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Welcome home John, we are a pretty strange bunch in here but then we were a pretty strange bunch 30+ years ago too. oh well ........... OK MARK I will admit that Dee is not perfect she has ONE fault. she still loves you. but then maybe that ain't THAT much of a fault. LOL. anyway ........ Gently consider this a confirmation I have one more together and it looks like that will be the end from me (maybe ;-)) we will have to see what I can scrape up. Y'all have fun at the Pop-a-Top and take LOTS of pictures for us that can't make it. Later, Don
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 19:23:31 (MST)

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alvis; i live about 70 miles sw of chicago.where interstates 39 and 80 cross
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 15:35:24 (MST)

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Paul, what part of the great state of ilnoise you live in? I live in Indy and Gale lives just north of Terra Huate Indiana
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 14:34:07 (MST)

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ive got one copy i can let you guys have. it is mostly 498th butyou might find some of it interesting. the shoot em up on the side of the hill is a daytime one kim.if somebody wants to send me an address atmy wifes first name(ida) and my first name at yahoo.com i'll send it to ya. you should be able to make copies. paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 11:52:12 (MST)

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John, welcome home brother and to our family.......and what a family it is! Mark normal?????? Man....where does that put the rest of us!!!?? I agree with you Mark about Winks eyes......they are sure hard to stare into and even harder when he puts his glasses "ON"! LOL!!! I think he needs to get a patent on that "Wink dance" (which I recall you doing with him before). Can't wait for LZ San Antonio! Ted, good talkin to you the other night and also Paul. Flight, I'm working on a Christmas ornament and hope to get them in the mail soon. If anyone has moved in the past year please send me your new address. Also, any NFG's that found this site within the last year send me your address. Alvis, we can't make the Pop A Top party. We had already started remodeling our kitchen when Debbie lost her job due to "RESTRUCTURING" and we'll be finishing that up that weekend. We tore out the bulkheads over the cabinets (which we are keeping), tore out the dropped ceiling and went back to 9 foot. I re-wired for new lights & fan myself. The drywallers came in yesterday did the ceiling and will be back to "skim coat" the walls, then we can put it back together again. Then we have to "restructure" our life and finance's. Clear, Gale
Gale 67-68 <beardatpaige1@cs.com>
Clinton, In US of A - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 09:35:26 (MST)

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Oh right, Gently!!! Dee normal???....how could she be if she still loves me, and so do you, as far as that goes. YEEEEHAAAAAA!!!!, as the world renoun Ernist T. Kreabs says. Oh My Gosh!!!.We forgot to warn John about "WINK"....oh brother. Ya know, the thing that really gets me about Wink is his eyes. Yeah, it's in his eyes!!!! That is ifin' ya can get by his rotten teeth......always a brother, and love to all, God Bless..
Mark
` - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 09:01:22 (MST)

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Crew! Hi John! Join in the square dance here at the 129th-it never stops! Everybody think Christmas Fund----because you may have another Rotor Tail bracelet to bid for! Looks like that darn Don Miller has created another one! Yikes! Can we live through another bidding war:>)))))))) I'll let you know as soon as he confirms it. What a guy! Also, one of the students from the University i work at/for is a Blackhawk pilot in northern Iraq-here's his email if you old Huey guys want to taunt him with your helicopter prowess:>) david.laack@us.army.mil . His name ois DAvid Laack, I've not met him, but we communicate via email. He also made a music CD of him flying and "hanging" out in Iraq which is very, very cool in Iraq. I bet he's scared. If you get a minute......jaw at him. John, a word of advice....Mark jackson is a very weird man. The only normal thing about him is his beautiful wife Dee. But no matter what everyone else says about him...I love'em. LOL!!! Ray is in great pain these days, which is why we're not hearing from him. He'd love a phone call. With my arms around you-Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 07:06:13 (MST)

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Had a friend decipher what he could of some of my uncles records. I haven't been able to do much research on it all yet because my grandpa has been more than a handful. He isn't as bad as either of my other grandparents were at this point in the whole thing but its going faster and faster...very hard to witness. Here is what my friend had to say about part of it. Olen spent one month in the 76 Engineer Co , 8 months in the 647th Quartermaster Co. and 15 months as a door gunner with the 48th Avation Company and the129th Avn Co. Most door gunners were volunteers cause it was a pretty dangerous job A tour in Viet Nam was 365 days so he extended to stay a door gunner. Probably a pretty brave guy that hated to leave his brothers in battle He was a door gunner during Tet 68. He was trained to be an Armor Crewmam and a Wheel Mechanic. He joined on 1 March 65 for 3 years and extended his tour by 5 months. He was qualified as an expert with the rifle. He was awarded the Viet Nam Service Medal , National Defence Service Medal , Viet Nam Canpaign Medal , Air craft crewmans award and the Air Medal. Really need to get looking into it all.
Melody Pershall <m e l o d y 1 1 8 1 @ y a h o o . c o m>
Amarillo, TX USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 23:54:51 (MST)

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Hey Kim, I resemble that remark!!!! :-)))).....see John, Tols cha so.......Paul and John. I am a collector of all about the 129th. Let me know if you can make copies for me.
Mark
USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 20:52:05 (MST)

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don't believe a thing that that either one of those right wing, neo conservative, Rush Limbaugh wannabees tell you, John. Neither Freddie Skaggs or I have ever tried to create a 'controversy' on this web site!!!! Welcome home. :>)) One bit of truth...watch out for Gently, I can't accuse her of anything, but.........trouble seems to follow her. !!!
Kim
USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 20:42:43 (MST)

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Paul, by any chance, is there one of those clips of a recon by fire? I know that we did a few of them, late summer of 71. One in particular was a night I let Mr. Lovejoy fire my M-1 carbine out his window. We were firing up a hill on the north west side of Lane ( we figured the base commander wanted to give some VIP a show). There were a bunch of guys sitting on top of the hootches, some video ing with a super eight camera. The pop-pop-pop of that M-1 came through quite clear. Quite a contrast to the braaaaapppppp of the mini guns!!!! It was quite a rush sitting beside the guns when they were firing at night. Flame going back over the gun, a ball of red flying away from the ship, not separating for a couple hundred yards. Hey honest Alvis!!!! you remember any of this???heheheeeeeeeee
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 20:35:31 (MST)

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WELCOME HOME and back to the 129th John. Glad you made it back. I see that the habitual liar "Alvis" ( pronounced Elvis ) has already tried to sway you to his side. Can you believe it, he claims to be from Topalo. Bah!!!!....Actaully I am the only one that never lies or talks behind others back in here. Be careful of the one that comes in here as "Gently". Gentle my International Washboard # 512!!!! Then there is Alex. Earlier this year at the reunion he faked a foot injury so everybody would feel sorry for him. Actually I heard someone say that they saw him sliding butt naked in the shower there!.. UGHHHH!!!!Speakin' of butt naked. Watch out for a guy named Ron Paye. For some reason he goes round droppin' his pants anywhere for absolutly no reason at all. Matter of fact I have seen photos of all the guys drop thier pants at the same time. Of course I never did such a thing. Thats disgusting. Dont you think John? Then there is Ray, and Rick, and Kal, and Gale, and rainer, and Cups. Can you believe it? A guy named Cups. Then there is Skaggs and Kim. Man do those two hooliegans raise cane in here. Then there is Robbie. Well, I just better let you meet Robbie on your own.....Now me, just to show you how sane I am, I just finished puttin' my Pop's ashes in a wiffle ball with high gloss finish in it so's I can put him on top the garage so's he can torment the workers from now on. So ya see John. Just only believe me in here.......welcome home brother, always a brother....
Mark
USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 20:24:44 (MST)

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Paul, Mark and I are both sort of collectors( espically Mark) of Cds from our units "ao".
alvis
USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 19:57:05 (MST)

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Welcome home John and welcome to the site.Lots of great folks in here,we are all family.A few yarns get spun in here ( I am the only one you can believe) and we have a good time,pass on information,rumors and talk behind each others back constantly ( I am the only one who doesnt).We have folks in here from your time frame up to when the 129th stood down (I was the the day after you left untill I crewed the last helicopter out of vietnam in 92)They are all bull ^&&* in here except me of course,I am a saint.The rest of them are rascals,not to be believed,trusted nor left alone with any woman.Lock up your alcohol when any of them vist,along with any other valuables you wish to keep.Once again, welcome.
alvis
USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 19:52:36 (MST)

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Hi Mark, I served in 129th 3 Jan 1966 to 4 Jan 1967. I was a secrity guard. I have a Letter of Commendation dated 23 June 1966. Its for Operation "Hawthorne" which was conducted 2-19 June 1966, vicinity of Dak To, Republic Vietman. I also have pictures to send. Please e-mail me back to let me know if you are interested in this information.
John L. Christenson <johnlc340@hotmail.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 18:45:52 (MST)

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would any of you guys be interested in seeing some film shot mostly at 498th in 70-71 i didn't shoot it but i have a copy on dvd that i could pass around. there are a lot of scenes from lane and possibly some of you guys lining up guns on the side of a hill in back of the flight line.the film is about an hour and a half long. if you would like to see it let me know paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby , il USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 17:47:26 (MST)

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What a nice story for Mark. L-G
Gently
USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 13:36:04 (MST)

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shit, shot my mouth off,to many brandies after a very stresfull day. Think i will have another and go to bed.forgive my spelling and loss of train of thought.
ALVIS
USA - Saturday, November 27, 2004 at 23:22:33 (MST)

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The bar was like any small town bar,smokey,always having a few old codgers sitting at the bar. Sometimes,a younger person would also occupy one of the lonley seats. Empty tables on the left,bar running the full lenght on the right,kitchen in back.An old golden oldie would be playing in the background ,unheard,while folks nursed their drinks.A young fellow was playing pool with a friend,drinking beer. As all young men, they were full of themselves,full of piss and vineger.They were mostly ignored by the older patrons who just wanted to be left alone to remenise with their friends.One old man sat by himself,slowly drinking his beer,once in awhile looking up,and toasting to unseen friends.The younger fellows, noticing this, started to watch the old guy,making remarks between themselves.The bartender came over,gave them new beers,and spoke. He said,fellows,' you wouldnt know it but that man served his time in hell.When that man was young and fresh as you guys are,he went to war.He went against the grain,the popular thing to do at the time,and put on a uniform.I know in this day and age you wont understand,but bare with me a moment.He faced the fear of the unknown,of war,of his courage,of his make up as a man, of perhaps dieing.He joined an outfit that that had many job openings,job openings caused by death.Folks that knew things considered the job a death wish. He flew in helicopters.Fellows,the rumors had it that that flying in combat had a 10 second life expectcy.Yet,he did it anyway.He faced death, his fears,he embraced them.he left home,his friends,his way of life,his family.He lost friends there,saw them killed,saw their remains,but yet he continued.Death flew with him,his constant companion. He came back proud.He had seen the worst,and became the best.He was everything an american could ask.He had defended his flag,his honor,his friends and his life.When he got home,he faced a new fear.One he didnt know how to handle,one much worse than the fear of battle and gun smoke, of death and dishonor.He faced the fear of his friends and family, of society,of himself.He had changed,but yet he was still the same old guy.He was branded a killer,a druggie,someone who had lost all sense of decency.He didnt fit in anymore,he was more alone home, than on the battle fields.He was turned down for jobs,made a villan.Some of the vets snapped under this pressure,and made the prophcy come true.Some retreated into alcohol,drugs and self distruction,making the prophct come true again.Fellows, he has carries that burden for 30/40 years.He has also carried the burden of friends killed.That old man is a warrior in every sense of the word.He is a man in every sense of the word.He is an american in every sense of the word.Once he came down with orders for Nam, he had no idea what awaited him,there or here afterwards.Little did he know that the real fight started when he returned,with little hope of winning.Dont mess with that old man,he is still fighting his battles.Every time he sleeps.Every fourth of july he doesnt hear fireworks,he hears arty, flares and firefights.He doesnt hear the bugle play taps, he flashes back,he feels the loss of dead comrads,of friends ,closer than brothers.Boys, you see him look up once in a while and toasting unseen ghost.He sees them,for they live in his heart.He sees their face,hears their laughs, their unfilled dreams of when they get home.He honors their life and their death.he honors those who are his brothers.You will never know.He flew into places you never heard of,nor never will.He fought battles you will never know of,nor ever will.You might think he is crazy,but he is just remembering.He flew with the 129th assault helicopter company,one of a few helicopter units.He looks up and sees things on the wall from when he was young,brave and foolhearted.Boys, dont mistake him as just another old fool.By the way,my brother flew and died with the 129th,as this bar is named after him.This bar isnt just another small town town bar,its the pride of an era when some folks did what was right.
alvis
USA - Saturday, November 27, 2004 at 23:12:24 (MST)

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Jim, the xmas party is Dec. 4th,saterday.I am going to go by Rons house tomorrow for a quick vist,hope he is there. Susan and I usually only stay for a few hours,its a 2, 2 and 1/2 hour drive each way.I have to work the next day so cant stay over,and have to work the day before.
alvis
USA - Saturday, November 27, 2004 at 18:17:02 (MST)

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when is the Christmas party??? Mark / Fred anyone??? Please let me know, smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sher, wy USA - Saturday, November 27, 2004 at 18:01:44 (MST)

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Susan and I will be there Mark.Doesnt seem right if a 129ther isnt there its last day.
alvis
USA - Saturday, November 27, 2004 at 07:01:22 (MST)

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Alvis..Yes the 129th/173rd Christmas party will be the last weekend for the Pop-A-Top bar and grill. Spence e-mailed me and said plan on 60 eating. If any of the 129th are coming let me know so we have enough for all....... One of the salemen at the garage found a voice mail message from Pop dated back in September on his phone. Was eerie to hear his voice with so much life in it. Gently....just send me one I served, and 2 we support. Ray, Hope you are feeling better. Robbie, I love you brother.......Fred S. Coldwater lost in the state semifinals tonight 14/zip to Versailles. We beat them in regular season 10/7. Dang, I felt that this was the year. Oh well, it's just a game.....Take care all, God Bless, always a brother,
Mark
USA - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 21:28:15 (MST)

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Geez! Did a first grader type that? Dah! Me
Gently
USA - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 09:47:41 (MST)

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Jim, what a way to remember Thanksgiving every year! :>)))) Mark, got you covered on the magnets: "I Served" or "We support our Veterans"? and how many. I guess we'll hasve tyo collect and donate m ore items to what is now going to be the "Museum." Great idea Mr. Mark. And you and the family are still in my prayers...I miss my father also. Ray, damn it! Get better! Great news on the Christmas Fund! Someone who wants to remain unknown, and will, contributed $1000!!! Angels, angels, angels! VEry cool! But we are going to need a substantial amount in the Fund this year due to many being afferted so negatively by the economy and/or their health. We're at approximately $1300...dare we shoot for another $1000? All that means is $10 here, $20 there, whatever you can give. But again, do not do what you cannot do. I'm the only one who knows who does and who doesn't, and this is the third year of my being able to keep those secrets. But I love surprises....Gently(7221 W. BLuemound Road, Milwaukee WI 53213)
Gently
USA - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 09:46:27 (MST)

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Happy Turkey and be careful out there
Rick England
USA - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 07:54:05 (MST)

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Jim, that was some day to be thankful for, welcome back home.
alvis
USA - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 06:44:18 (MST)

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Mark,is the last night the bar is open, the night of the xmas party? Gale, you and Debbie going to make it? Susan and I plan to attend. If I remember how to get to Ron's house,I will also ask him and inform him of marks Post.Raineer? Weather permitting of course,as we had our first snow here the night b4 thanksgiving.Larry Lackee, You still out there?
alvis
USA - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 06:41:37 (MST)

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I'm Thankful for all of you this day of Thanksgiving. God Bless the troops that are preserveing our freedom this very day somewhere in the world, far away from home. You all know what that feels like. Next to last weekend for the Pop-A-Top Bar and Grill. It's been an humbleing , learning expirence for me. Soon to come tho is the "Pop-A-Top Museum for All Veterans". GENTLY...use some of the money I sent you for the Christmas fund for a donation , and send me some of the magnetic ribbons please. Thanks.......... I have so much to be thankful for , but most of all, I am thankful for the Grace, Mercy, and Love, that God so freely, and abundently gives me. He has carried me when I was done, it's all been part of his plan. Praise the Lord.....A blessed Thankgiving Holiday to you all......always a brother,
Mark
USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 21:32:29 (MST)

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Flight - today is my 37th anniversary of the day I arrived back in the States from VietNam AND was discharged from the Army - all in the same day! Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Jim
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 21:25:14 (MST)

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happy turkey day to all. also be careful of any spoof emails from ebay suspending your account. they are fraudulent. be careful out there till i meet you all somewhere paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby il, USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 18:41:58 (MST)

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Happy & safe Thanksgiving to all & let us remember our blessings & those who do not have it so well. Prayers to all & especially to Mark, Dee & Family at this time, with your recent loss it can be hard to find things to be thankful for, but Mark think back to the good times you had with your Dad & Cherish. Prayers to those serving overseas. I have a 17 y/o son, worries me some but we got through it. I went for the flight line but not in Nam, in AIT in Eustis they did that to me, still laughing as i saw their expressions when i came back so pissed.I, of course passed it on, We had some good times, no?I can Honestly say i never got sick in a helicopter but the closest i came was on that Typhoon convoy to Phan Rang .>>Respects to all>> Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 16:31:42 (MST)

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Liz and I would like to wish all our 129th Famliy a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving. 39 years ago I spent this day pulling guard duty at the Special Forces camp at Dong Ba Thin. Time is flying by. Let us pray this day for the safe return of our Soldiers and to those Brothers and Sisters whom gave their all. Alex
Alex
Collierville, TN USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 07:50:42 (MST)

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Happy Thanksgiving to all that have served, with Honor and Pride, God Bless
Rick
USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 15:47:06 (MST)

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Hey Newbie, I've got more time pissing under a tail boom than you have in the Army!! ...If I had THAT LONG to go, I'd just shoot myself, and get it over with!!! Alvis, don't forget trickey dicks message, peace with honor......Hope all have a happy Thanksgiving Day, a good day to reflect on all who've passed before us, and what good they brought to us.
Kim
USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 15:21:11 (MST)

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Finally.....I have heard from Cups. There wasn't a message, and that's probably due to the lack of electricity in Haiti, but I read it as, "I'm alive." . His email is JimAntilleanM@netscape.net I've asked for his mailing address so we can send him some mail...I'll keep you posted. So we have somethimngh more to be thankful for: Cups is OK. With a smile-Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 10:16:46 (MST)

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Susan and I would like to wish all a happy and safe holiday.To 6thise I have met,It has been an honor.May all of you enjoy your families without strife tommorow,and may thanksgiving find all of you in good health....I am off to work,clear right.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 09:33:21 (MST)

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Dont forget the funnest line of all..at least for the NVA...there are peace talks going on in Paris.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 06:48:14 (MST)

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matt chasey hi mate,hope you read this, have qestion for you about one of our pics. there is a pic in group 6, the third pic down showning three apc's and someone standing next to ammo do you know who that is? when where you with the 129th. donnie
donnie r. purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
linwood, nc USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 06:22:33 (MST)

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A skyhook
Larry Kwiatkowski
Simi Valley, ca USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 00:46:00 (MST)

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12 in inside micromator, left handed pipe wrench, 3 foot snorkel tube
French
sav, - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 00:27:59 (MST)

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Some of the old lines for the FNG's...get a bucket of propwash.....we need twenty feet of flight line.....any others???
Kim
USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 18:32:06 (MST)

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I dont know how long a coackroach can live without its head,but speaking of cockroaches..I took a picture of one in vietnam that was so big( the cockroach)...the picture weighed 5 pounds. I remember the typhoon that hit in 71.the wind blew so hard and it streached the telephone lines so far,that to call the orderly room from the flight shack was long distance. It was so hot after that storm,on the flight line I saw a cat chasing a rat and they were both walking.My hootch maid was so ugly,your watch would run backward if you got close to her.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 17:14:56 (MST)

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Is it true that a cockroach can live for a month after it's had it's head cut off???? Maybe THAT'S the penchant for beheadings over there???
Kim
USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 16:27:10 (MST)

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Thanks to all that have sent cards, flowers and what not to our family for our loss of my farther. All means so much to us. Mostly what means the most is the fact that you are out there..........God Bless,
Mark
USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 11:49:36 (MST)

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HELLO ALL. THIS IS WHAT WHEN ON AT THE HOSEPITAL > OH CAME BACK FROM THE HOSEPITAL IN SAME PAIN I I ASKED THE DR TO WHENT IN WITH THEY DID TAKE OUT A STONE OUT BETWEEN MY LIVER AND PAINCREASE BUT I TOLD THE DR SHE WOULD NOT LISTEN, I ASKED THE DR TO DO MORE TESTS SHE SAID NO. SO WHEN I GOT OUT WENT TO MY OWN DR HAD MY FAMILY DR DO BLOOD WORK DONE ALL CAME BACK ABNORMAL SAID SOMETHING WRONG WRONG WITH MY PAINCREASE SO I SEE MY STOMACH DR TOMORROW I BEEN IN THE SAME PAIN SINCE I LEFT THE HOSPITAL OH WELL GALE SORRY TO HEAR THAT DEBBIE GOT LAID OFF. WANT TO SAY HI TO ALL AND THANK EVERYONE WHO CALLED I KMOW I GAVE ALEX THE WRONG # BUT I GUESS THEPAIN OUT WIEGED MY THINKING WELL IAM GOING TO GO I SEE THE DR TOMORROW ABOUT THE PAINTCREASE TOMORROW. IAM TO HAVE A CAMERA DOWN GO DOWN THE STOMACH ON THE 10th OF DEC NOT SURE IF HE CAN SEE THE PAINCREAS FROM THERE I SEE TOMORROW A BROTHER ALWAYS OH I WENT TO MY VA DR THE FRIDAY BEFORE BEFORE I WENT TO THE ER HE WOULD NOT TALK TO ME ABOUT IT CAUSE I SEEN A OUT SIDE DR. I SAID THEN WHY DID YOU ASK FOR MY RECORDS ALL I WANTED WAS A SECON OPION FROM HIM HE POINTED HIS PENCIAL AT ME AN AS HE SAI EACG WORD THE PENCIAL MOVED AT ME, HE SAID ASKE YOUR DR THE ?? U ARE SAKING ME. WELLL THAT WAS IT I WENT OFF, TOLD HIM YOU ARE P ME OFF AND MAKINING ME ANGRY. HE SAID I NEED TO SEE MY SHRINK BUT HE USED THE BIG WORD, ALS THE NURSE WROTE UP THAT I HAD A FUNGUS ON MY TOES HE DIDN'T EVEN LOOK AT IT I ALSO ASKED HIM IF HE COULD CHECK ON A TEST THAT THE VA WAS TO MAKE FOR A ROTER ROOTER THAT THERE UROLIGIST HAD MADE HES SAID NO. SO THAT IS HOW COME I DIDN'T GO TO THE VA HOSPITAL ON THAT MONDAY WAS I WRONG JUST ASKING, BUT MUT THE MAN I SEE FROM THE VET CENTER CALLED EVERY DAY WHILE I WAS AT THE HOSPILAT , I TOLD HIM WHAT HAPPEN AT THE VA HE SAID NOT TO WORRIY WE TAKE CARE OG HIM WHEN HE SEES ME ON THE 3RD OF DEC WHAT A MESS SORRY SO LONG JUST LETTING YOU KNOW A BROTHER ALWAYS LOVE YOU ALL RAY
RAY
MD USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 10:36:22 (MST)

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The Christmas fund is only alittle over $200.00. C.B. I sent your two checks back because I wasn't sure what to do with them at this point. Let's all remember to be thankful for "something" on Thursday. Iam: even though the air I breath is full of polution, I am able to breath on my own; even though the food I eat carries pesticides into my body, I am able to select what I want to eat, when, and able to feed myself; even though the energy companies rip me off for heat and electricity, I have a roof over my head; even though I toil day after day after day and hate working for a paycheck, I have a job; even though my 88 volvo won't take me on long trips, it does take me on the short ones, safely; and even though life gets me down once in awhile, I'm smart enough to know that it's only once in a while and very normal. Amen. Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 10:33:55 (MST)

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Mark sorry as I can be about your father. He had a long time to teach some lessons in life you will remember and profit from. Through our families life’s we experience the love and pain, examples that shape us. Take what is needed to make your life better and try to forget the other. “And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.”(the Beatles Abbey road 1969)Stay strong. we have your 6. Frenchie
Bill French 68-69 <Frenchie745@(RemoveThis).comcast.net>
Savannah, Ga USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 00:36:57 (MST)

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Mark and Dee - please know how very much you are in our thoughts and prayers. Jamie and Ron DeBates
Jamie DeBates <rebateatcablemt.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 20:01:06 (MST)

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now Kim, you know you cant nuke them,cockroaches are rumored to be able to live thru it.
alvis
USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 19:33:24 (MST)

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Another take on responsibility for the Marine's debacle. Kick someone's ass in government for getting them in there in the first place!!!! If the first group of Marines had just blasted them all, there wouldn't have been a reason for the second group to kill them after the first group took their weapons and patched them up! War is still a nasty business. Is anyone any less dead because he's been decapitated,or,had his head blown off?? If our attitude is just kill em all, they're a bunch of sub human scumbags, why not just pull our troops out and nuke them??? Maybe a few neutron bombs ,after all, we need the oil....a few more truism's. There's nothing more useless than the altitude above you, the runway behind you, or the fuel left behind!
Kim
USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 18:16:18 (MST)

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Snapper, congrats on your retirement, now both of us are gone. Thanks for all the years you have given to the vets. You & I know what it can be like & we can still be a resource.enjoy. smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 10:12:59 (MST)

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For Pilots and others: Subject: Flying The only three things a wingman should ever say are: 1. Two's up. 2. Lead, you're on fire. 3. I'll take the fat chick. ...and in a multi-place aircraft, there are only three things the copilot should ever say: 1. Nice landing, Sir. 2. I'll buy the first round. 3. I'll take the fat chick. As a new copilot on United Airlines, I was told to say these three things, and otherwise keep my mouth shut and not touch anything: 1. Clear on the right. 2. Outer (marker) on the double (indicator) 3. I'll eat the chicken. (Crew meals consisted of one steak and one chicken to avoid possible food poisoning of the cockpit crew). About Pilots 1. As an aviator in flight you can do anything you want... As long as it's right... And we'll let you know if it's right after you get down. 2. You can't fly forever without ge! tting killed. 3. As a pilot only two bad things can happen to you and one of them will: a. One day you will walk out to the aircraft knowing that it is your last flight in a airplane.. b. One day you will walk out to the airplane not knowing that it is your last flight in a airplane.. 4. Any flight over water in a single engine airplane will absolutely guarantee abnormal engine noises and vibrations. 5. There are Rules and there are Laws. The rules are made by men who think that they know better how to fly your airplane than you. The Laws (of Physics) were made by the Great One. You can, and sometimes should, suspend the Rules but you can never suspend the Laws. 6. More about Rules: a. The rules are a good place to hide if you don't have a better idea and the talent to execute it. b. If you deviate from a rule, it must be a flawless performance. (e.g., If you fly under a bridge, don't hit the bridge.) 7.! The pilot is the highest form of life on earth. 8. The ideal pilot is the perfect blend of discipline and aggressiveness. 9. About check rides: a. The only real objective of a check ride is to complete it and get the bastard out of your airplane. b. It has never occurred to any flight examiner that the examinee couldn't care less what the examiner's opinion of his flying ability really is. 10. The medical profession is the natural enemy of the aviation profession. 11. The job of the Wing Commander is to worry incessantly that his career depends solely on the abilities of his aviators to fly their airplanes without mishap and that their only minuscule contribution to the effort is to bet their lives on it. 12. Ever notice that the only experts who decree that the age of the pilot is over are people who have never flown anything? Also, in spite of the intensity of their feelings that the pilot's day is over I know of no such expert who has volunteered to be a passenger in a non-! piloted aircraft. 13. It is absolutely imperative that the pilot be unpredictable. Rebelliousness is very predictable. In the end, conforming almost all the time is the best way to be unpredictable. 14. He who demands everything that his aircraft can give him is a pilot; he that demands one iota more is a fool. 15. If you're gonna fly low, do not fly slow! ASW pilots know this only too well. 16. It is solely the pilot's responsibility to never let any other thing touch his aircraft. 17. If you can learn how to fly as a Lt. and not forget how to fly by the time you're a Lt.Col you will have lived a happy life. 18. About night flying: a. Remember that the airplane doesn't know that it's dark; b. On a clear, moonless night, never fly between the tanker's lights; c. There are certain aircraft sounds that can only be heard at night; d. If you're going to night fly, it might as well be in the weather so you can double count your exposure to both hazards; e. Night formatio n is really an endless series of near misses in equilibrium with each other; f. You would have to pay a lot of money at a lot of amusement parks and perhaps add a few drugs, to get the same blend of psychedelic sensations as a single engine night weather flight. 19. One of the most important skills that a pilot must develop is the skill to ignore those things that were designed by non-pilots to get the pilot's attention. 20. At the end of the day, the controllers, ops supervisors, maintenance guys, weather guessers, and birds; they're all trying to kill you and your job is to not let them! 21. The concept of "controlling" airspace with radar is just a form of FAA sarcasm directed at pilots to see if they're gullible enough to swallow it. Or to put it another way, when's the last time the FAA ever shot anyone down? 22. Remember that the radio is only an electronic suggestion box for the pilot. Sometimes the only! way to clear up a problem is to turn it off. 23. It is a tacit, yet profound admission of the pre-eminence of flying in the hierarchy of the human spirit, that those who seek to control aviators via threats always threaten to take one's wings and not one's life. 24. Remember when flying low and inverted that the rudder still works the same old way but hopefully your IP never taught you, "pull stick back, plane go up". 25. Mastering the prohibited maneuvers in the Natops Manual is one of the best forms of aviation life insurance you can get. 26. A tactic done twice is a procedure. (Refer to unpredictability discussion above) 27. The aircraft G-limits are only there in case there is another flight by that particular airplane. If subsequent flights do not appear likely, there are no G-limits. 28. One of the beautiful things about a single piloted aircraft is the quality of the social experience. 29.! If a mother has the slightest suspicion that her infant might grow up to be a pilot, she had better teach him to put things back where he got them. 30. The ultimate responsibility of the pilot is to fulfill the dreams of the countless millions of earthbound ancestors who could only stare skyward and wish.
Larry Kwiatkowski
Simi Valley, CA USA - Sunday, November 21, 2004 at 16:50:29 (MST)

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Alvis, the government ought to have it's butt kicked for allowing cameras there to begin with. They don't need to be on the front lines with these guys......period!!! That really p***** me off. Jeff, good work and I hope you enjoy it. Welcome to the "life of leisure". Unfortunately my wife has also joined the life of leisure...........lost her job along with 69 other people last week. "Four more years", ETC. ;o) Gale
Gale
USA - Sunday, November 21, 2004 at 15:03:08 (MST)

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Mark and Dee, Very sorry to hear about your father. Our prayers to you and family. While I'm here I would add that the Army ship was probably named after a WO that was a boat type. Most Army floating vessels are commanded by Warrants. I lived next door to one when I was stationed with 68th Med in Hawaii. Also while I'm here I would like to announce my retirement from the VA. 12 more working days! I will next be employed by the "Honey Do List" company.
jeff sauers
USA - Sunday, November 21, 2004 at 08:41:55 (MST)

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It didnt help with Lt. Calley,I doubt if it will with him.The newsman should have his butt kicked for sending in that film.
alvis
USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 17:19:35 (MST)

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Here is a link to a website that has a petition going in SUPPORT of that Marine who wasted that %$$#%%&%&# terrorist. http://www.petitiononline.com/as123/petition.html
Larry Kwiatkowski
Simi Valley, CA USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 16:06:10 (MST)

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Mark, just got home from NY and read about your dad, I lit a candle and said a prayer for him and your family, here for you, and a big slow hand salute
lou rags
Dover , De USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 00:47:33 (MST)

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sorry to read about your dad, my prayers are with you and your family.take pride in that you an your dad where closer than you've ever been before.in the last few weeks until his passing, and i tkink it made it easier for your dad to make his piece with the lord, you did good brother.
wink
lake wales, fl USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 23:37:22 (MST)

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Mark I haven't read for a couple of days sorry to hear you lost your Dad.You can bet he is with his pard's and rasin heaven.A brother george
G Marshall
USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 17:06:27 (MST)

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Greg, I did a google search on Army ships and the only thing I could find was about two UH-60s landing on the USAV Joint Venture which is stationed in Hawaii. Hope that helps Rainer
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 13:32:36 (MST)

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I just read about our soliders in Iraq pulling a fast one, and it worked wonderfuly.They broadcast (from the Mosques) over loud speakers in Faujua that medical help and food were available. The citizens lined up to recieved much needed help,which the american soliders proceded to give.Smile, 1 hitch tho, they gave the men our police test that test for gun powder residue on the hands. they detained 47 folks.from msn news.
alvis
USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 03:27:56 (MST)

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Hi Donnie. I met Mike (stretch) when he came to the guns. He was my gunner for a while, in fact, he was with me on my last mission with the cobra's. We were at Pleiku and got called for a mission to Ia Drang, and our ship hooked a piece of psp on takeoff, went through all kinds of contortions, and landed hard! I got a kick out of watching him get his bearings as a gunner. I have a lot of fond memories of him. We got ASAP'ed one day, and as we took off, he pointed to the mini gun on his side, and asked me what we were going to do because he forgot to pull the cover off it! I made him crawl out on the pylon and pull it off, and he lost it in the wind!!! Lucky I didn't lose him with it!!! We stayed in touch for quite a while after I left, until he went to Germany. His mom called and told me what happened...sad....were you with him when all hell broke loose in early 72? He told me about the Korean's firing up a bunch of Arvn's in the An Khe pass, they were running away from the NVA, I think.....Ray, welcome home!!!
Kim
Livermore, Me USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 17:58:09 (MST)

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hi kim hope im talking to the right kim (la voie) mike mckinney was a good friend. mike was my door gunner until he got his aircraft. after vietnam he would drop by and see me on his way home from ft bragg and back to bragg. could not beleive when his father called and told me about mike. i think about him often, do you know if he went to flight school. hope you and yours have a very happy holliday and god bless all you guys. donnie & jean purvis
donnie purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
linwood, nc USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 17:01:31 (MST)

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hi kim hope im talking to the right kim (la voie) mike mckinney was a good friend. mike was my door gunner until he got his aircraft. after vietnam he would drop by and see me on his way home from ft bragg and back to bragg. could not beleive when him father called me and told me about mike. i think about him often, do you know if he went to flight school. hope you and yours have a very happy holliday and god bless all you guys. donnie & jean purvis
donnie purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
linwood, nc USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 17:00:19 (MST)

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welcome back home Ray.
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 16:19:08 (MST)

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The Commo about who places were named after got me thinking of a huge ship I've seen at the port of Kawaihae here on the Big Island. It looked like a landing craft of some sort with the whole front dropping down to unload tanks, trucks etc.(LST?) It was a U.S. Army ship and named after a Warrant Officer. I was told it is the only ship currently in the ARMY and I'm sorry to say I don't remember who it was named after. I'm trying to find out more, but without success. Can anyone here come up with more information? Was it named after a Nam pilot? Thanks, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 14:08:35 (MST)

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Sorry for your loss Mark and Dee. Remember the good times and special moments. Aloha Nui Loa, Greg
Animal
Puna, HI USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 13:43:46 (MST)

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Mark & Family, i have been gone for a bit seeing my family in Montana so i havn't been in here. I am sorry for the loss of your Dad & as was said, he will join my Dad who went to Fiddlers green 11 years ago. God bless your family who have given up so much for this Country. Slow Hand Salute Mr. Carl Jackson USMC.>>>> with utmost respscts>>> James B Westwang Jr. Sp/5 US army>> 129th AHC 71-72
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 11:21:47 (MST)

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MARK. I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LOST OF YOUR DAD. THE WORDS COME HARD TO SAY BUT HE IS IN A PLACE FREE OF HIS PAIN AND MAY HE BE WITH THE LORD AND BE BY HIS SIDE AND AT PEACE, TAKE CARE MY BROTHER AND GOD BLESSYOU AND YOU AND YOUR FAMILY RAY
RAY
MD USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 10:16:34 (MST)

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Ray, good to see that your are feeling better. So it was probably just that stone bothering you. You'll be back to your old walking routine in no time. Love ya Brother.
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 07:46:38 (MST)

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I am sorry for the loss of your father. Also I will do a slow hand salute to Carl Jackson. We will see him in Fiddlers Green. Be careful out there Flight
Rick England
USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 06:53:54 (MST)

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HELLO ALL WELLO IAM HOME AS KRISS SAID. I LOVE TO THANK JIM O CC BLOOMFILD AND KAL AND ROBBIE FOR CALLING AND I MAY HAVE MISSED ONE SORRY I THINK I FEEL BETTER NOW SENDING YOU A COPY OF SOMINGTNG I SENT SOME HERE NOT SURE IT IT WILL COME OUT BUT I THINK IT COULD BE SOME TRUTHTH TO IT NOW THAT I LOOK BACK NOW MY VET CONSELER CALLED EVERYDAY TOLD HIM WHAT WAS GOING ON, HE SAID WE TALK ABOUT IT WHEN I GET HOME ....WHAT A WEEK. BUT I THINK I FEEL BETTER. IT WAS A STONE BETWEEN MY LIVER AND PANCREAS. SO THEY I GUEST THEY TOOK OUT THE SOON SOME HOW BUT I WAS STILL IN PAIN FOR A WHILE, BUT TO BE HONEST I THINK THE LAST TWO DAYS I THINK I STAYED JUST TO GET THE MORPHINE NOT SURE YET, ME AND KRIS GOT LUNCH RIGHT AFTER I GOT OUT NO PAIN LAST NIGHT ME AND GAIL WENT TO DINNER NO PAIN I HAD BREAKFAST TODAY NO PAIN, SO PERHAPS IN MY MIND I WANTED THE DRUG, TOM CALLED EVERY DAY I ASKED HIM ABOUT IT, HE SAID WE WILL TALK ABOUT IT WHEN HE SEES ME BUT GENTLY IAM STILL LOSING WEIGHT WHEN I WENT INTO THE HOSPITAL I JUST WEIGHT 155 POUNDS ANOTHER DROP, THE DR SAID NOTHING WHEN I LEFT SHE MADE ME ANGRY TOLD ME TO SEE OTHER DRS. FOR OTHER TESTS. I SAID WHY DIDN'T YOU DO THEM WHILE I WAS JUST LYING HERE DOING NOTHING, SAID THAT'S OUT PATIENT STUFF I SAID WEE Y CAN'T IT BE DONE WHILE IAM HERE SAVE THE INS MONEY INSTEAD OF PAYING FOR A ROOM I SHE DID NOT BELIEVE I LOSE THE WEIGHT I TOLD HER I WEIGHT 155 WHEN I GOT THERE I JUST WEIGHED MY SELF I AM DOWN TO 150. SHE SAID NO U DIDN'T I CALLED HER A BI-CH AND TURNED MY BACK SAID U DON'T CARE ABOUT ANYTHING JUST THAT YOU GET SOMEONE IN HERE YOU CAM MAKE MORE MONEY ON THEN I WENT HOME MY STOMACH HURTS SOME NOW BUT I THINK I ATE TO MUCH LOL OH WELL TIME WILL TELL WELL THATS WHAT HAPPEN SO NOT SURE I THOUGHT BUT I THOUGHT I SHARE WITH MT BROTHERS AND SISTERS LOVE YA ALL BUT I KNOW I BE OK LOVE YA ALL AND THANK YOU KRISS FOR POSTING AND THANK YOU GAIL FOR E MAILING SOME CAUSE YOU DID'T KNOW HOW TO GET IN THE LOG BUT THAT WILL CAHANGE A BROTHER ALWAYS RAY
RAY <STILWATING@AOL.COM>
MD USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 06:52:31 (MST)

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Hey all! Ray is home!!!!!! thank you for all your prayers and concern. talk to you all later kris
kris <clue4blue@hotmail.comk>
baltimore, md USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 15:28:49 (MST)

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Mark, now there's two in that helicopter that hovers over us. My hand-on your heart. Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 15:22:02 (MST)

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Dear Mark..Dee and Family.... We are so sorry about the loss of your Father...Over the years of many emails I think that I have a bit of insight into his feelings for You....He was from a generation that felt it wrong to show affection..or be considered weak...however..there is no doubt in my mind that he Loved you more than you could ever imagine...Your last hours with Your Father were very special...Hold onto the good memories and remember that God brought you two back together again ..even tho it was sometimes not the manner you wished...The thing is you were blessed with a small amount of time with him...Our Hearts go out to You and all your Family...I hope now Your Mom will soon be able to smile once again... Always a Sister... Hugs to all.. Gina
Vinny and Gina <lrm@gis.net>
R.I. USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 13:01:25 (MST)

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Family...Thanks one and all to all the words of comfort. I am confident in my heart that in a blink of an eye Pop was cradled in God's arms..Send cards to Hilda Jackson 410 West Walnut St. Coldwater, Ohio 45828.....or....you can send them to my house at the address that Robbie posted. I'll get them to Mom. Thanks all......always a brother, and a son.............
Mark
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 10:44:51 (MST)

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thanks robbie
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 10:27:14 (MST)

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You and your family our in my thoughts and prayers. Larry and Carl are together now and are catching up with each other.
Tom Pedersen <Safetysharkataol.com>
Lawrenceville, ga USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 10:07:17 (MST)

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For those that have been asking, Mark's address is 816 East Vine Street Coldwater, Oh 45828..
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 10:02:46 (MST)

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Mark I am sorry to hear about your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Carl Rest In Peace
Roger L Cress <ncrcr1945@yahoo.com>
Sherrill Ford, NC USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 08:29:50 (MST)

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the yellow pages in MSN state the phone number of pop a top is 419-678-3445, cant find Mark Jackson in the white pages in same directory
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 08:12:35 (MST)

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thanks gale.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 08:01:00 (MST)

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Alvis & flight, all I have is the "Pop A Top" address: Mark & Dee Jackson 107 S. 2nd St Coldwater, Oh 45828
Gale
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 06:35:01 (MST)

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Mark,flight,I need an address to send a card.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 04:41:06 (MST)

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Mark, I am so sorry to hear about your father. Please remember we are here for you. Take care of yourself and your family. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Katharine
USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 04:25:51 (MST)

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We are very sorry to hear about your dad. I personally want you to know that I was in a similar situation when my dad passed away 2 years ago. It has been a long 2 years for me but never did I ever doubt that I did exactly what his wishes were. In time the pain will lesson and at times you may feel guilty but you will always know in your heart that you have done what his wishes were and that will help you through these tough times ahead. Slow hand salute to your dad. Kathy--Ken Blevins
Ken and Kathy Blevins
South Point, OH USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 03:09:00 (MST)

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Prayers for your father brother Mark. The Wells Family.
Wells
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 21:45:38 (MST)

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Mark you and yours are in our prayers. I am glad I had a chance to meet your Dad when Peg and I came down. Ted and Peg
Gus
Grand Rapids, MN USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 20:23:13 (MST)

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MARK, I am sorry to hear about your Dad. I wish you and your family peace and comfort in this time of great sadness.
Don Miller
Valley Farms, AZ USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 19:37:42 (MST)

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Sorry for your loss Mark. God be with you and yours. Take care Brother.
Rick
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 18:42:10 (MST)

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Slow Hand Salute for Carl Jackson!! Mark and Family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Your 129th Family is here for you all. Kris I'm glad you posted the right phone number. Ray called me and gave me that pnone number. Sorry flight. Some times gets his numbers crossed. But, was hoping he would get some help. Alex & Liz
Alex
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 18:25:44 (MST)

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Mark,Susan and I extend our sincere condolences to you and yours.Now its time to take care of Mom,in this most sad of times.I,too,rend a slow ,respectful hand salute to Carl Jackson,USMC,veteran and proud father of two veterans.I shall remember him as I saw him at the gold star mothers tribute given to your mom.Proud,strong,humble and carved by time and hard work.pehaps he will join my father in waiting for us upon fiddlers green.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 18:22:26 (MST)

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Slow hand salute to Carl Jackson. Mark I'm real sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family. To those thinking about calling Ray, he just called me back and told me that they are making him leave the hospital although he keeps telling them he still has the same pain in his stomach as when he came in. He's quite upset about it understandibly, but is leaving so he wanted me to tell everyone not to call him at that number that was left here.....Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 18:01:24 (MST)

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My condolences Mark, to you , your family, your mom....I think it's safe to say that we're all here for you, if there's anything you need.
Kim
Livermore , Me USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 17:43:27 (MST)

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Slow hand salute for Carl Jackson, I am praying for your family.
J.W. Wilson
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 17:30:49 (MST)

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Slow hand salute goes out to Carl Jackson USMC. Mark, you and your family are in our prayers.....Gale & Debbie
Gale
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 16:57:20 (MST)

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PRAYERS for you and your family,MARK.....Sent with much LOVE>
Keith 72-73
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 16:39:06 (MST)

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Slow Hand Salute to Carl A. Jackson,USMC.......I`m so sorry from the bottom of my heart, Mark.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 16:36:36 (MST)

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Slow Hand Salute.... May he rest in peace. The family is in our prayers..... Mark,Take care .....
C.P. & Jean
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 16:08:33 (MST)

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Mark....so sorry to hear that. Praying for your family.
Melody Pershall <m e l o d y 1 1 8 1 @ y a h o o . c o m>
Amarillo, TX USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 15:53:53 (MST)

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Thanks for the recent comments about my buddy Jon. He was a bit older than me and had been through a lot of shit but wouldn't talk about it to anyone. That's why I got on the Cav unit flight log, but i never heard from anyone. Mark, I hope your Father is right about all the Yes' he said also. Fred A. I can't remember anything about where things were or exactly which direction things were. I do remember the Jap sub and have a picture of it. As for Melody's abbreviation for the Wh Veh Mach Hlpr... I would think Hlpr would be helper..But I think we all know how many mistakes the company clerks made when typing things up. Who knows what it really means. Gotta go call my Gunner Ray... Thanks Kris for the updated number.
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 15:52:53 (MST)

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Slow Hand salute for Carl A. Jackson. My Pop. Went home to be with the Head Machanic this afternoon.
Mark
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 15:45:57 (MST)

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Jim, I know I have an email from you but cant read it as yet. My hot mail-e mail is screwing up.MARK,prayers are with you and your family,you Dad is one tough guy,he will pull thrugh this one.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 15:39:47 (MST)

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76th engineer Company,maintainace....647th Quartermaster Company (petroleum operations)...48th Avation company,10th combat Avation Birgade( wasnt this the 10th combat group?)..and you know 129th assalt helicopter company,1st avation birgade...wh veh mach hlpr is( I think) wheeled vehical machanic,(EITHER) heliport or helicopter. melody. most helicopters had landing wheels,slicks ,charlies,mikes and cobras didnt.24 months is time spent in overseas duty,or a two year enlistment,it should say ,but sounds like he did two tours.This info may not be correct and I do invite comments and corrections please.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 10:47:01 (MST)

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Melody, the 48th was in Ninh Hoa,just before I got there.Its located between Nha Trang and Tuy Hoa, at the road junction off hwy 1 where the road jucntions turns inland going up toward pleiku. The Helivets have a current calender showing a 48th helicopter on a mission,spraying agent orange.They saw alot of action.I believe they supported the White horse div. of the Korean army just before the 48th stood down in 71.There is a book out "there" called "chicken hawk",that was written by a pilot who served with the cav,then finished with the 48th.You proably can find it at the library.he flew in the places many of the 129th did,talks alot about happy valley and the An kae pass and mostly the upper highlands,2 corps.(actually he has 2 books out about it).Also ,Ninh Hoa is just off the coast,near a mountian called (the only thing i ever heard it called ), Big Charley.ROK artty used to fire on it quite regulary from just over the americans housing.It was a very small american detatchment there,being only one helicopter unit and its support groups.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 10:32:07 (MST)

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Judith, got the magnet. My grnadpa loved it! Thanks! Finally got my uncles records. Not sure how to read it but it does list his units. His first one that he was in Vietnam with seems to be the 76th Engr Co Maint. Then there is a 647th QM Co(Petrl op)then 48th Avn Co 10thCBt Avn Bn and last was the 129th. Not sure what to make of it all. A few of the pages are very confusing to me. I do have a question. by the 48th Avn Co it has the conduct and it says Unk...does that mean unknown? Also what is a "Wh Veh Mach Hlpr" ???? Lots of questions and some new places for me to start! All together he served 24 months over there that I can tell.
Melody Pershall <m e l o d y 1 1 8 1 @ y a h o o . c o m>
Amarillo, TX USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 10:11:59 (MST)

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Just a quick note: Robbie, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. I have not had a minute to post nor read the posts, I'm probably two weeks behind. Ray told me about your friend...again, I'm very sorry. Let me know if you need a hug....I'll be right over. Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 08:50:24 (MST)

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hi all! the right number is 410.464.5158. they are doing blood work on his pancreas today. should know something soon. take care and god bless
kris <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
balt, md USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 08:07:10 (MST)

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I like that Fred. We have a poetry reading at the reunion, when you come to the reunion would you read it? Thats a good one.***** Mark I would like to call Ray Iam going to try that number.******Gale I got to Lane Jan 17 68 and the towers were there.*****Paul good to hear from you. Sharon Lane was a nurse at Chu Lai is that right?***Joe, a frriend of mind that was in the 25 infantry at cu chi was near that ammo bunker when it went off an recieve wounds from it. afterwards he found just the trigger guard with serial # on otherwise he would have to buy another. Joe how are you doing?*****Flight I still have pins money goes to the fund.bc me with and address if you want some. bd431%mindspring .com******Be careful out there
Sassy Rick England
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 07:53:04 (MST)

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I like that Fred. We have a poetry reading at the reunion, when you come to the reunion would you read it? Thats a good one.***** Mark I would like to call Ray Iam going to try that number.******Gale I got to Lane Jan 17 68 and the towers were there.*****Paul good to hear from you. Sharon Lane was a nurse at Chu Lai is that right?***Joe, a frriend of mind that was in the 25 infantry at cu chi was near that ammo bunker when it went off an recieve wounds from it. afterwards he found just the trigger guard with serial # on otherwise he would have to buy another. Joe how are you doing?*****Flight I still have pins money goes to the fund.bc me with and address if you want some. bd431%mindspring .com******Be careful out there
Sassy Rick England
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 07:52:33 (MST)

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I AM ARMY AVIATION: My Olive green chest has donned a host of great names:Kelly, Rosbeck, Dempsey, Holloway and a multitude of others that have etched my worn and weary smile on history`s mirror. From a humble beginning, I have climbed to the summit. I have seen my family mature in the hottest of cold wars and have mixed my blood, sweat and tears with the brackish paddies of Nam Can and the crytal blue of Dong Ha. Thus,I have paid the price of involvement, earn my badge of courage and come of age. On my durable wing I have leisurely soared through the thin humid skies over Ia Drang and my rotor wash has uncovered" Charlie" in the mangroves of Ca Mau. From Soc Trang, Blackhorse,and LANE, I have flown and have sent my tracers slicing through the Asian dusk and dawn....stabbing at the elusive shadows that menace freedom. My rockets have given relief to mt brothers-in-arms and brought smoke, flames and death to our enemies. With keen vision and through my ingenuity I have found my enemy....the tyrant, the oppressor, who would deny his fellow man`s rights.I have guided the awesome terror of my cousins` shells to fix the fleeting, faceless guerilla. On my back the Queen of Battle showed the fury of her long rifle. Together, through swamp and jungle, we have putsued, engaged and won. The battle for democracy will go on until free men everywhere have won the age old conflict with forces of oppression, the shadows of darkness, the face of hate. Whether at home or on foreign shores, I will be there....keeping my faith in God and Country....BECAUSE...........I AM ARMY AVIATION This was written in 1970 by Major Larry E. Joyce, Infantry, U.S. Army.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 06:28:51 (MST)

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Fred A., you are right Fred, I was at Phu Hiep. Vung Ro was "across the hill", when they would get hit, you could see the flares from Phu Hiep. But Lane AAF is very famous, I have a poem that mentions Lane.
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 06:12:09 (MST)

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Hey Mark, Thanks for the update on your dad. Pray everything goes well. Will keep your family in thought and prayer. God Bless
Rick
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 21:45:38 (MST)

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correct me if I am wrong. Isnt vung ro pass the pass just south of tuy hoa,between tuy hoa and nha trang? Its the one that has the jap ship sank off shore during ww2.I also believe its the pass where my 2 room mates where killed.
alvis
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 20:40:39 (MST)

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ALEX.....That number, I called and it and it says it is not in service. Is it correct????
Mark
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 19:45:03 (MST)

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Flight the number for the hospital for Ray is 410-646-5158 and he is in room 427B. A call from some of you might just cheer him up. I know he would appreciate hearing from you. Alex
Alex Fernwalt
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 19:22:36 (MST)

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Pop Update........Sorry I havnt updated you guys in a week, but been doing lots of runnin' back and forth to the hospital seeing Pop......last week he was moved to St Ritas in Lima. His condition got worse as time went on. He went from a visit to the hodpital for broken ribs to Alcohol withdrawl, to Kidney problems , to Liver problems , to lung problems to being put on a ventilator to being taken off the vent and then back on because he was failing, , and now he seems to be coming out of it all....BUT.....tomorrow they are going to wheen him off the vent again to see it he can breath on his own. Up until today I was faced with the decision as to whether or not to have him put on a machine to stay alive because Pop was not really around mentally. But today he seemed to be coming around. So I finally got him to answer some questions. I ask if he was ready to have the vent taken off? He shook his head yes. I ask him if he wanted it put back in if he failed? He shook his head no. I ask him if he wanted a Trake put in and explained that probably his life would be confined to a bed? He shook his head no. I ask him if he didnt have anything done that and that if he was not able to breath on his own he would probably die. He shook his head yes. I ask if he was ready to die? He shook his head yes. I ask if he was right with Gog? he shook his head yes. I said, " Pop, your gonna breathg on your own and mnake it through this aint ya?" He shook his head yes!!!!!!....if anybody can do it, Pop can!!!!!! I am confident that he has enough of his senses about him now that he knew what he was saying today........tomorrow will come and go.....with, or with out Pop.......I pray it be with him.............he has been good in the morning, worse at noon, better in the evening and worse in the morning. This has gone on for several days....Doctors give hope one hour and gloom the next. Have been on a roller caoster ride for a week. Not knowing how I will find Pop when I get there every morning. Grand , belated Veterans day. Wasnt the best for me, but not even close to all of your memories. Always you all, I will be grateful for your service to our country, God Bless you all and thanks........
Mark
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 19:00:12 (MST)

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Good to see all the commo in here....Good to see you GUS and DONNIE........Awesome recounts of Hot LZ's Kim and Alvis. Kris, thanks for all the update on your pop, our brother, Ray. Tell him we all are praying for him and tell Gail we are thinking of her also....ROBBIE...... so sorry to hear about your Manhatten friend.
Mark
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 18:42:46 (MST)

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This info is in our 1966 history, month of May in the HISTORY section. Aquired from the National Archives Wash.D.C.;......"One of the Nha Trang slicks was hit by a sniper on the 15th during a road recon through Vung Ro Bay and a passenger, L/Col Ernest Lane, 39th Engineer Battalion was fatally wounded in the stomach. The Post-at Vung Ro subsequently was named in his honor. Our Cobras were active again, destroying 70 buildings. A night medical evacuation was also made.".......is this why LANE weas named LANE?
Mark
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 18:39:37 (MST)

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Hello Flight.. Boy, where to start... Mark, you and Dee are in my thoughts and prayers as well as are Ray and Gail. Thanks to Kris for the updates on your dad. Jamie, it is good to see your post and HI to Ron. Ted Gustafson, it has been a while and is good to see you are doing well. I hope to be seeing you in San Antonio in June!!.. By the way Gus, do you have any antennas up for 75 or 40 Meters? We could set up a sched..?? Robbie, sorry to see that about your friends passing. I hope you are having some success with your job hunting. Jim Westwang, I see your posts and it look as though you are doing well, I hope you have gotten your health problems straightened out as it seems like all of us are having problems kick up. I am within a month of the big 6-0 now and all in all I am happy to say that other that Arthur being with me a lot that things are pretty good. I hope everyone has a Great Thanksgiving and THINK SAN ANTONIO!! Only 7 months off now. Alex, how is the foot coming? I haven't seen you post much about it.. Also, I didn't have to pull OD but a couple times and it seemed to me that those guard towers were there most of the time.. Take care all... C U L8r.... Kal...>>>
Kal Bergstrom 67/68 <n8auu (at) email . com>
Saint Joseph, MI USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 17:31:14 (MST)

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flight; i don't remember the site address, it was a private web site that i found when i was doing some research atschool. i do my digging at school because thier computers are faster.i hope i didn't piss anybody off it sounded ok to me but i wasn't at lane until 1970. happy to see that some body set me straight. thanks paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 11:46:25 (MST)

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hi flight i was just on the 161st site they say lane was named after a cw2 robert lane kia in 65.
donnie r. purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
Lexington, nc USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 11:09:05 (MST)

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Gale: Forgot you ets and came back a few days after me. Mine was april 13th.1968.
Alex
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 09:12:55 (MST)

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Gale: The guard towers were built between sept. and dec. 67. It was before Christmas of 67. I pulled guard duty the 1st night the tower was ready. It was the one facing the villiage. We just the bunkers up till then. Hey!! Kal you were the OD. a few times back then. Daniel Raslowsky was my partner on guard duty. Alex
Alex
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 09:09:57 (MST)

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Flight, this site will give you some info about Lane Field..... http://www.161ahc.org/161history.htm Don, that's a great site & some good pics of Lane (I can find Lane on the Terre Server map that Mark found now), but, if that was '68....where's the guard towers? I'm not sure just when they were built. I'm sure that when I got to Lane from Dong Ba Thin about July '67...they were not there and I'm pretty sure they were there during '68 Tet Offensive. Lots of cobwebs....how 'bout it Alex, Rick England, Rainer, Jim Hydinger, any input on this? I can't believe it......36 years ago yesterday, I was ETS'd. Clear, Gale
Gale 67-68
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 08:19:14 (MST)

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Read somewhere, can't remember where, that Lane was named for a helicopter pilot named Lane. Seems he may have been a Warrant Officer.
darwin schmiedt
USA - Sunday, November 14, 2004 at 18:54:24 (MST)

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Fred Skaggs, they had me taking Vioxx for my foot problem and now they have taken me off of it. Liz wants me to be checked out also. I haven't got a VA Doctor assigned to me yet, but I continue to work on it. Sounds like your illegal drugs would be better for all of us!!! HA!! Mark, I hope your Dad is doing better he remains in our thoughts and prayers as you and the rest of your family remain also. Hope everyone made it through Veteran's Day ok, it was a tough day to get through. Good health and good spirits to everyone and we are wishing everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving next week. Robbie how did the interview go? Let us hear from you. Rainer you should receive the CD this week according to the US Pony Express!!! Take care. Clear left. Alex
Alex Fernwalt
USA - Sunday, November 14, 2004 at 18:45:02 (MST)

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at this site is a nice map of Lane. Scrool down till you see Lane Army Heliport . Open the map and Click on Lane and a New window will come up and you can see a few pictures. http://search.netscape.com/ns/boomframe.jsp?query=lane+heliport+vietnam&page=1&offset=0&result_url=redir%3Fsrc%3Dwebsearch%26requestId%3D479ac018cf5cf75%26clickedItemRank%3D2%26userQuery%3Dlane%2Bheliport%2Bvietnam%26clickedItemURN%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.rjsmith.com%252Ftopo_map.html%26invocationType%3D-%26fromPage%3DNSCPToolbarNS%26amp%3BampTest%3D1&remove_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rjsmith.com%2Ftopo_map.html
Rick
USA - Sunday, November 14, 2004 at 17:46:53 (MST)

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kim i have to agree with jime westwang, c,mike models where my pick to support us. loved having you guys down low. take care have have a great thanksgiving. donnie
donnie purvis <dpurvis@us.army.mil>
lexington, nc USA - Sunday, November 14, 2004 at 17:35:55 (MST)

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Paul, where did you find the info about Lane being named after Lt Sharon Lane? The reason I ask is that reading your post peaked my interest and a website about her says she didn't die until June 1969 which would be well after it was called Lane AHP. Just curious. Bulldog 16 "Lou"
Paul Q Tenhet II <pqt2@trilobyte.net>
Tooele, UT USA - Sunday, November 14, 2004 at 16:41:36 (MST)

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hello flight. does anybody know where an son got the name of lane field. i just ran across the answer today while doing some digging. it is named after sharon lane a nurse at the 312th evac in chu lia. she was the only nurse killed as a direct result of enemy fire
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 17:59:23 (MST)

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Thanks Jamie and give Ron my best. It's good to hear from you guys. Always a brother, Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 14:17:21 (MST)

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Thanks Jamie and give Ron my best. It's good to here from you guys. Always a brother, Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 14:16:58 (MST)

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Kris, glad to get the news your Dad is on the mend! You can order the magnets directly from Gently. The money goes to the VietNam Vet Association.
Jim & Sue H
USA - Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 07:56:52 (MST)

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Love and prayers to you all. Difficult couple of days - as is the usual case with Veteran's Day. Thinking of each one of you and praying for you all. Trying my darndest to take care of the 129th-ers in my life. You are all very special. I Do Understand - more than you can imagine. Jamie
Jamie DeBates <rebateatcablemt.net>
Big Timber, MT usa - Friday, November 12, 2004 at 21:11:57 (MST)

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Flight...I got a letter today from the VA. I had been getting my Vioxx from the Durham Clinic.( co-pay was lower than my Insurance) Well I stopped that stuff about 2 or 3 months ago. But they want to run some tests? What kind of test do ya` all think it is? This is crazy, the "legal" drugs I take will screw me up, the "illegal drug" I`ve smoked never hurt me at all. Plus I sleep better!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Friday, November 12, 2004 at 18:08:28 (MST)

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Just an undate, dad had surgury(a scope) and they cleaned out all the gall stones and some junk. he is doing well,a little pain. As it looks he should be home by sunday. where do you get the vietnam magnets for the car? I would like to get some. thanks to everyone for your prayers. Kris
kris <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
baltimore, md USA - Friday, November 12, 2004 at 13:36:53 (MST)

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Thank you to all veterans this week. May peace come to you all. I have 3 veteran related magnets on my van now, and am proud to show everyone how important it is to support our vets. Take care. Sue H.
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Friday, November 12, 2004 at 08:40:35 (MST)

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yes Kim,many stations nationwide pulled "Saving Pri. Ryan"cause of the rateing.Its too graphic they seem to think.God forbid folks seeing what war does.
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 19:18:18 (MST)

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HOpe all have a good Veteran's Day. To our ill brothers, a wish for a speedy recovery....Yeah Donnie, we spent quite a bit of time sitting around after the lz's were secure. I kinda liked working on my tan!! LOL We had our share of days that started out as boring, (yeah, boring) holes in the sky, when we'd get interrupted by someone calling for cover for a dustoff, or someone seen in the open where they shouldn't have been. We spent a lot of time working with Tiger Division, south of Lane, staging out of Miami Beach. We could pretty much be assured of a call to fire up something, long after the insertion.....worked over today, when I got home and turned on the news, there was a story about a bunch of ABC affiliated that won't show Saving pvt. Ryan, because of concern over being fined because it's too graphic????
Kim
USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 18:02:05 (MST)

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Hi all thanks for all the emails and cards. The chemo is really working and they hope i only have 7 more treatments. will keep you all posted. Well the 129th/173d xmas party is comming soon and yes i will make it. Dec 4th pool party at holiday express celina, ohio (419 586 4919) ask for airborne xmas for reduced rate. snacks will be provided at pool party. BYOB 1800 dinner at pop a top, salisbury steak, pot, veg, salad, and roll all for $7.50 each tip included. cash bar. please bring gag gift 1 for male and 1 female. santa will mix them up and pass them out. Dancing to follow. hope that some will find the time because one thing i have learned from getting this cancer is spend as much time with old friend and family because you never know. for thosse that can't make it. to you and your family sue and I wish the greatest and safe holiday season. May god with with you all.
steven m spencer <spence173@earthlink.net>
Elida, oh USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 15:18:54 (MST)

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Kris, we all hope our buddy Ray is feeling better and will return home soon.
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 14:08:26 (MST)

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Always felt more comfortable with b/c model guns with us in a hot LZ as they were able to stay right with us & the Ah-1g could not slow enough & did a pass by as we went in, they circled & provided good cover but that same feeling of me staring out the CE well & seeing the power of that gunship right close was not the same. My thanks to all who flew as comrades & covered my ass, Have a good Veterans Day!!!>>>Smitty
jim westwang 71-72
sheridan, wy USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 12:48:38 (MST)

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hi all. first thank you to all the veterns on this veterns day. second. my dad will be going through more tests tomorrow. I will keep everyone posted. thanks to all and take care
kris <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
balt, md USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 07:26:56 (MST)

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yea,but kim most of your time in guns was sitting on the ground waiting for a mission. i can remember landing in locations an seeing the guns crews just sun tanning while we where inserting troop and flying resupply. thats why i preferred slicks. but i will give you this, it felt good to see you guys next to us in hot a lz. take care donnie r. purvis stallion 547
donnie r. purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
Lexington, nc USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 06:22:45 (MST)

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Veterans Day. To all the veterans of any war who reads this, you have my undying gratitude. Thank you and welcome home.
Katharine
USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 04:20:39 (MST)

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exactly, Kim. The most fun was shooting and it only got better when the guns/cobras were escorting us in firing as they went as well.Stuff blowing up,all different kinds of noise and confusion,seperating "need to know" noise from other stuff,feeding the 60 over the back of your hand,feeling that well satisfied feeling when your bullets are going just where you intended them to hit,dispite the air currents bounching the aircraft,pilots making last minute corrections,smoke from burning grasses.Your world narrows down to a tiny window,but you cant let it cause you still have to listen to the headset traffic ,almost like a split personality.I too hated sky watching during a sharp bank.I really hated being on the blind side of the aircraft when we were taking fire.Now that was frustrating
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 19:25:42 (MST)

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Alvis, the idea of sitting still in a LZ never really appealed to me! For me, the CA'S were what it was all about! Aside from dust off cover, CA's were when we got to blast away at anything and everything! The prep was the best part, leading the slicks in, rockets leaving the tubes, sparks flying all around the cabin, mini's whining, looking for anything that the pilots hadn't fired up so as to have targets for the 60, listening for the AC to call the break, knowing our trail was going to be firing under us, feeling the adrenaline rush when the break was on my side, feeling helpless when the ship broke the other way and all I could do was watch the clouds out my door...scond run, the slicks are landing, listening for any calls of taking fire, trying to locate targets for the pilots when the calls came.....it's incredible still, to think about how much could happen on a 20 second inbound run, how it could seem to last for hours, things were so defined, so deliberate. Not at first mind you, I also can remember feeling like I was always behind the curve, things were happening so fast I couldn't process the information fast enough for anything to make sense, starve the 60, get behind on deflection and never be able to put the tracers where I wanted them to go. Man, I can recall being so frustrated I wanted to cry, quit, piss my pants, jump out........felt like I had to be the worst crewchief in the Army! Probably some of the pilots felt that I was!!!!!! Oh well, I survived it, looking back, I can smile about it.... Marines and Army got a few of the asswipes, too much forewarning, too much time for the leaders to move out and set up camp somewhere else. I don't think it's over, and they'll use to opportunity to learn about U.S. tactics, and make it harder next time. sigh....
Kim
USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 17:58:28 (MST)

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Ted, good to hear that you & Peg are fine. That must be one heck of a "man cave". Seems like you've been working on it for spell. E-mail me a pic of it if you get a chance. Did you hear that Thad Czuba made it to the Indy reunion? 'Course he only lived 20 minutes away........had a nice visit tho'. We all hope that you guys can figure a way to make LZ San Antonio. Ray & Gail, you are in our prayers. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 07:55:00 (MST)

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Kris thanks for your updates on Ray. Gail emailed me that they are going to do a CT Scan and another scope of his of his stomach(ducts). They're looking for stones, but some of the tests did show abnormalities of the liver(She's unhappy with the VA, they ran liver tests and said it was fine). She needs, the whole family needs, our prayers right now. Gail is scared. Ray's address is on the "Contact page" and I'll post it later today, let's fill their home with words of love and support. Don't just send one card...send two. Our friend Ray.....Gently
Gently
USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 06:57:26 (MST)

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Evening flight. Just a note to say Peg and I are doing fine. Getting ready for another winter. Working on the "Man Cave" pole shed and doing some landscaping and dirt work. Training 3 new dogs. I watched the Movie also... I should have known better. Still trying to get my head back on track. I am starting to think I never will. Mark if you do sell the bar and can not find a place to put the blade let me know and I will come down and pick it up and keep it here untill you can find a new place for it. Sorry to hear about your Dad. I always thought mine would be around forever. Miss that old guy. Glad we had time to say what needed to be said before he was gone. Gale drop me a note some time tgus at uslink.net That goes for all of you. I know I do not post mutch but I drop by and read the mail now and then. You are always on my mine and in my prayers. Clear left Gus
Ted Gustafson
Grand Rapids, MN USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 22:09:58 (MST)

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Kim,I can remember the nights when rumors would sweep thru the unit,like grass thru a duck. The rumors would always state that we were going on a CA the next day,and the place would be hotter than maggies drawers.Seemed most men would write a letter home (just in case),mostly the company mood was sober or dubduded.We still drank our beers or smoked our joints,but there seemed to be an undercurrent,a stark face to face with our jobs,the evening before a CA.In the morning,guns were checked twice,or even three times,making sure the bolts slide easily,fresh ammo and plenty of it,perhaps an extra barrel on each ship,ears attuned to the whine of the lycoming l-13 engine as she cranked,gauges checked and rechecked,fluid levels topped off,all somewhat sliently.Then we lifted off...the dogs of war had been unleashed from their kennels,and we were mean sons of bitches,smile, or so we thought.Seems once we lifted off all pressures and doubts were left on the ground.Chicken plates worn on the chest by new guys, sat on by the old timmers.Picking up the assault teams to be inserted..get on guys, sit down,shut up,dont touch anything and DONT Chamber a Round in your rifles yet.Arriving near the LZ,word comes if its going to be hot or not.getting closer,guns up,waiting on the Ac to give the go ahead to go hot,targets already picked out,changing as we got lower and closer.Looking for signs of life..a muzzle flash or a green tracer,movement in the tree line or bush.Pulling up quickly,ac saying "get them off boys" as we helped,shoved and pushed off troops in the few seconds we had in "green time",time before we were sitting,dead duck targets for enemy gunners.All 3 to 5 seconds of it.Its amazing how fast 8 troops can be helped off a helicopter in a LZ.Sitting back down in the gunners well,guns up again,flying low level to clear the "deadly zone",setting back. relaxing.breathing,feeling the cold sweat evaporate in the wind,waiting,looking forward ,to picking up the next troops and doing it all over again.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 20:59:34 (MST)

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Watched 'We Were Soldiers' the other night. Didn't sleep for shit for the next couple nights! Good old Hollywood!! Where did they get the sound effects of a huey coming in to land, and the engine spooling down? The m16's that never jam, or misfire? Still, it is one hell of a good movie, in my opinion. Mark, hope your dad's recovering. Thinking good thought's over our Marines and Army in Falluja. Fighting may be hell, but, waiting to fight is worse, especially if you know it's really going to happen...Semper Fi, guys...
Kim
USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 19:03:45 (MST)

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thank you all for your prayers and concern. As of now he is still in the hospital, waiting for more tests. the drs believe he has some clogged ducts near his liver. who knows. I just wish they would hurry up about it and fix it!!! i will post updates as soon as i get them. if anyone wishes to email me feel free, just put 129th in the subject so I will not delete you. thanks to all Kris
kris <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
balt, MD USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 15:49:33 (MST)

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tks alvis, was watching we were soldiers sunday and one of the pilots said going nap of the earth, i did not remember that phrase untill mid to late 70's. all the ones u used are what i was use to hearing. but then i was only a crewchief/doorgunner for 2 1/2 years. aslo noticed that lz xray was in our ao. tkas again have a great day donnie
donnie r. purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
Lexington, nc USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 11:23:47 (MST)

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MArk, hows your dad?
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 09:23:41 (MST)

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Yes ,Donnie,I remember that phrase but,us being G I's,quickly dropped that "correct phrase" and made up more colorful/driscriptive phrases. Low level, tree top,skids wet,and "under artty" are the phrases that come to mind in my time frame.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 09:22:48 (MST)

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Ray has been having stomach/acid reflex problems for quite awhile. On Sunday on top of intense pain and discomfort, his temp was 102. Keep him in your thoughts. Gently
Gently
USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 08:44:06 (MST)

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does anyone remember using the phrase nap of the earth in vietnam?
donnie r. purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
Lexington, nc USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 08:22:38 (MST)

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does anyone remember use the phrase nap of the earth in vietman.
donnie r. purvis <donnie.purvis@us.army.mil>
Lexington, nc USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 08:21:17 (MST)

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hope Rays feeling better.
alvis
USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 07:30:37 (MST)

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Kris, thanks for the heads up on Ray. I hope he's going to be alright. I'll keep a good thought for him. Please keep us posted . How's your Mom doing? Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 05:21:51 (MST)

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Gently, received the magnets today. Thanks. They look great!
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 21:22:19 (MST)

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alvis;don't drink beer anymore but i'd be proud to share my wild turkey. paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 21:16:18 (MST)

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Agent orange was indeed sprayed in the lane area. Type 2 diabeties is considered service connected due to agent orange exposeure.Tinitues(sp) is ringing in the ears.Before this year you could get service connection rating on both ears.No longer,as they combine both ears now.If you arent near,or dont know where a V.A. hospital is, you can contact your county V.A. agent.That would be my last choice,as going thru american legion,amvets,vfw or vva will bring better,faster results.Most capital cities has a federal building that you can also go thru to file a claim.do it now, you earned it.may I also suggest going for a ptsd connection.For those that ask about cold water ohio. Its on,I believe 3rd street.Its the road ,that on the map,goes straight to the town due south of cold water.Its a non discript building,white in color,with a sign nice, large,neon, sign out front in he 129th colors.saying "pop a top". There is space to park due south of the bar.If you go,wear a chest protector as mark gives bear hugs.You wont meet a nicer guy,nor a nicer gal than his wife Dee. Kokomo, what can I say? About 13 thousand folks show up over the weekend.Most or nam vets and/or their familys.Its held in an old fixed wing,dirt, landing strip between corn fields,way out in the country.Conditions are "primitive".You camp, get a hotel room (in Kokomo) or sleep in your car.Camp fires abound,as does brotherhood and good will.In the smokey skies wave unit flags as well as American flags of all sizes.Its a beautiful site at sun down.It looks like an old mountian man rondevious (sp) crossed with a open concert from the late 60s,crossed with a biker party, crossed with a reunion.Lots of alcohol comsumed,NO TROUBLE what so ever.Peace and botherhood is the word of the day.Mellow is a good discription for most folks attitude.The 2 main raods running the lenght of the area are lined with different unit camp sites.Food,beer and souvenior venders are available.In my opinion,there is nothing like sitting around a camp fire with old friends,at sunset or in darkness,watching the fire burn down,chatting,laughing,kidding,remembering.Its like those late summer nights when you where a kid and allowed to stay out kinda late.The cool of the evening,the warmth of the fire and warmth of the friendship,thousand of stars overhead ,the relaxed feeling of being with people that have been thru what you have been thru, an understanding between friends that transends speach.Come on up and have a great time,you will feel at home and be welcomed.bring beer.
alvis
USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 21:08:17 (MST)

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harrel and george and rest of flight; thanks for your replys. we will get this sorted out before to long.do i really need to go for an agent orange screening first. just wondering as info i get is that diabetes is a presupposed condition as long as you were in nam. i have asked that question a number of times and gotten as many different answers.i called the va councelor at the regional office and he said to call the va hospital. i called the va hospital and they said to call the regional office.harrel i had a stent three years ago,i didn't find it made a whole lot of difference but i wasn't real sick beforehand.the afternoon i got out of the hospital i was outside putting a muffler on the wifes car. thanks for the answers and if anyone has anything else to add i'm all ears. oh yeah harrel i can make the connection between the numb or tingling hands or feet but what would the ringing in the ears have to do with it.just curious because my ears always ring and i just looked at it as one of those things. catch ya all later paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 18:58:18 (MST)

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hi all. I wanted to let you know that I had to take Ray to the er this afternoon. He has been having abdominal pain which was really severe the last few days. They are still running tests. when I know something I will let you know. Kris-- ray's daughter
kris boone <clue4blue@hotmail.com>
balt, md USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 18:44:24 (MST)

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Paul, diabetes is now an automatic disability from the VA. Just talk to local VA rep and file a claim. If you take meds for it rating will be 20%. If you have ringing in your ears (tinitus) that will add another 10% and back pay is retroactive from the day you filed. If you have numbness and tingling in the hands or feet that will add more. File as soon as you can as they seem to be doing a lot better with claims these days. Gale, the problems might have been a blessing. In the few days since the stints were put in I feel a lot more energy, breathe and sleep better. Now all I have to do is keep it that way. I am looking forward to seeing all you guys in San Antonio next June. Its is about 4 hours drive from where I live. Very nice historic place to visit.
Harrell Guidry
Groves, Tx USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 05:15:37 (MST)

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Paul I think you need to get registered for agent orange contact your closest VA Hospital ask them and they will have a place to register there.They will give you a check up .Then go to VVA or the VFW at the same hospital and file a disability claim for agent orange exposure. Both heart problems and diabites are amoung the listed affects of agent orange.Sounds like you have a good claim. Good luck and hang in there.----- Flight I was supose to have my shoulder replaced on Nov. 9th, .on the 3rd of Nov after several hundred dollars out of pocket,many miles of driving and waiting about 5 mts.the Dr. says its in to bad of shape and he isn't good enough to fix it.He has refered me to a Dr. in Kansas City who only does shoulders.He is supposed to work on the Kansas City Chiefs. Who knows. I will see him on Dec.13. And will starting the waiting game again. At least the fake Dr. was good enough to step up and say he could'nt do it rather than botch it.I'll give him that.I am keeping up the faith and am thinking those positive wavys.But when I read on the flight I think I got it good and should'nt complain. I am just talkin to my family.--- Mark hope your Dad is better you are in our prayers.All be well and be good to your selves out there. a brother always george
george marshall
USA - Sunday, November 07, 2004 at 09:39:03 (MST)

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Harrell, good to hear from you, but, sorry about the health issue. That's no way to start your retirement! Good luck. Gale
Gale
USA - Saturday, November 06, 2004 at 20:26:52 (MST)

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hello flight well i did some digging and came up with some info on kokomo. sounds pretty interesting i would like to hear more from some people that have been there. i'm thinking of going next year as i live about 150 miles away in illinois.what i do need some help with is how to go about filing with the va. i was diagnosed with diabetes this year after my doctor got suspicious because i had a heart attack three years ago.he says that i have proabably had it for a long while.i suspect that the heart attack may have been caused by it.i got the paperwork from the va and will set about getting it all together but would appreciate any tips or advice anyone can give.i have for years tried to avoid contact with the va because of the problems i had with them in the past. at one point they owed me 8 months educational benefits and kept giving me the runaround until i took my wife and 2 kids to the va office in hartford and asked to speak with the director. we were shown into his office and i turned my 3 year old loose on his christmas tree and the 1 year old was crying for a bottle. i told my wife to make herself comfortable on his sofa and then proceeded to tell him that we would be living there until i got the money that i was owed. got some pretty quick action then. that was the last time i had anything to do with them. any way getting back to the subject i called the veterans affairs person in our county and he didn't seem any more helpful than the people i dealt with 25-30 years ago.i am not a member of any veterans organizations nor is my wife so i don't know if i can expect to get any help there. any help would be greatly appreciated. rick i remember faintly getting csed one time when i was at lane.did you guys ever get to go to the leprosy colony with us. we used to send a helo every weekend so the guys could go to the beach. thanks in advance for any help. if you want to email direct it is same name as above but at yahoo.com not ivnet. i get mail at ivnet also thanks paul
paulmcgrath <idapaulativnet.com>
oglesby, il USA - Saturday, November 06, 2004 at 18:17:02 (MST)

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Well, my turn finally came. Had a stress test and ended up with 2 stints. 80% and 90% blocked. Took 58 years but the lifestyle caught up with me (ha). Diabetes related doc said. Back to the VA for another claim. Once you are in the system they handle them rather quickly. Take care everyone.
Harrell Guidry
Groves, Tx USA - Saturday, November 06, 2004 at 15:01:07 (MST)

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Rick, thanks for acknowledging that someone I knew had died. I appreciate that. He really liked his alcohol and would start when he got up. In the last few months he went from about 145 lbs to 200. I believe his liver started failing and it was downhill from there. When we had our last Manhattan Club meeting at my place a couple of the guys found him on the floor at his place. called 911 and took him to the hospital and he just got worse.
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Saturday, November 06, 2004 at 11:46:59 (MST)

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Rainier put in for a reevaluation not and appeal. Appeals take to long. Tell your service officer if he is a good one he can make it happen in about 6 months. go for 70% or 100%. Good Luck brother.****** Mark and Dee take care of yourselves*****Robbie I salute along side you. If I may ask what happened to your buddy?****Flight be careful out there
Sassy Rick England
USA - Saturday, November 06, 2004 at 11:04:48 (MST)

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Mark, We are praying for your Dad and you. We lost my wife's mother last week and we know how hard these things are. Hang in there.
jeff
lake norman, nc USA - Friday, November 05, 2004 at 17:20:04 (MST)

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I spent all morning looking for info on one of my friends that passed away last weekend. He was in D company 1st batallion 5th cavalry in 1968. I got on a 1st Cav web site and found some info on the company he was in and left a msg on their web site log. I met Jon through some mutual friends and we were in what we laughingly call Our Manhattan Club. There were 7 of us that would gather once a month at one members house, and would rotate every month. He wouldn't talk to me about vietnam or what he did there, so I never pushed him. I found out he was in a Ranger unit that would be flown into area's to hunt charlie and then would be pulled back out after a time. Sounds like what we did for the Koreans. I saw wome of the orders his Dad had at the viewing, and he got a Bronze Star for pulling pilots out of a burning helicopter in August of 1968. Slow hand salute to Jon Kemp and I'm sure he's with his brothers that didn't make it back. While on their web site I saw many entries by Mugu. I guess he was bothering everyone.
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Friday, November 05, 2004 at 09:13:57 (MST)

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Thanks to all of you for welcoming us to your board. Have good news for many of you. Our DAV rep told us Monday that there is a new ruling on the VA that just passed on September 4, 2004. This ruling is making the board more favorable to the vets and allows things that happened that were not directly combat reltated to be approved. I have noticed that many of this group have gotten thier ratings since this date. Someone out there must still care, because many of our claims may now be processed much faster. Mike I am sorry and know how you feel about your dad. I lost mine 2 years ago and would still love to have the stubborn old coot back. Yes, South Point is in the most Southern Tip in Ohio. We live just 5 miles from Huntington, WV and the Ohio river. Is the pop a top actually in coldwater ohio. Kenneth haul coal into GM plant at Defiance Oh every weekday from Cincinnati. We are on our way today to visit his long lost buddy, Bill Qualigio from the 498th. I hope he can help Kenneth will more of the good stories and we need him to clear up a few months that Kenneth can't even remember. Will be back on line agin when I can finsish the paperwork that I need to get sent out. By and love all of you.
Ken and Kathy Blevins
South Point, OH USA - Friday, November 05, 2004 at 03:12:34 (MST)

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That's great Rainer....congrats to you. Gale
Gale
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 13:11:31 (MST)

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After complaining about the VA being slow i have to eat my words. I just recieved a letter today giving me 40%, will wonders never stop. Mark sorry to here about what you are going through with your Dad. Rainer
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 12:46:20 (MST)

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Hello Flight. Mark, I hope your Pop is stubborn enough to keep on keeping on and not so stubborn that he won't let the people that "can" help him. You being the most important person on that list. About the job, I think they're jerking me around, so I'll keep on looking. Gale, My Brother is struggling along with his treatments but from time to time is able to do some things that he likes. He had a Cat Scan done on Tuesday and will know next Tuesday if his cancer is shrinking or not. His doctor said if it's not then they would move to a different course of action. He's not sure what that would be but hopefully he won't need to know. I go back to the VA to find out the results of scanning my Kidney and bladder and all of those xrays they took. They also want me to talk to a nutritionist because I have high bad cholesterol. Damn I hate getting old. Ron and Jamie, good to see you guys are still around. Ray, my Brother you're always in my thoughts and I hope you're feeling ok. Be nice to that wife of yours. Gently, Thanks for the heart...Rob
Robbie
Rochester, NY USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 09:55:28 (MST)

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hehehehehe********Hey you want pins their yours I will send them to you we would appreicate a donation to the fund. Send me your address and they will be in the mail. They cost 6.oo plus 1.00 to send. Send the money to Judith my e-mail is bd431@mindspring.com********I remember the cs gas on the flight line at night. That was in 68. We didn't know it was the 498th.********Flight be careful out there*******From Sassy Rick England hehehehhe Alex how is the foot?
sassy Rick England
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 09:18:03 (MST)

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Mark, there's no easy answer. You just cope the best you can and remember we are here for ya. I lost my Dad in '82, I held my older brother's hand while he died (at age 54) and I held my Mom's hand while she died. We all know what you are goin' thru. Ron, good to hear from you. I hope you & Jamie are ok and we'll see you in Texas. Flight, if any of you guys (or gals) read in here, please log in once in awhile and let us know everythings ok. Dan Hertlein, Ted Gustufson, Don McCourt. Has anyone ever heard anything from Cups? Robbie, hope your brother is responding to treatments. Alvis, why don't you explain to the newbies that's asking about Kokomo(only as you can).;o) Clear, Errr Gently, I'll get some $$$ out to ya for the fund. Clear, Gale
Gale
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 08:49:51 (MST)

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Mark, I am off this friday.is there anything I can do to help? your family is ni my prayers.
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 06:18:57 (MST)

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They always do Freddy,they always do.We respond to our duty,still after all thats happened.I think thats commom in all veterans,and to me,it says alot about the kind of folks that we are.Different views,common goal,but we all participate.They always want from us, they call upon us,then cut our bennies.
alvis
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 06:17:28 (MST)

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Well all is said and done...Election is over!!!! The thing that really bothered me the most? I knew there would be a "divide" in political views of us Nam Vets.....But as the election campaign progressed and the "swifties" hit hard and there was a backlash that "pitted" us against each other.....But in the "back-ground" I kept hearing a "common theme", "That`s 35 years ago!!!!! They need to get over it"!!!!!!! FROM BOTH PARTIES!!!!!! I found that to be very "offensive and insensitive". But they got what they needed from us!!!!!!!
Fred Skaggs
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 05:00:45 (MST)

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Aye Mark, life goes on. Hang in there brother. Alvis, to say I'm disappointed about the outcome of this election is an understatement! A lot of folks worked their butts off here in Maine and did their part......however. Que Sera Sera. I still hope we'll find a way out of Iraq with some semblance of unity and dignity. On a brighter note, I get the impression that the VA has opened up a little bit in dealing with Nam vets! 44 dems to hold debate on bush's agenda isn't a good thing, there's a strong potential for the 'R's' to enact some bad legislation through lack of debate....time will tell. Cold and windy up here yesterday and today. It's going to be a long winter at this rate!!! :>))
Kim
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 04:27:08 (MST)

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Mark, it's okay we love you. Keep us updated. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Katharine
USA - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 04:26:56 (MST)

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I ment to say dad said about the ventilator " if it will help"...not " if it will hell" Take care all........lots going on then just that. Like talking to my brother for the 1st time in 2 years about it all. Dealing with pops girl friend being at the hospital the same time we are. Mom being so self centered that this whole thing has turned into something about her. Lawyers and accountant meetings, signing papers just to be able to sign checks to keep pop's businesses operating in his absence, and on, and on, and on, and on, and on, and on.......................love ya all, thanks for letting me bend your ears......always a brother,
Mark
USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 22:22:53 (MST)

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GOD BLESS AMERICA!..........Hi Hi Ron and Jamie. Good to know you are still out there. Alvis, hang in there man. Take a deep breath. Love ya brother. Robbie, the Job? Hey Ray!!!!:-)......Love to you all, and WELCOME to the new guys......Pop update....he went on a ventalator today. Before he was inproving every morning and by the afternoon we were loosing him. Been and up and down 5 days. 6 maybe. I lost count. The ventalator is like a cast on a broken arm. To let him rest so his body can try and heal. It's a temp thing because it will come off one way or the other. If it helps him heal and they back the ventalaters work down, that means that dad is improving. If they have to make the ventilator work harder, well, just the oppisite then. He is failing. Pops request to me was to never put him on one. When the Doc advise us of the situation I was faced with the dission of what to do. I prayed about it and was moved to ask dad what he want to do. I was not sure that I could get an answer from him because he has been in and out the last 4 days. I first ask him if he knew who I was. He said, Mark jackson, my son. I at least knew that he was understanding my words. I then ask him what he wanted me to do because of the fact he stated that he never want to be on a machine. He told me "If it will hell".. he wants to live.....Praise the Lord.......I never in my life ever saw any fear in my dad, but tonight, I could tell in his face his is scared. Thats was tuff to see for me. My hero, always tuff, Marine daddy afraid. That, scared me..........when I first saw pop this morning he said, "get me out of here"...I said pop, all this stuff is helping you to get better and as soon as you are, I promise I will get you out of here. The nurse ask him his name. He repeated 5 times Carl A. Jackson, Carl A. Jackson.....I said. dad. How can we let you out. You cant even sit up, you cant stand up, you cant even raise your arm. He procided to raise his arm 5 times for me to prove he could. I then ask him, OK dad, what your service number? he blurted it out5 times 551675. Mind you he has a 6 diget number WWII...God Bless him. But i just couldnt give him the permission to get out. He needs to be there so he can heal. He has more problems then just this injury. I just found out that he knew for the last 2 years he has bone cancer and has refused treatment for it and told the doc never to tell any of us.:-(.....I love my dad.........please pray for him. always a brother
Mark
USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 22:13:42 (MST)

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I heard on the news today that this was the largest voter turnout since 1968. How interesting is that? Hmmmmmmm........VietNam War.......Iraq........
Jim & Sue H.
USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 21:23:47 (MST)

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I could be wrong here. I feel that this past election process has rubbed the scab of bareley healed wounds or things that we have supressed and delt with, all,in our on ways. For me, the "dreams" came back, the anger I didnt realize was so powerful and consuming, the sense of betrayal,remorse,depression,survival guilt,my intake of alcohol,brooding,and other things I have yet to name or figure out.I am truely glad its over.Perhaps now I can fuction without a black cloud hanging somewhere over the near horizon. I almost feel used and dirty,dispite my thought processes thats its just an election game played every so often. Thsi election has been very trying for me,personaly. Perhaps I took it to personaly,or it brought back things i didnt want revisting me.To any I offended, I apologise.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 21:11:48 (MST)

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Welcome to the site you new guys from the 498th. Fred Skaggs and I can remember you guys "CS-ing" us when the wind was right - and us returning the favor when the wind would change directions. We weren't very far away - just being across the street. Weather changing here in Montana - snowing right now and getting colder than @#$#@. I hate winter anymore. Makes the war wound ache like a mother bear. I keep reading, but haven't had much to say. Take care - hope to see you all soon. Ron DeBates
Ron DeBates <rebateatcablemt.net>
Big Timber, MT USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 19:20:46 (MST)

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AMEN............
Keith 72-73
Ms. USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 16:22:46 (MST)

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I agree Rainer, but for different reasons. Yes, thank god its over.
alvis
USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 08:28:20 (MST)

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Thank God election day is finally here, now maybe the political ads will stop, I am sick of both sides <->
Rainer Bauer
Indy, USA - Tuesday, November 02, 2004 at 18:39:46 (MST)

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thanks kim. i have a pretty good idea now. we used to go up to moosehead when i was a kid. also used to go to pocomoonshine lake out by calais. i really miss maine and that area i have to go to minnesota to get anything like it out here in the flatlands thanks paul
paul mcgrath
oglesby, il USA - Tuesday, November 02, 2004 at 13:53:28 (MST)

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Welcome new family members! All are welcome here, Democrats and Republicans alike. LOL!!!! Family--The monies are not yet trickling in for our Christmas fund. Yes, it's early but it's never too early. Last year with the $1300 we collected, we were able to send three people to the 129th re-union....let's do that again this year! Even if we don't have an item to raffle off as we did last year, let's get as many of the family to TX as we possibly can. For those of you who have never contributed before, if you can, please do. I'm looking forward to seeing some old names from the site on the new name list for the Fund. We cannot have someone not attend because they do not have the cash-we're all getting older and more sickly and every year must be looked at as very precious. My address etc, is: Judith Singer, 7221 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee WI, 53213. So let the cash start rolling in!:>))))For those of you who want send money but can't afford it, please don't worry or feel obligated-your 129th brothers and the 129th supporters have you covered. I'm also looking for suggestions as to who might be in need of help to get there:you may want to suggest someone or even ask for yourself (please put your pride aside). This is all kept confidential between myself and the Christmas Fund Board: Alex "Foot" Fernwalt, Mark "Chopper" Jackson, and Sassy Rick England. Please be as generous as you can. Please. With a wink. J Alex, Sue-magnets going out in the mornig: email the address to which you want them sent to me. :>))
Gently
USA - Tuesday, November 02, 2004 at 11:27:39 (MST)

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South Point,Ohio......that`s off U.S.52, I use to go that way to Warfield,Kentucky, back in the 70`s. I`d go down the W.V. side and cross over into Kentucky at Kermit,W.V.. I got family in Portsmouth,Ohio....
Fred Skaggs
USA - Tuesday, November 02, 2004 at 08:03:20 (MST)

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Paul, Livermore is north of Turner, South of Jay, east of Canton, and west of Livermore Falls and Leeds. Any help??.... Actaually, it's a small (pop 2200) town north of Auburn, on the way to ski country. I'm about 45 minutes from Sunday River Ski area, an hour from Sugarloaf USA, an hour and a half from Saddleback in Rangeley. We're about ten miles from ITS 85, which is one of the snowmobile routes into Canada.
Kim
Livermore, USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 20:57:49 (MST)

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Recently, I was diagnosed with A. A. A. D. D. - Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder. This is how it manifests: I decide to wash my car. As I start toward the garage, I notice that there is mail on the hall table. I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car. I lay my car keys down on the table, put the junk mail in the trash can under the table, and notice that the trash can is full. So, I decide to put the bills back on the table and take out the trash first. But then I think, since I'm going to be near the mailbox when I take out the trash anyway, I may as well pay the bills first. I take my checkbook off the table, and see that there is only one check left. My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go to my desk where I find the can of Coke that I had been drinking. I'm going t! o look for my checks, but first I need to push the Coke aside so that I don't accidentally knock it over. I see that the Coke is getting warm, and I decide I should put it in the refrigerator to keep it cold. As I head toward the kitchen with the coke a vase of flowers on the counter catches my eye--they need to be watered. I set the Coke down on the counter, and I discover my reading glasses that I've been searching for all morning. I decide I better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going to water the flowers. I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container with water and suddenly I spot the TV remote. Someone left it on the kitchen table. I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV, I will be looking for the remote, but I won't remember that it's on the kitchen table, so I decide to put it back in the den where it belongs, but first I'll water the flowers. I splash some water on the flowers, bu! t most of it spills on the floor. So, I set the remote back down on the table, get some towels and wipe up the spill. Then I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to do. At the end of the day, the car isn't washed, the bills aren't paid, there is a warm can of Coke sitting on the counter, the flowers aren't watered, there is still only one check in my checkbook, I can't find the remote, I can't find my glasses, and I don't remember what I did with the car keys. Then when I try to figure out why nothing got done today, I'm really baffled because I know I was busy all day long, and I'm really tired. I realize this is a serious problem, and I'll try to get some help for it, but first I'll check my e-mail. Do me a favor, will you? Send this to everyone you know, because I don't remember to whom it has been sent. :)
Ricik
USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 19:31:21 (MST)

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howdy again; after i was here i started looking thru flight log more and was curious what the thing in kokomo is all about. would someone explain? also where in the hell is livermore me.i am originally from new england but i can't place livermore. i used to take care of a b&b in york beach. thanks paul
paul <idapaulativnet>
il USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 15:30:06 (MST)

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rick; i was there mar 70 till end of july 70. from there went back to 61st med in qui nhon. first sargent didn't like me flying without helo. the club there was pretty good. i seem to remember smoking some of the tree that was outside. the officers from your side of the street didn't like that much. i was supposed to be a cook but decided back in fort carson that i didn't like that so every unit i went to i promptly got my self thrown out of the messhall. i spent most of my time in nam working in supply or motorpool, or pulling guard duty or burning shit. actually working in the motorpool worked out because i have been a maintenance mech for 24 years now. catch ya later. support our troops not the politicans. paul
paul mcgrath <idapaulativnet>
oglesby, il USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 14:01:08 (MST)

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Rick, you've liked every club that you have ever been in !!;o)) HeeHHeHhhEEEeHe.....Kenneth & Paul, Welcome home brothers and welcome to our 129th family. Next reunion is in June at San Antonio. Clear, Gale
Gale 67-68
USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 12:41:47 (MST)

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Welcome home Paul and Kenneth. Paul what year were you at the 498th? I liked the club you guys had there.hehehehehee
Rick England
USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 10:30:08 (MST)

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Flight: Been missing for a while. Liz and I spent some relaxing days in the Great Smokie Mountains. All the entertainers and businesses showed their apprecation for all Veterans. Really made me feel good. Mark sorry to hear about your Dad. He is in our thoughts and Prayers. And remember at his age they want their slef independence. My Mom and Dad are in their mid 80's Mom still drives and Dad gets out walking everywhere I won't tell them they can't. Patience for our parents. Robbie was good talking to you. I'm hoping the will get the job. Got my fingers crossed. Ray will try and call later this week. Rainer same for you. I have heard fromm a couple of guys from the 394th. Would like to find more. Judith thanks for the ribbon magnets. They look great. It's good to see all the commo. And the out pouring love and concern for Brothers and Sisters and their families. Proud to be a member of the 129th family. Always A Brother Alex
Alex
Collierville, TN. USA - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 08:06:40 (MST)

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