About the 59th NCB
This is the unofficial home of the 59th Naval Construction Battalion. After two years of searching I was finely able to locate the Seabee battalion my grandfather served with during World War II. This was no easy task and even now information is sparse, sometimes conflicting and always leaving me with more questions than answers.
I’ve have been fortunate in that while searching I was able to find members of the 59th Naval Construction Battalion still living and able to share valuable information about the 59th and their experiences.
I have built this site to document the service and history of those who served, those who live and those who have died, so their sacrifices and achievements will not be lost to time.
59thncb.wordpress.com 
November 22, 2008 at 8:26 pm |
My father, John Horstmann, also served in the 59th NCB. He’s passed away, but had many vivid memories of his time with the Seabees.
I have a group photo the members of Company C, Platoon 1 as wll as a copy of the 59th’s newletter that I’d be happy to share with you.
November 23, 2008 at 7:36 pm |
Rosemary, Thank you for your posting. I would love any pictures and information you might have. Sorry I did not respond faster but I was out of town working.
I’ve been working on a building a permanent web site for the 59th NCB that I hope to have up soon. Since I started this blog O have found all to the 59th records at the Seabee Museum that I will be compiling in to a Adobe PDF file so that I can post it electronically for people to access. Because I am a member of the CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation I was also able to get a large contact list of men who served with the 59th who are still living so I hope to begin interviewing after the holidays.
I was able to acquire a medallion that is about 6″ in diameter that has the Seabee Logo, at the top it say REMEMBERANCE and the bottom 59th Battalion” won it on EBAY not sure what it was for but I’m bring it to a the Seabee Museum next week in hope the curator can give me information. I post a picture of it.
Thank you for any and all information you might have I would love to see it and post it to the new web page for others to see as well.
Bill
November 23, 2008 at 7:48 pm |
Rosemary,
Thank you for your posting. I would love any pictures and information you might have. Sorry I did not respond faster but I was out of town working.
I’ve been working on a building a permanent web site for the 59th NCB that I hope to have up soon. Since I started this blog I have found all to the 59th records at the Seabee Museum that I will be compiling in to an Adobe PDF file so that I can post it electronically for people to access. Because I am a member of the CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation I was also able to get a large contact list of men who served with the 59th who are still living so I hope to begin interviewing after the holidays.
I was able to acquire a medallion that is about 6″ in diameter that has the Seabee Logo, at the top it say REMEMBERANCE and the bottom 59th Battalion” won it on EBAY not sure what it was for but I’m bring it to a the Seabee Museum next week in hope the curator can give me information. I post a picture of it.
Thank you for any and all information you might have I would love to see it and post it to the new web page for others to see as well.
July 17, 2009 at 10:52 pm |
My father, Leon Mintzes, served with the 59th in Hawaii and on Guam. He trained with the battalion at Camp Perry Va.
He passed way in 1985. I have a bunch of memorabilia he brought home with him, including newspapers, photos, a newsletter published on Guam, as well as some other items.
I remember going to a few reunions with him and my mother when I was young. I recall one on Chicago and another in Baltimore, and there may have been one in Washington. I can scan some of the stuff I have and send it to you as pdf’s if you’re interested.
In addition, I have a copy of the diary of a Japanese soldier that someone in the battalion found or captured (I never knew the whole story) and had translated. I could make another copy and mail it to you.
July 28, 2009 at 9:18 pm |
David,
I have been looking like crazy for information on the 59th, I’ve spent tons of hours at the Seabee Museum digging though the archives. I would love any and all information you might have. I also have a box.net account that has a bunch of information I have collected, picture, documents, etc… if you would like access just let me know. usabaker@gmail.com
May 26, 2011 at 11:29 pm |
I am interested in the items you mention in your note. I would be delighted to pay you for any scans or photos, or I would give you a deposite and do the scans and photos in our offices. I father was Camp Perry, Big Island, Honolulu, Guam.
May 27, 2011 at 3:28 am
Hi Jim,
Welcome!!! no need to pay anything.. but if you have any items that you can share, photos, newspapers, pictures of objects he brought home or stories you were told about his service we would all love it. I have allot of stuff I’ve not posted yet because I just haven’t had time to sit down and work them. I will give you access to what we have posted on box.net so far, so you will receive and email shortly. you can contact me directly at usabaker@gmail.com
July 28, 2009 at 8:37 pm |
My father, Murray Manders (Mandelstein during the war) was a member of the 59th. Regrettably he died in 2007, age 82. He was 17 when he enlisted following high school graduation in 1943, so he was one of the younger men in the battalion.
I haven’t been through his papers in a while, but there is a fair amount of 59th info, such as copies of wartime and post wartime Fiftyniner newpapers, personal pictures on Guam, basketball team pictures, etc.
He attended numerous 59th conventions, I was even at one in Baltimore and also Philadelphia in the 1960’s.
By coincidence, I just found on line and ordered a used copy of the 59th NCB Roster issued in 1955. What information it has I do not know at this time.
Whatever information I can provide, let me know.
July 28, 2009 at 9:00 pm |
Hi Richard,
I would love a copy of your roster, pictures and any other data you might have. I have a box.net account that has all the information I have collected thus far if you want access just let me know. I have pictures, documents, roster and other items. I’ve bought a bunch of stuff off ebay and other sites that is 59th related and from the battles on Guam. The 59th landed with the 77th US Army on white beach in Guam, oddly (lucky) 59th did not loose any men they had only two deaths in the battalion while on GUAM one from a truck accident and the other was hit in the head by a rock that was protected into the sky while they were dynamiting. my personal email is usabaker@gmail.com
October 4, 2009 at 4:22 am |
Sorry I did not get back to you sooner. I wanted to scan some of the stuff I have, but my scanner died on me. I just finally got around to buying a new one (too busy at work, I guess) and will start scanning the stuff and sending it to the e-mail address you provided. If you can, would you send me the information on the box.net account. My e-mail address is: dmintzes@gmail.com
December 7, 2009 at 11:23 pm |
My father Elmer Gasiorowski served with the 59th from 1942 to 1945. He enlisted at at the young age of 17. He is 84 years young now and still kicking.
December 30, 2009 at 1:32 am |
Allen, that great that your father is still around. I would love to interview him if he wouldn’t mind. I have allot of questions and depending on where he lives I would love to make a video interview that can be submitted to the National Archives in Washington. (I’m a member of the American Legion and CEC/Seabee historical foundation. By the way; our foundation is building a new Seabee Museum you can buy a personalized brick that will be placed in the walk way that leads to the entrance forever as part of the beautiful Victory Plaza.
Go to this link to see more;
http://www.seabeehf.org/museum/preserve_legacy_brick.htm
My best to you and your family Happy New Year! Bill
December 29, 2009 at 11:10 pm |
Hi, Until about an hour ago I had never heard of the 59th Construction Battalion, but I was going through some of my aunt’s pictures and came across photos and a news article about the 59th. She was married to Woodrow (Woody) Estelle, from Lakewood, NJ during WWII (they divorced years later). The 8×10 group shot is of the 59th Company B, Platoon 3, Hawaiian Islands, September 1943. Also, I have a newspaper clipping from the Philadelphia Inquirer, October 11, 1943, of the Seabees form the Philadelphia area. I have many snapshots, unidentified, but would be willing to send everything to you, if you wish. They never had children together, and I don’t know if Woody did in later years; my aunt died in 1961. Please let me know how I can send these to you.
Happy New Year.
March 3, 2010 at 10:20 pm |
Hi Pat, I;m still interested in the NCB 59 stuff you have. I’m getting ready to launch a new website and I’m sure all the families of the the men who served in the 59th would love to have access to it.
Let me know and I will send you shipping money.
Thanks again
Bill Baker
November 16, 2019 at 4:01 am |
My father Al Purvin is likely in that article, as he was one of the local boys to Philadelphia in the 59th outfit.
January 31, 2010 at 9:09 pm |
Hi! My father, A.B. Cameron, served with the 59th NCB, on Guam, Saipan, and Tinian. He passed away on October 28th, 2000, at age 78. He was a very animated, and vocal supporter of our military, the Navy, and the VFW. (and our American way of life) He shared many stories with me, in his later years, about Navy life, and his experiences with the Seabees of the 59th. He was very proud, as am I, of his service, and the sacrifices made by all of his fellow service-members in every branch of service during World War Two. During his entire life, you could see by his actions that the war had a strong and positive effect on him. He never bought anything that wasn’t “Made in USA”, and adamantly refused to buy anything made in Japan! These days, we don’t think twice about it, thanks to the healing hands of time, and the forgiving nature of our culture. As a child of one of the “Greatest generation”, I’m proud to wave the Seabee flag, along with the stars and stripes, in my front yard! This is one “baby boomer” that will never forget! “Can Do” has always been my motto! the best way I can sum it up is: “Thank you, Dad!” I’ll be keeping an eye on this site, and please feel free to e-mail me any info about the 59th, pictures, stories, etc., that you would like to share. God bless the Seabees! Blair Cameron
March 3, 2010 at 10:15 pm |
Hi Blair, I’ve allot of 59th stuff and information on a box.net account but I will be publishing all of it and more to a new website I’m bulid soon. But for now if you want access to the box.net site just let me know an I will set it up.
Bill
November 3, 2011 at 12:23 am |
Blair, my father was in the 59th battalion 1942-1945 and also began the WWII in the Secong Highstep before battalions.
I would like to know if you have any pictures that he may be in.
BILLY HAYWOOD McCALEB
November 3, 2011 at 1:30 pm
Hi Steven, I’ve seen you dad’s name a number of times in the records of the fifty ninth, I’m in the process of moving right now so my computer is not connected at home and I’ve no internet access at home yet. As soon as I get back on-line I will dig though and see what I have on him. I’ve a number of pictures loaded on a box.net account that might have you dad in them. As soon as I can get to a hot spot I will send you the login information. I was a Seabee to 1977 ~ 1983 20th NCR and NMCB 2, My Dad is a retired Seabee MCB 17 and of course my grandfather in the 59th.
March 2, 2010 at 6:01 pm |
Hello… I am looking for info on the 82nd.
My deceased father-in-law was in Co. A, Plat. 7, Batt. 82. His name was
Frederick E. Senecal
My mother-in-law passed in Jan. and I just found letters that they wrote between them when he was in basic training in Jan 1943 at camp Endicott in RI.
Would anyone know of any info or web sites for the 82nd??
March 3, 2010 at 10:10 pm |
Hi Jennie! I’ll take a look for you next time I go to the Seabee Museum, Is there something in particular you want in the way of information? Here is the “short” history of the NCB 82.
82ND BATTALION
Commissioned at Camp Endicott Jan. 28, 1943, the 82nd Battalion spent two months at Endicott and three weeks at Gulfport before arriving at Port Hueneme April 28, 1943. Sailing from Hueneme on July 10, 1943, the outfit arrived at Guadalcanal, via Noumea, New Caledonia, on Aug. 19, 1943. On Aug. 29, a detachment was sent to Vella Lavella, and on Sept. 5 a small detachment was moved to Munda, New Georgia. Moving in five echelons, the outfit transferred to Ondonga, New Georgia, between Sept. 10 and 14. Moving in three echelons, the outfit arrived at Sterling in the Treasury Islands on Dec. 10, 11, 21, 1943. Meanwhile the group detached to Vella Lavella rejoined the outfit at Sterling Dec. 23. The outfit was transferred to Nepoui, New Caledonia August 1944, with two echelons arriving at Nepoui Sept. 1 and Sept. 30, 1944. During the winter several small detachments were detailed to the Russell Islands on temporary duty. On May 2, 1945, the outfit sailed from Nepoui and arrived at Eniwetok on May 11. The next stop was Ulithi, where the Battalion arrived on May 25. Sailing again on June 12, the outfit landed on Okinawa June 18. War’s end found them still there.
You can also contact the CEC/Seabee historical Foundation http://www.seabeehf.org/
Bill
March 5, 2010 at 6:46 pm |
Today I visited my father’s scrapbook from his years in WW II. He was in the 59th Naval Construction Battalian, Company B, Platoon 6. I have memorabilia to share including photos, etc. On the back of the photo with his Platoon are the names of all of the men with whom he served. My mother who is almost 90 is still alive, but my father passed away in l968. Let me know if there is anyone who can share more information about the men in his platoon and their experiences in Hawaii and Guam.
March 7, 2010 at 2:33 am |
Dr. Russel, Thank you so much for visiting 59th NCB page. I’m currently building a web page so that the memory of the 59th Naval Construction Battalion and those who served is not forgotten. I will also be build a CD/DVD “Cruse Book” for the 59th that I will place into the hand of the Seabee Museum in Port Hueneme CA and into the archives at the CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation where I am a Member so that the data would be accessible to all forever. ANY stories, Document, Pictures, Picture of memorabilia, etc.. would be more than welcome! I’m sure ALL would love to see it. I can provide you a link to the BOX.NET account where I have put some of the information collected thus far as well. If you don’t have time to scan or photograph the items you have I would be willing to do that for you and return the items.
Thank you again!
Bill Baker
May 21, 2016 at 12:36 am |
Dr. Russell: My father AA Johnson, Was in B Platoon in Hawaii and Guam. May I pay you for any copies of material on the Platoon? Cordially, James A. Johnson, 479-422-4332, PO Box 415 Johnson, AR 72741
July 7, 2018 at 2:59 am
Hi James, Pay me for what? This site is a tribute to the men of the 59th NCB. I take great joy in gathering and sharing what I find. The men, with whom my Grandfather served deserve a place where they are remembered and honored. If you would like to send me your email address I will give you access to a shared drive that had a lot of information and pictures from families and the SEABEE archives. send it to my usabaker@yahoo.com email address.
March 30, 2010 at 2:15 pm |
ROSEMARY KENNEDY :
MY BROTHER JOE ARILOTTA FOUHT UNDER YOUR DAD’S MANAGING IN THE 40’S I JUS HAPPENED TO LOOK AT THE 1941 MARCH ISSUE OF THE RING. AND READ WHERE YOUR DAD TRAINED HIM. I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE ANY PHOTOS AND CLIPPINGS YOU MAY HAVE. MY NAME : AL ARILOTTA.
1281 STONE RD
ROCHESTER, NY 14616
585-458-7030
MAILMAN2@ROCHESTER.RR.COM
I UNDERSTAND YOUR DAD WAS ALSO A GOOD WELTRERWEIGHT FIGHTER. PLEASE TRY TO SEND OR E-MAIL ME ANY PHOTOS YOU CAN.THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME . AL ARILOTTA
July 20, 2010 at 2:20 am |
Thank you for starting this web page! My father, Albert Sullivan served with the 59th NCB on Guam. I’ve periodically surfed the internet looking for more information, but it is indeed sparse.
As it turned out, during my hitch in the Navy, I was stationed on Guam from late 1969 until early 1971. I mailed him a photo-essay on Guam, which he really enjoyed.
I have some information, but most of it is second hand, via my now 91 year old mother (he passed away in 1998.) I do remember him showing me some photos from Guam, mostly of a group of men in a truck. I have one or two of him while he was there.
I recall the reunions for the “Fifty-Niners”, though I was quite young and didn’t attend.
There was even a fellow who served with him in my hometown, McCracken, I think his name was, who ran a small store across from my grammar school.
It may take some time to recall what I know, so please keep me informed!
Vern Sullivan
Orlando, FL
July 20, 2010 at 2:48 am |
Hi Vern! welcome to the site. I have been negligent in keeping it up dated but I do have an account on box.net where I have been storing collected items that I have found, that I have got from the official 59th NCB records and from people like you. I will send you and invites so you can access it. There are pictures and documents. Any stories you want to send will be a welcome addition as well as any picture or documents you can find as I plan to open a website for the 59th.
Thanks,
Bill Baker my email is usabaker@ gmail.com
August 31, 2010 at 6:22 pm |
My father, Cabell Burgess Massie served in the 59th. He passed away in 2005 and recently we have been researching his Navy experience. While my father talked about the Navy all through life, we are finding that there is a lot of missing information. I am interested in the 59th involvement in Tinian. I know my father was also in Guam, which he talked about often, and several years ago received a letter from the Governor of Guam inviting him back to celebrate Liberation Day. Any information that can be provided would be appreciated. Thanks.
August 31, 2010 at 6:51 pm |
Hi Keith, There are no official records of the men of the 59th working of landing on Tinian. That said there are story’s of a the 59th on Saipan and Tinian prior to the invasion of Guam. My Grandfather spoke of those to islands to my father; my father would get letters from my grandfather durring the war and in those letters he would tell my father the star constellations he could see. When my dad mapped out the constellations it showed that he was on Saipan, it is not a reach that they could have gone to Tinian as well as Tinian is only 5 miles from Saipan.
In my research I was told that it is very possible that a detachment work crew my have been sent to Saipan and Tinian. In one of the Muster lists I have it shows your father as: MASSIE, CABLE B. Service Number 560 xx xx, Rate: S1C He enlisted 13 OCT 1942 and was assigned to the 59th 01 JAN 1943.
Your dad’s name rings a bell for some reason, I may have seen it in some of the 59th documents or newspapers; I’ll have to go back and look. if you like I can give you access to the 59NCB archives I have collected so far at box.net, I official documents, newspapers, pictures and more just let me know where to send the email invitation. Bill Baker usabaker@gmail.com
December 15, 2010 at 2:59 am |
Hi Bill! I was wondering if you could send me any of your info on the 59th via e-mail. I’ve love to have anything regarding the 59th NCB! Thanks in advance, Blair
December 15, 2010 at 2:59 am |
Hi Bill! I was wondering if you could send me any of your info on the 59th via e-mail. I’d love to have anything regarding the 59th NCB! Thanks in advance, Blair
December 15, 2010 at 5:27 am |
Hi Blair, I will send you a invitation from BOX.net where I have been storing some of the 59th NCB artifacts. I have allot more I still need to post there from my last trip to the Seabee Museum archives but I’m still formatting it.
If you have any 59th info you would like to share you can send scans, pictures, etc.. and I will post them. Was someone in you family in the 59th?
March 18, 2011 at 8:18 pm |
I came across several pitures of the 59th NCB baseball or softball team with their game uniforms and some action shoots playing a black team. I can’t ID the base but there are buildings in the background, I would be glad to send pictures if you are interested. All were stamped Passes by Naval Censor” on the back. My Dad was wounded on the Randolph by a Japanese fighter so anything I can do to help let me know.
March 19, 2011 at 12:26 am |
Tom that would be wonderful! there are a few people here whos father was on that team so I know they would love to see the pictures as well. My email address is usabaker@gmail.com you can contact me there. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
May 26, 2011 at 11:41 pm |
My father CEM Al Johnson, was a 59er! After Camp Perry, he went to California, assigned 59th NCB, journeyed to Hilo, then to Wamia, the to Honolulu, then to Guam. The 59th was decommissioned and the remaining men depending on the number of points were transfered to other battalions. I would appreciate a scan, photo or reproduction on any 59er materials. I’ll be delighted to pay, for the aforementioned or will provide a cash deposit while I repro the items. I have a near day by day history of my father trip through WW II. Which includes the shipment and delay at Eniwetok for a month due the the Saipan operation date of invasion change.
May 27, 2011 at 3:38 am |
Jim. I have been looking for that information! I would love to have a copy of that, I would even pay to have it scanned. I sent you the invitation to BOX.net so you have full ‘editor’ access.
Bill
May 27, 2011 at 8:31 pm
Bill: I never could get lined up with box. I saw one issue of the 59er and couldn’t go forward. I got box.net lined up but couldn’t follow through. I would be delighted to provide you with any info I have on the 59th. I’d be pleased to copy and mail to you. Your call……I’m keen on the computer as long as my computer guy sets it us so I can use…so, your counsel, advice and guidance would be appreciated. Most cordially, Jim Johnson
September 21, 2011 at 2:00 am |
There seems to be a group with 59th NCBs which were at Ames, Iowa, then Rhode Island, followed by Camp Perry, to California on USS Indianapolis, to Tinian and Gaum. Also referred to as Island x and xx.
There is a certificate which was given to those in the 59th CBs with drawing of tent city at top, plaque on left, and CB logo on right. I have the original used to fill out for each member.
September 21, 2011 at 10:11 pm |
Hi John,
I would love, as I’m sure others would, to see the certifiacte you have. Would it be possable to get a copy of it that I can post of everyone to see?
Thanks
Bill
September 22, 2011 at 12:44 am
email to usabaker@gmail with certificate picture / scan.
November 3, 2011 at 12:13 am |
My name is STEVEN A. McCALEB. my father’s name is BILLY W. McCALEB, he was in the 59 batt. from 1942-1945, I would like to know if anyone has anything about him,
I am a retired SEABEE – 1968-1988
My brother Billy H. McCaleb was an Officer (CEC)
Please let me know if you have anything about my father!!!!!
November 27, 2011 at 12:23 am |
Hello Everyone,
My father and I were discussing my great uncles role in ww2. He passed away in ’83. His name was Patrick Wallace. I namwed after him and we have discussed for a number of years his role in wwII. My great Aunt has recently passed away and a number of his documentation has fallen to us. I would be really interested to hear from anyone that has information. Pat immigrated from Ireland and lived the majority of his time in Baltimore. Mostly west Holly st.
March 14, 2013 at 3:28 am |
My father was Oda W. Nichols. I have several newspapers written during the war that include info on the baseball teams and some of their games. He also held several leadership positions in the organization. I do remember going to Old Point Comfort (across from Norfolk). We took the boat from Washington, D.C. He died in 1973. I only saw him two or three times after my parents were divorced. I also have some other materials I will be happy to send you. There is a book about the 59th Seabees. He also worked at the Navy Yard til he retired.
March 15, 2013 at 4:45 am |
Hi Carol!,
Wow it’s so great too make contact with another family member of on
of the men from NCB 59! I have seen your dad’s name in the muster
rolls and other documents and can pull up some of that information for
you if you like. I also store some of the pictures and files online
and can send you a link to them on BOX.NET as well.
Speaking for myself and other family members of the Fifty Ninth I
WOULD LOVE any informatoion documents or stories you might have. For
some reason there is not allot of infromation with regards to this
SEABEE Battalion, even in the offical Naval records it mostly just
muster roll and a report here and there; most of the good information
has come from people like you who have been willing to share and itmes
that I find on eBay no and then.
If you don’t have a means to scan them I can do that for you and then
return the documents to you if you want them back. If you are going to
mail them let me know and I can send you the money for the postage.
This is my personal email usabaker@gmail.com and my cell phone is
(619) 417-7331
Home Address:
Bill and Janet Baker
2763 AGNO CT.
San Diego, CA 92154
Thank you ! and it was great to meet you!
June 16, 2013 at 9:33 pm |
My stepfather, Oda William (Nick) Nichols was in the 59th during WWII. I attended many of their annual reunions growing up. Nick passed away in 1973, but my mother continued going to the reunions for many years afterward. I believe she has many group photographs (and possibly attendee lists for some) of those reunions, which I will be happy to share with you if I can get my hands on them.
October 2, 2013 at 5:51 pm |
Carol Ann,
This is Terry (Nichols) Watson Gable. Obviously I’m sure you remember Oda W. Nichols was my father too. I have tried several times to find a current address or information on how to find you. I even sent a letter to an address in OK once. My personal email is: terry.gable20@yahoo.com. I would love to touch base with you.
Terry
February 7, 2014 at 2:51 pm |
Hi Everybody,
My name is Tom Irwin, my father Matt (Red) Irwin has in the 59th and always said it was the best (and worst) time of his life. Unfortunately he passed in 2005, after moving from the Washington, DC area to Georgia with my mom Peggy. Dad and mom made it to almost all of the reunions and in fact was in charge of the arrangements for at least one.
I would like to thank Bill for this blog, I would hate to see the memory of these American Heroes die a little with each one of them. As their families, we have a responsibility to keep their memories alive and tell their stories.
God Bless,
Tom Irwin
February 7, 2014 at 7:15 pm |
Hi Tom,
Thanks for the comment to the 59thNCB blog! It’s always nice to find others who family have served in the 59th NCB. I agree that these men should not be forgotten and have been working toward that effort, not as fast as I had hoped but it’s getting there. I have a BOX.NET account where I have some of the pictures and document I have collected over the years stored so others can view them if you would like access just let me know what email to send the invitation to and I will grant you access; maybe you will find an picture of your dad there. I have ALLOT of stuff on the 59th which included almost all of the battalions records most of which is not up on the box account because there isn’t enough room. Hopefully someday I will get the time to build the 59th NCB wabsite I have planned so all of the data is accessible to everyone and anyone.
Thank again and take care!
February 7, 2014 at 11:48 pm
Thanks Bill, I would love to have access to the Box.Net account to see anything you have.
Tom
February 8, 2014 at 2:35 am
Hi Tom you should have an email from BOX.NET if you don’t see it check your spam folder. Bill
February 7, 2014 at 9:18 pm |
Hi Tom,
I remember your parents, Matt & Peg. I am the stepdaughter of Oda William (called Nick) Nichols. My mother is Margaret Nichols. We attended many of the 59th Reunions over the years and I grew up knowing many of the men and their wives. It is sad that so many of them have passed on now. They were great people.
I am going to send a link to your post to Nick’s daughter, Terry Gable.
Glad to hear from you.
Deb Henshaw Lawrence
May 25, 2014 at 1:14 am |
Hi Tom, I’m sitting here a a family function searching around and found this site. Sharing all this with my dad. My name is Charles Steele Jr and as I am reading some of the names off to my dad Charles Sr, he is remembering most of these names and even telling me where they are from. This was fascinating to me. He was the treasurer for the 59th and held the reunion in Toledo a couple of times. He just told me that they just recently sent the 59th flag to the museum . I would like to be included in that 59th BOX.net I think thats what it was or just more information. Thanks. ( tramm3@bex.net )
May 26, 2014 at 3:37 am
Hi Chuck,
Welcome! I’m really glad that you found this site; I would be more than happy to grant you access to the BOX.net account! you will see an email from BOX.NET that will have the login and password in you email within a few minutes. I would love to interview your Dad if he’s will I would love not only to add that interview here but to the National Archives in Washington DC. I’ll also send you my contact info.
THanks, Bill Baker
February 7, 2014 at 9:13 pm |
Hi Tom,
I remember your parents, Matt & Peg. I am the stepdaughter of Oda William (called Nick) Nichols. My mother is Margaret Nichols. We attended many of the 59th Reunions over the years and I grew up knowing many of the men and their wives. It is sad that so many of them have passed on now. They were great people.
I am going to send a link to your post to Nick’s daughter, Terry Gable.
Glad to hear from you.
Deb Henshaw Lawrence
February 7, 2014 at 11:54 pm |
Hi Deb, it is great to hear from you, I remember your step-mom too. Thank you for sending the link to Terry, I have already heard from her and she remembers get tog ethers at my parents house.
Thanks again, Tom
February 7, 2014 at 9:17 pm |
I would love an invite to the 59thNCB Box.net account! Thanks.
February 8, 2014 at 2:36 am |
Hi Deb, you should get an email form BOX.Net if you don’t see it look in your spam folder. Enjoy! Bill
February 7, 2014 at 9:57 pm |
Tom, I spent many a convention and vacation with my mom Margaret Nichols ( dad: Oda W. Nichols ) at or with your parents. They were great friends! I will always remember your mom’s orange pork chops she made. They were fantastic, I also had my 1st cornish game hen at her house. One memory have of being downstairs in their house having snacks and a get together and I caught my pig tail on fire leaning over a candle. It’s funny the things we remember. My dad passed when I was 8, and all his buddies Matt, Ernie, Lonnie, Joe – they all stood in as Surrogate uncles for me!
February 8, 2014 at 12:01 am |
Hi Terry, thank you for writing. I remember your mom and I guess we are surrogate cousins. I always thought it was wonderful the way all the guys and wives stuck together for all those years and hopefully, with the assistance of this blog, we could someday carry on their tradition.
God Bless, Tom
August 15, 2014 at 6:43 am |
Raymond E. Milner is my Dad he was a corpsman assigned to the 59th.Every morning when he would get up I could hear him singing to himself “Anchors Away” and “We’re the Seabees of the Navy” He loved his time in the service and like a lot of corpsman when he got out of the service he enlisted in the Hawaiian Territorial Guard and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Its very interesting that during his time at Hilo he met and married my mother and I have a copy of one of the “Fiftyniners”with their wedding picture on it and another one with the story of how he and Allen Burns Olsen saved a downed flyers life.We knew Allen Olsen well, and when I was a child I referred to him as “Uncle Allen” I am sorry to report that both these old fiftyniners have long since passed away my Dad died in 1987 and Allen B. Olsen died in the nineteen nineties.
But I think personally that Dad’s time in the service defined him, he established a love of country in his children and also personified that “can-do” spirit. I am very proud of the 59th and their accomplishments. We have conti
August 15, 2014 at 6:51 am |
Raymond E. Milner is my Dad he was a corpsman assigned to the 59th.Every morning when he would get up I could hear him singing to himself “Anchors Away” and “We’re the Seabees of the Navy” He loved his time in the service and like a lot of corpsman when he got out of the service he enlisted in the Hawaiian Territorial Guard and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Its very interesting that during his time at Hilo he met and married my mother and I have a copy of one of the “Fiftyniners”with their wedding picture on it and another one with the story of how he and Allen Burns Olsen saved a downed flyers life.We knew Allen Olsen well, and when I was a child I referred to him as “Uncle Allen” I am sorry to report that both these old fiftyniners have long since passed away my Dad died in 1987 and Allen B. Olsen died in the nineteen nineties.
But I think personally that Dad’s time in the service defined him, he established a love of country in his children and also personified that “can-do” spirit. I am very proud of the 59th and their accomplishments. We have continued as a Military family, 2 of my sons served in Iraq and one son and one daughter served in Afghanistan. My Son Joseph Edward Milner is a warrant officer and flies the Apache Longbow and had nearly a thousand hours of combat flying in Afghanistan. He is in the express image of my Dad and his picture can be found on my Facebook page. I have pictures that others may enjoy.
August 19, 2014 at 4:48 am |
Hi Thomas!
It’s amazing that you found this site. I know well what you father did I have a copy of the original naval report for how your father and Mr. Olsen saved the pilot. I’ve also a copy of the official Award of the Navy and Marnie Corps Medal and temporary citation I beleave I a few other documents like his promotions as well; i would have to dig just a little to see what I have. I also have a scanned version of the The Fifty Niner Vol1 No6 newspaper with the wedding picture of your father and mother. let me know if you would like me to email you copies of what I have concerning your father.
There is a box.net account online where I have a number of photographs that I have found and some that were donated by other family members of the 59th I would be more than happy to give you access to the site if you like.
Welcome!!!!
Bill Baker
May 1, 2015 at 5:11 pm |
My father, Victor P. Muzny, served with the 59th. He was apparently assigned to the 59th while at Norfolk, from there went to Pearl Harbor and according to his writings landed at Guam on D-Day +3.
He died in 2011.
July 7, 2018 at 3:06 am |
Hi Randy! Thank you for the offer and that would be great, I will share them with all the family members that visit the site. If you would like to send me your email address I will give you access to a shared drive that had a lot of information and pictures from families and the SEABEE archives. send it to my usabaker@yahoo.com email address.
May 24, 2015 at 7:06 pm |
My dad was in the 59 the Fulton ryalls
..I have a few of his things .one is a photo of the battalion. It’s about 1 2 inches long and in kind of rough shape. Also at hand a news letter from fall of 1 9 9 0 with many photos. If any of these help let me know and I can try and get you copies. Thanks for your interest I want to know more of what my dad went through.
July 9, 2015 at 6:47 am |
My father Albert Purvin was in the 59th NCB as well. He just died a week ago Tuesday at the age of 95 and will be interred at Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, PA. I’ve come across a few old photos of him and some of the company when they were in HI, Guam and the Phillipines.
July 7, 2018 at 3:01 am |
Hi Heather, I have seen your fathers name in the archives. Sorry to hear of his passing and my prayers are with you and your family. Please feel free to visit the site anytime If you would like to send me the email address I will give you access to a shared drive that had a lot of information and pictures from families and the SEABEE archives. send it to my usabaker@yahoo.com email address.
November 23, 2019 at 5:33 pm |
Hello Heather, I have just seen this website for the first time. Your dad and mine, Harley Wilson, served in the 59th together. I remember many times in the early 60’s when “Purv” would come up to Forest County, Pa. for the first week of buck season and stay at our house. I guess I was too young to listen to some of the stories they told. Small world.
November 24, 2019 at 7:54 pm
Wow!!!! How cool to connect. I remember him going up to Tionesta!! My brother Harley says that Albert used to tell people in “deer camp” that his son was named for your dad. (He was actually named for both grandfathers but you know how stories go!) Small world indeed.
January 13, 2017 at 4:43 pm |
My Dad Joseph Robert Hysan served in the 59th Naval Construction Battalion. He was born August 23, 1918 in Mt. Rainier MD and is now 98 years old and living in an assisted living home in Bowie, MD. I have an xerox copy of an official Roster of the 59th dated August 1955. This document gives a battalion history and also a copy of names and addresses from C.J. Fuchs to George Eddie Lloyd. This is the page where my Dad’s name appears. Dad served from Dec. 2, 1942 (signed up in Washington, DC) until his discharge date of Oct. 14, 1945 (Bainbridge, MD). I also have a document that my Dad dictated to me when I was in high school for a school project entitled Thirty six Months of War.
I found you when I saw in my dad’s notes that he wanted the 59th notified when he passed and I thought I better find that information now. Any help in finding an official address to give this information to when the time comes would be appreciated. Thank you.
Geraldine Hysan Byrd Ritzel
616 Crawfords Ridge Road
Odenton, MD 21113
410-695-1129
jerrymaeb@aol.com
August 17, 2018 at 9:13 pm |
Hi to all 59th family members! I’d like very much to be included in the discussion! I posted here years ago, but haven’t seen much activity on the site. I couldn’t get the Box.net address to open for me, so I never saw the content. Could someone contact me in regards to any information on the 59th, please? My Dad, A.B. Cameron, from Sanford, N.C., was a proud Fifty-niner who served on Guam, and was also sent to Tinian and Saipan. You can email me at: djcodyro@yahoo.com Anytime! Thanks in advance for any information you might share! Blair Cameron