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Walter Dietzen Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Walter Dietzen
Allie Braswell, Jr., Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army
March 9, 2023
I was a student Admiral Dietzen while attending BOOST in 1987. He was an awesome and inspiring instructor. I fondly remember his "Boilerplate" mathematics drills, and I credit him with my ability to still do the math in my head. I truly appreciated his encouragement and belief in the BOOST program. A true Officer and a Gentlemen.
Mike Vargas MD
August 20, 2022
I attended La Jolla High school. Admiral Dietzen would volunteer his time, during the evenings, tutoring Math. I would always enjoy listening to his stories, then he would try to move the conversation back to the Math. One day I told him about an opportunity, where I had seen a teachers assistant job posting. He proceeded to tell me it´s never good to wait and handed me some change to use on the pay phone ASAP. Using his 35 cents I called the posting, got hired and that was my first Job. Admiral Dietzen was a wonderful person. I was saddened to know of his passing and would have loved to share some stories of triumphs with him.
Joseph Euton
October 9, 2020
I was one of Admiral "Buck" Dietzen's Navy BOOST students graduating in 1986. Admiral Dietzen spent his lunches working with me in his math class!! He was a great man and let a memorable impression on everyone!! He is remembered....
William Koen
November 22, 2005
Condolences to the family of "Buck"
Dietzen. I served with him on the Commissioning Crew of the Woodrow Wilson and he was one of the finest C.O.'s and recruiting Officers for the Nuclear Program, the Navy had.
MMCS/SS William T. Koen
Richard E Dietzen
November 20, 2005
As Buck's oldest nephew in Chattanooga, Tennessee, during his Naval career, I and the rest of the family looked forward to the home visits of our 6'4" square-jawed military hero. He was always willing to take some time to answer ( when not prohibited by military secrecy) my questions and to spin a yarn or two when pestered by my juvenile self. Later when I had moved to California for a time he and his wife were very kind to my family and I and I always enjoyed hearing his kind, booming voice on the phone. I recall a good dove hunt with him at the NAS El Centro area, by which he reciprocated the many hunts when he was home for the holidays in Tennessee. He stood his final watch in San Diego over his wife Ann, during her terminal illness, no doubt placing duty over personal health. His character has always been an inspiration to his family.
Buck was always modest about his career and position and after reviewing the comments from his fellow boatmates I can see that they shared my admiration for the man. The comments from all over the States are much appreciated by his family from Tennessee. Thanks to all of you for serving your country with Buck in a time of cold war. To Sharon, Nick, and their families, our love and sympathy.
Richard E. (Dick) Dietzen,M.D.
T Michael Bircumshaw
November 17, 2005
I imagine that I am merely one of many who could write a book about what Buck Dietzen meant (and still means) to me. No one has intentionally or un-intentionally ever had more influence on my life than Buck. Aboard Scamp SSN-588 in 1961 we began as antagonists over a miserable piece of equipment known as the MK 1 MOD 0 Sperry SINS (navigation gear). I was the tech, he was the Skipper.
I was vindicated when the SINS equipment refused to cross the 180th meridian on our first patrol. Buck got even by sending me to Nuke School (without asking me). I got even by passing the course and becoming a Reactor Technician. In the last five years Buck and I spoke by phone about once a week, sometimes I called him, sometimes he called me. We talked about it all. There is so much more, but the bottomline is that Buck is the absolute "salt of the earth". One of the most genuine, caring, honest, and loyal people I have ever known. It is with great joy that I knew him and I am forever honored to have had one of my true heroes as a close personal friend. I could not care more about Buck if he were of my own flesh and blood. I will truly miss him.
Jim Byrum
November 13, 2005
To the greatest skipper ever commanded a vessel... was such a pleasure to serve with him.. god speed n smooth sailing forever..
Kermit Beaver
November 3, 2005
Captain Dietzen was a great skipper and shipmate. I served with him on SSBN624.We are going to miss him at our reunions.My condolences to his family.
Carl Swann
November 3, 2005
Please accept my condolence. Captain Buck was the reason for me going into The Submarine Force. Captain Dietzen was also responsible for me leaving the Force. He recommended me for The Warrant Officer Program,and I passed. I was on The Gold Commissioning Crew. We made two safe patrols together. The Captain will be missed.
Sam Rayburn, ETC(SS)
November 3, 2005
Capt. Buck was the standard I compared all other skippers and senior managers to since I served aboard the Woody Woo . I have so far and probly never will find any other leader that can supersead Capt. Buck. Thanks Capt. Buck. To his family, rest assured that Buck is now deservingly serving under the leadership of the Greatest Captain.
Melvin Slack
November 3, 2005
Great Skipper Well liked by all who served under him .
Robert Stentz,SS, LCdr, USN(Ret.)
November 3, 2005
The loss of this man is a loss to everyone who knew him and to all whom he touched. I was on WW(Gold) commissioning crew and he made my years onboard a pleasure. He helped me through NESEP selection and on to a commission. I have always said that he was the only person for whom I have ever worked that I would always be at his call, no matter where I could be. Imposing, kind, gentle are just a few of the words that I could use to describe him. He will be missed.
Mike Bartlett
November 3, 2005
I served with Captain Dietzen during commissioning and several Gold Crew patrols. "Buck" was an exemplary leader of men who made the concept of deterence a sucess for the free nations of the world.
May God Bless Captain Buck and his family.
Mike Bartlett, EMCM(SS) USN Ret.
Ann Bernzen
November 3, 2005
Walter Nicholas Dietzen, my "Grandpa Buck". So many great memories. It is wonderful to hear how he touched so many lives in the US. Navy. He was born a selfless man and he passed as a selfless man. He lived his life with honor and integrity. When he passed, it was a shock to us all, we were unaware that he was keeping his own health issues to himself so that he could care for his wife, my grandma, as she struggled with cancer. He was a huge presence in our family and now I believe he is sailing with angels.
David Watson LT. SC. USN RET.
November 3, 2005
It was an honor to serve with and recieve my Dolphins from ADM Dietzen aboard the Uss Woodrow Wilson (Gold), May God Bless him and his family.
Brad Gooden
November 3, 2005
USS Woodrow Wilson SSBN Gold 69-73
I did not know Admiral Dietzen but I had the pleasure of meeting him at one of the USS Woodrow Wilson reunions. My condolences to his family.
Tom Mozingo
November 3, 2005
I served with Admiral Dietzen on the USS Woodrow Wilson (Gold). His dedication and professionalism was my inspiration to try to be the best I could be. His support of my goals had an everlasting, profound impact on my family and myself for 40 years. He was the best skipper and the finest man I have ever had the honor to know. I loved him like a father; like a brother. My condolences to his family.
Capt. K.Thomas Hoepfner (USN, Ret)
November 3, 2005
I regret I could not be present at the service, but I send my most sincere regrets for your loss. I never met nor did I ever know Adm Dietzen personally, but as a former Engineer Officer and later Commanding Officer of Woodrow Wilson, I am well aware of his contribution to the his ship, the Submarine Force and the nation. I and his many shipmates wish him a final fair winds and a calm sea.
Bob "Beetle" Bailey
November 3, 2005
I was on the commissioning crew of the 624. I was on the Blue Crew.
I did not get to know Adm. Buck until our reunions.
Once you met him he never forgot your name. He was very very much a gentleman and a sailors sailor. He will be greatly missed by the submarine community.
Sailor rest your oars.
Joseph Crissinger
November 3, 2005
I had the honor and privilege to serve under Captain “Buck” on USS Woodrow Wilson SSBN624 during new construction, was on the commissioning crew, and made 2 patrols with him. During up-fitting, I charged into the missile control center as I usually did and nearly tripped over Captain “Buck” who was sitting on the floor staring up at the blinking colored lights on the geoballistic computer. As I came to a screeching halt, he looked at me and said, “Crissinger, what do all those blinking lights mean? I am sure that he knew what the blinking lights meant He was just checking to see if I knew too. That was his way. I believe that Admiral Deitzen was the tallest man on the boat, and I recall following him down passageways and we’d both have our head tilted slightly to avoid hitting something in the overhead.
Joseph L. (Cris) Crissinger, FTB1(SS)
Chuck Troyon
November 2, 2005
Admiral Dietzen approved my request to attend Submarine School back in 1957, when he was then a LCDR. I needed a waiver on my eyesight to attend, which he approved. I have always been appreciative of this and completed a very rewarding Naval career as a Submariner.
May God hold "Buck" in the palm of His hand throughout eternity.
Frank Herrold
November 1, 2005
I was privileged to be a member of the "Wilson" commissioning crew and make the first two patrols with Cdr. Dietzen. After declining to extend my enlistment to satisfy BUPERS requirement to attend "Launcher school", "Buck" came to me, knowing that I had to leave the boat, and asked if there was some particular duty that I'd like while finishing my enlistment. I told him "I'd really like to serve on a conventional boat"....next thing I knew I had Orders to the USS Tusk SS-426. I knew "Buck" was special simply because he treated everyone he served with specially.
Frank M. Herrold
Fred Kellie
October 31, 2005
I proudly served under Captain Buck Dietzen from 1963-1966 on the Woodrow Wilson SSBN 624 (Gold Crew). He was the only commander I had while in the Navy that I would not have hesitated to go into a war situation with. My condolences to his family.
Steven Henderson
October 30, 2005
Although I did not have the honor of serving under such a fine man, I feel the pain of every shipmate who was directly associated with one of the finest sailors afloat. Rest your oars shipmate!
Harry Beckstead MMCM(SS) Ret.
October 30, 2005
The only true 4 stripper nuclear submarine captain I ever served under during my naval career. He probably don't remember me but I remember him.
Beak Warner
October 30, 2005
Although I did not serve with Buck on active duty, I had the pleasure of knowing him before I retired in 1983. Buck came to my retirement ceremony and I felt a sense of pride at having an Admiral (though he never made much ado about being one) in the audience. My friendship with him grew after I started work post retirement. Buck was our office manager (General Physics Corp) in San Diego. He always gave good advice and was just plain fun to be around. Buck was instrumental in my son Howard's admission into the US Naval Academy and he provided some background help during the infamous plebe year. Buck was indeed a true gentleman and a fine submarine officer. I consider myself honored to have known him.
Clyde Dunsing
October 30, 2005
As a member or the Woodrow Wilson building and commissioning crew I was fortunate to have served with then Commander Dietzen. He was a "sailors CO" Well liked by all and will be sorely missed by all. God Bless.
Bill Richards ETCS(SS) Ret.
October 30, 2005
I served under Cdr. and later Capt. Dietzen onboard the USS Woodrow Wilson SSBN-624 Gold for four patrols in 1965 & 1966. He was by far the finest CO in my Navy career and a great gentleman.
He will be missed by all who knew him. Sailor rest your oar.
Ed & Scyrina Moore
October 30, 2005
I served with Buck's as his XO on Woodrow Wilson, aand later in the pentagon. He was not only extremely proficient, an artist on the periscope, but demanded high standards, and was a people person who supported his crewmembers without reservation. He continued to be a friend and supporter throughout my career and beyond. We will continue to remember him with the highest admiration and respect,
Dick Bivin
October 30, 2005
Buck and I served on Baya. He was XO. He was a person whom I admired greatly. Joan and I saw him too infrequently after we retired. Joan and I sent our deepest sympathy to Ann and their family
Jim Van Metre
October 30, 2005
I served with Buck at the Pentagon during the most challenging times of the Cold War. He worked hard, played fair and led us magnificently. We had a small staff to run a big submarine force. The nation has lost a fine officer who served his county so well.
Ed Traylor
October 30, 2005
I had the honor of qualifying on the WW Gold. He was a true Naval Officer. Although the boats carried no signal flags, I believe this says it all.
"Bravo Zulu" Capt. "Buck"
Bobby Jones
October 29, 2005
I went aboard the Woodrow Wilson as a Missle Technician 3rd Class right after she left the shipyard. Captain Dietzen was my first skipper and one under whom I would have gladly served at any time and under any conditions. He was the kind of man you instinctively trusted. He will me missed!
Kirk Wood
October 29, 2005
I served under then Capt. Buck, as we of the crew called him, in 65 - 68 on the Woodrow Wilson. It is a popular thing to say that a military commander was one who's men would follow him anywhere, but rarely is that really true. I was fortunate enough to have served under such a leader in Capt. Buck. I was just a 23 year old second class petty officer, but this man left a mark on me that will be with me as long as I live. It was my privilage to have been a member of "Buck's crew."
Dave Thomas
October 29, 2005
Buck Dietzen had long since departed the Woodrow Wilson when I came aboard, but I remember well the many stories that were told about him. The words I remember that described Buck in those tales are "fair", "dedicated", "most knowledgeable", "engaging", and "a crews captain". I finally got to meet Buck, the man, at our 2001 reunion in Florida. It was all true! Ruthann and I send our sincere condolences to the family of RAdm Dietzen. Ride on in sweet dreams Buck.
Robert Blount
October 28, 2005
Buck was the prototype of submarine officers who inspired others to "volunteer" to serve with a great band of brothers!
Royce Zook
October 28, 2005
RAdm Dietzen was Commander Dietzen when I reported aboard the USS Woodrow Wilson. He and Commander Mitchell were gathering crews and preparing for the launch and Commissioning of the boat out of Mare Island, CA. I really respected Commander Dietzen and his leadership although I went to the Blue Crew and he was the Gold Crew Captain. He was a good man and a great Naval leader and will be missed. God Bless his family and friends left behind.
Steve Grant
October 28, 2005
As the teacher librarian at La Jolla High School since 1992, I knew Buck well. Already retired, for many years he was in the library for hours every week voluntarily tutoring students, and he annually donated money to the library. I admired him greatly. We are all a poorer for his absence.
Brad Poole
October 28, 2005
"Leadership" Personified.
B. C. POOLE
RADM, USNR (Ret)
USS Woodrow Wilson, SSBN 624(B)
PATRICK HANNIFIN
October 28, 2005
Buck and I were classmates at the Academy and were good friends and mutual admirers for over 60 years. I deeply regret that I was not here to attend the service and to offer my condolences and prayers to Sharon and Nick. I will miss him very much.
Susie Struhar
October 28, 2005
I have known Buck since the early 90's when he came on board La Jolla High School as a substitute teacher and volunteer. Not many people know this, but the salary he received for subbing was donated back to the school. The students loved him, he always had some interesting stories to tell, and he treated everyone he knew with a great deal of respect. I can still see Buck sitting in the library, after school, tutoring our students in math. They knew they could depend on him, no matter what was happening in his personal life. And, now we have to say good bye to a true gentleman. I will miss him a lot, but what a comfort that he is finally home. My prayers and sympathy to Buck's family. You were so blessed to have him in your life. Susie Struhar, Administrative Assistant, La Jolla High School
Charles Bishop
October 27, 2005
Buck Dietzen was Executive Officer of BAYA(AGSS-318) when I took command in mid-1953. We had a great year together
providing a platform for scientific research
which supported the growth in our Navy's capabilities in undersea warfare. Buck had the job of figuring out how best to meet the often strange requirements of the scientists
which usually led to some humorous comments, but effective results. He was
a fine shipmate and a life-long friend. Alnora
and I send our love and condolence to Ann and the family. Charles B. Bishop, CAPT USN Ret
Bob Thomas
October 27, 2005
I first met Buck when he was skipper of SCAMP and I was skipper of REMORA in San Diego in 1960. A few years later we were together in Charleston when he was skipper of WOODROW WILSON and I was XO of a sub tender. In our retirement years, I would see Buck every few months at the Submarine League lunches in San Diego. He was a good friend that I will miss very much. It was an impressive ceremony today at Fort Rosecrans. It was nice to meet Buck's two brothers and his nephew, but not under these circumstances. Nancy and I offer our condolences to all of the Dietzen family.
Bob Thomas Captain, USN (Ret)
Gary Trammell
October 27, 2005
While assigned to the USS Woodrow Wilson, I knew then CDR. Dietzen as the Gold Crew skipper. I was assigned to the Blue Crew under then CDR. C. N. Mitchell. I remember one particular time when the submarine was changeing crews and CDR. Dietzen came aboard and greeted CDR. Mitchell by saying "Hello Cleo". Buck and Dean were always competeing with each other, and by addressing Dean as "Cleo" he was one-up on Dean. Of course Dean had a good comeback. It was uplifting to see two such great submarine skippers enjoying life while being under the enormus pressures required of being a nuclear submarine captain. RAdm. Mitchell,USN-Ret. has been on eternal patrol for quite sometime. As I missed RAdm. Mitchell I will also miss RAdm. Dietzen. Two great men that inspired me like no others. May God bless the Dietzen family.
LTjg Gary M. Trammell, USN-Ret.
Jimmy Kimbrell
October 27, 2005
Capt. Dietzen was my skipper of (G) crew of USS Woodrow Wilson. Was one of the Greatest.. Bette and I wish the family the best. I'm sure Buck has found a safe harbor.
Tommy Gardner
October 27, 2005
Admiral Dietzen approached me at my High School graduation from McCallie School in Chattanooga in 1972. He noticed that I had been accepted to the U. S. Naval Academy. I was priviledged to have served in the Submarine Force and work in Deep Submergence during my career in the Navy. When some of the older officers would find out I was from Chattanooga, they would ask if I knew Buck Dietzen. He was admired and respected throughout the Navy. I was proud to say I knew him.
Robert Miller, ETCS(SS) Ret.
October 27, 2005
I met the Admiral once at a USSVI Scamp Base Christmas dinner. He was very easy to talk to about submarines and shared my love of submarines and all that they encompassed. I heard many stories about him from T. Michael Bircumshaw and C. Dale Barkely who both feel fe was the best skipper they ever sailed with. I send my warmest regards to all of his family. I'm sure they will miss him dearly. From all I can gather, he was one of the "good ones".
Ken Adam, CPO, USN Ret.
October 27, 2005
I first met (then) CDR "Buck" Dietzen prior to the USS Woodrow Wilson being launched. Since he was Gold Crew Skipper and I was Blue Crew Sonarman, I didn't get to associate much with him then. But the last 20 years of WW reunions were different and we became good friends. Buck never would accept any special treatment, only wanted to be just one of the guys. So long Shipmate, we will miss you, especially at the next reunion. Say "Hi" to the Big Bos'n in the sky for me.
L.W.T. "Tony" Waller
October 27, 2005
I am sorry that I didn't get to know "Buck" Dietzen better. He wa a great guy, low key, and possessed a fine sense of humor. I am sure he always added purpose and class to all of his undertakings. He will be missed by all who knew him.
L.W.T. "Tony" Waller
A Marine Admirer
Dick Ackley
October 27, 2005
When I was Intel officer at COMSUBPAC, Buck invited my wife Joan and me for dinner on Scamp. He proceeded tell her about the fly traped in the nuclear reactor that had grown to the size of a hawk. He had her looking through the sight glass for the fly for sometime before admitting it was all a joke.
After I retired, I was Director of a Graduate Program in National Security Policy at Calif. State Univ., San Bernardino, Ca. consisting, in the most part, of Air Force fighter pilots. Buck was kind enough to be a guest lecturer on many occasions. He was an excellent speaker who made a fine impression to my graduate students of a first rate flag officer.
John Almon
October 27, 2005
I met Admiral Dietzen once in the pentagon after he commanded SCAMP and I was serving as a JO on SCAMP under John Drain. Even in that short meeting he had the ability to impress and convince a LTJG he was a valued member of the submarine force. Thanks.
John Almon Capt, USN(Ret)
Robert Tompkins
October 27, 2005
I was serving aboard USS Becuna (SS319)as an EN2 in 1959, when at the time LCDR Dietzen came aboard in an effort to get propulsion plant people to volunteer for Nuclear Power School. I was a little hesitant at the time, as I had quit High School, and wasn't sure if I could handle the courses. I finally decided to give it a try, and it was probably one of the best decisions I ever made in my Naval career. I will always remember Walt Dietzen for talking me into the Program.
God Bless You Walt.
Robert Tompkins CWO3/USN Retired.
Mike Covell
October 27, 2005
Buck was my first submarine CO on Woodrow Wilson (G), led me to earn my Dolphins, and inspired me to make the Navy a career. His skill as a submariner and leader served him and his compatriots well throughout his career. Although we lived on opposites side of the country, he and Anne were faithful friends over the past 40 years. May God bless Buck and his family.
John Drain
October 27, 2005
Admiral Dietzen set high standards of performance and leadership for those of us who followed him as Commanding Officer, USS SCAMP.
Alan Ferdinandsen
October 26, 2005
I served on board USS Scamp (SSN 588) with Captain Dietzen from January 1961 through his change of command. Scamp, her wardroom and crew bring back fond memories and experiences. I was proud to serve on board.
Joseph Meyer
October 26, 2005
In 1948, I was a student in Submarine School in New London. I along with seven others rode the submarine RATON in which Buck was serving as a LT(jg). We were there to learn how to dive and surface a submarine. At that time, student submariners, along with midshipmen, were considered to be the lowest form of animal life. Not so with Buck. He went out of his way to make us feel at home in RATON. Later, I admired Buck's elan when he was skipper of CUBERA and SCAMP. Buck was right up there with the likes of Shannon Cramer, Bob Long and Lefty Goulet. I always looked forward to seeing Buck at submarine parties and receptions. I deeply regret that those were too infrequent. Sidney joins me in expressing our sorrow at the loss of this fine naval officer. Anne, we haven't see each other for too many years, but please know that we pray that God will give you the strength to accept the unacceptable. We hope your son in New Orleans is safe. Joe and Sidney
Sanford Levey
October 26, 2005
I was a Junior Officer when he was CO of the USS Cubera, and have many fond memories, as well as some wonderful sea stories of the officer we used to call "Jack Armstrong".
Sandy Levey, Capt., USN (Ret)
C.Dale Barkley
October 26, 2005
Admiral Dietzen was the Commanding officer I admired most.
I was his Chief of the Boat on Scamp. We will all miss him.
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