That was a great thing for Dewey to do for that Old Sailor. I was not surprised when I received an email a few weeks ago about it. He went to his grave a happy man.
I was aboard Dewey with my family for the Change of Command of DESRON 21 just last September. We were invited by the incoming Commodore (Old friend and neighbor.) so we flew out for the week. Spent a great time in San Diego and were honored to enjoy a great ceremony then personal tour of the ship. Having served on seven old destroyers myself, I was most impressed by the Dewey and her fine crew.
Dewey's CO is a Mustang (Like me...
) who went unrestricted line. He is the guy in khakis and glasses in the picture. His is an awesome fighting ship with a great crew.
RIP Sir.
ETA: The day I retired and was piped over the side was very moving. My last salute to the ensign took me a while.