Tell your Cogswell story to Don Clasen

 

  

  I was one of the original crew that took the Cogswell out of mothballs in Charleston, S.C. in 1951. I attained the rank of YN3 before  joining ComDesLant aboard the Yosemite in Newport, R.I. My term was up in 1955 and I was discharged and returned to college.  Now 73, I look back at 4 years in the Navy as a terrific experience that provided me with something lacking in many young men today--discipline.
    Last August I officially retired after a career as a newspaperman. I  have worked as a reporter and editor with newspapers in my hometown of  Davenport, Iowa as well as Rock Island, Ill., Des Moines, Iowa, central Illinois and the Milwaukee area. I wound up with a terrific experience working for a suburban group in Hartland, Wis.
    Lucy and I sold our condo in Waukesha, Wis. last summer and moved to one on the North Shore of Chicago. We really love it here near the lake and where the action is. I've seen Chicago Cubs and White Sox games, a Bears' game, and Blackhawks hockey action in addition to gaining weight while dining at many great eateries. Being close to the lake enables me to walk/jog a couple of miles every day the weather isn't too bad. Like most vets, I've gained a few pounds and am no longer the slim guy that served on the Cogswell. I really need the exercise. While I haven't had time to get involved in reunions, I enjoying hearing about the old days. I'd enjoying hearing from former shipmates.
    With Wrigley Field only 4 "El" stops away, my wife and I will see a number of Cubs' games this year. Being from Iowa, I'm also involved
in University of Iowa activities and continue to serve as secretary of the Milwaukee Area I-Club. After a disappointing Hawkeye basketball
season, we'll take in most football games in Iowa City this fall. And a number of away games, too. 

 

    I have volunteered to assist the Cogswell Association with writing and editing services for our members.  If you have an interesting story relating to your adventures aboard the Cogswell just give me a call, write me a letter, or send an e-mail and I will be happy to assist with writing and editing your story.  Contributors need not be concerned about making their story journalistically correct.  I'll be glad to polish each story and return it to them to insure that everything is correct. 
 

Don Clasen

5320 N. Sheridan Rd.

No. 507

Chicago, Ill. 60640

773-561-5188

ldclasen@sbcglobal.net