It is with a sad heart that I report the passing of Captain Robert S. Hayes on Tuesday 12 May 2009. I received a phone call from Mrs. (Betty) Hayes this evening. Captain Hayes was the First Commanding Officer of the Jouett. Captain Hayes, along with the original staff of officers, set the standard that lasted all the years that the Jouett was in commission. She even held that pride when she was sunk. Captain Hayes was born on 5 July 1922 he would have been 87 years old this July. I last talked to Captain Hayes this past February and he still expessed his love of the Jouett. He will be missed. There will be a Memorial Service next Friday 22 May 2009. Rick Smith, Wayne Semenkow and myself will be attending as representatives of the crew and the Association. Mrs. Hayes address is listed on the latest roster. I'm sure she would appreciate a card. If you don't have the address please send me an e-mail and I will see that it is passed on. I will post the information about the Memorial Service as I receive it.
Terry E. George, Plankowner, DLG-29
President USS Jouett DLG/CG 29 Association.