Location: Seattle, WA
Date: 07/03/2012 - 07/05/2012
Chaired By: -
Highlights
Bill Holmquist – Radioman 3/c, Ray Thomas – Electricians Mate 3/c, and Bill Clifford – Gunners Mate 2/c, along with their families gathered for the Final Reunion of the USS HUTCHINS (DD-476) Association in Seattle, July 3 – 5, 2012. Also present were Dane Nickerson, son of Lewis Nickerson (deceased), an original plank man aboard the Hutchins; Colleen Timney, daughter of Frank Timney (deceased); and Larry Winchowky, son of Walt Winchowky (deceased) – Signalman 2/c.
A highlight of the event was touring the Boeing Factory and its Future of Flight exhibit, (the largest building in the world by volume!), and a preview of the company’s newest addition to its fleet, the Dreamliner 787.
On the 4th of July, the group attended the Seattle Mariners game where the USS HUTCHINSs and her crew was honored during the opening pitch ceremony. (See mlb.com; search Bill Clifford Opening pitch, for the very touching video)
The grand finale – closing day started with a ferry ride to Bremerton where the ship was decommissioned on November 23, 1945. The group conducted a memorial service from the fantail of the museum ship USS TURNER JOY, then enjoyed a banquet luncheon in the mess hall. Tom Danaher, Public Affairs Officer, and CDR Charles Grasse from the Naval Base Kitsap joined the group, and were enlightened by reminiscings from the shipmates.
Bill Clifford concluded the day with a flawless rendition of “The Battle of Surigao Straits”, one of the songs written by crew members during WWII.
Despite its bittersweet moments, the final reunion was a great success and a good time was had by all! The HUTCHINS and the service of these WWII veterans will never be forgotten! Here’s to smooth sailing for everyone! Anchors Aweigh!