Shipmates,

Last week was extremely busy but also very rewarding.

The funeral for John Mansfield was moving and a great time of sharing stories about a man who lived a very well lived life. It was a reminder that family and friends are important.

On Saturday we had two concurrent events, with the Vice Commander Ileene Davis, Past Commander Steve Corcoran, Past Vice Commander Don Carpenter, WD04 Commander and Base Member Jim DeMott along with… founding base member Tudor Davis, attended the Blueback Base meeting and recaptured the Travelling Dolphins. This was particularly poignant as along with crew, John Mansfield’s vest was displayed. It was John who had founded the Travelling Dolphins program and he was there in spirit as we retook the Dolphins from the Portlanders.

The Travelling Dolphins will be displayed at our June Meeting (June 17th), at which time we hope to have a special presentation with the Mansfield family in honor of the return of the Travelling Dolphins.

Also on Saturday, eight Base members (plus a couple of spouses) attended the Irrigation Day Festival Grand Parade in Sequim. The Parade is a pretty big deal up there and the crowd was easily the biggest I have seen at a parade. The Float was very much enjoyed by the crowd, and the organizers are eager to have us back again next year.

This week, we have the Bremerton Armed Forces day Parade, which will also be the May General Meeting. As usual, we will muster along 6th Street at 0930 ready to begin the Parade. Let’s have a great turn out and a great parade in Bremerton!