My grandfather served on the USS Archerfish, Carl Wilken,
and shares many of the stories and memories with all of this
grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I have made it to many of
the reunions including the one in Hawaii, and I will never forget
all of the memories and stories that have been recalled and
retold that the crewmembers of the USS Archerfish have given me.
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with me and God Bless!
Lisa Mielke
Sandusky, Oh USA - Monday, December 22, 2003 at 23:13:45 (CST)
The "Goat and Rooster" experience is a submarine
classic. So well written that it could give
"flashbacks" to old diesel boat sailors. - USS Batfish
SS-310
Edwin "Drac"
Kaminskas EM3(SS)
Grand Rapids, MI USA - Tuesday, December 16, 2003 at 19:30:45
(CST)
(Webmaster Note: For anyone who has never read the true story about the Famous Archerfish Goat and his sidekick The Rooster, follow this link for story and pictures: http://www.ussarcherfish.com/afishpic/goat.htm )
Great site, was on USS Archerfish (SSN 678.)
David Lawton
Tekamah, NE USA - Monday, December 15, 2003 at 03:54:11 (CST)
Without a doubt the best site on the net today. I knew Dave
Dimmick well & if has not on eternal patrol, please pass my
warmest regards
Bryan Minnigerode
Colorado Spgs, CO USA - Thursday, December 11, 2003 at 00:37:56
(CST)
Great Site!
Jerry Jacks
Aurora, Co USA - Wednesday, December 10, 2003 at 22:13:41 (CST)
Thank You AGSS/SS Archerfish (AGSS/SS 311) crew for
protecting our seas and saving our downed pilots! God Bless
America
Robert Gillette
Jewett City, CT USA - Tuesday, December 09, 2003 at 11:35:03
(CST)
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to the decommissioning
crew. Think of those who serve us at this time of year. John
Hyatt
john hyatt
kelso, wa USA - Friday, December 05, 2003 at 13:54:47 (CST)
Great Website! Was a CS3(ss) on USS Blenny SS-324 and USS
Abraham Lincoln SSBN602-Gold 1961-1965 DBF!
Bill Andersen
Greenwich, CT USA - Friday, December 05, 2003 at 10:28:13 (CST)
GREAT SITE, BRINGS BACK MEMORIES. GOD BLESS ALL WHO SERVED
ON THE ARCHERFISH AND THOSE ON ETERNAL PATROL. THANKS
JOSEPH FISCHER
SHOHOLA, PA.EPA USA - Thursday, December 04, 2003 at 23:30:48
(CST)
Served aboard Smokeboats..USS COBBLER (SS344) 58-60 USS
REQUIN (SS481) 60-62 RM3(SS) Great Site....DBF!
Vic Casciola
Garnerville, N.Y. USA - Thursday, December 04, 2003 at 21:32:34
(CST)
Served aboard Archerfish, SSN678, from '76 through '78.
Earned my fish while on the MedRun. Have heard lots of stories,
over the years, about the exploits of AGSS-311. And, of
course,her greatest claim to fame of the sinking of Shinano.
Great website you have put together here. Fair winds and
following seas, shipmates.
Robin McAteer
Central Village, CT USA - Friday, November 28, 2003 at 12:37:30
(CST)
I was stationed in Argentia l956-57 at ship repair. ME3
& 2nd class diver. Looking for info on the Lamb family out in
Placentia. They ran a small store/gas station.
Bob Muldoon
Killingworth , Ct USA - Wednesday, November 26, 2003 at 14:48:50
(CST)
Nick Clothakis, my grandfather, served on the Archerfish
from commission at Portsmouth through the fourth war patrol.
Please send me an email to make sure you have his proper address.
Thnx
Nick Colonnese
Cooper City, FL USA - Sunday, November 23, 2003 at 10:41:55 (CST)
Keep up the good work!
Chuck Prater
Cabot, AR USA - Sunday, November 16, 2003 at 20:40:49 (CST)
On this Veteran's Day, I just wanted to say thank you to
all of you who served our country and fought for our freedom. God
Bless you!
Deborah L. Cook
Riverside, CA USA - Tuesday, November 11, 2003 at 15:55:28 (CST)
I spent 2 yrs in a sub squadron 53-54 in Key West on the
USS Penguin as a BMSN & 2nd class diver. Have remained
interested in Subs ever since & have a great collection of
WW11 books on subs. Enjoyed the website. Anybody out there on the
Penguin would like to hear from you .
Robert Muldoon
Killingworth, Ct USA - Saturday, November 08, 2003 at 15:05:32
(CST)
Visited the site after learning that Willie B. Baird had
served aboard Archerfish. He was a member of Commissioning Crew
of USS Sirago (SS485) on which I served 1966-69. Would appreciate
learning if you have any information about any other Archerfish
sailors who also served on Sirago. I am chairman of committee to
locate our lost shipmates. Our web site is www.sirago.com
Rich McCamant
Easton, MD USA - Thursday, November 06, 2003 at 23:00:23 (CST)
It was one of my many memories in my life, to serve the USS
ARCHERFISH(SS311). The first boat I served when I joined first in
the US NAVY coming from the Philippines Island. A very proud
young man. And still very proud to be a submariner. Retired from
the submarine service in October 1977.
ALQUEZA, FELIX L. JR.
Middleburg, FL USA - Tuesday, November 04, 2003 at 13:33:04 (CST)
Tried to serve on her when I was at Pearl, but nobody
wanted to exchange
Joe Johnston (USS Remora
SS487)
Hayward, Ca USA - Monday, November 03, 2003 at 12:35:45 (CST)
Son of Tom Carnifax; looking thru these photos brings back
alot of old memories and stories told to me by my dad and his
other shipmates I have met in the past. Thanks
Mark Carnifax
Melbourne, FL USA - Sunday, November 02, 2003 at 20:17:27 (CST)
Great site - brings back memories of my time on USS
CORPORAL (SS346) and USS ANGLER (AGSS 240). Phil Fettig, YNC(SS),
USNR
Phil Fettig
Orlando, FL USA - Saturday, November 01, 2003 at 21:50:14 (CST)
yes I am a nuc and spent 2 years on the USS Robert E Lee
SSBN-601(B) and 2 years on the USS Guitarro SSN-665 but I had the
pleasure of riding several of the DB's before they retired them
and had a great time onboard
Gene Murphy EM1/SS
Roseville, CA USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 at 14:01:10 (CST)
This is my first tour of the Archerfish. Brings back
memories. I was a radio/sonar operator aboard the USS Guavina
SS362 during WW2 and the USS Amberjack SS522 in 1951/52. Thanks
for a submariner's site.
Robert Straub
Robbinsville, NJ USA - Tuesday, October 21, 2003 at 17:46:03
(CDT)
My husband William N Suddy was on the Archerfish 311 in the
early 60's , he passed way 12-30-1999. We miss him very much ,
thank you MRS BEVERLY SUDDY
BEVERLY A SUDDY
BELFAST, ME USA - Monday, October 13, 2003 at 18:28:37 (CDT)
Shipmates: I came from boots to Mare Is. Requested Sub
School, but was told it was full and I would have to wait. As
part of ships company at MI I worked on the boats coming out of
mothball to be recommissioned. I was an EN stricker and worked on
a number of boats being reco. I was in the Engine room when the
engines were restarted after the long sleep. I also worked on
Batfish, Aspro, Crevalle and a couple others I don't remember.
Finally went to Sub School Aug. l952 and then to USS Spikefish
(SS404). Qual. 1953. Yes I remember the Jitney and the Frontier
Club!!! Talked to Skip Julian this evening and he put me onto
this web site. Nice to sign in, Don Jarvis
Don E. Jarvis
Goshen, In USA - Friday, October 10, 2003 at 20:58:15 (CDT)
TMC(SS) Retired 1972
John L. Sullivan
Cookeville, Tn USA - Friday, October 10, 2003 at 09:26:37 (CDT)
(Webmaster Note: Welcome HOME Shipmate! We will contact you with Archerfish & Crew information.)
Rank: TMC(SS),USN,Retired
Harry R. Wilson
Tucson, AZ USA - Tuesday, October 07, 2003 at 22:25:50 (CDT)
Looking for information about Capt. S. A. Bobsczynski who
was my commanding officer when he served as CO of Arneb AKA 56 in
1961-62 and had served on the Black
Dick Heilman
Burlington, vt USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 23:42:54 (CDT)
doc carter's baby brother..
bob carter
grand ledge, mi USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 13:49:26
(CDT)
My dad, John Foley was a quarter master on the USS
Archerfish from '63 to '67, anyway he's gone to the last 3
reunions and has come back with the funniest stories, our sides
are a little sore. I would like to thank Judy & Skip for
making this the best one so far by the way he's talked. Thanx
again, Theresa Foley-Lapierre.
Theresa Foley-Lapierre
Cornwall, ON Canada - Saturday, September 20, 2003 at 20:46:10
(CDT)
My thanks and gratitude go out to all who served before me
to make this great land possible. I am currently a subscol
student in ct and love to read about my predecessors. May I come
close to their greatness someday.
FTSA Brian Young
Groton, CT USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 14:01:53 (CDT)
Judy and Skip, it was a great reunion. Thanks for a fine
job. Vic and Arlene
Vic Paterno
Pennsauken, NJ USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 11:11:53 (CDT)
Hi Mates. I am proud to say I served on the A-fish during
Operation Sea Scan in the early 1960's (as a sonarman), and like
all A-fish crew members, had a moniker, "The Weed." I
had "escaped" a little trouble on another boat and was
"sentenced" to the Archerfish - a long story - but it
turned out to be the best thing that happened to me in the USN. I
swear to make the next reunion to renew old acquaintances. This
terrific website brings back some great memories, all of them
bring a smile. Bless you all, and be well. Pat Thistle
Pat Thistle
Los Angeles , CA USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 11:27:13
(CDT)
What a great site! I wish my thin skins (GuitarroSSN665 and
BatesSSN680) had a site like this. Keep up the 4.0 job CDR
C. Dusty Rhodes MM1(SS)
arlington, va USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 14:23:08 (CDT)
I should visit the BB more often - GREAT enteries from
folks from all over - both crew and civilians. For those making
that 'last minute decision', you're ALWAYS welcome to join the
rest of us at INDY for the REUNION. Walk-in registration is
always welcome! Skip and Juts have done a magnificant job putting
together the make'ns of yet another great reunion. Having the
"Sailor Rest Your Oars" ceremony at the Congressional
Medal of Honor site this reunion should prove to be a moving
moment. And, as is always the custom, the hospitality room SHALL
be full of embelished sea stories being continually proded (sp)
by a few elbow bending libations if not the occasional, "Are
you sure about that?" Looking forward to seeing all of you
in INDY! Ron "Naviguesser" Rood PS Hey Chris! At least
you could have been a little more enthusiastic about the AFish
website - just kidding! Thanks for visiting and leaving a note
behind.
Ron
"Naviguesser" Rood
USA - Monday, September 01, 2003 at 16:34:51 (CDT)
My Dad Kenneth WH Sturtz II EMCSS allways told me
Archerfish was on of the boats he was on i think his first way
back when He has passed, some time now it gave me a good feeling
to see this web site as i remember some of his great sub storys
about the Archerfish and a guy named nick named Cupcake any body
know who that might be ?
Keith W H Sturtz
San Jose, CA USA - Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 18:34:52 (CDT)
I'm a retired Marine and have spent many a cruise aboarb
Navy vesseles and have never met a sailor more dedicated then
William N. Suddy I know the navy was as proud of him as he was of
the Navy. HURAH
Raymond Webber
Belfast, Me USA - Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 17:38:52 (CDT)
Thank you very much for adding my father, William N Suddy
to the memorial to the Archerfish and the men that sailed her.
Charles R Suddy
Richmond, KY USA - Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 04:24:09 (CDT)
I've been interested in WW2 subs since I was 12. Got to go
aboard USS Bream for my B-day that year (1968). Have read many
submarine books. Just finished "SHINANO!" God bless all
of you and a heartfelt "THANK YOU" For your service!
Mike Boerner
San Diego, Ca USA - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 19:42:55 (CDT)
(Webmaster Note: Be
sure to look for the new book about Archerfish to be released
around June 2004. It is the complete true story of our Great Old
Boat from Commissioning in 1943 to Her final Decommissioning and
sinking in 1968.
The book title is: ARCHERFISH: The Biography of a
U.S. Navy Submarine by Don Keith and (Archerfish
Shipmate) Ken Henry.
Click this link for info: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/donkeith/SS311.htm )
bless these men and their family. May they be long remember
and what they gave
Betty Rotvold
Billings, Mt USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at 17:44:37 (CDT)
Hi, i saw the Archerfish 1978 in Wilhelmshaven, Germany and
we had a good time with some nice Boys from the Crew. I can
remember one of them, his name is Kenneth A. Kohler . Who can
give me some Information.
Katja Doerr (-schulat)
Sonthofen, Bayern germany - Monday, August 18, 2003 at 13:42:58
(CDT)
(Webmaster Note: The USS Archerfish AGSS311 was decommissioned in 1968. The Archerfish you are looking for is the USS Archerfish SSN678. I will pass your message on to the contact for the 678 Boat.)
While serving on the 331 was in Yokuska over Christmas in
either 65 or 67 ?? Was invited to Archerfish Christmas
party...was a great time...thanks to all!
Everett Gasaway
Indianapolis, IN USA - Sunday, August 17, 2003 at 21:40:48 (CDT)
Aye Matey, tis a nice website, keep up the good work.
Leslie
Port Saint Lucie, FL USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 at 01:23:01
(CDT)
If anyone knows a man by the name of Tom Cousins e-mail me
please.
Anthony Ralph
Las Vegas, NV USA - Thursday, July 24, 2003 at 20:45:46 (CDT)
(Webmaster Note: Unfortunately, our Shipmate Chief Tom Cousins passed away on 21 August 1986.)
Hi guys, Since I haven't seen too much from Key West crew,
I need information om sending my photo collection from 57-58
which included crossing the line on way to Brazil. And a couple
of shots in shipyard at thames river after coming out of mothball
fleet. Also many pics of Key West. Have a great story of near
sinking of A-fish on the way south. Was proud to me member of
first all single crew at start of Sea Scan. We were one of a kind
then.Also have recommissioning program from New London 1957.
Photos of most of first crew on hand.
Cornelius Nick Brown
Berkeley, Ca USA - Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 04:12:01 (CDT)
(Webmaster Note: Nick - What a wonderful addition to the Archerfish Archives. Information and pictures like you have are a priceless addition to the Memory and History of Archerfish and Her Crews. We'll be in touch. Thank you very much Shipmate!)
Alvin R. Murch, My father, who was on the Archerfish during
the Key West pre sea scan era, passed away on November 22, 1986
in Oakland NJ.
Pete Murch
Stamford, CT USA - Wednesday, July 16, 2003 at 18:15:21 (CDT)
Heard many sea stories about the Archer Fish from Ron Rood
and it sounded like a fantastic boat. Glad to see that it's got
it's own little spot on the web.
Christopher Smith
Stayton, OR USA - Tuesday, July 15, 2003 at 09:30:21 (CDT)
Always enjoy a visit to one of the finest Web sites on the
internet. It was an honor for me to have been skipper of SS 311
for a short part of her distinctive active life. Signed Capt Stan
McCord USN(Ret)
Stan McCord
Kilmarnock, VA 22482 USA - Monday, July 14, 2003 at 13:48:02
(CDT)
Worked on Archerfish in 1967-1968 before her demise as a
target. She was a great boat.
Don Holmes
New Haven, IN USA - Sunday, July 06, 2003 at 19:46:49 (CDT)
Hi , I was on the r.n. submarine Walrus Archerfish came
alongside swopped a white submarine sweater with a guy on board
for a jacket,her chef made the best pizza I had ever tasted,.At
that time she had been around the world doing baty dips. All the
best Phil
Bert Phillips
Lawrencetown, ns CANADA - Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 09:34:56 (CDT)
Very great site. Greetings. Joe
Joe
USA - Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 04:48:04 (CDT)
I served in USS Redfish (SS-395) in the late 50's, early
60's, and know the class well, and had shipmates in Archerfish
when she circumnavigated the globe. Great Website. Thanks for the
opportunity. Dutch Sontag
Jack Sontag, Lt.(SS) USN (RET)
Chula Vista, CA USA - Friday, June 27, 2003 at 11:59:01 (CDT)
Good site. Found you on google... Passion is in all great
searches and is necessary to all creative endeavors. W. Eugene
Smith .
Duffy
Missoula, TX USA - Sunday, June 22, 2003 at 18:37:01 (CDT)
I reported aboard the USS Archerfish SS311 in 1958 in Key
West, FL after spending 26 wks in RM/A School & Sub School in
New London, CT as a RMSA & quickly made RMSN. Before I
qualified for my dolphins, a shipmate was being initiated for
getting his dolphins by being thrown overboard. Naturally, I
wanted to join the fun, so I grabbed the guys leg to help
overboard him. My shipmates knowing I had not yet qualified, also
threw me overboard & later explained "you don't help if
you ain't qualified". I enjoyed the sub service & was in
Key West & helped with some of the props from the movie
"Operation Petticoat". While on topside watch, I saw
restored Jap Zeros fly overhead during the filming & reported
it to the COB. He explained they were part of the movie. Later I
had duty on the USS Thornback & USS Sennet. Submitted by:Dr.
Doug Stanaland RM3-SS, now developing property near Calabash, NC.
PS. I AM INTERESTED IN ANY REUNIONS PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE.
PLEASE EMAIL ME: skydevco@atmc.net
Dr. Doug Stanaland
Calabash, NC USA - Sunday, June 22, 2003 at 16:11:47 (CDT)
Just wanted to say Hello. Great site. I served 5 and a half
years onboard USS Archerfish (SSN-678) as an EM1(SS).
Brian Conklin
Belfair, WA USA - Sunday, June 22, 2003 at 01:44:43 (CDT)
I had the good fortune of serving aboard the USS Sterlet
SS392 back during the time Archerfish was in Pearl Harbor. Heard
about her unique assignment of bachelor's only. Was always
wondering where that concept of assignment came from and what
were the results of such a unique way of assignment. Do you or
any of your readers have the answer?
Lou Pleshe
Corpus Christi, Tx USA - Friday, June 20, 2003 at 07:52:50 (CDT)
(Webmaster Note: Quick answer is that due to the nature of Operation Sea Scan and extended periods of operating away from Home Port, sometimes for over a year at a time, the requirement was for an all bachelor crew. More info about the nature and location of Sea Scan activities can be found on the History page and the Sea Scan sections of our website.)
I am the daughter of Lovell O. Marsh ENC(ss). This site on
the Archerfish and its crew makes me feel closer to my dad who
passed away 2/12/97. This was his love and joy for twenty years.
Any info for him would be geatly appreciated and dear. He was
operation sea scan lll 61 to 63.
linda c. bowden (MARSH)
tyngsboro, ma USA - Friday, June 06, 2003 at 17:16:37 (CDT)
please i am looking for info an pics on my dad Lovell O.
Marsh who served on this submarine from aprox. 1952-1966 i will
be so happy if any of u can help thank u the navy and this
submarine was # 1 in his life and for me also thanks
linda bowden(marsh)
tyngsboro, ma USA - Friday, June 06, 2003 at 15:50:04 (CDT)
Just wanted to say hi just seen my name in blast regarding
my only captains mast for being awol in Thames river shipyard
before leaving for Key West
Cornelius Nick Brown
Berkeley, Ca USA - Friday, June 06, 2003 at 03:06:41 (CDT)
Hello Tom and Doug, I was with my friend Birgit in March
1993 in Almeria - Spain, met we two there friends Tom and Doug
from a USS warship, Tom was 1993, 22 years old. We would stand
gladly again with them in contact. Who can help us to find the
addresses. Made a photo of us for it, I would like to get this
photo gladly, thank in advance. Maybe someone knows the name of
the warship in March 1993, in the port of Almeria - Spain was.
Please help me all. Yours sincerely Loretta
Loretta Becker
München, Bayern Germany - Thursday, May 22, 2003 at 04:44:30
(CDT)
(Webmaster Note: The USS warship was not USS Archerfish AGSS311 which was decommissioned in 1968. Perhaps it was the nuclear USS Archerfish SSN678, or another US ship. Maybe someone visiting this Decklog will see Miss Becker's entry and will know of the circumstances she writes about and contact her.)
Just a note to say "Hello" to all my former
shipmates. I wanted to add one more thing. I was glad to see the
footnote Corney added to this Deck Log saying that objectionable
material would be removed. Thats great because now we won't have
to put up with any of Goat Sanderlin's balony. Sorry Goat....I
really do still love you though!!!!
Mac Mc Collum
USA - Saturday, May 17, 2003 at 17:16:10 (CDT)
If you haven't read this, you might like it... your site
made me think of it... thanks.. First Memory by Louise Glück
Long ago, I was wounded. I lived to revenge myself against my
father, not for what he was— for what I was: from the
beginning of time, in childhood, I thought that pain meant I was
not loved. It meant I loved. ... www.saroff.com
S. Ashley
Fargo, TX USA - Monday, May 12, 2003 at 22:23:09 (CDT)
Jerry and Pig, thanks for all the work. See you all again
in Indianapolis.
Vic Paterno
Pennsauken, NJ USA - Tuesday, May 06, 2003 at 06:44:57 (CDT)
Hey guys...just signing in.
Robert Athorp
Sheboygan, WI USA - Monday, May 05, 2003 at 19:19:24 (CDT)
nice trip through time
ROBERT HASKINS
Rockville, MD USA - Monday, May 05, 2003 at 11:01:49 (CDT)
If anyone knows or hears about the cause of the explosion
aboard the Chinese sub that wiped out the whole crew please let
us know. The chinese press is being secretive about the whole
incident and our press is also silent. Haven't found anything on
local or cable news either. Seems to be a mystery.
John F. Potanovic
Yorktown Heights, NY USA - Sunday, May 04, 2003 at 16:33:21 (CDT)
I lost touch with this site a couple of years ago when I
moved and just found it again. I am the daughter of Thomas E.
Cousins that served in 1944-45. My Dad died in 1986 of cancer. I
am proud to say that my husband and I both served 20 years in the
Army and now my daughter has plans to join the Marines upon
graduation. My, son, also in High School, is working hard so he
may apply to the Navy Academy upon graduation. My Dad would be
proud of them.
Mary F. Ralph
Las Vegas, NV United States - Friday, May 02, 2003 at 15:31:19
(CDT)
My Father Al Waltman served on the Archerfish in WWII he
has since passed away and wonder if any of his buddies were still
with us. Jude
Jude T. Waltman
Norman, OK USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2003 at 18:24:09 (CDT)
I received the email news about Chief Cohoon from Corny
yesterday and was sadden to hear of his passing. I must echo John
Foley's comments about the chief and truely a friend. Had it not
been for him, I'd been in the seaman gang the rest of my navy
career. As John said, he was the most calm, patient, and learned
"boss" a guy could hope for. He will surely be missed.
Sailor--Rest your oars my friend. You've earned it. Ron
"Naviguesser" Rood
Ron "Naviguesser"
Rood
Salem, Or USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2003 at 15:30:57 (CDT)
It is with deep sorrow and regret that I learned of the
death of a great shipmate and boss, QMC(SS) Al Cohoon. He was in
charge of the QM gang when I started there and was a fantastic
teacher and very patient. I have thought a lot about him,
wondering where he was, hoping he'd show at a reunion, again too
late. I think he rode a "tin can" during the battle of
Quadalcanal and I still remember when we sailed by there he was
just staring and you could tell that he was about 20 some years
in the past. I'm truly sorry that I never got to see him again
after he left the boat in Pearl for retirement.
John Foley
Waubaushene, Ont Canada - Monday, April 21, 2003 at 15:55:16
(CDT)
Hi Shipmates, I was notified yesterday that Al Cohoon, who
served on Archerfish, went on eternal patrol April 5, 2003. I met
Al when I got off the Menhaden in Aug. of '65. He moved up to
Eatonville, Washington about 20 years ago and was quite
reclusive, so I didn't see him much. One thing I will always be
grateful to Al for is when he presented me with a 15 volume book
set by Clay Blair on World War II. I used a couple of the volumes
as reference books when I wrote "Cruisers For
Breakfast." We will have a moment of silence for Al at our
next South Sound Base USSVI meeting. I do not know if he had any
family members that survived him. Best regards, John Mansfield,
Cmdr. South Sound Base.
John Mansfield
Tacoma, WA USA - Saturday, April 19, 2003 at 19:10:44 (CDT)
Just got through reading some of the visitors' comments in
the A-Fish guestbook. Glad to see Joe Osier and some of the other
crewmembers visitng the site. I had to smile to myself when I saw
Joe Osier's name. I always remember that night in Hakodate, Japan
when, on someone's dare, he reached in the goldfish bowl
(aquarium) and snatched one of the goldfish and ate live in front
of everyone!!!!!! Gus Emperador
Gus Emperador
Chula Vista, CA USA - Wednesday, April 16, 2003 at 15:34:02 (CDT)
My father Martin T. Lafferty served from SEP58 to MAY62 as
a quartermaster. All these years , I never knew it was an all
bachelor crew!
Martin A. Lafferty
Saunderstown, RI USA - Sunday, April 13, 2003 at 08:38:09 (CDT)
My grandson has just enlisted in the Navy. I would love to
find any information on his Great Uncle Thomas Joseph Walsh who
served on the A-fish during WW2. I also remember reading a
paperback concerning the Archerfish. Does anyone remember the
title or author? God bless you all.
Pat Ganyo
Buffalo, Mn USA - Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 13:23:11 (CST)
A former shipmate (Suddy EM1 SS) on the Tusk 426 was a
crewmember on Archerfish during "sea scan". He is on
eternal patrol now so I suppose this is as close as I'll be able
to get to him. - Sailor rest your oar!
Gage
boston, ma. USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 10:50:32 (CST)
What a wonderful web site! My grandfather, John Potanovic,
served with pride on the Archerfish during WWII. I am so grateful
to him and all the brave men and women who risk their lives
everyday to defend our freedom. God Bless America!
Nancy Ellen
Potanovic
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, March 13, 2003 at 15:53:51 (CST)
A great site to visit. It was an honor to tie up in
the same nest as the Archerfish while I served on the Rock in San
Diego. Was a bit jealous of you guys making that world tour.
Loved to have "been there, done that"...Jay
Jay McNelly
Littleton, NC USA - Thursday, March 13, 2003 at 11:20:38 (CST)
I have known John Potanovic and his wonderful
family for almost 27 years and am proud to say they have treated
me just like one of their own. John is very proud of his
association with the Navy and to have served with many very fine
and brave men on the USS Archerfish. Still today he speaks with
such pride of the accomplishments of the entire crew. It is my
pleasure to know this man and to be apart of the POTANOVIC
family. My Thanks and gratitude for the Freedom of this Nation.
To ALL who are serving in foreign countries and are prepared to
give of their lives to keep us free. May GOD Bless and keep you
and bring you all home speedily and safely.
Jeanette
Potanovic Conolly
Boca Raton, FL USA - Wednesday, March 12, 2003 at 19:43:17 (CST)
I have been tryng to get a patch from the second
commisioning of the Archerfish with no success. This emblem was
accepted on May 15th, 1952 by the navy as drawn by the Yoeman at
the time (William Weathered). If anyone has or knows where I can
get one of these patches please let me know about it. Thanks for
any help I can get .
Jim Monte
Holiday, Fl USA - Wednesday, March 12, 2003 at 09:53:26 (CST)
Surfed into site and liked it alot. The internet is
such a great tool for historical documentaion. The site is great
and very informative! God Bless The USA!!
David Thompson
Castle Rock, CO USA - Tuesday, March 11, 2003 at 21:43:18 (CST)
I am the yougest child of John F Potanovic who
served proudly on the USS Archerfish during their shining moment
of sinking the "Shinano". I am very proud of my father
and his shipmates for protecting our country in WWII. He is a
very well liked and respected person to all that meet him. I only
hope and pray that I grow up exactly like him. His heroic acts go
way beyond serving in the Navy as he and my Mother
(Beatrice)raised 6 terrific children and are now enjoying their
Grandchildren. We are very fortunate to have such wonderful
parents and we all thank God that they are still here with us
today. God Bless all of the service men and women for protecting
our freedom. We need to show the world that we ARE the most
powerful country in the world and not back down from anyone. May
God bring them all back to us safely.
William J
Potanovic
Coral Springs, Fl USA - Monday, March 10, 2003 at 14:26:03 (CST)
This is a wonderful informative website in tribute
to all the brave sailors that served with pride aboard the USS
Archerfish. My father John F. Potanovic joined the Navy at age 17
in 1942. He was a crew member on that historical night in
November 1944 when the "USS Archerfish" sank the
Japanese aircraft carrier "Shinano". He is among the
crew featured in 2 photos on this website: Guam December 25, 1944
and in the photo taken September 1, 1945. He left the Navy and
the Archerfish in 1946. He has stayed in contact with many of his
Archerfish buddies throughout the years. He was particularly
happy to see this website. He and my mother (they have been
married over 55 years) have been fortunate to attend several
"sub" reunions. They have raised 6 children (I am the
oldest) and they have 7 grandchildren. We are very proud and
thankful to everyone who has served in our armed forces. And
especially proud of our Dad/Granddad who we love, admire and
respect as a veteran and as a person. God bless him. God bless
all our brave men and women still serving our country. And God
bless the U.S.A.
Teri Potanovic
Boca Raton, Fla USA - Sunday, March 09, 2003 at 14:51:27 (CST)
Glad to visit the site. My highschool classmate
RM2c Gerry Lefebvre and I would re-visit whenever he was in port,
usually at the Royal Hawaiian beer garden. As Gary mentioned
previously I was assigned ship/ship yard repair, from Oct.
'43-Oct. '45. Major project was the YD80 - floating barge w/
rotating crane. Always proud to have been a part of the
ArcherFish via Gerry... I heard about all the adventures, first
hand. Missed Gerry @ our last class reunion. Will always remember
him and the SS/AGSS-311.
Robert Baker
Huntley, IL USA - Sunday, March 09, 2003 at 13:58:27 (CST)
My father - Robert M. Baker was @ Pearl doing ship
/shipyard repair during WWII. He remembers fondly working with
the crew of the ArcherFish... especially the opportunity to go
out on a shake-down with Enright. Evidently dad had the time off
coming, but I gathered his C.O. felt it would be 'prudent'if he
didn't venture off. To this day, because of the great
accomplishments of the ship and crew, he wishes he had. I'll be
sure to show dad this website next time I visit him @ Sun City -
Huntley, IL.
Gary Baker
Batavia, IL USA - Sunday, March 02, 2003 at 15:30:35 (CST)
I am so proud to say that my dad, John Potanovic,
served on the Archerfish during WW II. He is "my hero"
and I couldn't be more proud of him!
Mary Ellen Potanovic
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at 16:20:19 (CST)
I came on to learn more about the Archerfish
because my father was aboard the Archerfish in WWII. His name was
Fred Farrar and wanted to know if anyone knew him or remembered
him. He would tell me stories about the Archerfish and things
that happen while he was on.
joe farrar
american canyon, ca USA - Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at
01:47:30 (CST)
Excellent job on the web site. My dad (William M.
Fuller) always enjoyed the reunions and I know he would have
loved this web site. It's good to see there's some of you left to
pass on the history.
William G.
Fuller
Milford, Mi. USA - Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 15:04:17 (CST)
Hello Archerfish from a relief-crewman of your
sister ship USS BATFISH #310. I am too young for WW2 born March
1935,but remember well WW2 events and spend as much time as
possible on the BATFISH. I'm a Ham Radio Operator and have a Ham
Radio set up in the cramped Radio Room of the BATFISH. I was able
to get a special Ham Call for our boat "WW2SUB" is the
call sign. Our WW2 call sign was "NYST" for the
BATFISH. Anyhow its a joy to operate from the BATFISH radio room.
Of special interest to you is I see parts of your boat
"311" on each visit. The story I'm told is as both the
BATFISH and ARCHERFISH were been completed at the Portsmouth
Naval Yard the ARCHERFISH was given orders for a mission and
would not be ready fitted for the trip. So parts made with
BATFISH's # 310 were put on your boat to make your schedule. I
can see #311 stamped on the forward torpedo tubes as well as
other parts on the BATFISH and the same parts on your ARCHERFISH
would be stamped #310. So we are truly sister-ships. We continue
each year to upgrade our restoration of the BATFISH. Many of the
Museum ships have Ham stations aboard and I have had Ham radio
contact (from the Batfish radio room)with the-COD #224,
SILVERSIDES #236, Cobia #245, Cavalla #244, Drum #228, Seawolf
#197, Clamagore #343, Torsk #423 and Requin #481 as well as the
Carriers Yorktown CV-10 and Lexington CV-16, also the Canadian
Destroyer Haida G63, Liberty Ship SS John W Brown, the German
U-505 among others I've forgotten. If ever possible visit the
BATFISH at the Port of Muskogee on the Arkansas River in
Oklahoma. If not possible to visit the boat please pull up the USS
BATFISH website and see your
sister-ship.
Sam Whitley
Muskogee, Ok USA - Friday, February 21, 2003 at 11:54:35 (CST)
Regarding the Decklog entry below from Richard
Becker, I have been in contact with this young man and he tells
me that his request for information from our WWII Archer-Fish
Shipmates is for a school project he is working on. If you wish
to contact him, his e-mail address is listed with his Decklog
entry below.
Webmaster
USA - Friday, February 07, 2003 at 19:11:31 (CST)
I served on the 678 boat in the 70's. We were proud
of the heritage of the Archerfish and I hope we did a service to
the traditions that the 311 set during her distinguished career.
Best wishes to all who sailed on the Archerfish 311 and 678.
John Duggan
Augusta, GA USA - Thursday, February 06, 2003 at 08:11:52 (CST)
Hey there i would like to do an interview of any one
that served on this ship during world war II and if any of you
have family that was alive and did not serve during this time i
would also like to interview them too. please get back to me at
the web site shown and i apreciate all of the people that are
helping me with this project.
Richard Becker
Bartow, Fl USA - Monday, February 03, 2003 at 18:47:40 (CST)
It was 1960 or 1961 when I was as a Marine in the Dutch
Navy. I was a driver on the Marine Base on Curacao, the
Netherlands Antilles. At that time the island was visited by an
American submarine and I stood for some days on it , being the
driver of the commander. He and his crew were very kind and I
still remember I had a wonderful time. When they left they gave
me some packets of cigarettes and the ship’s sign . I
enjoyed reading of the USS Archerfish on your site Siep van der
Werf
Siep van der Werf
Leeuwarden, Netherlands - Monday, February 03, 2003 at 14:41:04
(CST)
I KNOW THE USS311 AT A COMPUTER GAME NAMED "SILENT
HUNTER". WHEN I KNOW WHAT HAVE THE SHIP DONE, I FOUND I LOVE
THIS GREAT SUBMARINE. I WANT TO BE A FRIEND OF ALL MAN HAVE
SERVED AT THE SUB.
Erwin.G
Beijing, China - Thursday, January 30, 2003 at 06:45:38 (CST)
I served on the Proteus and the Hunley 1969 throught 1972.
I have great memories of crew members on all the boats we
serviced. I continue to have great stories today because of the
web sites like yours. Thanks for the memories and stories. Reif
Dennis R
Fort Collins, CO USA - Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 16:35:12
(CST)
I was on the freeway today and saw a vet. lic. plate. 311
ss and a submariner sticker on the window, just had to look it up
and check if I was right, I was never in the navy or the armed
forces, so I'd like to thank you all for your service.
William Byrne
Moreno Valley, ca USA - Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 15:54:38
(CST)
I really like the web site.You did the great job.
Kyaw Tu Ya Lwin
Yangon, Myanmar - Monday, January 27, 2003 at 06:07:32 (CST)
Irony, I found some large metal plaques, Archerfish was one
of them. Great site, you guys did a hell of a good job. Many
thanks.
Robert F. Curtis
Richmond Hill, Ga USA - Saturday, January 25, 2003 at 08:55:54
(CST)
Hey I really like your site. I have found some of the
information here helpfull. Thanks :) Joe D.
Joe
Memphis, TN US - Tuesday, January 21, 2003 at 21:05:34 (CST)
Greetings from Huston, TX. My name is Lisa. Let me thank
you for such an informative site. I used it to compose cliff
notes and free essays for my class. Your site is indeed a
wonderful source for all my future term papers and research
papers.
Lisa
- Tuesday, January 21, 2003 at 00:57:40 (CST)
To all you Grayback shipmates. The Grayback website is back
up and running!! http://www.geocities.com/ussgrayback2003/
The 2003 reunion will be held at Reno, Nevada Sept. 3-6. It will
piggie back the Sub Vets reunion. Contacts: RM Hurley,
Bill Acord,
and JD Chamberlain.
John Hyatt - Archerfish/Grayback
John Hyatt
Kelso, WA USA - Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 16:10:30 (CST)
I just went on line and I cant belive how much is here wow
ross a. haynes
eureka , cal USA - Monday, January 13, 2003 at 00:44:55 (CST)
Well i'll be dipped in dog p***!!! was telling a friend of
mine about the diesel generator 'customization' done by Dow
Rogers (A-Ganger Extrordinaire), figured i'd give yahoo a try,
and fell here!!! Great site, just wish there was some more about
the 'short bus' :) or some pictures of the 'Scalded Dawg'! 678,
1988 - 1992.
Rick Powell (ETC/SS RET)
<>http://www.mpna.com/ripowell
Cincinnati, OH USA - Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 13:04:44 (CST)
Had the chance to visit the Archerfish during our 67
Westpac cruise. Great bunch of guys. Old friend was COB, Joe
Miller. Good memories of an old time. Thanks guys. Tom T
Thomas Treise
North Hills, CA USA - Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 12:45:42 (CST)
Great site. Thanks for sharing.
Laura Mancuso
houston, texas USA - Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 15:03:07 (CST)