2006 issues of the Arly Times

Welcome to the Home Page of the USS Arlington Association. The Quick Find above will take you to the Association Roster, Membership Application, Reunion Info, etc.

Ken Cox RM1
Skipper, USS Arlington Association

November / December 2006Arly Times

Shipmates: Again the Arly Times is being sent a little late because we were waiting for a few items of information concerning the Reunion and Health Issues, and we wanted to be sure to get all the info out to you.

Welcome Aboard to FTG3 Mike Callihan, EN3 Tom Crooks, ETN2 Gary Guthrie, ETN2 Dave Manore, ETCS David Myers, MMFN Edward Myers, BM3 James Reed, and EN2 Larry Stuart. See the Additions and Changes at the end of this issue for details. Gary Guthrie's name appeared on the Lost Ship Mates list. So whoever was looking for Gary, contact is now possible.

TAPS:

RM1 John Cashman passed away suddenly of a heart attack on Friday, Dec 08, 2006.

2006 Norfolk Reunion Memory Books. I have stayed in contact with the photographer in Norfolk and while we were promised the Memory Books "by Christmas" they advised me that the books had been mailed on Thurs Jan 11th.

2007 Minneapolis, MN Reunion. For your planning purposes, here is the basic information concerning the reunion. An official schedule and registration form will be distributed around the first part of April. The dates are Wed., Oct 3, 2007 to Sun, Oct 7th, 2007. Our hotel is the Holiday Inn Select at the Minneapolis/St Paul International Airport. Reunion rates are $92.00 plus 13.5% tax ($104.19 inclusive). The Hotel offers complimentary Shuttle runs to and from both the Airport and the Mall of America. The Holiday Inn Select has free parking, a luxurious health club, an on-site restaurant and lounge, an Olympic-size indoor pool, sauna and whirlpool. Room service is available daily, and rooms have two telephones with voice mail, hair dryers, coffee makers and make-up mirrors. Our Reunion Hosts are Mike Ferderer and Jim Cocking.

Mike and Jim are planning a full schedule for this Reunion. For early arrivals, Mike is planning a cookout at his house on Tues. 10/2 from 3-10pm. Wednesday, 10/3 is check-in day with Hospitality Room open all day. Thursday, 10/4 there is a Tour of the Air Guard Museum with lunch at the EM Club. In the evening there is a trip to Mystic Lake Casino, possibly to have a show as well as gaming. Friday, the Memorial Service will be held at Ft. Snelling with an Honor Guard. Friday afternoon is Free time or shopping at the Meg-a-Mall or Tour James Hill Museum and Model RR Club at Bandana Square. In the evening we'll have a meal and Association Bowling event at Park Tavern. Saturday will have Free Time. Group photos at 4:30 and at 6:30 we'll have our Farewell Banquet with a choice of Sliced Roast Sirloin, Chicken Dujon or Walleye. After the banquets we'll have either a Karaoke Dance and/or a Stand up Comic Show. There is a possibility that we will have a buffet meal at the hotel on either Thursday or Friday evening, if the events picked for that night cannot be finalized. These events are all tentative. Details such as actual times and prices need to be worked out, and will be sent as a Reunion Registration Form and Schedule sometime in April. But at least you can now do some planning to attend. Never been to the Mall of America? Now's your chance. !

DD-214's available on line. Jerry Ennenga sent the following info: The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) has provided the following website for veterans to gain access to their DD-214s online: http://vetrecs.archives.gov

RVN Cross of Gallantry. Jim Arnold sends the following info: Would you please advise all those that were eligible for the RVN Cross of Gallantry but didn't receive it and want to file it they must obtain a DD149 form from their VA rep, but don't send it to where the form says. You will only get a letter back saying they don't do admin changes and have to forward it. That just slows things down. They should mail their form to: National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records pers-312-D2, 9700 Page Ave., St. Louis, Mo. 63132

New VA Veterans ID Cards. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced that VA healthcare facilities are beginning an aggressive campaign to assure that enrolled veterans with old versions of its ID cards are issued the new Veterans Identification Card (VIC). VA decided to initiate the mass replacement to reduce veteran vulnerability to identity theft. The new VIC removed the sensitive information such as birthdates and social security numbers from the face of the card. VHA estimates that between 3 and 4 million enrolled veterans have not yet been issued a new VIC. VA hopes to complete the massive replacement program within the next 12 months. To learn more visit www.military.com/benefits/veterans-health-care

Health Issues Report: We are still holding at 87% for the number of our crew that are reporting medical afflictions associated to Agent Orange.

There is a lot of information that is still in the works right now. Mike, Jack Vines, Chuck Geiter, Chico Hernandez and Jim Mathews are putting together an "Arly Times Extra" that will be sent out in the next couple of weeks. They will be contacting all Arlington crew members either by email, snail mail or phone. And they are currently looking for any help or suggestions. If you would like to help work on this important project, Contact Mike at mpferderer@comcast.net or chuck Geiter at chuckgeiter@aol.com

On January 8th to 11th, Secretary Nicholson for the Veterans Administration is expected to file an Appeal with the Veterans Court of Appeals in the case of Hass Vs. Nicholson. It is also expected that Secretary Nicholson will attempt to change the interpretation of the Law - Agent Orange Act 1991 passed by Congress. We suspect the reason for his actions is that he is to avoid paying the cost of Health Care and Compensation for "Deep Blue Water Sailors" exposed to Agent Orange.

It is now recommended by the many Veterans Organizations and the Legal Team representing HAAS that any USS Arlington or "Deep Blue Water Sailor" file his or her claim for benefits if they have one of the 13 Medical Afflictions associated to Agent Orange exposure. Under recent investigation the Arlington Health Team also feels that the USS Arlington's classification of "Deep Blue Water" may be incorrect. the classification may be for should be "Brown Water" per the definition of "Brown Water", the mission of the ship, its assignment to TF 117, Ports of Call (Cam Rahn Bay, Da Nang), and of the actual position of the Arlington to land and/or its actual assignment in the coastal waters of Viet Nam.

To prove our case, we have ordered the Arlington's "Deck Logs". We will then plot the position of the Arlington to land and the time's the ship visited the ports of Cam Rahn Bay and Da Nang. The "Deck Logs" will further provide us with the exact time frames of the ships ports of call and daily positions, and other historic data while we were onboard.

Lastly, The Health Team welcomes the contributions of Jim Mathews (68-69) and further thanks Chico and Jack for their continued contributions and hard work.

Chuck Geiter sends the following:

I have received this letter through regular postal mail late this afternoon. I think all of us will find it very interesting, some of you may have already received it via email or postal mail. Since I received the message via postal mail, I'm going to type out the letter using the exact wording. Hopefully, I won't make any typo's. Here goes:

From: VVA Government Affairs Department [govtrelations@vva.org]

Sent: Friday, January 12, 2007 10:03 AM

Subject: Federal Court of Appeal overturns VA decision on Haas claims

IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Press Release - January 11, 2007 - No. 07-001

Contact: Mokie Porter - 301-585-4000, Ext. 146

VVA Applauds Court for Overturning Decision By VA Secretary on "Haas-Type Claims"

(Washington, D.C.) - The federal Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims on January 9th overturned a unilateral decision by the VA Secretary that had imposed a stay on so-called "Haas-type claims." These are claims for disability compensation for conditions presumptive to exposure to Agent Orange filed by service members who served in the offshore waters of Vietnam and earned the Vietnam Service Medal.

The court acted in favor of an appeal by Vietnam veteran Nicholas Ribaudo, whose claim had been placed on hold by the VA Secretary. The court determined that the VA had erred in issuing a unilateral stay on Haas-type claims, ruling that "the head of an executive agency does not have the authority to nullify the legal effect of a judicial decision." The Secretary did just that by imposing "a stay of indefinite duration without first seeking judicial imprimatur."

"The Secretary will decide Mr. Ribaudo's appeal in regular order according to its place upon the docket," the court stated, "and will apply this court's decision in Haas." The court had determined in Haas vs Nicholson in August 2006 that service members who served in the offshore waters of Vietnam and who had earned the Vietnam Service Medal would be eligible for disability compensation for exposure to Agent Orange.

"Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) applauds the court's decision to vacate the Secretary's precipitous administrative order and ordering that these cases be heard forthwith," said John Rowan, National President of VVA. "This decision reaffirms one of the central tenets of our Constitution, that we are a government of laws, not of men."

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To inquire about info concerning Agent Orange related illnesses, call Mike Ferderer at 952-935-8162 or e-mail mpferderer@comcast.net

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Note: If this Arly Times Edition was sent to you via US Mail and you now have a new or corrected email address, please email me so that I can update my records to avoid rejections.

God Bless America!

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Roster Additions and Changes:

(n) = new (c) = correction

(n) Callihan, Mike, FTG3 67-68, president@gunnisoncarclub.com

PO box 1311, Gunnison, CO 81230

(n) =Crooks, Thomas EN3 65-67 mustang7933@yahoo.com

401 Kendall Rd., Knoxville, TN 37919

(n) =Guthrie, Gary S., ETN2 65-68, ggvolman@gmail.com 2211 Jones Blvd.,

Murfreesboro, TN 37129

(n) Manore, Dave ETN2 67-68, labonte5@adelphia.net 805 Buchanan Rd.,

Utica, NY 13502

(n) =Myers, David C., ETCS 65-67 davidcmyers@mchsi.com 6202 Tia Ct NE,

Cedar Rapids, IA 52411

(n) Myers, Edward MMFN 69-70 Rocket088@aol.com 2832 Patricia Ave.

Antioch, Ca. 94509

(n) Reed, James L., BM3 68-69 roadtoadstar@msn.com 928 Cactus Ct.,

Barstow, CA 92311

Spokane, Wa. 99217

(n) Stuart, Larry A., EN2 68-69, lasnas@comcast.net

7367 Viewpoint Rd., Aptos, CA 95003

Remove from Active Roster and place on Deceased Shipmates List

Sept,/Oct 2006 Arly Times

This is sent out later than planned as Mike Ferderer was waiting for info for his Health Issues update and also was in the process of changing over his email address. It has truly been a busy month for news.

Be sure to check out www.ussarlington.com. Jim Arnold has caught the site completely up, adding attendance lists and photos from all previous reunions and has updated the Ship's Store page. In addition, he has cleaned off a lot of unworkable links, added new ones and created a new, easier to use Message Board. The old Message Board, full of spam, has been archived for those that may want to go read old messages. Bravo Zulu, Jim.

Norfolk Reunion: The Reunion was hi-lighted by several exciting events and surprises. Jim Arnold did a fantastic job as co-host, never letting anyone stay in need of anything. We are fortunate to have Jim. He has volunteered to help co-host future reunions, in addition to working on the deck planking and being our Webmaster.

On the way to Norfolk, Jim Arnold, my wife Marge and I stopped in Raleigh, NC to have lunch with our former Commanding Officer, Capt. Murphree and his lovely wife, Peggy. We presented "Cap'n Hugh" with several items on behalf of the Association. Among them was a photo of the Arlington, framed in a beautiful frame crafted (by Jim Arnold) from the Teak Deck Planking, with a brass plate acknowledging his command of Arlington. He was also given a finished piece of the deck planking with "Commanding Officer" on the brass plate. Peggy and Hugh hosted a delicious lunch for us and we spent nearly 3 hours, listening to the Capt. and Peggy talk of the Arlington and how much he enjoyed being its C.O. It was as close as Jim and I ever came to having lunch in the Wardroom. Hugh and Peggy send their best to all hands. You can see photos of our visit and the items given to Capt. Murphree and Peggy on the 2006 Reunion page of the website. A photo of Skipper Ken presenting the framed Arlington

photo to Cap'n Hugh is on the website.

At the reunion, we enjoyed many hours in the Hospitality Room with the usual Sea Stories, Fairy Tales, bear-hugs, and "I-wish-I-woulda-stayed-in's". Each crewmember received a piece of the deck planking with a brass plate and the ladies all got a set of coasters made by Glenn (Ray Hall) Newsom. Our Man's door prize was a framed picture of the Arlington in another of Jim Arnolds beautiful frames made from Deck Planking. The frames were made from scraps. We raffled off several other prizes, including more framed pictures.

Our day-long tour of the USS Wisconsin, the Nautilus Museum and the Norfolk Naval Station was one of the better guided tours that I have been on in various reunions. The Wisconsin was probably the best kept of the older ships, the Nautilus Museum was really great and, of course, The Naval Station just doesn't look a bit like it did in the 60's. Our Tour Guide on the Naval Base was a young lady sailor who kept us entertained as well as informed. (I just can't remember our Dress White uniform being as form fitting as the set she was wearing.)

Our stay at the hotel was excellent, and except for a minor mix-up with our meal menus, the Hotel Staff was very hospitable to us. The Radisson is located in down-town Norfolk which made it easy to look around town.

We are in touch with the photographer from the Reunion and they are waiting for our CD of candid photos in order to begin production of the Memory Book. I have just now received the last of the pictures that I was waiting for and will get a CD off to the Photographer. They will have Memory Books done and mailed out long before Christmas. I'll keep you updated.

2005 San Diego Reunion Memory Books. We finally received a CD from Eric Olaes, the San Diego Photographer that ripped us off. He gave no apologies nor excesses, simply sent me a CD filled with the portraits and photos that he took of our reunion. I have edited these photos and then forwarded them on to Jerry Jorgensen, who will be putting a Memory Book together for those that want one. If the cost is low enough, the Association may be able to pay to cost for those who ordered one from Olaes, but we may have to charge for them, depending on the cost of production and mailing.

2007 Reunion. Our next reunion will be Oct 3-7, 2007, co-Hosted by Mike Ferderer and Jim Cocking in Minneapolis, MN. Details will be promulgated as time progresses. No site was chosen for the 2008 Reunion, but Denny Peters is checking out Las Vegas. He reports that the prices in Vegas have gone up tremendously for hotels on the Strip and also that hotels did not seem willing to give him rates for 2008. Jim Arnold and I are checking out San Antonio, TX. From my preliminary scouting around, I'm seeing surprisingly varied Hotel Rates.

Deck Planking. We are about ready to make the deck planking pieces available to the shipmates. This planking was received in very rough shape, with creosote coating, bolt holes as well as nail holes and the teak is extremely hard. Jim Arnold and his neighbor have worked on this wood all year. They went through several saw blades, trimming, cutting and cleaning the wood to get presentable pieces. Some of the pieces were made the same size as the Plank Owner planks that we received, but in order to get more pieces, and avoid bolt holes most of the pieces are smaller. We will be having Brass plates made that state that it is original Deck Planking from the Arlington and either "Plank Owner" or "Crew Member", depending on the persons dates aboard the Arlington. It is not feasible to try to have individual names. This planking will be available for a price that will include the average cost of cleaning and preparation, the brass plate, Postage and a minimal donation. I think we a!

re looking in the area of $10. We will be ready very soon. Jim will also be making more picture frames from the scrap wood. Jim didn't throw anything away but sawdust. We will keep you updated. You can also look for news of this on the website.

DVD of Nixon Visit in July 1969. The 16mm movies that are contained on the DVD are not very long. They were taken on the Flight Deck only and are of Nixon's arrival, the hand shaking and Nixon's short speech. There is no sound and unless you know your standing there shaking his hand, there's very few close-ups of faces showing. It is about 15 minutes long. Jerry Jorgensen said that any one who is interested in receiving a copy, email him at jwj@mail.com and he will send them a copy when he gets time to copy it.

A new contact, RM2 Duaine Hagen operates a Dude Ranch in Wyoming. If you want to see some really beautiful scenery and check out his ranch, www.fiddlebackranch.net is his website. A visit to a Dude Ranch as a possibility for a future reunion? Who knows?

For mouse pads, coasters and golf shirts visit RM2 Glenn (Ray Hall) Newsom's website www.tigergraphics.org

Health Issues Update from Mike Ferderer: On August 16th the Court Of Appeals for Veterans Claims ruled in favor of the "Deep Blue Water" Sailors. The Arlington is considered by the VA to be a "Deep Blue Water" vessel. This is not totally true due to the mission of the ship and where it made its Patrols and that it made port in Cam Rahn Bay (a "Brown Water Port") twice during the1967 period. So was the Arlington a "Deep Blue" or "Brown" Water ship? My guess is we were a "Deep Blue Water" Ship making visits in "Brown Water" areas. The evaporators never were turned off. Never-the-less this was a Victory for All "Deep Blue Water" Sailors! The Arlington crew being among them.

The VA's Secretary of State Nicholson, under the current Bush Administration, is appealing this case. In the next few weeks we will see what takes place in the legal rankling. To date the VA, even though the Court of Appeals ruled in our favor, has not processed one claim.

In talking with some of the Veteran Advocates for all of us Veterans, it is presumed we will ultimately prevail. The current administration though is against our success, for the reason of COST. Many of us will or could die before we see any benefit, which is why you eed to file now, if you have a claim for Agent Orange Exposure. Agent Orange Exposure, like Asbestos Exposure, has a very long gestation period. It was originally thought to have been 20 years from exposure, but the NAS (National Academy of Science) is now saying 40-50 years from time of exposure. What Agent Orange does is accelerate a medical affliction like Diabetes, Prostrate Cancer, etc. There are 13 diseases that are currently recognized for being exposed to Agent Orange. The NAS representative told me two years ago that she thought there would be even more listed in the future. Recently, the New Zealand government had their University do a study and they have found that it changed the DNA of those exposed!

to Agent Orange.

We drank the water (which had the dioxide / chemical in it), and our evaporators gave it a boost to a 4-1 / 5-1 concentration factor. We breathed the air, and we ate the food from where the food sat on the docks/piers like Cam Rahn Bay. These are just some of the factors that we are dealing with.

Our ship's numbers, for those who have returned their Health Survey, is still holding at 87% having a medical affliction tied to Agent Orange. Further, the Vietnam era veteran is departing our world at 350 per day. There are approximately only 900,000 vets left from those that went to Vietnam.

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To inquire about info concerning Agent Orange related illnesses, call Mike Ferderer

at 952-935-8162 or e-mail mpferderer@comcast.net

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Note: Did you just get a computer and go on-line? Did you change your email address? If you received this by regular US Mail it is because we are not in contact with you via email. So if you have a new or corrected email address, please email me know so that I can change my records to avoid time consuming rejections. Please ensure that you nave my name and email address in your address book, to make me an authorized sender.

God Bless America!

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Roster Additions and Changes: (n) = new (c) = correction

(n) Murphree, Hugh, Capt. 69-70, phmurphree@earthlink.net

5301 Creedmoor Rd. # 407, Raleigh, NC 27612

(n) Abrahamson, Dean, LCDR 67-68, (No Email) 709 View Ridge Dr.,

Everett, WA 98203

(n) =Borne, Jerry, RM3 65-68, bborn48@msn.com, 7422 Quail Ridge Lane,

Bowie MD 20720

(n) Bryant, David L., RD3 68-69, (No email) 19419 N.E. 109th St.,

Bush Prairie, WA 98606

(n) Cummings, John L. (Lightning), EM3 '68-'69, Exminoas@comcast.net,

6608 W. 3rd. Street, Unit 50, Greeley, CO. 80634

(n) Dubman, Jerry, RM2 69-70, jdbuman@kcc.com

2321 Seneca Dr., Appleton, WI 54914

add an = in front of last name to indicate plank owner

(n) Howland, Nicholas (Nick) BM 69-70, nhowland@emortgagellc.com

800 Loudon Rd., Latham, NY 12110

(n) Marentis, Edward (Ed), SN 68-69, emarentis@aol.com

513 Seattle Dr., Port Ludlow, WA 98365

(n) Mathews, James L. (Jim), RM1 68-69 navseal2004@yahoo.com

2560 Charles Road Axson, Ga. 31624

(just drop the mi out of chartermi.net)

14409 W 123rd Ter., Olathe, KS 66062

(n) =Riedl, Roger A., RM3 65-68, rrgonebassin@hotmail.com

Route 2 Box 3A, Rush Center, KS 67575

(n) Walter, Dave, SN 66-67, lazdude@socal.rr.com Santa Clarita, CA 91351

August 2006 Arly Times

Shipmates.

First I wish to welcome our former Commanding Officer, Capt Hugh Murphree, his wife Peggy and daughter Troy to the USS Arlington AGMR-2 Association. Troy is responsible for sending us a copy of a CD made from the movies taken aboard the Arlington when President Nixon was aboard. I will be bringing this CD with me to the Reunion where it can be viewed by all, and after the reunion, copies will be made available to all hands who want them. The movies were taken on 23 July 69. I also received a very complimentary email from Peggy Murphree, that I treasure highly. She asked that I extend the Murphree's best to all hands and wishes us a successful and happy reunion in Norfolk. Health issues prevent the Murphree's from attending reunions. On behalf of the crew, I have extended Honorary Membership to Hugh, Peggy and Troy and also an open invitation, as our guests, to attend any reunion that may be close enough to them to permit attendance. Welcome aboard to Cap'n Murphree, Peggy an!

d Troy.

With only 27 days left before the reunion we are now up to 21 confirmed registrations with 5 or 6 more that have told me their registrations will be in the mail today. We are hoping for at least another 10 - 15 guys to register. Only about half are signing up for the Tour of Norfolk and the Base. Remember that we combined two tours into one for this to keep the cost down. Two seperate tours plus lunch would be at a higher cost. The $45 for the Norfolk and Base Tour is an all day tour and includes lunch at the Breezy Point Officers club. Since both the hosts will be gone, the Hospitality Room will be closed during the tour.

A reminder to those of you who are attending the reunion. Even though we have not scheduled a Spirit of America Cruise, they have extended a special military rate to us for the Friday, 10/6 12:00-2:00pm Harbor cruise. The military rate for the cruise, which includes a buffet meal and live entertainment is $30.00 per person. Brochures will be in each reunion attendees packet and there will be a sign up sheet in the registration area. The Spirit of Norfolk docks within walking distance of the Norfolk Radisson. Check out www.spiritofnorfolk.com.

In the last Arly Times, Glenn Newsom (Ray Hall) website was featured. He makes and sells mousepads and coasters from his home. Due to a problem with his domain name, he had to change his website address. In doing so, he also changed the website all around, making everything easier to access and also explains how he makes the mousepads and coasters. Check out www.tigergraphics.org and click on the USS Arlington button at the right had top of the page. I'll have sample mouse pads, coasters and a Golf Shirt at the reunion for you to look at.

Health Issues Update: Here's some info from Crew Members who have submitted Claims to the VA:

IMPORATANT to FILE /or/ to ADD to your CLAIM

It is now important for all Veterans who currently have filed or will file a claim to include the following verbiage or similar in/to your claim. Filing a claim now is very important as this is currently the LAW of the LAND in this most recent decision.

I request consideration / reconsideration (of my claim or reconsideration of the claim I have filed Claim #________) of service connected disabilities related to Agent Orange Exposure during my military service aboard the USS Arlington (AGMR-2) in Vietnam from _______ to _______ in light of the August 16, 2006 Court of Appeals Veterans Claims (CAVC) ruling. That Veterans who served in Vietnam and its/the contiguous waters and with the award of the Vietnam Service Medal should be afforded presumptive Service Connection for Disabilities associated with Agent Orange Exposure.

SOME HISTORY of this DECISION

On August 16, 2006, the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC) decided that Service in the Republic of Vietnam included certain blue water sailors in the U.S. Navy who never set foot on land in Vietnam. The CAVC reversed a decision made earlier by the VA and the current administration when they denied the fact that Deep Blue Water Sailors were exposed to Agent Orange. The VA and the administration arbitrarily changed the VA Manual - M21-1, part III, paragraph 4.24(e), change 88 (Feb. 27, 2002). This is now SET ASIDE pursuant to 38 U.S.C. ' 7261(a)(3)(D) by the court. The intent of the VA and the current administration was to prevent Sailors like those sailors from the Arlington from filing claims for Benefits and Compensation for Agent Orange Exposure. Below is a conclusion of the case.

CONCLUSION

After consideration of the appellant's and the Secretary's briefs, oral argument as presented on January 10, 2006, and a review of the record on appeal, the Court finds that VA's regulation defining "service in the Republic of Vietnam," 38 C.F.R. ' 3.307(a)(6)(iii), is permissible pursuant to Chevron; however, the regulation is ambiguous.

VA's argued interpretation of the regulatory term "service in the Republic of Vietnam," affording the application of the presumption of exposure to herbicides only to Vietnam-era veterans who set foot on land and not to the appellant, is inconsistent with long-standing agency views, plainly erroneous in light of legislative and regulatory history, and unreasonable, and must be SET ASIDE. In this case, the M21-1 provision allowing for the application of the presumption of exposure to herbicides based on the receipt of the VSM controls.

The February 2004 Board decision, therefore, is REVERSED to the extent that the Board denied the appellant the presumption of exposure to herbicides and the matter is REMANDED with instructions to apply the presumption in a manner consistent with the interpretation set forth in this opinion.

If service connection for diabetes mellitus is awarded upon remand, VA should ensure appropriate processing of the appellant's claims for secondary service connection for peripheral neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy, claimed as residuals of diabetes mellitus.

Furthermore, M21-1, part III, paragraph 4.24(e), change 88 (Feb. 27, 2002), is SET ASIDE pursuant to 38 U.S.C. ' 7261(a)(3)(D).

I recommend that any member see his Service Officer to help them with the filing of the Claim or Re-Filing of the Claim they currently have on file. Nothing gets done unless you do it yourself.

A reference to this decision can be found in accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. section 107. /Or/ reference VA WATCHDOG.ORG /Or/ http:www.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.shtml.

If anyone has any questions please contact Michael Ferderer the Health Coordinator for the Arlington Association. Mpferderer@msn.com.

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Note: If you received this by postal mail and have a new or corrected email address, please send me an email and let me know so I can change my records to avoid future rejections.

God Bless America!

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Roster Additions and Changes:

(n) = new (c) = correction

(n) Bolan, John W., BMCS 67-68 jbolan@optonline.net

72 Elm St., Edison, NJ -8817

(n) Marlowe, Joseph A. (Tiny), BMSN 66-67, NVGDAD@AOL.COM

1348 Power House Rd., Memphis, NY 13122

(n) Pearson, Tom BTFN 69-70, semidecenttom@yahoo.com San Antonio, TX

(Contact Ken Cox for mailing address)

(n) =Slay, William H., CS3 66-68 whslay@alltel.net 43208 Dellefield Rd.,

Elyria, Ohio 44035.

June/July 2006 Arly Times

Due to the lack of news, the Arly Times will now be sent out Bi-monthly (except for the Reunion Information and Reunion Wrap-up issues). Anyone who has anything they'd like to share, send it along and I'll be sure to publish it for you. Personal websites are a plus.

Norfolk 2006 Reunion: With approximately 12 weeks to go, only 8 shipmates have sent registrations, and probably 5 are "in the mail". Again you are asked to get your registrations to me as soon as you can and be sure to get your hotel reservations made before Sep 4th. The hotel informed me they are filling fast and since we only blocked 25 rooms, if you don't get your reservation in soon, you may not be able to be guaranteed the Arlington reunion rate. Remember, you can always cancel the hotel reservation if you find that you can't make it to Norfolk. If you need another registration sheet, email me or call me (863-307-3187) and I'll get one off to you asap.

For those shipmates that live in or close to the Norfolk area and don't want to go on the Norfok tour, that's understandable. But if you want to attend the dinners and the dance with the rest of the guys, you need to fill out the registration form. The $25 Registration fee is used to pay for the Hospitality Room Refreshments, Disk Jockey, Souvenirs and other items not covered by the cost of the Tours and Meals. If you just want to stop by and visit, that's fine, too, a donation jar will be available to help defray the cost of refreshments.

Even though we have not scheduled a Spirit of America Cruise, they have extended a special military rate to us for the Friday, 10/6 12:00-2:00pm Harbor cruise. The military rate for the cruise, which includes a buffet meal and live entertainment is $30.00 per person. Brochures will be in each reunion attendees packet and there will be a sign up sheet in the registration area. www.spiritofnorfolk.com. The Spirit of Norfolk docks within walking distance of the Norfolk Radisson.

RM2 Glenn (Ray Hall) Newsom contacted me concerning his website. He's pretty much confined to his home and is creating a website offering custom mouse pads and coasters as a home business. He has designed some USS Arlington & USS Cony items for me and has done a fantastic job. Plus his prices are very reasonble. Check his website out: http://www.boraxxgraphics.com At the top of the home page and you'll see some buttons. Click on the Arlington button and it'll bring up some neat looking mousepads and coasters. We will not stock them in the Ship's Store, so any interested persons can order items directly from Glenn on his webiste. They will make nice Birthday or Christmas gifts for family. I will definitely be shoppig on Glenn's site for future reunion souvenirs for the USS Arlington and USS Cony. He makes ordering easy by working through PayPal.

AGENT ORANGE & ASBESTOS - Jun/July 06

There is not a lot to report except that I had some MSN Software issues and I have been unable to access the AGMRHealth@msn.com e-mail address for a while. I just got back in. Please e-mail all Health Surveys to: mpferderer@msn.com . (Within the next month and a half this address will change to a COMCAST E-mail address due to the continuing problems with the Quest DSL and MSN address issue).

We are still running 3 out of 4 personnel who send in their Health Surveys as having Medical Afflictions related to Agent Orange.

I have two new documents from the Viet Nam Veterans of America that support individual claims. It appears one has to go the full process. I have been told this is also for Social Security Disability Claims. Budgets are tight and the hope is that we will all go away.

I will have available, through Ken, the new documents from the Viet Nam Veterans of America that will support your case and I will be rewriting our "White Paper" reflecting those documents within the next two weeks.

To add to, or inquire about, information concerning Agent Orange related illnesses, call me at 952-935-8162 or e-mail mpferderer@msn.com or AGMRHealth@msn.com.

I hope you are each having a wonderful Summer.

Regards,

Mike

Michael P Ferderer

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Note: If you receive this by mail and have a new or corrected email address,

please email me know so that I can change my records to avoid rejections.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

God Bless America!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Roster Additions and Changes: (n) = new (c) = correction

(n) Brewer, John L. BT3 65-68 brewer398@peoplepc.com

Rt. 1, Box 398, Elmore City, OK 73433.

(n) =Bugbee, Karl RD3 66-68, kbugtx@yahoo.com

PO Box 2583, Wylie, TX 75098

(n) Foster, Rick, E-3 67-69 Rickaf@yahoo.com (Rick - please

contact me again. This email address you sent is no good

and we also need your mailing address for the roster.)

WA 98661

117 Ritzman Lane, Kalispell, MT 59901

California (Address not listed - contact Ken Cox)

(n) Tromans, James SN 69-70 jtromans1@nycap.rr.com

75 Clifton St., Waterford, NY 12188

(n) Wilson, William L. (Bill) GMG3 68-69 awilson34@cox.net

1107 E. 10th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762

April/May 2006 Arly Times

After a week long bout with the flu, I've finally got time to get off the April/May issue.

Attached to this is the Oct. Norfolk Reunion Registration Form and Tentative Schedule. I will be gone on vactation from the 1st of June until the 19th of June. If you want to wait until the 19th to submit your registration, that's ok, if you want to send it now, that's fine, too, I have made sufficient arrangments for my mail. I would like to have all registrations in by the 15th of September.

Once again, I cannot stress strongly enough to call the Radisson and get your Hotel Reservations made ASAP. The hotel may not have available rooms after the 4th of September.

Dues Payable. A few weeks ago I sent out dues reminders to those whose dues expired in Jan/Feb/Mar of this year. So far only a relatively few persons have responded with their dues. I really don't have the time, or the inclination to constantly send out dues reminders. The dues are only $10 a year, lowered to this from the original $20 because the members didn't feel it was necessary to build up a large "coffer" since our expenses are limited. So again I will remind you, if you received a notice of dues payable, please send them on to me. I will send out another notice sometime in July to cover the entire first half of 06.

Nixon Visit on CD. We recently received a gift from Troy Murphree, son of Capt. Murphree. His Dad had 16mm films taken of the Nixon visit to the Arlington on 7-23-69. The films were put on a CD and Troy graciously sent us a copy. This will be brought to the Norfolk Reunion for the guys to watch and arrangements will be made to distribute copies, for a small amount to cover reproduction, packaging and postage. You may be in this movie, especially if you were part of the greeting on the Flight Deck.

From CS3 Norm Lewis: The USS Arlington has been registered with frappr.com. You can register your name and city, your pic, if you want. Then you can click around and see where everyone is from. (note that "Arlington" is misspelled.) http://www.frappr.com/ussarlingtionagmr2

MINNEAPOLIS 2007 Reunion Planning:

The Planning Meeting for the October 2007 Arlington Annual Reunion and a Mini-Reunion was held on Saturday, April 22,2006.

In attendance were: Jim Cocking (Co-host for the reunion) and his wife Mary from Des Moines, IA; Thomas (Tom) Wermerskirchen, from Mankato, MN; Jim "Woody" Woodard, Blain, MN: Dave Winter, New Hope, MN; Dan Miller, Wisconsin; Hilmer Erickson, Golden Valley, MN (A Former USS Saipan crew member); Mike Ferderer (Co-host), Minnetonka, MN.

All Midwest Arlington Association will share co-hosting duties Jim and Mike for the Oct 2007 reunion.

The key results of the Planning Meeting were:

The date has been Established as October 3 through October 7, 2007
The HOLIDAY INN SELECT in Bloomington, MN will be the Reunion Hotel for our Minneapolis Reunion.
Some events were discussed and at a Future Planning Meeting will be confirmed.

Health Issues Update.

The returned Health Survey’s are still indicating that roughly 87% of those returning Health Surveys demonstrate Agent Orange associated medical afflictions.

The Arlington Association members are starting to get results back from their claims that they have filed to the VA for Health Care and disability compensation. Interestingly, the VA has said that the USS Arlington did not make passage to Vietnam. Then how was the Arlington granted the Vietnam Service medals and how did we receive "Combat Pay"?

Don’t be alarmed as it was expected that the VA would try and use this tactic! These are ways for the VA to stall and hope that we go away (die) and for the VA to slow down the claims process

I now have three documents from the "Vietnam Veterans of America" that were issued by VA Administrative LAW Judges that have issued decisions on cases similar to ours and that were ruled in favor of the sailors. So if you receive a letter from the VA disclaiming/rejecting your claim we now have additional documents that show the VA has granted claims to other sailors and ships that served with us. Further, these new decisions demonstrate that the VA is not showing parody or treating all claims equally. I will scan these new documents into my computer and I will add them to the CD’s we send out.

If you have not returned your Health Survey form please do so. Additionally if you have changes or addition let me know either in e-mail (mpferderer@msn.com) or phone me. If you phone me and leave a message - please talk slowly so I can understand your number and return your call My number is 952-935-8162.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

To add to, or inquire about, information concerning Agent Orange related

illnesses contact the USS Arlington Association Health Issues Coordinator:

Mike Ferderer: email: AGMRHealth@msn.com or Phone: 952-935-8162

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Note: If you receive this by mail and have a new or changed email address,

please let me know so that I can change my records to avoid rejections.

God Bless America!

Ken Cox, Skipper, USS Arlington Association
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Roster Additions and Changes:
(n) = new (c) = correction

PO Box 83, Dell, AR 72426

pfriedlander01@comcast.net 2312 Lakewood Drive,

Paducah, KY 42003

rcjacinski@bellsouth.net 119 Magnolia Dr., Many, LA 71449

Graham, WA 98338

March 2006 Arly Times

REUNION UPDATE. The planning stages of the 2006 Reunion are in

the final phase. There have been a couple of minor changes to report, but

all in all, the info in the last issue of Arly Times remains the same. I did make

a typo when describing the menus. The Friday Buffet is not Roast Beef and

Stuffed Salmon. We have the Roast Beef Au Jur for the Saturday Farewell

Banquet. Friday's Buffet will feature Stuffed Salmon and Roast Loin of Pork

w/Apple Compote Glaze.The way I had it before, it looked like we were

having Roast Beef for both meals.

The Radisson has asked me to encourage Reunion Attendees to get their

hotel reservations made ASAP. The Reunion Rate of $95.00 + tax will be

good for 2 days prior and 2 days after the reunion as long as the hotel has

rooms available. Our guaranteed room block is only for the actual days of

the reunion. If the hotel fills up prior to the reunion or after the reunion, they

cannot give us the special reunion rate for the extra days. If you plan to go

to the reunion, make your reservations ASAP. You can always cancel if you

can't make it. Phone the Hotel direct at 757-627-5555 for best results. If

you experience any difficulty getting the room rate on the extended days,

ask to speak with Kim Straus, or another Sales Rep in the Sales Office.

Please don't put it off, MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW.

SHIRTS AND JACKETS WITH USS ARLINGTON ASSN LOGO.

I have come in contact with a company that has great prices on jackets,

shirts, etc. with an embroidered Arlington logo. Since our Ship's Store

and funds do not allow for stocking and selling jackets, golf shirts and

t shirts, this is an excellent way to get nice items showing your pride in

USS Arlington. I have one of the wind breakers and it is excellent quality.

The Company, "Naval Shopping" has set up a special page on their web

site with pictures and prices. Originally, they were going to send a portion

of each sale to the Association Funds, but I declined that since it would

bring Income Tax headaches. So they reduced the prices even further to

give the guys an extra discount. www.navalshopping.com/arlington .

NAVY LOG - US NAVY MEMORIAL FOUNDATION.

I received several emails from different shipmates about the Navy Log.

From now through the end of July, all Sea Service members/veterans can

enroll in the U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation's Navy Log without charge.

"The Navy Log is the permanent public registry where sea service members

and veterans can record their service information - name, duty stations,

awards, photos and memories". For those interested, go to their website:

www.lonesailor.org

OBTAINING A COPY OF YOUR SERVICE RECORD.

Steve Ulbrich sent me a nice 3 page informative email concerning the

procedures to use to get a copy of your service record. Due to space

there is no way I can include this, nor is there a link I can send, but if you

are interested, email me and I will email you a copy or snail mail you a

copy if you are receiving this via regular mail.

MIDWEST (Minneapolis) PLANNING MEETING for 2007 OCT ASSOC.

REUNION AND MINI-REUNION

Jim Cocking and Mike Ferderer, Co-Hosts of the October 2007 Reunion to be

held in Minneapolis, MN will have a Planning Meeting on Sat., April 22, 2006

in Minneapolis/Minnetonka, MN. They will combine this meeting into a one-day

mini-reunion for the Midwest former crewmembers. Everyone is invited. The

location will be at Mike's home unless the attendance gets to large. It would then

be moved to a large facility to accommodate a larger crowd.

Please RSVP to Mike if you plan to attend by April 8, 2006. Thank you.

Mike Ferderer

16836 Canterbury Drive

Minnetonka, MN 55345

HM # (952) 935-8162 or email him at mpferderer@msn.com

AGENT ORANGE & ASBESTOS UPDATE.

Currently our Health Survey depicts that 87% of shipmates who have returned

the Arlington Health Survey Form now have and are experiencing the medical

afflictions as the result of Agent Orange or Asbestos Exposure.

If you have not returned a Health Survey please take a few minutes and fill one

out and do so, it is for your fellow shipmates! Agent Orange and Asbestos has

an incubation period of 40+ years per the National Academy Of Science (NAS).

By completing the survey we can reflect accurately the actual number(s) of all

medical afflictions and those having no symptoms of exposure. The info is private

and will not be disclosed. Currently, I am the only one who sees or has this info.

This is done to protect your privacy. The USS Arlington was exposed via Water,

Food, and Air, and we transported the barrels from Yokosuka to Subic Bay.

Further, many members are now in the process of filing claims for Asbestos and

Agent Orange Exposure. It takes months to go through this process. Due to this

long process, I can not provide where we sit with numbers with those who have

been awarded or not awards claims. In addition, I have not asked members to

report back with a status if they have won or lost in their claims efforts. There is

a new 19 page "White Paper" that can be attained by e-mailing me at

mpferderer@msn.com.

The US Court of Appeals for Vets Claims recently made a decision in the case

of Dingess/Hartman v. Nicholson (2006). I suggest that you call your advocate

or claims officer. The Decision requires that the VA provide additional info about

the evidence the VA needs to make a decision on your claim. For more infor go

to google.com, type in: Dingess/Hartman v. Nicholson (2006) and you can read

up about the ruling. It is positive for the Veteran and his / Her family.

If you need a CD that will help you file a claim let Ken Cox know and he will

send you one for the $5.00 cost of making and mailing the CD, with any left

over funds going to the Association. The data on the CD will provide you with

the forms and backup material to provide the VA your claim. The cost to run

all the material off is around $40.00 at KINKOS. You can run it off on your

home computer but as you will see, you will need a lot of paper.

If you have any questions regarding Agent Orange or Asbestos, can contact

Mike Ferderer at: E-mail: mpferderer@msn.com or phone (952) 935-8162

in the AM hours or between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

TAPS:

We lost two shipmates during March this year. Tom Fisher and Bob Jakway.

Ian Lanouette attended "Fish's" services representing the Arlington Association.

We didn't learn of Bob Jakway's death until after his interment.)

Fisher, Tom (Fish), ET1 passed away 6 Mar 2006

Jakway, Robert, RM1 passed away 6 Mar 2006

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

To add to, or inquire about, information concerning Agent Orange related

Illinesses contact the USS Arlington Association Health Issues Coordinator:

Mike Ferderer: email: AGMRHealth@msn.com or Phone: 952-935-8162

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Note: If you receive this by mail and have a new or changed email address,

please let me know so that I can change my records to avoid rejections.

God Bless America!

Ken Cox, Skipper, USS Arlington Association

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Roster Additions and Changes:

(n) = new (c) = correction

All else remains the same.

ceh1pa@adelphia.net 8631 Old Waterford Rd., Erie, PA 16509

(n) Hoogendoorn, Jim, SN 66-67, jimhoog@hickorytech.net

500 So. 2nd St., Doon, IA 51235

1455 SW Sunset Dr., Madras, OR 97741

(n) Nielsen, Roy, SFMFN 69-70, clayvessels@amerion.com

PO Box 241, Elmer City, WA 99124

(n) =Wilcoxen, Michael J., (Mike) GMG2 65-68 mike_wilcoxen@comcast.net

12900 SW 107th Ct., Tigard, OR 97223

Survivors List:

(n) Kramer, Cathy (Daughter of RM1 Robt. Jakway) catk0313@juno.com

4025 Spring Park Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32207

Jan 2006 Arly Times

Dear Shipmates:

After quite a bit of researching, phone calling and haggling, our reunion is just about put together. As of this date, this is what we are looking at.

The Norfolk reunion is Wed, Oct 4th, 2006 to the morning ofSun, Oct 8th, 2006 at the Downtown Radisson. Room rates are $95.00 + tax with free parking. We get a complimentary Hospitality Room, where we can bring our own Refreshments. The Hotel is downtown and well within walking distance of all the downtown attractions. We will have only 1 tour day. We'll go to the Nauticus, have a bus tour of Norfolk itself, and then a tour of the naval base. The tour will cost $45 per person. It's an all day tour and lunch at the Breezy Point Officer's club is included.

On Friday night we'll have a Buffet dinner-featuring Roast of Beef and Stuffed Salmon. (With a featured side dish of good ole S.O.S. - by request). Then on Saturday, we'll have our usual Farewell Banquet and DJ/Dance. The banquet will be a plated dinner with choice of Roast Beef au Jus and Chicken Marsala. The Buffet will run $33 per person and the Farewell Banquet and Dance will cost $35 per person.

We will start taking Reunion Registrations in either April or May. Hotel Reservations can be made at any time through their Central Reservations 1-800-333-3333. Or your can visit their website at:

http://www.radisson.com/norfolkva

More concise reunion information will be disseminated as we get the contracts all signed, sealed and delivered.

For those of you who attended the San Diego reunion and ordered the Memory books, I can only apologize. I have tried and tried to get some sort of action from Eric Olaes, the Photographer. At first he responded to my inquiries but have

heard nothing as of late. Robert Chubinsky has said that he will check with Eric, but hasn't replied to me. In the future, we will stick with Dunning & Co. out of Alabama, which is a very reputable Photographer.

A dream of mine is just a little bit closer today. I coached the first USS Arlington Softball Team and I had hoped to locate all of the team members. In the past month, two more players have been located: Bo Files and Larry Allen. "Who'd a thunk it?" The whole team except for Bob Corcoran and Danny Costner is now on the Crew Members Roster. Of course, our Short Stop, Bill Keith, has gone on to serve our Supreme Commander.

Several of our Shipmates have sent their website links to me. So many that a short description is all I can do. But check them out. Some are Family websites, others are businesses and a couple are humanitarian in nature. The websites are featured to show y'all what your shipmates are doing these days.

Cruz Bustillos's Car Club (some nice old cars here.) www.coppercountrycruizers.com

Ken Cooksey's Yahoo Groups to help doomed animals: (These guys transport once doomed animals from shelters to new adoptive homes across the country.)

ontheroadagain@yahoogroups.com

OTRA_Breed_Rescue@yahoogroups.com

Marlin Deaver's Personal Website: http://lazytd.home.comcast.net/navarl.htm

Chuck Geiter's Personal Website: www.militarysoul.org

Don Gibson's Video Photography & Production site www.hg-studios.com

Harris Kern's Investigative site http://www.brockwellinvestigations.com/

"Yogi's Plight" Ben Baker reports that "Yogi" Boyles had received quite a bit of help from the Shipmates. He has a newer apartment with more amenities, has eye surgery scheduled and is receiving assistance from the Embassy with his Social Security. Thanks to all the Shipmates that helped Yogi out in his time of need.

Art Eadie sent along the web link for the Naval Institute. He is ordering a Plank Owner Certificate from the Naval Institute Store. I checked the link out and by clicking around, you can come up with a page to order all sorts of certificates. They are not copies of the actual certificates awarded to you while you were in the Navy, you can order them blank and fill in your own information, or you can have them personalized by providing the necessary information when you order the certificate. Looks like a nice way to replace lost certificates for memorabilia.

http://www.usni.org/webstore/shopdisplaysubcat.asp?id=18&cat=Certificates

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To add to, or inquire about, information concerning Agent Orange related
Illnesses contact the USS Arlington Association Health Issues Coordinator:
Mike Ferderer: email: AGMRHealth@msn.com or Phone: 952-935-8162
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Note: If you receive this by mail and have a new or changed email address,
please let me know so that I can change my records to avoid rejections.

God Bless America!

Ken Cox, Skipper, USS Arlington Association
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Roster Additions and Changes:
(n) = new (c) = correction

(n) =Allen, Larry L. (Lum) RM3 65-69 lallen10@hotmail.com 1432 W. Harbour Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68522

(n) Barnabee, Lawrence A. (LA), SN 66-68 (no email) 9710 S. Kedzie Ave., Evergreen PK. IL 60806

(n) Barnabee, Michael J. (MJ), SN 65-68 mjbarnabee@mchsi.com 180 A Brompton Ln., Sugar Grove, IL 60554

(n) Campanella, Martin M. jr., mcampyjr@floodcity.net PO Box 5221, Johnstown, PA 15904

(n) Files, Robt. A. (Bo), RM2 65-69, (for mailing address contact Ken Cox) Prescott Valley, AZ

(n) Hodges, Gordon D., RM2 69-70, godoh_2000@yahoo.com PO Box 193, Midway, AR 72651

(n) McLachlin, Robert R. DDS, (no rank/yrs) drmac@ddsgroup.com Palm Desert, CA

(n) Messamore, James F. (Frank), RM3 67-69 jmessamore@yahoo.com 94-316 Hilihua Way, Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

(n) Salitore, Raymond E., CS2 ??, caraysal@aol.com Vancouver, WA 98685

mailto:jmessamore@yahoo.com

Oct 2005 Arly Times

First, a discussion of Chuck Geiter's suggestion to give a name to the
Monthly Updates was held at the San Diego Reunion and several names
were suggested. Since the original USS Arlington newspaper was known
as "The Arlington Times" it was decided to adopt the same name, but in
an original way, and call this newsletter update "The Arly Times".

Secondly, I'm sorry this is a few days late, but I have been extremely busy
moving to our new home. Marge and I now live in Winter Haven, FL. We
were really fortunate to get a great deal on a spacious, 3 BR Mfg home in
a beautiful Community. My new address is in the address updates below.

Our 4th Annual Reunion was about the same size as the Charleston and
Mobile Reunions, with 37 Shipmates in attendance and a grand total of 63
persons. The Handlery Hotel treated us like the Vets we are. The staff was
continually polite and helpful. Our pool-side Hospitality Room was large and
comfortable. The USS Midway Museum trip was extremely interesting and
we were all in awe of the complete tour given by your own set of headphones.
Walking around the ship with the headphones on gave an interesting history
of Midway and her crews. Ken Cox stayed at the hotel to keep the Hospitality
Room open while Robert Chubinsky took the guys and their guests to the
"sprawling metropolis" of Tijuana, Mexico. Lots of memories were shared
by the guys while the wives did the shopping. San Diego attractions filled up
the free day, some went to the Navy Base, some made it to the Casino
for gaming pleasure and others lounged around the pool.

Eric's Photos of San Diego was the Photographer and the guys were able to
see and order their photographs on the spot. Eric did a fine job with the
individual portraits, a group photo was taken and Eric is creating a Reunion
Memory Book. Eric was on the Midway Trip with us and also came into the
dining area during the Farewell Banquet and some of the Dance/Karaoke.
You can see the pics that Eric took, and order a Memory Book through the
website. Just go to www.ericsphoto.com, click in the "Find your photos"
Button and then click on USS Arlington Reunion.

I took pictures of all the guys and their wives & other guests, as they checked
in. Once I get the photos on a CD with names properly assigned, I'll send
them on to Rick Couser for posting on the website.

For you who may have contributed to our shipmate, Tom "Yogi" Boyles,
Ben Baker and Leon Niewinski have provided us with an update. It seems
that Yogi is doing much better. He is still in Chaing Mai,Thailand, but is in
safer, more pleasant surroundings. He has more amenities to make his
life more enjoyable and now has a phone (66 53 217291). His health is
improving, he has surgery scheduled soon for his eyes. He wanted us to
express his thanks to all those who have assisted him and wants them to
know that he will get back to them when he is able.

John Davis asked me to send thanks to those who offered to send old state
license plates for his son's new collection and special thanks to Dave Boger
and Roe Karstetter who have already sent plates to John. If you have an
old license plate around, contact John, he'll be glad to reimburse the cost
of shipping. jdavis2409@aol.com.

John also sent an item of interest. Capt. John William Newland, Jr. USN Ret.
passed away on 12 October in Wheaton, Maryland . Capt Newland, was the
first skipper of the USS Annapolis (AGMR-1)

Jim Arnold and myself are working on the 2006 reunion at this time. We
are perusing offers made by hotels. We are doing the best we can to come
up with relatively moderate prices, while not sacrificing comfort. We should
have some results and preliminary plans by next update. We will be taking
registrations starting around March or April. The reunion is being planned
for the first week in October, probably around Oct 4th to 8th, or thereabouts.
That's the best we can provide you with at this time.

Welcome Aboard to newly contacted shipmates:
SHSN Bill Bagis 68-69, RD1 Bob Hyam 65-68
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To add to, or inquire about, information concerning Agent Orange related
Illnesses contact the USS Arlington Association Health Issues Coordinator:
Mike Ferderer: email: AGMRHealth@msn.com or Phone: 952-935-8162
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

God Bless America!

Ken Cox, Skipper, USS Arlington Association
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Roster Additions and Changes:
(n) new     (c) correction     = Ship Plank Owner

(c)    Abernathy, Jan change email address to jan_mar@bellsouth.net
(n)    Bagis, William D., SHSN 68-69, pjwdb@hotmail.com
        8031 E. Gallagher Lane, Sumner, IL 62466
(c)    Brown, Tom change email address to: bees326@earthlink.net
(c)    Cox, Kenneth: change mailing address and phone number to:
         104 Winterdale Dr., Winter Haven, FL 33801 PH: 863-307-3187
(c)    Dorsher, Jerry change email address to: jdorsh@hotmail.com
(c)    Erdes, Bill change email address to: scubedu@insightbb.com
(n)    =Hyam, Robert, RD1 65-68, bobhyam@yahoo.com 5756 Aldea Ave
             Encino, CA 91316
(c)    Miller, Tom change email address to: aprofotogone@wmconnect.com
(c)    Rintz, Dave change email address to: rintzd@bellsouth.net
(c     Snyder, Frank change email address to: puppafrank@bellsouth.net
(c)     Taylor, Warren change email address to: warrentaylor@bellsouth.net

Nov/Dec 2005 Arly Times

Dear Shipmates:

This is going to serve as a dual edition, for Nov/Dec 2005. So if you think
you may have missed an edition in November, this is the reason.
Jim Arnold and I spent the better part of a month attempting to get a good,
reasonably priced reunion set up in Arlington County, VA. However, due
to the nature of the area itself (Government, Tourism, Business trips, etc.,
the hotels hold the upper hand and absolutely will not work you. All rates
are very high, none of them would give a Complimentary Hospitality Room,
we are not allowed to bring our own refreshments into the Hospitality room
and the price of theirs is out of sight, as well as the price of Banquet Menus.
In addition, almost all of the hotels do not have free parking and charge their
guests parking fees of anywhere from $10 to $20 per day. Since one of our
reunion goals is to keep the expenses low and still give a memorable
reunion, Jim and I researched Norfolk, VA. We found Hotel rates are close
to DC prices, but all other areas fit our needs. We settled on the Radisson in
downtown Norfolk. The rate is $95 per night ($107.00 with tax), but we get a
Hospitality Room, free parking, our own refreshments. The Hotel is within
walking distance of the waterfront, Nauticus, USS Wisconsin and Harbor.
We are planning on a Harbor Cruise on a sailing ship, a trip to the Wisconsin
and/or a tour of the Naval Base. Jim is working on that right now. So mark
your calendars: Norfolk, Virginia Oct 4th - Oct 8th, 2006.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
VIP - Veteran's In-Home Pension
Here's some information, sent to me by a USS Cony Shipmate that
may be useful to some of our shipmates. It concerns a pension that

is available to Veterans and Surviving Spouses. To ensure accuracy,
I contacted a DAV Representative that I know quite well and he affirmed
the existence of the program. He stated it is called "Aid and Attendance".
He states that he does them frequently. In 1952, the VA established a
pension program for Vets and their spouses to receive services at home
or help with Assisted Living costs. That program is still in effect today.

Who Qualifies? You may be eligible if you are a Vet or the surviving
spouse of a veteran who:
@Served at least 90 days or more on active duty
@Served at least one day during a period of war.

  @ Is in need of assistance at home or at as assisted living residence
The pension is based on time in military service, current income, your
needs and liquid assets. For more information Contact Your local VA
Office's Social Worker.
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A couple of months ago, I reported that I had been contacted by a
company dealing in merchandise such as hats, golf shirts, jackets
and other items and they are offering a 40% discount to Ship Assns.
They sent me a sample windbreaker that I took to the San Diego Reunion
to display for them. It's good a quality windbreaker, with the same logo
as on our hats embroidered on the left side of the front. They will set up
a direct link to their website for Arlington guys to go directly to and buy
items. But it will be a bonus to the guys in the Association since we can't
afford to stock wind breakers, shirts and such in our small ship's store.
As soon as I get the link and check it out to make sure that it says all
that they said it would, I will promulgate the info to you. I just want to be
sure that they will do what they say. I got to look out for the troops.
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I received an email from Lee and Nancy Wilbourne concerning Lee's new
website that I thought I would pass on to all the Racing Enthusiasts. Lee
has a Metal Works where he builds custom race cars. Check it out. Some
outstanding craftsmanship: www.bonnevillebadboys.com. If any of you
guys have a website you would like me to feature and send out to the guys,
drop me a quick email and we'll "Git 'R Dun".
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Association Dues. January and February are big months for Members whose
due become payable again. I will send out email reminders in January for
Jan, Feb and March. Those of you who have already received notices for
Oct, Nov and Dec will have their memberships lapse 90 days after the month
your dues were payable. Email me if you want an early notice on your dues.
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RM2 John Davis sends thanks to all of those who have sent license plates
to him for his son's collection. He still needs lots of plates and we have guys
in lots of states. (That rhymes.) If you have an old plate that you can send
John, contact him to find out what they still need: Jdavis2409@yahoo.com
or (518) 783-9253
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To add to, or inquire about, information concerning Agent Orange related
Illnesses contact the USS Arlington Association Health Issues Coordinator:
Mike Ferderer: email: AGMRHealth@msn.com or Phone: 952-935-8162
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Note: If you receive this by mail and have a new or changed email address,
please let me know so that I can change my records to avoid rejections.

God Bless America!

Ken Cox, Skipper, USS Arlington Association
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Roster Additions and Changes:
(n) = new     (c) = correction

(n)    =Cardenas, Dan, GMG3 66-67, dcard69035@aol.com
          20210 Pinefield Ct., Humble, TX 77338
(c)    Clark, Ron change email address: reclarkcelt@alltel.net

(n)    Creacy, George, PNSN 69-70, geocreacy@msn.com
        PO Box 21, Roy, UT 84067
(c)    Estes, Jim change email address: prichett@charter.net
(c)    Godsey, Dave change email address: godseldl@yahoo.com
(c)    Hesketh, Ken change mailing address: 1030 S. Vineyard Dr. E.,
        Pahrump, NV 89048
(n)    Meccia, Michael (Mike), RM2 1969, infobase_usa@yahoo.com
        2616 Shady Brook Dr., Bedford, TX 76021
(n)    Turner, Roland, ? / ?, philturner@adelphia.net
       PO Box 917, Ranson, WV 25438
(c)    Vallery, Dave add email address: dvallery@pctcnet.net
(c)    Vines, Jack change email and mailing address: jackvines@povn.com
         2041 Spring Valley Rd., Newport, WA 99156