Subj: Thank you Veterans
Date: 11/11/2005 6:40:39 AM Central Standard Time
From: christywinchester
To: VW1Association
I would like to take this opportunity to say 'Thank You' to all the Veterans, current and future for the freedom we experience in our country. Thank you for keeping us free and protected. Thank you to the families of Veterans that also sacrificed for the same freedom. God Bless You All!
Thank you,
Christy Winchester
From: Scott Bates
To: metzgers
Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2005 5:05 AM
Subject: Hello
An introduction is in order here. My name is Scott Bates. I am retired Air Force, but my childhood was all Navy. My father was LCdr Robert (Bob) Bates, A/C of TE-4 between 1965 and 1967. That was his second tour with VW-1 actually, he was also assigned to VW-3 from 1960 till it was decommisioned, at which time he began his first tour with VW-1. My father retired in 1969 at NAS Pensacola, Sherman Field, after serving with VT-10. Unfortunately I lost him in 1974 when he and my older brother were killed in an accident. My mother, Barbara Bates, is still with us, living with my sister and her husband in Reston, Virginia.
I just wanted to say hello, and pass along my thanks for a short trip down memory lane. I will visit the site often, and am going to send the site address to my sister, because I think my mother might like to take a look at it also.
In my father's memory, I salute you. Thank you for everything here.
Sincerely
Scott Bates, Tsgt USAF/ Ret
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
From: Scott Bates
To: metzgers
Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2005 5:05 AM
Subject: Hello
An introduction is in order here. My name is Scott Bates. I am retired Air Force, but my childhood was all Navy. My father was LCdr Robert (Bob) Bates, A/C of TE-4 between 1965 and 1967. That was his second tour with VW-1 actually, he was also assigned to VW-3 from 1960 till it was decommisioned, at which time he began his first tour with VW-1. My father retired in 1969 at NAS Pensacola, Sherman Field, after serving with VT-10. Unfortunately I lost him in 1974 when he and my older brother were killed in an accident. My mother, Barbara Bates, is still with us, living with my sister and her husband in Reston, Virginia.
I just wanted to say hello, and pass along my thanks for a short trip down memory lane. I will visit the site often, and am going to send the site address to my sister, because I think my mother might like to take a look at it also.
In my father's memory, I salute you. Thank you for everything here.
Sincerely
Scott Bates, Tsgt USAF/ Ret
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
From: Jeff Winthrope
To: Metzgers
Sent: Monday, May 02, 2005 1:55 AM
Subject: VW-1 Squadron Members
Hello.
I just found the VW-1 web site. Thank you for memorializing that great group of men.
I would like to be included in your roster. When I was assigned to the squadron I was initially posted as a flight engineer. However, I was reassigned as the assistant Maintenance Chief. That didn't last too long, because the Maintenance Officer and I did not "get along". It's been a long time ago, and I have forgotten his name. I do recall that he was a "senior LDO". He booted me out of maintenance because I refused to "turn his desk calendar" every day. (I felt that was not a job for a CPO). After that I was assigned to the personnel division as the "Career Counselor". Getting out of his sights was fine with me, and I think that I was able to help many of our squadron mates plan their futures, both in & out of the Navy.
While assigned to VW-1 I was known as: AMHC Jeff G. Winthrope. I think it's ironic that while in VW-1 I was recommended for promotion to LDO, and was selected in 1965. I will always think that the major factor in that selection was the service I provided my shipmates when they had decisions to make. I hope those decisions proved to be helpful. I retired after 28 years as a Lieutenant Commander.
I am now a cattle rancher in Texas. I have just about quit the cattle business as I am now 75 years old (young?) I still enjoy working the land and would enjoy a visit from any VW-! warriors.
I am so glad to have found your site. Thank you for maintaining it.
Jeff
Subj: Some VW-1 History
Date: 12/14/2004 6:15:06 AM Central Standard Time
From: melvin davidow
Mr. Metzger,
I was one of plankowners in the Special Project Division, Air Operations Dept, NS Sangley Point in 1951, flying the Martin Mercator P4M-1Q. My PPC was LT Ralph Dannettell. LT Dannettell was relieved as our PPC by LT Dick Gaibler in 1953. The unit was administratively designated VW-1,Detachment Able, from April 22, 1953 until June, 1954. Later CDR Gaibler was CO of VW-1, 1962-63, and was relieved as CO by CDR Dannettell who was CO of VW-1, 1963-64.
Here is some interesting history of VW-1 that was reported in a Grampa Pettibone article in Naval Aviation News. I am trying to contact anyone who was on the plane, was involved in anyway with this incident, or knows the present whereabouts of anyone involved.
I would like to give CDR Dannettell a gift of a membership in the VW-1 All Hands Alumni Association and also send him info on the 2005 reunion. Please let me know how I may do this.
Mel Davidow, LT USNR (Ret)
Subj: Home Page
Date: 11/23/2004 10:47:58 AM Central Standard Time
File: 77231-TE-5Today.jpg (119744 bytes) DL Time (26400 bps): 1 minute
Morning Pete,
I happened to hit the Photograph of the PB-1W on the Home Page. The Bu No. of TE-5 is 77231. That aircraft has been restored to its original B-17G configuration and is presently on display at the "AF Armament Museum" at Eglin AFB, Florida. I was the Crew Chief of 77231/TE-5 during our deployment to Korea in 1953. The attached photograph is of me and old 77231/TE-5 taken at the Museum in November 2003.
You should hear from Scott Thompson as he has responded to my e-mails in the past. It looks like the name of the author of the article is J. Baugher. I attempted to find an e-mail address for a J. Baugher but the are too many listed.
I also found some information on Ronald Paul. His rate was CTCM? He retired from the Navy in November 1967 after 21 years. He is presently 76 years old.
If you ever need to find someone go to the Naval Memorial Foundation's Web Site "Navy Log" at: www.lonesailor.org/log_intro.php. If the person has submitted his name you will find information on them and possibly a photograph. You can also send them a stamped letter enclosed in an envelope and they will sent it to the last address they have on that person.
Have a nice day.
George
Subj: Re: Site Link
Date: 10/23/2004 12:02:44 PM Central Standard Time
Hello Pete,
Thank you for your email. Adding your website to our links page shouldn't be a problem. Our website is managed by a company called Klein and Stump. The home page for the VQ Association is: kleinandstump.com/vq/vqmain.htm. I will ask our website manager to put your website on our links page.
There is indeed a bond of commonality between VW-1 and VQ-1. Type of aircraft, deployment sites, personnel rotations between the units and as you point out, the inception of VQ as a detachment of VW-1 to the incorporation of VW-1 into VQ-1 in 1971 all contributed to this bond. One of my first plane commander's (Norm Bull) in VQ-1 in the early 60s went on to become CO of VW-1 in 1971. I also remember some flights I made in VQ-1 in the 60s with TE painted on our tail!
I wish you continued success with your association.
Sincerely,
Allan "Putt" Prevette
Secretary, VQ Association
Sent: Sunday, October 17, 2004 11:12 AM
Subject: Congrats!!
Hi,
I was surfing and found your website. I must commend you on a fine site. I am retired Air Force, my first assignment (1969 - 1970) was to the 552nd AEW&C Wing at McClellan AFB, CA with the EC-121D and my second assignment (1970 - 1972) was with the 54th Weather Recon Sq at Anderson AFB, Guam - Typhoon Hunters. I will always have a fond spot in my heart for the Connie.
Respectfully,
George A. Rader, MSgt, USAF (Ret)
Steve Birdman (1/26/04) "I read some of the history of the squadron on the web site. I noticed where it
was written that on 1 July 1961 the assignment of flying typhoon missions first commenced. We actually flew
some Typhoon patrols in 1959 or 1960. At the time the Air Force had a Weather Squadron of WB-50's based at
Anderson AFB. They had a lot of maintenance problems with their aircraft, which caused numerous mission aborts,
so VW-1 (and I believe VW-3) were assigned to fly some of the typhoon patrols in their stead."
Subj: Thanks
Date: 3/2/2003 2:45:24 PM Central Standard Time
Thanks for the photo of PB-1W TE-5 and the information.
There is another VW-1 PB-1W still flying today. BU. NO. 77235 (I was the crew chief when it was flown from Barbers Point to NAF Litchfield Park Arizona for storage in January 1955) has been reconverted back to B-17G Ser No. 44-83872 and is flown by the "Confederate Air Force" out of Houston Texas as N7227C.
George Stewart
Subj: TE-5 photo
Date: 2/28/2003 3:18:24 PM Central Standard Time
Hi Pete,
The web site is looking better every day.
The PB-1W TE-5 photograph you have on the home page is BU. No. 77231. Could you sent me a copy of that photograph? That is one of the two aircraft I flew in Korea in 1953. It is currently on display at Eglin AFB in Florida but has been reconverted back to B-17G Ser No. 44-83863 which was its original Ser No. before being transferred to the Navy.
Regards,
George
(stewart)
Subj: VW-1 (what else??)
Date: 2/23/2003 6:14:56 PM Central Standard Time
To: VW1Association@aol.com
Hi, Pete and Ed,
Finally took the time to explore the VW-1 Web Xite. What a fantastic job you've done getting it together! Also appreciate the obit page - saw some suprises there. One of the decedents is listed as +Bob Mueller" It should be: William J. Mueller, CWO.
I have a limited number of pictures taken at various locations around the Pacific which I shall scan in and get to you ASAP. I also have a brass plaque, unmounted on wood, which was made in the PI circa 1968, an extra which came into my possession because I bought 2 of them. The only reason I'd part with the unmounted one is that I have one mounted and hanging on my office wall. Will donate one when the need arises for inclusion in a museum. Does anyone remember the sign on the Ground Pounder Shack at Chu Lai, the one which read, "Illigitimi tatum non carborundum"? Will send a picture of that. I also have a 1967 Cruise Book.
Thanks again for all the memories, and we're planning to attend the Reno Bash in September, health willing.
Jay D. Hockenberry
VW-3, 1967-1968 AMH1
VW-1, 1968, 1969 CWO2
Subj: Re: Have not forgotten
Date: 2/14/2003 10:35:45 PM Central Standard Time
Dear Pete,
Wow, You have done alot of work on this website! I don't mind the advertising - can ignore it.
Does Cathie have a email address? If so can you give it to me?
Good job! I will continue to check it out. THANKS!
Sincerely,
Jan Arkfeld
Subj: From member John O'Brien
Date: 2/14/2003 2:15:11 PM Central Standard Time
To: VW1Association@aol.com
Howdy Pete:
Just fired-off a small msg to Ed & Sally in response to "Fatal Errors." Thanks for all the wonderful work done in setting-up the VW-1 Web Site. As I wrote to Ed, I appreciate the amount of work required to accomplish such a task.
Should you have the time maybe you can add the following info on me as this may help other members remember me:
John A O'Brien
Nickname: Jack
VW-1 TACAMO
Thanks - although I was in the TACAMO component of VW-1 we were all part of the same squadron. I enjoyed many friends in the squadron. "Guam is Good"
John
Subj: Re: Website
Date: 2/11/2003 8:41:24 PM Central Standard Time
I'm amazed that anyone would give up their VW-1 plaque as they were the best in the Nav. Mine is the same as you show, as were all the ones of my vintage. It is cast brass, probably done by the NavSta Guam metal folk, but maybe in the PI or Japan. In WestPac that sort of thing was readily available via cumshaw or business done on deployments. My own plaque hangs proudly on the wall over my left shoulder, as I type. Perhaps you should put out a warning to folks about these plaques, though.
After 30 years of service the 3m contact cement used to secure the large and heavy brass squadron crest to the monkey pod gave way. I was lucky that nothing was below the plaque, particularly body parts, as it came down, edge first, hard and fast. I have re-glued it with more modern adhesives and all is fine now. Wouldn't want VW-1ers to start falling victim to their own memorabilia now would we. :-)
Yup, PPC is Patrol Plane Commander and that is most definitely VP.
Perhaps I misread Capt. Bull's entry where it looked like he was a Metro. IF that's what it said, then I'm sure Typhoon Jack Hansen (Metro Dept. Head) will be coughing and gagging as we speak. Glad to see Jack has joined.
One note, one of my old civilian bosses was a fellow named Joe Schwind. As a very young sailor in the late 40s he was in VW-1 when it had the PO-1s and saw both the B-17 and Connies in the squadron. He died, very unexpectedly, 4 years ago; I'm sorry he didn't get a chance to be involved in the group.
Again, you've got the site pretty well organized, and it's stuff that people would want to use. Just having 2 ways to access the membership was pretty clever/useful.
Rick Clarke, 70-71
Subj: VW-1
Date: 2/4/2003 1:36:27 PM Central Standard Time
Hello Pete,
How's things over at your end of the world? I think you're doing a great job with the VW-1 website. I've looked at it a couple of times.
What do you think about adding a guestbook?
Larry Morris '62-'64
Subj: VW-1 fotos
Date: 1/12/2003 11:43:26 AM Central Standard Time
Hi Pete,
I am attaching two fotos for you to use at the VW-1 website if you wish. As I mentioned before, one is TE-8 flying low near squadron area on Guam in 1961, taken from the ground. The other one is a computer generated shot of the interior with me and Jim Fortney at the radar position. Im the one seated, Fortney behind me. The two of us (current fotos of us) were "planted" there in the interior by a friend of mine. You may not wish to use it as a result. Its just a little spooky.... 40 years later. Fortney was an AT2 at the time I think, and so was I. Anyway, feel free to use (or not) anyway you wish. If you need more info let me know
Pete, One more thing, the BUNO for TE-8 was 145928 if that helps.
Jerry Kastigar
VW-1 1960 -61
Subj: Re: VW-1 Association website
Date: 1/8/2003 1:40:33 PM Central Standard Time
Good on you Pete!
I looked over what you have so far and I liked it. I could not see any of the pictured items on the Ships Store page. ??? Maybe my problem but I didn't have any problem with the other pages.
I'll send you some digital pictures for the web page.
See you in Reno, good Lord willing
Jim Tandy
Subj: Re: VW-1 Association website
Date: 1/8/2003 12:08:54 PM Central Standard Time
Pete, this looks good to me . Thanks for standing watch!
BT
Subj: Website & Photos
Date: 1/8/2003 5:12:20 PM Central Standard Time
Hi Pete,
Nice job on the new Website. I have finally made contact with Earles. I now have a Photo program that I can convert photographs to JPEG, etc. If you would like me to convert any of the photographs I sent you just let me know. I am sending two photographs with this message as a try out. Please let me know if you have any trouble receiving them.
1. Oct. 24, 1952: VW-1 PB-1W Bu No. 77137/TE-2 landing at NAS Barbers Point
2. Feb. 11, 1953: VW-1 Det. PB-1W Bu No. 77226/TE-4 in route to Guam. Taken from Bu No. 77231/TE-5.
George Stewart
Subj: VW 1
Date: 1/8/2003 11:43:14 PM Central Standard Time
Site looks good. Over the next few weeks I will try to get a couple pictures to you. Thanks for doing this project.
Bill Fellers
Subj: Thanks
Date: 1/8/2003 3:58:07 AM Central Standard Time
That is a beautiful picture of 6. My crew the second time in the squadron. Keep up the good work.
Ben Steers
Subj: Re: VW-1 website
Date: 1/6/2003 11:13:42 PM Central Standard Time
Good job! The only thing I had any trouble with was the "Store" pictures. They were blocked by my Symantec ad blocker I believe. The Lone Star Inn must have been, or the predecessor to the later Lone Star Bar in the alley going up to the the bus station. Somehow this stuff dont look the same when youre sober and in the daylight! HA! CU
Ed Kane
Subj: Re: VW-1 Assoc website
Date: 1/6/2003 8:10:13 PM Central Standard Time
Pete---I agree, an Obituary page would also be an Honor page as an Obituary is sort of a final Honor. And it would be a great help for survivors or members or readers of the site to send in the Obituaries of any past members of VW-1. Past and present pictures of the member would help draw interest also. You could, someplace in the "WE REMEMBER" page say something like,"Please send in any past and present info and pictures, and if you have it, an Obituary for deseased members of Navy VW Squadrons." Pete, if you got info on members of other squadrons, you could contact the other VW Web sites and for your kindness, they would probably reciprocate and you would and could gather from a wider area background. Many VW Sailors served in more than one VW outfit and maybe are more remembered from a different outfit. Example--"he got married while serving in VW-15 and never went back to VW 1." His family would remember VW 15 and may not think about VW 1. Just a thought,--- might help.
Here I am, getting "Windy" again---but I just want your efforts to work.
Take Care & God Bless,
Nancy & Carl Logdahl
Date: 11/11/2005 6:40:39 AM Central Standard Time
From: christywinchester
To: VW1Association
I would like to take this opportunity to say 'Thank You' to all the Veterans, current and future for the freedom we experience in our country. Thank you for keeping us free and protected. Thank you to the families of Veterans that also sacrificed for the same freedom. God Bless You All!
Thank you,
Christy Winchester
Subj: Memory Page on your site
Date: 11/3/2005 8:08:13 PM Central Standard Time
From: christywinchester
To: VW1Association
Hi Pete,
I found your website by searching my uncle's name. My uncle was LaVerne Greiner AEC, shot down by two Migs over
the Sea of Japan on 15 April 1969. I would be honored if you would add his photo to your pages. I would also be
extremely interested if anybody else visiting your site, or a member of your association, may have known my
uncle.
I just returned from DC, for a POW/MIA briefing with out much more knowledge than when I went up there. I am
finding more on the internet, I think. The Navy will be sending me his military records and medals but I want
to find some of his friends.
Thanks for the information you have on your site. I will visit often.
God Bless
Christy Winchester
Site Managers Note: A memorial to L A Greiner has been added to our memorial page. L A flew in VW-1 with crew
6 as flight electrician in 1964.
To contact Christy send your request to the site manager.
To contact Christy send your request to the site manager.
Subj: Information about the typhoon trackers post card
Date: 8/13/2005 7:41:54 AM Central Standard Time
From: craig holt
To: VW1Association
Pete
The post card I sent you was post marked May 16 1967 Naval air station, and I think I purchased it at the small
exchange there. I sent this post card to my mother who passed away a few years ago and I found it in a scrap
book she had.
Craig
Site Managers Note: Here is the post card that Craig sent. Craig, many thanks for sharing this with us.
To: metzgers
Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2005 5:05 AM
Subject: Hello
An introduction is in order here. My name is Scott Bates. I am retired Air Force, but my childhood was all Navy. My father was LCdr Robert (Bob) Bates, A/C of TE-4 between 1965 and 1967. That was his second tour with VW-1 actually, he was also assigned to VW-3 from 1960 till it was decommisioned, at which time he began his first tour with VW-1. My father retired in 1969 at NAS Pensacola, Sherman Field, after serving with VT-10. Unfortunately I lost him in 1974 when he and my older brother were killed in an accident. My mother, Barbara Bates, is still with us, living with my sister and her husband in Reston, Virginia.
I just wanted to say hello, and pass along my thanks for a short trip down memory lane. I will visit the site often, and am going to send the site address to my sister, because I think my mother might like to take a look at it also.
In my father's memory, I salute you. Thank you for everything here.
Sincerely
Scott Bates, Tsgt USAF/ Ret
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Subj: Information about the typhoon trackers post card
Date: 8/13/2005 7:41:54 AM Central Standard Time
From: craig holt
To: VW1Association
Pete
The post card I sent you was post marked May 16 1967 Naval air station, and I think I purchased it at the small
exchange there. I sent this post card to my mother who passed away a few years ago and I found it in a scrap
book she had.
Craig
Site Managers Note: Here is the post card that Craig sent. Craig, many thanks for sharing this with us.
To: metzgers
Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2005 5:05 AM
Subject: Hello
An introduction is in order here. My name is Scott Bates. I am retired Air Force, but my childhood was all Navy. My father was LCdr Robert (Bob) Bates, A/C of TE-4 between 1965 and 1967. That was his second tour with VW-1 actually, he was also assigned to VW-3 from 1960 till it was decommisioned, at which time he began his first tour with VW-1. My father retired in 1969 at NAS Pensacola, Sherman Field, after serving with VT-10. Unfortunately I lost him in 1974 when he and my older brother were killed in an accident. My mother, Barbara Bates, is still with us, living with my sister and her husband in Reston, Virginia.
I just wanted to say hello, and pass along my thanks for a short trip down memory lane. I will visit the site often, and am going to send the site address to my sister, because I think my mother might like to take a look at it also.
In my father's memory, I salute you. Thank you for everything here.
Sincerely
Scott Bates, Tsgt USAF/ Ret
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
To: Metzgers
Sent: Monday, May 02, 2005 1:55 AM
Subject: VW-1 Squadron Members
Hello.
I just found the VW-1 web site. Thank you for memorializing that great group of men.
I would like to be included in your roster. When I was assigned to the squadron I was initially posted as a flight engineer. However, I was reassigned as the assistant Maintenance Chief. That didn't last too long, because the Maintenance Officer and I did not "get along". It's been a long time ago, and I have forgotten his name. I do recall that he was a "senior LDO". He booted me out of maintenance because I refused to "turn his desk calendar" every day. (I felt that was not a job for a CPO). After that I was assigned to the personnel division as the "Career Counselor". Getting out of his sights was fine with me, and I think that I was able to help many of our squadron mates plan their futures, both in & out of the Navy.
While assigned to VW-1 I was known as: AMHC Jeff G. Winthrope. I think it's ironic that while in VW-1 I was recommended for promotion to LDO, and was selected in 1965. I will always think that the major factor in that selection was the service I provided my shipmates when they had decisions to make. I hope those decisions proved to be helpful. I retired after 28 years as a Lieutenant Commander.
I am now a cattle rancher in Texas. I have just about quit the cattle business as I am now 75 years old (young?) I still enjoy working the land and would enjoy a visit from any VW-! warriors.
I am so glad to have found your site. Thank you for maintaining it.
Jeff
I believe the name of the Maintenace Officer you are referring to is CDR Jim Braden.
Date: 12/14/2004 6:15:06 AM Central Standard Time
From: melvin davidow
Mr. Metzger,
I was one of plankowners in the Special Project Division, Air Operations Dept, NS Sangley Point in 1951, flying the Martin Mercator P4M-1Q. My PPC was LT Ralph Dannettell. LT Dannettell was relieved as our PPC by LT Dick Gaibler in 1953. The unit was administratively designated VW-1,Detachment Able, from April 22, 1953 until June, 1954. Later CDR Gaibler was CO of VW-1, 1962-63, and was relieved as CO by CDR Dannettell who was CO of VW-1, 1963-64.
Here is some interesting history of VW-1 that was reported in a Grampa Pettibone article in Naval Aviation News. I am trying to contact anyone who was on the plane, was involved in anyway with this incident, or knows the present whereabouts of anyone involved.
I would like to give CDR Dannettell a gift of a membership in the VW-1 All Hands Alumni Association and also send him info on the 2005 reunion. Please let me know how I may do this.
Mel Davidow, LT USNR (Ret)
Mel: Gift memberships have been done in the past, just print out the membership
application form and follow the instructions on the rest of the form.
Date: 11/23/2004 10:47:58 AM Central Standard Time
File: 77231-TE-5Today.jpg (119744 bytes) DL Time (26400 bps): 1 minute
Morning Pete,
I happened to hit the Photograph of the PB-1W on the Home Page. The Bu No. of TE-5 is 77231. That aircraft has been restored to its original B-17G configuration and is presently on display at the "AF Armament Museum" at Eglin AFB, Florida. I was the Crew Chief of 77231/TE-5 during our deployment to Korea in 1953. The attached photograph is of me and old 77231/TE-5 taken at the Museum in November 2003.
You should hear from Scott Thompson as he has responded to my e-mails in the past. It looks like the name of the author of the article is J. Baugher. I attempted to find an e-mail address for a J. Baugher but the are too many listed.
I also found some information on Ronald Paul. His rate was CTCM? He retired from the Navy in November 1967 after 21 years. He is presently 76 years old.
If you ever need to find someone go to the Naval Memorial Foundation's Web Site "Navy Log" at: www.lonesailor.org/log_intro.php. If the person has submitted his name you will find information on them and possibly a photograph. You can also send them a stamped letter enclosed in an envelope and they will sent it to the last address they have on that person.
Have a nice day.
George
Thanks George, I will change the picture tag from "buno unknown" to 77231.
Date: 10/23/2004 12:02:44 PM Central Standard Time
Hello Pete,
Thank you for your email. Adding your website to our links page shouldn't be a problem. Our website is managed by a company called Klein and Stump. The home page for the VQ Association is: kleinandstump.com/vq/vqmain.htm. I will ask our website manager to put your website on our links page.
There is indeed a bond of commonality between VW-1 and VQ-1. Type of aircraft, deployment sites, personnel rotations between the units and as you point out, the inception of VQ as a detachment of VW-1 to the incorporation of VW-1 into VQ-1 in 1971 all contributed to this bond. One of my first plane commander's (Norm Bull) in VQ-1 in the early 60s went on to become CO of VW-1 in 1971. I also remember some flights I made in VQ-1 in the 60s with TE painted on our tail!
I wish you continued success with your association.
Sincerely,
Allan "Putt" Prevette
Secretary, VQ Association
Subject: Congrats!!
Hi,
I was surfing and found your website. I must commend you on a fine site. I am retired Air Force, my first assignment (1969 - 1970) was to the 552nd AEW&C Wing at McClellan AFB, CA with the EC-121D and my second assignment (1970 - 1972) was with the 54th Weather Recon Sq at Anderson AFB, Guam - Typhoon Hunters. I will always have a fond spot in my heart for the Connie.
Respectfully,
George A. Rader, MSgt, USAF (Ret)
Subj: Thanks
Date: 3/2/2003 2:45:24 PM Central Standard Time
Thanks for the photo of PB-1W TE-5 and the information.
There is another VW-1 PB-1W still flying today. BU. NO. 77235 (I was the crew chief when it was flown from Barbers Point to NAF Litchfield Park Arizona for storage in January 1955) has been reconverted back to B-17G Ser No. 44-83872 and is flown by the "Confederate Air Force" out of Houston Texas as N7227C.
George Stewart
Date: 2/28/2003 3:18:24 PM Central Standard Time
Hi Pete,
The web site is looking better every day.
The PB-1W TE-5 photograph you have on the home page is BU. No. 77231. Could you sent me a copy of that photograph? That is one of the two aircraft I flew in Korea in 1953. It is currently on display at Eglin AFB in Florida but has been reconverted back to B-17G Ser No. 44-83863 which was its original Ser No. before being transferred to the Navy.
Regards,
George
(stewart)
Date: 2/23/2003 6:14:56 PM Central Standard Time
To: VW1Association@aol.com
Hi, Pete and Ed,
Finally took the time to explore the VW-1 Web Xite. What a fantastic job you've done getting it together! Also appreciate the obit page - saw some suprises there. One of the decedents is listed as +Bob Mueller" It should be: William J. Mueller, CWO.
I have a limited number of pictures taken at various locations around the Pacific which I shall scan in and get to you ASAP. I also have a brass plaque, unmounted on wood, which was made in the PI circa 1968, an extra which came into my possession because I bought 2 of them. The only reason I'd part with the unmounted one is that I have one mounted and hanging on my office wall. Will donate one when the need arises for inclusion in a museum. Does anyone remember the sign on the Ground Pounder Shack at Chu Lai, the one which read, "Illigitimi tatum non carborundum"? Will send a picture of that. I also have a 1967 Cruise Book.
Thanks again for all the memories, and we're planning to attend the Reno Bash in September, health willing.
Jay D. Hockenberry
VW-3, 1967-1968 AMH1
VW-1, 1968, 1969 CWO2
Date: 2/14/2003 10:35:45 PM Central Standard Time
Dear Pete,
Wow, You have done alot of work on this website! I don't mind the advertising - can ignore it.
Does Cathie have a email address? If so can you give it to me?
Good job! I will continue to check it out. THANKS!
Sincerely,
Jan Arkfeld
Date: 2/14/2003 2:15:11 PM Central Standard Time
To: VW1Association@aol.com
Howdy Pete:
Just fired-off a small msg to Ed & Sally in response to "Fatal Errors." Thanks for all the wonderful work done in setting-up the VW-1 Web Site. As I wrote to Ed, I appreciate the amount of work required to accomplish such a task.
Should you have the time maybe you can add the following info on me as this may help other members remember me:
John A O'Brien
Nickname: Jack
VW-1 TACAMO
Thanks - although I was in the TACAMO component of VW-1 we were all part of the same squadron. I enjoyed many friends in the squadron. "Guam is Good"
John
Date: 2/11/2003 8:41:24 PM Central Standard Time
I'm amazed that anyone would give up their VW-1 plaque as they were the best in the Nav. Mine is the same as you show, as were all the ones of my vintage. It is cast brass, probably done by the NavSta Guam metal folk, but maybe in the PI or Japan. In WestPac that sort of thing was readily available via cumshaw or business done on deployments. My own plaque hangs proudly on the wall over my left shoulder, as I type. Perhaps you should put out a warning to folks about these plaques, though.
After 30 years of service the 3m contact cement used to secure the large and heavy brass squadron crest to the monkey pod gave way. I was lucky that nothing was below the plaque, particularly body parts, as it came down, edge first, hard and fast. I have re-glued it with more modern adhesives and all is fine now. Wouldn't want VW-1ers to start falling victim to their own memorabilia now would we. :-)
Yup, PPC is Patrol Plane Commander and that is most definitely VP.
Perhaps I misread Capt. Bull's entry where it looked like he was a Metro. IF that's what it said, then I'm sure Typhoon Jack Hansen (Metro Dept. Head) will be coughing and gagging as we speak. Glad to see Jack has joined.
One note, one of my old civilian bosses was a fellow named Joe Schwind. As a very young sailor in the late 40s he was in VW-1 when it had the PO-1s and saw both the B-17 and Connies in the squadron. He died, very unexpectedly, 4 years ago; I'm sorry he didn't get a chance to be involved in the group.
Again, you've got the site pretty well organized, and it's stuff that people would want to use. Just having 2 ways to access the membership was pretty clever/useful.
Rick Clarke, 70-71
Date: 2/4/2003 1:36:27 PM Central Standard Time
Hello Pete,
How's things over at your end of the world? I think you're doing a great job with the VW-1 website. I've looked at it a couple of times.
What do you think about adding a guestbook?
Larry Morris '62-'64
Date: 1/12/2003 11:43:26 AM Central Standard Time
Hi Pete,
I am attaching two fotos for you to use at the VW-1 website if you wish. As I mentioned before, one is TE-8 flying low near squadron area on Guam in 1961, taken from the ground. The other one is a computer generated shot of the interior with me and Jim Fortney at the radar position. Im the one seated, Fortney behind me. The two of us (current fotos of us) were "planted" there in the interior by a friend of mine. You may not wish to use it as a result. Its just a little spooky.... 40 years later. Fortney was an AT2 at the time I think, and so was I. Anyway, feel free to use (or not) anyway you wish. If you need more info let me know
Pete, One more thing, the BUNO for TE-8 was 145928 if that helps.
Jerry Kastigar
VW-1 1960 -61
Date: 1/8/2003 1:40:33 PM Central Standard Time
Good on you Pete!
I looked over what you have so far and I liked it. I could not see any of the pictured items on the Ships Store page. ??? Maybe my problem but I didn't have any problem with the other pages.
I'll send you some digital pictures for the web page.
See you in Reno, good Lord willing
Jim Tandy
Date: 1/8/2003 12:08:54 PM Central Standard Time
Pete, this looks good to me . Thanks for standing watch!
BT
Date: 1/8/2003 5:12:20 PM Central Standard Time
Hi Pete,
Nice job on the new Website. I have finally made contact with Earles. I now have a Photo program that I can convert photographs to JPEG, etc. If you would like me to convert any of the photographs I sent you just let me know. I am sending two photographs with this message as a try out. Please let me know if you have any trouble receiving them.
1. Oct. 24, 1952: VW-1 PB-1W Bu No. 77137/TE-2 landing at NAS Barbers Point
2. Feb. 11, 1953: VW-1 Det. PB-1W Bu No. 77226/TE-4 in route to Guam. Taken from Bu No. 77231/TE-5.
George Stewart
Date: 1/8/2003 11:43:14 PM Central Standard Time
Site looks good. Over the next few weeks I will try to get a couple pictures to you. Thanks for doing this project.
Bill Fellers
Date: 1/8/2003 3:58:07 AM Central Standard Time
That is a beautiful picture of 6. My crew the second time in the squadron. Keep up the good work.
Ben Steers
Date: 1/6/2003 11:13:42 PM Central Standard Time
Good job! The only thing I had any trouble with was the "Store" pictures. They were blocked by my Symantec ad blocker I believe. The Lone Star Inn must have been, or the predecessor to the later Lone Star Bar in the alley going up to the the bus station. Somehow this stuff dont look the same when youre sober and in the daylight! HA! CU
Ed Kane
Date: 1/6/2003 8:10:13 PM Central Standard Time
Pete---I agree, an Obituary page would also be an Honor page as an Obituary is sort of a final Honor. And it would be a great help for survivors or members or readers of the site to send in the Obituaries of any past members of VW-1. Past and present pictures of the member would help draw interest also. You could, someplace in the "WE REMEMBER" page say something like,"Please send in any past and present info and pictures, and if you have it, an Obituary for deseased members of Navy VW Squadrons." Pete, if you got info on members of other squadrons, you could contact the other VW Web sites and for your kindness, they would probably reciprocate and you would and could gather from a wider area background. Many VW Sailors served in more than one VW outfit and maybe are more remembered from a different outfit. Example--"he got married while serving in VW-15 and never went back to VW 1." His family would remember VW 15 and may not think about VW 1. Just a thought,--- might help.
Here I am, getting "Windy" again---but I just want your efforts to work.
Take Care & God Bless,
Nancy & Carl Logdahl
I have been privilaged to receive several e-mails that indicate that Christy has been receiving information about her uncle LaVerne (L A) Greiner. Thanks to Allan "Putt" Prevette of the VQ association.