Flight: Well Mark it was good talking to you. And Kim glad you made contact with Jeff. Glad to be of some help. That why I am here. Major Ronald H. Merritt Company Comander for the 129th 66-67. Glenn Pearmain,Rainer Bauer and I flew missions with him. It's would be nice to have him at one of our reunions. Was Glad that Mark posted his son-in-law's message. Well commo been slow lately. Of coarse we all are staying busy. The 129th is definely growing all the time. But, the other day at work, a vietnam brother came in the store. said he noticed the helicopter licence plate on my truck. He was with the 174th. After a few days of reseach I hooked him up with some of his unit after 30 years. While we are out to different functions lets keep our eyes open and find members for the VHCMA and sooner or later we will find 129th personnel. Thanks Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Monday, July 30, 2001 at 09:28:20 (MDT)
GOOD EVENIN' 129TH FAMILY..........AN UNUSUAL TIME WHEN I HAVE OFF TO SET HERE AND WRITE SOMETHING TO YOU AL. I HOPE THE SUMMER HAS BEEN A GREAT ONE FOR YOU! IT HAS BEEN FOR DEE AND I. THE BUSINESS IS DOING REALLY GOOD AND GROWING ALL THE TIME. WE HAVE GAINED THE REP AS A PLACE OF INFORMATION ABOUT VIET NAM AND MILATARY TRIVIA OF ALL KINDS. DURING THE LUNCH HOUR WE WILL FEED UP TO 50 PEOPLE INSIDE SOME TIMES AND I MAKE DELIVERIES ALL AROUND TOWN ALSO. WE HAVE GAINED A GOOD REP WITH THE ELDERLY AS A PLACE THAT CAN DELIVER A GOOD HOT MEAL TO THE SHUT INS. ALL THE LIL' OLE LADIES LOVE ME ;-)...AND I LOVE TO CHARM THEM. SOMETIMES ALL THEY REALLY WANT IS SONEONE TO SET FOR A SPELL AND LISTEN TO THEM.ALEX!!!! IT LOOKS AS IF THE SS#'S PROGRAM IS WORKING GREAT. THANKS FOR SETTING IT UP AND OFFERING IT TO 129TH........YOU GUYS AND GALS ARE THEY BEST FRIENDS THAT I HAVE NOW, NEXT TO DEE AND THE GIRLS..............I PRAY THAT GOD GRANTS ME WITH PLENTFUL DAYS WITH YOU. AS YOU MAY HAVE READ. THE VHCMA GIG WAS SUPPOSE TO BE IN UTAH NEXT YEAR, BUT HAS NOW BEEN CAHNGED TO PHOENIX. I HATE TO FLY SO I THINK DEE AND I MAY BE WORKING ON A BIKE RIDE OUT TO THERE. I PERSONALLY HAVE A ANUT AND UNCLE AND SOME CUSIN IN THE AO, IT WILL BE A TWO FOLD TRIP FOR US.......KIM GREAT TO HEAR THAT YOU MADE A CONTACT TROUGH THE SS#'S........HEY FRED ELVIS......BY ALL MEANS MAN I WOULD LOVE TO PUT THOSE GUNS ON DISPLAY IN THE POP-A-TOP. IF ANYBODY EVER SENDS ME SOMETHING TO DISPLAY, REMEMBER THIS, IT IS STILL YOURS AND I WILL RETURN IT UPON REQUEST...........AND FRED....CAN YOUR WIFE COOK?????;-)))))))))....BRING HER A LONG TO MAN!!!!!!!....AS FAR AS NOT HANGIN' TO LONG IN LOUIVILLE, UNDERSTANDABLE BROTHER. I HAVE LEARNED THAT THROUGH THIS SIGHT, MANY A EMOTIONS CAN FLOW. I HAVE THEM MYSELF AND AM OVER WHELEMED SOMEDAYS WHEN I LOOK AT PIX OF YOU ALL, OR THINGS THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN DEE AND I, AND I FIND MYSELF IN TEARS. SOME SAD, BUT MOSTLY HAPPY ONES BECUASE YOU ALL ARE IN OUR LIVES NOW. WHAT A BLESSING THIS IS. SEE, EVEN RIGHT NOW THE WONDER OF IT ALL MAKES MY EYES WELL UP!!!!!!!!! BIG WEEKEND HERE IN TOWN. BIG TOWN PICNIC AND WE PLAN TO BE OVER RUN WITH BEER DRINKERS AND HELL RAINSERS IN THE NIGHTS TO COME....ONLY THING THEY WILL BE SHOOTING AT ME IS TENS AND TWENTYS......CA-CHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:-)..........WELP.........I BEST BE GOING......OH....ONE MORE THING.....I RECIEVED E-MAIL FROM A GENTLEMAN THAT SAYS HIS FATHER-IN-LAW, LTC (RET) RON MERRITT WAS THE CO OF THE 129TH 66/67. ANYBODY RECALL THIS MAN. THE SON-IN-LAW SAYS THAT THE LTC HAS TOLD HIM MANT STORIES ABOUT THE 1298TH. BUT THAT OUR HOME PAGE HAS FILLED IN A LOT OF DETAILS THAT HE LEFT OUT. AIN'T DAT SUMPIN'!!!!!!!!! CAPT.BEN WRIGHT, THE SON-IN-LAW, IS CURRENTLT AN OH-58D PILOT.............MAN OH, MAN OH, MAN.........THIS PAGE KEEPS GROWING AND GROWING.......I AM POST THE LETTER THE CAPT BEN SENT ME Mark, I am just writing to let you know how much I loved your website. I am the son-in-law of LTC(Ret.) Ron Merritt, who commanded the 129th in 1966 and 67. He is very proud of his service with the 129th and has told me several stories. However, he has left out a lot of detail that your web site provides. It is one of the best unit histories I have seen. His family does not know much of the history, so I am trying to document it for the family. LTC Merritt has a lot of photos that I am going to try to dig through and send to your site if you would like them. I will try to fish some more stories out of him, too. I am currently an OH-58D pilot, so I really enjoy hearing about this history. I did notice an error on one page. Benjamin Harrison's name was spelled wrong at the top of the 1967 history page. Thanks for all of your hard work on this web site! This history needs to stay alive for younger generations to remember. Respectfully, Captain Ben Wright 129TH........ALL OUR LOVIN, ALWAYS A BROTHER AND SISTER, MARK AND DEE
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Sunday, July 29, 2001 at 18:50:00 (MDT)
Just a quick post, to let everyone know that, thanks to Alex, ( and Mark, for that matter ) I spoke with Jeff Carpenter, Wednesday night. It's been thirty YEARS !!! Wes Griffith and I have been trying for quite some time to ctch up with him. It took Alex about two hours to respond to my e-mail, with his address. INCREDIBLE!!!!! I'll be passing along the information about this web site, to him. Hopefully, he'll check in.... Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Friday, July 27, 2001 at 14:54:55 (MDT)
Hi everyone I guess it's time I check in. I'm still new at all this and it takes a long time for me to write just a little not to mention my spelling sucks.It's a wonder I ever got on a flight crew. I'm glad you guys aren't picky who you hang out with. I was sure proud to have all of you in my fair city. Sorry I wasn't much (any) help. Here is a great big THANK YOU to those of you that help get these things together. I was glad to meet all of you. Well I'll sign off for now and I'll be in touch soon. Love you guys Billy Cockerel P.S. Please ntoe the new email address ironchop@msn.com
Billy Cockerel <IronChop@msn.com >
Louisville, Ky USA u bet - Saturday, July 21, 2001 at 21:05:58 (MDT)
flight: Ok! I up and running with the social numbers. If possible please send copies of orders so we can file them. And my address is 4793 northfield Circle, Memphis Tn. 38128 I turned in about 50 socials today. And will find out next week the out come of how many had right socials on the orders. But, a few minutes ago I was able to pull up and save the program so I can do ours of the 129th and any others on the orders. Please send in these orders. We can let these guys know where here and looking for them. Thanks for your help. It's going to take all of us as a team to increase our 129th and the Vhcma. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
memphis, tn USA - Friday, July 20, 2001 at 14:25:32 (MDT)
Flight: Well due to certain problems that couldn't be resolved. The 2002 reunion will be in Rick England's backyard!! Rick will be supplying all the fun and drink. Just kidding Rick. 98% Phoenix. All detail are not final. Charlie Rains is keeping us informed. He is still trying to get a comfirmation on everything. I will pass it along as soon as it becomes final. I am finding out first hand all it takes to get these reunions of the ground. By the way my email is afernwal@midsouth.rr.com Thanks Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
USA - Friday, July 20, 2001 at 08:44:38 (MDT)
Cups...I can handle a few of them, up this way. I'm not too sure how many of us there are in the north east, but...what the heck. By the way, when griff said that your six was clear, were your pants up, or down?HAW HAW HAW Found a set of orders for flight status, six names for the 129th. I'll send them along to you, Alex, if you can use them, Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 19:38:32 (MDT)
Hey Flight the 2002 reunion has been changed to phoenix next year. Check out the vhcma site. Cups I live in the southwest what do you want me to do?
Rick England <bd431@mindsspring.com>
Wittmann, Az USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 16:41:18 (MDT)
Heads Up Flight!!!!!!....I am a little beside myself. Nothing ever gets done quick in this country. I just had FOURTY TWO DOZEN T-Shirts, emblazoned with our unit patch IN COLOR on the front, delivered to my office. I didn't expect them for at least a month. I guess my friends were impressed with the website and the idea of what I want do do with the shirts (THANK YOU JOHN V. HANDAL!). Now I need addresses to ship them to. Kim, what about you taking the Northeast? I need someone in the Southwest. My office is small! Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 14:37:23 (MDT)
Good day Flight, Ladies and the Guy's, wish I could have been there. I am a little busy right now. Take care. Uncle Slick' 698-693, 71-72.
michael barrett <michael_barrett@icpphil.navy.mil>
Phila., Pa. USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 10:57:17 (MDT)
Alex F: my messages keep coming back also....what is your address? Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 07:38:35 (MDT)
Alex, thanks for getting back to me so fast with your email address. The orders are on their way to you. My daughter and grand kids are doing fine as i hope you and Liz are. Hope we find some more Brothers with the Soc. Sec. numbers i sent.
Robbie <hobbes@kodak.com>
Rochester, ny USA - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 11:11:23 (MDT)
Alex Fernwalt. I am trying to send you some orders that i have with other social numbers on it and have tried two different email addresses and both came back to me as invalid recepient. I have tried alfern@bellsouth.net and afernwal@midsouth.com Do you now have another email address i should be sending this to? Maybe i will try to send them on to Charlie Rains and see what happens. Hello out there all you Hiss and Pissers. Hope you are all having a great summer.
Robbie <hobbes@kodak.com>
Rochester, ny USA - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 07:24:44 (MDT)
Hi all. Smitty,when Mark pulled that chicken plate out ,at the cracker barrel,I had to do a mental stepback and regroup.Hell,i proabaly moved that thing out of my way when playing spades and drinking beer in your room.To be honest,it was a shock i wasnt prepared forThat simple vest brought forth a flood of times past.Knowing it was yoursbrought it home to me.Kinda glad all were leaving at that moment.Damn,i didnt sign it either.nor was my picture taken. Just as well,.Mark,i have a ak- 47(chinese) and a sks (russan).if you would like to hang them in the bar for awhile,let me know and i will bring them and the old lady over.(can i leave her)We'll have lunch.Sorry about not staying long in Lville,I got very nervous and had to leave.To much ,to fast.Was a very long,thought filled drive home.it was great meeting you guys at the cracker barrel( finaly got the day right )Whoever had the yearbook from 71,thank you,saw some old friends.
fred alvis <fredfrostyjr@aol.com>
indy, in USA - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 01:29:17 (MDT)
Flight: Well good to see the commo. The answer To Matt's question about the pilot's and the VHCMA together. Personally I thought everyone on the chopper was a crew member. We flew together and died together when that time came. But, stop and think!! You have the VIETNAM HELICOPTER CREW MEMBERS ASSOCIATION. It does say crewchief or gunner, but crew member.Plus there are associate memberships for those whom never flew. But, helped us maintained our choppers in various means, maintence for example. These associate members get the same as you or me except to vote in a election of offiers of the VHCMA. The pilots have 4th of July week. We changed our to the 3rd week of June because of the 4th. Most people either have to work or having family reunions or get togethers. Personally if it was on the 4th I couldn't attend now being in retail were open regular working hours. Plus we firemen,law enforcement personnel these folks work on the 4th. I would like to see all of us together as a whole. But, Kal hit it on the head. In Louisville we were together as a unit. We had our own location to meet. This a plus. You don't have call hotels or try to chase down people because everyone is centrally located. Matt the Vhcma welcomes the pilot's with open arms. I think the pilot's whom attend the Vhcma reunions come because they want to. In planning these reunions a lot of hard work begins. Location,hotels size, what's in the area for a family to do. And Charlie Rains tries to have something for all. Of coarse cost. Some guys are on fixed incomes. Some famlies only one person working, alot to consider in doing these reunions. I appreciate and am honored that the men of the Vhcma wanted me as their VP. and to move into Pes. next year. Some I wasn't expecting. But,I there for all. And I have my responsibilty to the 129th. All I can say is maybe one day Pilots,crewchiefs,gunners will put differences aside an all crew members will reunite. But until then as I said we welcome pilots with open arms they our Brothers. I hope I didn't piss no one off. I just wanted everyone to know the facts. We human and everyone has their feeling about the pilot's and the Vhcma not having reunions together. Remember as I also did. We were a crew!! each of us had a job to do, to get the chopper off the ground. Remember the GIB that we counted on also. We were teams,great ones at that. The Reunion was in Philly in 94. take care Brothers. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Monday, July 16, 2001 at 08:13:21 (MDT)
Just reading the commo about the reunion, and felt like adding my two cents worth. It's taken a while to get to this, as I'm not to sure what I expected it to be. Off the top, it was great to meet Cups and Flame. As much as I like to think I remember of my time there, it pales in comparison with Cups' powers of recall! It was amazing to find that the unit brought back the old huey gunships equipped with anti tank rockets! I remember being thoroughly disgusted with the Army for taking them away in the first place. there's a bit of vindication in that knowledge! Wes, it was great to see you again. Dave Powers, he gets uglier every time I see him! I'm sorry that duty called, so soon after getting there. Don, it would have been nice to have been able to sit around and be sociable, instead of running out the door, two minutes after you and your brother came in. Gently, I'm sorry I didn't get to meet you this time. Maybe in Salt Lake City? Cups...you were right on.......Kim
Kimn La Voie
Livermore , Me USA - Sunday, July 15, 2001 at 20:30:48 (MDT)
I haven't been here for a while. Now that the reunion is over and new people are joining, I will ask the same question I have asked before. Does anyone remember Michael H. Shanley? He flew with the 129th in 68-69. Incedent date is 12/2/69. I have read the incident report but I want to know more about Michael. I have worn his bracelet for 14 years and will wear it for the rest of my life if I need to. Any iformation would be most helpful. Thanks in advance for any help. WELCOME HOME. Katharine
Katharine Marsee <fricabeunme@msn.com>
Elizabethtown, ky USA - Sunday, July 15, 2001 at 17:13:07 (MDT)
Hi all! Enjoying my Sunday morning read of the 129th. Cups--I'm not in the best locale of the country but would be more than happy to help with the shirts. I'm in the post office every day anyway. I have a cool postmisstress that would even package them for me. She is about 30 years old and helps serve at Memorial Day with the Legion Aux. Don't find that in young people much any more. Anyway , be glad to help. All take care!
Darwin Schmiedt--Flame <schmitty@santel.net>
woonsocket, SD USA - Sunday, July 15, 2001 at 10:31:48 (MDT)
GOODEVENIN' 129TH FAMILY. FINALLY GOT A NIGHT OFF FROM THE POP-A-TOP. OUR DAUGHTER AND SON-IN-LAW TOOK OVER TONIGHT. DEE AND I ALWAYS TRY AND PLAN SOMETHING ON A NIGHT WE HAVE OFF BUT WE BOTH ARE SO DAMN DEAD TIERD THAT WE CRASH EARLY. THE BIZZ IS REALLY DOING GREAT. MOST EVERYDAY I GET TO SHARE THE 129TH AND LARRY WITH PEOPLE THAT ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THE THEAM OF THE BAR. ALSO I USUALLY HAVE SOMEBODY COME IN ONCE A WEEK AND DROP OFF A NEW UNIT PATCH OF SOME SORT. I AM PROUD TO OWN A PLACE THAT IS IN HONOR OF THE VETS LIKE YOU GUYS. LAST WEEK,MY OLE' MAN GAVE ME A WORLD WARII JAP FLAG THAT HE GOT WHILE HE WAS ON OKINAWA DURING THE INVASION THERE IN 45. THE STORY BEHIND THAT IS, HIS UNIT WAS STANDING ON TOP A HILL OVER THERE, AND THE TROOPS WERE BRINGING EQUIPMENT ON SHORE AFTER THAT HAVE SPEARHEADED UP THE BEACH. A KAMAKAZE PLANE CAME BY JUST 15 FT ABOVE HIS HEAD, HEADED FOR THE BAY TO DOWN SOME OF THE EQUIPMENT COMING ASHORE. AS THE PLANE PASSED THE OLE' MAN, THE PILOT THREW THE FLAG OUT THE WINDOW AND THE OLE' MAN CAUGHT IT. IT HAS LOTS OF JAP WRITING ON IT AND I HAVE A FRIEND THAT TEACHES THAT TALK. SHE IS GOING TO TELL ME WHAT IT SAYS................... KAL AND MATT.....YEAH GUYS, IT IS A SHAME THAT THE VHPA ASSO. AND THE VHCMA ASSO. CAN NOT GET IT TOGETHER...........FROM THE FRONT SEAT TO THE BACK, FROM THE AIR TO THE GROUND, ALL OF YOU WERE IN THE SAME BS......MAYBE SOMEDAY IT WILL HAPPEN. KAL, AND MATT AND EVERYBODY ELSE THAT HAS EXPRESSED THEIR FEELINGS ABOUT THE GIG IN LOUIVILLE........IT WARMS MY HEART TO KNOW ALL OF YOU AND TO THINK THAT I HAVE PLAYED A SMALL PART IN SO MANY EMOTIONS. I PRAY THAT ALL YOUR FEELINGS ARE POSSITIVE ONES. MINE ARE!!!!!!!!!!!!..........JIM W. (SMITTY)YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...:-))))))))))....I WAS HONORED TO HAVE WORN THE CHICKEN PLATE ALL THE WAY DOWN TO, AND BACK FROM LOUVILLE!!!!!!!!!...AND I AM PRETTY SURE ALL BUT 2 HAD THE CHANCE TO SIGN IT. IT HAS BEEN RETURNED TO IT'S PLACE OF HONOR HIGH ABOVE ONE OF OUR SPEAKERS IN THE POP-A-TOP.I WAS GOING TO WEAR THE WHOLE THING DOWN THERE, BUT THE DAY WE TOOK OFF. ROBBIE AND PETE TOOK THE BACK OUT OF IT AND TOLD ME TO JUST WEAR THE FRONT LIKE YOU GUYS. I WOULD OF SAT ON THE REAR OF IT LIKE YOU GUYS USED TO, BUT I AM AFRAID THAT THAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN A LIL' UNCOMFORTABLE ON THE HOG;-)))))..............LAST COUNT IN THE ROSTER OF THE 129TH WE HAVE 178 NAMES. I RECIEVED A FEW MORE THIS WEEK AND WILL ADD THEM SOON................GALE BEARD!!!!....DID YOU SEE THAT RON DEBATES HAS CHECKED IN????...I BELEIVE YOU GUYS WERE TOGETHER OVER THERE...........AND I SEE THAT TIMOTHY STEM JUST CHECKED IN ALSO. ALEX???.LOOKS LIKE HIS TIME FRAME IS THE SAME AS YOURS....WELCOME HOME TIM AND RON!!!!!AND BACK TO THE 129TH.........MATT C.......YES!!!...I WILL TAKE A PHOTO OF THE GLASS HONOR THAT YOU AND CUPS GAVE TO DEE AND I AND PUT IT ON THE PAGE.............AGAIN.......WHAT A SURPRISE, HONOR, AND SUCH A WONDERFUL THING FOR YOU ALL TO DO.......DEE AND I CHARRISH IT AND IT ALSO HAS A PLACE OF HONOR IN THE POP-A-TOP. I SHOW IT TO EVERYBODY...........MATTER OF FACT, WHEN I DIE, I JUST MIGHT GET BURIED WITH THAT THING;-)))))))))))))))))......I WANNA SHOW IT TO LARRY WHEN I SEE HIM AGAIN...........SPEAKING OF LARRY, I HAVE A LIL' STORY ABOUT HIM AND THEN I WILL SHUT UP;-)))))..............I HAD A DREAM ABOUT LARRY 4 NIGHTS AGO. 2ND DREAM I HAVE EVER HAD OF HIM SINCE HE WENT DOWN WHERE I ACTUALLY GOT TO SEE HIS FACE AND TALK TO HIM. JUST AS THE 1ST ONE ABOUT 7 YEARS AGO, THE NEXT MORNING I WOKE UP WITH SUCH A WONDERFUL FEELING INSIDE. IT WAS GOOD TO SEE HIM AGAIN. IN THIS DREAM, I WAS IN A LARGE ROOM, SORTA LOOKED LIKE A BIG HOTEL. A LADY CAME UP TO ME AND SAID, " SO I HEAR YOU HAVE COME TO SEE LARRY".......SHE WALKED ME DOWN A VERY WIDE SET OF ROUNDED STAIRS.....AND ON A TABLE , OR SOMETHING THAT LOOKED LIKE A MANTLE, THERE WAS A BOX. IT WAS NOT A CASKET, JUST LOOKED LIKE A SMALL BOX. SURE ENOUGH THERE WAS A BURNED UP BODY IN THE BOX AND SOME SORT OF ANIMAL LAYING ON THE BODY'S CHEST. I STARED FOR AWHILE. IT WAS LARRY FER SURE. I REALLY DIDNT WANT TO SEE HIM THAT WAY, BUT HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE MAN THAT PICKED LARRY UP AND PUT HIM IN HIS BODY BAG JUST WHAT HE DID LOOK LIKE THAT MORNING. I AM SURE THAT IS WHERE THAT IMAGE CAME FROM. ANYWAYS............ALL OF A SUDDEN......LARRY'S CHEEK STARED TO TWITCH......AND THE ANIMAL MOVED........NEXT THING I KNOW THE ANIMAL WAS GONE AND LARRY WAS STANDING IN FRONT OF ME. HE WAS NOT BURNED UP ANY MORE BUT HE STILL HAD HIS "OD" FLIGHT SUIT ON AND IT WAS SORTA TORN UP...........NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.....AND SOME OF YOU HAVE HEARD ME SAY THIS BEFORE ABOUT YOU GUYS.......BUT, AS LARRY WAS STANDING IN FRONT OF ME, I HAD TO RAISE MY HEAD AS HIGH AS I COULD TO SEE HIS SMILING FACE.....HE WAS 10 FEET TALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!......AND OH THAT SMILE:-))))))))))))))))))))))))))........AND THAT SHITTY LIL' GRIN HE HAS:-)WHAT A WONDERFUL FEELING IT WAS TO SEE HIM AGAIN................WE SHOT THE SHIT FOR A SPELL AND THEN I ASK LARRY IF I COULD COME AND SEE HIM AGAIN. HE TOLD ME, "NO MARK, YOU CAN ONLY COME HERE ONCE"......I HOPE HE JUST MEANT IN THAT DREAM!!!!!!!!!!......THEN LARRY LOOKED AT ME AND SAID, " MARK, I WANT YOU TO DO ME A FAVOR"........OF COURSE I SAID SURE LARRY, ANYTHING THAT YOU WANT BROTHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.....AND HE TOLD ME THIS........ ..." MARK, I ALL WAYS WANT YOU TO TOUCH EVERYTHING TWICE"...AND THE DREAM WAS OVER. ...................................................................................................................................................................................... GOD BLESS YOU, THANKS FOR BEING OUT THERE FOR ME. LITTLE DID I KNOW THAT I NEEDED ALL OF YOU............THE "257" TURNING INBOUND TO THE BEACON, AND CLIMBING TO 6,000. LETS COME HOME LARRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ALWAYS A BROTHER AND SISTER, MARK AND DEE
MARK JACKSON <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 22:11:26 (MDT)
Hi Flight, I too attended, or infiltrated the pilots reunion in Denver. Being one of the GIBs I was restricted as to where I could go. I agree with Kal the reunion in Louisville was far better. One of my main reasons for attending was to promote the idea with all that would lisen, is that the time has come to hold these reunions togeather (do you copy Mr. V.P.) I understand that next years sights are all ready set. But please, please, please can we get our acts together from that point on. A lot of the piolts I talked with all said the same thing. And that was we flew as a team and why the two organizations can't get there acts togeather is a real shame. I was told that there had been one reunion a couple of years back that was held togeather, but no one I talked to could understand why it had stopped. Cups, I would be happy to be a distribution point in this local. Any luck putting the !st Avn. Brgd. on the sholder (as we talked about)?????? At any rate I still had the time of my life meeting all my brothers and sister this year and look forward to many more, as Kal said the emotion level at Louisville was intense where as the level in Denver was subduded by compairison. Mark my brother is there any chance you can add a picture of the Plaque to those from the reunion. I had told a few about the presintation and because they could not attend they had hoped to seee what I was talking about. Tails clear left Matt Casey Buldoug 174
Matthew Casey <mcasey1947@cs.com>
Aurora, CO USA - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 15:44:44 (MDT)
I was in the 129th AHC in 1965/1966..tail number 8686 (686) I have been trying to find out what ever happened to my gunship when I left in Sept 66.If any body was with me during that time please contact.Trying to locate my gunner....Berry Blake from OK....May Cpt Wetzle rest in peace , he was my A/C for a few months
Timothy J.Stem <cobra686@omniglobal.net>
Ingram, Tx USA - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 13:51:58 (MDT)
Hello Flight... Having just returned from the VHPA reunion in Denver I must say that, as I thought, it didn't hold a candle to our reunion in Louisville.. I felt that it was well planned and had lots of activities that kept you busy but, not being part of a group, left you more "on your own". I did see a couple of my flight school classmates but they were already "part of a group" and tied up. So, summing it all up, it was fun but the commarodery(sp) that we as a group had in Louisville made it by far the better of the two reunions. If I had to pick of the two, it goes without a doubt that the VHCMA reunion gets my vote. It was great seeing all of you that attended Louisville and seeing your posts on the subject here. Hope to see you all soon... C U L8r... Kal
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu@email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 11:20:22 (MDT)
Mark, Alex, Flight.....Alex, I told you in Coldwater I would check into doing new shirts. They should be in production Monday. They will be white with the patch in color on the front. I tried to get the calling card on the back but they said all the small print would be too much so they told me they are putting the cobra logo and "You Call.." on the back. They will be in LG and XLG. Twenty one dozen of each. I haven't seen the artwork but this is a friend and he told me to trust him. Now, here is the challenge. I'm paying for the shirts. What I want to do is distribute them to a few people in different parts of the country, Northwest, Northeast, Southeast etc. I will offer the shirts free to these people. Anyone one wanting one contacts the person closest to them. All I would ask is the person receiving pay the shipping to them and if they would like a small donation for the upkeep of this site. I'm working on the logistics of getting them to the states and without having to pay duties. I'll take care of this end. I need a little help from a few on that end. If you care to and can help either post here or send me a note. Okay got to run. Have a great weekend! Casey, are we clear left? Flame, what about overhead? Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 07:50:06 (MDT)
Hi to all, sounds like a wonderful reunion. Saw the pictures & the "sandwich", the Roast beef is missing .Have to call this one Double decker turkey sandwich or something. For those who have not seen the original Roast beef that festus has, probably barry Swanson, alton Page, & a few others understand that. I'm still having a lot of family illness problems but you all have yours as well. My main reason for this is: Mark, did you wear the plate, was it hot? Did you get it signed? Hope so. Fred Alvis, you may have been the closest to me beside a couple pilots "Animal" & Bill Shillito, Glad you made it. I had to go see my nephew who broke his back in Kalispell (NW Montana) & I rode the Harley up there & was able to stop at Big Timber & see Ron & Jamie Debates. He had some cool pictures & we talked. He was hit & he went home maybe a week or 2 before I got there. He has an Honest to God 2nd plt patch & some others that brought back memories. He also had a 1971 129 patch that showed the black wolf looking dog like the one on the page was. That is the one I remember wearing. They are wonderful people,treated me great & it was great to meet another from the 129th. That is 5 for me. He is active in the American Legion & we can count ourselves Proud to say "WELCOME HOME" to Ron Debates & his 6 Jamie. Yours; Smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@fiberpipe.net>
Sheridan, Wy USA - Friday, July 13, 2001 at 17:54:54 (MDT)
My new addy will be gentlyj@hotmail.com....it's free. Gently :))
GentlyJ
USA - Thursday, July 12, 2001 at 15:25:18 (MDT)
Flight: Well to the 67-68 Lane Brothers!!!! The search is over for another brother from Lane. Found Daniel (Dan) Raslowsky. Dan and I pulled alot of guard duty at lane together. What a year for me to remember. Just seeing how the 129th family is finding each other. Want to thank Danielle Raslowsky for responding to my email search for her Dad. All I had was his name and that he was from NJ. So I did a email to everyone hopine to find him or family member. I see my COMAND SARGENT MAJOR ( LIZ ) has hit the log. Her encouragement haskept me pushing to find ways of locating our Brothers!! Thanks Liz. There was a old saying I once Heard. ( I'm as happy as a sissy in boy's town ) Glenn Pearmain,Rainer Bauer,Truman Mills,Kal Bergstom,Lee Woods,SGT.Bill Ellish,Daniel Raslowsy. And All the rest of you. What a family. 35 years ago I never would have thought of seeing or hearing from any one. Well flight Take care. Just wanted to share my latest find from the 129th. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Wednesday, July 11, 2001 at 08:03:02 (MDT)
don miller & les sprague , thank you very much guys .i finally remembered what outfit was at an khe , posted a query to the lrrp/4th inf div and received a reply from them . nailed date dowm to 11/16/69 ....... les was right !!!!!!!!!!!!!! thank you again bill hewit
bill hewit <wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Wednesday, July 11, 2001 at 00:52:54 (MDT)
Thanks Liz. It was real nice finally meeting you and Alex. Debbie and I sure had a great time and have been enjoying the pics on the site. BY THE WAY! Has everyone noticed the tight formation of those BUTTS? Ha! Later, Gale
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 07:01:10 (MDT)
Hello 129th family. I decided to take just a few minutes and write you all. I want to thank each and every one of you for being there this year and last year. It has meant so much to Alex to have you guys by his side at the reunions. He went so long looking for you and each reunion it would just be him for the 129th. When he first saw Glenn in Dallas, TX, he was 18 again. All the memories that were suppressed for so many years and emotions came pouring out. I don't know how to thank you all for being there for him and being so supportive. I hold each of you close in my heart and prayers always. Thanks again. Take care and I love you all. Liz
Liz Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Monday, July 09, 2001 at 18:15:59 (MDT)
I'm in the mood for love, Lift up the covers and show me. Funny but when you're near me... Funny but? Who's got a funny but?! All four 129er's in the photo gallery!!!!! Bless you all! Gently(Judith)
GentlyJ
USA - Monday, July 09, 2001 at 06:59:29 (MDT)
HEY FAMILY.........THE PHOTOS OF LZ LOUIEVILLE 2001 ARE NOW UP IN THE GALLERY SECTION, RIGHT SIDE AT THE BOTTOM............CHECK EM OUT.......MAN WAS THE EVER A GREAT TIME!!!;-)))..TALK TO YA LATER......ALWAYS A BROTHER, MARK
MARK JACKSON
USA - Sunday, July 08, 2001 at 10:05:20 (MDT)
Frenchie maybe next year. Good to hear from you. was at Bob H. housebefore the reunion with shakey there doing fine Bob is getting ready for a trip to vietnam. When you going to retire? Got a message from Bill Whalen saying he might make the reunion but, no show again maybe next year. Looking forward to seeing as many 129th there as possible. Be careful out there.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, Az USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 15:26:27 (MDT)
Hi Flight, I am so sorry that I couldn’t make it this year. Duty called and I had to go to Savannah Ga, for summer camp for two weeks. I was there in spirit, and in heart. Congratulations to Alex on VP. Rick good to read you on line. Anyone hear from BOB? H. Hope everyone has dug them self’s out from the bunker on the 4th. Amateurs with explosives is a scary thing. Reminds me when I tried to use det cord for speaker wire. Good thing it didn’t have a wire inside... shiny side up Frenchie
Bill French <frenchie-745@mindspring.com>
Marietta , Ga USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 11:46:37 (MDT)
It has taken a couple of weeks to sort out my feelings after the great time I experienced in Louisville at the 129th reunion. I can't express myself well enough to tell all my brothers of the 129th how happy I was to share the tears and the laughs we all had. From the bottom of my heart, thank you Mark and Dee. I can't remember a time in my life where I have walked into a room with a group of people I didn't know and be immediately included into the group. What a great feeling to see Ron Paye after 30 years. When Ron greeted me by hugging me he quietly whispered into my ear,"WELCOME HOME BROTHER",I can tell all of you, that comment touched my heart and will always be remembered. For all of you who read the comments at this website but are concerned about getting to the 129th reunion for whatever reason, may I encourage you to make plans to come to the gathering in Salt Lake City. I guarentee you will not regret the experience. When I asked my son who is 20 years old of his impressions of the people he met he could only say what a great bunch of good people. I agree. Keep the rotor in the green, Bulldog 17.
Tom Pedersen <safetyshark@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, Ga USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 09:49:15 (MDT)
Hey Flight I hope everybodys return trip home from Louisville went ok. Also your Fourth was a plesant one.I finaly made it back home after a stay in Nashville,my return trip was uneventfull unlike my trip there. My brother and I almost turned around after having car trouble in Georgia.I'm glad we didn't although it made us arrive a day late and I almost missed seeing Kim Lavoie,Doc Griffth It was great seeing you after 30yrs I was totally surprised.It was good to see the Brothers from last year,Alex,his wife Liz,Mark and his wife Dee, Glenn, Rick,Sam and his wife Sharon,Pete Rhome and his wife TJ, Barry Winkler qhat a guy.RobbieHope I didn't leave anyone out from lat year although I didn't meet all that came last year. I was very pleased to meet the first timers,Mat,Robbie, ( I know you was there last year but you left before I arrived ) Barry Swanson, Rainer,Bill Cockerel,Tom,Gail,Bauer,Smiley,Bill Ellish,Darwin and Lee Wood which I'm soory I didn't get to talk to After tapping him in the back thinking he was Rick English.I was exspeci.aly pleased to see the Pilots that came Ron Payne, Cups, and Kal.I aways felt flight crews were a team and there presents confirms that fact to me.I 'm honored to have meet all of you and would fly with all of you.And fINALY JUDTH AND Joe.I hope you all can make many more they get easier.You get to match faces with name of the ones that you see in the log and it becomes special.May God bless you all.
Don McCort <cobra632ce@hotmail.com>
FL USA - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 23:45:02 (MDT)
Hey Flight I hope everybodys return trip home from Louisville went ok. Also your Fourth was a plesant one.I finaly made it back home after a stay in Nashville,my return trip was uneventfull unlike my trip there. My brother and I almost turned around after having car trouble in Georgia.I'm glad we didn't although it made us arrive a day late and I almost missed seeing Kim Lavoie,Doc Griffth It was great seeing you after 30yrs I was totatly surprised.It was good to see the Brothers from last year,Alex,his wife Liz,Mark and his wife Dee, Glenn, Rick,Sam and his wife Sharon,Pete Rhome and his wife TJ, Barry Winkler qhat a guy.RobbieHope I didn't leave anyone out from lat year although I didn't meet all that came last year. I was very pleased to meet the first timers,Mat,Robbie, ( I know you was there last year but you left before I arrived ) Barry Swanson, Rainer,Bill Cockerel,Tom,Gail,Bauer,Smiley,Bill Ellish,Darwin and Lee Wood which I'm soory I didn't get to talk to After tapping him in the back thinking he was Rick English.I was exspeci.aly pleased to see the Pilots that came Ron Payne, Cups, and Kal.I aways felt flight crews were a team and there presents confirms that fact to me.I 'm honored to have meet all of you and would fly with all of you.And fINALY JUDTH AND Joe.I hope you all can make many more they get easier.You get to match faces with name of the ones that you see in the log and it becomes special.May God bless you all.
Don McCort <cobra632ce@hotmail.com>
FL USA - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 23:43:34 (MDT)
Hey Flight I hope everybodys return trip home from Louisville went ok. Also your Fourth was a plesant one.I finaly made it back home after a stay in Nashville,my return trip was uneventfull unlike my trip there. My brother and I almost trun around after having car trouble in Georgia.I'm glad we didn't although it made us arrive a day late and I almost missed seeing Kim Lavoie,Doc Griffth It was great seeing you after 30yrs I was totatly surprised.It was good to see the Brothers from last year,Alex,his wife Liz,Mark and his wife Dee, Glenn, Rick,Sam and his wife Sharon,Pete Rhome and his wife TJ, Barry Winkler qhat a guy.RobbieHope I didn't leave anyone out from lat year although I didn't meet all that came last year. I was very pleased to meet the first timers,Mat,Robbie, ( I know you was there last year but you left before I arrived ) Barry Swanson, Rainer,Bill Cockerel,Tom,Gail,Bauer,Smiley,Bill Ellish,Darwin and Lee Wood which I'm soory I didn't get to talk to After tapping him in the back thinking he was Rick English.I was exspeci.aly pleased to see the Pilots that came Ron Payne, Cups, and Kal.I aways felt flight crews were a team and there presents confirms that fact to me.I 'm honored to have meet all of you and would fly with all of you.And fINALY JUDTH AND Joe.I hope you all can make many more they get easier.You get to match faces with name of the ones that you see in the log and it becomes special.May God bless you all.
Don McCort <cobra632ce@hotmail.com>
FL USA - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 23:41:07 (MDT)
JUST A QUICK NOTE. SENT THE PHOTOS OF THE 129TH GIG IN LOUISVILLE THIS MORNING TO THE WEBMASTER. THEY SHOULD BE ON THE PAGE IN A FEW DAYS. LOOK FOR THEM.....GOD BLESS YA ALL,ALWAYS A BROTHER, MARK
Mark Jackson
USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 14:33:10 (MDT)
Good Morning Flight: Well hope everyone had a safe July4th. Enjoyed all the commo. And looking forward to Salt Lake City 2002. Too all the guys whom check out the page but, don't post. HEY!!!!! IF YOUR 129TH WE WANT YOU HERE WITH US. WERE LOOKING FOR YOU!!!! I don't care what your mos was.But,in vietnam we were together for a year or more of our lives. There's a bond there. So when you check the log don't be afraid write something to let us know your out there. I posted my address on a previous post so send the copies of your orders with socials numbers on them so we can start tracking these guys down. Also would like to thank all of you for voting me in as your vice-president of the vhcma. I's a honor to serve you, was not expecting this. But, I hope I can encourage all of you to help find our 129th people and 40,000 plus whom served in the helicopter units. Whether your attending air shows or any function that our brother might attend. Thanks Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 08:52:20 (MDT)
Just wanted to thank everyone for a memorable time at the reunion. It was my first and my expectations were exceeded. The exchange of stories and experiances showed me how much I had forgotten and how much I remembered. The poetry was a highlite for me. It is a special person who can share their innermost feelings with others. They all brought home the stark realities of the war we shared. Some funny, some sad, and some lewd, but all reality. Seeing Cups after 30 years was beyond description. He gave me my AC checkride. He must have been in a generous mood that day. I have always told people that we didn't cultivate close relationships in Nam. When I left Nam there were no hugs or tears. I just wanted to be gone and damn glad I survived the ordeal. Our tearfull goodbye at the hotel (and the tears now) have convinced me that perhaps we had deeper friendships than we would like to admit to. It just took 30 years to figure it out. And to Mark and Dee a special thanks for your hospitality. Mark, Dee is a special person for it is difficult to find a mate who shares your enthusiasm especially for a cause such as yours. But I'm sure you already knew that. You both deserve our thanks. And finally, The mooning incident has to be mentioned. Cups of course was one of the exposees. And now I can say "I know that asshole" and really mean it. Every one have a fun a safe 4TH Flame
flame <schmitty@santel.net>
woonsocket, SD USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 06:10:05 (MDT)
Have a safe and happy 4th be careful out there. The temp here has been 113 and higher in some places.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, AZ USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 05:29:17 (MDT)
Wishing all of my friends a safe holiday. Try to march in a parade...it's great for healing and that wonderful sense of brotherhood. Many people clap for you Nam Vets now(they're not all like the woman Rick England ran into in the St. Louis Airport, thank God)! Joe and I will be in two parades...proudly. At the reunion I had a shirt embroidered with a helicopter on it. Above the heli is Tom Shaw's name with "129th" under his name. Under the heli is "KIA, 4/27/72" I'm wearing it in the parades. I'm marching for Tom.... and so many others. I march for you, my brothers. Gently
Gently <GentlyJ@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 09:15:56 (MDT)
Ron DeBates! Welcome home Bro. Glad to see that you found the site.I still had the info that I got from you a few years ago after I'd called you about the ad that you had in the Legion Mag. I passed that list on to Alex Fernwalt a few weeks ago. Maybe we can meet next year. Ron! Nice to see your commo. Will send you a pic of your bike as soon as Debbie gets her negs developed. She's a little "forgetful" ya know!! Gale Beard 67-68
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 08:32:06 (MDT)
Flight, The moving wall is in Indy this week. We put it up Sunday and will take it down this weekend. It is at Ft Harrison on the north east side of town. If you take 465 and exit on 56th st. east you will see the signs. Tomorrow there will be a parade at 10:00 and then something happening all day. At 3:00 The Carl Story band will play, great rock music. At 8:00 the Indy Symphony Band will play for an hour and then accompany the fireworks at 9:00. I will be there all day tomorrow and hope to see some of you. If you have never been to the wall and want some one to go with you, I would be honored to be with you. Just e-mail or call 317-856-6867 and we can set a time when there are not many there. Day or night. 317-856-6867. Sorry for the late post on this. Mark, I will say hello to Larry for you. Love and Brotherhood. Ron
Ron Paye <ronpaye@home.com>
Indy, IN USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 07:39:46 (MDT)
Flight, Guess its past time for me to put my two cents in on the reunion. Not an easy thing for this old country boy to do, so I will just list a few of the "higher" of the many high points. In addition to all that has been posted before...1) Meeting all the guys and gals who are a part of one of the most important times of my life. 2) The ride down to Louisville, "flying in formation with the 129th again." WOW! 3) Arriving at the hotel and having everyone come out to greet us, before we had even got off the bikes. 4) One of those that greeted us was Tom Pedersen, he flew front seat with me a few times and the last time I saw him was at Lane. 5) Meeting Billy Cockerel again after 30 years. I can picture him with his "great moustache" smiling up at me after a flight. Billy, you no longer have the moustache, but you still have the GREAT smile. 6) Seeing Barry Swanson again. We rode all the way from Calif. to DC last year, and we will do it again. 7) Barry Winkler sharing his "Story" with us. It was, and is very special. 8) Seeing Gently and Joe again. 9) Looking at all the photo's and pictures that every one brought. A few put me back at Lane again. Transported me back in time. 10) Just the fact that some had traveled so far to be there, especially Cups and Matthew Casey "18 hours on a scooter each way." My back hurts just thinking about it. These are just a few many great memories. A few low points are. 1) Missing the reading of the poem's. 2) Missing the presentation to Mark and Dee. Now maybe Mark will stop looking up to us and look at us as equal. Ya got that Mark.... 3) My having to leave early, but you all even turned that into a great positive by everyone coming out to be with me as I preflight and packed my bike to leave. Having 20 to 30 of you out there with me as I prepared to leave was very special to me. I thank you. These are just a few of the high's of a great weekend. I know I will think of more as soon as I send this. To all who were unable to attend, make sure you make plans for next year. You will NOT be sorry. You all take care and hope to see you soon. Love and Brotherhood. Ron
Ron Paye <ronpaye@home.com>
Indy, IN USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 07:25:09 (MDT)
hi guys - wonder if anyone remembers 4th of july fireworks show we set off above the mess hall with 2 cases of red , green , white hand/cluster flares , and m79 parachute flares ??????????? ended in a red alert --- that was the night we "sank" the korean cremtorium , several trucks (korean) , and dam near leveled the "village" out side the perimeter by pol --- everyone from the flight platoons had an m60 and opened up -- the whole south side of the perimeter -- what a mad minute that was!!!!!!!!!!!!!! bill hewit
bill hewit <wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 00:40:52 (MDT)
Thanks for the great info Mark! For those of us who caught on too late to make this year's reunion, please keep us posted. I can make SLC in a heartbeat - is that where it'll be next year? I arrived in October, 1969. I was a crew chief in 2nd Flight Platoon, on 495, till it got shot down. I took over 697 after that. Gary Connolly (sp?) took over as crew chief in June of 1971 when I left. Have lots of pics and still have my patches. Some of the names I see listed here are sure familiar. Would love to hear from any of you guys.
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Monday, July 02, 2001 at 19:22:08 (MDT)