USS Lowndes APA-154

Newsletter

January 1996

BUD KAUTZ CC&BW

U.S.S. LOWNDES - APA 154 REUNION GROUP

NEWSLETTER
January 1996 CONTENTS

Bowman/Richards Biographies

Lowndes Lovelies Raffle Winners

Comments - Eighth Reunion

Deceased - 1995

Seeking Shipmates

Iwo Jima Addendum

Roster - Notify me if any changes

WM. "BUD" KAUTZ

34782 Hiawatha Trail
McHenry, IL 60500
(815)344-6326

In the August 1995 News Letter Leo O'Brien posed the question of
how many boats aboard the Lowndes can, at this date be named and
the crews identified. Jack Hovey, Carmel Fesi, and Merrill Hart were
members of Leo's LCVP. No. 12 LCVP Robert Lemmons - Coxswain, Orris
A. Smith Signalman, Wm. Thomas - MoMM, Bow Hook - ?

GLENN W. FORGAY - San Dimas, CA - I would like to attend all the
reunions, but don't think I can because of health problems. I was
coxswain of LCVP 14 or 15 with Merrill Hart - Signalman, Martin Rezza
- Deck Hand and Harry Ruether - MoMM. All good sailors and men. Harry
was a good handyman sailor.

Is there anyone else able to jog their memories to help Leo out?

We still have a few U.S.S. Lowndes cookbooks
available. All recipes have been submitted
by crew members and their mates. $7.00
postage included. Contact Bud Kautz.

Mike Michalski has a few hats for sale at
a nominal cost of $10.00 each. Prepaid.

CONTRIBUTION - 1996 U.S.S. LOWNDES REUNION GROUP

NAME:

ADDRESS:

CITY, STATE & ZIP;

TELEPHONE:

ENCLOSED IS MY CONTRIBUTION FOR: $ ____ ___DATE:

(Mail to Bud Kautz)

TAPS !

EDWARD BENSIE - Nov. 11, 1926 - Aug. 1995

Ed joined the Navy in 1944 at Johnstown, PA and left the Lowndes in
1946. He was a Pennsylvania coal miner until moving to Ohio where he
worked as a foreman in a machine shop. He is survived by his wife,
Agnes, 2 children and 1 grandchild. Agnes & Ed. would have been married
48 years on Aug. 30th.

CLEMENT M. HOFFMAN - Passed away Feb. 18, 1995. His step-daughter writes
that he loved the Navy more than life itself. Looked forward to the
News Letters and talked about his 'ole' buddies quite frequently. Since
he died I've been trying to go through all of his things, there are
many items from his service days. Thank you for the Iwo Jima booklet.

ROY E. ECHOLS - Feb. 21, 1995 Arnold M. Matzen - May 23, 1995

HAYWOOD S. SMITH - July 26, 1995
LEE PETER DERUGA HARVEY AYLER McGOWAN

NORMAN WESLEY TREANOR

No further information - Condolences have been extended.

MARLENE REZZA SCHADLER - Metaire, LA - I am the daughter of Martin
J. Rezza and want to continue receiving the News Letters and any
information regarding the Lowndes. I have purchased mugs, cookbooks
and raffle tickets. We recently moved from our home of 33 years. In
the process have come across a Small Treasure - a bottle filled with
what looked like dirt that my father had given to me years ago. The
label read "Reads Sands of Iwo Jima - Feb. 19, 1945" If anyone remembers
my father I would love to hear from them.

1/96-3

BIOGRAPHIES

DONALD WILLIAM BOWMAN

Donald was born on February 13, 1919 in Horton, Kansas. His parents
were William Franklin and Mabel Bowman. They lived in St. Joe, Missouri
for four years before returning to western Kansas then moved to Pueblo,
Colorado. He was 26 years old when he was KIA on Iwo Jima and held
the rate as a Pharmacist First Class at that time. He was a member
of the U.S.S. Lowndes Beach Party that hit the beach on the second
day. Went to grade school in Horton, Kansas, Healy Middle School in
Healy, Kansas and Central High in Pueblo, Colorado. He was also a
very good whistler and had a tryout on radio one time for a contest.
His favorite song was "Heartache". He was living in California and
ran a boutique shop in Hollywood. He always hoped that some day he
would become a doctor. Don used to love ice skating and often went
horseback riding with his sister (Dorothy Haling) and shoot snakes
in Kansas. Don was also interested in sport cars. Bill Haling (nephew)
remembers Don coming home on leave to Pueblo in uniform. Mrs. Haling
remembered that Don believed that if he couldn't say anything good
about a person he just wouldn't say anything and she never heard
anything to the contrary.

The above information supplied by Mrs. Dorothy Haling and Bill Haling.

Note:

As a member of the Beach Party I had the privilege of assisting him
in administering aid to the wounded and seeing that he showed no fear
in performing his duties while under enemy fire.

Bud Kautz

*****************************************************

NORMAN ROBERT RICHARDS

Norman was born on July 22, 1925 in Syracuse, Nebraska. He enlisted
in the Navy August 1943 and entered the service October 8, 1943,
he was only 18 years old when he left for his duty to his country.
Word of his death came on March 10, 1945, word was slow then. Norman
couldn't tell anyone where he was or going when he left the United
States. He graduated from Syracuse Nebraska High School in May 1943.
Had a paper route and also worked on a farm during the summer. Wallace
(Norman's brother) relates a tale of the day when the 3 Richards
brothers and neighborhood friends got into someone's watermelon patch.
They tried to tie the watermelons on to the mules they were riding,
with the leather halter straps. Didn't get out of the patch with
a single watermelon, as there was no way to tie up 2 melons and try
to balance them across the back of the mule. Many melons were broken
in the attempt. (Don't think our parents ever knew about this Sunday
afternoon affair).

The above information supplied by Mrs. Florence Richards and Wallace
Richards.

NOTE: Donald & Norman were killed in action while performing their
duties during the Iwo Jima campaign. A memorial plaque has been
dedicated and placed in the Admiral Nimitz Museum in Fredericksburg,
Texas.

1/96-4

MRS. FLORENCE RICHARDS - Nebraska City, NE

So nice to meet Fred Brinkman and Bud in
person. Everyone was so nice to us. When we
left San Antonio we stopped in Burnet, Texas
to Attend church. Stayed over night in Sherman,
Texas and arrived home in Nebraska City at
8:30 PM Monday night, safe and sound. Wallace
and Jackie stayed all night and left for
Columbus Tuesday about noon. Weather was perfect
all the while, so much to see and glad I was
able to go to the reunion, see all the sights.
Mike Michalski was so good to us. I was so
stiff after riding. Thanks again. Keep sending
the News Letters.

WALLACE & JACKIE RICHARDS

Columbus, NE

Don' t know how to say thank you LOUD ENOUGH
for all of you at the reunion to hear how much
we enjoyed our trip and stay with you. Mom
just couldn't get over how nice all of you
treated us. A special thank you to Mike and
Jerry Michalski, Fred and Roberta Brinkman
and Bud and Jean. We are sorry that we didn't
go into San Antonio at the very first. We just
didn't know how mom could handle a trip such
as this. As it ended up, we participated in
almost all activities anyway. I feel we made
Mike a lot of extra work trying to accommodate
us. Thanks again to all of you and "The Crew"
for a wonderful time and memories we will not
forget. God bless you all.

VIRGINIA DUNCAN

Nebraska City, NE - A big,
thank you for all the News Letters that have
been sent to us. Then for your invitation to
join the USS Lowndes group in Texas. It was
a memorable time as we met there at the Admiral
Nimitz Museum to honor my brother (Norman
Richards) and the two other men. I immensely
enjoyed the trip and the tour to the LBJ ranch.
It was a beautiful place. Having lived on a
farm all but a few months of my married life
I can see why President Johnson enjoyed the
peace and serenity of the ranch. Some of the
men came and told me how they respected Norman
for his manner of life. One said Norman had
given him a New Testament, another said he
had dressed up for Norman. Fred Brinkman told
how he had gone to church with Norman instead
of to a place no Mother's son should go. Thank
you again for the opportunity to be with all
the wonderful people of the USS Lowndes. My
parents put Norman in charge of me when we
went to Drum & Bugle Corps, practice and were
out after dark.

Richards
attend
WWII
reunion

Florence Richards, her daughter
Virginia Duncan of Nebraska City,
and son Wallace and his wife of
Columbus went to Fredericksburg,
Texas, to the 50th reunion of
U.S.S. Lowndes. APA 154
shipmates, who survived the Battle
of Iwo Jima of W.W.II.

Only two boys lost their lives
on this ship — Norman Richard,
HA first class and Donald Bowman
of Colorado.

Norman was the son of Florence
and the late Stanley Richards. He
helped rescue wounded and was
killed the second day of the
invasion.

At the 50th reunion a plaque was
dedicated and unveiled in honor of
their son.

The reunion was for four days
and during that time they visited the
LBJ Ranch, a day to San Antonio,
Texas, a boat ride and trolley ride,
and visited the Alamo.

There was a banquet and a
program the last day. About 40
men and their wives were in
attendance. Those who knew
Norman spent time visiting with
his mother.

One gentleman, Fred Brinkman,
who has kept in touch with
Norman's mother with letters and
visits for 50 years was also in
attendance.

The above article
appeared in a local
Nebraska City. NE
newspaper.

SALLY CARY - _Dalton, PA - I really enjoyed the reunion this year.
Everything was fantastic. Our bus drivers were great and really
informative. Also the other guides. My sister Becky Esola said she
enjoyed herself and couldn't get over how everyone got along so well
together. Said we were like one big happy family. I enjoyed helping
out as did Becky. She said it was like being part of the Lowndes
group. It took me a few days to get back to normal. I'm glad that
dates for the next year's reunion have been set. It gives me more
time to do another afghan.

The winners of the Lowndes Lovelies raffle are as follows:

* 1st. prize Afghan Don & Joan Macpherson
2nd. prize $150.00 Bud & Jean Kautz
3rd. prize $ 50.00 John &. Lebby Dyer
Additional prizes:
** Flag picture Jack & Evelyn Hovey
** Navy watch Charles Perdue
Navy clock Walt & Jackie Umbarger
Iwo Jima clock Earl Robertson
*** Special coin Don & Joan Macpherson

**** Extended stay in Myrtle Beach - Clark Martin

* Sally Cary's handiwork
** Donated by Mike Michalski
**** Compliments of Fred Brinkman

** ATTENDEES AT 1995 REUNION IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS **

Fred & Roberta Brinkman
Sally Cary & Becky Esola
Howard & Lois Chappell
James Chilcote & Margaret McGrody
Pete & Ercila Cisneros
James Davenport
Orbie & Murrah Dickson
Stan Dunn
Jonn & Lebby Dyer
Joe & Betty Eriandson
Cannel J.F. & Evelyn Fesi
James & Margaret Frieden
Richard & Blanche Garza
Bill & Judy Haling
Alonzo & Oniece Hodgson
Jack & Evelyn Hovey
Dick Jones & Roseanna Pohl

John & Julia Jurica
Bud & Jean Kautz
David & Joanne Long
Don & Shirley Lorenzi
Don & Joan Macpherson
Clark Martin
Edwin McKellar & Lora Moore
Mike & Jerry Michalski
Renee Michalski
Francis & Frances Miller
Don & Bormie Moore
Roland & Becky Moore
Eileen Murray
Nick & Joyce Natysyn
Jack Nicholson & Helen Butler
Leo & Margaret O'Brien
Charles & Joyce Perdue
Warren & Albena Proctor
Arthur & Marjorie Rauseo
Mrs. Florence Richards
Wally & Jackie Richards
Earl & Frances Robertson
Joel & Mary Rodriquez
James & Ina Ross
Clifford & Mary Schaffer
Dallas & Lorene Stratton
Bill & Amelia Taylor
George & Glenda Tuppan
Walt & Jackie Umbarger
Dan Wisdon
June Zinkgraf & Vicky Duck

STATES REPRESENTED AT USS LOWNDES REUNION IN SAN ANTONIO

California
Colorado
Florida
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Louisiana
Massachusetts
Minnesota
Missouri
New York
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Texas
Utah
Virginia

Guess which state had the most shipmates in attendance? TEXAS (10)

CLIFF & MARY SCHAFFER - Limeport, PA - We want to thank Mike, Jerry
and Renee Michalski for the wonderful job they did in making
arrangements for the USS Lowndes reunion in San Antonio, Texas.

Everything went along very smoothly. We enjoyed the tours of the
city and LBJ's ranch. The boat ride through the city was interesting,
The dedication of the plaque honoring Donald Bowman and Norman
Richards was touching and our thanks to the USS Lowndes shipmates
for allowing us to dedicate a plaque in honor of John Natysyn, Mary's
brother. We stayed in San Antonio for a couple of more days and took
in the River Walk in the evening, it looked real nice all lit up.
Also had dinner in the revolving dining room atop the Tower of the
Americas. The view was fantastic as were the steaks we had.

GEORGE & GLENDA TUPPAN - LaHabra Heights, CA - Mike, Jerry and Renee
did show us Texas hospitality. We wish to thank them for the wonderful
hosting of our seventh annual reunion in San Antonio. Their planning
of the two days of sight seeing shows that a lot of thought was given
to these events. This I believe is the first time a whole family,
father, mother and daughter all worked together to make our stay
one to remember. A special thanks to Jerry for getting us on the
river ride after missing the first one. She saw that all of us had
good time and were on time. Going home on the plane a thought came
to me and I started thinking back. Everyone who had hosted previous
reunions was at our seventh reunion. Maybe this is some kind of a
record, at least for ours. The Iwo Jima stamp pin was very much
appreciated, it was one of the many highlights we enjoyed. It was
wonderful that families of our shipmates could attend, especially
a mother of 95 seeing her son honored.

CARMEL & EVELYN FES I - Houma, LA - We had a great time at the reunion.
It was so good to see all the USS Lowndes shipmates. Mike, Jerry and
Renee Michalski: Thanks for your all-out efforts. You did a great
job and made the reunion a big hit. We appreciated the special effort
you made for Evelyn's diet. Thank you again for a wonderful time.
Jack and Evelyn Hovey: Thanks for all the help at the airport with
our luggage after our 3:00 PM flight on Continental was canceled and
we were put on a 5:00 PM flight on Southwest. We arrived in New Orleans
at 7:10 PM and pulled into Houma about 9:00 PM. We think about how
we enjoyed being with all of the crew members that the problem we
had at the airport can easily be forgotten. This was a great reunion.
God willing, we will meet again at Myrtle Beach in 1996.

JIM & MAGGIE FRIEDEN - Silver Lake, IN - Want to thank you Mike,
Jerry for all you did for the ship's reunion. We sure enjoyed
everything and could tell that you put a lot of work into it. You
have a very gracious and sweet daughter and would have liked to visit
with her more, but she was so busy keeping things organized. We should
have stayed in San Antonio Sunday, got to the airport and our plane
was to leave at 5:41 PM and the 3:00 PM plane had mechanical problems,
by the time they got all of those people taken care of we had to
get to Indianapolis via Houston, but that plane left before we got
there. We were put up at a Holiday Inn, given supper and breakfast.
Didn't get home to Silver Lake until almost 4:00 PM. But we would
do it all over again. Thanks again! Guess everyone got home okay.
Hope our paths cross again.

DONALD LORENZI - Des Plaines, IL - I'd like to put together a video
tape covering all our reunions. Jim Frieden sent me what he has
(Duluth, MN, Fort Wayne, IN and Harrisburg, PA). I'll put his together
with mine (San Antonio, TX) and what other videos I can get, hopefully
(St. Louis, MO and Boston, MA) and make the combined tape available
to the crew at our next reunion. I will make copies and return the
originals. Shirley and I Really enjoyed San Antonio - looking forward
to Myrtle Beach.

Note: This can be a worthwhile venture Don is willing to undertake.
Let's help him in this endeavor.

FRANCIS MILLER - Kearns, UT - First of all Frances and I really
enjoyed the reunion in San Antonio, we met the nicest people to be
with. Received the cook book and the USS Lowndes history booklet.
Thank you, Jean, for going the extra mile and getting the beef jerky
at the mall for Frances. Received photos from the San Antonio reunion
and we look a year older than we did in San Diego. Looked up Harley
Workman in Salt Lake City and gave him hell for not making the
reunion. Had a nice visit with him. Found out that he lived on the
next street over from where we lived. Never knew that we were
shipmates on the Lowndes until we saw our names and addresses on
the roster list. Small world. The Texas reunion was great. Connie,
Jerry and their daughter did a wonderful job. We honestly can not
say which part of the reunion we enjoyed the most because it was
all so good. Enjoyed the S.O.S. so much at the reunion that Frances
makes it for breakfast at home. The name tags with home towns on
them helped identify our shipmates. On the flight home on Delta
airline we were ready to take off when the pilot announced that the
flight to Salt Lake City was on hold due to a fire in the control
tower at S.L.C. We sat on the plane in Texas for an hour 'till they
cleared us for take off. Guess S.L.C. is a hot town. Looking forward
to seeing all next year.

LEO O'BRIEN - Maiden, MA - It was a nice reunion and always a pleasure
to see old friends again. Hope to see them in Myrtle Beach in 1996.

JOHN & LEBBY DYER - Jupiter, FL - Want to thank Mike and Jerry for

such a nice time in Texas. It was great. Were in Indiana for only
6 days before we started south. Stayed in the Smoky Mountains for
4 days. We are looking forward to next year in Myrtle Beach. Maybe
we will have a chance to see a little more of each other.

JACK B. HOVEY - Pasadena, CA - Things have finally shaped up, it's
been hectic ever since we got home from the reunion. Want to give
my thanks and a medal of commendation to the wonderful host and
hostess, Mike and Jerry. Evelyn and myself enjoyed every minute of
each day we were in San Antonio. We flew coach to Texas, but it was
first class from the time we landed until we took off for California.
To say thank you to the Michalski's doesn't seem enough, but I'm
sure they will understand how we feel. And how do you say thank you
to Sally Cary? Found some pictures in my camera when I got home.
There's some very nice people in them that we met in San Antonio.
I have so many letters to write to our shipmates to thank them for
being in Texas.

1/96-8

JACK HOVEY (Cont'd) Received my most welcomed hand painted signal
flag prize. It was so kind of you wonderful friends to do this for
me and I sincerely appreciate it. It arrived in perfect shape. Our
stay in Texas will always stay in a special place in our hearts
forever. Mike, your itinerary was second to nothing we have ever been
involved in, your continued Go, Go, Go was outstanding. Evelyn and
myself feel the accommodations and continental breakfast every morning
was excellent, the River Walk, Imax, LBJ ranch, farmer's market
excursions were top drawer. The Nimitz Museum and the relatives of
our two outstanding shipmates was both sad and inspiring. Thank you
dear people for a wonderful reunion and I pray we are all together
in South Carolina.

JAMES J. BORN - Agoura Hills, CA - I am sorry we couldn't make it
to the reunion this time. We had planned to go to San Antonio for
my Submarine Division reunion (Sept. 18th thru 22nd) and stay over
until the Lowndes reunion but things just didn't work out that way.
Too many grandchildren (4) born this year. Then we got word that our
daughter wanted to get married on our 51st anniversary (July 1st).
She felt that day would also be lucky for her. Plus - our grand
daughter informed us that she is getting married on October 8th. Please
let us know when and where the next reunion will be.

ALAN S. RUSSELL - 4 Napier Rd. Andover, MA 01810 - My dad was assigned
to J. Shelton Scales' unit, the 3rd battalion of the 23rd Marines.
He was aboard the Lowndes from Dec. 31, 1944 until the landing on
Iwo. Dad died in 1991 and I have recently begun to look into his
experiences on Iwo Jima. I would very much like to hear from any crew
members who may have known my dad and also what it was like being
aboard ship heading into battle. Please write or call if you can.
(508)470-4712.

CARMEL J. F. FES I - Houma, LA - Something that happened to me on the
Lowndes, can't remember if it was at Okinawa or Saipan. I had to board
the ship from an L.C.V.P. The ship was at anchor but the sea was rough.
There was a chain ladder hanging over the side about at No. 4 hatch
I think. Hovey was running the boat, I caught the ladder and started
climbing up and got up high enough to catch the rail of the ship,
what I didn't know was my right index finger was under the chain of
the ladder when a big swell came up and the ladder got hung on a cleat
on the boat and when the boat came down it broke the chain ladder
one step below the one I was on. I pulled myself over the rail and
onto the deck, looked at my finger and both ends of the broken bone
with a little bit of flesh holding it on. I carried tl-fis finger and
hand in my left hand and went to sick bay but couldn't find anyone
there, it was evening chow. I went to the officers wardroom and said
I hurt my finger, two of the doctors jumped up and carried me to sick
bay. Heard one of the doctors say, "I think we should finish cutting
it off". I thought they were talking about my shirt sleeve but it
was my finger they were talking about. I had a shot of morphine, after
that I didn't care if they cut my head off. They managed to save my
finger but as expected it is still stiff in the middle joint.

USS Cole DD-155

USS Hovey DMS-11 7 DD2-08

USS Murray DD/DDE-576

Why are products transported by car called a "shipment" and products transported by ship called "cargo"?

Thanks to Stan Dunn, he came through as always to grace our hospitality
room with colorful flowers. You're a good kid, Stan.

Let it be known that there were enough contributors to the
Bowman/Richards Memorial fund to cover all expenses incurred in the
dedication of the plaque and the Bowman/Richards family to attend the
dedication and reunion. At the Harrisburg, PA reunion a motion was
proffered and accepted that $500.00 from the general fund would be
available for this project. I'm happy to report that it was not
necessary to take advantage of this money.

Would also extend a special thanks to several anonymous benefactors
who unselfishly contributed to our successful reunion in San Antonio.
They have requested to remain unheralded and we will honor that request.
As difficult as it may be to do so.

Sure glad that the U.S.S. Lowndes 1996 reunion will be held in South
Carolina and not at the South Pole where the ice is 1^ miles thick
and the weather there isn't so hot either.

Regarding the reunion at Myrtle Beach any suggestions can be forwarded
to Fred & Roberta Brinkman. Sure they will appreciate 'em. There is
a theater near the hotel, Cane Patch Golf Course (short 9 holer) is
three blocks away. Jean is not an avid golfer but did enjoy playing
it. Opry House, Dixie Stampede (not familiar with it but Fred will
supply details of the activities and sights to tour.

While on the subject of activities, was anyone aware that Mary Schaffer
has the distinction of being a terrific "One Arm Player" (slots)? Our
very reliable snitch has so informed us.

JACK W. LAIRD - Valparaiso, IN - I talked to Bill Davis a couple of
times recently. Marilyn and I took a motor home trip to Florida last
February to visit two brothers. While in Florida we contacted Gordon
Buck in Palm Springs. He and his wife met us in Okeechobee and we had
a very enjoyable visit. After 50 years we both agreed that we hadn't
changed a lot!! After we got home, we called Bill Davis and his wife.
They came over for coffee and. We had a very good time visiting. Bill
has many photos that we enjoyed. We had one problem though. Bill is
still trying to figure out how Peg and I got to be as old as we are
and we don't like to fish. We missed the San Antonio reunion - medical
matters (all non-"life threatening")

We have another request for information from Kathy Krieg RR 1, Box
131B - Colesburg, IA 52035. My father and I attended the 50th
Anniversary Tour of Iwo Jima and met Retired Col. Shelton Scales. My
father, Elmer Rome, served with the 133rd SeaBees Battalion and was
on the U.S.S. Lowndes - APA 154. He lost all of his photos, etc. he
had from the war in a fire several years ago. Shelton thought that
possibly crew members of the ship could send me some information
regarding the reunion group. Would like to pass this information to
two of his buddies that served with him.

1/96-10

At the business during the USS Lowndes reunion in San Antonio it was
determined that the eighth Annual Reunion be held in Myrtle Beach,
South Carolina on October 17th through 20th, 1996. Fred and Roberta
Brinkman will host this get together. The Myrtle Beach Martinique Hotel
will be the headquarters for this event. The room rate will be $57.00
plus tax. All the rooms and efficiency units are oceanfront. Final
details will be included in future News Letters as they become
available. Mark your calendars now.

NOW HEAR THIS!

We are on the lookout for some energetic souls among our shipmates to consider hosting
the Ninth Reunion in 1997. Location of their choice.

FRED & ROBERTA BRINKMAN - Columbia, SC - We enjoyed attending the USS Lowndes Reunion
at San Antonio and the ceremony at Fredericksburg in memory of the 50th Anniversary
of the battle of Iwo Jima. Congratulations to Mike, Jerry and Renee for an outstanding
and memorable USS Lowndes reunion. We appreciated the fine hospitality as well as
the accommodations, functions, activities and tours of the interesting sites of the
area you arranged to make this a most successful Reunion. Was pleased that Mrs.
Florence Richards and her family members as well as Bill Haling and his wife could
participate in the ceremony at Fredericksburg and other reunion activities in San
Antonio.

THE SEVENTH ANNUAL U.S.S. LOWNDES APA-154 REUNION

The weather in San Antonio and Fredericksburg, Texas was beautiful cool and crisp
- but just warm enough to be enjoyable. Most everything went on schedule as planned,
for all the activities - although some of the participants may have liked to have
slept in a little later. When it came time for the banquet - the Mexican theme with
the festive table cloths of different colors and a multi colored pinata perched on
a scrape in the middle of each table made a statement as to the area we were in.
Basically, the Mexican people are happy and like to celebrate. However, the chicken
and beef fajitas that the caterer served left a lot to be desired - besides, most
of the dinner was barely warm - which was a big disappointment. We were striving
to offer a taste of things that a lot of you may not have tried. We're sorry it didn't
work! All I can say now is - if you have the opportunity to try fajitas again - try
'em! By the way - our contact that helped us make arrangements did have a super
caterer recommended that we were going to use for our banquet - but at one of the
meetings with the staff of the hotel informed me that I had to use the caterer that
was approved by their organization. Other than this one occasion the Inn worked with
me on all my requests and were very co-operative. We hope you found them that way
too. My other disappointment was that time just didn't permit me to visit with all
of you, as I would have liked to. In fact, there were some of you I never met. So

- if you'll give me a second chance - I have a solution. Meet me in Myrtle Beach,
SC next October at the reunion. We - Jerry, Renee and myself really appreciated all
the great thank you cards and comments. Gratefully yours.

Mike Michalski

BILL & AMELIA TAYLOR - Elizabethtown, PA - We enjoyed the reunion very
much. Mike and Jerry did a great job in getting it all together. Our
trip home from Texas was fine in every way.

(No Bill, I don't see Pochahontas on Hiawatha Trail)

1-96-11

HOWARD CHAPPELL - Wampum, PA & Plant City, FL - Sorry I didn't write
sooner. Lois and I have been sick ever since coming home from San
Antonio. We were home for about a week when our troubles started. I
had to go into the hospital for surgery on my right leg, this is 3rd
operation for a clogged artery on this leg. Operation went fine but
awful slow healing up. Had to cut though lots of scar tissue. Everything
appears OK now, but it's a slow process getting back into shape. Deer
season is open in Pennsylvania, but I'm not up to hunting as yet. Tried
for a few hours but just couldn't do it. Can't ever remember missing
deer hunting since leaving the service. Lois has been having problems
with her back. doctors say she has spinal syndrome and not much they
can do for it. She goes for therapy 3 times a week, feels a little
better. We had a great time in Texas even though we were hurting, just
wish we could have stayed longer. Really enjoyed it. Also appreciated
the hospitality of Mike, Jerry & daughter. Lord willing, we're going
to Myrtle Beach for a full week next October. Thanks, Bud, for the
photographs. Notice how photogenic the Pennsylvania gang is? Yes Howard
I know what a great wife I have.

WALT UMBARGER - Greenwood, IN & Naples, FL - Thanks for the pictures.
The dates we are in Florida this year, October 15th thru April ?? We
flew home for the holidays. Sure had a nice time in San Antonio. One
of the best, we think, except for the banquet dinner. Our intentions
for Myrtle Beach, continue to Florida after the reunion. Looks great.

I have to stick my two cents in regarding the reunion in San Antonio.
Jean and I want to compliment Mike, Jerry & Renee in the very efficient
way that all the activities were handled for the Lowndes motley crew.
I'm sure I can vouch for all who attended our seventh reunion that
it was a great success. The dedication was long overdue and meeting
and talking to the representatives of the Donald Bowman and Norman
Richards families was, indeed a pleasure. Mike sure pulled a big
surprise on me at the Admiral Nimitz museum - he had arranged, without
my knowledge, to have Elmer Childress, a shipmate that I stood watch
with in No. 1 fireroom on the U.S.S. Reid - DD369 (Destroyer) before
boarding the Lowndes. Sure was an added highlight to experience in
Fredericksburg. Thank you Mike. Looking forward to Myrtle Beach. Fred
Brinkman is already hard at work getting it all in order. ^ (\

Had a phone call from Cliff Schaffer yesterday (1/11/96). They had 8 to 10" of snow
on the ground and 30" more fell with expectation of 12 to 14" more on the 12th. Said
all they can do is drink coffee, look out the window and make love.

Received the following notices today:

Searching for family members of all Two Jima (living and deceased) that would
be interested in a National Iwo Family Group. For more information Contact:

Iwo Jima Survivors Association of Texas
(A National Organization)
P. 0. Box 1657
Bowie, Texas 76230

MISSING CREWMEN

We are seeking the
below mentioned
former shipmates of
the USS Lowndes.
Please Forward
addresses or
information to
Bud Kautz.

ADAMS, Sid M.
ALBERS, F. K.
ALBERT, Fremont E.
ALDRIDGE, James
ALEXANDER, John
ANDERSON, James L.
ANGEL, George T.
ANGELL, Jack R.
ANTES, Elwood L.
ANTRIM, C. R.
ARNOLD, Carl D.

BAKER, Thomas F.
BALES, John W.
BALLARD, Alvin C.
BANKS, Robt. 0.
BARBASH, Hyman
BARTON, Marvin B.
BAVELY, Joe J.
BAYLIS, Ralph L.
BELLE, Willie R.
BENSEN, Edward E.
BERGER, Paul
BERNER, Merritt T.
BETENCOURT, A.
BIGGERS, Billy W.
BLAHA, Wm. A.
BLEVINS, Claud T.
BOOTH, Wm. A.
BOWLING, Ellis C.
BRADLEY, James K.
BROCKMAN, Lewis J.
BROMN, Lucian
BROWN, Roy L.
BROWNELL, Sumner I.
BUIS, R.
BULL, Calvin T.
BURGE, Fred T.
BURSICK, Frank A.
BUIS, R.
BYLAND, Carney H.

CALDWELL, Wm. W.
CARREJO, Jose R.
CARROLL, Robt. G.
CAWLEY, John
CEOCHINI, Fred
CERULO, Gene J.
CHADD, H.
CHAPMAN, Rex W.
CHICHESTER, Oliver D.
CHIPMAN, Leroy
CHURCH, Johnnie W.
CLARK, Dick R.
CLEVEN, Erwin 0.
COFFEY, Wendell H.
COLBURN, Wm. E.
COLLIER, Alien L.
CONOVER, Dale
CONVERY, Chas. J.
COPELAND, Wm. 0.
COWAN, Jesse D.

DALT0N, Jack R.
DALTON, Wm. E.
DANSIE, Wallace L.
DAVIS, Henry
DAY, Joseph E.
DEARBORN, Marv. R.
DEL MONICA, Pete P.
DELOS, Reyes G.
DENNIS, Glenn
DINIS, John M.
DOBBYN, Fred W.
DOZEMAN, Clarence
DUNBAR, Robt. D.
DUNBAR, Robt. E.

EARNEST, Albert
EASTER, Derral G.
EASTHAM, Gerald
EDRALIN, Peter
ELLIS, John H.
ELMORE, Clarence E.
ETTINGER, Isadore
EVOLA, Antinini J.

FACINOLI, Bert W.
FALSTEK, Charlie
FARWELL, Lee L.
FEASTER, Jenoi W.
FEIST, Casimer
FERGUS0N, Deljnar B.
FIGLIOLA, Michels
FISHER, Harry J.
FLUD, James W.
FORD, Wm. D.
FORDACK, John F.
FORTIN, Leo L.
FOWLER, Elbert R.
FOY, Robt. K.
FULLER, Dan. P.
FURTH, Donald H.

GARCIA, Alfonse P.
GARLAND, Warren S.
GEORGE, HM. W. Jr.
GILYARD, John G.
GLEASON, Patrick J.
GLENN, Harold R.
GODBY, Thomas D.
G0LDSTEIN, Bernard
GOLDSTEIN, Louis A.
GORDON, Leo K.
GOSSETT Jesse K.
GRAHAM, Wm. E.
GRANSHAM, Robt. T.
GRAVES, J. H.
GRIFFITHS, Hugh L.
GROHS, Neil C.
GUERRY, Martin E.
GUZMAN, Ray E.

HADLOCK, James L.
HALL, Ivan L.
HALL, Nelson D.
HALL, Robt. B. Jr.
HALLER, Clarence J.
HANLEY, Thomas B.
HANSEN, Paul H.
HARE, Albert E.
HARNDEN, Paul S.
HARRIS, Royal D.
HART, Merrill W. „
HATCHER, D. A.
HATTEN, Harold W.
HEMMINGWAY, Ernest
HANAHAN, John H.
HERPICH, George J.
HESTER, James R.
HILL, Alvis A.
HILL, Wm. P.
HINCKLEY, Hyrum N.
HOPE, Gerald H.
HOPKINS, Crockett
HORSELEY, Sam R.
HOTSY, J. Milton
HUDLEY, Thomas B.
HUGHES, D. W.
HUMPHREY, R. A.
HUTTON, Phil. M. F.
HUTZENBILER, Matt. F.
HYDE, S. W.

JAVETTE, Louis F.
JENSEN, Darrel D.
JOHNSON, Ben. F.
JOHNSGN, Damon W.
JOHNSTON, Robt. C.
JOLLY, Frank J.
JOMINS, Dawson
JONES, Fred J.
JONES, Printes B.
JONES, Winston G.
JUDIN, L. A.

KEARS, Herbert S.
KEFAUVER, David F.
KELLY, John B.
KILLIAN Edwin H.
KLADIS, Denny
KNAPTON, James H. Jr.
KOOLHAUS, Simon
KOPIS, Albert J. J.
KORTEGA, Lester W.
KUBILLUS, Vic J.
KUBINA, Joseph A.

LANE, Jack L.
LANGE, Robt. E.
LARSON, Ellsworth E.
LARS0N, Kenneth I.
LA TENDER, Simon A.
LATIMER, Dana A.
LAWSON, Hoyle
LAZENBY, Maurice D.
LEET, Robt. L.
LEMONS, Robt. L.
LEMIRE, Leo J.
LESER, Douglas W.
LEWIS, Thomas 0.
LILLARD, Wm. J.
LINTON, Lewis F.
LLOYD, Harry J.
LOBERG, Ben
LONG, Henry D.
LONG, W. W.
LOTSEY, J. Milton
LOVING, Neil C.
LOY, James H.
LYMAN, John F.

MABEL, Edward
MAC CURRACH, Peter
MAHOOD, Wayne
MAIYER, Peter J.
MALEY, M. H.
MANZANNA, Art. R.
MARCUM, Chas. A.
MARSH, Merwin W.
MARTIN, R. D.
MARTIN, Walt. J.
MARTINEZ, Lizardo M.
MARVIN, Chuck
MASON, Herb. F.
MASSEY, Frank Jr.
MATHEWS, Durwood G.
MATHIS, Wm. T.
McCANN, Donald
McCLELLAN, Floyd L.
McCREARY, Warren H.
McDONALD, Richard P.
McENDREE, David C.
McETTRICK, James G.E.
McFARLAND, Thurman E.
McGINNIS, Hubert L.
McGUIGAN, Harry C.
McMANUS, Lee J.
McNALLY, Thamas
MEEKER, Don P.
MEZZANATTO, Henry M.
MILLER, Carl C.
MILLETTE, Don E.
MOHAN, J. Q.
MOHAN, Byron H.
MORE, Kent
MOORE, Melvin M.
MORRIS, Carrell J.
MORTON, Ellis R. Jr.
MOTSINGER, Robt. R.
MYERS, Edwin B.

NAIL, Roy A.
NATIONS, Robt. R.
NELSON, John S.
NISCO, Wm. L.
NORTON, Wm. H.
NYBERG, Berwyn C.

O'BOYLE, Chas. M.
OBRESTAD, H. L.
0'DONNELL, P. J.
OGLETREE, Archie C.
O'NEILL, John L.
ORTIZ, Ricardo L.
OSBORN, Gayle E.
0SBORN, Harold J.
OSTEEN, Robt. F.
OVER,

PAGE, Wn. Jr.
PAPPAS, V.
PARKER, Cleveland Jr
PATTERSON, J. H.
PATTON, Ernest Jr.
PEASE, Ray G.
PECK, Rollin
PERKS, C. L.
PHILLIPS, Roger M.
PIERCE, James L.
POLAK, Bennie J.
POMMIER, Henry C.
POUPARD
PORTER, D. E.
PRICE, Otto R.
PRUITT, Benny
PULSKAMP, Louis J.

QUINN, Joseph B.

RAINES, Charlie
RAMBO, S. R. Jr.
RANDLEMAN, Ed. E.
REED, Albert V.
REEDTZ, Martin J.
REESE, Garnett
REYNOLDS, Jack B.
RHODES, James B.
RICHARD, Chas. N.
RICKMAN, Lloyd
RIDDLE, Russ. A.
RIEKE, Howard W.
RILEY, Melvin G.
RINGER, Zilpha
RISA, Rosenberg Jr.
RISTAINO, Adolf J.
RITTER, John V. T.
RIZZ0, Vincent T.
ROBINSON, Cleveland
ROBERTSON, Merle
ROBLES, Homer R.
RODGERS, Fred B.
RODGERS, L. B.
ROGERS. Leo P.
ROGERS, Woodrow D.
ROOD, Herbert
ROSEN, Phillip
ROSENBAUM, Geo. W.
R0SENBERGER, Chas. P.
ROSS, Ernest F.
ROSS, J. V.
ROW, Gaylen
RUBEN, R. C.
RUPERT, E. E.
RYAN, Frederick

SALTER, Clarence
SAMPSON, Chas. C.
SANDERS, Wm. T.
SAPP, Frank L.
SAWYER, Harvey L.
SCARPER, Harvey F.
SCEARCE, Geo. B.
SCHAMBURG, J. D.
SCHNEIDER, Chas. T.
SCHWICKER, Lou
SCOTT, F. B.
SCOTT, Willie L.
SHARPLESS, James
SHARPLEY, Irving L.
SHEELOR, Harold E.
SHERMAN, Frank I.
SHERWOOD, Clyde E. E.
SHOEMAKER, Ben L. E.
SHUPE, Wm. L.
SILLIMAN, Robt. B.
SIMOG, J. L. Jr.
SIMMS, Kenneth H.
SIMS, Robt. Sr.
SKINNER, Donald B.
SLIVA, Francis M.
SMITH, Bernard A.
SMITH, Clarence
SMITH, Jerry L.
SMITH, Montie
SMITH, Orris A.
SMITH, Samual M.
SMITH, Vernon E.
SMITH, Wm. E.
SMOTHERS, Edgar R.
SNIDER, Leland (Update: found 11/02)
SOLLEY, Roger E.
SOTO, Ernesto
SOWERBY, Thomas
SPEARMAN, Paul H. Jr.
SPEER, Marvin T.
SPEISER, Richard T.
SPENCER, Jesse W.
SPENCER, Johnlee
STACHELSKI, Alex W.
STAHL. Jerry
STANFORD, Lloyd
STEWART, Archer
STILLERMAN, Jack L.
STONE, John S.
STRAND, Olaf
STRODE, Dale
STRUTTS, Hollis J.
SMAIN, Lester N.
SWAIN, Louis R.
SWIFFORD, Nicolas W.

TAYLOR, Clifton W.
TAYLOR, Joe E.
THIELE, Bernard H.
THODE, Gerhardt J.
THOMAS, Leemon D.
THOMAS, Wm. B. Jr.
THORN, WM.
THORNDYKE, Sam F.
TONGE, Robt. E.
TOURELLE, James A.
TRAXEL, Geo. E.
TWIFORD, Nicholas

UPORSKI, Michael

VANDEBURGH, Milo M.
VAN DRUMMEN, Frank
VAN METER, Frank C.

WAGNER, Homer W.
WALL, Owen C.
WALTER, Freddie
WARREN, Russ. C.
WATKINS, Paul R.
WEBB, Geo. P.
WELKER, Harley M.
WHATLEY, Clarence E.
WHEELER, Geo. E.
WHITE, Winrord R.
WIKENS, Bernard H.
WILCOXSON, Chas. R.
WILLEY, Frank E.
WILLIAMS, Ross
WILLIAMS, Walt P.
WTL9CN, Art. L.
WILSON, E. L.
WISKUS, Clarence H.
WOLF, Harold P.
WOOD, Johnnie J.

YANTZ, Pete J.

ZIOLKOWSKI, Richard

We are seeking the
above mentioned
former shipmates of
the USS Lowndes.
Please Forward
addresses or
information to
Bud Kautz.