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OLD Reunion Hall Table for: USCGC Conifer On 03/08/08 smack said: Dude, I didn't know that was the match you attended. Please do send me pictures!! On 03/07/08 Bob Bell said: LOL, Coasties rule On 03/05/08 scott b ruete said: F... Off Bell:) On 03/05/08 Bob Bell said: Hey Scott, Beware of those 'fencing inspectors' and don't get arrested for fencing without a permit ! LOL On 03/04/08 scott b ruete said: It was awsome. I thought Brock had Mir's ass kicked. He came out and pounded Mir into the mat. But he kept up, standing and Mir got his ankle and it was over. He will be back. He is a big son of a bitch, just needs a little more ground and pound training. The people at the fight were amazing to watch. Lots of trophy chicks and crazy bands of wanna Bee's. I did get some phtos. Once I figure it out, I will send you some. Regards, Scott If anyone gets a chance to witness one of these events, I would take advantage of it. On 03/04/08 smack said: Ruete how was the ufc? I heard you were part of the tap out crew in vegas! On 03/03/08 scott b ruete said: sorry my spelling suck ass On 03/03/08 scott b ruete said: Did they set the buoy using three point sextant angles with a boot ensign at the Conn? Tank God ffo the QM on the helm, eh? On 02/06/08 Rick Insco said: Never mind the painting of the bouy. They didn't have anyone using a wire wheel to remove all the seagull and pelican droppings. Oh, to hop off the top of the bouy with your face covered in seagull shit. On 02/05/08 Brian Bieltiz said: That's right Bob...the team that wanted it more won! Hats off to the New York(Jersey) Giants! On 02/03/08 Bob Bell said: The New JERSEY Giants win. Way to go big BLUE ! On 02/01/08 smack said: That's my Retroman!! On 01/31/08 Retroman said: Perhaps the most rewarding job of my entire life. Gave rise to the 'retro hypothesis,' which states as follows: the time required to replace/service the reflective numbers and letters on a buoy is directly proportional to the amount of time it takes to do the painting , scraping, etc. Maybe the best, skate buoy deck job of all time. On 01/30/08 smack said: Didn't paint the bouy!! Doesn't anybody take pride in their work anymore? I never remember us not painting any of our bouys and our retro (and retro man) was just awesome! On 01/30/08 Wooly said: The Human Genome. Internet. End [mostly] of the Cold War. All these developments since our Conifer days, and the only thing new on the buoy deck are pneumatic scrapers and gripes. Please........................ On 01/30/08 Brian Bielitz said: Although I never scraped a bouy, I did notice that our guys on the Conifer had 'human powered' scrapers, and I also was disappointed that the crew on this boat let the bouy go back over without new paint! On 01/30/08 Dennis Holland said: They didn't paint it at all. They should have had him and one crewman sitting on the bouy in rough seas doing maint. on it. Remember that ? On 01/30/08 Bob Bell said: Air powered scraper ? No bottom paint? On 01/29/08 Dennis Holland said: How about needle gunning rust in lower #1 hole On 01/28/08 smack said: Do you think they'll sugie running rust on the way back to port after working numerous bouys thru the night? On 01/28/08 Wooly said: It's not going to be a legit, ocean going buoy tender program unless we get to see copious amounts of spew footage. Hopefully on the WINDWARD side so we can watch their humiliation from the blow back. On 01/26/08 Bob Bell said: How about hanging upside down in a bosn's chair under the flying bridge wing chipping paint with a frigging chipping hammer? On 01/25/08 smack said: I wanna see a young boot get initiated with a pink belly by spiderman and captain cave man. Then finishing it up with a shovel full of bouy critters down the seat of Boot Allens pants! That was too damn funny!! On 01/25/08 Dennis Holland said: I wanna see mail bouy watch and pick belly On 01/25/08 Wooly said: Oh, that's just TOO rich. I also want to see some half asleep bastad trying to relieve the QMOW for the 4-8 sea watch. On 01/25/08 Dennis Holland said: The previews showed a heat and beat and crawling up the tube. On 01/24/08 Rick Insco said: I sure hope they show a heat and beat. I also want to see some little Clay Sharpe crawling up the tube of a 9x32 scraping critters. On 01/24/08 Bob Bell said: Maybe some smart a$$ QM refleting sunlight in a deckies eyes ? On 01/24/08 smack said: Do you think they'll do a heat&beat? On 01/24/08 Rick Insco said: I have my TIVO set to record. I want to show my kids what great, exciting, stimulating, fun... jobs I have done. On 01/23/08 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys, On Tuesday Jan. 29th, the Discovery channel show Dirty Jobs will be doing a show on a bouy tender out of Oregon. I saw the previews and boy that work hasn't changed. On 01/23/08 smack phearson said: Wooly, Wish you would stop by sometime on your way to see your aunt so you could see how the poor people live. On 01/23/08 Brian K Bielitz said: Going with the Giants as well - I am for the underdog as well! On 01/22/08 scott b ruete said: Gotta go with the NGC Giants on this one. I am getting a little sick of the Brady bunch. They need to go down!! I will be in Vegas for Super Bowl, hammered in some casino or strip club. Probably the latter:) On 01/22/08 CWO (Med) Ret Jim Bailey said: I went aboard as an HM2 when the Connie came to Portsmouth in exchange for the Jonquil . Any of the olod crew give me a shout Jim B. On 01/22/08 llwoolardjr@copper.net said: Eli Manning's been hammered in the press most of this season, and I'm always a sucker for an underdog, so I guess we need to get on the Giant's bandwagon with Tink. If you're going to have a Super Bowl party lem'me know, and I'll see if I can drag my @ss over to whatever county you're located. On 01/21/08 smack said: Wooly, who we gonna pull for now? On 01/21/08 Bob Bell said: Who would of thought Big Blue going to the superbowl ? On 01/16/08 Smack said: I like the Chargers since Rivers was at NC State. Looking forward to seeing NE lose for once this year. maybe? On 01/14/08 Wooly said: Dennis: Your boy Romo's got too much Jessica Simpson on the brain. I'm still liking my Packers for a bowl appearance, but Pats are going to be tough to beat. Would have loved to have seen Manning v. Manning in the big game, but the Chargers nipped that possible match-up. Wonder if two brother, QB's have ever faced each other in a Superbowl? On 01/13/08 Dennis Holland said: HOMO ROMO does it two years in a row. At least he is consistant. On 01/13/08 scott b ruete said: Wooly, I am all in with the Packers. Good luck. Hey, does anyone know who won the Giants s Cowboys?? On 01/10/08 Wooly said: To my Redskin shipmates: Fear not, my Packers will avenge your loss when the Seahawks visit the frozen tundra of LAMBEAU. Favre & co. may not make it to the Super Bowel, but they'll surely dispatch that turncoat Holmgren & crew. On 01/05/08 scott b ruete said: Dennis & Brian, I wish you both luck in the run for the Bowl. We gave it a try today, but the cards are not in our favor. I will still accept the two cocktails from each of you. Best of luck!! Regards, Scott On 01/05/08 Brian Bielitz said: Dennis, why would you hang your head in shame? It was only ONE game! Sorry Scott, but you will not need to go to Dallas next week! On 01/05/08 Dennis Holland said: I hang my head in shame for the loss against the Redskins. I really would have thought our second string boys could have won that game. On 01/04/08 scott b ruete said: Belit & Holland, I will be grilling up some Seahawk Wings for tomorrow's game. I know you both wish the Redskin's Luck and I appreciate it. Hope all is well with you guys. I hope we see you again next weekend. Regards, Scott On 01/04/08 Joe Vizcaino said: Does anyone know what happened to Delacruz? I believe he was on the Conifer from 92-94ish. Anyway, last I heard he was in Hawaii. If anyone knows of him send an email please. On 01/04/08 Bob Bell said: CDR Dann, If you reach out for Jeff Loftus he may have a few of the decom books available. His e mail is somewhere in this forum. On 01/02/08 scott b ruete said: Brian, Brian, Brian, It is so nice to hear from you. Maybe I forgot that you wouldn't call unless you were winning. You didn't. 21 points, just like Sean Taylor's number. Coincidence? I don't think so. We lost in Seattle two years ago, I was there, it sucked. I sure hope that it dosen't happen again. I am just happy to say that my team, as well as yours, is still in the hunt. should be a good play off picture. Usually at this time of the year I am looking for a second or third team to root for. Hope all is well with you. Regards, Scott On 01/02/08 Brian K Bielitz said: Scott, Scott, Scott! I believe that I said I would call whenever the Cowboys were leading, I do not remember that ever being the case! And it was the next morning that I found out you had called after 11pm - by this time I had been under the covers for at least one hour - sound asleep. The next day I spent on my bike on a very long ride. So, here it is. The Cowboys ________(you fill in the blank)! I am sure that you and your buddies had a GREAT time at the game, of course you were still 'all wet'. I don't believe that the Cowboys and 'Skins will be playing against each other again this year (Seattle will beat you) so your trip to Dallas will not happen! And if by some miracle you and the 'Skins do go to Dallas this year, be sure to wear your colors - they like you down there!!!!! I can't wait to by you your drink! On 01/01/08 scott b ruete said: Dearest Brian and Dennis, My phone was waiting for all the calls I was supposed to gt on Redkin's night. What happened??? 1 yard total rushing? That is a stat to be proud of. I will accept my cocktails from each of you at our next meeting. It was an awsome game, espcially for me and my buddies. Good luck to you guys in the next round. If we take out Seattle this week then we meet you again in dallas. We may be going to the game. Can I bring you back something?? Tears maybe$&$&*(^())&^% Hope everyone had a safe New Years Eve. Regards, Scott On 12/31/07 Brian Bielitz said: Ouch! Smack! How would you know this? On 12/31/07 CDR Tom Dann (RET) said: Served on the Conifer out of OCS from 67-68. How can I get a copy of the Conifer's history? On 12/28/07 scott b ruete said: Oh yeah, Happy New Year to all of my shipmates! Scott On 12/28/07 scott b ruete said: Dennis, The Cowboy Tickets have gone. If the Cowboys bleed red or blue, that is the color that the field will be on this sunday. Would you care to bet a cocktail of choice on the game? You too Belitz. I will be available on my cell phone 301-252-1634 if you need a shoulder to cry on. Best of luck fellows. Regards, Scott On 12/27/07 Dennis Holland said: Yeah, I heard that even though our east coast has experienced a water shortage this year, the Redskins field is still green due to the large amount of tears shed this year. The grass is also in good shape in the end zones, cause they can't seem to make it that far. On 12/27/07 Brian Bielitz said: Hey all! Hope you all have a SAFE New Year's Eve. I talked with Scott last night and he seems pretty confident that the Redskins are going to kick some Cowboy butt this Sunday...but I don't think so! Dennis, there is nothing better than to see a Redskin fan cry in person (I work with several of them) and everytime the Skins lose I wait for them to come to work. I dont say anything - just give them 'the look'...and they just bow their heads and go on by!!! Again, have a safe holiday. Good luck Sunday Scott!!!! On 12/26/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys, I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to big new year. Ruete...Sorry to hear you so bitter, but I guess if I were a Redskin fan, I would be too. Hey you still got extra tickets you wanna sell? Give me a call, or e-mail. It would be fun to watch a real Redskin fan cry in person at their home field. On 12/23/07 BoB Bell said: Hey to all my Conifer shipmates. Hope you have a Very Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year. 20 Months left to the next reunion ! On 12/19/07 scott b ruete said: Bielitz, Cowboys suck Ass!!! TO is a punk ass bitch. Jessica Simpson has black roots. Jerry Jones needs another facial tuck. You have had a good season though. I have extra tickets to the Dec. 30th game here if you want to bring your butt up for a visit. Regards, Scott On 12/17/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Hey Scott! The Cowboys may have lost, but they are in the playoffs! I guess there is still a slight chance the Redskins can make the playoffs......oh, did I mention they clinched the division? On 12/16/07 scott b ruete said: Hail to the Redskins!! Merry Christmas to all of you and your families. I am off to Vegas in Feb. for the American Fence Accosiation. I will get to attend the UFC fight on Feb. 1st at the Mandalay Bay. Should be fun. Regards, Scott On 12/15/07 Frank Campbell said: Merry Christmas to all my shipmates...1973-1974 SN Frank Campbell On 12/04/07 cliff said: YO Wooly , one thing they can say bro , when the bouy gang spewed , we did it with class and kept on pulling chain . On 12/04/07 Brian Bielitz said: ...and a Merry Christmas to you as well Scott! I probably will be visiting the Leesburg, VA area around Christmas time...I WILL give you a call dude! On 12/03/07 scott b ruete said: Merry Christmas to all this year. Great to re-unite with all of you. Anyone visiting the MD area (Belitz?) please do no thesitate to call me. Me cas su casa. Regards, Scott Ruete 301-252-1634 On 11/29/07 Wooly said: Yo Cliff, seeing those words put me right back on the buoy deck. Guess I'll need to spew now, but at least I know to do so on the leeward side. On 11/29/07 cliff sears said: JUST REMEMBER... IF you needed a wife , a life , or child , they would have issued you one of each at boot camp , Now quit yor bitchen and --- TURN TWO--- On 11/27/07 Bob Bell said: Made me think, if this is how they choose to treat 'their own' What chance do we have' Truth is you have to understand operational needs. He understood. I did not On 11/22/07 Wooly said: Hey Tink! Are you kidding me? I was pretty much hating the Guard at that point in my life, especially being at the bottom of the food chain as a young boot. I always liked Mr. Boyd, and had I known he was getting hosed like that, I'd have been an even bigger FTG guy. Must have been a Mr. Buckaloo (sp?) thing. On 11/22/07 BoB Bell said: Wolly during reftra Mr Boyd's wife gave birth to his oldest daughter. He was denied leave to go home. I took him out and got real drunk. We all hated the CG then. On 11/21/07 Wooly said: Have an apropos Thanksgiving, 'Fid story: I reported aboard in early Nov. '79. We were still in the Yard@Curtis Bay. I believe we departed for Little Creek on Thanksgiving eve or day. I distinctly recall turkey being served on the mess deck, and I think we were still enroute. I don't remember blowing chunks that time, so the 'bay must have been cooperative. Not so while we were doing REFTRA during the next three weeks. On 11/20/07 Brian Bielitz said: Hoping you and your families have a great Thanksgiving and Christmas. On 11/15/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys!!! Been a little absent myself. No good excuse, just a little busy. Hard to believe it's been almost 2 months. Well that just means only 22 more til we do it again, right !!! Hope everyones pics turned out good. I've caught myself looking back at them a couple of times. Still can't believe I got my hat back after all these years. What a great story that is. Hey Wooly, Smack, KW, Brian and any of you other guys that are close. We still need to get up with Ligon and plan us a night. I know the holidays may make things a little crazy, but hey, I'm good with January. On 11/14/07 Wooly said: No worry Rosco. I'll get that disk in person when I fly out there 2011...should have enough $$ saved by then. On 11/13/07 baby guns said: No one ever accused me of being quiet before, I've had a bit of a computer problem, but like a bad penney I always show up. Any and all you bouey critters are always welcome at Cassa Rougeux if you are ever passing through the Daytona beach area. Golf and drinks are on me. On 11/12/07 Rick Insco said: I'm still around. Wooly, I still owe you a CD. I just need to burn it. On 11/07/07 Wooly Woolard said: Wooly's still in the house. If Rach and I go by the 'Tav this weekend, we'll hoist a couple in ya'lls honor. Maybe Squash will comp me. On 11/07/07 Brian Bielitz said: Scott is right! This place sure got quiet after the reunion. On 11/05/07 scott b ruete said: Hey you punks, How about staying online and communicating with all those great people you hooked up with via Dennis????? I am ready for another reunion even if it is just a local one. Let's all stay in touch! Scott On 10/30/07 Bob Bell said: Rick, Thank the bride for the CD rom for me. That was very thoughtful. On 10/15/07 scott b ruete said: Mrs. Insco, Thanks for the CD of the party, I am getting ready to look at it tonight. Regards, Scott On 10/01/07 JR said: Dennis, I wanted to thank you for setting up the BASH @ Beach Tavern, what fun it was seeing all the people from one of the greatest crews I had the pleasure of serving with, let's do it again. Scott, I could come up with alot of excuses, but why, YOU are the man, I reserve the right to a re-match in the near future, take care, and that goes to all you guys. If anyone comes to Key West, remember, you got a pretty good connection, after all I Rule this little Island. God Bless America and all you crazy Black Hull Coasties. JR Surprise BM1,Ret, USCG On 09/29/07 scott b ruete said: Hey you bunch of yahoos! What a great time seeing all of you again. I am ready for the next one. If anyone has photos (I did not have a camera), please send tem to me via emal at sruete@msn.com or mail them to me at Scott Ruete 24409 Galeano Way Damascus, MD 20872. If anyone is near my home, you are welcome to stop in and stay the night. Please call me in advance 301-252-1634. JR, sorry I 'kicked you ass' in pool, I still love you man. Wait, I didn't loose all night:) KW, you should be arrested just for being there with all that Tequilia in your bike. You are truely a nut bag. Thanks for the shots. Dennis, you are the man for putting this whole thing together. I would be happy to help in the next outing. Anything I can do. Take care all. Regards, Scott On 09/28/07 Cliff said: Hello to all, WOW it was real good to see everyone. just got back from AB last night .talked to JR today ,his pool cue showed up Monday at the BT. Sorry about your helment KW .Dennis , hats off to you what great job by you Yoeman Bob and Brian Lets do it again. Cliff On 09/28/07 Bob Bell said: Guys,Just wanted to say it was great to see you all last weekend down in AB. Dennis you did a great job setting it up. I send Bravo Zulu ! On 09/25/07 Dennis said: Rick, It was great to meet put a face with the legend. You and your wife were wonderful. I was glad to see that she survived the reunion . There were some close calls. Stay in touch pal. On 09/24/07 Rick Insco said: I (my wife) took a lot of photos. If anyone wants a disc with them e-mail me with your address and I will be happy to send you one. Let me know . On 09/24/07 Rick Insco said: I loved seeing all of you guys again. It was a blast catching up and re-living all those old stories. I was telling my wife on the drive out that in the past, when we left an assignment there really wasn't a great way to keep in touch. But now we have cell phones and e-mail addresses so I am looking forward to keeping in touch with all of you. And I too am looking forward to the next reunion. Dennis, you're the man for setting this up. On 09/24/07 Dennis said: KW, Were you able to get your helmet before getting a ticket? Hey the wife and I are in Chesapeake every couple of months. Have to try and catch up sometime. Yes, It was Riggs. See ya next time around pal. On 09/24/07 Brian B said: K.W. and Mark - you guys are only a short distance away 60 miles (or so)! As K.W. said, 'it may be sooner than you think' when the three of us get together. Had a great time this weekend and am absolutely looking forward to '9/19/2009' (unofficial date of course). On 09/24/07 K.W. said: I had the BEST time seeing everybody again and will be looking forward to the next time. For those that are close or near some of my favorite destinations, 'the next time' may be sooner than you think. The R restuarant was Riggs. They did have great pizzas and steaks. I looked in the phonebook while there with sadly no luck. On 09/24/07 Dennis said: Brian B. it was good to see ya. Honestly, I couldn't put a face with the name until I saw ya. Gotta keep in mind that you are close by as well. On 09/24/07 Brian B said: It was great seeing the guys that I worked with and meeting the ones that were there before me. Like Wooly said, 2009 (Sep 19?) is not that far away. There was mention of a possible pig roast at the next reunion - so I'll follow up on that. Two years will give us plenty of time to continue searching for the ones we could not locate this year. Keep in touch guys! Pass around the photos! On 09/24/07 Wooly said: Dennis: Yea, I hated not being able to get in sooner on Fri night for the pre-game action. I'll be talking with MacPhearson this week. Will see it we can't arrange a little redux gig. Still some good wx left in the fall, so maybe I can talk him in to bringing the boat back down one more time before the ice buoys go out. On 09/24/07 Dennis said: Wooly, It was great to see ya man. Wasn't it great to hear and tell all the old stories. Not to mention try to figure out who was who. Hey it would be great to get together. If we can plan it right, maybe we can get Ligon and Smack there too. We are all close. On 09/24/07 Wooly said: Dennis: We must have been composing our postings simultaneously. You lucky SOB: Denise is Hot and Young. Anywho, I've got some vacation coming up in the next few months, and I'll coordinate with you for a get together. I'll drive my Kia...so Denise won't get any ideas. On 09/24/07 Wooly said: To all our Conifer bretheren who couldn't attend this past weekend: you missed one for the ages. It was as if someone had waived a buoy deck sledge--and poof--the past 25+ years just vanished. So many great stories retold, immemorable moments relived. AND if that wasn't enough, KW and I buried the chipping hammer once and for all. Fear not though brothers, for 2009 is not far off, and we'll do it up even bigger next go 'round. In then mean time, my phone(s) and e-mail are always open. On 09/24/07 Dennis Holland said: WOW!!!! What a great time the reunion was. So great to see all you guys. Who would have thought we would have this many of us back in Beach Tavern. Thanks to all you guys for a great time and some great old stories. Stay in touch!!!!!!!! Don't forget all these new connections that have been made. On 09/21/07 Hilde said: Don't forget Clawsons in Beaufort as a potential place to eat/drink this weekend http://clawsonsrestaurant.com/ On 09/20/07 smack said: Scott I saw your picture on the 911 ride. Dude I would have never recognized you. You're still pretty though! On 09/19/07 scott b ruete said: I'm having a Rel's Chi and Slaw Cheeseburger. I stopped into that dump two years ago on my motorcyle and it was still awesome. Can't wait to see you all. Scott On 09/19/07 Wooly said: Haven't eaten there myself, but the consenus is: 'A Taste of Italy,' 4466 Arendell St., tel-252-222-0166. Out on Hwy 70 as you're coming into town. Kinda pricey but very authentic. If you're on the beach, 'Channel Marker,' is right at the foot of the AB Bridge. I scrubbed dishes and burnt a few, too, when I was working there during college. A perennial favorite. On 09/19/07 Brian said: I do remember that restuarant! On 09/19/07 Dennis said: Remember the little resturant that was over on a back street in Morehead. It was a family run place that was ran right out of a house. Seems like it started with an R. The pizza there was great. I'm sure it is no longer around. On 09/19/07 Brian B said: Hey Wooly! In just a couple of days the old crew will be back together! Is Atlantic Beach ready? Are there any good italian restuarants in Atlantic Beach or Morehead City? On 09/19/07 smack said: Hey Carmean, Since Dale Jr. is no longer in the chase have you reconsidered going to the reunion? On 09/19/07 smack said: Can't wait to see you Wooly. I'll be easy to recognize look for the guy with the 372lb. wife, I'll be sporting a major combover and false teeth. and possibly a thong with no trim work in a while. On 09/19/07 Larry said: Gentlemen, we are on the precipice of a monumental event. Mad props in advance to everyone who has committed to journeying from afar to take part. If I can provide assistance and 'local knowledge,' don't hesitate to holler. 252-398-4174 (W), 252-396-1814 (C) & 252-223-2372 (H). Safe travels to all. On 09/18/07 SS3 Rubalcaba said: I served on her with Rudy Angst, Reid Crispino, Sheila Briggs, Kim Alford, and my man Gomer. Has anyone heard from Gomer out there? Reid, Rudy we had some great times, I have to smile when I think about you crazy cats On 09/16/07 scott said: I have gone on a 911 motorcyle ride from the Pentagon to the WTC 's since the year that it happened. Go to americas911ride.org and go to the photo gallery, 2001 and you will see me 50' from the base of the last piece of standing tower. I am the skin head in the middle. Cannot wait to see all of you guys. I'll be there on Friday evening and my cell phone is 301-252-1634. Regards, Scott Ruete, QM2 Retired On 09/16/07 Bob Bell said: I'll be at the Peppertree as well. I expect to get into town about 6PM Friday On 09/16/07 Rich Rougeux said: Mark Mellon and I will be at the Peppertree Villas, (386) 804-1095 On 09/15/07 John Hildebrandt said: John Hildebrandt (252)917-3448 New e-mail: jkhildebrandt@netzero.net On 09/15/07 Rick Insco said: Sorry, forgot mine. Rick Insco (559) 289-6056 On 09/15/07 Dennis Holland said: Dennis Holland (919)602-5537 On 09/14/07 Brian Bielitz said: Brian Bielitz 757-574-6779. See ya'll next week! On 09/14/07 Bob Bell said: Bob Bell 732-267-4337 On 09/14/07 Rick Insco said: How about we exchange cell numbers so we can contact each other upon arrival in Atlantic Beach. On 09/14/07 Dennis said: I thought that was what you were Smack!!! On 09/14/07 MacphearsOn said: Can I invite some exotic dancers to our gig? On 09/11/07 Bob Bell said: On 9/11 one of the Port Authority Police Officers that died trying to evacuate people from the South Tower was Jim Lynch. He was a friend of mine and a PS3 at Manasquan Inlet CG Station. Please keep him and all the others in your thoughts today. On 09/11/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey can you all believe it , we're a little over a week away. Take a moment today and say a prayer for our 9/11 victims. Thanks!!!! On 09/04/07 Dennis Holland said: Yes, You can buy liquor there. On 09/04/07 Bob Bell said: Does anyone remember if you can buy hard liquor at a bar? Or should I bring my own Irish Whiskey? On 09/03/07 smack said: Hey Rick, Thats Great!!! On 08/31/07 Rick Insco said: I just bought tickets and reserved a hotel room so I guess I'm confirmed. Looking forward to seeing everyone. On 08/31/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys! We've got 25 confirmed. I've sent out another request for confirmations. So check you e-mails and if you notice some one not on the list, start e-mailing and calling them and lets get those numbers up. Yes Wooly, I remember the Paradise Alley. You know I still get conned into painting for beer!!!! On 08/27/07 Wooly Woolard said: Dennis you must recall 'Paradise Alley.' That was another Stallone movie Bob loved, and I remember we stenciled that name at the foot of the isle where our racks were grouped in main berthing. Don't know if we used anything out of the paint locker to paint that room at Moms', but at least she paid us in beer... coin of the realm of my 20's. Hey, and make sure those shirts got an alligator on 'em somewhere. On 08/27/07 Brian said: Dennis - I will look into the t-shirts for you and get back with you in a couple of days. On 08/26/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey Wooly!!! Sitting around the station tonight. I watched the 'Rocky Balboa' movie. Made me think of Bob. I remember painting a couple of rooms at your Mom's house, then me, you and Bob sat around and watched Rocky on the TV. He loved those movies. Hope you had a good weekend in Morehead. On 08/26/07 Dennis said: Anyone know any T-shirt makers? On 08/26/07 Dennis said: Maybe we could talk to Squash about having a pig cooked and some 'fix ins' in his parking lot, then just migrate inside. Or another idea, It would be great to have a pig pickin at the CG base. Problem would be who would cook it. On 08/26/07 smack said: Another con: What if it rains 9/22/07? On 08/26/07 smack said: Sounds good to me Brian. The pros would be: It would be easier to move around to mingle and talk with my long lost Conifer buddies in the open rather than in a resturant or such, possibly play some beach volley ball. The cons: would be no a/c, flies,oh I forgot, if we have it like, at the state park we can wear our thongs to keep the flies out of our faces! On 08/25/07 Brian Bielitz said: Dennis, I read your email the other day and just sent out a response. Would it not be easier to through together a cookout at a local beach or park? No money down, etc, etc, etc. Just a thought! On 08/24/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys, check your e-mails. Need some input on the reunion. On 08/23/07 cliff sears said: Yea, bud I will never forget the phone rang at my dads house at 1 AM. We knew it was either my brother calling from Italy or the conifer. Guess who? Later in my brothers career with the army Rangers he was paralyzed in the Grenada invasion . I do wish we could turn back the time as well I would be glad to spend a year u/w with you bro.. On 08/22/07 Wooly Woolard said: Cliff, that would have had to been -X-mas 1980. Bobby Ricketts--God rest his soul--and I were hanging out that night, and when we returned to the ship in the wee hours of the a.m., the recall was already going down. If I could we could get Bob and those twenty-seven years back, I'd gladly spend a year u/w...but not with this 47 yr. old bod. Ouch. On 08/21/07 cliff sears said: Hi Bob , I have a couple of pictures from our christmas day voyage to get the sailing vessle Shanondoa , I will have some copys made. Boy sure wish they had Sea Tow back then . Insted they had towing service CGC Conifer . but I guess they needed it. On 08/21/07 Bob Bell said: If you can, bring copies of any pictures you have to give to a shipmate. I'm sure you will be happy to get same On 08/15/07 smack said: JR , high torque, great gas miliage, this don't sound like comfort to me!! On 08/15/07 Hilde said: Just booked a room at the Amerisuites for 9/21 to 9/23. It looked like there were a couple more rooms open - maybe someone cancelled. On 08/15/07 Brian said: Hey JR and Dennis - McIntosh was from the Boone, NC area. I remember because him, Obie and I went up to his family's home one weekend - talk about small towns! On 08/15/07 JR said: Dennis, I have no idea where McIntosh was from. Richie Rich, all u said is true but u forgot 2 mention the high torque I get from the rear end, what a ride. Smack, I'll tell u all about what a guy he is in my eyes, sounds kinda queer don't it? Billy good 2 c u in print, hope u make it to the reunion. On 08/14/07 Billy Mullen said: I serived on conifer twice . em3,em2 70-72 and em1,emc 78-80. great ship and i had some super times. can anyone tell me if they know where en1 ron harbor 70-73 migth be? On 08/14/07 smack said: In reference to Claudia. When I was younger I used to like a woman built for speed (about 125lbs) like a corvette. Now that I'm in my 40's I'm all about comfort like a coupe-de-ville (300+lbs). NOW THAT'S COMFORT!! On 08/14/07 smack said: Hey Dennis, McIntosh used to talk about waterskiing on Lake Norman. So I'm betting he was from somewhere around Charlotte. Hey, JR what did Kevin do for you that was so WONDERFUL ? Or should I ask? On 08/14/07 Richie Rich said: Yo John, Yes I would say that you up graded to a better model. I know you are getting good miliage, a better ride, superior dependability and great bumpers to. Sorry Philly. I am counting the days till 9/22. See you then On 08/14/07 Dennis Holland said: JR , Do you remember where Kevin was from? On 08/14/07 JR said: Just wondering if anyone has heard from or knows the whereabouts of SN Kevin McIntosh. I don't think he realizes what a wonderful thing he did for me and I would really like to thank him. I hope he can make it to the reunion. Boy I'll tell u after reading all about yankee boot and Claudia, I can't believe how long it has been, but am looking so forward to 9/22. Scott you better Chalk it up I am coming after u. On 08/12/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey, Derrick. My name is Dennis Holland. I was on the Conifer from 80 to 81. My self and a few others are setting up a reunion for The crew from late 70's to early 80's. You are certainly welcome. Shoot me an e-mail and I'll give you a few details. On 08/10/07 Derrick Aalderts said: Hi folks! Im Derrick Aalderts fromerly SMN Aalderts on the Conifer from 89-91. I saw the word 'reunion' and Im wondering what it's about?? I'd be interested in attending... my email address is dja00719@aol.com! Thanks... On 08/09/07 cliff said: yea , I wil be there for sure, can't wait to see everyone and catch up on the last 25 years. Boy it sure does fly by.. On 08/09/07 Dennis said: Hey Sears, Need a confirmation from you. You gonna make it to the reunion? You gotta place down there, don't ya. You gotta come! On 08/09/07 cliff sears said: Yea , You can say , , Claudia you have been Recalled for BOOTY DUTY . HEAD DOWN BUTT UP SHUT UP.. On 08/09/07 Dennis said: Do I need to try and find Claudia??? On 08/09/07 Dennis Holland said: Still need a confirmation e-mail from some of you all about attending the reunion. Check your e-mails and see if I have your name on the list. If not and your are coming, please e-mail me. Only a little over one month to go!!!!!! On 08/07/07 scott said: I think that Claudia was that big fat pig with a good phone voice. Boot Allen and the other Boot, I forget his name were all over her. On 08/06/07 cliff said: Hey Yo , didn't Boot Alen used to date a girl named Claudia ? She looked like a 12700 lb sinker with blonde hair .. On 08/06/07 Dennis said: Not sure if Claudia was the name of who I'm thinking of, but remember a girl that used to call the quarter deck shack during mid watch and talk to anyone there. On 08/05/07 MacPhearsOn said: Hey Scott Ruete, Didn't you used to date a girl from Beaufort named Claudia during the early 80's? Seems like I remember her calling the quarter deck shack asking for you? Maybe? maybe not? On 08/03/07 scott ruete said: How many people do we have so far? Scott On 08/03/07 Bob Bell said: Great link to find people www.anywho.com On 08/03/07 Harl Hockeborn said: I believe Harry Harrison was actually from Tilghman Island, MD. Kent Pruitt was from Tangier Island, VA. On 07/30/07 smack phearsOn said: Does anyone know how to get in contact with then FA Harry Harrison? tangier island maybe? On 07/28/07 Joe Lybrand said: Things like that never happened till I hung with dudes from the FID. Well, I'll take that back. Things like that happened often hanging with Macphearson. Tell Harry he still owes me a rear view mirror... On 07/27/07 MacphearsOn said: Hey Joe Lybrand, Hope you do attend the reunion. Do you remember crashing your car at little creek? and Harry Harrison breaking your mirror with his face? On 07/26/07 Bob Bell said: Hey Ruete, didn't you go by Frank Campbell years ago? ROFLMAO On 07/26/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey, Harl, You think you might be interested in the reunion? Would you and Organ mind if I added you to the mass e-mail list i have for the rest of the guys. This would give you access to about 30 other shipmates and them to you. Joe Lybrand, even though you were on the Chilula, you are welcome to join us for the reunion. If interested let me know. On 07/26/07 Dennis Holland said: I have looked for Joe. Didn't have any luck. I remember he was from the Portsmouth, Virginia Beach area. On 07/26/07 Joe Lybrand said: Joe Gay!!? Did someone mention the name Joe Gay? I have a picture of Joe holding some contraband. Anyone wanna guess who was sitting next to him at the time in the back seat of my car? I was on the chilula and I remember vividly how someone got the name 'Smack' On 07/25/07 scott b ruete said: run frank willard campbell jr, run!! On 07/25/07 Rhetta said: In or around 1973 -1974 I met a young man and we dated for several years...unfortunetly we ended our relationship and lost contact...i would love to find him ..his name is Frank Willard Campbell Jr. I am looking to find someone who may know him...he was on the conifer..i hope i spelled that right...if you know him please send me his address...i just want to say hi....my email is 'emorigrace@yahoo.com...He was stationed in Norfolk Va for quiet awhile...thanks...please respond if you know him or anything about his where abouts now a days...God bless On 07/25/07 Bob Bell said: Harl. Do you have any other info on David Williamson? Like middle initial,DOB,what town he lived in etc? On 07/20/07 Harl Hockeborn said: Hey Brian, I happened to think of another name. David (Boo Boo) Williamson from NJ. He was MK3. I think he was on Conifer as well as Gentian. On 07/19/07 Phil Organ said: Hello Brian. I'm doing good. I retired from the CG in 1989. I retired aboard CGC Gentian with Mike McNiff as CO! I will sure try to make the reunion. I moved to Asheville last year. Before I retired (second time) from the civilian world I used to see Brian Wade on a regular basis. Remember the Portsmouth 'Ford F-150 suspension test' performed by Brian and friends on the railroad tracks! On 07/19/07 Brian K Bielitz (SK2) said: Mr. Phil Organ! Welcome to the site. How have you been? Will we see you at the reunion in September? On 07/18/07 Phil Organ said: I remember the sinking barge and floating train car incident during REFTRA. Mostly because I climbed aboard the sinking barge to look at a P250 pump, and the ship sailed away without me! I remember getting a lift back to the ship on a tug boat. Great ship...greater crew. On 07/18/07 D Dowdee said: Jr my wife is like your's she wants to see all the people my sea stories are about. you guys drink the beer I need a stiff drink! On 07/16/07 smack said: Oh Yea, While I was at AB. I learned that there is gonna be a super boat grand prix at the morehead city waterfront and a Civil War re-enactment at Fort Macon on 9/21-9/23. I don't know, but I think the boat race may be in the turning basin/harbor. People attending these events may be snagging up the hotel rooms? So don't wait too late to book a room!!Is Joe Gay gonna be there? On 07/15/07 Krista said: Does anyone know Gary Armstrong and how he is doing? It's been year's since I've talked to him and have lost touch. On 07/14/07 smack said: Does anyboy remember FA Novak he left the fid for the Icebreaker Westwind when it was in Wilmington, NC. His first name, where he was from, etc. On 07/13/07 Brian said: Okay, enough about the thong...I just may go get a beer! On 07/13/07 Dennis said: Bob Naylor, wrote to me and is trying to set up a tour of the ELM(the bouy tender at Fort Macon now) maybe even a short harbor cruise. Apparently he has some contacts. Maybe he could some parking lot time. On 07/13/07 Dennis Holland said: Trust me, you don't want to see me in a thong, I think I have grey hair back there. Nice mental picture huh? I need another beer!!! On 07/13/07 Brian K Bielitz said: John Surprise! How the heck are you dude? Reading all these messages makes me look back and picture everybody from the Conifer...it be interesting to see how we have/have not changed! What are the chances that Base Fort Macon (anybody have any contacts at the Base?) would allow us to use the parking lot for volleyball and maybe some grillin' in the afternoon before we go to the infamous Beach Tavern? Just a thought. Looking forward to 9/22. If I drank, I'd need a beer right now! On 07/13/07 smack said: JR, Ya'll misunderstood me. I don't want to see him in a thong. I just don't want any flies in my face or my beer. Looking forward to seeing you guys and gals. My 372lbs. wife said she may wear her thong but, I'm afraid that Squash may not have a bar stool heavy duty enough for her to park on(we don't want to embarass a 372lb woman). Belive me!!! On 07/13/07 JR said: Smack, how long has it been since you have seen Dennis, r u sure u want 2 c him n a thong? Also I'm looking forward to a good game of volleyball, to bad we can't find a nice HOT piece of black-top to play on, then we would be home. By the way my wife will also be in attendance, so watch your f*&%ing mouths, actually, she feels like she knows some of u guys already from listening to me tell stories, she can't wait, me neither. I'm with Dennis, I need a beer. On 07/13/07 Dennis Holland said: My wife will be there. She wants to see the faces associated with the stories. On 07/12/07 Bob Bell said: Rick, I asked my wife and she said ' Yeah, Like I want to hang out with your drunken Coastie buddies' NOT On 07/12/07 Dennis Holland said: Smack!!!!! No need for a thong. I go the flies taken care of....... your moms coming right!!!!!! On 07/12/07 Rick Insco said: I thought we were going to listen to Zappa. 'Crew slut, hey I love it'. For beach music I'll bring my Platters CD. Hey by the way, my wife wants to know if this is primarily for the guys or should/can significant others (a politically correct California term) attend?? On 07/12/07 smack said: Hey Dennis, If we play volleyball, Are you gonna wear a Thong Bottom? It's a good way to keep flies out of your drink and face!!! On 07/12/07 Dennis Holland said: Some Springstien, Born to run. Some Styx, Grand Illusion. Some Beach Music (for Wooly) I need a beer!!!!! On 07/12/07 macphearsOn said: Can I bring my Frank Zappa tapes?....Oh..that's right, I forgot I don't have anything to play 8-tracks on anymore. On 07/11/07 Wooly McWillard said: Yo, Rosco Rick! I got your e-amil this past weekend, but haven't had access to my account lately. I'll send you a tome this weekend. On 07/11/07 Rick Insco said: Yeah, I cleared my schedule and plan on coming. And that would be great if you add me the the mass e-mail list. On 07/11/07 Dennis Holland said: Rick, does this mean, you may be considering coming in? That would be great! Hey would you mind me adding you to the mass e-mail list I have put together? On 07/11/07 smack said: Rick, RDU is the nearest big airport. About 140 miles from A.B. Hwy 70 from Raleigh would take you into A.B.(no turns) On 07/10/07 Rick Insco said: I'll have to fly in from California. Where is the nearest big airport to Atlantic Beach? On 07/10/07 Baby Guns said: Smack, count me in on that volleyball action. I have found some old photo's that I plan to bring to this shin-dig. As far as stories from back in the day, I know that we all have them etched into our minds and once we all get a little bit of liquid courage in us, they will flow like the Cape Fear River. See you all in Sept. On 07/10/07 smack said: I noticed a couple of volleyball nets set up on the beach near the circle. I can take a volleyball with me. Deck force vs Snipes! Unless y'all are scared?? Any takers?? On 07/09/07 Rick Insco said: I think Clay Sharpe was from New Mexico On 07/09/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Hey Smack: They are Clay Sharpe (he loved his fishing!), Chris Davis, and you are right , it was Art Davis. I'll have to start looking for these folks as well. Not sure where Sharpe and Art Davis were from, but Chris Davis was from somewhere in NC On 07/08/07 scott b ruete said: Dennis, I am up for anything. I think everyone should bring something relating to thier time on the Conifer, photos, artifacts, what ever. And, we should all bring a story to tell. I am amazed that the internet has allowed all of us the privledge of re-uniting people who were all best of friends so many years ago and that it was a huge part of all of our lives. Oh yeah, I think we should drink alott! Surprise, bring your best pool game. Actually, we played so well together that we will offer a challange to 'anyone' who dares:) Partners. Scott On 07/08/07 smack said: Hey Belitz, what about SA Sharpe(a small guy that loved to fish), SA Davis (I think he left the fid for ET school) and wasn't there a guy named BM Art Davis? On 07/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Just read an article that showed Chappell retiring with 26 years in 2006. Still looking!!!!! On 07/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Just spoke with Chet Sergent, he's down in Florida. Look forward to seeing him in here. On 07/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys, still trying for Chappell. Not having much luck. I did leave a message for Chet Sargent in Ft. Myers, FLA, today. Got to be the one. I'll let you all know. Also Spoke with Jack Olivers wife yesterday. She is gonna have Jack give me a call. On 07/07/07 Brian Bielitz said: Rick - glad to see you received my message! The lady who took my calls was very cordial - I sensed that she could not do enough for anybody, she was very helpful and friendly. Take care of her! I read recently that Jesse Chappell retired in 1995 as a YNC. Hope you can make to the reunion. Hey Smack - thanks for the info on the hotels. On 07/07/07 Rick Insco said: Another guy would be Jesse Chappel. He was from Mobile Alabama. He was still a yoeman in the CG stationed in Alameda CA when I got out in '86 On 07/07/07 Rick Insco said: 'Roscoe Rick' I forgot about that. Nope don't have the Porsche anymore. I don't think it even made it to the end of my Coast Guard days. This is cracking me up, Smack, Wooly, JR Surprise, KW, Rich Rougeux,Cliff... I just might have to try and clear my schedule to make it out there. Another guy people could try and look up Chet Sargent. He and I left the Conifer the same day to go to BM school. He was from Fort Meyers Florida I think. On 07/07/07 smack pearsOn said: Hey, Rick Insco (roscoe rick) Do you still have that bad ass green porsche that we left on radio island only to return the next day to find it trashed? what a bunch of turds!! I just returned from AB. Squash ,hasn't shrunk a bit. I've got four hotels, 3 in crawling distance 1 in staggering distance. Island Inn would require the least crawling (252)726-3780. PepperTree is next(252)247-5841 or 247-2011?. Across the road from PepperTree is Palm Suites (252)247-6400. And within Staggering distance is Hollowells (252)726-5227. Hope this helps. On 07/07/07 Rick Insco said: Wow, reading this was like a blast from the past. I don't think I can make a reunion in September but I would sure like to catch up with some of you. Still have a pic of Smack and myself on deck in Baltimore with baseball bats knocking off ice. On 07/06/07 Brian Bielitz said: Hey Jack! Are you still working on the trains at Busch Gardens? On 07/05/07 Jack Nesbitt said: I have the 15 pages of former crew members address book. Served on her twice 68/69 then came back to avoid a white one 73/75. I did go to the decommissioning in san pedro in 2000. Jack Nesbitt Newport News,Va On 07/05/07 Dennis Holland said: Scott, right now the plan is to meet at Beach Tavern the evening of the 22nd. Smack Pearson is down at AB this week and is going to visit Beach Tavern and talk with Squash about us meeting there. Currently there are no plans for food before hand. I'll know more after Smack calls after his visit. Maybe Squash may be willing to host some sort of feed at the tavern. Do any of you all have any ideas? On 07/04/07 scott said: dennis, what plans do you have for AB? What do you need anyone to do?? Blah Blah Blah Are we going to be at the Tavern? On 07/04/07 george heintz said: Dennis absolutely would like to be added can't guarantee I can make the reunion email list, but definitely interested regards I think I can also get an address for Dave Hill he is retired and living in ct will try to pass it along On 07/03/07 Dennis Holland said: Good going Brian!!! Way to follow up. Can't wait to hear how it goes with Insco. On 07/03/07 Dennis Holland said: Mr. Heintz, Great to have you on board. I was just surfing around the net for Conifer stuff and other names and came upon your site. So, you interested in the reunion in Sept? Would you mind being added to the e-mail list. About 25 or so of the old crew on it. I can also keep ya posted on reunion info. On 07/03/07 Brian said: Good to hear from you Mr. Heintz! Do you remember the bicycle rides with the group from Elizabeth City - Dan Rocko, and the others? Keep in touch Captain. On 07/03/07 George Heintz said: Just got a message from Brian Bielitz and browsed through the trail of messages here. Lots of familiar names and memories. Appreciate being added to the listing. I still remember looking down over the brow in our dry dock in Portsmouth the day I left for flight school and realizing that the folks who carried me aboard probably weren't much soberer than I was. Thank for not dropping me. Definitely some great memories. On 07/03/07 Brian said: Thanks to a tip from Dennis, I have called and left a brief message for Captain George Heintz, Commanding Officer Air Station Sacramento. I will touch base with him again next week. On 07/03/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Hey Dennis! Hope all is well. Don't know if you found Richard Insco yet, but check out this site: www.childrenscentralcal.org and then look up Insco, Richard. Surely that is Insco from the Conifer! On 07/02/07 JR said: Well it's looking like there is enough people coming to the reunion that we should set SPECIAL SEA DETAIL. I am so stoked about seeing you guys again I can't stand it, what fun this is going to be. Scott, I will have my poison pen (AKA pool cue) with me, but be kind, alot of years have gone by, I may not be as good as I once was, but I'm good once as I ever was. Now lets raise our glasses once again for THE crew of the USCGC Conifer. On 07/01/07 scott b ruete said: I have reserved a suite at the Sheraton from Friday Thru Sunday. If anyone is coming early or staying late, you are welcome to party there. I may have Claude and Todd T. as roomates. They have two pools and a beach balcony view. I look forward to seeing everyone. JR Suprise, prepare to loose at pool from your grasshopper. You trained me. Regards, Scott Ruete 301-252-1634 Cell sruete@msn.com On 06/30/07 Wooly McWillard said: McPhearson: I think John's went the way of the dinosaur: too much freakin' privitization and development our our/my beloved Atlantic Beach. Think the 'Show Boat' is still in biz, on the causeway. Look forward to hookin' up with you and Tammy this week. I'll see if I can get my 'jewel'--and I mean that in the worst way--Renken of mine waterborn. If nothing else, I can make like a faux high roller on that Wellcraft ya-chet of yours. On 06/29/07 Garry PearsOn said: Hey Wooly, Is 'John's Hotel' still in business? On 06/29/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Thanks Bob and Garry! On 06/29/07 Garry PearsOn said: I'm gonna be in Atlantic Beach all next week. I'll look around for some hotels close to the B.T. When I return I'll post them on here also. On 06/29/07 Bob Bell said: Here is the link to the place I'm staying at. I google Earth'ed it and I think I can crawl there FROM the BT. http://peppertreeatlanticbeach.com/ On 06/29/07 Bob Bell said: Done On 06/29/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Bob- Can you send me the info as well? Thanks! On 06/29/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis, I sent Ruete the info where I'm staying. CRAWLING distance to the BT On 06/29/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey if any of you all have ideas of places to stay in close proximity to the bar, e-mail Scott Ruete and let him know. I'm am not that familiar Atlantic beach anymore. On 06/26/07 garry pearsOn said: Hey Carmean, We love you alot more than Dale Jr. and we look better too!! On 06/26/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Garry - Give me Todd Carmean's phone number! He can't miss this reunion! On 06/25/07 garry pearsOn said: Hey, Cliff I'm pumped up about this reunion. It's gonna be great to see all y'all!! I just got off the phone with Todd Carmean he's doing great up in Delaware. He has a conflict with our schedule being (a big nascar fan) and they are racing near his hometown on Sept. 23 unless Bielitz can talk him out of it!!! On 06/25/07 Brian K Bielitz said: You are right Garry. John Surprise and I had gone to Yorktown for the day and when we returned the Conifer was underway - going to round up rail cars in the Chesapeake Bay. My friend was stationed at Little Creek so they gave us a ride out there the next morning. Ah! - the memories! On 06/25/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Hey Garry. It is Ted Connelly, but don't remember where he was from. On 06/25/07 cliff sears said: YO Smack, whats going on On 06/24/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Man, this is going to be a great reunion - the Beach Tavern will never be the same. Dennis, you are doing a great job. Can you send me Todd's phone number - I would like to call him as well. On 06/24/07 Dennis Holland said: I've had a difficult time finding Obie. I've called a lot of numbers in the mid-west area and had no luck. I remember him being from Indiana. On 06/24/07 garry pearsOn said: I can remember Oberholtzer now playing Alices Restaurant on the mess deck while he was cooking chow. He was the king of Alices Restaurant!! On 06/24/07 Dennis Holland said: I appreciate the help guys!!! I just left another message with Todd Carmean and one with a David Morgan in GA. I'll let you all know how it goes ! On 06/24/07 cliff said: I talked to Jerry Spencer last night . he is going to look for a roster for the FID . I will lsee him this week and maybe we can get some more names . On 06/24/07 Garry PearsOn said: I think Sasquatche's real name was Jeffery Smith but I'm not sure. He always wanted to be called Sasquache. On 06/24/07 Garry (smack) PearsOn said: Hey, Dennis I'll call Todd Carmean. You sure are good at this!! Will you look for David Morgan? He was from around Marietta, GA. Does anybody remember Connelly (Ted I think MK3), & Tiki Hall (MK3)? On 06/23/07 cliff sears said: what about Kevin Oberholtzer , May he still remembers how to Cook that Underway lasagne , On 06/23/07 Dennis Holland said: What is Sasquatche's real name.?I want to call and talk to him about the event . Hey I found Todd Carmean. I spoke to his wife and she was going to relay the message. It's been a couple of days.He likely doesn't know me. Who out sthere knew him well enough, that he would recognize them if they called. I'll pass the number to whoever would like to attempt a call. Also O'toole wrote and is onboard. On 06/22/07 Garry (smack) PearsOn said: Brian I remember that! Some of the rail cars had brand new Ford trucks on them. The steering broke on the tug, the rudder went to full and crashed into the barge knocking all of the train cars in to the bay. I think a couple of people died in this accident. We were concerned about the train cars drifting into the nearby tunnel. Is Sasquatch gonna be prepared for all of this, it could get very emotional on 9/22 !!! On 06/22/07 Brian K Bielitz said: This is great! I opened up my email today and saw one from Scott Ruete and one from Mike McNiff. Ah, the memories of those days!It is going to be a great day in September when we can all get together and talk about the days on the Conifer! Do ya'll remember when the Conifer was in Little Creek and had to go chasing down railroad cars that broke loose while crossing the bay on a barge during a storm? I remember that we were trying to flood the tank cars and pushing the others toward the beach. On 06/18/07 Bob Bell said: Here is an interesting link http://www.coastguardchannel.com/CGC/index.shtml On 06/14/07 Dennis Holland said: Gary, If you are ever gonna be in Knightdale/Raleigh area give me a call. We'll meet for lunch and talk about Conifid days. On 06/14/07 Dennis Holland said: Great to have you here Gary. I'll see what I can do about locating some of these guys. Great job with the names. If you are going to need a place to stay for the reunion, you may want to start looking. Places are booking up fast. On 06/14/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Garry- great job with the names! Paul Cummaford was from the New Englnad area (I believe). Todd Carmean is from (Seaford), Delaware, Jesse Chappell from either Mississippi or Alabama. All we can do is get on the internet and start hunting them down. On 06/14/07 Garry PearsOn said: I wanted to let Harry Harrison, David Morgan, Richard Inscoe, Jesse Chapelle, Gary White, Alvin Huffman, Todd Carmean, Ronnie Barkwell, Stevie Stevenson, FA Ledbedder? QM Cummaford? FA Novak, know about the reunion. Does anybody know how to contact any of these guys? On 06/14/07 john manmiller said: was on this one to.looking for richard morton,freddie willis,frank applegate,{954} 989-7852 On 06/13/07 Dennis Holland said: Just got off the phone with Gary Pearson. He's alive and doing well here in NC. That's one more!!!! On 06/13/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey Claude!!!, Glad to have ya onboard. This thing is going well. Any people you happen to contact, please try and get an e-mail address and I'll add them to the contact list, so that I can keep them updated on the reunion stuff, since not everyone gets on here. Get your room booked. They are going quick for that weekend. On 06/13/07 Claude McKernan said: Dennis, great job getting, and keeping this ball rolling. It has been lottsa fun reading everyone's posts. Todd, Scott; great to hear from you brothers. Scott; how is your elbow? Count me in for the get together. It's maybe a 2.5 hour drive. Unless Tinker comes down and we go in The Beast, then it would be an hour, max. Hey, who was the guy that had that great convertible red challanger? I have left a message fro Paul Culver. He's a civilian working at the 7th Dist in Miami. I will also get in touch with Bob McKinna. Also.... Doug McBroom was living in Morehead CIty as of 2000. He was working for Town Creek Marina as an electrician. How about Ervin Boone? Ah yes, the good ol days; breaking ice and working Madrona's buoys all winter. Alright then. See you at the Tavern! On 06/12/07 Dennis Holland said: Good going Bob!!!! Thanks for your help. Did he give you an e-mail we can add to the list. Also what about Nadeau? Also, I'm having trouble finding Gary Pearson(SmackPhearson) All I know is he was from the Wilson NC area. On 06/12/07 Bob Bell said: Found another one. I heard from Tony Farr who is retiring 22JUN after 30 (God help us all) years. He said he'd love to come. On 06/11/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey, what was 'Sasquatch's' real name. I thought I might call him at Beach Tavern and invite him and make mention that we might invade his place in Sept. On 06/11/07 Dennis Holland said: Wow, what's going on that weekend. Maybe just the rumor of our group being there is drawing a crowd. lol On 06/11/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis; I booked at the Peppertree villas in AB 21-23 Sep On 06/11/07 Bob Bell said: To All; If you are looking for hotel reservations. Book NOW. AmeriSuites in Atlantic Beach is booked solid fo 22 Sep On 06/11/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey, Just spoke with Mike Mcniff. He's down in Beaufort and is onboard for the reunion. Hopefully we'll see him here soon.. Bob, thanks for your help on this. Did you call Nadeau? I'll be happy to do it, if you need me too. On 06/11/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis, I tried to call Tony Farr. As yet no response so I just shot him an e mail. Will advise if I hear from him. On 06/11/07 Dennis Holland said: Two new names on the board this morning. Great to hear from you guys. The list keeps getting longer. Mark and John, I'll send you guys an updated e-mail list for all the guys we've found. Keep posting!!!! On 06/11/07 John Hildebrandt said: John (Hildabroom) Hildebrandt - I'll be there ... currently living right up the road in Greenville, NC On 06/10/07 Mark MellOn said: Mark Mellon will be in the house. Will be good to see some old friends. I,m very busy with with work now but I'll check in from time to time. Also to J R Supprise I want my 'magazine' picture of me you and Rich back so make some coppies and bring it along talk to you latter. On 06/09/07 Dennis Holland said: Bob, We'll be going down on Friday Sept. 21 and leaving on the 23rd. I have to work on the 24th. On 06/09/07 Rich Rougeux said: No Tink, I ment Yeomen Bob (Naylor), predecessor to Yeomen Jesse. He posted the question earlier. My mind just takes a little kick start these days. New names that have popped into the old mind, Sn Eddy Wiely, MKCS Merchant, and what's his name, SN from Tangier Island??? Harry Harrison maybe?? How about SK1 Sease?? On 06/09/07 Bob Bell said: Baby Guns, Do you mean QM Bob instead of Yeoman? On 06/09/07 Rich Rougeux said: Message to Yomen Bob, The name of the bar in Southport was the Whittlers Inn. I however would be safer not showing my face in that town. Thats where the throng of she-males that mobed the pier with shouts of 'we want Baby Guns' came from. I'm too old and married to revisit my fan club! On 06/08/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis; What days did you book? I plan on staying a few days down there to unwind and relax. On 06/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Just booked at the AmeriSuites myself. Prices were much better than Sheraton. Hey Beach Tavern has been brought up by a couple of guys. I had originally mentioned Beaufort. It really is not that important to me. If the group wants to we can all get together on a place. What are everyones thoughts? On 06/08/07 Bob Bell said: Found it, I was confusing it with a place called the beef and keg. On 06/08/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis, I can remember Clawsons but Beach Tavern is fuzzy. Exactly where is it? On 06/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Bob, also try AmeriSuites. It is just a couple of miles from the Beach Tavern. Nice looking place and about half the price of Sheraton. I think we should all just plan on staying with Cliff Sears. He apparently has a place within staggering distance.LOL On 06/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Sheraton Atlantic Beach, is nice, at bit pricey. There are several smaller ones in the area if you look on line. We rarely go to AB. When we did, we stayed at Sheraton. Thanks for your help looking up the guys. I placed several calls last night , left some messages, some I got no answer and some were not the person. Dead end night. On 06/08/07 Bob Bell said: Does anyone know of a decent motel to make reservations at for our re-union? On 06/07/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey Dowdee, Great to have you on board. I remembered you being from Durham. I remember taking you home once. Wow that was a long time ago wasn't it. I,ve got quite a list of people planning on being at the reunion. I'll email it to ya. Lot of names from the past in here, enjoy reading. On 06/07/07 David Dowdee said: Dennis great to hear from all the crew on the Fid, just looking at all who have jumped on board.hope to be there on Sept 22. Not to far from you I'm in Durham at the Post office last 20 years. On 06/07/07 John Surprise said: Scott, what is goin on, I can't wait to see each and everyone of u MF's, it is going to be a great time. To this day i constantly tell stories of the times onboard Conifer, some people find it hard to believe that anyone in the service could have had as much fun as we all did, but we definitley worked 4 that fun. Rich, I believe you got a AS in BS, I can see all those loyal fans wainting on the pier for 'Baby Guns'. I can't believe I'll be seeing u guys soon, looking sooo forward 2 it. On 06/06/07 Rich Rougeux said: Go ahead and bring it Wooly, I have a colection of Gator gear now also. I got my A.S. in agronomy from the University of Florida. Home of the National Champs in everything lately. Now, where did I put my Drifters 8-track? I just thought of a few more names that might ring a few bells. How about Jack Nash, Lonnie Carter, John Hildebrand, Ens Franchini, Jack Oliver, Tom Bunch? On 06/06/07 Wooly Woolard said: Rich, didn't you have that screamin' B210 or the like. Datsun's ruled!! I still have fond memories of my Z-car. I think my green Izod ended up in the sound-powered phone box on the fantail. You ran me around the 'Fid with ransom notes for about two weeks. Think you made me swear to never wear it on the boat again, or something like that. Make book, I will be sporting a vintage gator at the reunion....just for you Baby Guns!! On 06/06/07 Rich Rougeux said: Oh Yea! I do remember my anti-prepie/anti -beach music shag like a fag days. It was just too much for an old school rocker like me. Over the years I have mellowed a little. Hey Wooly, remember, 'Nobody demands more for his Datson than .............? On 06/06/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Okay, here is another name. HM3 or 2 Gregory 'Doc' Fant - was the corpsman onboard when we went to REFTRA at Little Creek. I remember Buckalew (XO prior to McNiff) On 06/06/07 cliff sears said: Yes , i will never forget Bob, We called him Rolly . He always carried his share of the load and more.. Remember when he would buy deckforce sodas when he missed the chainstopper with the sledge hammer to let it go. those were the days . I think he was the one that gave the conifer the nickname The FID . Yes he will be missed. Does anyone remember how to get up with his old buddy and mentor Chuck Sloan. On 06/06/07 Wooly Woolard said: I'm sitting in my office at work. On the wall is a color 8 X 10. Pictured from left to right are: Dale Charette, Scott Ruete, Jzm Jim Ligon, KW, yours truly, and Bobby Ricketts. Circa May '80 at the Ft. Macon bath house/beach. What a keg party that day. Bob was truely a unique individual, and when Dennis told me of his untimely passing, a part of me died too, though I had not heard or talked to him since the day we took him to the airport/bus in the summer of '81 when he separated. The world is a lesser place without him. On 06/06/07 Dennis Holland said: Ricketts was a great guy. He and I had an incredible adventure driving from Cedar Island, to Ocracoke, up through Hatteras and all the way up through Kitty Hawk and back down inland, back to the base. He is definitley missed. We'll have to toast a beer and play a little Springstein in his honor at the reunion. Rougeux, I just remembered a story. Remember when you kidnapped Larry Woolards IZOD shirt and held it for ransom. You left notes all around for him to find. On 06/05/07 Bob Bell said: I too am saddened by the passing of Bobby Ricketts. I remember being 'STRANDED' on a Bell Buoy off of Cape Lookout with Bobby. While we on the buoy the sea increased. He was a pukin big time. But he never whined. A true Coastie with a lot of heart. The 55 ANT boat came to pick us up. He was a faithful brother among us On 06/05/07 scott b ruete said: I had the privledge to speak with Tolaski, Bell, McKernan, Charette in the past couple of days. I am saddened by the lost of Bob Rickets, that sucks. JR Surprise, I need to hear from you soon. this is amazing and again I thank Kevin Holland for the foot work. I will be there in September by hook or by crook, as long as I am not dead by then. Regards, Scott Ruete On 06/05/07 Dennis Holland said: Yes, his name was Merkle. I don't recall a first name though. Guns, thanks for all the names. I'll see what I can do. I just got off the phone with K.W. Goodwin. He's doing well up in Virginia. He's in for the reunion. On 06/05/07 Bob Bell said: BG you have a great memory. I had written down who was on the Fid when we were in the yards in Curtis Bay. Wish I could find that notebook. Was the new ENS that came aboard right before I left named Merkel? On 06/05/07 Baby Guns said: Mike 'Buzz' Bolton, Kenny Giles, Joe Gay (Va.), Dave Prill, Ralph Raez(Philipenes), Jay Boyd (officer) Noley Harvel (BMC), BM1 Ted Cotton (old School) James McBroom (GM3) WW Doughty, SN Boone (NC), Glen Furnish (fishman), Rotobaugh (ss) GUy Buckalew (XO) Do these names jog any memories? On 06/05/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Doug Vaughan (SS3) (from Tennesse), Kevin Oberholtzer (SNSS) (somewhere around Indiana) Thomas (Tom) Russell from Long Island, and he drove a green Ford Truck. Mike McNiff I believe is still in NC (Beaufort). Ens Steve Hicks from upstate New York. Ens David Hill (real tall - always had to duck through the passageways). Jack Fowler (SK) was my replacement in October 1982. Jesse Chappel (Yeoman) from Alabama or Mississippi. LCDR E. F. Labuda replaced R. F. O'Toole...hopes this helps some. I'll try to remember more. Thanks for all your efforts Dennis! On 06/05/07 Dennis Holland said: Anyone have any connections with the Guard still and can perhaps get a roster from 80ish ? On 06/05/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey guys, I know we are still missing quite a few. Help me come up with some names. And I need full names. It's been a long time and I can't remember alot of the full names. All ranks as well. Thanks!!! On 06/04/07 Dennis holland said: Guns, I see you up there in the boom shack with your spidey mask!!! On 06/04/07 Baby Guns said: Attention on Deck, carry on, smokem if you got'em, I'll be in the area all day. Weapons Department all present and accounted for. Glad to see this thing rolling. Scott and Dale I have some old photos of us when you guys were part of my wedding. You sould recieve an award for a job well done because Diane and I are still at it 'he'ing and 'she'ing. Dale, thanks again for letting me use your Mustang to leave wedding, I hope you got all the rice and shoe polish off. I will get the 'shark' on line soon. Cliff, Yoman Bob, welcome aboard. On 06/04/07 cliff sears said: Yes thats what we called him during the Mcniff era On 06/04/07 Dennis Holland said: Got a first name for Russel? I remember him, he drove an older white ford pick-up didn't he? I haven't found Gary yet, and wasn't his name McPhearson? On 06/04/07 cliff sears said: I don't ,but how about Russle he was an EM. Also what about Gary Pearson .. he was from Greenville NC On 06/04/07 Dennis Holland said: Anyone have a clue on K.W. Goodwin? On 06/04/07 cliff sears said: Hi Rougeux ,Ill never forget when you met me in New York when I was going to ATON school and you were in gunnersmate C school . You showed me all around the big apple . WOW it sure was a blast . And I would have never dreamed it would be the last time I saw the twin towers. On 06/04/07 cliff sears said: GREETINGS GUYS , It's so good to see all the names read your post . I do hope everyone is doing well. I hope to see you all in sept. Does anyone know how to get in touch with our left coast brother Claude Mckurnin I think he was from Monteray California On 06/04/07 Dennis Holland said: Morning Guys! Great to see all the activity this morning. Over the weekend I was able to locate Brian Wade, Dale Charette, Jerry Specncer, Clifford Sears, and Scott Ruete. Hopefully we'll see them here soon. I found Chuck Clark on Classmates.com. He even has a picture on the site. I e- mailed him through Classmates and hopefully will hear back soon. I'll check back in later and see what's buzzing!!! Oh and Talasky wrote and has spoke with McKernan and sent me all his contact info. He's down in Southport. He's close enogh for the get together. On 06/04/07 Bob Bell said: I think the MK1 everyone is trying to remember is Chuck Clark. Black Van, Hot GF etc. I think he was from Baltimore. On 06/04/07 Brian Bielitz said: Dennis, Dale's last name is Charette, and wasn't he from around Goldsboro (near Johnson Air Force Base)? On 06/04/07 Bob Bell said: Scott Ruete! OMG thought you fell of the face of the earth. Lets see who we missing? Claude, Ugly Doughety and Carlin......... On 06/04/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Scott Ruete! How are you doing? I remember the day you came back with your tattoo! Good to see your name on this site - hope to see you in September. On 06/04/07 Dennis Holland said: Wasn't the guy who drove the old black vette, named Clark? I remember that snow. March 1st 1980. I was back in Raleigh and got called in. They told me the ship would be leaving in 2 hours. On a good day it took 3. This time it took 6. I got to the base, Conifer was gone and you couldn't see a single car in the parking lot, they were all covered in snow. On 06/03/07 scottruete said: ok, i have now read all of the comments about the conifer. she wa truley the greatest ship to serve on. i will never forget that one time 3' foot snow in NC's history and we were have a spaghetti pary at some MK's house named Chuck. He rode a harley and drove a very old vette. but had a hot girlfriend. we all had to make our way back to the conifer thru all that freaking snow to go out on SAR dutie. this combined with many other in valuable stories make the Conifer a huge part of my life. We may have bitched back then, but now I have raised two son's and gone thru hell and high water, Conifer was a good time. Scott On 06/03/07 scott b ruete said: spoke with todd talsky tonight for the first time in 26 or so years. it is like finding old friends agian and I think it is grreat. anyone who would like to contact me is welcome to do so. regards, scott On 06/03/07 scott b ruete said: dale, i would love tohear from you. can you make the reunion? bob bell, who would have ever thought that you would leave the Jersey area. Still got that blck boat charger of your? On 06/03/07 Dennis Holland said: I'm getting good at this!!!! Just spoke with Dale Charette. Hope to see ya in here soon Dale. On 06/03/07 Dennis Holland said: Thanks Ruete, I'll start in that area. I had forgot he was a Carolina boy. You'll likely to see lots of posting in here tomorrow. Usually quiet on weekends. On 06/03/07 scott b ruete said: Dale was an electricians mate and lived near greensboro nc jr surprise, where are you?????? On 06/03/07 Dennis Holland said: Anyone know anything about Dale Chareet? Or atleast proper spelling. I'll begin a search, wish me luck! Scott that was a nice car he drove. On 06/03/07 scott b ruete said: hey guys, this is scott ruete QM2 back in the day On 06/03/07 Dennis Holland said: Gang plank is getting full !!! Just spoke with Brian Wade, can't wait to see him here!!!! Great talking to ya Brian! On 06/03/07 Dennis Holland said: All hands, stand by on deck...Scott Ruete is on board. Hope to see him here soon. Great to hear from you Scott. On 06/02/07 Dennis Holland said: Wow Bob, You settled along way from big water. There were some good times weren't they. I rember some of you all trying to surf on the weak little waves at AB. We are looking at Sept 22nd right now and possibly the old 'Beach Tavern' . Remember that place? It would be a long trip for ya, but would be great to have you there. Keep posting, this place has turned into a pretty fun place lately. On 06/02/07 Bob Naylor said: Hi Dennis: I'm in Glendale, Arizona, (I can somewhat remember what an ocean looks like) and Tom Bunch is nearby in Tempe, AZ. I visited with him a couple of years ago. PLEASE do add me to the 'big email list' for a possible reunion. Shocked and saddened to read that Slim Cantrell and Bob Ricketts have passed the bar apparently. We're going to need Claude McKernan if we're going to do this right. I remember riding with McKernan and Talasky in Todd's blue Ford Ranchero from Portsmouth to Morehead for the weekend, drinking cheap wine all the way and eating convenience store tacos. Good times, good times. Anyone remember 'tropical hours' and heading to the beach for some surfing after work? On 06/02/07 Dennis Holland said: Great to hear from ya! This is begining to work into somthing pretty big!!! Where are you at now? I'll put you on the big e-mail list if you like and include you on all the updates. Not much posting here on weekends. It'll pick back up on Monday. On 06/02/07 Bob Naylor said: On a complete lark, I happened onto Fred's Place, looked up CONIFER, and there you guys are ... almost 30-years later! Alright, this sounds like trouble; but, if there's going to be CONIFER reunion, Yeoman Bob is 'IN'. Suggested locations: Atlantic Beach, or what was the name of that bar in Southport, NC?, or let's go Louisana where CONIFER is today (now MV Hope). I have Mr. Norman's email address somewhere, same for Doc Hallauer's, and Tom Bunch. All the best to you lads. On 06/02/07 Dennis Holland said: Found another !!!!! Spoke with Cliff Sears. He's on board for the reunion, He actually has a place within staggering distance of Beach Tavern. So if we can't drive, we'll all stay with him. LOL. Great to hear from you Cliff. Can't wait to see you on here. On 06/02/07 Dennis Holland said: Just spoke with Jerry 'Spence' Spencer. Sounds like he's onboard for our gathering. Hope to see him on here soon. On 06/01/07 Wooly Woolard said: Rich: N.L. 'Slim' Cantrell passed in 2005. I found out about it on a Sun. evening and took the next day off (during the week I'm 3 hrs. from Carteret Co.) to attend the funeral. Not a dry eye in the house. I had the good fortune of serving with him twice: as a SA/SN on Conifer and as QM1 board Chinook, the latter which we decom'd in 1986. He was a true Salt and a Skipper without peer. On 06/01/07 Baby Guns said: All right guys, 'Baby Guns' is gringing out the Big Guns. I will get Mark the Shark Mellon to this site ASAP. Also looking into some of the old Officers. Sady, Slim Cantrell and Loney Hayatt have just past over the bar last year, but would it be a hoot if we could get Stormin Normin and or a few more snipes into the act? On 06/01/07 John Surprise said: I spoke to Clifford Sears not to long ago, he is living in Sanford, NC, I'll give him a call and have him hook up here, this is the coolest sight . Makes me want to go out in the parking lot and play VOLLEYBALL!!! On 06/01/07 Bob Bell said: On Classmates.com there is a CONIFER group. Talasky and myself are on it. And there is a photo ablum I uploaded. On 06/01/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Harl- Yep! It was Kevin McIntosh On 06/01/07 Harl Hockeborn said: Brian, I just remembered his full name, Kevin McIntosh. On 06/01/07 Dennis Holland said: Great job guys, keep finding them. E-mail me any contacts you make and I'll keep a contact list. This thing is picking up momentum!!!! On 06/01/07 Bob Bell said: Just left a message for Tony (Beau) Farr. He's now in Virginia. Retired CWO I think. Will keep you posted....... On 06/01/07 Harl Hockeborn said: Brian, his name was McIntosh. He also had a BIG 4wd truck you had to climb into. On 06/01/07 Dennis Holland said: Wooly, the idea about Beach Tavern sounds great. A place we are all familiar with and one of our own running the place. On 06/01/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Great job Dennis! All these names from the the 'Fid'! I am having flashbacks - alll good ones! This reunion is getting better and better - can't wait to get to the Beach Tavern and seeing all these old faces. Who was the guy that owned an old jeep and had a hang glider - he was a SN, from Boone, NC? John Surprise - good to see your name here. I am picturing the Conifer breaking ice in the upper Chesapeake Bay - reenlisting on the bouy deck with LCDR Labuda! Those were the days! On 06/01/07 John Surprise said: Dennis, Wades first name is Brian, and I would be very interested in a reunion, to sit around and shoot the breeze about the old days would be remarkable. Sing out if u here from Scott Ruete. On 05/31/07 Dennis Holland said: Found a number for Terri Spence in Harkers Island. I'll try it tomorrow. 'Wade' from the same are, what was his first name? Also found a number in for a Scott Ruete. Let you all know how it comes out!!! On 05/31/07 Dennis Holland said: Suprise!!!!! Great to hear from you. So many great names popping in from the old days!!! Any chance you might be interested in a reunion in Sept. ? Where are at now, What ya doing? Enjoying being retired I hope. Do you have any contacts from Conifer? On 05/31/07 John Surprise said: Hello to all the shipmates I served with aboard the best Damn bouytender there ever was. I just spoke to baby guns and he hooked me up with all you guys. On 05/31/07 Baby Guns said: Just left a phone message with Surprise and Mellon. Should be hearing back tonight. My son heads to UF in Gainsville in August so after that I will be free and clear to persue the retired life. see ya Oh yea, as far as the 'Babby Guns' goes, I don't know how that popped back up. The older we get, the better we was! On 05/31/07 Wooly Woolard said: Here's some more nick names from that era to ponder: Gary ' Mac' Phearson; Young, Yankee Boot Allen; J J LIgon (you recall the the JJ I'm sure); 'General' Tim Lee; QM3 Scott 'Rootie;' Sasquash, who still runs the Beach Tavern. We definitely gotta light that place up!!!! On 05/31/07 Dennis Holand said: Baby Guns!!!!!! I haven't heard that in a couple (almost 3) decades until today. This is the second time today. Ligon asked me if I'd heard from 'Baby Guns' Hey I've e-mailed you a couple of times at the address you have on this site. Just want to make sure they are getting through. I still remember you in the boom shack with your spider man mask. Can't wait to see ya in Sept. Let me know any contacts you make or I can help with. Or just write and let me hear from ya. On 05/31/07 Baby Guns said: Denis, no problem. lets see if we can get this thing in gear. Sure would be great to add some more names. I'm trying to make a few more contacts. Standby for heavy rolls, as ship comes about On 05/31/07 Dennis Holland said: Just met Jim Ligon in Wilminton for lunch. It was great seeing him. Still the same Jim. On 05/31/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis, No Problem BTW the picture of Bunch and Fish is about fish wearing a tie with a short sleeve shirt. Look at the picture again. It;s why I took it! On 05/31/07 Larry Woolard said: That'd be great Dennis. Will be in Johnston Co. this weekend and will try and give you a holler. On 05/31/07 Brian Bielitz said: Go for it Dennis! On 05/31/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey, Bob, Larry, Brian, Rich, would you all mind if I put all of your e-mail address in a group, so that I can send out mass e-mails to all of you and anyone else I find. This would make it easier to keep everyone up to date on any plans. I'm guessing since you have your e-mail addresses posted here you may not mind, but please write back and let me know. Sept 22nd is getting closer!!!!! On 05/31/07 Dennis Holland said: Found another!!!! Located and talked to Todd Talasky for about 30 minutes last night. He's onboard for a reunion. List is getting longer!!!! On 05/30/07 Larry said: A picture of Bunch getting all up in Fishman's grill? Tink, those pics Dennis forwarded me were priceless. I've got all of September circled on my calendar. You guys pick a day, and I'm there. On 05/30/07 Bob said: Hey everyone, I spoke to Jay Boyd the other day and he said he's in if his work schedule permits. I'm starting to think this may actually fly. On 05/30/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey again Bob, Great pics. Man it brings back great memories. Hey folks, got one more on board. I spoke with Larry Woolard (Wooly) last night and he's in for the reunion. On 05/26/07 Dennis Holland said: Bob, The pics were great, Thanks On 05/26/07 Dennis Holland said: Classmates.com was a great idea. I found e-mails for Clark, Dowdee, O'Toole, Russell, Bunch, Wiggs and McIntosh. I sent out an invitation to them and advised them about this site, so maybe we'll see them here soon. On 05/24/07 Bob Bell said: Dennis maybe you can post the reunion on classmates.com or in Proceedings. On 05/23/07 Mike Nugent said: I was on the Conifer from 1976 to 1978 I would like to hear from some of my old shipmates and talk about our time on the Conifer. On 05/21/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Hey Dennis! September 22 sounds good for me as well. I have a couple of names I am trying to contact. On 05/20/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey Guys! If you all are able to contact anyone and get something even close to a definite on them , have them e-mail me and I'll begin compiling a tenative list and contact info. On 05/20/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey Bob, Great to have you onboard. This could be a lot of fun. I can't wait to see how we have all changed. It's been 27 years since I've seen any of you all. So many stories to catch up on and re-tell. My wife is anxious to put faces with some of the stories I've told. Bob, I noticed in earlier postings, that you have some pictures from that era. Any chance you could re post them. I spoke with Ligon and he has lots. Shoot me an e-mail if I can help find anyone. On 05/20/07 Bob said: Hey Guys count me in! I'll see if I can locate any of the other guys I keep in touch with like Tony Farr,Jay Boyd, Mark Hallauer On 05/19/07 Dennis Holland said: Well I've located and spoke with Jim Ligon. I'm still trying to hear from some of the Larry Woolard numbers I've found. I've also located some numbers for K.W. Goodwin. If any of you guys know the location of any of the 1980 era crew, give them a call and let's make this happen. How does Sept 22nd 2007 sound to meet in Beaufort? If I can help in locating some one you would like to find, e-mail me. Can't wait to hear from you. On 05/16/07 Brian K Bielitz said: Dennis, if my memory serves me right, I heard (I believe from Jim Ligon years ago) that Bob Ricketts is no longer with us. It seems like you are taking the ball and running with this! Great job Dennis. Atlantic Beach in Sep 07 sounds great for me. Call me if on my cell number concerning Bob. Let me know if there is anything that I can help you with concerning the reunion. On 05/15/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey how would some of you guys form the 1980 era (or anyone else interested) feel about meeting in Atlantic Beach area, maybe late Sept. 07 (miss the crowds) We could maybe meet over in Beaufort and share a beer and old stories on the waterfront. I may have located Jim Ligon(still waiting to hear back) and am about to try and call a couple of Larry Woolards I have found. Still can't locate Bob Ricketts. Anyone have any ideas on him. If anyone is interested, contact anyone you may know the where abouts of and get them on here or contact me. I'd love to hear from you all. On 05/10/07 Rich Rougeux said: Brian and Dennis count me in on this reunion stuff. I can contact Mellon and Surprise with no problem. As far as how to set this thing up, I have no clue. Lets see if this posting brings some intrest. On 05/09/07 Brian Bielitz (Sk2) said: That's right - it was a Spirit! Small call with lots of glass. I believe we all were thinking - what was he thinking! Anyway, I will send you an email with my phone numbers so next time you are here we can do lunch! Looking forward to seeing you. In case you don't know, the Conifer is still around - she is now the M/V Hope - go www.friendships.org to see her now! On 05/09/07 Dennis Holland said: Count me in on the Conifer reunion.!!!! That would be great. I'll try and track down some of the old names on the internet and see what I can come up with. Brian, so you are in Virginia Beach... My wife is from Chesapeake and we are in that area every couple of months. We'll have to try and meet up. It would be great to talk of the old Conifer times. My car was a light blue AMC Spirit. Looking back, I think....what was I thinking? On 05/09/07 Brian Bielitz (SK2) said: Is there anybody out there that would be interested in a USCGC CONIFER reunion? It seems that we all made some great friends during our time on the old boat, and it would be nice to get back together and relive the old days just for a short time? Send back you thoughts and we'll see what happens. On 05/09/07 Brian Bielitz (SK2) said: I forget who made your car, but it was an 'Eagle', correct? We need to get a Conifer reunion going! The last time I heard from Jim and Mary Beth they were in the Wilmington area - but that was years ago! I am sure that I have some photos, and will get there on this site as soon as possible. Mellon, Rougeux, ans John Surprise are in Florida - and that is really all I know. I left the Coast Guard in 1986 and did some retail work while I was in Boston. I returned home to beautiful Virginia Beach in 1989. I work for the Commonwealth of Virginia - have been here 17 years now. I am not married and enjoying life (not to say that married life is not enjoyable). Keep in touch Dennis, maybe we can get that reunion going! On 05/08/07 Dennis Holland said: Brian, Great to hear from you. It's been years since I have heard some of these names. There were some fun times on board the Conifer. I made some friends on there, that I really regret losing touch with. I used to enjoy that graffiti log, made a few entries in it myself. Do you have any old pics you could post or know where some might be. I saw that Bob Bell had posted some a couple of months back. I can't find them. I guess the site gets cleared after a while. You mentioned Mary Beth. I rememeber some fun parties at Jim and Mary Beths. Any idea where Jim ended up? I remember he was a pretty good photographer and should have some great pictures. How about any of the other guys mentioned in your posting. Where are they now? I have settled just outside of Raleigh, NC. I am a Captain with Raleigh Fire Dept. where I've worked for almost 24 years now. I have a wonderful wife and two kids. So what about yourself? On 05/08/07 Brian Bielitz (SK2) said: Dennis Holland. I remember you. I still have one of those Conifer 'Grafitti Logs'! I was SK3/2 from June 1980 until October 1982 then I went to LORSTA Marcus Island. Wooly, Bob RIcketts and Jim Ligon (wife Mary Beth), and Rich Rougeux. Jesse Chappel was the Yeoman. LCDR O'Toole, replaced by LCDR Labuda - the list just goes on and on. There were some great times on the Conifer! On 05/01/07 Dennis Holland said: Hey Bob Bell, It's been a long time, and I wasn't on board but about a year (2/80 until around 1/81) I don't recognize your name although you must have been onboard. I saw that you have some pics of the crew then, how do I find these? On 05/01/07 Dennis Holland said: WOW!!! I recognize a couple of names here. I served on the Conifer straight out of boot camp. I came onboard in Feb 1980. Due to some family health issues my stay was only about a year. I was a 'deckie' I rmember som great times with Larry Woolard (Wooly) Bob Rickets, Jim Ligon, and many others. I used to enjoy the 'doodle log book' in the watch shack. It would be great to hear from some of you guys. I saw Rougeux in the posting here. You were a gunners mate and boom operator when I was there. Hope some of you guys see this and contact. On 04/11/07 James said: Was on the conifer in 1946 Then transfered to the Misslrtoe in 1947.jac133b@aol.com On 03/05/07 Brian Bielitz (SK2) said: AH! Some old faces from the 80's! I recognize Todd Talasky, Tom Bunch, and Larry Woolard (Wooly). There are two others that I 'know' but don't remember their names. That happens when you get old! Thanks for sharing the photos. I am going to have to dig up mine and post them. Thanks again Bob! On 03/04/07 Bob Bell said: On the photo page, I uploaded a picure of some of the Conifer Crew from 79-81. Hope all are well On 02/13/07 Kimberlee Alford said: Hello there! It's Alford - Kimberlee Langford now - got my first pair of sealegs -- with the aid of many trash bags on my belt -- on the Conifer! - Hey there Blood!!! Great to see you! - I still talk with Manson now and again - he went to Hamilton after RD school too..he's a cop now in CT. (You're right about Telefoni...I remember him saying: 'lay low, kimblee, lay low.' ha!) Let's see, anyway, lots of hard work, got fat, got skinny, went to RM school, then to the CGC Hamilton, great duty, and Group Boston-- now I'm a civillian -- I am a nurse, with 3 beautiful kids, a great husband and I live on a lake in Northern Idaho, where no one knows anything about the Coast Guard! - How are you guys?! Pop me a line! On 12/16/06 Dave Wisniewski said: I was on the Coniferin 79 and still remember the trip to Nova scotia to look for the Bear. Nothing like getting your ear dums blown off by the foghorn and being soaked to the bone by the fog ! On 12/12/06 Dwaylon Calhoun said: Just updating my e-mail address. I try to keep up with everyone as much as I can from the 88-91 Crew. Shoot me an e-mail! On 12/05/06 Bruce Thornal said: I'm getting close to my 30 year retirement and thinking back about the Conifer. I started out on her in Jan. '78. Crazy crew with GM3 Mac, BM2 Cotton, and BM1 Spencer? I see Bell and Farr are still kicking. Anyone else out there from that era? On 11/01/06 Brian K Bielitz SK3/2 said: Ah! Icebreaking in the Chesapeake Bay! I have a photo of us doing that hanging on my office wall - the photo was taken by a photographer for the Virginia Pilot/Ledger Star newspaper during our icebreaking trip in the winter of 1982 - that was the year that I reenlisted on the bouy deck during a break in the action. The memories are coming back now! If anybody would like an emailed copy let me know. On 10/31/06 John Hildebrandt said: I ('Hilda', 'Hildabroom') was on the Conifer around 1979 - ran the crane for awhile and then went off to LORSTA Lampedusa - anyone remember icebreaking in the Chesapeake Bay and looking for the USCG Bear off of Newfoundland? On 10/25/06 jeff sherouse said: Hey all, I was onboard the conifer from 76to78. Was a MK2. I am retired and in Alaska. Drop me a line. On 09/18/06 Rich Rougeux said: Oh yes, the good od Coni'fid' from the late 70's. My first ship in what turned out to be a great 20 year stint in the Guard. I was just looking at a photo taken down at the beach with Doug Vaugn, Mark Mellon, John Surprise, and 'Young Yankee Boot' Allen. In the far back ground was Joe Gay, Tim Lee, and Buz Bolton. Hard to believe how young we were back in the day. On 09/09/06 Bob (Tinker) Bell said: Hello again all. Glad to see some of the old timers on (70's for me) Still in NJ. Hope to hear from old shipmates. On 07/25/06 Frank Campbell said: Served out of boot camp on the Conifer in Portsmouth.17 years old at the time. The best memories of her always in my mind. Cheif Willie Fields was my Chief. What a wonderful guy. I only wish I had stayed in, but at that age, we think we know it all. All the best to all that served. On 07/21/06 BMCS F. W Applegate said: I was on board CGC CONIFER as a SA/SN 1975-1977 at CG Base Fort Macon, Atlantic Beach, NC . It was an excellent homeport. The COs were LCDR Barton and LCDR Hearn both are now retired Captains. Me, I'm a retired BMCS/E-8. On 06/21/06 FPerniola said: Stationed on Connie 91-94 under John Ochs. Great tour with great people. Hope you're still out there Wolf. Talk to the Goose once in a while. Noticed lots of names from past; Kari Sawchak, Mimi Bollafi, Jimmy Owens, Johnny Barnhill, etc. I regretably saw Chuck Lindsey's note regarding Ray Arredondo. Heartbreaking. I retired just after 9/11 and have been working for SUPSHIP Puget Sound (yes, Navy!) in the Seattle/Bremerton area. Keep in touch. On 06/14/06 Kevin Blood said: Sorry hit the wrong key. EX Bm1 Kevin Blood On 06/14/06 Kevin Blod said: I was an SA on the Conifer stationed out of Base terminal Island, from 87to 88. I would like to hear from anyone who knows how BMC Telefoni is during. He had a hell of an impact on my career. Ex. Bm1 Kevin Blood On 05/25/06 Brian Bielitz said: Note to SS3 (Doug) Vaughan- I tried to send you an email but the address listed with your last posting is not good. Send me an email dude! The last time I spoke with you I was on LORSTA Marcus Island and you were at LORSTA Iwo Jima.... On 05/19/06 Brian Bielitz (SK3/2) said: Oh, how I remember the Conifer! Still have one of the grafitti logs that we kept in 'shack' on the dock! I was stationed onboard from 80-82 (LCDR O'Toole was CO) followed by LCDR Labuda. What a time it was! Rich Rougeus, John Surprise, Mark Mellon....and on and on. Left Conifer for LORSTA Marcus Island - talk about a great year! On 05/03/06 Mark Hallauer said: I was the HM on the Conifer in the early 80's. I remember Jay Boyd (ENS), Bob Naylor, CDR O'Toole, Mike Franchini (ENS), Tony Farr and Tinkerbell. Ft. Macon was great duty. On 01/26/06 Ron Wilkins said: CGC Conifer (WLB-301) now the MV Hope and CGC Papaw (WLB-308) now the MV Mersea are being used for emergency relief for Friend Ships Ministries. Here are the links: (HOME) http://www.friendships.org .... (PAPAW-308) http://www.friendships.org/FSFleetMersea.html .... (CONIFER-301) http://www.friendships.org/FSFleetHope.html On 01/21/06 Rich Rougeux said: SNGM/GM3 79-81 now retired CWO (weps) Deland Fl. What a blast down memory lane. Some of the names bring stories to mind that are best not told on the open market. I'm still in touch with J.R. Surprise and Mark 'The shark ' Mellon. Drop a line and lets reopen a few chapters from that era. On 01/17/06 Hector Barajas Jr said: Yes I was on the Connie too. Twice as a matter of fact. Had a better time the second go around. One of my close friends on the boat was Nathan Yager. Man we were tight. The fun we had. On 12/30/05 Obituary submitted by Dr said: Captain Allen Armstrong U.S. Coast Guard, (Ret.) Master Mariner, Oceans, and G.T. July 1, 1920 – December 24, 2005--- Allen’s character exemplified the American Ideal of self- sufficiency, independence, responsibility and integrity and his life was the quintessential American Dream of upward mobility. Allen was born on July 1, 1920 in Franklin County, Missouri. His early years were hugely impacted by the Great Depression as he grew up on a farm in a farming community whom the railroads had tricked so the farmers’ cooperative – which his father ran - could not get their crops to market. Both of his parents were teachers before they had children and his father ultimately became a principal of a tiny school. But Grand Mal epilepsy cost him that job and the Armstrong’s, four boys strong, grew up in abject poverty. Allen often commented that none of us could have any idea of what real poverty was like. Allen’s father often read to him before he fell asleep and one of the favorite sources of stories was The Saturday Evening Post. At one time the magazine ran a three-part story about a sailor and Allen vowed – though he never got to hear the third part with the end of the story – that when he grew up he would be a sailor. When he graduated in the depth of the Great Depression from his small high school in 1939, he went to the military’s recruiting offices. The Navy had a waiting list for several years but the Marines and the Coast Guard had immediate openings. His mother refused to sign the papers that would allow him to become a Marine which left the Coast Guard his only choice and way to get away from the impoverished farms of Missouri. It took him all summer, working in the fields at one dollar a day to earn the money to fix his teeth, which were required to be perfect. He and his bride, Katherine (Kitty) Kavenough went to his first station, Escanaba in the dead of winter. It was the first of many stations and transfers and perhaps the real introduction to the reality of military life in which an order is not a suggestion. World War II arrived and the Coast Guard was involved before it was public knowledge. Long before the U.S. entered the war officially, Allen served on the Leonard Wood, which was part of a convoy that brought British troops to Singapore. These troops were captured by the Japanese and were the people who built the bridges over the river Kwai. The days of adventure and responsibility were really beginning. The Armstrong’s now had two children, Mary Alice (now Prins of Sequim, WA) and Michael (now of La Jolla, CA). Allen helped his captain, a merchant marine, form a convoy and that became the first major opportunity Allen had to rise in the ranks. His captain refused to accept Allen’s top ambition as an enlisted man and, instead, recommended him for OCS at the Coast Guard Academy. In 1943 Allen was an Ensign for Temporary Service and in 1945 he held the rank of Lieutenant (JG) for Temporary Service. After the end of World War II Allen successfully passed the exam which pushed many new officers back down into the enlisted ranks, and he became a permanent Lieutenant JG. His first assignment was as CO of eleven men on a year of isolated duty in the Philippines. That experience was transformational for Allen because his group became the model of what an isolated unit could become. Allen was evolving into the leader he would become. Allen decided that his career would take him to sea and he sailed almost non-stop from 1939 to 1967, with relatively brief shore assignments. He held every rank except Warrant Officer and he mastered most of the critical skills: navigation, executive officer, watch officer – he’d even been a cook as a black shoe sailor. In 1952 he became the commanding officer of the CGC Conifer; in 1954 he commanded the CGC Blackhaw; and in 1965 he became the commanding officer of the CGC Chincoteague. He was a tough but fair captain and in an unusual testimony to how respected and beloved he was, the crew who served under him on the CGC Conifer has held a reunion every four or five years to catch up and reminisce and shake the hand of “the old man.” Sleep tight, Cap! On 09/22/05 Ed Swift said: Would like to purchase a copy of the Conifer history book that was given out at the decommissionig dinner in San Pedro. I would like to have been there but there was a communication snafu, and I didn't make it. If that isn' t available than i would like to know who the two plank owners were who did make it. Thank you, Ed Swift On 08/02/05 Tom Cloonen said: My dad served on her back in 1944. Blake Cloonen. He was on it when it was presumed to have sunk a german sub. Any of his ship mates out there? On 07/08/05 Bob Naylor said: I found her ... CONIFER is now the US registered MV HOPE homeported in Port Mercy, Lake Charles, LA. She is owned by the charitable Friend Ships organization. She delivers relief supplies to South America, Central America, and Africa. As of today (JUL-8, 2005) she is taking on fuel and preparing to get underway to deliver emergency relief supplies to Caribbean areas stricken by Hurricane Dennis. You will find information about Friend Ships and a few photos of CONIFER (now MV HOPE) at www.friendships.org (check out the helo deck!) Interestingly, there seems to be volunteer opportunities with Friend Ships -- wouldn't that be a reunion ... running supplies down to Central America? Prepare to get underway one? Best regards - Bob Naylor (1978 - 1980) On 05/08/05 R.Gustafson said: Sup people! Gunny here. Just to let you people know I am here in Alaska. The Conifer was the best. We had a ATON crew from hell, you guys and ladies rocked! Drop me an e-mail. On 04/17/05 William Hoitt said: Anyone around from the CGC Conifer at Morehead City NC during 1955-1957 time frame On 04/16/05 MK2 Jonesy said: I was fn stationed on Conifer from 1998 to decommissioning in 2000. Great ship with a great crew. On 02/08/05 J. OWENS said: Stationed as a seaman from 91 to 93. Worked hard and played harder. Anyone remember the chinese ops off of mexico. What a trip. Whats up to Barnhill, Skaggs, Bryant, Delacruz, Hanks, Patino, Setter, Gagnon, and everyone else I serverd with on Conifer. Also just for info Barnhill was removed by me as warlord of aft berthing. On 01/17/05 BMC Chuck Lindsey said: It is with a heavy heart I pass that our Dear Friend Ray Arredondo has crossed the bar. If anyone has any questions or would like to get in touch with Rays Family feel free to email me. I will do what I can. Ray was a Highway Patrolman and passed away last year. He was a great friend/mentor and will be sadly missed...Godspeed Dondo we love you!!! ' Shacks Shacks Shacks' On 01/01/05 Chris Hoschak said: I was stationed on the Conifer 95-97 and enjoyed every minute. I would love to see any video that was shot during those years. Sometimes the stories I tell are so good I need the video to prove it. Drug busts during hurricanes to working NOAA bouy's in weather we had no buisness being in. I love where I am now, but those were good times! On 11/23/04 Mimi Bolaffi said: Well this is a blast from the past. My brother sent me this site. I was BM1 on board the Conifer from June 93 to June 96. Great ship and crew. Now working in Homeland Security with maritime emphasis. Best regards to all. Mimi On 11/17/04 matthew seeger said: I was stationed on the Conifer from Sep'96 to Aug 98. I am wondering if anyone still has the video of us returning that grey whale to the sea off the coast of San Diego in March 98. The video was shot by a crewmember onboard. Also i am looking for a video that a german (or nearby country) documentary crew did aboard the Conifer while i was on board. i have checked the internet but haven't seen anything about it. Well thanks for you time. On 11/09/04 Kari Sawchak said: 90-92 QM3 Looking for some Conifer shipmates! Hey Doc! Hey Dwaylon (got a pic to send you of a moment at Barwinkels) Hey Sheila! Hey Kurt! I hope all is well. I would love to here from shipmates to find out what everyone is up to! On 09/16/04 LeRoy Trnavsky said: Just a note to let all the Conifer alumni from the 50's know that Staten Moore QM1 ret. passed away Sunday September 9th in Marshallberg, NC at the age of 92. He was always a gentleman and we shall miss him. On 09/06/04 Johnny Barnhill said: Looking for any Conifer shipmates and to update my email address. I was the corpsman (HS2) aboard the Conifer from May '89, to Feb '92, and was the undisputed 'warlord' of aft berthing. A pretty uneventful tour, the highlights included the '89 trip to Alaska. We once sailed across the Gulf of Alaska incredibly with about 14 or 15 buoys of all sizes that BMC Telefoni somehow crammed on deck (didn't lose a single one!) I'm back on the left coast (Bay Area this time) for one final tour before heading off into the sunset next year after 26 years. Gimme a shout out shipmates! On 08/05/04 JoLynda Bitley (Morales) said: Looking for any Conifer ship mates from 1989-1991 or so. Sheila Briggs, Doc Wright, US Dalton, Cheif Grimes, Mr. Whitehouse, Mike Cordova, Dway Calhoun, Anyone? On 12/31/03 John Nesbitt said: 12/31/03 John Nesbitt served as SK Striker then SK3 1968-69 came back as SK2 1973-75 delivered the ship to Ft. Macon in June of 75 and stayed with the sand fleas until December of 75. Retired in1989, gave them almost 24 years. If anybody remembers I'm the guy that looked like Captain Kangaroo taking all the videos at the decommissioning. Since then I have the best snipe job in the world, I operate the steam locomotive at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Va. Would like to hear from any old shipmates. P.S. the stuff I bought at the luckybag sale is not for sale. On 12/29/03 William Hoitt said: William Hoitt, kind of goofed, my time on the Conifer was 1955-1957 Thanks On 12/26/03 William Hoitt said: Served on the Conifer in engine room from 1945-1947, was ENl when I left, served with Wilber Simpson, CWO Chief Rose, Don Allen, Curtis Nelson, Chief Williams, On 10/29/03 Jim Bailey CWO(MED)RET said: I went aboard the conifer in 1960- as an HM2 from the Jonquil. Would like to hear from any old shipmates. On 04/29/03 Ron Jerding said: Wanted to let my friends from the conifer to know I'm still out here ,only changed my e- mail address to: ReRon papa@aol.com I hope to hear from you soon. Ron Jerding On 04/10/03 RALPH HAWKINS said: I served with Ron Jerding in 1967 right out of Engineman School. I remember Ron Dillow from Fla. and Anderson from Alaska and a lot of others. email me if you see this message. On 04/03/03 Derrick Aalderts said: Hello to all former snipes & deck force of the Conifer. I was on Conifer from 89' to 91'. Hard to believe it's been almost 15 years since I left. What do I remember most? All those trips to Tijuana with Ray Gonzales & Robert Webster (the Glamour Boys to anyone who was there.); Dway, Johnnie, Mr. Helt, Jeff, Anici, Chief Telefoni...gee the list goes on & on. Mostly I remember trying to find ways to tick off BM1, demoted to Bm2 Comfort...hope you're OK Dave. Anybody I served with is welcome to reply! Godbless. On 04/02/03 SS3 vaughn said: served on conifer 1980-82. for some reason i cant understand i miss that old boat. we called it the fid for obviuse reasons! On 03/27/03 Ron Jerding said: May1966,I boarded the Conifer while at Baltimore shipyards in drydock.I served on ship until 68 as Fireman apprentice.I am looking for crew members who remember me. Has anyone heard from Ron Dillow from Fla.,Andy Anderson from Alaska or George McGeorge(Snowy)?I heard the Conifer is now a traing hulk in Seattle,Wa.Could this be true? On 03/27/03 ron jerding said: i searved on the conifer in portsmouth va. 1966-1968 looking for ron dillow or andy from alaska On 02/20/03 Howard HendersOn said: Was YN2 on CGC Conifer released from active duty, on 7/24/67 from her. Skipper Was LCDR Crouch, XO was LT. Karl K. Drum. On 11/12/02 Bob Bell said: I have found a website that states it has 2 180 WLB's. Here is the website http://www.planetoceansociety.com/Tekspeditions/ Could this be the Conifer?? N On 06/12/02 Bob Bell said: Does anyone know where the Conifer is Now? On 11/13/01 RALPH HAWKINS said: SERVED AS ENGINEMAN 2ND CLASS FOR ABOUT 2-1/2 YEARS ENDING OCT 1969. WENT TO SAN PEDRO,CALIF. A COUPLE YEARS AGO TO SEE HER AGAIN. COULDN'T GET INTO THE ENGINE ROOM BECAUSE OF REPAIRS. ORIGINALLY FROM BALTIMORE, NOW LIVE IN PHOENIX, AZ.-ALONG WAY FROM THE OCEAN. On 10/28/01 Rudy Angst said: Just updating my e-mail address, retired now, life is good...Went to the Decomissioning, was a very nice ceremony, plus got to see some of the old gang.... On 10/09/01 BM2 TIM STYROn said: CAME OFF CGC LAUREL (WLB 291) WHEN USCGC CONIFER (WLB 301) CAME TO FORT MACON AND RELEIVED THE LAUREL FOR HER TRIP TO ALASKA.WAS A BM2 AT THAT TIME AND STAYED ON THE CONIFER UNTIL DISCHARGED IN JUNE OF 76. I AM INTERESTED IN HEARING FORM ANY OF MY SHIPMATES OFF OF EITHER THE LAUREL OR CONIFER DURING THIS ERA. MY EMAIL ADDRESS IS gasdock@starfishnet.com. On 10/03/01 Jen Venero said: Just wanted to say HI!!!! to DJ. I finished as BM1 and now I'm taking care of my kids full time. Hope all is well On 08/28/01 Jim Williams said: Served on board right out of boot camp from 1962 to 1963. I remember a lot of hard work and sleepless nights while underway.Shipmate names that come to mind, SN Biggs, BM1 Hall BM2 Taylor BM3 Hill. Had some great times. Just found out about the decommisioning, sorry I missed it. On 08/16/01 ROBERT HILL BMCM RET.81 said: NEW E-MAIL ADDRESS HORNETHUT@HOTMAIL.COM On 06/27/01 Bob Bell said: Looking for Scott Ruete who was on the Conifer 79-81. Was a QM3 at the time. Anyone having info please respond. Thanks On 06/25/01 JDBoruff said: Unknown picture: I think she was tied up at 9th St.Cleveland OH just after being built at Duluth. She has grey paint job for WW2. On 05/18/01 J.D.Boruff said: On 05.17.01 talked with LCMD Loftus on phone. Forgot to get his e-mail address. On 05/14/01 Charlie BrattOn said: She was my first assignment after graduating ET school in 1962. We had an excellent close working crew. I learned so much while on her. I was sorry to leave her. On 02/22/01 Wade Neal said: I served as QM1 from from the time she was transferred from Portsmouth, Va in 75 until the ice breaking operation in Upper Chesapeake Bay in Jan 77. On 01/03/01 Gunz said: Nice picture Ed. Gunny is still looking for you people. Give me a holler. On 12/30/00 Ed Sigmund said: I posted a picture of CONIFER and one of the patch that we had in the early 60's in the Photo Album section, be sure to check them out On 12/29/00 Robert GustafsOn said: Remember GUS OR GUNZ. How about BOOMBOOM I miss being in the boom shack watching all you deckies scrubbing and painting. Wheres the crew? Im sad to hear its decommed. Another good ship gone. Mr shay ruled. Arredondo degeus, The whole crew! My favorite unit while i was in. Miss the job. Wish I could be there again Drop me a line guys and girls. Retired at 29 in Alaska. life is good. On 12/28/00 Jacqui Neault said: I was onboard Conifer from 88-90. It was my first unit out of boot camp. Interesting place to start out. Had a lot of fun and a lot not so much fun there. As I said, interesting place to start out. I enjoyed the long trips, working on lookout at night, enjoying the seabreeze in my face and the stars above my head. That's probably what I miss most about it. On 11/21/00 Bob Bell said: It is great to see all Conifer sailors chatting about the old girl. I was wondering, Are there any plans for a reunion? If anyone has any information please post it in this forum. Be Well Bob On 11/19/00 Cecilia (CC) Pillado said: I enjoyed the last tour on the ship it was a great crew BM3/BM2 98-2000 On 11/17/00 Melanie Easterling TC2 said: I was onboard from '94 to '98. I was looking for anyone that knows the whereabouts of Jason Nager, he served on the Conifer as a BM3/BM2 while I was there. Anyone that can help, drop me a line! On 11/06/00 David Ashey AMT2 said: I was a FN aboard from 94 to 96. Just wondering where everyone is and how they're doing. If anyone see this message and would like to say hello please drop me an E-mail. It would be nice to hear from you. On 09/02/00 John D.Boruff said: I was HM2 on the Conifer Feb55-Aug57.I have several stories about life aboard including three hurricanes, Chesapeake Bay, James River, Anapolis Bridge, Pappy Moore, Buddy Williams,Capt.Shepherd,Exec.Bob Davis,the Morehead Harbor, Fort Macon, Harkers Island, Lt.Thompson,etc.if anyone is still interested in ancient history.Also went to corps school at Groton and in a hurricane. Graduated Sept.3,1954 the same day my first daughter was born. On 08/31/00 Rik said: Onboard in 1975-6 as she came to NC from Portsmouth. This was certainly a good time, but some of the worst things I have every run up against with people happened here. Glad that one was over when I moved on, but the crew was excellent and I would liked to have served with just about any of the enlisteds at any time in the future. Best memories--rescueing a crew from a sail boat with a jammed rudder about 300 miles out and in 15 foot seas. Worst time--running aground in the Cape Fear and getting stuck for 3 hours next to a dredge. Thanks to the commercial towboat on which one of the reservist on board knew the old man. That one did not get logged, much less reported. On 07/29/00 Kurt Tremont said: Sorry I missed the fun. Served onboard from 87 to 90. As they say 'it was the best of times, it was the worst of times' but I do have to say I have mostly good memories. For those I know (or thought I did), drop me a line and let me know how you are doing. On 07/05/00 Bernie Jacobson HM2 said: I attended the decommissioning. It was bitter sweet. Conifer is 'different' from whn I served ( 661-62) Now a ladder on port sidef from main deck down. She is airconditioned and someone painted the interior of the bridge robins egg blue! But she is still Conifer. Always felt safe. Met new and old shipmates. Plank owners their adult children to the children of the crew. I always felt Conifer was mine, but I guess all of us who served only took care of her for the next crew. I actually expected to see some of my old ship mates drinking coffee on the mess deck. What great memories I had and new ones I've made. On 06/25/00 Bob Bell said: Now that the decommissioning is over and I am sorry I could not attend. I have a question. Where will the old 'Fid' go in her retirement? A previous posting said she was going to Seattle????? Also Dr T. Is it possible for former Conifer sailors to buy the decommissioning book? On 06/25/00 Dr LeRoy Trnavsky said: AS most of you know by now the CGC Conifer was decommissioned Friday, June 23, 2000. Thursday evening June 22, a Champagne party on board the Conifer was attended by about 80 past and present crew members and their guests. These guests included two plank owners and other crew members dating from the forties to the nineties. The decommissioning ceremony took place the following morning and was attended by approximately 400 people from all over the country and included several past commanding officers. A Conifer history book covering six decades and a commemorative coin Captain Loftus had specially struck for the occasion were distributed to those in attendance. There was also a large collection of photos and memorabilia on display that covered Conifers 57 years of service. The history book that was researched and written by Captain Loftus and LT Moland over the past 18 months, included the decommissioming ceremony program and was excellent in all aspects. In my opinion it could serve as a model for future decommissionings when those in charge want to record the history of the vessel being decommissioned. Following the ceremony a gourmet lunch was served that included ice carvings of the Conifer and two cakes. One that included an edible photo of the Conifer and one that included an edible picture of the crew. Quite a dessert! From this brief description of the decommissiong events I think it is self evident that Captain Loftus did the Conifer proud. She went over the bar in style. I personally would like to thank all of you that responded to my requests for photos and information regarding the Conifer through the years. I know how difficult it was to trust someone with your photos and written records. Your support helped make the history book the success that it was. Best regards to all 'FORMER' crew members of the CGC Conifer W-301. Dr LeRoy Trnavsky (SO2 CGC Conifer-1952-1954. On 06/24/00 DJ said: Okay, I'm pretty much a novice at this computer stuff, but I'm getting better as I go. I figured out that these posts are done on East Coast time, because that is where the administrator is located, and not by the time zone the person is in that is doing the posting. I'm sure most of you don't care about my enlightenment about computers and the internet, but I thought I would share it with you anyway. As I said, I would love to hear (not here) from some of you. DJ On 06/24/00 DJ said: I typed my last post at 2200 on 23 Jun 00, but for some reason it shows the 24th as the post date. Anyway, like I said before, she was a great ship with a great crew! On 06/24/00 DJ said: QM1 onboard from July 96 - May 98. Best ship I was ever stationed on. Great crew! The black hulls are the way to go. Today was her last day of Coast Guard service and I believe she will be missed by many. My only regrets are, I was onboard for only two years and I wasn't able to be at the decommissioning ceremony. Maybe I will be lucky enough to see her in Seattle. I would love to here from those of you I served with. Eric 'DJ' De Jager On 06/11/00 chiefcoarsey said: I liked GQ and Drills - I felt like each time there really was a major fire or flood. While I was stationed there I was radically aggressive. I know it bothered some of you. I finally put all my stuff in 4 garbage bags, left the ship in San Diego, and never looked back. I try to forget the bad stuff, but that doesn't leave much to remember. I hope she rests in peace. On 06/01/00 AVTCM BRUCE THORNAL said: I can still remember pulling up to the Conifer on 1 Jan '78 as a brand new SA and saying to myself 'What the hell did I get into?'! When I left there on 26 Nov '78, I took with me some of my fondest memories that I still treasure to this date. Such as the time we were sailing in a full blown Hurricane off of Hatteras searching for some unlucky fishermen and having the ship's bow dive into a 40+ footer that had 'green water' all the way back to the superstructure. The wave actually stopped and pushed the ship backwards for a few minutes! I was standing the flyingbridge lookout and thought that this just couldn't be happening! What a ride! The leasons I learned while on the Conifer, some harder than others, I took with me into Coast Guard Aviation and they have helped guide me to where I am today, the Aviation Force Manager at Headquarters. I am looking forward to attending the upcoming Decommmisioning Ceremony and hope to see some of my old shipmates there. On 05/14/00 SS3 Dwaylon Calhoun said: I was one the Subsistence Specialists ( That's cooks for you old salts and you newbees) on board the CONIFER from Sept 88-Feb 91. I hope that some of my old shipmates see my message because I will be there so will SN Derrick Aalderts and SN Jeff Hanks,(We all ready talked about it.) I have alot of sea stories but most of them are not for print! Also, any Confier Sailors from 1987-1992 if you are interested we are planning to make this more of a reunion, and plan to make t-shirts to celebrate this event and our time aboard. E-mail me for info, any design ideas or just to talk. I would love to hear from you all. By the way, has anyone seen Doug Cunningham? On 04/30/00 LCDR Jeff Loftus said: To all Former CONIFER sailors, Greetings!! I am the current and last Commanding Officer of this Great Ship and will have the awesome burden and responsibility to decommission her with an appropriate ceremony at 1000, Friday 23 June 2000 in San Pedro, California after more than 57 years of faithful sea service. Over the past nine months, I have been trying to identify and locate as many former CONIFER sailors as possible...to date, that number has exceeded 600, including 7 original plankowners from the commissioning ceremony at 1100, 04 May 1943. Throughout the process, we have solicited as many historically significant photos, newspaper clippings, logs, crew lists, and sea stories we could amass for possible inclusion in a detailed history book we have been writing. Pls contact me with any information that may be helpful. I hope to be working on the history book layout in May with printing in early June. We will send decommissioning ceremony invitations to all former CONIFER sailors we have addresses on. In addition, I just send letters to everyone soliciting their interest in attending an open house aboard CONIFER on the evening preceeding the decommissioning ceremony, 1800-2100, Thursday, 22 June 2000. This informal reception will only be open to former CONIFER sailors in town for the next days ceremony. Looking forward to hearing from you or seeing you at the ceremony. (CONIFER is scheduled to be transferred to the Maritime Administration and cruise to Seattle Washington to be made available as a Training Ship for a Merchant Mariners Training Program through Seattle Community College.) On 03/29/00 BMCM ROBERT E. HILL said: I REPORTED ONBOARD THE USCGC CONIFER (WLPG 301., OUT OF BOOT CAMP IN SEPT OF 1961 THE CAPT. WAS WILLIAM (WILD BILL) FERN. THE COAST GUARD WAS STILL USING GAS BOUYS. RODE OUT THE ASH WED. STORM. THE WATER WAS WAIST DEEP ON THE DOCKS AT PORTSMOUTH BASE WHEN THE SHIP GOT UNDERWAY. THE LIGHT SHIP CHESSAPAKE HAD BROKEN ITS MOORINGS AND WITH ALL ENGINES AHEAD SHE WAS GOING BACKWARDS 6 KNTS. WE TOOK HER IN TOW OFF OCEAN CITY MD. THE CWO H. PIVER HAD A BROTHER ON BOARD THE LIGHT SHIP AT THE TIME. THE WHOLD CREWS THOUGHS WERE OF HIM. HIS NAME WAS JAMES PIVER. I SERVED ON THREE SHIPS ALL HAVE NOW BEEN DECOMISHIONED. IF ANYONE IS STILL AROUND URING THAT TIME DROP A NOTE On 03/07/00 LeRoy Trnavsky said: Regarding the Conifer decommissioning ceremony: The 'Old Guard' from the 50's and 60's is responding well. Where are all the crews from the 70's 80's and 90's? How about the trip from the East Coast to the West Coast or the Alaska oil spill? This is your chance to record some of your memories permanently in the decommissioning book being written by Lt Moland. It doesn't have to be a book just a papagraph will do if thats all you would like to submit. Just give us the dates and who you are along with what you send and I'll see that it gets in the book. Your help will be greatly appreciated by myself and LT Moland. We want to make this a lasting tribute to a great cutter and her crews and we would like all of you to be a part of it. When I know the exact details of when and where it will take place I will post them. Dr T. On 03/02/00 BOSN2 Tony Farr said: I was a SA to BM3 on CONIFER in the late 70's out of Ft Macon/Atlantic Beach NC. Was the best thing that ever happened to me out of boot camp. Learned alot. Made alot of friends and formed a firm foundation for a 22.5 yr career.(so far) Have heard from a few CONIFER sailors from that era in the past few months. Would be interested in hearing from anyone that served aboard from Jan78 to Jan 80. On 02/28/00 HSC Johnny Barnhill said: I was the corpsman (HS2) aboard the Conifer from May '89, to Feb '92. A pretty uneventful tour, the highlights included the '89 trip to Alaska. We were enroute to assist in the Exxon Valdez oil spill, got to Bellingham, Wa. and we got a message saying they didn't need us for the oil spill. Instead of sending us back home to San Pedro, I guess D17 decided that since we were already enroute, and the CGC Planetree's boom was OOC we could come on up and work their buoys for 6 weeks. We once sailed across the Gulf of Alaska incredibly with about 14 or 15 buoys of all sizes that BMC Telefoni somehow crammed on deck(didn't lose a single one!) What date in June is she being decommed? I'd like to attend the ceremony if I can. On 02/27/00 Dr. LeRoy Trnavsky said: Have been unable to deliver email to Ed Swift (buddyboy@comten.com) regarding the decommissioning ceremony in June and the book being written about the Conifer. The current CO and LTjg Chris Moland would like to speak with him. If you see this Ed please contact me by email or if anyone knows why his mail is no longer going through please let me know. Ed was a plank owner and the only one I have been able to locate to this point. We need more personal stories and remembrances of past events by crew members. A lot of you have promised to send them but to this date we have received very few and time is running out. This is your chance to add something permanent to the long and distinguished history of the Conifer so don't be bashful, let us hear from you. Thanks in advance for your help. Dr. T. On 01/04/00 DCCS Don Luedeman said: I was on that SLEP 180 from summer 86-89. I met the ship in Panama, S.A. Not really an exciting tour, unless you liked working NOAA Bouys, bouys in San Diego, and anchoring out. It was all work and no play, tons of day trips, but always in by 5 as the CO had to be at his kids soccer game. Great bunch of snipes. Had the best BMC in the world on the ship, BMC Telifoni.he was one hell of a man. Was a linehandler for the ship as it was headed to help with Exxon Valdez oil spill. On 12/30/99 Bob said: Hello All, My name is Bob Bell and I was stationed on the Conifer in the late 70's while in Atlantic Beach. Signed on TAD as a QM 3, LCDR Hearn had that made PCS and made QM2. Would be happy to hear from any old shipmates. Be Well and Happy new Year On 12/05/99 Robert said: It,s Bob O'Toole again and the last posting was done in error. It was supposed to be posted to USCGC EVERGREEN. I did serve aboard Conifer as Commanding Officer from 1978 to 1981. It was a grand tour of duty in a great location, with terrific missions, and a fantastic crew. Having an extra year there was really sweet. Even breaking ice in the Chesapeake, where at times it was indistinguishable from the frozen wastes of the arctic, was an adventure. The response of the entire crew to a SAR recall (was that Christmas day?) in the aftermath of a crippling (for seacoast N.C.) snowstorm where the roads were closed and most had to walk to town and get ferried to the ship by USCG Base Fort Macon was a high point in my career. I'd be happy to hear from any shipmates reading this. On 12/04/99 Robert O'Toole said: The name didn't make it all the way through. It's Robert 'Bob' O'Toole, an board from 1965 to 1967. On 10/02/99 Robert Sands said: Just wanted to say hi to all of my shipmates. You know there is nothing like a master's degree before I retire. Send me some E#_mail and don't be lazy about it either. On 09/12/99 QM1 Hayward said: Sailed with conifer 1970 out of Portmouth, Va. Best food of any vessel I was ever assigned to. On 08/19/99 Reid Crispino, QMCS retired said: Sailed on her 1986-1987. Brought her around from Baltomore. Sailed on her again in 1989 TAD for Exxon Valdez. On 06/25/99 Brad deGeus said: Hi,I am looking for Ray Arredondo, He was a BM3 on the Conifer with me during 1992-94. I heard he had joined the California Highway Patrol and I am trying to locate him. On 06/17/99 Marty Folding said: I served on the Conifer from 12/67 through 6/69. I was a QM3. Anybody out there who served during this time????? On 05/12/99 Raymond A. Perdue, Sr. said: Just wanted to tell everyone that I reported aboard Conifer an FNMK and left her an MK3. Retired as CWO3. On 05/11/99 Raymond A. Perdue, Sr. said: I was stationed aboard Conifer from August '74 to August '75 at 'Old' Base Portsmouth that was located in downtown Portsmouth, VA. I was part of the crew that took her down to Atlantic Beach, N.C. and swapped her out with Laurel. We took Laurel around by way of the Panama Canal to San Diego, CA. and swapped her out with Bittersweet. Brought Bittersweet back through the canal and on to the Coast Guard Yards in Baltimore, MD. for decommissioning for a major overhaul. Anyone out there that made the trip? On 03/13/99 C. Hefner said: Just updating my E-Mail address. The best to you all. On 12/21/98 Jake JacobsOn said: B.A. Jacobson, HM2. I served in Conifer with BMCM Ed Sigmund. What a great ship. CO Lt. Peterson, XO LT. Bannister and Lt. Albert Daniel Grantham. Great shipmates and great memories. Sorry to hear she is being decommissioned On 11/30/98 Allen NelsOn said: Just updating my e-mail address: On 11/05/98 Dr LeRoy Trnavsky said: The Conifer will be decommissioned in the year 2000. Ensign Chris Moland has been assigned the task of writing a history of the Conifer that will be published in book form for the decommissioning ceremony.We need pictures, stories, and events related to the Conifer. A list of the crew members, their rating and when they served is being put together and will be printed in the book. Any and all information will be greatly appreciated. You can send the information to me and I will see that Ensign Moland receives it. It would be helpful if you will include a telephone number where you can be reached. The Conifer has been in service for over 50 years and there is a lot of history out there to be compiled. When you contact me please be patient. Everyone who responds will get a return reply ASAP. Thanks in advance for your help. Dr T. On 08/30/98 BMCM Ed Sigmund said: I was aboard from Sept. 60 to Aug. 62 as a SN/SNBM. Rode out the famous Ash Wednesday storm of '62 on her. Skippers during my tour were Lt Arnold H. Peterson and then LCDR William R. Fern. On 08/01/98 Charles Hefner said: I was EMC/ENG2 from 86-89 one of the best tours I've had. I'm retired (ENG3) and living in Baltimore MD for now. Would love to hear from any crew from that time. On 07/21/98 Tom Bunch CWO2 (Bosn) Ret. said: Served onboard CGC CONIFER from Jan 80 to Nov 82 as QM1. Made QMC and was sent to the beach because I had to many years of sea duty. The CGC CONIFER was berthed at Ft. Macon, Atlantic Beach, NC. We use to sign all the aids we serviced with a conifer tree. Would enjoy hearing from any of the old crew. On 05/20/98 John Weaver said: Crew member from 69-71 as the GM3/2. Home port was old Base Portsmouth, Va. On 05/11/98 Danny said: Howdy I was on the Conifer in 65 and 66 as a fireman. Anyone elseout there from that period. On 04/01/98 Jack Oliver said: Ahoy ye olde shipmates!! I was an ET2/1 aboard the CONIFER 79-82 in Atlantic Beach, NC. On 01/22/98 LeRoy Trnavsky said: Like to hear from any crew members from the fifties ! My rating was sonarman second class and at that time she was fully armed and homeported out of Morehead city N.C. Skipper was Lt Allen Armstrong who now lives in La Jolla California. Conifer now homeports in San Pedro Ca. but will be decommissioned in the not to distant future from what the crew tells me. Had some exciting times with a great bunch of fellows. Like to see all of you at our next reunion. Had crewmembers from the fifties to the nineties at the last one in Morehead city. On 01/21/98 JoLynda Bitley/Morales said: I was a FN on Conifer from June 88-April 90. Great crew. I still keep in touch with a few. Would love to hear from more. Enjoyed being a female in Main Prop. A lot of proud 'big brothers' to work with. Thanks guys. On 01/03/98 Rudy Angst said: Just updating my E-mail address On 12/20/97 Sheila Briggs said: Hi, Sheila here, I was one of the original females stationed on Conifer(86-90) Had a lot of fun, and also did a lot of work. The crew was one of a kind and the command (EXCELLENT). I still keep in touch with a few of the old crew but would love to hear from the rest of you. On 10/06/97 Rudy Angst said: I was stationed aboard her from re-commissioning in 86 to 87 and again 90 to 93. Just couldn't get enough. Good ship! On 09/19/97 Allen NelsOn said: Reunion held in 95 and 97 in Morehead Cityfor former crew. We have been looking for all former crew, particularly from 1950's when homeported at Morehead City/Fort Macon. Lloyd Michaels, Harkers Island, NC is chairman of reunion committee. Contact me and I'll provide address so you can be included next time. CGC GENTIAN hosted past two reunions. On 06/07/97 Donald (Little Boy )Austin said: 51 and 60 Hello to all my shipmates from little boy ,Donald Austin On 06/03/97 Ed Swift said: I am a plank owner of Conifer. On board at Duluth , Minn. 1943.Was on weather patrol out of Boston On 04/17/97 E.W.Ryan said: Anyone out there assigned to the Conifer in April to June of 1969? There was a BM1 on there that had a private pilot licence. She was berthed in Portsmith Va. at this time. On 04/11/97 Larry Wade, YNC, Ret said: Served as YN1 1972 - 1974 when she was at Base Portsmouth. Lots of good memories. Served with Jim Sepel, Keith Lewis and Fred Marasca. On 04/02/97 LT Michael Sabellico said: I was XO on CONIFER from 94-96...exciting tour. I'm teaching at USNA now.....miss the west coast and the sunny weather. CONIFER has the best OPAREA in the CG! On 02/16/97 Edward Ryan said: I was assigned to this work boat rigght from Boot about 28 years ago. Belive it or not I do enjoy going out on it. I didn't like standing look out near the Fog horn during fog situations. On 02/07/97 Edward Ryan said: I was assigned to the Conifer in March of 1969 (I think) It was berthed at Portsmith. Anyone know where it is now? Thanks On 02/02/97 greiner nichole said: stationed on conifer now -QM3 On 02/01/97 Larry Bailey said: Was onboard as a QM3 mid seventies when Conifer was homeported at Atlantic Beach NC. On 12/02/96 Brian Painter said: Hello shipmates! I'm doin great here in Sitka, AK. The Air Station is fun, I've had lots of exciting MEDEVAC's. I am due to transfer summer 97, hopefully to Kodiak at the clinic. I'd like to hear from anyone who was stationed on the Conifer from '93 to '94. Hope to chat with ya later! Brian "Bullfrog" Painter, HS3 Go to top Copyright 2007 Military Advantage, Inc.