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Colonel Jack Goolsby, now among Ours Gone
June, 1988
This information provided by his son, John A. Goolsby III.
Dear J.C.,
My Dad passed away in June 1988. He came down with bone cancer in 1987. Of
course I was sad to lose my Dad, but found comfort in the fact that he had
lived such a full life. We used to deer and bird hunt together a lot, so we
had a lot of time to talk about his experiences.
After leaving Vietnam he was stationed at Maxwell AFB for two years. He
continued to fly C-47's as part of his assignment with the Civil Air Patrol.
His last co-pilot was the late LC Jack Stein of Houston, Texas. At Maxwell
he suffered a minor stroke which ended his flying career. At that point he
had logged more than 14,000 hours as a pilot. After he quit flying he often
remarked that he didn't want to fly anymore. He only rarely flew a
commercial airliner after that. He said that he had used up his 9 lives. I
remember that he would drive long distances throughout the US by car to
avoid flying. After Maxwell he had one more assignment at Rantoul AFB in
Illinois. He promoted to O-6 at Rantoul. At Rantoul he was in charge of a
training program. He retired in late 1970 and we moved back to Texas.
We lived in Austin for two years and then moved to my parent's hometown,
Brownsville, TX. In Brownsville he was employed by the City and a traffic
safety coordinator. He did the job pretty well and eventually became County
Judge of Cameron County. I think he was at his happiest as County Judge.
He managed a long campaign and was elected as a Democrat in county of
600,000 people. I think he fulfilled his dreams in this job. My Grandfather
had been the long time sheriff of this county in the 30's and 40's. Both
had a clear vision for how to lead and manage the county. Both left the
place more prosperous than they found it. Unfortunately, the cancer ended
his political career to soon.
Thanks for posting my Dad's obituary on the Our's Gone site. I would love
to hear from anyone else that had served with him. I have always
appreciated his service to the country. This sacrifice is even more
relevant given the task we face now against terrorism and extremists. I
believe the US military plays a huge role in worldwide stability. You
certainly did you part. I hope this message finds you well in Arkansas.
Thanks again for putting this site together.
All the best,
John A. Goolsby (III)
son of Jack
James "Bob" Line
Now with Ours Gone
This information received, March 28th, 2002 from the wife of Bob, via George
Montague.
Bob was with the 6994th Security Squadron at Tan Son Nhut in 1967/68. Bob
passed away in his sleep on Saturday, March 23rd 2002. He was buried with
full Military Honors.
Colonel John Ekwall
Now with Ours Gone
Colonel John Ekwall Retired to Riverside, California in 1994, with his
wife, Sandra after serving 27 years in the United States Air Force. He was
a prominent influence in the Riverside Community.
All who knew Colonel Ekwall admired him and were inspired by his constant
pursuit of excellence. He was acknowledged throughout his live and military
career as being a talented pilot, a motivating leader, the "epitome" of a
military officer and a compassionate friend.
Colonel Ekwall died April 25th after struggling with a year-long illness.
He was 56. Colonel Ekwall was born in San Jose, California and graduated
from Bellarmine College Preparatroy School. He graduated from San Jose
State University in 1968 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant. He
received his pilot's wings after graduating from pilot training at Webb
Air Force Base, Texas, 1969 and was soon off to serve our country in Vietnam
where he was affectionately known as "Big John".
He flew a heroic 147 combat missions in the EC-47 Gooney Bird. In 1971,
he began to fly the KC-135 tanker in countless combat missions in support
of Southeast Asia operations. Colonel Ekwall was awarded numberous medals
and was chosen to attend the Naval War College in Newport Rhode Island in
1980 and the Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama in 1988.
John had a personality and demeanor that drew people to him. Early in his
career his natural leadership ability caught the attention of his commanding
officers and became what the military calls a "fast burner." His career then
became a series of command positions where he led his troops in decorated
achievement, most notably winning the General Carl A. Spaatz Memorial Air
refueling Trophy while he was the commander of the 43rd Air Refueling
Squadron at Fairchild AFB, Washington. Because of his leadership, he repeated
this achievement as Director of Operations at Malstrom Air Force Base in
Montana.
From 1990 to 1992, his military career involved serving as Chief, SAC Battle
Staff for Desert Shield/Desert Storm directing all KC-135, KC-10 and B-52
aircraft deployed to Saudi Arabia. His final contribution was his
restructuring of SAC airlift operations into the new Air Mobility Command.
At his retirement ceremony in 1994, Major General John Sams stated the John
was "a great officer imminently successful in his military career" and "he
helped others achieve success with his personal attention to each individual."
John's love of family, reverence for nature, and appreciation of the simple
joys of life touched all who knew him. He approached his retirement as he
did his career, enjoying golf, gardening, painting and forever dreaming of
the best fishing spot. However, what he was most devoted to was his adored
wife and soulmate, Sandra. He will be forever missed by his beloved wife of
28 years, Sandra; his cherished children, LesLee Ekwall-Hacker; Joni Metzler
and Clayton Adams; his grandchildren, Jonathan & Lauren Hacker, Rebecca,
Bruno, & Nickolas Adams; his dear brother Bill Ekwall and Jim Ekwall.
A Memorial Celebration will be conducted at the Riverside National Cemetery
Thursday, May 2, 2002 at 10:00 A.M. Donations may be made in lieu of flowers
to the Riverside Chapter of the Retired Officer's Association Scholarship
Fund in Memory of Colonel John Ekwall, P.O. Box 163, Riverside, CA 92502
Lt. Col. Frank E. Hinkle
Lt. Colonel Frank E. Hinkle left us on July 15, 2002. He was an Aircraft Commander and Chief of Stand Eval with the 361st
Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Nha Trang from November 1966 until August, 1967. He had also flown the B-24's in
World War II.
I do not have all the particulars as yet, but this morning, August 1st, 2002, I received the letter, that in my
heart knew was coming, but did not want to receive. The letter was from the widow of Lt. Col. Hinkle telling me
that he had passed on July the 15th. She said he had learned this past fall that he had leukemia. I believe he
was 84 years of age.
We had remained in close contact until about the first of the year, then nothing. I received no reply on the
letter about the past reunion. I had not been able to make contact by phone for several months and really feared
something was wrong.
The funeral was with Full Military Honors at the National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix,
Arizona. His relatives from Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio were present.
This man, I first met in 1966 when he and I became 2 of the Ferry Flight Crew to bring one of
the first EC-47's (then RC-47's) to Vietnam. We were first assigned to the 360th Tactical
Electric Warfare Squadron at Tan Son Nhut. We remained here from September 8th, 1966 until he
was scheduled to move to Nha Trang and the 361st TEWS around November 1st, 1966.
I was scheduled to stay with the 360th at Tan Son Nhut, but the day before Col. Hinkle was to
depart for Nha Trang, he told me to have my bags packed in the morning, he was taking me with
him. Him, Pilot Major Harold R. Lagasse, Navigator Capt. Robert M. Harris and I went to the
new 361st where we became SEFE for our particular crew positions. Here too, we flew together
as a crew for the entire tour. We were the only crew to ferry an aircraft over, fly together
as a crew and come home together, so as far as I have been able to determine.
The Crew worked very well together and each member had full confidence in each of the other
members, as it should be. It was the leadership of Col. Hinkle that made this possible and he
was the bond that kept us together. He looked out for each of us as we did him. He was not
only a leader, he was a friend.
Lt. Col. Frank E. Hinkle, one of three men who had a most positive effect on my Air Force
Career and my Life, He will surely be missed.
Date of Birth: December 16th, 1918
Date of Death: July 15th, 2002
Bruial at: Section 50, Site 1262, National Cemetary of Arizona 23029 N.
Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, AZ 85204.
|
James C. Wheeler
Flight Mechanic
| Russell Love
Received From Jack Shelton.
The following death notice was published in the Lampasas Texas newspaper
today ( Aug 9, 2002). Russell Love was a Captain pilot in the 361st TEWS
until March of 1974. After his SEA tour he was assigned to SAC KC-135s
until returning to civilian life in Central Texas. Russell was an
outstanding business and community leader in Copperas Cove Texas near
Fort Hood. He had wonderful memories of his service as an Air Force
pilot and his time in the EC- 47s. It was only a few weeks ago while
attending his mother's funeral that I discovered Capt. Russell had
served with the 361st. At that time we talked about attending the
reunion together in September of 2003. His father who died several years
ago served during WW II as a C-46 and C-47 pilot flying the China Hump.
I had the pleasure of hanger flying with 87 year old Mr. Love many times
before his death never knowing his son Russell was an ex EC-47 driver.
Russell's death was unexpected, his big heart just failed. His brother
David said to me today, "It was broken over the death of his mother."
Perhaps we will be able to remember Russell and others who have departed
this life since our last reunion when we gather again.
Russell Allen Love, 58, of Copperas Cove died Aug. 6, 2002, at Metroplex
Hospital in Killeen.
Funeral services are Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. at East Side Baptist Church in
Copperas Cove with Bryan Hawkins officiating. Burial will follow at Oak
Hill Cemetery.
Mr. Love was born July 3, 1944, in Louisville, Ky., the son of Olen
Fisher and June Hargrave Love.
He was the secretary, treasurer and comptroller at Cove Ford in Copperas
Cove, where he was part owner with his brother and cousin.
Mr. Love graduated from Baylor University where he participated in the
ROTC program. He was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, serving in Vietnam,
Thailand and the Philippines. He also served with Strategic Air Command
stateside.
He was chairman of the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corp. He also
served on the board of directors of the Coryell County Salvation Army.
Mr. Love was a board member of the Chamber of Commerce, and was a member
of the Exchange Club in Copperas Cove.
He attended East Side Baptist Church in Copperas Cove, and had lived in
the area since 1978. Prior to that, he was reared in Lampasas.
He is survived by a brother and his wife, David and Karen Love, of
Lampasas; a nephew, Wes Love, of Chicago; and a niece, Mandy Love, of
Lubbock.
He was preceded in death by his father on Dec. 10, 1999, and by his
mother on July 23, 2002.
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| Col. James F. Casey
Retired Air Force Officer Col. James F. Casey died Sunday at
his home in Merced. He was born and raised in Dover, Mass.,
attended The Mass College of Pharmacy for four years and was
a registered pharmacist in Mass. He was a fighter pilot in
Europe during WWII, flying two combat Tours before spending
one year as a POW in Germany. After WWII, he graduated from
The University of Colorado with an engineering degree and it
was there that he met his future wife, Patricia Fountain of
Southfield, Michigan.
Military assignments transferred them around the world from
Saudi Arabia, Europe and the Far East to Washington D.C., Texas
and California where he retired as Base Commander, Castle AFB.
He was a graduate of Air Command Staff School and the Air War
College where he also earned an M/S in International Affairs at
George Washington University. After his Air Force career, he
worked for 12 years in hospital administration.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia and survived by
three children, Paul Casey of Birmingham, AL, Stephen Casey of
Modesto, CA, Gail Hansen of Merced, CA; and nine grandchildren.
Burial was on July 17, at Merced District Cemetery with Military
Honors being provided by Travis Air Force Base.
Col. Casey also served with the 361st Tactical Electronics
Warfare squadron at Nha Trang AB, Vietnam in 1966/67 as Operations
Officer.
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| Kenneth R. Weber
Regretfully, I have to inform the EC-47 Organization that
Kenneth R. Weber, a former navigator with the 361 TEWS died
on December 18, 2002. Ken was a 1967 Air Force Academy
graduate and also the holder of a MBA degree from UCLA.
He completed his tour of duty in Vietnam on December 20,
1969. He was then assigned to a navigator position flying
C141's out of McGuire AFB, NJ. One of the more unique
missions of his career was being assigned the lead navigator
position for the initial 1971 mission to Republic of China.
Among his many awards, he was the recipient of the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
Ken was married to Joan (Sullivan) Weber and they had two
children, Maggie a senior at Boston University and Michael
a senior in high school. Michael, who had received a U. S.
Congressional appointment to the Air Force Academy, was
selected for the AFA class of 2007 on December 18, 2002.
He is also survived by a brother Hank Weber and a sister
Lois Jordan.
He was very active in his community of Wantagh, New York
and was a member of both the Disabled American Veterans and
the American Legion. His involvement with assisting people
in need was noteworthy and specific recognition was given
to Ken for his work with the poor during his eulogy by the
priest from St. Frances de Chantal.
Ken was one of the special people that you are sometimes
graced with the opportunity to meet and have become part
of your life. He and I roomed together in Vietnam for our
entire tours of duty and we remained in close contact with
each other ever since. He was a good, honest and gentle
man and one of the bravest individuals I ever met.
Ken was 57 years old. Interment was in the Long Island
National Cemetery with the Air Force providing full Military
Honors.
Respectfully, submitted by Michael L. Moriarty,
Lt. Col. USAF Retired
|
Kenneth W. (Ken) Evans
Ken left us on 29 July 1973.
Ken was a member of the 361st Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at
Nha Trang in 1966/67. He served as the Squadron Mail Clerk. Ken and I were
room-mates from the first day I arrived at Nha Trang. We sometimes worked at the
NCO club from closing time until the cooks came in the next morning. The bar
was open to us during our work time too.
Ken and I shared many experiences while in Vietnam from the big generator fire accross
the street from our house, Number 2 Mei Lein. It was here that Ken almost lost his little
toe after the generator caught fire while he was refueling it. The time I slipped out back and
under his window while he was making one of those little tape recordings that were so popular
to his wife as opposed to writing a letter. I had my .38 revolver and let off three rounds
as quick as I could pull the trigger. Needless to say, he had to redo the tape recording.
Then there was the night we had the cyclo race. Big winnings on the slots in the club.
For the last couple months or so, we had comandered a 16 by 32 foot hooches, one of those that
had a 4 foot plywood wall then a couple of feet of screen wire and then the canvas
or tent top. It was just about a block from the NCO club and was not being used
so we moved in at no cost, getting out of the renting business. No one ever
noticed so we just stayed there.
He was a sincere friend and we shared many good times and a few bad times together.
We also shared a common hobby. Ken had a Model A Coupe he was restoring and I
had a 1929 Hudson 4 Door Sedan.
I hope someday make contact with Ken's family, I hope all is well with them.
I had written to Randolf AFB on 22 May, 2003, trying to locate Ken. This morning
10 June, 2003, the letter was returned to me with the following note: "We regret to
inform you that the individual you are trying to locate is deceased. The date of death
is: 29 July 73."
It does not seem possible that he could have been gone for 30 years. It seems
like only a few months since we were there. I do not know where Ken is resting
these days, maybe someday too, I will learn where. Rest in Peace, My Friend.
Robert L. Lowry
Robert left us in 1988.
Information received today, July 7, 2003 from Charles S. "Chuck" Tache,
Robert L. Lowry was born on June 19th, 1934 left us on August 7th, 1988 and
was burried with Full Military Honors on August 10th, 1988 in the Indiantown
Gap National Cemerety in Annville, Lebanon County Pennsylvaina in plot 11 1157.
Robert was an A29271 Radio Operator with the 6994th Security Squadron at
Tan Son Nhut in 1968/69.
Robert has joined Ours Gone.
May he forever rest in Peace.
Gene Howard
Gene left us in December, 2002.
Information received today, July 30, 2003 from Stanley W. States.
Gene Howard passed on in December 2002. He had been in ill health for some time.
Gene was a Pilot with the 360th Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Tan Son
Nhut from Jan. 1967 to Jan. 1968.
Stanley says, "We ferried an aircraft over leaving the states on Jan. 29th 1967
and it took us 47 days to get to Saigon. The record for the longest ferry mission.
Another has joined Ours Gone. May he rest in Peace.
Roosevelt F. Henderson
Received From Karl Hammerle, Thursday, August 07, 2003
Roosevelt F. Henderson
Born: March 21, 1934
Died: August 6, 2003
Memorialized by: Sunset Memorial Park & Funeral Home
Biography
SMSGT Roosevelt Franklin Henderson USAF (Ret.) born on March 21, 1934 in
Lettsworth, LA. He went to be with the Lord on August 6, 2003 at the age
of 69. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 28 years;
highly decorated Vietnam veteran, and U.S. Postal service worker for
over 15 years. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend
who will be greatly missed by all who loved him. He was preceded in
death by his parents Willis & Beatrice Henderson, sister Hazel Goff and
brother Joseph Henderson. He is survived by his wife Ann Henderson;
daughters Anna Henderson, April Henderson-Woods; sisters Izola Ennis and
Rosa Lee Byrd; brothers Willis Henderson Jr. and Morris Henderson;
grandchildren Christopher Barron, Ashleigh Barron, Brandon Barron, and
Christopher Alvarez; and a host of nieces and nephews and extended
family members. Visitation: 5:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. Friday, August 8 at Sunset
Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
with full military honors.
Karl Hammerle says SMSGT Henderson was assigned to the 6994th
Security Squadron on two assignments, one in the very early days
but the dates are not known.
Karl is now among Ours Gone, May he rest in Peace.
Paul G. Schultz
Paul left us on December 24th, 2001.
Information received today, August 12, 2003 from Jim Coffman, Paul G. Schultz
passed away on December 24th, 2001. Jim Coffman and Paul G. Schultz were on
the same Ferry Flight Crew and arrived at Nha Trang on March 1st, 1967.
Paul is now among Ours Gone, May He Rest in Peace.
Robert V. McKee
Robert left us in April 1981.
Information received today, August 12th, 2003 from Jim Coffman, Robert V.
McKee passed away on April 29th, 1981. Jim Coffman and Robert V. McKee were
on the same Ferry Flight Crew and arrived at Nha Trang on March 1st, 1967
Robert is now among Ours Gone, May he rest in Peace.
George Cupp
George left us in 1995.
Information received today, August 16th, 2003 from Jim Coffman.
George passed away on July 12th, 1995. He was a Flight Mechanic with
the 361st Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Nha Trang, 1967.
George, Jim and I were all with the 361st at Nha Trang together.
George has joined Ours Gone.
May he forever rest in Peace.
Robert M."Bob" Harris
Robert left us on April 5th, 2004.
Bob Harris retired as a Lt. Col. and was my Navigator for my tour with
the 361st Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Nha Trang AB Vietnam
in 1966/67. He was also one of the Navigators on our Ferry Flight over,
taking, I believe, the 6th EC-47 to arrive in country in September, 1966.
Information received from Bob's wife.
Bob was killed in an automobile accident at approximately 15:30 on April
15th, 2004 while driving his prize automobile, a Triumph TR-7 Sports Car.
Bob had stopped in traffic, I believe it was the scene of a traffic accident,
on US 67 between North Little Rock and Jacksonville where he was struck from
the rear by a driver who did not stop.
Bob's passing leave me as the sole survivor of the crew.
Date of Birth: December 22nd, 1935
Date of Death: April 5th, 2004
Burial at: Section C03 Site 35, Arkansas State Veterans Cemetary, 1501 West
Maryland, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72120-0000.
Bob has now joined Ours Gone.
May he forever rest in Peace.
Tom Henry
August 16th, 2004 - Received from: Peyton Northern, 202x0, USAF Retired, Det 1, 6994th (Nha Trang and Phu Cat) Aug 69-Aug70
I got a call from Jack Henry, Tom's brother saying that Tom had passed away. His family was at his side when he passed.
His wake was held at the Damar Funeral Home, 7861 South 88th Ave, Justice, IL 60458.
His funeral mass was at St Beeds Church, 8200 South Kostner, Chicago, IL.
Tom was married, his wife's name is Mary. He had two children, a boy and a girl. After leaving the Air Force he became a Chicago policeman until he passed away yesterday.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Jack Neelis
September 22nd, 2004 - Received from: Hugh Sinnock via Lewis Vincent
Word received is that Jack Neelis a Pilot with the TEWS Unit at NKP for most of 1971 had passed on in 1996.
Jack was from Bossier City, LA and left his wife Debbie.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Eugene (Gene) Halfman
December, 2004 - Received from: John House
John reported that Eugene (Gene) Halfman passed on in November of 2003.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Timothy J. Emmons
December, 2004 - Received from: Lora Emmons
January 29th, 2005. Received word from the wife of Timmothy J. Emmons saying that Timothy passed on
on December 27th, 2004. Timothy is now among "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Arthur "Art' Silvin
April, 2005 - Received from: The Daughter of Art Silvin
Information received that Arthur "Art" Silvin former AMS/IRO with Det.2, 6994th Security Squadron
at Pleiku and Danang, passed away on March 22, 2005 and buried in York, Pa on March 31st..
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Robert D. "Bob" Dutton
October 1st, 2005 - Received word via Danny Russell that Bob Dutton has now joined "Ours Gone".
I do not have the details but Bob was an Airborne Radio Intercept Operator with the 6994th
Security Suadron at Tan Son Nhut in 1968/69 and was living in West Linn, Oregon.
Burrial will be October 6th in the Willamette National Cemetary with full military honors.
October 4th, 2005 - Robert D. "Bob" Dutton, November 11, 1934 - October 1, 2005
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Merle J. Vernone
October 13th, 2005 - Received word Ann, the widow of Merle J. Vernone that Merle passed away
June 26th, 2005 and has now joined "Ours Gone".
I hope to have further on this later.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
David D. Davidson
November 13th, 2005 - Received word This is Claudine Davidson, via Lewis Davis. Sadly, I must inform
you that my husband David is not with us anymore. Dave passed away on his birthday, July 30, 2005.
He had been ill and in and out of the hospital for about 5 years. He had numerous illnesses but lately
his diabetes became uncontrollable and caused heart and liver failure. Claudine
David was always at our reunions.
David has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Bill Fridel
May 5th, 2006 - Received word from Paul Siler that Bill had recently passed away. Bill was wih Detachment
2, 6994th Security Squadron, he was 69 years old.
Bill has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Phil Carlson
May 5th, 2006 - Received word from Danny Russell that Phil had passed away on April 29th this year. Phil
assigned to Detachment 2, 6994th Security Squadron at Pleiku and was Squadron Commander, 1968/69..
Phil has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Leo A. Sanford Jr.
May 12th, 2006 - Received word from Shirley Sanford on the passing of her husband and one of ours, from the
362nd TEWS, S/Sgt Leo A Sanford, Jr, born: Jan. 17, 1937; died: July 15, 2005, from Agent Orange complications.
He was in Plieku 1966-67. He also was a military man til he died, always supported his VFW Post 5464, was
Commander for 2 years. Never forgot his friends "family" in the service.
Leo has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Colonel Alvin Lee Reeser
Colonel Alvin Lee Reeser, USAF (Ret.)
May 8, 2004
Colonel Alvin Lee Reeser, USAF (Ret.), passed away on May 8, 2004 in Huntsville, Alabama. He was born on
February 28, 1928 in Lakeland, Florida to Ernie and Susie Reeser. `
Al was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Don, and his grandson, Rex.
He was raised in Vero Beach, Florida and attended Auburn University where he played football. He left the
University to join the US Air Force Cadet Program in 1948. Later he graduated from the University of Arizona
as an honors graduate in Mechanical Engineering and went on to earn a Masters degree in Systems Management
from the University of Southern California.
Al was a decorated veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, where he flew over 200 combat missions as a
pilot. He retired from the Air Force in 1976 while serving as the Vice Commander at the Space and Missile Test
Center at Vandenberg AFB, California.
From 1976 to 1985, Al worked for Rockwell International as the General Manager of the Kennedy Space Center
Launch Operations. His team successfully processed, launched and recovered the first ten space shuttle flights.
He received the “Distinguished Public Service Award Medal”, the highest NASA award given for non-governmental service.
Al moved to Huntsville, Alabama in 1987 to be the Executive Vice President and General Manager of United Space
Boosters, Inc. where he received his second NASA “Distinguished Public Service Award Medal.”
In 1991, he became the President and CEO of SpaceHab, Inc. in Washington, DC, a firm that develops modules for
space-based research and cargo transportation on the US space shuttle fleet. The Reesers returned to Huntsville
in 1994 when Al retired.
Al will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Helen; his
three children, Becky Kuntz (Gregg) of Scottsdale, Arizona, Michael Reeser (Carroll) of Sweetwater, Texas, and
Don Reeser (Kimberly) of Maputo, Mozambique, Africa. He leaves seven grandchildren, Kristina Kuntz, Michael Kuntz,
Joe Reeser, Lauren Reeser, Katie Reeser, Matthew Reeser, and Susannah Reeser; and two sisters, Ruby Zeuch and
Joyce Northern, both of Vero Beach, Florida.
Information from Alvin's son Mike.
Alvin has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
>P>
CMSGT Charles W. Robb III
Charles W. Robb III, Chief MSGT, Retired, a resident of Montgomery, died on Nov. 29, 2004.
Mr. Robb is survived by his wife, Ann W. Robb; five children, Wayne Robb (Maureen) of North
Hampton, England; Karen Robb and John Robb, both of Milton Keyes, England; Mark Stacks (Janice)
of Dora and Scott Stacks of Dothan; one sister, Pamela A. Robb of Stewartson, Pa.; and five
grandchildren.
Funeral services for Mr. Robb were held on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004, at Valley Park Baptist Church,
Montgomery, at 4 p.m. with the Rev. Danny Powell officiating. Visitation was held one hour prior
to services.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, Dec. 2, 2004 at 2 p.m. at Rice Chapel Baptist Church
Cemetery in Bremen with full military honors.
Tribute for: Charles Robb III (montgomery, AL)
Tribute left by: Karen Robb (Montgomery, AL)
I would like to leave a tribute to my father Charles W Robb III who spent 25 years in the air
force and retired a CMSGT, my father died of cancer in 2004 aged 60, but I will never forget his
devotion to his country, I am half American half English and I will never forget how proud to be
an American my father was, he served in Vietnam and Pakistan and was totally devoted to the Air
Force, I just want to say Thank you Dad you showed me how to be a proud women. Love you Karen
Information from CMSGT Frank Bowley.
Charles has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
SSGT Warren F. Phinney Jr.
SSGT Warren F. Phinney Jr. passed away on March 28, 2006 due to complications from a surgery that
went bad. I thought you might add him to your roster and pass on the news for me.
Information received from Juanita C. Phinney
Warren has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
MSGT Gary D. Raymond
From the December FTVA, one of Fallen Eagles remembered was MSgt Gary D Raymond.
He was one of our Radio Operators in Nha Trang 66-67. Gary passed away on 9/22/06 following
"a long battle with heart and lung disease."
Information received from Ed Bendinelli.
Gary has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Colonel William Horn
Colonel William Horn passed away this morning. You can reach his son at (703)765-4928.
Colonel Horn was an early 360th TEWS Commander. I believe he followed Lt. Col. James Jelley
who was the first Commander of the 360th TEWS in 1966/67
This information recieved from Bob Graham via Chuck Sutton on Dec. 14th, 2006
I received the information below from John Mitchell today, December 20th, 2006
This wasn't published until today's Washington Post paper. John Mitchell
William "Bill" Horn Jr., 85, a retired Air Force colonel who also was an aviation consultant,
died Dec. 14 at his home in Alexandria. He had Parkinson's disease. Col. Horn, a native of
Flushing, N.Y., began his career as a pilot in the Army Air Forces during World War II. During
the next 30 years, he piloted planes that included C-47 transports and KC-135 jet tankers on
assignments that took him to Europe and Southeast Asia. In his final posting before retiring
from active duty in 1972, he was a liaison between the Air Force and the Federal Aviation
Administration.
His military decorations included the Legion of Merit and the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Col. Horn settled in the Mount Vernon area about the time he graduated in 1964 with a degree
in business administration from the University of Maryland. From 1973 to 1984, he worked as
manager of air space and air traffic control services for the National Business Aviation
Association Inc. in Washington. His hobbies included golfing and bowling. His wife of 46 years,
Carol Emory Horn, died in 1991. Survivors include three children, William C. Horn, Thomas Horn
and Patricia M. Horn-Cosgrave, all of Alexandria; two sisters; and three grandchildren.
WIlliam has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Joseph R. Harvey
December 20th, 2006. Received from, Joseph M. Harvey Lt. Col. and the son of
Joseph R. Harvey, one of ours.
Mr. Wheeler,
Lt Col Joseph R. Harvey was a pilot and Sq Ops Officer in 360th TEWS at Ton Son Nhut from
Jul 72-Dec 72, then at NKP in Thailand from Dec 72-Sep 73. I'd like to get more info about
the mission during that time. He also flew C123's at Ton Son Nhut in the 19 Special Ops Sq.
He passed away in 1978 and I just found a lot of old photos that I'll try to pass to you for posting.
Thanks, Joe
Joseph has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Keith W. "Bud" Langley
Information received today, January 14th, 2007 from Billy Evatt, "Bud" Langley
passed away some five (5) years ago. Bud was a Pilot with the 361st Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Nha Trang in 1967. Billy said he also flew with Bud at Warner Robins.
"Bud" is now among Ours Gone, May He Rest in Peace.
Lt. Col. Michael C. Flemming
Received Jan. 30, 2007 from Richard J. Guertin, Colonel USAF, Retired.
I got word today that my old EC-47 Ferry Pilot, Instructor Pilot and friend died and thought it would be appropriate to high light him in the EC history. At Nha Trang in 1967 - 1968 he was a Captain and his full name was Michael C. Fleming. He could make any goon talk but #882 was his bird. After SEA we lost track of one an other but I've heard that Mike continued to fly in the far East until recently. I don't know the mission or circumstance of his flying but ,and this is only a guess. It may have been associated with the "Christians in Action" organization. He died December 1, 2006, in Chiang Mai Ram Hospital, Chiang Mai Thailand.
He now fly's with the angels and has God as his Co-pilot.
Rest in Peace good friend.
Robert Pelner
Received February 12, 2007 from Rodger Curnow.
To the "Ours Gone" may be added Robert Pelner, who was a navigator with the 362nd TEWS between 1969-70. I just very recently learned of his passing in December of 2005. He appears in the 362nd yearbook on the website at pages 37 and 38. Below I'm pasting a copy of the obit as it appeared in the Sheboygan, Wisconsin newspaper. (I think they got it reversed as to the number of Air Medals and DFCs he had.) Rob's brother told me that he had lung cancer. He was a friend. We served together between 1971 and 1974 at Mather AFB, and later he helped me get into law school and his C-5 reserve squadron at Travis. He was an irrepresible spirit!
Information taken from the Sheboygan Press,(WI)
December 14, 2005
Robert E. Pelner, 60, 902 Logan Ave., died Saturday afternoon, Dec. 10, 2005 at St. Nicholas Hospital.
Robert was born March 4, 1945 in Sheboygan to Ernest G. and Elizabeth (Lowe) Pelner. He was a graduate of Sheboygan North High School, Class of 1964 and he received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin--Madison, Class of 1968 where he was a member of the Air Force ROTC. He served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Vietnam where he was awarded 3 Distinguished Flying Crosses and the U.S. Air Force Medal. He achieved the rank of Major.
Robert received his Master's Degree and Doctorate of Juris Prudence from the University of the Pacific. He practiced law in a partnership in California for a number of years before returning to Sheboygan.
Robert is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Pelner of Sheboygan his brother, James W. (Rene) Pelner of Placitas, New Mexico his nephew James A. (Jenny) Pelner and his niece Michelle L. Pelner all of Phoenix, AZ.
A Requiem Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 16, at Grace Episcopal Church. The Rev. Rex Perry will officiate. Friends may gather at 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Wildwood Cemetery.
Robert has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Carl Lemon
February 16th, 2007
Hello Folks
I have recieved an e-mail from the son of Carl Lemon via Danny Russell that Captain Carl Lemon passed away in 1994.
Carl was the navigator on CAP53 shot down on April 22nd, 1970. Document and Photos
Carl has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Myron 'Mike' Cribbet
March 21st, 2007
Hello Folks
I have recieved an e-mail from Rick Yeh relayed from Don Wallace, the stepson of Myron 'Mike' Cribbet on the passing of Myron 'Mike' Cribbet at his home in Garland, Texas after a short battle with cancer. Mike was a Bravo Maintenance technician in Pleiku/Danang in 70/71.
Mike has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Carl Engel
Received November 21st, 2007 from Rodger Curnow.
To the "Ours Gone" may be added Carl Engel.
I Was informed recently by Chuck Greenley (former squadron navigator of the 362nd TEWS 1970-71 at Danang) of the passing of Carl Engel last May in Depoe Bay, Oregon. Carl was the squadron administrative officer of the 362nd when I PCS'd there in 1970.
The obituary which appeared in the Newport News (Central Oregon) newspaper is shown here:
Carl R. Engel, 72, of Depoe Bay died May 6, 2007. He was born May 25, 1934 and grew up in Portland. He graduated from the University of Portland in 1957. That same year he married Mary Ann Huetten, also of Portland, and entered the U.S. Air Force. He served 22 years, retiring in 1979 in the grade of Lt. Colonel. Among military assignments were three years service in France with NATO, a one-year combat tour in Vietnam, including 106 combat missions, and two years with the U.S. Military Advisory Assistance Group - Iran, as a personnel management advisor to the Imperial General Staff in Tehran. Stateside duty assignments included flight operations in Utah and on Cape Cod, and three years as chief of personnel plans at the Aerospace Defense Command Headquarters in Colorado Springs. His first assignment was as director of operations and plans at the Regional North American Air Division Headquarters in Minnesota.
Upon a retirement from active duty he and Mary Ann returned to Portland and Carl worked as a stockbroker at Merrill Lynch for several years. Prior to final retirement he managed the Oregon Literacy Bookstore, an affiliate of Oregon Literacy, Inc. In 2000 he and Mary Ann moved to the Oregon coast seeking the tranquility of seaside living. He enjoyed tennis and was a stock market enthusiast all his adult life.
Carl is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary Ann; daughter Nancy; and sister Elaine Buxman.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 14 at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home in Portland. A graveside ceremony with full military honors at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland. Remembrances of choice are encouraged.
Carl has now joined the growing ranks of "Ours Gone".
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Clarence T. "Tom" Smith
February 21st, 2008
I have received word on the passing of another of ours.
Lt. Col. Clarence T. "Tom" Smith joined "Ours Gone" on March 31st, 2007. Col. Smith then a Major served with the 361st Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Phu Cat AB, Vietnam as a Navigator and Scheduler in 1969/70.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Howe L. "Lee" Vandegriff
February 25th, 2008
I have received a letter this morning from Thomas E. Way, on the passing of another of ours.
Information from Thomas, that Lee passed away in Santa Fe, New Mexico on Novenber 22, 2006, 34 years and one day after surviving the crash of Baron-56. Lee was a Lt. Col. and a Navigator with the 361st Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at NKP. He wrote a first hand account of this crash and it is posted on the site, the crash of Baron-56, EC-47 43-49771 on which he was the Navigator. Lee had also served with the 360th Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Tan Son Nhut in the same year.
To read Lee's account of the crash Click Here
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Roger Dumas
March 31st, 2008
I have received a note this morning from Charlie Millsap, on the passing of another of ours.
Roger Dumas (TSN 70-71 era) passed away Friday March 28th in Hondo TX.
Charlie adds; I had the pleasure of working with him at TSN and making a few visits to Athens when he flew with the 6916th Security Squadron in the C-130 program. He was a real class act.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Don Boston
April 12th, 2008
I have received a note today from Gardner Gore with word from Carol Boston, on the passing of another of ours.
Don Boston passed away on September 26, 2007 after a long battle with lung cancer.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
Fred C. Seamans
April 19th, 2008
I have received a note Ed Diehl, on the passing of another of ours.
Fred C.Seamans aged 62 of Carlsbad, NM passed away at his home on Sunday March 23, 2008. Interment was at Carlsbad Cemetery with Carlsbad Veterans Honor Guard providing Military Honors.
Fred was an Aircraft Mechanic with the 362nd Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron at Pleiku, 1966-1969.
Gone but not forgotten. May he forever rest in peace.
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