LST-325, veterans, WWII, Landing ship crosses North Atlantic, WWII vets, ship, LST-325, WWII veterans, WWII ship, LST Associaction,

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Continuing Special Report - Dec. 2000-Jan. 2001 - She's Home - North Atlantic Victory!

The Proud Voyage of LST- 325 - The Greatest Generation Made It! Against All Odds!

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The Proud 4,250 Mile Voyage of LST- 325

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BREAKING NEWS: Tell It To The U.S. Marines! - A Symbol of Our Day of Infamy - Sept. 11

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED !!!

Ship Dressed - Rail Manned - The Voyage Continues

D-Day Plus 56 Years

Senior Vets Take WWII Fighting Lady Home

Arrived Mobile10:30 AM Jan.10 2001 -- Now The Work Begins

"Sun was rising but moon still visible. Men were silhoutted against sky.

Ship was flying Old Glory" -- First Observer of LST-325 U.S. Arrival-- Ed C. LST-391
 

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 The Proud Voyage of USS LST- 325

They Sailed The Winter North Atlantic! -

America's Greatest Generation Made It - Again !

58 Year Old Vessel - Crew Slightly More Used

Custodians of American Memories & Honor

North Atlantic Victory!

Mission Accoplished -Against All Odds - Now The Museum Work Begins

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GO GATORS ! God's Speed & Following Seas!

A Navy Prayer For LST-325

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The Proud Voyage of USS LST- 325

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THE HISTORY LST-325

 

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The Proud Voyage of USS LST- 325

 PREAMBLE: During World War II there were 1051 LST's (Landing Ship Tank) built to carry troops & supplies to American & Allied troops fighting in Europe and the Pacific theaters. When WW II ended most of the LST's were scrapped, modified, or given to Navies of other countries. Some remained in service and saw action in Korea, Viet Nam, and even the Cuban Blockade.

Now one proud 58 year old LST -- returns home to America from service with the Greek Navy - crewed by heroes with an average age of 72 years old. These men are giants! One giant has now fallen -- read below. (Capt. McD)

LST History & Background from The Cargo Letter

Here Is The Complete History of The Proud Voyage of LST-325 - Which Continues To This Day:

OUR ORIGINAL December 6 STORY: - Coast Guard Warns - DON'T DO THIS !

December 8 2000 UPDATE - Two Days To Launch Across The Atlantic! - Trip too dangerous?

December 9 2000 UPDATE - One Day To Launch Across The Atlantic! - LST-325 is "OK" - Press misquotes

December 11 2000 UPDATE - Repairs Delay Getting Underway.

December 12 2000 UPDATE - Underway!

December 13 2000 UPDATE - All Well At 9 Knots - Interview With Capt. Bob Jornlin - Current Navigation

December 14 2000 UPDATE - All Is Well At 8 Knots

December 15 2000 UPDATE - All Still Well At 8 Knots - Fair Seas

December 16 2000 UPDATE - All Healthy

December 17 2000 UPDATE - Very Upbeat - One Generator Down, Engine Problems

December 18 2000 UPDATE - Catching The Westerly Trades

December 19 2000 UPDATE - Dirty Fuel Problem

December 20 2000 UPDATE - No.2 Gen. Repair Deferred

December 21 2000 UPDATE - All Is Quite Well

December 22 2000 UPDATE - All Is Still Quite Well

December 24 2000 UPDATE - Christmas Eve At Sea

December 25 2000 UPDATE - Christmas At Sea - Gyro-Compass Instability?

December 26 2000 UPDATE - Boxing Day At Sea - Half Way Home!

December 27 2000 UPDATE - On Course - On Schedule - Bravo Zulu!

December 28 2000 UPDATE - Steering on The Whiskey Compass Is OK

December 29 2000 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 14

December 30 2000 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 13

December 31 2000 UPDATE - Satellite Down

January 1 2001 UPDATE - Communications Bad - Situation Good

January 2 2001 UPDATE - The Cargo Letter Estimates Arrival Delay (Unofficial)

January 3 2001 UPDATE - Confirmation of Jan 12 Arrival?

January 4 2001 UPDATE - Arrived & Departed Nassau! Jan. 10 Arrival After All?

January 5 2001 UPDATE - 900 Miles To Go! Sightings & Visits! - Arrival 1000 Hrs. 10 Jan.

January 6 2001 UPDATE - Rounding The Tip of Florida!

January 7 2001 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 3

January 8 2001 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 2 - Steaming Up The Channel Soon!

January 9 2001 UPDATE -Home Tomorrow- Carrying Our Hearts!

January 10 2001 UPDATE -Welcome Home 325 Gallant Men of 325 BRAVO ZULU !!!!

January 11 2001 UPDATE - The "Voyage" Continues --BRAVO ZULU !!!!

Post Arrival UPDATES- WELCOME HOME SITES, PHOTOS & NEWS--BRAVO ZULU !!!!

February 22 2001 UPDATE - We Mourn CMDR. Jack Carter - An American Hero Passes - UPDATES CONTINUE

February 23 2001 UPDATE - Message From Capt. Robert Jornlin - the state of LST - 325 

March 2 2001 UPDATE - The Blue Crew Takes Command of LST-325

March 5 2001 UPDATE - "high drama behind the sentimental journey of 29, white-haired sailors"

March 6 2001 UPDATE - State of Wisconsin Honors Lt. Donlad Molzahn

March 18 2001 UPDATE - First Day Memorial Postal Cover

March 21 2001 UPDATE - Our Crewmember Albert J. White Honored By New Mexico

March 23 2001 UPDATE - LST-325 Store is Open For Business. Support The Restoration Effort !

April 2 2001 UPDATE - Progress On LST Memorial Ship Steps Ahead - Mike Smith Photos! - Surgery For Pop

April 13 2001 UPDATE - Crew To Receive "Patriot of The Year Award" - in brave & historic company !

Also Details of a U.S. "Fantasy Apology" & 1st Hand Accounts

April 16 2001 UPDATE - Dry Docking of 325 Set Back -- Our Big Sister Opens As Museum

April 24 2001 UPDATE - Capt. Jornlin Reviews Naval Recruits In Salute To M/V LST Memorial Ship

May 2 2001 UPDATE - No Real Update Today - Just Go Direct To Pearl Harbor -We'll say more later - (Capt. McD)

A SPECIAL NOTE

Let's not forget this ship is 58 years old and sometimes the parts break or the laptop won't work. The other night the XO was fixing the Gyro and it took most of the day. The Captain took a extra couple hours of the XO watch so he could get some sleep. Jack came running up to the bridge and apolized to the Capt for being late for his deck watch and Capt. Bob Jornlin said don't worry about it I told the guys to let you sleep. That the type of guys we have on that ship bringing it home. The U.S. Navy has placed a beacon on the vessel and are in contact everyday telling them if they are going into bad weather. These men are doing a hell of a job. Standing watches 4 on 8 off and helping in any way they can to get this beautiful LST-325 home so you people can see her. Please come to Mobile and express your thoughts to the guys. They have worked their butts off to bring her home. How many of you would have gone through what they have? The date is Jan. 10, 2001 in Mobile Al. at the State Docks. Also please remember they need donations to continue this project after they get back here. No Government money has been spent so far so lets back the boys and help it to continue on.
USS LST Ship Memorial Inc., 64 Ponderosa Dr. Oregon, Oh. 43616-2221.
Linda Gunjak, United States LST Association.

All donations are tax deductable. A US$1.00 or more contribution may make the difference in preserving this important & living part of American History. Let's do our duty -- honor the sacrifices of these great men. Contribute Now -- then visit the result in a fully restored LST-325 later ! (Capt. McD)

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OUR ORIGINAL December 6 STORY: - U.S. Coast Guard Warns - Don't Do It!

Watch The ABC News Story- Click on "VIDEO."

From the Associated Press - Dec. 6 2000 - Fearing for their safety, the U.S. Coast Guard is urging a group of World War II veterans to scrap plans to sail the 358 ft., 58-year-old U.S. Navy ship LST-325 (Landing Ship Tank) across the Atlantic Ocean from Europe to Alabama to become a floating museum.

The venture's leader rejected the advice & said the crew plans to have the ship under way by Dec. 11.

The vessel, a tank landing ship given to the Greek navy in 1963, has inadequate lifesaving equipment, and its main propulsion & steering systems are in questionable condition, the Coast Guard's Atlantic area commander, Vice Adm. John E. Shkor, wrote in a letter to Robert Jornlin, the ship's Captain. Shkor also questioned the crew's capacity to respond to emergencies during the 4,600-mile journey.

"Noting these conditions & the unfavorable weather in the Atlantic Ocean at this time of year, I must question the prudence of attempting this voyage and strongly recommend against it," Adm. Shkor wrote.

Milan Gunjak, a tank landing ship crewman who is President of the United States LST Association for former tank landing ship crewmen, said in an interview that he spoke by telephone Wednesday with Jornlin and that the group was determined to set sail by Monday, Dec. 11, from Gibraltar, regardless of the Coast Guard warning.

"It's full speed ahead,'' Gunjak said from his home in Oregon, Ohio. "To hell with the Coast Guard." (misquote by Associated Press - see 9 Dec. 2000 message to The Cargo Letter.)

CLICK HERE
Capt. Jornlin, 61, of Earlville, Ill., served during the Korean War aboard a Landing Ship Tank, or "LST." The other 30 members of the crew also served aboard such vessels.

The ship is currently undergoing engine repairs at Gibraltar & could be ready to set sail as early as Dec. 9, Gunjak said. The trip, which might include a stop in the Canary Islands, is likely to take about 4 weeks, he said.

Last week a Coast Guard marine safety officer questioned the adequacy of the vessel's lifesaving equipment & also found it lacked an emergency electricity generator. In his letter, described in a Coast Guard news release Dec. 6, Adm. Shkor said that if the LST-325 were a commercial vessel he could order safety repairs. But since it is not, he could only recommend that the ship be towed back or that it be repaired before sailing.

The crew is keeping a log of its return voyage and have posted it on the Internet. One entry from Sept. says that while the ship was still in Greece, the idea of towing it back to the U.S. had come up. "But that is the last thing we will consider," the crew wrote.

The project of restoring LST-325 and returning it to the United States to serve as floating museum in Mobile, Ala., has been several years in the making. It has been supported by Nicholas Burns, U.S. ambassador in Athens, Greece, as well as commercial sponsors such as BP Petroleum, which donated 52,000 gallons of fuel.

"This has never been done before, and probably will never be done again," Linda Gunjak said in an interview.

History of LST-325

LST-21

D-Day 4 June 1942

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UPDATE - Dec. 8 2000 - U.S. Veterans Determined To Sail Ship - The Dream Continues

GIBRALTAR -- Long after its lightning invasion on the beaches of Normandy, the U.S. attack transport ship LST-325 has been swabbed clean, & the World War II veterans remain determined to sail her home.

"We're going to dip into our pockets to pay for some diesel fuel &, hopefully, we'll leave Dec. 11," said Norval Jones, the 74-year-old medic from Auburn Hills, Mich., who is in charge of the health of the 29 sailors - whose average age is 72. Despite a stern warning from the Coast Guard that the trip is too dangerous, the veterans plan to steer the hulking 328-foot tank transport across the Atlantic in a month long voyage to set up a floating museum in Mobile, Ala. The LST Association has fought since the 1980s to repatriate it. So far, the veterans have sailed the vessel from Greece to Gibraltar in a 13-day voyage, and the Coast Guard is exhorting them not to go any farther. The ship lacks adequate safety equipment, its steering is questionable and the Atlantic is cold and stormy in December, Vice Adm. John E. Shkor, commander of the Coast Guard's Atlantic Area Command, warned the crew in a letter last week. He said the ship should be towed.

Health is another problem for a crew. One man suffered heart problems last month and died on his way home.

"I'm a bit apprehensive," said the medic, Jones, who served in the Pacific in WWII. "If there's an emergency on the open seas, I'm the only answer."

"My family thinks I'm crazy," said Jim McCandrey, 70, a father of 5 from Sebastian, Fla., who served as a radar operator on an LST during the Korean War. "But we're going to make it. No two ways about that."

Mike Gunjak, spokesman for the crew & president of the United States LST Association, said: "I can understand this admiral's concern, but the man knows nothing about an LST. He doesn't understand in how good a shape, the ship is in."

Gunjak said towing the ship would cost an estimated US$600,000 that the association doesn't have. Each man contributed US$2,000 to cover meals and expenses. British Petroleum Co. donated more than 50,000 gallons of fuel. Ship Capt. Bob Jornlin says the ship passed safety inspections after numerous minor repairs and a scrubbing that brought it back to life for the aging crew.

"I am sure there is no other ship with an average (crew) age of 72," he said. "These guys can do what 30- & 40-year-olds can do on a ship but even safer. We haven't had any fires on board, no incidents, nothing." "The weather has dealt us another bad hand," he wrote in the ship's log while passing Sicily late last month. "Life,'' he wrote then, "is hanging on to something, anything, with the ship rocking & a fierce wind chilling your bones. This is when you know that you're alive and can take anything that's thrown at you." BRAVO ZULU!

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Plane Launches From WWII LST

DECEMBER 9 UPDATE - "The Engines & Life Saving Equipment Are In Compliance."

Exclusive To The Cargo Letter:

"I have read your story of the return of the LST-325. It was very informative. One thing I would like to clear up. My statement on the Coast Guard has not been quoted correctly (by the Associated Press). We need the Coast Guard and it is a very important part of our safety around the world. The only thing that I was upset about was the fact the press release was issued and the Vice Adm. (John E. Shkor) had not been informed as to the progress of the repairs. As of this date all items have been upgraded or repaired. The engines and life saving equipment are in compliance. We hope everything will go well for the crew. I'm sure they would not leave if they thought their lives were in danger. Thanks for your coverage of the return of the LST-325 back to the States."
Mike Gunjak, President, United States LST Association.
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December 11 UPDATE - Repairs Delay Getting Underway.

Report To The Cargo Letter:

"We spoke to the Captain last night and they found another piston that needed to be replaced. They are waiting to get fuel because of a holiday that is holding up the departure. The Captain will call tomorrow."
Linda Gunjak, United States LST Association.

ABC News story of Dec. 11 2000.

History of LST-325

U.S. Army loading landing craft with food supplies at an English port in preparation for France invasion. Medium tanks unloading with LCT-153 & our own LST 325 in backround (pre D-Day photo of our LST-325) 56 years ago
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December 12 UPDATE: Underway At Last!

AM: It is reported from crew sources to The Cargo letter that LST-325 will be bunkering this morning and leaving in the afternoon.

PM: Message from the vessel - "LST 325 departed Gibraltar at 1255 EST, 12 December enroute Mobile."

Weather: Currently favorable

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December 13 UPDATE: All Is Well At 9 Knots

Gibraltar-based U.S. Navy Cmdr. Chris Melhuish said he had had a brief satellite phone conversation with 325 Capt. Bob Jornlin who told him everything was OK. "They said the weather is perfect, (the sea was) flat as a pancake and that the men are confident," Melhuish said.

The 58-year-old LST-325 was moving at 9 mph - a "good speed" Melhuish said. He was among about 20 people who waved farewell to the 29 veterans - average age 72 - as they left this Mediterranean port off the tip of Spain on Dec. 12.

On Dec. 13 evening 325 was heading toward Spain's Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa. Attempts to contact the men on the ship were unsuccessful. The initial departure went ahead despite warnings from the U.S. Coast Guard that the estimated monthlong, 4,350-mile trip was too dangerous. Vice Adm. John E. Shkor, commander of the Coast Guard's Atlantic Area Command, warned the crew in a letter recently that the vessel lacked adequate lifesaving equipment, its steering was questionable and that the Atlantic is cold and stormy in December.

National Public Radio Interview With 325 Capt. Bob Jornlin - requires Real Audio

Weather & Navigation: At 8 knots, LST-325 is SW of Tangier, Morocco as of 0700 EST (+/-) steering SW for parrallel 34 degrees (Rabat,Morocco 34 deg.02'N, 06 deg.51'w. Marime weather reported temperature of 68 F high, sunny, humidity 65%, wind NNW 10 MPH, small waves, becoming longer. Forecast same for tomorrow. (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)

Radio Contact: There was a meeting on 14.300 MHZ 12:00 noon to 10:00pm EST. (Internet Sparks: Jack Rose KB0YYG LST-1165)

Our Short Wave Radio Shack - Internet Tuner - Visit LST-325
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December 14 UPDATE: All Is Well At 8 Knots

Weather & Navigation Latest Report: At 4:00 PM EST Dec. 13 (2000 Zulu Dec.1300) LST-325 reported position 35.07'N, 009.23'W, Course 258T, making turns for 8 Knots, calm seas. Distance covered from Gibraltar - 130 NM/148 SM, Speed made good 5.5 Knots. Sunset 1809Z or 12:09 PM EST. Full moon moving to Last Quarter 12/18. Land Lubber's direction to the ship - look to the sea N-NW 160 miles from Radat, Morocco or 10 to 11 o'clock. Per a Merchant Ship (1200Z121400 FM:DQVN) reporting at 34.7N, 20.9W approx. 600 NM somewhat in their path (LOP) the weather conditions were - temperature UNK, wind 7.7 knots, wind direction 300 degrees, wave height 3 to 4 ft. with wave periods of 6 seconds. (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)
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December 15 UPDATE: All Still Well At 8 Knots

Weather & Navigation Latest Report: As of 11:45 AM EST (1645 Zulu Dec. 15 2000). LST-325 position 33.24'N, 15.29'W, making turns 8 knots, distance traveled 526 NM/605 SM, speed made good 7.7 knots/8.9 MPH, sunset 1:03 PM EST/1803Z, 12/11 full moon, moonlight unknown, partly cloudy/cumulonimbus clouds, visibility >7 miles, light rain/showers, wind direction 030T at 17 MPH (Wind Force 5 - fresh breeze, moderate waves/long form with some spray), & temperature 62 F. Merchant ship approx. 240 miles west at 1:00 AM EST reported 12.9 knot winds, sea condition 2 ft with wave periods of 5 seconds. Land Lubber's view - locate Fuchel/Madeira Island, Portugal (west from Casablanca) - from Madeira Island look N-NW (2 o'clock) approx. 50 miles to sea - Wave hello!! Madeira Island weather is 68 F with showers. (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)

"While my meterological experience isn't that great (private pilot), my conclusion is that LST-325 probably couldn't be sailing at a better time. I'm going to hazard a guess of pretty good weather for them for the next 7-10 days with ..... you guessed it .... following winds & seas! "

Jim Anderson, WebSkipper, The LST 1110 Home Port

Radio Contact: Reported on the maritime service net that WW2LST/MM will be operating on 3865, 7230,14265, 21325, & 28,600. As far as is known, no one in the states has had any contact yet. (Internet Sparks: Jack Rose KB0YYG LST-1165)

Our Short Wave Radio Shack - Internet Tuner - Visit LST-325
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December 16 UPDATE - All Healthy

Status Report: From LST-325

1. Position N32 deg. 34 min., W019 deg 00 min.

2. Ship; All systems operational.

3. 51,500 gal fuel.

4. Planned Track 260 deg from point N33-00, W018-00, Steering 265 deg, Sea state 4, Wind force 4, Swell direction 030, wind dir. 040. partly cloudy, occasional moderate roll. If present weather holds, will probably go rhomb line to Great Abaco . [NOTE: Rhumb line (straight line) - pronounced "rumb" the difference can be seen on a World Map that dislays the Lat/long. as curved or as straight lines.]

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Engineering Report: Some rough calculations on fuel. They're looking extremely good in this department. Barring any unforeseen "diversionary tacks," I'd guess they're going to arrive Mobile with better than 35,000 gal. of fuel, maybe as much as 39,000! Speed so far is also exceptionally good. Now, if you stop and look ..... from Souda to Athens, to Gibraltar, and on to Mobile, they've covered approximately ONE-THIRD of the geographical distance. With no foreseeable problems in the immediate future, they should burn up the next 2/3 in very good time. (Internet Engineering: Jim Anderson Skipper LST-1110 Home Port)

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December 17 UPDATE - Very Upbeat - One Generator Down, Engine Problems

Status Report: From LST-325 16:50:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N31 deg. 47 min., W022 deg 48 min.

2. Ship; No.2 Aux Generator inop. broken valve, also must replace head, piston,etc.

3. 50,000 gal fuel.

4. Planned Track 260 deg from point N33-00,W018-00, Steering 270 deg, Sea state 4, Wind force 4, Swell direction 010, wind dir. 240. 30% cumulous cloud cover, scattered, gentle swells, smooth sailing. If present weather holds, will probably go rhumb line to Great Abaco. [NOTE: Rhumb line (straight line) - pronounced "rumb" the difference can be seen on a World Map that dislays the Lat/long. as curved or as straight lines.]

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Phone Home: Crewman Bruce Voges placed a telephone call to his family today from on board. He had just finished standing watch & was getting ready to ralax. He said that they were approximately 1000 miles from Gibraltar at the present time. Seas are relatively smooth & they are making good time. Everything is going well, all are healthy, and spirits are high!!

Radio Contact: WW2SLT/MM on SW reciever. RXing on 14.190 mhz. The converstion sounds upbeat & much merry christmas being exchanged.

Our Short Wave Radio Shack - Internet Tuner - Visit LST-325

Generator Down: It is reported that #2 Aux Generators is down. They have 3 generators on board. One is sufficient for most needs (99% of the time). A 2nd generator is required only for unusually heavy energy-consumptive tasks, such as raising an anchor. On top of that, there is good reason to believe that they already have on board the parts they will need to get this generator fixed.

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December 18 UPDATE - Catching The Westerly Trades

Status Report: From LST-325,1200Z 18 Dec 2000

1. Position N30 deg. 13 min., W025 deg 40 min.

2. All ships systems operational. No.2 Gen. under repair.

3. 48,500 gal fuel.

4. Planned Track 270 deg from point N30,W026, Steering 270 deg, Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 4, Swell direction 330, wind dir. 330. 30% cumulous cloud cover, scattered, occasional heavy rolling. If present weather holds, will probably go rhomb line to Great Abaco. [NOTE: Rhumb line (straight line) - pronounced "rumb" the difference can be seen on a World Map that dislays the Lat/long. as curved or as straight lines.]

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Weather & Navigation Latest Report: 8:10 EST (1210N Dec. 18 2000/1310Z). BT. Time zone: +4 hours from EST. LST-325 position 30.11'N, 25.53'W, course 270T from 230, making turns for 8 knots, temperature 70 F, partly cloudy/cumulous (light rain w/periods of sunshine), Waves 10/12 ft., wind direction west, wind force 5 (fresh breeze, moderate waves taking longer form, whitecaps, some spray), traveled 1094 NM/1259 SM. Merchant ships - 4 ships 300 miles ahead report similar weather, and 3 ships 300 miles S-SW indicate same. Have 3 generators onboard, the auxiliary can be fixed with spare parts onboard/No problem. Land Lubber's view: "There's no land Captain! Were on the "high Sea." For location - see Jim Anderson's great chart. Our sailor's have achieved another "nautical" milestone...they have reached the 30th parallel (latitiude)...the "navigator's dream," the un/official latitude for catching the "westerly trade winds." This is called the "horse latitude, ride that great ship home." (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)

Current Position: CLICK HERE FOR GRAPHIC (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Radio Contact: Maritime net reports WW2LST is TXing between 14.210-14.175 from 2000 to 0400 utc Have had some TX on 14.190.

Our Short Wave Radio Shack - Internet Tuner - Visit LST-325

History of LST-325

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December 19 UPDATE - Dirty Fuel Problem

Date: Tue, 19 Dec 2000 17:46:00 -0000 (GMT)

Status Report: From LST-325 1200Z 19 Dec 2000

1. Position N29-20, W028-27.

2. All ships systems operational. No.2 Gen. under repair, also dirty fuel prob.

3. 47,000 gal fuel.

4. Steering various courses to SW to reduce ship roll, Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 3, Swell direction 000, wind dir. 000. 30% cumulous cloud cover, scattered, occasional heavy rolling. When sea state moderates, will probably go rhomb line to Great Abaco. [NOTE: Rhumb line (straight line) - pronounced "rumb" the difference can be seen on a World Map that dislays the Lat/long. as curved or as straight lines.]

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Radio Contact: Maritime net reports WW2LST is TXing between 14.210-14.175 from 2000 to 0400 utc Have had some TX on 14.190.

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December 20 UPDATE - No.2 Gen. Repair Deferred

Status Report: From LST-325 16:34:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N28-33, W031-30.

2. All ships systems operational. No.2 Gen. repair deferred.

3. 45,500 gal fuel.

4. Started great circle to Providence channel. Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 3, Swell direction 000, wind dir. 000. 100% cumulous cloud cover, occasional heavy rolling.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

U.S. Navy Times LST-325 Article - 18 Nov. 2000

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December 21 UPDATE - All Is Quite Well

Status Report: From LST-325 15:50:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N28-27, W034-34.

2. All ships systems operational. No.2 Gen. repair deferred.

3. 44,000 gal fuel.

4. Recent track 270 for stability, Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 4, Swell direction 330, wind dir. 300, mostly clear, distant cumulous, occasional heavy rolling.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

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Current Postion

December 22 UPDATE - All Is Still Quite Well

Status Report: From LST-325 14:06:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N28-52, W037-51.

2. All ships systems operational. No.2 Gen. repair deferred.

3. 42,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 284, steering 290, SOA 7kt, Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 4, Swell direction 330, wind dir. 330, scattered cumulous,35% cover, occasional heavy rolling.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Radio Contact: Yesterday 12-21-00 at approx.0030Z I worked a Ham station in Kuwait city, Kuwait at 14190 MHZ. I am in Henderson, NV. and am running 100 watts into a dipole in my attic running east to west. I received a 5X9 signal report and he was 20 over S-9 here. The station call in Kuwait is 9K2ZZ and his name is Bob. He continued to work stateside stations for another 2 hours after my contact with him. He is an American. The Cargolaw website [That's us!] said that LST-325 was heard on 14190, I never heard LST-325. However there are good propagation openings to the Middle East lately. The 20 meter band had a nice opening to the middle east yesterday. Jerry USS Southerland DDR-743 1955 to 1959 WB6DYB

Current Position: 2:10 PM EST.(1710Z122200).BT.LST-325 position 29.01'N,38.45'W, NE wind/direction 300T, temperature 70, 25 knots (fresh Breeze), traveled 1794 NM/2053 SM. All other weather conditions remain same as FYI-Lat/Long #6.BT. Merry Christmas. (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

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December 24 UPDATE - Christmas Eve At Sea

Status Report: From LST-325 15:48:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N29-06, W041-05.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen. inop, gyro-compass instability?

3. 41,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 271, steering 295 Mag., SOA 7kt, Sea state 4 to 6, Wind force 2, Swell direction 000, wind dir. 000, scattered cumulous,25% cover.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

>>> This Radio Email Message is provided courtesy of the WinLink 2000 Global Gateway. This is a slow radio link. Please be brief with your reply. For information & system use, visit "WinLink 2000 Spport Page".

History of LST-325

CHRISTMAS EVE AT SEA

By John Masefield

A wind is rustling 'south and soft,'

Cooing a quiet country tune,

The calm sea sighs, and far aloft

The sails are ghostly in the moon.

 

Unquiet ripples lisp and purr,

A block there pipes and chirps i' the sheave,

The wheel-ropes jar, the reef-points stir

Faintly - and it is Christmas Eve.

 

The hushed sea seems to hold her breath,

And o'er the giddy, swaying spars,

Silent and excellent as Death,

The dim blue skies are bright with stars.

 

Dear God - they shone in Palestine

Like this, and yon pale moon serene

Looked down among the lowing kine

On Mary and the Nazarene.

 

The angels called from deep to deep,

The burning heavens felt the thrill,

Startling the flocks of silly sheep

And lonely shepherds on the hill.

 

To-night beneath the dripping bows

Where flashing bubbles burst and throng,

The bow-wash murmurs and sighs and soughs

A message from the angel's song.

 

The moon goes nodding down the west,

The drowsy helmsman strikes the bell;

Rex Judaeorum natus est,

I charge you, brothers, sing Nowell,

Nowell,

Rex Judaeorum natus est.

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)
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December 25 UPDATE - Christmas At Sea

Christmas Report

Direct From LST 325, 25 Dec 2000

"We are approaching the halfway point of the Atlantic crossing and we have committed to be in Mobile for a 10 Jan arrival.

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the ship,
Not a faucet was leaking, not even a drip.

The sailors were all snug in sacks,

Resting from a day's work of breaking their backs.

The watch standers steered the ship through the night,

Alert for any warning, whistle or light.

When down in the tank deck there arose such a clatter,

The bos'n ran down to see what was the matter.

There stood Santa in red coveralls, covered with grease,

I thought the crews laughing never would cease.

The crew fell silent as Santa drew near,

Telling us that our Christmas was now here.

He told us, "You boys have had a might rough time,

But you all did your jobs, and everything turned out fine."

"My gift to you all, this holiday season,

Is the Joy of knowing that you have done a Job Well for a Very Good Reason."

"THE SHIP'S COMPANY OF THE LST 325, 2000 WISHES TO EXTEND OUR WARMEST SEASONS GREETINGS ALL OF OUR FAMILY MEMBERS, LOVED ONES, FRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS.

The year has been a difficult period for all of us and the continued support of those at home have always been a source of strength and support for us. The realization that we would not be together with our families for the holidays was truly painful. We hope that the joy of our forthcoming homecoming will in some way makeup for the disruption of the Christmas season."

Merry Christmas From The Crew of LST-325

>>> This Radio Email Message is provided courtesy of the WinLink 2000 Global Gateway. This is a slow radio link. Please be brief with your reply. For information & system use, visit "WinLink 2000 Spport Page".

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

The LST-325 Christmas Tree: While they were still in Crete, they had on board a small palm tree potted in a bucket (need I explain???). I'm wondering if this palm didn't do double-duty as their Christmas tree? One of the news articles said that their Christmas tree was two feet high, which would put that palm in the right ballpark! (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

History of LST-325

December 26 UPDATE - Boxing Day At Sea - Half Way Home!

Status Report: From LST-325 15:25:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N29-07, W050-37.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen. gyro-compass inop

3. 38,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 267, steering 255 mag., SOA 5 kt, Sea state 8 to 12, Wind force 6, Swell direction 240, wind dir. 240, solid overcast, visability 0.5nm, light to heavy rain.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Daily Weather Briefing (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Current Satellite Still Photo

Current Satellite Animation

Personal Contact: Just spoke with Ham radio station KM6DD who is in the same ham radio club with Jack Carter. He received an email this morning from the ship. There position at 1200UTC (7:00am) EST 29.00N 047.34W. fuel 38,000 gallons No change in equipment status Steering 271 degrees >> Jack Rose LST-1165

Happy Belated Birthday To Ed Strobel!

LST-325 In Print Today

Christmas Article From The Moblie Register

Seattle Times Article

Yahoo News

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December 27 UPDATE - On Course - On Schedule - Bravo Zulu!

Status Report: From LST-325: 15:21:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N28-38, W053-00.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen. & gyro-compass inop

3. 36,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 267, steering 300 mag., SOA 6 kt, Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 2, Swell direction 000, wind dir. 000, cloud cover 90%, mixed cumulous, sirris, no rain since last night.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Weather & Navigation Latest Report: 12:30 PM EST (1345Q1227001745Z). Crossed new time zone +1 hour from EST. BT. LST-325 position 28.38'N, 53.22'W, course 300T, steering 282M (magnetic), temperature 68, wind force 6 (22 to 27 mph, larger waves, numerous whitecaps), wind direction NNW, Stratocumulus (low sheetlike, puffy clouds), ship passed through cold front (early morning) moving to SSE, high pressure ahead/clear skies/consistent winds, as of 12/25 new moon, traveled 2564 NM/2939 SM, estimated 1300 NM/1498 SM to Nassau, Bahamas. Landlubber's View: Look east from Orlando, Florida. Merchant ship observations - three ships ahead at 0800Q reported same wind conditions/calmer sea. Our sailor's will be crossing the 60th meridian soon (Longitude), crossing into the "Western Atlantic" from the "Central Atlantic." (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)

Personal Contact: The following from Mrs. Jornlin (edited): "Hi! It's Wednesday AM & I heard from Bob on the ship this morning. He said it was a little rough yesterday, but calmer today. All the crew are fine but getting a little tired. Worked on the gyro & hoping it will work now. If not, can manage without it. Still heading toward Nassau on course. Bob said they have gone 4,250 miles since departure from Greece. Now N28 38min - W53 22min (11:00AM CST). They have apparently made the news in Australia & Japan, too. When I asked how fast they were going, quote "6 1/2 knots up the waves, & 7 knots down". Still has his sense of humor. I also asked if they had a Christmas tree. He said they had found one on the ship all decorated, so if fact did have a tree. They had a ham dinner for Christmas with all the trimmings and he thought a New Years dinner was being planned as well but did not know the menu. Still planning a short stop in Nassau for some lube oil and some repair parts to be brought aboard although they have already fixed most of the problems experienced thus far. Still expect arrival Nassau Jan. 3rd or 4th and arrival Mobile, Jan 10th. Just 2 more weeks for those of us that are counting!! Hope you had a great Christmas with your families (in spite of the circumstances) and I wish you all a happy New Year. Mine starts on the 10th!"

>>> All this sounds pretty good to me, especially the part about the gyro. I'm off to update my route map. (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Radio Contact: On radio at 14.222.5. Ship rolling hard. Cdr. Carter having to hold on to desk. (Tin Can Fred)

LST-325 In Print Today

Mobile Register Article

Stars & Stripes

U.S. Navy Times

History of LST-325

December 28 UPDATE - Steering on The Whiskey Compass Is OK

Status Report: From LST-325: 14:31:00 -0000 We are scheduled make quick in Nassau on 3 Jan to pickup up supplies, etc. Then it's onward to Mobile for the return to the return of the LST 325 to the U.S. on Jan 10, after over 35 years of absence. We know that the citizens of Mobile are waiting to welcome us with open arms. The big question is what kind of arms will the all too numerous bureaus & agencies of the federal government use to welcome us. We are determined to make sure that our good Captain leaves the ship with honor even if he is in hand cuffs and leg irons. If that is the case the entire crew will form as 28 side boys and one Bos'n. As the Captain leaves the ship the Bos'n will pipe and the 28 side boys will salute and sing that old favorite "For He's a Jolly Good Felon". It should be great on the national news.

1. Position N28-33, W056-06.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen. & gyro-compass inop

3. 35,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 266, steering 295 mag., SOA 7 kt, Sea state 8 to 10, Wind force 4, Swell direction 300, wind dir. 250, cloud cover 10%, cumulous.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Weather & Navigation Latest Report: 12:00PM EST. (1300Q1228001700Z). BT.LST-325 28.32'N,56.44'W, temperature mid 70's, wind force 4 (moderate breeze, small waves/becoming longer), sea 10 ft., wind direction 250/West, high pressure made for clear skies today, distant/scattered cumumlus clouds (puffy white type), traveled 2742 NM/3144 SM. The ship is 473 NM/545 SM from Bermuda. To Nassau - 1124 NM/1293 SM to go. Landlubber's view - from Bermuda look at 4 to 5 o'clock for 500 miles out to sea, parallel with Orlanda, Fl. The ship will be 330 NM due south of Bermuda on Saturday. Possible the crew will spot a "Larus Argentatus," they have been seen up to 400 miles out to sea. We know them as "Sea Gulls." (Internet Navigator- Bill LST-1167)

LST-325 In Print Today

Associated Press

From A Wife of The Crew: I have just come across your discussion page and I just want all of you who are posting to know that I really appreciate any news and information you have posted. This has been a real emotional roller coaster in all our lives and it soon will be over with and I couldn't be prouder of my husband and all the other men on that ship. And also to the LST National Association for all the help they have given. Looking forward to Jan 10th!! Thank you all for your support and donations. Dianne Hill

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December 29 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 12

Status Report: From LST-325: 14:02:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N28-36, W059-04.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen. gyro-compass inop

3. 33,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 266, steering 250 mag., SOA 5 kt, Sea state 8 to 10, Wind force 6-8, Swell direction 250, wind dir. 250, cloud cover 100% .

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Personal Contact: "Our Dad, Dominick Perruso, has been with the LST-325 since Labor Day. He will have one BIG family waiting for him on Jan 10. We all miss you, and are bursting with pride for what you all have been able to accomplish. Love from the PERRUSO FAMILY" >> Kathy (Perruso) Young

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

MAP POSITION

Daily Weather Briefing (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Current Satellite Still Photo

Current Satellite Animation

History of LST-325

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"Large Slow Target"

Bronze Sculpture Dedicated To The Men of The LST's in Washington DC. At the U.S. Navy Memorial

Thurs. Oct. 26, 2000. Designed by Mr. Leo C. Irrera & Appropriately Titled As Above

December 30 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 11

Status Report: From LST-325: 11:38:33 -0800

1. Position N28-14, W061-00.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen. gyro-compass inop

3. 32,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 262, steering 285 mag., SOA 7 kt, Sea state 4 to 6, Wind force 2, Swell direction 230, wind dir. 230, cloud cover 100% overcast,vsby 15nm.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Ship's Company Speaks: My name is Joe Milakovich; I reside with my wife Drucilla in Wauwatosa, WI. I am 74 years old. This once in a lifetime experience has been rewarding. The camaraderie amongst the crewmembers is outstanding. We enjoy some leisure hours sitting on the fantail; we call it the sundeck, and also enduring the rough seas during bad weather days. I'd like to thank my wife and family for the encouragement they gave me to participate in this voyage. I am looking forward to being reunited with them in Mobile.

LST Discussion Group - keeping up with 325

Bulletin: This Page May Not Be Operating. Go To Alternate -- LST-1110 Home Port Discussion Page

All are free to read the posted messages. However, to post a message on the forum, you will need to have a Yahoo ID and also to join the club (both are simple matters). With this posting, I certainly don't mean to "undercut" our normal channel ofcommunications -- I'm just trying to avoid a "white-out" in the meanwhile! (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

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December 31 UPDATE - Satellite Down

Status Report: From LST-325: 08:16:35 -0800 (This report came on 1 Jan. 2001)

1. Position N28-12, W063-30.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass, Inmarsat Mini-M, inop

3. 30,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 262, steering 290 mag., SOA 6.2 kt, Sea state 6 to 8, Wind force 4, Swell direction 230, wind dir. 230, cloud cover 100% overcast,some herring bone pattern to south, vsby 15nm.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

From The Wife of Capt. Jornlin Tonight: "The satellite is not working. Linda (Linda Gunjak of the United States LST Assn.) got an E-mail via ham radio I guess, telling us that. She tried to call someone but of course got nowhere today. Probably can't reach anyone until Tuesday to see what the is problem. They were 750 miles from Nassau going slower because of the weather but engines still plugging along. They are tired but OK. Hope they hit some favorable winds soon. Happy New Year. Lois"

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January 1 UPDATE - Communications Bad - Situation Good

Status Report: From LST-325: 14:47:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N27-51, W066-22.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass

3. 29,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 258, steering 280 mag., SOA 7 kt, Sea state 4 to 6, Wind force 2, Swell direction 330, wind dir. 330, cloud cover 20% scattered, vsby 20nm.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Ship's Company Speaks:

From: Bill "Rocky" Hill Somewhere In The Atlantic: I wish a Happy New Year to all my LST-465 Shipmates, Arizona LST Ass'n, Sunflower Resort Friends, My Family & my Kaiser Aluminum fellow employees in Spokane and especially my wonderful wife, Deanne. You too Mike and Linda Gunjak.

From Jim McCandrew: To my wife and our families & all our friends in Titusville, PA and Sebastion, FL. Wishing all a Happy New Year, I am still at sea bringing the LST-325 back to the good old USA.

From "Dad" Richard Meyer: To Roger & David Meyer of Lincoln, NE. Sorry I couldn't reach you Roger yesterday. Had gale winds & waves. Now trying to make Mobile by Jan 12. Roger take my medication to Liz, I am getting low. Medication on shelf by kitchen sink. I am feeling fine, ship running OK. Will get to Nassau on about 1/5/011. See you soon.

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January 2 UPDATE - The Cargo Letter Estimates Arrival Delay

Status Report: From LST-325: 13:38:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N27-16, W069-38.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass

3. 27,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 258, steering 275 mag., SOA 8 kt, Sea state 2 to 4, Wind force 3, Swell direction 330, wind dir. 330, cloud cover 80% scattered, vsby 20nm.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy. J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

When Will LST-325 Arrive?: Our current unofficial estimate extends the official version by two days -- to 12 Jan. 2001. Our expert consultant figures on them hitting Nassau early on 5 Jan., almost 2 days behind the anticipated schedule. He is also figuring 6 days sailing time from Nassau to Mobile. Bottom Line: Figure on 12 Jan. -- pending further orders.

To Keep official track, follow the Port of Mobile Arrival Notices:
Port of Mobile: Vessel Arrivals/Departures

From The Radio Shack: They have been active on 20 m and I was able to work them 2 days ago. Jack sounds great! He says they are tired but enthusiastic about the trip and looking forward to arriving in Mobile. Check into the Maritime Mobile Service Net on 14.300MHz for details and they may know when & where they will be on the band. The last 2 days they have been on 14.245MHz between 2200-2400 UTC approximately. Jack must have a stack of logs of guys he's worked! He is always patient and trys to give all a chance to work him. He says to keep trying if you haven't been successful yet. (Jim Zeigle - K9JZ)

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325 - Back On Line

LST-325 In Print Today

The Washington Post - Reviews Her Heroic Korea Service (see about half way down)
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January 3 UPDATE - Confirmation of Jan 12 Arrival?

Status Report: From LST-325: 18:02:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N26-30, W073-16.

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass

3. 26,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 256, steering 280 mag., SOA 8.5 kt, Sea state 2 to 4, Wind force 3, Swell direction 330, wind dir. 330, cloud cover 40% scattered, vsby 20nm.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy. 6. ETA Nassua, 1700Z, 4 Jan 2000, departure ASAP.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR (Ret.)XO, M/V LST Memorial

Ship's Company Speaks:

From Harold Slemmons: I would like to express my feelings on being able to make this trip by saying it has been an emotional experience to relive old times, meet different people of the world. Being physically able at age 74,to accomplish this is something I am very proud of. My family's support in helping me do this is very important to me. To me it is a once in a lifetime event. Harold Slemmons, Mayor of Lone Oak, Texas

From Bailey Wrinkle: From Tennessee on board as an electrician, crewmember of the LST 325 from Crete-Greece to Mobile, Alabama. I am extremely proud to be a member of this crew and to represent the great state of Tennessee and the town of McKenzie. I have acquired a good bunch of new friends with the crew and am totally amazied at what they can repair and put together when the chips are down with so little to work with. This was supposed to be a trip of 50 days. As of this week I will have some 130 days and some even longer, but Mobile is getting closer. My best to Bobby, Paul, Joel and all my friends. Without their help this would never have happened. Christine with broken foot, tell all our friends, Thanks for their interest and support. To Mark and Amy and the grandchildren - Matthew, Kyle, Abby and Luke, that Pop-Pop has lots to tell you. They said it could not have been done. No Way - To bring a WWII 60 year old Naval Vessel, LST 325 out of the graveyard - Bring it back to the US from Crete, Greece - No Way, it could be done. (But we did it). Best Wishes, Bailey M.

From Albert White : We are crusing in the Atlantic on our WW2 LST, heading west about 3 or 4 days from Nassau. We sill stop briefly for some supplies, then sail for Mobile, Ala. We plan to arrive about the 12th of Jan. At this time I want to wish everyone back home a very very happy new year. this will include my very wonderful and understanding wife, Gloria; all the kids - Nancy, Bonnie, Albert, Edwin, John, Wendy, Mat, Mark, and Jan plus all the grandkids and great grandkids. Check the TV news for any news of our trip. You will be hearing from me again about the 10th of Jan. May God bless our ship and our crew and may He bless and keep all you healthy and safe in the new year.

SPECIAL >>> On Line Chat To Be Held This Saturday: The entire amphib community is invited to participate in an online chat session on Sat., Jan 6 at 1900Z (that equates to: 11 am PST, noon MST, 1 pm CST and 2 pm EST). We should have a lot to talk about with LST-325 coming down the home stretch! In order to participate, you will need to have a Yahoo ID (if you don't yet have one, you can register for a Yahoo username for free), then go to:

On Line Address For LST-325 Chat << ClicK There
Then click on "Join the Club" in the upper right-hand corner; then click on "Chat" in the lefthand panel (you will need to have Javascript enabled). We'll be hoping to "see" you there! (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

NOTE: Our Calculation of Arrival Time Is Based On Reports Received. -- The Cargo Letter

History of LST-325

LST-325 Fund

Tonite's Special Feature: "The Whales of World War II"

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January 4 UPDATE - Arrived & Departed Nassau! Jan. 10 Arrival After All?

Status Report: From LST-325: 19:31:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N25-05, W077-20.5

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass

3. 24,500 gal fuel.

4. Moored starboard side to pier in Nassau

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

6. Departure ASAP. >>> Attn: Mobile, We're Alabama Bound !!!

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR (Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Ship's Company Speaks:

From Dominick R Perruso: From Palmer Township, PA. I have been aboard the LST-325 since July. I want to tell my wife Dottie that I love her and miss her, also Mingy, our little Jack Russell terrier also all my relatives. I want to say hello to all my friends in Palmer Township Wilson Boro West Easton & Easton, PA. I want to thank everyone that helped to make this voyage possible. I am proud and honored to be a member of this crew. (An extremely long & detailed list of ship's work done by Mr. Perruso was deleted to allow radio transmission of this message.) I am looking forward to arriving in Mobile, AL, that will be one great day for the whole crew. Happy New Year!

The Public Speaks: I just heard a report on MMSN 14.300 that LST-325 departed Nassau at 18:00 EST. If this info is correct then according to Chartview Planner (nautical planning software) that will put them in Mobile at 00:24 CST on 1-10 if they average 7 knots. At 7.5 knots its 15:54 CST on 1-9. At 8 knots its 8:28 CST on 1-9. Looks to me unless they slow down to around 6 knots an arrival on the 9th may be possible. Is every body getting a little bit excited? I sure am. norvelld@swbell.net I am an Ex-USN GM3 who served on th USS ADAMS (DDG-2) in 1963-4 and NavFac 104 Grand Turk Island 64-5. We received our supplies on a LST and I think they are one hell-of-a boat. I live in Mobile Alabama & so damn excited about seeing the LST-325 get here and I want to meet the real American heros who sailed her home. I sure hope we in Mobile can get her here as her longtime home. Y'all come see us. (Floyd Terrell)

History of LST-325

LST-325 Fund

LST-325 In Print Today

The Associated Press - at Nassau
Back To The LST-325 Index

January 5 UPDATE - 900 Miles To Go!

Status Report: From LST-325: No Report Today

From The Wife of Capt. Jornlin Tonight: "Hi to all! Bob called this evening & informed me all going well. Today the seas were calmer. They are headed to the Keys and should arrive there early AM Saturday & perhaps past the Keys by evening Sat. Then its on to the gulf and up to Mobile!! He sounded good & upbeat. Priscilla from Senator Hall's office called also last night and said the reception is to be held from 6:00pm - 8:00Pm on the 10th - hosted by BP and 200 people maximum invited to attend. Dress is business suit/dress. Bob said some of the guys want to wear their uniforms - I think they should wear whatever they want to after what they've been through!! The ship is expected to arrive about 10:00 am on the 10th with a ceremony at 11:00am (approx. 30 min. long) according to Ms. Thompson. We will be provided with transportation to the dock. Bob noted that people will probably be able to board the ship that afternoon or perhaps the next day. All the news media will be there according to all the phone calls I've gotten. This is so exciting that we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel!! I am leaving Sunday to drive to Mobile. Will arrive Monday afternoon hopefully if all goes well. So looking forward to meeting all of you. Feels like you are family already. Wishing you a safe trip to Mobile & the crew God's speed."

Sighting: Wanted to let everyone know that I'm a professional photographer in Miami, Fl and got a call yesterday from a client to flyover in a helicopter an old WWII ship off the coast of Fla. Didn't realize that it was the same ship and crew I saw featured on a network news show a couple of weeks ago. We caught up with her around Bimini and she was making headway beautifully and looking good in the bright sunshine and seas of 2 to 3 feet. Many of the crew came topside to watch us as we photographed her. We were on scene for about 15 minutes. Wish I could be there when she arrives in Mobile. (Bill Cooke-hawkfoto@bellsouth.net)

First Visit: My wife and I returned home a couple of hours ago from a visit to Nassau, Bahamas, where we had the honor to step aboard the 325 while it was in port to pick up lube oil and some other supplies. The ship looked great for its age and so did the crew members. They're all excited about being so close to home now. When I saw it coming close to the dock, my first comment was: "It's BEAUTIFUL," even if it was a bit rusty in spots. Quite a few people were at the dock in Nassau looking at the ship and it was great to explain to them the history of the ship and its incredible voyage from Greece. The U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas came to the pier and he, an assistant & several other embassy staff people climbed the Jacob's ladder to reach the main deck. The crew welcomed all visitors and at the same time were busy taking on the oil drums & foodstuffs which included fish, chicken, lettuce, a giant squash some other fresh vegetables and loaves of bread. Looks like they'll be eating well the next several days as they make their way to Mobile. The ship was in port only about 4 hours & was out of Nassau harbor at about 1730 hours. You cannot imagine the emotion I felt when I went on board & the memories it brought back to me. I remembered all the men on my ship, the LST 708, in the South Pacific. I knew many of the 325 crew members personally. I joined the group in 1995 but had to drop out last year because of vision problems. The camaraderie that was so evident today when I visited the 325 was such that I know I would be honored to serve with all of these men anytime. (Bob Madden, former 325 crew member)

Online Chat Scheduled for Tomorrow - Sat., 6 Jan.: The entire amphib community is invited to participate in an online chat session on Sat., Jan 6 at 1900Z (that equates to: 11 am PST, noon MST, 1 pm CST and 2 pm EST). We should have a lot to talk about with LST-325 coming down the home stretch! Come to The LST 1110 Home Port's Discussion Forum at:

Go To The Chat Page
>>> Then click on "Chat" in the lefthand panel (you will need to have Javascript enabled). You might like to do a dry run today just to get the feel of the chatroom, and familiarize yourself with its controls and features. We'll be hoping to "see" you there! Also, if you're going to Mobile, please email me -- I'd like to meet you there.

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325 - Back On Line

History of LST-325

LST-325 Fund

LST-325 In Print Today

The Associated Press

CNN - Nassau Landing

Miami Herald

Mobile Register

New York Daily News

News 24

Seattle Times

Back To The LST-325 Index

"The Resurrected 325"

A Poem by Leo E. Smith, LST-1046

January 6 UPDATE - Rounding The Tip of Florida!

Status Report: From LST-325: 1300EST (GMT)

1. Position N24-23, W81-35

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass inop.

3. 21,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 255, steering 255, SOA 7.8 kt, Sea State 1 to 2, wind force 3, swell direction 270, wind dir 270

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Ship's Company Speaks:

From Corbin: Best wishes to Darla, Ron & Georgia, Pam & Curly and all my good friends at the Clarion VFW Club and the American Legion fron Corbin Fowkes on the LST325 after 25 days at sea somewhere off the Florida Keys. Also to my wife Eileen and our dog Pete who I hope to see real soon. We have a great crew who are looking forward to our arrival in Mobile, Alabama in the next few days. Happy New Year.

From Bruce Voges: To all my family and friends, We are now rounding the tip of Florida and heading toward Mobile. I want to thank all my very specific family and friends for all their support and prayers that made this journy possible. See you all soon. Bruce Voges, LST-325 Oakwood, IL

The On Line Chat Today: During our online chat today, we briefly touched on Linda Alvers' "Onto Rugged Shores: The Voyage of LST 534" -- I decided to watch it again this evening, and it was as good, if not better, than when I viewed it last year. But some of Howard K. Smith's opening remarks really struck home:

"... the LST is no match for mighty aircraft carriers or the vaunted battleships, whose wakes make military legends. The LST's are little remembered generally, except by those who sailed them. IN FACT, OF THE ONE-THOUSAND-PLUS LST'S BUILT FOR WORLD WAR TWO, NOT A SINGLE ONE HAS BEEN PRESERVED AND PUT ON DISPLAY. But their profound impact on the overall war effort, and the result, is undeniable." [Emphasis is mine] ... and then there were TWO! (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325 - Back On Line

History of LST-325

LST-325 Fund

LST-325 In Print Today

The Mobile Register

The New York Post

Back To The LST-325 Index

January 7 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 3

Status Report: From LST-325:18:14:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N25-35, W84-31 2. Ships systems: No.

2 Gen., gyro-compass inop.

3. 20,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 334, steering 340, SOA 9 kt, Sea State 1 to 2, wind force 1, swell direction 330, wind dir 090, cloud cover 30%, high cirris.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

6. Mobile arrival; 10 Jan, 10:30AM in front of Adam's Mark Hotel.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325 - Back On Line

Map Position For 7 Jan 2001 (Steve MacMinn LST-794)

Position Plot

History of LST-325

History For Each of the LSTs

LST-325 Fund

LST-325 In Print Today

Norfolk Virginian-Pilot

Today's Special Feature: NavSource Photo Archive For LST-325

Contact Countryman & McDaniel & The Cargo Letter - or see bottom of page

Back To The LST-325 Index

LST-325 At Nassau - 4 Jan 2001

 January 8 UPDATE - D-Day2 Minus 2 - Steaming Up The Channel Soon!

Status Report: From LST-325: 19:52:00 -0000 (GMT)

1. Position N27-57, W86-39

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass inop.

3. 18,500 gal fuel.

4. Track 325, steering 330, SOA 3 kt, Sea State 4 to 6, wind force 3, swell direction 350, wind dir 330, cloud cover 100%.

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

6. Mobile arrival; 10 Jan, 10:30AM in near of Adam's Mark Hotel.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Word From Our Navigator: It appears that they are now into the cold front that I was predicting. I don't anticipate that it should present any problems -- just higher seas and winds, a bit of rain, and a bit rockier ride than I would have wished for them on "the home stretch." They appear to be well enough ahead of schedule that this will not cause any delay in their arrival. I EAGERLY look forward to meeting those of you who are heading for Mobile; and sincerely regret NOT having that opportunity with those not so fortunate. Ship Ahoy! (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

From The Radio Shack: WW2LST/MM has been on the air today. Frequency is 14.249 (Jerry WB6DYB USS Southerland DDR-743)

Mobile Arrival Weather: A low of 45 for Jan. 10, 2001, a high of 55; overcast (but a low of about 28 the night before). Bring a coat.

Hearts & Minds At Rest: Since LST-325 first cast off for her historic voyage, there have been rumors that the U.S. Coast Guard had planned some punitive action for the crew, as a result of sailing against advice. May we now, again, put these unfounded fears to rest:

"I had a message on Jan. 4 from the Aide to Vice Adm. John Sklor, he told me that the Coast Guard has stated they will not do anything to the crew of the LST-325.  It was rumored that the Captain would be arrested when they arrived in Mobile.  This is not true and never was.  Please do not call the Coast Guard with your fears, no one will do anything to him or the crew.  Thanks for your help.  They are being very helpful and doing their job. (Linda Gunjak, United States LST Association.)

Some Thanks For Our Effort - here are some recent samples from YOU - for which we are grateful - The Cargo Letter

From William "Bill" Copeland RM3c, LST-909: There are just not enough "thank you" s in the world to show you how much this old LST 909 sailor and thousands like me are so grateful for the fantastic reports that you have been postings and the charts are terrific . With deep humility and gratitude., William "Bill" Copeland RM3c - copelst909@aol.com

From Jerry WB6DYB USS Southerland DDR-743: I can't thank you folks enough for the fine work you're doing with the LST-325 coverage. We all thank you I'm sure !!! 1955 to 1959.

I read your presentation on Modern High Seas Piracy and found it extremely interesting. We went through the Strait of Malaca enroute from Singapore to Ceylon, (it's name at the time). Wasn't that much commercial shipping in 1958, however no pirate would have wanted to mess with us ::)) We were escorting a carrier that was going to use it's helicopters to carry medical supplies and food inland to help with the floods in Ceylon, operated out of Trincomolee on the Northeast coas Have Fun

P.S. Your coverage is fantastic !!! -- C U in Mobile !

Indeed, we are grateful to be small part of historic effort! We thank you fellow Vets for serving!
Michael S. McDaniel, The Cargo Letter

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325

History of LST-325

History For Each of the LSTs

LST-325 Fund

LST-325 In Print Today

The Boston Globe - Jan. 5

The Mobile Register

The Philadelphia Inquirer

Contact Countryman & McDaniel & The Cargo Letter - or see bottom of page

Back To The LST-325 Index

January 9 UPDATE -Home Tomorrow - Carrying Our Hearts!

Status Report: From LST-325: 1300EST 9 Jan 2001

1. Position N29-02, W87-11

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass inop. =20

3. 17,000 gal fuel.

4. Track 345, steering 345, SOA 6.5 kt, Sea State 4 to 6, wind force 5, swe11 direction 345, wind dir 345, cloud cover 10% cumulous, high cirrus

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy.

6. Mobile arrival; 10 Jan, 10:30AM in near of Adam's Mark Hotel.

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Watch LIVE Arrival T.V.: NBC WPMI-TV 15 - NBC 15, Mobile will carry live web pictures tomorrow morning from 0530 CST.

UPDATE: Live T.V. effort was a failure.

Alternate

Advance Report From The Mobile News: By GEORGE WERNETH, Staff Reporter

Docks will limit visitors for arrival of LST-325 . Just 1,000 vehicles will be allowed on grounds to greet the veteran sailors on Wednesday. With public attention mounting for the Wednesday morning arrival of the now-famous LST-325 at the port of Mobile, wary Alabama State Docks officials decided Monday to limit the number of visitor vehicles to 1,000.

"We've gotten word that so many people want to come, we're afraid we're not going to have room for them all," State Docks spokeswoman Sarah Teague said.

"We're printing passes for 1,000 vehicles," said Sheri Reid, another docks spokeswoman. She said once 1,000 visitor vehicles have been admitted, any others will have to be turned away. Reid said those responsible for buses of school children and veterans should notify the State Docks today that they plan to come.

Reid said docks officials ask that visitors not arrive before 8 a.m. for the expected 10:30 a.m. docking of the LST-325. A colorful reception complete with a high school band, military drill team and veterans color guards & honor guards will start there about 11 a.m.

Arrangements: A media representative, just called from Mobile and said her hotel is packed with LSTers & families. Said over 200 rooms known to be taken through Association. Chamber of Commerce has arranged boat for media to go out and meet ship, also at least one other boat for some other officials. Weather nice (60f prdicted Wednesday) but very chilly tonight. Hats off to the greatest crew! They deserve the greatest welcome! (Ed. C. LST-391)

Last of It's Kind: Please remember the story of Comanche, the only survivor on the American side of the Little Big Horn, and Custer's Last Stand? LST 325- is the Comanche of this era. (Jim Frost)

Speaking For All of Us: For those who are able to go to Mobile to meet the LST-325 and the gallant crew: I hope you'll let them know that for every one person there meeting them, there has to be at least ten thousand more sitting at home celebrating their feat and wishing they were there. (Buddy LST-1126/Hon LST-1110)

Speaking For The Navy Vets: Saving this ship hits home for me, really hard. The ship I spent 4 years aboard is on the bottom in a couple of thousand fathoms in the Eastern Pacific. She was disposed of as a target ship in 1998. As the role of the Navy changed the fleet changed. In the 70's the Gearing class Destroyers, ( the class of my Destroyer) went thru a FRAM program, (Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization ) she was stripped from the main deck up and rebuilt to counter the soviet submarine threat. She looked nothing like the Ship I served aboard. Some FRAM'd Gearing class Destroyers are Museums but no pre-FRAM Destroyer of the Gearing class exists today. They even replaced the stacks as the steam plant was converted to burn light distilate fuels as opposed to the heavy Navy bunker oil. I could go on and on but I just wanted to express what it means to us sailors to have a ship as close to it's original configuration saved !! And this is one heck of a gift to the Sailors & Marines that either served aboard the LST-325 or the Sailors & Marines that were transported aboard her or others like her. This is a fantastic event !! (Jerry USS Southerland DDR-743 1955 to 1959)

Speaking For Ourselves: The true American soul of this patriotic adventure is of much greater importance for generations to come than the historic vessel itself. Respectfully, this has not been a production of "The Perfect Storm Meets The Cast of Cocoon." Because this LST-325 discussion has been populated & fueled largely by the thoughts of all the rest of you actual heroes who sailed a steady course during our country's darkest days -- I can think of no better learning laboratory for youth than a living letter from our valued veterans whose vivid memories have been shared with us here & on the other discussion lists daily, as our hopes aboard LST-325 rolled on. The various LST discussion lists from which much of our reported news has come are a national treasure which I have been proud to share with my child -- to let her see the actual meaning of American History -- and to let her know that the term "gallant" truly applies to all the many thousands of ex-U.S. Navy Gator sailors whose brave hearts dearly stowed away......on The Proud Voyage of LST-325 -- Bravo Zulu to each of you fellow Vets at home. America has no shortage of heroes tonight. (Michael. S. McDaniel (Capt. McD) - The Cargo Letter - Countryman & McDaniel - proud sponsor of this page)

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

MAP POSITION

Alternate Map Position for 9 Jan (Steve MacMinn LST-794)

Position Plot

Port of Mobile Arrivals - watch for the 325! - now on the list !

Daily Weather Briefing (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Current Satellite Still Photo

Current Satellite Animation

History of LST-325

History For Each of the LSTs

LST-325 Fund

LST-325 In Print Today

Lehigh Valley News - about our own 'Donk The Plumber' Perruso - Crew LST-325

The Mobile Register

NBC WPMI-TV 15 - two stories - NBC Mobile attempted to carry live web pictures - failed.

Contact Countryman & McDaniel & The Cargo Letter - or see bottom of page

Back To The LST-325 Index

Our Own Whale - Our Own Large Slow Target - Our Own LST - Comes Home

Courtesy- "The Whales of World War II" by Robert Jagers -- A true LST Sailor

Back To The LST-325 Index

 

January 10 UPDATE -Welcome Home Gallant Men of 325. BRAVO ZULU !!!!

North Atlantic Victory! Liberty Call !

Status Report: From LST-325: Mission Accomplished. Bells: Finished With Engines. Ship secure.

1. Position: Port of Mobile

2. Ships systems: No.2 Gen., gyro-compass inop.

3. 15,000 gal fuel.

4. Liberty Call

5. Ship's Company, 29, all healthy & home.

6. Mission Accomplished - BRAVO ZULU!

J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial
 

"Sun was rising but moon still visible. Men were silhoutted against sky. Ship was flying Old Glory"

First 325 Observer-- Ed C. LST-391

Note Our Observer: To Ed. C., Saw a note on your site of "First Observer-Ed.C. LST 391".

Noticed the name of Dominick Perruso of Easton PA as one of the crew that brought back the 325. He was on LST 391 in August 1944 when she was hit by mine in Cherbourgh harbor. Can't remember if he was from the "old" ship's company or came on in April 1944 with new group.Don't know where he went after.

I went on the 391 (right out of boot camp) in April 1944 just before the invasion of Normandy. Was a ship's cook striker. Was one of the skeleton crew when she was towed back to Norfolk Dec.1944-Jan 1945 and on her for a few months when she was a anphibious training ship in Little Creek VA.

Were you on her earlier in the Med or later in US. I can't connect to the list I have as of August 1944..

Great stories these last few days. (Ralph Weller WELLGEN@aol.com)

LIVE Arrival T.V.: NBC WPMI-TV 15 - NBC 15, Mobile attempted to carry live web pictures this morning from 0530 CST. Seems to have failed.

Alternate

Says It All: Below, we share a private message that speaks for all of us --

To: Albert J White
"Welcome home DAD. I love you and I am proud of you and all your shipmates.
Love Al"

Stoway Hearts Speak (some of the hundreds who write to support the gallant mission)

My stepdad, Henry Stephens USN 1950-1953 AO-105, and I traveled from Denham Springs, LA. to help welcome the heroic crew of the LST-325 home. These fantastic men and all who have supported them are truly an inspiration. The city of Mobile should be proud to have provided such a wonderful homecoming for this great ship. We were in Pascagoula for the USS Cole's arrival from Yemen, and the LST-325's return was certainly a more joyous event. God Bless all who serve in our nation's armed forces. Kelvin May (Kelvin May USNR Vet. 1980-1986 AS-36)

I just watched a news story on the return of the LST, and felt a urge to write to the wonderful men that gave of themselves, once again, in service to their country. I decided to do a search and this is where I ended up. I hope that one of the veterans on that glorious ship sees this message. Thank you dear men, for all you have given to me and my children. Because of you my children live a free life... because of you they have all they need, if not all they want. Thank you to all the veterans that may see this! My father is retired Navy... maybe that is why I felt my heart swell with pride seeing a ship returned to the U.S. But I believe it is due more to fact that my wonderful father taught me respect and love for my country... and a deep appreciation for all those who have fought for it. I am proud of all of you! You showed them all that it could be done! (Donna N.)

I watched with great admiration on the news tonight as you sailed into Mobile. You make all veterans proud and I salute you guys. It's a great thing you did bringing that old girl home to the country she proudly served. (Bob Boyd)

What a fantastic event this has been !!! Jack Frost put up a post a day or so back, his title was, " It probably sounds silly,but I'm a corny guy anyway". That has kept rattling around in my head, I felt that maybe we were getting a little giddy with joy for the folks that made this happen, and the crew. Last night I felt like a little kid on Christmas Eve. !! Thanks everyone for this gift of joy that this sailor has felt ! (Jerry WB6DYB USS Southerland DDR-743)

I received a cell phone call from my friend Harold Wright and his son who were standing on the dock when she coasted in - I could barely hear him over the very loud blasts from the ship's horn!! It sounded great and I just wish I could have been there also. He saw Jack(XO) standing tall and proud up on the deck and said they all were standing TALL and PROUD as she steamed in and then was turned around by two tugs (Jim Zeigle K9JZ)

From The Iberia News - Spain:

Heroes Prove Everyone Wrong - Veterans Made It Against all the odds, against the advice of the U.S. Coast Guard, and naval experts, the 29-member crew, average age 72 and made up mostly of veterans from World War II and the Korean War sailed the 328-foot LST vessel into the US port to a heroes welcome after a long and perilous journey from Gibraltar.

The veterans, who have become America's newest super heroes, were received by supporters and well wishers who had followed the story since their departure from Gibraltar on the 12th December. Many had followed the events as experts stated that the journey should not be made, claiming that the crew would be unable to react to emergencies, that the vessel was not sea worthy for such a journey, and that the weather was not suitable, all of this to be proven wrong by brave men who once defended our society with their lives. Crossing some of the toughest seas, and against the advice of naval experts the veterans proved to the whole world that experience and determination count in situations such as this.

The arrival has been hailed as one of the most astonishing achievements in recent times, one follower merely stated "Wow! What an exciting time, to watch history being made! The LST-325 has arrived, "

Followers of the historic journey have reacted with jubilee as the "rust bucket" as it was once called sailed into port yesterday.

This is what some people had to say

"I just watched a news story on the return of the LST, and felt a urge to write to the wonderful men that gave of themselves, once again, in service to their country. I decided to do a search and this is where I ended up. I hope that one of the veterans on that glorious ship sees this message. Thank you dear men, for all you have given to me and my children. Because of you my children live a free life... because of you they have all they need, if not all they want. Thank you to all the veterans that may see this! My father is retired Navy... maybe that is why I felt my heart swell with pride seeing a ship returned to the US. But I believe it is due more to fact that my wonderful father taught me respect and love for my country... and a deep appreciation for all those who have fought for it. I am proud of all of you! You showed them all that it could be done!" - Donna

"Welcome home DAD. I love you and I am proud of you and all your shipmates."

"Cell call from daughter on media boat says LST-325 is "beautiful sight". "We were all choked up." It's now coming in..."

Request From A LST Family: For those of you who visited my dads sight this proud morning on the arrival of LST-325, THANK YOU! I am just putting it together so be sure to visit again! I HAVE A FAVOR TO ASK of you, the sight is a surprise for my dad, he has not seen it yet! Could I ask you to sign the guestbook and if you are an LSTer, leave your LST number. I know it will mean a great deal to him to see who has been there! Thank you so very much! CLICK HERE (Glenda Jones)

LST-325 Discussion Group - keeping up with 325

Daily LST-325 Postion Map (Skipper Jim, LST 1110)

Port of Mobile Arrivals - LST-325 Reporting To Home Port

History of LST-325

History For Each of the LSTs

LST-325 Fund

In Print Today

ABC News

The Associated Press

CNN

Captain's Log - Roaches & faulty toilets

WWII Vets - Corroed Warship

Special Memories of WW II

The Veteran Sailor Interviewed Today By CNN: Tom Perkins, the man interviewed by CNN today, was with my Dad on the LST-909 off Mindoro on 15 December 1944. The U.S. assault force was jumped by a dozen Kamikazes. The 909 assisted in the downing of several, and got 3 more by its own guns. One of them grazed the port davit and spread debris & part of the pilot's body over the ship. It was pretty bad. The rest of the time the guys had a good time riding all over the Pacific visitng many different ports of call. They were involved in the Leyte & Okinawa invasions before duty in Japan. Their reunion last summer was a great time. And we salute Tom, my Dad & all the guys, especially the 325 today!!

Cell call from daughter on media boat says LST-325 is "beautiful sight". "We were all choked up." It's now coming in...will pass convention center about 10 a.m. CST on way to dock. At this time the only known network coverage is CNN although other networks may use local outlets. But CNN is known to be there. (Ed C. LST-391)

MSNBC - plus video

NBC WPMI-TV 15 - article

Back To The LST-325 Index

January 11 UPDATE -The "Voyage" Continues --BRAVO ZULU !!!!

NOTE To Readers: The Proud Voyage of LST-325 is not over. Now the work begins -- and we will continue to post. Keep visiting!

In Poem Today: Congratulations to the crew of LST-325 for an inspiring accomplishment! I found this poem among my grandfather's belongings years ago and I would like to share it with all those men & women from WWII that "built the bridges" we are still using today.

An old man going a lone highway Came at the evening, cold and gray To a chasm vast and deep and wide. The old man crossed at twilight dim- The sullen stream had no fear for him. But he turned when safe on the other side, And built a bridge to stem the tide. "Old man," said a fellow pilgrim near, "You are wasting your time with building here. Your journey will end with the closing day. You have crossed the chasm deep and wide You never again will pass this way-Why build you this bridge at evening tide?" The builder lifted his old gray head, "Good friend, in the way I have come," he said, "There followeth after me today A youth, whose feet must pass this way. This stream that has been as naught to me To the fair-haired youth might a pitfall be; He, too, must cross in the twilight dim, Good friend, I am building this bridge for him."
Thanks to all of you, Clair Mouton

Congratulations: Congratulations, Captain Jornlin, on your successful trip. I served with you aboard the HICKMAN COUNTY (LST-825) 1964-1965. I was then the independent duty corpsman, as a HM1. Again congratulations, I mentioned your trip to my Dr. yesterday, an old navy man himself, and his response was " " I agree. With a lot of respect and envy I offer the traditional Navy "Well Done". (John K. Lowe Jr. HMCM, USN Retired)

So Where Are You Going After This Heroic North Atlantic Voyage?

"We're Going To Disneyland !": This is the now historic claim these days after all our heroes finish their tasks -- from astronauts to sports winners. But just as our 325 has become old -- and each of us -- so has our dear Disneyland. Call us wacky, but it just seems appropriate for this 325 crew to say "Were're Going To Yesterland!"
Eight U.S. Subs Retire At Once - Good-Bye USS Triton

In Print Today

Atlanta Journal Constitution - old ships neve die

Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel

Back To The LST-325 Index

POST ARRIVAL UPDATES - WELCOME HOME SITES, PHOTOS & NEWS --BRAVO ZULU !!!!

Welcome Home Site For LST-325 - from Skipper Jim's LST-1110 - Exclusive Pictures!

In Print Today Jan 16 2001.

The Associated Press - mission accomplished!

The Cincinnati Post - it's #1 on Skipper Jim's LST-1110 Hit Parade!

Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel

Lincoln Journal-Star

The Mobile Register - it could take over US$1M To Restore LST-325

The Mobile Register - 19 stories about our boys

The Philadelphia Inquirer

Arrival Photos - Maritime Mobile Service network - great!

Football Heroes: Watch for some of the crew during halftime of Saturday, Jan. 20's Senior Bowl in Mobile. They are the special guests of the bowl game and will be recognized at halftime

In Print Jan 18, 2001

The Mobile Register

Thanks For Our Effort

Sorry it has taken me this long to express my thanks for the fine work done by The Cargo Letter on the return of the LST 325. Your dedication to this project and to the brave men who carried out this improbable journey is to be congratulated. You have provided a lasting service to all of us who have supported and followed this endeavor. More importantly, I feel, you have provided a lasting service to the many generations of Americans to follow. Your efforts have produced an important resource for future students and historians to access and use. The sacrifices the these men of the greatest generation have made and continue to make will be an inspiration to all those who read your pages.

Bravo Zulu, The Cargo Letter, this is a fitting tribute to these men and to all the brave men who served America in the Gator Navy !

Steve, proud son of a 395er

Dear Steve -- As you above all know, historic sacrifices were made for you & me and our families about 56 years ago by these brave men. Our opportunity at The Cargo Letter to chronicle the return of LST-325 is a rare honor bestowed upon us by these same guys who put national safety & future before themselves. We deeply appreciate your thanks for our effort, but the true THANKS are to so many soldiers & sailors whose efforts truly made certain our freedom to express thoughts like these. The Great Voyage of these men continues.

Michael S. McDaniel - Editor, The Cargo Letter (Capt. USA, Ret.) (Capt. McD)

Current LST-325 Activity - Working hard on securing a AC to DC Converter to obtain ship board power for the lights, pumps, & commence to rehabbing. DC power is always a problem when my ships are at port.

Overhaul - A request has been made for at least weekly updates on LST-325 progress for us to report here.

Back To The LST-325 Index

February 22 UPDATE - We Mourn The Passing - an American Hero Is Lost

There is sad news tonight that an American hero has passed away.

With sadness & respect, the proud service of:

Commander John R. Carter, United States Navy Reserve (Ret.) -- is here remembered.

From the LST-325 Return Voyage web page:

"After fullfilling a personal dream to bring home the Memorial Ship, Jack Carter passed away on the evening of February 20, 2001. Jack Carter was a genuinely good man who gently touched many lives including ours, here at PVNET.

We will always remeber Jack as a man of dignity and principle, who helped those around him any he could without question or fanfare. Jack was a doer. We will miss Jack and are honored to have had the privelege of his frindship."

From The Cargo Letter:

Commander Jack Carter was that certain rock, that driving force as Executive Officer (XO) of LST-325 on her historic crossing of the North Atlantic in year 2001. His many reports filled the spaces of this web page as our source of daily information and feuled our continuing hopes -- until the very moment of mission accomplishment. Jack's reports always signed:
J.R. Carter, CDR, USNR(Ret.) XO, M/V LST Memorial

Jack's insightfull vessel status reports will remain displayed here, throughout this memorial web page as proof of a professional life at sea -- quite well fulfilled.

There will be more added here, below, about this great officer in the days to come, but we feel that Jack's wife Jean & family. family & shipmates can take comfort in knowing that his final mission for America was undertaken with both style & success. There can be no greater tribute to a U.S. naval officer.

All this, because of the dedication to an oath taken by Jack upon being commissioned an Ensign so many years ago -- McD

Memorial Services For CMDR. Jack Carter:

The Memorial Web Site: Services For Commander Carter

Thursday, March 1, 2001 at 10 AM. Commander Carter was cremated and buried at sea. God's Speed.

Ft. McArthur Post Chapel, San Pedro, California. A reception followed the service. The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the American Cancer Society in Jack's name.

Personal Rememberances of Commander Carter:

"Jack was one of the truly great men aboard the LST-325 and I consider my life richer for having served with him during our time in Crete. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family. May his final voyage be smooth sailing." Roald Zvonik

"We, who are left behind, must see that the dream Jack Carter had of the LST 325 being home in the USA, serving as an operating memorial be fulfilled. His service for our country over fifty years ago during wartime, and again this year for the memorial exemplify those of "The Greatest Generation". He's left his mark in our society which his loved ones can be proud. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends." Buddy LST 1126/Hon LST 1110

From Our Dec. 27 2000 Update (earlier - above) -- LST-325 carried this Jack Carter rememberance:

"Radio Contact: On radio at 14.222.5. Ship rolling hard. Cdr. Carter having to hold on to desk."

-- indeed, what better rememberance can there be for a U.S. Navy officer of the line?

>>> Jack has helped make it possible that his PROUD VOYAGE OF LST-325 WILL CONTINUE !

Back To The LST-325 Index

February 23 UPDATE - Message From Captain Robert Jornlin - LST - 325                           

          ABOUT THE VOYAGE & THE WISH LIST FOR THE SHIP

As all of you know, the crew of LST 325 made it into Mobile, AL, on Jan. 10, 2001, but you may not know that we were one hour early! We had traveled at 1700 miles in the Mediterranean and at 4300 miles from Gibraltar to Mobile, a total of 6,000 miles plus, and that did not count our 360 degree turns. The crew of the 325 was the best and most experienced crew to ever set sail on a landing ship tank, and I am most grateful to have sailed with them.

We were not an unsafe ship, as reported by the press after the Coast Guard had warned us to stay in port. We had new canister life rafts, life jackets with whistles and lights, we had a damage control/fire-fighting team, the CO2 bottles were all filled, fire hoses were hooked up and tested and we had corrected 11 out of the 16 discrepancies the inspector had cited, who had spent three days on the ship; gave us an inspection as thorough as one could give. We worked on the other five, but could not possibly correct them in Gibraltar. They had to do with the electrical wiring, emergency shut down controls for the mains, two more 20-man life rafts, and remove all oily water and oil from the bilge's.

The ship used approximately 1,300 gallons of BP diesel per day when both main engines were working and about 30 gallons of lube oil! The starboard engine lost number 12 cylinder about 1,000 miles out of Gibraltar and the engineers shut that cylinder off and we traveled 3,300 miles on only11 cylinders on the starboard engine!

I want to thank all of you supporters who never gave up. You kept encouraging us and praying for us, and we will not forget you. Those of you who said it can1t be done, those of you who said, "You are all crazy," and especially those of you who wrote the U.S. State Department, the Coast Guard, American Embassy and said we were not qualified, unsafe and should not be allowed to sail the ship, I say to you -- take a look in Mobile Bay --325 you will see! She is beautiful, she is home where she belongs in the USA. She has a little rust, needs some loving care, but with all of your help we will have her all dressed up for the LST reunion in Sept. I am putting in a list of repairs in another article. I would like to see ship crews or state LST chapters take on these jobs. Let me or Mr. Earl Stone know. Pick out a time to come down and have fun as a group. We would accept money in place of labor and/or materials.

Captain Robert D. Jornlin, USN, LST-325
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LST 325 SHIP REPAIR LIST & PROGRESS BY PRIORITY >>>

FIRST PHASE: STATIC DISPLAY - GOAL SET FOR SEPT. 2001
1. AC to DC Electric Rheostat Rectifier
A. Being built (Don Chapman in charge)

2. Sewage Confinement System

A. Complete system

B. Holding tank with eductor pump

C. Dominick Perruso has plans for this

3. Clean Bilge's

A. Remove all oil from main engine room bilge's & clean

B. Clean auxiliary engine room bilge's

C. Both must be gas free & pass Coast Guard inspection

D. Carl Black to get bids

4. Get New Fire Extinguishers. (units on ship are beyond pressure test dates)

A. Need estimates

5. Get Fire Plan In Place (Coast Guard requirement)

A. Need diagram of ship where fire equipment is located

B. Post number for fire department

C. Procedure for charging ship fire main

D. Check Coast Guard requirements

6. Paint & Chip Paint As Necessary

A. Sides, bow, stern, etc.

B. Superstructure treated with acid then paint all

C. Main deck spot chip, acid wash/power wash, paint

D. Officers country

E. Galley

F. Wheelhouse, radio room

G. Crew1s quarters

H. Port and starboard sides

I. Tank deck

J. Entries forward (dog houses)

    1. Main deck area

    2. Second deck area

    3. Third deck area to tank deck

K. Emergency fire pump room

7. Electric

A. Replace all light fixtures not working - those jury rigged with pigtail lights - officers country, galley, crew1s quarters, etc., to meet Coast Guard inspection

8. Need Two Gangways

A. Fix the ship's so it will swing out at 90 degrees - put wheels on the end

B. Need one with steps for safe access up to ship (Coast Guard requirement - must meet their criteria)

9. Make Wooden Platform Over Top of Main Deck For Easy Walking (safety)

10. Cut Holes In Tank Deck To View Engine Rooms & Engines

11. Widen Access Stairway (ladder) to Tank Deck From Crew's Quarters Aft.

SECOND PHASE: GET THE SHIP RUNNING

To come later: repair or replace main engines, #2 auxiliary engine.

LST 325 IS NOT LEFT AT THE DANCE >> Our Current Accomplishments Include:

In only a few weeks, the LST-325 has had the following done:

Mr. Earl Stone has taken command (cell phone 334-604-5492), security, work parties, workers, times & jobs.

Meat that was quarantined by the FDA removed. Reefers & galley sprayed with Clorox to disinfect. Agricultural inspection passed.

Other garbage removed & flammable materials is removed.

All items that could be stolen, are locked up.

Ships spaces with parts, tools, etc., are locked up.

Spaces cleaned, decks cleaned, galley cleaned.

Office set up in captain's stateroom.

Ship has a cell phone: 334-402-1225

We have a professional person in charge of public relations: Ms. Priscilla Roberts, aide to U.S. Congressman Hall, Government Relations.

We are looking at a book publicaion. We have hats, pins, T-shirts & patches for sale. Please see ads in Scuttlebutt. We have many more projects started to fix up the ship & to raise money.

The electricity is the big hold up. We need DC for lights, fresh water & to start any of the electric motors. It is being worked on hard.

Captain Bob Jornlin, U.S. LST Ship Memorial
P.S. With Linda Gunjak & Mike helping in all aspects, we have a team second to none!

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March 2 UPDATE - The Blue Crew Takes Command of LST-325

The crew that sailed the LST-325 back to Mobile is known as the "Gold Crew" and the crew that relieved the "Gold Crew" when the ship arrived in Mobile is known as the "Blue Crew". The "Gold Crew" wears gold name tags and the "Blue Crew" wears blue name tags.

About three weeks before the LS-325 arrived in Mobile, Capt. Hal Pierce(Navy Port Coordinator) called & asked me if I could form a relief crew for the LST-325 and I did not know how to say no. The "Blue Crew" reported for duty 10 January 2001 and expect to remain until we are relieved. We have no idea when that will be. We have about 10 very dedicated old men who give their time and money to this project. One hundred percent of the contributions we receive go directly to the LST SHIP MEMORIAL, INC.. This crew has paid for 100% of all costs incurred in the clean-up of the ship. This crew also escorts visitors about the ship.

Our compensation for this work is the pride & joy we receive when we welcome old LST sailors aboard. Most of these old sailors become somewhat emotional when they step aboard, for their visit back in time.

Earl Stone >>> (334) 604-5492 (week days 8 am til 4 pm - onboard telephone)

Comments On Our New Captain: Went to Mobile to meet Capt. Jornlin to except some lines which A Mr.Bollow donated to the LST-325.Arrived at the ship late but long enough to see that it is nice and clean.Mr. Stone is doing a great job. The CG did put in effect that no money can be excepted from visiters aboard or on the dock. Bob was right on. We had to fight for everything we got so far, so whats new????? Mr Jack Carter will be deeply missed. -- Ron Maranto

In Print February, 2001:

Ottawa Daily Times Monday Feb. 19th 2001:
"The Illinois River Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet held Feb. 17 reports that Mr. Lockas was given several honors for his participation in the voyage of LST-325. Mr. Lockas states that American ingenuity brought LST-325 back home. He talked about the hole in the engine room & the repair of the blown engine as examples of good old American ingenuity in bringing home the ship safely. He was presented a U.S.Navy flag by VFW Post 5506 and the Marseilles American Legion Post 235. Also a Street sign which said "Lockas St." on one side and LST-325 on the other. U.S.Representative Jerry Weller announced that he would read words into the Congressional Record to honor Lockas & the other veterans involved in the historic voyage."
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March 5 UPDATE - "high drama behind the sentimental journey of 29, white-haired sailors"

In Print March 5, 2001:
Sun-Sentinel of South Florida, Monday March 5 2001 - Featuring a great photo & commentary of our own Dewey Taylor ! The article reads: ".....high drama behind the sentimental journey of 29, white-haired sailors"

Bravo Zulu: In doing a bit of research last night, I came to find out that the forerunner of "Bravo Zulu" (Navy-ese for "well done!") was "Tare Victor George" (TVG), and was the equivalent used during the 2nd World War. I'm not exactly sure when the changes took place, but I get the feel that it wasn't too long after "The Big One." It was then that both the "spoken letters" and the various code "phrases" were changed. Skipper Jim, LST 1110

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March 6 UPDATE - State of Wisconsin Honors Lt. Donlad Molzahn

From Madison WISC-TV-3 News of March 6, 2001 - State of Wisconsin Honors Veteran Who Crossed Atlantic:
"A 74-year-old Wisconsin Coast Guard veteran was honored March 5 by the Wisconsin State Assembly as a hero. Lt. Donlad Molzahn, a LaCrosse, Wis., native, risked his life to serve his country in World War II, but it was his amazing journey this past winter that caught everyone's attention. Molzahn along with 28 men, spent 57 days at sea this winter returning the US vessel LST-325 from Europe to the United States.

For going against all odds and across a stormy Atlantic in the name of patriotism, Molzahn was given the Assembly's "Hometown Hero" award. Molzahn's group was advised by the U.S. Dept. of State and the Coast Guard that a winter trip across the Atlantic was dangerous. Molzahn worked 14-hour days while aboard the vessel, News 3 reports. "I was always busy, and it never occurred to me to think about what's going to happen or anything," Molzahn said. "I was just busy doing my job."

Molzahn served in the South Pacific from 1944-1946 in World War II. He and the other sailors on the journey all fought aboard a similar ship during the war. Molzahn is looking forward to the ship's dedication this September."

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March 18 UPDATE - First Day Memorial Postal Cover

Visit The New LST-325 Memorial Ship Official Page - brought to us by - Skipper Jim, LST 1110
New LST-325 Memorial Donations Page

First Day Memorial Postal Cover of Arrival Day - signed by Capt. Jornlin

In Print March 18, 2001:

"Engines of Our Ingenuity" - University of Houston, College of Engineering
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March 21 UPDATE - Crewmember Albert J. White Honored By New Mexico

In Print March 20, 2001:
Albuquerque Journal - Interview with Albert J. White of Roswell, N.M. & more great stories of The Proud Voyage. >>> "I thought that would be quite a good adventure," Albert J. White says of his recent trip across the Atlantic on a World War II-vintage amphibious assault ship." >>> Roswell is known as the "Pearl of The Pecos", proud home of New Mexico Military Institute (school of your editor) and birthplace of modern rocketry at the Mescalero Ranch of Dr. Robert Goddard. Thanks to Lanny Smith for this important contribution.

A Reminder of LST-325's New Cyber Home: The pulse of our proud fighting lady is felt at the new LST-325 Memorial Organization & Vessel website, the labor of a constant contributor to this page and new official webmaster of LST-325 -- Skipper Jim, LST 1110

Otherwise - we will assume you will continue to visit here for the latest daily news - (Capt. McD)

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March 23 UPDATE - LST-325 Store is Open For Business

The LST-325 Ship's Store -- a production of Skipper Jim, LST 1110. The Store is located at The Great New Site For Our Ship:
Click >>>
Get Those T-Shirts now -- Support The Restoration Effort!! (Capt. McD)
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April 2 UPDATE - Progress On LST Memorial Ship Steps Ahead - Surgery For Pop

LST Memorial Ship March 27 Photos - Including the Elusive Pictures of Michael Smith You Could't Find On Yahoo!

"Our cleanup efforts are moving forward at a better pace since we have lighting below decks. Thanks to Jim Bartlett and Joe Milakovich (Gold Crew) the engine overhaul for the #2 generator will start soon. On March 22nd we received a donation of 1100 linear feet of new fire hose.  All fire hose aboard needs replacing. We have two people who have a close relationship with the AMERAX Company who manufactures fire extinguishers. We are hoping for a donation of 20 extinguishers. We sent our wish list to the Ingalls Shipbuilding Company and they are searching their surplus inventory for items we need.

WANTED: We would be very happy if someone would donate a few cases of 120-130 volt light bulbs.

Remember, the Blue Crew works for the Gold Crew and for all the old LST sailors that come aboard!"

Earl Stone - Blue Crew (StoneGCA@aol.com)

FOR SALE: LST 1166 - only US$75,000

LST-325 Proud Crewmember Donk "Pop" Perruso Has Surgery: "I am recovering from back surgery performed on March 13th. The doctor made a three incision on my lombard section and a four inch incision on my right hip. They were all pinned and are anticipated to fuse together. My first day in my room I got sick, although I never got sea sick in my life. I brought up enough to float the 325 out to sea with the tide out. I came home on Friday, March 16. I have been doing therapy & walk around the house a lot. When I turn, I think I am back on the 325. I make 360 degree turns to get back on course. I was looking for Lockas or Strobel to help me out. (ha ha!) Anyway, I will make it, just like we made the trip home. It's just going to take time. I wanted to inform the crew that I am now home recuperating and there is no need to call. Thanks for the thoughts & prayers.

(PoP) Donk Perruso - LST-325
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April 13 UPDATE - Crew To Receive "Patriot of The Year Award" - in brave & historic company !

-- also today -- Welcome Home VQ-1 Crew !

Crew to Receive Prestigious "Patriot of The Year Award" - 12 Nov. 2001

-- Selected By U.S. Veterans' Day Commission

Excerpted Letter from Capt. Hal Pierce to Capt. Bob Jornlin:

"Mobile, Alabama is a designated Regional Veterans' Day Celebration Site, [so] designated for many years by the U.S. Dept. of Defense.  Although we have a big parade, patriotic concert & many other things, the hallmark event each year is the presentation of "The Patriot of the Year Award."  This award is a national level award. 

"Past recipients include astronaut Alan Shepard, Joint Chiefs Chair Adm. Tom Moorer, Senator Strom Thurmond, The Doolittle Raiders, Tuskegee Airmen, Women Air Force WASPs & many others.  Criteria for nomination are very stringent.

"It is interesting to me that although you & your crew got world-wide attention, you have received no national level award recognition yet, and it looks like that brings us back to Mobile.  You & your crew have been selected by our Veterans' Day Commission to receive the 2001 Patriot of the Year Award.  The format will be a large bronze plaque & impressive individual medallions for each crew member. These will be awarded to each crew member at the "Patriot Luncheon" on Veterans' Day at which you will be expected to speak.

"Crew participation will include riding in the parade, the luncheon, a big school children's program in the afternoon and attendance at a patriotic concert in the evening. The Marine Corps Band from Washington ("The President's Own") will be in concert in Mobile on that weekend & we would expect to introduce the crew at that concert. And . . . if it does come to pass that there is a national media event broadcast from the decks of the LST-325 that weekend, we would expect to present the plaque & medallions at that event also, in the interest of notoriety for everyone."

-- from Capt. Hal Pierce

....... a double BRAVO ZULU for natioanl recognition - long overdue!

In Other News April 13, 2001:......... ........Welcome Home VQ-1 Crew !

U.S. Navy EP-3 Crew Is Home ! - Our People Have Returned !! Our Tribute Web Site!
Includes Includes A U.S. "Fantasy Apology"

The Cargo Letter Coverage of the U.S. Navy EP-3E China Incident -- just as we have covered LST-325 for you!

Tune in daily to this site for reports of casualties at sea! Posted daily!
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April 16 UPDATE - Dry Docking of 325 Set Back -- Our Big Sister Opens As Museum

LST Memorial Ship Dry Docking Set Back:
"325's dry-dock has been moved back to July 1, 2001. Bender's ship yard has some emergency repair work not planned. Had estimate made for cleaning bilges -- $22,000. We are hoping to get that reduced a little. That would be both engine rooms & both shaft alleys, remove oil and water, and make gas free, necessary for Coast Guard compliance, and for dry-docking; compartments on both sides need to be gas free of the compartment you are doing any work (repairs) in."
CAPT. JORNLIN

Our Big Sister Now A Floating Museum:

The battleship Wisconsin (BB-64), which saw action in World War II, Korea & the Persian Gulf, opened to the public April 16 as a floating museum at Norfolk. Norfolk, home of the world's largest Navy base, was the Wisconsin's home port during much of the ship's service. The ship will remain in Norfolk for 5 years. The Navy then will either donate or sell the ship, probably to the city.

April 16 was the 57th Anniversary of the ship's commissioning for World War II service. The 887-foot Wisconsin was launched in 1943, 2 years after the bombing of Pearl Harbor -- one of 4 in the Iowa-class, the largest and last built by the Navy.

Wisconsin supported landings at Iwo Jima in 1945 & also served in Korea & the Persian Gulf War -- firing Tomahawk missiles into Iraq. She was decommissioned in 1991.

Wisconsin has classic teakwood decks & mounts nine 16-inch guns, which are the most powerful ever mounted on a U.S. battleship -- accurate up to 23 miles.

Wisconsin interior, with its sensitive electronic systems installed during the 1980' refit, is off-limits & is being preserved with dehumidifiers in the event that the Wisconsin is recalled to active duty. She's ready! It's A Great Navy Day! (Capt. McD)

In Tribute To BB-64 - here are the current links of interest:

BB-64 USS Wisconsin

USS Wisconsin Association

Dictionary of U.S. Fighting Ships For USS Wisconsin

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April 24 UPDATE -Capt. Jornlin Reviews Naval Recruits In Salute To M/V LST Memorial Ship

Jorlin Reviews Naval Recruits
Captain, Robert D. Jornlin, of Erlvill, Ill., visited Great Lakes Naval Traing Center last week where he served as reviewing officer for the recruit review. In addition, during his two days at Great Lakes, Jornlin, who was accompanied by LST-325's Chief Boatswain's Mate Bruce Voges, observed battle stations, attended the reception for honor recruit graduates, and spoke at the Seamanship Trainer where he and Voges were introduced by Capt. Douglas A. Block, commanding officer, Service School Command.
"I had a lot of talent on the LST-325, with years of experience," said the 61-year-old Navy veteran, who commanded the all-volunteer crew. "We had one common goal. We said we were going to do it and we did it. I had the world's greatest crew."

The odds with local bookies in Greece were 27 to 1 that they wouldn't get the ship going, Jornlin said. "Then it was 20 to 1, then 10 to 1, and pretty soon 1 to 1. But I didn't bet on it myself."

Read The Full Story With Photos: Great Lakes Naval Traing Center"s "Great Lakes Bulletin"

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Contact Countryman & McDaniel & The Cargo Letter - or see bottom of page

 

All is quite, very well for our boys -- who have beat the odds and redefined the word "Gallant."

All is also quite well for our nation - Michael S. McDaniel -- Well Done & Bravo Zulu, Quite Indeed. (Capt. McD)

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A Special Note

Let's not forget this ship is 58 years old and sometimes the parts have broken or the laptop won't work. One night at sea our departed XO Cmdr. Jack Carter was fixing the Gyro and it took most of the day. The Captain took a extra couple hours of the XO watch so he could get some sleep. Jack came running up to the bridge and apolized to the Capt for beining late for his deck watch and Capt. Bob Jornlin said don't worry about it I told the guys to let you sleep. That was the type of guys we had on that ship bringing it home. The U.S. Navy placed a beacon on the vessel, telling them if they were going into bad weather. These men are did a hell of a job. Standing watches 4 on 8 off and helping in any way they can to get this beautiful LST-325 home so you people can see her. Please come to Mobile and express your thoughts to the guys. They have worked their butts off to bring her home. How many of you would have gone through what they have? Please remember they need donations to continue this project now that they are gome. No Government money has been spent so far so lets back the boys and help it to continue on. The address:
USS LST Ship Memorial Inc. 64 Ponderosa Dr. Oregon, Oh. 43616-2221. All are tax deductable. They don't care if it is a $1.00 or more. Let's help them out.
Linda Gunjak, United States LST Association.

A Prayer For These Great Men of 325

On Her Proud Voyage of 2000 -2001 To Sustain these Great Men At Sea

Eternal Lord God, who alone spreads out the heavens and rules the raging of the sea; who has compassed the waters within its bounds, until day and night come to an end. Be pleased to receive into thy Almighty care and most gracious protection thy servants aboard the ship LST-325. Preserve them from the dangers of the sea and from all perils of their voyage. Return them in safety to their homes and families, to enjoy the blessings of the land and the fruits of their labors. Give them a thankful remembrance of thy mercies and the knowledge of you abiding presence. This we pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, One God now and forever. Amen
Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer 1786.
Father Daniel A. Brown, Rector - former SM2, LST-905

- an LST sailor in Vietnam 1967-68

Calvary Episcopal Church, Wadesboro, NC

"Eternal Father" - The U.S. Namy Hymn

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Great Men - On A Great National Venture!

God's Speed & Following Seas, To LST-325!

LST-325 Memorial Organization & Vessel

United States LST Association

LST 325 Memorial Ship - the long voyage home

U.S. Navy Amphibious Units Are Known As

"Gators"

The Cargo Letter Is A Gator Family -- Our Relative - A Line Officer Aboard:

USS La Moure County LST-1194 - Operation Desert Storm

Commander Hampton H. Dowling, United States Navy

Brother of Capt. Michael S. McDaniel - Editor - The Cargo Letter (Capt. McD)

 "Any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction, I SERVED IN THE UNITED STATES NAVY."

  JFK - August 1961     

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