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thanks for the kind words all, she came thru surgery very well and today she is back on real food. I knew she was a keeper when I met her 30+ years ago. she is a lot tougher than I am. ........... BTW .... HAPPY SAIDY HAWKINS DAY ladies. Later Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 23:19:08 (MST)

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A cigar??? Not one of Monica's specials, is it? ...I grew up hating yankee's, didn't know I was one till I went south!!! What a shock that was!! Keep the warm weather coming our way please.
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 20:35:33 (MST)

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....Well Fred.......wow...a body perm?.......what part of the body? &;-{)/}-<--@---<.....hey...see my mustash and beard and I got a cigar in my mouth?........speakin' of Kinky, where is gently?????..........PopII
Mark
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 19:29:18 (MST)

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Mark....My wife said it could be a "body perm"....those are popular now. It makes your hair look thicker and more youthful.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 19:17:20 (MST)

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..yeah fred.....only guy in town with a fro...........watchin' Cops........good gast of carackters tonight......Oh Yeah...gale...My spellin' has inproved a Bits'..ones I dont know, I still do faneticlee......mark
Mark
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:46:01 (MST)

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Mark....you got a afro? They`re back style now...so you gotta keep up with what`s happen. I can dig that as square as I am. The Bosox influence in the midwest might be a Irish Catholic thing. There is few of those folks around South Bend, Indiana.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:37:06 (MST)

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Well, Mark...you were right down the road from my baby brother when you visited your granddaughter! I haven't been there in a spell. Was going to visit Larry Friday night but was late getting out of work. Dark in the cemetary when I get out there, but I'm not afraid. Larry takes care of me.
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:27:56 (MST)

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...Just sumpin' I gotta do every once in a while..........just got home from the granddaughter's house........she is to stinkin' cute......Sue next time you stop out to say hey to Larry, check out his Flag holder. I treated parts of it and sprayed it with clear coat. I think Larry will like it.........Carol Burnets on now.........gonna watch fer a spell.......Mark
Mark
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:18:46 (MST)

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Mark..my buddy..decided to go for a new look?? I probably WON'T recognize you by the hair, but the old spirit will still be there. Wow...I can't wait to see it!!
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:12:12 (MST)

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Evenin' Flight......Speaking of Hair...Sue you wont reconize me the next time ya see me. Dee gave me a perm today. I'm kinky. See!!!! &:-)
Mark
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:03:06 (MST)

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I assume the lost hair came when you were spinning on your head? (J. W. Wilson)
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 17:58:25 (MST)

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Hi Sue, Fred S, Amsterdam Hooligan and I got drunk and I lost my hair break dancing1
J. W. Wilson
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 17:51:41 (MST)

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LOL...Hi Greg. No movie...yet. I approached Mr. Mark Jackson about doing some type of literary project. We've thought about it for a few months now. Friday he dropped off some info for me to read regarding his brother's crash. I mentioned it on the site a couple of days ago and everyone is kicking the idea around. I love writing, am passionate about Mark, Larry, the 129th. So, I thought it would be a great idea to get imput from everyone on here. If it comes to pass, a book that is, a movie...you got it..."The Rock" will definitely portray you. Demi?? She's getting on in years...how about Nicole Kidman??
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 17:02:26 (MST)

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Hi Folks! Say, I don't know about this book/movie stuff. Just let it be known that if it ever got that far, I want to be played by "The Rock". Maybe someone like Demi Moore could play my Crew Chief.(Sorry Smitty- you don't have the legs). See ya, Greg
Animal
HI USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 16:54:41 (MST)

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I'm sorry, Fred, but I really didn't care for the BoSox '75 hats. Red Sox hats HAVE to be navy blue. I visited Boston for the fifth time last June. Was up there in '94 twice for the book research...met the Conigliaro family. And twice in between. Last June, the kids and I drove up there, visited Tony C's grave, the field in Revere dedicated to him..as that is where he played as a kid. Went to Fenway for the first time...day game, against, of all teams, the Tigers. No contest. My youngest son DID catch a ball, tho. Amazing. We have lots of Sox fans here in the midwest. Don't know exactly why. My connection is apparent, but can't figure the fascination with other people.
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 16:34:34 (MST)

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Jeff, go to ( www.capsize.com) punch "baseball". They are alot cheaper over the net, than a retail sporting goods store.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 14:35:41 (MST)

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Freddie, Where did you get the classic hat? I think I need one. Just got the new "field" hat this past fall but that one sounds too cool. Funny how many red sox fans there are that are not from new england. Must have something to do with my childhood or maybe it is because I just like the city. Hi to Kim. You must get over here this summer for some boating and tubing. Too old for the wakeboard stuff tho!
jeff
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 13:52:19 (MST)

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Jeff S. I got two new Bosox hats, one regular hat like they wear on the field, and 1975 Classic (red body, blue bill,white B) 1975 World Series with Cincinatti was the best WS ever played. Natti is my favorite team. I think Cups is sittin down in the Keys....coolin out. Gail Beard....you can talk and make your point very well. Finally someone said Ohio is God`s country.....
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 13:38:37 (MST)

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Don't know if this will work or not but this is a pic of that Huey. Just thought i'd share it.
Melody
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 12:14:07 (MST)

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Thanks for posting that site for in the shadow of the blade Fred. Really was neat to read about the whole thing. Coming up on the 4 th anniversary of my Uncle's death. My family keeps track of those things and my grandparents are still very raw about it...understandably. I wish I had talked to him about things. I get very upset about it still. He just wasn't able to talk about anything that happened while he was over there. So I raise a glass to him and all service men and women...past and present. Thanks.
Melody Pershall
Amarillo, TX USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 12:03:48 (MST)

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cups is one of our members that lives in haiti.
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 11:58:36 (MST)

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By the way, who is CUPS?
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 11:50:02 (MST)

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To Gale from Clinton, IN...Congratulations! You are getting married on my daughter's 23rd birthday! I have yet to meet you, but am slowly learning about the rest of these guys on here so I'm sure we'll become acquainted. Thanks to Jeff and Keith for the welcome. I may appear to be an outsider, but believe me, I'm getting so caught up in this site. The more you write, the more I want to know all of you. Beautiful Sunday here in God's Land...wonder if Mark is enjoying his Harley.
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 11:48:08 (MST)

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First of all, Debbie & I wish the best for Debbie Rainey & Donna Miller....hope you both have a quick recovery! Sue, WELCOME ABOARD & can't wait to meet you in Indy. Been reading all the commo.............can't believe all that's goin' on in here. I really don't have much of an opinion on the book right now. I would sound pretty boring trying to follow Alvis & Skaggs. Man, don't them two have a way with words? I'd give anything to be able to converse at their level. Of course, Mark doesn't do bad either. Ya know Mark....I think that your spelling has improved along with your new lifestyle. :o) ALVIS, man were you on a roll last night. I think you "poked" on almost everyone. You can pick on me, but, watch what you say 'bout my Stang! The only time that I remember you pushing my Mustang was when "you" pushed it out the way so you could get to that cooler of Bud lite........and that was with the emergency brake on! ;o) All I know Alvis............I don't want to be around when Gently gets a hold of you! Anyway, I've been awol for a few days. Debbie & I spent some time in Indy. Then our waterheater quit heatin' and I had to fix that. Luckily it was just the thermocouple. For those of you that know Debbie & me...............we are getting married on April 3rd, 2004 in Evansville, Ind. where her sister lives. We are going to L.A. in May,so, we'll make that our honeymoon trip. Later all. Clear!...Right? (too funny) Gale 67-68
Gale Beard
Clinton, In US of A - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 10:07:46 (MST)

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Welcome Sue! Sorry I went to bed early kast nite. I just saw where Aristide departed Haiti-which brings up has anyone heard from CUPS? You know Cups, North and I came into country the same day and left together-would hate to see something happen to Cups now! Freddie, I have a really good worn out red sox hat you can borrow sometime. It works really well to hide that "hole" in our hair. I always just tell people it was that damn flight helmet coupled with 4000 plus hours of constant hi-freq. Sounds better than male pattern baldness!
jeff
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 09:18:48 (MST)

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Sue....Welcome aboard...I'm a '52 model myself and a southern boy...129th 72-73
Keith 72-73
ms. USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 09:02:51 (MST)

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..Morning Fred......yeah...you are correct........thats who was on here too......I got him mixed up with hagar....sorry bout that..............Had fun in here last night.......headed for church, will be back on later this afternoon.......thanks to all for welcomeing Sue here last night. She is a good lady of conviction.........Waiting to read what Gently responds to about what Fred A said about her.......;-)))))))...always a brother, Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 08:00:56 (MST)

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Austin City Limits had Robert Plant on last night down here, he did some old Led Zep songs in a new style. It was really interesting stuff...
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 07:38:24 (MST)

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It's early morning, but I keep reading the comments from everyone on here and can't force myself to leave. Many thoughts run through my mind, remembering the sights on film each night on the evening news in the sixties and early seventies. I wore a bracelet on my arm of Maj. Robert Pietsch, a pilot, MIA, shot down over Laos. We weren't even supposed to BE in Laos, but we were. His remains have never been found. An Ohio man, brave. I am in awe of the people who surround me here. I am in the company of kings that flew the skies in a faraway place that few people had heard of. What can I say...I admire you all.
sue
USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 00:16:36 (MST)

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shhhhh freddy,not that kind of tokeing.Sammy isnt on ACL here,but,smile, jimmy page is.hey freddy,who does that new ghostrider song.? its been out for a while now,buts its new to me.I would like to buy it.ahhhhhhhhhh shit,another liberal.chuckle.Speaking of which,did you see rosey got married? gay wedding in the papers,on the local news,world news. Who cares,let them be.Dont want anyone peeking in my bedroom window and aint fixing to peek in anyone elses.Jeeze,who is it hurting to let two people,two adults,live as they choose?IT aint none of my stinking biz.It aint for me,but who am I to judge others? gday.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:54:42 (MST)

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pull up a chair and sit a spell.This site really is like a family.We may throw a few digs now and then,but we are here for each other.we support one another,hear about their joys ,and unfortunatly today,their worries.We band together as one when threatended or one of "the family " is hurt.Mark has done a great job with this site and its allowed us to find one another once again.I, for one,wondered about jim Westwang for 30 years,before finding him in here.We were good friends there and I flew with him whenever I had the oppertunity. We are still trying to find others.btw,I forgot to tell you to also watch out for alex,he will try to tell you he was the past president of this or that,what he really does is sell mid night auto parts from the back of his truck.Gently, the gentle one,well,she will try and tell you that she has met a bunch of us.she will also say something about smitty being a good dancer.gently will try and nice you to death, then get you beat up at a reunion for judging folks innocenly walking by.( actually, no one has ever seen her. we think its some bored kid or groupie out in california) Oh,dont let me forget shadow.he's one mean pilot that doesnt talk alot.He was so mean that even his shadow was scared to be close to him,thus the name.If you walked next to him,you had 2 shadows,his trying to keep you between .
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:29:46 (MST)

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....can't answer that Sue.........better get to bed soon though.........ya take care........I'm pullin' pitch........good to have you aboard Sue. Talk to ya next week somewhere in town......Clear Right, Right?.....always a brother.....mark...nite Freds'..and the rest........climbimg to 6,000ft and turning inbound to the beacon......Lets go home Larry...............................................................
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:21:48 (MST)

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Sammy Hagar...he's still rocking?
sue
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:17:44 (MST)

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...Sammy Hagar is on Austin City Limits right now...............
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:16:16 (MST)

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Books like Token...I know a little bit about tokin......Bulldogs and Cobras: Lords of the Sky!!!!!!.....nah.....
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:13:17 (MST)

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Mark, you rascal...what are you doing stirring up trouble in here so late tonight?
sue
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:12:54 (MST)

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...hey Freddie Boy.......no need to go to Heli.Vets anymore......Sue.....watch what you ask for;-)))))))))))
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:09:25 (MST)

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...Sue..we didn't loose him. he lost himself......some guy that comes in here and speak some kind of different talk and tells us to GEEEEEETTTTTTTT OOUTTTTTTTI am HEREEEEEE..Mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:07:52 (MST)

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hmmm...Mr. Skaggs...you DO have me pegged. Do you have ESP? Yes, I'm a liberal, to a degree. But actually vote for the MAN before the party. Still want to talk politics??
sue
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:05:06 (MST)

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You have someone lost in here???
sue
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:02:56 (MST)

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Ms.Sue....your a Red Sox fan.......a writer and a journalist......don`t care about money....could you be a........ LIBERAL...........WELCOME to the 129th.......Now I got some politics I want to talk about with you....save that for another time.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:02:43 (MST)

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....hey....Maybe before we get started on anything......we better ask Mr. Mugu, or Mogo, or what ever the name is of the guy that gets lost in here sometimes;-))))))))....mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:01:51 (MST)

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Thanks, Alvis. I wasn't sure if I had to post my email address each time or not. I noticed after a few times no one else did. Saves time.
sue
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 22:00:37 (MST)

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sue,a word of warning.We have spam addy people that come in here.To post ones addy means invites from the dark contenent to share in untold riches,but they want your bank info first.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:58:23 (MST)

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Well, Mark, you've got me addicted to these guys. My kids are gonna wonder why I'm pushing them off the computer! Thanks everyone for allowing me to join the group.
Sue <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
Celina, OH USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:56:37 (MST)

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WHOOOOOOOOO...Mr. Fred Skaggs!!!!!!!!!;-)))))))))......mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:55:59 (MST)

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Putting "legs under a book"......Does that sound like me??
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:52:58 (MST)

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Mr. Fred Skaggs...lifelong Red Sox fan...so am I!! For obvious reasons, of course. I saw Tony C on the Merv Griffin show in '68. He had gotten beaned the year before. I was 16, he was a handsome athlete...love at first sight?? Anyway, I followed his career after that till he was traded to California in 1970. In 1990, I read in People Magazine that he had passed away. Talk about shock. I investigated and found the missing years were the most tragic. I became friends with Billy C, Tony's late mother, Teresa, and younger brother, Richie. I've been to Boston 5 times, but only last summer did I get to take my boys to Fenway and to visit Tony's grave. Pedro pitched that day. Sox won. Life doesn't get much better. Good to hear from you...and Alvis, too!! Don't mind if I visit here often, do you?
Sue <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
Celina, OH USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:52:44 (MST)

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HEY SUE:-))))))))..WELCOME HOME, to the 129th...These guys are a hoot , ain't they!!!!!;-)))))))))))))....love you gang..........mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:49:26 (MST)

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That`s Lawyer Talk...Mark
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:47:34 (MST)

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Ms.Sue....For some Boston Red Sox tickets at Fenway Park....good seats so Me and Kim LaVoie can antagonize the visiting team. You got a story....Fred Alvis I`m what J.W. Wilson calls a "pin-headed Yankee liberal carpetbagger". Ms.Sue....I`m a long time Red Sox fan....and loved Tony C.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:45:06 (MST)

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....Amen to that!!!!!!!!! Fred A...............mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:42:08 (MST)

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....Fred....you said "MY STORIES"...and "YOUR GROUP"......it's "YOUR STORIES"...and "OUR GROUP"...........Always a brother......mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:41:03 (MST)

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Don,You and your family are in my prayers.hopeing for the best buddy.I think the person that said women are the weaker sex was a woman.trying to keep our male egos inflated.They are a tough bunch,bless their hearts.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:38:02 (MST)

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The comments come on here as fast as I can read them. I'm truly amazed. For myself, I don't care that I make a dime off my writing. In fact, when I was searching for a publisher for the first book, I offered to write it for nothing, no royalties, no advance, nothing. I'm not a materialistic person. I'm just someone who loves to write and gets enjoyment out of sharing good stories. Call it abnormal, that's how I feel.
Sue <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
Celina, OH USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:33:11 (MST)

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I mean I got my PERS retirement. Mark...that will last me a life time. I got a e-mail back from a CPA lawyer friend of mine that handles this kind of stuff....I wanted to see what all is envolved. This is what he said:.............................Let me do a little checking. We have a couple of authors but one is nonfiction and the other fiction. Your story could spin out a novel that is fiction based upon some factual experiences. If you go straight facts biography kind of book, it could go very big. We are coming up on the 40th anniversary of 1965 and over the next few years there will probably be a lot of retrospective over that period. It should be quite possible for your group to create a royalty sharing arrangement with the author. A single book with no series or followup may not produce that much money for the author. However, the potential for a movie and/or tv series is always there even with a single book. You might consider putting your stories into volumes (like Harry Potter). Then if you could get some legs with the first book, the second would have a big presale thereby generating big bucks. I will check and get back to you in a few days.........
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:32:23 (MST)

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shit, let me start over. Welcome to the site sue.Friends are always welcome.Dont believe anything anyone says( except me),espically that Jim westwang, they are just all suck ups.Dont listen to Kim or robbie,( northern liberal types),they think al gore really did win.Dave, out in colorado,is chasing ski bunnies,rick, in arozaonie,is heat stroked.Watch out for freddy,in north carolinia,he says a yankee is worth a bale of cotton,but yankees are eaiser to pick.He runs with an old wood carver , named jw.those florida boys are ok,but they still cant count votes.Watch out for Ron Payne,he is one of those ( as is jim westwang,aka smitty)one of those motor scycle ridding,wummon chassing,kind of guys.Dont go ridding in gales mustang,he drives it like he stole it.Me and Raineer and the only two trust worthy guys in here,( watch out for him).I,and only I,will tell you the truth without reservation.I still have my school boy figure,all my hair,all my teeth,and bath every day.Jim westwang had a flat tire,ask his wife to hitch hike to get another tire,and then ask her to bing him back a few cold ones as well.Gale took his own beer cooler to the wedding.by the way,his mustang runs great after you push start it.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:27:34 (MST)

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...Don.........sorry to hear about Donna......will pray that she gets well soon....ain't that just like a woman.....to say it's a mole hill, when it's really a mountain.....them gals are tuffer then me, thats for sure...Child birth.......YIIIIKEEESSSSS.....ain't no way I could handle that sister's..........always a brother........mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:19:01 (MST)

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........Freddie Boy.........I'm sure that health wise you'll be kickin' round fer a long spell.........as far as money.....I ain't got enough to last till next week. Shoot, I could go over to Dad and get all the money I want. He's a millionaire couple times over, but thats not me.....don't want lots........an actually Fred, the saying goes, The "Love" of money, is the root of all evil..........I got holes in my socks.......Take care.....always a brother, Mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:13:40 (MST)

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WOW I guess that will teach me to not come in here for a few days, lots of chatter anout all kinds of things, unfortunately the reason I haven't been here for a while is not a fun reason. my wife Donna went to the DR. and was given meds for a urinary tract infection .......... WRONG. it turns out that the tubes that lead from both kidneys are blocked because of an abdominal infection that caused swelling in that area. she is on IV meds and they had to insert a stint in both tubes to allow the kidneys to drain. unfortunately both kidneys are "grossly swollen". the operation went very well this morning so the tubes are both open and she will probably be able to come home in 2 or 3 more days. if they get the infection taken care of. but she will only have about 10% function of the left kidney because of the dammage done by the back-up of urine and the extent of the infection. the right one is ok. I think when I get her home I an going to hurt her :-D all she told me was her back hurt a "LITTLE" ....... BET ME. that had to hurt like crazy. anyway ..... everyone take care and let's hope everyone gets better SOON. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 21:05:25 (MST)

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Well all that I have to say, "Money is the root of all evil".....My two younger brothers are going at each other over some money left to them by my step-father...it driving my 73 year old mother crazy, she`s on prozac or something like that. And now some relative we don`t even know, is tryin to get their "fair share". I guess the point is I don`t want someone making money off my or our "blood, sweat and tears". I got enough money to last me for the rest of my life.....and "young wife still working". I`m a strange person when it comes to somebody "digging up ghost" from my past. Hell I would be dead before a book could get published....LOL...
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 20:56:22 (MST)

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Well, Mr. Jackson, I was in touch with Terry today. He tells me he might be in Ohio late next month, nothing definite yet. He's a good man. He told me when his buddy died in his arms, he never cried. He never cried in the days, months, years that followed. The Casper Platoon also has reunions. In fact, Terry is in charge of this year's in Vegas. At last year's reunion, each member in attendance received a card with a KIA on it. Terry's card had the name of his buddy on it. When it was time for him to stand and announce the name, he broke down. He was inconsolable and had to leave. Finally, the tears were able to come. I look forward to the two of you meeting. And Mark...thank you for your friendship and support.
Sue <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
Celina, OH USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 20:54:41 (MST)

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shit. Now I feel I must defend myself or explaine a few of my thoughts.I dont give a shit about monies except that i dont want someone I dont know ,havent met,dont trust,asking me to make him/her a profit at the expense of nam vets ,again.Mark,This DOES NOT include you.You are not an outsider in the way I ment.It takes years for some of us to come to grips with our demons,whatever.We trust slowly( I do anyway).For someone ,whom we dont know,to come in here and ask,is very " out of the wild blue yonder" for me,personally.Like a pair of new shoes,this site and and the folks took some getting used to.Now ,its comfy.I ment sue,and only sue ,as an outsider.You,gently,kathereen,melody,and others arnt,in my opinion,outsiders.Shit,I dont know what I am trying to say,or rather,how to say it.I truely hope I havent offended anyone.I am not screaming a "mayday" here,but perhaps I need to put my ship down for a little maintainance.Need to check hell holes,fluid dampeners,jesus nuts,trans cooler,track the blades,drain a little fuel and oil,and make sure my sgetti and meatballs c-rat is mounted on the 60.Lane tower,coming thru the pass for gas.Time for that beer. clear right.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 20:54:05 (MST)

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.....god bless you Sue....very well said..........see gang......Thats the "PASSION"....always a brother.........Love to all, Mark........Sue...terry says that he is coming to visit Spence soon and make a stop at the Pop-A-Top. Do you know when?
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 20:45:52 (MST)

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You know...when I approached Mark about a book, money never entered my mind. I write for a newspaper in Greenville, OH. I get paid $20 a story. I write approximately 4 stories a month and travel much of Darke County, OH to do it. I pay more in gas than I get for the work I do. But, I'm unusual in that regard. Like Mark...I don't do what I do for the money. I do it because I love writing, I love touching people through my words. It enriches my own life. I've spent hours listening to a copy of a tape Mark gave me of Billy Perri that tells about Larry's death. I rewind it and listen to it over and over and over. I've read the crash reports on the 257, I visit Larry's grave often. I went there on his birthday last Sept. 11 with Mark and Dee. My kids think I'm obssessed by this. Maybe I am. But it's a good obsession...powerful and full of meaning for me. Mark is an incredible man. He is my good true friend, one I admire and wish I could be like. When he mentioned a trip to Vietnam, possibly next year, I told him, "I thought you would never ask!!" I'm a single mom, working one job full-time and writing for the newspaper part time. I don't make great money, but I will be on that trip one way or the other. I would never forgive myself if I didn't see that part of history for myself. I have co-authored one book. It was about (of all things), a former baseball player for the Boston Red Sox, Tony Conigliaro. I was empassioned about the tragedy of this talented athlete and am equally as passionate about Mark, Larry and the 129th. All this has come about in an eerie way...as Mark said in his post...I read Larry's name at the top of a menu one day at work. The company I work for is located a few blocks from Pop-A-Top. We are allowed to order food from anywhere in town one day a week. We had ordered from Pop-A-Top on numerous occasions, but on that particular day, I read the top of the menu...and saw Larry's name. I stopped by that night on my way home from work. I asked to speak with Larry Jackson. Mark's daughter, Stephanie, looked at me like I had lost my mind. (I wonder that myself sometimes!) I then learned that Larry was the brother that never returned...and Mark was the one left to carry on for him and the rest of you. When I met Mark, it was like I had known him forever. I took it as a good sign that this was something that was meant to be. Now.... This past Christmas Eve, I was alone. My kids (I have three) were with their Dad on that particular night. I was lonely, so was perusing the internet. I found, of all things, a penpal site that I began wandering through. I noted that one individual's description said, "Vietnam Vet" and as a profession, "writer." I wrote to him and he responded. Talk about uncanny... Terry Gallagher is from Wrentham, MA. Like Larry, he was a crew chief in the Casper Platoon the same time Larry was there. In fact, the Caspers used Lane as well. Terry was only there a matter of months. He was injured when a grenade was thrown into the window of his hooch...burned over 40 percent of his body. His buddy was injured far worse and died in his arms. Terry sent me five memories one day. He had not shared them with anyone before. I cried when I read them. I will cry when I read yours. I've been told that I write from the heart. I guess that can work both good and bad for a writer. I take my subjects far too seriously till they become a part of me. I agree with one individual who said that the stories probably could not be told via emails. That's why I plan on attending the reunion. I want to visit Vietnam. I want to be the one you trust enough to allow me to visit your memories. Maybe there is someone else you would trust more. I only wanted to tell the story of a man nicknamed Pop-A-Top...who was a crew chief...from Coldwater, OH..and the way he touched me over 30 years later from his grave. I would like this to be, not only Larry's story, not just Mark's story, but a story of the 129th. I don't promise a bestseller, I don't promise a Pulitzer Prize. I can only promise you my devotion and my best effort. The rest is up to you.
Sue <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
Celina, OH USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 20:36:35 (MST)

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......Have to laugh at my self for writing such a long post.....I can see that this is a matter that will take lenghtly conversations and maybe we should limit the chatter about it in here and converse by some other means.............BTW.....Sue does want to meet all of you, she does want to attend our reunion, and she wants to make a trip to Vietnam with me when I/WE/YOU, travel next year when I go to climb Larrys mountain and bring a piece of the "257" home......always a brother, Mark
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 19:16:01 (MST)

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.evenin' Flight........absolutly a beeeeeeaaaaauuuuutiiiiiiiiful day in Ohio today. Night fall has brought the chill though.......Fred and Kim.Thanks for the picture...yeah, as Freddie boy said the other day, it was a good thing you two did have ball caps on or we would of been blinded by the light. I have a hole in my hair also:-))))))))))))))) ......... Well, since the first subject that was brought up about the book was the money , that is where I will start.......to be honest with you, when I first started to think that all the info that has come to me in the last 8 years about the 129th, should be, and could be preserved, for future generations to read, learn, use, recall, honor, and to pass on, I never thought about money. If you think any different, then you have never met me, or you don't know me that well. Let me say it this way, since "PASSION" is the word for the week in the world, you do not know how huge "MY PASSION" is to get YOUR time you spent making my life better, then and now, out to others. It is a debt, I will forever owe to you. Now, to say that I have never thought about money that a book would bring would be a lie, and I have pondered over and over in my head, what if, it did become a best seller? How could I be able to share it with the ones that made the writing possible? YOU! Not that I have to defend myself, because I don't feel that I have been attacked, I would like to give a few examples of, just the beginnin of the tip, of the iceburg of "MY PASSION" about you all. In September of 2000 I spearheaded a drive to bring the Moving Wall to Coldwater. I didn't do it all myself. It took 19 months, 7 committies, 20 bodies, countless meetings, phone calls, beating the street, and donations from thousands to make it a dream come true. I came on the Flight Log Book and ask if any would like to donate. I thanked those who did, and those can rest assured that every penny sent my way from you was used towards the Wall being here. You can be proud that you were part of a, huge succesful viewing, of the Wall. Along with the 50,000 bodies who, walked the walk, to honor "The Names".............I have been offered many timesm monies to help keep this web sight running from numbers of 129th'ers. The only time that I did accept any money to do so was in Atlanta when you guys took up a collection and gave it to me to buy a frame for the Joe Kline print, and to use for the web sight. I can assure you that every penny of that, went to the such...besides I was afriad that if I didn't accept it, you would of killed me:-))))))))))...................Last year I was contacted by Scholastic Inc. Publishing, and ask if they could put Larry's "LAST LETTER HOME" in a book that they were making to be placed in schools. They offered me $75.00. Of course I gave them permission to use the letter and declined the money. I felt that I could not take money for a letter that Larry wrote. It was not mine to take. It took more then $75.00 to dry all the tears I cried when I received the copy of the book with Larry's letter in anyways..............as I said, these writings tonight, are not to defend myself, for I do not feel that I have been attact. I am just trying to explain, "MY PASSION" and intent, of such a book about the 129th. At first I thought that I had enough info to just write about Larry, and the crash of the "257", and I do. That info alone is a movie within itself. But after all of you becoming my friends, I didn't want to put something in print and not include all of you also. You have called me, "One of us", and "Brother" and speak often of the 129th family, that we have. I do not take those words lightly. How could I do such a thing and not include that rest of my family? ......Kim I just read your last post, and the words you wrote.........."It always amazed me just how fast things could change, how a second could last for an hour when things got hot, yet ten minutes would last a second, all at the same time!"..............is exactly some words that would be included in a book. Just what I'm talking about. So without even knowing, you can contribute. Kim, and all, as an outsider looking in and wanting to read words from you, that script along spellbounded me and wants me to read more. As a reader I would want to know all about the, "one second that lasted for an hour".....well this is enough for now. I hope that I have not made anybody mad at me tonight, that is by no means my intent.........take care all, always a brother..Mark............PS......I know for a fact that Sue Has the very same "PASSION that I do to get YOUR words out. I also know that there are very talented ones in the 129th that probably could write a book, but no one has said anything about such an endeaver. Hey, the more books we write about the 129th, the better chance we have of YOUR words being read.........I love you all............
Mark
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 19:10:42 (MST)

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Clear right???? my sentiments, exactly!!!heh heh Now for something outside of politics. I don't know if I could relly contribute anything worthwhile to a book. I would have to relate all the hours of boredom, flying convoy cover. It always amazed me just how fast things could change, how a second could last for an hour when things got hot, yet ten minutes would last a second, all at the same time! Like most, I couldn't care less about the money and where it goes. I do remember reading a book called "everything we had" it was filled with short stories, rememberences, actually, qnd put in a sort of chronological order. Maybe something like that? 50 degrees today!! Went for a short run, in a t shirt!!!!??? Nice way to ring out February!!
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 18:38:33 (MST)

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chuckling at a thought raineer brought up. Would hate to end a email with "clear right" and get one back saying..." yes, I understand"
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 15:56:43 (MST)

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Raineer,thanks. I still think you,Ron and myself should get together for a breakfest once a month.My days off vary,but i do get one weekend off a month,and its usaully the same weekend each month.I would like to see that old Rascal,Ron again anyway.I may or may not be able to bring the wife as she has hours as varied as mine. Say the same sunday or whatever,each month?
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 15:54:14 (MST)

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Guys, On the book subject, I don't really care about the money, but I do think that it would be hard for a writer to do it by an e-mail interview. I think you would have to have a face to face interview before you could write anything. Also the interviewer would have to have a bit of knowledge of helicopters and army slang to do the book any credit but I would be willing to help. On another note Alex it was great talking to you the other day & Fred A. we are going to have to get together sometime, I have the VHPA disk that might help you find some information you were looking for earlier. Rainer
Rainer Bauer <bauerrv@aol.com>
Indy, USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 15:33:13 (MST)

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YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS, I just looked and saw the daffidills comming up thru the soil.WOOO WHOO
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 15:13:12 (MST)

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Jim,good to hear from you. Its ok to tell them ( the kids) what we did after lunch as well.Freddy,I agree,I would love to hear more input.I do know that if monies are to be made (more than a pitence ,that is) i would like to see some of it pushed toward some sort of 129th fund for those that need help at xmas or reunions,someting.I am all for sue making lots of money,and I hope she does.Now, the important thing is the message,is it not? Come on guys,lets hear from all of you.please.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 15:07:45 (MST)

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Fred Alvis, why am i concerned about some of the stories you might tell about me/us? Like, what did you do in the war daddy ( i Got drunk & played spades). Love ya all, anything i can do to assist. >>jim
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 13:32:42 (MST)

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..Fred and Fred.......grand daughter is here right now....I will be in later to discuss this....you are correct about one thing. IT WOULD BE ABOUT YOU/BY YOU..thats the whole idea..be back later...always a brother, because thats all I want to be...Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 12:39:18 (MST)

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Fred Alvis, so far you and I are talking about this...we need more feedback. But first and foremost people don`t write books for the "pure art" of writing. There`s a money factor...and it`s big business. Twain, Hemmingway, J.K.Rowling etc. didn`t write books just to be great writers. They would have starved to death.....it`s a matter of dollars and cents. Ms.Sue would want her cut of the profits....assuming it was sucessful. Everybody is not like Gently and do things out of the kindness of their heart for us. Nothing is as it appears!!!!! Fred you made a strong point the other day of someone furthering their career by using us. This type of thing could take all of us down that slippery slope. And "What If"....it`s a Pulitzer Prize winner best seller and there is "movie rights". That`s all far fetched, but it could happen. When something or someone is sucessful everybody comes out of the woodwork with their hand out. I could and can go on and on. Fred you so right.....it would be ABOUT US.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 11:52:04 (MST)

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...... Good ponits to discuss with you about the book.I will talk about later this afternoon in here. Going to pick Mom up for lunch....take care all..always a brother....Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 09:39:20 (MST)

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oh,I forgot.I dont think i could do something like that in one email.Dont think I want to even try it.Its to damn personal.its to varied.damn,is the beer even chilled yet.Perhaps sue needs to come to the reunion,to see the old,wrinkled faces,the callaused hands,the twinkles of warm acknowlegement to friends,brothers and old warriors.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 09:39:06 (MST)

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Freddy,I have mixed feeling about a book.I think its a great idea for the 129th.But when someone ask me to turn the eye inward,really inward,I know where that road leads to, for me anyway.Still, I think,for the asking price,if the book does a damn good job,and it helps the 129th reunions or something, its worth it to me personally.I have one good drunk left in me.Perhaps Sue's journey should start with a trip the the wall.If that doesnt move her,then I have nothing futher to add.59,000 dead,how many crying eyes and broken hearts?How many dreams?.How many broken ,ruined young men,still left to face the rest of their life,with damaged spirts or souls.Shit, I am getting long winded again.I dont necesarily want a vet to write it,she is asking us to write it with her.But your right freddy,there is something down deep in each nam vet that NO-ONE can comprehend except another nam vet.But Freddy,this book isnt for us,its about us.It takes (more than I will ever have) great talent to convey what we feel to the written page.We are getting older and if the tale is to be told,now is the time.We have lost to many members already,along with their stories.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 09:30:30 (MST)

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Fred Alvis...You brought up a hell of a good point.....you must have been reading my mind......it`s awfully hard share things like that to a outsider. And I`m not talking about "our social members" being outsiders. I`m not real crazy about someone "ghost writting" my feelings about my experience of Viet-Nam. I don`t feel that a would get the "full breath" of our experience. I`m ruffling feathers again, but hey that`s me.....Another point is we have some extremely talented people of our own here, some stay in the woodwork and only come out when they got something to say. When we were in Nam...it was a team effort.....and I think that is a important aspect of writting a story about us. A point of reference on this subject is the book "We Were Soldiers"...that journalist that wrote that was actually there. Can we get some more feedback? I would like to before I toss my hat in the ring. Sorry if this offends anyone!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 08:56:40 (MST)

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and the monies from a book? will any go toward a 129th xmas fund or other fund your talking about? The sharing of gayity, laughter,and good times is easy.The sharing of some homecoming, betrayel, death,loss,pain,isnt so easy to share with an outsider.I wonder why?Is it fear? Is it that we have tried before and found it isnt comprehesable to innocent ones?, or only to find the burning question,stampeading to be ask,is,"did you kill anyone?Somethings are harder to talk about,as they require payment of pain and depression,bouts of drinking.Our personal little hells,caudrons of bubbling memories,all with sharp thorns requiring personal payment for a glimps back into that black hole we have stored some memories. Sure,Im up for it. : >)
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 08:30:41 (MST)

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Frank...Well you all down there are use to four-wheelin in swamps and bayou`s, that not much different that snow and ice. In NC they got that Dale Earnhart thing. Ain`t nothing like looking into your rear view and seeing a Hummer sliding sideways and out of control as you wait for the red light to change. Frank...these folks will get up on your bumper and "draft" off of you.....in snow and ice....... At night they get so close to your "tail-end" that you can`t see their headlights in snow and ice. Michigan.....don`t get me started Michigan... only thing I like from Michigan is Bob Seger, Grand Funk Railroad and Motown music.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 28, 2004 at 06:43:10 (MST)

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Just got off the phone with Billy.........great conversation with him....I love that man......Just want to say this about Sue and the book I spoke of in the last post....it's for real and we would like for all of you to tell parts of "YOUR" story to us....send them to me, or Sue..take care all.....always a brother,Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 23:39:27 (MST)

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..Good evenin' Brothers and sisters...I see my very close friend Sue has posted. A real fine lady and the one I have picked, or should I say, Larry picked, to right "YOUR" book. She is the real Macoy. Sue stoped in the Pop-A-Top last summer one day when I was not there. She had read the top of our menu at her place of work. We deliver there. It reads as follows........... POP-A-TOP This Bar & Grill is Dedicated to all Veterans WELCOME HOME & THANKS The name Pop-A-Top was Larry Jackson's call sign in Vietnam It is our hope that through this dedication, we will help people to realize that their freedom wasn't free. (678-3445)..........the day she came in Steph, our youngist was working. Sue ask if the owner, Larry Jackson was in. Kinda through Steph for a loop for a second. She said, Larry is my uncle and my dad, Larry's brother is the owner. She stoped back the next day and told me that the dedtication reached out and grabed her and that she just had to come and see the place. As everybody else is, Sue was overwhelmed with the place and the story behind it's begining. We have met several times at the Pop-A-Top and I sheared all the stories that I have collected from all of you. Plus the photos, Crash report and first hand accounts of Larry and the crash of the "257" and others. I have felt for quite some time that all the info that I have is a book led out in front of me. Sue agrees. She has done some news paper articles about the Pop-A-Top Larry and you all, and her writing is fantastic. She also has writen one book already on another subject. We both have dedicated the rest of our lives in completing the mission of getting the story of Lane, the 129th, all of you guys, Larry, the "257", The KIA'S, The MIA"S, the POW"S, all the crashes, the good times, the bad times, the not so bad times, the reunions, YOUR STORIES!!!!...your heartbreaks, your fears, your fun, your thoughts, your saddness, your joys, your feelings ( then and now), and anything else that YOU can provide to put in print...Billy Perri, Larry's bubby from Vietnam is on the phone.....Talk Later....... love ya all.. mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 21:38:38 (MST)

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I met Mr. Mark Jackson late last summer. I had no idea he and his wonderful stories were right around the corner from where I work. I grew up in the Vietnam era, even wore a bracelet for a fellow Ohioan on my wrist who was listed as MIA. His remains have never been found. One day, I stopped by Mark's restaurant and things snowballed from there. I have listened to tapes Mark has given me, watched actual footage filmed by one of you people most likely on here, read books, visited Larry Jackson's grave. I am a writer and convinced this story is powerful enough to pursue. I turned 52 on Jan. 8. Instead of going home to celebrate, I found myself in a small country cemetary, shivering in the cold, drawn to Larry's grave for some unknown reason. Mark knows how strongly I feel about this. He's my buddy, and when I grow up, I want to be just like him! Anyway, I hope anyone who cares to share their thoughts, memories and anything else will give me a shout to my email address. Mark...it's time to rock and roll, my friend!!
Sue <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
Celina, OH USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 18:34:00 (MST)

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Fred S. Guess what, I saw a news cast on TV the other day that showed cars & trucks slipping & sliding, banging into each other, stuck, in the diches, being pushed and in general having trouble getting around in ice & snow & you know what, they were in Michigan. Take care. Clear. Frank
Frank Loveday <bluecobra7@yahoo.com>
Bastrop, La. USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 16:00:43 (MST)

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Tutured---that's funny! Big smile-thanks Robbie. Gently
Gen tly
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 12:24:58 (MST)

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HELLO ALL CAN'T WAIT FOR INDY EITHER, ITS NICE OUT HERE GOING TO BE NEAR 60 THE WEEK END fred S DO YOU ALWAYS GET SNOW LIKE THAT ,I ALWAYS THOUGHT IT WAS WARM IN N,C I HATE WHEM WE GER 4 INCHES HERE, WELL JUST THOUGHT I SAY HI TO ALL . NICE TALKING TO YOU ALIX today. OH ROB THANKS FOR THAT INFO, TAKE CARE MARK OH WHEN WE GET TO INDY. ONE OF YOU GOT TO TAKE ME FOR A RIDE ON YOUR BIKE NEVER BEEN ON ONE, THE ONLY THING I ROAD WAS A MOPED AND THAT WENT 35 MILES PER HOUR I THOUGHT THAT WAS FAST FOR SOMETHINH ON TWO WHELES AND NO SIDES BUT THAT WAS IN THE MID 70s WE SEE IF I CAN GET ON ONE WELL TAKE CARE SEE YOU IN INDY A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY <stillwating@ aol.com>
MD USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 12:11:14 (MST)

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The weather...Had about 5 inches on the ground this morning....they shut down the city. But it rained and jumped up to about 40 degrees by 10:00Am everything is gone.....But taking Kim to work at 8:00 in the morning was great...nobody on the road. Kim got her "brownie points" today she opened the place up and no one came in until 11:00. These "southern folks" can`t drive a lick when it snows.....
Fred Skaggs
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 11:43:57 (MST)

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... Judith....Gale is in INDY due to the fact that Debbie has Grand Jury there this week. ..............Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 09:13:48 (MST)

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..yes sirreeeeeeee..Judith. I am back..and I Must say that it feels great to be here amongst my dearist friends......Yeah Jeff, thanks for the your knowledge about Debbie and Bud's concerns.. Robbie I also think of you and Larry everyday. I am grateful for our friendship Brother. Only work I got is , working on getting work. Hi Dave...hey Kim, with all that traveling you got planed try and swill by Coldwater and visit with us. Always got a bunk to rest in here. That goes for anybody. Weather is warming up here also. 60's this weekend. Hold on..........I thought I heard the Harley yawning in the garage;-))))..can't wait to bring the "257 III" to INDY........Alex....and all...once we get to INDY we will have to post a sign about a meeting of such about the 129th stuff.....also set a time for the group picture. I love that time........take care all...will be back. Ray, thanks for Bud's numbers.....always a brother,Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 09:12:03 (MST)

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Jeff, you're on your own down there. I could send you a shovel, but would probably need it back next week. Fred S. I have one of those shovels myself (being an old man) Mine is nearly worn out and i need another one. We are going to be near 50 on Sunday, and into the 50's on Monday, but back to normal temps next week, so your snow will probably be melting soon. We will enjoy the warm weather while we can. We still have a good amount of snow on the ground here. We had 61 inches in January, and not much of it has melted yet. Mark, good to see you posting in here. Isn't a day goes by that i don't think of your brother and you. Hope the job hunting is gong ok. I know i'm not having much luck. Took my new cat over to the Vet's this morning to be tutered. (at least that's what i told him) Hope Spring gets here soon....
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 08:21:35 (MST)

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Basking in the sun Alex, thanks for asking. Sorry about your weather Jeff---not:>)), but thanks for the info on the disease Debbie has. It helps us understand the possibilities she faces, and unites us further in prayer for both she and Bud. Mark! Man, you are so-o back!!!! My smile today is because of that. And where is Gale hiding? In the shed(AKA dog house?)Always there-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 08:14:22 (MST)

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Our thoughts and prayers go out for Bud and Debbie. They our part of our Family here and we will support them in any way possible. Thanks for the address, let's all get a card out. Mark a great idea about the 129th merchandise. I think we will get some great input during the Indy reunion. Back working 50-60 hours a week, doctor has me tapeing my toes together for support. Still have a minor fracture on the foot. Insurance paid alot money out. The company changed our benefits at the first of the year. We really lost out that package. Well for those of you in the Carolina's take care. But, spring is around the corner. Almost 70 by sunday. My old bones need the warm temps. Take care Brothers and Sisters. How's everything going Gently?? We appreciate all you do. Alex
Alex
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 07:31:26 (MST)

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Kim! Yep, back home... and it AIN'T cold in Chile!!! Catch up to you on the back channel! Howdy everybody!
Dave Powers
USA - Friday, February 27, 2004 at 07:13:34 (MST)

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Freddy,Jeff, good luck buddies,its going to be 60 here sunday. Prayer said for Debbie,
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 19:17:49 (MST)

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Jeff,now thats funny. Thats for the laugh.
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 19:13:25 (MST)

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This guy called in sick to work. The person taking the call asked what was wrong. He told them he had anal-glacoma. Anal-glacoma? They asked. He said "Yeah-I just can't see my ass coming into work today!
jeff
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 18:57:10 (MST)

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WOW!!!! Sorry fella's, we're basking in 40 degree temps, sunshine, everything melting, total lack of winter!!!! I usually head south in March for spring training...I think I'll stay up here, where it's warm..heh heh....Took the plow off the truck, as there's no snow forecasted for the near future...you're welcome to borrow it! I'm spending some time alone this evening, Linda is in Augusta attending a meeting. I must be in love because I'm missing her severely!!! Never thought I'd feel that way about a woman again!!!!! Dave Powers..you back home yet???G.B.Y. friend
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 18:55:37 (MST)

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Hey Freddie- I have a steel one too!- Not only that but I have the only one on our street. Maybe we should go into business. I am tired of winter-it is shorts and boat time!
Jeff
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 18:31:45 (MST)

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Here in Raleigh there`s maybe 2 inches of snow, but they say tonight it will roll in with more. But got plenty of "milk and bread".....LOL....I got a "steel snow shovel" from my in-laws for Xmas. One of those "ole man" type where it is bent so it don`t hurt your back. All they got down here is plastic snow shovels......what`s up that.....we`ll see what it is like in the morning.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 18:23:04 (MST)

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Bud, Check your e-mail please.
jeff
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 18:22:46 (MST)

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A forefoot amputation would most likely not be as difficult to rehab as a below the knee as a shoe can be built out to compensate. My professional worries are if the diabetes is very advanced there will not be sufficient circirculation to promote healing that far down the extremity. Hopefully this will not be the case. If it is then there are artificial limbs that can be used. All depends on how well healing occurs. Debbie is in Mae's and my prayers. We have been through this with Mae's Mom not so long ago.
jeff
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 18:17:48 (MST)

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..Wow Jeff....sounds like a winter wonderland there, get the snowmobile gassed up. Hasn't been a cloud in the sky these parts of Ohio for 2 days. Almost went out to the garage and put on the new chrome I bought last year for the Harley.......Still thinkung of Bud's Debbie.... wouldn't that kind of amputation take lots of rehab?..........Debbie and Bud are such great people.....Bud was a real close friend of Larry's at Lane....take care all........always a brother, Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 17:27:40 (MST)

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HELP! Kim, Mark, Fred A, Robbie Send snowplows quick! We are under siege! No bread and milk anywhere. This is the south-it is not susposed to do this here. Fred S. How goes it on your side of the state? At least I get to play with four wheel drive. We are expecting 12 inches-just about right for a few donuts.
jeff
north carolina, USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 16:39:02 (MST)

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Evenin' Flight....wow I did not know about Bud's Debbie....will have to get a card out to her...have been making calls to the names in the FLIGHT LOG BOOK that I never hear from and Bud was on the list for tonight............Gently is right....as all of you did, I also felt upon reading about Debbie as if my sister was haveing the trouble. What a bond we have here.........as far as Cups....I tried all day and last night to reach him but talked to Fred S. last night and he informed of some news about Cups that I didn't know and that made me assured that Cups is OK. Would be nice to hear from him though................Hey Ray and Robbie.....good to see ya.......going to Ben Franklins to get a card.................always a brother............Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 16:38:55 (MST)

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HELLO GENTLY I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BETTER THANKS RAY SEE HOW I GET MIXED UP SORRY I JUST SO MIXED UP SORRY AND THANKS FOR GETTING BACK I DONT THINK RIGHT ALL THE TIME THANKS RAY A BROTHER ALWAYS
RAY
MD USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 14:20:29 (MST)

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Ray, my dear friend. The message wasn't about you. It was a reminder to all of us that we are here for each other, and then I took it to the next level to remind everyone that no one should ever feel alone or unloved, especially if there are problems, or illnesses. More so, that we can't help each other if we don't know help is needed....even if it is only with a card. I'll talk to you more off line. Love to all-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 13:31:33 (MST)

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HI ROB ANY TIME ROB LETS SEE THAT DEBBIE GETS MANY CARDS. NOW YOU ALL KNOW WHY I HAD GAIL PUT IN LOG SO IT WOULD BE RIGHT ,,,ROB WHAT DRAFT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT I SCROOLED DOWN DIDNT SSEE ANY THING CAN U TELL ME ABOUT IT RAY I SEEM TO BE MISSING THINGS OR NOT LOOKING CLOSE ENOUGH TAKE CARE ALL I MUST BE LOSING IT RAY
RAY
MD USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 09:13:06 (MST)

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Hi Flight. I hope everyone is doing ok. Ray, thanks for getting that info. I got a card this morning and it is in the mail now. I did talk to Bud for about 1/2 hour after i talked to you. As you said he appologized for not letting everyone know what had happened to Debbie. He's just not a computer guy. Judith, thanks for the info about the draft. Kind of figured it wouldn't be too far down the road before they started that up again. My opinion is they will have 10 times as many draft dogers this go round...... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 08:48:37 (MST)

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to all if i miss read iam sorry i get so mixed up and forgeti know you all care for with out you all i not be here where iam now i thank you all a brother always ray
Ray
md USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 08:48:20 (MST)

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hi Gently did I read this wrong I don't rcall saying that no one caresor loves me iknow you all do ,did i miss read it RAy
RAY <stilwating@ail.com>
md USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 08:39:14 (MST)

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Gail and Ray, thank you. I'll get a card out right away, as I'm sure most on the site will. The sharing of the problems we have is a very important part of this site. We're family and we support each other, so we need to be informed of such, big or small,if we are going to help. Don't be out there alone-you have no reason to be. And don't say nobody cares or loves you because right now I am saying "I care and I love you." Always there for our Veterans-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 08:00:42 (MST)

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Brothers and Sisters of the 129th, Ray and I would like to share some information with you about one of our brothers, Bud Rainey and his wife. Ray called Bud last evening to see how he was doing and Bud is having a rough time. Debbie, Bud's wife, has been in and out of the hospital since December.Debbie dropped a new bar of soap on her big toe and the toe turned black. Debbie is a Diabetic and the lack of circulation caused all her toes to go black. About five weeks ago Debbie had her forefoot amputated and is in a rehabilitation home. The Doctors are waiting to see if their is further damage, if so they will have to amputate again, about six inches below her knee. Bud apologizes for not posting this himself but he is working six days a week and taking care of Debbie in the evening. If you would like to send cards and prayers her address is as follows:........... Debbie Rainey Schroder Manor Room # 332 1302 Millville Avenue Hamilton, Ohio 45013. Please put her in your prayers. Gail & Ray
Ray ( But Gail is writting this for me <stilwating@aol.com>
md USA - Wednesday, February 25, 2004 at 18:23:58 (MST)

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...I am on a all out mission for the rest of the day to locate and talk to Cups.......doing web search for his name and address with some numbers ( Which I have but just checking to see if there is a new one some where).....called Haiti and could only get as far as the international opperater in Port-au-Prince. The information opperators are not answering their phones. The international guy said that was because of the trouble that they are having in the country. I have tracked down 129th guys by sweet talking opperators before so I will turn on the charm, or just flat out lie to them and tell them I am really somebody that is important. That has worked before also.....I will keep you updated on this mission................
Mark Jackson
LZ FIND CUPSS, USA - Wednesday, February 25, 2004 at 10:52:23 (MST)

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....Mornin' all.....hope all is well with all....I have a phone number for Cups and just called it. A recording comes on and ask if I wanted to leave a message or a fax....I left a message informing him that we are worried about him. Hope we here from him.....Gale Beard made a trip to the Pop-A-Top yesterday. It was great to see him. He showed me a prototype of a Challange Coin for the 129th that he would like to get made. Of course it cost money. Which brings me to bring this up. At our gatering in INDY this year we should hold a meeting to see if we would like to start a 129th fond for the such. Like the Hats, shirts, Stickers, Hat pins, Challange Coins, Patches and anything else that we may want to make in the future. The found could provide monies for the reoder of these items when they run out and then the ones who have taking on these projects wont have to pull from their own pockets. Any responce to this?.......or if anybody has a idea of their own. I think we should discuss this matter..........still jobless, I think that if I still am tommorow that I may find my cloths out in the driveway....;-))))...Just kiddin'...I hope;-))))....just kiddin'......got lots of feelers out there...and it all works out I will be able to pick the job I want................sun out here, but cold.....butts a itchin' to put the seat on the Harley and just set there ;-(...........wont be long though....got more names to put in the roster, more photos, .....and Barry Winkler....I promise I will get your story up about " Dad, what did you do in Vietnam".................take care all...will be back later.always a brother......mark
Mark Jackson
LZ HOME, USA - Wednesday, February 25, 2004 at 09:46:17 (MST)

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I sent Cups a "Where are you?" E-mail the other day and have no received an answer. Am sure he was smart enough to see this coming or he may be flying lead for the marines!
jeff
USA - Wednesday, February 25, 2004 at 09:24:46 (MST)

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Flight has anyone heard from Cups??? Hope he makes out ok!! the rest of you have a great day. Alex
Alex
USA - Wednesday, February 25, 2004 at 07:01:08 (MST)

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I was ask to forewards this to Fred Hey bro, send him this mail from me, ok? Fred, it seems like you jumped in a foxhole with a bunch of crazy Nam Vets, during incoming, and right in the middle of an enlisted man`s "no holds barred" party, hosted by a buncha Cav dudes;-) Listen, none of the jibes were aimed at you personally, trust me. All us old farts have been on here so long, we got nuttin left but to "shag" each other. All the comments you read, is just everyday neck running crap, we invect towards each other on here, cause we know each other so well. It wasn`t personal. You just happened to be the FNG (fuckin new guy) at that point in time. I guarentee you, the guys never even thought about it being mean spirited. All we have left of our "Glorious Warrior days", is spouting off and running our necks on these damn computers. Sure, we get mad at each other sometimes, and some for real name calling does happen.All of what you read was just, "fuckin with ya" bro. You want to see the REAL Warriors in here? ask for help. ask for information. Vent off some steam. Mention a family crisis. Dog dies, mom is in the hospital, sibling got killed, In a bind, ANYTHING! You will get as many as 300 (active members on here) emails asap, with condolences, offers to help, sympathy, "way to go" and "atta boys", and such. It is a miricale how much knowledge and help is on here, when one of us gets in a bind! You ask for help, Someone, will have your 6 covered before you can send the mail. We played hard in Nam, we play hard here. But, there is more genuine care and help on here than you can imagine. Know why? Cause we all "been there, done that"! "Ain`t nuttin but a thang brother"! Oh believe me, all the fng`s/ cherries, usually get ribbed, and joked about. a lot quit and leave. A LOT, don`t. The only, thing that gets malicious on here is politiks. When you pit Blue Blood Conservatives against Yellow Dog Democrats, ya got an argument brewing, LOL. If you want to give us another try, just sign back on (no one has to know either;-), and kick back and get the feel of the old timers, same same short timers incountry. delete 95% of the politik threads, and you will have some mighty fine reading. "We were Warriors once, and young". We are still trying to keep that image. The first few posts you read is the normal riposte` between Warriors, who know it`s all in fun, and when the LZ is in sight, when the rubber meets the roasd, the BS stops, and it`s "COMRADES" poking fun, that`s all. Sincerely, Doc David "Doc" Hyatt Scaggs.After this,the issue is dead.....
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 19:30:19 (MST)

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Good Lord Fred A. It ain`t no big thing, you don`t need to feel bad about nothing. I jumped in the pond and didn`t realize there was "snappin turtles" all around me. Kim LaVoie...I got the picture of us together from Linda....Boy we`re handsome dudes....LOL. Maybe I`ll send that out to the flight check out........Glad we wore our baseball caps.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 19:28:14 (MST)

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Well Fred,i am sorry things turned out the way they did. I apolized for not giving you enough forwarning as to the nature of that site. As Rick so correctly put it,one needs a chicken plate in there sometimes.Good to see you posting again rick.fred,I consider you a friend and a brother,no harm was intended from me.Again,i apoligize.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 18:47:58 (MST)

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Kim,sounds like we are pretty much in agreement so far.To be honest,i was pretty much in kerrys corner untill his medals came up.By all military criteria, he earned them. period.however,something is kinda fishy.I guess I see kerry,and bush,as just more of the same,self serving,elitist,bunch,that this country has had for a while now,in charge.It seems that the working man and woman,are getting sore backs from being used and abused.I think that at the moment,the economy is hinged to go either way,and if it goes bad,its going to go very bad in a hurry.Good jobs are disapearing down south and over seas faster than truth in politics.Hell,I was in pennys today,picked up a shirt,and it was made in vietnam.Lowes has almost nothing it sells ,made here ,as is true for wall mart.I am the tool guy at lowes,and i sell some pretty good stuff,but little of it is made here.Seems all the good jobs have been downsized and sent away,and its getting worse.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 18:41:38 (MST)

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Fred A...not a problem regarding Kerry...we all have our political beliefs...I know it can get dicey in here..and will respect that we all have diffrent outlooks on what's needed in a leader. I do have concerns that we're in a mess in Iraq, and a lot of people are dying, and going to die due to a lack of knowledge of the different sects of Islam. Tinhorn dictators are a dime a dozen in this world, and we tend to overlook the faults of the ones who are friendly to us, and demonize the ones we don't like. Either way, it's the common person who gets hurt, while the money folks keep getting more and more. The golden rule....them with the guns, rule!!! I wonder how the western heaven is going to welcome the likes of Karl Icahn, Bill Dunlap, John Georges, etc...."what'd you do while you were on earth?" "nothing much, just put a few hundred thousand people out of work, bankrupted a bunch of companies, made millions in the market for a few investors, in general, it was a good life!" Makes me wonder what it all means, humanity, golden rule, steward to the earth......oh well..I'm not going to change anything today...
Kim
Livermore, USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 16:55:16 (MST)

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Incoming, Fred S.!!!!
Dave Powers
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 15:33:17 (MST)

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It was something like "Anne Coulter and Hillary Clinton being lesbians and is you mother a lesbian" something along that line. I just called them assholes and moved on. Even if they were lesbians...that`s gay bashing..Of course those who gay bash are just repressing hidden secrets of their own. I wouldn`t worry about it to much Fred A.....I`m outta there.... It`s like going to a party and realizing this isn`t my crowd and leaving!!!! They got plenty of people on that line to raise hell with. They don`t need me!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 14:08:43 (MST)

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Fred Scaggs...I looked and saw nothing about your Mom.What gives? Most of that stuff was " tounge in cheek" to others in there.They go to far sometimes,but from what I saw,you have wrongly accused. alvis
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 13:22:49 (MST)

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UH-1C Driver 11/69-11/70 162 AHC Can Tho Copperhead31. Come back Fred, HV can be real a-holes but most mean well. Politics aside that is. You just turn em off for awhile when things get bad ie; POPEYE,MIKE, CHRIS, SKIBA ETC. ob
Denny O'Brien <obrun@comcast.net>
Lansing, Mi USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 12:45:39 (MST)

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LOOKING for info re; helicopter 65-09915. Helicopter was in 129th May '71- Apr.'72. It is to become part of a memorial display in Bangor Maine at www.colemuseum.org on Memorial Day this year. Would especially like to locate a crew chief for the occasion. I flew it when it was with C/227 but feel that a CE would be able to tell more of the story. Contact me or P. Trice at the Cole Museum. Thank-you.
Bob Varney <rvarneyj@maine.rr.com>
Biddeford , Me USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 11:26:16 (MST)

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You need a chicken plate on heli vets
Rick England
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 08:31:10 (MST)

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Trust me you guys.....Fred Skaggs can handle it. Always there-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 06:46:30 (MST)

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A posting in helivets to/about fred scaggs... A very poor showing in welcoming a new guy, I agree with Alvis, new guys need time to get aclimated to this group, I'm ashamed that we could not do better, everyone deserves the benefit of the doubt until they reveal their personalities...my apologies to Fred
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 06:03:57 (MST)

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Kim, I agree. however I am not going to counterpoint kerry in here.I made th mistake of bringing in politics in here.I am a lunkhead sometimes and can offend without meaning to.BC me and convince me Kerry is the man for the job. The offer stands for others also.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 05:57:59 (MST)

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Fred, I read all the posting of "welcome new member".I can see where you would be insulted/offended. Some of the posting included digs at other members,as you walked smack in on a kerry,bush,rotor wing,fixed wing brew ha.All were good natured.There are lots of good post in there to you as well.That being said,I wrote a posting in there telling of poor treatment and how is a new member supposed to know of the sub plot kidding going on.You have every right to be offeded Fred,I am sorry it happened. I was looking for your post in there,as you usually have well writen,good points, letters.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 05:48:05 (MST)

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Thanks Brother Kim.....I hope it is starting break with that cold weather up north. Fred A....What can I say......Those Heli Vets first words to me was about "my mother"...not knowing if she is alive or dead....so I had to "cut them loose"....they might be jokers to you, but I don`t take to kindly someone talking about my mother. Oh well most of those guys were "lifers". Enough of that....I`ll stay with the young republicans and talk politics. Kim send me a e-mail on the back channel.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 20:34:31 (MST)

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My 2 cents worth of opinion regarding politicians....several presidents have ridden military accomplishments into the white house. Jackson killed (murdered?)hundreds of natives, in the name of progress for white America. Truman served in ww1, Eisenhauer in ww2. It's maybe a sign of America coming to grips with our little war, that a politician can mention Vietnam as a positive achievement. Of course, several senators are vets, and have mentioned their service with pride. There's nothing wrong with that, in my book. Just so they don't exaggerate their version of events.
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 20:08:16 (MST)

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This is it no more politics...I got some e-mails on the back-channels about Nader, I don`t hate him.....OK .......I really think he is sincere in wanting to further the evolution of the party system.Certainly, he isn't going to win, but the impetus for change has begun and maybe people will finally realize what it is going to take for 'the people' to regain control of the country. Anyone who thinks big business and the politicians who work for them aren't behind every major decision are deluding themselves. I won't say I am voting for him, but do agree with many of his positions.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 14:20:32 (MST)

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Flight...My wife called me this afternoon and told me a "headhunter" had called offering job to her.....They needed Movex software people......in Saigon. I told her the beaches are great!!!! But if she didn`t like the heat and humidity of N.C., shouldn`t even think about...
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 13:09:56 (MST)

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HELLO ALL ALVIS I AGREE WITH THE POST YOU MADE WHILE AGO THE ONLY LETTER SEADME OR EVER HOW YOU SPELL HIS NAME IS SHOULD BE : TO MY FAMILY I WILL BE HUNG ON SUCH A DATE GOOD BY,,,, SORRY BUT THAT'S HOW I FEEL , END OF THAT, CANT WAIT TO SEE YOU ALL IN IN INDY SEE YOU ALL THEN BE SAFE. ROB HOW ARE YOU DOING, A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY.
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
MD USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 11:08:23 (MST)

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Alex, one name has been given to me who may possibly need some help in getting to the re-union, and we're checking with that person. But flight....if you know of anyone who wants to go but can't afford it, you must let me know. Let's get them to Indy! And a note on voting: Kerry? Bush? Nader? We're in trouble. But please remember, we can't pick a candidate on one issue alone...Always there for our Veterans-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 09:42:43 (MST)

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flight: Mark appreciate getting the VHCMA registration form on the site. We all need to get them sent in as soon as possible. I do know that the rooms are filling up fast. we are trying to get more rooms. I hope David our webmaster and family can make our June reunion. SHADOW OF THE BLADE!!! There will be a showing for the SHADOW OF THE BLADE on Friday night. It's on the registration form. If you visit the website of the SHADOW OF THE BLADE. You will see the letter from the Board of the VHCMA that was request from Cheryl Fries. To support the SHADOW OF THE BLADE. Alot of us still remember June 2003 and the sounds of the huey's cranking up and the smell of the fuel. Then the opportunity of the ride of a life time for our families and friends to experience. Even though I didn't fly (left well)Rainer and Dee and Mark and Dee (on the right.) But, Labor Day at the St. Louis county air show. My time to fly crewchief well came. Also worked the flight line assisting in the loading of folks taking rides. The Huey's rides attract the people. Wanting to experience the Flight of A Huey!! Hope to work with the American Hertiage Foundation this year. See you All in Indy!!!! Judith has anyone sent any names in yet??? Alex
Alex <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Collierville , TN USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 09:03:03 (MST)

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OK Fred A. I joined....They said I`ll be notified in 24 hours......Cool
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 21:04:35 (MST)

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My God..... Fred A....Don`t say Ralph Nader.....
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 20:29:36 (MST)

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sorry to be posting political stuff in here.personaly.I feel that kerry is using nam,nad nam vets,to futher his own agenda,without reguard to nam vets.Kinda pisses me off to be used again,and again and again.shrug, thats just my opinion.Not necessary being pro bush,but kerry will get my vote when hell freezes over.Is there a third?
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 19:50:04 (MST)

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the other side of the coin.....Just so I understand... Kerry gets "special" consideration in earning his purple hearts because his combat related wounds were minor, but he comes from a priviledged background so his combat medals are tainted. On the other hand, GWB enters the NG (and was fortunate enough to jump ahead of at least 500 others?), attends flight school and flies long enough to provide his congressman daddy's campaigns with some photos (his service photos do appear to be somewhat posed and professional), then opts to participate in partisan politicing in lieu of reporting, switches guard units, again to participate in some partisan politics, and maybe shows up once in a while (although only one guy kinda remembers him serving...but claims he wasn't aware that shrub was a congressman's kid (yeah, right!)). Then takes an early out from service he was actually out of more than he was in. So let's see. It has to be a big, gaping wound that is life threatening to qualify mention of a purple heart if you are a politician, but "service" in the NG that reeks of favoritism, by the son of a congressman, is above reproach? Wasn't it you, Jack, who pointed out derisively that Al Gore had "bodyguards" assigned during his abreviated tour IN NAM? Or is it only the sons of democrats that got preferential treatment? Seems to me, one of the candidates actually walked the walk before he used insider ties to further his career. The other used insider ties to be able to talk the talk, without having to walk the walk...and further his career. Damn...Is that desperation I sense on the part of Bushies?
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 19:43:54 (MST)

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written by someone else,things nam vets should know......December 2, 1968 ‰ÞÒ ...Receives first combat related injury. (Arm) ("It was not a very serious wound at all," recalled William Schachte, who oversaw the mission and went on to become a rear admiral.) February 20, 1969 ‰ÞÒ sustained a shrapnel wound in his left thigh. March 13, 1969, another mine detonated ,,...his was (right) arm bleeding , ---------------------- Chris questioned the nature of Kerry's Purple Hearts and, being the cynic I normally am, I am suspect. We need to consider and understand Kerry's insider ties. - Maternal ancestors were Forbes - Dated Jackie "O's" half sister. - Sailed with President Kennedy (1962) - Close 30 year relationship with Sen. Ted Kennedy (worked in Ted's Senate bid) - Roomed at Yale with nephews of William and McGeorge Bundy (Kennedy administration's brain trust.) - Member of Skull and Bones Society. - Had early political aspirations - and was aware of how much military service had served John Kennedy's career. (William Stanberry, Kerry's debate team partner stated, "His lifetime ambition was to be in political office.'') ------------------ With these insider ties, I tend to be somewhat suspect of Kerry's records as I assume there was preferential treatment given, even to the point of Awards and Decorations. Then again, I could be wrong.
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 19:30:57 (MST)

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Fred S. hey buddy. Fred, if you want to discuss politics and other topics,with well informed people,nam vet flight people and only nam-vet flight people,try heli vets.There are scholars,politicians,bizz folks,authors,dead heads,conservites,liberals,working class folks,the full spectrum, try there.I go into there daily and read things that interest me. Just be sure to back up your data on anything you submit.I do believe you will enjoy the discourse there. Most is polite,but sometimes the s... flies.see you there.
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 19:08:39 (MST)

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Last year at this time we(myself) were embroiled in some heavy political arguements and debates (No Pun Intended Ron). Brother Gail Beard made a strong plea to me to take my arguements and debates to another web -site. Being a good troop I obeyed orders...only after I got my butt handed to me. But I found a web-site to debate my politics on a forum set up for that. I`ve honestly had the pleasure of debating with some young highly motivated, highly educated, deeply religous, young southern Republicans. They post their arguements...well articulate and very eloquently, and very well researched topics. They even give links that can prove their point. Sometimes I win and sometimes I have acknowledge their point of view. But somewhere along the line they became aware of my Veterans Status....and the questions would pour in. These young men know their politics and history....yes there is some young brillant young southern Democrats that have to bail me out sometimes, on the web-site. But in the course of a debate, I pointed them to the VHFCN web-site. And I told them to "click in" to the "Myths of the Viet-Nam War". To my surprize I bombarded with a ton of sympathetic e-mails.....mostly from YOUNG REPUBLICANS....They had question some of my motives for believing in what I argue. This is some examples....from young people:................................................... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fred...I thought you were in a war. Man, all you well educated 22 year old white boys had me fooled. 58,000 dead was nothing. You guys were out on the beach working on your tan and you accidently drank some "orange" juice. You were thirsty. You made a mistake. I`m just glad there were no drugs or alcohol over there. You really pulled the wool over our eyes. How did your friends get killed? Did they drown while playing beach volleyball. Those pesky VC were really your servants weren't they. Come on now, you can't fool me again. That honest Nixon and Westmoreland said it was a picnic. And to beat all, you guys volunteered. Try to make us think you were drafted. SHAME!.......................... BTW...If I'd been a soldier I'd be pissed off about this article! GOD BLESS YOU and the rest of your "Brothers In Arms"......Steve Farrington...Columbia,S.C.............................................................Fred, It is really sad that the article, Myths of the Vietnam War, made it sound like you were with a tour group just visiting Vietnam. It's impossible for me to know what you guys went through without having been there. I may quit arguing politics, Then again, that's not my nature. For a group of Young Patriots to have served at such a volatile time in the history of our country. Those statistics of the VHFCN are a "slap in the face" to every Viet-Nam Veteran. May the good Lord smile down on you and patriot brothers for rest of your lives......John Howard.....Greensboro, N.C........................................Pretty interesting e-mails from young republicans, to a old liberal Nam Vet. This is not posted to insult anyone....just a point of view from someone "on the outside looking in". Personally I had thought all was lost to young folks..... but I`ve found that I was wrong, some do care.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 11:28:37 (MST)

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I dont know if that article states the truth or not.Seems like it would be broadcasr here as well, but then,you know the goverenment.There are only two reasons I can think of to hold off taking him ( besides political reasons) 1,they want to keep down casualties,2, they want to take him alive.I personaly believe his bodyguards have orders to kill him,or he himself will do it,if capture seems eminent.I hope they try him where they can still hang people.No mercy for that "sob".I would pay a dollar for a lottery ticket at a chance to pull the lever myself.I see that they let the "Bozo of Bagdad" write a letter to his remaining family.Thats more than he ever did for the people he had prisoners.I am not smart enough to know the answer for Iraq,but I think we dont need another "religious" goverenment there. Don Miller,again,nice work on your site.
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 08:24:32 (MST)

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I knew that Boy George would come up with a October Surprise....They may have Bin Laden already...and just waiting for the right moment. They never cease to amaze me...Fred A.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 07:54:34 (MST)

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Evening flight, I have noticed we have a few "NEW' arrivals to the unit pages. WELCOME HOME ! for the newbies ( and a reminder to everyone else ) I have a web site for the 129th also and I am trying to get a picture of each one posted there. it has been quite a while since anyone has sent me a pic so I thought I would try again to get some more. if you click on my name below you will go to my site or you can copy and paste http://donald_6.tripod.com/129thmiakia1.htm to your browser to get there. if you have a pic I don't have or you have a better one than the one I have posted please send it to me.it sure would be nice to have everyones pic on the site. thanks, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 23:33:37 (MST)

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..Shhhhhhh..........quiet night in here tonight......Just got off the phone with David Wells.....our brother of our brother Ken Wells 129th KIA....some of you may recall meeting him and his wife last year in Atlanta. they are the ones that we snuck into the dinner dance Saterday night. His has made a few recent post in here pertaining to him receiving info from the Gov. about Kenneth and his crash. Personal files and stuff. He is still waiting on the crash report from Ft Rucker though. I remember going through all that also. He said that some of you have contacted him also to submit your help in reading maps and such......it's great to know that us siblings,old friends, relatives have a wondergroup pf people like all of you to turn to when we need info. Thanks from the bottom of our hearts.....Great talking with you David..........stay in touch through here....Fred A...thanks for sending the Bin Laden report to us. kinda gets the blood boilin' a bits. I cant wait for INDY....Hey Tom S...you getting some responces from the Pilots of the 129th that you have been contacting?........Melody, it is always so nice to see your post in here.........got some phone calls to make....see ya soon..love you all more....always a brother, Mark
Mark Jackson
LZ HOME, USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 20:14:01 (MST)

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Bin Laden 'surrounded' > > February 22, 2004 A BRITISH Sunday newspaper is claiming Osama bin Laden has > been found and is surrounded by US special forces in an area of land > bordering north-west Pakistan and Afghanistan. > > The Sunday Express, known for its sometimes colourful scoops, claims the > al-Qaeda leader has been "sighted" for the first time since 2001 and is being > monitored by satellite. > > The paper claims he is in a mountainous area to the north of the Pakistani > city of Quetta. The region is said to be peopled with bin Laden supporters and > the terrorist leader is estimated to also have 50 of his fanatical > bodyguards with him. > > The claim is attributed to "a well-placed intelligence source" in > Washington, who is quoted as saying: "He (bin Laden) is boxed in." > > The paper says the hostile terrain makes an all-out conventional military > assault impossible. The plan to capture him would depend on a "grab-him-and-go" > style operation. > > "US helicopters already sited on the Afghanistan border will swoop in to > extricate him," the newspaper says. It claims bin Laden and his men "sleep in > caves or out in the open. The area is swept by fierce snow storms howling down > from the 10,000ft-high mountain peaks. Donkeys are the only transport." > > The special forces are "absolutely confident" there is no escape for bin > Laden, and are awaiting the order to go in and get him. > > "The timing of that order will ultimately depend on President Bush," the > paper says. "Capturing bin Laden will certainly be a huge help for him as he > gets ready for the election." > > The article says bin Laden's movements are monitored by a National Security > Agency satellite. > > On Thursday last week, General Richard Myers, chairman of the US joint > chiefs of staff, said America had been engaged in "intense" efforts to capture bin > Laden, who was believed to be hiding in the border area between Pakistan and > Afghanistan. > > But he insisted that the focus of the search had not narrowed for months. > > The Sunday Telegraph > > privacy © 2003 Mirror Australian Telegraph Publications
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 16:56:11 (MST)

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David, I will call you later tonight. Is that ok?.........Love ya all....the 129th web page has received a knew another AWARD. it ia the Casper Platoon Award. To veiw go to the AWARDS/RINGS link at the bottom of the front page and look for the lil' Dog Tag at the lower part of page. Click on it and you can read about the Casper Platoon also. We have some friends of the Casper that visit the Pop-A-Top often.............also. the registration and daily activity of the VHCMA reunion in INDY is also available at the bottom of the front page............I come to you in spirit and truth of faith......always a brother...call ya later David..........OH.....by the way, our web master, David Stienbrunner and his wife and son may be in INDY also this year. It would be neat to have you guys meet the brain behind the web site.............Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 15:04:16 (MST)

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Ray,your welcome, my friend.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 14:53:55 (MST)

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Mark, pls call back and leave me a number where I can reach you, would love to chat
Wells
USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 14:48:47 (MST)

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Gently, Mark's timing is excellent, left me a message today. Also had some 129th vets that offered to help with mapping/coordinates. Thanks for the card as well. I appreciate you all.
Dave Wells
USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 14:13:44 (MST)

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Hello all oh Alvis. I want to thank you for puting up the sight of the Shadow of The Blade. I sent it to another vet he wrote me back said it made him cry/. take care all. see you all in Indy can't wait. hey Rob and and Gale.Alex Mark. Rick and Gently and Kal and the rest of you all I wish you all well, . oh kriss is doing well the cast comes off in a few weeks then the hard part the P.T you all be safe A brother always Ray
Ray <stilwating@aol.com>
Md USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 09:46:39 (MST)

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i have to smile.Looks like one of our spammers came in to collect addys,and Clarks was the only one up.
alvis
USA - Friday, February 20, 2004 at 19:24:27 (MST)

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Anyone know where else the Huey is stopping on its way to D.C., other than Denver? L-G
Gently
USA - Friday, February 20, 2004 at 15:29:58 (MST)

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Mr.Clark...Please......No more of that crap.....I love the smell of hypocrisy in the late p.m.,...... Smells like victory.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Friday, February 20, 2004 at 14:28:34 (MST)

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ITSOTB Aircraft Headed for Smithsonian! IN THE SHADOW OF THE BLADE AIRCRAFT HEADED FOR SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY! We're proud to announce that In The Shadow of The Blade's UH-1 Huey "091" is headed for the Smithsonian, for inclusion in a permanent exhibition titled "The Price of Freedom." ...... this was sent to me today. The 18,000+ exhibit will include such artifacts as George Washington's commission as the first Commander in Chief, a regimental flag of Civil War black troops, the surrender furniture from Appomattox Court House, and a World War II jeep. As the icon of Vietnam, 091 will be the largest item in the museum. Many Vietnam UH-1 helicopters could have been used in this exhibit, but it was 091's In The Shadow of The Blade mission of healing and reconciliation that captured museum curators' attention. During her 10,000-mile journey for the documentary production, 091 carried hundreds of veterans and families, landing in backyards and farmyards as a catalyst for them to share their stories, resulting in a diverse collection of dramatic and emotional stories. During filming, many participants left their marks on the aircraft. Museum visitors will see the distinctive Robin Hood noseart painted by 173rd AHC veterans during documentary filming, the "White Dog" painted by Marine Larry Hancock in Demorest, Georgia, and the patches presented to In The Shadow of The Blade crew members during filming. Cheryl Fries Creative Director In the Shadow of the Blade T www.intheshadowoftheblade.com Arrowhead Film & Video 512-328-0099 512-657-7880
alvis
USA - Friday, February 20, 2004 at 12:56:33 (MST)

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The Huey that Fred and Melody(nice to hear from you girl!) are talking about will be in Denver 2/24 at Wings Avaiation. Melody, email me so we can try some other avenues to get you information. And Dave, Mark has done all of the work for his brother that you are doing now-call him. I know he'd be there for you. To the rest of you-gentle thoughts-Judith
Gently
USA - Friday, February 20, 2004 at 09:19:38 (MST)

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Kerry stands up for gay marriages. See the facts on the vote in 1996. He was one of 14 in the senate to vote against allowing other jurisdictions from recognizing gay marriages. http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=104&session=2&vote=00280
Clark <admin@digitalfamilyalbum.com>
USA - Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 23:00:18 (MST)

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Hey all, Hope everything is well. Finally! After six months I am starting to get some records 66-00986. Rec'd personnel records from Virginia, and it appears from some of my brother Ken's records that it may actually have map coordinates where his chopper went down, but am not for sure. If there is anybody who can help me navigate some of these government forms and acronyms please post here and I can shoot you an email with more details. God Bless!
David Wells <dswells62@bellsouth.net>
Roswell , GA USA - Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 20:35:09 (MST)

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The following was sent to me by an uncle,veteran of Korea and vietnam....Subject: : We Were Soldiers That's the way it is, that's what we were. We put it simply, without swagger, without brag, in those three plain words. We speak them softly, just to ourselves, just for ourselves. Speak those three words anywhere in the world, and many who hear will recognize their meaning. Listen, and you can hear voices echoing through them: "I solemnly swear to protect and defend." Other words that sprang white-hot from bloody lips, shouts of "Medic," whispers of "Oh God," Forceful words of "Follow Me," and "What's the matter, soldier, you want to live forever?" Laughing words, and words as cold as January ice, words that when spoken, were meant. The echoes of "We Were Soldiers." If you can't hear those echoes, you weren't, if you can, you were. You can hear the cadences of Gettysburg, or Arlington honoring not a man, but a Soldier, perhaps forgotten by his nation, but not by his Brothers. You can hear those echoes as you walk your post, go to "The Wall," visit a VA hospital, hear the mournful sounds of Taps, or gaze upon the white crosses, row upon row. But they aren't just words; they're a way of life, a pattern of living, or a way of dying. They gave you the right to hope, to dream, to pray; the obligation to serve. These are some of the meanings of those three words, meanings we don't tally, or even list. Only in the stillness of a moonless night, or the quiet of a Sunday afternoon, or in the thin dawn of a new day, when our world is close about us, do they rise up in memories and stir in our sentient hearts. And, we are remembering Anzio, Normandy, Holland, The Bulge, Wake Island, Bataan, Iwo Jima, Inchon, Chosin, Pork Chop and Heartbreak Ridge, Chu Lai, Tet, the Iron Triangle, Ashau Valley, Mogadishu, and many other places long forgotten by our civilian friends. They're plain words, simple words. You could carve them on stone; or you could carve them on the mountain ranges. You could sing them to the tune of "Yankee Doodle." But you needn't. You needn't do any of those things, for those words are graven in the hearts of Veterans, every sound, every syllable. If you must write them, put them on my Stone. But when you speak them, speak them softly, proudly, and we will hear you, for "We were Soldiers."
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 15:25:52 (MST)

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http://www.intheshadowoftheblade.com/
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 13:14:05 (MST)

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Melody, the chopper that you saw is the star of "In the Shadow of the Blade".Its crewed by nam helicopter vets.They did a flim about it as it flew to many different locations in this country. The flim is premering very soon.Yes, it was shot down,patched up ( in country)and put back in service.Thats the case with many of the old hueys tho.A great helicopter.In the making of the film and the restoration of the helicopter,most,if not all,monies came thru donations.As with all good intentions,the story of the flim is not without drama and perversion of the orginal intent.Much infighting between crews (film) and money men resulted in some orginal folks being left behind in the (lime light),with a few trying their best to make LOTS of monies from this simple,historical endever. Even placing the helicopter in the Smithst..was not without infighting.For more info on this project,go to ITSOTB,or contact Cheryl Fries.by proably typing in her name.She and her hubby had much to do with the concept and implication of this endever.By the way,she is trying to start a new program,interviewing vets or having them answer questions on line with high school students.Cant say why,but personely,I didnt like the questions,but thats just me.There werent any stupid ones. If anyone wants to contact her,let me know and I will see if I can get an e mail addy for you.
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 08:04:37 (MST)

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Hello to all my brothers and sisters.Just thoughtI say hello to you all. How you doing Rob, Had a grate B/D thanks, Alex and mark it was nice talking to you.Rick I try calling you back today, I still walk my 2 miles a day even in the cold.Iam boing ok. Cant wait to go to Indy to see you all ,and meet more of you all.Well you all take care,be safe. a brother always Ray
Ray <stilwating@aol.com>
MD USA - Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 06:33:52 (MST)

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Forgot to add also that this helicopter was shot down in Vietnam in 67' or at least that is what they said.
Melody Pershall
USA - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 20:05:26 (MST)

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Been a while since I've been here. Last week my grandpa's doc said that he more than likely has alzheimers. So we've been dealing with that. This past sunday we were headed home from my grandparents and heard the loudest thing...i'm guessing a sound ya'll are used to. It was a Vietnam era Huey. Its the one thats headed to the Smithsonian's Vietnam display. It was something. We raced to get a camera and got back in time to see it land and take off a few times. It was so awesome to see it. Brought a few tears to my eyes. Got a few pretty good pictures. Oh and thanks to a bunch of my post on the web about my uncle an old school friend of his called me a month or so ago. At least I found someone from his past that could tell me more of what he was like.....made all the post worth it.
Melody Pershall <melody1181@yahoo.com>
Amarillo, TX USA - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 20:03:56 (MST)

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Fred A. I should have said the most NASCAR shops in the country. I never even thought about Indy cars etc. Have been to lots of NASCAR races and would love to see Indy one time. Went to several formula i when I lived in Europe and they were great. Did not know you worked for Lowe's. My wife dropped here insurance with them. We both had blue cross blue shield but her meds were almost 3 times as much. ie Zyrtec 14.55 with mine and 45.00 with hers. Plus since I work for gov I get to keep mine when I retire which will be NOV 31. Need to leave the VA before I need to stay as patient. Have fun with new house. We did that when Lowe's moved to Mooresville and I am not sure we will ever finish. Fred S.- I forwarded a nurse joke to you. Pretty funny. Adding to that "Do you know the difference between a rectal thermometer and an oral thermometer?" Only the taste!
jeff
USA - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 16:42:53 (MST)

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Nextel Cup-----what about the "Passion Car!" Anyone getting visuals from those words:>) Gently.
Gently
USA - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 10:49:16 (MST)

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Naa,Gale, I work at the lowes on W.10th street. I Dont believe I want to change stores at this time.I did train at the avon store tho.Dang, just priced 6x8 foot sections of fence.cheapest is 22 bucks a section.4x4 post are 6 bucks each.arghhhh.Hmm, maybe the fence will have to wait a while.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 08:35:39 (MST)

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Alvis, I know the area that you moved to...real nice up in there. I bet you guys are glad to get away from that garage and the noise. Are you gonna transfer to that Lowes or is that the one you work for now? Everytime we go through Avon there's something new been added or being built. I'm not sure when, but, I'll call ahead of time if I'm gonna stop by. Ron Paye, you still planning on the cook-out before the reunion? Let us know what to bring to help you out. Clear, Gale
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 05:41:37 (MST)

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Hey Shadow,Your the only pilot I know thatwas there when 615 was there.You ever drive it?Yeck, I might have flown on it,or Jim westwang could have. Jeff,Indy isnt to bad on the race car shops either.Place here called gasoline ally is full of shops and out in Brownsburg,there are a bunch of drag team shops.Stuffs all over the place here.Hey,I work for Lowes also out here.Damn place took health insurance out of my check for daghter,who wasnt covered,and now will not give it back.Hmmm, wonder if I should have a fence building party at my house during the reunion.I need to build a privacy fence around the back yard.naaa,will do it as soon as ground thaws.Anyone close to columbus georgia?.we had a guy in the unit,I knew his sis and brother in high school.Knew him slightly then also,name is Woodward.he was in maintanance.Gale,I am off wendsday and thursday this week.Stop on by ,if you have a mind to.I live very close to the Lowes in avon,off rockville road.When you get to Lowes,( Dan jones road)turn left.next light,turn right.( county road 100)go to first new housing devoloment.turn right.end of road ,turn right,again,end of road turn right.4th house from end,sea breeze drive.take care all.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 21:30:26 (MST)

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Spoke with the curator of the Maine Transportation Museum, Galen Cole. He's very interested in locating someone who flew/crewed 915, which was in our unit from 4/71-??? Obviously they'd like to find a Maine resident, but, the're willing to provide transportation if necessary, to someone who'd be willing to help dedicate her. According to him, on Memorial Day, they'll be unveiling three items, 915, an M-60 tank, and a statue depicting a wounded GI, a nurse, and an infantryman. I've been invited to participate..but...they'd really like to have someone who actually flew her. Any of you pilot types have any contacts in the VHPA???? Thanks for any assistance......the bread and milk routine is common up here, too. There's something about the weather guessers yakking about the winter storm warnings that seem to bring the foolishness out in us!
Kim
Livermore, USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 19:20:10 (MST)

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Robbie, I was with 129th 4-70 to 4-71 first as pilot in 2nd platoon and then to maintenance plt. Same time as Fred S., Cups, and several others that we hear from in here. Mooresville is about 25 miles north of Charlotte. We have Yates racing, Felix Sabates, Joe Gibbs, several others and of course DEI. DEI is really cool with a lot of # 3 stuff. They now field Dale Jr and Michael Waltrip a Busch car and some other stuff. When Dale Sr was killed it was a nut house around there. Fans from all over country and a few foreign ones came to pat respects. We, my wife and I are Jimmie Johnson fans as she is employed at Lowe's Companies corporate office and we could never root for the guy from Home whats-its-name! See ya !
jeff
USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 17:50:14 (MST)

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Yeah Jeff, i guess you got me. I should have specified. I don't know who's a Martha fan except Rosie..I'm not sure where Mooresville is, but sounds like you're in the middle of racing country. I agree with you, I can't get used to saying Nextel Cup either. I get down to see my Brother in Chesapeake Va every now and then, and he's a Jr. fan. I don't hold it against him though. He was a no 3 fan too. When were you at the 129th?.... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 16:59:54 (MST)

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Robbie, Is that Martha Stewart or Tony Stewart? All of us Mooresville, NC(aka Race City USA) folks know Jimmie Johnson will take it all this year followed closely by local boy Dale Jr. If you ever get down this way let me know and I'll take you on the race team shop tour. We have more here than anywhere else in the country. Just can't get used to NEXTEL CUP. Sounds kind of funny.
jeff
Race City, NC USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 15:33:57 (MST)

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Hello Flight..... Had a problem with my puter for awhile. Something called Spyware giving me fits. Finally got back on and find out you guys are talking about things you shouldn't. Religion/Politics/assholes.... Ray, did you have anotgher Birthday? Can't believe those things keep coming around that fast. Hope you had a good one. Been trying to keep warm here and Damn that Jr. I'm a Stewart fan. Oh well as soon as the restrictor plate races are over, Jr. will drop back where he should be. Mark, glad your Dad is still going strong. Hope everyone else is doing ok.. Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 09:57:12 (MST)

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Louis-Welcome home(I'm one of the old ladies)! Your next step is to join us at the re-union in June. You guys sure had fun with GWB-I got many a good laugh at his/her expense. Off to the med cabinet-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 09:34:23 (MST)

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Hello y'all!!!! Linda and I just got in, had quite a time...Saw Fred,(time does fly!!!!) met with one of Linda's high school friends in maryland, had a visit with her mom, in Florida, spent a few days in Key West, And had lunch with my eldest and family, in Gettysburg!!! Now it's time to get back to the salt mine!!! We decided that if the old paper mill shuts down, we're probably going to try and live in Key west. There's a significant gay community there,(referencing the previous postings). I guess I'm a "live and let live" type. As long as it's not being pushed on me, I don't care what consenting adults do!!! I feel that I know the bible better than a lot of people, ( my mom was a missionary) and I've learned to be leery of anyone who uses it to justify an opinion, there is justification in there for anything!! Biggest problem I have with both Islam and Christianity,both are exlusive. It's either" believe", or you're an infidel!!! Alvis..C-2 vets are great cars.. getting to be worth something. First vet I had was a 67. 400 small block, pumped out 300 horses, passed everything but the gas station!!! Freddie. thanks for the hospitality, I had an emotional ride for quite a while after leaving your place, thankfully, Linda was there to help me stay in the road! We missed the snowstorms, even got to take a ride through the Blue Ridge mountains, while listening to Daytona! There's some pretty country out there, foah showa!!!
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 08:41:52 (MST)

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Alex, I found some pics, but, I couldn't get them off my CD.....havin' some trouble with my puter. Sorry, Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, February 16, 2004 at 15:25:04 (MST)

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Flight: Sorry to have been awol for a while. Back at work!!! Would like to Welcome Home all our new Brothers whom found the Home of The 129th. Yesterday met 5 Nam vets whom came in the store. Ray late Birthday greetings. Was good talking to you last week. I appreciate the response on the pictures for the VHCMA!! I ended up printing some off the gallery. But, thanks to all I talked to. Rooms for the reunion is going fast!! Plus try and have your registration form mailed in may 1st if possible. It will give me an idea on how large of a room to get. Great to see all the como. Mark sorry miss you call. Take Brother and say hello to the Family. Keith hope you didn't get too much snow down in Mississippi. They can't drive on dry roads as it is. Will try to hook up with you one day. Alex
Alex
USA - Monday, February 16, 2004 at 09:34:53 (MST)

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Fred S. Good for you and Kim. Also another "big" snow storm is headed your way. To bad Kim couldn't be there for it. He would have had a hoot with all our local southern friends. Remember my motto "No bread and milk for me"
Jeff
USA - Sunday, February 15, 2004 at 19:37:14 (MST)

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Jeff, Thank youfor the info. Do you know how I can access the flight logs for 1970?? I would really like to see the picture if you can find it. I have moved several times over the years and I can't find the pictures that I had. Lou
Louis
USA - Sunday, February 15, 2004 at 14:54:25 (MST)

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Well Flight...Kim LaVoie just took off from my house. What a emotional filled meeting. God it was great to meet MY Brother Kim.....truly wonderful. We talked and talked for hours never stopping for minute. We have so much more in common than I ever imagined...I would have hung out with Kim when we were young. I`m really lost for words on how great it was. Let me gather myself here.....something like that hasn`t touched me in years
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 15, 2004 at 11:20:30 (MST)

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Tail number for recovery a/c was 740. Look in helicopter section and you can find the first four. I have a picture of it somewhere sitting at LZ Uplift. Will see if I can find it. I know Sgt Bell is in the picture but can't remember who else without seeing it.
jeff
USA - Sunday, February 15, 2004 at 08:31:18 (MST)

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Served with the 129th Dec. 69-Dec. 70. Assigned to maintanence section and recovery. Call sign for recovery aircraft was Snow Snake 1. Anyone with information of tail # please contact me. My E-mail is MaRags1@AOL.com.
Louis Ragonese <MaRags1@AOL.com>
Dover, DE USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 23:47:53 (MST)

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Thanks loads Mark, Joe A was with me in 67-68 and I lost contact with him about 10 years ago. Right..your Dad seemed like a pretty special fella and was proud when you showed us around the shop. We got to meet your Dad & Larry that day at the cemetary. Alvis, I'll have to check out your new pad someday. Debbie got picked for "grand jury duty". She's got to be at the courthouse in Indy every two weeks (for 2 days) through July. I go with her and stay in the Radisson. It's great being retired! I'll probably make a "Top" run during one of those trips. Clear, Gale
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 23:19:48 (MST)

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and a grand old man he is.Glad I met him.Hope I hit the lotto,there is a 65 vette,coupe,here for sale for 25.love that body style.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 16:02:04 (MST)

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...Gale B....for some reason the addy for Joe A did not show up...here it is...shermsrealty@hotmail.com heading inbound to the beacon.
Pop-A-TopII
USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 13:00:54 (MST)

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....Afternoon Flight. Hope all is well.......Gale B.......here is Joe A's Email address that you requested the other day. It soon will be in the CONTACTS section also.....J.W..I used to do my withdrawls with Mr. Jack Daniels. Really messed up me spellin' all the time;-)............Got the grand daughter over today. Man what hoot she is. 3 months old and full of smiles!!!!!!!.....found an old 8th grand year book of my dad's the other day and in the ambition part he listed he wanted to be a millionaire. Dambed if he did'nt go and do it!.....also found a paper from his high school that read november 14 ,44. We are happy to inform you that the credits you have earned while in the Armed Services have givin you a sufficient for graduation from Munhall HS. I did'nt know that they did that to to those who left school in WWII to fight.......my ole' man is one hell of a guy. His health is failing a bits, but he is holding on......those of you that have met him know what a strong willed man he is. 78 and still working everyday. He resently has been telling me that he wont be around much longer. I told him, Heaven don't want him, and hell is afriad he will take over:-)))))))...you'll be around fer a while yet pop's. I love that man......take care ya'all.....will see ya in here on and off today.....lookin forward to INDY......always a brother....mark
Pop-A-TopII
USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 12:57:50 (MST)

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Hi guys and ladies of the 129th, my puter is in shop for awhile and I am in Wilimington at my daughter's and had to check out the 129th. fighting puter withdrawl with jim beam
J.W. Wilson
USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 11:10:10 (MST)

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GWB ?? George W. Bush ??? Naaa..........couldn't be, could it? Sounds about as bright as him. Rule out "Guy With Balls" for sure! It could be "Guy With-out Balls". My guess is it's some "young, un-informed, worthless twerp that has no friends and Mommy bought him a computer to passify him". Anyway flight, don't confuse his made up initials with GPB !! Clear, Gale P Beard
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 09:38:34 (MST)

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By the way....Dave Powers....You have permission to go hot......
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 07:23:15 (MST)

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GWB.....Gay White Boy...Whoops..I`m a liberal and this is a family channel....Goofy Weird Bast--d.....Gee guys don`t call the FCC on me.....gosh I`m trying to think who you could be.....by the way GWB...I`m just trying to get my vehicle fixed that`s all. It appears that the G in your first name stands for God.....things kinda going slow up there. I hardly think so....You make reference to "your war", what war were you in? And Mr. X....Where in the hell are you coming from.....I may have answered my own question. They call it schizophrenia...... Are you a disgrunted right winger....with your "druge report". You managed to insult both the Right and Left. Well let me go and take my vioxx and comb my gray hair. Mr.X and GWB....I have no problem if you two want to get married...you make a wonderful couple.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 14, 2004 at 07:19:53 (MST)

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.......HEY!!!!!....am I on the puter?....dang, I thought somebody said that the supper bowl was on so I turned the TV on to get something to eat, and ended up here.....gonna have to call the plumber tomorrow to get this dang bar fixed...wasnt there a group called the bartles in the 60's that sang a song called, I wanna hold your foot?.......BTW...Leviticus 18:22,King James version,Thou shall not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it "IS" abomination......The living Bible....Homosexuality is absoluetly forbidden, for it is an enormous sin......RSV Bible, You shall not lie with a male, as with a woman: it is an abomination....And the Life Recovery Bible....Do Not practice homosexuality; it is a detestable sin........Oh, one more thing...Proverbs 6:12,19....."Let me discribe for you a worthless and wicked man; first, he is a constant liar;he signals his true intentions to his friends with eyes and feet and fingers.Next, his heart is full of rebellion. And he spends his time thinking of all the evil he can do, and stirring up discontent. But he will be distroyed suddenly, broken beyond hope of healing. For there are six things the Lord hates----no, seven:......Haugtiness , Lying , Murdering , Plotting evil , Eagerness to do wrong , A false witness , and sowing discord among brothers... my personal feelings are, to emulate God would be, to strive to equal or excel by imitating God. Seems that you, Mr."X", have reached the exceled part in being better then God, because now you would have us to disbelieve God's word, and believe yours....ya know, somebody else tried that once, I believe his name is Lucifer. it's a good thing God loves everybody! AMEN.....brothers and sisters of the 129th...."KEEPERS"....as frenchie put it, keep on keeppin' on......love ya more.......Mark AKA Pop-A-TopII
Pop-A-TopII
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 19:51:04 (MST)

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hey guys,thanksfor reminding me to take my meds.Hope the weather allows me to hobble across the room.if my damn car worked, I could drive it to the bedroom and get my meds,but,I cant remember where i left the keys.My asshole isnt selfish,it lets everyone know what time it is and it does give a shit.I hate the idea of pass words to get in here but it does seem to have merit at times. Proably couldnt remember it anyway.What was we talking about?Old Bars? no,thats not it..ahh it was cars...yes, that was a darn good group with great songs.Speaking of songs,I bought a good one at the local head shop...oopppps , that was a bong.Bong?, is the clock chiming? opps. time to take my meds,or did I do that or say that already?Have a great hearing aid,guy ask me what kind it was and I told him 3 o-clock.What site am I in anyway>?This doesnt look like " grow 27 inches longer" site i was trying to get.Damn,where are those meds?Need to take them so I can watch the supper bowl this sunday.
alvis
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 18:16:51 (MST)

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Selfish Ahole?????Hummmmmmmm;-)....sometimes that part of me is the most unselfish part of me. It reminds me many times daily to use it......Gently....did I take my meds today?....I know I was suppose to take one to help me remember better, but I cant remember if I took it or not. Thanks for the card sweetie....Hey gang.....pronounce "GWB" as a young child would, Ga,wa,B.........GWB, my brother is here no more, forever 21 years old, so you could set at your computer and learn something. Hopefully you will.......but then again, since you know it all aready, and so much that you could call US selfesh, you probably wont. By the way, do have a picture of your grandmother, or wife, or children, or anybody that you may have had in your life that was special to you, and are now gone hanging on the wall?......if so why? Maybe because you want to remember them?......if you do....you better take it down. You may look selfish to somebody.............Happy birthday Ray.....good talking to you the other day.......good to see you in here Frenchie.....Hey "X"....with all those X's, you and that "mugu" with all his "O's" that stumbles in here should get together and you guys could spend the rest of your lil' life together on a remote island playin' tic tac toe instaed of coming in here and takeing up valuable space in here.......always a brother, love you all...and I mean all in here........Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 17:24:37 (MST)

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and it took untill 1975 to kill the other58,500 of us.No where did I see anyone say that black flag repersents only nam vets.You misread or are putting words in mouths.However,the vast number of e mails to chi-town where from nam vets.That was in defense of our downed brothers,and all other mia/pows.To defend that black flag IS to honor those that have given all AND their familys.Try reading it again when you are sober.We know of honor as few do.What we did was for each other over there,not for king and country.We know of honor among ourselves,as the world and country turned their backs to us,shruging off our sacerfice,our wounds and our scars.We still fight today against the ignorance of an uncaring public.We were sprayed and betrayed,shunned and scorned by almost all except close family.We choked down our bewilderment and our pride,our scars and our hurts,no one cared except to scorn.Honor? Pride? Bravery? Duty?Self-sacerfice? Dont come in here and try to tell these Warriors,these finest men,about any of that.We have walked the walk ANd can talk the talk. your turn, or has your mommie told you to get off the computer?
alvis
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 17:17:53 (MST)

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GWB-the POW-MIA represents soldiers POW-MIA from all wars. You thought is just represented Vietnam Veterans? Silly you. But it was the Vietnam Veterans who stressed that it represent all, not just them. Perhaps you just misunderstood. And the weather here today is cold. Oh, guys...don't forget to take your meds. :>) Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 15:06:28 (MST)

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What a bunch of selfish assholes. All wigged out about POW/MIA flag of "your" war, but don't give a shit about the soldiers bleeding, dying, fearing and alone, in today's war in Iraq. 532 dead as of 2/11/04....It took until 1964 for that many soldiers to be killed in Vietnam! Talkin about the weather, how to fix cars, "old ladies"talk about what meds you take, etc. is the REAL way to HONOR those of the 129th.
GWB
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 14:02:36 (MST)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAY
Keith 72-73
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 14:00:13 (MST)

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Thank you for sharing that story Fred. I'm sure most of us have read it before, but the feeling and emotion it arouses, the pause to ponder we take, and the reminder of its gist never grow old or tiresome. Thank you my friend. Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 12:49:11 (MST)

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This has been around before but it is always special to read again: THE CAB RIDE Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living. When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window. Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute, then drive away. But, I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself. So I walked to the door and knocked. "Just a minute", answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor. After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80's stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie. By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware. "Would you carry my bag out to the car?" she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman. She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness. "It's nothing", I told her. "I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated". "Oh, you're such a good boy", she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, "Could you drive through downtown?" "It's not the shortest way," I answered quickly. "Oh, I don't mind," she said. "I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice". I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening. "I don't have any family left," she continued. "The doctor says I don't have very long." I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. "What route would you like me to take?" I asked. For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing. As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, "I'm tired. Let's go now." We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair. "How much do I owe you?" she asked, reaching into her purse. "Nothing," I said. "You have to make a living," she answered. "There are other passengers," I responded. Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly. "You gave an old woman a little moment of joy," she said. "Thank you." I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut.It was the sound of the closing of a life. I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away? On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life. We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware - beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one. PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID, ~BUT ~ THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.
alvis
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 11:49:16 (MST)

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Mr. XXX - Identify yourself, or be shot. Take your dribble elsewhere.
Dave Powers
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 11:46:25 (MST)

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Happy Birthday ray. May the remaining years be good to you and yours.
alvis
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 08:29:29 (MST)

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Ray old buddy..........and I do mean "OLD BUDDY" !!!!!!! :o) Happy Birthday Ray and I hope you have a wonderful day. Gale & Debbie
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 07:25:37 (MST)

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HAPPY 55TH BIRTHDAY RAY GAGNER!!!!! MAY YOU HAVE MANY,MANY MORE!!! Love you my friend, Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, February 13, 2004 at 06:53:04 (MST)

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You are a KeeperÉ I really thought this was important to read. I think and hope all of will keep me in your hearts. What more can there be in life,Comrads in arms, friends and relatives that care. Frenchie It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy. All that re-fixing, reheating, renewing. I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there'd always be more. But then my Mother died, and on that clear summer's night. In the warmth of the hospital room, I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any 'more.' Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away.... never to return. So...while we have it...it's best we love it.....and care for it .....and fix it when it's broken.....and heal it when it's sick. This is true.....for marriage.....and old cars..... and children with bad report cards.....and dogs with bad hips..... and aging parents.....and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it. Some things we keep. Like a best friend that moved away -- or -- a classmate we grew up with. There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special..... And so, we keep them close! I received this from someone who thought I was a 'keeper'! Everyone please, "keep on, keeping on" Because every one of you are worth it.... All you 129th 394th Viet Nam comrads are Keepers!
Bill French 68-69
Savannah, Ga USA - Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 19:46:07 (MST)

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Tom-here's my email. The one is our directory is old. Jsinger@uwm.edu Looking forward to hearing from you. I talked to our delightful Rick England.....he's such a hoot. He plans on making Indy....and maybe Kokomo! Always there-Judith
Gently
USA - Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 14:24:44 (MST)

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Judith, I tried to send you some info for the 129th fund, but the E-mail came back. Will you send me your E-mail address, I might have the wrong one. Thanks, Tom Pedersen
Tom Pedersen <safetyshark@aol.com>
Lawrenceville , Ga USA - Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 08:57:27 (MST)

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Ie mailed him about the first article. Those of you that also did so,thanks,job well done.On another note,how can someone have so much crap stored in there house. Jeeze,I have a two car garage now,and there is just a tiny,narrow pathway ,leading to the side door.Yes, we are in the new house now,thank you to those who well wished us. Alex,I wish you well in your moving adventure,still shaking my head over mine and have just moved stuff from there to here,not in the house yet To post pics , you have to get ahold of Mark Jackson, the generous owner of this site.For anyone in the D.C. area,"in the shadow of the blade"is premering at the d,c. flim festival.Its a film starring a genuine nam slick,touring the country,being flown and crewed by nam heli vets.I guess its a documentary, a darn good one.Gale,I now live 10 minutes closer to you.I am near the Lowes in Avon,on rockville road.Next time you and Debbie are in town,we will have to have lunch or supper together.Call me a smuck,but I kept the xmas tree orntement you sent out.Tink it might find a home very near my pc desk.Shadow, good to see you post.Wooo hooo.4 days in a row above freezing here. ..over.
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 08:33:46 (MST)

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LAtest article about mia/pow flag. Below is the excerpt that pertained to POW?MIA flag. I believe him. Collateral damage It has been a disturbing week, for me. In fact, in my 20 years of newspapering in Chicago, I can't recall anything more disturbing. Last week, I wrote about the black POW/MIA flag. I thought -- as with the Bush button -- I was directing my fire at a slur against the government. But whatever I thought I was shooting at, I ended up hitting a lot of proud soldiers and grieving relatives, and I'm sorry for that. I got 500, maybe 1,000 e-mails -- I lost count. Many took my opinion -- those flags seem to say something negative -- and twisted it into the most extreme, treacherous, anti-vet attitude they could imagine, a blanket damnation of history, heroism and the country itself. Their replies couldn't have been stronger had I suggested we dig up Arlington Cemetery and build a theme park. Full-bore outrage mixed with the harshest personal attack. Lots of name-calling. Lots of out-of-the-blue anti-Semitism. More death threats than the typical column generates. Which puzzled me. Because, if I came across someone who I thought was completely wrong about something, and I wanted them to understand why they are wrong, I don't think I would begin my argument by telling them what a loathsome moron they are and how I'm going to kill them. But that is a logical argument, and as I read through the responses -- and I must have read hundreds -- I quickly understood that this is not an area of cool logic, but of hot passion, of raw, hard emotion, built up through loss and suffering and acts of heroism met by a shrugging public, a shrugging public that I had volunteered to become the poster boy for. My opinion was a stick I had shoved into an open wound. That's what bothered me most of all. It wasn't being called names -- I get called names every day. I am a Jew, so the intended insult doesn't sting. It was who was doing the calling and why they were flinging those terms. Being accused by vets of being anti-vet hurt because I'm not ignorant of history -- though I did not realize that the black flag isn't a relic, but means something vital to all sorts of people today, people who don't think that the government is a spider's nest of treachery. I'm not the guy those vets were attacking. I'm the guy who trots his kids onto the front porch on Veterans Day and has them say the pledge with their hands over their hearts and then tells them about how the Rangers went up those cliffs at Normandy into the teeth of the Nazi machine guns, and that's why we get to loaf around all day. For those who managed to write civilly, despite their feelings, thank you, it was an education. And for those who heard a twig snap and began firing into the darkness of cyberspace, you may not know it and certainly won't accept it, but you hit a friend
alvis
USA - Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 08:12:49 (MST)

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Hi guys. Does anyone know how to add pictures to the gallery I have had all of mine that I can find transfered to dvd disk so that I can view them on my TV or computer. Please let me know. Thanks "Cobra Chief"
David Redmon <dredmon@satx.rr.com>
USA - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 at 20:51:12 (MST)

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Gale and Ray, the emails I got from each of you showed up with the worm virus in them. You may want to check your computers. Ours will not let us open emails with the virus.Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Collierville, USA - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 at 20:23:08 (MST)

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Robbie - I would very much like to have a copy of that picture of Don Trout. We Soldiered a lot together but got separated when we left the 129th, he went to Ft Eustis & I went back to Ft Rucker. He was so big, when he got out of a small "B" Model I always wanted to check the skids for spread. Clear!!!
Frank Loveday <bluecobra7@yahoo.com>
Bastrop, La. USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 19:46:25 (MST)

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Welcome J.C and John. Please post often and plan on attending the re-union. For those of you who want to swamp the office of the Publisher of the Chicago Sun Times with your response to Neil Steinbergs' editorial on the POW-MIA flag, don't send emails:letters take up more desk space, cause more work, and are noticed for the pain they can be. If you do send an email-follow it up with a letter. But don't bother responding to Neil-we already know how he feels. Write the publisher. His name is John Cruickshan, and his actual title is Publisher and C.O.O. the address is, Chicago-Sun Times 401 N. Wabash chicago IL 60611 From a "social" member-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 13:26:41 (MST)

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Mark, I like your "spirit"......................we've all been worried about you. Hopefully we can make a "Top" run during Indy so all can say they've been there. Mark, I lost contact with Joe Alvarado a few years ago. Do you have any info on him? Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 12:26:19 (MST)

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Flight, I talked to one of our brothers over the weekend and I wanted to pass on some information to the 129th family. J.C. Watson was a pilot with the 129th in 1968. He would like to hear from any who served with him. I would also like to ask all to remember him in your prayers because like many who served, he has the additional burden of dealing with Agent Orange induced illness. Welcome home J.C., thanks for serving your country. I have his address and phone number.
Tom Pedersen <safetyshark@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, ga USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 10:43:35 (MST)

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Well good to hear from you Brother Mark!! Everything will work out for you!! And you can take that to the bank. We all have those good times and Bad times. But, you have that pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow. Wonderful Wife , Children , Son-in-law's , Grand Children ann the 129th Family. You can't go wrong with all that. Fred and Susan hope you got moved in OK!! Liz and I are still unpacking. It just takes time to get settled in a new home. We tend to acquire alot of stuff over the years. Hope you all will be Happy in that new home. Fred S. It would be to your advantage to fix the ac system. But, first go to Autozone or another parts store. And get some 134 dye that you can put in the a/c system to find a leak. Also you could have a bad cycling swith. The switch if bad won't let the a/c clucth cycle which in turns won't let the system work. It's real common problem. I see it every spring. You can buy a maintence manual which can help you troublr shoot. If the clucth isn't kicking in. Try replacing the switch first. Gently hope you and Joe's trip was rewarding. And we proud of you both. Need to know more about the Libary. Good to all posting. Remember if you need a Registration form for the reunion email me and I can send you one. Or if you have any questions about the reunion. The earlier we get the registrations into the VHCMA. It gives us a idea on how large of a room will need to accommodate each unit. Always A Brother Alex. Ray and Don was good talking to you.
Alex <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
TN USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 10:38:18 (MST)

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Mark, sure is good to see you posting again. I was a little worried about you BRO. glad you are doing fine. we all have our moments ..... good for a while then bad for a while. we just hope the bad times are short and the good times are long. glad to hear also that Pop-A-Top will stay in the family. hope the kids do well with it. I have only seen 4 pic's of the place and have never been there but it is kind of like a home for the 129th. almost like knowing that the Orderly Room is being manned. you know that sounds crazy after I re-read it. but that is how I have felt about it. you didn't have to go to the Orderly Room every day to know it was there but just knowing it was there was comforting. the 129th still lives. sorry ....... I am coming out of a BAD time myself. and I guess knowing the Pop-A-Top will still be there is helping. believe it or not I got a lump in my throat when I read your post below. the good kind. good luck finding a job Mark. later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 21:40:34 (MST)

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Mark, glad to see ya back in here, you sound good!! Just say to yourself-- there has to be a job out there for a handsome devil like me" and it will be so. Also glad to hear about the Bar, i want to see it & my opportunity will be in conjunction with Indy. Kal, I never got your response but have a helluva spam filter now myself " could have been me" at any rate let me know some time. It looks like i go right through Tomah, Wisc--straight across I-90 from here. Fred A. Congrats on the home to you & your Bride & got your addy & telly. Am looking forward to meeting you "again" after these years>>> love & respects to all>>>smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 20:57:49 (MST)

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..Hey all...lookit here....it's me....yeah Mark.......WHAT THE H AM I DOING HERE????;-))))) Great to see all the commo in here. I just finished going throught all my back logged e-mail from March of 2003 till now and sent lots of new names of 129th guys to David, The web master, and some e-mail changes that some have sent me also. Give David some time and they will be up. Names like Art Kidd, Richard Muirhead, John D. Redman, Steve Webber, Goerge Scott, Larry Lackey, Keith Shaw, Henry Garza, Mac Mchugh, Terrell Haynes, Don Miller, Joe Alvarado, Lenny Adams, Ronald Keith Letson, And got more to do.............all is very well here...Dee and I are doing Great and so are all the kids and grandkids and sons in laws. It's great to have this family and the one here on the net. I love all of you and remember you are the voice of Larry.........sorry to be down and out for such a spell but the "WORLD" got the best of me fer a spell. I am up and runnin' now and the Pop-A-Top WILL be open during the reunion in INDY...........dicided not to sell it and our one son in law and daughter are going to give it a go for awhile to see how they can do with it.ME???...I gotta go out and find a job......geeeesh!!!!!!!.....ya know?.....I have come to the conclusion that owning your own business is not all it's cracked up to be;-).....but it was a learning thang while it lasted...........still gonna keep all the artufacts in it and it is still the official club house of the 129th AHC. So if ever in the AO, come and rest a spell............best get some sleep....gotta pound the turff tomorrow lookin' fer a job........dont make much diffewrence what I do. Dont need much pay. Have all the riches I need already in a wife of 31 years that still loves me, 3 wonderful daughters and their wonderful husbands, 3 wonderfully, outstanding grandkids, and a Harley in the garage. Just need a lil' money for some gas and as long as I can get to the store and get a LB of Bolagna and a lough of bread.........the rest is cheese...Right???...take care all......any articfacts that you want displayed at the Pop-A-Top, send them to me.....Policy is this, the artifact will always belong to you. If you ever want it back, just ask, but I would be HONORED to put anything on display.......God Bless you all............always a brother and sister, Mark and Dee
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 20:36:57 (MST)

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GOT THIS FROM KIM .......SENDING IT ON TO ALL...TAKE CARE ALL IS WELL HERE. ALWAYS A BROTHER,MARK Mark, any wat to get this posted on the web site??? Hope all is well ----- Original Message ----- From: "Pat Trice" To: Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2004 9:06 AM Subject: Huey 015 Good Morning, Kim: I received your e-mail and also an e-mail from Bob Alberts with your attachment. I understand that you were coming to Bangor on Sunday (2/1) to see the Huey located outside of our museum. Unfortunately, our museum is closed for the winter and we are working out of our winter office above Bennett Tire @ 510 Perry Road. We do not open again until May 1 (we'll be over there getting things ready the last week in April). At this point we do not have much information on this Huey but we are in the process of gathering historical facts including personnel who may have flown or been transported on this aircraft. So, any information you may have would be greatly appreciated. We are making plans to dedicate the Vietnam Memorial dedication on Memorial Day, 5/31/04 - if you drove up on Sunday, you probably noticed the statue and memorial covered with blue tarps. Please forward to us your address and phone number so that we may be in touch via phone or mail. Thank you so much for your quick response. Pat Trice, Administrative Assistant
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 20:00:32 (MST)

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Kal, good to see you on here. Free beer at the reunion......................as I recall , you usually get your fair share too!!;o] Welcome home to the new guys. We hope to see you on here often & at the reunions. Flight, if you didn't catch Alvis' info on the Chicago columist...scroll down & get the website. I sent him "my" opinion on his opinion!! Alvis, is this another house that you bought or the one you were wanting? Either way......I hope it has a garage! Congrats Fred & Susan! Clear, Gale
Gale Beard 67-68
USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 17:56:23 (MST)

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Hello Flight.... Frank, Yes our Plt Sgt. was named Trout and he certainly was a big guy. He flew gunner for me one day when we were having trouble getting people to fly. Had some officers fly gunner for me also. I have a picture of him standing by my ship. He could put his foot on the stinger of an H model while almost standing flat footed. I don't have any idea where he is, but will send you the picture if you post your email address. Good to hear from you...Going to Elmira tomorrow for my oldest Grandaughter's Birthday. She will be 7. Man do i feel old. wouldn't miss it for the world though. Hope everyone is doing well... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 16:44:58 (MST)

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Boy, lots of como here lately!!.. Welcome home John and Dick!!.. Glad to see you found us. Lots of great people and memories here. It took a lot of us a long time to reach out and get in contact. After supressing the thoughts of VN for a long time it sure is good to see and meet the crew again. I hope you new fellows will try to make it to Indy in June for the VHCMA reunion!! This will be my 4th reunion and they only seem to get better!! The 129th has had a mini at the reunions for longer than I have been there and that part of it is really great. ALSO, the BEER is FREE!! Jim W., Hi smitty.. I replyed to you email a month or so ago but it may have got moved to the spam folder.... I am not sure if I will be riding down to Indy as of yet as the wife will be attending also. I told her I may ride with you and haven't really got a feel for her response..I will let you know as things get closer.. Well, thats about it from here for now.. I really hope to see ALL of you in INDY in june. THINK SPRING!!..... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu(a)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 09:33:01 (MST)

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moving yesterday,today,tommorow,and tuesday.will be off line.
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 09:00:43 (MST)

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Damn Jeff...I haven`t seen your post that fired up before....you go Dude...Kim and Alex....the first recharge I got them to tested it because I had it stored in my cousins barn for 4 1/2 years. Last year they ran the pressure test and it held....so tell me your opinions now. Honestly...I`ll never trade it...I love my pick-up truck. My wife is a country girl...so she`s "at home" in a truck. We sit down one time and figured up how much we have spent on "New Vehicles" in our 20 years of marriage....February 4th this week was our anniversary...we spent a small fortune. We`ve just become to Bohemian!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 20:30:12 (MST)

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Maybe while I'm good and pissed I should invite him down to the VA and meet some of the former POWs from WWII and Korea that I see everyday who have been institutionalized for years because of the torture and horrors they experienced fighting for his right of freedom of the press. When you hear a man who repeats over and over "kill me kill me kill me" for hours on end it gives one a much different perspective on things!
jeff
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 18:10:00 (MST)

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I wish that POW/MIA idiot would sit down to dinner with my cousin's wife and children just one time. Maybe he would print a retraction. Since Larry(then CPT but presumed dead as COL) Elton "Larry" Perrine who has not been seen since 22 May 67 when his F4 disappeared over the north has not been around to have dinner with them. That article really pisses me off!!!!!
jeff
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 18:00:28 (MST)

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I agree with alex regarding O rings. If you want, you can pick up a can of freon detector, and try pinpointing the leak yorself.It would be a shame to buy a new compressor if the leak is just a loose connection. Compressors usually run a few hundred bucks. It's steep, but, a lot less than payments on a new ride! 96? that's nearly new to me!!! With the exception of the Grand Marquis,(97), everything I own is in the 80's, (vett is 76)...I flew with Cpt. Able, who was platoon leader prior to Cpt. Roy..damned if I can remember his call sign!!! Who amoung us flew in 1st platoon, mid 71? Museum up here would like to find someone who crewed or flew 915 when it was in our unit.
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 16:03:41 (MST)

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Robbie - Did you have a Plt Sgt name of Don Trout? He was a big guy, great big. If any of you know his where-a-bouts I would sure like to get in touch with him. He was a good friend of mine. I was Plt Sgt Cobra Platoon Sep 69-Mar 70. Clear. Frank
Frank Loveday
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 14:18:50 (MST)

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Hello flight. Haven't been on the puter in a couple of days. Lots of Commo in here. Ray, that's great news about Kris. I'm glad everything went well. Welcome to Dick Chapman and John Redmon. It's always nice to find more of the 129th family. I was at Lane in 69-70 in the slicks.. second platoon. Fred A, i cannot believe that article about the POW/MIA flag. Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 13:56:21 (MST)

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Welcome home John! I hope to see you in Indy. Fred A have you gotten the tape on a disk? I tried at Walmart but they would not do it for me.
j.w. wilson
kinston, nc USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 12:34:21 (MST)

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Welcome Home John!!! I was there in 65/666 and also 67/68. Flew 1st platoon. I had some personnel rosters posted in the gallery section of web site. Fred S. You could have leaking o rings. Unless the compressor has locked up. Head to Autozone!! If you are going to replace the unit. Make sure you get the clutch and the compressor also a accumlator and expansion value. But, should have a mechanic check the system. Alex
Alex
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 07:30:35 (MST)

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Flight....Well all you fella`s are real mechanic`s....I`m not.....PROBLEM....My compressor for my air-conditioning in my truck( 96 Dodge Dakota) with a Magnum 6 engine went out yesterday.....The last two years I`ve had to re-charge my Air-conditioning but I`m sure it`s my compressor. How much will it cost to get one put in? Is it worth it? My truck has 86,000 miles on it...I guess that`s low milage for a 96. TALK TO ME . I`ll just trade it in if cost to much...but I love not having a payment due every month.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 07:00:31 (MST)

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John Redmon, welcome home brother.Pull up a chair and relax.
alvis
USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 03:34:17 (MST)

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I have just found out that their was a web site for the 129th and thought I would log in and say Hi. I was a pilot in the gun plt. from Sep66 until July 67. My call sign was Cobra Chief. My "King Cobra" was Cpt. Chapman who was from S. Carolina. I would very much like to hear from anyone who was there during this time as I have not seen anyone form the unit since leaving VN, except Mike Royce at Ft Wolters were we IP's after our tour.
JOHN DAVID REDMON <dredmon@satx.rr.com>
SAN ANTONIO, TX USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 20:36:41 (MST)

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Flight...this is the "one and only' concern that I ever had about women serving in a combat zone in a Islamic country. I never had a doubt about women being a good soldier and doing job to the highest of standards.......certain men are always gonna be DOGS no matter where they are............... WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld has ordered a probe into Pentagon (news - web sites) measures to prevent sex attacks within the ranks following a spate of reports of male troops abusing their female comrades in Iraq (news - web sites) and Kuwait, officials said on Friday. "Sexual assault will not be tolerated in the Department of Defense (news - web sites)," Rumsfeld said in a memo, released by the Pentagon, asking for a report and recommendations within 90 days. Rumsfeld requested an examination of policies relating to sexual assaults and the manner in which the U.S. military treats victims of such attacks and works to prevent them. Rumsfeld said he was concerned "about recent reports regarding allegations of sexual assaults on service members deployed to Iraq and Kuwait." The Pentagon said that in the Central Command region -- which includes Iraq and Kuwait as well as the Horn of Africa, the entire Gulf region and Central Asia including Afghanistan (news - web sites) -- the U.S. military had received reports in the past year of 88 cases of "sexual misconduct." Eighty involved Army soldiers, with seven from the Air Force and one from the Marines. The Pentagon did not give details of the individual cases, but said sexual assault may include rape, attempted rape, indecent assault and sodomy. The incidents involved U.S. military personnel attacking one another, with most of the cases involving women being assaulted by men, according to a defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Some female service members who have reported sexual assaults in Iraq and Kuwait have gone public with complaints the U.S. military often failed to launch criminal investigations into their allegations and did not provide them proper medical attention or counseling after an assault. Their complaints included allegations that male superiors retaliated against them after they accused a male comrade of sexual assault. 'NO EXCEPTION' Dozens of lawmakers have asked for congressional hearings into how the Pentagon has dealt with sexual assaults. "Sexual assault and rape should not be tolerated in any case -- the U.S. military is no exception," said West Virginia Republican Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (news, bio, voting record), co-chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues. A defense official called Rumsfeld's action "a prudent step," adding, "I wouldn't say that we've been lax." Rumsfeld's action also followed an investigation into whether the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado for years tolerated sexual assaults against female cadets. "Commanders at every level have a duty to take appropriate steps to prevent sexual assaults, protect victims and hold those who commit offenses accountable," Rumsfeld wrote in the memo, dated Thursday, to David Chu, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. "We are responsible for ensuring that the victims of sexual assault are properly treated, their medical and psychological needs are properly met, our policies and programs are effective, and we are prompt in dealing with all issues involved," Rumsfeld added. Rumsfeld asked Chu to address how sexual assaults were reported within the military and whether "private channels" existed for victims to report attacks. U.S. military men and women have worked and lived in close quarters during the Iraq war. Women make up about 15 percent of the overall military and about 10 percent of the 110,000 U.S. troops now in Iraq. Infantry, armor, artillery and special forces units generally exclude women.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 17:00:14 (MST)

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First of all, welcome to the 1st " King Cobra", by the time i got there it was " Cobra Regent" Cpt. Tom Roy. Must have been different in those days, anyway i have been on this site since 1997, please stay with us (WELCOME HOME !!!), Fred A & Fred S, Right on & I'm with you, wear the POW/MIA Patch on my Motor vest which you will probably see in Indy. Fred S, loved the airport security thing , if that is the way it is i may fly to Indy instead of riding. Kal B., I sent you an e-mail & am wondering if you got it, Did you? Respects, smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 16:07:53 (MST)

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AMEN..FRED S.........KEITH
Keith 72-73
USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 14:27:11 (MST)

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Outraged Fred A....Last night Fox News Brit Hume or what ever his "punk-ass" name is. He said that Vet`s Status should not be considered as a part of a person`s resume or job application...Of course he was making reference to presidental race, but that`s a pretty broad statement from the "fair and balanced" network. Now my contention is...and it not a "liberal thing"...There should a "full employment for vet`s" clause in our labor laws...."a living wage clause". A person that was willing to put their life on the line for this country....should be able to support their family in proper way.....Vets should have "top priority" on any job in this country. Education should have a "unlimited" time frame...you want to go back to school at 65 years old...you have the funds in place to do it. You`re a vet and you want start a business......tax breaks for the first 10 years...so that a good base could be established and you can afford to put the money back in your business and still have money to live on...I know that this all sounds "Utopian", but we are the richest and most powerful country in the world....And we can`t take care of the the people who made this country great. Want to hear something "real liberal"....we as Vet`s should have protected minority rights......someone look at us wrong or say something wrong to us.......you got problems. No more of this "BS" of "you got to earn respect"....No Way..... we should demand respect!!!!Someone might say,"Because you`re a vet, that makes you better". Damn Right it does. And the last statement was not directed at our "social members of the 129th" for lack of a much better words. Maybe I sound crazy....maybe I need therapy....But "positive therapy" for me would be knowing my Vet friends and neighbors........ and well.....Brothers.......live a quality lifestyle and be secure in whatever they choose to do.......Fred Alvis...I feel better now.......I feel good......I feel good like James Brown.....But I don`t want to go to jail like him.....That`s another thing we need as Vets...Bail Bond Cards....get out of jail free. Whew!!!!I`m done
Fred Skaggs
USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 13:15:14 (MST)

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Donna Elliott (sister of MIA Jerry W. Elliot) sent the POW-MIA flag article to me and I fired off an email to him letting him know what I thought. I told him he should attend Rolling Thunder in DC this year and discover the real meaning of the flag. Told him to do more research before he writes about something he doesnt understand.
Mike Teutschman <mike.d.teutschman@boeing.com>
WA USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 12:00:41 (MST)

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Alvis: Thanks for the article about (Our POW/MIA Flag)!!! The guy must not be a Vietnam Vet or any Vet. Or he would know the meaning and feelings about the POW/MIA Flag. Everyone has their oppinion. Mine will be to display the POW/MIA as long as I am still living. I have a POW/MIA decal displayed on our entry door at the Autozone where I work at. And Wear a POW/MIA pin on my work shirt. Haven't never had anyone tell me not to wear or display the POW/MIA flag or decals. Yes! have them displayed on my rear glassof my Blazer. Hey Fred maybe the is ashamed because it went to Canada??? Alex
Alex
USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 08:51:13 (MST)

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If you are as OUTRAGED as I am by the following article which appeared in the Chicago Suntimes today, I would suggest an approriate note be sent to the writer of this Article. His e-mail address has been included. http://www.suntimes.com/index/steinberg.html Taken from the Chicago Sun Times 2/4/04 Written by: Neil Steinberg e-mail: nsteinberg@suntimes.com Opening Shot When can we get rid of those black POW/MIA flags that have been flying under the American flag for the past 30 years? Or are we stuck with them forever? I'm all for honoring vets, but the black flag has always had negative overtones, having originated in Rambo paranoia centered around the belief that American prisoners were still in Vietnam years after the war ended and the government was for some reason concealing the fact. The flags, in addition to honoring sacrifice, also suggest, unfairly, something shameful about the country, or at least they did. Now vets say they are just a generic tribute to all the prisoners of war and missing in action. Perhaps. But there are better ways to honor US service personnel. The flags will probably disappear one by one, as those who care passionately about them move on. A good thing, too. ~~~~~<>~~~~~
alvis
USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 06:54:10 (MST)

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Dick, "WELCOME HOME" there quite a few of us from AZ here, I am about 70 miles north of you. I'm in the Coolidge/Florence area. don't get to Tucson much but I do get there once in a while. we may have to meet for a lunch sometime. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Thursday, February 05, 2004 at 19:42:25 (MST)

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Welcome home Dick,Hope to meet you in Indy in June.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Thursday, February 05, 2004 at 17:39:11 (MST)

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Welcome Home Dick!! I along with Rainer Bauer,Glenn Pearmain,Max Whittingham and a host of others that are on the contact list. was there in 65-66. Flight: hopefully the letters Tom Pedersen and I sent out will help more of our Brothers find the 129th site. Also hopefully get them to the INDY reunion. Gently it would be great to have Diane at the reunion. Hopefully she will attend along with David Wells whom attended last year. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
USA - Thursday, February 05, 2004 at 13:08:22 (MST)

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Flight! I have just heard from Diane Strouther Moy! She sounded great! I've invited her to the re-union....wouldn't that be great!!!! Fred, thanks for the info on Dave Powers, hopefully he'll read the post today. Now go fix your car:>)))Always there-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, February 05, 2004 at 11:41:35 (MST)

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Welcome home Dick! Another Arizonian!!! You guys have some great VVA chapters. I Lived in Phoenix for 6-7 years. Loved it! Arizona State Alumni!!!! Let's see, Tucson...that would make you a "Wild Cat" fan. Oh well. And speaking of Arizona...where's our Rick England? Rick, the hostage situation is over, so you haven't an excuse for not posting. We're going to 7-8 inches of snow here today....Glad I'll be in Colorado over the weekend. Anyone live near Denver and Brighton? Let me know....you can join Joe and I at the inaugaration of the new President of the Lao-Hmong American Coalition(our allies during the "secret war" in Laos, who saved many American soldiers by killing and fighting thousands of NVA in Laos-keeping them out of Vietnam ). Seriously-please join us. Always there for our Veterans-Gently.
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Thursday, February 05, 2004 at 07:16:23 (MST)

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Dick Chapman,Welcome home brother,and glad you found the site.Lots of folks in here from your years.We are all still looking for more friends,this site is growing ,seems more of us are looking back towards something important that happened to us and to find our brothers.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 22:43:39 (MST)

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I just found this homepage for the 129th after getting an invitation to the 129th reunion in june. Did'nt know you existed. Have been in the VHPA several years. I was the original Cobra Platoon leader to have the "King Cobra" callsign. We started the other callsigns to follow titles in a king's court--interesting to see that the tradition survived. I would like to hear from other bite and strikers I served with in '66 and '67. I led the 1st platoon for several months, then took the guns. With over 30 years in the Army, that year was the most memorable, and with the best people.
Dick Chapman (King Cobra '66-'67) <springsengr@aol.com>
Tucson, AZ USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 21:22:06 (MST)

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Robbie, Ray, fantastic news guys. glad to hear it. hope everyone else is doing fine as well. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, az USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 21:02:58 (MST)

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Hello To All. Rob That is grate news, I to also have good news Kriss surgy went well lotsof pain but the knee wen in real well. thanks all. ray
Ray
MD USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 18:28:07 (MST)

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I talk to Cups a few months ago when he was in Detroit,and he was doing fine. Cups is not a bad sailor and was raised in South Florida. He knows those waters like the back of his hand. He also is a excellent builder of boats....he use to make a living refurbishing old boats and airplanes and we ALL know he can fly about anything. He was a Instructor Pilot in Nam. Cups worked his way thru college being a Volkswagen and Porche mechanic before the Army. As elusive as Cups is.....he might be in the states right now.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 16:43:21 (MST)

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That's great news Robbie! You now have a whole year to practise:>) Ray's daughter Kris is suppose to have knee surgery today-drop him/her a line if you have a minute. Anyone heard from Cups? Things are hot in Haiti again---and he's probably in the "front line." Bruce Crandall, "Snake," perfect! Thanks for the heads up Fred. Gale, why aren't you sharing any Mustang info? That black "thang" of yours sure looked like a Mustang. :>))) Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 13:45:29 (MST)

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Robbie, great news brother!! Flight, I don't chase Doctors & I hate taking meds,but, we are all at the age now to keep tabs on our health. I hope everyone considers having these "preventive maintenance" tests. Clear, Gale 67-68
Gale
USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 09:27:53 (MST)

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Hello flight. Just to let everyone know, the Doctor finally called me at 8:30 last night and told me that they didn't find anything bad in the biopsy's they took from my last procedure and that i have nothing to worry about, but would like me to have another colonoscopy in a year. So i can stop worrying for awhile. Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 08:39:40 (MST)

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Bruce Crandall, the Major Crandall from the "We Were Soldiers..." book and movie and recent MOH nominee, was voted into the Army Aviation Association Hall of Fame last month
alvis
USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 07:24:27 (MST)

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is it XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX or k_raatzie
sssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 21:22:46 (MST)

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The old "202" heads ( camel hump heads) can still be picked up for a 100 bucks.Course ,there are lots better heads out there now.Had a 67 ford pickup. 6 banger(300). got a hair one day and put a crane cam in it,head man headers with dual exhaust,and a offy 4 barrel manifold.couldnt find ,or afford, a 390cfm eldebrock carb,so I left the manifold off and ran the 1 barrel.Thing had really poor low end,but would scream at about 25oo rpm on.then...then,i tried putting a 4 barrel on it off my buddys 55 chevy with a 396 in it.( his car was down) .drove to work and tried to drive it home. made it 1/2 way.pulled into a auto zone,checked the oil....had about 7 quarts in a 5 quart oil pan,and only 5 quarts of that was oil.the rest was gas.scrubed my rings so bad,4 of the 6 cylanders ended up with broken rings.hmmm,some have to find out the hard way that bigger isnt always better.Damn mainfold has been sitting in my wood shop for a few years now,trucks long gone.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 20:11:49 (MST)

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Kim...I went out the first morning of our snow/ice storm last Monday...and the next door neighbor lady just wailing away with a butcher knife on her windsheild. I told her to "start the car" and let it warm up.....the ice Will melt.They say those new GTO`s coming out are fast and have a great engine, but they say the interior is made real shotty.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 17:20:35 (MST)

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Friend of mine had a 71 Mustang, 428 in it. We had to unbolt the motor mounts and lower the back of the engine to get the back plugs out!! At least, there was a little get up and go when the job was done! Pontiac made a pretty good engine starting in 89, that 3 litre mill runs strong for a long time. Good luck with it. The Vett is a 76, last year of the stingray. Some guy before me shoehorned a 78 interior into it, and it doesn't fit for shit. He? did the pace car color scheme on it, which looks good. I'm more of a classic street rod type....no imron, bondo if necessary, just clean the mill out, put in a mild cam, powerpac heads, some type of fuel dumping device, preferrably 600cfm or more, and run it!! I need to get side pipes on it, the stock exhaust is too quiet. The steering is very quick, I can't just sit back and cruise in it, the slightest little bump will launch it on a new course. Of course, with the roads up here, it's all frost heave city, till july! Winter time just seems to bring out the worst in automobiles, what better time to have to get covered with grease than zero of below??? I think that's the main reason I don't have snowmobiles any more. They're just another excuse to freeze while tinkering! BTW...that snowstorm in Columbus Georgia....I think I must have seen hundreds of broken windshields down there..people were pouring hot water on them to clear the ice off!!!!
Kim
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 15:37:41 (MST)

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Few weeks ago I ask the question about the Cobra Patch and a it`s connection to Carroll Shelby of the Cobra Mustang fame. Well my wife had taken a e-mail of mine and put it in my Fred`s Personal Folder on our computer and I didn`t find it until today. I would like to share this with the Flight. My friend and Brother-In-Arms Tom Shananhan aka Soothsayer sent this to me. Tom`s modesty and thoughtfulness has always made him one of my "personal" hero`s on this web-site.....and I have several "personal hero`s" on this web-site. So Tom, my friend, I`m sorry if I invade your privacy....But your too special of a person to go un-noticed................. Jan 30, 2004 12:32 AM..... Someone said, The Cobra on the 129th patch was approved by Mr. Shelby....I was told that by someone on the web-site....can`t remember who told me...... Fred Skaggs....... USA - Monday, January 26, 2004 at 17:25:17 (MST)......... Well, there I was at 29,000 feet, MIGs to the left of me, MIGs to the right of me, not a nickel in my pocket, not a Coke machine in sight. Wait, wrong story.......... I can tell you my part of the Cobra patch story. When I got to the 129th it was via a DEROS shuffle from the gun platoon of the 189th newly arrived in Pleiku. I was put into the gun platoon along with one other 189th gun driver over some objections from the guys already there. You remember, we get to pick our own gun pilots. Well, the DEROS shuffle overcame their objections and there we were. After a few days, I made a prediction one night that there would be snow during a mission to some high country LZ and by golly there was some snow so Sir Lawrence gave me my call sign, Soothsayer. But I digress. A few months and a lot of alcohol later, we were running out of Cobra patches. The guys who had the original supply and the source in whatever village they came from had left. So, we needed a resupply. Prior to eagerly and voluntarily joining the Army after dropping out of my first year of college to earn a buck to keep going to college and immediately getting classified 1A, I had worked for an outfit in LaVerne, California called Chrondek Electronics. At Chrondek, we built the timing lights, timers and the Christmas tree starting lights for most the the drag strips around the country. Gets you in with some pretty good company. So, I wrote back to the world, got the address of Shelby Cobra and put a plan in motion. By that time, I was the gun platoon instructor pilot and check ride guy. The crazy guy that did check rides and autorotations on the rice paddy just south and west of Lane and spent a lot of time in the free fire area in the valley to the west. I had a process in the free fire area that kept it safe. I would fly in high, drop red smoke in the area of a dead tree on a ridge line letting the bad guys know I was there (usually single ship) and just wanted to cook off a few rounds and rockets. I always trained the new guys by shooting at that same dead tree. On the occasion of the Cobra patch mission, we took two ships out. The hog and the frog. The hog carried 48 rockets, the frog carried 38 rockets and the M5 grenade launcher or pumpkin chunker on the nose. And a camera. We shot a lot of rockets that day. We took a lot of pictures that day. We had pictures of 2.75" rockets bursting forth from the tubes, streaking to the target, resulting in the inevitable victory over that dead tree. Sir Charles on the ground must of thought I had gone nuts that day. We dropped a lot of ordnance on that dead tree but we got GREAT pictures which when developed went to Carrol Shelby and Company along with the "last" ragged Cobra patch (it might of even had a bullet hole in it) and a plaintive letter about how we sure could use some help getting some more patches with a REAL Cobra on it with his kind permission. A big package came some time later with a whole lot of Cobra patches inside. Distribution was made, somebody found a hootch maid who knew somebody to embroider the call signs and there you go. That's how the Cobra patches happened on my tour. And I know because I wrote the letter and I shot up a big chunk of tax payer money to get the pictures. Regards, Tom aka Soothsayer
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 13:39:06 (MST)

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Fred...new house! Congrats! I wish you two(3) the best! We'll break it in during the re-union.
Gently
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 09:26:40 (MST)

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seems like I will be doing tyhe same thing Kim. was hoping for better weather,but no luck.Book says I have to jack up my engine a couple of inches to get to one starter bolt.What kinda crap is that? Its a 91 bonneville for gods sake. What kinda vette you got?I been thinking about getting me one. Susan and I signed on the new house yesterday,figures,it has a garage and my car is broke here. chuckle.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 08:56:57 (MST)

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Hey Alex, must be nice ........... take a month off work to keep your foot up and baby yourself then work a couple days and take another day off. LOL I tried to call you at work today and they said you were off. I didn't ask what schedule you were on tomorrow but I will try again. I can't seem to get away from there anymore I have a 50 hour schedule and that feels like forever by friday afternoon. I am wondering how smart I was to take the CS position. and yes CS DOES have more than one meaning LOL. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Monday, February 02, 2004 at 20:38:45 (MST)

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Yea Kim.....Bellicheck WAS run out of before he had a chance....But Art Modell knew he was gonna move the "old Browns" to Baltimore if he didn`t get a new stadium. Boy....the Jackson Family(from Gary,Indiana)....that whole family is freaky. But I really did like "Kid Rock", a Detroit boy, he`s wild and crazy...
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, February 02, 2004 at 17:09:34 (MST)

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Two Super Bowls in three years, and now there's a DYNASTY in BOSTON???? I haven't heard that kind of talk since the Celtic's were on top of the heap!!!! Now, if only the poor Red flops could just pull it off!! One thing I learned a long time ago, regardless of who wins, my job doesn't change a bit. Today, guys were all happy, jabbering away like they had some part in the game's outcome. If it had gone the other way, they'd all be crabbing about the bums, the lousy reffing, Bellicheck's stupid decisions....Fred, don't forget where he came from!!!! He just about got run out of Cleveland, as I recall! Alvis..hope the starter went ok. Just to commiserate, I got slack and didn't move my vet to the barn before the first storm hit, now I don't have a garage this winter. I ended up putting a starter in one of my trucks a couple weekends ago....temp in the -10 range, with a wind blowing up my back!!!! I'm getting old enough that things like that HURT!!!! We're in the middle of January thaw right now..too bad it's february......
Kim
USA - Monday, February 02, 2004 at 16:20:39 (MST)

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Former Michigan quarterback(Tom Brady) hits former Ohio State linebacker(Mike Vrabel) for the winning touchdown...well...the field goal won it. Great Pepsi commercial, the Jimi Hendrix at 11 years old.....
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 01, 2004 at 20:40:06 (MST)

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Hello To All Just saying hi Rob Hope you get good news on your test. On the 4Th Kris gose in for her knee surgy. i let you know How she dose. Now as for the game. I have to go with N,E I used to live in Lynn ,Mass well I hope All is well Take care all. Be safe see you all in Indy. A brother always Ray . Mark And Dee I wish You the Best.
Ray <stilwating@aol.com>
MD USA - Sunday, February 01, 2004 at 15:34:22 (MST)

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New England is favored by 7, still rooting for the panthers. No garage,anyone wanna come lay in the snow and change my starter while I watch the game? Didnt think so.Hey freddy, that part of the country was always "on the edge".Always stayed on my toes from an khe and up.Seemed to me,pure badguy country. SHADOW,welcometo the active.Hey,where you there after gabby lost his wings? what happened to him?.I left just as all that was comming down.Big void to an unanswered question.
alvis
USA - Sunday, February 01, 2004 at 10:51:03 (MST)

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Politics aside, every time I hear this song and listen to the words, it gives me chills:... Billy Joel:.... "Goodnight Saigon"..... We met as soul mates..... On Parris Island...... We left as inmates..... From an asylum....... And we were sharp..... As sharp as knives...... And we were so gung ho to lay down our lives...... We came in spastic....... Like tameless horses..... We left in plastic..... As numbered corpses..... And we learned fast..... To travel light...... Our arms were heavy but our bellies were tight..... We had no home front..... We had no soft soap...... The sent us Playboy...... They gave us Bob Hope.... We dug in deep...... And shot on sight..... And prayed to Jesus Christ with all of our might...... We had no cameras..... To shoot the landscapes...... We passed the hash pipe....... And played our Doors tapes..... And it was dark...... So dark at night...... And we held on to each other....... Like brother to brother...... We promised our mothers we'd write....... And we would all go down together....... Yes we would all go down together....... Remember Charlie....... Remember Baker........ They left their childhood...... On every acre..... And who was wrong?...... And who was right?........ It didn't matter in the thick of the fight........ We held the day....... In the palm....... Of our hand....... They ruled the night....... And the night....... Seemed to last as long as...... Six weeks...... On Parris Island...... We held the coastline....... They held the highlands....... And they were sharp....... As sharp as knives...... They heard the hum of our motors...... They counted the rotors....... And waited for us to arrive....... And we would all go down together....... We said we'd all go down together....... Yes we would all go down together.......
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, February 01, 2004 at 07:18:16 (MST)

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