Greetings from the Senior living member of the Sunfish Crew...at least I think I am. I had hoped to be here for this presentation, but I was unable to make it. The spirit is still strong, but the flesh has weakened somewhat over the years. In March of 1945 I took command of the Sunfish, relieving Captain Ed Shelby. Captain Shelby was a fearless submarine skipper, loved and revered by his devoted crew. Captain Ed, during his five War Patrols in command, was responsible for the majority of those small flags of the "Setting Sun" sewn on the Sunfish Battle Flag. They represent enemy shipping sunk or damaged as the result of attacks by the Sunfish.
I was fortunate and honored to take command of the Sunfish's well-trained and dedicated crew. As we sailed out of Guam on our mission to carry the war to the enemy, the enemy that perpetrated the attack on Pearl Harbor, on December 7th, 1941, I was overwhelmed by a strange feeling: "THIS IS WHAT I HAVE BEEN TRAINING FOR MY ENTIRE NAVAL CAREER!" I have heard it said that this gathering today is probably the last HURRAH for the Sunfish. Fear not, during the past year I have received communications from members of the Sunfish crew, their wives, their children and even grandchildren seaking information or extolling the exploits of the Sunfish. Memories of her are alive and well today and will be in the future. There is neither the time nor the space to sing the praises of individuals. There are too many deserving of recognition. I do thank Steven Finnigan, Curator of this Museum, for his help and cooperation in arranging this presentation and Richard (Dick) Considine for his tireless efforts in contacting members of the crew and collecting the various items to be presented to the museum, the place where they rightfully belong. Dick Considine was a QuarterMaster 2/C and my Battle Station Helmsman on the Sunfish's 11th and final patrol. Dick has graciously agreed to represent me and the Sunfish crew at this presentation.
JAKE REED
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