I have been requested to include recollections from various personnel that have either worked on the SR

SR-71 ALMA MATER

RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE PAST
Guest Book Entry's for 2000

I have been requested to include recollections from various personnel that have either worked on the SR-71 or have been closely associated with the program through support operations. Bear in mind that the SR-71 could have never flown had it not been for the expertise of personnel in a wide variety of specialties in the US Air Force and civilian industry. These include but are not limited to KC-135Q Refueling Support, Air Traffic Controllers, Security Policemen, Base Fire Suppression Support, Medical personnel, Lockheed Technical Support, Physiological Support Division (PSD) and a vast array of top notch people that expended that extra effort to insure the success of the program. If you have been associated with the Blackbird Program and wish to share something with others, please feel free to Sign the Guest Book . Do not send any classified information (The U.S. Government has been assigned that task and will declassify information as necessary). Additionally, if you feel you qualify to join the Blackbird Association see the link at the bottom of this page or Click Here and go directly to that link.

There are Eleven total web pages that comprise the
"SR-71 Alma Mater and Recollections of the Past"

The original web page (the one you are on now) had grown to over 3 Megs in size. To expedite your Browser loading, I have divided the "Guest book" Entries into Chronological year groups by dates the e-mail was received..

The first year group starts in 1996 and includes the year 1997
The second year group is 1998
The third year group is 1999
The fourth year group is 2000
The fifth year group is 2001
The sixth year group is 2002
The seventh year group is 2003
The eighth year group is 2004
The ninth year group is 2005
The tenth year group is 2006
The eleventh year group is 2007

If you have been associated with the SR-71 and would like to have your experiences or recollections listed on these Web Pages please fill out the form on the

Guest Book

Sat, 30 Dec 2000 19:36 A1C Brian Coffman Writes: I was a Jet Mech at Beale from March 86 until April 88. I just stumbled over this site and was pleasantly surprised at the content and comments. It would be great to hear from some of the ole gang.

Keep up the great work!!!!!!!

A1C Brian Coffman

Email: lost1zmarbles@hotmail.com
Editor's Note: That is for sure his Email address!

Wed, 27 Dec 2000 17:27 Col. (Ret.) Gid Terry Writes: What a great set of web pages. Of course the subject deserves only the very best. I spent many years associated with the SR - 71 and U -2 programs. It all started when I was a KC-135 Q model pilot out of Little Rock . Then after a stint in Terrejon Spain as the Asst. DCM of our tanker operation, I went to Beale first in the 456th Bomb Wg. as the OMS SQ. CMDR. then over to the 9SRW and subsequently the DCM. What a great assignment and for two reasons: the fantastic maintenance troops and the exciting aircraft that we had under our care. A couple of the great troops included CMSgt Frank Tucci, CMSgt Don Campbell, CMSgt Bob "Slick" Fraizer, and tech reps like Fred Carmody. These are just a very few of the folks that made this one of the most exciting tours a fellow could experience. I even got to fly both the SR and the U-2 and all that is thanks to Col. Mike Kidder. Those were the days when we had two wings, two DCO'S and one DCM with one large and hard working maintenance complex with several Dets around the world. What a HOOT!! But we punched out about 40 sorties per day at the home place..I happened upon your web after visiting Gilmer TX . on the occasion of dedicating the airport to Col. Fox Stephens. Thanks for such an outstanding opportunity to reflect and perhaps run upon some of those who had as much fun as I did.

Col. (Ret.) Gid Terry

Email: gterry@shreve.net

Sat, 23 Dec 2000 19:19 Sgt Gayle Kirkland Writes: I was stationed at Beale AFB with the 9th OMS from Feb 67 thru Sept 69. I was assigned to the Training Section under CMSgt A J Smith. I was transferred to the flight line about 4 weeks before I shipped out to Thailand . I think when they found out I could read and write and type better than most of the clerks, I never made it to the flight line.

Sgt Gayle Kirkland

Email: gkirknub@aol.com

Sat, 23 Dec 2000 18:56 Ronald Dickneite MSgt (Ret) Writes: I was one of the first few personnel to be assigned to the Blackbird program at Beale AFB, CA. In fact we were assigned to the 4200 OMS. I had arrived at Beale in May of 1965. We didn't have any aircraft to work on so some of the people were loaned out to the 456th to help them out, some did squadron duties around the base. I can remember coming to work and standing around the little building across from the chow hall. There we all would get in groups by our rank and have roll call. This is the time they were picking crew chiefs and assistants to go down to the factory to pick up their assigned planes and others were sent to the other place to work on flying aircraft so we could get some experience on them. Some of the peoples names I remember are C D Allen, William "BILL" Bell, James Martin, Eddie Roper, Don Carey, Leroy Hanson, Larry Harris, Clifford Fessler, Ed Thorner, Chuck Carter, Ken Becker, Bill Gornick, H. Hollis, Williams, Don Bennett, Schwartz, Kennedy, B. Kuperwitz, Roger Massey and many more through out the years. Some of the best times were had were in the early days when every one was treated fairly and equally. The Squadron picnic that some of the guys put on a show with top hats over their bodies and their stomach's showing, and dancing to some tune. I can remember going to OL8 for the first time what a blast; Kobe beef steak for dinner, the NCO Club, the riding stables, and the Shi Shi dogs. I put in for an Instructor job in the 525 FTD to replace Ed Stratton upon his retirement. I was there for several year teaching the APG course along with Seat Safety and other courses. Some of the other instructors were Hanks (Radar), Gary Campbell (Autopilot), Davis (Engines), Lasky (HYD). I don't think there was a better unit / wing in all the AF, even better than the 89th at Andrews. All the people that started that program are long retired and all we have left are the memories.

Ronald Dickneite MSgt (Ret)

Email: ronald.dickneite@gte.net

Tue, 19 Dec 2000 19:17 Scott Elder Writes: Nice job...Great site. I operate another skunk works product currently. A JetStar, know in the military as a VC-140 I believe. My boss was worried about flying in a 1966 airplane. I told him about Kelly Johnson and the Skunk Works and their Concorde beater. Designs ahead of they're time, and the other manufacturers are still figuring it out. My current wrench was Kadena based in the 80's for aircraft structures. Dave Marchsteiner. Seems he changed the leading edges on one bird that went a little too fast. I always felt you could tell the devotion of a group by the product they put out. The stories on this website represent a tremendous amount of devotion, professionalism and sense of duty. Don't ever think the people on the outside don't appreciate it. The legend lives.

Scott Elder, Civilian
Email: seagullaircraft@worldnet.att.net

Sun, 17 Dec 2000 15:17 Bob Mocklin Writes: I was with the 9th RTS from about June 1967 until my enlistment ended in Sep 1970. I always wonder what happened to some of the guys I worked with: how they are, where they are, how life's been treating them, how many times they've been married, how many kids do they have, and that sort of thing. I wish I could remember everyone's name, but I can't, so here are those that I can think of immediately, without much thought, in no particular order: Sam Lockridge (thanks, Sam, for pointing me to this site), Leonard Dill, Eddie Hickman, Joe Harrison, Mike Sonnenberg, Delmar Anthony, Jim Brown, Joe Felder, Steve Kelly, David Sourwine, Billy C. Langston, Sgt Kesterson, Charlie Painter, Jerry Ingram, Lowell Rollyson, Sgt LeTourneau from Maine, Sgt Dennison, Sgt Hector (whose last name escapes me) ... and Thank You, Sgt Haynes, for putting this site together and maintaining it.

Bob Mocklin

Email: rmocklin@mediaone.net

Mon, 11 Dec 2000 16:01 SSgt Richard A. Clark Writes: I was a Simulator Technician on the SR-71 Flight Simulator from 4-80 to 4-90. It was a pleasure being associated with such an elite group of personnel and the overall program. The experiences have been so memorable that it was like I was there yesterday and a web site like this just keeps them alive! Thanks.

SSgt Richard A. Clark

Email: richard.a.clark4@boeing.com

Thu, 7 Dec 2000 11:59 Sgt Shermont E. Pressley Writes: Anyone from 1977 to 1981 Beale, Kadena, Osan.

Sgt Shermont E. Pressley
No Email address
Street Address: 1211 Hudson St.
City: Harrisburg
State : PA
Zip: 17104
Phone Number: 717 2384265

Wed, 6 Dec 2000 14:59 SSgt Lex A. Davis Writes: Trying to find any photos of cartoons I drew on Det.1 aircraft tails and shop doors.(1977 to 1980). I was an Elint/ECM specialist at Beale during this time.

SSgt Lex A. Davis

Email: flex1313@worldnet.att.net

Sun, 3 Dec 2000 19:11:07 MSgt (Ret) Rich Hummer Writes: Worked Autopilot from Jan 1970-Jul 1973. Most rewarding memories of my entire AF career. Spent most of my time at Kadena. Great site keep up the good work.

MSgt (Ret) Rich Hummer

Email: RHUMMER784@aol.com

Sat, 2 Dec 2000 09:18 MSgt Dennis P. Pugh, USAF, Retired Writes: My brother Tom Pugh flew the a/c from 70-84 when he retired. Maybe you remember him as I think you shared time at Beale. I'm retired from USAF as well and spent my time as avionics nav sys tech and later in the ELINT business. I was stationed at Beale in 75/76 but with the 456 BW. Tom was at Palmdale Plant 42 while I was at Beale. I tried to get into the 9th but it seems now that the AF didn't want two Pughs in the same organization! Thanks for your nice web page.

MSgt Dennis P. Pugh, USAF, Retired

Email: K7VAY@compuserve.com

Fri, 1 Dec 2000 15:52 Roger Sharp Writes: Having worked in the PSD for several years, both at Davis-Monthan and Beale I can say I was thrilled to see this page.
Good memories.

Roger Sharp

Email: rsharp@canyoncounty.org

Tue, 28 Nov 2000 15:04 SSgt Steven DeLong Writes: My first duty station was Beale with the 48th Intel Squadron with a Deployable Ground Station. I used to walk around the SR-71 now on display on the flightline at least twice a week. This was in the summer of 1994. The SR-71 was supposed to come back and we were to implement our systems with it. Unfortunately, Congress thought otherwise. Great Website!!

SSgt Steven DeLong

Email: steven.delong@pressroom.com

Mon, 27 Nov 2000 23:38 MSgt (Retired) Darwin Evelsizer Writes: I was assigned to the 9RTS Exploitation Section, (imagery analysis) from June 1965 to May 1977 with a one year break in 1971 for a tour in Viet Nam with the 12 Recon Intel Tech Sqd. Some of the guys that I remember working with are Virgil Ditch, Dick Calahan, Bob Rossi, Ted Bollerud, Jim Bayle, Chuck Cordell, Morgan Warren, Don Jackson, Junior Songer, Paul Finkus and Bob Holsapple. More later.

Tue, 28 Nov 2000 10:17 Leland: Your web site for the Blackbirds is absolutely fantastic. I have spent several hours looking through it and intend to look even more. This has brought back many very pleasant memories of my years at Beale, 1965-1977. You have produced a very fitting tribute to the SR-71 and the Habu's, Bat Caver's, etc who flew, maintained and supported the gorgeous, best, greatest, fastest, highest, one-of-a-kind, unstoppable, kick-ass, titanium wonder bird.

One event from my time at Beale that sticks out in my mind is the episode of the "Great Orange Speck." Several VIP type people left San Francisco on a sailboat on their way to Hawaii for a vacation. Their boat developed some type of problem and sank leaving the people floating in a life raft somewhere between 'Frisco and Honolulu . A U-2R was tasked to fly a series of parallel "tracks" over the area where the boat was thought to be. The U-2 and the SR-71 normally carried only black and white film both because it was cheaper and it produced considerably better resolution than did color film. Color film was selected for this search mission because it was felt that the contrast of the orange life raft against the blue-green ocean would outweigh the loss of image quality.

Every PI in the shop was brought in to scan the film in an attempt to locate the boat or raft. We knew from the size of the raft that it was going to be extremely small on the film and very difficult, if not impossible to detect. I think that it was during the second day of searching that I found an almost imperceptible "speck" on the film that appeared to have a faint trace of orange color to it. The photo processing folks took a very careful look at the film to insure that it wasn't a speck of dirt, pinhole in the emulsion or some other film defect. There is a clock picture on each frame of imagery and we compared the time of this frame to the pilot's log and location of the speck within the frame in a W.A.G. (Wild A _ _ Guess) attempt to determine the location of what we hoped was the raft. These coordinates were sent to the Coast Guard and they applied their S.W.A.G. (Scientific Wild A _ _ Guess) formulas for wind and current drift to determine the theoretical, present location. They sent a C-130 search and rescue bird to the anticipated location to begin a systematic search pattern. They arrived at the coordinates and BINGO, there was the raft with several people in it! The media gave considerable coverage to the safe return of these folks, but very little was mentioned about the role the 9SRW and 9 RTS performed in the rescue.

I went PCS from Beale to the 43 SW at Andersen AFB, Guam , in May of 1977 to do nuclear strike mission planning for the B-52D. Two years later I somehow got transferred out of SAC and went to MAC at Scott AFB, IL to work in Air Rescue & Recovery Service and USAF Special Operations. I retired in 1984 and still live near Scott.

Sincerely,

Darwin Evelsizer, MSgt (Ret.)
Email: darwine@accessus.net

Sun, 26 Nov 2000 00:29 Colonel Jon Kraus Writes: Browsing as usual, thought I might update my Email address. Great site keep up the good work. [RSO 1967-1973,9th AMS CC 1974-1976 ,14th ADV LG 1979-1982] retired 1985.

Colonel Jon Kraus

Email: mjkraus32@sbcglobal.net Email address updated January 09, 2008

Mon, 20 Nov 2000 16:18 A1C Thomas D. Moore (Tom) Writes: I first got to Beale AFB in July, 1967, and had never heard of the SR-71. I was in the 856th Med. Group., and assigned to the hospital there. I arrived at night, and bunked in the barracks across from the BX entrance, which backed up to the field at the end of the runway. I came out the first AM to a bright California morning, heard this horiffic roar, and looked left to see my first SR-71 taking off. It was love at first sight, and I lobbied from day 1 to get to the PSD section and work near that bird. I finally got there, and thought I had died and gone to heaven. I remained there until I went to Viet Nam , in Sep 68, and then requested to return to Beale, hoping to reunite with the plane. I got back to Beale, but was assigned to the ER at the hospital. I never made it back to PSD, but working with the crews and support personnel was one of the highlights of my USAF enlistment. I can still close my eyes and see that beautiful black baby taking off that first morning....I love that plane.

A1C Thomas D. Moore (Tom)

Email: hotglass@mediaone.net

Sat, 11 Nov 2000 18:12 Jeffrey W. Shelton Writes: My Father-in-law is Ret. TSgt Marcus Mitchell, USAF. When I met my "future" Father-in-law 7 years ago, one of the first things he showed me was his work on the SR-71, The Blackbird. What he showed me was quite impressive. What he has showed me has sparked a great interest in what is the GREATEST flying machine ever. But most of all, what he has shown me is PRIDE. He takes great pride in his involvement with the SR-71. It shows every time he mentions it or when he shows me recent books or videos he has received. The same way the pride is shown through the various people included in this website. All of you gentlemen definitely have something to be proud of and this website is wonderful to search through.

Jeffrey W. Shelton

Email: jbsheltn@gateway.net

Thu, 9 Nov 2000 13:17 Son of Sgt. Senua J. Hebert Writes: My father was attached to the SR-71 Squadron in April of 1965...I know the date well because I was a senior in High School when my father asked me and my family to move to Marysville, Ca. Leaving behind my fellow classmates for many years tore my heart out, but being an "Air Force Brat", I put it behind me not knowing that I would experience a once in a life time event. The birth of the SR-71. To this day I still possess the poster with the names of the original pilots as well as a gold lapel pin. These items I will treasure forever. As we approach Veteran's Day and as Vietnam Veteran myself, I salute my Father who has retired to post everlasting. I miss you dearly, my Poppa....Your Son Walt.

Walt Hebert, Son of Sgt. Senua J. Hebert

Email: wgheb611@bigplanet.com

Mon, 6 Nov 2000 06:30 Steven Myatt, Capt Writes: I worked as an enlisted troop in the Habu photo shop from '75 -'77. I was fortunate enough to be selected for the AECP program and I left the 9th AMS for school in August of '77. So many great people I worked with back then (some are long gone): SMSgt Storer, MSgt Wagner, Sgt Howlett, MSgt Hyzinskie (misspelled no doubt), Sgt Dave Luna, Airman Cole, Airman Deb Manual (went hiking in the Sierras and was never heard from again), Airman Davidson. One of the more interesting moments in my Habu career came when I was at Det1 and I got to watch the SLR shop put together the tracking chart for the back-seater. At the end of the scrolling chart, the SLR guys put in a bunch of center-folds for the RSO to contemplate while the aircraft was being landed. I'll bet you never see this little tid-bit of information in SR-71 books! By the way, I happen to have taken about a dozen color photos of 979 when I went out with the launch truck in the spring of '77. If you'd like an e-mail copy or perhaps you're writing a book and would like to use Unique, Unpublished color photos of an operational SR-71 going out on a mission, then send me an e-mail at myattmr2@yahoo.com. Take care folks. We are all that are left.

Steven Myatt, Capt

Email: myattmr2@yahoo.com

Sat, 4 Nov 2000 06:48 SMSgt. (Ret.) Charles (Chuck) J. Kanach Jr.Writes: I was initially assigned to 9th AMS Sq. during Aug. 1978. I worked in the Comm/Nav Branch, Auto Pilot Branch, I was acting 1st Sgt. and Training NCOIC. During this assignment, I was also loaned to the Base Education Office for a year to established the base PME program. I did all of the instructing for the first year of the program. In April 1981 I was re-assigned to Det. at Kadena AFB as the Avionic's NCOIC where I served until June 1985. I retired in June 1986 from Tinker AFB, OK where I still serve as a civilian in support of the E-3 AWACS. I considered the time with the 9th SRW as the highlight of of my 26 years of active duty. Thank you for the work you are doing keeping this web going.

SMSgt. (Ret.) Charles (Chuck) J. Kanach Jr.

Email: KC5EZS@TDS.NET

Fri, 3 Nov 2000 11:37 Bill Burgett ECM/ANS Tec. Rep Writes: I was a rep at Beale AFB from 1965 to 1969 working primarily on the ANS system,(NAS-14). Went to OL-8 in Dec. 1969 and stayed until Aug. 1974 with the ANS and ECM equipment. Returned to Beale and worked in ECM until 1978. From 1978 until 1982 worked on numerous programs until I went to Mildenhall (Det. 4) in Mar. 1982 Until July 1988. Upon my return to the states I retired. Working on the SR-71 program had to be the highlight of my entire career. I also was on the U2 program on the NAS-21 flight test prior to my assignment to Det. 4. Met an awful lot of nice folks and the memories are still clearly the best of all. It would take reams of paper and hours trying to recall all of my many friends and acquaintances. See most of you in Reno next year.

Bill Burgett ECM/ANS Tech. Rep

Email: habu402@att.net

Mon, 30 Oct 2000 19:57 MSgt (Retired) David "Mike" Berry Writes: It is with great pride that I recall my experiences with both the SR-71 and the U-2R from 1970 to 1982. Beale AFB was my first assignment out of tech school. I worked in the 9th AMS ECM/EWS shop from Feb 1970 to Dec 1973, leaving for a short stint to Thailand/Guam in Nov 73/74, and back (thanks to code 51) to Beale AFB (1974) until my PCS assignment to Det 1 (RTS) in Okinawa (1980). The many TDYs to OL-8/OL-RK/Det 1, Det 6, and other locations, provided me with the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Although I went on to work the B-52D/G, and A-10 Warthog, no other assignment ever measured up to the caliber of camaraderie felt with people like Bill Donathan (where are you???), John MacNeil, Doug Bentley, Bill Whittle, Mike Hull , William Stewart, Malcolm Tarver, and the civilians; (John Gianissimo, Stan Gryzbeck, Ron Badamo, on Okinawa) and Gerry Berger, Gary, Bill Burgett, Roger M. at Beale, and so many more I had the pleasure of working with over the years. Nothing can beat the many nights spent watching that sleek Habu flying off into the dark Okinawan night, tail rings extending behind in a halo glow and a thundering rumble in the air. Waiting patiently for the Blackbird to roll back to its "nest"; seemed the longest time ever. When you saw the flurry of activity as the crews pounced on it to recover the plane at engine shutdown, you knew another mission had been successfully completed and a sense of pride came over you for being part of that. The fact that so many people have searched for this site, even after many years away from the SR-71 program, attests to the impact this great program had on each of our lives. Fantastic web site, Leland! It was great fun reminiscing; I shall visit often.

MSgt (Retired - 1990) David "Mike" Berry
Email: tigrr50@hotmail.com

Mon, 30 Oct 2000 16:39 CMSgt. (Ret) Horst R. Goeritz Writes: Coming across this website has triggered emotions that have kept me crying and laughing all day. It is like coming home and talking about all the wonderful experiences of a lifetime. I would like to relate a few stories of a great bunch of troops I was privileged to supervise in the Instrument Shop from 1970 to 1976. I would like some time to collect my thoughts before submitting them to this website.

Thu, 2 Nov 2000 20:06 Additional comments added: CMSgt (Ret.) Horst Goeritz, 9 AMS 1970-1976. The most memorable event during my tenure as NCOIC of the 9 AMS Instrument Shop (better known as the INLET Shop), was the challenge to program the Inlets of 972 and the "Backup" with the best possible inlet schedule available without risking "Unstarts". Initially, the core team consisting of Ted Hansen, Airesearch Tech. Rep: TSgt Herb Greathouse and myself studied reams of digital data obtained from our friends at NASA. (The NASA SR's had a reputation of flying without the annoying "Unstarts") The data proved invaluable , because it taught us to rethink our approach and methodology in scheduling the Air Inlets. (this eventually led to the Digital Air Inlet Systems, DAFICS) (Note we were able to procure a couple of those newfangled, handheld TI Calculators to do the number crunching.) However, at the time it was impossible to duplicate a NASA schedule on the ground with the available support equipment. We needed another approach. Using the Mission Recorder System as a measuring tool rather than an analytical means, we extrapolated the data and determined the minimum Air Inlet Computer adjustments. Some folks in the know were not entirely happy with our methods. But it was hard to argue success. The effort was wholly supported by the prime crews of Sullivan/Widdifield and Adams/Machorek. Although I am quite sure they were not aware of how it was possible to improve the Inlets performance from one flight to the next. Suffice it to say, they were delighted. After each flight and formal debrief, Capt. Adams and Maj. Machorek would visit the shop and we would jointly read the tapes. Each time we figured another "tweak" until one day the only comment from Buck Adams was: "It's a Cadillac!" Well, you know the rest of the story. The day after the record setting flight, New York-London, the 9 AMS stood down and had a Picnic. I was on call and when the Tapes arrived I tore myself away from the cold suds, Hot Dogs and home made Chili. The tapes told a story I can not describe, except for one concern: the total inlet temperature was perilously close to exceeding exhaust gas temperature at some point in the 1hr 54 min 56 sec flight. I would like to dedicate this story, and give honor, to Capt. Buck Adams for the help he provided me for inspiring and motivating many three-levels to become outstanding airmen. Thanks, Buck, wherever you are!
P.S. Leland, it may have been you that stopped and questioned me about what I was doing to the AICS without a work order.

CMSgt. (Ret) Horst R. Goeritz
Email: horstg@yahoo.com

Sat, 28 Oct 2000 21:07 TSgt Marcus Mitchell Ret, USAF Writes: Having served in the United Stated Air Force for 17 Yrs. 6 Mos, I was a member of the 4200 Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. I was the 13th original Chief in this Wing which later became the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. I received Acft. #64-17971 from the Lockheed Factory. I made the Air Force Acceptance Inspection on it. The Aircraft only had 14 flying hrs. logged in its records. In 1968 I prepared it to go back to the factory for IRAN it had 250:00 Flying Logged in the 781 aircraft records. I launched 971 nine times in succession and it landed after each mission with OK Flights written up in the 781A. That was a record that no other Chief matched while I was in the organization. I was nominated for the Master Chief Award, and received it. I can prove it, but because I was Black all other Chiefs received the same Award without having the same record documented. I retired from the USAF. Jun.1,1970. I was in the organization 1 year before we received the first Aircraft which was #64-17956B. I would like to locate CMSgt A.J.Smith

From: TSgt Marcus Mitchell Ret, USAF
Email: aspen38@midwest.net

Thu, 26 Oct 2000 07:56 A1C Carl Yelverton Writes: In March of 1966 I was assigned to the 4200th FMS (later 9th FMS) right out of tech school (airframe repair in Amarillo). All the shops in field maintenance were receiving new people to augment the career men which were previously assigned to the SR-71 program. There were six new men in the sheet metal shop all were A3C (E-2). They were Blucher, Stokes, Filier, Orca, St John and myself, we were all from California . There is a funny story that goes along with my being assigned to the 4200th FMS. I received my orders with about a week to go in tech school. It just so happened that going through high performance sheet metal school at that time was the shop chief of the 456th FMS sheet metal shop, the B-52/KC-135 wing at Beale. An instructor introduced me to him because he though I would be working for him. He looked at my orders and said something to the effect, "there is a mistake here, you can't be going there, you will never see this outfit" and then assured me I would work for him. Will I didn't and couldn't have been happier? By the way he was an SSgt (E-5), our shop chief SMSgt Reynolds was an E-8. One of my proudest accomplishments while working on the Blackbirds is my being involved with painting the Red 1 & Habu on the tail of 974 "ICHI BAN" It was around September 1968 (Could have been any time between August and January 1969, the time I was TDY). My shop chief at Kadena MSgt Paul (last name) cut the stencils and I did the painting. There were several other things that were painted on SR-71's, I can't remember them all, however, I wonder if anyone remembers the hobo on the outboard main gear doors with the words HABU HOBO under it? Or how about changing the serial number of an on a plane that was being rotated back to Beale to 978 because while we were TDY 978 went off the runway at Beale and was written off? I was discharged in February 1969 as a Sgt (A1C E-4) 9 months early, seems the Air Force only had enough budget for people or bombs not both, they chose the later. I currently work for Lockheed Martin (30 plus years) as the L-1011 Resident Support Manager, RAF Brize Norton. I would like to here from anyone stationed at Beale during the early years. Thank you for a wonderful web site, while the SR-71's may not be flying, they will always be cruising at Mach 3+ in my heart.

Thank You, Again

A1C Carl Yelverton
Email: L1011BZN@aol.com

Thu, 26 Oct 2000 10:18 SSgt Rod Stadum Writes: Served in the 9th AMS from Jun 71 to Dec 73, including TDY tours in Okinawa and New York . I am fortunate enough to live and work near the USAF Museum , where 17976 is retired. Give me a call and we can meet there at noon, when you get a chance to visit. Best regards to each of you.

SSgt Rod Stadum
Email: RStadum@GMail.com

Mon, 23 Oct 2000 22:03 Leonard Kania Writes: I just saw that Col. Bull has passed on. He had to be one of the most colorful of the crewmen I worked with. One morning, after suiting him and his RSO up (I worked in PSD), we headed out to the flight line in our van. Upon arriving at the MP gate, the MP stated he could not let us pass because there was a police drill in effect. Col. Bull rose from his seat and told the MP that he was interfering with a tactical flight; the MP was standing directly in front of me, the driver. Col Bull sat down and said to me: "Sgt. Kania, drive over that man!" Well, the MP's eyes became very large as he looked at me. I shrugged to indicate I had a direct order and put the transmission into drive. The MP moved aside and off we went. The flight took off as scheduled. I have many fond memories of PSD and Kadena AB. If anyone knows the location of Col. Ron Rice, please let me know. I would enjoy hearing from anyone at PSD, 1970 to 1972.

Leonard Kania
Email: kaniason@vom.com

Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:37 MSgt (Ret.) Robert E. (Bob) Huff Writes: Great web site! See lots of names of people I knew in your Guestbook. I was assigned to Edwards and the SR-71/YF12A Test Force in early l965. I was an A1C in the Aircraft Fuel Systems Shop (Fuel Cell). What a shock when I saw the YF12 for the first time, (no SR's yet). The Test Project was great work and plenty of it in my career field. Being one of the very few airmen in the outfit, I did plenty of hangar sweeping also at shifts end. Then in 1967 it was off to Beale's 9th FMS Fuel Systems Shop. More great people to work with. Then off to OL-8 and back. Left Beale in l970 as a TSgt on my way to SEA to become a "Phantom Phixer". Sorry guys about the wet field jackets, and caps, we really did try to fix those leaks!! Never will forget the sound of the start carts, "awesome, just like the aircraft". I retired in l978.

MSgt (Ret.) Robert E. (Bob) Huff
E-Mail: Elaine_and_Bob@excite.com

Wed, 11 Oct 2000 10:13 SSgt. Marshall O. Johnson Writes: Hi! I'm Marshall Johnson and was with the SR-71 program at Beale AFB from 1965 thru 1966 as a flight line mechanic with the 4200 OMS. What a great time that was even though at first there were no planes to work on. We built crew chief trailers to stay busy! Oh when the first planes did arrive, what a sight. This website's great. Keep up the good work.

SSgt. Marshall O. Johnson
E-Mail: marshj99@earthlink.net

Wed, 11 Oct 2000 11:58 John Horton Writes: I visited your SR-71 Website. My uncle was a flight engineer on the YF-12A project NASA did in the late '60's to mid '70's. My uncle's name was Victor Horton. He flew with Fitzhugh Fulton. My uncle Victor passed away about 5 yrs ago. I've known Fitz Fulton since I was about 10 yrs old. I would like to tell you my experience with the "Blackbird". It was in 1974. I was 11 years old at the time. My uncle invited my father (his brother) and I to one of his flights at Edwards Air Force Base. We were on the tarmac when the engines were being started. Fitz Fulton waved to me and motioned me to walk up the ladder to the cockpit. He motioned for me to climb in and sit on his lap while the engines were being started. We then followed her while she taxied to the runway and we drove to the point on the runway where she would lift off. I have never heard or felt a rumble like that in my life even with the ear protection we had on. Once she was out of sight we then went to the control room and "watched" the flight from there. Since my father was a radar specialist in WWII he was noticed watching the radar and politely escorted out of the room. Soon, I was escorted out and we were taken back out to the runway for the landing. It was a thrill to see both Fitz and my uncle Victor waving at us through the cockpit windows. We followed the bird back to the hangar and then were taken on probably the best tour anyone could experience. I sat in the cockpit of the X-15 and a B-52. On the way home, my father asked my uncle why we were escorted out of the control room and he said that part of the flight was classified. It was an experience I will never forget. I just wanted to share that with you. They made the 100th flight #935 in 1976. I can tell you that the aircraft was capable and actually flew faster and higher than was published. There has never been or ever will be an aircraft quite like the "Blackbird" because of the growth of technology with satellites and such. You have a very fine website and if you would like, I would enjoy hearing from you. Thank You.

John Horton

E-Mail: jhhorton@aeraenergy.com

Mon, 9 Oct 2000 06:45 Major (Ret) Bill DeHoff Writes:

Enjoyed your Web page.
I was stationed at Beale (1967-71) as an Avionics Maintenance Officer.
That was my first assignment in the AF and the best assignment that I ever had.

Major (Ret) Bill DeHoff
E-Mail: billdehoff@sprintmail.com

Sun, 8 Oct 2000 09:00 Sgt. Dan Macdonald Writes: Great site. My tour at Beale was from 1975-1979. I was a life support tech and was assigned to the 9th SRW. I maintained the flight gear for the SR-71 and U-2 crews used during training sorties in the T-38. I worked in the old alert pad facility and enjoyed working with the BEST PILOTS in the world. Special thanks to Capt. Judson for taking me on a T-38 incentive flight. It was a privilege to serve with all the exceptional members in uniform at Beale AFB during my tour.
Thank you!

Sgt. Dan Macdonald
E-Mail: Acculease@juno.com

Sat, 23 Sep 2000 15:43 SSgt Rickie McDonald Writes: Being a part of the SR-71 program was one of the greatest experiences of my life. The training I received has helped me to consistently perform at the highest levels in the private sector. I was stationed at Beale from '73 to '78 working in the 9 AMS SAS/AP shop. I think I probably spent half that time in Kadena. What an eye-opener for a child. But, under the tutoring of such greats as Russ Kieter, Larry Tuttle, and Bill Dyer I made it through unscathed. This is a great site and I hope to hear from more of the best. At least that's what they told us.

SSgt Rickie McDonald

E-Mail: rickie_mcdonald@hotmail.com

Sat, 23 Sep 2000 07:22 (former) Sgt Mark McLaughlin Writes: I was pointed to this awesome site by another former HABU, (thanks Bryan ), and have spent the last couple hours remembering my time in the 9th. It's been a helluva trip down memory lane. I can almost smell the JP-7 soaking my clothes after walking under a wing :) I'd like to say hey to Larry LeBlanc & Lou Pagnoni, who also signed here, and everyone else I knew and worked with and befriended in the mid 70's at the ranch & the rock...Anybody up for All-U-Can-Eat Fish & Chips at Sam's By The Sea???

Sgt Mark McLaughlin

E-Mail: madmac56@bellsouth.net

Fri, 22 Sep 2000 23:33 SRA Bradley Nickell Writes: I worked at the 9th SRW / PSD at Beale AFB, CA from 1989 until 1992. I worked as a technician on the U-2/TR-1 and the SR-71 with the full pressure suits, parachutes, survival kits and other life support type equipment. I remember there was a rivalry between the different "shops" in maintenance of the aircraft and PSD. Some of the people I worked with and I am certain that some of the people that worked in the maintenance shops didn't seem to be very open minded about each other's respective units and their importance in the support of the missions. It was a curious thing to me since we were all working for the same thing that the rivalry was there. I didn't stay in contact with any of the people that I worked with when I separated, I went on to a completely different quasi-civilian career. However, I would welcome contact with a lot of the people that I worked around as we developed some real good relationships working in the environment that we did. I look back on my experiences with the unit and mostly have good memories and enjoyed the time I spent there.

SRA Bradley Nickell

E-Mail: zzzoooyyy@aol.com

Fri, 22 Sep 2000 21:11 Capt. George R. Mondie Writes: Was at Beale from 4/68-6/70. Would be interested in contact with anyone who worked in the photo reconnaissance shop or knows people who did, especially any info on Lt. Col. John Paulman.

Capt. George R. Mondie

E-Mail: mondie@airmail.net

Fri, 22 Sep 2000 17:19 Sgt Bryan Pollock Writes: I worked on the Habu's Autopilot from 1974-1977. Every time I see a picture of the SR-71 it brings back the memories of Habu Hill, MA1 alley and the pride of being able to work on a legend.

Sgt Bryan Pollock

E-Mail: bryanp@rfprotocircuits.com

Tue, 5 Sep 2000 05:39 SSgt. Hilda Rodriguez Writes: This was the most awesome airplane I ever worked on. I would like to find all my friends who were assigned to the FMS Electric Shop, especially Frank Carbullido and Mr. John O'Neal.

SSgt. Hilda Rodriguez

E-Mail: hgrod@up2me.com

Tue, 29 Aug 2000 23:58 CMSgt Edwin Rodriguez Writes: Great SR-71 web site. Beale was my first duty station and the SR-71 was the first aircraft that I worked. I was at Beale from Jan 77-March 81. It has been the best assignment I've had in the 24 years that I have served in the USAF. I ultimately finished my tour there as crew chief on aircraft #964.... the best of the fleet!!

CMSgt Edwin Rodriguez
HQ PACAF/IGO
Aircraft Maintenance Inspections

E-Mail: Edwin.Rodriguez@hickam.af.mil

Sun, 27 Aug 2000 15:40 SSgt. Dennis Townsend Writes:

This is just a note to say I have moved back overseas to Rome Italy and Amsterdam
The Netherlands . Keep up the good Web site
Dennis R. Townsend At Beale from 1970 till 1972 in B flight (OMS)

My new email address is:

E-Mail: klmhabu@hotmail.com

Thu, 24 Aug 2000 13:16 Robert Sweeney, MSgt Writes: I was in the 9th SRW from Dec.,'69 to Oct.,'71 when I retired from active duty. I worked in Acft Records at Beale and Job Control OL. I would like to contact A2c Duffy who worked for me at Phu Cat AB, Vietnam and came to the 9th SRW at the same time as I did or anyone else who remembers me and cares to contact me.

Robert Sweeney, MSgt

E-Mail: s1249@qwestinternet.net

Thu, 24 Aug 2000 10:59 Sgt Lee R. Johnson Writes:
Member PSD unit supporting crew of the SR-71 from inception. Discharged November 1967. Would like information on the where-abouts of any PSD personnel from that period. Thank you.

Sgt Lee R. Johnson

E-Mail: Leeanddee@juno.com

Tue, 22 Aug 2000 20:46 MSgt Bob Rittenhouse Writes: Just stumbled across this great web page. Sure brings back a lot of good memories. My tour at Beale from '68 to '74 was the best of times. What a pleasure to work with such a great bunch of people. Thanks for a job well done.

MSgt Bob Rittenhouse

E-Mail: shabobr@worldnet.att.net

Tue, 22 Aug 2000 13:24 Maj. Joseph R. (Rod) Mitchell Writes: Had eight great years with the HABUs. Four at Beale, 1970-74 in the Recce Tech and four more as the IN at Kadena and Mildenhall between 1980 and 84. Fond memories of Sunday morning brunches, snorkeling north of Nago, Flying Tiger stews, and all the Mongolian barbecue in the world. Had some nice fog in Mildenhall. God, I hated that IRIS camera format. Would love to hear from any IN folk who are still breathing.

Maj. Joseph R. (Rod) Mitchell

E-Mail: rodmarti@worldlynx.net

Mon, 21 Aug 2000 15:14 MSgt (Retired) Steven K Bonnell Writes: Great web site!!! I was stationed at Kadena in 1975 - 1977, then did a quick stint on F-4's in the Philippines for 2 years. Then I went to Beale for two years and back with the SR-71/U-2 programs. What a trip...After numerous tdy's, sar's and air shows this quickly became the best part of my AF career. From Beale, I went to the Det in Osan Korea and did a year+ there with the U-2. Many many memories come back looking over these pages and it sure was good to see a lot of familiar names...Col Rich Graham was my re-enlisting officer at Beale for my second re-enlistment. Just looking at a photo in my office, I see names like Rich Graham, Don Emmonds, Tom Pugh , Tom Keck, Bob Crowder, Jim Blackthorn, Tim Shaw, and Ray Ellis, All SR-71 Crew members that I got to know well while working the "Habu". I was stationed in the Instrument/INS/Automatic Flight Control systems as an AFSC specialist but learned so much more. All the memories from getting arrested (all charges were dropped) for bar-b-queing hot dogs while burning up condemned lockers on the barracks roof top during a typhoon, (Ahh, the look on the fire fighters face when he came rushing out and I asked him if he wanted a hot-dog) to the TDY's to England and the London trips...Times never to be forgotten...Keep up the great work and I will be visiting often...Kudos to all you Habu's out there...

MSgt (Retired) Steven K Bonnell

E-Mail: skbonnell@yahoo.com

Sun, 20 Aug 2000 19:15 Sgt. C. Hettel Writes: I was a 207X1 (Morse Systems OP) stationed at RAF Chicksands , England which provided flight support to the SR-71 Blackbird. Although I would love to tell a lot of experiences with the Blackbird's missions, I am not allowed to talk about them. I carried a Top Secret SBI clearance and probably would make some Air Force or Gov't Agency sweat a little somewhere so I won't. I just want to say it made my enlistment in the USAF glorious!!!

Sgt. C. Hettel

E-Mail: indyohio@mindspring.com

Fri, 18 Aug 2000 09:44 David J. Mobley (dependent) Writes:
I am another son of TSgt James C. Mobley (Beale AFB 1966-1968). Although I was too young to understand the significance of my dads' assignment, I will never forget the sense of pride he instilled in us regarding the SR-71 Blackbird.

I still can hear the voice of a 6 year old telling friends and relatives that he came from Beale AFB, Ca. "Home of the SR-71". Like my brother, I would like to thank all the men and women associated with the SR-71 and this web site.
David J. Mobley (dependent)

E-Mail: dmobley6@hotmail.com

Editors Note: David's brother Courtney has an entry further down on this web page dated Sat, 29 Jul 2000

Tue, 15 Aug 2000 16:46 TSgt Daniel Freeman Writes: At Beale, 84-95, Chief Metals Technology, (Machine Shop / Welding Shop), 9 MXS, 9 FMS. Rebuilding forward by-pass doors, Wow! What a job, The engineers could not figure them out. But we did them good. Even though we had to stray from tech data.

TSgt Daniel Freeman

E-Mail: freemansr71@hotmail.com