ROBBIE MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOUR BROTHER. I UNDERSTAND SOME OF THE THINGS GOING THRU HIS MIND,,,MYSELF BEING A 3YEAR CANCER SURVIOR THIS MONTH. THE SAD SIDE OF THAT IS IN THAT TIME MY WAS PASSED AWAY WITH CANCER 5 DAYS AFTER THE DIAG.,,,,SO WHAT I'M SAYING IS TELL HIM YOU LOVE HIM AND OFTEN. GALE I'M GLAD YOU GOT THE PRESSURE DOWN, YA DON'T NEED TO BLOW A HEAD GASKET. MY BROTHER DID NOT TAKE CARE OF HIS AND HAD A STROKE AT 49 AND ALTHOUGH HE IS DOING GOOD NOW HE COULD HAVE PREVENTED IT IN THE FIRST PLACE. GENTLY I DON'T KNOW IF THERE'S ANY TRUTH ABOUT MY ABILITY TO FLY,,,,OLE CREWCHIEF'S TAKE TO THE AIR LIKE WINGS ON A DUCK. I CAN ACTUALLY CHEW GUM AND MAKE CORDINATED TURNS,,,YA OUGHT TO SEE ME BLOWING BUBLES ON FINAL. MABY BUD DON'T TYPE WELL, SAY SORTA LIKE A GOOD SEXATARY "A HUNT & PECKER". I LOVE MY 129TH FAMILY,,,YOU ALL TAKE CARE,,,DAMN I JUST HAD TO LOOK UP AT THAT MONKEY
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 23:28:31 (MDT)

WORK!!!!!!Life at work is like a tree full of monkeys, all on diffrent limbs at diffrent levels. Some monkey`s are climbing up and some are climbing down. The monkeys on top, look down and see a tree full of smiling faces. The monkeys on the bottom look up and see nothing but assholes.
F.I.S.
USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 18:07:47 (MDT)

Robbie, my prayers are with you also. Sometimes, when we think we have problems that break us down, or appear insurmountable, they're nothing when compared to the worry and concern about a loved one in pain and distress, who we can really do nothing for. I pray he'll be OK, Robbie. Gale, great news on the BP..just great. Now lets get back to the laughter! Regarding Ray...his VA doctor finally told him today that he has PTSD. Finally Ray, finally. Did some of you get my email on the Master-baster having a heart attack? And Bud?! Come on, Bud. If Jim can fly you can type. And remember to chill out you guys...the anger...the anger. Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 15:00:35 (MDT)

Robbie, our prayers go out for your brother & family. Hopefully he'll recover and have a good life. I lost my older brother when he was 54 to multiple mylenoma, so, I know how rough it can be on all. I'm glad to hear that you can tell him that you love him cause there's so many men that can't do that....hang in there. Flight, my Dr increased my meds and my BP is back down where it's sposed to be, so, I guess I'm good to go. Thanks to all for your concern. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 08:43:38 (MDT)

Well, I'm going to try a post if i can get in between the Penis enlargements and the porn sites...Bud Rainey called me on Sunday and he and his family are good. We talked for quite awhile, and mostly about what happened the evening of Sept. 12 1969. I'm glad a few things got straightened out about that. Bud says he's going to make an effort to get on the Puter and post, but i Wouldn't put money on that. I think he's got a phobia bout the puters. Anyway it was good to talk to him again and catch up. My Brother had his Tumor removed last Friday, and they had to remove about 1/2 of his colon. The doctors say they think they got all of it but he will still have some Kemo to go through. I've talked to him a couple of times and he sounds weak and has tubes in his nose and throat and his Weiner. So i don't keep him on the phone very long, just enough to hear his voice and tell him i Love him. He will probably be in the hospital until this Friday and then might get to come home according to how well he progresses. Tomorrow at 10:30 is D day for me here at Kodak. My boss will let me know if i need to find another job. There are some jobs available in the system, but not much for what i do because most of those jobs are going to be done in Canada, China, India, Mexico. Trying not to let that bother me at all, and will just move on if it happens. Hope everyone else is doing ok. Ray, how you doing Brother? Just keep repeating this to yourself... "KEEP OFF THE ROOF"... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 06:55:31 (MDT)

Hi Fred A and Fred S , I know where you are coming from, A guy from my home town was telling a group of guys about being a door gunner right after he got back from Nam but he didnt know what company he was in ,what a click was or anything about a helicopter. Also there is a hell of lot of navy guys who clain that were on river boats. my mos was 91b40 a medic ,3 out of the 8 in 433rd got flight pay along with the flight surgeon[Captain Nye}. 433rd was a detachment of 129th. To draw flight pay we had to fly 4 hours a month.Micael DWayne Walker A medic was on the chopper that hit the power line near Siagon
J.W. Wilson
USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 at 20:19:44 (MDT)

JW and Fred A. ...I think that sometimes effects the way the V.A. handles things...can you imagine what kind of stories a "case worker" has heard, and he or she has to determine what`s the truth and what`s not...I`m just guessing, but sometimes they have to really look close into that sort of stuff. Those kind of situations COULD have delayed "who gets help" and who don`t get help. A psycopathic liar can tell shit...and not skip a beat. Me...when I`m talking to someone about Nam...that`s been there...I listen very closely for "keywords" and "phrases" that a person uses. Like if someone would tell me that they flew "left door-gunner" ....that might make me think. At my time and period in Nam...that would send a "red flag" up for me. Now on the "flip side" of this...is the soldier that served in a combat support position....but is aware that they might have contributed to astrocities...that could "screw-up" a sensitive and self-conscientious person. My mother...being in and owning a bar for 38 years, showed me when I was a kid, how to "pick-up-on" who was a "bullshiter" of the neighborhood and who wasn`t. Bullshiters always seem to share alot of the same traits. And damn if some of those same traits started showing up in some of the "steely eyed killers" of Nam Vets.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 at 18:33:38 (MDT)

and do you tell people you were a driver or a flyer? people that used guns and saw combat tell vets what they did , the remfs make crap up.I am speaking of those who make thingsd up.Do u understand now? jeeze,
alvis
USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 at 17:02:14 (MDT)

Fred A, the first two months I was in nam, I was in 63rd transportation company (a trucking company).Check out ATAV, it is a site about gun trucks. My best frends in that company were KIA in May of 67.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 at 16:52:10 (MDT)

Friends, that photograph was not a "10" for me....it was for the camera man:>))But you people do make me feel like a ten, and for that I thank you very much. Now I'm going to go and enlarge my ....oh, I can't do that. Too bad, thay really had me wanting too:>)) Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 at 12:42:10 (MDT)

your right fred S. And i was talking about the radio ops that sat in a bunker back at the rear. Radiomen out in the field were prime targets,brrrrr.took a pair to do that.
alvis
USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 at 10:13:28 (MDT)

FRED ALVIS....By the way....my MOS was O5B20....Radio Operator...most of us ended up out in the field......I was lucky!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 21:12:46 (MDT)

Fred Alvis..... I totally agree with you.....so many times I`ve ran into "another Nam Vet" and he was a lerp or a bad-ass of some kind. Only to ask him the question,"What A.O. did you work in".....And only to hear the answer,"What`s a A.O."????? Never met a cook or a clerk or a supply room Sargent. I honestly worked with a guy, Don Polley, he buildt NCO Clubs. He was honest about his tour. Not to offend any Harley riders, but down here in N.C., I`ve run into a lot off Rolling Thunder guys. Sporting expensive Harley gear and the Nam Vet stuff. They wear this stuff into "nightclubs and bars" and play a role. Rolling Thunder does a lot off good things,,,our own Pete Rhome was the President of the Ohio Chapter. And I know that Pete flew as a gunner and C.C., I was with him. But I always see these guys and ask, Were you in Nam? And get the answer, "No...but I support the guys".....I ask "Did you support us back then???? And I get the answer," I wasn`t around then...I wasn`t born until 1976!!!!!! I guess he knows a lot about our demons. I don`t know...maybe the Chapters couldn`t survive without these kinda folks support money. But when you shake their hands...it`s as smooth as a "baby`s ass". Never worked a hard day in their life. Yea that stuff has always bothered me, it`s cool if you have a brother or friend or some legit connection to the war. I`ll try to understand that. Of course, having a "young Gulf War vet cira 1991" telling me that," you guys lost" and "we won our war". That can get to me sometimes, but I just rethink my anger, and come to the conclusion," This dude couldn`t have seen much action...or he wouldn`t say that to me"!!!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 21:06:36 (MDT)

folks , sorry i copied and pasted what follows, but that kind of crap really pisses me off. How many of you have ran into "wanna be's? HAVE ANY OF YOU RAN INTO VETS THAT WERE MAILMEN OR DENTIST ASSISTANCES OR other jobs that needed to be done? i havent( except for some at the reunions) the rest were all lerps, or spider hole killers.I havent met but one truck driver and one radio operator.my god, there was 40 thousand chopper pilots from vietnam but to hear it , all the rest were lerps or snipers or some other crap.Am i wrong in thinking that lerps were fewer in number than us? grrr, war stories by remf's make me see red.I have an uncle that was a cornel( sp) in an engineers outfit in nha trang. One thankgiving he stated that nam vets are just a buch of cry babies.This was said in front of me and another uncle (in law) that was a pow. Shit, i am seeing red now. seeeeee y'all later, i have to go regroup.
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 18:21:48 (MDT)

Veteran's admission to napalm victim a lie Minister says he never meant to deceive with `story of forgiveness' through the street, her body covered with burning napalm, became a symbol of the horror of the Vietnam War." By Tom Bowman SUN NATIONAL STAFF WASHINGTON -- She is a grim icon of the Vietnam War: A 9-year-old girl running down a village road, napalm scorching all but her scream, her agony portrayed on the front pages of the world's newspapers. At a Veteran's Day ceremony last year in front of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Kim Phuc said in halting English that if she ever meets the pilot who dropped the bomb she would urge him to join her in working for world peace. "I am that man," John Plummer hastily wrote on a scrap of paper that was passed up to her. Minutes later the former Army captain was embracing Phuc, sobbing that he was sorry. Responded Phuc, "I forgive you." A heart-rending tale, one that has since gained heavy media attention. But Plummer's part in it isn't true. Neither Plummer nor any other American piloted the plane that day, June 8, 1972. The pilot was a South Vietnamese air force officer. Since the ceremony at the Wall, Plummer, a 50-year-old Methodist minister in rural Purcellville, Va., has revised his tale,though continuing to exaggerate it. Appearing on ABC'S "Nightline" in June, he told Ted Koppel that he "ordered" the raid on Phuc's village of Trang Bang. An October cover story under his byline in Guideposts, an international religious magazine, referred to "the attack I had called." And in a documentary that aired last month on the Arts & Entertainment Network, he said: "Every time I saw that picture, I said, `I did that. I'm responsible.' " In fact, the North Carolina native flew helicopters, not fixed-wing aircraft of the type that dropped the napalm, though at the time he was in a staff job. Nor did he have the authority to order his own country's planes into action, let alone South Vietnamese aircraft, say his former superiors. Plummer, they say, was a low-level staff officer. The entire operation was run by South Vietnam's military, with Americans playing only an advisory role. In an
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 18:08:51 (MDT)

What The F--K!!!!! All this spam....There`s got to be something done about this shit.....Hair removable, Oh yea that`s just what I need!!!!! Assigned numbers or a code to get on the web-site is what we need. Then all this shit can be stopped......I said that before!!!!!! They can`t put anything on the web-site without entering the code. Mark, if your out there, I know you have other things going on, but this is ridiculous!!!! Can`t even have a good exchange of "ideas" or disagreement....LOL....without this stuff popping up!!!!!!! J.W. Wilson....I have over 60 accounts to deal with and most are in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area...."The Triangle". And the customer is always on the phone wanting to know why a certain plant is doing better than another, why there is "yellow leafs" and so forth. I`m learning to come up with a lot of "Canned Answers"....there is so many variables of why they do what they do!!!!! One building in Raleigh....I have over 400 plants with 43 diffrent species of plants. It`s turned into more than just "watering the plants"....I`m not a horticulturist or botanist!!!!!!! Like the "ole song" sez...."I Know A Little Bit.....And I Can Guess The Rest"!!!!!! But now I`m almost up to 40 hour work-week and it was suppose to be "part-time".....But they do pay me well for a "Right To Work-----Non-Union Southern State"!!!!!!! Enough...To much expresso this morning!!!! KNAP????? Kinda like a old Cheech and Chong album,"Big Bambo"......Rolling up some "old socks" and smoking them!!!!!! DUDE!!!! I know I`m gettin a Buzz!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 10:16:07 (MDT)

Don, Rick gives good advice. Va so trys to drive us away with the paper game.I guess cause it works.Good luck and go for it. Dont smoke the knap huh? will have to remember that.
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 08:25:23 (MDT)

Don see the DAV officer at the hospital I hear he is the best. His first name is Richard, I can't rememeber his last name. Just ask at the front desk for the dav officer in buld. 3. The hospital is 7st and indian school. You can also check out the Vet Center on 3 st and Weldon which isn't far from the hospital. If you need any help I can go down with you. If you know when. I will bc my home no.******* Fred good for you we need to do things for ourselves sometimes. First ;latoon hoooches were on the secound level down by the shower. They might have change when you were there. Be careful out there Clear left.
Rick England
USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 06:22:11 (MDT)
i was between the orderly room and the mess hall at the top of the hill. Beside the club...Keith
Keith72-73
ms USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 22:02:22 (MDT)
My hot mail addy is new to me.Like Don, i get only so much space. Not knowing "folders took up that space,all my mail bounced. That Aussie Lass took me by the ear and straighted me out.(again)Sory I missed mail from you JIm, I always enjoy hearing from you.Jim,your right about the harleys. Some are bigger and some are faster but they aint harleys. Nothig against jap bikes,hecl i have owned about every make out there, its what i learned on as i bought bigger bikes.Believe it or not, my first rides were on a 50cc harleyI think it was 50cc) think it was made in italy for harley..around 1964 or so.Jim,I ben thinking on buying a 1200 sporty, they can be had now (used) for 6 or 7 grand around here.Older sporties can be had for ,,in the 4s. amf era i think and earlier.Hey JIm,WHAT flight where we in? Damn if i can remember.would it be first cause our hootchs were first nearest the road? Mr Page (shadow) do you know? As keith said,some things are very hazy.Jim,looking at the orderly room from the road, we both lived to the left of it, between it and the mess hall.If there were one thing i could do for you, it would be getting that pic of you in the flight shack,throwing people in the iced beer tub.Would stil like to run into Gabby, that would almost complete the circle. over
fred alvis <ghoastrider1@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 21:20:44 (MDT)
Hi Flight, Fred S. If your new job takes you Snow Hill, Farmville, Greenville, or Kinston areas, check out the fields where they are growing a plant call knap. It looks like 14 foot high maryjane. They harvest it and make a pulp that is transformed to a plywood type material to be used in car door panels. Some highschoolers have been trying to smoke it but it does't have any kick.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 20:15:54 (MDT)
Alvis i have one of those bonnevile pontiacs too..a 89 model
Keith 72-73
ms USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 20:15:52 (MDT)
alvis some of those names sound vagely familiar but cant be shure. so long ago more some days than others... was in Korea in 70-71 sometimes get people mixed from the different tours. but i did know Bill Jeanes and steven Tolan,and Ron Paye,Mr Cameron,mr Craig. Remember those names and my CO was Maj Hugh C. Durhamn III. wish i had paid more attention. Anyway i pretty much put it all away untill I happened across this site back in the spring. Keith 72-73
Ronald Keith Letson
ms USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 17:24:34 (MDT)
no need to apologize Fred. I asked for pic's and got 'em. the nice thing about yahoo mail is they give you XX mb of space free and if you go over that amount they ask you if you want to buy a larger mailbox. but send the mail to you anyway. so you just download the mail you want to keep (pic's in this case) then delete it from your free mailbox. and you are ready for more LOL. somehow just by looking at the pic's you and Gale sent me I missed a great time. maybe next year. I am going to the DAV monday to get them tohelp me with my VA claim. all the vets around here say it really helps to get them to help you with your claim. so wish me luck. thanks again for the pic's Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 15:44:35 (MDT)
Fred Alvis, I have sent you some things recently to both the addy's I have & they are coming back undelivered, don't know why. Hope everyone is doing well. You said something about Harley-Davidson, The only thing I can say is I would not have one from the amf era, & (2), there may be a number of motorcycles that require less maintenance, will run longer etc. but they do not have the class of a Harley. My `97 Sportster was a 1200, quite fast, never gave me any problem. Good Start. MY 2003 electra-glide is the class of the fleet as far as i am concerned but there are a number of class models that are just as good, just depends on what you want. I live close to Sturgis & have been to about 8 rallies there & cannot count the times i have seen the patch or T-shirt that reads " If I have to explain Harley Davidson to you, you wouldn't understand". I got the pics fron Kokomo & looks like a good time was had by all & replied & thats why I cannot figure your e mail coming back Fred , & Judy I knew you were a "10" before they got the sign. Respects, smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@bresnan.net>
sheridan, Wy. USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 13:09:29 (MDT)
just went to ebay and looked at the bird. Sure wish i would hit the lotto.
alvis
USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 12:23:42 (MDT)
I cant pool anything.If it cost a dime to ride the bus,I would have to stand there and wave bye. Brrr, so cold here last night I saw a lawyer with his hand in his own pocket.Howdy Kieth. Have some friends from the Lural area in ole Miss.Kieth , did you know, or fly with, Mr Page? How about a a fellow named shakey?Did you know Woodward in maintainance?
alvis
USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 12:02:23 (MDT)
Wondered if you guys saw one of your Hueys up for sale on ebay ? 66-01009 Only $295,000 ! Item # 2434039252 Maybe if you all pooled your resources.....
Curt Knapp <loach.pilot@dellepro.com>
Sacramento, Ca USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 10:18:03 (MDT)
THE FORMER ENVOY, Joseph Wilson, who was acting ambassador to Iraq before the first Gulf War, was dispatched to Niger in 2002 to investigate a British intelligence report that Iraq sought to buy uranium there. Although Wilson discredited the report, Bush cited it in his State of the Union address in January among the evidence he said justified military action in Iraq. The administration has since had to repudiate the claim. CIA Director George Tenet said the 16-word sentence should not have been included in Bush’s Jan. 28 speech and publicly accepted responsibility for allowing it to remain in the president’s text. Wilson published an article in July alleging, however, that the White House recklessly made the charge knowing it was false. “We spend billions of dollars on intelligence,” Wilson wrote. “But we end up putting something in the State of the Union address, something we got from another intelligence agency, something we cannot independently verify, in an area of Africa where the British have no on-the-ground presence.” WHITE HOUSE DENIALS The next week, columnist Robert Novak published an article in which he revealed that Wilson’s wife, Valerie Plame, was a covert CIA operative specializing in weapons of mass destruction. “Two senior administration officials told me Wilson’s wife suggested sending him to Niger to investigate,” Novak wrote. The White House has denied being Novak’s source, whom he has refused to identify. But Wilson has said other reporters have told him White House officials leaked Plame’s identity. Advertisement NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell reported Friday night that the CIA has asked the Justice Department to investigate whether White House officials blew Plame’s cover in retaliation against Wilson. Revealing the identities of covert officials is a violation of two laws, the National Agents’ Identity Act and the Unauthorized Release of Classified Information Act. ATTEMPTS TO REMOVE CLAIM When the Niger claim first arose, in February 2002, the CIA sent Wilson to Africa to investigate. He reported finding no credible evidence that Iraq was seeking uranium from Niger. The CIA’s doubts about the uranium claim were reported through routine intelligence traffic throughout the government, U.S. intelligence officials said. Those doubts were also reported to the British. The Niger report included a notation that it was unconfirmed when it was published in the October 2002 National Intelligence Estimate, the classified summary of intelligence on Iraq’s weapons programs. The CIA had the Niger claim removed from at least two speeches before they were given: Bush’s October address on the Iraqi threat, and a speech by U.N. Ambassador John Negroponte. As the State of the Union address was being written, CIA officials protested over how the alleged uranium connection was being portrayed, so the administration changed it to attribute it to the British, who had made the assertion in a Sept. 24 dossier.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, xxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 09:10:07 (MDT)
good morning Alvis.... Keith72-73
Ronald Keith Letson
USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 08:02:30 (MDT)
Sorry Don. I was having trouble with my email and didnt know if the pics got out. The things we take for granted....Susan has never seen trees that changed colors. Man is the artist in her going to love this fall,its started here now.Holloween is blowing her mind,I gues aussies dont get into it like folks here.Took her down the costume isle at wallmart yesterday and we laughed the whole way.Havea great weekend folks, .. over
alvis
USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 07:17:14 (MDT)
Fred, Gale, thanks for the pic's looks like everyone had a great time. I love the Go kart LOL. to everyone else ..... be careful what you ask for you might get it. I asked for pic's and got 114% of my mail box full. seriously though. thanks again guys the pic's are great. haven't heard from Bill yet Fred but I will contact you as soon as I do. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 23:37:50 (MDT)
bill french, i sent the kokomo pics to fren bell south addy and also to hog leg addy.The background of the pics (gales also) tells the story. check out the crobra's in gales glasses. alot of the haze in the sun down pics are from numerious campfires at the reunion.Gently, did u forward on the pics of tom and his wife to them? Dang, gales mustang looks good..hmmm, wonder if i can get a deal on one around here somewhere. those 5.0s sure look like fun.......over
alvis
USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 17:16:10 (MDT)
Bill, funny you should mention flying over Kokomo....the Kokomo re-union site is an old airport! I'm also sure Gale and Fred will get photos out to you, if not, let me know(they're afraid of me). And Jim Oliver...we'll see you overhead at Kokomo next year?!?!? Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 14:49:56 (MDT)
Hi everyone but the spamers... Hi Rick Hey Max I appreciate the web sight about GAF. I had tried to find out with out any luck. Spent some time with Jim O. last Sunday ,he is a such a hoot. Had a GREAT time. This flying bug has got him good. With any luck he will be clearing a landing strip at his house. That kind of excitement is contagious. I can just see a bunch of us buzzing Kokomo. Sure would like to get some of the pix by the way... Max I’ve had bikes all my life and can’t not be on one for very long. Even when I broke my foot in 3 places it wasn’t long before I had the crutches strapped on the side and away I went. All though I didn’t think of all the problem I could encounter. Like falling over. I never feel as free as when I can ride. Luckily South Carolina & Florida don’t have helmet laws. Guys in the ABATE chapter are trying to get the helmet law in GA repealed. They are riding with Baseball hats and telling the cop’s that it’s head protection. The State doesn’t have any specs for what a helmet should be. Be Safe Ride free.(fren6222@bellsouth.net) Frenchie
Bill French
Savannah, Ga USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 14:18:55 (MDT)
thank you Don. Will try and get my pics out today. Gale has the only pic of my wife and i toghether..thanks gale..by the way, its a brandy bottle she is holding,,i really had to look twice..smile.
alvis
USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 09:41:44 (MDT)
Guess it's time to collect funds for a "SPAM" filter of some sort. Any suggestions? Gale go visit Fred and the VA there...he can get you to the short-cuts(unless he's still busy with that River Dancing kick((no pun intended)) he's on). Don, if you don't get the photos from Fred or Gale let me know and I'll send them to you, but I'm sure they'll come through. It's the weekend! With smiles, Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 07:07:21 (MDT)
A professor stood before his Philosophy 101 class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full? They agreed that it was. So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was. The professor picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He then asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous - - yes. The professor then produced two cans of beer from under the table and proceeded to pour the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed. "Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things - - your family, your partner, your health(Gale Beard), your children, your friends, your favorite passions - - things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full." "The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, your car. The sand is everything else - - the small stuff." "If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for your life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups( Gale Beard) . Take your partner out dancing. Play another 18. There will always be time for me to go to work, clean the house, give a dinner party and fix the disposal." "Take care of the golf balls first -- the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand." One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the beer represented. The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of beers!
Fred Skaggs
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 18:28:09 (MDT)
woooo hooo, got hte pics gale, thanks buddy. E mailed the one of sue and i to my family down in tenneesse and fla. river dance..?.... fat boys can river dance too . chuckling.
alvis
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 18:12:50 (MDT)
gALE, IF THEY WANT YOU TO COME TO rOUBUSH VA HOSP. HERE IN INDY...YOU CERTIANLY HAVE A PLACE TO STAY.I AM ABOUT 8 MILES FROM IT.WILL TAKE THE DAY off and escort you around that maze if you want.... ahh, pan heads i say with a lost look in my eye. sold mine in the mid 80s for 1,200 bucks, a case of beer and a gram of coke.( does the word idiot come to mind?) shrug, but thats what they went for back then.Was one hell of a nice chopper. Kick back?...no problems there, i hated the kick thru.. when it didnt catch the started cog. would darn near throw your hip out. smile, alot to be said for electric starters. be at peace, my brothers. fred
ALVIS
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 18:09:20 (MDT)
Geez Gale! You didn't mention your BP in Kokomo while we were talking about the health of other 129ers and yourself. I better call you tonight...what's your number? I'll continue to check my emails for it until 4:30 CST. And no, now I am certainly not going to give Debbie my red boa!!! Geez....Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 14:49:50 (MDT)
Flight, I guess I'm "red X " for a while. Just got back from my scheduled visit at the VA in Danville, Il. Pretty nice bunch of people, but, wanted to put me in the hospital cause my BP was sky high. I told them I'd see my private Dr ( got an appointment in the AM ),so, they made me sign a release form to cover their butts.....I can't blame them for that. I guess Doc will adjust or change my meds tomorrow. I'll just take it easy the rest of the day ( Debbie's orders ). It was probably Gently's fault that my pressure was up.....seeing her all dressed up in her "BOA" at Kokomo. :o))) Beautiful day though, in the mid 60's & sunny....cruised up there with my "ragtop" down. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 14:23:38 (MDT)
alvis mine is a 53 PAN. Keith72-73
Ronald Keith Letson
ms USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 11:20:10 (MDT)
Max! Welcome back! I'm sorry to hear about your cat...I know how you love them....love can be expensive...make that, love is expensive. There's quite afew "bikers" here (many who have made "Rolling Thunder), so you can expect info and advice on your possible(Harley?) bike purchase. My advice to you is-just get it! Gale thanks for the info on Don's mother. Love to all-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 10:24:45 (MDT)
i wonder y the nameless one uses good peoples names ( all boxers of high respectability) to sign with?...... as far as sporters go, if it were I, the 1200 sportster is the one. big engine, light frame spells better preformance.Sportsters are entry level harleys. A good learning tool as well as a fine motercycle. Do NOT buy one from the AMF years if you can help it.Mine was a 51 so i cant say about the new ones, better ask Jim Westwang , Ron payne or Mark. Sorry to hear about the mother of one of us.prayers offered.Gale, one of these day I will just drive over and see the pics myself, heck with hotmail.
alvis
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 10:17:06 (MDT)
Hello flight. Haven't had time to post in awhile, although I check in at least once a day to see what's going on. Have been very busy remodeling and landscaping my new mobile home and lot, along with regular work. Have just semi-retired (at 57), so will have more time, now, although I expect to spend a lot of it fishing, next summer! Sorry to have missed Kokomo, and the other reunions, but Oregon is a long way from most of them, and finances got a bit tight after the moving costs, and a huge veterinarian bill on one of my cats. I've been drooling over some Harley sportsters, lately, and may end up getting one this winter, when they go on sale; for now, I'm taping all the episodes of 'American Chopper,' and getting my kicks vicariously. I may ask a few questions about bikes on this board in the future, as some of you appear to know a lot more about them than I do (any advice anyone would care to email to me would be appreciated), and it's been a long time since I owned one. Since finally getting a primary care doctor at the VA hospital last year, I've been very pleased with the care; in comparing notes with various relatives and friends, I've found that the VA system is far better than most private care, especially those damned HMOs. Bob Mason, the Vietnam helicopter pilot who wrote the book 'Chickenhawk,' is giving a talk at the VA hospital next month, and I hope to be able to attend. Bite and Strike!
Max Whittington <Max@OregonPI.com>
Oregon USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 07:18:01 (MDT)
I wish I hit the lotto too. Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 07:09:13 (MDT)
RAY: You can find a GAF score chart, and what the percentages mean, at: http://www.avapl.org/gaf/GAFSheet.html Good luck!
Max
Oregon USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 06:27:58 (MDT)
Psalm 2003.......... Bush is my shepherd, I shall be in want. He leadeth me beside the still factories, He maketh me to lie down on park benches, He restoreth my doubts about the Republican party, He guideth me onto the paths of unemployment for the party's sake. I do fear the evildoers, for thou talkst about them constantly. Thy tax cuts for the rich and thy deficit spending They do discomfort me. Thou anointeth me with never-ending debt, And my savings and assets shall soon be gone. Surely poverty and hard living shall follow me, And my jobless children shall dwell in my basement forever.
Gentleman Jim Corbett
Manchester, GB England - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 04:57:50 (MDT)
Flight, For those of you who remember(or not) Don Whigham, 129th 67-68........his Mother passed away Sunday. Lee Wood, Dan Hertlein, Ted Gustufson I'm sure that you remember Don. His address is -214 Broad St, Headland, Al 36345- or you can e-mail me for his e-mail addy. I'm sure he would appreciate some support. Thanks. Alvis, I can't get those pics to ya. Gale
Gale <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 20:31:23 (MDT)
To The Tune Of Country Joe`s "Fixin To Die Rag"....... Well come on all you new young men......... Uncle Sam's in a mess again......... Got himself in a terrible jam.......... With a crazy Muslim named Saddam........... So put down your bibles pick up your guns........ We're gonna have a whole lot of FUN.......... And it's 1 2 3 what are we fighting for.......... Don't ask me I don't give a damn......... I just know we gotta kill Saddam.......... And its 5 6 7 open up the pearly gates......... Aint no time to wonder why........... Big oil is startin to cry.................. Well come on all of you christian right......... We all know you love a good fight........ Now's your chance for a last crusade........... The whole damn word has got to be saved......... Just remember when your children all die......... They'll be standing at the good Lord's side....... Come on Dubya ,better move fast........ Our gas is burnin and it won't last....... Your daddy started but he couldn't finish......... Now's your chance to make your own image....... Aren't you glad you don't have sons......... Cause were callin up the guard for this one
Floyd Patterson
Newark, NJ USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 18:25:52 (MDT)
"We have been hit 18 of the last 19 days. I feel like I am at Da Nang or Phu Bai. It just sucks. Luckily, 'only' about 45 people have been hurt. Yeah, a lot, but considering how many they lob in here, that is not too bad.... We are under siege out here, without supplies, without a mission and we can only roll the dice so many times and not get our (expletive) shot. More and more body bags and amputees will be coming home."............. -- 2nd Lt. Brett Hunt, with the Army's 11th Signal Brigade north of Baghdad, in a letter to his parents, July 22.............. "From the brief time that we did spend occupying Iraqi territory after the war, I am certain that had we taken all of Iraq, we would have been like the dinosaur in the tar pit – we would still be there, and we, not the United Nations, would be bearing the costs of the occupation. This is a burden I am sure the beleaguered American taxpayer would not have been happy to take on." ....-- Norman Schwarzkopf on the first Gulf War, 1993......... "We should not march into Baghdad. To occupy Iraq would instantly shatter our coalition, turning the whole Arab world against us and make a broken tyrant into a latter-day Arab hero. Assigning young soldiers to a fruitless hunt for a securely entrenched dictator and condemning them to fight in what would be an unwinnable urban guerilla war, it could only plunge that part of the world into ever greater instability."........... - George H.W. Bush on the first Gulf War, 1998.......... "I'm not reading this. This is bullshit."........... --Colin Powell at a rehearsal for his speech on Iraq's WMDs to the UN Security Council, according to US News and World Report, June 2, 2003................"Let me tell you one thing first. War sucks big time. Don’t let yourself ever be talked into having one waged in the name of your freedom. Somehow when the bombs start dropping or you hear the sound of machine guns at the end of your street you don’t think about your 'imminent liberation' anymore."........... --"Salam Pax," the Bagdad blogger, May 7, 2003............."Has commerce hitherto done anything more than change the object of war? Is not the love of wealth as domineering and enterprising a passion as that of power or glory? Have there not been as many wars founded upon commercial motives since that has become the prevailing system of nations, as were before occasioned by the cupidity of territory or dominion? Has not the spirit of commerce, in many instances, administered new incentives to the appetite, both for the one and for the other?".............-- Alexander Hamilton, The Federalist No. 6, 1788
Ingermar Johansen
Stockholm, Sweden - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 18:07:18 (MDT)
wish i would hit the lotto
alvis
USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 17:16:10 (MDT)
hello flight,, dose anyone know what a gaf or a gfa # is some say the lower the better it is the man said he thinks mine will be about 40 is that good i think he sais it was good for me if some knows for can u tell me ray thamks
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 12:22:29 (MDT)
HEY RICK ENGLAND I HEARD THAT YOU ARE TRYING TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ME. I CALLED AND LEFT MY PHONE# WITH YOUR WIFE. I WORK THE 2ND SHIFT SO I FIXIN TO LEAVE IN A LITTLE BIT. YOU CAN SEND A E-MAIL AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS. NOT MUCH GOING ON AROUND HERE AT THE MOMENT,,,,LATER JIM
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 11:49:03 (MDT)
Fred and Gale thanks for the pics. They reminded me of last year and I sure hope I can make it. Ron I forgot what you had posted about getting more campsites can we dtill so that? I sure missed going. Thanks again. Flight be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 03:39:57 (MDT)
Thanks for the pictures Gale. I really enjoyed them.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 20:08:25 (MDT)
great pics Gale...thanks. Keith72-73
Ronald Keith Letson
USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 12:30:58 (MDT)
FRED THANKS FOR THE PICS IT SURE LOOKS LIKE EVERYONE WAS HAVING A GREAT TIME. GALE, DANNY HAD A YOUNG SON NAMED DANNY WHO WOULD BE IN HIS MID 30'S NOW,,,THANKS A MILLION BRO I'LL GIVE EM A CALL THIS WEEKEND IF I GET THE CHANCE AND WILL LET YOU KNOW THE RESULTS OF THAT CALL. I WORKING 3 WEEKS STRAIGHT AGAGIN SO THAT I CAN GO AND GET SOME MORE FLIGHT LESSONS,,THIS TIME I'M GOING TO TENN. UP IN THE MOUNTAINS. MABY IN A FEW MORE HOURS OF FLYING I'LL START TO FEEL LIKE I'M THE ONE IN CHARGE AND NOT THE PLANE,,,,TAKE CARE OUTTA HERE......JIM
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 12:02:15 (MDT)
Alvis, your e-mail is still being returned to me today!? Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 11:42:27 (MDT)
got them, thanks gale.
fred alvis <ghoastrider1@hotmail. com>
indianaoplis, in. USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 08:57:35 (MDT)
Katherine!! We talked you into changing your plans and joining us in Indy!!!! That's great! And you got a helicopter too, eh(is this kind of like an "invite" thing, Gale?). The photos are wonderful and keep me smiling, I hope you enjoy them. Thanks for taking the time you two. I'll have to figure out some way to get them made into photos(I don't have color on my computer at work). Sorry Sunday night didn't work out for you Gale(you were pretty raw), though I'm sure Monday did:>))). Time to sign off, I have to go to the "dunnie" mates. L-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 07:25:41 (MDT)
Kokomo was great as everyone has said. The weather was perfect (a little cool at night) but other than that great. thanks for making me feel so welcome at the camp site. It is still hard for me to come down and spend the day but it is getting easier. It was great seeing everyone. Gale, thanks for the picture. It is hanging proudly on the wall in the den so all may see. I am hoping to get my schedule rearranged so I can make it to Indy this summer. Judith, Thanks so much for the care you give to everyone. You are a great help to all. I love everyone of the 129th because you allow me to show my true feeling for you. I can not come up with the words to tell you what you mean to me. You make it easier to accept that Michael is gone but not forgotten. The ceremony helped a great deal even though I cried through most of it. It was very healing. Must go to work now. I hope to see you in Indy. Could someone let me know where it is going to be held so I can look into making reservations as soon as I am able to change my schedule. As always WELCOME HOME and thanks. Always a sister.
Katharine <fricabeunme@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 05:02:05 (MDT)
Hey, I found out why Elton John played for the 100th Harley anniversary!!! They heard he rode a Fat Boy and figgered he must own a bike!!! Scooter again. hehehe
Larry Kwiatkowski <chrger66@aol.com>
Simi Valley, CA USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 19:30:02 (MDT)
----- > > > Two boys from the mountains, Leroy and Jasper have > > > been promoted from privates to sergeants. Not long > > > after, they're out for a walk and Leroy says, "Hey, > > > Jasper, there's the NCO Club. Let's you and me stop > > > in." > > > > > > > > > "But we's privates," protests Jasper. > > > > > > > > > > > > "We's sergeants now," says Leroy, pulling him inside. > > > "Now, Jasper, I'm a-gonna sit down and have me a > > > drink." > > > > > > > > > > > > "But we's privates," says Jasper. > > > > > > > > > > > > "You blind, boy?" asks Leroy, pointing at his stripes. > > > "We's sergeants now." > > > > > > > > > > > > So they have their drink, and pretty soon a hooker > > > comes up to Leroy. "You're cute," she says, "and I'd > > > like to date you, but I've got a bad case of > > > gonorrhea." > > > > > > > > > > > > Leroy pulls his friend to the side and whispers, > > > "Jasper, go look in the dictionary and see what > > > gonorrhea means. If it's okay, give me the okay sign." > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > So Jasper goes to look it up, comes back, and gives > > > Leroy the big okay sign. > > > > > > > > > > > > Three weeks later Leroy is laid up in the infirmary > > > with a terrible case of gonorrhea. > > > > > > > > > > > > "Jasper," he says, "what fo' you give me the okay? > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, Leroy, in the dictionary, it say gonorrhea > > > affects only the privates." He points to his stripes. > > > "But we's sergeants now!" Keep on grinnin' "Scooter"
Larry Kwiatkowski <chrger66@aol.com>
Simi Valley, CA USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 19:27:33 (MDT)
Alvis, great pics ! I too failed to get a picture of Katharine........sorry. By the way Katharine, Michael Shanley was a gunner on a UH1-B (gunship) just like the one I gave you. If you e-mail me again I'll send you some pics. (beardatpaige1@cs.com) Judith, I thinks I over did it this time with B O cause it did'nt work. Oh well, will anyone ever figure women out? As far as Ron goes......did you notice that little "twinkle" on his cheek from the campfire? Hehhehheehhehe What a guy. I have'nt seen that much hunchin' since my dog Ralph got loose and tried to nail every poochie in the neighborhood. Had a good time , but, we need more 129ther's. Kinda tuff for an old man to sleep two nites in the back seat of that Mustang. Like Ron said, 30 years ago I would've had a girl with me in the back seat and never thought a thing about it. :o) I'm trying to get pictures out, so, let me know if I miss anyone. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 18:49:10 (MDT)

UGH, THIS IS JIM AGAIN MAKE THAT ADDRESS < JSTICKS8@EXCITE.COM > MAN WHERE DID THAT EXECUTE COME FROM,,I GOING TO FIRE THIS SEXYTARY,,,GOTTA GET READY FOR WORK,,,TAKE
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 12:42:03 (MDT)

HEY FRED DID NOT RECIEVE THE PICTURES. I JUST SET UP THIS ACCOUNT AND HAVE NOT RECIEVED ANYTHING ON IT YET,,,I DON'T KNOW. JUST IN CASE HERE THE ADDRESS AGAIN< JSTICKS8@EXCUTE.COM>. AFTER READING GENTLY'S POST SOUNDS LIKE EVERYONE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME,,,,,,JIM
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 12:38:47 (MDT)

susan and i are laughing at gentle ones post. Jim Oliver and Ray..i just sent out hte pics, hope u recieve them. alvis
alvis
USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 09:52:49 (MDT)

Well, Fred got a huey and I got the "moon." :>((( but in addition to that "moon" we all had a great time: sitting around the campsite day and night, visiting the 173rd and the Indy bikers, bonding deeper with those we met last year, the 129 reps deepening the bonds between each other, trying to understand and learn "aussie" talk(make that "dirty" aussie talk), eating the delicious turkey and ham created by the "Master-baster,"(you have to think about that word before you say it, at least Gale does:>)), watching Ron Paye, sir, hug, rather rub up against, well, anything that wasn't male, seeing the sparkle in a "cleaned up" Fred eyes because he is so-o-o in love with that very sassy, Susie(and we are so-o-o- happy for them), sitting with the Russian judge during the "ratings(We'd give a six to some of the women...and as they walked by the guys they'd get a "ten," geez, what low standards... and then of course, Ron Paye, sir, would have to rub up against them:)," visiting with Katherine and hearing that her husband, Richard, after 15 of these re-unions finally approached and spoke with men from his unit, meeting the Vietnamese in attendence, watching Ron Paye, sir, rub up against, well, oh, I said that already, my forcibly sitting next to Gale while he was trying to create the worst body-oder in the campsite(seems that last year, Debbie rather "enjoyed" his "smell" so he wanted to out do himself this year, he did, trust me. We certainly were with and among a supportive and warm group of people again this year. I'm sure we'll all be there again next year-please get hotel rooms, or sleep in Gale's mustang with him-the campsite was packed with so many tents and cars that Ron Paye, sir could only set up his "single" tent. Whereas, he was planning on sleeping with ...well, whomever responded to, you know. We missed Kal and Rick from last year, and hope you guys can make it next year...please know that we openly and warmly invite the rest of you to join us in this event of brotherhood next year. It's pretty awesome. And it will be interesting to see how Gale tries to out do himself then.... I hope he doesn't plan on doing such in Indy! It's always special for Katherine and I to see the 129th there because you guys bring Mike and Tom and all the others, along with you. You know we love you-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 09:26:57 (MDT)

hello alvis my e miail address is stilwating@aol.com i dont know y it comes back but cant wait to see the pic please try again ok be safe ray
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 06:47:02 (MDT)

alvis thanks for the pics. man you really did put a trim on that beard. wish i could have been there. hoping for Indy. Keith 72-73
Ronald Keith Letson
ms USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 04:26:49 (MDT)

I FORGOT TO SAY THAT I AM HAPPY TO HEAR THAT FRED SKAGGS AND JW WILSON CAME THRU THAT STORM OK,,,,MATERIAL THINGS CAN BE REPLACED,,,,FRED ALVIS HERE IS MY E-MAIL WHERE YOU CAN SEND THE PICS ,,,,BE SAFE,,,AGAIN THANKS FOR POSTINGS THE MESSAGE FOR DANNY,,,,LATER JIM
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 20:49:30 (MDT)

Jim Oliver, i will send you my pics when I try to send Rays again.Will try to do in the morning ( monday the 22nd).Wish I had better news for u,all we can do is keep on trying....over
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 20:02:10 (MDT)

ALVIS THANKS FOR POSTING I HAVE A FEELING THAT DANNY HAS A BETTER CREWING JOB THAN WE, BUT I DO APPRECIATE YOU POSTING. GALE GLAD THAT EVERYONE HAD A GOOD TIME I LOOK FORWARD TO INDY NEXT YEAR AND MEETING SOME MORE OF MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS. FRENCHIE CAME BY WORK TODAY,,FIRST TIME I HAD SEEN HIM SINCE ATLANTA,,,I THINK HE HAD A GOOD TIME AT MY WORK,,,THANKS FOR LUNCH BROTHER,,,HOW BOUT IT JANET DID HE COME BRAGING,,,,GENTLY I SO HOPE THAT YOUR WEEKEND WAS FILLED WITH JOY PEACE AND LOVE OF HUMANKIND,,,,OH 1 LAST THING I WOULD LOVE TO SEE PHOTO'S,,,GOTTA BE SOME GOOD ONES<:))JIM
jim oliver <>
pembroke, ga USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 19:56:52 (MDT)

Rick and kal...we missed you guys, were your ears burning? couple of side notes about kokomo... an offical party of north vietnamse ( with family and on vacation) came thru the camp . Gently, being gently, told them "your beucoup dinky dhow".laughing here still. as per Marks wishes, we went and said hello to the chained eagles( great group of pro "mia" bikers). they brought the 129th flag up for Mark.gently,susan.gale and myself also visted the 173 airborne who has made the "pop a top" their home as well.As members of the 129th, we were welcomed with open arms in both camps. We did do a brief ceremony for our fallen. Susan kept remarking that the "boys" in australia have nothing like this.She also was impressed by the love and kindness shown by all at the event. She was a little scared because of all the bikers and "scruffy" looking people.She soon felt at ease. I told her the event is like a mountian man gathering of old crossed with the attitudes of woodstock.Attitudes are left at the door. fellas, for those of u that havent attended a reunion, please give it a try.My first, i could only stay about 15 minutes. I was just to overwhelmed. now, its great.I am sure Mr. Page and Jim westwang had a bad case of the nerves at first. bet they wouldnt trade it for the world now and will attend another. laughing again, susan just reminded me of the full moon that was seen..and it wasnt in the sky..was it Ron? By the way..saterday morn i put a crank sensor on the beast..starts great now, every time. nite all ....over
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 19:55:29 (MDT)

glad u made it home safe gale. RAY... the darn e mails keep coming back. please e mail me so i can cut and paste ur addy (ghoastrider1@hotmail.com) the misspelling is intentional, but its my real addy. Hey Gale, send me a copy of picks,will you? please look at background of all the pics, lots there. check out gales glasses,,u can see the cobras
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 19:21:55 (MDT)

Flight, back from Kokomo, showered, napped.........good as new. Nights were pretty cold , but, the days were beautiful. Others from the 129th were Fred Alvis & Susan, Ron Paye, Gently and Katharine. I'll get my pictures out tomorrow. If interested...send me an e-mail. I hope all made it home safely. Later, Gale
Gale
USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 18:50:35 (MDT)

hey Alvis would shure like to see those Kokomo pics. Keith 72-73
Ronald Keith Letson <onereb@bellsouth.net>
corinth, ms USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 15:13:08 (MDT)

HELLO ALVIS THANKS FOR THINKING OF ME ON THE PIC CANT WIT TI GET RAY
RAY
MD USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 14:07:58 (MDT)

pics of kokomo are ready to be sent.they contain Ron Payne and his bike,Gale beard and his glasses,Gently and her scoring cards,sour puss me, and my wife Susan and her smile.Anyone wishing pics, e mail me please. Kathrine, good to see you again and how did you escape my camera? Lots of camp photos,lets you get an idea how big this thing is.Ray, I will send u the pics later today.Ron, I cant get thru your addy.GENTLY, GOT U LAST.Jim Oliver. I put up both ghostriders pics with Danny Sheppards name , no response.Gale, I have the huey sitting on my desk ,thank you again my friend.alvis,...over..
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 11:12:27 (MDT)

COLDWATER HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL.....rated NO.1 Division 4 in the state of Ohio.....My wife`s High School..... Upper Sandusky is rated No. 10 in the same division. Small town high school football in the state of Ohio is the best. Big School football is good also!!!!! Ohio puts more kids in "big time college" football than any other state, besides California and Florida. God I miss home(Ohio) this time of year.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 10:52:17 (MDT)

hello flihgt.. i like to thamk you for all yout concern you can bet one thong i never get on a roof again i dont even rember falling off now just got bruses and sore but doing better, thanks for caring glad kris spelt the word a mild con concusion i think i spelt it wrong a gain alex and fred skagga and rick thanks for your calls. and i thank you all who wrote me ,,like i say no more roofs ...i hope you are all having a grate time at kocomo if you can send pic oh a brother always ray be safe
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Saturday, September 20, 2003 at 07:36:00 (MDT)

gald to hear u folks rode the storm out without loss. get better fast ray. we worry about you. Fred, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do, dispite the "law".if I had ben there, I would have helped you. sounds like good thinking to me. cant make it to kokomo tonight (fri). Trying to put a crank sensor on the beast and ran into a bug. Book says dampner comes of by hand once the bolt is loose. NOT. Am held up trying to find right size bolts for my puller. 30 cents worth of bolts ,grrrr.I will go tomorrow, come hell or high water. Take Susans chevy Tracker if nothing else. Chuckle, its about 50 degrees outside and Susan is freezing her butt off. Says its like mid-winter there.Jim Westwang, hi buddy. see y'all later, over.
alvis
USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 20:43:47 (MDT)

Farewell Isabell, Welcome beauifull Carolina Blue Sky. We were lucky this time, only 32 hours with out power and not any damage. The eye of the hurricane pasted about 60 miles to northeast of me. Fred, all most of those new laws about wet lands and environment, lobby by "Ducks Unlimited" hurt more than do good. Why should you cut timber lands and have to leave a number of 60 feet high tree along the side of the highway to fall on power lines. There is more profit to be made by reseeding with young trees from the sate nursey or Weyerhauser seedling that will mature in 30 years. Ray ,you take care of your self.
J.W. Wilson
Kinston N.C., USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 17:48:02 (MDT)

Ridin The Storm Out!!!!! Kim and I decided to not to leave....she worries to much about our "stuff". Alot of wind and rain but no damage at all. My neighbor came over before it got bad and ask me if I cared(or would tell on him) if he were to cut down some of the taller trees on the farmer`s land behind us. It`s private property and against the law to "clear cut" the tree`s down here. Shit, I told him I would help him...so we talk to two more neighbors and they said they would help!!!!! So we all broke the law and cut down those tallest pine tree`s. So at "dusk" we slipped into the woods and cut them down. I`m sure one of them would have blown over and hit one of us. Got something in common with my neighbors now!!!!!! Guess you could call that" brothers in arms". All in all we dodged the bullet here in Raleigh. J.W. Wilson has that "hog farm" and those "hog lagoon`s" so I don`t know how bad he was hit. But his town(Kinston)???? was hit pretty good. They are not far from the coast. Just a wonderful day today....85 degrees and not a cloud in the sky......RAY!!!!!! Dude!!!!! Stay off them ladders man.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 14:27:26 (MDT)

Flight: Well talked to Ray and he's without power but, has telephone service at the moment. He is real sore and stiff after his fall from the ladder. Had to go to the ER last night. Has a concusion,cuts and bruises. Plus dizziness. He wanted me to let everyone know that he and Gail and the family were alright. Fred and J.W. and the rest of you 129th Brothers in N.C. and any of you hit by the storm. Your in our thoughts and prayers. We went through 100 mph straight line winds a few months ago. We had folks with out power for 6 weeks. Becarefull alot of flooding!! Kokomo!! sorry to miss it. But, know the 129th will be represented well. Take care Brothers and Sisters. Alex and Liz
Alex
USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 09:49:51 (MDT)

Thanks Kris for the update on your Dad and we're are glad he's ok. Flight, departing for LZ Kokomo. Fuel topped off, cooler topped off, top down and ready to cruise. ETA around 2pm. Full report when I return........clear. Gale
Gale
USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 09:22:36 (MDT)

Hi all. I am ray's daughter and I wanted to let you know that he is doing better. mild cucussion and some scratches. he will be on the computer sometime he is currently without power. thanks for everyone's concern.
Kris <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
balt, md USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 08:00:01 (MDT)

Yes, We will be in Kokomo. wouldn't miss it for the world. It is always hard for me but I still come. My husband who is a vietnam vet helps alot. He gives me lots of support. I know Michael Shanley is there also. So we will see you Sat afternoon maybe early evening. As always Welcome Home and Thanks. Katharine
Katharine
USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 06:59:22 (MDT)

Hope everyone has a good one at Kokomo, This is to extend my thoughts & prayers for all of you in the path of ISABEL, Fred Skaggs, Don Purvis, Mike Miles, & all the others in that area. Keep it tight & battened down. Respects, Smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@bresnan.net>
sheridan, wy USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 06:12:12 (MDT)

Alvis, Jim Oliver I believe. Kal, nice hearing from you....wish you could make it. Ron, did you change spots? I thought it was spot 34!? Nevertheless, I'll find it. See you tomorrow. Gale
Gale
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 19:23:39 (MDT)

Flight, Camping spot at Kokomo is 439West. Be there or be square. See some of you tomorrow. Cobra 34
Ron Paye
Indy, IN USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 19:15:12 (MDT)

crap, i am getting old. I wrote down the name Danny Shepard, but forgot who ask me to look out for him. neep some help here.
alvis
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 17:06:30 (MDT)

Hey, good to see we will be well represented at Kokomo. Gale, Alvis, Ron and Gently, you all have a good time and we will be looking forward to see the posts on things. JW- I hope things are well over your way as I see your town is only 44 ft ASL. A high tide with some big swells and waves could do that town in.. Especially with all the rain you have been having this year. I hope all goes well for all of you over that way. Ray- I hope the fall wasn't too bad!! I guess you never think about falling till it happens and then wonder why...?? You'all take care!! C U L8r... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu(a)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 16:15:41 (MDT)

Thanks Don, will get with you. Thanks for coming by work Ron Payne, always a pleasure to see and talk to you.Thanks again for the pass into kokomo. Wondering how i am gfoing to work this, i have to take daughter to work 5 pm friday. hmm, 2 hour drive north,smile, lots of time left to come up and say howdy.if anyone needs anything, let me know, as I will be driving back and forth each day. I liked that touch about campfire and faces,very good mental image it presented, nice picture.and yes, when the wind stirs the corn leaves, it might be our brothers smiling and laughing with us, once again. Till then, over.
alvis
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 11:15:40 (MDT)

You can babysit as long as my backyard is considered the entire re-union site:">)) So get those running shoes on-or maybe Ron Paye, sir, can just keep the bike motor running. Yes, the vendors will miss Joe, and he will miss them. He always talks to Veterans about being able to get "any thing" Vietnam related at Kokomo, and we sure know that to be true don't we! Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 10:04:31 (MDT)

How could "you" forget that? It was right in your face !! So glad that you are going to make it Judith. Doesn't Joe know that those venders are looking forward to him being there? Alvis, I guess we have to cancel the "hopscotch" game since Judith is gonna be there with "her games". We can still have the scotch tho. Now we have the "babysitting" thing to contend with again.....heheehhehhehehheh! Gale
Gale
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 09:29:51 (MDT)

Oh yah-I forgot about the "moon(s)". Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 09:23:01 (MDT)

Way down..."up" in Kokomo........we're gonna get there fast and take things slow! Rick, we're gonna miss ya buddy. I'll tip a couple brewskies for ya, but, I don't think that Alvis & I together could drink your share!!!:o]Heheeheheehe. Katherine, you & your hubby still gonna make it? Would be nice to see you both again. Rainer & Dee, how 'bout you guys? Mark, Dee, Kal, Judith & Joe........it won't be the same widout ya :o[ The weather is gonna be perfect for camping. Lower 70's, upper 40's and a harvest moon (and I hopes that's the only moon thats out this weekend),nothin' but cornstalks around ya, the glow of campfires reflecting off so many faces as thousands of Vietnam vets (some with wives, girlfriends & children)come together with one common ground. The campfires tell a story, as one side of the face reflects good times,then, as the face turns....the other side reflects the somber thoughts of our fallen brothers from 30-40 years ago til now. Our fallen brothers & sisters "will" be with us at Kokomo..................................... .........................................................................clear left.
Gale
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 08:27:17 (MDT)

Good morning flight-Ray fell off a ladder this morning. Dah! Ray-what were doing on a ladder? We've already had a chat about such over coffee this AM, so now he just needs to heal: sore back and scratches. But try to keep in touch with him over the weekend....just in case his back gets worse, or something else rears its ugly head. Ray...Ray...Ray...please keep your feet on the ground. I will be in Kokomo:>)). My friend, Emily Strange, who was a Donut Dollie in the Mekong(68), will be driving and has offered to take me as baggage. Now the Dollie, who flew almost everyday(in choppers)to firebases in the Mekong area, drives alittle slow, I anticipate that the five hour drive will take 6-ick! We will probably just beat Ron Paye, sir, to the camp site(440W, I believe). I have made "rating cards" in the event we decide that Gale needs a good smack, and we need a couple of laughs. I didn't get a kite because I've just decided to go....maybe I can pick one up along the way. I understand we will be in mud due to the weather, so I hope Ron Paye, sir, has water proof tents. We will miss Joe's presence this year because he has several obligations that take priority. He, and the others who are not attending, will simply be people we talk about-and the Lord knows, we have a lot of ammo on most of you:>))). See you tomorrow, for laughs and memories-Gently!
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 08:13:16 (MDT)

............hey Kokomo bound..you all have a great time there..weather looks real good.Looks great for the wedding also...........hey Mr. Paye!!!!.I sent the 129th flag along with the Chained Eagles. Howie said he would make sure you get it. They will be located on the same side as you guys but up by the highway entrance. just to the west of the entrance. They will have campers and such......stop in and see them.............and if you get a chance, stop in and see the 173rd HERD. They camp on the south side, up past the band stand in the middle. Will have campers and such. Say hey to Spence for me..you all take care...........always a brother and sister.Mark and Dee..........be careful on the east coast friends..............
Mark jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 07:55:00 (MDT)

Thanks Ron. Does that mean my ears will be ringing more than usual? hehehehe. Hug the dog for me.hehehehe. If any of you guys sleep with Ron good luck.hehehehe Flicht have a good time tip one for me or two, be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 07:47:38 (MDT)

Flight, Will be heading up to Kokomo tomorrow after the POW/MIA ceremony. Hope to be there around 3:00. I will have two tents. One three man (good for two) and one two man (Good for one or two good friends). If anyone needs a place to stay they are welcome. Just bring your own sleeping pad and bag. If you share one with me, ya might want to bring your ear plugs. I look forward to seeing everyone that can make it. Anyone not going, you can expect to have ringing in your ears, as we will be talking about you. Rick! We will miss you. I will have to carry your share of tables, and chairs. The dog says to tell you to get your butt out here. He is tired of sleeping alone. Take care everyone. Love and Brotherhood. Ron Paye
Ron Paye
Indy, IN USA - Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 06:42:08 (MDT)

Alvis, I was in the AZ National Guard with a guy named Jarvis. send me an E-mail at the address below. give me some info about him and I will see if it is the same guy. I retired in 96 but I still have some connections. LOL I was going to call up there today but got busy at work till it was too late to call. Later, Don
Don Miller <hogleg244@yahoo.com>
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 21:40:00 (MDT)

HELLO FLIGHT,, AND ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS GOING TO KOKOMO WANT TO WISH YOU ALL A SAFE TRIP AND MAY YOU HAVE A GRATE TIME, AND FOR YOU ALL NOT GOING LIKE ME I HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL IN INDY WE BE THERE FOR SURE. SO YOU ALL BE SAFE, BUT HAVE A GRATE TIME, GENTLY & JOE CANT MAKE IT. I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU LIKE IT RICK I HATE TOSEE YOU MIS ITTO I BELIVE YOU DONT MISS MANY EITHER .WELL I KNOW WE SEE EACH OTHER IN INDY OH TALKED TO BUD, HES DOING GOOD, STILL HASN'T BEEN NEAR THE PUTER , BUT SAYS HI. HAD A GOOD TALK WITH HIM. WELL YOU ALL BE SAFE, BOY I SURE HOPE ITS THIS WEEEK YOUR ALL GOING TO KOKOMO IF NOT READ THIS THE DAY BEFORE YOU GO. JUSY BE SAFE A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY, AGAIN THANKS FOR ALL YOUR SUPORT I LET YOU ALL KNOW HOW IT TURNS LOVE YA ALL AND THANKS I HOPE I MADE NO MISTAKES
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
STREET, MD USA - Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 07:39:52 (MDT)

You guys in the path be careful out there********** Jim O. thanks for the info. I am going to check on it. We have a seebee in my group that is a pilot that flys those bi-planes and does acrobatic stuff. I don't think I want t o do that.HEHEHEHEHE*******Also Jim they have both rotor and fixed wing lessons at Glendale AZ. airport. The Iron Butterfly update there is none I haven't heard or can I contact them any more. I don't know what is going on. Maybe they ran out of money?????I wish they would contact me if they read this my e-mail hasn't changed. Fl8ight be careful out there Clear left.
RickEngland
USA - Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 07:24:15 (MDT)

fred scaggs,,,,,,good luck buddy .to u and yours , and your home. keps ur heads down east coast folks. hey lurch, read one of your post from long ago... do you think that switch ever gets turned back on?
alvis
USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 23:05:01 (MDT)

HEY FRED SKAGGS I WAS THINKING ABOUT YOU WHEN I WAS UP IN LANCASTER,,,AND THE ANSWER IS NO THEY ARE GETTING CLOSER BUT ALL THE RAIN HAS DELAYED A LOT OF THE ROAD PROJECTS. I FEEL FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HAVING TO EVAC,,,WHEN FLOYD CAME THRU HERE AND EVERYONE HAD TO EVAC I LUCKED OUT BY BEING ON THE NITE SHIFT,,MY WIFE HOWEVER IT TOOK HER 4.5 HRS TO GET HOME, NORMALLY A 45 MIN DRIVE. JW THEY ARE BAD WHETHER THEY BE REDNECK OR NOT..RICK ENGLAND GOOD TO SEE YOU POST,,,MAN I'M HAVING A BALL BUT IT'S REALLY HARD TO FIND A INSTRUCTOR AND PLANE,,,I FOUND 2 PLACES 1 IN OHIO, THAT'S NICE IT'S BY MY SISTERS PLACE AND 1 IN TENN. IT'S CLOSER. RICK IF YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO FLY LIKE I HAVE THEN NOW IS THE TIME TO JUMP ON BOARD,,,,BIG BROTHER IS FIXIN TO RELEASE A NEW RATING BELOW A PRIVATE,,IT'S A SPORT/RECREATION RATING AND YOU WILL BE ABLE TO CARRY A PASSENGER,,,FLIGHT TRAINING COST ABOUT 80 BUCKS PER HR.HERE A WEBSITE IN TENN. YOU CAN CHECK OUT "FLYULTRALITES.COM" I'M TAKING LESSONS IN THE CHALLENGER,,,IT'S A REAL THRILL TO FLY BUT THE LANDING ON MY HOLD ON CAUSE IT'S SQUIRLLY.,,,RAY GAGNER HOW YA DOING BUDDY,,BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES AND GET READY FOR THIS STORM,,,,AS RICK SAYS BE SAFE
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 23:04:58 (MDT)

welcome back home ollie. This site is growing and its good to see. wonder id woodward will ever come in, i went to school with his brother and sister, were friends of mine. couldnt believe it when i saw him working in maintainace. fellow named Moke also. he "big brothered me when i was a newbe, taught me enough to keep me alive. he was from long island, ny. ok guys, there were( as far as i know) 2 units in vietnam called ghostriders.The one i was transfered to after gabby lost the ship was 60th ahc.out of ninh hoa.above nha trang and at the white horse div. headquarters compound.that would have been around jan of 72. april 18th of that year, both my room mates were kia. so if any of u guys meet someone who remembers this, please have them contact me. they have a site, but it really sucks and am not sure its still active.I am trying to establish one at geo cities, but i am pretty stupid when it come to these things.hell. lots of things if i think about it. chuckle.Rick, there is one ghostrider from tempe az. that i would love to find.His name is jarvis( last i think) He was part of our crowd and i was the one that told him tom and david were dead.I had just gotten conformation myself, and i am afraid i was a little rough in breaking the news.This man was a good friend and i crushed him like an empty soda can..to this day i have a great deal of guilt. I need to talk to him, to explaine, to make amends... something. chit, i am letting out to much, anyway, hope its someone i know. thanks. fa
alvis
USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 22:52:35 (MDT)

Flight please be careful of the storm. This is not a stranger to us in the desert. We have had winds up to 105 mph. I have seen trailers rolling in the desert.********* Ollie welcome home. Hope to see you in Indy for the reunion. Contact the www.vhcma.com for info.*******Mark we are glad to hear that your Dad is doing better and our best to you and Dee.********** Jim Oliver you are living my dreams of flying. Be careful out there.******Gus its good to hear from you. I remember when you and Vernon Clark was reactionary team leaders and we were in the bunker after tet. Do you remember any of the other guys in out team.******* Gale and Fred wish I could be there with you guys. I sure will miss being there. Check out the brothers from the 173rd. Be careful out there.*********Fred Alvis I have a ghostrider in my group at the Vet center. I don't have his full name I will post it when I get it tomorrow. Filght please be careful out there. Clear left.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
phoenix , Az USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 19:59:11 (MDT)

Welcome home Ollie, Jim Oliver, I hope Isabel is a spanish name and not a redneck name. Those Redneck hurricanes are bad in N.C. , Hazel in 54, Bertha in 96, and Floyd in 99. Bertha got the shingles on the roof of my house and Floyd got my hog house. It about 40 miles in direct line to the ocean from here. clear
J.W. Wilson
Kinston , N.C. USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 19:17:29 (MDT)

I`m Outta Here......I`m headed to Ashville in the mountains, still don`t think it`s gonna be as bad as the Blizzard of 1978 in Ohio, or the Typhoon of 1970 in Viet-Nam, but everyone down here are freakin out!!!! What`s gonna happen is gonna happen, that`s it!!!! My wife`s whining about the furniture and stuff....that`s material shit....always buy that stuff back. Jim Oliver...have they started that "Lancaster By-Pass" yet on 33. I can remember when Route 33 was all farms between Columbus and Lancaster. Now it`s Wal-Marts and fast-food joints and pre-fab housing developements and traffic lights every hundred feet. That`s Progress.....
Fred Skaggs
Isabel, NC USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 17:42:38 (MDT)

ALEX I LIKE THAT SOUND ALSO,,OLLIE, YEAH THAT SOUNDS BOUT RIGHT..WELCOME HOME BROTHER...THANKS FOR THE WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT ON THE FLIGHT TRAINING,,,I WANT ME ONE OF THEM LITTLE BIRDS, BUT THE TRAINING COMES FIRST. JW BROTHER BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES,,THINGS AREN'T LOOKING GOOD WITH THIS STORM,,,TO ALL THE BROTHERS AND SISTERS AFFECTED BY THIS STORM MAY YOU HAVE A BEAUTIFUL RAINBOW IN THE END,,,I SEE NO OTHER GOOD THINGS COMING OUT OF IT, CERTAINLY NOT THE WIND AND RAIN. DENNIS GLAD YOUE DAD IS DOING BETTER,,,AND ALSO IT'S GOOD TO HEAR YOU'RE GETTING A NEW SON. YOU AND DEE TAKE CARE BROTHER....WELL TIME TO GET READY FOR WORK,,,,TAKE CARE ALL,,,,,OLLIEWOOD
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 12:26:39 (MDT)

Flight: Well first want to Welcome Home all our new Brothers whom found the best site on the net!!! Welcome Home!! Gently, Gale and Alvis glad you are keeping everything rock'in and roll'in here at the 129th home!! Well too many hour of work, know how you feel Kal I get a very few 7 days a week, lose track of the days and weeks. Ho! Alvis wasn't you a Ghost Rider?? Met a piolt from the Sky Soldiers from Atlanta that was with the unit. Don't know If Iam going the first week in Oct. to fly with them here in Tenn. After the June reunion and that first Huey ride in 37 years, has got the old Blood boiling when it comes to being back on the huey. Jim Oliver glad the flying is coming along and if you start selling the alking sticks let me know. Ray, glad to talk to you the other day. Hang in there for the ride, your 129th family is beside you all the way. Fred Sckaggs most important Ohio state game is Michigan and they need to kick some butt. Hope the Hurricane don't hit you all over there in NC. and the rest of you Bite and Striker's in NC. Mark glad your Father is doing much better. And also the wedding went well also. And that you and Dee are doing much better. Well a little set back on our house. The damned concrete truck back into the side of the house. Did quite a bit of damage. Still can't see how he could miss seeing the house. Well My Brothers and Sisters have a great day. Always thing about you all!! Alex 129th 65-68
Alex
USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 09:39:55 (MDT)

Welcome "Ollie!" Love the name, tends to being a smile to one's face, but let us know if you desire another. This is your new home, and soon you will be hearing from your brothers. Meanwhile, spend sometime in the "Photo Gallery." Link to it from the home page, light up a cigar, put your feet up, get out a magnifying glass, and start to re-new old friendships. Mark and Dee- enjoy the wedding, and we hope all goes well. Alvis and Gale, Ron Paye didn't have the big tent at Kokomo-it belonged to our "turkey man." And yes, he will have it this year. Ron P. barely brings anything that will hold more than two, and that's on purpose:>) Jim Oliver, er, make that Pilot Jim Oliver...like the sound? Just becareful! When that beard blows up and over your face make sure you to know where to find "auto-pilot" or at least the person next to you:>)) Cheers to all-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 07:29:30 (MDT)

hi all! my name is oliver ward. i served with the 129th from about june 1968 to oct 1968. before that i was with hhc 268th cab in phu hiep from apr 1967 to june 1968. i was with the original unit that trained at and deployed from grey army airfield @ ft. hood, tx. at that time capt. page was co and major levy was xo. i have seen one name that i recognize on this site, bud boenig aka bud the stud. he deployed from ft. hood with us and later was transfered to the 129th ahc. while at 129th together we renewed our friendship. bud was a crewchief with the "cobras", and i flew several missions with him. bud, if you read this, please contact me at ...paxcampio@yahoo.com... i would like to say hello and ask if you have any photos of the old gang. i think about you guys a lot. joe napoli, pete vitale(i went to central connecticut state university in new britain, ct. a young friend of a class mate was from union, nj and was friends with pete's son. small world. chester simpkins, whitehead, ed worrell and renaldo morrero...are a few of the guys i remember. douglas noel from the 1st cav, who could forget him. it would be great to talk to or even see some you again. when i get a chance i will post one of my better photos. hope to hear from you old "buddy"! god bless you and all former 268th and 129th personel. oliver ward sep 16 2003.
oliver neal ward <paxcampio@yahoo.com>
rocky hill, ct USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 06:36:42 (MDT)

....Hey you guys going to Kokomo. Dont worry bout makin' a trip over here to Coldwater. Stay there and enjoy yourselves there. To much fun to miss out on there.....have a great tinme. Looks like the weather is going to be great......take care all........always a brother and sister.....Mark and Dee
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 05:48:51 (MDT)

Alvis, not sure yet if I'm driving the Stang or truck. I can't sleep in the car. Coldwater is a good 2 hour drive. Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 22:43:14 (MDT)

scotch is good... want mine on the rocks please. drink it straight and u will see some hop scotching. Mark, we will miss u both this weekend. Perhaps I can talk gale into making a side rode trip.gale, u driving the mustang?
alvis
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 22:31:23 (MDT)

.......hi family...........want to wish all a good day and those going to Kokomo, have a great time. Dee and I will miss you there, but our baby is getting married this saturday. If you get a chance ride over to Coldwater and come to the American Legion where the reseption is in the evening...........My dad looks better then I have seen him in two years. I swear the ole buzzaed has 9 lives and went through number 7 and 8 the other week. I picked him up at the hospital and dropped him back off at the Garage the other week. Silly guy.....but he sure looks good after having total kidney failure, Heart failure, a blood clot in the left young and being on a ventalater for 1and 1/2 days.........he came out smilin' though.............Dee and I are doing really great and still dry. Feel better, sleep better, work better, and think better. Having a great time.........take care and be careful this weekend..........am working on getting all the new guys names up now....WELCOIME HOME to all of you..........always a brother and sister...Mark and Dee
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 18:20:13 (MDT)

Yeh Gently, you think we're weird or sumthin'. I thought that me & Alvis might get a serious game of "hop-scotch" goin'. Maybe tournaments with a little $$ on the side. How 'bout that ? Ron, are you going to have a big tent there this year or not ? Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 14:41:56 (MDT)

HELLO FLIGHT,, AND ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN PATH OF THIS BIG STORM I PRAY YOU ALL COME THREW IT SAFELY,, SEEN ON TV LOOKS LIKE IT MAY COME RIGHT UP THE BAY IN MD THAT WILL BUT US DEAD CENTER BUT NO MATTER WHERE LOTS OF US WILL BE EFECED ,,I JUST WORRIE ABOUT THE BIG THEE IN FRONT OF THE HOUSE IT LEANS TOWARDS IT IT BUT IF IT FALLS I SEND PIC I PRAY FOR YOU ALL ON THE EAST COST FOR WE ALL WILL FEEL IT THIS IS A BIG ONE SO YOU ALL BE SAFE AGAIN I THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPORT I LRT U ALL KNOW HOW U=IT GOES BE SAFE ALL A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY I FEEL I HAVE BEEN TRILY BEEN BLESSED TO HAVE SUCH GOOD FRIENDS AND I MEAN THIS TO ALL OF U FROM MY HEART
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 11:19:47 (MDT)

an 8? jeeze Gale is correct, u have to be there for that game, or it sure makes us look very strange, in a wierd kinda way. HEY jIM oLIVER, have you made any pretend straffing runs yet? What your doing sounds like a ball.keep the nose up.
alvis
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 07:20:53 (MDT)

Alvis, got ya covered. Gently.................we can't play that game without you there! :o[[[. Jim Oliver, proud of ya man....have fun with it! Be care & goodluck to all of our brothers & sisters on the East coast.....looks like the hurricane is comin' at ya. Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 07:13:22 (MDT)

And if he walks by, will you give him an 8? Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 06:57:07 (MDT)

hey jim oliver, I will try to remember to put up a small sign with danny shepards name on it. who knows, he may walk by and see it. Gale, please remind me to do that. over
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 14, 2003 at 21:13:42 (MDT)

HEY KAL YOU GOT THAT RIGHT ABOUT BEING HARD,,,IT'S VERY HARD TO LAND. I'VE GOT 5 HRS IN SO FAR AND SURE AM NOT EVEN CLOSE TO SOLOING,,,MY INSTRUCTIOR SAYS I DOING GREAT AND I'M HAVING A BALL,,,AT LONG LAST. I SPENT SOME TIME WITH MY SON AND EX,,THEY LIVE IN MIDWAY,,,I'M SURE YOU MAY NO WHERE THAT'S AT LEE. MY FLYING LESSONS WERE IN LANCASTER, OHIO,,,WILL BE LOOKING FOR A PLACE CLOSER TO HOME NEXT WEEK. ALVIS CAN'T SAY I'M A WOOD WORKER BUT I DO ENJOY MAKING WALKING STICKS,,,GO OUT IN THE WOODS AND FIND THE WOOD AND GO FROM THERE,,,EVERYONE SEEMS TO ENJOY THEM. ALVIS THERE WAS A CREWCHIEF THAT I WAS STATIONED WITH AT FT KNOX HIS HOMETOWN IS KOKOMO,,,HIS NAME IS DANNY SHEPHERD, HE HAD A SON AND DAU. I ALWAYS WONDERED WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO DANNY. DAVE POWERS JUST SEND WHAT EVER YOU HAVE ON THE FLIGHT LOG TILL I CAN GET SOMEONE TO FIX MY PUTER. MY DAUGHTER PUT THIS PROGRAM FROM SCHOOL AND IT'S TAKING MY COMPUTER OVER WON'T LET ME DELET,,,AAAAH,,,EVERYBODY BE SAFE
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Sunday, September 14, 2003 at 19:49:02 (MDT)

HI TOM MARR, DID YOU CREW A GUN SHIP? IF SO, I THINK YOU MIGHT BE THE ONE THAT HAD A HOT START AND DIDN'T KNOW IT. YOU PULLED PART OF THE ENGINE OUT WITH YOUR HAND AT A 100 HR P.E. I CREWED 901 TIGER WAGON. MY SHIP HAD A TIGER ON THE BATTERY COVER. LEE WOOD JULY 67/AUG 68.
LEE WOOD <cwood86700@aol.com>
DAYTION, OH USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 19:38:40 (MDT)

Hello to all you Bite and Strikers!!.. Boy, where to begin.. I had missed reading for a few days and it seemed like it took all night to get to the last post.. Good to see the activity!!..Mark.. Good to see you post and I offer a big hand salute in memory of 257!! How is your father doing?, well I hope!!... Jim O.- I hope you are having fun at those flight lessons, they aren't as easy as people would have you think. Wait till you try one of those "whirley-birds"...Rice E. & Gently - Your posts on last years Kokomo sure brought back the memories, especially when Rick mentioned that fart.. That was one to remember to stay away from. I hope to make it next year... Gus.. Good to see you are still out there...Smitty- Sorry to hear of your health problems! Keep yourself in shape as I want to see you again it Indy!!...Ray G.- I hope your test come out well and it sounds like you are making some headway now. I believe you have at least have been getting some attention in stead of the run-a-round you were getting...Al Cooper- Welcome home!! Glad you found us. There is a fine group of us here looking forward to meeting up with you... Tom Marr- Those tail numbers sure sound familiar. What platoon were you with? I left for home 8/68 and may well have flown with you....Don Miller- Good to see you post also!... Now... All is well with me.. Looks like I am back to 7 days a week work sched for a while. Will miss all you folks at Kokomo next weekend but something else has priority. Next year, I hope.. Indy for sure!!!. Take care all!!!..C U L8r.. Kal..>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu(a)email.com>
Saint Joseph, Mich USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 18:10:38 (MDT)

miller lite sure beats natural ice. No, i didnt have any of the turkey last year, took up to much beer room.yes, i have been trying to think of a dish to bring up.going to try to bring up my best friend the days sue doesnt come. He was a grunt and worse still, airborne, but i dont hold that against him.we all make mistakes. you sure that was rick and ron? I thought i heard rick moaning his own name.he hee hee hee.I prefer to sleep in the car anyway, rain sounds better on the roof. Welcome to the site new guys, pull up a chair and get comfy. still crazy, alvis ps.. how come when people miss out from work, the ask if they are sick, when I miss out, they ask if i have been arrested?
alvis
USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 15:41:19 (MDT)

WELCOME HOME Al. glad you found us. come back often, lots going on with the 129th, mini re-unions etc. great bunch of guys and gals. Later, Don Mar 69-70
Don Miller <hogleg244@yahoo.com>
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 15:31:09 (MDT)

Just found this site and read the posts on "257". I flew with DeSantis and Sawran and very vagely remember Hargraves and Jackson. If my memory serves me, they were on a night mission, with low clouds and unfortunaely ran into a mountain top. I hadn't recalled the date, but I'm very glad someone did. They were all good people and soldiers. Thanks for reminding us to remember, Al Cooper-129th,2nd Plt,WO1(Oct68-Oct69)
Al Cooper <abcooper@adelphia.net>
Enterprise, AL USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 14:33:01 (MDT)

Alvis, looks like they're calling for nice weather next weekend....that'll be great. Did you get some of that turkey last year......melted in your mouth. I'm taking a side dish to go with the turkey dinner. How 'bout you? I'm also taking a case of Miller Lite, or as Ron calls it "limp dick beer". I'll show him if I get to sleep in the same tent with him !;o]]] Rick said last year that he was pretty easy........or least he said "someone" was pretty easy.......it was awful dark. Hmmmmmm, I might sleep in my truck again. Later, Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 11:18:10 (MDT)

HELLO ALL ,, GALE I SENT YOU AN E MAIL I HOPE IT GOSE THREW IF IT DOSE ADD TO ADDRESS BOOK I DONT KNOW why you GET THEM BACK .. BUT THANKS FOR CAREING ,,,JUST GOT SO MUCH GOING ON IN SIDE. DRIVEING ME NUTS BUT IAM GOING TO GO THREW WITH IT . MY E MAIL IS stilwating@aol.com I hope you got mine i sent many to u but got no answer so u may not have gotten either.AGAIN THANKS ALL FOR YOUR HELP A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY ..OH WE WILL BE IN IN INDY
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
USA, md USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 11:14:45 (MDT)

5 days and a wake up
.alvis
USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 09:26:55 (MDT)

Ray, do what you need to do Buddy.....Debbie & I wish you the best of luck ! I tried your e-mail, but, it comes back to me !? Gus, how are you doing, it's been a while. Gonna try to make a "Pop A Top" run any time soon? Let us know......or maybe Indy next year. Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 08:42:24 (MDT)

Tom Marr Yes I remember. Good to see you in here. Ted "Gus" Gustafson 67-69 394th,CE Bulldog 234, Cobra 949
Ted "Gus" Gustafson
Grand Rapids, MN USA - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 19:56:22 (MDT)

Hi flight, there is going to be a big celebration commemorating the first of the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk, N.C. December 12th thru December 17th with a replica of the first airplane flying on morning and afternoon of 17th. If you want more information you can search Wright Brothers Memorial. clear
J.W. Wilson
USA - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 17:35:11 (MDT)

HELLO FLIGHT,, AND ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS I WANT TO THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR HELP ABD SUPORT IAM GOING TO GO THREW IT AND HAVE IT DONE. WE JUST HAVE TO SEE HOW IT GOSE,,I BE SURE TO LET YOU ALL KNOW HOW IT GOSE AGAIN I THANK YOU ALL FROM MY HEART. THANKS FOR BEING THERE. I TRUELY LOVE AND CARE FOR YOU ALL. ONE DAY I BE THERE TO HELP ANOTHER PERSON LIKE ME,, BE SAFE.. SEE YOU ALL IN INDY, A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY AGAIN I THANK YOU ALL
RAY <stilwating#aol.con>
street, MD USA - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 16:09:28 (MDT)

Today September 12 is Michael H. Shanley's birthday. I will not forget him.
Katharine
USA - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 15:38:50 (MDT)

Let us pause for a moment and remember the men of 257th clear, J. W.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 11:17:18 (MDT)

Ray is not doing well today-he's frustrated and scared. Drop him a post if you have a minute. He's having a very, very difficult time with the "going under" idea from the Vet Center. My heart beats slowly for the "257" and the families left behind(Mark). Always there-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 09:32:58 (MDT)

I have been working on the PTSD stuff and the topamax with some success. Also have been letting Gently pass info on to Ray during their daily e-talk. If I ever get off of 4-12 shift I will have more on those two. As for the other I agree that you, Ray should go for it. Jim is correct with his comments and I know they have had huge amount of successes with it. Keep us up to date and feel free to e-mail me anytime. Jim W. don't get down and enjoy your kids. My prayers to the "257" families and the 9-11 victims.
JEFF
USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 20:20:26 (MDT)

I would like to not only take this time to Honor those on "257", (They gave ALL)., I use my sisters birthday as a remember because they went down on her 17th (Sept 12), But i would also honor those From 9-11-01, that terrible day 2 years ago as i am sure you all do. Prayers to all those & your brother, Robbie, I hope he does well. Fred & all, I am not dying, I have a lot of health problems that include some agent Orange stuff & I just had a couple friends pass away because of it, actually , this will allow me to devote more time to my kids et al, Ray Gagner, remember, they cannot take from your head what is not in there & I have seen some of this work before, as others have said, i would give it a shot. I don't know if Jeff Sauers has commented to you about it or not. Snapper, if you have e-mailed Ray, great, if not, what's your take on it?? Respects to all, Smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@bresnan.net>
sheridan, Wy. USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 14:55:24 (MDT)

.......in memory of the crew of the "257" that lost their lives today 34 years ago. PFC HARGRAVE STEPHAN LEE G 690912 UH-1H 67-17257 SPC4 JACKSON LAWRENCE DAVID CE 690912 UH-1H 67-17257 CW2 DESANTIS STEPHEN ANTHONY AC 690912 UH-1H 67-17257 WO1 SAWRAN RICHARD ARTHUR P 690912 UH-1H 67-17257 ..............I say today because it was the 11th back here............also,........Larry is 55 today. Happy Birthday Larry................and those that parished on 9/11/01...talk later......always a brother and sister.....Mark and Dee
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 11:49:16 (MDT)

Tom Marr your name sounds familiar. were you in the 2 flt plt? I was there in 68 jan 69 jan. Welcome home.
Rick England
USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 11:16:20 (MDT)

Welcome Tom! Take off your shoes, put on some slippers, and join us. Jim O.-I did forget you were going flying, and all that time I spent worrying about you was for naught...on the other hand, maybe you're flying is a reason for worry in itself:>)) Fred and Jim, I'd love to see you two join up with Ron Paye for a mini-ride to the re-union in Indy-I bet there's even more of you out here who could join in, and those of us who are not "owners" could dress like "bikers and biker babes" and welcome you at the hotel! As Rick would say YIKES!!!!! Thank you all for addressing Rays'concerns, you know how much he counts on your input and support. JW, = on the poster thing. Fred, you would be bewilderd by Jim's walking sticks-they are beautiful, smooth, intricate, but not for sale. Damn! Jim, how about making one a raffle gift(129 only)for the next re-union. We could then use the money to pay the webmaster and have a fund started for our Christmas Giving. Actually, if anyone has anything they would like to bring to raffle off, let me know, and I'll take over the responsibility of organizing a raffle. We could display them in our "gathering " room, and give them out on Saturday evening before the banquet. Any thoughts on that anyone? Alex, do we have to get a raffle license, or could the 129th go under the raffle license that the Helicopter crew already has? And would there be a problem with our doing this-I don't want to take away from the big raffle and auction on Saturday evening. Lewt me know. Always there and always in the way :>)))Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 08:48:13 (MDT)

i agree with gale and robby, do the going back. I think it would scare the hell out of me to do that ray, but what options do you have? stay as you are, get wrose, or get better.As had been said, we are here for you.Robby, good luck on the job, seems all the decent jobs are going away.Another prayer said for your brother..and one for you smitty. You better not die b4 i see you again, I have stood over to many friends graves and had that " one last drink together". Sides, Gently has intriqued me over this dancing of yours. Who would have ever thunk it.:) Isnt only us that can drink. Jim, I remember us playing spades in your hooch and being on stand by for the fire fly mission. The call came up and I remember seeing you run to the flight line...in a crooked line. I wasnt any better either. By gosh, we made it up on time and was armed to the teeth. I believe I had a m- 60 with the flash suppressor cut off. gunt style of course.They wouldnt let us shoot the people in the wire till they got confromation..by then, they were gone. hey jim oliver, as a wood worker myself, I would love to see your walking sticks. oh, smitty. I live right off interstate "74"going into the west side of indy. Knowing you, you will be riding like you stole it. Hmmm, wonder if I can talk susan into letting me buy one again. Now that would be fun, riding with my old buddy , smitty. take care all.... f.a.
alvis
USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 07:55:47 (MDT)

Ray, I agree with Gale when he says what have you got to lose. They might be able to get to the bottom of what is bothering you, and that might just help you more than you know. I'm sure it's kind of scary, and you are the only one that can make the final decision. We'll be here for you no matter what happens Brother. It also looks like my luck here at the Yellow Box might have run out again. I support field engineers over the phone when they have problems with our production scanners. The powers that be decided that i and the 3 guys that do the same job with me are not adding enough value to warrant keeping us so they will have others in the field taking care of the calls that we would get. I will find out for sure on October 1st if i have to look for another job or not. My brother was having a lot of trouble breathing so he went to the doctor and they found out that his Hemoglobin count was down to 7. I guess it should be in the mid to upper 20's. So they gave him a couple of units of blood and he said he felt better. The doctor said that the Tumor must be spewing more blood than they thought. He is going to be operated on to remove the tumor October 7th. He will have to have Kemo after this. That's all i know about that right now. Hope everyone else is doing ok, and would you spammers find someone else's web site to clutter up. We're pretty sick of it..... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 06:09:19 (MDT)

J.W. Wilson, My Earthlink e-mail is having problems, because Bellsouth messed up some phone lines around the local area. But I`m going home to Ohio this week-end for the Ohio State/North Carolina State football game. I`m leaving Friday afternoon, so we can try again at some point. Got to go to work!!!!! See Ya
Fred Skaggs
USA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 04:31:51 (MDT)

THANKS FOR THE COMPLIMENTS ON THE WALKING STICKS IT'S A VERY ENJOYABLE HOBBY. I GUESS EVERYONE FORGOT ABOUT MY POST THAT I WAS GOING TO OHIO OVER THE LABOR DAY PERIOD AND STAYING A WEEK WITH MY SISTER AND GETTING SOME FLYING LESSONS IN. WELL IT RAINED 4 DAYS BEFORE I WAS ABLE TO FLY WAS STARTING TO THINK I WAS NOT GOING TO FLY AT ALL. I DID MANAGE TO GET IN 5HRS OF TRAINING AND LOOKS LIKE I'M GOING TO NEED QUITE A BIT MORE TRAINING BEFORE I HIT THE SKYS BY MYSELF BUT IT SURE WAS FUN,,,I CAN SEE MY NEW TOY NOW. DAVE P. I HOPE I CAN FIND YOUR ADDRESS AND I WILL SEND YOU A E-MAIL FROM MY DAUGHTERS PLACE,,,DON'T KNOW WHY BUT CAN'T SEEM TO GET MY PUTER TO WORK RIGHT,,,,IT MUST HAVE GOT LAID OFF,,,,,EVERYONE HAVE FUN AT KOKOMO I THOUGHT THAT WAS LABOR DAY FUNCTION EVERYONE HAVE A FUN TIME AND BE SAFE
jim oliver
pembroke, ga USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 23:31:59 (MDT)

Hi Flight, Judith I received the poster last friday. Thank you for it and how much do I owe you for shipping and handling charges. My e-mails are sent in Myrtle Wilson name so you may have not opened them. Eddie Mardis I have not heard from you since before the reunion and I have e-mailed you several times. Fred S I can meet you this saturday if you are availble. Clear J. W. Wilson
J.W. Wilson
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 18:00:07 (MDT)

DOES ANY ONE REMEMBER BULL DOG 745&691 THOSE WERE MY SHIPS IN 68&69 TOM MARR
TOM MARR <fishfla@gte.net>
largo , fl USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 17:52:50 (MDT)

Three ministers -- a Presbyterian, a Methodist, and a Southern Baptist and their wives, were all on a cruise together. A tidal wave came up, swamped the ship, and they all drowned. Next thing they knew, they were standing before St. Peter. First in line were the Presbyterian and his wife. St. Peter shook his head sadly and said, "I can't let you in. You were moral and upright, but you loved money too much. You loved it so much, you even married a woman named Penny." St.Peter waved and poof! Down the chute to the 'Other Place' they went. Next were the Methodist minister and his wife. "Sorry, can't let you in either," said Saint Peter. "You abstained from liquor and dancing and cards, but you loved food too much. You loved food so much, you even married a woman named Candy!" Sadly, St. Peter waved again, and whang! Down the chute went the Methodists. The Southern Baptist minister turned to his wife and whispered nervously, "It ain't looking good, Fanny."
Fred Skaggs
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 16:33:38 (MDT)

Ray..My advice .....go for it. What have you got to lose! Gently, you are so sweet.....why would anyone have a remark about that.....except for that "strangle hold you had on Jim" :o] Smiddy....I want see you pull into Indy on that Harley next year !!!! We'll have a 129th crowd waiting for you ! Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 16:15:07 (MDT)

Judith I don't know how anybody could sleep at Kokomo last year that fart woke everyone up. shuuuuu that stinks.HEHEHEHE I think it was Gale or maybe I won't mention her name. hehehehehehe Just kidding**************Ray if they gave the choice of doing it ornot I wouldn't. We might want to bc on this topic. If the penis enlargers can get here so can the Government. hehehhehee*******************Flight be careful out there and clear left
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 16:03:04 (MDT)

hello flight need lots of advice my vet center wants to hypnotize me not sure what to do he says its to bring me back,to vn all of this is driving me nuts what would u all do just seeking advice thans all ray
ray <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 15:26:40 (MDT)

Jim W. Please keep us posted on your health. I was a little worried after we danced at the re-union in Atlanta, because as much fun as it was, I knew you were very tired. Please know that it was one of the finest dances I've ever had:I danced with a man who had wings on his feet(no jokes you "other" guys), and a gentle hand to hold me with. It was completely my pleasure, and you are on my dance card for Indy(a couple of times). I'm glad you check the site often. We know you and many others are out there reading, and we hope that once in a while you get a laugh out of some of the comments posted here. Do any of our VA nurses on this site know of your illness so that you could post back and forth as a "support" group? I know you were a VA nurse, but others may not. Now they do:>))) You are a dear friend, I'm here for you, as are all who post here. Please take care, for us, Jim. Always there, Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 14:55:10 (MDT)

Jim Oliver... contact me by email. Thanks!
Dave Powers
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 14:24:56 (MDT)

Well, you are right, i havn't posted in some time & like someone else just said, i could come up with some lame excuses but don't have any. I have been under an extreme amount of stress as my physical health gets somewhat worse. I am now retired on medical disability. It took the help of a US Senator but it got done. I can now do a couple things about 2 hours at a time or so & then must spend some time healing up but at least i am still going, have had several friends die recently with the same type things i have going on. I can still ride my Harley a while at a time & will be able to make it to the Indy reunion still but unfortunately will not get to Kokomo due to other things. Never fear, i am still here until you get a posting from my wife. Hope Kokomo goes well & the weather is good, after being so dry with Forest fires all summer, it has been raining the last few days here & welcome. I know that you 129thers can drink in the rain. I still remember being up in the hootch area (Drunk) in the rain so hard you could barely see your hand in front of your face & if a person was to fall down in that red mud you could probably slide all the way to the big Hangar. Remember how the water would cascade down those old stone steps?? SOOO Fred Alvis & Co., if it gets muddy at Kokomo, just get drunk & think of it as old times. Put a tarp up over you & get a spades game going on a box. Guess i am kinda like a lot of folks, i check this site daily but am not saying a lot unless i have something to say. I saw a deal on TV the other night where a couple guys were in Ho Chi mihn city & in an alley someone was selling old dog tags for 11 cents each. Well , these two guys bout $180 worth , came back to the states & started returning them. It was the coolest thing. Some were posthumous but some were not. Anyhow, I thought it was a neat thing to do. Everyone stay well, I will go now & leave the site to the Drug companys, Penis enlargers , et al. Yours with respects, Smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@bresnan.net>
sheridan, Wy. USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 12:58:32 (MDT)

Hey, hey, hey, on that "mother hen" stuff, Mr. B! From experience, I know you guys (Fred A., you, and Ron Paye)tend to have "follow through" in-abilities and end up sleeping, almost standing up. Actually, Rick England and Ted B(Skyking) had the same problem last year at Kokomo. :>)) Glad to hear that Ron Paye, sir, has offered you his site for sleeping-you'll need his site because you won't be able to crawl anywhere as the night settles in after a long day of, well, mixing your beers. And Mr. Westwang-where are you-Fred's right, we haven't heard from you for a while. JW, any word on the poster? Ray goes to the VA today to find out if he has to take the PTSD test over(what a joke!). Tom S. thanks for the "Peace" website. It works! And Jim Oliver...thought you had a computer now!! We aren't hearing from you-don't be out there alone-we're here for you! Why don't you take some of your beautiful walking sticks to Kokomo and sell them to other Vietnam Veterans! I know you hate to part with them....but share your beautiful work! Actually, I bet the entire site membership needs one now after reading all of the "New" song titles posted by Ron and Fred-Geez! It's a wonder any of us can move! Christmas fund raising starting up next month-start saving! I'm looking for input and cash :>))) Back to work-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 08:13:05 (MDT)

Funny stuff Ron. Good hearing from you again. Ron, how about leaving the Miller Lite to me and you bring a few "Pink Ladies"....if ya know what I mean !? Alvis, that Pontiac sounds kinda like a woman that I used to know ! ;o) You better plan on staying Saturday nite....either in your car or bring a sleeping bag & sleep in a tent. Sounds like "mother hen"...ooops, I mean Gently is worried about where we will sleep. I just know that it won't be in a Motel!! Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 06:58:53 (MDT)

Pretty funny Ron and welcome back. Hey, were those songs on the beatels album " crabby road"? Just dont sing... I want to hold your beer,or I cant hold my beer.How about..papas got a brand new colostrum bag.uggh, enough of my humor..Hey Fred Scaggs...dont forget Americas largest employer... wall mart.They start you out (here in indianapolis) at 6.95 per hour.Lowes, which is like a home Depot, isnt much better. ( days to the big "k".As i live an hour away, I will drive back and forth each day..unless like last year..if i drank to many beers, i will sleep it off in the car.Thinks I may just go pay Mark a vist as well. No, my car runs fine , but still will not start till its cooled off.smile, one must plan ones trip carefully with that beast. Hey wESTWANG, you doing allright? Havent heard from you in some time.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 06:16:15 (MDT)

And on a lighter note for those who are feeling a little older and missing those great old tunes, there is good news! Some of our favorite artists have re-released their great hits with new lyrics to accommodate us, their aging audience. We might want to sing a few while sitting around the Campfire. This seems akin to elder abuse!!!!! Herman's Hermits - "Mrs. Brown, You've Got A Lovely Walker"## The Bee Gees - "How Can You Mend A Broken Hip"## The Temptations - "Papa's Got A Kidney Stone"## Nancy Sinatra - "These Boots Aren't Made For Bunions"## The Beatles - "I Get By With A Little Help From Depends"## Marvin Gaye - "I Heard It Through The Grape Nuts"## Procol Harem - "A Whiter Shade Of Hair"## Johnny Nash - "I Can't See Clearly Now"## Leo Sayer - "You Make Me Feel Like Napping"## ABBA - "Denture Queen"## Paul Simon - "Fifty Ways To Lose Your Liver"## Roberta Flack - "The First Time I Ever Forgot Your Face"## Commodores - "Once, Twice, Three Times To The Bathroom"## Rolling Stones - "You Can't Always Pee When You Want"## Bobby Darin - "Splish, Splash, I Was Havin' A Flash##
Ron Paye
Indy, USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 19:14:56 (MDT)

Hey Flight, Been a while since I have posted. Only have lame excuses so I will not even us any. Looking forward to Kokomo next weekend. I will be up Friday afternoon some time. Have a National POW/MIA Recognition ceremony at noon. After we tare down I will be on my way. I will be at Camp spot 34. It is along the north fence on the west side of the grounds. It was getting kind of crowded last year, but anyone who needs a spot will be welcome as long as we can find room. Three years ago the VVA at Kokomo had to come up with the cash to make the balloon payment on the property. They came up with a plan to rent out the camping spots for three years for a one time payment of $300. My neighbor and I went in on one spot and a few of the guy's in his Engineer unit got two more. They are all together. As I said all are welcome. I don't know how their are going to handle the spots next year or what the cost will be. We (the 129th) might want to see if we can get a few spots for ourselves. Stake a claim. I will check into it and let you know. If anyone is interested let me know. Looking forward to good times around the camp fire. And yes! I am bringing some real beer again this year. Maybe some "Black Douglas" from the Scottish Border or some "Young's Winter Warmer" from England. Maybe some Smoked Beer from Germany. If you all are nice I might even share a bottle or two. For any wussie's that don't know what a good beer tastes like, I might bring a can of Miller Light or some other limp dick drink like a Pink Lady or something. But, then again I kind of doubt it. Dont want to waist space in my cooler. Soooooo everybody, next week it is. Next Week...Good food, good drinks, good times around the fire. Might even be a tall tail or two. Be there or we will definitely be talking about you. Love and Brotherhood. Ron Paye Cobra32
Ron Paye
Indy, IN USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 19:09:12 (MDT)

WOOOOO....Alex, my friend, better not say to much now.....not against this admin. You could be exiled to "cyber-Siberia". Watch what you say Home boy!!!! There`s plenty of jobs....McDonalds....Burger King....Windy`s.....White Castle...... Good Jobs!!!!!! Every morning at 6:30A.M. you can go down to Home Depot and all kinds of good construction jobs will come along. Everyone is gone by 8:00 A.M. so somebodies workin!!!!! Now a person might have to start at the bottom at McDonald`s or Burger King, before you can get that promotion to cashier, because you have a PHD mathematician working as cashier....And he`s "buckin hard" for Asst. Manager. Hell it`s all arithmetic anyway!!!!!! As my grandpa use to say," Save your money boys and walk slow and drink alot of water".
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 17:08:25 (MDT)

Well Flight had a chance to drop in. All whom are heading to K for the week end have a safe trip. Hope to make the Sky Soldiers show in Tenn. the first week end in Oct. i had a great time at the St. Louis county air show over labor day. Thoses hueys have gotten my blood a boiling. Hope everyone out there is doing ok!!! Liz and I are still waiting on our house to be finished a few more weeks. Robbie hope your Brother and the rest of the family are doing ok!! and that goes to you also Ray. Judith glad to see you keeping everything going on the log. Just be to busy here lately with work. But, not complaining at least I got a job. As the goverment stated the economy was geting better because we had only 390,000 new unemployment claims last month. Something does't sound right!!! Gale and Alvis I hope the clouds that was troubling our transportation has left us!!! You all take care out there!! Alex
Alex
USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 13:15:34 (MDT)

Better living through chemicals, eh?
Dave Powers
USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 09:53:29 (MDT)

And I was going to bring Champagne :>((( Guess I'll have to drink it myself. Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 12:26:00 (MDT)

Alvis, you can have Rick's share of the beer.....I don't think I could drink "that" much !!! HeheehheheHeehe. ;o]
Gale
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 10:44:26 (MDT)

gewntly and joe....can i have your share of the beer? Gale is already mad at me for beating him, in asking Rick. place isnt going to be the same with out u guys.
alvis
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 10:36:15 (MDT)

You and Joe
Gale
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 07:55:53 (MDT)

Gently, Gonna miss you Joe !!
Gale
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 07:54:51 (MDT)

Fred and Gale-the site at Kokomo is always the same. You might check with Ron Paye about room for camping at his site. Afew more people are going this year, and I don't want you sleeping in your car or trucks for lack of room. The "Turkey " man is leaning toward cooking another bird on Saturday-I've asked him for ideas as to what people should bring and he's pretty vague(a kind and generous soul) so just bring snacks, or wait until you get there and ask him what he needs-then go into town for it. But do bring things to drink. Later my friends-J
Gently
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 07:53:23 (MDT)

J.W., I got my spamblocker set on high, because everytime I get on the 129th web-site, all that bullshit spam hits my INBOX e-mail. It`s almost in the same order as the web-site. I guess they just see my e-mail addresses and slam-dunk me. J.W.!!! I`ll check my spam and put you in the address book. Some times if your not in my "address book" spamblocker catches it.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 19:23:34 (MDT)

Hi Flight, Fred S I tried yo e-mail you but a blocked got it. J.W. Wilson
J.W. Wilson
USA - Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 18:37:30 (MDT)

Fred Skaggs, how ya doin' buddy? It doesn't surprise me..........the ones that deserved medals didn't always get them.......and some didn't deserve them and got them so easily! It's who ya know. I've seen "purple hearts" handed out for some goofy stuff.......if you are buddies with the right people. Don't get me wrong, probably about 80% of the recipients of the medal did deserve it, but, that other 20% takes in an awful lot of undeserving people.
Gale
USA - Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 18:35:34 (MDT)

Now let me get this straight......Britney Spears needs a penis enlargement to satisfy Madonna because Madonna took an overdose of viagra. That explains the bulge in her crotch and the wrinkled up old face......is that Propecia? I dunno!! What I don't understand is why Britney insists on lowering her standards to equal the "low-life" standards of Madonna !? At least Brit has looks going for her and Madonna never did ! Brits Mom & Dad must be awfully proud of themselves to pass their daughter off as trash just for $$$$$$$ (Brit said that her parents thought the Madonna kiss was cute.....gag me with a spoon). I can imagine what they have in store for their younger daughter.......they'll probably get twice as much money selling her as trash to our young people....maybe they can get her laid on stage!!! Give me a break. Just venting !! Gale
Gale
USA - Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 18:09:55 (MDT)

fred skaggs...good question. perhaps the medals went to the generals or their aids.
alvis
USA - Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 08:53:19 (MDT)

That's fine Alvis.........as long as your not wearing a red dress or anything. ;o] I'll find you. Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 19:09:27 (MDT)

AIR MEDALS!!!!!!! Last night I was talking on the phone to Bill Pecknold from California. Bill and his brother Jim Pecknold were in the 129th at the same time in 1970. Bill went back to the states after 7 months in Nam. Very strange situation, two brothers in the same unit at the same time. One brother had to come back to the states, so Bill being married, and a child on the way, was sent home. After Jim Pecknold deros back to the states, Bill was sent back to Nam in 72. Bill logged over a 1000 hours of flight time in his first 7 months with 129th. Bill and Jim both went into Cambodia with the 129th in April of 70. Bill also logged a year worth of flight hours in 72/73. Point being....Bill and Jim both have never recieved a Air Medal. Both had a MOS of 67N2F and just about all of the flight time in Cambodia was CA time. Cambodia was 10 and 12 hour days for the whole operation. How does that happen????
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 15:14:52 (MDT)

gale, I believe gently or Ron stated they try to get the same spot every year.If worse comes to pass, will see you by the stage when the music cranks up.Will be on the left side , facing the stage. Hope it doesnt come to having to do that, but its always good to have a plan B. See you there buddy, keep um cold.
alvis
USA - Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 15:12:07 (MDT)

Alvis, well brother....looks like it's you & me (and I presume Ron) representing the 129th at Kokomo this year. I'll be there Friday eve before dark. I wonder if we will be at the same spot? It will be good to see you & Susan again. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 08:51:08 (MDT)

I still plan on attending the event in Kokomo. You never know who might show upas a casual walkin. Not only do I look for 129th members, I look for 60th ahc Ghostriders as well. You guys know that (according to the history channel) we lost over 4,000 helicopters, over 2,200 pilots and over 2,700 crewmwmbers during the war? Usually the average wounded in 3 or 4 to every one kia. I bet that doesnt hold true for chopper crews.I also read something in the local paper that.." air medals werent given out for bravery". This statement is true, but for some reason it really pissed me off. Perhaps they werent given for bravery, but there wasnt one coward on board any ship I ever flew on , nor any of the ones my friends flew on. Hell, we were flying targets.I think if the person that wrote that would ever sit behind controls or behind a machinegun, hovering in a hot LZ, they might change their mind. it was in an article about medals given out during the vietnam war....dang, sorry folks...that was written in the last issue of the "American legion" magazine. Perhaps it just hit me wrong, but it laid on me as a low grade slight. Once again,Only we know . Be well my friends
alvis
USA - Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 07:45:19 (MDT)

Well Gale, Fred, and any of you planning on Kokomo. My heart is broken. I am not able to attend. Can you believe it?!! Gale and Fred, I'll get with you off-line. Damn the devil!! Dismayed-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Friday, September 05, 2003 at 14:35:04 (MDT)

Hello flight ,, HI Alvis And sue Iam not sure if I know your E mail address i be glad to e mail ya oh i know my spelling is bad i guess i should have payed more attion in school but back then i never thought i be needing it so much heck we had CB raidos all we dis was talk i be in indy for sure. i got to get ready tosee vet center consler soon gently i let u all know how it gose , i just hope i dont have to retest i never goy=t so fustrated and mixed up ever. but i be ok.. rob and rick how u doing i be in touch youall take care alvis my screen name is stilwating@aol.com i write u back be safe all a brother always Ray jeff thanks for your help i need all I can get feel like Iam losing it at times
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
street, md USA - Friday, September 05, 2003 at 09:20:49 (MDT)

Hi ya Ray. As you ask, I went and ask Susan about the waters. After a hearty laugh ( thank you for making her smile Ray) she replied no, its the same there as here. That myth has to be one of the oldest out there and most believed. So go on and have a laugh with your friends Ray, keep it going.You now know the truth. Hey Ray, Yes your spelling is bad, but heck, so is mine. I love reading your post as do alot of others. Randy... what a horror story..glad it has a happy ending. welcome back from the dead buddy. Hope your recovery is speedy and complete. Ray, send me an e mail, mine keep coming back when I try to send u one. whew hoooo....i have a day off. now, where did i put my pencil and those darn plans for a kids airplane rocker i want to build.
alvis
USA - Friday, September 05, 2003 at 07:38:50 (MDT)

Gently, Check your E-mail please. If you do not have one from me let me know!
jeff
USA - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 18:19:39 (MDT)

Hi flight, Judith, I have not received the poster , It will probably be here in a couple days. Last week my youngest daughter received a thank you card from her sister mailed in October of 2001. J.W.
J.W, Wilson
USA - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 17:25:29 (MDT)

Gently and Ray, I will be back on here tonite with a couple of answers. Have to go do something for my mom at the moment.
jeff
USA - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 16:50:00 (MDT)

HELLO FLIGHT HELLO TO ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS,, I DO BELIVE THE TOPIRAMATE IS WORKING FOR DON'T SKAKE MUCH , BUT THE ANXITY AND THE STRESS AND DEPRESS AND ANGER IS THERE WAS TOLD I HAVE TO LEARN TO DEAL WITH IT DOING OK. I CALLED THE MAN FROM THE VET CENTER HE TOLD ME NOT TO WORRIE WHAT MAN SAID FROM THE VA SAID SO I SEE HIM TOMORROW, IF I HAVE TO RE TEST I WILL ALVIS DON'T THINK I MAKE IT TO KOCOMO SAVING TO GO TO INDY HOPE TO MEET U THERE. WE WONT MISS THAT.JEFF I DO THINK THE TOPIARMATE IS WORKING ON THE SHAHES BUT NOT IN THE MIND IS IT SOPPSE TO, I KNOW THY ALL SAY I NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN I THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR HELP , AND GENTLY THANKS FOR HELPING. I LET U ALL KNOE HOW IT GOSE AT VET CENTER BE SAFE ALL AND THANKS FOR CARING LOVE YA ALL A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY OH THANLS FOR PUTTING UP WITH MY SPELLING AS U AL SEE I NEVER WON A SPELLING BEE CANT WAIT FOR INDY AGAIN THANKS FOR YOUR THE HELP I JUST HOPE I DONT HAVE TO RETEST OH ALVIS A DUM ?? BUT BEING A X PLUMBER CAN U ASK YOUR WIFE SINCE SHE VOMES FROM THE LAND DOWN UNCER DOSE THE WATER DRAIN ANTI CLOCK WISE NOT TRYING TO BE FUNNY SOME SY IT DONT SOME SAY IT DOSE OPPSIT WAY THANKS NO NOT CRAZY ;- WELL BEST GO BEFORE I SAY SOMETHING DUM UNLESS I ALREADY DID RAY
RAY <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET, MD USA - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 10:29:14 (MDT)

Jeff..thank you for offering to help Ray. Many of us first met him at the re-union in Atlanta, though we had all been communicating with him for quite awhile before that via email posts. He is having quite abit of trouble with his "shrink" at the VA, and the test he took for PTSD. As he said, it took him 3 hours with the time usually alloted being 1 1/2 hours. He was then told that his answers were wrong(?) and that he would have to re-take the test. He is fretting over taking it again, and failing. His shaking has stopped and his left arm is a little stronger. He has anger episodes, depression, and sleepless nights. When he does sleep he has nightmares-and he is unable to shake these nightmares. Ray and I, have become close friends, and communicate at least twice a day, starting with cyber coffee every morning. He would be sharing more of this himself, but he knows that the typing and spelling involved sometimes makes his posts hare to read and understand. So, I'm updating you and his other friends on what's going on. He would love communication and support from you-he'd be there in a heartbeat if you, or any of his brothers, needed him. Having said that, I close, happy to know you are there for your brothers, Jeff. With Kokomo on my mind-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 08:14:38 (MDT)

Hi ya Ray, keep on keeping on, brother. Ron payne, you going to make it to Kokomo? Susan says she will show up one day, but the rest I have to do alone ( sniker, sniker) ok, i say.shrug, guess I will have to drink her share of the beer.The things a man has to do.smile. Gently, thats a shame they booed people, it was for a great cause.Knuckle heads in every crowd, pardon the pun. Have a good one all, be safe and good tideings
alvis
USA - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 08:10:13 (MDT)

Ray, Since I can type faster than I can think I mispelled TOPAMAX and CARBAMAZAPINE. No big deal but did not want to be confusing.
jeff
USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 18:24:36 (MDT)

Ray, Don't know if Jim W. responded to your ?? about Topiramate (brand name Topomax) or not. If you want detailed info let me know. As you may or may not know I am an RN at VA on psych service. Basically the field has been having success with this fairly new drug(approved by FDA in 1996) for PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, bipolar etc. The "shakes" as you said would be helped as well in most cases. People who have not responded to something like carbanzapine or valproate have been being helped with Topiramate. I am so glad it has been working for you! I don't post much but have been following you and your VA trials an tribulations with intrest. Don't worry if test comes back inconclusive just keep after them and use the vet center for help. Let me know if you want more info or just want to hash this out and we can do so via e-mail. Take care! Jeff 70-71
jeff
lake norman, nc USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 17:36:29 (MDT)

HELLO ALL HI GALE HOW ARE YOU AND DEBBIE SORRY I NISSEDYOUR NAME YOU TAKE CARE BE SAFE RAY
RAY <STILWATING@AO;.COM>
STREET , MD USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 14:18:26 (MDT)

hey everyone. hope all are well. Keith 72-73
Ronald Keith Letson <onereb@bellsouth.net>
corinth, ms USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 14:08:22 (MDT)

Gently, I'll be on my best behavior...I won't have Kal & Rick there to get me into trouble !! Still kinda worried about your sister though. Hello Ray. Clear Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 11:56:57 (MDT)

HELLO FLIGHT... JUST SAYING HELLO TO LL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS. IAM DOING WELL IN PARTS. MY SHAKES STOPED, BUT IT SEEM THE NUT TEST THEY GAVE ME I DIDN'T DO WELL THE SHRINK KELPER SAID I TOOK TO LONG, IT WAS A HOUR AND HALF TEST TOOK ME 3 HOURS. ALMOST WALKED OUT A FEW TIMES GOT SO FUSTRATED. MOST OF THE ?? I DIDNT UNDERSTAND SOME I MISS READ. OTHERS I READ MORE INTO THE ?? SO HE SAIS IT MAY COME BACK AS INCLUSIVE. NOT SURE IF I CAN DO IT AGAIN. BI=UT I CALLED THE VET CENTER THE PEOPLE WHO GAVE THE TEST , HE SAID DONT WORRIE IF I HAVE TO DO OVER WE WILL TALK. BUT MADE ME A BUNDEL OF NERVES OH WELL. I DO FEEL GOOD ON OUT SIDE THOUGT. JUST LETING U KNOW OF STILL FULL OF STRESS , DEPRESSION ANIXITY AND AT TIME ANGER VA MAN SAID I HAVE TO LIVE WITH IT I ALWAYS HAVE IT NOW HOW ARE ALL U DOING NICE TALKING TOYOU ALEX AND MARK JIM W HOW ARE YOU DOING DO YOU KNOW ANY THING ABOUT A DRUG CALLED TOPIRAMATE WHAT EVER IT IT IS STOPED THE SHAKES ROP HOW YOU DOING, I CANT BELIVE HOW THE WEATHER HAS BEEN ALL OVER ALVIS I HOPE U GET CAR GOING OH FRED SKAGGS HOW U DOING HOPE I SPEL NAME RIGHT ANT TO ALL THE NAMES I MISSED TAKE CARE OPPS I SURELY CANT FORGET GENTLY HOW ARE YOU DOING , WELL I BEST GO BEFORE I END UP WITH FOOT IN MOUTH OH RICK YOU TAKE CARE I THIK THIS IS Y I JUST TRY TO SAY HI TO ALL DONT WANT TO LEAVE ANY ONE OUT SO MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS STAY WELL BE SAFE HOPE THIS CAME OUT OK, OH INSTEAD OF A SPAM CHECKER I LOVE TO SEE A SPELL CHECKER I BET I GET IT TO QUIT IN A WEEK ;-) JUST HAD TO SAY THAT TAKE CARE ALL RAY
RAY <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET, MD USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 11:44:18 (MDT)

Alvis! I hope you're not shaving off that ZZTop beard!!! And "Little Fred(Gale)" how's your's coming along? JW-did you get my poster yet? The HArley party: The Harley party was great-over 300,000 in town(as an estimate) from all over the world. A few fights, a few accidents(no one was killed but unfortunately,there were some serious head injuries). The biggest accident was the line-up for the last-big party on Sunday evening: Elton John was the main performer (?). Hard to figure. Tim Magraw, Kidd Rock, the Doobies, and Cheryl Crow(I think she was there) were the other guests. It appears that Harley wanted to reach out to everyone, so they diversified the entertainers-but some riders were not happy: they boo-ed Elton(actually left the front stage area), and boo-ed the host, an unprepared Dan Akyrod. The lines for food and drnks was long, as were the Port-a P0t lines. But most of the riders didn't really care and had a great time. It was very cool checking out the bikes and clothes-or lack there of. The town has settled down once again and traffic is finally back to normal, amen to that. There was a parade of 10,000 bikes on Saturday morning(it took two hours for them all to go past us), and tickets to be in it were $4,300 per person. Some riders won them, but others paid. All the money went to MD(opver 7 million so far), Ron Paye sir, didn't make it for some lame reason, so he owes me a lot of money. :>)) Gale, you're right, my sister is not only meaner, but she's also a Judo black belt...so be nice. Kokomo is coming up----It will be so wonderful to see you guys again, and to meet Susan. Anyone else want to join us-please do. Always here-Gently(no time to check over)
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 10:55:01 (MDT)

Alvis, Clinton is right on the Wabash, but, we live about a mile from it. Thanks for asking. Hope we have nice weather for Kokomo. You guys down south keep that black cloud down there!! Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 08:01:00 (MDT)

rain, rain, go away, come back some other day. Hey Gentle one, hows the harley gig going? Gale, you near the Walbash? Hope you have your boots on as well if you are. Flood warning here for every single river in the state. Its ok I guess, rather have it now than like last years reunion. Rained like crazy in Kokomo and had tornadoes here in indy.Robby and mark....hows the family members doing? Jim Westwang.... hows your ticker? Arghhhh.....Lowes has gone non- smoking, cant even smoke on the property( employees}. Anyone answer the history channel's request for reunions ? I checked it out, got a response, dont think i could do it.That stuff is to private and personel. It would be great to finally meet some of my kia,s family. I have tried for 30 years without luck. Still,I think the emotional cost would be to high.shrug, what do i know,that deep dark place within us is still alittle raw in me.as pink Floyd says, "another brick in the wall". Be well my friends, se u in Kokomo in 2 weeks. RRK
alvis
USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 07:52:05 (MDT)

Schmitty(Darwin), What's the latest on the Post Office flags??? Hope you guys are doing ok up there. J.W., you're welcome brother & thank you. Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 06:54:20 (MDT)

Just checkin whats been posted. I was in Montana for a week. I drove my grandpa up there for his tank reunion. Its the 757th Tank Battalion. It is neat to see all those guys together. My grandpa was a sgt. and was hurt twice over there. Served in Africa and Italy. So very proud of him and what he did. He is getting pretty sick and senile at times so it won't be that long I think till I move in to help take care of him and my grandma. I hope you are all doing well, the spam is pretty ridiculous and very annoying!
Melody Pershall <Melody1181@yahoo.com>
Amarillo, TX USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 20:00:24 (MDT)

Hi flight, Gale , I received the helicopter today, thanks J.W.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 18:51:42 (MDT)

Alvis, Actually..."The Five Man Electrical Band". Hey, you might have to yell at me at Kokomo,so, I'll know who you are. Sounds like Susan's got you all "duded" up! ;o] Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 15:27:57 (MDT)

yep. I will be there. Susan got ahold of my beard using sissors,so its not to long anymore.Damn near looked like "Edward Sissors hand" when she went to chopping. Was that song by the "cowsills"?
alvis
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 14:55:30 (MDT)

Alex, sounds like you had a great time out there. Sorry 'bout that black cloud! Alvis, ole Mother Nature didn't know when to turn that spout to "off" did she? Man...I haven't seen that much rain since the monsoons in Nam. Are you still planning to be at Kokomo? You better be there! I guess Gently's younger sister is gonna be there and I hear that she is even "meaner" than her. Rainer, you & Dee gonna make it up? We're gonna miss Ted, Rick & Kal. I'll try to take more pictures this time for all. J.W., let me know when you get that Huey that I sent......got your check today. Thanks buddy. Ray, don't be too silent.......we tend to worry about you. Hope everthing's fine. Later, Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 13:53:35 (MDT)

Spams, spams....everywhere a spam. Breakin' up the website...blowin' my mind. Grow this, please use this......can't you read the spams!! :o]
Gale <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 09:35:08 (MDT)

9 inches of rain in the past 24 hours. threating skies continue. another 1 1/2 inches forcast for today. River rising 1/3 foot per hour, will top out around midnight.Suppose to equal flood of "64". they had a fellow on tv this morning trying to cross a water covered road, was swept away and drowned.People, dont bet your life that u can croos a wet road. I am fortunate that i just had a few inches of water in my basement. U.S. nationals been cancelled till next weekend. Be safe all. Alex.... u lucky dog, whish i was there.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 09:28:54 (MDT)

Flight: Well hope everyone had a safe Labor Day weekend. Fred and Gale you sent the cloud south. my alternator went out thursday afternoon. Of coarse it's been on there for almost 10 years. Left, friday morning following Charlie Rains for the St.Lewis area air show. Got ponded by that cloud of heavy rain for most of the late afternoon. Saturday we had our flying ceiling. Flew left crewchief well finally!!! It was a great flight and brought back some memories along with a few tears. And ended up working the flight line all afternoon loading and unloading everyone whom rode Saturday. Had a total of 80 flights. Was give out by the last few flights. But, enjoyed the sounds of the engine winding and the smell of the fuel. It as like a day back 37 years ago when we spent all our time in the air and on the flight line. Do to the rains only 4 flights got up on Sunday, the rest canceled. I will get a listing of the air shows and post them at a later time. We did handed out a few applications for the VHCMA to some of the Brothers whom were attrated to the hueys. The website is www.armyav.org Army Aviation Heritage Foundation.
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Collierville, Tn. USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 08:38:07 (MDT)

Dear Webmaster-please get rid of all this SPAM and the person who likes to rattle on and on about his/her political stance. My friend and fellow 129er, Ted Bruskier(Mr. "Skyking") and I differ radically on political issues, but we do it off the web site(and with mutual respect). I suggest "'The Mouth" do the same..if he/she can get anyone interested in a one-on-one because no one reads the wordy ramblings. As Mark would say "'nuff said." Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 08:23:55 (MDT)

What a difference a couple of days offline makes... So far this morning my hair has grown back, my penis has been enlarged, and I'm "regular" again... not to mention restored eyesight and lower cholestrol! It's a good thing these spammers are with us... I feel so much better (heh, heh, heh)! Hope everyone had a safe and happy Labor Day weekend! Fred, good to see you back, amigo. Likewise, good to see you checking in, Bruno! Fred A... I remember getting a "refurbished" alternator at Checker Auto one winter evening. I put it on and still no juice... looked a little closer inside and saw rust and dirt caked inside... took it back for a refund.
Dave Powers
USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 07:34:08 (MDT)

seems idiots never go away nor stop when asked to
alvis
USA - Monday, September 01, 2003 at 15:05:05 (MDT)

Warriors For Peace........ If you want to read everything The Nation has ever published on antiwar activism, click here for information on how to acquire individual access to The Nation Digital Archive. here have always been veterans for peace. War makes veterans warriors for peace." With those words, David Cline, wounded and decorated in Vietnam, and national president of Veterans For Peace (VFP), opened the organization's eighteenth annual convention, on August 8, in San Francisco. Hundreds of veterans who'd served from World War II through the Persian Gulf War gathered here from every corner of the country for two full days of workshops, plenaries and informal conversations, focused largely on ways to express and amplify opposition to the current war with Iraq and to the new patterns of domestic repression that mark the past two years. One featured speaker, Congressman and presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich, mapped the vets' progressive agenda onto the mainstream of electoral politics before the packed convention. The audience generally took heart that one candidate for the presidential nomination of the Democratic Party would articulate views antagonistic to the broad strokes of the Administration's foreign and domestic policies during the approaching run of primaries. Breakout sessions, a k a workshops, occupied the first day of the convention. Best title goes to a gay and lesbian vet contingent: "We Used to Shower Together." Point taken. At another featured workshop, a new VFP project--Bring Them Home Now (BTHN)--was launched with hopes to stir uncomfortable memories among Pentagon and White House operatives of the "hollow army" brought about by widespread resistance and disaffection within the military during the Vietnam era. Bring Them Home Now is a coalition of military-family and veterans groups, including Nancy Lessin and Charlie Richardson of Military Families Speak Out, whose Marine Corps son, Joe, just returned from Iraq, and Stan Goff, an organizer from the Ft. Bragg area around Fayetteville, North Carolina, a retired Green Beret Master Sergeant, whose son, Jessie, just left for Iraq with the 82nd Airborne. The coalition, which also includes the Central Committee of Conscientious Objectors of GI Hotline, Citizen Soldier and Vietnam Veterans Against the War, intends to mobilize the anti-Iraq War sentiment that is growing rapidly among military families and GIs in order to help convince the American public to pull the plug on Bush's wars. Veterans For Peace, which has doubled its paying membership to 3,100 veterans--all activists--in a year, "is aligning itself with many like-minded organizations," Korean War vet Woody Powell, the organization's national administrator, told delegates in San Francisco. United For Peace and Justice, for one, was quick to endorse the BTHN campaign, and veterans and family members are expected to play highly visible roles in the mass demonstration planned for October 25 in Washington. Like-minded legislators too. Members of the Congressional Black Caucus, planning their fall assault on the Bush agenda, have already asked BTHN and VFP to locate military families and Iraq War veterans who are willing to provide testimony before an ad hoc Congressional panel, reminiscent of the Dellums Hearings on War Crimes in Vietnam in 1971. Prior to that, however, BTHN will troop military families and their message to bring the troops home directly to Senate and House members at the district level in twenty states before the end of the summer recess in early September. A press conference to announce the Bring Them Home Now campaign took place in Washington on August 13, and, on the following day, in Fayetteville. The press events, short of capturing headline coverage, were still broadly reported throughout the print, Internet and electronic media. Response to a reporter's question about BTHN during the Pentagon briefing on C-SPAN the evening of August 13 was cautious. "These people," referring to the BTHN families and organizers, "are entitled to their views," said the DOD spokesperson, quickly recasting the issue of troop and family member discontent as a technical problem, a question of resolving the "predictability of rotation." Will discontent in the ranks and among family members diminish, if combatants know before deploying to Iraq the duration of their tour of duty there? Or will the "unpredictable" nature and length of this war ultimately lead to a kind of malaise in the military that was so costly to troop morale and discipline during Vietnam? It depends on how much Iraq will ultimately become like Vietnam, and on the peace movement's capacity to counter a truly unpredictable element: the fear factor around national security, so expertly manipulated thus far by the Bush team to bolster public support for the war.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, xxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx - Monday, September 01, 2003 at 12:19:15 (MDT)

The notice I put on the other day I left off that it is National World War 2 Memorial. The Dedication is suppose to be May 29, 2004 in Washington DC.
Ernie Gschwender <ernieg3@hotmail.com>
Lincoln Park, MI USA - Monday, September 01, 2003 at 09:40:01 (MDT)