The Union League Club of Chicago and 786 Club presents: 

Commanding the Deep, Defending the Atlantic

Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97 reveals how Submarine Group TWO safeguards America’s maritime approaches through undersea warfare leadership, innovation, and joint force integration.

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 - 11:30 am to 1:30 pm

Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd.

The Union League Club of Chicago and the 786 Club invites our Chaptermembers to a luncheon on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, featuring Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97, Commander, Submarine Group TWO, at the Union League Club of Chicago.  Admiral Smith will discuss the role and responsibilities of Submarine Group TWO, the Navy’s Theater Undersea Warfare Commander in the Atlantic, which commands submarines, ships, aircraft, and sensors to safeguard America’s maritime approaches.  He will highlight the Group’s mission to innovate undersea tactics, certify Theater Undersea Warfare Commands worldwide, and integrate emerging technologies and joint forces into the fight below the surface.

Cost:  $35 plus tax and gratuity ($46.11 total);| Attire:  Smart Casual

RSVP required.  Space is limited. Contact Captain Leonard Wass, USN Ret. For reservations: wcginc@aol.com or text him at 630-816-7612.  You may send a check in the amount of $46.00 pp to him after you make your reservation(s) with him--175 N. Adams St. Oswego, IL 60543

 *********************************************

Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith, Commander, Submarine Group TWO

Rear Admiral Smith is a native of Long Island, New York, and a 1997 graduate of U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

His sea assignments include USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723), Engineer Officer onboard USS Maine (SSBN 741) (GOLD Crew), Executive Officer onboard USS Annapolis (SSN 760), Commanding Officer of USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23), and Commanding Officer, Submarine Squadron 1.

Ashore, Smith’s assignments include duty as the Commandant’s staff (Company Officer) at the United States Naval Academy, Principal Assistant to the Director Naval Reactors, Submarine Assignments Branch Head and Executive Officer Detailer at Naval Personnel Command, Division Chief for Nuclear Policy and Strategic Deterrence under the J5 Policy Directorate on the Joint Staff, Deputy Commander Submarine Development Squadron 5, and Executive Assistant to the Commander US Indo-Pacific Command. He most recently served as Deputy J3 at US Strategic Command.

Smith assumed his current duties in June 2025 as commander, Submarine Group TWO. He is the theater undersea warfare lead in the Atlantic and is responsible for leading innovation and testing of new undersea warfare tactics and equipment, and training and certifying Theater Undersea Warfare Commands (TUSWC) across the globe.

Smith’s personal awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and Legion of Merit, as well as various service and campaign awards.

The Union League Club of Chicago and 786 Club present

Commanding the Deep, Defending the Atlantic

Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97 reveals how Submarine Group TWO safeguards America’s maritime approaches through undersea warfare leadership, innovation, and joint force integration.

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 - 11:30 am to 1:30 pm

Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Boulevard

The Union League Club of Chicago and the 786 Club invites Chapter members to a luncheon on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, featuring Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97, Commander, Submarine Group TWO, at the Union League Club of Chicago.  Admiral Smith will discuss the role and responsibilities of Submarine Group TWO, the Navy’s Theater Undersea Warfare Commander in the Atlantic, which commands submarines, ships, aircraft, and sensors to safeguard America’s maritime approaches.  He will highlight the Group’s mission to innovate undersea tactics, certify Theater Undersea Warfare Commands worldwide, and integrate emerging technologies and joint forces into the fight below the surface.

Cost:  $35 plus tax and gratuity ($46.11 total);| Attire:  Smart Casual

RSVP required.  Space is limited. Contact Captain Leonard Wass, USN Ret. For reservations: wcginc@aol.com or text him at 630-816-7612.  You may send a check in the amount of $46.00 pp to him after you make your reservation(s) with him--175 N. Adams St. Oswego, IL 60543

 *********************************************

Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97, Commander, Submarine Group TWO

Rear Admiral Smith is a native of Long Island, New York, and a 1997 graduate of U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

His sea assignments include USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723), Engineer Officer onboard USS Maine (SSBN 741) (GOLD Crew), Executive Officer onboard USS Annapolis (SSN 760), Commanding Officer of USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23), and Commanding Officer, Submarine Squadron 1.

Ashore, Smith’s assignments include duty as the Commandant’s staff (Company Officer) at the United States Naval Academy, Principal Assistant to the Director Naval Reactors, Submarine Assignments Branch Head and Executive Officer Detailer at Naval Personnel Command, Division Chief for Nuclear Policy and Strategic Deterrence under the J5 Policy Directorate on the Joint Staff, Deputy Commander Submarine Development Squadron 5, and Executive Assistant to the Commander US Indo-Pacific Command. He most recently served as Deputy J3 at US Strategic Command.

Smith assumed his current duties in June 2025 as commander, Submarine Group TWO. He is the theater undersea warfare lead in the Atlantic and is responsible for leading innovation and testing of new undersea warfare tactics and equipment, and training and certifying Theater Undersea Warfare Commands (TUSWC) across the globe.

Smith’s personal awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and Legion of Merit, as well as various service and campaign awards.

786 Club presents:  Commanding the Deep, Defending the Atlantic

Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97 reveals how Submarine Group TWO safeguards America’s maritime approaches through undersea warfare leadership, innovation, and joint force integration.

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 - 11:30 am to 1:30 pm

Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois

The Union League Club of Chicago and the 786 Club invites our Chicago Chapter members to a luncheon on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, featuring Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith '97, Commander, Submarine Group TWO.  Admiral Smith will discuss the role and responsibilities of Submarine Group TWO, the Navy’s Theater Undersea Warfare Commander in the Atlantic, which commands submarines, ships, aircraft, and sensors to safeguard America’s maritime approaches.  He will highlight the Group’s mission to innovate undersea tactics, certify Theater Undersea Warfare Commands worldwide, and integrate emerging technologies and joint forces into the fight below the surface.

Cost:  $35 plus tax and gratuity ($46.11 total);| Attire:  Smart Casual

RSVP required.  Space is limited. Contact Captain Leonard Wass '64, USN Ret. For reservations: wcginc@aol.com or text him at 630-816-7612.  You may send a check in the amount of $46.00 pp to him after you make your reservation(s) with him--175 N. Adams St. Oswego, IL 60543

 *********************************************

Rear Admiral Melvin R. Smith, Commander, Submarine Group TWO

Rear Admiral Smith is a native of Long Island, New York, and a 1997 graduate of U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

His sea assignments include USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723), Engineer Officer onboard USS Maine (SSBN 741) (GOLD Crew), Executive Officer onboard USS Annapolis (SSN 760), Commanding Officer of USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23), and Commanding Officer, Submarine Squadron 1.

Ashore, Smith’s assignments include duty as the Commandant’s staff (Company Officer) at the United States Naval Academy, Principal Assistant to the Director Naval Reactors, Submarine Assignments Branch Head and Executive Officer Detailer at Naval Personnel Command, Division Chief for Nuclear Policy and Strategic Deterrence under the J5 Policy Directorate on the Joint Staff, Deputy Commander Submarine Development Squadron 5, and Executive Assistant to the Commander US Indo-Pacific Command. He most recently served as Deputy J3 at US Strategic Command.

Smith assumed his current duties in June 2025 as commander, Submarine Group TWO. He is the theater undersea warfare lead in the Atlantic and is responsible for leading innovation and testing of new undersea warfare tactics and equipment, and training and certifying Theater Undersea Warfare Commands (TUSWC) across the globe.

Smith’s personal awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and Legion of Merit, as well as various service and campaign awards.

Guys and Gals,

While making a noble attempt to restock my bar at the Total Wine in McLean, Virginia, I bumped into Senator Batsen D’ Belfrey, a man so well-informed about government shutdowns that he’s participated in all of them.

When I asked how Washington planned to end the latest one, the Senator leaned in with great gravitas and said, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”   Being a career politician, he declined to clarify whether he favored the hand or the bush approach.

Using the advanced mathematics I learned at the Academy, I quicky deduced that three birds in the hand must be logically worth six in the bush - very fortuitous since Navy has caged two owls and a falcon with six formidable opponents and elusive victories fluttering on the horizon.

And speaking of ornithology, the Florida Atlantic Owls are swooping into town this weekend. Coach Newberry, having recently re-watched The Birds, is determined not to become Tippi Hedren in shoulder pads. He’s counting on the home crowd to make enough noise to scare away anything with feathers.

To assist in this avian defense, we’ve prepared a tailgate spread guaranteed to keep morale (and cholesterol) high: 

Starters:

• Fruit and Cheese Platter (for those pretending to be healthy)
• Chips & Salsa (for everyone else)

Main Course:

• Graul’s Turkey Chili (the official meal of fall gridiron clashes)
• Caesar Salad
• Hot Dogs & Brats (A Mork favorite with chili)
• Buns
• Mustard, chopped onions, relish, and sauerkraut. 

Finale:

• Cookies and Brownies

Everything but the alcohol comes courtesy of Graul’s Market. Distilled sprits are BYOB.  The cost is $28 per person, payable by check to “Class of 1976” or, if you’ve surrendered to payment technology, via Venmo @PhiloT or Zelle to douglas.schaus@1976.usna.com

Tailgate starts at 1230.  Kickoff is 1530.  Please RSVP with your name and headcount by replying to this email or to douglas.schaus@1976.usna.com.

Go Navy! Stuff the Owls!

Doug

VP and Amateur Taxidermist

Now hear this.   Mark Bloomquist, owner and founder of Sea Friends, is dedicated to seeing a great Gold Out from USNA ’75 at our reunion.  

In honor of our great win over Air Force and in support of our Bowl Bound football team, Bloomy has decided to have a “Wives Special” sale to help you get a Gold Jersey for your lady as well.   You can now purchase a Gold Jersey for the Special Sale price of $20.  

Visit the Website: https://seafriends.biz

In addition to the unique 50^th Reunion Gold 75 Football Jersey Sea Friends is offering a selection of ball cap designs incorporating our class crest in a new embroidery design.

Get ready to GOLD OUT or seating section with your gold jersey.  These Gold Jerseys will be great as you represent USNA ’75 at your local watch parties for Notre Dame – Nov 8, AAC Championship Dec 5 and of course Beating Army Dec 13^th!

Think how great you will look in your GOLD Number 75 Football jersey at our reunion and all these watch parties.

All Sea Friends reunion items will be available for pick at Fluegel Alumni Center on October 23^rd, 2025, or Dahlgren Hall on October 24th, 2025. Blue Shark Vodka can’t be shipped but arrangements can be made for shipping other gear.

Ok '75, this is importatnt gouge, so save the files, print them, save them to your phone and share them with a reliable partner.  More importantly read all the way through because all the answers to your questions are embedded in the informaion.   

You should also get a copy from your company rep.  If you don't, contact them to make sure they have your contact information, so you can get the gouge...again.   

If you still have questions, please send a note to the latest person I am putting up for sainthood, Tom Kelley.   Tom is the Chair of the 50th reunion.   He can be reached at: tkelley53@msn.com or tom.kelley@1975.usna.com.

This email contains the info embedded and as attachments, just in case some of you have problems opening the attachments.  

See you at the 50th!!!

All the best,

Chris "Chick"

TRANSPORTATION (BUS) SCHEDULE

GENERAL TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION:

• Chesapeake Charter is the name of the Class of 1975 reunion transportation company.
• All buses will be yellow school buses with a USNA 1975 sign.
• Please see daily schedule below for time and pick-up/drop-off locations.
• If you find yourself ‘stuck’ anywhere or have transportation questions during the reunion, please call Devon Clouse at 410.533.3370

Thursday October 23, 2025

1000-2000: We will have three buses all day.

• Buses will shuttle as follows:
  • Westin Hotel
  • Navy Marine Corps Stadium Parking. Enter stadium parking thru Gate 5. You will have to pay for parking ($10). The bus pick-up and drop-off location is near the Blue Angels display.
  • Fluegel Alumni Center
  • USNA Yard
• This is the USNA Yard loop. Enter Gate 8. Stops at: Preble Hall Museum, USNA Chapel, Visitor’s Center, Terwilliger Center for Student Athletes, Midshipman Store, USNA Alumni Hall. Note: You may get on or off the bus at any of these stops. Depart Gate 8.
• Bus will depart from the Yard after USNA Alumni Hall and return via the Fluegel Alumni Center, stadium parking lot, and finally the Westin Hotel before starting the loop again.
• The last bus of the day will depart the Fluegel Alumni Center at 1940.

Friday October 24, 2025

0800-2000             We will have three buses all day per the following schedule.

0800-0930             Between the Westin Hotel, stadium parking, and Mitscher Hall (Class Meeting).   

0930-1230             Between the Westin Hotel, stadium parking and USNA Chapel (Memorial Service).        

1230-1700             Between the Westin Hotel, stadium parking, and all stops on the Yard (USNA Yard loop on Thursday’s schedule). NOTE: At approximately 1530/1545 the buses will stop due to the P-rade on Worden Field. At conclusion of Parade the buses will begin to shuttle from Alumni Hall back to Stadium Parking and Westin Hotel. 

1730-2300            Between the Westin Hotel, stadium parking, and Dahlgren Hall (Cocktail Hour and Banquet). The last bus will depart Dahlgren Hall at 2300.

Saturday October 25, 2025

1245-1930             Buses will shuttle between Westin Hotel and the Harry S Truman Park & Ride (2580 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401) to the stadium tailgate beginning at 1245 and continuing for 30 minutes after the singing of Blue & Gold (approximately 1930).

Sunday October 26, 2025

0730- 1300            Buses will shuttle between the Westin Hotel, stadium parking, USNA Chapel, and King Hall (Brunch). The last bus will depart King Hall at 1300!

CLASS OF 1975 50TH REUNION SCHEDULE

OCTOBER 23 – 26, 2025

Wednesday, October 22

1500                Gulf to Goat Arrival

Thursday, October 23

0730-1600       Midshipmen Store Hours

0900-1700       Visitor Center and Museum Hours

0930-1200       Golf, Bay Hills Golf Course

1200-1215       Noon Meal Formation

1100-1930       Check-in, Fluegel Alumni Center

1630-1930       Welcome Reception, Fluegel Alumni Center

1930 -              Company Dinners/Events

Friday, October 24

0730-1800       Midshipmen Store Hours

0900-1700       USNA Visitor Center and Museum Hours

1000-1700       Check-in, Dahlgren Hall

0930-1030       Class Meeting, Mitscher Hall

1130-1230       Memorial Service, USNA Chapel (Class Photo after the service in front of the Chapel)

1200-1215       Noon Meal Formation

1350-1500       Superintendent Briefing and Alumni Association Welcome, Alumni Hall

1600-1715       Brigade Dress Parade, Worden Field

1915-2030       Jewish Service, Levy Center

1830-2300       Class Dinner, Dahlgren Hall (Cocktails: 1830; Dinner: 2000)

Saturday, October 25

0730-1600       Midshipmen Store Hours

0900-1700       USNA Visitor Center and Museum Hours

0900-1000       Run To Honor, Greenbury Point

1330-1530       Check-in, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Ring Northeast Ring Structure

1330-1900       Tailgate, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Ring Northeast Ring Structure

1530-1900       Football Game, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Florida Atlantic University

Sunday, October 26

0800-1100       Brunch, King Hall (service ends at 1030)

0900-1700       USNA Visitor Center Hours

0900-1000       Catholic Service, USNA Chapel

1000-1600       Midshipmen Store Hours

1100-1700       Museum Hours

1100-1215       Protestant Service, USNA Chapel

Run to Honor Information (may not show in the Class Blast but is in the Attachment)

Dear Classmates and Widows:

I think this didn't work the last time I tried it...should be going to all hands...

I regret to inform you that Bob died on 1 October in Dayton, Ohio.

His Visitation will be held on Sunday 12 October from 2 to 4 PM followed by the Funeral Service at 4 PM...all at Hillside Chapel, 3515 Shakertown Road, Beavercreek, Ohio 45430.

Graveside Service , with Military Honors will take place on Monday 13 October at 11 AM at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 West Street, Dauton.

Donations may be made in Bob's memory to the Hillside Chapel Benevolent Fund...same address as above.

Gordo

Dear Classmates and Widows:

Unfortunately I must report that Bob passed away on 1 October in Dayton, Ohio.

Visitation will be held on Sunday 12 October from 2 PM to 4 PM followed by the funeral service at 4 PM...all at Hillside Chapel 3515 Shakertown Rd., Beavercreek, Ohio,

Donations may be made in Bob's memory to the Hillside Chapel Benevolent Fund. Same address as above.

Graveside Service, with Military Honors will take place on Monday 13 October at 11 AM at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 West 3rd Street, Dayton.

Gordo

Classmates,

I regret to inform you of the death of our classmate, Doyle John Borchers II. He was one of our most successful graduates in his naval career. A fighter pilot with 8 Air Medals, a Test Pilot, and an Aircraft Carrier Commanding Officer. He and Joan then established the California Academy of the Performing Arts near their home in Napa.

Doyle was the Captain of the 1965 IRA Champion Crew Team and is one of 10 classmates in the Class of 1965 Navy Legends Exhibit in theTerwilliger Physical Mission Center in Ricketts Hall. If you are attending the 60th reunion, you may want to see his impressive write-up in that exhibit.

Doyle graduated from the 14th Company and is the 7th deceased member of 22 graduates from that company. Below are Dave Anderson's sad note to Joan and Joan's own heartfelt notice to family and friends.

We have lost a giant in our class. His ordeal is over. May he finally Rest in Peace.

Jim

This in last night at around 0053 EST. So very sad. One heck of a guy and one heck of a LOSS - to Joan and her family and to our Class. 

Classmates,

I regret to inform you of the death of our classmate, Doyle John Borchers II. He was one of our most successful graduates in his naval career. A fighter pilot with 8 Air Medals, a Test Pilot, and an Aircraft Carrier Commanding Officer. He and Joan then established the California Academy of the Performing Arts near their home in Napa.

Doyle was the Captain of the 1965 IRA Champion Crew Team and is one of 10 classmates in the Class of 1965 Navy Legends Exhibit in theTerwilliger Physical Mission Center in Ricketts Hall. If you are attending the 60th reunion, you may want to see his impressive write-up in that exhibit.

Doyle graduated from the 14th Company and is the 7th deceased member of 22 graduates from that company. Below are Dave Anderson's sad note to Joan and Joan's own heartfelt notice to family and friends.

We have lost a giant in our class. His ordeal is over. May he finally Rest in Peace.

Jim

This in last night at around 0053 EST. So very sad. One heck of a guy and one heck of a LOSS - to Joan and her family and to our Class. 

Hello '85,

     After a soggy win over Rice and running their record to 4-0, Navy seeks to win the first leg of the Commander-in-Chief's trophy and take their record to 5-0 this Saturday with a noon kickoff against the Air Force Falcons. As always, the Class of '85 will be tailgating at our usual spot at NMCS at 0900. Here is the sign up for our tailgate:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080A48ABAB28AAF49-59071118-beat/57583462#/

If you plan on attending we ask that you please take a few minutes to sign up so that our tailgate crew can plan to have enough food and drinks available. 

     I am still winding down the last of the 40th Reunion details, this includes the last few refunds, getting all the bills paid and doing lessons learned for our next reunion. A few of our vendors are still offering their products to us, see the Class of ’85 website’s merchandise area for those items as the ordering windows will be ending soon. This includes $200 off the USNA Class of ’85 watches. I will be sending out a survey soon in order to capture your feedback while the reunion is still fresh in your mind, so stay tuned for that. If you want a USNA ’85 Duffel bag or any of the Tempercraft Reunion water bottles we gave out, please reach out to me and I can take care of you. For now, sign up for the Air Force game if you are going or enjoy a watch party at your local USNA Alumni chapter. Also, stay tuned for more information on the upcoming Army/Navy weekend and our Class of ’85 events for this year’s game in Baltimore. Go Navy, BEAT Air Force!!

Bob Smith ’85 

Hey everyone! 

Happy Rally weekend Eve-Eve!  I am giving up on counting "the days" and will blame it on the cogntitive decline of age. 

Rally weekend starts Friday and the first event is our social at McGarvey's at 1800 that evening.  Pickleball will be canceled due to lack of interest.  Looks like all 94 really cares about is social events, go figure. 

We have over 40 registered for McGarvey's and they have reserved the mezzanine deck, so please make your way up there when you arrive.  

We have 94 (yut!) registered for the tailgate on Saturday.  Tailgate location is near the Gate 3 parking entrance near the intersection of Cedar Park road and Glen Ave. Tailgate starts at 1230 and food should be served around 1330.  Tailgate Captains are Sean Fahey, Bob Roberts and Todd Hoot.  Please see them for your wristband and any questions you may have and don't forget to thank them!

There's still plenty of time to register to join us.  Please register here: https://signupnow.events/USNA1994

See you this weekend!  Beat Rice!

Jack

Greetings Memphis Alumni and Families! 

We are putting together plans for our "Friendsgiving" Tailgate when the Mids come into town to beat Memphis. More details are to come, but please fill out the form below to help us in the process! 

NAVY MEMPHIS RSVP

Game will be on Thanksgiving 11/27 @ 6:30 PM. I suspect the tailgate will run between 4-6PM, pending your RSVP responses!

ROLL GOATS! 

Chris Nurthen ('15)

Memphis Alumni Chapter 

Class of '85,

      Last night was not long enough right? I hated to break up the party at 9:30, but we had to let our caterers and staff get home and get some sleep because most of the same crew will be serving us at our tailgate today. It will be a perfect low to mid 70's and mostly sunny day at NMCS from 1300-1700. Shuttles are running all morning from the hotels to Alumni Hall in the Yard from 0900-1200, then after that they shift to shuttles from the hotels to the stadium from around 1215-1730. If you are driving, there will be an attendant at Gate 5 (the gate right in front of the Blue Angel F-18 on Taylor Ave) and tell that person you are parking for the USNA Class of '85 Tailgate and they will waive you in and not charge the normal $10 fee required. Classmate Marty Medve and Trident Home loans is paying that for you, so thank Marty if you see him and if you need a new home loan or need to do a refi now that intereste rates are droping, visit their website at: 

https://tridenthomeloans.com

Several classmates are already working with Marty saving thousands. Marty will charge you 50% of a normal lender if you are a Classmate, family or friend bcause he loves his classmates and all Vets and wants to help. I closed on an vacation home this week and it was the absolute best loan experience of my life and saved 1.5% over the next nearest lender. The money Marty made on my loan, he donatd 100% of it back to our class to help pay for last night's balloon arch at the Fluegel Center, the flower centerpieces on each table and today's parking fee just to name a few items. In fact, things are going so well, Marty told me yesterday he is doubling the amount of his sponsorship. Guys, if you need a home loan and don't call Trident or Marty, you will be leaving money on the table or paying a higher rate I can assure you. If you finance with Marty and want to refi that loan down the road... FREE! No other lender can touch Trident Home Loans and you get classmate's cell number to call if you have any questions. He and I are friends and he always asks me: "Hey Bob, does the Class need anything?", if we do, Marty is the first guy to offer to help us and I cannot thank him enough. He is now sponsoring the Army/Navy tailgate in December at Wico Street Beer Company, after the reunion I will bury with you details on how to sign up. 

     If you registered for the Brunch on Sunday and did not get a yellow wrist band, please find me today or stop by the registration desk in the Westin Lobby between 0900-1200 this morning and pick one up. We received them late on Thursday and about 20 people registered without us having these or even knowing about them. I will be at the tailgate today (obviously) and have any nametags or swag that late arrivals have not had the chance to pick up. This weekend has been truly special so far and today is the crown jewel of the weekend at NMCS. Great food with a Taste of the Chesapeake Bay theme, cold beer and wine included and a cash bar if you need something higher octane. Our band, DeadEye Stare will kick off at 1400 and play us a few sets until 1700. I will have some NCAA football games on the newly installed TV's at our tailgate tent. This entire set up is new to us and located at the far end of the stadium, opposite the march-on end and the F-18 if you need a vector. Just get off the shuttle bus and walk in the gate. Knowing this Class, we will end this in style today and I want to thank all of you for making the effort to get here and for showing up and having fun. I am going to push the Class of '85 Reunion Cruise book again, here is the web link to that website: 

https://usna.brightcrowd.com/1985-40th-reunion

   CHECK THIS OUT!!! Build a profile and navigate the site. Here is something beyond cool, go to the Directory and from there click on Map View, a map comes up of the U.S. and on that map you can see where members or our class are from and currently live. For example, you are on a vacation in Idaho soon and you are wondering: "Hey, are there any USNA Classmates in Idaho?" and you click on the circle with a "1" in the middle on the state of Idaho and our Classmate Davd Bailey's profile pops up and you can see his email, phone number, address and LinkedIn info. You call or email Dave and I know Dave will come and buy you a beer and give you a huge bear hug! If you come to Las Vegas, my info is in there as well. I will also buy you a beer and give you a small bear hug (Dave is bigger than me). You get the point, this website is the BOMB!! It was a free gift from Brightcrowd to the USNA Alumni and we have until the end of the year to populate this, so get on it. We will be able to use after the end of this year, we just cannot add any more profile information and I imagine Bright Crowd will then want to collect some revenue to continue what is now a FREE service. 

     Get out to the NMCS today and let's have a BLAST! Hard to believe it is Saturday already, I am loosing my voice and a little hungover and having the time of my life. I hope you are too and I hope that you are ready to continue this vibe after this great Reunion weekend and into our retirement years and the life's "Back Nine" as we swing hard and enjou each day for the gift that it is. We'll talk more coming out of this weekend and what this Class will be doing going forward. I will be publshing a thorough "State of the Class" accounting of our finances and fundraising plans going forward. Someone asked me about this and I am going to address it head on. When I spend a $1 or $100 or $1000 from our Class fund, like in our Navy Opsec Days, it needs two signatures, mine and Class Treasurer Bill Ridings along with the approval from USNA accounting who actually writes the checks. They hold our money and pay our bills guys and there is 100% accountability and I will now add full transparency of the numbers soon. I have not done this much in the past as not to bore you, but the process is safe, secure and fully accountable and lives up to the motto that Mishipmen do not "Lie, Cheat or Steal". In fact, if you knew Bill or myself at all, you know we lose money doing this and often times pay for things that we don't bother to pay ourselves back for and considerate it a donation to the Class. Our fund is solid and the money we raise this weekend will make us stronger as we continue to provide support for Fallen Classmates or those in need, great football tailgates and other events and we continue to support the Naval Academy and the Midshipmen. Get out to NMCS today and have another great day, reach out to me if you need anything: 502-432-6185. See you guys soon and Go Navy!!

Bob Smith 

Classmates,

I just finished a review of the ’65 Letter Winners list.

 

Our letter winners (140 ) made up 17.5 % of the graduating class (801)

Of those 140 Letter Winners for our 50th Legacy Gift to the academy

- completed in Dec. 2015 -  there were 62 donors or 44% of the total.

Unfortunately, 26% of our Letter Winners are now deceased.

Donations from our class letter winners totaled $1,703,536.

 

The NAAA supports 36 Varsity sports for men and women - only Stanford and Ohio State have that many sports.

Navy receives very little funding from the government for our sports programs. In addition to the TV money and ticket sales, we need a lot of volunteer donors for the Athletic Excellence Fund in order to fully support all of our teams if we expect to win.

 

If you, as a former Navy Varsity athlete, did not contribute to our Athletic Excellence Fund as part of our 50th Legacy Gift or have not donated since then, I urge you to consider making that effort now. As a 3 time letter winner myself, I still make a monthly donation since I am a trustee for the Athletic & Scholarship Foundation.

 

Simply go to usna.com and click on Make a Gift - it is that easy. Every little bit helps.

 

All the Best,

Jim

Hi Folks,

We have an Alumni Shipmate that would like to go to the Service Academy Social on Thursday 9/25 at Pub Frato in Chagrin Falls, but could use our help. He is one of our more senior local alums - Class of '62 - and has concerns about driving at night.

Is there someone out there who lives near Hiram, is planning to go to the Social, and could give our shipmate a ride that evening? I would be incredibly grateful if you can help.

Please email me at jim.bartlett44@gmail.com if you can help, and I'll connect you with our shipmate.

Jim B

USNA '88

OK, I figured I'd get your attention with that subject line.

It's time for Navy to show up in force. We've been greatly outnumbered at our events by West Point grads, and it's really grinding my gears. This is a call to action for us to make a stand. I'm asking YOU to join us at the next Service Academy Social and let's see if we can outnumber our sister academies.

Details:

• Thursday 9/25, 5:00pm until you've had enough
• Pub Frato in Chagrin Falls (25 Pleasant Dr, Chagrin Falls)
• Appetizers provided, cash bar
• Spouses welcome!

I've invited Tom Hanks, but it's unclear if he can make it. We hope to see you there!

Cheers,

Jim Bartlett

USNA '88

Classmates,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of our classmate, David J.Adams,Jr. on the third of September. The notification came from Mitch Henderson's e-mail below to the class Parkinsons group that he created and of which Dave was a charter member.

Dave graduated from the 16th Company and is the 8th deceased member of 21 graduates from that company. He was a letter winner on both the Plebe and Varsity Lightweight Crew Team. He will be sorely missed missed by many.

Dave's obituary to follw,

Jim

Hey everyone!

Hey everyone!

Classmates,

      I unfortunately have to pass along news about fallen Classmate,  2nd Company member and former Napster Jack Stem yesterday morning. Here is what I received last night from someone close to Jack:

"It is with profound sadness that the passing of our dear shipmate, outstanding leader, accomplished defense professional, beloved husband and doting father; Lieutenant Commander Jack Stem passed today after an abrupt, unexpected illness. 

His passing was peaceful with wife, Shannon and daughter, Jackie by his side at Inova Fairfax Hospital; approximately 3:30PM.  The family wants everyone who knew and cared about him to be aware.  

We will send out information about his memorial service, anticipated ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, and family desires when arrangements are known."

     I will pass along more information as I get it from Jack's family, for now, I ask you to please keep Jack, his wife Shannon and his family in your thoughts and prayers. For those of us who knew him, Jack was always one of the funniest and nicest guys we all knew. I have some very fond memories of the time I spent with Jack and will certainly miss him. I am sure anyone who knows Jack feels the same way. He attended our Class of '85 tailgate just last weekend and was an avid supporter of our Class and of the USNA Midshipmen. Rest in Peace Jack, Fair winds and Following Seas, we will miss you. 

Bob Smith '85 

^{USNAAA Delaware Chapter}

^{North and/or South}

 ^{End of Summer}

 ^{Meet and Greet Happy Hour(s)}

Old Salts & New Mids – come check out two unique family venues including VIRTUAL games taking America by storm!

These 2 Happy Hour venues welcome family - kids included!

Bring the Crew and enjoy some quality time together!

Birdie’s – Links & Drinks [NORTH]

Heads up, gamers! All the classics—Jet Pong, Ping Pong, Foosball, Cornhole, Darts, Sub-soccer, Shuffleboard, and Hockey—are totally free to enjoy. Virtual games are priced per bay, so if you're diving into the digital fun, just know it's BYOG: Buy Your Own Game.

Where: 320 Auto Park Drive, Middletown, DE 19709

When: Wednesday, September 10, 2025

What Time: 5:00PM – 7:00PM (note: if your work hours allow…. Feel free to show up a bit earlier…their happy hour officially starts at 4:00PM – 7:00PM) ….however do to my work hours, I’ll see ya at 5:00 at the bar!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lefty’s  - Alley & Eats [SOUTH]

Wednesday’s at 6 PM - Game Night including Name That Tune, Trivia, and Jersey Feud, all hosted by the one and only Jersey John. Virtual games are priced per bay, so if you're diving into the digital fun, just know it's BYOG: Buy Your Own Game.

Where: 36450 Plaza Blvd, Lewes, DE 19958

When: Wednesday, September 24, 2025

What Time: 5:00PM – 7:00PM (note: if your work hours allow…feel free to show up a bit earlier…their happy hour officially starts at 3:00PM – 7:00PM) ….however do to my work hours, I’ll see ya at 5:00 at the bar!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Save the Date Shipmates: November 1^st, 2025 | DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum in Fenwick Island @ 11:15AM followed by Harpoon Hannas for lunch “separate checks” – more to come ...

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Counting down till we muster up!  Go Navy!  

Chris Dierkes  - President USNAAA DE Chapter 

Cell: 302-540-0940

 christopherfdierkes@yahoo.com

Hi Folks,

There's a lot happening this September in our Northeast Ohio region.I encourage you to take a look at the options below, and come join us at an event. In particular, we'd love to see a decent Navy turnout at the Service Academy Social on Thursday Sept 25 - time for Navy to show up in force!

September Events (click on links for more details):

• Service Academy Breakfast - Thursday 9/11 at 7:00am at L.A. Pete's in Independence. This monthly event has begun to rebound in attendance, but we're definitely outnumbered by Army. I know it's early..but come on out and plug into this group of around 20-25 Academy grads.
• Service Academy Social at Pub Frato - Thursday 9/25 at 5:00pm at Pub Frato in Chagrin Falls. Come join us for a low stress social event with our sister academies. The Chapters will buy the apps, drinks are on you / cash bar. We have the back room reserved and we're looking for better turnout from Navy! As much as I like the Army guys, there's just too many of them and we need you to come join us to restore balance.
• USNA Admissions Forum - Wednesday 9/24 at Gilmour Academy. If you know of any local young men or women who may be interested in learning more about Navy, encourage them to go to this USNA Admissions run forum. Click the attached image or the link above to see the invite.

And although not in September...

• USS Cleveland Commissioning - save the date. Nov 8 remains the official date. We're considering a fun raising campaign from our Chapter to host a meal for the ship's crew during commissioning week. By the way, there are three USNA Alumni that will be on the commissioning crew. How fun is that?

Now here's my Call to Action for you...

We have 320 or so names on this email distribution list. I know some of you are actively serving around the globe in support of our great nation. Thank you. For the rest of us who are currently living in the Northeast Ohio area - I'm encouraging you to pull out your calendar and find a way to join one of the events in September and reconnect with you fellow alumni in the area. 

If you aren't able to attend or don't find these events appealing - and you have an idea for different events or activities - shoot me an email at jim.bartlett44@gmail.com and we'll try to build your ideas into our events.

Have a great holiday weekend, and Go Navy (and Go Buckeyes)!

Jim Bartlett

USNA '88

Classmates, 

     Sorry for all the emails lately, but things are changing daily and I need to get updates out to you so you don't miss something important. Today, I need for anyone traveling with a foreign national to the reunion to send Wendy Owens an email ASAP at: wendy.owen@USNA.COM with the following information for the guest:

-Name, citizenship, DOB and Passport number

She will take care of access to the Yard. This also goes for special needs persons who have a need to drive on the Yard the weekend of our reunion that do not have credentials to do so. Below is the updated Schedule of Events as of today. I added the Class meeting at 1115-1200 at Mitscher and changed the time of the Supe's Brief at Mahan by 30 minutes. Please note this. 

USNA Class of 1985 40th Reunion Schedule of Events: 

Thursday September 18th:

0730-1600 Midshipmen Store hours

0900-1700 Visitor Center and Museum hours

1000-1700 Registration at Westin Annapolis Lobby

1100-1600 Golf Outing at USNA Golf Course

1200-1215 Noon Meal Formation

1800-2100 Welcome Aboard Party at McGarvey’s Saloon

Friday September 19th:

0730-1600 Midshipmen Store hours

0900-1700 Registration at Westin Annapolis Lobby 

0900-1700 Visitor Center and Museum hours

1000-1100 Memorial Service at Main Chapel

1115-1200 Class meeting in Mitscher Hall

1430-1530 Supe’s Brief in Mahan Hall 

1800-2100 Cocktail/Dinner Evening at Fluegel Alumni Center

Saturday September 20th:

0730-1200 Midshipmen Store hours

1000-1200 Women of ’85 Brunch in the Terwilliger Center

0900-1200 Registration at Westin Annapolis Lobby 

0900-1700 Visitor Center and Museum hours

1300-1700 Tailgate at NMCS Tailgate area

1700- Company Events

Sunday September 21st:

0800-1100 Farewell Brunch King Hall

0900-1000 Catholic Service (Main Chapel)

0900-1700 Visitor Center Hours 

1100-1215 Protestant Service (Main Chapel)

1100-1700 Museum Hours

This schedule of events and all other pertinent information about the reunion and upcoming tailgates can be found on the Class of '85 website: http://1985.usnaclasses.net

If you are going to the Navy vs VMI game tomorrow and attending the Class tailgate and have not signed up, here is that the sign up link:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080A48ABAB28AAF49-58151403-wedont

Reminders for the following reunion events that need additional sign ups other than registration: The Golf Outing on Thursday, the Women of '85 Saturday Brunch, if you are attending please remember to sign up for those as instructed in previus emails. Have a great Labor Day Weekend, enjoy that last weekend of Summer and of August as we get one weekend closer to our 40th Reunion. Go Navy, Beat VMI!!

Bob Smith '85 

Classmates,

This is my opening letter to all on our web page:  www.usna67.org (I apologize in advance for the wacky formatting by the word processor...??)

I send it along as we are about to start the 2025 football season and all need to start doing long range planning for our 60th Reunion in 2027:

25 July 2025

Classmates,

Greetings from Annapolis and welcome to the Class webpage –www.usna67.org . Big things are on the docket for the Class of 1967, but first a recap:

1. “The Class of 1967 Alumni Center Support Fund”:

• Informally known as the “1967 Gate Project” where the Class initiated goal of $500K for
the new Fluegel Alumni Association & Foundation Center has been recognized prominently at the
Fluegel Alumni Center’s Gate #1, plus an additional $250K for the large class crest now on the
Fluegel central walkway.

• Our historical leadership project saw us become the #1 Class on the prominent Plank
Owners Board in our Fluegel Alumni Center.

• Thank you again to all who have stepped up as major donors, Plank Owners or other
contributors to this endeavor.

2. We are closing in on choosing the text for our two Pew #67 Chapel plaques, for which we
raised $50K for the Chapel Centennial Fund. Thank you to our donors!

3. Planning is underway for our 60th Reunion in the fall of 2027.

• The reunion will be on Homecoming weekend: October 22, 23 & 24, 2027. Start your long range planning!

• General schedule is:

• Thursday early arrival (optional);

• Friday is check-in at Fluegel Alumni Center mid-morning to afternoon, then a full
food/evening reception (cash bar) at Fluegel;

• Our traditional ‘67 Tailgate on Saturday at N-MC Memorial Stadium (big tent in the
horseshoe end zone) with food matching our last reunions; and the football game
(opponent TBD);

• Saturday evening is for Companies to get together (arranged by Co Reps),

• Possible brunch & memorial service on Sunday to wrap up the reunion (TBD).

• Many more details to come.

• In the near future I will ask for your tentative plans to attend the 60th.

4. The Class football pre-game/halftime/post-game tailgate will again operate outside the
stadium’s Gate D (its traditional spot). The only change to procedure is the format is no longer
a “pot-luck entree,” rather each attendee provides their own sandwich, etc. There will be
appetizers and desserts provided by volunteer classmates, while the Class will continue to
provide the beer/wine/soda/water/glasses/plates/utensils and the tables/tents (inclement
weather).

• I encourage groups of ‘67ers hold football get-togethers (TV watch parties, etc.) or join a
local USNA chapter for their TV watch parties.

5. The traditional ‘67 Army-Navy party in Annapolis is tentatively scheduled for Fluegel
Alumni Center on Saturday, December 13th. Although the 2025 A-N game is scheduled for
M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, many of us will opt into the Fluegel TV watch party event
(we will have a ‘67 table(s) once again reserved – stay tuned.

6. Our outstanding ’67 50th Anniversary Book continues to be a very welcome resource for classmates.

7. Meanwhile...Jon Holtzapfl, Bill Waters and Al Lawver have set a new standard for class-
oriented histories with the printing of “Sworn to Serve”. Many classmates have contributed
their Vietnam (and some “non-Vietnam” theater but VN era experiences) to what is a great
number of personal stories. Those who made a book order will receive instructions in the near future.

"BZ!" and "Atta Boy" go along with our thank you to Jon, Bill, and Al.

8. Finally, as always, we need to stay über-organized as a class and maintain our role and
reputation as a leader and integral part of our greater alumni body. We need to do our part to
ensure USNA continues to be, now and in the future, the national treasure it is. Your officers are
able to lead the Class effectively because we use the ’67 data in the Association’s robust
database. Please keep your profile updated at www.usna.com (click at “My Account”). As always we keep your personal data confidential.

As I am in the database often I note many classmates have not updated email addresses, phone numbers and/or mailing addresses. Please review your data and make appropriate changes.

  
9. Again, our Class Facebook page is where over 450 classmates and spouses are gathering many
of our Class & family photos, videos, and news! (No politics, no over the edge humor or
controversial topics – just “family” material). Search and request to join: “United States Naval
Academy Class of 1967”

• In that "sharing" vein – I ask that you to always consider dropping our Class Scribe, Jim McNeece
scribe67@gmail.com , a paragraph or two about what you & your family have been up to in
the past weeks/months/years! Our Shipmate column is read by every Classmate and we are
interested in what you have to say, and pictures, too .

If you do not receive the "newest (and excellent) Alumni Association newsletter - The Daily Shipmate - you need to. It is a vital conduit for AA-FDN news of alumni and happenings across USNA and alumni endeavors. Go to www.usna.com and sign up!

10. I ask all of you to consider keeping your USNA charitable gifts coming to the USNA
Foundation over the next year(s), while strongly considering staying, or becoming, at a
minimum, an annual Presidents Circle member at $2,500 per calendar year.

• I also encourage all to consider the USNA Foundation Planned Giving Program and become
a member of the Robert Means Thompson Society. Go to www.usna.com/WaysToGive .

• We ’67ers need to do our part in ensuring that USNA remains the premier leadership
institution in the land.

11. I urge all Classmates to be involved with your local Chapter! You don’t need to attend all/any of
the events or be a leader (although many of our fellow classmates have been or are still serving
in leadership roles); just join and be connected to USNA through another avenue.

12. I again want to thank WAYNE SAVAGE (VP), JIM McNEECE (Scribe), JACK PARRY (Treasurer), DICK MEADE (Web and Database Guru - “Dick of the Database” - DOTDB), and MAUREEN PHILLIPS
(our ‘67 Store Manager since classmate Steve (RIP) passed away a few months ago) for their
continued service.

Go ’67!

Beat Them all and then BEAT ARMY!

Dave

Classmates -

It appears that this may not have gotten to the class, so I am retransmitting it.

The class of 2026 has begun their last year at USNA following a fantastic Ring Dance and Summer Cruise/Plebe Detail. There will be serveral chances to interact with the class during the upcoming year culminating in Graduation. There is one more opportunity to directly impact the class of 2026 by donating a no longer used or promised sword.  We have had commitments from a couple of classmates as well as having donations from the classes of 1964 and 1966.  There may be a donation from the class of 1926.

Unlike the swords presented to the graduates for scholarship, leadership, or athletics, you, the donor, can stipulate the requirements for donation. We request that the crieteria be serious and reflect the significance of the donation.  The request might be a specific company, for a specific activity or mix (highest QPR pre-med major athlete), or a graduate for your hometown or some other specific criteria of your choosing.  Your wishes will be honored.

There is ample time to collect the sworeds but having them in the early Spring of 2026 would be optimal.   A sword from 1964 was shipped via UPS and arrived in perfect condition.  Short of personally delivering the sword (which could be at a home game tailgate or to either Kevin Stone or mayself) the UPS method is a great option.

As I said, there is time to consider this last oportunity to directly "llink" to 2026, but I wanted to get you thinking about it now.

Have a great Labor Day weekend and a great year.

Warmest Regards, 

Mark Nesselrode

755-670-7878

Docness2k8@gmail.com

Hello again '85,

    To save more of you from having to email and help me promote Stu Munsch to a Four Star, consider that done and my apologies to Stu for this oversight (I will buy his first beer at McGarvey's)! Don't trust Wikipedia is the lesson here, Classmate Stuart Munsch is a FOUR STAR ADMIRAL!! I needed to get some more reunion content out today, so this is a perfect segway into doing that. We still have a few golf slots available for Thurdsay's outing at the USNA Golf course, please email our Class VP, Steve Pimpo, ASAP at: sjpimpo@comcast.net  he will hook you up. He got some sweet looking golf balls made for participatants, so worth it just to get some cool balls for your collection. The overstock hotel room is claimed, so glad we could save a classmate some money. 

     Let's talk Army/Navy! I know, this is much later in the season, but, never too early to plan for that game. Class of '85 is hosting a Decade of the 80's Pregame, Indoor tailgate at the Wico Street Beer Company in downtown Baltimore. This be an $85 all you can and drink event going from 1130-1430, and for those not attending the game, the bar will convert to a watch party on their large projection screen and a cash bar. I am priming you now, because there is a limited number of slots and I will open up a 2 day early registration window for '85, then open it up for all the 80's classes to attend. It WILL be sold out and this IS the tailgate you want to be at if you are going to the game, or just want to watch it with classmates and enjoy some great scratch food washed down with fresh brewed beer/cider/sodas. Mark your calendars and I will have this registration up and running by September 1st. 

     Okay, that is it for now, please visit: http://1985.usnaclasses.net and stay tuned into all things reunion. Message me with questions and enjoy the return of Fall Football and Navy kicking butt again this year! Go Navy, Beat everyone!

Bob Smith '85 

Or is it 6 days? 5 and a wake up? Someone ask a pleber will ya?! Then hit a bulkhead and brace up of you don't know your rates below. This information was already pushed out through myUSNA. Don't have that gouge? Head on over to the link below to update your account. Think you have it running but aren't getting the emails? Check your profile to make sure your email is correct and be sure to opt in to receiving notifications under the settings.

1994.myusna.com

Now on to the good stuff...

Our class tailgates continue to be hugely successful events. In order to help plan and execute these events, we are switching to a new platform for tailgate registration and payment. If you have attended a recent reunion, you will recognize the SignUpNow events platform hosted by a member of the class of 94-3. You can register for the Rally Weekend and all of the home tailgates through this site. We will continue to send reminders througout the season as well.

New for this season, get a Discounted Tailgate Season Pass! 

Season pass deal! All 6 home game tailgates (including the Rally Weekend Tailgate!) at a discounted price! Special bracelet! '94 tailgate location - Blue Side Spot 22. There will be food, beer, soda, water, plates, utensils, etc. Feel free to bring a side dish to share. Cost of the Season Pass is $130 for Classmates, family and guests, family/guests under 21 are $70--six tailgates for the price of five! Army vs. Navy tailgate not included, stay tuned for details! To get a season pass, go to the registration link above, select 8/30 for the schedule date, and then select season pass.  

Please use this link to register for the Rally Weekend and home football tailgates:

https://signupnow.events/USNA1994

For all home tailgates, we ask that you please register by the Wednesday evening of that week's game so we can get the food order right. But can I sign up as late as when I show up to the tailgate? You sure can! QR codes for the registration site will be available at each tailgate. We will still accept cash, of course.

Each individual home tailgate can be selected by navigating to the date of the event. The Rally Weekend events are all listed separately on their respective dates. See below for more information on the Navy Football schedule and the Rally Weekend schedule.  

Navy Football Schedule

30 Aug (1200) vs VMI 

6 Sep (330) vs UAB 

27 Sep (330) vs Rice (Rally Weekend)

4 Oct (1200) vs Air Force 

25 Oct (330) vs FL Atlantic (HC)

15 Nov (1200) vs S. Florida

13 Dec vs Army (Baltimore)

Rally Weekend Details

Friday, September 26: 

1500-1800 - Pickleball Tournament at Truxtun Park. Registration is required. POC is Sean Quinn.

1800- ??? - Welcome social at McGarvey’s Saloon & Oyster Bar. No host, no fee, but please register so we can reserve the right amount of space. 

Saturday, September 27: 

1230~1930 - Rally Weekend Tailgate, blue spot 22, N-MC Stadium. Registration is required. Tailgate will end 1 hour after Navy beats Rice. 

1530- kickoff vs Rice. Link for football tickets in 94 group: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Class19945

Sunday, September 28: 

0700- 1300 - golf at Bay Hills. Registration is required.  

1130-1300 - golf social at

Bay Hills. Non golfers welcome, registration required.  

Classmates,

This is my second attempt at sending this - yesterday's e-mail apparently did not go out.

I am very sad to inform you of the death of our classmate, the Honorable Robert Anthony Andretta. I received a phone call from Phill Ferrara yesterday informing me of Bob's death. Below is the e-mail he received from Bob's wife, Betty. I have sent my condolences to her on your behalf and will forward any arrangements for his funeral service when received.

Bob was a regular attendee at our monthly class lunch at McGarvey's. He and I established a warm relationship albeit late in our lives. It was always good to see and talk with him. His presence will be missed at our future lunches. We will pay tribute to him at our September lunch and his usual seat at the table will go unoccupied.

Bob was one of the most highly decorated true warriors in our class from Vietnam. He was very proud of his servive there and he truly loved the Vietnamese people he did his best to help and protect. He will be missed as one of the readers of fallen classmates at our 60th reunion.

May God bless him and may he Rest in peace,

Jim

From: Elizabeth Andretta <andretta.elizabeth@gmail.com>
Date: August 22, 2025 at 2:10:14 PM EDT
To: Phil Ferrara <pferrara65@comcast.net>
Cc: Phil Ferrara <pferrara65@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: Class Lunch.........Wednesday,  SEPTEMBER 3...........McGarvey's Saloon

Bob Andretta died in his sleep early this morning. He loved the monthly lunches with his classmates. Thank you all for helping him attend right until the end. 

Warmly 

Betty

Sent from my iPhone

Classmates,

This is my second attempt at sending this - yesterday's e-mail apparently did not go out.

I am very sad to inform you of the death of our classmate, the Honorable Robert Anthony Andretta. I received a phone call from Phill Ferrara yesterday informing me of Bob's death. Below is the e-mail he received from Bob's wife, Betty. I have sent my condolences to her on your behalf and will forward any arrangements for his funeral service when received.

Bob was a regular attendee at our monthly class lunch at McGarvey's. He and I established a warm relationship albeit late in our lives. It was always good to see and talk with him. His presence will be missed at our future lunches. We will pay tribute to him at our September lunch and his usual seat at the table will go unoccupied.

Bob was one of the most highly decorated true warriors in our class from Vietnam. He was very proud of his servive there and he truly loved the Vietnamese people he did his best to help and protect. He will be missed as one of the readers of fallen classmates at our 60th reunion.

May God bless him and may he Rest in peace,

Jim

From: Elizabeth Andretta <andretta.elizabeth@gmail.com>
Date: August 22, 2025 at 2:10:14 PM EDT
To: Phil Ferrara <pferrara65@comcast.net>
Cc: Phil Ferrara <pferrara65@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: Class Lunch.........Wednesday,  SEPTEMBER 3...........McGarvey's Saloon

Bob Andretta died in his sleep early this morning. He loved the monthly lunches with his classmates. Thank you all for helping him attend right until the end. 

Warmly 

Betty

Sent from my iPhone

Classmates,

I am very sad to have to inform you of the death of our classmate, the Honorable Robert Anthony Andretta. I received a phone call from Phil Ferrara this afternnoon informing me of Bob 's death earlier today. I have copied Betty's e-mail to Phil below.

Bob was one of the true highly decorated warriors in our class while serving in Vietnam. He was proud of his service and truly loved the Vietnamese people he tried to help and protect.

Bob was a regular attendee at our class monthly lunches at McGarvey's. It was always nice to see him and we established a warm relationship there albeit late in our lives in spite of our liberal and conservative ideologies. He was a loyal and caring classmate. We will miss him at lunch and pay tribute to him at our September gathering. The chair where he usually sits will be unoccupied. We will also miss his reading of the names of our fallen classmates at our 60th reunion.

I will share my condolences with Betty on your behalf and hope to provide you the information on the arrangements for his funeral service so that many of us will be able to attend.

Sadly,

Jim

From: Elizabeth Andretta <andretta.elizabeth@gmail.com>
Date: August 22, 2025 at 2:10:14 PM EDT
To: Phil Ferrara <pferrara65@comcast.net>
Cc: Phil Ferrara <pferrara65@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: Class Lunch.........Wednesday,  SEPTEMBER 3...........McGarvey's Saloon

Bob Andretta died in his sleep early this morning. He loved the monthly lunches with his classmates. Thank you all for helping him attend right until the end. 

Warmly 

Betty

Sent from my iPhone

I have been asked to send a Class Blast regarding the recent email you received from the Alumni Association via Wendy Owen on "Creating your Reunion Cruise Book".

Wendy is the person who supports the invdividual classes and class presidents.

Over the years, the Class Presidents have requested help from the Alumni Association in the planning and execution of reunions.   The Executive Director of the Alumni Association, TJ "Catfish" Grady and his staff found this application and are able to offer it, free of charge, to all classes.

Tom Kelley, Committee Chair 50th Reunion, and I were informed last week that this would be offered to all classes and would be launched this week.   It is "short fused", especially for those classes holding thier reunions earlier in the year.   Obviously it will be a much greater benefit to classes holding thier reunions in the following years.  We do appreciate the efforts of the Alumni Association in providing this program.

While it is not part of our reunion committee efforts, we are aware of the process and support it.   It will be helpful in efforts started to hopefully produce a post reunion "Lucky Bag" for the class of '75.   

There is no obligation for you to participate in this program.   The information you provide will only be available to our class and could provide the basis of information we can use later for the reunion "Lucky Bag".   

We hope this clarifies the program.  

Regards,

Chick

Here's the latest info: 

1. Informal Presentation on Medicare and TRICARE For Life (TFL) for ‘82

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, August 28
• Time: 6:30 PM (Eastern)
• Registration: Register Here

Important Instructions:

• Register at least 24 hours before the event and Zoom entry codes will be sent to you.
• For questions, contact: VICAP@alexandriava.gov.

What to Expect:

• Overview of Medicare and TFL
• Key facts and timelines
• Clarification of important issues
• Opportunity for Q&A at the end

We look forward to your participation. If you have already have your card, you can attend and type lessons learned in the “chat”!

2. Gear up for a “Beat Army” '25 Navy football season and '82 tailgaters! Here’s the scoop on the ’82 tailgater.

New: We’re excited to be teaming up with '70 in Lot 44. They are a great group, so please take a moment to introduce yourselves. They have been incredibly supportive in helping us create a "0 lift" tailgate process for the timeless class of ’82!

What: Bayside Bull brunch buffet for 8/30/25: Tailgaters will be catered by Bayside Bill and Mission BBQ throughout the season. Mixed Berry Salad, Open Pit Beef Sliders with Arugula and Horseradish, Cream Turkey and Brie Sliders with Berry Compote, Ham and Cheddar Sliders with Granny Smith Apple and Dijon Mustard, Mediterranean Pasta Salad and Home Made Kettle Chips with French Onion Dip.

When: 1000 - 1700

Where: Tailgater Spot 44, Due South of the Blue Angel along the tree-lined perimeter. Look for ’70 and ’82 flags.

Notes:

1. Bring chairs
2. Payment here: Pricing Information:

• Full Season Pass: $25 per game for classmates and spouses.
• Individual Game Tickets: $30 per game for classmates and their spouses.
• Credit Card Fee: A transaction fee applies for credit card payments, which goes to Sign Up Now.
• Discounts for Guests: Special prices are available for guests of classmates and kids attending individual games.
• Registration Deadline for individual games: Please ensure you sign up by the Tuesday before each game, so accurate numbers can be provided for the caterer. This deadline does not apply to full season sign-ups.

Most important: Please, need pre and post-game coordinators to work with ‘70’s game coordinators

• Pregame responsibilities: Hang ’82 flag and monitor catering set up, two and a half hours prior to game start. Monitor spreadsheet for attendees who have signed up for catered meal or would like to pay in cash.
• Post game responsibilities: beginning 30 minutes after Blue and Gold: Gather up trash and put in corner of lot 44 and take down flag.

Please let me know a date and pre or post or both, for the following dates:

1. 8/30/25
2. 9/6/25
3. 9/06/25
4. 9/27/25
5. 10/04/25 – Air Force
6. 10/25/25
7. 11/15/25

3. Rett needs scoop: Send him some news and pix: Rett@Rasmussen.biz.

Keep those thoughts and questions coming.

Looking Good ‘82

Jane – jtcnaples@yahoo.com

Hello 90,

It is with a deep, heavy, and saddened heart that I share some devastating news.  On August 11, our classmate Will Clarke's son, LT Christopher Jayden ("CJay") Clarke passed away.  CJay is a USNA 2021 graduate, a pilot in HSC-23, younger brother to LT Savannah Clarke, and much-loved only son of Will and Danielle.

For our classmates who wish to provide a show of support to Will and his family, there will be two opportunities to do so.  On the morning of 29AUG, there will be a memorial service hosted by CJay's squadron at North Island, Coronado.  Shortly thereafter, early afternoon on 08SEP, there will be a memorial service in Will and Danielle's community in Cortlandt Manor, NY.  I will pass along more specifics of the services as I get them.

If any classmates plan to attend either of these events, please contact John Lunger on his personal email at john.lunger@gmail.com.  He will collate and pass the information along to Will and Danielle.  

Will desires to keep this news off of our class social accounts (e.g. Facebook), so further information in this regard will be sent via this class email or through John Lunger's email regarding RSVPs.  

Please, please pray for the arm of God to comfort the Clarke family during this extremely difficult time.  We love you Will...

May God grant CJay eternal rest,

Bendik

Hello and greetings from Sunny Las Vegas,

      Guess what '85? We are just one month from making that exciting trek to Annapolis and a month from now we will be checking into our hotel rooms, BNB's, friends houses, etc. Throwing on our best USNA gear and heading to McGarvey's Saloon ready to grab some amazing food, a cold adult beverage or four and dive into a the first night of revelrey as our 40th Reunion weekend kicks off. Registrtion is now slow and steady and I am sure will have one more push as those last minute planners can finally commit. I am very excited and as the events take their final shape, I am working to get signage and ballon arches designed, table center pieces and all the final plans put into place and we are finally there enjoying USNA, Annapolis and each other!! I commend you all for making this a well attended event and one I promise will meet the moment. Get your last minute apparel and other reunion items ordered and get ready for some fun. If you have not registered, go to our Class website at: 

http://1985.usnaclasses.net

I will be placing more schedule info as I get it, but everything you need is on that site so bookmark it and visit it often. We will have some of the reunion items on display and second ordering windows will open for watches, glassware and duffel bags. Contact me if you have any questions or need anything at all. If you asked for an event or full refund, those should be issued already and if not, in the next day or two. Contact me if you haven't seen anything in a few days and we will get it done for you. Go enjoy the final days of summer and get ready for Football season, the coming of Fall and or course, September 18th-21st on the banks of the Severn River and the Chesapeake Bay as we crush our 40th Reunion weekend!! See you all in a few weeks. Go Navy, Beat Everyone!

Bob Smith '85

Hi everyone!
I hope you’re all having a great weekend. Our reunion weekend is less than 3 weeks away and I know I’m excited to see you all.

Remember to sign up on the registration site: http://track.smtpsendemail.com/6026964/c?p=C2Ufsfs3XqVMA507ncql_bp7ojuaLAmzSrZjBccnmuROwRjcqcJW2hsofLwZpomouGSx6SJ2vclg8OzXe-SBOD3FdpDcVnS9v6JEKF_6epQV65mLBRWPxafIkjI1_IJmL_y2ITZ51hrRDVT_iFZQDB-Q6I94QiCzq7kfLrneNr6Ns5VyXluRKYv1K2HYy0Zu

We owe numbers for the reception and tailgate and it helps having the most accurate count ahead of time, so please register today.

Hotel blocks have closed (links no longer work) but there are rooms still available at The Graduate- call them and you may be able to get the 2000 rate.

For those of you with foreign national spouses/significant others that want to attend events on the yard, please send me you and your spouse’s name so I can get your spouse/significant other on the security access list.

The events are all coming together.  Thursday's no-host will be at the Trophy Room in the Graduate hotel, from 5pm-8pm.  You can check in for the weekend starting there.  

Special thanks to all the corporate sponsors (through work of our classmates) and individuals who have put forth their own time and money to help make our reunion extra special with unique experiences like the Pat McGee Band and bringing in families of our fallen classmates.  If you'd like to contribute to the special events let us know.  Also, we still need volunteers for the Remebrance Ceremony on Sunday.  

***In other news- The John R. Elliott HERO Campaign is unveiling the second Anne Arundel County vehicle with HERO Campaign wrap on Thursday, August 28th at noon in front of O’Loughlins in the Bay Dale Shopping Center in Arnold.  This is the second AACO vehicle honoring our fallen classmate John. Last year’s unveiling of the first vehicle was a special and memorable event. I encourage anyone who can attend to do so.

See you all soon!

Good afternoon 2000. 

I hope you all are having a great weekend.  We're less than 3 weeks away from Reunion weekend and I know I'm super excited to see everyone!

Reminder to register for the Reunion if you haven't already.  We owe our numbers for the reception and tailgate in the next few days.  

If you are late in getting a hotel, our room blocks have officially closed, but you can still try to get a room at the Graduate or another local hotel.  

For those coming to the reunion events on the yard who have foreign national spouses/significant others - send me the information (yours and your spouse's name) so we can get it to security so you'll all have access to the yard. 

Other news-  The John R. Elliott HERO Campaign is unveiling the second Anne Arundel County vehicle with the HERO Campaign wrap, in honor of our fallen classmate John Ellitott, on Thursday, August 28 at noon at O'Loughlins in the Bay Dale Shopping Center in Arnold, MD.  I encourage anyone who is able to attend, especially those of us who knew John.  The first vehicle unveiling last year was a very special and powerful event.  

See you all soon!

Doug

Classmates -

The class of 2026 has begun their last year at USNA following a fantastic Ring Dance and subsequent Summer Cruise/Plebe Detail. There will be several chances to interact with the class during the upcoming year culminating in Graduation.  There is one more opportunity to directly impact the class of 2026 by donating a no longer used or promised sword. We have had commitments form a couple of classmates as well as having donations from the classes of 1964 and 1966.  There may also be a donation from the class of 1926.

Ulike the swords presented to the graduates for scholarship, leadership, or athletics, you, the donor can stipuate the requirements for donation. We request that the criteria be serious and reflect the significance of the donation.  The request might be to a specific company, for a specific activity or mix (e.g. highest QPR pre-med major athlete), or a graduate from your hometown or some other specific criteria of your choosing.  Your wishes will be honored.

There is ample time to collect the swords but having them in the early Spring of 2026 would be optimal.  A sword from 1964 was shipped via UPS and arrived in perfect condition.  Short of personally delivering the sword (which could be at a home game tailgate or to either Kevin Stone or myself, the UPS method is a great option. 

As I said, there is time to consider this last oportunity to directly "link" to 2026, but I wanted to give you a chance to start thinking about it now.  

Have a great rest of the summer and a great year!

Warmest Regards, 

Mark Nesselrode
757-670-7878
Docness2k8@gmail.com

Arkansas USNA Alumni,

I wanted to share an important update regarding our chapter leadership. With the arrival of our newborn son, Jackson (future  USNA Class of 2047!), and the growing demands of my family, business, and nonprofit work, I’ve decided to pass the baton as Chapter President.

Our Chapter Treasurer, Jason Coyle ’09, will serve as the new Chapter President. Jason is based in Northwest Arkansas and is eager to take on this role and help revitalize the alumni chapter.

With this change, Jason will be seeking a volunteer to step into the Chapter Treasurer role. If you are interested in serving in this capacity, please reply to this email and let us know.

It has been an honor to serve as Chapter President, and I look forward to staying involved as a member of our alumni community. Thank you for your support, camaraderie, and commitment to the Naval Academy family here in Arkansas.

Go Navy!
Steve Colley ’08

Hi 90!

As mentioned in the subject, we not have over 300 classmates registered for the 35th Reunion on Oct 3-5, 2025!  We have 301 at this point. 

233 have paid and 68 have registered and not paid yet.  This is shaping up to be a great event.  It looks like Companies 18 and 19 have the most registrants thus far tied at 14 folks.  If you haven't registered, please go to the registration website at:

https://signupnow.events/usna1990

Another question is being asked- when is the class website for extra purchases opening?  The answer is we are almost there.  We should have a site running in a week or so.  Stand by.

We are still looking for singers for the Memorial Service.  Please email me at fbendik90@yahoo.com if you would like to join us.

Beat Army!

BENDIK

     I was contacted yesterday by Yvette who asked me to extend an invitation to all our classmates to attend her Change of Command this coming Friday, 15 August, at 1400 in Dahlgren Hall.  She would love for as many 89ers as possible to be her special guests on this very important day!

     A formal invitation to the event will be forthcoming.

     I hope that many of you will be able to attend the ceremony and have the opportunity to wish her well in her new assignment.

     Many thanks, and all the best,

       Denise

'

SHIPMATES,

Here is the latest update for BGOs in our area from Nancy Brooks '86 - Area 207 BGO Coordinator.

If you know high school students who are interested in USNA, you may refer them to the BGO assigned to their school.

A HUGE THANK YOU TO NANCY and to all of the BGOs listed below - for ensuring USNA has outstanding candidates from which to assemble the Brigade and fuel the Fleet, and for ensuring our Chapter has appointees to Welcome Aboard every June!

The following HIGH SCHOOLS are assigned to these distinguished graduates:

Albemarle, Covenant, Fishburne, Waynesboro, Stuarts Draft -- Mike McDermott '75 --  mcdermottmj75@gmail.com 

Fluvanna and Louisa -- Mat Cantagallo '99 (U of Florida) ----  cantags@gmail.com 

Charlottesville and Monticello -- Tom Schauder '82  ---- schaudtom44@gmail.com 

Western Albemarle, William Monroe, Blue Ridge School, Miller School -- Ed Borger '80 --  ed828borger@gmail.com 

St. Anne's-Belfield and Staunton -- Chris Abbott '00 ---- abbottc35@gmail.com 

Woodberry Forest, Orange, and Madison -- Rich Maurer '77 ---- rlmaurer505@yahoo.com

Fort Defiance, all schools not listed -- Nancy Brooks '86  (Area 207 BGO Coordinator) -- nbrooks421@gmail.com 

WE ALWAYS NEED BLUE & GOLD OFFICERS -- please contact Nancy if interested.

Go Navy!

Bill Murray '83

Chapter Vice President

Hello 2000! 

Hello 2000! 

Classmates:

Leo Koerkenmeier (18) passed away on 19 July, 2025. On Monday, 4 August, there will be.a funerql service, followed bty a celebration of life, in Ashburn, Virginia, further details in the following obituary.

Doug Hayman
Secretary, Class Executive Commitee

Dear 75,

As we prepared to inurn my roomate in 2019, we were informed that the columbarium would be out of space by 2025, if not underwater by then.   They were extremely accurate in those predictions and as you all know, the columbarium is full.   The effort to install a new seawall appears to have stemmed the tide.   

We have worked with the USNA Architect, two Superintendants, the Secretary of the Navy and the USNA Foundation since 2019 to come up with a plan for the columbarium.   

Since the class of '75 had taken the lead on the program to build the new columbarium, we were able to negotiate naming rights, recognition of the class and donors on the new columbarium when completed.   

The great class of '75 led the way in fundraising for the new columbarium.   While our target was based on early negotiations, as expected the cost of building the new columbarium continued to grow.  Still the Foundation agreed to continue to honor our agreements.   

'75 has raised over $700,000 toward our goaI.  It became clear that we needed to increase our efforts to raise funds and accelerate the building of the new columbarium.   '75 was asked to engage other classes and in the spring of this year we began briefing other classes on our efforts.   

I was informed this morning that a very generous donor from the Class of '69 has decided to join in the '75 effort and  donate the remainder of the funds necessary to start construction on the new columbarium.   

Bravo Zulu '75.   Outstanding effort!   Thank you to the excellent work of our Class Gift committee led by Bill Squires and Eric Guerrazzi who have spearheaded all of the projects in our class gift which will be presented to the Superintendant at the 50th reunion   More importantly, thank you to all our fantanstic donors from '75.

The columbarium will remain in the efforts of '75 and other classes as we progress toward the other new components and sustaining the structures and surrounding areas.  

All the best,

Chris Cikanovich

Hello 2000!

Registrations are coming in hot.  If you haven't already- please remember to register now.  Prices go up August 4th (We've extended the early-bird registration rates from the Aug 1st to 4th). Registration link here:

https://www.SignUpNow.Events/USNA2000

Also remember to buy your pre-order reunion/class gear before August 11. : Class of 2000 – Elegant Violence Navy Rugby Apparel 

Everything with the reunion is all coming together and the reunion committee (and other classmates) are working hard to make our 25th a truly amazing time. 

2 BIG REQUESTS: 

1) Please forward this to your roommates, companymates and friends – text, call, smoke signals, however you reach out to your friends- to help us get the word out.

2) Remembrance Ceremony (Sunday, September 7 at 1000 in Dahlgren Hall): we are looking for someone in the class who can play Taps as part of the ceremony. We are also looking for former Glee Club Members or vocalists who can help lead The Navy Hymn. If you are interested, please email: shipmate00@yahoo.com

Have a great week and see everyone in September!  Don't forget to keep sending the 2000 Faces.

If you have any reunion related questions don't hesitate to reach out to me douglas.bollock@gmail.com or message me on Facebook.  

Doug

Shipmates!

We're 30 days and a wakeup out from our 15yr reunion. Details are coming together and I'll be able to share a lot more information event-by-event, but a few things to call out today:

(1) If you haven't already registered, it's not too late (it's never too late) but it's really helpful to coordinators that you sign up as soon as you've made the decision to join us, particularly as leadership is working hard to ensure the right cash flow in the class account to cut checks for the remaining costs of our big ticket items. So help us out and knock out your registration ASAP: https://www.signupnow.events/Default.aspx?OrgId=1038&eid=1150&OrgName=USNA2010 

(2) I need a small working party on Friday, specifically during the Welcome Party at Ross' house on Worden Field but would be great to understand if you are available do a few different things throughout the day. Email me to volunteer: miastender1@gmail.com.

(3) Anyone dabbling in event photography as a side hustle (or post-service career!) or have a partner with a business that 2010 can looking into supporting for a few specific reunion events? Let me know. 

(4) The Schedule of Events (SOE) on the Registration page still reflects the later game/tailgate start, but that will be updated in the next couple days along with the scheduling for the group promotion to O-5.

(5) Reminder that the game is set for noon so the tailgate will open at 10am, and you must have a game ticket to enter the tailgate. Tickets are running low for the game generally and the link to the block for our classmates to sit together expires at 12am on 1 August (so midnight Thursday) so don't wait any longer on this part if you haven't knocked it out yet: https://www.gofevo.com/event/2010usna2. 

Can't wait to see you all in Annapolis so soon, 285 classmates registered as of this send! 

INVICTUS

Mia Stender

Good evening Classmates & Family,

34 days remain until our upcoming reunion. Football season is fast approaching.

I wanted to inform you that the Hilton Garden Inn has lowered their reservation rates:

Thursday 08/28/2025     $119

Friday       08/29/2025     $169

Saturday  08/30/2025     $169

Sunday     08/31/2025     $119

The Hilton Garden Inn registration link is here: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/bwiangi-2010na-9f6dba49-7a19-4849-a015-021a21a3985/

Please keep in mind if you select all four nights, it reflects the average rate. If you select Friday and/or Saturday, the rate will be $169.00. The price for Friday and/or Saturday was originally $269.00, so it's a significant discount. 

For those who have not registered, a friendly reminder that tailgate fees increase to $250.00 starting July 31st. That is the start of the “Late Joiner” prices. Please be advised.

Please let me know if you have questions. 

Beat Army,

Garth

LCDR Garth Thomas

USNA '10 Vice President