To All hands attention please,
LTCMDR (Chaplain) Keith Beardsley embarked for the final frontier,
called to eternity at 10:35 am August 27-2008, I can very much tell all of You
what each of You meant to him. A number of You did seek his guidance
as a chaplain, since he was an ordained minister of the Gospel, this
meant a great deal to him. Even in his failing health, knowing that
he was needed and could still do a duty that came from his heart,
still made his last days still have more meaning than one could have ever
put into words. Yes the USS Antares is one short but only in physical,
but never in spirit. I ask our extended shipmates to remember that
none of You were ever out of his thoughts either.
This is a hard time for the moment, but we as a ship, and yes as a
Region, and for those of the 5th Brigade, since he was also a reserve
Marine in addition to everything else, will morn for a time. However,
Chaplain Beardsley would tell us afterwards, close ranks, and go on.
My thanks to all who have sent their condolences to Arlene and my
Family, it does ease the pain. It will not be forgotten The ship's bell has been
stricken 3 times, Chaplain, USS Antares, Departing.
Carry on.
The Skipper.
