Post Reunion Notes from our
"Departing Fearless Leader"
With a formal Association now in place, my task of shepherding these
events over the past four or so years is finished. The torch has been passed to your newly-formed Benjamin Stoddert
Association elected officers, led by Chairman Lou Turilli, to take it to a higher level. As our co-webmaster with wife,
Carole Bryan, Lou and Carole have been on board almost from the beginning so the transition should be a smooth one.
My thanks also to the others who provided support during the early times: Bert Cassels, plankowner ASW Officer,
who assumed the role of Wardroom Liaison, identifying and contacting past members of Stoddert's Wardroom; Art and Janie
Hansen, our dynamic newsletter duo; Dave Behrend, Ship's Historian, These folks have devoted time and
personal expense to carry out their tasks. And to my lovely lady, Carmen, thanks for putting up with me (and this
project). To Terry McManuels and his aptly-named MRTR organization--All three past reunions certainly have been
Military Reunions To Remember. Last, but not least, thanks to each and everyone who has supported these festivities
through attendance, monetary contributions, etc. Needless to say, without you and your support, we wouldn't
exist. Lou, USS Benjamin Stoddert Association Board of Officers, and Members, I stand relieved. Aloha
and Godspeed.
Herm
Chambers
