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For Your Information
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17 Apr 2008 |
1964 Outstanding Unit Award Posted Fourteen pages describing the “17th TCS Firebirds Receive
First USAF Outstanding Unit Award of 1964” have been posted under
“Commendations.” It covers the
history of the 17th TCS Firebirds from 1 July 1962 through 15 June 1964. This document is courtesy of former
Firebird pilot Jack Roth, and was received at the Galveston reunion. |
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10 Apr 2008 |
Galveston Reunion The “Galveston Gathering” is now history. The frozen margarita machine was a hit, and
everyone enjoyed himself or herself even without imbibing. If you weren’t in attendance, you were
definitely missed by someone. |
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10 Apr 2008 |
Entertainment at Firebird Reunion Bruce and Betty, Just a note to thank you for having me Tuesday
night for the Firebird Association. I really appreciated your kindness
and courtesy. It is always an honor to perform for people who have
given so much to make this country great, as you have done. Best Wishes, Mack Hayes ------------------------------------------ Webmaster’s Note: When the music began, I looked around to
find the DJ playing the CD’s. Lo and
behold, it wasn’t a CD playing, it was Mack.
He’s that good. |
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01 Apr 2008 |
Information on the Firebird Site. There is no intention to fill this site with stories,
photos, and history from a particular time frame. The historian can only post what he can “mooch,” or “solicit”
from former squadron members. In
fact, the historian often feels like a “lady of the evening” trying to do
“solicitation.” So, if you want your
era of the Birds to be “spotlighted,” just forward the appropriate stories,
photos, and documents at your earliest convenience. If requested, all loaned items will be “returned to sender,” as
soon as they have been duplicated. |
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01 Apr 2008 |
Project Cool Rope Added Project Officer
Ray Reeves’ story about the recovery of an Alaska Air National Guard C-123
from Lake Nuyakuk in Alaska – during 1967.
It is posted under “Mission.” |
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27 Mar 2008 |
Recovery of 57-490 and 57-492 from Greenland Ice Cap
Stories Earl Huddleston’s description of how these C-130 “D”
models were recovered from the Greenland Ice Cap under trying conditions have
been posted under “Mission.” Photos to be added later. Check back…. |
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11 Mar 2008 |
Firebird Paul R. Chenvert My father, Paul Chenvert, passed away on March 09,
2008. One of the things he asked was
that you and your organization, the Firebirds, be informed. He will be missed and he was always proud
to be a member of the Firebirds. Jim
Chenvert - jlchenv@hotmail.com |
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22 Feb 2008 |
New Pages Posted Under Green Hornets Menu Am beginning with photo album of Bill Nichols – 61st
TCS, Greenland and the South Pole, 1959-60 era. |
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21 Feb 2008 |
New Pages on Firebird Site – Sondrestrom Menu ARA approaches,
Navigator’s Briefing, Emergency Airfields, Sondrestrom SID, etc. Info courtesy of Brigadier General Gene
Ramsay (Pages from era when he was a lieutenant—1974-75) |
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29 Jan 2008 |
Harold Sacane, Firebird Navigator, Succumbs With
a great deal of remorse I must announce that the obituary of Hal has been
posted at http://www.firebirds.org/taps/sacaneobit.htm |
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17 Jan 2008 |
Priscilla Nichols Dear Friends,
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08 Jan 2008 |
Billy Hales Under the Wx
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01 Jan 2008 |
Harold
Sacane in Nursing Home Nancy Sacane
says that Harold is suffering from a degenerative spine, and was
hospitalized twice in November. On November 29th, he had a fall
that left him unable to walk. Hal was then moved to a nursing
home with a therapist in an effort to secure a physical therapy program for
him. Nancy says that he is trying really hard to get better but
has some long/low days. Thanks, Betty
Huff |
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15 Dec 2007 |
Joyce Littleton One of our Firebird members, O.C. Littleton, lost his wife
this day to a severe stroke. Her name was Joyce Littleton. You may wish
to post something on the web pages. Joyce was 74 years of age and
she will be interred with her father,
in a family grave site, in Denision, TX. There is to be no memorial
service at this time and O. C. asks that she be remembered. Thanks, |
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08 Nov 2007 |
Firebird Flyer Posted The November 5, 2007, issue of the Flyer has been
posted on this Board under the button entitled Newsletters. |
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04 Oct 2007 |
Condition of Dick Semple (Former Firebird Pilot) Bruce Huff just called and gave a report on Dick. Dick has had two or three strokes since
last August, and has had to do lots of therapy. Cathy, his wife, says that Dick gets around on a walker and is
doing better. However, she said that
Dick is very despondent since his Spokane friends dropped him after his
strokes. And, she says that the
Firebirds that have called recently have really cheered him up. So, if you remember Dick, why not give him
a call and reminisce for a while? His
number is 509-466-9825. |
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14 Sep 2007 |
News from the 517th.
New commander has joined the Firebird Association. Date: Thu, 13 Sep 2007
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15 Jul 2007 |
Historical Question: Can
anyone elaborate on this incident, taken from the Sondrestrom Log Books? 23 February 1967
-- Sondrestrom Daily Log At approximately 1845L, 23 Feb 67, Sgt. Chelf, Chief
Clerk, called to advise of a ground incident involving 70-494. The crew chief hooked up to a prop stand
containing a prop just removed from 494.
He pulled it underneath the right wing, cutting through the skin from
leading edge to, and including, the aileron.
Approximately 4.500 pounds of fuel was spilled onto the ramp while
fire equipment stood by, and hosed down the area. All other aircraft in vicinity were moved away (towed)
immediately. |
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21 May 2007 |
Firebird Tradition
Continues I am currently going through C-17 requal and will be
arriving at the 517th AS in August. Having helped reactivate the 10th
Airlift Squadron while I was at McChord I know the importance of maintaining
the historical record of our squadrons. It looks like the 17th/517th has
a very robust historical record, which is great. Sorry, you didn't get the records you were
promised; quite a bit of turbulence is associated with transitioning the
squadron, so who knows what happened. If the items are still there
(haven't been boxed and sent to Maxwell or something), I will see if I can
get the situation remedied. In the mean time I'll shoot an e-mail to
some contacts I have up there and have them hold any historical stuff.
Even though the squadron is transitioning to the C-17 the history of the
Firebirds from C-47s through the C-130 is an important part of the squadron
heritage. I really enjoyed your website, it is very well done and like
I said has some great historical items. Hope this eases your mind a bit, Paul Greenlee ------------- Paul Will the C-17 squadron be called the 517th? Will
they be the Firebirds? Just wondering...hope to keep the tradition
going.... Nolan, |
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08 May 2007 |
Randall Lattin: Son
of Gary and Carol Lattin A First-rate Scout
He soared as Highland troop member Debbie Pfeiffer Trunnell, Staff Writer Article Launched: 04/29/2007 12:00:00 AM PDT HIGHLAND, CA - More than 30
years ago on a cold morning on the banks of the Colorado River, Boy Scout
Randall Lattin got up early to prepare pancakes on the grill for his fellow
Scouts. Making breakfast in winter in the middle of nowhere came naturally to the young man who climbed the ranks to Eagle Scout and was most at home in the wilderness. "About 1 percent of the boys registered in Boy Scouts of America become Eagle Scouts," said Paul Chandler, Lattin's former scoutmaster from Highland. "He was in that small percent because he saw what needed to be done and did it." The man who was once a successful Scout died April 17 after battling
esophageal cancer. He was 48. Lattin was born Nov. 21, 1958, in Okinawa, Japan, to Gary Lattin, a
U.S. Air Force pilot, and Carol Lattin, a homemaker. The military family moved frequently, to Air Force bases in New York and Texas as well as Anchorage, Alaska. Randall and his brother were accepting of life on the move. Every couple of years, their mother said, they would tell her, "We have been here long enough. It's time to move." Lattin still found time for typical boyhood pastimes, including football and baseball and taking things apart. The Vietnam War intruded on the Lattins' family life in the late 1960s. When the boys' father received orders and went to that war-torn land, his boys missed him deeply, recalled their mother. "Gary was a real hands-on dad who taught his kids how to shoot and ski, so he was missed," she said. When his tour of duty ended, Gary Lattin returned to the U.S. and was sent to Norton Air Force Base. The family settled in Highland, and soon became active in the Boy Scouts. Chandler met him when the boy came by one Friday evening and said he wanted to join Troop 211, sponsored by Highland Methodist Church. Once in the troop, he climbed from the rank of Tenderfoot to Second Class, then First Class. Lattin and a number of other boys in the troop were sent to junior leader training. When they returned, some formed a patrol named the Eskimo Paratroopers. The boys came up with the name because many had fathers in the Air Force, said Chandler. "Norton (air base) was a big contributor of boys who formed our troops at the time," he said. With his patrol, earned several tough-to-come-by merit badges, eventually working up to the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from San Gorgonio High School in 1978 and went on to earn an associate degree in journalism from San Bernardino Valley College. He was also an accomplished member of the archery team at the college. "They came in first place for the first time while he was on the team," recalled his mother. After college he worked for a few years in New York before returning to work for Associated Sales Decorative Plumbing. Last December, he began having problems swallowing and was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. The disease made him so tired he couldn't move, but he stayed strong for his mother, she said. "He had the same attitude toward cancer that helped him through Scouting," she said. Lattin is also survived by his brother, Mark Lattin of Highland. Memorial services were Thursday at Bobbitt Memorial Chapel in San Bernardino. Lattin requested that any remembrances be in the form of donations to the
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society, 11937 13th St. |
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24 Apr 2007 |
Firebird Historical
Photographs at EDF A while back, one of the
517th AS officers told me that there was a box full of old
Firebird photographs and news releases there in the squadron. And, he told me that if I would do some
favor for him that he would scan and send them to me. I did the favor, but the Major never got
around to sending the historical data.
Too bad! Now that there will be a
new and improved 517th, that will be a C-17 squadron, I’m wondering if they
will keep the Firebird insignia, campaign streamers, older photos, and news
releases—all important parts of the squadron history. Here’s a “most excellent”
mission for our Firebirds in Alaska.
Please do a little snooping around and find out if the “historical
mementos” will become “surplus property.”
If so, please consider completing a “sortie” to save them for the
Firebird Association historian. Gene
Ramsay is already working on this for me, but I’ll bet that he could use a
whole “crew” to help. Thanks for listening, Nolan |
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18 Apr 2007 |
Don Thompson, Firebird Navigator, Succumbs I
just received this from a friend of a friend about mid to late 1970s former
Firebird Navigator Lt Col (ret) Don Thompson. The friend and friend of a
friend both have cabins in the same area as Don up on the Alaska Railroad
north of Talkeetna. The
last Christmas Card I received from the Thompsons was a year or two ago and
their long-time address was still 77 Ft Sullivan Circle, Dalzell, SC 29040 Gene Gene Ramsay The
Message: ".
. . . . howdy....talked with jean thompson this morning and I'm sad to say that
Don lost his battle with cancer on Feb.11...he was buried in Arlington National Cemetery, with full military honors . . . . ." |
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01
Apr 2007 |
Firebird
John Wright Succumbs I hate to be the bearer of bad news. But, I have to inform
you all that John Wright passed away this morning (March 31, 2007) from
pulmonary fibrosis. |
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07 Mar 2007 |
Letter of appreciation from Sid Marcus. Please
forgive the belated posting of this message. Bruce Huff kept on sending
me copies and I kept on “misplacing” them. 17
October 17,2006 The
Firebird Association Dear
Bruce; First
let me congratulate you on your selection as President of the Firebird
Association. It is an honor well deserved. I know that you will do the
association proud. Secondly, I received a check today for $1500.00 from
the association. Bernie Warren explained to me that the association voted
these monies to assist Joyce and I due to our loss in Hurricane Katrina. We
both thank the Firebirds for this generous support and I can assure you it
will be used wisely. This past year has been a very traumatic time for us and
this gift at this time is especially meaningful. Please
tell the association how very thankful we are. Sincerely, Sid 6970
Hedgestone Way
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16 Nov 2006
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Farewell
to the C-130 Ceremony at Elmendorf AFB The
Firebirds are planning a “Farewell to the C-130” Ceremony and get-together
early next spring at Elmendorf AFB. The 517th will be converting to C-17s.
The schedule is to have a dinner and a video on the 22nd of March and a
3-ship formation flight on the 23rd. Following the engine shutdown at 1517L,
everyone will adjourn to the Firebird watering hole, called the Hardstand,
for drinks, food, a last hurrah, and more drinks. All current and former
Firebirds are invited. Capt
Joe Clancy is the project officer and he is currently putting together a
video of the legacy of the Herk in the Firebird history. He is looking for
video/film from the 60s or 70s as well as unique still photographs. He
can be reached at 907-551-1718/3352 or joe.clancy@elmendorf.af.mil Hopefully
you can come up with some visuals for him as well as attend the event! They
are also trying to track down all surviving former 17th/517th Commanders so
they can send formal invitations to them. I gave them all I have on Jim
Waldman, as well as Bill Gibbons, who was commander for a short period.
Anyone know the whereabouts of Don Gould? Please
pass this news on! THANKS. Gene Gene
Ramsay 907-345-6647
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22 Oct 2006
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Firebird Bernard "Lucky" CoyneFrom:
"marilyn.wass" marilyn.wass@ntlworld.com Date:
Sun, 22 Oct 2006 Hi,
To all you lovely people who have taken time and effort to try and help with
information in my search for Lucky Coyne and his children. My
search has nearly come to to an end, thanks to you all. So here is the story
so far. And, if any of you can still provide any more info I would greatly
appreciate it, after you have read this it may jog more memories for some of
you.
An
ex retired G.I. who resides in the UK in Suffolk and has an English wife as
was my Aunt Sylvia, has been in touch his name is Jack Sile for those who may
know or remember him, apparently he was a great friend of Lucky and Sylvia,
it was through them he met his wife and Lucky was best man at their wedding.
The
story goes, after Sylvia's death in 1970 Lucky and the children, Buddie,
Terri, Katie, Peter and John all returned to Woodbridge. Lucky met and
married again to a lady called Molly in January 1974, and then when he
retired in 1981 they continued to live on Norwich Road, Ipswich. Molly still
lives in Ipswich.
Lucky
had a tax franchise on Woodbridge Road (thank you Walt for that) and also he
was importing american cars over here, and he used to ride around in a blue
and white volkswagon camper. I was also told that Peter the eldest child went
to Bristol University and studied art.
Lucky
remained here until he got ill in 1998 with liver problems and they think it
was attributed to 'Agent Orange' (I'm sure you all know about this)
Lucky
returned to the States for treatment as his children were all living there in
Florida, sadly he died 12th May 1999, I found this out through searching on
the internet and Jack confirmed it. As I said his 2nd wife Molly still lives
in Ipswich and Jack has spoken to her and provided me with her telephone
number and is willing to speak to me, due to some family issues after Luckys
death she no longer has contact with his children but has given me Terri's
address in Jacksonville, FL.
Thank
you Elizabeth you were right Terri did marry Dean Muncer in 1999, and there
was another child John Francis who we didn't know about apparently he is
still living in Texas somewhere?
For
some reason unknown to Jack he heard that Buddie was in the penitentiary and
unable to attend Luckys funeral in 1999, sadly Buddie has since died not sure
if it was drugs related or the exact date.
To
think all this while I have been looking in the wrong place, Lucky was still
here in the UK whilst my dad was still alive, I know my dad would loved to
have met up with him as he often spoke of him and Sylvia which first set me
on my quest.
But
once again due to family issues on my side the wife of my dads only brother
(he died 1959, and she in 1991) she was the one that told my dad when Sylvia
had died, so it was obvious she was in touch with Lucky but when my dad asked
she denied all knowledge and would n't give him any information, and their
children say they couldn't remember anything either.
After
I have written to Terri and sent copies of the photos I have, if anyone is
interested I will let you all know.
Please
any of you feel free to keep in touch, you never know I may be able to help
some of you sometime and just for the record I live in Mansfield,
Nottinghamshire, Robin Hood country, so if anyone is visiting the UK and gets
this way please give me a ring 0I1623 472750.
PS:
My dad was actually born in Parry Sound, Ontario and it was through searching
for that side of the family with my maiden name Helmkay that I eventually met
some Canadian cousins in 2004, with whom I keep in touch and others in
Michigan and Hawaii, but thats another story.
Once
again a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who has provided me with info, please keep
in touch
Marilyn
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28 Mar 2006
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Wanda TinneyMrs.
Tinney passed away today at 8:10 AM. Further information is pending.
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26 Mar 2006
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Wanda TinneyWanda Tinney, widow of Col. Robert Tinney is in hospice. She has cancer of the esophagus and the doctors have given her two to three days to live. Hospice of Wichita Falls, P.O. Box 4804 Wichita Falls, TX 76308 Phone 940-691-0982. Courtesy of Richard and Kaye Tinney, and Tom Sommerville
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04 Feb 2006
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Firebird Lee Walker Succumbs It is with a heavy heart that I post this news…Nolan ”Our friend Lee arrived
back in Anchorage 2 a.m. Wed.& he was able to stay home for a few hours.
Renada had to admit him to hospital about 10 a.m. He passed away 10:45 a.m.
Thur. His memorial service is planned for 14th but Renada said she may change
that to 17th. Renada is going to request that in-leu of flowers people
donate to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. You may do so on line at http://www.leukemia.org/hm_lls .
Should anyone wish to speak to Renada, her phone # is: (907) 333-8248”.
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17 Oct 2005
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Lee Walker News 20 June 2005: Message received from Lee I
got some pretty bad news ten days ago, and finally decided to relate it to
you all now. I'm going to be off the air for a while. I've been medically
diagnosed as having a form of cancer called Myelodysplastic Syndrome.
Yeah, it's a mouth full. It's somewhat similar to leukemia, but worse. In
this disease, the bone marrow, which continually manufactures red blood
cells, red blood platelets and hemoglobin, either lays down on the job or
greatly decreases the production of these three entities. The red blood cells
transport oxygen throughout the body, including the brain, pumped around by
the heart. When the body senses that it's oxygen supply is low, the heart
quickens it's pace to try to pump blood faster to remedy the shortage. This
places ever-increasing pressure on the heart, which eventually cannot meet
the O2 demand. Before I was diagnosed, I was near-fainting anytime I exerted
just a little bit. Energy just drains away...making any productive activity
all but impossible. Additionally, this disease makes the patient a
"bleeder", for the blood has insufficient plateletts to clot. I've
received six blood transfusions thus far, and am due another on Thursday.
They are all that's keeping me on my feet at present. I need a bone marrow
transplant (replacement)...the facilities for which don't exist in Alaska. So
I'm being shipped off to the Oregon Health and Science Research Center in
Portland....renound to be one of the finest cancer treatment hospitals in the
nation. They specialize in my ailment. I'm told I'll be there for 90-120
days. The first visit will be an evaluation phase If I'm accepted as a
patient (I may be too old) after they've run their tests, then I'm in for the
course. Wish me luck! I really want to make the cut! In
addition, their tests have revealed that I have non-Hodgson's cancer in my
neck. So, if one of these bastards doesn't get me, the other one will. The
bone marrow disease is not inherited, and no breakthru has occurred to
indicate a cause. I've never smoked. And there has never been a case of
cancer in my family four generations back! Figure that out! That's
where I'm at. I'm not trying to cry on anyone's shoulder...just relating that
I won't be on the air for awhile, and the reasons. You might imagine the
turmoil such a thing can cause in a guy's family. I've surely learned that
past procrastination in items I should have taken care of months and years
ago....all of the sudden become front & center and urgent.
------------------------------------- Wed, 5 Oct 2005 Hey,
everybody, THE
OHSU TRANSPLANT TEAM HAS FOUND A BONA-FIDE BONE MARROW DONOR FOR ME !! The
guy is 26, and lives somewhere in Europe. The Transplant team is targeting
the first week in November for my transplant. Afterward, Renada and I will
have to remain here in Portland/Vancouver for 100 days....into February, and
be immediately ready to rush to the hospital if complications arise. We've
been here since 26 June! We have a big meeting tomorrow to set up dates and
the regimen for me to get prep'ed for the transplant. This
is really a BIG DEAL, folks! I get only one shot at it...do or die. No second
transplants in the event the donor's BM material rejects my body, as it would
mix material from two donors...a sure-fire prescription for failure. So
Send me your High-5's and wish me well. We're excited, anxious, grateful, and
scared to death...all at the same time! More later! Lee -------------- Here's praying that Lee will do well and be with us for many, many, more Firebird reunions. nb
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07 May 2005
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Photo album by Jack Cayton added
in Photo section. Best viewed with a screen resolution of 1024 x 768
and a broadband connection.
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18 Jan 2005
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Frank E.
Brammer, Firebird Navigator
My Father, Frank Brammer passed away earlier today,
January 17, 2005, in Chapala, Mexico. God Bless you all, Frank BrammerSee "Taps" menu for additional information.
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Frank
Brammer in the lounge of the Arctic Hotel at Sondrestrom AB, Greenland,
around 1965. |
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August 30, 2004
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Bonnie L. Surber Bonnie L. Surber, 66, died July 18, 2004, in Cañon City,
Colorado. She was born August 10, 1937, in Fort Sumner, N.M., to Obie A. Atkinson and Verna L. Jenkins Atkinson. She married James A. Surber Jr. on Aug. 14, 1955. Bonnie was a Registered Nurse and moved to Cañon City from Oregon in 1991. She enjoyed cooking, entertaining, gardening, antiquing, and spending time with friends and family and her dog, Fluffy. She is survived by her daughter, Lorena K. (Jeff) Miller,
Sleepy Hollow, Ill.; three grandsons, Jayme, Ryan and Zach; brothers, Ken
(Bitsy) Atkinson, Winter Haven, Fla., Jerry Atkinson, Grand Junction, and Bob
(Mary) Atkinson, Deltona, Fla., and a sister-in-law, Helen Atkinson, Cañon
City. Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband,
Jim Surber, Jr.; and brothers Don Atkinson and Burl Atkinson. A visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday,
July 21, 2004, at Holt Family Funeral Home Chapel of the Garden. Funeral
services will follow at 2 p.m., at Holt Family Funeral Home Chapel of the
Garden with Pastor Dale Dieter officiating. Interment will follow at Mountain Vale Memorial Gardens. Arrangements were handled through Holt Family Funeral Home.
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May 30, 2004
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David L. 'Buck' Buchanan April 13, 1933 - May 27, 2004 Vacaville resident Col. David L. "Buck" Buchanan
passed away May 27, 2004. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. June
5, at Community Presbyterian Church, 425 Hemlock St. in Vacaville. Pastor Jim Jensen will officiate. Col. Buchanan was born in Breckenridge, Texas on April 13,
1933. He grew up in the small Texas community where he married the former Kay
Hallmark, also from Breckenridge. Col. Buchanan achieved his wings and his Air Force
commission in May 1955 after attending Texas A&M University and
completing the aviation cadet program. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal and the Combat Ready Crew Medal. His retirement in 1985 culminated a 30-year military career. Buck was very active in his church, serving on several
committees. He was a member of the Vacaville-Elmira Cemetery Board as well as
a volunteer for the FISH program.
He was lovingly called "our number one
volunteer" by the Festival of Trees Board for his long-term commitment
to helping raise funds each year for the Opportunity House, Vacaville's
homeless shelter. His loving family and many friends will miss his love,
humor and wonderful smile. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kay; his sons and
daughter-in-law, David and Karen of Houston, Texas, and Michael and Clare of
Ripon; grandchildren, Shanna and Matt of Houston, Texas; brother, John
Buchanan of Albuquerque N.M., and sisters, Sue Green of Bayfield, Colo. and
Margaret Gregory of Abilene, Texas. Memorial gifts may be made to the Festival of Trees, 425
Hemlock St., Vacaville, 95688, or The Memorial Fund, Community Presbyterian
Church, at the same address. Arrangements have been made by the Vaca Hills Chapel
Funeral Home. The Reporter, Vacaville, California
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22 Mar 2004
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Navigator
Located: Frank Whittle
In a message dated 3/18/2004 6:38:14 PM Central Standard
Time, fwhittle@sc.rr.com writes: I flew for the 17th TAS Firebirds 1986-1989. It was my
first assignment as a navigator. Can you add my name to the list of former
squadron members. There are very few names on the list from the time frame in
which I was in the 17th TAS. Frank Whittle
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16 Mar 2004
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Obituary for
Ralph E. “Scotty” Robb
Here's
the Obituary from the Little Rock newspaper: Ralph E. (Scotty) Robb, United States Air Force Lt. Col. (Retired), died surrounded by family in his Edgemont, Arkansas home on March 13, 2004. Scotty
was born January 22, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois, to Ralph E. Robb, Sr. and
Belle (Monsen) Robb. He was preceded in death by both his parents and
brother, Don Robb. He
enlisted in the service at 18 and within seven years reached the rank of
M/Sgt. at a remarkably young age of 25. He was commissioned a 2nd Lt. out of
Officer Candidate School and went on to Pilot Training. Among numerous other
planes, he first piloted the C-119. He specialized in the C-130
aircraft, actually starting as a test pilot for the new experimental C-130 in
the 1950’s. He
advanced to Base Maintenance Officer for C-130’s at Sewart AFB, Tennessee. He was the Director of Secret Military
Missions at Naha AFB, Okinawa; supported the Astronaut Program at Patrick
AFB, Florida, flying pontoon equipped C-130s; flew low-level AC-130 Gunship
missions in Southeast Asia during the Viet Nam War, and later he served at Elmendorf
AFB, Alaska, flying specially equipped ski C-130Ds designed for ice landings.
He had 29 years of honorable military service, earning numerous special
awards the most prominent being the Distinguished Flying Cross, before retiring
at Little Rock AFB in 1974. A second career in real estate, starting in sales at Fairfield Bay led to his becoming a real estate broker in the town of Greer’s Ferry. He was active in many community services
including the Optimist Club and Special Olympics. His interests included
first and foremost his family, woodworking, photography and an intense
passion for golf. He's survived by his wife of 52 years, Sue
of Edgemont; three children - sons Michael of Dallas, Texas, Steven and his
wife Kay of Lawrenceville, Georgia and daughter Kristin Jones and her husband
Ken of Little Rock; five grandchildren Jay and Laurie Robb, Josh Fitch,
Ryan and Robyn Jones; two great grandsons; his brother John Robb and wife
Nancy of Fruita, Colorado; a host of dear cousins; and an extended family of
literally hundreds of long-term friends spread world wide. He was a member of Holiday Hills United Methodist Church in Greers Ferry. A Memorial Service will be held there on Thursday, March 18th at 10:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made
to his church or Hospice Health Care At Home c/o Cleburne County Health
Dept., Heber Springs AR 72543. Scotty
was a terrific pilot and a true pioneer of the C-130 Hercules. Scotty
made many contributions to the improvement of the C-130s that are flying
today. Our
condolences are extended to Scotty's family at this very difficult
time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. May Scotty
rest in Peace. If
you would like to send a card, the address is: The
Robb Family 99
Stanfield Rd. Edgemont
AR 72044 An e-mail address for your condolences is: kraftikris@comcast.net
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14 Mar 2004
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Former
Firebird Scotty Robb From: NicholsW1@cs.com Subject: Scotty Robb Bill Nichols
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18 Dec 2003
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Bettye Heifner
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5 Jun 2003
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Unit Roster
Major
update of Unit Roster web page. Please advise if your name was
not added.
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11 Aug 02
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CMS
William F. Liskow, Jr., USAF (Ret.) known to family and friends as Pat, passed away Sunday,
August 11, 2002, after a brief illness. See “Taps” menu for more details…
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10 Aug 02
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Carl
Berg, Firebird Navigator January
5, 2002 Dear Firebirds, My
husband, Lt. Col. Carl J. Berg, Jr., passed away July 25th, 2001, in Modesto,
California. He was the Squadron Navigator for the 17th
TCS. He was stationed at Dyess AFB, in Abilene, Texas, from 1961 to
1964 in the C-130 ski model. He was transferred to Elmendorf AFB,
Alaska, with the squadron in 1964 and served there until 1967. He made
many trips to Sondrestrom, Greenland. In 1967, he was transferred to
McClelland AFB in Sacramento, California, to C-121’s, and went to Viet
Nam. He retired in 1969. I
am sure that many of the Firebirds will remember him well. He enjoyed
flying in the C-130’s. Sincerely,
s/Ginny Berg (wife) |
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9 Aug 02
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Subject: Death
of C. D. Melin
Just
received another call from Bob Pinard a few minutes ago, and it was an update
on C. D. He informed me that CD was
transferred to his home today and died this evening around 7 P.M Eastern time.
He asked me to send word to all of C. D`s friends. C. D. will be cremated,
but nothing else has been decided. If I hear any more, I will certainly
keep you informed. I personally ask that we all say a prayer for C.D.,
a wonderful person. And, please remember Suzanne and his two children.
Thanks, Gerry A.
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9 Aug 02
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C.D. Melin –
News About Medical Condition
From: "Jim Richards" <jcrichar@swva.net> To: "Robert N. Pinard" <bobpin@webtv.net> Subject: C. D. Melin Date: Fri, 9 Aug 2002 Dear Bob, This is the latest update on C.D. Unfortunately, the news is not good. The dialysis is not working, the kidney is not responding, and the cancer is spreading rapidly. In accordance with his advance medical directive, he will be moved to his home in Mathews, VA today or tomorrow. He will be attended by family and hospice nurses until the end. All of us have our own special feelings about C.D. I reminded him last week that he and I met 39 years ago this month in the flight planning room in the 346th TAS. Since that time we have flown, fished, boated, partied, and visited together. I never had a better or closer friend. He never demanded anything or asked anything from me other than friendship. I never heard him criticize me or any of his friends. However, I did hear his constant laughter, see him smile and cast off sadness on every occasion. Last week, when he caught me sniffling, he smiled and said, "Now don't be maudlin, Jim." What a lesson in courage! So, my prayers are of thanksgiving that I had him for a friend, that he made me part of his life, and that the Lord bless him and keep him until we meet again. I'll keep you posted. Sincerely, Jim Richards
Address:
Lt. Col. & Mrs. C. D. Melin HC 2, Box 950 Mathews, VA 23109 (804) 725-5729
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14 Jul 02
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Former Firebird
Navigator Makes Good
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 14, 2002
New Air Guard Commander Poised to Prioritize Brigadier General (Select) Gene Ramsay takes command of 176th Wing
KULIS ANG BASE, Alaska - For a moment, the quartet of senior leaders stood together before a sea of camouflaged Air Guard members standing at attention. Silence cascaded through the hangar. Major General Phillip Oates, Adjutant General of the Alaska National Guard, stepped forward, in a time-honored tradition to accept the Wing flag from the outgoing commander of the 176th Wing, Brigadier General Van Williams. He then passed it, to the change of command ceremony, Brigadier General (Select) Gene Ramsay, the new commander. Oates was assisted by Chief Master Sergeant Jake Jacobson during the ceremony. Ramsay began his first speech, as commander, recognizing several senior military officers seated in the audience, but then departed from his notes and requested that the Wing formation be put at ease for the remainder of his remarks. In making this first decision of his new command career, Ramsay demonstrated his care, concern, and commitment to the organization he now leads. In explaining the current missions the 176th Wing supports, Ramsay touched on both the role the Wing has with regard to national defense and also local search and rescue support from the 210th Rescue Squadron. "With the increasing demands on the Air National Guard to support ongoing operations, it's more important now than ever that we evaluate how muc is enough when it comes to our people and fulfilling mission requirements," Ramsay explained. "The 210th is the busiest Rescue Squadron in the Air Force." Ramsay comes to his new assignment with confidence. He credits Brig. Gen. Williams for helping him prepare. As the first navigator to command the Wing, he brings unique perspective to his command. His career in the Alaska Air Guard spans over 20 years. He's also served as Chief of Safety and as the first commander of both the 210th Air Rescue Squadron and the 176th Operations Group.
Brigadier General Gene
Ramsay |
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Dec. 15, 2001
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Cliff Dykes,
Former Firebird Navigator, Visits Firebirds Home Page
E-mail: kreigadler@usa.net Location: Montgomery, Alabama
I was a navigator with the 17th from 1968-1972. They were the greatest bunch of guys I was ever associated with.
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Dec. 10, 2001
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Death of Gary Schmidt, Firebird PilotGary died of advanced colon cancer on November 26, 2001. He was diagnosed in September, and we went directly to M.D. Anderson. He had 3 chemo treatments. Following the last treatment he developed a massive infection, which he and the doctors were not able to get under control. Please keep the kids---Amy and Eric--AND me in your prayers. He is sorely missed. Linda Schmidt |
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Nov. 8, 2001
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Gerry Harris
Services
I wanted to let you know that we had the service for Dad today. My brothers did a very fine job of setting it up. Dad would have been proud. They were even able to get someone from the local Royal Scots to play the bagpipes for him. The honor guard did an excellent job. My father-in-law (retired Navy) said it was the most impressive honor guard he had seen. Dad was given full military honors, including a 21 gun salute. To our surprise a very old family friend who flew with Dad in Nam, Cal Taylor, contacted us. He lives only one hour away so he was able to come today, as well. My son is Army Reserve and my niece is Navy so they both wore their uniforms to honor Dad. He was very proud of both of them. My mother has cherished all the emails she has received from all over the country. I want to personally thank you for all your help and support. Please continue to keep in touch. With all my thanks, Evelyn Breland
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Nov. 5, 2001 |
Death of Gerald
“Gerry” Harris, Firebird Navigator
I'm sorry to inform you that Gerry passed away on November 1st (2001). He went in for bypass surgery, and because of his other health issues he didn't recover. He will be interned on November 8th in the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, OR. Instead of flowers, I would prefer for you to make donations to the National Diabetes Foundation or the American Heart Association. Would you notify the Firebird Association members. Please keep in touch. My computer is down, but you can contact me through my daughter's email -munchkineb@qwest.net. Regards, Shirley Harris
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Nov. 5, 2001
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Death of Sgt. Richard Nadeau, Jr. Please add to your TAPS page S/Sgt Richard J. Nadeau Jr., who passed away on November 5, 2001, while working on the flight line. This will mean a lot if you will do this.
RONALD E. KLINE AMN, USAF 517AS DEBRIEF/DISPATCH
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Aug. 25, 2001
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Former Member of
Raven Gang
I was a Master Navigator and Flight Examiner with the 139th and 109th when we took over the Greenland mission from Alaska at the NYANG and ferried the C-130D's to Schenectady. I retired in 1978 as an LC. Robert W. Moyer 133 Balford Dr. Oneonta, NY 13820 |
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June 2, 2001 |
Death of Colonel Bob Tinney A message received from Rob Tinney, son of Bob Tinney, on June 2, 2001. Colonel Bob Tinney, Firebird Commander from 1967 to 1969, died on June 2, 2001, about 11:00 AM in Wichita Falls, Texas, following a lengthy battle with cancer. He always remembered those two years as the most enjoyable and personally rewarding of his service career. He didn’t think of the 17th TAS as a unit but as a family doing a job together. He loved each and every one of you. I was unable to attend reunion 2000, but I hope to see all of you at reunion 2002, as I, too, am a Firebird. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that a memorial contribution be made in his name to the Hospice of Wichita Falls, P.O. Box 4804, Wichita Falls, TX 76308, phone 940-691-0982. |
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May 18, 2001 |
Don Wilkerson's Memorial Service and Memorials Nolan, I will use you as the central point. Don's memorial service will be held June 1st at 10:30 a.m. in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the New Haven United Methodist Church, 56th & New Haven. If anyone has questions, they may email me. I have also picked some memorials and they are as follows: Make A Wish Foundation for terminally ill children - one may do this on line. The Autism Research Institute, 4182 Adams Ave., San Diego, CA 92116 The National Rifle Association - an organization near and dear to Don's heart. Or, The American Cancer Society. And, one should feel free to choose any really good organization that does wonderful research for the good of mankind. Thanks, Carol E-mail: dandcwilkerson@cs.com |
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May 16, 2001 |
Death of Don Wilkerson - Webmaster's note: The following e-mail message was sent to John (Jack) Poplis by Carol Wilkerson. John and Lonnie, Don died this morning at 6:30. He had gone in to the hospital a week ago Saturday suffering from very low white counts due to a new chemo treatment. The new treatment had to be metabolized by the liver and his liver was impaired to start with. And, it got pinged and he couldn't come back. Basically he died from liver failure. It was a peaceful death. He had not been aware of anything for the past three days. He was a man at peace with himself, secure in the love of his family and friends, and the Lord has called him home. Carol |
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Feb. 23, 2001 |
Former Firebird... From: Royce.Lott@Hurlburt.af.mil Subject: Update Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001 12:36:31 -0600 Great site! I just found it while surfing the Net. I was assigned to the 17th TAS, then then the 517th ALS, from July '91 to July ' 94. My new address is 124 Long Pointe Drive, Mary Esther, Florida 32569. I'm currently flying AC-130H Gunships at Hurlburt. Royce D. Lott |
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Jan. 5, 2001 |
Former Firebirds... Sir, I am Steve Mollick, C-130H pilot with the 517ALS from 1991-1994. I'm currently at HQ AETC/IGIOF Randolph AFB, TX. Darren L. Miller has separated from the Air Force, and is currently flying for United Airlines out of Denver. Col Douglas L. Miller was the 17 TAS/CC (1992-1994) prior to Col Mike Hudson. Col Miller recently left his position as 317th Airlift Group Commander Dyess AFB, TX, and is now at Maxwell AFB, AWC/DFW CC-AMC. There's three former Firebirds for you. Hope this helps. Respectfully, Steve Mollick |
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Dec. 7, 2000 |
Harold C. Poché Jr. LAFAYETTE — Funeral services are incomplete for Harold Charles Poché Jr., 53, who died Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2000, at Lafayette General Medical Center. Arrangements have been entrusted to Martin & Castille Funeral Home Inc. of Lafayette, 234-2311. Charlie died suddenly on December 6th, in his home town of Lafayette, LA. Charlie was a member of the Firebirds in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Ironically, he was a good friend of Don Bowers. Since leaving the Air Force in 1983, Charlie had become a very successful businessmen, owning Navigation Electronics Inc., the largest reseller of GPS in the world. Charlie enjoyed life, and will be missed by his many friends. Jim Nelson (17th. 1977-1980) |
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Nov. 29, 2000 |
From: "Charles T. Heifner"
<chasbet@earthlink.net> It is with a heavy heart that I convey the news that John D. Hedges, former Squadron Commander of the 17th TAS Firebirds, lost his fight with cancer and strokes on 25 Nov. 2000. John was the Sq./CC in the early 1970's. John is survived by his wife, Barbara, their five children and families. I am certain that Barbara would enjoy receiving support from other Firebird friends. Barbara's phone number is 501-337-4701. Her mailing address is, Route 4, Box 44, Malvern, AR 72104. In conversation with Barbara she said do not send flowers but make a contribution to the NRA in John's memory instead. With warm regards, Charlie |
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Oct. 23, 2000 |
Former Firebird Needs Help With Mission Subj: What's
the right way to go about this? Let me first say how much I have enjoyed the Firebirds home page over the years. I was assigned to the 17 TAS as a loadmaster in 1989. I was retired from the 517th in 1997. I still live in Anchorage and enjoy having lunch with fellow retired Loads every month or so. I need the help of the Firebird's. My church has adopted another church on Sakhalin Island, Russia. Our friends to the West have been forgotten by Moscow and are having a tough time just surviving. Another member of our church another retired C-130 pilot by the name of Phil Bray is now a pilot for Reeves Aleutian Airways and they fly a regular scheduled flight to Sakhalin. It seems the government in the Russian Far East will charge double the value of goods brought into the country in boxes, but they allow each air crew member to bring in a suit case duty free. For several years now our church has been gathering food and clothing for these people and the air crews of RAA have been taking the suit cases into Russia. Here is the help part. The real problem is the suit cases don't come back. I need to find some more "Kit Bag, Flyers" The large green canvas bags that we all were issued to pack parachutes in and chemical warfare gear and other large bulky goods. I have bought all I could find from DRMO here at Elmendorf over the years and have run out at least for now. My question is would it be appropriate to ask the Firebirds if they could spare any of these kit bags? and how should I go about it? Thank you in advance for any help you could offer. Jeffrey Fritts |
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Aug. 7, 2000 |
It is with deep regret that I am notifying you of the death of Thomas M. James. You may have known that he had cancer, and it finally got the best of him yesterday, August 6, 2000. Tom and I were in 65-C at Vance Air Force Base in 63 and 64, and had not seen each other since then. We were planning a class reunion this October. Happily, we were able to become reacquainted last spring when he visited me in Foley, Alabama following the Biloxi Firebirds reunion. The funeral will be Wednesday, August 9, 15:00-17:00 at the Harding Funeral Home, Jonesburg MO 63351, just west of St. Louis. The phone number is 636/488-5600. Interment, with full military honors, will follow nearby at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in High Hill, MO. I will forward this message to other officers of the association that I am able to find on your website. Massey Lambard |
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July 31, 2000 |
109th Airlift Wing C-130 Shines and Takes Top Honors GLENVILLE, N.Y. (AFPN)-- The New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing brought home the Royal International Air Tattoo 2000's Concourse d'Elegance Trophy for the best kept aircraft. The tattoo, held at Royal Air Force Cottesmore, United Kingdom, July 19-24, had more than 150 aircraft representing military forces from more than 30 countries competing. The 109th AW's LC-130 ski-equipped aircraft, City of Amsterdam, that routinely flies to the South Pole and Arctic Circle, received the award. Judging for the competition was based on the exterior of the aircraft -- its general appearance, cleanliness, paint condition, and finish. Judges also considered the aircraft's age, flying hours and operating environment in their decision. "The fact that this aircraft, which sees regular duty in some of the harshest environments imaginable, was judged the best maintained from among the world's best, is a truly remarkable accomplishment," said Maj. Gen. Jack Fenimore, New York State adjutant general. Twelve foreign service air attaches comprised the international panel of judges. The Concourse d'Elegance Trophy is awarded for scoring the highest number of points for preparation and presentation of aircraft. The aircraft and the Guard wing racked up the highest point total ever recorded with 117 out of a possible 120 points. |
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July 17, 2000 |
Recent contact: My name is Lt. Col. John L. Stevens. I was a C-130E/H Pilot with the 17th TAS from 1985 to 1988. Currently, I am stationed at Hurlburt Field flying Combat Talon II's in the 15 SOS. Sorry to hear about Don Bowers. Worked closely with him in the mid 80's there. John Stevens (talon2john@aol.com) |
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June 23, 2000 |
The memorial service for Don Bowers, and the 3 park rangers, that were fatally injured in a plane crash on 19 June, will be held at the Talkeetna Elementary school, on Sunday, 25 June at 6pm. A gathering with food/and refreshments will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be sent to the Iditarod Trail Committee, Wasilla, AK. Jeannette has been in charge of the arrangements, and we will keep you updated on any significant information as we can. Thank you for all the Support!!!! - Richard Keida |
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June 22, 2000 |
The memorial service for Don Bowers is to be at 6:00 p.m., Sunday, June 25th, at the Talkeetna Elementary School. This was on the 6pm Channel 2 news tonight. (Courtesy of Jeanie & Boyd Gochanour) |
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June 21, 2000 |
Former Firebird pilot Don Bowers killed in McKinley crash. See Articles menu for more details. |
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Jan. 2000 |
Victor Blackburn, former Firebird FE 1968-1972, passed away due to complications from emphysema. Last home address: 609 East 20th Street, Newton, NC 28658-2008. Information received from Bruce Huff and Bob Mattingly. |
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