USS CONSTANT
MOBILITY AND CONNECTIVITY MAKE FRIENDS

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    • 5/25/2006 12:00 PM Kenneth C. Keith wrote:
      The first time I stepped aboard the Constant was in Guam, in 1970, going TDY from the Energy. We were going to sea and anchor detail. I went to my station in the Fwd Eng Rm. as they were casting off lines as I came aboard. I was at the top of the Eng Rm ladder as they were casting off #1 line, and the entire ship went dead in the water. Someone had forgotten to top off the Day Tank for the generators, and they had run out of fuel. The first instinct was panic, and I seriously thought about jumping ship, and swimming back to the Energy. What started out to be a very bad day, did eventually wind up to be a very rewarding and mostly, (for a Snipe, anyway) a pleasant cruise to Nam and time on the line. I returned to the Energy in Feb, when she relieved the Constant on the line at Cam Rahn Bay. After spending 3 years on Tugboats at Port Hueneme,71-74, I was transferred back to the Constant, in Dec, 74, and left her when I got my Discharge in July 76. I think of the Constant often, even more than I do the other two sweeps I was on, and with more pleasant memories. The web site has brought back many memories, Thank you for a job well done. SFC Kenneth C. Keith USAR,Infantry, Retired. (Formerly EN2)
      Reply to this
    • 5/25/2006 12:01 PM Bravo Zulu Charlie wrote:
      Howard, this is AWESOME! Just checked it out! Bravo Zulu Charlie
      Reply to this
    • 5/25/2006 12:02 PM Name withheld for security reasons wrote:
      I found this website, and even though my husband is in the Army and not the Navy, this is a very special site for all the men and women in uniform. Thank you!
      Reply to this
    • 5/25/2006 12:05 PM Tom Marshall wrote:
      2/13/06 2000 hr I have thouroughly enjoyed going over this website. I found a lot of names on the crew roster that I had forgotten, but remembered as soon as I saw them. I have a few photos from when I was aboard and will try to get them to you to add to it. I still don't have a confirmation on the reunioin this fall, but I will try to make it there. Thanks for bringing back some good memories. Tom Marshall BM3 70-71
      Reply to this
      1. 6/12/2006 8:03 AM howard wrote:
        Tom the reunion will be at Branson MO the 6th, 7th, and 8th of October. Contact me. There's a place on the web page for answers to reunion queries. Use it. Howard
        Reply to this
    • 5/25/2006 12:43 PM Don wrote:
      This is a test of the published blog.
      Reply to this
    • 6/6/2006 4:31 PM Don Tigges wrote:
      Hi,

      This is a good site and this is a test of the blog.
      Reply to this
    • 6/9/2006 10:39 AM David Rendon wrote:
      Arrrrr Matey!
      Reply to this
    • 6/22/2006 1:27 PM JACK DAVIS wrote:
      WANT TO SAY HELLO TO ALL MY SHIPMATES ABOARD 65/67
      Reply to this
      1. 9/7/2006 9:49 AM Tom Doble wrote:
        Jack,
        I dont know if you will rememver me because I don't remember you. I was aboard from 1965-1967 also.
        I was a engineman and of course I spent most of my time in the hole. I have been looking for a few people maybe you can help.
        My phone number is 703 919 3490
        Reply to this
    • 6/22/2006 5:30 PM MSgt Donald R Constant USMC wrote:
      I was the communications chief for the 5th Marine Amphibious Brigade on the USS Pelelieu LHA-5 RimPac-84 and our ships exchanged honors [ manned the rails]as we warped alongside the pier. I'm sorry to see the demise of your ship, especially before I had the opportunity to visit. Farewell, shipmates.

      Donald R Constant
      Master Sergeant U.S. Marine Corps, Ret
      Fire Chief, Camelot VFD, Ret
      Teacher
      Reply to this
    • 7/5/2006 11:39 PM Skip Sallade RD1 wrote:
      I served on USS Constant MSO 427 from Dec55 for a 44month period. Made the 1st and 2nd westpac deployments. I would like to hear from any that were on her, especially during that period.
      Reply to this
      1. 1/4/2009 9:45 PM Wm J Fitz Fitzgeald EN2 wrote:
        Hi Sallade, I served Dec 55 until May 58. Was the little sports car you bought when you shipped for 6 and MG. Hope to hear from you, Fitz.
        Reply to this
      2. 2/17/2009 10:14 PM William J 'Fitz' Fitzgerald wrote:
        Hi Skip, I sent you a second e-mail to the address you sent me not the one that I first used. I would like for you to send me another.
        Later, Fitz
        Reply to this
    • 9/7/2006 9:55 AM Tom Doble wrote:
      I was aboard the USS Constant from 1965-1967. Like to hear from any of my old shipmates from that era.
      Tom
      Reply to this
      1. 9/17/2006 10:43 AM Charlie Lawrence wrote:
        Tom, I remember you. I was an HT on board from 1966 - 1968. You and I tried to build a still to make some "apple Jack". Who else have you heared from?
        Reply to this
    • 10/23/2006 2:49 PM Tom Doble wrote:
      Does anyone know it there is a chart, table or what ever used by the VA to determine a persons disability for an injury or illness. If there is can it be found in the VA web site. Every time I ask the VA they skirt the issue. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Tom
      Reply to this
      1. 10/24/2006 9:27 PM howard hill wrote:
        Tom
        Go to your DAV rep. He will get you started. VA won't give the time of day
        Howard
        Reply to this
    • 10/30/2006 2:47 PM JACK DAVIS wrote:
      I STILL REMEMBER THE FRIST DAY I COME ABOARD I THOUGHT THIS SMALL SHIP CAN" GO OUT IN THE OCEAN
      Reply to this
    • 10/30/2006 8:16 PM Ray Erkson wrote:
      I was on the USS Constant from 6-58 to 1-59. I would like to find out how I can get my name, rank, etc. on the USS Constant Shipmates Roster.

      Ray ERkson IC3
      Reply to this
      1. 11/3/2006 2:37 PM howard hill wrote:
        Ray
        Call at 918 787 2577 or reply to this email.
        Howard
        Reply to this
      2. 11/7/2006 8:10 PM Charles T. Eaton wrote:
        Ray: Give me a phone call, 513-404-9635 and I'll help you.
        Charlie Eaton
        Reply to this
    • 11/18/2006 12:58 PM Robert Poole wrote:
      Great site Charlie!
      I was an Engineman aboard the USS Constant from August 1963 to June 1965. Would like to hear from my old shipmates. Bob Poole
      Reply to this
    • 11/20/2006 9:25 PM EN1 SW AW Charles H Cook wrote:
      Was stationed on board from March 1988-November 1989
      Reply to this
      1. 11/26/2006 1:16 PM Charles T Eaton wrote:
        Charles: I am the MSO427 Reunion Coordinator and I have a database of over 200 shipmates who served aboard most of the years the ship was in commission. We would love to add your information to our roster. Please contact me @ 513-404-9635 and let me know your address and phone to share with the crew. We are having our 8th. reunion this coming year in Albany, GA and would love to have you with us. I was an RM3 onboard 63-65. Jack Davis/Signalman/70's is hosting the upcoming reunion in GA. I certainly hope you will contact me soon and I will send you an updated roster of our crew. Until later, Charles T. Eaton, Ex/RM3/AKC/RET
        Reply to this
        1. 12/12/2006 11:22 AM Eric Anderson wrote:
          Charles, I was XO 88-89 and just entered my name and address on the blog. I'd like to be included in reunion info, etc. Eric Anderson, LCDR, USN-Ret. LCDREA@aol.com
          Reply to this
          1. 12/17/2006 12:27 PM Charles Eaton wrote:
            Eric:

            Please contact me, cceatonky@aol.com or 513-404-9635.
            Thanks, Charlie Eaton :>)
            Reply to this
      2. 11/27/2006 5:58 PM howard hill wrote:
        Charles
        Please call me at 918 787 2577 or send me an emailat my address.
        Howard Hill
        USS Constant
        Reply to this
    • 12/5/2006 8:52 PM R D West wrote:
      I was a 1/c midshipman on Constant June-July-Aug of 1970. Although I was commissioned in the MARINES, I sure had a
      great summer in Long Beach on the Constant before she went to Viet Nam. Many thanks to the Chief of the Boat who kept me on a even keel.
      Reply to this
    • 12/12/2006 11:16 AM Eric Anderson wrote:
      I served as XO on Constant '88-'89 with a four month detachment to XO the Esteem (MSO 438)during the Iran-Iraq war. Ted Kaye was CO at the time. I'd like to be included in your roster. LCDR Eric Anderson, USN-Ret, 1846 Kinsmere Dr., Trinity, FL 34655.
      Reply to this
    • 1/11/2007 1:09 PM Charles T. Eaton wrote:
      To all USS Constant shipmates:

      We are actively working on the 8th. annual reunion for this Oct. 5, 6 & 7, 2007 to be held in Albany, GA. Please contact me at 513-404-9635(cell), 928-684-4923(landline) or cceatonky@aol.com or eatonrm3@hotmail.com for details. I would love to hear from you. Your shipmate, Charlie (Chuck) Eaton, Ex-RM3, MSO427 Reunion coordinator.
      Reply to this
    • 2/16/2007 3:33 PM Kevin Phillips wrote:
      I served aboard her from 1977 to 1981 We had some great memories. I can't believe her demise and was so hurt to see her destruction. I did see where some of her sisters were sold to other countries and are still in commission. It was cool to perform our mission and other exercises at sea. My chief was RMC Long and I cant tell you how much he tried to keep me out of trouble. She had a strong hull but bounced like a cork in heavy seas. I would give anything to relive those days again. I met some really great men and was proud to serve aboard her with them. Thanks for this guest book and all the websites. Kevin Phillips RM3/SN
      Reply to this
      1. 2/17/2007 5:24 PM Charles T Eaton Ex-RM3 wrote:
        Kevin: Please contact me and I will add you to our crew's roster of former shipmates. Would love to have you with us again. Charles T. Eaton,RM3,AKC/RET 1963/65, 513-404-9635, cceatonky@aol.com
        Reply to this
      2. 9/17/2009 11:19 PM RM3 Steve Weingart wrote:
        I remember Long, I was always short when on board 10/76-4/77 Now live in Branson Mo and discovered there was a reunion here a few years back. Just wondering if it will ever be here again?
        Reply to this
        1. 7/3/2010 7:13 PM howard hill wrote:
          Hello
          you asked if the USS Constant reunion would ever be held in Branson, again. Well this year it will be there. The first weekend in October as usual. Contact me at 918-791-1654 and I'll give you all the info. Howard Hill, Host and Reunion Coordinator .
          Reply to this
    • 2/26/2007 7:57 PM Craig Buchoz wrote:
      I'm trying to surprise my husband & find a shipmate of his: Joe Gunley
      I'm not sure where he's originally from or even if the name is spelled correctly. They served on the USS Constant 1972-1973.
      This site is great for all who had a connection to the USS Constant!
      Thanks for sharing.
      Tammy Buchoz
      My husband is a Veteran & was a Radioman on the USS Whitfield County & USS Constant.
      Craig Buchoz West Branch, MI 989-345-5792
      Reply to this
    • 3/7/2007 10:46 PM Jim Giacomo wrote:
      In the list of ships participating in Operation Market Time, I noticed that USS FIRM (MSO-444) was not listed. I served in her during those Ops in 1969.
      PN3 James C. Giacomo
      Reply to this
    • 3/18/2007 4:56 PM PAT ROIG wrote:
      PAT ROIG IC3
      LATE 1960 TO MAY 1964
      203-743-7939
      DANBURY, CT.
      Reply to this
    • 8/5/2007 4:25 PM W W Mike Warren wrote:
      Members of the minesweeping community; The Lucid MSO-458 Foundation was formed by a group of minesweeper crewmen who served aboard US Navy MSO's. MSO's are a class of wooden hull oceangoing minesweepers that are now decommissioned and fading from public memory. The group has obtained the USS Lucid MSO-458 and has her docked at Bradford Island, California. Work has begun! The organization is restoring her and a public museum is established. The MSO is a little known and poorly documented, extremely interesting facet of Naval history. The USS Lucid Museum is dedicated to telling the story of the minesweeping men and their wooden ships, the last all wooden US Naval ships, to navigate the oceans. We will be telling the stories of Mine Recovery and UDT teams, Floating Pigs, Hammer Boxes, Magtails, Aluminum Engines and Towed Sonar. The little known stories of Contact, Magnetic and Acoustic minesweeping as well as the mystery of Magnetic Countermeasures will be told through the displays, narratives and museum media. Typhoons, tiny ships and ice-clad superstructures are only a small part of the "Wooden Ships and Iron Men" story. From sweeping the Mekong Delta in Viet Nam, observing the final Nuclear blasts on Johnston Island to sweeping the Persian Gulf, "Where the Fleet Goes, We've Been" will be clearly illustrated. Since there is no other Naval Museum that even attempts to tell the story of the MSO the USS Lucid is an important and living detail of US Naval History. First, Lucid must undergo a restoration. Previous civilian owners for commercial use have modified her. She needs hull repairs and painting and re-outfitting to be brought back to her former Naval dignity and glory. The Lucid MSO-458 Foundation has a workforce of planners, engineers and volunteer manpower who are vested and committed to this grand and worthy project. Bringing her to life is a large financial undertaking. We’re looking for tax-exempt gifts from the Military Industrial sector and individuals to help with this extremely valuable endeavor. Of course, all donors will be properly and prominently acknowledged aboard the vessel. Your donation will help preserve this vital part of Naval History. Please join us in telling the MSO story by sending a tax-exempt gift to Lucid MSO-458 Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit foundation through our website. http://www.usslucid.org
      Reply to this
    • 10/16/2007 8:43 AM Bob Poole wrote:
      I just attended my first reunion in Albany, GA and had a great time. It was fun getting reacquainted with many old shipmates after 40+ years and meeting many more who were aboard when I wasn’t. I am now looking forward to Nashville. Thanks to all who do so much and work so hard to make these reunions possible.
      Reply to this
    • 10/18/2007 7:40 PM howard hill wrote:
      AHOY SHIPMATES!!! We just completed reunion number 8 and it was a roaring success. We had a total of 85 mates and wives. It was held in Albany, GA and our host was Jack Davis. Next year it will be in Nashville and our host will be Gary Suter, Engineering Officer. We look forward to seeing even more of you in Nashville. Call or send Gary and email and tell him you want to come.
      See the information at the top of the guest book page.
      Howard Hill, ENC, USN, Ret.
      Reply to this
    • 11/25/2007 10:05 PM s c pilgrim EX EN2 RET LDO ENG wrote:
      LOST CONTACT WITH FRED MILAM (RM3) LAST YEAR. SHIPMATE FROM 67-68. LAST TIME I HEARD FROM HIM HE WAS RUNNING HIS ALARM COMPANY IN SO CAL.
      Reply to this
    • 12/9/2007 12:19 AM John Pickerd wrote:
      I served onboard the Constant for one Good year and learned alot. Then I was trans to Tacoma,Wa to the Uss Enhance MSO427.
      I like MSO Duty!!!!!
      Wooden ships and iron men! Where the fleet goes we have been!!!!
      Reply to this
    • 12/20/2007 3:08 PM Charles T Eaton wrote:
      Greeting and Holiday Wishes for all my shipmates from the USS Constant. I hope to see you this coming October 3-5 in Music City, Nashville, TN. If you need any info on the reunion, give me a call at 513-404-9635. Plans are still in the preleminary phase and more information will be provided later via the ScuttleButt newsletter.

      Seasons Greetings!

      Charlie (Chuck) Eaton, Ex-RM3/AKC/RET
      MSO-427 Reunion Coordinator
      Reply to this
      1. 3/1/2010 9:46 PM James McCormick wrote:
        Hello Chuck, after all this time i found this site last night and want to add my name to the Constants crew list. James McCormick EM2 1963-1966 mine sweep electrician.
        Reply to this
    • 1/31/2008 8:30 PM John G Wilson wrote:
      Looking for Wayne and Melvin Schroeder and Kenneth LaForge. Served with them in engine rooms 1960,61 and 62 on MSO-427. Any info on their whereabouts will be appreciated. "Willy"
      Reply to this
      1. 7/10/2008 5:56 PM Paul McCarthy LT Ret wrote:
        John, I remember you and who you've mentioned a little. I was the Eng Off.59,60,61. Couple of guys I've stayed in contact with are Ray Carlson DC1 (Idaho) and Jim Aelick MM1 (Charlston SC). Also in my area(MA) is my first XO Paul Bledsoe.
        Might make the reunion this year!
        Paul (Mr Mac) McCarthy
        Reply to this
    • 2/3/2008 10:37 PM Jeff Reopelle wrote:
      I was stationed onboard the USS Constant from 1985-1987 and just wanted to comment that I enjoyed my 2 years as an Engineman 2nd class and was incharge of the main propulsion and rebuilt those Packards many times she was a head gasket blowing monster. Anyways I love seeing and hearing all the Tales of the MSO 427.

      Thanks
      Jeff Reopelle 85-87
      Reply to this
      1. 1/25/2010 9:22 PM Jon Anderson wrote:
        Constant was my first ship 85-88. So many great memories to mention. Rose Festivel, Esquamault and Ontario Canada, Alaska So much hard work, and so many good times.
        Jon Anderson 85-88
        Reply to this
    • 4/4/2008 9:49 PM Emily wrote:
      I have an Great Uncle Fred Milam who whas a pilot. He is in his late 80's I think. Is this the guy you are looking for?
      Reply to this
    • 6/10/2008 8:31 PM Howard Hill wrote:
      ahoy Shipmates
      I guess you could say I'm the old man of these reunions, since I hosted 2 1/2 and have attended each of the former eight. I just want to issue a blanket invite to eveyone who reads this blog page, regardless of whether you were a Constant shipmate or not. If you were a minesweep sailor you're welcome to attend this or any of our reunions. We have other ships represented. For instance, we have one Pivot member who comes every year. He said it's "just like old home week", even though at first he didn't know anyone. If you have any questions or need an answer to anything, give me a call at 918-787-2577. You can also semd me an email at hill.h@att.net, or call Gary Suter, this years host at 615-643-0085 or reach him via email at libgarsutr@cs.com. Let us hear from you and we look forward to seeing many more in Nashville in October.
      Reply to this
    • 7/15/2008 10:10 PM Greg Harrisonm QM2 wrote:
      I just found this website today. The Constant was my first ship. Arriving there after "A" school in Jan. 1988 and leaving her brow for the last time in Aug. '88 to leave for my first tour in the Persian Gulf aboard the USS Esteem. I recognize some names on the roster, Timothy Cline, Greg Perry.
      Anyway, finally left the NAV as a QM2 in '92.
      Always will remember the sweeps.
      Reply to this
    • 7/22/2008 12:24 AM BMC JAMES MEADE wrote:
      hey there shipmates, goodday from the sweep locker. today we rig a FA2A, SO break out all deck gear and appendages
      Reply to this
    • 7/22/2008 12:42 PM Steve wrote:
      I served aboard the Constant from 1986 to 1988 as an E3 Electrician's mate. Best memory is definitely the trip to the Portland Rose Festival one of those years and being the lee helmsman for port maneuvers.
      Reply to this
    • 8/20/2008 7:42 PM Paul Sharp wrote:
      I served on the Constant from 1972-1977. the last five as a reserve. The will always remember the expierence with pleasure.Iwas excited to find the websites.
      Reply to this
    • 11/13/2008 4:55 AM Jeff wrote:
      She was a great ship served on her 82 - 84
      Reply to this
    • 11/14/2008 6:47 PM Charlie Lawrence wrote:
      Served on the Constant 1966 - 1968. I was an HT3 Would like to hear from others during that period.
      Reply to this
      1. 12/7/2008 11:30 PM Chuck Eaton wrote:
        Charlie, please get in touch with me.

        Chuck Eaton, MSO-427
        Reply to this
    • 11/15/2008 3:38 PM Jim Sojka wrote:
      I realize that all you MSO's sailors think you have the corner market on minesweeping, but how about our little MSB's. I served on MSB 31 out of Long Beach (terminal Island from July '57 to Apr '58 than to the Adminral Staff COMINPAC until Aug '60. Does anyone remember the MSB's? PLS contact me.

      Jim Sojka
      Reply to this
      1. 4/8/2009 8:44 PM Frank Mulhall wrote:
        Hello Jim, I was in Mine Division 112 on the other side of the pontoon pier MSB-21,saw your note and thought I would give you a tumble. Frank BM3
        Reply to this
    • 12/6/2008 5:09 PM Chuck Eaton wrote:
      Attention all Minesweep Sailors!

      If you would like to join our group and be included in our "Shipmate's Roster", please let me know and I will be more than happy to add your information to our growing group of former USS Constant crew members. We now have over 200 names and addresses and we would love to have you with us. We have been having a reunion every year now for the past 9 years and now is the time for you to muster with us. You can reach me at 513-404-9635 or by Internet at cceatonky@aol.com. I mail out a newsletter called the "ScuttleButt" that concerns our reunion plans and other information of interest to former MSO sailors. Please get in touch with me and I would love to Welcome You Aboard once again.

      Thanks Shipmates,

      Charles T. Eaton, MSO-427, 63-65, Ex-RM3
      AKC/USNR/RET
      Reply to this
    • 12/14/2008 1:43 AM Donald L Hawbaker wrote:
      Greetings Fellow MSO/MCM Sailor,
      My Name is Donald L. Hawbaker, I am the Membership Director for the Navy MSO Association inc. You can Visit our home page here: http://www.nmsoa.org I am currently working my 2009 membership drive and I have located your contact information on various e-group guest books and registration areas to do with the MSO/MCM Community or am attaching this to sites dedicated to current and former Navy personell . I would like to extend an invitation to you to join the NMSOA and become a member of our Brotherhood. We build web sites in memory of our old ships, we hang out together on various e-groups to keep in touch and we even hold an all crews reunion every two years. The last of which was held October 2007 at Corpus Christi Texas with an awesome visit to the Ingleside Naval station and a private tour of an MCM as well as the Mine Counter Measures school. If you would like to be in the company of fellow EX-MSO Sailors or Active Duty and Former MCM Sailors, The NMSOA is the place for you... I look forward to seeing you aboard!

      Thanks for your time,

      Donald L. Hawbaker
      Reply to this
    • 2/1/2009 3:42 PM Raylee Erkson wrote:
      Web master,
      I need to make a correction to my email address on the USS Constant MSO-427 crew roster. My new email address is as follows:kornvali@msn.com. Could you please make the change for me.
      Thanks,
      Raylee Erkson, IC2
      Reply to this
    • 2/28/2009 6:44 PM Stan Hornsby wrote:
      I was a ships company member 09-1982 to 02-1984. I had a lot of fun on the USS Constant. Thanks for all the info on the Constant
      Reply to this
    • 4/16/2009 4:09 PM LeRoy Lambert wrote:
      I was on the Constant for a short time beging summer of 65 until just befor we went on the WPAC curise and then I was transfered to the Pluck

      LeRoy
      Reply to this
      1. 7/4/2009 9:12 AM Doble wrote:
        Were you an engineman and did you work in the after engine room?
        Tom
        Reply to this
    • 5/4/2009 1:11 AM FRANK MORTON wrote:
      Just wondering if anyone remembered my brother...Chief Dennis Morton...He was on The Constant back in the 80's...
      Reply to this
    • 5/31/2009 1:28 PM G D Cris Criscola wrote:
      Hi All
      I came off Lucid in 67 and put the Constant through Yard Period. I was BM1 and wasn't on board but a few months before going to Recruiting Duty in SC.
      Take care Cris Criscola BMCS Ret
      Reply to this
    • 7/4/2009 9:10 AM Tom Doble wrote:
      I was aboard the Constant from 1965 to 1967. I was transfered to the Acme when the Constant returned from WPAC in 1967 and went into dry dock. Still kicking, but a lot slower now. Retired since 2000 from Gov. and still living in Manassas,VA
      Tom Doble EN3
      Reply to this
    • 7/13/2009 11:59 PM Bob Vann wrote:
      I served on the USS Constant MSO427
      from 1957 to 1962 Mike division EN3 Was a crew member during the Taiwan Formosa blockade in 1958. Sorry to hear that both of my old ships are now out of commission. First served on the USS Oriskany CVA 34 then the Constant. My best to all of the shipmates.
      Reply to this
      1. 11/18/2009 1:44 PM Raylee Erkson IC2 wrote:
        Bob Van...Got a snapshot of YOU and other snipes at the Sasebo EM Club. Do you remember Brumfield, Hadden, Erkson? Reply to Raylee Erkson, IC2, at kornvali@msn.com.
        Reply to this
      2. 7/15/2010 10:04 PM Fitzgerald EN2 wrote:
        Hey Vann,
        I was thinking recently about some of the guys that I used to go on liberty with and your face showed up along with a mid 50's green Ford, good memories Vann. Drop me a line. I think that I have a slide of it taken up @ Norwalk.
        Later Fitz.
        Reply to this
        1. 8/12/2010 1:47 PM Erkson wrote:
          Erkson,IC2 kornvali@msn.com,..onthe Constant 1958,1959...reunion Oct 1-2-3.Oct 2010
          Reply to this
    • 8/14/2009 5:23 PM Michael Scruggs wrote:
      Grateful Vietnam vet Americal 1969-70
      Sgt. Michael Scruggs
      Reply to this
    • 8/21/2009 5:27 AM Yachtcharter Griechennland wrote:
      Wow, I never knew that Use this blog in lieu of a guest book. Just add a Comment.. That's pretty interesting...
      Reply to this
    • 9/22/2009 4:23 AM Yachtcharter Griechenland wrote:
      I was just thinking about Use this blog in lieu of a guest book. Just add a Comment. and you've really helped out. Thanks!
      Reply to this
    • 9/26/2009 11:10 AM Jacques Olis wrote:
      I was aboard the USS Excel MSO 439 from early 1958-mid 1960. You did a nice job on the web site, thanks. Wish the Excel hold as good a site, but reading yours brought back memories.

      Jacques QMSN
      Reply to this
    • 11/30/2009 7:41 PM Howard Hill wrote:
      Ahoy, Mates!
      Once more we need to remind you that we have an annual reunion and need to renew our sea bonds. In 2010 I will once again be hosting it at Branson, Missouri, Oct. 1, 2, 3. If you think you can make it, give me a call at either my landline 918-787-2577 or my cell 918-791-1654. Be glad to talk and tell you all about the reunions. We're losing members every year, so don't wait too long. Branson is a veteran's wonderful vacation spot. They honor us every day of the year, in every show. We'll be posting further information after the first of the year when I get all the logistics arranged. Look forward to seeing many new faces.
      Howard Hill, ENC-USN Ret.
      Reply to this
    • 12/17/2009 9:39 AM Russs Moffett wrote:
      Just wanted to update my crew roster information:
      Russell Moffett ETN2
      USS Constant 1970-1974
      213 Brady St. # 1
      Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
      russmo@charter.net

      Thanks for a great site.

      Russmo
      Reply to this
    • 12/21/2009 1:40 AM Doug Arendt wrote:
      "Request permission to come aboard, Sir!"

      I stumbled aboard the Constant in San Diego in early 1986 as a Fireman Apprentice, after undergoing rigorous firefighting training at Treasure Island up north. I actually turned down an "A" School offer for this duty; I had no idea what I was getting into. I had heard that 'sweep duty was kick-back; how wrong my sources were! I started out as a hole snipe in the FER with EN2 Roadarmel, then worked in Auxiliaries under EN2 Armstrong and EN2 D'Agostino. We were in and out of drydock, and it seemed like every other week there was some sort of inspection or refresher training. Damage Control training was almost continuous; after all, it was a wooden ship full of fuel and electrical wiring! Things were so stressful for a while that we actually had a few sailors leave the ship by claiming insanity!

      My Sea and Anchor Detail station, by some twist of fate, happened to be Level O-4 Lookout instead of the hole. In that position I made friends with the Sonar Chief, Mike Schoep, and his Sonarman, Craig Haverstick. They seemed to realize I had some potential and, after some months of political wrangling, I made a transformation from FN to STGSN!

      Life took on a different tack then, and we went on some neat cruises and sonar mine hunts. We sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge for its 50th and went to the Portland Rose Festival as well as Victoria & Vancouver, Can., and Port Angeles, WA. We even had an unscheduled stop at Catalina Island when all four Packards broke down simultaneously!

      Then came the deployments to the Gulf to assist in clearing Iranian mines for the Kuwaiti oil tankers. Aboard the USS ESTEEM MSO-438, we hunted the field where the Samuel B. Roberts got hit, and narrowly missed getting blasted ourselves! Thank goodness for the bow mine watches that day. We made many port calls to friendly countries in the Gulf, giving us a great feel for the culture of the Middle East.

      Although duty was often difficult, I am proud to be able to say that I was a 'Sweep Sailor. It was a unique duty, and I had the opportunity to work on equipment that many only see on TV, including side-scanning sonar and ROVs. Since I was a hole snipe who migrated to CIC, I had a camaraderie with sailors on both ends of the ship. There was a lot of goofing around when things weren't serious; a game called "chin music" was commonly played. Great times!

      One thing I have not been able to find anywhere is the verse on the plaque that was hung in the passageway between CIC and the lower bridge, whose last stanza reads something like,

      "...And when the big ships go
      To battle through the gloom,
      Our hearts beat high to know
      We cleared their path of doom."

      It's sad that nearly all the sweeps have been scrapped, but it's great news to hear that the Lucid is on her way to being a museum ship.

      I hope to make it to one of the reunions someday.

      Doug Arendt, STG2, 1985-1989
      deserttripper@dslextreme.com
      Still in good old Southern Cal.!
      Reply to this
    • 12/31/2009 12:01 AM Oran P Hill OP wrote:
      I was on the Constant from 65 to 67 during the Vietnam era. I was hoping to hear from shipmates that remember me. Also, having trouble with VA trying to prove my PTSD. Anyone have any suggestions?
      Reply to this
      1. 1/19/2010 12:23 PM Tom Doble 65-67 wrote:
        Hey Oran,
        I was aboard the constant from I think it was May of 65 through our return from WPAC in 67. What department were you in?
        First don't give up. Second stay on them. I asked for every document pertaining to my condition. I guess they thought I was going to get a lawyer. Things changed, they were actually nice to me. I got the additional compensation and reclassified. It is a thought. You won't get anything unless you push them. I asked for nothing I wasn't entitled too.
        Good luck
        Reply to this
    • 2/1/2010 12:39 AM Donn T Gurske wrote:
      Served on the USS Constant 1969 to 1970. RM3 with fond memories of the Chief of the Boat, Ramano, and Captain Bloomberg. Best pal was gunner's mate, Jim Denovich. Funny all the things we forget, but not our time aboard ship and the guys we called buddies.
      Reply to this
    • 2/21/2010 10:38 PM Charles T Eaton wrote:
      TO ALL HANDS MSO-427;

      I JUST CHECKED OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR OLD SHIP ONLY HAS 4 CREW MEMBERS LISTED. I THINK IT WOULD BE A GREAT PLACE FOR US OLD SWEEP SALTS TO KEEP IN TOUCH AND SHARE SOME PHOTOS.

      SEE YOU THERE.

      CHARLIE (CHUCK) EATON,
      EX-RM3/MSO427/63-65
      Reply to this
    • 3/15/2010 10:59 AM Doug Elliot wrote:
      I served as a TAR PN in the eighties under Ted Kay and Eric Anderson and reneged on a Page 13 agreement to re-enlist and left at the end of my enlistment for civilian life. After a total of 9+ years in it was the best career move I could make though do wonder what happened to everyone. Well, not everyone...being CONSTANTLY underway made life tough for many.
      Reply to this
    • 5/19/2010 10:47 AM Shawn Munson wrote:
      Looking back in time for any shipmates on the MSO 427 during 1977 to 1980; home port Long Beach, Ca. Looking for Chief Boatswain Denny, Captain Peters or anyone of my shipmates. Great pictures of mine sweeps particulary the one of me!
      Reply to this
    • 7/4/2010 6:49 PM David Schleinz DC2 wrote:
      I served aboard the Constant in 66-67. I started as a bosansmate but transferred to engineering and became a damage control man. It was great duty and am glad I was on the last of the wooden ships. I was 19 when we sailed and my son was born while I was overseas. God bless all my shipmates and all who served on this old tub. My e-mail is nibbles4649@yahoo.com. Home phone is 602-942-4252. My address is 16616 N 1ST Lane, #138, Phoenix, AZ 85023
      Reply to this
    • 8/12/2010 2:03 PM Erkson wrote:
      Bob Vann..I served on the Constant between 1958/1959. Would also like to reach out to other shipmates.Contact me at kornvali@msn.com. Raylee Erkson IC2
      Reply to this
    • 8/16/2010 8:51 AM STEVE WEINGART wrote:
      I was only on board for 6 months beginning in October of 1976 and lost touch with all the guys. I seem to remember working in the Radioshack with Lyod_ _ _ _ _ ? a 1st Class Radioman. I'm looking forward to meeting some new friends, seeing some old friends and hearing a few sea tails from back in the day. Living in Branson about 11 years now, I hear about reunions but I've never been to one so this will be a special occasion.
      Reply to this
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