Introduction to the Link in the Chain Program

At our recent 45th reunion, several speakers referred to a "Link in the Chain Program". The Class of 59 is scheduled to become active in this effort in a few months. Our Executive Committee recently endorsed the concepts of the program and authorized participation by the class. Data about the activity is presented for your information and consideration.

The program involves a class "linking" with the class 50 years junior following the graduation of the senior class. Hence, the Class of 59 will be linked with the Class of 2009. The effort was initiated with the Class of 1950 presenting collar bars to the graduating Class of 2000 at the graduation ceremony. Subsequently, the program has increased in scope as class and USNA administration enthusiasm has grown. The effort is an opportunity to influence midshipmen in their understanding of and appreciation for the camaraderie unique among USNA graduates.

Potential activities for the 50 year senior class to support and interact with the junior class have been identified for each year the junior class is at USNA. Activity and participation in any event is at the discretion of the 50 year senior class. The greatest opportunity for participation, with the subsequent greatest effort, is in the plebe and first class years. A detailed listing of specific opportunities for interaction over the four year period from induction to graduation days will be provided in later announcements.

The 50 year senior class is asked to provide both personnel and financial support. Personnel support includes speakers as well as attendees at various events. Financial support of about $12,500 is needed for picnics, collar devices and administrative matters in getting out the word about activities. Since participation in any event is at the discretion of the senior class and administrative costs vary, an exact cost is difficult to establish, but a good estimate is possible based on prior classes activity. The bottom line is that involvement will require a commitment by classmates and use of our limited class funds. The program requires participation by many more folks than the few who live in Annapolis for the class to be a true and meaningful LINK IN THE CHAIN.

Announcement of activities and solicitation for volunteers will be made via the class web page, email, in our Shipmate column, and by direct mail. Most prior classes have limited their mailing to the Annapolis/Baltimore/DC area to control costs. Should someone want to volunteer for a specific event, please advise me and I will maintain our master files. Should anyone have suggestions about our method of participation, please feel free to forward your positive comments also. We are not seeking new activities or ways to interact with the Class of 2009 however. The list is quite extensive as you will see in future notices. And we will need some financial support to our class treasury which will be gladly accepted and greatly appreciated.

I have been designated as the coordinator for the class effort. Jack Brons has agreed to serve also. That is two - now we need your help and participation.

email to Marty Finerty;

tel: 410-849-2502