NAVAL WEATHER SERVICE ASSOCIATION

An association of Aerographers & Mates,
Meteorologists & Oceanographers

NWSA Hampton Roads Chapter

 

hamptonroads@navalweather.org

 

 

President             Fay Crossley

Vice President     Frank Muscari
Treasurer             Bob Daigle
Secretary             Fay Crossley
Social Coord.      Dennis Pauly
CMAA                   Frank Muscari 

 

 


Chapter News

Source: Aerograph May 2024

FRIENDS = SHIPMATES

1…..A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked.” - Bernard Meltzer- - - radio host (call in advise)

2…..“There is no possession more valuable than a good and faithful friend.” - Socrates

3…..“The only way to have a friend is to be one.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

4…..“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it’s a friend with chocolate.” - Linda Grayson - - - - artist

5….."I don't need a friend who changes when I change and who nods when I nod; my shadow does that much better." -Plutarch - - - Greek Philosopher

6….."Wishing to be friends is quick work, but friendship is a slow ripening fruit." -Aristotle

NORTH vs. SOUTH

The North has Bloomingdale's, the South has Dollar General. The North has coffee houses, the South has Waffle Houses. The North has dating services, the South has family reunions. The North has switchblade knives; the South has Lee Press-on Nails. The North has double last names; the South has double first names.The North has Indy car races; The South has stock car races. North has Cream of Wheat, the South has grits. The North has green salads, the South has collard greens. The North has lobsters, the South has crawfish. The North has the rust belt; the South has the Bible Belt.

IF YOU MOVE TO THE SOUTH


Don't be surprised to find movie rentals and bait in the same store... Do not buy food at this store. Remember, 'Y'all' is singular, 'all y'all' is plural, and 'all y'all's' is plural possessive.                         Get used to hearing 'You ain't from round he re, are ya?' Save all manner of bacon grease. You will be instructed later on how to use it. Don't be worried at not understanding what people are saying. The proper pronunciation you learned in school is no longer proper. Be advised that 'He needed killin.' is a valid defense here. If there is the prediction of the slightest chance of even the smallest accumulation of snow, your presence is required at the local  grocery store for milk and bread.

THOUGHTS TO LIVE BY


1…..”Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.” —Vernon Law

2….."Life is a succession of lessons that must be lived to be understood."  --Helen Keller

3…..“The journey of 1,000 miles begins with one step.” — Lao Tzu (Chinese philosopher)

4…..“I never won a fight in the ring; I always won in preparation.” — Muhammad Ali

5…..“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” — Eleanor Roosevelt


GOOD OF THE ORDER

AKERS, (daughter Sharon) is welcomed into the HRC family. 

CLARK, Kathi is doing okay.  She has spent a few days in the hospital with “the virus” but is back with flying colors to her health care facility. 

CROSSLEY, Donna and Fay have been dealing with that “cough” mess that has been going around. 

DAIGLE, Carol continues to “doctor” for her lung situation.  Operation may be scheduled soon.  Bob is doing well, got to love him and his coffee cup. 

MUSCARI, Eve and Frank are doing well. 

NELSON, Ed and wife Ruth are doing well. 

PAULY, Dennis and Susan are doing well and looking forward to perhaps hosting the NWSA Historian when they visit the East Coast.

SALVATO, Jack is having operation 4/25 due to kidney issues. Our thoughts and prayers are with him as he goes through this transition. 

SHAFER, Steve and Sylvia, no news.

STEINBRUCK,  Capt. Chuck and Louise, no news.

WRIGHT, Bob no news.

The Spring HRC meeting has been delayed in anticipation NWSA Historian visit to area.

Respectfully submitted:

Fay M. Crossley   HRC Secretary





Click Image to Enlarge
Submitted by Fay Crossley, HRC Pres./Sec.
Source: Aerograph February 2024

HRC MOURNS THE LOSS

 

We lost our Matriarch leader Joan Akers, on January 2, 2024.  Joan was a very active part of HRC and NWSA until deteriorating health limited her activities. Joan was 92. You may recall some years ago the great poetic/humorous notes in the Aerograph from “THE WEATHER MOUSE”.  Joan along with her husband Floyd, who passed away about 14 years ago, were among the initial members of the NWSA and were big contributors to the Ideals of the association.  It was Joan and Floyd that conceived and built our Sea Gull mascot. He was in full glory during the Magnificent Millenium reunion, which to US, was the best, ever.  We send our deep sympathy to the Aker Family, who will be having a Celebration Of Live for Joan on 2/10/24.


GOOD OF THE ORDER

AKERS, with Joan’s passing comes the end of an era for HRC.  We will be collecting more of Joan and Floyd’s Navy stuff over the next few weeks.  We understand there are lots of Reunion Cups, anyone missing any??? 

CLARK, Kathi is doing okay.  She got through a bought of “the virus” and she was about the only one with it at the facility.  Kathi is on FB, and does get Email.  She enjoys connection with HRC as her father and mother Bud and Bev Scott were kingpins within the group. 

CROSSLEY, Fay is coping well, though he IS getting older by the minute.  Donna is doing well considering the physical and mental problems she has to deal with. 

DAIGLE, Bob is doing well, enjoys weekly volunteer work at church Pantry, he also enjoys working out at the gym.  Carol recently had Meniscus repaired, and came through with flying colors. 

MUSCARI, Frank is back to his usual 150% helpful mode, after his heart issues and adjustments to pace maker. Frank says he will be fine through 105 then he will re-evaluate.  Eve is doing well, as she copes with some health issues and tries to keep up with Frank. 

NELSON, Ed has come through the two knee operations with great gusto.  We know where he will be during the coming nice weather, he expects to improve his handicap.  Ruth is doing well and happy about Ed’s outlook. [See photo below]   

PAULY, Dennis and Susan are always busy and on the go, visiting far flung kids, tanking care of their “ranch” and horses.  They recently had a run in with “cold” or “the virus.  They are young!!!!

SALVATO, Jack is having some difficulty with mobility, but gets to meetings and eats out a lot.  So can’t be to bad.  Jack moving to new digs soon, nice assisted living place.   

SHAFER, Steve and Syliva.  Have been unable to connect with them in some time, expect health issues, will keep trying. 

STEINBRUCK,  Capt. Chuck and Louise, they are coping well and enjoying their new place. 

WRIGHT, Bob has moved back to TN to be close to family, looks like a busy life for him on FB.  He continues to be an HRC member, dues paid up to 2030.    

 

The Winter HRC meeting was held on Wednesday, JAN 24, 2024, at our favorite watering hole, Lucky Oyster.  As always food was great, service was great.  Waitress was Anna.  Frank paid the tab again.  What a guy!!!  We recommend you give Lucky Oyster a try if in the area, there is a 10% discount for VETS. 

 

In attendance were (7)…..Jack SALVATO, Frank and Eve MUSCARI, Bob and Carol DAIGLE and  Fay and Donna CROSSLEY.

Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

 

50-50 was won by Donna Crossley $25. 

 

Grace and The Pledge Of Allegiance were led by the CMAA, Frank Muscari.

 

Bob Daigle, made a motion that the Secretaries report be accepted as sent via Email, seconded by Jack Salvato, Motion passed. 

 

Treasurer Bob Daigle, gave the treasurer’s report; checking $1474.83, savings $2103.19.  Some dues were collected at this meeting.  Jack Salvato, made a motion to accept the report as read, motion seconded by Fay Crossley motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

1…..Dissolving HRC. A discussion followed and it was decided, no further action required at this time.  HRC will continue on current course, as long as acceptable by NWSA.  We did discuss the possibility of making donations on a routine basis much like we did a few years ago.  Discussion will continue at next meeting. 

2…..Cancelling of $48 reunion, it was a sad thing to report this to the membership.  .

3…..Wisconsin; The records are to show the HRC appreciation to Dennis Pauly, for the supper effort concerning the ships Upper Air program and we would like to try to help with doing something for the Weather Office itself. 

 

 NEW BUSINESS: :

1…..Venue for Spring Meeting, second week of April 7-13…..NOT TUE or SATI can’t do SAT, Dennis. 

2…..Bob Daigle made a motion that HRC should provide a life membership to HRC for Katthi (Scott) Clark, seconded by Jack Salvato, motion carried. . 

  

Bob Daigle made a motion to adjourn the meeting, motion was seconded by Jack Salvato.  Motion carried at 300pm.

 

Respectfully submitted:

Fay M. Crossley   HRC Secretary
LCDR Ed Nelson with wife Ruth and their adorable fur baby Echo.  Much to Ed’s chagrin, he went through two knee replacement surgeries last year during the months of peak golf season. However, with the loving support and encouragement of Ruth through a long rehab, he is now back on the links during times of “clement” weather. All the best to the Nelson’s and Echo, who was scheduled to have an operation for bladder stones on 01/24

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November 2023 News Updated
The Fall Makeup meeting for the HRC was held on Friday NOV 1-, 2023, at the Lucky Oyster restaruarnt.  Our waitress was Alexia, she has taken care of us before, the service was outstanding.  Food was fantastic as always.  AND, since  Frank Muscari treated everyone to lunch it became all the better.  Gifts of New York maple syrup was passed out as well, by the President. 

In attendance were:  (9) Frank and Eve muscari, Bob and Carol Daigle, Dennis and Susan Pauly, Fay and Donna Crossley and Jack Salvato.  

Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.  

Grace and The Pledge Of Allegiance were led by the CMAA, Frank Muscari.
In attendance were:  (9) Frank and Eve muscari, Bob and Carol Daigle, Dennis and Susan Pauly, Fay and Donna Crossley and Jack Salvato.  

Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.  

Grace and The Pledge Of Allegiance were led by the CMAA, Frank Muscari.
In attendance were:  (9) Frank and Eve muscari, Bob and Carol Daigle, Dennis and Susan Pauly, Fay and Donna Crossley and Jack Salvato.  

Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.  

Grace and The Pledge Of Allegiance were led by the CMAA, Frank Muscari.
IIn attendance were:  (9) Frank and Eve Muscari, Bob and Carol Daigle, Dennis and Susan Pauly, Fay and Donna Crossley and Jack Salvato.  

Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.
Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.
Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.
Meeting was called to order at 130 by President Fay Crossley.

Grace and The Pledge Of Allegiance were led by the CMAA, Frank Muscari.

50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.  

Grace and The Pledge Of Allegiance were led by the CMAA, Frank Muscari.

Frank Muscari, made a motion that the Secretaries report be accepted as sent via Email, seconded by Jack Salvato, Motion passed.
50-50 was won by Frank Muscari $35.  It was suggested by Jack Salvato a presidency was set, so in the future those winning 50-50  could be required to pay for lunches.  

Frank Muscari, made a motion that the Secretaries report be accepted as sent via Email, seconded by Jack Salvato, Motion passed. 

Treasurer Bob Daigle, gave the treasurer’s report; checking $1419.83, savings $2102.92.  He reminded us dues were do at the January meeting.  He also reminded the membership, that he would be the last member of HRC., as he would have to insure flowers were at everyone else’s funeral service.  Jack Salvato, made a motion to accept the report as read, motion seconded by Dennis Pauly motion carried. 
Treasurer Bob Daigle, gave the treasurer’s report; checking $1419.83, savings $2102.92.  He reminded us dues were do at the January meeting.  He also reminded the membership, that he would be the last member of HRC., as he would have to insure flowers were at everyone else’s funeral service.  Jack Salvato, made a motion to accept the report as read, motion seconded by Dennis Pauly motion carried. 
Treasurer Bob Daigle, gave the treasurer’s report; checking $1419.83, savings $2102.92.  He reminded us dues were do at the January meeting.  He also reminded the membership, that he would be the last member of HRC., as he would have to insure flowers were at everyone else’s funeral service.  Jack Salvato, made a motion to accept the report as read, motion seconded by Dennis Pauly motion carried. 
Treasurer Bob Daigle, gave the treasurer’s report; checking $1419.83, savings $2102.92.  He reminded us dues were do at the January meeting.  He also reminded the membership, that he would be the last member of HRC., as he would have to insure flowers were at everyone else’s funeral service.  Jack Salvato, made a motion to accept the report as read, motion seconded by Dennis Pauly motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

1…..Wisconsin Effort: Dennis Pauly, reviewed the reasoning for postponing the visit in October.  He settled concerns about Handicapped Parking and the ability to navigate around the ship and Nauticus.  There are few, if any, steps, everything is ramp accessible.  He will attempt to set up an outing, so HRC members can see the balloon project.  He wasn’t sure about the lunch being paid for by the Members or Nauticus.  Dennis Pauly has led this effort with great determination and drive.

NEW BUSINESS:

1…..The President reviewed the difficulties the HRC members are facing with their heath. He suggested the membership think about talking over the possibility of dissolving HRC at our next meeting. A lengthy discussion followed. The subject will again be discussed at the January meeting.

2…..The venue for our next meeting will again be Lucky Oyster. Pencil in JAN 7-13-2024 as meeting date possibilities.

 

Dennis Pauly made a motion to adjourn the meeting, motion was seconded by Jack Salvato. Motion carried at 250pm.


  • QUESTION: Which First Lady was the first to decorate the White House for Halloween? Mamie Eisenhower. “Decorations included skeletons hanging from the wall lights, yellow jack-o’-lanterns, and shocks of dried corn in the corners of the room,” the White House Historical Association explains, “and State Dining Room columns that were decorated at their bases with brown corn stalks, pumpkins, and red apples. The tables had miniature witches on broomsticks . . . . Black cats, black owls, disembodied witch heads, and goblins hung from the chandeliers in the foyer.
  • QUESTION: One President’s daughter has an October birthday.  She celebrated her birthday with a White House Halloween party one year.  Which President/daughter? Jimmy Carter’s daughter Amy.  They watched the movie Frankenstein, too.

 

HRC FOLKS

Akers (Joan)…..We are unsure of her situation, thoughts and prayers are with her.

Clark (Kathi)…..Kathi is doing well in the assisted living place, she is always upbeat.

Crossley (Fay and Donna)…..Fay is helping Donna though some difficult times.

Daigle (Bob and Carol)…..They just got back from a trip to Florida, visiting kin folk and friends.

Muscari (Frank and Eve)…..Frank says he has a new heart (just a bypass or two) so he has 25 more years to go. Eve is doing well and looking well.

Nelson (Ed and Ruth)…..Ed has had knee issues and has gotten through them very well.   He said couldn’t make this meeting had Dermatologist getting something removed.

Pauly (Dennis and Susan)…..Dennis has been working on fixing his farm equipment, Susan helps but she and tractor had a disagreement, tractor won, Susan has bandaged wrist.

Salvato (Jack)…..Jack is doing well, he gets around fairly well seems to go out to eat about every meal.

Shafer (Steve and Sylvia)…..serious health issues prevented them from getting to meeting.   Thoughts and prayers needed.

Steinbrack (Chuck and Louise…..they are doing okay, Louise goes to PT so they had to miss out meeting, but wished us well.

Wright (Bob)…..has moved back to TN. All the best Bob, keep in touch.

 

 

Respectfully submitted:

Fay M. Crossley   HRC Secretary




Source: Aerograph November 2023

The HRC OCT meeting required postponement.  We are attempting to catch up the second week of NOV.  So there should be a big catchup HRC section of the Aerograph in JAN.  HRC folks are doing fairly well.  Seems that age thing is creeping up on us all. 

An always upbeat Jack Salvato, seated back left, enjoying lunch with (clockwise from back right) son and daughter-in-law, daughter, brother and grandson.  Jack is one of those exceptional people that makes the best of any situation.  He loves our meetings and always has the Shrimp basket.  For the most part, all goes well with Jack, but he could use some extra prayers now and then.


Some Murphy’s Laws

1…..Mechanical Repair - - After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch and you'll have to pee. 

2…..Gravity - - Any tool, nut, bolt, screw, when dropped, will roll to the least accessible place in the universe. 

3…..Random Numbers - - If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal; someone always answers. 

4…..Variation - - If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will always move faster than the one you are in now. 

5…..Biomechanics - - The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach. 

6…..Coffee - -  As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold. 

7…..Physical Surfaces - - The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich landing face down on a floor are directly correlated to the newness and cost of the carpet or rug. 

8…..Logical Argument - - Anything is possible IF you don't know what you are talking about. 

9…..Public Speaking - - A closed mouth gathers no feet.

10…..Doctors - - If you don't feel well, make an appointment to go to the doctor, by the time you get there, you'll feel better.  

 

Respectfully submitted:

Fay M. Crossley   HRC Secretary



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Source: Aerograph August 2023

Dennis Pauly and his wife Susan had the unique pleasure of visiting with Ellen Upton, widow of AGCM (Ret.) Al Upton, at her home in North Carolina recently.  Ellen had expressed an interest to NWSA Historian Tom Hanagan in transferring some weather memorabilia for posterity; so Tom (who lives in CA) told Dennis (like Ellen a NC resident) and he and Susan arranged to meet Ellen at her home and take her to dinner where she regaled them with 'sea stories' of her and Al's lives.  Dennis & Susan were much impressed by Ellen's ability to recall things in such detail as well as her overall spunk and zest for life.  Members of NWSA Hampton Roads Chapter will look at possibly using some of the donated items on museum ship USS Wisconsin while Tom will consider the same on his project ship: historic aircraft carrier USS Hornet.  (Others in the community who have grown weary of dusting their AG 'stuff' are encouraged to consider contacting NWSA - Hampton Roads Chapter and/or NWSA Historian Tom Hanagan for donation.  Every effort will be made to include them for public display at one of the museums mentioned earlier.)


Summer Sizzler

Our Summer meeting was held at our usual watering hole, Lucky Oyster. Gathering was about 1pm on Thursday, 13 July. Our waitress was Onna and she was great, as was our food.


Meeting called to order about 1:15pm. 50/50 was won by Jack Salvato, $22.50. Jack later paid for everyone’s meal, I think he wants to see how often he can get his name in the Minutes. Grace and the Pledge were bypassed by the president.


In attendance: (6) Jack Salvato, Ed Nelson, Bob and Carol Daigle, Dennis Pauly, and Fay and Donna Crossley.  

  

…..Enclosures were passed around to the membership. Motion was made by Jack Salvato and Seconded by Dennis Pauly to accept Secretary Report as transmitted via Email, motion passed. The Treasurer’s Report showed Checking $2397.33 and Savings $2102.65. Motion was made by Fay Crossley and seconded by Dennis Pauly to accept report, motion passed.


OLD BUSINESS


a…..Wisconsin update: Dennis Pauly gave us a great update. Our efforts are showing signs of real progress. The placards that will be placed on the hull of the ship are nearing completion and Dennis will provide photos of them when complete. We want to continue looking into outfitting the weather office in case they might like to add that to one of the tours. That will take a lot of work and a lot of searching for equipment and the like. We still need some guidance concerning the needs at the museum and the possibility of Providing lectures or experience talks.


NEW BUSINESS


a…..Venue for FALL FLING was discussed. Dennis Pauly will also look into the possibility of our Fall meeting taking place at the Wisconsin, perhaps even on the ship. Some discussion followed about time for meeting and   TENTATIVELY the meeting will be held the 4th week of October 22-28. Members should pencil those dates in not to make sure they will be available to attend.


ENCLOSURES:   (copies can be obtained by contacting the Secretary)

1…..Proposed article for Aerograph concerning Dennis Pauly visit to Ellen Upton.

2…..BB63 Tiger Cruse pictures

3…..Weather equipment from Upton’s

4…..Hex Signs listing

Motion made by Dennis Pauly and Seconded by Steve Shafer to adjourn, motioned carried at 3:15PM.


For the first time since the early 90’s, a Weather Balloon flies over the decks of the USS Wisconsin (BB-64)!



For those who have experienced it, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a successful balloon launch, 

HRC FOLKS // FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER

…..AKERS…..(Joan)…..Joan is slowing down some and has some memory issues, but overall doing okay.

…..CLARK….. (Kathi)…..Is getting use to the assisted living place and is getting out more. She went to a wedding not long ago.

…..CROSSLEY….. (Fay and Donna)….Donna continues to struggle with sciatica and arthritis, but is doing fairly well. Fay is busy, but doing well, not looking forward to having Squamish cell removed in August.

…..DAIGLES….. (Bob and Carol)…..Bob is enjoying his yard and pool. Heart test results not back yet. Carol is doing well and working hard to keep Bob in line, which is kind of difficult, especially when he has a run in with the lawn mower and damages his finger.

.....MUSCARI….. (Frank and Eve)…... Frank is doing well after his heart operation; they had to miss the meeting due to visitors from Sweden.  

…..NELSON…..(Ed and Ruth)…..Ed is hoping next knee operation gees as well as last, taking place early August. …..PAULY….. (Dennis and Susan)….. Dennis had a run in with a Cleaning liquid and had a blood shot eye for a time, all is well now. Susan had some difficulties calming her horses after the 4th fireworks.

…..SALVATO….. (Jack)…..Has lost a lot of weight over the past few months, dealing with slipped disk and carpel tunnel. Sure has a great attitude and remains optimistic. Operation to get ready for Dialysis and check on why his legs aren’t working the way they should.

…..SHAFER…..(Steve and Sylvia)…..Steve has been in and out of hospital the past few months with leg problems and Sylvia has been staying with their daughter, who has been a big help.

…..STEINBRUCK…..(Capt. Chuck and Louise)….. Louise broke shoulder, but is on the mend. Expect the Capt. Is doing nursing duties.

…..WRIGHT….. (Bob)…..Bob was expected to be at the meeting but we tried to call and no answer so will continue to check on him.

 

Motion was made to Adjourn and seconded by Carol Daigle, motion carried around 3:00pm.


Words To Live By, Meant Funny, Good Traits and Noah Webster


Respectfully submitted:

Fay M. Crossley

HRC Secretary


Click Image to Enlarge

On March 8, 2023, NWSA long time member, Marge Cruse celebrated her 100th birthday.  Don and Marge were very active members of NWSA, pretty much from its inception.  Through the glory years of the association, Don and Marge worked hard to keep the many friendships going well.  The Potomac Chapter and the many functions it conceived were a joy to be part of.  The picnics at the creek, to reunions in the Capital District.  Don took on the difficult job of Historian and would be proud of how it has matured under leaderships that followed in his footsteps.  Marge was always by his side as Don’s partner.  Pictures are of Marge and her beautiful cake and with her daughter Donna and Son David.  She was thankful for the many cards, calls and flowers that NWSA folks sent her way.  Am sure NWSA wishes Marge continued wellbeing and happiness in the years to come. 


Submitted by Fay Crossley, HRC Pres/Sec.






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Click Image to Enlarge

LTCOL Howard Lee, USMC RET

 Awarded Congressional Medal of Honor

 

   It is such an awesome feeling for me, at each of our Hampton Road Chapter meetings, to have Howard Lee in attendance. He accompanies Doris Stepaniak. You may recall that Doris is a life member of HRC and NWSA.  Howard just makes me feel good about everything.  Even though Howard is a Medal of Honor Recipient, there is much more to the man than this amazing award might command.

   Howard Lee was born on August 1, 1933, in New York City. He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx, New York in 1951, and from Pace College with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, on June 19, 1955. While in his senior year at college, he enlisted as a member of the Platoon Leaders Class in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.  In September 1955, he entered the 14th Officer Candidates' Course, Marine Corps Schools, Quantico, Virginia, and upon completing the course the following December, was commissioned a Marine Corps Reserve second lieutenant. Lieutenant Lee completed The Basic School, Marine Corps Schools, Quantico, in July 1956 and the Marine Corps Supply School, Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, that September.  Upon completion of these courses, he was transferred to the Marine Corps Supply Activity, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for duty as Field Inspection Officer, Field Inspection Section, and later, Officer in Charge, Audit Section. He was promoted to first lieutenant in June 1957, and integrated into the Regular Marine Corps in January 1958.  Detached from the Supply Activity in September 1958, he was ordered to the West Coast, and served briefly as Troop Handler, 1st Replacement Battalion, Staging Regiment, Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California, then was assigned duty as a platoon commander with Company F, 2nd Battalion 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, serving in this capacity until June 1959.  First Lieutenant Lee next served as the Battalion S-4 Officer with H&S Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, Okinawa, (US administration) Japan.  In February 1960, he was assigned duty as Guard Officer at the Marine Barracks, U.S. Naval Propellant Plant, Indian Head, Maryland.  After his promotion to captain on July 1, 1961, he was assigned duties as Platoon Commander and, later, Instructor, The Basic School, Marine Corps Schools in Quantico, where he remained until June 1964.  From July 1964 until February 1966, Capt Lee was stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, serving first as Commanding Officer of Company A, 1st Battalion, then as Battalion S-3 Officer with H&S Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines, 2nd Marine Division. During the latter period, he served aboard the USS La Salle (LPD-3), and in the Dominican Republic.

 

Vietnam War — 1st tour

   Ordered to the Republic of Vietnam in April 1966, Capt Lee served as Commanding Officer of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. He received the Bronze Star with Combat "V" for heroic action on June 26, 1966 – June 27, 1966. Then, on 8-9 August, 1966 that he distinguished himself above and beyond the call of duty in the vicinity of Quang Tri, for which he received the Medal of Honor. Wounded in that action, Capt Lee was evacuated to the U.S. Naval Hospital, Bethesda, Maryland. In November 1966, he returned to duty at Headquarters Marine Corps and assigned duty as TO/MOS Coordinator and, later, Assistant FMF Readiness Officer in the Operation Section, G-4 Division. He was promoted to Major (United States) in July 1966.

   On October 25, 1967, Major Lee was presented the Medal of Honor by President Lyndon Johnson in a ceremony at the White House.

 

Vietnam War — 2nd tour

  Following this assignment, Maj Lee completed the Command and Staff College, Quantico, Virginia, in June 1970, then returned to the Republic of Vietnam for his second tour of duty. For his service as Executive Officer, Provisional Headquarters and Service Company and with the 2nd Combined Action Group, III Marine Amphibious Force, he earned a Gold Star in lieu of a second Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V".  He was promoted in July 1972 to lieutenant colonel and retired in 1975 from the Marine Corps for service as set forth in the following CITATION:

  If you would like to read Howard’s citation please go to……http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_V._Lee.

Click Image to Enlarge

   Though Howard has no past affiliation with Naval Weather, we are proud at HRC, when he graces our tables as a friend and fellow serviceman.  At HRC’s special gathering on 2/10/13 one of the other special guests was so overwhelmed with the thought of being in the same room with “such a hero”, tears sparkled in his eyes.  We thank you Howard for your service and for being such a gracious friend.  We, at HRC, ask NWSA and its members to keep our heroes like Mr. Lee and all our service men and women, in their thoughts and prayers.   

     Submitted by Fay Crossley, HRC Secretary