So long, Don...
We were classmates at Annapolis though not acquainted then. But at Submarine School in '56 we became friends. As bachelors we did the usual including organizing a 'snake ranch' nearby.
Then we ended up on submarines in San Diego and briefly shared another bachelor place. You moved to the infamous "601 First St" in Coronado which housed a rowdy brew of bachelor aviators and submariners. There you seemed to be in the middle of every mischievous scheme. Memorable and continuing parties there...
We both had red sports cars and even bought an airplane together with Chief Sonarman Ace Eiland. We did not get to fly it very much as you wrecked in an onion field somewhere east of San Diego. All you got was a bump on the head so it all ended well. But it was a sweet flying Piper Cub... We sold the remains to a guy who wanted to rebuild
By the end of the 50's our Navy careers had begun to diverge. You qualified on Redfish (SS 395) and I was assigned to the Navy's new Bathyscaph Trieste program. I think the last time we met was in '61.
Don, you were the quintessential bachelor and lived the role to its fullest. It's been a half century since we last shared a drink and sea stories (some of which were true). I am just sorry we never had the opportunity to do it again.
Peace my friend, you are remembered. With smiles...

Message from Nick Nichols

December 8, 2015 10:16 PM

To the Forbes Family,

On behalf of the Charleston Base SUBVETS and Swamp Fox Chapter SUBVETS WWII, I offer you our sincere condolences on Don’s passing. We grieve with you on the loss of your loved one and all SUBVETS and their families have your family in our thoughts and prayers. There is no expiration date on the back of our dolphins and Don will always be remembered as a “Brother of the Phin” and a great Patriot.

CDR(SS) Donald Lee Forbes
US Navy Submarine Veteran Retired
Now on Eternal Patrol
Sailor Rest Your Oar
Your Shipmates Have The Watch

Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate

Charleston Base Submarine Veterans
Nick Nichols, Base Chaplain

Message from Ginger

December 7, 2015 12:21 PM

My sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Don. The loss of our dear loved ones can be very difficult and distressing to cope with. It has helped myself and others when we remember that they now safely rest in the loving memory of our Grand Creator,waiting for the fulfillment of His promised purpose. . Also, may your own good and loving memories of Don help to soothe your hearts. Sincerely
( Revelation 21 : 3-5; Acts 24 : 15; Psalms 37 : 11 ).

Message from Ed Tipshus

December 8, 2015 2:45 PM

We spent 4 years at USNA in the Second Company as classmates. Don was laid back and did not let the rigid regimentation and cause him any concern. We met one more time at an early reunion, and then no more. He recently emailed me to get info on getting another USNA Class ring, and he gave me more info on his experience on the accidental deep dive of his submarine, which easily could have been his last, but through his direction, was not. Good classmate, good Naval Officer, and good man.
RIP Don. Toujours Fidele - Semper Fidelis