OLD Reunion Hall Table for:
USCGC Spar
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On 02/29/08 Jon Nickerson
said:
Bob, thanks for hosting this blog. I served 84-86 and fell in love with life aboard a
buoy tender. SPAR was my first ship straight out of the Academy. Ens Taylor (now Rear Admiral)
was my mentor along with the rest of the wardroom... Capts Thompson and Gentile, XOs Polombo and
Cussin, Ens Clough and Sheaves, CWOs Ripley, LIC and Bo Dudley, Doc Price and a great QM gang (I was
OPS Boss so I have to suck up to the three stooges). Boothbay was definately a favorite port call.
And yes, I survived Moulton Ledge and still have the bumper sticker. I retired last summer to
Stonington, CT. My best 10 years were all at sea. I hear the new SPAR is heading to the Northwest
Passage this summer... very cool. Thanks to everyone who served with me... great memories and a
great start to wonderful career. I'll try to post a painting I did of Spar back in 85. You can
also see my work and other icebreaking photos on my blog at http://jhnickerson.blogspot.com/
On 02/09/08 Bob Durgin Jr
said:
I served onboard from 1982 to 83 and went from BM to Qm3 and then had to move on to USCGC
Spike out of Mayport Fl. I was a former squid and caught alot of abuse for that . I realized once I
was in the CG that I should have enlisted in the guard in the first place. I wish i could remember
more names but I do remember Paul mains aka stretch who was my hometown boy from lewiston/Auburn and
Glenn lapsley, lenny borges who specially made me cream of broccoli soup, it was delicious. I
remember Ollie (Oliver Stuart) I also remember the medic who had alot of time on his hands so he
would go to the bridge and cut fixes with us QM's. I remember the QM1 at the time who inspired me to
strike for QM and was thankful for his help and inspiration. I was sad to hear the Spar was buried
at sea but I guess that's the way it go's with the fleet sometimes. If anyone is interested in
contacting me please do. To all coasties, be safe and enjoy life to the fullest.
On 01/30/08 Jack Kahn (Tex)
said:
I served on the Spar for only a couple of months-March & April-1946 & was then
discharged-I was a cook striker. I will be 81 this March-I have a few photos if anone is interested-
Also I wouldmlike to know of any future reunions.
On 10/25/07 Nwa Igbo
said:
Hello i was in the group of 1970.I am here for now
On 09/14/07 Eric Miller
said:
Mitchy the kid where are you./Was Mk3 on decomissioning crew of the Mighty Big
Canoe. Miss the old wreck deck wars, watch out Gumpers going to check your oil! Hey who pitched the
bitch book? Hope all you guys are well. Hey who let Chizz eat pickled eggs again. Man he was
foul!!
On 08/22/07 Jeff Dutra
said:
Hello to all who served with me 92-94. Sebol (Mr. Margaritaville), Lonnie (did you marry
Nicole?) Mr. dudley (I made a fresh pot of coffee for you sir!!), CDR Stiles (Sorry about being a
pain), MK1 Foster (thanks for the training), Hoss (thanks for protecting me on port calls) ,
Frankie ( I still hope you enjoyed my rack and you still owe me a Coast Guard Opis poster), Ken
'Flanders' Horn ( the next time you hit you thub with a hammer just remember GOD knows that your
saying. And to eveyone else who served we had some good times and I am proud to serve on her. Thanks
for all the memories. I just found out about the reunion and won't be able to make it due to the
lack of time . But here is a quick history of me. After I left SPAR I went to MK 'A' school, got
stationed on the Couragous, then went to Station Cortez, got out of active duty on Sept 13th 2001,
yes 2 days after 9-11, became a paramedic for my county (imagine that) got recalled in Feb of 10
months as a reserve. I stilll reserve and am a paramedic in Bradenton Florida. Married me a redneck
girl 10 years ago and have two kids. I got some good pictures of the boat and old crew members if
anyone wants to see them please email me and I will send them to you.
On 08/09/07 Richard Funk
said:
Served on her 63 to 66. Great memories of Pete Peterson and me at the Nantucket Lightship
at night in heavy seas. Would like to hear from anyone from that time. Where are the Wilmont
brothers?
On 07/22/07 Dave Wyman
said:
I served her 1980 to 1982 most intence part of my life, look back with pleny of smles.
i went to MSO Portland and got out in 84
On 07/12/07 Dick Snyder
said:
Was on the Spar 60-61 Note email change
On 06/12/07 Robert Durgin Jr
said:
Onboard Spar 1982 and 1983 Started as BM and struck for QM. Made QM3 and went to USCGC
Spike Mayport Fl.
On 03/30/07 Ray Milne
said:
Served on The Love Boat...oops, I mean SPAR 85-88...remember parking on Moulton Ledge
once.....Stay safe all.
On 02/25/07 GORDON HOLDEN
said:
I SERVED ON THE SPAR FROM 1956-1960 NICE TO SEE SOME NAMES I REMEBER
On 02/25/07 gordon holden
said:
On 12/23/06 Joe Emidy
said:
Served on USCGC Cowslip from 62 to 64. Skipper was Lt. Cmd. WWW (Warren W. Waggett) - can
you believe it. A lot of super memories - P Town patrols at Christmas - towing Japanese fishing
trawler back to Boston. At time I was HM2. Love to hear from any shipmates. Best friends - Billy
Shuster, Lubbock, Tx. BM3 and Bobby Harkins, SN2 from Hopkington, Mass. Had great times on
Commercial St. in Portland.
On 12/02/06 Ron Bugenske
said:
Chief Ski Aboard; Served aboard SPAR from 70-74. Still recall every valve on her. Our
trips to and records we set at Little Creek, CWO McDevitt going over the side after engineering big
E. I'm proud to have served with the crew and officers, to call them shipmates. Both the crew andthe
Spar was and still is an outstanding part of my life. Took the proud girl to So. Portland andretired
off her Sept of 74. New E-Mail Address.
On 10/14/06 Eduardo F. Cidade, Sr.
said:
It's been a while my mates. Miss you all. Now living near Beaver Falls, PA and
remembering a fantastic bunch of guys. Would really like to hear from ANYONE.....I was onboard
1979-1982. Quick update: I am semi-retired and a consultant to passenger, cargo, and medevac air
carriers. Selina works for American Eagle Outfitters. Lil Ed? Our son? A licensed aircraft pilot
and technical writer living in Atlanta. Melissa? Our daughter? A professional statistician living
in the Washington DC area. A finally....I am a grandfather! Margaret Rose born Christmas Eve 2005,
what a present! write or call ... phone is 724.846.1474
On 10/13/06 Don Starr
said:
I just read all the posts , she was scuttled on my birthday , how weird is that ?
On 10/13/06 Don Starr
said:
I suppose I should say Spar 71 - 72 . . Al was my best man , and my mind is gone , how
bad is it when you can't remember you ushers names . Wait , Harry are you out there ?
On 10/13/06 Don Starr
said:
Just stumbled across this site Al Penny was my best man . Haven't touched base in
years . I see his posts are old , but hope to hear from Al and any others shipmates from 71 - 72 .
Any one remember our departure from St Johns , when we had to put the gangway back over to let Capt
Kileys visitors depart ?
On03/22/06 Gump
said:
Change of address for all those that served on SPAR between 1994 and 1996. Drop me a
line.
On02/18/06 dennisburkhead
said:
if there is someone out therethat knows dennis burkhead who was aboard the uscg cutter
confidence 210- 1971to 1973 contact me cherrina30@yahoo.com
On02/16/06
Muster Host
said:
Last call for the Icebreaker Muster! All registrations must be in by March 15. To date
about 140 rooms reserved for the week long event in Laughlin, Nevada. Check out the website,
www.icebreakermuster.com for all the information. My promise is, “If you don’t have a good time in
Laughlin, you can take me out on the fantail and kick my a**”.
On12/29/05
Ron Treisch
said:
Ron Treisch, Served on Spar 92-93 under DC1 Seehagen. Fireman, striking DC. Served under
Cdr. Stiles (Mr. A.T.O.N.) Salty Peterson and CWO Bob Dudley.Hello to any crewmember that may
stumble upon this as I did. Hey to Lonnie Freeman, Mike (hoss) Locke, Ken Horn, And the rest of the
engineers. Proud to have sailed on this historic ship. It was the time of my life.
On12/03/05 HM3 Chris Merli
said:
Served in 1971. I remember Jim Mc Devitt and Rich Foti. Saw the New Spar in Portland,
OR when on its way to Kodiak, AK. Thank you for this wed site.
On10/20/05
Arthur Solvang
said:
Regret no recorded pages for 1958 - 1959 Arctic Plotting etc.
On09/05/05 Alan Hankh
said:
Hey old shipmates of the USCGC SPAR 1988. I am out here in CA now still singing sugar
mountain and working on CG island with the big boys. The Spar was my last sea duty in 88. Not bad
for an OS. I miss the mid-watch flying bridge lookout watches and heat and beats. Those Crazy BM'S
also and crazier cooks..DEZ, fighting with Fred, and learning to love Metalica listening to Brets
tapes.
On06/17/05 Louie LaRiccia
said:
NOW HEAR THIS!! For those not aware - The Icebreaker Muster will be held May 1 to 5, 2006
in Laughlin, Nevada. For full information, go to icebreakermuster.com. This will be a sellout!
On05/02/05 David (Pete) Peterson
said:
I was saddened when I learned of the Spar's ultimate fate. After reading many of the
emails, I came to realize she was a buzy little bucket. I served aboard in '57 NWP voyage as EM3.
On05/02/05 tatum
said:
Looking for Hans Flaatrud-Need important papers signed.
On
04/27/05 dawn
said:
Looking for Hans Flaatrud-daughter needs important papers signed for personal records.
On04/25/05 Harry Walsh
said:
Harry Walsh & Joseph Blanchard served on the Spar during the 1957 trip up in the Artic.
Looking forward to the reunion.
On03/20/05 Bill Cote
said:
Sorry to hear about Marco, It's my first day to the sight He was a great sailor and friend.
I was on the Spar from 85-86 and would like to hear from anyone who remembers me.
On03/20/05 Rick Fahrney
said:
Served on the Spar 1989 to 1990. So she finally made it to the scrap yard. (I dreamed of
this, many times on the mid-watch!) If any of you crazy bastards find this, (Fred, Catasus, Al,
Lahair, George Ruhland, Gunny, Yoda, Opie, and many I cant remember right now..) Drop me a line. I
have a rock video, that I made from various clips of our journey's,, that plane crash in NY, and
several other mis-fortune's. (Ours and others) It has 'Welcome to the jungle' and 'Jump'. It is
trickery with the camera,, looks like we were having a good time.......More mussels please!
On02/21/05 Rich Notestine
said:
Hey shipmates --- Was stationed on the Spar when she was tied up in Bristol and took the
trip to the North Atlantic and to Europe with her in the 60's. Also was on her when they traded the
Cactus for the Spar. It was a bad day for us because the Spar was in much better condition because
of the pride we had in taking care of her. Would like to here from anyone who recalls my name.
On12/15/04 JP Leonard
said:
Wishing all of those to whom I sailed with while stationed aboard the Spar WLB-403 a Very
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
On12/03/04 Jack McLaughlin
said:
Haven't been on the website in a while. Unfortunately have some bad news on a ship mate
that has sailed; Marc 'Marco' Christopher Blanco Sr., SSC, USCG, (Ret.) Marc 'Marco'
Christopher Blanco Sr., SSC, USCG, (Ret.) U.S. Coast Guard Veteran, Merchant Mariner Portsmouth,
New Hampshire - Marc C. Blanco, Sr., 49, died peacefully Tuesday November 16, 2004 at Portsmouth
Regional Hospital. Born in New Haven, CT, March 11, 1955, to the late Mario R. and Doris (Blue)
Blanco, Marc enlisted in the United States Coast Guard at the age of 17 in March 1972. While rising
to the rank of Chief Subsistence Specialist, he sailed the seven seas on the U. S. Coast Guard
Cutters NORTHWIND, BIBB, DUANE, CHASE, ACTIVE, RESOLUTE, SPAR, and RELIANCE, and was on the First
Coast Guard District Advisory Team and spent time at LORAN Station Lampedusa, Italy in the
Mediterranean Sea. His achievements include: the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, Coast Guard Battle
Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal, Permanent Cutterman's Pin,
Coast Guard Unit Commendation, Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Award, Coast Guard Bicentennial Unit
Commendation, Antarctic Service Ribbon, Arctic Service Ribbon, Humanitarian Service Medal, Coast
Guard Special Operations Ribbon, Sea Service Ribbon, Restricted Duty Ribbon, and the Coast Guard
Marksmanship Ribbon. His leadership skills and respect for Coast Guard traditions and the true
meaning of Shipmate, made him a natural mentor to all who served with him. Even after retirement in
March 1992, he visited Coast Guard Cutters when in port to see friends, and welcomed visiting
Cutters and crews to offer assistance with local information and vendors. Marc continued his
passion for the sea in his field as a Merchant Mariner serving as a Plankowner on the Maine
Responder in Portland, Maine, followed by service on Oil Industry Survey vessels in the Gulf of
Mexico, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean, and research vessels with Woods Hole Oceanographic
Institute (WHOI), Massachusetts. He seagoing travels took him to six different continents. For the
past three years he served as the Cook for the Khi Omega Sorority House, University of New
Hampshire, Durham, NH. Marc was a proud member of the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer's
Association, The E7, E8 & E9 Club of South Portland, Maine, The Portland Maine Cutterman's
Association, The USCGC BIBB Association, The USCGC CHASE Association, The Fraternal Order of the
Eagles, South Portland, Maine and VFW Post 832, South Portland, Maine. More recently, he was the
Service Officer for American Legion Frank E. Booma Post 6, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and was a
member of the BPO Elks Club, Portsmouth, NH. Surviving are his three sons, John A. Blanco and
wife Mary of Bangor Maine, Marine Sgt. Jason A. Blanco and wife Angela of Twenty-nine Palms, CA,
Marc C. Blanco, Jr. and fiance' Nina Griffin of Portland, Maine; ex-wife and friend Teresa Esposito
of Windham, Maine; and a brother Mario C. Blanco and wife Carol of New Haven, CT, and three
grandchildren, Joseph, Sarah, and Ashley. He will be sadly missed by all his Shipmates, and many
friends throughout the country. Marco was cremated and his ashes will be scattered over the CGCs
DUANE and BIBB off Key West, FL at his request, and at the convenience of the family. A memorial
service will be held on Saturday, December 4th at 1pm at Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home,
Woodford Street, Portland, Maine.
On09/22/04 Randy Grits Rickson
said:
Hello sailors,i served on her from 83-86 .I am a yacht captain in ft.laud now, Wow what a
time the days of spar were, fond memories of all you mullets!! Fair winds and following seas me
friends.
On09/20/04 john
said:
you suck!
On07/22/04 Chip from Brantingham NY
said:
If anyone can help me find SA Hans Flaatrud from I think a class that would have graduated
in August 1977 or maybe if you have an idea of where I could research him. Please email me at
KAPYK@aol.com
On07/04/04 Kyle Songer
said:
I served on the Spar from 80-84. Would love to hear from any of the crew who served during
that time.
On06/22/04 Wes Splettstoesser
said:
A reminder to all Members: Portland, Maine Cutterman’s Association Annual Business
Meeting to take place on August 7, 2004 at the US Coast Guard Base South Portland, Maine. More
information contact Wes Splettstoesser / Secretary at wesspletts@msn.com
On06/21/04 Michele
said:
My grandfather served on the SPAR from 1951-1953.
On06/20/04 J
Hall
said:
Sorry lads but the might SPAR has been laid to rest. On the 10th of June, she took her
last breath and quietly slipped into the depths 30 miles from Morehead City. She sank in less than
an hour to a depth of 108 feet where she is resting on an even keel. Before she went down, she let
out a sigh most likely from her chain locker judging by the rusty mist that emanated from her
focsle. Video will soon be available on the Dominion Marine Group website.
On06/12/04 Ty Mullis
said:
Hello to all shipmates. Remember Captain Stiles, Nick, Striffler, Andy, Yoda, Smoothie,
Doss, and quite a few others. Hope you are all well
On06/09/04 Rich
said:
good morning all ex ship mates
On05/30/04 Dave Brusewitz
said:
My father was stationed on board from 74-76. His name is Dennis 'Buzz' Brusewitz if anyone
remembers him please email.
On04/30/04 gaby keen
said:
new e=address ahoy to all mates
On04/11/04 Franz VonRiedel
said:
SPAR UPDATE: Greetings everyone... The SPAR's main engines and generators were removed
last month and are bring cleaned up to repower the push boat ROENOKE of the Vane Bros fleet. We
have boxed up truck loads of spare parts and odds and ends to save for the museum fleet. The
BRAMBLE and TAMAROA groups went through to find pieces they could use as well. Every last piece of
the SPAR is benefiting other vessel restoration projects. We may put together a story on the SPAR
for the local marine museum's magazine in Duluth (where she was built). If anyone would like to
share their tales of history and adventure aboard the SPAR, we would be glad to hear from you and
perhaps we can use it in the story. We have an agreement to sell her hull for reefing, a deal which
is scheduled to close April 18th. www.NortheasternMaritime.org
On
04/10/04 Mike Donate
said:
New Email
On04/07/04 Dave Harrington
said:
I was a guest of your skipper for a short working trip into Narragansett Bay 'way back
when in 1965 when she was homeported in Bristol. It was a great ship. Glad to see you guys are
keeping the ship alive.
On04/01/04 John Tracy
said:
Hello, 'served' on Spar as a reserve Quartermaster (Shag) from 1987 thru decom. Reading
the posting for the first time brought back a lot of great memories. Fondest memories had to do with
the 5 'Reftra' trips I made to Little Creek, VA. I am coming up on my 20th year and now I am
stationed at Group Portland ops center as a BMC. I still work on the ferry boats (Casco Bay Lines),
so please drop by for a ride if you ever get back to Portland Harbor.
On
03/25/04 Ted Scheeser
said:
Served aboard SPAR January 1969 thru May 1970 as Ops. The CO's were Dugan and Curry. XO's
were Parker and Allison. Spar was my first assignment as an officer (previous QM1). Good ship,
good crew!!! It's been a long time, but remember Pogo, Fenton, Macarra, Young, Lindley, Morehouse
just to mention a few.
On03/17/04 Al Stiles
said:
Been a while since I checked in to this page. Was CO of SPAR from 90 to 93. Changed my e-
mail. Remember Leo - good to see the posting from him. Just to let old shipmates know that I am
battling cancer now. Was certainly easier sailing the Gulf of Maine in the Perfect Storm (or as we
called it the no-name storm). Fond memory of QMC Nick having the OOD as we sailed into Portland to
the base in zero vis. Couldn't even see the pier from the bridge when they put over the heaving
line for line 2! Former XO Jim McCauley is a CDR now and heading out to Kodiak to take command of
STORIS this summer. Great challenges, great times, great crew.
On
02/29/04 Michael Irish
said:
Had some great memories on the Spar, and even met my wife while stationed there, Sept 84'
to Nov 86'.
On02/16/04 Franz VonRiedel
said:
The Northeastern Maritime Historical Foundation is a new organization dedicated to
preserving historic tugs and commercial vessels of the Great Lakes and East Coast. Late last year,
the SPAR WLB 403 was given to us by Bay Bridge Enterprises for use as a fund raiser for our
organization. With two members of the class (BRAMBLE and SUNDEW) being preserved on the Great
Lakes, we felt that the best use of the SPAR would be to sell her to support our other restoration
projects, including the 110' CG tug SNOHOMISH. While we were unable to find takers for the boat, we
received a number of offers for her parts and machinery, so we made the difficult decision to part
her out. She is currently being dismantled in our yard in Norfolk, VA. Two of us spent three hours
on her one night in January and in that short time we had all her systems operational. It was sad
to shut her down for the last time, as she still had a lot of life left in her. As long as it had
been since she ran, those mains only rolled over twice before they fired off. We are selling her,
piece by piece, if anyone wants any portholes or other mementos. We have also offered parts and
materials to the BRAMBLE group in Port Huron. For more information about the Foundation and our
preservation projects, take a look at our website: www.NortheasternMaritime.org
On01/11/04 Leo Flores
said:
Served aboard SPAR (WLB 403) from 9-90 thru 7-92. First Unit, and served with the very
best crew I have ever come accross during my time in the Coast Guard. Had a awesome deck force lead
by BMC M. Greer, and CWO C. Senn. Followed by in no particular order, Gibbs, Doss, Stevenson, Eply,
Brian McConnell, Shean, McDonald, Betencourt, Merrit, Guns Norm, Boats Sanborn, and who could ever
forget DOC. The man I almost made him crap his pants when I passed out on him in Sick bay, along
with QM1 Nickerson who wanted them to short sheet somewhere else when I was passed out in 1st Class
berthing. Our CO was CDR A. Stiles, XO Merrill (i think) and EO was CWO 'salty' Peterson. Thanks
for all the memories guys and drop me a line when you get a chance or if you still remember me.
On11/26/03 Jason Blocker
said:
Was on the decom crew of the Sapr. Drop me a line.
On11/17/03
RICHARD LEBLOND
said:
ABOARD USCG CUTTER YAKUTAT 1957 1961
On11/17/03 RICHARD
LEBLOND
said:
LOOKING FOR NAMES OF FORMER SHIPMATES
On09/23/03 Steve
Lynch
said:
aboard 1981
On09/23/03 James Cressey
said:
James Cressey jim@panax.com served 1974 to 1976 on the spar looking for Mac 3rd
class cook,my best man 27 years ago
On09/09/03 Randy Flood
said:
Gentlemen: My partners and myself are still looking into buying the Spar and converting
her into a research vessel. We are looking for any engineers who served on boards the Spar at the
end of her service life. If anyone has any information about her condition at the time of her lay
up, please contact me. Help us put her back to sea!!!
On08/18/03 frank
mandarano
said:
served on spar from 76 to 77,looking to hear from my old shipmates.
On08/04/03 Jack Tanner
said:
First crew. First Signalman. Wanna hear what she was like as a baby? Shook 'er down and
took 'er to sea.
On07/31/03 Steve Bessant
said:
I served aboard the Spar from December 77 through March 78. I figured if I got one chance
to live in Maine it might as well be in the dead of winter. Would like to hear from some former
shipmates. Even though my tour was short, the memories it produced have staying power.
On07/23/03 Randy Gates
said:
Hi I was the ET onboard the Spar from 1973 through 1975 is there anyone out there that
served during this time frame it would be good to hear from any of you. Well later and take care.
On07/20/03 Norm
said:
Gentlemen Went by scrapeyard where the Spar is. She is still in one piece.They haven't
touched her yet. Still looks good.But beginning to need some paint. Best regards to all
Norm
On06/18/03 Joe Quintiliani
said:
Chief Ashdon, your still kicking , Remember the Diver that came from The Eastwind .Joe
Quintiliani 69 - 70 .Remember diving in Curtis Bay with Long Johns ???? Have pictures .
On05/22/03 Chief Tony Ashdon
said:
Any one remember SA Alvan Woods of Wetmore, Mich who did the trip around the NW Passage in
the mid 1950's. Spar was out of Bristol, RI in those days. See the Boston Spar well represented here
by my collage educated deck gang and 'snipe' ship mates.
On05/19/03
MK3 John Brosnihan
said:
Hey Van Pelt what about the deckies... We were there too. Even though since then I have
been brought to my senses I still had a great time on the old pig!. So here is the list of Bouy Deck
Critters: Martin, Crotty, Freaky, Medic, Hammerton, 'Salty', Pesche, Raza, Haggerty, Daltwas, and
that 'OFFICIAL' engineer Blocker. Remember the tool box!!!!. Oh yeah there was a DC1 on board that I
seem to remember would run for his life when Kavorkian brought out the needle. One time he even
locked himself in the 1st class berthing. I was on from 96 till she went to the bone yard. Baltimore
was a great time.Anyone that I forgot I'm sorry! It will come back to me as soon as I submit
this.
On04/24/03 PERS3 Eduardo Cidade, Sr
said:
...just checkin' in...sorry to see that the old gal went to razor blades. there had to be
a better way, right? well, aside from turning her into a museum.....but what the heck.....did we
just pour our hearts out into a machine that floated on the water.....did we just leave our families
for a bucket of bolts that would do anything and go anywhere.....did we just waste some of the best
years of our lives.....did we see each other through some pretty tough and very sticky
situations.....and was she worth it? to answer that and other questions, we need only to look
toward and at each other.....My answer is, HELL YES! The little old black ship that guarded us was
worth every drop of sweat, every tear, and every ache and pain we went through. Well....all of you
out there in cyberspace.....if we don't exchange e.mails....I'll see you when we meet our pilot and
cross the bar.....WLB 403 -- DEPEND ON ME!!!!
On03/26/03 Chris Van
Pelt
said:
Jesus, I nearly forgot the Portsmouth incident, isn't that right we we pierre. Or should
I say look out for that rock Martell.. Two sub pumps, and a blidge pump were just breaking even.
That is until the mighty eductor was dropped into the mix. I can still remember the size of kiernan
boys eyes when I told him to crank up the P250 to 180 psi. Or how about taking out the shaft bearing
in Key West and then taking it out again in Portland a few months later. Or for that matter how
could we forget the main board fire and being towed back into portland backwards. I am saddened to
hear it went to a scrap yard. I think it was in great shape for a 50 year old boat, especially the
plant. I have no doubt that it could have lasted another 10 years (and that's 10 years of working
buoys). GUMP, I sent you an e-mail with my work address send me an update on how your doing.
On03/11/03 BM1 Dan Wenger
said:
Hey Gump. How's everyone doing? I have seen Haggarty, Hammerton recently. Mr.(CWO)Van Pelt
moved to DET Sandy Hook while I was there. I'll never forget that grounding and the fires onboard. I
remember George and Chris taking the fly-wheel off the main so we could get at the hull crack.
On03/06/03 Jason
said:
I was on SPAR from 1994-1996. I was a FN and was aboard during the great Portsmouth NH
ooooooops. you all that were aboard know what im talking about.. or how about the Great Duck Light
fiasco...or even surfing both of our small boats ashore? I remember. if you were on board during
this time frame. please email me. GUMP
On03/06/03 JASON BAKER
said:
CHRIS VAN PELT....ITS GUMP....LONG TIME NO SEE... HOW HAVE YOU BEEN
On03/02/03 CHARLIE ALIENELLO, JR
7-3-63----LEFT YOU GUYS FOR 'FREEDOM' FROM DRY DOCK IN MARYLAND. LIVING IN WPBCH, FL SINCE 1967.
CLAJR
On03/01/03 Rick Fahrney
said:
Served on the Spar 1989 to 1990. So she finally made it to the scrap yard. (I dreamed of
this, many times on the mid-watch!) If any of you crazy bastards find this, (Fred, Catasus, Al,
Lahair, George Ruhland, Gunny, Yoda, Opie, and many I cant remember right now..) Drop me a line.
I have a rock video, that I made from various clips of our journey's,, that plane crash in NY, and
several other mis-fortune's. (Ours and others) It has 'Welcome to the jungle' and 'Jump'. It is
trickery with the camera,, looks like we were having a good time.......More mussels please! GET ON
THAT MAIN!!! Yes Chief.... P.S. If your a mess-bitch, and let the ketchup run out,, Heat-and-
Beat in engineering berthing! I think Im still bruised....
On02/28/03
Norm
said:
CGC Spar now at Jacobson,s in Cheasapeak,Va. Sorry to say Jacobson,s is a scrap
yard.Thought you would like to know Best Regards Norm
On02/06/03 motor
mouse
said:
hi abe sent an email to you. hope you get it. good to here from you.
On02/05/03 Abe
said:
Beaudry! Now there's a name from the Spar I haven't heard in a very long time! Hope all is
well for you! I will never forgive you for leaving me stuck with mess cook duty at the time of the
last Argentia trip! (just kidding!) Any of you other old men out there from the time, give a yell if
you want!
On01/27/03 Jim Gill
said:
Saw SPAR advertised for sale in Boats & Harbors. Good luck to Randy Flood and others
interested in buying.
On01/18/03 motor mouse
said:
I would like to know if any one on the Spar during 1970-1971 still reads this cloumn any
more.
On01/17/03 robert beaudry
said:
Alan Penny My name is bob beaudry, motor mouse, do you remember me.
On01/17/03 Robert L. Beaudry
said:
Hi Chief Bugenske I dont know if you remember me. I served with you, in 1970-1971. There
was Windy, Keven Q. Fireball, Steve U., Race, I hope you are enjoying your retirement. Bob
Beaudry
On12/23/02 Randy Flood
said:
My name is Randy Flood and I am currently looking into buying the ex USCG SPAR. I am
looking for enginers who served on board her late in her service life to give me some insight into
her condition at that time. Would be grateful for ANY info.
On12/19/02
Phil Williams
said:
Looking for Tom Hawke. If you know his whereabouts, please contact Phil Williams
(Willie). Was on Cactus and changed over to Spar.
On10/17/02 John
Hagerty
said:
A link to the Spar for sale ad might be helpful.
http://www.hagertygrain.com/spar/sparforsale.htm
On10/17/02 John
Hagerty
said:
Anyone want to buy a boat?
On10/13/02 Leslie
Uhnak
said:
My dad was William Alley, was on the Spar in Bristol in 1957 - anyone remember?
On10/10/02 John P. Leonard
said:
I have an updated e-mail address
On10/04/02 paul, harry
f
said:
any shipmates from uss coast guard campbell wpg32 1957-1959 out there? i was damage
control 2nd class-looking forward to hearing from you!
On08/27/02 Rich
Foti BM3
said:
Served aboard the SPAR from 7/68 thru 12/71. You may remember me as grape the nick name
given to me by Gary Bamford. Had many great times and I have never forgotten my shipmates. Lets keep
in touch and maybe we can get together for a reunion
On08/14/02
Bobby Wilson
said:
Just to clarify,the Bobby from 79 80 Spar is Bobby 'Freddy' Wilson
On08/14/02 bobby
said:
served on spar in 79 80 i barely survived those drunken times
On07/22/02 Philip Pullara
said:
I am looking to hear about a Capt./Lt. Watkins, from Alabama. He/family served in
Kodiak, Alaska from '69 to '71. He had a daughter named LeeAnn. I would love to get in touch
with.
On07/19/02 Mike Donate
said:
New Email starlightmike@earthlink.net
On07/03/02 Chris Van
Pelt
said:
Let's see how many people I can remember from the 180' of law enforcement, humanitarian,
buoy tending thunder. TTT, mom, Guru, fert n fert, hanibal lecther, we we pierre martel, frenchie,
frankie bag of doughnuts, robo bobo, milk crate, gump, haaannkk, elmer fudd, whore master, fender
head, the bra wearer, johnny wadd, tomahawk, latoe, grandpa, roy roy the love toy, kavorkien, shit
box, grommet, piston fistacani, H/R cuff n stuff, kiki a.k.a. brizowitz, fast freddy doba, OB,
dinkowitz, crash, vern, thumbs, mitchie the kidd, ed the head, kiernan boy, hammer head, peshie,
turtle, buff the magic helmet, big sky, the big ugly, pete, of course me 'snap', arnold - pronounced
aahhnuuudde, spock, lumpy, randy, --too many good times to list. Some classic lines, and attempts at
fame. who keeps stealing my tater tots. hatchet wound, looks like a bucket of beef stew out of an
airplane. The V tube, soup bone, wewer gowing to work wong howers, who weft the officwers shower
own. Stabiwity, were going to push the fun button, both RHI's on the rocks at isle a heault. Having
378 feet of shit pumped into a 180 foot boat, the buff the magic helmet song. If I missed any of the
engineers names I apologise, if you weren't an engineer than you were just a passenger sucking up
precious oxygen that the rest of us needed. Good times were had by all.
On 06/26/02 tom keenan
said:
; our new email is quejaja@hotmail.com
On 06/26/02 Stuart Oliver
said:
Our new email address is faydog@wi.rr.com
On 06/12/02 Don Pulchtopek
said:
Served on both the Catcus and the Spar was there for the change over. Will be writing to
the guys I see I served with (66-70). So nice to see and remember some of the good times we had!
Some of us trying to get together and have a reunion - will be trying to contact all of you.
On 05/25/02 Ed Frekey
said:
Was on the Spar from 95-97 when she decomissioned!
On 05/20/02 Bill Reed
said:
USCGS ESCANABA, NEWBEDFORD MASS 1962-1963 USCGS YAKUTAT, NEWBEDFORD MASS 1965-1966
On 05/18/02 Ken Seabol
said:
Served on SPAR form Oct. 92 to May 94 then went to QM school. A Florida boy who never saw
snow and I get Maine. What a great tour! Lots of great friends. Sorry to see her gone!
On 05/09/02 Ron Bugenske
said:
Chief Ski Aboard; Served aboard SPAR from 70-74. Still recall every valve on her. Our
trips to and records we set at Little Creek, CWO McDevitt going over the side after engineering big
E. I'm proud to have served with the crew and officers, to call them shipmates. Both the crew andthe
Spar was and still is an outstanding part of my life. Took the proud girl to So. Portland andretired
off her Sept of 74. New E-Mail Address.
On 02/04/02 Stuart Oliver
said:
If anyone knows the whereabouts of Jeff Martin, Jeff Anderson Glen Lapsley, Ron Engler,
Randy Rickson, GM3 Thompson, Ben Clough, Tommy Keenan, pass along my email adrress to them plaese
On 02/01/02 Stuart Oliver
said:
I served from 82-85, seagulls still make me sick
On 01/31/02 Tom Daltwas
said:
Does anyone know how to find HAMMER?
On 01/09/02 Safare Horn
said:
hi! John P. Kee my name is Safare Horn and I just want to let you know that I love your
music and I like whatyou are doing with the kids in North car- oliner and that I wish every one will
do the same.
On 11/15/01 steven McInnis
said:
hi all i was on the spar from 85 to 87. i like to hear from any of the old crew. i was a
SS3.
On 11/09/01 Mark Warner
said:
I think I was on this bucket in 73 to 75...but I burned a few brain cells back then so I
could be mistaken! I see Eddie all the time..he lives in my neighborhood. Cheap bastard; I'll never
forget how he use to fill up the maple syrup bottles with kayro syrup. I still got the leather
mailbag I ripped off when I left hahaha. And I still wear my hat occassionally. Hey
Woody...howyoudoin?
On 09/08/01 Mike Jones
said:
Anyone know the whereabouts of Chief Pezzi? Served with him on the Spar in the late 70's.
He thought for sure Woody and I would be dead by now. Woody and I live about 20 miles from each
other. Woody has 3 kids I have 4. Time flys when you're drunk!
On 07/21/01 Bob Shaw
said:
I served on the SPAR from 1981 to 1982. All I remember is working bouys and stinking.
On 07/09/01 Patrick Wood
said:
Served on the Spar from 1977-1979. A good time was had by all.
On 06/30/01 Den Golden
said:
Went on the Spar when captain and crews swapped ships with the Cactus. Stayed on the Spar
until going to radio school on Governors Island 1967/68 somewhere.
On 06/15/01 Wes Splettstoesser
said:
PORTLAND, MAINE CUTTERMAN’S ASSN. P.O. Box 15172 Portland, Maine 04112 NOTICE OF
ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING 1300 HOURS – SATURDAY - AUGUST 4TH, 2001 AT THE RUSTY SCUPPER CLUB U.S.
COAST GUARD BASE 259 HIGH STREET SOUTH PORTLAND, ME THE MEETING WILL BE FOLLOWED WITH AN
OUTSIDE BBQ AT 1400 HOURS It is requested that you Respond by July 31st for Planning Purposes
Write, Call or Fax and Leave Message With Mike Monroe Tel: 207-767-4007 / Fax: 207-799-2571
Email: Cuttermans@aol.com Support Your Association By Bringing Your Year 2001 Annual Dues
Up To Date Only $10.00
On 06/09/01 Ugly Troll
said:
Hey Wayne! I spoke with Paul Cimma about 5 years ago, and he was in the Portsmouth area
at that time. Not sure of his whereabouts since then; he never got back to me. And btw, it was
72-73! :) 'Abe'
On 05/26/01 John Stansbury
said:
Was stationed on the Spar from '86-'89...Just changing my e-mail address. Would love to
hear from old Spar friends.
On 03/31/01 Wayne Rodrigues
said:
Got e-mail 'reunion hall' on Spar. Was on it '71-72. Looked through the messages and
recall names (Paul Cimma,Joe Edwards,Charlie Pina) and noticed a 12/96 message that Paul Cimma was
in Portsmouth,NH as a chef at Holiday Inn. Anyone know if he is still there?
On 03/28/01 GABY KEEN
said:
Helo to fello mates. on bd from '71-72. great crew many interesting trips. See many
familiar names, have Nick Crawfords address in Montana. Mike Hackette is stil in Boston area.
On 03/04/01 Frank Libby
said:
Spar was sold to a private individual and she is in transit from CG YArd to Camden, NJ
where the new owner hopes to use her as a salvage ship.
On 02/28/01 Bill Meyer,BM3
said:
Served on the SPAR from 6/67 until 10/70. Would like to hear from anyone that served on
the SPAR.
On 02/26/01 John Lindner
said:
John Lindner EN2 aboard SPAR 1956, 57. stopped by my Station and I showed him this
reunion hall. If you knew John and want to say hi you can write him at 2308 Harbor Dr. Pt.
Pleasant, NJ 08742. He was involved in the historic NW passage.
On 02/25/01 Daivd Hall
said:
I was on the Spar from 59 to 61,left as a YN-2.Just wanted to say hi to anybody who was on
board then...
On 02/15/01 Don Bulloch
said:
Just wanted to update my e-mail address. Was onboard in '57 when we made the trip around
the continent.Would like to hear from anybody from back then.
On 11/10/00 PAUL CONNER
said:
Just updating my e-mail address
On 10/13/00 Roger Hughes (SK2)
said:
New e-mail address! Was on CGC Cactus when we swapped ships in Boston Harbor. Stayed
aboard Spar until 68 when I was Transfered to Base Supply Depot. She was a great ship with a great
crew. Had many good times and memories.
On 10/09/00 Wayne Rodrigues
said:
Stumbled on to this site while looking for photos of Spar. Was HM3, relieving 'suirrely
Merli', from Mar '71-Apr '72. First time to sea was in foul weather, but what a great vessel and
crew.
On 09/10/00 Allan Starr
said:
Looking for shipmates I served with on the Spar in the mid 1960's. Thanks!
On 08/28/00 John Hagerty
said:
Does anyone out there know what happened to Spar after the decommissioning?
On 08/28/00 Norm Gerhard
said:
Served on Spar 1944 to 1946.
On 08/03/00 Tom Hadley
said:
I served on the spar between 93-96. arrived as a mk3 from 'A' school and made 2nd. had
some good port calls like key west for the cuban imigration. had a great crew who looked out for
each other. look forward to hear from any of the crew
On 07/17/00 Mike Roberts
said:
I served on the Spar between 1974 to 1977 from Seaman to BM3. We went to Cuba, Haiti,
Bahamas. Saw a huge storm on that trip. I will like to create a reunion. Back then, we had lots of
laughs and work with good people.
On 06/04/00 c. l. alienello
said:
anyone on that ''bouy snatcher'' from 62-63 drop me a line-----hogpwr13@bellsouth.net-----
alienello, charles l.[was] yn2
On 06/04/00 charlie alienello, jr
said:
was your yeoman on the spar in 1963--alienello. c.l. yn2---discharged from her in bamb,
md...while in dry dock---when they asked me if i wanted to be a 20 yr man i said yes ''4 in and 16
out'' had to get back to my racing at seekonk speedway---have live in w.palm bch, fl. since 1967
'e' me at --hogpwr13@bellsouth.net
On 05/24/00 Ed Price
said:
Served onboard the Spar from 1982 to 1985 as the HM, oops... I mean HS. Looking through
the list of names brings back fond memories. I hope to individually contact the names I do
remember. Write if you were onboard the same time.
On 05/04/00 Mike Donate
said:
New e-mail address cameomaxiblue@aol.com
On 04/08/00 Sam Smith
said:
was ops o on the spar when it was in bristol in the sixties. you might enjoy my coast
guard tale at http://prorev.com/mmcg.htm
On 04/05/00 Bill Pugliese (pogo)
said:
Served on Spar from '68 to '69 as RM2. Many good times. Captian thought I was nuts when I
showed him how to cook Black Mussels off of the buoys!. Would love to hear from old shipmates.
On 03/21/00 bob guspodin
said:
I was on Spar when we traded shipsw/Cactus I became cs3 on board we took her to Carib.Bob
Guspodin
On 03/01/00 Spar Website
said:
There is a Spar websight at http://www.hagertygrain.com/spar I've got quite a few photo's
on there already. I need more! Preferably pictures of crewmembers aboard Spar. Please contact me at
the above email.
On 02/29/00 DAVE DIXON
said:
What a trip! If the first ride wasn't great enough, seeing all you guys just brings it
all back. I served from Dec. 80 to 82(thanks, buffalohead) and again in 83. I see your out there
bags, jack, ed. anyone hear from the flaming warhorse KTS ? lets catch up
On 02/27/00 woody
said:
Ray dorman, contact me, woody of the spar crew
On 02/08/00 ED HUELSENBECK
said:
I SERVED FROM MAY85-MAY87 AS A DC3. I MADE DC2 AND TRANSFERRED TO STA NEW LONDON. I WAS
THERE FOR MOLTEN LEDGE AND THE HOLE BELOW THE DC SHOP. I ALSO REMEMBER HAVING TO REALIGN THE PORT
ENGINE BED AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.
On 01/27/00 Frank A. Soares Jr.
said:
Served aboard Spar Dec.61-Jan.63 when I got out of the CG. I was an EN-3 assigned to the
engineroom under ENC Allen. I also was the Spare Parts man Under ENC Simpson. EMC Levy was also in
Eng. division. I can remember alot of work and good times on board. Once we even delivered a fire
truck to Block Island.
On 01/25/00 Shawn Jervis
said:
I was on the SPAR from June 1984 to October 1985. I started as a deckie and became an FN
before I went to MK School. I got out of active and became a reservist in 1990 and presently
drilling as an MK1 at Station Golden Gate. I have wonderful memories of this great ship and met
great friends.
On 01/23/00 Joseph Quintiliami
said:
sailed as deckie 68-70.bmcm tony ashdon, bm1 red watts.bm3 pulch?????? names are gone
events forever. our invisable dog, song [in the year 2525] the improper, fathers mustache great
places to get ----faced. got a captains mast , left quarter deck watch fell asleep in
messdeck.serverd on 2 great cg ships eastwind and the SPAR.
On 01/05/00 John Leonard
said:
I was stationed aboard the Spar from 81 - 82 as a seaman. Received orders to AE school. I
was friends with Tom Keenen, Mark Wogaman, Glen Lapsley I remember Chief Coffee - great guy. Hope to
hear from anybody from that time frame.
On 12/23/99 CWO Ed Holmes
said:
Just wondering how any of the deckies I worked with are doing. Was onboard as 1st LT from
94 to 96
On 12/05/99 Jim Woods EN/MK1
said:
hi, i'd like to wish everyone ever stationed aboard the 'Lady' asafe and happy holiday
season. woody
On 11/09/99 Ray Dorman
said:
Joined Spar in Curtis Bay 9/69 with Bob Francis. Served on deck force in Boston until
5/72. Six Argentia trips, two yard periods, two fishery patrols, two groundings, one flooded
generator room, Little Creek, P'Town. Hello Penney, Seymour, Mr. McD., Mr. Walling, Tommy Hawke,
Woody, Chief Ski. Now keeping an eye on Boston Harbor from 32nd floor of 100 Federal Street.
On 11/06/99 Bob Hazelton
said:
Served onboard SPAR as QM1 from 77-78, then mutualled to MSO Portland, then to OCS. COs
were CDR Chuck Montanese, a crusty 'old Guard' officer if ever there was one, and CDR Winslow.
Worked hard, but partied hard, too. Good officers & crew.
On 09/21/99 Tom Wilkinson
said:
Was on Spar Jan 79 to Jul 79 as an SA. In those few months I never worked so hard and
smelled so bad in my whole life. Well, maybe I've smelled worse since then. Heard she was
decommisioned. Was she sold or scrapped?
On 09/13/99 Mike Walling
said:
I was on SPAR from Feb '71 to May '72. We had a great crew with Chief Tony Ashton, Red
Watts, Chief Ski, Mr. Mac, 'Fireball' Roberts and (for awhile) CAPT Curry. Anybody remember Liberty
in St John's? There is a new SPAR building out in Wisconsin. She is a 225' WLB 'B' Class due for
commissioning next summer. All the info is on the CG Webpage along with photos of the class.
On 07/12/99 Robert Brennan
said:
I was stationed on the SPAR from 1948-1950. After 49 years I still remember the good days
and nights on board. Had some great summer parties at Block Island. I was YN/SK2 I now live on Cape
Cod - Woods Hole did it, AKA Captain Kidd.
On 06/29/99 PAUL F. CONNER
said:
MEMBER OF DECOM CREW. GREAT SHIP, GREAT QM GANG.
On 06/08/99 Warren Leathers
said:
Served on Spar 1948-1949. Great crew. Falmouth and Woods Hole great ports. I met my wife
of 50 years in Woods Hole. She was from Martha's Vineyard. Her farther was a fisherman. Left the
Spar to go to US Navy school at Great Lakes for Firecontrol.From there I went to weather patrols.
What a let down. Would like to hear from any of the crew.
On 05/18/99 Karl Hansen
said:
Served from Aug 93 to July 95 (OPS officer for last 6 months). I am currently finishing
my tour (and time in the CG) at D1 (oan). Word on the street is that one of the future JUNIPER
Class, WLB 206, will be USCGC SPAR and stationed in Alaska. If memory serves it will Kodiak around
2001.
On 05/10/99 Vinny Catelotti
said:
Spar has a web site at http://www.hagertygrain.com/spar check it out.He is trying to get
photos of different years, get a hold of him if you have some. He's at john@hagertygrain.com
On 04/21/99 tom keenan
said:
tom keenan 80 83 remember me love boat cruise had lots of fun . hay hag do you still make
electric cool aid.
On 03/17/99 FSC DON YANKURA
said:
High gang! served on the Spar from 91-93, Stiles was the CO, good fair guy. currently at
MLCA Atlantic, Norfolk on the SAT team. Retiring at the end of 99, wish the best to you all, thanks
for all the memories!
On 02/17/99 SN Robert Costello
said:
lived, worked & played on the Spar,1985-87 until orders came for SK school.
Holway,Churchill,Ian,Stanz...we ran aground, on to Rockland for the winter.
On 02/14/99 Brad Leach
said:
I served on SPAR from 74 to 77 my first afloat unit. I was a cook with Eddie Costalles and
all the guys. Went to Cuba, replaced the Portland lightship with a bouy and sailed the whole East
coast.
On 02/03/99 HS3 Brian McConnell
B.Mcconnell/GruKeyWest@MailLant.uscg.mil)
said:
Was on SPAR from 91' to 94' as a deckie. Started with Doss,Stephenson,Bentencourt,
MacDonald, Chico, Merrit, Epley, GM3 Childs,BM3 Sanborn, and Doc Glenn Ward. Finished with Chase,
Brislin, Sheehan, Wiggie, Mikey Ayers, and Seabol. Had alot of 'interesting' port calls. Didn't
make it to the Decom (couldn't bring myself to see the ol' girl go), but did see the bell at the
DACOWITS conference in OCT97. Found out where alot of the gang went to, but would like to hear from
others. DECKIES RULE!!!
On 12/10/98 James (Woody) Woods MK1
said:
I came aboard the CGC Spar in 1970 in Boston and took her to Portland, me. and stayed on
board with Chief Ski. in portland.chief Ski and I changed many a heads on the coopers. One of the
best tours I had. Ed Costales SS1 was cook . I wish all Spar sailors a merry xmas and a happy new
year.
On 11/20/98 HUGHES, Roger
said:
Served aboard the Spar 66/67......would like to hear fromanyone that was aboard her at
that time.
On 10/16/98 Dick Snyder
said:
Dick Snyder My email has changed to rsnyder@ipa.net
On 09/20/98 Dave Milanak
said:
Duty assignment 1966. Served aboard the SPAR as EM1. Remember thetrip to
Iceland,Norway,Sweden,Kiel Canal in Germany anybody? We came back across the North Atlantic in
November that tossed her like a cork. I always heard the SPAR sank a couple of times besides the
Narragansett mishap, once at her mooring! Remember the fun trips to the lightship? Bristol was the
best place I was ever stationed in the 1st district. Local fishermen used to invite us uptown for
free beer and all the steamed clams you could eat for helping them out. Looking for an SN who went
to commissary school named Ron Rosenkranz [Rosie], from Chicago.Will answer all.
On 08/16/98 Freddie J. Turlo
said:
Served aboard SPAR from March 1961 to November 1964 as CWO. Retired in 1966 and now living
in Maine. Note: posted by Barney Turlo, Cap'n, USCG(Ret.), proud nephew who will pass-a-note
On 08/12/98 Bob Dudley
said:
Saw a lot of old shipmates during the Cuttermans Association's reunion here in Portland,
Maine!
On 08/11/98 Mike Donate
said:
I served onboard the Spar from 1984-1985. I was a Qm and not responsible for tring to form
a channel right down the center of Molten Ledge. I left the Guard back in 1987, and now I'm aYacht
Captain living in South Florida.
On 07/27/98 DC2 James Kline
said:
Served on the rolling black thunder of 180 power from Sept.94 tillMarch 96 as a deckie.
Had alot of great times and bonus bouys too.Hey, Frankie did you see Horhey made Chief! I told you
sir I wouldn't retire asa third class. Guy's e-mail me!! DC2 Pesche
On 07/07/98 Ron Bugenske
said:
Chief Ski Aboard; Served aboard SPAR from 70-74. Still recall every valve on her. Our
trips toand records we set at Little Creek, CWO McDevitt going over the side after engineering big
E.I'm proud to have served with the crew and officers, to call them shipmates. Both the crew andthe
Spar was and still is an outstanding part of my life. Took the proud girl to So. Portland
andretired off her Sept of 74.
On 05/14/98 LCDR Tom Vieten
said:
Served as CO from 93-96. Had best tour of my career, mostly becasue of the outstanding
people I had the pleasure of serving with. I'd love to hear from any of the old crew.
On 05/02/98 Vinny Catelotti
said:
Stationed on the SPAR from Aug '77 thru Dec '79. Definitelymy most memorable Unit. I did 9
years Active and now have12 years as a reserve. John Hagerty and I traveled back toMaine for the
Decommisioning. Shared some great memorieswith many old shipmates and ate huge quantities of
lobster!
On 03/15/98 Jeff Nickerson
said:
Served aboard the queen of the black fleet from 91 - 93. Did'nt want to leave. Definetly
one of, if not my absolute favorite tours. Great OP AREA, wardroom, Chiefs Mess, and crew. Steamed
from Cape Cod to Portland ME. in the perfect storm. Rode out hurricane Bob in a hammerlock V and
two 20k rocks over the side in Casco Bay. Restored my faith in the leadership of the CG having
common sense here. Everything we did had a clear cut purpose with tangible results. The crew
delved into each task with vigor and enthusiasm. And did we ever have fun on Libo! Was initiated
and accepted as a CPO here. I will consider myself lucky if I ever serve with such great shipmates
again. Thanks for the memories guys (and Lori). Jim - if you ever tire of my old truck - I will buy
it back from you!
On 02/09/98 John Foster MK1 (R)
said:
I did two tours on the SPAR- 12/74-3/76 and 11/89-6/92 Had a great crew both time I was
stationed on it. Enjoyed getting the E at REFTRA on my last trip. I sailed under the command of CDR
Stiles and really enjoyed the trips. Remember the last Ice patrol to all who was on while I served?
Hope all had a smooth sail while stationed onboard. Have mamy memories of our trips.
On 02/06/98 MKC Jeff Treubig
said:
I was a crewmember from 1978-1981
On 01/02/98 BRADLEY DOSS
said:
Stationed on SPAR from 90- 92 . Served with Mr. Stiles and the C.O. who was there before
him also.
On 12/05/97 QMCM Wally Chase
said:
Went aboard in May 1958 as QM2 and headed north to Greenland to sound out fjords for the
Dewline stations that were going to be built there. Was gone until late September. Stayed on the
SPAR until mid 1963. Made QM1 while aboard. Who can forget Sunday, January 30, 1961 when she ran
aground just north of Prudence Island in Narragansett Bay. The rock we hit was marked with a
unlighted buoy that was under the ice that covered the northern part of the bay. Water poured into
the berthing area and flooded the engine room. Water came right up to the level of the buoy deck.
Six Navy tugs from Melville came to our assistance and they took the ship to the floating drydock in
Davisville. The HORMBEAM, the 64-footer from Bristol and several small boats from Castle Hill were
there to help out. We had no heat and it was well below zero that night. A whole bunch of us was
crowded into the radio room just to keep warm. SPAR didn,t returned to regular duties until July
1961. The ACUSHNET from Portland towed the SPAR to the Yard in Curtis Bay. I enjoyed all the time
on that ship. A lot better than weather patrols. Would like to hear from any shipmates during the
time I was aboard. Retired in June 1978 as QMCM.
On 12/04/97 Dick Snyder
said:
As my memory returns around 1961 when I was on the Spar, Bishop was our operator, Otte was
the Bosun and I beleive Swithers was the cook. I was on 4 ships in 4 years so the names kind of run
together although I do have several pictures, some with names.
On 10/04/97 Dick Snyder
said:
Was on the Spar about 61-62 at Bristol RI looking for shipmates. Came from Boot camp as a
SN left as a EM3.
On 08/30/97 Bob Dudley
said:
Two tours: 1984 to 1986 and 1992 to 1993.First tour was as the Chief Electrician. Several
things took place that tour - Molten's Ledge and my appointment to warrant. SPAR was also my last
tour. I was the EO and retired Sep 93.
On 08/10/97 Leo Morehouse
said:
Ops Officer for 68 -69.
On 07/27/97 Mk1 Frankie Ballinger
said:
Frankie Ballinger, served two tours on Spar 86-89 and 92-95served with some of the
greatest people in the guard and gained some lifelong friends.
On 07/23/97 MK1 Ian Hunter
said:
I was stationed on the Spar from April 86 to Nov 89. Would love to hear from anyone
stationed there during that time.
On 07/19/97 Scott Holway
said:
I was on SPAR from 1985-1989.I got out for a couple years and then came back in as a FN.
I'm now an ASM2 and loving life. Hope to hear from anyone on SPAR between that time period.
On 06/24/97 Eduardo F. Cidade, CWO3, USCG, (retired)
said:
Was aboard SPAR from 4/79-4/82. Ship's YN2/1 (and other duties -- I think we can all
attest to that.) Remember every inch of her and could walk her in my sleep. God I think of the
stuff we all went through.......the great guys (and the not so great ones).......the *special* duty
runs that CCGDONE gave us like light house maintenance and lumber runs up the rivers to deliver
building materials for renovations.....the emergency drydocking in Newport, RI (in the middle of
winter).....Blowszer the dog......the infamous *party night* in the fall of 1981.......the records
we set at Little Creek......both times....we broke all records, then went back 18 months later with
a mostly new crew and broke all the records we set the first time....two yard periods in Curtis Bay
(remember how many cars we took on the buoy deck?....Ship looked like a floating parking
lot.....even the Yard Super was amazed.....Most times, she looked beaten and bruised but like all
good Coasties, rose to the occasion when God, Country, and her sailors called upon her. I'm proud
to have served with my fellow shipmates and officers and the thousands of young men and women
throughout the years. Always felt that serving aboard a ship....any ship....you leave a piece of
your soul with her. My proudest moment: Serving 3 years, then going back (twice) as an CWO2 MLC
Inspector and seeing that the dedication we had when I was aboard her NEVER faltered. Proud to
serve and equally proud to remember.....Having retired in 96, I'm a bit perturbed that word of
SPAR's decom wasn't spread through the retired community......glad to see it was dignified.....she
deserved it.
On 06/10/97 Al Stiles
said:
CO of SPAR July 90 to Oct 93. Went to the decom ceremony. Definitely a bittersweet
affair. Great to see old shipmates - but sad to see the old girl go! As I was browsing the reunion
pages, I thought they ought to bring back SPAR in the JUNIPER class (they are revisiting old
buoytender names for the class - my idea when I was at HQ). SPAR certainly has enough history to
justify the honor! Things such as circumnavigating the North American continent and being the only
180 named for something other than a tree or bush. I'm retired now and teaching merchant mariners
in Florida. I'd be glad to head up a campaign to see the name SPAR live on.
On 04/27/97 George Bond
said:
Think of the only 2 years I spent and the excellent crew members I had to work with. Made
this a fantastic tour! Teaching math in high school now (the thrill of a second career) and we
never thought we would stay in Virginia. Only 2 children when on SPAR, MESQUITE, ACACIA, and SPAR
but had 2 more in New York and only 1 left at home.
On 04/27/97 Dan Baumbaugh
said:
SPAR, BRAMBLE, and STORIS and their crrews will be honored at the Bering Sea Patrol -
Alaska Veterans Reunion Association's 1997 reunion in Laughlin, Nevada during the period 30 Sept.
thru 2 Oct. 1997. Special recognition will be made of these vessels' 1957 historic voyage through
the Arctic Ice and circumnavigation of the North American continent. For more information on the
reunion and association membership, please contact Jim Loback - e-mail at lob96jm@aol.com.
On 04/24/97 Royal J Comeau QMC Ret
said:
I was on her when she sank in Naraganssett bay, and went to Davisville dry dock and then
the yard.
On 03/17/97 Kevin "Abe" Seymour
said:
Hi All. Just a short note to let you know I'm leaving for awhile. Hopefully I'll be back
on this summer, but not sure yet just when.
On 03/10/97 George Regina
said:
I was on the Spar in Bristol, RI from 1955 till my discharge 1n '57. A great crew. I would
sure like to hear from anyone from that era. I attended the 50 year reunion in Maine in 1994, sorry
to have missed the decommissioning in 97.
On 03/08/97 Jonathan Huffman
said:
Served on the Spar from 88-91 with Stansbury. Anyone else from that time period?
On 02/22/97 Jack Cronin
said:
On Board 1977-78
On 02/21/97 John Hagerty
said:
I was stationed aboard the Spar from May 78 thru Oct 81.
On 02/08/97 John Stansbury
said:
Stationed on the Spar from 1986 to 1989...
On 02/03/97 McLaughlin, Jack
said:
I was stationed on the Spar from Jan, 78 to Jun, 82 as a SNQM to QM2. I'm now stationed at
VTS Prince William Sound in Valdez (of Exxon Valdez fame) as a QMC. Had a great timegrowing up on
the Spar in the Coast Guard. It was a great unit with a great crew. I'd love to hear from anybody
out there from that time.
On 01/29/97 Thomas (Tommy) Hawke
said:
I served between 68-69, had a great time. Love to hear from some of you guys. You may know
me better as Tommy Hawke.
On 01/26/97 William Smith
said:
USCGC SPAR will be decommissioned on 28 February 1997. All prior SPAR sailors are welcome
to attend the ceremony, to be held at 12:00 Noon at the CG Base in South Portland, ME. RSVP is
required, Contact YN2 George Kerekes at 207-767-0380
On 01/23/97 Kevin Seymour ("Abe")
said:
Just in case anyone is interested, I recently was informed the Spar is to be decommisioned
within a year. I'll post further details whenI get it. Also, for those of you who served on the last
Boston crew, do you remember Cowslip? Do you remember where we took her, and for what? Well, guess
what...she is STILL on active duty!!
On 01/12/97 Tony DiStasio
said:
I was the SK on the Spar late 68 early 69. Good duty.
On 01/11/97 Scott A. Backholm
said:
Spar was my first ship in 1983, I was a deckie for 12 months and then struck for 3 before
I went to "A" school in Orlando, Fla. Great ship, I loved it. I am know a QM1 stationed at the D1
Command Center. I just got off the White Sage (decomm). Its hard to believe that in about a year I
would have served aboard 3 bouy tenders that are decommissioned (Red Birch also). SAB
On 01/01/97 Kevin "Abe" Seymour
said:
Any Spar folks out there who made the trip with Bramble & Storis in '57? Just heard about
a reunion held each year of the "Alaska Veteran's Reunion Association." For '97 the reunion is to be
held in Laughlin, NV. in September & they intend to honor crew who served aboard the 3 ships when
the Northwest Passage trip was made.
On 12/09/96 Kevin "Abe" Seymour
said:
Hi Al. Hope all's well in N.Y. Bob Francis is still in Salem N.H. but they are building a
new house in Pelham. They are hoping to be in by February. I just bought a house in Shelburne, Ma.
Not too far from where I grew up. Hi Mr. McD! Bob & I missed you at the reunion cruise in '94. How
have you been? Dare I ask what you've been up to 'lo these many years later? The few of us who've
managed to stumble across one another of late have entertained thoughts of some sort of reunion of
"our" crew. Any thoughts on that? Any idea where any one else might be hiding? Good to hear from
you!
On 12/06/96 Jim McDevitt
said:
Shipmates from the past - Penney, Edwards, Seymour, Cimma - et al. Without a doubt - my
best sea tour (in my 30 year career) was the SPAR.She was my first tour as an SA (1950) and my last
tour as a CWO (1972).From SA to CAPT -all- were the best.That's why we earned our "E's" at Little
Creek. Amen!!!
On 12/02/96 Alan Penney
said:
Hey Abe, haven't talked to you in awhile! Paul is in N.H.? Do you have any idea where
anyone else is? What a great crew we had!
On 12/01/96 Kevin Seymour
said:
Hey, Al and Craig; I found Paul Cimma. He's in Portsmouth N.H., working as achef at the
Holiday Inn. I talked to him for quite awhile a few weeks ago. He's supposed to get back to me when
he gets settled. He had just returned from out west somewhere. (Colorado, I think.)
On 11/29/96 Kevin "Abe" Seymour
said:
Hi. I served aboard the last Boston crew. We transferred the ship to South Portland Maine;
her new homeport. Several of us then took the Cowslip to Curtis Bay for decommisioning.
On 11/27/96 Craig Lightle
said:
Al, Good to see you around. I've run into 'Abe' Kevin Seymour a few times over the years.
He's registered in the crew list.
On 11/26/96 Alan Penney
said:
Served aboard the Spar from 2/71-11/72 fresh out of boot camp. A great crew. Anyone where
Joe Edwards is?
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