http://www.geocities.com/OURBARRACKS/GIB.html This is the site if you want it.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, Az USA - Saturday, June 30, 2001 at 09:25:19 (MDT)
TRIBUTE TO THE GIB(GUYS IN BACK) OF THE HELICOPTER To the GIB, who made Viet Nam possible. The helicopter was the life blood of the Grunt. It took him to war, and it brought him home. It supported him with everything from water and ammo to air support and medevac. It hauled artillery, it scouted, it flew convoy cover. It did things the designers would never think it could. If someone could think of it, the Aircrews would, and did, get it done. But GIB was the one who made it work. You had it ready to fly sometimes for a 0400 takeoff after getting back at 2300. You'd fly all day, protecting us with your guns and your eyes, loading and unloading anything and everything. Sometimes jumping out in a Hot LZ to find and bring back the wounded and then try to keep them alive enroute to the hospital. There are many people alive because of the GIB. After a long day you'd come home, clean the mess, patch the holes, clean the guns and get ready to do it all over again. There were good pilots and there were some that could have been better, but I've never heard of an aircraft that couldn't find some GIB that wasn't Crazy enough to give it a try. We flew days, we flew nights, we flew good weather, we flew bad weather, but if we were needed, we'd kick the tires and light the fire, pull pitch and fly into whatever was awaiting us and the GIF always knew that the GIB would take care of him FIRST, no matter what. You earned your wings in combat. Please accept these from GIF who would not have made it home without MY GIB. Presented to the attending crew of the 173rd at the VHCMA reunion 23 June 2001 I thought the brothers and sisters that didn't go to the reunion and the ones that didmight like to read this and keep. Be careful out there I got this from Rick Vogel which was read by Doc Reynolds at hte Banquet.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, Az USA - Saturday, June 30, 2001 at 09:22:13 (MDT)
It Sounds like you all had a great reunion. Would have liked to have been there but I', involved with this ongoing tradgedy with my father-in-law & he remains very sick. I have had to be in Billings with the family every time i get a day off but family is 1st but i remain torn as i feel you are family as well. Hopefully, I can get to salt lake next time. thats not far. 500 miles. anyone coming along the northern tier, feel free to stop in. I am in the phone book here in Sheridan. That includes Sturgis which again is only 6 weeks away. Barry Swanson, i am sorry to hear what is happening to you. I liked you from the start when we met in Vegas. Hang in there, any help I can give Holler at me. Mark, did you wear that damn chicken plate? was it Hot? Get it signed? really nice to see that many make it there. I will be looking forward to seeing the dates & agenda for next year as i have to put in for leave a year ahead in december. Mark, do you have any MPC in your collection? I have 2 pieces, different issue. 1 I think is from when I was there the 1st time when you lost Larry. If you want them for the "museum" I will send them. Respects; Smitty
Jim westwang <westwang@fiberpipe.net>
Sheridan, Wy USA - Friday, June 29, 2001 at 11:52:59 (MDT)
Flight............. What a reunion seeing so many brothers and sisters of the 129th in LZ Louisville. Thanks for the brotherhood and the healing. Got Shakey home in the osarks and then back to St Loius then home. What and outstanding reunion an I know next year will be as good if not better. Alex I will get those orders off to you asap. Be careful out there. Clear left!!!!!!!!!!!!. Thanks to Mark and Dee for all there hard work.
Rick Egland <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, Az USA - Friday, June 29, 2001 at 10:00:25 (MDT)
Flight……. Now that I’ve had a little time to reflect let’s see if I can begin to put this down in some cohesive order. So much happened in six days…. When I stepped off the plane in Dayton Tuesday at 10:20PM and Cheryl and Darwin were sitting there it all began. I had not see “Flame” in thirty years. We sat up to 3:30AM, remembering, telling stories and getting to know one another again. Poor Cheryl went to bed after midnight but I’m sure we kept her awake. The next morning the trip to Coldwater and the “Pop A Top”, to meet Dee and Mark for the first time, to see the memorabilia, to sign the flag and then Liz and Alex arrived. Lunch was great and the tears began to flow and that was good,….the customers who came to the table to say thank you to people they had never met or seen. The walks in the park where Darwin had his camper, the emotions building in anticipation of Louisville. The drive Thursday and pulling into the parking lot and seeing the license plates from all over the country and knowing they were all there, the ones who had been there. Seeing Kim and Don and meeting his brother and Cal, Rick, Glenn, Rainer, Lee, Ron, Barry, Billy, Tom and his son, Sam, Wes, Bud, Ray, Pete, Bill, Robbie, Gale, Fred and “Gently” and the wives, boy and girl friends. The long nights and days telling stories, laughing, crying...and it was good. And then along came Casey. How I was ever able to hold it together thru that I'll never know, but then maybe I didn't. The poetry reading Friday evening, meeting a talking with people from other units…and again the stories, laughing, crying…and it was good. More of the same Saturday and then that evening all Casey and I asked for was five minutes. Even though what Matt had done was for the 129th we felt everyone should see it, to see our gradatude to Dee and Mark. Little did we know the effect it would have on the others and then the tears… and it was good! I didn’t get to say goodbye to Casey Sunday morning and I regretted it, but then I thought, I’ll see him and everyone else before long, no tears there. The Sunday breakfast with Cheryl and Darwin and then the goodbyes, there were tears but it won’t be long until I see them again…and that was good. Standing in the lobby waiting for the bus to the airport Wes came in, one last hug, goodbyes and I was our the door. As I was getting in the shuttle someone said “Cups”. I turned around and Wes was standing there…..”Your Clear Left Cups”. And I cried and it was good!
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Thursday, June 28, 2001 at 08:39:15 (MDT)
Flight: Well after reading my earlier post. I should have waited a few days. After seeing my spelling WOW!!! I really screwed up. I am glad to see the commo pick back up. And Kal have a safe trip to Denver. Still riding high from Louisville. Can't find the words to say thank you for all who attended. It will be a reunion to remember. Having the opportunity of seeing all of you made my whole year. Alot of laughs and alot of tears. To Glenn and Rainer my 65-66 brothers. Thanks for both of you. You both are the greatest and I look to you both. Mark and Dee what can I say. You are the comand sarget major of this 129th family. I could go on. To all of you who made LZ Louisville and to all who post on this page. I want to say thank you for the opportunity to be associated with the finest group of Vietnam Brothers and their famlies. I will try harder to find more of the 129th this year. It takes time. But, were going to bring more home to the 129th. Thank you all. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Thursday, June 28, 2001 at 08:34:27 (MDT)
Sorry I haven't posted in here in awhile, but no computer at home just at work. The Reunion was great, and I would like to thank Pete and T.J. Rhome for their hospitality while I was at their place, and also Mark Jackson and his wife Dee for the overnight at their place. I love all you guys. It was great to see familiar faces like Alex and Liz Fernwalt (congratulations V.P.) and to walk away with the Tail Rotor Bracelet and the Rotor blade, I know I was jealous. Glenn Pearmain and his lovely companion, you get to have the next reunion out in your back yard. I was also glad to see "Bud" Rainey and Ray Smiley and his wife Virginia there. I was Ray's door gunner for awhile after the ship I was supposed to get to crew crashed and rolled down a mountain. He is one of the nicest people I have ever met and one of the people I was looking most forward to meeting again. Thanks "Bud" for coming down to see us, it was really great to see you again. I know if Smiley were there when you were, I would have been in the middle with you two beating on me (just in fun of course). And to all of the new people that I met this time, It was just unbelieveable. Don Mccort and his brother Mark. Thanks mark for bringing Don to the reunion, and Cups. I believe Cups was the one person I met at the Reunion that brought me to tears most every time he started talking. When I was just a little Crew Chief, if I was bad I could count on my father finding out somehow and I would invariably get the "belt", But as I got older my father could no longer make me cry with the belt. Yet at the Reunion I can think of at least a dozen times when I was either close to tears or crying ................... So if you're sitting there reading this and wondering if you should make contact with us or not, all I can say is it really feels good!! Mark, we were this close brother.. I love you and Dee. Robbie
Robbie <hobbes@kodak.com>
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, June 28, 2001 at 06:09:19 (MDT)
FOUR MONKEYS : can't remember who my gunner was but i do remember the pilots . we were flying for some artillery unit down by miami beach (26th reg. a.o.) hauling personell , mail , and other supplies . pretty much - BORING - !! stopped at one arty firebase for lunch . we were walking from helipad in front of these 8" howitzers towards the messhall they had there , when we heard , "ON THE WAY !!!" . well , we picked ourselves up checked each other over : singed and ears were ringing . the arty boys thought we'd been hurt from the way we'd bounced off the ground several times from the muzzel blast . well , mr.witmer was facing in the direction the projo had gone , grabed mr. stowe and showed him how the projo had come out . about that time we heard , "ON THE WAY !!" , again . we picked ourselves up again went thru same afore mentioned drill . mr. witmer had us huddle up and said ," i want a picture of that mother coming out of the barrel !!!!!!!" well you cuold see the projo come out of the muzzel blast and go out of sight !!! cool !! so the next round we were ready : mr. witmer had mr. stowe stick his fingers in mr. witmer's ears , the gunner did the same for mr. stowe i did the same for the gunner and held my mouth open (heard somewher tha your eardrums woudn't emplode) . never will forget the ASSCHEWING we got from the officer in charge , quite animated he was , don't remember much of what he said ( ears were still ringing from 3rd muzzle blast ) . however , do remember , " FOUR MONKEYS F#(*%ING A FOOTBALL !!!!!!!" .we all laughed about that the rest of the day and all the way back to lane . here,s for laughs guys .. bill hewit
bill hewit <wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at 23:27:13 (MDT)
Familey and Friends od the 129th: This is a little more on my "weekend". Strange things have been going on in my head since last weekend. It seems like a VCR has been pluged into my mind and keeps playing a variety of shows all pertaining to VN and the reunion. Memories that have been hidden for so long have popped out of nowhere. I am sure they will be with me for a long time. Sunday I will be heading for Denver to the VHPA reunion and seriously doubt it will hold a candle to our meeting at LZ Louisville. I almost wish I wasn't going now.. Will just have to play it by ear, I have familey in the area so have something to fall back on.. It was a very refreshing experience that will be cherished for a long time.. C U L8r... Kal..
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu@email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at 18:16:56 (MDT)
Flight, Its been quite a while sense I last posted ( I make it a point to check the log at least a couple of times a week, but rarely had any thing to add). After this weekend I'll try and make it a point to at least say hi. To say it was great to see althoughs that attended would be criminal. I can't say how much I needed to be their, to place faces to names and to put an end to a promis that I had made so many years ago. I had wanted to say thanks to "Cups" for saving my life. This is something I wanted to do only face to face. He helped me make a decision that I feel is a reason I'm still here today. Mark and Dee it was wonderful to finaly get a chance to see the two of you, I had a great time getting to know you in that short time. It was well worth the 18 hour drive each way to spend some time with the 129th family. To the both of you you made it posible for it to happen. I had a lot of fun putting together the thank you from us. As I had seen so many posts that thanked Mark and Dee for their efforts to make this site a reality, I took it upon myself to make that statement a perminate one, may each time you look at it be a wispered thank you from one of us. All I can say now is that it was one hell of a birthday party. I want to thank every one who attended for helping remind me of the great friendships that were formed so many years ago. Cups, brothers for life. Tails Clear Left Bulldog 174 Matt Casey
Matthew Casey <mcasey1947@cs.com>
Aurora, CO USA - Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at 16:14:50 (MDT)
Evening Flight: I first want to apologize for being AWOL for such a long time from the site. I have spent just about one of the worst years of my life since last years Run For The Wall. The big "D" got ahold of me, yep Divorce......I think I have got a grip, and had not planned making the trip to LZ Louisville. But in the back of my head I knew I needed to get reconnected to all my brothers from the 129th, and see some very special friends or I should say family, I am truly grateful that I did. I would also like to say to Matt and Cup's "Great Job" in representing us all in acknowledging Mark as well as Dee for their ongoing efforts to bring the 129th family back together. It was an honor to meet all of you guy's, and a chance to tie a face to a name. Mark, Dee, Pete, TJ, Ron, Matt, and my very close brother Billy, I can't say how good it feels to see you all again. I still get pumped and goose bumps just thinking about the time spent together. Alex, I will help you out anyway I can to get more names from orders to run down brothers that are unaware of our site here. Watching you guy's pull up on the bikes in front of the hotel in Louisville, only makes my mouth water thinking out to next year in Salt Lake City where I plan to make the reunion on the bike as well..........God Bless all of you.......and thank you for making the weekend such a memory I won't forget.........and Barry "Wink" , please don't hold my joking with you to deeply, you can get even next year, love ya brother.
Barry Swanson <Bulldog910@hotmail.com>
Riverside, CA USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 17:32:39 (MDT)
Hello Flight,....just got a few hours off to write a little and take care of some bizz for the Pop-A-Top. As far as a roster of all that made the gig in Louisville, the names that Alex posted are correct with these few added ones.Robbie Robinson, Larry's door gunner in the Nam. Later on I will tell the story of how Robbie and I almost had a celeb show up at the gig after our little walk in down town Louisville. What ever Dee says:-))))))......Fred Elvis stoped in for a shot while, and Lee Wood was there for 2 days. Other then that, the roster is complete.......Hey Gently. We have our photo back of that "MOON" shot from the 129th. Will scan soon and insert it...opps......bad choice of words;-)))))..may have to put a Parental consent waiver on it;-)))))))))))...............will talk later.....wanna scan some of these photos now.........hope to have them up tomorrow maybe.......GOD BLESS YOU ALL ,and thanks for a weekend that I will never forget............"CUPS"....Pretty quite there pal!!!!...you talked more then that at the gig;-)))).....Just kiddin' man. I know of the emotions you all must be going through. Great week, but also a tough week in a sense....take care brother and all of you....always a brother and sister, Mark and Dee
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 14:55:23 (MDT)
To all. There is not much I can add to what has been written below. Except many, many more thanks. I will never forget last week. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince , Haiti - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 13:41:05 (MDT)
A big thank you to everyone in the 129th family for making our 1st reunion a great experience Thanks for the WELCOME HOME. Lee and Carolyn Wood
LEE K WOOD <CWOOD86700@aol.com >
DAYTON, OH USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 19:31:50 (MDT)
hi guys -- found author of unit history : 1LT marc l. cullison .... he didn't know about website --- HE DOES NOW !!!!!! said he would check it out ..... keep an eye out for him ... bill hewit
bill hewit <wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 19:27:07 (MDT)
Well!!! Where to start.. Having just returned from one of my lifes great experiences and trying to sort it all out is quite a chore. I want to say first off is THANKS to all that were there and we couldn't have done it without YOU!! I won't even try to bring up names as that would be a desaster but each of as added to the whole and each little bit added up to a great trip!!.. My main thanks for "making it happen" goes to Alex and Liz.. I know you put many hours into it and must say that being the new "Vice-Prez" is going to keep you hopping. THANKS. Thanks to Casey and Cups for the fine presentation to Mark. Without you Mark we would still be drifting.. There are so many things to expound on from the LZ Louisville experience that it will remain front row for a long time and I sure will be looking foreward to the next time. I could go on and on but I think I'd better back off a bit and do more later. I must admitt to having CRS now and being able to put it on paper is quite a job.. Once again.. Thanks for the experience!! Welcome Home Brouthers!! ... C U L8r... Kal
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu@email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 13:19:32 (MDT)
My brothers and sisters: Joe and I made it home safely....but it was quiet in the car for quite a while as we both reflected on the reunion. And because it was wonderful to meet all of you and finally put some faces to some names, I found tears falling from my eyes as we left Louisville. It will take a while to process all that I experienced and felt over the weekend. Each time I saw a name tag with a familiar name on it I wanted to capture the face of that person and look into their eyes, to search for the 18 or 19 year old who fought in Vietnam. And though we are not 18 and 19, I saw only 18 and 19 year olds at the reunion....and now I love you more. Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 11:27:51 (MDT)
Flight: Well hard to find the words to express my feelings from the reunion. That week will hhang with me for a while. The biggest highlite was Saturday night, When with the about 500 people present Matt Casey Who rode 18 hours from Colorado and Cups presented Mark Jackson with plaque to honor him for his deication to the 129th AHC. Mark has helped a lot of us. In My eyes He a giant of a man and a true Brother. Over the years Mark has given a 110% to the 129th. And the 500 or so people thoght so too, after Matt and Cupp's speach. Aolt with tears in there eyes stood and appaulled This great man and human being Mark Jackson,They all reconized his deciation to His Brother Larry and the 129th. Thank you Mark and Dee and the rest of the Jackson family for letting us become part of your family. Well,I personally want thank all of you who attend the reunion. You made the week for me. Still riding the high!!!! Alot of first time reuions after all these yours. Gleen and Rainer 36years and Cupp's and Matt 30years. 2nd platoon sgt.Ellish,Lee wood, Kal Bergstrom, Rick England and myself from67-68. Some of the list are Mark and Dee Jackson,Pete and TJ Rhome,Lee Wood and his wife,Matt Casey,Barry"the clown" Winkler,Don MoCort and his Brother,Rainer and Dee Bauer,Rick England,Kal Bergstm, Ron Paye,Darwin and Cheryl Schiedt,Barry Swanson,Billy Cockerel,Tom Pederson and his son,Kim La Voie,Wes Griffith,Gale and Debbie Beard,Judith"GENTLY" Singer,Joe Campbell,Jim"CUPP's" Masencup,Sam and Sharon Hennessee,Glenn Pearmain and his friend Glenna,and my wonderful wife Liz and I. Mark has a complete list. That we will post. I also want to send my thanks and appreication to all the wifves.For there understanding and hanging in there with us. My goal is to try and find at least 20 new men from the 129th. So you can send a copiy of orders with social numbers to me at Alex Fernwalt 4793 Northfield circle, Memphis Tn. 38128 And I'll run them. Ray Smiley and Bud Rainey was there too! Well will pull pitch and head out of here. Lets work hard this year and find the 129thBrother's out there. Your Brother Always Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.com>
Memphis , Tn USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 11:15:40 (MDT)
Mornin' 129th! Debbie & I made it home safe and I hope the same goes for all.I'm sorry that we had to leave early. I'd loved to have been there Sat night to see what Matt brought to present to Mark & Dee. Mark,I know how you feel about accepting too much credit, but, Bro. your heart must be about three times it's size from knowing down deep what you have done here! I've never been in such a large group of "strangers" that showed so much Brotherly & Sisterly Love in all my life.I can hardly believe all of the different emotions that I experienced over the last few days. Congrats to Alex and keep up the good work. I joined the VHCMA while there and I encourage all who have not to do so. Gale & Debbie
Gale Beard 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 07:22:12 (MDT)
Evenin' Flight..............Mark and Dee here. Made it home safe and sound from Louisville........oh what a time those had that attended...laughed, cried, hugged and partied...many stories to tell in my mind.........will right more and post a full roster of members that were there....those that were there ......set down in front of the box and tell your memories of this weekend also.....Good news for you left coast livers next year..........the 129th MINI in conjunction with the VHCMA gig will be held in Salt Lake City , Utah.WE will post the details when they are availble to us on the front page here...........we had a total of 26 members of the 129th in Louisville, plus wives and friends this past weekend. Double the amount from last year. Next year, lets TRIPLE THAT!!!!!!!!...whatta ya say?????????.............. must be off now and shower this road dust of me:-))))........GOD BLESS YOU ALL......LOTS OF HEALING WENT ON THIS WEEKNED.I PERSONAL THAT ALL OF YOU, THOSE THERE, AND THOSE NOT!!!!! ALWAYS A BROTHER AND SISTER, MARK AND DEE
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Sunday, June 24, 2001 at 20:58:27 (MDT)
hi guys , anyone have a 1st. flt. plt. em (ce or gunner) patch ??????????????? if so could you send me a photocopy of it . PLEASE ............. bill hewit ps must be triangle one .............
bill hewit <wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 22:13:19 (MDT)
We are trying to get the word out about our project and though perhaps you might be able to help us. Vietnam veterans . . . WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!!! Have you ever spent time in a veteran's hospital? This not-for-profit group works to lessen the bleakness that permeates most Veterans Health Administration hospitals. Check out the Kitchen Table Gang Trust at http://taliaferro.net/veterans Many military veterans have deemed our efforts worthy of support and we hope you will too. Hand salute!
Charlie Taliaferro <charles@taliaferro.net>
NAS Lemoore, CA USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 17:35:59 (MDT)
hi guys -- does anyone know dates when 129th was sent to ahn khe on tack-e to support 4th inf. div. because they lost most of thier ac on the ground due to sappers ??????????? bill hewit ps -- '69 -- '70 ???
bill hewit < wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 10:16:35 (MDT)
hi guys -- does anyone know dates when 129th was sent to ahn khe on tsck-e to support 4th inf. div. because they lost most of thier ac on the ground due to sappers ??????????? bill hewit ps -- '69 -- '70 ???
bill hewit < wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 10:16:04 (MDT)
hi mark -- been mia/awol in the burg last few months -- sent bunch of pictures --some may be repeats , however most i hadn't seen for 30 years -- box of pics should arrive sometime soon -- there are 2 pics on top -think they are of matt casey -- all of the old ones i found in an old book i was lending someone here -- wake up call -- got the scratch together finally and had all the 16mm negs. printed -- bill
bill hewit <wahiv@wizzards.net>
roseburg, or USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 00:36:02 (MDT)
chuckling here,no wonder they had a blank stare.I havent changed,i could still csrew up a wet dream...... Hey , looking forward to tomorrow.All please drive carefull
fred alvis <fredfrosty@aol.com>
indianapolis, in USA - Wednesday, June 20, 2001 at 17:37:28 (MDT)
Hey Fred, You were 24 hours early. We will be there tomorrow, (Thursday). If I know you would be there today I would have been there just to say Hi. I hope you can make it tomorrow. If you can, lunch will be on me. I am really sorry for the mix-up. Hope it wasn't my fault Ron
Ron Paye <ronpaye@home.com>
Indy, IN USA - Wednesday, June 20, 2001 at 16:01:34 (MDT)
I walked in there at 5 till 2.Ask for the chopper people and recieved a blank stare.i came home.Have a good time in louisville guys
fred alvis <fredfrostyjrAaol.com>
indy, in USA - Wednesday, June 20, 2001 at 14:16:29 (MDT)
Flight.....Time is getting close. One day and a wake up. For all meeting up in Indy, we will be meeting at the Cracker Barrel restaurant. It is on Southport Road. The first exit south of 465, on I-65. When you exit turn right and it will be on your right by the Signature Inn. They will have a table for us. Just ask for the Vietnam chopper people. There is a Shell gas station and Southside Harley Davidson about a quarter mile east of the Cracker Barrel. From there it is a straight shot to Louisville. I just received an e-mail from Barry Swanson and he will be flying in from Calif. He and Billy Cockrel (crewchiefs, 72-73) will be meeting up with us in Louisville. A good time will be had by all. Ron Paye
Ron Paye <ronpaye@home.com>
Indy, IN USA - Tuesday, June 19, 2001 at 16:49:15 (MDT)
Well, I'm going to Louisville!!! Joe Campbell( Phouc Vin, Cu Chi, 67-68, Army) and I will be getting in in time for the "Pizza and beer" on Friday. Don't ANYONE leave until we get there! I want to meet everyone of you! Several times!! Alex, may I join your wife at the luncheon on Saturday? Mark, I have something for your bar? Ron, it'll be great to see you again! Can't wait to meet and see all of you, you who I have had such great times with, both sad and happy, over the last couple of years. And perhaps someone who knew Tom Shaw will be there. For our friends who are unable to make it, you'll be there is spirit, we'll make sure of that! You will be missed, but not absent. Everyone drive safely, so as not to put a damper on this reunion. Very happy-Gently
GentlyJ <Gentlyj@aol.com>
Milwaukee, USA - Monday, June 18, 2001 at 13:09:47 (MDT)
Hello Flight: Well, things are coming together for the run to Louisville.. I am going to try to meet up with the bunch that is going to form up at Indy. I hope to be at the Cracker Barrel by 1:30. I will be flying solo as my "6" can't get out of work. If anyone is looking to split a room, let me know as I am sure it will cut the expenses quite a bit. Sure am looking foreward to this reunion and hope to meet a lot of you people reading this there.. C U L8r.... Kal..
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu@email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Friday, June 15, 2001 at 23:02:36 (MDT)
Hello flight, I need a little help here. a friend of mine was in Viet Nam in 1967. he was with the third Marine Div. unfortunatly he was killed on hill 881 N. his brother whom I graduated with would like info about the battle and would like to get in touch with anyone that was with Joe before or when he was killed. as luck would have it my brother was also in the 3rd and he was on the second assault of 881 N. and while going thru personal effects to identify the KIA's he noticed that Joe was from my home town and wrote me and asked me if I knew him. ....... two weeks before the family was notified. No I didn't say anything to the family till they were offically notified. so how can I help Julio find info about his brother ? and how can I tell him I knew his brother was KIA two weeks before he did ? this one is really biting me in the butt because Joe has been on my mind ever since he died. I couldn't attend his funeral because it was on 5 June 1967 ..... THE DAY I REPORTED TO ACTIVE DUTY. ... anyway the main part of my problem is I need to find info about the 3rd Marine Div. and 881 N ... I'll figure out how to deal with the other part ....... I hope. thanks for any help you can offer. and have a great time at the reunion ..... clear right.
Don Miller <ayla@c2i2.com>
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Thursday, June 14, 2001 at 19:50:15 (MDT)
Flight: Well A wake up for me. I work until 3am friday morning and sleep for a few hours and head North to Barberton ,Ohio. So, will visit the folks and spend fathers day there! First one in about 20 years. Last year the 61st had pictures of lane from the first day was they got there. And the month to month development of Lane as we knew it. Mark will coming through sometime on weds. afternoon. Have to met Charlie Weds. evening in Louisville. Well Flight looking forward to the week. Turned 55 yesterday, and still kicking ass!!! This also my 10 yrs. with the VHCMA Louisville was my 1st 1991. Plus from just me for 7 years,then Glenn Pearmain in 98. To about 12 in 2000. And this year? Well well see on the size of the 129th. Take Bro's!!! Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Thursday, June 14, 2001 at 07:52:44 (MDT)
yes,the 61st was across the hill from us.When they pulled gaurd duty,they faced the mountians i believe and we faced the Korean compound and the steam and cream. If anyone is near Denver july 4th,they are having there reunion then
fred alvis <fredfrostyjr@aol.com>
indy, in USA - Wednesday, June 13, 2001 at 17:11:40 (MDT)
Mark, Good to see you back. I'm sure we all knew you were busy. Last I heard from Flame he is picking me up. He dumped the Caddy, said I get back seat of his new truck. I was looking foward to the Caddy. I can't remember the last time I was in one. Oh well. See you Tuesday night, have a cold one waiting, it's a long trip. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Wednesday, June 13, 2001 at 13:49:37 (MDT)
........YO FAMILY OF THE 129TH!!!!!!!!!!!!......YOOOOOHOOOOOOOOO........GUESS WHO THIS IS????............sure am sorry I am been AWOL from in here for so long, but rest assured we are alive a kickin'!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.............been so busy with this retirement thang of runnin' the Pop-A-Top. I had no idea that the place would take off like it has. I'll be damned if sometimes we don't serve over 70 people lunch specials between 11:00AM/1:00PM. It gets real hectic in there at that time, and later there is always the beer drinkers and hell raisers in the evenin'. The joint is doin well. TOM S. I saw that show on the History channel also this weekend as Dee and I were out in Kansas for our niece's wedding. I could not go to bed until it was over. And YES, you are correct, they did mention An Son and Qui Nhon a lot. Matter of fact the one guy they interviewed alot was with the 61st. Was not that a unit stationed at LANE??????....I recall that it was!!!!!...............lookin' real forward to meetin' up all that are comin' to Louisville later this month...Like real soon matter of fact!!!!!!!!.............those of you who are planin' on meetin' up here in Coldwater???...PLEASE let me know where and when you are comin' in/ We have beds here for aleast 6. CUPS????....is Flame pickin' ya up in the caddie in Dayton???....or should I make arrangments to meet you there?????????..........Hoosier guys........I talked to Ron Paye of the 129th from INDY just the other day on the phone and we would like to meet up at the Cracker Barrel at the 1st exit just south of INDY on I/65 around 2:PM.........is that affermantive with all of you that plan to make the trip. And even if you are not makin' that trip and are from that AO.....PLEASE join us for lunch there!!!!!!!!!!!!Even if we stop to eat there we should still make Louisville befor night fall. Man am I pumped over all this. Sorry I have been gone for so long in here gang......I feel as if I have let you down by not makin' these plans earlier!!!!!!!!!....I hope it can work out.....if not...we all will be in KY together anyways!!!!!:-)))))))))))).......I put a blip in the American Legion Mag about a month ago about the reuion and have had 2 e/mails and 3 phone calls about it. One of the guys was with Larry in his hooch that last night he was alive. It was great to talk to him. A James Grant.............DAN H!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...I have recieved your package of 129th patches and nuts and screws of a chopper. I have one in my pocket right now that later on I am going out to Larry's restin' spot and some how am goin' ta fix it to his head stone.....Thanks a million Dan...........Damn.....I need to stay more active in here!!!!!!!!!!!!I feel like I have left you all down..........I know, I know....you all are goin' ta say...shut up mark.......you have done all of us a great service by makin' that page in the first place............but...well.....thats just me.........I feel I have ledt you down somehow........I will make it a habit to be hereb more often..........I have been getting some new names from men that were in the n129th but just have not had time to add them to the CONTACTS Page.....will do so in a few days......sorry about that guys......KIM L>....So gald you made it to the Traveling WALL>..........see ya in in a week brother!!!!!! RICK E....looking forward to seeing you again this year....have a safe trip over here man FRED A>??????>are you goin' to make the trip down to Louisville>>>>>>>>Good to here from you brother!!!!!!!!!!!!......meet us at the CRacker Barrel!!!!!!!!!.....TIMV........you will be with us in our hearts at the gig......you TCB back there and at least we are connected in here!!!!!!!...Love ya man!!!!!! WELL>dont know if I answered all the questions and post in here that I should of.........ALL I CAN SAY IS THIS........AS DAY DOES NOT GO BY WHERE I DO NOT THINK OF ALL OF YOU............AND FEEL THE BOND THAT YOU HAVE AND IN A SENSE I HAVE THAT SAME BOND.........GOD LOVE YA ALL......ALL BE CAFEFUL THAT ARE TRAVERLIN', AND THE REST......BE CAREFUL OUT THERE IN LIFE........IF ANY ONE OF YOU EVER THINK THAT NOBODY IN THE WORLD CARES ABOUT YOU ALL.....CALL ME.......419-678-4697/419-678-3445........AND TALK TO ME.....I'LL TELL YA JUST HOW MUCH YOU MEAN TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.,.............BREAK LEFT,BREAK LEFT.......THE "257" TURNING INBOUND TO THE BEACON AND CLIMIBG TO 6,000.....LETS GO TO LOUISVILLE LARRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ALWAYS A BROTHER, MARK
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
LZ HOME, USA - Wednesday, June 13, 2001 at 13:12:22 (MDT)
Watched the History Channel the other night, Time Machine: The Personal Experience: Helicopter Warfare In Vietnam. Excellent program as has been mentioned here before. An Son and Lane were mentioned. Getting checked per advice from someone, sorry can't remember who on this site, and the VA the other day for Agent Orange - Dioxin. We flew some gun cover missions ahead of and behind C-123's spraying the QuiNhon Pass in early '68. We were told at the time they were spraying a mixture of diesel fuel and JP4 to kill the vegetation. It was Agent Orange. Turned everything black and dead in about two days. Was also around the stuff in Korea in 69-70. As were many of us on the ground at Lane a bit later. The check is free and open at the VA to anyone who set foot in Nam. Listening to Adagio for Strings from Platoon. Charlie(?) Sheen's voice over the music -"Those of us who did make it have an obligation to build, to teach to others what we know and to try with what's left of our lives to find a goodness and a meaning to this life". Won't be able to make Louisville. Hope to meet you all one day. With appreciation to you all, Soothsayer, 67-68
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@home.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at 23:08:04 (MDT)
Yes it is coming close an I can't wait. Looking forward to seeing everybody and remember who was there last year. Everybody have a great and safe summer. Be careful out there. Rick England 129th AHC Bite N Strike Lane Army Airfield Bull Dog 431 The Iron Butterfly 623 388 2628 20417 Denver Hill Wittmann Az. 85361
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
Wittmann, Az USA - Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at 19:52:59 (MDT)
Flight: Well down to 7 days and a wake up. And then LZ Louisville. To those who can't make it. I know Mark will have pictures posted shortly after the reunion. There will be some long awaited reunions being made. And for me meeting all whom I have had communted with over the past year. Also stopping off at the POP-A-TOP on my way into Louisville. Well my Brothers take care. Clear left,clear right and ready for a CA on LZ Louisville. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <alferneal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at 07:04:17 (MDT)
Reunion Flight: Between my work schedule and working at the Red River Valley Fair, as part of the Cass County Sherrif's Emergency Services Unit, I'm not going to be able to make to the reunion. For all those who are wondering, that's the Red River of the North, the one that flows north thru Fargo/Moorhead and Grand Forks into Canada. I will be in Cleveland on business on 22 & 23 June. Will be thinking about all you folks at the reunion. Hope you all have a great time. Side Note: Mark, I've got a few stories I'd like to post, like the one about Cups loosing his aircraft. What's the best way to do that?
Tim Vreeman <timothyvreeman@meritcare.com; timothyvreeman@msn.com>
Moorhead, MN USA - Monday, June 11, 2001 at 12:10:37 (MDT)
As i live in indianapolis,who is coming thru here on the way to the reunion?i am about 5 miles north of the airport,very near where 74 west enters speedway.if need be,i have a room for someone coming thru late.I am about 2 hours from louisville........shhh dont tell wife i offered.....lol
fred alvis <fredfrostyjr@aol.com>
indianapolis, in USA - Monday, June 11, 2001 at 06:59:40 (MDT)
Kim its a start. Last year was my first reunion. Be careful out there.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring>
wittmann , Az USA - Saturday, June 09, 2001 at 21:18:59 (MDT)
Harrel I am thier for you man. I will miss having a cig. with you. Maybe I win the golf tourenmant. Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Rick Egland ` <bd431@mindspring>
Wittmann, Az USA - Saturday, June 09, 2001 at 21:13:58 (MDT)
Ken, You can find the 61st web site at WWW.metrocast.net/~jsbeach. Good luck. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince , Haiti - Saturday, June 09, 2001 at 07:42:10 (MDT)
Hey guys. Down a cold one for me at the reunion. I will be unable to attend this year, but will see you next year wherever its help. Have a good time
Harrell Guidry <Harrell.Guidry@atofina.com>
Groves, Tx USA - Friday, June 08, 2001 at 12:38:49 (MDT)
Looking for info on the 61st, Lucky Star. Can anyone help?
Ken Yozamp <kyozamp@worldnet.att.net>
USA - Friday, June 08, 2001 at 10:46:43 (MDT)
I am just reposting what I posted before encase someone will see it that didn't see the old one. I am looking for anyone who knew my uncle, Olen Wayne Garrett. He received The Air Medal on 21st of March 1968 for the actions on 02/10/1968 through 02/17/1968. I have some kind of "year book" from where he trained at Fort Polk, Louisiana. He was Honorably Discharged on 02/28/1971. He service # was 461-82-2902. Any kind of info would be wonderful.
Melody PershALL <melodypershall@hotmail.com>
Amarillo, TX USA - Thursday, June 07, 2001 at 14:51:25 (MDT)
I started to put down my thoughts on this page, about eight times, this past few days. I made it to the travelling wall, on saturday. Emotional, to say the least! I still don't know what keeps me from putting things into perspective.....it's not as if I saw a whole lot of combat, or, that our unit suffered a lot of casualties while I was there, thankfully. It is just amazing, that after a while, names and faces of community members, people from basic, AIT, from Ft. Stewart start to materialize, then, to look at all the other names.......Alex, Cups, thanks for reminding me that I'm not the only one who feels a little strange about all this. I'm definitely beginning to look forward to June twentieth. guns cold and clear....Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Monday, June 04, 2001 at 18:57:47 (MDT)
Flight: To Kim and Jim. For 20 years the only thing I remembered about vietnam was robert Gilliam,Johnny Neal,Robert Chamberlain and Harry Whetzel They were the first kia's of the 129th. I didn't or refused to remember anything else about vietnam or the 129th. I was a loner to some extent. Then one day the moving wall came to Memphis. A oriental friend wanted to pay his respect to those on the wall. Once I got there I found that I could't walk the wall with him. As I stood waiting a guy came up yo me wearing a Vietnam Veteran Hat. He said Welcome home! I was wearing a old ragged bush hat with flight wings on it. I guess it gave me away. He was with the vietnam helicopter crewmembers asso. He gathered 3 or 4 more crewmembers and walked me down the wall. I was a scared guy, but I made it. Little did that I know that day. It was just the beginng. At the VHCMA reunion in Philly. The realilty hit. The trip was to the WALL in DC. I was very nervous on the bus trip there. Boold pressure riding high. The bus came to a stop. And we unloaded. As we Got within sight of the wall. I knew I couldn't make this walk. I was always non-emotional. It all started melting away. tears came to my eyes. I was afraid to walk the wall. After about 30 mintues of staring. Members of the VHCMA came and embraced me and a few others and walked us down the walk way. They stopped at the section with Gilliam,Neal,Chamberlian and Whetzel. I finally made the wall. It was the most emotional thing I had been through in 20 something years. And the longest walk of my life. Since that day I was hoping to find the men I served with in the 129th with. Then Charlie Rains told me of assoiate member Mark Jackson. The rest is history. In closing you need to make the Wall in DC. But, Go with a Brother. But, go!!! The healing well come forth. Alex 129th 65-68. OH!! Afew months after my trip to the Wall. I got a letter friend abrother Crewmember. And in there was a picture he had taken at the wall. Looking close at the picture. My reflection on the Wall should me standing in the wall with our Brothers. See you all in Louisville.
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Monday, June 04, 2001 at 07:33:59 (MDT)
Has anyone tried to use the chat link? If so any idea how to long on and use?
John Dillman <dillmanjc@worldnett.att.net>
Liberty, MO USA - Sunday, June 03, 2001 at 13:59:47 (MDT)
I'd like to send you a patch of the Unit when it was the 129th AHC (Caveman). I was with the Unit from 1974 to 1978 at Ft. Bragg, N.C. Would enjoy hearing from my buddies during the 74-78 time frame.
Al Tobosa <altobosa@yahoo.com>
Hilo, Hi. USA - Saturday, June 02, 2001 at 16:20:12 (MDT)
Flight....Kim....I've never made it to the wall. The few times I have been to Washington it wasn't built yet. Kim, you wrote of apprehension. I think that and more so trepidation has kept me from going after it was built. At first the thought of going to the reunion was apprehensive. It's been a long time since I've been able to feel comfortable in a public gathering. What sinched the trip was the idea of at first meeting up with Casey and going in together and then Mark extended it to meeting in Coldwater and going in as a unit. The thought of seeing my old brothers and to meet my new ones has erased all fear. I know you all will be there, as you were so long ago. As Mark put it so well......I'M PUMPED!!! Who knows, Casey, the Run To The Wall next year might be the next step. And I thought I never needed rehab. Casey, clear left? Nolen, clear right? Flame, clear overhead? Here we go. Cups
Jim Masencup <JimAntilleanM@netscape.net>
Port-au-Prince , Haiti - Saturday, June 02, 2001 at 10:10:48 (MDT)
The travelling wall is up here, this weekend. i've never been able to go to it. There's something about memorial Day....It brings back memories of one time the company had a big shing dig. Cookout, (memorial day tradition,Iguess),music, top even brought in a couple ambulance loads of whores! I always wondered if he ever realized just how many of them were running around the compound!!!!!We needed more whores around there about as bad as Custer needed to see more Sioux. I guess it made him feel like he was taking care of us..... I'm definitely looking towards the reunion, a little apprehensive, I might add. Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
livermore, Me USA - Friday, June 01, 2001 at 21:45:52 (MDT)