Want to tell sea stories? Now you know these have to be well documented and true and verifiable. Just kidding. Try telling your favorite story about that incident that made you pucker, smile, or grin from ear to ear.
Use this category for story telling and comments on the stories.
September 14, 2006 at 3:32 am |
I was a third crewman in VAH-1 and flying with Cdr. Speigel doing a nav flight. I was taking a nav shot when the pilot said some fuses poped. I reached over to check them when my chute caught the upper hatch handle and I blew it back. We were flying at about 40K and 550 mph as I recall. Everything broke loose. Things got sucked out that was loose and I , not being strapped in was fighting to get into my seat. Cdr. Speigel thought we had a midair collision. The cockpit looked like a blizzard was taking place and Speigel said I was about a foot of being sucked out.
I don’t remember who the B/N was. Does anyone?
Ed Sykes PS. Happened July 1959
October 13, 2006 at 12:19 am |
The B/N probably has had a loss of memory after that one. The closest thing I ever had as a T/C similiar to yours was the pilots front windshield collapsing in and shattering ,but not going completely out at 30000. It really made the carrier approach interesting! Pilot went down low in seat and stayed on instruments all the way to the deck. This time the LSO did it the old way…..by voice. Sid Humphreys VAH II 59-62 CVA-42
November 21, 2006 at 7:58 am |
I remember in HATRON TEN 2 guys whose names elude me but I believe they worked on the flight line. They liked to drive up and down the e-way to Seatle and drink beer. They got tired of having to stop and pee all the time because it cut into their drinking. They had a brilliant idea (at least it was to them) they got an old piss tube from an A-3 and installed in their car(I believe it was a 58 Chevy with a custom chrome chain link steering wheel). Then there was the Latino guy on the flight line who would let out Mexican bean farts quietly then start snickering. Well one day he let one and everyone ran outside. Some of us ran out front, when the others ran out back the wind blew through so did the aroma and we who so foolishly stood by the door almost passed out. “Well” and thats a deep subject thats 2 sea stories. I have more but maybe later see ya.
January 16, 2007 at 5:28 pm |
As I remember they said if an A-3 lost power you had only 7 seconds to bail or nose in with the plane. One day in summer of 69 over by the hanger (heavy 10) they had an A-3 set up with mattresses laid below the trap door. They were timing various crews in the bail out procedure. That was scary, some of them took 30-40 seconds or more. Just another reason I was proud to have others be the plane captain. We had a Luie over the flight line for a time. A young guy, who thought everyone should be a plane captain. I had no desire to be one and he didn’t appreciate it. I was getting reasonable evaluations, when he started doing them for the line they went down very quickly. I hadn’t changed but my evaluations did. I wonder why? I had my own car when Uncle Sam got me and was a good driver but for some reason I never could pass the Navy Driver test. Once for not putting on the seat belt, I had a 59 Chevy in 66 and I don’t remember it having seat belts. So I never learned to put them on! I thought that was unfair, but at least I never had to do duty driver haha. I was in charge of all the flight line equipment after I arrived at Heavy 10 from 123. I arrived at 123 in mid October? From arrival until March 70 I drove all the equipment everywhere except for towing the planes. When a certain gongho 1st class found out I didn’t have a Navy license he made me stop driving. On swing shift I drove stuff anyway. I usually operated the huffer. Swing shift was great, no hassles and Mid-Rats was great. All you could eat eggs toast etc. and left overs but I only ate left overs if the six o’clock meal was a good one. Once it was watery boiled potatoes and boiled hot dogs. Even the lifers complained about that one. See Ya “Wally Myers”
January 21, 2007 at 4:23 am |
Did you know my father – LCDR Allen Karst, pilot in Heavy 10?
February 16, 2007 at 7:08 am |
Yes Adam, I served with your father on the USS Forrestal in 1969-1970. He was the AOIC of the Heavy Ten Det. I don’t remember who his crew was but I flew with LCDR Guisinger, the OIC. We left the States as Heavy Ten Det 59 and returned as VAQ-129 Det 59. Hatron Ten had been decomissioned and recomissioned as VAQ-129 while we were gone.
May 16, 2007 at 12:21 am |
Reading these comments bring back a lot of memories. I was in Heavy 4, when the powers that be decided we should change our name and move to Alameda. As the final days ticked down, and we had no airplanes, they sent us over to VAH 123 (us being the remaining CN’s) to get in our flight time. On one eventful flight, I got my first look at a Boeing 747. I took off with a Training Pilot for a local VFR flight with nothing in particular to do, so I buried my head in the Radar looking for the Ginger Bread Man and anything else of interest. When I raised my head, there was a 747 crossing our 12 o’clock close enough to see the people in the window if there had been any. They were on a test flight out of Everett, (I assume)
The rookie pilot had been practicing IFR, and hadn’t noticed. We did a quick avoidance dive. Needless to say my eyes never dropped back to the Radar the rest of the flight.
May 20, 2007 at 10:37 pm |
To Wally Myers – thanks for the memory jogging. I too, was with Heavy 10 in 68-70 at NAS Whidbey. AE-3 at the time. The jump drill that day may just have been the Det. 19 crews getting ready for the Westpac cruise on the USS Hancock that left in Aug 69 from Alameda.
I have a lot of great memories of Heavy 10, VAH-123, and NAS Whidbey. I was lucky to have my twin brother, Rich, with me, although since his rate was PH, he was TAD to the Photo lab over at the Seaplane Base. I left with Det. 19 in August of 69, and since there was no billet for a PH on the det. he had to stay behind. He later surprised me by getting orders to ship’s company on the Hancock and he joined the ship in January of 70, just after we left Hong Kong on our way back to Yankee Station. We spent four months together on the Hancock before the cruise ended. I was separated in June of 70, and he had to stay with the ship in Alameda until he was separated in August. He was killed in a car accident in Bellingham only three weeks later.
The lousy chow you received at the galley at NAS Whidbey in 69 was because the LTjg. in charge of the galley went over budget, and since I happened to be mess cooking at that time, we had very little food to serve to the personnel for a few days. That wasn’t a fun time to be a mess cook. I did like the cook’s liberty we were on during the few months that my brother and I were mess cooking – 3 on, 2 off, 2 on, 3 off – tough duty. We worked Midrats and since we were from the local area just north of Seattle, we spent a lot of time visiting friends who thought we were “supposed to be in the Navy”.
I have been an aircraft mechanic for almost 40 years now (currently working for Alaska Airlines – 23 yrs), and I have worked on a lot of different aircraft, helicopters, and everything from a Cessna 120 to a 747. I still have a real soft spot for the A-3, though. It was the first “real” aircraft I ever worked on, and I will always remember my days in Heavy 10 working on “the Whale”. I later spent some time back at NAS Whidbey with the Reserves in VP-69 in the late 70’s, but it was a different Navy then from what it had been like in Heavy 10.
A special “hi”to AEC Fred Brown who was my boss on that Westpac cruise in 69-70. His son, Gary and I work together at Alaska Airlines, and another to AE1 Billy Ruth ( William Cornelius Ruth Jr.) who was responsible for teaching me “everything I always wanted to know about being an AE” and also some other stuff too that came in handy in later years. You were a great teacher, Billy, and I hope you are well and still with us.
May 22, 2007 at 7:19 am |
Ron Foster; as I remember I was in det 19. I would have had to go TAD to the ground support shack. When they told me I couldn’t go was so heart broken I laughed all the way back to the barracks. I went on carrier quals to with det 19 Miramar, a fun time. I remember an AE but can’t recall his face or name, you may have been him. Miramar was the only place I ever got wrote up. I got a hair cut chit and actually had to get a haircut even tho I felt I didn’t need one. I remember a guy on the line with us at Miramar named Flynn. Four of us went drinking. On the way back from somewhere in the Miramar area we got lost. A local guy told us the way back, as we went Flynn said it was the other way. I Argued no it’s this way, Flynn, normally a nice quiet guy got mad. The veins in his neck began to bulge, his face got red, I thought his head was going to explode. It was almost scary. I also remember a slightly heavyset guy on det 19 flight line from Philly he had brown curly hair. I signed the guest book my E-Mail address is there. Well See ya Richard former ASH-3
May 22, 2007 at 7:25 am |
P.S. Ron Foster, I was to get out in June but not being on det ” I got the early out in March. As I remember now there was another guy named Myers on det 19 he may have been an AE.
May 28, 2007 at 3:29 pm |
I was in VAH-5 from 1957 to 1960 and was the the third crewan for LCdr Dave Deardolph. I saw he was at the 2007 reunion. Anyone know how I can contact him? Any other Sanford 3rd crewmen out there form that time frame?
May 28, 2007 at 9:51 pm |
I was in VAH 11 from 1959-1962 flying on then Lt. Jerry Knutson’s crew. I started out on Commander Charles Donnaud’s crew and as we left Mayport in February 0f 1961 they put me on Knutson’s crew. Thirty days later Donnaud’s crew was all dead after failing to recover from a loft maneuver off the coast of Libya.
We have just returned from Pensacola and our 2007 reunion. It was really great to see our “old” buddies again.
What about AEC Fred Brown? He was with me in VAH 11 and finished a long career in A3’s. Last I heard he was in San Antonio, Texas.
Wayne Musgrove deserves a pat on the back for helping all of the others who put on the Pensacola get together. Wayne is another Vah 11 crewman. Also Bill Vinson and Bill Parsons of 11 were there.
May 28, 2007 at 11:43 pm |
Jerry Ercikson,
I am in contact with a few of the Fine A3 TC’s of the World Famous Savage Sons. I also have all the info on Dave Dearoplh, he just traveled from PNS A3 reunion to his summer home in PA.
My Email is dpierce12@tampabay.rr.com
May 29, 2007 at 12:12 am |
Hey Erickson, Kilbride here.
email: brigand2@aol.com
June 8, 2007 at 5:26 am |
If anyone knows AQC M.S. Dilts of Heavy 5, his flight jacket (G1) is up for auction on eBay.
June 22, 2007 at 5:16 pm |
Was in VAH-2, Whidbey, Is. 63-66. 2 WESTPAC criuses; Then VAQ-130 (Det 2) 69-73. Alameda, Ca.. 2 more cruises. ADJ -1 Rex Swindle. Enjoyed Magsaysay Dr. in Olongapo very much. LOL
June 27, 2007 at 9:45 pm |
How did the name Whale came about for the A-3s???
July 7, 2007 at 6:29 pm |
RAT,
The yellow shirts, aircraft directors on the flight deck and hanger deck, gave it the nick name “whale” for its size. It was not the easest aircraft to handle by the yelow shirts, the “point” being one of the hardest. The point is the parking spot forward of number 1 elevator. During directing the A3 to there, the pilot could look down and see the sea, nose wheel inches from edge of flight deck!!
By the way did you check out a bomber and see the hole on the back bulkhead to kick out the main gear, if required?
Those were the days my friends!
July 12, 2007 at 9:18 pm |
Thanks for the answer Don.
It is more appropriate name than those boys could have ever imagined. Years ago we had to salvage one of our A-3s and I tell you it was a sight. They brought this construction tractor that looked like a T-rex. Well, it was not easy as they thought and if anyone had any doubt about the A-3s ruggedness they should have been there. We had to take the air out of the tires because she would bounce three feet into the air every time she got hit on the wing spar. Finally after what seem to be an hour the spar eventually gave with such a force that rivets and sharpneral flew across the ramp and hit me!!! I was 100ft away!! (I took that as a good omen)
I tell you when that spar finally gave she made a sound just like a humpback whale. I kid you not.
As far as the access hole for manual emergency gear extension yes I have seen it on our bombers in Mojave. I have also heard stories of crew members who had to crawl back there without a chute over the bomb bay doors and use that big crowbar to dislodge the gear. All of our A-3s have that kick out cylinder now.
July 17, 2007 at 1:08 am |
RAT,
Thank you!
I know you don’t have an (1) airplane of your own, but us plane captains of A3’s, we referred to our airplane as “my airplane”. I have responded to every plane captain that signed on to the web site and said “my airplane”, about how proud we were to had a A3 of our own. Such a large, graceful, majestic flying machine and they let us take care of her, fly in her, and still paid us.
One time my A3 was scheduled in a bomber stream, launch time 0900. As I came down the flight line at 0400 to pre flight my airplane, I noticed a power unit was already plugged into my aircraft, everyone knew you didn’t touch my airplane without getting my OK, so I charged up into cockpit hollering and much to my surprize; there was ASB shop E-9 running the sample a problem on my airplane.
When I say “Those were the days” that is truely what I mean!
Everyone just loved those “WHALES”.
“World Famous”
August 4, 2007 at 12:04 am |
Thanks Don
I know the feeling and you are right.
Deep down I feel that all of our A-3s are MINE since I am the lead Mech on all of them and nothing happens until I make it happen. Nobody cares for our whales as much as I do.
Lately I have been assigning A/C to individual Mechs trying to bring them up to speed faster and to give them the feeling that you know so well but the bottom line is that the connection and the bond is not there for most of them. However there is hope for a young one (at 24 he must be the youngest whaler today) to replace me eventually. I must be careful though since many don’t deserve to learn my A-3s.
It has been nothing but an honor and a privilege to work on the A-3s and I hope to continue working on them until retirement.
August 5, 2007 at 2:10 pm |
I am enjoying the conversations of the old pros. I am reminded that almost 50 years ago (in September 1957) we Niners accompanied the good ship Saratoga on its maiden voyage across the Atlantic to participate in NATO’s Operation Strikeback. Along with 150 other ships from six NATO powers, the Sara tested her operational capabilities in the icy waters of the Norwegian Sea. We were still flying AJs in March, not receiving our first A3Ds until the next month. Just 5 months later we were operating within the Arctic Circle like old pros. Yes, we had our share of exploding windshields, violent storms, and ultra black nights. Magnetic North was due west of us, and there were so many large ships in the area it was sometimes difficult to locate the Sara. The Russians weren’t happy that we were there launching nuclear bombers southward toward undefended areas of the Soviet Union. Large numbers of small fishing craft positioned themselves in the path of the Sara during flight ops, and our crew got ambushed by some MiGs while sightseeing near a former sensitive area. But the Navy taught us well; we completed our mission, and had a little fun along the way. I have noted that each year there are fewer remaining from the “big stick” era; and I pause more often to give thanks for the old pros that I met along the way.
August 7, 2007 at 7:16 am |
Mr. Parris: Please contact me about your 57/58 Med cruise. VKRETSINGER@bak.rr.com
August 13, 2007 at 6:58 pm |
HATRON TEN it “69/70″ was a fun and memorable time. Everyone on the flight line were good guys although some were a little too gungho for me. I recall once, great discussion on how long should sideburns be. Now after almost 40 years it almost seems sureal, maybe it was… Richard W. Myers (my current e-mail is listed in the Skywarrier Assoc. guest book)
August 20, 2007 at 6:55 am |
Hey, all! I was just googling around for hits on VQ-2, and came upon this site. Wish the main entries were more recent (LOL) but I’m glad to see the comments still going. My husband and I were based at VQ-2 in Rota, Spain from 87-90. Although he flew the EP-3, we had several friends in the A3 community.
I think y’all might be interested on a video I was finally able to upload to Google Video yesterday: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4903832763538491686&hl=en (It’s also at my own blog, CatHouse Chat ( http://www.cathousechat.com/cathouse_chat/2007/08/a3-flyby-rota-s.html ) In 1989, VQ-2 staged a 7 plane flyby of the EA3B, and that’s what the video’s all about. It’s about 20 minutes long, and the video and sound aren’t the greatest (hey! it’s almost 20 years old!), but if you decide to go watch, I hope it’ll bring back a few memories.
I’m glad I found you – now start posting more entries!
– Kat
http://www.CatHouseChat.com
August 23, 2007 at 1:29 am |
To: Ed Parris
My Dad, Richard E. (Dick) Fowler, Jr., flew in Heavy 9 and deployed on the Sara, I believe also in ‘57. Perhaps you knew him. He passed away in April ‘01. He enjoyed flying the A3. He said it flew so high and so fast that, at the time, there were few aircraft in the world capable of intercepting it. But the advent of SAMs meant they had to change tactics and he told me of the loft bombing technique they adopted. It sounded prety improbable to me so I asked him how accurate could that be. He said that with the computer turned off (he didn’t like it) from 6 miles out he could put it within a 500 foot radius of the target. The saying that close is only good in horseshoes and handgranades should also include nukes!
Dad also served in VAH-4 and RECONTAKWINGONE.
rfsaltypup@aol.com
August 23, 2007 at 1:37 pm |
I have some great p;ictures of whales landing on the Ranger, is there any way I can attach them to the comments??
August 23, 2007 at 2:26 pm |
Jim,
It should be possible. I’ll check. One way or the other, email them to us and we’ll use them on the web site.
Al Rankin
President, A-3 Assn.
president@a3skywarrior.com
September 9, 2007 at 2:40 am |
I was with VAH-4 from 1961 to 1964 as an ordnanceman and later as a weapons loading crew chief. Around 1963, a plane captain, I think his name was Mike Greber was up on one of our birds dippng a fuel reading in the center tank. The problem was that Mike had a nylon flight jacket on and the stick was glass. He wiped the dip stick with the jacket and then stuck the stick back in for a 2nd reading and then there was a large boom and Mike went straight up for about 20 ft came down on one of the engines which broke his fall along with his arm, probably saving him from a more serious injury. After that the Navy changed all of their sticks to wood. Does anyone at Whidbey during that time remember the incident!!!!
September 14, 2007 at 5:24 pm |
I was just looking at the page that said that several Whales were stored at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tuscon AZ. Then I went to “Live Search” on windows. I looked up D M AFB fully spelling it as in the previous sentence. Then I zoomed in and found them. Then I clicked on birds eye view. I counted 28 whales. One looked as if it was urwrapped. If you zoom in on birds eye you can almost read the tail markings. I imagine one could find any whale (that is on display out doors) that way. Most areas have birds eye view some don’t. If you are familiar with a place you may only have to find it on the map and zoom in. Have fun trying; Richard W. Myers former ASH-3
September 14, 2007 at 5:48 pm |
Regarding the dip stick incident. It was explained to us thoroughly as rookies. Our CO in H10 flew to Norfolk to fly accross to visit one of our dets on a Med cruise in 1969. He found out the plane had a plastic push button dip stick. We had to ready another whale and crew just to fly a wood dip stick to Norfolk so the P.C. could check the fuel. (I think the plastic push button ones were much easier to read as long as you didn’t load it with static.) Wouldn’t it have beem much cheaper and quicker just to have someone on base to use the plastic stick to pattern a new wooden one. Of course there was three ways to do anything, the right way, the wrong way and the Navy, which was usually to use a bigger hammer hahaha.
September 17, 2007 at 8:43 pm |
Just wanted to relate an incident that happened during the 60-61 cruise
on the Coral Sea. I was attached to VAH2 at the time. As I remember,
we were having some high altitude bombing practice on an old tug boat
that was towed out from Yokosuka. It seems our XO, CDR Tucker zeroed in
on the tow boat that pulled the tug out to sea. Anyway, he nearly got a
direct hit on the tow boat. luckily, no one was killed but several of
the crew were brought aboard the Coral Sea for treatment of assorted
injuries. When we pulled back into Yokosuka, the bar (H-Bomb) that the
VAH2 guys frequented had a sign on the door that said, “welcome back
VAH2 – tug boat bombers”. How they knew so quick is beyond me. By the
way, CDR Tucker was transferred, to Spain (I think) in short order. I
would like to hear from anyone who might remember this incident as my
memory is starting to fade.
Darwin “Hap” Litzell
PN3, VAH2
September 19, 2007 at 5:40 pm |
I was with VAH-4 from early 1959 through January 1963 and made two WestPac cruises aboard the Bonnie Dick (CVA-31) and the Lex (CVA-16).
When I was first assigned to the line crew, we used the wooded dip sticks to check how many pounds of fuel were in the tank while fueling.
After each ‘dip’ we would wipe the stick dry with the inside of our foul weather jacket (remember this was Whidbey Island) to get a dry stick and contine until we reached the correct amount.
We just eyeballed the wing tanks and had the refueling truck operator cut the supply when it got close to the top.
While I was on carrier quals, the Navy made the switch to the plactic dip sticks. The top had a metal circular flange (probable stainless or chromed steel) to stop the dip stick at the correct depth and a hole that one would put his thumb over to stop air from entering the tube and keeping the fuel from running out. They were a lot easier to read.
But poor Greber was the first and hopefully the only plane captain to destroy a brand new plane with static electricy with the new dip sticks!! Opened the forward fuel tank like a sardine can.
After that, we were instructed to touch the steel ring to the metal skin (away from the open tank) to discharge the static prior to insertion.
Anyone know the whereabouts of Greber?
(Funny, I always thought it was Mel Fry that blew that plane apart.)
Harold C Lewis
lewish2@gdls.com
November 20, 2007 at 4:29 pm |
I went to VAH-2 in March 1957 to be with my brother, Carl Fitzwater “Big Fitz” at North Island, San Diego, CA. Went aboard Bon Homme Richard Det Bravo for Carrier Quals them to NAS Whidbey Island, WA. Then went aboard the Ticonderoga for Far East Cruise 1957-58 then back to Whidbey. In 1958-59 aboard the Bon Homme Richard for second Far East Cruise. Transferred to VAH-123 in 60-62. Would like to hear from anyone from VAH-2 or VAH-123. I have year books from both cruises.
November 24, 2007 at 12:59 am |
For Mike Fitzwater,
Mike, my brother (Dave “Tweets” Litzell) were both in heavy 2. My brother was in North Island in 57′ and made a cruise on the Bonnie Dick. He went to Whidbey the same time you did. I joined the squadron out of boot camp in AUG 59′. Dave was discharged in 1960 as an ADJ3. We are both retired and live in Wisconsin. You can email me at mrhap@chibardun.net. Regards,
Hap Litzell
December 14, 2007 at 12:51 am |
CVA-64 Horn Cruise VAH-10 Det. Bravo:
Cdr. Bob Turley lost a nose wheel and strut on the cat shot. He landed into the net as soon as fuel dump was complete and the deck was ready. Allegedly he landed it one handed while filming with his movie camera. Is there such a film? Maybe Mr Andy Lazas the BN knows. It landed on the blown down lower hatch and that held the nose and plane up. It was up and flying by the time we got to San Deigo.
December 16, 2007 at 2:53 am |
very interesting, but I don’t agree with you
Idetrorce
December 16, 2007 at 7:09 pm |
Mike…the word “allegedly” has got your six covered. I flew some with CDR Turley when he was a LT, and a good pilot he was even then. However, having trapped aboard about 300 times in an A3, I have yet to see a pilot that wasn’t much too busy to be taking a video, at good/normal conditions, much less coming in to take the net. Good story though.
Will Haney USN Retired
December 18, 2007 at 3:07 pm |
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Bill Sowell last week. I am sure that most of the old-timers from Sanford knew him. I first met him in August 1956; we were part of a B/N class in HATU. Others in the class were ENS Bob Anderson, ENS Dave Bielawski, AQC Cromwell, and PO1 Pemberton. We graduated in early 1957 while the squadrons were still flying the memorable AJ, but it was not long before the new A3Ds began to arrive and the NAS came alive. Over the next few years the squadrons were heavily committed to augment with the fleet, and personnel were busy coming and going, but years later I managed to catch up with Bill on the Internet and we discussed a range of topics. Bill was a square-shooter, and I always looked forward to his comments on various matters. His hard work and expertise in Heavy Attack–with the help of others similarly dedicated–allowed the Navy to produce a formidable fighting force that helped win the Cold War. We will miss him.
December 20, 2007 at 10:34 pm |
The landing into the net did happen, I was in Flight Deck Contol when it happened! I also worked on replacing the raydome and all the ASB parts in the nose. It may have been the BN or 3rdCrewman that shot the movie, if there is one. It would be worth seeing. That Lower door sure was tough.
January 2, 2008 at 3:47 pm |
It is great to hear all of these stories. I was a plane captain (ao3) in vaq130 det 3 From 1968 to 1971. Went wespac on the tyco, bonnie dick and the big O.Had some great times in the process. Got together with for a reunion with some of the boys this past october in las vegas. We are planning another one in 09.If you need info contact gordy davidson nalan@mchsi.com. When I have more time i’ll relate some of my own. Jack
February 19, 2008 at 2:37 am |
Hey Rat, that A-3 you guys had to salvage was 144846, VAQ-34’s GD210.
I wish that I had known about the salvage, I would have done just about anything to get a couple parts from it as I have about 180 flight hours in it and countless maintenance hours working on it.
Do you have any pictures of it being salvaged?
Drop me a line at vaq34webmaster (at) yahoo.com
February 19, 2008 at 8:02 pm |
Served in HEAVY 5 1961 to 1964 then to HEAVY 3 till discharge feb 65.
Just found this site and it does bring back many good memories of our tour of duty and to see that a lot of our shipmates are still around.
I flew with Cdr. Ken Hamilton and B/N “Pete” Denlea.
live 45mi west of Philadelphia
Have agreat day everyone
mac
March 3, 2008 at 4:03 pm |
Was in Pax river on Vip A3 with Bud Theesen ,Cdr Savage, Ltcdr Lillybow
from 61-63, then went to Heavy 8 until 65.
Have made contact with a few of the guys from VAH 8 , had a lot of good times during the two westpac cruise’s and up in Vancouver BC would like to hear from some of the other guys in the “line crew & plane captains”.
Have a good one / Syd
March 5, 2008 at 2:20 am |
I was in VAQ-33 1971-1974 First time to this site. Don’t see much about the jammers.
March 8, 2008 at 7:10 am |
One night out in the Pacific near Japan, about 1962,aboard the Midway,one of my squadrons (VAH-8) A3s lost its brakes during night flight deck operations. With full crew aboard, it rolled backwards and one wheel dropped down into the catwalk. It was very dark, probably only starlight. I was about 30 feet out in front of the plane as its radome started swinging upwards into the near black night sky. I could just barely make out the image of the extended strut and nose wheel way above my head, aircraft at about a 45 degree angle to the deck. Hanging from the nose wheel was the plane captain. I’m pretty sure that his name was Young. I ran over and grabbed his ankles! The plane did not go over the side. I’ve always thought that the plane captain saved his plane. Does anyone out there remember this story? Perhaps the pilot used power to bring the nose down as far as he could, a near gonner!!!
April 25, 2008 at 9:50 pm |
My dad was Dick Favreau – Heavy 9 – Saratoga – crashed in the Med. 2/58 when I was 3 weeks old. Anyone out there remember him/or the accident. Would love to hear stories.
Thanks for looking.
April 26, 2008 at 4:01 pm |
Old -but-true-story.
I.O det on Connie in 81-82/ PR003
Ripper driving, Mouse in the right seat.
Comming off track and enroute for the last recovery.
Ripper has to drain off the coffee. Pilot-seat relief tube is…to short.
Ripper gets up to use the tube by pos-4, and prior to unplugging, asks Mouse to drive. SO, as Ripper struggles aft, shedding the in-the-way-gear, Boris and Mouse conspire via ICS and the nose of ” The Aging Beauty” starts up almost imperseptively. Camera now on Ripper w/ right-hand on personal-hardware and left-hand on rapidly filling cup. “OK MOUSE”. Now the nose comes gently(?) down and our intrepid pilot must let go of SOMETHING, to stop his assent to the overhead. Never asked him which hand he…reached up with, but the effect would be the same irrespective.
To his credit, Ripper didn’t whimper and Mouse, et al stopped their Laugh-Ex prior to the BALL-CALL.
Ripper was a NATURAL pilot, First Round-Eye to captain for JAL, I think. As to Mouse, already the best NAV, had a grand career as a TRANSVEST-FO in Hoovers.
It’s true. No SHIT!
April 26, 2008 at 7:55 pm |
It would be worth a dollar to me if anyone could get Cdr Nico Over to tell the true story of the Cubi C.Q. period w/ Cdr Ron Woltman.
————————-
Or the one about Capt Jimmy Vambell and the cat.
June 2, 2008 at 1:02 am |
I remember Coyote and Nico from VQ-1 (and Nico again from VAQ-33).
Does Coyote ever relate the tale of how Ens. Dave Dolan (drunk, as usual) spun Coyote’s white Boss 302 Mustang into a stand of bamboo on Guam and then just “didn’t bother” to tell him about it? When Coyote came into the Ready Room the next morning to ask Dolan to step outside he showed more self control than I ever thought he had – of course, he was a LT in those days.
Mad Dog Kelley – EC-121J and EP-3B/E – VQ-1
ERA-3B VAQ-33
June 2, 2008 at 1:04 am |
Of course, there are other stories about Coyote and Nico I WON’T be telling here!
June 2, 2008 at 6:58 pm |
For Liz Favreau.
Hi; In regard to your note of 25 April 2008, I feel very sorry for the loss of your Dad in that air accident involving an A3D over 50 years ago. I knew him well, and flew with him many times as the squadron was acquiring new aircraft and preparing for a busy deployment schedule. Your Dad had a great personality and was very bright and efficient. The Saratoga was on its way to the Mediterranean, as I recall, and our squadron–VAH-9–was still attempting to gain familiarity with the new aircraft. Our crew–LCDR Jim Nelson, Chief Bolger, and I were airborne at the time of the accident, and there were recurring comments on the radios that one of the fighter aircraft appeared to have lost an external fuel tank. As I recall, Abe Fennell, flying with LCDR McBratnie, saw the object and made a comment on VHF. I believe that the point of impact was noted, and the Saratoga began an investigation at that time. It was not until our aircraft were recovered, however, that we began to suspect that the mishap involved one of our aircraft, one piloted by Jim Chaffee with Bob Martin as the B/N, and Dick Favreau as the Crewman. The loss of these three wonderful people will never be forgotten by any of their squadron mates. On a personal note, our crew had been involved with the same aircraft on an Operational Readiness Inspection flight aboard the Ranger on 3 December 1957 and we suffered an oxygen problem which caused the pilot to lose consciouness for a significant amount of time. I am not qualified to comment on the cause of the accident involving your Dad, but I feel confident that something catastrophic occurred at altitude. Best wishes, Ed Parris eparris@earthlink.net
July 4, 2008 at 5:40 am |
does anyone remember my dad, ray d murphy? He passed away this last February and I would love to hear some stories about him. I do remember Dick Fowlers name and also remember Charlie McCarthy
July 24, 2008 at 1:04 am |
I was a member of Heavy 13 (VAW-13) Det 61– WestPac 67-68. Along with Heavy 2 aboard the USS Ranger. She was CVA-61 then. I hated to see the ol’ Girl downgraded to a CV. We had the first EKA-3Bs of VAW-13. Heavy 2 sent KA-3Bs aboard. Before being transfered to Alameda, CA I was in Heavy 2 so had a lot of friends from there as well as Heavy 13.
I would like anyone who was in either squadron during this time to contact me. My EMail is johnjanerandolph@alltel.net
August 21, 2008 at 5:15 am |
Boris, Mad Dog and Mouse. Wow, talk about three names from the past! Sorry Boris, but I can only hope my CQ stores from the past will remain dormant. Nico has sworn to secrecy. And I have conveniently forgot everything from the past. If I can keep Dumpy and Rob from chiming in, I will be golden.
Mad Dog…I still consider you the luckiest man alive!!!
….Roger Ball Whale
August 28, 2008 at 6:47 pm |
Anyone from the 1968/9 JFK Heavy 10 Det 6 deployment, except Larry Irvin, I see him often here on the Rock.
September 2, 2008 at 10:40 pm |
Hi,
Yes there is a film made of the A-3 going into the baricaded. This film was made by my dad, Andy Lazas, the BN. I have seen the film several times as a kid. He is alive and well, living in Arizona.
Andy Lazas III
September 3, 2008 at 12:53 pm |
This is the reply from Andy Sr to Mike Mullen:
Yes i have the film. I gave a talk at the aero club and put it on a disc.
I thought that you saw the film.
There was some errors in that I took the pictures, and we got chewed out
for lowering the hatch. That caused more structial damage
then if we landed with it up.
Andy Lazas Sr.
September 4, 2008 at 11:26 pm |
Dear Andy,
I would love to have a copy of your A-3 barricade film, can you share with a fellow carrier sailor?
My email is jkaposi@hotmail.com
I have tons of footage i can share.
joe
September 23, 2008 at 4:18 am |
Gentlemen: I’m trying to break into a ULTRA TOP SECRET part of the U.S. Military. I’ve asked this question of almost every Person, Military unit (those involved) and various manufactures.
How the Hell does the Hose and Probe conection work. I’ve been given the most Top Secret RUN AROUND that has ever been developed.
My best quess is that it is like two ball check valves and three or more spring clips, to hold the Probe into the Drogue.
I’m sure that all our friends and also all our enemys have this infomation. BUT NO-ONE in the U.S. can give me an answer.
P.S. it was just comming into vogue in the Navy when I got out. So that’s why I don’t know how it works.
Any-one willing to break the TOP SECRET clearance of this military Secret with information about it will have my UNDIEING GRATATUDE.
VAH-3 56/59
September 24, 2008 at 6:21 pm |
From time to time I like to look back on my naval career and think about where I was exactly 50 years ago. That would be 24 September, 1958. I was attached to Heavy Attack Squadron Nine as a Bombardier-Navigator, and we on the Saratoga had just been relieved of our Mediterranean duties and were homeward bound. We expected to be able to relax on the way home, and some of the old-timers said that some sun bathing might be a possibility. We had been deeply involved in the Lebanon Crisis, and nuclear war with the Soviet Union had been a distinct possibility–I was the Skipper’s B/N and we had an aircraft loaded and ready to go. At any rate, cooler heads prevailed. Under the guidance of Rear Admiral Cooper, Carrier Air Group Three had broken all previous records for readiness. We had survived, and we were ready for a pleasant cruise home. We had heard that there were two hurricanes headed toward the US East Coast; all the more reason to stow the flight gear. But we were completely unprepared for Rear Admiral George W. Anderson, who had relieved Admiral Cooper. The rumor was that Anderson had developed a physical problem that required a year of medical care–he had been a Vice Admiral but had to yield his slot. Anderson’s plan was simple; we would break the readiness record–set a few months earlier–and we would have dress inspections to build up morale. To keep the personnel loose, each squadron would stand inspection in a uniform prescribed by Anderson, and only 12 hours would be given for preparation. Frankly, I didn’t give a damn; as a Reservist I had put in my time, and I planned to be a civilian in just a few months. To Hell with Anderson (he was later fired on the spot by Defense Secretary McNamera). Well, the inspection began, and Anderson started in my direction at a fast pace. Someone must have told him that I had stapled my collar on, and the heels kept falling off my shoes because of the rusty nails due to being seaborne so long. God! He sure was tall–certainly the tallest Admiral I had ever seen. So, he was just about to grab me when he must have noticed my lowly rank. Certainly it would be seen as cowardly to chew on a JG. So he grabbed my Department Head instead, CDR Chuck McBratnie. Chuck had been using his brown shoes when he went on liberty, and over time they had become a rather pleasant non-military cherry color. They became the kiss of death, and I had to endure a terrible massacre. Well, under Anderson we flew and flew; survived the hurricanes, but lost several aircraft due to the bouncing boat. As mentioned, Anderson distinguished himself in the eyes of the Navy brass, but ultimately went down in flames at the hands of a civilian. I am sure Chuck had the last laugh.
September 25, 2008 at 10:42 pm |
I just found this site, and I have enjoyed reading everyone of these postings. I joined the Navy 50 years ago the 22nd of this month. After AQ school in Memphis I was sent to VAH-3 in Sanford. That was Feb of 1960. I was told the shop was full. I was sent to Operations to scrub the decks for an inspection. The Chief found out I could type, and later rewarded me with a slot in 3/C school. I was in VAH-3 until I was released in Sept of 1962. No sea duty, but I did manage to volunteer for 4 car-qual “cruses”. I maintained the flight log books when not flying, so I am sure I saw the names of a lot of crewmembers over those years. Both the training folks, and the “students”. I would love to hear from anyone that remembers me, or was there during that period of time.
ron_staples@hotmail.com
October 17, 2008 at 8:15 pm |
Syd Mills, I am Bud Theesen son just came across this website, My dad is doing great of course retired and living in Camp Springs right in the area of Andrews Air Force Base where we were last stationed. I will pass your name on to him. I sure there will be many of great story…Take care
October 28, 2008 at 7:28 pm |
I can still remember my first day at NAS OAK HARBOR—I was attached to VAH 123—I became a plane captain and aftger a few months the squadron had extra money I was asked if I wanted to before a flying plane captain—I jumped at the chance.The chief in charge was a guy the loud voice—but afgter a while I got use to him—His name was Chief Gamble—I use to work on the line the mid night shift—-When one of the shops needed a plane turned up ,they would always ask for me,because alot of times I would turn it up to almost %100 on the line. I can remember once the CO of the base came out to the line,while I was in the plane—boy did I gets a chewing out for waking him up at 3 am.A few days I ran into him on the base and he told me that he thought I was about to take off right from the line.I also loved going out to hight power
October 28, 2008 at 11:14 pm |
To Sid Humphreys, I too was 3rd Crewman in VAH-11 with 2 flight crews, Pilot: Nils A A Carson, B/N: Larry Britton 58-59, Pilot: H. F (Hank) Dement, B/N: G. A. Mallek Haven’t heard from any of them since 1960, did hear rumor one of the crews perished after I got out near Sanford, about 1960 or 1961. Couldn’t confirm. Heard from Keith Tourney a few years ago was okay then. Tom Farmer
November 3, 2008 at 6:29 am |
I was in Heavy 10 from late 68 to 3/3/70, in charge of the flight line equipment the whole time, since I was an ASH-3 that’s what I did. They wouldn’t let me go on Det. for fear I would go T.A.D. to the G.S. equipment shack on ship. I was so broken hearted I laughed all the way back to the barracks. I knew a “Hill Billy” named Hogan, said to have hung out at the Shamrock Tavern in Mt. Vernon. Appearantly he owned a goat because, everything was uglier, dumber, or meaner, etc. than Hogans Goat. I heard a lot about someone named “Nasty Nan” who was at the Shamrock, none of it good. I went there once with Gary Lees, it was no big deal but he said he had to put his car on “auto pilot” for the ride back.
These are the guys I hung around with most of the time, Tracy Viegel, Dave Tarci, Chris Sabo. A guy named Cecil still owes me $20.00 he and another guy borrowed for poker purposes. I knew another guy named Pat from Portsmith Ohio. He had a friend last name of Theim he called himself “Doc”. Well one day “Doc” went to Vancouver and as far as I know never came back. I blinked my eyes once in the spring of 69 and almost missed summer. I remember well the winter of 69/70. A typical winter if you lived in Michigan or Minnesota. Every one froze except those of us from Michigan or Minnesota. It was fun taking the tow tractors down to fill them with fuel in the piggybacked huffer. “Accidently ha ha” doing doughnuts around the corner. They took the A-3s out to melt the snow on the runways, only managing to make ice of them, another brilliant Navy move. See Ya…
November 3, 2008 at 6:34 am |
My correct E-Address is listed in the Skywarrier Guest book. Somewhere way back on page 11-12?. E-Mail me if you remember me.
November 12, 2008 at 11:02 am |
Wow…great memories. I was on Guam 64-65. I was in the personell office when I first got there. I hadn’t been back to the site for awhile…Been sitting here a good portion of the early morning reading.
I, for years have been trying to contact Al Ward, of course of the same time period. Has anybody heard from or anything about him? He lived in Allentown, PA I think…He is a great big guy. Any help would make me very happy. Thanks
November 22, 2008 at 12:15 am |
Glad to hear all the old stories. I had a few stories to tell but not too many people to tell them to. Heav 2, 4, 10 and 123 Gunner Navigator, Crewman Navigator, Plane Captain, Nav Instructor and baggage loader. broken nose gear on cat shot on Oriskany and wheels up at Atsugi 1960. Hydraulic and landing gear would not blow, landed Mirimar one main in foam with high risk cargo. Dropped Mk 76 practice bombs in Haiphong Harbor while taking radar photos to fool NVA. First two TA3B transpacs escorting Vigelantes to Yankee Sta. Longest unrefueled transpac (Atsugi to Barbers Pt.) Cruise climb and idle decent 7 hours. (gravity fueled at Atsugi. Low fuel light at ADIZ Took 4935 gallons at Barb.) Many friends no longer here. Good friend with Joe Flood, Bill Gieck and many others. Live in Oak Harbor and Barugo Leyte Philippines. Drop a line if you remember me.
November 27, 2008 at 1:09 am |
Hi “Charlie” Brown. Glad to hear you are still around up here, at least part time. I still live in Anacortes. I just might run into you at the exchange or commissary one of these days. I’m not even sure you will remember me. I wa a PC in VAH 123.
December 22, 2008 at 1:43 am |
To Andy Lazas Sr and III; Yes , yopu jogged my memory you were the B/n For Cdr. Turley. I would love to see a copy of the film. My email address is Mumi42@verizon.net.
Who was the 3rd Crewman? I remember we had it fised and flyiong when we reached San Deigo after that great Horm Cruise.
December 22, 2008 at 1:49 am |
To the Lazas’s; sorry about the typing errors but I wqas excited to have confirmation that the film did exist, Andy Sr. I can still picture you today!
December 23, 2008 at 2:44 am |
Hey, Charlie Brown,
We were in VAH-123 as flying plane captians and Crewman/Navigators 64-67 with Bob Froelick (SP?), Tommiser (SP) among others who live in your area.
Saw Joe Flood at the 50th in Van Nuys. Bill Gieck! wow another name from the past. My career ended due to some medical problems when I ejected from a TA-4J.
December 23, 2008 at 4:52 pm |
For Tom Farmer.Good to hear from you althogh I’m late! I got out of VAH 11 in March 62 and 1961 was a rough year for our crews. 14 out of 44 I had counted in mid 62. my crew was a survivor in early 61 after a bailout over Crete. I have wondered about a T/C we called ANGEL. Big guy and he got out and I always remembered dragging him aboard one wild night in Naples. He wouldn’t forgive us for dumping him in front of the OD Officer, but as we said” last boat, we were pulling out, he would have been AWOL! Man, he still got mad! …and his name was ANGEL. (big blond Swede) What fun!
January 3, 2009 at 5:28 pm |
Seeing the posts from Mad Dog and Coyote took me back to VQ-1, VAQ-33, and VQ-2. I was there and cherish the memories of some of the crazy times we had together. Ron – you didn’t really think I could pass up a word or two about “Dumpex ‘75″ did you? I saw Rob Ingals a couple of years ago at one of the get togethers and we really had a good laugh about it. I’ll maintain decorum and just say that Rob had a heck of a time trying to fly wing on Nico while Coyote was “busy” and I really had a hard time trying to explain to the Boss on the Kitty Hawk why we couldn’t “Charlie NOW!” I’d love to hear from any of you guys who read this. My email is ken_darnell@yahoo.com. Thanks for the memories guys. Say hello to anyone you’re in touch with for me.
February 25, 2009 at 2:15 am |
Anyone know my stepdad Lt. Patrick R. Staples VAQ 130 NAS Alameda, California?
March 6, 2009 at 2:13 am |
I was stationed at whidbey island as a plane captain with vah-10&123 served on the Forestal and the Shangri-la aircraft carriers. this was about 1967-1969. did both med.&vietnam tours. remember the good times as well as the bad we had. the people i flew with we’re the best i have ever been assosiated with. would like to hearfrom anybody during that time. yes,nobody sat in the fourth seat unless essential. bailout drill was get your ass moving or you had tracks up your back.
March 12, 2009 at 4:36 pm |
For Mark: I flew with a LT Staples in VAQ-135 back in 1969-70.
March 16, 2009 at 12:57 pm |
Coyote – drop me a line and tell me again why I am the luckiest man alive (I sure don’t know!).
You can reach me at boroimbhe@gmail.com.
Good to see you post!
March 27, 2009 at 7:45 pm |
I hadn’t checked in, in a while, and my last comment were about VAH-10, i am glad to see there were some folks in Happy Heavy 10! I joined the squaderon in july of 64, and yes i remember the day we wern’t going to take it any more, i never saw so many planes loaded to the hilt! August 64, Ten split up into Det. for the next cruse a Med on FDR CVA42, then in 66 back on FDR for a west pac. I rember seeing Oriskine as she burned that morning. I swear i saw John Mc Cain on board later any one know for sure? I made lots of good friends during those years, keep in touch with some to this day.
April 7, 2009 at 7:05 pm |
I was at NALF Crows Landing Crash Crew 68-70 watching you Whalers Bounce & blow tires over in the valley.
VAW 13 & Lcdr Carrol Beeler [LSO] were our frequent guest during MLP’s.
I have tons of hours on the Hard Stand watching & hot refueling Whales.
If your in San Diego USS Midway has a great EA-3B on the flight deck.
April 15, 2009 at 3:58 pm |
Where are the old-timers? I have vivid recollections of many professionals who phased from the old AJ (one engine turning and two burning) into the fantastically modern and welcome A3D. I was at Sanford, and the early birds used to come down from JAX for touch and goes. We would drop what we were doing and go out along the runway–usually “nine”–to enjoy the show; such power when the bird was light! Months later, when Heavy Nine began to get its aircraft from Douglas, our crew would head for Pinecastle AFB to make touch and goes on runway One Eight. Recall that Pinecastle was just south of Orlando, and SAC was flying B-47s from there. I was assured by our pilot, LCDR Jim Nelson that deep Navy pride had nothing to do with bouncing at Pinecastle, where they were burdened with those ageing, obsolescent aircraft. And bounce we did, with plenty of thrust, dust, and noise. We noted the airforce folks running out to view what was going on as we headed for the sun, and it was such a great feeling!
May 10, 2009 at 4:04 pm |
Ed Parris;
Guess I would qualify as an “Old Timer”—Plank Owner in Heavy Three, moved to Sanford from Jacksonville after 57/58 Med cruise on the FDR.Did time in Heavys Six and Eight before leaving for career in Aerospace with GE, McDonnell/Douglas and retired from Aerojet. Currently retired in Madrid Spain, after “hitches” on Costa del Sol(MANY trips to Rota) and Barcelona. Decided some time ago to retrace every inch possible of the 57/58 Med cruise—Girls look a LOT younger now.
May 11, 2009 at 5:25 pm |
Richard; I came to VH-3 in Dec 56, was assigned to flight line (plane captain on A/C #7 BuNo 135442)
Contact me re 57/58 Med cruise.
May 11, 2009 at 6:07 pm |
Victor:
I think I remember you—I was assigned to the operations department working for CDR Warren Hoeller—Since we didn’t have an abundance of people with Radar experience, I also did maintenance on the ASB-1 system. I eventually went to work for GE in Daytona Beach on the Apollo program and went to a couple of Heavy Three reunions in Sanford. I was especially pleased to find on my last trip there that my pilot B.B. Brown, who was the youngest plane commander on the 57/58 med cruise was then CO of the squadron, We spent the entire night reminiscing.
May 11, 2009 at 7:27 pm |
Richard Contact me at VKRETSINGER@bak.rr.com (Bakersfield, Calif.
May 14, 2009 at 2:37 am |
It has been really great to discover this site. It would be fantastic to hear from any VAH-1, VAH-8 or other Med squadrons who flew the ‘Naples Bomb Plot,’ the Radar Bomb Scoring unit in Naples, Italy aboard the Naval Air Facility at the Capodichino airfield. I was part of the crew there, and got to know lots of the VAH crew when they would cook up a reason to land at NAF Naples and come by the RBS trailers. I was a TD and did a most of the comm and inbound clearance for crews making runs on one of the 13 targets we had surveyed around Naples. I had several TAD assignments where I got to squeeze in under the day-nav sextant across from the third crewman as a “4th crewman.” Lots of great memories. Pop-up runs, and I wIll never forget a reserve Lt. Cdr pilot on one night op who boltered three times before we finally trapped. Still remember the third crewmen calling “speed brakes” as we were trapping . . . if we got a wire it came out as “speed braaaaaaaaa.”
I still have my first flight certificate from VAH-1 certifying me for “Cigar Smoking, Claw Polishing, and Mushroom Cloud Blowing, Launched October 12th, 1960, in A3D Bu. No. 138933″ and signed by the Grand Tiger, Cdr. Dave King. Ring any bells with anyone??
May 18, 2009 at 3:08 am |
FOR KEN DARNELL == YOUR NAME OPPED UP FROM THE PAST. ANDY BARBRE
HERE. A3 A/C IN VQ1, MUGU, VAQ33 &34. DO YOU HAVE CONTACT WITH NICO,
EDDIE RENFRO, ROB INGALLS OR DAVE GREEN. E-MAIL OR SNAIL NAIL? HOPE
ALL IS WELL. ANYONE REMEMBER 2 DRAG CHUTES AT CQ’S AT CUBI, 1974 I
THINK. TAKE CARE=== ANDY BARBRE
May 18, 2009 at 3:43 am |
Last email I had for Nico (Falcon 104) was nicomax@erols.com.
May 27, 2009 at 12:26 am |
Hello Andy,
Good to hear from you. I haven’t seen or heard about Eddie Renfro since leaving VAQ-33. I ran into Rob Ingalls at one of the reunions. He’s retired from the airlines but don’t remember where he lives. Also at the reunion was Jesse James, Dave Green and Jim York. Jesse splits time between homes in Texas and Florida, Dave Green lives in Victoria, Texas, and Jim York lives in Houston, Texas. I’ll have to dig to find some email addresses and get back to you if you email me at ken_darnell@yahoo.com. I also keep in touch with Mike “Mad Dog” Kelley. I was there in Cubi in ‘74 for the big CQ period but don’t remember the drag chutes. Is there a story there? I really enjoy hearing from everyone and I’m still trying to get hold of Coyote and Nico.
June 14, 2009 at 6:32 pm |
I’ve been trying to find Master Chief Billy Ruth. Has anyone heard from him or does anyone know what happened to him? I was at VAQ-33 in Key West from 1985-88, working on the flight line, the airframes shop, AMU-2, and then as duty driver. B.R. really helped me out when I was having a tough time, and I just want to thank him.
August 23, 2009 at 1:52 pm |
Hello Andy, Jr. and Sr.,
How funny our paths cross after so many years. On of my very good friends and former college advisors (retired), flew Skywarriors. His name is CAPT. Doc G. Faulkner. I just found this out as I was assisting his family clean out his office. And I faintly remembered stories of Andy Sr. and the Navy and the Skywarrior and thought I would look you up. And who knows, maybe you and Doc crossed paths. I know he flew Bearcats, F-4Us, and Banshees. I try to get sea stories out of him, but he is not in the best shape these days.
Hope all is well.
Greg
SSP (Class 1987)
October 6, 2009 at 12:25 pm |
On a serious note for those of us who flew the ERA3B – I’ve been wondering what past exposure to high levels of electromagnetic radiation has done to us healthwise in the long-term.
When you consider that the EA-6B, EF-111, and the EF-18 all have gold-impregnated canopies and shielded crew compartments to protect them from the energy emitted by the same jammers we had on the ERA-3B and from which we were protected by a grand total of 1/16th inch of aluminum…
If you flew the ERA-3B, no matter in what capacity, I would appreciate if you would email me privately at boroimbhe@gmail.com with a synopsis of your current state of health. All communications will be maintained in strict privacy.
I am interested to see (and so is the former AF flight surgeon I see at VA) if there is any sort of definable long-term effect from unshielded EMR exposure.
October 22, 2009 at 9:20 pm |
I wanted to find a hobby big enough to accommodate my bounteous ego. ,