Deerin’s Dialogue
Today, my dear friends, I wish to offer belated congratulations to those men that former NBC journalist Tom Brokaw referred to as part of the Greatest Generation and hope you all enjoyed last Sundays Fathers Day.
I must say I enjoyed the entire weekend. On Saturday I attended DE Day at the Naval Weapons Station Earle in Leonardo. The program included a Memorial Service honoring those US Navy and US Coast Guard men that served on destroyer escort ships during World War II, and most particularly those who lost their lives in the line of duty. There were 100 that attended the memorial service.
The annual affair is sponsored by the Garden State Chapter of DESA (Destroyer Escort Sailors Association) headed by Jim Mitchell of Interlaken. The ceremony, attended by 100 former DE sailors, some accompanied by their wives who make up the DE Auxiliary, was indeed an embodiment of the spirit and pride that runs high amongst those that served on what some call one of the wars most effective ships.
The program began with a Call to Attention, parade and posting of colors under the direction of Chief Master at Arms, Hans Semple, USN, followed by the singing of our National Anthem and a salute to our flag, all led by Julia Manhart, president of the chapters auxiliary. James Mitchell, chapter trustee welcomed everyone and read a proclamation from Governor Corzine setting the third Saturday of June as Destroyer Escort Day throughout New Jersey.
Following the ceremonies we all had lunch at Bahrs in Atlantic Highlands. There the watery eyes evident amongst many of the Salty Sailors earlier in the day disappeared and were replaced by smiling faces, hearty handshakes and exchanges of stories relevant to the times we all had over 60 years ago.
In addition to reminiscing about our old DE days the conversations covered a multitude of subjects unrelated. I was fortunate to be assigned a seat at Trustee Mitchells table. On my left was Frank Ficuciello of Beminister and his daughter Ann Marie of the Bronx, NewYork. Others at the table were Bernie and Dorothy Hyduke of Clark, Jean and John Martorama residents of Seabrook in Tinton Falls and Jim and Kathleen Mitchell. The chit chat was interesting and a feeling of comradery prevailed throughout. We spoke of the progress being made in Asbury Parks development, our memories of time spent in Newark, and of course the Yankees and Mets.
I found it interesting to be informed that a total of 1303 De sailors representing 141 different DEs were killed in action during WW II. I wish I could say Ive been an active member of DESA, but to date my contributions to the great organization leave much to be desired.
A few words dedicated to the memory of DE sailors were most appropriate.
They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the hearts condemn.
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we shall remember them.
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