Gently and Liz, My most humble apologies. I had no idea you were interested in joining my elite force. I would have responded sooner but I was up to my ears with one of the new recruits. You do realize that this is a serious undertaking. Just because your significant other is a close friend of mine, or may hold a high political office....for the sake of moral in the unit, I can't make exceptions.You gals will have to pass the same rigorous standards as the others. The good news is I do have room for just a few more freedom fighters so if you will send me a picture (an 8x10 glossy is preferred). If you do not have an 8x10, several Polaroid's will be just as good. You will also have to pass a very intense physical. Call me to schedule a time and place. The training is also very intense. Thankfully I have had numerous offers of assistance. One thing I can't understand. GI's usually hate PT, but for some strange reason I have had many offer to help lead the platoon with PT. Huummmmmm. Once the guys find out that you are also members I am sure I will get many, many more officers for help. I await your response, especially the pictures. Freedom Fighter Ron
Che Garvia Paye <ronpaye@ff.org>
USA - Friday, November 29, 2002 at 08:49:53 (MST)
HELLO FLIGHT... I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A GRATE THANKS GIVEN,, WE ALL DID..WANT TO THANK RON PAYE FOR CALLING YESTERDAD THANKS,,,, WELL YOU ALL TAKE CARE MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS...ABROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET , MD USA - Friday, November 29, 2002 at 07:48:38 (MST)
Gently: Like you, I can't believe Ron has put us all on the "naked" web for the entire 129th group to see!!!! Unbelievable isn't it??? Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. Gently, I do like your suggestion for Christmas and as Alex stated before, count us in. Take care and try your best not to let Ron Paye get his hands on another one of our group pictures!!!! God Bless and love to all. Liz
Liz Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 18:42:48 (MST)
Flight, My best to all. I hope everyone has a quiet and thankful turkey day. Eat too much, drink a bit, good friends and family. I will raise my glass to our missing, and to you all. Let me include one of my favorite bit of prose. I think it is fitting to share it today. Bury Me With Soldiers > I've played a lot of roles in life; > I've met a lot of men, > I've done a lot of things I'd like to think > I wouldn't do again. > And though I'm young, I'm old enough > To know someday I'll die. > And to think about what lies beyond, > Beside whom I would lie. > Perhaps it doesn't matter much; > Still if I had my choice, > I'd want a grave 'mongst > Soldiers when > At last death quells my voice. > I'm sick of the hypocrisy > Of lectures of the wise. > I'll take the man, with all the flaws, > Who goes, though scared, and dies. > The troops I knew were commonplace > They didn't want the war; > They fought because their fathers and > Their fathers had before. > They cursed and killed and wept... > God knows > They're easy to deride... > But bury me with men like these; > They faced the guns and died. > It's funny when you think of it, > The way we got along. > We'd come from different worlds > To live in one where no one belongs, > I didn't even like them all; > I'm sure they'd all agree. > Yet I would give my life for them, > I know some did for me.. > So bury me with soldiers, please, > Though much maligned they be. > Yes, bury me with soldiers, for > I miss their company. > We'll not soon see their likes again; ========================== This poem was written by: SSG (E5) Charlie Fink 199th Light Infantry Brigade 69-70 Love and Brotherhood. Ron Paye PS. Gently ((((My chest is bursting with pride(don't get any visuals Sweet Checks))))) And a nice chest it is:>))))) To everyone who has offered to assist me in my new undertaking and help train my new platoon, I thank you. I may need a few good men to maybe "go in" a few places before me. To anyone who didn't get my email about my new job as platoon leader,,,let me know and I will send info to you.
Ron Paye <ronpaye@comcast.net>
Indy, IN USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 10:34:47 (MST)
THANKSGIVING?????????????????????Wow.........what a family we have here!!!!!!!!!!....you people are SO special to me!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......so much to be thankful in my life......damn you guys.......ya make me cry!!!!!!!!!!!!!...........HEY....the gift idea is a wonderful thing........We're in!!!!!!!!!!!!So Gently???.you be the one in charge of this?????....Rick E. Mentioned something like this to me just the other week. Not only can we raise funds for one of our Families for the holidays, But even if we can raise enough, we might be able to help one that might need some funds to make it to one of our reunions!!!!!!!!!!!Hey Ron Paye, I volunteer to lead the Jumping Jacks part of the morning training for the "PLATOON"........Each and everyone of you, and your loved ones, where ever they me be, have a wonderful, wonderful Thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Dee and I love you all very much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! .......always a brother...................Mark
Mark&Dee and the kids and dogs <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 10:15:34 (MST)
all have a good, safe thanksgiving day.
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 08:05:45 (MST)
Judith, I will send the money shortly. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Katharine <fricabeunme@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 07:56:46 (MST)
Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving, I recently got this from a friend & wanted to share it with all: > >> Here's one of the best articles eye ever read...if it does't choke you > >> up...you're from another planet. > >> We have Bradley's book - FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS--- definitely recommended > >> reading. > >> > >> > >> > >> FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS COMMENTARY > >> Each year, I am hired to go to Washington, DC, with the eighth grade > >> class from Clinton, Wis., where I grew up, to videotape their trip. I > >> greatly enjoy visiting our nation's capitol, and each year I take some > >> special memories back with me. This fall's trip was especially memorable. > >> On the last night of our trip we stopped at the Iwo Jima Memorial. > >> This memorial is the largest bronze statue in the world and depicts one > of > >> the most famous photographs in history-that of the six brave soldiers > >> raising the American flag at the top of a rocky hill on the island of Iwo > >> Jima, Japan, during WW II. > > >> Over one hundred students and chaperones piled off the buses and > >> headed towards the memorial. > >> I noticed a solitary figure at the base of the statue, and as I got > >> closer he asked, "Where are you guys from?" I told him that we were from > >Wisconsin. "Hey, I'm a cheesehead, too! Come gather around Cheeseheads, and > I'll > >> tell you a story." > >> It was James Bradley, who was in Washington, DC, to speak at the > >> memorial the following day. He was there that night to say good night to > his > >> dad, who has since passed away. He was just about to leave when he saw > the > >> buses pull up. I videotaped him as he spoke to us, and received his > permission to > >> share what he said from my videotape. It is one thing to tour the > >> incredible monuments filled with history in Washington, DC, but it is > quite > >> another to get the kind of insight we received that night. > >> When all had gathered around he reverently began to speak. Here are > >> his words that night: > >> "My name is James Bradley and I'm from Antigo, Wisconsin. My dad is > >> on that statue, and I just wrote a book called Flags of Our Fathers, > which is > >> #5 on the New York Times Best Seller list right now. It is the story of > the > >> six boys you see behind me. Six boys raised the flag. > >> "The first guy putting the pole in the ground is Harlon Block. Harlon > >> was an all-state football player. He enlisted in the Marine Corps with > all > >> the senior members of his football team. They were off to play another > >> type of game. A game called 'War.' > >> "But it didn't turn out to be a game. Harlon, at the age of 21, died > >> with his intestines in his hands. I don't say that to gross you out, I > say > >> that because there are generals who stand in front of this statue and > talk > >> about the glory of war. You guys need to know that most of the boys in > Iwo > >> Jima were 17, 18, and 19 years old. > >> He pointed to the statue. "You see this next guy? That's Rene Gagnon > >> from New Hampshire. If you took Rene's helmet off at the moment this > photo > >> was taken, and looked in the webbing of that helmet, you would find a > >> photograph-a photograph of his girlfriend. Rene put that in there > >> for protection, because he was scared. He was 18 years old. Boys won the > >> battle of Iwo Jima. Boys. Not old men. > >> "The next guy here, the third guy in this tableau, was Sergeant Mike > >> Strank. > >> Mike is my hero. He was the hero of all these guys. They called him > >> the 'old man' because he was so old. He was already 24. When Mike would > >> motivate his boys in training camp, he didn't say, 'Let's go kill some > Japanese' > >> or 'Let's die for our country.' He knew he was talking to little boys. > >> Instead he would say, 'You do what I say, and I'll get you home to your > mothers.' > >> "The last guy on this side of the statue is Ira Hayes, a Pima Indian > >> from Arizona. Ira Hayes walked off Iwo Jima. He went into the White House > >> with my dad. President Truman told him, 'You're a hero.' He told > reporters, > >> 'How can I feel like a hero when 250 of my buddies hit the island with me > and > >> only 27 of us walked off alive?' > >> "So you take your class at school. 250 of you spending a year > >> together having fun, doing everything together. Then all 250 of you hit > the > >> beach, but only 7 of your classmates walk off alive. That was Ira Hayes. > He > >> had images of horror in his mind. Ira Hayes died dead drunk, face down at > >> the age of 32 -- ten years after this picture was taken. > >> "The next guy, going around the statue, is Franklin Sousley from > >> Hilltop, Kentucky. A fun-lovin' hillbilly boy. His best friend, who is > now 70, > >> told me, 'Yeah, you know, we took two cows up on the porch of the Hilltop > >> General Store. Then we strung wire across the stairs so the cows couldn't > get > >down. Then we fed them Epsom salts. Those cows crapped all night.' Yes, he > >> was a fun-lovin' hillbilly boy. Franklin died on Iwo Jima at the age of > 19. > >> "When the telegram came to tell his mother that he was dead, it went > >> to the Hilltop General Store. A barefoot boy ran that telegram up to his > >> mother's farm. The neighbors could hear her scream all night and into the > morning. > >> The neighbors lived a quarter of a mile away. > >> "The next guy, as we continue to go around the statue is my dad, John > >> Bradley from Antigo, Wisconsin, where I was raised. My dad lived > >> until 1994, but he would never give interviews. When Walter Cronkite's > producers, > >> or the New York Times would call, we were trained as little kids to say, > >> 'No, I'm sorry sir, my dad's not here. He is in Canada fishing. No, there > is > >> no phone there, sir. No, we don't know when he is coming back.' My dad > never > >> fished or even went to Canada. Usually, he was sitting there right at the > >> table eating his Campbell's soup. But we had to tell the press that he > was > >> out fishing. He didn't want to talk to the press. You see, my dad didn't > >> see himself as a hero. Everyone thinks these guys are heroes, because > >> they are in a photo and a monument. My dad knew better. He was a medic. > John > >> Bradley from Wisconsin was a caregiver. In Iwo Jima he probably held over > 200 > >> boys as they died. And when boys died in Iwo Jima, they writhed and > >> screamed in pain."When I was a little boy, my third grade teacher told me > that my dad > >> was a hero. When I went home and told my dad that, he looked at me and > >> said, 'I want you always to remember that the heroes of Iwo Jima are the > guys > >> who did not come back. Did NOT come back.' > >> "So, that's the story about six nice young boys. Three died on Iwo > >> Jima, and three came back as national heroes. Overall 7,000 boys died on > Iwo > >> Jima in the worst battle in the history of the Marine Corps. My voice is > >> giving out, so I will end here. > >> "Thank you for your time." Suddenly, the monument wasn't just a big old > piece of metal with a > >> flag sticking out of the top. It came to life before our eyes with the > >> heartfelt words of a son who did indeed have a father who was a hero. > Maybe not > >> a hero for the reasons most people would believe, but a hero nonetheless. > >> We need to remember that God created this vast and glorious world for > >> us to live in, freely, but also at great sacrifice. Let us never forget > >> from the Revolutionary War to the Gulf War and all the wars in between > that > >> sacrifice was made for our freedom. Remember to pray praises for this > great > >> country of ours and also pray for those still in murderous unrest around > the world. > >> Stop, and thank God for being alive at someone else's sacrifice. > >> God Bless you all and please remember that frredom isn't free! > >> -- John E. Cleckner, Sr., Redding, Calif. Yours as always; smitty
Jim Westwang <westwang@attbi.com>
Sheridan, Wy. USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 15:57:06 (MST)
Judith!! Wonderful idea - count us in and the check is going out in the mail this afternoon to you. God's blessings upon everyone for this Thanksgiving holiday. Jamie and Ron DeBates
Jamie DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 13:19:38 (MST)
Ok my gentle friends-the gift giving is a go! And you are wonderful! My address(for cash gifts) is Judith Singer, 2228 N. 115th Street, Wauwatosa, WI., 53226. Please make the checks out to me. You can also send suggestions there or email them to me(regarding the friend((s))you suggest we help). I will keep an accounting of the cash donations and turn the names, donation amounts over to Alex in a couple of weeks. (I will ask "Mr. I don't want to sign in" to write a letter to the family or persons we are going to help. Knowing him, he won't sign it, but that's OK because none of us will either. It will be from the 129th family. I simply thought that because it was his idea he should compose the letter.) If you do not want your name on the donor list, let me know when you send your check to me. If there is anything I learned from our platoon leader, Sweet Cheeks Ron Paye, it's how to keep a secret(ya, sure..sending our platoon photo all over the Web!!!) This is very exciting! What a great idea "Mr. I don't want to sign in" And what great follow through flight. My chest is bursting with pride(don't get any visuals Sweet Checks) being part of you. Always there for our Veterans-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
What a group of people!!!, USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 12:47:04 (MST)
Gently Hey!!! count me in!! To help someone for Christmas or anytime. It makes me proud of all of you out there. Your good people with BIG HEARTS. Fred hope you have a safe trip to Ohio. Won't be able to make it back for a while. But, Liz and I was able to see the autumn leaves at there peak. Gently let me know more of what I can do to help. Alex
Alex <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Mempis, Tn USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 11:48:37 (MST)
HELLO GENTLY I WOULD LOVE TO HELP A BROTHER OR A SISTER IF YOU DONT MIND I SEND TO U IT WILL BE A POSTAL MONEY ORDER IN YOUR NAME SO U CAN CASG AND PUT WITH REST OK ... TAKE CARE .. AND I THANK YOU ALL FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET , MD USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 10:24:38 (MST)
Flight, I have mentioned in the past this gentleman of the 129th who wants no credit for the wonderful things he and his wife, unbenounced to you and often myself, do. He emailed me this morning with a wonderful Christmas idea: if we know of a 129th family in need we could help them. If a small donation was made by those who could afford to, and suggestions made as to whom we could help..we could help one of our own this Christmas. There are over 200 of us and $10-$20 would add up beautifully. I would be happy to take suggestions as to whom, and of course, more than happy to take your money-but it could also be done by someone else, perhaps Alex or Mark..whomever. And thank you "Mr. Won't Sign In" for the suggestion. I know our group will approve and come through. Give me some feed back Flight. Always there for our Veterans-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 09:39:52 (MST)
Fred, I still have my menue from our 67 Thanksgiving. We had a pretty good spread also that year. I also still carry my p-38 and even use it once in a while. Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 08:56:15 (MST)
I'm with you Rick! Ron, if you need any volunteers to teach that squad a little "hand to hand" I'm your man!! Gale
Gale <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 08:51:43 (MST)
I am thankful for, and love, each and every one of you. May this Thanksgiving not only fill you stomach, may it also fill your heart. We have much to be thankful for-especially for this site which has brought us all together. With peaceful thoughts-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 08:34:30 (MST)
I want wish to all a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Ron I think you need somebody to train that crew to load the guns and walk the skids. Heeeeeeeeee Be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 08:10:09 (MST)
Thanksgiving....Please have a safe holiday everyone....Alex, I still have the menu`s for Thanksgiving and Xmas 1970, of course most the flight platoons ate late both days, because we all had missions. But it was a little better than C-rations, cooks put down a nice little spread for us those days. Kim and I will be going home for Xmas in Ohio for about 9 days, so looking forward to that. Again have a safe and happy Thanksgiving everyone
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 08:08:10 (MST)
HELLO TO ALL MY BYOTHERS AND SISTERS..ME AND GAIL WANT TOWISK YOU ALL A HAPPY THANKS GIVEN .. MAY THE LOVE THE AND CARING GO ON HERE FOR EVER I KNOW IT HELOED ME A LOT I WENY TO FANILY DR SHE SAID I LOOK MUCH BETTER THAN I DID BEFORE I THANK YOU ALL ENJOY YOUR FAMILTS LOVE YA ALL A BRPTHER ALWAYS RAY AND GAIL
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.CON>
STREET, MD USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 08:06:24 (MST)
Liz and I would like to extend our Thanksgiving wishes to all of you and your famlies. Let's be thankful for having each other and this wonderful site. Also, remember our fallen Brothers and Sisters, whom gave their all!!!! In 1965, Thanksgiving was a long way from home and family. Still hadn't recieved a letter from the states yet. But, the 129th was to have their first Thanksgiving Dinner in Vietnam. We were told of Turkey and all the good stuff for dinner and a movie. Sounded great, better than the c's. But, I wasn't ready for the shock of dehyrated turkey chunks,potatoes that looked like ivory soap flakes. Then, a training movie on VD. That was our elabrate Thaksgiving Dinner 1965. It was different!! Take Care this Holiday, we have alot to be thankful for!!! A Brother Forever Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis , TN USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 07:36:29 (MST)
I can't believe that Ron Paye put our platoon picture out there for all of you to see!!! We're suppose to be a covert group, Ron, using skills many do not have to get inside the enemy's core. We will do anything for our men!!! And now we have been compromised. Damn! Geez Ron! What kind of leader are you going to be? I wouldn't sell your worldly goods to quickly. Anyone out there want to buy a now jobless, defunct platoon? Liz, Jamie, Katherine, Dee, Gail...what are going to do for work now? Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 07:36:28 (MST)
Thanks Katharine. I too would like to wish all of my 129th brothers & sisters and their families a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving. Gale & Debbie
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 07:10:39 (MST)
Happy Thanksgiving. We, as members of the 129, should take a few moments and reflect on our lives and what we are grateful for. We are here and we are together. Some of our brothers are still missing and possibly alone. Let us not forget. (I know we don't) I hope all are safe and enjoying the wonderfulness of home. Take Care and WELCOME HOME. Katharine
Katharine <fricabeunme@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 05:29:38 (MST)
Kim.....don`t get me started on Boy George.... His buddie, Delay(The Hammer), piggybacked several little admendments on that "Homeland Suckurity", I misspelled it on purpose!!!!! Businesses located off shore so they don`t have to pay taxes, and I want to know where that Saudi money went to and how much they knew. It`s all about OIL!!!!! and Jesus didn`t have to tell me not to drive a SUV. And when the smog and pollution from Ohio starts chokin you out up in Maine, I`m sorry brother..........
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 16:38:15 (MST)
Fred, there was an article in yesterday's Lewiston Daily Sun about the VA in Maine. It seems that the waiting list for new patients is 5800 long. almost a YEAR AND A HALF!!!!!!! Mostly due to the nafta shutdown's. WE have two Maine's here. The massachussetts north,and the rusty, closed down mill towns. Thanks to our desire for cheap goods, and good ole corporate profit taking, our shoe shops, tanneries, vegetable canning plants, paper mills, agriculture, textile factories, are shutting down faster than you can say, sucking sound! As in Ross Perot! Now,with the downturn in the economy there are a lot of veterans who are trying to get coverage...sin loi! To echo Judith, I'm glad you got good treatment, I just wish it would be consistent around the country. The treatment is good once one gets in, it's the wait that's killing em'! Meanwhile, boy georgie is busy creating another bureauocracy! Just what we need in the midst of the alphabet soup of government agencies that are supposed to keep us safe from the bad guys, another one to help us watch out for ourselves! Paid for by who? thanks to who's tax cut?
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Me USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 16:06:44 (MST)
Jimmy, you be careful out there, as one of our brothers would say, My Mother just called a told me that Charlie Manson is originally from Kentucky, God I hope I`m not related to him!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 16:05:39 (MST)
FIXIN TO HEAD HER DOWN THE HIGHWAY,,,FRED HEADED TO OHIO,,,DAYTON COLUMBUS AREA AND THEN ON DOWN TO KY,,,,THE OLE DURAMAX NEEDS TO STRECH HER LEGS,,,HAVE A WONDERFUL,SAFE AND HAPPY FAMILY THANKSGIVING,,,TO THE BITE AND STRIKE GANG!!!!!
JIM OLIVER <OLIVER_31683@HOTMAIL.COM>
PEMBROKE, GA USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 15:07:18 (MST)
is why i always had c ration in brass bag mount on machine gun. Always had kind i liked in case i got hungry.And , thanks to flying in that damn well,i nener have trouble now lighting a smoke in the wind. All, please have a safe and happy thanksgiving.me, think i will curl up with a good bottle.maybe watch some foot ball....naa, will make some kids toys out of wood first,then curl up.Every kid needs a toy for xmasand i give them away
alvis <ghoastrider1@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 11:08:26 (MST)
Fred, it should be that way for every Veteran...the problem is, it's not. Glad to hear of your positive experience...count your blessings. I'm in the throws of a letter writing campaign regarding the waiting time in VA hospital Emergency Rooms, so a good story is always welcome! The "word" is, if you have a complaint you take it to your patient rep., if that doesn't get you anywhere you take it to the VA Director at the hospital. Knowing that, I will continue to write, write, write....and keep you posted. Always a sister to our Veternas, Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Hug a Veteran, USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 06:39:49 (MST)
Flight, I went to the VA Hospital in Durham,N.C., It was a good experience, took a little time, but other than that good deal. Treatment was great and so forth, and got my arthritis meds for $7 co-pay, that`s better than most presciption cards!!!! My presciption card for civil service employment was $25 co-pay and had to have generics meds. Vioxx is a $101 a 30 day supply and there is no generic for it. the VA will give me a generic, but it works. Plus they scheduled me for some therapy that will cost almost nothing compared to the Orthopedic doctor I`ve been going to, $186 initial visit and $100 a visit for therapy( you pay up front) and take the gamble of what the PPO will pay. I never understood that concept of...... even if the doctor is on the PPO.....they are going to pay what they want and you pay the rest. I have a Duke University Med School grad for a doctor, Duke is Top 10 Med school in the country!!!!! So I`m a painless happy camper tonight. It`s all good.....But as The Rolling Stones sang......"What a drag it is getting old"........
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh , NC USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 20:29:52 (MST)
Hi flight, steve spencer here again ans i've heard from some of you about attending the 173d/129th xmas party at the pop a top. we are staying at the holiday express (419 586 4919 and the rates are 60.00. pool party starting at 1300 and move to pop a top at 1800. dinner 5.75 all you can eat. (5.00) gag gift exchange to follow and music later. band is used blues. please let me know if you are planning on attending so we have enough food. Ask for airborne xmas party for this rate. if not comming have a safe and great holiday season.
steven m spencer <spence00@bright.net>
elida, ohio USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 10:11:01 (MST)
Dave, I still have my P-38 on my key ring also. Come to think of it, it is the one "material" thing I brought back from VN that I still use. I can't tell you how many cans of coffee I have opened with it at work in the past 30 years. The "youngsters" at work are amazed at how good such a small opener can work. I don't think one of them has ever been hungry or ate his meals cold, out of a can. Maybe that's a good thing. I like Freds idea about asking "vets" if they know what a P-38 is.
Carl Brader <harleydogs@yahoo.com>
Addison, IL USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 06:42:36 (MST)
Fred, no self-respecting air crewman would be caught without his trusty P-38 (I still have mine!). Sometimes you can find them in flea markets and old-time army surplus stores (anyone hear of Henry P. Grogan's War Surplus? - let's see if there are any Patrick F. McManus readers out there). Most of the time they're just the newer (and inferior) kind, the kind that flip open in your pocket and rip your Levi's... I remember hearing the old timers talking about breaking the wire on their C-rations cases with the old style muzzle flash suppressors of their M-16's. The army must've been proud of those P-38's, so much so that they only put ONE in each case of C-rats.
Dave Powers <powers@montrose.net>
Montrose, Colorado USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 20:44:39 (MST)
AW.......Those classy Ohio State students, making national news for "burning down campus". Mama`s "little darlings", of course that`s future teachers, lawyers, doctors,etc. Now when I was young and protesting the war or whatever there was to protest, the Columbus Police Department would accomodate you with a "billy-club" upside you head and a few days in jail. Kinda made you think about the next time you raised cain about something. You approached it a little more civil, the next time. But in Ohio we also had "National Guardmen" when it got to big for the police to handle it , that would kill your ass, for raising hell. I enjoyed the football team success as much as anyone back then. 1968 Ohio State won the National Championship and we didn`t burn cars or destroy the place where you live!!!!!!! Never thought I would live to see the day when I would say " What the Hell is wrong with these kids"? I must be getting old and conservative??????? Nah........they are just spoiled kids!!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 18:40:02 (MST)
RE FOOD: I went over in Sept. of '65 with a Hawk missile outfit (transferred to the 129th later). Only food we had for months was old K-rations (some said from the Korean War). Gawd-awful stuff, especially the weenies. C-rats were like a banquet after those. In '66-'67 we would sometimes get sent (for free) pallets of damaged boxes of PX goods that had the labels washed off; once we got Aqua Velva aftershave, another time we got large jars of French's Mustard - I ate a half a jar of the mustard at one sitting and was sick for two days. Remember when we supported the 5th Special Forces and would have something to eat with the 'Yards, and hoped no one would tell us what the *meat* was?! (grin) Possibly the best food I ever had was at a restaurant in Nha Trang: shark-fin soup and stuffed crab.
Max <Max@OregonPI.com>
USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 11:07:38 (MST)
RE BLOCKING SPAM: Rick et al, I haven't tried the Norton or McAffee spam blockers, but do know that the major browsers all have ways to 'filter' (i.e. block) email. In Netscape (which I use), certain phrases or words (which you determine) will cause the offensive emails to be moved to the Trash file. In IE/Outlook Express, you can have them removed from you ISP's server before you even download them. AOL has something similar. The word or phrase can be either in the Subject line, the Return Address, or in the body of the message. Be sure to look for and add common misspellings, also -- I get a lot of offers for low *morgage* rates, for example. Use your Help file to determine how exactly to set up your filters. Max
Max <Max@OregonPI.com>
USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 10:44:14 (MST)
Dave and Jim, you guys made think something.....DUH..... A P-38....Can Opener.... When someone use say they were in Nam....I would pull out my key chain with a P-38 on it and say" Do you remember these"? And if they didn`t know what is was, I`d say" You were in Nam, RIGHT......
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 09:33:25 (MST)
Washington State and Iowa would be a great game, WSU quarterback reminds me of Doug Flutie type. And Iowa is bonified good team. Miami a great team, but Ohio States defense is someting to be reckon with. Miami is not going to run over them. Ohio State passing defense is a little weak, but once you get into the "red zone" they just don`t give up touchdowns. Miami can have a field goal, but that`s it.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 09:23:27 (MST)
How about those B-2 units? I used to open it up, pull out the John Wayne Bar and perforate the can. I'd then crunch up the crackers and soak them with JP-4 from the fuel tank petcock, light it and use the unit for a mini-stove to cook my ham and limas. If the John Wayne Bar happened to be a Nestle's Crunch, I was totally happy! The simple things make life enjoyable...Jim, I'd forgotten about the turkey loaf, ha! Have a great Thanksgiving, everyone!
Dave Powers <powers@montrose.net>
Montrose, Colorado USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 09:10:14 (MST)
I really hope Ohio State can beat Miami. I wanted Washington State to have a crack but they shot themselves in the foot last night by not having a good backup QB (maybe the Rose Bowl.) I also thought mention should go To IOWA as well as they have been playing. As for the C-RATS, Give me Turkey loaf, some pound cake with the jam from the crackers. Beans & weenies were also OK but I hope everyone is able to remember " Pork slices with juices" The awfulest damn thing ever created i think. Have a Good thanksgiving & Go Ohio State, I am tired of the same team winning all the time. Jim
Jim Westwang <westwang@attbi.com>
Sheridan, Wy. USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 08:53:15 (MST)
Rick, The Fiesta Bowl is where it will be played, and I have Norton Anti-Virus. That doesn`t stop the spam, but my internet provider has a Spam Stopper, but I`ve never checked it out. I just delete it.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 08:41:43 (MST)
Is those spam things you get from Norton or MacAfee any good?***************Where will the National Champ. game be held??Is that the Fiesta Bowl or Prange Bowl??? Go Buckeyes.
Rick England
USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 06:52:11 (MST)
YES........OHIO STATE BUCKEYES ARE GOING TO THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME.......CAMPUS WILL BE TOTALLY WILD TONIGHT!!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 13:47:11 (MST)
I get that crap all the time, and delete it when I see it. Let me get back to the game!!!!!! GO BUCKEYES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 10:45:44 (MST)
These Internet scams have been around for a long time. A lot of good people lose money to these things. The Urban Legends web site at http://www.snopes.com has a good recap of the Nigerian scam at: http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/scams/nigeria.htm …………….. Anytime I get one of these suspicious e-mails from my old, best friend who I never knew, I go to snopes.com and check it out. In 1997, the Secret Service financial crimes division reported confirmed losses of over $100 million to the Nigerian scam letter. I guess the message is to be careful out there in cyberspace.
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@Cox.net>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 09:59:31 (MST)
Yeah Rick, I keep getting these things from " the past king of TOGO, who just happened to pick my email to help him transfer seven hundred gazilloin whatever's from his country" I realize I was dumb enough to join the Army.....but.....do they really think I'm THAT STUPID??????? I have to wonder if any body takes the bait, like....how many people in this country are THAT STUPID???? I'm being careful, by not being in Los Angeles! Ha! Have a Good holiday. Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
USA - Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 07:32:59 (MST)
Who the hell is okwell? This spam is getting out of hand on my E-mail. What is a good spam block? I deep getting these people from Africa. Can anybody help meon this. Flight Have a good and safe turkey Day. Be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 05:59:27 (MST)
Wow! Where is everybody? At "Casino Online?" With gentle thoughts,Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Hug a vet-hug a vet, USA - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 14:57:56 (MST)
hey gale great glasses where in the hell did you find them. an i might add they're cobra sunglasses, outstanding thanks gale. you know they'll be the show stopping at the reunion this year. ========= alex i don't know if you are aware but outside atlanta there's a park called stone mountian. an they have one hell of a laser show on the face of the mountian. that would be a good place to go one evening. but that would be something to look into. ======== we all have our good days an our bad days it's the nature of the beast, we all go through it more then we would like to admit. i think of nam allthe time so i've learned to live with itan we as nam vets can relate to what each of us have gone thruogh we understand each others thoughts and outbursts. just a thought. from 010 with love wink 3/69- 10/70
barry winkler <cobra129th@aol.com>
lakeland, fl USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 20:28:48 (MST)
Timothy Joseph Lynah, 129th AHC. KIA 3/5/67-non-hostile, died missing. Birthday 11/5/47. Happy Birthday Tim. I have posted a memorial for Tim on "Thevirtualwall."
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Remembering a fallen soldier, USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 09:18:56 (MST)
The President`s got his war......nobody really knows what it`s for......doesn`t give you a rhyme or reason......half of one doubt.....and they call it treason.....tryin to make it real.....compared to what? Just a bit concerned about our 4th Amendment rights this morning....with the new " Homeland Security" re-organization. Of course our goverment wouldn`t "twist" or "spin" something around in order for it to fit in "Their Favor". Would they?
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 08:03:21 (MST)
He blesses the boys , as they stand in line, the smell of gun grease, and the bayonets, they shine, he's there to help them, all that he can, to make them feel wanted, he's a good holy man...Sky, Pilot, how high can you fly? you never reach the sky. An ke was a ghost town in 71. WE spent the night there, once when we couldn't get back from Pleiku. There were some cidg there, with a few advisors. They weren't happy about us being there, afraid we'd attract unwanted company. A restless night, and gone in the morning, we went south of the pass, over some of the most beautiful country I've ever seen! Don't get us wrong, when it was time to fight, we'd do our duty. Unfortunately, we weren't much good at stand down time! A lot of the maintenance types had no use for the flyers, till we went on alert for possible attack. THEN...it changed, all of a sudden we were in demand! I know it was something to see the gunships firing up the hillside due north of Lane. ONe night, I was playing nosepicker while one of our teams was putting on a show. It was something to hear the comments from the spectators... We did a precautionary landing on the bank of the Son Be river once....I gained a heightened perspective of the slick crews life! the sitting duck feeling was not my cup of tea! Barry Mc Guire....eastern world, it is exploding, violence flaring, bullets loading,you're old enough to kill, but not for voting, you don't believe in war, but what's that gun you're toting.....heavy shit, man!!!!!! have times really changed? Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 20:29:53 (MST)
Alex: LOL! That's the first time I've been called 'Sergeant Twiggy' in a long, long time! (Flight: after a case of malaria and dengue fever in my previous outfit, at 6'2" I was down to 142 pounds - so the nickname fit quite well...) Max
Max Whittington <Max@OregonPI.com>
USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 18:16:14 (MST)
Alex....Ohio State and Michigan this week-end......If Ohio State wins, they`ll play for the National Championship, Brother Cups team University of Miami. And Ohio States fight song is "Hang On Sloopy", because the McCoys were from Dayton,Ohio. I`ve always said things were alot different in the 70`s Nam. And the racial problems were starting to get out of hand. All black hooches became popular, black cooks giving more food to their black brothers, all kinds if wild stuff. I always kept myself a case of LRRP`s stashed. I always told my family,"Don`t send no candy, I want Beenie Weenies and Vianna Sawsage and crackers. I farted alot, but I wasn`t hungery.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 15:01:48 (MST)
HELLO FLIGHT... JUST SAYING HELLO TO ALL... OH ALEX I HAVE SONG CALLED EVE OF DESTRUCTION AND ANOTHER AS A MP3 ...IF ANY ONE KNOWS HOW FOR ME TO SEND AS A WAVE OR CAN CONVERT I SEND IT... I MAY BE ABLE TO GER EVE OF DESTRUCTION DONE ...I WILL TRY OK.....LET ME KNOW,, HOW ARE ALL OF YOU DOING.. TAKE CARE MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS.. I DONT DO MUCH SO CANT SAY TO MUCH BUT I DO CARE FOR ALL OF YOU A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY TAKE CARE CHIFE (ROB)
RAY GAGNER <STILWATIMG@AOL..COM>
STREET , MD USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 14:22:03 (MST)
Max (sgt twiggy) 65 songs!! Eve of Destruction!!! by Barry McGuire. Hang On Sloopy by the McCoys. Flight have to agree with Max. wasn't know drugs, that I seen and we all got along with each other. We were all a team and worked together. My second tour is when I heard of the drugs, but nothing of fragging. I heard about that years after I ets. Man!!there has been some wild subject on the log lately. But, glad to see and old timer from my first tour Max,logging on. He was the first I found on this web site a few years ago. Fred S. is the Ohio State/Michigan game this weekend??? Ray hope your doing Ok!!! always great taking to you. Max if you can send me your phone number, maybe I can give you a call sometime and chat for a few mintues. I need to call Rainer and check in on him. Max have you checked the personnel rosters for names?? Well flight glad to see everyone ok!!! Were getting to be a dying breed. So, take care of your self. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 14:00:57 (MST)
It was sad to read some of the below. Morale must really have gone downhill in the years after the end of my tour (March of '67.) When I went to Viet Nam (September of '65, on a troop ship) there were more GIs trying to get to Nam than were already there. To transfer to the 129th from the Hawk missile unit I went over with I had to extend my tour of duty by six months, and even then I practically had to get on my knees and beg the First Sgt. to be placed high on the gunners' waiting list. While much of the flying was ash-and-trash, we were always on standby for emergencies, and drugs were an absolute no-no, as was heavy drinking -- and not just by the brass, but by our peers. Believe it or not, I didn't even partake of the *evil weed* for the first time until I was back stateside after I DEROSed. *Dinky dao cigarettes* (marijuana soaked in opium) were readily available in the cities and villes, but the only drug I ever saw openly used was morphine by the wounded.
Max Whittington <Max@OregonPI.com>
USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 13:16:02 (MST)
Liz would you send that poem bc so I can print it out for my collection. Judith 70K I wish I could help but, whose going to fly it if WE did buy it? I will take left well. Boy that would be great too fly again.
Rick England
USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 08:42:24 (MST)
The UH1H helicoopter is located in Ohio and is priced at 70K. After typing in "Helicopter" at ebay.com, 100's of helicopter related items were listed. Including a beautiful mahagoney carved "chopper", I think it was a COBRA(Ron Paye, Sir). You might want to visit. And thanks again for the information "Mr. Stay Away." Always there-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 08:09:52 (MST)
Gently, read Van DeVanter's book... she certainly saw the ugliness of war from a different perspective. Max, remember Eric Burdon's "Sky Pilot"? Great tune. Fred, I also read Mason's "Chickenhawk". I was impressed all over again with the Huey's resilience and airworthiness, and the spartan conditions at An Khe in the early days. Thought about the red mud as I read it.
Dave Powers <powers@montrose.net>
Montrose, Colorado USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 07:45:51 (MST)
You guys are wonderful! It's such a pleasure to visit the 129th everyday, and today I got to read some "sharing of Nam" stories. It also sounds like there were two Nams:pre-drugs, and drugged. I remember a story a friend told me when he got back(72), about fragging.... it was pretty hard to believe, but he was one of the Nam Vets involved in drugs, and actually too imature and childish to be in the military, much less fighting in a war. *** This morning I got an email from a dear friend, one of the 129th who won't post(I wish he would), and he sent me this information to share with the rest of you: there's a helicopter for sale on Ebay. A UH1H and the item number is 1872549226. So whose credit card can we put it on?? Always there-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 07:22:49 (MST)
hey kim, i remember when that idiot got high on acid and tried to fly.Laughed my ass off the next day.To me ,that fell somewhere between ..just one of those things..and .."what the fuck, over.smile,was the speech of the day. i was handed something that made me smile and think of kokomo. I will repeat it now,and its dedacated to someone around that camp fire.You know who u are,Its called sometimes. Sometimes when u cry,no one sees yor tears sometimes when u are in pain, no one sees your hurt. sometimes when u are worried, no one sees ur stress. Sometimes when u are happy, no one sees ur smile....but fart just one time...
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 04:07:56 (MST)
Kim LaVoie...you got a "beautiful mind" my brother. Yea the older brothers of the 129th of the 60`s may not understand us younger brothers of the 70`s. There was so much in-fighting between us. Old Sgt.Meeks, he would take a nap after lunch time every day, still gettin over that hangover. But two asshole junkies decided they were gonna beat the"ole Sarge`s" ass with a ballbat while he was asleep. Some how Sgt.Meeks woke up and took the bat away and wore their junkie asses out. Then dragged there butts down the hill to the orderly room and off to LBJ... Priceless as they say......Then the young man just back from Hawaii R&R with his wife, was walking around spaced out on the flight line and walked into the tail rotor of a running helicopter...... then two weeks later couple of junkies playing "grab ass" in the arms room and one killed the other by accident.....CO got his mind that because of these inccidents, company morale was low......so we`ll have a party at the swimming pool.....well the party went fine until a young man to drunk stumbled into the open pit where the electric pump filter was...... boy got electrocuted. Then a couple idiots decided that shit wasn`t bad enough.... they`ll just frag the company area....poor Ron DeBates had thought it was "incoming" and had taken off for the flight line.... they just about killed Ron.... and he was just gettin over being shot maybe 3 months before, thank god he wasn`t hurt......but ole slick Freddie knew who did it....the next morning I caught one of the dirty MF`s at the flight shack....I told him I knew he what he had done....I told him I`d "Kill Him" if I could get away with it....I meant it.... Then the Cobra`s , I loved you guys and was always glad to see you comin in hot beside us..... but I remember the brawl that broke out in the Cobra Hootch between themselves...... there was two inccidents in a short period of time...." The Kids In The Cattle" and " The Woodchoppers Ball" ......just the price of war I guess.....I never passed no judgement..... As it was said here before, Pot-Heads hated the Juice Freaks hated the Pot Heads and we both hated " The Junkies". And the " Bible Thumpers" ask if " we all could just get along" long before Rodney King said that in LA. A War within a War.....Whiskey bottle....brand new cars....Oak tree you`re in my way.....To much dope and too much smoke.....can`t you see death is all around us......Oh that Smell....... We are all grown adults now trying to move on.... Boy George.....please don`t get us in another Nam........
Freddie Skaggs
USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 19:52:49 (MST)
Gently, don't apologise for a thing! I was one of those young American's who, thanks to a judge and a nice probation officer, got to join the Army at 17. I long ago reconciled, in my own way, that I was part of something created by the " GREATEST GENERATION", which got us from Korea to the Berlin wall coming down. My short time in the 129th was filled with all kinds of interesting events.....a crewchief getting totally messed up and trying to fly back to America. He made it about 50 feet before crashing....some wingnut in maintenance shooting himself in the side with a pistol. Trying his quick draw.... a junkie trying to frag the first sergeant, and ending up tied to a corner of the supply hooch, until the MP'S came and took him away. In the midst of all that insanity was a bunch of good young men who did what was asked of them, without looking for glory; Who fought while restricted by stupid rules, conflicting assignments, senseless restrictions. I do get pissed at the politics that got us in there, and kept us there so long after it was decided that winning wasn't worth it. The 'greatest generation" ww11 vets, were running the country at that time, and I always wondered if that's the way they fought ww11! My greatest anger, which came out long after returning, is directed at the vets in the VFW, again, the WW11 types, who were running the show on the home front. They treated us just a poorly as the protesters! Like second class retreads, who didn't know how to fight, because we didn't win! it took a while to figure it out, but, I haven't looked at those types with any respect in a lot of years. Just as in Vietnam, very few actually fought, and, the noise made seems to be in inverse proportion to the amount of combat encountered! As for Vietnam era guardsmen and reservists, at least the draft dodgers stood for something.......Freddie, Poison; something to believe in. check it out. clear right
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 18:15:43 (MST)
Hi, everyone, hope you all have a good Thanksgiving, speaking of songs, we sang one on the plane on the way over. " The Vietnam song" from woodstock by Country Joe Mcdonald & the fish. A protest song but kind of cool. A lot of verses were added to that one. Remember " and it's 1,2,3 what are we fighting for, let me tell you now i don't give a damn the next stop is Viet-Nam, & it's 5,6,7 open up the pearly gates. Ther aint no time to wonder why, whoopie wer'e all gonna die" Some of the political stuff in that song seems a lot more true now than it did to a mixed up kid like me at the time. My Best to all, Jim
Jim Westwang <westwang@attbi.com>
Sheridan, Wy. USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 17:53:34 (MST)
Speaking of songs, I was just thinking about this last night: 'The Ballad of the Green Beret' came out in 1966. During my tour with the 129th we added a chorus to the tune, which some may remember singing while carousing in the villes. "Put tennis shoes / upon his feet; his friends will call / him Sneaky Pete; but let me fly / and get flight pay; 'cause you can't spend / a green beret..."
Max Whittington <Max@OregonPI.com>
USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 12:59:38 (MST)
Great Song Stacey....Kenny Rodgers & First Edition....The First Edition was the " house band" for a club in Columbus,Ohio called "Jim Otis`s "Time Out", Jim Otis was a fullback for Ohio State University on the "68" National Champion Team and St. Louis(Arizona) Cardinals. But Kenny Rodgers didn`t do much singing then, he played bass. A lady named Thelma did most the singing. They played on a local TV show called "Dance Party". It was the local version of "American Bandstand". But I was a Dance Party dancer back then, before arthritis started kickin on my "old ass". At high school reunions they still called me "Dancin Freddie". But we were talkin about Nam Era songs, "Ruby Don`t Take Your Love To Town", that was a heartbreaker.........
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 11:45:06 (MST)
Just Dropped in to see what condition my condition was in... Stacy 129th '70-'71
Stacy McLain <mclain@infomagic.net>
Flagpole, AZ USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 10:47:00 (MST)
Good morning flight. I apologize for stirring up the past, it's the last thing I would ever want to do, the very last. Please continue to talk things out, here, among friends and brothers who care about you, and support you. Know that my heart breaks when I read of your frustrations, anger, and pain, and that it hurts alot more when perhaps I have caused the resurgence of the monster. My sincere apologies. Tom, the book is called "Everything We Had," and it's 33 short stories by Viet Nam Veterans. Always there,in pain and happiness-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 06:56:05 (MST)
what still pisses me off...There is a pass between tuy hoa and nha trang that high way 1 runs thru.We had the mission once to fly convoy cover for the kimshe(sp) eaters.there was our slick and 2 cobra guns ships.Waiting on the other side of the pass was an american unit.We all know two convoys in a pass is the hight of folly.Anyway, the american convoy radioed us an ask if we could remain on station and fly convey cover for them as they transversed the pass.We radioed back to hq, and the answer was ..nope.We didnt do didly shit the rest of the day but yet we couldnt find time to cover our brothers on the ground.That still pisses me off.btw, thats the pass i lost both my rommies in.
alvis
USA - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 17:37:59 (MST)
Fred, Yep, it’s normal. I think we all carry some excess baggage from Nam. Some more than others. I remember the Ops Officer who flew minimum hours, stayed multiple tours and got the magic DFC and the promotion instead of being passed over that one last time. I remember the stupid missions that put lives at risk for no good reason and the total lack of anything approaching a cohesive plan of action either in II Corps or in the whole country. It all just kind of happened day to day until it was time to go home. I remember the anger at the medics at the Evac Hospital who wouldn’t get off their dead asses at 2 in the morning and bring a stretcher out to my gun ship because they aren’t supposed to supply stretchers - not their job man. Amazing how fast everyone can move after you call the tower, tell them your guns are hot and flex the outboard M-60's around a bit. I’m still mad because Westmoreland got his four stars out of a box of Post Toasties and was a complete idiot passing on orders from idiots in Washington. And I’m still mad because there is a Wall with the names of a generation of the BEST our country has ever produced on it. And I am mad because we have idiots in charge now who have never known war who are eager to send another generation off to fight and die for their insanity. And then I take a deep breath and realize just how lucky and blessed we all are to have this country, this life, each other. So, yes, I hope it’s pretty normal for both our sakes. Cobra Soothsayer, 67-68
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@Cox.net>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 11:01:59 (MST)
By the way....LZ English appears to have been named LZ Dog by the Cav. Any of you brothers got more history on II Corp? Let me know!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 10:18:58 (MST)
Good Morning Flight, I was noticing the commo about reading material. I`ve been reading "Chickenhawk" by Robert Mason, this week-end, I had read the second installment "Chickenhawk:"Back In The World". But the first book is so much better. Mason flew with the 227th AHC 1st Cav. in 65 thru 66. Man, he goes into the history of Nam and the 2 Corp A.O. He worked every where we the 129th worked in that area. He goes in to great detail of Happy Valley, An Loa Valley, Kontum, Dak to,etc. He speaks of Group Mobile 100, the French Unit that got wiped out at Mang Yang Pass. That place always had a haunting effect on me when we flew thru there. He also goes in to great detail of what the NVA and VC would do to a " Flight Crew" if captured. I was moaning and groaning while reading the book, and my wife(Kim) ask why I was doing that. It`s hard to explain my emotions while reading this book. I get very upset and find myself wanting to extract some revenge, still.......after 32 years. I try to rationalize these feelings. Is it inmature for me to have these feelings? Of course my wife Kim is just 40 years old, and her thought is, "Don`t read that shit". But it`s the best reading I`ve done in a while, because I relate to the area and everything. Seems they had a Capt. Guilfoyle type person in their unit also, a person who wanted that DFC at any cost and the promotion to Major at the cost of some poor EM`s life. They never let him make AC also. He also talks about "rear echlon" MF`s that never flew, but was loggin CA hours to buff their career`s. I`m not bashing officers buy no means, I flew in the company of some great CE`s and Pilots, that saved my ass too many times. But I`m just questioning myself, is it normal to have these feeling`s about this "time and period" in my life. I thought I had got buy that a long time ago. These feelings really disturb me at this point in my life....ENOUGH....HOW ABOUT THEM OHIO STATE BUCKEYES, If we can just get by Michigan.....
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 10:14:38 (MST)
Kim, there was no offense taken. I was just curious about it and I know exactly what you mean about the confusion, etc. Some things stand out real clear and others have faded completely. Take care brother. Clear left! Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 21:40:13 (MST)
Gale, I used to travel a lot, and I picked up a book at an airport bookstore once. It was full of short stories, anecdotes really, about things that stuck out in various veteran's minds of their experiences in vietnam. I only read it on a flight to Vegas, then it disappeared. There were individual recollections of I Drang, Pleiku, Dalat, a bunch of items on the DMZ, Saigon, everything from clerks to supply people, from grunts to donut dolly's. I know I'm getting old, and sometimes things get transposed from one memory to another....sorry for any confusion, and, I didn't mean to offend. Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
USA - Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 17:37:23 (MST)
Kim, I guess that I don't understand your statement about the book. Why would I be in a book about VietNam nurses? Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 23:14:43 (MST)
Gently, I wonder, did I read a short first person account by her in a book called "Everything We Had"? I think Gale Beard was in it also. I'm sorry to learn about her death. The nurses are a forgotten group of soldiers, when we reminisce about the war. clear left...Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 18:23:11 (MST)
Flight, Lynda Van DeVanter, Viet Nam nurse, author of the book "Home Before Morning," and one of the fighters behind the Viet Nam Womens Memorial in D.C., died today. Agent Orange related. She is now with many of our friends and brothers she tried to save. Thank you Lynda, now you are at peace. Always there for my Veterans-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 14:32:36 (MST)
thank you Gale.Man,what a surprise (pleasent) i found inside.Made me grin from ear to ear.You reached in and touched me,without me seeing it coming.Thank you
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 19:21:58 (MST)
I also met Lt. Gen. Moore Joe Gallaway and Julie Moore. I gave her our 129th pin an she said." I will wear it with pride tommrow" on Vetreans Day. So she represented us at the White House. What an honor I thought. She was very sweet and brave Lady. Be careful out there.
Rick England
USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 18:29:54 (MST)
HELLO FLIGHT... JUST WANT TO SAY HELLO TO ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS.. THANKS SO MUCH FOR CARINE LOVE YOU ALL FOR YOU AL HELPED SO MUCH A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET, MD USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 10:57:52 (MST)
Flight: Well slowly coming down off an emotional high. Veterans Day 11/02/2002 Washington D.C. The 20th anniverary of the WALL!!!The VIETNAM VETERANS MARCH TO REMEMBER from 7th street and Constitution Avenue to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial(THE WALL. The heavy rain and wind couldn't stop the march to the WALL!! Even being soaked and cold from the rain we marched with our heads held high. I marched up front with the 1st cavalry and the men of the Ia Drang. Which was a honor for me. I had the honor of meeting Joe Galloway and Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore and the rest of the Ia Drang men. But, my biggest moment was , when I placed a plaque I had made to honor our fallen Brothers of the 129th. And placed it in resting place at panel 18w. I have realized it doesn't get any easier at the WALL!!! I leave a little baggage there that I have carried for many years, each time I'm there. I let our Brothers know we all are thinking of them and they will always be remembered. I also realize it's alright to express your emotion and let your tears fall. It dosen't make any less a Man or Woman. Sam & Sharon and Rick was great seeing you all. Even though it was just for a few minutes. Ray, sorry I couldn't catch a ride. But, there's Atlanta. Judith, hope your veterans day program went wll. And found enough hats. Your a true sister to all of us here!! Mark thanks for panel number. It was nice to spend time with all our Brothers. Max great to see you post. Been many a year has past since we were all together, Found Truman Mills but, he's not ready to talk yet. Tom good seeing you post. Hope all who post or read this log will try to make the reunion in Atlanta. Well too much happened in such a short few days. And I probably left some out. Still ain't thinking clearly yet. Oh! as I was walking at the wall. I had on my 129th shirt. All of a sudden to 101st abn guys came up to me , gave me a big hug and said THANKS. After all this years they still remembered the COBRAS AND BULLDOGS FROM THE 129TH. Come to find out, they were there in Dakto in 1966 also. Small world!! Want thank my wife, for the encouragement to go to D.C. and for poem she sneaked in on me!! And thanks to all our wives or special women for their support. We appreciate it. Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 10:11:24 (MST)
Back from the Vietnam Memorial Went eith 50 vets from Az. on the opreation freedom bird. We cried and laugh together. I presented a POW MIA flag w/the 129th AHC I used Ironed on #s and letters with the Air Medal and a poem called Fiddlers Green. I touch our brothers, I seen brothers I knew and brothers I didn't know from the 129th that paid the ultamate scarfice they cried with us at the wall the rain there in DC showed all of them.**************** I have lots of pictures and will send them to Mark. My roomate was in the 3/17 cav a scout c/e. **************I felt the Magic there at the Wall. ********When I put the flag down w/ the Air Medal one of the other brothers in our group, his name is chino laid down a sombrero w/ wings and a Air Medal for his brother we did this together as we turned around their were allot of people watching us and movie cameras were running from everyone, chino and I hugged each other. This was a moment that I will never forget, hope other people may understand us a little more and honor those that fallen. ******* I am sorry I could not put this down in better words it just that I wanted you that haven't been to the Wall know that the experience is a healing one an the things that happen to you there again is magic.***********Be careful out there. Alex it was good to see you my brother I am sorry we couln't spend more time together. Liz I read your poem that poem I will put in my colection. Thank you for a job well done.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
USA - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 09:05:10 (MST)
Bruno, Bernie, 426 survivors! Don't be such strangers! And start saving money for Atlanta! Always there-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Veteran, USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 15:31:06 (MST)
Hey Bernie, Hey Bernie, Hey Bernie, que paso ?Yesterday I attended the local veterans day activities & rememberes you with your busted up eye lid & leg. I also remembered everyone of you all. " E'NUFF SAID"
Bruno E Sanchez
Laredo, USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 11:59:01 (MST)
Flight-I've posted a memorial for Michael Duane Walker at The Virtual Wall, but it will take several days to be processed. In the near future, please visit and add more to it: www.virtualwall.org Always there-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a vet, USA USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 08:09:08 (MST)
...Mornin' family......all is well in Coldwater Ohio. That storm went through about 30 miles north of us. 2 dead. Terrible.......we just had lots and lots of rain.......thanks for careing. Hey Max W.......will have the story of the 868 up in a day. Thank you very much for writing it. Have a couple more new names to add to the list. Will take a new head count tonight to see how many we have now.........take my friends.....always a brother, Mark
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 06:42:54 (MST)
Michael Duane Walker's picture is already up on the Viet Nam memorial wall memories page. To see it, go to http://thewall-usa.com/ and enter his name and homestate of Florida in the search boxes. Follow the links from there. He was a great guy.
Max Whittington <Max@OregonPI.com>
USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 22:49:39 (MST)
Haven't posted here before. Was a gunner in the 129th, late '66 to March of '67 (I extended). Flew with Lt. Wallace on 868; have not been able to locate him, and would apprecitate any leads. Spent part of Veterans Day putting in a memorial page on 'The Wall' for my best friend in the unit, Mike Walker, who died of burns suffer in the accident in which WO Ed Wells was killed, April of '67. Mike's picture will be added in a week or so. Some of you might want to add something on the memorial pages (a new feature of "The Wall") for some of your buddies who didn't make it. The web site is at: http://thewall-usa.com/ Bite and Strike! Max
Max Whittington <Max@OregonPI.com>
OR USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 22:35:29 (MST)
Spent a few minutes reflecting on John Brooks, Jim Young, Stretch, Mike Lovejoy, Shakey Pete....too many from town to mention, it's a rainy day, should have gone flying......Kim
Kim La Voie <kimlav@megalink.net>
Livermore, Me USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 19:47:22 (MST)
I am just 21 but know what you all have done for this country. You deserve all the respect in the world. Thank you!
Melody
Amarillo, TX USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 19:46:07 (MST)
evening flight, hope everyone is well thia day, veterans day, mark sign on an let us know you and dee are ok.worried about you two. liz don't know if you got my e-mail,but youb done good. it must be nice to have someone who cares and understands like you girls your guys are lucky, and i hope they know it. i'm sure they do.must be nice. ====spending quite day at home. take care all. from 010 with love== wink 3/69- 10/70
barry winkler <cobra129th@aol.com>
lakeland, fl USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 17:38:04 (MST)
Jamie: Good to see another wife on here supporting our wonderful Vet's. These guys are the best. Sounds like you are rolling out the red carpet for yours and that is so special. I wanted to do something for Alex and so I took all the little bits and pieces that he has shared with me over the past 14 years and put them on paper. It was just my way of saying I understand a small part of what he went through. Take care and I wish everyone a nice and safe Veteran's Day. Alvis, thanks for the kind words. I spoke to Alex earlier and he said it had been a roller coaster of emotions these past few days and a healing of a few more open wounds. He and a few other guys marched along with the 1st Cav in the 10 block parade in the rain. He said he hadn't had this much fun since he was a boy!!! You all take care and God Bless. Liz
Liz Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 17:09:18 (MST)
Veteran's Day thoughts and prayers to you all, with my heartfelt THANK YOU for what you did for your country, and for those of us who didn't do anything. It doesn't seem fair that I'm home enjoying a day off, while the veteran in my life is at work. Liz, your words to Alex put me in tears. Thank you for putting it so eloquently from the wife's perspective. I've prepared his favorite meal, baked his favorite treats, and hung a patriotic banner in our front entry to greet him when he arrives home tonight. I also found a really neat book at Barnes & Noble - a pictoral of Vietnam. Weighs a ton! But it's packed full. Just a bunch of little things to remind him how much I care. As I watch the news today, I hope and pray all our friends and their families in Ohio and surrounding areas are safe? Please everyone - check in and let us know. Worried about you, I am... Jamie DeBates
Jamie DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 13:23:00 (MST)
Jeff, a buckeye is a " useless nut", but I think Joe Pa`s time has passed. He`s starting to get "Woody Hayes Syndrome", he`s been going crazy this year.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 08:47:03 (MST)
Haven't been on here for quite a spell. All is well here and hope all is well with everyone on this our day. Hope and pray all is OK with everyone in the stormy Ohio Valley and elsewhere. All have a safe Veterans Day!!! Flame
Darwin Schmiedt--Flame <schmitty@santel.net>
Woonsocket, SD USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 08:08:59 (MST)
Hope all of you have a wonderful and safe Veteran's Day. I have been out of the net for a few days and this very rainy day gives me a chance to catch up. If you think dealing with Freddie and the "Buckeye" is rough you should try being a Penn State person married to one. I mean,what kind of a football team is named after a flower? Can you imagine the Pittsburg Pansies or the Green Bay Orchids. Now there are two names that would cause fear and panic in the opposition. Jeez! Needless to say this has not been a fun football season for me. It was good to see Tom Hausman check in. His comment about WOs not being able to write reminded me of the old saying: "A few months ago I couldn't even spell helicopter pilot-now I are one" Again, have a good Vet's Day and may God bless us and our fallen comrades!
jeff sauers
lake norman , nc USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 07:38:35 (MST)
Hi Sue, Haven't heard from you guys in a while. How's Jim doing? Tell him that he better learn how to operate that "computer thang" and get on here and visit with us. If he can work on Huey's, he can do this. Hope to see you two in Atlanta! Gale
Gale <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 06:59:35 (MST)
Happy Veterans Day! My family is proud of all the veterans who protected our freedoms. Thank you. You ALL ARE appreciated.
Sue Hydinger <oldstuff@pointonline.net>
Stevens Point, WI USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 06:25:11 (MST)
I,m in position!! What a view...what a charge.....what an honor to be with all of you!! Everyone have a great Veteran's Day. Clear left, Gale
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 05:58:53 (MST)
129th Welcome Home. Thank you. You are in my thoughts and prayers today as well as every other day. Katharine
Katharine <fricabeunme@aol.com>
USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 05:15:16 (MST)
I`m "ON BOARD" and " IN THE WELL" ,YOU`LL BE CLEAR RIGHT !!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 21:07:59 (MST)
Mr Paye.............thanks for the cover, and I am honored to be with you and Tom in formation.........Hey Rest of the Flight, Fall in and lets all fly together tonight and tomorrow.............all that are silent, but still come here and read, sound of......just to see how many we all will be flying with on the mission of tomorrow..........Dee and I just attended a small Marine Corps Ball near by. Ya did know that this is the Marines Corps B/day today???...did'nt ya????;-)))))......First Ball I have been to since 1970. Was fun and lots of brotherhood there.........was great to be with a room full of Leather Necks.....boy can we be full of a bunch of shit, but still the meanest, baddest, mofos in the world.....Semper Fi!!!!!!!!!!....also did a class on my relationship to the Vietnam war, and all of you, for a high school class this after noon.......wishing all of you the best day in your life tomorrow.........wake up, walk outside and stick that chest out my fellow Vets.....you have earned it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.............always a brother, Mark
ark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 20:35:56 (MST)
Hey guys, Do you mind if I slide in and fly behind Mark. Could use a little time covering my brothers. My best to all tomorrow and everyday. You were and are "The Best Of The Best." Love and Brotherhood Cobra 34
Ron Paye <ronpaye@comcast.net>
Indy, IN USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 19:58:21 (MST)
helo liz.. and all my brothers and siaters.. just want to say to liz what a wonderful poem you wrote.. ant do all my brothers and sisters i wish you love and peace in your hearts.... a brother always...Ray
RAY GAGNER <stilwating@aol.com>
street, md USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 10:32:54 (MST)
.......TOM S..............CLICK,CLICK.......ON YOUR WING..........YEAH, LETS DO FLY A BIT! ......THANKS BROTHER.................ALWAYS A BROTHER TO ALL, MARK..........HAPPY MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY......DEE AND I ARE GOIN' TO A BALL TONIGHT....SEMPER FI.......SEE YA LATER LARRY!
MARK JACKSON
USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 08:25:45 (MST)
You have more than EARNED it Mark. Brother, you can fly with me, with us, anytime, anywhere. Cobra Soothsayer, 67-68, guns cold, slip into the wing position Mark, let's fly a bit.
Tom Shanahan <Shanahan00@Cox.net>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 08:02:22 (MST)
MONDAY................. ..............VETERAN'S DAY ..............WHAT CAN I SAY ..............WATCHED PRIVATE RYAN ..............MY EYES ARE CRYIN' ..............SOUNDS OF THE GUN ..............NOT MUCH FUN ..............RAINS FALLIN' ..............LARRYS CALLIN' ..............WALKED OUTSIDE ..............FACED MY EYES TO THE SKY ..............TOUCH ME WITH YOUR FINGER TIPS LARRY ..............WHYED YA HAFTA DIE? ..............BUMP THAT ..............THATS OLE' MILK ..............MY MEMORIES, AND NEW FRIENDS ..............LIKE FINE SILK ..............SILLY ME, ..............TEARS, ..............HEAD ACKE, ..............WORRY, ..............FRET, ..............WONDER, ..............TRY, ..............WONDER WHY, ..............LOST MY CIGAR ..............CANT FIND MY DRINK, ..............CLICK, FLASH ..............THE ZIPPO BLINKS ..............ICE CUBS RATTLE ..............I HAVE NO BATTLE ..............I AINT NOTHING ..............TILL YA MAKE ME SOMETHING .............WHY I TYPE? .............I HAVE NO CLUE .............I DO KNOW THIS .............I LOVE YOU ...........MONDAY....... ...........VETERAN'S DAY ...........WHAT CAN I SAY? ....................................LETS GO HOME LARRY! .............. My 129th Veterans family......I will always be your brother................THANKS FOR MY FREEDOM...........I have tried to
Mark Jackson
USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 22:42:29 (MST)
MONDAY................. VETERAN'S DAY WHAT CAN I SAY WATCHED PRIVATE RYAN MY EYES ARE CRYIN' SOUNDS OF THE GUN NOT MUCH FUN RAINS FALLIN' LARRYS CALLIN' WALKED OUTSIDE FACED MY EYES TO THE SKY TOUCH ME WITH YOUR FINGER TIPS LARRY WHYED YA HAFTA DIE? BUMP THAT THATS OLE' MILK MY MEMORIES, AND NEW FRIENDS LIKE FINE SILK SILLY ME, TEARS, HEAD ACKE, WORRY, FRET, WONDER, TRY, WONDER WHY, LOST MY CIGAR CANT FIND MY DRINK, CLICK, FLASH THE ZIPPO BLINKS ICE CUBS RATTLE I HAVE NO BATTLE I AINT NOTHING TILL YA MAKE ME SOMETHING WHY I TYPE? I HAVE NO CLUE I DO KNOW THIS I LOVE YOU MONDAY....... VETERAN'S DAY WHAT CAN I SAY? LETS GO HOME LARRY! .............. My 129th Veterans family......I will always be your brother................THANKS FOR MY FREEDOM...........I have tried to "EARN", what you have given me................I hope, I have done you honor. ................................Mark
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 22:36:44 (MST)
bravo Liz, well done.I can see why Alex is proud of you.
alvis
USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 17:56:28 (MST)
Bob decided to go skiing with his buddy, Jack. They loaded up Bob's mini van and headed north. After driving for a few hours, they got caught in a terrible blizzard. They pulled into a nearby farm and asked the attractive lady who answered the door if they could spend the night. "I realize it's terrible weather out there and I have this huge house all to myself, but I'm recently "widowed," she explained. "I'm afraid the neighbors will talk if I let you stay in my house." "Don't worry," Bob said. "We'll be happy to sleep in the barn. And if the weather breaks, we'll be gone at first light," The lady agreed, and the two men found their way to the barn and settled in for the night. Come morning, the weather had cleared, and they got on their way. They enjoyed a great weekend of skiing. About nine months later, Bob got an unexpected letter from an attorney. It took him a few minutes to figure it out, but he finally determined that it was from the attorney of that attractive widow he had met on the ski weekend. He dropped in on his friend Jack and asked, "Jack, do you remember that good looking widow from the farm we stayed at on our ski holiday up north?" "Yes, I do." "Did you happen to get up in the middle of the night, go up to the house and pay her a visit?" "Yes," Jack said, a little embarrassed about being found out. "I have to admit that I did." "And did you happen to use my name instead of telling her your name?" Jack's face turned red and he said, "Yeah, sorry, buddy. I'm afraid I did. Why do you ask?" "She just died and left me everything." __________ (And you thought the ending would be different, didn't you?)
alvis
USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 17:52:51 (MST)
Good evening to everyone at the 129th. Alex just left for Washington, DC. I'm not very good writing things, but I wrote a poem for Veteran's Day for him and he wanted me to share it with all of you. I hope each of you have a wonderful Veteran's Day and remember that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Alex will be thinking of you as he visits the Wall. The poem is as follows: My Vietnam Hero It all started in a little town in Ohio, You came into the world such a happy little fellow. Your mom had carried you for so many weeks, You arrived June 13th in nineteen hundred and forty six. You grew up with three sisters and three brothers, Laughing, playing and enjoying each other. Even though there were fights and tears, Each was there to comfort the fears. Uncle Sam invited you to join his team, He planned to make you strong, lean and mean. You went through basic training in six weeks time, And he said you were ready for the front line. You climbed on board that C-130 bird, The Eve of Destruction is what you heard. You crossed that big blue pond, You landed in a place called “Vietnam.” As you landed there were body bags, And many of our soldiers dressed in rags. You must have thought “What have I done”, Coming to this place called “Vietnam.” You served your country with pride, Not knowing who back home was on your side. The things you saw are still in your mind, They can’t and will not be left behind. It took you some thirty years to tell your part, Now others keep coming forth and sharing their hearts. You have a family called the 129th group, They are a dandy bunch of troops. As you walk along the wall that has so many names, You deeply feel the heartaches and pains. So many sons, daughters, parents and friends, Trying to let the healing process begin. You’ve gained much wisdom and are stronger, As you stand up tall and are ashamed no longer. People want to shake your hand and will not forget, You are a Proud Vietnam Vet. I put this on paper in black and white, So you will know how proud I am of you tonight. You have traveled and come so far in life, And I am honored to be this Veteran’s wife. I dedicate this to you Alex Fernwalt, my husband and friend. I wrote this so you would understand how much I love my soldier man!!!!! By: Liz Fernwalt November 11, 2002 (Veteran’s Day)
Liz Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 16:51:18 (MST)
OH FORGOT TO PUT WHO I MENT ... GALE THAT WAS SO NICE THANKS... A BROTHER...RAY
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET , MD USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 08:42:28 (MST)
HELLO FLIGHT...JUST HAD TO TO COMENT ON WHAT YOU WROTE ON THE 8TH ABOUT HAVE WE FOR GOTTEN I THOUGHT IT WAS REAL NICE AND SO TRUE ... TAKE CARE ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS FOR YOU ALL MEAN SO MUCH TO ME... LOVE YA ALL..A BROTHER ALWAYS... RAY MAY U ALL BE SAFE..OH AND GENTLY LOVE WHAT YOU WROTE TO ... CAN TEL THAT WHAT YOU BOTH WROTE CAME FROM YOUR HEARTS ... BE SAFE
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL. COM>
STREET , MD USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 07:07:14 (MST)
Hello to all, Hope everyone has a good veterans day, I have changed my e-mail to westwang@attbi.com , a high speed internet svc because the old dial-up line wasn't getting it done this far in the boonies. I tried to send it to all in my address book but some came back. Fred Alvis, Give me a call if you want # 307-672-8704. Mark, Can you ask the administrator to change my e-mail addy in the contacts. My best to all, Jim
Jim Westwang <westwang@attbi.com>
Sheridan, wy USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 12:28:26 (MST)
Flight-you will all be in my thoughts and on my mind this Veterans Day(but that holds true for every day, really). Over the several years I have been communicating with you, I have found many new wonderful friends, had many laughs, and felt your sorrows and pains, as you have felt mine. This web site has been a healing place for me as it has been for you, and I thank you Mark and Larry for that peace. I thank all of you for that peace. But what moves my heart the most is your brotherhood: your reaching out to one another, your protecting one another, being there for each other, sharing with each other. And oh, yes, your bad jokes, which we all laugh at. You Viet Nam Veterans have given real definition and strength to the word "brotherhood." You had too, no one else was there for you when you came "Home." Though it has taken many years, you now have a brotherhood, and we who did not serve, are now stepping forward to offer you that "Welcome Home." Please forgive us for being so late. Welcome Home my dear friends. Welcome Home. With the deepest respect-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
Thank a Viet Nam Vet., WI USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 10:17:28 (MST)
I mispelled good I didn't mean gook. Sorry.
Ric England
USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 10:07:14 (MST)
I just packed them with the socks which I forgot the trip to Kokokmo.HEHEHEHEHE Gook thing we got to wall mart before the storm hit. At least I'll have socks and undies I don't know about anything else.HEHEHEHE. Flight you have to get your laugh down on paper we all don't laugh the same.HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE. Thanks Alex I know I won't be alone the support here and Vet center has been great. My room mate was CE on a loach from the 3/17th Cav. Flight have a safe Veterans Day and Be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 09:22:51 (MST)
Freddie, thank you friend. For some strange reason, I new that would get a response from you. ;o) Hey Rick, DON'T FORGET TO PACK YOUR UNDIES!!!!HeeeHeeHe!! Fred Alvis....where have you been Bro? If you don't get on here, some of us are gonna think that you took off for Australia or something!? :o))) Gale
Gale <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 08:53:21 (MST)
Rick was good talking to you. And looking forward to D.C. tomorrow. Our wake up is almost here. The excitement and inner emotions are building as the mintues tick away. Brother Rick, your first time to the wall!! When you walk that walk for the first time. It's tough!!! But, your healing will start!! But, Rick you won't walk alone. Your AZ. Brothers, me and the rest the 129th whom visit this site will be walking with you. But, most of all our Brothers and Sisters whom gave their all, will be there with you to comfort you as you start your healing process. See you tomorrow my Brother. Ray, will try and figure a way for all of to meet up. Gale would have been nice if you could make it. We will get pictures for web site. If any of our Brothers might decide to come and live in the Baltimore area, maybe you can get with Ray. As Prsident of VHCMA we will have a hosptality Room at the Hilton Crystal City at the airport. I will be back and forth between the hotel and the wall. Well flight, hope all of you have a safe Vetearns Day. PROUD TO BE ONE!! AND SERVE WITH THE BEST!!! CLEAR LEFT, D.C. bound!! Alex 129th 65-68
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 08:01:58 (MST)
Gale......That`s some "heavy stuff" you`re were laying on us there, but it`s so true. I`m still suffering a "election hangover". But that`s another story,just have to deal with it. I was thinkin about moving to Nevada, but the people have spoken. I`m still trying to figure out if Trent Lott said" Let`s Roll" or "Let`s Rule"....... Speaking of hangovers, for about 12 year period, my dear friend, Mike Close and I would take vacation days off the 10th and 11th of November. We would hit the pub, and honor his "Dear Marines" brithday on the 10th and the 11th we would honor our fallen brothers. It became so famous in the neighborhood, that by the 12th year we had about 40 or 50 vets would join us also for both days......
Freddie Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 07:54:37 (MST)
Mark and Capt. Tom Hausman, just read your post of 11-02, and wanted to say thanks for the remembrance of Jim Young. We were good friends, and went to helicopter school together at Mother Rucker. They sent us all over together, and a handful of us wound up with the 129th. Two from our manifest didn't return home, Jimmy was one of them. He was a great guy with a good sense of humor! Thanks again, and everyone have a safe V-Day.
Dave Powers <powers@montrose.net>
Montrose, Colorado USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 07:23:59 (MST)
Have we forgotten......Scalps sold for trinkets?...Bloody battle at the North Bridge?...Frozen feet at Valley Forge?...The haunting refrain of taps?...Cherokee's Trail of Tears?...Fiery path of looting and destruction of the South?...The scourge that divided our nation?...Mourning women in black feeding soldiers?...Stench of death at Andersonville?...Pits of bodies sharing the same grave?...Screaming and firing in fox holes?...Driving the enemy out trenches at Argonne Forest?...Blood red poppies painting graves at Flander's Field?...Names etched in stone in town squares in every city?...Sunken ships in Pearl Harbor?...Kamikaze planes diving into ships?...Guerillas hovering in caves?...Boats spilling out men scurrying to their fates?...Guns perched atop cliffs?... Shaved heads of innocent people stumbling to their inevitable death in ovens?...Gold stars hung in mother's windows?...Wailing and screaming of village children?...Body bags returning home?...Are we civilized? Are we savages? Do we have a conscience? Have we considered all possibilities? Are we reacting? Are we protecting? What are the consequences? What are the results? Who will write the next chapter of our history?...The news reporters?...The President?...The Congress?...The United Nations?...You?...Me? (written by Gerri Black)
Gale
USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 06:39:06 (MST)
Rick, that was pretty nice Buddy. Have a great trip to the wall. My finances just don't allow it, but, I'll be thinking of you & Alex......be careful. Gale
Gale <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 06:16:43 (MST)
Hi all! To everyone going down to DC- be safe. I also wanted to thank all the Veterns for what you did for this country. Especially you guys who certainly did not get the recognition for it. Thanks again, I hope to meet many of you soon. Kris
kris <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
baltimore, md USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 19:46:16 (MST)
Pow 369 Written by: (Stephen Dale Jones)**** I was flying down the highway******* Weaving in and out of traffic****** I was racing time******* An old man pulled out in front of me******** And I went crazy as can be****** I lost my mind***** I blew my horn till I got close enough to see******** And what was on his car-tag sure convicted me********* POW 369************** I should salute you from this heart of mine****** And thank you for placing your life on the line******* For me, I'm free****** I pray that the rest of your journey is a peaceful one***** And may you take your own sweet time******** Mr. POW 369****** The things we take for granted******* In this life we lead are tragic******** We should be ashamed********* He left his home and family****** And cast his fate across the sea******** Would we do the same******** Well I sure bet he's got some stories he could tell******** Ain't that many ever made it back from hell******** POW 369******** I should salute you from this heart of mine******* And thank you for placing your life on the line******* For me, I'm free****** I pray that the rest of your journey is a peaceful one******* And may you take your own sweet time***** Mr. POW 369******** Let me thank you one more time********** Mr. POW 369******** This was sung by Doug Stone
Rick England
USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 15:17:26 (MST)
Mark, just saw your post about the Travel Channel and Jerry Elliott's rotor blade box we left at the WALL during Rolling Thunder 2000. That's incredible. I will never forget that day or that whole trip. I hope someday to see you and Dee again. I don't post, but do read the log often.....take care and say Hi to Dee for me. Mike...........
Mike Teutschman <mike.d.teutschman@boeing.com>
Lynnwood, WA USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 14:52:27 (MST)
Rick hope I can catch up with you tonight. If you are carrying a cell phone, that way I can program yours so I will have it. One more day and a wake up. Gently!!appreciate the card. It was really nice of you. Hope your Vetearn activities are a sucess. With your devotion and deication I know it will. Wish everyone could be there Monday in D.C. along with Rick and myself. Ray hopefully we can find a way to meet up. Barry, Face it . We are getting a little older. But, we age gracefully. And Ron, The MOON over Louisville!! to many pictures out there. But, what a way to be remembered!!!!!Take Care Flight. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 14:13:11 (MST)
Fred Alvis-the emails I've been sending to you keep coming back as "undeliverable." What's up? You OK? Gently and the guys
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 12:38:11 (MST)
morning flight boy do i feel old, my oldest son took his driving test yesterday an past. man never thought i'd see the day. but proud. i guess i still think of myself as that twenty year old that did his thing in nam. 55 and still counting.======== hey rick thanks for the info on the tinnitus. going to try to file next week.========wish i could be with you all at the wall,never been their, one day soon i hope. i'll be their in spirit. keep it together all.==from 010 with love wink 3/69-10/70
barry winkler <cobra129th@aol.com>
lakeland, fl USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:15:27 (MST)
Alex, while we're at the re-union next June, we should take Joe up on his flying offer. Poor Joe, little does he know what he could be in for,as Rick England would say YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!, or something like that. And "sweet cheeks" where art thou? Always there-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 15:25:06 (MST)
Jim!!!! Go to Heaven(when you're ready of course!)! Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 14:59:25 (MST)
FRED THE AREA THAT YOU MENTIONED, BLAINE SOUNDS LIKE WHERE DAD WAS FROM,,,HECK I DON'T KNOW FOR SURE. IF HE WERE STILL ALIVE DAD WOULD BE ABOUT 95 NOW. JUDITH, I WORK AT HUNTER ARMY AIRFIED IN SAVANNAH, GA. WE HAVE A COAST GUARD DET STATIONED AT THE AIRFIELD, SEND ME AN E-MAIL WITH YOUR REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HATS AND I'LL SEE WHAT I CAN DO TO GET THE HATS THAT YOU NEED. I WORK WITH A EX-NAVY GUY AND MABY HE MIGHT BE ABLE TO GET THE NAVY HAT FOR YOU,,,JUST SEND ME WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE AND I'LL GO FROM THERE. ANY OF YOU GUYS THAT ARE COMMING TO VISIT SAVANNAH, HOOK UP WITH ME AND I'LL TAKE YOU OUT TO THE AIRFIELD AND LET YOU FLY THE BLACKHAWK SIM THAT I WORK ON,,PRETTY IMPRESSIVE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT. YEAH I KNOW IT'S NOT A HUEY. I REALLY ENJOY THIS SITE,,,TO ALL WHO HAVE DEDICATED THE TIME AND TALENT TO MAKE IT POSSIBLE,,,MY HEART FELT THANKS TO YOU. LATER I THINK I HEAR THE MATING CALL OF A SIX-PACK.
JIM OLIVER <OLIVER_31683@HOTMAIL.COM>
SAVANNAH, GA USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 07:29:40 (MST)
Been real busy at work, and today was the first i had to catch up on the commo in here. It sure takes awhile if you don't keep up. Ray, I do remember the pilots Messing with the people that didn't normally fly and the pilots would do a turn so they were almost falling out of the ship and the Auto rotations. If they didn't have their seat belts fastened, they would be grabbing everything on the seat trying to find them. I remember an Air Force Full Colonel that we were taking south and he leaned over to me and said i know you guys can get these things to the ground safely if the engine fails or you lose power, but don't you have any parachutes. I had to tell the pilots and we all had a good laugh. I also remember you asked him how long he had been in the Air Force and didn't hear his answer, but i know you called him a Lifer. I hope the Brothers that are going to the Wall in a few days are safe and thanks for representing the 129th. Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 06:35:48 (MST)
Here is some VA info. ******************************************************************* I got a letter yesterday from the State of Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. If this applies to you, you may want to run down to the nearest veterans service officer to see if it is worthwhile to file for separate ratings for each ear, just in case. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recently published a proposed change to clarify the rating schedule for tinnitus. The proposed change states that a veteran is only entitled to a single 10 percent rating for tinnitus even if tinnitus is present in both ears. The proposed change may go into effect as early as November of this year. The Court of Veterans Appeals has been asked to determine if the present rating schedule permits a veteran with service connected tinnitus in both ears to receive two separate ratings. If the Court adopts the position that two ten percent ratings are allowed, the veterans who file a claim for separate ratings before the regulation goes into effect may receive separate ratings. All others are likely to be rated under the new rule and receive only one rating. Our records indicate that you are service connected for tinnitus. If you wish to file a reopened service connected claim, please contact....... The Veterans Claims Examiner assigned to your claim will help you determine whether you may benefit from filing a claim for separate ratings for tinnitus.
Rick England
USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 17:32:11 (MST)
Good morning flight. I'm back. Went through a little illness, but I can't be kept down. Alex, thank you so much for the Marine hat. It will be placed on our POW/MIA Table at every ceremony "The Table" is at. I can't thank you enough. Just can't. Ray, stay tough. We love you and you are never alone, never. It certainly was wonderful to get back to the site after being gone for a week: so much being said, so much support being shown...speaking of being shown...it's funny but, funny but? Who's got a funny butt? Ron Paye, Sir, of course!!!!! Always there, especially for you Ron;.)-Gently
Gently <jsinger@uwm.edu>
USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 07:46:56 (MST)
..hey Ron Paye!!!!!!!!!..member the day we walked the walk, with Jerry Elliots sister, and his piece of of Tail rotor section that her and Mike T. found over in Nam??????....and then placed it at the "WALL"....I was just watchin' the TRAVEL CHANNEL.......on a show about the "WALL"........and some of the stuff left there.............they showed Jerry's "BLADE BOX" for about 10 seconds......man!!!!!!!!!!./...........WE WHERE THERE, AND PART OF THAT!!!!!!!! .........I feel warm, loved, hand on my right shoulder, blessed, Safe, comforted, satisfided, Happy, thankful, grateful, did I say warm?????......please keep talken my friends, Tell me the things that Larry would of!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!YOU!!!!ALL!!!!!HAVE!!!!!!!!!!!!NO!!!!!!!!!!IDEA!!!!!!!WHAT!!!!!!!YOU!!!!!!!!MEAN!!!!!!!!!!!!TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!....I, and Many, lost a brother..........I shall rest tonight with the thought of knowing all the brothers and sisters I have gained. You all do the same..........if you ever think that you have never done anything, for anybody................hear this............you have givin' back to me, a side of my life that I pushed aside for 25 years......as you did............my brothers time, and yours, over there................Thanks........................ always a brother, Mark
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 23:03:33 (MST)
My #is 623 388 2628. I am leaving at the WALL a POW MIA flag with the 129th Assault Helicopter Co. on it w/an Air Medal which is earned not given. Be careful out there FLIGHT I will be proud to see our brothers and sisters that didn't make the Freedom Bird.
Rick England <bd431@mindspring.com>
USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 20:36:42 (MST)
Rick England I misplaced the phone number you sent me. Can you send it again. 4 days and a wake up to D.C. Trying to find a way we might get to see Ray. Ray sorry to hear about the job. But, keep the faith and everything will work out. We here at the 129th are standing beside you. Found a Marine Hat for Judith but, she still needs a NAVY, Coast Guard Hat. Maybe one of you Brothers out there can help her out. It's for a Great cause. And Judith hope you get feeling better. Fred Skaggs- What can I say about those Buckeyes!! Both they have Michigan coming up. Would like to see the Buckeyes take that game. Mark glad to see you could take a evening off from the POP-A-TOP!! Hope you was able to get some quailty time with the family. Didn't have enough time for Liz and I to drive up last week. But, there's always a next time. Rainer if you get a chance check in. Hope you and Dee had a good stay in Tunica. So ,Target isn't a vetearn company. But, WalMart might get my shopping from now on. You All take care out there! Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 16:34:54 (MST)
HELLO TO MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS... FRED I NEVER GAVE IT A THOUGHT ABOUT WATER BEING MORE EXPENSIVE THAN THE GAS BUT IT TRUE HERE TO,,SO HOW U DOING FRED...JUST WANT TO KEEPIN TOUCH WITH YOU ALL... SO TAKR CARE OK... A BROTHER ALWAYS...RAY ROB HOW ARE YOU DOING BE SAFE ALL
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET , MD USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 09:26:58 (MST)
Jimmie O.....Like that little dirty joke they tell on people from Kentucky, we`re all related to each other. Where at in Lawrence county is your Dad from? There is a bunch of Skaggs`s from that county. The Pop-A-Top is located in western Ohio off I-75, between Dayton and Lima. It`s about 7 or 8 miles from the Indiana border. Coldwater is maybe bigger than Sandy Hook. It`s a neat area of Ohio, big time farm country, Mercer county I think!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 09:10:06 (MST)
HEY FRED,,,THIS IS JIM O,,YEAH GOOD BUDDY I WAS BORN IN ELIT COUNTY,,WE MOVED TO CARTER CO. AFTER THE 4TH GRADE,,I GUESS THE BIG TOWN OF SANDY HOOK WAS GETTING CROWDED. I ENTERED THE SERVICE IN ASHLAND. DAD'S OLDEST BROTHER MARRIED A SKAGGS. MY DAD'S FAMILY ALSO CAME FROM LAWERANCE CO. ALSO,,,HEY YOU NEVER KNOW BUT THERE IS A POSSIBLITY OF AT LEAST A FAMILY CONNECTION THERE. WHERE'S THIS POP A TOP LOCATED,,I HAVE A LOT OF FAMILY AROUND THE COLUMBUS AND FAIRBORN AREA. WHEN I WAS A KID GROWING UP I THOUGHT GTO MEANT GOING TO OHIO. EVERYONE HAVE A GOOD ONE,,,IT'S A RAINY DAY IN GA. JIM OLIVER
JIM OLIVER <OLIVER_31683@HOTMAIL.COM>
SAVANNAH, GA USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 08:11:14 (MST)
OBSERVATION: I went to fill up the truck this morning like always on Monday`s for my wife Kim. Also Kim takes her own "bottle water" to work with her. As I was paying my bill, it dawn on me that," I`m paying more for a gallon of water than a gallon of gas!!!!!!!!Something is really wrong here!!!!!!Maybe I`ve been slow on the "up-take", but I got a problem with that.
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 07:17:36 (MST)
Expressions of the south**********1. "Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit."******** 2. "It's been hotter'n a goat's butt in a pepper patch."************************ 3. "He fell out of the ugly tree and hit every branch on the way down."***************** 4. "Have a cup of coffee, it's already been 'saucered and blowed.'"*************** 5. "She's so stuck up, she'd drown in a rainstorm."***************** 6. "It's so dry, the trees are bribing the dogs."************** 7. "My cow died last night so I don't need your bull."*************** 8. "Don't pee down my back and tell me it's raining."****************** 9. "He's as country as cornflakes."*************** 10. "This is gooder'n grits."(((((((((((((((( 11. "Busier than a cat covering crap on a marble floor."************** 12. "If things get any better, I may have to hire someone to help me enjoy it."********* Be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 06:08:28 (MST)
Gale! That was an outstanding reply. I thought I might have boxed you in, but you outsmarted me. I concede. You da man. I also have the utmost love and respect for you my friend. Waiting to see Judith's response:>))) Will you and the lil lady be heading to Coldwater for the xmas party? Hope so...............Rick! I was just trying to pull a few chains. Follow up on the great time at Kokomo. Frank Davis did call and said he had met you. Good to see he is in your group. He is a great guy and can be a good mentor for you on your journey. It is a path he has traveled himself. He said he will be at the airport to see you off.......... Moon Pie Mark, I love you to bro. But don't get a big head. I love Dee more:>))))))) To the rest of the flight, here is a good joke.>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Maintenance Monkey A tourist walked into a pet store and was looking at the animals on display. While he was there, a Command Sergeant Major (CSM) from the local airfield walked in and said to the shopkeeper, "I'll take a 6114 monkey, please." The man nodded, went to a cage at the side of the store and took out a monkey. He put a collar and leash on the animal and handed it the CSM, saying, "That'll be $1,000." The CSM paid and left with the monkey. Surprised, the tourist went to the shopkeeper and said, "That was a very expensive monkey. Most of them are only a few hundred dollars. Why did that one cost so much?" The shopkeeper answered, "Ah, that 6114 monkey, he can rig aircraft flight controls, score 300 on the Army APFT, set up a perimeter defense and perform the duties of any warrant officer with no back talk or complaints. It's well worth the money." The tourist spotted a monkey in another cage. "That one's even more expensive--$10,000! What does it do?" "Oh, that one is a "Maintenance Supervisor" monkey; it can instruct at all levels of maintenance, supervise maintenance at the unit, intermediate, and Depot level, and even do most of the paperwork. A very useful monkey indeed," replied the shopkeeper. The tourist looked around a little longer and found a third monkey in a cage. The price tag read, "$50,000". The shocked tourist exclaimed, "That one costs more than all the others put together! What in the world could it do?" "Well, I've never actually seen him do anything but drink beer and play with his dick, but his papers say he's a Helicopter Pilot! The best to you all. Love and Brotherhood. Ron Paye
Ron Paye <ronpaye@comcast.net>
Indy, IN USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 20:57:03 (MST)
Job Offer: A young, tattooed man with long greasy hair, baggy pants and several body piercings walked into the local welfare office, marched straight up to the counter and said, "Hi, I'm lookin' for a job.". The man behind the counter replied, "Your timing is amazing. We've just got a listing from a very wealthy man who wants a chauffeur/bodyguard for his nympho daughter. You'll have to drive around in a big black Mercedes, but the suits, shirts, and ties are provided. Because of the long hours of this job, meals will also be provided and you will also be required to escort the young lady on her overseas holidays. The salary package is $200,000 a year.". The young guy said, "Ah c'mon, you're bullshitting me!". The man behind the counter said, "Well, you started it!".
alvis
USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 18:56:25 (MST)
Vietnam Veterans Not Worthy Of Target's Help? > > > > By Dick Forrey, Vietnam Veterans Association We asked our local Target > store to be a sponsor of the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Wall during our > spring recognition event. We received back a reply from Target management > that "veterans do not meet our area of giving. We only donate to the areas > of arts, social actions and education." My thought: if the Vietnam Veterans > Memorial Wall and the Vietnam veteran himself, does not meet the criteria of > these areas, something is wrong at Target. We were not asking for thousands > of dollars, not even hundreds, but simply sponsorship endorsement for a > "memorial remembrance". As follow-up, I e-mailed the corporate Headquarters > and their response was the same. Personally, I will NOT be buying anything > at Target Stores again. If the Vietnam Veteran does not meet their area of > giving then why should I, as a Vietnam Vet, spend my hard earned money in > their stores? Please pass this only to as many people as you know. Maybe > Target and other businesses will get the message. > http://media.smilepop.com/smilepop/flash/10_2002/sept02-smilepop-bugseren2.s > wf > swf Harry J. Peterman > > *AFIT/MSF (FACMAN) Facility Manager Bldg 642, Room 1205 > > 2950th "P" Street Wright Patterson AFB, Oh 45433 > > * (937) 255-6565, 4343 Cell: (937) 475-6108 > > > > > > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] > >
alvis
USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 18:54:17 (MST)
Ron Debates....Montana beat Furman U. last year for the championship, and Georgia Southern beat Montana in 2000 for the championship and beat Youngstown State in 1999. Youngstown State won the National Championship in 1991,93,94,and 97. Georgia Southern moved up to Division 1-A, you guys can make a run at it this year........
Fred Skaggs
USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 14:41:28 (MST)
Ron DeBates, OF COURSE I`m well aware of the Montana. Youngstown State have played and beat them for National Championship......the coach of Youngstown State was Jim Tressel(the present coach of Ohio State) and I think Youngstown State have played them twice for the Championship. Montana is always good......at that level they still have "the scholar-athlete" so to speak. I`ll have look up in the archives and check it out.
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 14:00:13 (MST)
Good afternoon flight. Great to read all the commo. Just getting caught up - been awful busy. Went to the helicopter game website - what a kick. Don Miller - you're exactly right - habit forming as hell! Got back from Helena (MT) last night. Went for executive meetings of American Legion. The Army Guard unit up there was deactivating their Hueys and going to Blackhawks. They had a formation of seven give us a flyover in honor of our meeting. The temp outside was about 9 degrees above zero; and you could hear them coming for miles. It was absolutely awesome, and pretty emotional for all there. Most in attendance were WWII and Korean veterans - they were pretty impressed. No wonder we couldn't sneak up on anybody?!?! Does any of you guys remember Camp Holloway before we went into Cambodia - legally? All them helicopters in formation and on the runway? Quite an awesome sight. Still have some good pics of it. With all the football talk, somebody should give some consideration to the Montana Grizzlies. 23 straight wins and they were 1AA Champs last year. It probably doesn't sound like much when you're talking about the big schools - but remember - Montana as a state has less population than Cleveland Ohio...Freddie???? Jamie and I are huge football fans and follow both college and pro. Our daughter is attending Montana and making life just plain "interesting" for us. Ray - glad to hear your surgery went well. Watch your caller ID cuz I'll be on it one of these fine days to visit. Freddie - called and left a message - will call again soon after the birds stop roosting on the three phone wires out of Montana. Getting ready for our annual Veteran's Day Prime Rib dinner at the Legion - wish some of you could be here with us. It's a great evening for veterans and community alike. Certainly will be thinking of you all that day. Be well. Ron and Jamie DeBates
Ron DeBates <rebate@mcn.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 13:22:47 (MST)
Jimmie O....... Sandy Hook,Kentucky that`s Elliot County as they say down home.....I was born in Paintsville,Ky and raised by my Grandparents at Red Bush,Ky in Johnson County. Most of the Skaggs`s are from Lawrence County the Blaine area. I`m know that part of Kentucky very well. But like so many from Ohio and Indiana we have relatives or were born in the south. Readin, Writin,and Route 23 North is what they use to say.......
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 09:43:55 (MST)
SORRY MARK,,I JUST DIDN'T REMEMBER ENTERING THE FLIGHT THE WAY YOU DO,,I THOUGHT THAT BEFORE THAT I TYPE A COMMENT DIRECTLY ONTO THE LOG,,,IT'S JUST ME NOTHING WRONG WITH THE LOG,,,BEEN READING THE LOG A LOT ABOUT GOING ON'S IN THE BUCKEYE COUNTRY,,SPENT MY LABOR DAY IN THE CARROLL/CANNAL WINCHESTER AREA, THEN ON UP TO VERMILLION ON LAKE ERIE. I WAS BORN AND RAISED IN KY,,DAD WAS A JAILER IN KEITH WHITLEY'S HOMETOWN OF SANDY HOOK,,,ENOUGH ABOUT ME. GREAT SITE,,DIDN'T MEAN TO BE CRITICAL OR ANYTHING MARK.,,LATER BRO'S
JIM OLIVER <OLIVER_31683@HOTMAIL.COM>
SAVANNAH, GA USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 08:56:20 (MST)
Marky Mark.... You got a lot pro ball players from that area, Brad Kominsk(Lima Shawnee) Outfielder for the Atlanta Braves, Giants, in the mid 70`s, Nicky Witherspoon,Lima, played basketball in the Big Ten(Illinois) and Houston Rockets, Bonzi Wells(Bowling Green) plays for the Portland Trailblazers right now, but he's from up by Toledo. Bobby Hoying(St.Henry) Oakland Raiders second string quarterback, western Ohio has plenty of pro ball-players. There are more basketball and baseball players than football, that`s because of the Basketball influence from Indiana and Kentucky..... Alot of the kids we grew up with including myself, Grandparents and Parents were from the south originally. Kentucky and West Virginia. Dave Powers and I have talked about how amazing it is that so many Nam Vets are from "smalltown Midwest"or "smalltown America". It always seem like that, or they were from "California Dude....." What use to really crack me up, was all the brothers that had to "Go To Jail" or "Go In The Army"...... we had some "gangsters"in there. When I first got to the 129th, we had guy(from Cleveland,Ohio) that would steal the 1st Sargent`s jeep, routinely until he got caught. We know who he is...... don`t we Pete Rhome.......
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 07:50:03 (MST)
......Freddie Boy...........That useless buckeye you take of, When I was a lil' Moon, errrr. I mean boy.....damn you Ron;-)))).....we used to collect them from the trees around Coldwater, let thyem dry out, and then when we had camp fires, through them in the faie....they would "POP"..........COLDWATER HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL?????>.thats a fact......we are a town of 4900........# 1 in the state, have been in the play offs for the last 5 years. Lost the final 2 years ago on the final play with a "mooned" call by the refs....No pros have come from Coldwater yet, sept me......I have something in common with Al Bundy.WE both wore #33, and both scored 4 TD's in one game I say that as I slide my hands down the front on my pants!!!..RON....you should try that, feels lots better then a moon......unless you are aimin' that MOON at the Genlty...now I can see where that would feel good;-)))))))............but some near by. Jim Lashaigh stared with the Red Skins and then finished his career somebody else. Now is head annoucer of the Buckeye games. Jeff Harting also came from St Henry. Three miles down the road.....Star at Penn state, then with detroit, Now with the Steelers.......might be injured now I think!!!. We have had some great times from this AO.......must be something in the corn, or water, or something.........last year we have 4 teams from our league in the play offs. ..................HEY???, CAN YOU GUYS TELL THAT I HAVE THE NIGHT OFF FROM THE POP-A-TOP???.....IS GOOD TO LEAVE GOOD FRIENDS, AND COME HOME AND SET WITH GREAT FRIENDS.... .......JIM OLIVER????..........WHAT DID YOU MEAN BY THAT.....DID YOU HAVE A HARD TIME GETTIN' IN THE FLIGHT LOG BOOK???..LET ME KNOW.........I DID GET MAIL FROM MY HOST THAT I FORGOT TO PAY THE BILL AGAIN, AND THE PAGE MIGHT BE SHOUT OFF, BUT STILL SEEMS TO BE WORKING YET.....YOU ALL TAKE CARE...........EVERY DAY WITH YOU ALL, IS SUCH A WONDERFUL THING...........ALWAYS A BROTHER...........MARK
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 19:51:37 (MST)
***********....JUST GOT THIS MAIL.....CHECK IT OUT CREW Mark: I just found your web site thanks to a note from Les Goodman and Don Latham. I think you have done a terrific job. The photos and remembrances have taken me on quite a trip this afternoon. I was particularly moved by the tributes to Jim Young, who was killed on June 26, 1971. For 30 years I have struggled with the events of that morning. Little did I know that I wasn't alone. Keith (Lurch) Weisheit and Dan Baxter have provided wonderful tributes to Jim on your website. I am impressed and humbled by their eloquence and memory for detail (Who knew WOs could even write...just kidding). Please include the attached remembrance, which I posted November 11, 2000, on the Vietnam Veterans Virtual Wall website in hopes that it would reach Jim's friends and family. Also, please include my contact info on your website. Lurch: If memory serves, you were a lanky, easy going guy. Never knew you were such a gifted writer and poet. Hope you are well. Dan: Were you the guy that always had a cigar in your mouth? If so, I remember a good story about the coke-can spittoon you carried in your aircraft. Thanks again for the memories. Let's stay in touch. Tom Hausman thausm01@harris.com Flew w/ 129th 1970-71 Jim Young (Vietnam Veterans Virtual Wall) Posted 11/11/00 for: JAMES MICHAEL YOUNG: I was the aircraft commander on Jim's helicopter the day that he was killed. Jim was a door gunner in the 129th Assault Helicopter Company. We flew UH-1H (Huey) helicopters in support primarily of a Korean infantry company located adjacent to our airfield. On the 26th (June 1971) our mission was to insert Korean troops into the mountains surrounding the Suey Cao (sp?) Valley. It was known to be a hot area, with a lot of enemy activity. On the third troop insertion that morning, we were the lead aircraft on to a hilltop that had received fire the previous day. However, the hill could not be prepped by gun ships because there were Korean troops on the ground. As we touched down to allow the Korean troops to disembark, we began to receive heavy automatic weapons fire from the right side, which is where Jim was sitting as the door gunner. We immediately took off. One of the rounds severed my radio cord, so I was unable to communicate with the crew. Our hydraulics also had been disabled. We landed in the valley below the hilltop. As we landed, no one in the ship was aware that Jim had been shot. A sister ship had followed us into the valley and we loaded Jim and the rest of the crew onto that aircraft for the evacuation to a hospital. It was clear that Jim had died instantly and had not suffered. The seven Koreans that we inserted on the hilltop also lost their lives that day. I think of Jim often and have been to the Wall many times to seek out his name and engraving. He was well liked by everyone in our platoon and company. He was a great kid, full of energy and spunk, a fresh face and a positive attitude that elevated all of us. He would have been 50 this Centennial year. Respectfully Submitted, Cpt. Frank T. (Tom) Hausman
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright.net>
USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 19:31:57 (MST)
.....Hey Ron Paye....Ha,ha....;-))))))))))))))))...yeah, right!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!;-)))))))))))
Mark Jackson <fourfour@bright>
USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 18:25:31 (MST)
WHAT THE HECK,,,NEVER WENT THROUGH THIS THE LAST TIME I POSTED IN THE LOG,,,BEFORE VACATION
JIM OLIVER <OLIVER_31683@HOTMAIL.COM>
SAVANNAH, GA USA DAM RIGHT - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 18:20:18 (MST)
I am from Euclid Ohio and we were state wrestlers a few years in a row with Maple Hieghts.Like Canton mcKinnily and Massiolon I know the spelling is wrong I am sure someone will correct that. This was back in the 60s.*******Ron that was a long way of saying what??????????hehehehehehe You need a little.Hehehehehehehe. Just joking brother. Ron did you get my commo on your friend I met Frank Davis. Thats intresting that the 129th had so many from that area of the USA.
Rick England
USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 12:42:04 (MST)
Whoa.....COLDWATER 54 SPRINGFIELD NORTH 12, Mark you haven`t told these brothers and sisters that Coldwater is NO.1 in the state in football, it`s division. I don`t care what anybody says, Smalltown Ohio High School football is the greatest at play-off time. Alex, they took a survey a few years back, and more pro football players come out of the Triangle Area, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia panhandle, than any where in the U.S. In the last 20 years because of the Steel Mills and factory`s closing down, the shift has been to the South. That`s where population shift went for jobs. But Ohio still the "American Football Capital" of the world... Mark, wish I was home for the play-offs. But Coldwater better look out for Kenton, Ohio....they got a big time quarterback...Ben Mauck is his name. He sign with Wake Forest down here in N.C. There is a kid from Dublin, Ohio( the suburb that Kim and I lived before we moved) has a kid named Brady Quinn,Quarterback, 6 ft, 5in tall and 220lbs , signed with Notre Dame. His father(Phil) and I use to play softball and drink beer together. Ohio State didn`t want him, because they recruited the No.1 prospect last year, Justin Zwick, remember that name because he the best we`ve recruited in years. Let me get ready for college football gameday, to see the Buckeyes, I have to get it by pay-per-view. Go Bucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 09:03:27 (MST)
Moon (moon), n.,v., mooned, mooning.-Slang. to expose one's buttocks suddenly and publicly as to gain points with the judges at Kokomo. It worked....Ron received 10's across the board for style & presentation. Ahhhh...mooning. Such a simple, wonderfully way to get your point across to another person or in this case a group. Thanks Ron, because, unfortunately the art of mooning has been butted into obscurity. In the illusion of progress the sacred two-cheek salute has been slowly but surely replaced by grabbing your crotch or flipping people the bird. So much can be said by the gesture of showing your a-- to other people. Contrary to Opra & Dr Phil (who has had vasectomy & had it reversed), it is a definitive end to any discussion, or with a subtle twist (Judith,Gently),it can be an open invitation for further discourse. According to Dr Phil ( who bases his expertise on being mooned by Opra more than once, the most common moon is accomplished with a slight forward bend & a lowering of the pants so as to expose your rear end to the targeted group and the quality is determined by quantity of a-- shown & the overall duration of the moon. In Kokomo, the campfire glowing off of one cheek really won it pants, oops, hands down. Now, as far as me being accused of being "like that", in my defense....I didn't sleep in the tent with Ron. Maybe that's why Rick kept calling it a "poop tent" instead of a pup tent. Yes, there was a full moon over Kokomo. If anyone wants to know why "WE" seem to be obsessed with Ron's butt....there is a photo of it on this site: http://www.goofyphotos.com/fun/moontwin.htm check it out! Ron, you did get some things right......I do love and respect you Brother!! Clear left, Gale ( | ) \^/
Gale Beard <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 08:11:42 (MST)
Fred: Lost a lot of money on the Ohio State and Michigan games. Browns and Steelers always a good game. I remember Broadway Joe, when he played high school football in Beaver Falls PA. Alot, of great players came from Ohio State, and surrounding areas. My mother-in-law gave Liz and I a Buckeye nut to carry for good luck. Liz won the pick 3 on the lottery. About $300.00 of coarse I didn't do any good. But, glad to back to some warm weather. Was surprized to find out the Rick England was from the Cleveland area. Hope you and Kim can make Atlanta in June. Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, TN. USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 07:50:33 (MST)
HELLO ALLO....JUST WANT TO WISH ALL WHO AREGOINGTO DC A SAFE TRIP.. TAKE CARE MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS RAY
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
STREET, MD USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 06:18:50 (MST)
Alex...speaking of Buckeyes, true story, I was in Italy and drove to Pisa to see the "Leaning Tower". As I open my car door and put my foot on the ground, I heard a crunch underneath my foot. I look to see what it was, and lo and behold it was a Buckeye!!!! I had parked under a Buckeye Tree, Swear to God!!!! If everyone don`t know what a Buckeye is, It`s a useless nut!!!!! I`ve been told they`re poison if you eat one. Alex, also my mother was born in Memphis in 1930 and my ex-wife is from Pittsburgh. You also got to remember the Browns vs The Steelers, that`s why they don`t like Ohio!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, N.C. USA - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 20:56:59 (MST)
Judith: Are you still hovering around. Sent you a few emails. Need to know where to send the hat,you were needing. Email me an address!! Fred Skaggs now I know why those folks in Pittsburgh PA. was honking at me,I was driving a rental with Ohio license plates last Saturday. Ohio State Won!! Well flight a week from tomorrow will meet Rick England another transplanted Buckeye, in Washington D.C. for the 20th anniversary of the Wall. Should be a huge turn out. Sorry won't be able to make the POP-A-TOP Dec. 14th. Take Care Alex
Alex Fernwalt <afernwal@midsouth.rr.com>
Memphis, Tn. USA - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 16:41:57 (MST)
Good Morning Flight, Just needed a little "down time". After Kim came home from Colorado, the "in-laws" were in town for a week. So I took the "Grand Tour" with my father-in-law of Revolutionary War and Civil War battlefields in N.C. He`s a real historian on that stuff, plus he`s a real "black powder" person. He builds his own muskets as a hobbie. But he`s great father-in-law. Then Kim and I took off for the mountains, really pretty this time of year. So some great music coming out now......Santana`s new CD is outstanding, this guy has proven he`s not some "60`s Woodstock Hippie Relic", he truly mixes with the "young lions" of the music world bringing his "signature guitar licks" to every genre of music. Just a amazing musician. Now here comes a real pleasant surprize, and some history. Rick Derringer!!!! does anybody remember him? Well he started a group in Dayton,Ohio called "The McCoys", they had a regional hit called "Hang On Sloopy", that went on to be adopted as "The Ohio State University" fight song. But Mr.Derringer took his group south to Texas, and they met a guy named Johnny Winter. The McCoys became Johnny`s back-up group called " And" as in the album "Johnny Winter And" album in 1971. Rick co-wrote a song called "Rock and Roll Hoochie Coo". Then after that Mr. Derringer went on tour with "Edgar Winter and The White Trash". While on tour with Edgar Winter, he co-wrote two songs with Edgar. One song was "Frankenstein" and "Free Ride", which most should remember. Those were great party days for our age bracket, "73" and "74". Now on Edgar Winter`s "They Only Come Out At Night" album, Rick did not play, because Edgar had a new guitar man called Ronnie Montrose and Dan Hartman. Montrose went on to have a sucessful career with his own group called "Montrose". Dan Hartman wrote alot of disco hits and wrote the title song for the movie "Streets Of Fire" . The song was called " I Can Dream About You". But Rick had a hit song with "Free Ride" that was on his " All-American Boy" album in "74". Well Rick Derringer has a new Cd that is absolute killer. He has went to jazz and rearranged "Frankenstein" and "Free Ride" and "Rock and Roll Hoochie Coo" in a jazz arrangment. Best Cd I`ve bought in years. So if your out shopping for new music, that WE can relate to, get them two cd`s. Now Sports Fans, How bout them "OHIO STATE BUCKEYES"!!!!!!! they are going to a bowl for sure, but not the National Championship. Now the freshman running back Clarett is the best I`ve seen since Hersel Walker, but he`s not the star of the team. The star is a sophmore named Gamble, he`s "old school football" he plays both ways. On offense he plays big-time widereceiver, on defense he plays roverback big time hitter and pass defense. He`s the man!!!!!!! World Series.... I wanted the Giants to pull it out, but was happy for the Angels. Glad to see NO....Yankees or Braves.....By the way...the Braves are done... Maddux and Glavine are gone....free agents. Cleveland Browns what can I say....another couple of years away from Super Bowl team. Cincinnati Bengals....get those bums of the field...Mack Jackson I`m sorry, that`s your team. But I bet you a good college team could beat them. Brother Cups college team the Miami Canes, would beat them. Betcha!!!!!! Mike Brown the owner needs to back away and let a "football person" run that team. I know his daddy was Paul Brown, but he`s not his daddy. Let it go Mike!!!!!!!!!! I pretty much got things settled with my nephew, he`s in rehab at Mary Haven Rehab Center in Columbus.Ohio. Mark, you should go see him, I would love to see the look on his face when they tell him he has a visitor named, Mark Jackson!!!!!!. My brother has no problem with Jake going to jail, it`s my sister-in-law. Jake still her only baby!!!! I`ll see ya`all later, with more music and sports reports" I call it how I see it",and if I don`t see it, I make it up" just a joke, George Carlin humor....
Fred Skaggs <ac459429@earthlink.net>
Raleigh, N.C. USA - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 11:43:17 (MST)
hello brothers and sisters... just want to say hello to you all... iam doing ok.. just want to see how you are doing...Rob do you rember how when we got people who said they never flew How you would tell AC AND HOW WE HAVE SOME THAT NEVER FLEW HOW THEY WOULD MAKT DEEP TURNS SO DOOR SIDE WAS FACING DOWN OR WOULD LOW LEVEL AND HOW SKIDS ALMOST HIT TREES OR WE WOULD AUTO ROTAE SOME AND THE LOOK IN THERE FACES ..IT FUNNY HOW JUST SITTING THAT U THINK OF THINGS LIKE THIS... WELL TAKE CARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS A BROTHER ALWAYS...RAY
RAY GAGNER <STILWATING@aol.com>
street, md USA - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 11:06:34 (MST)
Flight,,,,,,, Several members in here have been rather callous with my reputation. I feel I must defend myself. There have been several reference's made in here of my baring certain "parts" of my body in public. In the past I have not replied as I did not want to stir up or cause any problems. Well it appears that the issue has again raised its ugly head, so I MUST defend myself. FIRST! To all of you that have never met me, let me start by saying that I am way to humble, modest and private a person to do ever do such a dastardly thing as bare myself in public. It would shame me waaaaay to much. After all the army said I was an "officer and a gentleman." SECOND!! I could not understand why anyone would accuse me of such a humiliating thing. So, I called Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Phill and asked them for some advice. Basically here is what they had to say. Dr. Phill said that some times a person can desire someone so much that they spend an incredible amount of time thinking and fantasizing about that person. After a while the fantasy and desire can become so real that the person will imagine they are seeing someone in a less than fully clothed position. To that person it looks like the person desired may be in a state of undress, or less than fully clothed. When in fact they "ARE FULLY" dressed. Oprah stated that that would explain why a certain young lady ((who shall remain anonymous here, but her initials are (Gently, Judith, Sister etc.) would THINK she has seen parts of my body naked.) She wants me. I asked him but, WHY!!! would a male think he had seen me in a state of undress. He said basically it could be the same reason as the young lady. He may have an intense desire for you, (((Gale!!! say it aint so buddy, your girl friend is way to good looking for you to be wanting me))) I told Dr. Phill that I didn't know for sure but, I didn't think Gale was "like that." But then again......... there was an awful lot of green eye brown eye stuff on this net for a while....... Phill (we were friends by now) said that it might be the old worship thing. He said in certain cases, a person can worship, or respect someone so greatly that that person can become godlike in that persons mind. That person (me) can be so respected and admired that others will see him in such a pure and natural state that they may visualize them as pure and unclothed. It is not sexual but more of a worship thing. Gale, that made me feel a lot better but, in the future I will still sleep on my back at Kokomo. THIRD!!! I asked my buddy Phill about claim's that people had pictures of me... how shall I say this......mooning in public? He said that unless they were "butt experts" or had seen someone naked an awful lot,,,,,,there was noooo way anyone could tell by looking at a picture who's butt belong to who. SO.......... in defense of myself let me again state that at no time have I ever bared my rear in public and any clams to the contrary are being made by a person who fantasizes about me and desires me sexually, or by someone who has great respect for me and worships me,,,,,,, OR some one who is a "Butt Expert." Take your pick........:>)))))) PS my cute little butt will be at the Pop-A-Top on Dec 14th. for the Christmas party. How do you like me now!!!!
Ron, an officer and a gentleman Paye <ronpaye@comcast.net>
Naked City, IN USA - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 05:39:26 (MST)