Ahoy - Mac's Web Log

Hello Mr. Gregory,

Thank you for having such a great website. Thanks to you I was able to find probably the last picture of USS Jarvis before it was sunk on August 9, 1942. My father knew a young man, Olden Hobbs, who was lost on the Jarvis. Just recently I've been able to gather information on the Jarvis  to share with the Hobbs family in Alabama. I sent one of them an e-mail telling them about your website so they can see a picture of the Jarvis.
I have a connection with the ship "Canberra" In 1963 I went on active duty with the US Navy and was sent to Radio School in San Diego, California. One day while in San Diego I decided to have a large picture taken of myself to send home to my parents.  he ship used as a backdrop for my picture was the USS Canberra which as you know was named for your ship. Perhaps knowing the history of HMAS Canberra began my love and fascination with Australia. The history of Australia and the United States have so many similarities. Perhaps that's why our two countries have such a bond. Some of my favorite movies are "The Man from Snowy River", "Return to Snowy River" The Far Country" and "All The Rivers Run". Perhaps I just like these movies because Sigrid Thornton  is in them.

I saw the article about your meeting with President Bush when the bell from USS Canberra was presented to Prime Minister Howard. That must have been a very special day for you. It's unfortunate that the events of the following day overshadowed that special day. You've had a very interesting life.

I especially like the section on your website that deals with the raiders of the Confederate Navy. I was born in Alabama so I've always been interested in the history of CSS Alabama. I've given a number of presentations to Civil War Roundtable organizations here in Michigan over the last few years. I'm planning to give a future talk on the other Confederate raiders and your website will be helpful.

Thank you for your interest in naval history and being willing to share it with so many people.

Best Regards,
Larry Hathcock

Larry,

Thank you for your nice comments about AHOY.

It is the combined work of my Web Master and friend, Terry Kearns in Atlanta Georgia, who makes my research and writing about different Naval events across this world of ours into the site that faces the internet for those who may be looking for something Naval, or by chance pay us a visit.

I have indeed led a great and interesting life with my share of good luck to survive some nasty incidents.

USS Jarvis was unlucky to be caught by a swarm of Japanese aircraft at Guadalcanal as she was trying to creep away from the area on her way to Australia for repairs. Glad you found her photograph.

The story of the Confederate Raiders has always fascinated me, again I am pleased to strike a chord with you.

Best wishes from Australia,

Mac. Gregory.

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