some of his shipmates there.

If anyone would like to reach me for more information I'm at _Largitas@aol.com_ (mailto:Largitas@aol.com) and again, would love to touch base with anyone from the ship. Thank you,

Bill Largess

SAVE THE LAFFEY FUND

Greetings Altair Crew. Are there any objections to the Altair Association making a donation to keep the USS Laffey afloat? The SS Aberdeen Victory (USS Altair) sailed with the USS Laffey in 1945 and participated with the Laffey at the Battle of Okinawa. I wish we had the Altair afloat!

Best Regards To All..........Charles


---
Charles M. Brecheisen
cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us

Charles, I rec'd the following from an old friend I worked with many years ago.He served aboard the USS Laffey and is a member of the ships association.It looks like the USS Laffey is taking on water and eventually will require major repairs to her bottom.I'm requesting that you put this out to our crew for a couple of reasons.Some may have served on her or known others who did.Some may find it possible to make a small donation to her cause.I visited the Memorial in Mt. Pleasant S.C. where she is berthed a few years ago and it would be a wonderful gesture if our Association was in the position to make a donation as well.I plan to make a personal donation too.Thanks for passing the word...........Mike Troiano


--- On Sun, 12/14/08, soncher724@comcast.net
wrote:

From: soncher724@comcast.net

Subject: Laffey update

To: "wagemann, kurt" , "Lippi, Claire"
, golfer969@msn.com, jim.ford@earthlink.net, GrahamR@hpw.com, rrhovet@yahoo.com, djdd724@verizon.net, NAVYBLUE678@aol.com, WaltnMarj724@wmconnect.com, melsart@wyoming.com, janelg@ccwebster.net, Nosno01@aol.com, chris@chrisepting.com, jfpatiorms@aol.com, efitz3@ptdprolog.net, efitzjr@comcast.net, jcabhall@comcast.net, swhudson3@yahoo.com, ebhill724@yahoo.com, folino724@yahoo.com, billcherfitz@comcast.net, vhale134@comcast.net, sylmarjim@comcast.net, scout1947@comcast.net, nforney@infoave.net, stevesue4@juno.com, pcriblet@usfamily.net, dd724laffey@windstream.net, billiebob.fitz@verizon.net, TomHoobyar@aol.com, pastorsteve@epix.net
Date: Sunday, December 14, 2008, 3:04 PM




Good afternoon all:
We have returned from a very emotional and upsetting visit of our ship, the USS LAFFEY.
I received a phone call on Thursday from General Hugh Tant telling me that there were new leaks and he said that I should be there to see what was going on. I contacted John Hudak (our Engineering Officer) and Don Watson Our First Lieutenant), to tell them that I was going to the ship. They told me that they must go also. John drove from Vestaburg, PA to my house in MD and we drove straight to the ship Thursday night. Don and Joe Luque left from Florida at midnight on Thursday and met us in Mt. Pleasant on Friday morning.

We were met by Charlie Hall, the PR manager of Patriots Point and he took us to his office to watch a video that was shot by the divers. It showed the water pouring into the ship through 3 holes within a 4 square foot area near the keel on the port side forward. I cannot discribe the mood in that office as we watched the video.

Along with John Hudak, Don Watson and Joe Luque, we rode down the pier and saw the tanker trucks, the booms in the water around the ship and the divers' boat alongside and the pumps running. It was very disturbing to see our lady in such distress.

We met Malcolm Jenkins on the pier and we went aboard the ship. Paul Jeffords met us and took us below into the forward fire room where the leaks were. There we met with Richard Dunn, the superintendant of maintenance. They showed us the bilges and the condition of the bottom. The water was about 6 inches deep under no.2 boiler. There was a diver underneath the ship putting on a soft patch. He was warned by the master diver to stay away from trying to clean the marine growth too close to the holes. He was afraid that the whole section would let go and suck the diver right up into the ship.

The picture that we paint here is not a pretty one BUT, I have to tell you that the personnel of Patriots Point have not given up on her. They are working around the clock keeping an eye on the ship and manning the pumps when needed.

The situation is this, the bottom is very fragile and needs to be patched in order to move her to the yards to put her in dry dock. This will require a lot of money and care. We have donated $10,000. from the association emergency fund. I have been informed of many members that have sent donations, Tin Can Sailors have put a notice on their website and will be putting a notice in the next newsletter. Many other ships' associations have informed me of their donations also.

We will need a lot more to get this done. Patriots Point has been in touch with the governor of South Carolina, many senators and also the Federal Government to try to get more funds.
I have also received a phone call from James Smith, grandson of Capt. Paul Smith who was the gunnery officer during the battle at Okinawa. James told me that he is trying to put some donors together to get the ship fixed. He said to me that we CANNOT LET HER GO!!!!!!! We are going to try to make this happen. This will probably be the hardest battle she has fought in her 62 years.

"THE SHIP THAT WOULD NOT DIE" hasn't died yet. When I asked for $5.00 per member, that was for the 30,000 members of TCS!!!! We need more from us if we can. Don't send me my usual $100 Christmas present, donate it to the 'SAVE THE LAFFEY FUND". I'll just have to do without all of the presents you all send to your tired president. Seriously, please try to keep a positive attitude about saving our girl. If the folks from Patrots Point haven't given up, we certainly can't. I'll keep you advised as to the donations and the progress of the save the ship project.

The problem is funding!!!! It is going to cost a lot of money, about 3 million bucks to get her to the yards and repaired.

Make checks payable to:

Patriots Point Development Authority
40 Patriots Point Road
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465
Attn: CFO

Mark your check "FOR SAVE THE LAFFEY FUND"

Thanks so much,
Sonny Walker
President

From: michael.troiano@att.net

To: "Charles M. Brecheisen"

Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:38:20 +0000

Subject: Fw: Laffey update

Hi Charles,

Here is a better synopsis of the situation involving the USS Laffey.This was buried in one of my folders.You may want to forward this to our crew as well.The Laffey Association members meet at the ship through out the year for work parties and have done one heck of a job getting her ship shape.This new problem may exceeded their ability to fund which would really be a shame given the history behind the ship and the effort of her crew over the years.................Mike

-------------- Forwarded Message: --------------

From: Robert Hill

To: Carl Akin

Subject: Fw: Laffey update

Date: Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:31:08 +0000

--- On Fri, 12/12/08, soncher724@comcast.net <soncher724@comcast.net>

wrote:

From: soncher724@comcast.net

Subject: Laffey update

To: "wagemann, kurt" , "Lippi, Claire"

, golfer969@msn.com, jim.ford@earthlink.net, GrahamR@hpw.com, rrhovet@yahoo.com, djdd724@verizon.net, NAVYBLUE678@aol.com, WaltnMarj724@wmconnect.com, melsart@wyoming.com, janelg@ccwebster.net, Nosno01@aol.com, chris@chrisepting.com, jfpatiorms@aol.com, efitz3@ptdprolog.net, efitzjr@comcast.net, jcabhall@comcast.net, swhudson3@yahoo.com, ebhill724@yahoo.com, folino724@yahoo.com, billcherfitz@comcast.net, vhale134@comcast.net, sylmarjim@comcast.net, scout1947@comcast.net, nforney@infoave.net, stevesue4@juno.com, pcriblet@usfamily.net, dd724laffey@windstream.net, billiebob.fitz@verizon.net, TomHoobyar@aol.com, pastorsteve@epix.net

Date: Friday, December 12, 2008, 2:43 PM

Press Release

USS Laffey Needs Immediate Repairs

Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina – Dec 12, 2008

In the early hours of Monday morning, December 1st, staff personnel at Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum noticed the last remaining Sumner class destroyer in existence, the USS Laffey, sitting lower than usual in the water.

When staff personnel arrived, they discovered five feet of water in the lower section of the ship. As emergency procedures began and pumping commenced, water was entering the ship at a rate of 2,000 gallons per hour. After over 90,000 gallons of sea water were pumped from the ship, the location of the leak was determined late Wednesday evening.

Environmental personnel were called to oversee the operations to ensure that all procedures were being conducted in a safe and efficient manner. There were no hazardous materials released into the outside water.

Survey teams and divers were on the scene Thursday morning to attempt temporary repairs and assess the extent of the hull’s deterioration. By late afternoon Thursday, the leak was stopped with an epoxy patch, thereby allowing a marine survey to be conducted.

Three weeks ago, five holes were discovered in the aft section of the ship and 4,600 gallons of seawater were pumped out before repairs could be made. The breach in the ship’s hull discovered December 1 is unrelated to the earlier discovered holes.

The USS Laffey was last in dry dock 14 years ago when she underwent repairs. At that time, extensive repairs were made to the hull by welding metal plates over the deteriorated areas. The leak discovered December 1 is located along a weld that began rusting, causing a crack approximately 12 inches by one fourth of an inch.

As of Thursday morning, December 11, the epoxy patch was holding and all water had been removed from the ship. Unfortunately, during the day Thursday, staff personnel at the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum discovered the USS Laffey was again taking on water through three holes that developed since the December 1 leaks were repaired. Patriots Point’s pumps and a private contractor’s pumps have been removing water from the Laffey. Divers started patching the holes Thursday afternoon to stabilize the leaks. This morning, the divers are continuing to work on the patches. A boom has been deployed around the ship to prevent any possible contamination. The US Coast Guard representatives have been on site to assist Patriots Point.

The December 11 holes are not connected with the holes discovered three weeks ago or those discovered on December 1, but they highlight Patriots Point Development Authority’s challenges with the cost and the need for constant maintenance of its aging fleet of four naval museum vessels. An early estimate of the cost to tow the USS Laffey to a repair facility and repair her is $3.5 million. Patriots Point is weighing its alternatives to deal with the Laffey given her deteriorated hull condition. In addition to this early estimate of $3.5 million needed for the Laffey, the aircraft carrier Yorktown, submarine Clamagore and Coast Guard Cutter Ingham collectively need approximately $50 million of maintenance and repairs. This need is not unique to Patriots Point's fleet. The aircraft carrier museum ship Intrepid moored in New York recently received over $120 million of repairs and maintenance.

For more information on the USS Laffey (DD-724) and her historic background please go to our website at www.patriotspoint.org and access “Ships & Museums – USS Laffey”.

----- End forwarded message -----

I don't know, Charles. I went aboard the Laffey when I was in Charleston following our reunion. She was a pretty sorry ship.. I am not sure she is worth saving. In contrast, the USS Yorktown, also moored at Patriot's Point, was well preserved and offered a decent tour. Neither were as good as the battleship USS North Carolina, which I saw in Wilmington NC before the reunion.

We have an old lightship here in Lewes DE that is being restored. The dedicated volunteers are facing the same hull deterioration issues, in addition to of all the other repair problems. It has taken two years just to get the thing to dry-dock, and I really don't know what they are going to do after the hull is repaired. There remains a significant amount of work to be done to the rest of the ship. I doubt that it will ever be much of a tourist attraction, so it may just be an ongoing maintenance project.

Sometimes I think these old ships are maintained just for the people who are interested in working on them. Once they pass away, nobody else cares. Look at all the monuments that were built following the civil War, WWI and WWII - they seem to just fade away until someone decides they should be restored, and afterward they fade away again.

The Laffey is not a bad project, but it may just be a black hole that sucks up money.

Perhaps a better cause could be found, one that builds for the future, like adopting a sea scout troop or donating to a scholarship fund for a child of a fallen sailor from Iraq or Afghanistan.

Just my thoughts, for whatever they are worth.

George O'Brien

November 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Crew.

Are you still stuffed as I am with turkey? We had a big dinner Thursday and also with the kids on Saturday. I hope every shipmate had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

ALTAIR REUNION: I am still getting email about the reunion in October and how wonderful it was. Tom etal did such a wonderful job!

ALTAIR SHIPMATES: WOW! Three new Altair shipmates in November. Glennie J. Gilleen, MM2, 1962-64 now living in Andover, MN; Thomas Myers, CS3, 1955-57 living in Schenectady, NY; and, Joseph Ziegler, ET3, 1965-66 living in New Baltimore, NY. WELCOME ABOARD!

ALTAIR NEWSLETTER: My sincerest apologies for not getting the Newsletter out before the last reunion. Just too many health problems around here to concentrate. I promise to do a better job in 2009.

FINANCIAL: The reunion generated $1813.00 which was forwarded to me and I opened a savings account with the money. Tom Planes is also on this account in case something happens to me. I began the month with $551.30 in cash, no income and expenses (stamps and mailing) of $43.68 leaving a cash on hand balance of $507.62. The total Altair monies including the savings account totals $2320.62.

DUES: Just a reminder that dues are $10 per year and due in January. Dues are how we keep this Altair site, etc. running. The address to send the $10 dues is:

Charles M. Brecheisen
248 Drifting Cloud
Holly Lake Ranch, TX 75765-6321

All for now. Please contact me with any comments or questions at cmbaltairaks32 at fastmail.us

Best Regards To All........Charles

Thanks Comrades!

There is a bond formed by men who are committed to a cause be it athletics, fraternal order or military. This bond or friendship lifts us up and separates us from the natural man. It sustains us through good and bad times remembering the trials, hardwork, libertys, tears and laughter. For this friendship I give thanks on this Thanksgiving day and pray that all my Altair shipmates have a wonderful day shared with family and friends.

Tom (Alvarez) Planes, Altair 60-63

2008 Reunion Recap

Myrtle Beach, SC ─ The 2008 Altair reunion is now history. Occurring October 24th through October 26th, it opened with a gathering and story swapping in a meeting room just off the lobby in the Marriott Courtyard. By 4:00 the room was packed. I later discovered that several of our shipmates were not able to attend due to the economy and health issues. A slide show featured 454 pictures thus far submitted to the Altair photo site http://altair.smugmug.com

We then went to the Alabama Theatre to be entertained by the musical “ONE – The Show”. Voted #1 by Myrtle Beach Visitors, this was the last performance of the 8th year. The talented cast and crew of over 40 had spent hundreds of hours reinventing the show with fabulous new songs, dance & comedy. ONE -The Show featured the charm of emcee and featured vocalist Greg Rowles, and one-of-the-funniest guys in the country, Grant Turner's Ricky Mokel. It was an evening filled with song, dance, and laughter. ONE -The Show featured an all-new production with over 25 new chart-topping songs, and an incredible Beatles Pop segment, playing six nights a week. Everyone was wowed by a stunning presentation from the Broadway's Disney musical, Mary Poppins. Visual surprises abounded in this show-stopping medley from one of the most charming musicals ever written. There were two military groups present and both were honored. The Altair group was introduced during the general announcements segment, along with birthdays and anniversaries being celebrated. Then at the shows conclusion, which was a fantastic musical, visual presentation and patriotic celebration, our group was honored with a reading of the history of our ship and the crew! After the show, I was personally thanked for my service to the United States by the person seated behind me. WOW, that doesn’t happen very often! During the show it started to rain so hard that you could hear it pounding on the building’s roof. The rain continued until late that night, so most of us got somewhat damp in the mad dash to the car.

Saturday included an auction that was led by master auctioneer John “Tom” Thomas to a packed meeting room. Tom did a magnificent job of keeping everybody’s attention and entertained. There were two long tables overflowing with donated items. A special thanks for all who donated to the auction! Well, as Tom auctioned off each item, you could tell that we, as a group, were not very sophisticated in the ways of an auction -- the head scratch, nod at a person next to you, a shrug of the shoulders -- all to Tom’s eagle eye was a bid; however, he was kind enough to stop the action and ask if the intention was to bid or just a casual twitch, and did it in a way to amuse everyone. When all was said and done, the auction raised about $1,300 that will be sent to Charles Brecheisen to be added to the general fund to offset the cost of the general expenses of running the organization. Thanks to all the buyers and bidders who made it so much fun.

The Auction was followed by free time, that most of the folks spent in the meeting room, chatting and swapping sea stories. Saturday evening was a trip across the parking lot to California Dreaming for dinner. After the dinner Tom Planes held the drawing for the Altair Memorial Plaque that was being raffled off. This plaque is a duplicate of the one that was dedicated on October 23rd at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington DC. Check it out at http://altair.smugmug.com. After much fanfare, the drawing of a single name was complete. Congratulations to the winner, John “Tom” Thomas! After dinner many of the folks went back to the meeting room and continued swapping those sea stories.

On Sunday morning, there was a general meeting to name the coordinator of the next reunion. Dick Stader was nominated, 2nd-ed, and carried by unanimous voice vote, with no discussion, as Chairman of the 2009 Reunion Committee. We also selected the same week in October of 2009 and Baltimore was the first choice, with Branson as the second choice. So Please, Please, Please, set aside the time frame of the last two weeks of October to allow for scheduling purposes, and start saving now so you will be able to attend. More information will follow just as soon as it becomes available. After the meeting, some of the folks had planes to catch and left, we stayed and did some shopping and sea story telling.

Be sure to check out the 2008 reunion pictures at the ALTAIR photo web site http://altair.smugmug.com.

Also, check out the photos from C. O. Lee. He gave me a bunch of snapshots to scan so they are now on the photo site as well.

As for our host, TOM PLANES, what a wonderful job in setting up and conducting the reunion!!! He even enlisted his son-in-law Ryan Moore, MM1 USN (not affiliated with the ALTAIR) who came in from Atlanta to assist him with the event. My THANKS to both of these gentlemen; they did a magnificent job!

My wife, Susie, accompanied me on the trip and here are some of her thoughts: This was my first reunion, and, God willing, it won’t be my last. I was so impressed by the friendliness of everyone in the group. I was worried about fitting in, but right from the beginning, I felt a air about the group that made me feel welcome and very much a part of the group. The whole experience made me “proud to be an American” and a part of this fantastic group of people.

The camaraderie of this group, from a first-time attendee’s prospective, was well worth the cost and time. No one was left out of any of the discussions that they chose to be a part of. This includes the partners of the shipmates. I feel so privileged to be a part of the group. I am so looking forward to the next gathering and hoping that we can convince as many of our shipmates to attend as possible.


Dick Braun
"I will answer the wind
I will leave with the tide
I'll be out on the road
Every chance I can ride"
Bob Seger -- Wait for me

October 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

ALTAIR PLAQUE: The ceremony was attended by several shipmates including Admiral Colbert's widow, Mrs. Prudence Mackee. Thanks to all that donated for this wonderful ship remembrance and ceremony!

NAVY LOG: Joe Basso notes that on the Navy Memorial site
http://www.navymemorial.org/ there is a section named "Navy Log." Click on the "Navy Log" button at the top of the Memorial site and it will take you to the Log site. You can sign up, create you own profile, upload your picture, etc. It's free too! Check it out!

ALTAIR REUNION: What a wonderful reunion..........Tom Planes deserves the highest kudos for a job very well done! All the reports that I have heard have been glowing and everyone had a great time. Dick Braun's "2008 Reunion recap" was emailed some time ago. A reunion committee was formed and there will be a reunion next year 2009 about the same time. More info to follow as it becomes available. Great job Tom!

FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $584.30 with no income and expenses of $33.00 for overnight check mailing leaving a balance of $551.30. Tom Planes reports that a check (dues/auction/donations) from the reunion will be on the way to me to cover future expenses.

SHIPMATE PASSING: I am sorry to report the passing of Shipmate Ernest David Forbes Jr. on October 24, 2008. Ernie was a FN aboard the Altair 1961-63. Our sincerest condolences to the Forbes family. The family can be reached at:

828 Jamaica Blvd., Toms River, NJ 08757 732-349-7737

ALTAIR NEWSLETTER: I will be making some changes now that the plaque ceremony and reunion are over. My sincerest regrets to all the shipmates for my not being able to attend either event. Hopefully........next year.

All for now. Please contact me with any comments or questions. If I missed anything, please let me know!

Best Regards To All..........Charles

In a seperate email Charles sent this:

"I just knew that I was forgetting something very important.......and, I did.

Dick Braun has put up tons of great pics from the plaque ceremony and the reunion (plus tons of other great Altair pics) on our photo site. Spread the word about this site!

Please visit http://altair.smugmug.com and enjoy the photos!

Dick, thank you for a great job! High kudos to you!"

September 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $700.93 with no income and expenses of $116.63 leaving a balance of $584.30. Expenses were a down payment for reservations at the Alabama Theater for the Altair Reunion.

REUNION: The official 2nd. USS Altair reunion October 24,25 and 26, 2008 at the Courtyard by Marriott, Myrtle Beach, SC. Let me or Tom Planes know if you need any additional information.

ALTAIR PLAQUE CEREMONY: The Altair Plaque Ceremony will take place promptly at noon, Thursday, October 23, 2008 at the United States Navy Memorial Foundation, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Lillie and I really lucked out when hurricane Ike came through a few weeks ago. Even though the eye of the storm passed right over us, we were on the west side of the eye and did not suffer any wind or rain damage. In fact, we only got a couple of inches of rain. The damage was a lot worse just 30-40 miles to the east of us.

Any questions or comments contact me at cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us

Best Regards To All........Charles

Altair Reunion Update by Tom Planes

The newly refurbished Marriott at Barefoot Landing has extended a very good rate ($69.00) per night) to the Altair Group. This applies to the reunion dates of Friday, October 24, 2008 to Monday, October 27, 2008 (three days). Including taxes the total for the entire hotel stay is $229.77 which includes a full breakfast and use of the hospitality room. Be sure to mention that you are part of the Altair Reunion when making reservations. Their number is (877) 502-4653. And after you make your reservation give me a call, Tom Planes @ (678) 201-5105 so I can update the dinner order.

The hotel is within walking distance of Barefoot Landing, a multiuse complex that offers specialty shops, fine restaurants and two of the best shows in Myrtle Beach. The Alabama Theatre (for which we have reservations) and the House of Blues. I have tried to keep the cost down and limit the planned portion of the reunion to give more time for visiting and catch up.

The stocking and set up of the hospitality room for three days will be coordinated by Sandi and me. We plan to have the room open for 12 hours per day and will have adult and soft drinks along with trays of various goodies for your enjoyment. There will be a cost of $25.00 per person for this and it needs to be sent to me: Tom Planes, 1177 Vintage Way, Hoschton, GA 30548 by September 25, 2008.

Optionally, if you wish to go out with the group on Friday and/or Saturday evening the following has been scheduled:

> Friday evening at The Alabama Theatre to see their production of “ONE – The Show”. Voted #1 by Myrtle Beach Visitors, One -The Show is back for its 8th exciting year. The talented cast and crew of over 40 have spent hundreds of hours reinventing the show with fabulous new songs, dance & comedy. One -The Show features the charm of emcee and featured vocalist Greg Rowles, and one-of-the-funniest guys in the country Grant Turner's Ricky Mokel. Looking for an evening filled with song, dance, and laughter, Alabama Theatre is the place to be with your family and friends! One -The Show features an all-new production with over 25 new chart-topping songs, and an incredible Beatles Pop segment playing six nights a week. Prepare to be wowed by a stunning presentation from the Broadway's Disney musical, Mary Poppins. Visual surprises await you in this show-stopping medley from one of the most charming musicals ever written. The cost is $27.00 per person.

> Saturday dinner at California Dreaming the cost is $22.50 per person, which includes tax and gratuity.

The cost of the optional events need to be sent to Charles Brecheisen, 248 Drifting Cloud, Holly Lake Ranch, TX 75765-6321 no later than September 25, 2008.

We will have an auction to raise money for the secured future of the Altair news letter. This will mean bringing some memorabilia of the Altair or a craft, knitting, painting, posters you name it. John Thomas is a professional auctioneer and it will be fun.

Bring a photo of you in uniform and we can have a name that sailor contest.

We also plan to have a story time (remembrances) that folks might want to share a tale about their life aboard Altair, keeping it clean of course.

We already have a spot reserved at the Altair photo site for this reunion. That means lots of pictures will be taken.

To recap:

Send the following checks by September 25, 2008:

$25.00 per person attending to Tom Planes, 1177 Vintage Way, Hoschton, GA 30548

Optional events to Charles Brecheisen, 248 Drifting Cloud, Holly Lake Ranch, TX 75765-6321:

> Friday evening at The Alabama Theater @ $27.00 per person
> Saturday evening at California Dreaming @ $22.50 per person

To Bring to the reunion:

> A photo of you in uniform
> Something to auction off
> Think of a story you would like to share

Above all BE THERE we want to see you!

Shipmate Passing

Greetings Altair Shipmates.

I received the following email:

"I wanted to let you know that my father, Daniel J. Andryszak, who was a Fireman (FN) and was assigned to the Altair from 1953-1955, passed away on August 18th, 2008. Regards, Daniel A. Andryszak"

The Andryszak family can be reached at:

1976 Guy Way
Dundalk, MD 21222-4751
410-284-1048

I will mail a sympathy card from the Altair Crew.

Best Regards, Charles

August 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

WEATHER: As hurricane Gustav is hitting New Orleans right now, we are preparing here in East Texas. The latest forecast for E. TX is for 50-60MPH winds and 5-10+ inches of rain starting tonight. Fortunately, I have a 5KW generator, full gas tanks, water and lots of food. Our thoughts and prayers are with the gulf coast who are bearing the brunt of this storm.

FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $698.98 with $33.05 in expenses and income of $35.00 leaving a balance of $700.93.

REUNION: If you plan to attend the Altair reunion, please send Tom Planes an email and confirm. Tom can be reached at tomplanes@alltel.net

I will keep this short and just say "all for now." If you need to contact me, please us cmbaltairaks32@!fastmail.us

Best Regards To All.......Charles

July 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

WARNING: I live in the piney woods of E. Texas. We have lots of scorpions, snakes, bugs, etc. I like to work in the woods as I do not have a yard; and, I keep my shoes on the front porch. Rule #1: Every time I put on the shoes from the front porch, shake them out. Rule #2: Please obey Rule #1. This morning I put the shoes on without shaking them out. When I put my left show in, I felt something moving in the toe. Ripping my shoe off, out hopped a beautiful green tree frog. Nuff said! I will be checking and double checking, etc.

AMATEUR RADIO CALL SIGN: I applied for what is called a club "Vanity" call sign of NB5EQ and the FCC gave it to me on July 11 under "USS Altair Memorial Association" of which all the Altair shipmates are members. You can visit http://www.qrz.com and in the top upper left of the page you can type in NB5EQ where it says call sign and it will take you to the NB5EQ page. I will be adding more information soon and will soon be "on the air" for Navy and Memorial special events. This should generate lots of activity on our web site. I will have special NB5EQ cards and certificates printed soon.

INTERESTING SITE: Here is a neat and interesting site dealing only with Naval 'covers' or envelopes. Please visit the home page of http://www.navalcovermuseum.org/ Click on "Enter New Museum" and then click on "Main Collection" and then click on "#1 US Ships by Name." There is an A-Z list and if you click on "A" and scroll down to and click on Altair it will take you to a page with pictures of some USS Altair envelopes that were used. It's a neat site!

FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $738.93 with no income and FCC expenses of $39.95 leaving a balance of $698.98.

ALTAIR NEWSLETTER: I have the newsletter about finished and should be in the mail in a matter of weeks. Please don't forget the Altair Plaque Ceremony and the Altair reunion coming up in October.

As usual, please do NOT reply to this email but use cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us

Best Wishes to All........Charles

June 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

Summer got here early this year and it looks like a long hot drier summer.

ALTAIR RADIO CALL: I have been awarded the amateur radio call of KE5VEA. I have filed with the FCC for the call NB5EQ and will be awarded that call on July 11. The name of the organization is "USS Altair AKS32 Memorial Association" and both calls will be listed on www.QRZ.com along with my personal call of W5VFO.

FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $703.93 with income of $35.00 and no expenses leaving a balance of $738.93.

UNUSUAL WEB SITE: Ever have trouble telephoning a company and getting nothing but a computer......well, try www.gethuman.com and it will give you a telephone number to talk to a real person.

I hope everyone has a very happy and fun-filled July 4th.........and, especially a safe one!

Best Regards To All........Charles

May 2008 by Charles Brecheisen

It's hard for me to believe.....that it is already June! Looks like we (in East Texas) will be in for a long hot dry summer.

ALTAIR RADIO CALL: As I remember, the radio call sign for the Altair was NBEQ. November Bravo Echo Quebec. Is this correct? If it is, I am going to apply for a memorial ham radio call sign of NB5EQ and participate in the yearly Museum Ship weekend contest. I have contacted 69 different ships worldwide, USA, Russian, Australian, Canadian, etc. in the past few years and thought it might be neat to put the Altair Memorial radio call on the air. Please let met know at cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us Thanks!


FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $698.90 with income of $25.00 and expenses of $19.97 leaving a balance of $703.93. Expenses were for paper, ink and labels.

ALTAIR PLAQUE: The Plaque Ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2008 at the US Memorial Foundation, 701 Pennsylvania Ave, Washington, DC. A film, "At Sea" will be shown at 12PM noon followed by the ceremony at 1 PM.

ALTAIR REUNION: The second Altair reunion will take place October
24,24 and 26, 2008 at the Courtyard By Marriott, 1000 Commons Blvd., Myrtle Beach SC. Reservations can be made 877-502-4653 as a $69.00 rate.

All for now. Please contact me with any comments or questions cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us


Best Wishes To All.........Charles