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Happy New Year all.Hope everyones New Year Starts out as good as mine, just had a phone call from an old friend,whos like a brother to me,to wish me a happy new year.Thought I'd never hear from him Becuase of what happen to me 4 years ago.Just had too share this with my family.Feel good ,Happy new Year all.See you all at Phoenix. wink
Barry Winkler <Cobra129th@AOL>
Lakeland, fl. USA - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 23:06:32 (MST)

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Hope everything is ok with the flight. ******* My computer took a dump this past week. I think someone asked for pins my address is 20417 Denver hill Witmmann Az 85361 My home phone is 623 388 2628. Well its New years eve and please be careful out there. Bull Dog 431 the Iron Butterfly
Rick England
Witmann, Az USA - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 17:12:24 (MST)

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Just read Keith W's response about going home early. I think we all felt (feel) the same. One day you are in RVN and the next day you were home. Maybe we all needed to go home by 'slow boat', or be assigned to a base in the States for a few weeks before going home. Give us a chance to get our heads screwed on straight before we saw the family. I was still wearing my uniform when I first saw my new born. There I was, looking at my baby for the first time, thinking about the CA I flew a few days earlier, out of a job and wondering what I was going to do to support my family. And wondering how everybody was doing back in RVN, wondering if the guys back there were all right, wondering if I left them "holding the bag", thinking I should be with them flying a CA . . . not "here" in a nice warm house with my family. Happiness, guilt, anxiety. . . Lots of things for a young man to think about.
Mike Miles
USA - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 07:01:59 (MST)

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Want to wish everybody a Happy New YearAn hopeits better than 2001.Alex wrote you a e-mail last with my e-mail address. Hope you an liz got it.Just wanted to check in to say high to all.
Barry Winkler (wink) <Cobra 129th@AOL>
Lakeland, fl USA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 22:15:42 (MST)

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Happy holiday's to all in the 129th family,the commo is great in hear I wish I had more time but can't do much about that, I did make my reservation for the reuion so we will see you all there, I hope skaggs can make it? and Debates havent seen you for 30+ years that will be neat,I see Barry has a computer but his address is not right? I can't send mail to him??? Mark are you still planning to ride, I am so let me know, I am going to take 2 week's for the trip, now that will be a good ride. So Happy New Year to all and to all a good night. Love Ya All Pete Bulldog 216
Pete Rhome <pbulldog216@msn.com>
brunwick, oh USA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 09:50:32 (MST)

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Thanks Carolyn for your kind words and Happy New Year to you and Lee and to all the 129th family. Debbie and I hope to see you in Phoenix-----we are planning on being there. Take care, Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 14:41:08 (MST)

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BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR FAMILY IN THE 129th. LEE ENJOYS READING THE NOTES SEND BY EVERYONE BUT HE IS NOT GOOD ON THE OLD KEYBOARD OR COMPUTER BUT HE IS LEARNING!! EVERY SINCE GALE BEARD CONTACTED LEE LAST SPRING AND WE ATTENDED THE REUNION, LEE HAS BEEN ABLE TO BEGIN THE HEALING PROCESS, YOU GUYS KNOW WHAT I MEAN. I AM TRYING TO TALK LEE INTO GOING TO THE NEXT REUNION BUT HE DOSEN'T LIKE TO TAKE TIME AWAY FROM HIS BUSINESS. A BIG THANK YOU TO MARK FOR ALL YOUR WORK. OH, AND I CAN'T FORGET THAT GREAT PIZZA AT THE POP-A-TOP. (HOME BOY, NOTHING YOU WRITE CAN BOTHER US)
carolyn wood <cwoo86700@aol.com>
dayton, oh USA - Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 11:08:00 (MST)

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get over it
home boy
USA - Friday, December 28, 2001 at 22:34:49 (MST)

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So sick of your bullshit
HomeBoy
USA - Friday, December 28, 2001 at 22:31:42 (MST)

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Well goodmorning Flight!!!!! Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. When Christmas rolls around I always think of Christmas 1965. First Christmas in Vietnam. Dehydraded turkey and potatoes. C-rations was better. Gently glad your friend got a good response from us. Were all pulling for him. Glad to see all the commo. Looks like were going to have a good turn out in Phoenix. Sending out letters to the ones whom don't have computers. Right now staying busy with work but,with the VHCMA business also. The Exc. Charlie Rains was called to active duty Christmas Day. He couldn't give me any details as of yet. Also, Tommy Magnum of the VHCMA is doing better after his stroke. He is determined to get to Phoenix. And to all of you a safe New Years. Alex 129th 65-68 Ps. Good to see Kal and Tom on the Flight log.
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Friday, December 28, 2001 at 09:30:31 (MST)

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A big thank you to all who wrote my incarcerated Vietnam Veteran Marine,Tom. I talked to him yesterday and he stated that he wrote all of you back. You made him feel great, considering the circumstances. His court date is 1/7/02 and one of the charges is carrying a gun as a felon-but his spirit is high and he has hope. Thank you again my brothers. In closing, a peaceful new year......and may lots of bucks pore into the Pop-a-Top. Ron Paye,Sir, see you for the Veterans reunion in New Glarius in January! I'll put you on my dance card. With gentle thoughts-Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, December 28, 2001 at 06:54:57 (MST)

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I want to take this opportunity to hope everyone has a happy New Year. I won't be able to make the reunion due to the lack of funds to make a long trip. Hopefully, one year the reunion will be close to Pennsylvania. Although I don't post very often I do read what others have to say almost every night. Mark and Dee my wife liked visiting coldwater that we will be heading your way again this summer.
Arthur Campbell <campbe@dc1.net>
uniontown, Pa USA - Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 17:13:56 (MST)

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Montana Christmas Greetings Flight! Hope you're all enjoying the best of the holiday. Sure a far cry from what we survived on over there. I spent two Christmas holidays over there, 69 and 70. I don't miss the reason for being there, but certainly remember how close we stuck together during that time. On the lighter side - does anybody have a copy or remember the words to Jingle Bells - VietNam rendition. Jingle Bells, mortar shells, VC in the grass, take your homemade Christmas Tree, and shove it up your ))#&$#)&(. That's all I remember - anybody???? We sang it often - obviously alcohol was a contributing factor. Our prayers for each and every one of you, that 2002 brings us yet closer together, and peace in our lifetime. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Ron and Jamie
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 18:42:14 (MST)

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Merry Christmas to all my 129th buddies...Have a Happy and SAFE 2002 Crew Chief on slick 495 1965/1966
Larry Graham <3card@wfeca.net>
Graceville, FL USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 11:01:21 (MST)

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Merry Christmas to all my brothers and their families Rainer & Dee
Rainer Bauer <bauerrv@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 07:18:46 (MST)

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.....A MERRY DAY TO ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS.........PEACE BE WITH YOU!!!!!! POP-A-TOPII
MARK JACKSON
USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 05:36:17 (MST)

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Wishing all of you and yours a most joyous holiday season. Flame
Darwin Schmiedt--Flame <schmitty@santel.net>
woonsocket, SD USA - Monday, December 24, 2001 at 20:00:27 (MST)

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.................MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL............HERE WE SET. GIRLS ALL HOME, SONS-IN-LAWS ALL HERE. BOYFRIENDS, AND GRANDKIDS WILL BE HERE TOMORROW BRIGHT AND EARLY IN THE MORN. SNOW FELL ALL DAY TODAY. IS A WINTER WONDERLAND HERE TONIGHT. TURKEY, AND ALL THE FIXIN'S IN THE FRIG FER TOMORROW. BEEN MUNCHIN' ON ALL KINDS OF SCHTUFF FER A WEEK. COOKIES AND THE LIKEIN'S..................PRESENTS UNDER THE TREE. SOME FOR ALL. BAR SHUT DOWN FER DA NIGHT......SORTA BUSY DAY TODAY. REOPEN AT 6:00PM TOMORROW FER A SPELL...................NOW, MY THOUGHTS TURN TO YOU ALL..........MY GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR ARE ONLY A FINGERTIPS OF A KEYBOARD AWAY TONIGHT..........FOR MY GIFTS COME IN THE FORM OF ALL OF YOU.....HAD A DRAM ONE NIGHT 6 YEARS AGO, AND NOW, ALL, OF YOU ARE PART OF IT. I AM BLESSED, AND IF A MANS RICHES BE COUNTED BY THE AMOUNT OF ONES HE LOVES, AND THE ONES THAT LOVE HIM, THEN I, AM THE RICHIST MAN IN THE WORLD.......WHAT ELSE CAN I SAY? ...........NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS WOULD I HAVE EVER THOUGHT THAT I WOULD COME TO KNOW SO MANY OF THE 129TH.............THANK YOU MY FAMILY OF THE 129TH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!NO WORDS REALLY CAN EXPLAIN WHAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!..................IS VERY WARMING TO SEE ALL THE CHRISTMAS GRETTINGS FROM ALL COMIN' THROUGH THE FLIGHT LOG BOOK......WHAT A WONDERFUL FAMILY WE HAVE...........SOME FROM SOME, THAT DO NOT SPEAK THAT OFTEN, BUT OBVIOSLY CHECK IN DAILY TO READ THE LOG BOOK............LOST FOR WORDS AT THIS TIME.....JUST WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW THAT WE ALL ARE REALLY FINE HERE, AND WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW THAT WE LOVE YOU ALL VERY,VERY MUCH. PLEASE REMEMBER, WHEN I SAY, YOU ARE ALL, THE VOICE OF LARRY, WHEN YOU SPREAK IN HERE. PLEASE KEEP TALKIN'.............................. MARRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL........AND PEACE BE WITH YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!MARK AND DEE AND NINO AND AMBIE AND STEPHANIE AND BILLY AND MARK AND JED AND, OH YEA, THE DOGS ALSO, RAZZ AND P.J......................................."257" INBOUND FOR CHRISTMAS............THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH......................"257" OUT.....HO.HO.HO.HO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
MARK AND DEE JACKSON <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ X/MAS, USA - Monday, December 24, 2001 at 19:04:22 (MST)

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all my old friends in the 129th.
Bill Whelan <bwhelan@thedisplayworks.net>
Elk Grove Village, IL USA - Monday, December 24, 2001 at 13:00:24 (MST)

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of the 129th family.
Tom Pedersen <Safetyshark@aol.com>
Atlanta, Ga USA - Monday, December 24, 2001 at 07:40:43 (MST)

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To all my 129th Family and friends I want to wish a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and prosperous New year!! Things have been pretty busy this year and are just starting to slow up a bit. I even have 4 days off for Christmas.. It has been good to see and try to catch up on all the postings as of late. Looks good!!.. Now, for the important things... The reunion is looking good from here.. I went to the VHCMA and the VHPA reunions last year and by far, to me, the VHCMA was the best. I hope to see you all there.. Once again, The BEST of the Holidays to everyone and I hope to see you all soon!!.. Take care.. C U L8r.... Kal..
Kally Bergstrom <n8auu@email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 23:21:21 (MST)

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I've been reading about everyone leaving Lane and I am thinking we all left the same way ... I had C.Q. the night of the 10/11 of march (70) so when I got up around noon I went to the orderly room just to see what was going on. when I got there Top asked me why I was there. I told him I was just checking to see what was happening. he said " do you see that helicopter running up on the flight line ?" I turned around and looked out the door and said "yes", he said "well that is your ride home" needless to say I made the flight. so to the main reason for my post tonight ...... Everyone have a SAFE and Merry Christmas I got my present today ( my son called from Singapore, his ship is on it's way home )and I hope to see Y'all in Phoenix, Later, Don
Don Miller <ayla@c2i2.com>
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 20:41:01 (MST)

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Mele Kalikimaka ( Merry christmas) To all the 129th Family. Lurch, Shadow, Thor, Smitty, Dave... and everyone else. I spoke to "Festus" on the phone the other day, and he sends his greetings. He's also looking forward to a VHPA gathering in his hometown of Las Vegas coming up in July. Best Holiday wishes, ANIMAL (1st Flt Plt '71-'72)
Greg Henkel <tatu@gte.net>
Hawahh USA - Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 11:11:58 (MST)

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Wishing everyone a Very Merry and Peaceful Christmas and A Most Happy New Year. Hold your family and your loved ones close and never pass up an opportunity to tell them how you feel. And Lurch, thanks for your words. The leaving was abrupt for me, too and I suspect for many of us. Run, jump, go, only that mission went to Cam Rhan Bay and then to an unfamiliar world and there was no going back. Unfinished business, unsaid goodbyes. Soothsayer, 67-68
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@home.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 08:51:08 (MST)

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Hello to all, Mark enjoy the 129th.net. I know you all remember the Holidays away from home. Just want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. GOD bless you all. GOD bless America. Larry
Larry Potter 67-68 <pot1941@wvista.net>
Cheyenne, Wy USA - Saturday, December 22, 2001 at 19:34:56 (MST)

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To all my new found bothers and sisters, a very merry Christmas and a great new year. Keep your tail rotors clear and have a good flight. Randy
Randy <kingcobra697@yahoo.com>
USA - Saturday, December 22, 2001 at 18:41:51 (MST)

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I am looking for photos and information on RICHARD ARTHUR SAWRAN Kia'd 9/12/69.I am doing a Memorial Site for him. If anyone would like to contribute, please contact me. You can view the site under construction at the URL above.You can also visit my old unit site in Tay Ninh 66/67. I'm sure the 129th was there at sometime.Please visit both and enjoy. http://www.homestead.com/175thengineers/homepage.html http://vietnamveteransmemoral.homestead.com/Home.html
Ron Titus <barny@bellatlantic.net>
Phillipsburg, NJ USA - Saturday, December 22, 2001 at 16:59:59 (MST)

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I would like to wish all the 129th a most peaceful and joyous Holiday. May you find peace in all that you do. Katharine
Katharine Marsee <fricabeunme@msn.com>
Elizabehtown, KY USA - Saturday, December 22, 2001 at 14:12:32 (MST)

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Well it is officially thirty years today that I left the best group of people I have ever been associated with -- the men of the 129th AHC! Caught a ride on a bird from the 101st and was surprised to see W.O. Francis Tierney who had been in the "Grey Ghosts" Flight School Class 70-41/7043! We had not seen each other since graduation day at Rucker. I left rather abruptly and in a way that has always troubled me. I came home from flying one day earlier in December and was told the XO wanted to see me. All through the post flight, filling out the logs, and walking up to HQ I'm busting my pea sized brain trying to remember what kind of stunt I might have pulled the night before that would warrant a visit with the XO. (I was drinking just a little bit too much, too often and at times the booze could overload my mouth.) Anyway, I remember the XO saying, "Lurch, I've got some good news and some bad news. Which do you want first?" Vietnam had turned me into something of a pessimist, a trait that persists even today, and ever since Vietnam there has been a part of me that has expected the worst, so naturally I answered, "Give me the bad news." I remember he smiled and said, "The bad news is we're really gonna miss you -- the good news is your getting a Christmas drop!" I had known for a few weeks that with all of the aviation units that were "standing down" that there might be a chance that I would get a drop and be "Home for the Holidays!" At the time, I thought it was the best Christmas present ever, but in the long run I've carried a sense that I didn't finish my tour of duty properly, that I had deserted my friends. I was in the Nam for 10 months and 8 days. Larry "Thor" Thies and I had came to the 129th on the same day -- I still feel I should have stayed and come home with Larry. Anyway, this day has for some years now been a difficult one and I am baffled as to why I feel like I do. You know I can't even remember the XO's name, however, I do remember W.O. Alton "Shadow" Page and it was good to see the posting from you my friend. I love to receive an e-mail from you to update what you've been up to the past three decades! I'm in regular contact with "Frog" and "Tadpole" and would love to visit with you. I'll more than likely be posting again before Christmas, but just in case I want to extend my best wishes to all you Bulldogs and Cobras out there. My hope is that all is well with you and your loved ones and that the Holidays are a joyous time! Lurch, out.
Keith "Lurch" Weisheit <rkweisheit@aol.com>
Evansville, IN USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 23:46:56 (MST)

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Thank you very much Mike. I can enjoy the holidays now. Peace to all. Gently
Gently <GentlyJ>
USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 13:23:27 (MST)

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FYI: I just called Ron Paye. He broke his modem, but hopefully will be back on line within the next few days. Everything is OK with him.
Mike Teutschman <mike.teutschman@boeing.com>
Lynnwood, WA USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 10:45:56 (MST)

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I would like to wish all the guys of the 129th a Very Merry Christmas and hope that next year is good to all of you.
Harrell.Guidry <kgid@mail.pernet.net>
Groves, Tx USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 09:55:00 (MST)

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I would like to wish all of you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Peace to all in these times of trouble.
Alton Page 01/71-12/71 <Alton Page/FSG/CSC@CSC>
USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 09:38:10 (MST)

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May the holidays find you visiting peace. Be safe, smile, and hug everyone. Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 06:57:22 (MST)

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My friends, Thank you for sending cards or letters to my friend and your incarerated brother, Tom. You guys are wonderful. Meanwhile, Brother Ron Paye is AWOL and I'm worried. His E-mailbox is full and not taking anymore emails. Anyone heard from him? Ron, you are in so-o much trouble...concerned, Gently
Gentlyj <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 13:17:19 (MST)

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Well goodmorning Flight: First Liz and I would like to wish all of you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful and Safe New Years. We all have alot to be thankful for. Randy glad your going to make the reunion. If possible bring your wife. These reunions are not only for us but, our famlies. You have to start the healing somewhere, why not with your Brothers that you shared that experience with. Glently my Sister will get a card in the mail. Thank you for letting us know. And Gale I hope alot of cards with encouragement have made it centerville tenn. And thank you for letting us know of our fallen Brother!!! As I look back on alot of the post made here. We have grown into a very large family. I am thankful to be able to have met quite a few of you already. It means alot to be able to put a face with the names. I really feel great about getting the 129th to come to these reunions. And with Mark Jackson's help along with this web site. It has come together. I hope to at least double our size this year. It's always a great pleasure meeting our old Brothers and Sisters. But, the opportunity of meeting our new Brothers and Sisters and really welcoming them Home and into the 129th FAMILY. You all take Care!! Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 09:15:26 (MST)

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Brothers & sisters, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas ,since, I'll be pretty busy for next 5 or 6 days. Gently--met your call--I hope your friend can get his life turned around. Thanks to all that sent cards to the wife of James White (129th 67-68). He died of cancer at age 58. Her addy again is: Ann White / 151 Moss Spring Hollow Rd / Centerville, Tn 37033-4153 in case you missed it. Making reservations for LZ Phoenix and looking forward to seeing all again and meeting the new. Take care, Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 07:29:36 (MST)

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Sorry I should thank Wink for ur comments sorry.
randy
USA - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 13:48:54 (MST)

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Alex, Thanks for ur comments on the reunion. This will be my first And I am a little worried how I will react to all the feeling and memories that I haven't dealt with yet. Your words were reassuring. THANKS. Matt my check is in the mail for 2 shirts. My wife would like one also. Heck she was never over there but she served. Been married to her for 36 years. Do u have ne xxl or just xl. Do they shrink? Randy 9/66 7/68
Randy <kingcobra697@yahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 13:47:00 (MST)

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My deaqr friends: On a personal note: One of my Vietnam Veteran Marine(SEMPER FI) friends is in jail-facing mandatory prison. A felon with a gun in Wisconsin does time...period, and he is a felon who had a gun(a felon because he walked away from a Huber situation several years ago). He had a fight with his girlfriend on 9/11 and then shortly afterward found out his step-daughter was killed in the WTC attack-he lost it. He's an alcoholic who was clean for a year-but after all of that he took some booze and a couple of guns to hit the woods in northern Wisconsin. Shortly thereafter, he got caught stealing a gun and ran from the police-got caught and now is in some very serious trouble. He suffers from PTSD and "Survivor Guilt". While in Nam, 71-72, he coordinated strikes from a navy ship and now lives with the thought of the numbers he may have killed. And he can't understand why he survived Nam when so many others didn't. He is my best friend and like a brother. Ron Paye met him at the Highground in Wisconsin last year. He could use cards or letters. Please consider taking afew minutes and writing him-just a hello will be very meaningful-he's pretty low right now. His name is Tom Hanson and he can be written to at: Forest County Jail, 100 S. Park Street, Crandon, WI., 54520
Gently <Gentlj@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 07:15:02 (MST)

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Heads Up Flight....I doubt if I'll have a chance to be on line much before the Holidays due to the problems here so let me do this while I can. To all of you and yours' "Happy Holidays"....Thank you all for this past year. Be safe. Hug the kids, even if you don't know them, get to know them. This is their season. They are the future, we are the past. Teach them the good we have learned and pray they never have to see the bad. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 06:17:43 (MST)

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL IN THE 129th. I talked with Curt Classen yesterday (17 Dec 01) for awhile, he and his wife now live in Arizona (Scottsdale I believe). I let him know that the reunion is in Phoenix next year and will keep him posted. Curt if you read this at anytime it was real good to talk to you. I believe Bruno Sanchez (CC of The 426)will also try to make it. Alex and Liz it'll be good to see you both again. My grandbabies are doing real fine Alex thanks for asking. Mark whats up brother man? Everyone be safe and enjoy the holidays. "426 out"
Bernie Hernandez
Ogden, Ut USA - Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 08:13:54 (MST)

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Good morning Gently, I just wanted you to know that I did check out the Virtual Wall and I am very, very impressed. Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 07:39:49 (MST)

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Where is Ron Paye? Bernie? Come on guys-check in. With a wink-Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 07:15:25 (MST)

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Alex, Rainer. Sounds like a plan to me. Anymore takers? Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 21:48:32 (MST)

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Hey guys, if you don't mind I would like to join you when you go to the Pop A Top. Anytime is fine, Rainer 65-67
Rainer bauer <bauerrv@aol.com>
Indy, USA - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 14:54:20 (MST)

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Good morning 129th!!!! Gus sorry to hear about your wife. But as a lot of brothers and sisters have already said were here for you Brother and you are in our thoughts and prayers my Brother!!! Mark did say rain!!! You need to be here. The mighty Mississippi is knocking on the front door. I am like you. Rather see a couple feet of snow than the rain. We had 15 inches in the last couple weeks. Seen some deer on a home made raft floating down a street. HA!! Gale good idea about getting together when Gus brings in the main rotor blade. If I know enough ahead I will try and drive up for a few hours!!! Hard getting way from work. Been contacting some of the guys whom don't visit the sight much. Letting them know about the 129th/VHCMA reunion. Hope double our size this year. Mark appreciate you having posted the info on our site. Except for the 1st Cav. The 129th have become one of the larger units at these reunions. Glad to see more and more new brothers finding the web site. And the old ones Bernie H. How is the wife and children,Known they have grown since Denver. To to rest of the 129th you all have a wonderful day. Barry send me your email!! Alex 129th 65-68 Qh!!!! Those of you that I promised a personnel roster. it will be after the Christmas postal rush. Hey! Mark do think we could have them put the site???? Give your input.
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 09:19:13 (MST)

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Mark, I talked to Gus and I hope that I can be at the Pop A Top when he delivers the blade. Whenever he sets the date will be fine. If some more 129ther's in the area could show up, that would be even better. Let's keep it in mind. Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In The World - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 08:28:03 (MST)

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Gus-I pray the holiday is full of wonderful memories for you, not emptiness with the void left by the "crossing over" of your beloved wife. She now joins the ranks of angels, like Larry, Tom, and Paul and so many others that watch over us. Find strength in your friends here on the 129th-we're on call 24 hours a day...7 days week. Allow us to be there...lovingly, Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 07:30:28 (MST)

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YO FLIGHT FAMILY, BROTHERS AND SISTERS OF THE 129TH. GOOD EVENIN' TA ALL......DID SOMEBODIE MENCHIN SPELLIN' IN HEAR?;-))))))))......WATTS DAT????????.....SEEMS I ALWAYS HAVE TO SAY SORRY FOR NOT CHECKIN' IN SO OFTEN. "SORRY".............WITH THE LOSS OF OUR FRIEND/WORKER AT THE POP-A-TOP DEE AND I HAVE BEEN HAVIN' TO PULL THE NIGHT SHIFT AGAIN. AT'S OK, WE DID IT BEFORE. TILL WE CAN FIND A REPLACEMENT, THATS THE WAY IT GOES. I AM AN OPPTAMIST. AND THINGS WILL ALL WORK OUT HERE......................THE JOINT IS HOPPIN' MORE THEN EVER. BEEN 1 YEAR SINCE WE OPENED THE DOORS. LOTS OF WATER DOWN TE URNAL........SPEAKIN' OF WATER, RAININ' LIKE CATS AND DOGS HERE THE LAST FEW DAYS. WAITIN' ON THE SNOW. ME LIKES THE SNOW. ME LIKES ANY CHANGE IN THE WEATHER. AM A RAINY DAY PERSON ACTUALLY. FEEL BETTER INSIDE WHEN IT DOES RAIN OR SNOW!!!!!!!!!!...................GOT OVER RUN BY THE 173RD AIR BORNE BRIGADE THIS WEEKEND AT THE POP-A-TOP. THE "HERD"...........WE HAVE A GROUP OF ABOUT 20 AND SPOUCES THAT SHOW UP EVER SO OFTEN AND LIKE TO PARTY AT THE POP-A-TOP. GREAT BUNCH OF FOLKS.......GAVE ME A MINTED B MODEL GUN SHIP AND DEE SOME BATH AND BODY WORKS LOTION. B MODEL LOOKS GREAT. AND THE LOTION WORKS ALSO;-)))))))))...........HERD GUYS OPENED GIFTS AT THE POP-A-TOP SATURDAY NIGHT. I HAD TOLD THE REGS THAT STOP IN TO COME AND PARTY WITH THE HERD. WE HAD A HOUSE FULL.......SOME STAYED OVER WITH DEE AND I. KNOWIN' THAT DON'T SURPRISE ANY OF YOU. YOU ALL KNOW THAT OUR DOORS ARE OPEN TO ANYONE THAT NEEDS A PLACE TO CRASH FER DA NIGHT................GOT UP EARLY AND WENT TO THE HERDS HOTEL AND HAD BREAKFAST WITH THEM ALL........WHY THEY LOVE DEE AND I SO MUCH???????...I DON'T KNOW.......WELL....MAYBE I DO........IS LIKE THE LOVE THAT WE FEEL FROM ALL OF YOU ALSO. STILL DON'T KNOW WHY YOU ALL LOVE US SO MUCH. I AM LAZY, I DRINK TO MUCH. I SMOKE TO MUCH, AND I.........WELL.........AINT REALLY NOTHING..........JUST ME......WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET!!!!!!!!!!DEE AND I LOVE YOU BROTHERS AND SISTERS VERY MUCH..........HEY GUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!........MAKE THE TRIP WHE EVER YOU WANT TO BROTHER. GOT A SPOT FER THAT MAIN ROTOR BLADE IN THE POP-A-TOP.....HAD A VET DROP OFF A L.A.W ROCKET LUANCHER THE OTHER DAY...VERY NICE ADDITION TO THE DACOR..........HEY RICK BENIDICK?????YOU STIL ALIVE OUT THERE???????????....VISIT ME, DRINK MY BEER, SPEND THE NIGHT AND THEN DISAPPEAR????????...WHAT UP WIT DAT BROTHER CAPTION AMERICA??????????????????.........BROTHERS AND SISTERS................NEVER IN MY WILDEST DREAMS WOULD I HAVE EVER THOUGHT THAT THIS 129TH PAGE WOULD TAKE OFF LIKE IT DID.....IS ALL BECAUSE OF YOU, NOT ME......HELL, SHIT FIRE ALL............I WASN'T THERE, BUT I STILL CARE............THE JOB WAS ALL DONE BY YOU...............WANT TO THANK ALL THAT HELPED OUT THE BU JACKIE WITH HER MUSIC QUESTIONS FROM YOUR TOURS.........ME THINKS SHE WILL GET A GREAT GRADE ON THE PROJECT...........YOU ARE A " BAND OF BROTHERS"......AND RISE TO THE CALL WHEN CALLED APONE.........THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!GOT TO SPOIL THE GRANDKIDS FER A FEW DAYS AGAIN AND WILL SEE THEM OVER THE HOLIDAYS ALSO..........,ABOUT THE FRONT LINES...........LOOKS AND FEELS LIKE TO ME, THAT THE RED, WHITE, AND BLUE IS DOING THE RIGHT THANG......I SUPPORT THE EFFORTS OF THE ADMINISTRATION AS IT STANDS TOTALLY..WE HAVE LOST A FEW, AND HATE TO THINK OF A BROTHER LOOSIN', A BROTHER, BUT THATS THE NAME OF THAT TUNE....................IN BATTLE, HEROS MUST DIE!!!!!!!!!!!......LISTEN CREW......AS SIAD BEFORE....BEEN BUSY./BUT A MINUTE DOES NOT GOES BY THAT WE DO NOT THINK OF YOU ALL.......WANT TO WISH ALL A HAPPY HOLIDAYS OF ALL FAITHS.........AND WANT TO CAPITALLOZE THE WORD " FAITH"......DON'T MAKE NO DIFF WHAT SIDE OF THE TREE WE BARK AT, THE BRANCHES ALL LIFT TO HEAVEN..............FREDDIE SKAGGS.....GIVE ME AN ETA ON YOU IN COLDWATER!!!! .......GOTTA GET SOME SLEEP YA ALL................ IT'S BEEN AN HONER TO BE HERE WITH YOU ALWAYS A BROTHER AND SISTER.............MARK AND DEE..........THIS BIRD HAS FLOWN......... "257".....INBOUND TO THE BEACON, AND CLIMBING TO 6,000...LETS GO HOME LARRY!!!!!!!!!!
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Sunday, December 16, 2001 at 23:31:20 (MST)

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Gus good to hear from you. I am deeply sorry about your wife, and if I can help you in any way please let me know.********* Matt I will be sending my request for shirts thanks cuos and Matt********Wink look forward to seeing you at the reunion again.******All of you brothers and sisters have a safe hoiday out there.
Rick England
USA - Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 19:03:43 (MST)

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Flight, Naw Casey, Knobody in the 129th misspels and makes erors, because I check mi dickcunairy. Thanks Dude, Freaky Freddie
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 14:32:16 (MST)

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Flight, I’ve got shirts………….Cups has sent me a load of shirts to distribute to all of you who are interested…….His only request is that you make a contribution to Mark to help keep this web sight up…………I ask that you send me a little something to cover the cost to mail them to you…………I haven’t had much time on the computer over the last couple of weeks, or else I would had made this post earlier……………..The shirts have the 129th logo on the front in color, and on the back is “You call we kill…..Cobras”……..One other note on the shirts is there is that little spelling error was the “t” is missing from strike. Not that many will notice…………..So all you out there that are interested send your request to:……….Matthew Casey……..19792 E. Greenwood Drive………Aurora, CO 80013………….My best wishes to all of you for the holidays………..Tails Clear Left………..Casey.........PS The vast majority of the shirts are XL, only a few Large.
Matt Casey <Mcasey1947@cs.com>
Aurora, CO USA - Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 08:21:26 (MST)

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Guess it is about time to I am glad all of you are still here. It has been some time since I have been on here. This has not been a good year for me. Most of you do not know but my wife of 22 years died very suddenly on 21 March 2001. I used to make it a point of telling folks, "I have not had a bad day since the 10th of March 1969." That was the day I was seperated from active duty. I can't say that anymore. From time to time I have dropped in and looked over the postings here and that has been a good thing. It has taken me some time but we are moving on with things. Thank's again Mark, Joe J., Rick E. and Gale B. I would have told you all about this befor, but those of you who know me know I tend to keep things to myself. Rick, glad to hear things worked out for you. Mark, when I get done with jury duty in Jan. and Feb. I may well take a trip to see you befor spring comes. WITH A MAIN ROTOR BLADE!!! I still have them both and your name is on one yet. Merry Christmas to all. Gus 8/67 - 3/69 Cobra 949 CE
Ted "Gus" Gustafson
MN USA - Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 02:08:33 (MST)

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Great wed site Mark.Looked at it the other night,will have to bring some of my slides too the reunion so you can put on site. alex good to here from you an yes its about time I get my ass , can I say ass on the wed site, in gear.I guess if I can show it I can say it,what do you say liz.hey rick, read about your disability, that great glad toreadit.Hi Gently,im gald you remember me but I guess thats kinda hard not too..Got any ideas what you girls might do it better be good ha ha! well all, its good to know your still with us. On a serious note for you all that have seconds thoughts about going to the next reunion, this will be my third one this year as the past years reservations about going and my feeling running wild but I fought them an won although Iwanted to leave on the frist day.the feelings are strong but one begins to settle down .then the rewards of the reunion start to take hold,ive gone though this in the past and im sure It will happen again Well I think thats enough from me,Peace ,love & happiness be with you all Merry Xmas Wink 03/69-10/70
wink <cobra129th>
lakeland lakeland , fl USA - Thursday, December 13, 2001 at 19:14:52 (MST)

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Flight, What about a Zippo lighter and someone who does engraving, that would have crewmens wings and the little map of Nam. I lost my Zippo long ago, is there someone who does that custom made stuff around?
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, December 13, 2001 at 12:59:04 (MST)

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Thanks! I'll look forward to touching base with Casey and getting something going now. Ron
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Thursday, December 13, 2001 at 12:16:34 (MST)

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Flight...Ron...Casey has some shirts last we spoke. I'll send out more when someone travels again to the states. I have over 200 left an will bring what I can to Phoenix. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Thursday, December 13, 2001 at 11:23:30 (MST)

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Good morning Flight: Barry the google eyed man. About time you showed something besides your tail end. Glad to see you here at last. Liz sent your christmas card to Ny. Forgot to tell her your like a bird and fly south. She got one heading to flordia. I will appreciate the help Rick. Just need to have some to keep our meeting room straight and have everyone sign in. As Vp I will be greeting the members as the sign in at the hospitality room. And breaking away to our room also. Gently my sister great job on the virtual wall. Well checking it out. Found one for Harry T. Whentzel he was a capt. anf was one of the 1st 129th kia's on 10/7/1966. I appreciate your thought about the reunion. And glad you and Joe felt part of the 129th and VHCMA family. Just think how your vietnam vets family has grown in the last couple years. And proud to have you as sister. Randy will try to get personel roster in the mail soon. To the rest of you!!! Glad to see all the commo. Fred haven't forgot about the social number for you. Just been busy at work. They thought it would be nice if I work 13 hour days. I don't think I look 20 again. The manager need his eyes checked. Well take my Brothers and Sisters!! Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Thursday, December 13, 2001 at 07:45:10 (MST)

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Good evening Flight! Jamie and I just booked our reservations for Phoenix. We'll only be there Friday and Saturday nights - so plan to make every minute count. OK Fred - get off your #$@#$$!#$ and do the same. Mark - check in NOW, or we'll all head your way first! It could be icky! Need to get a shirt - Jim Westwang (Smitty) was nice enough to give me one of his, and I'm wearing it out. Anybody got some? Can I use this one as a sample to get some made from our local screen printer? Any copyright problem? Is anyone else looking - maybe we can get something started. Let me know. Hope to hear from all of you. Ron
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 20:06:37 (MST)

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Sorry about the spacing and the grammar
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 19:29:27 (MST)

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Alex my first reunion was the best what a releazation can only come true. It did happen.Wink thanks for your caroespondencenm, yoiu r spelling is worst then mine. That must be the doctors keep telling us. That is I think correspondence is that more understandenable. I sur hope so. Alex if there is any thing I can do let know. I plan on stayin the whole week. Let me know when all these assories are ready. I will keep quite now my brothers and sisters please have a safe holidays. My brothers and sisters I recieved my disabilty this past week and I want to thank Bob H. Sam H. Rick vogel Larry B. Gus gustufson, Bill Whealan, And that Flint stone Flyer, The whole 129th . and Mark and this page for Larry, My first reunion and the people that helped. me there, and the dam puter. I am proud to have served with you my BROTHERS.
Rick Enlgand <bd431@mindspring.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 19:26:55 (MST)

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Good evening my friends. I was reading everything posted here and I was thinking. I have a friend here in K.C. that has a business making magnets. I think mim order is 36 pieces. If someone would sent me the art work I could get them made up for next to nothing. Ne1 interested. Also I have decided to join the fun in Phoenix this year. So I will c u there. Randy
Randy <kingcobra697@yahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 15:42:59 (MST)

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Barry!!!! What a long time it's been..thank God your children encouraged you to get a computer! Don't worry too much about the spelling there's only a few spell checkers on this site(Jim De Bates :>)))). It was wonderful meeting you at the re-union in Louisville and seeing your, well, there were several of you who thought you could gross us girls out by mooning everyone-but, ha! We're tougher than that. I'll have to talk to some of the women and figure out how to upstage you guys in Phoenix! Look out Land of the Sun, the 129th and Company will be landing in June! For those of you who have not attended a re-union yet----please, join us. It's every emotion you can imagine....it's very healing, warm, loving, fun, sad, and memorable. My first was last year, and though I am not a Vietnam Vet(my favorite vets)I was welcomed as a sister. Can't thank you guys enough for making me feel part of something that is so important. And having attended I can now put faces to the names(though I still can't believe you guys aren't all 18 or 19 years old!)of so many who populate this site. I find peace in you. Thank you for helping with my healing. Please plan on joining us----we want to meet you----or, as in some cases, re-meet after 30 + years. Geez-where did that come from? Must be the memory of meeting Barry Winkler and remembering his license plate: What was that Barry, "Cobra"? You're the man. Of course, there's that beautiful Ron Paye with that Harley that is unbelieveable!! Hugging you guys-oh yeah, get to "thevirtualwall" and "virtualwall" web sites to post remembrances to our friends whose names are on the real "Wall". With tender arms around you-everyday. Gently
Gently <gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 15:01:29 (MST)

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Hey Mark whats happening. My kids forced me into getting a computer,so here I am.Its not as confusing as I thought. Looking forward toothe re union this year.Not doing much down here in Florida but playing golf an loving it. hows everybody doing its been a long time since Ive been on the wed site,hope your all doind well. Thats all for tonight just wanted to let you Im alive an still kiicking. Ill log back on thursday night. - Wink 3/69-10/70 w
Barry Winkler <Cobra 129th. >
LakeLand, FL USA - Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 22:48:01 (MST)

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Oh my - Gently, that's an amazing site. Puts quite a lump in your throat. Thanks for all you have done, and will undoubtedly continue to do to keep it alive. It's stunning. God Bless You. Jamie DeBates (aka - Ron's spell-checker)
Jamie DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 18:24:11 (MST)

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Gently, It is a beautiful memorial.
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@home.com>
AZ USA - Monday, December 10, 2001 at 21:34:50 (MST)

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Gentleman and new little sister: Please go to http://www.virtualwall.org/last100.htm and note the memorial to Lawrence Jackson. This work is done by two Vietnam Veterans(my favorite type of veteran) who do it for free, out of the love of their hearts-what heros. Then please go to www. thevirtualwall.org and post a memorial of your own for Larry(and Mark). Let me know what you think. With a swelled heart-Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, December 10, 2001 at 08:59:39 (MST)

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I found this on Fesmire's homepage and wanted to share it with each of you and first time visitor's to the 129th website. This tells all about the VHCMA reunions. "So, where do we start? Those of you that have reservations about coming to one of these things because of the emotions or memories it may provoke. Lose them!!! Yes, we did have some emotional moments. Yes, we cried (even me). But, mostly, we laughed and remembered the good times. The commraderie, friendships, the missions, the sh** we pulled, how we lived and survived." I hope everyone that has had second thoughts about coming to these reunions will now reconsider and join us. Information on the reunions can be found by clicking on the links of our homepage and scrolling to the VHCMA link (www.blu.org/vhcma/). Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 14:15:55 (MST)

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Brother Fred!!! Looking for caps? The guy making them in Louisville at the reunion is from Jackson,Tn. Here is the info for everyone. 1st Aviation Px don_summers@hotmail.com Phone#901-424-9793 Also found a shop in Gatlingurg,Tn. called the Belt Rack. He can order belt buckles with a huey with the door gunner on them and Vietnam Veteran above . Sharp belt buckle.Yes got one! The buckle #1133 Belt Rack Phone or Fax 865-436-4519 or 715 parkway suite#9 Gatlinburg,Tn.37738. I hope this info will help you all. Glad to be any assistance to any of you. Alex 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 10:58:48 (MST)

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Flight, I'm sorry to have to report that we have lost a 129th Brother. He has not been on this site, but, I've been in contact with him since Nam. I just received the news from his wife. Sp/5 James T. White passed away of cancer on Oct 26,01 at the age of 58. We spent our tours in Nam together in 67-68. I'm sure his family would be thrilled to be bombarded with cards of sympathy and I'm also sure that I don't have to ask twice of his 129th family. This is a great family of brothers & sisters and I luv ya all. Please mail cards to: Mrs.Ann White / 151 Moss Spring Hollow Rd / Centerville, Tn 37033-4153. Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 10:15:07 (MST)

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Hello my good friends I haven't checked in for a while; just thought I would give you an up date. I have now sailed to Australia (I have been here three months, it is great ) but I will be unable to sail to Viet Nam. Piracy is rampent not to mention that I would be arrested even under emergency conditions if I enter Viet Nam by boat. So on Dec 31st (that is the day I left Nan in 68) I am flying to Phuket Taihland, will spend some time there and then on to Natrang and Quin Non. I will try to hire a small air craft and get some pictures of the area, with out the bomb craters,for you. a special howdy to Don Johnson,Gus, and Macgreger. Happy Holidays to all Joe Johnson I
Joe Johnson <cobra073@yahoo.com>
Morongo Valley, calif USA - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 23:43:45 (MST)

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Darwin, thanks for your response and answer, I sort of half new that Jim didnt get a bad report, i was just trying to give him a hard time. As we speak, Im writing up the report for school, again, I thank you all so much!!! It has been a great help. I was checking out the rest of your site, there is some pretty neat stuff on the site (um nice pictures boys).. bye Jackie
Jackie < bujackie@bu.edu>
USA - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 16:07:29 (MST)

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Bro Randy and the rest of the Bros and Sisters, You know I still have a 2nd Platoon Bulldogs business card, a guy name Charlie Solomon had them made up. About couple days before I derosed Charlie gave me a stack of about 100. Thinkin about it, Charlie could be a evil man,but in retrospect Charlie was on his 3nd tour of Nam and was about 30 or 31 years old a the time. His frist 2 tours were done as a marine, and he had been in Hue during the Tet of 68. I`m almost sure that he was a CC on one of those" bumble bees" that the marines had. But if you caught Charlie with about a half of bottle of Jack in him, he could be quite humorous and congenial. I think Charlie just thought some of us "younger guys" escapades was "kid nonsense". Charlie was not the type of guy you really wanted to mess with anyway. Some say Charlie could fly a helicopter as good as some pilots. NO OFFENSE GUYS, Just what I was told. Randy, I got a e-mail from one of the brothers, he gave me a e-mail and a phone number to contact this fellow that was at Louisville making hats. And of course Cobra`s should have black, that`s a legacy and tradition. I`m outta here Fred
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 14:02:18 (MST)

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Good morning to all of us. Fred I like ur idea of 129th ball caps. We should get a batch made up. Black for the gun crews however. Ron I am with u. He was only 20. Jeez by that age I had a year in vietnam and was crewing a gun. I wasn't confused. I was PROUD!!!!!!!!!!!!! A little story about the yellow cobra patch. In '67' the crew men of the gunship platoon wrote Shellby of the Mustang fame. (Hemi's Rule) We told him that our logo was the Cobras. So he sent us the patchs, keychains and white scarfs. That is were that patch came from. The immediate crew got the scarfs. I still have mine but it is pretty ragged. I am afrads to wash it as it will fall apart. My keychain was lost years ago. I also have a business card from the early days. It is blue and says Have Guns Will Travel. It was made up just for the guns. Ne1 but me remember those cards? Let me know who I can send it to and we can get it on our site. Are there ne patchs available as I would like to order some. Please help! Since I have found u folks I have renew an old friendship with an old pilot friend of mine. Good god he can remember things I had forgot about. All ur folks were u serve b4 m4 with me or after me, have a special place in my life. Thank u all Randy 9/66 To 7/68
Randy <kingcobra697@yahoo.com>
Kansas City , Mo USA - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 11:12:28 (MST)

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Brothers, Could anyone tell me if there is such a thing as a 129th baseball cap? And where I could get one, still have all my orignal patches, but would love to have one. Getting a little thin on top these days, so I have a large collection caps, but they are all sports teams. Thanks Fred
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 09:14:40 (MST)

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Flame.....You forgot the second two....Tact....I still don't understand that one!!!!Sir!!!Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 23:02:05 (MST)

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Jackie------It's great that a young person is taking an interest in what we old people did all those years ago. I think you have awakened a feeling of pride in us, someone is finally asking us about our experience, and that is why all the commo has been happening. Haven't seen so much chatter for quite some time. As to your questions, an RLO is a "real live officer". There were commisioned officers and warrant officers. Commisioned officers were supposedly supposed to have command responsibilty and warrants had all the privliges of an officer but had no command responsibility. Unless of course he was an aircraft commander(AC) then he outranked anyone in the aircraft including RLOs. OER-Officer effieciency Report-was usually done by your immiediate supervisor and then his supervisor got to add his 2cents worth. Cups didn't get a bad report. I was the one who wrote it. I think I gave him a low score in understanding. And to this day he doesn't understand why. And I'm not going to try to make him understand. I don't know if you have gathered that the people you have been communicating with are some very special people. We all had to be a bit gooffy to do what we did and then enjoy it. We had officers, warrants, and enlisted men, but when we crawled in that aircraft we were a crew. We listened to each other and took care of one another. And tho at the time many of us didn't want to make real lasting friendships, we are now finding out how very real and lasting those friendships were. I think I speak for all those RLOs and Warrants when I say that we knew who really made the whole thing work, And that was the two people in the back seats. We owe them much. Jackie, that is a short lesson on RLOs and OERs. Mark and Dee-our sympathy to you again. It does't get any easier but know we are all here. And to Gently, our tailrotor, when we get out of trim or seem we are going to spin out of control, you come with your kind words of encouragement and get us straight level again. We are gratefull. Cups--Saw Nolens picture on the wall. Emotional! Take care all---------Flame
Darwin Schmiedt--Flame <schmitty@santel.net>
woonsocket, south dakota USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 19:26:08 (MST)

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Hello everyone, thanks again for the input, Mark I think i like your job the best. Some of you have been making the important comment that you were my age when you went to Vietnam, to me that is crazy, I doubt I would have lasted a day, my friends don't even like it when i walk around town late at night. At any rate may i ask Jim and Darwin what an RLO and OER is (if you cant tell me that's fine) and how come CUPS you had a bad OER? sorry im just getting confused and Im very intersted by your site, but dont worry I wont' intrude for too long. Well its friday, im going to go do friday night things,have a good weekend all. take care
Jackie <bujackie@bu.edu>
boston, ma USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 18:27:24 (MST)

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I think Rod Stewart said that. What an awesome way to live. Katharine
Katharine Marsee <fricabeunme@msn.com>
Elizabethtown, KY USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 15:14:58 (MST)

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Flight, Youth is a mask, And it don`t last, So live it long, And live it fast..................What I Say, Fred
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 13:29:33 (MST)

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Well now that work is getting back to normal, what ever that maybe. Iam back to finding our brother of the 129th. Oh! before I forget want to wish our younger brother Fred Skaggs a happy birthday and many more to come. And to the first time brothers whom may check us out. Please log on and let us know your there. After christmas I will be sending out a mass email letting everyone know about the reunion in phoenix. And too encourage aLL TO LOG ON AT TIMES. Also have to get back to the duties of Vice-President of the VIETNAM HELICOPTER CREW MEMBERS ASSO. Which in phoenix I will take over as President. If anyone wants to join us. Can email me with there address and I will be glad to send a application. Annual dues are 25.00 There is assoicate memberships for the brothers that didn't fly as crew. This is a no-profit and non-political asso. Well on the lighter note. Glad to see all the commo. Ron-Liz is always correcting my spelling also. She always wondered if we all went the same school. She checks the log when I can't and let's me know whats going on over morning coffee. Mark will give you a call later. Need to check in with the younger Bro!! Gently appreciate the info about the virtual wall. And Cup's always good here from you! Was a real pleaure seeing you last year!! That reunion between you,Flame and Matt. I'll never forget!! Along with the presentation to OUR BROTHER MARK. I have relaized in the last few weeks with losing a few of our brothers to cancer and some having strokes. Life is so unpedictable and getting shorter. But, I am glad that the reunions and the moving wall in coldwater has given me the opportunity of meeting alot of my brothers and sisters. Memories and pictures to cherish through life. All of you are special to me. Your 129th!!! We may have not served at the same time. But, as a unit we built the 129th Assault Helicopter Co. from the ground up. And we all shared in that history. We lost some of Brothers along the way. But here we keep their memory alive. Here we have a very large family. Through the good or bad times we support and try to comfort those whom have gone through some difficult times. In closing Mark thanks for your deication and devotion to Not just Larry,and the rest of our fallen Brothers. But,caring enough to help any Brother or Sister whom has visited this web site. There is n't enough plaques or words that can express "OUR LOVE FOR THE JACKSON FAMILY". Thanks!!! Alex 129th 65-68 forever!!!!
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.net>
Memphis, Tn USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 11:51:03 (MST)

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Gale, My Brother, Thanks, that gives me a warm feeling, actually it`s the Heineken giving the warm fuzzy feeling. I want to ride in that Mustang sometime, feel that G-force again. Try to grab that 20 dollar bill off the dash. Been driving pick-up trucks for the last 15 years. I want to go FAST!!!!!! Just sittin here on the dock of the bay, listen to some Rascals and Booker T and MG`s on the box...........GROOVIN.......Thanks Again Fred
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 08:20:53 (MST)

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Fred, Happy Birthday to ya Brother! I'll have a glass of JP/4 today in your honor. Have a great day. Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In The World - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 06:37:24 (MST)

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Oh Freddie - me again. Forgot to wish you a Happy 51st Birthday! It's 9:20 in Montana - so east coast time must be your big day!! Did you catch it on the news today - 20 year-old Californian-turned Taliban brat said he didn't know what he was doing - cuz he was so young - (remember - he's 20) How many of us were 19 or worse... We were on helicopters - in a real war - fighting for OUR COUNTRY. No excuses. Shoot the turncoat bastard. I'm healed! I've forgiven the USA for how they interpreted Vietnam... Just shoot the bastard! And I'll heal more. He gave up his country - we fought for ours - the right thing. Off my soapbox. Night - night - after 50 you retire early!! God Bless Us All Ron
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 21:18:50 (MST)

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Oh Freddie! My wife looks over my shoulder and corrects my spelling! And says about the same things yours does!! But I don't drink espresso. Everything else... Thanks for remembering my butt. Uncle Sam sends me a monthly allowance (up to $390 now)just to think he's wonderful! I never did thank the little VC Bastard that shot me! So glad someone remembers my thoughtful side!! Knew I could count on you Freddie! Are you going to the reunion in Phoenix?? I'd love to see you - I'm easy to recognize out of this whole bunch - I wear glasses to read - am only about 30 lbs overweight - and losing my hair???? Can you find me?? OK - if you'll go to Pop-A-Top, I'll drive the 1600 miles and meet you - I'll be the guy with bandaid on my butt!!! From there, we'll carpool to Phoenix... Got no life - got credit cards - got sober wife to drive!! (and spell check) So good to let loose with this sight - Mark? Click Click - check in - know it's been a couple bad days - but we're all here remembering all the hope and healing you've brought to those still alive. You are moment-by-moment making a difference for us - your 129th family. So very sorry about your friend - but we're still here and need you and Dee. As do your beautiful grandbabies. Can't change the past - just look forward - we need you. In Montana - in the cold - in the snow - in the suds... Ron DeBates and spell-checking wife Jamie!! Love you all!
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 21:07:38 (MST)

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That's HaitianJim. Sorry
Jim Masencup <Jim AntilleanM@AntilleanM.netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince , Haiti - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 18:32:46 (MST)

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Flight...Kim...Tim...all the rest, we must all be on at the same time. Plug me in IM as HatianJim. Lets do this real time. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 18:29:57 (MST)

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Tim...If you are making reference to the little guy with the big thing holding the sheld up...I think I left that with you guys. I could never travel with something like that...a plastic girl friend maybe... but not that thing. Cups PS...Thanks for the cover.
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Pince, Haiti - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 18:24:45 (MST)

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Cups...why not try to put together a set from a saturday night at the club? The band ( always suspect VC) would start out with Telstar, the lonely bull: Follow with House of the Rising Sun....launch into something like; We gotta get out of this place...do an intro of the group...ON ORGAN...MADAME CAO KY...OUR DRUMMER NUYGEN GIAP!!!! Segue to break would be INNAGADDADIVIDA!!!!!! To go along with THE REEEVVVEEERRRRRR, ( I bet they never knew what that is ) We could always have some kikkin, or, a hooombooogur with fenfies, to go with the alcohol! 212 rolling in, going hot.....out Question...what were the slow songs? Innkeeper never was a very good dance partner, HA!
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 18:15:00 (MST)

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Jackie, I've been reading with interest all the info these guys have been providing to you. There's something about young ladies that makes us old f--ts unable to keep our mouths shut, or do I speak for myself? I still enjoy most of the music that I listened to when I was in Viet Nam. I grew up with the Beatles, Doors, Who, Paul Revere and the Raiders, The Beach Boy's, The Mamas and the Papas, The Association, The Four Seasons, Jefferson Airplane and so on. My favorite group, though, was the Moody Blues, who were one of the first groups to record all their albums with a full orchestra. I have always enjoyed classical music as well. To answer your question about what I do now, let me back track. I'm one of those who stayed on active duty, I know guys, LIFER GREEN, and retired after 26+ years service. Since I was stationed in Germany in 1990, I got an all expenses payed vacation to the sands of Desert Storm, where,in over 200 hours of flying I only got shot at once. What a let down. No adrenalin rush, no bad guys to shoot at, and worst of all, no Donut Dollies. Hey Cups, you remember the Strawberry Sundays at the Red Cross in Qui Nhon? I'll buy, if you fly. A couple of songs I remember singing on a regular basis at the O'Club were, "Leavin' on a Jet Plane" and "Ai-ai-ai-ai, All Good Pilots....... Well, gotta keep it clean. Cups, do you still have that Polonesian drummer statue? Good memories were made of that. Sorry to ramble, Jackie. After I retired from the Army, it took me a year to be hired by the Pierce Co. Sheriff's Dept. as a Deputy, which I did for a year. After that I flew helicopters in Saudi Arabia for six months, after which I quit. I really didn't like being treated like a slave. I am now flying for Petrolium Helicopters, Inc, and am the Lead Pilot at the EMS Base at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo, ND. I am planning to go down to Woonsocket to see Flame, and find out why he never wrote an OER for me. I never met the guy that wrote mine. Sorry for going on and on. Please forgive me. Has anybody heard from Rocky? I guess I had better e-mail him and see how he is. Cups, I'll be out your right door, checking your 42¡ gearbox. This is Bullwinckle, inbound for landing.
Tim Vreeman <timothyvreeman@msn.com>
Moorhead, MN USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 16:50:20 (MST)

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Men-I just found out that Cups hasn't been able to get to the "wa''" to see Paul Nolen-so here's the procedure for all of you" Go to www.thevirtualwall.org Then at the bottom of the page-scroll way down- find the word "search". It opens up a page for entering the name, city, state. Hit enter-wait-and it appears. From there you can also add a remembrance. So, if you know anyone, anyone, who died in Nam you can post a remembrance for him. And in many cases you'll be the first. Also, Kinko's is still doing the photo thing, so get your photos over there...if you can't let me know, we'll figure something out. Mark, dear, dear brother-have you posted a photo of Larry? My arms are around all of you. Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 14:30:58 (MST)

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Good Morning Dudes( Brothers and Sisters) sorry, was just checkin things out here and my wife sometimes likes to look over my shoulders and read the log also. She looked at me this morning and said," Fred your the baby of the "Wild Bunch", as she calls you all. And said," What do you mean? and she said," These guys are mature adults, no wonder you get in trouble for running your mouth". She has such a elegant way with words. But I do loose sight of the fact sometimes. That most of you guys were my "big brothers" when I was in Nam. You were the guys that taught me how to " keep my ass alive", for lack of a better statement. I found pictures last night of my 20th brithday in Nam, December 7th,1970. I wouldn`t be here today if wasn`t for you guys the in and outs of being man. I never had much of a relationship with my father, so alot of you guys filled that vaccum. That sounds odd but it`s true. I took a little bit from this person and some from another person and that molded who I am today. I know some of you were long gone by the time I got there, but your legacy was still there and it was passed down to me. A lot people over the years have told me that I was product of the 60`s, and I would reply," I`m a product of Viet-Nam". As a friend said," Nam was not the defining moment in life", but sure has had a effect on how I live my life. Some of us may not speak or always spell right, but we know what we`re takin about. Just a comment here, I looked in the newspaper this morning and saw " Friendly Fire" what a onxymoron that is. That`s phrase from Nam, they love to spin it so it has a softer impact on the public. Why don`t they say in plain english, " Something screwed up", I hate loosin our cowboys in Dodge City. God, I`m in a strange mood this morning, as a writer once said," Just tryin to stay above the scum of reality". Cups, I`m just sittin back here in the well lookin for a sanpan in the open. Rhome,My Homie, We`re gonna find Curt and see if we can put the 1st of the 2nd back together, I still have a patch that we had made. Casey, I`m still tryin to find ole"Ruby Bergonia". Marky Mark,Your My Homie Also, you keep your head, if it wasn`t for you we wouldn`t have this place,someday soon I`m gonna blow in to the Pop-A-Top like a cool summer breeze. Kim L. my kindered spirit friend, got you down in my address book as "My Maine Guide", I`ll keep in touch, you got good mind keep that edge. Gently, your true lady in every sense the word, thank you for being here. Debates, Ron I don`t forget about your butt( no pun intended). Alex, Your a homie too, Tell Elvis I said, " Hello", and you quit working all those hours that will kill ya. Well just throwin some " olive branches" out here. Randy B. thanks for the e-mail that was real nice. You should put that history about the Cobra`s out here. Well flight I`ve drink to much expresso again. I`m outta here Fred
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 09:45:59 (MST)

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Goodmorning Flight: Bernie good to see on a steady bases. Thought we had lost you there! Hope the family is doing great. I bet those kids have grown. Cup's I finally figured out what you do for a living. Send out jokes and cartoons to all of us. Not a bad job. Ha! Mark known it was a tough day for you my brother. But one thing my friend you will always have us here for you!!! Looking for to seeing you all in Phoenix in June. each year our number grow. Our 129th has one of the fast growing rate in VHCMA. And glad to see everyone enjoying themselves at the reunion. Hope to double in size again this year. Jackie- I have been working for the last 20yrs. for one of thelargest auto parts chain in the us. It's called Auto Zone. Before that just bummed all over the warm south. Love the outdoors and going on trips to the mountains in East Tennessee with the wife. One note aout your research. I grew up in Barberton, Ohio. One guy whom I grew up with was part of the Kent State riots!! Small world!! Only talked to him once in the last 35 years. Did protest a movie deal he was working on. It was going to be called How the Vietnam War affected his life. He wasn't there! He'll learn one day (YOU CAN'T TALK THE TALK TIL YOU WALK THE WALK). We all here have taken that walk. Well Brothers and Sisters take care. Alex 1965-1968
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 09:40:39 (MST)

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Greetings Jackie, I guess I outta throw my two cents in also,after Nam I and 6 months later I was a civilian again and was disharged in Feb. 1973. I bummed around for 2 months then got lucky and got a job with the government as a tempory aircraft sheetmetal mechanic, got laid off 2 years later and bummed around for a year, then started as a laborer for a local roofing company for about 1 1/2 years, got lucky again and statred for the gov. as a aircraft sheetmetal mechanic again which I did for 18 years, and now I work in an office job I've had for 12 years. I got 5 years left till retirement. I can't wait, gets old coming here. Happy Holidays to you. "426 where still out there somewhere"
Bernie Hernandez
Ogden, Ut USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 09:23:38 (MST)

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I never learned to spell as you can see. Sorry Jackie
Randy <Kingcobra697@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 09:00:44 (MST)

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Jaxkie, After Nam I just bummed around from job to job. Finally I hooke up with a Vet Center in K.C. After 3 years I finally had my head on straight. I went on to be a nat'l sales mgr for an optics co out of Wyo. Retire and move back to K.C. 2 years ago. I am now 53 but 21 in my heart.
Randy <kingcobra697@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 08:57:33 (MST)

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Jackie.....I, before and after Nam have made a living at my hobbies, airplanes, boats and cars. I have been able to do this anywhere in the world I cared to go. I tried to retire once but that got old. No one to play with, eveyone was at work. It's been a full time job enjoying life, the world and most of all, good friends. Casey, clear left?...Nolen, clear right?...Flame, overhead?...The beer is fresh, bacon in the pan, gota do the eggs and go to the office in three hours. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 01:53:45 (MST)

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Just think Jackie....you are about the same age that most of us were in Nam. I'm 58 now and retired almost two years ago from the U.S. Postal Service with 32 years. I enjoy doing anything that I please as long as it doesn't have anything to do with a "schedule".I enjoy my Mustang 5.0 convertible and ,like I said, still love Rock & Roll music.I have a great "girlfriend" Debbie( that some of the guys met in Louisville)and I've become a fairly good cook. I visit this site every day to see what's going on with the 129th family and.....damn Mark....my glass is empty too. Later! Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 22:33:42 (MST)

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Hey there Jackie:-))))....good to see your como....from the looks of the music ya like ...you should of been born 50 years ago with the rest of us......OH Jackie!!!!...by the way.....I think I can speak for all....we don't mind being called boys......Specialy from a 21 year old.;-)))))))))).....OK Guys.....Jackie wants to know what we do "NOW".......Me first....I'm just a layed back old hippie that is retired and spends all day a a Bar and grille that my wife and I own now....dedicated to vets.......specaily to the 129th........NOW Jackie...........you ask a tuff question here!!!!!!!!....and some of the guys....welp.......even if they tell you the truth.........they are probably lieing as to what they do.......ha,ha,ha,ha...............hey guys...those that want to respond to Jackie's question as to what we do.........be seriuos, will ya;-))))))))).........hey CUPS...sept you;-))))))))))))))))))))))))))........sorry....feeling silly tonight......where in the hell did larry's lighter go.....damb.......class is empty also.....be right back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......clear left!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 21:40:11 (MST)

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Hey there boys, (well seeing I am 21 I should say men), again I appreciate the music comments, Iam trying my best to keep up with the names (let's try this again) I have to say they are a bit before my time, I am lucky enough to be a kid in the age of horrible pop music (nsync and britney spears...if you know who they are please feel my pain). As far as my music is concerned, not that you asked, I like the doors, the who, bob dylan and stevie nicks. Have a good night all, if you dont' mind me asking another question, what do you guys all do now, it's not for my project, im just curious. happy holidays
Jackie
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 21:16:25 (MST)

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Hey there boys, (well seeing I am 21 I should say men), again I appreciate the music comments, Iam trying my best to keep up with the names
Jackie
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 21:12:16 (MST)

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...as I speak....the "FLAME" shows up..........will I ever learn how to spell>>>;-)))..NYTOL
Mark Jackson
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 20:30:20 (MST)

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Evenin' Flight.............carried our friend/coworker to her final resting spot this morn. As often happens, my mind races from times like this, to "your times" of lost ones. be that atfter the war, or during. My heart goes out to all involved. One of the other carriers was a Nam vet,purple heart, and friend of mine and of our workers also. Setting beside him in church is when my mind started to wonder to you all. So many of you had to experience a loss. As I said, my heart goes out to you!!!!!!!!!!!!..........................good to see all the como about the music, thatnks for helping Jackie out. I am sure she will use the info in her report. Matter of Fact....."Jackie"....you have to let us know what grade you get on it?????????......Cups!!!!!.you be right....Flame is slackin';-)))))....Freddy!!!...keep the chatter up brother, see ya soon!!!!!!...........................RANDY AND VIC.....WELCOME HOME AND BACK TO THE 129TH Gently....always a our please to hear from you.....Bernie...sey hey man!!!!!!....tried to sleep, but could not find it yet tonight.........will try later......had a NVA, and a Cicle and Hammer flag droped off at the bar last weel. Gonna hang then. Had one guy tell me that I need to be listed in the Ohio Tourist book as places to stop for Vets..... ................Inbound cold............gonna lay my guns to rest tonight....THANKS TO ALL. ALWAYS A BROTHER AND SISTER.....Mark ans Dee
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 20:28:16 (MST)

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Flight-----While lounging in our plush abode we RLOs generally listened to opera and other refined music. Actually I think we all pretty much listened to the same stuff. I to liked the country western music as did Bernie and I remember The Eve Of Destruction. Have several oldie stations and still prefer those good old songs. When I got home from Nam I frequented the good old cowboy bars and relished the country tunes. Had so much fun damned near killed myself. Cups--We didn't have to dream up those bad things we wrote on your reports. Some gave ample fodder to draw from,and you know who you are. All in all the best bunch of people I will ever know-----------Take Care
Darwin Schmiedt--Flame <schmitty@santel.net>
woonsocket, SD USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 20:22:21 (MST)

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Flight....Just a quick observation....I noticed Flame has been conspicuous by his absents in the music quest. I often wondered what the RLOs were listening to in their luxurious abode while dreaming up nasty things to write about us on our OERs. I remember not having much time to listen to much music due to flying so often and so long due to the Bad Captain in maintenance reporting more craft flyable than were so he had a good OER. Then there was the Club. I still can't listen to "Rolling On A Reevveer". How about it Good Captain. Tell us your inner and dark music craving thirty years ago....Sir! Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 18:19:53 (MST)

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Hey flight I listened to some of these artists growing up and also in The Nam, Buck Owens, Charlie Pride, Johnny Cash, B.B King, The Osmonds, Chi-Lites, James Brown, and many other groups too list, sure brings back many memories while contour flying. I wouldn't have missed for the world. HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE CREW OF "THE 426"
Bernie Hernandez
Ogden, UT USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 14:15:39 (MST)

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I'll be there the whole week. I have been looking for a golf course already. anything laet me know. Be careful out there brother
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 14:14:05 (MST)

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Goodmorning Vietnam!!!!!! Oh!! I( almost forgot I am home. First WELCOME HOME TO OUR NEW BROTHERS!!!!Randy found you on the personnel roster. And Victor I have't got the personnel roster from the time we were there in 65. But still working on it. To the the rest of you. Glad to see my family in good spirits and kicking up those memories on the oldies. Ya'll too young to remember the ass kick'in song of 65. From Maxwell AFB. Alabama to Vietnam every stop on the C-130. Stop the only music was " EVE OF DESTRUCTION " by Barry McGuire. Rainer and Glenn will defintely will remember it. Wal_Mart was selling a CD It's called VIETNAM A MUSICAL RETROSPECTIVE it's narrated by Adrian Cronauer. Great CD. Well Fred Skaggs am proud that your home with us. Gently my sister always glad to see you here. Tell Joe I said hello. Rick England my need some help this year at the Phoenix reunion. Mark sorry to hear about your friend. Well Brothers and sisters!! must close for now. Take care!! Alex 1965-1968 129th forever!!
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 11:10:18 (MST)

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Hey guys, your music input has been great?? I get so excited when I noticed you responded!!, This weekend I'm going to try and put some of this info together and see what I come up with, thanks a million, and thanks again MARk happy holidays Jackie
Jacqueline Roche <bujackie@bu.edu>
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 10:37:29 (MST)

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This is my first time to try and locate old friends. I was with the 129th in nam from 9/66 to 7/68. I was a crew chief on slicks for a couple of months and then went to the guns. Hence my handle kingcobra. My ship was a heavy gun and the tail # was 929. Is there ne1 who was there during that time who I might know. Please contact me at kingcobra697@yahoo.com. Anyone who can give me any more infr on ur group please let me know. I am going to try to get to the reunion. Thanks Randy Burnett Spec-5
Randy Burnett <Kingcobra697@yahoo,com>
Kansas City , mo USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 09:06:42 (MST)

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Wow Fred! Can you pick the music! Warren Zevon, Traffic, etc. You took me back to some interesting times with those choices. I'm going to stay there for awhile, and smile. On another note, I was driving to work today and at a stop sign a man next to me rolled down his window and asked me where I got the bumper sticker on my car(Vietnam in-country ribbon, given to me by my boyfriend). I jumped out of the car(screw the traffic) and gave him my Vietnam Veterans Chapter 324 Associate member card and told him to call me, that I'd get him a sticker. Then he asked me if I went to the Veterans Day Parade and I said "Yes"-----at that point he told me I hugged him on the sidelines during the parade, and smiled. What a day I'm having! God bless you guys, and again Fred, thanks for the memories. Gently
Gently <Gentlyj@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 07:04:59 (MST)

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Anyone remember the designation of the Maintenance Detachment that was with the 129th. I was one of the original members when the units were activated at Campbell. Most of us came out of the 801st DS and as I recall Sgt Fuller was the 1st Sgt. Any of you that were a part of that group drop me a line at RibbonMaker@AOL.Com.
Victor Hoy <RibbonMaker@AOL.Com>
Mansfield, TX USA - Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 23:35:22 (MST)

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Flight....heads up....Fred....Atta Boy, even never knowing your music, which are most of my fav's I knew there was a reason we kept you around thirty years ago, you had it in ya. I told you to post "Sanpan Freddie". You didn't so if you don't mind (I don't care) I'm going to. Flight....for those of you who don't know Fred this will give you a little incite of the man. When he first contacted me he was a little apprehensive about coming here, as I was. Please all...."Welcome Home Fred"....here we go.... "Cups, It was great to hear from you!!! It`s kinda funny how I found this site. I was researching some WW2 history , because of a TV show about the 101st Airborne; I clicked into Wars and saw Viet-Nam, so Iclicked again and saw Viet-Nam Units then I clicked Aviation and here I am. Now," Sanpan Freddie" the story; I was flying a 26th Regiment"Charlie Charlie", which everyone hated, because it was resupply mission for R.O.K. companies around An Son and Qui Nhon. I was very boring, need I tell you. Now DePiazza(DP)was my AC and Snapper(I forget his real name) was PP. To make a long story short, for some reason the Koreans let us go at 2 o`clock in the afternoon. So we went Qui Nhon to top off and go on home to An son. Well Snapper was a FNG and had said he had never been in the helicopter when the guns were hot since he had been in Nam. Well on the way to refuel,Curt Franks, my CC,(GREAT GUY), said,"DP lets go and fire our guns on the ocean". So DP being a IP was somewhat reluctent, but he said,"OK, but let us go south to a place that safe". So here we south of Qui Nhon somewhere, when we get there DP said,OK guys go ahead and fire.Now I said,"DP is this a "free fire" zone"? DP said," No but no one should be here anyway". Well we begin firing our guns, we`re about 500 to 600 yards off the coast, and as I`m firing, I notice a sanpan with three people in black outfits in a sanpan coming out the mouth of a river that empied into the sea. So naturally me being 19 and a little aggressive at the moment,I aimed my gun toward them. Now my tracer rounds were hitting hitting 75 to 100 yards away from them, but in their direction. At that moment DP scream,"What in the hell are you doing Skaggs"? Then he banked as hard as he could to the 9o`clock position, my gun was strait toward the sky. As he leveled out,a F-4 flew directly under us. There was no radio transmittion between the F-4 and us. Well it was silent for about ten minutes, then DP said," Skaggs I well never fly with you aga in". I think Snapper was in a state of shock,of course later on,Snapper would become a maintenance pilot for Sgt. Sullenberger. I don`t think Snapper really wanted to be acombat slick pilot. Well as soon as we got back to An Son,DP ran to flight shack and told Sgt Meeks what had done. Later on Meeks came over to me and said,"Skaggs if no one well fly with you, you`re off flight status and back to the field'. Well I had never been in the field to begin with because I was OJT gunner. My MOS was 05B20(Radio operator). I was scared young kid and thought this is it!!! But good ole Curt told Meeks he wanted me as his permanent gunner, and Meeks said only if the pilots will fly with him". But I do remember that went no father than the 2nd platoon at the time. Curt told me later that he had seen the sanpan drop a motor in the water and head back up river like a ski boat!!! But this is the most important part of the story is, the next morning I was scheduled to fly with Curt and Meeks said to me ,"I pilots refuse to fly with you,thats it". But yourself,Joey Priebe, Mr.Weaver,Mr.Muirhead Mr.Jobe, Mr. Wightman, all told told Meeks you had no problem with me. And as you walked away you said," Besides Skaggs weapons always fire and never jam". You guys probably saved my life because I had no experience in the field and was already scared to death. SO THANK YOU SO MUCH CUPS " YOU DA MAN". Well life is good now we lived in Bergschenhoek,Holland for 2 years it`s about 10K`s from Rotterdam airport. It was out in the country side and was so story book. Before that we lived in Brussels,Belguim and Barcelona,Spain, Milan,Italy. Plus the travel was wonderful. My wife said you work for a chemical company and expat yourself, so you the benefits of that. My wife was a senior system engineer for Ashland Chemical, we went over for the big change over from 1999 to 2000 computer software. She says it was the biggest scam pulled on the public in years. Almost like Nam. Well MY BROTHER, it`s great to be back in the 129th fraternity. Talk to to you later my friend. P.S. I`M STILL WONDERING WHAT HAPPEN TO THE OTHER 650 PEOPLE WE SAVED!!! E-mail me back, also we are not YUPPIES,I hate yuppies!!! STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE YEARS!!! CRAZY FREDDIE"...Thank you Fred.....Casey..Flame..How are we doing?????????????
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 20:41:04 (MST)

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Lurch, You mentioned Conley..what was his first name & where was he from? There was a peter pilot named Taylor Conley from my hometown that came in the 129th in 68. I ran into him once and I rotated soon after. Gale
Gale Berad <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 12:22:09 (MST)

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Good Morning Flight,This is Fred, now I`m not going to take a angry tone with this, but enough of this. I used the wrong forum in which to voice my opinion. I`m not going to ruin something here that is so honorable and good. This is suppose to be a "safe harbor in stormy seas" for everyone. So in honor of Mark who started this site as honor to his brother and us all, enough is enough. I probally drink to much expresso and I become a Exciteable Boy, as Warren Zevon would say. So let`s all get back on the front porch and start "pickin and grinnin". There is no more problems. Since we are talkin music, that`s my frist love, besides my wife. Folk music, now I listened to a lot of Chad Mitchell Trio, Kingston Trio, Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger." Hang Down Your Head Tom Dooley" is still one of my favorites. Also enjoyed Arlo Guthrie`s" Comin In To L.A., that wasn`t really folk, but it spoke for the times. In Nam I was kinda strange kid(imagine that). I listen to a lot of jazz, Miles Davis, John Coltrane,Eddie Harris( he was the frist to amp his Sax) it was a new sound. I loved big booming horns, so Glenn Miller, and Tommy Dorsey was not not out of the question. So when Blood, Sweat, Tears and Chicago came along and fused rock with jazz, that was so fresh of a sound it was great. Traffic also played into big part of that era. John Barleycorn Must Die album is still classic, If you listen to it, there`s folk,jazz,rock all in one package. But honestly as I get older I enjoy the old blue grass music, Ralph Stanley, The Osborne Bros. Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs and Foggy Mountain Boys. "Up This Hill and Down" by the Osborne Bros. is some good pickin. Earl Scruggs was one the frist music people, to come out against the war. And the Doors, anyone that was in Nam, has lived " Strange Days". I can go on and on, as your all probally thinkin. To much expresso again Fred
Fred Isaac Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 09:05:51 (MST)

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Hello flight, I am struggling through another sleepless night and decided to check out our sight. I remain uncertain as to what the recent controversy has been about . . . I certainly hope that it doesn't go back to my friend, Larry "Thor" Thies, and his asking me for info on one of our classmates. I have noticed that since that time Thor has not posted an entry and it seems that Fred Skaggs has been troubled by the situation as well. To Fred -- please believe that I did not mean to be offensive in my comments about Thor or our classmate Hazel. I felt I needed to provide everyone with some insight into the kind of person that Larry Thies is and to state that I believed he held Hazel in high esteem. I did not intend to create any ill will or bad feelings, but if I did then I hope you will accept my sincere apology. I also hope that we will hear again from Thor. Those of you who did not know him missed out on serving with an outstanding pilot and a truly good guy. To Jackie, the young lady who asked about the music we listened to when we were young. I can tell you that while some folk songs were popular that our era was dominated by rock and roll. I do remember enjoying some of the music of "Peter, Paul, and Mary"; "The Kingston Trio", and especially Arlo Guthrie's "Alice's Restaurant." When I arrived at the 129th AHC our Commanding Officer was an outstanding Major named "Anderson" and sometime during my tour he received a promotion to Lt. Colonel and we lost him as he moved up the chain of command. He remained stationed at Lane Army Heliport and with some regularity we would see him at the Officers Club. In addition to drinking away the fear and loneliness we felt, we often sang what could best be called drinking songs. Most of them were filled with profanity and sexual innuendo, what can I say most of us were twenty or twenty-one years old when we arrived in-country. Anyway, somewhere along the way some of us worked at changing Guthrie's song around to a sort of tribute to Major/Lt. Col. Anderson. We decided that the O-Club was "Anderson's Restaurant" and whenever he would show up we would rise and sing to him. The only lyrics I can remember are as follows: "You can get anything you want at Anderson's Restaurant.--Oh well, you can get anything you want at Anderson's Restaurant.--Walk right in and sit right down--pour beer on your buddy and tear the place down--cause you can get anything you want at Anderson's Restaurant!" We liked the guy and sang out of respect for him, but I remember him cornering me one night and asking me to please put a stop to the singing of our little diddy! We had some wild times at the O-Club. It still amazes me the high we got by pouring significant quantities of alcohol on top of our elevated levels of adrenaline. I found after returning to the states that I couldn"t drink nearly as much without the rush provided by flying in the Highlands . . . out into the "Badlands" as we used to call it. As for the music I liked most, well I loved The Stones, Eric Burdon(sp.) and the Animals, of course Jimi Hendrix, The Cream, The Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, Santana, Steppenwolf, etc. We listened while we flew using our ADF to tune in the Armed Forces Radio Network out of Qui Nhon. It was an odd little war . . .it was the helicopter war . . . it was the Rock 'n Roll war! I remember flying into hot LZ's with Conley and Shaky blazing away on their '60's and Jimi blazing away as only he could. Our music and our missions often established some truly significant dichotomies! We called the States -- "The World" -- partly because Vietnam seemed so other worldly. I've rambled on long enough. Maybe I can get to sleep now. Take care everyone, Lurch out!
Keith "Lurch" Weisheit <rkweisheit@aol.com>
Evansville, IN USA - Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 02:07:00 (MST)

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http://mrmom.amaonline.com/asoldierschristmas.htm check this out it was passed on to me by another brother.
Rick England
USA - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 19:03:08 (MST)

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Sorry to hear about your friend Mark talked with her couple times on the phone. please send my sympathies to the family. Friends are hard to lose we are all still trying to heal from that. How is Dee doing and the family? Jackie my music that I listen to was and still is Doors steppen wolf Jimi Hendrix soul music blues like bb king buddy guy johnny lang Eric clapton those styles. If that is any help? Be careful out there flight, seeing diffrent colored tracers and they all hurt.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, AZ USA - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 17:24:33 (MST)

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Hi Jackie,nice to meet you. My name is Lloyd Robinson (Robbie to all who knew me while I was in Vietnam) 1969/1970. Like Gale Beard, I really didn't listen to much folk music at this time. Arlo Guthrie's "Alices' Restaurant Massacre" Was about the extent of the folk music I listened to. What I listened to at the time I was there and when i came back was Steppenwolf, The Guess Who, Beatles, The Doors, 3 Dog Night, Jethro Tull.
Robbie <hobbes@kodak.com>
Rochester, ny USA - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 08:25:39 (MST)

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Jackie....I tried your posted address and my service tells me there is a format problem. Email me so I can get back to you. I was in to folk before most folks I knew back then. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 05:46:09 (MST)

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...........GOOD EVENING FLIGHT.......I CALL FOR A CEASE FIRE. THATS ALL I AM GOING TO SAY ABOUT THAT......ACTUALLY, IT DOESN'T MAKE ME FEEL VERY HAPPY ABOUT WHY I STARTED THE SIGHT. SO PLEASE.......GOT TO MANY OTHER THINGS TO THINK ABOUT.........FIRST THINGS FIRST. CHECK OUT THE RESENT POST IN HERE FROM Jacqueline Roche. I WOULD LIKE IT IF SOME OF YOU COMMENTED ON HER QUESTIONS TO TRY AND HELP HER OUT IN HER PROJECT. THINK OF IT AS A LIL' OF THE 129TH BEING PUT INTO A REPORT OF A STUDENTS. I AM SURE THAT JUST ABOUT ALL OF YOU COULD MAKE A REPLY, OR HAVE SOME THOUGTHS ABOUT IT ALL.............BAD NEWS FROM THE FRONT LINE AT THE POP-A-TOP. WE HIRED A WONDER LADY ABOUT 3 MONYHS AGO. HARD WORKER, PLEASENT, AND FUN TO BE AROUND. SHE WORKED THE NIGHT SHIFT FOR ME MONDAYS THRU THURSDAYS AND PULLED A SHIFT ONE NIGHT OF THE WEEKEND ALSO. THAT GAVE ME SOME TIME TO BE AT HOME AND HAVE SOME WHAT OF A NORMAL LIFE WITH DEE AGAIN. SHE HAS PASSED AWAY FROM A BRAIN ANEURYSM. HER HUSBAND, THAT SHE JUST AMRRIED THIS YEAR, IS A 28 YEAR CAREER MARINE AND A VERY CLOSE FRIEND OF OURS. WE MET OLNY ABOUT 3 YEARS AGO WHENH HE AND I WORKED ON BRINGING THE TRAVELING VIETNAM WALL TO COLDWATER. SINCE THEN WE HAVE BECOME BOTHERS. AFTER THE EVENT HE WALKS AROUND LIKE A LOST PUPPIE, DEE AND I HAVE BEEN HELPING HIM MAKE ARRANGEMENTS, AND HE HAS ASK ME TO HELP CARRY HIS WIFE TO REST WEDNESDAY. I WILL WITH HONORS. SHE WAS A GREAT FRIEND AND A GREAT HELP AT THE POP-A-TOP. LOVED BY ALL SHE CAME IN CONTACT WITH. WE WILL MISS HER IN MORE WAYS THEN ONE. SHE WORKED FOR ME THURSDAY NIGHT AND AFTER CLOSING TOOK ILL AND WAS CHOPPERED TO DAYTON FOR AN OPERATION THE NEXT DAY. SHE NEVER WOKE UP FROM THE OPERATION. HER HUSBAND PULLED THE PLUG ON HER FRIDAY SATURDAY MORNING. REST IN PEACE CHRISTINA MEDAUGH. KEEP TALKING TO EACH OTHER FLIGHT. IT'S ONE OF THE INLY THREADS THAT LARRY AND I HAVE WITH EACH OTHER. HE IS A PART OF YOU, AND YOU A PART OF HIM. DON'T LET HIM SLIP AWAY FROM ME AGAIN............................TAKE CARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS.........MAKE EACH DAY THE BEST ONE YET. BEST WISHES FOR THE HOLIDAYS TO ALL...............BE YE OF WHAT FAITH OR RACE........................GOOD NIGHT FAMILY.......LOVE.... MARK AND DEE
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 18:33:49 (MST)

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Hi Jackie, Nice to meet you. Personally, I never was really crazy about folk music. Most of it that I remember was protesting the war. I listened to the Supremes, Beatles and most Soul music. Every time that I hear "Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding, it takes back 33 years. I played in a Rock band after I got home and I still prefer "that good ole rock & roll". Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 18:31:52 (MST)

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Flight, Please don't be dragged into this silly "bickering". This is a "friendly zone" and we "all" need to do our part to keep it that way. I thought that this subject was dropped. The only colors we should be concerned with in here is "RED, WHITE and BLUE". We do have outsiders that read these posts, so,let's show a little more respect for our fallen 129th Brothers and to Mark for his part in creating this "home" for us. Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 18:16:54 (MST)

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Hello All, I was given this posting by a Mr Mark Jackson,who thought perhaps some of you would be willing to help me out with a project. I am a 21 year old student at BU and I am doing a "pseudo radio script" talking about what the veterans of Vietnam thought about the folk music scene. What music did you guys listen to, in Vietnam, when you got back, ect, ect. Was there anyone in particular you liked alot, or disliked, and songs? I am interested in any info you can give. I really appreciate your help guys, Im going to go back to reading some of your stories, they are incredible!!! Have a great Holiday!! Jackie
Jacqueline Roche <bujackie@bu.edu>
West Brookfield, ma USA - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 17:57:56 (MST)

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Well, looks like it`s becoming a " free fire zone". Let me share something with ya`all, oh!!! I received some e-mails. One brother let me know that when "I" said "colored guy", that the guy that shot at me was way out of line. Well to that brother, I`m the one who got in his butt, for saying that!!! To that brother I say," Read with some understanding, not just read. Kinda re-inforces what I feel. You know I never once remember my grandparents saying "colored man" and they were from the 90`s, 1890`s. So I don`t buy into the fact that someones from the 40`s, 50`s,60`s. That`s taught behavoir. Another brother e-mailed me and said," Fred you know Viet-Nam was not my defining moment in life" and do beleive he is right. Maybe us old librals are still a little to heavy for ya`all. As far as middle class white guys, I don`t know about you but I`m a " dirty white boy". Shit, at my age,I love to be called boy, makes feel like I still have a little bounce in my step. Oh well I can`t change a thing now, I`ll just keep on walking forward to that beat of diffrent drummer.
The Skaggs
USA - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 16:48:53 (MST)

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Good Morning Flight: Well a few minutes away from this 80 hour work week. Well I hope everyone and their famlies had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I had chance to read some the postings. It's good to see the commo. I got an email from Brother Fred Skaggs. It's seems he sent out over 28 emails saying he was sorry about comments on Oct. 26th. Where larry mentioned a COLORED GUY. And Fred replyed we should call them BLACK MEN. Brothers and Sisters when I seen theses postings I took them in the wrong way. I don't know Fred and thought maybe he was offended because he may be Black. Like I say I didn't know!! Fred and the rest of my 129th brothers and sisters. We are here to share our memories and love for BROTHERS. I have wonderful 129th family in all of you and that inclues you Fred Skaggs. I feel proud that Fred decided to email me. He felt that everyone didn't want him here because only 2 respones from 28 emails came back to him. So, please take second to sent a email to Fred Skaggs and let him know we want him as part of our 129th family. I was one of thoses middle class white guys from Ohio, whom with a 10 grade education whom fought in Vietnam and eventully getting an GED FROM THE ARMY. We all have come a long way to over come alot of our emotions that were and still are being carried in our hearts and minds. Remember were here for each other. Well being the Vice-President of the VHCMA has had it's ups and downs. The hardest is seeing our fellow Brothers being stricken down with stokes,heart attacks, here last week a Brother lost his battle with cancer.I can't explain my thought of theses loses. In 98 I decided to start having the 129th reunion with VHCMA's annual reunion. I realized most of you flew in different units and this was a great opportunity to met others that you served with. Each year theses reunions get larger. I have had the honor to met quite a few of you. And your a great group of men and women. I am thankful to Mark and Dee for their endless effort to maintain our 129th page whom is deicated to Mark's brother Larry (POP-A-TOP) Jackson and all our fallen brothers. When I found this site I noticed it would be nice to have all our fallen brothers names on it. One email to Mark with this thought and he had those names there. Since then Mark and his webmaster has crated a great site for us. That means all of us!!! Hey!! some times we may have misunderstandings or take things in the wrong way. But, we are only human!! We come from every walk of life. Even though we all are different,we all share a common bond.We spent at least a year or more of our lives together in Nam. And that bond makes us BROTHERS AND SISTERS FOR LIFE!!!!! So inclosing my BROTHERS AND SISTERS let's put our eneries to finding the rest of our BROTHERS AND SISTERS out there!!! Fred my BROTHER PLEASE HANG IN HERE!!! THESE ARE SOME OF THE GREATEST PEOPLE YOU'LL EVER MET. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Saturday, December 01, 2001 at 11:01:49 (MST)

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