Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have been assigned, attached, or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for thirty consecutive or for six... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have been assigned, attached, or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for thirty consecutive or for sixty non-consecutive days, or who meet the following criteria: Be engaged in combat during an armed engagement, regardless of the time in the area of elibility; Is wounded or injured in the line of duty and requires medical evacuation from the area of eligibility; While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, or within the area of eligibility in direct support of military operations. Each day that one or more sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one day toward the 30 or 60 day requirement; Personnel who serve in operations and exercises conducted in the area of eligibility are considered for the award as long as the basic time criteria are met. Due to the extensive time period for KDSM eligibility, the non-consecutive service period for eligibility remains cumulative throughout the entire period. The Area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the Republic of Korea, and the continuous water out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land and water areas. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Comments For professional acheivement in the superior performance of your duties while serving as the Assistant Officer in Charge of the Pacific Fleet Integrated Logistics Overhaul Team, Puget Sound from Janua... For professional acheivement in the superior performance of your duties while serving as the Assistant Officer in Charge of the Pacific Fleet Integrated Logistics Overhaul Team, Puget Sound from January 1983 to December 31 1984. Master Chief Petty Officer Sorrells distinguished himself as a superior manager, possessing exceptional professional skills and judgment. Your highly effective application of manpower and financial assets contributed significantly to the extremely successful completion of twelve logistic overhauls. Your ability to integrate the many individual subsystems and manage the efforts of 150 personnel while prudently planning future evolutions enabled ILO Puget Sound to significantly increase the readiness of Navy vessels returning to operations. Master Chief Petty Officer Sorrells' exceptional professional ability, initiative, and loyal dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
signed; James G. Storms, III
Rear Admiral, USN, Commander Naval Logistics Command, US Pacific Fleet MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Chain of Command
Assistant Officer in Charge of Integrated Logistics Overall Team (ILO), responsible for the overall supervision of military, civilian staff, and ship's force personnel performing ILO's in support of their ships, including surface, carriers and subs. Served as Master Chief Petty Officer of Command.
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Other Memories
Served as Master Chief Petty Officer of Command, Fleet testing and support of Terrier GMLS Mk 10 systems. Assistant Division Officer for Terrier Department personnel. Member of Health Care Consumers Council, Area Coordinators Drug Abuse Council.
Chain of Command
Leading Chief of third division. Responsible for the operation and maintenance of two Guided Missile Launching Systems(GMLS)(Mk10 Mod5/6), ships armory and associated ammunition, magazines, and sprinkler systems. Guard force Petty Officer in charge of training ship's Guard Force. Member of Personnel Reliability Program (PRP), SERT Board, and supervisor of Special Weapons Handling Team.
Other Memories
From Commanding Officer, USS Reeves (CG-24) To GMCM Roger L Sorrells, USN, XXX-XX-0678 Subj: Letter of Appreciation (9 June 1980) 1. This letter of appreciation is awarded to you for your significant contributions which has enabled the USS Reeves to most successfully complete the 1980 deployment to the Western Pacific. Through your superb dedication to duty the USS Reeves has been able to complete an extended period of operations in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea in direct support of the United States' interest in the Middle East. While enrout our homeport, additional tasking in support of the Korean Contingency Operations has required the current deployment to be extended. You rapidly and cheerfully adjusted to this additional tasking, and your performance did not dimminish despite the extension. During the 1980 deployment you were required to be underway more than 90 percent of the time and you responded to this extremely high tempo of operations in a most cheerful, totally professional manner. Your superior devotion to duty and totally outstanding performance which directly contributed to the USS Reeves' completion of assigned missions are greatly appreciated. I extend my personal thanks to you for a job well done. signed; J.W. Egerton Captain, US Navy Commanding Officer --------------------------------------------
From: Commanding Officer, USS Reeves (CG-24) To: GMCM Roger L Sorrells, USN, XXX-XX-0678 Subj: Letter of Commendation (1 April 1981) 1. This Letter of Commendation is presented for outstanding performance of duty while attached to and serving in USS Reeves (CG-24) as a Security Guard Force Supervisor and Administrator. 2. During our recent Security Inspection you have carried out your duties as a Security Guard Force Administrator in a very highly proffesional manner. In addition to your normal duties you have put in many extra hours in training the ship's Security Guard Force and maintaining all of the associated records. Your knowledge and professionalism as one of the Security Guard Force Administrators made you an extremely valuable asset to this command and the Naval Service. You can be proud of your efforts in support of the successful and outstanding accomplishments of Reeves during our security inspections. 3. Congratulations and Well Done! signed; J.W. Egerton --------------------------------------------
From: Commanding Officer, USS Reeves (CG-24) To: GMCM Roger L Sorrells, USN, XXX-XX-0678 Subj: Letter of Appreciation (1 April 1981) 1. I would like to express my appreciation to you for the dedicated service you contributed toward the highly successful completion of the Defense Surity Inspection conducted 19-20 January 1981. 2. Your untireing efforts, beginning with preparations in Spetember, enabled USS Reeves (CG-24) to pass the inspection in a superlative manner. As part of the Terrier Handling Team you were very definately a positive force in the effective demonstrations of Reeves' special weapons handling capabilities. 3. Your positive attitude and actions are indicative of the fine job you are doing onboard USS Reeves. Thank you for your efforts. signed; J.W. Egerton
Criteria
The Navy "E" Ribbon denotes permanent duty on ships or in squadrons that won the battle efficiency competition after July 1, 1974.
Description Commanding Officer, USS Reeves (CG-24) takes pleasure in recognizing the extraordinary contribution of Gunner's Mate Master Chief Roger L. Sorrells towards receipt of the Battle Efficiency Award for 1... Commanding Officer, USS Reeves (CG-24) takes pleasure in recognizing the extraordinary contribution of Gunner's Mate Master Chief Roger L. Sorrells towards receipt of the Battle Efficiency Award for 1980.
Battle "E"..................................For the period 1 January 1979 to 30 June 1980, USS Reeves was awarded the Battle Efficiency "E" for outstanding readiness and performance. During this period, USS Reeves participated in Fleet Operations which included a deployment to the Indian Ocean during which Reeves spent 86 consecutive days at sea. At all times Reeves maintained a level of performance which is to be envied by every warship in the Pacific Fleet. Your individual effort contributed to the teamwork and professionalism necessary for this award.......................
I take great pride and pleasure in commending you for a job WELL DONE.
signed:
J.W. Egerton
Captain, U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Expeditionary Medal is awarded to Navy personnel who have landed on foreign territory and engaged in operations against armed opposition or who have operated under circumstances deemed to mer... The Navy Expeditionary Medal is awarded to Navy personnel who have landed on foreign territory and engaged in operations against armed opposition or who have operated under circumstances deemed to merit special recognition and for which no campaign medal has been awarded. MoreHide
Description
Iran / Indian Ocean 21 Nov 79 - 20 Oct 81
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY COMMANDER FLEET TRAINING GROUP PEARL HARBOR FPO SAN FRANCISCO 96610
IN REPLY REFER TO: FF8-6/PH/00:mlk 1650 7 February 1977
From: Commander Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor To: GMCS Roger L. SORRELLS, USN, XXX-XX-0678 Subj: U. S. Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation; award of Encl: (l) Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon and Citation 1. On 7 February 1977, Admiral 0. W. Siler, USCG, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, personally awarded the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation to Commander Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor on behalf of those personnel who served with Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor during the period 1 May 1975 to 31 January 1976. 2. You can be justly proud of your accomplishments and your part in the achievement of this special recognition, the reasons for which are detailed in enclosure (1). CORNELIUS J/CARMODY
3. Enclosure (1) is forwarded with my sincere personal congratulations and appreciation. --------------------------------------------
THE COMMANDANT OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD WASHINGTON 2O59O
The Commandant of the Coast Guard takes pleasure in presenting the COAST GUARD MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION to U.S. NAVY FLEET TRAINING GROUP PEARL HARBOR, HAWAII for service as set forth in the following CITATION: "For meritorious service in support of the U.S. Coast Guard military readiness mission in the Pacific Area from 1 May 1974 to 31 January 1976. Personnel of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor constantly demonstrated an exceptionally high caliber of professional knowledge in all areas of military readiness which they willingly and continually shared with various Coast Guard units. During shakedown and refresher training, Coast Guard Training, in the classroom and at any other time assistance was requested, the shipriders, instructors and liaison personnel responded aggressively and enthusiastically. As a result of the superior quality of indoctrination provided by personnel of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor, Coast Guard units in the Pacific Area and the Fourteenth Coast Guard District in particular, have achieved and maintained a high level of military readiness. The diligence, initiative and unwavering devotion to duty displayed by personnel of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Navy. All personnel attached to and serving with U.S. Navy Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii during the above designated period are hereby authorized to wear the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon.
0. W. SILER Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard
Chain of Command
Combat systems missile and gunnery instructor / observer in the training of shipboard personnel during refresher training. Missile/Gunnery leading chief Petty Officer and Division Officer due to training schedule of command. Master Chief Petty Officer of Command.
Other Memories
COMTRACMDPACFLT November 6, 1978 Commending GMCM Roger L. Sorrells........... For outstanding achievement as set forth in the following: It is with pleasure that I commend you for your outstanding performance as Weapons Underway Instructor and Acting Division Officer at Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor from August 1975 to November 1978. During this period, you have performed your duties with a high sense of professionalism effectively applying your vast professional knowledge. By consistently demonstrating superior managerial skills, you have insured that the various training requirements for the many ships undergoing refresher training were met. As a result, Mid-Pacific units have received enthusiastic and expert training, significantly contributing to their overall readiness. Numerious letters from commanding officers have attested to your devotion to duty and professional expertise during the training of their ships. I recognize the excellence of your extensive professional achievements and take great pleasure in extending my best wishes for continued success and my congradulations for a job "Well Done". signed: Allen E. Hill Rear Admiral, US Navy
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Description For meritorious service in support of the US Coast Guard military readiness mission in the Pacific Area from 1 May 1974 to 31 January 1976. Personell of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor constantly d... For meritorious service in support of the US Coast Guard military readiness mission in the Pacific Area from 1 May 1974 to 31 January 1976. Personell of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor constantly demonstrated an exceptionally high caliber of professional knowledge in all areas of military readiness which they willingly and continually shared with various Coast Guard units. During shakedown and refresher training, Coast Guard Training, in the classroom and at any other time assistance was requested, the shipriders, instructors and liaison personnel responded aggressively and enthusiatically. As a result of the superior quality of indoctrination provided by personnel of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor, Coast Guard units in the Pacific Area and the Fourteenth Coast Guard District in particular, have achieved and maintained a high level of readiness. The diligence, initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty displayed by personnel of Fleet Training Group, Pearl Harbor reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Navy.
sigbed; O.W. Siler
Admiral, US Coast Guard MoreHide
Chain of Command
BuPers (2161) Enlisted detailer of GMM & GMT personnel E7 and below.
Other Memories
From: Master Chief Petty Officer of the Command, Naval Administrative Unit, Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico 87115 To: Bureau of Naval Personnel (Per-B2) (RADM Watkins) Subj: Career Information and Planning 1. The Naval personnel at the Nuclear Weapon School, Kirtland Air Force Base would like to express our sincere appreciation for the genuine concern in reguard to assignment of personnel upon closure of the Nuclear Weapons School. 2: The sincere, devoted, and dedicated men of the GM Rating Control Shop (Pers-B2161) not only considered the needs of the service, but the personal needs, feelings and desires of the individual when making assignments. It is concern such as this that makes the "person" in personnel mean something and results in enhanced career retentionand outstanding morale. 3. It is hoped that this letter will express our feeling of a job well done! signed; Robert E. Kiscaden, Jr. GMTCM, USN
First endorsement: From: Chief, Joint Weapons Division, Nuclear Weapons School, Kirtland AFB, New Mexico 1. The sincere consideration demonstrated by the GM Rating Control Office is commendable. Not only has the best interest of the Navy been served but to a man all feel they sre getting the best assignment available. Such spirit of concern is a professional mark bearing emulation going far to establish an atmosphere supporting highest retention. signed; W.L. Born, CDR, USN
Second Endorsement: From Deputy Commandant, NWS, FCDNA, Kirtland AFB,New Mexico 87115 1. Forwarded with great pleasure. 2. As the senior naval officer attached to the Nuclear Weapons School, I find that I take much personal pride in the smooth, efficient reassignment of Navy personnel during the closing of this joint command. The personal interest and consideration shown each man and his problems are obvious to even the most casual observer. signed; R.W. Shannon CAPT, USN Deputy Commandant
Third Endorsement: From: Commandant, NWS,FCDNA, Kirtland AFB, New Mexico 87115 1. The disruption of personal plans and the required changes to established routine that are attendant to the dissolution of any orginazation are seldom pleasant, but the fine Navy response in this situation has helped maintain moral at a remarkably high level. It is a distinct pleasure to forward such a heartfelt letter of appreciation for a job well done. signed; Howard W. Gorler Colonel, GS Commandant
Fourth Endorsement: From: Commanding Officer, Naval Administrative Unit, Field Command, Defense Nuclear Agency, Kirtland AFB, New Mexico 87115 1. Forwarded with pleasure 2. The initative and enthusiasm displayed by the GM Rating Control Section reflects the obvious pride in the caliber of Service they provide their shipmates. Their understanding of today's "people oriented" Navy has contributed immensely to the moral and efficient reassignment of our GMT personenel. signed; G.S. Brookes
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Other Memories
UNITED STATES SEVENTH FLEET The Commander Seventh Fleet takes pleasure in commending Roger Leon SORRELLS Chief Gunner's Mate United States Navy for service as set forth in the following: CITATION "For outstanding performance of duty while attached to and serving in USS FOX (DLG-33) as Chief Gunner's Mate Missiles from 1 January to 31 October 1970 during combat operations. Chief Petty Officer SORRELLS consistently performed his duties in an outstanding manner. Through his leadership, initiative and devotion to duty, he maintained the Missile Launching System in an outstanding manner, contributing to the high state of readiness of the ship. Chief Petty Officer SORRELLS' skill and judgment contributed significantly and directly to the successful accomplishment of the ship's mission and to the United States' effort in Vietnam."
Criteria The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in th... The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in the Marine Corps) and below who have actively participated in ground or surface combat. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Other Memories
Student GM "B" school April 8, 1968 - September 13, 2008. Graduated early in order to board USS Fox (DLG-33) before its' deployment to Vietnam area of operations.
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Description Yankee Station was a point in the Gulf of Tonkin off the coast of Vietnam used by the U.S. Navy aircraft carriers of Task Force 77 to launch strikes in the Vietnam War. While its official designation Yankee Station was a point in the Gulf of Tonkin off the coast of Vietnam used by the U.S. Navy aircraft carriers of Task Force 77 to launch strikes in the Vietnam War. While its official designation was "Point Yankee," it was universally referred to as Yankee Station. Carriers conducting air operations at Yankee Station were said to be "on the line" and statistical summaries were based on days on the line.
The name derived from it being the geographic reference point "Y", pronounced "Yankee" in the NATO phonetic alphabet. In turn the term Point Yankee derived from the launch point for "Yankee Team" aerial reconnaissance missions over Laos conducted in 1964. It was located about 190 km due east of Dong Hoi, at 17° 30' N and 108° 30' E.
During the two periods of sustained air operations against North Vietnam (March 2, 1965-October 31, 1968 and March 30, 1972-December 29, 1972) there were normally three carriers on the line, each conducting air operations for twelve hours, then off for twelve hours. One of the carriers would operate from noon to midnight, another from midnight to noon, and one during daylight hours, which gave 24-hour coverage plus additional effort during daylight hours, when sorties were most effective. However at the end of May, 1972, six carriers were for a short period of time on the line at Yankee Station conducting Linebacker strikes.
The first aircraft carrier at Yankee Station was USS Kitty Hawk, which was ordered there in April 1964 for the Yankee Team missions. Kitty Hawk was joined by Ticonderoga in May and Constellation in June, two months prior to the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution. Ticonderoga and Constellation launched the first bombing missions from Yankee Station on August 5, 1964. Constellation was also the last carrier conducting operations at Yankee Station on August 15, 1973. USS Forrestal suffered a major accident while at Yankee Station when a series of fires and explosions on her deck killed 134 men and injured another 161.
A corresponding Dixie Station in the South China Sea off the Mekong Delta was a single carrier point for conducting strikes within South Vietnam from May 15, 1965 to August 3, 1966.... More
Memories Commander Seventh Fleet takes pleasure in commending: Roger Leon Sorrells, Chief Gunner's Mate, UnitCommander Seventh Fleet takes pleasure in commending: Roger Leon Sorrells, Chief Gunner's Mate, United States Navy for service as set forth in the following CITATION "For outstanding performance of duty while attached to and serving in USS Fox (DLG-33)as Chief Gunners Mate Missiles from 1 January to 31 October 1970 during combat operations. Chief Petty Officer SORRELLS consistenly performed his duties in an outstanding manner. Through his leadership, initiative and devotion to duty, he maintained the Missile Launching System in an outstanding manner, contributing to the high state of readiness of the ship. Chief Petty Officer SORRELLS' skill and judjment contributed significantly and directly to the successful accomplishment of the ships mission and to the United States' effort in Vietnam." signed: M. F. Weisner Vice Admiral United States Navy... More
Other Memories
GMLS Terrior MK-10 Mod 7 differences course required to instruct Missile Weapon Officers course at Guided Missile School Mare Island, Vallejo, CA
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Best Friends
John Wilson GM2 (Deceased) Darel Harmon GM2 (Deceased) Hendrix GM1 King (Ski) GM1
Best Moment
Advancing from 3rd class GM to 1st class GM in three years. Getting orders to Gunnery B School at Great Lakes, Ill. and then training for Guided Missile Launching System MK-10.
Worst Moment
After loading about 50 tons of dry milk , in Alexandrea Egypt, destined for Mombassa Kenya, we tangled with a cargo ship in preparation to transit the Suez Canal. Our starboard screw traveled up several feet of the cargo ships port anchor chain, when the civilian pilot onboard ordered full speed ahead when we were drifting toward the cargo ship. We were lifted out of the water as our starboard screw walked up the chain until it broke. The loose chain slammed back onto our faintail where the sea and anchor detail were standing. Fortunately no one got hurt. As a result of this misshapp, we had to remain in the straits until a sister ship came up from the Red Sea so we could transfer all the dry milk to it. Enough anchor chain was pulled up by using our after 5"/38cal twin gun mount as a winch, and civilian divers cutting with torches underwater, and laid onto the fantail, so we could transit to Malta using ony one screw, to replace the damaged starboard screw. I think we were there about two weeks in a floating dry dock.
Other Memories
The Cold War Years 1959 To 1962
1959
On May 8 Soley began a two-week operation with USS Essex and USS Saratoga off the Florida Coast returning to Norfolk in mid-May. Soley then participated in INTEX exercises in the South Atlantic with a visit to Mayport, Florida for the Memorial Day weekend. The ship returned to the Norfolk area in early June to participate in TRAMIDLEX, an amphibious exercise involving midshipmen. During this period Soley was involved in a collision with a whale which severely damaged her sonar dome, requiring replacement at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard beginning on July 1st.
On August 15 CDR Richard Flournoy, Jr. assumed duties as Commanding Officer of Soley.
On September 11 Commander Destroyer Flotilla FOUR presented Soley with the Battle Efficiency "E" for 1959. This was the second consecutive year that Soley received this award. At the same time the ship received the DESLANT Operations Department "E" and the Communications "C" for excellence.
The remainder of 1959 was devoted to Hunter-Killer ASW operations along the Atlantic Coast until December when the ship returned to Norfolk for the holiday period.
1960
April and May found Soley conducting operations in the Virginia Capes area with Task Group 83.4, one of the COMASWDEFORLANT anti-submarine warfare commands. Following this tour the ship took part in the 1960 Midshipmen Cruise with port visits to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and New York City.
August found Soley along the Atlantic Coast developing hold-down tactics in anti-submarine operations, again operating with Task Group 83.4, USS Lake Champlain (CVS-39), and USS Wasp (CVS-18). The ship also underwent an INSURV inspection during this period.
During the remainder of 1960 Soley operated in the Cape Canaveral area with USS Patrick Henry (SSBN-599) conducting Polaris missile tests. She witnessed the first successful firing of four Polaris missiles from a submerged submarine.
1961
On January 9 Soley was underway for Operation Springboard 61 during which she visited ports in San Juan, Puerto Rico and Port Everglades, Florida. Upon return to the Norfolk area in February, Soley entered the Norfolk Naval Shipyard for her regularly scheduled overhaul and was fitted with new air search radar, torpedo tubes, and sonar gear.
With overhaul completed in May, Soley was enroute to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for refresher training when her Division was ordered to the Dominican Republic area on June 3rd for possible evacuation operations resulting from the assassination of Rafael Trujillo, longtime dictator of the Republic.
During 1961, CDR Oscar N. Hibler, Jr. assumed command of Soley. CDR Hibler was a native of Houston, Texas, a graduate of Rice Institute, and attended the University of Texas. Recently was assigned to the Office of Legislative Affairs in Washington.
The ship returned to Norfolk on August 1 for a pre-deployment tender availability and inspection before leaving once again for the Mediterranean Sea and duty with the Sixth Fleet on September 8. Enroute to the "Med", Soley visited Ponta Del Gada, Azores and a long list of ports in the Mediterranean including Crete, Malta, Naples, Genoa, Athens, and Alexandria, Egypt.
1962
The beginning of the year found Soley deployed to the Middle East for a two-month tour. A visit to Massawa, Eritrea gave the Soley the opportunity to participate in ceremonies honoring Emperor Haile Selassie during his visit to attend graduation exercises at the Ethiopian Naval Academy. While in the Persian Gulf, Soley received a distress call from the S.S. Prima Maersk that had sustained a flash fire in her engine room. The ship responded to the call and was alongside the stricken vessel within two hours. An injured crewman of the merchantman was taken aboard for transportation to medical facilities in Bahrain. The Middle East tour was completed in March after port visits to Saudi Arabia, Iran, Aden and Das Island, Trucial Oman.
Upon returning to the Mediterranean, Soley visited Golf Juan, France before returning to Norfolk with other ships of Destroyer Squadron TWO. After only a week in her home port the ship was underway to participate in a review by President John F. Kennedy, followed by gunfire support operations during amphibious exercises on Onslow Beach, N.C.
Throughout the ensuing summer of 1962, Soley operated in the Virginia Capes area and also participated in a special NASA operation in connection with LCDR Scott Carpenter's earth orbit. The ship made a visit to Providence, Rhode Island on July 4th and later had twenty-day shipyard availability for installation of new equipment.
I departed for my next assignment to Great Lakes IL. for advanced Gunners Mate School.
Chain of Command
Student Gunners Mate "B" school (16 weeks) 6 June 1962- 21 Sept 1962 Basic electricity, electronics, and hydraulics instruction. Followed by GM "C" school GMLS Mk 10 (24 weeks) 24 Sept 1962 - 22 March 1963 Instructions in operation and maintenance of Terrier Guided Missile Launching System Mk 10 Mods 5&6.
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Other Memories
Re-enlisted as Petty Officer 3rd Class broken service, received new seabag, assigned Shore Patrol from May 15 to June 7, 1959. Received orders to USS Soley DD-707 Norfolk VA.
Other Memories
Separated from service August 6, 1958 and did not re-enlist within 90 days to retain Petty Officer Second Class. Went home to North Carolina. Stayed out 9 months before re-enlisting in May 1959 as Petty Officer 3rd Class.
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The China Service Medal was awarded to Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel who: Served ashore in China or who were attached to any of the vessels that operated in support of the operations in... The China Service Medal was awarded to Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel who: Served ashore in China or who were attached to any of the vessels that operated in support of the operations in China between July 7, 1937, and September 7, 1939; or who Served ashore in China or were attached to any of the vessels that operated in support of operations in China between September 2, 1945 and April 1, 1957. Military services performed in the Asiatic-Pacific area between September 2, 1945 and March 2, 1946 could be credited for eligibility for the China Service Medal unless the individual was eligible for the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal based on service performed prior to September 2, 1945. MoreHide
Best Moment
Liberty in Chicago, and Graduation day
Worst Moment
On grinder with M-1 piece at extended arms, holding
that position for about 30 min it seemed. Company commander EN1 Perry had to go to headquarters for a chewing out, and took it out on the company.
Other Memories
CC Perry requested that all of the company donate whatever money they could so he could pay for spouse hospitalization. He used it to get drunk. One fella didn't contribute and the CC took him to his office and beat him up. Gave him 600 demerits and set him back two companies. Poor guy wound up being the ACC of that company and won every flag and pennant that one could get in Boot Camp.
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Assistant Officer in Charge of Integrated Logistics Overall Team (ILO), responsible for the overall supervision of military, civilian staff, and ship's force personnel performing ILO's in support of their ships, including surface, carriers and subs. Served as Master Chief Petty Officer of Command.