Ronald Dee Callihan joined the U.S. Navy in August of 1966. Ron attended boot camp in San Diego, California Company 058.
He boarded USS Ranger Cva61. Was assigned to V2 Division Catapult #2. Went topside soon after and was a hold back man for most of the time. we cross trained to do all the jobs involved with launching aircraft. This was dangerous and hard work. Also, very rewarding to see a successful launch. We learned to count on each other for the safety of our crew.
October 1967, we deployed to Vietnam for the first cruise. Was very fortunate to have such a great bunch of crew members to work with and two of them were also from Nebraska. Returned to Alemeda, California June of 1968. He was also deployed October 1968 - June 1969. Also in the service, October 1969 - May 1970. Got early out on October 12, 1970.
Ron says ”I WAS PROUD TO SERVE IN THE NAVY AND I WOULD DO IT AGAIN!”