UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY UNOFFICIAL NEWSLETTER


From: 		Merkle, Ed CAPT
Sent:		Sunday, August 03, 2003 1:20 PM
To:		AllActNY
Subject:		Admiral Richard Bennis - Crossing the Bar - 3 August 2003
Staff,
With a heavy heart and sadness, I regret to inform you of the passing of
one of our shipmates, Admiral Dick Bennis, USCG, Retired.  As most  of
you know, Admiral Bennis served as the previous Commander, Activities
New York and led the unit during one of the nation's most challenging
times in history.
After a courageous fight with cancer, the Admiral passed away early this
morning with his family at his side.  I can only comment that cancer is
indiscriminate and life is not fair.
Admiral Bennis' Memorial Service at the ACTNY Chapel is scheduled for 
Friday, August 15th at 1300.  Mrs. Bennis and the family will attend.
The Arlington National Cemetery interment is tentatively scheduled for 
Monday, September 23rd at 1300.
Mrs. Bennis has requested donations in lieu of flowers for the medical 
cancer clinic at Sloan-Kettering which provided the Admiral's care 
over the last 4 years.  At this time we do not know the correct 
"payee" for the checks, I'll pass the information as soon as its'  known.

I ask that you keep his wife, Gloria, and the family in your thoughts
and prayers.

Resp/  Captain Ed Merkle
Deputy Commander
US Coast Guard Activities New York


"Crossing the bar"
by Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Sunset and evening star
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have cross'd the bar.

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