Signal Charlie

CAPT Dick Catone, USN (Ret.) following a memorial service for a fellow helicopter pilot, is credited with the following statement: “I guess we are all in the starboard delta waiting for Signal Charlie.” Starboard Delta is the holding pattern for the airborne Search and Rescue helicopters on the starboard (right) side of the aircraft carrier. They fly at a low altitude so as not to interfere with the fixed-wing aircraft recovery pattern, and only land when the last fixed-wing aircraft is safe on board. When tower calls the helicopter to pass “Charlie” to a landing spot, the crew knows the fixed-wing recovery is complete, all is well, and it is time to come back. Hence, the statement appears appropriate that someday we will receive our own “Signal Charlie” and will be called home for a final landing.

Signal Charlie has been created to inform our membership and honor the passing of fellow unrestricted aviators. It is only as good as the information we receive.  If you have an obituary or other information that you would like to provide concerning the passing of a shipmate, co-worker, or friend of the community, please contact the NHA National Office at signalcharlie@navalhelicopterassn.org and we will get the word out.

CAPT Allen Ellis Weseleskey, USN (Ret.)

Captain Allen Ellis "Wes" Weseleskey, USN (Ret.), born on June 19, 1935, was launched into his ultimate flight destination: “God and Jesus’ Heavenly Sanctuary” on May 28, 2024. He loved God, America’s melting pot of humanity, and family. A native of Pittsburgh, PA, steel & coal mining region he initially lived in Allegheny County’s “Russian Patch” of Bairdford, PA. Both sets of grandparents migrated with their children from Russia. Their original language spoken was Russian, which was utilized throughout the Russian Patch Village. Typical of Eastern Europeans at that time, when a son approached age 13 his education might come to an end. Wes’s father exclaimed he was to go to PITT, not the University, but to the coalmine pit! Nixing that, at 14, Wes started working at Allegheny Ludlum Steel Mill. Dr. Duane E. Wareham, PhD, his mentor, inspired him to join the Musician’s Union and take an audition at Valley Forge Military Academy for a Music/Band Scholarship. Having successfully passed, Wes entered VFMA as a Bandsman and vocalist to complete high school and the two-year Junior College for a Business Associate Degree as an ROTC Cadet. Graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve; upon reaching pay grade E-5 he was admitted to the Naval Aviation Cadet Program, commissioned as an Ensign, Naval Aviator / Aircraft Carrier Attack Pilot. During this time, he met Sally E. Bilbie, of Arnold, PA at a dance back in Springdale. During the second dance with her, he was so overwhelmed with this June Allyson “look-alike” beauty that he knew this was to be his bride and life-time mate. So, he proposed to the 16-year-old miss! True to intuition, “Admiral Sally” kept this wonderful romance percolating for over 70 years.

LTJG Weselesky became a Naval Aviator on January 29, 1959 at HTG-1, NAS Ellyson Field, Pensacola, Florida. LTJG Weselesky is Navy Helicopter Pilot Designation Number R-4529. Wes’s 30 year career sea duties took him to deployments in the Western Pacific aboard USS Hancock, USS Midway, USS Oriskany, and USS Kitty Hawk to become a Tail-Hook Landing Centurion (100+) several times over. He flew combat air patrols between Taiwan, Matsu, and Quemoy Islands when the Chinese bombarded the two lessor Islands in 1958-9. Changing aircraft types, he chose helicopters and seaplanes, flying AirSea Rescue and Antisubmarine and Helicopter Gunship Attack missions. He deployed in the Caribbean, Atlantic, Arctic, and Mediterranean Oceans in USS Randolph, USS San Diego, USS Detroit, USS Inchon, and commanded USS Guam. He also commanded HC-6. During his 14 month in-country Vietnam combat tour as a “Plank Owner” of Helicopter Attack (Light)-3, The SEAWOLVES, earned him a renewed friendship with three WWII LST amphibious Navy ships his mother and uncle had helped construct during the war effort in the 1940s. (USS Hunterdon County, USS Garrett County, and USS Harnett County). The LST’s were mother ships for River Patrol Boat (PBR) Units and a pair of Seawolf gunship helicopters. Wes flew 450 combat missions and was only shot down once in enemy territory, escaping capture to rejoin his shipmates at Vinh Long in the Mekong Delta. While serving there during the TET Offensive, that base was held under siege for ten days and nights. Enemy forces breached defensive perimeters three times. Weseleskey’s exposure to intense air and ground combat in Vietnam was recognized by awards from the Republic of South Vietnam, the U.S. Army, and Navy. They include: the Navy Cross, two Distinguished Flying Crosses; the Navy/Marine Corps Medal, US Army Bronze Star Medal with “Valor” (for hand-to-hand combat defending and repelling enemy intruders at the Army Airfield; The Air Medal with “Valor” plus 31 Flight Strike Air Medals; The Navy Achievement Medal with “Valor,” the Purple Heart Medal (combat wounds); 4 Presidential Unit Citations;

Vietnam’s Cross of Gallantry, with Palm; the Air Cross of Gallantry with Silver Wings; and the Honor Medal, First Class. His other awards include the Legion of Merit (as Director, Navy Command Center); two Meritorious Award Medals (Commanding Officer, HC-6 Squadron and Ombudsman of the Navy); the Navy Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal; Expert Rifle Medal, and Expert Pistol Medal. He is the recipient of the Naval Aviation Commandery’s “John Henry Towers Award for Excellence in Naval Aviation,” a recognition usually awarded to Flag/General Officers.

Wes’s shore duties included U.S. Naval Postgraduate School to garner certification as an Aircraft Accident Investigator and a Bachelor’s Degree, International Relations & Political Science. Later, again for a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management, followed by a Master’s Degree for Integrated Logistics at the National Defense University (ICAF) located at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C. He was also an FAA Certified Air Traffic Controller and Assistant Officer in Charge of the White House Helicopter Facility at Naval Station, Anacostia, D.C., during the JFK presidency. While training Ground Controllers by flying a USMC helicopter during a stormy night flight, he experienced a transmission failure while in the clouds; he successfully autorotated to a crash landing on a wet uphill slope and the right wheel dug into the mud, causing the aircraft to roll over and destroy itself. The perfectly executed procedure resulted in all three crewmembers exiting the event without a scratch! He was commended for his safe airmanship and execution of Emergency Procedures by the President’s USMC Helicopter Commanding Officer.

Later, as Ombudsman of the Navy, Captain Wes directed the White House/Congressional Correspondence Unit that received, investigated, and responded to issues through political complaints of Naval parents and service personnel about various conditions their constituents believed to be unsatisfactory. A 72-hour turn-around to comply and respond initially demanded exceptionally high stress levels and coordination of the Staff’s workloads. Able to overcome backlogs, smooth working conditions, his staff petitioned the Chief of Naval Personnel Wes’s orders to command an aircraft carrier and remain as the Ombudsman due to the heightened morale and increased job satisfaction! Weseleskey’s final demanding duty station was a Flag/Rear Admiral billet as Director of The Navy Command Center (CNO, OP-64) at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C. This assignment saw the events of the Grenada Student Rescue Operations, USMC Beirut Barracks Explosion, the Iranian mining of the Suez Canal, and the Soviets shooting down Korean Airliner 007 during the same period. The international coverage required all OP-64 Reservists to be called up to assist in handing the intense, overwhelming Naval action requirements. It was an amazing life-time adventure . As a mentor, life-long Musician, Aviation Mariner, Human Resource Manager, and Financial Planner, he placed the highest value on taking care of his marriage, family religious associations, and the numerous people he worked with and for to improve their life’s situation. He championed anything concerning America, the Constitution, and the many military service personnel, winning Veteran’s Administration Disability Claims awards that had been denied.

Following the Lord’s admonitions, Wes was charitable to a fault, uplifting other’s careers and frequently exposing himself to dangers and higher management echelon’s criticism regarding safety and operational missions’ accomplishments. In keeping with his ultimate services to America and humanity, his remains are donated to Virginia’s Medical Science Department for some fledgling doctor to investigate human anatomy. It would appear that a guardian angel was assigned and has been guiding this citizen of America and its blessed ideals that were ingrained by his relocated and savvy Russian immigrant forefathers.

He is survived by his beloved soulmate and wife, Sally E. (Bilbie) Weseleskey, sons Scott Henry, of Virginia Beach, VA, Jon Andrew (Jake) of Arlington, VA, and adopted Brazilian son, Mauricio Sousa Lima. He is predeceased by sons Edward Allen, and Bruce Duane Weseleskey, and both of his immigrant parents.

A memorial service was held on August 16, 2024 at Eastern Shore Chapel Episcopal Church inVirginia Beach, Virginia.

Fair Winds and Following Seas CAPT Weseleskey!

CAPT Richard Wayne Strickler, USN (Ret.)

Richard “Rich” Strickler passed away on August 14, 2024, at the age of 76 in Jacksonville, Florida. Born on May 22, 1948, in Hastings, Nebraska, Rich grew up in Worland, Wyoming, graduating from Worland High School. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Wyoming, Laramie.

Designated as a Naval Aviator in 1972, at HT-18, NAS Ellyson Field, Pensacola, Floria, ENS Strickler is Navy Helicopter Pilot Designator Number R-12343. He dedicated 30 years of service in the United States Navy. His accomplishments include serving as the Commanding Officer of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Fifteen (HS-15), Executive Officer of the USS Guadalcanal (LPH-7), and Commanding Officer of the Naval Air Station, Corpus Christi, TX. Rich should be envied for his passion for his Naval Service. He embraced his duties and travels, especially while serving on several aircraft carriers and duty in Japan. He felt like he missed nothing in life because of it. After Navy retirement, he worked at USAA in Military Affairs, San Antonio, Texas. He retired to Jacksonville, Florida in 2010 to be close to family and be a dedicated Grandpa. Besides his family, his other joys were the Strickler family cabin in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming, fly fishing, happy hour on Meadowlark Lake while trolling for trout, playing golf, and skiing the expert slopes.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Ferrell Strickler, sons Robert Strickler (wife Amy), Mike Strickler (wife Jana); stepdaughter Kate Maggi; grandchildren, Gabrielle, Emma, and Luca; sister Barbara Strickler Groom (husband John); Uncle Harold Coe; former spouse Christine White Edgington, mother of his sons. Rich was preceded in death by his father, C.D. “Red” Strickler and mother, Eleanor Strickler.

A Memorial Service was held September 20, 2024, at Quinn-Shalz Funeral Home, in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Inurnment of his cremated remains is planned for Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Hospice & Palliative Care, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257, or give online at support.communityhospice.com. Friends often heard Rich say, “Who loves ya?” I think it’s safe to say, “Who loves ya Rich? Yes, we all do."

From CAPT Monte Squires, USN (Ret.) File this under, "It’s a small world” category.

1940s: My pop, Dick Squires, and Rich’s dad, Carroll “Red” Strickler, were buddies in Nebraska. Dad and Red went to the same high school, played basketball together, got in fights, and smoked cigarettes together. Red even asked my dad to sing at the wedding of Red and Ellie (Rich’s parents). Dad wasn’t the greatest singer but, when Red asked you to do something, you did it.

1950s: Stricklers settled in Worland, Wyoming, while the Squires family lived in Aurora, Colorado (350 miles apart). At least every other year, we’d travel to Worland or the Strickler gang would invade Aurora.

1960s: I’m playing football for the BYU Cougars and Rich is equipment manager for Wyoming Cowboy Football. Same conference (WAC) so we’d see each other every year, in the fall, on the gridiron.

1970s: Pensacola, Florida, and it’s my Aviation Officer Candidate School (AOCS) “Candidate Officer” Week. As I scan the crowd of new “poopies,” whose sweaty, pumpkin face do I see…Rich Strickler. I go over to give him a hug but the drill instructors have him “locked-up” so tightly he won’t even look at me.

1970s/80s/90s: Following flight school, my career is west coast HS and Rich is east coast HS. He eventually commands HS-15 and I’ve got HS-14 about the same time. Major Command Selection rolls around and I’ve got the HS WING in JAX while Rich commands NAS Corpus Christi.

Great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget. Richard Wayne Strickler will not be forgotten. Love you shipmate. “RIP.”

Fair Winds and Following Seas CAPT Strickler!

CAPT Brian K. Paul, USNR

ENS Paul became a Naval Aviator on April 21, 1993 at HT-18, NAS Whiting Field, Milton, FL. ENS Paul is Navy Helicopter Pilot Designation Number R-22418.

CAPT Brian K. Paul, age 56, of San Angelo, Texas passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024. Brian was born on August 10, 1968 in Fairfield, Iowa to James and Joyce Paul. Brian attended Trinity Christian Academy and graduated in the class of 1986. He later went on to obtain a Bachelor of Business from Texas Tech University. Brian continued his educational journey until he earned his Master’s Degree in Justice Administration, Cum Laude, from Norwich University. He was commissioned into the Navy in 1986 where he served for 23 years as a pilot. Brian also worked as a federal agent and pilot for Customs and Border Protection. After retiring from CBP, Brian continued his career as an air ambulance pilot.

Brian had two sons, Wyatt and Garrett. Being a father was something Brian took pride and joy in, striving to pass down his strong work ethic and leadership skills. His family was rounded out when he married Ginger Paul on March 21, 2024. Ginger was his true love.

When Brian wasn’t working or spending time with his beloved family, he enjoyed going hunting. The great outdoors was his playground. He also enjoyed ski trips where he wasn’t afraid to hit the slopes.

Brian was a compassionate person who handled everything with immense care. His dedication to serving others could be seen over the span of his careers, his family, and relationships with friends he curated throughout his life. Brian beamed with joy having the titles of “Dad” and “Husband.” His loving nature and kind spirit will be missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Brian was preceded in passing by his father, James Paul. Left to cherish Brian’s memory are his beloved wife, Ginger Paul; his sons, Wyatt Paul and Garrett Paul; mother, Joyce Paul-Schubert; sister, Allison Nolan; and nephew, Rion Nolan.

A Celebration of Brian’s Life was held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 in San Angelo, TX. Interment followed on Monday, September 16, 2024 at Texas Veterans State Cemetery in Abilene, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the Paul Family asks that you make a memorial donation in Brian’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project.

The Paul Family would also like to thank everyone who helped Brian along the way.

Fair Winds and Following Seas CAPT Paul!

CDR John Hubert Smith, USN (Ret.)

LTJG Smith became a Naval Aviator on March 24, 1971 at HT-8, NAS Ellyson Field, Pensacola, FL. LTJG Smith is Navy Helicopter Pilot Designator Number R-11504 and a former HS-6er, NAS Imperial Beach, CA.

John Hubert Smith, age 79, was tragically taken from us on August 2, 2024. John was born to Fred O’Neill Smith and Margaret Jane Sarver in 1945 and raised in Santa Rita, New Mexico. John graduated from Cobre High School in 1963. After graduating from the University of New Mexico NROTC Program in 1969, John was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy and served as a helicopter pilot for over 20 years, including a Med cruise with HS-6 in 1972.

John served at multiple Navy installations throughout his distinguished career, including Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, Kauai and at Naval Air Station Fallon as a Range Officer. After John retired as a Commander in the United States Navy, he worked as a civilian for the Department of Defense. He eventually returned home to New Mexico to work at White Sands Missile Range until his retirement from civil service in 2007. John’s love for learning and curious nature fostered many hobbies which enriched his life. He always loved books and movies (especially Sci-Fi) and kept an extensive collection of both. He was a gifted artist early in life and continued to draw and paint until taken from us. He was also an accomplished gamer and achieved Veteran Legend status in Elder Scrolls Online which placed him among the top one percent of players worldwide.

John was preceded in death by his father Fred O’Neill Smith, his mother Margaret Jane Sarver, and his brother Fred O’Neill Smith, Jr. John is survived by his beloved wife, Erika Smith, of Las Cruces, New Mexico and his three daughters, Johana Smith, Ashley Smith O’Neill, and Victoria Smith as well as his four grandchildren and his fur and feather babies. John’s extraordinary life will be celebrated in a private ceremony at a later date. Originally published in Las Cruces Sun.

Fair Winds and Following Seas CDR Smith!

CDR Joseph Michael LoPresti Jr., USN (Ret.)

ENS LoPresti became a Naval Aviator on April 12, 1971 at HT-8, NAS Ellyson Field, Pensacola, Florida. ENS LoPresti is Navy Helicopter Pilot Designator #R-11549. LTJG LoPresti joined HC-7 on March 23, 1972, and departed June 30, 1975 when the squadron was stood down. He also served in HS-8.

Joseph Michael LoPresti Jr., at the age of 77, of Burke, Virginia, was called to his eternal rest on March 27, 2024. A native of Corona, New York, born on May 24, 1946, CDR LoPresti served with distinction as a helicopter pilot in the United States Navy for 22 years, a testament to his unwavering commitment and valor. After serving his country with honor, Joseph pursued academic excellence, earning a Master’s Degree in Education from George Mason University and a rewarding career in teaching. Joseph was a man who cherished the joys of life, finding pleasure in pastimes such as golfing, skiing, and embracing the great outdoors through walking and running. Left to honor his memory are his beloved son, Joseph LoPresti, III, and daughter-in-law Ellen; his sister Linda; his brothers Chris (and wife Candi), Bart (and wife Sue), and Patrick (and wife Katya). He was a cherished uncle to numerous nieces and nephews and a great-uncle to many grandnephews and grandnieces. Joseph was reunited in death with his beloved wife of 47 years, Judith LoPresti, and predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Helen LoPresti. A solemn graveside service for family was held in May. Arrangements are entrusted to Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, Fairfax, Virginia. In remembrance, Joseph Michael LoPresti Jr.’s legacy of service, education, and familial devotion stands as a pillar for all who know him. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store. Published by The Washington Post on Apr. 7, 2024.

Fair Winds and Following Seas CDR LoPresti!