- Last Updated on Monday, 01 April 2013 01:13
The March meeting was called to order by CO Bill Hess and after the playing of the Navy Hymn, Rev. Fred Pfeil gave the opening prayer and Philip Appolonia led the group with the pledge to the flag.
At this time, COÂ Hess turned the meeting over to the Flag Ceremony committee and the flag presentation program was performed for the Shipmates. Taking part in the program were committee members Marshall Lignani, George Diehl, Barry Anders, Jack Hoak, new member Patrick Maloy, Noel Sawyer and George Essey. Jim Caldwell is a member but was busy with his Yeoman duties and member Sam Levy was unable to make the meeting.
Application for membership was read from Harry T. Scholer of Orlando FL. Harry served in the Navy (1961 to 1965) and the Merchant Marines (1979 to 2000). Harry was proposed for membership by Lawrence Masci and after reading his application information, he was approved for membership. Welcome Aboard, Harry!!
After a discussion and hand vote, it was approved that the uniform white jackets will not be worn whenever funeral services are held in the funeral home. It was also approved that the final hand salute will be given in a respectful and slow movement to our departed members. Essey also commended the members for their attendance and participation at the funeral service that was recently held for Robert Oates. He reminded the group that the Two-Bell service is available for any deceased Navy, Coast Guard or Merchant Marine veteran, active, reserves and/or retired sailor, and does not have to be a member of the Shipmates. Please inform the funeral director that you wish to have the Two Bell Services conducted and they will get in touch with the Shipmates.
The Veterans council sent a check to the Shipmates for the November 10th Veterans Day parade for the group with the most members in line for the parade. Thank you cards were received from the Schmalbach and Coulter families for the Two Bell services that were conducted for Shipmates Ken Schmalbach and James Coulter.
George Hutchko pointed to the framed picture of the USS Monongahela that is now posted in the Legion Home. Hutchko suggested to possibly book a trip to Washington D.C. to visit the Navy Memorial. etc. He also had a Lone Sailor Sweat Shirt on that is available for purchase at $15 each.
Half the take was won by Jim Doriso. The dismissal prayer was give by Rev. Fred Pfeil and the meeting was adjourned until the next meeting on April 2, 2013. At the April meeting, refreshment s and a social hour will be held after the regular meeting.
