USS DOLPHIN - AGSS 555

This is a model of AGSS-555 and it's spot on. I cannot find one photo showing "Dolphin's" port side as clearly as this. It's always taken from the Starboard side. Here you can see the ladder rungs on the portside. On the bridge shows the railing and bench for watch standers. In the rear/aft end (right side) you can see a white round "surface" radar.

On the forward (left) side of the bridge you can see "DOLPHIN's" own unique sonar equimpment. This picture was provided by http://www.fxmodels.com/agss-555.shtml

FX Models 111 Seymour Road Terryville, CT 06786

The bridge shows the following:

forward(left side) sonar components

The USS DOLPHIN is heading out to the open waters of the Pacific. It is coming from the direction of "Mare Island Naval Shipyard" in Vallejo, CA

http://www.vallejomuseum.org/shipyard.htm This is a really great picture of how USS DOLPHIN AGSS-555 looks while at sea. Notice the diesel smoke coming from the back.

It has been proposed by San Diego Maritime Museum that the "port" side of the "Berkeley" will berth "USS DOLPHIN AGSS 555". This water front is on Harbor Drive in San Diego, CA. Nearby is the famous "Star of India". Will keep everyone up to date on the final decision of the its museum berthing spot.

This is a great picture of USS DOLPHIN AGSS-555. It has to be between 1999 and 2003 due to it's topside.

The San Diego Maritime Museum should have the Dolphin open to the public sometime (in March?).Here's the link to the information from SD Maritime. DPG

Just a little background about snowzilla. He appears around Christmas in this one guys' front yard. Well, this time he's HUGE. Here's the link to the news of the wierd from MSNBC.Merry Christmas everyone!

Reuters just put out this news article that at least 20 people are dead, approimately and 20 injured during sea trials aboard a russian submarine. Some of the dead/injured were from a shipbuilding company. It is believed to be possibly one of the worse accidents since the Kursk. Here's the link to the article. 202 people were aboard.

Another link via Russian News & Information Agency (RIA)

This is a picture of the Onodaga, an Oberon class submarine. There were 3 in existance, now 1 remains and will be a museum piece. The Oberon class were constructed circa 1960's and decommed in the 1990's. If you want to see this submarine, it will be stationed at the Musee de la Mer de Pointe-au-Pere in Rimouski, Quebec. It was sold to the museum from the government for 4 bucks plus tax. The link to the article is here. DPG

Weylin Engel has a 30 foot non operational mini submarine in his backyard that he would like to sell. Anyone interested, call the owner. To view the submarine, click on this link to the maritime museum's newletter.

Ok, it was a mistake, but a good mistake. I was at the decom ceremony and accidently pushed the video on so here's to my mistake. DPG UPDATE: 04 NOV 08 - HINT: LISTEN TO THE VIDEO BLOOPER, DON'T WATCH. DPG.

Two photos of the last crew aboard the USS Dolphin.

This is a picture of the ballast control panel (bcp)on the USS Dolphin.

The galley. Serves 6 at a time.

Cool huuh?

DPG

Here's the link to the story on SanDiego6's website.
A special thanks to B.H. for finding the article.

DPG

The USS DOLPHIN was transferred to the hands of the San Diego Maritime Museum in a ceremony in Washington D.C.

Exerpt from the San Diego Tribune:

"...Ownership of the one-of-a-kind research vessel was transferred Thursday to the Maritime Museum of San Diego in a ceremony that participants likened to a wedding service, with Navy officials on one side and museum representatives on the other..." Here's the link to the article.

Big thanks to Rose Creasman and Steve Liewer for the heads up about the article.

The Dolphin should be on display by the end of the year. (we're hoping)

DPG

UPDATE: Forgot the news article on navy.mil. Sorry for the delay.

Here is a "unclassified" picture of the ships control panel onboard USS DOLPHIN AGSS-555.

A note to one of my readers. Mr. J. Stagg I apologize about the wrong picture of the USS DOLPHIN's SCP earlier. I will give details at the next submarine function.

I don't really want to do it, but here's the submariner's song that I found on you tube.
Enjoy. DPG

You heard correctly. If you were a Dolphin Sailor and you live in the San Diego area, the San Diego Maritime Museum would like your participation. They need docents to help with the documentation, interpretation and oral histories. If you would like to volunteer, please contact the San Diego Maritime Museum's docent program.

DPG

Note: If you would like to give any oral history of the Dolphin online, please go to my other site -
www.uss-dolphin-agss-555.blogspot.com .

The Daily Record reports of a substance that is eating away the outer hull of a submarine.

Apparently, the old submarines (nuclear) are being eaten alive by orange microbes. The Scots noticed on the HMS Revenge, that the sub, after being docked at Rosyth dockyard for the last 20 years, was kinda looking cock-eyed. Three holes in the outer shell were found by divers. So now, the Scots are trying to figure out how to get rid of their decommissioned submarines. Don't worry, the holes were plugged up immediately.

You can read about it by clicking this link.

DPG

Here's a link to a collection of documents via the Naval Historical Society.

DPG

Guess what was found on Diesel Power Magazine? A video of the Dolphins' engine. Yup.
Because of copyright infringement and stuff, I'm just going to link you to the magazine.

sidenote: JW, this is for you.

DPG

Found this picture on NAV LOG. Anyone know where it was taken and whats on the sub? Click on this link to find out - but beware, its a long read.

Figured it out yet?

DPG

Via NAVSEAs Media Room/Navy Inactive Ships Program -Washington, DC -- June 23, 2008

"The Navy has determined that the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s application for the permanent donation of ex-DOLPHIN (AGSS 555) has met the minimum requirements for donation as a museum and memorial. The Navy intends to donate and transfer ex-DOLPHIN to the Maritime Museum of San Diego by September 2008. "

No joke, you can check the info out yourself by clicking this link. Also found a good photo of the
Dolphin but it is in a .pdf format.

Waiting patiently,
DPG

Look whats been spotted on Ebay :

Silent Service Challenge Coins has a USS Dolphin AGSS 555 DBF USN Sub Submarine Coin " on sale. Get them while you can.

DPG

To view who is winning click on this link.

DPG.

(photo from Black Dots /McKenna's Flikr photos. To view his other collection, click on this link.)

Rumor has it that the San Diego Maritime Museum will have a new arrival. The San Diego Port District has ok'd the Dolphin to be berthed somewhere on the Embarcadero. While the official date of arrival is not quite clear, the Museum is hoping that the Dolphin will be home just in time of the Tall Ships Festival (that would be sometime in August). Here's the link to the article in the San Diego Business Journal for more information.

Hoping..hoping...hoping...

DPG

12 foot waves. Water. Lots of water. Confusion. Rescue.

Its been 6 years now and I still can remember what had happened that eventful night.

Found this interesting account from the Union Tribune and I thought I would post it again.

DPG

We're busy these days delivering presents, working or socializing. Well... hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Or Turkey Day to some of you out there. Hope you all have a happy one!

USS Kittyhawk is trying to get into Hong Kong's port but apparently something is holding them up. Some of the crew are going to be celebrating with American families over there. Will check back later for updates.

Here's something you might want to do - there's a webpage that gives thanks to the troops. Kudos to Xerox for sponsoring a much needed idea.

Saying Thanks to everyone for checking out this blog, and a special thanks to the person who sent me the link. Gotta love spam from the 'fam (just kidding).

DPG

Veterans Day. God Bless.

Big thanks to Troy Prince for these 2 pictures of the Dolphin.

Clicking on the picture will take you to the Midway Sailor site. Enjoy.

DPG

NEWSFLASH: DATELINE - JULY 11, 2007 from the Navy Dispatch :The HMS Gotland, the diesel electric submarine that was loaned to the United States by Sweden has finished her 2 year stint and is going home. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Jennifer S. Kimball). According to the Navy Times article , "US and Swedish officials decided [in February] to end the agreement and work with other countries to provide similar training to the pacific fleet..."

Other participating countries in negotiation: Chile , Peru and Columbia (which have been participating since '01, just not in the pacific) and Brazil.

Steve Perez, from the OC Register did a great article on the OC's blog about the ceremony and
the history of the submarine ride. What was interesting was for those who were handicapped and 'closterphobic' there is a room that resembles the insides of the sub and you can watch it on the big portal (screen). Go to this link and click on the link to "navy salutes nemo" (yes, bypass the write-up about the celebs being at the opening) and watch the video.

Myself and the OS will be going there as the OS says 'one of these days' when I'm free to report
to review the ride, personally.

Going deep,
DPG

The DBF Pin

In 1969, in one of those heated discussions on who is superior - diesel vs nukes- someone on the USS Barbel suggested that there should be a pin specifically for the diesel submarines who have to fill in for a nuclear submarine because it needed to be repaired. So, there was a contest to commission a design of the pin. ETR3(SS) Leon Figurido had the winning design. When the Barbel was docked in Yokosuka, the pins were made and sold at cost. Now, you decide which
source of information to read: wikipedia and/or submarine sailor.com . I like submarinesailor.com's version.

We wish everyone a safe and happy independence day.

Vintage photo of sailor on Dolphin.

Update: We believe that the Dolphin sailor is John Riemensehender... DPG

Go to this website and see for yourself. It has a community just for those who served in the services. So far, the Marines and Navy webpages work. You can look up and hook up with your ol'e buddies from waaay back. Take a gander. Its called TOGETHERWESERVED.COM

Watching out,
DPG

(thanks "JD" for the heads up)

This is the airport at Glasgow, Scotland where a Jeep crashed into the main terminal. The authorities believe that this vehicle bombing and the two other vehicles that were found in London are linked. Two men were arrested. Five bystanders injured, but not seriously.

There were people screaming and running from the SUV, including one of the assailants. One [assailant] was reported to have poured gasoline under the vehicle and set it on fire after crashing it through the glass doors.

The airport was evacuated and all of the flights were suspended - for how long, we're not sure. Other airports in the UK were also suspending their flights on Saturday. The United States' response was to increase its security in some airports, but not the threat level for now. Expect more security in the airports for a while.

Some links - here and here about the story.

Don't tread on me,
DPG

Picture taken from Signonsandiego.com photo by H.Lipin

February, 22, 2007, Jack Innis, a columnist of the Log - a boating and fishing newspaper, wrote an article about the donation of the Dolphin. As you know, the Dolphin was on the NAVSEA Donations program website before it disappeared due to "reconstruction" of the website. It still hasn't appeared on the website, however, there is an email address if you would like more information on the ships donation program. I'm not going to spoil what the article says, you'll just have to read it yourself.

I tried to contact NAVSEA and recieved this response to my question about the donation of the Dolphin in June. Their response was "...the Dolphin is on donation hold." .

I was contacted by a reporter from the San Diego Tribune. He wrote an article about the Maritime Museum bidding for the Dolphin. Hopefully, the Dolphin will be docked and open for business in the near future.

Another question arose while researching for this post: Has anyone contacted the Navy League and if so, does any entity want to "sponsor" the Dolphin?

Will update again,

DPG

NAVSEA 's website for the public is now being reconstructed. Well, better late than never!

DPG

The "Union Tribune" created a fantastic slide show for the decommissioning of the USS DOLPHIN.

If your a USS DOLPHIN crew member you will want to watch it. It is less than 5 minutes long. Notice the "commissioning pendent" just removed from the flag pole. Thats a sad sight to see for us crew members. I was there for the two days of decommissioning activitys. Both days were magical. Wish I got a hundred pictures, but I ended up with just a dozen.

Click on the link below and enjoy the great slide show provided by the "Union Tribune".

I created another blog for sea stories. Here's the link to the new blog. I am hoping that this NEW blog will generate some interest.

Going overboard,
DPG

Based on a February 2, 2007 article in the news, the mighty USS DOLPHIN AGSS-555 may be saved from a torpedo exercise ( thank god!). There is a couple of other news articles reporting the same thing. This blog will be reporting
the latest on this great news as it pans out. I hope to be stepping on board "USS DOLPHIN" once again soon. Perhaps I will be giving tours as a volunteer? The listed article is from "Boston.com". If I had a few million dollors I would take "Dolphin" under my wing myself.

Here is the link to what I read myself. Here's the NAVSEA Navy Ship Donation Program site as well.
The other articles basically said the same. I have a straight board. Going to dive into some sleep.

David

This is the article that "Bubblehead" has mentioned. http:http://www.sdreader.com/php/cover.php?mode=article&showpg=1&id=20070118. Personally I experinced a couple of bad drinkers on the "Baton Rouge" but nothing like the drug crazy sailors mentioned in the "Reader". I will bring up a drug story from the "Baton Rouge" and the "Dolphin" while I was on board. There is many, but these two are quite amazing and absolutly true.

99 % of us have memorys of crew members using and abusing drugs. These are two of mine.

While decoming the "Baton Rouge" in Vallejo, CA we had a standard floating office barge to take over for crew use during the decom. We had come over from Norfolk, Va for the decom. I reported for duty to take over as "barge watch" around 9 am on a weekday. No barge watch was to be found and a known heavy drinker was loged in as "on watch". I reported his absents to the "COB" after about ten minutes of searching for this sailor. The "COB" had me do a complete search of the barge for "the watch", so off I went. Can you imagine how amusing this was. This guy was ripe for seeing the captain at this time. I came to the last possible space he could be in "lower level deck 2". Behind the ladder in that space I found MM3 playing a hand held video game. I just went and got the COB and took over the watch. After a few months of alcohol counseling he was discharged from the navy. This guy was known by the crew as being "shit faced" one hour after getting off duty on the weekend. Definatly one of the bigger drinkers. Isn"t that amazing? He was also known as the guy for evacuationing half of tender in San Diego after over pressurizing the san tank hose while berthed off the tender on route to Vallejo. Shit was literally everywhere. I was on board the tender at the time and methane just infused half the tender. Cannot remember the name of the tender at this time.

Did two tours on USS DOLPHIN and on my first tour we had a "mess specialist" on his first and last hitch do a amazing departure. After a couple years of sea duty, a cook on board "Dolphin" had enough of the navy. The duty days where just to much for him he said. The total navy thing was too much for him. He smoked pot many of his weekends off and decided to use pot as a exit out of the navy. While the "Dolphin" was inport in San Diego this MS decided to smoke a joint and go to work the next day. After morning muster he went to our HMC and told him he smoked a joint the night before. His intention was to get out of the navy. Within 30 days he was discharged, "dishonorably" of course. Amazing! Good guy otherwise. I remember him just hating the watches at night. To those of you that know of watches for cooks, "USS DOLPHIN" was different. Our cooks stood "POOD" and other watches inport. We had a crew under 50 crew members, so this was just the way it was. I realize the nuke subs did not have their cooks stand watches as POOD. "USS DOLPHIN" had a totally different way of operating as a submarine.

Anyone hear anything about the Dolphin recently? I've been trying to get some information, but to no avail.
So, if you know where the USS DOLPHIN is... please let this blogger know - we're hoping she hasn't been used as a
"sinkex".

DPG

Ok, I get it. The Dolphin being decommissioned ruffled some feathers out there. Here's a television stations editorial about the decommissioning. Someone should give them a glimpse on how the government is going to "dispose" of the ol'e girl. So, without further ado, I give you the link to the 10news editorial. Maybe we can leave some feedback too!

Here's a glimpse of the Swedish Submarine - The Gotland and a graphic of one.

If you're interested - there will be a tour of the Gotland on October 18th and November 28th
of 2006. Go to the United States Submarine Veterans website for more information on how to sign up.

This famous photo that has been floating around the internet for a while was used for a cover on
a memorial DVD. What my SO noticed is that the person circled seems familiar. Who could this be? Anyone want to guess?

I'll answer that in a later post.

UPDATE:
The picture in question was taken circa 1995 I believe. The person who is circled, well, its me. I recall the photographer taking pictures that day.

(Storekeeper Seaman (SS) Daniel A. Rody)
The Navy Compass on September 15th, 2006 wrote an article with the subject heading of:
"USS Dolphin Pins Last Silver Dolphin". HERE IS A BLURB:

The 23-year old Philadelphia native was the last USS Dolphin (AGSS 555) crew member ever to earn the highly sought-after qualification Sept. 12, 2006 during a Naval Submarine League luncheon at Naval Base Point Loma, Calif. Rody will report to USS Springfield (SSN 761) this fall and hopes to finish his Associate of Arts degree soon after.

After 38 years of active service, Dolphin will decommission later this month with 100 percent enlisted submarine warfare qualified Sailors.

The San Diego-based submarine, Dolphin is the Navy's only diesel-electric, deep-diving, research and development submarine employed by both the Navy and civilian personnel.

Lets have a moment of silence whilst I do some upkeeping on the blog. Until then America..........

UPDATE

The subreport.com has audio and a film slide show of the Dolphin decommissioning if anyone is interested.

Thanks again to the U-T for this article and slideshow.

Some people have money riding on what happens to the Dolphin after the decommissioning. Others want it as a museum. As we heard through sources, there are two groups who are actively trying to get the Dolphin and make her a museum. But where would you put her? How about back into the San Diego bay right next to the Midway as a floating museum? Heck, I'd go see her!

Well, here's where the "reunion" was taking place. "Family". Thats what we represented that night. Young and old alike agreed. Many "sea tales" were orated. Others were acted out.

Overall, we had a good time. Oh yeah, the food and the service was good too.

On the inside, there were displays of old pictures of yesteryear and what the Dolphin had accomplished during its tour of duty. Unfortunately, the pictures are a wee bit out of focus. The funny thing was that these two guys before they shut down the shin-dig took them away.

After the official shin-digger, the next stop was to Desi 'n Friends - the ol'e Horse and Cow where some took it up a notch. Or did I say too much....

And last, what I would like to say is - for all those who are PC about words, please don't read this. Here is the "submariners song" which the younger generation were singing :

submarines once submarines twice

holy jumpin' jesus christ

we go up and we go down

we don't even **** around

Aoooga Aoooga dive dive

diveratshit batshit dirty ole **** 69

*******s tied in a knot cumsucker mother****er

gobble gobble chew

i'm a submariner who the **** are you?

If you can read that, your eyes are better than average!

Found a video from the Navy News desk that takes a quick peek at the newly reconditioned insides.

DPG

Since 1968, the USS Dolphin has faithfully served the United States Navy. Its with sadness that we must report that the Dolphin is being decommissioned this year. Some would say finally, considering that it was supposed to be decomm'd a while ago. We will miss her.

Here is a photograph taken when the Dolphin was in Canada/Washington.

UPDATE

The San Diego Union Tribune and 10News.com both have articles about the Dolphin
being decommissioned. Would like to thank the author of the Trib's article and Bubblehead's
posting. Thanks fellas!

There are other people to thank, just can't find the links yet. More to come.

UPDATE

Here's one from the Strategy Page about the Dolphin by J. Dunnigan entitled "Old Subs Do Eventually Die".

Happy Independence Day!
Hope everyone enjoys the day off, and please don't drink and drive. We've had a lot of crackdowns lately on unruly partiers as well. So enjoy yourself, just don't go overboard.

On the local station KUSI this morning, our local legend Rod Luck was at Humphreys by the bay (link here) with cooks from the Navy. These cooks learned new skills to better the breakfast, lunch and dinner for countless other Navy personnel. Some of them were mentioned
by name, others were appearing to be busy at their work.

Hudson, if you can see this - congrats on going to the White House. To all the other cooks -
hope you had an enjoying experience with one generous Chef.

Found some pictures on the Horse and Cow website. If you want to see the wallart of the Horse and Cow here's what you do - go to the website, then download filmloop (optional). The neat thing is that I'm thinking about having the Dolphin pictures displayed this way (ok, I'm a copycat!).

There are other things on the website that might interest you as well. For example - the clip
about the correlation between the "silent service" and the "horse and cow".

More clips coming soon - don't be a stranger

P.S. Pssst! The H&C have other submariner memorabilia.. Find your ship today!

DPG

Only here for a limited time... check it out before its taken again!!!!!
aag

There was an article in the san diego tribune about a group of submarinars from the WWII era and beyond doing a good thing - honoring the ir fallen. They need some help with fundraising - money to make this dream come true. You see, they are going to have 52 or so Elm trees on
Liberty Station - what was the Naval Training Base in San Diego, California. Along with the trees there will be plaques of the submarines and crew who are on "eternal patrol". We wish these fellas all the luck in the world, they deserve our thanks.

The project is supposed to be finished by next year. So far, the group has collected 30 thousand out of the 250 thousand that is needed to finish this memorial. So, I call upon those who can spread the word - calling all hands- to help these guys out.

I have linked to the article so you may read all about it.
If you have any other questions about the project, or would like to contact the group directly,
here is the address:

sandiegochapter@san.rr.com
San Diego Chapter,
U.S. Submarine Veterans of WWII,
P.O. Box 81984, San Diego, CA 92138

Its Memorial Day. Have a great weekend and remember those who are and have served in the armed forces.
Those who are celebrating (with alcohol): reminder - the cops are out there watching you.
Speaking of which, there is a rumor going around that a "social law" is being hashed out
in San Diego. Not sure if its going to take hold, but the law would mean that underage
drinkers just aren't (drinking). More deta ils to come.

Enjoy the "first day of summer"!

DPG

This is classic Homer Simpson. He's at boot camp right now, but in the episode "Simpson Tide" ( somewhat of a parody of the movie "Crimson Tide") Simpson actually saves the other
submarinars from a fate worse than no beer. Found the picture at this website. In the same episode (we believe), there was a parody of the Village People's song "In the Navy" that
depicted a submarine (class unknown).

More to follow (just have to find them first).

UPDATE

Bubblehead has another on his site. Guess "24" is going to show some submarine on their program. We'll be looking for the critique later.

Found a webpage about the show "JAG" (now in rerun mode) that had mentioned the Dolphin in an episode called "Overdue and Presumed Lost".

As for the Dolphin crewmembers who were on board at the same time as I, the song from Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody - comes to mind. Ah, those were the days.

FLASHBACK.... May 21, 2003 - the day that the Dolphin almost didn't make it .....

Berlitz created the reenactment in a commercial. To those who served on the Dolphin, you'll appreciate this little piece of irony.

DPG

The USNS MERCY, and its crew (can't forget about the crew) is on its way to Southwest Asia..?
Ok... These brave men and women who are going out for a 5 month deployment are on a humanitarian mission.

We'll be waiting for you at homeport!
Best wishes.......

UPDATE: 29 May 06
I found the webpage that will give more information on what the Mercy is doing while at sea. To
view this webpage, click here. Lots of pictures there too!

Cool huuh? Its the Dolphin at the Pier!

This time it seems as though Steve Fossett is trying to go the deepest in a submarine..
We say, good luck to him. OF course, the USS Dolphin is THE deepest diving diesel submarine in the United States Navy! Got the information from BYMnews.com (to those who don't know what this stands for its Boating and Marine News). Not sure about the accuracy of the information - maybe he's trying out for another world record of another sort.

We here have a suggestion - for the best diving experience, maybe Mr Fossett might look into
going to Monterey, California, where there is actually a canyon down there and explore that.
Ok, maybe not.

Found a fictitional deptiction of the USS Dolphin actually portrayed by the USS Ronquil (SS - 396) in the Movie "Ice Station Zebra". Did you know that the Ronquil was also a diesel sub? Yup again. Kinda interesting how the story plot goes with the Dolphin in the arctic.

Bet you didn't know that the Ronquil changed names and hands in the 1970's. Yup. We gave it toSpain. They changed the name to SPS Isaac Peral (S-32) and was decommed in the 1980's.

Oh, forgot to say that the Dolphin in this picture is supposed to be a nuke.
There's a couple of actors you would probably recognize, others you'd probably not but hey, its a movie. Supposed to be a good one. Here's the link to the site where I found the info, they also have some other good movies about submarines real or fictitional.

The Muslim population is upset about this cartoon. To know more about the history of this cartoon, click on the
cartoon, which should lead you to wikipedia's website. If you want to see a larger version of that cartoon page, go to this websitevia Faithfreedom.org. On the bottom left corner, there should be a green button with 4 arrows on it. Click that button on to see the larger pictures. IF you get adventurous, go see Muhammed's Believe it or Else pamphlet. Warning: It does quote the Q'uran

She's for rent... to someone who needs her.

The McGaw was the vessel that actually helped rescue the crew of the Dolphin. SO, to honor those people who actually helped the Dolphin, we give you the opportunity to browse their website. But wait! Look at the history log, you'll see info on the accident.

Aw c'mon, it wouldn't hurt, right?

1998 - April
Santa Barbara Experiment
The USS DOLPHIN and the USS ACOUSTIC EXPLORER were there along with MIT.

So, without further ado, here is the weblink to the site and another one here. Caution: There are some .wav files on there that sound like *gasp* sonar!
Bathymetry. Whatarush!

December16th 2005 -

Just finding some information. This time from the MaritimeTechnology Reporter about the USS Dolphin doing what it does the best - testing. . In 2006, the shallow water acoustic torpedo testing will occur - to some, its the same stuff that they did before the accident. But to others its a new day, a new experience. In the meantime, hey, there's always a good fire drill that can be
squeezed in with all of the stuff thats going on!

Update - found another site that had the same interesting information.

Its 2006.

Be safe. Drink, don't drive. Act stupid only when in public (just kidding) and don't do what this guy did.

Around San Diego County, law enforcement is out there. You don't want to be one of those guys who actually gets to go into the "drunk tank" just to stay for a couple of days until your court date. SO why drink and drive? Get a taxi, ask friends who aren't drinking, go by trolley or by train. Just don't get on the freeway, pass through a checkpoint and get caught.

Yes, this has happened tonight, er, last night believe it or not.
Just heard on the news that there was this unfortunate person, not sure if it was military, but thats what the news reported, underage too ( I believe it was 18), who got caught. He did the whole sobriety test. I believe I heard that he didn't really act drunk or look drunk - ok, whatever - but when he took the brethalizer test he didn't pass. Boy is his hiney in BIG trouble.

Will bring you more info on this later.
Go have fun now.

Happy New Year!

David

Hmm.. it looks fierce...

to read more about how the army got the mascot of a mule, click here.

To see a video about the two rival mascots, click here

The Navy Mascot
to read on how the navy got a goat as a mascot, click hereBTW, the goats' name is "Bill" and the navy is on number XXXII and XXXIII

This picture I got off of the Navy News Stand of the Dolphin all gussied up for their COC er., Change of Command which happened sometime in November. Looks the same on the outside, wonder what it looks like on the inside?

Thanks bubblehead for beating me to the post. At least I have a few pictures up my sleeve! ARRRGH!
UPDATE
As I said before, I have a few pictures up my sleeve... hehe
So, here's some from Frank Toon at submarinesailor.com when the Dolphin was up in Coo's Bay, Oregon.
Enjoy the view and I'll be back with some more!

Still looking for shipmates to exchange stories here.. :-)

May 21, 2002

I recall that day. 12 ft waves, flooding, the cry of "ALL HANDS ABANDON SHIP!" - oh yes, I recall that day.

The Dolphin was my home away from home. OH how I loved to go on away missions. But all of that changed after May 21, 2002.

After the accident, we were drydocked for a while. Now - about 3 1/2 years later, the Dolphin is going back to
sea.

The San Diego Times Tribune has a good article about the Dolphin.

Will share stories later.

David

Hope everyone has a memorable Veterans Day.

There's no doubt that Adrian Camacho, a mexican citizen, documented gang member and a recidivist (he keeps coming back to the US illegally) killed Officer Tony Zeppetella in the parking lot of the Navy Federal Credit Union in Oceanside on June 13, 2003.

The defense is trying to play the "slightly innocent" card by saying he was not in his right mind. We'll keep you informed about this outcome.

UPDATE

Adrian Camacho was found guilty on November 14th, 2005 of first degree murder with special circumstances in the shooting of Tony Zeppetella, an Oceanside Police Officer. There were seven women and five men on the jury. The penalty phase will be conducted on November 28th. In this trial, the jury will decide whether he should be sentenced to death or life without the possibility of parole.

UPDATE

Adrian, I'm so sorry dude. The people vs adrian camacho - the people of the jury have decided for the death penalty. May god have mercy on your soul. amen

UPDATE 1/6/06

A stretch of State Route 76 in Oceanside has been dedicated to Tony Zeppetella. For more on the dedication, go to NCTimes.com's webpage.

UPDATE 2/7/06

Adrian Camacho sentenced to death. Judge said while she can forgive him, she cannot forgive his actions. Camacho will be on death row (along with others) until his execution.

At one point in time, Officer Zeppetella was in the Navy.

You heard correct. The DOD is watching the content of certain types of blogs.
So, as a guideline, the DOD has posted a website on what is appropriate and not.

Here is an exerpt from an article on Military.Com's website:

October 4th, 2005

WASHINGTON — Army officials this week issued new warnings to soldiers
about posting personal stories from combat zones on the Internet and
taking photos at overseas bases, saying those actions could jeopardize troops’ security.

The list of prohibited activities includes taking photos of Defense Department facilities, posting any official Defense Department information and releasing information detailing job responsibilities.

“Whether it is a family Web page or a personal blog, safety and
security measures must be strictly observed,” the message said.
“Sensitive DOD information must not be divulged to the public at
large for national security reasons.”

The message also notes that even some unclassified information “may
not be appropriate for use on the Web” and directs all other
questions related to prohibited activities to security managers.

Army spokesman Paul Boyce said the goal isn’t to prevent soldiers
from writing about their time in a combat zone, and said he knew of
no discussions considering shutting down blog sites or banning the
use of personal cameras.

But Boyce said soldiers need to know that simply taking photos could
threaten operational security.

“We’re just re-emphasizing the danger here,” he said. “We have warned
soldiers to please be extremely careful of any photography,
especially street scenes, because they could be useful to the enemy.”

Boyce said shots of the aftermath of insurgent attacks or roadside
bombs are especially dangerous, because insurgents could use them to
gauge the effectiveness of their attacks.

Officials said the new guidelines were designed to be a reminder to
troops and were not prompted by news this week of a Web site offering
free access to pornography in exchange for gruesome war photos.

Some guidelines

There are new OPSEC guidelines which have been put forth by DOD and the Army regarding internet safety. Whether it is a family Web page or a personal blog, safety and security measures must be strictly observed. Sensitive DOD information must not be divulged to the public at large for national security reasons.

Below are some facts regarding security and important links to sites which provide valuable and timely information regarding this important topic.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the posting or dissemination of certain information, do not hesitate to contact your security or OPSEC manager.
Photography is prohibited in most DOD facilities. Do NOT post any photographs on any Web sites.
Be careful never to divulge information regarding official DOD information. Even if DOD information is unclassified, it may not be appropriate for use of the Web.
Do not give information regarding the job you do for DOD. Log on to AKO to see an important message from the Chief of Staff of the Army regarding OPSEC Security.
Source: The Pentagon OPSEC Working Group

Just a reminder from "Big Brother" that he's out there watching.

Here's an exerpt of an article provided by defensewatch that military.com had on their website on or about September 23, 2005. Sorry I'm late with the information.

"..On September 23, 2005, a small, select group of U.S. Navy officers is scheduled to have an opportunity to help make a very important decision that will potentially affect the good order and discipline in the ranks of all our military Services...

On December 6, 2004, Navy Petty Officer Pablo Paredes showed up at the San Diego pier where his amphibious assault ship, the USS Bonhomme Richard, was scheduled to deploy to the Persian Gulf, in a black tee-shirt with white letters that read, "Like a Cabinet Member, I resign." At Paredes' request, there were many media representatives at the pier to report his actions.

Paredes refused to board the ship, thereby missing his scheduled six month deployment, which is a violation of Article 87 of the Uniformed Code of Military Justice (UCMJ): "Any person subject to this chapter who through neglect or design misses the movement of a ship, aircraft, or unit with which he is required in the course of duty to move shall be punished as a court martial may direct."

"I'm going to throw my ID in the water and say that I'm no longer part of the military," said Petty Officer Third Class Pablo Paredes, 23. "I want to make a statement, and I want it to be heard."

Paredes was tried and convicted at a Special Court Martial on May 11, 2005. Paredes was sentenced to a reduction to the lowest rank, two months' restriction to a navy base, and three months of hard labor. The sentence fell short of the government prosecutors' recommendation of nine months' confinement, a bad-conduct discharge, reduction to seaman recruit, and forfeiture of pay and benefits. The maximum punishment for violating Article 87 of the UCMJ is a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for two years..."

Yes Pablo, they did hear you.
Unfortunately, in my opinion, this was a slap on the wrist.

To see what others said about Pablo, please go to the indepunditand soldiers for the truth
If you want to see where he should have spent the rest of the 20 months of service, go here

USS DOLPHIN is a non-combative ship and it's SCP (ships control panel) is not classified. The exeception is the covered area on the top left of the "scp". It is believed that USS DOLPHIN's "scp" will be for the public to view in a museum after 2010.

Did you know that USS DOLPHIN operates with a "lone helmsman"? He is the stern planesman and helmsman all in one. AGSS-555 does not have bow planes nor fairwater planes. A hard concept to accept at first, but it's true. Being the deepest diving sub in the world, it was decided to minimize the number of hull openings, therefore no bow planes or fairwater planes.

Heard on the television that the USNS MERCY" was headed toward the hurricane ravaged areas of Louisiana and Mississippi to help the locals. They will depart around September 7th.On the local NBC news affiiate, they also mentioned that the Mercy was/is drydocked in San Francisco. Depending on their readiness status, it would take the minimum of a day and a half to get out of drydock - about 36 hours. According to sources, it would take approximately 5 to 7 days (we're not being exact here) to get to the Gulf. If they are in San Francisco, tack on another day to that estimation.

So, if there is any relief in site, it will be in mid september (a guestimation). Just hoping for the best. But there is good news - her sister ship, the USNS Comfort is also heading in the same direction. Here's the link to The Gazette for more information on the USNS Comfort's deployment.

Update: September 2

Ah ha. The press isn't always correct in their information. Shame on them for not researching and shame on me for listening to them! The Comfort will be deployed while the Mercy will not. This is coming from the Military Sealift Command or MSC. Sure hope they have all the supplies and other stuff they need, its gonna be a long journey for everyone. God Speed you guys.

Update: September 7

Well, just for verification purposes, I contacted MSC via email and recieved this response:
"Actually it is USNS Comfort that will be deployed (to learn more, visit http://www.msc.navy.mil/comfort/katrina/).

USNS Mercy is berthed in San Diego and has not been ordered to activate. USNS Mercy deployed to Southeast Asia last January in response to the Dec. 26 tsunami for a six-month humanitarian relief mission..."

Looking forward to updating on the relief efforts soon...

UPDATE

USNS COMFORT returned to Baltimore on October 13th, 2005. To read the additional press release go here.

While surfing through www.nara.gov website, found some interesting posters from WWII.
Came across this one that was worth more than I could say.

more posters

Looks like Jeff Edwards of "Military.com" has posted some dry but interesting readings. I believe that there is evidence of WMD, but Saddam was very good in hiding it. Mass graves are discovered in Iraq from time to time and eventually a cache of WMD. Beyond the WMD is a long list of reasons why we should be in Iraq. Hats off to the Americans that see how important it is to be in Iraq.

The picture is a rare one ( really) so sub photo collectors be sure to cut/copy this one.

Here is the USS DOLPHIN AGSS-555 coming in to it's special pier at "SPAWAR" or to some of you retired folk, "NRAD". Next to the "Dolphin" pier is where US Navy seals get their mammal dolphins trained for underwater bomb and mine detection. David

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