USS Henley DD-762 Association

USS Henley Association Treasurer Jerry Douglas made a presentation concerning the U.S. Navy Memorial, Washington D.C. during the business meeting at the Henley Reunion, Norfolk, Virginia, 2009. Jerry explained that a plaque honoring DD-762 could be placed on the Memorial Wall at a cost. of $3000. Members believed this was an excellent project and Jerry authorized to pursue the objective. He was confident that we could raise the necessary dollars for the plaque to be installed prior to the 2010 reunion. The goal was quickly reached through member donations and plans made to expedite the design of the plaque and for a dedication ceremony scheduled for August 22, 2010 in the nation’s capital.

The day arrived and nine USS Henley shipmates were in Washington for the dedication. Shipmates and families entered a large theater for the ceremony, graciously greeted by Director Paul Haley and the staff of the Navy Memorial. Several shipmates spoke next, sharing warm memories of life and times aboard DD-762. Reporting back to the membership following the dedication, Jerry stated with pride, “Henley Shipmates came through, as we knew they would.”

Director Haley presented the Association with a beautiful replica plaque mounted on a walnut base later displayed at the St. Louis Reunion and to be on view in San Antonio 2011 and at all future USS Henley reunions.

Thanks to shipmates, families, and friends for generous donations to preserve the legacy of USS Henley and to those who traveled to Washington for the dedication.

Henley plaque at Navy Memorial 2nd to honor ship

The first, a decorative wall tile, was dedicated 2005 at the New Mexico Veteran’s Memorial, Albuquerque, in an outdoor amphitheater with a spectacular view of the beautiful New Mexico mountains, the site of the third annual USS Henley Memorial Service, 2004.

The tile was designed, coordinated to completion, and financed through the generosity of Gerald Welsh, Ensign, aboard 60-61, Commander, U S Navy (Ret)

Association Objective - Legacy

To cherish and preserve the history of a great ship

USS Henley Plaque at U S Navy Memorial