United States Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI)
Encyclopedia
The United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. (USSVI) was created by a group of men from the United States Submarine Veterans of World War II
. They shared a belief in the need of an organization open to all United States Navy
submariners, from the very beginning of the Submarine
Service to the present and into the future - not limited to just those who served so ably in World War II
. They wanted to ensure their shipmates who were Killed in action
on submarines would never be forgotten.
MAIN WEBSITE: www.ussvi.org
freedoms. It is the primary mission of USSVI to perpetuate their memory through memorials and "tolling the boats" memorial services. Per the USSVI Constitution Article III the Purpose/Creed consists of three sections:
pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their
dedication, deeds, and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of
motivation toward greater accomplishments. Pledge loyalty and patriotism
to the United States of America and its Constitution.
which still exists today. Originally founded in July 1955, membership in this organization is limited to submarine crews and relief crews who were on active duty from December 1, 1941 through September 1, 1945. As this organization grew, so did the development and deployment of American
submarines across the globe, and it became apparent to many that there was a need and a strong desire for a new organization to include submariners of all eras.
on April 10, 1963, a meeting was set for October 12, 1963. Led by Dominic ‘Joe’ Negri and others, the Charter Meeting of USSVI was held in Orange, New Jersey
, with 16 representatives present. The Creed and National Bylaw
s were established at this inaugural meeting. Officers were appointed to serve in an acting capacity until regular elections could be held in the summer of 1964. Robert Link was appointed President; Ken Walkington, Vice-President; Joe Burges, Secretary; and Mike Drucker, Treasurer.
attorney, L. Patrick Gray, Captain, U.S. Navy (Retired) (who later became the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
), to legally constitute USSVI as a legal, non-profit organization in the State of Connecticut, with a license to operate and conduct business in all 50 states. The organization was officially incorporated and chartered in New London, Connecticut. The signatories were Joe Negri, Ken Walkington, and Joe Marion. Additional USSVI Plank Owners included Warren ‘Ed’ Gannon, Angelo La Pelosa, Robert Link, Tom Rowan, and Hugh Trimble. They selected former United States Submarine Veterans of World War II National Commander Bob Link as their first acting National Commander. Joe Negri was elected the first Connecticut State Commander and Dick Higham was elected the first Base Commander of Connecticut Base #1, which later became Groton Base. This fledgling organization would soon grew to several hundred shipmates scattered throughout Connecticut
, New York
, Pennsylvania
, Massachusetts
, and New Jersey
.
on June 18–20, 1964. Acting President, Robert Link of Absecon, New Jersey
was host to the delegates at the Traymore Hotel. Nine eastern states were represented by Ed Sena from New York
, Dick Higham from Connecticut
, Elmo Wittig from New Jersey
, Thomas ‘Doc’ Smith from New Jersey
, Herman Schmidt from New Jersey
, Art Clarke from Pennsylvania
, Joe Negri and Ken Walkington of Connecticut
. Commander Charles Carlisle, Commanding officer
of USS Tecumseh (SSBN-628)
, served as guest speaker for the first annual convention. Vice Admiral
Charles A. Lockwood
was also a guest in attendance.
A new slate of National Officers was elected at the first Convention. Joe Negri was elected National Commander; KenWalkington, Vice Commander; Joe Burges, Secretary; and Mike Drucker,Treasurer. National Directors were JoeWebb, Dick Higham, and Joe Marion.
tickets (1000 tickets at $10 each) for a gold Cadillac
to raise the money for the down payment on the present home at 40 School Street in Groton, Connecticut
.
The base building on School Street became a reality in 1966. Due to the fact that the Groton USSVI/Base was incorporated within the State of Connecticut and they had their own building, it was voted that Groton become the National Headquarters of USSVI.
The prerequisite for National Office is that a Nominee must be a Regular Member in good standing a minimum of thirty consecutive months. The term of office for all National officers is two years or until a successor is elected. No individual can serve more than two consecutive terms as National Commander. Other than the position of National Commander, there are no restrictions on the number of terms an individual may be elected to any office.
.
and manages membership and administrative services.
at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. The library has a complete set of the following magazines:
All are invited to join their shipmates in "Subvets". Contact office@ussvi.org or click the "Join US" button at www.ussvi.org for more information.
Base Bylaws. A Base may offer a member, who is a National Life Member, Base Life Membership, not to exceed the cost of National Life membership.
National Life Membership was inaguarated in 1984 at the National Business Meeting in Groton, Connecticut
.
Base Life Membership, in 1985, was voted-in at the Boston Base, available with National Life Membership as a prerequisite.
Each Associate Member must be sponsored by a Regular Member in good standing and are eligible for Life Membership. Associate Membership is reserved for persons not otherwise eligible for regular membership, but who are related to the Submarine Service by their deeds or actions. All Associate Members must be at least sixteen (16) years of age. This does not preclude any relative of a regular member in good standing from applying for Associate Membership.
The Holland Club was named after John Philip Holland
an engineer
who developed the first submarine
to be formally commissioned
by the U.S. Navy.
The foundation was approved for tax exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code on December 5, 2000. To facilitate the many activities that may arise, the foundation is split into various dedicated funds.
, Korean War
, Vietnam War
, and the First Gulf War.
In May 1969, the magazine Submarine National Review, came into existence to better establish communications and rapport within the submarine community, with Ken Walkington and Tom Rowan serving as co-editors. It was renamed American Submariner in December 1977. It reverted back to Submarine National Review in January 1979 but in July 1991 it was renamed yet again to American Submariner but it retained the subtitle of National Submarine Review until 2000.
United States Submarine Veterans of World War II
The United States Submarine Veterans of World War II is a congressionally chartered veterans organization that was established to "perpetuate the memory of those shipmates who gave their lives in submarine warfare" during World War II.-Purpose:...
. They shared a belief in the need of an organization open to all United States Navy
United States Navy
The United States Navy is the naval warfare service branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the seven uniformed services of the United States. The U.S. Navy is the largest in the world; its battle fleet tonnage is greater than that of the next 13 largest navies combined. The U.S...
submariners, from the very beginning of the Submarine
Submarine
A submarine is a watercraft capable of independent operation below the surface of the water. It differs from a submersible, which has more limited underwater capability...
Service to the present and into the future - not limited to just those who served so ably in World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
. They wanted to ensure their shipmates who were Killed in action
Killed in action
Killed in action is a casualty classification generally used by militaries to describe the deaths of their own forces at the hands of hostile forces. The United States Department of Defense, for example, says that those declared KIA need not have fired their weapons but have been killed due to...
on submarines would never be forgotten.
MAIN WEBSITE: www.ussvi.org
Purpose
Nearly 4,000 submariners have sacrificed their lives on the altar of AmericanUnited States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
freedoms. It is the primary mission of USSVI to perpetuate their memory through memorials and "tolling the boats" memorial services. Per the USSVI Constitution Article III the Purpose/Creed consists of three sections:
Creed
Section 1: To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in thepursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their
dedication, deeds, and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of
motivation toward greater accomplishments. Pledge loyalty and patriotism
to the United States of America and its Constitution.
Camaraderie
Section 2: In addition to perpetuating the memory of departed shipmates, USSVI provides a way for all Submariners to gather for mutual benefit and enjoyment. The common heritage as Submariners is strengthened by camaraderie. USSVI supports a strong United States Submarine Force.Perpetual remembrance
Section 3: The organization engages in various projects and deeds that bring about the perpetual remembrance of those shipmates who have given the supreme sacrifice. USSVI also endeavors to educate all third parties it comes in contact with about the services United States submariners performed and how the sacrifices of lost shipmates made possible the freedom and lifestyle Americans enjoy today.United States Submarine Veterans of World War II
Prior to the founding of the United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. (USSVI), there existed another U.S. submarine veterans association, the United States Submarine Veterans of World War IIUnited States Submarine Veterans of World War II
The United States Submarine Veterans of World War II is a congressionally chartered veterans organization that was established to "perpetuate the memory of those shipmates who gave their lives in submarine warfare" during World War II.-Purpose:...
which still exists today. Originally founded in July 1955, membership in this organization is limited to submarine crews and relief crews who were on active duty from December 1, 1941 through September 1, 1945. As this organization grew, so did the development and deployment of American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
submarines across the globe, and it became apparent to many that there was a need and a strong desire for a new organization to include submariners of all eras.
Formation of USSVI
Fueled by a desire to form a new association, and inspired by the tragic loss of the USS Thresher (SSN-593)USS Thresher (SSN-593)
The second USS Thresher was the lead ship of her class of nuclear-powered attack submarines in the United States Navy. Her loss at sea during deep-diving tests in 1963 is often considered a watershed event in the implementation of the rigorous submarine safety program SUBSAFE.The contract to build...
on April 10, 1963, a meeting was set for October 12, 1963. Led by Dominic ‘Joe’ Negri and others, the Charter Meeting of USSVI was held in Orange, New Jersey
Orange, New Jersey
The City of Orange is a city and township in Essex County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the township population was 30,134...
, with 16 representatives present. The Creed and National Bylaw
Bylaw
By-law can refer to a law of local or limited application passed under the authority of a higher law specifying what things may be regulated by the by-law...
s were established at this inaugural meeting. Officers were appointed to serve in an acting capacity until regular elections could be held in the summer of 1964. Robert Link was appointed President; Ken Walkington, Vice-President; Joe Burges, Secretary; and Mike Drucker, Treasurer.
Incorporation
On May 24, 1964, shipmates Joe Negri, Ken Walkington, and Joe Marion met with New London, ConnecticutNew London, Connecticut
New London is a seaport city and a port of entry on the northeast coast of the United States.It is located at the mouth of the Thames River in New London County, southeastern Connecticut....
attorney, L. Patrick Gray, Captain, U.S. Navy (Retired) (who later became the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
Federal Bureau of Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is an agency of the United States Department of Justice that serves as both a federal criminal investigative body and an internal intelligence agency . The FBI has investigative jurisdiction over violations of more than 200 categories of federal crime...
), to legally constitute USSVI as a legal, non-profit organization in the State of Connecticut, with a license to operate and conduct business in all 50 states. The organization was officially incorporated and chartered in New London, Connecticut. The signatories were Joe Negri, Ken Walkington, and Joe Marion. Additional USSVI Plank Owners included Warren ‘Ed’ Gannon, Angelo La Pelosa, Robert Link, Tom Rowan, and Hugh Trimble. They selected former United States Submarine Veterans of World War II National Commander Bob Link as their first acting National Commander. Joe Negri was elected the first Connecticut State Commander and Dick Higham was elected the first Base Commander of Connecticut Base #1, which later became Groton Base. This fledgling organization would soon grew to several hundred shipmates scattered throughout Connecticut
Connecticut
Connecticut is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the east, Massachusetts to the north, and the state of New York to the west and the south .Connecticut is named for the Connecticut River, the major U.S. river that approximately...
, New York
New York
New York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a U.S. state that is located in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. The state borders Delaware and Maryland to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, Ohio to the west, New York and Ontario, Canada, to the north, and New Jersey to...
, Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
, and New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
.
First National Convention
The first National Convention was held in Atlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City is a city in Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States, and a nationally renowned resort city for gambling, shopping and fine dining. The city also served as the inspiration for the American version of the board game Monopoly. Atlantic City is located on Absecon Island on the coast...
on June 18–20, 1964. Acting President, Robert Link of Absecon, New Jersey
Absecon, New Jersey
Absecon is a city in Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the city population was 8,411.What is now the City of Absecon was originally incorporated as a town by an Act of the New Jersey Legislature on February 29, 1872, from portions of Egg Harbor...
was host to the delegates at the Traymore Hotel. Nine eastern states were represented by Ed Sena from New York
New York
New York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
, Dick Higham from Connecticut
Connecticut
Connecticut is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the east, Massachusetts to the north, and the state of New York to the west and the south .Connecticut is named for the Connecticut River, the major U.S. river that approximately...
, Elmo Wittig from New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
, Thomas ‘Doc’ Smith from New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
, Herman Schmidt from New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
, Art Clarke from Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a U.S. state that is located in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. The state borders Delaware and Maryland to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, Ohio to the west, New York and Ontario, Canada, to the north, and New Jersey to...
, Joe Negri and Ken Walkington of Connecticut
Connecticut
Connecticut is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the east, Massachusetts to the north, and the state of New York to the west and the south .Connecticut is named for the Connecticut River, the major U.S. river that approximately...
. Commander Charles Carlisle, Commanding officer
Commanding officer
The commanding officer is the officer in command of a military unit. Typically, the commanding officer has ultimate authority over the unit, and is usually given wide latitude to run the unit as he sees fit, within the bounds of military law...
of USS Tecumseh (SSBN-628)
USS Tecumseh (SSBN-628)
USS Tecumseh , a ballistic missile submarine, was the fourth ship of the United States Navy to be named for Tecumseh , the leader of the Shawnee people.-Construction and commissioning:...
, served as guest speaker for the first annual convention. Vice Admiral
Vice Admiral
Vice admiral is a senior naval rank of a three-star flag officer, which is equivalent to lieutenant general in the other uniformed services. A vice admiral is typically senior to a rear admiral and junior to an admiral...
Charles A. Lockwood
Charles A. Lockwood
Charles Andrews Lockwood was an admiral of the United States Navy. He is known in submarine history as the legendary commander of Submarine Force Pacific Fleet during World War II...
was also a guest in attendance.
A new slate of National Officers was elected at the first Convention. Joe Negri was elected National Commander; KenWalkington, Vice Commander; Joe Burges, Secretary; and Mike Drucker,Treasurer. National Directors were JoeWebb, Dick Higham, and Joe Marion.
National Headquarters
The Groton Base started operating immediately and held meetings at the K of C in Groton. The attendance at these meetings was between 60-75 members. Joe Negri was elected the first state commander and Dick Higman was the first Base Commander. About a year later it was determined that they needed their own building and it was voted to sell raffleRaffle
A raffle is a competition in which people obtain numbered tickets, each ticket having the chance of winning a prize. At a set time, the winners are drawn from a container holding a copy of every number...
tickets (1000 tickets at $10 each) for a gold Cadillac
Cadillac
Cadillac is an American luxury vehicle marque owned by General Motors . Cadillac vehicles are sold in over 50 countries and territories, but mostly in North America. Cadillac is currently the second oldest American automobile manufacturer behind fellow GM marque Buick and is among the oldest...
to raise the money for the down payment on the present home at 40 School Street in Groton, Connecticut
Groton, Connecticut
Groton is a town located on the Thames River in New London County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 39,907 at the 2000 census....
.
The base building on School Street became a reality in 1966. Due to the fact that the Groton USSVI/Base was incorporated within the State of Connecticut and they had their own building, it was voted that Groton become the National Headquarters of USSVI.
National Officers
Nationally elected officers of USSVI are:- National Commander (NC)
- National Senior Vice-Commander (NSVC)
- National Junior Vice-Commander (NJVC)
- National Secretary (NS)
- National Treasurer (NT)
The prerequisite for National Office is that a Nominee must be a Regular Member in good standing a minimum of thirty consecutive months. The term of office for all National officers is two years or until a successor is elected. No individual can serve more than two consecutive terms as National Commander. Other than the position of National Commander, there are no restrictions on the number of terms an individual may be elected to any office.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors has the control and general management of the affairs and business of the organization. It is composed of the National elected officers, the Regional Directors, and the District Commanders, the immediate Past National Commander, the President of the Ladies Auxiliary and the Commander of the Holland Club.Regional Directors
Regional Directors are directly responsible to the National Commander for the conduct of organizational business within their Region. They serve as members of the Board of Directors, members of the Scholarship Committee, and perform other such duties as required by the National Constitution and USSVI Bylaws.District Commanders
District Commanders serve as non-voting members of the Board of Directors. They assist the Base Commanders within their respective districts in the performance of their duties, to include providing assistance as required to ensure the proper operation of base meetings and events, recruiting and retention. They appoint all District committees, committee chairman and appointed officers as required to conduct District business. They also approve Base Constitution and Bylaws, ensuring compliance with National and State laws regulating the operation of the organization within his district (i.e. chartering, maintaining non-profit status, etc.)Base Commanders
Base Commanders are responsible for the day-to-day operation of their specific base in accordance with their base Bylaws.Structure
USSVI is organized by Regions, Districts, and Bases though out the United StatesUnited States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
.
| Region | District | Bases |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | EN1 | 9 |
| Northeast | EN2 | 7 |
| Northeast | EN3 | 7 |
| Northeast | EN4 | 5 |
| Northeast | EN5 | 6 |
| Southeast | ES1 | 6 |
| Southeast | ES2 | 5 |
| Southeast | ES4 | 8 |
| Southeast | ES5 | 7 |
| Central | CD1 | 14 |
| Central | CD2 | 13 |
| Central | CD3 | 10 |
| Central | CD4 | 10 |
| Western | WD1 | 7 |
| Western | WD2 | 4 |
| Western | WD3 | 5 |
| Western | WD4 | 7 |
| Western | WD5 | 7 |
| Western | WD6 | 8 |
National Office
The National Office is located in Silverdale, WashingtonSilverdale, Washington
Silverdale is a census-designated place in Kitsap County, Washington, in the United States. The population was 19,204 at the 2010 census.Despite many attempts at incorporation, Silverdale remains an unincorporated community....
and manages membership and administrative services.
National Library
The National Library is located in North Little Rock, ArkansasNorth Little Rock, Arkansas
the city was 62.55% White, 33.98% Black or African American, 0.41% Native American, 0.59% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.18% from other races, and 1.26% from two or more races...
at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. The library has a complete set of the following magazines:
- Polaris magazine (of which is currently being scanned for archive)
- United States Submarine Veterans of World War II Ladies magazine
- American Submariner magazine (of which about 50% are scanned for archive)
Regular
USSVI Regular membership is restricted to current and former U.S. Military Personnel, who have been designated “Qualified in Submarines” by authorized U.S. Navy Command Authority, or are regular members of the U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II.All are invited to join their shipmates in "Subvets". Contact office@ussvi.org or click the "Join US" button at www.ussvi.org for more information.
Life
Regular and Associate Members may become Life Members by paying the National Life Membership Fee established in the Organization’s Bylaws. National Life Members will pay no further National dues, but may be required to pay Base dues as perBase Bylaws. A Base may offer a member, who is a National Life Member, Base Life Membership, not to exceed the cost of National Life membership.
National Life Membership was inaguarated in 1984 at the National Business Meeting in Groton, Connecticut
Groton, Connecticut
Groton is a town located on the Thames River in New London County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 39,907 at the 2000 census....
.
Base Life Membership, in 1985, was voted-in at the Boston Base, available with National Life Membership as a prerequisite.
Primary and Dual
When an applicant selects a Base to join, that Base becomes his "Primary" Base. This is done for National voting reasons. National election ballots are distributed according to a members Primary Base. A "Dual" member is someone who has also joined other bases as their interests dictate. The member may also vote in local Base elections through his "dual" base(s), but national election voting is always only done through the member's primary base.Associate
An Associate Member is a person who is not eligible for regular membership but is closely associated with a Regular Member.Each Associate Member must be sponsored by a Regular Member in good standing and are eligible for Life Membership. Associate Membership is reserved for persons not otherwise eligible for regular membership, but who are related to the Submarine Service by their deeds or actions. All Associate Members must be at least sixteen (16) years of age. This does not preclude any relative of a regular member in good standing from applying for Associate Membership.
Ladies Auxiliary
A Ladies Auxiliary to the United States Submarine Veterans Inc. has been established and is known as “Ladies Auxiliary of the United States Submarine Veterans, Incorporated.”, AKA "SubVettes". Any Base may adopt an Auxiliary at their own discretion; however, the adopted USSVI Bylaws must be approved by the District Commander prior to implementation. Membership in the Ladies Auxiliary must be limited to USSVI or SVWWII member’s Wives, Widows, Sisters, Mothers and Daughters not less than 16 years of age.Holland Club
Any Regular Member who has been designated “Qualified in Submarines” for fifty (50) years or more and who is either (a) a National Life Member in good standing, or (b) an annual member in good standing for five or more consecutive years, is eligible to become a member of the “Holland Club” within the organization. Holland Club members will pay no further National dues, but may be required to pay Base dues as per Base Bylaws.The Holland Club was named after John Philip Holland
John Philip Holland
John Philip Holland was an Irish engineer who developed the first submarine to be formally commissioned by the U.S...
an engineer
Engineer
An engineer is a professional practitioner of engineering, concerned with applying scientific knowledge, mathematics and ingenuity to develop solutions for technical problems. Engineers design materials, structures, machines and systems while considering the limitations imposed by practicality,...
who developed the first submarine
Submarine
A submarine is a watercraft capable of independent operation below the surface of the water. It differs from a submersible, which has more limited underwater capability...
to be formally commissioned
Ship commissioning
Ship commissioning is the act or ceremony of placing a ship in active service, and may be regarded as a particular application of the general concepts and practices of project commissioning. The term is most commonly applied to the placing of a warship in active duty with its country's military...
by the U.S. Navy.
Member-at-Large
The Base or National Membership Chairman may place any member, who once chooses, or is assigned to a Base, and who is a National Life Member or whose National annual dues are current, but whose Base dues are in arrears, in a category of Member-at-Large. Members-at-Large whose National Annual dues are current or who are National Life Members will retain National benefits (i.e. receipt of National magazine and voting on National issues). A Member-at-Large may affiliate with a Base at anytime by remitting Base dues. A Regular base member may transfer to Member-at-Large Status at any time by making a request to his affiliated base or to the National Membership Chair.Committees
- Membership
- Scholarship
- Ways and Means
- Long Range Planning
- Memorials and Ceremonies
- Public Relations and Publicity
- Nominations
- National Archives
- New Base Development
- Constitution and Bylaws
- Veterans Affairs
- Awards
- National Convention
- Base Commanders Group
- Technology
- Audit
Chartitable Funds
The USSVI Charitable Foundation (USSVCF) is administered by a Board of Directors made up of non-paid elected and appointed members. Expenses incurred by the Charitable Foundation are minimal and consist of expenses such as postage, certificates, website fees, stationary supplies, and informative brochures.The foundation was approved for tax exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code on December 5, 2000. To facilitate the many activities that may arise, the foundation is split into various dedicated funds.
- Brotherhood Funds
- Building Fund
- General Fund
- Memorial Funds
- Scholarship Funds
- Submarine Library Fund
- Submarine Museum Fund
American Submariner Magazine
The American Submariner is the quarterly magazine published by USSVI and is a major benefit that all USSVI members receive. The purpose of the magazine is to keep the membership informed of organizational events the latest developments in the U.S. Navy's Submarine force. It also honors tradition, heritage, and service of all submariners, who proudly earned the designation "Qualified in Submarines", by regularly featuring articles about submarines, their crews, and missions conducted during past eras of World War IIWorld War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
, Korean War
Korean War
The Korean War was a conventional war between South Korea, supported by the United Nations, and North Korea, supported by the People's Republic of China , with military material aid from the Soviet Union...
, Vietnam War
Vietnam War
The Vietnam War was a Cold War-era military conflict that occurred in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia from 1 November 1955 to the fall of Saigon on 30 April 1975. This war followed the First Indochina War and was fought between North Vietnam, supported by its communist allies, and the government of...
, and the First Gulf War.
In May 1969, the magazine Submarine National Review, came into existence to better establish communications and rapport within the submarine community, with Ken Walkington and Tom Rowan serving as co-editors. It was renamed American Submariner in December 1977. It reverted back to Submarine National Review in January 1979 but in July 1991 it was renamed yet again to American Submariner but it retained the subtitle of National Submarine Review until 2000.
National Conventions
Starting in 2014 National Conventions will only be held in even numbered years: 2014, 2016, 2018, etc.- 2013 Rochester, MinnesotaRochester, MinnesotaRochester is a city in the U.S. state of Minnesota and is the county seat of Olmsted County. Located on both banks of the Zumbro River, The city has a population of 106,769 according to the 2010 United States Census, making it Minnesota's third-largest city and the largest outside of the...
- 2012 Norfolk, VirginiaNorfolk, VirginiaNorfolk is an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States. With a population of 242,803 as of the 2010 Census, it is Virginia's second-largest city behind neighboring Virginia Beach....
- 2011 Springfield, MissouriSpringfield, MissouriSpringfield is the third largest city in the U.S. state of Missouri and the county seat of Greene County. According to the 2010 census data, the population was 159,498, an increase of 5.2% since the 2000 census. The Springfield Metropolitan Area, population 436,712, includes the counties of...
- 2010 Covington, KentuckyCovington, Kentucky-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 43,370 people, 18,257 households, and 10,132 families residing in the city. The population density was 3,301.3 people per square mile . There were 20,448 housing units at an average density of 1,556.5 per square mile...
, 30 August through 6 September 2010 - 2009 San Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and second-largest city in California. The city is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, immediately adjacent to the Mexican border. The birthplace of California, San Diego is known for its mild year-round...
- 2008 Fort Worth, TexasFort Worth, TexasFort Worth is the 16th-largest city in the United States of America and the fifth-largest city in the state of Texas. Located in North Central Texas, just southeast of the Texas Panhandle, the city is a cultural gateway into the American West and covers nearly in Tarrant, Parker, Denton, and...
- 2007 Seattle, WashingtonSeattle, WashingtonSeattle is the county seat of King County, Washington. With 608,660 residents as of the 2010 Census, Seattle is the largest city in the Northwestern United States. The Seattle metropolitan area of about 3.4 million inhabitants is the 15th largest metropolitan area in the country...
- 2006 Little Rock, ArkansasLittle Rock, ArkansasLittle Rock is the capital and the largest city of the U.S. state of Arkansas. The Metropolitan Statistical Area had a population of 699,757 people in the 2010 census...
- 2005 Kansas City, MissouriKansas City, MissouriKansas City, Missouri is the largest city in the U.S. state of Missouri and is the anchor city of the Kansas City Metropolitan Area, the second largest metropolitan area in Missouri. It encompasses in parts of Jackson, Clay, Cass, and Platte counties...
- 2004 Saratoga Springs, New YorkSaratoga Springs, New YorkSaratoga Springs, also known as simply Saratoga, is a city in Saratoga County, New York, United States. The population was 26,586 at the 2010 census. The name reflects the presence of mineral springs in the area. While the word "Saratoga" is known to be a corruption of a Native American name, ...
- 2003 Reno, NevadaReno, NevadaReno is the county seat of Washoe County, Nevada, United States. The city has a population of about 220,500 and is the most populous Nevada city outside of the Las Vegas metropolitan area...
- 2002 Duluth, MinnesotaDuluth, MinnesotaDuluth is a port city in the U.S. state of Minnesota and is the county seat of Saint Louis County. The fourth largest city in Minnesota, Duluth had a total population of 86,265 in the 2010 census. Duluth is also the second largest city that is located on Lake Superior after Thunder Bay, Ontario,...
- 2001 Peoria, IllinoisPeoria, IllinoisPeoria is the largest city on the Illinois River and the county seat of Peoria County, Illinois, in the United States. It is named after the Peoria tribe. As of the 2010 census, the city was the seventh-most populated in Illinois, with a population of 115,007, and is the third-most populated...
- 2000 Atlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City is a city in Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States, and a nationally renowned resort city for gambling, shopping and fine dining. The city also served as the inspiration for the American version of the board game Monopoly. Atlantic City is located on Absecon Island on the coast...
- 1999 Reno, NevadaReno, NevadaReno is the county seat of Washoe County, Nevada, United States. The city has a population of about 220,500 and is the most populous Nevada city outside of the Las Vegas metropolitan area...
- 1998 Hagerstown, MarylandHagerstown, MarylandHagerstown is a city in northwestern Maryland, United States. It is the county seat of Washington County, and, by many definitions, the largest city in a region known as Western Maryland. The population of Hagerstown city proper at the 2010 census was 39,662, and the population of the...
- 1997 Mobile, AlabamaMobile, AlabamaMobile is the third most populous city in the Southern US state of Alabama and is the county seat of Mobile County. It is located on the Mobile River and the central Gulf Coast of the United States. The population within the city limits was 195,111 during the 2010 census. It is the largest...
- 1996 Portland, OregonPortland, OregonPortland is a city located in the Pacific Northwest, near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers in the U.S. state of Oregon. As of the 2010 Census, it had a population of 583,776, making it the 29th most populous city in the United States...
- 1995 Manitowoc, WisconsinManitowoc, WisconsinManitowoc is a city in and the county seat of Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, United States. The city is located on Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Manitowoc River. According to the 2000 census, Manitowoc had a population of 34,053, with over 50,000 residents in the surrounding communities...
- 1994 Portsmouth, New HampshirePortsmouth, New HampshirePortsmouth is a city in Rockingham County, New Hampshire in the United States. It is the largest city but only the fourth-largest community in the county, with a population of 21,233 at the 2010 census...
- 1993 Vallejo, CaliforniaVallejo, CaliforniaVallejo is the largest city in Solano County, California, United States. The population was 115,942 at the 2010 census. It is located in the San Francisco Bay Area on the northeastern shore of San Pablo Bay...
- 1992 Norfolk, VirginiaNorfolk, VirginiaNorfolk is an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States. With a population of 242,803 as of the 2010 Census, it is Virginia's second-largest city behind neighboring Virginia Beach....
- 1991 Honolulu, HawaiiHonolulu, HawaiiHonolulu is the capital and the most populous city of the U.S. state of Hawaii. Honolulu is the southernmost major U.S. city. Although the name "Honolulu" refers to the urban area on the southeastern shore of the island of Oahu, the city and county government are consolidated as the City and...
- 1990 Montreal, Canada
- 1989 San Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and second-largest city in California. The city is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, immediately adjacent to the Mexican border. The birthplace of California, San Diego is known for its mild year-round...
- 1988 Rochelle Park, New JerseyRochelle Park, New JerseyRochelle Park is a township in Bergen County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the township population was 5,530....
- 1987 Albuquerque, New MexicoAlbuquerque, New MexicoAlbuquerque is the largest city in the state of New Mexico, United States. It is the county seat of Bernalillo County and is situated in the central part of the state, straddling the Rio Grande. The city population was 545,852 as of the 2010 Census and ranks as the 32nd-largest city in the U.S. As...
- 1986 Boston, Massachusetts
- 1985 Bremerton, WashingtonBremerton, WashingtonBremerton is a city in Kitsap County, Washington, United States. The population was 38,790 at the 2011 State Estimate, making it the largest city on the Olympic Peninsula. Bremerton is home to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and the Bremerton Annex of Naval Base Kitsap...
- 1984 Groton, ConnecticutGroton, ConnecticutGroton is a town located on the Thames River in New London County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 39,907 at the 2000 census....
- 1983 San Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and second-largest city in California. The city is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, immediately adjacent to the Mexican border. The birthplace of California, San Diego is known for its mild year-round...
- 1982 Montreal, Canada
- 1981 Portsmouth, New HampshirePortsmouth, New HampshirePortsmouth is a city in Rockingham County, New Hampshire in the United States. It is the largest city but only the fourth-largest community in the county, with a population of 21,233 at the 2010 census...
- 1980 Groton, ConnecticutGroton, ConnecticutGroton is a town located on the Thames River in New London County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 39,907 at the 2000 census....
- 1979 Elmont, New YorkElmont, New YorkElmont is an unincorporated census-designated place located in the northwest corner of the Town of Hempstead in Nassau County, New York, along its border with the borough of Queens in New York City...
- 1978 Honolulu, HawaiiHonolulu, HawaiiHonolulu is the capital and the most populous city of the U.S. state of Hawaii. Honolulu is the southernmost major U.S. city. Although the name "Honolulu" refers to the urban area on the southeastern shore of the island of Oahu, the city and county government are consolidated as the City and...
- 1977 San Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and second-largest city in California. The city is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, immediately adjacent to the Mexican border. The birthplace of California, San Diego is known for its mild year-round...
- 1976 Albuquerque, New MexicoAlbuquerque, New MexicoAlbuquerque is the largest city in the state of New Mexico, United States. It is the county seat of Bernalillo County and is situated in the central part of the state, straddling the Rio Grande. The city population was 545,852 as of the 2010 Census and ranks as the 32nd-largest city in the U.S. As...
- 1975 Atlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City is a city in Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States, and a nationally renowned resort city for gambling, shopping and fine dining. The city also served as the inspiration for the American version of the board game Monopoly. Atlantic City is located on Absecon Island on the coast...
- 1974 Hampton, VirginiaHampton, VirginiaHampton is an independent city that is not part of any county in Southeast Virginia. Its population is 137,436. As one of the seven major cities that compose the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, it is on the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula. Located on the Hampton Roads Beltway, it hosts...
- 1973 Highland, New YorkHighland, Sullivan County, New YorkHighland is a town in Sullivan County, New York, United States. The population was 2,404 at the 2000 census. The town's name notes its location on elevated ground north of the Delaware River. The town is in the southwest part of the county.- History :...
- 1972 San Juan, Puerto RicoSan Juan, Puerto RicoSan Juan , officially Municipio de la Ciudad Capital San Juan Bautista , is the capital and most populous municipality in Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. As of the 2010 census, it had a population of 395,326 making it the 46th-largest city under the jurisdiction of...
- 1971 Portsmouth, New HampshirePortsmouth, New HampshirePortsmouth is a city in Rockingham County, New Hampshire in the United States. It is the largest city but only the fourth-largest community in the county, with a population of 21,233 at the 2010 census...
- 1970 Chicago, Illinois
- 1969 Boston, Massachusetts
- 1968 Cherry Hill, North Carolina
- 1967 Hempstead, New YorkHempstead (village), New YorkHempstead is a village located in the town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, United States. The population was 53,891 at the 2010 census.Hofstra University is located on the border between Hempstead and Uniondale.-Foundation:...
- 1966 Groton, ConnecticutGroton, ConnecticutGroton is a town located on the Thames River in New London County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 39,907 at the 2000 census....
- 1965 New London, ConnecticutNew London, ConnecticutNew London is a seaport city and a port of entry on the northeast coast of the United States.It is located at the mouth of the Thames River in New London County, southeastern Connecticut....
- 1964 Atlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City, New JerseyAtlantic City is a city in Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States, and a nationally renowned resort city for gambling, shopping and fine dining. The city also served as the inspiration for the American version of the board game Monopoly. Atlantic City is located on Absecon Island on the coast...
Submarine articles
- Submarine warfareSubmarine warfareNaval warfare is divided into three operational areas: surface warfare, air warfare and underwater warfare. The latter may be subdivided into submarine warfare and anti-submarine warfare as well as mine warfare and mine countermeasures...
- Ballistic missile submarineBallistic missile submarineA ballistic missile submarine is a submarine equipped to launch ballistic missiles .-Description:Ballistic missile submarines are larger than any other type of submarine, in order to accommodate SLBMs such as the Russian R-29 or the American Trident...
- Deep Submergence VehicleDeep Submergence VehicleA Deep Sea Submergence Vehicle is a deep diving manned submarine that is self-propelled. The term DSV is generally one used by the United States Navy, though several navies operate vehicles that can be accurately described as DSVs...
- Submarines in the United States NavySubmarines in the United States NavyThere are two major types of submarines in the United States Navy: ballistic missile submarines and attack submarines. In the U.S. Navy, all combatant submarines are nuclear-powered. Ballistic subs have a single, strategic mission: carrying nuclear submarine-launched ballistic missiles...
- List of submarine actions
- List of submarine museums
- List of sunken nuclear submarines
- List of lost United States submarines