GUESTBOOK
By a3skywarrior
Just dropped in and want to say Hi?
Go ahead and leave a note.
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August 31, 2006 at 7:25 pm |
Hi,
Just checking out the new pages. If this keeps the “spammers” away it looks great.
John Day, I have been stuggling through the HOT!! Arizona summer, September is almost here and it will finally cool down. Just enjoying retirement.
September 5, 2006 at 7:08 am |
Just dropped in to say hello. A person doesn’t have to be retired Navy to be proud of having served. I served 3 years 8 months and 19 days, honorably discharged on a early out due to a military personel downsizing in 1970. I went to RTC in SanDeigo then 2 years at Nas Norris flight line, coup cleaning, security dept. and wheels watch. (an interesting and fun time). The rest of my time was spent being incharge of all the ground support equipment in HATRON TEN (another interesting and fun time). I like the association site it’s interesting and fun ha ha. Richard W. Myers Former ASH-3
September 26, 2006 at 3:45 pm |
Hey its great to see all the many pictures of A3s. I served 3 years in VAH 11 on the FDR 59-62 as thirdcrewman. Jerry Knutson’s crew.
October 14, 2006 at 2:17 am |
This my first visit to this website. I found it very interesting. I am just getting started to see what all the A-3 sites have. I started working on a-3’s just out of the service (AF) in 1972 for Hughes A/C at NAS Point Mugu Ca. Little did I know that I would finish and retire still working on A-3’s (2004) 32 years I owe alot of the knowledge that I aquired from my first supervisior (Mike J glenn) as I worked for Hughes and then Raytheon and had a varied aircraft experience along the way, but none as interesting as our Whales. In the end we had over 7 aircraft flying and many more as parts. I am retired now and living in Prescott Arizona not far from the local airport. Just wanted to let you know (JET3411@MSN.COM)
October 21, 2006 at 3:32 am |
New E mail address. Recently moved to Florida. Still looking for VAH-2 personnel from late 1960 to 1964. kdfeld@earthlink.net
October 21, 2006 at 9:11 pm |
The site brings back many memories. I was with VAH 2 in 57-58 and VAH 6 in 59-61 and again 64-65. I was a third crew for about 4 years and did ASB-1 maintenance for the rest of the time. I’m retired in the Phoenix area and still love flying, but I fly remote control models. I’d love to build an A3, but I can’t find any plans. If you have a lead, let me know.
October 26, 2006 at 3:54 am |
Note to Bob Flaherty and other AQs.
I can send you a copy of the AN/ASB-1A data flow chart.
Drop me a note. pcmcnally@hotmail.com
Put ASB-1A in the subject line so I won’t think it’s spam
November 5, 2006 at 4:38 am |
Stationed NAS Agana, Guam.Dec.1986-Dec 1990 VQ-1.
Glad I stumble across this web site, it good to see so much
“Whale!”
November 21, 2006 at 4:30 pm |
A Navy A3 Sky warrier classified as experimental flew yesterday in the Morenci MOA east of Tucson, AZ, near the New Mexico Border, about 2 pm local. The Air Traffic controller was not familiar with the Alpha 3 designation, and the pilot told him to check out this website. He had the airspace 18,000 feet and below to himself. I was flying near, and advised in clear language that the airspace was going hot in 4 minutes. I didn’t see the plane, but it might be the Raytheon project.
December 24, 2006 at 1:11 am |
Found this site via Google and it has brought back tons of memories. My dad was a Pilot for VW-1, 60-62 and 66-68. VAP-61 was there also and my family befriended a Whale driver. He was lost 14 October, 1967 over Nam. He was LCDR Robert R. Vaughan, and he was a very dear friend.
Thank you for reviving the memories.
December 24, 2006 at 7:34 pm |
Hi!
Nice info, big thx.
December 29, 2006 at 2:51 pm |
I was stationed at Whidbey and worked in Vah-2 and 10 as an At3. Made two cruises aboard the Ranger in 67 and 68. They are making progress on turning the Ranger into a musieum in Portland. Check out their website at http://www.ussrangercv61.com Had a great time working on the whales. Changed hundreds of Arc-27’s on the flight deck. I had a pair of safety-wire plyers that had many hours of flight time from being left in the hell hole!
January 5, 2007 at 3:41 am |
Jim;
I am Steve and was in vaw-13 and vaq-130 stationed in alameda also detached on the bon homme richard. I took carrier quals on the ranger in 67 i believe and new a couple of jet mechs by the name of wynn and ed sullivan. do you remember them. maybe if you have cruise books it will pick your mind some. thanks for your help and the best in the new year. steve berg of spring tx
January 5, 2007 at 5:59 pm |
There is a Heavy 4, Det Bravo patch on ebay. 1963 motor maulers, with names, Phil, Abe, Mel, Paul, Willy, and Joe. If that’s you or someone you know, it’s a nice nostalgia, Jap made patch.
January 5, 2007 at 7:26 pm |
I was attached to Heavy Four Det. Golf from 1965 to 1967at NAS Whidbey Island, WA and Det. Detachment Cubi Point, PI and onboard USS Oriskany. (Supply Dept. AKAN)
Heavy Ten 1967 to 1968 Whidbey Island,WA (Supply Dept.)
VAQ-131, 1968 to 1969 Aladema, CA (Supply Dept.)
Happy and Healthy New Years to all Heavy Shipmates from Retired in Dallas, Texas
Zane Predmore, USN (Ret.)
January 13, 2007 at 5:40 am |
Very nice web site guys, check out ours. we shared flight deck space with some of you Heavys ,on various carriers . I was a brown shirt with A4s (VA155) , another great plane from the boys at Douglas Always loved to see the whale accelerate down the cat, the skin actually rippled . clear skies and hot jets
January 14, 2007 at 2:13 pm |
Hi, is awesome to share in some of the stories and memories connected to the ”Whale”. I served an AQ from1962 to 1966. I was assigned to the Kitty Hawk (VAH-13) and detached to the Independence (VAH-4) -SHELLBACK- and the Oriskany (VAH-4), but my memories often drift to the Beach DET to Cubi Point. This morning I think that I solved a nagging question that I had for several years. I remembered seeing on an illustration for the removal on the AN-ASB1 bombing computer that was on a “Propeller Powered” plane. I now believe that the other plane that shared the same equipment was an AJ-1 Savage.
I happened to be driving near the flight line on NAS Rota in 1991 and when I heard the distinctive and familiar sound of two J-57s in the flight pattern. Thinking that the A3 had long since been out of service I wondered what type of plane it was. To my amazement it turned out to be an A3 landing during the last flights of the ‘Whale” at Rota. The whales were returning to the US for decommissioning following week. It was great to hear from “skiski ”that the whale still lives. Nice site.
Ralph Goodell
January 18, 2007 at 12:19 am |
To Bob Flaherty
I was in Heavy two from 57 to 59 made two trips overseas with VAH2 on the Bon Homme Richard CVA31.
I have in my possession some plans of the A3 that were sent to me from McDonnell Douglas by Harry Gann.
If You would contact me With your addtess I could supply you with copies of what I have.
January 24, 2007 at 7:40 pm |
Great site, I am bookmarking it!Keep it up!
With the best regards!
Jimmy
February 5, 2007 at 7:36 pm |
SARVER, Dennis (your Personnelman/Career Counselor/RAG Training)
VAH-8 (60-63) on bd (CVA-41 WP 61/63)
FAU, CFW (68-71)
VA-95 (71-75) on bd (CVA-43 WP 73/75)
VAQ-129 (75-79) (Retired)
Retired to SE coast Florida 2000
Email: w7hn@hotmail.com
14 years in Naval Air (all Whidbey) – an honor and pleasure to serve.
February 21, 2007 at 4:15 pm |
VW-1″ GUAM, VAH-2 CVA 61 DET MIKE , VAH-2 CVA-43
February 26, 2007 at 5:39 pm |
Hello,
I am the daughter of Edward “Jake” Jacobs that flew the A3 back in the 60’s
I was only 5 months old when he became MIA on Aug 25, 1967. I am looking for anyone that knew him or has information about my father.
March 11, 2007 at 10:26 pm |
Thanks to Jim Fox for the entry above about saving Ranger. Wanted to correct the web address.
It is http://www.ussrangercv61.org (not com).
I served at NAS Whidbey, VAH-6 (TAD to NAS) from February 1958 when we split the squadron leaving the AJ’s at NAS North Island and went north with the A3D’s, until March of 1960. Was on the first Westpac with Heavy 6 on USS Ranger CVA-61. Have a good friend, Jim Turpin, parachute packer that I still communicate with, lost touch with everyone else. Would like to find A.R (Al) Britten a personnelman who lived next door to me at Whidbey.
Now on the board of Directors to save Ranger as a museum ship (and you can bet I will find a place for a Whale if we are successful)!
March 12, 2007 at 9:40 pm |
I note the mention of the USS Ranger above. I haven’t been keeping up with the status of that great ship, and with so many of the Navy’s great ships being sunk as a form of disposal I sort of feared that it also might be a fish motel. I believe sinking is a terrible idea, incidentally. But back to the Ranger, our unit, VAH-9, went aboard the Ranger when it was newly operational–at Guantanamo–and we got carrier qualified aboard it. As I recall, C.T. Booth was the CO, and it was the summer of 1957. Our aircraft was in the slot to make the first operational landing, but we were waved off so that the aircraft behind us could have that honor. The pilot of that aircraft was CDR Norman McInnis, our ops officer, and his B/N was LT(jg) John Stevens. Our A3D landed behind McInnis, but he was kind enough to allow our crew to experience the first cat shot, which we did. Our crew consisted of LCDR Jim Nelson, myself, and Chief Bolger as third crew. We returned to the Ranger at the end of the year and VAH-9 brought recognition to the ship by skillfully dropping five inert nuclear weapons on the target range at Eglin AFB during an Atlantic exercise.
March 20, 2007 at 8:27 am |
Great site,served in heavy 3 and heavy 9
seeking info on deceased scpo joseph L Hofecker he was Stationed at Sanford
when the Base closed and moved to Albany also served on the Saratoga
don’t know Sq pr his Career field
I was contacted by his son who was young at the time of his fathers death
and is seeking any info that may be available on his father concerning his time at NAS Sanford and his Naval cereer
Anyone who knew SCPO Hofecker please contact me so I can put you in
contact with his son,Im sure you can appreciate a sons desire to learn
of his Fathers Career
Thank you
Ben Bruner/Heavy 9 /Hooter
March 27, 2007 at 5:45 pm |
Just browsing thru some Guam connected interest. I was stationed on Guam (VJ-61) 1956-1957, AIMD NAS 1969-1973. Noticed some changes in the 12 years I was gone. The biggest change seemed to be the WWII leftovers were almost completely gone when I returned in 1969. Enjoyed the island and met many wonderful local people. The Fiestas were great. My children were learning bad words in three different languages so decided it was time to return to Duva Duva. Retired in 1975.
April 24, 2007 at 2:51 am |
After all these years it was odd to “Google” the Skywarrior and lo and behold, find it as a piece of the 9-11 consipracy, believe it or not.
There are two web sites that are pitching sludge that it was a “secret Skywarrior” that did the Pentagon hit.
Good to see the old birds in the news again but this way? I still don’t know if I should laugh or cry?
NAS Agana/VAP-61/69-70
May 2, 2007 at 2:22 am |
If you are interested in a good quality model of any type of A3, William Randolph of Jacksonville, Fl, is the man to contact. I recently bought an EA3B configured model from him and the detail was excellant. He will build the model according to your specifications. His website is http://www.12oclockhigh.com and his email address is TwelveHigh@aol.com
May 3, 2007 at 1:03 am |
I just returned back to Minnesota from visiting the USS Midway museum in San Diego. It was awesome! I served aboard that old gal with VAQ 130 det.2 in 72-73 Westpac cruise.Tonkin Gulf. Sooooo many memories! Of course, while “on the line” for 30 days at a time, we flew round the clock sorties and worked 12 on 12 off, 24/7. The best part of the trip was seeing old 612 which I spent many an hour working on. I was an ADJ3 and they pulled that ship out of the desert to display on board. WOW.had to give her a kiss!! Are there any of my old mates from 130 det 2 on here? My crew chief John Ireland .you here?? Just joined here, what a great site! Time goes by fast and it’s great to connect with old and new friends. God bless!
May 3, 2007 at 1:05 am |
Correction.Tom Ireland!!
May 18, 2007 at 3:18 pm |
Hi, Was an AQ 58-61 first in VQ2 at Rota 58 and 59 (flew ECM), then VAH 7 at Sanford, detached to VAH1 for Med cruise 1960. Cracked a few windshields removing those LARGE computers! But the hardest was working in the tail area on the gun control equipment. Had so many flight hours at Rota yhat VAH-7 people wanted me to fly in A3s had to correct that as my hours were in P4M and P2V
May 30, 2007 at 4:28 am |
Hey guys,
I was checking out your site, and man is it good. I served with VQ-1 on Guam from 1976-1980. Pulled boat dets on the Coral Sea and the Ranger with a stint in Cubi Point in the middle. Sure do miss this plane! So many stories to tell, not enough time. Wish all well.
May 30, 2007 at 11:21 am |
very vice site, keep it up
May 31, 2007 at 12:03 am |
Stationed with VQ-2 Rota December 1970 to July 1975, As an AQ flew with the EA3B as EW operator, Looking to hook up with AT1 Dave King and some of the gang from those days.
June 4, 2007 at 8:28 pm |
Hi Jim. Photos i received. Thanks
June 7, 2007 at 4:00 pm |
Was in Heavy 10 detachment aboard Forrestal during the 67 disaster. Instead of going home we flew to the Med and finished a cruise aboard Saratoga. Served as Ships Company aboard USS Midway 1963-65. She is now a well managed museum in San Diego. Toured her last week and was pleased to see that she had a nicely restored Whale on the flight deck. Retired in 1975. VAH-10, VAQ-308, VAQ-1020.
June 26, 2007 at 12:14 am |
I was wondering if anyone remembered my Grandfather, John McIlmoil? He was an A3 pilot with VQ1 in ‘58-? He was in Guam for a good portion of his flying days.
Thanks,
July 8, 2007 at 2:51 am |
Hi, was just looking around and ran across Grant Looney’s name. Hey Grant , I haven’t heard from you since the 60s. Hope you are well and hope you check this site again, I know I will. I was an ATN3 with VAH2 aboard Coral Sea in 1960.
July 16, 2007 at 3:24 pm |
I was a spook before I was a seabee. Iflew with VQ1 during the xmas bombings in ‘72. Our OIC with the det was Lcdr Gamrath. When I ran across this site, I thought it might be a good way to get in touch with the guys I flew with. My roommate and friend Gary Nelson stayed on as a spook, and I lost contact with him. It would be nice to hear how he’s doing. My tour with VQ1 was one of the high points of my life. Being carrier qualified on EA3B’s was one hell of an experience. We even managed to trap on the Hancock, being low on fuel. It looked pretty small from my vantage point. Anyway, you old VQ1 spooks give me a holler if you read this. And for those who served in VQ2, Lt. Don baumer is alive and well in Modesto, California. For me, life was too busy out there, so I moved to Jay, Oklahoma two years ago. I look forward to hearing from you oldtimers.
July 17, 2007 at 2:25 am |
this message is actually for jared mcilmoil. just wanted to point out the same last name. i have never met another mcilmoil other than my family members, and i googled mcilmoil and this site came up. drop me an email ifyou wanna chat!
- alison
July 17, 2007 at 10:25 am |
Attended the all RVAH reunion in Key West in June. It was great.
I worked on the A3 while in RVAH-3 in Key West during 75-77.
July 25, 2007 at 10:02 pm |
Question for Whalers: Can anyone give me directions to National Vigilance Park from I95 (coming from the the north). I’m taking my dad (Lcdr Frank Mudgett, VQ-1) on a trip to Pensacola from NH in September, via RV and I’d like him to see the EA-3B there.
As always, I love this site.
Regards,
Stephen
AQ with VF-33, back in the late ’70’s to early ’80s
July 29, 2007 at 9:27 pm |
I served in vap-62 jax fl. what a great plane(1965-1969) was a plane captain 3rd seat.
July 31, 2007 at 4:48 pm |
I am a plank owner of Heavy 2 and made three trips to the far east.I flew with our CO Captain Sayler and our maintenance office LCDR Bolt. On one deployment when the Tyconderoga was laid up in Alameda we had to go aboard the MIdway for about 6 weeks. The MIdway is now in San Diego maritime museum and they just recently loaded an A3 on the flight deck. I sure looks good and brings back some memories. I live in the San Diego area and dont get aroound much anymore. I dont know of any more of the originals that are active. I went to the reunion in Taho and enjoyed that byts my traveling days are just about over.
July 31, 2007 at 10:07 pm |
The plane in front of the Q in Rota was PR-5 when it was in Guam. I watched as it was the last A-3 to touch the Island of Guam. I would have been on the boondoggle to Rota that turned into a 15,000 mile party but I had to go get married (It stuck too). The Photo of the Whale where all you can make out is the outline with the sun coming through the cockpit is of this bird! I burned up a whole roll of film and this is the only picture that came out alright as I had the aperture set wrong. That Photo has floated around for almost twenty years and now we have a chance to bring this baby home! I’m in, and I’ll donate as much time as I can when she arrives in Bama! Party on Whalers, Big ol Head
August 13, 2007 at 6:24 pm |
I haven’t been on this site for a while but I like to drop by and say howdy ever so often and leave a sea story. Even though I never made it to sea I have a few. I have a new E-Mail address it will be in the guest book if by some chance remembers me. I remember a lot of faces from Heavy 10 (10/68-3/70) but I can’t remember names to most of them. I remember a 1st or 2nd class P/O named Beatty from “69″ who asked me to make coffee once I said I ain’t in the coffee mess and I said “no”. He implied that I should make it. Since I was only an ASH-3 I was obedient. I don’t recall how I made it but they all said, never ask Myers to make it again. I recall another Myers on the flight line in “69′ who wanted to be an optician. Another gungho by the book lifer 1st class(named ?) he had curly blond hair a short guy. During change of command he made another guy on the line (an AN) get a hair cut 3-4 times before he said was ok. A guy who married a local girl from Coupville, ha drove a sharp black 40 Ford coup. Another guy who drove a black 58 Chevy with a chrome chain steering wheel. Gary Lees who had a white 65 Impala, who said he usually had to put it on auto pilot coming back from the bar. And Cecil and friend who still owe me $20 they borrowed to gamble. I remember the car rental on the base, and not needing any credit card, only money to rent one for the whole weekend. Thats all I have to say about that. Richard W. Myers; former ASH-3
August 17, 2007 at 2:32 am |
My father, Thomas Boulton, was an A3D pilot who died on May 14, 1957 on the Bon Homme Richard. I’d be interested in hearing fom anyone who knew him or was there that day.
Thanks
August 30, 2007 at 4:58 am |
Dear George Thornhill, Yes their is still a few of us still above ground. I remember Cdr Bolt well . Flew with him several times. He was a great pilot. Is he still kicking..? Made the cruise on the Tico. in 57. I was the AE2 that kept em running on that one. I was called Wilky then. Also made the far easter with the Midway in59. I retired from the Navy in 1975. Worked at NADEP jax. till retiring again in 1998. I reside here in Orange Pk. Fl…….Jim Wilkins
September 4, 2007 at 8:49 pm |
Jared McIlmoil , I worked with your Grandfather in the 80’s when he was a techrep for Douglas in VAQ-34.
Nathan Swapp
September 7, 2007 at 7:55 pm |
Hi Guys
I am looking for a former 3rd seater Donald E. Cox. AME-2 or 3. He was from Ill. I beleive he flew in the AD-3 off of Midway Island. I served with him in 1962-63 in VF-141 @ Miramar,NAS. Then again at VC-10 in Gitmo, Cuba, in 1969-70. Anyone knowing his where abouts, have him contact me @ marrick2×2@yahoo.com or 901.359.0631. thanks.
Ireally enjoy the “sea Stories”
September 9, 2007 at 3:06 am |
My father, Charles Hodgate, was a pilot of A3’s who was killed in a crash in Jan. 1961. I don’t know which unit he was with, but he was based in Sanford, FL. I did find, just this evening, that one of the A3’s he’d piloted (albeit for only 2.5 hrs) is on display in Pensacola. I’d be interested in hearing from anyone out there who was stationed with him – I really don’t have much information, other than family stories and a few old naval aviation publications that included him. If you have any info, you can contact me at legolas0917@yahoo.com. Thanks much!
September 12, 2007 at 12:23 am |
I just realize I typed the wrong year – is was 1962, not 1961.
September 17, 2007 at 9:33 pm |
Al and Andy,
Thank you for keeping the WHALE alive…nice job on the new web page.
September 25, 2007 at 1:47 pm |
Just found the website. I was stationed at NAS Alameda with VAQ-308 from 76 – 79. (AE 2) Lots of friends and fond memories of those days and planes. Flew as a Plane Capt
I will keep this site on my favorites list.
September 29, 2007 at 6:09 am |
Hi Steve Berg, good to hear from you. I was ADJ with VAH-8, VAW-13, VAQ-130 out of Whidbey & Alameda. Served on USS Midway, & USS Coral Sea (always in power plants shop). After this 10 yrs. spent 12 yrs with helicopters on east coast. Thanks to these fine shipmates for their service & my memories spent with you. May God bless you !
October 1, 2007 at 1:37 am |
I want to leave a note about Dick Russell, a navigator on A3Ds who flew off the Constellation. Made three tours, I believe, at Yankee Station.
I don’t know if anyone here knew Dick, but when he left the Navy he went with the CIA. Dick had a stroke several years ago and spent the rest of his life in a nursing him in Northern Virginia. He couldn’t move and could barely speak, but he decided to study military history. A team of readers (I was one) shared the job of reading to him from his personal library of military history. I had the Sunday afternoon shift.
Dick had a ready wit and an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of warfare. He bravely endured the indignities of his condition, living on a feeding tube year after year, and stuck to his program of self-education. Pictures of A3Ds, yearbooks from the Constellation, and other memorabilia connected him to his Navy days.
Dick recently died. His readers are having a memorial service for him tomorrow night.
A good, brave man. Maybe someone on this board will remember him.
Charlie Kennedy
Washington, DC
October 10, 2007 at 2:56 am |
I was in VAQ-130 det 4 from 1970-1972 CVAN-65 AND 61 WESTPACS. WHILE IN THE P.I. I was hurt and medivaced to the states and lost touch with my friends. I would love to hear from anybody that might remember me. THANKS, Jeff Hill
October 11, 2007 at 1:43 am |
I don’t see any Happy Heavy 10, folks i know. Joined VAH-10 June of 64, was there August 64, when we wouldn’t take it any more. I was AE-3, did a med cruse on USS Rosevelt CVA-42, and then the west pac, 66,67. I was on the flight deck the morning Oriskine burned. I beleave John McCain flew off Rosevelt after the fire, any one rember him? It’s been so long ago. CMdr. Ralston, AE-1 Gridley, my wife took care of your kids, Jimmey T Wagoner is gone good guy, we keep in touch with his wife. AE-1 Leotta, had the smartest kid i ever knew, AE-3 Berry Klivens, wasn’t a place we couldn’t get too, I would set on his sholders, and change out an 85 lb battery in the nose of that plane. I qualified crewman, but just flew maintance flights, just before i got out, cmdr. Von Hindey took me up to change out some compass parts in the air. I got sick and had no bag, so 2nd seat gave me his new pair of flight gloves, I filled it and hung it in the map drawer, changed out the black box and returned green, and the brunt of some laughter. I had a good time in 10, and the Navy, i would do it all over again.
Bob Spinks AE-3 VAH-10
October 14, 2007 at 7:41 pm |
I was at VAQ-33 in Key West from 1985-88, and have been looking for Bill Ruth (AVCM). Has anyone seen or heard from him lately? I sure would love to know what he is up to these days. Of all the people I knew while on active duty, he is probably one of the most memorable.
October 22, 2007 at 4:29 pm |
Recently the Oceans 2007 Conference was held in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Honorable BJ Penn, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (I&E) was here as one of the Keynote Speakers. It was my pleasure to have flown with Mr. Penn when we were both in VAH-10 and onboard the USS Shangri-la. Mr. Penn ( Lcdr at the time ), ADJC Joe Jones and myself formed one of the five crews assinged to VAH-10 Det 38 during 1970. I had the honor of being one of the Committee Chairs for the Conference and hosted Mr. Penn and his Aide while they were here. Aside from the requirements of the Conference Mr. Penn and I spent time talking about the folks and situations we remembered from our days in VAH-10. Lots of laughs and some frowns during these rememberances. It was a pleasure to have Secretary Penn here for the Conference and I am looking forward to seeing him again the next time I am DC.
November 11, 2007 at 4:48 pm |
While I was Passing through Mojave last weekend. Took a Airport Tour to see the 4 Whales sitting out there. One of them I ordered Parts for in VAQ-34 from 88-90. It was a ERA-3B. They all looked like they had recently been moved. “Dirt marks on the tires”. They look like they could fly with little help. Anyone know anything about the future of these 4? The people at Mojave Airport didn’t know anything
November 20, 2007 at 4:39 pm |
Looking for old VAH-2 shipmates from 1957-1960 and VAH-123 from 1960 to 1962. Can be reached at mafitzwater@yahoo.com or POBox 3546 Sequim, WA 98382
I have both cruise books from VAH-2 and some pictures of shipmates and A3D’s from cruise.
December 3, 2007 at 10:02 pm |
Hi Mike,
Boy this will test your memory. Do you remember me in VAH 123. You can own up to knowing me as I promise not to tell any (well not too many) stories about you.
How have you been? I was surprised to see your post on the A3 site. I was also surprised to see that you are back up here in Washington. I’m still here. I married an Anacortes girl and when I retired..we stayed here.
Drop me a line if you want. My e-mail address is wbh16@comcast.net
Take care.
Will
December 19, 2007 at 6:46 pm |
Jim Brannon!
Gosh good to see you are still around
post back and I will give you my email
after many years in other states we are back in Decatur, AL
December 28, 2007 at 5:29 pm |
My name is Don Deal and I was at NAS ALAMEDA NARU(VAQ-130?), AN A-3 TRAINING SQUADRON from late 1974-77 . Is there anyone here that was there or knows of anyone from that era?
January 2, 2008 at 4:30 pm |
don deal. I was in that squadron till 1971. You might try dan britton d.l.britten(or britton)@comcast.net. We had a reunion last october and he had alot of info.
January 2, 2008 at 7:14 pm |
Has anyone else seen the Whale’s cameo appearance in the new movie “National Treasure: Book of Secrets”? They appear in a scene filmed in a hangar (I assume it’s Raytheon’s). It looks like they have old BH75 and BH77 from PMTC Point Mugu. I thought my wife was gonna have to stuff a sock in my mouth when I spotted them!
January 4, 2008 at 3:46 pm |
Mike: Sure did spot them…best part of the movie.
January 5, 2008 at 1:08 am |
I am so excited that I found this website.
I was a CT-2 in 1967-1970 attached to VQ-2 flying A-3’s in and out of Rota and at various times off the Saratoga, America, Roosevelt and Kennedy. I would love to hear from some of my former mates. All the best to all of you. PH
January 6, 2008 at 12:28 am |
I was a CTI with Fleet Support/VQ-1 Danang, Cubi, NCSP, and all the ships at sea.
I absolutely noticed tha A3’s in National Treasure. I about jumped out of seat, but my wife restrained me.
A happy and prosperous new year to everyone!
January 10, 2008 at 5:40 pm |
I am looking for anyone who may have known Louis (Mac) McDaniel. Also known as Pappy, I believe aboard the Oriskany. He was a navigator/bomardier on A’3s. He was stationed out of NAS Whidbey Island 57-60 and 62-66. Thanks a bunch. This has been a real great site to visit. I will freguent it a lot.
January 12, 2008 at 4:05 am |
Ray Murphy (The Flight Jacket King).
Just recently got online again and read your post re: Asst Sec Nav BJ Penn. Would live to have his e-mail address. I’ll never forget our cruise on the “Shang”. Just reviewed the photos in the 70 cruisebook. Lots of memories especially returning from night “BarCap” missions in bad weather and no radar with weak ARC-27’s.
Those were the days.
January 13, 2008 at 6:11 am |
In reply to Kate McDaniel (1/10/08). I served with Mac (and flew with him on occasion) on the oriskany in 1965. I have wondered about him for some time. It gets downright tough to find shipmates after so many years.
January 13, 2008 at 6:14 am |
see my last message-Kate McDaniel
January 17, 2008 at 1:56 am |
for kate mcdaniel. my email is tombstone446@yahoo if you wish to contact me
January 17, 2008 at 3:15 pm |
Found this web site chat room. I’ll give it a try. I served with VQ 2 from May 1965 through July 1967. Lcdr Lawrence O Connor, Pilot, took me flying off the America one day, asked me if I wanted to do it all the time. The rest is history. Wow what a thrill to be a PC in the “Whale”. Flew 58 missions over Vietnam with Cdr, R.W. Arn, some of them in PR 5. Moved on then came back in 1977 to help reopen the FRS/FRAMP when it was transferred to VAQ 33. Up graded and taught the Power Plant, Fuel System and Bleed Air System lessons till July of 1981. Lots of memories and fun. Started out as Seaman Recruit Murray and retired 28 years later as Master Chief Murray, Command Master Chief NAS Oceana
January 21, 2008 at 12:23 pm |
You might be interested, there’s an A-3 in Disney’s new 2008 NATIONAL TREASURE movie, sitting in a hanger. I think it’s an EW version. Beautiful old bird, but too antique for what they intend it to represent!
I’m an ex-USN dentist with “The Corps.” Semper Float; GRIFF
January 23, 2008 at 8:44 am |
Just dropped by to say howdy. I haven’t written here in a while. If anyone was on the flight line of Heavy 10 from 1/69 -3/70 you might remember the guy incharge of the support equipment. That was me, I was the one who never passed the Navy drivers license. Once for not putting on my seatbelt, I turned the front wheels without moving in order to pull out of thr space. The instructer acted like I was going to wear out the tires doing that. Finally they gave up on me getting it. It kept me from being duty driver. I drove the equipment any way. The only thing I didn’t do was tow aircraft around, though I helped as a spotter a few times. I don’t remember any names with faces on the line except for Cooper, short stocky with blonde hair and glasses. He was so proud when he finally got his prescription flight glasses. Never forget the guy who would let the Mexican bean farts, the guy who had a 67 Firebird, and Cecil, tall slim with dark hair who still owes me $20 he and another guy borrowed to play poker and never payed back. Oh and Flynn a smaller guy with a “large Irish temper” when he was not sober. I remember trying to install a drag chute with Flynn, I was on my back pushing it in with my feet, my Friday night fun time at the OCH tavern kicked back in. We had an interesting time, after several minutes he got mad and went back to the line shack. I don’t remember if the chute ever got installed. I will never forget ordering pizza when working on the weekends on the line, it was very good,except you could get enough grease off of it to fry eggs. If you remember me say howdy sometime rmyers2098@yahoo.com. Well see ya dudes. Richard aka Wally former ASH-3
January 25, 2008 at 3:27 am |
For Kate McDaniel regarding “Pappy” McDaniel. I was in Heavy 8 from August 57 thru June 60. We had a “Pappy” McDaniel although the first name doesn’t come to mind so it could be only coincidence. As I remember in ‘57 he was the oldest Airman in the squadron and probably the Wing. If I remember right, he had broken service. Had been in the military got out and was out for several years before reenlisting just under the age limit for his age with prior service.
January 25, 2008 at 3:37 am |
Sorry Kate, the Pappy I spoke of wasn’t your Dad. Dug out my cruise books and found Louis McDaniel was an AE1 that I made cruises with on the Lexington and Midway. The memory gets a bit dim after 50 years.
Must have had two McDaniels and in the Navy at the time most enlisted over age 35 or so were “Pops” or “Pappy” and occasionally somewhat less respectful terms. Sorry about the messup and hope you can get better info from other persons.
February 8, 2008 at 8:32 pm |
VAH-4 1958-1960 Det. Delta USS Hancock CVA -19 two cruses. Wish I could do it over. Had sme good times
February 14, 2008 at 11:28 pm |
Hello Whalers!
Lets see… VAH 123 1961-1964 and VAQ(K) 308 1970-1975
I remember flight line mid-watches wearing everything I was issued, standing in the exhaust of an NC-7 ground power unit to warm up, drinking very old galley coffee issued by the P.O. of the watch, and still being COLD! Can’t beat that Puget Sound wind!
Retired in 1985 as AECS.
February 18, 2008 at 12:43 am |
I was a VQ-2 Seval who flew with Larry Conner and Hugh Havlick to WestPac in support of VQ-1 ops out of Cubi Pt. I flew a few missions with Larry in A-3 #146457 which is now in Rota and, hopefully, moved to the states as a memorial to A-3’s. We flew a few hope off USS INdependance and some in/out of Da Nang and Cubi Pt. The A-3 was a very reliabe platform for ELINT Recce and we all loved to fly in her. Hope the old bird makes it back to the USA soon.
February 22, 2008 at 9:57 pm |
I was in VAH-1 out of Sanford Fla.I was in the Power Plants shop,with Chief Ritchey,Chief Gay.I made the 1st,2nd,3rd Med cruises on the Independence,CVA-62.I was tranferred to VAV-11,extended for the Cuban Crisis,left the Navy Feb 1963.I retired from The Army Nat’l Guard Jan 1998 SFC, AH-1 Cobra Mech. Any Heavy One Tigers out there feel free to e-mail me. howmarkritz1@verizon.net I noticed Grant Looney an AQ made the 1st cruise with VAH-1,I couldn’t bring up his e-mail address.
God Bless,Take Care
February 25, 2008 at 11:46 am |
It’s gonna be a sad day when this happens…..
In an recent article (see below) written by Navy Times Staff Writer Mr. Zachary M. Peterson, Mr. Peterson made an outrageously insensitive remark calling our proud ship USS FORRESTAL the, “FORREST Fire.” In extreme poor taste Mr. Peterson fails to think how proud the men an women that served aboard FORRESTAL are of their ship. Mr. Peterson does not take into account the tragic fire and explosions of 29 July 1967 that claimed the lives of 134 of our shipmates, nor the 161 who were injured, some with life lasting effect. Mr. Peterson fails to think of the sacrifice made by the Wives, Mothers, Fathers, Brothers, Sisters, Sons, and Daughters of those departed and injured men. Mr. Peterson fails to take into account the extreme sacrifice made by an additional 142 Officers and enlisted men made during FORRESTAL’s 38 year history. Those of us who on 29 July 1967 fought the fire, smoke, toxic fumes, searched for survivors, and saved FORRESTAL feel this type of reporting is uncalled for by an American newspaper, and find it incomprehensible that a Staff reporter for an American Military newspaper would use such language.
Here is the e-mail address for letters to the Editor of Navy Times: navylet@navytimes.com
KEN KILLMEYER, HISTORIAN
USS FORRESTAL Association, Inc.
Aboard FORRESTAL 29 July 1967
Navy sink list includes Forrestal, destroyers – Navy News, opinions, editorials, news from Iraq, photos, reports – Navy Times
March 2, 2008 at 9:32 pm |
I finished my reserve time at VAQ-1020 for a few years 1975 to 1978 at NAS Alameda I was an ADJ 3 out on the line.
Found this site and got reintrested again
March 5, 2008 at 10:05 pm |
Joe Jones -
Yep, Chief, those were the days. To tell the truth; even a lousy day flying with you and Mr. Penn was a good day as far as I was concerned. Also – I still have access to some Leather Flight Jackets if you are interested.
Ray Murphy
AWC USN/Ret
March 18, 2008 at 8:28 pm |
When I take my dog for a walk my thoughts drift back to more exciting days, and I usually focus on where I was exactly 50 years ago. I joined Heavy Nine in August 1956, went to B/N school at HATU, and the first A3Ds finally arrived in April 1957, when I got five flights. I must acknowledge that the A3D was a lot more fun than the AJ-2. In just a couple of months we found ourselves at Guantanamo preparing to land on a carrier for the first time. I’d like to emphasize this point for you old-timers–neither the pilot, me, or the Third-crewman had ever been on a carrier before. From 20,000 feet the Saratoga looked just like a postage stamp. It would become quite a challenge! Thinking back, why did the Navy assign so many old “Plane Commanders” to such a demanding job? At any rate, there were setbacks, and we were to lose two crews. But we got through Strikeback in the autumn, which took place west and north of Norway, took care of the Ranger shakedown cruise and ORI in the winter of 1957, and again embarked on the Saratoga on 3 January 1958 for a nine-month cruise to the Med. So, right about this time 50 years ago, the squadron was discovering the joys of Barcelona, Spain. For a time, everything seemed worthwhile; but there were more formidable challenges just up ahead. All in all, the A3D was a fine flying machine, honest, but in some circumstances unforgiving. However, at my age–75–it wiould be marvelous to take just one more flight from the deck of the legendary Saratoga. But wait, I seem to have lost my dog…
April 3, 2008 at 12:51 am |
served in VQ2 from 1968 to 1970 would like to hear those who served at that time
April 6, 2008 at 6:18 pm |
I served on the USS Bon Homme Richard CVA-31 from 68 to 71. I was a Boiler Tender or BT, if you will. When I was out of the fireroom, I loved to watch flight ops. And the Whale was one of my favorite to watch! But because the A-3 was so heavy, we hated it when one was launched. We had to jump up the steam for each one. And that meant bringing in extra burners and adding extra water to the boilers. That wasn’t so bad, but just after the cat shot, we’d have to back that all down.LOL
And as a Smoke Watch, up on the 0-7 level, we had to inform the boiler rooms that a Whale was about to be launched. And even with the sound powered phones on, it was LOUD when it spooled up the engines! So the Whale kept us busy for sure!
There was one onboard, called the “Killer Whale”. I was told it was because it had gotten in a “dog fight” with a fighter plane, and had gotten on the “6″ of that plane. Anybody know if that’s true?
Good luck to all, Steve Robinson BT-3
April 7, 2008 at 10:55 pm |
Kate McDaniel,
I was a BN with VAH 4 and flew with Det Golf on the Oriskany 63-64 with Louis McDaniel. He was a crewman navigator flying with another crew in our detachment (Det). IIRC, Mc flew with Lcdr. Hawley and Ltjg Ebers.
Go to the website, on the menu on the left side click on Flight Deck/Photos/page 3 and look at the 8th, tenth and twelfth picture. Mc is in the back row sixth from the left, dark blue dungaree shirt. I’m knelling in bottom row fourth from the right, sunglasses. The guys in the flight suits are from Det Echo on the Bon Homme Richard.
Two detachments at one place, in this case NAS Cubi Point, PI, was a rare occurrence. It was the only time in three years for me.
Frank Cogdell
Hollygreen@A3Skywarrior.Com
April 9, 2008 at 6:58 pm |
to the Med. So, right about this time 50 years ago, the squadron was discovering the joys of Barcelona, Spain. For a time, everything seemed worthwhile; but there were more formidable challenges just up ahead. All in all, the A3D was a fine flying machine, honest, but in some circumstances unforgiving. However, at my age–75–it wiould be marvelous to take just one more flight from the deck of the legendary Saratoga. But wait, I seem to have lost my dog…
May 1, 2008 at 2:59 am |
I was a Plane Captain at Pax River on A3D-1 130355, A3D-1Q 130361, and A3D-2Q 144855 have about 270 hours flight time. Was at Pax River Weapons Systems Test from Dec 1959-31 August 1962. I see the old 130361 is on outside display at the Pima County Air Museum, with the Weapons Systems “Dayglo orange W still on the Tail. Thanks to everybody responsable for this site.
May 10, 2008 at 1:30 am |
For: Jared McIlmoil
I know your grandfather, he is my uncle. drop me a line. cykornr@yahoo.com
Rick McIlmoil
May 30, 2008 at 4:50 pm |
I would love to hear from any VAQ-33 Firebirds vintage 1973 to 1976.
Hope all is well with everyone.
kane13mike@gmail.com
June 12, 2008 at 6:21 am |
I was a Plane Captain on the A-3 at Pt.Mugu from 1970 to Aug. 1973. I have seen one of the
A-3’s from Mugu flying out of Van Nuys, CA. several years ago. Bloodhound 71.
July 4, 2008 at 5:59 am |
does anyone remember ray d murphy? He was in a heavy attack squadron, and then went to rvah-1, he was xo then co in the mid 60s. my email is jandkalexander@earthlink.net
July 7, 2008 at 1:15 pm |
well done and useful content
July 9, 2008 at 12:39 am |
DOESE ANYONE KNOW WHO PLACED IN THE 1958 BOMBING DERBY IN SANFORD MY PIOLET WAS MCPHERSON BN PRUDEN I WAS3RD CEREWMAN WE REPRESENTED VAH 7
July 24, 2008 at 3:56 pm |
Attention all RVAH Shipmates! RVAHNAVY 2009 Reunion will be in Pensacola FL June 18 – 21. Go to RVAHNAVY.COM for details.
July 30, 2008 at 5:55 pm |
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
July 31, 2008 at 6:44 am |
See a few of my old shipmates from my days in VAQ-132 on our trips
to Vietnam on the Enterprise in 1968 and 1969.
August 29, 2008 at 1:44 pm |
I spent three years in VAH-123 as an AQ and plane captain. The name I most remember is Will Haney. Although I didn’t know it at the time, or fully appreciate the honor ov being a member of such a team, I now realize that those years were indeed wonderful. Its sad to note that the one A3 I remember fondly is 142404. Its a shame that it is not relegated to target practive at Pima. I did visit the bone yard in Yuma and was treated to an afternoon among the birds. Even the hydraulic fluid smells brought back memories.
August 30, 2008 at 4:39 am |
Hello fellow shipmates,
I served in the Royal Australian Navy as an Aircraft Handler (enlisted rating) on our last carrier HMAS Melbourne during the late 70’s.
I now collect ‘privately’ filmed carrier footage as a hobby as well as PLAT footage and other items filmed by Navy cameramen aboard carriers. I would like to swap copies of any carrier flying footage you may have, especially home video or PLAT film.
If you have any footage and are interested in sharing with a fellow ship mate, please reply and ask for my detailed swap list.
Regards JOE
j.kaposi@hotmail.com
SYDNEY AUSTRALIA.
Member of Tailhook Association since 1990, and an ANA member.
September 19, 2008 at 1:11 am |
I was Key west in 86 to 89was happy to find this site would like to talk to a few people who were there at the time,mrs. laton I remember you nice to see this place.I will be back
October 19, 2008 at 6:04 pm |
Looking for any photos of VAH-7 A3D’s from 1958 or 59.Interested in a/c 142643 nose number or any other markings
October 21, 2008 at 7:10 pm |
Hello, my name is Richard Anton Mergl Jr., my father is Lt. Richard Anton
Mergl Sr. When I was 2yrs. old he and four other military personel were killed while perfoming a bombing training mission over Lake George in the town of Seville Florida Volusia county. He was attatched to heavy attack squardron VAH-7 of NAS Sanford Florida. They were all were presumed dead, the A-3D crashed into 8ft of water. Lt Cmdr. Weigles was the pilot
flying that day. When I was old enough to understand what happened to my daddy my mommy was to sick to expain anything to me, she past away when I was 15yrs old. Just recently I made a trip to Lake George and Sanford even Jacksonville hoping to find something about my father
and his crash. The only thing I found was 3 articles in the Sanford Herald
at the Sanford Museum. I couldn’t even print them because they had no printer for microfish. I only found 3 articles on the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th.
And found nothing in the paper about bodies or plane parts being taken out
of the water. All it said was a recovery team was sent from Jacksonville NAS. and that he crahed 5 miles east of Seville. Thats a whole lot of plane
for nothing to have come out of the water when the recovery team went out. I went to records and vital statictics and there is no death certificate.
He crashed April 22nd 1959, anyone if you can please help me.
July 22, 2009 at 8:09 pm |
Please conact me. Vah 7 !956-!959
October 26, 2009 at 1:58 am
john bill wardlaw adr5 vah 7 1957 -1960
October 26, 2009 at 1:52 am |
i was attached to vah 7 at the time of this accident,and i know that almost all of this aircraft was recovered and roughly reassembled in a hanger at nas sanford. i also recall that some body parts were recovered,but i don`t know this as a fact. i recall this wreckage in the hanger and and i remember it was hard to believe how badly this aircraft was destroyed. but as i remember only four people were aboard this aircraft!!the only name i recall is lt. cdr weigel an extreemly safety concerned pilot,although i think this accident was ruled as pilot error. lake george was drug for days after this accident. they were preforming a loft bombing mannuver when this happened, i hope this was informative….
October 24, 2008 at 1:50 am |
Hello, my name is Bob Taylor. I was a member of VAH-8 from 1957 until my discharge 7/31/60. I was deployed on the Lexington from June, 1958 until December, 1959. I was a parachute rigger third class. After the Lexington cruise, I went through navigation school and earned my “Air Crewman wings.” I was also promoted to parachute rigger 2nd class.
Lt. cmdr. Fritz Smith was my pilot and Lt. jg. Proctor was the Bombardier. We were deployed on the Midway from late summer 1959 until early spring, 1960. I would like to hear from anyone from “Hatron eight” during those times. I would especially like to hear from Mr. Smith, the pilot and Mr. Proctor, the bombardier. I would also like to hear from Vernon Lass a parachute rigger 1st class in 1958.
September 11, 2009 at 6:21 pm |
Hi Bob,
Just found this web site..I was in heavy eight in air frames for 3 years..Went aboard Lexington in 58 with about a third of our outfit..Was with plane number 2 with Matt Dillon,Bailey and Holden and myself while we sailed the Formosa Straits for 44 days..Remember “Boulder” buzz Bores??Commander F.R. Fearnow was our C.O.I remember Lass-parachute rigger and also Mr. Proctor..I was discharged in june 1960 with a guy from Wisconsin named Bob Reinie..Did a lot of liberty in Bellingham Washington with Mike O’mara from Chicago and Gene Brown from Kansas..’m about a year late with this reply but just happened to hit on this web site..Take care..Dave
November 13, 2008 at 4:20 am |
I was a spook in VQ2 from 84-86. I was just watching National Treasure II, and there are 2 (TWO!) Whales in the hanger – look at the folded wings in the background. Love to know where that hanger is. Saw one in a small museum at the Oakland airport as well. Too many good memories to detail!
November 24, 2008 at 2:46 am |
I saw that in the movie too I couldn’t beleive 2 A3s in the hanger. I was a Crew Cheif in VQ2 90-92. I flew back with one of the A3s to Tuson. My Dad was a BN in heavy 11 in the early 60s. Great sight
December 18, 2008 at 9:57 pm |
To the family of John Mcilmoil: I knew your dad in guam when he ws a tech rep for VQ-1. I was an NFO in the squadron where I got close to 300 traps in the A-3 Skywarrior. He (your dad) was a kind and wonderful gentleman and a consummate pro. It was an honorand pleasure to have known him. I never knew what ever happened to him. I was there from Sep 1983-Oct 1986 and he often worked the Cubi Pt. det workup site. AAAAAAhhhhhhh, the good old days i will never forget and always treasure. I retired in 1999. Comments welcome please.
September 17, 2009 at 11:57 am |
Ralph…..good to see your name, which means your still kickin I guess…often wondered about you.
December 19, 2008 at 11:37 am |
Looking for info on my father. He was stationed in China Lake, Guam for two years, Da Nang 70′-71′. Squadron VQ-1. HeavyPhotoron 61. He flew in EA-3 Skywarrior. He recently suffered a major stroke. Wondering if any body knew him? Photos? Links?
Thanks,
Ryan
December 29, 2008 at 11:19 pm |
Great Site, is now on my Favorites list….I actually know one or two of those making comments. I was in The Heavies (VAH 4 1960/63, RVAH 123 1963/67) as an AQ, worked out of the ASB shop under Chief Clark also with AQ 2 Gene Hartley. Went through A School along with Joe Flood in 1957/58, I was saddened to hear he passed away not too long back. Would love to hear from any of the old crew….macsie@windstream.net
Hope all had a Merry Christmas and will prosper in the New Year
Mac
January 5, 2009 at 8:27 pm |
With sadness I must report that Captain Robert (Bob) LeRoy Skillen, USN, Ret. passed away in Bakersville, North Carolina on Friday, January 2nd, 2009 of cancer. He served in VAP 62 and was CO of VAP 61. He is remembered by his wife Mary Frances Plummer Skillen and children Elizabeth Skillen & Benjamin Vann Wilson, Katherine Skillen & Frank Louis D’Andrea, Robert Stewart Skillen & Alesia Bryant-Laws, and James McPherson & Robin Byrum Skillen.
Please notify any Vappers you know. I can email a copy of Mrs. Skillen’s memorial announcement to anyone who emails me with a request.
Deepest sympathy from fellow A3ers.
January 7, 2009 at 1:10 am |
Hey all, I’m lookin for some info on a EA-3 that crashed at Miramar late 80’s early 90′ it was from a reserve squadron they were doin flight deck practice on 24l any info would help
Thanks AC2 AW Holliman (honorably discharged)
January 7, 2009 at 1:26 am |
I am deeply saddened by the news that Bob Skillen passed away. I have very fond memories of the many hours I flew with him as his crewman; sometimes he made me wince a little, and sometimes I made him winch. And as he said to my wife several years ago, God we’re lucky to be alive with all the things that happened. He was an immensely skillful pilot and because of him I am the pilot and flight instructor I am today. When students ask who taught me to fly, I tell them “the best”; Bob was the best. Then there was his humor ….. but then those of you who had the pleasure of knowing him know what I am talking about.
January 7, 2009 at 1:34 am |
Frank,
Please email me a copy of Bob’s memorial prderby@verizon.net
January 7, 2009 at 8:04 pm |
The first time Bob Skillen took the throttles of an A-3 in his hand, I was sitting behind him. We have laughed together many times since, expressing our different recollections of the flight and the landing. Most recently while sitting on the front porch of the home he and his beautiful wife Mary built with their own hands on top of a mountain in their beloved Western North Carolina. Looking at the sweeping vista from his front porch, he said to me that there was only one thing he couldn’t see from there. When I asked what that was, he said “…my nearest neighbor.” Bob has moved-on now, but we can be sure he has moved-up. Our hearts go out to Mary, the love of his life…
Until we meet again.
January 16, 2009 at 1:35 am |
Hi all,
I was a member of the A3 crew at Pt. Mugu in ‘66. I worked on BT 75 144825 ‘Snoopy’ and all the other A3’s we had. I remember Harold, the civilian QC inspector . I worked nights with ‘Good Timin’ Johnny Adams and Wally Cheers.
Cmdr. Jackson used to pull negative ‘G’s and roll our planes in flight until we noticed that rivets were popping out of the vertical stabilizer.
Thanks for the site. This all brought back some wonderful memories of some great rides in the Skywarriors.
January 24, 2009 at 5:10 am |
I feel like a puppy after reading all the entries on this web site. I spent 3 years ships company on board the USS Oriskany(June 65-January 1967). I was released from active duty December 1967. I am the only person to be a plank holder in both 208 and 308. I returned to active duty in May 1970 and assigned to VAQ-308. My first meeting the A3 face to face though physically we didn’t have any assigned to us yet. I was an AK3 working for AK1 Ken Caver. In July 1970, I was transferred to VAQ-208, being the second person on station. Walt Phillips and I along with Lt. Don Mazy, as they say, we held down the fort till other the personnel started to arrive. LCDR Jim Jefferson, was our first OIC, as LCDR McDougal was the first OIC in 308. I don’t remember who our first CO was, but I keep thinking Howie Nickerson. I know Greg Bambo was the CO of 308.
Hey, all you reserve Whalers get off your __ and be counted.
I finally retired in 1987 after changing my rate with a rank for rank exchange and returning to sea duty.
Gbolis@aol.com
January 27, 2009 at 4:12 am |
My Daddy is ADJC (Ret) Bob Sanders. I know he was with VAH-8 and VAQ-130 (where he retired in 1976). He was also stationed at Beeville (1972), was on the Oriskany (67?). I think either 8 or 130 split from Alameda and went to Whidbey, but I can’t remember which, or when.
He’s not a computer guy but would love it if I could find some old buddies of his (Like Dan Eagle).
I’ve heard so many old sea stories sometimes I can’t remember what he’s told me and what I feel like I actually saw! He is truly my hero. When I was 9 I told him I would outrank him and he laughed at me. Three years ago I pinned on Senior Chief (AND as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate to boot!) and am now waiting for the Master Chief board to meet.
February 6, 2009 at 5:27 pm |
Sherry, was any of the info I sent to you helpful at all?
February 7, 2009 at 1:53 am |
George,
Where did you send it to? I didn’t get anything?
Sherry
February 7, 2009 at 10:21 pm |
Sherry, I sent it to the E-mail you had listed. I talked to Don Mazy last night for about two hours, he agrees with me that Nick Nickerson or Greg Bambo would be excellent contacts. They both have entries on this site. I know Nick at one point was the CO of VAQ-208 and Greg the CO 0f VAQ-308.
February 7, 2009 at 10:27 pm |
I don’t know if you all remrmber a pilot by the name of Clem? Don Mazy informed me that he had resently passed away.
February 22, 2009 at 10:56 pm |
Hello everyone. Served with VQ1, June 1968 to July 1970. Flew as pc on the whales.
February 28, 2009 at 2:02 pm |
I just found this site during some down time at work. I am a flight dispatcher for American Airlines in Ft. Worth, Texas. I went thru A-3
training as a newly caught Ensign at NARU, Alameda, in 1975. Went to
Rota and was in VQ-2 1976-79. Again flew whales in VAQ-33 from 1983-85,
and again 1987-90 when I retired. A year later, I attended the A-3 retirement ceremony in Key West in September of 1991. I had initially
wanted A-6’s out of VT-86, but quickly grew to love the A-3 and all it’s
beauty. Got ovr 150 traps with VQ-2, and flew off every carrier on active
duty at the time that came into the Med.
I still make the pilgrimage to Key West every August for opening day of
lobster season. Anyone out there want to own up to having a McDonnell
Douglas emblem off the control yoke of any of the A-3’s? Every A-3 I ever flew in was missing theirs. I felt they must have gone missing decades before by original flight crews. Anyone wanting to commisserate can email
me at gallbee46@netzero.net…..with fondest regards
March 5, 2009 at 1:56 am |
I was a CT with NCSP, Det Bravo, at DaNang in 1967 flying missions with VQ-1. I specifically remember the rocket attack on July 15 with many shipmates being wounded. I would like to hear from anyone who served at DaNang with VQ-1 or Det Bravo.
March 8, 2009 at 7:35 pm |
the heavy 13 asb shop meets every other year. We have found just about everyone and usually have a good turn out. Met last October in Tunica Miss. We think the next one will be in Branson Mi. Contact me for further details We would like to hear from you.
March 9, 2009 at 3:09 pm |
HELP PLEASE-
TRYING TO LOCATE CAPT. BILL DICKSON, FORMER CO NAS PENSACOLA, AND CAPT(?) HENRY SCHULTZ………..BOTH V Q-1 CREW MEMBERS WITH CAPT. MURPHY WRIGHT WHO IS NOW VERY SICK IN ALEXANDRIA, VA.
PLEASE PHONE DENNY DONAHUE 785 889 4195
THANKS
March 15, 2009 at 6:09 pm |
I’m currently working (volunteer) on the USS Hornet as a docent. We have a number of aircraft manuals but … alas … I let all of my A-3 NATOPS manuals slip through my fingers. That sucker is heavy when you are moving all over the country. Anyway, is there anyone out there who would like to ‘part’ with one.
trijet0@comcast.net
March 24, 2009 at 2:08 pm |
I was glad to find this site; I served from 1956-1960 as an AT2 and Gunner /Navigator at Whidbey Island NAS. Entered flight school from VAH-6 and transferred to VAH-4 after navigation and weapons Air-crewman graduation.
Deployed aboard the USS Lexington as to the Far East Tour in 1958-58.
Other Members I trained with were deployed aboard the Ranger with VAH-6 and on crew was lost near Subic Bay.
I had the experieance of Ditching over the side of the Lexington all three of our Crew survived; LCDR Grady and LTJG Johnston and myself. I still have fond memories of my service and am still actively employed.
Another of our crews was lost on take-off at Whidbey in 1960 after the siccessfull Cruise in 59.
Happy to read others folks experiencies.
Lynn
March 29, 2009 at 4:42 pm |
Patrick Branaman, contact me!!
jmoto69@yahoo.com
March 30, 2009 at 2:14 pm |
I was at VQ-2 from 90-93…. I’ll never forget the day they retired the Whale….
Pat Branaman was my roomate at the time… he got me through it with LOTS of Long Island Iced Teas.
Thanks Pat!
Chadericlindsey@gmail.com
Also there is a large group of us on Facebook these days too!
March 30, 2009 at 8:13 pm |
I’m still looking to find a little piece of an A3……say like…lower hatch emergency handle off pilot/T/C seat or whatever..anyone have an idea?
April 1, 2009 at 9:19 pm |
i remember when ellsworth went over the side i was also a 3rd crewman and was too dumb to be woried about having to ditch
April 2, 2009 at 5:29 am |
I have a tailhook from one of the old birds… it moves with me from desk to desk, always a centerpiece… wherever I go
April 2, 2009 at 11:15 pm |
sid humphreys, I say that we get ahold of Ron Woltman and if the Navy is going to shred up a Whale we ask that we be allowed to remove parts (with a donation to Navy/Marine Corps Relief) before it’s shredded.
I would have given my left nut to have been allowed to get the data plate (or rudder pedals or the yoke or the seat or the….) from 144846 before it was “disposed” of.
April 3, 2009 at 12:19 am |
Chad Lindsey, Pat was my good friend at VXE-6.
We were both loadmasters there.
On New Years eve afternoon in 1994 Pat was the loadmaster on one of VXE-6’s LC-130’s that crashed out in the boonies.
If you go to this webpage http://www.vaq34.com/vxe6/148319.htm you can see the damage to the Herc.
See the big gash right by the crew entrance door?
As a loadmaster we used to strap on a gunners belt and hand on to the seat stantion for take-offs and landings.
For this take-off they were having trouble getting the skis to ‘unstick” from the snow, they had blown a port main landing gear strut on landing, the runway had a slight uphill and there was a pretty good sized bump in the runway about midway.
One of the tricks to getting the nose ski to “unstick” is to move as much cargo and passengers as far aft in order to get the center of gravity as far aft as possible. (once you get the nose ski to unstick you pick up about 15 knots)
Pat had moved the cargo and passengers to the very back, then he went all the way to the back and strapped in.
As they went down the runway the nose started to come up but not unstick.
They hit the bump in the runway, the plane “bounced”, and with the main landing gear strut being blown out the port side dipped down far enough for the number one prop to contact the snow.
That ripped the prop off the engine, the prop went under the number 2 engine and propeller and went into the side of the aircraft, right where Pat would have been standing.
The rest of the squadron was at the New Years eve party, we were pretty shocked to hear what had happened, once we found out they were all right we started the party.
They were back in McMurdo and done with medical in time to come to the party!!
I’ll bet Pat still gets nightmares over that one.
Here’s a cool picture I took of Pat at the Rock Store (SoCal motorcycle hangout in the Malibu hills) back in 1994 with Arnold Schwarzenenegger.
http://www.vaq34.com/vxe6/vxeoae’s.htm
Pat rode his Harley and I rode my FZR1000.
April 3, 2009 at 12:33 am |
Messed up the URL.
Here’s a cool picture I took of Pat at the Rock Store (SoCal motorcycle hangout in the Malibu hills) back in 1994 with Arnold Schwarzenenegger.
http://www.vaq34.com/vxe6/vxeoaes.htm
April 3, 2009 at 12:38 am |
Wow Joe, that’s pretty cool.
Thank you for sharing!
I did an internet search on him… I know his mom lived in Illinois, and I have her (then) phone number around here somewhere. But I saw there was a newpaper article about him in Illinois, I couldn’t read the whole thing without paying for it, but the snippet it did let me read said he was having issues with “Gulf War Syndrome”
Man did they ever sweep that one under the rug. Anyways… I hope he’s doing ok.
April 3, 2009 at 3:46 pm |
Joe Hawkins…How do we get a hold of Ron? You have a great idea about the donations,etc! Imagine , selling pieces of “junk” A3’s! Great idea! Anyone else in the association know how this could happen? I still have my zeus button opener, flashlight,logbook, A3 “handy dandy for in flight info, our squadron (VAH II ) hat and scarf. I even have a bottle (empty) of Navy stock numbered issued BRANDY given to me by the flight surgeon after an accident. Now all I need is a piece of an A3. My crew left small square foot pieces of “603″ on a mountain top near Khania, Crete. My pilot< Jerry Knutson visited the site aday later and actually brought back my long screw driver that I left under my seat and it looked like a curled up pigs tail. Never knew what happen to it later.
April 3, 2009 at 4:47 pm |
sid humphreys –
I don’t have a contact number or email for Ron Woltman.
You might contact Al or Swish here on the board or you can call Raytheon FTO at Van Nuys and get in touch with him there.
April 21, 2009 at 2:45 am |
Hi Joe, Chad, I’m doing good I live in Iowa now.
I sent Joe H an Email.
pmbss396@msn.com
May 10, 2009 at 4:25 pm |
Just dropping a note to says a big thanks to this web site the a3skywarrior.com. My wife and I lost contact with two very good friends after we got out for one reason or another and within the last year and half, we have been contacted by both because of this site and are now in constant touch. What a great site and a great job that has been done on it. Keep up the good work and happy whaleing
Proud to have served
May 18, 2009 at 2:46 am |
Did i read a note from THE Joe Hawkins?????? I was in VQ1 72/75, then at Pt. Mugu, VAQ 34, & VAQ 33. Coyote is at Raytheon. Phone #805-493-2875. Anyone know the location or Orie Lester, kim Mesnard, Jim Henderson, Jim Deal
or Cdr Jim Andrews?? Take care everyone=== WHALES FOREVER=====
ANDY BARBRE
May 18, 2009 at 1:07 pm |
Thanks for the contact for Coyote. My one VAQ-33 pic taken from the belly of the Whale toward the flight deck (it actually survived Katrina) features, I believe, your smiling face.
Don’t remember Mad Dog Kelley?
May 18, 2009 at 3:48 pm |
MAD DOG!!! SURE I REMEMBER YOU. HOW ARE THINGS GOING? AS FAR AS I
KNOW, THE # FOR COYOTE IS STILL GOOD. DO YOU HAVE A COPY OF THE PHOTO YOU MENTIONED? WHERE ARE YOU LIVING, I AM IN ORANGE, CA, NEAR
ANGEL STADIUM. TAKE CARE == ANDY
May 18, 2009 at 7:31 pm |
The usual – divorced back in ‘94, remarried in 2001, wiped out by Katrina in 2005…
Send me an email and phone number to boroimbh@gmail.com and I will see if I can get that image scanned and sent sometime soon…and even call you sometime.
Lived in CA 13 times over the years…Gulf Coast of MS is much better (except for the catastrophic hurricanes).
May 19, 2009 at 2:26 am |
MAD DOG == YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS DID NOT WORK. TRIED 3 TIMES. HERE IS INFO………….. 714-743-5723 …….. a3bulldog@earthlink.net ……….
PO BOX 6628 ORANGE, CA 92863…….. THANKS, ANDY
May 21, 2009 at 6:21 pm |
I served in VQ-2 from September 1970 thru November 1973. Arrived in Rota a young, innocent country boy from Georgia, left with more sea stories and adventures than I can remember. Some of the best times I spent in the Navy were with VQ-2. We worked hard and played even harder. Learned a lot about teamwork, taking care of your shipmates, doing your job and accepting responsibility. Got my first cat shot and trap with LT Larry Bell on the JFK. Worked in supply and even worked on the flight deck as a checker on the Whales, loving every minute of it. I guess I was too young and dumb to realize the danger. I finally retired in May 1996 from the Naval Air Reserves as an AKC. Any former shipmates that want to chat just send me an email @ seadawg0167@netzero.com.
June 7, 2009 at 12:32 am |
I was in VAH-4 and remember when one of our planes crashed during tack off at NAS Whidbey in 1960. All three were killed. What’s interesting is that Hollywood make a movie about the widow of Lt Dick North (the bombadier) and her subsequent marrige to CWO Frank Beardsley. The movie called his, hers and ours starred Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda
June 17, 2009 at 10:11 pm |
My A3 decal has come through by catching the attention of an Old A3 driver by the name of VAN BURKHART. Lives in Houston and was real excited to hear about the Association !! He will probably be joing up soon.
June 20, 2009 at 11:40 pm |
I need to settle a friendly argument..I was with VAH 6 in 64′-65′ we MED CRUISED with the USSFORRESTAL…
Argument is…
One of us says there were JBDs on the flight deck
I say there weren’t any at that time…
They could of been installed later but I don’t remember any wwhile we were aboard
June 21, 2009 at 3:04 am |
JBD’s got bigger over time with the airplanes, but there is little doubt in my mind that the Forrestal had them. The Hornet (CV-12) has them … they rose vertically out of the flight deck and could only handle a centerline thrust airplane … but she had them. It seems to me that the JBD’s on the Oriskany (CVA-34) were not up to the task with the A-3 … but she had them. The jets hit the fleet well before the Forrestal was built. Actually, I am looking right now at a picture of AJ613, BUNO 138904, being launched from an unidentified carrier. The A-3 had no refueling probe … and had a tail turret, but the carrier had JBD’s … split.
June 21, 2009 at 11:41 am |
Thanks Mike…Imma go cry in my beer now
July 12, 2009 at 9:57 pm |
Hey all
I like Your website. It is very interesting. Do You have RSS I want to add to my favorites.
Let me know when it will be ready. Kee it UP.
see You Szczecin Hotele
July 22, 2009 at 2:35 am |
AMH-2 VAH-2 1960 -1964
Would like to hear from VAH-2 personnel from this era.
I’m retired and live close to Ocala, FL.
kdfeld@embarqmail.com
August 21, 2009 at 5:05 pm |
Still working as a docent volunteer on the USS Hornet Museum, and still looking for an A-3 tailhook point. Anyone have one of these guys rusting away in your garage, or being used as a very adequate door stop? Actually, we have an F-14 aboard, and that hookpoint is almost as big. Did you know that the empty weight of an F-14 is 42,000 pounds … that’s almost as much as the Whale! Ours were about 45,000 pounds empty, although some of the EA-3’s were in the forty-six plus range.
August 21, 2009 at 7:03 pm |
I would not be surprised if the ERA-3Bs weighed more than the EA-3s.
August 21, 2009 at 7:15 pm |
“I would not be surprised if the ERA-3Bs weighed more than the EA-3s.”
MadDog, I have no doubt that they did weigh more. But I don’t think the ERA-3’s deployed on aircraft carriers with a 50,000 pound max trap weight. I think it was Max Otto who took an EA-3 from VQ-1 way up in the North Pacific to land on a carrier doing ‘blue water ops’. Upon landing, the air boss read him the riot act and demanded to know how he got so critically low on fuel. He said, “well sir, I dumped (seven) thousand pounds to get down to max trap weight.” (;-)
August 21, 2009 at 7:55 pm |
What we were told was that we could not deploy on carriers because the internal equipment racks were not stressed for a cat shot and would have rocketed out of the tail on the cat stroke.
I had seven emergency field arrested landings in 2.5 years of flying the ERA-3B including a short field arrestment at Rosey Roads with broken nose wheel steering, minimal flaps and no brakes. Since I was in the belly of the Whale I was really glad the racks COULD take a trap.
September 3, 2009 at 2:29 pm |
My name is Dave Rossi, and I believe my recently deceased uncle, Navy Commander Edward C. Rossi may have piloted an A-3 in the early 60’s or late 50’s. He was stationed for a time at Quonset Naval Air Station in Quonset, Rhode Island, and am not sure if he was attached to one of the carriers Essex or Champlain that were tied up there.
Where would I begin to find out this information? He will be buried
at Arlington National Cemetary on Dec. 1st, and I’d like to add this
information to his memorial.
Sincerely,
Dave Rossi
evad@operamail.com
September 8, 2009 at 8:10 am |
I am attempting to find Al Ward. He and I was in VAP61 in ‘64-’65. I can’t remember where he worked…I was a personnelman. If anybody knows where he is I sure would like to know. I am available at skywarriorusa@yahoo.com or 503 356 1894. Thanks in advance for your help
September 10, 2009 at 8:18 pm |
Hi! I was surfing and found your blog post… nice! I love your blog.
Cheers! Sandra. R.
September 14, 2009 at 7:43 pm |
any one out there remember when heavy eight had the “golden Goddess”. I was with my buddy Bob Myers and a couple other guys in the Squadron duty office when about a dozen guys broke in the door ,dis obeyed a direct order from Mr. Wallacavage to leave..they grabbed me from behind and some guy and myself were rolling on the hangar bay floor.they shoved my buddy,who had wrapped himself around the statue ,out the window to a waiting car and took off with the statue..He managed to get out of the way before he was run over..That was not the way the statue was suppossed to be taken and no one knows what ever happened to it.Any body out there have the answer???
November 8, 2009 at 5:37 pm |
Hi Dave,
I recall stories of an incident happening in the early/mid 60s that may be what you are referring to. he tale included an Aircrewman named Flood and possibly Charlie Brown and an AQ named Snyder,all of VAH 4 fame. I knew Flood and later ask him about it over a beer down at the OHT and all he responded with was a grin, neither admitting nor denying.
I can be contacted at “macsie@windstream.net”
Mac
September 14, 2009 at 7:58 pm |
As a member of VAQ-208 and plank holder, I remember when it was hanging in our hanger for the longest time, up high in the overhead back in the early 70’s. I know there are one or two of our pilots and enlisted crew members involved in the obtaining of the statute can be located right on this web-site.
September 17, 2009 at 12:02 pm |
Spent a few years with the A-3 myself. Toured VQ-1 and did 4 westpacs with em. Made grreat friends and partied like I never knew how. Lotsa memories to tell when they stick me in the old folks home. Cant wait to tell em.
September 26, 2009 at 5:58 pm |
Anyone know how to read the last 2 posts???
September 26, 2009 at 9:11 pm |
Philip Tucker,
I think the language is BULGARIAN.I don’t know what the message is but I ran part of it through the internet.. Dave
November 9, 2009 at 2:37 pm |
Well, whatever it was, it was spam. Deep sixed it and modified the controls to keep a closer eye on that sort of thing.
A-3 Admin.
October 6, 2009 at 12:26 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 27, 2009 at 1:46 am |
have need to contact richard anton mergl jr.,inquiry dated 10/21/08 [#107]
October 28, 2009 at 2:31 pm |
Does anyone have a photograph of the ASB-1 or ASB-7 Bomb Director from the second-seat position? I can find photos of the 2P and KA3B second-seat consoles but not of the bomber.
November 8, 2009 at 6:13 pm |
Mike, I don’t have any pic’s of that but I do have a PDF file of the ASB-1, 1A Data Flow Chart, contact me and I’ll be glad to send you a copy.
Mac
November 9, 2009 at 8:53 pm
Please, I would like to have a copy.