USS Nitro Shipboard Crewbook Signin's

USS Nitro (AE-2/AE-23) Association

1960's
Shipboard Crewbook Signin's
http://www.ussnitro.org/1960.htm

IC2 1967-1969
WAYNE F. CALLEN MADTEL3@MADTEL.NET
MADISON, KS USA - Tuesday, 15 April 1997 at 08:51:13

YN3 Operations Division 1968-69. Talked to Bob Eberlein today and am looking forward to 1998 reunion.
James Timmons navy65-69@sbcglobal.net
Waukesha WI USA - Saturday, 5 Jul 1997 at 19:10:30

I was a fireman onboard AE-23 from 1964 - 1965
Ronald T Smith rtsmith@tiac.net
Bellingham MA USA - Saturday, 19 Jul 1997 at 20:19:57

RM-3 Operations division served onboard during 67-68. Great ship........Lot 'o' Fun
Jim Jackson JJACK65@aol.com
Casper WY USA - Tuesday, 9 Sep 1997 at 22:33:47

Came aboard as SA in October 1960. Left as RD2 on July 3 1964. I'm glad I got this ship FIRST. Made 2 med cruises, 3 to Gitmo, the entire Cuban Blockade and a North Atlantic cruise. We got the Nitro first in 1962.
Jack Van Tol jvantol@sbcglobal.net
Hurst TX USA - Tuesday, 09 Dec 1997 at 15:24:35

I served as a signalman between 7/69 - 10/71. I had the opportunity to attend the decommissioning of the USS Nitro in April 1995. Sounds crazy, but I made peace with both the ship and MYSELF at that ceremony. "Very Emotional for me"
Larry Hammerberg lar1072@yahoo.com
Paxton MA USA - Saturday, 24 Jan 1998 at 18:58:36

I served on the USS Nitro from 1969 to 1972, First Division, BM3. I have a lot of great memories. I remember the 2 Med Cruises and the Viet Nam tour. I attended the Nitro Decommissioning. It was a very moving experience.
Bob Theirrien bobcatoonma@prodigy.net
Saturday, 24 Jan 1998 at 18:58:36

I served on the Nitro from 11/63 to 6/66 as a Fireman in the A division. Made 2 Med. cruises and 3 Gitmo cruises. Would like to hear from anyone that served in that time period.
George E. Gregory III
Goshen NY USA - Sunday, 1 Mar 1998 at 13:45:27

Was a gunner mate GMG3 about one year of duty between 1964 and 1967
Barry Smith baracudda@verizon.net
Allentown PA USA - Thursday, 9 Apr 1998 at 08:01:39

YNC ...Went aboard NITRO on 12 Mar 66 in Rota, Spain...Went thru the conversion in the Maryland Drydock and was transferred off to the Pentagon on 23 Oct 67..Now living in Ada, Oklahoma....
Wyndell Walker, USN-Ret w5tzn@chickasaw.com
Ada OK USA - Tuesday, 09 Jun 1998 at 22:12:00

I served on Nitro from April 1962-October 1963. I was an Ensign, promoted to LTJG. I was the Ship's Legal Officer, X-Division Officer, ran Ship's Office, was Captain's Writer, Asst Communications Officer, Asst Gunnery Officer, etc. etc. Qualified OOD Underway.
John F. Foley, LCDR, USNR-R candj@monad.net
Friday, 03 Jul 1998 at 00:17:25

Aug '62 - Mar '64 BM3. Med trip Sep '63 - Feb '64. Dry docks in Brooklyn Naval yard. Discharged from Davisville RI. March 19, 1964.
Eddie P Cantrell dcan@iquest.net
Marshall IL USA - Monday, 13 Jul 1998 at 22:16:4

DC3 - Just found your web site. It was great! Served aboard the Nitro from Dec. 1968 until my discharge May 1970. Had some great times! Swimming with the sharks in the Med. Anyone remember old Pop Bell?
George Mattox Spark51@aol.com
Friday, 25 Sep 1998 at 21:30:52

Machinist Mate 3rd Class A-Div. Feb. 1966-May 1969.
Phil Wise dlwise@earthlink.net
Clearwater KS USA - Monday, 05 Oct 1998 at 21:14:12

What a pleasant surprise! I was aboard her as an ET from 10/68 (in Naples) to 1/73 (Subic Bay). Great memories. 3 Med cruises, who knows how many to the Carib, and 1 to the South Pacific via the Panama Canal. Some great ports and liberty. I have 3 or 4 cruise books and loads of pictures from cruises. Quite a few stories including Capt. Snyder's beer swim call in the Med, the 'Snoopy' detail, a not-so-wise decision to try and pull into Da Nang harbor, and the collision with the Oriskany off the coast of Viet Nam. Great memories.
Terry Richardson terry_33@yahoo.com
Nashua NH USA - Thursday, 21 Jan 1999 at 12:10:00

Onboard 1967 / 69 precom detail baltimore/gitmo grounding & pier ramming/med cruise/russian carrier chase/many other escapades/remind me of those that slip my mind.
Robert Palmeter rpalm@bellsouth.net
Wilmington NC USA - Saturday, 13 Feb 1999 at 22:15:47

YN-3, Deck/Cargo Office, Third Division, 12/69 - 9/71
Jeffrey F. Marlow forytwo@aol.com
Wilmington NC USA - Monday, 08 Mar 1999 at 00:32:10

I hold a plank owner card. I was on from 1959- Feb. 28, 1961. My rate BMSN (E-3). Would like to hear from anyone that was on at the same time. AL
AL Abhallock@aol.com
Monday, 15 Mar 1999 at 14:21:35

I worked on the deck crew when I first came aboard, but was transferred to the radio room while in the med. After completion of the med cruise in 1962(spring) I went to RM Class A school in Norfolk and then to the USS Salinan ATF 161 out of Key WEst Fla. I was honorably discharged in Jan 1965 RM3. By the way; I have what I believe is the original commisioning pennet from the USS Nitro. We took it down for some reason right after I went aboard. The old first class bosan told me it was the original. He had been on the ship since it was commisioned.
Wayne M. Misner bones@fidnet.com
Owensville MO USA - Sunday, 28 Mar 1999 at 19:06:59

Serve on board from 59 to 61 in the First Division as SN. I remember hanging out in the forward rope locker, we had a coffee maker there. Did the first Med cruise.
Ray Murray raymmm@bellsouth.net
Boca Raton FL USA - Thursday, 8 Apr 1999 at 09:21:09

I served on the Nitro from 1962 to 1964 as a seaman in 2nd division. I now live in Passaic NJ and would like to get in contact with old shipmates, especially John Bodino of Connecticut. I'm on a friend's computer (don't have one myself) so if anyone would like to contact me they can reach me at this e-mail address (MSmoAPA31@AOL.Com).
Sam Kobalkin MSmoAPA31@AOL.Com
Passaic NJ USA - Thursday, 08 Apr 1999 at 19:31:41

I reported aboard NITRO at ammunition anchorage Cannes, France in Nov of 1961 after chasing the ship all over the Med for a month. Arrived as PCSA straight from "A" school and left as PC3. I was ships Postal Clerk. PCS'd to NS Rota, Spain in Dec 1963, made PC2 and got out in 1966 I have many fond memories and more than one nightmare from the Old Girl. Such as The Cuban Blockade, the killer storm at anchorage at Genoa, Italy, the "FERRY" incident at Bremerhaven, Germany and the day LTjg Foley and I went off to the French Foreign Legion at Oran, Algeria. I would dearly love to board her one more time and perhaps make my peace with her. Just joined the Assn and am on Hot Standby to hear from any shipmates. May all your Watches be uneventful.
Henry M. (Marty) Hope kk4m@aol.com
Las Vegas NV USA - Wednesday, 21 Apr 1999 at 00:33:31

EM3 E Division May 1, 1959 To September 1960
John G. Mahler bmahler3@ix.netcom.com
Kings Park NY USA - Thursday, 06 May 1999 at 20:06:46

GMG3 68 to 71.
Evan Bush Evalbu@aol.com
Tuesday, 8 Jun 1999 at 19:22:13

Served on board during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Rating was GMG2. Served for 1 year.
James L. Waldrop frstclsgnr@aol.com
Anaheim CA USA - Sunday, 20 Jun 1999 at 14:38:59

I served aboard the Nitro AE-23 from 3/1960 to 12/1962. I was a SN with the 1st Lt.'s division aft munitions hole.
Raymond L. LaBonte RLab931602@aol.com
Thursday, 1 Jul 1999 at 19:38:48

BM2/BM3, 2nd Division from July 1967 thru February 1969 (Baltimore, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Yorktown, Earle, Charlestown, Boston, Davisville, Halifax (NS), Carribean (Racer Run), Miami, Gitmo and a Cuban beach, Med cruise), as Boat coxs'n, Bos'un of the watch, hatch captain, winch operator, etc. I'm looking forward to coming back aboard and meeting some old and new crewmates. My compliments on the structure and content of the webpage, it's very informative, as well as comprehensive ("NITRO PROUD" continues).
William S. McBurnie wmcburnie@state.pa.us
Mechanicsburg, PA USA - Thursday, 22 Jul 1999 at 02:07:16

HELLO MATES AND FELLOW PLANKOWNERS. I WAS ONE OF THE ORIGINAL CREW OF THE NITRO AE23. I WAS THE GUNNERY YEOMAN, YN3. I SERVED ON HER FROM THE DRY-DOCKS IN 1959 UNTIL JULY 1960. I MADE HER MAIDEN VOYAGE AND HER FIRST TRIP TO THE MED. I WAS RELEASED TO RETURN STATE SIDE IN JULY FOR EARLY SEPARATION IN ORDER TO BEGIN THE FIRST SEMESTER OF COLLEGE. I WAS PROMOTED TO YN2 IN AUGUST, 1960 AND RELEASED IN SEPTEMBER, 1960.
L. S. 'BUD' TINSLEY, JR.BudTinsley@computron.net
LAKE JACKSON TEXAS USA - Saturday, 31 Jul 1999 at 12:58:31

BM3 1964-1965
Ed Antich eantich@seanet.com
Monday, 23 Aug 99 at 08:25:17

What a great discovery! Served onboard 23DEC69-16APR72 as HM2. Retired HMCM(SS) NOV 90. Now working for Military Sealift Command in San Diego. Home: 619-220-8214 Already see familiar names, will cross check my cruise book.... hope to get in touch. Will update later! My earliest and best memories of active duty come from my first tour of sea duty aboard Nitro!!!
George J. Blanchard gblanch@cox.net
San Diego CA USA - Monday, 15 Nov 1999 at 13:29:24

Boarded USS Nitro in Naples, It mid August 1961 as a FN. Made the tour of Berlin (what a great time), Cuban blockade (did we get a ribbon for that). Left 16 month later as a SFP3 for the USS ARD-16, just down the road. After separation worked with my father, the New York City Transit Police Dept. Was retired in 1977 on a disability, the next 17 years I was with American Airlines, retired in 1995. A great country we live in. Would like to hear from any shipmates.
Gordon L. Casazza shield2347@verizon.net
Monday, 13 Dec 1999 at 21:21:33

Served aboard the USS NITRO AE-23, 1965-66, as an MMFN fresh out of MM/BT School, Great Lakes. I remember boarding @ Yorktown, Va., cruising up the coast to Earle, on up to Davis, R.I., then Over (and thru) The Waves for a Med Cruise. Anybody remember a character named 'Tiger', who made the unforgiveable mistake of emptying the candy machine (right after it was filled), then tried to double the price? Bad career move. The website looks great, my compliments to y'all. And of course, hope to see you in June 2000. Smooth sailing!
John A. Shuey jashuey@pa.net
Tower City PA USA - Thursday, 16 Dec 1999 at 19:04:51

EMC E-DIV 59-61 PLANK OWNER
Harold J. Odette hodette@triad.rr.com
Lexington NC USA - Thursday, 23 Dec 1999 at 21:15:09

I am a Plank Owner and designed the ship's plaque. Went through Nitro Pre-Commissioning Schools at Norfolk and commissioned the Good Ship USS NITRO on 1 May 1959. Was assigned to 1st Division. While in the 1st Division the ship ran a contest for design of the ship's emblem. I won 1st and 3rd place in that contest. I still have the original drawings. After the shake down cruise to Gitmo and a Port visit to Ciudad Trujillo (Now Santo Domingo) I got my GED on the Nitro with the encouragement of Lt. Charles L. Smith. I really wanted to be a Corpsman Striker but BOSN Wildermuth wanted me to stay in 1st division because I was trained to run the Electric Hydraulic Cargo handling transfer stations and was just a dam good Seaman. Finally got to go to Sick Bay and worked for HMC Dunn and HM2 Gonnoud. Left the ship around Aug 1960 via of a mail Helo on the fo'c's'le that flew me to a Carrier then to Naples Italy, then 2 days later to Morocco, 4 days later on to Anacosta NAS and finally to Hospital Corp School @ Glakes. Retired from Navy in Sept 1978 as a Chief Hospital Corpsman. I still have Commissioning Programs, Plank Owner Card, Large Colored Ship's picture with North Alantic Track Chart on left side and other pictures. Just hooked onto this site 1/1/00 any Shipmates can email me at OldNavyDoc@aol.com
James M. Hanson OldNavyDoc@aol.com
Colorado USA - Monday, 3 Jan 2000 at 15:56:50

Plank owner. As QM3 in 1959 until discharged in 1960 from Cannes France
Bill Keiler wkeiler@aol.com
San Antonio TX USA - Wednesday, 2 Feb 2000 at 22:37:53

ETN3 served on Nitro 62-64 in Ops division. One trip to the Med and the Cuban missile crisis.
John R. Maurer jmaurer@tampabay.rr.com
Wednesday, 22 Mar 2000 01:22:47

Just found the "Nitro" website. I served in the "M" division from Jan 65 - May 66. I reported on board at Rota,Spain as MMFN and left as MM3 as the "23" was getting ready for a yard overhaul. One of the best years of my life was on board the Nitro. Saw places I'll probably never get to see again. Thanks U.S.S. Nitro.
Robert Knoll rknoll5200@aol.com
Brooklyn Center MN USA - Friday, 31 Mar 2000 at 22:33:46

MM/2 M DIVISION FROM SEPT.1963 TO MAY 1966 WOULD LIKE TO TALK TO RUNT, TOM WIBBLES, OR ANY OF THE M GANG OF THESE YEAR'S.
Richard Pinder actmacrp@aol.com
Clifton CO USA - Sunday, 30 Apr 2000 at 11:57:42

I served aboard the Uss Nitro from 61 thru 64 assigned to Operations, as a Radioman, fresh out of NTC Bainbridge Maryland. I went from seaman to RM2 when I departed in 64. I had 2 med cruises, 1 Germany, many carribean, and who could forget Cuba. Looking for shipmates of the early sixties.
Russell (Tony) Garbutt rgarbut@optonline.net
Massapequa NY USA - Sunday, 16 Jul 2000 at 22:11:07

Served aboard AE 23 between 66-68 BM. Made Med. cruise. Played in a band while rearming in the Med. Would like to hear from Rainwater or Cordova. Found some pictures from Barcelona . Hope to get them posted
Joel Magallanes (Maggie) Jmag1234@cs.com
Whittier CA USA - Wednesday, 26 Jul 2000 at 18:44:24

BM3 First Division 1968-1970
Gary Corley gary corley@webtv.net
Monday, 31 Jul 2000 at 20:10:36

I was on board the Nitro from Sept 1968 thru June 1972. I was in the Engineering Division as an IC3. I was on board during the Hippie Canoe incident in New York Harbor when 6 crewmen jumped overboard to be with the Hippies. I was also on board during the two collisions with the same destroyer during replenishment. I would like to hear from some of the old E Gang crew (Jake, Blalock, Bowen, Price, Williams, Etc.).
Gary Bardelli Mdsaturngolf@aol.com
Wednesday, 26 Jul 2000 at 21:35:08

I came aboard Nitro 04 December, 1968, at Naples, Italy, and served until my separation in September, 1972. At my relief, I was LPO of 1st Division, and I left with a rating of BM2. I didn't know there was such an association in existence, and I am proud to be contacted and I hope to help with next year's reunion. Please contact me if I can be of further service.
Hayden Wiley, Jr. jkwiley@negia.net
Friday, 28 Jul 2000 at 20:55:05

I was checking the internet and found our ship was being scrapped. I was a original Plank owner abord our ship. The date of commissioning was 1 May 1959 out of Norfolk, VA. I am interested in association membership. My age is 60. Was in A division on board under captin Warren C. Hall Commanding officer. He was a Sub Capt during WWII. Look forward To hearing from you.
George Antellas Jr., Chief Engineer, I.B.E.W. GEORGEANTELLASJR@AOL.COM
Thurday, 03 Aug 2000 at 13:45:23

Sm3 - Aug 1961 to Oct. 1963
George M. Demko g.demko@comcast.net
Follansbee WV USA - Sunday, 24 Sep 2000 at 12:56:11

I just stumbled on the Nitro website today!! I was knocked out. I didn't know there was an association devoted to ex Nitro shipmates. Was on board from January 69 to January 70 having just finished up a tour in DaNang. I picked up the Nitro at Davisville just after she was coming back from a Med cruise. I was an SK 2 and I'm not sure you were on board when I was. I would really appreciate a reply to let me know when you left and if you know any other guys that we served with. I look forward to hearing from you.
Tom Ewing TEwing@hilliard.com
Friday, 13 Oct 2000 at 15:27:13

It brought back alot of memories (some good and some bad) of my duty aboard the Nitro. I served in the 1967 period and was a BT3, made BT2 (Oil King) by default. I chuckled when I had read other's account of the beaching at Gitmo, cutting the pier in half at Gitmo and the Russian ships. I have never forgotten the beer on the barge over the side, as long as yuo could swim, you could drink. It was quite an experience being in the boiler room, as close to hell as I hope I ever get. Again good to read accounts from others who served.
George Biddle george.biddle@conectiv.com
Friday, 13 Nov 2000 at 12:32:26

BMSN 2nd. Division (1960 - 1964). Live in West Virginia, disabled coal miner, loved the navy, but I loved my wife of 35 years more. I would like to hear from my shipmates.
Russell L. Sexton russae23@hotmail.com
WV USA - Sunday, 14 Jan 2001 at 01:20:39

BT3 A Division. Served on board Oct 1967 thru 1971 under Capt.'s Snyder, Smith and Howe. Remember playing guitars on the flight deck with Leroy Patterson, wearing long hair wigs. Did several Med cruises and still remember the smell of Naples harbor. Was there for the beaching at Gitmo and the pier cutting. It was great sport. Was there for the hippies in New York harbor, the swimming for beer in the med, being rammed by the JP Kennedy, and much more. If any of the guys are out there like, Tom Kren, Leroy Patterson, Carter Kelley, Gary Bates, Tom Moxley and Chief Buttery(Mr. Tatoo) would love to hear from you.
Mike "maddog" Buckman buckmanmike@yahoo.com
Kissimmee FL USA - Sunday, 21 Jan 2001 at 18:35:38

1965 - 1966 MM3 M - DIVISION. FOUND YOUR WEBSITE BY FATE. NEVER NOTICED ANY MENTION OF THE ASSOCIATION OR REUNION IN ANY OF THE SEAFARING MAGIZINES. I THOUGHT I WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT HAD AN AFFECTION FOR THIS SHIP. THE FOND MEMORIES, AND EXPERIENCES THAT I SHARED WITH MY FELLOW SHIPMATES HAS NEVER BEEN FORGOTTEN. AFTER LEAVING NITRO, I CONTINUED MY NAVY CAREER IN THE RESERVES AND RETIRED AS A MMCS IN 1993. AT PRESENT, I AM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF FACILITY OPERATIONS WITH THE CITY OF NEW YORK. YOUR WEBSITE IS OUTSTANDING! WILL BE SENDING MEMBER APPLICATION WITH ANNUAL DUES.
THOMAS PAPSODERO SEAMPARO@AOL.COM
STATEN ISLAND NY USA - Sunday, 21 Jan 2001 at 23:00:18

EN3 in "A" Division 64-65. Met ship in the MED. Was ENFN when I came on board. Made EN3 before transferring to an Ice Breaker 9-65. Enjoyed New Years Eve (1964) on the French Riviera. Remember coming across the North Atlantic in January, was almost the worst ride except for the time when we went through a hurricane to get back to homeport sooner. Great to see all the mail on this site. Sure makes a person remember a lot of things, good and bad.
Bailey George bwgeorge@hotmail.com
Houston TX USA - Sunday, 11 Feb 2001 at 17:02:41

BT2 - I served on board the Nitro from 65-66 and again from 67-71. I made 5 Med cruises while I was on board. I would like to hear from anyone who knew me.
Duane Miller miller@paulbunyan.net
Friday, 23 Feb 2001 at 11:40:03

I served on the Nitro from 1964 to 1965 as an EN3 in A division. I now live in Chesterfield, SC and would like to get in contact with old shipmates.
Eddie B Tucker eddie_tucker7@yahoo.com
Chesterfield SC USA - Thursday, 15 Mar 2001 at 17:04:43

I reported aboard in 1968 and left in Oct. 1970.I was an SF2 in R div.I have enjoyed reading all the messages from former crew members.This site brings back a lot of good memories.Would like to hear from anyone that I worked with on the Nitro. We had a lot of good times together.Chief Doyle was a good man to work for and I sure wood like to hear from him.
Timothy O'Neil tntoneil@centurytel.net
Port Hope MI USA - Sunday, 18 Mar 2001 at 21:46:12

WOW! WHAT A THRILL TO LOCATE MANY SHIP MATES FROM THE NITRO. I SERVED FROM 64-66 . WAITED 1 MONTH IN ROTA SPAIN TO BOARD. FEW MED CRUISE. GREAT SHIP AND MATES. LOVED IT, I WAS THE SMALLER SAILOR ABOARD. DECK FORCE. THEN DECK YEOMAN FOR THE 1ST LT. GREAT CAPT. STICKLES, AND COMMANDER PARRY. LOOKING FOR ANY ONE, SPECIALLY , HOWARD ROOTS FROM CHICAGO AND WILLY WILLIAM FROM OHIO. THANK YOU FOR THE OPORTUNITY. LOOKING FORWARD TO THE REUNION IN JUNE. GOD WILLING. TOOK CARE OF THE BRIG. AND BOAT RUNS SCHEDULE. SHIPS INTERPRETER IN SPAIN. BROKE LEG PLAYING SOFTBALL FOR THE SHIPS TEAM. LOOKING FORWARD TO HEARING FROM ANYONE. I TRY E-MAIL JMAG1234@CS.COM COULDN'T GET HIM , MAYBE WRONG ADDRESS.
JUAN REYES-MATOS jure71244@snet.net
Sunday, 25 March 2001 at 19:05:20

FA Boiler 65 - 66
Sylvan Tieger Nemo1947@AOL.com
Bronx NY USA - Friday, 6 Apr 2001 at 22:51:18

( OD ) EN3 A-GANG 65-66
DOYLE ODELL DROSE831@aol.com
Tuesday, 8 May 2001 at 23:15:41

I served in Nitro 1961-1962 as a QM2. I was a native of Clinton, NJ. Some of my pals on Nitro were: Earl Faust (The Duke of Earl). Duke, from Portsmouth, NH, was about 6 '6" and weighed about 170 pounds soaking wet. Bob Fluder, QM2, Milwaukee, Wisc., Gordon Sokolowski, RD3, Milwaukee, Wisc, formerly served in U.S.S. Wisconsin. Chuck Roberts, QM3, Taylorville, IL., Ben Wabich, RM3, Detroit, MI., LTJG Jennings, Navigator (ex QMC) of Mississippi (good pinochle player), he, Gordy, Fluder and I were a constant doubles players.
John Moliere JohnMoliere@aol.com
Purcellville VA USA - Thursday, 31 May 2001 at 10:14:15

USS Nitro (AE-23) 1966-1968 bosnmate seaman 2nd division. I was a skipper on the 26' motorwhale boat while in Gitmo in 1967 and picked up a cuban that had jumped off a fishing boat and brought him back to the ship. I don't know what ever happended to him. I guess he was shipped off to Miami. Also we ran aground and it took 5 tugs to get us off the rocks. We also ran through a concrete pier. Once while we were replenshing the USS Bang a sub surfaced bet. us and we had an emergency breakaway while outside Cuba.A drank was named after the nitro: Nitrol on the rocks with a pier chaser.
Johnnie Emory jlemory@pngusa.net
St. Martinville LA - Tuesday, 19 Jun 2001 at 23:28:22

I WAS AND EN3 ON THE NITRO FROM 1965 TO 1966.
Doyle ODell DROSE831@aol.com
Wednesday, 25 Jul 2001 at 21:48:38

seaman apprentice on board from 9/59 to 3/60 served on deck force then transferred to sply dept. transferred off in 3/60 to supply school.
Joyce puglady@mediaone.net
Sunday, 5 Aug 2001 at 09:52:35

MPA 61-64 under Capt's Cone, Daschiel, and Hyde. Worked for the BIG EYE
Paul Werst pwer@earthlink.net
Temple TX USA - Wednesday, 01 May 2002 at 10:03:59

RM2. Served onboard the Nitro from Dec 69 to Aug 71.
James Schultz JamesDSchultz@aol.com
Monday, 13 May 2002 at 08:52:12

MM3 in M Division 1962 - May 1966. Still keep in touch with "Goose" and "Runt"
Russell Fallon, Jr. JeterStar@bigfoot.com
Saugerties NY USA - Monday, 16 Dec 2002 at 20:30:33

I was aboard From 1961 to 1963 did a couple of Med Cruises, Germany and England plus Cuban Missile Crisis. Then Transferred to USS SEARCHER. My Rate aboard the USS Nitro was BMSN.
Dennis Whetstone d.whetstone@worldnet.att.net
Monday, 27 Jan 2003 16:11:52

Served on NITRO from Oct 64 to May 66. Began as SN in 1st and 3rd Divs; finishing as Gunnery Yeoman 3rd class (Cross quill and gun barrel) in 3rd Div. NITRO and its crew left a good taste in my mouth for the Navy and Reupped in Jan 67 in the TAR Program and remained until I retired as YNC in Jan 1985. NITRO started me down the right path and I have never regretted my time in the Navy. Would enjoy hearing from fellow shipmates.
Arnold R. Carpenter archie2@cchat.com
Charleston SC USA - Monday, 1 Dec 2003 01:30:58

I was an SM-3 on the Nitro. Came on in June of 64 and left in March of 66. I can't believe there are people out there that have the same memories I have of the 2 Med cruses and 30 days going in circles off of Cyprus. This website is great. The only thing I knew for 40 years about the Nitro was that she was moth balled in Philly.
Jim Jordan jej265@chilitech.net
Williamsport PA USA - Tuesday, 14 Dec 2004 at 19:16:09

I am a Plank Owner and have the certificate. I went on the Nitro as an ET striker in May 1959 and left in August 1961 as an ET-2. I did the first Med Cruise and was on the first softball team. We had a very good team (96-2) so after beating the Marines and having their base commander buy all the beer for us and the Marines, Captain Hall had 16 of us flown back Gitmo to Norfolk to play in the Atlantic Fleet Softball Tournament. We came in 3rd, but should have done better if not for the partying. I played center field. I really enjoyed my time on the Nitro and have very fond memories of friends and places. I would enjoy hearing from anyone.
Ned Keech keech_n@bellsouth.net
Ormond Beach FL USA - Saturday, 16 Apr 2005 at 18:36:53

1962--1964 Med Cruise---Cuban Blockade---French West Algiers---Plymouth England---Lebanon----Good Ship Winnie how you doing? You to Al Novak.
Owen (Mike) Rice ---owenr2@bellsouth.net
Zachary LA USA - Wednesday, 4 Jan 2006 at 15:45:01

BM3...1962-1965 JUST FOUND ABOUT THE WEB SITE AND WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE. E-MAIL ME AND PUT IN A PHONE # AND I'LL CALL.
John Bodino JOHNBODINO1@aol.com
Shreveport LA USA - Monday, April 03, 2006 at 17:16:00

SN 1st division. Would like to here from other crew members. Service time - March 1962-March 1964
Henry Hopkinson amazon2004@comcast.net
Somersworth NH USA - Friday, May 05, 2006 at 13:43:00

Picked her up Brooklyn Navy yard 1963 as a SN. Attached to ship service. Was ship's barber from 1963-1965. Left ship July 1965 in Davisville, Rhode Island as SH3. She was a great ship--had a bunch of great guys on board and I miss the fun we had! I got invited to the decommissioning but was sick and couldn't make it. Broke my heart! Any guys out there remember me?? Send an email!
John Di Santi jdisanti@bellsouth.net
Cocoa FL USA - Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at 21:55:00

EM2C - I was a part of the original pre commissioning crew that went aboard when she went into commission. I am an original plank owner. She went into service in 1959. Stores were loaded and we went to GITMO for the shake down cruise. I was a 2nd class electrician when I was seperated in GITMO. We waited for a M.A.T.S flight back to Norfolk and mustered out. I was 4 days shy of spending 4 years in the good old U.S.N. While on the Nitro, I was responsable for keeping the cargo elevators running at all times. I also showed classified movies in the ward room when we had a lot of ordinance aboard. I had a top secret and a confidential clearence. My tour of duty consisted of service on two ships. U.S.S.SEVERN, AO61 & the U.S.S. NITRO AE 23. My enlistment was from JULY 57 TO JULY 61. After my discharge, I went to school and studied INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING. I worked 40 years in the trade and now I am retired.
Judson P. Rogers rogersjudson@earthlink.net
Thursday, May 18, 2006 at 1512

I reported for duty on the USS nitro on 03-12-1959 in Norfolk Va. as a RD3 and left in R.I. on 08/02/61 as a RD3 p1.
Joe Kennedy jkklrk@yahoo.com
Sunday, 02 July 2006 at 00:25:11

Ron was in 1966-1969. He was a gunners mate on the Nitro,and made 2 med cruises.Ron is currently in the VA hospital in Syracuse,NY waiting placement as he suffered a ruptured brain aneursym in 1993 and left him with life-long demensia and other problems.
Ronald Darling NDarl52@aol.com
Thursday, August 10, 2006 at 11:53:00

I reported on board AE-23 in Davisville. I was on board from late 61 thru 64. Left her in Naples on my second Med visit. Saw Germany (Bremmerhaven ferry run), 2 Meds and of course the Cuban Missile Crisis. Also remember the Oran, Algeria stop. I was in the Radio gang and left as RM1.
Richard (Sy) Symoens rsymoens@gdinet.com - website www.irasprints.org
Watertown WI USA - Monday, 21 Aug 2006 at 13:59:40

I served aboard Nitro from 1 May 1959 until Sept 1960, Came aboard as DK2, left as DK1 P-1. Served in Supply Division, made shakedown cruise to Gitmo, and Med cruise in 1960. Does anybody from that period remember the "Duty Chicken"? I knew who did it, but I ain't talking.
Booth Wallace booraw@sbcglobal.net
Seagoville TX USA - Wednesday, 13 Sep 2006 at 12:40:00

i served on the nitro ae23 from 1959 till 1963 first division e3 captains gig coxswain great years ps would like to here from ship mates
Michael Volpe vulgarvolp@verizon.net
Wednesday, 15 Nov 2006 at 10:10:00

Joined Nitro on Christmas eve 1968 off Villefrance. Spent most of the next 20 months with QM group. Transferred to Pax River just before Nitro went into drydock.
Doug Wilhide wilhide@skypoint.com
Minneapolis MN USA - Friday, 22 Dec 2006 13:53:00

I'm looking for anyone that served on the Nitro from 61-64.I was an EN-2 and was in the "A" Gang.
Larry Clark wlclark01@msn.com
Wednesday, 31 January 2007 at 22:50:00

I WAS ON THE SHIP IN 1968 AND 1969. I WAS A DC2 IN "R" DIV.
Ronald Gingrich rgingrich@oldenkamp.com
Friday, 09 February 2007 13:00:00

Served on board 64-65 as EM3 Went to Med in storm. Bombs rolling everywhere on deck! Thanks for website!
Bill Barbon barhomestead@aol.com
Delmar DE USA - Thursday, 15 February 2007 11:33:00

I reported on board in Davisville in 1960,and made her first trip to the Med. I had become an engineering aid while being transfered to the Nitro. They assigned me to the engineering log room until they could transfer me to the Seabee's, that happened in Rhodes Greece much to my dismay. But I have some great memories for the short time I was on board.
Wes Stevens WStevens5638@Charter.net
Tuesday, 27 February 2007 19:33:00

MM2 M March 1961 to Nov. 1963, made 1 GETMO, 2 Med Cruises, Cuban Blockade, North Atlantic to Germany
Carroll Denison denisonags@yahoo.com
Sunday, 18 March 2007 at 21:58:00

Was aboard in 1965-1966. Was an EN3 in the Boat Shop. Went on to the USS Vulcan.
James Browder BrowderSr@msn.com
Wednesday, August 08, 2007 14:23:00

LTjg: I was aboard from '68 to '70 serving as 1st Division officer and later as Assistant First Lieutenant. Great ship and great crew.
Doug Williams douglasw00@hotmail.com
Rio Rancho NM USA - Monday, 29 Oct 2007 19:25:05

CS 3 On board 1964-1965. Boarded in Davisville, R.I. as a 3rd Class Cook and made 1 Med cruise. Discharged July 27, 1965 from Davisville, R.I. Great Ship, Great Crew, and Precious Memories.
Mike Lercara mikgeoler@aol.com
Federal Way WA USA - Thursday, 15 Nov 2007 15:46:00

I was a crew member of the USS Nitro from 1968 - 1969, the final year of my 4 year enlistment. I was a CYN3 working with the Radioman division.
Russell Kovar rkovar1@msn.com
Schaumburg IL USA - 18 January 2008

BM3 on board 1969-1970 one Med and one gitmo cruise great crew ,and we did have a lot of fun in the Med,O by the way I was one of the guys who got that flag In Spain
Al Shaw fireline520@aol.com
Buffalo NY USA - Friday, 21 March 2008 at 11:13:00

BT3, 1962 to 1966, B div.
Walter "Sonny" Newsome vareddog@verizon.net
Wilmington DE USA - Saturday, 22 March 2008 10:09:00

SN 1st Div / 64-66. Made 2 Med cruises, I held the HELM every other day, rain or shine "HURRICANE" etc.... Made trip to Gitmo. Base Liberty, Remember The EM Club?
Peter John Fisher johnfisher1945@yahoo.com
Old Bridge NJ USA - Wednesday, 16 Apr 2008 13:29:26

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