Sad news via Bruce Davis 😢

Sad to announce that Chuck Raggo’s wife Faye has passed.  Her battle with Alzheimer’s is over as of yesterday, 17 November 2024.  May she rest in peace.

2024 reunion cancelled

Dear Altair Crew and loved ones,  I sincerely hope all is well and you are enjoying a wonderful summer.

Due to lack of response the 2024 Altair reunion is cancelled.  Only one member responded in the positive and most of the regular attendees have informed me they would not be coming this year, mostly because of ill health or age related reasons.

I have not yet decided if I am willing to start planning for next year but will keep you posted.

Love and God Bless you all,

Bruce Davis

Reunion Coordinator 

bandedavis@bellsouth.net 

2024 Altair reunion update from Bruce Davis reunion chairman.

 Dear Shipmates,  This years reunion was extended to 6 nights at the suggestion of several members.  If you would like to attend but not for 6 nights, or there may be scheduling conflicts, or inflation has made things a little too pricey let me know.  Check the itinerary and pick the dates you would like to attend.  I will adjust the registration fee and reduce the price accordingly.  

Bruce

Reunion Information 

2024 reunion in Myrtle Beach, SC

 Dear Altair Crew,

This is the official announcement for the 2024 reunion to be held at the Sea Watch Resort, 161 Seawatch Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC from the 8th of October to the 14th of October (2 extra days).

Encl:   (1) Registration Form.  Registration form must be filled out and mailed to me with a check so that I receive it by September 8th.  This is necessary to provide lead time to lock in reservations, pay deposits etc.

Encl:   (2)  Itinerary

Banquet Dinner Menu:  Edie and I selected bread, salad, coffee, tea or water, steak, grilled skewered shrimp, roasted potatoes, asparagus and New York cheesecake for dessert. 

I have arranged for dinner at Joe’s Bar and Grill before the show Saturday night at the Alabama Theater.  Attendance is voluntary, order from the menu and pay as you go.  Just answer yes or no on the Registration Form.  Same for Dinner at Landry’s Seafood House on Thursday.

Other sites you might like to visit in your free time include:  ttps://www.brookgreen.org/BotanicalGardens, Barefoot Landing, 4898 HWY 17S, North  Myrtle Beach. 

Filling in for Charles,
Dick Braun

Please reply to Bruce at bandedavis@bellsouth.net for questions or concerns.

2024 Reunion Information

Greetings U.S.S. Altair Crew:

The 2024 Altair reunion is scheduled in Myrtle Beach, North Carolina from Tuesday the 8th of October to Monday the 14th of October.  It will be held at the SeaWatch Resort, 161 Sea Watch Drive, Myrtle Beach, NC 29572.

Anyone  interested or thinks they may be interested in attending please copy my email address into a new email and email me at bandedavis@bellsouth.net.  I will in turn send all the details plus keep you updated as plans are made.

The SeaWatch is a resort so all rooms consist of bedroom, living room and balcony with ocean view.

Don't miss out.  Get back to me now and I will keep you informed of everything including shows, meals, outings and prices.

March 2024 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for March 2024.
There was not much in the way of news in March.  Seems like all the news was about the upcoming solar eclipse in April.  Fortunately, Holly Lake Ranch, Texas was right in the middle of the eclipse and I had a nice view.....or lack of view.  I seem to remember while I was aboard the Altair in 1960 and the Altair was anchored off the coast of France and we were on a bus touring trip in the hills, and we stopped on the road and saw another total solar eclipse.  And, as I remember, the bus was heading to a French perfume factory which we could smell at least 10 miles away.  Oh boy, a bunch of sailors going to a perfume factory. 

FINANCIAL:  The beginning cash-on-hand balance was $15.16 with no changes; the beginning and ending savings balance is $2,436.37 with no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $1,176.26 with no changes.  Totals $3,627.79.

All for now.  Comments and questions send to me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com

http://altair.smugmug.com 

February 2024 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is our monthly report for February 2024.

Winter seems to be almost over for East Texas.......or at least we never really had a winter.  No snow or ice but quite a bit of rain.  March into April may still hold a surprise or two.

FINANCIAL:   The beginning cash-on-hand balance was $45.51 with an expense for the Altair email address and a snail mail sum of $30.35 leaving a balance of $15.16 (Do not send me any replacement money);  the beginning and ending Savings balance is $2,436.37 no income or expenses; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $1,176.26 no changes.  Totals $3,627.79.

All for now.  Comments and questions send to me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Wishes to All......Charles

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://altair.smugmug.com

January 2024 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

It's starting to be an interesting year in my neck of the woods.  January was not a particularly cold month for a change. So far February, usually the  worst weather month here in East Texas has been warm.  But not so in other areas of the country.  

Since my health has become very precarious, I am making another appeal for another shipmate to set up another email system for the Altair.  I have a multitude shipmate information files available.  Another email list would have to be set up generated possibly using "MailChimp" (or others) which would not charge for using less than 1000 contacts.   I show 238 shipmates in this email file that I use and about 45-50 shipmates that would have to be snail mailed for reunion information.  This email address (fastmail.us) would not be able to be used as we have already tried that.  I should have set this up years ago but I did not.  

FINANCIAL:  My beginning and ending cash-on-hand balance is $45.51, no change; the beginning and ending savings balance is $2,436.37, no change; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $1,176.26, no change.  Total of $3,658.14.

All for now.  For comments or questions contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us

Beat Regards To All.......Charles

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com

http://altair.smugmug.com 

December 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

YIPES:  Another year has passed and I keep asking myself, where did it go?  I sort of live in a retirement area and keep hearing from all my neighbors asking the same question.  This has to be a better year!

SHIPMATE PASSING:  Shipmate Joseph Basso , a good friend that I served with, passed away this last December 11, 2023.  Shipmate Basso was a SN aboard the Altair 1960-1962 and resided in Matawan, NJ.  I have listed a click below to his obit.  The Basso phone number is 732-441-1077, wife is Katie and their address is 16 Edgemere Dr., Matawan, NJ 07747

https://www.echovita.com/us/obituaries/nj/matawan/joseph-basso-17334827

FINANCIAL:  My cash-on-hand is $45.51, no changes;  Altair savings balance total change to $2,436.26; Reunion Committee Balance changed to $1,176.26.  Totaling $3,658.14.  

For questions or any comments contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://altair.smugmug.com

November 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

PEARL HARBOR DAY:  Today is Pearl Harbor Day.  Let us never forget the 2403 Americans that were killed in the sneak attack.  Let's hope we are better prepared!

ALTAIR REUNION PHOTOS:  https://altair.smugmug.com/Reunions/2023-reunion-by-Dan-Douglas/ 

FINANCIAL: Beginning and ending cash-on-hand balance is $45.51, no changes; beginning and ending savings is $2,386.37, no changes; beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $971.02, no changes. Totals of $3,402.90

MISC:  It's hard to believe that another year has slipped by; I keep wondering where it went.  Oh well, on to the next one!

I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas; a Happy Hanukkah or "Chag Urim Sameach" and all have a happy and safe New Years and a prosperous and healthy 2024!

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

http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://altair.smugmug.com

October 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for October 2023.

SHIPMATE PASSING:  Shipmate Thomas, John B., FN 1960-1962 passed 29 October 2023.

REUNION:  The reunion from 6th thru the 10th this month in Myrtle Beach, SC.  Have fun and enjoy the companionship!

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash balance is $45.51, no changes;  beginning and ending savings is $2,386.37, no changes; beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $971.02, no changes.  Totals of $3,402.90

ALTAIR INFORMATION AND REPORTING:  Since my month old lightning strike disaster and my precarious ever decreasing health situation, it is imperative that a backup information source be established and fairly quickly.  I should have done this some time ago!  I show a total of 296 active shipmates with 239 using email and 57 shipmates only using snail mail for the information.  I keep a multitude database records all on Excel:  an active address list, a shipmate list for each Altair active year in service and a master master list showing over 700 shipmates listed.  These lists are available to any Altair shipmate wishing to see the others that were aboard when he was.  Plus, maintaining communications regarding the upcoming Altair reunions is critical and also other important updates.  Shipmate Ivan Samuels has suggested using Mailchimp as an email source since the cost would be zero for less than 500 emails.  As an address data base for labels, I use "StatTrack Address Manager All Pro 5.1.7" and it's a pretty good system.  It's really been fun and I have enjoyed doing all this!!  But, if I crash...............  So, we need a volunteer to develop a back up system.  You can contact me on this email address or my home email address "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

All for now.  For questions and info, please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

September 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Crew.  Here is your monthly report for September 2023.

DISASTER:  Last week I suffered a lightning hit.  And, even though I thought I was unplugged grounded and prepared, guess what!  It made no difference!  I lost my main computer, complete land line telephone system, TV, Internet and a couple of misc items.  Fortunately, I had the system backed up on an outboard hard drive plus 2 SanDisk USBs. So, I am learning a new system.  A smart computer user cannot have too many backs!!!!

REUNION:  The next Altair reunion is rapidly approaching....Nov. 6-10.  If you need any additional info, please let me know.

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash balance is $45.51, no changes;  Beginning and ending savings is $2,386.37, no changes;  the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $971.02, no changes.  Totals of $3,402.90.

All for now.  For questions and info contact me at 'cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us'

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

August 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for August 2023.

East Coast Shipmates be on the alert for approaching hurricane!!

SHIPMATE PASSING:  Shipmate Mike Troiano reports the passing of  Shipmate Doug Iorio, SK3 1963-65.  Shipmate Iorio's son, Paolo would like a photograph of his father in a Navy uniform while aboard ship.  If any shipmate can find a photograph of Shipmate Iorio in uniform, please forward to Shipmate Mike Troiano for passing along to son Paolo Iorio.  Mike can be reached at "michael.troiano@att.net"  I have been thru all my files and since I was not aboard with Shipmate Iorio, I found nothing showing SK3 Iorio.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash balance is $45.51 with no changes; the beginning and ending saving balance is $2,386.37 with no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $971.02 with no changes.  Totaling $3,402.90.

All for now.  Any questions or comments, please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us"

Best Wishes To All.........Charles 

July 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for July 2023.

Not much news and not much going around my neck of the woods.  Due to no rain, burn bans everywhere and daily temperatures  102-106 daily with higher humidity.

SHIPMATE PASSING:  It was report the following shipmate's passing:

    Babyak, Douglas, MM2, 1961-1963 on or near June 2, 2023

FINANCIAL:  Beginning cash balance of $65.46 with a Domain Renewal cost of $19.95 leaving a balance of $45.51; The beginning and ending savings balance of $2,386.37 with no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance of $971.02 with no changes;  totals of $3,402.90,

All for now.  Any comments or questions please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Wishes To All......Charles

June 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for June 2023.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!  Hope every one has a fun filled, good food and a safe holiday!  It's still hard for me to believe that this year is already half gone........Halloween items are already being sold.

SHIPMATES PASSING:  
    Fuller, Joel, SN 1963-1965; MIA
    Guzdziol, Harold L., IC3 1954-1955; passed 29 March 2023
    Smethers, Charles W., SKSN 1952; passed 2 Nov. 2014

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash-on-hand balance $65.46 with no changes; Beginning and ending savings $2,386.37 with no changes; beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance $971.02 with no changes.  Total Altair balance of $3,422.85.

All for now.  Any comments or questions please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Wishes..........Charles

May 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for May.

AIR QUALITY:  Air quality in the NE USA is horrible and dangerous.  Since I have severe lung problems, I watch air quality reports very  closely.  I found a new web site where I get up to date and forecast air quality reports.  The site is "airnow.gov" and just plug in your zip or city.  

SHIPMATE PASSING:  Jindracek, Roy, DK3 1954-1956; passed Nov. 2020.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash-on-hand $65.46 with no changes; the beginning and ending Altair savings is $2,386.37 with no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee Balance is $971.02 with no changes.  Totaling $3,422.85.

All for now.  For comments or questions email me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://altair.smugmug.com

March 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for March 2023.

WEATHER:  It's been a wild weather start for 2023.  I hope all our shipmate and their families keep an acute awareness of the forecasts in their areas; and have emergency plans.  I have been lucky here in NE Texas and we have only had the tail end of the major front systems.  The rest of the country has not been so lucky.  TAKE CARE!

FINANCIAL:  My beginning balance was $162.24 and had expenses of $55.00 for postage and $41.78 for printing, leaving a balance of $65.46.  The beginning and ending  balance of the Savings Acct. is $2,386.37 with no change.  The beginning and ending balance of the Reunion Committee Acct. is $971.02 with no change.  Totaling $3,422.85.

SHIPMATES PASSING:  Unfortunately, we lost a few shipmates:

    Ledesma, Ernesto, SK3, 1961-1962; passed Jan 15, 2022
    Konwinski, Stanley W., BT1, 1963-1965; passed Dec. 24, 2020
    Williams, Jackie Lee, SN, 1962-1964, passed Feb. 16, 2023
    Treaster, Donald L., AM1, 1962; passed Feb. 16, 2023
    Fallone, Arthur, SN, 1959-1960; Memorial Service June 17, 2022

All for now.  For questions and comments, contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us" 

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

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://altair.smugmug.com

February 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for February 2023.

SHIPMATE PASSING:  Shipmate Juan Phillips, FA, 1963-1964 passed away Feb. 6, 2023, reported by Shipmate Mike Troiano.  Our condolences to the Phillips family.

WISH I COULD:  A good ham radio friend here at Holly Lake Ranch, Texas, told me that he and wife will be travelling to Barcelona for a weeks vacation in April.  I volunteered to be a travel guide but was sharply turned down due to being in the Navy.  Sob sob......

FINANCIAL:  My February cash on hand began $66.39 and I received $500.00 from savings and had expenses of $404.15 leaving a balance of $162.24.  Expenses were with GreenGeeks web service of $9.95 for ID Protection; and, $394.20 for the next 3 years of web service (called EcoStarter (USA)).  The beginning savings was $2886.37 and $500.00 was sent to me for expenses leaving a balance of $2,386.37.  The beginning and ending Reunion Committee Balance is $971.02.  Total balance is $3,519.63. 

All for now.  Please contact me for any questions, info, etc. at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

We only have 218 shipmates on email.  63 shipmates do not have email.  Total shipmates 281.

Best Regards to All.........Charles

January 2023 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for January 2023.

SHIPMATES PASSING:

    Planes, Tom; MM2, 1960-1963; passed Jan. 5, 2023
    Ridgeway, Kenneth,; MA3; 1962-1964

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash balance is $66.39, no changes; the beginning and end Savings balance of $2,886.37, no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee Balance of $971.02, no changes.  Totaling $3,923.78.

EMAIL SPAM:  I received 6-7 emails from shipmates each asking a small question of "Do you shop at Amazon?"   Some sort of SPAM and I did not reply.  I also received on this email address, 50 SPAMS three different times.  Fortunately, that quit.  I also received an email with a strange named attachment which they wanted me to pass to all the shipmates.  I did not as I have to be so careful sending anything to all the shipmates for fear of spreading a problem.  I would rather be safe than sorry.  It's as bad as getting all those "RoBo" calls.

All for now.  Any questions of comments please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

December 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for December 2022.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!  Let's all have a healthy and happy 2023!

Another year has passed!  I never thought I would get thru year 2000!  And, here it is, 2023.  

Shipmates Passing:
    Bruce, Joseph G., BT3, 1955-1956; passed 2017
    Lee, C.O., SN, 1960-1962; passed 2022
    McClain, Joseph E., LT, 1961-1964; passed 2016

Shipmates MIA:  These are shipmates that have been on the email lists recently, but we can no longer find them anywhere or in the obits, etc.  Therefore, I call them "Missing In Action" and have taken them off the active rosters. I still maintain all their information.
    Deslauriers, Joseph, RMSN, 1959-1960
    Foley, James, SN, 1959-1961
    Babyak, Douglas, MM2, 1961-1963

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash balance is $66.39, no changes; the beginning and ending Savings balance of $2,886.37, no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee Balance of $971.02, no changes.  Totaling $3,923.78,   

All for now.  For any comments or questions please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32[at]fastmail.us"

Best Wishes to All........Charles 

November 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for November 2022.

TODAY IS "PEARL HARBOR DAY"  Please remember our fallen!!!

Another year has almost passed;  where did it go?  I wish I knew.......

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash balance of $66.39, no changes;  beginning and ending savings balance of $2,886.37, no changes; Reunion Committee balance of $971.02, no changes.  Total of $3,923.78.  

All for now; for comments or questions please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Regards...........Charles

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://altair.smugmug.com (Photograph site)

Veterans Day 2022

 Courtesy of shipmate Dan Douglas.  Thanks Dan!

Subject: Fwd: Veterans Day Video

Date: Monday, November 14, 2022 5:30 PM

ddouglas@aol.com

Powerful Veterans Day Video - YouTube 

Powerful Veterans Day Video

Courtesy of Shipmate Dan Douglas.  Thanks Dan!

Subject: Veterans, Gold Star Families get free lifetime pass to national parks, wildlife refuges, other public lands

Date: Thursday, November 17, 2022 5:04 AM

https://news.va.gov/110751/free-lifetime-pass-to-national-parks/

October 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for October 2022.

Not much news around here except the Holiday season is approaching rapidly.  In fact, it seems like the entire year slipped by and I didn't even notice.  Where did it go?

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash balance of $66.39, no changes; beginning and ending savings  balance of $2,886.37, no changes;  Reunion Committee balance of $971.02, no changes.  Total of $3,923.78.

Happy Thanksgiving to all Shipmates and families!

All for now; for comments or questions contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Regards........Charles

http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org
http://aks32.blogspot.com
http://altair.smugmug.com  (Photograph site)

September 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for September 2022.

HURRICANE IAN:  What an unbelievable storm!  I have received no reports from shipmates as to damage status.  To all I hope and pray for the best.

REUNION PHOTOS:  Reunion photos have been uploaded to the Altair Photo web site; Thanks!  To date, I have received no other reports on the reunion;  access to the site:

    http://altair.smugmug.com

FINANCE:  My cash-on-hand is $66.39, no changes; savings balance, $2,886.37, no changes; the Reunion Committee Balance increased by $300.71 increasing to a total of $971.02.  Total $3,923.78. 

All for now.  Any questions or comments to "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

August 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for August 2022.

SHIPMATE:  Shipmate passing reported from daughter:

    Knox, Arthur F., LDCR, 1963-1965, passed 1 Feb. 2015. (Was still on the snail mailing list)

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash balance is $66.39, no changes; the beginning and ending saving balance is $2,886.37, no changes; the beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $670.31, no changes. Totals $3,623.07. 

Sorry for the delay in the monthly report as I have been a little under the weather.  Keep me posted with info and notes.

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

July 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for July 2022.

The heat has been unbearable here in ETX and we are under continual county burn-bans.  No relief in sight.  Other areas of the country are being flooded.

FINANCIAL:  My beginning cash-on-hand was $80.34 with an expense of $13.95 to maintain the Altair web name leaving a balance of $66.39.  The beginning and ending saving balance is $2,886.37, no change.  The Reunion Committee  beginning and end balance $670.31, no change.  Totals are $3,623.07. 

SHIPMATES:  The following shipmates were reported deceased:

    Goterba, John, MM2, 1961-63; passed Jan. 12, 2022
    Todd, Denwood J., SK3, 1955-56; passed Nov. 2, 2021
    Kondrach, Mick, EM1, 1965-67; passed Dec. 1 2019
    RIchardson, Hoyt F., SN, 1953-55; passed Oct. 1, 2019
    Myers, Thomas, CS3, 1955-57; passed Nov. 5, 2018

    We have two shipmates we have not been able to track down or locate and I will call them as MIA's.
         Ziegler, Joseph, ET3 1965-66
         Williams, Willie, IC3, 1966

REUNION:  I hope every shipmate that will be attending the Altair reunion has responded to Bruce with all the proper info, etc.  Sounds like a good time!!

All for now.  For any questions or comments, please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32[at]fastmail.us

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

June 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is the report for June 2022.

Summer has arrived as I have already seen days of 105 and it's super dry with no rain in sight.  I hate to see this coming August!!

Courtesy of Shipmate Ivan Samuels, here is a film on the USS Constitution.  A great watch!!

    https://youtu.be/YTsdaQBJONg

FINANCIAL:  My cash-on-hand is $80.34 with no income or expenses;  Altair savings $2,886.37 with no income or expenses; Reunion Committee balance of $670.31 with no income or expenses.  Totals of $3,637.02.  

REUNION:  If you are going to attend the next Altair reunion and have not responded to the Reunion Chairman Bruce Davis yet, please do so ASAP.  It helps planning reunion activities, etc.  Bruce can be reached at "bandedavis@bellsouth.net" or at 321-278-8068.

All for now.  For any questions or comments please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us"

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

May 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for May 2022.

D-DAY Remembrance:  Yesterday, we had a D-Day remembrance at our Military park in Hawkins, TX.  Lots of attendees and stories being swapped!  Our Memorial has a Viet Nam era helicopter permanently displayed over a small lake.  Still has all the wiring for all the gun mounts.  And, a list of names of all the folks that have served in the Military from the American Revolution to present day who have lived in Wood County, Texas at one point in their life. It's really impressive!

REUNION:  All the shipmates, 250 via email and 80 snail mails have been delivered.  If you are planning to attend the reunion, please respond back to the reunion chairman, Bruce Davis ASAP.  Bruce can be reached at "bandedavis@bellsouth.net" or at 321-278-8068.

FINANCIAL:  Started my cash-on-hand of $194.77 and had expenses of $114.43 which includes stamps, printing, labels, etc. leaving a balance of $80.34.  (Please do not send me any additional expense money).  The beginning and ending savings balance is $2,886.37.  The beginning and ending Reunion Comm. Balance is $670.31.  Total monies $3,637.02.

All for now.  Please get your reunion info to Bruce pronto.  For any questions or comments please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

Reunion 2022 with forms link

 Here it is.  The 2022 reunion.  Please send it out to everyone. The one labelled Announcement is the Letter to the crew.  Follow this link for registration forms: official USS Altair web site  Call me if you get puzzled.321-278-8068; or "bandedavis [at] bellsouth.net"

Thank you

Bruce

April 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Crew.  Here is your monthly report for April 2022.

I have included the 2022 Reunion info from chairman Bruce Davis.  More info to follow as available.

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash-on-hand $194.77, no changes.  Beginning and ending savings $2,886.37, no changes.  Reunion Committee beginning and ending balance $670.31, no changes.  Total of $3,751.45. 

"Dear Altair Crew,

This year’s reunion will be held at the Microtel Inn, Uncasville, CT from the 5th of September to the 9th of September. I am in the process of determining the cost per person and signing contracts.  We will be staying at the Microtel Inn by Wyndham, Uncasville. CT

Here is a brief itinerary:  Monday, 5 Sept. Check in and Welcome aboard.  Tues.  Mystic Seaport Tour, Wed. Guided tour of Mystic Aquarium and Movie, Thurs. Gather at Diana’s for breakfast (price not included) and Banquet dinner. 

Other sites you might like to visit in your free time include:

Mystic Museum of Art   www.mysticmuseumofart.org

Mohegan Sun Casino   www.mohegansun.com 1.6 miles

Submarine Force Library and Museum, 1 Crystal Lake Road, Groton, CT 9.8 miles 800-343-0079

Mougle Sierra Vineyard, 825 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard, CT   6.7 miles 860-464-2987

Preston Ridge Vineyard, 100 Miller Rd, Preston, CT 860-383-4278 19 miles

Sincerely yours,

Bruce G. Davis"

All for now.  For questions and comments please use "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Wishes to all..........Charles

2022 reunion

Dear Altair Crew,

This year’s reunion will be held at the Microtel Inn, Uncasville, CT from the 5^th of September to the 9^th of September.  I am in the process of determining the cost per person and signing contracts.  We will be staying at the Microtel Inn by Wyndham, Uncasville. CT

Here is a brief itinerary:  Monday, 5 Sept. Check in and Welcome aboard.  Tues.  Mystic Seaport Tour, Wed. Guided tour of Mystic Aquarium and Movie, Thurs. Gather at Diana’s for breakfast (price not included) and Banquet dinner. 

Other sites you might like to visit in your free time include:

Mystic Museum of Art   www.mysticmuseumofart.org

Mohegan Sun Casino   www.mohegansun.com 1.6 miles

Submarine Force Library and Museum, 1 Crystal Lake Road, Groton, CT 9.8 miles 800-343-0079

Mougle Sierra Vineyard, 825 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard, CT   6.7 miles 860-464-2987

Preston Ridge Vineyard, 100 Miller Rd, Preston, CT 860-383-4278 19 miles

 

Sincerely yours,

 

Bruce G. Davis

Bruce

March 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for March 2022.

Spring is arriving and bringing lots of violent weather.  All shipmates and families need to take extreme care when observing the forecasts.  I sure to here in east Texas!

EMAIL PROBLEMS:  Quite a few of the February Monthly Report emails were rejected by Gmail and other Google-hosted addresses.  Even a few AOL addresses were rejected.  My Fastmail account contacted the other hosts and found out that tons of emails claiming to be sent by the Fastmail.us domain were not actlually sent by Fastmail. SPAMMERS saying they were using the Fastmail.us account but were not.  Fastmail has worked with the other email accounts and both have taken appropriate steps to resolve this.  Always something, isn't it!!!!!  If it happens again, I will just resend from my other personal Fastmail account which worked the last time.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash balance is $194.77, no changes.  Beginning and ending savings balance of $2,886.37 with no changes.  Beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $670.31 with no changes.  Sum total of $3,751.45.

All for now.  Any questions or comments, contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

February 2022 monthly report by Charles M. Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for February 2022.

REUNION:  As previously announced by the reunion chairman Bruce Davis, "This years reunion will be held at the Microtel Hotel in Uncasville, CT near Mystic Seaport from 5 September to 9 September 2022.  Set aside those dates and let's go have a good time.  More to follow as I put the rest together.  Signed, Bruce."

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash balance if $194.77, no changes.  Beginning and ending savings balance of $2886.37 with no changes.  Beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $670.31 with no changes.  Sum total of $3751.45.  

All for now.  For info and questions, please contact me at [cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us]

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

Navy ship site — Good Altair article.

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is a neat Navy Ship site where crews can add their names to ships lists.  This is courtesy of Shipmate Ivan Samuels.  Thanks Ivan!!  There are quite a few shipmates listed from the Altair of which I have no record of 11 of them.  Wow, are my records that bad!  I guess so..........

https://www.hullnumber.com/

Click on "Other Commands" and then "Auxiliaries" and that will take you a page to find AKS-32 info. 

January 2022 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for January 2022.

WOW!  Is it really 2022?  Where did 2021 and all the previous years get to?  I guess I blinked.

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash balance $194.77, no changes.  Beginning and ending savings balance of $2,886.37 with no changes.   Beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance $670.31 with no changes.  Sum total of $3,751.45.

SHIPMATE:  It's always nice to hear from old shipmates and Shipmate Tom Planes, MM2, 1960-63 would like to hear from some of his shipmates that remember him.  Tom's home number is 770-307-1747 and his cell number is 678-201-5105.  Tom's wife Sandi will return your call if you leave a message.  Please give Tom a call and make his day brighter!!  This info came from Shipmate Joe Basso.  

All for now with sleet, freezing rain and ice forming the trees and roads all around East Texas.

For additional info please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

December 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for December 2021.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022!!!

ANOTHER YEAR?  Hard to believe, where did last year go to?  Seemed like I just blinked and it just zipped right on by. 

FINANCIAL:  Beginning and ending cash-on-hand $194.77 with no income or expenses; beginning and ending savings balance $2,886.37 with no income or expenses; Reunion Committee beginning and ending balance $670.31 with no income or expenses.  Totaling $3,751.45.  

All for now.  Let 's all have a Safe, Happy, Healthy and a Prosperous 2022!!!

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

November 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for November 2021.

SHIPMATES REPORTING NO MONTHLY REPORT:  I had two shipmates email me that they have not received the monthly report in many months.  I show mailing to the correct email address and resent a test message requesting they respond to that email.  No response from them.  Then I snail mailed a copy of my email.  Still no response.  I requested info from my "fastmail" group.  They claim that, in most cases a person's SPAM control may be set too high and the emails are sent to the junk mail box.  I always check my trash bin daily.  If this doesn't work, then I am stumped.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash-on-hand is $194.77; no income or expenses.  The beginning and ending savings balance is $2,886.37 with no income or expenses.  The beginning and ending Reunion Committee balance is $670.31 with no income or expenses.  Total balances of $3,751.45.  

INTERESTING NON-COMPUTER SHIPMATE FACTS:  Not too many years ago, we had a snail mail list of about 142 Altair shipmates.  In the past several years the list dropped to about 120 shipmates.  Last year, we only had 96 shipmates receiving reunion information via snail mail.  Kinda scary!!

I want to wish all our Shipmates and families and friends to have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HANUKKAH AND HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEARS AND LOOK FORWARD TO A BETTER 2022!! 

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

October 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for October 2021.

REUNION:  A great reunion was had by all!!  Photos are up at http://altair.smugmug.com

SHIPMATE:  Shipmate Harold Dillingham, HM3 1962-1963 is wishing to chat with any shipmates that remember him from this time aboard.  He can be reached at 502-533-5486.  

FINANCIAL:  I have all the expenses from the reunion last month and have decided just to include the info in this months October report.  My cash-on-hand beginning and end is $194.77 with no income or expenses.  The beginning savings balance was $10,486.37 with no income and expenses of:  $100.00 expense coverage to Jim Braydon; $2,500.00 to three different Service Foundations (see below) leaving a balance of $2,886.37.  The beginning Reunion Committee beginning balance was $1,000.00 which incurred several reunion expenses of $329.69 leaving a balance of $670.31 which will remain with the reunion chairman for upcoming reunion expenses.  Total Altair cash balance of $3751.45. 

ALTAIR DONATIONS:  In a great move, it was decided to make several donations to several worthwhile charities.  The charities were asked to provide operating expenses, etc.  Selected were the Gary Sinise Foundation, Navy-Marine Relief Society and Tunnels to Towers Foundation.  $2500 was sent to each one.  WHAT A GREAT WAY TO GO, GUYS!!!!!  Sure makes me feel proud.........

All for now.......(hope I got all my figures correct in the financial!!)  For any additional info or questions, please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us" 

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

July 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your report for July 2021.

REUNION:  The Altair reunion is getting closer!!  If you need additional information, please contact Reunion Chairman Bruce Davis at "bandedavis [at] bellsouth.net" or Tel: 407-380-1700 or cell 321-278-8068.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning cash-on-hand was $208.72 with no income and an expense of $13.95 for Domain Renewal leaving a balance $194.77.  The beginning and ending of the Altair savings is $10,486.37; and, the Reunion Committee beginning and end balance is $1,000.00. (No income or expenses to either) Total balance of $11,681.14.

WW2 HISTORY:  Shipmate Doug Justice, MA3, 1964 has authored several books on WW2 history.  For additional information, please contact Doug at "dougusnret [at] hotmail.com"

All for now.  For questions or information please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

.

June 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for June 2021.

REUNION:  The reunion at Pigeon Forge, TN set up has been completed and all information and forms has been issued.  For additional information, please contact Reunion Chairman Bruce Davis at "bandedavis [at] bellsouth.net; or 407-380-1700 or cell 321-278-8068.  Great job Bruce!!

FINANCIAL: The beginning cash-on-hand was $277.90 with no income and expenses for postage and printing of $69.18 leaving a balance of $208.72.  The beginning and ending balance of Savings is $101,486.37 with no income or expenses.  The beginning and ending balance of the Reunion Committee is $1,000.00 with no income or expenses. Totaling $11,695.09.

SHIPMATE STATUS:  The following shipmates have passed:

    Blanco, Alfred, PN2 1954-1955 (family said passed in 1999 creates some confusion)
    Dachtler, John, FN 1958-1960, Passed 2021
    Williams, Kell C., LTJG 1967-1969 (Unable to locate; consider MIA)
    Baker, Perry, EMP3 1953-1955, passed 2019
    Carter, Albert G., SH2 1953-1955, passed 2019
    Helman, Daniel C., SK3 1962-1964, passed 2020. 

All for now.  Hopefully ALL shipmates and families had a great and safe July 4th!!

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

May 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for May 2021.

REUNION:  Bruce Davis, reunion chairman, reports that the final activities setup is just about complete and we should have all information confirmed within a week.  I will sent this info via email to the crew.  I am working on getting info to the non-computer users via snail mail.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending cash-on-hand balance is $277.90 with no income or expenses.   The beginning and ending savings balance is $10,486.37 with no income or expenses.  The Reunion Committee balance is $1,000.00 with no income or expenses.  Total balance $11,764.27.

NOTE:  Several Altair crew members have reported receiving emails from other crew members just asking for a reply. This includes myself and a couple of the emails to were not from crew members.  Somehow, the Altair mailing list has been breached.  I believe this is called "phishing" and can be dangerous to your computer.  I have not opened any of these emails and will not  open them.  PLEASE, when  forwarding any emails, PLEASE delete any other email addresses that are  contained in the body of the email.  The emails in the body of the info can be stolen and sold on the open market.  Special software searches for these email addresses.  Does anyone wonder why sometimes they get jibberish or advertising emails?  It's just like phone SPAM.

All for now.  For questions or info, please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Best Regards to All...........Charles 

April 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greetings Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for April 2021.

It's hard for me to believe that it's already May!!!!  Where has the year gone?

FINANCIAL:  The beginning and ending Cash-On-Hand is $277.90 with no income or expenses.  The beginning and ending Savings balance is $10,486.37 with no income or expenses.  The beginning and ending Reunion expenses is $1,000.00 with no income or expense.  Totaling $11,764.27.

REUNION:  Reunion Chairman Bruce Davis reports the following:  "If the masks come off and social distancing is no longer required the reunion will take place in Pigeon Forge, TN from September 20th to September 24th.  The Clarion Inn 124 Waldens Main Street is where we will stay.  More to come by June 1st."

Let's all hope the masks can come off and COVID is reduced to almost zero and we can have our reunion!

Be Safe and Stay Safe!!!!!!!!

Not much more........All for now.  For comments or info, please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

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

March 2021 monthly report by Charles Brecheisen

 Greeting Altair Shipmates.  Here is your monthly report for March 2021.

FINANCIAL:  The beginning cash-on-hand was $288.90 with a stamp expense of $11.00 leaving a balance of $277.90. The beginning savings account was $11486.37 and of this figure, $1000.00 was transferred to a new "Reunion Committee" account under Bruce Davis leaving a balance of $10,486.37.  The new "Reunion Committee" account shows a balance of $1,000.00.  The combined total is $11,764.27.

REUNION:  Reunion Chairman Bruce Davis is currently getting the reunion information available, and will be sent out to all the shipmates when complete.

NEW SHIPMATES:  Please welcome aboard the following new shipmates:

    Hoagland, Nicholas G., FA 1969; resides in Corpus Christi, TX

    Ryniak, Robert S., MR3 1969; resides in Frasier, MI

SHIPMATES PASSING:  The following shipmates have passed:

    Ferrell, Bill, LT, 1961-1963; passed June 30, 2019

    Hutter, William R. QMSN, 1955-1956; passed Dec. 27, 2020.  Mrs. Barb Hutter wishes to continue to receive the Altair Monthly Reports and would like to attend an Altair reunion.  

MISC. NOTES:  We did another snail mailing to quite a few shipmates whose email addresses were always rejected and found several that had changed email or had moved.  So, they are back on the Altair shipmate list.  We still wound up with several shipmates that cannot be traced down trying multiple info date.  It's always a challenge keeping a current updated membership list.

All for now.  Any questions or comments please contact me at "cmbaltairaks32 [at] fastmail.us"

Stay Safe!!

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