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FYI |
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DATE |
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07-16-2010 |
I am sorry to
report that my good friend 1972-1976 Firebird Paul Smith died last
night about midnight Anchorage time. Services will be next Tues &
Weds in Anchorage. I'm so glad he was able to attend the Firebird
Reunion this past Spring and if you didn't already know him, hopefully you
were able to get acquainted with him then. If there was ever a reason
to attend a reunion, THIS IS IT. I'll send the obit to Nolan for
posting on the Firebird site when it is published. I can fill you in on
the details sooner--just ask. |
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5 Jun 2010 |
Col. Wilbert
Turk Memorial Service. Wednesday, June 9th
2010, at 1:00 p.m. Southern Memorial Funeral
Home and Crematorium 334-271-4404 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Interment at Arlington National Cemetery September
15, 2010 1100
Hours (11:00 A.M.) |
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5 Jun 2010 |
Col. Wilbert Turk
Passes Away. Just received news from
Firebird Gerry Aycock that the revered Commander of the 61st Troop
Carrier Squadron passed away yesterday, 4 Jun 2010. As some may know, the Colonel was the first
commander of a C-130 ski model squadron, and made the first C-130 ski landing
at the South Pole. He is legend. For those who
would like to express their condolences, please contact Gerri at the
following address and phone number.
Information for the memorial service is incomplete at this time. Plans are for him to be buried in the
Arlington National Cemetery. Mrs. Gerri Turk 842 Sommerset Dr Montgomery, AL 36117-8231 (334) 271-6626 For more information contact Gerry Aycock at 830-598-9717 |
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Following
news to be updated…page crashed |
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28 Jan 2006 |
Lee
Walker Update This is being posted without the permission of Lee Walker. All names have been changed to protect the innocent. Yes, that is what friends are for… Renada
and I had a long talk with our Doctor today....who said that there wasn't
anything left in their bag of tricks that wouldn't be life threatening to
me. .And, and he said that there was
no guarantee that any of their tricks would prove to be
beneficial. So, it appears that we'll be returning to
Anchorage next week. Doctor says that I might have a few
weeks of functional time before the end. Now, if
that isn't sour news, what would be? You might
imagine how we feel....dumping all this on our friends. But maybe
that's what friends are for....? If
anyone would like to contact Lee, his e-mail address is 22firefly@earthlink.net |
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18 Jan 2006 |
Courtesy of Charlie Spicka |
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17 Jan 2006 |
Status of Firebird Lee
Walker Just received the following from our friend Lee Walker. I have posted it without his permission since I am so concerned, and care. “I've been
in and out of the hospital so many times that we've lost track of the
days. I got my stem-cell bone marrow transplant on 23 November....and
9 days later I was back in the hospital with Cyclopourine toxicity
poisoning...which went to my brain and knocked out my motor center, speech
and awareness. My blood analysis went ape, and we spent
most of December trying to get things lined back up again. Then,
on 20 December, the Doc did another Bone Marrow Biopsy....which showed that
the transplant was a failure and that the leukemia was back and three times
more aggressive that when I arrived at OHSU. Six months of hope,
prayers and misery down the tubes. We spent Christmas and New
Years in the Hospital. My
strength has been so decimated by all the chemicals dumped into me that
Renada and I won't be able to do much traveling or much of anything
else. If
anyone would like to contact Lee, his e-mail address is 22firefly@earthlink.net |
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25 Oct 2005 |
Hurricane Wilma Report Black Bart Bartunek - ("Badazz" Bart recently moved to the Naples, Florida, area.) Naples hit hard but we are OK. Minimal damage. Nothing here like the other hurricanes caused. We live in a house that is hell for stout. Had $100,000,000 damage here in town. Four homes destroyed. (local joke). Power out but have generator so beer is cold and coffee hot. Bart |
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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 Syndrom. 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 plateletts 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....renoun 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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09 Oct 2005
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Hurricane Katrina News Sid Marcus: 31 Aug 2005: Joyce
and I were lucky enough to evacuate to Florida and are in Ocala with our son
and family. I feel like a destitute prostitute as we lost our house and
everything except the car we drove off in and one small suitcase and our
dog. Please let me know if you hear anything from Bernie Warren as I am
very concerned about him and Sylvia. As for insurance, Homeowners DOES
NOT cover flood and that's what this is being called so we have NO insurance.
Sid 08 Oct 2005: We finished up 3 weeks in CA last week and have been back
here in Ocala this week. Our kids bought us a patio home in Mobile AL
and we are leaving here tomorrow for Mobile. We close on it next Friday
and move in on Monday, 17 Oct. Then Joyce and I will be starting a
whole new life. So far, our insurance company will not pay damages
because of the tidal surge, so we may wind up in litigation. You can't
do anything with FEMA until you resolve the commercial policy. Thank
God we still have our health and our doggy. We will build a second
empire. Sid Bernie
Warren: Bernie left Slidell and stayed with his children during the hurricane.
According to him, his home did not suffer damage other than a limb punching a
hole through the roof over one room. |
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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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05 May 2005
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Take a look at the “Reunion” page and take the poll that was just
posted. |
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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 Brammer
See "Taps" menu for additional information. |
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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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27 May 2004
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Buck
Buchanan Passes Away According to Bill Bless and Dick Henry, Buck passed away around 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 pm PST on Thursday night. His family was at his bedside. Anyone wishing to contact Kay and his family should send letters and cards to: Kay Buchanan, 160 Greenwich Cir. , Vacaville, CA 95688. Phone: (707) 446-7811 Please see "Taps" menu for obituary. |
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22 May 2004
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Buck
Buchanan in Hospice Buck is not doing well. Beginning in his esophagus, cancer has now spread over his entire body. The doctors have given him just days or weeks to live—perhaps months. Buck is in severe pain, has no appetite, and accepts no visitors. He will be placed in a hospice for the next few weeks. Anyone wishing to contact Buck or his family should send letters and cards to: Buck and Kay Buchanan, 160 Greenwich Cir. , Vacaville, CA 95688 As most of you know, Buck was one of the most memorable, and interesting characters in the Firebirds. One did not want to engage Buck in a dart game at Sondrestrom, regardless of Buck’s condition—he was deadly. Buck is a great guy, an excellent pilot, and in the end he will truly be missed by all that had the privilege of knowing him. Please pass the word to those that may not be in the current Firebird address book. Info courtesy of Bill Bless
Buck celebrating last flight at Sondrestrom. (Photo courtesy of Greg
Robinson.) |
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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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25 Jan 2004
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Buck Buchanan in Hospital –
Dave
(Buck) Buchanan is ill. He's been in the hospital for two Received
from Dick Henry on 25 Jan 04. |
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18 Dec 2003
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15 Dec 2003
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Bettye
Heifner Arrangments: My father asked me to send information regarding the arrangements that have been made for my mother.
Friends visitation will be held at Carmichael Funeral Home located at 1130 Whitlock Ave., Marietta, GA. on Wednesday, December 17, 2003, between the hours of 7pm to 9 pm.
Funeral services will be held at the Roswell Street Baptist Church located at 774 Roswell Street, Marietta, GA. on Thursday, December 18th, at 3pm.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Salvation Army, or to the Roswell St. Baptist Church.
You are all to be commended for your great support of my mother and father during this difficult time. You are appreciated very much.
Fondly,
Carole Nichols |
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15 Dec 2003
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Death
of Bettye Heifner: Bettye Heifner, wife of Col. Charles
Heifner passed away this morning, December 15th, at 0415 hours. The funeral will be held on December
18th, at Caramichael Funeral Home, 1130 Whitlock, Marietta, Ga.
30064. Phone 770-424-4924. Burial will be in Shreveport, La. |
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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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16 Dec 02
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Tom Sommerville at Home
Tom Sommerville, former Firebird flight engineer in Alaska, is back home after an extended stay in the hospital. The doctor has told Tom that he has a 70% chance of a cure. If you would like to cheer Tom up, please give him a call at 940-549-4351. He lives in Graham, Texas. |
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11 Nov 02
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Tom
Sommerville in Hospital
Tom Sommerville, former Firebird flight engineer in Alaska—mid to late 1960’s, was diagnosed with AML Leukemia on November 5th, and will start therapy on Monday, November 11th at United Regional Health Care, Cancer Center in Wichita Falls, Texas. He will be hospitalized for three weeks. The address and phone number for United Regional Health Care: 1600 8th St Wichita Falls, TX 76301-3108 Phone: Tom will be taking chemo-therapy and his
immune system will be suppressed.
Therefore, he will not be allowed any visitors. However, he would like to hear from all of
his friends—phone calls will be allowed |
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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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9 Aug 02
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Subject:
Death of C.D. Melin
Just received another call from Bob Pinard just a few minutes ago, and it was an update on CD. He informed me that CD was transferred to his home today and died this evening around 7PM E. He asked me to send word to all of CD`s friends. CD will be created 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 CD, 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 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 much 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.
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Maj. Gen. Phil Oates,
Adjutant General for the Alaska National Guard, hands the 176th Wing flag to
incoming commander Brig. Gen. (Sel) Gene Ramsay, as a sign of the trust and promise
extended to him in this new and important assignment. (Photo courtesy -
Alaska Air National Guard). |
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Jan. 4, 2002
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Reunion
Regrets
From: dacheson@mail.unomaha.edu We will be absent this year. Best wishes to everyone.. Denny and Melba D. K. Acheson |
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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 Pilot
Gary 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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