USS Raton Shipmate Correspondenc

From: Bill Decker [bdecker@shentel.net]
Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 8:29 AM
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;
Subject: Shipmate Correspondence

1) I received a Christmas card from Shipmate MoMM2(SS) Adolph Sivik, 1944-1945, and he stated he was sorry that he would not be able to attend the upcoming reunion. He said he is restricted to local travel due to his health. He sent $5 to help with expenses for the reunion and sends his best. If you would like to send him a card: Al Sivik, C/O Eileen McGinnity, Apt D, 5 Anderson Way, N. Dartmouth, MA 02747

2) I received a Christmas card from Shipmate MMCS(SS) James Berry, 1963-1964, and he stated that he had suffered a heart attack recently, but was recovering. He hopes to see all his Shipmates in WI next year health permitting. If you would like to send him a card: James Berry, 1403 North U. Street, Pensacola, FL 32505-6463 or call (850) 436-4463

3) I received an email from Shipmate YNC(SS) Ernie Taggart, 1963-1964, which told me to hold the emails until further notice since he would be in and out of the hospital for the next few months. He did not elaborate but it sounds like he has health problems as well. If you would like to send him a card: Ernest Taggart, P O Box 1365, Silverdale, WA 98383

4) And lest not forget those that have been struggling with their health for a while:

a. Shipmate RM2(SS) Dick Bondi, 1945-1946, recovering from garrison bon syndrome and a stroke, 250 Main Street, Dansville, NY 11437-1139, (585) 335-3215

b. Shipmate ENC(SS) Biff Baker, 1960-1967, who has had some health problems the last few months but is getting back up to speed, 223 Baypoint Drive, Mountain Home, AR 72653-7035, (870) 492-5933

c. Shipmate JO1(SS) Charlie Hazard, 1948-1950, who had open heart surgery earlier this year and is recovering, 3390 Oak Trees Court, Antioch, TN 37013-1245, (615) 361-0954

d. Shipmate EN1(SS) Mel Sprinkle, 1964-1965, who has been battling cancer and heart attacks for the past several years, 1350 Sutter Street Apt 1, San Francisco, CA 94109-5412, (415) 749-0825

I know that this list is certainly not all inclusive but this is the only ones that I am aware of. All of us Raton Shipmates are getting up in age and health is one of our highest concerns. That's why I am hoping that if you are able that you will consider the Manitowoc reunion next 12-15 July. This may be the last opportunity you will have to see your aging Shipmates.