I’m one of the oldest posting here I think. Have not seen or heard or even one of my shipmates. The USS HUNLEY is gone and so are a lot of us. I’m 77 this year and I’m so grateful for the memories of my Navy days. Chief Dearman, EM2 Valdetera, EM2 Lutz and EM3 John W. Milby are the people I remember the most. We worked hard and worked well together. God Bless us all.
Well you are older than I am. I'm 76. I rode the Canopus over in to Scotland in '69 from Bremerton. I still hear from some of the crew. I've been back twice with AMCC for NATO. My wife is Scottish, but she was born in the US. Her grandparents immigrated to the US. The were from Greenock. I'm gearing up to deal with the VA. It turns out that there are a number of Issues connect to Desert Storm. I went Bahrain with MIUW 202 and drove trucks from Bahrain to Kuwait as the war ended. The oil well fires were something else. I don't know if anyone was on the Canopus while she was in Bremerton while she was in the yards. The yard birds tore down a lot of insulation that contained Asbestos. If were you should look into it. Note there are two VA's the one we think of is the hospital side. The other side deals with awards, for example PTSD. EN 1
My Dad was stationed there in 63'. That's where he met my Mom, she was from a small town across Clyde called Greenock. My sister and I were both born there before Dad got stationed in San Diego. On a visit recently to see my relatives my Uncle took me to a spot overlooking Greenock and the Clyde and showed me the pier my Dads liberty boat would come over to. The pier was almost gone, but I remember telling him, I'm glad that pier was here and not the next town over! Dad died in 79' from cancer, left my Mom with 5 kids, she was a tough old Scottish woman, but I love her for being so strong for us! Thanks for posting the video.
Hello, fellow Brat. My dad was on the USS Simon Lake A-33, and we lived in Gourock from 66-68 across from the Clyde. I am the youngest and went to primary school there, took highland fling and sword dancing lessons, and appeared to be a typical Scottish lassie. ❤ My best friend Dorothy's father was the Cloch lighthouse keeper, and I have fond memories of my times there with her. Thank you for this post.
I was on the Simon Lake for two years in Holy Loch. The Scottish people are the best there is. Years later, when I worked in Hollywood as an actor/ screenwriter, I wrote a film script on the wonderful times I had in Scotland, and the charming people I met..
USS HOLLAND AS-32 77-79 S-4 DIV, first duty after A school, couldn't have a better duty station, loved my time there, people and country will cherish that time of my life forever
USS HUNLEY AS31, I reported for duty as an E-2 electricians mate in February 1966. We were only there another 5 or 6 months and the Simon Lake came and took our place. I was 18 and couldn’t believe where I was. Not in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would get to visit this beautiful place and meet such wonderful people. Frank Applegate EM3, 1965-1968.on the AS-31 the whole time.
I was there on the Dry Dock part of 62, all of 63 and part of 64. Jerry lambertson en3, ran the boat shop with Sam Mormando under Chief Pepe. A lot of memories.
Served on Simon Lake December 1988 to Jan 1991 in R-1 Division, 56a Pipe Shop. Great place to be. Loved being there even though the workload could be overwhelming at times. Great job with the video.
My husband was on a sub that was refitted in Holy Loch. I am a military brat but my dad served in Vietnam but I love looking at photos of the area where my spouse was docked while in service.
Hunley 81-83ish. Rubber and Plastics shop. Someone mentioned it was the hardest working site in the Navy. That’s the first time I’ve heard that before, but I believe it. My shop was always busy, but I know the R1 guys were 12 on 12 off 365… I always wanted to tell the locals how much I appreciated them putting up with us. We were a lot…. I visited Dunoon and Sandbank few years ago and it’s still beautiful. A lot of memories hard work, and hard play…
My dad, CPO Clay Bailey, was one of the first. He helped set up and ran the Navy Exchange and Enlisted Men's Club from '61 to some time in '63. We came over in '62. Those times were some of my happiest childhood memories. I am still communicating with a friend from Sandbank Primary.
I served aboard the USS Canopus AS 34 from 71-73 in Holy Loch.I was an E2 shipfitter nuclear welder in R-1 division. We worked some crazy around the clock hours on all the boats alongside and in the dry dock. My twin brother served with me doing the very same. This video was awesome! It brings back great memories of some hard work. We did everything from ship alterations, piping repairs in the reactor compartments, poppet seat replacements in turbine chests to full battery replacements on the boats! Just a great video for someone who was there!
My dad was stationed there in the late 80's where he met my mom. My twin brother and I were born in Greenock. Loved visiting Dunoon with my parents in 2012. Great memories. Thank you for this video.
1970-71 aboard the SSBN602 Gold Crew; one of very few USNR called up to serve. Best memories were starboard watch heading out to patrol, early afternoon, flanked by Russian trawlers, then sliding down the ladder when the order to dive came through the MC. Great memories of Glasgow liberty, Scottish ice cream, the rosey cheeked children, Prestwick Airport, the ferry over to Greenock, and of course the pubs in Dunoon. CO was JD Leonard, COB was Honeysett, and shout out to any of the living still around . . . Hugo, Herb Zimmerman, Jody the torpedoman, Flood, my fellow grunt, Bill Thompson, Teddy Evans, Lt. Ball, and Tony Sohr. Bunked adjacent to "pot alley" and mess cooked first patrol, ran the ships laundry second patrol. Took the Zumwalt early out and went back to civilian life. Loved the early summer sunrise, late sunset, and modified daylight for the winter season. AS34 Canopus missile room fire casualty while out on patrol.
Diver aboard the USS Holland AS-32 from 1975 - 1977. Great memories of the people and the town. Had a flat up at the top of Mary St. Many pints and much laughter at Berts, John Paul Jones and the EM club. Well done on the video.
My dad served at the Holy loch site late 70's i think, his name is Tony Lytle and was a hull technician but im unsure of rank or which ship he served on. We lived in (a married quarters i think) in Dunoon at the time and my younger brother was born there too but its fascinating to see these images. In later life i grew up to serve in the uk navy for 6 years, must have been in my blood lol. Great video 👍
Very nice! My Dad served there twice. The first time was in 66. Married my Mum - she was from Glasgow - and I was born 9 months and two weeks later. The second tour was from 77 to 80 on the Holland. S3 Div. My brother was born in 78. I went back in 89 for a month to visit my Grandparents, Mum, and my Brother. I got to spend a few days in Dunoon and had a blast visiting old haunts. Thanks for the video.
great video thx, i toured around the base in early 80s, nana took me around it on a small tour ferry, never forget the sight of a massive sub out water, thankyou America for protecting the world keeping it free. thx to all u service men woman.
My Dad Larry (Lawrence) Zwolinski was on the Proteus and served in the Navy from 59-63. He was in New London, almost in the Cuban Missile Crisis, and stationed in Scotland. He would have been 82 on 4/24/2023. He passed away 11/17/22. He loved the navy and talked about Scotland all the time!
My dad is the one standing in front of the mini car.. its brought some good memories back to him all them years ago and he still remembers his registration plate on his car and a photo being taken. My big brother was on boat operations..
@@raylyall2195 Thanks, but really no reason to thank me or any of us who were just doing what we loved to do - being away from family 300+ days a year, 0 contact at sea, going to the places we did (but not really if asked)etc. I think the best part of being a Qualified Submariner is that you’re literally working with the other Top 2% in the Navy numbskulls like yourself. It’s something you really don’t appreciate as much as you should - until you get out of the Navy and are suddenly working with absolute bozos, wondering why you ever left the Navy & the Submarine Force. Did you ever get to spend time/live in Dunoon?🤔
Served on the USS Holland from 79-82 marine detachment. Great times even when the wind blew me off the road on my motorcycle. Riding with that big carrot suit. A Navy man gave me.
Was aboard the Hunley in Charleston in early 70. Canopus picked a bunch of us up and sailed to Holy Loch Scotland. Was the best time in my life there. Wish i would have stayed
Every once in awhile I come back to this video to t reflect and reboot. It was a lifetime ago but an indelible imprint in all that has shaped my life. To be young, part of something far bigger than yourself, and to be given the training and responsibilities that only now I fully understand the size of, makes being a veteran the one thing I am most proud of!
Four deterrent patrols out of Holy Loch in the late '70s. Joining the locals in Sandbank at lawn bowls. Pints of Tennants at Bert's and fish & chips in a shop on Argyll Street in Dunoon. A really tight band out of Glasgow (Dead Skunk Band?). Somehow I only remember the good stuff.
Some nice shots here, what a load of memories. My mum was from Greenock and it was my dream to get to Scotland. When I found out we had a base in Scotland it was game on! I got to meet most of my mum's relatives and a lot of other nice Scot people. The work during docking was long and tiresome, but we did get a ribbon for it. Some great guys on the dock during 77-78, see you on the AFDB 7 page!
I was stationed aboard the USS Los Alamos AFDB-7 for 18 months in 1981-1982. It was a great time for a single 19 year old. Lots of trips to Glasgow and London. I had a flat in Greenock for about 6 months.
I was on the USS Hunley (AS-31) from 81-83 and served in S-1 Division. My wife was with me plus our son was born at Dunoon Hospital. I was lucky as we had a Change of Homeport and Uncle Sam shipped our car over so we got to travel around.
That small town, was the size of a city even in those days. It should be remembered that it was one of the biggest ship yards ever, Browns shipyard built many of the huge ships. I served there too only for the U.K. navy in Faslane that had a floating dock and the Maidstone depot ship. I was part of a special diving team there and actually went to Holy lock on a few occasions to dive, i spent two years there.
I served on the Hunley from the summer of '86 - '87. I recall a military magazine that featured Holy Loch on the cover with the title, "The Hardest Working Site in the Navy.'
I was stationed at a Navy Weapons Facility on RAF Machrihanish, a bit to the south of Holy Loch as the medical department representative. I made weekly visits to the clinic at Holy Loch to get my patients seen by doctors and dentists as needed. I was there from 1991-1993 at which time I retired with 26 years and returned to my home state of Minnesota.
I was there from '73-75. Did a lot of skydiving up north of there ........... Great times. Learned how to properly drink Scotch Whiskey from the Locals and which brands were o.k. and which were their cheap export.......😆😅...... I regret not exploring my Scottish Heritage more but I did get out away from the ship and enjoyed the countryside. During some of the storms the wind meter was switched off when it hit 80 knots & higher. The subs tied alongside would bob up and down and no one could get on or off them till the wind subsided a bit. This was my second ship and was used to being the FOREIGNER but some of the less experienced sailors couldn't get over it. Such a shame. I had fun wished that I could have gone back.
Served on the Canopus AS-34 73-75 A-div small boats so I saw Ardnadam Pier quite a few times in every kind of weather imaginable...I sure miss the beauty of my ancestral home and the trip from the pier to Dunoon for some meat pies or fish and chips which I've never lost my craving for...Spent a lot of time at Sinbads in Dunoon since they had mastered Singapore Slings...I miss the ferry ride to catch a train to Glasgow and then a weekend stay in Edinburgh for visits through the castle...I could go on and on...I hope to return to the land that is tucked away in my dreams for I will always miss you!
As a crew member on the "Billy Bates" SSN-680, (1973-1977) there were a number of occasions we needed the services this place offered. As I recall, it was all serious business. Dunoon was my first introduction to local fast food, "fish and chips", warm and perfect . . . ! I imagine the locals were glad to see the base leave, but I for one, was captivated by the "magic" this place radiated. Thank you for the trip down memory lane.
I was an Opticalman 2nd Class on the Proteus from 1962 until she returned to the US. Best time i've ever had. I'm now 81 years old and think about that experience often. Last year (2023) i took my wife to Scotland for ten days. Stayed at an old hotel in Greenock. We rented a car and revisited all my favorite places. Took the ferry across from Gourock to (close to) Dunoon. Visited ardanadem (sp) pier, ate lots of fish and chips and fell in love all over again with the wonderful people. Boy, was i lucky to have lived then !
I was stationed aboard the USS Proteus AS-19 over in Guam from 88-91. It was nice to pics of the Old Pro from there. My wife’s uncle Roger Brown was stationed aboard the USS Woodrow Wilson SSBN-624. He retired from the Navy. We would talk for hours about our time in the Navy and when anyone would enter the room we would stop talking. Sadly he passed some years ago. Thank you for the memories.
Wow... Thank you. I was on one of the last subs to leave Squadron 14 out of Holy Loch, USS Ulysses S Grant. I hope to go back there some day. Thank you for all the people in Dunoon and the surrounding communities.... I miss the friendships.
I opted for Pearl Harbor and Guam and regret it. I got so tired of 80-degree sunny days and only summer. Give me seasons and gray, scudding clouds any day! I've always wondered what Holy Loch looked like and you've done that for me with your fine video! I served 4 years as electrician on the Daniel Webster blue crew, '69 to '73. Thanks for doing this great video!
Nice video , brought back some memories , USS Canopus AS34 , shop 38 , from sept 73 till got out in july 76 , rode her back to the states spent last few months in dry dock in Charleston
First long walk down that pier was summer of 1987 to the USS Lafayette (SSBN 616). Last trip down that pier was the day we started bombing Bagdad in 1991 leaving the USS James K Polk (SSBN645) for the final time.
Chose AS-33 out of A-School, in December '90. Came aboard with Capt. Riffer, so I had already started my tour on the Lake in good fashion. But it didn't make a difference when when I got busted for underage drinking when we went to the shipyards in 92? I think. Got 45/45.. any way , what was the Will Rogers gold you were with?
I went through boot camp with a guy from VA who went to the Washington. That would have been around 1969. His name George and I've forgotten how to spell his last name Mingike of something like that.
I served on on the Hunley for 2 years in Scotland until the Simon Lake relieved us and was actually fortunate enough to sail her home. We rebuilt her in Newport then the government decided to sink her. Part of my soul lies with her. This video is recognizable to me. God bless the AS-31 and all of it’s crews
Very Nice Video, Thanks. There during several upkeep periods aboard USS George Bancroft (SSBN-643) Blue -- 1966-1968, some very fine remembrances. Limited off-duty "liberty" periods, but fondly remember the Crown Hotel and Argyll Hotel liquid refreshment rooms, at Dunoon, Scotland. Who can recall what a "day-tripper" is?
My brother in law Ronnie Clarkson used to collect garbage from the Huntley. Toward lass wee puffer went up and down the holy loch. I was with him few times sadly Ronnie Clarkson has died like so many of the American sailors who worked on the submarines. Quite a few stayed in Scotland when the navy left. Dunoon and gourock was full of sailors and Marines great guy's.
Hi,Danny Pat Creen here remember Ronnie well I worked at Fairlie and Sandbank 1984/1992 great place was a store keeper at both facilities really miss it take care Danny ygt😂
I don't remember, but it might have been Ronnie. I would stop and talk to him. I remember the day the guys almost sank the puffer. We had a big inspection coming and we were told to clean up the helo deck. Some one had stored the head of an 6 110 engine up there. The heads were big and heavy. I went up and checked to make sure the stuff I had to look after was secure. I turned just in time to see six guys toss the head over the side. There was loud crash. I looked over the side and the was a geyser of water in the Puffer. The head landed straight up and down. The damage control team got the flooding under control. The Puffer went to one of the yards and they patched her.
@@Canopus68 I was on the vital spark para Handy few year's ago. The engineer skipper gave me and my son tour of the ship. Spotless and sort of puffer you could live on for lifetime. It was used for the TV screen para Handy. We spent 2 hours on the ship guy knew my brother in-law Ronnie. This was down at the Victoria harbour Greenock across from the fire station.
A blast from the past! I did my first two refits there in '78 on Lewis & Clark. I didn't get to see much though. Liberty is pretty poor when you're in "M" Division.....too many wrenches to pull!
@@imwithmikeb Hey Mikey!! Sure I remember you. Where you been? I'm in Louisiana.....retired for 5 years. Ron Johnson is the only one I've kept up with all these years. He did his time out at Comanche Peak...now retired.
I was stationed on the Hunley Jan -June 1971, Charleston, then transferred to George C Ma rshall. June 1971 and made my first patrol from Holy Loch. Neat location.
Served 20 years in the SSBN fleet. Started operating out of Rota, Spain. Later Kings Bay Georgia and then finally Bangor, Washington. Wish I had got to Holy Loch. Question: Seeing how the tender and drydock was anchored out in the middle of the Loch, how was electrical power managed? Did the tender remain continually "steaming" or were there shore power hook ups? Can't imagine having to boat ride into work everyday.
Holy Loch, Scotland USS John Adams SSBN 620 - 1976 The heather was in bloom. Impressed by how green everything was in Scotland and the fish and chips in Glasgow were great.
I was on USS Henry Clay Gold crew from 82-86. Made 8 patrols out of Holy Loch, including an ERP in the middle of the winter. That was pretty miserable.
Hey guys. I served there. With the Holland, '31 and the Hunley '31. And later on the Fulton, AS -11, off Sardinia. Kept the pressure on Gorbachev. Let's go guys. We did our part in ' tearing down that wall'. What you do with it now, go figure.
I was on the Greenling attached to SUBRON 10 / AS-11 in '80 & '81. My uncle was a Fulton plank owner and was on board for the shakedown cruise when Pearl Harbor was attacked.
If I have the numbers right, Kerry would have joined the Hunley in 1981 or 1982. As far as I know he was on her when she was in Guam. To bad in a way, being half Irish I think would have appreciated the opportunity to learn about Scotland firsthand. That man loved learning about everything! God bless you all!
Served on the Holland "Run She Must, Shine She May" from '80-'82...accompanied her to the Yard in Charleston. Who remembers the factory in West Greenock that gave off that strong,sooty odor😆? What were they burning in there???
Hi,the factory was Pointers the correct name was British Charcoal McDonald's they made Charcoal from animal bones for filtering and such for food industry mainly sugars they were eventually part of Tate&Lyle Sugar, unfortunately both refinery and Pointers now closed regards from Scotland
Gold crew 82-85 MM1/ELT / 7 patrols Great video brought back many memories. Looking forward to heading back with the Mrs to tour all of Scotland. Any recommendations for visiting the Dunoon area? Lodging, car rental options, travel by rail, etc. Thanks Brothers!
Would like to know:"What song and singer is that that plays last in this memory montage? Starts about 6 minute mark. Which singer? Song seems to be: " Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)" ua-cam.com/video/6PqZLwlPlHA/v-deo.html and/or ua-cam.com/video/eLqTZ07ja7g/v-deo.html
My father told me the painted a big red L on a white canvas and tied it to the back of the ship when they were training sailors how to drive the ship the captain was fucking pissed. Then the captain told them to paint the ship in the rain my father told the captain it cant be done the admiral was coming for inspection the captain told my father to use rags to dry the surface then paint again the captain was pissed he yelled what the fuck happened to my ship my father yelled out of the porthole "I TOLD YOU IT WOULDNT WORK" my father boatswain mate Boyer was on the captains shit list for a while
But the video doesn't answer the most important question: Feri's or Anselmo's for fish and chips. I was a fan of Fer's myself. I was there for refits on USS Andrew Jackson and USS James Monroe.
I’m one of the oldest posting here I think. Have not seen or heard or even one of my shipmates. The USS HUNLEY is gone and so are a lot of us. I’m 77 this year and I’m so grateful for the memories of my Navy days. Chief Dearman, EM2 Valdetera, EM2 Lutz and EM3 John W. Milby are the people I remember the most. We worked hard and worked well together. God Bless us all.
Wow, we came after you. My dad was on the USS Simon Lake A-33.
Thank you for serving, and God bless you as well. ❤
Well you are older than I am. I'm 76. I rode the Canopus over in to Scotland in '69 from Bremerton. I still hear from some of the crew. I've been back twice with AMCC for NATO. My wife is Scottish, but she was born in the US. Her grandparents immigrated to the US. The were from Greenock. I'm gearing up to deal with the VA. It turns out that there are a number of Issues connect to Desert Storm. I went Bahrain with MIUW 202 and drove trucks from Bahrain to Kuwait as the war ended. The oil well fires were something else. I don't know if anyone was on the Canopus while she was in Bremerton while she was in the yards. The yard birds tore down a lot of insulation that contained Asbestos. If were you should look into it. Note there are two VA's the one we think of is the hospital side. The other side deals with awards, for example PTSD. EN 1
My Dad was stationed there in 63'. That's where he met my Mom, she was from a small town across Clyde called Greenock. My sister and I were both born there before Dad got stationed in San Diego. On a visit recently to see my relatives my Uncle took me to a spot overlooking Greenock and the Clyde and showed me the pier my Dads liberty boat would come over to. The pier was almost gone, but I remember telling him, I'm glad that pier was here and not the next town over! Dad died in 79' from cancer, left my Mom with 5 kids, she was a tough old Scottish woman, but I love her for being so strong for us! Thanks for posting the video.
I think he may be featured in the new edition of the book i bought over in Dunoon by a local lady
Hi i work for seatruim as of this day we are taking whatever is good inside the dry dock it's going into demolition.god bless you and your family
Hello, fellow Brat. My dad was on the USS Simon Lake A-33, and we lived in Gourock from 66-68 across from the Clyde. I am the youngest and went to primary school there, took highland fling and sword dancing lessons, and appeared to be a typical Scottish lassie. ❤
My best friend Dorothy's father was the Cloch lighthouse keeper, and I have fond memories of my times there with her.
Thank you for this post.
@@colintravellerHi, what's the name of the book?
@@crebeccastewart3910 The American Years: Dunoon and the U.S. Navy by Andrene Messersmith (new vesion out)
I was on the Simon Lake for two years in Holy Loch. The Scottish people are the best there is. Years later, when I worked in Hollywood as an actor/ screenwriter, I wrote a film script on the wonderful times I had in Scotland, and the charming people I met..
Great video. Wonderful music..
@A&B, Many thanks for the thoughtful heart.
USS HOLLAND AS-32 77-79 S-4 DIV, first duty after A school, couldn't have a better duty station, loved my time there, people and country will cherish that time of my life forever
USS HUNLEY AS31, I reported for duty as an E-2 electricians mate in February 1966. We were only there another 5 or 6 months and the Simon Lake came and took our place. I was 18 and couldn’t believe where I was. Not in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would get to visit this beautiful place and meet such wonderful people. Frank Applegate EM3, 1965-1968.on the AS-31 the whole time.
Hi there, my dad's ship the USS Simon Lake A-33 came after you.
I was young, 1st & 2nd grade, and Scotland is keeping embedded in me. ❤
I was there on the Dry Dock part of 62, all of 63 and part of 64. Jerry lambertson en3, ran the boat shop with Sam Mormando under Chief Pepe. A lot of memories.
Served on Simon Lake December 1988 to Jan 1991 in R-1 Division, 56a Pipe Shop. Great place to be. Loved being there even though the workload could be overwhelming at times. Great job with the video.
My husband was on a sub that was refitted in Holy Loch. I am a military brat but my dad served in Vietnam but I love looking at photos of the area where my spouse was docked while in service.
I served there December 1980 until December 1984. Drove the liberty boats. Great memories
Saw many a sailor get sick on those boats coming back at night from Dunoon.
Hunley 81-83ish. Rubber and Plastics shop. Someone mentioned it was the hardest working site in the Navy. That’s the first time I’ve heard that before, but I believe it. My shop was always busy, but I know the R1 guys were 12 on 12 off 365… I always wanted to tell the locals how much I appreciated them putting up with us. We were a lot…. I visited Dunoon and Sandbank few years ago and it’s still beautiful. A lot of memories hard work, and hard play…
My dad, CPO Clay Bailey, was one of the first. He helped set up and ran the Navy Exchange and Enlisted Men's Club from '61 to some time in '63. We came over in '62. Those times were some of my happiest childhood memories. I am still communicating with a friend from Sandbank Primary.
Hi there, fellow Brat,
I went to primary school 1st & 2nd grade in Gourock. Some of my best childhood memories, too. ❤
I served aboard the USS Canopus AS 34 from 71-73 in Holy Loch.I was an E2 shipfitter nuclear welder in R-1 division. We worked some crazy around the clock hours on all the boats alongside and in the dry dock. My twin brother served with me doing the very same. This video was awesome! It brings back great memories of some hard work. We did everything from ship alterations, piping repairs in the reactor compartments, poppet seat replacements in turbine chests to full battery replacements on the boats! Just a great video for someone who was there!
Come back anytime
My grandfather William Jones (Bill) was on the Canopus between (1969-73) I believe.
@@Kal-ir9ze I do watch this video quite often. It is well done and takes me to a sweet spot of reflections every time! The music nails it!
My dad was stationed there in the late 80's where he met my mom. My twin brother and I were born in Greenock. Loved visiting Dunoon with my parents in 2012. Great memories. Thank you for this video.
I didn't care much for the Navy but.. It was an honor to serve with all of you at Holy Loch. Great guys doing important work and doing it well.
1970-71 aboard the SSBN602 Gold Crew; one of very few USNR called up to serve. Best memories were starboard watch heading out to patrol, early afternoon, flanked by Russian trawlers, then sliding down the ladder when the order to dive came through the MC. Great memories of Glasgow liberty, Scottish ice cream, the rosey cheeked children, Prestwick Airport, the
ferry over to Greenock, and of course the pubs in Dunoon. CO was JD Leonard, COB was Honeysett, and shout out to any
of the living still around . . . Hugo, Herb Zimmerman, Jody the torpedoman, Flood, my fellow grunt, Bill Thompson,
Teddy Evans, Lt. Ball, and Tony Sohr. Bunked adjacent to "pot alley" and mess cooked first patrol, ran the ships laundry second patrol. Took the Zumwalt early out and went back to civilian life. Loved the early summer sunrise, late sunset,
and modified daylight for the winter season. AS34 Canopus missile room fire casualty while out on patrol.
Diver aboard the USS Holland AS-32 from 1975 - 1977. Great memories of the people and the town. Had a flat up at the top of Mary St. Many pints and much laughter at Berts, John Paul Jones and the EM club. Well done on the video.
Thank you USA
Thank you for putting this together and sharing it.
My dad served at the Holy loch site late 70's i think, his name is Tony Lytle and was a hull technician but im unsure of rank or which ship he served on. We lived in (a married quarters i think) in Dunoon at the time and my younger brother was born there too but its fascinating to see these images. In later life i grew up to serve in the uk navy for 6 years, must have been in my blood lol. Great video 👍
Very nice! My Dad served there twice. The first time was in 66. Married my Mum - she was from Glasgow - and I was born 9 months and two weeks later. The second tour was from 77 to 80 on the Holland. S3 Div. My brother was born in 78. I went back in 89 for a month to visit my Grandparents, Mum, and my Brother. I got to spend a few days in Dunoon and had a blast visiting old haunts. Thanks for the video.
great video thx, i toured around the base in early 80s, nana took me around it on a small tour ferry, never forget the sight of a massive sub out water, thankyou America for protecting the world keeping it free. thx to all u service men woman.
My Dad Larry (Lawrence) Zwolinski was on the Proteus and served in the Navy from 59-63. He was in New London, almost in the Cuban Missile Crisis, and stationed in Scotland. He would have been 82 on 4/24/2023. He passed away 11/17/22. He loved the navy and talked about Scotland all the time!
Our thanks to your dad
Was stationed there aboard the USS Holland AS32 from 1980 to she went back to Charleston. My son was born there. Hope to go visit on day.
Always welcome back.
My dad is the one standing in front of the mini car.. its brought some good memories back to him all them years ago and he still remembers his registration plate on his car and a photo being taken. My big brother was on boat operations..
@Ray Lyall All Submariners remember our times at Sea, especially during the Cold War. We’d all do it again if we could.
@Sensei Raven thank you for you service sir
@@raylyall2195 Thanks, but really no reason to thank me or any of us who were just doing what we loved to do - being away from family 300+ days a year, 0 contact at sea, going to the places we did (but not really if asked)etc. I think the best part of being a Qualified Submariner is that you’re literally working with the other Top 2% in the Navy numbskulls like yourself. It’s something you really don’t appreciate as much as you should - until you get out of the Navy and are suddenly working with absolute bozos, wondering why you ever left the Navy & the Submarine Force.
Did you ever get to spend time/live in Dunoon?🤔
Served on the USS Holland from 79-82 marine detachment. Great times even when the wind blew me off the road on my motorcycle. Riding with that big carrot suit. A Navy man gave me.
Was aboard the Hunley in Charleston in early 70. Canopus picked a bunch of us up and sailed to Holy Loch Scotland. Was the best time in my life there. Wish i would have stayed
Served on the Canopus AS-34 in Charleston SC and USS Alexander Hamilton SSBN 617 in the Loch. Great memories of my time there.
Every once in awhile I come back to this video to t reflect and reboot. It was a lifetime ago but an indelible imprint in all that has shaped my life. To be young, part of something far bigger than yourself, and to be given the training and responsibilities that only now I fully understand the size of, makes being a veteran the one thing I am most proud of!
Great job! I was on board the Holland with my brother 1976 to 1980. Thanks for the memories.
Four deterrent patrols out of Holy Loch in the late '70s. Joining the locals in Sandbank at lawn bowls. Pints of Tennants at Bert's and fish & chips in a shop on Argyll Street in Dunoon. A really tight band out of Glasgow (Dead Skunk Band?). Somehow I only remember the good stuff.
Some nice shots here, what a load of memories. My mum was from Greenock and it was my dream to get to Scotland. When I found out we had a base in Scotland it was game on! I got to meet most of my mum's relatives and a lot of other nice Scot people. The work during docking was long and tiresome, but we did get a ribbon for it. Some great guys on the dock during 77-78, see you on the AFDB 7 page!
I was stationed aboard the USS Los Alamos AFDB-7 for 18 months in 1981-1982. It was a great time for a single 19 year old. Lots of trips to Glasgow and London. I had a flat in Greenock for about 6 months.
I was on the USS Hunley (AS-31) from 81-83 and served in S-1 Division. My wife was with me plus our son was born at Dunoon Hospital. I was lucky as we had a Change of Homeport and Uncle Sam shipped our car over so we got to travel around.
Do you know
Mitch Sweep he was on board Hunley AS 31 W4 ?
@@369-wo
I might have... I knew a couple of guys in those divisions. But names I can't remember.
That small town, was the size of a city even in those days.
It should be remembered that it was one of the biggest ship yards ever, Browns shipyard built many of the huge ships.
I served there too only for the U.K. navy in Faslane that had a floating dock and the Maidstone depot ship.
I was part of a special diving team there and actually went to Holy lock on a few occasions to dive, i spent two years there.
I served on the Hunley from the summer of '86 - '87. I recall a military magazine that featured Holy Loch on the cover with the title, "The Hardest Working Site in the Navy.'
I came aboard the Hunley in Sept. 86 and left with her headed for Norfolk.
@@elijah2078 What department were you in?
@@mariopalos9238 Disbursing. I might have had your pay record. ????
I was there with you aft engine room and it was the hardest working ship in the navy. Be well shipmate
great video great music , great memories , great times at PJ's Thank you
USS Simon Lake AS-33 1988-1990. Heartbreaking. Thank you.
I was stationed at a Navy Weapons Facility on RAF Machrihanish, a bit to the south of Holy Loch as the medical department representative. I made weekly visits to the clinic at Holy Loch to get my patients seen by doctors and dentists as needed. I was there from 1991-1993 at which time I retired with 26 years and returned to my home state of Minnesota.
I was there from '73-75. Did a lot of skydiving up north of there ........... Great times. Learned how to properly drink Scotch Whiskey from the Locals and which brands were o.k. and which were their cheap export.......😆😅...... I regret not exploring my Scottish Heritage more but I did get out away from the ship and enjoyed the countryside. During some of the storms the wind meter was switched off when it hit 80 knots & higher. The subs tied alongside would bob up and down and no one could get on or off them till the wind subsided a bit. This was my second ship and was used to being the FOREIGNER but some of the less experienced sailors couldn't get over it. Such a shame. I had fun wished that I could have gone back.
My old man loved Holy Loch!!! He served on the Nathanael Greene 75-80. Heard plenty of stories about the fun those knuckleheads had. RMCM Hank Jusko
Served on the Canopus AS-34 73-75 A-div small boats so I saw Ardnadam Pier quite a few times in every kind of weather imaginable...I sure miss the beauty of my ancestral home and the trip from the pier to Dunoon for some meat pies or fish and chips which I've never lost my craving for...Spent a lot of time at Sinbads in Dunoon since they had mastered Singapore Slings...I miss the ferry ride to catch a train to Glasgow and then a weekend stay in Edinburgh for visits through the castle...I could go on and on...I hope to return to the land that is tucked away in my dreams for I will always miss you!
As a crew member on the "Billy Bates" SSN-680, (1973-1977) there were a number of occasions we needed the services this place offered. As I recall, it was all serious business. Dunoon was my first introduction to local fast food, "fish and chips", warm and perfect . . . ! I imagine the locals were glad to see the base leave, but I for one, was captivated by the "magic" this place radiated. Thank you for the trip down memory lane.
👏👏👏👏👏
I was an Opticalman 2nd Class on the Proteus from 1962 until she returned to the US. Best time i've ever had. I'm now 81 years old and think about that experience often. Last year (2023) i took my wife to Scotland for ten days. Stayed at an old hotel in Greenock. We rented a car and revisited all my favorite places. Took the ferry across from Gourock to (close to) Dunoon. Visited ardanadem (sp) pier, ate lots of fish and chips and fell in love all over again with the wonderful people. Boy, was i lucky to have lived then !
I was stationed aboard the USS Proteus AS-19 over in Guam from 88-91. It was nice to pics of the Old Pro from there. My wife’s uncle Roger Brown was stationed aboard the USS Woodrow Wilson SSBN-624. He retired from the Navy. We would talk for hours about our time in the Navy and when anyone would enter the room we would stop talking. Sadly he passed some years ago. Thank you for the memories.
Wow... Thank you. I was on one of the last subs to leave Squadron 14 out of Holy Loch, USS Ulysses S Grant. I hope to go back there some day. Thank you for all the people in Dunoon and the surrounding communities.... I miss the friendships.
I opted for Pearl Harbor and Guam and regret it. I got so tired of 80-degree sunny days and only summer. Give me seasons and gray, scudding clouds any day! I've always wondered what Holy Loch looked like and you've done that for me with your fine video! I served 4 years as electrician on the Daniel Webster blue crew, '69 to '73. Thanks for doing this great video!
Hey, Walt. David Merriman. Same boat. Same crew. Same time. The PigFish still lives!
Nice video , brought back some memories , USS Canopus AS34 , shop 38 , from sept 73 till got out in july 76 , rode her back to the states spent last few months in dry dock in Charleston
Made seven patrols out of Holy Loch aboard USS Ethan Allen, 1963 - 1966.
First long walk down that pier was summer of 1987 to the USS Lafayette (SSBN 616). Last trip down that pier was the day we started bombing Bagdad in 1991 leaving the USS James K Polk (SSBN645) for the final time.
Was on the Will Rogers Gold Crew from '90 through decom in '93- IIRC, the WR Blue Crew was the last boat out of Holy Loch.
Chose AS-33 out of A-School, in December '90. Came aboard with Capt. Riffer, so I had already started my tour on the Lake in good fashion. But it didn't make a difference when when I got busted for underage drinking when we went to the shipyards in 92? I think. Got 45/45.. any way , what was the Will Rogers gold you were with?
@@darrenfrazier4643 WR Gold Crew- SSBN's had two crews, Blue and Gold- rotated a 105(?) day cycle-
Nice photos and music!!! I remember that place well - I was there on USS George Marshall and USS George Washington.
I went through boot camp with a guy from VA who went to the Washington. That would have been around 1969. His name George and I've forgotten how to spell his last name Mingike of something like that.
Three trips onboard Robert E Lee SSBN 601. Holy Loch wasn't fun but I have fomd meomeries of the wonderful Scots I got to meet.
I served on on the Hunley for 2 years in Scotland until the Simon Lake relieved us and was actually fortunate enough to sail her home. We rebuilt her in Newport then the government decided to sink her. Part of my soul lies with her. This video is recognizable to me. God bless the AS-31 and all of it’s crews
Great photos. thanks for sharing
My dad worked in Dunoon in the 70s he was given a subron 14 zippo witch I now have 😊
This brought back lots of memories. SSBN 619 G, 85 -87
616, '78 - '80
I worked on your boat sir!!
I served on SSNB 626. Such fond memories of Holy Loch.
Very Nice Video, Thanks. There during several upkeep periods aboard USS George Bancroft (SSBN-643) Blue -- 1966-1968, some very fine remembrances. Limited off-duty "liberty" periods, but fondly remember the Crown Hotel and Argyll Hotel liquid refreshment rooms, at Dunoon, Scotland. Who can recall what a "day-tripper" is?
Great video, thank you very much.
My brother in law Ronnie Clarkson used to collect garbage from the Huntley.
Toward lass wee puffer went up and down the holy loch.
I was with him few times sadly Ronnie Clarkson has died like so many of the American sailors who worked on the submarines.
Quite a few stayed in Scotland when the navy left.
Dunoon and gourock was full of sailors and Marines great guy's.
Hi,Danny Pat Creen here remember Ronnie well I worked at Fairlie and Sandbank 1984/1992 great place was a store keeper at both facilities really miss it take care Danny ygt😂
@@Ivc406 lm frank Danny's brother l have heard your name pat only people who know gibshill write ygt
@@Ivc406 unfortunately Ronnie Clarkson died few years ago as did his wife Sadie our sister
I don't remember, but it might have been Ronnie. I would stop and talk to him. I remember the day the guys almost sank the puffer. We had a big inspection coming and we were told to clean up the helo deck. Some one had stored the head of an 6 110 engine up there. The heads were big and heavy. I went up and checked to make sure the stuff I had to look after was secure. I turned just in time to see six guys toss the head over the side. There was loud crash. I looked over the side and the was a geyser of water in the Puffer. The head landed straight up and down. The damage control team got the flooding under control. The Puffer went to one of the yards and they patched her.
@@Canopus68 I was on the vital spark para Handy few year's ago.
The engineer skipper gave me and my son tour of the ship.
Spotless and sort of puffer you could live on for lifetime.
It was used for the TV screen para Handy.
We spent 2 hours on the ship guy knew my brother in-law Ronnie.
This was down at the Victoria harbour Greenock across from the fire station.
A blast from the past! I did my first two refits there in '78 on Lewis & Clark. I didn't get to see much though. Liberty is pretty poor when you're in "M" Division.....too many wrenches to pull!
Hey Danny, I was ET-RO on the Lost and Confused (blue) from '77 until crew consolidation in May '81.
@@imwithmikeb Hey Mikey!! Sure I remember you. Where you been? I'm in Louisiana.....retired for 5 years. Ron Johnson is the only one I've kept up with all these years. He did his time out at Comanche Peak...now retired.
@@imwithmikeb I'm trying to figure a way around the hyperlink filter. On AOL, I'm n53dw.
Great tribute and photos.
What a fantastic collection of memories.
I was stationed on the Hunley Jan -June 1971, Charleston, then transferred to George C Ma rshall. June 1971 and made my first patrol from Holy Loch. Neat location.
Served 20 years in the SSBN fleet. Started operating out of Rota, Spain. Later Kings Bay Georgia and then finally Bangor, Washington. Wish I had got to Holy Loch. Question: Seeing how the tender and drydock was anchored out in the middle of the Loch, how was electrical power managed? Did the tender remain continually "steaming" or were there shore power hook ups? Can't imagine having to boat ride into work everyday.
The tender had several big DGs to support the boats.
The Dock had its own diesel power
Many from Portsmouth Navel Shipyard were sent TDY here.
Absolutely beautiful!.
Great memories of the Dunoon area when the Navy was there (USS Hunley in the early 80s).
Holy Loch, Scotland USS John Adams SSBN 620 - 1976 The heather was in bloom. Impressed by how green everything was in Scotland and the fish and chips in Glasgow were great.
Love this. Thanks
That was beautiful… brought tears to me eyes
Did 5 patrols on John Adams from Holy Locke. Plenty of memories from there and Dunoon
I was on USS Henry Clay Gold crew from 82-86. Made 8 patrols out of Holy Loch, including an ERP in the middle of the winter. That was pretty miserable.
Hey guys. I served there. With the Holland, '31 and the Hunley '31. And later on the Fulton, AS -11, off Sardinia. Kept the pressure on Gorbachev. Let's go guys. We did our part in ' tearing down that wall'. What you do with it now, go figure.
I was on the Greenling attached to SUBRON 10 / AS-11 in '80 & '81. My uncle was a Fulton plank owner and was on board for the shakedown cruise when Pearl Harbor was attacked.
Proteus 1981-1982 Guam. I recall the countless hours repairing those old and tired B&A cranes.
I loved being stationed there. Miss those fish & chips
AS-37 USS Dixon Pt Loma San Diego 4 yrs. great vid. new Sub
I saw one of the photographs that I took, in this video. USS Simon Lake AS-33 time stamp 5:15
If I have the numbers right, Kerry would have joined the Hunley in 1981 or 1982. As far as I know he was on her when she was in Guam. To bad in a way, being half Irish I think would have appreciated the opportunity to learn about Scotland firsthand. That man loved learning about everything! God bless you all!
Served on the Holland "Run She Must, Shine She May" from '80-'82...accompanied her to the Yard in Charleston. Who remembers the factory in West Greenock that gave off that strong,sooty odor😆? What were they burning in there???
Hi,the factory was Pointers the correct name was British Charcoal McDonald's they made Charcoal from animal bones for filtering and such for food industry mainly sugars they were eventually part of Tate&Lyle Sugar, unfortunately both refinery and Pointers now closed regards from Scotland
I was on the Hunley AS-31 from 1979 -1981, R-5
Did 7 patrols from Holy Loch
To think a sailor in full uniform sitting on Castle Hill was a completely normal thing for me growing up. Would look right out of place now.
Will Gerhart, was stationed there 1972/73. Anyone know him?
Yes he was married to my best friend Nancy who passed away he is living in Goose creek south Carolina regards Cathie Shambach from Greenock 9:07
88-89 625G. The hangover still hurts...
Never sobered up enough to get a hangover
AS34 son of WT Jones here.
Made two patrols out of there in 1969 on the USS Patrick Henry SSBN-599G
You might know my dad then. I don’t recall if he was gold or blue. His name is Don. He was QM2(SS) and was on the boat from 68-72.
USSbN 619 good boat , good times
Rayburn 635B
Gold crew 82-85 MM1/ELT / 7 patrols Great video brought back many memories. Looking forward to heading back with the Mrs to tour all of Scotland. Any recommendations for visiting the Dunoon area? Lodging, car rental options, travel by rail, etc. Thanks Brothers!
I was Crew of Stonewall Jackson ssbn 634 1979
Oh yes had fun in dunoon lost my zippy and my boom box over the side right in the lock
I remember doing late lifts
Is the Warrant Officer seen in the center of the frame at 2:02 John Walker or is it just someone who just looks similar to that traitorous SOB?
Would like to know:"What song and singer is that that plays last in this memory montage? Starts about 6 minute mark. Which singer? Song seems to be: " Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)" ua-cam.com/video/6PqZLwlPlHA/v-deo.html and/or ua-cam.com/video/eLqTZ07ja7g/v-deo.html
"Song to the Siren" by Rose Betts
@@ABPhotography1 Thank you. ua-cam.com/video/6tqRMuTrZcM/v-deo.html
Song written by Tim Buckley but also recorded by This Mortal Coil and Bryan Ferry. Stunning song.
@@jimmcintosh9045 Thanks.
My father told me the painted a big red L on a white canvas and tied it to the back of the ship when they were training sailors how to drive the ship the captain was fucking pissed. Then the captain told them to paint the ship in the rain my father told the captain it cant be done the admiral was coming for inspection the captain told my father to use rags to dry the surface then paint again the captain was pissed he yelled what the fuck happened to my ship my father yelled out of the porthole "I TOLD YOU IT WOULDNT WORK" my father boatswain mate Boyer was on the captains shit list for a while
Request permission to come aboard sir
Granted
SSBB-635(B)… 1981-1983.
My father was the docking master.. I remember be on that amazing floating dry dock
..611g great local folks. But I'll pass. On the Hagis,,!,
But the video doesn't answer the most important question: Feri's or Anselmo's for fish and chips. I was a fan of Fer's myself. I was there for refits on USS Andrew Jackson and USS James Monroe.
I was a Ferry’s Fish & Chip guy because I couldn’t make it past all the pubs to make it to Anselmo’s
I'm finding this is hard to watch, now . . .
road 619 gold from 1980 to 83. Katherine I still owe you 10 pounds!