We were honored to have very special guest, Mr. James Taylor, who oversees a number of Navy Projects at Pearl Harbor and his family at our reunion. Among the many projects Jim manages is the military burials at Pearl. Any Pearl Harbor Survivor may have his ashes scattered on the waters of the harbor. In the case of USS ARIZONA and USS UTAH Survivors, Navy divers place an urn containing their remains in the hulls of the ships. These ceremonies are carried out in a most dignified and respectful manner, generally in the presence of loved ones.
In the photo below Jim receives a certificate of Appreciate and a lifetime membership in the USS UTAH ASSOCIATION. The inscription on the certificate reads:
The USS UTAH ASSOCIATION
Proudly Bestows A
LIFETIME HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
TO
JIM TAYLOR
In appreciation of his outstanding dedication
and commitment to the preservation of the
USS UTAH and the shipmates entombed
within herJim also has insured that the UTAH Memorial is well maintained and when required is refurbished to insure its perpetuity. These, and other endeavors carried out by Jim has earned him the highest respect and a special place in the hearts of USS UTAH Survivors their loved ones.
Looking on is our PR Director, Mary Kreigh, daughter of Chief Yeoman Albert T. D. Wagner, and, twin sister to baby Nancy Wagner whose remains were entombed in the Hull of the courtesy of the Japanese.
At left in the blue Hawaiian shirt is our newly elected Association President Henry West.
Below: Kate Gilman is presented a certificate by a "familiar face." The inscription on the certificate reads:
"The USS UTAH ASSOCIATION
Proudly Bestows A
LIFETIME HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
TO KATE GILMAN In appreciation of her outstanding dedication
and support of the USS UTAH."In addition to strongly supporting Mary in the planning, preparation and execution of our reunions, Kate, a CPA, has worked ardently, volunteering her time to insure that our Association becomes a tax-exempt, charitable organization in the eyes of the IRS.
For anyone who aspires to experience the torture of a Migraine Headache, take a "peek" into the IRS rules and procedures rquired for an organization to attain this highly coveted status!
