PEA RIDGE — The USS Snook Base of northwest Arkansas will be hosting the first formal decommissioning ceremony of a World War II submarine veterans chapter - the Diamond Chapter of Arkansas. The ceremony will be held on Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Clarion Hotel in Bentonville. While there have been previous decommissioning ceremonies of WWII submarine veterans chapters, this will be the first formal one. Included in the ceremony will be the reading of the Diamond Chapter charter, a resume of the chapter's accomplishments, a reading of the decommissioning orders and a presentation of a flag that has flown over the USS Snook memorial in North Little Rock.
Also planned for the evening's event will be the presentation of a House Resolution honoring WWII submarine veterans by Congressman John Boozman. Subforce Master Chief Jeff Garrison will say a few words on behalf of the United States Submarine Service. A Tolling of the Boats and a remembrance of POW/MIA's will be conducted as well.
This ceremony is open to all friends of submariners who would like to attend. For further information and a registration package, contact either Terry Fallatt at 986-9180 or Sharleen Rathmell at 644-4440. Those wishing to attend must register no later than Sept. 1.
Community, Pages 5 on 08/19/2009