Date: 2006-08-22 17:38:53
Robert M. Rains (rrains@centurytel.net)

Hello to All My Dear Leahy Shipmates, 

Words cannot begin to describe just how happy I was to see all of you 
the past few days. It really hit me hard as to just how important my 
time on the Leahy was. I can say without a doubt, despite all my other 
military experiences, that my time on the Leahy was the defining time 
in my military career. It was the cornerstone for the development of 
the deep and close personal bond that I share with all of you. And that 
being able to meet Dennis Kobylarz, Dick Murtagh, Dick Hall, and Barry 
Fallon added to that bond. Why? Because we all shared that beautiful and 
wonderfully unique piece of floating Naval Technology called the U.S.S. 
Leahy. This past weekend also reminded me of just how mortal I am and 
that in the future, no matter what, I will do all I can to attend the 
follow on reunions. Whether they be just a division+ affair or a full 
blown total ship’s reunion. But somehow I think the smaller ones will 
always be the best. I feel really bad that the rest of you were unable 
to attend our brief meeting in Norfolk and then at Koby’s. It was truly 
a magical moment in time. 

Don’t be afraid to stay in touch you guys, I mean it too. 

May you have Fair Winds and Following Seas 


Your Leahy Shipmate, 

Robert M. (Bob) Rains