From Staff Reports

AUGUSTA--Alexander Robertson first qualified to work aboard a submarine more than 50 years ago and spent nearly 20 working below the surface.

The Wiscasset native was honored for his service Sunday during a ceremony hosted by the USS Maine Base of the United States Submarine Veterans Incorporated at the American Legion Post 205.

"Congratulations on 50 great years of submarine qualification, Alex," said John Starbird, commander of the USS Maine Base of the USSVI. "A handshake and a round of applause are in order for Alex's accomplishment."

The Holland Club ceremony, which included dignitaries from the state legislature as well as a representative from the office of Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), was highlighted by a presentation by Mary Lee Coe Fowler, author of "Full Fathom Five: A Daughter's Search."

Fowler's book explores the fate and character of her father, Cmdr. James W. "Red" Coe, who was lost on the USS Cisco in 1943, before Fowler was born.

The Holland Club USSVI's Holland Club was established to honor members who have been qualified in Submarines 50 or more years. Robertson, who first qualified in March 1958 onboard the USS Irex, is one of the Maine Base's longest serving members, Starbird said.

Robertson, who was born in Wiscasset in 1933, joined the U.S. Navy in 1951, but he did not earn his submarine qualification until 1957, following a two-year stint as a civilian. Robertson spent much of the next 14 years below the surface, serving onboard the USS Sea Robin (1960-62, 1968-69), Thomas Edison (1962-64) and the Pogy (1969-71) until his retirement in 1971.

Robertson spent some time between 1964 and 1968 on shore as a basic sub school staff member.

Robertson and his wife of 49 years, Audrey, continue to live in Wiscasset where Robertson has been involved in community service, including a stint as a town selectman. Robertson is a life member of the USSVI and the USS Maine Base.