Very sad day: Capt. Zeb Alford passes away

[Cezbor]

Rest in peace Captain.

[Onkel Neal]

Patti, I've added the pictures you asked about. (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154534)Joe Shook forwarded them my way.

Neal

[Carotio]

This little project may be of your interest:
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154718

A tribute mod for SH4.
If any of you would like to help make it out, please post in that thread what you do best.
A video creator would be nice... :yeah:

If I have 12 good pictures (good resolution) to work on, I would like to handle that, or help with it.

[I-25]

R. I. P. Zeb:cry:

you'll be missed

[patti]

Patti, I've added the pictures you asked about. (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154534)Joe Shook forwarded them my way.

Neal


Where were they added so that I can see them, thank you so much

[Onkel Neal]

Where were they added so that I can see them, thank you so much

I added them to the first post on the tribute thread:
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154534 (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154534)

[patti]

I added them to the first post on the tribute thread:
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154534 (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=154534)

thank you so much Neal, I love what you have done. I want a copy of all the posts, are they printable. You can tell me when we meet in Houston. Really looking forward to meeting you.

Patti:yeah:

[FADM Gryphon]

I never got the chance to meet Zeb and that I am sorry for. But I have touched a piece of his life. There is park at the old Naval Station Puget Sound (aka: Sandpoint) where they have taken old submarine sails and mademade them look like the fin of a pod of orcas. The first one I ever touch was this one from the USS Tullibee.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_G7tEhpQglvU/RvKSYlMQ7lI/AAAAAAAAADk/i1OpwlFGsUU/s640/597-Tullibee%20Labeled-1.jpg

[FADM Gryphon]

Members on the Mod forum where asking about making a memorial mod in Zeb's honor. Tonight. I made this background which I can make into a loading scene. I thought since his family has been browsing the forum that they might want a to see it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/dristen/captzebalford.jpg Eternal Father, Strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid'st the mighty Ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
O hear us when we cry to thee,
for those in peril on the sea.
O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walked'st on the foaming deep,
and calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh hear us when we cry to Thee
For those in peril on the sea!
Most Holy spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee
For those in peril on the sea!
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee,
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.
O Christ, the Lord of hill and plain
O'er which our traffic runs amain,
by mountain pass or valley low,
Wherever Lord thy brethren go;
Protect them by Thy guardian hand
From every peril on the land.
O Spirit, Whom the Father send
To spread abroad the Firmament;
O wind of heaven, by Thy Might,
Save all who dare the eagle's flight;
And keep them by Thy watchful care
From every peril in the air.

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

Your dad and all of you are in my daily morning prayers, girls, and i had a thought maybe in time you all could among you write down some of the stories you recall from his tales, and maybe others who knew him could help add some, and it certainly might be a way to honour and nurture your connection to him.

My grandfather was at sea for many years several generratoins ago and his career bridged the transition from steam to the modern fleet, air and nuclear, and we found he had kept an entire file cabinet of carefully written notes, stories and times he had seen, and we put some of them together in a memory book, modern software makes that very very easy to do. And he may indeed have written things that could be added too. just a thought.

God bless you all and all the familiy. :)

[StarLion45]

Rest in peace .

I SALUTE YOU :salute:

[patti]

Your dad and all of you are in my daily morning prayers, girls, and i had a thought maybe in time you all could among you write down some of the stories you recall from his tales, and maybe others who knew him could help add some, and it certainly might be a way to honour and nurture your connection to him.

My grandfather was at sea for many years several generratoins ago and his career bridged the transition from steam to the modern fleet, air and nuclear, and we found he had kept an entire file cabinet of carefully written notes, stories and times he had seen, and we put some of them together in a memory book, modern software makes that very very easy to do. And he may indeed have written things that could be added too. just a thought.

God bless you all and all the familiy. :)
We tried to get Dad to write stuff down for years but I think we could all come up with some stories on our own, that is a great idea and I will talk to my sisters about it

[patti]

Members on the Mod forum where asking about making a memorial mod in Zeb's honor. Tonight. I made this background which I can make into a loading scene. I thought since his family has been browsing the forum that they might want a to see it.



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/dristen/captzebalford.jpg
Eternal Father, Strong to save,




Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid'st the mighty Ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
O hear us when we cry to thee,
for those in peril on the sea.
O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walked'st on the foaming deep,
and calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh hear us when we cry to Thee
For those in peril on the sea!
Most Holy spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee
For those in peril on the sea!
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee,
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

O Christ, the Lord of hill and plain

O'er which our traffic runs amain,
by mountain pass or valley low,
Wherever Lord thy brethren go;
Protect them by Thy guardian hand
From every peril on the land.
O Spirit, Whom the Father send
To spread abroad the Firmament;
O wind of heaven, by Thy Might,
Save all who dare the eagle's flight;
And keep them by Thy watchful care
From every peril in the air.


Wow that is beautiful thank you so much. After waking at 4am this was a great way to start my morning. Is there anyway you can get this into something that the church may use on the program. here is the Pastors email and please ask him to call me so maybe it could be on the cover or inside of the program. bjohnson@second.org

[patti]

Some of you have asked for stories about Zeb so here is one that describes the Alford household on Christmas mornings when we were kids in Groton.CT

We lived in a 2 story home right near the Thames River and we would wake up very early to try and see what Santa had brought us. We would wake Mom and Dad but had to wait for Dad to go downstairs to see if Santa had made it.

Mom would go to the kitchen to make coffee (at that age I could not understand how coffee was so good early in the morning) and all 4 of us would have to sit at the top of the stairs while Dad started a fire and to us it seemed like forever before he would finally say"come on down Santa made it here last night".

We went tearing down the stairs screaming and yelling with excitement and ran into the living room and started tearing open presents. I think it took all of 5 min to destroy the living room but I did the same thing to my daughter Sam when she was little so I guess the tradition goes on.

one of my favorite stories is one of our many drives across country going from CA to Ct in our non air conditioned car. It was hot and we were rambunctious to say the least. Mom would have just got us settled down in the station wagon to try and rest and all of a sudden Dad would start whistling the "Lone Ranger" tune and say Girls I think I saw Tonto up there on the cliff. Well up we would all pop and I swear that we all saw him too.
Thanks Dad for so many fun memories, I will try another one tomorrow.

hope they are not too borinig:D

[Chisum]

Thanks to your message Neal.
Your pain is our.

Rest in peace Zeb.

[Baby Katie]

Fadm Gryphon,
Your tribute was amazing-Thank-you for creating and doing that. It is so beautiful. I would love to see the subs with all their tales out of the ground where you saw that. How moving that must of been.
The poem, the picture, the concerns and from all of you is just so helpful to us all
Baby Katie

[danlisa]

The fact that this sad occasion has publically drawn such heartfelt and emotional responses from strangers, friends and the community alike stands as testament to the nature and life of Capt. Zeb Alford. *salute*

My condolences.

[CapnScurvy]

Allow me to express my condolences to the family and friends of Captain Zeb Alford. Veterans of the military take so much with them in their passing. Their personal sacrifice is foremost, showing unyielding devotion to duty and country. These sacrifices are also passed down through the family who also play a key role in the support of the veteran in his (or her) duties as a military member. It's a team effort on the "home front" in which all play an important role.

Thank you Captain Alford and family for your service.

[Laufen zum Ziel]

http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=1290

With Neal's permission I have used this thread to make a small tribute to a great man from the Subsim Community.

Forever Remembered at Subsim.

[Oberon]

I already posted a message earlier in this thread, however upon reflection and further reading about this fine gentlemans life, I feel that I have to say more.
Capt. Alford was at the cutting edge of submarine development, serving as XO on the Tullibee and Captain of the Shark which to this day, I do believe, holds the record for the fastest Atlantic crossing.
Furthermore, he investigated the loss of the Thresher and helped improve submarine safety through the eventual Sub-Safe program and commanded the first submarine to receive the Sub-Safe modifications.
To this date, no submarine that has gone through Sub-Safe has been lost at sea.
Then I read of his efforts in the restoration of the Cavalla, and his work with energy companies. This is truely a man who works to benefit others, a selfless man and I regret not having met him.
But, from this subsimmer from the other side of the pond, I say thank you Captain Alford and may your seas be calm on your final voyage.
God bless. :salute:

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

FADM Gryphon, that is a beautiful tribute image...

That was a great Christmas Day story :) loved it. And I also remember well being in the back seat of the family 1952 Ford Stationwaggon on 11 trips back and forth across the US quite a while ago. I will keep an eye out for Tonto when travelling in the future :)

Oberon, i agree, Capt Alford was at the cutting edge of some of the major changes and developments and doing some research on line last night I found this detailed and fascinating account he shared about the tragic loss of the USS Thresher due to an Engine Room Flooding accident, i think this is a worthy reminder of the critical and remarkable work that Capt Alford did in his career, and the perils that all sub men face and face bravely every day they go to sea...


Subject: Today in History - April 10
Date: Sun, 12 Apr 2009 02:55:34 +0000
I got the following e-mail about the loss of USS Thresher from Zeb Alford, retired Navy captain and Cavalla Historical Foundation board member. __
Ron Harter
Cavalla Historical Foundation Public Information Officer

rharter@...
40 for freedom, 1 for training
Dear John,
Your remembrance of the loss of USS THRESHER brought back many poignant memories of mine. I was CO USS SHARK at that time and on a special op. I couldn't believe the msg. we received. The CO USS THRESHER, Wes Harvey, was a close friend and one of the most qualified nuclear engineers I ever had the honor to serve with. We put the TULLIBEE nuclear prototype and USS TULLIBEE, our first nuclear SSK, in commission. Wes was the engineer for both, Dick Jortberg was CO, and I was XO. I never served on any nuclear submarine with a more qualified wardroom and crew than TULLIBEE--that's saying something!

In November Admiral Rickover had me ordered to the pentagon to OP 31. Admiral Dennis Wilkerson was my boss there. The task he assigned me, among others, was to get together all the information pertinent to the loss of THRESHER, and write the presentation to Congress by Admiral Red Ramage (OP 03) concerning loss of THRESHER. I was also assigned project manager for the SUBSAFE program for CNO.=2 0My saddest memory was listening to the tapes of the underwater phone conversations between Wes and the submarine rescue vessel ,which was his escort for his sea trials, after a major overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Wes had relieved as CO while the sub was in the shipyard. The first conversation that I remember well was Wes telling the sub rescue vessel "stand clear, emergency surfacing from test depth, flooding in the engine room". His voice was calm, and easily recognized. I could hear the air blow start and the screw speeding up. In less than a minute, the emergency blow trailed off and the screw started slowing down. Wes's last report was "attempting to blow" . Wes knew and I knew that were no orders that started with "attempting". His voice was still calm even though he knew by then his sub was lost. I believe till this day that he was telling us something was wrong with the air blow system. Even someone as good an engineer as Wes couldn't figure out why the air blow stopped. The next thing on the tape some minutes later was the collapse of the first bulkhead, followed shortly after with the others collapsing. Calculations later estimated the sub reached 300-400 feet depth before the flooding stopped her ascent. Six weeks later when she was located, the bow was buried about thirty feet deep at 12000 feet depth. Calculations show she was going over 100 knots when she bottomed. The front half of the sub was vertical. The su b broke in two at the reactor compartment. I could read the name of the next to last reactor watch officer on the log sheet on the bottom of the ocean from the hundreds of pics made.


Before I had arrived in the pentagon, the submarine force had conducted alongside blowing of the air blow system on sister subs. All the valves froze from adiabatic expansion causing freezing of the small amount of moisture in the compressed air.. Other subs had samples taken from their saltwater engine room cooling system. The silver brazing joints were destructively tested and the bonding ranged from 100 %(few) down to 10%. The reactor safety systems had shut down the reactor from the flooding and spray in the engine room. We knew what the problems were, and the fixes were quickly decided on and implemented. By pass systems were installed on the reactor safety systems within months on all the operating and building nuclear subs. To get the other fixes, the subs had to get shipyard availabilities or overhauls as the designs and equipment became available. When I left the pentagon in 1965, I requested to be assigne d to the first submarine that would get the complete SUBSAFE FIX during its overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. That submarine was USS SAM HOUSTON. I had one polaris patrol before going through a year and a half overhaul at Portsmouth. This involved a core replacement as well as the SUBSAFE FIX. I AM HAPPY TO REPORT THAT EVERYTHING WORKED. I'm still here and we have never lost a sub that had the SUBSAFE FIX installed.

In conclusion I was lucky to play a small part in a major effort where the Navy made a complex military system work. Admirals Ramage, Rickover, and Moorer had the complete confidence of the Secretary of the Navy and the Congress. They reported the findings of the Board of Investigation to the Congress as soon as it was completed. They reported all the things the Navy planned to do to make sure that problem wouldn't happen again, and finally they reported what the costs would be--several billions of dollars. The Congress accepted their reports and approved the money for the program. The rest is history. I believe the loss of THRESHER will be remembered as long as there are submariners.
captnzeb sends
@4-11-09.


re the stories Patti, you might even set up an e mail address and put a little notice in the memorial program to invite ppl to submit stories of your dad's or about him, and you girls could assemble a memorial book and share it in PDF format, or maybe set up a website for your dad. I plan to do a site for my father, who is 88 and a poet with some remarkable life experiences but he dosnet want it while he is around..... but those are ways to share and to help others honour your dad. :)

[Onkel Neal]

Here is one of the earlier e-mails from Capt. Zeb to the volunteers who began the Cavalla Historical Foundation. This decisiveness and energy was typical of Zeb, he had focus and he knew how to get things done.


To Exec. Committee:
Attached are the Articles of incorporation for the CAVALLA Historical Foundation. I did not sign this last Sat. since I wanted input from all of you. Please look this over and be set to suggest changes and to decide who should be on the board at our next meeting. We need to get this done ASAP since this is what's holding us up from starting our fundraising with the various foundations. I do not agree with Art.13 and told Renee' to have the lawyer change it to have a simple majority vote able to take action.

Dave Stoops, please set the next Exec. Committee meeting as early as you can get a majority of us together--this week for sure. If it's not convenient to hold at your home pick a spot. Other items I think we should cover include the representatives on the board from the Dallas group, the questions raised about painting inside CAVALLA, and any other items any of you want to bring up.

captnzeb sends@6-20-99.



The mention of the Dallas group is significant. This group of SubVets would venture down once a month. Out of this group came our current curator and the main engine behind the day-to-day work on Cavalla, Chief John McMichael.

[Arclight]

He doesn't seem to be one to beat around the bush, a stand up guy indeed. :salute:

[heartc]

Thank you for your service to the Free World, and Rest in Peace.

<S>

[Baby Katie]

Ok -here is a classic Capt Zeb story. I was the only daughter who lived in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (Gitmo) when Dad was the Commander of the Naval Station there. Well the ratio was 50 males to one female, so as a 16 year old girl - naturally I loved it. Well Dad allowed me to date a sailor( who was his Captains private Boat Bosen-or whatever they are called) and one nite my best girlfriend and I snuck into the Male Barracks to visit the twin brothers we were dating and we had some WAVES or WHACKS (Not sure what those females in the navy were called) with us so they were doing something not allowed also. Well the SP's ( Military Police) heard we were up there and barged into the room and we hid in their lockers all swished so when we could, my girlfriend and I ran as fast as we could right past the SP's to our get away car at the bottom of a long dirt hill. We had bought some beater station wagon from some German sailor for us to use while living in Gitmo and we had to manually lift the front hood and pump the carburator or some fuel pump with my hand while Lisa would start it. All this with the police chasing us; but we drove away with dust flying and I vaguely recalled hearing the police say "Hey - wasn't that Capt Alford's daughter?"
So I end up with the Whacky Waves (female sailors) and my girlfriend in Dad's Naval Office all standing at attention and he dictated the punishments for the Active duty women and then he looked at me and could barely maintain his laughter and said "Katie-I will take care of you at home" When they all left the office I stayed behind and we broke into laughter and he just thought the whole thing was too funny -so he said 'You are not allowed on the barrack grounds for 30 days" or some lame punishment. See- he knew I was such a good girl and would never do anything to discredit or disrespect him so he knew I was just up to some minor mischief. (Sounds like a good reason - huh?)

[geetrue]

That's the first sea story I have ever heard a girl tell ... :salute:

Your alright Katie ... I don't care what Zeb said about you ... :woot:

[Polar Pablo]

From the husband of navy Junior Jane

Zeb, larger than life, an encycopedia of sea stories, a warrior whose stories will probably never be fully told. He was extraordinarily kind about being landed with a British son-in-law, possibly because he loved the eccentricity and tradition of his sub colleagues at Holy Loch. We shared a love for the sea and much time spent on it and in it, he underwater and me in the Antarctic ice. I always looked forward to sharing sea stories but we never quite got to mine, no matter his were better. One of our great joys was finding naval history books for his birthdays and Christmas which were always deeply appreciated. Memories of whimsical conversations, often revolving around his belief that if he could not have been born to be a nuclear sub skipper, he would have wanted to be a frigate captain in the RN in the Napoleonic wars, a great compliment to a limey.
We will always remember and chuckle at his sign off on countless messages for navy Junior jane and his other daughters, bah, bah babeh!
We love you we will miss you, send us tide tables for heaven!
Pablo

[FADM Gryphon]

Wow that is beautiful thank you so much. After waking at 4am this was a great way to start my morning. Is there anyway you can get this into something that the church may use on the program. here is the Pastors email and please ask him to call me so maybe it could be on the cover or inside of the program. bjohnson@second.org

Patti per your request and emailed the pastor. I will send you a pm with my personal email to let the Pastor look out for my email.

The pic was fun to make and what better way to honor a fellow sailor. Salute to you as well Captain.


D. Brooks ABEAN US Navy 92- 95

[FADM Gryphon]

Fadm Gryphon,
Your tribute was amazing-Thank-you for creating and doing that. It is so beautiful. I would love to see the subs with all their tales out of the ground where you saw that. How moving that must of been.
The poem, the picture, the concerns and from all of you is just so helpful to us all
Baby Katie


Your quite welcome. I understand your lost, as I have lost a parent as well.

Making the tribute page is my way of honoring a great man and a fellow sailor. I salute all that served. We are a family even if we never meet all the members of the family.

[urfisch]

rest in peace. naval men are always special...

[Nisgeis]

Rest in Peace.

[FIREWALL]

@ Neal

Can Capt Zeb be added to our Eternal Patrol list please ?

I think it would be fitting. :yep:

[Baby Katie]

@ Neal

Can Capt Zeb be added to our Eternal Patrol list please ?

I think it would be fitting. :yep:

Thank-you Firewall- I went into that place and saw the list of those on Eternal Patrol. I agree with you- it would be an honor for Dad.
I kept calling it "Eternal Parole" till big sister Peggy told me -that is in Prison Katie - it is 'Eternal PATROL. I stand corrected! :timeout:

Baby Katie

[peggy]

Dear Precious Friends,

I wish I could meet each and every one of you and say thank you eye to eye for your heartfelt writings and pictures for my dad. Thank you Neal, Adm. Von Gerlach, John Barber, SunValleySlim, WildHawkeII, Gunfighter...and on and on and on. You lift us up, all of you.

Here is another fun Dad story. Happened in Guantanamo Bay...Baby Kate somehow forgot I spent a year down there. I had been 2 years to college (Kate was still in high school there terrorizing the base) and I came down there for a year...I mean, it was paradise for us girls and I didn't want to miss an opportunity like that. It was Christmas and sister Jane and I were having a party for all the college kids that were home for the holiday. Well, that same time Bob Hope, Neal Armstrong, and Charlie Pride we're coming in for a USO show on the base. Neal and Charlie got in a day early, Dad picked them up from the airport and apparently said "Hey guys, there's not too much going on tonight, but 2 of my girls are having a college party and you're welcome to come over to our place and hang out". They said "sure, why not". The party was outside, warm breezes, of course a beautiful bay view, stellar sunsets...and in walks Dad with these 2 guys. We girls were giddy to say the least. We had a live band that was pretty darn bad, but we didn't care. Charlie asked if they would mind if he joined them...and sang 'Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'. It was so cooool!!! The guys in the band couldn't believe it, neither could we. Dad was just standing back and watching how happy it made everyone. Then Neal Armstrong kept pointing at the moon, and talked to many of us about his moonwalk (not like Michael Jackson's). I remember his saying how much he loved golf and how much he played whenever he could...and then he said something that made everyone take note...."As far as I know, I'm the only guy that left his balls on the moon". That pretty much brought the house down and we rocked till the wee hours of the morning. Dad loved to dance and we loved having Mom and him at our party, dancing with all of us. We all have such special memories from there. And they will never be forgotten.

God bless you all,

Peggy

[Captain Birdseye]

I'm sorry I missed this.


Rest in peace sir.

[FADM Gryphon]

Liljoentx asked if I could make a pic with all of Zeb's Commands so here it is. More crowded that I would like but I wanted to leave the patches big enough to read.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/dristen/zeb2.png

[Sledgehammer427]

He fought the good fight... R.I.P

[Silverwolf]

Though I'm new here and never met him he sounds like a man who's done great things in his life time. R.I.P

[liljoentx]

Liljoentx asked if I could make a pic with all of Zeb's Commands so here it is. More crowded than I would like, but I wanted to leave the patches big enough to read.

You did great, Gryphon!

Bravo Zulu!

[Onkel Neal]

@ Neal

Can Capt Zeb be added to our Eternal Patrol list please ?

I think it would be fitting. :yep:

Roger that, done. (http://www.subsim.com/eternal_patrol.htm)

[longam]

Rest in Peace Captain.

[momo55]

My sincerest condolences to his family and friends .

[Catherine Barton]

Uncle Zeb was an encourager. He helped instill courage in me and others.
I had to relocate to Phoenix, AZ from Jackson, MS mid life all by myself with little money, no contacts, no help.
I was nervous about driving by myself from MS to AZ. This was in 1994. No cell phone or GPS, just a map. I told Uncle Zeb my concerns. He barked at me and said in a very firm voice," DRIVE!". I said," I do not know if I can do it". He said," DRIVE!". I drove.
That trip turned out to be good for me.
I had a flat tire and before I could get out of the car, a trucker with an 18 wheeler was at my window asking if I needed him to fix my flat. He did and followed me to a truck stop and oversaw the repair and guided me back to the Interstate. He would take no money. Inside his cab was a pregnant girl he had picked up. She was about due, had little money and was trying to get to California to family to help her. I said to him, "Since you will not take the money, will you give her money for food?". I think about that trucker now and then. I hope he has many blessings coming his way.
Had not Uncle Zeb encouraged me I maybe would not have made it to Arizona where I live today.
Thank you, Uncle Zeb, for all you did for me.

[CTU_Clay]

I am sorry I did not see this topic earler.

Neal and Catherine;
I am so sad to hear of your loss of a Friend, Uncle, and a Great American Citizen. It is men like Zeb, that has kept our United States a free nation. He will be missed.
God Bless Him and His Family.

R. Clay Reynolds SR
Houston, TX 77093

[jimimadrid]

Back from vacation and reading this bad news.

My condolences to his family. Rest in peace Zeb.

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

Peggy what a wonderful story, I think the Zeb story collection has already begun here :) Catherine, i am glad he was able to give you the courage for your shift to AZ, i too made such a move, in fact quite a few of them but one of them was to Fountain Hills, AZ, and that was part of a life changing part of my life too. We never know what our voyages may bring us, but the most important first step is to leave port...and head out to the open sea. Captain Zeb is there ahead of us all, and his example stands as a beacon to guide us all. God Bless you all, family and comrades. and that is a fine collection updaed pic Gryphon, what a fine fleet of commands he had :)

[patti]

:yeah:Liljoentx asked if I could make a pic with all of Zeb's Commands so here it is. More crowded that I would like but I wanted to leave the patches big enough to read.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/dristen/zeb2.png

This just gets better every day . Thank you so much for the update, even though it is crowded, it is great and really shows what our Dad did.
You are awesome

[Anvart]

You have gone the long and glorious life path Capt. Zeb Alford ... :salute:
Eternal memory of you ... and
Rest in peace ...

[FADM Gryphon]

You did great, Gryphon!

Bravo Zulu!

Thank you and your welcome.

[FADM Gryphon]

:yeah:

This just gets better every day . Thank you so much for the update, even though it is crowded, it is great and really shows what our Dad did.
You are awesome
No Problem glad I was able to do this.

[liljoentx]

Uncle Zeb was an encourager..............Thank you, Uncle Zeb, for all you did for me.

What a poignant and loving story, Catherine!

It certainly shows how caring about others is what it is all about.

As submariners, we all profoundly learned that cooperation rather than competition is the key!

God Bless all of you family, friends and Shipmates of Capt. Zeb,

Lil'Joe in Texas

[patti]

I have another funny story or rather now it seems funny.
I can remember when I was in the 6th grade and we lived in Groton CT and Dad had just come back from a long cruise ( I think under the North Pole but not 100% sure). He had a tape of sonar blips of whales etc and I took it to show and tell (well maybe it wasn't 6th grade after all) but I was so proud of that sound and told everyone that my Dad was on the sub that made that sound. Thinking back now that would have been pretty boring if you were not in the Navy but since Groton was a huge Navy site I am sure they thought it was great-almost as good as when I played the accordion for them!

I also remember a car trip across the United States from CA to CT and we were driving through the desert and Dad had bought a window ac for the car and it collected alot of water that you had to flush out every now and then by pulling a string.
Well I guess he was pretty mischievous becasue Mom was asleep in her seat by the AC and he asked one of us to pull the string that let the water out and it landed right in her face. I am not sure how much trouble we got in becasue we said "Dad made us do it". I guess we had to be entertained some way, it was a long long trip.

[Carotio]

I don't know if this is okay, but I have made this little memory image. In a hurry to speak the truth, since I don't have much time left, before I go for holiday. But we had a discussion whether to make a tribute mod for SH4, and well, this is sofar all I could come up with due to lack of time.
The image size has been reduced to 800*640 for the forum.
For the original size, click here (http://www.silenthuntermods.com/images/Memory2009b.jpg)
I hope you like it. :yep:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y288/Carotio/Subsim/Memory2009b2.jpg

[Jail]

I never know what to write when something like this happens. Reading these post I can only give my humble respect and thoughts to his family.May he rest in peace.

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

Carotio, that is a lovely picture.

Patti, those are great stories, it is the "real life" events that create our personal landscape, and those tihngs are so nice to hear about, it makes your father and your life with him and your family connections to his career and work come alive for all of us. Many do not realize that that connection of the heart to those ashore keeps those afloat strong and going forward esp when things are tough.

Re the sonar, that is a great story to hear for two reasons, my father in law was one of the men who did the pioneer research in to sound speed theory and sonar that allowed the development of modern submarine sonar technology, and he used to tell many stories himself about the "biologicals" ie whales and other sea life that make sounds...for they helped him study and learn how to use that science to apply to the research that led to improvments and application to submarine sonar. That was a great story to hear. :) Hope eveyone is squared away and having a great day!

[patti]

Carotio, that is a lovely picture.

Patti, those are great stories, it is the "real life" events that create our personal landscape, and those things are so nice to hear about, it makes your father and your life with him and your family connections to his career and work come alive for all of us. Many do not realize that that connection of the heart to those ashore keeps those afloat strong and going forward esp when things are tough.

Re the sonar, that is a great story to hear for two reasons, my father in law was one of the men who did the pioneer research in to sound speed theory and sonar that allowed the development of modern submarine sonar technology, and he used to tell many stories himself about the "biologicals" ie whales and other sea life that make sounds...for they helped him study and learn how to use that science to apply to the research that led to improvements and application to submarine sonar. That was a great story to hear. :) Hope everyone is squared away and having a great day!

It was great to hear from you and to know that your father in law had so much to do with the sonar. What an amazing man he is too. We are doing alot better as I said in another post it is so great to read all these posts about Dad and there are some things that I have learned from reading these posts and on a down day they really pick me up. Your work is great

[patti]

I don't know if this is okay, but I have made this little memory image. In a hurry to speak the truth, since I don't have much time left, before I go for holiday. But we had a discussion whether to make a tribute mod for SH4, and well, this is sofar all I could come up with due to lack of time.
The image size has been reduced to 800*640 for the forum.
For the original size, click here (http://www.silenthuntermods.com/images/Memory2009b.jpg)
I hope you like it. :yep:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y288/Carotio/Subsim/Memory2009b2.jpg
This is beautiful and thank you so much, I love the modern look of it too.

Patti (daughter #1)

[Iceman]

I am sorry to hear of the loss of such a great submariner...Rest in Peace.

[yamato9]

Rest in Peace Captain Zeb.

[coronas]

Rest in Peace Sir.

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

I hope you daughers and all the family are having a blessed and peaceful Sunday, thinking of you all and your dad today, and sending prayers and best widshes for hearts ease and peace today and every day.

God Bless

[patti]

neal,
can you call me at ********* or email me at dpolivas@swbell.net. I thought I had your email but I don't seem to and I wanted to ask you something.
thanks.

patti

[peggy]

I hope you daughers and all the family are having a blessed and peaceful Sunday, thinking of you all and your dad today, and sending prayers and best widshes for hearts ease and peace today and every day.

God Bless


Admiral,

Thank you so much for your continuing kindness. I went to my wonderful church today and just sang my heart out to Dad during our worship. Today was a bit tough for me, but the half pound of M&M's that I inhaled really helped. :salute:

Blessings to you,

Peggy

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

Peggy Singing AND chocolate both help at times of testing, ...... i know 'cuase they both have helped me too :)

hugs to you all, and hang in there, ....maintaining course and speed under challenging times is a rough task but you have God at your side and angels on your shoulder..... and we are all with you, and all the familiy and freinds of the Captain. :)

Carry on.

[Onkel Neal]

Joan sent some pictures of their wedding day, added to the first post.

Link to first post (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?p=1145344)


.

[Te Kaha]

It's always very hard to lose a dear friend. Not knowing Zeb myself, I do feel for the relatives and for all who knew him personally, be it as Dad, Husband, Friend, or Comrade.

May he Rest In Peace.

[Knipper]

Rest in peace Skipper.

[Beltza]

Rest In Peace, sir.

[Catherine Barton]

Zeb's mother had asthma until she was around 40. When she was a little girl and having a bad asthma attack, the doctor informed her parents, Carrie and Zeb Dickey, that he was unsure if she would make it through the night. Her father, Zeb Dickey, got down on his knees and promised God if she lived he would turn his life over to the Lord. Doris, Zeb's mother, made it through the night. The next morning Zeb was sitting at the breakfast table and a traveling preacher rode through the backyard on a horse. (This was in the early 1900's or the late 1800's.) Zeb Dickey jumped up, ran outside and told the preacher he wanted commit his life to the Lord. He did, came back inside and announced, "Wife, we have just become Baptist."
Zeb Dickey became the Treasurer of the Baptist Church and in charge of the Building Fund. When he died, a booklet was written about him and his numerous accomplishments. He was compared to a hickory tree. It was written that a hickory tree is one of the strongest trees. It said his strength, guidance, financial expertise and demeanor were some of the reasons the First Baptist Church became a reality.
I told Uncle Zeb this story over the phone a few years ago. He paused and became quiet. Slowly he told me that he had been fortunate enough to meet some of the most intriguing people in the world.
He said that of all the people he had known, the ones that meant the most to him were his grandparents, Carrie and Zeb Dickey.
Zeb's mother, Doris, became the organist of that church and served for 50 years. Because of her asthma, she could not run and play like the others, so they taught her piano.
She named her firstborn after her father, Zeb Dickey.


Submitted by Catherine Alford Barton, Zeb's niece.

[ToddBoston]

Hi Peg,

Amy and I send our prayers and thoughts to you and your family.

We didn't get a chance to meet your Dad, but after reading these notes we got a little glimpse of him. He was quite a man and quite a father. My first thought coming to this thread was how much you look like your dad, Peg. But the stories about your dad also tell me how much else your dad gave you. His resolve, his purpose, his love of dancing, his heart - they are all there in you, Peg. He left a wonderful legacy in you. And I can see from your sisters notes, in them as well.

Love Todd and Amy

[patti]

Zeb's mother had asthma until she was around 40. When she was a little girl and having a bad asthma attack, the doctor informed her parents, Carrie and Zeb Dickey, that he was unsure if she would make it through the night. Her father, Zeb Dickey, got down on his knees and promised God if she lived he would turn his life over to the Lord. Doris, Zeb's mother, made it through the night. The next morning Zeb was sitting at the breakfast table and a traveling preacher rode through the backyard on a horse. (This was in the early 1900's or the late 1800's.) Zeb Dickey jumped up, ran outside and told the preacher he wanted commit his life to the Lord. He did, came back inside and announced, "Wife, we have just become Baptist."
Zeb Dickey became the Treasurer of the Baptist Church and in charge of the Building Fund. When he died, a booklet was written about him and his numerous accomplishments. He was compared to a hickory tree. It was written that a hickory tree is one of the strongest trees. It said his strength, guidance, financial expertise and demeanor were some of the reasons the First Baptist Church became a reality.
I told Uncle Zeb this story over the phone a few years ago. He paused and became quiet. Slowly he told me that he had been fortunate enough to meet some of the most intriguing people in the world.
He said that of all the people he had known, the ones that meant the most to him were his grandparents, Carrie and Zeb Dickey.
Zeb's mother, Doris, became the organist of that church and served for 50 years. Because of her asthma, she could not run and play like the others, so they taught her piano.
She named her firstborn after her father, Zeb Dickey.


Submitted by Catherine Alford Barton, Zeb's niece.

Cathy,
of all the stories that Dad told us I don't think that I ever heard that one and it was wonderful. I had no idea how McComb Baptist started so thank you so much. I do remember that Dad told us the story of Mammaw always being sick with asthma and how she had to smoke "special " cigarettes that made her feel better and Dad found out much later in life that they were marijuana cigarettes! That was quite a story coming from Dad.

[cappy70]

Rest in Peace, Capt. Zeb.

[peggy]

Hi Peg,

Amy and I send our prayers and thoughts to you and your family.

We didn't get a chance to meet your Dad, but after reading these notes we got a little glimpse of him. He was quite a man and quite a father. My first thought coming to this thread was how much you look like your dad, Peg. But the stories about your dad also tell me how much else your dad gave you. His resolve, his purpose, his love of dancing, his heart - they are all there in you, Peg. He left a wonderful legacy in you. And I can see from your sisters notes, in them as well.

Love Todd and Amy


Dear Todd and Amy,

How special to hear from you and I thank you for your kind words. Very uplifting and thoughtful. I hope you both are well and I wish good blessings for you both.

Love,

Peggy

[Johann Vilthomsen]

Rest in Peace!!!

http://unfinishedlives.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/military-funeral1.png?w=608&h=414

[u-168]

Never forgotten i salute this hero. :salute:


U-168

[whyattlll]

As a member of 2nd Battalion 8th Marines it was my great honor and privilege to serve at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, under the command of Capt. Zeb Alford, USN. SEMPER FI, Capt. Zeb.

[Baby Katie]

Rest in Peace!!!

http://unfinishedlives.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/military-funeral1.png?w=608&h=414
I love this image. I have one of my Dad's Flag from one of the Submarines he was the Commander of and I still display it on certain days at my house. As the girl that followed in his footsteps in the military I am extremely patriotic to the values the men and women of the military have given to the Flag.
Thank-you all for serving our country
Baby Katie

[Red Devil]

As an 'outsider', an Englishman, and as a WW2 researcher for a hobby, I recognise those that have 'done good' - and this gent was one of them. Because of the likes of him, patrolling dangerous waters whilst we slept in our beds, we were ABLE to sleep in those beds. We did not think of the might patrolling our waters, but they were there, unseen, silent, protecting.

I contacted the site that was linked and sent a message (as a none American, I am not allowed to join it) and their reply was gracious and wonderful. I have been 'accepted' as an honorary member!! I cannot join but there in spirit, what a lovely thought.

Speak his name, never will he be gone .............

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

Wonderful story Catherine, and truly faith is like the hickory, and it grows stronger as we practice it. So wonderful to see this sharing of special stories and memories, for that will be such a help for the Captain's loved ones in the days and years to come, the memories will be a bond for love to flow between him and all of you. God Bless you all and have a wonderful day.

Salute :)

[Rosencrantz]

My condolences.


-RC-

[mcf1]

May he rest in peace

[S. N. Brown, PhD]

Alford was one of a kind, a real American hero.

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

The memorial service is coming up as i recall, I send my best wishes to you all ...daughters, family and friends and associates... hope all are doing well today, and everyday, and God Bless.

[patti]

Well, here goes. The memorial service for my Dad in Houston was wonderful. His coffin was flag draped finally,thank goodness ,as that is a big military honor and he certainly deserved it.

So many great things were said about my Dad and I learned so much about his life in Houston with the Sons of the Republic of Texas, the Cavalla( I knew about that) and so many other things that he did and people whose life he touched.

There were 3 flags presented. One was flown over the US Capital, one over the State of Texas Capital, and one from the USS Texas and that was presented by the Sailor of the Year. I sure hope I can get one of those flags for the memory of my Dad.

At the reception afterward there were more people that talked about Dad and then we all left and my sisters and I went to the hospital that Dad was in to leave a gift cert. for the nurses that kept us so well informed.

I need to tell a funny story now. We all decided we needed a margarita so we went to Chuy's on Westheimer and they were having a soft opening for friends and family ( well we went on in anyway) and all the drinks were $3.00 so my daughter Samantha ordered a great margarita for all of us in honor of Dad and maybe they will even name the drink after Dad "the Skipper" so if you are ever there ask for Kirsten ( I think that was her name- and ask her is she remembers the crazy group from the grand opening that had a splash of orange juice in the margarita) and see if they did name the drink after Dad.

I really want to thank everyone one of you that has posted on this site from day one, you all have been a life saver to me and to my sisters. All of us to go this site daily to read the comforting words about my Dad.
His final service will be at Arlington National Cemetery on Nov. 30, 2009 at 9:00 am.:salute::salute::salute::salute::salute::salute ::salute::salute::salute::salute::salute:

Patti

[Onkel Neal]

I attended Capt. Zeb's Celebration Service with Mark (Mookie). It was a beautiful, moving ceremony. In attendance were his wife Joan, her family, Zeb's four daughters Patti, Peggy, Jane, and Katie and their families, and a large number of friends. There were three eulogies given.

His daughter Peggy Alford gave four wonderful, personal memorials by her three sisters and herself.

Rear Admiral Albert Kelln, USN (ret) gave a eulogy that highlighted Zeb's remarkable career in the US Navy, his zeal and devotion to country and his shipmates.

Barry Battlestein, a close friend of Zeb's, shared some memories.

State Representative Debbie Riddle (http://www.votedebbieriddle.com/debbie) shared some thoughtful words and presented one of the flags.

Afterward, Mark and I met and spoke with many wonderful people who attended the service, including Bruce, Joe Shook (SubVet and CHF Board member), Gil Raynor (orginal CHF Secretary), Ms. Riddle, Captain Jim Gray (USS Texas skipper), Mr. Carter Conlin of the Navy League, and many others.

[mookiemookie]

It was a truly beautiful service befitting a true American hero. I was honored to have attended. :salute:

[kiwi_2005]

Rest in peace and fair winds.

[Jimbuna]

I am pleased to hear the ceremony went as well as his family would/could have wished.

[Admiral Von Gerlach]

Patti, Peggy, Jane, and Katie, I am so glad the memorial went well and was such a special time for you all and for the memory of your dad. Neal and Mark I am very glad you were there to be there and to also represent all of us who care a lot and appreciate so much Capt Alford's dedication to so much. It is hard when someone special passes on but the comfort is that their spirit and the love that they shared remains with those who were part of both, and it has been both an homour and a deep gift for all the sharing here and for us to be able to honour a special man who serves us all .... God Bless you all and I will mark November 30th on my calender for special prayers and rememberance. I will ask a family member who is the keeper of a special emblem of honour to mark that day too, in Navy style, i will write you girls about this, and in the meantime, God Bless all the famliy and friends of the Captain and thank you Neal for giving us this chance to honour the Skpper's service, life and family here.

Salute :salute:

[peggy]

I attended Capt. Zeb's Celebration Service with Mark (Mookie). It was a beautiful, moving ceremony. In attendance were his wife Joan, her family, Zeb's four dauthers Patti, Peggy, Jane, and Katie and their families, and a large number of friends. There were three eulogies given.

His daughter Peggy Alford gave four wonderful, personal memorials by her three sisters and herself.

Rear Admiral Albert Kelln, USN (ret) gave a eulogy that highlighted Zeb's remarkable career in the US Navy, his zeal and devotion to country and his shipmates.

Barry Battlestein, a close friend of Zeb's, shared some memories.

State Representative Debbie Riddle (http://www.votedebbieriddle.com/debbie) shared some thoughtful words and presented one of the flags.

Afterward, Mark and I met and spoke with many wonderful people who attended the service, including Bruce, Joe Shook (SubVet and CHF Board member), Gil Raynor (orginal CHF Secretary), Ms. Riddle, Captain Jim Gray (USS Texas skipper), Mr. Carter Conlin of the Navy League, and many others.


Dear Neal,

What a pleasure it was to meet you this weekend. My sister Katie and I thank you for arranging a ride for us from the airport. Her husband, son, and I really appreciated your heartfelt generosity...it was above and beyond, I assure you. Tam, the driver, was a lovely man...he was right there as we came out of the baggage area. The car was luxurious and he was a safe driver and got us to our hotel swiftly. I had no idea you and your daughters were coming in from a 16 hour drive from Kansas. It was our joy to have you join us for lunch...we enjoyed getting to know you and your daughters, and really appreciated your making the time to join our family, when a good nap would have felt great I'm sure. I really liked hearing the story of how you got this web site started, and it has been a blessing for us girls in these days since our father died. I imagine you would not have known how much it would help 4 daughters in 2009, when you started it.

We appreciate your being at the service for Dad, and thank you for your comments about it. We all thought it was a perfect way to say our goodbyes to Dad. We were heartened to see all the fine people who were able to be there.

Thank you for bringing us back to the airport the day after Dad's service. You made our trip there seamless and what a pleasure it was not having to deal with logistics of transportation. I'm glad you and my father knew each other. I have a hunch he thoroughly enjoyed his times with you.

My family thanks you very much for your kindness toward us. My Dad would have been grateful.

God bless you,

Peggy

[peggy]

Patti, Peggy, Jane, and Katie, I am so glad the memorial went well and was such a special time for you all and for the memory of your dad. Neal and Mark I am very glad you were there to be there and to also represent all of us who care a lot and appreciate so much Capt Alford's dedication to so much. It is hard when someone special passes on but the comfort is that their spirit and the love that they shared remains with those who were part of both, and it has been both an homour and a deep gift for all the sharing here and for us to be able to honour a special man who serves us all .... God Bless you all and I will mark November 30th on my calender for special prayers and rememberance. I will ask a family member who is the keeper of a special emblem of honour to mark that day too, in Navy style, i will write you girls about this, and in the meantime, God Bless all the famliy and friends of the Captain and thank you Neal for giving us this chance to honour the Skpper's service, life and family here.

Salute :salute:

Dear Admiral,

I appreciate the kindess that comes through your words. I regret I was not able to meet you...I hope you are feeling better and getting through surgery well. I remember you said something about that. The service was very special to us, and such a blessing to have many wonderful people there who paid tribute to my Dad. It was a memorable celebration of his life.

Take good care,

Peggy

[peggy]

It was a truly beautiful service befitting a true American hero. I was honored to have attended. :salute:

MookieMookie,

Thank you very much for paying tribute to my Dad...we daughters really appreciate your being at his service. And your words were nice to hear.

Peggy

[Distortion]

when your hero falls from grace
all fairy tales r uncovered
myths exposed and pain magnified
the greatest pain discovered
u taught me 2 be strong
but im confused 2 c u so weak
u said never 2 give up
and it hurts 2 c u welcome defeat
when ure hero falls so do the stars
and so does the perception of tomorrow
without my hero there is only
me alone 2 deal with my sorrow
your heart ceases 2 work
and your soul is not happy at all
what r u expected 2 do
when ure only hero falls


Rest in peace,


Robert

[Baby Katie]

Well I can not say enough about all these men and people who supported us while we were in Houston at Dad's Funeral - I was given the honor of giving Dad his Last Farewell Salute since I was his Military daughter and it meant so much to me. I loved seeing the Sailor in his sailor outfit who spoke and was the first recipient of Dad's schlorship he started for something to do with sailors. I don't remember getting any schlorships and we were his 4 sailors all his life. How funny:woot:
Thank-you again - esp Neal for all you did for Peggy and me - You know what I'm talking about:hmmm:
Love to all
Baby Katie

[Onkel Neal]

hi Katie,

thanks for the kind words and the coffee card, that was sweet of you guys.

I found some more pics of Zeb I wanted to share with you. These were taken at the Captain's Banquet during the Texas commissioning ceremonies.


Capt. Zeb Alford, Joan Alford, and friend
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs121.snc1/5220_126008182527_535097527_2398773_7214718_n.jpg



Me, and Zeb, and two other fellows whose names escape me at the moment....
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs141.snc1/5220_126008187527_535097527_2398774_6479939_n.jpg



Zeb during the entertainment portion of the event. He was playing the role of Admiral Nimitz in a musical.
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs141.snc1/5220_126008192527_535097527_2398775_4129514_n.jpg

[lutzow]

Rest in peace eternal, Zeb.

Who knows when we meet.

[patti]

It has been almost 4 months since my Dad passed away and now he will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery on Nov 30, 2009. The long time from his death to his burial has been very difficult for me and I am having a very hard time coping with all of this.

I am in San Diego at a Realtors Convention and all around me is the sea, Naval Bases and sailing ships and it all reminds me so much of Dad. I wanted to call him on Veteran's Day like I always have to wish him a Happy Veterans Day and let him know how proud of him I was.

I love him and miss him so much and still can't believe that he is gone.

Patti

[Red Devil]

I am not a religious person by any means, but, if what I believe is true, then your father is at peace, content and waits in the wings to welcome you in due course. I wont go into details here, not the place, but I 'know' he is well.

[patti]

I am not a religious person by any means, but, if what I believe is true, then your father is at peace, content and waits in the wings to welcome you in due course. I wont go into details here, not the place, but I 'know' he is well.

I did not know if anyone was still posting here but it still gives me great comfort to read the posts so thank you very much for replying. The funeral in DC went very well and even though I was not able to go, one sister did and she said it was an awesome event, not really the right words, but I know you know what I mean.

Patti

[Onkel Neal]

Hi Patti,

I have some pictures to post here as soon as I get them off my camera...now where did I leave my camera?

[Carotio]

It has been almost 4 months since my Dad passed away and now he will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery on Nov 30, 2009. The long time from his death to his burial has been very difficult for me and I am having a very hard time coping with all of this.

Sorry for asking, but is this normal anywhere? I mean, 4 months are REALLY long time from the time of death to the actual buriel. So again sorry for asking, but what was the reason for this?

I have only attended 3 buriels in my life: a friend died at the age of 10 in an accident, and I was only 11, so I don't remember details, but 2005 and 2007 my grandparents died, and they were buried the first or second sunday after the death.