"He has the right to criticize who has the heart to help."
Abraham Lincoln
ICQ & Potpourri Mail - 2008
Informal or Partial Messages
Can anyone confirm that this is A/1C BOBBY G. PETERSON, AF14544550, who served with the 482nd circa 1963-64? Obituary lists him only as "US Veteran." Corp and age match. Born Georgia, but moved to Florida as young adult.
Dec. 23, 2008
From: Webmaster
Subject: Email Forwards
I have requested that humorous items NOT be "forwarded" to me...I delete them out of hand since I don't miss much on the web as a rule and have enough mailbox clutter. BELOW is the one exception that proves the rule and was received today from a 482nd Sgt who shall remain anonymous. So dammit...MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
"Back in 1990, the Government seized the Mustang Ranch brothel in Nevada for tax evasion and, as required by law, tried to run it. They failed and it closed.
"Now, we are trusting the economy of our country and 700 Billion Dollars to a pack of nit-wits who couldn't make money running a whore house and selling booze.
"Now if that doesn't make you nervous, what does?"
Dec. 18, 2008
From: Ernie Willie
I had Lab. work on the 6th of November and on the 7th my right arm went limp, hurt like hell, and lost all its color. They had punctured an artery and the arm developed a blood clot. I'm told that if I had not called 911 and got in for emergency surgery I would have lost the arm.
They kept me in the hospital for four days checking out my heart problems, wanting to do a heart catherization --- but with only one kidney, the dye could destroy what I have left. The bill from the hospital was 16 thousand for about ninety six hours, have not seen the surgeons paper work yet. I will sure pay attention to them when they draw blood the next time.
Thats enough of my life for now, hope Millie and I both live long enough for me to tell you about the thirty years that I enjoyed in the Air Force, including the twenty seven months with the 482nd.
Ernie
Dec. 7, 2008
From: James (Jim) E. Carl
Subject: Response to contact letter.
I was assigned to the 482 F.I.S. from March 1964 until September 1965. I worked in the Egress Shop. As of this writing, I have gathered some of my orders and pictures that might contribute to your website. I will make them available to you ASAP.
When I received your inquiry letter, I could not have been more pleased, except if it had been from the Reader’s Digest Sweepstakes, declaring me the winner of the top prize.
The day the letter arrived, I was able to locate, and make contact with, one of my roommates from the 482 F.I.S. I had not seen or spoken to James E. Sippel since January of 1965. I see a lot of names of others on your website, who I am going to try to contact.
I would welcome any correspondence or calls from anyone who would care to trade old war stories. I want to thank you for your time and effort in maintaining your website and contacting us.
My phone & cell numbers are: (contact me for those...GCW).
James (Jim) E. Carl, 7337 SW 26 Court, Davie, Florida 33314-1101 (near Fort Lauderdale)
Captain Macey J. Giannini (Ret LtCol)
April 29, 1931 - Sept 13, 2008
Nov. 18, 2008
Subject: Forwarded email from Harold Absher
Reference: Charles Lloyd Skipper & Becky
Just wanted you to know that Lloyd is very ill and is in the VA hospital. He has a collapsed lung and is unable to swallow. He cannot speak now and is just coming around to look at you.
Please keep him in your Prayers.
Becky
Nov. 13, 2008
Subject: An interesting first-person history has been discovered written by T/Sgt Gilbert Brook (flight simulator circa 1958-1960) from birth thru WWII. Its linked to his In Memorium listing... and here.
Presently, I don't remember Gil, as the flight simulator building was off-limits. BUT my first awareness of Aruba happened in this time period so suspect I have forgotten a lot. Most of the early pilots should remember him. I am fascinated by the account above because we have been bombarded with the American internment of the west coast Japanese as being unique and shameful, while early WWII Aruba history rather clearly implies that internment was second nature at this point in time irregardless of nationality or country. GCW
Nov. 7, 2008
From: Bob Quinn
Subject: "Last man standing"
I probably wasn't the very last man to leave the 482nd at SJAFB, but I had to be one of the last.
As circumstances would have it, I was asked, I think, by CWO Macon to remain as the barracks CQ on the weekends until everyone left the barracks. I reported in at 7 p.m. on Fridays and was relieved at 7 a.m. on Mondays. Being single and no hurry to go anywhere, I was a logical choice for the duty. People with school age children and those with earlier reporting times were given priority for leaving the base first. This also gave me all week off which saved valuable leave time, as I lived only 150 miles away. If I recall correctly, this duty lasted for 4 or 5 weeks. I don't remember specific dates, but seems like August and September '65. I would have to find some old shipping orders for more accurate dates.
This may be a start for your "Last man standing" research. Good luck.
Bob Quinn
Nov. 5, 2008
From: Bobbie E. Guillory
I have some pictures and orders from 1956-1960 that I will try to find again...I had them in hand when Katarina hit New Orleans and I have been trying to get my home back into shape ever since. I was doing good until February this year when I had a stroke. I was improving with that when we had another storm, Gustav, hit. No damage but no power for a week.
I would like for you to send me the web-site URL so I can load it in my favorites and be able to visit the site again.
Bobbie
Nov. 2, 2008
From: George Willick
Subject: Last Man Standing at the 482nd
Research can be very slow and sometimes very frustrating...for example, I only learned last night that our last commander, Major Auty O. Blanton, was a German POW for a year...downed in a bomber in July of '44. There is an image, that I think is him, stuck in my mind, sent as a xerox by Richard Fairlamb, in very late 1965. But no positive ID. I have not been able to locate Major Blanton's grave...but the odds for Arlington just went up. Charlotte, NC, was his home. Anyway...
It occurs to me that we have received almost no information from the 482nd's deactivation period. WHO was the "last man standing?" Who stood at his car and looked around to see if he had forgotten anything, and had done everything? Who typed the last set of orders...what were they? Etc.
I'd like to know...last dot and all that. But its a subjective thing really. Whenever we each left and in whatever frame of mind we had at the time...we each took our pride with us, even if unrealized at the time. And each of us left behind a smidgen of honor, which accumulated and still remains there...its the thing ghosts are made of. Some of the names and events of good men and airmen are still missing. And the candle burns low.
George C.
October 5, 2008
From: Tom Sutton
Subject: 2008 Reunion article from SJAFB Paper
I still have the 95 papers that Carol and I got from the base that had the last reunion article by the Goldsboro News Argus. I have not had a single request from anyone for copies from the website entry made some time ago.
All I ask is that each person send me two stamps to cover mailing costs. It would be a shame to throw them away and then later someone wanted a copy.
Tom Sutton, 251 Mann Lane, Goldsboro, NC 27530
September 25, 2008
From: Richard H. Miller
Subject: Glenn Mitchell
I just received this message from Lee Mitchell.
Glenn Curtis Mitchell
Hi guys...sorry to notify you this way, but I just can't talk to everyone. I hope you understand. Glenn died at 12:30 pm, Wednesday September 24th. He fought to the end. All three sons and two daughters-in-law were with me. Even with all the morphine he was on, he was struggling for every breath. He had COPD but the asbestosis made it impossible for him to get any better. I am so very, very sad but I can only take comfort that he is in a better place and not suffering.
Thank you for caring and sending prayers our way. Lee
September 5, 2008
From: George Willick
I try NOT to respond to online mail ... but can't resist a little timely USAF coincidence that re-inforces Ernie's comment, "It is a small Air Force."
My last daughters were twins. Two of their high school sweethearts were boys named Jeremy Conrad and Christopher Bell. Jeremy went his way and Chris became a son-in-law. This week, in Afghanistan, F-15 Crew Chief S/Sgt Chris Bell's squadron relieved a squadron that contained another F-15 Crew Chief ... Jeremy Conrad. Go figure.
GCW, 514 East St, Madison, IN 47250.
Aug 27, 2008
From: Ernie Willie
I recently mentioned my grandson was a Major in the Air Force ... Now the rest of the story.
I wasn't on the William Tell team in 1958 but they sent me down in case I could help getting things done by the local Maintenance Squadron. I spent every day laying out on the flight line on the canopy covers. No one called for any help. When Col. Thomas called the team together and told them what a great job they did, he added "...and I want to thank Sgt Willie for coming down and spending his vacation with us."
The interesting part of this is that was 50 years ago and today my grandson is the CO of that Maintenance Squadron. It is a small Air Force.
Ernie L. Willie, 3000 Aston Gardens Dr., #204, Venice, FL 34292
August 27, 2008
From: Richard H. Miller
Subject: Glenn Mitchell
This is part of a note I received from Lee Mitchell, wife of Glenn Mitchell.
"Hi everyone ... Glenn went to the hospital by ambulance, this morning. His oxygen level plummeted, even with his oxygen on 3. I was going to take him but he was so weak and actually suffocating, that I called 911. After 4 hours of treatment in the ER, he was admitted. When I left tonight they were still trying to rule out a heart attack. As long as he's perfectly still with oxygen on 4 he does pretty well. I'll let you know more when I find out something else.
Put him on your prayer lists, please." Lee
Glenn arrived at the 482FIS in early 1965 and was assigned to the radar shop. He went to RGAFB upon deactivation. After leaving the AF he became a firefighter in Virginia, and rose to the rank of Captain. While fighting a fire he inhaled smoke and asbestos and has never recovered.
Richard H. Miller
[Sept 1, 2008. Richard reports that Glenn is home and doing better.]
August 2, 2008
From: Roger Carlson
Subject: 482nd FIS
You probably don't have the slightest idea who I am, but I was a member of the 482nd from June 1963 until deactivation in 1965. I was in radar and received orders for "Dickie-Goober" and the 328th A&E squadron when we deactivated. While at Seymour I was an A/2C, but made A/1C in February of 1966 while at Richards-Gabaur.
I loved going TDY to Key West and was tickled to death when the 328th took over the alert duties from the 482nd at Key West so I continued to go back and forth down there.
I got out in August 1966 and went back to Goldsboro with my wife who was from Dudley. We lived there until 1983 when I went into the ministry. I am now serving as a volunteer missionary for the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina and the Pennsylvania Baptist Convention.
Presently we are in Pennsylvania until October of this year when we will return to North Carolina for the winter. While I am there I will try to look for some old orders and send them to you. E-mail me your mailing address and I will see if I can help you! God bless your efforts. It sure brings back some mighty good memories.
Roger A. Carlson, AF12653974, 482nd Radar, Seymour-Johnson AFB, NC
July 31, 2008
From: Ernie Willie
Subject: 482nd Special Orders
I JUST RAN ACROSS A COPY OF SO# 91, DATED 25 MARCH 1959. IT COVERS TDY FOR FOUR AIRMEN AND TWO OFFICERS PLUS A PCS FOR SSGT RALPH J. HALL.
If you don't have a copy I will mail one to you. At 82 years young I still can't attach files or do anything real fancy. It would also take me a while to locate your address so send that if you can use this order. I sure enjoy reviewing the 482nd Web Page. Thanks for all your hard work.
Ernie L. Willie, CMGT. Retired USAF (1972)
Grandfather of Aaron Michael Rigdon, Major USAF (2008)
Information from Richard Fairlamb
July 12, 2008
ED. NOTE: Col. Richard Fairlamb attended the last reunion and has since been working the phones in an attempt to upgrade contact information with the remaining 482nd officers . . . in the hope that officer attendance for the next reunion can be increased proportionately. Which is something we'd all like to see.
Officers, like enlisted, tend NOT to send the 482nd web page new email addresses. So we lose touch with about 15 people a year on average. Col. Fairlamb has made contact with two of those and updated their data: Rocco MacAllister and David Bigelow.
Additionally, Richard has acquired various bits of personal information which I do not feel should be posted here except by the member . . . but also a few things that are of harmless general interest: 1) Roger Foote is alive and well and somehow able to live without a computer (shame) on the outskirts of Gainesville, FL . . . he practiced law in Tallahassee for many years before returning to his home area. 2) David "Dave" L. Bigelow lives in Hawaii, flying commercially in the islands, and ultralights/sailplanes for a hobby (recently setting the Hawaiian altitude record for gliders/sailplanes at over 32, 000 feet).
I "detest" using telephones, mainly because I become so involved in the conversation that I can't remember a damn thing after I hang up. So having someone like Col. Fairlamb (a busy man) around to help fill in where I'm inadequate is a blessing and for whose efforts I'm very grateful, as we all should be. For those of us who were at the 482nd before the first planes arrived, its been over a half-century. No wonder we're "mushing out," even with a little help from our friends.
GCW
June 27, 2008
From: Webmaster
Subject: Thomas N. Mack (& his son, Kenneth N. Mack)
Here's a story ... I have a long list of possible 482nd deceased that can't be confirmed one way or the other. Thomas N. Mack, AF13527162, [by Feb '64 - to S/Sgt on Oct 1, '64] has been on that list almost since the beginning. AF13 = (PA,VA, MD) which matched a "THOMAS N MACK; 26 Oct 1935 - 14 Jun 1990; 177-28-8673 PA." Only two others showed in the SS database, one too young and one ARMY. Likely, maybe ... but another one, same age, turned up in Fort Worth, TX ... no address, no phone.
So there it rested across the years until tonight, when I decided to rerun the data again. A search on "Thomas N. Mack" turned up a new reference ... an obituary for a Kenneth N. Mack of Fort Worth. I include that in its entirety below: Dallas Morning News on 5/12/2007.
MACK,, KENNETH NATHANIEL 42, lost his life Saturday, May 5, 2007, while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Funeral: 11 a.m. Monday at Great Commission Baptist Church. Burial: 3 p.m. Monday with full military honors at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. Kenneth was born Dec. 18, 1964, in Goldsboro, N.C. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas N. Mack in 1990. Survivors: Wife, Peggy V. Mack; daughter, Shquaydra S. Mack; son, Nathaniel E. Mack and his mother, Dawn Dorman; mother, Mahalia S. Mack; brothers, Robert Mack and Timothy Mack and his wife, Dewinlyn; and a host of nieces, nephews and other friends and relatives. Greenwood Funeral Home 3100 White Settlement Rd., Fort Worth, Texas 76107 - 817-336-0584
Military Marker:
MACK, KENNETH N.; 12/18/1964 - 05/05/2007; MSGT, US MARINE CORPS, IRAQ
DALLAS - FT. WORTH NATIONAL CEM., 2000 MOUNTAIN CREEK PKWY, DALLAS, TX: SEC 26 SITE 528A
June 23, 2008
From: Tom Sutton
Subject: 2008 reunion papers
Carol and I have accumulated about 95 copies of the 482nd 2008 Reunion article that was published in the SJAFB paper. There are no pictures with it. I will mail a copy, on a first come basis, to anyone who might want one. Just send me 2 stamps to cover the cost of the mailing and the manilla envelope.
Tom Sutton, 251 Mann Lane, Goldsboro, NC 27530
June 20, 2008
From: Ken Gero
Subject: Richard T. Sims
I just did a zabasearch on Dick and found one born in 1933. I called and got his son. That is our squadron mate and he did pass away recently of pancreatic cancer.
Regards ... Ken Gero
Captain Richard T. Sims
Aug 20, 1933 - June 5, 2008
Lt/Captain William C. Pyle
Dec 5, 1932 - April 13, 2008
June 2, 2008
From: Art Schefler, Major USAF Ret
Subject: 482 FIS
I came across your web page and saw S/Sgt Clarence H. W. Sharpe listed. Before I went to Aviation Cadets in 1960, we were stationed together at Osan, Korea, in a Matador Sq. Do you know his whereabouts?
Art Schefler, Shreveport. LA
[Ed. Note: I spent the morning (June 3) working on this. Unfortunately, Sgt. Sharpe was deceased in 1981 in Wilson County, NC. Buried there in Cedar Grove Cemetery at Elm City. Part of the delay in discovering this was that I had made a data entry error and copied the wrong service number ... which focused my earlier search in the wrong part of the country. Apologies to all for my blown research opportunity while in NC. GCW]
June 1, 2008
From: Jesse E. Worley, II
Subject: 482nd Web site
I am S/Sgt Jesse Worley's son. My niece informed me that the 482nd had a web site. So it was with great pleasure that I looked it up. Thank you for including his obituary and information.
I read today's feature in the News Argus about this year's reunion. I know that Daddy looked forward to them each year. I personally recall the early reunions quite fondly. At times, I even felt a bit like the mascot, since I was so young at the time. I still remember many of the stories quite vividly. Some of them have come in quite handy when I was in graduate school and in my classes. (Ok there were a few I couldn't use, but the nuclear bomb in Saulston and Thomas flying the plane off the highway are a couple of the favorites.)
Thank you again ... Jesse Jr.
May 2, 2008
From: Curtis Ray Nord Jr.
Subject: My Dad
My wife was searching the internet today and somehow came across a photo of my Daddy taken by you in 1957 at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. I followed the link on that page to your main site and began to view every link. Very interesting to say the least.
My Daddy and Mom are still doing well. It was rather funny to read your comment about my Daddy where you said, "He was always hard." Its funny because when he worked with the North Carolina prison system he was known as "Rock." He's not quite as hard as he once was, but I still will not try him.
Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for your time and energy to compose such a great site. I myself was in the Marine Corps 1979-89 and now as my Daddy did work for the prisons. God bless...
Curtis R. Nord Jr., Correctional Captain, Goldsboro, N.C.
May 2, 2008
From: Pete Petersen
Subject: TF-56-2237
I just received this Press Release, and thought it might be of interest to you. I will travel over to Mecham Field when I get a chance and get some pictures of it if you are interested.
Pete
April 20, 2008
From: George C. Flaherty
Subject: John L. Hawkins
Can not do too much for you on John Hawkins. We were in pilot training class 61-A and based at Bartow Air Base, FL, from July 1959 until Jan 1960. I do not remember where he was assigned from there. We were aviation cadets and both received a regular commission for being distinguished graduates from pilot training. Perhaps he decided to stay on active duty when he was offered regular status. I have always remembered him as being a guard pilot trainee. And I want to say he was from TN, but can not be sure. I recall we called him "Tank".
I do not have anything on Dick Brooks other than he was an instructor pilot and he gave me my simulator training down at Jacksonville when I was checking out in the 102.
I'm in touch with Wiley Allgood, Les Conwell, Barry Doucett. and Ed Schwartz ... we have been in touch on and off since I left the squadron in 1962.
Regards ... George
April 16, 2008
From: Thomas D. Wark
Subject: 482nd FIS
After basic training in February 1962, I was directly assigned to the 482nd FIS Air Police unit, in March or April 1962 as an A3C. A short time later, all the 482nd Air Police were transferred to the Host 4th Tactical Fighter Wing, 4th APRON at Seymour Johnson, AFB, and I was promptly promoted to A2C. About May or June of 1965, I crossed trained to an Air Crew position at Pope AFB as a load-master on C-130E & C-130H Aircraft, and logged over 800 Flight Hours. I separated from the Air Force on January 22, 1966, as an A1C.
My goal was to only stay in the military those 4 years and I went on to a flying career with TWA, (Trans World Air Lines) and retired in 1998 from a family business and from flying. I now reside in Tavares, FL, on the Harris chain of lakes.
I've included some of the data you asked for ... I have most, if not all, of my Flight/Mission orders, However, I'm not sure about any others.
Tom Wark
April 13, 2008
From: Robert L. Baker (Colonel, ret)
I have spent nearly the entire weekend looking at the 482nd website. I am truly amazed at the amount of detail you have amassed and the accuracy of it all. So many wonderful memories. The 482nd was such a continuous collection of fantastic people.
Of course, it's always sad when I see names of really good friends like Pete O'Neill and "Stoney" Stonestreet, and others on the "deceased list". They were really great guys and a lot of fun to work with.
I am sending you some copies of orders, pictures, and other stuff ... and in case the pictures don't work, I am also sending them as email attachments.
[ED NOTE: see Memories.
Bob Baker
April 7, 2008
From: Robert L. Baker (Colonel, ret)
I flew deuces with the 482nd in 1962 through 1964. That included Seymour-Johnson, Miami International, Homestead AFB, and Key West.
I tried your website but couldn't find it. Give me the address and I will try again.
Bob Baker
April 7, 2008
Subject: 482nd Photos
From: Bryan Hart
I recently ran across these three 8x10 pics in an "old" album. I have no idea how they came into my possession, but I have had them for more than 43 years. Don't know who the dignitaries are in the photos. I'm sure someone will recognize them.
[ED NOTE: Still working but here's a
link to one.]
Hope these add some value to your great site.
Bryan Hart, CMSgt (ret)
Mar 29, 2008
Subject: Jump Myers
From: William Piper
George: If you knew Jump, he never wore anything but low quarter shoes. He would not wear the issued boots while flying. Also, he jumped out of a P-38 in the Pacific in WW II as well as the deuce he jumped out of at Seymour. I flew with him quite a bit and knew that he didn't like the boots. I think that he was wearing low quarters in Viet Nam when he was rescued by Fisher and he was more worried about what the general would say when he got back and found out he was wearing low quarters than anything else.
Here is a link to the Major Bernard F. Fisher, USAF, Medal of Honor Mission webpage, which has several items of interest, including a tape (Real Audio) of the rescue, The tape is hard to follow but they also have a transcription.
Bill
[Bill: I mentioned this event to Lee Ruggels last night, and it may have occurred after you left the 482nd ... "I sure remember him always flying in low quarter shoes. Once when the pressure was on, he wore boots to the plane and then changed to low quarter ... sacking the boots and vice versa on landing." I remember a medium brown pair and an oxblood tinted pair, high grade leather, very light weight. The type most men liked to dance in. So Capt. Myers left OPs in boots and returned in boots and discipline was served but avoided. It might have been a good luck thing, and if so ... it sure as hell worked ... even though he may have had a couple landings in his socks. GCW]
Mar 28, 2008
Subject: Jump Myers
From: Lee Ruggels
I was watching TV when the story of Myers' rescue was reported and it got my immediate attention as I told my wife, "Hey, I know that guy well." Reminded me of the time Jump had to eject while on approach at Seymour Johnson. One of my many additional duties in the 482nd was Information Services Officer so I released the pilot's name (Dafford W. Myers) and a version of the incident. I didn't include the nickname as I thought it a bit odd to report that Jump jumped. Jump told me later that if I ever had to use his name again for any purpose whatsoever, it WAS "D. W. Myers" and NOT "Dafford W." He did agree that it was okay with him that I had not added the Jump jumped tag. (Came to him somehow from an early job as a soda jerk.)
LR
Mar 28, 2008
From: James Cunningham
Thought sure you would go this year since Tom is promising it to be his last. Unfortunately, I will not attend either. A grand-daughter has chosen that date (17 May) as her wedding day. Several years ago she made me promise to give her away when the time came. Well guess what --- looks like it is coming and I am committed. Would like to have gone on the chance that more G.P. folks show up. Guess we will have to depend on Andy to take pix and represent us.
So far though, 2008 has not been an ideal year for me. Spent most of January in hospital with open heart surgery (Mitral valve replacement --- I now tick!), aortic aneurysm repair (about 6" worth), and a pacemaker! Like an old car, have had a "top end" job. Am still weak with little stamina, and short of breath (COPD they say). Am in cardiac rehab and getting better. Can get out and walk around the hillside, drive, climb stairs etc. Am on a 10 pound "push - pull - drag" regimen until the 15th of April. Means I can't catch "monster catfish," hoe the garden, shovel the chicken house, or many other things needing done this time of year. Doc said if we had not caught the aneurysm that within 6 mos I would probably have been dead! It was one of those that if ruptured you'd be dead before you hit the floor.
Sorry that your health is not doing so well either. If it is fixable --- by all means GIT 'ER DONE! I am taking a daily dose of rat poison to keep blood thin so mechanical valve does not have to work so hard. Buy some stock in D-CON!
Note new email address --- am moving from dial-up to DSL lite. So far it is a vast improvement and is serving well. Will cancel dial-up in 30/45 days, as soon as finished with the transition.
Jim Cunningham
Mar 28, 2008
[ED NOTE: Have just finished going through the drill of names from the third, and final, set of orders scans sent by Art Delgado. Very productive for this point in time (7 years of work and counting). Highlights for me were definitive information on Gary L. Pickett (as I only remembered his name) and Billy R. Rhinehart (which listed his home of record), both deceased, unfortunately. There were eight other names unknown until now, that contained one other deceased 482nd member, A/2C William K. Hunt (interred Ft Mitchell Nat Cem., AL) and a WWII M/Sgt Robert C. Jones (born 1919 and apparently still alive in his home state of California). The other 6 additions, all enlisted, are Dewey Pasley, James L Shaffer, Larry Wheeler, Larry Yates, Neal Filley, and Boyd Chilton (in Bridgeport, WV). So folks, if you've got orders that you haven't sent (and the Goldsboro area has a s-pot full in the hands of procrastinating old codgers) ...well... you're about out of time.]
[PS. Thanks for the maximum effort, Art. Good job old friend. Stay in touch.]
[PPS. I'm not expecting to attend the reunion this year. As Paul Wagner told me before he died, "If there's a part on me working, I don't know what it would be." Travel no longer appears to be an option. George C.]
Mar 15, 2008
[ED NOTE: John C. LANDRENEAU, Detach 1, tried to get in touch this morning via phone ... don't know how he got through. He talked a little to my wife ... and says the letter I sent to Orange Park, FL, was to his son and that he's unlisted and living in Melbourne, FL. About it.]
[ED NOTE: With the recent losses of first term pilots Richard McCabe, Howard McWhorter, and Robert Stonestreet ... my heart fell into my shoes when I saw a 482nd email this morning from persons unknown with the subject Col. Hervey Stockman ... but we were just being allowed to see a fibre in the American fabric. GCW]
Mar 2, 2008
From: Karen Jacobs
Subject: COL. HERVEY STOCKMAN
Hello ... I would be interested to know if there is a way to get ahold of Col. Stockman as I just recently rediscovered his POW MIA bracelet I wore as a child of about 7 or 8 ... I may have been a little older when I actually got it. I wonder if he would be intersted in it. I just decided to Google his name when I found the bracelet and was more than happy to hear he came home and has such a storied military history. I remember looking for his name off and on in the paper but never finding it for some reason. Anyway, I hope this email reaches someone that will assist me. Thank you,
Karen Jacobs
Feb 23 & Mar 2, 2008
From: Harvey Ball
Thank you for the letter ... I went to the library to check out the web site and want to let you know that I am not deceased. It was nice to see the web site ... I live right next door to the library.
I was in Ground Support. I joined the USAF in 1956 and was in France in 1961. Honorably discharged in 1964. I'll be 71 in May. I still don't have my dose-o-meter.
Do you know Dawson or S/Sgt Butts? Have you heard from Lt. Petersen? Do you know if he is still alive? [ED NOTE: Oh, yeah!]
A lot of snow this year ... one for the record books. Do you remember the blizzard of '78? The National Guard had to rescue me and my bird from Winthrop, Mass. on the Atlantic.
Harvey Ball, 4 Bartlett St., Apt 2B, Chelmsford, MA 01824
Dolton R. "Sully" Sullivan
Sept 22, 1935 - Feb 12, 2008
Feb 15, 2008
From: Ralph Robledo
I just wanted to send my condolences to the Family of Lt. Col. Stonestreet. I had the pleasure of knowing Stoney way back in 1958 as a member of the "William Tell" team and again in 1959 again during "William Tell." Back in the Old Days he was "Alley Cat" and "Pretty Kitty" to us. Those were the names that we painted on his Aircraft. I also knew him as a Great Pilot and a wonderful person. As I read his stories of escorting Air Force One, and flying down to Florida during the Cuban crisis, I can just imagine him in that Cockpit. He was a take charge guy that was able to train his fellow pilots in the Air on combat procedures.
After leaving the 482nd, I was at Tyndall on a TDY, ran into Luther Menifee, who told me that Stoney was in his office. We went over and visited for a while, and he was a Major by then, I think. We had a great visit and I will really miss him. He was an Officer and a Gentleman.
Regards fom "ROBBY"
[Looking for 482nd members requires odd/unorthodox methods and occasionally, they work. I followed a lead below that came from a mortuary Guest Book. Long odds ... but it worked this time. GCW]
Feb 10, 2008
From: Hank Fulgencio
Hey George. Sorry I couldn't get back with you sooner - found your note on the e-mail box for John Seier. He worked at the same plant I did and was my boss at one time at Grand Blanc Weld Tool Center, which it is now called. I was an electrician and he was a millwright. I retired about ten years ago.
Some thing just popped up ... I'll get back to you later ... promise ... forgive me.
Hank, San Antonio, TX
Lt. Col. Robert Warren Stonestreet
June 22, 1929 --- Jan 29, 2008
Edw "Pete" Petersen: "Stoney was truly one of the nicest guys I ever met. One would be hard pressed to hear him say anything bad about people. Kind, friendly, and someone you would like to be around. He will surely be missed."
William Piper: "Very bad news indeed. There wasn't a finer guy than Stoney."
Lee Ruggels: "I can't really roll back my mind to the late 50's to revisit an event without Stoney easing himself into the picture, even if un-beckoned, just to add his endless good advice with maybe a complement or two that I valued so much then and value so much now."
Feb 6, 2008
Longhand from: Francis Chergosky
I received your letter 15 AUG 03. I discovered yesterday that I did not respond ... very sorry.
If you are still interested in the 482nd FIS, I'm sure I have some items in the attic.
I worked in the Admin/Personnel Section in the hangar on the flight line.
I am 80 years old today and I can still wear my uniform!
Well, please let me know.
Francis Chergosky, 14219 Mount Pleasant Dr., Woodbridge, VA 22191
[ED NOTE: I let him know immediately. Orders set arrived by mail Feb 16. THANKS!]
Feb 3, 2008
From: webmaster
Just learned that the U-2 on display at the National Air & Space Museum, Washington DC, is the same one Colonel Hervey Stockman flew in the first U.S. mission over Russia on July 4, 1956 --- an 8 hour & 45 minute mission. This U-2 was known as "Article 347" --- marked as NACA 187. You might want to stop by if you're in the area and get a chance ... I certainly want to. GCW
Jan 30, 2008
From: Gene Renwick
Running a little late and going through all my emails to shorten what has been accumulating in my inbox. On December 8th, the Doctors performed a quadruple bypass on me -- the first 2 days after surgery were not a whole lot of fun. They kicked me out on day 5 and the following week was a bit slow. Now, all seems to be going well -- back driving and showing houses when the opportunity arises.
They made two small little slits in a leg to harvest the artery. The slits are so small, you can hardly see them. I hear in the next 2-3 years, they won't be cracking your chest open any more either. Three holes or so is all they will need to do the job.
I hope all is well with you and the others that you stay in touch with. I planned on living to 140, and now I may have a shot at doing just that. Much fishing yet to do.
Gene Renwick, Las Vegas
Jan 18, 2008
From: George Willick
Subject: Amazing coincidence with Art's orders set (letter below this one).
A March 1957 set of orders sent in yesterday by Art Delgado showed several different transfers from Lowry to the 482nd and to the 48th at Langley. This web-site was directly effected by information on Art, Larry Hall, and Mike Hoehne. Additionally, John R. White was sent to Langley, but later transferred to the 482nd. I checked the rest of the names carefully ... a name ... "Lester J. Traband" struck me as familiar ... I had scanned the Langley photos many times so would have seen the name ... but the Inner-Voice said, "There's more ... you're missing something."
A few minutes ago while scanning today's posting of military deaths ... I came across an "L. J. Traband"... the bells went off and I checked it out. Dig this ... Philadelphia Inquirer
And the photos match. Just goes to show you what some of us accomplished ... certainly John White schooled with him ... others of us would have known him. ANYONE?
Jan 17, 2008
From: Art Delgado
Subject: 482nd. INFO
After receiving your email of 27 December, I decided to get my butt in gear. Lately, I have been going thru some old stuff ... books, paper work, etc ... and, of course, I found old service related paper work. I am including some as an attachment to this email. Check it out & advise if you want more.
Glad to hear from you. I can sympathize about things going wrong the older we get. At least health wise I am in great shape. I hope you are not doing too badly in that respect.
Art Delgado
Jan 13, 2008
From: Wana Thacker
Subject: Death in Family
Ed went to the hospital Thursday morning for knee surgury. That went ok, but the bad part come after he was in his room. But they got him under control. Then again Friday. He seemed better some what. But around 7pm he was having trouble breathing Dr. Croom and a lot of nurses came in and started working on him. He didn't make it. He was gone a little after 7pm.
He will be at Roller Funeral Home on 5, north of Mountain Home. Funeral is at 2pm Wednesday and visitation on Tuesday until 8pm.
[We also received Heads-up emails on Ed's death from Tom Sutton and Bill Acock.]
Jan 7, 2008
From: Anonymous
Subject: New Years Resolution
PLEASE GOD ... STRIKE ME DEAD IF I FORWARD ANOTHER PIECE OF JUNK MAIL OR HUGE GRAPHIC TO TIE UP ANOTHER PERSON'S EMAIL ... LIKE THEY GIVE A SHIT.
Jan 6, 2008
From: Don Wieser
Thanks for the "Heads Up" re new web-site, I enjoy it frequently!
Sorry to hear you are aging, not so sure ... anymore ... that its better than the alternative! I am OK but am feeling the 71 years of wear & tear.
I'm leaving for Texas, Friday ... will be gone 6-8 weeks, hope to return with a better attitude .
HOPE 2008 IS GOOD FOR/TO YOU ... AND/OR ALL OF US!
Don (Indianapolis, IN)
Jan 2, 2008
From: Bill Murray
Subject: Frank Kurzenhauser
My family and I had taken a little Christmas vacation, and when we returned home last Sunday evening, there was a message on the answering machine from Frank's wife, Barb, informing me that he had died last Friday. Barb was able to talk to me today, and said the funeral will be this coming Friday. Bill
Jan 2, 2008
From: Harold Hinson
Subject: KEY WEST BOCA CHICA NAS
Happy New Year!!!
When we were at the NAS staying in the wonderful Navy Barracks, a posting was put on the bull-board asking for vol's to go on a one day trip on the WWII commissioned SUB, The US SEACAT. Booher, Brown (this is the name I remember), and myself went on the ship. Does anyone else remember this? I have found the SEACAT website ... working on the story. When I complete it, I will provide a copy for the 482nd files.
Hope you are well, again thanks for all you do.
Harold Hinson, Raynor Adams & Associates, Inc., 7526 Whitepine Road, Richmond, VA 23237
[Not well ... but still sexy and a liar. GCW]
Jan 1, 2008
From: George C. Willick
Subject: New 482nd Web Host and URL
On the one hand --- I am sorry to announce that for the third time the 482nd has changed web hosting services. I have reduced the irritation to as little as possible ... adding only my middle initial to the domain name --- instead of gwillick.com its now gcwillick.com. Which doesn't help the confusion for the next several months until the search engines shake out the old entries.
On the other hand --- we were housed at Phoenix, AZ, but are now housed with the EV1Servers data centre in Houston, TX. 100,000 square feet of web hosting space connected to the Internet through 14 Gigabit Ethernet links from six separate backbone providers, with over 20,000 Windows and Linux web servers ... one the largest in the world.
So what brought this on? The previous hosting service goofed up its credit card encrpytion program so that errors appeared in the numbers sent...causing immediate rejection. Their response was to suspend, without notice, domains that went beyond their yearly deadline...no warning whatsover that there was a problem. The website went down, taking with it all other domain services (email and ftp) and no way to enter a new credit card or correct the errors in the old one. As the old saw goes..."If someone takes you once, shame on them ... if they take you twice, shame on you."
Now...I had to move several large websites the hard way ... one file at a time. Multiple errors, crashes, and data corruptions occurred...unlikely all have been cleared. Please send those to me if you find a problem.
For general information, the new website URL is http://www.gcwillick.com/482ndFIS/index.html.
Hope you are all recovering from the holidays. I'm getting a little slow in the head for this programming confusion ... but if anything happens, the new domain is paid for out three years.
Take care. GCW
P.S.
These members acknowledged the 'site change' mailing and added a line or two, a couple neat data updates, photo IDs, general chit-chat, and a couple panic Forwards-from-Outer-Space (always deleted unopened) ... all of which tells us they are alive and well:
Bill Acock, Jerry Crutchfield, Jim Cunningham, Andy DeCuzzi, Brent Ellis, Blaine Emanis, Bill Gamble, George Hance, Dennis Lisac, Roger McCumber, Glenn Mitchell, Elmer Olson, William Pafford, Art Patterson, Frank Patterson, Nathan Pessah, William Piper, William Plemmons, Ralph Robledo, Lee Ruggels, Charles Skipper, Steve Smith, Tom Sutton, Ed & Wana Thacker, Robert Treubert ... so far.
Bad news for this mailing is that over 40 email addresses bounced ... more than all the other years put together. If you're reading this and DIDN'T receive an email from me ... please send me your email address.