Paul, I am sorry to say the camper doesn't have that and this year I am just going to set up a tent w/generator & small frig. Also bringing propane & a camp stove while hoping for nice wheather. Not sure what Gale has in his camper?
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 20:20:51 (MDT)
KEN; do you have an oven in your camper and if so is it usable? the wife says the pie thing is possible if she can find some way to heat them.everything will be premade just need to cook them,so it wouldn't mess up the camper. let me know. paul
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 18:56:54 (MDT)
Gale, I was talking to Mark about making it to Kokomo some time, and maybe after I retire I'll be able to make one. Only a couple more years to go. That is if it's still going on then.....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 16:54:43 (MDT)
WOW, this is all starting to make my mouth water..
Ken Strong Jr
Lafayette, IN USA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 09:37:14 (MDT)
the apple pies nice and warm fresh from the oven with ice cream. mmmmmmmmmmmmmm
paul
lasalle, USA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 08:30:52 (MDT)
i believe the peanut butter can be made with splenda if anyone has sugar concerns.she said she would make a couple apple pies for the saturday nite feast. ken; do you have an oven in your camper? we could bring them frozen or she is willing to make them on site.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 08:21:04 (MDT)
Paul,Have your wife make me the same cookies that she made you to help loose some weight. I love all cookies.all,all bring them on.
jim <dustoff>
Shiloh, IL USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 21:52:47 (MDT)
Oh Greatr, thats all I need Paul. I have gained 40 pounds since last year. Bummer man. Been eating to good.......buuuttttttt, if I had to vote, I vote chocolate chips. I not sure when I will be headed back. Like I said, have to Coldwater early Saterday morn to be in Cinci for the wedding. I will probably leave earlier the that Paul.......Robbie, I love your post about the love for your country man...... I love you all.............
Mark
USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 20:52:41 (MDT)
it depends on wether mark will be there around 7 friday nite. if so i will have the wife make 5 doz for him to take home. so far i've got 2 oatmeal rasin and 1 chocolate chip and 1 peanut butter.i will make sure she makes at least 2-3 doz for each vote. so there will be some peanut butter.i have lost 30 pounds in the last 6 months due to diabetes medication and going to the gym. might be able to get her to make a couple of pies for saturday evening also.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 20:24:11 (MDT)
Darn it Paul, here I am trying to lose weight and you're wanting me to vote on cookies!!!!Actually, I have lost 'bout 18# since the 1st of May, but, I'm not really on a diet. I've been walking at least 2 miles a day. My BP is down to 125/68 soooooo.....I guess the healthiest would be oatmeal raisin! Of course,I'm sure the brownies are great and my oh my, I bet the peanut butter are.........................MAN! Do I get Mark's share of the cookies?
Gale
USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 19:44:22 (MDT)
Paul if I had a pick it is Oatmeal Rasin. Guys I guess I am cooled down some more with the systems we have to deal with. Guess none of them want to deal with us as the first thing I was told at the hearing was that nothing the VA says about my disabilities matters. One thing I did want to mention before was when I was digging around I came accross my flight records. I didn't need it for the VA but it did show orders from the 129th as a 67N2F with a few others on them. That was cut in the fall of 1972 if anyone wants copies of that or the Air Medal Orders. Guys counting the days.
Ken Strong Jr
Lafayette, IN USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 19:10:31 (MDT)
I sent the 509 site ,the you "tube video", that the ROKs made,of them and the 129th, doing CAs and other things.Most of you have seen it on the ROK site.It now has a link at the 509 site as well.Those are some gracious folks over there...if you guys are drading thi, thanks for our support,from all of us.
alvis
USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 15:43:14 (MDT)
Gale; i don't have your cookie vote yet as a matter of fact i only have kal's. come on guys the wife wants to know.the list is peanut butter, chocolate chip,oatmeal rasin, sugar,chocolate chip oatmeal, brownies or snickerdoodles.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 15:27:29 (MDT)
Once again....the dates for Kokomo (that's Kokomo, In) is Sept 18 -21, 2008. Just stop in and say hello. We won't keep you long. South of Kokomo to St Rd 26 ,east about 10 miles..can't miss it. look for the 129th flag & the Lane Field banner on the North side of the location.
Gale
USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 14:37:51 (MDT)
Hey Robbie, we wish you could make Kokomo some year.........we miss ya! Rainer, sorry about your Mom passing brother..........hope you & Dee can make it. Debbie & I are supposed to be in P.C. Fla a week from today....iffen the damned storms would stay away. C'mon Gustav, Hanna....give me a break. All I wanna do do is lay on the beach, drink a few brewskies and eat some seafood for a few days!!!!!! Flight, Kokomo is open to all....I hope some newbies will show up! Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 14:26:56 (MDT)
Bruno, I don't know the layout of Ft. Hood, so i'm not sure where you were, but we were close to the back of the fort. I was in D btry 6/92 arty. It was a self propelled 8" howitzer unit. I got out in July 71. Had to make up some time for me and my cousin going awol when we were at Ft. Rucker. Kind of a long story....Mark, yep I just put that flag pole in last Sunday. I think it's higher than it's supposed to be, but I figured I would make it as tall as my love for the country. Ray, it was nice talking to you the other day. I hope you prove the dr's wrong and live a long and happy life. Tell Gail I said hi...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 08:44:51 (MDT)
Talked to Ray this afternoon. He sure is in a pit. Sure do love the lil' guy....Man.....he sounds terrible. Says he has lost the faith..........
mark
USA - Friday, August 29, 2008 at 21:03:16 (MDT)
Ray sorry to hear of your problems and will call you soon. I have had a bad couple days starting Wed for the hearing with Social Security. After three years I was glad to finaully get my day in front of the judge till the MD started talking. He had no clue what he was talking about and after reading through all my medical records over the weekend & taking notes on things that backed me up. I was really upset and set there waiting for my turn to ask him a question which he didn't know what I was talking about. Than the Judge pointed out he had to leave to go to another hearing. After all that time I expected to have someone really look through the records and know what he was talking about or at least be able to ask him questions. If you guys remember back in the old days at the VA if your were in Vietnam it meant you were messed up and had a drug problem. I thought they were getting over that until I got to spend time reading my records. They even ran a background check to see if I had any charges for drugs or DUIs, etc. So I had very pointed and repeated info buried in about a thousand pages of records. Brothers we are either nuts or were not, but the system seems to put up a road block at every turn. I am ready for Kokomo more than ever and hope as many who might make it can show up.
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Friday, August 29, 2008 at 20:41:20 (MDT)
Hi Gang.. I just talked to Ray and things are still the same.. Mark, Ray is taking calls and his phone numbe is posted a few posts before this one. Everyone have a great holiday... L8r.... Kal...>>>
Kal 67/68 <n8auu (at) email dot com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Friday, August 29, 2008 at 10:54:47 (MDT)
Ray, I really enjoyed talking to you the other day. I will get the list to you as soon as I can. things have been a mess around here for a couple days, like today I had to make a part to get my pick-up back on the road not even the junk yards had one. as for the bulldog on our birds. I made a comment about it looking like the GA. Bulldog when I got to the 129th and was told we had permission from them to use it on our birds. so we must have had a letter in the company orderly room at one time saying we could use it. but then I got there in 69 and I know we had it on the birds long before that. so I doubt ANYONE has a copy of the letter anymore. seems to me they would give permission to use it at least as long as the company was active... ??? have a good time at Kokomo. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Friday, August 29, 2008 at 00:38:25 (MDT)
Robbie I was HHC 2Bn 67th Armor on Battaion Ave over by the East gate. I got to Ft Hood in Nov of 70 until about May of 71. I got "levied" to Nam. Where were you At Bro?
Bruno E Sanchez
Laredo, Tx USA - Thursday, August 28, 2008 at 09:14:00 (MDT)
hi all i called kall frist to tell him i for got how toget back on my msm te i told him whtthe dr sid, i guess ididnt post here for i know most of you have enoughr on your plate i go to the perry pt hospital in d ,i think you go there to ken, do you know a dr soovere.i see him a lot.he is treating for somethin igo back for ore tests in nov. i called rob last week. i try to call people. i been reading how you ttuck drives have it. i dont quit under stand hat elvis ment he hadto adjust his load, did they want you go in side and re load it. i wached a movie called ice road truckes have any of you thougt of that, juat wondering.i do know driving a truck is hard, with all the nuts pulling out in front of you. i also see one going down a steep mt, lots oftrns, i dont know ho he did i pray for you all my brothers.alvis if you pass any where near bel air have de grace if you got time call # is 410 836 3319 that gose for any one.wll i cant sit long my legs are so numb i cant feel them but always a brother ray gently i wrote you but i know you are busy take care andmay you have a safe holiday.kal i keep working on the msn.pete i call you soon a brother always ray
ray <stilwating>
MD USA - Thursday, August 28, 2008 at 08:53:46 (MDT)
....Ohhhhh, nict,nict Robbie...Hey Robbie, nice photo of you buy the flag pole. Did ya just put it up? Also great photo o9f your daughter and grandson.........Love ya man. Rainer, Sorry to hear about your mum....................Man, Ray must be in dire starights. His he talkung calls Kal?...........See all in Kokomo........always a brother
Mark
USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 at 21:04:21 (MDT)
Hey gang, aint this a story about a Huey that was with the 129th.............................
Mark
USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 at 20:59:22 (MDT)
I had some window pane at Ft. Hood in 71... Whooooeee what a trip.
RObbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 at 15:33:44 (MDT)
I just picked up some book on Vietnam 7ea for pennys,will bring them to kokomo,W/me. sure you will enjoy them.
Jim <Dustoff>
shiloh, IL USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 at 13:01:13 (MDT)
kal; your vote is duly noted. anybody else? no window pane this year.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Tuesday, August 26, 2008 at 19:12:20 (MDT)
Thanks for the info Alex.. I have talked to Ray a couple times today and things have taken a turn for the worse!.. His Dr says he has Parkinson's now and he is having problems with major pain and memory..Big switch from a couple of weeks ago!... Good to see you will be there for a couple days Mark!!. I plan on Thursday and Friday too. Sorry to hear about Rainer's mom and his computer problems. Seems like when it rains, it pours...Lets hope the WX is nice for Kokomo!!.. OH, B4 I forget.. Paul, even though I won't get to eat a lot of them cookies, my choice is Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter.. Well, thats it for now. Everyone have a great holiday weekend and I hope to see a lot of you in Kokomo!! Love and Brotherhood... C U L8r.. Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu (at) email dot com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Tuesday, August 26, 2008 at 14:52:28 (MDT)
Well Rainer can't get on line with his cumputer. I think it's just for the 129th page??I talked to him last friday. And found out that his Mom had passed way earlier in the week. Kal, Ray said his msn is down and he couldn't talked on it. Been a busy week. Autozone decided to change managers. So, I don't know how it will affect my time off in the next few weeks. Aways A Brother!!
Alex
Collierville, TN USA - Tuesday, August 26, 2008 at 13:10:37 (MDT)
Boy he's windy!!;o) ....Glad you can make it Mark.
Gale
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 21:45:58 (MDT)
I should of used yellow/black thread for the "257" though. Next one I will. Now at LIDS the hats are pretty salty, so that is why I suggest that you look for a local HS team near by that may use the same logo. Also found a hat around here that just had the word BULLDGS on the front and hat my friend sew one of the 129th little pathes on the side of that one also...................
Mark
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 20:04:32 (MDT)
The guy at LIDS told me that the BULLDOG was a registered trademark of the colleg......I said fhuuee pal, I can show you phots of helicopters from 1969 in Vietnam with that bulldog on it..........stealers..............;-))))............always a brother..
Mark
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 20:00:28 (MDT)
Hey 2nd Platoon Bulldogs. I got an cool Idea for you. Cobras, I love you guys also, but you don't see to much BULLDOG stuff out there. Dee and I were shopping in Dayton the other wekend and we went into a shop called LIDS. No, No, they didnt sell pot there. They sold college hats. I ask if they had any with a BULLDOG on and the guy showed me one from the Georgia Bulldogs. I'll be danged if the BULLDOG doesnt look just like the ones you see on the 2nd platton ship in the GALLERY section. Google it and check it out. I bought one and had 129th AHC sewed on one side and "257" sewed on the other. The hat that the bulldog has on has a black G on it. So I bought a red "paint pen". You can cover the G by applying the red and letting it dry and doing it several times and after a while it will be all red. Then i bought a white "paint pen" and etched 129 in the same manner on the hat that the bulldog has on just like it looks in some of the photos on here. looks pretty cool The hat also has a big G on the back and you know them little patches that Phil sent over for the reunion, well I had a friend sew it over the g and it covers it perfectly. I took some photos of it and as soon as I finish this I will post them on the 129th YAHOO web site. Check it out. Also the town of Celina close by here, their mascat is a bulldog. I found a Pin that has BULLDUGS writtin on it that looks like the pins that the Aussie sells at some of our gatherings that have names of cities in Vietnam that you can buy so display where you were..............always a brother.............
Mark
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 19:54:16 (MDT)
Gate fee is no problem. Just glad to be a part of the 129th. I would do anything for you guys. I love you all................see ya there. Oh, If I cant make it back over there Sunday It would be Ok that someone could take the supplies home till next year. All of it except my 2009 model ULTIMATE ROCKER. That will go with me when I leave Saterday. :-)))).............always a brother..............
Mark
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 19:33:02 (MDT)
Mark, that is great and I am sure we can somehow pack it all up with either me or Gale. I am glad to know you can do that or we would be looking kind of lonely setting out there. I was going to have to get a hold of the guy again and will explain what is going on so don't think there will be any problems. I also scanned them all before mailing you guys the forms, but they might still charge you the gate fee. I also plan on getting a big enough tent to have extra people in. Gale is next to me so plan on setting the generator next to his camper. Great news Mark!
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 19:10:46 (MDT)
Ok gang. heres the plan. I will be at Kokomo Thursday to set things up and will stay over night that night and head back to Coldwater Friday sometime. That way at least I can be with some of you. Kenny even thought the paper says that I have the camp site for Friday and sat, cant I set things up Thursday???? Hope so........I will bring everthing that I had last year such as the netting. Copy.........Problem is, I will either have to drive back over there Sunday to get it all, which is ok, or could one of you guys take it all home until next year.....Let me know what ya think..........
Mark
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 18:45:12 (MDT)
I have plenty of tarps, I was thinking of the netting that Mark had last year. Where do you get that? We don't have an Army surplus around here anymore.
Gale
USA - Monday, August 25, 2008 at 06:39:29 (MDT)
Gale,I have some tarps and may have a tent,but will need help to set it up,if I can get it in my jeep.
jim <dustoff>
shiloh, IL USA - Sunday, August 24, 2008 at 21:31:20 (MDT)
gale;i can proabably scare up a couple of tarps.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Sunday, August 24, 2008 at 19:31:03 (MDT)
Does anyone have any camouflage netting for Kokomo? I can bring a "piece" of tubular tent for some shelter.
Gale
USA - Sunday, August 24, 2008 at 18:00:34 (MDT)
Mark that breaks my heart to not have you there, Gale will have the generator. I am not sure about the site Mark has but it paid for already and I would hate to loose it so will stake it out. Jim the 429 West is the main site but guess it will look kind of empty depending on what Gale brings. Need a big flag pole and something we can set under if any ideas? I am bringing a tent this year and have a small frig to put in it. Mark's spot is 632 West next to Gales in the back. So could park vehicles there to keep them out of the way. Mark we will really miss you not being in Kokomo...
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 16:48:14 (MDT)
That is a bummer Mark! You can't even make it for a while? I guess we can use my "Lane Field" sign instead of the 129th flag. Man.............whose gonna eat your share of the cookies????? Judith...you and Joe better plan on being there!! Ken, I need to know for sure if you will have the generator there.
Gale
USA - Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 14:07:10 (MDT)
Dang and I was gonna proudly show off my NEW ROCKING chain. Some of you will recall that old wicker chain I had that fit me like a old tennis shoe. Well, I had it duct taped, held together with wire, Used rope on it once and Gorilla glue...........it died on my the other week. (sniff,sniff.:-(,..I let it set on the front porch for a spell to have a veiwing for the ole' gal. Then I cremated her. Wicker to wicker, ashes to ashes...sniff,sniff..:-(........BUT..........I will put on the 129th YAHOO site a pictture of my latest invention, revolusionary design for a rocker. I got a hold of a CE seat out of a Huey and I sayed the rockers off the old one. Rigged some carriage bolts to work as the mounts so the sliding couler and fingers of the bottom of the legs of the huey seat would work and "VA WAL LA".............will have the photos of it up on YAHOO in a minute..........Now guys, when I do get the chance to be around you again and I have this chair with me.......let's see...........I wouldnt charged you all that much to sit in it for 4 minutes....................always a brother...........
Mark
USA - Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 12:45:15 (MDT)
It has just reserficed in my dumb brain that I will "not" be able to make Kokomo this year. We will be attending a wedding of a very close friends of ours daughter. They were our back yard niehgbors at the old house in town and the lil' girl was at our house as much as she was hers. Same age as our daughter Stephanie and they paled around all through school. Steph is in the wedding and Dee is the only mother invited to the shower. She's like a forth daughter to us. Sorry bout this, I am really gonna miss Kokomo. I love it there. So Kenny Strong??/ What do you want me to do with the campsite prepaid paper?????.................man.............bummer.................
Mark
USA - Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 12:26:35 (MDT)
pulling out till the 18th,see you folks then.
alvis
USA - Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 05:31:02 (MDT)
Guys and Gals; the cookie selection is as follows,peanut butter,chocolate chip,oatmeal rasin,sugar,chocolate chip oatmeal,brownies,and snickerdoodles.Please cast your vote between now and the weekend before kokomo. i will keep a running tab.sorry none of the alice b toklas variety.we will try to satisfy all votes. i told the wife she had to make 5 dozen just for mark for saturday nite.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 19:25:10 (MDT)
RIP Major Freeman. A giant of Army Aviation is gone and on short final.............http://www.thedonovan.com/archives/2008/08/someone_you_sho_12.html
Larry Kwiatkowski
Simi Valley, CA USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 14:15:54 (MDT)
Paul, we don't care what time you get there..............just don't forget the "cookies!" Hehheheehehe.
Gale
USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 11:33:47 (MDT)
the wife and i won't be able to get there till friday evening about 6-7 pm
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 10:59:38 (MDT)
Hey Susan Eidson, you still out there??............
Mark
USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 10:15:53 (MDT)
Jim, Ken will have to give you that info. I have 630W and he is supposed to have 3 more.......4 together.
Gale
USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 07:41:06 (MDT)
Gale, I will be in Kokomo on the 17th,Wed afternoon and will sit on the 129th site on the morning of 18th all day till you get there.What is the site number?
Jim <Dustoff>
Shiloh, IL USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 21:55:32 (MDT)
Today,at VA,dang doctor grabed a glove and waned to stick his finger in my butt. Guy didnt even offer to buy me lunch first.Man,has things gone down hill.
alvis
USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 18:35:03 (MDT)
Ken, I plan on being there Thursday eve also and no one's takin' our spots this year! Are you gonna have your generator for sure?
Gale
USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 16:49:33 (MDT)
Hay all I will be trying to get to Kokomo late Thursday afternoon the 18th to set up and mark our sites for the weekend. They were going to try and get the internet set up but I have not gotten the chance to check yet. Other wise I will trying to get on line through my cell like last year and post the latest of what is going on. Alvis, will talk to you there and see if we can come up with something. I know the 129th showed me as a mechanic too and know they didn't keep up on the records very well. The Air Medals were still the trick for me. Maybe I can check what you have and than write Rep. Buyer myself on your behalf.
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 15:13:29 (MDT)
Geeze Gale!! That wasn't me..Ha.. But I do remember the essense that drifted thru, more than once.. And true, I hope to be there at least Friday evening and will have to pull out early Saturday. Ya Fred, good discription for Kokomo.. and I wish I could stay longer but ya gotta do what ya gotta do.. Welcome to all the new visitors and come on back as we are all here for the long haul.. Take care gang.. C Ya in Kokomo... Kal...>>>
Kal .. 67/68 <n8auu (at) email dot com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 14:24:30 (MDT)
The Mid America show is business for me-----I am the E. US Regional Mgr for Hypertech and will be working the weekend there-----May even bring the "Wide Body" Vette the company owner has-----still debating that one the $$ tag is over 147K---may not want to take a chance hauling it up there and i'm sure plenty of others attending anyway---(mabey even one or two of those)-------------Will see if I can squeeze time before the show to cruise over to Kokomo for a few hours-----------------Later-------------Gotta head for Atlanta to work another show this weekend.------------------Snoopy
Gary Woodward <advgary@bellsouth.net>
Memphis, Tn USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 09:45:23 (MDT)
Hey Roger Strong, Fill me in on your details of your trip back to Nam. I might be interested in going with you if you wouldnt mind. Hi everybody else!!!!....good to see the new guys. WELCOME HOME..........always a brother,
Maek
USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 08:27:48 (MDT)
Alvis, beautiful description of Kokomo. Only you left out one thing......the toxic fumes that seem to linger around the campfire that no one takes credit for. Of course, it may not be as bad this 'cause Kal won't be there for long..............heehhehehee!!
Gale
USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 08:27:04 (MDT)
Hey Gary, if you are in to Vettes, you're probably familiar with the SR-2's!? The one that was named "Purple People Eater" was owned (new) by a friend of mine right here in my home town. If you read any history of it, Vern Kispert should ring a bell.I think he is in Texas now & I've lost track of the "PPE." My Buddies & I were just discussing this yesterday. Gale
Gale
Clinton, In USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 08:23:02 (MDT)
what ou going to be doing there Gary? Vettes are,by far,ver pleasing to my eye.I know ome folk that are going.
alvis
USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 06:54:08 (MDT)
Gary,you will be about 60 mile or so ,west of Terra Haute,which is near Gale and Debbie.120 miles west of Indy,where mself and Ron Paye live.about 60 miles north of indy,lies Kokomo.
alvis
USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 06:52:00 (MDT)
Hi everyone---------I noticed that Kokomo is Sept 20-21 this year-----Exactly where is it located?---------------I will be in Effingham,Il (Sept 17th thru 22nd)and attending the Mid America Corvette show on the 19th-21st (working and doing classes)but will be staying in Mt Vernon (nearest open Hilton brand)60+ miles away.---------It may be close enough to pass thru and say hello.--------------------Best to all---------------------"Snoopy"
Gary Woodward <garywdsi@yahoo.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 04:46:13 (MDT)
plastic chairs,tree stumps,a campfire and swirling smoke. Darkness,so many stars.Cool night air,hugging a jacket close,moving closer to the fire. The smoke,dancing from friend to friend,ghostly faces of those that arent here,but are,perhaps glempsed in the smoke.far away laughter,and close by,heard over the sound of quiet converation, of very comfortable friends.Outsiders have left,taking the bullshit and quilt with them.All that remains,is a circle of friends and comrades.The flick of a lighter,the "pop a top" of a cold beer,gentle kidding,shared laughter.Worn out old men,with a young warriors heart still beating in their chest.Shared food,coffee,beer,lives,memories.Comfy,warm,fuzzy, friendhips. KOKOMO,be there.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 21:23:01 (MDT)
Alvis, They speak excelent English and they write it too.They already have a job lined up. Selling embroderied Base ball caps and putting designs and letters on them Like[dustoff].They also do lettering on Bowling shirts with designs.The friend in Maine also worked for my company.He and his family already have a House for Mr Chong,lee and family. My former Company Financed the move to American.I am sure that he will be well cared for. thanks anyway Brother.
Jim <dustoff>
Shiloh, IL USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 19:05:32 (MDT)
Thanks for the links to other sites. Alvis I had a primary MOS as 54E20 Chemical Staff Spec. But my service history record showed me as a Door Gunner even though I didn't have the MOS or the training. I had OJT training. Im not trying to get you upset about it just trying to get you to stop and regroup some how to get around them. My VA rep here couldn't help me get this info so I have to think about all the things I needed to do to prove my case and it was hard and stressful so don't give up. Hang in their
James Ellis <hobus2004@excite.com>
Newport, NC USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 18:57:12 (MDT)
that should read copy, not cop...the s and y on my keyboard work less than I do.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 17:51:39 (MDT)
for you new folks.Here are some other 129th sites.http://www.huey.co.uk/****http://cafe3.ktdom.com/vietvet/us/us.htm****http://groups.yahoo.com/group/129thahc/*****http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpMAzKEvRPU******http://www.virtualwall.org/iAlpha.htm *****There are two more that I am aware of,one on Military .com and an excellent site by Don Miller listing and showing pictures of our KIAs.May I add that the ou tube one shows the 129th in action,with the ROKs.An excellent 5 minute movie,that could be a bit better in quality,but makes up for it in quanity. Its the "real deal".Someone should make a copy of it before it disappears off of you tube, but I believe a cop is on the ROK site.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 17:50:04 (MDT)
Jim, if they speak ok English,and need a job, we can get them on with Schnieder. Out on California (LA basin area),I ran into a Schneider driver that was a ROK with the Tiger DIV,at Lane/Anson.He was there before me tho.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 17:27:39 (MDT)
Jim, if the speak ok English,and need a job, we can get them on with Schnieder. Out on California (LA basin area),I ran into a Schneider driver that was a ROK with the Tiger DIV,at Lane/Anson.He was there before me tho.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 17:27:22 (MDT)
Those west of Saint Louis,keep an eye out. As I was driving east onI-74 today,I started passing lots of race cars headed west,on I-74.Finally got ahold of one of them on the CB. Right now is the race from coast to coast.These cars have numbers on the side with some sort of wings decals on the doors.Was about 30 of them,spread out about 20 miles or so.Smile,they were going just a bit faster, than the traffic flow.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 17:23:25 (MDT)
Thanks fred S. I go down the 78 often.I have a very good friend (Nam grunt),that lives in Allentown.Agent orange has gotten the best of him,different forms of cancer,but he is still kicking.Screw VA.DD214 sas onl that I was a "helicopter mechanic", with just one ( can you believe it) air medal. After submitting letters from Smitty (whomI flew with, and he is a retired VA phscologol nurse) and from a pilot I flew with (Dennis F.)telling how we got inverted..yes inverted,..still VA thinks I am a free loader. Course the dreams arent service related...grr ,lol,let me get off my stump. Am home for 2 days,then back out till KoKomo.Gotta stay out for 28 days to get 5 das off in a row.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 17:17:36 (MDT)
Mr. Ellis, you are so right....they want to see that a person was in combat. Bronze Star/with Valor or a combat medal...There is always a "write-up" about reason you got the medal. I wasn`t a "school trained" door-gunner. But I had a 05B20 MOS, basically a grunt radio operator....a combat MOS. Several of us were put in for Silver Stars and the pilots DFC`s........It got to Brigrade level and both were refused....Because what we did, wasn`t considered a "combat action". Don`t let me get started.....because we flew in a friggin typhoon and save the lives of about 600 to a 1,000 Viet Nationals and ARVN troops. I know we made a 7 helicopter rescue, and each one of us made 10 to 15 sorties......When we finally got our Soldiers Medal...it said we saved 150 people....we also got a South Vietnamese "Life Saving Medal"......Both are written in Vietnamese and English.......Never bothered me as a young man.......it pisses me off as a older man. Bottom line......you GOT to have that paper work. OR they(the VA ) will write you off as just another "freeloader"...... I spent 3 weeks in a VA hospital in 1975, when "the shit" was messing with me.....I walked around for 3 weeks doing the "thorazine shuffle"....then got discharged from the VA Medical Center.....They said I had "severe anxieities", so I took my presciption of Valium and went home...... "Fuhgeddaboudit"
Fred Skaggs
NJ USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 15:51:55 (MDT)
Alvis - I was a door gunner with the 129th and I was able to get VA help. You need records showing you were assigned as a gunner. Your Military history will show that. You also need to research the history files for the unit you were with like the missions or campains that went on while you were their. It took me a year to prove it. You have to prove everything to them but you need it in black and white. If you have certain medals it will prove it for you. I used the history of the 129th for the months I was their and my Mil history showing I was assigned as a gunner. If your VA rep is giving you a bad time maybe you need to find another on that cares. Please feel free to cantact me at my email address. If it wasn't for this site I would have never gotten the info I needed. God Bless all my brothers and I hope they seceed in their missions. Hello to all Also it would help out with these sites that you visit if you could put the internet address on this site. I would love to visit other site. We were all brothers in arms
James Ellis <drellis101@hotmail.com>
Newport, NC USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 10:04:11 (MDT)
Alvis I was a door gunner with the 129th and I was able to get VA help. You need records showing you were assigned as a gunner. Your Military history will show that. You also need to research the history files for the unit you were with like the missions or campains that went on while you were their. It took me a year to prove it. You have to prove everything to them but you need it in black and white. If you have certain medals it will prove it for you. I used the history of the 129th for the months I was their and my Mil history showing I was assigned as a gunner. If your VA rep is giving you a bad time maybe you need to find another on that cares. Please feel free to cantact me at my email address. If it wasn't for this site I would have never gotten the info I needed. God Bless all my brothers and I hope they seceed in their missions.
James Ellis <drellis101@hotmail.com>
Newport, NC USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 10:00:28 (MDT)
looking forward to kokomo. see every body there
paul mcgrath
USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 20:01:19 (MDT)
hiedi; glad to hear you found your brother. i have been looking for somebody for a friend of my wife and after 3-4 weeks of calling and searching i tracked him down. he is in a nursing home with alzhiemers and parkinsons.finally found him after 40 years and he can't remember my friend. definately bummed me out,i think it would have been easier if he had been dead
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 19:59:25 (MDT)
Heidi I am very happy you found your brother and please let him know we are still out here, plus please keep us posted on how he is doing. I will bring a Red Tee Shirt to Kokomo, missed what it is for. All have a safe week and last of all the VA is sending me to a surgeon at IU Medical Center next month to see if he thinks he can do something to help my leg.
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 15:29:55 (MDT)
JIM - that is one heck of a thing you did, congratulations and best wishes for the new immigrant. :-)
Heidi
USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 13:30:29 (MDT)
Alvis, heck I know what the VA is. You call me when you get the chance, I'm also in the phone book but here it is again, 212 544 9311. My ability is, to help the MEN not the system. Once upon a time you gave everything you had to do your duty, now they're satisfied and happy, they don't want to hear about what you have suffered directly from your service. that's the pattern. Ken don't you worry -- thank you so much for your emails and assistance, it was most warmly appreciated.
Heidi
USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 13:24:27 (MDT)
Flight, just wanted to let you guys know I spoke to my brother yesterday. What an incredible experience to hear his voice after 48 years, and to tell him how much he meant to me. Thanks everyone who leant a hand in helping me!

RESPECT! Always a step sister,
Heidi <southlodge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 13:14:14 (MDT)
James,You are right.But you spelled it wrong.It is not ROCK,but ROK[Republic Of Korea]Div. ROK Tiger Div,and 2nd Log ROK Medical Detachment,and supply.
Jim <Dustoff>
Shiloh, IL USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 08:03:05 (MDT)
Roger, In 1979,I set-up a textile manufaturing plant just outside Lane Field.I hired the son of our motorpool papa-son as the Gen.Manager.The plant was closed down in Sept.2000. Mr Lee chong and his family comeing to the USA this month.He fianlly got aproval from the US State Department.I helped him with his application for Immigration to America.They will be liveing in Maine.
Jim <Dustoff>
shiloh, IL USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 07:54:17 (MDT)
Hi Roger, Joe Johnson was at Lane a few years ago. He took a picture at the main gate,but,he said it was a restricted area inside and/or flying over. Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 07:30:18 (MDT)
What was the koreans just outside of Lane. I know they had a compound and I thought it was the Rock Div.
James Ellis <drellis101@hotmail.com>
Newport, NC USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 06:35:32 (MDT)
hey guys..it's been a long time since I was here...... looks like the bunch is still around hahaha. I am headed back to nam this spring and would like to chat with anyone that has been back to Lane field (or whats left of it). Looking forward to hearing from you. Roger
Roger Strong <shotstr825@yahoo.com>
Sand Springs, OK USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 at 23:02:16 (MDT)
Fred Alvis........1-908-577-2792......I always check out Schneider (Big Orange) trucks on I-78......I wonder if Fred Alvis is behind the wheel?.....
Fred Skaggs
Somewhere In, NJ USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 at 16:04:50 (MDT)
BRIGHT IDEA! Ask all that are comming to Kokomo to plan on wearing Something RED on Friday.Now is the time to plan.
Jim <Dustoff>
shiloh, IL USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 at 15:39:27 (MDT)
Hope everyone is doing well. Gary Woodward "Snoopy" sent a year book to me from the reunion this year. I need to know who to send the money to for the book. Thanks guys.
Dennis Faucher <dennis_faucher@hotmail.com>
Bradford, Pa USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 at 14:35:39 (MDT)
Fred, LZ English is the center of some of my nightmares. Found out from Larry Stokes it is a good part of his too. I wish I could come up with something on Heidi's brother but only found that there was an LTC retired without any other info. I am counting the days till Kokomo.
Ken Strong Jr
Lafayette, IN USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 at 12:27:50 (MDT)
good Idea Paul. Yep, the Tiger and Whitehorse div have an English webite.The love to hear from us.They too have been talking about AO exposer.
alvis
USA - Sunday, August 17, 2008 at 14:07:52 (MDT)
home for the afternoon,back thurday for VA and DOT doc appts. Heidi, Heck, we dont need help with VA.The told me that door gunners/crew chiefs werent combat jobs. I been fightinbg them since 86.I even recieved.handed in letters from two folks here that I flew with...and havent heard a word back from VA.The wa our goverenment treats its veterans is a disgrace,a nationial disgrace.(getting off my stump now).Was up in Staten Island,Monroe La,Cleveland oh,Tunkhannok PA,Carlisle PA this past week.Headed for Leavenworth KS in the early morn. Who ever ak about AO,remember LZ English? That mountian that hovered over it was bare red dirt..the entire mountian..Ao sprayed there.Even the bugs were dead on that mountian. Course we all know that it didnt wash down into our drinking water. Sorry, said I was getting of that stump. Freddy,I would really like to share a cup of coffee with you next time I am In NJ. Send me a phone number man. Talked to Alex yesterday as I was passingthru Memphis.
alvis
USA - Sunday, August 17, 2008 at 14:04:48 (MDT)
mr ellis; if you go to www.vietvet.co.kr/us/us and click on free board you can ask them your self or fred alvis may be able to help you out as he is a regular visitor to their site
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 19:02:50 (MDT)
Mr.Ellis, if you ever flew over An Khe and Mang Yang Pass along highway 19, that grey looking foilage on the north and south sides of the highway, that`s agent orange damage. I would venture to say, agent orange was used alot in the central highlands.
Fred Skaggs
Somewhere In , NJ USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 14:38:59 (MDT)
The Capital Division...aka...The Tiger Division was deployed just outside of Qui Nhon in Binh Dinh province, . They arrived on September 22, 1965 and returned home March 11, 1973........
Fred Skaggs
Somewhere In, NJ USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 14:29:22 (MDT)
Does anyone know about the Koreans we supported. The unit no or name and something about their areas they were in. I am sure they were in some of the agent orange areas and we either put them there or resupplied them. It would help on filing for VA bennies.
James Ellis <drellis101@hotmail.com>
Newport, NC USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 14:15:48 (MDT)
Flight today there was a good bit of news about the Helecopters on Military.com,about the Vietnam Veterans Memorail in Texas.
jim
shiloh, il USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 07:33:46 (MDT)
Simon, cool video!!......509 is looking GRAND! Gale
Gale
USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 06:15:56 (MDT)
Hello Flight. we were out with 509 last weekend at the Pageant of Power at Cholmondeley Castle (pronounced Chumley) in Cheshire. Great selection of classic racing cars of all descriptions plus motorbikes and power boats and helicopters. This is a video someone who went to the show put together. Well worth a watch as 509 features in it. http://www.scoobysmacs.co.uk/Videos/cholmondeley2008.wmv Take care. Bye for now from the 509 crew
Simon Johnson <simon_johnson@talktalk.net>
Mellor, 509 County UK - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 04:26:28 (MDT)
Alex, Sept 19-21
Gale
USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 21:59:11 (MDT)
Well back from Ohio. We had a full military send off for my Dad. Now!! Major Ronald Merrit. Co of the 129th. Last I heard he was in Enterprise Alabama. I think it was his son whom emailed me once. I did fly with him as did Glenn, Rainer, Truman and Joe. What are the Dates for Kokomo? Always A Brother!!
Alex
Collierville, TN USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 19:52:24 (MDT)
Snapper I got to the right page. Spectacular. Thanks again!!

Heidi
Heidi Merritt
NYC, NY USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 12:08:59 (MDT)
Wow Snapper thanks for that! I got to the Portal for the 1st Aviation Brigade, and can see all the links - but for some reason my browser (firefox) isn't recognizing them as links. I'll switch the browser and try again.

Also wanted to let folks know that I just finally made contact with one of his sons, which was amazing and wonderful. He's going to get in touch with Ron for me, since he's traveling right now.

Thanks so much for this, and for *everything*! RESPECT! Always a step sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southlodge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 12:04:49 (MDT)
Heidi, Go to the 1sy Aviation Brigade web site and then click on 52nd Avn Bn on the list of units on the right. Near top of 52nd page are some articles listed. Click on the October 1970 one. Read the article. LTC Merritt the BN CO is quoted in the article. You can get to 1st Brigade page by clicling links on 129th page, then VHCMA site, then helicopter units. 1st Brigade is at the top of the list. Hope this is helpful.
Snapper
USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 09:24:58 (MDT)
It also just occurred to me (I'm slow but I'm steady LOL) that I should also say:

If you know something about LTC Ron H. Merritt that you'd like kept NONpublic, something you wouldn't want to put up on the Internet, just call or email me. I will treat what you say in whatever way you want, and that is guaranteed. I can keep my mouth shut life-long, if it's preferable. My mission right now is to find him and talk, maybe help out if I can. I have no desire to intrude on anyone, nor to splash anything around that is better buried.

OK, me OUT.

RESPECT!! Always a step sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southlodge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 15:43:09 (MDT)
Ken, I was thinking about what you said.

I should give my telephone number, too: it's 212 544 9311.

Also, please guys, I am sure I can help anyone who is sick and getting the VA kick-around. call or write to me. And also, whoever is handling the Christmas fund, I'd like to hear from you, too. RESPECT! Always a step sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southlodge@att.net>
New York City-Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 14:27:41 (MDT)
Ken, very kind of you -- thank you! Yes, many are seeking brothers and fathers they lost touch with in VN and other arenas. My heart goes out to them. I know what it's like. To answer where & when Ron served, let me quote from the Flight Log Archives: http://www.129th.net/flightlog/archive/3/july01.html "Flight: Well Mark it was good talking to you. And Kim glad you made contact with Jeff. Glad to be of some help. That why I am here. Major Ronald H. Merritt Company Comander for the 129th 66-67. Glenn Pearmain,Rainer Bauer and I flew missions with him. It's would be nice to have him at one of our reunions. Was Glad that Mark posted his son-in-law's message. . . . Alex Fernwalt Memphis, Tn USA - Monday, July 30, 2001 at 09:28:20 (MDT" "Before I was assigned to the 129th (Feb '71-Apr '71) I was in the 170th AHC & 119th AHC, both of which were in the 52nd Combat Avaition Batallion. LTC Ronald H. Merritt was the Battalion Commander in '70-'71. The 52nd CAB was headquartered in Pleiku at that time. Carl Brader " I know some of the men remember him, and his son-in-law Capt. Ben Wright sent a message that Mark posted seven years ago. Hope I'm not too-little-too-late. RESPECT! Always a step sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southlodge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 14:07:44 (MDT)
Heidi thank you very much for your post here. Not sure about when & where your brother served but have alreadu been touched by sisters & daughters searching for connections after so many years. I know a bunch of us were touched by a young woman at Kokomo looking for anyone that might have known her father from Vietnam when he was a pilot. Connections are hard to find but mean so much to us all when they happen. So I hope you good luck on your quest knowing that I had a brother who left home in 1960 and I did not talk to him again till 1986. For some reason he picked up the phone and called just a week after our brother pasted away. He was also able to connect to his daughter that he had not seen sence she was six. It is like the guys trying to find the 129th, they just have to look in the right places and I hope many more come home to the unit.
Ken Strong Jr. <ken7776 at aol.com>
Lafayette, IN USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 13:39:55 (MDT)
Only one "D" in "southlodge, just wanted to correct it. RESPECT! Always a step sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southlodge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 12:00:35 (MDT)
Want to say something else and hope it's taken as intended. Been reading here for weeks now, every word, following every link, sometimes felt proud, sometimes triumphant, laughed for an hour, sometimes I broke down and cried - more than once. I also want to give back, and so I'd like to hear from whoever is doing the Christmas fund for next year. Just my opinion, I think you all keep to yourselves partly because you know deep down, civs can't possibly understand and a lot of them really have their heads screwed on backwards with mouths propped open and tongues stuck on high stream BS. I want to say that I do understand, it's something in the blood maybe, as all our men were military and all saw action. I feel I know every single one of you, and I understand all of it -- and I wasn't there, I wasn't even in. Too young for VN and didn't have the "right equipment" they wanted back then anyway. Want to say also, it's time you guys with this AO neuropathy, tumors, and other totally curable nonsense were taken care of. Get in touch with me if you're fighting with the VA over this, maybe I can help. The point is to get you healthy first for the fight. To you all, the 129th, and your many associated forces -- cherish your brothers and sisters, as I know you do. Have hope for yourselves if you are in torment, as I know many are. Think of what you got through before; this is a cakewalk with your family and close ones right here beside you. God knows you, knows your heart, and you are in Him and never left. I love you like a family I'll never have. Be safe, fight and rest and fight again. RESPECT! Always a step sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southloddge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 10:40:14 (MDT)
Hello flight -- Mark, I sent an email few days ago to you, about LTC Ron Merritt. No rush, I figure you've got plenty on your plate like most folks these days. Thought I'd post here because so many read this magnificent site and maybe someone else's memory might jog. I last saw my brother Ron when I was four years old. He and his beautiful wife were leaving after a visit, and I stood in our farmhouse kitchen and temporized & negotiated over that good-bye kiss cuz I thought maybe if I delayed long enough I could keep them there. Our family were shutterbugs from way back, so got the pictures of it right here in the albums and scrapbooks of our family that I keep. It was 1960. Anyway, and particularly to Capt. Ben Wright whose email Mark posted here, I would like to finally say hello personally to my brother Ron Merritt if possible -- and I would like to hear from you, his kids and kids-in-law, as your side of the family was lost to me so many years ago, and to this day I don't know why but that's past. Life is now, and it's not forever. RESPECT! Always a step-sister, Heidi
Heidi Merritt <southlodge@att.net>
New York City - Manhattan, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 10:37:43 (MDT)
Jim and Gale, Slow hand salute rendered to both 498th member and National Guard friend......Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 06:21:09 (MDT)
well flight just thought i'd pop in and say i just got my award from the va today.could be the start of another nightmare.got 20% for dm2 and smc-k for ed.
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Monday, August 11, 2008 at 17:34:22 (MDT)
Jim, sorry buddy....slow hand salute also to Andre Trinijac
Gale
USA - Monday, August 11, 2008 at 11:26:16 (MDT)
Flight, In January of 1967 I started my AIT at Ft Rucker,Al. I met a fellow that was about 12 years older than me and he was in the National Guard from Ohio. He was also there for the helicopter training. He was having a rough time taking in all that new stuff, so, my buddy (Richard Blakeslee) and I helped him through it. He was just a "good ole boy" and the training was a little tougher than he expected. Anyway, when it was over we said are good-byes and he was very, very appreciative. I went to Nam and he went home. After I got home in June of 1968, I started getting a Christmas card from him & his wife Thelma and we exchanged cards every year for the last 40 years. We talked on the phone a few times he was gonna try to make one of our reunions so we could meet again........didn't happen. Thelma called yesterday to tell me he had died at age 78 and to tell me that he really thought a lot of me. Slow hand salute to Earl Roy, a truly thankful National Guardsman. Guys, that's why these 129th reunions are so important to us and you had better not wait too long to get to one....cause it may not happen. Always a brother, Gale
Gale
Clinton, In USA - Monday, August 11, 2008 at 08:53:59 (MDT)
We just had an 498th dustoff member Pass away today.He lived in Colorado Springs,Co. Andre Trinijac,served 2 tours RVN w/498th.
Jim <Dust Off>
shiloh, IL USA - Saturday, August 09, 2008 at 17:20:09 (MDT)
Mark,.......what? Of course I'll be in my Shasta....and I "will" be the RETROMAN!
Gale
USA - Thursday, August 07, 2008 at 08:31:20 (MDT)
Gale???...No Shasta this year, no retro man name then;-)))))
Mark
USA - Thursday, August 07, 2008 at 07:34:48 (MDT)
whew hoo..am home after 2 days,for the night anyway.Gently,was thru Milwaukee yesterday and today.Buzzed up to Escanaba, Mi.( from Green Bay),taking the load to Ky.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, August 06, 2008 at 17:42:39 (MDT)
Jim and Susan........................yeah! Happy news is so refreshing on the site. Ray, just got the cd's. I love them: harp music. Take care of that German Shepard. I found one as a stray many years ago, no one claimed it so I kept it. It was trained by someone to follow hand commands. I have always wondered why no one would claim a dog they trained on hand signals and who was a gentle as a big teddy bear. I hope you love it as I loved mine. God bless. L-Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, August 06, 2008 at 09:00:51 (MDT)
Source: Army Times Study links prostate cancer, Agent Orange By Kelly Kennedy - Staff writer Posted : Wednesday Aug 6, 2008 5:55:35 EDT Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange are nearly twice as likely to have prostate cancer — especially in its most aggressive form — when compared to veterans who were not hit with the herbicide, according to new research from the University of California, Davis, Cancer Center. The new findings stem from a study of 13,000 Vietnam veterans enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Northern California Health Care System. The exposed veterans also were an average of 2½ years younger than men typically diagnosed with the disease, and were almost four times more likely to have cancer that had spread to other parts of their bodies. “Just as those with a family history of prostate cancer or who are of African-American heritage are screened more frequently, so too should men with Agent Orange exposure be given priority consideration for all the screening and diagnostic tools we have at our disposal in the hopes of early detection and treatment of this disease,” said Ralph deVere White, director of the Cancer Center and a study co-author. Research has already linked Agent Orange to soft-tissue sarcomas, Hodgkin’s disease and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This is the largest study to connect prostate cancer with Agent Orange, said Karim Chamie, lead author of the study and a resident physician with the UC Davis Department of Urology and the VA Northern California Health Care system.
Fred Skaggs
Somewhere In , NJ USA - Wednesday, August 06, 2008 at 06:52:52 (MDT)
Fred hope you get a chance to read this later. I hope others enjoyed and got a better idea of life on the road from your post. A good friend of mine did long haul over twenty years ago with driver's licenses from several states. He did love it until he got married and started having kids. Jan & I have a friend working for your company named Roger Mettes, (Viet Vet). He quit his job to go through the training for them. Fred I am glad to hear you don't eat in Truck Stops anyway. Still it seems like a great idea to fuel up, shower & catch up on paperwork. Honestly we were stopping at quite a few with my truck & camper. Its just you guys deserve a good home cooked meal now & than. Last thing, I got a good letter from Rep. Steve Buyer today about the letters I have been writing him for the past two years over fuel. I said before that the ideas I had work him about have been added in the Bill or a lot of people were telling him the same thing. This guy has really been open to ideas and he was no that did get the travel pay to go to the VA increased. No politics but guys write these guys often. We are sending all our money to other countries and the guys in Washington have not gotten anything done in the past five years. I have been bitching at Buyer for four years and do feel he is paying attention, or at least they have my name to each issue. Today it was about oil and three weeks ago it was about VA benefits. I don't write asking for his help for myself but for our country & our veterans. We need to wake all these idiots up.
Ken Strong Jr.
Lafayette, IN USA - Monday, August 04, 2008 at 19:17:51 (MDT)
Boo...............................................
Gale
USA - Monday, August 04, 2008 at 17:16:46 (MDT)
well boys,taking off, see you whenever.
alvis
USA - Monday, August 04, 2008 at 05:27:38 (MDT)
Ken,I am by myself on the road,so I rough it.I have yet to eat a meal in a truck stop.To be honest,I really dont care to even "overnite" at a truckstop. noise and sometimes hookers(lot lizards) beating on the door in the middle of the night.The up side is security in numbers,a decent place to shower,use the bathroom,and of course,that lovely ,lovely,steaming cup of coffee that many of us crave in the morning. Rest areas usually are eaiser to find a place to park,and quieter.But then,pickle parks (rest areas) sometimes are hangout for a guy looking for another guy.None of biz about that,but I dont like getting hit on. I carry canned food,plastic forks,ect and have a cooler I plug into my "power point" to keep juice, milk,bread,ect cold. Everyone,and I mean everyone, out on the road is trying to get into Truck Drivers wallets.One used to get a free cup of joe with fuel..no longer.Added up by the fluid ounce,coffee is over 10 dollars a gallon. 600 to 800 dollars every two or three days for fuel in usual.Showers are 10 dollars,but free with a fill-up.wash your clothes...2.50 per load. Federal law ay we can drive 11 hours then we must have a 10 hour break, or we can "work" 14 hours,then must have a 10 hour break.This can be combined,but you cannot drive more than 11 hours. no overtime.Some of my 14 hour days,on paper, have been 18 to 20 hours.4 hours sleep,3 or 4 days in a row,tires you out.It happens.The law says we cant work more than 70 hours in 8 days. (remember..no overtime,,you arnt moving,you arnt making an money)There isnt a truck driver out there that hasnt far exceeded this limit.If you exceed these limits( on paper),you get heavly fined by the cops and will get fired.Local,State and the federal goverenment try their best to get into our wallets as well. On big trucks, the fifth wheel is adjustable,fore and aft.The trailer wheels can also be ajusted. The law limit me to 12 thouand pounds of the steer axels, 34 thousand on the drive wheels and 34 thouand on the trailer wheels. A few weeks ago, got in a hurry in Ok,guessed at my setting b reading the weight on the Bills of Laden. The trailer was sealed,so I couldnt look to see how it was loaded. Crossed into S. Dakota,was pulled into the scale house. 2,900 pounds overweight on the trailer axels.Nope, the didnt let me adjust,then try the weight agin.Paid 258 dollar fine..that HAD to be paid before I left..after readjusting,then reweigh.It long,long, lonly hours,pa is so-so to good,depends on the week.3 thouand miles a week and I am ahead..less than that, tighten the belt.The trucks are cut back to 60 mph,cause of fuel prices,so not much time to relax.I have 7 gauges I have to constantly moniter,and about 15 switches I use almost daily. My 10 speed trans..well,7 gears get me up to 29 mph.9th gets me to 55.ou see why truckers hate traffic..lots of work and we get paid by the mile. All that being said..I really like the job.Long streaches of highway,no boss,seeing mother nature in so many different forms and landscapes.So far, I have seen 3 bald eagles,bears,wild pigs,deer antelope,armadillos and on and on.Ever so often i get to pla with the kids..making he pumping motion for me to blow my airhorn..dont know who smiles bigger,them or me.I try and stay out for 4 weeks at a time,but its hard on Susan.I havent hit anyone and have aved more than a few drivers form getting under my wheels.Thats the hard part..watching the cars..gotta always watch them..always.
alvis
USA - Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 21:53:41 (MDT)
Fred those are great thoughts, Gale and anyone else, I just paid for Fri & Saturday night so you have to pay your Admission of ten & any other nights when you get to the gate. I plan on bringing the generator but will need help unloading it. Gale if you are there I at least know I won't be waiting by myself for someone to show up this year. Fred we stopped on our way back from the VA and ate at a TA Truck Stop. I don't know how you guys do it as it was the dried out food. The waitress was the only good thing there and Jan said the coffee was OK. Take care brothers..
Ken Strong Jr
Lafayette, IN USA - Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 15:29:10 (MDT)
Hey flight, just recieved a letter from George Bessette. He was a first timmer at the reunion this year.He was part of the gang that went to the Arch...in fact, he drove,lol.First and foremost, he ak that I a hello and give his kindest reguards to Ray and Gail.He says he feels quilty for not renting a van and dragging Ray and Gail with us to the Arch.He is thinking of ou guys and will drop ou a nore in the near futher.Now, pay attention you folks that have never attended a reunion.George speaks well about the feeling that all of us have gone through for these reunion.I dont think george will mind if I copy part of his letter,to convince you folks about showing up for one.I quote,"The reunion was one of the most important things I have done for myself in what seems forever.I go through m houghts of that war so often in my head and always end with the wondering of how the other crew members lives turned out.The reunion filled a lot of that gap out. I learned that we kind of remember the same way,have a love/hate relationship with it.It was good to tell to a few guys and openly discuss my personal doubts about doing my job,no more,no less of feeling the uselessness when people were lost.The twisted emotions a chapel services for friends we lost.When others left to go home,I wished it was me and the da it was I left to go home onl to forget and hoped to work the war off.Like alot of the guys the memories stayed and sometimes for the better and other times for worse.,that i didnt know what to make of but I do know for certian the gus I flew with were and are the best gus I met and thank God I now can reunite with them." (spelling errors are mine).George says he hopes to get another pc in dec or jan,and will join us here.
alvis
USA - Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 12:23:09 (MDT)
Gosh Jim, I dunno. Anyone have any ideas? You know the 129th,498th,394th gang is getting bigger all the time. You be the judge on this one......we can always make a store run......
Gale
USA - Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 08:15:12 (MDT)
Gale,How many Bratts and burgers do you think we might need?No problem.
jim <Dustoff>
Shiloh, IL USA - Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 07:30:38 (MDT)
Jim, that's a great offer on the meat, but, I already have it as it will have to be cooked ahead of time. I'm using a pork butt. Although Jim, if we had some burgers & brats to throw on the fire......cool. Speaking of "butts", Mark..heehhehee, are you bringing your big aluminum frame & cammo again this year? Ken, or whoever gets there first...make sure that we get a fire ring at the site. Of course, we always need some nice big logs. Later, Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 07:12:14 (MDT)
Gale,This year my brother is comeing to kokomo with me on Wednesday afternoon I think.He will split the holiday inn room with me.Paul, already made the resv.for friday and saturday night.I think that he has a room for wed,thursday which we will split.As for meat!I have a brother that runs a meat packing plant in Belleville,IL.I can get almost anything for free.How much do we need?
jim
Shiloh, IL USA - Friday, August 01, 2008 at 21:48:13 (MDT)
Gale and Ken ; i believe it will be me, my wife and dustoff jim and maybe a newbie. we will be staying at days inn but will come by on friday nite and be there all day saturday. do you need to get some money from me? let me know how much and i will send it right out. see ya in kokomo
paul mcgrath
lasalle, il USA - Friday, August 01, 2008 at 21:16:33 (MDT)
Ken, I hope you can bring the generator.I'll get your money to you. If I want to get there on Thursday, I should send your check plus another $10 ....is that right? It's "chip in" time.....if you guys want me to bring some "pulled pork bbq" for Friday night, let's chip in with some; buns, chips, pickles, etc. Then Saturday night we'll eat turkey with the other group...as usual. I'll still fix breakfast Saturday morning. We need our own 129th AHC indentity goin'on, but, we do need the ole team effort! Luv you guys & we'll see you at Kokomo.
Gale
USA - Friday, August 01, 2008 at 18:57:57 (MDT)
The Huey 509 webite,Phil, has a very decent looking key ring aviable now. ( just saw it on the site) It run about 6 bucks,plus shipping. Check it out.
alvis
USA - Friday, August 01, 2008 at 17:38:55 (MDT)
Thanks Gale, you the man
alvis
USA - Friday, August 01, 2008 at 11:10:49 (MDT)