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Hey Freddie, welcome back, I thought you got lost in the O-zone again. Alvis; are there any pics of you in the gallery? I'd like to connect a face to you since we probably flew together. Also, did you guys get the vinyl Huey stickers in the package? Let me know if you want more, cause I have a machine that spits them out by the dozen. I would be happy to donate them or any other unit insignia to sell as a way to help pay for the maintanance of this website. I could send them bulk and would ask only that someone else handle the distribution and funds. My heartfelt thanks to the person(s) that have been keeping this place going so far. Dinner's ready and I'm outa here! Later, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 23:59:24 (MDT)

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welcome back freddy
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 20:07:12 (MDT)

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Well....Great Reunion......I`ve been busy with my mother...I brought her down here to N.C., Memorial Day week-end. Just got back from taking her BACK home to Columbus. She took over the household....We had to get her back home!!!!! BUT.....What`s Supppppp!!!!! Well...My Wife Kim!!!!! When I first met her I pretended she didn`t exist.......That way I LOVED her more....She suggested we get married and move into a house.......I suggested "we" jump "over-board" and live in the "Lost City of Atlantis".....where "Mermaids sing" and "Tuxcedo dressed Dolphins" bring you breakfast!!!!! But now they want to "transfer" us to the Moon....worse wages...but better hours......worse pay!!!!....But better fellow workers....... Kim and I have buildt our LOVE out of "blood"......BUT......I went to the "dentist" and told him,"Take out my heart".....NOW.....I feel better than James Brown.........I Feel Good!!!!!!!! BTW.....I attended Memorial Day with Fiedel Castro.....MY DUDE!!!!! But "buxom cross-dressers" thru "fake" gold coins at our feet, while Fiedel and I talked about the "Revolution".......Suddenly.....C.I.A. men , dressed in bikini`s, tried to stab us with "poison fountain pens"........Fiedel blew "mustard gas" thru his cigar and imobilized all of them.........19 Tequila double shots later......... Fiedel and I had a deal!!!!!!...... Havana will go back to the Mob and Fiedel and I start a "chain" of Kentucky Fried Chicken store`s.......Ain`t life grand.......Ain`t life GREAT....I feel better than James Brown......I FEEL GOOD.........
Fred Skaggs
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 16:02:17 (MDT)

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Ron a special thanks for that BBQ and the ride from Czuba. Bob Taylor missed you on sat and was good to see you. The Carlson brothers thanks for the hat, hope that works out. It was great to see the family again and looking forward to next year. Speaking of next year we hope to have a better poetry and music session. Please bring any of your poetry or musical instruments with you if possible. I got home to my grand daughter and she was sick been to the doctors and everything is better now. Flight be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 04:57:17 (MDT)

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Glad to hear you are home, Jim W. I can't even imagine putting on that many miles in one trip! Ray, Gail was going to show me your purchase at the antique mall and we forgot! Shoot! Enjoyed getting to know you both a little bit and to find out we have more than one common interest. Mark, I have experience in doing newsletters if you need a volunteer. People could submit articles, etc. on a Word document, and then it would just be a matter of cut & paste (with a little tweeking). If an e-newletter was done, there would be no postage cost to anyone. Are the folks coming to the reunions all hooked up to computers or would some need to be mailed? Just some things to ponder. As I tell folks about the reunion, more and more things surface. It is almost too much to grasp. So much going on, and so many people to meet. We were exhausted by the end of the weekend. I guess I, too, need to say thanks to everyone who was so nice to Jim & I. We were both glad we came. And the "moon" over Indianapolis never looked so good, eh guys? lol
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 21:28:46 (MDT)

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great reunion,it was the best so far. i think every year will get better an better.gald all made it home safe.an to you all who i got at the reunion finders keepers, haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa haaaaaaaa.animal that was agreat piece of workmenship. ron thanks again for having us all over for the bbq it was great.. 350 some odd days to the next reunion, i think we should have a short timers calander made up so that we can count the days. just a thought.gently, joe we missed you two but you all that could not make it , you were all in our thoughts. hey alex , i am what i am.heeeeeeeeee.great time. wink 3/69-10/70 from 010 with love
wink
USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 20:05:00 (MDT)

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This is the 1st post cause i wasn't able. Just got home Tues 430pm. GREAT REUNION, a lot of folks to thank & will put in a longer post a little later, very tired right now. Was gone from home 11 days, Total distance ridden on the Harley 2987 miles ( did'nt count the float across Lake Michigan). I have scrolled down & read the posts & it looks like we are all home safe. God working again no doubt. I will also be sending pics etc. As soon as i can put it together>> Thanks>> God bless you all>> Respects>>Smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 17:28:09 (MDT)

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Thanks for the welcome home guys and gals. This was my first reunion. Bittersweet. Glad to meet some guys I knew (and some I didn't know) but sad recalling some who didn't make it back or who have already left us. Sad that we can't find all those who don't know about us yet. Thanks to Iron Butterfly (England) for the welcome. Sorry, but just couldn't come back Saturday. Thanks again. Plan on pulling an auto-rotation into San Antoine next year.
Bob Taylor <bobbylee@netnitco.net>
Griffith, IN USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 16:23:42 (MDT)

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Glad to see everyone is still high on the reunion. I've been mowin and washing clothes and getting some rest in between. here's a little joke someone sent me while i was away. A flight attendant was stationed at the departure gate to check tickets. As a man approached, she extended her hand for the ticket, and he opened his trench coat and flashed her. Without missing a beat she said, "Sir, I need to see your ticket, not your stub." .
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 09:49:14 (MDT)

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HELLO TO ALL, FIRST WANT TO THANK RON PAYE FOR THE WONDERFUL COOK OUT HE PUT ON, AND TO THE WELCONE YOU GAVE MY FRIEND, THAT CAME WITH ME THAT THUR NIHGT. HE TOLD ME THAT WAS THE FIRST TIME ANY ONE EVER HUHED HIM AND WELCOMED HIM HOME, AND HE ASKED ME TO THANK YOU ALL FOR MAKING HIM PART OF THE GROUP I ME AND GAIL HAD A GRATE TIME THERE SEEING EVERY ONE AND MEETING NEW BROTHERS AND SISTERS. RANIER AND TO YOUR WIFE DE ME AND GAIL WOUL LOVE TO THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHOWING US A GRATE TIME IN INDY WE THANK YOU SO MUCH, GALE AND DEBBIE THANK YOU FOR TAKING US TO THE ANTIQUE STORE IT WAS THE BIGGEST ONE WE EVER SEEN. ME AND GAIL HAD A GRATE TIME , CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE. OH MARK I ASKED GAIL IF I COULD JUST GET A MOPED SHE TOLD ME YES WHEN I LEARN TO FLY BY MY SELF. SAID I CANT EVEN DRIVE A TRUCK SO I GUESS THAT MEANS NO, BUT IT WAS FUN THANKS; ALVIS IT WAS GOOD TO MEET YOU AND YOUR WIFE TO. FRENCIE IAM GOING TO GET ME ONE OF THOSE THINGS IT WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE A HAND HELD GPS AND MORE I REALY LIKED THAT, I GET ONE SOON. OH MARK I GO BACK TO NAM WHEN YOU GO OK JUST GIVE ME TIME TO GET WHAT I NEED. I WOULD HAVE POSTED EARLY BUT HAD TO DO YARD WORK WE HAD STORMS AND TREE LIMBS DOWN THEN DID HOUSE WORK,BUT AGAIN I THIN THAT WAS A GRATE REIUON CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE GENTLY YOU WERE MISSED BY ALL/ MARK I GOT SOME PIC WHO DO I SEND THEM TO AND DO I SEND AS A ZIP OR A FEW AT A TIME, I KNOW TO SEND AS J PEG , WELL MY BROTHES AND SISTERS IT WAS SO GOOD TO SEE YOU ALL. I WON'T SAY NAMES FOR I MAY LEAVE ONE OUT, OH FRIENCHIE WHEN I GET THAT THING DON'T NE SUPRISED IF I GET YOUR E MAIL AND ASK U FOR YOUR PH # FOR HELP OK ON LOADING IT. AND JIM OLIVER IT WAS GOOD TO SEE YOU MY FRIEND CHRIS TOLD ME TO SAY HELLO TO YOU WELL I GUESS I WENT ON TO MUCH I HOPE THIS MAKES SINCE IT SEEMED TO AS I WROTE IT BE SAFE ALL TAKE CARE A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY (*ALEX I CALL YOU*)
RAY <stilwating@aol.com>
MD USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 09:12:00 (MDT)

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San Antonio Texas is all I know at this time, Animal.I believe it will be the 3rd week of june, but dont bank on that piece of info. Shadow, thank you for identifing those pics for me. DAvis and Lurch,cox and sc?smile, cant remember. Unfortunetly, those print out of the pics and in some one elses hand now, or trashed.Shadow, you havent changed a bit in 3 years,thats a good thing,chuckle.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 08:14:01 (MDT)

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Wow! Sounds like I missed the mother of all reunions. I'm glad everyone had a rewarding time, and am waiting to hear from Smitty when he gets home. Glad you like the Granite plaque Alvis, I would be glad to do one for your roomie's Mom. I also am serious about doing one for all our brothers that didn't make it back. I think the Pop a Top would be a great place to display them, and I'd like to deliver them personally. If you need to contact me, my address is: Greg Henkel, RR2, Box 6260, Pahoa, HI 96778. Phone:(808)965-7899. Maybe the Web Guru could put it in the contacts section. Does anyone know where and when the next gathering will be? I need all the lead time I can get. Aloha Nui Loa, Greg
Animal
Puna, , HI USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 23:46:58 (MDT)

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attention flight, we had a meeting towards the end of the reunion. There were a few things brought to the table.First, we are still working toward getting a tax exempt number towards an acossation (sp). We hope to keep dues betwen 10/25 dollars.Money will go towards maintaining this site, 129th gear( pins, hats,shirts,ect)to be purchased at a reduced cost,perhaps helping animal with the cost of the "stones", and maybe even a news letter once in a blue moon, and we are certianly open to more ideas,in fact,we invite them. it was voted to keep the stones at the "pop".Gentlys keeping of the x mas fund was mentioned in the sprit of kind thanks and apperication.We hold her in the greatest respect. In our 129th meeting, we began it with Mark and Robbie reading the names of the kia's.All of them, every single one of our brothers.Also, we mentioned those that have gone to fiddlers green since returning.Mark has planned( most know this) a trip to nam.If its possable, he wants to have as many 129th folks go also. Not only is it cheaper for those going,it would be safer and have an air of brotherhood.cost of the trip is ( give or take a few hundred bucks),around 2 grand.You will need a passport,visa and 2 shots.Also brought up was the question of adopting a unit in Iraq/ sending mail, ect. that was tabled intill more info is forth comming.May I interject here that my old unit, the 60th ahc,ghostriders,was adopted by a ahc out on fort ? , up in upstate N.Y.They have taken the name and its proud history.Also taked about was way of contacting more members and the gathering of more unit orders( air medals,daily reports,promotion list,ect) towards the goal of getting a list of members of the 129th.( alex has done a great job on this).We only had an hour to cover a vast amout of ground, so all wasnt covered.If you members that werent there,or were there, have more ideas,concerns,questions, please post them.
alvis
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 23:14:04 (MDT)

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animal, the stone keeps comming back into my mind. I will contact you latter, privatly,to inquire about sending a stone to my kia roomates mom in florida. man, thats nice work you do. Your offer to do one for each of our 37 kia's is/was very kind. Personally, it kinda blew me away, thats alot of time, and quality work. Thank you.
alvis
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 22:37:57 (MDT)

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sorry to hear about your grand dad , melody. The big "a" is such a snake.
alvis
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 22:28:01 (MDT)

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Glad a good time was had. We have made the decision for sure that we are moving at the end of July. we'll be living with my grandparents. It seems Alzheimers is really starting its war with him. It has to happen.
Melody
Amarillo, TX USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 21:41:00 (MDT)

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..As Robbie said..WOW!!!!!!!!!!......best gathering yet!!!!!!!!...Smitty told me before we left that if Flame gets home before smitty passes through there he would stop and make a post that he is that far......Spent all day Sunday at the grandkids and did not leave INDY AO until round 6PM.....Hey Baron!!!.. I have to fess up. I couldnt resist and wore your Flight Helmet on the ride home..Cool Man, real cool.......Got lots of looks:*)))). Hope you dont mind. I got to crusin' and the sound of the bike was muffled. It's kinda quite in them helmets. I bet that the sound of my pipes sorta, kinda like maybe sound like the blades. If I wrenched my jaw just right, the right speaker would let some air go through but it sounded like static from the radio. I have heard it before because I have audio tape of cockpit commo......needless to say, as we were rideing home my mind wondered off many times about all of you wearin' the head sets and flying 30 some years ago. Thanks for loaning the Flight Helmet to the Pop-A-Top for a awhile Gary!!!!..Good to meet your brother and best friend also, and tell your mother thanks for the hats. They are cool and the official hat of the 129th now.......Larry Lackey, thanks to the 2 star general R.O.K lighter.....will put it in the Pop-A-Top with the rest. Got 4 lighters from Nam up there now........Brother Robbie, The stones, what can I say. They are beautiful. I will charrish Larry's forever. Dee said that you told her that you have ADD. I can see it in the paint on the stone. You colored the clouds in where there were flaws in the stone. Absolutly beautiful man!!!!!!...Was very good to see you and Mike Solar together in the hospitality room. What a story you two have with the crash..........C.PPPPPPPPP????....was very great to see you at the Pop-A-Top but sure did miss you at INDY. But I do understand. Thanks for coming to the Pop-A-Top........Smitty. Dee and I and our daughter Ambie Rain that was here are still laughing about you one liners. Hey, did any body else see Smitty do his dance step?...me and Dee and Pete did. I can see why he only did it in the Hall way. If he would of dance like that on the dance floor he would of been mawled by all the ladies:-)))))))))...Speaking of dancing. Goerge Scott and his wife were not seen all day Saterday or at the dance?.....does anybody know what happened to them. Goerge in a dance instructor and said he was gonna kick up a storm at the dance, but I didnot see them after Friday night. Goerge you out there?...what happened to you?????..Flame......what a pleasure to see you and you wife again......Kal....you guys also......Pete......Alton.......always a pleasure......WINK....what can I say......for those who did not make the reunion...there was a gathering going on close to where the 129th was, and Barry mugged so lady and took fifty dollars from her. Madder of fact, I think he mugged more then just one because just about ever lady that came out of that room said that they had lost 50 bucks..Barry, Barry, barry!!!!!!nick, nich, nich!!!!!!!.....Hey Iron Butterfly.HE,HE,HE,HE,HE,HE,HE,HE,HE,HE,HE, Art..........Glad that you got some things clear up and will look for that After Action report you are looking for.Mr Paye......JOB WELL DONE!.....On that new job of yours, if in this AO, check into the Hotel Jackson. Designed to acomidate worn out Cobra pilots and crew members. Always got a hot, and a cot for you. That goes for anybody in this AO......John Ushrey. Was really great to meet you. The more I get to know the ones that knew Larry, the closer I get to him!!!!........Thanks for coming John. We live to close to each other not to see more of each other. Tom P......THANKS for all that you did to make the reuinon mkore of a success......was a pleasure to see you again........Matt Casey. So gald you made it to INDY...was a real pleasure seeing you again and glad that things are good for you..take care brother. Lee Wood....really great to see you also. Again Lee we too live to close together to not see more of each other..........A special thanks to all the ladies. Where would we be with out them!!!!!...by the way.....there were some moons out during the photo shoot, but it was cloud and there did not show through!!!!!!Ladies!!!!..I was shocked;)))) Jim Oliver and Frenchie. Great time and lots of fun..........Jim. I got the plan to mount to Tail Rotor Pedals. Just have to get them chromed and keep that dame spare bed room clean. I got them takin' away from me again. Dang it man!!!!!!!!!Dee is a slave driver!!!!Rainer and Dee.......So great to see you guys.....next trip to INDY, will come and visit!!!!!!!....J.W Wilson.......You mild mannered, soft spoken man you.....Glad to see you there........Ray and Gail.Always a pleasure to see you. Hope you got your heart back Ray after the Harley ride!!!!....Jim nad Sue......very nice to meet you guys and glad that you had a great time............Dang.....I know that I am forgeting some body....Kristina. Thanks for all the help being my "PIN" gal with the maps and the 129th Flag Hanging!!!!!.....actually, I think it was Kristaina that mugged to ladys of their 50 bucks and she blamed it on her dad!!!!!!......Alex, can you put up a morning report to get the correct names of all the attended?.........best go for now.........nuff said!!!!......miss thouse who could not make it, but there is always the next time..thanks for being our friends....HEY, DID I TELL YOU ALL THAT I LOVED YOU TODAY???? I LOVE YOU!!!!....always a brother and sister, Mark and Dee
Mark and Dee
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 20:50:24 (MDT)

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Love it, love it, love it!!!! Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 14:35:39 (MDT)

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I am glad to hear that everyone has made it home safely and for Smitty "Are you there yet?". Alvis it was nice seeing you again and meetinng your lovely wife Susan. I can't remember the names but I know all the faces and will try to see you all next year. I will bring my gas mask next year, Pete Rhome and Darwin know what I am talking about. Alex, you take care of that foot. Baron and Rick again be sure to tell your mother THANK YOU and it was nice seeing so many people who was in VietNam the same time I was. Wink as we both discovered "A mind is a terrible thang" but you already knew that. By the way I missing $50 have you seen it. JW, Jim Oliver and Frenchie I was glad to see you guys made safely. I had real foogy weather going thru the mountains near AsheVille. Everybody take care.
Shadow
Columbia, SC USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 14:21:44 (MDT)

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A blast from the past!!! We had so many first time attendees to the reunion it was very overwhelming. The week went by entirely too fast as we enjoyed the company of our brothers and sisters of the 129th and the other VHCMA families. Liz & I would like to thank Ron Paye from the bottom of our hearts for the cookout and limo service that he provided for all. Ron, we hope to be able to repay the hospitality if you ever get to Memphis (Collierville, TN).. Thanks again! Gale, the phone number you found in your pocket was the number for the "limo driver"!!! Jim and Sue H., Mike & Darlene S., Larry Lackey, Fred & Sue A., (15 minutes at Louisville doesn't count, so you are a newbee this year)., John Usrey, Gary Carlison, George Scott, Robert Taylor, Art & Linda B., and the remaining ones that did not sign the attendee book, we were thrilled to have all of you attend for the first time and hope to see everyone in San Antonio. Funny how we have only been home a day and we are already planning for San Antonio!!! Jim Oliver, it was great to see you again and spend some time sharing memories and cool breezes!!! Wink, what can we say, except you got us again!! The reunion would not be complete without you!! Please tell Kristina how much we enjoyed her being there also as she adds beauty to the "beast"!! We love you both. Kal & Shirley, it was great to see you both again also. Lee & Carolyn, what can we say, except keep that helicopter pin close to your heart and know that your brothers and sisters care. Jim Westwang, Alton Page, Pete Rhome, Rick England, Matt Casey, Tom Pedersen, Darwin & Cheryl S., Gale & Debbie B. it was a reunion filled with wonderful memories. Mark & Dee thanks for your continued support and we hate we did not make the mini reunion in Coldwater, but due to the foot, we were confined to not doing much, but did enjoy visiting with everyone. Ray & Gail G., you two are special friends and it was so nice to see you enjoy yourself with your extended family of 129ther's. Ray, I plan to contact the VA over the next few weeks. Thanks for the support. Robbie R., the grandchildren are growing up fast!!! The rocks you did were wonderful and are very much appreciated! Thanks!!! Also don't forget to forward the information to Liz. Hopefully she can get it to the right people for you. Rainer & Dee, what can we say, except THANK YOU for being such good friends. Your hospitality will not be forgotten as you went above and beyond for us. To Gently and everyone that did not make this reunion, you all were missed very much. Take care as we each slowly wind down from the natural high of the "Indy Reunion". Alex
Alex & Liz <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 14:10:09 (MDT)

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WHEW!! Thanks Sue H....that was driving me crazy. I'm glad someone still has their memory.:o)) Judith, we really missed you & Joe!! Oh yeh Judith, Rons party was a success even tho you tried to ruin it.....how mean!! lol. Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 13:14:52 (MDT)

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lol......Gale, the phone number for Don Dalton was for the limo service. Gosh, glad my mind isn't the only one slipping. Can't believe Judith and Joe were only 25 miles from our house........so near and yet so far.........as we were in Indianapolis. Jim & I traveled 1142 miles but the trip went well and I got to nap on the way home! So much going on at the reunion that one could hardly keep up it all. So good to put faces to the names we've been reading about for so long. Alex, hope to hear soon that they figured out that foot problem!
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 12:42:05 (MDT)

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This years Reunion was the best I have been to. Spent a very memorable night with a bunch of Jim’s extended family at a hotel. We had never even met these people next thing I know they were telling me all there problems. Most of them are related. I think that what Jim said was correct” you could give those people in Kentucky a million dollars and they would still live in a trailer. Jim and I were right at 1000 Miles when we got to Pop A Top. No one knew we would be there, so we got to surprise everone. I couldn’t possibly thank Mark (Like a brother I never had) and Dee (What A Sweetie) enough for their hospitality and kindness. The Museum at The Pop A Top was more than I had expected. All items were given the respect that they deserved. You could just feel the love in the place. As Mark said more than once, “the place was an extension of his living room”. Back at Mark’s place the companionships were so thick you couldn’t cut it with a knife. JW. , Pete Rhome, Robbie Robinson, Jim Oliver, " Smitty " Westwang, Kal Bergstrome, and Gary Carlson, showed up a little later. What a blast to see all these guys bonding. It was so cool to see Smitty find out who the other Pilot was (Gary Carlson ) that had to help him drag that fat ass deer they had shot into the helicopter. Trying to stay behind 6 motorcycles with a Mini-van while traveling in downtown traffic was a thrill I won’t soon forget. Thanks for doing some blocking tactics Pete. I don’t know how the hell JW stayed up with us in his Toyota truck. Ron Paye, what can I say. I can’t believe what en incredible host he was. Anyone that has had a large party like that knows what stress it is to do. Ron succeeded with out flinching. What a GUY… And then thinking that there were people that might be stuck with no ride , what does he do? He makes a limo available. A thanks just doesn’t do it. We love ya man. Oh Got to go. Will post more later. Frenchie
Frenchie 68-69 <Frenchie745@(RemoveThis).comcast.net>
Sugar town, Ga USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 12:18:15 (MDT)

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awaiting Smitty's posting to know he made it home safely
alvis
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 12:14:03 (MDT)

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Geez.....I just sigh when I read the posts about the re-union. I'm so glad so many went... and C.P.!!!!! Sounds like all had a safe and wonderful time-as is to be expected!!! Robbie, I take back saying you were "bad luck" :>))) you got the heuy! Can't beat that kind of luck. How did the POW-MIA ceremony go? Melody, the photos didn't get passed around, please forgive me. Smitty was going to take them with him when he left my house on his way to the re-union, but I forgot to slip them in his back pack. I owe you my friend....and i will somehow make it up to you. C.P.!!!! Damn! Keep Smitty in your prayers while he continues on his journey home. Time to think about Kokomo. Love and miss you all. Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 11:20:11 (MDT)

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Wow, what a Reunion this was. As everyone else, i thank Ron Paye for the spread he put on at his house and the phone booth cleaner and also for mailing my "C" model Slick to me that i won in a raffle. Who said i was bad luck? It was great seeing old and new attendee's there. Always good to see my former gunner Ray Gagner and his wife Gail. I was so glad to see Mike Solar and his wife Darlene there. I think i hugged him more times than my first wife. Frenchie and Pete and I had a good time down at the museum and the waffle house. Frenchie kept me laughing almost all of the time i was there. Mark and Dee, thanks for your hospitality and all that you do. Kal, it was good riding with you again. Smitty, I can't believe how far you went on your trip to the reunion. Pete and I left Indy at 8:45 Sunday, and i arrived home at 11:30 the same day. Wow was my ass sore. I hope everyone made it home ok, and i'm going to need as much info as i can get to send the remaining rocks to families of our KIA's. I'll put the names in on another post. On a final note, I was the recepient of the generosity of all the 129th members and others who contributed to the christmas fund. I was hesitant to come to the reunion because of losing my job last November. Judith kept pushing me to accept this generous gesture and i kept telling her i thought there was someone more deserving than myself. I thank all of those who made it possible for me to be at the reunion and i love all you guys..(and gals). My trip was a total of 1309 miles.......I'm glad i didn't give Shadow my huey to send to me because as we discussed he would probably have sent it in time for the next reunion. Hope everyone is well.......Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 10:00:50 (MDT)

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To all my Brothers & Sisters of the 129th, Judith had kept a big secret from me that she shared with all of you. We really wanted to attend the reunion in Indy this past weekend. However, Judith had worked very hard in getting letters of support for me being nominated for the Wisconsin Vietnam Veteran of the year. Well as I found out you all knew. I did not know until Satuday evening at the State VVA Awards Banquet in Wausau, WI. I am humble and honored to be the recipient. It is because of the Love and Brotherhood that I have grown to know and respect with all of you and my fellow Vets that allowed this to even be possible. My sincerest thank you and appreciation to Judith "Gently" Singer for her "Always there for the Vets". May the Good Lord continue to Bless her and all our Veterans, Families and Friends. With Love, Apprecaiton and Respect to all of you. "WELCOME HOME" Your Brother Joe Campbell
Joe Campbell <vva324jfc@aol.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 08:52:55 (MDT)

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Kal, glad you made it home ok. Enjoyed spending time with you & Shirley again. I plan on seeing "YOU" in Kokomo. Gale
Gale
USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 08:37:58 (MDT)

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Flight, Still trying to unwind from the last few days. There's so many names & faces & conversations bouncing around in my head................talk about a "natural high"!! Jim & Sue Hydinger, what a pleasure to see Jim again after 36 years and to meet you. We also had a great time with you two and Ray & "GAIL". Thad Czuba showed up at the party Friday night and about blew my mind. We were in the same "hootch" & maint.team most of the time. A lot of new faces...too many for me to mention right now. Mark & Dee were the center of attention....as usual. How could they not be after all they've done for us. Alex & Liz, thanks! Ron Paye, thanks to you for not "mooning". (LOL) What can we say about this guy that wasn't already said over the weekend!? Great food & drink, great family gathering, great hospitality, great limo and just all around great friend & brother........we love ya Man!!! I hope everyone is getting home safely and planning for next year. One more thing, I found this name & phone number written on Adams Mark stationary in my pocket.I realize my minds slipping & I may have had a few beers, but, I cannot remember who give it to me or what it's about....HELP. (Don Dalton, 281-9492) Clear, Gale
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 08:35:31 (MDT)

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WOW!!, another great reunion!! Had a nice 3 hour ride home with no problems. Everyone but Smitty should be home by now and I hope his ride is going well. As Sue and Jim stated, from the cookout to signout all went well. Next year in San Antonio I hope to be seeing all you folks the wished you were with us this year. Take care all... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu (at) email . com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 08:20:37 (MDT)

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Just returned from attending our first 129th reunion and we are really glad we went. It seemed only fitting that as we pulled up under the canopy of the hotel, the first couple we saw as we got out of the van were Dee and Mark Johnson who welcomed us with open arms. We had never met prior to that. Not having attended before, we weren’t sure what to expect, but after such a warm and welcome greeting, we knew we were in for a great time. We went into the entryway of the hotel, and the next person we ran into was Alex Fernwalt and again we were welcomed and warmly greeted. (Liz was just as friendly when she arrived.) Shortly after that Gale and Debbie Beard welcomed us, and although the guys look a little different in my eyes from when they served together, they swear they would have recognized each other anywhere. lol Gale, Alex and Jim all served together in ’66/’67 so it was especially nice that they connected right away. We want to thank Ron Paye for hosting the barbecue and all the work that went into it. Such an informal gathering really made it easy to meet people and get acquainted. The food was great and the camaraderie the frosting on the cake! Thanks, too, to Gale and Debbie for taking us antiquing. What a fun afternoon at Gilley’s! I’m hopeful that Mike and Darlene Solar have found the site and it is a blessing for them. We could go on and on, but even as newbies, it was, as Alvis said, a “comfortable, accepting” place to be. Thanks for everyone who made sure we felt welcome and made our weekend great!
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 21:23:29 (MDT)

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I ask Larry Lakee to post when he returns to south georgia.I know that there where 5 of us that where in Tom's time frame at the reunion, perhaps more.Alton Page (shadow), Gary carlton ( cobra Baron),Larry Lakee( a pilot),Jim Westwang ( smitty) and myself.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 11:27:51 (MDT)

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Brothers Sounds like all is going great. You all have a safe trip to your homes. Sorry I couldnt make it this year.I have, just a few days ago ,been able to contact a brother who was there in 70 he was an engine mec.We were friends and have been catching up via the phone. His name is Dan Blasko,maybe some of you remember him ,it was great to talk with him.We are going to do our best to try and make the next reunion and I think we will make it.Again have a safe trip home. Your Brother George
george marshall
USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 09:59:14 (MDT)

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Thanks, Alvis, for all your consideration of my desire to get any pictures of Tom that might be out there. He had only been in country for about three months before his fatal crash at An Khe and had not purchased a camera right away so we have very few pics at home. How do I find Larry Lakee's e-mail address? I hope all the reunion folks travel home safely loaded down with warm memories and rekindled hearts. Especially you, Jim W., as you mount your Harley for the long road west. Tom's Ann
Ann Buslee <abuslee@centurytel.net>
Ladysmith, WI. USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 08:32:00 (MDT)

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Katharine, your wishes were observed, you werent forgotten.Gale and I,after the "other" minute of silance, got together and repeated the " Kokomo".I know you will understand that which we did yesterday and in kokomo.You to Gently.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 07:53:01 (MDT)

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I believe 27, 129thers were in attendance at this reunion.Its great to put a face on the folks that have posted here...and their lovely wives.With a certian sadness in my heart, I shook hands and hugged each,upon my departing.I made ,truely, new friends and I know it sounds impossable,but my respect for these men grew to new hights.At the reunion friday night, there was a room ,and a time, set aside for poetry reading. yawn, booring ,right? Indeed, I was astounded by the depth of some of these folks talent,words and emontions put to pen and paper. The subject matter were of things we all know, haven been taught, experinced or dreamed. The fellowship, friendship,aceptance in the 129th room was almost thick enough to cut with a knife.Sadly, I am not a good enough "wordsmith" to discribe these past 5 days.The only word I can come up with is "comfortable".I speak of the soul,of the atmosphere, not the chairs, nor beds.At my first reunion in Louisville,I stayed oly about 15 minutes,b4 the emotions overwhelmed me and I left to return home.None of that was present for me this time,it was like putting your foot into an old and oh so comfortable and favorite shoe. i ENCOURAGE YOU,those who havent yet attended a reunion, to put your toe into the water, you will find it warm and welcoming.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 07:43:52 (MDT)

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Larry Lakee has 2, 1972 unit albums.One seems to have been taken much earlier than the other. One (the light blue one) has the pic of T. Shaw. You have a copy of that pic.I returned to late to review the albums once more,as the 129th room had been displaced for the dinner dance room. I told Larry Lackee of your wishes and ask him to contact you if futher pics are found.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 06:59:15 (MDT)

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If any of you at the reunion read this before it's over, please ask around and see if anyone remembers Lt. Thomas Wallace, and has any info on contacting him, or knows where he was from, etc. I crewed for him in '66-'67, and have been searching for him for years. Thanks. Max
Max
USA - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 23:59:13 (MDT)

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Hey all you folks that aren't here are missing a good one!! The Mini at the Pop-A-Top went very well. Ron Paye had a great cookout for us all in Indy. The showing of "The Shadow of the Blade" last night was awsome!!.. So, all in all if YOU aren't here your missing a great show.. Take care.. C U... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu (at) email . com>
At the Reunion, IN USA - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 10:13:44 (MDT)

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There is a least one pic of T. Shaw in the book I saw.I have seen the pic b4 tho, will look to see if there are other pics. Forgive my writting today, I found a keg of some very excellent dark beer,around 3 pm. I left at mid night.Many more showed up as friday wore on,those who lived within driving distance but couldnt spend the weekend.I didnt get a count, but its more 129thers than I have ever seen.the full spectrum of years were represented, from 65 till late 72., gotta go take smitty to the post office,all take care.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 07:06:14 (MDT)

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I hope everyone is having a great time. I am missing all. My family reunion is great. Seeing family I haven't seen for a few years. But I do wish I were with you guys. Remember Michael in all you do. Have a safe trip home. Welcome Home and Thanks for all you did.
Katharine
USA - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 05:53:01 (MDT)

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...All is going real well at the reunion. Pretty over whelming for me this year. Lots of old faces and many new also. I think 4 or 5 that new Larry. Wow!!!!..missing those that could not make it. As Alvis reported, was a great time at Ron's last night....Dee and I are shuttling back and for from the daughters house to the hotel on the Harley. ...Gobs and gobs of photos to look at this year in the hospitality room. ..ANIMAL, THANK YOU VERY MUCH for "THE STONE"....and I love the idea of making and bringing the other ones you want to make to the reunion every year. The one you made this year is absolutely beautiful and priceless. Gonna put a picture of it on the web site for all to see.....best get ta bed...Gonna have the group photo tomorrow. Hope it will be clear weather. Just in case the moons want to come out ;-))))))....take care all and GOD BLESS...always a brother, Mark
Pop-A-TopII at Grandkids house in INDY
USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 23:51:31 (MDT)

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Hope everyone is has a great time this weekend...hopefully I can make another reunion again in the future ... Wells
Dave Wells
Roswell, GA USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 22:04:21 (MDT)

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Just arrived home from the family reunion that prevented me from attending yours. I'm heartsick to think that Jim Westwang was unable to connect with Tom Shaw's family. Poor communication on our part. The last entry stated that there was a 1972 photo album...My husband, Tom, died on Apr. 27, 1972 . I wonder who has the album and if there are any pics of Tom? How many attending the reunion mught have been in Nam in '72? I hope that your time together in Indy is memorable. I look forward to joining you next year! Ann
Ann Buslee <abuslee@centurytel.net>
Ladysmith, WI. USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 21:15:57 (MDT)

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reunion goes well, lots of 129th folks, gunners, crew chiefs and pilots.Animal, we had the presentation of the "stone" at about 5 pm yesterday, lots of oohs and ahhs.Lots of pics abound with a 1972 unit album being present.Almost all 129th personel attended Ron's bbq. Yes, of course it started raining just as the food was ready.Raineer, his lovely wife Debbie,Rick,his friend Tino and myself took cover under a very nice maple tree, while the others opted for more dryer conditions, inside.Ron put on one heck of a spread, thank you sir. The hotel bound folks are touring the speed way this morning, hope the weather holds off for them. Am going to try to take smitty,and anyone else that wants to go, shooting today.Met lots of wives, wonderful folks they are,thank you for being there and putting up with us vets. Gently, we missed you and joe.Shadow missed the bbq,he got in a little late.Numbers? gosh, i didnt count, but bet there is 15 or 20 of us so far, plus loved ones.
alvis
USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 06:05:41 (MDT)

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...GOOD MORNING VIETNAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.....checkin' in from LZ COLDWATER......WOW!!!!!!!.What can I say.......JW. WILSON , Pete Rhome, Robbie Robinson, Jimm Oliver, Bill French, Jim " Smitty " Westwang, Kal Bergstrome, all stayed at LZ Jackson's last night, and Gary Carlson and his brother and best friend stopped in and then head to near by Celina for a room and will be in INDY today. C.P. Bloomfield, and Gale Beard also showed up at the Pop-A-Top yesterday........we are gearin' up in our fullbattle rattle and will be headed out for LZ INDY in a bit's.....all is fine. Long talk into the night last night.........all are caffined up. Pete is puttin' another pot on now......Lilly and Ambie Rain brought rolls over this mornin'.........I as as exccited as a kid on Christmas morning. We will be in INDY earling afternoon today..........WOW....what a blessing to be among this men.....I am honored.....FRED A.....Smitty says to be and sure and tell you that you better be at the LZ in INDY after he rode all this way to see you that if not he is gonna kink your butt....He is kinda grumpy this mornin' after sleepin' in the granddaughters crib last night;-))))........I love you guys.....hey you all will have to check out my new cruise pegs on the Harley that Jim O brought me from his home.....just what a 129th Harley needsI cdant belive I have riddin' with out them all this time......God bless you all and be with you as you travel today to INDY....See ya there.....Break left....LZ INDY.....doin' an AGL in to in, have LZ in Sight........Pop smoke to let us know where to drop pacs off..............Always a brother and sister, mark and DEE...
Mark Jackson
USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 07:21:51 (MDT)

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thats great news Don.Prayers said for speedy recovery. Animal....WOW, nice work.Since i couldnt make it to the "pop",I grabed susan and headed back to the hotel with the package.I couldnt open it,BArry saved the day with a box cutter.Raineer,Berry and I decided not to leave it for Mark to find,we will have a little presentation then give it to him.Dont want to go into futher detail now,cant spoil the surprise. Great work! Seems the "CAV" has edged us out in people attending,but the fat lady hasnt started singing yet.
alvis
USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 05:36:36 (MDT)

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George Marshal, I am sorry that I did not get back to you sooner. I talked to my dad however, and he told me that he got everything squared away with you. If you need to get a hold of me my e-mail address is ragonese@delaware.net and my dad's is lourags1@aol.com. I can be reached at 302-678-4949. Anyone can feel free to call or e-mail either one of us, dad and I conversate pretty often but he only has time on Saturdays and Sundays to check e-mails. I hope everyone had a good time at the reunion.
Tom Ragonese
USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 23:55:55 (MDT)

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Evening Flight, just thought I would say thanks to everyone for the cards and prayers. we finally got the insurance company to wake up and see what was going on, Donna had her surgery Monday after being in the hospital since Wednesday. the surgery was 8 1/2 hours long. it took 5 1/2 hours just to remove the infected graft. she is still in ICU but doing fine they are removing tubes one at a time. when I saw her Monday night when she got to ICU she looked like back of my stereo, only I think she had MORE wires and tubes hooked up to her than my stereo has. it was really hard seeing her like that but I guess it is the end results that counts. she should be moving to a room tomorrow. anyway that is the latest from here.......... everyone have a great and safe time in Indy. I WANT TO HEAR STORIES ............ LOL Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms , AZ USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 22:20:51 (MDT)

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rick had trouble at the airport and i wasnt there till 5.cant find anyone to go with me.Met alex,rick,flame and a pilot (forgot his name) already.sorry to hear the news gently.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 17:54:20 (MDT)

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Joe and I will not make it to the BBQ at Ron's house. Things just didn't work out. When you have one for Matt(Happy Birthday MATT!!!!!) have one for me. Everybody be careful but have fun! Can 't wait to see the photos and hear the stories! With a wink-Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 14:22:50 (MDT)

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To all thoughs who will be at the POP today, please feel free to have one for me, I wish I could be their to help you celibrate my birthday, but I will be thinking of you all........Tails Clear Left......Casey
Matt Casey
Hemet , CA USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 10:21:58 (MDT)

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Well gang, it is 6:30 and the excitement has got me up early.. We will be on the road a little early as we are stopping in Fort Wayne, Ind. for a new tire for Smitty's bike which should take abt 1 1/2 hours. Then the final leg to LZ Pop-A-Top.. Everything lookin good!!.. Hey Gale, we will be lookin for ya... Glad you could come.. Yall take care and We'll C U L8r.. Kal...>>>
Kal 67/68 <n8auu (at) email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 04:40:33 (MDT)

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Ron came by work tonight. He wont be at the "pop".Looking forward to meeting many at the cook out at his house thursday evening.I am trying to talk Susan into making some "aussie dish" that they usually take to a cook out .She doesnt get off till 6 pm so we will be alittle late in arriving.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 22:44:11 (MDT)

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Kal, ...and where there's bulls, there's "@#$$ ^*##@&" :o))) You guys be careful out there! For any of you who have'nt been to "Pop A Top"... Weds morning I'll be in the hotel lobby about 8:00 am (Indy time) It'll be a quick trip: 2 hours there / short visit / 2 hours back. I can carry 3-4 more. Clear, Gale
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 15:11:43 (MDT)

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Hey Gang.... Smitty is here and breakfast was good!!! The bulls are running... Well will be Coldwater bound in the morning... B Cn U....>>> Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu (at) email.com>
St Joseph , MI USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 08:17:16 (MDT)

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Hydingers are on their way! Indianapolis or bust! Sue & Jim H.
Sue & Jim H.
USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 08:09:28 (MDT)

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Flight: Well hope all you Dad's had a wonderful Father's Day. Missed Capt. Jack Alexander, he was off this weekend. I did call him at work in Cleveland Ohio. Didn't want to bother him at work. Got, Liz off to New York early this morning and she will meet me in Indy Weds. night. Ranier is picking me at the airport tomorrow. Bad Luck has hit a few of our Brothers and Sisters. As I repoted last week Sam and Sharon Hennesse's house was flooded due to all the rain. Glenn Pearmain was in a accident last Friday. A semi-truck ran him off the road. Totaled his Chevy pick up. Glenn was shaken and sore but, was able to walk away. The lord was looking after him. Jim W. glad your ride has been a good one. You,Kal,Robbie and Pete becareful on the road to the Pop-A-Top. Sorry I will miss that little reunion.I think Pete live about an hour from Barberton,Ohio. But, don't have a phone number to get in contact with him. Alvis, thanks for the weather report. The hot weather people like me, will know to have a jacket. Saturday evening when arriving hee in Ohio it was about 50. I had plenty of colthes for the 80&90 temps. Had to buy a light weight jacket to stay warm out in the evening hours. Take care my Brothers and Sisters see you in INDY!!!! Alex PS. If any one need to contact me. My cell is 901-487-0374
Alex
USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 08:09:12 (MDT)

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thanks for the rider updates, this is cool. lz pop a top is tomorrow,lz indy is 2 days away, getting twitchy here. chuckle. will telephone Ron today from work.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 06:13:18 (MDT)

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weather update for indy. sunshine wensday and thursday (day).perhaps rain thursday night, friday into early saterday morn. temps ..highs in the low to mid 70s.lows mid 50s. fuel yesterday was $1.68 a gallon at the cheap outlets. Good riding to you 2 wheeled brothers.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 05:49:38 (MDT)

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Leaving in the morning for Indy. Please put us (2) down for the get togeather at Ron's. See you all later.
Flame
USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 21:05:01 (MDT)

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Update on Smitty...It is 9:35 now and he called at 9.. Well, he isn't going to make it here tonight. He said it was dry when he left Traverscity.. But then it opened up and he got soaked. He stopped in Holland, MI and is going to spend the night there. He said he will hit the road agn at abt 7 in the morning. It is only abt a hour=- from here and we will have breakfast when he gets here. So, yall take care.. B Cn ya... Kal...>>>
Kal <n8auu (at) email.com>
St Joseph, MI USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 19:39:55 (MDT)

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OK Fine Robbie... It had been raining here and has just quit. Smitty may be in rain as he comes down my way but it should be moving out of here. We will probably try to be at the PAT about the same time you are.. B Cn U... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu (at) email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 17:02:50 (MDT)

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Kal, Jim, Sue, Mark and other interested parties, Pete and I should be arriving at the Pop-A-Top around 1pm. I'm packing now and hoping I don't forget anything. They're calling for rain in the morning here. I Hope everyone is doing good..... Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 16:02:13 (MDT)

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Fred, wonderful memorial to your dad. Thank you for sharing it. Katherine-you will be missed...but Kokomo is just around the corner:>). Smitty left this morning around 3. His boat leaves harbor at 1 this afternoon but he was so worried about missing it he could n't sleep, so he got up and left. From my house to the harbor is about a two hour ride. I wonder what our man is going to do for the six hours he has to wait. LOL!!! We had a great visit, and as my fellow VVA Chapter friend and member John Morgan, said, Jim helped us work a fund raiser at an air show on Sunday. I gave him a job sitting in the sun all day. Pretty easy. So, after we baked in the sun all day we went out for dinner and then crashed. He's looking forward to seeing all of you and is very excited about meeting Fred Alvis again after 30 plus years. What a re-union for you two Fred!!! How exciting and beautiful! Therest of Smitty's trip is up to you guys on the next leg of his journey. Take care of him, and you all drive carefully getting to the Pop and then to Indy. Hope to see you at Ron's on Thrusday afternoon-early evening. Hope. Holdong your hands-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 07:07:43 (MDT)

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Thanks. I knew I could count on you.
Katharine
USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 05:05:06 (MDT)

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roger that Gale. Kathrine, we got your sixer.
alvis
USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 04:19:04 (MDT)

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Katharine, sorry to hear that you can't make it to Indy. We understand that sometimes there's other commitments. Don't worry 'bout the prayers for Michael..........Alvis & I have ya covered. ;o) See you in Kokomo. Gale
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 20:48:26 (MDT)

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Just a note to let all know I will not be in Indy this year as I had hoped. I have known this for a while but was hoping to be able to work something out. It is not my job that is keeping me from you by my other family. We are holding a huge family reunion on that weekend. It starts on Friday night and last until Sunday. I really would like to be able to attend both but my mother and dad really want all of their children to be at the family reunion. I am between a rock and a hard place. I must choose my mother and dad. They are both elderly and this may be the last family reunion we will have with both of them still alive. I will miss all very much. I will see everyone in Kokomo who will be there. Remember me when you have the prayer services and remember Michael Shanley. One of your true family members. I always remember him. Every one take care, be careful, have a great time. With thanks and appreciation for all you did. Welcome home to all.
Katharine
USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 19:29:39 (MDT)

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Met Jim Westwang at the Southeast Wisconsin Airfest held in West Bend, WI on Sunday, June 20th. He was with Judith Singer and Joe Campbell; he help our Chapter (VVA Milwaukee Chapter 324) out at the Airfest. What a nice guy. We talk about motorcycles, out kids, etc. Judith said "hello".
John Morgan
Milwaukee, WI USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 17:07:26 (MDT)

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Wednesday is coming. Kal, Robbie, and everyone...I'll probably be seeing you all at Pop-A-Top. I look forward to meeting you and at such an awesome place. Was hoping to make it to Indy, but plans got changed. So...Wednesday will be a good substitute. By the way, Happy Father's Day to all you dads.
Sue
CELINA, OH USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 14:57:55 (MDT)

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Alvis: Thanks for the post. Joe C and Gently: My Grandfather the late Ernest G. Henkel of Shorewood was a past state commander of the Wisconsin VFW. He was in WW1 and in Mexico with Gen Pershing chasing Pancho Villa around.("Badges? We don't need no stinking badges!") My Dad was a WW2 veteran with the courage to marry a Woman who outranked him.(My Mom was an Army nurse) Anyway, happy father's day to the Dad's reading this. Dave P: It was great meeting your Mom and Dick. They'll have some fabulous adventures to share with you soon..........Aloha, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 13:46:48 (MDT)

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Happy Fathers day to all you dads out there!!.. Darn Alvis, you got me again!!.. I must be a pretty emotional guy as I had tears flowing again today. I read the VHCMA newsletter at work last night and the story about escorting the body home took a long time to read as I couldn't see thru the tears..WOW!!!... At times, Alvis, I wonder why you aren't a rich and famous author. I must admit that you do have a way with words... Thanks for the update Joe. Good to hear that Smitty is making progress. I will be looking for him Monday evening. Now... Just thinking that a week from now Indy will be over.. Hey, take care and we will be together soon!!.. Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu(at)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 12:40:46 (MDT)

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Flight:Well Liz and I made to Barberton, Ohio. A little bumpy ride on the small prop plane from Detroit to Akron Canton. We were having 90 plus temps in Tenn. But, was in shock with the 60 high temp yesterday and a low in the 40's. Had to buy a jacket for Liz and myself. Smitty glad you have had a safe ride so far. You and the rest of our Brothers becareful on your ride into Indy. Hope all of you Happy Father's Day. Take Care and you see you all in Indy. Will arrive Weds. afternoon. Alex
Alex
USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 09:23:43 (MDT)

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Muscogee county airport, july of 1971.With the bustle of the airport,even mid sized town airports,I got in line to recieve my ticket for Ft. Lewis , Washington.They day had arrived,we all knew it was comming, the day I left for Vietnam.With me were my Mom and Dad,my other older brother out somewhere,proably being henpecked by his beatiful blond wife. As time wore on,the lines got shorter and the hub bub of the lobby got louder. We sat off to the side, watching other soliders catch flights home. The place was close to fort Benning and it was war time. We chatted about many things,my folks and myself, never bringing up the subject we all saw on television each night. My time arrived, time to line up with the other passengers on the tarmack. My folks were saying .please write us often and please take care.They knew that I had diliberatly chosen one of the most dangerous jobs in vietnam, to fly as a crew member on a slick. My father wasnt much of an emotional man,except for anger he expresed at me for many of my boyhood misdeeds. h was a retired drill sargent,a veteran of ww2 and korea. Little did I know that he knew exactly what was in store for me,not necesaryily the war,but the life time afterward dealing with what I had seen.lost,and done.Standing in line,with the smeel of exhuast for turbine engines in the air, the wind form taxing aircraft, we said our good bys. I hugged my crying mother and then turned to my father.At 6 foot, I towered above his slight,5' 7" frame. He stuck out his hand, man to man. For the first time ever, I saw a tear in his wrinkled,worn face,his grey steely eyes.His youngest child was now a man, and was he ever so proud of me. I was accepted into his close circle of peers, I could see in his eyes, for the first time ever, A proudness and love that he had never expressed to me in my short, self indulgent life. That was the greatest gift he ever gave me, that look and the hand shake, that tear in his eye. With parting words, he said" take care and write your mother". Dad died in 1976, alone, in a veterans hospital. I never got to know him,as an adult.I never got to say..thanks dad, I love you. Happy fathers day,dad,I will see you at fiddlers green. alvis vietnam 71/72
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 07:44:44 (MDT)

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Thanks for the update Joe,I read with great interest. Again, congrads on the recognition you deserve.
ALVIS
USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 06:41:21 (MDT)

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To our 129th Family. Just a brief note to let you know that our Brother Jim Westwing has arrived safely in MIlwaukee tonight and is enjoying all the sights and food that Judith and I can provide. Jim rode his Harley 600 miles today and will take a short rest before he continuse his journey to Indy. We made a special stop at the Vietnam Memorial on Milwaukee's lakefront and paused for a prayer for all our brothers with a special moment at our 129th Brother Tom Shaw.s Memorial Brick. God Bless You All and Good Noght. Brother Joe
Joe Campbell <vva324jfc@aol.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 20:50:29 (MDT)

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George, I remember the tail rotor accident......I left in Dec. 1970. Sorry, I do not recall the other ones.....I think, I recall something about a first shirt getting it.... Sorry George, It's been a long time. Is there any way you can send me the doc's that you have via e-mai
Roger Strong <kclambfarm@valornet.com>
Tulsa, OK USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 19:37:06 (MDT)

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Alvis Thanks again you have been a great help as others have.I will check it out .I am still trying to get in touch with Jeff who works at the VA.All take care. george
george marshall
USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 14:00:29 (MDT)

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george, try around march 11 going back at least thru march 6th. I just checked,( kinda quickly) and saw a few notations on the incidents. I didnt look thourghly. good luck hunting, but its all there.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 08:33:18 (MDT)

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thats great news about smitty. George, if you scour the previous post from months ago,or more, you will find discusions about all the things you stated.You will also find the names of those who remembered them and their names/ addys.They may be angry at me and my mouth and arent posting anymore, but they are good guys and will help you both , if they do indeed, have knowledge of the incidents.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 07:45:27 (MDT)

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FYI Jim Westwang maed it my home all in one piece. Had great conversation. He will be leaving early headed to Gently's.
Flame
USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 22:17:11 (MDT)

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Jeff I need to get in touch with you about what happened in 1970 in the 129th my e mail is gmarshall@ckt.net
george marshall
USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 17:29:32 (MDT)

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Fred, might I suggest you stay in bed for the rest of the week...geez! With a wink-Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 13:52:20 (MDT)

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alvis thanks for the words of encouragment I,ll keep posting you all have a good time at the get together's be safe all george
george marshall
USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 11:35:08 (MDT)

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Smitty, fair skies for your ride,may your bike purr like a tom cat in a dairey.Happy b day to you and the others. 5 day forecast here is for rain monday,fair skies tuesday and wensday. Mid 80s are the normal day time temps here this time of year.Had a wreck in the red bomber yesterday, need to go to the junk yard and buy another fender and headlight assy.no one hurt , not my fault.George, you just keep posting, dont worry, your family here, same as Lou and his son.
alvis
USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 07:39:29 (MDT)

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Big Day is here & I am out the door, progress reports along the way, Indy or Bust>>> Respects , Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 05:51:38 (MDT)

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Mark....I'll keep you company at Pop-A-Top on Wed. till the guys get there. The kids decided to forgoe a vacation this year. Just going to hang around home instead.
Linda Sue H.
Celina, OH USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 21:59:24 (MDT)

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Kal, I am not sure what time Pete and I will get to the Pop-A-Top on Wednesday. It will depend on what time we leave Cleveland, and that's going to be up to Pete. Cherry, I tried to tell you in one of my emails to you that i told Mike that you were the one that straightened me out on that but he couldn't remember you. I have a couple of pictures that I bring that might be you and i'll show it to him at the reunion. Hope everyone is doing good....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 16:52:23 (MDT)

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Hey Gale.. No, Shirley it going to drive down and meet me at the hotel on Thursday. If you can, pick up a cool case of your favorite pop and bring it to Rons place Thursday and I will pay you for it.. Judith.. We sure are going to miss you and Joe at the reunion, and by the way, congradlations to Joe!! Smitty will probably get all my hugs when he stops in Saturday.. Oh well.. Take care all... B Cn U soon.. Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu(at)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 15:36:29 (MDT)

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Happy Birthday Jim Westwang!!!!! So glad you're stopping by Saturday! Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 12:50:29 (MDT)

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Hi to all I am trying to get through to Lou Rags or his son I have a signed , notarized statement stateing that I recall the tail rotor, arms room,the swimming pool and the fragging of the 1st seragent incidents. With all the stuff I can recall about them .But I can't seem to get through to Lou or maybe he cant check his email hope nothing is wrong. I need his current address so I can send it to him .Lou and myself need the same kind of statement from as many of you that were there in 1970 that remember these incidents. They dont have to have dates or names, but that would help if you remember any . What we need most is conformation that they happened.So Lou if you read this send me your current address and I will send you my statment.I know I am new here and some may not be comfortable with me yet, no problem, I understand.Hope you all have a safe get together and wish I could be there ,but its a little far for me and I have to see my VA shrink on the 21st and never know if I'll get to come back home LOL. So be good to yourselves and take care. George Marshall
george marshall
USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 10:01:25 (MDT)

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Hi to all I am trying to get through to Lou Rags or his son I have a signed , notarized statement stateing that I recall the tail rotor, arms room,the swimming pool and the fragging of the 1st seragent incidents. With all the stuff I can recall about them .But I can't seem to get through to Lou or maybe he cant check his email hope nothing is wrong. I need his current address so I can send it to him .Lou and myself need the same kind of statement from as many of you that were there in 1970 that remember these incidents. They dont have to have dates or names, but that would help if you remember any . What we need most is conformation that the happened.So Lou if you read this send me your current address and I will send you my statment.I know I am new here and some may not be comfortable with me yet, no problem, I understand.Hope you all have a safe get together and wish I could be there ,but its a little far for me and I have to see my VA shrink on the 21st and never if I'll get to come back home LOL. So be good to yourselves and take care. George Marshall
george marshall
USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 09:56:34 (MDT)

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The last time I was in Indy there was a tornado. I was wondering if I should bring a raft or just wear my swim suit on the plane. I stayed at Ron's house when I was there an it wasn't all that bad. I know it will be a good time. I got your six covered Ron hehehehehehehe slick covering a cobra that s bad. LOL Flight be careful out there traveling.
Rick England
USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 09:11:28 (MDT)

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Hey guys I finally broke through and was able read and use the Flight Log for the first time in a long while. Every time I would get to the point where it said done the very top of the page would say not responding. Well it responded just fine today. I have located several more of the pilots of my era in the 129th. I spoke with Ralph "Pete Nolen Cobra Baron 69-70 and Tom Robinson Cobra Knight 69-70. I have spoken with Ray Evans and Jim Jobe several times and Ray and I are trying to get together this summer. I cant make any of the reunions as my vacation time did not work out. I also saw John Stone who just happened to be in my neiborhood and stopped by to say Hi. We reunited via this web site as he pulled my name off the Contacts Listing that Mark was kind enough to place for me. I have a new email carrier same address but at Frontiernet.net. The first part for anyone interested is dickandbarb75@ then see last. I want to also let you know that I found a photo of myself John Stone and Ray Evans in the Gallery section. I contacted Bill Wolf and told him who was in the photo as he said help with the names this internet thing is sure great. Robbie I am really glad that you found Mike Solar. You thought that I was him and I turned you onto the correct person. If you read this tell Mike Dick Muirhead said to say hello. To all the guys who were emailing me I miss the mail. Mark I tried to call you several weeks ago but could not get you as you were out riding your Hog I was told. I went to Redding Calif. today to see the 4/5th size traveling Viet Nam Wall. It is not as overwhelming as the real one in D. C. but I got all the names from the 265 and had to explain to a lot of folks the real history of 4 names on that wall. Well I am going to close this for now I want all the guys out there who flew in the 129th that we had the best company in Nam and I am proud to have had the priviledge of serving with all of you Dick Muirhead Bulldog Cherry
Dick Muirhead <dickandbarb75@frontiernet.net>
Susanville, Ca USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 00:30:10 (MDT)

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I'll be 52 Smitty.......Just a pup...HUH? Keith
Keith 72-73
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 20:18:32 (MDT)

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Good luck with your cookout Ron, I tried to have an "Animal rights" barbicue once and no-one showed up. Hope everyone has a beer for me. I stopped after twenty-thousand or so. Now I can give myself a buzz just thinking about it. Best wishes to all!!..........Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 20:15:03 (MDT)

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Gently, I turned 62 on May 27th while we were in San Francisco. Jim Westwang, be careful & enjoy the beautiful countryside. Kal, hope to be at TOP on Wed, will know more tomorrow. Is Shirley riding with you? Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 20:12:18 (MDT)

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..WOW!!!!!!!......sounds like Ron's house is going to be a real blast!!!!......Kal, No need for a sleeping bag. We have 3 empty beds here, and our daughters who live close by have some more. Smitty, you can sleep in the grand daughter's crib if you like. HeHeHeHeHe. I will be at the Pop-A-Top starting at noon Wednesday and hang until the 129th has had enough. I'm sure it wont be that late because we probably will want to get and early start for the ride to INDY the next day.......Pretty excited about this reunion. Sound like it will be a great one. So Gently and Joe, you guys will be making the BBQ ?..but not the rest of the weekend ?.......Congrates Joe. We are proud to know you here at the 129th brother. Will miss you guys at the dance though......Linda Sue H...hope you can make the Pop-A-Top Wednesday.....and also Sue H. and Jim.........WOW....what a gig this is going to be....Take care all....SMITTY, God's Speed and be careful........see ya wednesday.......and the rest. Robbie, Pete, Kal, and all that may travel to the Pop-A-Top , or just to INDY, Traveling Mercies for you.....god Bless ya all....always a brother..........Mark
Mark
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 19:43:12 (MDT)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIETH, I will be 53 which puts me in with the younger crowd. The idea of having that party at Ron Paye's sounds scary. Did you say he lives in a Nursing Home?? I knew we were getting there but didn't think any were that far yet, maybe we could just visit him. Does anyone know the visiting hours? LOL>> Respects>> Smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
Sheridan,, wy USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 18:48:10 (MDT)

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Happy Birthday Smitty & Kieth!!.. Hey Tom Pederson.. Have a good trip and I will be looking foreward to seeing you!!. Hey Robbie, what time are you guys planning on rolling into Coldwater? We, Smitty and I, should be there around 3-4.. OK guys.. Time to be getting packed up.. See you soon!!.. Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu(at)email.com>
St Joseph, MI USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 17:31:04 (MDT)

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Smitty & Keith Happy Birthday (June 17th) Gale Happy Birthday to you also. Tom be careful on your way up to the reunion. Long haul. Will be good to see all once again. Gently, are you hosting Ron's Bar-B-Q?? Sounds like a wild time. HA! HA! Alex
Alex
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 16:01:23 (MDT)

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Yo Smitty-----happy, happy!!!! So many birthdays this month!!! Gale, fellow Gemini, you never did tell us your date. I talked to Ron Paye last night, we are all to bring our own food, drinks, and ashtrays to his BBQ. He will supply the furniture and charcoal. He also wants us to leave right after we eat and clean up. And he doesn't have a limo for us-who started that whopper?? He sounded cranky and darn right angry! I stayed on the phone with him for quite awhile and after two beers I had to put a stop to it. What a boor! I mean Bore! Now, I'm sure some of you will still want to attend his "BBQ" but it sounds like he's really not doing us a favor.....For what it will cost to bring my own food, drinks and ashtrays, I might as well eat at a restaurant and not have to worry about cleaning up! And I don't think we'd have any fun anyway-his house was broken into and his stereo stolen. On top of that, I guess he lives in a retirement community so we'd have to be pretty quiet while we were there. I don't know-it just doesn't sound like that much fun. Oh, and he purchased three new puppies he can't get house-broken. Yikes!! Watch where you walk. The striper broke up with him,I guess she didn't like the idea that he was going to dance with her while she danced for us. His freezer broke down, so bring your own ice for your drinks. And the man- made geese crap laden lake behind his one bed-room row house has caused some mosquito problems in the city. Did I mention that the flooding has caused his septic tank to....well, I'm not going to bum you out any further. I just think there's something better we can do next Thursday. Oh, yes, i feel very sorry for Ron and all of his present problems... but why get the re-union started off that way! . Geez...give me a break. Anyone have any other ideas? Smiling-Gently. Sorry Ron...couldn't resist:>))).
Gently
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 15:46:46 (MDT)

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Flight I will be leaving Atlanta early AM on Thursday 23 June for the drive to Indianapolis. I will go through Chatanooga, Nashville, Louisville etc., If you need a ride give me a call. I hope Ironchop is listening. Tom Pedersen
Tom Pedersen <safetyshark@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, Ga USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 15:38:56 (MDT)

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HEY SMITTY.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY......tomarrow 17th.....and good luck on your trip.Keith.
Keith 72-73
Corinth, Ms. USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 15:07:01 (MDT)

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Fred, sorry about what happened,I do think Alex is right about safety,a few years ago a policeman at the Phoenix VA stopped a person outside to ask a question & was shot to death for his effort. Now the Va police are being armed. I am excited about seeing all the new country, am concerned about all the Water but am coming anyway. IF you spot a 2003 HD Flhtc in Gunmetal Pearl with a Fat Kid on it float by---- It's me--- Help.>> Respects & see ya soon >> Smitty
Jim westwang 71-72
Sheridan,, wy USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 14:20:19 (MDT)

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Fred A. Know how you feel. Been there and done that. It, cost so much to haul them to court. Or have an employee hurt. They let people steal. At Autozone we can ask for the merchandise back. But, we can't go out the store or touch them. But, you can stop them in the store. If you see them hide merchandise and try to leave without paying. That the intent to shoplift. We can stop them at the inside of the door. But, if the bolt we can't go after them. Bussiness write off so much shink to shoplifting. But, a company loses more from internal theft. You did a good job. But, companies are worried about safety to employees. We have people shot and cut leaving a store trying to get shoplifters. LP would rather you look for employee theft. OH! Ron are you going to post directions to the thurs. evening gathering. Cinda got a call from someone from the 129th . I will be working the registration room for while Turs. I can head out directions if needed to 129th Brothers and Sisters. Also found out this afternoon that Sam and Sharon Hennesse won't be at the reunion. Their home was flooded by all the bad weather in Wi. Our thoughts and Prayers are with them. Alex 129th 65-68 PS Ray hope your feeling better. Was good talking to you.
Alex
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 13:03:30 (MDT)

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Flight-two books that need submissions, please pass this on: "Wives of War:From the Hearts of those left Behind"(wivesofwar@yahoo.com) and "Chicken Soup for the Military Wife's Soul" (www.militarysoul.org). Both books will encompass stories from all wars. Please check it out. with smiles-Judith(Gently)
Gently
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 12:01:44 (MDT)

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Ray,if you are on here.... It's 12:00 Noon here & in Indy right now. Hope that helps ya. Alvis, More rain!! Feather Creek runs right thru Clinton and hasn't come out for a number of years. Right now it's hitting the bottom of the bridges. Back in the 40's & 50's it used to flood everyone along it's route....looks like it may do it again. I'm still safe & dry tho. Gale
Gale
Clinton, In US of A - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 11:11:35 (MDT)

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HELLO FLIGHT,, GOT A ??? I LOOKED AT A MAP OF THE TIME ZONE FOR INDY, THE ARROWS POINT BOTH WAS, SO WHAT TIME ZONE WILL BE IN WHEN WILL IT BE DST OR CNT TIME JUST WONDERING THANKS, DON'T MEAN TO SOUND DUM BUT IT DON'T TELL YA.BUT I BE THERE ON THUR, YOU ALL TAKE CARE.AND THANKS
RAY <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
MD USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 08:57:11 (MDT)

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gale, local flash flood and regular flood warning posted for this area. getting up to 2 inches per hour, been raining all night. I,too, am safe from flood waters.White river is "up a bit". Lowes punished me cause they would rather loose 30 buckes thqan get sued for a million. i can see their point, but it still sucks. Wish I could go into a store, steal what ever I want, and have the workers get into trouble instead of me. chuckle.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:38:48 (MDT)

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Alvis, you mean that you got an "artical 15" from Lowes? That's not good! lol. I guess they have to protect the "shoplifters rights" or they might get sued.......brother. I got my pegboard up in my shed. Fit perfect, no cutting...thanks again. How's the water over your way? The old Wabash is really overflowing around here and still raining. As I said, I'm safe from it all where I'm at. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:08:35 (MDT)

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Alvis, you mean that you got an "artical 15" from Lowes? That's not good! lol. I guess they have to protect the "shoplifters rights" or they might get sued.......brother. I got my pegboard up in my shed. Fit perfect, no cutting...thanks again. How's the water over your way? The old Wabash is really overflowing around here and still raining. As I said, I'm safe from it all where I'm at. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:08:34 (MDT)

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Alvis, you mean that you got an "artical 15" from Lowes? That's not good! lol. I guess they have to protect the "shoplifters rights" or they might get sued.......brother. I got my pegboard up in my shed. Fit perfect, no cutting...thanks again. How's the water over your way? The old Wabash is really overflowing around here and still raining. As I said, I'm safe from it all where I'm at. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:08:34 (MDT)

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Alvis, you mean that you got an "artical 15" from Lowes? That's not good! lol. I guess they have to protect the "shoplifters rights" or they might get sued.......brother. I got my pegboard up in my shed. Fit perfect, no cutting...thanks again. How's the water over your way? The old Wabash is really overflowing around here and still raining. As I said, I'm safe from it all where I'm at. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:08:33 (MDT)

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Alvis, you mean that you got an "artical 15" from Lowes? That's not good! lol. I guess they have to protect the "shoplifters rights" or they might get sued.......brother. I got my pegboard up in my shed. Fit perfect, no cutting...thanks again. How's the water over your way? The old Wabash is really overflowing around here and still raining. As I said, I'm safe from it all where I'm at. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:08:33 (MDT)

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Alvis, you mean that you got an "artical 15" from Lowes? That's not good! lol. I guess they have to protect the "shoplifters rights" or they might get sued.......brother. I got my pegboard up in my shed. Fit perfect, no cutting...thanks again. How's the water over your way? The old Wabash is really overflowing around here and still raining. As I said, I'm safe from it all where I'm at. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:08:33 (MDT)

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Judith, sorry you and Joe won't be making the Reunion. You will certainly be missed. Congrats to Joe, It sure sounds like he deserves the recognition. Fred A. How did you keep your composure when they were telling you that bull? i guess you should just let them steal as much as they want, but that's probably not a good idea either though. I'll see everyone that is going to the P-A-T next week....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 07:00:56 (MDT)

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Alvis, geez.....! You got the goods, you got the man, you got in trouble and your supervisor got fired. Go figure. Geez. Always here-Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 06:59:22 (MDT)

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oops, forgot to say, there wasnt a lp on duty when this happened.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 20:25:38 (MDT)

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I was written up today ,by my employer,Lowes Home improvment. I caught a guy stealing a knife and a handfull of sharpie pens,all total , about 35 or 40 bucks.I stopped the guy outside,ask to see his reciet.He didnt have one. When I ask him to step inside, he started saying how sorry he was, ect,while handing me his ill gotten loot. My department manager and I had observed him taking the product, pocketing it, then walking outside with it. She ( the manager) was fired today for her part in the stop ( by telling me to stop him).I was written up cause I violated company policy. Only an L.P. (loss prevention) can ask someone to come back into the store. As I am only a sales and customer service person, I had no right to ask anything more than if he had a reciet. Shrug, I signed the paper. I cannot get promoted now for 6 months,cant transfer ect. I still feel like I have the moral high ground and think the decission by Lowes sucks.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 20:21:38 (MDT)

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congrads Joe and gentley.we will miss you guys. Would be great if you 2 could attend the bbq at rons. gas is going down here, $1.76 today
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 19:54:29 (MDT)

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Gee.. I reunion without Gently.. It will be hard to take, just don't seem right.. Oh well, I am sure we will make it.. Hey Smitty.. I hope all is going well out there.. I finished up on my bike now and everything is coming into place. The extended WX is looking better and hopefully we will have a dry ride.. Gale, I didn't see any reply from Dan Hartline or Gus, I hope they make it. Has anyone heard from Wood?.. Last I heard he and Carolin were coming... Gettin close now..Hey Mark.. Should I bring my sleeping bag?? Everyone take care and hope to be seeing you soon.. Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu(at)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 19:47:09 (MDT)

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Congrats Joe!!!!! We are proud of you and what you do. A reunion without Gently? :o[[[[ Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 14:58:01 (MDT)

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Gently and Joe, well will miss you both at the reunion. But, I understand. Joe a huge Thanks to you for all work also. It's a real honor to be recgonized for the hard work a person does. An glad your part of the 129th family. Don, call Noel Nabors at the Corp. Office here in Memphis. He might know someone down here to help you with the insurance. it's a shot. Tell him you know me. Well hope everyone is getting excited. the days are ticking away. Fred alvis becareful driving to the Pop-A-Top. It's a long haul there and back the same evening. And the rest be careful out on those roads. Ray sorry I missed your call today. Worked all night and got in about 800 am. Catch you later. Always a Brother Alex.
Alex
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 13:02:19 (MDT)

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Don I will be thinking amd hoping for the best for you. *********Joe congrats brother I thank you for your help and support when I needed it you were there for allot of us. Judith get pics of the ceromony Flight be careful out there.****
Rick England`
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 10:20:53 (MDT)

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Don, damn! All you can do is try to contact the insurance company, or have your doctor, and talk to them about the situation. It doesn't usually work, but sometimes it does. I'm blessed to have a doctor who fights for me and what she feels is right. She has several times broken through the insurance barrier. Meanwhile, you are both in my prayers. Joe and I won't be making the re-union this year, but for a very good reason: Joe has been awarded the "VVA Distinguished Service Award for Wisconsin" and it will be given to him at the VVA State Convention which is the same weekend as the re-union. I'm pretty proud of that boy! He works for our Veterans 24/7 and is very deserving of the recognition-even though he hates it:>))). Way to go sweet baby, little darling sweet cheeks!!! But,,,,,what we might do is drive to Ron's for the BBQ on Thursday and turn around and drive back that evening so we can make the Convention on Friday evening. It's alot of driving, alot of driving, but we both want to see you all again, and pass out some hugs to the first-timers. So, we'll see. Mr. Westwang might be spending an evening at my house on his way to Kal's-is there anything I should know about him that I don't already??? LOL!!! Love to you all-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 07:03:52 (MDT)

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WELCOME HOME George. sorry I can't be of any help with the VA for you as I left the 129th in March of 69 before all that happened. I hope everyone has a great time at the reunion I can't make one that far away from home but I did make Phoenix, great time and it really helped me out. right now I am still fighting the insurance company. they wouldn't do surgery on my wife because they said it was "elective surgery" and we were trying to have it done by a Dr. that was OUT OF NETWORK. so we started over with another Dr. within the network ...... she was supposed to go in the hospital today for pre-surgery work up and some really strong anti-biotics ........ today they said no you can't be admitted to the hospital till time for surgery. (Friday) no pre operative anti-biotics. since when does an insurance company know better how to treat a person than their Dr. ??? I am going nuts trying to figure out what they are trying to do here. if they had ok'ed the first Dr. she would be healed up by now. I am ready to scream. (at least. well again have a great time at the reunion and take lots of pic's so the rest of us can see what went on without us LOL. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms , AZ USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 22:11:49 (MDT)

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Thanks brother will be looking forward to it. Becarefulout there
Rick England
USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 21:14:55 (MDT)

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Rick, I would be very pleased if you would accompany me to the pop a top. I know it would be special for you also. I would only spend a few hours there anyway.One more 129th person there would make it even better,so i will wait for you,if you still desire to vist the pop a top.( how often do you get this chance)? your friend, alvis
alvis
USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 19:55:27 (MDT)

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just ran across this fellow on helivets. you may know him. I invited him here.....Phillip Arellano "Pancho" mrphil@hotmail.com > Tours: > 1:129th AHC September 1969 September 1970 Loc:An Son, RVN > Callsign:Toro 288 > Crew Chief > DOB:September, 29, 1950
alvis
USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 19:50:36 (MDT)

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Fred A. If that is to much man you have the day off you can go earlier I will see everybody later. |If you are still on helivets would ask Rick Vogel to e-mail his phone number to me. Be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 15:51:09 (MDT)

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Alvis, great that you will be off. I know you will enjoy seeing you old Brothers once again. Rick will probably see you at the Hoetel Weds. I get in about 12:30 that afternoon. Have a board meeting also on Weds. afternoon. Everyone else have a safe ride to the Pop-A-Top. then on to Indy. Take care Alex
Alex
USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 06:49:31 (MDT)

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wont be too late, just wont stay late, chuckling.I never do stay too late as I always drive back the same day. Same goes for drinking, cant drive with a belly full of booze.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 21:32:06 (MDT)

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Don Whigham, Joe Alvarado, Ted Gustafson, Dan Hertlein.........hope you guys can make the reunion!!! Thad Czuba wants to see you ....and so do I!!!!! Gale
Gale 67-68
Clinton, In US of A - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 19:02:39 (MDT)

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Fred A., I will leave here the 18th, hopefully overnight with Flame in Woonsocket, SD that night, then Minnesota, Wisconsin Where i need to give a Photo to the Family of Tom Shaw, Ferry across Lake Michigan 21st & should be at Kal Bergstrom's place that night. Stay a day & we ride i assume in the am Wed 23rd to Coldwater it's about 230 miles, & arrive there in the afternoon sometime & then the whole gang can decide on when to leave for Indy, a fairly short Ride. I am leaving a little extra time between here & Lake Mi. to allow for weather, problems etc. Day after my 53rd Birthday, the Rubber meets the Road.>> lookin forward>> Smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
Sheridan, Wy USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 16:17:01 (MDT)

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Fred If it is going to be to late don't worry I will see you guys when you get to the reunion. you go ahead. Thats cool I'll catch you later thanks YOu be careful out there. take it easy coming home.
Rick England
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 15:55:06 (MDT)

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I ask some of you to email I'm not in contacts yet but the morning of the 11 june my first n second messages I put my email in them. been told thats not a good idea so have quit.But I will be more than glad to get emails from any of youfor any reason. Thanks alvis i,ll be home but will have a drink with you to remember all.On vets day I always pour out some beam for the boys who didnt make it .george marshall
george marshall
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 11:26:37 (MDT)

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just read this in the paper..makes me proud of the job we did and the people we did it with.......from the indianapolis star,sunday june 13th,2004. Raymond Clausen Jr., a helicopter crewman in the vietnam war who was awarded the Medal of Honor for rescueing fellow marines stranded in a minefield under enemy fire died may 30 in Dallas. He lived in Ponchatoula, La. he was 56. Hew enlisted in 1966 in the Marines. On jan. 31,1970.Pfc Clausen, assinged to the Marine Medium Helicopter squardon 263 of the 1st Marine air wing.flew as a crewchief on a mission to rescue Marines who inadvertadntly had entered an area containing American laid lane mines while pursuing enemy troops near Da Nang. He guided thew pilot to a landing patch of tall grass cleared by one of several mine explosions. Twenty Marines were nearby- 11 of then wounded,one already dead,and the other in place,fearful of setting off more landmines if they moved. Clausen disobeyed an order by the helicopter pilot to remain on the craft." I told him, No sir.I'm going off the plane" he recalled in an interview with the dallas morning news last january. He leaped from the helicopter to another spot and resumed rescue efforts. His citation said that dispite the threat of futher mine explosions, he made six trips out of the helicoptera. On oneof them,a mine detonated while he was carrying a wounded marine,killing another mwmbwe of the stranded platoon and wounding three other men. Only when he was certian that all the Marines were safely aboard,did he signal the pilot to lift the helicopter, his ciation said. soon after leaving the service in 1970.he was in an auto accident that left him in a coma for several months and impaired his ability to work. Slow hand salute, with deepest respect, alvis, 71/72
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 11:00:51 (MDT)

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A helicopter pilot died at the controls of his aircraft and went to pilots' hell, where he found a hideous devil and three doors. The devil was busy escorting other pilots to various "hell rooms." He looked at the newly arrived pilot and said, "I'll be right back - don't go away," and he vanished. Sneaking over to the first door, the pilot peeked in and saw a cockpit where the pilot was condemned to forever run through preflight checks. He slammed that door and peeked into the second. There, alarms rang and red lights flashed while a pilot had to avoid one emergency after another. Unable to imagine a worse fate, he cautiously opened the third door. He was amazed to see a pilot getting ready for a flight while several crewchiefs diligently put the final touches on a perfectly maintained aircraft and other crewchiefs help him out of the ops truck and carry his helmet bag. The crewchiefs even brought him coffee and saluted sharply as they presented the forms for his approval. He quickly returned to his place seconds before the devil reappeared. "Okay," said the devil, "which door will it be, number 1 or number 2?" "Um, I want door number 3," answered the pilot. "Sorry," said the devil. "You can't have door number 3, that's Crewchiefs' Hell."
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 10:20:16 (MDT)

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George, the reunions are held in a different city each year. They try to hold them in a different section of the country as well. This LZ pop a top thing is more of a spur of the moment,being the child of the "offical " reunion. By all means, Pop a Top is worth a vist at any time. Mark and Dee are very gracious folks, kind and (dont hold thius against them) will hug you.I am sure a drink will be had in your honor,smile.While still sober, we also offer a rememberance to our fallen. Gasoline is priced at the $1.81 mark today, here on indys west side.Weather forecast says chance of rains deminishes till thursday when partly cloudy skies are expected.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 10:10:19 (MDT)

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Sorry to say I wont be able to make the get together at pop a top this year but think I will make it next year I will have to fly out I havent been able to drive that far in years. So have one or two for me I like jim beam strait water back up.I wanna ask jeff ,sue h and wink to contact me via email so we can maybe work out how you can verfiy the info I need, after the reunion. lou rags I got your email did you get my reply I may have sent it to wrong address let me know .All you brothers have great time and a safe one george marshall
george marshall
USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 09:09:13 (MDT)

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who all is comming to indy this year?
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 20:47:52 (MDT)

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Smitty, what day you leaving again?( to come here) Raineer, you going too? I think Ron is also.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 20:27:05 (MDT)

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Picking up rick from the hotel must be my start of the time frame.Giving him an hour for check in,shave and a shower,ect,2 1/2 drive time,one hour difference in daylight saving time, should put us at the pop a top at 6 pm.An hour isnt much time after flying across the country,so I look to be closer to 7pm for LZ pop a top. Be warned, I am using that "damn" cream in the treatment of skin cancer.I am about 1/2 thru it, so my skin will appear blotchy,red,with perhaps,sores by then.It isnt catching, it isnt pretty,( course i never could claim that anyway).As gale said, susan caught me sleeping and took scissors to my beard,so I look "presentable"( yea, right). Smitty, hope you changed the plugs in that hog.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 20:21:00 (MDT)

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Just saw long range forecast for up to thursday.Keep in mind, in indiana,between kal and us, they have had 10 inches of rain in the past 3 days.lots of flooding up there,main highways open.ok, it has a good change of rain from today till wensday, clear thursday.This ,of course, may change as time passes. Dont want to see my buddies ride in the rain,its their parade. Greg, will do. Will take to pop a top wensday and turn it over to the flight. Ray Charles dieing caught me by surprise."rip".I too am getting itchy for the reunion. Havent ask if the better half is off yet. I will be going ,period.For me, meeting Smitty after 32 years of searching , will be the true reunion for me.Hope Shadow makes it, that will be iceing on the cake.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 19:52:34 (MDT)

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Hello to all you Bite and Strikers!!.. Well, as far as when we will be getting to the Pop-A-Top.. I'd think we should be pulling in about 3PM if all goes well. I don't know when Pete and Robbie will be getting there but anywhere around 3-4 ought to be good. If were not there when "you" get there, the bartender should know where we are at. Boy, the excitement is building.. I sure was glad to see Fred's vacation was OK'd. Had me worried for a bit.. Lookin Good!!! B Cn U soon... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu(at)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 18:11:11 (MDT)

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Just finished oil change & pre-flight on the Electra-Glide but she only has 7k on her so no prob., starting to get things together, leaving for me is getting close. I am expecting that if Kal & I leave his place in Mi. in the am, we should be there ( coldwater), in the afternoon sometime. Lookin forward to seeing all. FRED A. , GREAT JOB on getting off. Smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 17:13:09 (MDT)

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Fred A, Kal and everyone coming to Pop-A-Top for the "mini" reunion on Wed. 23rd...what time are you all expecting to be there? I'll be returning from vacation sometime that day and would like to catch up with you all there.
Sue
CELINA, OH USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 16:06:24 (MDT)

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By the way, may Ray Charles rest in peace . His soulful voice has always given me "chicken skin" (goose bumps) as they say here. Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 15:47:59 (MDT)

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Alvis, Feel free to open it. I think the Pop a Top would be an appropriate place for it, and you folks there can decide what to do with it......... Regards, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 15:39:32 (MDT)

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george hope you got my e-mail about those incidents, i remember 1stSgt geroge hope you got my e-mail about those incidents, I remember about 1st Sgt Dudley getting fragged, also the guy who fell on the pool pump who was electricuted. I denfinitly remember george hain, I was there that day when it happened, I also need anybody who remembers me, to respond the VA is giving me a hard time too.
lou rags 1
dover, de USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 15:25:05 (MDT)

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Animal, do you want the package delivered to pop a top or the reunion? Who do you want me to give it to? It remains unopened till i get instructions reguarding your wishes.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 14:43:26 (MDT)

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Animal, its arrived and sitting in my living room. Now excatly what you want me to do with it? Lowes update... whew, talked to the powers that be, am off wensday thru sunday. YESSSSSSSS. Rick, you still want to ride to coldwater with me wensday? Its about a 2 1/2 hour drive from my house ( same from the airport).I would like to get there early evening, say between 6 and 7 their time. ( 1 hour difference).Perhaps a little earlier if everyone is going to be there.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 14:36:17 (MDT)

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left out a word in my last message lol its my right shoulder thats gettin replaced george
george marshall
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 12:51:05 (MDT)

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George Welcome home brother Please send me you e-mail addy to bd431@mindspring.com and give me some info on your VA history and what claims you have filed for. Maybe I can be of some help. I also have degenerative diesease. Be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 11:02:58 (MDT)

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Just a bit of info it was 1st sargent Dudley who got fraged.I want to thank all my brothers you have all heleped me with info and well just being there to talk to.I got a question for all I have been hearing alot about joint problems, the ones on your body I have been on scoial security disability for almost 3 years cause the cartilage in my joints is deteriorateing, And none of the docs know why or what and I have seen several.All my major joints are affected. the cartilage is all gone in my right and i'm facing a total replacement in July. any one having similar problems.Hope I,m not buggin any I,m new and have lots of questions .And I,m long winded with alot of time on my hands and don't get out much. (george)
George Marshall
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 10:28:29 (MDT)

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We can all get together and hold a protest in front of lowe's. We have a calender at work that we write our vacation and time off needed. Lowe's thinks your going to have a great time. Try talking to the store Mgr. Hopefully he'll understand that we are flying in from all over the US. to see Fred Alvis. Take Care Brother and hope you can get off or work an early shift. Alex
Alex
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 09:28:55 (MDT)

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George, welcome home brother! Rainer, you gonna try to make the "Top" on Wed? Maybe we can team up and get some guys up there on Wed if anyone's at the hotel & wants to go. Flight, if anyone is reading the news about destroying the VX at Newport, Indiana...........Newport is 10 miles north of my home and kinda scary. It was made from 1961-68 and stored there all this time. I actually used to work there in 1970. Anyway, over 1200 tons of this "nerve agent" is gonna be nuetralized and dumped into the Wabash river over the next 2 1/2 years. They say that a dot this size ( . ) will kill a 180lb, healthy man in a few seconds. Do I trust the Government (the Army is in charge of it)????? NFW !!!!! Ron Paye, you need to let some of locals know what to bring to your cookout on Thurs eve. We'll be glad to help. Alvis, hope you can get Lowes straightened out on that vacation. Sounds like they're always jerking you around. Ray, can't wait to see you & Gail again....won't be long. Clear, Gale
Gale 67-68
Clinton, In US of A - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 08:11:25 (MDT)

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Welcome home George. You have found the right place. Keith was good meeting you and your family. Glad to hear the youngster had a good time at camp. We will cross paths when I get down to Mississippi. Robbie and Pete will in Barberton Ohio on the 19th-23rd my cell phone is 901-487-0374. Going to try and hook up with Capt. Jack Alexander who lives in Medina ohio. Well Brothers and Sisters take Care. See you in Indy!! Alex
Alex
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 07:59:27 (MDT)

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argggggggg, its happened again. My "request" for vacation time has been "lost".I have been assigned to work the days of the reunion.Today,I am supposed to get with the managers and get this straightened out.grrrr.Smitty, I WILL be there. alvis 71/72
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 04:53:01 (MDT)

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You guys are great! I am proud and grateful to belong to this unit at times like this.On countless ocasions, when a brother needs help, the response is quick and heartfelt.I remember when I first found this site, you guys made me feel like I was back where I could express myself and be ,either understood,agreed with,or told I was full of it , but thats ok,were family. Sometimes you guys just make me feel humans aint so bad after all, and nam vets are indeed a family.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 04:49:03 (MDT)

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Thanks Alvis. I appreciate it.
Larry Kwiatkowski
Simi Valley, Ca USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 22:42:10 (MDT)

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Wink Thanks for the info I remember doing a sweep and finding frags in sand bags pins part pulled and tied to sand bag strings. we all thought before that they were rpg's at the time . thanks for the support .I need brothers who will confirm this stuff in writing. thanks for the help george (OX) ps I will have my pic on in a few days If I can fig out how
george marshall
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 21:45:31 (MDT)

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hello Rainer. oh we plan on going to the ET MUSEUM FOR SURE, WE ARE COMING IN ON A A THURDAY. I HAVE AN OLD FRIEND TAKING US THERE. BUT I THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE OFFER CAN'T WAIT TO GO I TELL YA AT FRIST IT SEEMED SO FAR AWAY NOW HERE IT IS LOOKING AT US IN THE FACE, WONDERING WHAT TO PACK, I CANT WAIT TO MEET EVERY ONE. THOSE WHO SEEM ME LAST YEAR WILL SEE A BIG CHANGE IN ME FOR THE GOOD. THIS PLACE AND THE COLENCING I BEEN GETTING HAS HELPED SO MUCH, I STILL GET CONFUSED AT TIMES AND CANT SPELL BUT CANT HAVE EVERY THINH BUT I FEEL GOOD, SO SEE YOU ALL IN INDY SOON A BROTHER ALWAYS BE SAFE ALL
Ray <stilwatingwating@aol.com>
md USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 20:53:14 (MDT)

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swwelcome george, just to let you know i was there during those dates. i remember the fraging of the frist sergent an what lead up to the fraging..the week we where being fraged all week an thinking it was charlie lobbing morters in on us,morters right, it was one of our own tring to get even with the frist serg..he laid frages all over the compond, day and night. it was one of the slick crewchiefs. he got busted down to private after getting caught with pot on him. boy do i remember. i also rember the arms room incident. ox if i can help in anyway don't hesiate, and don't give up. ask ray.......alex let liz know that kristina going to the ladys lunchen.=====hey mark i an my daughter should pull into the pop a top wedesday night see you all in indy. wink 3/69 -10/70 from 010with love
wink
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 20:48:05 (MDT)

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ALEX....was really nice to get to meet you today......Keith
Keith 72-73
Corinth, Ms USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 20:15:38 (MDT)

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Ray, count on it being in the 80's here. You are still planning to go to the Art museum arn't you. If you are coming in on Wed. let me know I will try to arrange to pick you up. Rainer
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 18:31:41 (MDT)

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George, Keep trying with the V.A. I've found there are "two" VA's. The Medical branch is great, but the bean counter branch is trying to discourage you and make you give up. Your claim should be retroactive to when you filed it, so when it finally is approved they'll give you back pay from that date. Also, I've found the local Vet Center helpfull. They'll help you fill out the forms and theres allways other Vets around familier with the process willing to help. Good luck and keep trying. Greg 71-72
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 16:24:29 (MDT)

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George...I also know about the incidents you mentioned...all three. I can verify that they happened and hope our support at this site enables you to move ahead both in your life and towards this family of sorts that I feel exists within here. I think something should be done to make Pop-A-Top the "official" home of the 129th. Larry Jackson is smiling behind the bar, his brother has brought all of us together...what more prerequisites could there be to make this a reality?? I plan on being there on Wed. the 23rd to meet whoever shows up. Maybe we can christen it as such at that point. And by the way, George, I've read the postings on here and looked at the photos and never fail to feel emotional...and I'm just outside looking in. Welcome home...
Sue H
CELINA, OH USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 15:52:08 (MDT)

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George, I was there for all three incidents you mentioned. I picked up the peices of George Hain after he walked into t/r. Fred S was also there. I am at work now but will get back with you this weekend. I work for VA and know how tough getting stuff thru them can be.
jeff
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 12:07:36 (MDT)

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Yes George-these guys are the best! And "Welcome home!" Gently
Gently
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 11:57:19 (MDT)

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Think i'm home I have been answering emails with help and support for over 3 hrs cant belive the response. I have to stop every little bit n wipe my eyes . thanks brothers george
george marshall
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 11:13:35 (MDT)

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HELLO FLIGHT. I WAS WONDERING HOW THE WEATHER IS OUT THERE IN INDT THERE IN JUNE AND WHAT KIND OF CLOSES TO BRING. SO FAR BY LOOKING AT THE TV LOOKS LIKE I NEED A BOAT JUST KIDDING BUT REALY IS HOT THERE OR IS THIS WEATHER UNISUAL. JUST WONDERING WHAT TO BRING FOR CLOSES , I STILL CANT WAIT TO SEE YOU ALL THERE, AGAIN RON THANKS FOR THE INVITE TO YOUR HOME .HOW YOU DOING ROB AND RICK ALEX I HOPE YOUR FOOT GETS BETTER SOON.ALVIS LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING YOU AND ALL THE ONES I MET BEFORE AND THE NEW ONES, A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY WE BEN GETTING LOTS OF RAIN TO SO GLAD ITS NOT SNOW. WELL TAKE CARE BE SAFE
RAY <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
MD USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 10:03:47 (MDT)

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Alvis Thanks for the good advive will use .
george marshall
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 09:36:49 (MDT)

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george, a word of advice. We have e-mail harvesters come into this site.if you put your addy down,as is, you will see emails arriving from some banker in africa saying your long lost uncle has died and left millions.As soon as you send your bank account number to them, you will recieve "untold " riches.Many that do add their addys in here,include the phrase ( delete this) in the middle of the addy so automatic harvesters pick up the wrong addy. alvis, 71/72,lane (anson) rvn,nien hoa, rvn.
alvis
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 09:13:48 (MDT)

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I was wondering when and where the next reunion will be .I just found this sight and will be checking daily. george marshall (OX)
george marshall <gmarshall@ckt.net>
Pleasanton, Ks USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 08:46:30 (MDT)

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Welcome home and to the site George. YES, you are in the right place.What youask about has been discussed in here. its true, The 129th wasntin combat ever, not once.Those little green things one saw comming their way was jelly beans offered in the sprit of friendship by the friendly citizens of both north and south vietnam.Happy valley was called that cause it was such a nice,spirtual place to vist.51 cal valley was called that cause we got a "salute" every time one visited it.Such a happy and friendly place, how can anyone have ptsd from there? Now a word from the "real world".I believe fred scaggs was there when the rotor blade "incident " happened, as well as the fragging, not sure who else in here was,but know there are others. Hey, we are having a reunion in indianapolis the ( help me out guys)thrusday thru sunday at the end of this month.starts the 24? Wendsay before hand, some of us are meeting at the "pop a top" bar in cold water ohio, the "unoffical' home of the 129th ahc.Heck, it might even be the offical home now.Many from our unit have passed thru there ,or mailed things there,from our vist to s.e.a.,rvn.once again, welcome to the site.
alvis
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 08:41:27 (MDT)

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Hi guys,I just found this site yesterday. I dont know if this is the right place to put this request but here goes.I was in the 129th Jan. to Dec of 70.I was the guy who patched your blades,n balanced your tail rotors.Soon after I got out I wound up in the VA hospital whacked out and it has been bad for the last 30 yrs.In Nov. of 2003 my VA shrink said I was suffering from ptsd and should file I did and was deined.I had 3 friends killed in that year.One had his head half torn off buy a tail roter he backed into, one was electrocuted at the pool in july,one was shot in the head in the arms room buy his friend,and does any one remember when the first sargent was fraged it was in the last 6mts of 70 , he only got some frag in the arm.But my hoch was next door and my bed, fridge n locker took the heat lucky I wasn,t in bed. The board reviewed my claim said none of this happened and in fact said that the 129th was not in any combat that year.So if any of you brothers remember anything about this stuff name, dates, please contact me.I need your help. Thanks George Marshall (nick name OX )
george marshall <gmarshall@ckt.net>
pleasanton, Ks USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 08:24:59 (MDT)

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Larry, will keep my eye out for you.
alvis
USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 00:22:08 (MDT)

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I can't make it t the reunion this time. It falls just as the school year is ending and there's no way I can sneak out. I was wondering, when I went to the last reunion, I bought a couple of bumper stickers. They loked like the VN service ribbon with the sillouete of a huey on them. Unfortunatly, I got rear ended and it wrecked my sticker. Would anyone like to do me a favor and if those stickers are available again, would u pick me up 2 or 3? Thanks, Scooter.
Larry Kwiatkowski <chrger66@aol.com>
Simi Valley, CA USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 00:00:05 (MDT)

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hmm, yep, there are 2 sue H's in here.Happy b day to all the june folks. Thge pilot that was busted for pot wasnt gabby. That all came about from a korean insertion on the other side of the mountians from where lane was/is. As i remember it, the roc's has pot in their helmets as camoflodge. the stuff started flying around inside of all the cabins upon lift off,with a few of us placing said debris in secret places.He got caught with it in an ammo can,drying it out.shrug,the difference was he got caught,we didnt.We all knew the penatly,and I suppose it was worse for offericers,unfortenatly.Now a days ,people look at me strangly when I say we traded a carton of cigs( $5.00) for a sandbag full of weed.I dont think they believe me about the pre rolled packets of bong son bombers.beer was 15 cents and hard stuff was 25 cents a drink.I forget what the " ladies" wanted, but 10 bucks comes to mind or a carton of smokes. " I love you much G.I., what time px open? Wanna buy a watch? You number 1 G.I.
alvis
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 23:50:39 (MDT)

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No, Lt Schriebers call sign was "star", busted for pot & disappeared the next day or so, thats what they did to RLO's, suppose he was allowed to resign his commission? Or worse. We will figure out Gabby's name yet Fred. Hope weather is Ok, in Midwest. We just had 2 tornados touch down just north of here & tore up a couple buildings. & I'm going thru the midwest on a Harley in a week. (wonder what i been smokin?). God controls our destiny & i'll let him decide. I'm comin anyway>>> respects>> smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
sheridan, Wy USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 17:15:20 (MDT)

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Must be two Sue H's in here. I'll try to be at Pop-A-Top, Mark. Haven't seen you in ages!!
Linda "Sue" Householder <lsah1852@hotmail.com>
CELINA, OH USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 16:30:37 (MDT)

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Since I'm new here, is there anywhere that birthdays are posted? I was just thinking it might be nice to acknowledge everyone when special days like that come around. I for one would like to pass along best wishes when good things like that happen.
Sue
Celina, OH USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 15:37:08 (MDT)

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What a day!! Happy birthday Judith and Ron!!! Boy, a double header!! Hope your day is great and you get everything you were hoping for.. C U at Indy.... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom <n8auu(at)email.com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 14:37:32 (MDT)

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Gale!!!! And I thought you were just dealing with multiple personalities!!! What's the BD date? Remember Kokomo and the first time we met Fred Alvis----he did look like one of the Z.Z. Top guys, didn't he!! Now he looks austrailian:>))) Then "hot" Mark pulled up on his "hot" bike...then Mr. Ron Paye, sir, with his beautifully painted machine...oh ya, and his two "hot" cheeks that we get to see where ever we go:>)) What a group! What a day!! Mr. Miller, my prayers. With gentle thoughts-Judith
Gently
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 13:22:19 (MDT)

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Alvis, Was "Gabby" the guy busted for pot? If so, his name was Don Schrieber (LT). I flew with him often, he was a good pilot. Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 12:47:24 (MDT)

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Judith, Have a very, very Happy Birthday, but, don't get like you did around the campfire at Kokomo!!! Alvis & I will "NEVER" get over that!! ;o))))))))) Just kidding guys....she's always on her best behavior. Hey..I'm a Gemini too. Happy Birthday to all you Gemini's. Alvis on a wanted poster?? Only poster I've seen him on was when "Z Z TOP" was in town!!! Gonna miss Don & Donna at the reunion, but, we'll keep ya in our prayers. I'll also tip a "Pepsi" (or somethin') for ya Don. Clear, Gale
Gale 67-68
Clinton, In US of A - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 12:20:35 (MDT)

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have ask this b4, have forgotten answer. Does anyone know Gabby ,the pilot,real name? Has anyone had contact with him.Would like to see him.I transferred out of the unit just b4 his wings were pulled.Dont know what happened to him after that nor when he derossed,
alvis
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 11:10:13 (MDT)

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Don and Alex-let's get these illnesses taken care of. My prayers are with you and your familes. Praying for good health for all. Fred, Joe is is some serious trouble for passing out such personal information, and if I would do a bio I'd be in some serious trouble:>))! LOL! I think the FBI has forgotten about me. I saw your pix at the post office Fred, what's all that about? Did Gale do that? smiling-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 10:42:35 (MDT)

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Don, prayers said, glad they finally found out what it is.Ray, in answer to your question,I can only say the places I rember flying into.first, ( at my time frame) ,the 129th flew all over 2 corp.The places I remember flying into that are on that list are..An Khe and camp Radcliff,Bon Song,Cam Ranh Bay,Lz English,Nha Trang,phan Rang,Pleiku, Phu cat,Qui nHon and Tuy Hoa. Once ask by docs " what makes me tink I was exposed", my answer was" when ahelicopter lands anywhere,billowing dust clouds are kicked up, you figure it out". Mark, I will try and send you the pics my son sent me,smitty is in 2 of them.Hmmm, if I print up a tiny picture of it, can we pin it on his chicken plate? Should know today what time I work wensday.Pop a top is an hour ahead of me.Rick, will try and see about the cooler.
alvis
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 10:12:50 (MDT)

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Happy Birthday Gently, and you too Ron, looking to give ya a big hug later this month; mine comes later this month as well. Matter of fact I had fun a couple of years ago when Cups and I presented the plaque to Mark, I started off by saying thanks to every one for showing up for my birthday party. May this year be good to and for ALL.........Tails Clear Left..............Casey
Matthew Casey
Hemet, CA USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 09:26:51 (MDT)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL MY 129TH BROTHERS AND SISTERS. THE FLIGHT LOG LOOKS LIKE A RAY OF SUNSHINE HAS LANDED AT THIS LZ. Cinda of the VHCMA has informed me that the 129th has the most pre-registered that any other unit. An we will have new faces to Welcome to our 129th family this year. I believe this will be the largest 129th reunion ever. I want to thank Tom Pedersen for his help sending out letters to our pilots of the 129th. And I sent to the names I could find on the inernet. Made a few good contacts this year. One thing we need to realize. Were not pilots or crew. But, we are Brothers now. Were all the same. No disrepect for rank. But, not military anymore. WERE MEN!! Don you and Donna are in our thoughts and prayers. Were here for you both. Alex
Alex
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 09:18:30 (MDT)

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happy birthday Gently. Smile, sure was sweet of Joe to post it here. Twas me that poisted about the bio's.How about it Gently? Man, I havent seen this many people post in a very long time,and all for gently,s birthday..cool.
alvis
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 08:56:12 (MDT)

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Whoa! What a way to start my day! Yes, today is my brithday, I'm now the "Speed Limit(in the U.S. not Europe!!)." But more important than my birthday is that there are so many of you who share yours with me this month!! Geez, so many Gemini's---no wonder we have so much fun--there's two of each us everywhere we go! Isn't it great!!! The best birthday greeting today is from Ann, Tom Shaw's wife. It confirmed to me, Ann, that you are still among us, your new family, who can help you fill in some voids about Tom while he was in Vietnam. Not knowing anything about his time there must have been....I'm sorry, I don't have the words. Stay here dear sister, we'll do what we can to fill in the voids. I'm so blessed to have been able to find you. OK, enough of that melancholy stuff:>)) Happy Birthday to all of my June comprades----let's do it again next year:>) Keep up to me-I'm at 55 now! Gently, Judith (who called me "Judy?" Bobbie Robinson??) Oh, one more thing-Ron Paye-I think they'll be a couple of Gemini moons this re-union:>)) HB my birthday brotherXOXO.
Gently
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 07:09:46 (MDT)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my/our BROTHER RON PAYE!!!!! Judith "Gently" and You - Oh what a beautiful pair of Geminis. I love a 4 of you!! May today there be peace within. May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be.... May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.... May you be content knowing you are a child of God.... Let this presence settle into our bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of you.... HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO. LOVE YA, YOUR BROTHER JOE St. Theresa of the Little Flower
Joe Campbell <vva342jfc@aol.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 06:39:09 (MDT)

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Thanks for the invite, Mark. Give us the directions and Jim & I will try to make it. We'll be leaving Wisconsin Tuesday to do some traveling and antiquing. Judith - happy birthday. Looking forward to seeing you again in Indy. You and my brother share the same b'day so that will be easy to remember. Don, will keep your wife in our prayers. Hope things to well........and.......everyone knows it has to be DR. PEPPER for me!!! Take care.....Sue H.
Sue H.
USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 06:24:51 (MDT)

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Alvis: The box is in the mail, Thanks again. Mahalo also to Ron and Smitty for their offers to help. Happy B-Day Judith and Smitty. Someone suggested we send a little autobiography on our birthday, how bout it? ............Scaggs, You there? Haven't heard from you in awhile.............Regards, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 00:08:52 (MDT)

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evening flight, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL. looks like we have quite a few this month. I haven't been on line since I made my last post so I am a little behind on the news. and it looks like it will be a while before I get back on again. my computer caught the SAS virus and I had it in the "hospital" the news is not good ........ he gave it back to me tonight so I can back up all my files and pics. he has to wipe the drive and start over again. so it may be a while before I get back in here. unfortunately that is the good news part of this post. Monday my wife Donna has to go back in the hospital for more surgery. all the tests show that she does infact have an infection in the bypass surgery she had 3 years ago. it was to help the bloodflow to her legs. anyway it has to come out ...... the area cleaned of all the infected tissue and a new one put in to save her legs. it will be between a 4 and 5 hour surgery. the surgery will take place on wednesday. at least that is what is scheduled. she will have about a 10 day stay before she can come home. ........... hope everyone has a GREAT TIME at the reunion. have fun and tip one for me ( Pepsi works just fine LOL ). also please say a little prayer, cross your fingers, or whatever, ........... Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 23:18:28 (MDT)

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Happy Birthday, Gently! I'm so glad that reading the flight log tonite let me know that this is your special day. I hope it was one to remember. You've done such an amazing job of remembering others....may all the caring and sharing that is your trademark come back to you a hundred-fold! I haven't been online for several weeks...computer troubles...and I know now that Jim is trying to reach me with Tom's picture...so I'll try to connect. Again, blessings on your big day and in the year to come. Ann
Ann Shaw Buslee <abuslee@centurytel.net>
Ladysmith, WI USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 21:53:24 (MDT)

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evening flight, an a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you judithits amazing that we make another birthday when alot of the times we think we might not make our next one. happy birthday again judith and many more. we need you around to keep us together, heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee. what time of day is everyone meeting at the pop n top, my daughter an i should be in the area.will try to stop, my daughter would love to see it.mark as long as you are going to be at the pop n top i'll call their when im closeto make sure you all haven't left for treunion. see you all in indy wink3/69-10/70 from 010 with love
barry wimkler ----wink
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 20:01:42 (MDT)

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Happy birthday Judith/Judy/Gently Singer. Hope you have a real nice day (and night). Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 19:13:07 (MDT)

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Happy Birthday Judy, !!!!! Must be a lot of Geminis, Mine is the 17th as well, I will fire the Harley the day after & head your way all, Final preps are underway. Oil Change, cleaning, some packing etc. Plan to overnight with Flame in SD on 18th & will try to put something in to let ya'll know i made it that far. Gettin excited.>> Smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 18:58:18 (MDT)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUDITH!!!!, and God Bless......Hey all...lookie here. It's me. been kinda layin' low latly. Dont know why. Stayin' out of contact with everybody. Dont know why. But getting wind in my sails now. Really looking forward to INDY!!!!....The insertion at the Pop-A-Top sounds like it we be lots of fun and a great time. I will be honored to have so many 129th'ers in the place at one time. It's your place. Dont worry about a place to stay, we have plenty of room here, or will find all rooms at one of the daughters house's if our house gets full. I wont take no for an answer either. HEY SUE H......Maybe you could make it to the Pop-A-Top too that Wednesday?. See if you can. Would bve a good warm up to meeting the 129th gang. Hope you can make it.....NOW...to all that I have not got to posting your address's, or photos, or stories, or anything that I have negected to do, I'm am truely sorry and ask for your forgiveness. I have let you down, and I am sorry for that. You guys have never let me down and have always been there for me and it is terrible how I have fudged all of this.....I'm sorry and will remidy it..........Rick E....got your massage and YES, I will be at the Pop-A-Top the Wednesday that you all plan on being there.......... and Ron Paye, please add Dee and I to the list at your BBQ at your house Thursday. Dee and I plan to ride out when the Flight leave's Coldwater for INDY also. WOW....Ridin' with a flight of 129th'ers.....COOL!!!!!!!!!...My Dad has been doing some doctorin' and I am the one who drives him to his appointments. He and I have a better relationship then we have had EVER in our lives together, and I am grateful for that. I am honored that he ask me to drive him.I dont have to like everything that my father has done in his life after WWII, but the LOrd does instruct me to "HONOR" my father and Mother, and I Take That Call....take care all and all please be careful in their travels to INDY and the Pop-A-Top later this month.......God Bless........always a brother........Mark
Mark Jackson
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 18:44:06 (MDT)

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Judith...Sounds like you have a lot of friends on here. Hope I will be one of them. Happy Birthday!
Sue
Celina, OH USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 16:10:20 (MDT)

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Judith Happy Birthday. Also you are a part of us if you need just like any other brother or sister let us know or we will find out. We are here for you. A borther forever. my Family be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 15:04:07 (MDT)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY....GENTLY...and may you be blessed with many many more. (mine is Thurs. 17th) lots of us Gemini's out here.......Keith
Keith 72-73
Corinth, Ms. USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 15:02:50 (MDT)

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Gently, HAPPY BIRTHDAY....... Jean and I wish you the absolute best...... You are a "SPECIAL ANGEL" and deserve only GOOD things to happen to you...... May GOD bless you and keep you wrapped in her/his arms....... Thank you for all you do....... ktf, Jean & C.P.
C.P.
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 14:42:41 (MDT)

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUDITH (GENTLY) JUNE 10TH. Have a great Day and THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO FOR US AND OTHER VETS!! Sunday 13th will be my day!! Not as young as you though. Roger great to see you back up and runninng. Was an honor to talk to you. Kal,Jim,Robbie,Pete. Becafeful on your ride to the Pop-A-Top and also to Indy. I will fly out Akron/Canton Weds.23rd to Indy. Found out I have a board meeting so will miss the Pop-A-Top. Ray hope you have been doing OK!! will call you later this week. Well, you all take care. And Liz and I will see you in Indy. Alex
Alex
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 14:39:42 (MDT)

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A "BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY" (;>)) to Gently. June 10th.************************** We are all Blessed to have her in our lives. Judith has always been there for the Vets. We know that and we are very grateful to her for that. I, for one can truly attest to her compassion, respect and love for all Veterans. Please join with me in wishing the very best for Judith and may the Good Lord continue to guide and BLESS HER ALWAYS!! Welcome Home - Joe
Joe Campbell <vva324jfc@aol.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 14:24:20 (MDT)

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HELLO TO ALL. I GUESS ALL IS GOING WELL. ALVIS STILL HAVEN GOT TO THE AIRCONDITION YET BOT GOING WIT THE IN WALL ONE. THEY ARE STILL EXTENDING PART OF THE HOUSE AND PAERT OF THE ROOF SO THE ROOFER CAN DO HIS THINH, IT SEEMS WHO EVER DONE THE ROOF BEFORE STOPED THE ROOF RIGHT AT THE WALL SO THE MAN DOING OTHER WORK TOLD ME TO HAVE THE ROOF COME OUT PASS THE WALL. BUT IT WILL GET DONE I HOPE.ALVIS WHAT PART OF VIET NAM WERE WE IN THAT GOT SPRAYED WITH AGENT ORANGE. IAM STILL GOING TO THE CONSELING HES HELPING ME A LOT; NEXT YEAR HE LIKE ME TO TRY A VISION QUEST , NOT TO SURE IF I CAN DO THAT, I NEVER HUNTED BEFORE, DONT EVEN KNOW HOW TO CLEAN IT OUT. I HOPE THEY TEACH YOU. BUT IF HE THINKS I CAN DO IT I GIVE A TRY WELL I CANT BELIVE INDY IS SO CLOSE, I WISED WE COULD MAKE IT TO THE POP A TOP. PERHAPS ONE YEAR ME AND GAIL WILL FLY OUT THERE WELL TAKE CARE AND SEE YOU ALL IN INDY TAKE CARE ALL A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY <STILLWATING#AOL.COM>
MD USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 13:51:19 (MDT)

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that came out crummy. we were in 2 corp (btw). many places we flew into are listed about 1/3 of the way down.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 08:57:12 (MDT)

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sorry for the lenght of this. I am posting this incase someone might need it.thank you foGrand Total: 8,165,491 gallons South Vietnam Quadrants: I Corp II Corp III Corp IV Corp Agent (Herbicide) Chart Agent Orange Information Warning: Very long. Frank I Corps - 2,355,322 Location Orange White Blue Total Gallons A Shau 53,550 2,550 6,128 62,228 An Hoa 6,500 1,800 11,250 19,550 Binh Hoa 8,220 0 1,600 9,820 Cam Lo 80,375 8,660 12,785 101,820 Camp Carrol 78,200 5,400 5,050 88,650 Camp Eagle 14,250 0 0 14,250 Camp Esso 53,410 5,600 0 64,510 Camp Evans 18,690 0 880 19,570 Camp Henderson 68,155 7,040 4,800 79,995 Chu Lai 12,170 4,150 1,598 17,918 Con Thien 84,700 12,460 10,925 108,085 Da Nang, China Beach 13,800 0 2,000 15,800 Dong Ha 54,385 5,060 9,935 69,380 Duc Pho, LZ Bronco 46,225 14,400 1,175 61,800 Firebase Jack 140,875 11,900 3,280 156,055 Firebase Rakkassan 150,145 23,900 2,510 176,555 Firebase West 15,405 3,690 18,480 37,575 Hill 63 20,500 3,200 0 23,700 Hill 69 11,620 4,150 1,598 17,368 Hoi An 17,520 3,000 13,950 34,470 Hue 41,395 0 5,070 46,465 Khe Sanh, Firebase Smith 43,705 3,040 4,300 51,045 LangCo Bridge 50,610 5,600 3,500 59,710 LZ Baldy 15,430 3,000 13,950 32,380 LZ Dogpatch, Hill 327 4,490 0 8,250 12,740 LZ Geronimo 22,535 14,000 468 37,003 LZ Jane, Firebase Barbara 91,150 6,750 3,700 101,600 LZ Langley, Firebase Shepard 72,105 7,040 4,800 83,945 LZ Profess, Hill 55 39,300 13,000 17,209 69,509 LZ Rockcrusher, Hill 85 47,800 0 0 47,800 LZ Rockpile 110,050 15,440 7,650 133,140 LZ Ross 15,405 6,720 18,508 40,633 LZ Sandra 118,780 20,210 24,755 163,745 LZ Snapper, Firebase Leather 11,350 0 3,000 14,350 Marble, Hill 59 15,405 6,720 18,508 40,633 Phu Bai 54,300 3,000 120 57,420 Phu Luc, LZ Tommahawk 78,250 4,000 0 82,250 Quang Nai 25,605 0 1,800 27,405 Quang Tri, LZ Nancy 68,000 2,750 3,700 74,450 2,355,322 II Corps - 1,054,406 Location Orange White Blue Total Gallons An Khe, Camp Radcliff 37,810 6,400 5,610 49,820 An Lao, LZ Laramie 68,970 490 10,570 80,030 Ban Me Thuot 16,000 9,250 0 25,250 Ben Het 80,495 7,230 3,000 90,725 Bon Song, LZ Two Bits 80,643 630 6,000 87,273 Bre Nhi 6,600 0 0 6,600 Cam Ranh Bay 21,227 1,373 0 22,600 Camp Granite 59,310 2,075 5,390 66,775 Che Oreo 0 1,800 0 1,800 Da Lat 575 0 0 575 Dak To 49,460 600 34,800 84,860 Firebase Pony 43,490 0 3,800 47,290 Kontum 0 415 0 415 LZ Dog, LZ English 63,073 630 6,000 69,703 LZ Oasis No Data LZ Putter, Firebase Bird 50,095 0 7,200 57,295 LZ Uplift 43,455 3,220 275 46,950 Nha Trang 6,950 325 0 7,275 Phan Rang 110 2,075 0 2,185 Phan Thiet 5,000 330 220 5,550 Plei Ho, SF Camp 15,300 1,260 110 16,670 Plei Jerang 98,220 51,235 1,800 151,255 Pleiku 1,210 11,640 1,950 14,800 Puh Cat, LZ Hammond 29,700 7,210 0 36,910 Qui Nhon 53,215 1,800 4,125 59,140 Song Cau 5,650 55 0 5,705 Tuy An 13,215 3,740 0 16,955 Tuy Hoa 29,565 4,485 0 34,050 1,054,406 III Corps - 4,086,229 Location Orange White Blue Total Gallons An Loc 77,000 79,830 0 156,830 Ben Cat 87,250 83,640 20,105 190,995 Ben Hoa 35,045 124,525 3,950 163,520 Cholon 320 0 0 320 Cu Chi 59,150 67,540 14,105 140,795 Dau Tieng (Michelin) 32,370 45,800 3,800 81,770 Dien Duc, Firebase Elaine 66,850 25,800 0 92,350 Duc Hoa 750 0 0 750 Firebase Di An 6,000 0 1,595 7,595 Firebase Frenzel 13,445 57,560 900 71,905 Firebase Jewel, LZ Snuffy 219,550 146,010 7,300 372,860 Firebase Mace 34,280 23,350 730 58,360 Katum 299,420 239,395 20,000 558,815 Lai Khe 57,120 22,300 1,800 81,220 Loc Ninh 46,660 103,710 1,800 152,170 Long Binh, Firebase Concord 13,445 57,560 0 71,005 LZ Bearcat 17,840 75,470 0 93,310 LZ Fish Nook 44,000 23,800 0 67,800 LZ Schofield 38,640 17,210 7,800 63,650 Nha Be (Navy Base) 119,725 121,925 6,000 247,650 Nui Ba Den, Firebase Carolin 50,020 66,500 2,100 118,620 Phouc Vinh 484,383 146,576 12,810 643,769 Phu Chong 39,848 62,230 12,055 114,130 Phu Loi 79,000 83,430 0 162,430 Qua Viet 50,610 5,600 3,500 59,710 Quan Loi 44,190 34,300 0 78,490 Saigon No Data Song Be 1,900 9,220 0 11,120 Tan Son Nhut 6,320 0 1,595 7,915 Tay Ninh 720 3,225 600 4,545 Trang Bang 32,365 39,560 6,000 77,925 Vo Dat, Firebase Nancy 14,180 29,100 0 43,280 Vung Tau 7,350 0 0 7,350 Xuan Loc 23,865 58,750 660 83,275 4,086,229 IV Corps - 669,534 Location Orange White Blue Total Gallons Ben Luc 45,900 14,838 0 60,738 Ben Tre 24,800 24,750 0 49,550 Can Tho 15,160 13,915 11,685 40,760 Cao Lanh 1,875 2,935 830 5,640 Dong Tam 5,870 605 165 6,640 Firebase Grand Can(yon?) 0 1,540 0 1,540 Firebase Moore 9,820 0 0 9,820 Ham Long 3,275 1,620 0 4,895 Moc Hoa 12,400 6,590 0 18,990 My Tho 13,320 7,316 965 21,601 Nam Can 150,345 64,295 0 214,640 Phnom 0 184 0 184 Phu Quoc 19,000 0 0 19,000 Rach Gia 0 2,155 0 2,155 Seafloat 4,700 0 0 4,700 Soc Trang 3,410 2,391 1,280 7,081 Tan An 89,550 36,450 0 126,000 Tieu Con 8,700 0 0 8,700 Tra Vinh 9,885 8,000 0 17,885 Vinh Loi 30,010 0 0 30,010 Vinh Long 8,360 9,755 890 19,005 669,534 Description TCDD (Dioxin) Amounts Agent Orange 1.77 to 40 ppm Agent Blue (Purple) 32.8 to 45 ppm Agent Red (Pink) 65.6 ppm Agent White (Green) 65.6 ppm Silvex 1 to 70 ppm 2,4,5-T (Current) 0.1 ppm or lessr your indulgence.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 08:54:25 (MDT)

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Ron came by work yesterday,we did our usual , talking and ignoring customers.Ron said he is going to try to do "pop a top" wensday as well. That tornado that did all the damage here,was in Rons backyard as well. House behind his suffered damage,his didnt.Doesnt get any closer than that. Hey Ray, missing your post,how are you doing,and as someone ask before, did the air conditioner installation go well? Sue, you going to be at the "pop a top" wensday when we all meet?
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 08:00:02 (MDT)

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roger that, over.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 15:35:16 (MDT)

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If you can't come go to pop a top come over to the hotel later if you can the kool aids are on me. I was wondering if I could borrow a cooler and I would get some ice and cokes for the room in case some one would like to come up and refresh them selves. hehehehehehehe Clear left and be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 10:30:19 (MDT)

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Hi ya Rick, I havent seen my schedual for that wensday yet, but should be posted any day. I will try and beg or whatever it takes to get that wensday off, or work a short shift.It would please me greatly to have you and your friend accompany me to the pop a top. alvis. 71/72. Sounding like a better time more and more.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 04:10:58 (MDT)

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Aleax It was great talking to you on the phone. Foley was the only one I have talked to from the early days of the 129th. As you know Don Cline lived about ten miles from me at Maiden. I never saw or talked to him. I am sorry to hear he was killed, I should have called him befor because Ray told me wahere he lived, just to busy with other things. Sorry to hear about your foot, maybe they will find out what is wrong with it before to long. It took Doctors two years to find my lung cancer. It showed up on all the x-rays for over two years befor anyone read them right. Lost part of my right lung, but made it thru ok. They still don't know who shot Don, Hope the find then befor to long. Would like to go to the reunion but can't get off from work,maybe I can make the next one. Someone asked if l went to the tractor show at Denver, NC. Yes, I only liave about five miles away. If anyone comes to it let know I would love to meet the and talk old times. I found a e-mail from William Shillito, who lives in Conover NC which I am going to call and see if he would like to ge together some time. I think he was waith the uni;t in 70 or 71. There is so many things I awould like to say but don't have time. It is so good to know you guys are out there. Will my e-mail working again this week. Thanks again and keep; the faith. Roger
Roger L Cress
Sherrills Ford, NC USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 21:46:53 (MDT)

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Fred, I am leaving here the 18th, long ride, i cross on the ferry ( lake Michigan) 1pm the 21st. Should get to Kals' place that evening, maybe spend 22nd there, Ride to pop-a-top 23rd, maybe overnight there, ride into Indy 24th am. Have reservations for Hotel 24-26 for Shadow & I. Trying to leave myself plenty of time. >> smitty
Jim westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 21:40:58 (MDT)

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Fred I am coming in at 1:40 pm I was wondering if you might have some room for two more to go to pop a ptop I am bringing my buddy who also is airborne and a grunt. Two rotor heads and two grunts what a group.??????? *If possible we will be at the hotel. What time are you leaving. be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 18:52:52 (MDT)

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hey Mark, put me in the contacts also. I have been asking for years and its never there.Animal,my addy is 881 Seabreeze Dr.,Avon Indiana.46123. Not trying to steal Rons thunder, just giving you a "plan B.". Smitty, you guys going to spend the night at Marks place ? Am thinking of having my buddy (nam grunt and airborne but I dont hold that against him) drive up with me so I can return home the same night.No,I dont plan to be sober.Animal, like you, I hated the thought of being on the ground..brrr.Kinda funny isnt it, they hated flying and we hated walking.Aint met a grunt yet that didnt say thanks guys, for being there when we needed you and times we didnt.They KNEW they could depend on us and we were their link ,their life line.Smitty, when you leaving? Yes, we all have a cell phone here but I dont know my number,chuckle. Will find out and give you susans and mine too.Less than 3 weeks till lz indy.
alvis
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 16:34:33 (MDT)

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Robbie & all, sorry the contacts e-mail has changed & is below. Mark can you get it changed in the contact section? thanks, >> smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@bresnan.net>
Sheridan, wy USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 16:11:52 (MDT)

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Robbie, Kal & I will be coming to the Pop-a-Top together from his place in Mi. Wednesday, will meet you guys there, should be a good Ride in & a great time. Fred Alvis may come over & Shadow may make it as well. If either of you has a cell Phone, send me the # by e-mail as i will have a cell with me. in the contacts is correct. Thanks & getting antsy>> smitty
Jim Westwang 71-72
Sheridan, wy USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 16:08:35 (MDT)

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Max: Need your new email!!! Thanks
Alex <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 15:55:20 (MDT)

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Flight: Checked in at the VHCMA office and to date we have about 22 whom have pre registered from the 129th. Of coarse alot will sin up when they arrive. Alot of new names on the list. Take Care and see you all in Indy. Alex
Alex
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 15:51:07 (MDT)

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Rob ;>))
Gently
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 15:21:46 (MDT)

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Cherry, and anyone else who might recognize Mike Solar who was a pilot 69 time frame. I just got off the phone with him and he is planning on going to the reunion and will be there on Thursday, and maybe Friday. Mike and i shared a ride down a mountain one day in Bulldog 465. I am truly sorry for the recent death of Don Cline. Jim Westwang, I wanted to let you know that Pete Rhome and myself will be arriving at Pop-A-Top Wednesday and planning on good ride on to the Reunion with the rest that show up there. Kal, you're going to meet there right? I also recognized the name of a Brother "Gary Rickett" in the quarterly newsletter that i was in AIT with at Ft. Rucker. I contacted him last year and he remembered our times at Rucker. He was with the 155th AHC. He said he might join, but probably won't make the reunion this year. Ray, how you doing Brother? See you in Indy. Hope the rest of the flight is ok...Judith, almost done......Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 13:24:06 (MDT)

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Alvis, I'd like to get this package in the mail, would you send me your address? .........Dave P: I'm looking forward to meeting your Mom. Regards, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 13:09:10 (MDT)

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Welcome Home Roger. Was great talking to you and sharing some of the early times of the 129th. Get you computer back on line. friday was a bad day. No news on the problem I have with my left foot. A cast or the boot might be next. But, Doctors still don't have clue on what causing the problem. Then friday afternoon i went by The VHCMA office. I have to paint the tail rotor blade for the reunion. I picked up a newsletter thats being sent to VHCMA members. And seen the obituarie of 129th Brother Donald Cline. I sent it to Rainer And Glenn. Glenn and I tried to contact him while at the Charoltte reunion. But, never heard from him. Sorry Max I didn't send the info to you. Wasn't thinking to clear. Now I know why these reunions are so important to me. You never know when your caled to the fiddlers Green. See all my Brothers and Sisters in Indy. A;so Lou hang in there. Just like our Ray. It will come around for you. You have a family of 129th Brothers and Sisters standing beside you. Alex 129th 65-68
Alex
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 09:28:04 (MDT)

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I was not really that close to Don Cline, what upset me was the way he died after all we went through in the 129th
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 08:17:06 (MDT)

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Rainer, I'm so sorry. Such a tragic end-but please be careful with this information. You are important to us, and we want you to be OK. Our prayers to you and the family of our lost Veteran. Lou, are you working with the VFW or DAV for your claim? Sometimes they help, sometimes they don't:I've heard good and bad stories. Give it a try, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain at this point. The D-Day stories and interviews this weekend were heart-wrenching. I wish i would have spoken with my father more about WWII-he was an M.P. in Berlin in 1945. At our POW-MIA Missing Man Table Ceremony on Memorial Day, I asked a recent recipient of the Purple Heart, Iraq, to participate, and he did. But more importantly he was sharing stories with Joe and I about his time in Walter Reed Hospital, and had nothing but praise for the Vietnam Veterans who helped him and the others while he was there: steaks, malts, asisstance, encouragement!! He said all the Iraqi War Veterans coming out of Reed have nothing but praise for you guys. You are in my heart-Gently
Gently
USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 08:13:43 (MDT)

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My apologies for not mentioning the loss of Mr. Cline, Rainier Bauer, sounds like you were close to him. I am sorry for your loss & the loss of a member.>> respects>> smitty
jim Westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 21:45:01 (MDT)

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Flame, i will be coming right by your place & may very well take you up on the overnight,you are about 30 mi N of Mitchell? are you in the phone book in woonsocket? Must be a small town, hell, i come over every year & hunt Pheasants at gregory & burke. Year before last went to the new Cabelas in Mitchell. Sure is nice. anyway, I am preparing as Kal has said & will leave i think on the 18th. I am not trying to set any records for riding distance in a day as my health is compromised but look forward to seeing me the 18th whether i stay or not but i would kind of count on it as that is about 400 from here & going through the badlands, the sun will rip the hide off a guy. Thanks for the invite, welcome to the new folks who have found the site. Hope it helps you to regain contact. It has for me. I am getting antsy to go & getting the Harley ready.Looking forward to seeing you all, & yes Flame with Rapid close to the faces & deadwood, I am sure it would be a kick for all & Rapid could hold the reunion fine. >> respects to all & Salute to president Reagan>> Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 21:36:15 (MDT)

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Greg, if all else fails,send it to me.alvis
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 20:11:35 (MDT)

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Smitty: Don't know which way you are going to Indy but if you get close to Woonsocket, SD you are welcome for an overnite with us. We need to submit Rapid City or some other city up north here to host a reunion. Don't know if one has ever been this far north. We could show them what living in God's country is really like. If we don't see you, have a safe trip and we will see you in Indy. Darwin----------Flame
Darwin----Flame
USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 17:46:54 (MDT)

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Ron, I plead insanity. I wrote down your address, deleted your email, and then lost my notes. Would you send it again please? Smitty, Thanks for your offer, but it would be better to send the package directly to Indy since you're on a bike. ......D-Day....Can you imagine jumping into chest high surf with 70 pounds of gear while all hell is breaking loose around you? Most grunts I've talked to were terrified of flying in helicopters, but my greatest fear in country was ending up on the ground. My hat's off to the ground pounders and airbourne troops of WW2. Greg tatu@gte.net
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 12:46:14 (MDT)

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have a friend of mine that has two harleys for sale. Saw him yesterday after many months of not seeing him. 2 years ,or so,he had one of those annoying little scooters as well.He was going around a hairpin curve( on the scooter) when he hit some gravel on the road.head injurys resulted,many months in the hospital.Yesterday ,after talking with him, in his wheelchair,I ask if he will ever ride again. No was his answer.He cannot function that high again.He has a soft tail with 12 k miles on it,wants 13 k for it.also has a 92 sportster,wants 45 hundred for that one.The soft tail is stock while the sportster has been "souped up" with cam and vales, ect.Just thought I would pass this along in case anyone coming into indy reunion was interested.
alvis
USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 10:25:03 (MDT)

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slow hand salute,Ronald Regan. You were a good one.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 21:12:48 (MDT)

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slow hand salute , Don Cline.RIP our brother.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 21:05:59 (MDT)

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Right now emptying a bottle of Scotch, sorry if I messed up previous, I feel like crap right now
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 20:39:23 (MDT)

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I hate to have to print this , Alex sent it to me yesterday Source: HANNAH MITCHELL, GAIL SMITH-ARRANTS, DIANNE WHITACRE, RONNIE GLASSBERG, STAFF WRITERS, ASSOCIATED PRESS *North Carolina No suspects in shooting death of Maiden man CATAWBA COUNTY The Catawba County Sheriff's Office had no suspects Tuesday in the case of a Maiden man found shot to death in his bed Monday night. Clifton Donald Cline, 59, of Jack Whitener Road was shot in the back of the head, Maj. Coy Reid said. Cline's sister told investigators she found Cline, a BellSouth retiree, covered up in bed in the home where he lived alone. There were no signs of forced entry, Published on February 18, 2004, Page 2B, Charlotte Observer, One more of us will be missed.
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 20:35:41 (MDT)

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Welcome home Roger. I got to company about the time you left to come home. Don Cline lives about 25 miles from you at Maiden N.C. Do you ever go to the antique tractor show in July in Denver? I live in Kinston which is about an hour from the ocean. Kal and Smitty, take it easy on your ride to the reunion.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 19:17:10 (MDT)

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Welcome to the family we have here, Roger! Isn't it amazing how many find their way to this place? I guess the numbers are impressive and keep increasing! Kal, I'm glad I'm not the only one who gets Memorial Day and Veteran's Day inadvertently confused. And who is FYI?
Sue
Celina, OH USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 14:04:18 (MDT)

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well flight, its time to help another brother fight the V A tiger. Lou. I am sure someone out there can help you.
alvis
USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 08:21:15 (MDT)

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Morning Flight just got home from for the weekend. Got bad news from the VA again, my claim for PTSD has been denied once again. If anyone from the 129th remembers me from Jan70-Dec 70 as a member of Snowsnake 1 please let me know, the VA wants proof from anyone who can verify that I was a member of the recovery team that went out in hostile areas to recover downed ships. please e-mail at LOU RAGS 1 @ aol.com
LOU RAGS
Dover, DE USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 00:08:02 (MDT)

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ROGER: Welcome! I was a gunner on Slick 868 while you were there — June of '66 to March of '67. Flew a lot with Lt. Dodge, Lt. Wallace, WO Wells, WO Leach, etc., all of whom you probably remember. Don Cline was my crew chief. Good to see that you found the web site, and look forward to hearing more from you. Bite and Strike!
Max W. (Sgt. Twiggy)
USA - Friday, June 04, 2004 at 21:37:42 (MDT)

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Guys this note is for your spouse/girlfriend/companion. The ladies luncheon will be on Saturday, June 26th at 12:00 noon. All ladies are encouraged to attend this special luncheon that is set up each year for them. If you attended the luncheon last year, you know to bring a small gift for the raffle that we have now made an annual event of. If you have not attended the ladies luncheon before, I encourage you to try it just once as I know you will be welcomed with open arms. This is our time to discuss different things and it helps us to get acquainted and have new friends when we leave to head home. Please, I ask you to try it this year. For all of you regulars, I will see you in Indy. You can contact me at the email address listed. Judith, Dee Bauer, Dee Jackson, Debbie, Carolyn, Sharon, Cheryl, Claudia, Jamie and the rest of you 129th ladies don't forget your small gift..... Liz (CSM to Alex)
Liz Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
USA - Friday, June 04, 2004 at 17:12:50 (MDT)

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Hey!!.. Welcome Home and aboard to Roger Cress!!!.. Glad you found us!! I tried to find Sherrills Ford in the Atlas and they must have overlooked it.. Where in NC are you located? JW Wilson is in Kinston and I was looking to see how far away that was. By the way, Hi JW!! It will be good to see you!! Boy, some great WX here now and I sure hope it holds. I sent "Smitty" all the directions on finding me and we sure are looking foreward to the ride to the reunion!!, with a stop at the Pop-A-Top on the way... If there are any of you that haven't made up your minds on coming, I must say that it has made a BIG difference in my life after I attended my first one in Louisville, four years ago . This will be my fourth one and I look foreward to many more. Sue, It was probably me that made you call Memorial Day Veterans Day.. I guess I get the two mixed up at times and really wanted to get "FYI" going.. I would think he would be able to "read between the lines".. Thats it for now.. Think Indy!!!.. B Cn U... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu(at)email.com>
Saint Joseph, Mich USA - Friday, June 04, 2004 at 15:33:43 (MDT)

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WELCOME HOME Roger, as you can see from the previous post I have a site for our guys. if you have any pic's you would like me to post please send them to me at the e-mail address link on my page. BTW I got the engine in my trike Monday, now all I have to do is get the rest of it finished. :-)Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 23:31:41 (MDT)

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Welcome Home Roger. You have found family here. We have posted a Memorial for Butch at www.virtualwall.org, please visit it. Also, Don Miller, a 129er, has created a web site for all of our fallen friends and brothers of the 129th. The address is donald_6.tripod.com/129thmiakia1.htm. You can cut and paste the address in the "address" line to get there. Fred, LOL!! Gentle thoughts to all-Gently
Gently
USA - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 12:30:46 (MDT)

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Roger, Welcome home! Gale
Gale Beard 67-68
Clinton, In US of A - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 07:57:05 (MDT)

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welcome home and to the site Roger. alvis,71/72
alvis
USA - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 04:15:52 (MDT)

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I was with the 129th from Sept 65 to Aug 66 as CE on ac 747. My platoon sgt was Bob Sanford. I came up from Sigion with some other em that did not come over with the unit.There was Judd Shaffer,Dwayne French,Rodger Hodge, Lee Copper which I can remenber. Our platoon leader was Maj. Stewart who was tranfered shortly after we arrived. I was on the flight that SSG Sanford was wounded in the neck. I was best friends with Sp-5 Butch Gilliam who was shot down in the pass from Fan Rang. I was on leave when I got a letter from a Red Cross Girl we both knew that he been killed. He and Capt. Wedzell were the first KIA's of the unit. I serviced with Ray Foley in 129th and again jin 68 and 69 in the 71st at Chu Lia. He was good friends with Butch also. I talk to him some now and then. I would like to hear from anyone who servered with the unit during this or any time. I do not have an e-mail at this time, will post as soon as i have one. My phone number 704-483-7812 home, 828-465-2880 work. I work third sheift at a filter company, call me at work Sunday thru Thrus from 10:00pm to 5:00 am. Would love to hear from Dwayne French, Judd Shaffer, or Bob Sanford. Bob if you read this do you remember the chair you guys build for SFC Kahn the maint. nco. I think about the poker games we had. I will get off of here. Welcome home brothers and May God Bless and Watch Over Each and Every one of You and Your Families. I was in the 129th at Fort Bragg before going to ATC school at Fort Rucker.
Roger L Cress
Sherrills Ford, NC USA - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 01:52:51 (MDT)

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all I am premitted to say at this time is...congrads Joe (gentlys Joe).
alvis
USA - Wednesday, June 02, 2004 at 10:01:26 (MDT)

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Thanks Dave!!!!!!!!
Randy
USA - Wednesday, June 02, 2004 at 09:23:26 (MDT)

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Thanks for the FYI...hope everyone knew I meant Memorial Day in my posting of yesterday. LONG weekend, lots of things going on. My mind slipped for a minute. Sure sign of old age. My apologies for the error.
Sue
Celina, OH USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 16:58:02 (MDT)

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Hey Dave, good idea, sorry it didnt pan out. great email you sent me about patton.Gale, glad you made it,was a little worried it would fly out the back.You should have taken the 3 pillars too..chuckling.Gas is down to $1.87 at wall mart here. Hope it continues down intill the reunion. glad you stoppeed by Gale, always a pleasure to see you.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 15:34:40 (MDT)

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Alvis, got home with the peg board ok.....thanks again. The shortcut didn't work due to an accident or something on Dan Jones Rd.....lined up all the back. Gale
Gale
USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 12:43:00 (MDT)

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Morning, Flight. I just received this response from the Army Aviation Museum at Ft. Rucker. I asked them for information on the lineage of the 129th in an effort to help Randy Burnett with the Adopt-A-Helicopter-Unit mission. Any ideas as to where to go from here? Dave -- 1. I checked with the official keepers of records on this kind of thing. Here's the information they gave me: The 129th Aviation Company inactivated on 16 January 1988 and has remained inactive since that time. The personnel and equipment assets appear to have been transferred to Company A, 3d Battalion, 160th Aviation, but there was no transfer of lineage. So there's no successor unit that has the colors or campaign credits of the 129th. 2. Ways of supporting the current troops are probably limited mainly by people's imaginations. The people going out of flight school today are the first since VN who have a reasonably high likelihood of going into a unit that's either in or going into combat. All of them go through the Museum for a class on their history. So donations related to the people, units, and events of your era have potential value in helping tell the story of what Army Aviation is, does, and why that's important. Sometimes small, personal items are as valuable to help tell that story as aircraft. Among your associates there may be any number of things that could be valuable. Obviously you could just pick an Aviation unit and send encouragement to them. I'd think anyone would appreciate that. 3. Thanks for your interest and service. Dr. Jim Williams Aviation Branch Historian 334-255-9151; DSN 558-9151 historian@rucker.army.mil Office: Building 9204, Technical Library Mail to: Historian, U.S. Army Aviation Center, Building 114, 453 Novosel Street, Fort Rucker, AL 36362-5105
Dave Powers
USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 08:18:35 (MDT)

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