Hope all have a great and safe New Years celebration tonight! See you soon in New Orleans!

Shipmate's,

Be advised that I am in receipt of the contract for the 2010 Inchon Reunion.

We will be meeting at the Brent House Hotel in New Orleans, Louisianna from April 21 - 25, 2010.

Any assistance you are able to provide in getting the word out to any Shipmates you are in contact with would be greatly appreciated. Info to follow in mailings to all dues-paying members.

More information will be posted as it becomes available

David Fix, Reunion Planner
USS Inchon Association

The Board of Directors of the UIA announces with deep regret the passing of Mariclaire Wine. Mairclaire was also a Charter Member of the Association. Mariclaire held the honor as our only non-service member USS Inchon Association Member but more specifically she has been a Charter Member from the inception of the association. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jack and the rest of the family.

The 5th Reunion for former shipmates of the USS Inchon will be held in Washington, DC From April 22-26, 2009. We will be meeting for hospitality, tours, dining and friendship at the Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, Dulles Airport.

Host Hotel:

Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts
DULLES AIRPORT
2200 CENTREVILLE RD.
HERNDON, VA 20170

ReservationWeb Site:

Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts

Reservation Phone Number:

1-800-381-9553

Reservations may be made online by going to the web site listed above. To make your reservations by phone, please call 1-800-381-9553 and ask for the special rate for the USS Inchon Association (group code - UIA ) at the DULLES AIRPORT

Rooms are available from April 20 to April 29 at the UIA rate. This group rate will be honored three days before and after the reunion dates based on availability!

Nightly Rate: $89 + tax per night for Double / King Rooms

More details about events, tours and meetings will be added as they become finalized.

See you in April! David Fix, Reunion Planner (717) 203-4152

MAC Michael Kapinkin, (MA2 Animal, 82?-84,) passed away 26 Aug 2008

I will miss you "Animal".
Spent many "Extra Duty" hours at the MAA shack, Animal was a stand up MAA! A good man and always fair.
I'll never forget him pulling me aside for chat and some sound advice after a little trouble I had on the Quarterdeck one insane night!

God Speed Kapinkin, you will be missed by your Inchon family.

JD

A request from a gentleman in the UK:

Hi,

I wondered if you could help with my request about a ships photographer.

My Mother in law Mrs Simmonds (Audrey, now 85) used to work in a pub (The Wheatsheaf) in Leigh Park Near Portsmouth in the 1980s and she has a signed photo of USS ICHON which was given to her and her husband by l think the ships photographer who also invited them both on the ship.

The photographer was a real gent' and his name was Pearl ? unfortunately she can't remember his surname.

All we would like to know if possible is; Is he alive and well, how old is he or as and when did he retire and where to.

If you can't find any information, thanks anyway.

Glenn Lucas.

----

If you know who this gentleman is referring to, please drop a note to the webmaster or leave a comment.

The USS Inchon was deployed to Vietnam within a few days of returning from a North Atlantic deployment which included transit into the Arctic Circle. The nature of the Vietnam deployment was unusual in that the mission attached a mine sweeping operation. Needless to say for those serving at the time, the war had exhausted support of the civilian population. The Nixon presidency was unravelling on TV as we sailed into the Vietnam theater. The extent of the Vietnam deployment was uncertain depending on the Paris Peace Accord negotiations. Inchon participated in the Christmas bombing of Hanoi as an intermediate air controller for B-52s flying in from Guam. The ships mission finally settled into one of mine sweeping as part of the deal which included the release of the POWs. Chief Allen, SN Uhernik, and me were sent to Clark Air Force base to collect material for our homemade WIN TV station on-board. While we were at Clark we witnessed the departure of a number of the POWs to the States, having been cared for at Clark hospital. The moral of many of the services was pretty low in this period, but this mission with TF78 gave us something where we could be proud. We participated in a mission that help facilitate the release of our POWs. There is also a graphic of a patch designed by Don Amos that reflected the cynicism of the period here:

Clicl Here for Patch from EndSweep Operation by Don Amos

Operation Endsweep. 1973

Following is a summary of the operation by Col Van Northwick.a short summary by LtCol John Van Nortwick USMC Retired Operation Endsweep. 1973 In January, HMA-369's very unique and successful "hunter-killer" operations were terminated to prepare for the upcoming Operation Endsweep. HMH-463 (CH-53D's) with Dets from HMM-164 (CH-46D's) and HML-167 (UH-1E's) attached; and HMM-165 (a composite squadron with a mix of CH-53D's, CH-46D's and UH-1E's) joined TF 78, together with the Navy's HM-12 (RH-53A's). Endsweep was tasked with the clearance of US-laid sea mines from Haiphong Harbor and its approaches in accordance with the then on-going Paris Peace Accords. The operation was unique in many ways and required that the Marines assigned utilize high levels of ingenuity, flexibility, and political awareness. The key words were "High Theatre", as the operation was based on the statistical theory that a given number of mine sweeps in a given geographical area would produce a 99.9% assurance that no more live mines were present. The detonation of actual mines was minimal, but when that occured, it was most impressive. The hazards to the aircraft and aircrews lay in the flight envelope required to accomplish the mission. This envelope, summarized as 35 knots airspeed, 35 feet AGL, ball way out, high gross weights, and downwind in many cases required very high power settings and caused unusual stress on airframes and flight control systems. The loss of 3 A/C (2 Marine, 1 Navy) during ENDSWEEP was attributed to material failure in each case. Fortunately, no lives were lost. Initially, activities were limited to the installation of minesweeping kits (a streaming winch, a tow kit, flight control system modifications, a precise navigation system based on Loran, rearview mirrors, and 2 internal fuel cells) and AMCM aircrew training with the Magnetic Orange Pipe (MOP) at NAS Cubi Point. Even these activities were curtailed for security reasons. Word was that the bars in Olongapo were full of NVA "spies" that reported all TF78 activity to Hanoi. Although, probably not every activity was reported. On 28 February, 1973, after modifying all 15 of their 53's, conducting AMCM training for all of their own crews plus those of HMM-165 and HMH-462, who were being held in reserve, and enduring numerous green side/brown side out drills caused by the political environment, 463 and 165 deployed to the Grand Norway Island area outside of Haiphong Harbor with the rest of TF78. Again, political considerations at higher levels delayed the start of ENDSWEEP until 12 March. At that time, Det D of HMH-463, now aboard USS Cleveland commenced operations in the lach Huyen area of Haiphong harbor. In order to maintain one A/C continuously sweeping, it was necessary to launch 6 three hour sorties per day. The Det provided three of these sorties while the squadron aboard Inchon provided the remainder. At the same time, CH-53D's of HMM-165 provided support to HM-12 using the Mark 105 Seaborne Equipment Platform, a hydrofoil sled. A typical minesweep sortie consisted of towing the MOP or Mark 105 from the stern gate of the LPD to the assigned minefield, sweeping under the control of a nearby Navy minesweeper (MSO) for two hours, and a thirty minute return to the LPD. During the next four months, 463 and 165 learned new AMCM techniques and equipment on the job, cleared many areas near Haiphong and other ports, rotated back and forth to/from Cubi for maintenance, and endured the continuing political delays. By July, when ENDSWEEP was concluded, HMH-463, HMM-165, and HM-12 towed a variety of mine clearnce devices over 27,000 miles, more than the circumfrance of the earth, and logged over 2,000 hours of tow time. On behalf of the Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) Reunion Association, I would like to thank LtCol John Van Nortwick for his article on ENDSWEEP and the above summary that he submitted. I'm sure the Colonel would love to hear from fellow AMCM people, especially those that took part in Operation ENDSWEEP. The Colonel can be reached by e-mail at raceman@whc.net Last revised on 25 December, 1999 © Airborne Mine Countermeasures Association, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Webmaster - Barry Marple Virginia Beach, VA. Domain name property of Barry Marple. All rights reserved. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hello All,

This is my first entry into "blog waters", but I suspect it won't be the last. After reading the commments of so many of you about the 2007 reunion I too just wanted to say thanks. As others have said, we may not be from the same timeframe of service, but we all served on board the Inchon and that makes for a solid bond.

Special thanks to Chris Smith and Senior Chief Goe, I had a great time with you both, and you're right Chris you fit right in with us "older salts" !

Hope to see you all again in 2009 !

Alan

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Hello shipmates,
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!
JD

Good morning Mr. President... Now that greeting should get your attention! Just read on the website of tentative plans to hold the next reunion in Washington, DC. Spring of 2009. Word of caution-"Ill be there".
Only hope that we don't have as much fun as we did last month in Virginia Beach but DOUBLE it. I urge all association members to sign up for this reunion. You will not be sorry. If you're a former shipmate join the association and share good times with others at the Inchon reunions. I, seriously, doubt that there is another association or group that gets together that has as much fun as the guys from the Inchon.

JD, another thanks to you and board members for planning and carrying out these reunions. You are patriots and shipmates. Farewell and following seas to all and GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Hello shipmates!
Yes, it was indeed a great reunion once again. I am looking forward to the next one in '09. Thank you everyone for being there and those that could not make it to this one- plant the seed to attend the next reunion! I have been reflecting over the past few weeks on the reunion events and I have to say that I am very proud of this association and all of it's members. Who would of thought that we would be getting together after so many years? My wife- Tracy also extends her thanks to all of you. She has been telling everyone what a great time she had. As I think back to those few days of this past reunion (and after having a few cocktails) I thank God for giving us that time together. Let us all meet again soon!
Fair Winds my friends!
JD

Hello everyone I just want to say I had a great time at the reunion. I got home to Illinois and I was home sick for VA. Beach the weather was great. thanks to all who make thanks happen. I took many pictures and I will spend all winter making the scrapbook for our next reunion. I am going to keep searching for shipmates on the internet. see you all soon Kenny kutter

Thanks to everyone that came to the reunion. JD, Fixie and crew you did an outstanding job setting it up. I met some old friends I thought I would never see again, but there they were. I also met some new friends that I very much enjoyed meeting. It was one of the greatest times I have had in a very long time. I look forward to the spring of 2009.

Matthew Roe
U.S.N. Ret.

Just wanted to add my two cents about what a superb time I had at the recent reunion. The reunions are getting better and better. I think the board almost has this thing perfected!!!
Can't wait until Spring 2009. Thanks to everyone who worked so hard.

Tim "Bird" Ashlin BT2

I just wanted to say thanks to all and hope each and every one made it home safely. I had a great time and am looking forward to 2009. The memories revived were as enjoyable as the events and gatherings we shared. Best of everything to all.

Also I want to extend a special thanks to David, JD, and Kevin for thier extreme involvement.

Hello to all new friends, I had a wonderful week at the reunion, it was a great time with great memories. Thank you for welcoming me as a shipmateas if I was on even during your times. I have to especially thank Ms3 Mike Welsh, Ms3 Joe Netzel, and Ms3 Kenny Kutter. We cooks must stick together, and yes mike sure did make the week interesting. I also would like to thank David Fix and the association for allowing me to chime the bell at the memorial service that was such an honor for me. till next reunion fair winds and following seas.

I would concur with Senior Chief Goe. This was my first reunion but it certainly won't be my last. I hope that as long as there is life in my body that I will be able to attend every subsequent reunion. Fixie, can I register for 2009 right now?

Even though there were no others from my division during my time on the Inchon, I was able to meet so many other shipmates whose stories and accounts were as funny and colorful as any that I could share. There is a certain spirit, character and affinity among Inchon sailors and Marines which is unique only to our crew.

I forgot what a great combination that a bar+food+Karaoke (music)+fleet sailors was. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

I would also like to extend a heartfelt expression of thanks to all of those who worked so hard to make this reunion happen. We have a great Board of Directors and I know that every reunion will be a good one. Let's support and assist our Board as much as possible.

For any of you who are not yet a member, you simply MUST join. I promise you won't regret it. For any of you members who could not make this reunion because of conflicts, block out April/May 2009 right now.

"Never More Brightly"

Yes, fair winds and following seas to you all!

Jay Gunn
ABH-2
1980-1982

Shipmates...I just attended the 2007 reunion in Virginia Beach. To say that we had fun would be a complete understatement. Think of the best party you ever attended then multiply that by 100 and you'll have an inkling of this years reunion. The banquet to which an "uniform of the day is worn" (short sleeve embroidered
Inchon shirt with khaki pants) was the rowdiest party I've been to in years. Based on when you served onboard different groups were formed to sing a song of their choice. For you guys that served during the time I did (1982-1985) hold your head up high as we blew away the others by singing "GLORIA" by Laura Branigan. That particular song was more /less the ship's "theme song" during the notorious Beirut cruise of 1982-1983. This particular version of "GLORIA" was without a doubt, probably, the best Karaoke version ever sung. When you have 10-12 "old salts" on stage singing led by a "youthful"looking retired Sr. Chief (QMCS)
doing a "limbo" type hopping dance across the stage the only thing you can do is sit back and laugh. And guess what...that's exactly what everybody did. Seriously, though, fun was had by all. I would only urge all association members to plan to attend the next reunion in the spring of 2009. Reunions are generally held for 3-4 days. But you don"t have to attend the full time. If you could or would come just one or two days
especially banquet night I will guarantee you a great time. Think about the shipmates and friends you served with and occasionally think about then say to yourself "that's it I am going to the next reunion." Hopefully, we'll see you there!!! Fair winds and following seas. Sr. Chief Goe USN. (RET).

"Make all preparations" to party. Pack those "seabags", I mean suitcases, put a big smile on your face, and anticipate seeing the "best damn sailors" ever to man a ship. Seven days and counting...see you there. By the way "I'll buy the first one"...Sr. Cjavascript:smil('smr','');
hief Goe

hello everyone I also would like to invite past shipmates to join the association if you have not yet joined. I have made many friends in the past years. I can't wait untill october to see all my friends and make new ones. I am also looking for a old shipmate he served onboard the Inchon 1974 -76 his name is Rick Roberts and he was a cook. if you have any information please e-mail me at
kenny.kutter@gmail.com or kkutter@siue.edu hope to see you all there lets make this the best reunion yet kenny kutter

Check out the updated attendance list

The 4^th Reunion for former shipmates of USS Inchon will be held in Virginia Beach, Virginia. From October 10-14, 2007 we will be meet for hospitality, tours, dining and friendship at the Holiday Inn SunSpree at 39^th and Atlantic on the oceanfront. The mailing address is 3900 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

Tours include a visit to Historic Jamestown, Virginia which is celebrating the 400^th anniversary since becoming the first permanent settlement in the New World in 1607.

We will also be taking a full-day motor coach tour to Washington, DC where the highlight of the tour will be a visit to the Navy Memorial for a memorial service and wreath laying ceremony to honor our departed Shipmates.

Information will be sent to all shipmates in our database over the months leading up to the reunion.  If you are not signed up or have never received mail from the association, contact the Treasurer/Reunion Planner at fixie5659@comcast.net or call him:  David Fix (717) 203-4152

2007 Reunion Registration

In addition to registering for your hotel room (The instructions are listed below), you will also need to let us know what events that you will be attending. The events offered for this reunion are:

1. Welcome Reception
2. Jamestown & Williamsburg Winery
3. Washington DC Navy Memorial/Dinner
4. Banquet
5. Farewell Breakfast

There will be a $20.00 fee for each member attending with an additional $15.00 per guest.

To print out the registration: Click this link - 2007 Reunion Registration form

Once the form is opened, please print it, then fill out the form. When completed, send it to:
USS Inchon Reunion
1033 New Holland Avenue
Lancaster, PA 17601-5605

Hotel Registration

Make your reservations by calling the hotel direct at (757) 428-1711. If you encounter any problems, contact Dave Fix- immediately [(717) 203-4152].

Plan now to attend and join us in this memory maker you'll be glad you did!!

Host Hotel: Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort 3900 Atlantic Avenue Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Reservation Phone Number: (757) 428-1711* * You must mention USS Inchon Association Reunion when making reservations in order to get the discount!

Nightly Rate: $75 + tax per night for Double / King Rooms This group rate will be honored three days before and after the reunion dates based on availability!

Hotel Website: www.vboceanfrontnorth.com

So we are not charged for unused rooms, only a small number of rooms have been blocked for our use. If you have any trouble making reservations and are being told rooms are sold out, please contact me before giving up and making reservations somewhere else. I will check with the hotel and have the room block increased. You wont want to miss any of the reunion memories by staying away from your shipmates!

See you in October! David Fix, Reunion Planner (717) 203-4152

For those of you who have not been part of the blogging community, let me extend a hearty welcome.

What is a blog? Well, the word blog is simply a shortened version of the words 'web log' and it is nothing more than a virtual meeting room. The way it works is simple - an administrator will create a "post" and everyone is encouraged to enter comments on that post. You can even comment on other peoples comments.

For the USS Inchon Association, this blog will be a way to quickly communicate information to our members and receive instant feedback. So please, don't hold back, just jump in and let us know what you are thinking.

Welcome!