Today is May 12th, the day before we leave. I hope this blog thing works..new to me anyway,, here goes!
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Looks like it works great!!!! I am riding the 1st 3 days to Angel fire then have to go back to working both jobs. The B model looked impressive over the Cemetary this morning. It was even clean on the bottom….Nice turn out at French Valley ( I liked the hot dogs as well) and I appreciate the nice welcome, hugs, kisses and handshakes from Scott, Carole, Shayne, Rox (and almost a hubbie), Steve, FRANK, rick, Van, Judy, RAY and Geoff.
I’ll let you know how you looked from the riders point of view. Please don’t take any unnecessary risks!!!!!!! Come back safe.
here we are 2 hrs from liftoff-not much sleep last night,,excited,,nervous,,we have waitied over a year for this..we will see how it goes..
thanks to everyone who has supported us and helped us on this journey,,and special thanks to John at Overseas Aircraft-his heart is as big as the moon. If not for him we would be flying Cessna’s to the wall…
ok gotta get ready to go-will chat more later,,
bye ya’ll
Yesterday at the Seawolf Gunship Dedication and start of the Flight to the wall was Fantastic, thanks to all that attended and Bravo Zulu to the Wings/Rotor staff, maintainers and Support personnell ., hope our Seawolf Gunship Gets the OK and Flys with you. KEEP YOUR TURNS UP , KEEP SAFE and let the EAGLES FLY. Great seeing Pat, Shanyne and Nat Ward again. See you Soon SR Chief B.Rutledge
I got all the poster you sent me posted at many VFW and American legion I made sure the had a lot of Vietnam veteran. See you in El Paso . Call me before you lift off at your last stop before El Paso . 915 491 9105.
here we are in bullhead. great weather through the mountains to barstow. left barstow and it was pretty windy through the desert to bullhead. every time we saw motorcycles we flew circles around them. our pilots were randy zahn and carl allen awesome pilots! atayed at the Avi hotel. lots of people came to see us. now were are off to flagstaff.. see yall later shayne
Glad to hear that your first leg went well. It’s a wonderful thing that you are doing and I just want to say ” Never Forget a Vet”. Have a safe and memorable journey. Looking forward to your updates. Randy, be safe.
God Bless America
Great to hear everything is going well. We think what you’re all doing is fantastic. As fellow Rotorheads and Veteran advocates, Donna and I have a great understanding of what you’ve all put into this effort and greatly appreciate what your doing and especially who you’re doing it for. Folks here in Knoxville, TN, are really excited about you all coming through and have really stepped up to the plate to make your stop here a memorable and easy one. Everythings ready to go!
Clell Jenkins
“President”
Rolling Thunder TN3
Knoxville, Tennessee
Hullo y’all! I’ve been watching all the “Rolling Thunder” motorcycles headed east on I-40 passing through Kingman ARIZONA the past couple of days, and now the pleasure of seeing this “Flying Thunder” helicopter unit at our airport here this morning Thursday, 5/15/08…. it was a great experience, and am really thankful to have had this opportunity, and be just a little part of this super-event! Best of luck to all, have a great journey, and ENJOY yourselves when you reach your destination! Enjoy this time you get to spend together! Give a wave when you fly back over us on your way home from the WALL…… BE SAFE!
It’s great to see that the trip has started!! We wish you all the best of luck from Upstate South Carolina!! I’ll be waiting at Gastonia with Michele and I have no idea who else for the flight to Gaffney. You can’t imagine how much we are looking forward to this!! It’s been so long since I’ve been inside a flying Huey that I barely remember what it feels like, I’m sure that it’ll come back to me real fast or Pat will smash me in the back of the helmet with a steel notebook!! It’s wonderful news that you’ll have all of the birds in the air including the “H” model. You guys are all the best!! We can’t wait to meet the rest of you and show you our work in progress, (without you guys & Gals it would NEVER have happened), all we can say is thank you from the bottom of our hearts and remember, you are flying at least one 1st of the 9th bird. I know that it’s restored to another “B” model but it started as a 1st of the 9th bird so it will always be one to me……………..Thanks again, Ed
Looking forward to seeing you in Gaffney, SC on the 27th. I am very excited about the possibility being around the huey one more time. It has been a long time since my crew-chief days with the 9th Aviation Battalion in Vietnam. There is nothing and never will be anthing to compare with the thtill of flying the huey, the sounds and smells. Thanks guys for what you are doing. Have a safe trip. Wayne
You are all doing something Great! The flight you are taking is more than just a flight. It is a message that America cares about its Veterans. We need to know this for many have made sacrafices for the freedoms we all enjoy. God speed our message across this great land of ours. My prayers and thoughts will be with you all. Say ‘Hi’ to my buds for me; Carl, John, and Larry. God Speed!!
First I’d like to thank seawolf gunner Senior Chief Bill Rutledge for all the information posted on this seawolf gunship. He updates our forum daily. I live in North Carolina and am looking forward to being at Raleigh Durham Airport to visit this aircraft. I am a Seawolf Det-9 gunner and I am sure I flew some of my combat missions in this same aircraft.
If there is anybody else out there that’s planing to be at RDU for this historic event, contact me and we’ll get together.
A special thanks to the crew of Wings and Rotors for all the time spent and hard work to make this historic event happen .
Thanks Again
Joe Versace
HA(L)3 Det-9/69-70
919-772-0807
BROTHERS FOREVER
Got to run with the bikers on I15 on my way to meet Mike a Daggett. Didn’t expect that, also, didn’t know I could drive 30-35 miles alongside them with a thumbs-up. It’s already worth all. Take care and be safe and fun!
The sound of the rotors
By JOHN HUNNEMAN - Staff Writer | Tuesday, May 13, 2008 8:06 PM PDT ∞
Post your Comments Increase Font Decrease Font email this story print this story From out of the northwest sky, growing larger and noisier as it approached French Valley Airport on Tuesday, came a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter.
A hush bordering on reverence fell over a group of veterans gathered on the runway as the chopper flew past the airport, circled back from the south and landed nearby.
Some in the crowd applauded when the skids touched the runway. But most of the veterans stood still and silent except for an occasional, “This still gives me the shivers.”
Many knew all too well the distinctive sound of the Huey’s rotors, a noise that took them back to the jungles of their youth, now nearly 40 years to the rear.
This helicopter was one of four belonging to Wings and Rotors Air Museum at French Valley that are scheduled to depart this week for Washington, D.C., in an operation dubbed Flying Thunder to the Wall.
The choppers will fly in coordination with Rolling Thunder, the annual trek of thousands of motorcycle riders from across the country that begins Wednesday and is timed to arrive at the Vietnam War Memorial —- The Wall —- in time for Memorial Day.
This year marks the first time the bikers will have air support.
“This is a great idea,” said Joy “ChapJoy” Jeanette, president of the California Chapter of Rolling Thunder. “I think you’ll see more of this in years to come.”
On board the Huey that landed Tuesday were two Congressional Medal of Honor recipients the chopper had picked up near Riverside and flown to French Valley to mark the occasion.
Vietnam veteran John Baca was a 21-year-old Army specialist on Feb. 10, 1970, when a grenade was thrown into the middle of his patrol. Baca covered the grenade with his steel helmet and then fell on top of that helmet to shield his men. His action is credited with saving eight lives.
The other hero, now 86, was retired U.S. Army Col. Lewis Millett, a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. On Feb. 7, 1951, Millett led his platoon on the largest bayonet charge since the Civil War up a hill against a North Korean stronghold.
Near the chopper, Millett and Baca shook hands with other veterans and posed for photos.
Temecula resident Roy Gleason was among those on the ground waiting for the Huey to arrive. An army sergeant wounded in action in 1968 in Vietnam, Gleason knew the sound of the Huey’s rotors all too well.
Almost every day while he was in-country, a chopper would pick up his platoon and take them into harm’s way.
“Riding in the chopper was my favorite part of being in Vietnam,” Gleason said. “Going out you were a little reluctant. You prayed all the way. But coming back you were happy. You knew you had made it one more day.”
It’s a safe bet many veterans gathered around the chopper at French Valley Airport felt the same way.
Must be an awesome sight from the air to see all the ridres and just as awesome to look up and have helicopter cover–HOOYAH!!. The fruits of all your labor have come alive and you all did a great job to make May 13 the great day it was. This was the first time the Ortiz Family-family of SEAWOLF Pilot Tony Ortiz KIA- had been to a function of this caliber. Meeting new and old friends and sharing this experience just makes you stand tall and feel the goose bumps of the occasion. Have a great flight as you have our fallen SISTERS & BROTHERS as your guiding ANGELS
I see the note about posting articles. I would love to have you send me links to any coverage. We’ll pick the best and definitely add them to the website’s Press Area.
Greetings from Double Eagle Airport just outside of Albuquerque. Here we are on day three with one more leg to go to our RON site of Angel Fire, NM.
Yesterday we got hammered by the winds across Arizona. Running quarter hour fuel checks were the flavor of the day but we managed to sqweak out each leg. We did find that the fuel low light illuminates early though!
The B model is running well and testing Carl and my skills! Been a long time since flying cross country (literally) with not much more than a mag compass to navigate! The welcomes have been awesome at the airports we stop at and the Veteran’s we have met even more so. These birds bring back lots of memories for lots of people, whether they be from getting a lift into battle, out of battle, being on a medivac or having one of the gunships providing close air support.
We have a great crew and team supporting us. Pat gives us moral support as he completes the H model, Shayne….were you a tech sergeant or a drill sergeant?? She keeps us in line!!!
Well, gotta get those blades turning for the flight to Angel Fire. This will be a test for the rugged old war horse and us!! Angel Fire is at an elevation of 8,382′, where B models weren’t born to go!!
Here is a little update for all of you following the flight to the wall. Here is a link that was put in the Arizona Daily Sun (Flagstaff) when Bandit 2 Landed on Thursday. You guys are doing a GREAT JOB!
Seawolves , Our Gunship will not be making the flight to the wall, FAA shot it down today, parts of it will be used to fix an ARmy B Model to fly in its stead. but if possible John the CEO and owner from OVERSEAS AIRCRAFT SUPPLY,will if possible truck the Seawolf Gunship to DC . message from OAS Pilot Larry Clark below.
Bill, be sure to tell all the Seawolves that we sent the paperwork to
the FAA in April. They asked for more documents, which we provided in
late April. They issued us a temporary N number, and it is in the FAA
data base. Yesterday, they said everything was good, the registration
card was being scanned, so they could fax us an approval to fly with,
until the card got here on Monday. This morning, we had the door
slammed shut by the legal guys at FAA. We plan to appeal higher up
and make Seawolf 324 fly again.
Well, I sure wish I along for the ride or flight. It was a part of my ‘late in life’ dreams. But it seems that destiny had other plans for me. and it didn’t include riding a “VA wheelchair to The Wall.
You know, of course, that I’m there in spirit… whether in a van o stomping in the red clay with the Navajo, th First People. Or once again visiting a special name for me and my brother Vince on the Wall!
May the Gods of Winged Victory see you safely and triumphantly and always courageously to The Wall and The Wall and The Wall.
To all the people involved in the Run for the Wall; God bless you and keep you safe. My good friend CW5 John Harris is one of the pilots flying ” cover” for the riders. Couldn’t have picked a better pilot or man for the job. To all the aircrews- Keep them turning and burning and have a safe, enjoyable flight.
My class at Liberty High School in Brentwood, Northern California is tracking your progress! We are all praying for you! My dad, Ray Reinders is on the flight. We are looking for photos or video to see your progress.
Hi all of you brave and courageous soldiers in the air….I miss you Shayne and I hope you all are having a great time….where are you now on 18 May 08? I sure wish I was with you all……God bless you and fly safe. I know you are doing a lot of good for so many of our Veterans….this is a wonderful mission…..I hope the weather holds out for you all of the way……
Take care….Hi Scott…
By the way how is Carole holding up? Hi Carole……
Love from,
Marilyn
Hi guys have ag good flight I look foreward to seeing you all in Washington d.c. I spent a lot of time in Vietnam on Bandit 2 I have a lot of photos to show you.
hi everyone been soooooo busy. many nights going to bed at 130 am and getting up at 5 am. we are now in Clinton OK,,,sadly down for maintenance. but, the OH-58 is up and flying-after its amazing appearance in Angle Fire NM-just in time to join the huey and do a beautiful flyover of the memorial. there were 100’s of bikes and vets. the Oh-58 was in Ft Smith all weekend and tomorrow will carry the flame to memphis TN.
Angel Fire has been the most special day for us. It was a chilly day, some snow on the mountain tops. The Huey flew up with up with only the pilot and copilot because of altitude/power. It was beautiful seeing it fly over that mountain and hearing its magnificent sound fill the air. Everyone at the memorial cheered and they landed right near it. Veterans gathered as if at a huge reunion gathered, familiy members, kids of all ages climbed in the old warrior like seeing a new friend. As i said before the Kiowa flew in just in time for the 2 ship to fly their tribut to the memorial and all it stands for.
Our chief mechnic is in bound from CA first thing in the morning (monday) and will start fixing the Bandit. We hope to have her back in the air by Tuesday. Pat and crew are feverishly working as I write this to finish the medi-vac Huey in AZ. We hope they will be up tomorrow.
For now the OH-58 with pilots john Harris and Tom Woehl, with support crews Carole, Dane, Van and Ruth will continue on with our flight schedule until we can catch up.
We hope you all understand the amount of work, sacrifice and sometimes pretty stressful times we are going through (like no rooms at the Inn, sorry we messed up your reservation) to complete our mission. But also we thank the cities and the supporters who made our trip so special!
Each day is a new day and tomorrow we will wake with the the hope and confidence to continue the mission.Our thoughts are with all our friends and family as we sit here tonight in the Clinton Ramada Inn planning the next day.Thanks for all your great comments, we love you all!!!!
Shayne
Shayne,
I want to thank you and all of the Flying Thunder staff for making a stop at the Memorial in Angel Fire. As the surviving founder of that Memorial, I appreciate the tribute you have paid to it by your visit and your kind words. I hope that it was a powerful and inspiraional visit for everyone.
Bless you for all of the good that work that you are doing. Have a safe journey to D. C. and back to Murrieta.
Walter Westphall
Sorry to hear of the Bandit’s problems - but word is definitely out about Flying Thunder. A good friend and member of Rolling Thunder MS-1 making the cross-country run called yesterday morning to report he heard about the Bandit being down while at a truck stop in OK. Even the truckers are making CB progress reports!
Talk about great attitudes! When I spoke with Carole right after the road report, she was all positive. “This will be what it is - we’re building on next year”. How good is that?
We look forward to welcoming the Kiowa to Memphis later today and wish everyone safe flights in the continuing saga of Flight to the Wall 2008. This will be a journal worth reading someday.
Joe Kilpatrick
president
Rolling Thunder Tennessee V
We are looking forward to your arrival in Lebanon, TN tomorrow. There will be much celebration.
Just to be able hear the sounds of a UH-1 will be a step back into the times of a bygone era in which we all hold memories good and bad. But it also includes a unspoken comradship that is only shared by those that participated.
Am waiting with great anticipation.
I’ll be at Leesburg on Saturday but just in case, can you post here exactly when the flight will fly over the Wall in DC? Date–time–and maybe even route of flight.
I plan on being at the Wall for that and want to tell my friends the times, etc.
Bummer about the Seawolf Gunship but Flying Thunder will still be spectacular even without it.
I just wanted to thank all of you and the crew for stopping in Dalhart, Texas. It was a real privilege to have you here! Good luck on the rest of your trip and God Bless you all!
REAL CAV Vietnam Veterans (and all military vets) - Wings and Rotors Museum has made my past year due to my involvement in obtaining support for their Flying Thunder mission to The Wall. I was blown away when I was invited to fly on the mission. The invite was a “no brainer” as I jumped on a flight to California 7 days ago. I will be flying/riding/working and whatever else is needed for the entire flight to and back from The Wall.
I feel very honored as a Retired Army Chief Warrant Officer Cobra, Scout and Huey pilot with an AMOC graduate Maintenance, it is my hope that I can contribute something to Wings and Rotors, Flying Thunder and The Wall flight.
Last Tuesday I was blown away to fly left seat on the Bandit Huey for a fly-by before we left California over a National Cemetary. After the cemetary fly-by I was confused when we landed nearby where a police cruiser with his overhead lights flashing acted as a Maltese Cross to pick-up 4 pasengers for a flight back to the French Valley Airport.
NO PROBLEM, EH! Well, two of the passengers were none other than Medal of Honor recipients Col Lewis Millet and SP4 John Baca. Suddenly I was put in a position of “Get To It or run for the treeline”. I elected to glue my behind to seat and go for it. It had been 39 years since I flew a UH1B gunship in flight school prior to a Cobra transition.
The Aircraft Commander said “You have the aircraft” after we took off. All I could think about were Caution Panel lights, all of the flight and drive train instruments, etc. I could just see me involved in a forced landing with the both of MOH recipients on-board. The flight went without a hitch but I had sweated off several pounds of weight during the short flight.
Upon shutdown, SP4 Baca handed myself and the A/C his personal Medal of Honor COIN. I did not know what to say but we hugged and called each other brother. I will cherish that flight, those moments and the MOH COIN forever.
We are down for a faulty Fuel Control right now but a replacement is on the way so we can continue our flight. I will be writing articles for the 9th Cav column in the 1st Cav Div Assoc newletters, the VHPA news letter and the 9th Cav Bullwhip Squadron newsletter after this 23 day odessy.
Will keep everyone posted as we go along this fantastic trip. Take care and keep in mind that the Wings and Rotors Museum is a Flying Museum. Donations to their efforts are always welcome.
HEADHUNTER 16, Red X-Ray and Blue X-Ray. REAL CAV!
Shayne and Crew - I’m so sorry to have missed your take off from French Valley - Dad wasn’t feeling too well. But I was and still am with you in spirit! Let me know if there’s anything I can do from home - you have the number.
Big hugs to you all and a sock in the arm to Steve Roberts!
I must thank the crew for what you accomplished in Memphis today. Thank you Tom for providing a final trip for my Dad’s patches. I enjoyed talking with each of the crew and with those of Rolling Thunder. My heart goes out to each of you and for the healing you provide.
Fly High, Fly Free, Fly Proud,
Robert Meister
Son of CW2 Bernard E. Meister 334th AHC, 1969-70, 189th AHC 1967-68
On behalf of all the aviators and crew menbers from the 1st Cav, a heart felt thanks for all your hard work from all of us who lifted off after a clear left….clear right. Especially for the aviators and crew members who didn’t make it. Gary Owen
Greetings from a wife helping out with the ground crew in a “chase car.”
Van was a crew chief and gunner on a Huey out of Soc Trang in Feb. ‘69-’70. This trip brings our Vietnam experience full circle. Fourty years ago he left just after our wedding, and now we get to spend these next few weeks together — grateful for the healing found in meeting each of you and hearing your stories.
After six days on the road, I’m finally able to connect to the internet and check in with everyone. Every day has been very long. I’m writing this in the middle of the night, while our clothes finish up in the hotel guest laundry facility.
The overall impression is that veterans, especially those of the Vietnam era, receive validation and healing from hearing the “whop whop” of the blades and then being able to stand next to a the OH58 or the Huey. We are always amazed at the number of people who are waiting when we arrive!
Thanks to you who worked hard to get the word out for each location. The tough weather and mechanical issues made us late for a couple of the events, and we hated to disappoint the people who waited so long.
Just a few snapshots from the last six days:
Bullhead City - our first chance to talk with vets; Gene is still keeping in touch; got to see neices and nephew…and they were thrilled to be in the paper (overnight here)
Kingman - great turn out; thanks to the mayor and others for your support; winds take extra fuel, and make everything harder. (fuel)
Flagstaff - extra fuel stops made the chopper late, but people waited and cheered when it flew in. The chopper couldn’t lift off in the altitude with a full tank of fuel, so had to drop off three at Grand Canyon/Valle airport — drove back from Flagstaff to pick them up. (fuel)
Angel Fire - made me cry with grief and pride to experience the vets’ reactions to the two helicopters’ fly-by; wonderful celebration; the Westphals gave us all a place to find peace. (overnight)
Beautiful trip out of the mountains; saw elk, deer, antelope, andincredible vistas
Dalhart TX - Wow! Great turn-out. Shirley Newman…you are fantastic! Thanks for your coverage that brought out the community, and especially vets. Christine Olsen, we appreciated the food and goodies. (fuel)
Tough weather (winds) and extra fuel stops made us late for Amarillo, but still had the opportunity to meet precious people…and had a great BBQ! Thank you for your patience and gracious hospitality! (fuel)
Clinton OK — very touched by veterans from the nearby hospital; especially moved by a purple heart Marine, whose wife cried as he wept when he came near the Huey…one of those who had not yet talked about his war. Huey did not take off from here…mechanical problems. Broke the ground crew into two groups: Steve & Lyndy, Shane & Scott, and documentary photographer, Bill, stayed with Louis, Carl, and Randy supporting the Huey; Carol, Dane, Van & me, with documentary crew, Tanner, went on to support John and Tom with the OH58. (0vernight, plus repairs)
Fort Smith AR - great air show, but only had the OH58; good to be next to the Army recruiter “tent”; never get over the helicopters’ power for Vietnam Vets, and their deep appreciation when they realize we did all this work and came all this way to honor them. Great hosptiality from Sam and Jan Phillips. (overnight)
Little Rock - great response, lots of people, with press and city officials…and the people we come for — the Veterans and their families. (fuel)
Memphis — Over 250 greeted the OH58 as it landed in a city park at nearby Bartlett. Color guards and motorcycles added honor to the event. Rolling Thunder are guarding the bird overnight. A couple hundred more people came throughout the afternoon and into the evening. Heard treasured stories from veterans. One little boy, probably about 9, came with a nickle and a penny and told me, “This is all I have, but I wanted to give something. My Grandpa got hurt in Vietnam.” I assured him his contribution was very important, and would make his Grandpa very proud.
Hope to be on-line more often, and will not write a book next time. Keep praying that the helicopters will all fly over the wall. Thanks for your interest and support.
I served as a Gunner and Crew Chief with the 121st AHC from Feb 69 to Feb 70 onboth Slicks and Gunships.
As Ruth has so well summarized our storythus far, i wanted to letyou all know that, that in spite of all the work it took to get here, this journey to the wall in these old “birds” is something I will never forget. In Memphis yesterday to young men I talked to, revealed they lost there Dad when one was two years old and the other was seven. We shed a few tears and huged and we talked a lot about what it was like for there Dad’s being a pilot in Vietnam trying to fill in some of the “blanks” in there past. i will never forget these two Young men and the healing of all our past hurts as we fly east to D.C.
Pray for all the crews and support teams, as it is a complex, difficult and dangerous operation. This journey is so valuble to so many people.
Pat, Shayne and crew. We are all watching and proud of what you have done for the spirits of all the great men and women in uniform from the past and no doubt those in the future.
To Randy Zahn.
Are you still grounded or have they fixed the problem? I hope that all of you are back in the air. So far all the info above is about you being down, but nothing is being said about how the repairs are coming along. I’m sure that there are a lot of people concerned besides myself. Give us a word!
I have been reading all these comments being added to this blog and some of these stories have brought tears to my eyes. Randy, I’m very proud of you for being part of this historic event. Let’s get that Huey back in the air and get it to the Wall. Have a safe journey.
Any new developments regarding Seawolf 324? I am the nephew of LTjg Tony Ortiz and am trying to keep my mother up on the latest happenings regarding the Seawolf Huey. What are the possibilities of making stops on the return leg of the trip. The folks in Douglas, Arizona were really looking forward to seeing the “Bird” either make a pass or landing in memory of the fallen son/hero.
Hello from Lynchburg Virginia. We are looking forward to your arrival on the 21st at the Lynchburg Regional Airport and getting to meet all you brave men and women that have committed to this monumental trip cross country. Our son, Chris Sugden has been your contact here with Rolling Thunder Chapter 4 Lynchburg. He has done an amazing job of organizing your arrival.
God bless you all with safety on the rest of the flight and we look forward you your arrival.
Gail Sugden
Lynchburg, Virginia
Great time in Memphis!
I wanted to thank everyone for such a wonderful time yesterday!
I had an amazing time talking to everyone and listening to the stories that were shared.
When first approaching the site where the helicopter landed, I felt such excitement. Since I was young, I have been in awe of military vehicles…and to see, stand beside and sit in such an amazing and historical vehicle was so special to me. The only thing better would have been to go up in that bird - and if this event happens next year I will definately have my “ticket to ride”!!! Everyone from the Flying Thunder flight crew, the support team and Rolling Thunder were so sweet. Each of us with Soldiers’ Angels had an incredible time with all of you! You made each of us think about service and patriotism. While having such excitment and awe at the landing site, I felt sadness as I drove home. I thought about sitting in that helicopter and what that vehicle must have meant to so many soldiers. I cried for the men and women who had experienced loss - for those who didn’t get to come home - and for those who came home and still live with the memories. I cried for all the soldiers who made it home, but have never been told thank you and how much they were and are appreciated. When I got home, I called my Dad who served in the Korean War as a Navy signalman - I told him that I loved him and thanked him for his strength, courage and service. I called my uncle who flew a helicopter similar to the one I sat in last night. He was shot down 3 times in Vietnam and was a POW. I didn’t talk to him directly as he suffers every day from PTSD and I was unsure how he would recieve this type of call - but told my aunt that I wanted her to somehow let him know how much I appreciated his service and what a hero he is to me. I think your trip across our great country is making people think. It is bringing both the old and young together for healing within our nation.
I have told everyone I met today about meeting all of you - how you touched the lives of others and at the same time allowed others to touch your lives. I commend you for your dedication in making this historical flight …. and for making a difference in the lives of generations past and current.
Please let the Soldiers’ Angels Memphis VA Team know if we can ever be of assistance to any of you.
Thank you for the stories, information, tshirts, poster (signed by the best flight crew ever!) and most of all the memory.
Y’all are an amazing group.
Be safe on your continued flight.
Shannon Starks
Co-Leader
Soldiers’ Angels Memphis VA Team
120 Legacy Barn Dr #102, Collierville TN 38017
901-481-3087
To Carole, Ruth, the flight crew that made it to N. Little Rock AR airport yesterday, and all those involved with this mission. Our sincere thanks and appreciation for all the hard work and dedication involved with this mission.
You are making a difference for many to help let many know they will “Never Be Forgotten Again” and enjoyed speaking with many yesterday. Our prayers and thoughts with you for a safe trip from here on to the Wall.
Carole will send pics to you as we get them together.
God Bless you all and anything we can help with, please let us know.
Angel HUGS from AR
Linda Spurlin-Dominik
National President/CEO - Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet
Convoy honoring veterans along the way to Vietnam Memorial
By Shirley Downing (Contact)
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Rob Meister was 7 when his dad’s Army helicopter was shot out of a Vietnam sky.
On Monday Meister, now 45, handed two patches from his late father’s uniform to the pilot of a Vietnam-era helicopter minutes after the chopper landed in Bartlett. Meister asked the pilot to carry the badges with him to Washington. ‘”I just wanted his patches to go off on another flight,” Meister said as his voice shook, his grandson, Kris Meister, 3, at his side.
Meister and about 150 other Mid-Southerners gathered in Bartlett’s Freeman Park Monday to see a Vietnam-era helicopter land for an overnight visit. The helicopter is part of the “Flight to the Wall” convoy
traveling from California to Washington for a May 25 ceremony at the Vietnam War Memorial.
Many of the visitors wore police or military uniforms, or were members of veterans’ groups, along with their families. Rolling Thunder motorcycle riders, who are veterans, wore jeans, black T-shirts and black leather vests with military insignias to show their patriotism. Members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America were in wheelchairs.
The veterans saluted as the camouflage-colored OH58 Kiowa set down on the park grounds, its spinning blades sending particles of grass and clouds of dust flying across the park.
“I think it’s awesome,” Vietnam Army veteran Bob Harris, 61, of Memphis said of the event. Others agreed. “It’s about time Vietnam vets got a break,” said Bob Colalasure, 58, who served in the Navy in Vietnam.
“I think it’s the greatest thing to travel like this to the Wall,” said Sonny Taylor, 64, a Navy veteran.
One helicopter arrived shortly after 2:30 p.m. instead of two helicopters, as had been planned. Four refurbished helicopters owned by Wings & Rotors Air Museum in Murrieta, Calif., were scheduled to make the cross-country trip from California, but one did not gain clearance, and two ran into mechanical trouble, said pilot Tom Woehl of San Diego.
A separate convoy of Flying Thunder members on motorcycles and other vehicles are driving to Washington to participate in the ceremony.
About 30 local Rolling Thunder members at the park arrived on Harleys and Yamahas with flags tied to the handlebars. They were mostly men with gray or thinning hair and builds slightly heavier than they were in their youth. Some said they weren’t able to go on to Washington but would be there in thought.
Vietnam Army veteran Joe W. Lee, 67, yelled “Here it comes,” as he hopped off the back of a pickup and walked swiftly to the edge of the park, clapping his hands, and then raising his right arm in a salute as the helicopter landed.
As for Meister, he said he’d been planning the day for months, and was glad to be able to see his father’s badges again take flight.
“It is my personal tribute,” he said.
Dad,
I’m really proud of you! Your adrenaline must be fierce right now. Be safe and have a wonderful time. We have all of you in our prayers!
Love you, Michelle
“You’re out of your Freakin’ mind!” (or something similar) would have been my probable response had I been told decades ago I would be putting a bedroll on the ground next to the skid of an OH-58 to spend the night as part of a volunteer security detail in Memphis, TN - and be thrilled about it!
But then, I could never imagine I’d be sharing that night with my 21 year-old son and some of the best friends I’ll ever know. I doubt any of us got more than a few minute cat naps during the night, but not a one felt the tired bones and stiff joints as we watched the Kiowa lift off on her continuing journey to The Wall Tuesday morning. Waiting together and sharing more stories while waiting to see the the Slick arrive at Noon was icing on the cake. Last night’s sleep back at home was the best I’ve had since I can remember.
To everyone at Wings and Rotors - thanks for a memory I’ll cherish forever.
Joe, Rolling Thunder Tennessee V
Today is May 21st….I turn 60 years old. Just a yesterday 41years ago I arrived in Vietnam. I was 18 years old. A month after my 19th birthday I was flying combat missions as a crew-chief on a UH-1C Huey Gunship. You could say my youth was stolen, but not the memories of the great soliders that I served with and the fondness that I have for the helicopter. My helicopter took care of my crew and myself, and I took care of it. Seems as if I can still hear the whine of the engine and transmission, the vibrations, sounds of the blades beating the air, smells of jet fuel, gun powder and the contnious radio chatter.
I can’t wait to be in Gaffney South Carolina with my grandson when you arrive on 27 May.
Thankyou so much for what you are doing to honor our Veterans.
We will Never Forget
Wayne W. Thompson
Company B 9th Avn Bn
9th Infantry Division
Vietnam 1967-1968
How you holding up? I’m sure you are having the time of your life. Just had to add my two cents to reiterate the sentiments I shared with you before you started the flight…
I knew that you folks at “Wings and Rotors” were doing something special restoring the Vietnam era aircraft and volunteering thousands of hours of your personal time to the cause. However, “Flying Thunder” adds an entirely different dimension and level of selflessness to your organization. I applaud your efforts and know that the whole experience will be a rewarding and unique experience for the whole crew as well as the ‘Nam Vets across the country that will likely benefit from your project.
Good luck, have a great time and a safe return flight…
Respectfully,
Dan Rios
91st Evacuation Hospital
Tuy Hoa, Vienam
SEP 67- SEP 68
Shayne,
Thankyou to you and the crew of “The Bandit” for coming to the Clinton, Ok airport on Saturday May 17. It was an overwhelming experience to be there and watch the Huey coming in on final approach and then touchdown. It was truly an honor to meet all of you and to spend some time visiting with the crew. I was able to meet both, the dustoff and the gunship, “The Bandit” when they flew into the Weatherford, Ok (my hometown) airport to refuel after leaving the Clinton,Ok airport.
Thankyou to you and all of the crews for what you are doing. If you all come this way again I’d like to ask that you will consider coming to Weatherford, Ok as a designated stop. I hope you enjoy the magazines.
The fuel control arrived yesterday morning and by 14:00 it was flying. They are playing cath up-made it to Ft Smith AR last night will haul ass today. We hope the make it here to Virginia tonight or tomorrow morning.
Myself, Scott and Linde left Clinton the 20th in the vans, sadly (at the time) leaving Carl, Randy, Rick-mechanic extradinaire, and Frank, and Steve to work on the Bandit. WE drove 11 hours that day and 12 hours yesterday to get to Lynchburg.
WOW what an event at Lynchburg-even though we arrived late there were still lots of people, the military, veterans and bikers here. Later they treated us to a great dinner at the Golden Corral and later to bed at best Western,. Thanks a million times for your excellent support of our ever growing crew!
This morning we will lift off at 10:30 and head to leesburg. We will be staying at the Hyatt at Dulles.We hope lots of people come out to see the helicopters while we are there.
The only bad news is the secret service denied our permit to fly over the wall.-a huge dissapointment to us all, but we are re-submitting a request to fly over the Pentagon parking lot….
But our mission will continue with the thunder of our blades as we cross the US…
will post again soon as soon as I can..thanks to all of you..
Hey everyone on the flight crew and ground crew,
We had a great time meeting all of you yesterday and spending time with you all and eating! Bill and I and Chris and Tracie and all the Rolling Thunder group enjoyed getting to spend a little time with you at the Golden Coral. I especially enjoyed meeting and talking to Ruth and Van and Carol and Shayne. God bless you all and what you are doing. You are the greatest. It was so wonderful and inspiring to hear the rotors of that chopper take off and land. I can only imagine what that sounded like and meant to our brave soldiers on the ground wounded and waiting for their rescue!!!
We are praying for your safe trip back home and to have a great time at the Wall in DC.
Van and Ruth…I will pray for your safe return and for your Dad.
Hope to see you all next year!
On behalf of everyone Scott left behind at the University of California, Riverside, please accept our congratulations and thanks for a job well done. You are proving that dreams can come true, not only for yourselves, but for the thousands of people with whom you have come into contact, especially our veterans to whom we owe so much.
Sorry to hear you won’t be able to fly over the wall…keep at it though as governmental minds are subject to change at the drop of a hat!
My only request is that you send Scott home soon as work is piling up!
Where is the static display in Washington DC. My father, (Joseph Lomonaco Bandit 2 Crew Chief 1965-1966) and I will be in Washington 5/23, 5/24 & 5/25.
Guys I wanted to give you an update on the ramifications of this venture. due to the coverage in Memphis, two individuals contacted the reporter wanting to get in contact with me. The two people had been friends of my Dad when he was in the service. Now for you gun lovers here is the treat. One of them has a 1911 colt 45 which was one of the first 4000 given to the USMC. Yes folks not a copy !!!!!!!!!!!!!! The pistol had belonged to my father……I have been informed it is returning to me.
See folks, the healing and exposure is still working its magic as you guys continue to fly………….
Dear Shayne and Crew, Thanks for the memories….. Chris and I had a great time sharing with you. We started the day with two Marine Cobras and a Huey. who stopped to fuel on the way to New York City for Fleet Week. Spent some time talking with the crews. We go to lunch and come back to set up for your arrival. It is 2pm and you are due in at 4. All of a sudden we hear the rotors and see 2 craft off in the distance. We are looking at one another and Chris says it is not them . It is too early. The birds circle the field and drop in. What a surprise! The weather held and all had a good time. The airport manager was blown away by the response and told us that ya’ll could come back at any time. We had great TV news coverage today and a newspaper article. We look foward to seeing you again next year. God Bless and have a safe trip home. Thanks for honoring the veterans both present and past. Bill sugden USAF ‘61-’66.
HELLO FROM LEESBURG VIRGINIA!!!-
We are here! was a little windy on the flight but beautiful looking down on the lush green Virginia fields and mountains.
We will be out at all three helicopters Friday doing some maintenance and all weekend they will be open for the public.
PLEASE come and visit us! We are at Leesburg airport in front of the terminal.
We will also have our coins and T-shirts available.
DARREN-THE BANDIT WILL BE LANDING IN THE AFTERNOON TOMORROW-YOU CAN CALL ME AT 951-662-5653 FOR AN UPDATE-WOULD BE GREAT FOR YOU TO VISIT AND SEE HER LAND!!!
We are still trying different ways to get approval for the flyover-we won’t give up that easy.
It is great to be here and we look forward to meeting the folks here in the DC area. We are here for you VETERANS please come and visit!
as they say here “See yaaaa’lllllll”later
Shayne
Dear all, I am so close to tears as I read these notes, knowing there is 1,000 times more blood sweat and tears than reads in the words. I bet few of you knew the joy of that many miles in a jet powered carriage could be so smooth and quiet. Not.
I am so proud to be associated with this group through doing the Flying Thunder website at least. As a Marine, who flew over 200 combat missions as a Huey UH1E door gunner around those vacation spots such as Khe Sahn, Lao Bao, ConThien, Hue, A Shau Valley and the DMZ, this was a dream I’d hoped for some day, but alas my work kept me on the ground this time. I can feel the vibration, smell and feel the air coming though the door, rest my hand on the M-60 mount and recall the times I climbed onto the skid so I could knock on the door of the FNG boot LT flying his first mission and watch the size of his eyes when he found a person outside at 500 feet where a human shouldn’t be.
I will not forget the boot lieutenant, on his first dark of the moon recon extract, flew us straight at a ridgeline completely lit up with tracer rounds, all coming directly at us. When (casually and politely?) he was informed our guys had ONE flasher going in ONE mortar tube, he froze… but kept trying to say he was in charge of he extraction. We came home with only 150 holes in our Huey.
For those who are flying, my gratitude, respect and prayers. For those on the ground this time who flew, fought or are recognizing friends who did and didnot come back, I salute you and send a hearty thank you and Semper Fi!
For those who get to the wall… please touch the names of Edwin Keeble
EDWIN AUGUSTUS KEEBLE JR
and DAVID JACOBSGAARD
LOST Feb 1969
shot down over Laos . They gave to the villagers, they gave to their men, they gave to their country. I wish I could meet their wives and tell them just how terrific these two men were.
Keep your mission confidence strong, your faith constant, and your duct tape and safety wire plentiful!
God bless and fly with you all!
SGT John Beal (flyingthunder.org webmaster)
VMO-6 Gunships, “Seaworthy” 1968-1969
Quang Tri Province, Khe Sahn, A Shau Valley,
Con Thien, Lao Bao, Ca Lu, the Rockpile,
the Razorbck, DMZ and beyond.
Shayne,
I am disappointed that you were denied permission to fly over the wall. Please keep trying. I believe that your fly over of the wall will contribute greatly to thousands of participants in this important act of rememberance. There is a facility very close to your hotel called the National Capital Region Command Center (NCRCC) that maybe able to help you. Please call them at 703 563 3222 or 3219 and ask for the Secret Service Special Agent-In-Charge and exercise your rights as a taxpayer to make him listen to your proposal. It is EXTREMELY difficult to get permission to fly into the FRZ (Flight Restricted Zone), and even more difficult to penetrate Prohibited Area P-56, but the right person maybe able to Get-R-Done for a noble cause such as yours. If I can help please send me an email. Good luck and thanks for keeping those warbirds and icons of the Vietnam war flying and alive in people’s memory. The thumping of the UH-1 penetrates the heart and soul of any sensitive person who lived through that time and is a memorial in and of itself that should continue to sound.
I never got a ride in a Huey my entire tour in Vietnam, as luck would have it - only fixed wings. I was in signals intelligence with the 408th Radio Research Detachment at Chu Lai, supporting the 196th LIB and Americal Division. I worked swing shift as a Radio Traffic Analyst. Our compound was directly adjacent to a 1st Cav pad and the mission liftoff every morning was our alarm clock! I still love those birds and stop dead in my tracks and crane skyward every time a Colorado National Guard ship flies over my neigborhood.
A big salute to all of you on this Memorial Day weekend. I hope the inside track to the Secret Service given above will do you some good in getting clearance for the Wall overflight. God, it would mean so much to us vets.
Dick Field
408th RR Det/Americal Radio Research Co (Prov)
Chu Lai, 67-68
P.S. If anybody needs a soundtrack from the era, surf on over to RadioVietnam.net.
Hi Shayne, Scott and all of the crew, and van crew:
I am so happy to hear you all made it safe to Leesburg VA. I do hope you
will get permission to fly over the Wall. I pray you all have much success and please be safe….
I know this mission means so much to so many.
I hope to talk to you soon…..miss you.
Wish I was there, but I am in spirit…..Betty Dixon says hi..I sent her the blog site….
Did you hear about the Toronado? Right across from the March Museum. south of the Riverside National Cemetery. Turned over railroad cars…..
Take care all of you,
Have fun……
from Marilyn in rainy southern CA…….
Congratulations to all of you from Wings and Rotors who have sweated and bled for the opportunity to let America see the symbol of, and for many, their salvation in the Vietnam War.
The flight to the wall is a success already, since you and those helicopters have touched the lives of many who need closure and evidence that we did the right thing in fighting the war.
Closure comes by seeing and touching the helicopters and the veterans around them at each landing point, and evidence of the approval of today’s American Citizen for America’s Veterans grows with each landing those old birds make in the presence of well-wishers. The cause was noble and the effort was honorable.
Keep pushing for the flyover. An effort must be undertaken to succeed.
Government approval (for the overflight) or not, those of you from Wings and Rotors have done America and it’s Vietnam Veterans a great service with this multi-faceted journey…..
No matter what you all have done a wonderful job getting to DC. All of the comments in the blog show that people are really touched by the amazing effort you and the crew have put forth.
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You…… You have made all of us very proud and you need not be disappointed for any reason what so ever.
Like everyone says “Keep psuhing for the fly over”.
Be safe on the way back to Southern California and keep us all advised on your where abouts so that we can greet you when you land at home base.
There are many of us (Seadevils) that really thank you. Hope to see you on the MIDWAY with the new SEAWOLF HUEY!.
Have a wonderful “MEMORIAL DAY” at the “Wall” with all that came to see our “Veteran’s” presence.
To all of you involved with the Flight to the Wall.
Congratulations on a job well done. Still hoping that you get to make the flight over the wall.
I’m hoping that this will help to let all of our Viet Nam veterans know that “We love you” and we “Thank You” for your services. We are not all jerks in this country, but I’m sure that my brother thinks there is still one big jerk out there!
Enjoy your time of Glory, you deserve it.
It is a wonderful thing that you are doing and from the stories that I have read above it is a sight to see. Can’t wait to see the documentary of this event.
God bless you all and have a safe trip back to California.
To all men and women in the military today and yesteryear, have a
wonderful MEMORIAL DAY and Thank You again.
As I watch the events unfolding in Washington D.C. on Fox, I join other veterans in feeling a sense of pride as such a large motorcycle mounted flag leads the procession to the wall. As I start my 30th year as a Firefighter/Paramedic I find myself reflecting on the outstanding people I have had the priviledge to meet.
Carl, Steve, Randy and Tom did an excellent job of piloting the aircraft across our great country. Great work one and all. As a newly minted helicopter pilot I aspire to posses a fraction of thier skill and knowledge.
On this journey however, there are 7 people of whom I am truly in awe. Our Country has produced many Patriots and Heros. We, as a people are inspired by the self sacrifice of those who step out from the crowd. It is their quiet strenth and dignity that compel us to reach for our own higher purpose. It is the cornerstone of honor that they lay for the rest of us.
FRANK TRESENRIDER
VAN FERRY
RAY REINDERS
STEVE ROBERTS
RUTH FERRY & LYNDE ROBERTS
As a veteran of Army Aviation I realize that the helicopter has become a symbol of the struggles and hardships of our wars. They rode brave young souls into battle and rescued those who had fallen. The sound is like no other. The meaning so personal and private. They endure.
These people endure as well. The very core of Flying Thunder is dedicated to our Combat Veterans. The emotions of the aircraft flying in, the memories brought forward by the sound. The eyes thankfully covered by dark glasses.
It is the superlative behind the scenes work of 4 Viet Nam Combat Vets that inspires me. FRANK who remains these helicopters most ardent supporter. Who is pictured on the W&R website as he installs the main rotor on the Bandit. Who stayed behind as others flew to accomplish the mission yet never had the chance to fly on this event himself. VAN who humbles us by his personal sacrifices and donations. A man that is a pillar of virture and kindness. RAY who must truly be the Hero of the Seawolves for his dilligent efforts and personal contributions and is still every inch the Marine. STEVE whose willingness to work in even the most mundane tasks as he keeps such a great attitude. It is his laughter echoing thru the hanger that is one of my favorite memories of W&R.
Make no mistake, each and every one is a giant of a man. These four have witnessed first-hand the horrors of war. Yet they continue to embody the kind of spirit and virtue that brings healing and closure to their comrades in arms.
RUTH and LYNDIE, and Mrs. Ray wherever you are. You walk with the angels as you support and care for our warriors. As you read the messages above you come to appriciate how much this flight has meant to countless others. This spirit also resides in you. To this day you continue to heal the wounds of war. For this you are truly blessed.
There are times when you find yourself in the presence of greatness. Many is the hour I spent in the hanger with these men. I am awed when I reflect on the road they have traveled to be there. I am humbled when I consider that they can find room in their heart to call me friend.
Sadly there are those in our society who step up quickly to grab an honor that might not be theirs. Who may perhaps represent themselves as something they are not. Or maybe they subvert rewards and monies intended for heroes and giants. This is not their day.
This is what I posted to our Huey web site last night. I was going to write another one for the blog but then, when I read it again, it fits here perfectly. The note starts below. God Bless Pat and the entire Crew for all the hard work, sweat, blood and money out of your own pockets to make this happen!
Well the saga of Pat and crew flying to the Wall in DC to honor ALL Veterans, from ALL Wars has, so far, been very, very interesting indeed!! They started with five birds, one “H” model Slick, three “B” models, (two Gunships, one Navy, one Army & one Dust-Off) and one OH-58 Scout Bird. Thanks to our wonderful FAA Legal department the Seawolf “B” model Gunship can’t fly to honor those brave Navy Heros that fought their battles down and dirty in the mud and slime of their AO. The Helicopter flies just fine, the only thing that kept it from making the trip to Honor these Brave Men and Women on the Wall is a slip of paper that the FAA Legal Department didn’t like???? Now if that’s not a crock of the biggest load of BS I have ever seen in my life then I don’t know what is! Yes Sir Ladies and Gentlemen, we’re from the government and we’re here to help you, HAH!
The “H” model just ran out of time. Before they could get it
finished and ready to fly they had to stop and play catch up with the rest of the flight or they would have missed out on Mondays events and they couldn’t do that! I have a feeling that after Pat and the gang get back and rest up for a while the “H” model will be strutting her stuff right up there with the best of them. They almost made it but, at the end, Pat had to call it and since the load is on him I have to agree that he did the correct and safe thing. I know how hard that call was to make but it was the right thing to do.
Now for the Wall and the “no fly zone”. They had permission to fly over but not land???? Why not? Is an “armed Huey” a scarey sight to the paper pushers up there in DC even if the “guns” and “rockets” are replicas and cannot be made to fire in any way by anybody. The Secret Service is going to check them out anyway, EVEN THOUGH THEY WON’T LET THEM DO THE FLY OVER OR LAND THEY ARE STILL GOING TO CHECK
THEM OUT! Don’t worry, the Secret Service came through and
cancelled even that, NO FLY OVER EITHER!!!! Man, ya just never know when those replica guns and rocket pods might turn into the real thing and blast someone all to hell and back! That part of this makes me want to puke! Can’t you see what an impressive and wonderful sight that would be? One Huey landing then coming to a three foot hover, tilting the nose down in a salute to our fallen Men and Women, then pedal turning and joining the flight in a “missing man” formation as they left for their next stop???? Yeah, I can see the danger that the Secret Service sees with that one………….Right!
Then we have the most wonderful Smithsonian Museum say in writting that they could land on their LZ and stay for the entire time they would be in DC. WAIT, ONLY JOKING!! We can’t let these type of people spend any time on our property. We have an image to uphold ya know…….. …
Man I’ve come across some real idiots during the 32 plus years that I have worked on and flown all types of aircraft but damn if the pencil necked Geeks in DC make them ALL look like bums that don’t even know how to read and write!! Pat, Shayne, John, Roxy, (sorry for all you guys and gals that I left out) and the rest of the Crew from California are doing this on their own time, with Pat’s Museums own Helicopters, a lot of their own money and they can’t even fly a “missing man formation” over the Wall to Honor those Brave young Men and Ladies and what they did for their country. Things like this make me sad, very sad, to see the way that Vietnam Veterans are still being treated after 40 or more years. Yes Sir, spit on when we came home, signs saying they are glad that the person being buried is dead, Jane Fonda making jokes while being illegally in North Vietnam, sitting on an anti-aircraft battery, laughing at the smoking wreakage of a shot down B-52 bomber, turning in slips of paper passed to her by the Hanoi Hilton prisoners who had written their SSANs so that she could let their families know that they were still alive, after the cameras were turned off she gave these notes to the NVA Camp Commander!!! ! This caused a couple of prisoners to be beaten to death and many more to be injured for life…….. .and for what???? So that these fine people can’t even land or do a fly over to Honor these Heros of our time???? What exactly is this world coming to???? If anyone out there knows PLEASE tell me what it is!! As far as I’m concerned it SUCKS…………….
The people in “charge” of our country have passed up something that would have gone a long way to repairing the evil that was done to ALL Korean and Vietnam Veterans when they arrived home. We did the same things that our WWII and WWI Veterans did and they came home to parades, not spit! I can’t believe that the politicians would miss an oppertunity for a massive photo op and a hell of a lot of sound bites by once again ignoring our fallen Heros. What a shame for them, what an insult for us!
Hello all from Washington DC. We made it for sure. The last 3 days have allowed us to catch our breath, do some scheduled maintenance and reflect on the past journey we have made. We had our bumps in the road but we are here! Sadly we were denied the approval to fly over the wall, but our mission continues to honor our veterans. maybe next time.
Friday night we visited the wall, the first time for many of us. It was a beautiful evening and light glowed from the surrounding memorials. I was taken back by the wall as it sank into the ground, starting at just a few inches high then coming to a point that seemed to tower over me like a forest. The thousands of names were overwhelming. It was quiet, sacred ground and I was truly humbled by its powerful message. Human sacrifice like no other. Its hard to explain,, but I felt small, that anything that bothered me truly went away and was meaningless. I was for moment with them and the families of all those brave names, and was proud of them all. I wondered if what we were attempting really made any difference, and then I thought of the thousands of veterans who still walk this earth and have seen us and talked to us, made me realize it was really
important. I and all of us on the flight have so much dreamed of flying over that wall showing our tribute to them and everyone on the ground.
Maybe next time.
Everyone on this event, EVERYONE has put in hundreds of hours in volunteer time to make this event happen. Our brave and extremely skilled pilots led by PAT RODGERS, CARL ALLEN, RANDY ZAHN, LARRY CLARK, TOM WOEHL, JOHN HARRIS,-(no pilot named Steve) have navigated the deserts, mountains, fields of Oklahoma, through winds and rain to get us all here SAFELY. And I KNOW they will get us all home safe as well.
Our other aircrew members, Steve, Scott, Ray, Van, and myself also have given our all to make this a special event, working together as a team. Rick Rybarcyk a retired Marine and A&P mechainic worked feverishly to get out H model flying, knowing all along every day was another day he could not be with the rest of us on the trip, yet never a complaint. he finally joined us in Oklahoma after repairing the Bandit and then was able to finally fly. He made it here to DC but now has to fly home to go back to work. Van and Ruth and Frank-we are sorry to see you leave for a family emergency-our prayers are with you and you will be missed. Linde, Carole and Dianna have worked so hard as support crew, driving, getting rooms etc..every person here is a key player. Roxane and Pat-just coming on board I know will do the same,,and we won’t forget Kid Dane-a tireless hard worker who is always happy, always helps”and by the way is also a pilot! what a whipper snapper-we are proud to have him along!
make no mistake-we are all heroes to eachother and tomorrow we will had out to Raleigh on our return home, with our heads held high for what we have accomplished so far. So good night our friends, soon the green fields of Virginia will hear the wop wop sounds of rotor baldes in the morning as we head south–
over and out-talk to ya later.
me
I wanted to correct a couple of things that I said in my blog. 1st of all it’s been 39 years since I started my Aviation Adventure. It was 1969 when I came back for my 2nd tour of Vietnam. I reported in to the head clerk An Khe, found out who’s hands needed greasing to get new gear & a good Hootch, both were VERY important, believe me!! I found out that I was attached to the last 1st Cav Aviation Group to leave. We were there a few months before we went to Rocket City, let’s see who remembers that one & what it was really named?? When we finally got An Khe turned over to the 4th Infantry Division I was sorry to go! An Khe was a great base, (as long as you didn’t get guard duty at tower 6 I think it was, right up on the main trail to Hong Kong Mountain), ask someone else who’s been there and they will fill you in. I know, I know, I spelled Hong Kong wrong but that’s the way we both said it and called it & I can’t see changing now!
2nd mistake was to not put all of the names of the hard working people in my attempt at my 1st blog. The only reason was that I didn’t know who was and who wasn’t coming. I meant no offense to anyone that is with Pat & Shayne & the rest of the crew on this most wonderful trip, none at all. If I had a list of who’s on the trip I would gladly list them ALL because they ALL deserve to be mentioned, hell, they deserve a lot more than that and I wish I could give it to them. The money, blood, sweat and tears came from ALL of them! I just wish that my old back would have let me make the trip with them, then you would have seen some tears behind the sunglasses & the visor!!
Sorry that I missed someone, again, no offense meant!! I will do better the next time, that is a promise!!!!
Ed in SC, Primary MOS 11B4P, Secondary MOS 67N4P (I liked the 2nd one a lot better, so did my feet)!!
RVN 68-70, thinking about going back and saying hi to the places that I saw as a Boy that VERY soon made me a Man!!
Hello to all especially Frank Tressenrider from the 17th AHC
I will be at WALL SOUTH today in pensicola florida to honor the crew of
66-16209 lost 4/21/1968 near the ashaw valley.
I wish the flight could have included WALL SOUTH as one of the stops
I am sure your group would have been welcomed there with real southern
hospetality not red tape and bull shit
Mark Jamerson the son of Larry Jamerson (father) lost on 16209 may meet
the crew in south carolina at your stop there please tell him I said hello
Shayne and the rest of the crew from Wings and Rotors Air Museum. I know how disappointed you were not being able to fly over D.C. and honor all of the veterans with the wonderfull work you did restoring the aircraft. I hope as you continue with your flight you will take with you what a great service you have done for one Vietnam Veteran and his family.
When my father left Vietnam in 1966, left his friends, left the 118th, and left Bandit 2 on the airfield, he said good bye and never spoke of it agian. As the oldest of five children and a former Army member I could see he was holding a part of his life inside that he should have been proud of and thanked for every day however when he returned and reentered society he was made to hide his service and not speek of it.
My father has no real friends who served in Vietnam nor does he belong to any veterans groupes. He has never been able to talk to other people who sharred his expearances has never been welcomed by his comrads and never thanked for his service to his country.
That all changed for him on 5/23/08. When we walked no to the flight line in Leesburg he met people who did what he did when they were 19, who left behind what he left behind and once shared the pain he has held inside for 42 years.
When your crew members began to speak with him and asked him to share his expearances they were letting him know it was OK. He was back with friends and brothers he did not even know he had.
When Bandit 2, the same aircraft on which he spent a year of his life maintaining, cleaning, caring for and fighting from, came over the tree tops and landed infront of him with you guys putting your hands on his shoulders and patting him on the back and letting him know that what he did 42 years ago was something to be honored and proud of was beautyfull.
I have never seen my father treated with such respect and the look on his face when he was reunited with his old aircraft brougfht tears to my eyes.
Thank you all for what you have done for all veterans and words can not describe the thanks me and my family have for what you have done. Thank You for welcoming my father home.
Thanks a lot Jody Gomez for the pat on the back!! It sure was appreciated. BTW, did you have a Brother named Carlos? He was my Door Gunner and a fine one too until he caught a .51 in the wrong place. It happened just outside of LZ Buttons in mid 69, sorry, can’t remember the date. As for my writting, I just try my best to call them as I see them and for the Navy to get screwed by one piece of paper that some pencil necked geek in Ok City just does not do them justice!! I only wish that the guys & gals flying the Thunder route could have had some push somewhere with the Feds. They have been getting screwed around on this for many months and the outcome was not even close to being fair, not even close!! I wish I knew who to write to make the right kind of noise so this doesn’t happen again, EVER!!
As for the fly over of the Wall, G.W. even stated that it would be a fine sight to see them doing the fly over on the TV News last night! Guess no one told him that his wonderful Secret Service pulled the plug on that too.
My Brother was Navy, one of those “cool, ray ban wearing, Fighter Pilots”, my Father was a Marine, joined when he was 15, went through WWII where he was “Mustanged” into a Butter Bar because there were only TWO men left out of his Platoon, then he did Korea & 2 or 3 tours in Vietnam for a total of over 30 years in The Corps. I was Army with 2 tours in Vietnam so you can imagine what our family reunions were like!! We used to let Dad get “into his cups” of Jack Daniels & start in on Chesty Puller, what branch of Service was on both his paycheck & ID card, and the show was on!! He couldn’t run thank God but he could throw stuff & he was fairly good at it too!! Many a time I wished that I had kept my big mouth shut when Mom or my Wife was repairing a split lip or something along those lines. It was all in fun though, we were still family ater the bombs stopped falling.
Take Care & God Bless EVERYONE involved in this wonderful trip!
Shayne
Terry Mann here from AL just want to say congratulations on making it to DC We are all here pulling for you and can’t wait to see the fly in at Pell City an update we are still stealing and plucking chickens but don’t worry we will at least have a cold beer and a hot grill waiting for you when you get here as of now we are expecting a good turn out and we are getting great support this is great thing you are doing our prayers are with you
Terry Mann
Hello from Raleigh NC! We left this morning and headed to our first fuel stop in Richmond VA. What a great place. We were welcomed by a small but friendly crowdwho enjoyed the Hueys. Then Nancy-the great FBO manager took us upstairs and fed a great lunch! BBQ, all the fixins, ice tea and to top it off peach cobbler with ice cream!! Thanks so much for feeding us hungry crew dogs!! Your generosity will not be forgotten.
Tomorrow we head to Gaffney SC for a planned event there that we are sure will be fun and have lots of veterans. Thanks to you all for the great posts! We will press on tomorrow!!
Shayne and the crew
To Darren, thank you for your wonderful thoughts, it brought tears to my eyes. It is truly days like this with your dad that makes what we do worth all the work and long hours. It fuels us to continue our mission to do the same for other veterans..we are so happy he enjoyed the time with us. Today I opened that nose door and saw his signature on it,,know that we will always preserve it as it is now and always will be part of Bandit 2..
Shayne and crew, I am very touched by all of the messages and the great mission you are on. You truly have touched many lives and probably saved many sad veteran’s souls. There is no greater calling than giving to others.
Thank you all, and Please be safe on your journey home. This proves there are many good souls out there in our great country. They all need to be heard…..enjoy meeting more great veterans and good people out there helping you along the way…..
Thinking of all of you,
Take good care,
from, Marilyn
On the Way to Gaffney this morning with my two grand sons. I can’t wait to hear the Hueys as the approach the LZ. I hope tol have the opportunity to see, hear, and feel these aircraft, talk the aircrew, and other Veterans that will attend. It will be a great history lesson for these young men too. But most of all I want to honor those Veterans that made the ultimate sacrafice for this great country. Take care guys and have a safe flight. You are doing a wonderful Job and we thank you so much.
Shayne: by now you are heading back to CA. Like all reunions, the depression sets in but the great memories will kick in. Really sorry that you were denied permission for the fly-over The Wall. My father was responsible for getting the first two names on the Wall–Major Buis & Sgt Ovenard who were killed under his command July, 1959, when we lived in Saigon. I know that two other Infantrymen’s families appreciate all your efforts. They were hit in 1967 as I failed to bring them home. This Memorial Day I spent with my family and grandchildren. I know the latter will thank you when they are old engough to understand. See you when you return. Best, Nat Ward, Lt. “D” Co, 2/8 Cav, First Cav Div. 1967 PS: I will deliver the Cav shield to March Museum after you get back.
Shayne and crew from Wings and Rotors:
I would like to personally thank everyone of you for what you have done for my dad. Like my brother Darren said, my dad never really spoke of the war except for some bits and pieces here and there when I saw a picture of something, but the subject was changed quickly. Everything was packed away such as pictures, clothing, memories, etc. Until I walked into the airport with my dad I never in 18 years saw that type of look on his face. He was finally proud to talk about it and explain what happened. Most importantly, he was respected, acknowledged, and admired for something so important, yet unspoken of.
I was not there to see Bandit 2 land, but from the videotapes I know it meant more than it may have seemed. The fact that he was patted on the back and recognized after 42 years, from what I can see, is an undescribable feeling for him. Also, I was grateful that because of people like you, this weekend was possible.. It was a learning expeirence for myself, and an all together amazing expeirence for my family, especially my dad.
All in all, thank for every minute of hard work and dedication put into restoring Bandit 2- it means more than you know.
Thank you so much again and God Bless,
Olivia Lomonaco
Sorry to have bailed on you Monday but some of us still have to work for a living!!! Words escape me when I try to express how much it meant to be a part of Flying Thunder. For two weeks I was 20 years old again and flying the B model was a thrill, well….except for the malfunctioning FCU!
Carl, you were an awesome stick buddy and now a good friend. Tom, thanks for sending me to the moon all those years ago. Rocket…Big Red One and Charlie Troop flew again!!
Shayne, Pat, Scott, Rick, Carol, et al…thanks so much for being such great team members. Your efforts made it all possible.
I am still baffled that with our collective 200+ years of military service our government deamed us a security risk!!! Go figure.
You guys have a safe trip home and stay in touch. When Flying Thunder 2 gets planned….include me.
You guys are awesome,
Good morning everyone..here we are in Gaffney SC,,muggy as hell. We left Raleigh and the helo’s first landed in Gastonia for fuel. Gaffney was amazing. They landed in the parking lot near the Police station, one at a time they approached and landed perfectly. We had a leats 500 people come out and swarm us all afternoon. The city had a nice presentation with ROTC color guard and all. They finished it off with taps. The people here are so nice and we were treated like kings. Later we had a BBQ next to a historic cabin. A little rain came but the rotor blades all needed a wash anyway.
Today we are off to Georgia and Birmingham. may have a little weather on the way,,,thanks for all the great posts, will chat with you later..
Shayne and the crew!!
Sorry I had to come back to California early. Despite the rough start we seemed to have pulled off the impossible by making to Virginia. The list seems endless of all the people to thank. But special thanks to ALL the great people at Wings and Rotors for allowing me to participate. Be safe. God Speed.
Rick
God bless you and the entire gang for what you have accomplished. Like all the others who visited you in Leesburg I was amazed at how great all the helos were. i think it was Ron or Frank who thought that they were too clean — and that maybe they should be dirtied up some so they would look like they did 35 years ago.
When all the dust settles from 2008 and you start thinking about 2009 and the flight over/to the Wall, please send a mass email to us so we can contact the right people and add our voices to yours. Rolling Thunder was fine but a flyover by the helos would have been so wonderful, so powerful, and such a media event, that the memory of it would have lasted a lifetime.
Hi Everyone in the Crew! It had been many years since I actually flew a Huey but when Pat said, “the helicopter is yours” I started remembering things really, really, fast!! It was a wonderful feeling being back at the controls of one of those most wonderful birds. My emontions ran the gambit from WOW to, am I really here, flying again, or is it a dream? Pat is one of the very best sticks that I have ever flown with, BAR NONE and I’ve flown with some damn fine ones since I started in 1969 in An Khe, Vietnam, Republic of, to paraphrase a line from a movie. The ground crew was AWSOME!! The first thing I got when we landed was a big, hard hug from Shayne!! I was looking forward to meeting her in the flesh even though it seems that we’ve known each other for years! I only wish that I had her painter’s talent, at least as much as she has in one finger! That Lady knows how to paint. Scott, her husband, is a great guy, quiet but still a great guy that I like a lot. Roxy & her future husband were great, heck, EVERYONE in that crew, both air and ground are GREAT people that used their tears, blood, guts and money to do this for ALL Veterans and they deserve ALL the credit for a job VERY WELL DONE!!!! I salute you all & can’t wait to get to California to meet the rest of the Guys and Gals that had to leave at DC and go back to work. I had a fellow 1/9th WO3 fly as my Crew Chief and Pat had Scott as his. They both did a wonderful job of making sure we were fastened in correctly, that the doors were secure and the blades were clear. I wouldn’t mind a bit going into battle with either one of them on the guns and Pat as the “Principle Pilot”! As I said before, he is a fine stick for sure. I hate to say that I am terrible at remembering names but I consider talking with my WO3 all about the 1st Cav and who we knew and who we missed and who got killed that should have been home and here with us. It was GREAT talking with him and with all the Crew.
Everyone that has called & emailed me all day talking about the helicopters and how great they and the crews were made me proud to be a “member” of that crew for two days, VERY proud indeed!! I would fly anywhere with these guys and gals and not worry a minute about doing it either! With Roxy as the A&P checking every Copter over to make sure they were ready to go, the Pilots and Crew Chiefs doing their checks, I felt as safe as a babe in his Mother’s arms. My wife Michele re-enacts as an Army Nurse when ever we go to any Vietnam event and she makes a pretty good one. We still have to work on her salute but she is getting there. A lot of people stopped to speak to her and ask for her autograph even though she made sure that they knew she was not a real Vietnam Nurse, she was just there to honor them, they still wanted her to sign their posters! I signed so many posters that my right hand is still sore! What a day! Having that happen to me made me feel that finally, after all the years have passed, I was welcomed home. That’s a feeling that can’t be explained, you had to have been there to know what I mean.
One thing to ALL Veterans, last year Congress & the Senate, in a move that surprised me, (doing something that made sense), passed a law that states that ALL Veterans, in or out of uniform, may salute the Flag when it passes or when a salute would be required if you were in uniform. This lets people know that you are a Veteran. I saw a few do so but a lot of people haven’t gotten the word yet so we need to pass it around. I will do so today on our web site & I hope that all reading this will pass it along too.
I think it’s wonderful the joy you have brought to my grandpa, Jerome Montoya. I would like to make an appreciative shout out on youtube and maybe a few pictures, but i don’t have all the names of the people that flew and participated. If you would please either e-mail them to me or respond it would help a lot. (LilMermiad2010@yahoo.com)
Ed and All, I was your CWO3, Apache and ElLobo 16, 9th Cav CE and it was a pleasure flting along with you. I have pretty much stayed out of the limelight since I still work for DoD. The Army Recruiting Command has helped a great deal with this flight by their support to Wings and Rotor - The ARMY CAN DO is still very much alive and we carry their markings on our support vehicles and the aircraft.
Was myself disappointed when we did not receive TSA clearence to perform the fly-by over OUR Wall Memorial but can understand their opinion. The only thing I was a little miffed at was their reason for the denial; SECURITY RISK! The Wall is for everyone; especially for those of us that came home wounded and disabled. A flight of three Vietnam war birds carrying decorated Vietnam veterans that are on both sides of the age 60 group do not constitute a Security Risk.
We felt the deepest honor and respect that could be shown to OUR WALL was to fly over The Wall and let so many people that were there to once again hear and feel the Thunder of the Huey and Kiowa rotor blades that would be followed by the smell of burning jet fuel.
For me personally, the TSA response was in poor taste as it was, and still is, an agency that is protected by the very names on The Wall and the living that are still fighting other peoples wars.
22 names on The Wall were my friends 28 years ago. I wish I could have flown over those names in their honor as they were all 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) crew members and pilots. The best of the best when it came to being called “Gods Own Lunatics”.
WE CAN, WE WILL
Headhunter and ElLobo 16, Red X-Ray and Blue Lift X-Ray
War Zone C & D, III Corps and Cambodia 1970-71
Thank you from Alabama
I post a few things on here for my dad Terry Mann SeaWolf. Usually he comes over to my house and tells me what he wants to say and I type it up not that he can’t but he chooses not to. But tonight at this late hour these are my own words from the son a Navy SeaWolf Vietnam Veteran. He found out about the flight to the wall on line which to be honest scares me because he was online looking and asked if I would help him support well try to host a proper Alabama welcome. Like so many I have read about on here my dad has spoken very little in my 30 + years about his Vietnam days. But with the thought of seeing a Huey in action again and maybe just maybe getting to see one he actually worked on 37 years ago he really opened up. He has always been proud of his service but only spoke of it around close family and friends but with this he really opened up to anyone who would listen and some who didn’t he didn’t care he had a story to tell. I still can’t believe we got him on a live radio broadcast to promote the landing and let me say he did great. At this point I need to say thank you to Pell City Alabama, you really made today great for all the crew and the veterans. And now how do I say thank you to Flying Thunder. The few short hours we got to spend with you created memories and friendships that will last a life time. Thank you just is not enough what you are doing for the Vietnam veterans is great. Of all the wars Vietnam is the one where our heroes came home with there head down to a country that would not accept them, but today I saw their heads held high and I am sure this is the same with every stop you make. To all the crew of Flying Thunder you created some great memories today, thank you thank you
James Mann
Terry Mann Navy SeaWolf
Hi,
I’m part of the ground crew for Flying Thunder and would like to share some of my pictures. I have them posted on http://www.Flickr.com. Search Tags for Flying Thunder. The first picture is a night shot of the Wall. If you select more pictures by Roblynbxrs you can see the first leg of our flight. Please and your comments, names if you recognise yourself as I didn’t always get names. Thank you all for the wonderful response.
At the bottom of the page click on #3–then look to view as slide show–Lynde–WOW is an understatement. Being at the dedication on May 13 in Murrietta and following the blog several times a day has been great–but to see the pictures again re-kindled that warm feeling seeing all that welcomed you along the way. To see the bikes you can almost hear the wop-wop of the blades. The inflight pictures of the Helos brings back some glorious memories. Thank you all and have a safe flight home.
To Pat Rodgers and Shayne Meter,
Many children and many adults (especially veterans), will always remember the day “Flying Thunder” came to Gaffney, South Carolina. The awe-inspiring sight of those Huey’s coming in for a landing was spectacular, and for many of us (veterans and their families), especially those Viet Nam veterans (Ronnie and Robert ) who, along with others, made the flight from Gastonia to Gaffney, it was the homecoming they never received at the end of the war. My thanks to Wings and Rotors and the entire crew, the City of Gaffney, South Carolina, and to James Smith and the Cherokee County Veterans Museum for giving our residents, and especially our veterans, our military personnel and their families, this special day. My heart literally stopped and tears came to my eyes with the beauty of those Hueys in flight, and the thought of what this means to the people of Gaffney. I felt the tears come again as “Flying Thunder left for Spartanburg on the morning of May 28, 2008, and watched as residents waved long after the helicopters were out of sight.
PFT, wife of Robert, handler of Nemo, Viet Nam, 1966
Sorry that I am so bad with names! I can say that you were the best Crew Chief that I ever had!! It was a heck of a lot of fun talking to you about the 1st of the 9th and the people that we both knew there & those that made it only to be killed in a Huey with fixed floats, (Norm Coons, one of the best sticks that I ever flew with & a great singer to boot)! He was almost back to the airport too damnit! I was so happy to see you & I tried my best to get up & see you off but the back wouldn’t let me. I was jammed up until 1500 or so & couldn’t really move. I wanted to give you a hug first & a salute second so I owe you both. Getting to fly again was fun & I think that after 23 or so years I did OK. Please email me at draider6@yahoo.com & lets keep in touch. Have you heard from Jerry, I am the MAN, Boyle lately? I’ve tried him a few times but no joy. I want to see when Apache Sunset is coming out or if it already has. Apache Sunrise was a GREAT book & I’m glad that I read it.
I will be most proud to fly 2nd stick to you or any of the A/Cs anytime at all, just give me a call & I’m on the way! There were a bunch of GREAT Pilots there that day & I tried to sit as tall as possible & not let you down with my stick time. I counted 30 mics flight time all total but it felt like 15 seconds it was over so fast!! I had the stick from Gastonia to Gaffney & I can’t remember how many hours I got stick time in Vietnam? I had a 1LT that liked to shoot so I got to learn to fly, great trade for me. The mountains around An Khe were beautiful except for the tracers coming up at us!!!! Heck as a Snake Driver you never saw any of that did ya?? :-)~
Welcome home Sir! Welcome home to all in the crew & all of those on the ground that this trip was about. You Guys & Gals from Wings & Rotors are the best! Pat & Smitty here in Gaffney & Blacksburg did all the work & deserve all the kudos. The Gaffney City Council did a great job of backing us too. I just wish that I could have done more but next time I will do better & will remember my special chair so my durn back doesn’t go out.
BTW, I have a CD of Norm’s songs that his sister Myra sent me. If you’d like a copy just send your address & it will be on the way.
Here it is. Two days since I’ve flown with you guys and am missing every second. I never expected to see the comraderie that I experienced back in the “old days”. Things were great. Thanks to all of you for making this a true heartwarming experience. As usual, us pilots were the prima donnas and watched all of the others work. The people driving the support vehicles and coordinating the support logistics deserve an extra pat on the back. See you back in Murrieta. Most importantly, be safe. Thanks for the great memories.
Seawolf Gunship to fly, Through the efforts of many including OVERSEAS AIRCRAFT SUPPLY and WINGS/ROTORS MUSEUM and i am sure others. I was notified by Pilots Pat Rodgers and Larry Clark the FAA has Registered the SEAWOLF TO FLY AGAIN. thanks to all involved. Maybe Next time it will be on the Fly to the Wall.Thanks to all that helped and to all those Vets , and Families that met the birds at each Stop. YOU DID GOOD . SEAWOLF Bill Rutledge
Gret to see you at Leesburg and what a treat to see Frank again after almost 40 years. Hueys looked great and I can appreciate the amount of work and time that went into having them flyable again and the trip to Va and back. Wish i could have been on board. Really a bummer about not being able to fly over the WALL. Politicians, they will be the end of this country unless people vote them out.
Thanks again.
May 13th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
just wanted to test this out!
May 13th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
just a test…
May 13th, 2008 at 9:56 pm
TEST
May 14th, 2008 at 12:17 am
Looks like it works great!!!! I am riding the 1st 3 days to Angel fire then have to go back to working both jobs. The B model looked impressive over the Cemetary this morning. It was even clean on the bottom….Nice turn out at French Valley ( I liked the hot dogs as well) and I appreciate the nice welcome, hugs, kisses and handshakes from Scott, Carole, Shayne, Rox (and almost a hubbie), Steve, FRANK, rick, Van, Judy, RAY and Geoff.
I’ll let you know how you looked from the riders point of view. Please don’t take any unnecessary risks!!!!!!! Come back safe.
May 14th, 2008 at 2:32 am
Shayne and Crew,
Best of luck on the Flying Thunder trip. Be safe and do us all proud.
“Fling-Wing Flyers Forever!”
Phil sends……..
May 14th, 2008 at 11:50 am
here we are 2 hrs from liftoff-not much sleep last night,,excited,,nervous,,we have waitied over a year for this..we will see how it goes..
thanks to everyone who has supported us and helped us on this journey,,and special thanks to John at Overseas Aircraft-his heart is as big as the moon. If not for him we would be flying Cessna’s to the wall…
ok gotta get ready to go-will chat more later,,
bye ya’ll
May 14th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Look forward to seeing you guys in Angel Fire on Friday. Have a great flight!
May 14th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Have a great journey; we are all proud of your effort.
Take a few photos along the way and post some later.
It’d be great if you can give us your route/ETA so our
friends along the way can ecourage you in your effort.
Take care and FLY SAFE !!!
Cheers - - - Charlie
May 14th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Have a GREAT flight, and enjoy the journey! You all have certainly earned it, and may the Spirits of the Wall guide you safely.
Look forward to your updates.
May 14th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
Blog link is up on the Flying Thunder site http://www.flyingthunder.org for all to find.
Us former combat air crew guys all over wish we could be with you. Sending our best regards, prayers and standing by w/ duct tape and safetywire.
Semper Fi
John
May 14th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
Have a safe journey, I will be with your in spirit!!!
LaVonna
May 14th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Correction! I will be with YOU in spirit!!!!
Take care,
LaVonna
May 14th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Great seeing all of your at airport. You go girl–and Pat too. Best, Nat
May 14th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Great seeing all of your at airport. You go girl–and Pat too. Best, Nat
May 14th, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Yesterday at the Seawolf Gunship Dedication and start of the Flight to the wall was Fantastic, thanks to all that attended and Bravo Zulu to the Wings/Rotor staff, maintainers and Support personnell ., hope our Seawolf Gunship Gets the OK and Flys with you. KEEP YOUR TURNS UP , KEEP SAFE and let the EAGLES FLY. Great seeing Pat, Shanyne and Nat Ward again. See you Soon SR Chief B.Rutledge
May 15th, 2008 at 6:24 am
I got all the poster you sent me posted at many VFW and American legion I made sure the had a lot of Vietnam veteran. See you in El Paso . Call me before you lift off at your last stop before El Paso . 915 491 9105.
May 15th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
here we are in bullhead. great weather through the mountains to barstow. left barstow and it was pretty windy through the desert to bullhead. every time we saw motorcycles we flew circles around them. our pilots were randy zahn and carl allen awesome pilots! atayed at the Avi hotel. lots of people came to see us. now were are off to flagstaff.. see yall later shayne
May 15th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Glad to hear that your first leg went well. It’s a wonderful thing that you are doing and I just want to say ” Never Forget a Vet”. Have a safe and memorable journey. Looking forward to your updates. Randy, be safe.
God Bless America
May 15th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
Great to hear everything is going well. We think what you’re all doing is fantastic. As fellow Rotorheads and Veteran advocates, Donna and I have a great understanding of what you’ve all put into this effort and greatly appreciate what your doing and especially who you’re doing it for. Folks here in Knoxville, TN, are really excited about you all coming through and have really stepped up to the plate to make your stop here a memorable and easy one. Everythings ready to go!
Clell Jenkins
“President”
Rolling Thunder TN3
Knoxville, Tennessee
May 15th, 2008 at 10:19 pm
Hullo y’all! I’ve been watching all the “Rolling Thunder” motorcycles headed east on I-40 passing through Kingman ARIZONA the past couple of days, and now the pleasure of seeing this “Flying Thunder” helicopter unit at our airport here this morning Thursday, 5/15/08…. it was a great experience, and am really thankful to have had this opportunity, and be just a little part of this super-event! Best of luck to all, have a great journey, and ENJOY yourselves when you reach your destination! Enjoy this time you get to spend together! Give a wave when you fly back over us on your way home from the WALL…… BE SAFE!
May 15th, 2008 at 10:25 pm
It’s great to see that the trip has started!! We wish you all the best of luck from Upstate South Carolina!! I’ll be waiting at Gastonia with Michele and I have no idea who else for the flight to Gaffney. You can’t imagine how much we are looking forward to this!! It’s been so long since I’ve been inside a flying Huey that I barely remember what it feels like, I’m sure that it’ll come back to me real fast or Pat will smash me in the back of the helmet with a steel notebook!! It’s wonderful news that you’ll have all of the birds in the air including the “H” model. You guys are all the best!! We can’t wait to meet the rest of you and show you our work in progress, (without you guys & Gals it would NEVER have happened), all we can say is thank you from the bottom of our hearts and remember, you are flying at least one 1st of the 9th bird. I know that it’s restored to another “B” model but it started as a 1st of the 9th bird so it will always be one to me……………..Thanks again, Ed
May 15th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
Looking forward to seeing you in Gaffney, SC on the 27th. I am very excited about the possibility being around the huey one more time. It has been a long time since my crew-chief days with the 9th Aviation Battalion in Vietnam. There is nothing and never will be anthing to compare with the thtill of flying the huey, the sounds and smells. Thanks guys for what you are doing. Have a safe trip. Wayne
May 16th, 2008 at 2:41 am
To all the participants:
You are all doing something Great! The flight you are taking is more than just a flight. It is a message that America cares about its Veterans. We need to know this for many have made sacrafices for the freedoms we all enjoy. God speed our message across this great land of ours. My prayers and thoughts will be with you all. Say ‘Hi’ to my buds for me; Carl, John, and Larry. God Speed!!
May 16th, 2008 at 3:55 am
First I’d like to thank seawolf gunner Senior Chief Bill Rutledge for all the information posted on this seawolf gunship. He updates our forum daily. I live in North Carolina and am looking forward to being at Raleigh Durham Airport to visit this aircraft. I am a Seawolf Det-9 gunner and I am sure I flew some of my combat missions in this same aircraft.
If there is anybody else out there that’s planing to be at RDU for this historic event, contact me and we’ll get together.
A special thanks to the crew of Wings and Rotors for all the time spent and hard work to make this historic event happen .
Thanks Again
Joe Versace
HA(L)3 Det-9/69-70
919-772-0807
BROTHERS FOREVER
May 16th, 2008 at 4:08 am
Hi Shayne,
Got to run with the bikers on I15 on my way to meet Mike a Daggett. Didn’t expect that, also, didn’t know I could drive 30-35 miles alongside them with a thumbs-up. It’s already worth all. Take care and be safe and fun!
Thank you,
Gary
May 16th, 2008 at 4:11 am
Shayne,
For God’s sake, have someone update the “press coverage” with John Hunnaman’s headline article in the Californian.
Thanx,
Gary
May 16th, 2008 at 5:45 am
The sound of the rotors
By JOHN HUNNEMAN - Staff Writer | Tuesday, May 13, 2008 8:06 PM PDT ∞
Post your Comments Increase Font Decrease Font email this story print this story From out of the northwest sky, growing larger and noisier as it approached French Valley Airport on Tuesday, came a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter.
A hush bordering on reverence fell over a group of veterans gathered on the runway as the chopper flew past the airport, circled back from the south and landed nearby.
Some in the crowd applauded when the skids touched the runway. But most of the veterans stood still and silent except for an occasional, “This still gives me the shivers.”
Many knew all too well the distinctive sound of the Huey’s rotors, a noise that took them back to the jungles of their youth, now nearly 40 years to the rear.
This helicopter was one of four belonging to Wings and Rotors Air Museum at French Valley that are scheduled to depart this week for Washington, D.C., in an operation dubbed Flying Thunder to the Wall.
The choppers will fly in coordination with Rolling Thunder, the annual trek of thousands of motorcycle riders from across the country that begins Wednesday and is timed to arrive at the Vietnam War Memorial —- The Wall —- in time for Memorial Day.
This year marks the first time the bikers will have air support.
“This is a great idea,” said Joy “ChapJoy” Jeanette, president of the California Chapter of Rolling Thunder. “I think you’ll see more of this in years to come.”
On board the Huey that landed Tuesday were two Congressional Medal of Honor recipients the chopper had picked up near Riverside and flown to French Valley to mark the occasion.
Vietnam veteran John Baca was a 21-year-old Army specialist on Feb. 10, 1970, when a grenade was thrown into the middle of his patrol. Baca covered the grenade with his steel helmet and then fell on top of that helmet to shield his men. His action is credited with saving eight lives.
The other hero, now 86, was retired U.S. Army Col. Lewis Millett, a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. On Feb. 7, 1951, Millett led his platoon on the largest bayonet charge since the Civil War up a hill against a North Korean stronghold.
Near the chopper, Millett and Baca shook hands with other veterans and posed for photos.
Temecula resident Roy Gleason was among those on the ground waiting for the Huey to arrive. An army sergeant wounded in action in 1968 in Vietnam, Gleason knew the sound of the Huey’s rotors all too well.
Almost every day while he was in-country, a chopper would pick up his platoon and take them into harm’s way.
“Riding in the chopper was my favorite part of being in Vietnam,” Gleason said. “Going out you were a little reluctant. You prayed all the way. But coming back you were happy. You knew you had made it one more day.”
It’s a safe bet many veterans gathered around the chopper at French Valley Airport felt the same way.
Contact columnist John Hunneman at (951) 676-4315, Ext. 2603, or hunneman@californian.com.
May 16th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Must be an awesome sight from the air to see all the ridres and just as awesome to look up and have helicopter cover–HOOYAH!!. The fruits of all your labor have come alive and you all did a great job to make May 13 the great day it was. This was the first time the Ortiz Family-family of SEAWOLF Pilot Tony Ortiz KIA- had been to a function of this caliber. Meeting new and old friends and sharing this experience just makes you stand tall and feel the goose bumps of the occasion. Have a great flight as you have our fallen SISTERS & BROTHERS as your guiding ANGELS
take care my friends Mike
May 16th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
This is simply awesome. Thanks Bill for keeping us all posted and mega thanks to the restoration team and flight crews.
See you in Leesburg on the 24th and for the Wall flyover on the 25th.
May 16th, 2008 at 5:20 pm
Shayne, did Outlaw 10 make the flight ? If so where was she last seen ? Doug Maverick 35
May 16th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Hi friends and fellow vets.
I see the note about posting articles. I would love to have you send me links to any coverage. We’ll pick the best and definitely add them to the website’s Press Area.
John Beal
for http://www.flyingthunder.org
May 16th, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Greetings from Double Eagle Airport just outside of Albuquerque. Here we are on day three with one more leg to go to our RON site of Angel Fire, NM.
Yesterday we got hammered by the winds across Arizona. Running quarter hour fuel checks were the flavor of the day but we managed to sqweak out each leg. We did find that the fuel low light illuminates early though!
The B model is running well and testing Carl and my skills! Been a long time since flying cross country (literally) with not much more than a mag compass to navigate! The welcomes have been awesome at the airports we stop at and the Veteran’s we have met even more so. These birds bring back lots of memories for lots of people, whether they be from getting a lift into battle, out of battle, being on a medivac or having one of the gunships providing close air support.
We have a great crew and team supporting us. Pat gives us moral support as he completes the H model, Shayne….were you a tech sergeant or a drill sergeant?? She keeps us in line!!!
Well, gotta get those blades turning for the flight to Angel Fire. This will be a test for the rugged old war horse and us!! Angel Fire is at an elevation of 8,382′, where B models weren’t born to go!!
See ya along the way.
May 16th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Here is a little update for all of you following the flight to the wall. Here is a link that was put in the Arizona Daily Sun (Flagstaff) when Bandit 2 Landed on Thursday. You guys are doing a GREAT JOB!
Read & View.
http://www.azdailysun.com/articles/2008/05/16/news/20080516_front_page_15.txt
May 17th, 2008 at 1:41 am
Seawolves , Our Gunship will not be making the flight to the wall, FAA shot it down today, parts of it will be used to fix an ARmy B Model to fly in its stead. but if possible John the CEO and owner from OVERSEAS AIRCRAFT SUPPLY,will if possible truck the Seawolf Gunship to DC . message from OAS Pilot Larry Clark below.
Bill, be sure to tell all the Seawolves that we sent the paperwork to
the FAA in April. They asked for more documents, which we provided in
late April. They issued us a temporary N number, and it is in the FAA
data base. Yesterday, they said everything was good, the registration
card was being scanned, so they could fax us an approval to fly with,
until the card got here on Monday. This morning, we had the door
slammed shut by the legal guys at FAA. We plan to appeal higher up
and make Seawolf 324 fly again.
Larry
May 17th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Hey Shayne;
Well, I sure wish I along for the ride or flight. It was a part of my ‘late in life’ dreams. But it seems that destiny had other plans for me. and it didn’t include riding a “VA wheelchair to The Wall.
You know, of course, that I’m there in spirit… whether in a van o stomping in the red clay with the Navajo, th First People. Or once again visiting a special name for me and my brother Vince on the Wall!
May the Gods of Winged Victory see you safely and triumphantly and always courageously to The Wall and The Wall and The Wall.
Larry Purcell
May 17th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
To all the people involved in the Run for the Wall; God bless you and keep you safe. My good friend CW5 John Harris is one of the pilots flying ” cover” for the riders. Couldn’t have picked a better pilot or man for the job. To all the aircrews- Keep them turning and burning and have a safe, enjoyable flight.
May 17th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
Happy Armed Forces Day to all, even Shayne.
May 18th, 2008 at 2:17 am
Hey all you guys&gals when do think that you might come south?
We have a SMALL WALL here in Pensacola. Enjoyed the info.
Keep up the good work… chuck, moose rider of pensacola
May 18th, 2008 at 5:12 am
My class at Liberty High School in Brentwood, Northern California is tracking your progress! We are all praying for you! My dad, Ray Reinders is on the flight. We are looking for photos or video to see your progress.
Be safe!
May 18th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Hi all of you brave and courageous soldiers in the air….I miss you Shayne and I hope you all are having a great time….where are you now on 18 May 08? I sure wish I was with you all……God bless you and fly safe. I know you are doing a lot of good for so many of our Veterans….this is a wonderful mission…..I hope the weather holds out for you all of the way……
Take care….Hi Scott…
By the way how is Carole holding up? Hi Carole……
Love from,
Marilyn
May 19th, 2008 at 12:55 am
Hi guys have ag good flight I look foreward to seeing you all in Washington d.c. I spent a lot of time in Vietnam on Bandit 2 I have a lot of photos to show you.
May 19th, 2008 at 2:58 am
hi everyone been soooooo busy. many nights going to bed at 130 am and getting up at 5 am. we are now in Clinton OK,,,sadly down for maintenance. but, the OH-58 is up and flying-after its amazing appearance in Angle Fire NM-just in time to join the huey and do a beautiful flyover of the memorial. there were 100’s of bikes and vets. the Oh-58 was in Ft Smith all weekend and tomorrow will carry the flame to memphis TN.
Angel Fire has been the most special day for us. It was a chilly day, some snow on the mountain tops. The Huey flew up with up with only the pilot and copilot because of altitude/power. It was beautiful seeing it fly over that mountain and hearing its magnificent sound fill the air. Everyone at the memorial cheered and they landed right near it. Veterans gathered as if at a huge reunion gathered, familiy members, kids of all ages climbed in the old warrior like seeing a new friend. As i said before the Kiowa flew in just in time for the 2 ship to fly their tribut to the memorial and all it stands for.
Our chief mechnic is in bound from CA first thing in the morning (monday) and will start fixing the Bandit. We hope to have her back in the air by Tuesday. Pat and crew are feverishly working as I write this to finish the medi-vac Huey in AZ. We hope they will be up tomorrow.
For now the OH-58 with pilots john Harris and Tom Woehl, with support crews Carole, Dane, Van and Ruth will continue on with our flight schedule until we can catch up.
We hope you all understand the amount of work, sacrifice and sometimes pretty stressful times we are going through (like no rooms at the Inn, sorry we messed up your reservation) to complete our mission. But also we thank the cities and the supporters who made our trip so special!
Each day is a new day and tomorrow we will wake with the the hope and confidence to continue the mission.Our thoughts are with all our friends and family as we sit here tonight in the Clinton Ramada Inn planning the next day.Thanks for all your great comments, we love you all!!!!
Shayne
May 19th, 2008 at 3:48 am
Shayne,
I want to thank you and all of the Flying Thunder staff for making a stop at the Memorial in Angel Fire. As the surviving founder of that Memorial, I appreciate the tribute you have paid to it by your visit and your kind words. I hope that it was a powerful and inspiraional visit for everyone.
Bless you for all of the good that work that you are doing. Have a safe journey to D. C. and back to Murrieta.
Walter Westphall
May 19th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Sorry to hear of the Bandit’s problems - but word is definitely out about Flying Thunder. A good friend and member of Rolling Thunder MS-1 making the cross-country run called yesterday morning to report he heard about the Bandit being down while at a truck stop in OK. Even the truckers are making CB progress reports!
Talk about great attitudes! When I spoke with Carole right after the road report, she was all positive. “This will be what it is - we’re building on next year”. How good is that?
We look forward to welcoming the Kiowa to Memphis later today and wish everyone safe flights in the continuing saga of Flight to the Wall 2008. This will be a journal worth reading someday.
Joe Kilpatrick
president
Rolling Thunder Tennessee V
May 19th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
We are looking forward to your arrival in Lebanon, TN tomorrow. There will be much celebration.
Just to be able hear the sounds of a UH-1 will be a step back into the times of a bygone era in which we all hold memories good and bad. But it also includes a unspoken comradship that is only shared by those that participated.
Am waiting with great anticipation.
Chris Horton
Tomahawk22
May 19th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Shayne and the rest of the team:
I’ll be at Leesburg on Saturday but just in case, can you post here exactly when the flight will fly over the Wall in DC? Date–time–and maybe even route of flight.
I plan on being at the Wall for that and want to tell my friends the times, etc.
Bummer about the Seawolf Gunship but Flying Thunder will still be spectacular even without it.
Best,
Al
SW-15
May 19th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Shayne,
I just wanted to thank all of you and the crew for stopping in Dalhart, Texas. It was a real privilege to have you here! Good luck on the rest of your trip and God Bless you all!
Shirley, Reporter for Dalhart Texan
May 19th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
REAL CAV Vietnam Veterans (and all military vets) - Wings and Rotors Museum has made my past year due to my involvement in obtaining support for their Flying Thunder mission to The Wall. I was blown away when I was invited to fly on the mission. The invite was a “no brainer” as I jumped on a flight to California 7 days ago. I will be flying/riding/working and whatever else is needed for the entire flight to and back from The Wall.
I feel very honored as a Retired Army Chief Warrant Officer Cobra, Scout and Huey pilot with an AMOC graduate Maintenance, it is my hope that I can contribute something to Wings and Rotors, Flying Thunder and The Wall flight.
Last Tuesday I was blown away to fly left seat on the Bandit Huey for a fly-by before we left California over a National Cemetary. After the cemetary fly-by I was confused when we landed nearby where a police cruiser with his overhead lights flashing acted as a Maltese Cross to pick-up 4 pasengers for a flight back to the French Valley Airport.
NO PROBLEM, EH! Well, two of the passengers were none other than Medal of Honor recipients Col Lewis Millet and SP4 John Baca. Suddenly I was put in a position of “Get To It or run for the treeline”. I elected to glue my behind to seat and go for it. It had been 39 years since I flew a UH1B gunship in flight school prior to a Cobra transition.
The Aircraft Commander said “You have the aircraft” after we took off. All I could think about were Caution Panel lights, all of the flight and drive train instruments, etc. I could just see me involved in a forced landing with the both of MOH recipients on-board. The flight went without a hitch but I had sweated off several pounds of weight during the short flight.
Upon shutdown, SP4 Baca handed myself and the A/C his personal Medal of Honor COIN. I did not know what to say but we hugged and called each other brother. I will cherish that flight, those moments and the MOH COIN forever.
We are down for a faulty Fuel Control right now but a replacement is on the way so we can continue our flight. I will be writing articles for the 9th Cav column in the 1st Cav Div Assoc newletters, the VHPA news letter and the 9th Cav Bullwhip Squadron newsletter after this 23 day odessy.
Will keep everyone posted as we go along this fantastic trip. Take care and keep in mind that the Wings and Rotors Museum is a Flying Museum. Donations to their efforts are always welcome.
HEADHUNTER 16, Red X-Ray and Blue X-Ray. REAL CAV!
May 19th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
Shayne and Crew - I’m so sorry to have missed your take off from French Valley - Dad wasn’t feeling too well. But I was and still am with you in spirit! Let me know if there’s anything I can do from home - you have the number.
Big hugs to you all and a sock in the arm to Steve Roberts!
:~)
Jody
May 20th, 2008 at 12:12 am
I must thank the crew for what you accomplished in Memphis today. Thank you Tom for providing a final trip for my Dad’s patches. I enjoyed talking with each of the crew and with those of Rolling Thunder. My heart goes out to each of you and for the healing you provide.
Fly High, Fly Free, Fly Proud,
Robert Meister
Son of CW2 Bernard E. Meister 334th AHC, 1969-70, 189th AHC 1967-68
May 20th, 2008 at 3:06 am
On behalf of all the aviators and crew menbers from the 1st Cav, a heart felt thanks for all your hard work from all of us who lifted off after a clear left….clear right. Especially for the aviators and crew members who didn’t make it. Gary Owen
May 20th, 2008 at 7:26 am
Greetings from a wife helping out with the ground crew in a “chase car.”
Van was a crew chief and gunner on a Huey out of Soc Trang in Feb. ‘69-’70. This trip brings our Vietnam experience full circle. Fourty years ago he left just after our wedding, and now we get to spend these next few weeks together — grateful for the healing found in meeting each of you and hearing your stories.
After six days on the road, I’m finally able to connect to the internet and check in with everyone. Every day has been very long. I’m writing this in the middle of the night, while our clothes finish up in the hotel guest laundry facility.
The overall impression is that veterans, especially those of the Vietnam era, receive validation and healing from hearing the “whop whop” of the blades and then being able to stand next to a the OH58 or the Huey. We are always amazed at the number of people who are waiting when we arrive!
Thanks to you who worked hard to get the word out for each location. The tough weather and mechanical issues made us late for a couple of the events, and we hated to disappoint the people who waited so long.
Just a few snapshots from the last six days:
Bullhead City - our first chance to talk with vets; Gene is still keeping in touch; got to see neices and nephew…and they were thrilled to be in the paper (overnight here)
Kingman - great turn out; thanks to the mayor and others for your support; winds take extra fuel, and make everything harder. (fuel)
Flagstaff - extra fuel stops made the chopper late, but people waited and cheered when it flew in. The chopper couldn’t lift off in the altitude with a full tank of fuel, so had to drop off three at Grand Canyon/Valle airport — drove back from Flagstaff to pick them up. (fuel)
Angel Fire - made me cry with grief and pride to experience the vets’ reactions to the two helicopters’ fly-by; wonderful celebration; the Westphals gave us all a place to find peace. (overnight)
Beautiful trip out of the mountains; saw elk, deer, antelope, andincredible vistas
Dalhart TX - Wow! Great turn-out. Shirley Newman…you are fantastic! Thanks for your coverage that brought out the community, and especially vets. Christine Olsen, we appreciated the food and goodies. (fuel)
Tough weather (winds) and extra fuel stops made us late for Amarillo, but still had the opportunity to meet precious people…and had a great BBQ! Thank you for your patience and gracious hospitality! (fuel)
Clinton OK — very touched by veterans from the nearby hospital; especially moved by a purple heart Marine, whose wife cried as he wept when he came near the Huey…one of those who had not yet talked about his war. Huey did not take off from here…mechanical problems. Broke the ground crew into two groups: Steve & Lyndy, Shane & Scott, and documentary photographer, Bill, stayed with Louis, Carl, and Randy supporting the Huey; Carol, Dane, Van & me, with documentary crew, Tanner, went on to support John and Tom with the OH58. (0vernight, plus repairs)
Fort Smith AR - great air show, but only had the OH58; good to be next to the Army recruiter “tent”; never get over the helicopters’ power for Vietnam Vets, and their deep appreciation when they realize we did all this work and came all this way to honor them. Great hosptiality from Sam and Jan Phillips. (overnight)
Little Rock - great response, lots of people, with press and city officials…and the people we come for — the Veterans and their families. (fuel)
Memphis — Over 250 greeted the OH58 as it landed in a city park at nearby Bartlett. Color guards and motorcycles added honor to the event. Rolling Thunder are guarding the bird overnight. A couple hundred more people came throughout the afternoon and into the evening. Heard treasured stories from veterans. One little boy, probably about 9, came with a nickle and a penny and told me, “This is all I have, but I wanted to give something. My Grandpa got hurt in Vietnam.” I assured him his contribution was very important, and would make his Grandpa very proud.
Hope to be on-line more often, and will not write a book next time. Keep praying that the helicopters will all fly over the wall. Thanks for your interest and support.
Ruth Ferry
May 20th, 2008 at 11:38 am
I served as a Gunner and Crew Chief with the 121st AHC from Feb 69 to Feb 70 onboth Slicks and Gunships.
As Ruth has so well summarized our storythus far, i wanted to letyou all know that, that in spite of all the work it took to get here, this journey to the wall in these old “birds” is something I will never forget. In Memphis yesterday to young men I talked to, revealed they lost there Dad when one was two years old and the other was seven. We shed a few tears and huged and we talked a lot about what it was like for there Dad’s being a pilot in Vietnam trying to fill in some of the “blanks” in there past. i will never forget these two Young men and the healing of all our past hurts as we fly east to D.C.
Pray for all the crews and support teams, as it is a complex, difficult and dangerous operation. This journey is so valuble to so many people.
Thanks for letting me be part of the team.
Van Ferry
Crew Chief
May 20th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Pat, Shayne and crew. We are all watching and proud of what you have done for the spirits of all the great men and women in uniform from the past and no doubt those in the future.
Keep the spirit,
Joe Donaldson
May 20th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
To Randy Zahn.
Are you still grounded or have they fixed the problem? I hope that all of you are back in the air. So far all the info above is about you being down, but nothing is being said about how the repairs are coming along. I’m sure that there are a lot of people concerned besides myself. Give us a word!
I have been reading all these comments being added to this blog and some of these stories have brought tears to my eyes. Randy, I’m very proud of you for being part of this historic event. Let’s get that Huey back in the air and get it to the Wall. Have a safe journey.
Steve
May 20th, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Any new developments regarding Seawolf 324? I am the nephew of LTjg Tony Ortiz and am trying to keep my mother up on the latest happenings regarding the Seawolf Huey. What are the possibilities of making stops on the return leg of the trip. The folks in Douglas, Arizona were really looking forward to seeing the “Bird” either make a pass or landing in memory of the fallen son/hero.
May 20th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Hello from Lynchburg Virginia. We are looking forward to your arrival on the 21st at the Lynchburg Regional Airport and getting to meet all you brave men and women that have committed to this monumental trip cross country. Our son, Chris Sugden has been your contact here with Rolling Thunder Chapter 4 Lynchburg. He has done an amazing job of organizing your arrival.
God bless you all with safety on the rest of the flight and we look forward you your arrival.
Gail Sugden
Lynchburg, Virginia
May 20th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
Great time in Memphis!
I wanted to thank everyone for such a wonderful time yesterday!
I had an amazing time talking to everyone and listening to the stories that were shared.
When first approaching the site where the helicopter landed, I felt such excitement. Since I was young, I have been in awe of military vehicles…and to see, stand beside and sit in such an amazing and historical vehicle was so special to me. The only thing better would have been to go up in that bird - and if this event happens next year I will definately have my “ticket to ride”!!! Everyone from the Flying Thunder flight crew, the support team and Rolling Thunder were so sweet. Each of us with Soldiers’ Angels had an incredible time with all of you! You made each of us think about service and patriotism. While having such excitment and awe at the landing site, I felt sadness as I drove home. I thought about sitting in that helicopter and what that vehicle must have meant to so many soldiers. I cried for the men and women who had experienced loss - for those who didn’t get to come home - and for those who came home and still live with the memories. I cried for all the soldiers who made it home, but have never been told thank you and how much they were and are appreciated. When I got home, I called my Dad who served in the Korean War as a Navy signalman - I told him that I loved him and thanked him for his strength, courage and service. I called my uncle who flew a helicopter similar to the one I sat in last night. He was shot down 3 times in Vietnam and was a POW. I didn’t talk to him directly as he suffers every day from PTSD and I was unsure how he would recieve this type of call - but told my aunt that I wanted her to somehow let him know how much I appreciated his service and what a hero he is to me. I think your trip across our great country is making people think. It is bringing both the old and young together for healing within our nation.
I have told everyone I met today about meeting all of you - how you touched the lives of others and at the same time allowed others to touch your lives. I commend you for your dedication in making this historical flight …. and for making a difference in the lives of generations past and current.
Please let the Soldiers’ Angels Memphis VA Team know if we can ever be of assistance to any of you.
Thank you for the stories, information, tshirts, poster (signed by the best flight crew ever!) and most of all the memory.
Y’all are an amazing group.
Be safe on your continued flight.
Shannon Starks
Co-Leader
Soldiers’ Angels Memphis VA Team
120 Legacy Barn Dr #102, Collierville TN 38017
901-481-3087
May 20th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
To Carole, Ruth, the flight crew that made it to N. Little Rock AR airport yesterday, and all those involved with this mission. Our sincere thanks and appreciation for all the hard work and dedication involved with this mission.
You are making a difference for many to help let many know they will “Never Be Forgotten Again” and enjoyed speaking with many yesterday. Our prayers and thoughts with you for a safe trip from here on to the Wall.
Carole will send pics to you as we get them together.
God Bless you all and anything we can help with, please let us know.
Angel HUGS from AR
Linda Spurlin-Dominik
National President/CEO - Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet
Pat Lozier
Garland County AR Community Team Leader - Soldiers’ Angels
http://www.soldiersangels.org
May 21st, 2008 at 1:49 am
Forgive me for a repost but here is the news from Memphis as you guys were leaving. This was in the paper today.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/may/20/to-the-wall/
Convoy honoring veterans along the way to Vietnam Memorial
By Shirley Downing (Contact)
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Rob Meister was 7 when his dad’s Army helicopter was shot out of a Vietnam sky.
On Monday Meister, now 45, handed two patches from his late father’s uniform to the pilot of a Vietnam-era helicopter minutes after the chopper landed in Bartlett. Meister asked the pilot to carry the badges with him to Washington. ‘”I just wanted his patches to go off on another flight,” Meister said as his voice shook, his grandson, Kris Meister, 3, at his side.
Meister and about 150 other Mid-Southerners gathered in Bartlett’s Freeman Park Monday to see a Vietnam-era helicopter land for an overnight visit. The helicopter is part of the “Flight to the Wall” convoy
traveling from California to Washington for a May 25 ceremony at the Vietnam War Memorial.
Many of the visitors wore police or military uniforms, or were members of veterans’ groups, along with their families. Rolling Thunder motorcycle riders, who are veterans, wore jeans, black T-shirts and black leather vests with military insignias to show their patriotism. Members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America were in wheelchairs.
The veterans saluted as the camouflage-colored OH58 Kiowa set down on the park grounds, its spinning blades sending particles of grass and clouds of dust flying across the park.
“I think it’s awesome,” Vietnam Army veteran Bob Harris, 61, of Memphis said of the event. Others agreed. “It’s about time Vietnam vets got a break,” said Bob Colalasure, 58, who served in the Navy in Vietnam.
“I think it’s the greatest thing to travel like this to the Wall,” said Sonny Taylor, 64, a Navy veteran.
One helicopter arrived shortly after 2:30 p.m. instead of two helicopters, as had been planned. Four refurbished helicopters owned by Wings & Rotors Air Museum in Murrieta, Calif., were scheduled to make the cross-country trip from California, but one did not gain clearance, and two ran into mechanical trouble, said pilot Tom Woehl of San Diego.
A separate convoy of Flying Thunder members on motorcycles and other vehicles are driving to Washington to participate in the ceremony.
About 30 local Rolling Thunder members at the park arrived on Harleys and Yamahas with flags tied to the handlebars. They were mostly men with gray or thinning hair and builds slightly heavier than they were in their youth. Some said they weren’t able to go on to Washington but would be there in thought.
Vietnam Army veteran Joe W. Lee, 67, yelled “Here it comes,” as he hopped off the back of a pickup and walked swiftly to the edge of the park, clapping his hands, and then raising his right arm in a salute as the helicopter landed.
As for Meister, he said he’d been planning the day for months, and was glad to be able to see his father’s badges again take flight.
“It is my personal tribute,” he said.
Shirley Downing: 901-529-2387
Here are links to two pictures with captions.
http://media.commercialappeal.com/mca/content/img/photos/2008/05/19/20chopper1.jpeg
http://media.commercialappeal.com/mca/content/img/photos/2008/05/19/20chopper2.jpeg
May 21st, 2008 at 3:06 am
Great goin’ guys!
May 21st, 2008 at 3:50 am
Dad,
I’m really proud of you! Your adrenaline must be fierce right now. Be safe and have a wonderful time. We have all of you in our prayers!
Love you, Michelle
May 21st, 2008 at 11:28 am
“You’re out of your Freakin’ mind!” (or something similar) would have been my probable response had I been told decades ago I would be putting a bedroll on the ground next to the skid of an OH-58 to spend the night as part of a volunteer security detail in Memphis, TN - and be thrilled about it!
But then, I could never imagine I’d be sharing that night with my 21 year-old son and some of the best friends I’ll ever know. I doubt any of us got more than a few minute cat naps during the night, but not a one felt the tired bones and stiff joints as we watched the Kiowa lift off on her continuing journey to The Wall Tuesday morning. Waiting together and sharing more stories while waiting to see the the Slick arrive at Noon was icing on the cake. Last night’s sleep back at home was the best I’ve had since I can remember.
To everyone at Wings and Rotors - thanks for a memory I’ll cherish forever.
Joe, Rolling Thunder Tennessee V
May 21st, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Today is May 21st….I turn 60 years old. Just a yesterday 41years ago I arrived in Vietnam. I was 18 years old. A month after my 19th birthday I was flying combat missions as a crew-chief on a UH-1C Huey Gunship. You could say my youth was stolen, but not the memories of the great soliders that I served with and the fondness that I have for the helicopter. My helicopter took care of my crew and myself, and I took care of it. Seems as if I can still hear the whine of the engine and transmission, the vibrations, sounds of the blades beating the air, smells of jet fuel, gun powder and the contnious radio chatter.
I can’t wait to be in Gaffney South Carolina with my grandson when you arrive on 27 May.
Thankyou so much for what you are doing to honor our Veterans.
We will Never Forget
Wayne W. Thompson
Company B 9th Avn Bn
9th Infantry Division
Vietnam 1967-1968
May 21st, 2008 at 11:51 pm
Hey Scottster!
How you holding up? I’m sure you are having the time of your life. Just had to add my two cents to reiterate the sentiments I shared with you before you started the flight…
I knew that you folks at “Wings and Rotors” were doing something special restoring the Vietnam era aircraft and volunteering thousands of hours of your personal time to the cause. However, “Flying Thunder” adds an entirely different dimension and level of selflessness to your organization. I applaud your efforts and know that the whole experience will be a rewarding and unique experience for the whole crew as well as the ‘Nam Vets across the country that will likely benefit from your project.
Good luck, have a great time and a safe return flight…
Respectfully,
Dan Rios
91st Evacuation Hospital
Tuy Hoa, Vienam
SEP 67- SEP 68
May 22nd, 2008 at 2:54 am
Shayne,
Thankyou to you and the crew of “The Bandit” for coming to the Clinton, Ok airport on Saturday May 17. It was an overwhelming experience to be there and watch the Huey coming in on final approach and then touchdown. It was truly an honor to meet all of you and to spend some time visiting with the crew. I was able to meet both, the dustoff and the gunship, “The Bandit” when they flew into the Weatherford, Ok (my hometown) airport to refuel after leaving the Clinton,Ok airport.
Thankyou to you and all of the crews for what you are doing. If you all come this way again I’d like to ask that you will consider coming to Weatherford, Ok as a designated stop. I hope you enjoy the magazines.
Respectfully yours,
Semper Fi,
Bob Chatigny
May 22nd, 2008 at 11:57 am
HI EVERYONE from Lynchburg VA!!
GREAT NEWS THE BANDIT IS IN THE AIR AGAIN!!!!!!
The fuel control arrived yesterday morning and by 14:00 it was flying. They are playing cath up-made it to Ft Smith AR last night will haul ass today. We hope the make it here to Virginia tonight or tomorrow morning.
Myself, Scott and Linde left Clinton the 20th in the vans, sadly (at the time) leaving Carl, Randy, Rick-mechanic extradinaire, and Frank, and Steve to work on the Bandit. WE drove 11 hours that day and 12 hours yesterday to get to Lynchburg.
WOW what an event at Lynchburg-even though we arrived late there were still lots of people, the military, veterans and bikers here. Later they treated us to a great dinner at the Golden Corral and later to bed at best Western,. Thanks a million times for your excellent support of our ever growing crew!
This morning we will lift off at 10:30 and head to leesburg. We will be staying at the Hyatt at Dulles.We hope lots of people come out to see the helicopters while we are there.
The only bad news is the secret service denied our permit to fly over the wall.-a huge dissapointment to us all, but we are re-submitting a request to fly over the Pentagon parking lot….
But our mission will continue with the thunder of our blades as we cross the US…
will post again soon as soon as I can..thanks to all of you..
Shayne
May 22nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Hey everyone on the flight crew and ground crew,
We had a great time meeting all of you yesterday and spending time with you all and eating! Bill and I and Chris and Tracie and all the Rolling Thunder group enjoyed getting to spend a little time with you at the Golden Coral. I especially enjoyed meeting and talking to Ruth and Van and Carol and Shayne. God bless you all and what you are doing. You are the greatest. It was so wonderful and inspiring to hear the rotors of that chopper take off and land. I can only imagine what that sounded like and meant to our brave soldiers on the ground wounded and waiting for their rescue!!!
We are praying for your safe trip back home and to have a great time at the Wall in DC.
Van and Ruth…I will pray for your safe return and for your Dad.
Hope to see you all next year!
Gail and Bill Sugden
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:20 pm
Dear Shayne, Scott and crew(s),
On behalf of everyone Scott left behind at the University of California, Riverside, please accept our congratulations and thanks for a job well done. You are proving that dreams can come true, not only for yourselves, but for the thousands of people with whom you have come into contact, especially our veterans to whom we owe so much.
Sorry to hear you won’t be able to fly over the wall…keep at it though as governmental minds are subject to change at the drop of a hat!
My only request is that you send Scott home soon as work is piling up!
Mike
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Dear Shayne,
Where is the static display in Washington DC. My father, (Joseph Lomonaco Bandit 2 Crew Chief 1965-1966) and I will be in Washington 5/23, 5/24 & 5/25.
Darren
May 22nd, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Guys I wanted to give you an update on the ramifications of this venture. due to the coverage in Memphis, two individuals contacted the reporter wanting to get in contact with me. The two people had been friends of my Dad when he was in the service. Now for you gun lovers here is the treat. One of them has a 1911 colt 45 which was one of the first 4000 given to the USMC. Yes folks not a copy !!!!!!!!!!!!!! The pistol had belonged to my father……I have been informed it is returning to me.
See folks, the healing and exposure is still working its magic as you guys continue to fly………….
May 22nd, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Dear Shayne and Crew, Thanks for the memories….. Chris and I had a great time sharing with you. We started the day with two Marine Cobras and a Huey. who stopped to fuel on the way to New York City for Fleet Week. Spent some time talking with the crews. We go to lunch and come back to set up for your arrival. It is 2pm and you are due in at 4. All of a sudden we hear the rotors and see 2 craft off in the distance. We are looking at one another and Chris says it is not them . It is too early. The birds circle the field and drop in. What a surprise! The weather held and all had a good time. The airport manager was blown away by the response and told us that ya’ll could come back at any time. We had great TV news coverage today and a newspaper article. We look foward to seeing you again next year. God Bless and have a safe trip home. Thanks for honoring the veterans both present and past. Bill sugden USAF ‘61-’66.
May 23rd, 2008 at 1:04 am
HELLO FROM LEESBURG VIRGINIA!!!-
We are here! was a little windy on the flight but beautiful looking down on the lush green Virginia fields and mountains.
We will be out at all three helicopters Friday doing some maintenance and all weekend they will be open for the public.
PLEASE come and visit us! We are at Leesburg airport in front of the terminal.
We will also have our coins and T-shirts available.
DARREN-THE BANDIT WILL BE LANDING IN THE AFTERNOON TOMORROW-YOU CAN CALL ME AT 951-662-5653 FOR AN UPDATE-WOULD BE GREAT FOR YOU TO VISIT AND SEE HER LAND!!!
We are still trying different ways to get approval for the flyover-we won’t give up that easy.
It is great to be here and we look forward to meeting the folks here in the DC area. We are here for you VETERANS please come and visit!
as they say here “See yaaaa’lllllll”later
Shayne
May 23rd, 2008 at 7:25 am
Dear all, I am so close to tears as I read these notes, knowing there is 1,000 times more blood sweat and tears than reads in the words. I bet few of you knew the joy of that many miles in a jet powered carriage could be so smooth and quiet. Not.
I am so proud to be associated with this group through doing the Flying Thunder website at least. As a Marine, who flew over 200 combat missions as a Huey UH1E door gunner around those vacation spots such as Khe Sahn, Lao Bao, ConThien, Hue, A Shau Valley and the DMZ, this was a dream I’d hoped for some day, but alas my work kept me on the ground this time. I can feel the vibration, smell and feel the air coming though the door, rest my hand on the M-60 mount and recall the times I climbed onto the skid so I could knock on the door of the FNG boot LT flying his first mission and watch the size of his eyes when he found a person outside at 500 feet where a human shouldn’t be.
I will not forget the boot lieutenant, on his first dark of the moon recon extract, flew us straight at a ridgeline completely lit up with tracer rounds, all coming directly at us. When (casually and politely?) he was informed our guys had ONE flasher going in ONE mortar tube, he froze… but kept trying to say he was in charge of he extraction. We came home with only 150 holes in our Huey.
For those who are flying, my gratitude, respect and prayers. For those on the ground this time who flew, fought or are recognizing friends who did and didnot come back, I salute you and send a hearty thank you and Semper Fi!
For those who get to the wall… please touch the names of Edwin Keeble
EDWIN AUGUSTUS KEEBLE JR
and DAVID JACOBSGAARD
LOST Feb 1969
shot down over Laos . They gave to the villagers, they gave to their men, they gave to their country. I wish I could meet their wives and tell them just how terrific these two men were.
Keep your mission confidence strong, your faith constant, and your duct tape and safety wire plentiful!
God bless and fly with you all!
SGT John Beal (flyingthunder.org webmaster)
VMO-6 Gunships, “Seaworthy” 1968-1969
Quang Tri Province, Khe Sahn, A Shau Valley,
Con Thien, Lao Bao, Ca Lu, the Rockpile,
the Razorbck, DMZ and beyond.
May 23rd, 2008 at 10:07 am
Shayne,
I am disappointed that you were denied permission to fly over the wall. Please keep trying. I believe that your fly over of the wall will contribute greatly to thousands of participants in this important act of rememberance. There is a facility very close to your hotel called the National Capital Region Command Center (NCRCC) that maybe able to help you. Please call them at 703 563 3222 or 3219 and ask for the Secret Service Special Agent-In-Charge and exercise your rights as a taxpayer to make him listen to your proposal. It is EXTREMELY difficult to get permission to fly into the FRZ (Flight Restricted Zone), and even more difficult to penetrate Prohibited Area P-56, but the right person maybe able to Get-R-Done for a noble cause such as yours. If I can help please send me an email. Good luck and thanks for keeping those warbirds and icons of the Vietnam war flying and alive in people’s memory. The thumping of the UH-1 penetrates the heart and soul of any sensitive person who lived through that time and is a memorial in and of itself that should continue to sound.
May 23rd, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Shayne, Thanks for the opportunity to be associated with these legendary aircraft (and crew).
Army Strong.
May 23rd, 2008 at 11:49 pm
Shayne and all the great Flying Thunder folks –
I never got a ride in a Huey my entire tour in Vietnam, as luck would have it - only fixed wings. I was in signals intelligence with the 408th Radio Research Detachment at Chu Lai, supporting the 196th LIB and Americal Division. I worked swing shift as a Radio Traffic Analyst. Our compound was directly adjacent to a 1st Cav pad and the mission liftoff every morning was our alarm clock! I still love those birds and stop dead in my tracks and crane skyward every time a Colorado National Guard ship flies over my neigborhood.
A big salute to all of you on this Memorial Day weekend. I hope the inside track to the Secret Service given above will do you some good in getting clearance for the Wall overflight. God, it would mean so much to us vets.
Dick Field
408th RR Det/Americal Radio Research Co (Prov)
Chu Lai, 67-68
P.S. If anybody needs a soundtrack from the era, surf on over to RadioVietnam.net.
May 24th, 2008 at 5:22 am
Hi Shayne, Scott and all of the crew, and van crew:
I am so happy to hear you all made it safe to Leesburg VA. I do hope you
will get permission to fly over the Wall. I pray you all have much success and please be safe….
I know this mission means so much to so many.
I hope to talk to you soon…..miss you.
Wish I was there, but I am in spirit…..Betty Dixon says hi..I sent her the blog site….
Did you hear about the Toronado? Right across from the March Museum. south of the Riverside National Cemetery. Turned over railroad cars…..
Take care all of you,
Have fun……
from Marilyn in rainy southern CA…….
May 24th, 2008 at 6:00 am
Congratulations to all of you from Wings and Rotors who have sweated and bled for the opportunity to let America see the symbol of, and for many, their salvation in the Vietnam War.
The flight to the wall is a success already, since you and those helicopters have touched the lives of many who need closure and evidence that we did the right thing in fighting the war.
Closure comes by seeing and touching the helicopters and the veterans around them at each landing point, and evidence of the approval of today’s American Citizen for America’s Veterans grows with each landing those old birds make in the presence of well-wishers. The cause was noble and the effort was honorable.
Keep pushing for the flyover. An effort must be undertaken to succeed.
Government approval (for the overflight) or not, those of you from Wings and Rotors have done America and it’s Vietnam Veterans a great service with this multi-faceted journey…..
May 25th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Shayne & Crew,
No matter what you all have done a wonderful job getting to DC. All of the comments in the blog show that people are really touched by the amazing effort you and the crew have put forth.
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You…… You have made all of us very proud and you need not be disappointed for any reason what so ever.
Like everyone says “Keep psuhing for the fly over”.
Be safe on the way back to Southern California and keep us all advised on your where abouts so that we can greet you when you land at home base.
There are many of us (Seadevils) that really thank you. Hope to see you on the MIDWAY with the new SEAWOLF HUEY!.
Have a wonderful “MEMORIAL DAY” at the “Wall” with all that came to see our “Veteran’s” presence.
Thanks again,
Phil sends from SAN DEIGO ……
May 25th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
To all of you involved with the Flight to the Wall.
Congratulations on a job well done. Still hoping that you get to make the flight over the wall.
I’m hoping that this will help to let all of our Viet Nam veterans know that “We love you” and we “Thank You” for your services. We are not all jerks in this country, but I’m sure that my brother thinks there is still one big jerk out there!
Enjoy your time of Glory, you deserve it.
It is a wonderful thing that you are doing and from the stories that I have read above it is a sight to see. Can’t wait to see the documentary of this event.
God bless you all and have a safe trip back to California.
To all men and women in the military today and yesteryear, have a
wonderful MEMORIAL DAY and Thank You again.
Steve
US Navy veteran
May 25th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
As I watch the events unfolding in Washington D.C. on Fox, I join other veterans in feeling a sense of pride as such a large motorcycle mounted flag leads the procession to the wall. As I start my 30th year as a Firefighter/Paramedic I find myself reflecting on the outstanding people I have had the priviledge to meet.
Carl, Steve, Randy and Tom did an excellent job of piloting the aircraft across our great country. Great work one and all. As a newly minted helicopter pilot I aspire to posses a fraction of thier skill and knowledge.
On this journey however, there are 7 people of whom I am truly in awe. Our Country has produced many Patriots and Heros. We, as a people are inspired by the self sacrifice of those who step out from the crowd. It is their quiet strenth and dignity that compel us to reach for our own higher purpose. It is the cornerstone of honor that they lay for the rest of us.
FRANK TRESENRIDER
VAN FERRY
RAY REINDERS
STEVE ROBERTS
RUTH FERRY & LYNDE ROBERTS
As a veteran of Army Aviation I realize that the helicopter has become a symbol of the struggles and hardships of our wars. They rode brave young souls into battle and rescued those who had fallen. The sound is like no other. The meaning so personal and private. They endure.
These people endure as well. The very core of Flying Thunder is dedicated to our Combat Veterans. The emotions of the aircraft flying in, the memories brought forward by the sound. The eyes thankfully covered by dark glasses.
It is the superlative behind the scenes work of 4 Viet Nam Combat Vets that inspires me. FRANK who remains these helicopters most ardent supporter. Who is pictured on the W&R website as he installs the main rotor on the Bandit. Who stayed behind as others flew to accomplish the mission yet never had the chance to fly on this event himself. VAN who humbles us by his personal sacrifices and donations. A man that is a pillar of virture and kindness. RAY who must truly be the Hero of the Seawolves for his dilligent efforts and personal contributions and is still every inch the Marine. STEVE whose willingness to work in even the most mundane tasks as he keeps such a great attitude. It is his laughter echoing thru the hanger that is one of my favorite memories of W&R.
Make no mistake, each and every one is a giant of a man. These four have witnessed first-hand the horrors of war. Yet they continue to embody the kind of spirit and virtue that brings healing and closure to their comrades in arms.
RUTH and LYNDIE, and Mrs. Ray wherever you are. You walk with the angels as you support and care for our warriors. As you read the messages above you come to appriciate how much this flight has meant to countless others. This spirit also resides in you. To this day you continue to heal the wounds of war. For this you are truly blessed.
There are times when you find yourself in the presence of greatness. Many is the hour I spent in the hanger with these men. I am awed when I reflect on the road they have traveled to be there. I am humbled when I consider that they can find room in their heart to call me friend.
Sadly there are those in our society who step up quickly to grab an honor that might not be theirs. Who may perhaps represent themselves as something they are not. Or maybe they subvert rewards and monies intended for heroes and giants. This is not their day.
This is a day when greatness walks.
May 25th, 2008 at 8:18 pm
This is what I posted to our Huey web site last night. I was going to write another one for the blog but then, when I read it again, it fits here perfectly. The note starts below. God Bless Pat and the entire Crew for all the hard work, sweat, blood and money out of your own pockets to make this happen!
Well the saga of Pat and crew flying to the Wall in DC to honor ALL Veterans, from ALL Wars has, so far, been very, very interesting indeed!! They started with five birds, one “H” model Slick, three “B” models, (two Gunships, one Navy, one Army & one Dust-Off) and one OH-58 Scout Bird. Thanks to our wonderful FAA Legal department the Seawolf “B” model Gunship can’t fly to honor those brave Navy Heros that fought their battles down and dirty in the mud and slime of their AO. The Helicopter flies just fine, the only thing that kept it from making the trip to Honor these Brave Men and Women on the Wall is a slip of paper that the FAA Legal Department didn’t like???? Now if that’s not a crock of the biggest load of BS I have ever seen in my life then I don’t know what is! Yes Sir Ladies and Gentlemen, we’re from the government and we’re here to help you, HAH!
The “H” model just ran out of time. Before they could get it
finished and ready to fly they had to stop and play catch up with the rest of the flight or they would have missed out on Mondays events and they couldn’t do that! I have a feeling that after Pat and the gang get back and rest up for a while the “H” model will be strutting her stuff right up there with the best of them. They almost made it but, at the end, Pat had to call it and since the load is on him I have to agree that he did the correct and safe thing. I know how hard that call was to make but it was the right thing to do.
Now for the Wall and the “no fly zone”. They had permission to fly over but not land???? Why not? Is an “armed Huey” a scarey sight to the paper pushers up there in DC even if the “guns” and “rockets” are replicas and cannot be made to fire in any way by anybody. The Secret Service is going to check them out anyway, EVEN THOUGH THEY WON’T LET THEM DO THE FLY OVER OR LAND THEY ARE STILL GOING TO CHECK
THEM OUT! Don’t worry, the Secret Service came through and
cancelled even that, NO FLY OVER EITHER!!!! Man, ya just never know when those replica guns and rocket pods might turn into the real thing and blast someone all to hell and back! That part of this makes me want to puke! Can’t you see what an impressive and wonderful sight that would be? One Huey landing then coming to a three foot hover, tilting the nose down in a salute to our fallen Men and Women, then pedal turning and joining the flight in a “missing man” formation as they left for their next stop???? Yeah, I can see the danger that the Secret Service sees with that one………….Right!
Then we have the most wonderful Smithsonian Museum say in writting that they could land on their LZ and stay for the entire time they would be in DC. WAIT, ONLY JOKING!! We can’t let these type of people spend any time on our property. We have an image to uphold ya know…….. …
Man I’ve come across some real idiots during the 32 plus years that I have worked on and flown all types of aircraft but damn if the pencil necked Geeks in DC make them ALL look like bums that don’t even know how to read and write!! Pat, Shayne, John, Roxy, (sorry for all you guys and gals that I left out) and the rest of the Crew from California are doing this on their own time, with Pat’s Museums own Helicopters, a lot of their own money and they can’t even fly a “missing man formation” over the Wall to Honor those Brave young Men and Ladies and what they did for their country. Things like this make me sad, very sad, to see the way that Vietnam Veterans are still being treated after 40 or more years. Yes Sir, spit on when we came home, signs saying they are glad that the person being buried is dead, Jane Fonda making jokes while being illegally in North Vietnam, sitting on an anti-aircraft battery, laughing at the smoking wreakage of a shot down B-52 bomber, turning in slips of paper passed to her by the Hanoi Hilton prisoners who had written their SSANs so that she could let their families know that they were still alive, after the cameras were turned off she gave these notes to the NVA Camp Commander!!! ! This caused a couple of prisoners to be beaten to death and many more to be injured for life…….. .and for what???? So that these fine people can’t even land or do a fly over to Honor these Heros of our time???? What exactly is this world coming to???? If anyone out there knows PLEASE tell me what it is!! As far as I’m concerned it SUCKS…………….
The people in “charge” of our country have passed up something that would have gone a long way to repairing the evil that was done to ALL Korean and Vietnam Veterans when they arrived home. We did the same things that our WWII and WWI Veterans did and they came home to parades, not spit! I can’t believe that the politicians would miss an oppertunity for a massive photo op and a hell of a lot of sound bites by once again ignoring our fallen Heros. What a shame for them, what an insult for us!
Ed Kirkley
RVN 68-70
US Army SSG E-6
May 25th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
Ed Kirkley: Hear Hear!! Well said.
May 26th, 2008 at 12:44 am
Hello all from Washington DC. We made it for sure. The last 3 days have allowed us to catch our breath, do some scheduled maintenance and reflect on the past journey we have made. We had our bumps in the road but we are here! Sadly we were denied the approval to fly over the wall, but our mission continues to honor our veterans. maybe next time.
Friday night we visited the wall, the first time for many of us. It was a beautiful evening and light glowed from the surrounding memorials. I was taken back by the wall as it sank into the ground, starting at just a few inches high then coming to a point that seemed to tower over me like a forest. The thousands of names were overwhelming. It was quiet, sacred ground and I was truly humbled by its powerful message. Human sacrifice like no other. Its hard to explain,, but I felt small, that anything that bothered me truly went away and was meaningless. I was for moment with them and the families of all those brave names, and was proud of them all. I wondered if what we were attempting really made any difference, and then I thought of the thousands of veterans who still walk this earth and have seen us and talked to us, made me realize it was really
important. I and all of us on the flight have so much dreamed of flying over that wall showing our tribute to them and everyone on the ground.
Maybe next time.
Everyone on this event, EVERYONE has put in hundreds of hours in volunteer time to make this event happen. Our brave and extremely skilled pilots led by PAT RODGERS, CARL ALLEN, RANDY ZAHN, LARRY CLARK, TOM WOEHL, JOHN HARRIS,-(no pilot named Steve) have navigated the deserts, mountains, fields of Oklahoma, through winds and rain to get us all here SAFELY. And I KNOW they will get us all home safe as well.
Our other aircrew members, Steve, Scott, Ray, Van, and myself also have given our all to make this a special event, working together as a team. Rick Rybarcyk a retired Marine and A&P mechainic worked feverishly to get out H model flying, knowing all along every day was another day he could not be with the rest of us on the trip, yet never a complaint. he finally joined us in Oklahoma after repairing the Bandit and then was able to finally fly. He made it here to DC but now has to fly home to go back to work. Van and Ruth and Frank-we are sorry to see you leave for a family emergency-our prayers are with you and you will be missed. Linde, Carole and Dianna have worked so hard as support crew, driving, getting rooms etc..every person here is a key player. Roxane and Pat-just coming on board I know will do the same,,and we won’t forget Kid Dane-a tireless hard worker who is always happy, always helps”and by the way is also a pilot! what a whipper snapper-we are proud to have him along!
make no mistake-we are all heroes to eachother and tomorrow we will had out to Raleigh on our return home, with our heads held high for what we have accomplished so far. So good night our friends, soon the green fields of Virginia will hear the wop wop sounds of rotor baldes in the morning as we head south–
over and out-talk to ya later.
me
May 26th, 2008 at 2:57 am
I wanted to correct a couple of things that I said in my blog. 1st of all it’s been 39 years since I started my Aviation Adventure. It was 1969 when I came back for my 2nd tour of Vietnam. I reported in to the head clerk An Khe, found out who’s hands needed greasing to get new gear & a good Hootch, both were VERY important, believe me!! I found out that I was attached to the last 1st Cav Aviation Group to leave. We were there a few months before we went to Rocket City, let’s see who remembers that one & what it was really named?? When we finally got An Khe turned over to the 4th Infantry Division I was sorry to go! An Khe was a great base, (as long as you didn’t get guard duty at tower 6 I think it was, right up on the main trail to Hong Kong Mountain), ask someone else who’s been there and they will fill you in. I know, I know, I spelled Hong Kong wrong but that’s the way we both said it and called it & I can’t see changing now!
2nd mistake was to not put all of the names of the hard working people in my attempt at my 1st blog. The only reason was that I didn’t know who was and who wasn’t coming. I meant no offense to anyone that is with Pat & Shayne & the rest of the crew on this most wonderful trip, none at all. If I had a list of who’s on the trip I would gladly list them ALL because they ALL deserve to be mentioned, hell, they deserve a lot more than that and I wish I could give it to them. The money, blood, sweat and tears came from ALL of them! I just wish that my old back would have let me make the trip with them, then you would have seen some tears behind the sunglasses & the visor!!
Sorry that I missed someone, again, no offense meant!! I will do better the next time, that is a promise!!!!
Ed in SC, Primary MOS 11B4P, Secondary MOS 67N4P (I liked the 2nd one a lot better, so did my feet)!!
RVN 68-70, thinking about going back and saying hi to the places that I saw as a Boy that VERY soon made me a Man!!
God Bless you all and keep you safe!
Raider 22 out here!
May 26th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Hello to all especially Frank Tressenrider from the 17th AHC
I will be at WALL SOUTH today in pensicola florida to honor the crew of
66-16209 lost 4/21/1968 near the ashaw valley.
I wish the flight could have included WALL SOUTH as one of the stops
I am sure your group would have been welcomed there with real southern
hospetality not red tape and bull shit
Mark Jamerson the son of Larry Jamerson (father) lost on 16209 may meet
the crew in south carolina at your stop there please tell him I said hello
CW Jackson
CE 209
May 26th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Shayne and the rest of the crew from Wings and Rotors Air Museum. I know how disappointed you were not being able to fly over D.C. and honor all of the veterans with the wonderfull work you did restoring the aircraft. I hope as you continue with your flight you will take with you what a great service you have done for one Vietnam Veteran and his family.
When my father left Vietnam in 1966, left his friends, left the 118th, and left Bandit 2 on the airfield, he said good bye and never spoke of it agian. As the oldest of five children and a former Army member I could see he was holding a part of his life inside that he should have been proud of and thanked for every day however when he returned and reentered society he was made to hide his service and not speek of it.
My father has no real friends who served in Vietnam nor does he belong to any veterans groupes. He has never been able to talk to other people who sharred his expearances has never been welcomed by his comrads and never thanked for his service to his country.
That all changed for him on 5/23/08. When we walked no to the flight line in Leesburg he met people who did what he did when they were 19, who left behind what he left behind and once shared the pain he has held inside for 42 years.
When your crew members began to speak with him and asked him to share his expearances they were letting him know it was OK. He was back with friends and brothers he did not even know he had.
When Bandit 2, the same aircraft on which he spent a year of his life maintaining, cleaning, caring for and fighting from, came over the tree tops and landed infront of him with you guys putting your hands on his shoulders and patting him on the back and letting him know that what he did 42 years ago was something to be honored and proud of was beautyfull.
I have never seen my father treated with such respect and the look on his face when he was reunited with his old aircraft brougfht tears to my eyes.
Thank you all for what you have done for all veterans and words can not describe the thanks me and my family have for what you have done. Thank You for welcoming my father home.
Thank You,
Darren J. Lomonaco
May 26th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
Thanks a lot Jody Gomez for the pat on the back!! It sure was appreciated. BTW, did you have a Brother named Carlos? He was my Door Gunner and a fine one too until he caught a .51 in the wrong place. It happened just outside of LZ Buttons in mid 69, sorry, can’t remember the date. As for my writting, I just try my best to call them as I see them and for the Navy to get screwed by one piece of paper that some pencil necked geek in Ok City just does not do them justice!! I only wish that the guys & gals flying the Thunder route could have had some push somewhere with the Feds. They have been getting screwed around on this for many months and the outcome was not even close to being fair, not even close!! I wish I knew who to write to make the right kind of noise so this doesn’t happen again, EVER!!
As for the fly over of the Wall, G.W. even stated that it would be a fine sight to see them doing the fly over on the TV News last night! Guess no one told him that his wonderful Secret Service pulled the plug on that too.
My Brother was Navy, one of those “cool, ray ban wearing, Fighter Pilots”, my Father was a Marine, joined when he was 15, went through WWII where he was “Mustanged” into a Butter Bar because there were only TWO men left out of his Platoon, then he did Korea & 2 or 3 tours in Vietnam for a total of over 30 years in The Corps. I was Army with 2 tours in Vietnam so you can imagine what our family reunions were like!! We used to let Dad get “into his cups” of Jack Daniels & start in on Chesty Puller, what branch of Service was on both his paycheck & ID card, and the show was on!! He couldn’t run thank God but he could throw stuff & he was fairly good at it too!! Many a time I wished that I had kept my big mouth shut when Mom or my Wife was repairing a split lip or something along those lines. It was all in fun though, we were still family ater the bombs stopped falling.
Take Care & God Bless EVERYONE involved in this wonderful trip!
Ed
May 26th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
Shayne
Terry Mann here from AL just want to say congratulations on making it to DC We are all here pulling for you and can’t wait to see the fly in at Pell City an update we are still stealing and plucking chickens but don’t worry we will at least have a cold beer and a hot grill waiting for you when you get here as of now we are expecting a good turn out and we are getting great support this is great thing you are doing our prayers are with you
Terry Mann
May 27th, 2008 at 12:33 am
Hello from Raleigh NC! We left this morning and headed to our first fuel stop in Richmond VA. What a great place. We were welcomed by a small but friendly crowdwho enjoyed the Hueys. Then Nancy-the great FBO manager took us upstairs and fed a great lunch! BBQ, all the fixins, ice tea and to top it off peach cobbler with ice cream!! Thanks so much for feeding us hungry crew dogs!! Your generosity will not be forgotten.
Tomorrow we head to Gaffney SC for a planned event there that we are sure will be fun and have lots of veterans. Thanks to you all for the great posts! We will press on tomorrow!!
Shayne and the crew
May 27th, 2008 at 12:39 am
To Darren, thank you for your wonderful thoughts, it brought tears to my eyes. It is truly days like this with your dad that makes what we do worth all the work and long hours. It fuels us to continue our mission to do the same for other veterans..we are so happy he enjoyed the time with us. Today I opened that nose door and saw his signature on it,,know that we will always preserve it as it is now and always will be part of Bandit 2..
take care
Shayne and the crew
May 27th, 2008 at 5:18 am
Shayne and crew, I am very touched by all of the messages and the great mission you are on. You truly have touched many lives and probably saved many sad veteran’s souls. There is no greater calling than giving to others.
Thank you all, and Please be safe on your journey home. This proves there are many good souls out there in our great country. They all need to be heard…..enjoy meeting more great veterans and good people out there helping you along the way…..
Thinking of all of you,
Take good care,
from, Marilyn
May 27th, 2008 at 10:38 am
On the Way to Gaffney this morning with my two grand sons. I can’t wait to hear the Hueys as the approach the LZ. I hope tol have the opportunity to see, hear, and feel these aircraft, talk the aircrew, and other Veterans that will attend. It will be a great history lesson for these young men too. But most of all I want to honor those Veterans that made the ultimate sacrafice for this great country. Take care guys and have a safe flight. You are doing a wonderful Job and we thank you so much.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Flipper
May 27th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
Shayne: by now you are heading back to CA. Like all reunions, the depression sets in but the great memories will kick in. Really sorry that you were denied permission for the fly-over The Wall. My father was responsible for getting the first two names on the Wall–Major Buis & Sgt Ovenard who were killed under his command July, 1959, when we lived in Saigon. I know that two other Infantrymen’s families appreciate all your efforts. They were hit in 1967 as I failed to bring them home. This Memorial Day I spent with my family and grandchildren. I know the latter will thank you when they are old engough to understand. See you when you return. Best, Nat Ward, Lt. “D” Co, 2/8 Cav, First Cav Div. 1967 PS: I will deliver the Cav shield to March Museum after you get back.
May 28th, 2008 at 1:47 am
Shayne and crew from Wings and Rotors:
I would like to personally thank everyone of you for what you have done for my dad. Like my brother Darren said, my dad never really spoke of the war except for some bits and pieces here and there when I saw a picture of something, but the subject was changed quickly. Everything was packed away such as pictures, clothing, memories, etc. Until I walked into the airport with my dad I never in 18 years saw that type of look on his face. He was finally proud to talk about it and explain what happened. Most importantly, he was respected, acknowledged, and admired for something so important, yet unspoken of.
I was not there to see Bandit 2 land, but from the videotapes I know it meant more than it may have seemed. The fact that he was patted on the back and recognized after 42 years, from what I can see, is an undescribable feeling for him. Also, I was grateful that because of people like you, this weekend was possible.. It was a learning expeirence for myself, and an all together amazing expeirence for my family, especially my dad.
All in all, thank for every minute of hard work and dedication put into restoring Bandit 2- it means more than you know.
Thank you so much again and God Bless,
Olivia Lomonaco
May 28th, 2008 at 2:39 am
Hey all you Wings and Rotors alum,
Sorry to have bailed on you Monday but some of us still have to work for a living!!! Words escape me when I try to express how much it meant to be a part of Flying Thunder. For two weeks I was 20 years old again and flying the B model was a thrill, well….except for the malfunctioning FCU!
Carl, you were an awesome stick buddy and now a good friend. Tom, thanks for sending me to the moon all those years ago. Rocket…Big Red One and Charlie Troop flew again!!
Shayne, Pat, Scott, Rick, Carol, et al…thanks so much for being such great team members. Your efforts made it all possible.
I am still baffled that with our collective 200+ years of military service our government deamed us a security risk!!! Go figure.
You guys have a safe trip home and stay in touch. When Flying Thunder 2 gets planned….include me.
You guys are awesome,
Randy
May 28th, 2008 at 4:25 am
Shayne,
Great job!!!!! guys.
In my youth it was bubble gum and bailing wire, I guess today it’s duck tape and the same wire.
Best Regards,
Gary
May 28th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Good morning everyone..here we are in Gaffney SC,,muggy as hell. We left Raleigh and the helo’s first landed in Gastonia for fuel. Gaffney was amazing. They landed in the parking lot near the Police station, one at a time they approached and landed perfectly. We had a leats 500 people come out and swarm us all afternoon. The city had a nice presentation with ROTC color guard and all. They finished it off with taps. The people here are so nice and we were treated like kings. Later we had a BBQ next to a historic cabin. A little rain came but the rotor blades all needed a wash anyway.
Today we are off to Georgia and Birmingham. may have a little weather on the way,,,thanks for all the great posts, will chat with you later..
Shayne and the crew!!
May 28th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Sorry I had to come back to California early. Despite the rough start we seemed to have pulled off the impossible by making to Virginia. The list seems endless of all the people to thank. But special thanks to ALL the great people at Wings and Rotors for allowing me to participate. Be safe. God Speed.
Rick
May 28th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Shayne and Pat:
God bless you and the entire gang for what you have accomplished. Like all the others who visited you in Leesburg I was amazed at how great all the helos were. i think it was Ron or Frank who thought that they were too clean — and that maybe they should be dirtied up some so they would look like they did 35 years ago.
When all the dust settles from 2008 and you start thinking about 2009 and the flight over/to the Wall, please send a mass email to us so we can contact the right people and add our voices to yours. Rolling Thunder was fine but a flyover by the helos would have been so wonderful, so powerful, and such a media event, that the memory of it would have lasted a lifetime.
Best to you ALL
Al Mears
SW-15
May 28th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
Hi Everyone in the Crew! It had been many years since I actually flew a Huey but when Pat said, “the helicopter is yours” I started remembering things really, really, fast!! It was a wonderful feeling being back at the controls of one of those most wonderful birds. My emontions ran the gambit from WOW to, am I really here, flying again, or is it a dream? Pat is one of the very best sticks that I have ever flown with, BAR NONE and I’ve flown with some damn fine ones since I started in 1969 in An Khe, Vietnam, Republic of, to paraphrase a line from a movie. The ground crew was AWSOME!! The first thing I got when we landed was a big, hard hug from Shayne!! I was looking forward to meeting her in the flesh even though it seems that we’ve known each other for years! I only wish that I had her painter’s talent, at least as much as she has in one finger! That Lady knows how to paint. Scott, her husband, is a great guy, quiet but still a great guy that I like a lot. Roxy & her future husband were great, heck, EVERYONE in that crew, both air and ground are GREAT people that used their tears, blood, guts and money to do this for ALL Veterans and they deserve ALL the credit for a job VERY WELL DONE!!!! I salute you all & can’t wait to get to California to meet the rest of the Guys and Gals that had to leave at DC and go back to work. I had a fellow 1/9th WO3 fly as my Crew Chief and Pat had Scott as his. They both did a wonderful job of making sure we were fastened in correctly, that the doors were secure and the blades were clear. I wouldn’t mind a bit going into battle with either one of them on the guns and Pat as the “Principle Pilot”! As I said before, he is a fine stick for sure. I hate to say that I am terrible at remembering names but I consider talking with my WO3 all about the 1st Cav and who we knew and who we missed and who got killed that should have been home and here with us. It was GREAT talking with him and with all the Crew.
Everyone that has called & emailed me all day talking about the helicopters and how great they and the crews were made me proud to be a “member” of that crew for two days, VERY proud indeed!! I would fly anywhere with these guys and gals and not worry a minute about doing it either! With Roxy as the A&P checking every Copter over to make sure they were ready to go, the Pilots and Crew Chiefs doing their checks, I felt as safe as a babe in his Mother’s arms. My wife Michele re-enacts as an Army Nurse when ever we go to any Vietnam event and she makes a pretty good one. We still have to work on her salute but she is getting there. A lot of people stopped to speak to her and ask for her autograph even though she made sure that they knew she was not a real Vietnam Nurse, she was just there to honor them, they still wanted her to sign their posters! I signed so many posters that my right hand is still sore! What a day! Having that happen to me made me feel that finally, after all the years have passed, I was welcomed home. That’s a feeling that can’t be explained, you had to have been there to know what I mean.
One thing to ALL Veterans, last year Congress & the Senate, in a move that surprised me, (doing something that made sense), passed a law that states that ALL Veterans, in or out of uniform, may salute the Flag when it passes or when a salute would be required if you were in uniform. This lets people know that you are a Veteran. I saw a few do so but a lot of people haven’t gotten the word yet so we need to pass it around. I will do so today on our web site & I hope that all reading this will pass it along too.
Very Best Regards,
God Bless the Crew
Ed & Michele in SC
May 29th, 2008 at 2:10 am
I think it’s wonderful the joy you have brought to my grandpa, Jerome Montoya. I would like to make an appreciative shout out on youtube and maybe a few pictures, but i don’t have all the names of the people that flew and participated. If you would please either e-mail them to me or respond it would help a lot. (LilMermiad2010@yahoo.com)
May 29th, 2008 at 2:40 am
Ed and All, I was your CWO3, Apache and ElLobo 16, 9th Cav CE and it was a pleasure flting along with you. I have pretty much stayed out of the limelight since I still work for DoD. The Army Recruiting Command has helped a great deal with this flight by their support to Wings and Rotor - The ARMY CAN DO is still very much alive and we carry their markings on our support vehicles and the aircraft.
Was myself disappointed when we did not receive TSA clearence to perform the fly-by over OUR Wall Memorial but can understand their opinion. The only thing I was a little miffed at was their reason for the denial; SECURITY RISK! The Wall is for everyone; especially for those of us that came home wounded and disabled. A flight of three Vietnam war birds carrying decorated Vietnam veterans that are on both sides of the age 60 group do not constitute a Security Risk.
We felt the deepest honor and respect that could be shown to OUR WALL was to fly over The Wall and let so many people that were there to once again hear and feel the Thunder of the Huey and Kiowa rotor blades that would be followed by the smell of burning jet fuel.
For me personally, the TSA response was in poor taste as it was, and still is, an agency that is protected by the very names on The Wall and the living that are still fighting other peoples wars.
22 names on The Wall were my friends 28 years ago. I wish I could have flown over those names in their honor as they were all 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) crew members and pilots. The best of the best when it came to being called “Gods Own Lunatics”.
WE CAN, WE WILL
Headhunter and ElLobo 16, Red X-Ray and Blue Lift X-Ray
War Zone C & D, III Corps and Cambodia 1970-71
May 29th, 2008 at 4:56 am
Thank you from Alabama
I post a few things on here for my dad Terry Mann SeaWolf. Usually he comes over to my house and tells me what he wants to say and I type it up not that he can’t but he chooses not to. But tonight at this late hour these are my own words from the son a Navy SeaWolf Vietnam Veteran. He found out about the flight to the wall on line which to be honest scares me because he was online looking and asked if I would help him support well try to host a proper Alabama welcome. Like so many I have read about on here my dad has spoken very little in my 30 + years about his Vietnam days. But with the thought of seeing a Huey in action again and maybe just maybe getting to see one he actually worked on 37 years ago he really opened up. He has always been proud of his service but only spoke of it around close family and friends but with this he really opened up to anyone who would listen and some who didn’t he didn’t care he had a story to tell. I still can’t believe we got him on a live radio broadcast to promote the landing and let me say he did great. At this point I need to say thank you to Pell City Alabama, you really made today great for all the crew and the veterans. And now how do I say thank you to Flying Thunder. The few short hours we got to spend with you created memories and friendships that will last a life time. Thank you just is not enough what you are doing for the Vietnam veterans is great. Of all the wars Vietnam is the one where our heroes came home with there head down to a country that would not accept them, but today I saw their heads held high and I am sure this is the same with every stop you make. To all the crew of Flying Thunder you created some great memories today, thank you thank you
James Mann
Terry Mann Navy SeaWolf
May 29th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Hi,
I’m part of the ground crew for Flying Thunder and would like to share some of my pictures. I have them posted on http://www.Flickr.com. Search Tags for Flying Thunder. The first picture is a night shot of the Wall. If you select more pictures by Roblynbxrs you can see the first leg of our flight. Please and your comments, names if you recognise yourself as I didn’t always get names. Thank you all for the wonderful response.
May 29th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
At the bottom of the page click on #3–then look to view as slide show–Lynde–WOW is an understatement. Being at the dedication on May 13 in Murrietta and following the blog several times a day has been great–but to see the pictures again re-kindled that warm feeling seeing all that welcomed you along the way. To see the bikes you can almost hear the wop-wop of the blades. The inflight pictures of the Helos brings back some glorious memories. Thank you all and have a safe flight home.
Mike Worthington
SEAWOLVES of HA(L)3
May 29th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
To Pat Rodgers and Shayne Meter,
Many children and many adults (especially veterans), will always remember the day “Flying Thunder” came to Gaffney, South Carolina. The awe-inspiring sight of those Huey’s coming in for a landing was spectacular, and for many of us (veterans and their families), especially those Viet Nam veterans (Ronnie and Robert ) who, along with others, made the flight from Gastonia to Gaffney, it was the homecoming they never received at the end of the war. My thanks to Wings and Rotors and the entire crew, the City of Gaffney, South Carolina, and to James Smith and the Cherokee County Veterans Museum for giving our residents, and especially our veterans, our military personnel and their families, this special day. My heart literally stopped and tears came to my eyes with the beauty of those Hueys in flight, and the thought of what this means to the people of Gaffney. I felt the tears come again as “Flying Thunder left for Spartanburg on the morning of May 28, 2008, and watched as residents waved long after the helicopters were out of sight.
PFT, wife of Robert, handler of Nemo, Viet Nam, 1966
May 29th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
Hey Rocket,
Sorry that I am so bad with names! I can say that you were the best Crew Chief that I ever had!!
It was a heck of a lot of fun talking to you about the 1st of the 9th and the people that we both knew there & those that made it only to be killed in a Huey with fixed floats, (Norm Coons, one of the best sticks that I ever flew with & a great singer to boot)! He was almost back to the airport too damnit! I was so happy to see you & I tried my best to get up & see you off but the back wouldn’t let me. I was jammed up until 1500 or so & couldn’t really move. I wanted to give you a hug first & a salute second so I owe you both. Getting to fly again was fun & I think that after 23 or so years I did OK. Please email me at draider6@yahoo.com & lets keep in touch. Have you heard from Jerry, I am the MAN, Boyle lately? I’ve tried him a few times but no joy. I want to see when Apache Sunset is coming out or if it already has. Apache Sunrise was a GREAT book & I’m glad that I read it.
I will be most proud to fly 2nd stick to you or any of the A/Cs anytime at all, just give me a call & I’m on the way! There were a bunch of GREAT Pilots there that day & I tried to sit as tall as possible & not let you down with my stick time. I counted 30 mics flight time all total but it felt like 15 seconds it was over so fast!! I had the stick from Gastonia to Gaffney & I can’t remember how many hours I got stick time in Vietnam? I had a 1LT that liked to shoot so I got to learn to fly, great trade for me. The mountains around An Khe were beautiful except for the tracers coming up at us!!!! Heck as a Snake Driver you never saw any of that did ya?? :-)~
Welcome home Sir! Welcome home to all in the crew & all of those on the ground that this trip was about. You Guys & Gals from Wings & Rotors are the best! Pat & Smitty here in Gaffney & Blacksburg did all the work & deserve all the kudos. The Gaffney City Council did a great job of backing us too. I just wish that I could have done more but next time I will do better & will remember my special chair so my durn back doesn’t go out.
BTW, I have a CD of Norm’s songs that his sister Myra sent me. If you’d like a copy just send your address & it will be on the way.
VERY Best Regards to you all & May God Bless,
Ed & Michele in SC
May 29th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Does anyone know which airport in Phoenix that the flight will be using? I really can’t wait to see you guys.
May 29th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Here it is. Two days since I’ve flown with you guys and am missing every second. I never expected to see the comraderie that I experienced back in the “old days”. Things were great. Thanks to all of you for making this a true heartwarming experience. As usual, us pilots were the prima donnas and watched all of the others work. The people driving the support vehicles and coordinating the support logistics deserve an extra pat on the back. See you back in Murrieta. Most importantly, be safe. Thanks for the great memories.
Randy - You passed the checkride
Carl
May 30th, 2008 at 7:54 am
Seawolf Gunship to fly, Through the efforts of many including OVERSEAS AIRCRAFT SUPPLY and WINGS/ROTORS MUSEUM and i am sure others. I was notified by Pilots Pat Rodgers and Larry Clark the FAA has Registered the SEAWOLF TO FLY AGAIN. thanks to all involved. Maybe Next time it will be on the Fly to the Wall.Thanks to all that helped and to all those Vets , and Families that met the birds at each Stop. YOU DID GOOD . SEAWOLF Bill Rutledge
May 30th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Gret to see you at Leesburg and what a treat to see Frank again after almost 40 years. Hueys looked great and I can appreciate the amount of work and time that went into having them flyable again and the trip to Va and back. Wish i could have been on board. Really a bummer about not being able to fly over the WALL. Politicians, they will be the end of this country unless people vote them out.
Thanks again.