Night A/B turn, tail off; note firehose in net
Updated 16 Apr. 03
[Entries 1-100; click here for entries
101-200]
RAdm. Red Best (USN, Ret), closed our 1999 Gunfighter Banquet with the following (author not known to us; anybody know?)
The pilot was everyone's hero
He was brave, he was bold, he was grand
As he stood by his by his battered airplane
With his goggles and helmet in hand.
But for each of these flying heroes
There were thousands little reknowned
And these were the men who worked on the planes
But kept their feet on the ground.
We all know the name of Lindberg, and
We've read of his flight of fame.
But think if you can of his maintenance man,
Can you remember his name?
And think of the wartime heroes
And the acclaim that they all got.
Can you tell me the names of their crew chiefs?
A thousand to one you cannot.
Now pilots are highly trained people
And wings are not easily won,
But without the work of the maintenance man,
Our pilots would march with a gun.
So when you see a powerful airplane
As it makes its way through the air,
Remember the grease-stained man with the wrench in his hand,
For he is the one who put it there.
Ladies, Gentlemen, Comarades, A toast to our departed brothers of the
Crusader family, and to those special men who put us in the air.
Dedicated to the guys
who kept these beautiful beasts in the air, working long hours under
trying conditions. I am really impressed by notes all you maintainers
have sent in. I didn't think anybody would feel "ownership" of those
birds if they didn't get to play with them. It may not have been
apparent at the time, but your work was appreciated. It is even more
appreciated now, when we look back with the wisdom of age, and realize
how much we really owe you guys. Thanks!!
Respectfully,
Dave Johnson, VF-13 66-69; Line Division, Flight/Scheds, Safety, Paddles (but not all at the same time!)
Ever since
the last F-8 was retired, we pilots have had a reunion -- an "Annual
Last Crusader Ball". In addition, we are trying to create a database of
all the guys who ever flew the Crusader. Several guys have suggested
that maintenance types do something similar. You need two things: a few
people who are willing to do all the work, and a lot of names. I will
pass on all maintainer files to whoever is willing to take care of it.
Meanwhile, I will do what I can when I can. -- Dave
Click here to be added to the database
CONTRIBUTIONS WILL BE LISTED MOST RECENT FIRST
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100.
I was a Plankowner in VF-202 when it was formed at NAS Dallas. At
first I was pretty upset because I lost my flying status in the C-118 group
but the move to the U-Birds was the best thing that could have happened to
me. I finished my career as an assistant Maintenance guru to Master Chief
E.D.VanEck, a super guy to work for. One of our best officers was 'Max'
Gore. Had the priviledge of attending his Change Of Command ceremony. Very
moving experience. We sent one of our birds to Kuwait when it looked like
they might change to the F-8 from the British Lightening. Mr.Cunningham flew
our plane and never had a tire change during the whole event. We were
impressed with his flying and he complemented us on a well-maintained
aircraft. Thanks for the opportunity to put in my 2 cents about a super
plane.
E.C.'Gene' Herrmann ATN-1 USNR-R-TAR Ret
gramps1935@cs.com
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99.
Thank you for your support of the VF-154 F-8 Era web site
(http://www.htcomp.net/kelso) since its inception and subsequent
operation. Some of you have invested considerable effort and even money
in research to give the web site the appeal necessary to perform its
mission: the reuniting of long-lost squadronmates of the years 1957 to
1966. A measure of success has been realized, and now several
ex-squadronmates are in contact. We feel vindicated in our efforts.
As many of you know, I am the webmaster for subject site and since the
first of the year have sought a replacement webmaster because of
personal plans to sell our house and acreage, then travel, living in a
fifth-wheel trailer with very limited access to telephone lines.
Recently an enthusiastic buyer has surfaced and a sale is scheduled to
close at the end of August, 2000, with possession at the end of
September or thereabouts. I see no reason that this sale will not take
place. This means that in a matter of weeks I will no longer be able to
maintain the site, and unless someone firmly commits being the new
webmaster, sadly the web site will be terminated. Some have volunteered
to accept the responsibility of the site but have since failed to
maintain contact, so the site's future is uncertain at best.
Once again, thank you for your contributions to the site's limited
success. I would like to express particular gratitude to the following
for their contributions:
Mr. Tom Ingalls for unfailing moral support, countless hours of work, an
upbeat attitude and his superior and reliable maintenance of the photo
album site at his own personal expense;
Mr. Al Matthews for more unfailing moral support, time, money and
energies expended in squadron historical research;
Mr. Bob Dorais for yet more unfailing moral support as well as a link on
his web site and a true shipmate relationship that transcends
differences of age and naval era, and exemplifies the continuation of
the U.S. Navy can-do/shipmate spirit handed down through Navy men of all
generations;
Mr. Les Jackson, without whom some of the site's most impressive
photographs would be missing;
Messrs. Rodney Gonzalez and Sam Thrasher, whose enthusiasm for the site
has lifted me many times when discouragement was present;
Mr. Veryl Champine, without whose tolerance, mentoring and friendship a
difficult cruise would have been much more difficult, and whose liberal
contributions of fine sea stories made significant contributions to the
squadron historical record;
Messrs. Bruce Boland, Errol Reilly, Hank Glindeman, Jack Finley, Nels
Tanner, Dr. Robert Shumaker, Royal Cherry and Dave Johnson whose
encouragement and warm friendship from incredible naval officers who are
a living part of our nation's history continues to impress and humble
this former one-tour enlisted man.
Finally, to all others who by their encouragement through simple contact
and friendship have helped us with this work, you are greatly
appreciated.
To all, I hope to maintain contact, albeit sporadic, in the future and
eagerly look forward to your continued friendship. May God bless you
all.
Randy Kelso
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98.
Back in the late 50's and early 60's I was a young metalsmith assigned to
VF-142, "The World Famous Fighting Falcons" stationed at Miramar. I
spent my young life in the Nose Docks, just down from Main Ops. During
those times I worked on and maintained the F8U, F8U-1; F8U-2; F8U-2N, and
the F8U-2NE.
Made two cruises with the Crusaders, one on the Oriskany (West Pac)
59/60, Adm. "Jumping Joe" Clifton was Flag. and then made the "Around
The Horn "cruise on the Kitty Hawk. Our squadron, VF-142, was flown from
the West Coast to the East Coast to pick up the Kitty Hawk and bring her
back to San Diego. Was a SIERRA HOTEL cruise.
Just to throw out a few names of the fellas during that time, the Skipper
was, CDR. T.P.Dankworth; the XO was LCDR Schindler, now for some of the
younger guys, LCDR Lou Sarodsy; LT L.R. (Moose) Myers; LT R.R.
Loomis, and yes, LTjg Ron Evans.
I was there when Sarodsy quite flying, he was a neat pilot and person,
but his eyes failed and he knew it. Did alright though, now RADM
Sarosdy, USN (Ret). However, when we returned we also were one of the
first squadrons on the West Coast to pick up the F4H-1. I spent the rest
of my navy career in Phantom's. In 1976, I retired as the Maint. CPO of
VF-11 (The Red Ripper's)
"THE MAN WILL NEVER FLY MEMORIAL SOCIETY"
Last year, Capt. JB Dadson and I took over the Man Will Never Fly
Memorial Society. You ask ? what the hell is that. TMWNFMS
is a tongue in cheek org. that spoofs aviation. I mean all kinds of
aviation, we're talking Orvile & Wilbur, military, civilian, if you screw
up we're going to have a party and roast you. Matter of fact, we have a
party every year. The date never changes, it's the l6th of Dec. the day
before the alleged flight of Orville and Wilbur. We rent the entire
Comfort Inn, South, Nags Head, N.Carolina. Have a catered meal, a skit
to spoof aviation put on by various groups, and then ADMINS on every
floor for all. Click here to go to "THE MAN WILL NEVER FLY MEMORIAL SOCIETY" website!
Jim "Frenchy" Bedeaux >>> jbedo@juno.com <<<
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97.
I just came across the iron angels web site and was
pleased to see photos of the officers under which I
served between Mar. 1967 and Dec. 1970. I was
shipboard for 2 deployments and was fortunate to be
assigned to the check crew for 2 deployments.
Is this web site related to the iron angels alumnus
organization? I have been receiving reunion info from
them but due to my work schedule I have not been able
to become active with the group.
I remember George Wells as I prepped him during
preflight many times when I worked the roof as a plane
captain. I also contacted our old XO, Guy Cane, in
Annapolis where he runs an executive jet service.
Unfortunatly there are not many recognizable names on
the roster. Seems that many of us of that era are not
aware of the group or choose not to become recognized.
I would certainly enjoy talking to someone who shared
these experiences with me during those 'adventurous'
times of our youth. I still have the old cruise books
so I can put names to faces. It's the current
whereabouts of my old shipmates that's the problem.
I live in Baltimore now but back then Frank Vilics and
I were known as the Cleveland Kids.
Feel free to network my address as I'd like to com
with anyone who remembers me.
Best regards to all those Iron Angels out
there...
Bernie Ochmann ochmanb@yahoo.com
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96.
I've been retired for twenty years as a PNCS but my experience with belonging
to F8 Squadrons goes back to VU10/VC10 at GITMO from '59 to '63. I have not
contributed to the maintenance of the aircraft but I still felt an important
part of the overall MISSION of these Squadron's. I've tried to read all the
input and I might have missed something but I would like to say that one of
my old pool playing partners and mainstays of the F8 community was, to my
understanding, a Master Chief John Massey who took the last F8 Squadron from
Miramar to Florida in the '80's and has since passed on. He was a bigger
then life individual that I was proud to know.
PNCS Larry Peacock, USN(RET),
Citfan@aol.com
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95.
i just discovered the gunfighters site, sure brings back some great memories,
i was in vf-211, 1966-1969. a little disappointed to not see any messages
from any vf-211 people from my era, we had a great sq. , and some fine
skippers. cdr's marr and speer being two of the best . as a plane captain,
and later as a flt. deck AT troubleshooter i remember a lot of good times,
and some bad, when we lost pilots, i still work in the avionics business, at
federal express, avionics line. if there are any old vf-211 guys out there,
feel free to e-mail me at nts313@yahoo.com --
Neal T. Smith,
-- ex AT-2, now working for federal express in Memphis, avionics
line.
here's a little tidbit, i was recently in subic?cubi pt. on a 30 day
temp assignment with fed ex, they still have an old f-8 on static display
there. and, lol, you can relive in olongapo and subic city, although i'm
getting a little old for that. have a great day
best rgds, neal
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94.
Thanks for the great info from a former Iron Angel (1966-1967). This is not
my computer (son-in-law's). Lost my cruise book in a flood in 1985. I was a
plane captain on the 200 in 1967.
Richard M. Weeks AMS 3
[Thank you for responding to my father (Richard Weeks). He was very excited
that we found your website!
Since I do not live in the same state as my parents, would it be possible to
send any e-mail to my sister (LISA4ROGANDKIDS@aol.com)? She and her family
live very close to my parents and could pass along any information quicker
than I could.]
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93.
I had the priviledge to serve one F-8 tour with some mighty fine aircraft
maintainers while attached to VFP-63. Some Like AFCM John Massey have gone
on to watch for "Burners in the Sky". Others like AFCM Okie Bob Layton
continue spinning "F-8 Yarns", along with "Fish Stories" at Lake Longmiere,
near Pauls Valley Ok. My complete list of duty stations were; Crash Crew at
Nas Miramar, 1958-60. VF-92, (F-3H) Uss Ranger 1960-61. VF-193, (F-3H) USS
Bon Homme Richard 1962-63. VF-142, (F-4H Transition) USS Constellation
1964. NATTC Memphis (Instructor) 1964-68. VS-38, (S2E) USS Bennington, USS
Hornet, USS Ticonderoga 1968-71. NAMTRADET Oceana (A-6), 1972-73. USS
NIMITZ PRECOMMUNIT 1973-75. VS-31, (S-3A), Uss Independence, 1975-76. Fleet
Reserve, 1976-79. VFP-63, (RF-8G) USS Nimitz, 1979-81. NAVAL SAFETY CENTER,
1981-85. VF-143, (F-14) USS Eisenhower 1985-87. NAVAL SAFETY CENTER,
1987-89. After retiring with 30 years, the last 18 as an AMCS, I worked at
NADEP NORFOLK 1990-96 & NADEP Cherry Point 1996-97. I have been retired
completely since 97.
The 1979-80 "Round the World" Cruise with VFP-63 DET 5 on USS NIMITZ &
USS CORAL SEA is a memory I will always CUSS & CHERISH. It was a long tiring
trip, with one stretch of 125 straight days at sea, but the Officers & men of
DET 5 stood up to all challenges. Probably the single most amazing thing,
was that we never removed a tail from any of our aircraft aboard ship, in the
entire cruise. Two engine changes were performed at Nas Sigonella.
James D. "JD" Blair AMCS USN Retired, JBlair3427@aol
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92.
Hi' to Okie Bob, Joe Nagel, Dave Eyer & the rest of the VFP-63 crew! I still have some more of the F-8 page to browse,
but haven't noticed any mention of Cdr. Donnie Cochran yet. He was a young
Jg. when we made the 'round the world trip on Nimitz & Coral Sea in 79 & 80,
in VFP-63's Det 5. Cdr. Cochran went on to two tours with the Blue Angels,
the second tour as "Boss!'
James D. "JD" Blair AMCS USN Retired, JBlair3427@aol.
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91.
I'm GySgt A. J. Salt USMC Ret. I was in the first
squadron of F-8's that the Corps established in 1957 at MCAS El Toro
MAG-33 and it was VMF-334 that Gen. (then Capt. Hal Vincent brought to
us the first marine F8 on the west coast. She was rolled into the large
H&MS-33 hanger, the doors closed and armed guards stationed around her,
she was quite a sight and I was very excited to have been selected for
the squadron. I had seen the Crusader posters when I was stationed in
Spokane on I&I staff and working on the old F9F-6 Cougar. From VMF-334
which was flying the F8U-1, I then went to VMF-251 who recieved some of
the first F8U-1E's, right next door from 1958-59 after going to factory
training at Chance-Vought in Dallas. I then went to VMCJ-3 using the
F8U-1P in 1959 ( By the way we had the aircaft that John Glenn had used
on his record run across the U.S., the converted fighter to photo bird)
I forget the entire BuNo but it was 139--- if my memory serves me) and
went to Iwakuni in 60-61 with VMCJ-1 and while there, "They" had to
repair the runway so we went to Cubi Point, "hmmmmm" right after the
Powers shoot down, although we did see this strange "Gooney" bird with
wide wings fly out of there a few times. Our pilots were flying
"Moonsuits" so this was no ordinary drill to say the least. The
Crusader as you very well know was an exciting airplane......... for
"Everyone" Pilots as well as the mechanics, we were very,very proud
everytime one of ours would put her wheels in the well or we would watch
a formation of themn break over the field. In 1964 I rejoined VMCJ-3 and
left in Oct for MCAS Iwakuni "again", we weren't there to long when we
went to Cubi in December of 64 for deployment and lost our Flight Line
Officer Capt. Paddy Derig on the island of Mindoro. Then we were
notified we would be sending 2 RF's to the USS Hancock to augment a
Detachment of VFP-63, I was selected by the C.O. to take the Yankee Team
as a Sgt. (E-4) on board Hancock. Our two pilots were 1/Lt. Ken Senicki
and 1/Lt "Nathan Detroit", they were the greatest we had ever seen when
it came to landing that bird on the pitching, rolling deck at "0" dark
thirty in the Tonken. Not much has been said about the "Lovable Hanna"
but we did some things that no one ever admitted to..... We were on
station from Dec 64 to Feb 65. .......I could go on all night with
stories about one of the greatest aircraft ever to be assembled.
I have some old photos from Nam of the Sqd who found the enemy and
caused
Operation Starlight to happen in Aug 1965.
1st Lt. Judkins, who IS the onlyNaval aviator to ever JUMP from a
Crusader. It happened when VMF-323 was Transpacking to Atsugi Japan.
Trust me, it's true. And some very mysterious findings came from the
wreckage.
Sincerly
GySgt. A.J. Salt USMC Ret.
VMCJ-1 1960-61, 64-65
USS Hancock CVA-19
Yankee Station Dec 64-Feb 65
Augmenting VFP-63 somewhere
in the South China Sea
...........Semper Fi all my fellow "F8 Keepers" & Semper Fi Crusader Drivers
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90.
Attached to VF-211,71-75 onboard Hancock. To many great stories to tell
about maintaining F8J's. God, my knuckles hurt thinking about it.
Gotta love it......Who's ready for a FOD walkdown prior to an alpha
strike?
T.L. "Bo" Bolender
ADJ-2
VF-211
Thomas.Bolender@Honeywell.com
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89.
Came across your site tonight and was pleasantly surprised to see the picture
of the F8 (BuNo150904) with VF162 squadron markings. I was an ADJ2 with VF162
from approx June 67 to May 70. Can't say for certain, but I probably worked
on this bird at some time.
I don't believe I have any manuals or other written information that would
help you in your efforts. However, I may be able to remember some of the
things we had to do to maintain those birds in flying order. I did spend many
hours, days and years crawling up, over, around and through them. I was part
of a "Bingo" team that would go into Viet Nam (usually DaNang) from the ship
to repair damaged aircraft to make them flyable back to the ship - - if
possible. Consequently, I was able to get experience in areas that many
engine mechanics may not have had. Also, ADJ's were the only maintenance
people in the squadron allowed to take the engines over 80% N1. So, we got to
do lots of A/B runs. What a kick in the butt - - especially if you had one
with a hard light!
As a plane captain, "Diving the duct" holds fond memories of crawling down
the intake to make sure there was no FOD. Couldn't see the bottom of the
engine from the intake lip -- so, had to crawl down there to make sure.
Engine was the P&W J57-P20 w/ after burner. I believe it developed about
10,000 lbs thrust in basic engine and about 16,000 lbs thrust w/ A/B. The
aircraft would hold approx 9700 lbs of fuel in the wet wing tanks and several
fuselage bladder tanks. At sea level, at 100% N1, fuel flow was about 6,000
lbs per hour. That would give about 1 1/2 hours of operation in basic. But
with A/B lite off, only about 20 minutes til "quiet time". I remember a
visual sight gage (a float ball) on top of the wing that we could check to
assure a full fuel load - - since the wing was the last tank to fill.
The J model had the engine bleed air (boundary layer) operational life
extension mod which was bled over the aft wing and flaperons to improve lift
and reduce laminar flow separation at slow speeds. Unfortunately, it also
took power away from the engine so the throttle stop was removed from the
quadrant and a modification was made to the fuel control unit such that the
pilot could overspeed the engine (in an emergency - - like an imminent ramp
strike on a low approach) by advancing the throttle through the 100% position
and schedule more fuel to the engine. That would usually result in an engine
removal for o'speed and o'temp which put the pilot on our favorite people
list. But it could also save the a/c from major damage or loss.
Also, with the boundary layer in use during take off's and landings, the loss
of power from the engine, plus the extra weight of ordnance of the aircraft
for combat usually required A/B operation for most takeoff's from the
carrier. Takeoff weight was around 30,000 lbs, so the A/B had to augment the
slingshot to avoid structural damage from setting the catapult too high for
the structural attachments.
The wing fold could be done from the hand pump in the w/w. With the wing fold
handle in the up position, I seem to remember that all we had to do was pump
like crazy until the locking pins retracted - - then the wing tips would
begin to fold. Sometimes one would begin before the other so you had to pump
until both were fully up. Then jury struts were inserted into the wing fold
area because when pressure would bleed off, the wing tips would fall back
down. Also, if the speed brake had bled down, it would have to retract first
before adequate pressure was available to the wing fold area.
Access to the main fuel tank was through an access panel in the speed brake
well. I believe I remember about seven fuel pumps (normal flight and inverted
flight) in that tank. Interconnect tubes to the other bladders had
acceleration flapper valves to prevent fuel shifting to the rear tanks during
takeoff acceleration. All tanks fed to the main tank which fed the engine
through a large fuel line in the RH main w/w.
You could also raise the wing to the "dirty" position with the pump handle.
The wing leading edges would droop (don't remember the exact angles now) and
the flaperons would droop down to create an extreme camber for slow flight,
take offs and landings. If memory serves, landing speeds with the wing dirty
was around 120 Kts, but was around 160 Kts if they couldn't raise the wing.
Also, nose wheel steering for taxi was inoperative if the wing was down.
The hand pump could also extend and retract the IFR probe.
Don't want to bore you with this stuff - - Hadn't thought about it in quite a
long time. I would very much like to see more pictures of the aircraft and
the VF162 squadron markings from other angles. I remember a Snoopy riding a
missile up on the top of the vertical fin. Can't tell from this picture if
it's there.
Also, I appreciate your efforts and enthusiasm with the aircraft. They were
very special and unique machines. There was always a little one-up-mans-ship
between the single seaters (F8's) and the two seaters (F4's). If you had to
have two seats, you weren't really a gunfighter (or words to that effect!).
One last thing - - We may have been the only squadron to have had a pilot fly
an F8 as an open cockpit aircraft - - on purpose. A maintenance - ferry
flight from Miramar to North Island. The pilot said it was pretty windy!
Regards and keep up the good work. Maybe I'll be able to see the a/c someday.
Mike Madewell HiBootav@aol.com
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88.
Hello!
I enjoyed the photos and information very much! I served in the fighter
squadron VF-111 from 1963-66. I was a mechanic on the j-57 engine.
William K Bastian
E-mail sbastian1@juno.com
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87.
i served in 451 during 1965-66 in the maintenance
office...i'm curious if some of the pilots are still alive and
what happen to them....i remember marshall, lawrence,
dilley, o'neal, and lt. col. r.n.smith (co)...we had a great
squadron of officers and men....any help would be
appreciated.....
Woody Taylor [curd280a@curtiscirc.com] (sgt)....
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86.
I am Milton kubiak, was in VF-53 from 1968 to 1971 AE-2 plane, caption,
made 2 west-pac trips on the CVA-31 bon homme richard. I am in touch
George (curt) Miller,and Roy milligan also of VF-53
kubiak7@juno.com
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85.
My name is Michael Cramer I was an ABH-3 in crash crew aboard the
USS Oriskany during the 1970/71 cruises. I am looking for anyone who
remembers the
incident involving aircraft No. 111 from VF191 squadron. The pilot was
LT John
B. Martin II I believe. Any squadron member who recalls that tragic day
triple sticks
hit the round-down please contact me. The pilots of the sqadrons aboard
were some of
the bravest men I have known.
Thank you
Michael L Cramer ocanvas@olypen.com
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84.
I have just spent several hours viewing this wonderful site,
"GUNFIGHTERS PAGE". It is obvious that thousands of ours have been
contributed to making it what it is. I wish to let you know that it is
appreciated.
I have recognized a number of names that I have had the privilege to be
associated with during my 27 years service to our country.
I tip my "Stetson Silver belly" to each and every one of you.
Best personal regards and thanks.
Clyde W. "Tex" Holland texh@pacbell.net
LCDR U.S.Navy (Ret)
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83.
My name is Stephen L. Adams, I served with VF-24 from Jan-66 to Mar-69. My
rank was ADJ-2 when I left the Checkertails and the Navy. I went on to Join
the Naval Reserve. Spent 15 yrs. with VAQ/VAK-208 (KA3Bs), then went on to
VR-55 (C9Bs) when 208 decommissioned. Served in Desert Shield/Desert Storm
and retired in 1995 as an ADCS. The F-8 was my first love and will always be
my favorite. Still to this day, when I am around an airport and smell that oh
so familiar jet exhaust, I get goose bumps and my heart pounds a little bit
faster. I have been to the wall in D.C. but I am still not able to go up and
touch the names of the pilots lost during the 3 cruises that I made with
VF-24. I am now working with the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corp, I am the
Commanding Officer of Training Ship Midway in Hayward Calif.
My e-mail address is adcsadams@aol.com.
P.S. I am trying to find a cruise book from the 1968/69 Hancock cruise.
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82.
came across your site while surfing for USS Hancock. very nice site with
lots of info dave johnson did a good job . any way your triva for today . i am
probably the only non pilot to have been awarded a "faster than shit" plaque
& lapel pin . while attached to USNTPS 67/69 AS MCO we had 2 TF8A's, 2 of
the the 3 mfgd . 2 seaters . beautiful machines.i got numerous flights in
them, test flights, rons, etc. CDR D.Z. Skalla (asst dir TPS) and i took this
one to Norfolk OR for rework in 68 and he gave it to me in the PaxRiv Warning
Area and i lit the burner, pushed over 15 dgr's, gentle left hand trun, and
earned my 1000 MPH . i have many enjoyable thoughts about my Naval career,
being an enlisted B/N in A3D's , A5's (earning a Mach ll pin), and enlisted
RAN in RA5's , then being selected for Warrant Officer and having my 1st
assignment at TPS. but i'll remember that flt because at 1st i didn`t give it
back to "DZ" was having such a grand time ,his 2nd "give it back to me" broke
the trance. do you know of any other non pilots.
"WHEN YOU`RE OUT OF F8`s ---
YOU`RE OUT FIGHTERS" & "VIGGIES FOREVER"
DONALD PIERCE, CWO,USN,RET Dwpierce331@cs.com
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81.
Was a member of VF-661 at andrews NAS. Would take some time but may be able to supply a list of members from 1967 to 1969.
JC Black [jblack@skynetusa.net]
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80.
Hi. Outstanding site. I was a structure mechanic in VMF-122 working on the
Crusader from late 1962 until the F-4 in 1965.
Semper-Fi
Harold Schomburg
USMC1959-1966 Harplane@aol.com
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79.
Thank you for a great web site. I work on both the F8J and P while with VFP63
in San Diego from 1974 to 1978.
AME3 Warren Jones BLOCK3131@aol.com
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78.
To this day I cannot forget the pride I felt watching my 12 airplanes arrive
overhead, enter the break and trap aboard as we prepared for CQ on Oriskany.
The names on the canopy rails may have belonged to the pilots but there was
never any doubt in any maintainers mind who really owned the birds. To us
the birds were almost living, breathing entities each with their own
personality. My goal was to do my best so the pilot had the finest weapon to
do his job.
I was an AE3/2 in VF-194 from 1969 to 1971, made two cruises to Viet Nam and
found I liked fixing aircraft, associating with the pilots and working
maintenance. Now that I have retired after 32 years of Naval Service I look
back on those years as the best in my career.
The green, red, white, and brown shirts who
prayed for the safe return of every flight.
Clark Jones SCJJr@aol.com Cdr(LDO) USN(ret)
----------------------------------
77.
Hi, just wanted to say hello.
Jim Kinslow JJasKinslow@cs.com, 68-70, VF-62, VF-111.
----------------------------------
76.
Bob Chaney [bobchaney@tcsn.net] I served on the CVA-34 Oriskany in
67-68 and the Coral Sea CVA-43 in 1998 to 1999 as a Photo
Intelligenceman. Do you know of any groups getting together, or if
there are any squadron hats still around mine has worn out and I would
like to get another.
I lost track of every one after Lt. Rudd was lost in the early 70's I
used to keep track through one of his aunts that I knew. Waiting for
your response.
bob.
----------------------------------
75.
Robert McCauley [bobmccauley@lvcm.com] former ADJ plane Capt./PP Mech.
and QA on F-8's. Made Oriskany cruises 62-63-64. Was on Atsugi Maint
Det when JFK assassinated. They got us up and we had to belt ammo
around 4:00am. Thought world war III was starting!
This is a great web site. I retired from USN in Dec 1978 as AZCM and
went to work for another 20 years with ComNavAirPac as a CivServ
(worked for CDR Rusty Allman too, before he retired from CNAP).
----------------------------------
74.
Looking for Marines who served at Atsugi, Japan in VMF-334 from
1957-1958.
J. Gray
P.O. BOX 29
ELK MILLS, MD 21920
E-MAIL: jerfran@iximd.com
----------------------------------
73.
Ralph Pallesco toysfortots_1@msn.com
I was a plane captain on the F8U with VMF (aw) 451 at
Beaufort S. C. in 64 any one in the outfit then drop me a line.
----------------------------------
72.
Image*I*Nation mac-photo@home.com
Joseph J McAllister, PH3, 4/65-1/66
RF-8A and the VFP-63 Det E
Never was a stick wagger, but I was one of the camera mechanics with Det E
of VFP-63 on the Bon Homme Richard (4/65-1/66) and am having a hard time
finding much online mention of the squadron, the men, or even the poor
scrapped Bonnie Dick...
Anyone in your group have any info they could pass on? I sure would like to
strike up a conversation or two with some of my old squadron-mates.
Joseph J. McAllister
3908 SW Charleston St.
Seattle, Wa. 98116-3830
And hey, I WAS run-up and tow qualified!
"All my contributions to the art world are in boxes in the cellar."
"Probably right where they belong."
----------------------------------
71.
Glen A. Miller, PN1, Ret. 1970 miller1g@earthlink.net
Sir: I sure hope that you include the "Office Pinkies" in your list of maintainers.
Although we never turned a wrench on the A/C we did our best to
keep the ones who did happy by advising them on shore duty rotation, advancement
requirements, schools available, reenlistment benefits and lots of other things
that they were interested in.
My last squadron was VF-51 out of Miramar and I think it was the best duty I had
in my 22 years. Our cruise in 1968 was on the Bon Homme Richard and it seemed like
around the clock air ops and yet our pilots
never became grouchy or up tight with the enlisted personnel. As Career
Councilor I was able to set up for reenlistment 6 personnel who were above
average in their ratings, thus saving lots of money in training new personnel.
CDR. "Moose" Myers. and ENS Norm McCoy downed MIGs on that cruise. Seeing the
F-8's fly by and into the landing pattern was a great sight for this black shoe.
My first carrier was the Valley Forge (CVA45) in 1953 and at the time I was sure
that the pilots were all from mental wards because they would land on a carrier
with a straight deck, you either got a wire or hit the barriers and in some
cases bounce over the barrier and into the parked A/C. When I retired in 1970 I
had learned that the fighter pilot was just better trained and smarter than the
average bear.
I also was in VF-191 at Moffett Field in 52-53 and I think we were flying AD's.
Thanks for letting me spout off and for the great web page.
Glen Miller, PN1, Ret.
www.dockrat.org
--------------------------
70.
Patrick A. Nisley, ATCS
luvcraft@aloha.com
I find myself in the unique situation of being a Navy Senior Chief
Petty Officer attached to a Marine command. I was previously production
control Chief at NAS Barbers Point, but they closed us down and merged
us with MALSEK (formerly MALS 24).
Currently, I am doing the production
control leading Chief job at MALSEK (Marine Aviation Logistics Support
Element Kaneohe). We used to have an F-8K of USMC vintage on display at
the front gate here, but it has been moved to my hanger for
restoration. The BUNO is 146973. If you have any photos of this plane
in flying condition, I would be forever in your debt if you could send
me copies (preferably in color). The squadron logo on the tail depicts
a red devil inside a red diamond. I have no idea what Marine squadron
it was from, or when it may have been operating from Hawaii. My outfit
(MALSEK), has been tasked with restoring this aircraft to display
condition, so it can be put back out on the gate. I have to tell you,
it is in VERY bad shape, and will require extensive re-skinning.
Personally, I made my first cruise aboard USS INDEPENDENCE in 1980/81
(to the Indian Ocean), and on board was a det of RF-8's from VFP-63. I
will never forget the first time I heard one go into afterburner.
When we got the bird into our hanger, I mentioned to one of our
Gunnery Sergeants that he should have seen one ready for launch, with
the wing popped up for lift. He looked at me like I had a hole in my
head.
I remember vividly, the aircraft of VFP-63 having a set of "moon
eyes" looking down, painted on the forward bulkhead of the wing in the
raised position. I looked in my cruise book for a picture to show him,
but had no picture of such markings. Do you have anything remotely like
this? Thanks for your help.
Semper Fixit!
ATCS(AW) Patrick A. Nisley luvcraft@aloha.com
--------------------------------
69.
CBec999@aol.com
I was a plane captain with VF-162 aboard the Oriskany for three cruises, '64,
'65 and '66. I was priviledged to serve with some larger than life men such
as Richard Bellinger, Rick (Bulb) Adams, and Butch Verich. We worked three
day stretches without a bed or a shower, bitchin' and moanin' all the way,
But between the combat ops and the Asain liberty, we had a lifes experience
that money couldn't buy. I'm still in touch with Pete Trelin and Dave Starck
if any one wants to reach them. This is a great site and I wish you the best.
Chuck Beckman
Dublin, Ca
-----------------------
68.
Roofer007@aol.com
There is no doubt that the pilots are the heros.
I none the less served with VF-154 on the Coral Sea back in 1963 and 1964.
I often like to look back and cherish old memories as those are the most
powerful ones of my life. I to this day still feel a part of my old squadron
but have not been able to keep up with whats going on with it. I've seen the
Squadron Home page on the web but I've not been able to find any old stuff
that goes back to the early 60's when I was pulling those tail sections and
doing those highpower turn-ups. I also had a go at flight deck control while
onboard the Coral Sea.
Anything you might be able to point me at will be reatly appreciated as I
have finally learned a bit about this computer and I feel a great need to
hook back up with all the history on VF-154 and the Crusader aircraft.
By the way, I think I have seen some of the Marine plains on board CVA-43
Your reply will be appreciated.
-----------------------
67.
DaMeSSiah ixoye@electrotex.com
do you have any info vma 331, beaufort,s.c. 1963-1965 and present
whereabouts of the squadron?
do you have any info on 451..1964-1966..capt. o'neal..major
dilley...
from sgt. taylor (maint. office)
-----------------------
66.
cainj@hamptonroads.com
Any such an animal available for use "E's and Former E's" who care just
a much for the F8 as the "Pileits"? I was an AO1 in VF 191 from 67 - 70
(deployed on CVA 14 and 34). I was involved in the "F8 into K277" trick
in December 1969, awarded N&MC Medal. Retired as and LDO in 1990.
Mike Cain
-----------------------
65.
"sbeck95" sbeck95@gateway.net
I saw this on the internet and had to send something to you . I was in
VF-191 for the last years as an F8 outfit I made the last two cruises
with this unit on the ORISKANY. Im an AE-1 now with VR-58 as a reserve
an I have to keep explaining what an F8 is. To me it was the best
aircraft Ive ever worked on. My real job is with Ryan Intl Airlines as
an outstation mech. Ive worked on every type aircraft from a 757 to a
C9B Im run and taxi qual on all so when I say the F8 the best aircraft
Ive ever worked I mean it. So if anybody out there was in this unit at
this time and remembers an AE-2 Schwartzbeck drop me an E-mail Ill try
to respond but Im new to this.
thanks Wild Bill
-----------------------
64.
"Crawford, William" crawfordw@Microdyne.com
William E. (Bill) Crawford
crawfordw@microdyne.com
GySgt, USMC (Ret) Avionics
VMF-235--'59~'60 Beaufort, SC
VMF-312--'60~62 Beaufort, SC & Atsugi, Japan
VMCJ-3--'66~67 El Toro
VMCJ-1--67-68 Danang
Thank you for including the "Maintainers" in your Web Site.
I'd like to hear from some of the other Marine Crusader Maintainers and
from some of the Navy guy's that were in the red checkerboard squadron.
Sorry, but I forgot their squadron.
The ones in that squadron I would really like to hear from are those
that were aboard the carrier when VMF-312, the black checkerboarders,
were aboard. We painted black checkerboards on the bottom of the
fuselage of each of their planes just prior to their departing the ship.
When they had their flyover, unfortunately the skipper of the ship
noticed the blacl checker boards and had the squadron return to the
ship. We (VMF-312) then had to clean the checkerboards off and their
squadron had to have the cleanest bottoms in the Navy.
Thanks again, and maybe we can meet in Vegas someday.
Bill
-----------------------
63.
JBobHaley@aol.com
While stationed on the USS Saratoga (CVA-60) as senior CPO O-I division,
my Operations Officer was Cdr. Rhodes, later CO of USS Forestall who had
once set a speed record in the F8. I think that I still have the Naval
Aviation Magazine (title forgotten at the moment) with the article. I am
wondering if he is still alive and well. I got your website through Ken
Bolin (I am a contributer to the Trader Jon's Blue Angel Museum). He may
not, probably does not, remember me although I certainly do him.
ACC Joseph R. (Bob) Haley USN-RET
Joseph R. Haley Sr.
5845 Sherwood Forest Dr.
El Sobrante CA 94803-3551
Phone: (510) 222-4097
Fax: 15102224349
E-mail: jbobhaley@aol.com
-----------------------
62.
Veryl Champine champine@frontiernet.net
AQF2 from VF 154 1963 to 1966
I was in the fire control shop for two West Pac cruises, the one in 1963
when the Coral Sea went to Australia for the anniversary of the battle
of the Coral Sea and then made all of the rest of the West Pac stops, we
pulled in to Frisco on November 25th the day of Kennedy's funeral. Went
back to Miramar and then left for another cruise in early December 1964,
blew up a boiler on the way out of Frisco and ended up staying at Pearl
for a month. 154 made the first strikes against the north on Feb 7th,
1965 and flew over 1500 sorties during the next months, we had one at
sea period of 105 days, we stayed out when the Oriskany had a major fire
we returned in November 1965, . We had been out 336 days and flew a
homeward bound pennant as we came under the Golden Gate bridge.
Really enjoyed working on the Crusader, still think it was the best
looking bird that ever flew, we transitioned to the Phantom in 1966.
What a change, from the best to one of the worst looking birds that ever
took to the skies. Went
to an air show today (6/6/99), wearing a Coral Sea hat and met an old boatswain's
mate that had been on it a couple of years after I got off.
Does anyone have any information where there are F8s on display? Would
like to see one again.
Would like to hear from anyone that was a member of either VF 154 or
VF151, we shared the fire control shop on the ship.
Went back to Miramar last year as a guest of my LTJG son, a lot of it
looks the same, it does kind of hurt to see it called MCAS instead of
NAS but that's progress. Really brought back a lot of memories of the
"good old days"
I do have quite a few photos of air ops showing the F8s of WBJS (that's
World's Best Jet Squadron) to those of you not fortunate enough to have
been a member.
-----------------------
61.
"Bellflower United Methodist Church" umcbellflowerchg@ktis.net
I am John F. Johnson Jr and I once served in both VFP-62 out of Cecil
Field Fla. and went on to serve in VFP-63 Miramar, San Diego. I served
with a LT Johnson which was an F-8 pilot and our Maintenance Officer
the officer on this address would not the the same LT. Johnson would
it??? The cruse was sometime in 67 or 68 can't remember when. The
cruise was on the CVA-38 Shangri-La. If this is Lt. Johnson you might
remember me.
After the cruise you cam to my house in Jacksonville Fla. with Paul
Ordego. Pleas write back to this address.
umcbellflowerchg@ktis.net
-----------------------
60.
"Bohn, Arthur" Arthur.Bohn@wang.com
Just wondering why Marine Fighter Squadron (VMF) - 333 based at MCAS
Beaufort, SC (early '60s) and Marine Photo Reconnaissance Squadron
(VMCJ) -2 were not mentioned on the Marine Squadron page.
I was in the Maintenance Admin Office at the time and did the usual
paperwork on those birds. They were lovely, exciting to watch, and
awesome in flight!
VMCJ-2 was based at MCAS Cherry Point, NC in the '60s.
Just a short note also - our Maintenance Officer at VMCJ-2 during 1966 was
Major Jack Lousma, who was selected for the astronaut program and spent
a bunch of flight time (besides in F8s) flying to, and around, the moon!
(703) 827-3441
Art Bohn
MSgt Ret
arthur.bohn@wang.com
-----------------------
59.
"Crawford, William @ Microdyne.Com" crawfordw@Microdyne.com
That is great for the F8 Crusader pilots (even Navy pilots) to have
reunions, but how about us enlisted pukes who kept the b1rds up and
ready for you guy's to punch holes in the sky? We would like to see some
of our friendly officers that had the trust and confidence in our
ability to reassemble a b1rd after a major inspection and to take that
b1rd out for a max performance takeout with loops and spirals on climb
out.
How about it? Is it worth consideration?
Bill Crawford
GySgt, USMC (Ret)
Former member of VMF-235, VMF-312, VMCJ-3, and VMCJ-1 (RF-8's).
-----------------------
58.
Jay Powelson powelj@gte.net
Thanks for creating such a great page for such a great
airplane. My name is Jay Powelson, ADC, USN, Retired. I worked on
several different models of the F-8 in my 24 years in the Navy. I
started with DF-8A's with VC-5 Det Naha on Okinawa . From there to
F-8C's and H's with VF-124 and VF-111.Then later RF-8G's with VFP-63.
Almost half of my career was on Crusaders. I think they are still the
most beautiful fighter ever built. It's a shame that they couldn't keep
up with the technology and still be in service today. I now work for
Boeing as a flightline mechanic on B777's. I live close to Arlington
Wa.,where the NAS Arlington Museum has an F-8C that they hope to
restore. Hopefully I can be involved. Once again thanks for a great
tribute to the last of the true Gunfighters.
Sincerely, Jay Powelson,
ADC, USN RET Marysville Wa.
e-mail, powelj@gte.net
-----------------------
57.
Paulcg46@aol.com
I was aboard the Oriskany and was an AME. I can remember the morning
that I pre-flighted all the birds for VF-111. I found one on the hangar
bay that I figured would not fly that day, but checked it anyway. I
found the main firing pin unhooked. I re-armed the seat and didn't
think too much of this, but made a record of the problem. The next
day Ensign McPheney, I believe that's his name, was shot down in that
same bird. He punched out, but was captured. When we got back to the
States in Jan. '68, he and two other pilots were released. I would
like to think that I saved his life. If he is still around, I would
like to hear from him. Thanks to all the pilots that gave there lives
over there, and to those that are still AROUND, because someone checked
there seat. The F-8 pilots were a special breed.
Regards,
Paul C. Garrison VF-111,VF-211, ORISKANY AND HANCOCK. '67-'68, '69.
-----------------------
56.
Bob layton okiesoar@telepath.com
just read your web on Buno 150904. I'm a retired Navy Master
Chief AFCM. I have served with F-8s in VF-124 69-71, VF-194 71-76,
VFP-63 79-82 I have in fact worked on 150904 and more than likely did
the last maint turn on her before we transferred her out of VFP-63
in1982. I still have alot of my old maint F-8 special tools and some
manuals.I'm still in contact with alot of my old F-8 maint types of all
rates AMHs ,AMSs, AMEs, AEs, ADJs. we are all fully qualified and
capable of making any F-8 fly. Oh yes I also have a complete home movie{
super-8} of the 72-73 Oriskany cruise including the last air strike
event of the war. their maybe some shots of 150904 cats and traps. on
it. anyway if you need any assistance on the restoration please call
home #(405) 2382573 work(405) 238 5969 .
F-8s forever
AFCM Robert "Okie
Bob" Layton
118 N. Locust Pauls Valley Oklahoma.73075
-----------------------
55.
"Vallie, Thomas W, MSG, 114AGS, LGGGS" Thomas.Vallie@sdsiou.ang.af.mil
Concerning the restoration of 904, I noticed it is being painted in
VF-162's colors. I was an AQ-3 plane-captain on A/C 202 on board the
Ticonderoga in 1969. I have some pictures of the original and a model
in VF-162's colors. If I can be of any assistance, please
E-Mail me at vtom@sd.cybernex.net
My heart almost stopped when I saw a model of a F8-J in the hobby store
with not only VF-162's colors, but of A/C 202, my bird!
Now, to run across it again - what a rush!
Thanks, and good luck
MSG Thomas Vallie
South Dakota Air Nationa Guard
(formerly AQ3 in VF-162, 1969)
-----------------------
54.
XMAN112259@aol.com
I wonder if you might have Bill Metzger listed on your rolls. He flew
F-8's in Vietnam (WESTPAC) and I believe he may have lost 1 or 2 of
them. He later became my PPC in a VP squadron in 1981. The rest of
his crew is trying to find him.
Thank you,
Malcolm Swain ATC (AW/NAC) ret.
-----------------------
53.
I just discovered your Crusader website. It sure does bring back the
memories.
I was an AQF2 with VF62 in 1968-1970. We made two Med cruises on the Shang
during that time. Don Whitman was our CO.
John Alsup was my Division Officer. It was a great experience which I will
never forget I would really enjoy hearing from any of my squadron mates.
I have some good Shangri-La flight ops photos posted on John Allsup's web site
http://norcom2000.com/users/jtallsup/vf62photos.htm
Gerald Eckstein
1775 Potomac Rd
Fayetteville, NC 28304
email: geckstein@nc.rr.com
-----------------------
52.
Gcapps@aol.com
I was in vfp-63 from 68 thru 70 at miramar. I WAS A AMH-2 Have been
trying to find old buddies and pilots from my outfit.Was on det-14,
det-42, and det-38. Never have lost my love of this great plane.
have been looking for some of the old guys before we're all gone.
Doug " ceament ass " simpson...." Sugar " sjuggarud .............
Tommy young..... Any
of the guys from these dets.
gary CAPPS AMH-2
GCAPPS@AOL.COM
5513 GROVER
BOISE, ID 83705 (208) 336-7638
-----------------------
51.
"Harold Nielsen" harold@colusanet.com
Howdy.Couldnt believe theres a 451 page.I was in vmf-451 1961to1963
as aircraft electrician.I have our cruise book and will send you
info if you want it.My co was Lt.Col.Crew.
-----------------------
50.
jnagel@plix.com (Nagel, Joseph)
Assigned to VFP 63 June 1963,assigned to Det Bravo-USS TICONDEROGA 1963/
1964... assigned to Det GOLF-USS ORISKANY 1964/65....Assigned to Det 14
- USS TICONDEROGA 1966 /1967.... Assigned to Det 19- USS HANCOCK
1968/1969..... Made carrier quals on every carrier in the Pacific,
Until transfer to HSL31 Helicopters in August 1972....... In Oct 1978
Returned to VFP63 for Shore Duty. After back to back Carrier Quals I
requested a Detachment This time on the USS INDEPENDENCE... Transfered
back to Helicopters Aug 1980. Loved working on the F8 and the J57.
Joe Nagel ADC RETIRED
jnagel@plix.com
-----------------------
49.
VF24F8C@aol.com
Robert C Smith aka "Smitty" - ADJ-2
Served with the "Mig Killers" of Fighter Squadron 24 (VF-24: The
Fighting Red Checkertails) deployed to WESTPAC aboard the USS Bon
Homme Richard (CVA-31) in 1967 and the USS Hancock (CVA-19) in 1968-1969
and 1969-1970.
I was a Plane Captain for my first two cruises (a/c #200 - CAG-21 bird in
'68-'69) and worked in the Powerplants shop (QA Inspector with a Non-Pilot
Turn-up License) on my last cruise.
Currently concluding my second term as President of Vietnam Veterans of
America - Miami Valley Chapter #97 in Dayton, Ohio.
-----------------------
48.
"James W. Doran" jwdoran@co.mchenry.il.us
I was CAG Gunner of CVWR-20 in 1974-76. We had three Crusader
squadrons, VF-201 and 202 out of Navy Dallas and VFP-206 out of Andrews
AFB. At one time I went out to Miramar with a det of VF-202 for the Top
Gun School. The second night there I was in the main bar at the Miramar
O Club, in uniform, when I ran into RADM "Swoose" Snead. He berated me
for ruining my career by serving with the Reserves (like I had a choice!
However, it turned out to be one of the best tours of duty in my career
- Chuck Tinker and Tex Elliot were two of the three CAG's I served
under. ), he than berated the withered old Crusaders. I told the
Admiral to pick his best Tomcat and best crew, than come to my flight
line and pick the F-8 of his choice and pilot of his choice (my "JO's"
were LCDR with over 1,000 hours in the F-8) and put them head to head.
He said he'd think about it. The next day he was on the T-line when a
group of USAF fighters from Red Flag were taxied in. He met the first
bird, the USAF COL commanding climbed out and saluted and asked Swoose
what all of the Texas Tail Crusaders were doing at Miramar. Swoose
replied they were a bunch of (expletive deleted) reservists from
Dallas. The COL replied, "Yes Sir, I know - they brought their
Crusaders to Nellis a few weeks ago and handed us our ass!"
By the way, I was Paul Spear's Air Gunner when he was skipper of
Connie. I can honestly say that I have never served under a CO who was
a "Gunfighter" that wasn't head and shoulders above the Intercepter and
Air to Mud guys.
Great Web page.
V/R
CWO4 James W. Doran, USN (RET)
-----------------------
47.
"Mr. Bill Wade" billw@berksiu.k12.pa.us
I'm a High School Principal Sitting at my computer late Friday night
waiting for a dance to end so I can send the kids home happy.
I searched on VMF(AW) 235 and found that it was deactivated. Then I
found your page. It's great to remember. I was "Jesse" (no one has
called me that for 35 years) in the airframes shop. Morris, Maniscalco
and I would paint those lovely red and white decals on the planes, we
also became quit proficient at patching up those 30 cal. holes that
the pilots would come home with. I remember how I thought Col. Gibson
was just about the most important man in the world. I was called to
his office for not writing to my mother...I wrote she forgave me .
I remember Top telling a few of us if we were going to be in his
company and we opened a bottle we might as well throw the cork away.
I remember how much we liked the officers , they treated us well. It
seems that we were one of the last units to go as a unit,and not ship
boys that didn't know each other in and out . Does anyone remember
Jon Sills when we were taking off from El Toro . He was so scared he
promised God he would be good the rest of his life(talk about unkept
promises. It's great remembering my youth. I was nineteen .....It seems
like a lifetime ago. Thank You USMC and VMF(AW) 235 you made me a good
man. Ride Nunc
-----------------------
46.
CWO Hank Porter USN Retired - banshee4970@hotmail.com
Served in VCP-63 & VFP-63 from 1960 to 1963. VCP-63 had F8U-1P and A3D
photo birds. The A3Ds went to VAP-61 on Guam & we got their F8U-1Ps and
became VFP-63. I made Chief Mech while in Det. Delta on WESTPAC cruise
in USS Coral Sea (1962). Our OINC was LCDR R.E. Roberts. That was a good
detachment and a good cruise. LTJG Stetson was the photo intel officer.
Other pilots were LT R.L. Taylor, LT R.L. Tinsley, and LTJG Dave
Rottgering who later became a Blue Angel. (We trained him very well.)
Our Maintenance/Leading Chief was Ray Junker. My best buddy was ADJ1
Fred Heidmann. I had the privileged to attend his Chief's initiation
at NAS Norfolk. The rest of the crew were (in no alphabetical order)
--McInturff, Wacaster, Reuss, Wilson, Close, Shalmadine, Little, Pyle,
Lee, Barrs, Pendley, Lyles, Duprey, Clemons, Mayes, Jennings, Wolfe,
Higgins, Beaty, Nichols, Stevenson, Adney, Gambrell, Renslow, Schultz,
Bell, and Albertson. Hey, Ray Junker, Cubi Point Public Works is still
looking for the guy who drove that pickup truck into the jungle. Does
anyone out there remember the starboard-aft elevator falling off. One
of our most noted accomplishments was pissing off the chaplain by
conducting a high power afterburner turn-up on the hanger deck during
church services. I left VFP-63 in 1963 and I still miss it.
Chief Warrant Officer Hank Porter, United States Navy, Retired
-----------------------
45.
PHANTOM4@webtv.net (TOM EHLERT)
i served aboard the USS SHANGRI-LA(CVA-38) from 66-68. although i was
a "blackshoe" i loved to watch air ops whenever possible. i have many
slides of air ops onboard of VF-13,VF-62, and VFP-63 det-38. if these
would be of interest to you please e-mail me.
sincecrely,
tom ehlert SK3 S-1 division
-----------------------
44.
JHall85286@aol.com
John W. Hall...I was an ATR2 with VF-194 (CAW-19) aboard the USS Bon Homme
Richard.Served 2 Viet-nam tours with VF-194(from 1963 to 1966)My First
"Skipper" was Cmdr "Billy" Phillips(one HELLUVA Pilot!),then under Cmdr
Robert S. Chew. We did shore duty at Miramar Calif. I am now 59 yrs old
and have very fond memories working on the F8-E..one helluva "bird"! I
have since found 4 of my squadron mates and hope this forum will lead to
more.
Where are all ya "Legendary Red Lighting" guys at ?? Would like to hear
from the Officers also...come -on guys!!
I am currenty searching for ex squadron members (enlisted and officer)..
I have found a few (enlisted) and currently in communication with then
via the internet.
Just a word of "Thanks" for the Honor of serving with you brave and
faithful men and to encourage You and yours to maintain this excellent
web-sit.And, as always,presented in the best of Naval tradition,
With Fraternity and Respect..... John W. Hall
-----------------------
43.
Frank Hicks" fhicks@fiber.net
I have a picture of one of 191's f8's flying along side of a russian
bear would you like a copy? I also have a cruise book . We were on
the ORISKANY WEST PAC 73-74 Commanding Officer CDR Ronald F. Ball
If there is any other information i can supply let me know
AMS2 Hicks
-----------------------
42.
"DAVID BROOKS" ORISKANY@worldnet.att.net
I Served As An Atr2 With Vf194 On The Tico Cva14 And Oriskany Cva34
>From 1966 -1970. Are There Any More Vf194 People Out There?
-----------------------
41.
Tom Harper tom_h@treca.org
I didn't fly 'em, tore them apart and had fun doing it. I was an ADJ in
VFP63 in '69. Really was a good squadron with a lot of "Esrpite de
corps" Was in powerplants div. Tom Harper
-----------------------
40.
VFP-63 was my first duty station after ADJ "A" school. Arrived in March 75
and made the switch to F14's in June 76. Assigned to the Line as Plane
Captain for the Shore Det. The CO at the time was a guy named Hines who
was just released from the Hanoi Hilton. Would like to hear from folks
who were there at the same time. Crusaders Forever!
Carl J. Palermo
cpalermo@mdc.com
-----------------------
39.
Bob Daily AT3
worked on the F8 from 1963 till 1967 ,VU10 in GITMO and VF-62
in Cecil Field and on the SHANGRI-LA.
E-MAIL at rdaily@bellsouth.net.
Nice to see this section on the page.have been visiting for some time
Regards,
Bob Daily
-----------------------
38.
"jwn" jwn@megalink.net
I spent 26 years in the US Navy and 3 Years Trying to maintain the F8's
in VC-10.
I know we weren't under constant fire but we did launch the ready several
times when Castro had his brothers in town. And I did do CVA-43 with VAW
116 in 68-69.
Retired Senior Chief Jim Newton
-----------------------
37.
Spider4B@aol.com
just crusing the net and notice that you were in VFP 63. I was stationed
at NAS Miramar from 1966 through 1970 in the squadron VFP 63. During my
enlistment, I made a West Pac Cruise on the Bon Homme Richard and USS
Hancock.
I was wondering if any of the shipmates were still in contact with each
other.
AMS-2 G.Ingram
-----------------------
36.
"Caulkins, Keith A" Keith_Caulkins@dscc.dla.mil
Thanks Dave for our own site. There are so many others sites for the
Pilotsand such, it's about time we Greasemonkeys and Others got
on-board! I would like to see a "pictures" addition to this site.
If I can find mine, from DaNang '67 & '68, I would be glad to contribute.
I joined with VMF(AW)-235, in Nov. '66. Then rotated with them to
Danang in Feb.'67 thru May'68, when I was transferred to Chulai, to
finish my extended tour. While with 235, I was in the Seat Shop, then
transferred to the Flightline Crew, (flightline needed the help, so I was
"volunteered". I have recently been in e-mail contact with a
couple of my pilots from those days, and would like to get with some
of the other guys, ( Magilla Gorilla, Angelo, G.O., Slime, etc. where
are yous guys?).
Thanks again Dave. I will check on this site often!
Keith "Swift" Caulkins
USMC '64-'68
-----------------------
35.
"Tom LaSota" hondamama@hotmail.com
I have to ask where all the photo's of and about the F8's from VF13 came
from? I served three and one half years with the squadron from 66 thru
69. I was a plane captain till I transferred to ordinance working with
Chief McQuaid. My name is Tom LaSota, please answer if you were either a
pilot or crew member. Have been trying for some time now to contact
members of VF13.
[webmasters note: The VF-13 pix are mine; Tom was one of my plane
captains when I was Line officer]
-----------------------
34.
"McCabe" jdmccabe@worldnet.att.net
Hi my name is Debbie, And I'm looking for VF-154 info (1958-1961). My
father was a PR-3 with this squdron. I was hoping to get info for him.
And maybe join an association, and find some old buddys. Can you help
me? we'll appreciate any info you might give
Thanks Debbie
-----------------------
33.
"Debaecke, Ivan" PERS-801G@PERSNET.Navy.Mil
I can sure reminisce back to my good old days as an aviation ordnanceman
stationed with vf-24. All the mig kills listed for VF-24
was as a result of my involvement loading the f-8c's with 20mm and aim-9
sidewinders for those events. Our sister squadron VF-211
(brand X) did pretty good too on the mig kills. VF-211 would call us
"bite-size" as we had the smaller size red and white checker
scheme painted on the tails of our F-8's. As I said, I helped load the
ordnance for the mig kills that VF-24 attained and I have a few photos
of me and my ordnance LPO AO1 Roberson posing by the ventral fins with
the "stars" (mig-kills). I think that was when we were delpoyed on the
uss hancock cv-19. We also made a cruise on the bon homme richard too.
That was when the forrestal caught on fire. She was supposed to relieve
us then. We would make patrols on dixie and yankee station off the coast
of Nam. Yankee station was where the f-8's would make bar-cap paatrols.
They were loaded with sidewinders. Dixie we had zunis. I wish I could
get a copy of the old last of the gunfighter poster. That was neat.
I now work for bupers here in millington tn. I still feel like I belong
to the navy even though I'm very retired from the navy. Take care.
Ivan "Butch" DeBaecke
NPC-403AE
-----------------------
32.
Reichdav@aol.com
I was in VF-191 from late 1963, until the end of September, 1966.
I was an Aviation Electrician's Mate. I still have my cruise book
from 1964's Good Will Cruise. If I can be of some help with the
squadron's web site
information, please let me know.
Dave Reichard
-----------------------
31.
JHall85286@aol.com
ONE HELLUVA WEB-SITE !!
I served with VF-194 aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard (1963-1966)as an
ATR2 under the command(s) of Capt."Billy" Phillips and Cmdr R.S. Chew
in the 1st Concord Squadron.Served my entire Naval career in VF-194.
I am now 59 yrs of age and I have contacted a couple of my old squadron
mates...went to see my best buddy in Alabama of whom I have'nt seen in
32 yrs! It was GREAT!(He was an ADJ3 in VF-194)
I certainly respect ALL of you Naval fliers...although you guys were
hard on the Avionics gear..I did PLENTY of work on the ASQ17 integrated
communications pkg. and TACAN..
You men did one HELLUVA job over there and I would just like give my
thanks for the Honor of serving with you brave men...God Bless...
-----------------------
30.
John Burgess/Cathy Ferrar lthorse@io.com
Thanks for your web page and a walk down memory lane!
I was an AE-3 serving with VF-211 aboard the USS Hancock during the
cruise of 1973. My tour ended while we were still at the mouth of the
Gulf of Oman in Nov 73. Since then I have been trying to locate a source,
if any exists, for a copy of the cruise book for that period, or any
photos from air ops during ur cruise.
If you have any sources that you could refer me to I would appreciate it.
Tahnks for your help. Respectfully, John Burgess
-----------------------
29.
Mark Douglass mdougla1@ford.com
I have alot of VA-174 information. I have a list of all the
personnel that went to Rosie Roads on 03 Oct 1967. I was attached
to the Maint. Control Area, then to the Mid-Check. This are some
of the people I remember, ADJ1 Don Foulk, AMS Robbie Robertson,
ADJ1 Vince McCann, AME1 Robert Cook,(Lt. Napolli is really somebody
I would love to meet again. We went up in a T-28 for my first check
ride. Some of the memories are still in my head. I left there and
returned to Michigan in 1968. Then I joined the Naval Reserves here
at NAF Mt. Clemens, then it was changed to NARA Mt. Clemens. I will
be retiring on 01 Aug 2000, with a total of 20 years, 3 months, 7 days,
5 hours, 34 minutes, 22 seconds - 555 total days and counting.
Dave my phone here at Ford's is (313) 594-6707, at home it's (734)
844-2471, give me a call when you get a chance. I also have a VA-174
bowling shirt (still mint). And some of the patchs from VF-174, VA-174.
There are also a Master Chief Ron Webb at Mt. Clemens was there in the
1969-1975. And ADJ3 Henry Dudek.
Regards,
Mark Douglass
-----------------------
28.
Randy Kelly thepilot@erols.com
Great page you have here. I just stumbled on to it tonight. I was at
Miramar in VF124, from Mar 65 to Mar 69. I was an AMS2, Plane Captain
and then an instructor where I trained a lot of F8 drivers on the
hydraulics. Great plane, but the damn thing liked to leak, that coffin
panel on the bottom would give you a bath every time it was opened.
Just thought I'd make a comment while thinking of times spent on the
flight line. Again, you have a great web page.
Thanks,
Randy Kelly
-----------------------
27.
howard haddon kenhi@earthlink.net
been surfin the net for years and havn't run across any VMF 334 guys as
of yet! what happened to all the f8 drivers turned out by VMF 334 and
the O boat?
3/61-3/63 VMF-334 El Toro, Yuma, Fallon, North Island, Oriskany
3/63-6/67 Chance Vought (civilian)
always wanted to drive one but settled for fixin em when you guys broke
em! (Cpl USMC Avionics)
visited with the Oriskany on Mare Island last Friday (10-9-98)
took lots of photos of the rusting old lady- very depressing!
anyone else want depressed? just ask- will sent photo!
Howard Haddon (real estate appraiser now)
344 North Encinitas Ave
Monrovia, CA 91016
tele 626 358-0502
fax 626 358-0878
-----------------------
26.
FRPRES@aol.com
I had the privilege of serving on two WestPac cruses with VFP-63, 66-67
on the Coral Sea and 67-68 on the Tico. and am a hard core "Super
Hoover" fan. It would certainly be nice to hook up with some of my
former shipmates and tell a sea story or two. How's chances of seeing
a VFP-63 link in the near future?
Keep up the good work, I will visit the site often in hopes of connecting.
Regards,
J. B. Lauer (ATN-2)
-----------------------
25.
"JAMES E. SMITH" minncam@earthlink.net
Just read the home page on VF 53.
I wish to inform you that VF 53 was my squadron on the USS Kearsarge and
I was a plane captain with them and we had the FJ3s CDR James Pariseau
was the CO and LTCDR Fields was the XO . We were stations at Moffet
Field in 56 and returned to Moffett after the cruise and we then were
disbanded and we became a training command squadron with the F8Us.
We deployed on the Kear in 57 with CAG three and the Banshee squadron
was VF 124 not the VF 53 I have the book to prove it and I can scan some
pix from the book if you need them. Also there at that time was VA 24
Cougars and a VFAW3 squadron and a squadron of ADs.
This may shock some folks but when we returned form WESPAC on 57 on
the USS Kearsarge CVA 33 we did not do much flying and it was a "along
for the ride" trip. On that trip back home stuck away in hanger bay #2
was a F8! It was sealed up form the salt corrosion and it never moved
from the day it was lifted onboard in Youkuska. I think that I have a
colored slid of it. I'll have to look. I often wondered about that AC
and what it was doing there but nobody seemed to know? I was a plane
captian with VF 53 at the time and we had left ALL of our FJ3-4s back
at Atsigi so it was a leasurly ride back across the big blue pond.
Does anyone know anything of this AC. Again, I''l have to look in my
slide collection of that era.
Jim
minncam@earthlink.net
-----------------------
24.
"DAVID L CHEYNEY" davidc94@glenwoodcs.com
Dear Sirs I am a retired Senior Chief In 1969 i was attached to VF162
at N.A.S. Miamar San Diego. Went on a Vietmam Cruise on the USS
Ticonderoga CVA14 any information about this squardon would be
appreciated.
ADCS retired.
-----------------------
23.
George Harris Gmwharris@localaccess.com
I have visited your site before and remembered seeing the picture by
Paul Skarlatos. I was not an F-8 pilot, but was an enlisted man in
VF-53. Paul Skarlatos was its last skipper. I have fond memories of
him and have always wondered what had happened to him. I was in contact
with Kent Kaiser, Dean Kaiser's son, for awhile and he mentioned that
Cmdr Skarlatos had been ill or something. Do you have any information
on him. To me as a blackshoe in the aviation world he was a great human
being and officer.
Also, do you have anyway of locating some of the officers of VF-53 at
the time of its decommissioning? Specifically, then LT. Tom Smisek.
Thank you,
George Harris, former PN2
-----------------------
22.
"Gary Woodham" gdub@digitalexp.com
I was in VF 162 when it was formed at Cecil Field Florida in 1960. I
cannot find any information concerning the Sqadron or it's men. Please
advise me of any information that might help me contact any former
squadron members.
I was in the A.E. shop when I left the squadron in Sept. 1963.
Please forward me any pilots names you have which were in VF162 and any
maintanance mens names and addresses that you have,it sure would be nice
to talk to some of the old squadron members. I appreciate any information
that you can send me.
I am now living in Fla. and would like to attend
any get togethers VF162 might have.
Gary Woodham
-----------------------
21.
mcrider@tvsonline.net (Wagner, Rich)
During 1965 and 1966 I was assigned to VF-111 as a Plane Captain. We
were deployed on the USS Midway and than the USS Oriskany. Any
information in where I can find anything about this squadron and the
people that were members of it at that time will be appreciated. We
are thinking of having a reunion if enough interest is out there.
Thanks, Rich Wagner
-----------------------
20.
"Lyle Stults" lstults@prodigy.net
Hi,
What a stroll down memory lane, brings a tear to this old man's eyes!
Would much appreciate having the address to the roster. Attached are
three of the E-Mails I've received already, use for my authentication.
I think I should qualify as a 'Maintainer".
-----------------------
19.
Tbolt50FA@aol.com
I served with VFP63 out of NAS Miramar from 1970 to 1972 and it was real
nice to see the photo of one of my old birds on your site. I still keep a
little corner shelf with some photos and a model of my Crusader and the
squadron patch in my home. It was just one of the many fine Squadrons of
that era and I am glad to have been a part of it. Keep up the good work.
Tbolt50FA
VFP63 USN (R)
-----------------------
18.
John Skulavik skulway@hb.quik.com
On the USS Oriskany May 1965 to March 1966, Col. Ludden's Lancer's had
several Centurions. Col. Ludden (Purple Heart) Squadron Commander,
Col. E. J. Rutty (ex-Blue Angel fifth man), Col. Sexton, Col. Chaimson,
Lt Pyle, Lt. Damerosh, and most notable Col. Harlan P. Chapman (POW
in the Hanoi Hilton 8 years). I was in Avionics (bench and flight line)
on the APQ-94 Radar in this squadron with 14 brand new F8E's. Yes,
Photo Beanie some planes were fitted with 4 Sidewinder 9M pylons wing
and fuselage. These planes flew fighter sorties. Other planes were
fitted with wing pylons for 2,000 ponds bombs for road wrecking sorties.
We did it all in City Hall (Hanoi that is)! President Johnson and Mc
the Knife wouldn't let us do the job right so we lost Col. Chapman to
Charlie for 8 severely painful years. What a sacrifice!
Thank You Col. Chapman, I was your plane captain in Kaneohe Bay and
I'll never forget you.
John Skulavik (Skully)
Sgt. USMC 2005135
If you erver want more info about F8
aircraft I probably know the answer. I also have video's made of my 8mm
camera shots I took from the 07 level on the Oriskany. This kind of
data may still be classified. I have crash footage, planes being pushed
over the side, rockets pods dumping rockets right down the angle deck.
Even Art Avores fatal crash off the starboard catapult on Dixie Station.
We once spent 45 straight days in 24 hour flight operations on Yankee
Station. Admiral Stockdale was shotdown during this Oriskany Tour and
Jerry Denton was shotdown 18 July 65, 33 years ago. I sent him an e-mail
this morning, what an inspiration he is! He makes me proud to be an
American.
Skully
-----------------------
17.
RWZobel@aol.com
I was a AZAN with VF-191 (NAS MIIRAMAR)during the period of 74-75.
Bill Zobel, Bakersfield, Ca.
-----------------------
16.
GGood111@aol.com
I was a metal smith ams-2 in VF-62 the Boomerangs
from 1964 to 1967.
Galen G Good
12630 county road 153
Cologne, MN 55322
e-mail GGood111@aol.com
-----------------------
15.
DAPFORD11@aol.com
I was an ADJ2 on F-8s from 1967-1970. I was in VF-194 for 2 WestPac cruises. I
was line P.O. for most of the time, but have a pretty good knowledge of the
systems. I became an A&P mechanic for Lockheed after the service. I no longer
work with aircraft, but if I can answer any questions feel free to ask.
Thanks
Dale R. Setford .
-----------------------
14.
David Eyer deyer@home.com
I was an AT in VFP-63 from 78- 81.
My detachment (DET5) served on the Nimitz out of Norfolk in 79-80 before,
during and after the Iranian hostage crisis. RF8G's flew recon for the
hostage rescue attempt. That year, Nimitz set a record for on-station
time in the Indian Ocean, 144 days.
The RF8G's onboard were the first F8's to operate from the extended
length catapult system on the newer class carriers. There were extensive
engineering examinations performed to ensure structural integrity of
the aging superstructure. There were concerns about the stress on the
airframe and also the potential for early lift or fishtailing. The
concerns turned out to be unfounded.
I have some patches and unique photos of F8's, carrier groups, and AH-
64's. I have the 79-80 USS Nimitz cruise book that includes information
about "The Final Countdown" that was filmed during the early part of our
stay on the Nimitz.
I also have a F8 Crusader "Aviation Publication" (ISBN 0-8306-8541-3)
that has some interesting photos and information.
My ex-XO from VFP-63 lives in the area. I see him occasionally. He was
noted for a number of punch-outs from F8's.
-------------------
13.
Stan Friedman Stan.Friedman@us.coopers.com
Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. (US)
Tel: (602) 280-1808 Fax: (602) 280-1999
Internet: stan.friedman@us.coopers.com
I was on the 69 cruise. I was an AZ3. I am interested in locating AZ1
Williams.
-------------------
12.
Dave Jones jones@iwvisp.com
AME1 (ret) former VF-53Iron Angel
------------------------
11.
George Harris gmwharris@localaccess.com
I was an enlisted blackshoe with VF-53 just prior to its decommissioning
in 1971. I have always wondered what happened to some of the officers I
served under. I noted that you had a picture labeled LCmdr Paul Skalatos
in your collection. He was my last CO and one heck of a human being.
Do you know his whereabouts? {Yes. Paul suffered a stroke earlier
this year; last report is he is recovering and hopes to make the next
F-8 reunion.}
-------------------
10.
Dale R. Setford DAPFORD11@aol.com
I was line PO for VF194 (Legendary Red Lightnings) on 2 Nam cruises. The
carriers were Ticonderoga 1968, and Oriskany 1969.
---------------------
9.
Lloyd Gran lloydg@erskine.means.net
I was a member of VF-24 from 1971 to 1974. I was an airframes mechanic
(AMS), made two WestPacs and have many memories of F8 maintenance and
the problems therein.
I checked out the Kalamazoo Museum link and, lo and behold! 150904.
I worked on that bird when it belonged to VF-24. Out of the 1000 or
1200 F8's made only a handful remain, and to find one that I actually
worked on got me to wonder what I could contribute to it's
restoration/preservation.
{Lloyd has provided KZoo with a great deal of help since making this
contact; Thanks, Lloyd!}
--------------------
8.
{no name supplied} dofatr@osd.pentagon.mil
I was assigned to VFP-306 as an AME.
----------------------
7.
Bob Martin squeak48@tdo.infi.net
Even tho I did't fly the crusader I worked on it for several years
at NAS Mirimar. I was in VF-124 stationed at Mirimar.
--------------------
6.
Larry Auborne larrya@tsixroads.com
LARRY AUSBORNE
60319 HATLEY-DETROIT RD
AMORY,MS.38821
VFP 63 1968 thru july 1970
I was line trouble shooter and high power run up. I enjoyed
it a great deal. My rank was petty officer 3rd class.
--------------------
5.
Al nicholas sue@oceana.net
I was an AT2 in VU_1 in 1962-63. We had several F8U's. The CO was CDR
Geore Smith. We were based at NAS Barbers Point.
----------------------
4.
Al Kotrla kotrla@mastnet.net
I was an aircraft electrician (among other duties) on Marine Corps F8's
for a few years. I worked on F8U-1, 1E, 1P, 2, 2N & 2NE, most of that on
the F8U-2NE (later known as the F8E). I served with VMF(AW)-235 in
Danang flying F8E's. We dropped 2,000 pound bombs (one under each wing)
from that glorious "fighter". VMF(AW)-235 rotated out of country in May
68 and as far as I know was the last Marine Corps F8 squadron in combat,
making it truly the last of the Marine Corps "gunfighters". It was my
last privileged service with F8's.
I have what I think is an interesting story about an F8 incident. In
February '64 I served with VMF(AW)-323, MAG-11 in Taiwan on "Operation
Backpack", one of those "joint military" operations. We were on a
Taiwan airbase named Ping Tung. The Marine ground support units were
alerted that a Navy F8 had launched off a carrier and, during his cat
shot, lost his tire/wheel off his right main landing gear. The Marines
had a land based Mobile Arresting Gear (MoRest) set up on the runway for
emergency purposes. Evidently a command decision was made that we would
catch the F8 on shore rather than have it return to the flattop. Crash
Crews foamed the MoRest area of the runway while the pilot contemplated
his situation. By the time preparations were completed and the pilot
collected his thoughts, we had a sizeable group of spectators on hand
to witness this event. This pilot was awsome!!! On his first try, he
landed on the left main gear, caught the MoRest cable perfectly, the
nose gear compressed down with the typical force, and only as the
arresting gear began to retract the aircraft backwards did the right
main gear touch deck....and neither wing tip ever touched deck.
Awsome, I'm telling you. Marine structural maintenance crews determined
that the gear experienced only minor scraping damage. They put on a
tire/wheel and the F8 flew back to its carrier. I'm sure this incident
pales in light of many others, but it just left all of us in a sense of
awe at that pilot's skill. Needless to say, I was impressed!!
I really loved the F8 and I believe I actually suffered depression when I
had to "advance" to the F4 Phantom. My personal high was my experience
with Marine Reserves at NAS Dallas. Seein's how we kept working while
the pilots were back at their "daytime" jobs, we were always short of
pilots to taxi birds to the compass rose (I know they loved that chore)
and high power ramp. I was authorized to taxi F8's to the rose and high
power ramp. I loved strapping that baby down and testing the afterburner!!
Al Kotrla
Angleton, TX
-----------------------
3.
Tom French pilotfighter@aiinc.com
Now "AQCS RET" X-VF-24 "MAINTAINER"
------------------------
2.
John J. McKenna mcke1orio@verizon.net
AT on Det 33-60, VFP-62, USS Intrepid. O-in-C was
Charles Price ( Price's Pups ). We had 3 F8U-1P (no dang "RF-8A"!)
Crusaders...146869 AF-925, 146871 AF-926, and 146872 AF-927. Fastest,
biggest aircraft for that Med Cruise, and no guns! We cruised the Med from
4 Aug 1960 to 17 Feb 1961.
Your nice photo just happens to be "my" old 926 - 'course, then it was
nice and new...
-----------------------
-----------------------
1.
James C. Shearer sshea@sunny.ncmc.cc.mi.us
Aviation Electricians Mate in VFP-63 in '69 and '70.
I seem to recollect that John Glenn Drove one of my squadron's planes
cross crounty to set a speed record of some sort. I recall seeing a
brass plate on one of the planes in Miramar. (P.W.O. note: That is
correct; see the "Records" page on the site. Sadly, this a/c became
fish food; don't have the specifics handy, but will dig up someday).
Never lost my love of the plane.
-----------------------
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