SR-71
ALMA MATER
RECOLLECTIONS
FROM THE PAST
Guest Book Entry's for 2001
SR-71
ALMA MATER
RECOLLECTIONS
FROM THE PAST
Guest Book Entry's for 2001
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..
Mon, 31 Dec 2001 01:02
Jeff Moore Writes:
My dad worked on an SR71 ground crew. His name is Gerald "Jerry"
Moore.
He left the Air Force as a SSgt & spent time at Beale and in Okinawa.
I was just wondering if you or anyone remembers him.
Thanks,
Jeff Moore
Email: jcjmoore@gte.net
Sun, 30 Dec 2001 22:58:
Don Pugh, TSgt, Ret Writes: I had never heard of the SR-71 until I was in Tech School, learning
Avionic Sensor Systems. Once I did, I never thought I'd have the chance to actually work on it. I was the last one in class to receive my
assignment and was surprised that I was going to get the chance of a life time. However, my arrival at Beale was less than
pleasant and left me in doubt when I tried to report for duty. The AMS orderly Room told me I needed to report
to OMS, and the OMS orderly room told me that I needed to report to AMS. After a lot of confusion, AMS lost the toss and they had to take me in.
I was assigned to the SLR shop and I began living the dream. I was there when Pete Fisher went "Bats". My brother now owns my old Barracuda the Pete
stenciled "Bat Approved" on the rear window. And many were the night that I partied at Chuck Walton's house. As for "SR" memories, I'll never forget
the thrill of sitting in the rear seat with the canopy closed and the systems all lit up. I left for Korea shortly after that and didn't see the SR again
until I was stationed in England from 86 to 91. While Mildenhall was doing repairs
on their runways, the SR was parked at Lakenheath. I requested and got permission to go out and video tape the SR from taxi to launch. I can still
see the tower using the flashing Green lights that indicated they were cleared for take off. The only regrets I have are that I didn't get enough pictures of
the places I worked and the great bunch of people I worked with.
Don Pugh, TSgt, Ret
Email Updated April 01, 2005
Email: donrpugh@yahoo.com
Sat, 22 Dec 2001 23:14
Billy Rohm Writes: I'm sad to announce that Don Hornbrook, one of the first
crew chiefs , Master Crew chiefs, in the organization passed away this morning, 22
December 2001. I grew up on Lark Drive, just up the road from Hornbrook, went to school with his daughter. He was kind of a grumpy old fart, I
thought. It's just been in the last few years I came to know him well, to meet the person he really was, to listen to his stories from driving
Mrs. McCarthur (the General's wife) around Japan to the "international statue
incident" (still in a backyard in Yuba City!!) Don was 72 and his memory was clear and sharp. With great pride he
remembered all of the guys from the early days until he retired. Clearly, his involvement with the SR-71 was the highlight of his career.
His love and respect for God, the aircraft, the people he worked with and his career in the United States Air Force was with him until
the end.
Billy Rohm
Email: rohmpm@succeed.net
Mon, 24 Dec 2001 00:44
Tony Bevacqua (Forwarded Message) Writes: Jim
(Kogler) is in Rideout Hospital, Marysville, CA, being treated for a brain
tumor. Right now they are trying to reduce it with dex...something. Can't (?) do anything more until after Christmas. He is in room 403B (530)
749-4300. I just talked to him and got the info provided to you from him. Please pray for his recovery. Thanks a lot.
Tony Bevacqua
Email: tonysru2@otn.net
Mon, 24 Dec 2001 20:06
John T. Dinubilo, CMSGT, USAF, Ret. Writes: Those big, beautiful black-birds that launched from Beale AFB had to get
depot-level maintenance from somewhere. That "somewhere" was the Skunk Works at Palmdale, CA. The Air Force PSD folks who inserted,
launched, and recovered SR-71 maintenance flights out of Palmdale were
from Edwards AFB, CA. The PSD folks from Edwards would work along side civilian and/or NASA technicians for these missions.
Edwards AFB had a complete operations section for SR-71 support and also ran the Air Force Full Pressure Suit Depot for Air Force and Navy
operations for aircraft other than the SR-71. (The PSD folks from Beale had world-wide TDY requirements to support SR-71 operations.
The PSD folks from Edwards had to go to Corpus Cristi, TX, once in a while to support Navy special operations using AF full pressure suits. Tough
duty...)
Three to five times a week a crew from the Edwards AFB PSD would travel to Palmdale to suit-up, insert, and launch an early morning SR-71 flight.
Some times, on a typical maintenance or training flight, the mission would RTB back to Palmdale. Some times the mission would go directly to
Beale AFB to enter operational service. Some times the mission would launch, the Edwards PSD folks would be relieved of duty, and the bird
would be recovered elsewhere by other technicians. The Edwards PSD folks did a superb job for many years in support of theSR-71 program. Hats off to them...
John T. Dinubilo
CMSGT, USAF, RET
CEM, Edwards AFB PSD
'78 - '80
Email: Bigjohn1@cwnet.cam
Mon, 24 Dec 2001 03:30
Greg Holder Writes:
I miss it terribly. Nothing like doing something that had such an impact on our lives. I don't think I'll ever know the full impact of our efforts. Some of my fondest memories are of crewing SR-71's and U-2.
If you remember me feel free to e-mail me. GREG
Greg Holder
Email: gholder1002@cs.com
Sun, 23 Dec 2001 13:35
Gary D. Cibart (formerly SSgt) Writes:
Started with the U-2's in 1974 and went to Beale AFB in 1976 when the two units merged. Have been to OL-AA, Det 1, Det 2, and many others I can't name. The best outfit anyone could ever be in.
I was with both airplanes for over 14 years.
Gary D. Cibart
Email: spyguy1310@aol.com
Sat, 22 Dec 2001 06:59
Ret. MSgt. Joe Mata Writes:
I got my turn to serve with the blackbird program during the following years. 1984 thru 1987 when I elected to retire. I was assigned to the Repair and Reclamation shop at Beale.
We spent many hours working on both the SR & TR1's.
Ret. MSgt. Joe Mata
Email: JASpectre@aol.com
Sun, 16 Dec 2001 10:35
SSgt Clayton Jenkins Writes: I was stationed at Beale AFB from 1967 until March 1970. I worked in the
9th FMS Engine Shop, I believe the shop chief was CMSgt Gaudet at that
time. I lived in both the old barracks and the newer ones over the by the chow hall. I had a roomie named Mungia who lived in Sacramento. I haven't
seen or talked with anyone from the old unit since I left California.
SSgt Clayton Jenkins
Email: Jenkinsca@navair.navy.mil
Tue, 11 Dec 2001 09:04
Sgt (E4) Henry Kunkle Writes:
I was with the 9rts from Oct. 68 till Jan. 70. I worked as a R404. with Sgt. Kasterson and I want to say "HI" to my old friends.
I hope to see you next year.
Sgt (E4) Henry Kunkle
Email: HenryKunkle@webtv.net
Sat, 8 Dec 2001 09:22 T.D. Barnes
Writes: I just now found this excellent web site. It certainly brings back old memories, which, as I age,
means so much and makes me wish for a second chance to do more. I became aware of the A-12 activities at
Groom while employed as technical advisor and later as station manager of NASA's Beatty Station of the
NASA High Range Tracking Stations for the X-15, XB-70, and Lifting Body flights. In 1965 we
participated in the speed test of the Blackbird. My awareness of something going on at Groom came from
our Mod-2 radar picking up skin track of some of the flights. We were also receiving interference on our
UHF communications channel with the X-15 pilots. When we complained, NASA investigated and was
strongly notified us that we weren't hearing "S...." and to not mention it again. I must have caught
someone's attention, because shortly thereafter I was recruited into a special projects group at Groom for
"Have Drill" and the early stages of "Have Blue". I was fortunate to get there in time to support the A-12
program as the project wrapped up and these excellent Machbusters retired to Palmdale. At the 50th
Anniversary of NASA, I enjoyed meeting the SR crews now flying the Blackbird for NASA. It is a great
honor to be a member of Roadrunners Internationale, however, instead of having a support role in the
Oxcart Program, I wish I could have been one of the mission pilots.
T.D. Barnes
Email: tdbarnes@area51specialprojects.com
Fri, 30 Nov 2001 19:07
SSgt Marvin Davis Writes:
Stationed at Beale from 1967-1970. With 9th OMS. Assistant crew chief
SR-71 #968.
SSgt Marvin Davis
Email: Marvdavis@AOL.com
Mon, 26 Nov 2001 08:56
A G 'Sam' Parkin, Squadron Leader, RAF (Retired) Writes: As a resident in Farnbrough, Hampshire, UK for the past 9 years, since I
left the Royal Air Force, I have only just found your web site whilst looking for some data on next year's Farnborough Air Show, where the
Blackbird arrived in September 1974. To find so many memories of the Blackbird's first visit to Farnborough is
wonderful, because on 1 September 1974 I was the RAF air traffic controller at 'London Military Radar' (London Mil) who was assigned that
afternoon to monitor and speak to Blackbird as she came into UK airspace off the Atlantic Ocean.
She was nearly at the end of her incredible speed record run, the end of which was a
point above the English Channel due south of St. Catherine's point, the southerly tip of the Isle of Wight just off the south coast of
UK near Southampton. My brief was to establish and maintain R/T contact with the aircraft's
captain and track the aircraft, until it crossed south abeam St Catherine's. I was then to hand the aircraft over to another RAF
controller based at 'Eastern Radar' at Watton in Norfolk, who was to take the Blackbird in a descending, decelerating left turn for eventual
landing. Once the speed-run was complete, and I had handed the aircraft over to 'Eastern Radar', I quit the control seat to go for a break.
I was told later that the arc of turn was not quite was as tight as expected and the Blackbird was well inside Dutch airspace before she
rolled out on a westerly heading coming back into UK airspace for final
recovery, but that is hear-say!!! I did, nevertheless, go to the Farnborough Air
Show that year to look at what had for me been just a radar return. She was magnificent and I just wish I had made contact with the crew at
the time. I sit now in an office, still in the ATC business, but sadly no longer
at the sharp-end of controlling, but with some happy memories of controlling the
Blackbird and an awful lot of other USAF hardware (F4, F111, KC 135) that was based 'this side of the pond' at the time.
Best wishes to all,
A G 'Sam' Parkin, Squadron Leader, RAF (Retired)
Email: sam.parkin@eurocontrol.int
Sun, 25 Nov 2001 15
Terry Wickham TSgt (Ret) Writes:
Hi! I am Terry Wickham, TSgt, Retired and an ex member of the famed Habu outfit. I was assigned to the 9th AMS in 1969. I was later in the Photo shop where I became NCOIC of the TEOC camera system. Thanks to a great Tech Rep...David Nolte, we were able to maintain a 98.6% reliability rate. I also had a great bunch of people working for me, which made my job a whole lot easier. I sure would like to hear from some of them. My best to a great bunch i.e. "The Habus".
Terry Wickham TSgt (Ret)
Email:
Sat, 24 Nov 2001 22:01
Gerald L. George Writes: I was assigned to the 9th Recon..Temp from the 456 FMS after serving a on
Operation Arc Light 1966...Served 4 years at Beale AFB with the 456 FMS as a Jet Engine Mechanic.. B52 and KC 135...would like to meet others who
were also with the 456 FMS as well...Gerald L. George....just retired from GE after 28 years as a Jet Engine
Inspector. My e-mail is seceret@pacbell.net
PS go to Marysville and Yuba City Often. My Wife is from there...
Gerald L. George
Email: seceret@pacbell.net
Sat, 24 Nov 2001 06:46
S/Sgt Melvin L. Bogard Writes:
I was assigned to the 4200 in March of 1965. Worked in the Com/Nav shop. I often recall the times I spent there. It was an honor and a privilege to be associated with such a marvelous machine. I was discharged and left Beale in December 1968. I was part of the first deployment to Kadena in early 1968(?).
S/Sgt Melvin L. Bogard
Email: bogard@ev1.net
Thu, 22 Nov 2001 13:21
CMS Fred King Writes: I just stumbled across your website and the only thing that comes to mind
is "fantastic." You have done a great job of putting a lot of memories of a lot of people together. I served in the 9 AMS SLR shop from 1972 to
1978 and returned after a tour at Zweibrucken, GE in 1981 until 1989. During my second tour at Beale, I was honored by also serving as Mission
Systems Branch Chief, acting First Sergeant of 9 AMS, PMEL Branch Chief and in the LG office of 14 AD where my getting promoted to CMS resulted
in my getting assigned to KI Sawyer, MI. I retired in 1990 and returned to Yuba City where I presently live with my wife and work as an
accountant at a local utility district. I wouldn't trade my experiences with the SR-71 and the people of the 9 SRW for anything. The aircraft
was a dream to work on (at least for my shop) and the mission was very interesting. There are a number of retired Habu's living in the area and
I enjoy running into them occasionally and telling a few "war stories." Your site has given me numerous e-mail addresses of folks I intend to
look up in the days to come. Thanks for the memories!
CMS Fred King
Email: pfking@syix.com
Thu, 22 Nov 2001 09
Former SSGT. Bill Duffy Writes: Spent '69-'72 W/the 9 OMS as a recovery team member/chief worked with
Billy Jack, Lee Pierce,
Billy Hill was recovery boss most of the time.
Spent more time off Beale than on---- How to live in a bad marriage, my way!!
Took the first Bird to Offutt for static display with a truly great gang including FMS
Herb Greathouse, AMS Tom
Dickerson ( a true nut case) but what a ball we had! Many side trips to Hill
AFB, Barksdale, U-Tapao. No one told me they drove on the wrong side of the street so after taking
the 55 passenger bus around the first turn there I was driving into oncoming
traffic. Trips to D-M, OL-8,etc. Remember getting my Run-up License and my first Engine run--- What a handful!
Remember the year we kept losing Birds while IFR-ing. Many hot summer days in the intakes doing bypass door
droop checks with a tech rep who drove a VW Baja Buggy- He kept laughing at me because I was soooo fat and was one of few who could squeeze into
the intake. I recall one of my first times at OL-* one very overcast morning a Habu went up and all but laid it over on it's back to get it thru a
hole in the clouds, Gorgeous! The early morn take-off from Hill AFB on a COLD overcast day and
the crew Lit the cans and OUR Baby was backed up by those beautiful snow covered mountains surrounding the base. After
the 9TH went to Spangdahlem AB Germany, ran into T/Sgt Melvin Perry there( he
and his wife were the most beautiful dancing team! Later ran into M/Sgt
Gene Mallory as he was passing thru. But after the 9th, the Air Force held
nothing for me so I got out and worked for years for NATO/SHAPE support Group
(US) all over Europe came back to the U.S. as my Dad was dying. Remember when Chief John Kelly painted his little car like a flag and was
told it was desecrating!, wouldn't fly in these times. In the words of CMS Paul Spratt That's it "Gents".
Still hear from former AIRMAN OF THE YEAR David Horn,
Ray Zacher, the Habu illustrator and M/Sgt Ret Bob Sweeney
among many other Habu's. Gotta get packed, my life's work takes me other places for better reasons these
days. Off to Israel, soon, then maybe Moldova, who knows! All my love to the most professional
people the Gov't ever had on it's payrolls. Nose up -Burners in 7th stage!
24 Nov 2001 13:58: OK, all you fellow HABU'S.... Only I know where the original 9 OMS Beale AFB dayroom picture of #950 in flight is and what was the white stripe around the nose all about? Say Have a wonderful Holiday season my friends of old, God speed to all,
Bill Duffy
Email: wmduffy2@juno.com
Mon, 19 Nov 2001 12:38
SRA Joseph DeLong Writes:
I spent 4 years associated with the SR-71 from 1982 through 1985 I was stationed at Beale AFB with the 9th AMS SLR group.
I also had a TDY to Kadena in '85.
SRA Joseph DeLong
Email: delong@bnl.gov
Sun, 18 Nov 2001 18:32
SSgt. Joe Satterwhite Writes: After completing tech school as a
43151C, I arrived at Beale AFB in the summer of 1966. Training in aircraft maintenance
just couldn't prepare anyone for their first sight of the Blackbird, and my first entry into
the hanger was absolutely awe inspiring. I wouldn't trade those (3) years for anything.
Made some good friends there, but hard to place many names, though I have kept contact with
Sgt. Rick Sexton through the years. His (name) recollections being better
than mine, I've mined his memories and can recall MSgt.
Reynolds, CMSgt. Gornik, CMSgt.
Turner, Sgt. Reiser, TSgt.
Person, SSgt. Jarvis, SSgt.
Nickerson, and SSgt. Bets. A1C Cheatheam and
Sgt. Paul Swartz lived in same barracks wing next to the
chow hall, as did A1C Lee (or was it Larry)? Stout. I've often wondered about Stout, as
he and I shared a love of art. A1C John Neal was a roommate of mine, and we did hit
the Kabuki Lounge in Yuba City a few times. John stayed in Marysville, and owns an
aircraft facility. It was good to hear from him again after so many years. I put in for S.E.A. in '67, made SSgt., and was a Crew Chief on the F4-C in
Ubon, Thailand, for my last year in service. I would enjoy hearing from anyone else that
shared those times.
SSgt. Joe Satterwhite
www.satgraphics.com
Email: jsatt@satgraphics.com
Tue, 23 Oct 2001 12:34
Ray Zacher Writes: I was stationed at Beale from November 1969 to August 1973. I was in the
9th SRW in wing headquarters. My work was in the old SAGE bldg. as an Illustrator. Two TDY's to Okinawa. What a privilege to be assigned to
this special outfit (although, being pretty young, not fully appreciating it). Some names remembered:
Msgt. John Harmon; TSgt. Jay
Brazell; LtCol Hewitt; LtCol
Wilt; LtCol Ball; Maj.
Ward; Maj. Larry Gindlesperger; LtCol
Gilliland; LtCol Steve Harrop; SSgt Vic
Roth, and several others.
Raymond Zacher
Tue, 13 Nov 2001 11:57 Ray Zacher Writes:
Hello! I made the original "Habu" picture back in 1971 for Bill
Duffy. He recently sent me a print of it that I have framed. But before framing, a friend of mine scanned it for me and here is one of the files.
This is a jpeg format file which is small enough for most e-mail servers. It can be enlarged and printed out.
More names come to mind when I worked in the "vault" in the old SAGE bldg: Sgt.Glenn
Sweet; SSgt. Art (Lump) Lombardi; SSgt. Jerry
Miller; Sgt. Mark Kramer; SSgt. Bill Miller - all fellow illustrators. Also,
Sgt. Ernie Kraus; MSgt. Charles
Aldous, SSgt. Dominic Creazzo; Sgt. George
Pinson; LtCol. McCall (whom I owe a debt of gratitude for driving me to the
hospital when having a kidney stone attack in 1972 - thank you!); TSgt.
Charlton. Some of the guys in the barracks: A1C Dave
Cheney; A1C Rob Graves; A1C
Greg Lund; Sgt. Braun; Sgt. Joe
Bane; Sgt. Beaven; Sgt. Duane Herrman (sic);
Sgt. Lee Fong; SSgt. Dave Burk (my longtime roommate - where are you?);
Sgt. Ed (Jeep, Aerojet) Arrioja, TSgt. Dave
Heslop; SSgt. Pete Swanson. And last, but not least -
SSgt. Bill Duffy - hello, good friend! Great memories of the many shenanigans pulled at Kadena - Shooting
fireworks at the cabbies from the 2nd floor balcony, pulling off "sapper" attacks
with fireworks in the barracks, Rolling bowling balls and hitting the G.I. cans in the hallways and making a
tremendous amount of racket in the process! By the way, is the concrete lion/tiger still at Beale? It was stolen and
flown to Beale in 1969, I believe. Also, showing up at work with gargantuan hangovers (my job was not critical to the safety of the mission, thank
goodness!), and so many others. And last for now, the hot dog snack bar at the flight line at Kadena and using the Autovon line to call home (and
getting cut off without warning)!
Sgt. Raymond Zacher
Email: RZACHER@SMURFIT.COM
Editors Note: The following "Habu" artwork is shown in small format for this web page. Download the large image or the smaller one for your personal use. Thanks goes out to Ray Zacher (Illustrator) and Bill Duffy for sending it to us.
Small Image-640X480, 67kb (Shown below)
Fri, 9 Nov 2001 17:26
Bouke (Bob) Meyer Writes: I feel very fortunate to have been stationed at Det 4, 9th SW, RAF
Mildenhall, UK. I worked on the generators that supported the photo
processing vans. During a 6 month shut down of the RAF Mildenhall runway I was lucky enough to supply direct electrical ground support to the
Bird. In late 89 I got permission for an early release from active duty (Thanks,
Thomas J. Henichek) ,to pursue a job with Lockheed, working on the SR. Within weeks of the approval, the program
was cancelled.
Bouke (Bob) Meyer
Email: bobmeyer@ameritech.net
Thu, 8 Nov 2001 13:50
TSgt Colman W. Beulah (Ret.) Writes: Arrived at Beale in Oct. 1974 and was assign to the Photo shop later move
to squadron training and worked with Bob Carmody. Was selected for the
initial PCS package to Det.1 as sensor shop chief. Chuck Walton
, Dave Leach, Sheffy
Fields, Mike Herrero, Howie
Fallis, with out you guys it would have been tough. Thanks. Wag Sherrow you were a great boss. Things
that are fond memories, the softball games; Habu hill; driving taxis; the speed run with
Widdiefield and Sullivan
- New York to London; the start cart's two 255cu in engines tied in series; the dog and pony show for the
VIP'S; the spider dolly; the long tanker rides to and from the Ranch; Habu fish hook story;
sensor/photo load changes my favorite. Coming over Habu hill and seeing all those
Japanese with cameras waiting for the launch; the Habu bowling team. I guess the one memory of all, was when
the a/c came back early the hanger floor had been mopped because of the JP7 leaking from the a/c when parked. When they taxied the a/c into the
hanger as usual and applied the brakes the a/c started to slide through the hanger and everyone ran to the a/c trying to stop it.
Man! we must have been crazy but we did stop it. Another foot or so the pitot tube
would have been in the blast shield behind the T- hanger. Then there was that awesome
sound of engine run up. I am thankful to have had the privilege to work with the best the AF had to offer in Enlisted and Officers.
I remember my first crew debrief and said "Sir". The pilot said don't say
Sir, it's you guys that are important. You take care of my butt. Most of all I'm
proud to be a Habu. Looking for some old friends Barney
Hunter, Jose Carmona, Terry
Wickham, Stuzman, Ed
Martin, Dave Nolte or other Photo/SLR troops-1974 to 1982.
To Chuck Walton and David Leach I knew what LTB meant. HABU forever.
Colman Beulah
Email: beulahc@katebww.com
Thu, 8 Nov 2001 08:17
SSgt. Richard Craft Writes: Hi all Just ran into this sight looking for some pictures. What a great
idea. I was proud to serve at Beale AFB in the Hydraulics shop from 1971 to 1979. During the first few years I worked on B-52 and the KC-135.
The 456th Bombardment SQ was changed to the 17th Bombardment SQ in 1976 an then disbanded. We all became the 9th Recon wing and the B-52 left
and was replaced by the U2. We all joined with the SR-71 Hydraulic shop and started our share of TDY' to England and Japan. I remember
Ms Getty, Gayle, Floyd, from IFR which also combined with Hyd. I can see peoples
faces but I can't seem to remember names. I have stirred a lot of good memories. I am proud to have served with all of you on the most unique
aircraft in history with the most dedicated men and women of the Air Force. After the service I was hired by McClellan AFB as a Hydraulic
Tech. After the base closure and retiring in 1999, I am still working with McClellan Park (county of Sacramento) and Hamilton-Clarke
Industries. God Bless You all.
Richard Craft
Email: psrcrafty@yahoo.com
Wed, 7 Nov 2001 23:37
George Vojvodich Writes: WOW, I have heard that there was some info. on the net but when I
meet an air force Major at a car dealership today and we started revisiting the air force
and talking about C-130's and the good old F4C in Viet-Nam it really got me thinking about the days I spent in the
air force as a young kid; my brother telling me about a super bird that he test
piloted. As you may have guessed I was really fired up when the Maj. told me how to find
this info. on the net. I had a great time on a elk hunt with my brother and another test
pilot name Jack Latten along with the flight surgeon for that group of men. All I
can say is WOW!!!! You all did a great job with the program that you were working
on. I never had much info. on the black bird, but I really was impressed to see the
picture of my brother (Mel Vojvodich) and your web
site, please keep up the good work.
Thanks Again
George Vojvodich
Bradenton,Fl.
Sat, 27 Oct 2001 21:40:42 -0700 (PDT)
LTC Joe Rabe Writes: In 1968 I was a SGT assigned to Beale AFB outside of Marysville CA. I was
a USAF Air Traffic Controller, assigned to the Beale Air Port Tower. That summer I was to meet Robert Kennedy and see him killed two weeks later.
We also Lost DR. King and suffered the anti-war demonstrations. Three great and exciting things I remember from 1968 were the Apollo mission to
circle the Moon, a girl named...I can't recall her name after all these years but I remember HER, and I remember The Blackbird! It was and is to
me the most beautiful bad ass aircraft I ever had the honor to work...The hanger doors opened, the Blackbird taxied out made a left turn as the
crew chief saluted. Ground called "...is cleared above flight level eight zero thousand, flight planed route, contact tower on three
forty six point zero, have a good flight" Local control would say upon contact "Blackbird max performance climb is approved, cleared for take off" The
mighty engines roared into after burner, the tower windows shook and we could feel the vibrations as the ship rotated and
climbed almost straight up.
LTC Joe Rabe
Email: josephrabe@aol.com
Tue, 23 Oct 2001 22:04:18
William "Wild Bill" Duffy Writes: Lee, am totally impressed with your
web site, of course Who would expect less from the illustrious Sgt. SAC!. Great to hear about you this late in
life, Bill Duffy.
Thu, 25 Oct 2001 15:16: Bill Duffy
Writes: I can't believe that this wonderful resource is your work or better said, Who else
could've pulled it off. It has brought me great joy contacting the other Habu's and Bealies. Spoke recently with
Bob Sweeney, Dave Heslop
, and Dave Horn, I have remained in touch with some
others over the years and one of them found your (our) web site. Your work has been a Blessing to many and God bless you for your
efforts. Glad
you remembered my name! Went to Germany in '71 found it was another man's Air Force Got out,
went to work for Nato/Shape Support Group in Belgium, then Holland and Germany.
I did Italy, Spain, Libya, and Africa until I lost my Dad in the '80s then came back to
Florida. I am now enjoying life
north of Tampa near to my 9 Brothers and Sisters and all of their offspring. Having
dinner @ Mom's tonight (scallops) the big ones --We spoil each other! Gotta run might find something to do. Bill the Habu
Guru.
William (Bill) Duffy
Email: wmduffy2@juno.com
Wed, 24 Oct 2001 20:47
Sgt. Eddie Hickman Writes: I served in the 9th RTS photo maintenance shop from Feb 1967 until July
1970. I would like to say hello to Sam Lockridge,
Ken Kesterson, Len Dill,
Bill Langston, Hector Neria,
Walter Williams, Mike
Sonnenberg, Delmar Anthony, Joe
Klein, Joe Felder, Joe
Harrison, Gary Posey, Jose
Galvin, Bob Mocklin, Jim
Brown, David Sourwine, Jerry
Ingram, Sgt Dennison and Fred
Maloney. If I missed anyone, it's been a lot of years! Also hello to Ed Barfield and
Bruce Elias in power production.
All were good folks and I wish you well.
Sgt. Eddie Hickman
Email: eddiewdeb@alltel.net
Tue, 23 Oct 2001 21:45
TSgt Ronald Schlenker Writes:
Project Blue Feather Edwards AFB 1965-1968 and 4200 OE&T Beale AFB 1968-1973.
Mon, 29 Oct 2001 22:20:30 -0800 (PST) TSgt Ronald Schlenker Writes: My name is Ron Schlenker TSGT Ret.- 1976 at Barksdale AFB, LA. I was assigned to the 4200 OT&T at Edwards AFB from 1965-1968 Hyd shop SAC project Blue Feather. At this time we didn't have any SR-71's to work on. We were all assigned to AFSC/SAC/ADC together. We work on the YF-12, three were built 934/935/936, these were all metal no stealth like the SR-71. The people that we had in the SAC Hyd shop MSGT Dickey/MSGT Cain/MSGT Jones/TSGT Hopkins/SSGT Esestes/SSGT Rogers/SSGT Moseley, I was a SSGT at this time also. Do any of you guys know these troop's or worked with them? We didn't have any tech data at this time, we used prints and word of mouth. Some of the names that were used at this time were Buick Start Cart/Hyd Mule/Hot Gig/Tab Cart/N2 Bottles/Hyd service Cart/ADS/L&R-A&B systems. I have so many stories to tell but don't have enough room for them at this time. Will write more later. HABU
Tue, 6 Nov 2001 12:01:57 -0800 (PST) TSgt Ronald Schlenker
Writes: I was assigned to Edwards AFB in May 1965. (SAC project Blue Feather) At
this time we did not have any SR-71. We were all assigned to the 4200
OE&T Sq. With no SR-71's we worked along side with AFSC,SAC and ADC, YF12's. They had three YF12's
#934,#935 and #936. We had little tech data at the time,
everything was word of mouth or Check Lists. I remember one time with had a rudder servo change on the YF12 and the little tech data we had at the
time said to torque the hydraulic line's in (inch pounds). After about the 6th time of changing these metal
seals at a cost of about $600.00, AFSC
MSGT Hawkins, hydraulic shop supervisor, called the Lockheed people to find out why these
seals did not hold up to the pressure. When ask how much torque was applied to the fittings, we were told it should be in
foot pounds. So this was the
first in many of our encounters in the test program. I have many more to tell but ran out of space. Ron HABU!
Fri, 9 Nov 2001 08:31 Story #2 While we were waiting for our first SR to work on, we spent a lot of time at building #1810 with the YF12's . Most of the time we just sat around and played cards and chess. Some of you guy's who were there will remember those close chess games. Anyway when there was work to do, we had long hours working out problem's on those YF12's. At this time, whenever a hydraulic line or unit was opened we had to hot gig the bird. The information we had was to bleed the system for about one hour and then hot gig to about 600 degree's, disconnect and bleed another hour. All this took about 4 to 5 hours. Later on in the program, we found out we only had to bleed the system until all the air was free. Can you imagine setting in that cockpit all those hours.. back and forth with that control stick, those hydraulic mule's were singing a hot tune when we got through.
Story #3 In July all SAC people started school on the SR, we had to go down to Palmdale plant #42 everyday. WE rode this bus that would pick us up at the
quick-pack store in the housing area. On the way down we would play spade's and some of those
game would get a little heated and on the way back we would pick up where we left
off. One morning our bus was broke and we had to break up in small group's to ride in
these van's. There was about 9 of us in this van and we were running late. We always
went out the south gate to school . This one MSgt, whom I will not name, was a little
hung over from the night before. Anyway, he fell asleep on the back seat on the way
down. Sgt.O'Neal was driving and up head of us was this guy along
the side of the road with this German shepherd dog. The dog started coming at us right in the middle of
road. Sgt Zorre's yelled at Sgt O'Neal "Don't hit that dog he will turn this van over." So, Sgt
O'Neal hits the brake's and the van started to slide sideways, down the bank we go
and up the other side across the road down the other side up the bank back up to the
road making a "180" and the van is heading in the same direction. At this time we didn't
have any seat belt's in the van and everybody was holding on to the seat's.
After everybody checked their pant's, this Msgt that was in the back seat, slept threw the whole
thing. When he woke up he ask why the van had stopped. We all had a big laugh when
everybody settled down. More stories later. Ron HABU!
Mon, 12 Nov 2001 20:54 Story #4 While going to SR school at plant #42 they only had at that time 5 proto-built
SR-71's. 950/951/952 Lockheed worked on for testing and 953/954 AFSC tested for
instrumentation and flight control. SAC did not have any A/C assigned yet, #955 was
going to be the first production SR built for testing at Edwards and the 4200 OE&T
would start the long road in testing, for ground crews and flight crews. This was around
the fall of 1965. MSgt Benjamin was going to be crew chief for A/C 955 and everyday
while at school we would go down at brake time to the production line at the plant to
see how far along they were on #955. Finally the day came for the first flight for
#955 and I had the privilege to be on the launch truck for that historic day
when #955 would record it's first hr's of flying. I think that #955 was one of the last few SR's that was
flying before they cancelled the program all together. I think that first flight for
#955 was a little over 1 hr. 1965 was a long time ago and looking back at that moment in time was
the start of something that no other A/C in the world could ever come close to. Ron
HABU!
TSgt Ronald Schlenker
Email: RON25@msn.com
Mon, 22 Oct 2001 12:09
MSgt (Retired) Robert F. Papaik Writes: Not being of the 9th generation, I would like to know if there is an
organization for the "Roadrunners" of the 1129th Special Activities Squadron? I spent 3 wonderful years at the "Ranch" and worked with
some very outstanding personnel. My immediate bosses were Colonel
John R. Kelly, and Colonel Amundson. I also worked with
Major Culp and Major Gugin and with my buddy
MSgt Daryl Ziegler. Zig and I had the responsibility of insuring that flight reports for
the bird were transmitted immediately following each test flight, so if a test was scheduled for Friday, we would draw cards to see which
of us would remain on site to transmit the flight report. As anyone associated with the SR-71 knew, a 9AM flight could mean 3 or 4PM, because
it had a temperamental soul. It was a great assignment.
MSgt (Retired) Robert F. Papaik
Email: bbcuracoa@aol.com
Thu, 11 Oct 2001 15:10
AT3(USN) Rich Paton COM/NAV/ECM/ TECH Writes: Editors
Note: (This email from Rich is quoted here for members of the Blackbird family.
He is not associated with the Blackbirds but I found his recollections amusing.)
I realize that I'm "out of my neighborhood" here, being an ex-Navy puke,
but I did chance to enjoy a short, but intense and memorable Blackbird experience. It was the Summer of 1972, when my A-7E squadron VA-147 and
our sister outfit VA-146 had just moved our 350 or so personnel, our aircraft, and ALL of our property (from tools to spares to pencils) from
Lemoore NAS to Fallon NAAS for several weeks of "war games" on the range there.
We had just wrapped up three or so "all-nighters" unloading semi's, humping all the gear about, and getting it in place in a huge hangar
situated somewhere at the fringe of the OPS area. It was about 10:00 A.M., when the frenzied word
came out of nowhere that we had two hours to get ALL our stuff out, and pulled back at least 1/4 Mi. from the hangar!
An SR-71 was bingoing into Fallon due to a mechanical problem, and would be occupying the hangar.
We were in the middle of checkout & ordnance loading when all this hell broke loose. I was busy
tossing our stuff onto flatbed trucks when an officer came up and said "Have you driven one of those, sailor?",
pointing to a fully loaded "bomb train", a tug with six heavy four-wheeled trailers loaded with pallets of fresh, unassembled 1000 &
2000 pounders. I replied "Yes, Sir". He then said "OK, start it up, and BACK it OUT of here, one half mile minimum, don't try to turn around. One
half mile, like right ^*%%&#% NOW, Roger? (!!!) I very nervously struggled with the mother of all trailer backups (it
seemed like I was all over the place with that rig) and after an eternity had it clear of the area.
Later that evening after we were out of there we watched the Blackbird being towed to the hangar, from behind a barricade of police tape and
smudge pots. It was nearly dark, and of course we were all as curious as could be about all the happenings.
So here's the funny part...my shop buddy Dave S. sort of very lightly brushed against the barrier as he craned his neck to get a better glimpse
of the plane, and immediately the nearest of an ample group of MP's (well-armed) walked straight up to him, looked him right in the eye.
"Gentlemen, I have NO CHOICE in this matter. ONE MORE STEP FORWARD, AND YOU WILL HAVE HAD THE WEENIE!
We immediately apologized for the gaffe, and "retired smartly" from the secured area.
For all the hassle, I know us enlisted types were glad to have some excitement and "controlled chaos"
happening around there, to break up what would have soon become just another TDY flight-line routine.
AT3(USN) Rich Paton
Email: dr_electron@hotmail.com
Wed, 10 Oct 2001 18:01
Sgt Karl Beck Writes: I was stationed at Beale from 72-75 in the 9th AMS Photo shop, we had the
best bunch of guys I ever met, here's to Bill Aspelin,
Msgt Plank, Howie Phallis,
Bob Almy, Dave Luna, Mike Herrero ( I use to sit his little girl
Holly she would be over 30 now, boy how time flies), Tibo
Robles and SSgt Howlet. I would like to send a
special thanks to Maj. Gen. Halloran who saved me from certain doom and gave me an
Article 15 when others wanted more. If you read this General Halloran you may not remember me I was the
one who failed to reconnect the nose wheel well doors and ended up having to submit a change to the
T.O. Manual. I would love to hear from any and all who were there with me.
Sgt Karl Beck
Email: Sckeb@aol.com
Mon, 24 Sep 2001 04:41
S/Sgt Bruce S. Negro Writes: I was a Crew Chief on KC-135Q #58-0084 from 1976 - 1980 when I finally
left the Air Force. I was one of the original Beale Bandits. There are so many stories of this group of fine individuals that I would have to
take up many pages. One that really sticks out in my mind is one trip when we were at Kadena on TDY status. My Aircraft had "Static Alert"
Status one day for an SR Mission. It was a hot, muggy, sunny day as most are there. I had fantastic flight crews back then. We were all just
friends. The pilot fell asleep leaning against the nose gear of the aircraft with my OMS hat on. I was asleep in the copilots seat with his
cap on, the boom operator was in the navs seat when who pulls up but the BASE Commander. Seeing what was going on, he just shook his head and
drove on. Probably muttering obscenities to himself about those Beale People. Seems to be the reaction most of us KC crews got from the higher
ups when we went TDY. "Oh no, not that Beale Group again..." hahaha. We were a close knit group, and will cherish all those memories for the rest
of my life. I miss all the friends I made there, especially Sgt John W.
Scott and Sgt Robert Egnor. We were the 3 Musketeers back then, and I
have lost contact over the years. Anyone know of them or how to reach them, I would love to hear from you.
S/Sgt Bruce S. Negro
Email: Imcuzinb@aol.com
Tue, 11 Sep 2001 00:23
SSgt Alberto D. Reyes Writes: Crewed most of them
at Beale and Kadena We had good and bad times We got to enjoy those showers she gave us, nothing like JP7. For those who worked with me thank you,
Ichi Bon. We got her ready no mater what. We were ready to bring her back if need
be, no matter where she landed.
I would like to think that even now, I would recover, her if called upon.
Hi to all.
SSgt Alberto D. Reyes
Email: wlkng.clds@att.net
Sun, 9 Sep 2001 21:43
SRA Bryan T. Knox Writes: I rolled onto Beale in Mar. 85 assigned to the 9SRW Command Post as an Emergency Actions Controller (SAC Trained Killer). I think of those two and a half years often and of the hefty responsibility placed on a 18 year old kid, such as handling SR, U2, KC135, and T38
in-flight emergencies. Or waking Colonel David Pinsky up at two in the morning to inform him of
someone's stupidity. I also think of some of my former coworkers...Steve
Brunskole, Hank Garrett, Scott
Slack, Lynn Libengood, Lisa
Rung, Tom Woolard, Duane
Patterson, Dave Mimms. We can't leave out some of the Blackbird "groupies" like
Pat Valadez. (this should get a phone call out of her!). We can't forget some that have since passed like
Ray Schindler. I remember well the Clipper missions when I had planned on a good nights sleep on the console and the ADO
Col Jay Murphy would ring and wake us up to gain entry at 2a.m. (imagine that).
Well, this site has brought back a lot of pleasant thoughts that neither time nor line item
veto's can take away from us!
Let's hear it for the SAC Trained Killers!!!
SRA Bryan T. Knox
Email: bryant_knox@hotmail.com
Fri, 7 Sep 2001 15:08:03
MSgt Frank Woolson Writes: As a young Airman
stationed in the Fire Department at Utapao, Thailand, we received word of
a SR-71 crash off-base, 64-17969 (SR-71A) on 10 May 1970. We went to Ops to form
the convoy to the crash site. On entering the building, I came face to face with
the pilots, still in their pressure suits. I looked at them and nodded to them
and they nodded back. What a site that was, I will never forget. I would like to
get info or contact the pilot, then Major William E.
Lawson and his RSO, then Major Gilbert Martinez
to tell them that the young Airman was me. Also the Crew Chief Don
Person. Thank you. I am still serving with the California Air Guard,
129th ARRS, Moffett Field.
MSgt Frank Woolson
Email: fwoolson@prodigy.net
Tue, 4 Sep 2001 19:28
SSgt Tom Shaull Writes: I was an imagery interpreter PCS at Det1 9SRW from 1979 through 1981. I was
also TDY to Det1 in 1978 and TDY to Det4 in 1982, both time from the 544th at Offutt AFB.
I worked with many great people such as Sgt Gary Jackson,
Sgt Kevin Oaks, Sgt Lori
Cameron, Sgt Al Huggins, TSgt
Ed White and many, many others. I would be interested in hearing from other members of the Intel shop and Det1
who were there when I was. I remember the "club" we built in the barracks day room. We had many a good
party there, not to mention the video "film festivals" we held during the typhoons!
Tom Shaull
Email: tjshaull@earthlink.net
Sun, 2 Sep 2001 18:32
Sgt. David Allison Writes: I was just 18 years old and fresh out of Tech School when I arrived at Beale in Jan 1975.
I was Assigned to the 9th A.R. Shop 1975-1979. Found the site and it sure brings back
a lot of very good memories! Spent time at Oki just like everyone else! Went to Mildenhall twice. Made 2 trips to Mountain Home and 1 to Ellsworth to change some tires. 22 years later I still have the part# of a Wheel and Tire
Assembly etched in my brain! I soon earned the nick name Darryl McPockets, I was in awe
every time the SR took off, instead of working I would stand outside the hanger with my hands in pockets watching that awesome sight go into the Heavens and god
knows where. I did not know then but that plane made a true man out of me. Every time
we went to OL-KA, or Mildenhall, or Osan with the U-2, or my side trips to Mountain-Home or Ellsworth, We were
respected, We were the ones who walked on water. Anything we wanted we got. When I left in July 1979 and started my working for a living, I told people I was in the 9th SRW. I was a
HABU. I then tried to tell them of some of our exploits oversees (not everything, some of them stayed right where we left
them). I was sure glad to find this website and go thru and remember some of the names. Some of the Names that did not make it but I remember
were Frank Layne, Bob
Parker, Charlie Pierce, David
Rolloff, Jim Bates and the workers in our bunch,
Kim Christensen, Jerry
Jensen, Bob Myers, Willey
Tagart, Al Simmons, Al
Castagna, "Mac" McDonald, and there were so many more.
I can't remember names just the nickname's.
I grew up on that Plane and will always remember the sound, the sight and the feel of the BEST AIRCRAFT EVER to grace the sky's. As long as it is still in our hearts, IT WILL NEVER DIE!
Sgt. David Allison
Email: scblue55@home.com
Tue, 28 Aug 2001 08:28
Maj Bob Dushlek Writes:
I was Asst. DCM at Detachment 1 from 74-77. Worked for Tom Estes and Abe Kardong. Worked with Bob Frazier, Art Enick and McDonald. Have many memories of the T House, FBIS, 318, and tanker rotations.
I remember the time MSET (Maintenance Standardization and Evaluation Team) showed up at the 376th and tried to inspect the Det.
Maj Bob Dushlek
Email: ispectre126@cs.com
Mon, 27 Aug 2001 06:31 MSgt Tom Joyce
Writes: Hello to all,
I worked as an instrument/inlet tech and NCOIC of the Inst Shop at Det 1 from
1979-1982, and at Beale from 1984-1987.
I really miss those days. I met a lot of great people both aircrews and mechanics. Hope some of you remember me and get in touch.-Tom
MSgt Tom Joyce
Email: thomasdjoyce@netmcr.com
Tue, 14 Aug 2001 14:56 Gerry Lewis
Writes: I served with the 9th RTS as a Computer Programmer Specialist at Beale AFB
from January 1968 until June 1971 with a TDY tour at Kadena AFB in 1969/1970. I have some pictures and memorabilia including the 1968
Unofficial Directory and Guide that was given to incoming airmen. I have attached a picture of 17969 for your collection; the Tom Cat's Kitten isn't
too clear but it's visible.
Regards to all my Blackbird friends!
Gerry Lewis
Email: gerrylewis@home.com
Thu, 9 Aug 2001 22:05
A1C Rick Gray Writes: I was stationed with the 9th OMS
until late1974. I was only 18 years old at the time. I worked in the non-powered
AGE shop. I used to service the T.E.B tanks on the aircraft. I remember the day we recovered
#964 back from the air show. I did two TDY tours to Okinawa during my time with the 9th. I couldn't get
rotated to the flight line due to my young age, so I took an out from the Air Force shortly after the air show. Sure have missed the flight line. I'm
47 now and travel the USA as a Construction Superintendent. I would really like to locate
Sam Holbrook of Atlanta GA.
Regards,
Rick Gray
(formally Airman first class USAF)
Email: rickgray55@earthlink.net
Wed, 8 Aug 2001 19:15 Sgt Rick Sexton
Writes: Arrived at Beale AFB in summer of 1966. Things were just getting started. The first "B" model had arrived but can not remember who was crew chief. I believe it may have been
MSgt Reynolds at that time later SMSgt
Reynolds. I can remember CMSgt Turner, CMSgt
Gornik, CMSgt Scott, MSgt
Polejewski, MSgt Tuccci, MSgt,
Patrick, MSgt Carey, TSgt
Darby, TSgt Person, TSgt
Spangler, SSgt Bledsoe, SSgt
Jarvis, SSgt Styles, SSgt
Delozier, SSgt Dodgins, SSgt
Mytko, SSgt Trevino, SSgt
Ridenour, SSgt Nickerson, SSgt
Aldridge, SSgt Bets, Sgt
Leccrochick, Sgt Reiser, A1C
Karns, A1C Webster, A1C
Johnson, A1C Pearl, A1C
Cheatheam, A1C Swartz, Sgt
McCraken, Sgt. Joe Satterwhite, SSgt
Perry, SSgt Ray Flat, SSgt Long and many more faces.
My sponsor was Tom ??? from Louisiana; can't believe I don't remember his name. Other memories from the first days. Long rides from front gate to barracks, long rides from
barracks to flight line, lots of long rides to any where. Many hours emptying drip
pans, tapping on the composite panels checking for separation, cooking screws, turning speed handle, pushing start carts, riding in the blue trucks, and many, many miles walking to and from run pad.
Great site haven't had these memories in many years can't believe I can remember these things. Lots of good times on the Yuba River and down town on "D" street.
Sgt Rick Sexton
Email: jrsexton@tennesseelawyer.net
Tue, 7 Aug 2001 06:01 Sgt. Michael G. Zervos
Writes:
I have already posted on the Alma Mater a few years ago.
I would just like to update my E-mail, and ask if anyone who knew
me during my years (76-80) as a Crew Chief or when I was a Tech Rep (82-90)
on the SR-71 to drop me a line or two.
Sgt. Michael G. Zervos
Email: greekz@home.com
Tue,
31 Jul 2001 18:55
SSgt James (Jim) Jackson
Writes: I was In the 9th AMS from Dec. 1969 to Sept 1971. I remember the
great guys I worked with on the second shift in the SLR shop. I have memories
of the long days we worked at OL-RK. I remember the Tech Rep "The Greek"
who worked with us. And how we all hated it when he said "Pulla Da Panel"
after a bird came back. I'd like find out what his name was and if he's
still around. I have found memories of helping with the "over" phone (Ham
Radio) at OL-RK. I also remember the shock when we lost the bird
over Texas and the damaged tail on the tanker. Also when the other outfit
closed down and the Photo guys transferred over to my shop.
SSgt James (Jim) Jackson
Email: jkjsysadm@aol.com
Sunday,
July 29, 2001 Sgt Cary Bergman Writes:
I was stationed with DET4/9SRW at RAF Mildenhall from June 96 - Jan 90.
I was a computer support person for the SR-71.
I would like to hear from anyone who was stationed there at that time.
Sgt Cary Bergman
Email: Cary.J.Bergman@EMCIns.com
Mon,
25 July, 2001 Hugh "Slip" Slater Writes: I
have not seen all the web pages but what I have seen has been very enjoyable
and brings back old memories. I was the Operations Officer at Area 51 for
two years and the Commander for the remaining two years. The tour at Area
51 was the most memorable of any during my 30 years of service. My flying
time in the A-12, YF-12 and SR-71, was very little compared to the guys
who flew operational. My flight time was all desert flying. I was with
an Agency U-2 program prior to been assigned to the Nevada Test Site and
after a short tour with the 20th TAC Fighter Wing in the UK returned to
Edwards AFB and joined the USAF/NASA YF-12/SR-71 flight test program. I
see Roger Andersen, President of Roadrunners
Internationale, provided details on our reunions which are primarily in
support of both Agency U-2s and A-12s. Your extensive work on the preceding
is a must for all the men who were involved.
Hugh "Slip" Slater
Colonel, USAF (retired)
Email: slips@prodigy.net
Editors Note: Colonel Hugh "Slip" Slater Commanded the Oxcart A12 detachment at Kadena, Okinawa under an operation called "Black Shield". The detachment arrived in Okinawa with 260 personnel and flew the first A12 CIA missions over Vietnam on 31 May 1967. A total of 29 Operational sorties were flown from Kadena. The A12's returned to Palmdale, California and remained in storage for a decade, with final disposition to museums in the USA. Colonel Slater and his Deputy, Maynard Amundson was awarded the CIA "Legion of Merit".
The CIA's activities on Okinawa are available at this URL:
http://www.wvi.com/~lelandh/kadena.html
Thur,
26 July, 2001 1:09 Art Fischbach Writes:
Kadena Okinawa 1967-1968, A12
Friends I would like to contact:
Jim Lacy
Corky Howard
John Byrnes
Art Fischbach
Email: fischbachaj@juno.com
Wed,
25 July, 2001 16:03 SSGT Bill Chandler
Writes: I was in the radio shop the fall of 1972. Such fun times.
Thanks for the nice website here.
I'll say Hi to some of the guys I worked with: Billy
Rohm, Tom Ducharme, Pete
Schlegel, Rick Anderson, Bill
Hyland.
SSGT Bill Chandler
Email: wcc@ia.net
Sat,
21 Jul 2001 11:10
MSgt (Ret.) Michael L. Freiberg
Writes: The 9th FMS squadron was my first posting after finishing basic
jet engine school at Rantoul IL. Spent the next 5 years working tear down,
test cell and finally flight line at Beale AFB. Moved to Iceland for a
year then back to Beale. Finally cross trained into a electronics field
and left Beale for 5 years. Then my new career sent me back to Beale but
this time to the PAVE PAWS radar sight on the hill. Sure felt odd to watch
the program being retired in the early '90,s. Anyone know were my partner,
Stanly Bebin is?. Lost track after he moved
to New Mexico.
MSgt (Ret.) Michael L. Freiberg
Email: bgfreib@aol.com
Wed,
18 Jul 2001 12:54
TSgt Richard G. Reinhardt
Writes:
I was assigned to the 9th OMS in 1966 until I retired in 1969. I will always have fond memories of my time associated with the Blackbird. I still have coffee mugs, hats and Patches from the 9th OMS. I would like to hear from other members that were at Beale during this time.
TSgt Richard G. Reinhardt
Email: reinhardt@iglide.net
Tue,
10 Jul 2001 16:33
A1C Joseph N. Waters Writes:
I was stationed at Beale AFB from Jan 1965 to Nov 1966.When I arrived at
Beale we were called the 4200 Recon Wing with no aircraft. Later that year
they renamed us the 9TH SRW, this was from my last SAC base in Mountain
Home, Idaho. I can still remember standing in formation, when we received
our first SR-71, what a beautiful sight. I was in the 9FMS squadron, as
an Airframe Repairman and enjoyed my year and a half working on these beautiful
aircraft. If I need a SR71 injection, I jump into my truck and drive 40
miles to the Virginia Air and Space museum in Richmond Va. and reminisce.
A1C Joseph N. Waters
Email: jwaters@ccsinc.com
Thu,
5 Jul 2001 06:40 Dorothy Madigan Writes: Reading over the messages on this
wonderful web site in the last few weeks has brought back many more memories
of Kadena. Jerry O’Malley’s birthday party at the FBIS club, when the party
coordinators took a Habu tie tack to the baker at KOOM for the SR-71 to
be reproduced for the cake. The baker said “No need,” and produced a perfect
replica of the plane on the cake. I’ve seen surprise parties before, but
that one, from the look on Jerry’s face, was a real shocker. Such a nice
man, and such an awful thing to hear that he and his wife were killed in
such a terrible accident, after their plane had landed and then went off
the runway.
There was the chaplains’ dinner when the chaplains sang and entertained, and the six-week stretch when the U-2 crew were at Kadena when their plane was being repaired - Jerry Chipman was such a good singer we wouldn’t let them leave in the evenings until we’d heard from him. Good people and a great time.
Dottie (Cabe) Madigan
Email: madigan2@aol.com
Wed,
27 Jun 2001 05:42
Charles "Chuck" Dodgins, MSgt
USAF, (Ret) Writes:
Arrived Beale AFB in August of 1965 and departed for SEA late 1970. I started with the HABU in '65 before Doug Nelson's delivery of the B-model. Always a 431 chock kicker, I teethed (3rd wiper) with Gene Patrick and Smitty on #956. Assisted (2nd wiper) on #957 and #959, crewed #980 (2nd OL 8) and before departing for SEA I was the CC of #958. I have a few unique OL-8 photos of the tail and nose door art that I have never seen in any periodical about the Black Bird. I also have some pictures of Buddy Brown, Col Minter in NCO uniforms at the OL trying their hand at "Crew Chief for a day". One picture of Hudson and Budzinski at the OL suited up with CC "Lon Countryman" in the background. One photo of yours truly coming out of the launch truck and the cleaning ladies scurrying about at the hanger. More to come.
Email: chuck.w.dodgins@lmco.com
Editors Note: Chuck's photos are posted on the USAF Kadena AB Operations Page at this URL: http://www.wvi.com/~lelandh/kadena2.html
Tue,
26 Jun 2001 17:09
Carl Bledsoe Writes: I arrived
at Beale in May of 1972 and worked in the ANS shop. Was there a little
over three months then it was off to Kadena for five years of rotation
between there and Beale. Loved living in barracks 108 with the constant
card games and drinking at all times of the day and night. Went to Griffiss
AFB New York in 1973 for flights to the Middle East. A great time also
to Mildenhall for the first flights out of there.
Left Beale in 1977 and returned to the program in 1986 at Kadena
till the end of the program.
The best times of my 26 Air Force career was with the Blackbird.
Carl Bledsoe
Email: cbled58969@aol.com
Tue,
26 Jun 2001 09:39
Sgt Duane Sharp Writes:
A GREAT site! A lot of names and places I haven't remembered for a long time... I am honored to have served with many fine men and women at Beale (and elsewhere) from 1975-78. My proudest moment was resurrecting 17960 from being canned and seeing her fly once again. I wish to thank everyone who's efforts made it happen. Even though it seems like it happened long ago in a galaxy far, far away...
Sgt Duane Sharp
Email: aegipan@msn.com
Sun,
24 Jun 2001 22:31 Christi Lyon Air Force "Brat" and Dependant Writes: I
consider myself to be "support personnel", as I supported my father for
the four years he was Crew Chief on the SR-71 B model. My father's name
is
Donald Lyon, and he held the rank of TSgt.
while at Beale A.F.B. 1970-1974. Over the years, we lived many places,
but none hold a candle to Beale. That part of California is steeped in
history, it's beautiful, and, it had the SR-71. The only airplane I have
ever seen everyone stop what they were doing to watch fly overhead. You
could hear her on the runway from Base Housing, getting ready to take off,
and I knew the flight path they usually took. I'd run outside, waiting
for that sleek black silhouette to go screaming over, trailing gold diamonds
in her jet wash, my body vibrating from the sonic boom and the windows
in the house behind me rattling.
My Dad was gone a lot in those four years. He missed birthdays, anniversaries, and even a Christmas or two in order to do his duty. Even back then, I looked at it this way: MY SR-71 had to be overseas for three months, my Dad was the best possible babysitter I could think of. I was 12 years old when we arrived at Beale, I am now 39, and the magic of what the SR-71 represents, and its technological beauty, still hold my loyalty, and fire my imagination.
And so, to the Habus.....
959-A
981-A
957 Lost 1968
956-B
Your long flight is over,
Your service is done,
But we know if we need you,
You'll return, just as true.
Christi Lyon, Daughter of Donald Lyon
Email: RoxyMacAran@aol.com
Sat,
23 Jun 2001 20:44
Richard L. Stafford, TSgt (Ret.)
Writes:
I worked at PSD and took care of the pressure suits and all the survival
gear and related training. This also included the altitude chamber. I was
stationed at Beale AFB, Ca. from Jan 77 to Nov 81.
Richard L. Stafford, TSgt (Ret.)
Email: LEOFUZ@AOL.COM
Sat,
23 Jun 2001 09:37 SSgt Gordon J. Wallace Writes: I was assigned to Fairchild
AFB from 78' to 82' and had a number of events that involved the SR-71.
I was assigned to the Base Fire Department when both events occurred as
a Firefighter/Crew Chief. One was due to an in-flight emergency when one
of the engines on the "bird" quit, the descent into Fairchild was a quick
one and upon landing no one could approach the plane because of the extremely
high radiant heat coming from the plane. It was over 90 degrees that day
and we could literally see the heat waves coming from the plane. The second
one was during the May 1980 air show, the SR-71 was only supposed to be
there for roughly thirty six hours and then depart. Mt. St. Helens erupted
that Sunday morning and forced the plane to stay for over three weeks.
I can remember SAC (in those days) being beyond extremely upset!!! From
the time the mountain erupted to when the ash fall began, the base had
almost five hours of time to evacuate this critical resource. Like others
that have posted on this web page, watching the SR-71 launch was an experience
beyond words. I stood on the flight line and watched the plane lift off
and then climb until it was out of sight. I used a pair of binoculars to
watch it after no one else could see it. I don't have a clue as to the
altitude when I finally lost sight of it but all I could see at that point
was a pair of bright blue afterburners against the sky. If the air crew's
that were involved in either instance wish to contact me, I'd be thrilled
to hear from them.
SSgt Gordon J. Wallace
Email: firecaptain@prodigy.net
Thu,
21 Jun 2001 12:38
SSgt Michael DiMarzio Writes:
Searching through these pages I didn't see the name of
CMSgt
Brummet, the AMS Mission Systems Branch Chief and (Chief of Dick's
Deli) during my tour in the 9th AMS. This man single handedly (ok with
collaboration with his wife...) bought more kegs of beer for AMS parties...What
crazy days! Maybe some OMS guys would relate some stories about the Mildenhall
mayors' Porsche...
This was the best job any 20 year old could of had, bashing heads
with a ramp rat trying to convince him that the SLR waveguides really were
pressurized through the canopy seals during a 3AM HHQ Pre-flight...Absolutely,
the 9th Wing had the best people I ever worked with, they are a credit
to themselves and the USAF for having selected them. To name a few-Bill
Brooks, Skip Ellinger, Jeff
U. (el rey de pedos...jeje!),
Rich Beaudry
(as blind as he was, NOBODY could align an SLR Receiver better),
Ed Martin, Col. Terry (sp?), who will
always command my highest respect,
Travis,
the Lockheed Tech Rep and all of the guys I worked with and the
Deitz,
the king of 7AM games of "fog ball" on the BAFB 9 hole championship course.
Ok guys, nice to see these names and memories, Stutz,
we won't mention what was really in your Deployment Box...
SSgt Michael DiMarzio
Email: michaeld79@hotmail.com
Mon,
18 Jun 2001 18:46
Tom Charters, Lt Col, USAF (Ret.)
Writes:
I was with the SRC from 1974 to 1978 and was part
of the reactivation team at Beale for the SR-71 as the Intel Chief
at the GOC.
Keep your airspeed up!
Tom Charters, Lt Col, USAF (Ret.)
Email: brenda_charters@hotmail.com
Fri,
15 Jun 2001 22:13
Lt. Col. (Ret) Frank J. Murray
Writes: I am quite retired here near Gardnerville, near my two daughters
and busy as can be developing our new Digs. I Moved from Flagstaff about
two years ago. Don't fly anything but models anymore. My lovely wife of
48 years, Stella, tries to keep me going by setting out things to do. Anyway,
you have done a great job with the "Blackbird" Website. I don't have much
of a home computer and only use JUNO for some BS with my buddies. I can
always go over to Jan's and have a look if something interesting comes
up.. I do keep some regular skeds via Ham Radio with a bunch of old friends.
I am proud of one other thing I did with airplanes, and that is
my tour in Vietnam flying the A-1 Skyraider.. I had a two year duty and
travel restriction following my tour with the OXCART program.. When that
time was up I had already volunteered for the "Sandy" mission flying the
A-1 out of NKP, Thailand. Great airplane and great mission too. From the
fastest in the theatre to the slowest. If you love airplanes, I guess it
doesn't really matter much if you believe in the mission, RIGHT?? Ken
Collins should be on the short list of guys that were awarded the
CIA's Intelligence Star award following the close of OXCART. He was one
of the first guys to enter that program. He also went on to fly the SR-71
at Beale after OXCART. I declined the invitation to do that and opted to
return to flying fighters in ADC. Anyway, thanks for your good work on
the Blackbirds.............You know, we never called the A-12 a Blackbird,
just the CYGNUS or CYG for short and "The Article" in the early days. Things
most Blackbird Historians don't know.
Frank J. Murray, CIA A12 Pilot
Email: dutchtwozero@juno.com
Editors Note: This message has been reprinted by permission. Frank J. Murray flew some of the First A12 Oxcart combat missions for the CIA over Vietnam and North Korea in 1967/68. He was awarded the CIA's highest award the "CIA Intelligence Star for Valor" in 1968. Thank your Sir, for your recollections and permission to post to the "Alma Mater" page. The CIA Oxcart operation at Kadena AB, Okinawa is available at this URL: http://www.wvi.com/~lelandh/kadena.html
Tue,
19 Jun 2001 14:40
SSgt Roger Sharp Writes:
I transferred to Beale from Davis-Monthan during the big move. I enjoyed
working with both airplanes in the PSD section. I visited Beale three years
ago and it was nice to be there again. The static display of the Blackbird
by the tower brought back a lot of good memories.
I wonder if anyone knows where Tom Urie went off to?
Thanks all of you with whom I served for making some life-long memories. We really did make a difference.
SSgt Roger Sharp
Email: rsharp@canyoncounty.org
Sat,
16 Jun 2001 19:01
Major Terry F. Frazier Writes:
I was assigned to the 376 SW from the fall of 1971 to 1974. During this
time, SR-71 assigned to 9SRW operated out of Kadena AB and were supported
by communications and intelligence personnel from the 376 SW. During that
time, the Detachment Commanders from Beale included a Lt
Col Braden and we were honored periodically by visits from
Col
Jerome F. O'Malley, the 9SRW/CC. I remember a few of the recce folks
(Capt Lew Dickens, e.g.) of the time.
I would like to see a brief history of the OL-RK and OL-RK operations out of Kadena at the time.
Major Terry F. Frazier
Email: terryf16@aol.com
Editors Note: History of the Blackbird Operations out of Kadena AB, Okinawa is available at this URL:
http://www.wvi.com/~sr71webmaster/kadena.html
Thu,
14 Jun 2001 22:39
Ray Rose Writes: I just
got finished reviewing the SR-71 site, and found it interesting and brought
back some of the most professional memories in my NSA career. While at
Menwith Hill in the 1980's, I was part of an OPSEC/COMSEC assessment of
the SR-71 operations out of Det 4. I went through the typical "we lost
your orders wait for 3 hours on the wooden chair" on my first visit, but
went on in subsequent visits to get personal visits to the hangar, signed
pictures by the crews, rides in the car going down the runway picking up
stones, to briefings by me to the SR-71 staff. They kept me in the car
at the end of the runway once, and on my last visit, put me in the middle
of the runway and had the SR-71 take off for me that morning. What a professional
"thank you" I could have never received on a piece of paper. Many of the
vulnerabilities were verbal, and not written in a report for all to read.
But determining the missions was a piece of cake. Probably still is. The
staff at Det 4 volunteered to keep my sons at their homes if I decided
to stay at Menwith Hill and continue to work the program. The SR-71 crews
and staff were probably the most professional, easy going military "targets"
I ever had; listening to me provide the vulnerabilities of all the RC programs,
the U-2 plus the SR-71, then how to identify the differences real time
(within a few seconds). Again, most of these were passed verbally. And
they listened, and improved their overall posture.
I am now retired from NSA. But I fondly remember the SR-71 crews and staff at Mildenhall for their professionalism, their friendliness, and devotion to the mission, and some of the best people I met and briefed during my career. If you ever meet these people, please pass on that the NSA pest is still mentioning their names, and their professionalism 16 years later. What a great bunch of people.
Ray Rose
Email: (Withheld)
Wed,
13 Jun 2001 12:29
Lt. Col. USAF Ret. Roger W. Andersen
Writes: My experience was with the A-12 Program from 1965 through 1968.
I am the President of Roadrunners International, a group of former Air
Force, Lockheed Aircraft Company and other vender personnel that worked
on the Program.
We meet every two years in Las Vegas. Roadrunner Reunion # 17 will run from Monday, October 1 through Thursday, October 4, 2001 at the Gold Coast Hotel in Las Vegas.
You have done an excellent job in putting this website together. In the next letter to our membership (July 1st), I will make sure they receive this email address, so they too can enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Sincerely,
Roger Andersen
RI Prez.
Email: blueandy@aol.com
Tue,
12 Jun 2001 12:58
Ron De Lozier MSGT, Ret
Writes: It was great being at the reunion last weekend. While my printer
is putting out the pictures and between phone calls, I figured after seeing
the models of the "in-flight refueling" at the reunion I'd relate a couple
of refueling stories. You can edit as appropriate.
#1. I was up at 4:30 in the a.m. to launch 974 on a Friday morning launch. You know the drill, check the forms and aircraft, make sure it was ready, brief the aircrew, setup the ground launch crew, etc. Launch was normal, taxi and takeoff by the book, no problems. About 1500, the Flight Chief told me to grab my stuff and put all the 780 gear by my rollaway, the bird had gone in to another base with a hydraulic pump failure, go home and pack your bags and we'll call you. About 1830, I got the call, report to the Composite Bldg at 1900 and bring your bags. I reported in, they loaded us and all the stuff on a "Q" model and away we went to Carswell AFB, Texas. We landed at 0000, backed the aircraft out of the hanger and proceeded to put fuel in it from the "Q" model that brought us. We towed the aircraft nose first into the vicinity of #4 engine of the "Q", they had #1 engine at 98% to pump and transfer fuel via a runaround hose into the SR. Refueling complete, tow the bird back into the hanger, R&R the hydraulic pump and ops check the pump/postflight/preflight all in sequence, together. Take a break and wait for the aircrew. They showed up around 0900, strapped in, started, checks done, taxied to the end of the runway, did the runups and taxied back to the hanger. Severe vibrations!! Well, the "Q" model took off an hour previous and was boring holes in the sky waiting to refuel 974 so they could go home. Word was passed that they had to land back at Carswell the bird was broke again. In order for the "Q" to land he had to get rid of some weight, so he flew over the Gulf of Mexico and dumped excess fuel so they could land. We spent the rest of the day trying to find that @%^!#$& vibration. It was hiding real good. We ended up signing off the 781A as op chk'd IAW 1SR71A-2-7, CND (could not duplicate). The rumor that went around was that the "Q" Aircraft Commander had discussed the problem of having to dump fuel with the SR pilot, and from what I understand, the conversation was extremely animated and at a very high decibel rate with superlatives akin to that of junkyard mechanics and sailors. So, after a tirade of wailing, flailing of arms, and gnashing of teeth, it was decided by the powers that be, due to the requirement to immediately refuel the SR after takeoff, because of the extended engine maintenance run to find the elusive vibration, the SR would take off first and the KC-135 would follow immediately, and establish an orbit over the runway . The SR would make a low, slow return over the runway and plug into the KC and they both would climb out together. For us on the ground, that was an impressive sight and, because the word got out of what was proposed, the flight line was loaded with spectators. About 30 minutes later, the SR came back over the runway, lit both burners and pointed skywards soon to be out of sight, but as usual the lingering sound of 2 J-58s in full afterburner.
#2. I was working the night shift in A Flight, and was told to refuel one of our birds just coming out of Fuel Systems Repair for a leak check. It was a typical winter night at Beale, cold and a light rain falling. We backed the aircraft out of the FSR side of the hanger, hooked up the first of three fuel trucks and began refueling. I was in the cockpit with the refueling control box checking the tanks to make sure the CG stayed where it was supposed to. This particular task required a complete refuel and leak check. Hopefully, it would not require a defuel. After we had about 3000 gallons on board and were servicing the LN2, the rain came heavier. I stood up in the cockpit and saw the whole aircraft was wet with rain and as the fuel tank pressure increased soap bubbles started forming along the backbone and upper wings of the aircraft. We had just disconnected the first fuel tank and I was checking out the shutoff valves when I got nailed with an electrical shock from the control box. It appeared that the rain had gotten inside the box and was shorting the contacts inside the box to ground through me and then the airframe. I stopped the refueling operation and discussed the problem with Maintenance Control. I suggested that we tow the aircraft back into the hanger and finish the operation, but the fire department didn't believe it to be safe. After much discussion, I finally persuaded the fire department, with the help of the Maintenance Control Officer to allow us to finish the refueling. What I had planned was to empty the second fuel truck, and plug the third truck into the second and have it relay the fuel to the aircraft. It was quite a scene, one fuel truck plugged into another which was connected to the aircraft. We finally got a pressure shutoff indicating all tanks were full, with the fuel quantity gauge confirming a full load. we took a break and after we got back about 10 minutes later, we came back to see a two-toned SR inside the hanger. The soap solution used for leak checks mixed with the rain water on the top of the aircraft and the escaping LN pressure from the leaks had turned the entire top of the wings and fuselage white. We had to wipe down the entire top of the aircraft and wait to see where the leaks actually were. I don't remember if the aircraft was defueled and put back in FSR or not, that decision was made on the mid shift. But there was a lot of slipping and sliding going on that night.
Ron De Lozier MSGT, Ret
Email: namba209@4dcomm.com
Wed,
6 Jun 2001 20:58
Craig E. Solle Writes: Over
twenty years later, my awe at the sight of the SR-71, and the pride in
being associated with her remains. I was stationed at Beale AFB from 1974,
until my discharge in 1977, and worked in 9th SRW Flight Scheduling and
Training. Pictures of the Blackbird are displayed both at home and at work,
and I have always been willing to take the time to relive that time in
my life with others.
I am looking forward to the reunion this year, and hope to renew
some old friendships. Emails from those who remember me are welcome.
Craig E. Solle
Email: CES@prodigy.net
Mon,
4 Jun 2001 18:43
SMSgt Monty C. Wiseman (Retired)
Writes: Stationed at Beale AFB from Feb 1983 to Apr 1985. TDY to Det 1
in Fall of 1983 and Det 2 in winter of 1984. Worked in the Environmental
Control Systems Shop, 9th FMS.
Looking for anyone I worked with. Please drop me an E-mail. Best
assignment in my career--hands down!
SMSgt Monty C. Wiseman (Retired)
Email: wisemanmc@hotmail.com
Fri,
1 Jun 2001 04:05:13 SSgt Pete Fischer Writes:
I was reading some of the comments made by your viewers and came across
an article written by
TSgt (ret) Karasinski.
I am the Pete Fischer he mentioned in relation to the "Bat Caver's". He
got everything right except for one small item. The "Bat Eagles" were made
for
Colonel Jon Krause when he was promoted
to full Colonel. However, I would have been proud to have made a set for
Colonel
Spacy as well. They were both exceptional officers. Till next time
- Good Health, Good Luck and See You Later.
SSgt (former) Pete Fischer
Email: pdfischer@hotmail.com
Thu, 31 May 2001 12:44 MSgt William Muenster (Ret)
Writes: Enjoyed this great site! I was connected to both the SR-71/U-2
programs while assigned to the 548th Recon Tech Group in Hawaii from 75-79.
We traveled back and forth to Okinawa to Support the Mobile processing
Center (MPC). I was a film processor whose responsibility was to process
the original negative film loads from the various on board camera systems.
It was an assignment I will never forget.
MSgt William Muenster (Ret)
Email: muensterb@saic.com
Sat,
26 May 2001 04:48
Dorothy Madigan Writes:
My experiences with the SR-71 and 903rd Refueling personnel were
as piano player at the FBIS Club at Kadena between 1966 and 1970. Many
were the good times we had around that piano, singing and telling stories.
Special friends remain from those days. I remember
Howie
Haupt, Neal Sorensen,
Bill
Batson, Al Surridge, and many others.
Dottie (Cabe) Madigan
Email: madigan2@aol.com
Fri,
25 May 2001 06:43
SSgt. Mike Manna Writes:
I was assigned to the 9th FMS Instrument Shop (1968 - 1970). Worked the midnight shift. It was awesome even now thirty years later to of had the opportunity to work on the SR-71. Currently retired from SBC/Ameritech and living in Franklin, WI.
SSgt. Mike Manna
Email: mjm101647@ameritech.net
Mon,
14 May 2001 15:58:
A1C Bill George Writes:
I was a SLR Recce-Tech working on the greatest plane ever built at Beale
AFB, 9th AMS from Nov.70 until Nov. 71. I still point with pride to both
pictures of the Blackbird and my having been associated with it. I was
then transferred to Ubon Royal Thai AFB to work on the C-130 Spectre gunship
until my discharge as a Sgt. (E-4) in Nov. 73. The images of this beautiful
aircraft rolling out of the hanger, taking off and landing are still with
me to this day. I enjoyed every minute that I was there and just wish I
had a longer experience with the SR. Hoping to find anyone who was in my
shop during that time.
A1C Bill George
Email: justin1028@juno.com
Mon,
14 May 2001 15:46 P&W Tech. Rep. A. C. Angel
Writes: I worked on the A12,YF12A at the site no one knows about. In the
early days, this machine was quite an education, and something all of us
will never forget. If there are any other American Can types still kicking
out there, we're still out here, and would like hearing from those that
still remember the day of yore.
A. C. Angel, P&W Tech. Rep.
Email: aangel7100@aol.com
Mon,
14 May 2001 07:54 SMSgt Richard C King Writes:
I am already in the book. Would like to update my e-mail address.
rk30907@aol.com.
Spent 11 yrs in the SR program with the flight simulator.
Best outfit I was ever assigned.
SMSgt Richard C King
Email:rk30907@aol.com
Sat,
12 May 2001 02:15
Sam Hashimoto Writes:
I worked on the SR-71 at Beale from 1967 to 1970 when I was discharged.
I was in the A&E squadron in the ANS shop. I liked your web page.
Sam Hashimoto
Email: sam.hashimoto@trc-co.com
Tue,
8 May 2001 22:05
MSgt, USAF, Ret. Bob Rittenhouse
Writes: I have previously written but have experienced a power failure
on this computer and have ended up with a new e-mail address. I really
enjoy this web site and often think about all the good times back at Beale
and being connected to an outstanding program like the SR-71.
There's hardly a day goes by that I don't think about it. Thanks again.
MSgt, USAF, Ret. Bob Rittenhouse
Email: r.c.rittenhouse@worldnet.att.net
Tue,
8 May 2001 14:47
SSgt Fred Stein Writes: Thank
you for your web page, RE: The Blackbird!! I worked on recon systems on
the RF-4C Phantom for 3 years, including a year at Tan Son Nhut and Phu
Cat AFB's in Vietnam in 1968 to 69. My first exposure to an SR-71 was in
the summer of 1968, when a blackbird visited Mountain Home AFB Idaho. I
was very impressed. Then I was assigned to Beale AFB Cal in 1970 &
was trained on the SLR ("silly looker radar") system. I did a 4 month TDY
August to Nov 1970 and then was discharged. I was and still am very proud
of my service days and especially regarding my time working on the blackbird.
I have a twin brother, and we enlisted together in Dec '66 and completed
boot camp together at Lackland. He went on to Shepherd AFB, TX and to Scott
AFB, Ill. He was in Guam (Anderson AFB) for 18 months, when I was in SEA.
I stopped en-route to the USA from 'Nam to visit him for 3 days in Nov
'69. It was a wonderful reunion with him!! In fact a neighbor boy from
the farm in Wisconsin near where I was raised was also in Guam, as a sailor,
who I also visited. I have many wonderful memories of my service time.
I stay in touch with a friend from Dallas, TX; we served together for 3
1/2 years, including SEA. I am now a social worker supervisor for the County
and, as I write this message, I am looking at my print of Blackbird # 964,
which is hanging on my office wall. My son, age 21 is on year # 3 as a
security policeman / peace keeper with the USAF. He is currently on TDY
at Prince Sultan AB, Saudi Arabia. His permanent station is Grand Forks
AFB, North Dakota. My family and I are very proud of him, and he loves
what he does. I am very proud to have been with the Habu's in Okinawa.
One night we were celebrating an airman's birthday down town at the bar.
Someone had made a paper mache' snake head with a forked tongue. We were
silly enough at midnight so that someone wore the habu head and two dozen
dizzy airmen (inebriated) did a "crack the whip" walk back to base, where
the security police shook their heads and waved us on and told us to behave
ourselves and go to bed. Lots of good memories. As I ramble on, my son
did a TDY a year ago in the desert at Aljabar AB, Kuwait. He is a good
troop! Now, back to Mountain Home Idaho. The Blackbird that landed there
needed repairs and 3 days later it taxied out to the end of the runway
and took off. We expected a "show". Thirty seconds later, it flew about
500 feet off the deck and the pilot set the SR-71 on its tail and within
about 5 seconds it was out of sight!! I will never forget that experience.
I never, in my wildest dreams, thought that I would be assigned to work
on the aircraft, 18 months later. Thank you for reminiscing and allowing
me to ramble on with my memories. I am currently the SR Vice Commander
of our local DAV chapter. I am also very active with the local American
Legion unit. I honor all veterans of all the military branches who have
served, and done their duty honorably. Thank you again, and please contact
me with any questions or comments.
SSgt Fred Stein
Email: fred.stein@co.freeborn.mn.us
Sun,
6 May 2001 12:38
SMSgt Robert F. Lane USAF, Ret.
Writes: I was in avionics, supporting "Q" model tankers, 1973 and 1974.
I have lost all contact with everyone that was there. I sold my home on
Folsom Lake and bought a smaller place here in Rocklin, Ca.
I enjoy my retirement.
Let me hear from you.
SMSgt Robert F. Lane USAF, Ret.
Email: grandpa@lanset.com
Wed,
2 May 2001 20:46
MSgt Richard J. Wood (Woody)
Writes: I was assigned to Beale AFB Jun 1964 to the 4200 OMS, which late
