Mothers Milk. radiation concentrates in mothers milk, so women who breast feed give radiation to their children. There is a form of milk that does not collect radiation. Women & men in many parts of the world, especially desert people, feed their babies cows urine and human urine as a safer substitute for milk. paul7kangas@cs.com
paul kangas <paul7kangas@cs.com>
san francisco, ca USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 at 21:47:07 (MST)
smitty,wait on the mail your getting from me,should be there today or tommorow,just cant see it waiting till wendsday.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 at 20:03:50 (MST)
Mr & Mrs Debates, glad to hear from you, stopped by a time or 2 & left a note once, thought you had dropped off the earth. Hope you are OK. Fred, i found the letter i sent you & will print, sign, & send it again but have lost your home address so send it to me if you will. Have given up logging as a career, started out working in the woods as a kid in NW Montana, but as Danny Glover puts it so well " i'm too old for this shit". Am ok, Happy Halloween all. Hailing & spitting a little snow in Wyoming>>> God Bless all with my respects>>>> Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 at 13:36:47 (MST)
Happy Halloween All!!!
Bill Wolf <VNHEloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 at 09:41:35 (MST)
Joe P! I saw in the flight crew newsletter that you signed on as a member. Welcome! Fred, the last I heard Gabby was in Vegas. Mel, if it's the group I'm familiar with, they show up at the funerals of our Fallen all over the Country to protest gays being in the military. They feel God is punishing the Fallen for being part of an army that allows gays in it. Pretty sick. L-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 at 07:58:21 (MST)
happy hallowean.May all your ghost be of a childish nature,as well as your priates,turtles,fairys,cowboys and cross-dressers
alvis
USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 at 07:53:05 (MST)
You can see Phu Cat Air base pretty good from the GOOGLE EARTH..........
Mark
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 22:00:33 (MST)
Fred Skaggs..Coldwater won Friday night. 10-0.....Play the first turney game here at home this Friday...............
Mark
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 21:53:09 (MST)
Hey Gang.......found something interesting to play with on this machine. When you go to the "GOOGLE" home page. Above the type/in box there are some words such as Images,Groups,News, Froogle,Local.and then there is one that says "MORE". Click on it, and then down at the bottom of the page that shows up is a link called "EARTH". You can download a "FREE" program that will make you be able to view places anywhere on the globe from space and then zoom in for a closer look. I have been messin' round with it and doing some flying over Vietnam and the LANE AO. Only problem with it is when you get to close to the ground it gets pretty fuzzy. You can see the AO good from 3,000FT. Can't see any buildings unless you use your imagination. When you do some flying over the USA though things are pretty clear. Check it out if you like...........Bummy Melody.... Evil people. The sermen this morning was to feed and cloth our enemies. That's a tuff one. I guess we need to remember that "revenge belongs to the Lord" and when he has said he is gonna do something, he does it. There will come a time, in front of the "WHITE THROWN", when those protesters will have to explain why they did, what they did, and then they will be thrown into the "Lake of Fire",forever. The best thing we can do to them, and we are intructed to, is to pray for them..take care all........Hey ROBBIE.........let me get this right... In Vietnam, you grabed a tree limb to save your life, and pull yourself out of the chopper as it tumbled down the slope......and then you tried to kill yourself with a tree limb by hanging a saw on one and then falling out of the tree and landing on it?????..................No wonder Larry was able to give you the young girl that gave you the clap!!!!...;-))).....I love you brother!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!always a brother........................................
Mark
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 21:50:13 (MST)
truely is a small world Alex.I was sent to the 60th ahc in Ninh Hoa,which replaced the 48th ahc,in ninh hoa.Its a 98 tracker,changed the egr valve with one from a junk yard,auto zone wants 113 bucks for one,cleaned it,still runs like crap.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 19:33:11 (MST)
Fred: You can clean the carbon from the egr valve and intake then reset the computer. What kind of car is it? Melody it's sad. But,some people have no respect for our fallen Soldiers. Liz and I just got back from the Great Smokey Mountains in East Tenn. Was cold with the higher altitudes getting snow. Met a few Vets. A few from the Cav. and one from the 48th Asslt.65/66 era. From Alabama. Lives in the same town as Jimmie Walker whom was in the 129th. Small world. Bill Liz is helping me with the book material. She know more about computers. Joe good to hear from you. You are right. You need a paper trail to give before you file a claim. Ray and Don was good talking to you both. Don hope got the email I sent earlier. Jamie Debates. we all here for you all. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 13:13:28 (MST)
Mark, I remember going into a hot LZ and pulling the 60 trigger only to hit one round fire and that was it. Pulled the slide back, squeezed, one more round and that was it. We ended up using our 14's. Turned out the gunner had put the gas piston in backwards!! Ooopss - pilot was pissed, but oh well - "Life's a Bitch - Bring Snacks!!""
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 09:15:56 (MST)
grrr,put a for sale sign on Susans car yesterday.The thing immeditaly started to run like crap.Egr valve ,says the computer.Off to the junk yard I run ( a new one is 113 bucks).grab that and a few switches as well.grrrrr,still runs like crap and on board computer says it the same thing.grrrrrr.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 07:09:19 (MST)
my very first CA as a gunner,both guns kept jamming and we had to rely on the 16 we kept leaned up in the corner of our gunners wells.That happened ONCE.Luckly,their werent any bad guys out there and boy did I learn that lesson quick and hard.In my opinion.if the 60 wasnt kept spotless,it would jam.hard to in a helicopter outfit.Wish I had the money I threw away just in rusted ammo.Smile,wouldnt mind the money I just spent on pot.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 06:57:20 (MST)
I didn't mean to discourage anybody its normal 2yrs. seeing doctors and conseulors.******Joe are you coming to phioenix? We can play some holdem hehehehehe.******I can remember a tin when the two co one was leaving and the other was coming in flew into and area where there was no villages around so the old co said chief shoot that water buffalo so I get ready and guess what happen my gun shot one at a time so the gunner took care of it. The buffalo. It was embaressing the co said you better get your gun fixed. my gunner at the time put my piston in backwards. Enough of that. Flight becareful out there
Rick England
USA - Sunday, October 30, 2005 at 06:06:21 (MST)
Mark, the M-60 was an easy weapon to use one round at a time ......... with a little practice. in the case of an M-60D in a chopper there was not much need to fire one at a time, and the spade grip was a little more difficult to control although it could be done. the M-60 used by ground troops had a single trigger under the receiver and was a lot easier to control rates of fire. the reason to fire one round at a time was so the enemy did not know you had a full auto weapon. the M-60 and the M-14 fired the same round (but then you know that) of course when we went to the M-16 it made little difference since all of them were capable of full auto fire. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 21:38:21 (MDT)
I have never been so angry in my life. A local man from Dimmit was killed in Iraq early last week and his funeral was today. Well the thing that was so disgusting is that the funeral was protested by a group out of Kansas. The group is led by a man named Fred Phelps. If you want a look at pure evil look his name up.......Well they protested this fallen soldiers funeral saying that he was going to go to HELL. They protest allot around this whole area of the country. They celebrate everytime a soldier dies. Makes me want to vomit and then beat them half to death.
Melody Pershall
Amarillo, TX USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 21:22:10 (MDT)
One round thru a 60? No sweat!! just put the gas piston in backwards, break a pawl spring, op rod return spring, any of those would allow you to use it as a single shot weapon.LOL.....It was possible to fire it single shot, with practice. I couldn't do it EVERY TIME I tried, however. Occasionally, it would pump out a second round, no matter how easy I was on the trigger.
Kim
USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 20:50:20 (MDT)
Just a question.......the 60?........was it able to just shoot one round?.......I know that there was no reason to do that. Just wondering if it could though?...always a brother.............
Mark
- Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 20:22:58 (MDT)
sorry,just having a little fun. btw,it is a tins
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 16:34:23 (MDT)
had been a heavy combat assault so far.!/2 my ammo was gone and still more insertions to go.The air was thick with choppers,the head set sounding like 12 voices all talking at once.Better change barrels,put alot of rounds thru it.Lots of vivbration in time with the wop of the blades,better get ready for the next insertion.Belts are in and locked,sights down,who needs them anyway.Lifting the 60 from the rest position.Watching my barrel slide off into the distance falling towards the ground.ut oh,i forgot to lockit down,,,,opps,WRONG STORY,sorry about that... sin loi
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 16:32:19 (MDT)
he he he he he...did you like the email? he hehehehe
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 16:23:28 (MDT)
Don't get discouraged, two years is the average time it takes to get VA benny's.
joseph r johnson <cobra073@yahoo.com>
USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 10:04:16 (MDT)
Joe good to hear from you. How you doing? Flight Joe is right it helped me in getting my claim. If going for the ptsd my doctor call downtown to the main VA plus his recommendation helped move mine through quicker. If you are going throough ptsd gaf score below 40 is 100%. You can get this from getting your med records and keep copies of them as you go through the system. It took me 2 years to get my first 50% and then service officer had it reevaluated instead of appeal it is quiicker. Flight be careful out there Remember keep copies of everything.
Rick England
USA - Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 06:13:05 (MDT)
I remember C-model gunships started coming about November or December of 1970, they were from the 238th Guns. But I remember mostly B-model guns....238th was getting AH-1`s.....Coldwater No.1 in the state of Ohio in Football......Mark you guys went up a division......Just been working, out of the IUOE Local 825 Union Hall, Springfield,NJ....My boss is a Nam Vet and treats me like human being.....
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 18:10:41 (MDT)
People, if you have an item to auction off please let me know and send a picture of it/them to Bill Wolfe's and Don Miller's sites. Mark, I don't know where you posted yours but by doing such are you opening the bidding up to more groups than the 129th? I'm concerned that if this gets too confusing for people, with several different sites to go to, we will lose them. Perhaps the photo idea isn't a good idea. Your thoughts flight...please. Meanwhile, my friends, you can start sending your donations to me for the Christmas fund so we can be on our way to arranging for a 129er or two to attend the re-union. We have just released some of our funds to help a 129er who needed such now...you can all be proud of yourselves because you helped out a brother in need. Way to go! Love to all-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 13:48:48 (MDT)
Jim,its posted,please advise if in need of something different.You should have it by monday or tuesday mail.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 10:31:17 (MDT)
Smitty,am writting support of claims for you now.Cant find your letter,so am on my own.Will post today along with last of decals from phil.Hope you are feeling better.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 09:13:45 (MDT)
thanks Joe.and on the same note..." Information Regarding Appeals,Compensation and Pending Claims Contact: 1-800-827-1000. I just called that number to find out about my claim,which I filed LAST year..they say it will be at least till MAY of NEXT year before any decision is reached.Thats 5 months from now and has been at least a year since I filed. shaking my head....these guys are truely experts at the games/paper shuffel they play.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 08:36:05 (MDT)
Just a note for you guys trying to get your bennies out of the VA. Here is what I have found to be a short cut for many I have helped; even some WW2 vets. Go in and let the VA treat you,(it is easy to get them to treat you) for what ever?, "PTSD" is a good one. let them document your case and your treatment, then take their documentation and use it to file your claim. This tactic has proven to save allot of time and red tape. Good luck Joe
Joe Johnson <cobra073@yahoo.com>
Thailand - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 07:12:53 (MDT)
good luck and best wishes.If you go by Smittys,take the chain saw away from him.will ya? chuckle.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 07:04:42 (MDT)
Whew. It took me nearly 30 minutes to find the site again. I was really getting worried that we lost you guys. Too much going on at home to explain ugly details - just know Ron and I are fine but beyond that our family is really a mess. We've been gone much and no quick end in sight. We are hoping to make reunion in June since it's "out West" again... Know without a doubt that you are all still very near and dear in our hearts - we are just stuck in a couple messes right now that occupy too much of our time. You are - and will remain our true family and we love you very, very much. Until next time - we keep you in our prayers and hope you will do the same. Jamie and Ron DeBates
Jamie DeBates
Big Timber, MT USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 21:18:05 (MDT)
I would like to see if Bill Wolfs site can find Gabby.I know he was there in 71/72 and I believe he was from Alexzander Va.I dont know his real name,first anyway,I believe his last name was gibbons.Any help put there? was he a wo 1.or 2?
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 20:07:45 (MDT)
i will have to ask Ron Payne.He flew in a Cobra when I was there and should remember.for an old guy,he is still kinda sharp.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 19:36:43 (MDT)
Jim Westwang,with all the health problems you have,what in the world are you doing climbing up in a tree with a chain saw?Buy a 30-06,sit on the front porch,and shoot the darn thing down.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 18:52:58 (MDT)
Flight - Best I can remember Cobra Plt had "B" Models when I was there Sep69/Mar70. I don't remember any "C" Models being in the unit. "C" models had the 540 roter-blades with the extended tailboons. Take care. Frank
Frank Loveday
Bastrop, La. USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 18:12:54 (MDT)
Robbie and Smitty, that sounds like that commercial on the tube where the guy and his buddy are trying to knock the wasp nest out of the tree into the trash can... the guy with the stick loses his balance and falls into the can AFTER the nest falls in. Heal up fast, OK Smitty?
Dave Powers
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 17:02:16 (MDT)
Smitty you crazy lumberjack you. I do a lot of cutting and climbing and splitting. Going to cut a 30 foot pine tree down at a friends house on Saturday. I usually burn the wood in my garage. We dry it out good, and I burn real hot trying to heat up a 3 car pole barn garage, so not much creasote build up at all. I cut one down when I lived in the city. I climbed up through the middle dragging a small chain saw up behind me. When I got about 15 feet from the top, I tied the chain saw off to a limb and belted myself on the main trunk. I had a postage stamp lawn and got it to start falling right where I wanted it, and then the chain saw was ripped out of my hands and followed the top of the tree down and landed on top of it. Yep, I tied it off to a limb above me.. I kept saying stupid, stupid, stupid all the way down...Rob
Robbie
Rochester , NY USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 13:52:05 (MDT)
We had a C model there in 71. As I recall, all the others were Mike models, which was a C with the L-13 engine. The extra two hundred horses made quite a difference. Of course, it just meant that we'd carry more ammo. We'd usually slide back out of the revetments, turn, come to a hover, then take off. My ship, 212, had a weak engine, especially when it got near douche time. A pinnacle landing with full fuel would have been hairy, glad I never had to ride one in like that......At the end of 71, the company got in a bunch of AH-1's.
Kim
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 13:44:56 (MDT)
Fred, i remember it but can't remember when, sorry CRS. Hope everyone is hanging in there, i took a 10' fall with a running chainsaw a few days ago, hurt my back & neck & cut my lip but am healing up ok. I looked in the Helicopter section & found 2 C models but some were converted from B Models Yes/no?? Respects>>>Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 10:39:32 (MDT)
Rick - a packet will go out in the mail today! Bill
Bill Wolf
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 10:34:50 (MDT)
hey Smitty,you remember ( or anyone else) what month i posted a story about us flying? trying to find it in the archives.Its the one about getting up in a bad mood,checking the outhouse for critters ect.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 09:45:03 (MDT)
Bill, Have not received any package from you. 321 Watson Road ,Allenwood Pa 17810 Cobra Little John 70/71
Rick Benedict
Allenwood, Pa USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 08:23:19 (MDT)
Hey Guys I do not remember the Cobra getting any C models while I was there. I DEROSED in Sept 68. The C model had the 540 rotor system and, I think, the L-11 engine. I was underpowered at a hover. I think it was worse then the B model during takeoff. It would have been a difficult aircraft to land at a ROK outpost and pickup a Korean Observer and then depart those poorly constructed landing pads. I would think that the 129th would have had them later on but I bet it required a change in some operation. Jeff
Jeff Lashbrook <jefflash@aol.com>
Ltiile Rock, AR USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 08:01:45 (MDT)
Fred A., I had the same question about Charlie model gunships. Trying to fill out Bill Wolf's questionnaire has caused me to wonder about such things. I'll bet Kim La Voie could tell us. Hang in there buddy!
Dave Powers
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 07:33:49 (MDT)
make that 16 days.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 05:02:11 (MDT)
Dang,your up early Rick.Gotta be very early morn there.Susan has finished her radiation treatments,whoooo hoooo.Its been a long journey,nov 16th,last year,she was calledback for another mamogram.Damn,what a year.Her hair is now longer than mine,but thats not saying much,for those of you have seen me know thats true.She leaves in 6 days to return downunder.Rick,for some poems from vets,vist http://8thwood.com....its a site ran by a nam vet,but not just nam vets(but mostly is),post there.Just click on writings or poems, I forget. a guy named tony (anthony),an aussie nam vet,has lots of good poems in there. J-sticks,you been dreaming for years,glad to see happen,sometimes dreams do come true.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 05:01:00 (MDT)
Yea Fred we had a couple when I was ther. Gus probably could tell you more or Joe Johnson also Tom Shanahan. They were in gun platoon. They had the 540 rotor system.*****It was good to see you also Don we had a good lunch. It good to meet your family. Flight be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 04:39:36 (MDT)
there were only 736 c model gunships made. Didn't 129th have a few?
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 03:46:05 (MDT)
Rick, it was great seeing you today. of course like all get togethers by 129th people it was too short of a visit. when things settle down around here we'll find out if it is really a two way street, and see if I can make it up your way. I haven't been in your part of the state in a long time. once again I would like to say THANK YOU for everything today. ............ later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 20:51:33 (MDT)
doubt if they will let us anywhere near a chopper,pass the broom please
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 17:56:54 (MDT)
Fred A. I'm ready to go to Iraq with you, but what will we do? Uncle Sam trained me to Kill and sweep the floor. So which of these things did you want to do? I'm already using my sweeping training at Target, and it's not much fun....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 12:12:34 (MDT)
C.P. - Glad to hear Jim O. is doing well, and sounds like his plane is cool! I designed the Snoopy patch that Jim's talking about. My eddress is in the 'Contacts' section. E-mail me and I'll send you a photo of it. Howdy to everyone else!
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 07:25:30 (MDT)
I JUST HAD THE FOLLOWING COMMO FROM JIM....... THOUGHT YOU MIGHT LIKE TO SEE IT, AND CONTACT JIM....... HE'S ON CLOUD NINE......... ktf, C.P. C.P. says: FOUND IT, BLUE & WHITE STOL???????? jsticks@g-net.net says: that's it but it's actually purple white and yellow accents jsticks@g-net.net says: I think she's lovely, callin her Freedom B1RD C.P. says: OH LORDY, I CAN ONLY DREAM ABOUT SOMETHING LIKE THAT........ I KNOW YOU'VE BEEN GOING TO SCHOOL AND GETTING YOUR LICENSE, AND ARE READY....... C.P. says: FREEDOM BIRD....... BEAUTIFUL....... C.P. says: IT LOOKS READY TO GO........ HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?????? jsticks@g-net.net says: I had stopped but guess i'm back in the sadle now,,,,This is my reward a 5 years of Hell jsticks@g-net.net says: course the N# will change, bought a new gps today and just gettin ready, guess how I'll spend my winter C.P. says: 5 YEARS OF HELL???????? WHAT AM I HEARING???????? I'M TICKLED TO DEATH ABOUT YOUR AIRPLANE, BUT WHAT ABOUT THOSE 5 YEARS??????? C.P. says: THE GPS WILL TOP IT OFF......... A FRIEND HAS AN RV6 WITH A GPS AND HE GOES ALL OVER WITH IT....... FILES DIRECT......... MAN, IT SOUNDS LIKE A BEAUTY.......... PROUD FOR YOU JIM.....;... jsticks@g-net.net says: On 13 sep 2000, at the age of 49 i underwent major surgery for prostate cancer, on May 8 2002 my wife passed away from cancer, 7 days after going in the hosp,,,,,now ya know, so I'm on cloud 9 C.P. says: SORRY ABOUTT YOUR HAPPENINGS........ AND THE LOSS OF YOUR WIFE........ YOU'RE RIGHT, YOU DESERVE SOME HAPPINESS........... IT'S BEAUTIFUL...... I'M BOUNCING FROM YOUR AIRPLANE TO HERE, SO BEAR WITH ME....... jsticks@g-net.net says: CP later on go to Zenair.com,,,,bottom of page open ch701 and there's a world of info on the plane, the kit which you can build yourself, great plane i think C.P. says: OK, GOT IT, ZENAIR.COM........ dON'T THINK i COULD EVER AFFORD IT, BUT I'LL SURE ENJOY LOOKING......... MAN, I'M SO PROUD FOR YOU......... NOT ENVIOUS........ PROUD...... THIS IS LIKE A DREAM, KNOWING YOU HAVE SUCH A MACHINE........ YOU SURE DESERVE IT......... jsticks@g-net.net says: Thanks brother, i don't want to brag too much but this does seeeeeeeem to ease to pain of the last 5, can't hardly wait until 4 nov C.P. says: ABSOLUTELY BEEAAAAUUUUUTTTTTIIIIIFUL........... C.P. says: WHERE YOU GONNA PUT IT?????? IS IT ALL TOGETHER, OR DID THEY TAKE IT APART FOR SHIPPING?????? HAVE YOU GOT A STRIP THERE OR GOTTA FIND ONE?????? MAN, A LOT OF QUESTIONS.......... C.P. says: DO YOU HAVE TO HANGAR IT, OR DO YOU PUT IT IN YOUR GARAGE???????? jsticks@g-net.net says: CP i bought this off of a guy that build it himself, it will be registered as exp, and flown as a sport pitot. It has 98 hrs on her and he will fly it to the field i will be keeping her at. Next year i will have it at home,,,600ft strip C.P. says: I'VE BEEN READING UP ON THE SPORT PILOT......... SOUNDS GOOD...... ARE YOU BUILDING YOUR OWN STRIP, OR LIVE ON ONE NOW??????? jsticks@g-net.net says: my strip will be my backyard, only have 9 acres, with 701 don't need much, will put under carport C.P. says: I'VE BEEN DROOLING OVER THE PICTURES........ IT LOOKS LIKE THE CG MAY BE A CRITICAL FACTOR....... THE SEAT AND YOUR WEIGHT WILL BE RIGHT OVER THE MAIN GEAR, AND IF YOU'RE NOT CAREFUL, THE WEIGHT MAY GET BEHIND THE C.G...... MAY BE MY IMAGINATION, BUT LOOK IT OVER........ I ZOOMED IN ON THAT PROFILE............ PURTY, PURTY........... jsticks@g-net.net says: she weighs 620 and gross is 1100, single pilot she cruses at about 90 and 85 with a pack, got 20 gals of mogas, give me about 300 miles, i'll need a break by then C.P. says: DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY.......... SO PROUD OF YOU............ ENJOY IT......... jsticks@g-net.net says: like i said i don't want to bragg to much but i defiently accpmplished a goal i set in 2003,,,thanks brother C.P. says: YOU DON'T HAVE TO BRAGG....... YOU'VE SHOWN WHAT YOU CAN DO....... I FEEL FOR YOU FOR ALL YOUR HARDSHIPS........ AM GLAD YOU FOUND THIS AND CAN GO ON WITH THINGS......... LIKE THEY SAY, " YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN........ jsticks@g-net.net says: speeking of charlie brown i have a flight suit and i want to do the shirt like nam, got all the patches but a 1st plt patch, maby i'll find one C.P. says: I HAVE ONE OLD RAGGEDLY PATCH LEFT FROM THEN....... IT'S NOT WORTH USING....... STRICTLY SENTIMENTAL....... TRY CONTACTING LOU TENHUT........ HE MAY HAVE AN EXTRA........ IF NOT I MIGHT BE ABLE TO GET ONE MADE FROM THE ONE HE PUT ON THE WEBSITE........ jsticks@g-net.net says: Wrong patch for me, my 1st flt plt patch was snoopy straddling a doghousr, firing a mingun with the helmet and gogles, scarf,,,motto One for All, All for One jsticks@g-net.net says: you know rick jense was there in the same plt same time maby,,,,cp today is my youngest grandson's b-day 5 today, he's ready to go flying C.P. says: wOW, TAKE HIM FLYING........... JIM, IS IT OK IF I TELL THE GUYS ON THE WEBSITE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR AIRPLANE??????? THEY WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT IT......... jsticks@g-net.net says: that will be great with me, i just didn' want to brag, and most don't know all that i have went thru, yeah that would be great, might get some commo,,,cp i would like to have your e addy please END OF COMMO...... ktf
C.P.
USA - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 16:33:16 (MDT)
Fred A, Joe (Sir Francis) DePuglia is real........ He and I shared Tiger Wagon my last 6 months there because it was such a low time mission....... Kitchens and Marcum were the primary crew on Tiger Wagon then...... I understand that after I left in April 70, Joe extended and flew Tiger Wagon permanently...... I've been in touch with him the last few years and he isn't very talkative, but you know he's real........ Good to hear from you Joe....... Stay in touch...... ktf...
C.P.
USA - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 15:11:29 (MDT)
Bill, no package yet. Ronald Keith Letson 1538 Tate St. Corinth. Ms. 38834 I also tried to list on that site Alvis posted. no luck will try again. Slow typing today crushed the end of a finger at the shop yesterday evening. behind a weekend of fighting a kidney stone......was glad to win that battle.
Keith 72-73
USA - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 12:59:43 (MDT)
whats happenind out there flight. i tried to post my name the map wed site. thesite told me my zip code was invalid. i,ll have inform the post of that,heeeeeeeee. i'm going to try again today......bill i got your packet. just finishing it up. i'll get it off in the next few days.......ray you sounded real good the other day on the phone. gald you called made feel a lot better on how you wre doing. oh an made it through another hurricane........ i have an suggestion about a mini reunion in place of pheonix. we could have here at my place. i know it might be a trip for some. i leave a 55 plus community, ist theres a quality motl about fifteen minites from me, my community has enoufg to keep all of us busy. the club house has a four lane bowling alley, card room , a good resturant an bar. the food is get an at a good price,a olympic size an a 400 arce lake for bouting an fishing. in fact if you have your own sea plane you can land it on the lake. theres golf, shuffle board, tennis an a ballroom for a dinner dance. cypreess gardensis fifteen mimutes away an of course theres always disney world 40 minutes away.just a thought wink 3/69-10/70
wink
lake wales, fl USA - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 08:31:21 (MDT)
..at's ok Fred. Doesn't hurt to be on guard. Love ya brother.........always one
Mark
USA - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 04:00:20 (MDT)
thanks Mark.forgive me for my supicious mind.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 23:05:29 (MDT)
Fred A. here is an e-mail I got from Joe that I havn't had time to add him to the CONTACTS list yet....hope this answers your question. Contact him if you want to......................................Mark, I flew with the 129th from May '69 to May '70 with the first platoon and extended flying mostly Tigerwagon until Dec. '70. My Callsign was "Sir Francis". I was Mr. D. to a lot of the crews because my last name was kind of hard to say. I'd be proud to have you add my name to the 129th list of contacts. Thanks, and welcome home. Joe DePuglia 192 Beacon Dr. Milpitas, CA 95035 depuglia@juno.com
Mark
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 21:54:43 (MDT)
As I ask before, anyone ever heard of Joe DePuglia,says he was with the 129th 69/70.He posted on phils site and i am courious if its true or if he is a wanna be.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 21:31:02 (MDT)
CP,paul,glad you guys met up for a "mini".You both are good guys.Sounds like Paul gave you the "Kokomo treatment",chuckle.Sure is nice to come in here and not see the spammers,what a relief.Hey Robbie,lets go get a jobin iraQ, pays 80 k a year in the rear,non taxed.remeber the civilian guys in nam,never could figure out why they where there till a while back,now i know.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 21:27:02 (MDT)
Fred A..I took the Dixie Test. Got 52%. Right on the Mason Dixen line it said. Paul and CP, so glad you guys got to meet. Thats really great. CP, how come you never rode the bike there? Thanks for sending me the photo of it. Soory I never responded to that e-mail from you. BTW, Kal and I take all the blame for you getting it!!!! ;-).Hey Fredie Skaggs. Coldwater is 9 and 0 again and number 1 in the state. maybe this is the year. I hope so. Dee and I belong to a Prayer Warrier group that the coach heads up. He is a beautiful human being. Claims he doesn't deserve anything. He brings more then football to this town. His first passion is to serve the Lord. Very humble man and an honor to call him friend. I hope he gets the title this year..yeah Stacy, it is good to hear from you. Robbie, Ray has told me that story about him trying to out drink Larry. When I ask him if he did, all he could say in only the way Ray can say was, " Oh Brother". God Bless you all....Lenny Adams, was also good to see your post brother.........always a brother...............
Mark
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 19:55:37 (MDT)
Stacy good to from you I still have tyhe # 623 3882628
Rick England
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 19:43:13 (MDT)
CP: thanks for the kind words. shared your post with ida.hope i didn't rattle you to much on the way home. we will definately see each other again. can't find any info on the net about smithers cave. will email later in week paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 19:36:09 (MDT)
Greg, will send your package out today! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 15:40:18 (MDT)
WOW, What a trip....... Pulled in to the Meramec State Park in Missouri about 10:30 am....... Found the campsite I was looking for, and parked in the spot next to it..... I sat in the old jeep for a minute, thinking about this, and wondering if I was up to it....... Reached in the back seat and found my old, blue cap, the one with the emblem on it....... Looked at it for a second and then slapped it on my head, opened the door, and got out...... I took about 2 steps and heard someone yell, "C.P., 129th!!!! " I looked for the voice, and saw him coming toward me, with a big grin on his face........ He had seen the 129th Patch on my old cap... I've never met him before, but with that grin I knew I'd just found a "brother"....... He threw his arms around me and said, "Welcome Home!"........ "He" is Paul (Mcgrath) Brown, of the 498th Dust-off, Lane Heliport, Vietnam, and recently adopted by the 129th AHC..... He had just came to MO with a group of Boy Scouts from Oglesby, Illinois......... We had talked on the computor, and I knew he would be there, and decided I would try to hook up with him for a few old memories, and maybe a story or two...... You know how those old guys are when they start talking aviation, guard duty, burn barrels, bodies (alive and dead) that had been picked up, etc, etc........ Paul introduced me to all the Scouts and adults, and I especially enjoyed meeting Ida, his other half...... I sensed in her an intelligence, grace, and poise rarely seen....... She truly impressed me with the way she handled Paul and all the Scouts....... Ida, hopefully, you can get to meet Gently, Katherine, Dee, Mark, and all the rest of the 129th gang....... Paul, I know, from the way you talked that you are so proud of her, and that you realize what a lady she is.... But it would be nice if she could meet the rest of the gang ......... She and the boy scouts went off caving, and exploring the area.... Paul and I went up to a Truck Stop on the interstate highway....... It was as if we had known each other all these years....... There wasn't a thirty five year gap between us.... We ate, drank our coffee and talked about anything and everything that we could imagine....... Two and a half hours later, Paul needed to get back to the campsite for his boyscouts..... I hit the interstate and headed home........ My mind just rattling about the last couple of hours or so........ Paul seemed to have a personality that just opened us up to talk...... I'll admit there may have been a time or two that there were "wet" eyes....... Some of the things we talked about were so personal, they could only have been said if there was a complete trust in each other....... Paul, thanks for making my day....... I truly enjoyed meeting you for the first time, and know you'll impress all the others you meet in the same way........ Thanks for taking the time out of your trip with the Scouts to visit with me....... We'll see each other again......... ktf,
C.P.
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 11:44:52 (MDT)
Thanks a bunch to Mark and David for getting rid of those damn spammers. I was getting dizzy trying to find a legitimate post. Bustin my hump trying to get enough wood stacked up to burn for the winter. The rain isn't helping me any and it looks like more of the same for this week. Ray, how you doing Brother? Did you find something to keep you busy and not thinking bad thoughts? I think about how you tried to out drink Larry Jackson that one day and then Top called a formation and kept us standing in the sun quite awhile. I saw you wobble and then kerplunk.... Hope the flight is ok...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 11:31:24 (MDT)
Bill, I haven't received your package. Would you please send me one : Greg Henkel, RR2 Box 6260, Pahoa, HI 96778. 1st Flt Platoon '71-'72. Mahalo
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 11:30:57 (MDT)
BOOK UPDATE: Alright gang, everyone should have received their envelope or email by now on the 129th history/stories book. There are some huge gaps in the history section - especially for the 70's. If we really want this project to get off the ground, I need all of you to fill out the paperwork and get it back to me along with pictures (please describe each photo). If you haven't gotten a package from me - let me know and I'll send you another! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 08:06:08 (MDT)
hey fellas. got me a new toy now. old one crashed and burned. took me a while to save up my nickels and dimes to get it. just checkin' in to see what condition my condition was in... PFC Stacy McLain 129th '70-'71
Stacy McLain <stacymclain@aol.com>
flagpole, az USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 06:28:27 (MDT)
Yes, thank you Mark and David for cleaning up the flight log. Flight be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Monday, October 24, 2005 at 06:02:14 (MDT)
wooo hooo,13 folks on the map now.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 23, 2005 at 20:07:12 (MDT)
anyone know Joe Pulgia? he posted on phils site,says he flew with us 69/70.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 23, 2005 at 20:03:44 (MDT)
old fellow I worked with,loved a funny joke and still had an appreciative eye for a shaply butt.he is in his late 60s,old but not dead,if you know what I mean. His name is Fred also,and we always had a good chuckle when the folks at work sent the wrong calls to us ,or gave us the wrong pay checks.He saw good times,being president of one company or another,but he has also seen bad times,just like most folks.He got old and tired,tired of staying home so he got a job at Lowes as an appliance salesman.We became friends.he started losing weigth a few years ago,had prostate cancer.he fought the good fight,even found time to talk to me when Susan was going thru chemo,as he was as well,again.Couple of months ago,he came in,telling me he was now on experimental stuff,nothing left for him to try.He was much skinnier.Been keeping in touch with him,as i said,we are friends and he was one person I could talk to that understood exactly.He was sent home a few days ago,discharged to hospice.6 months they say,but we all know better.He was never in the service,but was from a time when folks backed the american serviceman,plus he had watched what all us vietnam vets went thru.he never left our corner.Just another good guy,among so many good guys,who have passed,or is passing soon,unremarkable in world events,no-one will remember his name or his face.Perhaps,as I sit here and think just why I am writting this in here,is why.This place is good for thinking out loud,gathering ones thoughts,and sharing.Not everyone gets well,not everyone gets the little white house with the picket fence,not everyone gets remembered.I shall mourn the passing of a good friend,someone who deserves better.Stinking ass cancer.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 23, 2005 at 19:57:50 (MDT)
CP. not sure when i'll catch you on msn so i'll do this here. really nice to meet you yesterday you made me think of a few things i hadn't considered before. wish the visit could have been longer. i really appreciate you driving 100 miles to come visit, hope your trip home was uneventful. kids had a great time caving and just arrived home a little bit ago. will email you later in the week. thanks again paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Sunday, October 23, 2005 at 16:53:53 (MDT)
sAW Ron Payne today,he dropped by my work.Looks healthy and happy.We got to talking about a 129th mini/xmas party.Tossing around a few ideas,since the pop a top isnt an option anymore.We talked about having it here in indy,for a few reasons,one is to make it easy for Raineer to get to,if he wishes,but still on the west side to make it easier on you folks living west of indy...hint hint hint.We are up for ideas from anyone wanting to attend..all are welcome.Ron said he would have it at his house..burn a few steaks,kill a couple of beers,ect.,but thats still an open idea.Susan will be gone so I will have room for an over night guest or two,or three if one doesnt mind the couch.Heck,I could take the couch and have 2 couples stay if it came down to it.What you say guys? Oh, Ron lives just south of the airport and I-70.I live between the airport and I-74.Were probably 10 miles,or so, apart.
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 22, 2005 at 20:01:37 (MDT)
Thank you! Thank You ! Thank You Mark & David !!!!!!
C.P.
USA - Saturday, October 22, 2005 at 17:45:07 (MDT)
THE WEB SITE WHERE THE "WALKING STICK" TO BE AUCTIONED OFF FOR THE CHRISTMAS FUND CAN BE SEEN AT < http://spaces.msn.com/members/THE-257/PersonalSpace >.....ALWAYS A BROTHER.....
Mark
USA - Saturday, October 22, 2005 at 11:39:23 (MDT)
Regarding the site that Alvis sent ya to for the map - use this address: http://www.risingconcepts.com/frapper/129thahc It works pretty well and it's nice to see faces again!! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, October 22, 2005 at 09:14:18 (MDT)
I went there and it gives me a warning, then shuts my PC down !?
Gale
USA - Saturday, October 22, 2005 at 08:08:26 (MDT)
I went there and it said 129th couldn't be found.
Rick England
USA - Saturday, October 22, 2005 at 05:45:39 (MDT)
well I'm #6 to sign up but it said my zip code was an invalid zip code so I picked a town about 5 miles away. I'll add a pic later if I can find on that won't crash the site. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 21:09:43 (MDT)
I'm on the map now also Fred..but I see David made a post in here and cleaned the place up a bit so maybe it will be better now.....stick around gang...always a brother.
Mark
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 20:09:04 (MDT)
woo hoo, 4 of us so far,3 with pics.thanks guys.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 19:49:05 (MDT)
I have just made a modification to the Flight Log that should hopefully restrict SPAM without restricting legitimate use. Lets hope this works well!
David Steinbrunner
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 19:10:26 (MDT)
Mark, If you get a chance my e-mail address changed to bauerrv@peoplepc.com thanks
Rainer Bauer <bauerrv@peoplepc.com>
Indy, USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 16:04:19 (MDT)
Ok, that's enough for me, boys. Somebody let me know when we're back to normal on this site. L-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 14:23:41 (MDT)
Flight - These goat lovers are screwing-up our web site. Anyone got any ideas?? Alvis I can't believe you misspelled something. Sep69/Mar70.
Frank Loveday
Bastrop, La. USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 13:33:39 (MDT)
jeeze,mispelled it in the first post.....jeeze>>>>>>>hanging head in shame
alvis
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 13:00:11 (MDT)
http://www.risingconcepts.com/frapper/129thahc
alvis
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 12:58:20 (MDT)
Attention in the zoo.............129th folks,and any others that want to that come in here,please go to the following site.I have found a little fun map that will place each of you on it,should you so desire.you can also leave a short message and a pic if you so desire.It harmless and lets everyone know where you live... http://www.risingconcrpts.com/frapper/129thahc .............
alvis
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 12:54:56 (MDT)
I AM WORKING ON A PASSWORD TO BE INSTALLED TO ENTER THE "FLIGHT LOG BOOK" SO THE SPAMMERS CAN'T GET IN ANYMORE. ONCE WE HAVE IT, I WILL ALERT YOU HERE AND THEN YOU CAN PASS IT ON TO OTHERS THAT DON'T GET MY POST.........SORRY ABOUT ALL THIS........ALWAYS A BROTHER..............
MARK
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 11:47:21 (MDT)
slow hand salute ,respectfully renderded. Lou,I cant believe it either.Hust went looking for more post...I just gave up,it isnt worth it this morning.See you guys when this gets fixed.will not vist again still I get an email says its fixed. alvis, pulling pitch.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 08:40:15 (MDT)
Morning flight, can't beleive all this junk, just a reminder, slow hand salute to our fallen brother Geroge Hains, was a great guy, his accident still haunts me.
Lourags1
Dover, De USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 08:33:43 (MDT)
Whats with all this poker crap, is there any way we can get rid of it?
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 08:09:31 (MDT)
just wondering...can you guys run your "adware".perhaps some sleezy bug is hiding and it sends in a automated report.just ran mine,found 14 bugs...and I run it often.never have been to a poker site tho,shrug,doesnt hurt to run it.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 22:43:13 (MDT)
just wondering,anyone stationed at Ft.Benning when the movie Green Beret was filmed there?
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 22:34:19 (MDT)
Geez Westy and I talk about poker and see what happens. I am afarid to talk about anything anymore. What happen to the drugs?
Rick England
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 20:39:07 (MDT)
God, I hate all this spam!!!1 I can't imagine they've received any replies from the people here. Is there any way we can get back at these sites without encouraging them? How about it computer guru's......Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 16:53:15 (MDT)
Actually Ray, the CAN eat us, bet none of us would taste very good, though hehehehehehe..... Alvis, Dusty Rhoades....same same American Dream?
Kim
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 15:32:47 (MDT)
Alvis, don't feel too bad. There's been many embarrased "hot rodders" because of the ole powershift!! HeeHheeheehehe!! Gale
Gale
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 14:53:46 (MDT)
Geez....
Gently
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 14:31:00 (MDT)
GREAT STORY FRED. brought a smile to my face. lucky theres room for it in between the spam
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 11:41:12 (MDT)
16 years old,driving around looking at cars with my brother,whom was 3 years older and looking for "the" car to buy.Dad was retired from Ft. Benning and had an old army friend that worked at the local Pontiac dealer,as a salesman.We stoped by.There sat one gorgeous,2 year old,1964 GTO,convrt,4 speed,tri power,black and shiney,red interior,monster.Dusty Roads,being friends with dad,gave it to us for the weekend for a test drive.Miles and miles later,big brother Mike,ask if i wanted to drive.Shiiit yes," I replied".Having never drove anything faster than a 61 ford fairlane,352 powered,family car,I was in hog heaven.After going thru the gears ,once or twice,to get familar with a 4 speed,Mike says..get on it.I am surprised my face didnt crack from my big ole smile.Remeber,this is my first time in anything like this.From a smoking standstill I watched the revs climb till time to shift to 2nd. Great shift,tires still smoking,again watched the tac for my powershift into 3rd.I rammed that thing into 3rd,but hit first,popped the clutch,and damn near both of us went thru the windshield. My my,glad Mom didnt hear the words my brother screamed at me.The car was ok,my pride was totaled
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 11:32:22 (MDT)This is to much a pain in the ass.I am stopping trying to find post between spams.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 07:10:37 (MDT)
Ray, I guess it's best to listen to your counselor instead of all us "deadbeats", but, trust me.........the more work you can do, the better. Also, the more walking you can do the better.....and I don't mean strolling.....I mean walking as fast as you can for 2 or 3 miles at a time and 2 or 3 times a day. SUCK IN THAT OXYGEN brother Ray. I'm speaking from experience when I was going through divorce, financial difficulties and my Mom passing away all at the same time............kinda sounds like a "country song". Ray, just remember..."they can kill us,but, they can't eat us"!!!! Gale 67-68
Gale
USA - Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 18:13:34 (MDT)
Geez.....I hope my Christmas Fund post isn't lost in this mess. Mark..where are you? And who let the dogs out? LOL, kinda. L-G
Gently
USA - Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 15:29:03 (MDT)
HELLO TO ALL FRIST I LIKE TO THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELP AMD SUPORT, I TALKED TO MY CONSLER YESTERDAY ABOUT IT, HE SAID I AM HAVINE ENOUGH THOUBLE WITH JUST ME AND HIM. , BUT WE ARE MAKING PROGESS. HE HELPS ME A LOT. EVERY TIME I SEE HIM THE NEXT DAY I FEEL BETTER, I FEEL GOOD TO DAY. I KNOW I GET THREW IT FOR I HAVE MANY FRIENDS HERE LOVE YOU ALL. SO FAR I DONE DISHES VAC THE ROUS AND CLEANED THE OVEN, WAS GOING TO CUT THE GRASS, BUT SOMETHING TELLS ME IT WILL STILL BE THERE TOMORROW, SO I DO IT THEN' I GET SO TIRED I WALKED MY 2 MILES TODAY AND PRATICING THE FLUTE NOT BAD FROM THE DAYS I SAT ON THE COUCH. TOM MY CONSLER CALLED TODAY TO SEE HOW I WAS TOLD HIM I WAS DOING GOOD . BUT GOT TO SLOW DOWN ON THE HOUSE WORK IF THAT GETS OUT WOW LOL BUT IT KEEPS MY MIND GOING, AGAIN I THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR HELP YOU DONT KNOW HOW MUCH IT MEANS TO ME , LOVE YA ALL, A BROTHER ALWAYS MARK AND RICK THANKS FOR CALLING. GENTLY I SEND YOU AN E MAIL TOMORROW JUST TO SAY HI ;-)))) IAM PROUD TO BE PART OF THIS FAMILY I KNOW I COME A LONG WAY WITH YOUR HELP AND I THANK YOU ALL
RAY
MD USA - Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 12:35:34 (MDT)
Geez...what a beautiful response to helping Ray. That's family for ya. Stress unit? One of our VA's here in Wisconsin specializes in in-patient PTSD treatment, and I have heard good things about it. Maybe such would be good for you Ray. Please talk to the guys here about it, please. I'll be home Thursday night if you and sweetie pie Rick England want to call. Oh yes, Jingle Bells, Jungle Bells!!!!! Start sending the bucks my way folks! It's time to enrich our Christmas Fund so we can help get some of your brothers to the re-union next June. To date, we have a handmade walking stick from Mark(and it's a helicopter crew members' dream), jewelry from our dear sweet Melody, a Chopper head from Gail(we should all have one of those!), and perhaps another beautiful hand carved wooden plaque of the 129th badge. So our shelves are nicely stacked for bidding: unfortunately it's going to be blind bidding unless we can get photos of the items on the web. Having said that, last year we raised enough to send twop people to the re-union and footed the entire bill...God bless all of you. Let's go for it again this year. Start writing the checks, now. One, two, three, go.....:>) Send them to me: Judith Singer, 7221 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee WI 53213. We have a 129th Savings Account and that's where it will go. As soon as I hear on the prices our donors want to start the bidding at, the bidding will begin. Now if only the wood carver wouild let me know about the 129th plaque....:>) Love you all-Gently Oh, everything is confidential-always has been and always will be. Fred...every ten bucks counts:>)) Send it on! X0X0X0
Gently
USA - Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 07:08:25 (MDT)
something has got to be done about this spam.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 22:02:49 (MDT)
Bill.looks like your doing a great job on the book.Smitty,had to put your request back till friday.RAY,hang in there brother,we are all pulling for you.You just remember that all of us like and respect you here,just because you are you.We are all proud to call you brother.Cant learn anything? you sure as heck learned to play that flute!The doc was wrong,and I heard the proof,as did many of our brothers and sisters.Robbie,Cp,Mark,Smitty,Kal,i am jealouse,wish i had a helmet( and bike) to put a sticker on.Oh well,the power ball lotto here is 340 million,got my fingers crossed.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 22:01:19 (MDT)
almost last update on Susan. 6 more treatments to go,should be finished by wensday of next week.Burns getting worse,some flesh comes off now when she changes bandages.Still discoloration rampant.You have seen old meat at the grocery store,,where its gray? Thats her nipple.very tired bit remains in good spirts,still has "chemo brain",which is crs to the max.They tell us the burns will continue to worsen up to a week afterwards,then its over,no more pain,or the other crap. If this saga has scared anyone ...good.It is scary.Most folks dont have the reactions that Susan had/has,or as bad anyway,just her luck.She is sleeping on the couch now,I try and let her sleep,its an escape as well as needed.I truely hope never to see anyone post as i have done,no one deserves it.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 21:51:42 (MDT)
Evenin' Bite&Strikerz..Haven't chimed in for some time now..Man! whats with all the party poker stuff? Hope n' pray all is well with you & yours. As before mentioned, Lenny Jr. is still in The Sandbox. Due to DEROS 8DEC. Other son Danny is at SUNY Potsdam on a USAF ROTC Scholarship. The Wife's 18 month checkup came out perfect. No more cancer cells!!P.T.L. Stars & Stripes Middle East Edition says we're winning this one. Can't wait to get our loved ones out of there! Gas prices in the Big Apple are $2.81.9/gal today, and people are rejoicing! LOL. Stay alert people. Clear Left,"fire"
Lenny Adams <rtrwingnut@yahoo.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 15:27:55 (MDT)
HELLO TO ALL FRIST THANKS FOR ALL THE ADVICE, I TALKED TO MY CONSLER ABOUT THE STRESS UNIT, HE TOLD ME IAM HAVING ENOUGH TROUBE JUST WITH ONE ON ONE, SAYS I NEED TO STOP MY NEGIVE WAY OF THING, SAI WHEN HE THINKS IAM READ HE PUT ME IN ONE, HE DOSE A LOT FOR ME EVEN CALLS ME TO SEE IF IAM OK, ;HE IS TRYING TO GET PAPER WORK IN FOR THE VA SO I CAN GET A CAMERA AND GO TO SCOOL TO LEARN TO USE IT, BUT WORRYS ME MY HEAD SHRINK SAID IAM INCAPLE OF LEARNING. AND THATS TRUE, I BOUGHT A NICE WACK WITH A COMPASSAND OTHER THINGS I DONT EVEN UNDERSTANDD THE INSTUCTRONSN IT I GOT THE TIME RIGHT AND COMPASS BUT CANT DO THE REST, I HAVE ANOTHE ONE I CANT CO, ALSO HAVE A CAM I DONT UNDER STAND HOW TO EDIT SO THE SCOOL MAY BE OUT, I FEEL A BIT BETTER TODAY I ALWAYS DO AFTER I SEE HIM, I DONT THINK I COULD HANDEL A STRESS THING MENTALY YET MY MIND I NOT READY FOR THAT, IAM AFRADED IF I DID GO TO SCOOL I COULD LOSE SOME BENIFITS THE HEAD SHRINK SAID I HAVE NO ABILT TO UNDER STAN I STIL HAVE NOT EVE SET THE CAMERA I GOT IT SET JUST TO TAKE PIC.THE HEAD SHRINK SAID I HAVE NO ABILT TO UNDER STAN I STIL HAVE NOT EVE SET THE CAMERA I GOT IT SET JUST TO TAKE PIC.I HAVE TO BE EVALUATED TO BEFORE I GO TO WELL TAKE CARE A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY <stilwating@aol'com>
MD USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 15:23:31 (MDT)
Mark, can we dod something like you did on the contacts page? You have to click on another button to enter.This is way beyond what is acceptable.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 14:27:01 (MDT)
Ray, I think Wink and Bill are correct. You should get yourself in a stress management group of some kind and meet with them every day or as much as you can. I feel bad for you Brother, and I can't believe that going to a shrink and dredging things up about Vietnam and what you did or might have done there is going to make you feel better. Remember what Bud Rainey told you about that night and that Steve was just jerking your chain. You know that now and that is what was bothering you the most all these years. I hope you can find something to do to keep you occupied and that interests you. Good luck, and remember you can call me anytime. Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 12:40:57 (MDT)
Harrell, Do what you can to contact John or Brad (281)-293-7000 at State Roofing in Houston,TX. Tell him Dennis from Roofing Supply Group-Orlando gave you his number. He will be able to help you out on your roof situation. They just left their office here and returned to Houston. Dennis 72-73
Dennis Fuerstenau <dpf092003@yahoo.com>
Haines City, FL USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 12:07:39 (MDT)
WOW!! I think we need a new website or somethin'. Ray, I agree with Wink & Bill about the "stress management".....don't put it off too long. Luv ya Brother!!!! Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 11:57:35 (MDT)
Ray - Wink is 100% right. You need to seek out a stress management group - there are plenty of them out there and many do it on a sliding scale (based on income) and there are probably some out there that are specific to Vietnam vets and are probably free. If the VA can't help you find one, get hold of me and I'll find out where one is near you. But, you need to get into a group that you can share with on a daily basis face-to-face and who can help you get past this persistent feeling. Stick with your flute - even if you don't think you can play well - its therapy. When you played for us at the reunion, it was very soothing and I enjoyed it very much. So much, that I've thought of getting one myself. There is an excellent video on playing that type of flute - let me know and I'll send you a copy!! Also, the photography idea is good!! If you need a better camera, let me know. Both the flute and the photography are excellent ways to relax and take your mind off things. You have lots of brothers here to help out, but you also need to seek out that stress management therapy group!!! Love ya, Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 09:16:49 (MDT)
ray,its time.think back to our conversation last week,when you an gale stayed a few days after the crouse.its time to get into a stress unit.i know what your going through an what you are feeling. i had the same feelings an thoughts you are having now.belivie me ray its time.before i got into the stress unit ,i DID NOT like myself at all, i felt i was below everyone, my life was worthless, i was suffering from suvivior guilt becase of the death of racey while i was home on speical leave , home in the states safe an sound. i always felt that if i asked a favor of someone that i was bothering them, or needed someone to talk to . ray if your day is filled ewith thoughs of veitnam beleave me its time to get into a stress unit, i know pior to getting help , thats all i thought about.an the big thing is i always said to myseft no problem i can handle this, so i thought ray, beleave when i tell you its time its time. hopefully you will raed this sometime today but in any case i will call you tonight. wink 3/69-10/70
wink
lake wales, fl USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 08:46:24 (MDT)
Hi Guys. Back online temporarily with AOL while cable system here is being rebuilt. I am able to keep up with commo again. Would not believe the price gouging going on here. $225+ a square to replace a roof when you can find someone to do it. Roofers have a years worth of work. Shame I am not young and agile enough to do it anymore. I could really supplement my retirement income (ha). Maybe things will get back to normal one day if the current hurricane doesn't decide to come this way. Take care folks
Harrell Guidry
Groves, Tx USA - Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 07:11:26 (MDT)
Cp, I incured no charge.I am just giving back to the family of the 129th.On that note,I must jingle gentle ones chain.Christmas is what(?),about 70 days away? There is a 129th xmas fund.I dont have much,but I plan on sending gently 10 bucks very soon. I hope everyone enjoys the monday night football game tonight,the Colts should have their 6th win. Gooooooo colts.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 18:16:49 (MDT)
Ray, Does your computor have a program that makes "Greetings/Birthday/Sympathy" Cards.... Maybe Decals....... These are things that we all could use, and maybe give you something to do????? Just an idea, but I could use some that are geared to the 129th...... E-mail me if you have any questions......... Fred A. I got the decals you sent...... Now am trying to figure the best way to use them....... Also, you didn't tell me how much I owe you....... Don't want you to think I'm "ripping you off"...... We get enough of that from the spam, and sure don't want it from a "brother"...... Let me know....... Gently, Good to see you post...... have missed you....... Of course your post is trying to help one of our own....... What else would I expect..... Mark, Also miss you....... where are you, and how's things????????? Help us out Mark..... If you don't post, Some of us start worrying about what we've done to upset you....... To all of you........ Our thoughts and prayers are with you....... ktf, Jean & C.P.
C.P.
USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 18:07:24 (MDT)
hi alvis it would mater i like both but i have to get better cameras . my problem is i cant lift mucg. and have a hard time closeing my left hand, my right arm as no mobiltie at alll ont work all the way. i guess i just get frustraded alvis. i cant drive. most of the time i dont even know where iam at when gail and kris tke me out like where the truck is. but i know you been far more than me so i know i should make it. i just havetrouble recalling things, and have a complax i guess. but i do like taken pic and doing things do them i show you one in a email ok if i get your address if you want to see gail said tonight iam wound up so tight and i dont know why. alvis i want you to kow that my prayes and thoughts are with sue, my heart gose out to her and you . well i wenton enough take care my brother know my thoughts are with you both, ray
ray <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 17:51:06 (MDT)
If anyone has a current address for "Terry Walker" from the 129th, please send it to me. His packet came back undeliverable. Thanks. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 15:46:09 (MDT)
digital or regular photography?
alvis
USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 15:10:01 (MDT)
Friends, we need to help Ray find a hobby. As I've told him in the past, there are way too many hours in the day when you have nothing to do; there is too much to think about when you have nothing to do; and when you don't do anything, it's difficult to sleep, muchless get a good nights' sleep. The problem we face is that Ray has a difficult time remembering and is not that agile with his hands any longer. We are therefore left with trying to find him something interesting to do that he is capable of doing. Right Ray:>))) He and I have talked about this and are unable to come up with anything. His learning to play the flute worked, and he still does play it, but he needs more. Please toss some ideas his way to help him with all that he posted as concerns. He's seeing Tom, his Vet Center counselor tomorrow and it would be great if Ray had a acouple of ideas to bounce of Tom. Ray if any one comes up with some ideas make sure you write them down(or cut and paste them) and give them to Tom. We're here for you Ray...L-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 11:45:37 (MDT)
HELLO TO AL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS.HOW ARE YOU ALL DOING. ROB NICE TALKING TO LAST NIGHT. I NEEDED SOMEONE T TALKK TO. . TTE TRUTH IS IAM NOT SURE HOW I AM DOING. I HAVE BEEN A STATE OF DEPRESION FOR A WHILE, I SEE A STHE SHRINK ALLL HE DOSE IS INCREASE MY MED. AT NIGHT TIME I HAVE SOCH DRUGS IN ME IFIND IT HARD TO TALK STRIGHT. I FEEL LIKE CANT EXPLAIN IT. . EVEN MY VET CONSLER SAYS HE IS VERY WORRY ABOUY MY DEPRESSION, HE EVEN CALLS TO SEEHOW I AM. ME AND GAIL WENT ON THAT BOAT RIDE TO THE EASTERN CRABIAN LIKE ST. TOMAS NASSAR . I DIDNT EVEN GET OFF THE BOAT WHEN I AM HOME I SIT ON THE COUCH ALL DAY. I DONT GOOUT. DONT VIST ANY , AND NONE COMES HERE. ITS LIKE I JUST DONT CARE. TOM FROM THE VET CENTER WANTS ME TO GET A HOBBIE, BUT SO FAR CANT FIND ONE YET. I THINK IT IS IAM TRYING TO RECALL WHAT I DID IN NAM. I KNOW I WAS THERE ON THE THINGS YOU TAALK ABOUT. I KNOW I FLEW WITH BILL WOLF AT TIMES AND OTHERS BUT MOSTL ROBIE ,I CALLED HIM. HE COULD NOT RECALL EITHER. I THINK IT BOTHERS ME REAL BAD THAT I CANT RECALL ANY THING. MY MIND IS A BLANK. AS I SAID TOM TOLD ME LAST TIME HE SEEM ME HE IS WORRYEED ABOUT IT. I SEE HIM OMORROW. AND WHEM I CALL SOMEONE I ALWAYS FEEL I AM BOTHERING THEM AND THEY DONT WANT TO TALK TO ME . I FEEL LIKE THE WORLD IS COMING DOWN ON ME OR THE BOTTON IS GOING TO OPEN UPAND I AM FALLING IN. .ITS ATA POINT THAT THE DRs WONT SEE ME UNLESS GAIL IS THERE CAUSE I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT THERE ARE SAYING.AS SOON AS I GOT HOME I CALLED THE DR AND CANSLED THE TEST HE WAS TO DO ON MY BLADER AND DONT KNOW WHY I DID, I KNOW I NEED ITDONE. AT TIMES I JUST DONT CARE ANY MORE SO I IAM POSTING HERE, HOPE IAM NOT BORING YOU . BUT I NEED TO SOMETHING. I TRY SO HARD TO THINK WHAT I DID IN NAM. I KNOW I FLEW TILL DEC. THEN THEY TOOK ME OFF CAUSE I EAS TAKING TIME OF, FOR AT THAAT TIME I REALY THOUGHT STEVE TOOK MY PLACE THAT BOTHER ME SO MUCH. THEN IN EARLY FEB THE 1st SARGET ASKED ME IF I WANED TO GO BACK ON FLIGHT STAUS. I WANTED TO SAY YES SO BAD. BUT SOME HOE NO CAME OUT, NOW I THINK BACK, AND NOW I THINK BACK AND THINK AS MY SELF AS A COWOOD . I SHOULD HAVE SAID YES, THESE DAYS I HAVE NO CONFICINCE IN MY SELK AND DONT THINK EVERY IS ABOVE ME, LIKE TO BE HONEST I DONT THINK MUCH OF MY SELF, I HAVE HIDE IT A LONG TIME AND IT IS STARTING TO COME OUT. SO MANY TIMES I LOOKED UP AT MYPILLS , BUT I NEVER TAKE THEM BUT HE THOUGHT CAME TO ME. I GOT MY WIFE AND GRAND KIDS. I WONT GO ON JUST A REACH OUT AND HARD TO TALK ABOUT, I STAY QUIT, DONT WANT TO SAY SOMETHING WRONG. TAKE CARE ALL A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY. OH KAL NICE TALKING TO YOU. YESTERDAY' I HOPE I DIDNT RUN OFF LAST NIGHT BY TALKING TO YOU LOVE YOU ALL AS YOU KNOW I USULY NEVER REALY POST LIKE THIS, I LET YOU KNOW WHAT THE VET CENTER SAYS I STILL CANT SLEEP AND HAVE NIGHT MEARS NOW I SAY TAKE CARE STAY WELL A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY <STILWTINGWATING@AOL.COM>
MD USA - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 08:00:24 (MDT)
Address Updates Needed!!! Here are return envelopes I've received - if you have new addresses for these folks, please send them to me!!!! North Witcher, Alan Poirier, Rongald Sargent, Glenn Permain,John Logadon, and Michael Stephens. Thanks! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 14:57:37 (MDT)
Hey Flight! Well, Kat and I spent the weekend helping out the 92nd AHC with their reunion. It was a wonderful experience. They had 70 members attend!!! Kat and I did their audio visual work and it was great to meet these guys. Of course, we had our 129th pins on very prominently!!!!!! And as always, the first time reunion'ers said they won't miss another!!! Take care! Bill & Kat
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 14:35:42 (MDT)
Fred A. I got the stickers on Saturday. Thanks for sending them. I did have a yellow one like the red one you sent me which is on my garage door window, but will display that one also. Got to see if the 129th sticker will fit on the helmet ok. What with it being round, it might not work as good as it would on a flat surface. Mark, I agree it's nice when some of the pieces of the puzzle come together. Probably Bud Rainey and Ray Smiley and Pete Rhome and a few of the other guys there in 69 were on that night mission also. Gently, my Brother is to have an MRI done in Oct November some time to see if there is anything left of his cancer. He said he feels a lot better now and just needs to get some more exercise to get into shape. Hopefully they will find nothing on this MRI. Hope all is well with the rest of the flight...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 07:50:06 (MDT)
Don, The man in question has three "first" names. His proper name is James Edward George Jr. As I told Bill, clicking on the a/c # on our memory page and reading the info will clear this up.
Jeff
USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 07:16:24 (MDT)
well it looks like I have another mistake on my page. I have a Raymond James George listed on my page he is listed as 1st AVN BDE. so if GEORGE JAMES EDWARD JR is the name that is listed on our page and he was not a member of the 129th AHC then I actually have a double mistake by not having the right one listed to start with and if GEORGE JAMES EDWARD JR was not one of ours then we do need to remove him from the list. so does that mean we had 36 KIA/MIA or is there someone that we have missed. Bill, if you have a list of names that is more correct than mine please let me know. as I would like my page as correct as possible. oh I got the form you sent to have me fill out I will get it done as soon as I can. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 01:17:14 (MDT)
Bill, Jim has info during '66 & '67, but haven't had an opportunity to write it up. We'll work on that next week. He's composing in his head right now!
Jim Hydinger
USA - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 20:30:51 (MDT)
Jeff, Thanks for the update - guess we need to remove that name from our list of 129th fatalities. GUYS - any one with more history of the 129th than whats on our website - PLEASE send it to me!!!! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 20:00:59 (MDT)
Bill, The James Edward George you are asking about was not a member of the our 129th. Never noticed this before. He was a refrigeration mechanic from the 129th maintenance company from Danang or somewhere up there. He was on a Huey shot down crashed and burned. He was in fact severly burned when he returned to aircraft to get his M14. VC/NVA shot him shortly after capture. Crew was captured and were POW until end of war. Also captured was an LTC someone. One pilot was Roy Zeigler whom I have met. For more info click on a/c tail number on memory page or go to Viet Nam casualty search page and type in his name. Hope this helps. Snapper
Jeff
Lake Norman, NC USA - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 19:56:40 (MDT)
Correction!! I was the AC in the trail ship, not the co-pilot in the lead ship with Roy. Jester
Jester <cobrajester@yahoo.com>
Thailand - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 08:31:19 (MDT)
Cobras, I was co-pilot, with Curt Roy as AC, when Racey got shot and died. Would the co-pilot of Curt Roy's aircraft and the crew chiefs and gunners of both of our aircraft contact me. Use this email or or call me at +66-1-871-5367. My co-pilot on that day is dead. Also, I'd like to get in touch with the crew chief and gunner who were on my aircraft on December 2, 1969 with Curt Roy as the AC and I as the co-pilot, in the LZ English area on a night mission in which we lost our trail ship. and all souls...email me or call me at +661-871-5367. Ron Smith Cobra Jester
Ron Smith <cobrajester@yahoo.com>
khon kaen, Thailand - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 08:21:15 (MDT)
Cp, its in the mailbox.Thanks for the reminder.Jimmy,aka smitty,westwang,Cp jogged my memiory,I will take care of both your request tomorrow,I have the day off. clear
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 07:31:15 (MDT)
Judith, I am fully covered by insurance. Not sure they will cover what the gouging artists want to charge (ha). A lot of the inside work I can do myself, being retired and having a lot of time on my hands. Situation could have been a lot worse. I am healthy (???) and have a house standing. Three towns less than 20 miles from me were totally destroyed. I have a lot to be thankful for. Due to my unit reunion being next labor day I will miss Phoenix. See everyone in 2007.
Harrell Guidry
Groves, Tx USA - Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 05:44:10 (MDT)
I just saw a figure of the raise you guys will get on your va bennies. 4.1 percent. Thats the largest jump since ,i believe,1951,when it was a 5.6 % jump.
alvis
USA - Friday, October 14, 2005 at 21:14:50 (MDT)
Rick, the web site for the Casper Platoon is at < http://www.casperplatoon.com/index.htm > Then click on "Photo Albums"........always
Mark
USA - Friday, October 14, 2005 at 10:51:04 (MDT)
Rick, the web site for the Casoer Platoon is at < http://www.casperplatoon.com/index.htm > Then click on "Photo Albums"........always
Mark
USA - Friday, October 14, 2005 at 10:50:42 (MDT)
NEED SOME INFORMATION HELP: On the 129th "Memory" page, it shows a James Edward George, Jr on board a huey that was shot down. Apparently he was a passanger listed from the "129th Maintenance Company". He was injured severely and the VC shot him rather than take him prisoner. Can someone confirm that he was assigned to OUR 129th or is there a mixup. Thanks. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Friday, October 14, 2005 at 10:46:13 (MDT)
Harrell, thank God you're OK. Do you have insurance to help you recover? And Mr. Paye, so good to hear from you. What would be the cost of a site connected to yours cost? Maybe Fred, Gail and I could get one together. Ah, Fred, the decals you gave out at Kokomo....??? Bill, I don't have any stories related to the 129th in Vietnam, but I hope that those who do share them with you.....I can't wait to read all of them. Smitty, doing OK? Robbie, your brother? All of you and the VA? :>)) Rick, I got your phone messages but was unable to call you back-even collect, which I would not do anyway. I knew you would have a better conversation with Joe, your brother, and you did. I know when to take a step back Rick, and this was one of those times. A brother to brother conversation was more important than a conversation with me. It broke my heart...but it was the correct thing to do. I hope you understand. Ray, sorry your cruise was so awful...try a train next time:>) Love to all-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, October 14, 2005 at 08:27:46 (MDT)
There was a platoon of the 173rd at lane when we were there in 68. I didn't know they had helicopters. I was told they took care of the perremeter. Where can we see the pics? I will look of the 173rd page, Flight be careful outt here
Rick England
USA - Friday, October 14, 2005 at 05:29:40 (MDT)
up date on Susan. I started this update thing on the course of cancer treatments,in dec or jan. Its almost finished,so lets bring things up to date.as you know,chemo (with all its horrors) is finished.Out of 33 treatments of radiation,9 are left.Cost,12,000 dollars.Radiation is something that builds (the side effects) as you go along.It consist mainly of being extremly tired and being " sunburnt".5 per week,till its finished.Susan had to quit work yesterday,she is simply to burnt to wear clothes that rub her.She has 2nd degree burns from her neck thru to her armpit ( limp node removal) to her lower breast.She is in a "body suite",something like cheese cloth or fish net.they have given her some sort of salve,external pain stuff to apply. to put this in perspective,her skin is blue to black to purple in the affective areas.She remains in high spirits and sends her love to all of you.you cant keep a good girl down.Susan sleeps alot,due to the fatigue,and feels guilty about that.Takes lots of reassurance,after all,priorities get changed around during something like this.sorry if i bore anyone with this,but if one person gets early treatment,then "good on you" as Susan says.Bless every single one of you,alvis out.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 22:54:05 (MDT)
anyone else out there i stated I would send decals too? Please remind me if I did,having a bad case of crs.CP,did I say i was going to send you stuff?
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 22:30:39 (MDT)
Hey you guys that were there in 69. Same time Larry was. I have been looking at the Casper Platoon web site. They were the only Helicopter platoon in the 173rd Airborne. Our , now passed away friend, Steve Spencer was in that platoon his second tour. Some of the pictures have captions that say they were at Lane. Do any of you recall the Casper unit being there? Hi Robbie!!!! Aint it great how the pieces of the puzzle fall together at times? I love you brother.........and all the rest, always a brother.
Mark
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 19:14:22 (MDT)
Yea, Robbie, that was about as scared as I've ever been!! But damn it was great!!!! FYI BOOK UPDATE: Have just finsihed the draft of the chapter for 1966 (less your inputs, photos, stories). Come on gang - get to work!!! lol Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 16:57:04 (MDT)
Bill Wolf, I read your short story about the night rescue, and My ship "Bulldog 265" was actually chalk 1 on that mission. I was flying resupply with Mr. Sykes when we heard the call about that ship going down. We were in the middle of carrying one of those big balls of concertina wire to the Koreans and Mr. Sykes said we're getting rid of this wire and refueling and then going out. We punched the wire off in their compound while we were still on short final and the Koreans were scrambling to get out of the way. When it got dark, Major Cooper met us at POL and got in the AC seat and Sykes moved over. The pp sat in the middle. I was pissed because the major got a D.F.C. for flying for about 1/2 hour. Mr. sykes told me to let it go because Majors and up had to get so many medals while they were there and that's how he got his. I agree with you though, the pucker factor was real high when we saw those green tracers coming up at us and could hear that thunk when they were hitting the ship.....I didn't know you were on that mission too. Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 14:26:46 (MDT)
Fred, thanks for the quick response and I'll be looking for them in the box out by the road..I really appreciate it.... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 13:45:06 (MDT)
Hey Flight - I'm trying to get some specific info on a Lt. Edwin Steven Brague, Jr who was killed on January 7, 1967. It appears from the brief record I have that he was hit by small arms fire while flying. Anyone have a little more specific information? Thanks. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 12:28:28 (MDT)
robbie,3 stickers are in it.two different ones from Phil,which I gave out at kokomo reunion and one my son in law to be made up for us,which I gave out at the texas reunion,which is based on the work of Animal.ok,gotta get to work now,out.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 12:09:04 (MDT)
its going to salmon rd addy.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 12:05:03 (MDT)
better yet,Robbie, its in the mail box now,awaiting the carrier,should be in saterdays mail,monday latest,again,sorry buddy.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 12:04:09 (MDT)
crap robbie,sorry buddy,your right,it did slip my mind.Will post tommorow,promise.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 11:54:45 (MDT)
Bill W. I got your packet and have been working on it. Will get it out as soon as I can. Fred A, I know you have a lot on your mind and have had some hard times and I hope you start having some good luck towards the end of this year. You asked me about my address in early September concerning 129th stickers from Phils Web site. Did you receive them or were you just anticipating getting them in the near future? Again, my address in the contacts list is accurate, and if you do have them I could send you a check or $$ to have them sent. Not trying to rush you, just thinking how good it will look on the back of my helmet. I wish this damn rain would move off the east coast. I haven't seen the sun in over a week...Hope the rest of the flight is doing ok...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 11:51:59 (MDT)
if vhpa is in on this,count me the hell out. They can kiss my stinking ass.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 22:00:19 (MDT)
Good news from Kokomo. Howard county VVA has purchased 14 more acres. It will be used for camping and parking. They haven't decided how it will be appropriated yet. If anyone from the 129th is interested in acquiring a camp site let me know and I will keep you updated. We should be able to get spots adjacent to our present camping LZ. Love and Brotherhood.
Ron Paye
Indy, USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 19:28:19 (MDT)
Bill, I got your packet the other day. I was there in 71, April thru November. I haven't gotten into a writing mood yet, but I hope to contribute something soon...... Alvis, the 'problem' of illegal immigrants won't be solved as long as the money people have a use for an underclass to abuse financially; day labor, housekeepers, things like that. It's another way to keep wages down, and it impacts all of us, in some fashion. Question: to what extent would any of us go to provide for our own?
Kim
livermore, Me USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 18:54:10 (MDT)
Need some historical info. I'm working on the 129th history, but have a lot of gaps. I've downloaded the info available from here, but here's the gaps: 1967-need last half of the year; Have nothing for 1969; very limited for 71, nothing for 72 and 73. If you have any historical info or can point me in the right direction it would be helpful. I have already reviewed the cdrom made by VHPA and have that stuff. Please send me anything you have to my email address. Thanks. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 12:58:46 (MDT)
ATTENTION ON THE FLIGHT DECK!! Book update: I've sent out about 100 mailings to date and another 55 are going out today. These include the information I need from you guys to include in our 129th book (you can see the cover at http://www.VietnamHeloReunion.com/book.htm). I've been gathering and cataloguing everything I can find about the 129th and its been VERY interesting. I want our book to be a legacy we leave behind for future generations - and I'll need your help to do it. If you haven't received anything from me within the next week, please get a hold of me. Thanks! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 09:10:43 (MDT)
When thinking about,to many of you ,it makes sense that I would be into immigration sites,at some point or another,still. This is true.Today,I found that according to immigration,this year there have been MORE illegal aliens come into this country than legal ones for the FIRST time in history of this country.Also there has been a drop off in legal aliens.Think about that for a second.Undoubtedly,the greatest source of illegal aliens is from across the mexican border.While many of these folks simply want good honest work,at fair pay,just how many can we afford to "look the other way on"?Mexico's second largest source of national income,after oil sales,is from monies sent home from here.Now friends, that money is no longer in our national,nor local economy,its gone.Forever.As much as this disturbs me,espically when once I was told by an illegal,"screw this country,Iam just here to make money,I couldnt care less if you were invaded",its the other folks slipping across the borders that worry me.Those intent on doing harm.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 18:15:03 (MDT)
MARK: do a search for virtual vietnam archive. the site is located at texas tech university, so i believe site would be ttu.edu,the search should take you to it easier.ANIMAL:i ran across somebody that lives in hi that was in 498th 69 - 70, if i remember correctly you said you were there about that time. would you like the persons email address.if so send your addy to idapaul & yahoo.com
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 11:37:19 (MDT)
Mark - try Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Tx. They have a large Vietnam repository. Bill
Bill Wolf
USA - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 08:53:14 (MDT)
Mark...I'll do a little research and see what I can find out about that Texas college. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 08:36:29 (MDT)
http://tapscottscopydesk.blogs
Animal
USA - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 00:54:14 (MDT)
Alvis, I found a blog that is relevent to your earlier post about the Oklahoma student. He pretty much supports your friends information using interviews with locals. I don't know how accurate it is, but thought you might want to check it out: , Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 00:52:46 (MDT)
Does anybody remember that web address for the Texas college that has some of the 129th in it's history section?
Mark
USA - Monday, October 10, 2005 at 19:02:03 (MDT)
Com-on Bill,try and see how fast you can make it down Ute Pass.Going up is the easy part.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 10, 2005 at 16:35:24 (MDT)
May God grant you peace.Toasting popeye with a cold beer,see you my friend.Popeye was buried today across from fort Bragg main gate.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 10, 2005 at 16:33:12 (MDT)
Tippin' a can of Root Beer for Pop-Eye.............
Mark
USA - Monday, October 10, 2005 at 15:34:56 (MDT)
Thank you Bill for the DVDs I will get on it soon I will try and finish it up this week.Flight be careful out there A toast to Popeye today at 5 pm eastern time.
Rick England
USA - Monday, October 10, 2005 at 09:21:35 (MDT)
IT SNOWED!!!! Now that may not seem like a big deal to some of ya, but to someone who lived 54 years in Southern California, its terrific!!! Colorado Springs is covered in a blanket of snow and its like Christmas! Of course, there's now way I'll drive in it - but I have plenty of scotch and two fat little dogs (and lots of recipies)!!
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 10, 2005 at 07:06:11 (MDT)
ATTENTION FLIGHT: Paul Tenhet (aka "LOU") is the first to return his 129th Book packet!!! Way to go Paul. NOW.....I need all of you to get your packets completed and returned asap. If you haven't received one in the next ten days, let me know so I can find out where it went astray. I've sent out over 90 snail mails and emails and another 40 are going out in the next few days. This book will be our "record" for future generations. I was proud of my 129th service and I know all of you were - so GET TO WORK!! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 19:23:40 (MDT)
Animal,when I read it this morning,posted by a freind of mine.I just went to the site and I too,didnt see anything about arabs being involved.Sooo,I aplogise about depensing wrong info.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 17:19:25 (MDT)
Hey guys. Finally back to a computer. Had a better look at the house today. Major water damage and mold has started to take over. Didn't lose any furniture or posessions though. Was lucky to get out and be healthy. All the rest of the stuff can be replaced. Very sorry to hear about Popeye. I enjoyed the golf tourney and associating with him. Hand salute Popeye. Rest in Peace.
Harrell Guidry
Groves, Tx USA - Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 16:10:04 (MDT)
Alvis, All I can find out about the OK student is that he was troubled and commited suicide. The news articles I've seen don't indicate any al-Quaida connection or attempt to get into the stadium. What are your sources ? I don't trust the mainstream media, but am interested in what really happened. Respectfully, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 14:41:28 (MDT)
Hey Flight....working on this 129th book is very interesting. Here's something I learned (you probably knew this)...The bird on the 1st Avn Bdge patch is not an eagle - it is a falcon! It was designed by Lt. Col Jerry Curry. At his CO's direction, a falcon was to be part of the design!!! But, that still won't stop folks from calling it "Chicken on a stick!" lol. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 11:22:32 (MDT)
a guy was turned away (twice)from the Kanas/oklahoma game cause he wouldnt let security search his backpack.MKinutes later,he was killed by an explosion.He had attempted to get into the stadium,with 80 thousand attending fans.In his backpack was an amoniaous nitrate bomb.This was a white college kid.Seems his room mate was/is an arab belonging to al kida.The kid was a willing victum(?).The money trail leads to a mesulem church in oklahoma city,that has been involved in funding other acts of terroisim.What in the heck was this kid thinking?No one was told about the blast untill minutes before the game ended,then fans were held up about 30 minutes.Can you imagene the panic in that stadium if the bomb had gone off there?People panicing and running over each other,ect.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 07:19:38 (MDT)
Slow hand salute to the crew of 932. May they never be forgotten. Bill, I will send you Pete's add. to your email address...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Saturday, October 08, 2005 at 12:27:02 (MDT)
Pete Rhome - need your snail mail address. The one I have for you is apparently an old one (or if anyone else has it). Thanks. Bill Wolf
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, October 08, 2005 at 08:00:59 (MDT)
I'll be visting the "Healing " Wall tonight...I will sit with Popeye in front of the panel that lists our 64-13932 friends and brothers...and feel very sad. But I've got his back tonight guys. You rest. L-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, October 07, 2005 at 13:17:29 (MDT)
Today is the 39th aniversary of our first kia's in the 129th.Chamberlin,Whetzel,Gilliam and Neal. 10/07/66. You will never be forgotten. Always A Brother Alex. PS!!! Kat you and Bill put it best. I was never that good with words.
Alex
USA - Friday, October 07, 2005 at 10:32:43 (MDT)
Steff...may you be blessed for loving Popeye thru the end and may you receive strength to take you thru his loss. He was an example to us all to live whatever time we have to the fullest. I hope we remember this gift he gave us. I know we will always remember him.
Kat Wolf <wolfsfire7@aol.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Friday, October 07, 2005 at 09:51:48 (MDT)
Flight, as we mourn the passing of Popeye, I think its important that we ALL take a lesson from him - live every day to its fullest. Each of us has been dealt a different hand in life. It is often confusing why some of us seem to be blessed with good health and others of us suffer frustrating ailments. But we all share two things here....first, we shared one of the most intense experiences a person can - combat. Second, because of that experience, we made friendships that will last a life time. The last is a gift to be cherished. Popeye...I knew you for only a few hours, but will remember you for a lifetime. Fly with the angels. For the rest of us, live each day to the best - its a gift! Love you all, Bill Wolf
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Friday, October 07, 2005 at 09:41:07 (MDT)
Mark appreciate you posting the information that I sent you about popeye's arrangements. As I look back at the reunion in June, which wasn't very long ago. Jimmy asking Steff to marry him was one of the highlites. They were sitting right behind me at the dinner dance. We congradulated both of them . You could tell the happiness in both of them. I am glad to have had the opportunity of knowing Jimmy Sanders. It's an honor and he will be missed. Alvis don't talk negative. I plan on you being around a while longer. I remember your first reunion in Louisville. You were kind of laid back an checked things out. And before I knew it you were gone. These last few years have been tough on me. Personally knowing many of our Brother whom gone to the Fiddler's Green. I pull from all my 129th Family strength to help me make it through these tuff times. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Friday, October 07, 2005 at 08:46:12 (MDT)
Aloha Popeye
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Friday, October 07, 2005 at 01:29:41 (MDT)
Rick, I forwarded an email to you about a collection of popeye,s poems.This is making sure you got the email and asking if you need any more help along those lines.Your friend and bro.,alvis
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 20:17:41 (MDT)
I don't write very often, but I read the posts all the time. Today I have to say something. I didn't know him very well, I just met him at the last reunion. But he was a guy I won't forget. Within 1/2 an hour it seemed like I had known him for ages. His stories, and the way he told them brought me back 30 years. I went to the reunion thinking I would have a good time seeing Rick England and Bill French, close friends I served with back in 68. I had no idea of the new friends I would find at the reunion. Within an hour of sitting around in the room talking I realized coming to the reunion was the best thing I have done for myself in many years. Meeting people like Popeye and the rest of you guys and gals changed the way I look at a lot of things. He will be sorly missed even to a new friend and brother like me. The cav lost one of their best. I am going home tonight and put on some old home movies and have a toast to Jimmie Sanders, Steph, and the rest of you brothers. Bill Whelan
Bill Whelan <bwhelan@theprintingworks.net>
Elk Grove Village, Il USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 18:14:48 (MDT)
Slow Hand Salute to Popeye.Funeral Home......Rogers & Breece......500 Ramsey St.......... Fayetteville, NC 28301........910-483-2191.......Wake: Sunday Oct. 9 7 - 9 PM........ Internment:....Monday Oct. 10, 2005 ......2:00 PM......Donations To:...The American Cancer Society in the name of Jimmie Sanders.....Flowers are requested to be Red White & Blue arrangements only..............always a brother
Mark
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 18:05:19 (MDT)
Slow hand salute to Popeye from a Brother.....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 17:38:56 (MDT)
popeye and I shared a common enemy.he and I had gone thru pretty much the same thing,I led the way that time.You see,Popeye and contracted hep B and C ,like me,during his time is service/nam.We both went thru the treatment.I was one of the first,experimental drugs to get it fda approved. popeye recieved 100% rating from v.a.,I was told it wasnt service connected.Popeye was geting back to me with the paperwork and forms,he ran out of time.Many of the things I learned about hep b and c,espically c,was that many vietnam vets have it.It takes 30 years to start distroying your system.One of the side effects,is the tendency for hep c victims to get liver cancer.I fear that popeye is leading the way for me this time,I hope not.He showed bravery untill the end,never giving up,still wanting to see his brother vets.Its with pride I say he is my friend.He didnt deserve the terrible ending that was in the cards for him.I hope when my time comes, I can show the courage,strenght,dignity and brotherhood that warrior showed.I ahve one more reason to vist the wall,one last time.i have another friend to have a toast with.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 15:57:47 (MDT)
We Shared a Dinner table at the Reunion, i found out what nice people Popeye & Steph Are, You will be sorely missed & a Respectful Salute Mr. Sanders & my Heartfelt Condolences to Steph. I never saw the stills of the proposal that i took with Popeyes camera but i just hope they turned out for Her.>>Love & respects>>>Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 15:48:49 (MDT)
Slow Hand Salute to Popeye Jimie Sanders. Fly High Bro!!! Will post more info tonight when I get in from work about the funeral. Alex
Alex
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 15:25:07 (MDT)
a slow,respectful hand salute for that cav,loach gunner,ever smiling,my friend,popeye/Jimmy Sanders.The vietnam veterans community, is indeed, a much poorer palce.We will miss you buddy.See you at LZ fiddlers green.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 14:56:03 (MDT)
Slow hand salute to Popeye - fly with the angels! Bill
Bill Wolf
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 14:01:54 (MDT)
slow hand salute ................ for Popeye. just received a call from Alex and he told me he passed last night in his sleep. see you on the other side Bro.
Don Miller
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 12:53:29 (MDT)
Some of us have heard the phrase, "Fiddler's Green". For those who are not familiar with this term, here is a short explanation that was posted on the internet. As well as British sailors, the US Army has long claimed it (the term Fiddler's Green), to the extent that some people have argued that it originated there. A famous ballad of the US Cavalry begins: Halfway down the road to hell, In a shady meadow green, Are the souls of all dead troopers camped Near a good old-time canteen. And this eternal resting place Is known as Fiddler's Green. The author is unknown. It was first published in a US Cavalry Manual in 1923, but could possibly be a century older; we’ve no idea whether this is the original, or whether the author was drawing on something even older.
Bill Wolf
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 09:41:16 (MDT)
Rick, will get them made up and send them. Are you still on Denver Hill? It will have the following videos: 1. The 129th collage we showed during the reunion 2. The collage I put together after the reunion 3. The Memorial video (Mansions of the Lord) 4. The promo for the 2006 VHCMA reunion If anyone else would like a dvd, please email me with your snail mail address. There's no cost - its my pleasure and honor. Bill Wolf
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 09:09:19 (MDT)
It was year this month Rick Vogel called me to tell me that Bob Hiendrich died now him Dutch hoagie and popeye are at fiddlers green. Bill could you cut me 2 copies of the reunion video I will pay you for them I would appreciate it. My puter and shakey's puter are too slow. Shakey's puter isn't working. I just called shakey to tell him about Popeye. These are sad times. Bill I might be a little late in writing this form about our lives. Please be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 07:03:37 (MDT)
hi ho,hi ho, its 5:30am and off to stinking work I go.Have a good day,flight.
alvis
USA - Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 04:33:59 (MDT)
Was my pleasure, brothers. I am fortunate to have had the chance to sit with them at the dinner table and got to know them. Bill
Bill Wolf
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 21:26:06 (MDT)
Bill,thank you for the video on your site.Doug ward is taking a downloaded copy to popeyes house tomorrow.Time is of the essance now,perhaps,they can view it together ,one last time.maybe not.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 20:13:15 (MDT)
alex, i was in the bening area till jan 14th 1971,thats when I went in.dad worked main post commissary ,.and my brother had a route job that took him to the OCS barracks weekly.I used to go with him sometimes.Spent my beer gathering hours in sandhill.worked harmony church for a while in a construction job.Didnt spend to much time in phonix city,except at the drag strip.
alex
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 20:10:10 (MDT)
Fred: Thanks for the update on Popeye. Don't seems like all this could happen since the 3rd week of June. Our Thoughts and Prayers go out to Popeye and Steff. Fred 40 years ago in few weeks Rainer, Glenn and I were in the 129th. You were probably still in the Benning area when I came back in 66. Alex
Alex
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 18:54:11 (MDT)
Thanks bill.I viewed it,then posted the site on helivets.I also ask the visitors to respect the site as well as the movie.Hey,you going to put Phils site on your site?Alot of 129thers are on the video,you guys check it out.Even Susan is on it,way in the background
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 18:00:23 (MDT)
If anyone would like to view the proposal by Popeye to Steph and/or download a copy, you can go to http://www.VietnamHeloReunion.com/book.htm then look for a small silver dot next to the bottom right corner of the green book cover (there's no label). You can left click to watch it or right click to "Save Target As". I'll leave it on there for a while as we keep Popeye in our prayers and thoughts as well as Steph. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 16:50:22 (MDT)
40 years ago,and 3 weeks,I was in possesion of a new learners permit.Learned on Dads work car,a old ragged,6 cylinder,2 speed automatic,four door,53 chevy.Twas a big difference between that and moms car,a sky blue,again 4 door,3 on the tree,352 powered,with overdrive,61 ford fairlane. woooo hoooo.Now that old ford could squall them tires and get up to 60 mph in second gear.(never with mom in the car,nor within sight,or hearing).Now,when running with the boys,it was dads old chevy,straight out to fort benning to get us some G.I.s to buy us some 3.2 beer with the change we had scraped up ,somehow always enough to get a case.Now when going out on a date,high styling in moms 61 fairlane.Back seat was just enough for some drive in theater, back seat sports.turn on the am radio for the lastest rocking tunes,like RINGO by Lorrine Green,or perhaps Jay and the Americans,Jan and Dean singing about the latest hot car,our maybe even the beach boys asking Rhonda for a little help.go little honda and leader of the pack,Dave clark five bopping to shaking all over.Solider boy,being near ft benning,was on alot.This diamond ring was out sung by jerry and loved the new stuff by the beu brumbles.History teacher was driving one fine new 65,green,fastback vette,seems her husband got killed during that year,flying helicopters in some place called vietnam.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 16:46:19 (MDT)
if you havent gotten his addy yet,its 500 longleaf Road, sw pinehurst,NC.28374.I believe he si staying at his wifes(stef)house.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 15:42:04 (MDT)
bill,lielah says you guys finely made contact.good going bro.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 14:57:36 (MDT)
BOOK UPDATE.....Okay, sent out 47 letters and about 25 emails yesterday. Am sending out another 36 letters today. If you don't receive your email or snailmail in the next 10 days, please let me know. I'm really counting on all of you to fill out the information and get it back to me. I've spent the last week collecting historical data, downloading stories, poems, photos, etc. Please keep in mind that I will need to get a release for every photo, story, poem, etc used for the book - those releases will be sent to you when I send you a draft to review/approve. I'll keep you update on the project. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 14:08:04 (MDT)
If someone will send me Popeye's snailmail address, I will send another copy of the proposal video asap. Kat and I will pray for both Popeye and Steph and know that even when he takes his final flight, he will be gone, but never forgotten!!
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 12:43:46 (MDT)
fred S.,you are right on the button.We,as veterans,need to send a strong message to congress,remember us or you are out!
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 09:50:33 (MDT)
sad news gone worse,popeye,according to stef,might not make it thru the weekend.His lifes journey is very near the end.For those that dont know popeye,he was a loach gunner in the cav,in nam.His father served 3 tours as a demo guy,always exciting work.Popeye is battleing liver,limp node and lung cancer.Bill Wolf,they would dearly love to have a copy of the wedding,as theirs was lost.They have been married 3 weeks now.I will try and get den mum ward to post in the reunion sie ot get with you. RICK England,can you handle this exchange of info...you have more time than me,stupid work gets in the way of life.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 09:48:27 (MDT)
Dismantling VA Larry Scott | September 29, 2005 The Senator's aide chuckled rather loudly and said, "What VA? By the time this administration is done there won't be a VA." Our conversation had begun with a discussion of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA's) healthcare budget, and quickly came down to a single, simple point. VA is being dismantled......................WTF!!!!! Man these guys need to be shot.....I`m so sick of hearing what these fucking clowns are saying......about there is "more in the budget" for the VA than ever.......I swear to God , if we don`t start voting these SOB politicians out , be it democrat or republican. We better get with these young brothers coming back, and give them the 411......We`re going to have to "take what we are owed" by force.
Fred Skaggs
Summit, NJ USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 09:21:30 (MDT)
Flight: Let go of the VHPA. You won't change it. Most of us are part of the VHCMA and all are welcome. I was proud to serve as your as President and now as a Past President. Be proud that you can put your feelings aside and Welcome our Pilots to the 129th. This is the only organization that Welcomes everyone. Our fellow Brothers that we served with Pilot,Crewchief,Gunner,Maintence,Cooks or any other mos includind Shit burning. Also includes Family and friends of our KIA/MIA. My heart is heavy with pain. the year has been a tough one for 129th friends and Families. Susan,Charlie Rains,Popeye and others. We have been blessed to have shared time with these Brothers and Sisters. Some are making a recovery and others are awaiting their last Flight. We still have alot of Brothers out there we need to find. Time is running out!! Were losing our Brothers at a alarming rate. Rick I know you are close to Popeye. I'm here for you. Well heading for the PTSD clinic at the VA hospital. Remember Friday 10/7 the crew of 64-13932 Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 08:32:23 (MDT)
sounds from vietnam...and the music too.taking fire,maydays ,ect...http://www.manchu.org/sounds/
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 07:39:06 (MDT)
am not quite sure,but phil may be seeking 129th photos for his site. will up date when answer is forthcomming.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 07:17:07 (MDT)
Mark, Phil has ask for a web link to be added here to his site.I am for it,but its your site/decision.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 06:39:16 (MDT)
Subject: Re: [HV] NEWS ON POPEYE Date: Oct 4, 2005 10:25 AM CB, Me think's you take death far to seriously. Popeye and I had our go-rounds, but I always's respected his zest for living whatever life he had left in his allotment. He fought one hell of a battle with HEP a few years ago. He has long known every day was a gift and he lived them with zest, his way. We were all happy to see how Stef calmed the hyperactive old fart and rejoiced in his happiness. Now I did rib him a couple weeks ago about his buds looking in after his widow, but that was to get him to dig in his heels. I make no apology and would do the same again, 'cuz I know he took it as a compliment and is just as crude as I am, I know Doug gave him great peace with his Baptism and his only regret will be leaving his new found Stef. When it came to jerking chains, Popeye had "time in grade". I know that's how he want's to go. Rasty Roy Popeye was known by allot of people Dutch Covert and Hoagie I both met in Charlotte NC You rmemeber Mark.I met you and Alex Shakey Wink and I can't forget Frenchie that crown royal You thought you had a orgasium is that how you spell it??????hehehehehhe hey Gale I haven't seen you lately are in the garage agin. heheheheheheheWell this is about commo If anybody needs anything you call bulldog thats what Tino calls me. You remebere Tino. I told you I flunk english.I 'm wirting a long commo like the the rest of you I am not sure how. herhehehehehehe..,.....You';ll get over it. The heads room will be open to celibrate popeye's entrance to the tarveran at Fiddlers Green. I don't care if you are cav or 1st Brigade or grunt or artillery no matter what. We are all welcome. Flight be carefu out there. CLEAR LEFT
Rick England
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 23:44:21 (MDT)
I remember when we had to salute cars! Anything with a blue post tag on the bumper was to be saluted. At Ft. Useless, we made a game out of guessing where the occifers would be shifting, and stand at the spot, just to make them miss a shift :>)) A lot of the young butter bars and wo's had sports cars, which all had standards in them. I can't think of a pilot who tried to laud it over us em types. Officer's in general were the enemy,though, seems that anyone below the rank of bird colonel was bucking for something, 1st looneys were downright dangerous as platoon leaders, and weren't good for much more than getting people killed!....most fun I had stateside was acting as aggressor forces against OCS candidates at Benning. Capture them and abuse them, catch them in the backblast of a reckless rifle, sabotage their bivouac sites......aahhhhhhh :>)) As for pilots, I happen to know that any damn fool can be a pilot, I get reminded of that whenever I look in the mirror! Doing the job right, and retaining the respect of the guys in back, now, that's priceless!!!!!!! Tom Roy,(REGENT) I still love you...Alemaster, Baron, Innkeeper, soothsayer, Jester, Bishop, Knight...thanks for keeping me alive, I can only hope that I lived up to your standards.
Kim
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 18:52:07 (MDT)
What i see is that i like some people & some not. Some people like me & some do not. Rank makes little difference. It is a shame that the VHPA is Exclusive while ours is not but thats the way it is. We all sure needed each over over there. I must remember that while i was a good crew chief & a better mechanic, I was a Lousy Soldier. Maybe some Officers are better Soldiers. Mark, Thank you for putting it so well. It seems that when we get out of ourselves or Full of ourselves, God has the answer. By the way, Have I told you I love you ALL today (gotcha Mark)>>>>> Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 16:14:17 (MDT)
What someone said about the Army having something to do with separation of ranks, brain washing comes to mind....................short story, I was a SP/5 and ran into a buddy from home at Lane who was a WO in '68. I don't mean just a buddy, but, I delivered papers for his Dad, shot marbles with him and his brother and I believe graduated in the same class. I ran into him on the steps going down to the Mess Hall and I felt like he didn't want to be seen talking to me. I invited him down to the hooch that night. Of course, he denied and said "why don't you come up to my hooch." Needless to say, I didn't go....................WO Taylor Conley, you can kiss my ass!! I could have went to WO school at Rucker as easy as the next guy....I decided not to. I love the pilots of the 129th that I've met so far and I hope you take no offense. Proud to be a "GIB"!!! Gale 67-68
Gale
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 15:04:42 (MDT)
moniter blacking out more and more...will soon go bad.I point the finger at the vhpa,not the guys in it.99.99% of them are great guys.sorry if your pissed off Lou,I wasnt ever pointing a finger at you,nor making any personel remarks about you or your character.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 12:09:47 (MDT)
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (New International Version) New International Version (NIV) Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society............................. 12. Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.................................. GIB+GIF+UH-1H = A cord of 3 strands
Mark
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 09:39:33 (MDT)
Our prayers and thoughts are with Popeye. I do have the video I took of the proposal and will keep it safe for all. I also hope we can let go of the "Pilots vs. Crew" issue. At this point in our lives we need to facilitate the healing not the fighting - we all had enough of that! I think one of the folks hit the nail on the head that the Army back then promoted that "separation". Maybe it's our job now to undo that to the extent we can. As is often the case, I think the organization (VNPA) is more the problem than most of its member pilots. I truly enjoyed reuniting with our pilots at the last reunion and hope to meet many more in the future. Okay, off my soap box!! Miss you all! Bill
Bill & Kat <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 08:47:31 (MDT)
My prayers for Popeye. Damn. Rick please call your brothers, or Joe, to help you through these times. You are not alone, so don't be alone. Kal, you sound on the mend:>)and Amen to that. Fred, what is the update with Susan? Let's get that helicopter to Hawaii and visit Animal:>))) No hotel or food expenses, just airfare. Right Animal?! And on this Friday...remember them...they are at Peace... so please try to find alittle of it yourselves. With gentle thoughts-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 07:59:53 (MDT)
Popeye is out of the hospital and hospice has taken over. this is a rough time I am not sleeping and nothingis helping.*******The pilots I knew were good people but there was a unspoken feeling of seperation there. I wish we could have been more friendly. Since I have been with the vhcma and helivets there is still that seperation between the vhpa and the vhcma that I don't understand. Our pilots that came to the reunion from the 129th it is diffrent. I enjoy there presence and company. The army had something to do with that seperation back then. In my opinion all we need to care about is the our brothers that do show up with us and I love them as a brother. Cloear left and be careful out there. Popeye is not giving up. Doug Ward is going back up there to help Steph.
Rick England
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 03:42:13 (MDT)
Jesus Christ.Many of us watched popeye get down on bended knee to ask stef to marry him,at the reunion.Smitty took pictures as well as Bill Wolf.Many of our ladies had tears in their eyes for the happy moment.The man looked,and acted,healthy as a horse.no one had a clue,including them.that was in june of this year.popeye will be lucky if he makes xmas.I know he is a friend,a good friend,to rick england as well as myself.Cancer sucks big time.Spence hit Susan hard.you guys get checked out and please,please,have you ladies checked out as well.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, October 04, 2005 at 02:02:01 (MDT)
If I may wade into the fray.........There were sure pricks of all ranks (and good people as well), but I have to say that the officer corps had more than it's share. Maybe there was a course at OCS called " If you have one, be one"...LOL. At least in VN, time in country counted for a lot of respect. A FNG of any rank was still a FNG, and a short timer just didn't much give a shit ( except to get home!). I remember a newbee Capt. that was made 1st platoon leader and was totally clueless. He couldn't set a Huey down from a hover without bouncing it along for a few meters, and then would get on the GIB for clearing him down on rough terrain. ("But sir, I cleared you down way back there") What I think is the VHPA attracts more RLO's and the pilots comfortable in the crew association were mostly Warrants. Am I right? anyway, so long and my prayers go out to Popeye........ Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 23:59:08 (MDT)
Thats right Kal,vhcma welcomes all.vhpa can still kiss my stinking butt.Crew members were enlisted people,not pilots,according to vhpa.ahh,the hell with it.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 21:41:25 (MDT)
popeye update.I hate to be the bearer of bad news.Hospice has been called in and popeye will be discharged to them.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 21:34:12 (MDT)
Kal thanks for the good words about myself and Mark. Mark had his dream of a web site honoring his Brother LARRY!! And mine was finding the Brothers that I served with. Once I found the VIETNAM HELICOPTER CREWMEMBER ASSO. and seeing these units having these mini reunions. And after to talking to Mark. He started posting the info for all to have. We have the 129th Asso. that Fred Alvis worked so hard on. Bill Wolf with his projects. Brothers we are fortune to have found so many. When I dided to have the 129th reunions for was for 129th. All crew members and everyone else assoiated with the 129th. It didn't matter if you flew, burn shit or whatever. It took all of us as team to perform our jobs. Were getting older and becoming a dying group of Veterans. Our time is limited. Kal put it right THE PILOT'S ASSO. for Pilot's. We are the Crew members ASSO. For all Crew members. Alex
Alex
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 18:38:51 (MDT)
Hey Flight....I usually dont get involved in the "political" discussions, but have had a couple scotches so my resistance to "shut up" is diminished!! lol Anyways, several folks have hit the mark: We were a team...we survived by standing by each other - pilots and crew. Yes, I remember one pilot who was a butt-head...but most were great and respected the Crew's work. But this has been an age old issue - "Who owns the aircraft?" - this is what it came down to.....we Crew Chiefs owned it on the ground and the pilots owned it in the air. Bottom line....we were a team! I respected the pilots for their skill and I know they respected us for our dedication to making sure those flying contraptions stayed in the air (mostly). We survived by being a team - lets not disintegrate now! Bless you all. Bill Wolf
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 18:11:59 (MDT)
Kal, Please send me your email address so I can send you info on the 129th book I'm working on - need as many participants as possible!!!
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 17:58:54 (MDT)
Hello all my 129th brother and sisters.. It has been a while and things are on the mend. I have the cast off of my hand now and am back to work. Being off work with a broken thumb is not as nice as it sounds due to the limits of what you can do one handed. It is suprising how limited you are without a thumb and as strange as it sounds I am glad to be back working. Everything is not completely OK yet but is getting better every day. Fred, I have to weigh in on your dislike for the VHPA... I was a member once and attended a reunion also but have to admit that I was not impressed and have not been back. I must say also that their name, "Vietnam Helicopter PILOTS Association" is pretty much a statement of who they are. As with many other groups they limit their membership to a spacific group of people and I can't see where you should have a problem with that. If the "GIB" were to form a group that only GIBs could be members of I don't think there would be too many GIFs hurt or bothered by not being able to join as they wern't GIBs. I am very happy that there is a "Vietnam Helicopter CREW MEMBERS Association" that I can be a member of because even though I was a GIF I was a crew member also. I don't care if you were a GIF or a GIB as long as you were at Lane field and in some way were a 129th associate. The VHPA's reunion is aprox twice as big as the VHCMA's but I think due to the fact that the 129th brotherhood has a mini reunion in conjunction with it makes it a LOT more fun. I feel in most respects it is by far a better reunion and to me the one of choice and I am looking foreward to Pheonix in June. I also don't feel that they are an elietist group as stated but just limit their membership to a spacific group of people. We are all intitled to feel as we do but must say that this in not justified. I am most thankful to Mark and Alex for getting the 129th bunch together and giving us a place to meet and carry on. Since I have found the 129th familey I have found that I have a different outlook on life and something to look foreward to each day. Reading the posts and meeting the people has added a "spice" to my life. Even though I don't agree with all that is said I find it interesting to see what others have to say and try to see things as they say it. Enough for now.. Think "Pheonix" in June.... Love and Brotherhood .... Kal - 67/68
Kal Bergstrom 67/68
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 17:56:28 (MDT)
129th BOOK UPDATE: Here's the latest status of the 129th book - initial mailing to 129th'ers going out tomorrow via snail mail / some sent today by email. I have put a copy of the draft book cover on my website: http://www.VietnamHeloReunion.com/book.htm I'll keep you all posted on the progress. Please be patient as this project will take time to do right. Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 15:13:55 (MDT)
Alex, I fully agree.There were some excellent pilots.Every pilot i have met since returning has been "brother to brother" or "we were one crew then,and one crew now."The pilots I have met again after all these years have been very kind and i am glad to renew the friendship.There are however,a few elitelist out there.I do realize that pilots had much more training together and went thru much more as time passed.Old flight school training classes,ect,should be remembered.Its the vhpa org that wears the high hat.I know of pilots that have for years fought to have reunions together but get shouted down.Shadow,Alton page,is one of those I looked forward to metting agin,and was not in any way isappointed.Erect,dignified,respectful,a gentleman in every sense of the word.And he still had that smile that could charm the ruby red shoes away from the wicked witch of the west.
alvis
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 10:48:42 (MDT)
Well, Alvis, I for one(and all the pilots I knew) have never given a thought to looking upon any crew member as different or of lesser importance than another. We depended on the backseat guys to provide reliable aircraft and to help get us all safely in and out of every landing site and conversely the back seat guys depended on the front seat guys to make the right decisions and keep the aircraft in one peice. It took everyone working together to get the job done. I personally don't think the VHPA is an elitist group just because they formed their own organization and I really don't see a problem with the VHPA doing "it's own thing" after all the name of the organization says it all. What is wrong with people wanting their own group and doing their own thing?? An augument that all people who were related to helicopter operations in any way should be included in their reunion is somewat unrealistit and starts sounding just like modern politicians and activists. Sort of like women demanding to be let into "Men's Clubs" and their daughters into the Boy Scouts. There ia always someone wanting to tell other people and groups how they think they should operate.
"LOU" Bulldog 16 <pqt2@trilobyte.net>
Tooele, UT USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 10:42:56 (MDT)
Fred: Not all the Pilots from the VHPA think the same. We have alot of Pilots that come to the VHCMA Reunions because they feel WELCOME !! Remember it took all the crew working together as a team to make a sucessful mission. It's a sad note that there is a difference in status ( officers and enlisted in some cases but, not in all ). But we have that problem as civilian also. But, Tom Pedersen, Kal, Larry Lackey and our other pilots have always treated us as real Brothers and Crew and not the GIB. Plus the Pilot's reunion is to expensive for my pocket. But, I see your point Fred. It's the thought of have the opportunity to attend if you wanted to. We have been truly Blessed with the 129th web site. Having the opportunity to meet our Brothers and their Families that we served with in Vietnam. That has been a treaure in it's self. Next month will my 40th anniervary of arriving at the 129th in 65. At times it seems like I am in a dream and when I wake up I am still in Nam. This Friday 10/07/66 is the aniverary of our KIA's Chamberlin, Whetzel, Gilliam and Neal a Slow Hand Salute!! They Will Never be Forgotton. These years of having the opportunity of meeting all of our Brothers of the 129th. Has been a real HONOR for me. Through the Good and Bad times we have been here for each other. THATS WHAT A FAMILY IS ALL ABOUT. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 09:59:49 (MDT)
and you,can shove your "elitetist vhpa"where the sun dont shine.You remember those guys in back? you know,the guys that did all thework to keep the bird safe and well oiled? The guys that protected your backs in LZs.Thr vhpa has had arguements weather to invite gibs to their reunions,to no avail.WE have ask if the vhpa wiuld hold a joint convention....to no avail.There were pilots,not many,but there were some,that treated gib like crap and they still think they are our betters.get over it.Can you connect those dots?
alvis
USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 07:18:09 (MDT)
Not trying to stir up any "Crap", especially since I hardy ever Post here(but I"ve read the LOG every day since 2000) but Alvis, just what the hell is wrong with the VHPA???? I've seen you make several comments critical of the VHPA, the last being "And while I am on a "tell it like it is binge",the vhpa can kiss my stinking butt.gib( guys in back) are not welcome there.Yet we gib,welcome all pilots.connect the dots!" Well I'm a member of the VHPA and at least 10 pilots of the 1968-69 era I served with are members(4 of which were in my platoon}. I'm not sure what "connect the dots" means but you can rest assured that none of the VHPA members(and proud of it)I served with will "Kiss your stinking butt" or anybodies'.
"LOU" Bulldog16 <pqt2@trilobyte.net>
Tooele, UT USA - Monday, October 03, 2005 at 00:09:49 (MDT)
my moniter is really starting to act up,might be out of touch for a while.not to worry,my bullets are not whispering my name.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 22:57:02 (MDT)
in Columbus georgia,where i was raised,more or less (army brat),there was a bbq place way out macon road.Twas just past the drive in movie theater,just b4 the road changed back to 2 lane.They had the best bbq,but the brunswick stew,used as a filler i guess,was just grand.All the bbq places in columbus served that stew,but this place was tops. Dad retired from the army in 62( got orders for nam in 61)and we moved into columbus. It was a culture shock of sorts,the army had (in my short life time)always been non-segergated,we went to school with who ever,didnt make any difference.Our group of kids on Ft. Benning consisted of a couple of white kids,one huge black kid named otis and one 1/2 korean kid whos dad beat the hell out of him"to make him tough". We would hike up to sand hill and go swimming all summer vacations and pal around at school.Then we moved into the city.Now this was 1962,deep south georgia.2 water fountians,,white and black,3 bathrooms...men..women and black.I actually saw a tv add posted by someone running for GOVERNER saying "vote for me,we will not send your children to jungle bunny schools."Ahh,I degress..growing up there in the early 60s, i used to see helicopters flying overhead by what seemed to be the hundreds.I loved it.Dad would take me out to lawson army airfield to look at the aircraft,then to the jump towers,then bbq.12 oclock high was on tv then,Combat, and the BIG Picture.Also ,on Victory drive,was a little,fixed wing airstrip,just b4 the fairgrounds and Phenix city.They would fly you around for a penny a pound.For around a buck,Dad would give me a present that I dearly loved....then bbq and brunswick stew.I guess,in the changing times and in the name of progress,that place and places like it,are all gone now.Dads buried in the cementery just off the drive as you get into fort benning,by the MP gate and upotio creek.Maybe I should go vist with him in a few months,and see if i can find some of that brunswick stew.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 21:08:44 (MDT)
Ah Alvis,my friend...fade away we most certainly will...however, we're not gone yet, and there are several ways to keep the memories alive. Thanks to Mark,(and Larry)we have another chance to remember our unit, people we served with. Thanks to this coming about before we all die, we have a chance to codify our deeds, which will keep us around for a while longer.....I've gone through some days when I felt the lucky ones were the ones who didn't come home...after reasoning it out, I feel that's not true. With all the misery that goes with living, there's a tremendous amount of good on this planet, as long as we can keep it all in perspective. The one constant is change...roll with it when it's good, resist it when it's not..and hope to hell we are smart enough to know the difference! ...my bio..I was born in the wrong time 1/5/53, out door plumbing poor, the eighth out of nine kids. I grew up fascinated with what makes things tick, tore apart every engine I could, got my ass kicked a bunch of times what I couldn't make it work again! was always around drinking, and figured that when I could lay my hands on alcohol that I was grown. I worked on a few farms for room and board, drank, smoked, got in trouble is school, which got me in the Army as soon as I turned 17, which kept me out of jail. Ft. Dix, Eustis, Stewart, then nam. I guess I had an advantage from spending time with the nam returnee's who were killing time till discharge...I had an idea what to expect when i went over. I left the 129th in early Decmber, 71, and left nam in February 72. Came back to Maine, where there was nothing going on, high unemployment, no skills worth mentioning, so i went back in in January 73. Got to visit Ft. benning, Bliss, Aschaffenburg Germany, Hohenfels, Graffenwehr, Wildflecken...even rode bareback in the European Rodeo Association! Got out in 75, went to Florida, came back to Maine, built houses for a while, worked in a boat shop, and got a job in a paper mill in 77. Been there since, working in maintenance. Got married, had 5 kids, got divorced, got a girlfriend who is still with me. got half a dozen grandkids.....one of these days I'll figure out what I want to do for a living!!!!! Till then....it's enough to just take one day at a time
Kim
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 18:32:42 (MDT)
Alex I need some information on appling for benfits form VA. If you would give me a call or E-mail me a ncrcr1945@yahoo.com you phone number so I can call you. Hope everone is doing good. Hope to hear from you soon. My phone is 704-483-7812. Thanks Roger
roger l cress <ncrcr1945@yahoo.com>
sherrills ford, nc USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 15:45:43 (MDT)
Kim, I have a pic ,or two, of low leveling down the song Be.Twas great fun.I liked when we surprised villagers beathing their clothes on rocks,washing their kids and the kids playing in the water.With no warning,we would appear almost overhead,wop wop woping away.chuckle,I loved the way the would run "helter skelter" as if we were comming in hot.There and gone,in just a matter of seconds.sigh,guess you could say that discribes our lives as well.Our memories,and those who knew us,like the blade wop,fading as time equals distance.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 09:37:21 (MDT)
Just sitting outside on my deck, drinking coffee, when a friend of mine low leveled the river, maybe 150 yards from the house. Right on the deck, below the trees, making high revs in a 170 Cessna....about 120? Reminds me of flying the Song Be, skids just above the water, Alemaster ( Vic Gilliland) flying, with Mr.Fred as PP. Ah memories.....London from Logan is 300 round trip. I'd figure 600 a day, and I travel cheap...Alvis, hang in there! I look forward to seeing your recollections, you're getting pretty good at writing, in my opinion.
Kim
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 08:56:50 (MDT)
Kim: London is expense. A booked flight from Memphis to london 45days prior to leaving about 700.00, Hotel for 5days depends on an average room between 300.00 & 400.00per day. Remember due to the time difference your first day there you will have to force yourself to stay up and moving so you can get into the time swing there. Food about 50.00 to 70.00 a day. Liz says her company spends about 6000.00 for 5 days for two people . No extras included. Flight , room and food. Of coarse some travel companies have special rate for senior's. But, you have to make sure your getting what you want. Flights will very to price it depends on where your flying out of. Fred I haven't filed for PTSD as of now. was told to get as much documentation through the VA and Vet centers. The VA beneifits which is seperate from The VA hospital looks for a history or paper trail of treatment. I go on a day off or before work. The people awarding compensation probaly have never seen combat or the military. Their looking at records of treatment. Bill, hope the son makes to west point. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 08:36:02 (MDT)
THANKS FOR THE INFO kIM,that sure makes an England reunion out of reach ,for me anyway.That simply leaves one of the tv channels to underwrite it and i just dont see that happening.I guess people with lots of money forget how it is,or never knew,how the finicial part of our lives play such a large role in our endevors.
alvis
USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 06:54:52 (MDT)
Is any one out there really surprised that the V.A. well went dry? The election is over!!! We end up with what we vote for, and we voted for what we got. It'd be nice to think that the folks in power understand that we need to honor our commitment to our veterans. Unfortunately though, they understand that we can't think beyond the emotional minute!..... our local newspaper, (covers three counties, population 100K?)runs an obituary column daily. The ages of the dead folks are getting closer and closer to mine, on a regular basis. It's an unfortunate fact that our lifestyle, demographics, genetics, are coming to fruition........as for London, flying is the cheapest part of the equation! London is one of the most expensive cities in the world! The ride from Heathrow will set you back around 75 dollars if you take a cab. (The tube works all right, as long as you buy London passes in advance). Hotel rooms will set you back a couple hundred bucks a day, at a minimum. Food is 40-50 bucks a meal....... makes living here seem almost cheap!......Surprise surprise, the yankees won the AL east :>((
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Sunday, October 02, 2005 at 06:39:28 (MDT)
Flight,seems like a lot of tradgedy going on here lately & my prayers go out to all,popeye has a real nasty thing to deal with & all we can do is give our support, Fred, thanks for what you say & who you are. Harrell, if there is anything i can do?? westwang@bresnan.net For the pharmacy boys, your time is wasted on me, i am on all of it & then some, now 37 pills a day so quit trying to sell me stuff. Back to you Fred, as you know(that permission to fire back is one of the biggest issues with me). I found this site in 1997 & some times it hurts & sometimes it helps & it seems that sometimes it is all that keeps me going as far as trying tolive with the past,, so many just don't get it. I appreciate you all>>>>Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 22:03:08 (MDT)
new name for 4th of july....now called flashback of july.
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 21:27:21 (MDT)
I was just talking to some folks about veterans affairs and ptsd claims.I shouldnt get into the conversations,it really brings up the anger toward way its all gone.The va still hasnt contacted me about my lastest claim to fame,the slow asses.grrrrr.I guess we really have been put on the back burner,were all used up,useless,discarded,crybabies.grrrrrrr
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 20:40:02 (MDT)
Popeye is back in the hospitial.Pneumonia has raised its ugly face.He is on IV antibiotics.
alvis
USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 20:11:06 (MDT)
Well put Alvis! I never joined VHPA because like Groucho said: " I would never join a club that would have me as a member" LOL Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 12:56:17 (MDT)
Hello gang! Just a few updates on things. First, PFC Wolf (82nd Airborne) is back at Ft Bragg after helping out in New Orleans and Lake Charles. Hopefully he'll get to keep processing for West Point! Met with the 92nd AHC who are having their reunion near me in 2 weeks. Their video person bailed out on them so Kat and I are doing all their a/v stuff. They were glad to get the help from a brother unit! (And of course it was a gib that bailed these pilots out!! lol) I'm getting ready to do a mailing on the 129th book information to all. If I didn't mention it, I got permission from Joe Kline to use the "God's Lunatics" painting on the book cover. As far as going to England, I just discovered that I have a half brother (whom I have never met) who lives in London. I'm planning to fly over there in the next year and, of course, will make sure I go see our 129th ship!!! Take care all! Bill
Bill Wolf <VNHeloReunion@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 08:56:53 (MDT)
Goodmorning Flight: First PTSD!! We all suffer from some sort of PTSD. I have been going to the VA hospital for 4 weeks for evaluations. Afterwards they will decide on treatment and some kind of rating ??? I didn't ask for any PTSD help. We I was interviewed for a primary care doctor I was asked all kinds of questions. Within a week I was getting all my medications. Then, a an appointment for hearing, then PTSD. As I stated I never asked for anything. I found out when you go to the VA and Vet Centers. They have a record. Also you can get copies of the records if and when you file a claim. I found out unless you have medical problem in your 201 file and have been seen by a private doctor on a regular basis sincwe you left the service or have diabtes . Forget a claim, it will be denied. As I found out. So get into the VA hospital's Ptsd dept. It's hard on me talking about the stuff that bothers me. My blood pressure shoots up. But, The staff of Doctors are there to help us. I truly believe this. Like I said I tried a medical for my ears,right knee and foot and was denied. But, Now the Doctors are giving me documentation it file for PTSD. I didn't realize how I blocked out so much stuff. Brothers like I said check into the Va PTSD dept. They can help, plus you have on going record should you decide to file a claim. But, the main thing is to try and understand our inter feeling and scars left by Vietnam. Have any Questions My cell number is 901-487-0374. I just wanted to share my experience and hope it will help. A trail of documentation from the VA hopsital records. As I said, the Doctor that inteviewed me at the copper clinic is the the one whom put all this into place. Another note the VA beneifits are different in each state. Harrell were here if you need us. Fred Alvis is right when it comes to the cost of going to England. Liz travels there. But, she sees the cost of the company pays out for 5 days. Thats why alot from England travel here on business it's cheaper. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 08:43:21 (MDT)