LEADERSHIP AWARDS AND PRE-CEREMONY PARTY 16-17 SEPTEMBER 2025
This image was taken at the USS GONZALEZ commissioning ceremony in 1996.
The 2025 Leadership Awards for USS GONZALEZ will be presented on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, on board GONZALEZ in Norfolk, VA. Al Konetzni (36th Company) will represent the Class and make the presentations. Consistent with previous award presentations, the ceremony will begin at 1100 with lunch in the Wardroom after the ceremony.
’66 Classmates are encouraged to attend as the CO and the entire Crew display the utmost courtesy and hospitality to members of The Class during our visit to GONZALEZ.
Charlie Votava (17th Company) is the POC for the Tidewater/Norfolk area. Please contact him or Chuck Grutzius (33rd Company) with any questions.
UPDATE ON 2 EVENTS CELEBRATING THE GONZALEZ AWARDS
Wednesday, 16 September 1700-2000 (5-8 pm)
Trudy Hoff, widow of Mick Hoff (29th Company), has graciously offered to host the class gathering at her lovely home. NOTE: address will be provided to attendees.
Thursday, 17 September 1100
VADM Al Konetzni will present the awards on board USS GONZALEZ, Naval Station Norfolk, VA, at 1100 on 17 September. We are normally invited to coffee, introductions and conversation with CO, XO, CMC, prior to proceeding to the fantail for the ceremony, which is followed by lunch in the Wardroom. Attendance at this ceremony is encouraged as the CO and the entire Crew display the utmost courtesy and hospitality to members of The Class during our visit to GONZALEZ.
IMPORTANT NOTES
RSVPs for each event must be sent to Charlie Votava NO LATER THAN COB Tuesday, 2 September. This date will allow sufficient time to complete planning for Tuesday evening and to coordinate with GONZALEZ Action Officer participation in the onboard ceremony.
MOBILITY should be considered regarding participation in the Wednesday onboard GONZALEZ ceremony. Those attending the onboard ceremony will have to navigate two levels of interior ships ladders plus a third ladder to/from the fantail as well ascending/descending the brow to/from the pier and Quarterdeck.
For Out of Town Attendees: Charlie Votava can provide information on local hotel, Navy Lodges and MWR oceanfront condo reservations.
For more information on The Class of 1966 Leadership Awards, Click HERE.
