In November 2008 the Association received an e-mail with two photos attached (see below) from Mr. Dave Sulmonetti, President of the Pronto Pup Co., Inc. of Portland, Oregon. Mr. Sulmonetti's e-mail actually was forwarded to us by shipmate Paul Dunlap (EM-2 1965-68). Paul has a website pertaining to things Little Rock and had initially received the e-mail from Mr. Sulmonetti.

Mr. Sulmonetti's e-mail stated that he "came across these old pictures the other day!"  He goes on to tell us the "Santa" picture has a caption on the back which reads: "Taken at Pronto Pup Christmas party aboard U.S. Little Rock, New York, Dec. 21, 1946. Santa Claus is William Treadwell, Author and editor". And the second photo reads: "Sailor is one of Navy "Hosts" to underprivileged children". Mr. Sulmonetti concludes "I hope these photo's can find a "home" on your web site for the USS Little Rock."

In a subsequent e-mail Mr.Sulmonetti gave us permission to use the photos of the "Pronto Pup Christmas Party" aboard the USS Little Rock. He also said: "..... in the 40's, the inventor and owner of the Pronto Pup Co. at the time, George Boyington, was actively selling "Pronto Pup" Franchises.  I'm guessing that he probably took part in this party partly for publicity along with joining with the folks aboard the USS Little Rock to add to the festivities of the party.  Pronto Pups were new!  There were no "corn dogs" back then.  Pronto Pups were the original "corn dog" - before "corn dog" was even thought of as a name.  At the time of this party, there were Pronto Pup restaurants located throughout the country."