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Name: Jack Kull Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-09-08 16:32:35 Comments: Seeking to locate pilots of Sandies 1-4 and 5 & 6 who recall 28 March 1968 incident involving unsuccessful extraction of a SF/SOG recon team in heavy contact near Tchepone, Laos. Nails 52, 56 and 24 were also involved. Jolly Greens 20 & 37 and Sandies 5 & 6 were scrambled from NKP to stand by for extraction attempt and Sandies 1-4 were diverted after Pony Express chopper was driven off by ground fire. Please respond via e-mail or phone at 703/352-2144. Many thanks! |
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Name: Lawrence Knoder Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bothell, Washington Time: 1999-08-31 01:46:17 Comments: While I was at Bien Hoa with Air America Pilatus Porters saw many A-1's and when in Laos during 71 flood was taken in jolly green to Udorn. Thanks for the site. Larry |
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Name: Jose Ma. Alexis Cruz Website: AeroScale Collectibles Referred by: From a Friend From: PHILIPPINES Time: 1999-08-24 09:36:00 Comments: Excellent and informative site. Thank you for providing such information to the general public. More power to you. |
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Name: Jim Doran Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: McHenry, IL Time: 1999-08-23 11:01:30 Comments: Was unable to e-mail Denny ? vis-a-vis Ed Taylor. LTJG Ed Taylor and I served together in VA-52 when I was an AO3. We cruised in USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14) as a component of Carrier Air Wing 5. Ed transferred to VA-152 Det Zulu a year or so later and was KIA teaching the VNAF to fly SPads. |
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Name: ex staff sergeant Mark Eyestone Website: n/a Referred by: Yahoo! From: Chicago suburbs Time: 1999-08-21 19:17:08 Comments: Hello to all you night shift maintenance weiners at NKP, working on those greasy old shot up A-1s. With up to 1/3 of the troops off, sick, on leave, on R&R, maintenance seemed like a very persoonal never ending task. Even though a legal post flight inspection took 8 hours, newly promoted staff sergeants would sign for as many as 4 or 5 post flights in one evening. If an A-1 was overdue, the Air Police would swoop down on the revetment with the aircraft records, and the wallets of the pilots and impound the forms until that aircraft came back, was found or was written off. Yes, it happened to me. Unfortuneatley, my pilots and their A-1E weere found upside down in a valley in Viet Nam, the victum of a lucky rifle shot from above; they were that low in a deep valley. Would love to hear from any maintenance types, especially Tex (crew chief 858), Jack, or even J.C. Contact me as follows: e-mail = istone@ix.netcom.com tel. = 815-455-2179 fax = 815-356-5439 |
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Name: Wm. Bryant Sewall Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Dallas/Galveston, Texas Time: 1999-08-17 19:14:42 Comments: Old Skyraider pilot (navy) |
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Name: Thomas L. Reise Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Friendship, WI Time: 1999-08-12 19:44:41 Comments: Retired U.S. Navy Commander who flew the AD-6 (A-1H) in Attack Squadron Forty Two (VA-42) Aug 57-Aug 61. |
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Name: ray Brown Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Washington State Time: 1999-08-12 16:11:18 Comments: I was a crew chief with the 40th ARRS from Jan 71 to Jan 72. I just finished listening to the audio tape of the shooting down of Jolly 71. I can't believe the emotions I am feeling right now. |
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Name: Gerassimos Vevis Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Greece Time: 1999-08-11 10:55:36 Comments: Hello to everyone, I will need your help. I am trying to gather information on Charlie Vass, a pilot of the Skyraider in Vietnam. At one point he was the pilot with the most missions in the Skyraider. He later climbed to the higher ranks in the USAF hierarchy. Any info would be greatly appreciated, flying carrer, stories, references, photos and any details on his life: is he still out there? Thanks in advance, Gerassimos |
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Name: Ralph Poore Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Escondido, Ca Time: 1999-07-31 19:25:21 Comments: Sure would enjoy hearing from my fellow Spad instructors at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, circa 1958-61. Until 1960, the Navy had training "units" in the Air Training Command. AD's (later A1's) were assigned to "Advanced Training Unit (ATU) 301. On 1 July, 1960, each unit became an established squadron, with ATU-301 changing it's designation to VT-30. In Navy lingo, "V" meant "heavier than air, and the "T" indicated a Training mission. ATU-301/VT-30 was the source of AD/A1 pilot training for the US Navy and foreign nations until it's disestablishment in the mid-60's. |
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Name: James Rooney Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: 4 Huntington Rd. Rocky Point NY 11778 Time: 1999-07-27 12:10:51 Comments: Enjoyed the site. My Dad was in the Navy from Nov 1955 till August of 1959 and flew AD5W's in VAW-12 and did a cruise on the Randolph in Sept. 1958 till March 1959. It has been interesting finding out about his plane. I have a couple pictures of the plane as well as an 8mm film converted to video of the carrier and task force as well as take-off, flying and approach to landing. If your interested for site get in touch. Yours truly; James Rooney father Edwin Rooney |
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Name: Ryan Hamilton Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Australia Time: 1999-07-26 01:37:20 Comments: What a great site!!! Could you please E-mail the following photo as it does not appear on the web site. Thanks An A-1E (135-202) from the 1st ACS with an Aussie flavor K 111935 USAF Where: Nahkon Phanom AB, Thailand When: 16 April 68 What: Side view of an A1E coming from a mission in support of Project Muscle Shoals. Photographer: Sgt Thomas F. Buhr, USAF |
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Name: Lt J C Black USNR-R Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: Winchester Va. Time: 1999-07-20 09:42:05 Comments: Flew Spads in VA 215 1962 to 1966 |
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Name: Jef Jaworski Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Washington, DC Time: 1999-07-11 13:54:29 Comments: I enjoy the site, this seems like a dedicated group. I am doing research on close-air-support aircraft, and was wondering if anyone would know where I could find the schematics and technical reports for the skyraider (any version) I would greatly appreciate the help. Jeff Jaworski |
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Name: Denny Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Seattle WA Time: 1999-06-30 22:17:33 Comments: In June of 1964 I was a flight instructor at Palo Alto Ca. One day a T-34A came in from Moffet Naval Air Station flown by a fellow that wished to get his civil flight instructors certificate. He was a Navy A-1 pilot on his way to Viet Nam. His name is Ed Taylor. I lost contact with Ed when his unit shipped out. Can anyone out there bring me up to date on Ed? |
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Name: FRANK VENTIMIGLIA Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: FT LAUDERDALE FLORIDA Time: 1999-06-28 20:18:35 Comments: X-BATCAT KORAT 1969-70 |
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Name: Dave Lester Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: FWB FL Time: 1999-06-06 15:59:02 Comments: Just revisiting a previously bookmarked place. |
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Name: john holt Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: little rock, arkansas Time: 1999-06-04 19:54:37 Comments: great web page. i was a 21st sos helicopter pilot at nkp 68-69. anyone of you spad guys know the whereabouts of General Edwin White former wing commander and A1 pilot at nkp. |
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Name: Lawrence C. Reid Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Fairfield, Connecticut Time: 1999-05-29 18:27:50 Comments: Great site for a great airplane and the great men who flew them! Thank you. It's an honor to visit. |
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Name: John Loiko Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Memphis,Tenn. Time: 1999-05-25 07:01:41 Comments: I was just an enlisted guy back in '58/'62 in Va-35 on the U.S.S.Saratoga.This sight is very interesting, brought back some memories. |
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Name: SSGT M. EYESTONE Website: n/a Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: NKP Thailand - 1st SOS Time: 1999-05-23 06:59:09 Comments: What about all the mechanics who got the pilots up into the air? They routinely spent 12 hour maitenance shifts in the dark, in the heat, in the monsoon rains, working with a weak flashlight in their third hand, their mouth. Is there any room in your association for mechanics? |
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Name: Tom Botkin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Stockbridge, GA Time: 1999-05-16 12:06:05 Comments: I just had an enjoyable hour looking at the pics, I'll be back to read later. I was a Navy type, a mech with a VP sqd. at Cubi and Utapao in 69-70 and never had the pleasure [today I'd say privilge] of being in country. The pic of the AD in the "musem" in VietNam is amusing, I wonder what would happen if they fired that thing mounted on the center line? Where it sits now it would probably take out a Coke warehouse and a BofA. This is a neat, clean informative site, thanks. Tom |
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Name: Robert Rice Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-05-15 13:25:40 Comments: Great Site, does anyone know if Clint Johnson is still around? he had a mig kill in the skyraider.please let me know thanks |
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Name: Chuck Ott Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Missoula, Montana Time: 1999-05-11 18:15:41 Comments: Hi all! I was a Recip Eng Tech ( 43251 ) in NKP, Ubon, and Udon in May 71 to May 72. I worked the phase docks in NKP and traveled with the Sandies a lot to various bases. After return to states I worked for Evergreen a few years on firebombers, B-17 and P2V. I later flew 12 years as a captain in firebombers and freight haulers,DC-3,CW-46, and L-18. Learned a lot form the Sandy Pilots and credit that with getting me through the fireseasons! Still have great memories from over there and of the people I had the pleasure of working with. Got to take Bernie Fisher's son for a fire run in a P2V several years ago out of Boise. Good to see the site and good luck to all of us out there! |
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Name: Kenneth E. Morrison Website: Referred by: From a Web Ring From: Sayre, Pa Time: 1999-05-11 14:23:57 Comments: Great web site dedicated to a great airplane and her pilots. I flew helicopters for the 57 AHC, Gladiators, based in Kontum from Oct 68 to Oct 69. We had the mission of inserting and hauling out LRRP teams in Laos and Cambodia. I always was glad to hear Sandy was on the close air support mission. Fast movers were nice to see too but it was the A-1 that could really put the shit on target. Special thanks to all the pilots who A-1's out of Pleiku, you were a God send many many times. "Push'em up set'em up roll'in in hot" was music to this Huey pilot's ears. Would like to hear from any Sandy pilots who worked the FOB missions. I have a few pictures of A-1's I could scan and submit. Where so I send them? Keep up the good work, Ken |
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Name: Danny Smith Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Sherman, Texas Time: 1999-05-09 16:17:31 Comments: I just happened across your great web sight. Fantastic!!! I served for two years in VA-52 and made two cruises to Viet Nam on board the USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14) between 1965-1967. Cdr. John Mape (Mapes Apes) was my first C.O. He was shot down on his last flight prior to our departure to the US. Cdr. Robert Worchesek was our next C.O. I recognize a few names in your guest book. Ens. Richey Hope, LTJG Porter Pierce and James Doran were all VA-52 guys. I was an AMS-3 and helped maintain the aircraft. I learned to fly after my discharge but always wondered what it was like to fly one of these awsome airplanes. 2700 horsepower.....WOW!!! Thanks for helping me to recall some fond memories. Hong Kong and Japan were fun too. (Anyone remember Top's bar in Hong Kong???) Good to hear from you guys. Thanks again for a great web site. Danny Smith |
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Name: Benny Shaffer Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: Ft. Worth, TX Time: 1999-05-08 04:17:28 Comments: I was a crew chief on a air America Huey flying out of Udorn we we rescued a A-1 pilot on the PDJ Laos. He had been shot down.I don't remember his name or where he was from. As we were going in his wingman was flying beside us tearing up ground with his 20mm. we landed as close as we could to the parachute and I jumped out & helped him to our Huey. I have a lot of respect for A-1 pilots. And the Skyraider is my all time favorite airplane. Great webb site. |
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Name: Allen Cates Website: Air America Association Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lafayette, LA Time: 1999-05-04 12:15:06 Comments: Hello, I personally picked up some of you guys in Laos. I also had my butt pulled out of the fire while some of you were bombing and strafing the area while performing other rescues. Many of us have experienced the same. I have linked your site to ours. Would you consider liking our site to yours as well? Thanks |
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Name: justin smith Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: australia Time: 1999-05-02 07:52:11 Comments: i didn't have the time to get through it all but i will return to visit one of my favourite aircraft. |
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Name: richard f. forbes Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: West Springfield, MA Time: 1999-04-23 17:46:11 Comments: I was a member of VAW-13 from Aug 63 to Nov 64. I was a Electronic Counter Measurers aircrewman. Our squadron flew the EA-1Fs. Would love to hear from any of the "Zappers" from that era. |
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Name: Richey G. Hope Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Hinsdale, Illinois Time: 1999-04-20 14:58:19 Comments: From the summer of 1966 to January 1968 I was the AIO with VA-52. The squadron switched to Intruders in the fall of 1967. I left the squadron and became an advisor on Army Advisory Team 86, Long An Province. In Vietnam I ran into Porter Pierce of VA-52 who was flying for Air America. Would like to hear from my old squadron mates! |
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Name: Bob O'Brien Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Seattle, Washington Time: 1999-04-17 17:00:48 Comments: I was in VA-196 from 1963 - 1965. I am looking for ship mates. Where are you?? |
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Name: Tom Risch Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Ohio Time: 1999-04-14 11:59:31 Comments: I was stationed at NKP 8-69 to 8-70. In aero repair/crash recovery. Operated Big Moe, and the Oshkosh, as well as the Chevy p/u w/ crash cart. Smsgt. Milsted and myself designed the little yellow tug turned pilot recoverer. Anybody out there remember any of this? Have pictures. |
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Name: LARRY MARTIN Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: SPRINGFIELD, VA. Time: 1999-04-06 12:46:31 Comments: I FLEW SKYRAIDERS FOR VAW-12 FROM 1956 THRU 1959. THE WORLDS BEST ACFT. I WOULD LIKE TO JOIN THE ASOCIATION. I ALSO HAVE SOME NAVY PICTURES THAT MIGHT BE OF INTEREST. |
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Name: Jack Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Wi Time: 1999-04-04 15:10:37 Comments: A wonderful site. I was Butterfly 44 in Laos in 1966. I was not able to get much out of 20A when I left, however, I did come across an original after action report involving Firefly 17/18 dated 23 Nov 66. We did in a lot of POL, buildings and troops. If FF17/18 are out there I will be more than happy to send you a copy of this report. Just give me a holler. Same goes for anyone else who worked with Butterfly 44 in 66. Would be happy to hear from you |
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Name: Bill Burdick Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Blandford MA Time: 1999-04-01 12:02:39 Comments: Outstanding Site!! I'm a former Marine (HMA-169) now ready to retire from the Mass ANG. Always had a soft spot for the "Spad" and now work the 2nd generation A-1. the A-10. Yup we still call them "Sandy's" when we do our CSAR. Matter of fact we were the 1st A-10 unit to utilize NVG's in Bosnia during Deliberate Force, trying to locate a couple Mirage guys that came out 2nd best. The Hog's a good jet for SAR but nothing can compare to the "RealSPAD" |
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Name: Phil Thibodeau Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Jacksonville,FL Time: 1999-03-27 10:26:05 Comments: Was looking for some good 3 views for modeling Phil in J'ville |
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Name: Lloyd B. Patrick, Jr. Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Mobile, AL Time: 1999-03-23 18:13:20 Comments: VA-35, 1957-1958. Perhaps we could get a compilation of the names of aviators who flew with the many squadrons over the years, at least for history's sake. But also to find old friends. |
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Name: Maurice Pillsbury Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: West Coast Time: 1999-03-22 18:29:16 Comments: I flew the AD Skyraider in two different Marine Corps squadrons at MCAS Opa Locka, Florida from May of 1956 until the fall of 1957, VMA 324 and VMA 333. I could possibly add some information to your records. |
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Name: Randy Brandt Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Burke, VA Time: 1999-03-15 19:29:44 Comments: On April 6, 1969, I was Dipper 01A (F-4D, 8TFW, Ubon)leading a strike against 13 AAA sites near Delta 42 in Laos. We were shot down on our first CBU-2 pass at 0020L. The Sandy's from NKP and Supper Jollys from Udorn started the CSAR at first light and we were pulled out by 0800. My heartfelt thanks to Don Dunaway and the other Sandys that enabled this Nite Owl to fly another day. |
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Name: Wayne Mutza Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Mequon, WI Time: 1999-03-14 21:06:19 Comments: Have been a Spad enthusiast for probably 30 years and finally got to be around them during a short stint as a VNAF advisor at Bieh Hoa AB in '71 - I was a US Army "rotorhead" working with VNAF Hueys. Great site - a real tribute to the AD/A-1. As an aviation writer, I'm researching the Spad for a book. Any suggestions on how to place a research ad - I'm just breaking into this computer stuff. Keep up the great work! |
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Name: Lewis Akins Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Amelia Is. , Fl. Time: 1999-03-14 07:11:40 Comments: Flew in VA176 66-67. With Delta for 30 yrs, flying MD 11,s |
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Name: DICK ALBRIGHT Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: FRAZIER PARK CA Time: 1999-03-10 10:39:37 Comments: WAS AN ANTI-SUB AIR-CONTROLLER IN "GUPPIES" (EA-1E / AD-5W) VAW-11 '62-'65. SAW YOUR PAGES AND PICS. LOVED IT. 2 WESTPAC CRUISES. LIKE NO OTHER. GOT OUR FEET WET ONLY ONCE. LOTS OF RECALL and PICs BEST TO YA! Dick Albright ("Lil' Dickie") |
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Name: Jeff Nash Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Colorado Springs, CO Time: 1999-03-10 08:50:43 Comments: Would appreciate if someone could tell me how I can contact Jimmy Kilbourne. Understand he was Sandy Lead during a night rescue attempt with Jolly 26 on Nov 9, 1967. Am researching the story behind the loss of JG 26. Thanks for your help. MSgt Jeff Nash |
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Name: FR Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-03-08 12:13:55 Comments: Great site!!!! And..... a toast gentelmen, to all crew members of Douglas Skyraider, to the dear, dead days that are gone but not beyond recall!! |
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Name: Alain Crosnier Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Chinon, Loire Valley in France Time: 1999-03-08 01:04:57 Comments: The unknown Skyraider spotted in Djibouti is BuAer 125741 on line with EAA 1/21 (Escadron d'Appui Aérien), was coded 21-LP (F-TFLP) and crash landed on 30/12/1970. This aircraft was refurbished upon its arrival in France by SFERMA in Bordeaux (SFERMA n° 86 on fin) and entered service with the Armée de l'Air on 25/07/61. Bravo for your site. Keep on the good work. Alain Crosnier Co-founder of AIR FAN magazine and now contributing editor and historian. |
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Name: Paul Gallagher Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Maryland Time: 1999-03-07 12:51:50 Comments: I loved your web site. I found it informative as well as very entertaining. thank you for all your hard work on it it shows. |
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Name: Bob Mitchell Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Time: 1999-03-06 21:43:20 Comments: I am a living example of the awesome firepower of an A1-E Skyraider coupled with the extraordinary flying skills of an aviator whom I have never met. I was flying a UH-1H Huey about to take my turn trying to resupply a firebase somewhere close to Bu Prang, RVN, in late 69 or early 70. There had already been three attempted flights in but they were all unsuccessful due to the intense enemy ground fire. The firebase was surrounded and they were out of small arms ammo and food. The other attempts had been made with UH-1C gunship coverage. We got a call on Guard from Spad 05 telling us that he would provide coverage if we would try the run. We started our approach and immediately started taking fire, suddenly the ground underneath me looked like it was being unzipped. I looked out my side window as I was on short final and saw a Skyraider at my altitude with full flaps working this magic with his 20mm. We were extremely low and very slow, I could not believe it. We got in, dropped our load for the Redle |
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Name: Jerry Tabrum Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Federal Way, WA Time: 1999-03-05 16:49:11 Comments: Byron, you deserve a big "attaboy" for creating this site and "making it happen." Aviation historians are just now realizing how important our aircraft was in the scheme of things during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The jets got the notoriety, but the Able Dogs (Spads) did the dirty work. Jerry Tabrum |
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Name: AEROMILTEC TECH INC. Website: USN/USAF AIRCREW LIFE SUPPORT EQUIPMENT Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Switzerland Time: 1999-03-05 16:07:33 Comments: This is the most exciting aircraft I ever saw, this website is one of the most exciting around. I flew many years in Israeli AF the A-4E,TA-4E and F-16D....I am currently an airline captain on MD-11,I live in Switzerland and I own a manufacturing company of USN/USAF/USMC Aircrew Life Support Equipment.....for those interested we have some A-4,A-1 and F-4 Life Support Equipment available beside the current US Government recent equipment lots. Please visit our web. Thank you for the opportunity to visit your Web and your honourable association. Capt Alex Kandel CEO AEROMILTEC INC. |
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Name: John Cody Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Gig Harbor, WA. Time: 1999-03-03 21:57:21 Comments: Re: SEABIRD 02 SAR and mission tape of Jolly Green 71 downed by MIG 21. I flew Jollies with the 40th ARRS out of Udorn, Thailand. Crews of JG 71,72,70 & 77 were all squadron members. Capt Holly Bell, Aircraft Commander of JG 71, was my hootch-mate and a best friend. A most tragic day. I will never forget it. I was the Aircraft Commander of either JG 70 or 77 on that mission. JG 70 and 77 joined the SAR effort from our alert position at Lima 98 in the Barrel Roll. We were preparing to take gas from the HC-130 tanker (King 03)as soon as the HH3's finished refueling when the MIG engaged the SAR force, pickled his missile, and downed JG 71. JG 71 and 72, as I recall, were TDY out of NKP where we rotated the alert of two HH-53 crews from our home base in Udorn. I had no idea I could jink a chopper that hard and that fast in the trees! I would like to hear from fellow Jollies and Sandies who participated in the mission. Nice site guys. Thanks for preserving the memory of this last call of our brave comrades-in-arms who crewed Jolly Green 71 on that tragic day, January 28, 1970. |
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Name: Garry Adams Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Australai Time: 1999-02-26 01:43:15 Comments: Fantastic web site, especially the audio tapes, well done ! I served in Vietnam in 69/70 as an Infantryman in the Australian Army....now I travel back to Vietnam 3 to 4 times a year..there is a Skyraider which has pride of place in what was called the War Crimes museum in Saigon..it is only been placed there recently..very good condition, USAF with the number 39674 painted on the tail. My compliments to all who flew these fine aircraft, brave men one and all. |
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Name: Bob Erner Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Mancos, Colorado Time: 1999-02-25 14:27:36 Comments: I served on the U.S.S. Ticonderoga CVA 14 from '57-'59 on the flight deck. I loved the AD's, but they could be a dangerous plane to work around. Unfortunately, I saw several deck accidents in which ships crew were injured or killed. Not untill I was out of active service and older did I realize what a dangerous place a flight deck is, but aslo how exhilarating Naval avaiation is. Even though I did not fly a skyraider, I am honored to have been, and now be, associated with those who did |
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Name: Peter Steehouwer Website: Airshow Action Photo Gallery Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: the Netherlands Time: 1999-02-19 23:57:57 Comments: GREAT !! I very nice site, I love the A-1 great plane !, Keep up the good work |
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Name: Steve Whitton Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-02-15 22:32:56 Comments: Can anybody provide details about a Skyraider pilot by the name of Fallon (FireFly 27). I would like to pass this onto his surviving family members. It was July 4, 1969, and Fallon was flying low over Laos' hot, steamy Plain of Jars. Suddenly, troops peppered his A-1 Skyrider with gunfire, sending his plane plunging toward the thick jungle below. He bailed out, tumbling rapidly into the tall grass of a 4,500-foot ravine. As quickly as he landed, enemy troops hiding on the ridges above began to descend into the valley in search of their prey. Rattled, but safe, Fallon signaled his wingman - `Firefly 27' - by radio that he was alive. For the complete story, click: http://tribune-review.com/features/nmia526.html |
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Name: Clifton L. Sutherland TSGT USAFRes Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Federal Way, WA Time: 1999-02-15 12:29:45 Comments: Hey Folks, Several months ago, 6 I think, I sent you an application form and a check for dues. I received nothing but an invite to to the reunion. Could you check your files and see if anything was sent to me. C.L.Sutherland 35920 22nd Place So. Apt "A" Federal Way, WA 98003 Thanks |
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Name: Chuck Bailey Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Redding, CA Time: 1999-02-14 22:35:25 Comments: I was at Bien Hoe when some of your photos were taken. I was with VA152 det Zulu. We were there training VNAF maintance crews on the A1 Skyraider and also the Air Force once in a while because the Skyraider was new to them also. Thank you for the trip down memory lane... |
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Name: Randy Smedley Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Navarre Beach, Fl Time: 1999-02-12 17:19:59 Comments: Hi guy's, I have kind of fallen off of the scope as far as staying in touch with the association. Last reunion I attended was in 93 at Ft Walton. I would like to get back into the association asap. Will forward mailing info & dues to the Randolph AFB address & I look forward to the reunion in Oct. Shiny side up, Randy Smedley Hobo, Spad 67,68 |
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Name: frank c. bonansinga Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Indio Hills CA Time: 1999-02-09 19:02:29 Comments: Bryon, congratulations on your excellent article. I flew the Skyraider then called AbleDog in 1950 through 55 for 1,776 hours in the Navy. The AD5N was not near the airplane the AD1-4 models were and was actually a different airplane but due to funding restrictions back then, it was called a Skyraider.. If you ever flew on off the carrier, The wide bodied AD5s flew more like a TBM than the orginal Skyraider. I flew the Onmark B26 making night drops near the pass in 67 then later flew photo/recce out of Udorn from 67 to 73 for Air America. I know well, what good work the FACs and Sandys did as I flew from in the barrel roll, to the triangle, over the pass, Tchepone, Paksae, into the Alternate, all over Lima and surrounding places. Before that in out of Victor. But what I did nothing compared to what you, my Navy friends and the Army Facs did. Or what the Air America choppers did picking up many downed US airmen, well before there was any military support. I would like to pay and become an associate member, to help you maintain this fine website so the future generations might know more of what some men did back then when asked or volunteered to serve their country. frank bonansinga |
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Name: Greg Hatch Website: Referred by: Tripod From: Danbury, Ct. Time: 1999-02-08 20:08:19 Comments: Always loved the A-1's! Served aboard the Hancock and later the Coral Sea (Such a shame she is no longer.) Was with VA- 115 and later VA-52. Years in service 66-70. Anyone from these two or NAS Whidbey Island or Lemoore, please get in touch! |
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Name: richard sheldon Website: Referred by: Net Search From: denver area Time: 1999-02-08 18:49:41 Comments: efforts to e-mail many of your guestbook people all showed "damaged file", "unable to send". Effort to contact your webmaster just produces the microsoft "bonk". |
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Name: Master Sgt Jeffrey Nash, USAF Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Colorado Springs, CO Time: 1999-02-07 20:52:18 Comments: Great site about a great group of people. I would be interested in hearing from any Sandy pilots who participated in a night rescue of a SF team on or about Nov 9, 1967. An HH-3, call sign Jolly 26, was lost that night. The helo AC, Capt Gerald Young, was later rescued and awarded the Medal of Honor. All others were killed. I wear a POW/MIA bracelet with the name of the PJ on that helo, Sgt Larry W. Maysey. My research shows that two pairs of Sandys were on station on 9 Nov, one pair at 0330 and the other at 0700. Does this action jog anybody's memory? If so, I would greatly appreciate hearing from you with any personal recollections. Thanks for your help! |
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Name: duke nguyen Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Cypress CA Time: 1999-02-07 15:10:16 Comments: Just wanted to let you know that I have enjoyed your page very much! It has been my fantasy to be a VNAFpilot flying Skyraider. I had gathered with friends at the end of the runway watching skyraider landing at Tan Son Nhut when we were high school students. I would like to see if you have some more pictures of VNAF Skyraiders. Again, Best Wishes and Thank you. |
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Name: John Craig Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Time: 1999-02-01 20:32:42 Comments: sent an email with details, just signing the guest book now, great website!!! |
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Name: Harry Chrisman Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Beaver, PA Time: 1999-01-28 19:55:45 Comments: Doing some research for my Air War College paper on Linebacker II (1972) and the search engine led me here. I was stationed at NKP 1971-1972 as an electronics technician on ATC RADAR. I heard Sandys on the radio every day and watched them take off and land. NKP at that time looked like a vintage aircraft field with EC-47's, C-119 Gunships, A-1's and those souped up OV-10's and Jolly Greens. Brings back some good memories. A-1 a great airplane and real valuable in the SAR role. Thanks for the site. |
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Name: James W. Doran Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: McHenry, IL Time: 1999-01-22 13:00:06 Comments: Great site. I was an AO3 in VA-52 aboard USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14) in Tonkin Gulf. I'm also one of the "storytellers" in Rosario Rosa's book. Retired as CWO4 in 1983. Spad drivers KIA page brought back memories. John C. Mape was our Skipper when he went in after a SAM hit. Loved by the troops, we were official known as the Knight Riders, but preferred what the Air Wing Commander called us - "Mape's Apes". Marlow Madsen was NOT well liked by the troops when I was in the squadron - but that was a typical attitude towards an ENS who thought he knew more than his Chief. I understand that he became better liked as his Chief retrained him. E.D. Taylor wasn't with VA-52 when he was killed, but was training the VNAF with VA-152 Det Zulu when he was killed. Taylor took a cold cat off the Ticonderoga with a full load of ordnance and external fuel. Taylor had the throttle firewalled for takeoff, dumped the fuel tanks and bombs and got the gear up just short of hitting the water. He brought the Spad back. In closing, I'd just like to say that after a career in A-1's, A-4's, H-1's, A-6's, and F-14's - that it's still true: JETS ARE FOR KIDS! Jim Doran Superintendent Veterans Assistance Commission of Mchenry County, IL |
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Name: Jim PAULL Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Orange TX Time: 1999-01-20 11:30:38 Comments: Was assigned to VC-33, NAS Atlantic City NJ JUN '50 til JUL '52. Type A/C were AD 3Q, AD 4N and AD-4NL Prior to service in VC-33 was assigned to VC-4 (also NAS Atlantic City) from FEB '49 til JUN '50. Prior to break-up in JUN '50, VC-4 was largest squadron in the Navy with 167 plus A/C and approx 1400 personnel. Type A/C were AD 1's thru 4, TBM's, AM1 Marlin (Had 1), F6F, F4U 5NL. F2H, F8F, and 1 SNB for the Skipper. CO of VC-4 was CAPT J A Ruddy and XO was CDR R W Mehle. CAPT Ruddy was replaced by C T Boothe (Not sure of spelling). CO of VC-33 was CDR R M Lindsey and XO was LCDR H J Badger. |
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Name: Vladimír Cereba Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-01-18 04:56:32 Comments: Hallo from Czech Republic. |
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Name: Tim Cislo Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ewa Beach, Hawaii Time: 1999-01-15 18:58:26 Comments: Love the site!! My dad (Lou Cislo) flew the XBT2D and I had an uncle - Jimmy Savage - killed in Korea flying AD's. Anyone familiar with them? |
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Name: Capt Cliff Johns, USN RET Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Greenville, SC Time: 1999-01-15 18:12:28 Comments: How do I contribute? 2700 hours & Silver Star in Spads. |
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Name: Frank Arico Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Erie, PA Time: 1999-01-14 19:26:37 Comments: I was stationed at NKP with the crash recovery team (aerorepair and reclaimation) Nov 69-70. |
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Name: Lucius Day Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Denver Colo area Time: 1999-01-14 07:51:23 Comments: Flew "Robinson" EA-1F's (VAW-13) Cubi, Kittyhawk, Ranger, Saigon |
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Name: Dan Vancil Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: E. St. Louis, Il Time: 1999-01-08 10:52:46 Comments: AT1(AC) EA-1F crewman in VAW/VAQ-33 Det 14 aboard USS Ticonderoga 1968. AN Carmean was kind enough to take my flight the night she was belly-flopped back aboard. Thanks to AD1 Chip Straka and all the guys, she was back in the air in, as I remember, 3 days (minus the APS-31 radome). She flew a lot better without the dome. |
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Name: Gilbert Daniel Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: WA Time: 1999-01-04 22:00:28 Comments: I started off with "AD's" in 1950 at Boca Chica, FAWTULant and last worked on one in 1961while attached to VA-196 at Moffet Field. I was an AO. |
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Name: ED FANCHER Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: GULF BREEZE FL.32561 Time: 1999-01-03 17:41:45 Comments: Served 556 Redhorse June 67- May 68 working on airfield lighting for that year. Noticed on ramp outside airfield lighting vault two A1E'S with Moonmaid from Dick Tracy painted on cowl with what appeared to be a large spotlite under wing. Never knew what mission was then and had not thought about it for 30 years until looking at pictures I had taken of aircraft from vault.Thought NKP might have been test site for something new at the time. Would like to know if anyone has information. Thanks, Ed Fancher AF14854300 efanche@bellsouth.net |
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Name: Danny Summers Website: none Referred by: Yahoo! From: Rexburg, Idaho Time: 1999-01-02 00:34:07 Comments: looking to buy a skyraider. have T-6 &TBM Avenger now.don't have the money together now so just window shoping & dreaming.it's a great warbird hope i get to fly one some day.glad i found your web site.very interesting. thanks!!! |
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Name: F.J. Chris Miller Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Winter Park Fl. 32792-4343 Time: 1999-01-01 17:07:09 Comments: Liked your Mag. article In "Flight Journal " Oct. ' 98 |
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Name: C. D. MILLER Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: OVIEDO FL. Time: 1998-12-29 05:34:37 Comments: AS IN RECORD # 56 I ALSO WAS IN VA-35 AT NAS CECIL FIELD ALONG WITH MR. GLENN BROWN I WAS A AM, I ALSO BELEVE THAT THE OL AD WAS AS A FINE OF PLANE THAT YOU COULD FIND IT WAS A PLEASURE TO WORK ON,VA-35 HAD ITS 60TH. REUNION BACK IN 1991 AT NORFOLK WHICH I DID ATTEND,AND LTJG DOUG BELL WAS THERE I DID ASK ABOUT THE WHEELS UP LANDING AT CECIL. |
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Name: Jim Salter Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Olney, Maryland Time: 1998-12-27 03:57:15 Comments: VA-115 Arabs, '64-'66. I've been here before but couldn't remember whether I'd signed in. Great page. |
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Name: Rodger Leffler Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Kaniva, vic, Aust Time: 1998-12-20 18:56:46 Comments: Was in vn 68 and 69 with D co 1/35 .A 1's did some good work for us a couple of times south of Ben Het. Many thanks |
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Name: Jack Taber (Toro 91C) Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Aerial Rocket Artillery....ARA Time: 1998-12-19 15:09:23 Comments: Finally....... As an Army Cobra pilot flying outta the Channel 69 area, we owed great debts to u all for being there when it meant the most as we straddled the fence with CCN and its gaggles of Kingbees and slicks of all flavors from the 101st. We gathered a large chunk of ARA pilots at the annual VHPA gathering last summer in Ft Worth and we will gather over the 4th of July in Nashville....music to our ears.... "Spad....push um up, set um up, go internal....".....and all we had was that lousy old Cobra.... 4/77 ARA website is at: http://www.ameritech.net/users/cnurse/aerialarty.htm Check us out and by all means.....we want to hear from any and all that flew with us on CCN from 1968-1972. Jack Taber Toro 91C Dragon 23B |
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Name: Gary Zwonitzer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Columbia, Mo Time: 1998-12-17 14:56:10 Comments: Flew in AD5Ns(A1E?) and AD5Qs from 1956-59 as crew member in VA(AW)33 and VAW33 Atlantic City, NJ and Quonset Point, RI. Am trying to find out if any of the AD5N's are still flying. I have seen an AD5Q at the Pensacola Naval Air Museum. |
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Name: Lorrie Scally Website: COL Gregory Inman Barras Referred by: Net Search From: Stamford, CT Time: 1998-12-10 05:20:17 Comments: I am trying to locate anyone who remembers Greg Barras. He was KIA on Dec. 18, 1968, about 20 miles west of the Mu Gia Pass, and his remains were finally identified last week. I wore his MIA bracelet for many years and have waited almost 30 years for closure. I have a web page dedicated to him and would like to add personal rememberances to it. Thank you. |
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Name: Jim Dugan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Jersey Time: 1998-12-09 21:46:14 Comments: This is a great site. Served with VA(AW)33 from 58--61. Made 2 Med cruises on the Saratoga and Independence.Great memories of the AD5N and AD5Q. Would love to hear from anybody during that timeframe.Maybe exchange pictures of the aircraft. |
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Name: Harrie White ADR3 VAW-33 Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Alexandria, Va. Time: 1998-12-09 20:54:13 Comments: Great site for a great airframe! I plane captained and worked in the engine build-up shop at Quonset Point in the mid 60's. 3350's rock! |
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Name: Shane B. Murphy Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Coppell, TX 75019 Time: 1998-12-09 20:00:20 Comments: VC-33 1952-55 |
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Name: Mario Bertinelli Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Parma - Italy Time: 1998-12-07 00:25:37 Comments: Spad deserves a big amount of friends, and this site could be a real place to join all of them. Well done, guys!!! |
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Name: Tri Pazoureck Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Denton, Texas Time: 1998-12-03 11:24:13 Comments: My grandfather, who I never met, is pictured in the class pic's. LtCol William L. Kieffer, KIA 2/11/70. |
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Name: Bill England Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bangor, Maine Time: 1998-11-30 02:49:43 Comments: I flew ADs with the Marines in Korea, VMA121, MAG 12. How come no Marine sites?? |
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Name: Michael Gene Leininger Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Sacramento, Ca Time: 1998-11-28 21:27:21 Comments: Ex-Navy pilot. VA-176. Vietnam, 1966. |
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Name: James Mancuso Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Perry, NY Time: 1998-11-26 14:29:50 Comments: My dad, Anthony P. Mancuso, who flew the Skyraider asked me to find out about the AD6 model and did VA45 fly this version while he was in this squadron. Was the designation of this aircraft later changed? Anyone with information about this Skyraider model and the Navy squadrons that flew it please contact me at the e-mail address shown with this entry asap. Thank you. |
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Name: Jerry G. Prigmore Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Fresno, CA, home of the C.A.N.G. 144th FW Fighting Falcons Time: 1998-11-20 22:52:57 Comments: Sorry! My first submittal had "private" checked by mistake! Let's try again. From a 29 year old wuz-gonna-be-a-Air Force pilot (but never wuz), and proud son of a Vietnam vet. My dad was an Army combat engineer in the 299th Engineer Battalion, stationed in Dak To and Pleiku from about September 1966 to September 1967. He's always liked Skyraiders, and even took some photos of them in action (from a worm's-eye view, of course). His interest has rubbed off on me over the years, and for Christmas I'm building him a model of one loitering above the jungle (to be called, what else, "Sandy On Station"). I've been looking for reference material, and tell you what, this site is unbelievable. Your photo gallery is a treasure chest and I can't wait to show the photos to Dad. In fact, NE 504 of VA-65, Mar '58, is now my wallpaper. I'd like to take this opportunity to say hats off to all the Spad drivers out there. You definitely have my respect and admiration. Thanks |
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Name: Tim Heck Website: Aviation Archeology Referred by: From a Friend From: Zionsville, IN Time: 1998-11-20 17:42:51 Comments: Hello once more, I found a reference to an A-1 in Hanoi and one in Saigon. THe one in Siagon is at the WAr Remnants Museum, and bears the USAF serial of 39674. (It has a multiple rocket launcher hanging in the center station, not safe!!) The one in Hanoi is coded 513/5. I don't know if they are the same plane (Hanois was seen in '93). A full list of A-1's is availible in the March 1998 Issue of FlyPast Magazine. Tim |
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Name: Tim Heck Website: Aviation Archeology Referred by: From a Friend From: Zionsville, IN Time: 1998-11-20 17:40:31 Comments: Hello Folks, My father was a nuclear weapons officer on the USS Ranger during Vietnam. He was in W Division, and was on station with Deiter Dengler. My question involves stateside crashes of the spad, does anybody know of any? I have a webpage dealing with aviation archeology and am looking for crash sites of historic and military aircraft to visit. Thanks for your service, Tim |
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Name: Russ O'Neal Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Clinton TWP, MI. Time: 1998-11-04 12:00:12 Comments: I am looking for the pilots of Sandy 5 and 6 involved in the rescue of F105 Pilot, Capt. Bill Sparks, Marlin Lead, on 5 Nov 67 along with Jolly 37 and 56. The SAR took place in North Viet Nam, north of the Red River, 047/89 from channel 97 (21*23'N,104*46'E) at 0950Z. While Jolly 37 was approching the survivor Mig Cap called BOGIES in the area. Almost immediatly they were called low and away. Shortly after begnning departure Sandy 6, who was escorting Jolly 56 out of the area called Migs and reported that he was being fired upon. I was the Flight Engineer on Jolly 37. I am writting a narrative of this SAR for the Jolly Green Web Page JOLLYGREEN.COM and would like to talk to the Pilots of Sandy 5 and 6. I have been in contact with the survivor Bill Sparks and have obtained Jolly 37's Mission Narrative plus other documents from the Air Force Historical Agency, Bolling Green AFB. IF any one knows who Sandy 5 and 6 are and how to contact them, please have them contact me. Thanks Russ O'Neal |
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Name: Duane Null Website: Referred by: Net Search From: California Time: 1998-11-03 21:39:02 Comments: Stationed at Udorn, 67-68, weapons loader (jammer driver) 602nd. Great site. |
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Name: Phil Oestricher Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Fort Worth, TX Time: 1998-11-03 20:11:01 Comments: Great website! These aircraft type associations are a good idea. I was lucky enough to get to fly quite a few of the great Naval combat types (AD, A3D, A4D, F9F, FJ, F4D, F8U) of a few decades ago and enjoy the flying stories that these websites such as yours bring out. Keep up the good work |
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Name: James Mancuso Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Perry, NY Time: 1998-10-31 08:59:50 Comments: So far, the Sky Raider Association has been very helpful in my effort to find my father's squadron mates in VA45, at least we found what became of Bull Edwards. My dad, Anthony Mancuso asked me to search out Foster Udell and Commander Goodwin, both from VA45 based at Jacksonville Naval Air Station during the late 1950s-early 1960s. My dad might wish to get in touch with Mr. Udell. If anyone can shed any light on this, please get back to me when you can. Thank you very much. |
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Name: Kevin Walsh Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: Denver, CO. Time: 1998-10-29 17:21:47 Comments: I'm arranging an event at the Wings Over the Rockies Museum in Denver, Colorado. I'm looking for any pilots who would be willing to speak to our Military History/Wargaming club and museum visitors. The event is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 27,1999. If you or someone you know would be interested in participating please contact me as soon as possible. Thanks. |
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Name: Mike Dunn Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: PHX Time: 1998-10-29 17:19:40 Comments: I met a Vietnam vet wannabe who insists some 1950's A-1Es were turbo prop. Anybody know if this is true?And while I'm on the air, didn't that A-1E on staticdisplay at NKP ('73-'74) have the main drop tankon backwards? |
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Name: Orin Humphries Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lynnwood, WA Time: 1998-10-29 06:15:34 Comments: I found you in the Air and Space article. How's chances of all of us pooling our resources and buying a couple of Spads from Chad or Sudan? |
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Name: Craig Saunders Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Pittsburgh Pa Time: 1998-10-28 14:11:26 Comments: This is a very nice web site. Done by good people. |
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Name: Robert Rice Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-10-25 21:44:50 Comments: Warbirds of America squadron #14 in topeka ks is looking for a mark 20 mod 4 gunsight that was used on A-1s and on AC-47s we are restoring an AC-47 and need the gunsight to help complete the cockpit, we are planning on flying it in 1999. thanks |
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Name: chris cahill Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: cincinnati, oh Time: 1998-10-21 10:16:45 Comments: hello skyraider fans, I am an aircraft and armor model builder here in cincinnati. i recently built Lt. W Patton's legendary skyraider, and I have fallen in love with these aircraft. I have plans to build a USAF skyraider from one of the special operation squadrons. if there are any old pilots out there in the cincinnati area who would want to share a store or show me some old photos I would be thrilled. Maybe someday when I finish college and save some money I might restore one of these aircraft. thanks, chris |
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Name: Joe Schimmelpfennig Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Hampton,Conn. U.S.A. Time: 1998-10-17 18:51:24 Comments: Found web site in magazine Flight Journal given to me by a co-worker. I was stationed At Udorn RTAFB and TDY for one month to NKP as an armorer (AFSC 46250) assigned to the 602 Fighter squadron C, from Sept 66 to July 67. The Super Spad was quite the aircraft. I got to fly right seat to NKP and back to Udorn. Very enjoyable flight, pilot allowed me some stick time too. Unfortunately he is on the list of A.F. pilots who was lost in Southeast Asia on a SAR mission out of NKP while my load crew and I were assigned TDY there. |
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Name: James Mancuso Website: Referred by: AOL From: Perry, NY Time: 1998-10-17 15:07:42 Comments: I am looking for information on VA45 for my father, Anthony P Mancuso, who flew in it during 1956 and the following gentlemen connected with this squadron: Lt CDR "Bull" Edwards, Foster Eudell, and a gentleman named Tenike(first name not known) and others in this squadron during this period as my father would like to know what has become of his shipmates in this squadron.If possible, he might want to hear from those fellow aviators who are still around from this squadron. Please get back to me when you get an opportunity. Thank you. |
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Name: Anders Berlin Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: SWEDEN Time: 1998-10-17 11:36:57 Comments: I WOULD LIKE TO BE UPDATED OF THE LATEST SUBJECTS OF SKYRAIDER A1. I AM COLLECTING DIFFERENT VERSIONS OF VIETNAM WARBIRDS IN SCALE 1/72 PLASTIC MODELS AND I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE PICTURES OF THEM. |
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Name: Randal W McFarlane Website: Referred by: Net Search From: AUSTRALIA Time: 1998-10-16 21:02:04 Comments: Greetings from Down Under.....I am a former RAAF officer and an avid A-1 supporter since I saw them operating in the South East Asian War Games. I am a collector of warbirds and own an ex-USAF 0-1G and 0-2A both of which flew in SEA. I have also owned an ex-Raven AT-28D and I am now on the lookout for an A-1. As they say gotta have one...... |
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Name: Gary Smith Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Louisiana/Now in Arizona Time: 1998-10-14 16:01:06 Comments: Dad (H. Lewis Smith) flew "A1-E's" in '65 & '66 out of NKP and Udorn. Love the site! |
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Name: Maistret Website: Referred by: Net Search From: France Time: 1998-10-13 11:11:15 Comments: I was a french pilot on AD4NA Skyraider, during Algerian war,my scadron was "Aures Nemencha",after during a secrets missions in 1968 at chad,and to Djiboutie (Somalia's republic)always with my scadron 1/21 "Aures Nemencha". Your association is wonderfull see you later and "La chasse Bordel!!!!!!!!!!" |
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Name: Tom Milligan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Portland, OR Time: 1998-10-09 16:55:53 Comments: I'm a retired USAF officer who flew both a FAC tour as a Sundog over An Loc and an F-111 tour out of Takhli. Loved working when the A-1 were near. I was the FAC for the SAR for the Stinger that was shot down over An Loc. I was flying on his wing when he took the hit, directed him clear of the area, luanched the SAR force, yelled at him to get his crew to bail out and watched him go in. Great working with the Sandy and Jolly Green teams out of Bien Hoa on that SAR. Was also great to have a Sandy flight come escort me back into Viet Nam when I got in trouble in Cambodia. Great flying with you. Tom Milligan |
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Name: Larry Lyle Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Moline, Illinois Time: 1998-10-03 21:59:19 Comments: Iserved in the USN from 1960-64 and loved these planes. I was an AE3 and am now an R/C pilot and am going to build a scale model of the Skyraider with a wingspan of 100 inches. I will be looking for a good color scheme later. |
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Name: Chuck Frederick Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Freeport, Bahamas Time: 1998-09-29 10:05:15 Comments: Actually accessed your web site through info provided by the Lemoore Vietnam Aviators Reunion [Bob Taylor's web page]Am not attending this year due to late receipt of reunion information. I'll be there next year. My Lemoore squadron was VA-196 --ship USS Bon Homme Richard. May 1963-Feb'66. Glad I found you!! Fraternally, Chuck Frederick |
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Name: C Cahill Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Cincinnati, OH Time: 1998-09-29 10:00:51 Comments: This is a great web-site, dedicated to a truely great aircraft. I've only recently began reading material on this bird, but I was so inspired that I am building a model of a Navy skyraider. |
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Name: Larry Wilson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Little Rock, AR Time: 1998-09-29 09:29:41 Comments: Got to taxi one at USN enlisted preflight school in Norman, Oklahoma in 1958. Ironically one of my high school classmates was attending the University of Oklahoma on an NROTC scholarship at the time. Lawrence S. Mailhes was lost at sea on 10 August 1965 in an A-1 H. I had finished my enlistment after crewing on P-2Vs, and was in college at the University of Arkansas at the time. By the way his last name is mispelled on the memorials page. |
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Name: Daryle Tripp Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Alexandria, VA 22309-2208 Time: 1998-09-25 06:15:42 Comments: NKP Jan-Dec 1969 Sandy,Firefly,56th Wing DCO. I'm a former member of the Assn when it was under the late Rube Ware's leadership and was guest speaker and what was to have been the last reunion. Glad to hear that reports of your death were greatly exaggerated! I retired from USAF in 1983 after 33 years. I see many names of wingmen and close friends in the guestbook. The newly formed Combat Search And Rescue (CSAR) association identified you as alive and well. Would be glad to hear from any who remember the callsign "Sandy Zero". Contact me at DaryleT@aol.com |
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Name: Steve Johnson Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Grand Rapids, Mi. Time: 1998-09-21 18:48:50 Comments: The freind that introduced me to the website from Flight Journal was curios to know, as am I, how Spads are still flying today and if any for sale? Any help would be much appreciated, thank-you. Steve Johnson |
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Name: F. Scott McIntosh Website: Referred by: Net Search From: California Time: 1998-09-20 10:09:34 Comments: I am happy to finally find an A-1 site. There are still a few of us Spad/AD drivers around. |
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Name: Jim Costin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: La La Land Time: 1998-09-18 09:58:04 Comments: Fellow Spad Drivers: Congratulations on creation and maintenance of a most outstanding web site. Tend to be a little prejudice concerning the subject matter: flew 223 combat sorties in the Spad at NKP in '69-'70 mainly with the 602nd as a "Sandy" and "Firefly". As Wing weapons/stan eval guy also had the opportunity to fly a few with the "Zorro's" and "Hobos". Was reassigned from jets again in '71, to instruct in the A-1 with Hurlburt's 4407th CCTS. Subsequently, served with USAF Special Operations Force at Eglin. As a lifetime "fighter guy" I have the utmost respect and admiration for the Spad and the guys that flew them...they "took the proverbial lickin and kept on ticking". A toast to our comrades that passed to the great beyond...and any "Sandy" that can't tap dance is q....! Jim "Iceman" Costin JC |
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Name: Rudy Preus Website: Stellar Images - Stained Glass Aircraft Referred by: From a Friend From: Comox, BC, Canada Time: 1998-09-12 22:32:28 Comments: I am a retired Canadian Air Force pilot. My hobby is Stained Glass and my Three Dimensional Stained Glass Aircraft may be of interest to your guests. If anyone wishes to view my work, please visit me at http://mars.ark.com/~stellar/ |
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Name: Thomas Juch Paulsen Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Copenhagen, Denmark Time: 1998-09-11 01:11:54 Comments: Hi Thankyou for this really great home page. Cheers Thomas Paulsen |
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Name: John Santana Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Rapid City, South Dakot Time: 1998-09-07 22:14:09 Comments: I was an A1 mechanic from 1967-68 in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand and Bien Hoa, Vietnam |
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Name: JD Wetterling Website: jdwetterling Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Tampa, FL Time: 1998-09-05 13:51:19 Comments: Great sight. Check mine out and tell me if you yould like to crosslink. JD Wetterling |
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Name: LEEON J. STECHER Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: EVERETT, WA Time: 1998-09-04 01:45:21 Comments: THE SPAD IS ONE OF THE GREAT AIRCRAFT OF THIS NATION. IT IS ONE OF MY FAVORITES. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND MODELS OF IT. KEEP THIS SITE ALIVE, IT'S GREAT. |
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Name: Larry Fincher DDS Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Conway, Ark Time: 1998-09-03 21:29:17 Comments: My Uncle was Donald Fincher, who was killed at NKP in march 1970 in a crash upon takeoff near the base. I would like to communicate with anyone who knew him or of the crash incident. He was an A-1H pilot. 19 years in the USAF. I have seen a photo on the net of a "night crash at nkp". Excet for the time of day, this matches the description of his crash as I remember it described when I was 16 years old. |
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Name: Scottie K. Riffle Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Originally FL/WV Time: 1998-09-03 19:41:03 Comments: Outstanding site!!! Always had an intense interest in this aircraft and the men who flew them, particularly in SEA. Keep up the good work, Best wishes. |
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Name: DENNIS G SOUKUP Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: pittsburgh pa. now las vegas nv. Time: 1998-09-03 17:39:49 Comments: I SERVED WITH THE 456MMS AT NKP FROM 4-72 THROUGH 4-73 I LOADED MANY WEAPONS FOR SANDY AND HOBO UNITS ALSO WAS ON SPECIAL TEAM FOR C130 DURING LINBAKER II THAT FLEW FROM NKP WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY ONE THAT WAS AT NKP..WELCOME HOME!! |
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Name: Joachim Jacob Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Berlin/Germany Time: 1998-09-03 13:56:00 Comments: I found the Official A-1 Skyraider Site as top search result by Magellan. And, i was really surprised. Lots of information and pictures! It´s great! Since months, i looked in some books to get details of Air Force "Spads". As freelance author, i´am very interested on this special topic. My project: a german spoken report of USAF Skyraiders during Vietnam War, including a data base of all aircraft with serial numbers, tailcodes, nicknames, squadrons and bases. Is such a list already existent? If not, who can help me? |
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Name: Allen E. Alman, LCDR USNR-Ret Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Florida Time: 1998-08-30 13:50:31 Comments: Flew AD's 1 through 6 including 3W, 3Q, 4B, 4N from 1952 on through 1955 at NAS Cabaniss, NAS Oceana (VA-25), & NAS Atlantic City (VX-3). Deployed aboard USS Midway CV-41 1953-54 and made 103 landings aboard while it was still a straight deck, qualified as an 'Early Centurion', but we didn't get patches back then. Great site, but Skyraiders are Able Dogs and should be BLUE. |
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Name: Stef WROBEL Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: FRANCE Time: 1998-08-27 08:21:22 Comments: I'm a modeler and a US Navy fan. I've planned to build several version of the Spad in different version (A1-E, A1-H and AD3W) This site is very nice and I appreciate that people still have the passion of such big and beautiful plane. There should be more site like this one. I do support all your team. Continue !!!! |
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Name: Ron Lapp Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Time: 1998-08-27 08:05:17 Comments: I would like to respond to Byron Hukee's request for comments in the A-1 Skyraider Combat Journal, but cannot establish the e-mail address. Could you please print the address so that I can respond directly. Thanks. |
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Name: Ron Lapp Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Time: 1998-08-27 06:54:18 Comments: Excellent web site! I am a big Skyraider fan and the web site is fantastic. As a young boy, I lived in Thailand in 1964 to 1966 with my family while my dad was teaching university in northern Thailand. I was fascinated seeing propeller aircraft in what was essentially a jet war. The capability of the Skyraider was outstanding. On a special interest note, where can I find some information concerning the types of cannon that were used on the Skyraider? Were they WWII M-2 versions, or a later version? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks. |
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Name: Jim Orlando (James V Orlando Jr Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Virginia Beach VA Time: 1998-08-23 23:14:31 Comments: I was in VA 145 Nov64-Dec67. Also a Friend of Dieter Dengler so the story of Dieter and the Audio were very interesting. Thanks for a great Web site. Jim O |
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Name: Don Dunaway Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-08-21 11:50:35 Comments: Looking for ANY AND ALL Ground Crew, Munitions Crew, Maintenance Control, Base Shops etc., that were directly involved with or supported 602nd operations at Udorn/NKP. No timeframe exclusions, no skill level or rank exclusions, no length of time-on-station exclusions! The OBJECT OF THIS SEARCH is the First Annual Rescue Reunion and your participation is REQUIRED! Would you believe ESSENTIAL? Well, how about INVALUABLE? If you are one of these troops, or know one of these troops, do please respond with a quick reply to the above, or to www.testpilot.com or to enmfa@etsc.net. |
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Name: AZ1 Allen D. Taylor, USN 1965-1972 Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Coupeville, WA near NAS Whidbey Island Time: 1998-08-21 10:20:22 Comments: Actually I found this site in an article by Byron Hukee in "Flight Journal" October 1998. I never got to fly in a Spad or with a Spad squadron. I was introduced to these magnificent flying machines at Naval Air Technical Training Center, NAS Memphis, Tennesse in May of 1966. There were a number of Spads on a "flight line" (No runway or even taxiway anywhere around) that were used for training Airman Apprentices on flight deck, safety, and general ground crew maintenance procedures. Any enlisted Airman in training, no matter what training at NATTC, was required to take this course. At that time I fell in love with the Spad. |
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Name: Jack Kull Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Fairfax, VA 22030-1912 Time: 1998-08-20 15:56:26 Comments: Seeking any A-1 drivers with recollection of a mission in late March 1968 near Tchepone providing support for an attempted extraction of a SOG Spike Team. Ground fire drove off the chopper (possibly a 20th HS CH-3) and cut the rope ladder being used by the team to extract. An indigenous team member may have been left dangling on the ladder when it returned to NKP. Another indig and an American were on the ladder when it was cut and fell back to earth where the two remaining Americans remained. Subsequent efforts to recover the team were unsuccessful. A Bright Light mission was launched several days later from NKP in a CH-3 flown by 20th HS Jay Oberg. That recon team was shot off the LZ and may have returned to NKP with team members dangling from the ladder. Any information would be appreciated. The recon team was subsequently declared MIA. Many thanks. Great site!!! Regards Jack Kull |
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Name: Rick Hills Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Ft. Walton Beach Time: 1998-08-20 07:50:17 Comments: My father was Major John R. (Russ) Hills, of Express 16. He is in the front row, second from the left. We have the same photo in the famly photo albums. My three older brothers and I are so glad that somebody has taken the time and made the effort to preserve the history and traditions for future generations to see. It is very gratifying to see that people do care. Thanks for allow me to see through adult eyes (I'm 43 years old now) what I only vaugely remember of my father as a child of 9 years old. Rick Hills |
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Name: William R. Wilson Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Time: 1998-08-17 18:15:00 Comments: I flew the Spad in the early days, 1955-62. FYI there are some interesting stories in the "Wings of Gold" publication of the Association of Naval Aviation concerning long range Spad accomplishments. Best regards, WRW |
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Name: Peachy Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Georgia Time: 1998-08-17 12:49:41 Comments: This is the coolest site. I was just surfing around and had a great time visiting. Especially listening to the mission tapes! Dad was an AF pilot in WW2 and Korea. So, being an AF brat...I am into planes. I also love researching the Vietnam War. I was pretty young while the war was going on. But now I have VN vet friends and I've been learning about the tremendous sacrifices and effort our guys gave. *Welcome Home* Love the VN Vets!! |
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Name: R C Harrison Website: Referred by: Net Search From: New Zealand Time: 1998-08-15 20:51:34 Comments: They don't make em like they used to. |
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Name: Tom Payette Website: Referred by: AOL From: Louisville KY Time: 1998-08-15 19:04:03 Comments: I have an extensive collection of Skyraider photos based in 50s and 60s at Grosse Ile NAS. Part of Grosse Ile NAS history. Happy to share. |
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Name: Tom Lee Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Vienna, VA Time: 1998-08-12 15:41:04 Comments: In country Laos 1968-69 at L39 (Project 404) Looking for A-1 flt(s) from NKP who were working with Raven 30 vic 1617N 10540E on afternoon of 11/27/68 when he was hit and crashed in Se Bang Hieng (river). |
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Name: Dave Bruton Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Louisiana Time: 1998-08-11 19:25:31 Comments: This is a fabulous page for a fabulous tin airplane flown by MEN of steel ; Thank you |
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Name: Buck Carlton Website: Referred by: AOL From: Charleston, SC Time: 1998-08-06 18:47:37 Comments: Hi Spad Types, Former Navy SAR driver (H-3s) in HS-6 ("Indian Gals"/"Big Mothers")(66-68) off USS KERSARGE (CVS-33). Thanks for the help!! Instructor at Whiting would work to the East of the Whiting Training area and "jump" A1Es out of Hurlburt for fun(eventually wound up in F-4s and POW for 6 years!). Would like someone to signup my brother in your A-1 group(VAW-13 out of NAS Alameda in EA-1Fs (65'-67') dets at NAS Cubi Point). Bob Carlton (VAW-13) 3167 River Road North Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Thanks for the memories! Buck Carlton, CAPT, USN(Ret) Charleston, SC (Home in Andalusia, AL-just north of Crestview and Eglin). |
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Name: Warner Pflug Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Michigan Time: 1998-08-06 16:55:32 Comments: Skyraider pilot with VA 45 1954-55. Deployed aboard USS Intrepid most of 1955. Plan on attending a reunion of VA 45 aviators in October in Pensacola. Enjoy your web site. |
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Name: andrea manini Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Italy Time: 1998-08-06 08:05:46 Comments: great airplane, great site !! |
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Name: Brian Jackson Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Omaha,Ne. Time: 1998-08-05 19:28:02 Comments: I am interested in any pictures of the A-1 as I am hoping to be building a radio controlled version within the next year. Any infor mation I can find on unit markings, or any other markings used on the aircraft will help me detail the model as much as possible. Brian Jackson |
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Name: sandra boozer Website: Referred by: Net Search From: smithville, ms. 38870 Time: 1998-08-05 14:14:01 Comments: Love the web page! a supporter. I want to say WELCOME HOME TO ALL! a friend who cares, sandra |
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Name: Dale C. Rutschow Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Colorado Springs, CO USA Time: 1998-08-04 21:58:43 Comments: Really like the information here. My brother was a spad pilot and I am getting him the info. |
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Name: Jim Rivers Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Iowa City Time: 1998-08-02 11:03:51 Comments: An amazing aircraft with an amazing service record. My utmost respect for the men who flew them. |
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Name: Tony DiGiulian Website: Battleships, Carriers Referred by: Net Search From: SE Pennsylvania Time: 1998-07-27 12:22:25 Comments: I've always like the A-1 and A-4's. I've read Mr. Rato's (sp?) book on the Skyraider several times. Very nice webpage, Mr. Heineman would be proud of your site. I run a reunion website at the address posted. I have a listing for the Skyraider (Tailhook) reunion, is there another one that you would like posted? |
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Name: Johnny Booth Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: England Time: 1998-07-27 06:04:20 Comments: Great site, the reference material in this country is very limited so this site provided me with all the research i needed for this great warplane - yours, John |
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Name: JAMES E ROBERTS Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: TUCSON AZ. Time: 1998-07-26 17:22:33 Comments: I served with the 22nd SOS (ZORRO) 68 - 69. Crew Chief on both (E) & (H) models, the H model was LT. COL. Beebe SQ Commanders acft. I`m s still in ACFT maintenance at Davis Monthan AFB (AMARC) aka the Boneyard. Chief of Aircraft Maintenance DSN 228-8315 fax 228-8194 E-MAIL |
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Name: Rodger A. Klenovich Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Greenville, PA Time: 1998-07-23 19:09:11 Comments: A long overdue thanks to a couple of you Sandy drivers for supplying some smoke for our Jolly Green in the A Shau Valley back in 1968. Thanks............really! Thank you. |
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Name: Steven Gross Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Birmingham, Alabama Time: 1998-07-23 14:22:02 Comments: This is a very nice site. My dad was a crew chief in VA-176, and worked Pete Russell's aircraft. We surfed this site together and really enjoyed it. Great job! |
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Name: Noel Frisbie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: York, NE Time: 1998-07-23 02:35:22 Comments: I was in the 602nd SOS, NKP, May 69 thru May 70. Being a part of the A-1 experience/community was a very important facet of my career and life. The Skyraider mission was 2nd to none. I have always considered having flown the A-1 a privilege. What an experience. The webpage is excellent. To all who put so much work and expertise into it, Thankyou! You went above and beyond. It would be great to hear from any of you. |
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Name: Al Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: North Fork, CA Time: 1998-07-22 22:55:45 Comments: Byron, This is one of the finest websites I've seen & I'm humbled to find that I'm a part of it! Charley Gulley e-mailed me a couple of weeks ago that he thought he knew the "Unk" pilot in Shelly Hilliard's photos of some of the Spad drivers who flew the first USAF strike into the DRV (North Vietnam, against the Chap Le army barracks. He is/was correct - I am the "Unk" A-1 driver immediately on the left side of the picture, the one proudly sporting the blue squadron patch of the 514th VNAF Fighter Squadron, out of Bien Hoa. It was indeed an interesting mission! Perhaps Shelly can now take off the "Unk" from the picture. I find I'm also the guy on the left in the picture of the "602nd" pilots being briefed prior to being decorated by Col Bill Bethea, who insisted that I wear an Air Commando hat - a "requirement" that I was proud to have to accomplish. Although I flew primarily with the VNAF through out my tour, I had several missions flying with the 602nd guys as well. They went out of their way to let us "enjoy" their hospitality in their "Club," particularly when we lost some money in the local crap games. ~:-O I love the Spad and am quite proud of being a member of the A-1 Skyraider Association. Thanks for a lot hard work that we're all proud of. Cheers & x6! |
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Name: Brian Harelik Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Time: 1998-07-17 16:35:26 Comments: Hi i am brian 28 years old, and the grandson (1 of 2) of Lt. Col. Ruben Ware. Thanks for the honorable page for rube. The most positive role model in my life. |
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Name: Carl Altevogt Website: Plane Crazy Enterprises Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Conifer, CO Time: 1998-07-13 20:30:50 Comments: Just wanted to let you guys know where to find Squadron patches for Navy Skyraider Squadrons. Also have a nice "SPAD DRIVER" patch.Catalog available-$3.00 Please mention Skyraider- Plane crazy Enterprises 24333 Bent Feather Road Conifer, CO 80433 303-838-4393 |
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Name: Dean Harrington Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Palmyra Maine Time: 1998-07-13 14:18:26 Comments: Looking for info on a mission flown on 6-30-70 in Laos. It was a rescue mission for Nail 44. Jolly Green 54 was shot down during the rescue attempt and was listed missing until 95. I'm looking for info on the pilot of Nail 44 Cpt William S Sanders.I understand his backseater was Army and was picked up Sanders is listed Killed While Missing but no Info to verify what happened. If anybody has any Knowledge about this or know of someone who may please Email me at sniperdk@tdstelme.net Thanks Dean Harrington |
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Name: George E. Luck Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: 5709 147th St SE, Everett, WA 98208, 425-337-2128 Time: 1998-07-13 10:54:47 Comments: Assigned to 609 SOS Nimrod A-26 in Sep 69. Squadron deactivated in November 69. Hired by Maj Dutcher to be flying safety officer in 56 SOW -- later worked for Ltc Rube Ware, Chief of Safety at NKP. In-theater checkout is A-1. Flew mostly with Fireflys until Sep 70 -- flew some flights with Hobos. |
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Name: jay cullum Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Time: 1998-07-13 07:57:08 Comments: nice site! I used to own an AD-4N N409Z, now owned by Tom Friedkin who has a very large collection. I flew my bird and Steve Hinton flew Dave Prices in Flight of the Intruder, made back in '89 over on the island of Kaui. |
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Name: TOM WROBEL Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: MONTANA Time: 1998-07-12 21:38:43 Comments: GREAT SITE,,,,,, A LITTLE INFO,,,,,VAW-11(NAS NORTH ISLAND) HAD ALL THE WEST COAST AD-5W AND AD-5Q AIRCRAFT UNTIL MID 1960. WE SENT 3 PLANE DETS TO ALL THE CARRIERS IN WESTPAC TO FURNISH ECM AND AIRBORNE RADAR FOR THE CARRIER AIR GROUPS. THEN VAW-13 WAS COMMISHIONED WITH CAPT.E.N. HITCHCOCK AS THE COMMANDING OFFICER, WE TOOK ALL THE AD-5Q AND TWO TF-1Q AIRCRAFT TO NAS ALAMADA WHERE WE ALSO SENT 3 PLANE DETS TO THE SHIPS FOR ECM SUPPORT UNTIL ABOUT 1967 WHEN THE SQUADRON BEGAN A CHANGE TO JETS(A3D,EA6,) AND BECAME VAW113. AS A FORMER PLANE CAPTIAN (CREW CHIEF) ON AD-5W AND AD-5Q AND A AIRCREW ECM OPERATOR ON THE QUEENS I MUST AGREE WITH YOU: JETS SUCK,,,,,,SPADS ARE FOREVER!! T.R.WROBEL AFCM(AC) USN RET. |
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Name: Kelly Marble Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Portland (Molalla) Oregon Time: 1998-07-07 20:51:56 Comments: Vietnam Vet Dec 24 1967 - Dec 14 1968. Stationed at 43rd Medical Group on the 8th Field Hospital compound in Nha Trang. Army, but we were right next to the air base and saw a lot of you guys in action. Thanks for your protection! |
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Name: John Schaefer Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Glendale, AZ Time: 1998-07-04 15:37:29 Comments: Searching for Donald E. "Cactus" Jones, A-1E pilot with the 602nd Commando Sqdn., Bien Hoa, VN in the early 1960s. Any information as to his whereabouts/status today, will be appreciated. |
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Name: C. W. Bill Northcutt Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Houston Tx Time: 1998-07-01 05:54:19 Comments: I was assigned to the 602 as a weapons machanic from Nov. 65 till Aug. 66 |
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Name: Joe Saunders Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Denver, CO. Time: 1998-06-29 22:30:35 Comments: Great site. I was an A-6 enlisted guy in VA-42 77-79, VA34 79-81. My skipper in VA34 was a Spad driver. |
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Name: greg taylor Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Los Angeles Time: 1998-06-28 16:02:41 Comments: What a great site. I'm just starting to go through it page by page. I'm looking for any photos of the Trail, the closer the better. I am planning a trip in two years down the "Trail" through Laos, and what to photograph various places along the way that make up the history of the war along the trail. Any help you can direct me to as far as photo archives would be greatly appreciated. Am a VietVet 68/69, 5th Special Forces Group. Thanks, greg |
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Name: Dave Hill Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Zionville, NC Time: 1998-06-27 17:17:09 Comments: My father, CAPT James C. Hill, USN (Ret) flew A-1's in Korea and always talked about what an outstanding plane it was. I just wanted to stop in and say hello. My father passed away in 1994 but I think of him a lot especially when I visit fine sites like this one. |
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Name: B/GEN Jim Rhodes, USAF(Ret) Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Carlsbad, CA Time: 1998-06-27 15:52:50 Comments: Sierra Hotel!!! Found you via the CASBAR! |
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Name: Del Miller Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: St. Charles, Missouri Time: 1998-06-23 09:21:37 Comments: Glad I found this site. Have been a SPAD nut for years. Am primarily interested since I'm a modeler and also had a buddy who was at Naked Fanny around l968 or 69. Hope I got this right, as I'm also brand-new to the Net (forgive any slips!) |
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Name: Gerald E. Denison (Grommet) Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: U.S.Army Special Forces (Ret) Time: 1998-06-22 14:05:04 Comments: A great site, I was a member of CCC, MACV SOG, Kontum and used the Spads and sandys on numerous occasions. I loved you guys then and I feel no different now. If it wasn't for you I would not be here to tell about it. Thanks for so much, my life included, and the lives of numerous other SF'ers just like me. VN 67-68 and 71. |
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Name: Patti Jines Wiechmann Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: southern California from Hurlburt AFB, FL Time: 1998-06-21 17:25:33 Comments: Still looking for information on my father, Capt. James J. Jines, Jr. (dec. 24 June 1965); killed in mid-air collision of 2 A-1E skyraiders over Svea, Florida out of Hurlburt Auxillary Field #9. He was in SEA in 62-63 and again 64-65. He also flew T-28s, A/B-26s as well as A-1s (two and one seaters). He was instructor as well as fighter pilot. I would like any info, photos, stories, etc. I was only 9 at time of his death; he was 34. Thanks. |
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Name: Troy Cubberly Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Dallas, Tx Time: 1998-06-13 22:16:50 Comments: Trying to locate several former A-1 pilots involved in the rescue of my father in Vietnam. Levy M Rentz, Phillip A Roberts, Gary W Schaffer, Alan P Young (a contributor to this website). If you have any information on any of these people please let me know. Thanks |
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Name: Capt Julie A. Wyzywany Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: HQ ACC, Langley AFB, VA Time: 1998-06-12 17:06:02 Comments: Great Site! On the picture of the 22SOS where you ask for help identifying pilots, number 19 is Jim Partington, not Al. Jim Partington is now a Colonel in the AF reserves at WPAFB, Ohio. He taught me aerobatics and is on the other end of the phone as I type. |
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Name: Lew Hatch Website: Raven FAC Homepage Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Decatur, TX Time: 1998-06-12 15:27:32 Comments: Classy page. Thanks for the memories, guys. Raven 44, L-11 (Pakse), '72-73. |
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Name: Kenneth T. Kuhlman Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Houston,Tx Time: 1998-06-12 11:27:18 Comments: Great site! I am a big fan of warbirds, but the A-1 Is my favorite. Good Work Guys! |
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Name: John Lunn Website: Referred by: From LinkExchange From: Knoxville, TN Time: 1998-06-11 18:00:31 Comments: Navy Instructor VT-30 Corpus Christi from May '63 to Sept '65. Brings back good memories of the SPAD, the instructors, and students I served with at VT-30. |
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Name: John E. Marlin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: VAW-13 EA!F NFO 66-67 USN Time: 1998-06-11 08:23:44 Comments: Looking for ANYBODY who served with me in VAW13 (ECM) DET 1 Cubi Point P.I. from 1966 til 1967,fly'n EA1F's Contact John E. Marlin Ex Ltjg USNR NFO at 7123 Coralite St Long Beach ,Ca 90808 |
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Name: Dave Sinclair Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Orleans, Louisiana Time: 1998-06-10 22:29:22 Comments: Fantastic sight some of the best aviation photographs I have seen online... |
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Name: Jay Cubberly Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Texas Time: 1998-06-10 20:54:21 Comments: Looking for crewmembers of 56 Special Operations Wing in Vietnam in March of 1971. Please e-mail if you may have details. |
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Name: Dave Young Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Melbourne, Florida Time: 1998-06-09 21:06:44 Comments: Ret PJ MSgt; Jolly Green; 37th ARRS Da Nang 71-72 Flew Bat-21B missions, Triple Nickle (lost Super Mex over AShau) and QT Citadel Evac. Have mission audio tapes for QT Evac, Bat-21B, and Charliehorse missions. Have my original slides and prints of Sandies & Jollies if you're interested. |
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Name: Rowland Harrison Website: xtra Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Zealand Time: 1998-06-08 18:47:14 Comments: Read Richard Drury's Book |
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Name: Porter L. Pierce Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Vancouver, WA Time: 1998-06-08 08:42:30 Comments: I flew two cruises on the Ticonderoga (CVA-14) from April to December 1964 and from November 1965 to April 1966 in the Spad then spent three years with Air America flying primarily out of SGN. |
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Name: TOMMY HENNESSEE Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: MORGANTON NC. Time: 1998-06-07 21:49:34 Comments: I help maintain and fly an AD-5 Skyraider #135152. This airplane belongs to Hank Avery. It was in Flight Journal Magazine in December of 1997. If you have never been in a Skyraider, it’s one hell of a plane and quite a ride. In May of 1997, we had Bernie Fisher come down and we gave him a ride. I was hoping that he would not say, “Let’s stop on that 2500 ft strip.” Mr. Fisher had not been in a Skyraider for a long, long, time. After landing, when he got out, a small tear came to his eye. If we never do one thing with this airplane again, I know that we did at least one thing right. We gave a great hero another great memory. This is what it’s all about, keeping these old warbirds flying. So the next time you go to an airshow, tell those guys thanks for keeping them flying. Check 6. |
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Name: Kevin Black Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-06-07 21:25:24 Comments: As a current Navy pilot and one who is true to his roots. I am probably one of the few pilots that have even heard of a Skyraider let alone know anything about them. I had instructers in Primary that had never heard of one. My favorite warbird. Thanks for a great page. Kevin (Pitch) Black |
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Name: Charlie Joseph Website: Annie and Charlie's Site Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Maryland Time: 1998-06-05 19:54:45 Comments: Great site. Was in VAW-12 and VAW-33 in the early 60's with AD-5W's (EA-1E). Got some pages and pictures at my site that may interest you. Go direct to: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Meadows/5922/fi04005.htm Enjoy. |
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Name: Brent Barker Website: Fleet Combat Training Center Pacific Referred by: Net Search From: San Diego Time: 1998-06-05 12:29:05 Comments: Spadguy, Just came back to get more info on your ORG to add to our military site of the month. Great Site and I appreciate what you and all the A-1 veterans have done for us. Kindest regards, Brent Barker "DOC" |
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Name: J.D. Powell, USNR Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Time: 1998-06-02 10:52:35 Comments: No comment, except name, rank, and serial number if pressed! |
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Name: Scott Smith Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Seattle Time: 1998-06-02 07:58:42 Comments: Flew my first Spad in 1951 and last Spad in 1968 - almost every version except the guppie (thank God). Better than great airplane! |
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Name: Robert D. Arthur Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: San Francosco, CA Time: 1998-06-02 05:32:11 Comments: Deployed 1965 aboard the USS Kitty Hawk as an attack Pilot in VA-115. |
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Name: Ava D.(berke)Berkebile Website: Referred by: Advertisment/Brochure From: Millington,Tn. Time: 1998-06-01 17:44:41 Comments: I was a member of VA 95 from june 1962 till july 1965 made two tours aboard the uss ranger.I was an AM1 and run the metal shop and worked the line.very good squadron and good old airplanes. |
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Name: Lew Daugherty Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Tucson, AZ Time: 1998-06-01 15:38:29 Comments: I am a member (if my wife paid my dues). Change my address to : Lew Daugherty 2771 Avenida de Pueblo Tucson, AZ, 85718 Send May 98 Newsletter ? |
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Name: Col. M.T,(Marv) Garrison, USMC (Ret.) Website: NA Referred by: Word of Mouth From: 2 Sirius, Irvine,CA (714) 854-0440 Time: 1998-06-01 13:56:58 Comments: Fax: (714) 854-0447. Flew AD-1,2,3,4,5,6. Last of the tiny tim firers. |
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Name: Tom Biele Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: 6th SOS 1968-1969 Time: 1998-05-26 20:59:17 Comments: Just checking in. Looking at keeping in touch. |
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Name: Gary Lape Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Tucson, AZ Time: 1998-05-26 18:02:46 Comments: Old Hun driver who flew A-7 Sandys out of Korat in 74-75 after war was just about done, except for the fall of Saigon, Cambodia, and the SS Mayaguez affair.Nice Web-Site Hook. |
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Name: Craig Curran Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Melbourne, FL Time: 1998-05-26 16:38:31 Comments: As a former A-1 driver with the 6th SOS (Pleiku Jul-Dec 69) and the 22nd SOS (NKP Dec 69-Jul 70), I really appreciate the effort you've put into this site. I'll be rejoining the Association soon. Thanks. |
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Name: Bob Raynor Website: Referred by: Advertisment/Brochure From: Searcy AR Time: 1998-05-26 14:36:37 Comments: I am a HOBO from Oct 67 to Oct 68.I was at plekieu and NKP.Found the site as I got newsletter today and was happy to see all the email addrs.Will have to load a bunch into addr book.Would enjoy hearing from other A1 drivers. |
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Name: Zig Letourneau Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Columbia, MO Time: 1998-05-24 18:24:51 Comments: 1300 Hours A1H/J , Va-115 1964-1967 |
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Name: Chan Qui Nguyen Website: VNAF Veterans Association - North California Chapter Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Vietnam Time: 1998-05-24 09:10:12 Comments: Great page. |
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Name: Patrick Bailey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Everett, Washington Time: 1998-05-23 01:26:36 Comments: The Spad is the Harley Davidson of the propeller driven aircraft.I was born too late to fly them. My father Mac Bailey (Captain USNR ret.) flew the E model in the early 1960's. My car license plates say SPAD 5 and I have a 1/72 scale model of an E on my dashboard painted in Navy colors.I am interested in obtaining any photos, prints ,books or whatever on Skyraiders. Any help would be appreciated. My adress Patrick Bailey 6905 Beverly Blv. Everett, Wash. 98203 |
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Name: Alan Flowers Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Elkton, MD Time: 1998-05-21 21:10:26 Comments: Superb Website! I served at NKP, 56th AMS from March 1970 - July 1971. I, like others, have many fond memories of that tour. It was a privilage for me to contribute in some small way to the Mission(s) carried out by Great Pilots who flew the A-1 Skyraiders. |
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Name: Steve Slachta Website: AEROLOFT DESIGNS Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Arizona Time: 1998-05-21 16:47:37 Comments: I manufacture an 80" radio controlled model of the AD-6/AH-1 Skyraider. Presently I have modeled the Viet-Nam AH-1 that has a Mig kill (409), but I plan to compete in the U.S. scale masters with the USAF (I am x USAF 1970-74) version from the SOS squadron. My delema is that I need good photographs for documentation of the full scale aircraft to model my Skyraider after. I am looking for photographs of a commanders aircraft with the yellow stripes on the side ( makes the model easier to see and adds more color to the subject. Can anyone help? My E-mail is AEROLOFT@concentric.com. Thanks in advance Steve Slachta |
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Name: ray j dermody Website: ussamerica carrier veteran assoc Referred by: From LinkExchange From: new york Time: 1998-05-21 08:32:30 Comments: i was attached to va-66 aboard the america from 1965-67 just saying hello to fellow airdales p/c on skyhawks. am also member of skyhawk assoc. |
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Name: Ron Stout Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Seattle,WA Time: 1998-05-20 17:49:12 Comments: Flew 4 hops riding in the belly of an AD-4N training VMA-251 pilots in the use of the radar for night attack work to replace the F7F-3N's of VMF(N)513. It was a heckuva change flying in the "Spad" after 300 hours in jets. |
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Name: GLENN BROWN Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: MIDDLEBURG, FL Time: 1998-05-19 21:35:32 Comments: NICE PAGE, FOLKS. I WAS A "AT" IN VA-35 AT CECIL FIELD 1956-1958 (18 MONTHS). I BELEIVE WE WERE THE LAST OPERATIONAL SQUADRON OF AD's IN THE NAVY. OUR PLANES WERE AD-6's AND ONE AD-5. MODERN JETS ARE GREAT, BUT NOTHING REPLACES THE OL' 3350 ENGINE AND FOUR- BLADED PROP. THANKS TO LTJG DOUG BELL FOR SOME THRILLING RIDES IN THE -5........ |
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Name: hugo ecklund jr Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: houston, tx Time: 1998-05-13 07:40:09 Comments: flew 22 versions of spad from 1952 to 1968 in navy retired in 1972 |
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Name: Ron Rounce Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Clemente, CA Time: 1998-05-12 21:24:09 Comments: A great site! I look forward to many returns. I was a HOBO/SANDY in 69-70. Life member of the Association. I presently operate an ex-RLAF AT-28D in working colors at Chino, CA. I welcome any old SPAD drivers who miss the smoke and oil to come fly the mini-Spad with me at your pleasure. |
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Name: Richard Frost Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Arlington Heights, ILLINOIS Time: 1998-05-10 18:41:32 Comments: I was a combat Aircrewman earning my wings with VAAW-35 and VAW-11.Did two WESTPAC cruises Aboard RANGER and YORKTOWN in1959 and1960.Flew in AD5N,Q and W types. The 5N was the best overall as we did loft and dive bombing at EL Centro.Crewmen did'nt have "G"suits so I remember" graying out" on pull outs on the dive bombing runs. Carrier takeoffs and landings were interesting to say the least.Reading you pages brought back a lot of fond memories. I'd like to hear from any squadron detachment member who might read this. RICH |
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Name: George Steel Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: McCloud, California Time: 1998-05-01 21:48:14 Comments: I was a weapons mechanic on the Skyraiders at Pleiku in 1969. I was TDY there from Ton Son Nhut for three months I believe from April to July. |
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Name: John S. Buzby (Buzz) Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Cherry Hill, NJ Time: 1998-05-01 12:35:01 Comments: Refered by Kit Carson Sanders.............. '59 VA42 Nugget (Oceana) '59 - '62 VA 85 Weapons/LSO (Oceana)CVA 59 '62 - '65 VT 30 FAM/LSO (Corpus) '65 - '67 CAW14 LSO (Lemore) Attached VA55 (A4E) CVA 61 How do you get into this outfit? jsb |
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Name: Phil Brandt Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Austin, TX Time: 1998-04-30 17:51:40 Comments: My Night Owl brother, Randy Brandt (Dipper 01), had his right stabilator shot off while exiting a multiple gun site target area west of Mu Gia Pass and stepped over the side just after midnight local on 6 Apr 69. He and his GIB were rescued the next morning (05/2343Z). Among the considerable SAR force (approx. 45 aircraft) were Sandys 01-04, Hobos 64-67, Nail 64, JG 71/76 and, of course, Crown 01. Fast movers were: Stormy 01, 02 (FAC), Calico Flt., Speedo Flt., Lariat Flt., Panda Flt., Waco Flt., Shark Flt., Bubbin Flt., Mantis Flt., Detroit Flt. and Gunfighter Flt. The reason I've got precise info. re the shootdown and SAR effort is because the Casualty and Recovery Mission called my brother in Feb. of this year to say that they had located the wreckage. They kindly sent along 1:250,000 and 1:50,000 maps and ten pages of Ubon Command Post logs. Until this time, my brother had to go on memory only. I'd appreciate hearing from anyone who participated in this successful SAR effort. Phil Brandt Vark WSO (Ret.) |
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Name: Kit Sanders Website: Welcome to Bubbles Aquariums Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Amarillo, Texas Time: 1998-04-30 16:19:56 Comments: Flew AD-4, 4NA, 5, and 6 aircraft in USN Advanced Training with ATU-301, then to VA-42 RAG and finally VA-85 from August 59 until Sept 1961. Great Airplane, great bunch of pilots...was in VT-30 out of NAS Corpus when we gave the birds to the VNAF and flew all them to Quonset Point in August 1965. |
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Name: Charlie Holder Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Leavenworth, KS (OUTSIDE the walls!) Time: 1998-04-27 07:55:20 Comments: Hi, Hook. Long time since that Warfighter exercise at Ft Lewis! Good --- no, EXCELLENT --- Skyraider site. Always enjoy stopping by; makes me feel "young" again. Keep up the good work. |
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Name: Chris Cahill Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Cincinnati, OH Time: 1998-04-26 21:01:22 Comments: I am getting ready to build a 1/48 scale Skyraider model, and was looking photos and info about the plane. This site is excellent. |
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Name: Richard F. Kaufman Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Fair Oaks, California Time: 1998-04-23 14:58:39 Comments: I have about a thousand hours in this airplane and in the Korean War. Attached to VF-194 on the Valley Forge and Boxer. |
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Name: Long, Betsy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Houston, TX Time: 1998-04-23 14:39:24 Comments: Hi! Looking for articles on Operation Rolling Thunder! Any ideas? Thanks very much |
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Name: thomas tye Website: VA-95 Green Lizard Home Page Referred by: Word of Mouth From: CA Time: 1998-04-20 20:49:00 Comments: Enjoyed the site very much. Lots of good historical data. Would love to have a link for my A-6 Intruder site placed on the A-1 Skyraider Page. Thanks, and remember......NO SLACK IN MEDIUM ATTACK !! |
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Name: Richard Myron Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Longmont, Colorado Time: 1998-04-20 17:59:31 Comments: I was an Airman assigned to the 6th ACS in January 1968 departed from Pleiku Feb 1969. Was assigned to elctronics maintanence shack for nav. instruments repair. Having flight status and being bored, I flew many of the "free passage" missions in the 47's, dropping hundreds of thousands of the coupons out the chute in the floor as well as many night missions with the "baby tapes". I have a copy of the original news photo which was released to our families and the media about two months after we landed in the C-141 out of England AFB, LA. Have many photos of the base including the destruction of the Engine Hanger by Rockets, etc. Most memorial night was laying in the ditch alongside the "theator" during the rain while rockets and mortors were coming in. Also will never forget the night they hit the bomb dump and it was like noon at midnight. Turned "21" at Pleiku, getting totally smahed at the NCO club up on the hill. Phone/fax 303-678-7244 Mobile 303-588-6672 |
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Name: Fred Robinson (LTC USMCR ret.) Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Woodbridge, VA (orig. Pgh, PA area) Time: 1998-04-19 21:15:09 Comments: Great site! I loved my brief flying in the Spad (AD-5&6, back in the 50's (but flew mostly C-119, C-54, F9F-8, A-4, F-8, etc. etc.). I did notice an apparent error in the Marine squadron listing, i.e. VMA-333. The Shamrocks were, to my knowledge, always a fighter (VMF) outfit, and were (during the period indicated) flying the FJ-3, I think. Also, on the Skyraider quiz, none of the answers are correct on question 10. . . the largest engine on a single engine type was the P&W R-4360 on the Martin AM-1 Mauler, an erstwhile Spad competitor, a good machine but not as economical or versatile as the Spad. It saw service in both Navy and Naval Reserve squadrons! I won't count the F2G "corncob Corsair", since I don,t believe it ever served in the Fleet. I assume that this was intended to be the correct answer (the AM-1 being a largely forgotten aircraft), since the others were obviously incorrect. Aside from this nit picking, I love the site and will return again. Thanks! |
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Name: Thuan Vinh Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Jose, CA Time: 1998-04-16 11:39:22 Comments: Excellent site. |
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Name: Steve whitton Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-04-15 22:04:28 Comments: Looking for anyone who may have been on scene on 14-Feb-69. An F-4 out of Ubon. Rescue attempt out of NKP with LtCol Richard A. Walsh flying an A-1 Skyraider. I want to pass information on to the families. Thank you Steve Whitton Phormer Phantom PHixer Ubonized in '69 |
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Name: Jerry Zimmer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bend, Oregon Time: 1998-04-08 22:54:32 Comments: Flew Skyraiders in VA152 during 1960-63. One fine squadron and fantastic aircraft. |
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Name: Jerry Tabrum Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Federal Way, WA Time: 1998-04-08 16:01:34 Comments: Naval Aviators who flew Spads with VA-65/25 "Fist of the Fleet" are re-uniting in Pensacola, April 23-26, 1998. Contact Bob Kison at 103757.277@Compuserve.com. for more information. |
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Name: Joe Shea Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-04-05 19:06:06 Comments: I am a member, just found you here by accident, Love the work. |
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Name: Darryl Shaw Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Vancouver Island Canada Time: 1998-04-05 14:43:25 Comments: Any VA-155/VA-728 alumni out there? I'm researching an article on VA-155 history and would love to hear from those in the Spad era that served with VA-155. |
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Name: Norman E Davis Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Retired Navy Pilot Time: 1998-04-02 18:44:24 Comments: 1000 hrs+ in Spads. VA 65 USS Intrepid & Enterprise |
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Name: hilton d miller , Electrician(AE) Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Oak Harbor wa Time: 1998-04-01 14:47:17 Comments: I was an ARAB FROM MAY OF 1961 UNTILL AUGUST OF 1964.MADE TWO WESPAS AND ONE CRUISE AROUND SOUTH AMERICA ON THE uss kitty hawk. |
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Name: TSgt David H. Zibell Website: none Referred by: Word of Mouth From: 66TRS, Fairchild AFB WA Time: 1998-03-28 19:19:02 Comments: Was at a comference at fairchild, and the speaker told us about this web page. |
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Name: Nicholas J. Valhos Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Wingdale, New York Time: 1998-03-27 21:08:10 Comments: A carrier sailor saying, Hi, Building an AD 6 Skyraider Navy type, R/C model. |
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Name: thomas tye Website: VA-95 Green Lizards Home Page Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: ca Time: 1998-03-27 16:16:19 Comments: Great site you have here. I must have spent an hour roaming all over the site. I would like to invite anyone interested to stop by the VA-95 site. I would like any former Green Lizards to please drop me an email. Thanks. |
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Name: James EB Stuart (JEB) Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Navy, Park City, UT Time: 1998-03-25 07:34:27 Comments: VA-165 from 1964 to 1966. Research pilot at NAMI Pensacola (A-1E) 1967. Pan Am 1968-1970. Air tanker pilot 1971-1977 (TBM-3, S-2, C-119). Transamerica Airlines 1978-1986 (C-130, DC-8). Pan Am (Berlin) 1986-1991 (B-727, A310). Delta 1991- (B-727, B-737, A310). Ready to kick back!! |
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Name: Robert Taylor Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Out West Time: 1998-03-22 08:23:18 Comments: Hello to all you wonderful guys, I wish I could have bought you more beers at the time....I was one of the "Soggies" on the ground from CCN. You guys saved my butt more than one. Love you all you sweet MFs. S/Bru 11 RT North Carolina RT Kansas CCN 69-70 (don't want to give out my name in conjunction with web site. I still live and work here in SEA. My page is www.geocites.com/pentagon/3313) |
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Name: Dave Kincaid Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Las Vegas, NV Time: 1998-03-21 09:49:22 Comments: Great site! I really enjoyed the picture archive and video clips (too bad no sound on those). I'm looking forward to the realaudio stuff. I've been a Skyraider fan for many years and hope to own one some day. I was hoping you might be able to answer a few questions I have, or give me a good lead. I saw the Skyraider warbirds on the page; are there only three A-1s in the U.S.? I know there are several flying in Europe. Do you have a rough estimate on the current price of an A-1? If my dream is ever realized, I would like to own an AD-5/A-1E, but I read somewhere that they were all so worn out that they were all scrapped in the late 60's. Is there any truth in that, or are there any left? (beside the warbird you show). Lastly, I know we gave all our A-1s to the VNAF when we left Viet Nam. With the detente we are starting to experience with VN now, how likely do you think it is that ex USAF/VNAF A-1s might become available (assuming they weren't all destroyed)? Thanks for your help. DNK |
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Name: Jack Kull Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Fairfax, VA Time: 1998-03-20 15:43:08 Comments: Great site! Very informative. Seeking assistance from any A-1 drivers who may recall being involved in the unsucessful extraction of a SOG spike team near Tchepone, Laos on 28 March 1968. The extraction chopper may have been an AF 20th Helicopter Squadron CH-3 from Udorn forward deployed to NKP. Chopper pilot may have been Carl Crews (MAJ?) One of the recon troopers was half-way up the chopper's rope ladder when ground fire cut it and he and an indig also on the ladder fell back to earth with the remaining 2 other Americans. My understanding is that this could have been one of the first insertion/extractions from NKP carried out by the 20th. Any assistance would be appreciated. Many thanks! Regards Jack Kull |
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Name: Steven M Little Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Santa Barbara, Ca. Time: 1998-03-16 17:11:57 Comments: Greetings from one who remembers it as the AD4-4 and who with his fellow VA 55 buddies completed two tours on the Princeton and Essex and some 64 missions over Korea. My former xo sent me the skinny on your page. Thanks for doing this and good hunting. I have a roster that resulted from our aborted reunion down Phoenix way last year. Steve |
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Name: Nicholas J. Valhos Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Wingdale, N.Y. Time: 1998-03-15 22:19:52 Comments: Carrier sailor, USS Randolph CVS-15, OA Div., 63 to 66' Hobby US Navy Carriers/Naval Aircraft collecting ever thing I can for past 32 years. |
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Name: Mike Quigley Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Ft Walton Beach (USN Ret) Time: 1998-03-14 08:50:19 Comments: I was a Spad aircraft mechanic from Sept 1960 until Dec 63. I was in VA-122 the "SPAD RAG" so I saw a lot of Navy pilots and Vietnam pilots pass threw our doors as well as a lot of ground pounders. The "ABLE DOG" has a warm place in my heart. |
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Name: Geo. G. Anderson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: ORG; WA PRESENTLY; NY Time: 1998-03-13 07:51:16 Comments: Hope to see everyone at the next sandy reunion.Would like to hear from anyone I flew with. |
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Name: Bill Shelton Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Las Vegas, NV Time: 1998-03-11 06:58:43 Comments: In 69-07, I commanded the MACSOG launch site at NKP. Our missions were most ably and bravely supported by the A1 squadrons of the 56th SOW. Without their support, many of our recon teams would have been lost, killed, etc. Thanks guy, you were great! I also belong to the Special Operations Association, an organization composed of the joint service special operations types form WWII to the Gulf War. Recently, through the Internet, and email, I have been able to contact some of the people from the 21st SOS, (Knives) and the renewing of friendships and camraderie has really given me a great feeling. If any of your members remember supporting the SOG mission from NKP, please pass along my email. Bill Shelton LTC (USA, Ret.) |
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Name: John Rumph Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-03-09 16:57:19 Comments: Recieved a post card today that Rocco would be in Ft. Walton Bch. this past weekend for the ACA opening. Sorry that I was out of town for the weekend and did not recieve the card until today. Look forward to the reunion and seeing old friends. Take care. John S. Rumph 1st A.C.S. 1964-65 Hurlburt Field 1965-68 |
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Name: Jerry Tabrum Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Federal Way, WA Time: 1998-03-09 14:49:26 Comments: The VA-115 Spad on your webpage (A1H BuNo 139700) is an old friend from the '65-'66 Kitty Hawk cruise (Vietnam). I accumulated 1350 hrs. and 280 CV landings in A1H/A1Js between 1957 and 1966. |
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Name: Charles E. Turner Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Kansas City, MO. 64156 Time: 1998-03-07 16:55:14 Comments: I was a member of VA-115 and served two tours in Vietnam (1965-66 and 1966-67). I was on the Kitty Hawk and the Hancock. |
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Name: Charles Estlick Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Burlington, Iowa Time: 1998-03-06 20:54:20 Comments: Brings back good memories. I was a recip. engine mechanic with the 56 FMS at NKP Royal Thai. Air Force Base for December 1969 to December 1970. Would not trade those memories for anything. I would love to here from anyone that served there (NKP) during that time. |
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Name: Bob Swanson Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Mpls MN Time: 1998-03-05 14:21:11 Comments: Anyone know of Attack squadron VA95 vets (CVA61 1964/65) My Brother Bill E. Swanson (KIA) 1965 I would like to here from them. |
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Name: Earl D. Powers Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Kentucky (now Jax Fl.) Time: 1998-03-05 10:24:12 Comments: GREAT PAGE I've looked all over for info like this. I took a bunch of Spads to Viet Nam in 1966 on board the USS Intrepid. Retired in 1967. The Spad was probably the finest aircraft I ever worked on,also the power plants crew I had was an outstanding bunch of men to work with. |
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Name: Bob Heisler Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Wilmington,DE. Time: 1998-03-02 17:45:25 Comments: I WAS CREW CHIEF OF 52-906 ON THE BACK LINE AT HURLBURT FIELD FROM SEPT, 1968 TO FEB. 1971.A PICTURE OF MY AIRCRAFT IS ON PAGE 98 OF THE BOOK A-1 SKYRAIDER BY FREDERICK A. JOHNSEN BOB HEISLER |
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Name: spence mcconnell Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: oregon Time: 1998-03-02 17:22:26 Comments: this page has been a lot of fun. brings back a lot of memories. love to hear from vaaw-33. anybody know where peter rabbit chambers got to? |
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Name: CDR Robert J. Brunskill USN (Ret) Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Lander, WY Time: 1998-02-28 18:55:24 Comments: I am proud to have served a three year exchange tour with you guys in the the "light blue" suits". In 1964, LCOL John Porter, pilots and I took the first Air Force A1-Es into Bien Hoa. I was working out of McClellan and made several visits to SEA working on SPAD problems. You Gentlemen did one hell of fine job with that great bird. I found your organization because of LCOL Hukee's letter in Wings of gold. |
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Name: William E. Brown, Jr Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Columbus, Oho Time: 1998-02-28 09:28:31 Comments: Bryon, The picture you have from Clide Bennett in which I am cutting the parachute lines was taken when I was returning to the helicopter, not as listed when going down. You can see me cutting the lines as I ascended to the helicopter. The reason you can't see Blissett is because he is below me. I hooked him up to a six foot rope that I had rigged prior to the mission with a snap link tied to each end, I did not think that I could extracate Blissett and get him on the hoist without him falling to the ground. So I just snaped into his parachute harness and didn't have to get him out of his harness and onto the hoist, a process that would have been very difficult so high up in the tree and under the circumstances, The photo of Williamson putting the bandage on Murray's face won PACAF photo of the year in 1972, A large print of the photo, about 4 feet by five now resides in the Pararescue museum in Alberquque NM, I was glad to see you were in the same photo as I after the mission. It confirms that we were in SEA at the same time. I am in the picture also, but you can't see my face. I'm in the extreme lower right corner talking with someone. Also in the picture is Chuck McGrath who later was awarded the Air Force Cross for a mission sometime in 1972. I can't wait until I get permission from Viet Nam magazine to release my account of the mission. By the way, I got to talk with Blissett about a week ago for one hour. He lives about 15 miles from my parents in Flordia. I will see him when I'm riding my bicycle across America this spring. I'll be in the office after March 14 and can talk with you, You need to get ahold of Billy Brinson, he was on some shit hot missions and has tapes, photos, etc. Also Wayne Fisk, a Son Tay raider who lives in New Hampshire has a great number of stories and I'll bet he can give some insight. Wayne was on the Miaguez Rescue and was recorded to be the last combat soldier to leave the Viet Nam war. Right now I'm at Ohio Univerisity with my daughter Kristan and I was showing her the skyraider site. Thanks for bringing back old pleasent memories and friends. Keep up the good work. Someday I'll get to Spokane and we can have a beer and do some serious rescue talking. I think I told you I was planning on doing a book on the Pararescue story during Viet Nam. Well I find out more when I visit Hulbert Field in May; its along the trail of the bike ride. Until next time, thanks. Bill Brown |