EPILOG
Halibut NL 2008

It's over.  I wish that it could have lasted just a little longer- like my first ride on a Carousel- or that Summer vacation, when I bought a new convertible and met a special girl.  What spirit, what camaraderie, we were on the mess decks again, and we shared- and shared- just as when we were in Halibut.  This was indeed a very special event.

Our COB, David Aldrich, presided over our regular business meeting on Thursday afternoon.  We elected a new COB and ACOB, affirmed by acclimation the excellent job performed by co-treasurer Tim Bartholomew, who will remain our Treasurer.  A Co-Treasurer also was elected.  We exchanged some ideas concerning the 2010 reunion.  Unfortunately Jim O'Brien, our ACOB was taken seriously I'll Tuesday, and was unable to attend our reunion.  Last I heard Jim was home from the Hospital and doing well.  We'll see you next time, Jim.  This has been a summary, but there will be more information on the meeting and elections in the near future.  Everyone got lots of free time after the meeting.  I heard there was some brisk business at that posh watering hole: Ernie's (of Bank Street).            

Dick Kanning brought our late shipmate Rick Larson's Halibut memorabilia collection to put on display.  Rick's collection will remain, in safe keeping, with our association.  Dave Adcock brought a really special item: the original ships bell, which was also put on display, and was tolled as the names of our deceased shipmates were spoken.  The ships bell will remain, in safe keeping, with our Association, and will toll in remembrance of our departed shipmates at future reunions.  Significant artifacts were pledged by Hal Brown and Doc Gipson to our USS Halibut collection.  There will be a full report regarding our efforts on the Artifacts Collection Project Web Page.

Friday we had a most enjoyable day touring the Submarine Base, the USS Nautilus, and the Navy Submarine Museum.  Actually, if not for John "Ole" Olson taking charge of the navigational duties for the bus driver, we may have toured Westerly RI instead of the for mentioned venues.  Friday evening was Chili Night (also talk like a Pirate Day- me Buckoos) at the USSVI Groton Base clubhouse.  More chili - more Beer.

Saturday's banquet was excellent: Good company.  Good food.  Lots of good conversation.  Lots of lighthearted banter.  Good times.  There was, however, our usual solemn moment when we remember our departed shipmates by speaking their names, as the bell tolls for each shipmate on "Eternal Patrol".  

Shipmate Roger Dunham, our principal speaker, spoke eloquently of the symbiotic relationship, which existed not only between crew and submarine, but also of the bond between shipmates; which can be understood only by men who have routinely experienced great danger, privation, and high accomplishments.  We presented Roger a token of our esteem and thanks for his accomplishments writing about Halibut, and his strong, unwavering support over the past years for our Association's projects and events.

Year 2010 we will celebrate USS Halibut's 50th year since her commissioning.  Soon we will be seeking volunteers for the 2010 Reunion Committee.  Keep an eye on the Web page.

Additionally, your Webmaster express his appreciation to the Association, for their acknowledgement of his efforts on behalf of the USS Halibut Veteran's Association.  I am honored to be associated with men such as yourselves.