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We are currently preparing a memorial Web page for Jack. If you have any comments or photos that you wish to submit to Jack's memorial Web page, please send an email to [email protected]
~~ Memorial Services for Jack Carter ~~ Thursday,
March 1 at 10 AM
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About Jack (From ARRL web-site) Jack R. Carter, KC6WYX, SK: Jack Carter, KC6WYX, of Rancho Palos Verdes, California, died February 20. He was 71. An ARRL member, Carter served as executive officer of the World War II Tank Landing Ship LST-325, which recently completed a 4200-mile journey from the Greek island of Crete to Mobile, Alabama, and gained extensive news coverage en route. Carter had ham radio gear aboard and used the WW2LST call sign of the USS LST Amateur Radio Club while under way. According to a report in Stars and Stripes, 29 sailors--men in their 60s, 70s and older--signed on to deliver the ship to a permanent berth to be used as a floating museum. Most of the sailors were US Navy retirees. Carter, an electrical engineer, was past president of the Palos Verdes Amateur Radio Club. For details of Carter's "voyage of a lifetime," photos of the voyage, and information on the PVARC, visit the radio club's Web site, and the LST Web site at http://www.palosverdes.com/lst887/lst325.html
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| Tributes to Jack Carter |
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Subject: How lucky I was to have Jack as my XO Jack and I made all the decisions of LST 325 together. We went up the "hill" to the CDR. of the Hellenic Base, who was in charge of the "SYROS" project many times. It was Jack who asked that CDR. what he was having for Christmas dinner? The CDR. said why? Jack said because if we don't start getting something done we are going to be here for Christmas! He took us immediately up to the Commandant of the base, and told him we needed to get some action from the General Staff, and we did! We had that as a joke and the CDR. liked that, and he became a true friend of ours and everyone on LST 325. One day as Jack and I came down the hill, we had just tried for the 10th time to get the paper work done, so we could leave, with no results. He said to me "Bob if we don't get something done soon the whole crew is going to give up and go home! You and I will be the only ones here come Christmas." I told him that I had news for him; he would be there alone! There are many stories. He was one fine man, and I am the luckiest guy in the world to have had him as my XO and friend. We toured the Island of Crete the last two Sundays before we left. We went to the English Ship, BRAMBLELEAF, for dinner several times in Gabraltar. He never indicated to me he wasn't feeling good except for the last two weeks at sea. He was quiet, courageous, intelligent, and a great leader. I can't say enough good things about Jack Carter. I will miss him. Capt. Bob It was an honor for Barb and myself to get to know Jack and Jeanne when we attended the reunions of the LST 887 and we were looking forward to many more. We followed his "dream" of returning the 325 to the USA through all the entries he made on the web site and only wish that he had more time to enjoy what he and his shipmates accomplished. Well done sailor, God love you. Dale & Barb Schmidt Nekoosa, WI Jack's death moved me more than I could have imagined. I heard about it while looking out of my study over the Bay of Gibraltar -- and at the very spot where in late November last year, I boarded LST 325 to ride her in to the Cammell-Laird Shipyard here in Gibraltar. The LST's aearly morning appearance was dramatic -- a made-for-movie moment -- with the old girl chugging around the tip of the Rock, caught in the bright sunshine, and with the North African coastline square behind her. She looked as if she'd been through two world wars not just one, but in spite of her external appearance, there was something about the old LST that caught the eye. Something like "I don't care what you think, I've been there, done it, and survived." And on top of that the crew was older and just as salty. I honestly didn't know what to expect. Neither did the Pilot who brought her in. But straight away was the warm Bluejacket grin and "hey, the Navy's here!", and "sir, do you want a cup of coffee?", and suddenly I just knew at that exact moment in time that this ship and crew were going home, come hell or high water. One of the "Bluejackets" was Jack Carter -- wearing dungarees and about as unassuming as you can be. I had absolutely no idea that he was the XO. But over the days that followed, I came to know Jack well enough to mourn his loss as a rock-solid American. He will also be missed by his British friends here, Lieutenant Colonel David Arthur, Royal Artillery, his wife Jenny, and the Wardroom of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary BAYLEAF, not to mention his friends at the Clipper in Irish Town. Jack was an Officer and a gentleman of the old school. I'm damned proud that our Navy has Jack Carter woven into its fabric. God Bless, Jack. Fair winds on your last voyage. Commander
Chris Melhuish, US Navy
Dear Jean and Family, Although no words of sympathy can ease the loss you bear, may you find some comfort in the thought that others care. I have known Jack for several years, working with him on radio club and computer projects. Jack was always ready to go the extra mile to make sure of the project's success. Some people are remembered because of physical things, Jack will be remembered because of how he conducted his life. Always supportive, low key and considerate of other people's feelings. Herb Stark I am indeed sorry to hear about Jack. He made for quite a catch on the LST 325. And I know it was much better a voyage this time around then when he would have been on it during WW II. Please pass on our condolences to his wife and children for me it was sure great to work him on the radio. 73 Glen D Bowden W�RXR From: "J. Ellis" [email protected] Subject: KC6WYX Very sorry to hear about Jack Carter. I worked him on his voyage. 73, John
Ellis, NP2B - ARRL VI section manager I was
very sorry to hear about Jack, KC6WYX becoming a silent key. I had just
talked to him on his way across the Atlantic and in fact sent him a copy
of the story in the Boston Globe along with my QSL. I had another segment
from the Globe ready when I heard from him, but alas, I never did. 73, Joe, W1JR We're very sorry to hear about Jack Carter. He certainly logged a great accomplishment in helping to pilot the LST to the US. Please express our condolences to his family members and friends. 73 Rick N1RL Rick Lindquist, N1RL
Sad to hear about Jack Hello to the members of Palos Verdes Amateur Radio Club: I was saddened to hear about Jack Carter's (KC6WYX) passing. I only spoke to Jack once that I know of and this was during his voyage home aboard LST-325. What I remember was a night of intense QRM most of which was intentional but Jack stayed with each contact including myself until all information was passed usually including a short chat. Many hams under those conditions would have gave up on operating long before I got on the air let alone stay with me until our QSO was done. I will remember this. Sadly I procrastinated on sending my QSL card until near the day of his passing and I only just heard about it from the ARRL Letter that arrived last Friday. I was only able to e-mail today as my ISP has been down most of the weekend. I am glad that Jack was able to participate in the voyage and contribute to the preservation of history, he sounded very excited about the endeavor. My log book has one more memorable entry with WW2LST. 73 de Paul Davidson Amateur Radio Station, VE3UUM My Remembrances: I don�t know when I met first Jack � probably 10 years ago. Two remembrances or thoughts linger in my mind � one time was when Jack was asked �why was he doing such and such� -- his answer was simply -- � I want to give something back�. And this he did -- by teaching classes, by his recent journey, by always helping when asked. I think these are the things we should take as an inspiration. Second � �Cape Diem� --- he seized the day -- he went out and did some things he believed in and wanted to do, hard as it was at times, but it was things he enjoyed. After his diagnosis I particularly thought of him as I expected to help him along his treatment path. That was not to be. Shortly after his death, while thinking of Jack, I dropped my Bible on a table and it flopped open to Ecclesiastes Chapter 3. This is one you all know in some form � the words go -- �To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, a time to die; ����a time to cry; a time to laugh: a time to grieve Why was that the time for Jack? Why has it not been my time? And for you? I only have one answer � Jack�s mission and purpose was done, his is complete. Our missions are not complete. I pray we will complete ours, whatever it may be, as well as Jack did his. One final thought ---- Later on in the same bible chapter -- Chapter 3 �- in Verse 12 there are these words � �...there is nothing better for a man than to be happy and to enjoy himself as long as he can�� If you think this has been a time to cry or grieve for Jack, so be it. But let us also remember that he was happy and enjoyed the things he did but it was his time. All of us will miss him, but we are all the better that we knew him. Herb Clarkson KM6DD
To Jeanne and Family, THOSE OF US IN SOUTH CAROLINA WHO TRACKED WW2LST/MM ON ITS VOYAGE BACK TO AMERICA, ARE SADDENED TO LEARN OF THE PASSING OF JACK CARTER, KC6WYX. JACK GOT TO LIVE LIFE TO ITS FULLNESS. WE ARE VERY HAPPY THAT HE COMPLETED HIS "FINAL" MISSION. JACK WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED BY HIS FELLOW HAMS. 73 de AC4XM ROBERT LANDRETH QST QST QST - Some have asked the question, �Why did Jack Carter have to leave us so quickly?� This is my explanation of why that had to be so. On his recent trip bringing the LST 325 from Greece to Mobile, Jack had many, many contacts with many, many hams. In fact, whenever he had the opportunity to be on the air, hams were lined up waiting to QSO with the voice of the LST 325. It just so happened that God was listening in on the different bands during those contacts and observed how much fun Jack was having. He concluded that He too wanted to partake in the enjoyment. But, alas there was a hang up---even for God. He needed an FCC license to talk and had to pass an exam to do so. Even though He could not understand why He needed a license, it was His decision to follow the rules. After all, how would it look God had considered getting His technician license early last year after using third party traffic and enjoying it so much. However, when He found out there were 924 questions in the pool, and two exams, He decided that was just too much. Some changes would have to be made. And indeed they were. In April 2000, we were all amazed to learn that many questions had been deleted from the pool and now there were only 384. Instead of two exams there would be only one. That would certainly be easier to handle. Code had not been a requirement for a few years so that was a blessing. Even if He got the top license He would now need only five words a minute. What great changes for everyone! God was really getting excited. He wondered if He should ask for a vanity call but decided that would not be appropriate. He already had a great antenna system with no height restrictions, like some of us. Wow, He could QSO with anyone, anywhere. He did not need to operate QRP as He had no TV interference problems. Some subjects like ionosphere and propagation He understood---after all He did create them. No problem with those subjects. However, He was really hung up on some of the 102 questions on Rules and Regulations. So after much thought, He knew just what He had to do. Since it was necessary to pass the infamous FCC exam, He needed someone to teach Him some of the question pool material. He also knew that Jack loved to teach. Better get to work on this project immediately while the sunspot cycle is at the maximum. And so it was His plan to call Jack to be by His side. God could wait no longer to become a ham. Jack would soon be back from his great adventure on the LST and his time was drawing near. He would not have the opportunity to spend any more special moments with his family and friends because---God needed him. And so it was on February 20, 2001, Jack was called to be with the Lord. And although KC6WXY is now a silent key, he is still enjoying teaching---with a heavenly student---on a different level---in a new QTH. KF6EXV Dodie Clarkson A Tribute To Jack Carter, CDR, United States Navy Retired Hello Jack, I know you can hear me, just want you to know how much you are appreciated and how very proud we are of you. You served well and far beyond. Your desire to make the trip on LST-325 was highly admirable, The lord had granted your very last wish, that you sail on the high seas once again, to command this great historical ship and not only to restore her, but to return her to the United States where she belongs. She will live on as not a memorial, but to the great cause she fought for, she will stand for Freedom, Liberty and Peace. LST-325 carried you and other heroes to their destiny, the cause you fought for the reasons we are all here today. That great cause is our Freedom that we all enjoy, however some may take their freedom lightly, Freedom Liberty and Peace is very fragile, It is up to Us Veterans, of Korea, Vietnam, Panama, Somalia, Granada, Bosnia, Kosovo and Desert storm , our Active duty Personnel and the National Guards, and Reserves from all our states, that your cause will not go un answered. Yes Jack, you have done your best, "I would have been Honored to have served under your Command" It is now time for you to rest, let us carry on the work you have fought so bravely for. I commend you and the Crew of LST-325. Rest In Peace my Brother,
I did not know Jack Carter but I followed the voyage of the LST-325 and read the logs as they were posted. My condolences to Jack's family and his brothers who were on this historical voyage. Rest in peace, Jack. God bless all of you who helped bring home the LST-325 Memorial Ship. Betty Davis To Our Dearest Best American Friend - Jack Carter We can not even believe that you had gone away from us, in our image, you are a so nice, healthy American retired old man. Last March you took part in the radio competition in Shanghai, the whole day you helped students to win. Do you feel tired? You totally do not understand what is the word of "tired", you put yourself away and only considering of others. You told us you would bring the memorial ship from Greece to US, it is your honored and now you had fulfilled your dream. You can now have a very good rest with the God, for us you are just sleeping there in a peaceful and calmful place, and you live in our heart always and forever. I will teach my little son "Qingqing" to be a good man as you hope. Maybe someday when my son grows up, he has a chance to study or visit US, I will ask him to visit the place where you are sleeping now, wait until someday the dream can be fulfilled. Although we are not lucky enough to see you again in Shanghai, I will see you in the heaven at someday, at someplace. I know you would like very much to hear that I call my lovely little son English name "Jack", as if you are still alive, forever alive��. The sentence of "when the thing is lost, then we know the precious". Our American Jack, we now understand how much preciousness you are for us, how much love you had showed to us. We love you forever - From Chinese people, love is the highest way we can express to you. Be calmful and peaceful with you always All of our love Jie Li and "Small
Jack" Dear Jack, Thank you for having been a good friend, a role model, and for having been in my life. We cannot forget what we love, and we'll always remember you. I see your face and hear your voice and laughter so easily in my mind. Your gentle strength and quiet conviction are your calling cards and I truly admire you and plan to see you again someday. Maybe then we will have more time to discuss your pie in the sky idea. With all my love, Ted Vegvari To Jack's Family, I am from Mobile and I'm very sorry to hear about the death of Jack. I didn't know him but I admired all the sailors who brought the LST from Athens to Mobile. I was there when it came into port. I am not a sailor but I can understand the heroism that was involved in bringing the ship here. I was an infantryman in Korea with the 461st Infantry Battalion, Heavy Mortor during the war. I sailed on a troop ship from Seattle to Yokohama and from Sasebo to Pusan, so I have a little experience at sea, although I was a passenger rather than an operator. The city of Mobile is proud of all the sailors who brought the ship here and we are looking forward to you return later this year for the convention. It is my hope that the ship's home will be Mobile. We will never forget the brave men who made this journey despite the warning from the experts that it couldn't be done. That generation could do anything it wanted to do. Welcome to Mobile again later this year for your convention. |