January 2011

Greetings All,

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The first meeting of the New Year is history, so that means it is again time for another edition of the Base Commander’s Corner.

Our January meeting was held at our new meeting location, Guadalajara Grill on Jefferson Ave, Temecula.  In attendance were 23 members, 10 wives or family members and 3 guests, including a member of the Minneapolis-St. Paul base, Rolly Conklin, who was in town visiting family and enjoying our nice weather.  Rolly was also the 50/50 winner and was gracious enough to donate it back to the treasury.  Thank You Rolly.  We also were honored to have as a guest Colley O’Gorman who is a member of SVWWII San Diego Chapter and Scamp Base and who is now a life member of Trieste Base; also joining us was Steve Gillet from San Diego, who also became a member. Welcome aboard Colley and Steve.  It was great to see so many members in attendance. Quite a few I hadn’t personally seen in months.

The big event of the meeting was the induction of our own base Vice Commander, Howard Hoyt, into the august realm of the Holland Club, by no less than the National Commander of USSVI, T. Michael Bircumshaw.  Congratulations Howard.
In addition, it was brought to the base assemblage that our very own George Kinnison was inducted into the Smithsonian Aviation Wall of Honor for his service as a test pilot for the North American Corporation. Congratulations George.

Not much in the way of events happening at this time of the year.  In talking with our Eagle Scout co-coordinator, he has us on the list of 3 scout troops in the Temecula area and they seem to like the idea.  So, look for presentations in the future.

I would also like to thank member Bill Abrams for his handiwork in creating a mounting stand for the new “tolling bell” for the base. Bravo Zulu. Well Done.

I would also like to thank Ray Hamilton for volunteering to be a member of the Trieste Base phone tree.  Thanks for stepping up Ray!

I would like to again remind everyone of the King High School Remembers program.  This will be happening on March 18, 2011 at 0900.  This is a veterans oral history program in its 11th year.  Veterans are invited to attend and talk about their service.  If you are interested in attending please contact myself for inclusion in this program.

On kind of a downer note, we have 5 members who are now dinq; Shannon Bragg, Chuck Casey, Dave Brown, Terrence Wiggins and Greg Smith.  Again, I would hate to see anyone of you dropped from the rolls of the National organization. So, please contact either our treasurer Larry Estrada or myself to arrange payment of your dues.  You have until Jan 31, 2011 to get your dues in or you will be dropped from the National Roster.  The National office must receive dues by the 31st. So to hedge your bets I would get the dues to the treasurer prior to the 26th of January to allow time for the US Mail to deliver it to Silverdale, Washington.

2011 marks 3rd year in commission for Trieste Base.  The base has grown from the beginning 9 to the current 46 members. What we have accomplished in this time is a direct reflection of your involvement in base activities.  I would like to thank each one of you for your efforts and involvement in the base, whether it is just able to support the base by attending meetings or volunteering your time to march in a parade or holding base office.  I salute you and you have my heartfelt thanks.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

December 2010

Greetings All,

For those who missed the Joint Christmas party with Scamp Base it was a good time with good food and great camaraderie. 11 Trieste Base members attended the event.  A great turnout from the base and I urge you to seriously consider attending next years event where ever it will be held.

There was not much to discuss at the meeting as not much is happening over the I next month besides the holidays.  However, one of the big things upcoming is the King High School Remembers program. This will be happening on March 18, 2011 at 0900. This is a veterans oral history program in its 11th year.  Veterans are invited to attend and talk about their service. If you are interested in attending please contact myself for inclusion in this program.

I would also like to thank Jodie Christopher and Bill Abrams who have volunteered to be the Eagle Scout Coordinators for Trieste Base.  They will promulgate more information about this program as it becomes available.

This will be the last time I harp about dues prior to the end of the year.  Still have 5 members who are in danger of going DINQ on dues; Shannon Bragg, Chuck Casey, Dave Brown, Terrence Wiggins and Greg Smith.  You have until December 31 to pay. Please do not wait until the last minute to renew.  I would hate to see anyone of you dropped from the rolls of the National organization.  So, please contact either our treasurer Larry Estrada or myself and arrange payment of your dues.  That about does it for this month’s edition of the BCBS.  Updates as they occur.

I would like to thank all members of the base for making this base the success that it has become.  It is all due to your participation.

Lastly, I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a safe and enjoyable New Year.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

November 2010

Greetings All,

November meeting is over so it must be time for the latest edition of the Base Commanders Corner.

Our November meeting was held on the 21st at our new temporary location, Mama Collettis restaurant.  The meeting area is small, but that just allows closeness for the group.  It also boasts great and friendly service.  In attendance at the November meeting were 16 members, 10 wives/family members along with 1 guest from Scamp Base.  We are currently looking for new digs for the January meeting, with more room. Location will be promulgated at a later time.  Next meeting will be held December 19, 2010 at Mama Colettis at 1500.

During the meeting we were honored to witness the induction of two members of Trieste Base into the Holland Club by the National Commander of USSVI, T. Michael Bircumshaw.  The inductees were Ard Johnson and “Doc” Zimmer.  Congratulations Doc and Ard on achieving this milestone of 50 years of “qualified in submarines” service.

On November 11 the base participated in the 8th Annual City of Murrieta Veterans Day Parade.  This was another great parade hosted by the City of Murrieta.  There was a great turnout this year; there were a total of 18 submarine veterans from Trieste, Bonefish and Scamp bases along with what was estimated as a crowd of 12,000 people. 12 of the members that participated were from Trieste Base.  During the parade I did see a couple of members from Trieste Base who were in attendance as spectators.  Maybe next year we can get them into the parade. At the conclusion of the parade there was the opportunity to walk amongst the “Field of Honor” at Town Square Park.  This year there were 2000 flags flying representing those who have served. Trieste Base was a participant in the selling of the flags for the Field of Honor.  For each flag that the base sold we will receive $10 for the treasury.

Next up for the base is the Scamp base Christmas party to which Trieste Base has been invited to attend.  So far there are 4 members who are planning on attending.  If you would like to attend please let me know so I may reserve you a spot.  Will need to know NLT Dec 5, 2010. Cost of the event is $23 per person; this does not include gratuity or drinks.  The location will be at Anthony’s Restaurant, Murrieta Ca.  The chefs at this restaurant recently won a contest for best food held at Pechanga Casino. Hope you will consider attending this joint event.

It is that time of the year for me to start harping on the holdouts for DUES!!!  There are 6 members who have yet to pay National Dues and 7 members who have not paid Trieste dues.  You have until December 31 to pay.  Please do not wait until the last minute to renew.  I would hate to see anyone of you dropped from the rolls of the National organization.  So please contact either our treasurer Larry Estrada or myself and make arrangements for your dues.

Lastly I hope everyone has a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

That about does it for this month’s edition of the BCBS.  Updates as they occur.

I would be remiss if I did not thank each and every member of this base.  You are the reason that this base has become so successful in such a short amount of time.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

September 2010

Greetings All,

Well another month down and time for the Base Commanders Corner.  That, hopefully, informative note to the membership letting you know what is going on in your base.

Our September meeting was attended by 17 members, 4 guests, 6 wives and 2 other family members.  Our guests included Bob Miller, Western Region District 6 Commander; Bob Schive, Base Commander, Bonefish Base; and David Sherrill and his wife Vicki, guests from St. Louis.

I would like to start out this month on a high note.  Bob Miller, WRD6 Commander was on hand to present the award for Class III newsletter of the year to Trieste Base and to present patches to the people who made it happen.  Congratulations Todd Miller and Bob Cox.  Without your dedication and perseverance this project would never have gotten off the ground.  You both can be proud of what you have accomplished in a short amount of time.  Photos of the plaque and patch are available on the website.

We also had in attendance the new National Commander of USSVI, Trieste Base member T. Michael Bircumshaw. Congratulations on your selection as the new National Commander.  I would also like to thank those base members who took the time to vote in the USSVI national election.

T. Michael is in search of a new National Storekeeper and offered up the opportunity for a member of Trieste base to step forward and accept this challenge.  There are some bennies for the National Storekeeper.  Travel to and from each convention and a room when you get there.  So think about it.  If there are any takers please contact the National Commander directly or me and I will pass along your willingness to assist the national organization.

Also as long as we are talking volunteers here, I would like to thank Rick Bingham for volunteering to be the new Trieste Base Events coordinator.  Rick will be the go to guy for all events in which Trieste Base will participate.

Upcoming Base events:

October 2 - Scamp Base food fest in Escondido at 1200 at the Escondido American Legion.  If you have never been I strongly urge you to attend. Food is free, donations are graciously accepted and appreciated.  Fresh Baked Alaskan Salmon with Lemon Butter, BBQ Spare Ribs, Rice Pilaf, Ranch Style Beans, Seasoned Green Beans, Oriental Cole Slaw and Dinner Rolls.

October 3 - Trieste Base Fall picnic at the Temecula Duck Pond picnic area at 1000.  Todd Miller has volunteered to homestead the cabana at 0700. Hope to see a large turnout.  This will be a POT-LUCK event. Bring what you would like to share.

November 11 - Murrieta Veterans Day parade.  This is the biggest parade that Trieste Base participates in.  I need names of individuals who plan on being in the parade with me.  Wives and children/grandchildren are encouraged to participate.  Howard Hoyt and his wife Anna have again graciously volunteered to drive their 1964 Mustang and will carry our WWII veterans. George Kinnison and Harold “HB” Williams.  So plan on coming on down and participating in the parade.

December 12 - And finally a little further down the pike is the Scamp Base Christmas party.  It will be held December 12 at 1300 at Anthony’s Restaurant on Washington Avenue, Murrieta.  There is a limit of 50 people.  Price is $23 per person drinks are extra.  Please let me know as soon as possible so I can turn in a list of Trieste Base members who will attend.  It will be Scamp Base, Trieste Base, Bonefish Base and SVWWII.  So 50 spots may go quickly.

Ongoing Base projects:

Field of Honor fundraiser - Bob Cox is the point of contact for this endeavor.  For each flag that the base sells $10 will be returned to the base.  Almost like free money.  The cost is a little effort from the base membership.  I would hope that each member could sell 2 flags.  That would assist our treasury greatly.

I haven’t harped on this for quite some time so here goes.  I would like "THEN" photos from those individuals who as of yet have not submitted “THEN” photos of your handsome selves.  This will be incorporated into the website in the members area.  Along that same vein I would also like bio’s from all members also to be included in the member section.  So for those who haven’t submitted “THEN” photos, root through your old photo albums and scan or send to me those photos for scanning.  Originals will be returned.

C & BL updates

With the changes to the USSVI Constitution and By-Laws from this last election, Trieste Base has nominated the following people for inclusion in the Holland Club.

Ard Johnson, EMC(SS), Qualified 1960 on USS Cutlass (SS-478)
Richard “Doc” Zimmer, HMC(SS), Qualified 1960 on USS Trumpetfish (SS-425)

BASE DUES!!!!!

Annual members should note that you may pay your dues at anytime now.  The Treasurer and myself will be pinging on you to renew.  National dues are only $20 per year and Trieste dues are only $10 per year.  Or you can get a great deal by paying $55.00 for 3 years national or $90 for 5 years.  The following are annual members, Shannon Bragg, Dave Brown, Dan Burkett, James Carriaga, Chuck Casey, Bob Cox, Dave Eisner, Larry Estrada, Howard Hoyt, Ard Johnson, Todd Miller, Keith Newell, Del Queen, Greg Smith, Rick West, Terrence Wiggins, Ed Yarbrough, Doc Zimmer.

Mark your calendars - Next meeting October 17, 2010 at Sizzlers Restaurant, 27727 Jefferson Avenue, Temecula, CA.

This about does it for this months BCBS.  Again, I would like to thank each and every member of this base.  You are the engine that keeps us moving in the right direction and the reason we have become so successful in such a short amount of time.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

August 2010

Greetings All,

End of another meeting and time again for another edition of the Base Commander’s Corner.  That little note to inform and enlighten all members as to the happenings in and around Trieste Base.

Our August meeting, in our new location*, was attended by 17 members, 9 wives and 6 guests. 3 of those guests became members of Trieste Base during the meeting.  Please join me in welcoming aboard Ray Hamilton, Chris Morris and Ed Bailey. This brings our current membership level to 44 members.  Ray, Chris and Ed WELCOME ABOARD as part of, what I think is, the best base in USSVI.

In the last month I have received notification of a few members who are on the binnacle list.  So please keep the following in your thoughts or prays, as your religious convictions dictate.  John Cameron, Stan Reinhold and Evin Stump’s young granddaughter Getty.

On July 25th I had the pleasure of attending a scholarship presentation at the Temecula Duck Pond.  This was the “Path of Honor” scholarship awards.  The 2 scholarships were presented to the following students, Aaron Barragan, Great Oaks High School and David Neverman, Murrieta Valley High School.  To help in funding the continuation of these scholarships please visit www.pathofhonor.org

August 7th was the much delayed Inaugural Trieste Base garage sale.  It was a success.  A total of $272.50 was raised along with a donation of $27.50 to bring the grand total to $300.  However I think we need to find a higher trafficked area to hold the event.  I would like to thank all those members who donated items to be sold. Without you this would not have been possible. I would also like to thank Howard Hoyt for assisting in the setting up and selling at the garage sale.  Hopefully this will become an annual event. So start collecting items for the next garage sale.

Our next event on the docket is the Norco Labor Day Parade. Not much info on this as of yet but Rick Bingham is the point man for this and Jim Hayes has volunteered to tow the float during the parade.  The Parade is September 6, 2010 – parade starts at 10 AM.  Entrants must be formed up by 0800. More information will be provided upon receipt.  Will need a head count of how many think they will participate.

Also for long range planning; October Base Picnic at the Temecula Duck Pond (tentative date Oct 3), Murrieta Veterans Day parade and a joint Christmas party with Scamp Base to be held in the Northern San Diego County area.

During the meeting member George Kinnison donated to the base 2 magnetic signs to attach to the tow vehicle.  The illustration was designed by George.  Also he donated an easel and other items to assist in the recruitment efforts.  This is a well thought out gift.  I know I speak for the entire base when I say THANK YOU George.

The National Convention is coming up at the end of the month and the results of the awards presented should be available at the next meeting.  I am hoping we have a sweep of the awards we were nominated for.

As a base we continue to receive publicity in the local newspapers.  The Press-Enterprise profiled the Trieste Base in their “Club Corner”.  Here is the link http://www.pe.com/localnews/temecula/stories/PE_News_Local_S_sclub06.2e244cd.html to the article.  And a good write up about the “path of honor” scholarship awards had 2 photos of T. Michael in this vest.  You can’t buy this type of publicity.  It is all good.

DUES, DUES, DUES!!!  I know it is only the middle of August but it is not too early to start thinking about saving a few ducats and paying your National and Trieste Base dues now to beat the rush.  The following are annual members, Shannon Bragg, Dave Brown, Dan Burkett, James Carriaga, Chuck Casey, Bob Cox, Dave Eisner, Larry Estrada, Howard Hoyt, Ard Johnson, Todd Miller, Keith Newell, Del Queen, Greg Smith, Rick West, Terrence Wiggins, Ed Yarbrough, Doc Zimmer.  So please get the dues in early.  Some of the above have already paid.  Thank you!

And finally I would like to remind everyone that the USSVI National elections are still in progress and if you haven’t voted yet please do.  It is your voice that determines the course of USSVI.

I would also be remiss if I did not thank each and every member of this base.  You are the reason that this base has become so successful.

*About our new meeting location – Sizzlers restaurant, 27717 Jefferson Avenue, Temecula, Ca. We have the room reserved from 1430 until end of meeting each 3rd Sunday.  This will allow people to arrive at 1430 have lunch and a serious shoot the breeze prior to the meeting.  The only thing lacking was a microphone so some of our members with less than “sonar tech” ears can hear.  Next meeting will be September 19th, 2010.  See you there.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

July 2010

Greetings All,

This will be shortened edition of the Base Commanders Corner.  We had no July meeting, but instead had a joint picnic at Submarine Base San Diego, with the San Diego Base, Scamp Base and SubVets of WWII.  This picnic was also the occasion of the 2nd Anniversary of Trieste Base.  Trieste Base was chartered on July 20, 2008.

There was a good turnout for Trieste Base; there were 16 members, 11 wives/girlfriends and 11 other guests of members for a total attendance of 38 people.  One of the guests of Trieste Base was a staff member of Congressman Darrell Issa.  The Congressman was unable to attend due to business in DC.  So in breaking down the cost to the base, which was a $200 donation to the picnic, equates to $5.26 per each Trieste Base attendee and guests. What a bargain.  Also quite a few of the members also brought food to share with our group along with an anniversary cake.  In this reporters estimate the largest contingent in attendance was the Trieste Base. Trieste Base also took home a lion’s share of the door prizes that were raffled off.

We also had a prospective member attend our little group.  I will follow up with him when I return from vacation.
The food and beverages were in large quantity and excellent quality; burgers, dogs and cheese sausages along with beer, wine, soda, water and coffee along with salads, snacks and even breakfast rolls for the early arrivals.  The afternoon boat tour was so long I was beginning to wonder if the boat hadn’t had an emergency underway.  The 1300 tour group finally made it back to the picnic area about 1445.  As I told a few people, my final qualification walkthrough didn’t take that long.

For those of you who missed this event there will be another chance next year.  We had such a great turnout again, that I have already talked to the San Diego Base and Scamp Base and told them to include us in next year’s plans.

The next item on Trieste Base agenda is the Path of Honor scholarship awards on the 25th of July at 2 PM (1400) at the Temecula Duck pond.  I hope to see a good showing of Trieste Base members to represent the base. After that is our August meeting.  That meeting location is still a closely guarded secret due to the fact that our current meeting location is still undergoing renovation and there is no estimated completion date.  So our able Secretary is scouting a couple locations for our next meeting. When a final location is decided upon the location will be promulgated to the members.  Also plan on the picnic.

This is about it for this month.  Again I look forward to seeing a good turnout on Sunday July 25th at the Duck Pond in Temecula.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

June 2010

Greetings Trieste Base,

Tis that time for another chapter of the Base Commanders Corner.

Again I must start this edition with sad news.  George Ellis has departed upon Eternal Patrol.  George slipped his mooring lines for the last time on May 25, 2010.  George joined Trieste Base in August of 2009.  There will always be a reminder of George at all of our meetings.  George donated the large photo of Trieste II to the base.  Per George’s request was no memorial service or funeral.

The June meeting was graciously hosted at the home of Bob and Cely Cox, this due to the construction being done at our normal meeting location, Sizzler’s Restaurant.  There were 12 members and one guest, who became a life member of the base, along with 7 wives and one granddaughter, Victoria Michelle.  Please join me in welcoming into the Trieste Base family “Rocky” Rockers, currently residing in Oceanside, Ca.  Rocky is a candidate for the office of Western Region director.  His membership brings Trieste base to 41 members.

I also had the honor of inducting Harold “HB” Williams into the Holland Club.  HB has been a life member of USSVI since 1993 and qualified since 1953.  In talking to him I found out he had never been inducted into the Holland Club.  So we corrected this little oversight.

July will be a hectic month for Trieste Base:

1.) The 4th is the Temecula 4th of July parade in which the base will participate.  T. Michael has again volunteered his time and vehicle to tow the base float.  For those that are interested in participating please contact me prior to Saturday.

2.) The 18th will be the Trieste Base picnic.  This year it is being held in conjunction with the San Diego/Scamp bases and SVWWII San Diego chapter.  It will be held at Smugglers Cove on Submarine Base Point Loma.  All food and beverage will be provided.  So all you need to attend is your body. Hope there will be a good turnout. There will be two tours of submarines one at 1000 and one at 1300.  So if you are interested in a tour billets are filling up quick.  I will need your full name and last 4 of your SSN.

3.) Then 31st we will have the Inaugural Trieste Base Garage Sale.  This will commence at 0600 at my house.  There is still time to donate sellable items for the garage sale.  Please contact Howard for information.

I cannot stress enough that the National Elections for USSVI leadership is underway and I feel it incumbent upon all members to exercise your ability to vote to choose the next leaders for USSVI.  If you need any assistance in the voting process please do not hesitate to contact me.  I will assist you in this endeavor.  However I cannot vote for you.  Currently only 11 of 31 eligible members have voted – 35% of members.  I would really like to see 100% participation.

That about concludes this BCBS for this month.  Updates as they happen.

Again, I hope that we have a good turnout at the picnic on the 18th.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

May 2010

Greetings Trieste Base,

I open this monthly message on a very sad note.  One of our members has slipped his mooring lines for the last time and departed upon Eternal Patrol.  Herman Krantz departed on May 15, 2010.  Herman joined USSVI and Trieste Base on October 2, 2008 and was a Life Member of both.  Herman qualified on the USS Lapon (SS-260) in 1945.  According to his widow there will be no memorial service or funeral due to Herman’s wishes.  I have passed on the bases’ condolences.

Also George Ellis is still ill so please keep him in your thoughts or prayers depending upon your religious convictions.

Attending our May meeting were 20 members and 10 wives, which is an awesome turnout.  The big event during the meeting was the induction of 2 of our members, Carl Farris and Evin Stump into the Holland Club.  There were 9 current Holland Club members in attendance to welcome the 2 newest members into their fraternity.  Well done Carl and Evin.

Mark your calendars for Memorial Day.  The City of Murrieta will unveil the WWII Memorial Wall on May 31st at 1000 at Murrieta’s Town Square Park.  The public is invited to attend.  Also on May 31, 2010 is the Tolling of the Boats Ceremony at the Roncador Memorial, Naval Base Point Loma at 1000.  I hope that the members will be able to attend one of these events on Memorial Day.  I will be attending the Murrieta event.  Hope to see a good turnout from Trieste Base.

Our June meeting is scheduled for the 27th of June.  This is the 4th Sunday vice the 3rd Sunday.  However, when I went to schedule the room for the 4th Sunday I was informed that there might not be a meeting place for us on that day or any other day. The restaurant is being remodeled and the room may be removed and more seating area installed.  I will have to check back the first week of June to find out for sure.  Will keep you posted on this development.  Also don’t forget that Trieste Base member Dave Eisner is retiring from the U. S. Navy on the 15th of June at Naval Base Point Loma at 1000 at the Roncador Memorial.

In July, there will be the City of Temecula 4th of July parade.  We will attend that event with our float.  Speaking of the float there will be a working party at Rick and Janie Bingham’s house on Friday May 21, 2010 for work on the float, which Rick has really been busy with improvements on.  Following the 4th of July will be our 2nd Anniversary meeting scheduled for July 18th, which will be a potluck picnic to be held at Smugglers Cove, Naval Base Point Loma, starting at 1000.  There is a chance that we may be able to tour a submarine if one is in port and available to us.  But that, of course, is dependant upon SUBRON 11.  Due to changes in tour requirements promulgated by SUBRON 11 only 25 visitors are allowed onboard the submarine.  I look forward to a great turnout at this meeting.  The last meeting/picnic held here had a fantastic turnout and everyone who attended said they had a great time.

As a follow up to the request last month from National please update your service information on the USSVI national website. Any questions on how to do this please contact our base Webmaster or myself.

I encourage all members who have Internet access to stop by the base website www.triestebase.org and check out all the updates and new additions that have been made to the site.  I am within single digits of my goal of having 100% “then” photos. Only 9 more people left to pester.  If you are one of the remaining 9 who haven’t sent me a “then” photo please do.

That is it for this edition of the Base Commanders BS.  I cannot thank all of the members and wives of this base.  You are what make Trieste base the best base, not just in Western Region 6, or in the Western District but in the entire USSVI.  Looking forward to seeing all of you at the next meeting June 27, 2010 at a place TBD.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

April 2010

Hello fellow Trieste Base members,

It is again that time for me to put out the Base Commanders Corner.  I start this message on a down note. 2 of our members are not doing well.  Please keep George Ellis and Herman Krantz in your thoughts or prayers depending upon your religious convictions.  I have talked to both and they are in good spirits if however weakened by their ordeals.

Our April meeting was attended by 19 members and 9 wives along with 3 guests, including the youngest person to ever attend a Trieste Base meeting and possibly any USSVI base meeting, Victoria Marie newest grandchild of T. Michael and Suzanna Bircumshaw.  Also in attendance was Doug Smay, Secretary/Treasurer of the San Diego Chapter of the Submarine Veterans of WWII.  He was kind enough to drive from San Diego and give us a talk on the trials and tribulations he faced in completing the 52 Boats Memorial.  Thank you Doug.  He is to be commended for the fortitude to keep going, and seeing through to completion the memorial in the face of numerous hurdles placed in front of him by various municipal entities.

Memorial Day is the next big event for Trieste Base.  The City of Murrieta will unveil the WWII Memorial Wall on May 29th at 1000 at Murrieta’s Town Square Park.  The public is invited to attend.  On May 31, 2010 is the Tolling of the Boats Ceremony at the Roncador Memorial, Naval Base Point Loma at 1100.  Hope there can be a large contingent from Trieste Base in attendance.

June will be a hectic month for Trieste Base.  Member Dave Eisner is retiring from the U. S. Navy on the 15th of June at Naval Base Point Loma at 1000 at the Roncador Memorial.  Also I have finally gotten in touch with the City of Menifee and their 4th of July celebration is going to be held on the 26th of June.  And for planning purposes our June meeting has been moved to the 27th.

In July, there will be the City of Temecula 4th of July parade that I will get information about on or after May 5th.  This event will be followed by our 2nd Anniversary meeting scheduled for July 18th which will be a potluck picnic to be held at Smugglers Cove, Naval Base Point Loma, starting at 1000.  There is a chance that we may be able to tour a submarine if one is in port and available to us.  But that, of course, is dependant upon SUBRON 11.  Due to changes in tour requirements promulgated by SUBRON 11 only 25 visitors are allowed onboard the submarine.  I hope all of you will be able to attend this function.  The last meeting/picnic held here had a fantastic turnout and everyone who attended said they had a great time.

Dan Burkett was presented with a certificate, patch and pin for 1 year Longevity in USSVI.  Congratulations Dan. 1st of many.

Also a request from the National office was made after our April meeting.  If the USSVI can establish itself as a War Veteran organization, there are tax advantages to all.  If you are currently on active duty, or have served honorably during any of the following eligible war eras, USSVI needs to know it.

Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946 (World War II)
June 25, 1950 to Jan. 31, 1955 (Korean War)
Feb. 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975 (Vietnam War)
Aug. 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984 (Lebanon /Grenada)
Dec. 20, 1989 to Jan. 31, 1990 (Panama)
Aug. 2, 1990 to today (Gulf War / GWOT)

Did you serve during any of these dates listed above?  If so, please email the national office with your name, the year you entered service and the year you were discharged/retired from service. office@ussvi.org

I encourage all members who have Internet access to stop by the base website www.triestebase.org and check out all the updates and new additions that have been made to the site.  I am within single digits of my goal of having 100% “then” photos. Only 9 more people left to pester.  Thank you to Terrance and HB for supplying those great photos of you when you were younger.  If you are one of the remaining 9 who haven’t sent me a “then” photo please do.

That is it for this edition of the Base Commanders BS.  I cannot thank all of the members and wives of this base.  You are what make Trieste base the best base, not just in Western Region 6, or in the Western District but in the entire USSVI.  Looking forward to seeing all of you at the next meeting May 16, 2010 at Sizzlers.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

March 2010

Greetings All,

It is time for the monthly update from your Base Commander.  Time to astound and amaze you with the happenings of Trieste Base.

As I write this we have concluded the March meeting, which was attended by 18 members, 5 wives and one guest from San Diego, who made the long arduous trek to the nether reaches of the Temecula Valley to attend our meeting.  Here is hoping Steve decides to become a member of this fine collection of individuals that make up Trieste Base.

Our new officers were installed in office during the meeting:  Secretary – Todd Miller, Treasurer – Larry Estrada, Vice Commander – Howard Hoyt, Commander – Kent Weekly.  I would like to thank these members who stepped up to the plate. During the next election cycle in October 2011 I would like to have a wide slate of candidates to select from.  The jobs are not hard, a little time consuming, but very rewarding.  Look, if I can do it, any trained monkey can do it.  So step up and become a trained monkey like me.

The voting is over and the following boats will be getting the American Submariner via the Boat Sponsorship program: USS Asheville, USS San Francisco, USS Seawolf, and USS Henry M. (Scoop) Jackson.  I would like to thank those members who took the time, and let their desires be known.

I was fortunate enough to attend the 52 Boats Memorial dedication on March 25th.  There were over 350 people who attended the event.  Standing Room Only.  There were over 2 dozen WWII submarine veterans who were also in attendance.  It was good to see George Kinnison and Jacque Abels there.  If you get the time I strongly recommend taking the drive to the former NTC and walking the memorial there.  It was a long 14 years in the making.  Photos are posted on the website.

Submarine Birthday Ball – for those of you interested the 110th birthday of the Submarine Force will be celebrated on April 17, 2010 at the San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina.  The festivities begin at 1700.  The uniform is dinner dress blue, full dress blue (optional) and formal attire for civilians.  For tickets and other information please contact LSCS(SS) Michael Murphy 619-553-8729.

Further down the pike, in June, a couple things are happening.  On June 15th base member Dave Eisner is retiring.  Ceremony will be held at the Roncador memorial at 1000.  Please contact Dave with your RSVP.  Also, our June meeting has been moved to the 27th to avoid a conflict with Fathers Day and the Murrieta Fathers Day car show.  The meeting will still be held at Sizzlers.

Our 2nd Anniversary meeting scheduled for July 18th will be a potluck picnic to be held at Smugglers Cove, Naval Base Point Loma, starting at 1000.  There is a chance that we may be able to tour a submarine if one is in port and available to us.  But that, of course, is entirely up to SUBRON 11.  Changes in tour requirements promulgated by SUBRON 11 have reduced the number of submarine visitors to only 25.  I hope all of you will be able to attend this function.  The last meeting/picnic held here had a fantastic turnout and everyone who attended said they had a great time.

Stop by the website www.triestebase.org and check out al the updates and new additions that have been added to the site.  And only 10 more “THEN” photos left to get.  If you haven’t sent me one yet please do.  I would like to have as many as possible.

That is about it for this edition of the BCBS.  I would like to thank each and every one of the members for making Trieste Base the best base in USSVI.  Look forward to seeing each of you at the next meeting on April 18, 2010 at Sizzlers.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

February 2010

Greetings All,

It is that time for your Base Commander to regale you with tales of daring do.  But being fresh out of daring do, I will instead just inform you of the current happenings in and around Trieste Base.

Our February meeting was held at Sizzler Steak house, the normal hangout, on the 21st.  In attendance were 21 members 12 wives and 2 guests.  A great turnout.

As a base we are continuing to grow.  At the meeting we had a new member enlist in the base.  Please join me in welcoming our newest member Ard Johnson who attended with this lovely wife Jennetta.  He brings the base membership to 42.

Our election cycle was just completed and the results are as follows: Secretary – Todd Miller, Treasurer – Larry Estrada, Vice Commander – Howard Hoyt, Commander – Kent Weekly.  I would like to thank the people who took the time to express their desires by ballot.  There were 19 members who took pen in hand, or mouse to monitor and let their wishes be known.  That was just under 50% voter turnout.  I would like to see a more robust turnout in 2 years for the next election.

There are a couple of events happening in San Diego in March.  On the 19th is the dedication of the Hugh Story Memorial Rose Garden at Liberty Station.  This occurs at 1000.  Then on the 25th is the Dedication Ceremony for the 52 Boats Memorial at Liberty Station at 1100.  Your Base Commander will be there for both events representing Trieste Base.  Hope to see some friendly faces there also.

Submarine Birthday Ball – for those of you interested the 110th birthday of the Submarine Force will be celebrated on April 17, 2010 at the San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina.  The festivities begin at 1700.  The uniform is dinner dress blue, full dress blue (optional) and formal attire for civilians.  For tickets and other information please contact LSCS(SS) Michael Murphy 619-553-8729.  Don’t feel back I didn’t know what a LS was either.  It is a Logistics Specialist – the Navy combined the SK/PC and other ratings.

It was decided by the membership to move the June meeting to the 27th to avoid a conflict with Fathers Day.  It will be held at Sizzlers.

Our 2nd Anniversary meeting scheduled for July 18th will be held at Ballast Point, Naval Submarine Base Point Loma, Naval Base Point Loma, commencing at 1100.  This will be a potluck picnic meeting with a chance to tour a submarine if one is in port and available to us.  That of course is entirely up to SUBRON 11. Changes in the requirements of SUBRON 11 have reduced the number of submarine visitors to only 25.  I hope many of you will be able to attend this function.  They last picnic held here had a fantastic turnout and a good time was had by all.

That is about it for this edition of this missive.  I would like to thank each and every one of the members of Trieste Base for making the Base the best in USSVI.  I look forward to seeing each of you at the next meeting on March 21, 2010 at Sizzlers.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

January 2010

To all members of Trieste Base,

Greetings, I will take this opportunity to wish all of you a Happy New Year.

We held our January meeting on Sunday the 17^th, at Sizzlers.  15 members and 7 wives were in attendance.  Also attending were 3 guests who have or are in the process of becoming members of Trieste Base.  Join me in welcoming to Trieste Base, Jimmy Carriaga, Terrence Wiggins and Hal Cope.  This will bring our total membership to 41 members.

I would like to announce that all members have renewed national for 2010 with only one member who still needs to pay local dues.  Thank you all for continuing to be members in what I prejudicially think is the best Base in USSVI.

During the meeting I handed out longevity awards of 1-year service to Carl Farris and Chuck Casey and 5-year service recognition to Harvey Green.

I also still have the fundraiser in progress for the base.  If you are interested in participating in this fundraiser please contact me. Cost is, no time of yourself, and is only $10.  So help the base out and chip in.   Eligibility to participate ends on January 29, 2010.

Our base secretary, Todd Miller has finished the inaugural edition of the “Trieste Dive Log”.  He is interested in feedback on how this newsletter can be made the best in USSVI.  So support Todd and give him any comments, criticisms or critiques.  If you have any articles that you would like published send them to Todd for inclusion in the next addition of the “Dive Log” or if you would like to assist Todd in this worthy endeavor let him know. I am sure he could use the help.

Base elections are in progress.  The nominating committee will be sending out ballots to all current members of the base.  Be sure and vote then return the ballot to the nominating committee.  You the members are the cornerstone of the base and your decisions will impact the future of the base for the next 2 years.

Speaking of elections – It is now time to start thinking seriously about the upcoming national elections for National Commander, National Senior Vice Commander, National Junior Vice Commander, Treasurer and Secretary.  So as candidates publish their Bio’s and statements of candidacy they will be made available to the membership.  At our meeting one candidate for the office of National Commander presented himself to the assembled membership.  That candidate would be our own T. Michael Bircumshaw, currently the National Junior Vice Commander.

My pet project continues – and I still desperately need your help. So I am imploring, nay, begging that those individuals who have not as of yet sent in their “THEN” photo of when you were a hot runnin’ steely eyed killer of the deep, do so at the earliest possible convenience.  There are 15 still needed.  Please send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website.  I would like to have 100% participation on this project.  For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

In addition to the above project, which isn’t completed, I have also started a new one. I would like biographies from each base member to post on the website and include in the newsletter.  So please sit down and put pen to paper or cursor to monitor and pound out a short, or not so short, synopsis of you and your time in the Navy.  You know in short a biography of yourself.

And finally, if you haven’t already done so please log on to www.ussvi.org and register on the website.  It is a great tool that can be used to find shipmates and other great information.

Our next meeting is scheduled for February 21, 2010 at Sizzler’s.  I would like to see everyone there.

That about does it for this month.  If there is anything I have forgotten between now and next meeting I will send out an addenda.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander
Base Commander
Trieste Base, USSVI
EMCS(SS), USN (Ret.)
SS-582, SS-574, DSV-3
www.triestebase.org

December 2009

Greetings Members,

First off I would like to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and the hope for a Very Prosperous New Year.

So it is now time for the December edition of the Base Commanders corner.

We held our December meeting on the 20^th at Sizzler's restaurant.  14 members and 7 wives attended.

I would like to announce that all members have renewed for 2010 with the exception of one member.  If you would like to continue your association with the Submarine Veterans please send the required dues to our treasurer, Bob Cox.

On December 5, 2009 the base participated in the City of Hemet Old Fashioned Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park. From the report from members who were involved it was a worthwhile event. It was even mentioned that next year we should participate in the parade.

At the meeting I handed out a longevity award to Jim Hayes for 10 years continuous membership in USSVI.  Well done, Jim.

We had a guest speaker from Rotary International, Frank Donahoe, who spoke about a fund raising opportunity for the base. This will be discussed at the January meeting.

I also have a fundraiser in progress for the base.  If you are interested in participating in this fundraiser please contact me.  Cost is, no time of yourself, and is only $10.  So help the base out and chip in.

We need submissions for the upcoming issue of the “Trieste Dive Log” our base newsletter.  If you have any articles please send them to Todd Miller our Newsletter editor.

Time to start thinking about who you want running your base for the next election cycle.  Those positions that are open are Base Commander, Vice Commander, Treasurer and Secretary.  If you know of someone you would like to nominate please ask the individual and confirm that they would like the job prior to nominating them.  Does no good to elect someone if they don’t want the job.  Our nominating committee is T. Michael Bircumshaw, Mike Williamson and Rick Bingham.  Contact these individuals with your nominations for inclusion on the ballot.   Nominations will close at the end of the January meeting.

Speaking of elections – if you haven’t already done so please submit your ballots for the Western District 6 commander position to me NLT January 7, 2009 so I may forward them to the Western Region Commander.  Or you can send your votes directly to Jim Dunn jimandjean@jjdunn.com 

My pet project continues – and I desperately need your help   I still need “then” photos from 12 members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display.  Please send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website. I would like to have 100% participation on this project.  For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

In addition to the above project I also have started a new one. I would like biographies from each base member to post on the website.  So please sit down and put pen to paper or cursor to monitor and pound out a short, or not so short, synopsis of your time in the Navy.

And finally, if you haven’t already please log on to www.ussvi.org and register on the website.  It is a great tool that can be used to find shipmates and other great information.

Our next meeting is scheduled for January 17, 2009 at Sizzler’s.  Hope to see everyone there.

That about does it for this month.  If there is anything I have forgotten between now and next meeting I will send out an addenda.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

November 2009

Greetings Members,

It is time for the November installment of the Base Commanders corner.  That monthly dispatch from your Base Commander to keep you informed of the latest happenings of the base.

I have just returned from the November meeting, which was held at our new location, Sizzler Steak House on Murrieta Hot Springs Road.  The restaurant was a great host for the meeting.  Attending were 18 members, 9 wives and 1 guest from the Bonefish Base.

I must start this off on a sad note.  In the last month we lost a shipmate and base member.  Bill Hagendorn, Life member of SVWWII, USSVI and Trieste Base went On Eternal Patrol on 11/08/2009.  He will be greatly missed.  Bill was a WWII veteran who missed going to sea on the USS Growler (SS-215) on her last patrol due to a medical condition.  Rest your oars, shipmate. You stand relieved.  We have the watch.

I have been harping on the membership about DUES!!!!!!  That theme continues this month.  DUES!!!!!!  They are due NLT December 31, 2009.  Now is the time to pay your dues if you are a yearly member.  Please do not wait until the 31st.  The monies still have to make it to National.  Time has a nasty habit of rapidly creeping up on you.  There are 38 members in Trieste base and 21 are National life members.  That leaves 17 yearly members.  You know who you are.  Send your dues directly to Bob Cox our treasurer or give them to him at the meetings.  Lets get this done early and not worry about it, at least until next year at this time.  We had one member pay National dues at the meeting.  Still leaves quite a few left.  There is only 1 meeting left to pay your National dues.  I would like to see the base achieve 100% renewal.  So please forgo those 5 cups of Starbucks and spend the $30 dollars, $20 national and $10 local, to maintain contact with a great group of guys who make up Trieste Base.

December 4, 2009 the base will be involved with the City of Hemet Old Fashioned Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park.  We will not march in the parade but will set up the float at the Park and have a table to sell calendars and other incidentals on Saturday December 5 from 9 to 5.  Bill Abrams has volunteered to take the float to Hemet.  Any questions please contact Bill Jonker submarine624@earthlink.net He is the point man on this project.

It was voted on by membership today to have a December meeting instead of going dark.  Our next meeting will be December 20, 2009 at 3:15 PM at Sizzlers on Murrieta Hot Springs Road.

At today’s meeting I handed out longevity awards to 5 members, John Cameron 5 years, Herman Krantz, Larry Estrada, Howard Hoyt and Del Queen all received 1-year recognition.

Wednesday November 11, 2009 was the Murrieta Veterans Day Parade.  WOW!!! Where do I begin?  The City of Murrieta again hosted a great parade.  22 shipmates represented the Submarine Veterans from 4 area bases.  Those were the host base Trieste, Bonefish from Redlands, Scamp from Escondido and San Diego.  Also there were 2 wives who participated in the parade.  Janie Bingham and Anna Hoyt.  Along with other members of the base supporting us along parade route as spectators. There were definitely more people in attendance this year than last.  The Press-Enterprise estimated the crowd at 10,000.  There were also more entries this year news reports are saying 80 entries.  Our group was #26 and when we were done with the parade and returned to the staging area there were still units waiting to depart.  At this rate the parade route may have to be extended.  Photos are posted on the webpage.  After the parade there was the ground-breaking ceremony for new Murrieta Veterans Memorial.

My pet project continues – and I desperately need your help.  I still need “then” photos from 17 members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display.  Please send them to Bob Cox (webmaster@triestebase.org) or myself for inclusion on the website.  I would like to have 100% participation on this project.  For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

In addition to the above project I also have started a new one.  I would like biographies from each base member to post on the website.  This thought came to me after the passing of Bill Hagendorn.  So please sit down and put pen to paper or cursor to monitor and pound out a short, or not so short, synopsis of your time in the Navy.  I already have one submission.  Thanks George.

Also continue to think of articles for submission in the “Trieste Dive Log” our base newsletter.  If you have any articles please send them to Todd Miller our Newsletter editor.  Place quills to parchment and submit those stories.

Time to start thinking about who you want running your base for the next election cycle.  At the meeting it was voted to amend the by-laws to have the elected base officials serve a 2-year term and serve during the calendar year.  Those positions that are open are Base Commander, Vice Commander, Treasurer and Secretary.  If you know of someone you would like to nominate please ask the individual and confirm that they would like the job prior to nominating them.  Does no good to elect someone if they don’t want the job.  Our nominating committee is T. Michael Bircumshaw, Mike Williamson and Rick Bingham.  Contact these individuals with your nominations for inclusion on the ballot.  Nominations will close at the end of the January meeting.

I also have a fundraiser in progress for the base.  If you are interested in participating in this fundraiser please contact me.  Cost is, no time of yourself, and is only $10.  So help the base out and chip in.

And finally for this month please log on to www.ussvi.org and register on the website.  It is a great tool that can be used to find shipmates and other great information.

That about does it for this month.  If there is anything I have forgotten between now and next meeting I will send out an addenda.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I extend a big THANK YOU and WELL DONE to all members for supporting this base as you do. There were 15 members of the base that participated in the parade, either marching or supporting from along the parade route. All members of this base are the reason this base is the success it has become, and for that I thank you, one and all. It has been my privilege to be your Base Commander, for the past 16 months, of such a fine group.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

October 2009

Greetings Members,

It is time for the October chapter of the Base Commanders corner.  That once a month missive from the Base Commander to keep membership informed on the happenings of the base.

Just returned from the October meeting, which was held in conjunction with a Halloween Party, at Rick and Janie Bingham’s spread.  In attendance were 6 member, 6 wives and 1 guest.  Based upon what I saw, a good time was had by all. Congratulations to Rob D’Orsi and his partner, who went undefeated in the games played.

As I started the last note, so shall I start this one with a most important topic.  DUES!!!!!!

They are due NLT December 31, 2009.  Now is the time to pay your dues if you are a yearly member.  Please do not wait until the 31st.  The monies still have to make it to National.  Time has a nasty habit of rapidly creeping up on you.  There are 39 members in Trieste base and 22 are National life members.  That leaves 17 yearly members.  You know who you are.  So please forgo those 5 cups of Starbucks and spend the $30 dollars, $20 national and $10 local, to maintain contact with a great group of guys who make up Trieste Base.  Send your dues directly to Bob Cox our treasurer or give them to him at the next meeting.  Lets get this done early and not worry about it, at least until next year at this time.

Saturday October 3, 2009 was the base picnic held at the Temecula Duck Pond.  The picnic was a great success and a group photo was taken at the veterans memorial and will be upload on the website.  Had a decent turnout and again everyone in attendance had a good time and a special THANK YOU to Bob Cox our base chef extraordinaire.

On Thursday, Oct. 22nd, I attended the dedication of the new plaque for the Roncador Memorial on the Naval Base Point Loma, formally known as Ballast Point.  Capt. Marconi hosted a luncheon at the galley for 32 members of SVWWII, good food and great sailors working at the Dolphin Inn.  The ceremony itself was excellent, I’m guessing, but it sure looked like at least 50 or more people in attendance.  Including the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, Rick West.  Mike Williamson, Base Commander, Bonefish Base, and Trieste Base member, who had taken on the project of having the new and larger plaque made, really did an outstanding job.  Capt. Marconi had the plaque mounted on the aft end of the Roncador sail, next to the 2 ready ammo lockers and had the Roncador painted it’s original WW II colors BLACK with WHITE NUMBERS.  We owe Capt Marconi and the Submarine Base Point Loma a great deal of appreciation and a big THANK YOU.  Photos will be displayed on the website.  The base donated $370 towards the completion of this projected and received back $67.53 from the Bonefish base.  This was overage.

November 11, 2009 is fast approaching. Veterans Day!!! Murrieta will be having their annual Veterans Day parade.  I have submitted an application for USSVI.  There will be in the parade 4 automobiles ranging from a 1932 Ford Towne Car to a 1992 Lincoln, including at 1956 Ford Thunderbird and a 1964 Ford Mustang which will carry 2 of our WWII base members, George Kinnison and Herman Krantz at the head of our contingent.  To be followed by T. Michael Bircumshaw towing the base float and then the 3 other cars.  So far the confirmed people participating is 17.  So if anyone out there has Veterans Day off please come out to support us by either marching or riding with us or as an audience member watching the parade.  After the parade this year there will be a ground breaking at Noon for the new Murrieta Veterans Memorial.

Also our meeting venue has changed…again due to circumstances that occurred with our current location.  Our new meeting location is Sizzler Steak House, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd, Murrieta - (951) 698-5623.  Our Treasurer will be sending out an e-mail with the menu items and prices prior to the next meeting.

Still working on my pet project – And I still need your help.  I still need “then” photos from 18 members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display.  Please send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website.  I would like to have 100% participation on this project.  For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

Our newsletter “Trieste Dive Log” will be soliciting articles and bios for our first issue due out just after the 1st of the year.  So get out the quills and inkwells and put pen to paper and submit those stories and bios to our editor Todd Miller.

It is getting that time of the year to start thinking about nominating officers for the next year.  That would be the Base Commander, Vice Commander, Treasurer and Secretary.  If you have someone you would like to nominate please ask the individual and confirm that they would like the job prior to nominating them.  Does no good to elect someone if they don’t want the job.  When the nominating committee gets firmed up it will be promulgated and your nominations can go them for inclusion on the ballot.  Also it is time for the biennial election of National Officers the nominating is underway for National and regional officers.  I sent out instructions to all who have a computer on how to register on the USSVI website.  This is the easiest way to vote in the national elections.  If anyone is having problems registering please let me know.

That about does it for this month.  If there is anything earthshaking between now and next meeting I will send out an addenda.

Lastly, but certainly not least, a big THANK YOU to all members.  You are the reason this base is the success it has become, and for that I thank you, one and all.  It is my privilege and pleasure to be the Base Commander of such a fine group.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

September 2009

Greetings Members,

It is time for another chapter of the Base Commanders corner.  That monthly missive detailing the happenings of Trieste Base.

I have just returned from the September meeting, which was attended by 17 members and 9 wives.  Today we had a couple of long distance members in attendance; Stan Reinhold and his lovely wife from Phoenix and George Ellis from Goleta, California. It was nice to see them at the meeting.

I will start this with the most important subject this month. DUES!!!!!!!!!  They are due December 31, 2009.  Now is the time to pay your dues if you are a yearly member.  Time has a nasty habit of rapidly creeping up on you.  There are 38 members in Trieste base and 21 are National life members.  One paid for multiple years.  So that leaves 16 who pay yearly national dues.  Two members paid 2010 dues today.  That leaves 14 who still need to pay their dues for the upcoming year.  You know who you are.  So please forgo those 5 cups of Starbucks and spend the $30 dollars, $20 national and $10 local, to maintain contact with a great group of guys who make up Trieste Base.

I would like to offer my congratulations to Trieste Base charter member T. Michael Bircumshaw on his selection as the 2009 Joe Negri Award winner.  This award was presented at the 2009 USSVI National convention.  Michael, it is a well-deserved award. Thank you for all you do for the base and USSVI as a whole.

Speaking of the convention I attended events at the convention the entire 7 days, while concurrently attending a boat reunion.  I have given the USSVI convention photos to the webmaster for uploading to the website.  There were a total of 9 Trieste Base members who attended all or some of the convention.  One of our members, Michael Williamson was a winner of one of the opportunity drawings.

Save Saturday October 3, 2009 on your calendar.  That is the date of the Trieste Base Picnic at the Temecula Duck Pond. Picnic is from 0900 to 1500.  It will be potluck. I have sent out the invitation via e-mail and already have a couple RSVPs’.  Hope to see a good turnout.

Our October meeting has been moved from the 18th of October to the 24th.  Rick Bingham and lovely wife Janie have graciously offered to host our October meeting/Halloween Party at their house.  Time and potluck requirements to follow.  However it was brought up at this meeting there is a scheduling conflict.  The National Junior Vice Commander mentioned that this is the same day as Scamp Base food-fest.  He will check with Rick and Janie about the schedule.  Update to follow shortly.

My pet project that I am working on is continuing – And I need your help.  I still need “then” photos from 19 members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display.  Please send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website.  I would like to have 100% participation on this project.  For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

Trieste Base library has a new addition.  There is now available, the war patrol reports for all submarines in World War II.  If you would like a particular war patrol from a boat let me know and I will copy it and sent it to you.  If you would like one of the books in the library, a listing of the books available for checkout is listed on the website.  Contact either Bob Cox or myself with the book title and it will be available to you at the next meeting.

The base donated $370 that was pledged to the upgrade of the Roncador memorial plaque.  Check was presented at the meeting to Bonefish Base commander Michael Williamson.

We had a guest speaker at the meeting today, Randy Sanders from Temecula Educational Institute who gave a short presentation on a little known VA benefit.  If anyone is interested I have the pamphlets that were handed out.

Our new newsletter has a name now.  “Trieste Dive Log”.  Look for the first edition sometime later in the year or just after the 1st.

November 11, 2009 is the Murrieta Veterans Day parade.  This year we will have our float pulled by Michael Bircumshaw and Howard Hoyt has volunteered the use of his classic Mustang for those who cannot walk the parade route.  We had a great turnout last year and this year should even be better.  After the parade this year there will be a ground breaking for the new Murrieta Veterans Memorial.  Any questions please contact me or see the flyer on the website.

That about does it for this month.  If there is anything earthshaking between now and next meeting I will send out an addenda.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I would like to thank, YOU, all the members.  It is you who have made this base the success that it has become, for that I thank you, one and all. It is my privilege and pleasure to be the Base Commander of such a fine group.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

August 2009

Greetings All,

It is again time for the Base Commanders Corner, that monthly missive to keep all members abreast of the happenings in/around and of the Trieste Base.

Having just returned from our August meeting, and it was another great turnout. We had 16 members in attendance along with 10 wives and 1 daughter, and 3 guests and 2 wives including 1 from Bonefish base.  All 3 became LIFE members of Trieste Base. Please join me in welcoming our newest members:

#34 – Gregory Smith – Qualified on USS Sealion (SS-315) in 1965
#35 – George Ellis – Qualified on USS Bashaw (SS-241) in 1962
#36 – Jacques Abels – Qualified on USS Thresher (SS-200) in 1942
#37 – John Cameron – Qualified on USS Becuna (SS-319) in 1958
#38 – Harold “Hal” Buck – Qualified on USS Flying Fish (SS-229) in 1949

Greg lives in Perris but currently has family obligations he is taking care of. Hope to see him soon at a meeting.  George is an out of area member living in Goleta.  He served on Trieste as A-Eng and COB.  Hope to meet you one day at one of our meetings.  Jacques is a WWII Submarine Veteran who is also a member of the Bonefish Base.  Due to his WWII service it was voted, unanimously to issue him an Honorary Life Membership in Trieste Base.  John is also a member of Razorback base who also joined Trieste Base as a Life Member.  Hal was a Member at Large (MAL), now he has a place to call home. Hal also became a Life Member of Trieste Base.

Welcome aboard guys. You have joined a great base comprised of a fantastic group of guys, even if I do say so myself.

Anyway back to the task at hand:

At the rate the base is growing it is a good thing we changed our meeting location.  The only problem I foresee is if we get much larger we will need to find yet another venue to hold our meetings.  The Richie's room only holds 57 people. 32 people were present today.

In that same vein, it was voted upon at the meeting that due to constraints placed on us by Richie's that our meeting time has been changed to 3:15 PM.  This is due to the room not being available to us until straight up 3 PM.  So the room is reserved from 3 to 5 PM, which will allow a little time to relax before diving right into the meeting.  3rd Sunday is still the day of the meeting.  Next meeting September 20th, mark your calendars.  And again due to the requirements of the location I will need a good head count for our meetings.  It is important that I get an RSVP from everyone.

Our October meeting has been moved from the 18th of October to the 24th.  Rick and Janie Bingham have graciously offered to host our October meeting/Halloween Party at their house.  Time and potluck requirements to follow.

A project that I am working on is continuing – And I need your help.  I still need “then” photos from 21 members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display.  Please send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website.  I would like to have 100% participation on this project.  For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

Trieste Base now has a library.  A listing of the books available for checkout is listed on the website.  Contact either Bob Cox or myself with the book title and it will be available to you at the next meeting.

DUES! DUES! DUES! - It is now late August – never too early to start thinking about renewing your annual dues.  Time has a nasty habit of creeping up rapidly on you. How is that for an oxymoron, creeping up rapidly?  So start saving the pennies and get your national and local dues in as soon as possible. Don’t want anyone going dink.  Start saving now.  Christmas is coming and I don’t want you to have to forgo getting your loved one a present just to pay your dues.  National dues are $20/year and local dues are $10/year.  For the National LIFE members please disregard the writing in this paragraph.

The base allocated $200 to purchase the trailer that our float presently resides on.

Also 50/50 opportunity drawing tickets are still available for sale.  The tickets help the funding of the convention and more importantly, to me, our base.  So I need help in getting the tickets sold.  $5 of every ticket goes into our treasury. Drawing will be at the National Convention Banquet September 12.  I will be at the convention so when my name is called I can collect the top prize in person.

Speaking of the convention I will be attending the USSVI convention along with attending the Grayback reunion, one of many boats, holding a concurrent reunion.  Hope to see some base mates at the National Convention.  I hope to have a slide show of the convention ready in time for our September meeting.

It was voted on and approved, to have a speaker at our September meeting.  Randy Sanders from Temecula Educational Institute will talk about a VA program.  Doesn’t cost anything to listen.  Should be no longer than 5 or 10 minutes.

Also I would like to thank Dan Resley for stepping up and “volunteering” to be the Base Storekeeper.  And to Todd Miller who has taken on the collateral duty of trying to start a base newsletter.  Look for the first edition sometime later in the year or just after the 1st.  Also I am asking for volunteers for the following positions:  Chaplain and COB.

That about does it for this month.  If there is anything earthshaking between now and next meeting I will send out an addenda.

Lastly, I would like to thank all the members.  It is you who have made this base the success that it has become, for that I thank you, one and all.  It is my privilege and pleasure to be the Base Commander of such a fine group.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

July 2009

Greetings All,

It is time again for the Base Commanders Corner, the monthly missive to keep all members abreast of the happenings of the Trieste Base.

I just returned from our 1st Anniversary meeting and what a great turnout today. We had 18 members in attendance along with 8 wives, and 6 guests and 1 wife including 2 from Bonefish base and 4 who became members of Trieste Base. Please join me in welcoming our newest members:

#31 – Herbert Espiritu (Tony) – Qualified on USS Caiman (SS-323)
#32 – Bill Abrams – Qualified on USS Andrew Jackson (SSBN-619)
#33 – Robert D’Orsi – Qualified on USS Blackfin (SS-322)
#34 – Dick Zimmer (Doc) – Qualified on USS Trumpetfish (SS-425)

Welcome aboard guys. You have joined a great base comprised of a fantastic group of guys, even if I do say so myself.

Anyway back to the task at hand:

On the 4th of July, 6 members of the base, along with our float traveled to Fontana Raceway and participated in the Red, White and Cruise 4th of July parade. The one thing I will say is that there was definitely a larger crowd than was in Riverside for the Salute to Veterans parade. If it hadn’t been for the heat and wind it would have been more enjoyable. A big thank you to T. Michael for pulling the float, and the following members who participated. Rick Bingham, Bob Cox, George Kinnison, Todd Miller and yours truly.

Our new meeting location, Richie's Diner, is a larger location, which is needed for our increased membership numbers. I would like to get feedback from the members on how you feel about the location and any other concerns you may have. Our meetings will continue to be the 3rd Sunday of each month at 3 PM. Due to the requirements of the location I will need a good head count for our meetings.

My quest is continuing – And I need your help. I still need “then” photos from members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display. Please send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website. I would like to have 100% participation on this project. For those of you who do not have scanner/e-mail capability just send the photo to me via snail mail, or give them to me at a meeting, I will scan it and return it to you.

Trieste Base now has a library. A listing of the books available for checkout is listed on the website. Contact either Bob Cox or myself with the book title and it will be available to you at the next meeting.

T. Michael Bircumshaw has stepped up and volunteered to coordinate our base picnic, which is planned for the Duck Pond in Temecula, tentatively scheduled for October 3, 2009. Mark your calendars. Details to follow.

DUES! DUES! DUES! - It is now late July – never too early to start thinking about renewing your annual dues. Time has a nasty habit of creeping up on you rapidly. So start saving the pennies and get your national and local dues in as soon as possible. Don’t want anyone going dink. For the LIFE members please disregard the writing in this paragraph.

The base also spent $35 to take out a 1/8th page color ad in the convention booklet.

Also 50/50 opportunity drawing tickets are available for sale. The tickets help the funding of the convention and more importantly, to me, our base. So I need help in getting the tickets sold. $5 of every ticket goes into our treasury.

Lastly, I would like to thank all the members who have made this base what it is. From starting out on June 1, 2008, at the American Legion Post in Lake Elsinore with 9 potential members intent in creating a new base, which was chartered on July 20, 2008, until now, one year later, we have grown to 34 members.

It is you who have make this base the success that it has become, for that I thank you one and all. It is my privilege and pleasure to be your Base Commander.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

June 2009

Greetings Trieste Base,

What a hectic last 4 weeks.  It sure was busy but I don’t feel I accomplished anything.  Anyway back to the task at hand, it is time for the Base Commanders Corner, the monthly missive to keep all members abreast of the happenings of the Trieste Base.

Our June meeting was held at Vice Commander Howard Hoyt’s house.  12 Trieste Base members, 2 Bonefish Base members and 2 guests along with 10 lovely ladies attended.  One of the guests Jim De Gange became a life member of Trieste Base.  So please join me in welcoming our 29th member.  Welcome aboard Jim and your lovely wife Sue.  Another guest was Bernie Mechanic, a non-submarine, WWII vet who regaled us with his tales.

Just around the corner is the 2009 Red, White and Cruise parade on the 4th of July at Fontana Raceway.  T. Michael Bircumshaw is the point person on this event.  I will need a firm number of entrants by June 30 so he can let the parade committee know on July 1 how many people plan to attend.  He has also volunteered to pull the Trieste Base float in the parade. Johnny Meyer the Bonefish Base COB will be driving his Model A and has room for 3 riders.  So if there are any people who would like to participate please let me know.  I will also be sending out this request in a separate mailing.

During the meeting it was decided to donate $100 to the 52 Boat memorial at Liberty Station at the former NTC.  This memorial is in the final stages of completion.

I would still like to get “then” photos from the members for the website to go with the “now” photos on display.  Send them to Bob Cox or myself for inclusion on the website.

Trieste Base now has a library.  A listing of the books available for checkout is listed on the website.  Contact either Bob Cox or myself with the book title and it will be available at the next meeting.

One important change – our meeting location has changed.  We will no longer be meeting at Carrow’s restaurant, due to our increased size.  Our new meeting location is Richie's All American Diner, 40651 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd, Murrieta, CA  (951)696-5504.  Meeting time will still be 1500 to 1700.  Due to the requirements of Richie's it is very important that they receive a good head count prior to the meeting.  Next meeting is Sunday, July 19.

It is late June – never too early to start thinking about renewing your annual dues.  Time has a nasty habit of creeping up on you rapidly.

A couple of our members have had medical issues this past month.  Both Del and Sally Queen are recuperating from medical incidents in the past month; it was good to see them both at the meeting, and ambulatory.  Richard Bingham is home recuperating from knee surgery earlier in the month and receiving physical therapy from his lovely bride Janie.

All for now, if there is anything of an immediate nature I will send out an addendum to this message.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

May 2009

Greetings Trieste Base,

The May meeting has just concluded, so time for the latest edition of the Base Commander's Corner.

There were 14 members and 1 guest in attendance at today’s meeting along with 6 lovely wives.

Our guest was Bob Bissonnette, Base Commander San Diego Base.  He informed us of events that were happening in the San Diego area.

I will be absent between now and our next meeting for about 3 weeks total.  There are a lot of events that are planned prior to the next meeting.

May 25 – Memorial Day Ceremony at the Roncador – Hope to see a good turnout from Trieste Base.

The last week of May, there are 5 scholarship presentations:
May 26 – Great Oak HS,
May 27 – Temecula Valley HS,
May 29 – Murrieta Valley HS,
May 30 – West Valley HS,
June 2 – Chaparral HS

I will be unable to participate but I would like to see Trieste Base represented.  At the very least, the Murrieta Valley HS presentation.  Please contact Michael Bircumshaw.

June 12 – USSVI National Convention Silent Auction Fund Raiser.

July 4th – Event at Fontana Raceway – Michael Bircumshaw is the point person on this event.  More information as it becomes available.

Harvey Green was presented with his longevity award at today’s meeting.

Also Howard Hoyt passed around a signup sheet for members to sign up for business cards that Howard manufactures. So if you didn’t get your name on the list but still would like some please contact Howard directly.

There is also now a base library.  The listing is on our website.  Members may check out books by informing the base librarian, yours truly, prior to a meeting.  The book will then be available until the following meeting free of charge.  However if the book is not returned at the next meeting a late fee of $1 per week will be assessed.  Books may only be checked out 1 month at a time.

June 21, 2009 meeting will be at Howard Hoyt’s house.  I will be there.  Hope to see a good turnout.

Other local meetings:
Scamp Base meeting – May 28, 2009, at 7:00 PM at the American Legion Hall in Escondido
Bonefish Base meeting – May 30, 2009 at Noon at the American Legion Post 106 in Redlands

So it will be a function packed month.  I will see you all at the next meeting.  If anything important comes up that didn’t make it into this missive I will send an addenda.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

April 2009

Greetings All,

The April meeting has just concluded, so that means time for another edition of the Base Commanders BS.

There were 14 members and 2 guests in attendance at today’s meeting along with 10 lovely wives.  Those 2 guests are now members of Trieste Base after being shanghaied by Jim Hayes.  So please join me in welcoming our newest members: Stan Reinhold from Phoenix and Dan Burkett from Riverside.  Both of these gentleman served onboard Trieste (DSV-1).  Welcome aboard.  This brings our base membership to 28.

April was a busy month.  First off, I would like to thank all those people who helped with the float construction.  Particularly, in alphabetical order, Rick Bingham, Todd Miller and Ed Yarbrough.  Without these 3 individuals this project would not have been completed.  A heartfelt BZ from your Base Commander.

The float had its maiden voyage during the “Salute to Veterans” parade in Riverside.  There were about 120 different participating groups.  Including 3 submarine floats, Trieste base, Perch base and Tucson base.  Also participating in the parade were representatives from the Bonefish base and Scamp base.  That is the good news; the bad news is that there were more participants than spectators.  Viewers along the parade route was sparse at best and at worst it was non-existent.

The newspaper article on the Trieste Base was published on April 12, 2009 in the Californian.  What a surprise to see the base on the front page.  Here is the link to the article on our website. http://triestebase.org/events/TheCalifornian090412.html

During the meeting we were treated to a presentation by Larry Estrada who explained the latest ICEX operation, ICEX 09. Besides being a Trieste base member Larry is the Director of Arctic Submarine Laboratory.  Larry brought photographs of the operation on the ice and explained the intricacies of on ice operations.  From this listeners viewpoint all I have to say is I will take the SoCal weather over the Arctic’s anytime.  Excellent presentation Larry.

Longevity awards are starting to be delivered to members.  Members receiving recognition at today’s meeting were, Bill Jonker, Jim Hayes, Bob Cox and Harvey Green (in absentia).

Our member Herman Krantz made a presentation about something that bears merit.  Starting a grassroots campaign to have the Navy start naming submarines after fish again.  This will be a long and hard fought battle.

Also as a reminder, Howard Hoyt has graciously invited the base to hold a meeting at his house.  It is planned for the June 21 meeting and will be potluck like the Sub Base meeting.  I need to start getting a head count for planning purposes.

That’s about it for now.  If I think of anything else I will send out an addenda.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

March 2009

Greetings All,

As I write this, the March meeting was just completed.  So that means time for another edition of the Base Commanders BS.

We had 12 members, 6 lovely wives and 2 guests attending this meeting.  The guests were John Hunneman and Andrew Foulk,  a reporter and  photographer from the Californian newspaper doing a piece on USSVI and the Trieste Base.  It was a pleasure to have them at the meeting even if John was a skimmer.

One of our shipmates, Evin Stump, who has been under the weather for the past couple months was in attendance looking chipper as ever.  Glad to see you back at the meeting a feeling better.

I will be sending out a reminder about the Riverside Parade.  I will need the response by the end of the week so I can submit our application.  Looks like the float will be finished in time for the parade.  A big thanks you to Todd Miller for ram-rodding this effort. The base is the proud owner of a klaxon for the float.  And according to Todd will need a working party towards the end of the month to complete the float for the parade.  So we will be putting out the call when the parts arrive to assemble and finish the float.

Our June 21st meeting is being held at Howard Hoyt’s house so will need a head count as to who will be able to attend.  This will be a potluck just as the Sub Base meeting was.

Can’t forget about the Kap (SS) 4 Kid (SS).  Scheduled for April 17 at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.  If you have never done this it is truly a worthwhile event.

One other important thing – MEMBERSHIP DRIVE – Starting 1 April to 31 July is the membership drive.  The goal is for each member to recruit at least one new member during this time frame.  So lets get out there and beat the bushes for those qualified submarine sailors.

All for now.  Hope to see everyone at the next meeting, April 19 at the usual venue. 1500 – 1700.

As can be seen the weekend of the 17th, 18th and 19th of April is a hectic one.  Kap (SS) for Kid (SS) 17th, Parade 18th, and meeting 19th.  Lets have a great Trieste Base showing at each of these events.

Bonefish Base meeting – March 28, 2009 at American Legion Post 106, Redlands, Ca
Scamp Base meeting – March 26, 2009 at American Legion Memorial Hall, Escondido, CA

As always it is you, the member, who make this the great base that it is.  To that I salute the members

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

February 2009

Greetings All,

February meeting is done and time for another edition of the Base Commanders Corner.

I apologize for the lateness of this edition but a nasty thing called work intervened.

At our latest meeting we had a phenomenal turnout. 15 members and 6 wives, who were lovely as always.  At the meeting we had a guest attend who ended up becoming a member before the meeting adjourned.

Please join me in welcoming our newest member Ed Yarbrough and his wife Marsha.  He becomes our 26th member. Welcome aboard Ed.

We have a new Base Secretary: Todd Miller has stepped up to fill that vacancy.

For those that were not at the meeting we received our base patches and I must say they look fantastic.  The metallic thread really sets them off.  I will be mailing patches to the people who weren’t at the meeting.  A big thank you to Michael Bircumshaw for getting the patches for us at a great price.  If anyone is interested in additional patches they are a modest $5.00.  All proceeds go into the base treasury.

We were also shown our new banner that will be used in parades and other functions.  Bob Cox acquired this banner at a substantial savings to the base.  Many thanks Bob.  Photo of the banner is available on the website.

Todd also brought in a mockup of a float design with construction materials that should be able to be constructed in a relatively short amount of time.  Hopefully it can be completed in time for the Riverside “Salute to Veterans” parade in April.  If you are interested in helping out with the float construction please contact Todd and see what he needs done.  Todd’s e-mail address is listed in the minutes of the last meeting.

Member Howard Hoyt has graciously invited the base to hold a meeting at his house.  I don’t think he knows what he is in for.  It is planned for the June 21 meeting and will be potluck like the Sub Base meeting.

April 18 is the Riverside Salute to Veterans parade.  Need to get a head count of those who are planning on attending. Will send participation request under SEPCOR. Hope to see a lot of you there.

Tentative Kap(SS) for Kid(SS) is scheduled for April 17 at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.  If you have never done this it is truly a worthwhile event.

All for now. Hope to see everyone at the next meeting, March 15 at the usual venue. 1500 – 1700.

As always it you the member who make this the great base that it is.  To that I salute the members.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

January 2009

Greetings All,

Well another month gone by and I hope that everyone had a safe and enjoyable New Years Eve and time for another edition of the Base Commanders BS.

I have just returned from our monthly meeting and let me just say I was amazed by the turnout at our meeting today.  At the meeting today there were 9 regular members along with 4 attractive wives and 7, yes 7 guests.  3 of who are now new members. 2 more will submit applications.

So please join me in welcoming into the base:

- Harvey Green – Qualified 1956 - USS Atule (SS-403), Holland Club member
- Harold B. Williams – Qualified in 1953 - USS Ronquil (SS-396), Holland Club member
- Dan Resley – Qualified 1968 – USS Spinax (SS-489)

During the meeting member Rick Bingham showed his award and photos of his 1st place finish in the Silverman Triathlon, which was held Sunday, November 9th, 2008, featuring a 2.4 mile swim in Lake Mead, a 112 mile bike ride, and a 26.2 mile run.  I heartily salute him for his effort and finish.  Hell, I am worn out just thinking about doing it.

Rick, again, Congratulations on your outstanding accomplishment.

There are a few plans for base activities bandied about today.  It was brought up by the Vice Commander that with such a great time at Sub Base SD that maybe a joint picnic/meeting with Bonefish Base somewhere in the inland empire area.  I whole-heartedly agree with that and will work to make that happen.

Also it is getting to be baseball season again and with a stadium just a few miles down the road I suggested a “Boats at the Ballgame” day.  Todd Miller will get the info from the Storm as to what the cost will be per person.

Our NJVC Michael Bircumshaw brought up a parade coming up in April in Riverside. More on this as it develops.
Our next meeting will be held February 15, 2009, 1500 to 1700 at Carrows Restaurant, 24640 Madison Avenue, Murrieta, CA 92562.  Again wives are encouraged to attend.  They are very much more pleasing on the eye than a bunch of ol'run down submarine sailors.

Again I would like to thank you all. You are what make this base work.  Looking forward to seeing all of you at the next meeting.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

December 2008

Greetings All,

Here it is almost Christmas and time for another edition of the Commanders Corner.

First, I would like to take a moment and wish all the members and their families a Very Merry Christmas and a most prosperous and Happy New Year.  If you are traveling out of the area please have a safe and uneventful trip.

As I write this I have just returned from our meeting at Submarine Base Point Loma.  It was a joint meeting with the Bonefish Base.  Photos will be posted on the website.

Attending the meeting were 13 members and 8 beautiful wives from the Trieste Base and Bonefish Base was represented with 7 members and 5 lovely wives.  Also in attendance was the Commanding Officer of the Submarine Base, Paul Marconi and his family.  That was a pleasant and welcome addition to our gathering.

The potluck luncheon started at 1200 with great food provided by the members.  The monthly raffle was held during lunch after which the gentlemen, I use that term loosely, adjourned to the Roncador Memorial and the joint meeting of Trieste and Bonefish was held.

After the meeting the guys and gals had the pleasure of a tour of the USS Helena (SSN-725).  The duty section gave us a grand tour of the boat.  When I spoke with the duty Chief he informed me it was his pleasure to have us on board.

This function that was held today was a direct result of all who were involved.  Without you this could not have happened. I thank you for your participation and support of our base.

Our next meeting will be January 18, 2009 at our regular meeting place.

Until then please have a safe and enjoyable Holiday Season.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

November 2008

Greetings All,

It is that time again.  Yet another month gone by.  So it is time for the Base Commanders monthly.

At our most recent meeting there were 10 members and 6 gorgeous wives in attendance.  We also had 2 guests at the meeting. John Cameron from the Razorback Base and Sean, sure hope I have the right spelling, a reporter from a local newspaper “The Valley News” doing an article on USSVI and Trieste Base in particular.

I would like to introduce our newest member:  Carl Farris.  Chuck Casey coerced Carl into coming to the meeting.  Chuck, thank you!  Carl qualified in 1952 on the USS Greenfish (SS-351).  This brings our base membership total to 22 members.  Carl welcome aboard.  It was a pleasure to meet you!

During the meeting one of our members, Herman Krantz, was inducted into the Holland Club with T. Michael Bircumshaw, NJVC USSVI doing the honors and presenting Herman with his presentos.  The customary “Grip and Grin” photo is on the website. Congratulations Herman!

As I write this, November 24, I would like to take this time to wish all our members a very Happy Thanksgiving.  Please enjoy the holiday.  For those of you traveling out of area have a safe journey.  And remember any dessert consumed on Thanksgiving has no calories… or so I have been told.

Our next meeting will be held at the Submarine Base Point Loma.  December 21, 2008 from 1200 to 1600 at Smugglers Cove. It will be in conjunction with a potluck picnic involving the Trieste Base, Bonefish Base and Scamp Base.  Our meeting will be a joint meeting with Bonefish Base.  More particulars via separate correspondence when details are firmed up.

I still have a few 2009 USSVI calendars for sale for those of you who are having difficulty in deciding what to get people for Xmas. They are inexpensive and make a great gift for the low, low price of $10.  All proceeds from the calendar sale are returned to the base.

Other area Base happenings:

Scamp Base in Escondido will be having their Christmas dinner on December 7, and they have generously invited the Trieste Base members to attend.  It will be December 7, 2:00 PM at Bistro 221, 221 East Grand Ave in Escondido.  Cost is $32 dollars per person, which covers Dinner/Dessert/Tax and Tip. Happy Hour from 1400 to 1500 and Dinner served at 1500.  If you are planning on attending please contact either Len Heiselt or Dennis Kimmel of Scamp Base.  Your base commander will be there.

And finally, I would like to thank those each of you who attended yesterdays meeting. You are who make this an enjoyable and successful base.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

Mid-November 2008

Greetings All,

Thought I would send out a mid-month message about the goings on of the Trieste Base.

Several members of the Trieste Base, Myself, Bob Cox, Michael Williamson and Michael Bircumshaw were joined by members of the Bonefish Base and Scamp Base in Murrieta early this morning to participate in the 6th Annual Murrieta Veterans Day Parade.

 For photos please visit our Event Photographs section on this website. 

I also have a couple of new items for the raffle.

October 2008

Greetings All,

Another month has gone by.  Where does the time go?  Seems, as I get older the time passes more quickly.  In the last month we had one new member join our fold making our total membership 21.  At our most recent meeting there were 12 members and 5 lovely wives in attendance.

I would like to introduce our newest member: Howard Hoyt

As I write this, October 19, I have recently returned from participating in the Loma Linda Hometown Heroes Parade.  I must say it was a great parade, a lot of floats, marching bands and other units along with probably 2,000 people in attendance to watch the parade. And that is probably a low number.  I lost count.  The weather was great, in the upper 70's to low 80's. The Scamp Base loaned us the USS Catfish float and Johnny Meyer, a Bonefish Base, member had his Ford model "A" there also.  The Loma Linda University Hospital broadcast a live feed to the hospital and children’s hospital so those bedridden could view the parade. I have a few photos from prior to the parade I will give the webmaster and see if they can't be uploaded onto the site.  The people who lined the street were very generous in their applause towards a bunch of old submariners.  Many salutes and Thank yous were directed our way.  It was a great event that I hope Trieste base can participate in next year.

Our next meeting regularly scheduled for November 16 has been moved to November 23rd due to a scheduling conflict with our room.  The 23rd is the Sunday prior to Thanksgiving and I hope that those who are not traveling out of area will be able to attend and those that are traveling will postpone their travel until Monday the 24th and join us.

The meeting will be held at our normal meeting place.  Directions and reminders to be sent in a separate correspondence.

Other area Base meetings:

Bonefish Base in Redlands will have their meeting on Saturday Oct. 25th at The Mexico Café, 892 East Highland Ave. San Bernardino.

Scamp Base in Escondido will have their meeting in conjunction with the Food Fest they are hosting on November 1.  The flyer is here.

I still have 2009 USSVI calendars for sale for those of you who are having difficulty in deciding what to get people for Xmas. They are inexpensive and make a great gift for the low, low price of $10.  All proceeds from the calendar sale are returned to the base.

Member Rick Bingham put forth an invitation to a Halloween party to be held October 25th at his home.  Particulars will be sent via e-mail. Rick requests that those that plan to attend RSVP.

And finally, I would like to thank those each of you who attended yesterdays meeting.  You are who make this a successful base.

Fraternally yours,
Kent Weekly
Trieste Base Commander

September 2008

Greetings All,

Another month down and another month of growth for the Trieste Base. We currently have 20 members in our base. There were 14 members at the most recent meeting along with 8 attractive wives and daughter.

Our next meeting will be held October 18th vice the scheduled 19th due to a conflict with the Loma Linda Hometown Heroes parade scheduled for the 19th of October. At this time the meeting is still scheduled for our normal location. If this changes the membership will be updated as to the new location. Again wives are encouraged to attend. They are more pleasing on the eye than a bunch of ol'crusty submarine sailors.

We had the privilege and honor of having 3 WWII submarine veterans at our meeting and all received complimentary lifetime memberships into the Trieste Base. I for one am looking forward to hearing more of their exploits in the future. All 3 of the individuals qualified in 1943. Thank you for your service to this country. You are our legacy and what we younger gents strive to emulate.

As for the Hometown Heroes parade. Please let me know if you plan to attend the parade. I do hope that we will have a great turnout from our membership in support of this event. This will be a joint effort between the SoCal bases.

Other area base meetings:

Scamp Base in Escondido will have their meeting on Thursday Sept. 25th at 1900.

Bonefish Base in Redlands will be having their meeting on Saturday Sept 27th at 1200.

2009 USSVI calendars are in. If you were one of the ones who didn't get one at the meeting there are still a few left. This, in my most humble opinion is by far and away the best calendar to date. You can have one of your very own for the low, low price of $10.00 US money. Great for an inexpensive Xmas gift. Buy 2 for only $20.00. Can't beat a deal like that. All proceeds from the calendar sale are put back into the base.

A patch for the base was selected and will be available at a future date for purchase. Again all proceeds benefiting the base.

I would to introduce our newest members:

Del Queen
Chuck Casey
Larry Estrada
George Kinnison
Herman Krantz
Bill Hagendorn

And finally, I would like to thank each and everyone one who contributed to the meeting today. You are who make this a successful base.

Fraternally yours,

Kent Weekly
Base Commander
Trieste Base USSVI

August 2008

Greetings All,

Well another month gone by and another meeting.  There were six members present along with 3 lovely wives.

Our next meeting will be held September 21, 2008 from 1500 to 1700 at Carrows Restaurant, 24640 Madison Avenue, Murrieta, CA  92562.  Again wives are encouraged to attend.  They are more pleasing on the eye than a bunch of ol'crusty submarine sailors.

The Base By-laws were approved during the meeting and are posted on the website for your perusal along with the minutes (.pdf) of the meeting.

Bonefish base is having their meeting on August 23, 2008 at Noon.  The location 1588 West Highland Ave. San Bernardino, CA. 92411 at the MUG restaurant.  For those you curious enough to attend.

If anyone is going to the National convention in Dallas.  Take lots of photos to share.

Also received notification that it is time to order the 2009 USSVI calendars.  Start thinking about how many the base needs and the cost.  It will be a subject of new business next meeting.  Price is below: The prices have been increased this year with a portion or each calendar sale going to the upkeep of the memorial boats.  Below is a breakdown of the prices per calendar:

1-5                   $11.95
6-10                  $10.50
11-25                $9.00
26-50                $8.00
51-75                $6.00
76-100              $5.25
101-150            $4.75
151+                $4.50

That is about all for now.  If I think of anything else will send out an addendum.

Fraternally yours,

Kent Weekly
Base Commander
Trieste Base USSVI

July 2008

Greetings All,

Well it is now official, we are an official part of USSVI. We were presented with our base charter on Sunday July 20, 2008.

There were 8 base members, 3 guests and 4 wives on hand to witness the event.
The Base officers were sworn in and the CHARTER was presented to the base commander by our very own member, Michael Bircumshaw, WD6 commander.

Our next meeting will be August 17, 2008, from 1500 to 1700 at Carrows Restaurant, 24640 Madison Avenue, Murrieta, CA 92562.

I am enclosing a copy of the Trieste Base By-laws.  Please read it over.  We will be voting on its acceptance at the next meeting and will speed things along
if everyone is familiar with it prior to the meeting.

A few items coming up prior to the next meeting:

Deep Submergence Unit (DSU) is hosting an open house August 1 and 2 from 0900 to  1600.  They are located on North Island Naval Air Station, Coronado, California.

Scamp Base will have a Kap(ss) 4 Kid(ss) Presentation at the Loma Linda Children's Hospital in August.

That is about all for now.


Kent Weekly
Base Commander
Trieste Base USSVI