Oldies But Goodies

Robert A. Moffitt, LtJg. is an Ernest G. Small Plank Owner.  He was on the commissioning crew, made the initial shakedown cruise in 1945 and the Small's first Med cruise in 1946.

Bob was Communications Officer during his tour on the Small and one of his ancillary duties was Editor in Chief of the ships weekly newsletter, Small Talk.  The original Small Talk was published from October, 1945 until mid-1946.  Bob has carried copies of several early issue Small Talk newsletters for 65 years.  He has presented another great gift to the members of our association that bridges the years and delivers stories, messages and cartoons in the vernacular of the time.  When I read the first couple of issues, I heard echos of my father's voice from my childhood.  He served in the Navy during WWII on the Marshall Islands in the Pacific.  I hope you enjoy these historical treasures as much as I have.

 The image quality of the pages reflects the 65 years of age since they were originally published.  Bob has done an excellent job of keeping them in a condition to recreate on this web site.  As time allows, we will make an effort to restore the graphic images to a more web presentable condition.

Bob Moffitt is also a new contributor to our quarterly newsletter.  His first story is about the ship's visit to Saudi Arabia ans Yemen and it apperars in the May 2010 issue of Small Talk.

Bob and his wife, Frances will be attending the USS Ernest G. Small's 17th annual reunion in San Diego, CA.  I am looking forward to meeting them and I hope you will join us for the fun

Dennis Vinson