Members of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI), Pocono Base (local chapter) were present at the West End Fair in Gilbert last week and they brought along just one more thing for fairgoers to check out.

That extra attraction was a 17 1/2 foot long model of the WWII submarine USS Barb which was constructed by fellow shipmate Ken Smith of East Stroudsburg.The USS Barb on her 12th and final war patrol of June 8, 1945 landed a party of crew members in Japan itself who blew up a railroad train.This action was notable and unique in that it was the only ground combat operations that actually took place on the Japanese home islands.The USSVI Creed is "To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country".The United States Submarine Veterans Incorporated USSVI was founded in Groton, Connecticut in July 1960 and the organization's membership has been increasing substantially over the past few years and now includes over 13,000 members residing nationwideRegular membership is open to US Navy officers and enlisted men who have qualified in submarines or the 'boats" as they are affectionately called.Those who served in support of submarines and others with an interest in submarines are also accepted as Associate members.The USSVI has a history of association with the Eagle Scouts of America and they recognize the outstanding achievements of the Scouts when they reach the Eagle rank.The new Eagle Scout is presented with a certificate "In Recognition of Outstanding Achievement" from the USSVI during their Eagle Scout Court.The Pocono Base was founded on February 15, 2000 and has held most of its meetings at the Wilson-Fisher American Legion Post in Pocono Pines Pennsylvania.In addition to its fraternity for submariners, Pocono Base is active in many veteran and community affairs including memorial parades, charitable functions, and educational programs.Appearances by USSVI members, such as with the USS Barb model at the West End Fair, not only educate the public, but also help to get their presence known to other submarine vets in the area.Anyone interested in obtaining more information about the United States Submarine Veterans Inc. and the Pocono Base can visit their websites at

www.ussvi.org or

www.poconosubvets.org .