News & Events

News, Events & More

Jim Galvin Shares Info on VA Entitlements to 1966 Wives

Posted: 10/19/2023

On 18 October, Classmate Jim Galvin presented information on VA entitlements to a group of ’66 wives. Click HERE for a recording of the Zoom presentation.

Wreaths Across America

Posted: 10/2/2023

Dear Alumni, 

Every year, on a crisp December morning, the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis Maryland comes alive with the spirit of remembrance. It’s a day when thousands of fresh evergreen wreaths, each adorned with a scarlet bow, are lovingly placed on the graves of fallen heroes. This solemn event, known as Wreaths Across America, carries immense significance, not only for our nation but also for individuals like myself. Allow me to share a personal story that highlights the profound impact of this cherished tradition, and why your support is crucial.

As a Navy wife I have known many lost in service to this country, their selflessness and commitment to defending our freedom left an indelible mark on my life. The Naval Academy ceremony is a powerful tribute to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Walking among rows of gravestones, adorned with wreaths, I experienced an overwhelming sense of gratitude and respect for the fallen heroes. Each wreath represented a life lived, dreams unfulfilled, and a legacy that would forever endure. It was during that poignant moment that I realized the immense importance of supporting Wreaths Across America.

Your support can help carry forward this tradition of honor as we collectively stand united to remember our fallen heroes. Consider the impact your donation can make, not only on the families and friends of the fallen but also on the generations to come. Together we can preserve the integrity of the Naval Academy ceremony and pay homage to those who gave everything to our country.

The Naval Academy ceremony, made possible through Wreaths Across America, holds a special place in the hearts of countless individuals touched by the sacrifices of our brave servicemen and women. It is through our collective effort that we can ensure their memories live on and inspire future generations. Join us in the noble cause and let us demonstrate that the spirit of remembrance can heal hearts, forge connections, and honor the heroes who have shaped our nation’s history.

To Donate, click on this link:  www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/md0011

By using the above link for every 2 wreaths purchased the cemetery will get a free one.

Many other options are available to send more, or less. If you have any issues, please contact me at the numbers listed below. Wreaths are $17 each, when you purchase two the free one will be applied automatically by using the link above. You may not see this, but, I will, if you would like to confirm please contact me.

All are welcome to the wreath laying on Friday December 1, 2023 Time to be determined usually 08:30 or 09:00. You may sign up to volunteer for this event on that same link, by doing so you will get the latest information as to the time and parking.

Or mail check to:  Wreaths Across America
PO Box 249
Columbia Falls, ME 04623
Write MD0011 on the memo line of your check for USNA to get credit.

Thank you for your help, we cannot accomplish this without your donations.

Carol Turman
Coordinator, Wreaths Across America USNA
2430 Kemper Rd
Crofton, MD 21114
c-443-336-6541
h-410-451-4490

GONZALEZ Awards Update

Posted: 9/27/2023

The 2023 Class ’66 USS GONZALEZ (DDG 66) Leadership Awards will be presented on-board Wednesday, 26 October. For background and previous recipients of this prestigious award, Click HERE.

There will be two (2) events, both require RSVP by 8 October to Charlie Votava (CharlieVots17@gmail.com), the on-board awards ceremony, 1030 Wednesday 26 October, and, the 25 October evening reception.

USS GONZALEZ Awards Ceremony 26 Oct 2023

Posted: 9/20/2023

This year’s Leadership Awards Ceremony for USS GONZALEZ will be held on Thursday, 26 Oct 2023, at approximately 1130 hours on board USS GONZALEZ at Norfolk Naval Station. John Sigler will be representing The Class of 1966 and will present the awards.

The Officers and Crew of GONZALEZ are always very gracious hosts and welcome members of The Class of 1966. After the ceremony will be lunch in the Wardroom.

Additional details will be forthcoming as the SOE is firmed up by the Ship.

As before, Charlie Votava will be the POC in the Tidewater Area for Classmates. Questions? Contact Chuck Grutzius at elexsys.cg@att.net.

Letter to Classmates

Posted: 9/13/2023

Class President, Scott Redd, looks to the past and shares plans on new initiatives designed expressly for ’66 Classmates and their families. Click HERE to read Scott’s September 2023 letter.

Class Financial Report CY2022

Posted: 9/12/2023

Our Class Treasurer, Chuck Grutzius, has submitted the Class Financial Report for CY2022. Here is a summary:

The Class ended CY2022 with Total Assets of $56,709.76. Included in the Total Assets were Nunna’s Funds of $21,719.35. 

Thus, the monies included in the Total Assets above are as follows:

Class Funds: $34,990.41
Nunna’s Funds: $21,719.35
Total Assets: $56,709.76

The Class at the end of CY2022 was in very good financial condition and continues to be in 2023. The Class of 1966 is a current and valid IRS 501.c.19 Veterans Organization in good standing, and contributions to The Class are tax deductible as permitted by IRS Regulations.

Should any Classmate have any questions about this Financial Statement, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Fraternally Yours in Service, 

Chuck Grutzius
Treasurer // Class of 1966

2024 Comearound Plans Announced

Posted: 9/8/2023

Reserve 23-25 April for a Flip Flop Kickback in Jacksonville Beach, FL. More details are on the Events page or by clicking HERE.

Class Wellness Initiative Launched

The Class of 1966 launched an important new initiative during a classwide zoom on 17 August. This is a work in progress that will change and expand as appropriate to Classmates’ needs. The concept is to let our Classmate family use the experiences gained over the years to help others in the family. Rather than attempting to offer solutions, the site is intended to offer sailing directions to allow each of us to find his or her own solutions.

Click HERE to visit the Class Wellness webpages and to see the recording of the introductory zoom.

Navy Rugby and the Class of 1966

Posted: 8/16/2023

USNA 66 Classmates had a major impact on today’s winning USNA Rugby Team. The recent 9 August Class Lunch featured Rugby Head Coach Gavin Hickie and a surprise guest. Click HERE to read about the outcomes of this fascinating Class Lunch program.

17 August: Class-wide Meeting on ’66 Health Care Efforts

Posted: 8/7/2023

Classmates – On 17 August 2023, there will be a Class-wide Zoom meeting to discuss the ’66 Class Wellness effort. The time is 2:00 pm EDT, 1:00 pm CDT, Noon MDT, and 11:00 am PDT.

The Briefing will review our first steps in establishing a wellness site for the Class to address various life-related issues as we cross the 55+ anniversary bar. We have chosen the subject of VA benefits to kick off this project in the belief and understanding that this subject brings the greatest initial health and financial benefit to the Class and its families and involves the largest number of us directly and indirectly.  

Please take the time to join us for this presentation and discussion.  For those who cannot make this session, the presentation will be posted on the website.

Mike Baird sent the zoom link in an email on 27 July. If you did not receive the email, contact him at pmbaird@verizon.net.

• USNA Website
• NavySports.com

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