Ahoy - Mac's Web Log

Mr. Gregory

My name is Ken Minick. I am currently running the USS Canberra Reunion Association. I took it over when Bryan Humphrey, our President, passed away last December. I believe you met Bryan at the USS Canberra Bell transfer ceremony on 10 Sept 2001.

I recently purchased a USS Canberra plaque from a gentleman in Australia. He said he bought it at a flea market. It probably came off of the ship when she visited Australia during the Vietnam War. The man tried to send it to me, but the U.S. sent it back for some reason. If you know of a place where it would be appreciated there in Australia, I would be glad to try and have it sent to you. It is presently in Kingaroy, QLD.

Respectfully yours;

Ken Minick
Vice President
USS Canberra Reunion Association

Dear Ken,
 
How nice to hear from you.

I am sorry to hear that Bryan died last December, I well remember meeting him at the Washington Navy Yard ceremony on the day before 9/11.

It was a wonderful occasion, only to be marred the very next day with those awful events in New York and at the Pentagon.

Thank you for your offer, I am the current President of HMAS Canberra/ HMAS Shropshire  ( this cruiser replaced Canberra after she was sunk at Savo ) Association in Victoria. We would be delighted to have a USS Canberra plaque. You are most likely aware that my son Raymond was christened using her bell as the font, back in May of 1967. USS Canberra's bell is on display in the American Gallery at the National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour in Sydney. I will mail separately, a photo of Raymond in front of the bell, when he visited the museum last year, the first time he had seen it since 1967.
 
Why would US officials not deliver the plaque to you? seems an odd way to treat such a piece of memorabilia.

Your generosity is much appreciated.
 
With the best of good wishes, please pass on my greetings to your members at your next reunion.
 
Mackenzie. Gregory.

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