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Name: Warren Webert
E-mail address: wfwebert@verizon.net
Friday, February 29th 2008 - 10:12:25 AM
Name: Warren (WINDY) Winder
E-mail address: warwin01@cox.net
Comments:Hi Gang; I've been laid low by a screwed up back and a bum
leg so I won't be able to make the May get together. Must
be a conspirasy to keep me away. I'll be there in spirit,
if not in body. I hope to get squared away so I can make
the next gathering. Its been a long time since I left
Caiman.5 April, 1963.....that's 45 years......
Wishing you all a grand old time, Your shipmate, Windy
Thursday, February 21st 2008 - 08:56:57 AM
Name: Greg Baer
E-mail address: fc-webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Homepage URL: http://www.flamincaiman.org
Comments:Hey, all you Caimanites - All ahead flank and make your course for the new Video section in the Gallery. You will find some great footage there from the 2004 Reunion Banquet and all kinds of other great videos.

While you are in the Gallery, you might want to also checkout the 150 or so new photos in the Photo section and there's even a new story or two in the Stories section.

It's TIME TO REGISTER FOR OUR 2008 REUNION!!

See you in Branson!

Greg "Hawkeye" Baer
Monday, February 18th 2008 - 10:06:58 AM
Name: dingleberry
E-mail address: bobdengel2004@yahoo.com
Comments:Been called a lot of things but never clean and pure.See all you guys in Branson.
Wednesday, February 13th 2008 - 11:53:09 AM
Name: GT
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:Hoofs
Indian, Baby Giff and Dingleberry will alway be indebted to your wisdom in keeping us clean and pure throughout our Westpac days. See you soon bud....GT
Monday, February 11th 2008 - 06:13:22 PM
Name: Larry Overholt
E-mail address: larnanas1@verizon.net
Comments:Just updated my info for the log and thought I would sign in.
Very sorry to see Billy (Doc) Jones went on eternal patrol. We did alot of parties at his house in El Cajon. Rest your oars "DOC"...
Monday, January 14th 2008 - 05:42:47 PM
Name: Larry J. White
E-mail address: ljwhite@yahoo.com
Comments:I was on the Caiman from 9/68 to 10/70 as am EM1.
I was surprise to see that the boat was having reunions. I have been going through the pick and recognize a number of my former shipmate. I am sending in my membership fee and maybe be able to go to the next reunion. What memories the pictures bring back.
Larry White
(Whitey)
Friday, January 11th 2008 - 12:47:49 PM
Name: Mike Clancy
E-mail address: michaelclancy@att.net
Comments:Glad to be connected with the submarine community again. My wife tracked down the Caiman site after a conversation with her older brother (Ex submariner USS Cavalla SS244?), who said that he'd heard the the Caiman gang was having reunions, and really had their act togther on the internet.

After checking out the website, and it's various content I can't help but agree with him.

So what have I been up to all these long years? I've been in the IT field almost since getting out of the Navy at the end of 1971. I'm now in the last innings of that career, and I'm now starting to think about what I might do for the next phase of life. Maybe I can find something next that's not electrical/electronics based, but I seem to be drawn to the stuff for some strange reason. Until I figure the next phase out I'll keep working on life's mysteries I suppose.

I'd be happy to hear from any old boatmates to learn how things have been going for them since the Caiman days, and or to just catch up a bit.

Mike


Friday, January 4th 2008 - 11:26:35 AM
Name: Hoofs (Field)
E-mail address: smokeboater@verizon.net
Homepage URL: http://Nada
Comments:Thanks Lucky. Same to you......(much older than me)....hahaha

Chris
Wednesday, January 2nd 2008 - 08:34:31 PM
Name: Hoofs (Field)
E-mail address: smokeboater@verizon.net
Homepage URL: http://Nada
Comments:Man! Three reunions down and every one a damn blast. Really looking forward to Branson, Missoura so Slick can show me them Missoura Mules he rides all the time!!!
GT you better show up with that damn Indian Reeves or I'm a takin' that Pink Lady away from ya. I gots a bottle of cheap rum saved back just for him. Yeah, yeah, Dengel can have some too .........the whiner.
No golf for me boys...mama beat the crap out'ta me and ruin't my shoulder.....!
See ya'll there.....

Hoofs 66-72
Wednesday, January 2nd 2008 - 08:28:01 PM
Name: William (Bill) Lowe
E-mail address: williaml_2@msn.com
Comments:Just wanted to wish all shipmate a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and the best in the year 2008. Am looking forward to the reunion in May
Bill
Sunday, December 23rd 2007 - 11:49:36 AM
Name: Dave ( Lucky ) Ehrnschwender
E-mail address: Dehrnschwender@fairbanks.com
Comments:It is always a treat to browses the website and the green book and read the comments of the Caiman shipmates, brings back many pleasant memories. Happy Holidays days to all and Happy Birthday to Huffs! Looking forward to seeing you all in Branson.

PS: Note, the new e-mail address
Wednesday, November 28th 2007 - 06:41:50 AM
Name: Richard Nathan
E-mail address: rick@tradewind.org
Comments:Oh my gosh! I'm looking for photos to build a scale model of the boat I was on in 66-67 and I find this site. How wonderful! I was a lowly seaman most of the time but Bob Hyde wrote a commendation in my service record for helmsmanship under his command. This got me a special slot with the surface pukes when I went to mine sweepers. My family is pretty sick of the stories about this time in my life. Thanks to so many great mates who pushed and pulled you into qualification. I'd do it all again in a minute if I could. Thanks!
Sunday, November 25th 2007 - 05:35:16 PM
Name: Allen R. Bailey
E-mail address: aribroab@cox.net
Friday, November 23rd 2007 - 01:04:32 PM
Name: Ray Kuhn, JR
E-mail address: rkuhnjr@yahoo.com
Comments:My Father rode Caiman from about 51 to 55 or so. I read some familiar names and recognized some faces in the pictures. What a great site. Thank you. Ray
Monday, November 12th 2007 - 06:12:19 AM
Name: GT Shafer
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:Gentlemen
We are so lucky to have Whit, Chris, Smitty and Yeo doing such a great job for us. Of course, us weapons weenies don't have the training for the detailed stuff. Branson is going to be a great time...Baby Giff, Ned "Indian" Reeves and I plan to partake of the "libations & entertainment".
GT
Sunday, July 8th 2007 - 10:43:25 AM
Name: Gary Spang
E-mail address: x.tangent@sbcglobal.net
Comments:I just rcv'd my latest newsletter, and am saddened to read of the passing of Chief Jacks. He was COB on my first boat, Pomfret, and I knew him as mentor, a fair and just man, a shipmate.
After so many years away from it all, when I was sitting in a room filled with so many unfamiliar faces, he walked up, shook my hand, and, well, he knew me by name!
I will miss him.
Gary Spang
Wednesday, May 23rd 2007 - 08:50:31 AM
Name: Smitty
E-mail address: DBFrider@comcast.net
Comments:If your FLAMIN' CAIMAN TALES arrives in other than perfect condition you can print a copy from the NEWS page of our web site or contact me and I will send you another.
Friday, May 18th 2007 - 04:54:17 PM
Name: Ken Edick
E-mail address: croozer30@hotmail.com
Comments:Was onboard from 70-72 part of decomissiong crew.had all intentions of being at first reunion and work got in the way.making plans to be there in 08.lots of good memories.sent pic's to greg and see they got posted.cant remember who all had the red star tatooted on there hand but can add one more in there.anyone in the big sky country of montana look me up.MM3SS KEN EDICK
Wednesday, May 16th 2007 - 12:51:32 PM
Name: Victor "David" Hauck
E-mail address: dhinkb@sbcglobal.net
Comments:From 64 to 66 under Bob Hyde, "Rawhyde" the gator and Bob Mehrlin. Infamous for the Ben Cage "Note in the cigarette pack" scam that initiated me into the core of mullets. I have contacted Fred Cole and Joe Byers but we all move on. There are some great stories to be told. The Catalina adventure, the Horse and Cow war stories, the Club White Hat escapades and 4 or 5 long patrols. Caiman will always have a special place in my heart "and on my right arm" For what ever time we have left---------Good sailin' David
Sunday, December 10th 2006 - 07:12:33 PM
Name: Richard "Fred" Frederick
E-mail address: Richard_Frederick@bcbsil.com
Comments:God! How the memories come flooding back seeing all the names of the people I served with from 65-67. I still remember running around with Dingle and Gorden in SF. Anyone remember xmas in Yokuska in 66 when someone fired off a flare and some other topside watch fired off his weapon? Yes, those were crazy enjobable days.

All the best to you guys!

Richard Frederick
Monday, September 25th 2006 - 12:56:55 PM
Name: Warren (Windy) Winder
E-mail address: warwin01@cox.net
Comments:Hello troops; Sorry that I was forced to miss the doings in
Flagstaff. I spent that time in the hospital getting a brand new hip. I'm about 80% and getting better all the time. I'll Make the Branson Bash though,If the good lord's willing and the devil don't care!
09/04/06
Monday, September 4th 2006 - 09:39:00 AM
Name: Dennis R. Maes
E-mail address: runval47@netscape.net
Tuesday, July 4th 2006 - 09:26:08 PM
Name: Bill conner
E-mail address: bil@billconner.com
Homepage URL: http://billconner.com
Comments:Surprizing how many names I recognize. Guess my mental block isn't working as well as I thought. I did the westpac cruise in 63 and qualified there. Seems like I was thrown overboard in Yokosuka or maybe Sasebo. All I know for sure is that I got really wet. I drank my dolphins at that ratty little dive in Thieves Alley. Everyone there passed around this really huge glass and added whatever nasty stuff were drinking to it, dropped my dolphins in, stood me on a chair and MADE me drink it. Don't remember much after that ...
Friday, June 23rd 2006 - 03:03:04 PM
Name: Scotty Plumlee
E-mail address: msplumlee@gmail.com
Comments:The great reunion of '06 was a blast. Until I went, I had no idea how much I missed my old shipmates or how much my experences aboard and ashore shaped who I am today. I have photo's and will send them when I get the chance. Thanks to the committee for a great reunion and thanks to my shipmates for a wonderful tour of duty.
Scotty
Thursday, June 1st 2006 - 04:40:35 PM
Name: GT Shafer
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:Gentlemen
To Smitty, Whit, Greg, Fag and, of course, Chris....that was one hell of a reunion. You boys did "good"
Thanks and will look forward to seeing all again.
GT Shafer
Tuesday, May 30th 2006 - 07:41:00 AM
Name: Bill Seid
E-mail address: WSeid@aol.com
Comments:Flagstaff was great. The biggest difference I saw was people from different eras did more mingling at flagstaff than at Colorado Springs. Both reunions were the best.
I found out that Whit (Whitwell) and his wife know more of my relations in Nebraska than I do. That is what happens when people get together and talk.
See you in Branson.
Sunday, May 28th 2006 - 03:03:10 PM
Name: Jim "Tooley" O'Toole
E-mail address: jiminak46@hotmail.com
Homepage URL: http://home.gci.net/~jiminak
Comments:The Flagstaff reunion was great. Thanks to the association board for the tremendous effort in pulling it off without many hitches beyond the expensive beer. Next time we need to find a place where we can get decent beer at a decent price.
I have to admit that I was a little apprehensive about the choice of Flagstaff but it turned out to be a great choice. I'd been to the south rim of the Grand Canyon several times before so passed on it this time. After the reunion Kathy and I went up to the north rim and spent a couple of days. If you've never been there you should try it. You'll never want to do the south rim again.
I hope everyone who attended the reunion made it home safely and that none of the staff of the Radisson was offended by the late-night hymns or the invitations to tap dance that Sam Amato extended until way into the night.
See you in Branson, wherever the hell that is.
Friday, May 26th 2006 - 12:49:09 AM
Name: K.W. Sanderlin
E-mail address: sanderkw8175@cox.net
Comments:The day we returned from the Flagstaff reunion, I received an E-mail announcing the upcoming reunion for another diesel boat that I rode during that timeframe. I checked their website to see how their last reunion was attended.
There were 26 attendees! We had that many door prize winners. It's all due to the efforts of the unholy quartet of: Smitty, Whit, Yeo and Chris. These guys could organize a "Chicken stampede". We didn't get to hear ALL of John Schofields "Great Love and War stories" or get all the details of J.K. Bains Leapfrog Contest but it was a great party. Now that they have two difficult reunions in their resume.. They will try to put together a reunion for all of Smitty's exwives. That will be a feat!

D'Goat
Wednesday, May 24th 2006 - 12:46:29 PM
Name: John Ewing
E-mail address: john-ewing@bellsouth.net
Comments:served in caiman 1946-1953.took a look at the e-mail buit did not reconize any nameswent aboard as EM1/c and was tranferred as EMC to cabezon for its decm.
Thursday, May 18th 2006 - 02:04:12 AM
Name: john doen
E-mail address: none
Thursday, May 11th 2006 - 04:36:53 PM
Name: james selover
E-mail address: jrselover@yahoo.com
Comments:warm seas, no contacts, 10 day port call every 2 days...
Sunday, April 30th 2006 - 05:47:27 AM
Name: Jack Hawkins
E-mail address: jhawl609@wbhsi.net
Comments:Great web site. Thanks for all of your good work. Looking forward to the reunion
Saturday, April 8th 2006 - 01:19:55 PM
Name: Jim Tipton
E-mail address: aur1948@cox.net
Comments:Hi Everyone,
I served on Caiman from '70 until she was decommissioned in '72. I was an IC1(SS) on board. The electricians on board that I remember were Hog Hardin EM1(SS), Batista EMC(SS), Morelli EMC(SS), Harry McGill EM1(SS), Jim Brazel IC2(SS), Eric Williams EM3(SS)later converted to Sonarman, Duck Mallard EM2(SS) well thats all I can remember. Guess I'm getting old. Anyway, I couldn't make the last reunion in 2004 because of a little problem with my ticker (open heart surgery) but I am healthy and straining at the bits to get to the one this year. I'm sure Smitty things I'm lying to him again but I will send in my application soon Smitty.
Caiman was a great boat and I'm looking forward to renewing some old friendships. If any of you remember him (Doug Furst EM2(SS)) is going to be at the reunion this year.
Well, enough for now, just wanted to say hello to everyone again.
Tuesday, March 21st 2006 - 03:26:21 PM
Name: Larry Hudspeth
E-mail address: l.hudspeth@cox.net
Comments:I really enjoy the site. I am James"pinky"Penders son. I had talked to Chris Fields last year through e-mail. I knew that caiman shipmates were a close knit group, I had learned this at a very young age when dad was stationed in san Diego. My "babysitters" were, Chris Fields,Dave Campbell,Fred kurtzman,Mini-chief,carrol don coon. I have probally forgotten some. I really enjoy the sights and sounds. Dad got the ok (1969 I think) to go on the sub,to let us see. The thing I remember vividly is " You boys,shut your yaps,and don't touch anything!" All kidding aside,It was something that I will always remember.
Saturday, February 4th 2006 - 01:14:42 PM
Name: Dave Wheeler
E-mail address: wheelz@midrivers.com
Comments:
On board the Caiman from later 65 to 68.
After years of not hearing about the Caiman received the solicitation from Smitty to join the group. Wish I was aware of this at the last reunion as I am living in Montana. Looking forward to the upcoming reunion. It will be great to discuss our great times during the period I was on board, especially the WESTPACK in 68.

See you all in Flagstaff
Thursday, January 26th 2006 - 08:43:50 PM
Name: Tom McCabe
E-mail address: tompops@aol.com
Comments:Onboard 1960, pre Nuke School 9901. Love every minute.
Tom
Monday, January 23rd 2006 - 05:42:55 PM
Name: Norman Gage III
E-mail address: StormGage@gmail.com
Homepage URL: http://www.799-0000.com/caiman
Comments:Hi! My grandfather served aboard this sub from August 1945 through September 1947. I remember him speaking highly of the shipmates he served with. He joined eternal patrol in year 2002.

I have a painting of the USS Caiman which hangs proudly in my home. Someone gave it to my grandfather years ago. I received it shortly after he passed away. I am curious about the painter (last name Riggs), what he was thinking about when he painted it, what body of water is represented, when it was actually painted, etc., etc. If you click a close up of the Caiman you can see several sailors working…

WEBSITE: www.799-0000.com/caiman

Greetings!

Storm Gage
Andover, Massachusetts

PS. I really liked reviewing the flamingcaiman website.
Friday, January 20th 2006 - 01:43:43 PM
Name: Gary Spang
E-mail address: x.tangent@sbcglobal.net
Comments:Merry Christmas fellas!
If any of the WW2 (or shortly thereafter) Vets could respond, I'd appreciate some info. I'm trying to establish what the dungaree (work) uniform looked like during the war years. I have looked through the photos in the gallery, and even though they are black and white, it would appear that the work uniform didn't change much even through to the early 70's.
It looks like you had the blue chambrais shirt and the "stovepipe" dungaree trousers. Did you also have a dark blue dungaree jacket, probably same color as the pants? Most of the photos show a whitehat or ball cap... was the ball cap an issue item? I have seen photos elsewhere of sailors wearing a blue colored "dixie cup", I assume it was because the whitehats would stand out at night. Did you have such an item issued to you?
Lastly, what about shoes? Were you issued the 3/4 length "boon dockers" or something else, or did you wear deck shoes (sneakers)?
Thanks for any help you can muster?
Gary Spang
Thursday, December 22nd 2005 - 05:13:52 AM
Name: Tom Thompson
E-mail address: rctspookss@msn.com
Comments:See you all in may. Hope we have a good turn out.Tom/R.C.
Sunday, December 4th 2005 - 09:59:58 AM
Name: Richard Johnson
E-mail address: rjohn0132@sbcglobal.net
Homepage URL: http://spaces.msn.com/members/rjohn57/
Comments:I remember the deep dive in 1960, I was on the trim manifold pumping water like mad. most of the dependents took it quite well since they did not know just how close we came to eating it.I am not a member yet but will be soon. Great web site

Rj
EN3(SS)
Monday, November 21st 2005 - 04:52:33 AM
Name: T.D.Buckley SM2(SS)
E-mail address: toonbuckley@aol.com
Saturday, October 29th 2005 - 09:49:25 PM
Name: Bob Janson
E-mail address: captinrpj@peoplepc.com
Comments: Surfing the webb I find this.Marvels of modern science.
Thank god for pictures, sure helps the memory.I thought you guys where gone forever.
I think we should have the next reunion in Turkey. We can get them to take us out for a dependence cruise. I can see us all fighting over who gets to start the engines, pull the plug, raise the scopes,or run the bridge.Maybe we can buy it back, what a babe magnet that would be. We certainly would gain national notoriety. If they can get millions to take you out to space we should be able get big bucks to them down under right.How we gunna improve the sleeping acommadations? The meals where alright thou, right.What about the drinking lamp, who 's going to control that? The limmies did.Think aboutit!
Take care and stay healthy. Looking forward to seeing you all in May.
Jan
Monday, October 10th 2005 - 09:00:12 PM
Name: Rodney Townsley
E-mail address: heyrodney@webtv.net
Comments:Aloha Shipmates; I spent a year (1971-72) aboard as a yeoman striker working with the seaan gang and was part of the Decomissioning Crew. I missed the '04 reunion but hope to make the 2006 event in Flagstaff. I'd like to get in touch with any Decom Crew mambers to trade storys or photos. I live near Seatle and ride a GoldWing motorcycle every day.
Tuesday, October 4th 2005 - 04:01:52 AM
Name: carlyn l farris
E-mail address: jamn34@msn.com
Comments:Iserved on the caiman from 54 to 55 out march of 55. I was a 3rd class engineman, My best friend was Jack Ashworth also a 3rd class engineman, if any one has an address or phone number I would appreciate it. Looking forward to the next reunion in may 06,I will never forget the time I spent on the Caiman and over the years I have told stories of that time many times.And if the John Watson EM2 52/54 is the person we called shaky jake ,Looking forward to seeing you also.
Sunday, September 18th 2005 - 02:55:47 PM
Name: Dave Folsom
E-mail address: angelpoint@earthlink.net
Comments:Sending in life membership today.
Gotta have the liscense plate frame!!
Tuesday, September 13th 2005 - 09:59:30 AM
Name: Robert B. Mehrling
E-mail address: rbmehrling@nwi.net
Comments:I served in Caiman from 01/05/1964 to 09/29/1967. I reported aboard as EMC and relieved Jerry Jacks as the leading electrican.I was later appointed as COB by CAPT Robert Hyde. The last WesPac I made on Caiman was a very enterresting one specially the 5th patrol. I'm sure those of you that were aboard can remember."Yoe" has told me that I have been directed by the board and Captain Hyde to be at the reunion in May so if I don't flood negitive before, I'll see you then.
Your shipmate Bob "the Wizard" Mehrling,EMCM,retired
Saturday, August 20th 2005 - 10:03:40 PM
Name: Paul E. Guimond
E-mail address: www.larue9777@aol.com
Comments:Served aboard 67-69.I was glad to read all the comments
from the crew. As we all are getting old I couldn't remember
some of the names, so enter the years served on the boat which will help me to remember the crew. I see Captain Helm
o"toole and a few other names rang a bell, I hope you are doing well. Look forward to hearing from any of you. I live
in florida, so if you are everdown this way give me a call. Home number 352-728-6125 cell 352-267-7221. Good Luck & Good
Sailing.
Wednesday, August 3rd 2005 - 04:37:47 PM
Name: Craig Christian
E-mail address: craig_christian@msn.com
Comments:Found out about this today 7-16-05 and thought I would check it out. Was on decomissioning crew 71-72. Worked in aft engine room. I enjoyed the site a lot
Saturday, July 16th 2005 - 02:42:25 PM
Name: GT Shafer
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:Well...it is Smitty's fault. He found Indian Reeves, who called me and now Chris, Indian and I will all be at the 2006 reunion. That means....we will need more alcohol. I thought we could visit the Subase in New London before it gets shut down....they may have some old Mk 14's with some "gilly" that I definitely remember how to mix up with Red Mountain Vin Rose. Even "pink lady" can be distilled into an doable mix. OH.yea...here we go again.
Thanks Smitty....I will personally buy you dinner in Flagstaff. Tom Stearett can vouch for me.
Wednesday, July 13th 2005 - 04:10:51 PM
Name: BILL STUTTS
E-mail address: CITIZENPRINTING
Homepage URL: http://WWW.MSN.COM
Comments:ENJOYED READING INFO AND LOOKING AT THE PHOTO GALLERY. I AM LOOKING FOR ANY INFORMATION ABOUT ANYONE THAT MIGHT HAVE PLAYED ON THE SUBPAC BASEBALL TEAM FROM 1940-1943.
Thursday, June 9th 2005 - 09:32:03 AM
Name: Ken Bucho
E-mail address: kbuc@fascination.com
Comments:Served on Caiman 60-62 in fwd. engineroom. Sorry I missed reunion, will try to make the next one.Hey Big Mac remember the geedunk truck? LATER DBF
Wednesday, May 18th 2005 - 08:51:39 AM
Name: John Haley
E-mail address: wdcarver77@aol.com
Comments:
I like to thank you for my plank owner cap . I am sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. How many plank owner are still with us?
I will try to get to May's reunion
Smooth sailing
Haley
Monday, May 16th 2005 - 06:37:22 PM
Name: John Haley
Monday, May 16th 2005 - 06:29:23 PM
Name: John Haley
Monday, May 16th 2005 - 06:29:25 PM
Name: Greg Baer
E-mail address: webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Homepage URL: http://www.flamincaiman.org
Comments: 2006 FLAMIN CAIMAN REUNION
MAY 15-19, 2006
FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

SEE THE WEB SITE FOR DETAILS!
Tuesday, April 26th 2005 - 10:01:34 AM
Name: SAMANIEGO MANUEL S. (SAMMY)
E-mail address: SAMPURI@SCBGLOBAL.NET
Comments:Hi guys, note my new e-mail address. Nice seeing my old shipmates again, It sure bring back GOOD OLD MEMORIES. Looking forward to our next gathering.
Tuesday, March 22nd 2005 - 01:57:50 PM
Name: Byron McDonald
E-mail address: macdonald@elltel.net
Comments:ships store is great, and a good job has been done.
Looking forward to the next reunion.
Thursday, February 10th 2005 - 03:40:39 PM
Name: Robert Bowlin (bob)
E-mail address: bob.bowlin@sbcglobal.net
Comments:HI Gang ;reported aboard 1958.mess cook first job.HA-HA
then as a firman in engine room-then tried cooking ended up as a QM. went to DV school with George Fore RM. looking foreward to getting in touch with all of you. left boat in
1962. served on east coast onboard ss365 hardhead 1964-1969
made 2 west pak trips on caiman,member golden dragon. served with w fender as cob.R M Smith and J J Smith. Mitch,Posey,Gibbons,george fore,Hammering Hank Halpren.Bernie the cook.Gee i can't remember all.just getting older.
Monday, January 10th 2005 - 12:11:44 PM
Name: Byron J McDonald ( Big Mac)
E-mail address: macdonald@elltel.net
Comments:Have a Happy New Year
DBF
See you all at the next reunion
Monday, January 3rd 2005 - 12:44:16 PM
Name: Jerry Jacks
E-mail address: jacksis@comcast.net
Comments:Here's wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas, it was really great to see you this summer

Jerry Jacks
Saturday, December 18th 2004 - 05:50:24 PM
Name: James K. Hall
E-mail address: halljk@cox.net
Comments:I went aboard Caiman at Hunters Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco, Ca in I beleive April 1964 and served aboard her until December 1966. My brother Roy Hall also a Sonarman was also on board for a few months after I came aboard and I beleive at least at that it was unusual for two brothers to be on the same boat. During my time aboard we were involved in a yard period at Long Beach Ca. and mostly training operations in Southern California opareas. We did deploy in 1965 for about seven or eight months to Westpac where we did two patrols of around 45-60 days each and made a run to Viet Nam for search and rescue operations. During my time aboard Cdr. Hyde was the Skipper and Cdr. Gene Cash was XO.
Tuesday, November 30th 2004 - 07:26:27 AM
Name: Jerry Gifford
E-mail address: giff1944@yahoo.com
Comments:God its good to hear you guys are still kicking. Would like to hear from any of my shipmates from 63-66. Good memories!
Jerry Gifford
Wednesday, November 17th 2004 - 05:12:36 PM
Name: Gary Holbrook
E-mail address: Hchevy409@aol.com
Comments:I served aboard the "Flamin Caiman" 62/63 IC/FN was on board long enough to qualify then off to Nuc School. Was in-charge of the topside gang while assigned. Made the trip to Hunters Point for a new battery,then on to Seattle Worlds Fair,and Vancouver BC for the Northeastern Exposition. Those were "The Good Old Days" lots of fond memories and lost but not forgotten friends. Sorry I missed the reunion,just found the website today.
Saturday, November 13th 2004 - 08:11:31 PM
Name: Dave Folsom RMCS(SS)
E-mail address: angelpoint@earthlink.net
Comments:Onboard 1962-1965. Made westpac trip. Great memories.
Have lots of good pictures I'll sort out. Now back home
in Durango Colo, living up Baby Bear Road on Folsom
Mountain.
Friday, November 12th 2004 - 11:05:23 AM
Name: Bill Conner
E-mail address: bil@billconner.com
Homepage URL: http://billconner.com
Comments:I found this site by accident, what a surprise. Since I was the yougest guy on board back in '63, the rest of you guys must be -really- old by now. Fortunately, I'm still just as handsome as always so the years have been kind.

I lost track of the Caiman after I left the Navy so I wasn't expecting to find any current information. Finding this website was pretty neat. I was talking to a guy the other day and the military came up and got me thinking about the old days. To me it had just been another stage of my life that I got through and the stuff that came after kind of blotted it out. Now I'm wasting several hours going over the website. Guess it still matters.

Most of the guys I served with were ok most of the time and most of my experiences were good ones. I think I still owe Ryan $10 but, in 1963 dollars that's only about 20 cents so I'm not too worried about it. I haven't talked much about my military service over the years because it didn't seem particularly relevant to anything but finding this site makes me remember stuff. We'll see where it leads.

Bill
Monday, November 8th 2004 - 12:30:48 PM
Name: bert whaley (moses)
E-mail address: bmosesiii@aol.com
Sunday, November 7th 2004 - 03:47:55 PM
Name: Jack Warden
E-mail address: navretjack@comcast.net
Comments:Was good to see you all at the reunion and am looking forward to the next. My e-mail address has changed since my last message. Please feel free to contact me anytime.
Now available at navretjack@comcast.net
Friday, October 29th 2004 - 07:16:48 AM
Name: barney
E-mail address: barnhardt@maxminn.comm
Comments:picture sd kiss left i;m not sure top was morelock right was limey middle not sure but that is barney with the kiss the cap has to be the same as the reuion that we had. remember the guy to my right liked to party with the engineman
worm/zahler i was oiler for both of them at one time
first westpac i was oiler for worm was a good guy to learn from
bales/bones have pictures of bones but can't rember his name
bales should know
my wife said after we left the hotel that she seen such a freindship of us. very close bunch of guys that respect one another.
so i feel the first commander or someone made this happen to
make us so pround of this SUBMARINE SS323
BARNEY EN2 SS
Saturday, October 16th 2004 - 09:54:09 PM
Name: Bob Walters
E-mail address: caiman.ss323@comcast.net
Comments:Just noticed ComSubPac (Rear Admiral Sullivan was a Caiman sailor. See this URL http://www.csp.navy.mil/
and click on Submarine Force Commander..

We ought to get him to speak at our next reunion.

HGDU
Walters
Friday, October 1st 2004 - 03:09:03 PM
Name: Tony "Doc" Ziner
E-mail address: tzlz@earthlink.net
Comments:Hi Crew, what a great reunion, thanks to all who worked so hard to make is such a success. Got back from the reunion in time to clean up the mess from Hurricane Charlie, and am sitting here now waiting for Hurricane Frances to hit. While this is an exciting time it does not compare with the reunion and the opportunity to see the crew and to meet others who have served at different times. One thing was evident, the Caiman was a happy boat. DBF
Friday, September 3rd 2004 - 04:06:21 PM
Name: Jim Wall
E-mail address: jlwall@tabletoptelephone.com
Comments:What a GREAT REUNION. Many thanks to all those involved in putting it together. Looking forward to 2006.
Sunday, August 29th 2004 - 09:45:23 PM
Name: B Mc Donald
E-mail address: macdonald@elltel.net
Comments:What a great reunion put together
by a chosen few. Will be greatly
remembered. What a bunch of great
guys.DBF
Thursday, August 26th 2004 - 11:01:01 AM
Name: GT Shafer
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:That was a GREAT reunion!!!
Smitty, Fields, Whit, Fag and Capts M and H did really well.
I was totally impressed with the reunion.

Thanks shipmates....you did well.
GT
Friday, August 20th 2004 - 10:28:49 AM
Name: Jerry Jacks
E-mail address: Jacksis@comcast.net
Comments:Super time guys! JHB and gang did an exceptional job. It was good to see a lot of "old" shipmates there! Karen and I look forward to the next reunion and hope to see even more "old" shipmates.

Jerry Jacks
Thursday, August 19th 2004 - 07:50:58 PM
Name: Tom Bryan
E-mail address: tbryan@eotnet.net
Comments:What a great reunion! It was really cool to see so many old shipmates again. Already looking forward to the next one. Thanks to all the guys that did the hard work, getting things orginized and making it all work. I hope we can locate some of the missing ones before the next reunion.
Thursday, August 19th 2004 - 03:00:55 PM
Name: Bob walters
E-mail address: caiman.ss323@comcast.net
Comments:WHAT A GREAT TIME.. C Springs was a VERY GOOD choice and the reunion was run like a clock. Free beer. I hope that the next reunion can live up to this one. The only thing missing was the soft sound of a Klaxon. The one I stole from the Sailfish weighs too much for the airline baggage handlers..


Walters
Tuesday, August 17th 2004 - 04:11:35 PM
Name: Greg Dorado
E-mail address: GNTDORADO@EARTHLINK.NET
Comments:i BELIEVE THREE IS ANY ERROR ON THE YEAR cAIMAN WENT TO AUSTRALIA. i BELIEVE IT WAS IN 1957 i WAS ON IT.
Monday, August 9th 2004 - 01:47:29 PM
Name: George N. Helm, Jr.
E-mail address: AndreaKHelm@aol.com
Comments:Looking forward to the reunion. I was CO from Feb 67 to Apr 69. Lots of memories.
Monday, August 9th 2004 - 11:52:11 AM
Name: Ted Wheaton
E-mail address: theodore.wheaton@f22ctf.edwards.af.mil
Comments:It's been a long time. I still remember some great times and a few interesting ones.
Wednesday, August 4th 2004 - 02:48:46 PM
Name: thomaspollgreen
E-mail address: thomaspollgreen318@hotmail.com
Comments:Greg Baer:

I believe the dog's name was Steve. He had been mistreated by the Jar Heads at Pearl. They had, on one or more occasions, squirted a fire extinguisher at his private parts. All you had to do was pick up a fire extinguisher and/or say "nice doggie" and Steve was ready to fight. When the manuevering watch was set, Steve was allowed on deck. He would stand in the bull nose as if to dare anyone to come on board.

One of the other boats had a dog on board, and if by chance the two boats were coming up the main ship channel, both dogs would talk back and forth. When we tied up, the dogs would meet at the dumpster at the head of the sail.

Just before I came on board they had another dog (Dachshund)
named Snorkel. The story goes that the dog had been taught to do his business on newspapers. One day the steward was making up the captain's bunk. The sheet was laying on the floor. Snorkel thought it was a newspaper. When the boat tied up in Canada, Snorkel quickly became the property of a
Canadian admiral.

Your shipmate,

Pollgreen
Wednesday, July 28th 2004 - 06:19:59 PM
Name: C. L. "Harv" Harvey
E-mail address: HarvGayle@aol.com
Comments:I was QM of the watch during the deep dive on the Dependants cruise in 1960. I had my stepfather in the conning tower at the time. He told me he was starting to get scared until he heard me cuss at having to close the stop on the shallow water depth gage to keep from pegging it.
Sunday, July 25th 2004 - 08:08:17 PM
Name: thomaspollgreen
E-mail address: thomaspollgreen318@hotmail.com
Homepage URL: http:
Comments: Hello strangers,,,Andy Betz [RA] and Grant Riddle were the only two names Iremember,they will not be at the reunion .. I reported aboard Caiman in 1948[hunters point]just after the BLUE NOSE was painted.Right out of SS school.Left her in 1951 inVallejo {ship yard] Hopefully when we leave COLO Springs there will be strangers NO MORE...
Your Shipmate,,,T.C. Pollgreen STSC{SS]ret.
Friday, July 23rd 2004 - 02:25:39 PM
Name: thomaspollgreen
E-mail address: thomaspollgreen318@hotmail.com
Homepage URL: http:
Comments: Hello strangers,,,Andy Betz [RA] and Grant Riddle were the only two names Iremember,they will not be at the reunion .. I reported aboard Caiman in 1948[hunters point]just after the BLUE NOSE was painted.Right out of SS school.Left her in 1951 inVallejo {ship yard] Hopefully when we leave COLO Springs there will be strangers NO MORE...
Your Shipmate,,,T.C. Pollgreen STSC{SS]ret.
Friday, July 23rd 2004 - 02:25:37 PM
Name: BILL LAKINS
E-mail address: BLLAKINS @AOL.COM
Comments:
Tuesday, July 20th 2004 - 12:05:17 PM
Name: bill lakins
E-mail address: bllakins@aol.com
Comments:crew member 1962 & 1963 IC GANG
Monday, July 19th 2004 - 08:32:42 AM
Name: Chris Field
E-mail address: smokeboater@comcast.net
Comments:I have to ditto what Gerry T. said....great job to all!

I'm wondering if I need to pack socks and skivies for this, though?? You guy's are all safe....I threw my shoes without soles away. The smell has gotten much better since then.
Monday, July 12th 2004 - 02:04:06 PM
Name: GT Shafer
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:It is a great day to see old shipmates that bring back memories of our "glory" days. To the ones organizing this...great job...
The webpage is unbelievable as well as Captain Minnegerode's skill at organization. See you all soon in Colorado Springs...strange place for sub sailors but, hell, we are the elite.
Sunday, July 11th 2004 - 10:48:22 AM
Name: tony frey
E-mail address: tony451@turbonet.com
Comments:I ran away from home at 15, lied about my age, joined the navy and then found myself aboard the caiman from 1958 to 1960. what a place for a teenager to grow up!! I will never forget Prokepec, litttle john, Garasci, ----------the COB catching me in a bar in Hong Kong when I was restricted to the boat, and then ordering me to stay and drink with him. What a crew!!! It was my great irresponsible adventure. Like Tom Sawyer I spent a lot of time painting. I never rose higher than seaman (ss)but I got the lessons that allowed me to go on to college and earn degrees in both Law and Medicine. I'll be there in August and I am looking forward to seeing all of you.
Sunday, July 4th 2004 - 07:28:22 AM
Name: GARY BELL (DING-DONG)
E-mail address: louiewigington@cox.net
Comments:"GREAT SITE" BROUGHT BACK SOME FUN MEMORIES. DOES ANYONE
OUT THERE KNOW WHERE RUBIN FRIESEN IS?????? I SERVED 1958-1960. SEE YA AT THE REUNION
Friday, July 2nd 2004 - 06:40:57 PM
Name: Charles Wild
E-mail address: cwild41@clas.net
Comments:As rookies MMFN "Frenchy" Versailles and I were "shanghid" from Rock in MINSY for WESTPAC on Caiman in June of '61. I have many many memories of those days, both fond and distressing. I am writing a crono of that time with pictures I have (if I can find them). I have a few on the comp I would like to send to the sight if I can figure out how.
Still an NQP sometimes.
We both retired from Navy with our 20 plus as MMCS(SS)(me) and MMCM(SS)(he), after many boats and tours,but none like the Flamin Maru.
Friday, June 18th 2004 - 10:36:57 AM
Name: Greg Baer
E-mail address: webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Comments:I got this from Grant Riddle.

In early 1950 we had a seagoing mascot that went to sea with us on our daily exercises. He could leap through the watertight doors with ease. Each time we surfaced for a long period he was boosted up to the conning tower and the request was made to the bridge "Permission to air the dog." At that time we still had the after cigarette deck, and he would do his business there, and when we submerged it would be washed away. He was left behind in Pearl when we sailed for the summer cruise in Seattle in 1950, and was not around when we returned.

Two trivia questions:

1) What was the dogs name?

2) What mean trick was often played on the dog while saying "nice doggy"?

See the piture in the 51-60 Caiman Crew section of the Gallery.
Thursday, June 17th 2004 - 08:20:19 AM
Name: Greg
E-mail address: Baer
Comments:Caiman Shipmates,

Check out the history and stories in the Gallery. It's all brand new stuff!

Greg
Monday, June 14th 2004 - 02:12:43 PM
Name: Greg Baer
E-mail address: webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Homepage URL: http://www.flamincaiman.org
Comments:Hello Caiman Shipmates,

It's never too late to register for the reunion. Just go to the Reunion Details page on the web site and print out the forms and mail them in.

We expect over 160 including guests. We're going to have a great time renewing frindships and telling true stories. You had better be there to make sure we don't tell any lies about you.

See you there! It's only 8 weeks away!

Greg
Saturday, June 12th 2004 - 11:38:15 AM
Name: Tom Stearrett
E-mail address: retsubsailor@citlink.net
Comments:Great to see so many shipmates signed up for the reunion.
Thursday, June 3rd 2004 - 06:19:59 AM
Name: Bob Dengel
E-mail address: bobdengel2004@yahoo.com
Comments: Hello to all caiman crew. I was on board from 1964 to 1968 . Some of the best times were had with that crew. I'm
glad to see a lot of you will be at the reunion.A special hello to my old sea daddy Big John Luce and all the guys in the fwd and aft engine rooms.See you soon and looking forward to swapping old sea tales.
Saturday, May 22nd 2004 - 09:48:18 AM
Name: Cletis M. Nester
E-mail address: cletis.nester@verizon.net
Comments:Hello Caiman crew. I was aboard from spring 1955 to December 1957. Did the Northern run thing in 55, followed by overhaul at Pearl, followed by the trip to Tahiti, Christmas Island, Nuka Hiva and on to San Diego. Did the WestPac trip in 56/57 including Yoko, Sasebo, Hong Kong and Australia. Pearl somewhere going and coming I think. I have retrieved several of my 35 mm photos of Caiman and our travels and hope to have most copied to laser disk by reunion time. Hope to see you'all at the reunion.

Clete
Wednesday, May 19th 2004 - 07:11:13 PM
Name: Greg Baer
E-mail address: webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Comments:Hello out there to all USS Caiman Shipmates!

Just a friendly reminder - REGISTER NOW FOR THE REUNION!

If you haven't already registered, go to the Reunion page on the web site and print out the registration forms and snail mail them in. Bryan's waiting at the PO Box.

We need everyone to Register by June 11th so we can make all the arrangements for the right number of folks. Smitty is stressing about getting all the cups, shirts and all that on order. We really do have a deadline.

So far, as of May 18th, we have 35 registered with 23 guests. We're receiving registrations daily now.

We are going to have a fantastic time renewing old friendships and telling all those old stories. You know, the ones you have been telling to friends and neighbors over and over again all these years (and probably a few you haven't).

Bring your wives along. As you can see by the numbers (23 guests so far) they won't be alone. We need them to keep us on track and to make sure we get our old stories right!

So, get with it and REGISTER!!

******* LESS THAN 12 WEEKS TO GO *******

See you all at the Reunion!

Greg
Wednesday, May 19th 2004 - 08:16:34 AM
Name: Lester McCracken
E-mail address: batman@geckobytes.com
Comments:Quite a supprise to find this on the web. Served onboard
56-60. Never forget the Flamin Caiman, although I must admit
that quite a few of the names escape my memory. Saw that
someone was looking for George Fore, me too. And Billye
Frisch too. What about Chief Finley (Doyle B.). Don't know
if I will be able to come to the shindig, but would sure like
to. Hey Prok where in the ozarks are you? I'm there too.
Monday, May 17th 2004 - 09:59:18 PM
Name: R.C Thompson
E-mail address: rctspookss@msn.com
Comments:Onboard from 1956-1959.Lots of tails to tell and hope to see you to tell some. oh yes i remember the canves and a few other events like the equator and many more. earned my dolphins in 1956. i am still around to tell a few stories or fairy tails. R.C.
Tuesday, May 11th 2004 - 03:49:04 PM
Name: Phil McGaughey
E-mail address: philandcb1@prodigy.net
Comments:Started my career on Caiman in Aug 57 right after boot camp and sub school. Was lucky to be assigned to E Div after mess cooking of course. Great crew allowed me to have fun kept me out of trouble and got me off to a great start. Some of the best EM1 Bird, Em2 Walling, RM1 McCracken, TMC Fender, COB Younkins, TM2 Posey, Lt. Boucher, Lt. Woods just to name a few. Sorry will be unable to make the reunion but please include on mailing list.
Monday, May 10th 2004 - 03:15:51 PM
Name: Dave Ehrnschwender (Lucky)
E-mail address: dave.j.ehrnschwender@fancor.com
Comments:I have enjoyed reading the comments that our shipmates have posted. I am looking forward to seeing those that can attend the reunion in August. I am certain that they will rename the Hotel bar the Dolphin Club (or the 1101 Club or the Oriental Red Carter or the Horse and Cow) for a few days. Many great memories!
Monday, May 10th 2004 - 09:08:30 AM
Name: Larry Marcom
E-mail address: maxfly767@aol.com
Comments:Hey "Drifty", where the hell is my copy of your book after I sent you all that info?. I still remember ordering 55 gallons (in 5 gal cans) of torpedo alchohol, and supply department shipped us the wrong stuff. They sent pure alchohol instead. My leader (no names) asked if any one else knew about the order. I said no, and he told me to submit another order. The next day all the 5 gal cans mysteriously disappeared......Hey Pat, Rich, Ben ,Red,Frenchy, Paul, Whit, and all you other guys that were on the boat between 60 and 66. Look forward to seeing you again.
Sunday, May 2nd 2004 - 09:55:11 AM
Name: Ray Ferbrache
E-mail address: arayz@adnc.com
Comments:Hello Shipmates. Glad to hear from so many of the great guys on my first Boat. I remember you throwing me in SF Bay on a cold April morning, Just because my wife had our girl. To bad the sister woke Bill up at 2am to tell him the good news.

Looking forward to seeing you at the reunion.

Any one who stops by San Diego, Give me a call.

Ray
Wednesday, April 28th 2004 - 09:55:44 AM
Name: Ben Cage
E-mail address: lazlo55@cox.net
Comments:Lots of memories...some good...some...well..I was glad to see that Jerry shafer posted, along with Pat Aiello...2 fine shipmates.
Sunday, April 25th 2004 - 12:11:13 PM
Name: Dan (Hammerin Hank) Hankins
E-mail address: danhankins@centurytel.net
Comments:Glad to see some of you are still alive and kickin'. Sammy was a real great addition to the engine rooms. Sorry about pinky thou, I'll miss seeing his face. Hey Chrusher, see you at the reunion -right!!!
Sunday, April 11th 2004 - 07:32:19 PM
Name: SAMANIEGO Manuel S. (SAM)
E-mail address: samaniegomp@aol.com
Comments:Served Jan. 1963 to Jul 15, 1968
Earned my Dolphin Sept 63. Made two westpac. Two yard overhauls (Hunter Pt & Vallejo) Replaced four GM16-278AS in Vallejo. Came aboard as TN and transfered as EN.
Friday, April 9th 2004 - 01:10:24 AM
Name: JOHN CAMPBELL
E-mail address: MWWESMOB@AOL.COM
Comments:1946-1948 ON BOARD WHEN EARNED BLUE NOSE.LIKE TO KNOW HOW MANY AND WHARE ANY CREW ARE ALIVE. PHONE
251-473-7859. LIVING IN MOBILE AL.
Thursday, April 8th 2004 - 02:38:48 PM
Name: Donald "Tommy" Thomas
E-mail address: socowizard@aol.com
Sunday, April 4th 2004 - 11:24:03 AM
Name: Don Bell
E-mail address: dsb646@msn.com
Comments:It's great to remember all you guys- I'm hoping COB Paul Gross will come, Mr. Ferbrache, "Dusty" Rhodes, Chief Mehrling, etc. A bunch of great guys with only a few jerks thrown in (we took turns being jerks). Hope to see you guys soon.
Friday, April 2nd 2004 - 03:49:08 PM
Name: GT Shafer
E-mail address: gshafer1@aol.com
Comments:Damn...been a long time since Bob Hyde kicked me out of the Horse & Cow at 181 Ellis St, SF....He was after the same young lady I was....Libations & Entertainment!!! The Looby brothers were great to us...almost as nice as the white hat club in Yoko...
Looking forward to seeing alot of old faces and talking sea stories...of course with "Indian" Reeves and I, then Chris Fields....they really are true...I just found my qual card signed by Minnegerode- 1963
Can't wait to see Fred Cole & Charlie Hines...met me in Hunters Point...asked me if I had any travel money left...went to the club and the rest is history...
Dabob Bay...deck BBQs & beer
Christenson "loverboy" incident at barracks in Hunters Point
Log book entry...buried the caiman at sea after it died...Coon Doggie crushing aspirin up to cure it!!!
Thursday, April 1st 2004 - 08:09:03 AM
Name: Sandy Sanor
E-mail address: sandy_sanor@hsb.com
Comments:This looks like it will be a real gathering, I can hardly wait. Someone asked what we were going to do for the 4 days. In the old days half of us would have found a way to get arrested but I would suspect that today most will be taking naps in the afternoons just so we can make it to 2100 hrs.
Feel free to e-mail me.
Wednesday, March 31st 2004 - 12:12:03 PM
Name: Jim O'Toole
E-mail address: jiminak46@alaska.com
Homepage URL: http://home.gci.net/~jiminak
Comments:Looking forward to the reunion and seeing some of the crew from the 1966-70 years. I've been in touch with a few guys off the boat over the years but it's going to be great if everyone who says they are going actually shows up. If anyone knows how to contact Bill Foster or Dick Beesely (an RM from Massachusettes)let me know.
Wednesday, March 31st 2004 - 01:21:02 AM
Name: Bud Hart
E-mail address: Bud_Hart@hotmail.com
Comments:Here is an old song from the CAIMAN:
Words by Tom Jacobs, Tune adapted from "The Maiden" by Bill Green.
Oh, we are from a submerging machine -- Hmmmm
With rickety diesels and smelly latrine --- Hmmmm
A member of the Seventh Fleet Team
The surface, the bottom,
And CAIMAN between.

BAH-ROOOM - Tshh - Tshh
BAH-ROOOM - Tshh - Tshh

The girlies delight in the parties we throw
And, the girls we invite are the ones who should know
The game rules are simple, put out babe or go,
The blankets, the bedsheets,
And CAIMAN below.


BAH-ROOOM - Tshh - Tshh
BAH-ROOOM - Tshh - Tshh

So if you're not from a submerging machine
If life on the ocean was always your dream
Then join us in our su-ubmarine,
The surface, the bottom,
And CAIMAN between.


BAH-ROOOM - Tshh - Tshh
BAH-ROOOM - Tshh - Tshh

Monday, March 29th 2004 - 05:24:08 PM
Name: Pat Aiello
E-mail address: paiello@ecentral.com
Comments:I was on the Caiman 1962-1965 I got off just before she went to West-Pac again I have way too many slides but I will be glad to share them with anyone who mants to see them. Also I have about 200 feet of 8mm movies that I will make available on VHS or DVD for any one who wants to purchase at the processeing cost. I am looking forward to see you assholes again.

Pat Aiello
Friday, March 26th 2004 - 08:14:19 AM
Name: Jerry Jacks
E-mail address: jacksis@comcast.net
Comments:Did I go to Westpac? I can't remember. Must have been a hell of a cruise.
Thursday, March 25th 2004 - 09:55:36 PM
Name: Bob Walters
E-mail address: caiman.ss323@comcast.net
Comments:Geez, Mr. Hawkins, we thought the wardroom got the canvas. I remember going to Kowloon to get it. At the time, that city was all but off limits. Maybe J.J. (Jungle Jim) Smith took it. Your enlisted crew was too honest to cumshaw things like that..

If you don't recall who I am, I'm the troop that held up the Caiman in Brisbane because of a small (!!!!!) motor scooter accident..

And wasn't there some 'discussion' regarding the digger hats worn by the OD when we tied up at the Broadway Pier?

Those were the days, Jack.. Lots of great memories. Hope to see you at the reunion.

Bob Walters
Thursday, March 18th 2004 - 10:26:18 PM
Name: Bill Green
E-mail address: dattrome@san.rr.com
Homepage URL: http://
Comments:I'm looking forward to becoming reacquainted with a great crew, which took a tired boat to WestPac and accomplished great things; GM engine heads that were NFG, hydraulic oil leaks which caused us to leave station for Hokodate for a fill up, loosing a snorkel exhaust diffuser plate while on station, transiting great circle from San Diego to Japan with electronics that didn't work (we had to follow a Russian mership in order to find Tokyo Bay). It will be with great satisfaction to see what we have accomplished with our lives after that.
Wednesday, March 17th 2004 - 10:15:39 AM
Name: Bill Green
E-mail address: dattrome@san.rr.com
Homepage URL: http://
Comments:I'm looking forward to becoming reacquainted with a great crew, which took a tired boat to WestPac and accomplished great things; GM engine heads that were NFG, hydraulic oil leaks which caused us to leave station for Hokodate for a fill up, loosing a snorkel exhaust diffuser plate while on station, transiting great circle from San Diego to Japan with electronics that didn't work (we had to follow a Russian mership in order to find Tokyo Bay). It will be with great satisfaction to see what we have accomplished with our lives after that.
Wednesday, March 17th 2004 - 10:15:16 AM
Name: Tom Scoblic (Big Stone)
E-mail address: scoblic@wat.midco.net
Comments:I really enjoyed the pictures and comments throughout the ages!! I was an STS3 (SS) 1966-1970. Wild horses couldn't keep me away from the reunion!!
Tuesday, March 16th 2004 - 06:10:18 PM
Name: Doc Jones
E-mail address: bjones@hdnet.k12.mo.uc
Comments:I was the Doc onboard the Caiman from 1960 to 1963. I had the pleasure of serving under Chief Fender the best COB I ever served under. and to Chief Schofield "WE LEAVE OUR WIFE AND FAMILY TO JOIN OUR LOVED ONES" I will never forget that WestPac Trip. Remember when we were hit by the Rammin Sammy Moore and we became Buildng 323.
Tuesday, March 16th 2004 - 09:14:47 AM
Name: C. L. "Harv" Harvey
E-mail address: HarvGayle@aol.com
Homepage URL: http://USSVI Tullibee Base
Comments:I was on the Caiman from 11/58 thru 12/60. I would like to hear from George E. Fore, RM2(SS) who was on her during that time. I saw Lennie Hill EMC(SS) at the Convention in Reno in Sept. 03. He was the Royal Baby when we crossed the Equator in '59. Also, W. W. Fender TMC(SS) was the COB and King Neptune. Looking forward to the Reunion.
Harv
Saturday, March 13th 2004 - 10:07:15 AM
Name: R L DEVORE TMC RET.
E-mail address: bobdevore74@hotmail.com
Comments:On board in early 50's I'm a maybe for the '04 reunion
Saturday, March 13th 2004 - 09:36:17 AM
Name: John Scofield STSC (SS)
E-mail address: johnts5@msn.com
Comments:Hi Shipmates glad to see this siteup and running. I would like to come to the reunion but I dont know yet. Sad to see so many old shipmates on eternal patrol.
Thursday, March 11th 2004 - 02:11:50 PM
Name: Bob Axtell
E-mail address: gonavy40ax@yahoo.com
Comments:just signed up on the mailing list, prompted by "Prok" Prokupek. Me'n Prok swallowed the anchor here in the Ozarks about 10 years ago, quite by coincidence...it had been 25 years since we last met in Guam. We were '59-'60 'mates on Caiman, where Prok was a great "undersea culinary technician" and I was honored to serve as "aide-de-crank" for about 40 days.
Thursday, March 11th 2004 - 07:18:41 AM
Name: Jim DeVries RMCS(SS)
E-mail address: jdevriesc303@aol.com
Wednesday, March 10th 2004 - 09:38:31 PM
Name: Jack H. Warden
E-mail address: navretjack@aol.com
Comments:See you at the reunion. Many of you have a copy of my Caiman project (about 80 pages) Most is in black & white but a few in color, mostly from Turkey after Caiman was sold. I will bring it to the reunion and make it available for photo-copy if you are interested. If you wish a copy earlier e-mail me for a price quote. I will gladly do it at my cost only.
Saturday, March 6th 2004 - 01:31:02 PM
Name: Jack Hawkins
E-mail address: jhawk609@juno.com
Comments:Who has the large painting (on canvas) we had made in Hong Kong when we were sailing for Brisbane to celibrate the 15th Anniversary of the Victory of the Battle of the Coral Sea?.
The painting was of a kangeroo (female) carrying a sailor with white hat in her pouch. This painting was displayed on the side of the sail when we arrived in Brisbane. And
again when we returned to our home port and tied up initally at Broadway pier. Then it disappeared. I'm not certain, but it may have been inscribed "The Flamin Caiman"
Thursday, March 4th 2004 - 04:48:55 PM
Name: Ivan (Whit) Whitwell
E-mail address: nickie84@earthlink.net
Comments:Great job, keep up the good work
Tuesday, March 2nd 2004 - 09:48:37 PM
Name: Greg Baer
E-mail address: webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Homepage URL: http://www.flamincaiman.org
Comments:Hi folks!

It's easy to leave your message here in this public forum. Just click on the link "Sign and add your comments" at the top of the page and you will be taken to a page where you can leave your comments just like this one.

Have a great day!

Greg Baer STSC(SS) Retired
Caiman Crew 69-71
Webmaster@flamincaiman.org
Watch your baffles......
Saturday, February 28th 2004 - 08:42:39 AM
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