Welcome to the USS Franklin D Roosevelt CV-42 Guestbook Forum

Years Served: 1951-1953…I was just a kid & did not understand the great honor to be serving on the good ship but I all so served on the Midway, Coral Sea. In all, the U.S. 41-42-43.

Years Served: 1968 -1969…Served as an ASM-3 on the Rosie, in the Aviation Ground Support Equipment Repair Shop under the mezzine in hanger bay #3, during it’s stint in the shipyards for a major overhaul at Portsmouth, VA. Went on shake down cruise to Cuba and the Virgin Islands. Was discharged off of her on October 31, 1969, before she made a med cruise in January 1970. Made some really good friends while on board her. It is sad that the grand old Rosie met a death in the scrap yards in 1982.

Years Served: 2…Served in H Div and S-3 Div in 1959 & 1960. Two great Med Tours. Email if you want: cwhepkat@cox.net

Years Served: 1958-1966…I came aboard as part of VAH-11 Heavy Attack. We deployed aboard FDR until the Cuban Crisis. A long time later I happened into Mayport and found FDR up and ready to deploy I was shocked and excited and ready to go myself. My wife pointed out I was long out of the Navy and way to old. I would have given anything to be aboard her one more time. I guess Rosie is gone for good but she will always be a part of me. The fruity roo the best ship I ever sailed on.

Years Served: 1964 – 1966…Served with VF-11, the Red Rippers