2015 Reunion - Cancelled
Update #6 and Final for 2015
Chase Association Members, it is with great disappointment that we must announce the cancelation of our 2015 Reunion. When the Baltimore plan failed, a Cape May plan was attempted. But, perhaps the turmoil or the late timing was too much. Our Acting President recently sent this note explaining. "Hi Everyone, I am sorry to report that we do not have enough reservations at the hotel to cover the expense of the reunion. We tried to hold off as long as we could to give everyone a chance to make plans or work out arrangements to attend. We only could secure 8 out of the 17 needed by this week. As it is we will lose 25% of the deposit but that is how it goes. If you have made any plans to attend please cancel them as soon as possible. The hotel is going to return all the people who have sent payment their money in full. Please be sure and confirm that with your bank or credit card company. They we in process of doing this today. Again I am sorry we could not get this to work out. The few members that have been responsible for all of the past reunions and work for the Association will be meeting in the fall to discuss the future of the Association and in what direction it will take. With low turnout and very little interest in volunteering we are going to have to consider a smaller path for the future. We will send out a notice of what we have decided sometime late fall. If in the mean time we receive any e-mails of people who would like to step in and take over the association the following positions remain open. President Vice President-Doug Ward Secretary Treasurer Reunion Committee (4 people) Again please let me know if you do not receive 100% of your refund from the hotel, and sorry again that we could not make this happen we were looking forward to this as was the command at TRACEN Cape May. Thanks Pete" Update #5 for 2015
Notice: 2015 Chase Assoc. reunion in Baltimore is canceled due to the unrest there and other unforeseen circumstances. A plan B reunion rescue has been planned as follows. When: Arriving Friday September 25th - Departing Sunday the 27th. Where: The La Mer Beachfront Inn, 1317 Beach Ave., Cape May, NJ 08204 (Around the corner from the base) Planned Activity: Attend Friday morning Recruit Graduation at TRACEN Cape May followed by lunch at the Galley and a tour of the base. Ahoy Chasers, Sorry it has taken so long to get back to you on the reunion rescue news but your crew members have been busy putting together what we think is going to be a fantastic 6th biennial reunion celebrating our 12 years as a crew. We are really looking forward to seeing everyone there. Attached, please find the form at the bottom you will need to fill out and return to the hotel. This reunion is an all inclusive package. There are three options for you to choose from as far as rooms based on occupancy. The cost is per person. This includes 2 nights, Friday and Saturday at the hotel, the Friday night meet and greet and the Saturday night formal dinner. If you have trouble with the form call the La Mer at 609-884-9000 and tell them you are with the Cutter Chase reunion. Note: Those wanting to attend the the Friday activity may want to book a room for Thursday. Contact the La Mer tell them that you are attending the Chase reunion and they will give you our reduced room rate for the extra day not included in the reunion package. We have to arrive at the main gate at 09:30 Friday morning so those arriving early Friday morning for the activity are advised to get to the La Mer early and Check in early (actual check in time is 3:30 on Friday) so we can carpool as parking may be limited due to the early hour. Our activities will include a trip back to Boot Camp at Training Center Cape May on Friday morning to attend the graduation followed by lunch at the Galley (with the Boots if possible) and a tour of the base and possibly a Cutter if in port and available. At the end of our tour Exchange privileges will be extended to our group. We will also get a chance to see the brick purchased by the Chase Assoc. in support of the new Enlisted Memorial as the walkway is under construction and our brick is installed. As for me it was MIKE-109 and we sure are looking fine, our CC he's got real class, he just likes to kick our ... sound off 1-2 ........ This may be my favorite reunion because I have always wanted to return to boot camp (missed the visit during reunion 2). My boot camp where as a 20 year old getting off a bus at 2:00am was met with a very loud voice telling me to get back on the bus because I was never going to make it. When I see you please feel free to ask me what the 2nd thing that happened. It promises to be a fantastic time so I hope all of you can make it. The greater Cape May area offers things like Shopping and Beach activities as well as Wildwood a short drive North that offers an action packed Boardwalk so there will be plenty to do during the day on Saturday during our free time. I will be sending out a complete itinerary in a few weeks to better define the times and food etc. Now, don't forget to call and or email your shipmates to help get the word out and fill them in on the Change to Cape May. We want to make sure that every Chaser gets a chance to attend what we hope to be our best reunion yet. (To all Chasers who have sent me checks for the original Baltimore reunion I am in the process of writing out checks to mail back to you. I am sorry we kept your money tied up but you should all have your money back by mid next week. If you do not receive your check within the next ten days please contact me right away) Thanks again to everyone who sent their money early and waited and for all our Chaser family members who have been so patient as we have been working so hard to make sure we hold on to our Chase Association reunion tradition. We have not nor will we ever fail our Chaser family. One last item of interest. Woody had Chase Association Challenge Coins made for the Ships store which was to be a surprise in Baltimore. They are beautiful and high quality with our full color crest on one side, USCG seal on the other. Want one? Attend the reunion as supplies are limited. We ask that you please bring a raffle prize donation to support our fundraising events. As you know we are a "No Dues" Association and rely solely on your generosity so that we can continue to hold reunions and support projects such as the $500 brick purchase and others. Check our web site under News and Events for updates and new postings. chaseassociation.weebly.com Any Questions? Contact me at [email protected] or call evenings 617-965-6296 Update #4 for 2015
On behalf of the CHASE Association and its Vice President (now Acting President), Peter Levine is working on a Plan B for 2015 and should have information to report by the 6th of June or so. Watch here for details on time and location for this summer/fall event. Although obstacles prevented Mac from providing a truly first class event in Baltimore as Plan A, we hope to return to that venue when the city is back to normal. We also appreciate his successful efforts in recovering deposits that were not technically recoverable. I hope you'll join me in wishing Mac the best during this fiscally turbulent government year. We will miss his enthusiasm as President but look forward to seeing him at future events as sequestration and Border commitments permit. Brian Perkins, CHASE Association Webmaster Update #3 for 2015
Fellow Shipmates, The Baltimore Reunion is formally cancelled. Due to the concern on the social climate of the city of Baltimore, and the lack of shipmates who did not register for this event, which in turn cause a cash flow problem, the event is unable to take place. However, Peter Levine has advised me today, that many of you wanted to have the event in the Atlantic City/Cape May area. Peter stated he has been looking into this as an alternative site. As most of you know, I work for US Customs and Border Protection, and travel a lot. My cycle for travel I had to change so I could do the Baltimore event. Since Peter and other shipmates would like to push this back to September, I will be unable to attend or be part of this planning due to work commitments, as I switched cycles to work the event in August. In addition, I regret to inform you, I am also serving notice of my resignation of President of the Chase Association. My work commitments have over taken all my free time away, and I am preparing for retirement in the next few years that takes up my free time, as we plan to move to another part of the country in the next few years. I have a very full plate, and am unable to dedicate the focus and time needed this position requires. I am sure Peter and other will find a way to fill the void, as Peter and others are so dedicated to keeping the Chase spirit alive, I just cannot provide the same spirit as they do. As of June 1, 2015, I have formally resigned as President of the Chase Association. Thank you all who have supported me in my short time, but family and career have over taken all of my free time, making it impossible to serve in the capacity of President. Peter and company I am sure will provide you a wonder event. I have start to notify the Coast Guard, Admiral Thaddeus Allen, the Hotel, the Catering Service, Coast Guard Achieves, and many others of the cancellation. PLEASE if you have hotel reservations I suggest you cancel them immediately, as well as other travel arrangements you might have made. I am very sorry this could not have taken place, but the my fellow shipmates have determined the Baltimore venue was not what they wanted to have, I have heard you loud and clear, and hope your new plans work out for the best of all involved. My deepest regards, Collin “MACDONALD |
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Update #2 for 2015
May 1, 2015
To my Fellow Chase Shipmates,
First. Thank you to all of our shipmates who promptly registered and paid in full for this reunion. Your enthusiasm, Chase spirit, and your interest is appreciate and noted. I only wish I could have a more positive news to report, but it is what it is. We are now entering the final stretch for planning the USCGC Chase Ship’s Reunion in Baltimore, Maryland for 14-16 August 2015 and on June 1 we will reached a critical point to decide what type of reunion we will have. As of this date, we have only collected almost one quarter of what is needed to finance this event. We are behind payments for the catering service, the hotel reports very few have registered, and we will lose the blocked rooms, to another group. Registration is no where it should be for this time, and much more is needed from those who have not registered or on fence.
Simply put, if we are to have this reunion as it is planned, we need much more of the crew to participate and register in the next few weeks. Otherwise, we have no choice but to either look at alternatives and change the entire reunion plans to conform to what you the crew wish to have or simply have no reunion this year at all. If registration and participation do not meet the 100% mark 100 people registered and paid by 1 June, a much smaller and more cost efficient event will be planned. The Chase Association already invested over $500.00 of seed money to get things going, and this will be lost if we do not have 100 people registered and paid by 1 June. Current registered crew will receive their registration fees back, and we will have to calculate a new registration fee based purely on what can be done with what we have registered.
So it is down to this, we have one month starting on 1 May to 31 May to collect the needed funds to make this event happen. Otherwise, the type of reunion we will have based on what we have for the total registration, and the interest of the crew. If we do not meet the minimal requirements for this Reunion (100 people - Paid in Full), it must be scaled back, as a pay as you go event, or cancelled.
I want all to understand the ramifications, if we have to do an alternative plan. The Reunion will be held in Baltimore, at the same hotel. No Friday meet and great at the hotel, if we have the event we will have to go to a local eatery of bar, pay as you go. No function rooms in the hotel. For Saturday night, we will arrange to have the diner on Saturday Night at a local restaurant, pay as you go. The Chase Associate will still have to charge a registration fee, to cover some expenses, mainly to purchase a wreath for a small ceremony at Curtis Bay Shipyards for our six lost shipmates, and to pay for the picnic lunch that has been arranged at our visit to Curtis Bay CG Yards.
I will advise Admiral Thaddeus Allen, our guest of honor, and cancel his appearance. If a Reunion is held it must be on a shoestring budget, as we still will need some funds to make this happen. If we must go to the worst case scenario and cancel the event, it is very probable the Chase Association will lose its seed money used for deposits for the hotel and catering services.
One more topic, as you now the City of Baltimore has gone through some public unrest the past week. Much of the city as of this date remains in a curfew, and the western part of the city has some serious damage inflected by protesters. I talked to the Chamber of Commerce, Police Department, Coast Guard, and the Mayor’s Office today. All stated not to cancel from Baltimore, they all believe this will be well behind them come August, and the city will be very safe in the area we are. So I just wanted to report that to you, just in case you have concerns. I have no concerns, as the Inner Harbor area is very safe, and would not be affected, most of the trouble is many miles away in the North West section of the city.
We understand this have been a very hard winter for many, and of course the economy remains sluggish, and many are on fixed incomes, but this is a special event that took a lot of coordination, planning, and dedication for this reunion.
I am very disappointed with the response and registration at this point, but I still remain very optimistic, and understanding, I hope that we can turn this around in the next month and on June 1st, I will be able to have a more optimistic report on the reunion activities. The Chase Reunion Planning committee plans to meet this coming weekend to discuss the current state, and if needed an alternate plan providing we do not meet the goal of have a total of 100 people (including spouses) to meet the minimal requirements of the catering service and other planned activities. As of now I have stopped all planning and solicitations for contributions, and I fear many of the commitments I do have will not be honored based on today’s results of paid attendance.
I am appealing to the Chase crews to support this event, if you cannot make it, a donation would help regardless of what type of reunion we have, but your support is needed if we are to meet in Baltimore this August. As always I am open to your input, as this is your event, as we are just trying to make it an enjoyable one for you.
Thank you.
Regards,
A. Collin “MAC” Donald
President, Chase Association
May 1, 2015
To my Fellow Chase Shipmates,
First. Thank you to all of our shipmates who promptly registered and paid in full for this reunion. Your enthusiasm, Chase spirit, and your interest is appreciate and noted. I only wish I could have a more positive news to report, but it is what it is. We are now entering the final stretch for planning the USCGC Chase Ship’s Reunion in Baltimore, Maryland for 14-16 August 2015 and on June 1 we will reached a critical point to decide what type of reunion we will have. As of this date, we have only collected almost one quarter of what is needed to finance this event. We are behind payments for the catering service, the hotel reports very few have registered, and we will lose the blocked rooms, to another group. Registration is no where it should be for this time, and much more is needed from those who have not registered or on fence.
Simply put, if we are to have this reunion as it is planned, we need much more of the crew to participate and register in the next few weeks. Otherwise, we have no choice but to either look at alternatives and change the entire reunion plans to conform to what you the crew wish to have or simply have no reunion this year at all. If registration and participation do not meet the 100% mark 100 people registered and paid by 1 June, a much smaller and more cost efficient event will be planned. The Chase Association already invested over $500.00 of seed money to get things going, and this will be lost if we do not have 100 people registered and paid by 1 June. Current registered crew will receive their registration fees back, and we will have to calculate a new registration fee based purely on what can be done with what we have registered.
So it is down to this, we have one month starting on 1 May to 31 May to collect the needed funds to make this event happen. Otherwise, the type of reunion we will have based on what we have for the total registration, and the interest of the crew. If we do not meet the minimal requirements for this Reunion (100 people - Paid in Full), it must be scaled back, as a pay as you go event, or cancelled.
I want all to understand the ramifications, if we have to do an alternative plan. The Reunion will be held in Baltimore, at the same hotel. No Friday meet and great at the hotel, if we have the event we will have to go to a local eatery of bar, pay as you go. No function rooms in the hotel. For Saturday night, we will arrange to have the diner on Saturday Night at a local restaurant, pay as you go. The Chase Associate will still have to charge a registration fee, to cover some expenses, mainly to purchase a wreath for a small ceremony at Curtis Bay Shipyards for our six lost shipmates, and to pay for the picnic lunch that has been arranged at our visit to Curtis Bay CG Yards.
I will advise Admiral Thaddeus Allen, our guest of honor, and cancel his appearance. If a Reunion is held it must be on a shoestring budget, as we still will need some funds to make this happen. If we must go to the worst case scenario and cancel the event, it is very probable the Chase Association will lose its seed money used for deposits for the hotel and catering services.
One more topic, as you now the City of Baltimore has gone through some public unrest the past week. Much of the city as of this date remains in a curfew, and the western part of the city has some serious damage inflected by protesters. I talked to the Chamber of Commerce, Police Department, Coast Guard, and the Mayor’s Office today. All stated not to cancel from Baltimore, they all believe this will be well behind them come August, and the city will be very safe in the area we are. So I just wanted to report that to you, just in case you have concerns. I have no concerns, as the Inner Harbor area is very safe, and would not be affected, most of the trouble is many miles away in the North West section of the city.
We understand this have been a very hard winter for many, and of course the economy remains sluggish, and many are on fixed incomes, but this is a special event that took a lot of coordination, planning, and dedication for this reunion.
I am very disappointed with the response and registration at this point, but I still remain very optimistic, and understanding, I hope that we can turn this around in the next month and on June 1st, I will be able to have a more optimistic report on the reunion activities. The Chase Reunion Planning committee plans to meet this coming weekend to discuss the current state, and if needed an alternate plan providing we do not meet the goal of have a total of 100 people (including spouses) to meet the minimal requirements of the catering service and other planned activities. As of now I have stopped all planning and solicitations for contributions, and I fear many of the commitments I do have will not be honored based on today’s results of paid attendance.
I am appealing to the Chase crews to support this event, if you cannot make it, a donation would help regardless of what type of reunion we have, but your support is needed if we are to meet in Baltimore this August. As always I am open to your input, as this is your event, as we are just trying to make it an enjoyable one for you.
Thank you.
Regards,
A. Collin “MAC” Donald
President, Chase Association
Update #1 for 2015
To all of you CHASErs and your families want to wish a very Happy Prosperous and Healthy New Year, full of good times and happy memories for 2015.
As we enter the year of the reunion I hope that you will be joining us and be part of making many new memories, especially during August of 2015. I have always found the reunions in the past that I have attended to be one that I often think about, and still enjoy years after I have attended. Each one of my shipmates that I served with on the CHASE mean something to me. When I attend these reunions we spend hours talking about our days on board the ship, our many different shipmates both at the reunion, those unable to attend the reunion, and especially those who have crossed the bar. We have spent hours laughing and reminiscing over a time of our life that just seemed to be much less complicated then today’s life, and for some reason, bring back these memories help with facing our day to day challenges that we face today. I guess by reliving the past for such a brief period restores much of the faith we have knowing that we have shipmates, that we may only see once with two or three years, but know each of us for who we are and we share so many common experiences. Its nice to know in today’s world that we have people who still care for us and we all remember we have the same roots.
Enough said of the benefits of the reunion Since the holidays are now recent memories, its time to start to plan for future memories. So you are now starting to plan for summer events, I hope the Reunion is one of the events, of not the event you will attend.
Now this is where I talk about the sense of urgency, and need you to understand that we need your help to bring the reunion from the planning phase to the reality stage. So its how I am asking you to please register for the upcoming USCGC CHASE Reunion to be held in August as soon as possible.
The CHASE Association is asking you for your assistance to turn the corner bringing the reunion from the planning stage to reality, we need your support now. As you know the CHASE Association does not have funding source as we have choose not to implement dues. We have no income source, we have really no bank account, what we do have is membership, that are made up of shipmates. So this comes down to simple economics, in order for us to bring the reunion to the next step, that will provide you a weekend of new memories we need your immediate support in the form of you committing to attend this event, and if you cannot attend could you consider a donation to help us make this an event for your shipmates. We are asking for all our shipmates who are planning to attend this event to please make your hotel reservations but most of all please send Peter you registrations fees.
The planning has been finished, all approvals are in place, the hotel has been chosen, the venue and schedule has been planned the Coast Guard has open their doors to us, our guests have been invited, and the CHASE Association is under a contract schedule, starting in January to pay every two months, until August, a portion of the catering services, rental for hotel facilities, and the Coast Guard Commissary payments for reunions costs. The CHASE Association has already paid hundreds of dollars and the bank is about dry, a position we do not like, but is necessary to plan such events for our shipmates. We need you to step up and help us out now, after all this event was planned for you and everything that has been done so far has been done to make your weekend enjoyable and remember able. Do we want to lose all that has been planned? We are now looking toward each of our CHASE shipmates to assure we can meet our obligations in the planning your reunion. Remember this is your event, and it’s your shipmates event, it’s our event, and we need your support now. Please call and make your hotel reservations, and send out a check for registration today. We need your support to make this entire week-end happen. If you cannot attend, please consider a donation, this will help us out so much, each penny is being put into maximum use for this event. Help all of us share memories.
Thank you,
A. Collin MacDonald,
President
To all of you CHASErs and your families want to wish a very Happy Prosperous and Healthy New Year, full of good times and happy memories for 2015.
As we enter the year of the reunion I hope that you will be joining us and be part of making many new memories, especially during August of 2015. I have always found the reunions in the past that I have attended to be one that I often think about, and still enjoy years after I have attended. Each one of my shipmates that I served with on the CHASE mean something to me. When I attend these reunions we spend hours talking about our days on board the ship, our many different shipmates both at the reunion, those unable to attend the reunion, and especially those who have crossed the bar. We have spent hours laughing and reminiscing over a time of our life that just seemed to be much less complicated then today’s life, and for some reason, bring back these memories help with facing our day to day challenges that we face today. I guess by reliving the past for such a brief period restores much of the faith we have knowing that we have shipmates, that we may only see once with two or three years, but know each of us for who we are and we share so many common experiences. Its nice to know in today’s world that we have people who still care for us and we all remember we have the same roots.
Enough said of the benefits of the reunion Since the holidays are now recent memories, its time to start to plan for future memories. So you are now starting to plan for summer events, I hope the Reunion is one of the events, of not the event you will attend.
Now this is where I talk about the sense of urgency, and need you to understand that we need your help to bring the reunion from the planning phase to the reality stage. So its how I am asking you to please register for the upcoming USCGC CHASE Reunion to be held in August as soon as possible.
The CHASE Association is asking you for your assistance to turn the corner bringing the reunion from the planning stage to reality, we need your support now. As you know the CHASE Association does not have funding source as we have choose not to implement dues. We have no income source, we have really no bank account, what we do have is membership, that are made up of shipmates. So this comes down to simple economics, in order for us to bring the reunion to the next step, that will provide you a weekend of new memories we need your immediate support in the form of you committing to attend this event, and if you cannot attend could you consider a donation to help us make this an event for your shipmates. We are asking for all our shipmates who are planning to attend this event to please make your hotel reservations but most of all please send Peter you registrations fees.
The planning has been finished, all approvals are in place, the hotel has been chosen, the venue and schedule has been planned the Coast Guard has open their doors to us, our guests have been invited, and the CHASE Association is under a contract schedule, starting in January to pay every two months, until August, a portion of the catering services, rental for hotel facilities, and the Coast Guard Commissary payments for reunions costs. The CHASE Association has already paid hundreds of dollars and the bank is about dry, a position we do not like, but is necessary to plan such events for our shipmates. We need you to step up and help us out now, after all this event was planned for you and everything that has been done so far has been done to make your weekend enjoyable and remember able. Do we want to lose all that has been planned? We are now looking toward each of our CHASE shipmates to assure we can meet our obligations in the planning your reunion. Remember this is your event, and it’s your shipmates event, it’s our event, and we need your support now. Please call and make your hotel reservations, and send out a check for registration today. We need your support to make this entire week-end happen. If you cannot attend, please consider a donation, this will help us out so much, each penny is being put into maximum use for this event. Help all of us share memories.
Thank you,
A. Collin MacDonald,
President
Reunion Details
Date: Friday 14th – Sunday 16th August 2015
Place: Baltimore, Maryland (Inner Harbor)
Event Cost: $135.00 per person for Reunion.
(Additional cost) $15.00 per person for Saturday Picnic Lunch at Curtis Bay CG Yard and one lottery entry for tour through Operations Center, CG Sector 5. Parking at hotel is not included; a discount rate is under negotiation.
Event Hotel: Brookshire Suites, 120 East Lombard Street. Baltimore, MD 21202
410 625-1300
http://www.brookshiresuites.com/
Cost of Hotel stay is not included in the Reunion event fee.
However, special rates and blocks of rooms have been reserved specifically for the Chase Reunion at the Brookshire Suites. Each person is responsible to make their own reservations and the pay the cost of their hotel stay. Price is $139.00/(plus 9.5% local room tax plus 6% state sales taxes) per night plus local and state taxes, minimum of two nights, Friday and Saturday. If you wish to arrive and stay later please let me know and I will work with the hotel to get you the same fee for either Thursday or Sunday. These rooms are limited, so I suggest you make your reservation immediately.
The Hotel is located only a block from the Inner Harbor and the permanent berthing area of the USCGC Taney, and several other historical ships. The Inner Harbor is full of opportunities to shop, with many pubs, and restaurants in the immediate area. Telephone number for reservations (410) 625 1300
For several reasons, this year we would like to hold this event as close as possible to USCG Headquarters, as you know the Chase Association has been lobbying rather aggressively for a new Cutter to once again carry the name of “Chase”. Having it close to Washington allows us to invite some of the USCG Staff who choose the names of all future cutters to be part of our reunion, demonstrating to them the spirit and loyalty of the Cutter Chase lives on and its our crews who make the ship come alive. Another reason is of a much more solemn nature. In the spring of 1971, the USCGC Chase just arrived at the Curtis Bay Yards to undergo a major overhaul. Shortly after the Chase arrived, six of our shipmates were killed in a horrific automobile accident while returning from liberty. One of the events planned is a trip on Saturday to the USCG Curtis Bay Shipyard during this time, we will pay homage by having a very small Remembrance Ceremony for these six shipmates. Working with USCG Sector 5, a Coast Guard Honor Guard, a Chaplain, and wreath laying will take place at the appropriate place on the base used for these types of ceremonies.
I hope that all shipmates from all generations will attend this event to prove to the USCG a future cutter is well worthy to be named “Chase”. It is going to be our spirit and commitment to each other that demonstrates to the Coast Guard, it’s the crews that are the lifeblood of the Cutters, and Chase deserves to be re-commissioned once again, please come and join us next year. Below are some of the specifics of the event, as of now. As the planning does continue, the prices and major events have been secured and the event is on. Please if you cannot attend, donations for this event would be well appreciated, as this event will be costly, and every possible attempt is being made to keep the costs to a minimum but not sacrificing the quality of this event. All checks should made out to the “Chase Association” and mailed to Peter Levine as shown on the reservation form.
Reunion Events:
One advantage of hosting the event in Baltimore is the proximity to the Inner Harbor, USCG Curtis Bay Shipyard, and USCG Headquarters. This allows us to diversify many of the reunion events providing you to experience many different facets of the Coast Guard. This will provide the Chase Association the platform to showcase the loyalty, commitment, and spirit of the Chase’s crews. This has many other benefits such as being able to visit the Inner Harbor and tour the USCGC Taney, located only a short block away from the event hotel This allows us to have a special guest, Retired Admiral Thaddeus Allen who has agreed to attend our Saturday Evening Banquet. Now you can have the unique opportunity to meet and talk to this Coast Guard icon, who has the respect of our entire CG Community and our country.
Below is a list of the Reunion schedule of events and times:
Friday:
3:00-6:30 PM - Event Registration opens at 3:00 in Brookshire Suites Lobby.
You will received event information, meal tickets, and other specific information about the Reunion.
7:00-11:00 PM - Friday Night Reunion Kick Off, to be held in hotel function room.
Light refreshments will be served. This hotel does not have a bar, however we will provide wine and beer, with hors-d-oeuvres. Come and re-acquant yourself with your fellow shipmates. Colors will be presented, the Pledge of Alligence, and a welcoming will be done at this time. Working to get a local VFW to provide a color guard. At 8:00 PM a Coast Guard Historian, from CG Headquarates will do a short photographic presentation of the Revenue Cutter of the original Chase’s of the past, and their crews and many documents. Many never before seen photos of the original Chases and Crews along with many letters and other official manuscripts will be presented. The Historian will stay after the presentation so you can talk to her about the history of the Chase.
Saturday (Day):
8:30AM – 2:30 PM – Daytrip to US Coast Guard Curtis Bay Shipyards – We will meet in the hotel lobby and carpool to US Coast Guard Curtis Bay Shipyards, for a tour, remembrance ceremony, picnic lunch, shopping in CG Exchange, and operations permitting a Helicopter air/sea rescue demonstration. The picnic lunch is an additional cost of $15.00 per person and menu will be published at later date, it will be barbeque pulled pork and all the fixings. The US Coast Guard Commissary will cater this lunch in the picnic grounds of the base. Please include the cost of this meal when you make your check out for the event registration fee. A special lottery will be down for all people who purchase this lunch for a special “VIP” type tour through the Operations Center of Sector 5, only 24 people will be able to go on this tour. Special arrangements have been made with the base exchange for you to purchase CG items (t-shirts, hats etc.) and of course we will have a special ceremony to commemorate the six lost Coast Guardsman of 1971 and all the other crewmember who have passed the bar. Will depart the Shipyard at 2:30 PM, for a short ride back to the hotel, and allow you some free time to visit the Inner Harbor before the Reunion Banquet.
For those who choose not to attend the tour to Curtis Bay Shipyards, you are only one block from Event Hotel, to the USCGC Taney, Chesapeake Light Ship, and several other historical vessels berthed at the Inner Harbor. As a veteran you will not have to pay admission fee. I will pre-arrange with the people at this historical area to allow free admission to all those who have their event nametag. Take advantage of the shops and restaurants located at the Inner Harbor.
Saturday (Evening)
6:30 – 11:30 PM – Ship’s Reunion Banquet, in designated Brookshire Suites Function Room.
6:30 – 7:25 PM – Cocktail Hour, for your convenience a cashbar will be open, hors-d-oeuvres will be served.
7:30 PM – Presentation of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance.
7:45 PM - Welcoming and introductions of Chase Associations Guests.
8:00 PM - Grace, Toast to the USCG Chase, and crews, and those who have crossed the bar.
Meal Served.
9:15 PM - Few words from Admiral Thaddeus Allan
9:30 PM - Few words from Commander CG Sector 5
Once completed the tradition of the raffles will be done. Raffle tickets will be available all during this event. The Ship’s Store will be open all during this event.
10:00 PM - Cutting of the Ship’s Cake….
Sunday Morning is checkout day.
Additional items that we are still working on. We hope to offer vintage “CHASE” ballcaps similar to the ones originally worn by Chase crewmembers in the late 60’s and early 70’s. Also working on Reunion T-shirts and Reunion Polo Shirts.
If you have questions please email [email protected]. I need you to pay for your event registration ($135.00 per person) and if you chose the Optional CG Picnic Lunch ($15.00 per person) for total of $140.00 per person as soon as possible.
Date: Friday 14th – Sunday 16th August 2015
Place: Baltimore, Maryland (Inner Harbor)
Event Cost: $135.00 per person for Reunion.
(Additional cost) $15.00 per person for Saturday Picnic Lunch at Curtis Bay CG Yard and one lottery entry for tour through Operations Center, CG Sector 5. Parking at hotel is not included; a discount rate is under negotiation.
Event Hotel: Brookshire Suites, 120 East Lombard Street. Baltimore, MD 21202
410 625-1300
http://www.brookshiresuites.com/
Cost of Hotel stay is not included in the Reunion event fee.
However, special rates and blocks of rooms have been reserved specifically for the Chase Reunion at the Brookshire Suites. Each person is responsible to make their own reservations and the pay the cost of their hotel stay. Price is $139.00/(plus 9.5% local room tax plus 6% state sales taxes) per night plus local and state taxes, minimum of two nights, Friday and Saturday. If you wish to arrive and stay later please let me know and I will work with the hotel to get you the same fee for either Thursday or Sunday. These rooms are limited, so I suggest you make your reservation immediately.
The Hotel is located only a block from the Inner Harbor and the permanent berthing area of the USCGC Taney, and several other historical ships. The Inner Harbor is full of opportunities to shop, with many pubs, and restaurants in the immediate area. Telephone number for reservations (410) 625 1300
For several reasons, this year we would like to hold this event as close as possible to USCG Headquarters, as you know the Chase Association has been lobbying rather aggressively for a new Cutter to once again carry the name of “Chase”. Having it close to Washington allows us to invite some of the USCG Staff who choose the names of all future cutters to be part of our reunion, demonstrating to them the spirit and loyalty of the Cutter Chase lives on and its our crews who make the ship come alive. Another reason is of a much more solemn nature. In the spring of 1971, the USCGC Chase just arrived at the Curtis Bay Yards to undergo a major overhaul. Shortly after the Chase arrived, six of our shipmates were killed in a horrific automobile accident while returning from liberty. One of the events planned is a trip on Saturday to the USCG Curtis Bay Shipyard during this time, we will pay homage by having a very small Remembrance Ceremony for these six shipmates. Working with USCG Sector 5, a Coast Guard Honor Guard, a Chaplain, and wreath laying will take place at the appropriate place on the base used for these types of ceremonies.
I hope that all shipmates from all generations will attend this event to prove to the USCG a future cutter is well worthy to be named “Chase”. It is going to be our spirit and commitment to each other that demonstrates to the Coast Guard, it’s the crews that are the lifeblood of the Cutters, and Chase deserves to be re-commissioned once again, please come and join us next year. Below are some of the specifics of the event, as of now. As the planning does continue, the prices and major events have been secured and the event is on. Please if you cannot attend, donations for this event would be well appreciated, as this event will be costly, and every possible attempt is being made to keep the costs to a minimum but not sacrificing the quality of this event. All checks should made out to the “Chase Association” and mailed to Peter Levine as shown on the reservation form.
Reunion Events:
One advantage of hosting the event in Baltimore is the proximity to the Inner Harbor, USCG Curtis Bay Shipyard, and USCG Headquarters. This allows us to diversify many of the reunion events providing you to experience many different facets of the Coast Guard. This will provide the Chase Association the platform to showcase the loyalty, commitment, and spirit of the Chase’s crews. This has many other benefits such as being able to visit the Inner Harbor and tour the USCGC Taney, located only a short block away from the event hotel This allows us to have a special guest, Retired Admiral Thaddeus Allen who has agreed to attend our Saturday Evening Banquet. Now you can have the unique opportunity to meet and talk to this Coast Guard icon, who has the respect of our entire CG Community and our country.
Below is a list of the Reunion schedule of events and times:
Friday:
3:00-6:30 PM - Event Registration opens at 3:00 in Brookshire Suites Lobby.
You will received event information, meal tickets, and other specific information about the Reunion.
7:00-11:00 PM - Friday Night Reunion Kick Off, to be held in hotel function room.
Light refreshments will be served. This hotel does not have a bar, however we will provide wine and beer, with hors-d-oeuvres. Come and re-acquant yourself with your fellow shipmates. Colors will be presented, the Pledge of Alligence, and a welcoming will be done at this time. Working to get a local VFW to provide a color guard. At 8:00 PM a Coast Guard Historian, from CG Headquarates will do a short photographic presentation of the Revenue Cutter of the original Chase’s of the past, and their crews and many documents. Many never before seen photos of the original Chases and Crews along with many letters and other official manuscripts will be presented. The Historian will stay after the presentation so you can talk to her about the history of the Chase.
Saturday (Day):
8:30AM – 2:30 PM – Daytrip to US Coast Guard Curtis Bay Shipyards – We will meet in the hotel lobby and carpool to US Coast Guard Curtis Bay Shipyards, for a tour, remembrance ceremony, picnic lunch, shopping in CG Exchange, and operations permitting a Helicopter air/sea rescue demonstration. The picnic lunch is an additional cost of $15.00 per person and menu will be published at later date, it will be barbeque pulled pork and all the fixings. The US Coast Guard Commissary will cater this lunch in the picnic grounds of the base. Please include the cost of this meal when you make your check out for the event registration fee. A special lottery will be down for all people who purchase this lunch for a special “VIP” type tour through the Operations Center of Sector 5, only 24 people will be able to go on this tour. Special arrangements have been made with the base exchange for you to purchase CG items (t-shirts, hats etc.) and of course we will have a special ceremony to commemorate the six lost Coast Guardsman of 1971 and all the other crewmember who have passed the bar. Will depart the Shipyard at 2:30 PM, for a short ride back to the hotel, and allow you some free time to visit the Inner Harbor before the Reunion Banquet.
For those who choose not to attend the tour to Curtis Bay Shipyards, you are only one block from Event Hotel, to the USCGC Taney, Chesapeake Light Ship, and several other historical vessels berthed at the Inner Harbor. As a veteran you will not have to pay admission fee. I will pre-arrange with the people at this historical area to allow free admission to all those who have their event nametag. Take advantage of the shops and restaurants located at the Inner Harbor.
Saturday (Evening)
6:30 – 11:30 PM – Ship’s Reunion Banquet, in designated Brookshire Suites Function Room.
6:30 – 7:25 PM – Cocktail Hour, for your convenience a cashbar will be open, hors-d-oeuvres will be served.
7:30 PM – Presentation of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance.
7:45 PM - Welcoming and introductions of Chase Associations Guests.
8:00 PM - Grace, Toast to the USCG Chase, and crews, and those who have crossed the bar.
Meal Served.
9:15 PM - Few words from Admiral Thaddeus Allan
9:30 PM - Few words from Commander CG Sector 5
Once completed the tradition of the raffles will be done. Raffle tickets will be available all during this event. The Ship’s Store will be open all during this event.
10:00 PM - Cutting of the Ship’s Cake….
Sunday Morning is checkout day.
Additional items that we are still working on. We hope to offer vintage “CHASE” ballcaps similar to the ones originally worn by Chase crewmembers in the late 60’s and early 70’s. Also working on Reunion T-shirts and Reunion Polo Shirts.
If you have questions please email [email protected]. I need you to pay for your event registration ($135.00 per person) and if you chose the Optional CG Picnic Lunch ($15.00 per person) for total of $140.00 per person as soon as possible.
Print out this form below (preview your print first to ensure that the full "photo" document is framed), fill it out, and then mail it in with your check. Please do not mail in all the pages with the schedule and details - those are for you to keep. And, remember.... The sooner you get yours in, the sooner your place is reserved! See you there.
Banquet Menu
Passed Hors D’ Oeuvres
Bacon Twists
Brown Sugar-accented Applewood Bacon
Baked around a Crispy Grissini
Burger and Fry Slider
Petite Angus Meatball Burger topped with Cheese, Caramelized Onions and a Cherry Tomato Slice
Served on a Hand-Cut Waffle Fry
Fried Macaroni & Cheese
Crispy Macaroni & Cheese with Tomato-Basil Cream Sauce
Mediterranean Skewer
Fresh Mozzarella, Zucchini, Red Pepper, Grape Tomato, & Kalamata Olive
Finished with Balsamic Glaze
Chicken Satay
Sesame-Soy Glazed Chicken Skewer with Toasted Sesame Seeds
Stationary Hors D’ Oeuvres
Antipasti Mosaic
Balsamic-Grilled Portabella Mushrooms, Roasted Red Peppers, Grilled Zucchini
Roma Tomatoes, Basil-Marinated Mozzarella, Roasted Carrots, Marinated Avocado
Roasted Beets with Goat's Cheese, Grilled Artichoke Hearts, Mixed Greek Olives
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus and Extra Sharp Provolone & Salami Roulades
SALAD COURSE
Summer Salad
Mixed Greens with Fresh Blueberries tossed in a Lemon Vinaigrette
Topped with Crumbled Goat Cheese and Seasoned Toast Points
DINNER
Maryland Lump Crab Cake
Jumbo Lump Maryland Crab Cake with House Remoulade
And
Chicken Francaise
Tender Chicken Scaloppini sautéed in White Wine & Lemon Sauce
Accompanied By:
Haricot Verts
French Green Beans Sautéed with Shallots & Garlic
And
Fingerling Potatoes
Petit Buttery Potatoes with Fresh Rosemary, Sea Salt, Crushed Garlic & Olive Oil
Dessert
Milk and Cookie Bar
An Assortment of House Made Cookies paired with Ice Cold Milk
And
Celebratory Cake
Mindy
"It is with deep regrets that I inform you of the passing of Rodney Young's wife, Mindy. Rodney is a founding member of the Association. Those of you that have met Mindy at Chase Association functions know what a wonderful person she was. She will be dearly missed by the Chase Association Family."
Woody
Woody
2013 REUNION WRAP-UP
During August 2nd – 4th, 2013, about 30 Chase shipmates from all eras together with family and friends bringing the total to about 50 attended the USCGC Chase Association’s sixth biennial reunion (our 10th Anniversary) at the Exeter Inn, Exeter, New Hampshire approximately 15 miles from the newest Coast Guard City, Newburyport, MA. The Chasers and guests started arriving Friday afternoon under clear skies and after checking in with our President Pete Levine began to gather in and around the lobby awaiting the arrival of more attendees and watching the clock because at 14:00 the group would relocate to Chaser Jerry Hill’s house about a quarter mile up the street for the official meet and greet cookout. I should mention that Jerry, his wife Alice and his kids Jeffery and Arlene volunteered to host a cookout this year to make our 10th Anniversary a special one. As the event shifted over to Jerry’s, the Hill family really went all out to provide a relaxed atmosphere, great food and an awesome cake that included an edible photo of the Chase. Jerry even offered rides around the neighborhood in the family’s antique Ford Model T “Nellie”. The camaraderie abounded as everyone had a great time and it was good to see some new faces joining the regulars this year. Actually, a little piece of the ship was with us as I, “Woody,” brought her ribbon board display that was donated to us following the decommissioning. It was obviously a point of pride for every Chaser in attendance. I also opened the ships store and it was pretty much cleaned out.
Friday BBQ
The cookout wrapped up about 20:00 and the Chasers worked their way back to the Inn. Some of the crew actually walked back due to the close proximity. The camaraderie continued throughout the evening as a few of us sat at the bar for a cocktail or gathered in the adjoining lounge area to chat. The gathering finally broke up shortly after midnight as we were all pretty much pooped, but anxious to start another day of activities.
Saturday morning started out with a forecast for sunny skies and temps in the lower 80’s. The Chasers could be found in the dining area enjoying a well stocked buffet breakfast and gulping down cups of coffee to get our day off to a great start. The first item on the agenda was to gather in our meeting / banquet room for the business meeting at 09:00. Pete lead us in a variety of discussions from electing new officers, planning the next reunion, charting a direction for the Association as we start our 11th year, and also arranging car pools to take us to Station Merrimack for our planned tour starting at 13:00. Following the business meeting the Chasers were dismissed to enjoy a bit of free time and many of us took the short walk into Exeter to see what this quaint Mill town not far from the Seacoast has to offer. Exeter has a rich history that dates back to 1638 when it was founded, over 130 years before the American Revolution! Many areas of the town are significant to both New Hampshire and American History. The main drag, called Water Street, was lined with various shops offering such things as apparel, foodie items, antiques and everyone’s favorite, chocolate, found at the Exeter Chocolatier.
Saturday morning started out with a forecast for sunny skies and temps in the lower 80’s. The Chasers could be found in the dining area enjoying a well stocked buffet breakfast and gulping down cups of coffee to get our day off to a great start. The first item on the agenda was to gather in our meeting / banquet room for the business meeting at 09:00. Pete lead us in a variety of discussions from electing new officers, planning the next reunion, charting a direction for the Association as we start our 11th year, and also arranging car pools to take us to Station Merrimack for our planned tour starting at 13:00. Following the business meeting the Chasers were dismissed to enjoy a bit of free time and many of us took the short walk into Exeter to see what this quaint Mill town not far from the Seacoast has to offer. Exeter has a rich history that dates back to 1638 when it was founded, over 130 years before the American Revolution! Many areas of the town are significant to both New Hampshire and American History. The main drag, called Water Street, was lined with various shops offering such things as apparel, foodie items, antiques and everyone’s favorite, chocolate, found at the Exeter Chocolatier.
Saturday
Nearby Newburyport, MA ,was holding their annual Yankee Homecoming so there was plenty to see and do for a few hours.
OK, it was now about noon and this brings us around to the field trip to US Coast Guard Station Merrimack River. The Chasers gathered together in the Inn’s parking lot to form car pools and soon we were underway on the half hour ride. Captain Perkins, USCG Ret., (Brian to us now) had made prior arrangements for our tour and we were ready. Brian is the next to last Skipper of the Chase so we were mighty proud to have him with us. Merrimack River is a small search and rescue (SAR) boat station with a Master Chief at the helm, their leader and boss. They have various small boats dockside including what I think is a 25 or 27 footer and a 47 foot motor lifeboat (MLB) the workhorse of SAR. We were greeted at the front Gate by a young Coastie who welcomed us aboard and led us through the main building. Along the way we saw their Messdeck, Operations room, History area, and gear locker where they suit up for the mission at hand.
It seemed like a nice homey place that any Coasty would be happy to be assigned to.
OK, it was now about noon and this brings us around to the field trip to US Coast Guard Station Merrimack River. The Chasers gathered together in the Inn’s parking lot to form car pools and soon we were underway on the half hour ride. Captain Perkins, USCG Ret., (Brian to us now) had made prior arrangements for our tour and we were ready. Brian is the next to last Skipper of the Chase so we were mighty proud to have him with us. Merrimack River is a small search and rescue (SAR) boat station with a Master Chief at the helm, their leader and boss. They have various small boats dockside including what I think is a 25 or 27 footer and a 47 foot motor lifeboat (MLB) the workhorse of SAR. We were greeted at the front Gate by a young Coastie who welcomed us aboard and led us through the main building. Along the way we saw their Messdeck, Operations room, History area, and gear locker where they suit up for the mission at hand.
It seemed like a nice homey place that any Coasty would be happy to be assigned to.
Station Merrimack
Following the building tour we all went outside to the docks to see where the Coasties get underway to do what Coasties do best, “Save Lives. Just as we were heading to the docks a SAR training mission got underway and we stood by as 3 Coasties took out the 27 footer. As we filed down the gangway toward the boats it became apparent that we were on floating docks. Many of us had a momentary feeling of being seasick and some even turned around to go back on dry land (hard to believe that shipboard life didn’t bother us at all back in the day). Our boat tour began with an informational talk about the 47 foot MLB and what it can do, followed by an invitation to come aboard. Once on board we were shown around above and below as some of the finer points of a MLB were described. We were very impressed and felt that these young Coasties were “always ready” to do what was required to keep us safe and to save lives.
Op Brief
As we departed the docks, we gathered for a group photo session in front of the boat house / repair facility building where they have a boat sling parked to lift and transport the smaller boats.
Following the Station tour the Chasers enjoyed more free time, a bit of R&R, and prepared for the official banquet to take place in the evening.
Following the Station tour the Chasers enjoyed more free time, a bit of R&R, and prepared for the official banquet to take place in the evening.
Evening: Missing Man for CHASERs Who Have Crossed Over
The Saturday evening Banquet began at 18:00 with some opening words from sitting President Pete Levine followed by the Missing Man / Women Ceremony to remember the Chasers that have Crossed the Bar since our last reunion and our POW’s and MIA’s. Dinner was served shortly after and was either Sirloin or Haddock depending on what each attendee chose. I can only speak for myself when I say it was one of the best steaks that I have ever had. The chatter in the room confirmed that the fish was also very good.
Dinner and Fun
After desert was served, Woody read the Chaser news of the past 2 years followed by two DVD shows. First was: The Chase Decommissioning Tribute - made by her final crew. Second: The 43 years of Chase - photos of the ship put together by Chaser Rodney Young. Once again the mic. was turned over to Pete who asked for nominations and or volunteers to relieve the watch of our President, VP, Secretary and Treasurer. It had been 10 years since the executive board was relieved and we were pleased to see some volunteers step forward. A. Collin MacDonald (Mac) said he would take the President slot and Doug Ward took the VP. Pete said that he had talked to Phil Stone and that Phil would stay on as treasurer. The Secretary slot had no takers and after a unanimous confirmation vote of aye we had fresh new leaders. Mac stepped to the podium and gave us an insightful speech about his vision for the future and his fresh ideas and enthusiasm made it clear that we had elected the right Chaser for the job. Mac also said that he would work on getting us a Secretary and also work with Doug and Phil to make a seamless transition.
A Model Sailor
Before I forget, newly elected VP Doug Ward brought his awesome 2 foot model of the Chase mounted in a beautiful display case with him, and it was on display for the Chasers to enjoy throughout the evening.
It was now time for the fundraising raffles and this year we had a table full of Chase and Coast Guard items that the Chasers brought to donate. The first raffle was for the table items and as the crew lined up to buy raffle tickets a sense of anticipation started to grow as to who would win what.
Following the table items raffle, tickets were sold for the special Chase Puzzles raffle. The puzzles (1 B&W and 2 color) were donated by Chasers Jerry and Alice Hill. Jerry had them made by a local company that offer such items and I want to note that one puzzle made from a B&W photo of Chase taken during the Vietnam cruise and signed by then Skipper Wayne Caldwell was donated and mailed to Wayne’s family. Wayne crossed the bar a few years ago but not before knowing that a grandson had been named “Chase” to honor him. The final raffle was the 50 / 50. This reunion’s raffles were a huge success thanks to the generosity of all those that bought tickets. Those funds together with ships store sales mean we should now have sufficient funds to help Mac and the membership at large continue to build on the past and take the world class USCGC Chase Association well into the future. The banquet wrapped up about 23:30 and the Chasers retired for the evening but not before a few of the crew (not wanting it to end) moved to the bar and lounge area for a nightcap and a last sea story or two.
It was now time for the fundraising raffles and this year we had a table full of Chase and Coast Guard items that the Chasers brought to donate. The first raffle was for the table items and as the crew lined up to buy raffle tickets a sense of anticipation started to grow as to who would win what.
Following the table items raffle, tickets were sold for the special Chase Puzzles raffle. The puzzles (1 B&W and 2 color) were donated by Chasers Jerry and Alice Hill. Jerry had them made by a local company that offer such items and I want to note that one puzzle made from a B&W photo of Chase taken during the Vietnam cruise and signed by then Skipper Wayne Caldwell was donated and mailed to Wayne’s family. Wayne crossed the bar a few years ago but not before knowing that a grandson had been named “Chase” to honor him. The final raffle was the 50 / 50. This reunion’s raffles were a huge success thanks to the generosity of all those that bought tickets. Those funds together with ships store sales mean we should now have sufficient funds to help Mac and the membership at large continue to build on the past and take the world class USCGC Chase Association well into the future. The banquet wrapped up about 23:30 and the Chasers retired for the evening but not before a few of the crew (not wanting it to end) moved to the bar and lounge area for a nightcap and a last sea story or two.
Sunday
The final event of the weekend was for the Chasers to march on Sunday, August 4th, Coast Guard Day, at noon in the Yankee Homecoming Parade in Newburyport, MA. Prior arrangements had been made for some Chasers to march with our reunion banner followed by a few vehicles for those that could not walk the 3 mile parade route. A show of hands was called for Saturday at the banquet and it was disappointing to see that the numbers were light, but understandably many had traveled quite a distance to attend and needed to get back home or catch a flight. The parade was great fun under partly sunny skies and as we walked the route there was much applause and many a thank you as we passed by the crowds lining the street. Occasionally a Coastie was spotted and a hand shake offered. Jerry drove the Model T (Nellie) to lead the vehicles. Each had a large laminated copy of the Chase Assoc. crest on each door, and Nellie had a sign on her convertible top boot that read “Once a Chaser, Always a Chaser”. We were met about half way by a Coast Guard PA person in uniform that took photos of our proud group. We’re not sure where it will pop up but we hope that it will help bring in more Coasties that sailed aboard the best Cutter ever, The Coast Guard Cutter Chase.
Too Much Fun
In closing we would like to thank everyone that attended for making our 10th Anniversary reunion a very special one. Judging from the amount of smiles, hugs and handshakes that I saw it just may have been our best reunion yet.
Let’s see if we can top it in 2015.
Photos courtesy of Chasers Christopher Wood (Woody) and Rodney Young.
Once a Chaser, Always a Chaser, See you all in 2015!, Woody
Let’s see if we can top it in 2015.
Photos courtesy of Chasers Christopher Wood (Woody) and Rodney Young.
Once a Chaser, Always a Chaser, See you all in 2015!, Woody
2013 Cutter Chase Assoc. Reunion Itinerary
FRIDAY August 2nd
Cutter Chase Reunion Check in, see Pete Levine
1200 - 1600 Exeter Inn,
1600 – 2000 Jerry Hill’s house
1600-2000
Meet and Greet Barbecue, Jerry Hill’s house, Ships store open
SATURDAY August 3rd
0900-1000
Association Biennial Meeting
In the Function Room, followed by Free Time
1300-1500
Merrimac Coast Guard Station Tour
(Organize car pools to the Station before hand as parking is limited)
1500-1800
Free Time
Following the Station tour continue to join in on all the festivities going on during Yankee home coming week.
1800-2200 In the Dining room
Missing man / women Ceremony,
Dinner-Raffles-Speeches
News, Group photo, DVD’s Ships store open
2200
Closing Remarks
SUNDAY August 4th
Yankee home coming Parade in “Coast Guard City” Newburyport, MA
Leave Exeter at 0930, staging at 10:00 parade at 1200. Parking: See Jerry
Chasers Depart, See you all again in 2015
NIGERIAN NAVY: NNS THUNDER (F90) INTERCEPTS OVER 200 OIL VESSELS IN ANTI-BUNKERING OPERATIONS IN 2012
DAILY SUN
August 31, 2012
Port Harcourt
No fewer than 200 vessels allegedly used in illegal oil bunkering have been arrested in the last nine months by the Nigerian Navy in the Niger Delta region.
This was disclosed by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Olufemi Ogunjimi, while inspecting the readiness of ships and establishments for the biannual inspection of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim at Onne, near Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Ogunjimi stated that since the arrival of NNS Thunder nine months ago, the vessel had arrested over 200 vessels suspected to have been involved in illegal oil bunkering in the region. He added that out of the figure, about eight of the vessels were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution.
The FOC, who addressed officers and men on board NNS Thunder, after assessing two other vessels, NNS Kyanwa and NNS Ologbo, at Onne, said naval personnel would continue to fight oil theft in the Niger Delta region. He expressed delight that with the arrival of NNS Thunder, there has been an improvement in the fight against illegal oil activities on the territorial waterways. Ogunjimi added that recently, a wooden boat carrying about 150 drums of illegally refined petroleum products was impounded by NNS Pathfinder in Port Harcourt.
Addressing officers and men at the base, the FOC described the August 18, 2012 tragedy where an officer and two ratings of NNS Jubilee were killed, as sad. The naval boss lamented that the incident was avoidable if proper security “consciousness” was exhibited by the victims. He urged them to be security conscious, adding that the use of life jacket was for their good.
“Whether you know how to swim or not, you should always use life jacket,” he said, advising that they should improve their swimming ability. He, however, expressed satisfaction with what he saw during his assessment tour, which he started on Monday, having earlier visited Cross River and Akwa Ibom
States.
Note: This article located by Woody. Glad to see ex-CHASE is doing better after its poor start and collision.
August 31, 2012
Port Harcourt
No fewer than 200 vessels allegedly used in illegal oil bunkering have been arrested in the last nine months by the Nigerian Navy in the Niger Delta region.
This was disclosed by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Olufemi Ogunjimi, while inspecting the readiness of ships and establishments for the biannual inspection of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim at Onne, near Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Ogunjimi stated that since the arrival of NNS Thunder nine months ago, the vessel had arrested over 200 vessels suspected to have been involved in illegal oil bunkering in the region. He added that out of the figure, about eight of the vessels were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution.
The FOC, who addressed officers and men on board NNS Thunder, after assessing two other vessels, NNS Kyanwa and NNS Ologbo, at Onne, said naval personnel would continue to fight oil theft in the Niger Delta region. He expressed delight that with the arrival of NNS Thunder, there has been an improvement in the fight against illegal oil activities on the territorial waterways. Ogunjimi added that recently, a wooden boat carrying about 150 drums of illegally refined petroleum products was impounded by NNS Pathfinder in Port Harcourt.
Addressing officers and men at the base, the FOC described the August 18, 2012 tragedy where an officer and two ratings of NNS Jubilee were killed, as sad. The naval boss lamented that the incident was avoidable if proper security “consciousness” was exhibited by the victims. He urged them to be security conscious, adding that the use of life jacket was for their good.
“Whether you know how to swim or not, you should always use life jacket,” he said, advising that they should improve their swimming ability. He, however, expressed satisfaction with what he saw during his assessment tour, which he started on Monday, having earlier visited Cross River and Akwa Ibom
States.
Note: This article located by Woody. Glad to see ex-CHASE is doing better after its poor start and collision.
Ray Houttekier Memorial Service
It is with deep regrets that Woody informed us that our shipmate and friend (VN Crew Ops Officer) Ray Houttekier crossed the bar on July 26th.
A Memorial Service was held for Ray on Coast Guard Day, August 4, 2012 at St. Peter's in the Woods Episcopal Church in Fairfax Station, Virginia. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Ray had three loves: the Coast Guard, his church, and his family. He died at home surrounded by members of his family after a long bout with transverse myelitis which paralyzed him at the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4). He spent many weeks in various hospitals and rehabilitation centers. He fought a magnificent fight and his family is happy that he is with the Lord and freed from earthly pain. The family is also grateful for the prayers, visits, and cards received from his Coast Guard family.
A Memorial Service was held for Ray on Coast Guard Day, August 4, 2012 at St. Peter's in the Woods Episcopal Church in Fairfax Station, Virginia. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Ray had three loves: the Coast Guard, his church, and his family. He died at home surrounded by members of his family after a long bout with transverse myelitis which paralyzed him at the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4). He spent many weeks in various hospitals and rehabilitation centers. He fought a magnificent fight and his family is happy that he is with the Lord and freed from earthly pain. The family is also grateful for the prayers, visits, and cards received from his Coast Guard family.
Master Chief Parritt
This one came to us late, but can now be shared with All Hands.
STEUBEN Maine —Master Chief Boatswains Mate Leslie C. Parritt Jr. USCG Ret. Crossed the Bar Feb. 10, 2012, with his family by his side, on his 76th birthday. Les was born Feb. 10, 1936.
He enlisted in the Unites States Coast Guard in March of 1956 after serving 26 years of almost entirely sea duty. He retired in 1982 as master chief of the Point Hannon in Jonesport. He served on nine cutters, some of which were the Chase, Cowslip, Flaggstaff, Barataria and Snohomish as well as the Point Hannon he retired on. Some ports of call were Gibraltar, Japan, Singapore and the Arctic Circle. He is a cherished member of the USCGC Chase Association. He served two years in Vietnam and upon retiring had the following military awards: Vietnam Service Medal W/4 Bronze Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/Device, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross), six Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Expert Pistol Medal and Expert Rifle Medal. His passion was traveling the world and the United States. He loved Labrador, Newfoundland and the warmer climates of Arizona, New Mexico and Florida. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and riding in his truck with his dog.
He is survived by 2 daughters a sister and brother 4 grandchildren 2 great-grandsons nieces and nephews. He is now reunited with his best friend and beloved canine companion of 16 years, “Toby,” the very best dog ever.
At Les’s request there was no public service. A private committal with friends and family took place in the spring. Donations in Les’s memory can be made to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, the Ark Animal Shelter, Cherryfield, where Toby was adopted, or the Bangor Homeless Shelter, Bangor.
STEUBEN Maine —Master Chief Boatswains Mate Leslie C. Parritt Jr. USCG Ret. Crossed the Bar Feb. 10, 2012, with his family by his side, on his 76th birthday. Les was born Feb. 10, 1936.
He enlisted in the Unites States Coast Guard in March of 1956 after serving 26 years of almost entirely sea duty. He retired in 1982 as master chief of the Point Hannon in Jonesport. He served on nine cutters, some of which were the Chase, Cowslip, Flaggstaff, Barataria and Snohomish as well as the Point Hannon he retired on. Some ports of call were Gibraltar, Japan, Singapore and the Arctic Circle. He is a cherished member of the USCGC Chase Association. He served two years in Vietnam and upon retiring had the following military awards: Vietnam Service Medal W/4 Bronze Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/Device, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross), six Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Expert Pistol Medal and Expert Rifle Medal. His passion was traveling the world and the United States. He loved Labrador, Newfoundland and the warmer climates of Arizona, New Mexico and Florida. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and riding in his truck with his dog.
He is survived by 2 daughters a sister and brother 4 grandchildren 2 great-grandsons nieces and nephews. He is now reunited with his best friend and beloved canine companion of 16 years, “Toby,” the very best dog ever.
At Les’s request there was no public service. A private committal with friends and family took place in the spring. Donations in Les’s memory can be made to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, the Ark Animal Shelter, Cherryfield, where Toby was adopted, or the Bangor Homeless Shelter, Bangor.
Back to Boot Camp Event
Friday morning at 08:00 October 12, 2012 saw about 30 members of the Coast Guard Combat Veterans Association including 4 Chasers, Jerry Hill, Mike Hastings, Steven Lee and Chris Wood or Woody all from the Vietnam crew arrive at Training Center Cape May for a Back to Boot Camp event hosted by Training Center CO Captain William Kelly and his crew. Jerry and Steve were accompanied by their lovely wives Alice and Linda respectively. The day started out with breakfast served in the base Harbor View All Hands Club followed by a tour of Munro Hall which contains a comprehensive display of facts, documents and artwork about Medal of Honor recipient Signalman 1st class Douglas Munro. Within the hall areas upper decks there is also a Vietnam War time line, CGC Spencer display and other historic Coast Guard facts. At about 10:00 the group gathered in the Ida Lewis auditorium with the families of the Coasties that would graduate a bit later to watch a film and listen to a lecture about the Training Center and what the recruits must go thru during their 8 weeks to become the newest Coast Guard men and women to enter the enlisted corps. Following that very informative session the group walked a short distance over to the gymnasium for the 11:00 graduation ceremony. Although it was a sunny and mild morning it was too windy to be held on the parade field. Our group was seated in the special guest area aft of the podium that gave us a good vantage point to see the graduates. During the ceremony we were asked to stand to be recognized which brought us great pride and thunderous applause from the new Coasties and their families. It was fun to see the smiles as the newbie’s filed past finally able to join with their families. It was now time for lunch and we were allowed to join the recruits at the chow hall for a $4 meal. From time to time a recruit was getting a good tongue lashing for some reason which brought out a chuckle or two as we remembered our time at Cape May. After lunch we crossed the parade field and were brought up into the barracks where the recruits arrive by bus to become forming company. Captain Kelly and Master Chief Dawn Smith joined us and gave the basic lecture that the recruits would receive. It was good to see and hear that they were in good hands and would be made into combat ready Coasties in 8 short weeks. We were then allowed Exchange privileges to which we all shopped for those treasured items only available to active duty service people. T-Shirts, pins, patches and other assorted stuff was bought and we were happy. Just before we left I remembered that there was a street called Chase Ave. so 3 of the Chasers gathered at the sign for a photo op. Most of the group returned to the base at 18:00 for cocktails and dinner arranged by the event planners and Captain Kelly. It was a fun couple of days and always a treat when some Chasers get to hook up. Captain Kelly, Master Chief Smith and their crew really rolled out the red carpet for us. Most of the group stayed at the La Mer Beachfront Inn at Cape May who provided us a hospitality room to gather in on Thursday. Event planners were CGCVA members Terry Lee and Gary Sherman both Vietnam vets.
Photos by Alice Hill
Photos by Alice Hill
2014 WHEC 378 Reunion
Jack "J.J." O'Neil of the USCGC Sherman Association recently passed to us through Woody that people were discussing bringing in all the 378 crews to Baltimore in 2014 (late Sept.). He wondered if the the Chasers would like to join? If have an interest or would like to help, contact Woody or follow this link:
http://www.uscgcshermanassociation.com/apps/profile/95288847/
http://www.uscgcshermanassociation.com/apps/profile/95288847/
A New Cutter Named CHASE
An effort has begun to ensure that the legacy of CHASE continues. Petitioning has started to ensure that one of the new Offshore Patrol Cutters is considered to wear this proud name. If you would like to be part of that effort, contact us.
SN Alan E. Ricker
A good friend of many and shipmate of all CHASE sailors, SN Alan Ricker, crossed the bar on August 30, 2012, his battle with mesothelioma finally over.
Alan joined the United States Coast Guard in August of 1966 from Manchester, New Hampshire. He was assigned to CGC CHASE in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1968 and was one of the original crew members of CHASE, a “Plank Owner.”
Besides the general duties of a seaman Alan’s billet’s included damage control, firefighting, and gun crew for the 5"/38 gun main deck gun, the port and starboard .50 cals, and the port and starboard .30 caliber machine guns.
Alan Ricker's "Audiograms", a 2003 CD production of his tape recorded letters, gave all of us a good idea of life on a Coast Guard Cutter in Vietnam. Copies can be found with some of the older members of the CHASE Association just by asking, and a copy was placed with the Coast Guard Historian in Washington, DC.
Alan received an Honorable Discharge from the Coast Guard in July of 1970. His awards include: Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation with Bronze Star, Civil Action Medal, and the Gallantry Cross.
God's speed, shipmate. You will be missed.
Alan joined the United States Coast Guard in August of 1966 from Manchester, New Hampshire. He was assigned to CGC CHASE in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1968 and was one of the original crew members of CHASE, a “Plank Owner.”
Besides the general duties of a seaman Alan’s billet’s included damage control, firefighting, and gun crew for the 5"/38 gun main deck gun, the port and starboard .50 cals, and the port and starboard .30 caliber machine guns.
Alan Ricker's "Audiograms", a 2003 CD production of his tape recorded letters, gave all of us a good idea of life on a Coast Guard Cutter in Vietnam. Copies can be found with some of the older members of the CHASE Association just by asking, and a copy was placed with the Coast Guard Historian in Washington, DC.
Alan received an Honorable Discharge from the Coast Guard in July of 1970. His awards include: Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation with Bronze Star, Civil Action Medal, and the Gallantry Cross.
God's speed, shipmate. You will be missed.
Seeing Alan Safely Off
The three Chasers that attended Alan Ricker's service were (left to right) Jerry Hill, Robert Bibbens, and Clarence Croxall... all served on the WESTPAC Tour with Alan.
Dedication
Had to share this one Jerry sent. August 6th, 2011, Jerry Hill met Al Ricker at the Dedication Ceremony of the Coast Guard Monument at the N.H. State Veterans Cemetery. Alan is wearing his Chase hat, and both Alan and Jerry Hill are wearing their Chase Association Shirts. RDML Neptune and his Master Chief are on the right.
For the younger CHASE Association members, it may be surprising to see people who remain dedicated to a ship and a crew for over 40 years. But for those of us with more than a few miles under the keel (and maybe multiple cutters) it is not. Some ships and some crews are special. When you are a part of one, you know it. The memories run deep and so do the bonds. Some things last a lifetime and beyond. From beginning to end, CHASE was a special ship filled with people who mattered to their nation and to each other. Those who remain behind must carry the banner for those who went before. It is more than a duty,...it is a privilege. Thanks, Jerry, for sharing this one.
For the younger CHASE Association members, it may be surprising to see people who remain dedicated to a ship and a crew for over 40 years. But for those of us with more than a few miles under the keel (and maybe multiple cutters) it is not. Some ships and some crews are special. When you are a part of one, you know it. The memories run deep and so do the bonds. Some things last a lifetime and beyond. From beginning to end, CHASE was a special ship filled with people who mattered to their nation and to each other. Those who remain behind must carry the banner for those who went before. It is more than a duty,...it is a privilege. Thanks, Jerry, for sharing this one.
Amazing Model
Just received this July 16, 2012, from Woody. It comes from Chaser Doug Ward. Doug was an RD3 and came aboard following the VN cruise. Doug and his wife Barb are reunion regulars.
Take a close look. This is an amazing model.
Take a close look. This is an amazing model.
Chase Artifacts Delivered to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum - July 13th, 2011
On the morning of July 5th, 2011 a Ribbon Board, life ring, fire helmet, hose nozzle, decommissioning program, and assorted documents from the USCGC Chase WHEC 718 were finally delivered to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum (CGHM). These historic items were donated to the Chase Association following her decommissioning on March 29th, 2011 which in turn was donated to the museum. Chaser Bill Collette, president of the museum was on hand to officially accept the gifts from Chase Association representatives Christopher Wood (Woody) and Gerald Hill (Jerry). Jerry also brought along a Chase Challenge coin to donate and Woody brought along a few framed photos of Chase showing the ribbon board on her bridge wing and the life ring on her bulkhead ready to be thrown to someone in peril. I could tell that Bill was overwhelmed with pride to be receiving such prestigious artifacts from a Cutter that he once served on and he wasted no time in taking a few photos of the new items. The Museum crew has been busy rearranging things to make more room for their expanding collection and they assured us that the Chase Artifacts will soon be on display in what I believe to be one of the best private Coast Guard museums in the country. If you are ever out on Cape Cod the CGHM is a must see for any Coastie or History buff so make it a point to stop in for a look.
May 2011 - Reunion Recap
On May 4th – 7th, 2011 about 17 Chase shipmates from all eras together with family and friends bringing the total to over 23 attended the USCGC Chase Association’s fifth biennial reunion at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, Herndon, Virginia at the Dulles Airport 22 miles from Washington DC.
The Chasers and guests started arriving Wednesday afternoon under clearing skies and after checking in began to congregate in and around the hospitality room awaiting the arrival of the attendees. I want to mention that this year’s reunion was held in conjunction with the CG Combat Veterans Assoc. (CGCVA) as mentioned in our last reunions wrap-up and I can’t say enough about how well we were received and treated throughout the event. The Chasers could attend and participate in all of the CGCVA planned meetings and activities except their business meeting as a membership card would be required at the door but because many Chasers are members they too were allowed entrance. Chase Assoc. President Pete Levine was not able to lead us this time due to the untimely death of his Dad and VP Jim O’Callaghan wouldn’t arrive until Saturday’s banquet so I (Woody) filled in and was kept busy greeting guests, checking off names and round up a volunteer or 2 to help out. Treasurer Phil Stone offered to help out as needed and was kept busy with a variety of tasks especially when it came to the raffle tickets. Thanks Phil and the others for all your help.
Moving right along, the opening ceremony got underway right on time at 15:00 and surprise guest VFW National Commander Richard Eubank took to the mic to tell us the importance of keeping the membership in good order. Following the opening ceremony the Hospitality room once again became grand central station where the cold beer and adult beverage open bar was made available to all those who paid the $25 registration fee. As always it was good to once again see old friends and shipmates gather together for fun and camaraderie.
The Chasers and guests started arriving Wednesday afternoon under clearing skies and after checking in began to congregate in and around the hospitality room awaiting the arrival of the attendees. I want to mention that this year’s reunion was held in conjunction with the CG Combat Veterans Assoc. (CGCVA) as mentioned in our last reunions wrap-up and I can’t say enough about how well we were received and treated throughout the event. The Chasers could attend and participate in all of the CGCVA planned meetings and activities except their business meeting as a membership card would be required at the door but because many Chasers are members they too were allowed entrance. Chase Assoc. President Pete Levine was not able to lead us this time due to the untimely death of his Dad and VP Jim O’Callaghan wouldn’t arrive until Saturday’s banquet so I (Woody) filled in and was kept busy greeting guests, checking off names and round up a volunteer or 2 to help out. Treasurer Phil Stone offered to help out as needed and was kept busy with a variety of tasks especially when it came to the raffle tickets. Thanks Phil and the others for all your help.
Moving right along, the opening ceremony got underway right on time at 15:00 and surprise guest VFW National Commander Richard Eubank took to the mic to tell us the importance of keeping the membership in good order. Following the opening ceremony the Hospitality room once again became grand central station where the cold beer and adult beverage open bar was made available to all those who paid the $25 registration fee. As always it was good to once again see old friends and shipmates gather together for fun and camaraderie.
The Wall
On Thursday morning many of the Chasers gathered together with the other Coasties and boarded busses for the short trip into DC for the Veteran’s memorial tour and lunch and then Arlington National Cemetery and Iwo Jima memorial. The weather was sunny and mild and a great time was had by all and for many it was their first time seeing the new WWII memorial on the mall.
Thursday evening at 19:00 the Chasers gathered together in our separate meeting room where due to President Pete Levine’s absence Woody read the Chase Assoc. news of the past 2 years to get things off to a great start. Following the news the Chasers were served Pizza and soda while Treasurer Phil Stone sold raffle tickets and Woody described the prizes that were up for grabs. What made this reunion raffle unique was the fact that the Assoc. had received a box of artifacts donated by Chase following her decommissioning on 29 March, 2011 that included a DC Fire helmet, coffee mugs from the ward room, misc. Chase CO stationary items, a Challenge coin, Chase crest decals and a salty old yellow battle lantern that was fully charged and in good working condition. Other items donated for the raffle were a few decommissioning programs, some framed photographs, a nice pewter CG photo frame, and a CG belt buckle all from Chaser Al Ricker. Also donated was the large National Ensign that was flown on Chase just prior to her decommissioning? It was presented to Plank Owner and Chase’s first XO Wendell Driggers during the decomm ceremony and he in turn donated it for the raffle. Woody also donated some framed prints of Chase, a small framed CG Vietnam Squadron 3 poster and some CG Coffee mugs and the Chase Assoc. also threw in one each of our official patch, decal and coffee mug which all together provided lots of great prizes. It seems that everyone won something (Rodney won the flag) but even those that didn’t would not walk away empty handed because this reunion’s keepsake was a 4 inch round Chase Assoc Crest magnet and because of the light turnout everyone received 3 or 4 of them. Following the raffle the ships store was opened with a plentiful supply of T-Shirts, Patches, Decals and Mugs for sale. Our 2 hour gathering wrapped up with a photo shoot in front of the official Assoc. reunion Banner and Chase Artifacts (Ribbon Board and Life Ring donated to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum on Cape Cod) that Woody brought along because the Museum was still closed for the winter season. Following clean-up it was back to the hospitality room where the camaraderie continued.
Thursday evening at 19:00 the Chasers gathered together in our separate meeting room where due to President Pete Levine’s absence Woody read the Chase Assoc. news of the past 2 years to get things off to a great start. Following the news the Chasers were served Pizza and soda while Treasurer Phil Stone sold raffle tickets and Woody described the prizes that were up for grabs. What made this reunion raffle unique was the fact that the Assoc. had received a box of artifacts donated by Chase following her decommissioning on 29 March, 2011 that included a DC Fire helmet, coffee mugs from the ward room, misc. Chase CO stationary items, a Challenge coin, Chase crest decals and a salty old yellow battle lantern that was fully charged and in good working condition. Other items donated for the raffle were a few decommissioning programs, some framed photographs, a nice pewter CG photo frame, and a CG belt buckle all from Chaser Al Ricker. Also donated was the large National Ensign that was flown on Chase just prior to her decommissioning? It was presented to Plank Owner and Chase’s first XO Wendell Driggers during the decomm ceremony and he in turn donated it for the raffle. Woody also donated some framed prints of Chase, a small framed CG Vietnam Squadron 3 poster and some CG Coffee mugs and the Chase Assoc. also threw in one each of our official patch, decal and coffee mug which all together provided lots of great prizes. It seems that everyone won something (Rodney won the flag) but even those that didn’t would not walk away empty handed because this reunion’s keepsake was a 4 inch round Chase Assoc Crest magnet and because of the light turnout everyone received 3 or 4 of them. Following the raffle the ships store was opened with a plentiful supply of T-Shirts, Patches, Decals and Mugs for sale. Our 2 hour gathering wrapped up with a photo shoot in front of the official Assoc. reunion Banner and Chase Artifacts (Ribbon Board and Life Ring donated to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum on Cape Cod) that Woody brought along because the Museum was still closed for the winter season. Following clean-up it was back to the hospitality room where the camaraderie continued.
A Gathering
I also want to mention a couple of things that stand out from our meeting. First, we were joined by Chase’s next to the last Skipper Captain Brian Perkins who had just retired and was in the DC area. Earlier during the gathering Brian had contacted member Phil Stone who is still active CG and lives in the area to get the details about the reunion and what day and time the Chase meeting was and as it worked out was able to join us. Also note that it was Brian that coined the phrase “Once a Chaser, Always a Chaser” during his command which was to become the Assoc. Motto. Second, that BMCM Les Parritt made another generous donation to the Chase Assoc. just like he did at the last reunion which I forgot to mention in the 2009 recap. Thanks again Chief! The assoc. also received a few other donations which really help as we are a no dues group.
Friday morning saw the Chasers and others beginning to gather in and around the hospitality room striking up a conversation with another Coastie, making plans to head out for an adventure or waiting for the various business meetings and luncheons scheduled for the afternoon to begin. The Hotel provided transportation to the Air and Space museum over by Dulles airport so a few of us elected to head out that way to see what the museum had to offer. It was quite impressive with a little bit of every kind of aircraft on display but most noteworthy were theConcord, the SR-71 Blackbird and Space Shuttle Enterprise. What was obviously very disrespectful to our group of Coasties was the lack of Coast Guard Aircraft. We looked long and hard only to find nothing and when we asked why there were no USCG planes or helicopters on display they didn’t have an answer. Oh well, left out again. After we returned to the hotel it seemed like a good time to fire up the TV and DVD player in the hospitality room that we chipped in to rent and play some of the Chase Decomm DVD’s that Rodney Young and some of the Chase crew had made as well as a Chase photo collection and Chase 40 year tribute DVD’s again both made by Rodney. They were a big hit and were played over a few more times during the reunion. Later in the afternoon a group of us went across the street to a TGI Friday’s for supper which was a change of scenery and served pretty good food. By late Friday evening everyone seemed pooped and the Chasers and others quietly disappeared back to their rooms for a good nights rest.
Saturday morning it seems like everyone had worked up an appetite because I found just about everyone in the Hotel Restaurant eating breakfast. After tossing around a few ideas about what to do a few of us elected to go back to the Air and Space Museum to watch the movie about flight in the IMAX Theater. It was quite interesting especially for me as I work on designing many of the parts for both of the new 21stcentury Boeing and Airbus aircraft depicted in the movie. I think most everyone found some interesting things to do during the free time. At about 18:00 the Chase reunion and CGCVA Convention crews started to gather in the foyer area outside of the banquet rooms where a cash bar happy hour was underway from 6 - 7 PM. The gathering took on a more formal glow as most folks had dressed up a bit to attend the Awards Banquet to follow which was the final gathering of all the attendees.
Saturday morning it seems like everyone had worked up an appetite because I found just about everyone in the Hotel Restaurant eating breakfast. After tossing around a few ideas about what to do a few of us elected to go back to the Air and Space Museum to watch the movie about flight in the IMAX Theater. It was quite interesting especially for me as I work on designing many of the parts for both of the new 21stcentury Boeing and Airbus aircraft depicted in the movie. I think most everyone found some interesting things to do during the free time. At about 18:00 the Chase reunion and CGCVA Convention crews started to gather in the foyer area outside of the banquet rooms where a cash bar happy hour was underway from 6 - 7 PM. The gathering took on a more formal glow as most folks had dressed up a bit to attend the Awards Banquet to follow which was the final gathering of all the attendees.
Awards Banquet
The Awards Banquet was the grand finale to a successful reunion convention. Following the entrance of the members of the head table CGCVA Association chaplain Vince Patton delivered the invocation.
This was followed by the presentation of colors, the playing of the National
Anthem and recital of the Pledge of Allegiance. Following dinner CGCVA president Paul C. Scotti acknowledged notable attendees including 22 members of the Cutter Chase Association. The president then introduced Rear Admiral Cari B. Thomas. Admiral Thomas expressed emphatically, “I am a friend of the Coast Guard Combat Veterans Association” and went on to say that the senior leadership at Coast Guard Headquarters firmly supports the Association’s contribution in promoting Coast Guard history and making known the Coast Guard’s military valor. She concluded with a stirring tribute to the high character and accomplishments of current Coast Guard men and women. Admiral Thomas also took a moment to aknowledge the members of the Chase Association in attendance. When she finished Scotti said, “Where do we sign up, admiral?” The keynote address was given by Rear Admiral James A. Watson, Deputy commander, Atlanta Area. Admiral Watson delivered a good Speech about the present Coast Guard, including the modernization of the Cutter fleet and that eight new national security cutters are replacing the twelve aging 378-foot cutters. The Admiral also mentioned the recent decommissioning of the first two, Hamilton and Chase. Eight of these cutters will be able to carry on the duties of twelve cutters because of their greater capabilities. He also talked about the Coast Guard’s role in the on-going military conflicts and the presence of Coast Guardsmen and cutters in the Southwest Asia Theater. Finally, he expressed the importance of documenting Coast Guard history and he was pleased to be in the presence of those who are the history of the Coast Guard. The banquet continued with various awards being given out and acknowledging the notable individuals in attendance. The festivities concluded with a raffle which was a big hit with the Chasers as some of us had the winning tickets.
This was followed by the presentation of colors, the playing of the National
Anthem and recital of the Pledge of Allegiance. Following dinner CGCVA president Paul C. Scotti acknowledged notable attendees including 22 members of the Cutter Chase Association. The president then introduced Rear Admiral Cari B. Thomas. Admiral Thomas expressed emphatically, “I am a friend of the Coast Guard Combat Veterans Association” and went on to say that the senior leadership at Coast Guard Headquarters firmly supports the Association’s contribution in promoting Coast Guard history and making known the Coast Guard’s military valor. She concluded with a stirring tribute to the high character and accomplishments of current Coast Guard men and women. Admiral Thomas also took a moment to aknowledge the members of the Chase Association in attendance. When she finished Scotti said, “Where do we sign up, admiral?” The keynote address was given by Rear Admiral James A. Watson, Deputy commander, Atlanta Area. Admiral Watson delivered a good Speech about the present Coast Guard, including the modernization of the Cutter fleet and that eight new national security cutters are replacing the twelve aging 378-foot cutters. The Admiral also mentioned the recent decommissioning of the first two, Hamilton and Chase. Eight of these cutters will be able to carry on the duties of twelve cutters because of their greater capabilities. He also talked about the Coast Guard’s role in the on-going military conflicts and the presence of Coast Guardsmen and cutters in the Southwest Asia Theater. Finally, he expressed the importance of documenting Coast Guard history and he was pleased to be in the presence of those who are the history of the Coast Guard. The banquet continued with various awards being given out and acknowledging the notable individuals in attendance. The festivities concluded with a raffle which was a big hit with the Chasers as some of us had the winning tickets.
April 1, 2011 USCGC CHASE Decommissioned
Here she is, decommissioned with all name and insignia removed, and ready for her new coat of gray before sale and transfer to her new nation and navy.
The U.S. flags are still flown as she remains the property of her original nation until the transfer takes place.
Captain Perkins, "Cutterman Call" - March 16, 2011
A Toast to USCGC CHASE
This toast was made at the final Cutterman's Call in Washington DC before CHASE was decommissioned. Two other cutters were similarly honored, and each of the three toasts were read by a former CO of that cutter in front of all the cuttermen assembled. The toast that follows was read by CAPT Brian D. Perkins, Chief of Cutter Forces. He was the second to last CO of CHASE.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Coast Guard Cutter CHASE was the fourth 378-foot High Endurance Cutter. She was built in Avondale Shipyard in New Orleans and commissioned in 1968. Her homeport became Boston.
She served on Ocean Station in '68-'69 providing aircraft with homing beacons and communications as they crossed the Atlantic. In November of 1969 she deployed to Vietnam in support of Operation MARKET TIME under the Navy's Seventh Fleet, where she conducted boardings and gunfire support missions around South Vietnam near the Cambodian border. That was a very tight crew and I've met many of them; they started the CHASE Association which continues to this day, and I'm proud to be a member. Winning several awards for enemy action, she returned to Ocean Station in 1970. She crossed the Arctic Circle in 1972, and supported Operation SEACONEX in the Med under the Navy in 1973. From 1973 until 1977 she patrolled the Atlantic conducting search and rescue, but detoured to Beirut in 1976 to assist with the evacuation of the American Embassy following an assassination of one of our diplomats in Lebanon.
In 1977 the Magnuson Act was passed, and CHASE became one of the first cutters to enforce the newly established EEZ. At this time large foreign flagged trawlers could continually be seen from the New England shoreline, and only over time were foreign quotas established and enforced, and then reduced. During the 80's she became more and more active in the interception of smugglers, both drugs and people. Patrols now ranged from the Gulf of Maine to Colombia as CHASE worked to protect fish stocks and reduce the rise of the cartels. Various NATO and Navy missions continued to draw her services in 1982 and 1983.
She suffered a fire with loss of life in 1985 and was eventually FRAM'd at Bath Iron Works in 1989. Upon completion she was transferred to San Pedro, California, reducing crowding in Boston and adding her strength to an increasingly beleaguered Bering and Eastern Pacific.
FISHPATS in the Bering and the mid-Pacific and LE patrols in the East PAC filled the next decade, although in 1992 she visited Vladiavostok for the historic reopening of the American Consulate. And periodically she transited through the Panama Canal to assist with mass migrations and to serve in Operations ABLE MANNER and ABLE VIGIL near Haiti. She also returned to Southeast Asia in 1997 to assist with nation building and international security missions, and deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1998 to conduct boardings under the Navy.
In 1999 she made the second largest cocaine bust to date, 7 metric tons. These continued throughout the decade, until in 2009 she ultimately seized two go-fasts simultaneously during a single HITRON intercept and then caught the third self-propelled semi-submersible...completely unawares and unable to scuttle, providing 8 metric tons and valuable intel. I'm proud to say these last were under my command, but it was because of the crew who continued a tradition of excellence and who were a pleasure to lead.
Ladies and Gentlemen, once a CHASER, always a CHASER. A toast! To Cost Guard Cutter CHASE!
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Coast Guard Cutter CHASE was the fourth 378-foot High Endurance Cutter. She was built in Avondale Shipyard in New Orleans and commissioned in 1968. Her homeport became Boston.
She served on Ocean Station in '68-'69 providing aircraft with homing beacons and communications as they crossed the Atlantic. In November of 1969 she deployed to Vietnam in support of Operation MARKET TIME under the Navy's Seventh Fleet, where she conducted boardings and gunfire support missions around South Vietnam near the Cambodian border. That was a very tight crew and I've met many of them; they started the CHASE Association which continues to this day, and I'm proud to be a member. Winning several awards for enemy action, she returned to Ocean Station in 1970. She crossed the Arctic Circle in 1972, and supported Operation SEACONEX in the Med under the Navy in 1973. From 1973 until 1977 she patrolled the Atlantic conducting search and rescue, but detoured to Beirut in 1976 to assist with the evacuation of the American Embassy following an assassination of one of our diplomats in Lebanon.
In 1977 the Magnuson Act was passed, and CHASE became one of the first cutters to enforce the newly established EEZ. At this time large foreign flagged trawlers could continually be seen from the New England shoreline, and only over time were foreign quotas established and enforced, and then reduced. During the 80's she became more and more active in the interception of smugglers, both drugs and people. Patrols now ranged from the Gulf of Maine to Colombia as CHASE worked to protect fish stocks and reduce the rise of the cartels. Various NATO and Navy missions continued to draw her services in 1982 and 1983.
She suffered a fire with loss of life in 1985 and was eventually FRAM'd at Bath Iron Works in 1989. Upon completion she was transferred to San Pedro, California, reducing crowding in Boston and adding her strength to an increasingly beleaguered Bering and Eastern Pacific.
FISHPATS in the Bering and the mid-Pacific and LE patrols in the East PAC filled the next decade, although in 1992 she visited Vladiavostok for the historic reopening of the American Consulate. And periodically she transited through the Panama Canal to assist with mass migrations and to serve in Operations ABLE MANNER and ABLE VIGIL near Haiti. She also returned to Southeast Asia in 1997 to assist with nation building and international security missions, and deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1998 to conduct boardings under the Navy.
In 1999 she made the second largest cocaine bust to date, 7 metric tons. These continued throughout the decade, until in 2009 she ultimately seized two go-fasts simultaneously during a single HITRON intercept and then caught the third self-propelled semi-submersible...completely unawares and unable to scuttle, providing 8 metric tons and valuable intel. I'm proud to say these last were under my command, but it was because of the crew who continued a tradition of excellence and who were a pleasure to lead.
Ladies and Gentlemen, once a CHASER, always a CHASER. A toast! To Cost Guard Cutter CHASE!