The Grumman Club

Newsletter

CHAPTERS / MEETING LOCATIONS

PARENT CHAPTERBethpage / WoodburyPresident, Marion Abbott (516) 575-3777

California - Golden West / Pt. MuguPresident, Fred Syrett (805) 647-4934

California - San Diego / San DiegoPresident, Cliff Robinson, (760) 749-8183

Florida - First Coast / St. AugustinePresident, Fred Bauer (904) 819-9817

Florida - Manasota West / BradentonPresident, Burt Stern (941) 378-7082

Florida - Mid-West / Spring Hill President, Richard Arso (352) 684-0482

Florida - Southwest / Locations VaryPresident, Carolyn Moors (239-283-8294)

Florida - Spacecoast / MelbournePresident, William Steenson (321-751-3446)

Florida - Suncoast / Pinellas ParkPresident, Robert Barth (727) 397-9714

Florida - Treasure Coast / Port St. LuciePresident, Nancy Schaefer (772) 878-2295

Georgia - Peach Pit / MilledgevillePresident, Wendell Barr (478) 456-1854

Maryland - Glen Arm / BelairPresident, Frederick Kief (410) 557-7138

New England - New England North / Dorset, VTPresident, Bill Egner (802) 446-2062

New Jersey - Garden State / LakehurstPresident, Al Larsen (732) 350-1170

New York - Eastern Long Island / RiverheadPresident, Bert Moller (631) 864-4377

North Carolina - Eastern Carolina / Locations VaryPresident, Rudi Wiehl (252) 633-2254

Pennsylvania - Northeast PA / So. SterlingPresident, Charles Dowd (570) 491-2125

South Carolina - Coastal Carolinas (NC & SC) / Myrtle BeachPresident, Ronald Girardin (843) 903-7116

Texas - Houston / HoustonPresident, Angelo LaCognata (281) 326-1665

Virginia - Central Virginia / MonticelloPresident, Maryanne Muller (434) 589-5565

Virginia - Potomac / Locations VaryPresident, Ed Barron (202) 244-6808

March, 2012 Volume 45 , Issue 3 Circulation: 3872

MARY E. HARSEJuly 6, 1921 – February 17, 2011

Grumman Retiree Club President, 1993 and 1994

Mary Harse, one of the original Directors of the Grumman Retiree Club, passed away on February 17, 2012. Although the Club was organized in 1967, it did not become a Corporation in New York State until 1995. At the time of incorporation, three directors were named to oversee this new organization. They were Mary Harse, Robert Morace, and August Ripp.

Mary was Club President in 1993 and 1994, became a member of the Board of Directors in 1995, and served until 2001. She also served on the Golden Donor Blood Drive Committee. Mary was not a stranger to volunteerism: she volunteered her services to many organizations of all types in her community. She used this experience to keep the Club moving in the right direction for many years. She was a tough taskmaster, but was - and still is - revered by all who were lucky enough to know her. Rest easy Mary, you’ve earned it.

DUES DUES DUES

If you haven’t paid your 2012 dues by the end of March, this will be your last Newsletter. Please check the mail label page of this Newsletter, above your name, for verification of your membership. The name of your chapter association and the latest year for which your dues have been paid should be shown in that part of the mailing information.

Grumman History

History - Chapter One: Follow-UpThe History article in our February issue included an item about Mr. Grumman personally towing a privately owned amphibian airplane to the Baldwin garage, for repair. We have received a close-up and personal story about that “event”, as told by someone who was there, at the garage in Baldwin. See Page 15.

* * * * * * *History - Chapter Two

Preparing for War (1937–1940)

The ominous signs of war hung over the world as Grumman moved into its new building, Plant 1, in Bethpage. The Japanese were invading China and the Germans had occupied Austria and Czechoslovakia. Meanwhile, Grumman was producing the US Navy F2F and F3F bi-plane fighters. By the end of 1938, these were the front line fighters for all Marine and Navy squadrons. Twenty-four

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Scholarship Fund Contributorscontinued

North, Edward Oman, RichardPavlica, James Preiser, GustaveRiddle, Dennis Scarantino, S.Schauer, Berthold Schlegel, DonaldShaughnessy, Peter Siebert, Edward

Sison, Robert Snedecor, R.Stanziale, Anthony Steel, HerbertStrakosch, Ruth Strong, JohnTimmerman, Herbert Treubig, FredWiebold, Irene Witte, John

Wittmann, Warren Young, GeorgeZimbalatti, Anthony Zirkel, William

Grumman Retiree Club

To make Tax Deductible Donations to the Scholarship Fund, send checks (payable to Retiree Scholarship Fund) to: Scholarship Fund, PO Box 0748, Bethpage, NY, 11714-0748.

GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB NEWSLETTER(USPS # 023-096) Volume 45, Issue 3, March 2012, is published monthly except August by Grumman Retiree Club, Inc., 600 Grumman Road West, M/S Z49-25 Bethpage, NY 11714-5000. Periodical postage rates paid at Bethpage, NY. Subscriptions rates of $11 are paid through membership dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Grumman Retiree Club,

Scholarship Fund Contributors

The Scholarship Fund Directors and The Grumman Retiree Club wish all a Happy and Healthy New Year and thank the following for their November/December donations to the Fund.

Abrami, Barbara Allison, JosephAnders, Ronald Beisel, CharlesBellew, R. Berlin, NathanielBischoff, Willard Brazier, JennieCallaman, Clifton Cervellino, Lawrence Christ, Karl Clement, JoeCollorone, Peter Corrao, RichardDaly, Patrick Deissler, ArthurDesposito, Salvador Di Rocco, FrankDunton, Harlow Duplessis, Clinton

Errig, Charles Evans, RobertFawcett, James Figler, FredFrank, Roseanne Friedrichs, JohnGarlasco, Frances Gilleran, F.Goldmacher, Jerome Graff, Miriam

Gregory, Frederick Griggs, WeldingGuarino, William Hannon, GerardHaslett,Diane Hausser, BruceHaytaian, John Hemfeld, GloriaHughes, William Juengst, Stephen

Kalemaris, Stanley Keenan, CharlesKerns, Charles Lecarpentier, RobertLee, Lesley Licari, JosephMacchio, Lucy Mangino, MicaelMazik, Tessie McCaffrey, Ronald

McGrath, Catherine Meunier, WilliamMichelon, Lawrence Minerva, JeromeMirchin, Seymour Moore, ThomasMorcerf, Francis Morgenweck, RobertMunro, Robert Newman, Rita

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2012 Defensive Driving Course

The cost for the 2012 AARP Defensive Driving course in New York is $17 for AARP members and $19 for non-AARP members.

2012 schedule: 6/5, 9/4, and 11/8.Classes held in Plant 25. 8:30AM sign-in.

To register: call Liz McGowan (516-221-6573), Weekdays Only!

Call between 6PM and 9PM.Classes fill up quickly.

Check you expiration date; sign up early.

Bethpage Chapter Calendar

Membership luncheon-meetings are generally held on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

March 28 at the Milleridge InnApril 25 at the Crest Hollow CC

Lunch at Noon; Business Meeting at 1:30PM$10/Member $20/non-member

Luncheon Reservation forms are on Page 18

Bethpage ChapterFollowing a marvelous lunch at the Milleridge Inn, President Marion Abbott called the meeting to order at 1:30PM, with 125 members in attendance. Sergeant-at-Arms Barbara Major led the Pledge of Allegiance. The President called for a moment of silence for deceased members, including the Past President Mary Harse (President 1993-1994) and for our Armed Forces throughout the world.

Marion offered a few corrections to the February Newsletter: Bob Smyth’s name was misspelled on the first page, and our next meeting will be March 28, not March 21. No other corrections to the notes were offered, and they were accepted as published.

Bob Ripp reported that the Grumman Pension Plan Cola CPI of 3.0% will be in effect beginning April 1, 2012 and will be used through March 1, 2013

2012 All-Chapter Scholarship Awards Program

Scholarship Awards applications are available at all regular meetings. Applications can also be obtained by sending a self addressed envelope to Scholarship Fund, PO Box 0748, Bethpage, NY, 11714-0748. Copies are available on the Club website.

The Scholarship Program is available to all GRC members’ descendants. You - the member - must provide the Application and the encouragement to your eligible graduating grand & great-grand students. Obtain an application and let them decide if they meet the eligibility requirement.

Membership contributions are the Engine that allows the Scholarship Award Program to be a continuing Program for all Members.

All donations for the Scholarship Program are Tax Deductible. Every little bit counts and it all adds up!***************************************************

2012 SCHOLARSHIP 50/50 RAFFLEMembers of All Chapters May Participate!

Enter often. Max prize: $500 for any one person, in any one drawing. Multiple winners possible. Winners announced in the Newsletter, after each quarterly drawing.

Send a filled-in raffle ticket (below) and a check (payable to Grumman Retiree Club Scholarship Fund), to the address above. Each raffle entry is $5. (Please indicate how many raffles you are purchasing.)

Everyone has a chance to win. This Raffle benefits the Scholarship Fund only.

2012 Scholarship ProgramSCHOLARSHIP 50/50 RAFFLE TICKET

_______________________________________ Name ______________________________________ Address

Town ______________State ____ Zip_______

Phone (optional) _____________________

Number of Raffles Purchased _____

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Guest SpeakerFirst VP Bob Ripp introduced guest speaker Joe Wilkers, who presently serves as Director of Architectural & Advanced Concepts, Information Operations & Electronic Attack, at Northrop Grumman in Bethpage. Joe is the cognizant Northrop Grumman contact who worked with Past President Barbara Nilsen for the acquisition of the F-14 that is on display in front of Plant 25. Joe presently is working with President Marion Abbott to acquire an EA-6B for display alongside the F-14.

Joe has an impeccable resume, starting with a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Virginia Tech and a master’s degree from the Polytechnic institute of Brooklyn earned as a Masters Fellow at Grumman. He also graduated from Northrop Grumman’s UCLA Executive Marketing Program management classes and the Defense Acquisition University’s Advanced Program Management course. These academic achievements enhance a Naval Aviation background, which includes 800 flight hours and 287 carrier arrested landings (91 at night) in an F-14A as a Radar Intercept Officer (the rear seater), flying off the USS Saratoga and the USS John F. Kennedy. During this period he had several harrowing tactical operations that included hostile MIG-23, MIG -25, Soviet bomber intercepts, and strikes against SAM missile sites. Joe has also had flights in the E-2C, C-2, EA-6B and A-6E.

Joe thanked Grumman and specifically the Grumman retirees for all the great naval aircraft that were designed and built here at Grumman. His experiences in the F-14 were notable and that’s why he was so enthusiastic to acquire the F-14 that now stands by Plant 25. He explained to the audience that the Navy cannot provide aircraft to “for profit” corporations and that’s why Barbara Nilsen, who was Club President at the time of acquisition, had the Club, a “not for profit” organization, take ownership of the plane for administrative purposes. Joe stated he and present club President, Marion Abbott, working together have acquired an EA-6B that ultimately will be on display close to the F-14. The F-14 is currently at the Air Power Museum at Republic Airport and has been demilitarized. However, the EA-6B is not anticipated to be ready for display until the spring of 2013.

Joe treated us to a history of the EA-6 family of planes that have been the only Navy Tactical Electronic Jamming aircraft. Their successful operations so impressed the Air Force that they had Grumman build the EF-111 tactical jamming aircraft for them. Joe said that recently the U.S. celebrated 100 years of Naval Aviation, and since the EA-6A had its maiden flight in 1960, it has been active for more than half of the lifetime of all Naval involvement with aircraft. Moreover, even though the Navy has retired the Prowler EA-6B and reverted to a Growler EA-18, the US Marines will continue to fly the EA-6B for many more years, a tribute to Grumman. Joe and Marion will keep the Club advised as to the progress of the display aircraft through to full site installation. At the conclusion of this fascinating discussion, Joe was presented with a memento of the Retiree Club.

Committee Reports- Scholarship Fund Report - The Scholarship Fund Treasurer’s report was read by Harry Daum and was accepted as read.- Scholarship Luncheon- Betty Bohlander reported that the Scholarship Luncheon will be held at the Crest Hollow on June 27. Full details will be available shortly.- Travel - Nick Bazzicalupo, Prime Time Travel, presented some future trips for club members.

Sing Along- Jack Cottrell and his magic keyboard provided the background to a lively group sing along.

New Business• Marion read excerpts from an article from the Financial Industry Regulator, which issued a warning on Senior Designations - the authoritative titles used by many financial planners when marketing themselves to Seniors. Titles like “Certified Senior Advisor” or “Certified Retirement Counselor” are designations obtained by merely attending a hotel seminar and often don’t even require a high school or college diploma. The use of these designations has become so widespread that now the brokerage industry’s regulator, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), has issued a warning regarding their use. They say to stay away from the following titles: “Certified Senior Advisor”, “Certified Retirement Counselor”, “Registered Financial Gerontologist” and “Certified Retirement Financial Advisor”. Do look for: “Certified Financial Planner”, “Chartered

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Financial Consultant” or a “Master of Science in Financial Services,” all of which require degree college programs to achieve. FINRA also advises to ask for references and check with the Better Business Bureau.• Bristal Assisted Living in East Northport has been conducting a Caregiver Support Group, given by the Jewish Association Serving the Aging. Meetings are planned for March 6, April 3, May 8, and June 5, from 6-7 PM• Farmingdale Lanes will present “The Senior Expo” on March 21, 10AM to 2PM. The expo will include free bowling, free use of bowling equipment, bowling instructions, and refreshments. You also will have an opportunity to visit with businesses that cater to the senior marketplace, to witness the presentation of the “Farmingdale Lanes Century Award” to one of the oldest and longest active senior bowlers and to hear a presentation on “Managing Your Assets During Your Senior Years”. RSVP to 631-249-4300.• A “Thank You” letter was received from Jennifer Sumner, Education Coordinator of the Cradle of Aviation in Garden City. She thanked the Club for our $500 donation for trophies to be awarded at their Bottle Rocket Competition on June 2. All Club members are invited to the competition as a spectator or to volunteer to be a judge. If you would like to participate at the event, please advise Marion.• As part of the Cradle of Aviation’s “Legends of Air & Space” Lecture Series, they are presenting “An Evening with Space Shuttle Astronaut Ron Garan,” on March 13, at 7:30 PM. Ron was the Flight Engineer on mission STS-124 in 2008, a trip to the International Space Station (ISS). His 2nd space mission to the ISS was a launch from the Russian launch site in a Soyuz spacecraft. Combined, he has more than 178 days in space and 27 hours of spacewalks. The event is FREE but, because seating is limited, reservations are required. Call 516-572-4066 for reservations.• We have been contacted by a representative of NHK, the national public broadcasting station of Japan. NHK is planning an edition of a science documentary on the Apollo program and the lunar lander. They would like to conduct interviews with two or three engineers and/or administrators who were on the Apollo program and who might have interesting “inside stories” to share with the program.

The NHK writer saw a Ron Kerr comment in our July 2011 Newsletter on-line, detailing Ron’s contingent mission to build an LM Guidance Computer within a month of the Apollo 11 launch, saving the timing of the launch date. NHK would like stories like that to enhance their program. Interested individuals should contact Marion as soon as possible as NHK is looking at April, if not late March, when a camera crew from Japan will travel across America for three weeks to compile stories.• Barbara Nilsen, current Chairperson of the CareCats, has stepped down. Marion is seeking a volunteer to step up to the plate as Chairperson. Remember: the CareCats fulfill the needs of many organizational events when the need arises.• Dues are due by the end of the March. Members who have not paid 2012 dues by the end of March will not receive any more Newsletters.

Next Meeting: March 28, at the Milleridge Inn [not March 21, as stated in the February Newsletter]. The Reservation coupon (in the Newsletter) is due by March 21.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made, seconded and the meeting was adjourned at 3 PM with the singing of God Bless America.

By: Lou Kubat, Secy.

*********************************************************CALIFORNIA / Golden West

President Fred Syrett opened the meeting at Noon, leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Vice President John Torkelsen led a prayer for our country, our service members, and our own members who are ill or have had family losses.

Twenty members enjoyed the good food and accommodations provided by our new meeting place, the “Fraternal Order of Eagles” in Oxnard.

The program was presented by Golden West Members Tom Reilly and Craig Kaston. Their subject was the F-14 program at Naval Air Station, Point Mugu, California. The first F-14 arrived at Point Mugu in 1970 for development and testing under Navy scrutiny. The program started with the

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testing of the Phoenix, Sparrow, and Sidewinder missiles as air-to-air weapons. The last eight years of the program was devoted to the development of the air-to-ground capability. Project Engineer Tom Reilly played a large part in the air-to-ground development and showed us many interesting pictures of weapons, which became more important to the mission of the Tomcat. The need for air-to-ground capability increased as the need for air-to-air because of the reduced threat from enemy aircraft. Tom referred to this later version of the airplane as the F-14 Bomb Cat.

Tom and Craig also gave an update on what we know of the 79 F-14’s delivered to Iran starting in 1975. Some sources claim there may be 60 Tomcats still flying, with Russia possibly providing engineering and parts support to Iran.

It was a great program by Tom and Craig, with many startling facts revealed. The Tomcat continues to be a most interesting topic, especially for those who worked on it.

Of local note, the county Chamber of Commerce named our member Herb Holler as Senior Volunteer of the Year. Herb has always been one to take on responsibilities in a cheerful and capable manner and deserves the recognition.

Next Meeting: March 13, at 11AM, at “Fraternal Order of Eagles” building in Oxnard.

Following Meeting: 4/13 (2nd Tues.)

By: Paul Aanerud, Sec’y, and John Torkelsen, V.P.

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CALIFORNIA / San Diego

No activity in FebruaryOur 2012 meeting schedule

03/01 (Thurs.) lunch at Filippi’s in Mira Mesa05/24 (Thurs.) lunch at the 94th Aerosquadron09/29 (Sat.) annual picnic at MCAS Miramar12/14 (Fri.) Holiday luncheon at the 94th Aerosquadron

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FLORIDA/ First Coast Twenty-eight members attended our February 21 meeting at the New Century Buffet. President Fred Bauer opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, which was followed by a prayer by chaplain Janet Cassford.

Fred announced there was no new correspondence. He mentioned some recent health problems that members Lloyd Gilespie and Jim McDonald had to deal with. We were glad to know they are much better and happy that both were present.

Don Kowalski had arranged for a guest speaker; however, the speaker could not attend and hopes to join us next meeting on March 20 at this location.

Remember: we will have our spring picnic at Treaty Park, in St. Augustine, on May 15, with the usual faire.

We had a short discussion about difficulties concerning Vietnam Veteran’s benefits. Anyone who can help us get a VA representative to speak with us as a group or help our vets with information would be most appreciated and welcome. If you are a member of another chapter reading this, and can help, please get in touch.

Birthdays: Audrey Umbach, William Lainhart, Augie Kubart, Josephine Soldt, Donald Schroeder, and Betty Rosone.

Anniversaries: Mary & Lloyd Gilespie, and Fran & George Deangelis.

Treasurer Bob Rathje reports 69 paid memberships for 2012 and hopes to receive a few more $15 dues from latecomers. Please remit to Bob Rathje, 11046 Castlemain Circle East, Jacksonville, FL 32256 ASAP. Otherwise, mail directly to New York HQ after March 1.

There were five 50/50 winners

By: Steve Cacace sremkkc@comcast.net

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February Birthdays: Marie King. Congratulations, Marie!

There were no anniversaries for February. Citrus County Sunshine Chairman Gus Krayer told us that no one was sick.

Hernando County Sunshine Chairman Bea Hall told us that no one was sick.

This is great news! The president introduced guest speaker Laura Gamby, who spoke about quality of care and patients rights. Laura was very knowledgeable and told us many things to look for when we need care and also about patients’ rights. Several members asked questions about the rights of patients and what you could do to help yourself with these matters. If you need help of any kind, Laura is there to help you. Her phone number is 813-865-3351. We had nine 50/50 Winners. Next Meeting: March 15, 11:30AM, at Buffet City, Route 50 in Brooksville. Please mail your checks [payable to Grumman Retiree Club] to Hank Mehl, 11059 Heathrow Ave., Spring Hill, FL 34609.

Please try to attend our meetings, which are about good friends, good food, and lots of fun things to do. Our March entertainment will be the Sunset Harmonizers. There will be four men singing for us.

By: Joan Mehl, Sec’y. hmehl@tampabay.rr.com

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FLORIDA / South West

No activity in February

Next Meeting: March 13, 2012, at Golden Corral, Punta Gorda, FL. Please arrive at 11:45AM with meeting opening and lunch Noon.

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FLORIDA / Manasota West

Our February 15, 2012 meeting was opened by President Burt Stern, with the pledge to the flag. There were 13 members, two visitors and two speakers present. Our visitors were Bob and Ann Moncsko from North Carolina.

As promised last month, Patrick Mackey of Merrill Lynch shared information relative to estate planning. Following that presentation, we enjoyed a conversation with Nick Nicolai, a retired Air Force test pilot. Of course, our own Grumman members like to add their own Grumman stories, also.

It should be noted that Burt Stern looked a bit beat up after taking a fall on his face recently. Fortunately, he did not break anything. Nancy Winding and Ted Martines were also missing, Nancy still in rehab with a new knee replacement and Ted who underwent serious shoulder surgery. Hopefully, we’ll all be in better shape by next month.

50/50 Club winners: Bob Nyberg and Richard Palmer.

As always, we invite retiree, to join us for lunch at Noon at Pier 22 Restaurant, located on the beautiful Bradenton River, in Bradenton, FL. We normally meet on the 3rd Wed. of each month, except in December, when we meet on the 2nd Wed.

By: Nancy Winding (941-355-7888) nanwinding@comcast.net

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FLORIDA/ Mid-West

President Richard Arso opened the February meeting with 29 members and three guests (Ethel Gross, Ginny Sidebothan, and Ray Miller) present. Chaplain Gus Krayer gave the invocation and led the membership in the pledge to the flag. The minutes of January were read and approved.

Treasurer Pat Courtney was welcomed back and - in lieu of his report - he told us a joke.

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FLORIDA / Spacecoast

A particularly good showing of guests and visitors supplemented our regular membership as they joined VP Dan Postupack in the Pledge of Allegiance and bowed their heads for Ed Romano’s usual touching invocation. Following a tasty buffet, Mr. Steve Lamontagne, the General Manager of the Suntree Country Club, treated us to a presentation.

Steve’s background as an active PGA Golf Tour professional equipped him well for his present position where the care of two 18 hole golf courses and their 840 membership occupies much of his attention, though the management of the clubhouse with its three significant dining facilities requires an entirely different set of tactful skills. He briefed us on the changes to course care brought about by cold resistant ultra dwarf grasses, new chemicals, and improved mowers. Steve brought a smile to our membership as he recounted how he “took ownership” of a variety of animals residing on the club property, receiving complaints that “your wild pigs keep digging up my yard” and “your fox ate my cat last night.” In trying times, the club membership has grown by 20%, so Steve seems to be up to his challenging job.

The January meeting minutes were approved as published in the February Newsletter.

Community Relations - Chet Emery- Get well cards were sent to Marilyn Filipo and Gerald Cardile. - Our condolences were given to the family of Dick Lauria on his passing.

Treasurer’s Report- Bill Waldron educated us with his definition of Liquidity while reporting that both the General Fund and Scholarship Fund are in healthy shape. - A check for $1000 was delivered to the Brevard School Foundation as the first payment on this year’s scholarship awards.

Travel and EntertainmentMaureen Ayers happily reported that she had enrolled the necessary number of participants to qualify for the special package deal for the nine-day Branson trip, starting April 14th. Congratulations on

a job well done, Maureen, and have a great time.After briefing us on upcoming one day outings, Maureen supplemented our guest speaker’s comments about wild boars on the golf course with her own experience with a local young boar. An apparent orphan, it has adopted her two horses and has become an inseparable part of their family on her property.

Historian Report - Club Historian George Graefe and his wife Peg are in transit to California, to greet the new great-grandson, Colton Thomas. George left word that the VAC’s new acquisition, a Canberra bomber, has been completely dis-assembled and is being trucked today to the VAC, in Titusville.

Scholarship- The selection of this year’s scholarship winners will be coming up shortly.- We need volunteers for the evaluation committee. The process takes about one day and is quite informative and educational for the evaluators. Contact Bob Prais at 321-242-5782.

CommunicationsThis month’s acting president, Bill Steenson, paid tribute to our Communications chief, Don Powell, on his efficient handling of the notification of our membership on the re-scheduling of our meeting with minimum advance notice. Don in turn complimented our callers for their expeditious response.

Old BusinessRon Stinton reported on the assignment he had undertaken at the November meeting, to find a suitable charity that we could support, with a preference for an organization that aids local veterans. Last month’s speaker, arranged by Ron, directs a Veterans Transitional Facility and impressed our membership with his no-nonsense but compassionate operation of an interim home for veterans and their families who are honestly striving to find employment and permanent housing. Ron moved that our club donate $1000 to this 501-(C)-3 organization. His motion, seconded by George Demarest, was overwhelmingly approved of the membership.

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Added note: Following the meeting, our check was delivered to the director of the Veterans Transitional Facility, CSM Whitmore, USA (Ret), by Ron Stinton and cognizant chapter officers. Comment: “WOW” . . . and the week’s biggest smile!

Command Sgt. Major Paul Whitmore (USA Ret.), second left, receives a $1,000 donation from

Space Coast Chapter representatives: (left to right) Treasurer Bill Waldron, VP Dan Postu-

pack and Project Coordinator Ron Stinton

• Bill Steenson also reported on the passing of Bob Smyth, a personal acquaintance and friend to our Club. Bob was a consummate gentleman, and because of his honesty and professionalism, a pleasure to do business with.

Apology for omitting Doris Anderson from January Birthdays

Employee Birthdays: Gordon Woodruff, John Adams, Joseph German, Brian MacCarthy, William Santiago-Calo, Tracy Wood, and Howard Dunn

Spouse Birthdays: Shiela Bigel, Joyce Erickson, Katherine Petrovits, Pauline Christensen, Leonora Combs, Josephine Carter, and Kathleen Downey

Anniversaries: Patrick & Mary Ranieri, and Dick & Peg Duester

50/50 Drawing: We had six winners. The grand prize, a $25 gift certificate to Amici’s Italian Restaurant and a Valentine box of candy, was won by Ed Romano.

By: Camille Steenson, Acting Sec’y.

Future Meetings:

PLEASE NOTE CHANGES IN DATES

03/21; 04/25 (4TH Wed.); 05/16; 06/20;09/19, 10/7, 11/14 (2nd Wed.) ; 12/12 (2nd Wed.)

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FLORIDA/ Suncoast

President Bob Barth opened our February 15th, meeting luncheon with 11 members and guests in attendance.

Past President John Newark led the Pledge of Allegiance. Then Secretary Patricia Newark gave the invocation and a special prayer for our armed services personnel, both men and women, in harm’s way.

Ed Williams introduced his daughter, Karen Gaeting, who is visiting from Lincoln College, Pennsylvania.

Members missing in action today were: Warren & Agnes Bowman, and Tony Giouvalakas.

We celebrated three Birthdays: Anna Hurley (2/4), Karen Gaeting (2/11), and our very own St. Valentine’s Day Baby Boy, Tony Giouvalakas.

Happy Birthday & Congratulations to all!

Our fifty-fifty winners were: Bob Barth, Helen Barth, and Ben Hurley. All three returned their winnings to the Treasury.

2012 Meeting Dates: Mar. 21, April 18, Oct. 17, Nov. 21, and Dec. 19.

By: Patricia E. Newark, Sec’y. (727-360-7339) newarkjohn@rocketmail.com

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FLORIDA / Treasure Coast

Our January 16 meeting, at Manero’s Restaurant in Palm City, was opened by President Nancy Schaefer, with 59 members present. Nancy led the chapter in the Pledge of Allegiance, which was followed by Grace, led by John Borgen.

We were sad to learn of the deaths of Richie Lauria and Vinnie Vallitutti.

Please keep Bob Heggie and George Powell in your prayers. Bob is recovering from a stroke; George was recently hospitalized.

Following a very complimentary introduction by Bob Watkins, guest speaker Danny Knowles, former. VP of Human Resources & Personnel at Grumman Aerospace, gave a very informative talk and passed out information on “What Every Grumman Widow Should Know.” The handout information included telephone numbers for the Pension office, Benefits department, Social Security, and the Grumman Retiree Club. It was obvious from the response that everyone was grateful for, and enlightened by his talk and that he deserved all the compliments in his introduction.

Nancy welcomed new member Cecelia L’Hommedieu and visitor Diane Delisi. Nancy reported that the Doo Wop group, The Bronx Wonders, gave a super performance that was enjoyed by all.

Our raffle was a chocolate cheesecake made by Dick Schaefer. There were originally two cakes, but unexpected guests at the Schaefer home reduced it to one!! The cake winner was Bill Weremeichik, who was the unexpected guest! No kidding!

Our 50/50 had several winners of $5, with proceeds going to the scholarship fund.

Birthday wishes for Bob Falkowski, Irene Falkowski, Fred Savio and Marilyn Fink.

Anniversary wishes to Claude & Joann Rathgeber, Lawrence & Doris Regiri, and Ken & Maddy Tolve.

By: Raeann Wallace, Sec’y. aeann_wallace@yahoo.com.

Next Meeting: March 15*********************************************************

GEORGIA / Peach Pit

Our February 21 meeting was held at the Golden Corral Restaurant in Milledgeville, beginning at 12:30PM. There were 24 present when President Wendell Barr called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chaplain Willie Collins gave the Blessing and we enjoyed the meal and fellowship.

Old BusinessA motion by Rubye Avant and seconded by Hans Borstell to waive reading and to accept the January meeting minutes was discussed. There being no changes the motion carried.

New Business1. President Wendell welcomed attendees and continued the Business meeting by reminding all that year 2012 annual dues are required by February 29 so the Club portion may be forwarded by March 1.

2 Member Dues and any Community Fund gift checks [payable to: Grumman Retiree Club, Inc.] should be sent to: Joe Sansotta at 3748 Sussex Drive NE, Milledgeville, GA 31061-9360. Dues continue at $15 per annum.

3. Members bringing Food, Groceries, and/or a check for Chard Wray Memorial Food Pantry to any of our meetings are assured that donations will be given to the Pantry, in the Club’s name, following that meeting.

4. Recent new Club additions are Josephine Harrelson, Mark McCullach, and Willie Mae Reaves. Welcome to all as we begin the first month of this Chapter’s 25th year.

5. February Happy Birthday wishes are extended to: Fred Peterson [6th], Willie Collins [11th], Al Duspiva [16th], Rubye Avant [18th], Delores Hicks [20th], and Art Minardi [28th].

6. Wedding Anniversary congratulations to: Al & Marion Duspiva [10th], Bill & Jackie Holsenbeck [12th], Lew & Kathy Iuliucci [17th], Bill & Barbara Ann Schwendler Jr. [20th], and Leroy & Daisy Nash [24th].

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New Member Mark McCullach won the 75/25 Fundraiser raffle. Looks like beginner’s luck. Congratulations, Mark.

Where are they now? Secretary Lew had a telecom from Louise “Nieice” Coleman and had a reminiscing conversation about the “good ole days”. She, a former Manufacturing Manager, on Composites Programs, and her spouse - a former Facilities Mechanic - are both retired Grummanites. They followed a child and grandchildren to the suburbs of Atlanta, It was great hearing they’ve settled into the Peach State and are content in retirement. We’ll stay in touch.

Joe Sansotta is going into the hospital for leg surgery. We wish him a speedy recovery.

Community ServiceAt least 1 member donated Blood to the American Red Cross this month.

ProgramCelebrate Recovery was presented by Bill and Jackie Holsenbeck. Bill spoke about the Medical aspect, while Jackie addressed the family impact. This faith-based program’s results are a testament that miracles are common occurrences. The presentations were interesting and informative. Thank you, Bill and Jackie.

A motion by Ernie Godbee and seconded by Jerry Potter ended the Business Meeting at 2PM.

By: Lew M. Iuliucci, Sec’y. (478-452-1357) iuliucci@windstream.net

Next Meeting: March 20, 12:45PM, at Triumph Group’s Vought Site [Grumman Plant 66], Milledgeville. Site President Merlin Fechner will present a Site Business Plan Overview. Following the roughly one hour meeting, to include lunch, is an optional roughly one hour Plant tour. Also, attendees must be U.S.A. citizens and must notify Secretary Lew Iuliucci of the names of planned attendees. The attendees list will be given to Plant Security for both visitor Badges [obtained by showing a driver’s license or other picture ID at the entry gate] and to determine a total for attendees’ lunches. [Note: in past years, a hot

lunch with dessert and soft drink/water/ beverage had a small fee of between $5 and $8 per person, at the discretion of our Host. The lunch fee will be collected by Treasurer Joe Sansotta at the meeting.] ********************************************************

Maryland

The Glen Arm Chapter of the Grumman Retiree Club celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year!!!

2012’s first evening meeting was held on Feb 21. Several members who can’t normally attend the daytime meetings showed up. Great to see you guys!

The next evening meeting is tentatively scheduled for May 20, at 6:30PM.

Topics Discussed at the February 21 Meeting- Visit to B&O Railroad Museum: We decided to postpone the B&O Museum trip until the Holiday season next Fall. During the Holiday season, in addition to the Museum displays and the train ride, there is a Christmas garden display. Members felt additional activities would be worth the wait. - Chapter Picnic: We voted to have the Club picnic after Labor Day. The tentative date is Saturday September 15. Several members are to check out possible sites / locations. The picnic menu and activities will be discussed at upcoming meetings. Known Birthdays - Birthday Wishes go to:Lisa Kuznear (3/30), Bill Meininger (3/15) Joe Sann (3/24) and Maxine Svach (2/29). Membership renewal forms were mailed out. If you haven’t already done so, please submit your renewal to Joe Svach, ASAP. If you are in contact with a Grummanite who isn’t a member, but may want to join, please forward that person’s contact information or have them contact Rolfe Feser or Joe Svach.

Current membership count for 2012 is 31. More renewals are expected to be submitted this week.

Next Meeting: March 20, at 11:30AM.

Our meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month; one meeting each quarter is an evening meeting. Meetings are currently held at the Golden Corral, 706 South Philadelphia Blvd, Aberdeen, MD.

12

If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact Rolfe Feser (410-661-2580 or poppyro@verizon.net) or Joe Svach (410-836-8393 or jam.svach@comcast.net).

*********************************************************

New England North

New England North Chapter is on Winter Break**********************************************************

New JerseyGarden State Chapter

No meetings in January or February.

Next Meeting: March 20, 2012, at the Lakehurst Diner at 1PM.

**********************************************************

NEW YORK / Eastern Long Island Chapter

Vice President Bob Albert welcomed 18 members to our Feb. 15th meeting. Sgt.-at-Arms Richie Myers led the Pledge of Allegiance and VP Bob read a short prayer for our departed and ailing members and for our armed forces in harm’s way.

Minutes reading waived [no January meeting].

Marty Getzelman, our “Minstrel” of the Treasury, gave his report after several anecdotes. Seconded and approved.

Birthdays Celebrated: Ralph Cirrone [82] in Jan; Roy Jacobson [83] and Marv Thorne [83] in Feb.

Anniversaries: Bill & Joyce Hamilton, and Fred & Marion Losee in March.

Bill Hamilton delivered a newsletter from Suffolk County United Veterans. The “wish list” from the Vets includes: new vacuum cleaners, lawnmower, food for food pantry, cleaning supplies, paper goods, cookbooks, DVD players, DVDs, and new twin-size vinyl mattresses. If you would like to donate a service, they need computer repair, tech support, and landscaping. If you have any items or services to donate, contact Wilkens at 631-924-8888. Cash donations also welcome! Community Relations items per Bill Mytko:

- Antonio Realmuto passed away on Jan. 25, 2012. Also, Jerome Travers passed away. Condolence cards were sent to their families. - Carole Pallisco ailing- Bob Irwin rehabbing from knee surgery - Bob Munro & wife Joyce Celebrated their 90th Birthdays. Congrats!- Bob home from hospital. We wish him a speedy recovery.- Bill Mytko worked with Bob [Weapons Test Engineer] for many good years at the “gun butts.”- Bill received a Christmas card from Barbara & Dave Seeman [test pilot]. Dave is still active at Patuxent Naval Air Museum [Historian].- Bill misses the good old days at Grumm!Our condolences to all who have lost a loved one and Our hopes for a swift recovery to our ailing members.

Any sicknesses, deaths, etc: please contact Bill [1-864-225-4927 or ermytko@yahoo.com]

Group was reminded to pay 2012 dues. Send check [$13, payable to ELI Grumman Retiree Club . . . Not payable to Bert!] to Bert Moller [631-864-4377] at 33 Ramsey Road, Commack, NY 11725. Print your name, address, and phone number on your check. Thanks.

NO DUES = NO NEWSLETTER!

50/50 Drawing: Two $10 Winners. Roy donated his back to the Club! Thanx!

Meeting then adjourned,

Nice to see Ray Lanza at the meeting,

Hope our “Snowbirds” are enjoying Florida, including Prez. Bert

Next Meeting: March 21, at Holiday Inn Express (Rte. 58, Riverhead, East of Tanger Mall and Riverhead Raceway.) Meeting at 1PM, lunch [$14] at Noon. Pleez call Bob Albert [631-585-7987] by Monday of meeting week for cancellations/reservations [needed for head count.]

Thanks to Pauline and Roy, our dedicated “door” people.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Corned Beef & Cabbage Lunch Sked.

Future Meetings: April 18; May 16. . By: Bob Albert VP*********************************************************

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NORTH CAROLINAEastern Carolina Chapter

Our February meeting, organized by Program Directors Joe Mele and Flossie Johnson, was held Feb 14, at the Emerald Club in New Bern. We had a turnout of 40 members and guests on a very overcast day.

Joe opened the meeting and introduced some new members from the New Bern area. Our new members were David & Mary Russel and their daughter Eileen John; and Ned & Mary Ferris. The retirees stood and gave a brief summary of their time and tasks while at Grumman. They were welcomed with a good round of applause.

Joe called upon Sgt.-at-Arms Ken Gruebel to lead the salute to the flag, which was followed with a warm and inspiring invocation.

Following lunch, Joe Mele spoke at some length, describing a design approach to the construction of major traffic-bearing bridges utilizing weight saving aluminum alloy in lieu of steel. Constructed in sections, which also includes the roadbed, assembled at ground level, and hoisted into place, the resulting tube-like structure would provide a long life, rust resistant structure with low cost maintenance over the years to come. He also described a machine he designed, and had built, to produce aluminum parts to exacting dimensions requiring no further machining, through the use of an extreme high pressure die molding process. After a brief question & answer session, Joe turned the meeting over to President Rudi Wiehl.

Rudi asked Treasurer Fred Reynolds (just recovered from knee replacement) for a financial report. Fred reported that dues have been coming in nicely and after he forwards them to BPA, we will still be solvent.

Rudi announced members who had birthdays or anniversaries over the Jan/Feb time frame:

January Birthdays: Al Northrup, Bob Glowacki,

Frank Bollero, Joan Willemsen, Vynne Wendel, Marlene Buddine, Bernadette Bird, Rosemary Daidone, Dick Schneider, Kermit Nicholson, and Marty Olstad.

February Birthdays: Audrey Bollero, Helen Guarino, Fred Jinks, Tom Schroder, and Mary Olstad.

Anniversary: Ron & Barbara Betts - 60 Years!

Rudi asked Tom Schroder to step up and deliver some humor. Tom started by telling a story that took place a couple weeks ago. A man in the local area passed away and in the newspaper obituary listed among the relatives to arrive for the funeral, was a man Tom thought could be somebody he knew and worked with many years ago (40) in Grumman. Taking a gamble, he went to the funeral home and walked up behind this man, tapped him on the shoulder and said, “Hey, Fred Truebig, how are you doing?” Astounded, the man turned and said, “What the heck are you doing here? Where did you come from?” We went over old times and the work on the KA-6D Tanker in the yellow shack behind Plt. 6.

Tom went on to deliver a fresh batch of jokes garnered from the Internet, which were well received.

Wes Johnson, our investment counselor, then distributed the profits from the 50/50 pool.

The meeting was closed after a motion by Tom Schroder, seconded by Bob Lamberson, and passed by all.

Next Meeting: March 14, at Logan’s Steakhouse, in Jacksonville, NC. Noon for social; 1PM for lunch.

By: Tom Schroder, Past President

*********************************************************

14

PENNSYLVANIA Northeastern Pennsylvania

Well, we have been pretty lucky so far here in Northeast PA. We have had some snow, but it hasn’t last long. Temps above average . . . only proves the weather people do not know what they are talking about. When we got that storm in October, they were predicting a very bad snow season. R-I-G-H-T! Today, February 23, as I am doing this report, the temperature is in the mid 40s and climbing to near 50. Not bad. Getting close to our April meeting. Next month’s report will tell you when and where we will meet. Still no bites for President, Vice-President, or Sergeant-at-Arms. I can remember when I first joined the Club, we had anywhere from 30 to 45 members at a meeting. Now we are lucky to get 10 members. By members I mean Grumman people. What happened? I realize we are getting smaller due to age, but there are still enough of us around to keep the Big G alive.

Sickness ReportMarianne Sparkowski is doing fabulously. Her knee replacement was only 4 1/2 weeks ago and she is down to a cane. She is in rehab three times a week and is really doing well.Nothing else on the rest of our walking wounded, so I guess all is fine with them. February Birthdays: Hank Appel, Joseph Belding, Dan Fass, Barbara Knowles, Anker Petersen, Joseph Renderio, Marianne Sparkowski, and Evelyn Stoye.

February Anniversaries: Andrew & Hedwig Goszack, Fred & Alberta Rademacher, Joseph & Gloria Renderio, and Judy & Robert Zupp.

Remember: Keep April 19 open for our first meeting of the year.

By: Edward J. Sparkowski Sec’y/Chaplain(570-698-7182) firefly417@verizon.net

********************************************************

SOUTH CAROLINA / Coastal Carolinas

Eleven members met on February 1, 2012, at Damon’s Restaurant in Myrtle Beach. Nancy & Don Webber reserved a lovely room overlooking the ocean, and lunch was enjoyed by all.

President Ronald Girardin called the meeting to order. In the absence of Sgt.–at–Arms Eldon Scott, Mary Moran led the Pledge of Allegiance and requested a moment of silence.

We missed those of you who weren’t at the meeting, and you missed a nice afternoon of fellowship, fine food, and a beautiful ocean view.

“Happy Birthday” to Lorraine Girardin, Ronald Girardin, Harold Katzenberger, Marilyn Jelis, Mary Moran, Helen Timoney, Don Webber, and Tom Mugno.

No anniversaries for the month of February.

The Secretary read the January meeting minutes. A motion was made to accept the minutes as read was made, seconded, and approved.

Don Webber gave the Treasurer’s Report, which was accepted as read.

Sunshine Committee: We extend our thoughts and prayers to John Lewis, Dick Seidler, Theresa McMahon, and Eldon Scott, who have health issues. Hope you are all feeling better.

50/50 Drawing: Ted Hedin won the prize, and then donated $13 back to the club.

As usual, we need speakers for future meetings.

Don Webber is preparing to send the dues to Bethpage; if you have not paid your dues, please do so; $15 per member, $5 per spouse. Make checks payable to Don Webber and mail to Don at 4713 National Drive, Myrtle beach, SC 29579.

Next Meeting: March 7, at Noon, at Ocean Garden Buffet, 901 Highway 17 North, Surfside Beach.

In April, we meet on the 4th, at Noon, at The Grill House Restaurant (Lowes Shopping Center), 228 2nd Ave. N., North Myrtle Beach.

15

The May meeting, our last meeting prior to being off for the summer, will be a picnic held at Nancy & Don Webber’s home, on May 2, at Noon. Meat items will be provided by the club; everyone is asked to bring their favorite dish.

We welcome all Grumman, Northrop, and Northrop/Grumman retirees, as well as their guests.

By: Nancy Webber, Secy. (843–347–2113) nwebber90887@sc.rr.com*******************************************************

TEXAS / Houston

No Report of February Activity*******************************************************

VIRGINIA / CENTRAL VIRGINIA.

We had a successful February luncheon meeting at the La Pomme restaurant in Gordonsville. Thirteen members attended, enjoying delicious French entrees.

The 50/50 was won by President Maryanne Muller.

Springtime has come early in our area with no snow this year and the daffodils blooming. Member birthdays during this month were: Beverly Purstell, Karl Himmelmann, Fred Meiners, and Doris Parsons Anniversaries; Maryanne & Ray Muller (January)

Next scheduled meeting luncheons03/07-12:30PM at Crab Louie - Midlothean04/04-12:30PM, Topeka Steak House - Charlottesville05/02-12:30PM at Waynesboro Country Club - Waynesboro06/06 -12:30PM at Firehouse, at Lake Monticello (Pot Luck Lunch) By: Karl Himmelmann, Sec’y. Karlaqua@aol.com*********************************************************

VIRGINIA / Potomac

No Report of February Activity Grumman

History Part One

Follow-Up

“An article in the February Newsletter reminded me of a story my father, Clint Towl, told me of Roy Grumman picking up a privately owned amphibian aircraft needing repair.

Mr. Grumman had taken his own car and trailer to Connecticut to pick up the damaged aircraft and deliver it to the Grumman garage in Baldwin. He entered the garage from an alleyway behind the building. Although he pulled up to the building wall as much as he could, a good part of the aircraft still remained outside in the alleyway.

That night, someone motoring thru the alleyway with too much to drink drove into the tail end of the aircraft, causing much more damage. Remember: this occurred at the very founding of Grumman and before they were receiving income from building aluminum truck bodies; there was no cash flow; only what the founders had pooled to start the business.

First thing the next morning they all met and calculated that the profit they would receive from repair of the initial damage to the aircraft would be wiped out. They didn’t have any insurance to cover the accident. What it would cost them to repair the damage from the alleyway incident would all be out-of-pocket. In other words, they would be broke!

They took a vote: Do we pack up our bags and return to our previous jobs or risk continuing in hopes other revenue would be forthcoming? After much discussion, the consensus was that they really hadn’t given themselves a chance to prove what they had set out to achieve, so let’s go for it. The rest is history.” Kip Towl

Grumman History: Preparing for Warcontinued from Page One

more were ordered. But the German Messerschmitt Bf-109 and Japan’s “Zero” had already made these aircraft obsolete. Grumman’s next generation fighter was intended to be a bi-winged XF-4F. However, the monoplane concept was so vastly superior to the bi-plane that the Navy agreed to Grumman’s proposal to redesign the F-4F as a monoplane.

Bob Hall took the rushed XF4F-2 on its first flight on September 2, 1937, just six months after the move into Plant 1. Speed performance was great but engine and other troubles led the US Navy to select the Brewster Buffalo as its front line fighter. Although disappointed, Grumman persisted in its efforts to improve its design (with Navy support), while continuing production of the amphibian J2F Duck and the G-21 Goose. The Goose was an immediate commercial success and - because of its versatility - was also in demand by the US Army Air Corps. As 1938 came to a close, Grumman’s 700 employees were producing four aircraft types while its engineers continued to push the state of the art with the development of the XF5F-1 Skyrocket, the first twin-engine carrier based fighter.

Grumman’s persistence to make the F4F a great fighter paid off in 1939. By now it had a more powerful and reliable Pratt & Whitney engine, redesigned cowlings to prevent engine overheating, and improved stability. Aerodynamically, the F4F now had longer wings, clipped at the tips. The tail tip was also squared off, creating the signature silhouette that characterized Grumman fighters. Performance was also way up. The Navy’s “just in case plan” worked. The F4F-3 (this new version) was ready when the Brewster design failed expectations. Grumman received a production contract for 54 F4F-3s in August, 1939. The production line was known as the “production pipeline,” with changes performed on the line. “Keep the line moving” was the order of the day.

September 1939 was the start of WWII in Europe. The Germans invaded Poland. The F4Fs the Navy ordered were to go to France, but the blitzkrieg was too rapid. France capitulated before any deliveries. These aircraft were diverted to England’s Royal Navy and renamed the Martlet. These, as well as more advanced F4Fs, were destined to play a significant role during the Battle of the Atlantic, as well as in the Norwegian and African Campaigns.

Much to Mr. Grumman’s chagrin, Grumman needed to grow. His dream of a small family type company was gone. By 1939, Plant 1 was being expanded, Plant 2 construction was beginning, and Grumman’s backlog had ballooned to $5.3 million.

Jake Swirbul’s concern for employees led to the introduction of Group Insurance in 1940 while the amazing inventiveness of Leroy Grumman again manifested itself in a new way to increase carrier capability. Mr. Grumman looked to birds for inspiration, noting how birds folded their wings downward and back. Not folded upward. Using a paperclip and an eraser he found a rotational axis that could fold the wings in just the right way. This innovation enabled increasing the number of aircraft on a carrier by 150%. Incorporation of the “sto-wing” created the F4F-4. This ‘sto-wing’ design was applied to over 20,000 aircraft and is still in use today on the E-2D Hawkeye and C-2A Greyhound. On December 30, 1940, Grumman received the award to develop the TBF Avenger, a torpedo bomber capable of internally carrying 2000 lbs of ordinance as bombs of various sizes or a torpedo, as well as machine guns capable of strafing shipping targets. Its silhouette bore a strong resemblance to the F4F with its big body and squared off wing and tail surfaces. Both the Avenger and the F4F would engage the Japanese during the Battle of Midway in less than two years.

History Center, Ken Speiser & Larry Feliu

In Memoriam

We extend heartfelt sympathy to the families and friends of those who have passed away. Conlon, Thomas R. Deer Park, NY 01/09/12

Costantino, Fortunato ‘Fred’ Stuart, FL 10/18/11

Cushing, Bernard Nesconset, NY 02/03/12

DeZervos, Michael N. Bethpage, NY 01/20/12

Ennis, Doris Seaford, NY 02/17/12

Green, Leon C. Stuart, FL 12/07/11

Guarino, Pino Huntington Station, NY 01/23/12

Gray, Josephine Clarksburg, WV 02/10/12

Harse, Mary North Bellmore, NY 02/17/12

Hokhold, Stephen T., Jr. West Palm Beach, FL 02/03/12

Iacona, Eugene ‘Gene’ Port St. Lucie, FL 11/11/11

Krastel, August A., Jr. Coatesville, PA 01/26/12

Larkin, Ruth Merritt Island, FL 08/02/11

Lauria, Richard F. Melbourne, FL 02/03/12

Monza, Josephine Medford, NY 01/16/12

Ranaldo, Charles A. ‘Chinky’ Oyster Bay, NY 11/11/11

Regalmuto, Antonio J. Bellport, NY 01/25/12

Richard, Edward B., Jr. Brookhaven Hamlet, NY 11/09/11

Sarinick, Brent Farmingdale, NY 01/28/12

Schaefer, Al San Diego, CA 06/09/10

Scheifele, Frank M. Ridge, NY 01/17/12

Thomas, Edward M. Dix Hills, NY 03/24/11

Valetutti, Vincent J. Port St. Lucie, FL 02/10/12

Zaleski, Frank Jr. Jamesport, NY 12/07/11

Zeller, Raymond C. Delray Beach, FL 02/05/12

When reporting a death, provide the person’s Name, Date of death, and the City & State of residence prior to death. Notices of member deaths should be e-mailed to the club (grumrc@gmail.com),

with “Death Notice” as the subject.

Robert T. Bonagura, CFP®

Vice PresidentFinancial Advisor

Vice PresidentFinancial Advisor

Patricia Hand-Van Leer

1300 Franklin AvenueGarden City, NY 11530

direct 516 683 3150fax 516 248 2802toll free 866 291 5416

patricia.van.leer@morganstanley.com

robert.bonagura@morganstanley.com

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OPEn 9:30-5:00 PMTuesday through Sunday

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Visit us online at:

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MILLERIDGE INNMARCH 28 LUNCHeoN ReSeRvAtIoN FoRM

Member Name (print)__________________________________________Guest Names (print)____________________________________________________________________________________No. of Members attending _____ No. of Guests attending _____No. of Fish _____ No. of Beef _____ No. of Chicken _____

Luncheon coupons should be mailed toGrumman Retiree Club, Inc.

PO Box 476Bethpage, NY 11714

$10 per member - $20 per guestPLEASE RESPOND BY MARCH 21, 2012

CREST HOLLOW CCAPRIL 25 LUNCHEON RESERVATION FORM

Member Name (print)__________________________________________Guest Names (print)____________________________________________________________________________________No. of Members attending _____ No. of Guests attending _____No. of Fish _____ No. of Chicken _____

Luncheon coupons should be mailed toGrumman Retiree Club, Inc.

PO Box 476Bethpage, NY 11714

$10 per member - $20 per guestPLeASe ReSPoNd BY APRIL 18, 2012

GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB 2012 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION / RENEWAL

BETHPAGE CHAPTER OTHER CHAPTERS DUES ARE $13.00 Mail your check ($13) and this form to: Contact Your Chapter for

Grumman Retiree Club Dues Amount M/S Z49-25 600 Grumman Road West Mail your check(s) and this Bethpage, NY 11714-5000 form to your local chapter

.1. Member Name (print) ___________________________________________ Badge# ___________

2. Address __________________________________________ DOB: ____/___/____

3. City ________________________________ State ______ ZIP+4 __________________

4. Telephone Number (____) _____________ E-Mail (please print) ______________________

5. Spouse or Next of Kin Name (print) _________________________________________________

6. Method Of Payment - Please Indicate:(A) Check/Money Order # _____________ Date ______________

(B) Cash _____

7. Please Check: New Member ____ Renewal ____ Surviving Spouse ____

8. Please Note: DONATIONS REQUIRE SEPARATE CHECKS

(a ) Donation to the Bethpage Chapter $ _______ (b) Donation to the Scholarship Fund $ ________

Note: All donations are tax deductible.

QUESTIONS? Call the Club office at (516)-575-3777.

Visit the Club Web Site at www.grummanretireeclub.org

Periodical Postage

Paid

Grumman Retiree Club, Inc.600 Grumman Road West, M/S Z49-25Bethpage, NY 11714-5000

NORTHROP GRUMMANBenefits Center 1-800 - 894 - 4194Investment Plan 1-800 - 894 - 4194Pension (Vought) 1-888 - 346 - 4716Health (Vought) 1-866 - 689 - 5999

BENEFITS ON LINEwww.benefits.northropgrumman.com

NewsletterEditor: Neil KlaskinNostalgia Coordinator: Charles Mooney

Grumman Retiree Club, Inc.Phone: (516) 575-3777Fax: (516) 575-8715Website: www.grummanretireeclub.orgE-mail: grumrc@gmail.com

officersMarion Abbott - President Bob Ripp - 1st Vice PresidentBetter Bohlander - 2nd Vice PresidentLou Kubat - SecretaryFrank Rizzo - TreasurerBarbara Major - Sgt.-at-Arms