From all of us to each of you, we wish you a Hauʻoli Lā Hānau! John C. BrandesJames F. Caldwell Jr.Harold M. DarceyRaymond E. EngleChristopher C. GainesPaul T. JurcsakRoderick RiessenMichael RodriguezJeffrey M SniderTimothy SparksRichard S TaltavallRobert W. Wasson
This February, we honor Black History Month by proudly recognizing the contributions of African Americans to the submarine force. Throughout history, Black servicemen and women have played a pivotal role in shaping submarine history and advancing progress within the U.S. military. During World War II, the Navy took significant steps to expand opportunities for Black sailors. In 1944, the Navy commissioned the “Golden Thirteen,” its first African American officers, opening the door to greater inclusion in leadership roles. Among the many heroes were the Stewards, Steward’s Mates, Cooks, and Mess Attendants who served aboard the U.S.S. Bowfin (SS-287). By reflecting on these … Continue reading →
Military Times | February 25, 2025 The U.S. Navy ushered in a new commander for one of its two submarine commands, known collectively as “The Silent Service,” according to a Navy release. On Friday, Vice Adm. Richard Seif relieved Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher as commander of Submarine Force Atlantic during a change-of-command ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. Read Story Here.
Volume 79 To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution. 1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our January … Continue reading →
From all of us to each of you, we wish you a Hauʻoli Lā Hānau! Brian P. ArkleRonald R. CoxGerald R. DrummJohn J. Dugan ✝️Kenneth R. Joyner ✝️Peter L. MastersCrichton C. Roberts
Read Full Story Here What’s Inside Presidents Day Holiday Weekend Promotion PSFM in Hawai’i Parent Magazine Exhibit Highlight: USS Parche (SS 384) Submarine Conning Tower Read full Newsletter HERE.
Family and friends gathered today, Friday, January 23, 2026, to celebrate the life of Steve Harold Good, a beloved friend, family member, shipmate, and valued member of the community. The Celebration of Life and Memorial Visitation began at 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at noon at the O‘ahu Cemetery Chapel on Nu‘uanu Avenue. Dozens of loved ones filled the chapel to honor a man remembered for his unwavering kindness, his steady humor, and his deep sense of loyalty to family and country. Stories of Steve’s generosity, mentorship, and laughter wove together a portrait of a life lived fully and selflessly. One of the most touching … Continue reading →
Volume 78 To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution. 1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our January … Continue reading →
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI. What’s InsideTolling the Boats“Broken” Sub MockedU.S. Nuke Completes TestDex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar EventsRussian Sub Damaged Read full newsletter HERE.
On behalf of the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans, we want to wish you and your family Mele Kalikimaka! As we gather together with our families, our friends, and our neighbors to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas, more than any other day of the year, allows us to take a step back from the busyness of our everyday lives to thank God for the blessings he has bestowed upon us, our state, and our nation. Regardless of what else is going on in our lives, we all can be thankful for his ultimate gift, the gift of his … Continue reading →
Stars & Stripes | December 11, 2025 The keel was laid this week for the future USS Barb, the 31st Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, as the Navy continues to transition away from dependence on the Cold War-era Los Angeles-class attack submarines. Under Navy tradition, a woman is named the sponsor of new ships and submarines. Bove is married to Thomas Bove, the grandson of Rear Adm. Eugene “Lucky” Fluckey, who served as commander of the first USS Barb, a highly decorated World War II submarine. Read Full Story.
Volume 77 To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution. 1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our December … Continue reading →
Bowfin / December 10, 2025 A group of Vietnam Veterans will gather once again on the Richards Street side of the Hawai‘i State Capitol by the Korea/Vietnam Memorial on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 2300 (11:00 p.m) together with supportive family and friends. This will be the 31st year for this low-key, un-sponsored event, which is simply about fellowship, remembrance, and honoring those we lost. Usually about 60 to 75 folks attend. While nothing is required of those who come, some bring small contributions. Perhaps a story about a buddy, or just saying his name. There’ll be an opportunity for that. … Continue reading →
Volume 76 To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution. 1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our November … Continue reading →
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI. What’s InsideGeneral Meeting MinutesTolling the BoatsMinneapolis-Saint Paul Sail“I am a Veteran” PoemNew Russian Lada SubDex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar Events“The Silent Front” Poem Read full newsletter HERE.
Stars and Stripes | November 4, 2025 A U.S. Navy fast-attack submarine is undergoing maintenance at an Australian base where a multinational force of nuclear-powered boats may be in position in just over a year, according to the Australian Defence Department. The Virginia-class USS Vermont (SSN 792) docked Oct. 29 at HMAS Stirling, Western Australia, marking a significant advance toward the country’s goal of operating and maintaining nuclear-powered submarines, according to a department news release that day. Read full story.
We’re open! Despite the ongoing federal government shutdown, please know that the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and USS Bowfin submarine at Pearl Harbor remain open to visitors. During the current shutdown, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and its museum partners – Pearl Harbor National Memorial (USS Arizona Memorial), the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum – have jointly agreed to provide private funding to keep all four Pearl Harbor Historic Sites open. The submarine museum at this time will remain open and operate at normal hours during the government shutdown. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to the submarine museum, we look forward to welcoming … Continue reading →
Stars & Stripes | October 10, 2025 The Navy officially has a new “backbone” of its submarine fleet that is bigger, faster, quieter, and has more endurance and firepower than the Vietnam War-era design it passed by in sheer numbers this past summer. Admirals, U.S. senators and other VIPs gathered April 5 at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn. Sailors in dress blue uniform were given the traditional command: “Man our ship and bring her to life.” They ran up the gangplank to formally commission the new Virginia-class attack submarine USS Iowa. Read more Here.
On the 3rd Friday of September each year, we observe POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring and remembering the brave individuals who served in submarines during World War II and were captured as prisoners of war, including those who never made it home. These submariners, driven by a strong sense of duty, faced tremendous challenges – some enduring captivity in the line of service – with all making sacrifices for their country. Read HERE. What’s Inside A Fresh Look at the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum Apply for Dolphin Scholarship Family Ties Sail Aboard USS Bowfin Celebrating USS Tucson’s Birthday Read full Newsletter HERE.
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI. What’s InsideGeneral Meeting MinutesTolling the BoatsAboard a Nuke Boat…Dreadnought Keel LaidNew Kilo-Class BoatDex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar Events Read full newsletter HERE.
“No one stands so tall as when they stoop to help a Child”Abraham Lincoln Each year K4K Week is celebrated around Veterans Day (November 11th). Fortunately, more and more Child Health Care Facilities are reopening their doors to us post-COVID. In addition to other K4K visits made during the year, I encourage USSVI Bases to schedule and make a K4K visit to Kids as close to Veterans Day as possible. This is done to: 1. Take advantage of a period when Child Health Care Facilities are more likely to welcome visits by Veterans. If your base does not have a K4K Program, it is … Continue reading →
Shipmates,REGISTRATION IS OPEN for the USSVI Western Region Roundup scheduled for April 16–19, 2026 at the Sam’s Town Hotel in Las Vegas and hosted by USSVI Base 51. The preparation is well underway, and the committee is looking forward to holding this year’s event at this exciting casino. Registering is easy using our online Registration, Hotel and RV Park Booking and Payment system which makes short work of the process. Your early registration will be a great help as we continue with the planning. Register Online Today https://wrroundup.com/. As always, the goal of the Roundup is to provide a way for … Continue reading →
Military Times | September 2, 2025 The keel for the U.S. Navy’s second Columbia-class submarine was laid during an Aug. 27 ceremony in Kingstown, Rhode Island, marking the beginning of the sub’s construction. The vessel, currently designated SSBN 827, will be known as the Wisconsin, becoming the third in a line of warships that served with distinction in U.S. history. The original Wisconsin was the flagship of the Pacific fleet until 1903, while the second was an Iowa-class battleship that fought in numerous World War II Pacific battles and was resurrected twice to serve in the Korean and Persian Gulf … Continue reading →
Marking the Anniversary of the End of World War II and the Impact of U.S. Submarine Warfare September 2nd marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a moment when the largest global conflict in history came to an end and eventually brought home thousands of American service members after years of brutal combat. September 2nd marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a moment when the largest global conflict in history came to an end and eventually brought home thousands of American service members after years of brutal combat. Throughout World War … Continue reading →
Military Times | August 25, 2025 The U.S. Navy confirmed the 34th chief of naval operations during an assumption of office ceremony Monday, according to a Navy release. Adm. Daryl Caudle, who previously led U.S. Fleet Forces Command for nearly four years, replaced acting CNO Adm. James Kilby at an event at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. Kilby took over for Adm. Lisa Franchetti, whom President Trump dismissed in February without a stated reason. “The Sailor will be front and center in my vision throughout my tenure as CNO — hands down, no exception,” Caudle said during the ceremony, according … Continue reading →
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI. What’s InsideGeneral Meeting MinutesTolling the BoatsNew Twin-Sonar DomeU.S. Unleashes First UUVF-1 Seen Intact Off San DiegoNew USSVI Challenge CoinsNew Batfish Sailor BookDex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar Events Read full newsletter HERE.
In a concerted effort to get more students involved in the local trade industry, over 100 high school students from Honolulu Community College’s Summer CTE Academy visited the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum earlier this month to wrap up their five-week summer program. Read full story HERE. What’s Inside Collections Spotlight: Frank Joseph UngerMake the Most of the Final Days of Summer Read full Newsletter HERE.
Military Times | July 25, 2025 President Donald Trump’s nominee for the next chief of naval operations faced no major opposition during his confirmation hearing Thursday before the Senate Armed Services Committee. Adm. Daryl Caudle, who currently leads U.S. Fleet Forces Command, delivered prepared remarks and answered lawmakers’ questions. In his opening statement, Caudle described the United States at an inflection point. “Our country and its citizens are in the midst of a crucial era, defined by global competition, technological saturation, and unpredictable threats that challenge our American dream,” Caudle told lawmakers. Read full story HERE.
Stars & Stripes | July 23, 2025 The Navy plans to spend up to $250 million to extend and modernize a pier at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor to serve new ballistic missile and attack submarines coming into the fleet in the next decade. Read full story HERE.
SEAPOWER | July 16, 2025 The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Toledo (SSN 769) arrived at its new homeport of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, from its previous homeport of Portsmouth, Virginia, July 12, 2025. The Toledo joined Submarine Squadron 7 as their fourth Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine. “Our crew is excited to finally arrive in Pearl Harbor after completing an important maintenance period in Hampton Roads,” said Cmdr. Dustin Kraemer, commanding officer of the Toledo. “Our crew looks forward to the new chapter for Toledo and the opportunities while operating throughout the Indo-Pacific.” Capt. Corey Poorman, commander, Submarine Squadron 7, … Continue reading →
TWZ | July 15, 2025 The USS Connecticut, one of the U.S. Navy’s prized Seawolf class nuclear attack submarines, is set to finally return to service late next year. The Navy previously indicated it could rejoin the fleet this fall. Connecticut is currently at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Washington State for repairs and other work after suffering major damage, particularly to its bow, from a collision with an underwater seamount in the South China Sea in 2021. Read full story HERE.
Bowfin News | July 12, 2025 The Los Angeles-class Flight III 688i (Improved) attack submarine USS Toledo (SSN 769) made a significant entrance into its new homeport at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, today. This marks a new chapter for the storied vessel, which recently completed an extensive engineered overhaul and modernization, ensuring its continued operational relevance in the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet. The 688i brings quieter operation, advanced sonar, and the ability to operate under ice, making it one of the most versatile submarines in the U.S. Navy. These upgrades ensure the Toledo can conduct a wide range of missions, from … Continue reading →
On Friday, July 4, 2025, members of the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base proudly joined the 76th Annual Kailua Independence Day Parade, upholding a beloved tradition that continues to unite generations along Kainalu Drive. For over seven decades, the Kailua Independence Day Parade has been a vibrant celebration of unity, patriotism, and community spirit. Since 1970, Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base submarine veterans have been honored participants, symbolizing dedication, service, and the enduring relationship between the military and the local community. This year’s theme, “Waves of Aloha,” beautifully embodies the ever-present spirit of kindness, unity, and welcome that defines Kailua. Just as … Continue reading →
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI. What’s InsideGeneral Meeting MinutesTolling the BoatsNew Chinese SubUSS Iowa CommissionedFishermen Cath Drones“For Those Who Dived”Dex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar EventsE-Board Meeting MinutesNew Gen.Dyn./EB ContractBreaking News: Brick ProjectRed October in Seal Beach Read full newsletter HERE.
Starting last month as the new executive director of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Andrew “Homer” Ring acknowledges the legacy of the USS Bowfin submarine and the brave men and women that she honors. Read full story HERE. What’s Inside Honoring King Kamehameha Read full Newsletter HERE.
The Origins of Flag Day Flag Day traces its roots to June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress adopted the resolution that “the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation”. However, the formal observance of Flag Day as a national holiday took more than a century to develop. The modern Flag Day celebration began with the dedicated efforts of Bernard J. Cigrand, a 19-year-old schoolteacher in Waubeka, Wisconsin. On June 14, 1885, Cigrand placed a small American flag in … Continue reading →
Bowfin | May 26, 2025 On Memorial Day Monday May 26, 2025 at 1100 hours, dozens of Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans, submarine veteran wives and widows, active and retired military members, and friends of the Submarine Force participated in the annual Memorial Day commemoration at USS Parche and Submarine Memorial Park on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (formerly known as Submarine Base Pearl Harbor.) The U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II assigned a submarine lost during the war to each state of our great nation as their state submarine. The USS Growler (SS-215) was designated as the State Submarine of Hawaii. After Growler’s fourth war … Continue reading →
Established in 2011, the Stanley K. Nicholls Award is awarded to the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base member who, by his personal individual efforts and participation during the preceding years contributed the most to the advancement and embodiment of the USSVI Creed and Agenda, and by his dedicated service and support to the Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base and his fellow Submarine Veterans exemplifies the meaning and spirit of the word, “Shipmate.” Send your nomination to Secretary Brett Kulbis bkulbis.bowfin@use.startmail.com or complete our online nomination form HERE NLT July 15, 2025.
June 6, 2025 On June 6th, 1944 Allied soldiers, in one of the most pivotal battles of World War II, invaded the French coastline in order to propel German soldiers out of Western Europe and lead the way for victory against the tyrants of that era. Overlord was the largest air, land, and sea operation undertaken before or since June 6, 1944. The landing included over 5,000 ships, 11,000 airplanes, and over 150,000 service men. After years of meticulous planning and seemingly endless training, for the Allied Forces, it all came down to this: The boat ramp goes down, then … Continue reading →
Smallwood Hall On 15 April 1987, Submarine Base Pearl Harbor reopened a newly renovated 17-story Bachelor Enlisted Quarters capable of housing 516 personnel. This building was dedicated on 26 February 1988 in the memory of MM3 (SS) James E. Smallwood for the sacrifice of his life while performing his duties in the service of his country. MM3(SS) James Smallwood was the duty auxiliaryman on USS Sargo in 1960 and was taking aboard oxygen from a pierside truck/trailer. The connection was in the stern room with the manifold behind the watertight door in the forward port corner of the room. Although … Continue reading →
Ahoy, from the from the Dominic “Joe” Negri clubhouse, home of the only brick and mortar building owned by USSVI. The Executive Board, and I send our well wishes to all U.S. Submarine Veterans and hope you have a fantastic month of June wherever you drop anchor. Some very significant events happened in the month of June for the U.S. Submarine service and with Boat Notes. Read Boat Notes HERE. Boat Notes Archive
The Periscope is a monthly publication of the Los Angeles-Pasadena Base of USSVI. What’s InsideGeneral Meeting MinutesTolling the BoatsNew Block V Virginia ClassSubmarine Drills in PacificNew North Korean Nuke SubDex Armstrong Chapter News Calendar EventsE-Board Meeting MinutesGen’l Dynamics Contract ModLate-Breaking News…Memorial Day Ceremony Read full newsletter HERE.
Museum Executive Director Chuck Merkel Wraps Up Nine Years Heading the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum The Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Association’s annual meeting every May 1 commemorates the commissioning of the USS Bowfin submarine into service. This year’s meeting held extra special meaning as the evening served as a farewell to Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (PFSM) executive director Charles “Chuck” Merkel, his last day leading the organization. Read full story HERE. What’s Inside Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day Make the Most of Summer Break with a Visit to the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum! Read full Newsletter HERE.
Bowfin News | May 23, 2025 As a Navy veteran living in Hawai‘i, Memorial Day carries a profound significance for me—far beyond backyard barbecues or the unofficial start of summer. Here in the islands, reminders of sacrifice are everywhere, from the solemn USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor to the rows of headstones at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Each year, ceremonies at these sites and others bring together Gold Star families, veterans, and the community to honor those who gave their lives in service, making the meaning of this day deeply personal and ever-present. Read Full Story … Continue reading →
USNI News | May 22, 2025 Reactors for Columbia, Virginia Subs ‘In Progress’, Say Navy Nuclear Officials John Grady May 22, 2025 5:04 PM The naval reactors program for the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines and updated Virginia-class attack boat are “in progress,” the senior civilian overlooking these programs in the Department of Energy told the Senate Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee this week. James McConnell, acting principal deputy administrator at National Nuclear Security Administration, wrote in prepared testimony, “Naval Reactors is advancing naval nuclear propulsion capabilities to keep the U.S. Navy on the cutting edge of warfighting capability, maintaining the assured … Continue reading →
Bowfin News | May 2025 The USS Scorpion (SSN-589) was a Skipjack-class nuclear-powered submarine that sank in 1968. The circumstances surrounding its loss remain mysterious and have been the subject of various theories and investigations. The submarine was declared missing on May 27, 1968, after failing to return to its homeport in Norfolk, Virginia. The U.S. Navy had lost contact with the Scorpion on May 21, 1968, and by the night of May 22, 1968, there was significant concern about its status. The Navy waited until May 27 to officially declare the submarine missing, but by that time, the Sound … Continue reading →
Breaking Defense | May 21, 2025 The “greatest risk” for the Navy’s planned fiscal 2034 delivery of the nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile Nuclear (SLCM-N) is integrating it onboard Virginia-class submarines that were never designed to carry a nuclear weapon, one of the Navy’s top officers in charge of overseeing nuclear weapons programs said. After establishing a program office for the SLCM-N last year, the Navy is just starting to “hone in” on technical concepts for integrating the at times controversial weapon with the Virginia-class, as well as ironing out the operational questions involved with adding a new mission for the sailors onboard, … Continue reading →
By Nelson Greer former EN1(SS) Maybe we were doing an anti-submarine warfare exercise with some ancient black-smoke-belching destroyer on that day in 1963. Or perhaps we were performing precision periscope practice by peering at a panoply of people surfing and sunning on the South Shore of Oahu at Sandy Beach. The men standing watch in the Forward Engine Room of the USS Remora (SS 487) had no periscope to peep through nor sonar to keep an ear on things. No rumbling diesel engines disturbed their peace as the boat was running submerged on the batteries. It was an easy engine … Continue reading →
Celebrating Armed Forces Day from a submariner’s perspective is a meaningful recognition of the unique and often unseen contributions of the submarine force within the U.S. Armed Forces. Armed Forces Day, observed annually on the third Saturday in May, honors all active duty, Guard, and Reserve members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard who defend the nation’s freedoms at home and abroad. From a submariner’s viewpoint, this day is a time to reflect on the silent, yet critical, role submarines play in national defense. Submariners operate in challenging, confined environments beneath the ocean … Continue reading →
Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base 