USS Ranger Reunion Association

Do you know about this great organization entitled the USS RANGER (CVA/CV-61) Reunion Association, Inc.? Yes, we are incorporated, as a non-profit group.

For several years, since 1988, a great group of RANGERMEN, started by plankowner, John Muzio (V-1 Division) had been meeting once a year to renew former friendships. It became clear to them that the ship deserved better recognition than just a few people who swapped sea stories once a year. In August 1990, those who attended the Reunion in Charleston, SC, decided to expend the time and the effort to organize and accomplish some positive "good" in the name of our ship.

There are all types of former sailors from RANGER, plankowners, seamen, chiefs, officers and former Commanding officers, including TAD's, Squadron members, and Marine Detachment, all RANGERMEN, who cherish the memories and superb performance of RANGER!

Some of us have forgotten the important pieces of history that RANGER participated in the development of a Navy for the United States. The current USS RANGER (CVA/CV-61) is the 7^th ship to bear the name RANGER. The 1^st RANGER was the first man-o-war, an 18-gun sloop of war, of the fledgling United States to defeat a British ship – HMS Blake. We have a superb historian, Frank Thoma, who will keep you spellbound with stories of the RANGER’s achievements, with his assortment of cruise books, and memorabilia, through Desert Storm, donated by our former shipmates.

Our USS RANGER (CVA/CV-61) Reunion Association, Inc. has as its purpose, clearly stated in its documents, to promote charitable and educational purposes. We will offer charitable contributions to such groups as the USS Ranger Foundation (Save Ranger!), Support our Ships, and the Navy Memorial Association.

Once a year we will have a reunion where we will gather to share our common camaraderie as RANGERMEN. Swap sea stories?, Yes!, Conduct business?, Yes!. All towards achieving our goals in the name of our ship, the USS RANGER (CVA/CV61).

The only membership rule is that you formerly served on the CVA/CV-61 as a crewmember, member of an attached Air Group, or support staff. The annual dues are $10.00, for three years $25 and for Life Membership only $75.00.

It is estimated that over 50,000 men have served on the USS RANGER (CVA/CV-61) since her commissioning in 1957 to her decommissioning in 1993. We must preserve her high standards of performance and accomplishments by joining and contributing to the historical significance of our great ship, and perpetuate our motto, "TOP GUN – BAR NONE!"

Membership in the Association is open to anyone who has ever served on the USS Ranger CVA/CV-61 in any capacity including Air Groups and Squadrons, Flag Units, Marine Detachments, etc.

Dues are on an annual, calendar year basis and are $10 per member, save money $25 for three years or become a life member at $75.

Please complete the application and address your check to:

USS Ranger Reunion Association, Inc.

Mail to:

George Meoli
Secretary/Treasurer
USS Ranger Reunion Assoc.
1740 Durham Road
Guilford, CT 06437
(203) 453-4279
USS.Ranger@yahoo.com