Shipmates:
We are now well into the year of 2008 and I am looking forward to many good things for the
association. I am excited about the upcoming 2008 reunion in Charleston. Walt and Joe
have worked hard to plan an outstanding gathering there. Be sure to make your hotel
reservations early and get your registration form submitted before the deadline to get the
lowest price!
I thank all those shipmates who have given additional financial support to the association
through your contributions to the Booster Fund. I urge you to continue this support.
This reunion is the time that new association officers are elected to serve the membership
for the next two years. Someone needs to step up and serve in several key positions
particular that of Newsletter Editor and Historian. An important vote will be taken in
Charleston concerning a change in the By-Laws to separate the offices of
Secretary/Treasurer.
I am indebted to Walt Baker, Joe Anthony, Roger Enger, Ray Davis, Jim Rogers, John
Papasergia, And, of course, the late Bill Weaver, for their outstanding support for the last
two years that I have served as your President. Also, a “Well Done” to Merle Ritter, George
Andrin and Steve Postolka for their service on various committees.
I would be remiss if I did not recognize all the spouses of these shipmates who give
behind-the-scene support to all of us. I know how much Kathryn contributes in time,
energy, work and suggestions to me and I know that other wives do the same. So, THANK
YOU!!
We have a great organization and I am proud to be a part of it. Our members are advancing
in age and we must continue to attract younger members. Joe Anthony continues to give
outstanding service as Membership Chairman.
I hope to see all of you in Charleston so make your plans to attend today.
Smooth Sailing and Fair Winds,
Richard
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FROM THE VICE-PRESIDENT
Hello shipmates. I would like to thank Richard for his work on continuing with the
newsletter -- good job. Hopefully, someone will step forward at the next reunion and
be willing to take on this important task. Looking forward to Charleston and some
southern hospitality. Walt and Joe sure are putting a lot of energy into making it
successful. The reunion looks to be a great time as usual especially meeting with all
our friends and shipmates. See everyone soon!
Roger Enger, VP
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MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN REPORT
We have had twelve new contacts since the November Mann-U-Script, mostly in the last
week or so. I have only one new member to introduce to you , but I suspect that many of
the others will come in just after this issue "goes to press". I hope that all the new members
will make a special effort to attend the Charleston reunion so we can meet them in person
- much better than just in the newsletter.
BAPTIST, Rev John and Lois
6 Pine View Court
Jasper, GA 30143
706-692-7941
jbnavigator@alltel.net
John was QM3 on the Mann Jan '62 - Nov '62. He retired from the Navy after 27 years of
service in both the Pacific and Atlantic Fleets. He served on BB's, CA', DD's, AO's, TAP's,
YO's, YFU's, and CV's. Three tours in Vietnam, and retired as a Navy Chaplain. He says
he is "completely retired now except" ......holds a position of National Chaplain
(Emeritus), and serves on the National Transportation Committee for Alternative
Transportation, member of DAV, American Legion, FRA, VFW, Naval Institute, Military
Officer's Assoc., Elks, and Eagles.
John, we hope you and Lois join us in Charleston. Maybe we can find something for you to
do in your spare time!!!!
Smooth sailing until next time,
Joe
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CHAPLAIN’S REPORT
Sadly, it must be reported that we have learned of the loss of four more Shipmates since
our November newsletter: President Higginbotham received a letter from Kay Alloway
advising of the passing of her husband, Neil Alloway, on March 20, 2007. Shipmate Neil was
a Plankowner. We lost another Plankowner on June 5, 2007 at the passing of Shipmate
Frank Parduski, S1c. We also have learned that Shipmate Robert H. Paul died May 27, 1976,
and the last newsletter mailed to Shipmate Warren Ross, DCC was returned with the note:
Return to Sender – Deceased. We mourn the loss of these Shipmates, and express our
condolences to their families. Please keep in your thoughts and prayers any and all
Shipmates and Spouses who may be experiencing health challenges.
Shipmate Tony Romano forwarded to us this beautiful prayer of Saint Theresa:
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on
the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this
presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom
to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
Stay well, and make plans to gather with all the Shipmates and Spouses in Charleston.
Ray Davis, Chaplain.
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CHARLESTON REUNION
By Joe Anthony
In addition to the reasons to attend the reunion that were written about in the last two
issues of the Mann-U-Script, there are some others: meet and relax with "old" friends and
continue the conversations that never got finished; make new "old" friends from those
new members and first time attendees; and plan to tour the H.L.HUNLEY. The Southern-built
Hunley was lost off the coast of Charleston on February 17, 1864, after sinking the Federal
warship USS Housatonic - becoming the first submarine to successfully sink a ship in
warfare. For 136 years, naval experts and historians had to speculate on how the Hunley
worked and looked. Then, in August 2000, the Hunley was raised from its watery grave and
has undergone careful examination and preservation. Recovered aboard the boat were the
remains of its eight crewmen, including Lt. George Dixon, who served as the Hunley's last
commander. The Hunley is now available for touring on a limited basis. It has not been
included in the reunion package, so plan to make individual arrangements at the times it is
open.
Another something special about Charleston is that THE LONE SAILOR and THE
HOMECOMING statues were dedicated at the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial
on November 5, 2007. This is the only place outside of Washington, DC where both have
been installed at the same location. This is where our Memorial Service will be held.
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NORTHEAST MINI-REUNION
By Tony Romano
The USS General W.A. Mann (AP 112) held another successful mini-reunion on s\September
28-30, 2007 at the Georgian Resorts and Conference Center in Lake George, New York.
Twenty-eight shipmates and guests attended, including nine plank owners: Tom Bohara,
Tony Romano, Ray Dubbs, Edwin Byrnes, Jim Rogers, Wayne Robinson, Roderick Judge,
Clinton Abrams and Mike Shaker.
The group enjoyed each others company over some wonderful meals, sightseeing trips,
card playing and relaxing in the hospitality room. Several birthdays and anniversaries were
acknowledged and celebrated throughout the week-end. Many guests arrived a day early
and enjoyed a lavish buffet at the nearby Holiday Inn. Free time was scheduled throughout
the week-end so that the group had time to reminisce, relax and reconnect. As always, the
women spent many hours together laughing and playing cards. Highlights of the trip
included a trip to the nearby Saratoga Casino, a shopping excursion to a barn sale
featuring over 1,000 vendors, and a fabulous fireworks show over the lake on Saturday.
On Sunday evening, the guests were treated to a buffet dinner and then were entertained
by Vera Roth, a very funny and talented impersonator. A good time was had by all.
The group plans another “mini-reunion” for next tall to be held in Lancaster, PA and
welcomes old and new attendees alike.
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THE STATE’S BEST SHRIMP
from Southern Living, March 2005
By Mark G. Stith
The Charleston area has some of the best cuisine of any place we know. So when we say
we’ve found the best fried shrimp in the Charleston area, you should take notice.
The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene, tucked into a somewhat shabby structure on Shem
Creek in Mount Pleasant, won’t win any prizes for appearance, decor, or atmosphere.
However, they do fried shrimp better than any highfalutin place we’ve been to. It’s a short
drive from Charleston just across the U.S. 17 bridge, but it’s not the easiest place to find.
We were not sure we’re in the right place. We followed the directions, but the restaurant
has no sign, just a big fish on the wall. But that’s exactly what one local told us to expect.
Now for the good part. Inside, you’ll be treated to such dishes as the fried seafood platter,
which comes with shrimp, scallops, oysters, and fresh fish such as flounder. The fried
shrimp comes lightly breaded without seasoning and are crunchy, tender, and oh-so fresh.
You’re treated to a view of the docks at Shem Creek while you savor some of the best
seafood in the area.