tierney_biography

Gerold P. Tierney, ST3(SS)

Jerry Tierney was born in Holyoke, MA. After high school, in October of 1963, he enlisted in the Navy.

When he completed boot camp at Great Lakes, IL, Jerry went straight to Submarine School in New London, CT and graduated in March 1964.

He reported aboard USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) in April 1964 during construction at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock, in Newport News, Virginia as a Seaman. After a stint in the seaman gang, he became a Sonarman striker. He is a plankowner and he completed sea trials, Blue Crew shakedown cruise, and the first 5 Blue crew patrols.

Jerry earned his silver dolphins in November 1965 and was promoted to to Sonarman Third Class in November 1966. His watch stations included those of helmsman, planesman, and of course, sonarman. He was the Qualification Petty Officer for topside and escape trunk.

Jerry departed the JCC in the summer of 1967 and was discharged in August. He began working for the city of Holyoke Gas & Electric Company as a Boiler Control Room Operator and a Gas System Operator.

He attended Holyoke Community College and was a member of the National Association of Power Engineers.

Two years later, in September 1969, he married Carol A. Belisle, the daughter of Clovis and Germaine Belisle.

Jerry and Carol have one daughter, Kelly A. Tierney, who lives in Easthampton, MA.

He retired from the city of Holyoke after 32 years service in 1999.

During his naval service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

He is a charter member of the JCC Veterans Association and a great supporter! He has been a dues paying member since the Association’s founding and he has attended nearly every reunion.

Jerry’s civic interests include the American Legion, Post 224, in Easthampton, MA. He also manages the Legion baseball team.

He also serves as Secretary for The Baystate West Base of United States Submarine Veterans, Inc.