A memory I'll never forget.  On the USS Manley DD940, 1967.  Dave was Executive Officer, I was a Ltjg.  Dave approached me near the end of the day and said he talked to Washington about me, and I could either go to Department Head School in Newport or Post Graduate School in Monterey California.  I thought to my self if I told him I wanted to get out of the Navy, he'd call me into his stateroom talk to me about staying in and I wouldn't get to leave the ship on time.  So I blurted out Monterey and the rest is history.
Not much of a condolence, just a memory of someone I'll never forget and why.

Deeply saddened to learn of the XO’s passing. I have always been extremely grateful to him for canceling my transfer orders so that I could remain on Manley for her second trip to the gunline. I have told this story many times.

Fair winds and following seas, Sir... and healing for your family.

Fair winds and calm seas to my XO, USS Manley DD940. My condolences to the family.
John Guillote RD2.  August 1966 - July 1968

XO gave me good guidance during the time we shared on Manley.  

As Firecontrol Technician 3rd/2nd, it was my honor and privilege and honor to serve in USS Manley (DD 940) from 1966 to 1968 and under XO Rogers during the ship's first deployment to Vietnam 1966/1967. He and Captain were quite the team, guiding the ship through some of the worst days of its life. He was an inspiration to me and the rest of the crew. It was XO Rogers who interacted with the crew on a daily basis whether on his rounds during Messing and Berthing Inspection, or overseeing the administrative tasks associated with documenting the lives of over 300 sailors and keeping the ship running  smoothly. It had always been my intention to remain in the Navy and it was exposure to officers of XO Roger's caliber which  went a long way in making that a realty when I retired after 30 years as a Lieutenant Commander. Fair Winds and Following Seas until I once again report to you for duty. 

I was his DCA for that first Vietnam tour. When we were back home  I remember him saying to me I’ve got a good deal for you.  You can either go to department head school in Newport or to Post grad school in Monterey.  I told him Monterey so I wouldn’t have to go to his state room and get a talk about the Navy.  It was close to liberty call.   So 27 years later I retired as a Captain.  Thanks Dave.

XO was a man of dignity and reserve.  He loved the USNavy. He was the Chess Champion of the USS Manley on our Vietnam deployment. All honor to his name.

I served on the Manley DD940 from 62 to 69. You sir were one of the good ones. We sailed some oceans together during your time. Hopefully you are resting in peace, in calm waters. I still have the watch. Maybe we will meet again. So long Sir.

Fair winds and calm seas to my XO, USS Manley DD940. My condolences to the family.
Cleve Reese, BT2 1966-68

My sincerest condolences to Jean and their family. I've thought of you many times through the years and the many fond memories I've carried in my heart of the times the Manley wives gathered at your home. 

Fair winds and following seas, XO. My condolences to you and family, Jean.

We are so sorry we are not physically well enough to have celebrated Dave’s life with you in Virginia. Dave was one of the most delightful people we met over our winters in Tucson. He and Jean quickly became such dear friends. He is already greatly missed. Love and prayers to all of you.              Joan and Wayne 

Dave and John, a lifelong friendship of over 80 years growing up on the same street, getting into all kinds of mischief ( such as workers repairing construction on the street, these boys carefully refilled all holes and next morning watched from afar at the bewilderment of the workers)  attending Duke University together where their fathers were professors, then  after graduation pursuing  separate careers.   Their  friendship continued as both traveled the world Dave marrying Jean from Canada and John marrying Joan from Australia giving them years of speculation on the positives of marrying 'foreigners'. Then their daughters, Carolyn and Beth, and ours, Joanne, Susan, Linda and Helen.  Two families strong. 

The wonderful memories - of going with Dave and Jean to The Taj Majal, Dave coming to Malaysia to go with us to a  formal event  for the Prime Minister, Duke Re Unions, ball games, and  6 years ago being with us on the loss of our Linda,  then just two summers ago spending  time with us during another  medical issue. We have played roles in many chapters of each other's lives.

It's true - to have a friend is to have everything.  And we had everything with Dave and his girls.
Dave, we will always love you and  will never forget what our families shared and how we all grew together.  The Blacks will continue this remarkable friendship with the Rogers - we will make it to the century year mark!

I am sad we are not able to be with you tonight and tomorrow,  Jean, Carolyn and Beth - you are in our hearts, and prayers.
 


Dave was a wonderful and thoughtful boss to work for and always thought of others.  He made sure I was appreciated.  Dave taught me so much in those early years and I will never forget his kindnesses to me.  
May God give him eternal rest.

Marie Neer

OBITUARY

David Taylor Rogers

May 22, 1935 – August 26, 2018

Demaine Funeral Home – Fairfax

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