James SCHENK, Association Chaplain

---

6  FEBRUARY  2025

Addendum to entry made 27 MAY 2024

Re: 'CAPTAIN' Rear Admiral Pete Chabot

The following is from an email received today from Admiral Fountain.

THANK YOU, Sir !

"Fellow Flag Officers.

It is with deep regret I inform you of the passing of Rear Admiral (lower half) Peter Gordon Chabot, U.S. Navy, Retired, on 27 May 2024 at age 86.  RDML Chabot entered the U.S. Naval Academy in June 1956 and served as a Submarine Officer until his retirement in August 1990 as Inspector General for U.S. Atlantic Command/U.S. Atlantic Fleet.  His commands included USS SEA DEVIL (SSN-664), Nuclear Power Training Unit Idaho Falls, and Submarine Squadron TEN (SUBRON 10).

Peter Chabot took the Oath of Office at the U.S. Naval Academy on 25 June 1956.  According to the “Lucky Bag” (yearbook), “Little Bear” was described as “his intelligence, his athletic ability and his personality as well as those other qualities J.P. Jones requires of a Naval Officer immediately won him the respect of his classmates…These traits, plus his infinite coffee capacity will make him a welcome addition to the wardroom of any submarine.” On 8 June 1960, he graduated with distinction with a Bachelor’s Degree in Naval Science and was commissioned an ensign.  Selected for the Navy Nuclear Power Program, he then reported to the Naval Submarine School, Groton, Connecticut.  In December 1960 he reported to the Atomic Energy Commission, Schenectady Naval Reactors Office and Nuclear Power Training Unit West Milton Site, Schenectady, New York.  In July 1961 he returned to the Naval Submarine School Groton for additional training.

In October 1961, Ensign Chabot was assigned to nuclear powered radar picket submarine USS TRITON (SSRN-586) following TRITON’s record-breaking submerged circumnavigation of the globe (Feb-Apr 1960).  He was promoted to lieutenant (junior grade) in December 1961.  TRITON was the largest and most expensive submarine ever built, to that time, and the only submarine with two reactors. TRITON went into major overhaul to be converted from a radar picket submarine to an attack submarine, while also receiving numerous upgrades to serve as flagship for Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic, with the capability to act as a survivable at-sea command ship in the event of nuclear war.  In March 1964, TRITON shifted home port from New London to Norfolk, Virginia. The submarine would also rescue the pilot and passenger of a small plane that crashed off St. Croix, Virgin Islands.  He was promoted to lieutenant in June 1964.

In October 1965, Lieutenant Chabot was assigned to the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine USS PATRICK HENRY (SSBN 599) (GOLD) as the submarine was undergoing major overhaul and refueling at Electric Boat, including modifications to handle the Polaris A-3 ballistic missile. After relocating to Charleston, South Carolina, PATRICK HENRY completed her 18th through 22nd deterrent patrols, with the 22nd ending at Holy Loch, Scotland in February 1968.  That month, LT Chabot reported to the Staff, Commander Submarine Force, Atlantic, as Force Nuclear Power Officer.  He was promoted to lieutenant commander in June 1968.

In May 1971, Lieutenant Commander Chabot assumed duty as Executive Officer of fast attack submarine USS SPADEFISH (SSN 668).  Based out of Norfolk, SPADEFISH conducted multiple operations in the Atlantic and North Atlantic.   He was promoted to commander in November 1971.  In September 1973, Commander Chabot commenced pre-command training at Division of Naval Reactors, Atomic Energy Commission Washington, DC, followed by Submarine Force Atlantic.

In February 1974, Commander Chabot assumed command of fast attack submarine USS SEA DEVIL (SSN 664).  Based in Norfolk, SEA DEVIL conducted multiple operations in the far North Atlantic and under-ice in the Arctic.  In July 1977, CDR Chabot reported as Chief Staff Officer to Commander Submarine Refit Training Group, La Maddalena, Sardinia.  In June 1979, he assumed command of Nuclear Power Training Unit, Idaho Falls, Idaho.  He was promoted to captain in July 1979.

In July 1981, Captain Chabot assumed command of Submarine Squadron TEN (SUBRON 10) at New London, responsible for 8-10 attack submarines and submarine tender USS FULTON (AS-11).  In August 1983, CAPT Chabot reported to Naval Sea Systems Command as Program Manager, MK‑48 torpedo (PMS 402).

Promoted to rear admiral (lower half) on 1 July 1987, RDML Chabot reported that same month to the Office of Chief of Naval Operations as Director, Undersea and Strategic Warfare and Nuclear Energy Development Division (OP-981).  He attended CAPSTONE at National Defense University in August-September 1987.  In September 1987, he assumed duty as Inspector General for Commander-in-Chief U.S. Atlantic Command and Commander-in-Chief U.S. Atlantic Fleet.  RDML Chabot retired on 1 August 1990.

Rear Admiral Chabot’s awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal (two awards), and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

After retiring from active duty, Rear Admiral Chabot was employed by BG&E at Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, the Exelon Corporation at Dresden Nuclear Station, and the Exelon Regional Operating Group.  He remained very active in U.S. Naval Academy affairs, serving as Class President for several years as well a volunteer skipper, coach, and instructor for the Navy’s offshore sail training squadron.  He served on the Fales Committeee advising the Superintendent on Naval Academy sail programs, while also serving as a sponsor for midshipmen.  In addition, he was volunteer EMT, firefighter and officer of the Solomons, Maryland volunteer rescue squad and fire department for 10 years.  He was elected to the Meriden High School Hall of Fame in 1990.  He was an invited member of the Brotherhood of  the Coast, an international sea-going and social fraternity.  His funeral was held at the U.S. Naval Academy in August 2024.

Today there is a collective amnesia regarding the existential nature of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, as well as the undersea arms race between U.S. and Soviet submarines.  In the 1960’s, this led to risk-taking in submarine design and operations that would be unacceptable today, leading to the loss of USS THRESHER and USS SCORPION.  But hard lessons were learned (by us.  The Soviets/Russians lost over ten submarines to accident since the SCORPION in 1968.)  Nevertheless, during the Cold War, U.S. and Soviet submarines operated the same as during an actual war, except for firing live weapons.  Through their spy-networks, such as Walker-Whitworth, the Soviets knew we had the acoustic advantage in the undersea domain, and therefore developed tactics based on the assumption that a U.S. submarine would get the first shot.  The Soviet sub would counter-fire before being hit, and in a one-for-one exchange of submarines, they would win because they had more submarines.  That was their theory anyway.  However, in the end, the Soviet submarine force could not guarantee the survivability of their sea-based nuclear deterrent force, thereby contributing to the end of the Cold War.  Peter Chabot obviously thrived in this no-margin-for-error environment where a reactor accident or collision with a Soviet submarine could have catastrophic consequences, or start an unintended war.  As XO and CO of fast attack submarines in the 1970’s, his “home life” was constantly subject to unpredictable no-notice departures for indeterminate lengths of time to counter Soviet submarine operations.  His family is due an enduring debt of gratitude for this, and our Navy and nation owes him great gratitude for his significant role in preserving the freedom of this country, and in avoiding a nuclear war. 

Rest in Peace Admiral Chabot

Very respectfully,

Sam     

 I regret the late notification as Flag Matters and I only just learned of his passing (and I managed to miss it in the August 2024 “Shipmate.”)

Samuel J. Cox (SES)

RADM, USN (Ret)

Director of Naval History

Curator for the Navy

Director Naval History and Heritage Command"

1  OCTOBER  2024

This is Skip's wife Deb.

There will be a memorial service on Sunday October 20 from 12-4pm - On board the Coastal Queen boarding at the CruiseRI dock in Jamestown, RI.
Due to Jamestown regulations the boat may not remain at the dock and therefore will get underway promptly.
Anyone who is able and would like to attend - please RSVP to the email below.

captskipsmemorial@gmail.com

Deb

29 SEPTEMBER  2024

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate,  Skip Litterer.

This was posted today on his FB page:

“On this day, MMCS (SS) Skip Litterer went on Eternal Patrol at 6:05am.
Fair Winds and Following Seas Senior Chief”

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

MMCS (SS) Frank O. Litterer...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

23 AUGUST  2024

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate,  

Tommy Hawkins.

Shipmate Herb Tracy  posted notice on the Sea Devil FB Page. 

The following is an excerpt from Tommy's  obituary:

"Tommy Frank Hawkins, Jr. of Merritt Island, Florida passed away peacefully on August 15, 2024 at his home. He was born on August 27, 1954 in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Tommy was 69 years old when we lost him to Pancreatic cancer. We Thank the Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice and Palliative Care group, Team Atlantis, for their kind, compassionate, patient and loving care of Tommy in his final days and hours.

Tommy served 21 years in the US Navy in the Submarine Force. He attained the rank of Senior Chief and was loved and respected for his dedication, passion, and humor by his shipmates. He served on the USS Drum and the USS Sea Devil and spent many days under the ice caps on the submarines doing what our country needed for our security. We thank all of his shipmates and Navy friends for their dedicated, honorable, and supreme sacrifice for the United States of America.

After retirement from the Navy, Tommy worked in the Newport News Shipyard building submarines and aircraft carriers. He then moved to Florida and worked at the Kennedy Space Center on the Shuttle Program. When the program ended, he began his own business, T & D Canvas in Merritt Island and he remained close to the boating community.......... "

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

Senior Chief (SS) Tommy Hawkins...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

______________________________________________________________________________________

5 AUGUST  2024

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate,  Jack Carey.

Shipmate John Shaw posted the following on the Sea Devil FB Page:

"Shortly after midnight today, August 1, 2024, my very good friend of 45-years, ET1(SS) Jack Carey, succumbed to pancreatic cancer at his home in the very northeast corner of Maryland.

Jack is survived by his wife Sandy; daughters Catherine, Jennifer, and Mackenzie; son David; brother Frank MMC(SS); and a number of grandkids.

A native of Newcastle, Delaware, Jack transferred from Silversides to Sea Devil in early 1978.  A fully qualified member of Reactor Controls Division, Jack mentored me as I, having reported aboard in May of that year, ran the BEQ/RO/Ship's qualification gauntlets.  Jack's technical acumen, eye for detail, and patience made all the difference........ "

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

ET 1 (SS) Jack Carey...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

______________________________________________________________________________________

27 MAY  2024

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate and former Captain, Rear Admiral Peter Chabot.

Steve Oscher  received the following email from Jan:

“ Hi Steve, some sad news.  Pete passed away today.  End of suffering.  It was a long goodbye, months of misery.  Final arrangements will include inurnment at Naval Academy at a later date.”

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

Admiral (Captain) 'Pete' Chabot...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

______________________________________________________________________________________

17 APRIL  2024

Hi everyone,

Here's the link to Papa Dave's obituary and service information. Thank you to everyone for your patience, help, and support. 

https://www.sunfloweraz.com/obituaries/David-Nelson-Renn?obId=31130686

If for some reason this link doesn't work, go to sunfloweraz.com, click on obituaries, and then click on David Renn.

Lots of love,

Meredith

_____________________________________________________________________________________

26 MARCH 2024

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate, Dave Renn.

Yesterday, Bobby and Linda Stout received an email from Dave's daughter, Meredith, informing them that Dave went into hospice care Saturday....   

followed by another email today stating:

"It's with sadness that I share that Dave passed away at 8:20 this morning. 

My mother and his caregivers were there....

We will send the service info when we have that."

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

MM1 (SS) David Renn...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

15 JAN 2024

Shipmates,

I received the following email from Olive Porter this afternoon:

Hello Ed,

Please remember my beloved husband Robert F. Porter, went HOME to Gods care December 18, 2020.  RIP

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/sun-city-az/robert-porter-9955069

His Loving wife
Olive

Note ~ the following was posted here previously:

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

Bob Porter has  passed away. 

Dennis 'Doc' Dougherty posted the following on the FB page:

It is with sadness I am reporting the passing on of a fellow shipmate Bob Porter, Nuc Electrician who was aboard the boat in the early 80's. Here is a link to his obituary. Fair winds and following seas brother, rest your oar, we have the watch now.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/.../robert-porter-9955069

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

EM2(SS) Robert Porter ...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

______________________________________________________________________________________

12 JAN 2024

Shipmates,

Included in the email from Bob Harris was this sad news, which I received permission to post from Linda:

"I received word today that Valentine (Val) Daschle has been placed in hospice care due to his deteriorating health from suffering with dementia.  He has lived in the Moncks Corner (Cypress Gardens) area of South Carolina since his retirement from the Navy in the late 1980's or early 1990's."

Please keep Val and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

12 JAN 2024

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate, 

Bruce L Syjud, Sr. 

I received an email from Bob Harris this afternoon:

I received word that QMCM (SS) Bruce L Syjud, Sr.,

 former Sea Devil Command Master Chief (COB), passed away  

August 11, 2023, in Okeechobee, Florida, he was 81 years of age. 

You can google his name (Bruce L. Syjud) or find his obituary at:  legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/florida/okeechobee.  

Although Bruce passed away on August 11, his obituary was not posted on the Legacy website until August 23, which can be found on page 3.

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space. And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place. Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar. No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore." 

Hand Salute 

QMCM (SS) Bruce L. Syjud, Sr.  ....  Rest your oar. 

Ready, Two.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

11 JAN 2024

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate, 

Tony (Tyrus A.) Reese. 

I received an email from Linda and Bobby Stout this evening:

Eddie.... just wanted you to pass this along.  

We found out this afternoon from Jerry Jewell that Tony Reese passed away yesterday. He had had some mini-strokes & think this is what led up to his passing.  His name was  Tyrus, but was called Tony & was a mechanic on the boat when Bobby was on it....

Bobby was on from 1973-77.

Thought we would let you know so others would know.  

Take care.

Bobby & Linda Stout

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space. And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place. Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar. No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore." 

Hand Salute 

MM2 (SS) Tyrus A. (Tony) Reese....  Rest your oar. 

Ready, Two.

______________________________________________________________________________________

6 NOV 2023

Some sad news from our Shipmate Steve Osher regarding 

Admiral Pete Chabot....

I just learned that Admiral Chabot has been admitted into a long term care facility for Alzheimer’s. The facility is in the Williamsburg area.

Jan has suggested anyone wanting to drop Pete a note should send any notes or cards to her at: 

2113 Patriots Colony Drive 

Williamsburg, VA 23188.

Jan’s email is janchabot@icloud.com.

She will make sure he receives and is read any and all correspondence.

______________________________________________________________________________________

29 MARCH 2023

Via email from Skip Short:

Hello All,

I have some very sad news to share. 

Admiral Fountain's sweet wife Betsey passed away early this morning due to a hemorrhage caused by a fall yesterday. 

Betsey and Admiral fountain had been married for nearly 68 years and had four children. 

The Admiral is, of course, devastated, but wanted to share this news with all his shipmates.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate, Tom Mefford.

The following was posted on The Sea Devil FB Page by Shawn Green:

Good morning shipmates...I just heard from Tom Mefferd’s sister, Linda.  Tom has passed away.  I have no additional information at this time, I hope you all will join me in praying for his family.  RIP Tom...

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space. And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place. Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar. No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore." 

Hand Salute 

MMC(SS) Thomas D. Mefford...  Rest your oar. 

Ready, Two.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate, Paul Chapman.

I received this in an email from Sharon this afternoon:

I am writing this to make you aware of the untimely death of my husband 

Paul F. Chapman on October 31st.   

We frequently joined other Sea Devils for reunions.   

Please share the information with whomever you feel needs to know.   

He proudly was a submariner for 22 years.   

Thank you! 

Sharon Chapman

Please share the information. 

He will be buried at sea as the Navy determines.   Probably   a year from now! 

Thank you for your kind words.   

Sharon

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space. And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place. Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar. No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore." 

Hand Salute 

EM1(SS) Paul Chapman...  Rest your oar. 

Ready, Two.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Shipmate, Joe Kelley.

Thank You to James Walker for posting the following on the FB Page:

Brothers! 

I just got some sad news: One of our own has just joined eternal patrol. 

Joe Kelly passed away Sunday. I just got the news from his Wife, Julie. 

Anyone that remembers Joe recalls a witty guy who was quick with a joke, whether or not it was offensive,  but a guy that had your back as best as he could. 

Fair winds and following seas, Brother.

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space. And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place. Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar. No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore." 

Hand Salute 

STCS (SS) Joseph Kelley....  Rest your oar. 

Ready, Two.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

Frank Courtney CTR1(SS) { 'Rider' on board Sea Devil 1970}  has  passed away. 

Thank you Lew Bearden, for passing the word:

Francis David Courtney, II, “Frank”, passed away on December 13, 2020.

Born July 23, 1945 to Francis and Anne (Sturgis) in Washington, DC, his youth was spent on the Chesapeake Bay and firmly ingrained his lifelong love of the water and “simply messing about in boats.” He was a graduate of High Point High School and Upper Iowa University.

Frank enlisted in the Navy and rose to the rank of Master Chief, earning his Dolphins and serving aboard submarines including Greenling, Halibut and Sea Wolf. During his naval career as a cryptologist, he was one of the first assigned to work for NSA facilitating communications between HQ and the field in the pre-internet era. He was also involved in the infamous underwater cable tapping operation that took place during the Cold War and is detailed in the book Blind Man’s Bluff.

While in the service, Frank created and ran a soccer league on base in Rota, Spain, for both base and local children; the effort earned him recognition for furthering international relations. During his military service, Frank received commendations and medals including meritorious service, joint service commendations, Navy and unit commendation medals, a battle “E” ribbon, and expeditionary medals as well as the national defense service medal.

After retiring from the Navy in 1985, Frank resided in Severna Park and Annapolis, Maryland as well as Moncks Corner and Summerville, South Carolina. His work as a civilian for the defense contractor industry in program management roles would take him to the Charleston, SC area in 1998. Notably, he worked on the Y2K preparation for the Coast Guard. He retired from industry as a Regional Director for a defense contractor in 2016, and ultimately returned home to his beloved Chesapeake Bay in 2019, settling in St Michaels MD.

Frank and his wife Christine met in Annapolis and were married August 20, 1999. They enjoyed many trips together including Alaska, Hawaii, Italy, Spain, Grand Cayman and she even got him to go to New York City and admit that he loved it!

In addition to his family, Frank’s other loves included boats and fishing. He captained charters for years in addition to fishing many tournaments with his close group of friends, the Jack Tar Fishing Team. He was a lover of golf and famous for his homemade Bloody Marys on the course. Labrador Retrievers played a big part in his life, he and Chris adopted a wonderful lab named Chief recently who has been a source of great joy. He was also an avid genealogist and loved sharing his skill while doing research for others.

Frank was a past president of the Fleet Reserve Club, Annapolis; a member of the Miles River Yacht Club, the Masonic Lodge and the NCVA (National Cryptologic Veterans Association).

Frank spent the last 15 years battling various medical issues and winning. In the end, he simply ran out of ammunition, and succumbed to a blood infection with his wife at his bedside.

Frank is survived by his wife, Christine Courtney, of St. Michaels; his son, Francis D. Courtney, III, “Todd”, (Holly), of Severna Park; his daughter, Heather Courtney, of St. Michaels; his daughter, Adrienne Bishop, of Houston, TX; his step-daughter, Bianca Curti Sell, of Arnold, and seven grandchildren.

The inurnment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the Disabled American Veterans at the following link: https://secure.dav.org/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app30133a?df_id=18815&mfc_pref=T&18815.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=A215EFAF9E03962D4AA55268E71B7A0F 

Or to Hillsdale College "Pursuing Truth, Defending Liberty" https://secured.hillsdale.edu/

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

CTRCM (SS) Francis David Courtney II...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

George Boyle  has  passed away.  

Bill Hicks received the following email this morning from George's son Scott:

From: Scott Boyle 

Sent: Monday, February 8, 2021, 03:13:56 AM EST

Subject: One last Salute

Howdy,

Many of you may have noticed fewer emails lately. I’m sorry and saddened to tell you one of your friends is no longer with us. Some of you worked with him when he wore his uniform and some of you he met along the way and via the Sub Vets conventions.

Dad, George Boyle Sr., passed away recently. It is a great loss to us all.

If you would be so kind, please make a donation in Dad’s memory to the Boy Scouts of America at https://donations.scouting.org/#/national . He was very active with the Boy Scouts awards ceremonies representing Sub Vets.

There isn’t a date set yet for the funeral, but Family-Funeral in Pensacola
https://www.family-funeral.com/ will be coordinating his celebration of life and funeral.

Thank you,
Scott Boyle

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

EMCS (SS) George W. Boyle...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

Russ Penn has  passed away.  

James Spangler posted the following on the FB page this morning:

'It is with a heavy heart that my nephew Sam Guinaugh-Penn, and I make this post.  My brother Russ Penn passed away at his home in Arcanum, Ohio yesterday. Funeral arrangements are being made by Sam for Monday January 18 in Arcanum, Ohio. I will post funeral details tomorrow.'

https://www.kreitzerfuneralhome.com/obituary/George-Penn?fbclid=IwAR3UVIENgZeHHbWuKocsZeTW0FYW7FT9F4oBwg0VM-HQpobmoAypRe-pO7g

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

FTG2(SS) Russell Mike Penn ...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

Bob Porter has  passed away. 

Dennis 'Doc' Dougherty posted the following on the FB page:

It is with sadness I am reporting the passing on of a fellow shipmate Bob Porter, Nuc Electrician who was aboard the boat in the early 80's. Here is a link to his obituary. Fair winds and following seas brother, rest your oar, we have the watch now.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/.../robert-porter-9955069

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

EM2(SS) Robert Porter ...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

_____________________________________________________________________

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

Cole Lindell has  passed away. 

I received this email from Admiral Fountain earlier this afternoon:

Eddie, 

for info of the crew I have been informed of the death on 11/11/20 of CAPT (then LT) Colen Lindell, our ENG, down in South Carolina. He had suffered from multiple myeloma for some years. RRF

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

Capt. (LT) Colen Lindell ...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Commissioning Crew Shipmate.

Eric Carlson has  passed away.

David McDonald posted a note from Barbara Northrup, Eric's Sister-In-Law, 

on the Facebook Page:

"... Sadly, Eric passed away on October 20, 2020. Funeral Services will be at the gravest on November 10, 2020 at 1:00 pm at Glen Abbey Mortuary in Bonita, CA.

Eric is survived by his daighter, Mary Carlson; his granddaughter, Moly Vrooman; his brither Tony Carlson, a sister Karen and several neices and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Earl and Leona Carlson, his son, Christopher Carlson and his wife Elizabeth(Beth) Northrup Carlson. Eric and Beth were married from 1975 until 2017 when Beth passed away."

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

MM1 (SS) Eric E. Carlson  ...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate.

Thomas W. Stahl, Sr. passed away.

His son posted this on the Facebook Page:

"It is with great sadness that I inform you that my father, MM1 Thomas W. Stahl Sr, has passed away this morning. 

I thank each one of you that has kept us in your thoughts and prayers during these past few difficult weeks."

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

MM1 (SS) Thomas W. Stahl, Sr.  ...... Rest your oar.

Ready, Two.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

**** FLASH TRAFFIC ****

To All Sea Devil Crew Members

From Mickey Martin @ 1441 ~ 

**** Doug Blaha had a stroke ****

To All USS Virginia Base Members

I just spoke with member Richard Moore who told me that member Doug Blaha suffered a stroke earlier this week!

It is being reported that he had a 100% blockage between his neck and his brain while in Minnesota.

He was flown out from where he had the stroke by helicopter, and then flown back to Virginia.

He is now in “The Chesapeake” – a Senior Living Community in Newport News, VA while he recovers. Lila is with their son in Yorktown, VA.

There are some encouraging early signs that he will pull through this - such as his desire to continue with plans for he and Lila to be “Wagon Masters” for a “Virginia is for (History) Lovers” SMART RV caravan.

That sounds like the Doug I know!

Coincidently, today (June 22nd) is Doug’s 81st birthday!

We need to crank out prayers for Doug without delay – so as soon as you read this, stop whatever you were going to do today and pray that God will focus the healing power of the universe onto Doug Blaha,

casting out the effects of this vicious attack from him as far as the east is from the west, never more to return to him – and that he be quickly restored to perfect health and happiness – in the name of our living and soon returning Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Richard is going to be giving me an update later today, which I’ll pass along.

Greenboard/Straightboard and all the best!

Kenn

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Commissioning Crew Shipmate. 

Alfred W. Willis passed away.  

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.
Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute
TMC (SS) Alfred W. Willis ...... Rest your oar.
Ready, Two.

[ Obituary Posted on the Sea Devil Facebook Page by Scott Freyer ]

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate. 

Perry A. (Bear) Randall, 74, passed away unexpectedly  26 SEPT 2018  in Rhode Island.

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.
Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute
TMCM (SS) Perry Randall {Bear} ...... Rest your oar.
Ready, Two.

[ RE: email I received this evening from a friend of the family ]

It is my sad duty to inform you all of the passing of Sea Devil Commissioning Crew Supply Officer, 

{ LT } Robert H. Nichael. 

He passed away 26 FEB 2018.

https://m.legacy.com/obituaries/pilotonline/obituary.aspx?n=robert-nichael&pid=188335481&referrer=0&preview=True

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.
And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.
Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute
LT Nichael ...... Rest your oar.
Ready, Two.

SUBVETS GROTON BASE - ETERNAL PATROL NOTICE:

Shipmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of a Shipmate. Mickey Earl Davidson, 70, of Gales Ferry, CT passed away on December 14, 2017. 

He was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on February 22, 1947, the son of the late Oscar and Lillian Brunson Davidson. 

Mickey Joined the Navy in 1964 and retired from the Navy in 1989 as a CWO3. 

Mickey Qualified in Submarines on the USS Tusk (SS-426) in 1965. He also served on the USS Sea Devil (SSN-664), USS Hunley (AS-31) and USS Albuquerque (SSN-706). 

His interest in the Submarine Service was based on his viewing of the movie “Run Silent, Run Deep” while attending Fair Park High School.

His most memorable tours of duty or experiences were qualifying in submarines, 

shipping over North of the Arctic Circle, becoming both a Blue Nose and a Shellback, 

Transiting the Panama Canal as Helmsman, and achieving the rank of CW03. 

Mickey later worked as an Weapon’s Engineer at General Dynamics Electric Boat for 20 years. 

He was a life member of the U S. Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI) Groton Base; the Honor Detail. 

Mickey was extremely proud that he was a distinguished member of the USSVI Holland Club, 

an honor for those submariners that were "Qualified in Submarines" for 50 years or more. 

Mickey was married on June 27, 1970 in Woodbury, Connecticut to the former Charlotte Ann Burdick. 

Mickey’s other survivors include his son Lee Davidson and his wife Amy of Waterford, 

two daughters Kelly Ditmore of Groton, Amanda Ackley and her husband Gary of Griswold, 

and 9 Grandchildren Andrew, Alex, Olivia, Sarah, Emma, Isabella, Lila, Alanna, and Owen. 

Visiting hours will be held from 5 to 7 pm on Thursday December 21, 2017 at the Byles-Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames Street, Groton, CT

Graveside services with full military honors will be held at 11 am on Friday December 22, 2017 at the Avery-Stoddard Cemetery, Rt. 214 in Ledyard.

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.
And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place. Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute
CWO3 (SS) Mickey E. Davidson . . . Rest your oar. 

Ready Two !

[ RE: email I received this evening from Shipmate Mike Cohen ]

It is my sad duty to inform you all of the passing of Sea Devil Commissioning Crew Weapons Officer, 

{ LT } William H. Carson II. 

He passed away at home yesterday morning, 9 NOV 2017.

I will post information regarding funeral arrangements as it becomes available.

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.
And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.
Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute
LT Carson ...... Rest your oar.
Ready, Two.

Here is a link to the obituary:

http://m.legacy.com/obituaries/pilotonline/obituary.aspx?n=william-h-carson&pid=187199273&referrer=0&preview=True

RE: email received from Shipmate Paul Hiser  

                                                                         Fellow Shipmates,

                                                                         It is with a heavy heart that I report that USSVI Associate member Carol A. Boyle passed away on Saturday July 15th in Pensacola FL after a long fight battling COPD.

                                                                         Carol was an Associate Member of both Mobile Bay and Drum Bases as well as a past SubVettes officer.

                                                                         Carol will surely be missed by all or new and loved her.

                                                                         Our most sincere Condolences,Thoughts and Prayers go out to George his family and their friends.

                                                                         Sincerely,

                                                                         Les Altschuler

                                                                         Eastern North Region Director

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

David W. Sutter of Dubuque, Iowa | 1948 - 2017 | Obituary

http://www.hoffmannschneiderfuneralhomes.com/home/obituary/4146991

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

CS2 (SS) Dave Sutter ......   Rest your oar.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

3 March 2016an email sent to George Boyle:Mr. Boyle,It’s with sadness that I tell you that Mr. Charles W. Tahnk, my Uncle, passed away February 12th. I stumbled across a letter from you to Charles regarding the Sea Devil 664 & 400 shipmates.I will provide the information you requested.Name: Charles W. TahnkMailing address: 1308 Poppy Way, Antioch, CA 94509Email Address: (no longer active)Telephone Number: (no longer active)I don’t know what rank my Uncle Chuck was when he was part of the commissioning group but he was discharged as MM1.Thank you and I wish you the best.John Broos 

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

MM1 (SS) "Charlie" Tahnk ......   Rest your oar.

                          _________________________________________________________________________________________________

12 July 2015 

                                                                                                                                                                      Shipmates,

Captain RICHARD ANDREWS CURRIER, USN, Retired

Captain Currier passed away Thursday, July 9 2015 at Southeast Georgia Health System Camden Campus.

Services are incomplete and will be announced later.Allison Memorial Chapel and Funeral Home of St. Marys is in charge of arrangements.

"There is a port of no return, where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.

And then some starless night the cable slips, leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.

Gulls veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.

No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

Hand Salute

Captain Currier.... . . . Rest your oar, Sir.

Please keep Jim Schenk, our Vice-Commander and Chaplain, in your thoughts and prayers. 

He had a biopsy procedure on his lungs done at the VA Hospital in Salisbury, NC. 

Jim is back home and is resting. He won't be able to talk on the phone for a few days while he recuperates 

but I'm sure he would appreciate an email or 'Facebook Greeting'. 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Thomas "Mom" Hartley  MS2 (SS)

    USS Sea Devil SSN664    Feb. 1985 to Nov. 1987    Final patrol, Aug. 8, 2008

I am not a member of this crew but was on Subs back in the late 60’s into the 70’s. I ran into and made friends with Tom Hartley who Served on the USS Sea Devil SSN 664 from 1985 -1987 as a cook. Rate MS2 (SS). Nickname was MOM.
I regrettably have to say that he passed away on 8/5/08. It was sudden and I didn’t get a chance to see him before that.
Tom was a cook, still doing what he loved best, for us in our Cafeteria at Credit Suisse in Princeton, New Jersey. I know he went to a couple of reunions with you guys and had a great time.
I was trying to get him to join a SubVets group in the area as he lived in South Jersey but he just didn’t get that chance to do it.
I hope anyone that knew him could send me an email or add a guest book note as to your experiences with him. I am sure he would have loved that or even something in the Chaplain’s Corner.

thnx to all..... hope to hear from you soon... Ike     ike.cohen@net-lynx.com

John Francis Whelan 

Sept. 6, 2008

VIRGINIA BEACH , Va. – Captain John Whelan passed away September 6th, 2008 at his home. He was born in Whitman, Mass on December 29th, 1936 to John and Germaine Whelan.

He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher. Captain Whelan is survived by his wife, the former Mary Jane Sunday of Clearfield, PA, his sons Richard, John Daniel and wife Suzy of Virginia Beach, Steven and wife Vivian of Powells Point, NC and daughter in law Cathy Whelan of Virginia Beach . He leaves also his grandchildren, Andrew, Hope,