VP-5 Squadron Shipmates
http://www.vpnavy.org
VPNAVY Address

ShipmateVP-47 ShipmatesShipmate

ALLEN, AO2 Gary J. gman12647@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1967-1970) and flew with Crew-3..." [24SEP2014]

ALLEN, Joe W. jallen78@bellsouth.net "...I began my Naval career in June, 1955. My first VP tour was with VP-31 San Diego, CA as a student Radioman in the P5M Marlin. Next came VP-47, NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. We made a deployment to NS Sangley Point, Philippines 1964 - 1965. This was truly an exciting tour. Remember Marie "T"s, Sonny's and San Miguel beer. I was sidetracked for 1965-1968 by Instructor Duty with NAMTRAGRU Det 1015 NAS Lemoore, California. I was one of the original new rate "AW"s changing from ATC to AWC in 1968. Soon after I received orders to VP-19 NAS Moffett Field, California. This was the beginning of a very colorful and rewarding career. I served in VP-19 from 1968-1975 with deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska; NAS Iwakuni, Japan; NAS Cubi Point, Philippines; Naha, Okinawa; NAS Cubi Point, Philippines again with detachments to NSF Diego Garcia and Utapao, Thailand. VP-30 NAS Jacksonville, Florida 1975-1978; VP-8 NAS Brunswick, Maine 1978-1981; FASOTRAGRULANT Det. NAS Brunswick, Maine 1981-1984, rounded out my Navy career. I retired in 1984 and returned to my home state of LA. Great career, too many unforgetable Shipmates to mention and a lifetime of great memories I wouldn't trade for anything..." [12JAN2000]

ANDARA, ILEANA la_sillyilly@hotmail.com "...HI GUYS. I WAS AT NAS Moffett Field, California IN VP-47 AND THEN THEY DID A HOME PORT CHANGE TO NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. NOW I AM IN VQ-2 NS Rota, Spain. ENJOYING LIFE, EUROPE IS AWSOME!!!! I AM CURRENTLY WORKING ON ORDERS. HOPEFULLY I'LL GET SOMETHING GOOD..." [27MAY98]

ANDERSON, AZ3 bamasailorjra@yahoo.com "...I am currently stationed with VP-47 in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. I'm having a great time being stationed in a VP squadron. The Golden Swordsmen have been very generous to me..." [11MAR2005]

ANDERSON, Larry W. lander6633@charter.net "...I served with VP-47 from 1966 until August 1968 as a Jezebel Operator on Crew 12 and later on Crew 7..." [E-Mail Updated 01DEC2003 | 18NOV98]

ANDRADE, Tyleen "Ty" alohahiker@yahoo.com "...I did my first tour in the Navy at VP-47. We were one tight knit bunch. The aircraft crash in the desert made me realize there is a God. I have been through almost the same situation at my current command. I was in Souda Bay, Crete and my squadron lost an aircraft at the of the runaway. Again, everyone got out with minor injuries. I just want say that I would fly in a P-3 anyday. Get in touch with me guys. I'm currently serving in NS Rota, Spain with VQ-2. Thanks for being such a good family...I have made it back to the land of Aloha. It is even better the second time around.I working at COMPATRECONFORPAC in K-bay. Planning doing alot of scuba diving. E-mail if your planning a trip to my kneck of the woods...I was working at Hickam AFB at the POW MIA Accounting Command. I am a full time student at Hawaii Pacific University. I am making documentry films and doing multimedia and photography, who knew..." [[E-Mail/BIO Updated 22OCT2005 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 13OCT99 | 02MAY98]

ANDRE, Duane dandre@cox.net "...I served with VP-47 under CDRs Pickens and Jansen, two capable, but clearly different personalities. My best time in 26 years in the Navy was as an Personnel Exchange Program Officer in Norway and as a 'white hat' in AEWBarRonPac and VP-47. I just renewed acquaintances with some former Shipmates. Don Sehorn and Jack Swain are good people. Iwas looking at the last Reunion roster, and was pleasantly surprised to see how many names are from 'my generation'..." [E-Mail Updated 08APR2006 | 27FEB2002]

ANGULO, C. L. angleiron13@hotmail.com "...JULIE operator VP-47, crew one 1965-66..." [22MAR2010]

ARISTO, AE2 Paul paul.aristo@dfrc.nasa.gov "...I served with VP-47 from 1976-1979. Deployed to NAS Misawa, Japan and NSF Diego Garcia. I'm looking for any old Shipmates that would like to BS and maybe refresh me on what good times we had..." [06DEC2000]

ARCE, LCDR Armand O. Retired aoarce@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1974 to 1978..." [E-Mail Updated 24MAY2004 | 26AUG98]

ARMSTRONG, PH3 Dan dan.armstrong@evsc.k12.in.us "...I served with VP-47 from 1972 to 1975. I was on duty in the base Photo Lab on April 12, 1973, the afternoon the P-3 and the NASA convair 990 collided (In Memorial for VP-47 lost friends April 12, 1973). The lone survivor, Bruce Mallibert and I were friends. Bruce was a great guy and I think about him quite often..." [28NOV2009]

ARNTZEN, Roger (Arnie) arnie25@aol.com "...I served with VP-7 (55-57) as a radioman, ATU-614 (57-58) flying P2V-2's, 3's, & 4's. Also VP-6 (66-67) as a radioman then VO-67 (67-68). Went to VP-31 (69-74) then to VP-47 (74-77). Lot of wonderful times in WESTPAC (i.e., Olongapo, Bankok, etc.). Retired in 81. Sure would like to hear from any shipmates, espically VO-67..." [ICQ# 3209500] [Updated 09JAN97]

ASHBY, Joe jjashby@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VP-47 from 1955 to 1956 (NAS Iwakuni, Japan/NAS Alameda, California), VP-881 from 1957 to 1960 (Buckley NAS), VP-661 from 1960 to 1962 (NAS Patuxent River, Maryland/NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba), twidget on radio, radar, ECM. Also member Mariner/Marlin Association ..." [18OCT2003]

ASSERSON, Bill c/o John Noland jsnoland56@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1953-1956)..." [E-Mail Updated 13MAR2018 | E-Mail Updated 19DEC2013 | E-Mail Updated 22APR2002 | 29NOV99]

ATHA, Nicolette nselby2002@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1992 to 1995) and VP-1 (1995 to 1996). I am currently working for the Dycorp International on P-3's in Greenville SC. Ciardelli is here too. Vesey came up with VP-30 a few months ago..." [16AUG2005]

AVALLONE, Jerry ava2l1@yahoo.com "...Greeting to all my former Shipmates: I was attached to VP-47 from 02Jan59-25Oct59 at NAS Alameda, California. We were flying P5M-2 (with a T tail) and a few -1s (straight vert.stab.). Althought my time was short I did enjoy flying the "boats" quite a bit. I even had the experince of working on the old MARS aircraft (JRM) getting 4 of them ready for sale and eventual flight to Canada for duty as fire fighters. That hull tank compartment could carry a lot of H2O. I have a son who is carrying on the family tradition as a Naval Aviator and currently instructing students in the Buckeye. He transferred from the P-3 community At NAS Whidbey Island, Washington approx. 2 years ago and is considered an excellent Aviator. Talk about PROUD...Regards..." [E-Mail Updated 01OCT99 | 22AUG98]

AWAD, Marc marcawad@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from about December 1982 through November 1985..." [E-Mail Updated 25MAY2003 | 12NOV97]


BAGGETT, YNC George Retired bippy2@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 from December 1957 to December 1960. I retired as a YNC in June 1976. I was stationed at NAF NAF Naples, Italy, NAF Monterey, California, MSC Office, Canal Zone, USS Stribling (DD-867) and finally in the Pentagon..." [05FEB2007]

BAILEY, Shauna carasbeara@gmail.com "...I served with VP-31 (1989-1993) first in the Line Division then in the AE Shop and VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii..." [12NOV2015]

BARAN, ATC(AW/NAC) Richard "Shipwreck" Shipmate Pix geographer@wavecable.com "...I served aboard the USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3) with ADC Mark Stroschein from 1985 to 1988, HC-1 from 1988 to 1990 NAS North Island, San Diego, California, VP-31 from 1990 to 1991 (student) NAS Moffett Field, California with AT1 Kanton Miller as my instructor, VP-40 from 1991 to 1994 NAS Moffett Field, California and NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, CPWP NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, VP-9 NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. I particpated on two deployments with USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3) flying UH-1Ns and marine CH-46s. Flew H-3s and CH-53s with HC1. Saw my first P-3 doing sub prosecution off San Clemente Island. Did the VP-40 "Quad site" as CAC-7s IFT along with AW1 Mark Judge and AO1 Jimmy Thompson, flying from Howard AFB, Panama, NAS Key West, FL, NAS Adak, AL, and LaPaz, Mexico! Later went to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NAS Misawa, Japan on my fourth deployment in the Navy with the 3 Cajuns (AW3 Christian Leleux, AO3 Troy Kling, and ???) on CAC-7. Served as the last west-coast IFT evaluator with CPWP under CAPTAIN Getzfred, CDR Blanchette and the Chiefs Johnson (little "J" and big "J"). While at the wing I went TAD to VP-47 for their 1997 7th fleet deployment. I then served with VP-9 for 3 deployments (Gulf, Gulf, and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan), where it was my pleasure and honor to serve as IFT with LT Lamana, AO1 'Ray Ray' Davis, AO1 'L.A.' Mequet, and AEC Mike Johnson. I moved on to Naval Weapons Test Squadron NAS Point Mugu, California in September 2000. We flew P-3As, 'billboard' NP-3Ds, and brought C-130s back into the active duty navy (including 'Phoenix321' of VXE-6 fame for any OAEs out there.) After redesignating from NWTS to VX-30, I deployed the only Airborne Drone Launch and Control DC-130A left in existence to Operation Iraqi Freedom at Ali al Salem AB, Kuwait. I flew with our XO, CDR Steve Gasparovich, LCDR Mark Miller, Major Baxter and SCMSgt Brooks of the CA ANG, AM1 Mike Allen, AME1 Ralph Herrera, and AT1 Sean Schuhriemen. I transferred to VP-1 in August 2004, taking a few weeks to go TAD down to Eglin AFB, FL to fly the AFs last NC-130A 'Lone Wolf' on several T&E flights, culminating in its final flight. I flew with LtCol Duffy, Major Barkley, and SSgt Rousset. After returning I was assigned as Safety/NATOPS LCPO. "We're still alive, so don't worry about it!"..." [BIO Updated 23FEB2004 | BIO Updated 23JUL2003 | Rank Updated 13NOV2001 | E-Mail Updated 01JUN2001 | 30JUL2000]

BARKER, AMCS David Retired dbarker6636@charter.net "...I served with VC-61, VJ-61, VP-61, VP-47, ATU-401, VW-13, VP-11 (August 1957 to February 1958), VT-7, VP-44, VP-50 (1969 to 1971) and retired in 1971. I am having trouble confirming that while serving we VP-50 - I was at NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam while we were in the Philippines. I was the one that got the plywood to remodel the Beer Mess for a case of beer. I hope someone will remember. I was the Senor Chief in QA..." [BIO Updated 03JAN2010 | 11MAY2006]

BATES, AWN2 Bruce Shipmate Pix bruce@bates-r-us.org "...I went through the AW pipeline with the second batch (class 850) of AWs to be processed through NAS Memphis, Tennessee. After a year in the pipe, I emerged from VP-31 as an AWN3 in November 1969 with orders to VP-47, NAS Moffett Field, California. VP-47 `69 -`74. Deployment to Okinawa, squadron transition to P3-C, deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska, and a rotating "det" to NAS Adak, Alaska, NAS Agana, Guam, and NAS Moffett Field, California. Then orders to VP-31. VP-31 `74 - `77 SS-3 instructor for about the first year, then assigned to the ISDT (Instructional Systems Development Team) project until I got out. Not too far out. I still live about two miles, as the P-3 flies, from NAS Moffett Field, California, in Santa Clara, CA. Happy landings to all VP sailors, especially those that I served with. Glad to hear from any Shipmates..." WEBSITE: http://www.bates-r-us.org/ [E-Mail/PIX/URL Updated 26JAN2002 | E-Mail Updated 13NOV2000 | 21SEP96]

BAXTER, ATC John "Johnny" Retired john.s.baxter8.ctr@us.navy.mil "...Joined in Jan 1966, attended boot camp at Great Lakes with tons of snow. Then headed to NAS North Island, San Diego, California for aircrew training. Went to NAS Moffett Field, California to VP-47 68-70 as P-3 radio operator. We deployed to NS Sangley Point, Philippines and detached to NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam 1 Nov 1968-31 Mar 1969. We returned to beautiful San Jose and then did it again, only this time via NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan (great NCO club). We passed thru PI to load up the plane with San Miguel headed to NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam 16 Jan 1970-13 Jul 1970. I then went back to NAS Memphis, Tennessee for B school and instructor training. I next made my first tour in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in 1971-1975 at NAMTD 1011. Then it was off to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (fun in the sun) as tech and load master on C-118, C-131, HU-16, UH-1N. We traveled all over the Caribbean. Then I headed back to NAS Moffett Field, California for P-3C Inflight tech training after which I went to VP-46. We deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and visited Norway, Netherlands, England and Scotland. I was recruited to come back to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in 1980. Got to Force Warfare/VX-20 Aircraft Test Directorate and became part of the VP test community. I participated in the integration and test of the ARC-187 UHF, ALR-66 ESM, SS3 plasma panel, and DIFAR plasma upgrades. I picked up chief after 14 years. I went back to the fleet in 1984 to VP-1 in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii as P-3C inflight tech. Stayed there until Dec 1986 and came back to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, same office, same job. I retired Feb 1987, took off my uniform, sat back down and been in the same office ever since. I am currently a contractor supporting P-3/P-8 communication systems..." [20MAR2023]

BELLAMY, Dave bellamyd@worldnet.att.net "...I served with VP-47 (1969), VP-64 (1971), VP-30 (1972), RAF 206 (1975), VP-24 (1978), VP-10 (1981), and NAS Bermuda (1987). Looking forward to Andy Jampoler's book about the VP-9 ditching (ADAK, The Rescue of Alfa Foxtrot 586) due to be published in April 2003..." [04MAR2003]

BENNER, AXCS Mike Retired mbennj@attbi.com "...I served in VP-47 from 1965 to 1967 as an AX3 and AX2 and made a NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan deployment as a ground pounder working in 210 and AIMD. I left for AVI "B" school in Millington and then served in VP-46 from 1968 to 1969 and did an NAS Adak, Alaska deployment. Did shore duty at NADC Warminster, PA then got into the VS navy for the remainder of my career retiring in 1983. It's great to see some familiar names after all these years..." [17APR2002]

BENTLEY, Don Retired donnybentley@hotmail.com "...I served in VP-4, VP-22, VS-33, VP-48, VP-47 and CPW-10 with three tours of Instructor Duty at NAS Memphis, Tennessee and RAG time with VP-31 in my thirty year career. I have found numerous friends and Shipmates comments in your squadron Guestbook entries. I do have the duty to inform his many Shipmates that may not have known, that LCDR Craig Fenn Melio died in June of 1996 and is buried in Barancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, FL..." [E-Mail Updated 20SEP2000 | 15SEP2000]

BARNES, AOAN Sanford storm66@sprintpcs.com "...I served with VP-47..the best VP squadon on the west coast! I learned alot from everyone there. I love the VP Navy. All love goes to those who are in the middle east and to LCDR Huff of VP-47, I met your parents here in Pittsburgh. Great well being to you all!..." [13DEC2001]

BELME, AD1 Richard richb76@gmail.com "...I served with VP-31 (1981 to 1983), VP-47 (1983 to 1987) and back to VP-31 (1987 to 1991). Did some Naval Reserve time with VP-91(1991 to 1993 and 1995 to 1998). I went to FE School in 1984 and served in that capacity until 1998. Did all my time at NAS Moffett Field, California, unfortunately the only thing flying there now is the Spotted Owl. Lots of good memories and friends during my enlistment..." [02JUN2008]

BERLETT, Paul bigtuna29@hotmail.com "...I WAS IN VP-8 FROM DEC-93 TO DEC-97, THEN VP-30 FROM JAN-98 TO JAN-00. I AM NOW IN VP-47 IN MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. IF ANYONE WOULD LIKE TO TALK ABOUT THE GOOD TIMES LEAVE ME A NOTE..." [17APR2001]

BERRIDGE, John P3Chief@aol.com "...I served in VP-31 from '85 to '89 then graduated from F.E. school and went to VP-22 from '89 to '93 flew the last active duty super "Bee" and then went to VX-1 from '93 to '96, currently onboard VP-47 crew 10..." [29JAN99]

BESS, Charles CBess99852@aol.com "...Drafted 1971. Enlisted USN Aviation Electronics Technician VF 124. AOCS class 15-73 Mather; NAS Moffett Field, California VP-47 (78-81); Denver Recruiting 81-85; NSF Diego Garcia ASWOC 85-86; Monterey PGS 86-88; VP-9 88-91; NAVAIR 91-94; and Retired. Licensed Colorado Electrician, presently owner of P&C Electrical Inc..." [21FEB99]

BETHKE, CDR Steven G. Shipmate Pix http://www.nol.navy.mil/homepages/vp4/co/CommandingOfficer.htm "...A native of Los Angeles, California, Commander Steven G. Bethke graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics. He entered the Navy through Aviation Officer Candidate School and received a commission in January 1988. After designation as Naval Flight Officer and fleet replacement training in the P-3C (MOD) aircraft at VP-31, NAS Moffett Field, California, he reported to VP-17, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii in June 1989. Commander Bethke made one deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska and a tri-site deployment during Operation DESERT STORM to NSF Diego Garcia; Masirah, Omanand NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. He served as the Electronic Branch Officer, Training Plans Officer and Command Services Officer. Commander Bethke reported to VP-31, NAS Jacksonville, Florida as a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) Instructor NFO in June 1992 where he served as the Community Services Officer, Assistant Safety Officer and Aircraft Division Officer. During this tour he attended Webster University earning a Master of Arts degree in Human Resource Management. Reporting back to sea duty, Commander Bethke checked into USS KITTY HAWK air department in March 1995 where he qualified as Surface Warfare Officer, Officer of the Deck (Underway) and Command Duty Officer (Underway). Following this, he attended the Naval Post Graduate School from June 1997 to December 1998 receiving a Masters of Art degree in National Security Affairs with regional specialty in the Far East. He reported to VP-47, MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii in June 1999 for his department head tour. Commander Bethke served as the Safety/NATOPS Officer, Tactics Officer and Operations Officer completing 2 multi-site deployments to NAF Misawa, Japan / NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NSF Diego Garcia / Masirah, Oman/ NSA Bahrain. In August 2001 he reported to CPRW-1, Kami Seya Japan where he served as Current Operations Officer for Commander Task Forces 57 and 72 spending equal time in Japan and NSA Bahrain. During this tour he participated in Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. Moving back to Hawaii, Commander Bethke reported to VP-4 in April 2004 as executive officer. Personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various unit awards and campaign medals..." [19APR2005]

BIES, AT3 Brett bgbies@gmail.com "...Served with VP-47 from 1992-1995 as an IFT. NAS Moffett Field, California and NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Deployed to NAS Misawa, Japan; NAS Adak, Alaska; and NSF Diego Garcia. If anyone remebers me, drop me a line. I'm living in Phoenix, AZ for the moment..." [E-Mail Updated 28SEP2007 | 03JUL2002]

BIGOS, Randy rbigos@aol.com "...VQ-4 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1971-1974, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas Nav Instructor from 1974-1976, VP-47 TACCO from 1976-1979, VP-31 Instructor from 1979-1982, VP-47 Dept Hd from 1983-1985, OIC ASWOC/TSC NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan from 1985-1987, XO/CO Tacron 12 San Diego from 1987-1991, XO NAS Keflavik, Iceland from 1991-1993, and XO FLT Combat Tracen SD from 1993-1995. Retired in San Diego. Surf's Up! Cheers to all my Shipmates :)..." [03MAY2000]

BINGHAM, MCPO Roger Retired rogerbingham39@gmail.com "...My first squadron after AT(AN) school in NAS Memphis, Tennessee was VP-19 (1959-1962), Worked in the AT shop and later became an aircrew man. Was the First Tech in Crew 11 and was the first Alpha Crew in VP-19. Reenlisted and went to Advanced B school NAS Memphis, Tennessee, Assigned to FAETUPAC (1963-1966), used my advanced training to help build a flight deck simulator (P2V and P-3) to train TACCOs on the Airborne Display System, and flew as an onboard instructor with VP-31. While at FAETUPAC I had the privilege to train the last TACCO in the P5M Seaplane. Assigned to VP-47 (1966-1969), as an AX1 I flew as an alternate crewmember, I advanced to Chief when the squadron was deployed to NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan with side detachments to U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand. We deployed the next year to NS Sangley Point, Philippines with detachments to NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam. I remember some great people and great times. Then the AW rate started, I remained AXC and was assigned as a Navy Recruiter in Brainard, Minnesota (1970-1975). Advanced to Senior Chief (AXCS). Assigned to VP-46 (1975-1978), worked as Avionics Division Chief and later as Maintenance Chief, Deployed to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan; NAS Adak, Alaska; and NAF Misawa, Japan. Transferred across the field at NAS Moffett Field, California to VP-31 as FRAMP Training MCPO (1978-1981). Retired from VP-48 (1982-1985) as Command Master Chief...." [BIO Updated 25DEC2013 | E-Mail Updated 18NOV2008 | E-Mail Updated 28MAR2004 | 02APR2001]

BISHOP, LCDR Don OPS@rcoh.spear.navy.mil "...VT-27 SERGRAD (89-91); VP-47 (91-94); VPU-2 (94-97);and currently a shooter on USS NIMITZ "Stalag 68" with a prospective parole date of Dec 98 headed to VPU-1 as a Dept Head (lobotomy not included). Looking for former Swordsmen and Wizards..." [11OCT98]

BLAIR, Stephanie sfoley@pacifier.com "...I served with both VP-19 and VP-47 as a powerplants mechanic. Three dets and four years later I left the Navy with fond memories and some wonderful friends. This site has enabled me to renew a few friendships - thanks..." [11JUL2001]

BLUESTEIN, CDR Keith A. Retired keith@bluestein.net "....I served VP-48 (September 1985 to July 1989), VP-31 (July 1989 to February 1992), VP-40 (January 1996 to December 1997) and VP-47 as Executive Officer and Commanding Officer (May 2000 to May 2002). I am now retired and working as a government civilian..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 23JUL2008 | E-Mail Updated 11SEP2000 | BIO Updated 10SEP2000 | 01MAR98]

BLYTHE, AMS3 David J. foxtrot991@att.net "...I served with VP-47 (1971-1972) with a deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska (first Charlie-Bird Deployment) in the Summer (1971) watching the USSR Fleet observe AEC Project Canikin (Nuke Underground Blast at Amchitka Island). Set all time Naval Record for constant "Flap" the 2 months prior to blast. Skipper was R.D. Munson. So if you ever see a Charlie Tail with a small "Block M" after the RD, that was officially approved for R. D. Munson just prior to our deployment from NAS Moffett Field, California (06/1971-12/1971). No detachments to Wake were allowed for the Navy's first squadron to deploy with "On Board" computers..." [E-Mail Updated 22AUG2012 | 28JUN2009]

BOGGS, William P. Wpboggs@aol.com "...I transferred to VP-3 when FASRON 9 folded at Cecil Field, Florida in early '50. Transferred from VP-3 to shore duty at NAS Point Mugu, California in late '52 (Backseat Radar Operator for Area Clearance in XAD-1W, AD-4, and AF). Transferred from NAS Point Mugu, California to VP-47 in '54 and left VP-47 and the Navy in mid-'56. I reside in California after a 30 year service career and now almost 26 years of blessed retirement..." [12JUL98]

BOYD, CDR Randall T. Retired C/O His Son Stephen Boyd sbmarshfield@aol.com "...My dad is Cdr Randall T. Boyd Jr (ret). He was in VP-47 in 1950 during the Korean War. He was awarded the DFC (2 Gold stars) and the Air Medal (4 Gold Stars) while he was a member of VP-47. He was also C.O. of VP-34 in 1955. He was also with VS-52. I am one of his 5 sons. Our dad is very ill (terminally) with cancer. If any of you remember him from Korea or NAS Trinidad, British West Indies (VP-34) or NS Rota, Spain or NAS Pensacola, Florida or ONI DC or USS Dallas, etc - please send him a card at his Houston home. I am sure he'd love to see a card from you. He doesn't do phones now. Thank you all. The address is Cdr Randall Boyd Jr. ret. 780 W. Bay Area Blvd Webster, TX 77598..." [21OCT2001]

BOYLE, ASM3 Ralph B. rbboyle53@bellsouth.net "...School at NATTC Memphis (1971), VAW-111 Det-3 (1971 to 1973), USS Odgen LPD-5 Air Department (1973 to 1974) and VP-47 (1974 to 1975)..." [14OCT2005]

BOYTE, AW3 "Steve" smboyte@yahoo.com "...One of the early AWs to come through school at NAS Millington, Tennessee. Then more school, including SERE School at Coronado (NAS North Island, San Diego, California), then VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California. Finally reached VP-47 in October 1969 and stayed until discharge in July 1972. Deployed to NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan. ‘70 with detachments to The Philippines, U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand and NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam. Was on the flight crew that found those sailors drifting, without power, on that amphibious craft up near Japan. Then enjoyed a deployment to beautiful, downtown NAS Adak, Alaska. Remember sitting in plane with engines revved up, listening to countdown to detonation of an atomic device. Thankfully, NAS Adak, Alaska did not sink and we just taxied back to the hanger. At different times, was on Crews 11, 5, and 1. Now living on the banks of a bayou in Louisiana. Would love to hear from former Shipmates..." [23MAR2019]

BRABEC, AMCS Larry M. Retired larrbrbc@aol.com "...I served as a FE (Crew 4 and 10) with VP-47 (1969-1971) at NAS Moffett Field, California with deployments to NS Sangley Point, Philippines, NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan and U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand..." [23AUG2016]

BRADLEY, AW Donald R. bradley0878@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-47 AS AN A.W. from 1987 TO 1991. I had over 1,000 hours flight time. I would like to hear from "Grid Bentley" and the rest of the guys that I served with. I went to NAS Moffett Field, California this past summer and boy has it changed. Feel free to E-Mail me..." [30NOV2005]

BRAMBLETT, Johnny johnny244@webtv.net "...I served with VP-47 from November 1957 to April 1959 made one tour to NAS Iwakuni, Japan. I would like to hear from old buddies..." [14FEB2001]

BREITENSTEIN, AF1 Frank fvbreit@yahoo.com "...I was and aerial photographer with VP-47 (and also flew with RAF 209 Squadron (Sunderlands) that operated from the Corson and at Iwakuni). I joined the squadron in June 1949 at NAS North Island, San Diego, California as an AF3 and was with it until I left it at NAS Iwakuni, Japan, as an AF1, in May 1953 to be discharged. My plan was to attend college (BYU) for two years and come back in and apply for LDO. I got married instead but worked about the next 30 years as a scientist for the Navy, finally retiring at the Naval Ocean Systems Center, San Diego..." [E-Mail Updated 30NOV2003 | E-Mail Updated 24JUL2002 | 19JUL2000]

BRITTLE, Scott scott_brittle@hotmail.com "...Hi Shipmates. I served in six VP units, VP-47 1981-1984, VP-31 1985-1987, VP-62 1987-1990, OINC of VP-68 1990-1992, Training Officer COMRESPATWINGPAC 1992-1994, CO/XO VP-91 1994-1996. Great to see so many VP Sailors on the WEB..."

BRITTON, Al albie36@proaxis.com "...I served with VP-17 / VA(HM)-10 from 1955 to 1958, VP-50 in NAS Iwakuni, Japan from 1959 to 1962, FAETUPAC NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1962 to 1965, VP-47 from 1966 to 1970 at NAS Moffett Field, California and was the Commander Naval Air Force, US Pacific Fleet (COMNAVAIRPAC) Naval Aviation Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) Electronics Elaluator from 1970 to 1974..." [26JAN2007]

BROWN, AW2 John W. jbrown1260@comcast.net "...I was an AW2 with VP-47 form August 1992 to March 1994..." [E-Mail Updated 15AUG2002 | 14JAN99]

BROWN, Lehman P. brownsfarm@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1956-1960) NAS Alameda, California with deployments to NAS Iwakuni, Japan and flew with Crew-11. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 04JUL2013 | E-Mail Updated 09APR2006 | E-Mail Updated 31JUL2005 | E-Mail Updated 04MAY2001 | 05MAR2000]

BROWN, Ron ronebrown@hughes.net "...I served with VP-47 (1967-1970) with 3 WestPac deployments. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [02DEC2012]

BRUMMETT, CDR Joseph D. Jr. joebrumm@bellsouth.net Shipmate Pix "...I served with VT-28 (1971-1973) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, VP-47 (1973-1976) at NAS Moffett Field, California flying the P-3 with deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska, NAF Misawa, Japan and NAS Agana, Guam, Officer Recruiter (1976-1979) at Navy Recruiting District Pittsburgh, PA and rransfered to Naval Reserves. Flew for Braniff for 18 months as a B727 Flight Engineer before layoff. December of 1980 hired by Eastern Airlines and flew B727 in addition to Flight Engineer on B727, L1011 and the A300 Airbus. In 1989 hired by American Airlines and again started out as a Flight Engineer ont he B727 but after six months transitioned to co-pilot on the B767/757 and later the B777. Flew International for the next 14 years. Finally made Captain on the B737 and retired May 2007. Currently playing a lot of golf in South Florida waiting for Grand Children from any of three children..." [PIX Updated 24MAR2014 | 03APR2013]

BURKETT, Terry B. tburkett1@austin.rr.com "...I was a member of VP-9 from October 1965 to November 1967 and a member of VP-17 from October 1968 to May 1971. In both squadrons I flew primarily as a radioman (Crew 7 in VP-9 and Crew 10 in VP-17). In May 1971 I transferred to FASTRAGRUPAC Det NAS Moffett Field, California until May 1975 when I joined the Golden Swordsmen of VP-47. This was the best duty of my naval career. We made two NAF Misawa, Japan and one NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan deployment during my time in the squadron. I served with the best Chiefs and AWs in the fleet while in VP-47! In January 1980 I transferred to VS-41, then on to FASOTRAGRUPAC NASNI, and finally NMPC Det NAS Dallas, Texas. I retired 31 Dec 1986. I own and maintain http://www.vp47tribute.com, a web site dedicated to the history of VP-47 from September 1948 to the present. I am interested in communicating with any Shipmate and particularly those from VP-47 of any year. Thanks!..." [E-Mail Updated 20MAR2006 | BIO Updated 19MAR2006 | 19MAY2005]

BYRNE, Jerry (Byrnee) Retired fishboy13@hotmail.com "...I served with VA-37 (USS Forrestal), EEAP NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-30, VP-4, CPWP NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, VP-47, and Security Force NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I am now retired to Gold Coast Australia..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 26JAN2004 | BIO Updated 07FEB99 | 16FEB98]


CADMUS, AMS1 Don doncadmus@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1984-1989). I was a FE assigned to Crew-5..." [05FEB2021]

CAMPBELL, James jlc2690@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1976-1980) and flew with Crew-1 and was a NATOPS Instructor..." [14MAY2013]

CAMPBELL, AEC James M. "Soupy" Retired blandjcampbell@aol.com "...During my 20 year career in the US Navy I was stationed in VP-47 from 1957-1960. I was Crew Electrician in Crew 8 and remember many exciting flights when Rocky Bamford was our PPC. I was in VP-40 from 1966-1968. This was a very short tour as it was the final year of sea duty. They wouldn't let me extend for the third year at NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. I was a First Class and worked in the AE shop. In 1968 I transferred to NAS Moffett Field, California for a tour with NAMTRADET. Buck Williams was our CO. I taught P-3B electric power systems to pilots and FEs. I taught a couple of other systems but that was a long time ago and I have forgotten their designations. I made AEC during this tour. After NAMTRADET I transferred to VP-46 where I was shop chief in the Electric Shop, AME Shop and Operations and finally I was the Drug/Alcohol Education contact. I made five (5) deployments to NAS Iwakuni, Japan with VP-47 and VP-46, one (1) to NAS Adak, Alaska with VP-46, and one (1) to NS Sangley Point, Philippines with VP-40. I have nothing but good memories from my entire career. After retiring I went to work for Lockheed in Sunnyvale, CA. on the Trident Missile Program. While with Lockheed I lived and worked in Sunnyvale, Washington DC, and Helensburgh, Scotland retiring as a Senior Manager in December 2000. My wife, Beth, and I now live in Oak Harbor, WA. on Whidbey Island. Retirement is great. I was also elected and seated on the Oak Harbor City Council in January 2006 for a four year term. NAS Whidbey Island, Washington is the home of the VP-1, VP-40, VP-46, VP-69, VQ-1 and VQ-2. It is also home-port for 14 VAQ squadrons who fly EA6B Aircraft. We have a great, albeit, small PBY Museum and recently a Memorial to all VP Sailors was erected downtown. I would enjoy hearing from any of my old Shipmates. If you make it to the Island I would be glad to give you a tour of both bases, the city and Whidbey Island..." [09APR2007]

CARBONE, Pete boner_fe@hotmail.com "...LOOKING FOR SOME BUD'S FROM VP-47 90-93 AND CAC-5 BOTTOM FEEDERS FROM NAS Misawa, Japan DEPLOYMENT '92. PLEASE CONTACT ME..." [20NOV98]

CARDIN, AW2 JoCarl JCardin@aol.com"...May 95 - Present..."

CARNES, CAPTAIN Robert S. carnesr@mcwl.quantico.usmc.mil "...I served with VP-47 68-70, AE-2 at the time of discharge. Served as aircrew with Crew 11 (I think)...Went to college and medical school and rejoined the Navy on a medical scholarship. Served on the U.S.S. Hunley (AS-31) as surgeon, then as a flight surgeon with CVW-6 (U.S.S. Independence), then back to the hospital for residency and fellowship. Climbed the ranks in hospital food chain and got bored and went with the Marines where I've served the last 6 years as first Brigade Surgeon, then A/CS Marine Forces, Pacific, then Marine Corps Warfighting Lab. Now headed to Office of Naval Research as Director of their Human Systems program. Not your average career progression. But the best part was the first two years with VP-47. The rest has just been a coast downhill. I'm kicking myself for not hearing about last year's Reunion as I was within hailing distance of the meeting site. Best regards..." [19MAR99]

CARROLL, Dave okion@mnsi.net "...VP-47 Ordnanceman from 90-93. Looking for other Swordsmen to compare memories with. CAC 5 Bottomfeeders were the best bunch of guys I ever worked with..." [16JUL99]

CARTER, AOC Tim "Duck" duckman13@uswest.net "...I was stationed at VP-19 from 1977-1980 as an inflight Ordnanceman. VP-31 from 1980-1983 as an Inflight and grounds Ordnance Instructor. VP-50 from 1983-1986 as an Inflight Ordnanceman. PMTC, NAS Point Mugu, California, 1986-1990 as part of Range Aircrew flying P-3A's. VP-47 from 1990-1993 as as Inflight Ordnanceman. VP-40 from 1996 to present as AO shop Chief. IYAOYAS...I am now on deployment to NAS Misawa, Japan...I am no longer in VP-40 due to retiring on 31 August 1999. I am now living in Olympia, Washington and I am a full time college student, reverting back to my hippie days, and a teller of "Sea Stories"..." [E-Mail Updated 30MAR30 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 19NOV99 | E-Mail Updated 27FEB99 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 18DEC98 | Updated 21MAR98]

CHALFIN, Steve chalfin@uthscsa.edu "...I served as Flight Surgeon in VP-47 from 82-85, also TAD to VP-40 for their NAS Misawa, Japan deployment in 1983. Still in the Reserves as a Flight Surgeon / Ophthalmologist, but nothing beats my time in the VP Navy. I'd love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [04NOV2000]

CHAVEZ, CAPTAIN Carlos M. http://www.cprw11.navy.mil/Commodore.html "...Upon graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1981 Captain Chavez completed flight training in Pensacola, Florida and was designated a Naval Flight Officer. From 1983 to 1986 he was assigned to VP-1 home-ported in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. While with the Screaming Eagles he completed two WESTPAC deployments to Okinawa and NAS Misawa, Japan. He served as the Command Security Manager, NFO Training Officer, and AW Division Officer. Captain Chavez' next assignment was to the West Coast FRS, VP-31, in NAS Moffett Field, California. There he served as the P-3C (Update III) Transition Coordinator, NFO Training Officer and P-3B (MOD) AIRPAC NATOPS Instructor/Evaluator. Following this tour he was assigned as the Assistant Navigator in USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71). There he qualified as Officer of the Deck (OOD) Underway and completed a deployment to the Arabian Gulf where USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT joined coalition forces in support of DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM. In January 1992, Captain Chavez reported to PVP-47, deployed to NAS Misawa, Japan. In March 1992, he was assigned temporary duty to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command where he served as the Air Operations Officer. He returned to VP-47 in August 1992 and served as the Training Officer and Operations Officer. Following his Aviation Department Head tour, Captain Chavez reported to the Naval Postgraduate School. Upon completing his Master's degree in Information Technology Management he was assigned as the Systems Management Curricular Officer. In December 1997, Captain Chavez reported to VP-40 as Executive Officer and assumed command in February 1999. While with the Fighting Marlins he completed a WESTPAC deployment to NAS Misawa, Japan. From 2000 to 2002, Captain Chavez was assigned to USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) as the ship's Navigator. In October 2001, the USS CARL VINSON was on-station in the North Arabian Sea and had the distinction of launching the first air strikes into Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Captain Chavez assumed command of CPRW-11 on 29 January 2003..." [29JUN2003]

CHISM, AW2 Danny danny_chism@hotmail.com "... I served with VP-47 from 1985 to 1988. I served with Crew-1 as a SS2 for a NSF Diego Garcia deployment in 1985 and with Crew-5 as SS1 for a NAF Misawa, Japan deployment in 1987. I am currently a Captain in Command of an Infantry Company in the Arkansas Army National Guard. I would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 14OCT2009 | 31JAN2000]

CHRYSTAL, AT1 Shawn (TAILLEFER) jchrystal95@cs.com "...I served with VP-4 from 1983-1986, Recruiter Twin Falls, Id. from 1986-1989, Pacific Missile Test Center (PMTC) from 1989-1991, and VP-47 from 1991-1992..." [E-Mail Updated 26MAR2003 | 11NOV98]

CLARK, D. 1033@aol.com "...Served in both VP-17 and VP-47. Flew in P2V's P3A, B, C. Presently a NAESU Rep on P3's at NAS Jacksonville, Florida..."

CLENDENIN, Tom kilroy317@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1982-1984) as a Second Mechanic..." [26APR2017]

CLOUGH, LCDR Richard F. Retired cloughrf@aol.com "...I served (enlisted) with VP-6, VP-47, VQ-1, VP-91, CPW Atlantic/Pacific, CWO/LDO Program 2002, Strategic Communications Wing ONE at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma and Mobile Maintenance Facility-Charlie (MMF-C)..." [18SEP2014]

COFFMAN, CMC Douglas Retired coffman580@msn.com "...I served aboard the USS Barbel (SS-580) (1979-1981), USS Guitarro (SSN-665) (1985-1986), USS Darter (SS-576) (1988-1989), USS Columbus (SSN-762) (1993-1997), COMSUBPAC/COMSUBRON 7 (1998-2000), USS Greeneville (SSN-772) (2000-2002), NAS Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (2004-2005) and VP-47 (2005-2007)..." [04NOV2016]

COLE, AWCM Ron Retired ron_cole@ntsc.navy.mil "...VP-1 OCT61-DEC63, VP-45 JAN64-MAR66, VP-47 OCT67-NOV69, ASCAC USS Kitty Hawk '71-'73, and TSC/ASWOC NAS Sigonella, Sicily '79-'81..." [09JUL98]

Memorial Picture "...COLUMBIA, Larson "Burt"...My Fathers, Larson "Burt" Columbia, passed away Sept. 12, 2005. Dad served with VP-47 (late 60's early 70's) at NAS Moffett Field, California. I would love to hear from any of Dad's former Shipmates. Thanks..." Contributed by James Columbia jimcolumbia@reagan.com [08MAR2016]

COLVERT, CAPTAIN Bob 'Buoyking' Retired buoyking@mminternet.com "...I stumbled across this site and recognized many names from VP-47, VP-45 and NATC NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I was in VP-47 from 1970-73 making deployments to NAHA Okinawa, NAS Adak, Alaska, and split to NAS Adak, Alaska/ NAS Agana, Guam. Testpilot school for NFO's at NATC and a tour 73-77 at WST/ASW Directorate then ConseventhFLT staff aboard the flagship got me up to 1979 when I joined VP-45 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. We made deployments to NAS Bermuda and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. I build trainers in Orlando for a while then did another tour at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland at Force Warfare. Washington in NAVAIR and five years as PMA -264 finished me off. I'm now in Seal Beach CA working for Boeing. Any Shipmates who have time can drop me a line..." [E-Mail Updated 16DEC99 | 24OCT99]

COMPTON, AW2 Richard N. myappraiser@charter.net "...Served one tour in the Navy with VP-47 from 1977-1981 as a SS3 with crew 4. Would like to hear from former Rubber Ducks with whom I served..." [E-Mail Updated 02JAN2008 | 03OCT2002]

CONNELLY, CAPTAIN Robert J. "Jeff" http://www.pmrf.navy.mil/co.html "...Commanding Officer - Pacific Missile Range Facility - A native of Montclair, New Jersey, Captain Connelly graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and was commissioned an Ensign in June 1976. In November 1977, he was designated a Naval Aviator. Upon completion of his initial P-3C Orion training at VP-31, he was assigned to VP-48 from June 1978 to June 1981 completing three Western Pacific deployments during his tour. Captain Connelly served on the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) staff from 1981 to 1984 as the Electronic Warfare Programs Analyst in the Systems Analysis Division and as Staff Assistant to the Director, Naval Warfare. During this tour, he received a Master of Arts degree in Government from Georgetown University. In September 1984, Captain Connelly reported as the Assistant Navigator in USS MIDWAY (CV 41) homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. He next served as Assistant Maintenance and Administrative Officers in VP-31 from May 1986 to October 1987. In December 1987, Captain Connelly reported to VP-8 where he completed deployments to NS Rota, Spain and NAS Keflavik, Iceland while serving as Safety Officer, Training Officer and Operations Officer. Assigned to OPNAV from January 1990 to August 1991, he served as Assistant Branch Head of the Western Hemisphere Plans and Policy Branch within the Politico-Military Policy and Current Plans Division. Additionally, he was assigned as the Assistant Branch Head of the East Asia/Pacific Branch and Lead Action Officer for the Philippine Base Re-negotiations. He concluded his tour by serving as Aide and Administrative Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Plans, Policy and Operations) during Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM. Captain Connelly completed a one-year assignment as a National Security Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University. In September 1992, he reported to VP-47 as Executive Officer and assumed command one year later following the squadron's relocation from NAS Moffett Field, California to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Captain Connelly reported to the United States Pacific Fleet staff at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii in September 1994 as the Maritime Aviation Operations Officer. From August 1996 to February 2000, he completed consecutive Executive Officer tours and deployments in USS INCHON (MCS 12), USS ESSEX (LHD 2), and USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD 6). Captain Connelly assumed duties as Commanding Officer in USS BONHOMME RICHARD in April 2000 until relinquishing command in September 2001. His next assignment, as Commander, Amphibious Squadron THREE and the BONHOMME RICHARD Amphibious Ready Group, commenced in December 2001 while deployed in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF). During this assignment, he headed two U.S. Navy and Coalition Task Forces comprised of twenty-three combatant, amphibious, and logistics support ships engaged simultaneously in combat, maritime interception, intelligence collection, and support operations in Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa. Captain Connelly relinquished command of Amphibious Squadron THREE in September 2002 and assumed duties in January 2003 as the Commanding Officer, Pacific Missile Range Facility, located on the island of Kaua'i in Hawaii. Captain Connelly's personal awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit (with one gold star), the Meritorious Service Medal (with three gold stars), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with four gold stars), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various other campaign and service awards..." [25JUN2003]

COOK, PH2 Gerald P. jerry.diane@juno.com "...I served with VP-47 (1969-1972) including the transition to the P-3 with a deployments to NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan (Soviet Ops), NS Sangley Point, Philippines, NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam and NAS Adak, Alaska (OCEAN 2). I flew with a great bunch of Shipmates..." [05JUL2011]

CRAIG, CDR John A. USNR jcraig304@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 (January 2003-June 2005) with CACs 9, 2 and finally CAC-4. Left VP-47 and flew as an instructor pilot VT-2 at NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida. Now flying for United Airlines out of Washington Dulles Airport and living in Shepherdstown, WV..." [02JUL2010]

CRAWFORD, AD1 Rick Retired rickcrawford8251@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-24 (1978-1981), VP-30 (1981-1984), FE School, VP-47 (1985-1989) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-31 (1989-1992) and VP-91 at NAS Moffett Field, California. I'm now employed as a Controller for a company and enjoying the civilian life. Would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 26SEP2018 | E-Mail Updated 19JAN2001 | 10DEC98]

CRITES, ADJ3 Ken toranarrator@earthlink.net "...I served with VP-47 (1965-1968) at NAS Moffett Field, California..." [26OCT2011]

CROSSLEY, Dave dcross@penn.com "...Retired Navy Jan 97. Tours in VP-11 (76-80), VP-47 (81-84), FASO NAS Moffett Field, California (85-86) VP-48 (89-90), VP-46 (91-93), Recruiting District San Fran (94-97). Drop me an e-mail; when I get back from fishing I'll read it..." [30DEC98]


DANIEL, Albert E. lhca5813@att.net "...I served with VP-47 (1965-1966)..." [19APR2014]

DASHER, AT1 Rick rickdasher@yahoo.com "...I served with VQ-1 from 1984-1987 as a ground pounder AT. Went aircrew and served with VAQ-33 as an EP-3A/J IFT from 1988-1991. I transitioned to P-3C UIII and went to VP-45 from 1992-1995. I did an instructor tour at VP-30 from 1996-1999. Transfered to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii for a tour with VP-47 and will retire from there in 2003. Anybody who remembers me, drop me a line..." [03SEP2002]

DAVENPORT, ADC Leif E. daven@whidbey.net "...Served as a Flight Engineer in VP-46 85-89, VP-17 92-94, VP-47 94-95, VP-46 95-97. Flew with a lot of great guys. But I'll never forget my fellow crash test dummies of VP-47 crew 9, thanks guys..." [06MAR98]

DAVIS, Jesse C. jcdavis@tcac.net "...I started my VP career in VP-6 when AEWBarRonPac decomissioned in late 1964. Actually I went directly from BARRONPAC to VP-31 for F/E training prior to checking into VP-6. Myself and ADR1 R. C. Miller were the first P-3 F/Es in VP-6. We brought Buno 150525 back to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, that was our first P-3. I can remember the P2 crewmen climbing out of their aircraft sweating profusely, while we were in air conditioned comfort in the P-3s. I believe that at that time VP-6 was the last VP to fly the P2V-5F aircraft. Any how it was full speed ahead to get ready for a 6 month deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska. We did it and did it well. I left VP-6 in 1967 , went to VR-30 at NAS Alameda, California for one year and then to VP-31 as CNAP F/E evaluator. After a good tour there, I went to VP-19. I joined them in NAS Iwakuni, Japan, in 1971 and left VP-19 in 1977. What a hoot, that was the best squadron in the Navy at that time, at least I think it was. We had a fantastic maintenance department and the CPOs were great. I have many fond memories of VP-19. Would especially like to find out what ever became of AWC Joe Allen. I see so many old Shipmates names in the VP-31 Shipmates listing, many of these were just young petty officers when I was in VP-31 and VP-19, many F/Es that I gave check rides to also. My last VP was in VP-47, it too was a very good squadron. I joined them in NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan in 1978 and retired in 1980. Finished up with 26 years as AFCM. Would like to hear from any who served with me..." [02MAY99]

DAVIS, ADJ Hugh Don forjesus@hctc.net "...I served with VP-47 (Powerplants Shop) from October 1967 to January 1970..." [29MAY2011]

DILLON, Frank Sylvan franksylvan@yahoo.com "...Just wanted everyone know that I'm still around, and would like contact from those in VP-47 from 1983 to 1987..." [15DEC2006]

DILLON, Thomas L. thom.dillon555@gmail.com "...Attended ATN "A" School at NAS Memphis, Tennessee, VP-31 (05/1965) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California and NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-46 (06/1965-06/1969), Communications Instructor (06/1969-11/1970), RP-31 COMNAVAIRPAC (12/1970-05/1974), VP-19 (06/1974-01/1980), NAVPRO Burbank (01/1980-01/1983), VP-50 (02/1983-08/1985), VP-47 (08/1985-09/1985..." [E-Mail Updated 28MAR2019 | 01OCT98]

DOMAGALSKI, Richard R. (Ski) Retired domagals2@aol.com "...I served with VTM-5 NAS Pensacola, Florida from 1946 to 1947, VX-1 Key West, Flordia from 1951 to 1952, ATU-10 and ATU-700 NAS Corpus Christi, Texas from 1952 to 1955, VP-47 and VP-50 NAS Alameda, California from 1955 to 1959, AEW-12 NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from 1960 to 1964, VR-7 NAS Moffett Field, California, and retired in 1965..." [E-MAIL/BIO Updated 06SEP2003 | 03APR99]

DOMINGO, CWO5 Arnel Sto. arnel.stodomingo@navy.mil "...I served with VP-47 (1983-1987) at NAS Moffett Field, California with deployments to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, NSF Diego Garcia and NAF Misawa, Japan..." [04OCT2013]

DODD, AMH2 Bubba "Rickey" rickeydodd86@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (09/1977-03/1982) as a FE at NAS Moffett Field, California and NAS Alameda, California (03/1982-03/1985)..." [E-Mail Updated 02NOV2011 | E-Mail Updated 05OCT2003 | 24DEC99]

DOOD, Rodney roddood@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1993-1996)..." [26FEB2012]

DORPINGHAUS, ABCS(A/C) John "Dutch" Retired dutch@aculink.net "...I am coming to you from "The Land Of The Thunder Snows" Howard, Colorado. (Elevation 7,200') I joined the Navy in 1961 and was stationed at NAAS New New Iberia, Louisiana, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, NAS Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, (I was the beachmaster here working with the P5Ms) USS America CVA-66 (V-1 Div.) (Plank Owner), NAS Norfolk, Virginia., VX-6 with deployments to Christ Church, New Zealand and Antarctica, ( I picked up verious Air Frieght Schools, Loadmaster, and airdrop School) USS Saratoga CVA-60 )V-1 Div.), USS Enterprise CVAN-65 (V-1 Div.), NAVTRAGROUDET Warners Springs, CA. (SERE Instructor), USS Coral Sea CVA-43(V-1 Div.), NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. USS Enterprise CVAN-65(V-1 Div.), VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California with dets to NAS Misawa, Japan - NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, - NAS Adak, Alaska, - NAS Midway Island, NAS Cubi Point, Philippines - & NAS Dallas, Texas. Back to USS Enterprise CVN-65 (V-1 Div.), NAVCRUITDIST St. Louis, MO assigned to NAVCRUIT Stations - Columbia, MO.-Jefferson City, MO.-Mexico, MO.- & Union, MO.-then NAVCRUITDIST, Kansas City, MO. assigned to NAVCRUITSTA Wichita, KS., NSF Diego Garcia, USS Carl Vinson CVA-70 (V-1 Div./Air Dept. LCPO), VT-27 NAS Kingsville, TX where I had a stroke and retired. I forgot to mention NAS Glenview, Illinois where I was sent for Limited duty once..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 19OCT2001 | 19MAR2001]

DOUDNA, AWC Ralph F. Retired ralphdoudna@aol.com "...I am from Maxwell, Nebraska and enlisted in the Navy in Feb 1958 went through boot camp at San Diego, "P" school Norman, ATA school NAS Memphis, Tennessee, was assigned to VP-47 at NAS Alameda, California and flew as an aircrewmen in P5Ms 1&2. VP-47 deployed to Japan 1959-1960 than relocated to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington in mid 1960. Also served in VP-16 (P-3As) NAS Jacksonville, Florida as an AT1 from 1966 to 1967 did a deployment to the NS Sangley Point, Philippines and Vietnam. Served in VP-47 again from 1968 to Dec 1969 (this time flying in P-3B aircraft) durning which time We did another NS Sangley Point, Philippines/Vietnam deployment. Served in the Reserves at NAS Moffett Field, California from Dec 1969 to Nov 1981. Went back on active duty in 1981 and served in VP-4, FASOTRAGRUPAC and VP-1 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Retired from VP-1 as an AWC in July 1994..." [06AUG2000]

DUFFY, Greg chiefduffy@aol.com "...I served in VP-26 '86-'90, VP-30 '90-'94 as an IFT instructor, am now IFT with VP-47 CAC 7..." [23NOV2000]

DUPREY, PR3 John S sarged1sg@yahoo.com "...I was with VP-47 from November 1962 to December 1965. I was in the Parachute loft with L A Harmon AME3, J.M. Doolittle, M.D. Wolfe and M.D. Smith, when we made the WESTPAC Cruise in 64-65. I have been in the Army Reserve for 23 years and am a 1st Sgt in a training company, our mission is to deploy to Ft Sill Okla and train initial entry troops. We just got this toy for Xams and I am having alot of fun with it. Hope some of you Shipmates out there will drop me a E-Mail. What was the name of the Seaplane Tender we had at Da Nang? Does anyone know if the Squardron or the ship got the Navy Combat Action Ribion? Look forward to hearing from you..." [23JAN2000]

DYKE, AVCM(AW) Jeff Van vandykej@vp47.navy.mil "...Reading all the entries about VP-22 sure brought back some great memories for me. I was saddened to read that Rick Horn died. He was a die hard AC/DC and Clint Eastwood fan. I served in VP-17 ('84-'85), VP-22 ('85-89), VAQ-33 ('90-'93), NAVSUBTRACENPAC Pearl Harbor ('93-'96), HM-15 ('96-'99), NRD Seattle/NRS Moses Lake WA ('99-'01). I am currently stationed at MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii serving as the MMCPO for VP-47. I had some of the greatest times of my life in VP-22 and did a lot of growing up as well. Drop me a line if you want to keep in touch, I would love to hear from you..." [21JUL2001]


EASTHAM, Glynn glynn.eastham@compaq.com "...VP-47 Nov64-Jan68, ASWOC NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan Sep75-May78, VP-31/VP-31 DET Alpha May64-OCT64, Sep78-Aug81 and Sep84-Sep87, VP-48 Sep81-Aug84..." [11MAR99]

EBRON, CWO5 William R. Retired wmebron@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (1977) at NAS Brunswick, Maine, VP-30, VP-47, VP-31, VP-1, VP-16 (2002-2004) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida and retired in 2008. I now live in Jacksonville, Florida and would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 06APR2012 | 08OCT99]

ECKHARDT, Charlie ceckhard@gibraltar.k12.wi.us "...I served with VP-47 from 1987 to 1990. I had a great time and made some good friends. I would like to hear from my old Shipmates..." [15MAY2004]

EDGAR, CDR Bill Retired bill@qatworks.com "...I closed RTC Memphis boot camp (last class through) in summer 1973; AW-A school following that at NATTC Memphis; then SERE/DWEST at FASOTRGRUPAC San Diego; VP-31 RAG NAS Moffett Field, California; and VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California 1974-1975 with NAS Agana, Guam / NAS Adak, Alaska split-site deployment as an AW3. Did USCG OCS in 1981 after graduating from Cleveland State; retired as a Coast Guard Commander in 2002. Especially looking for John Cutcher, Mike and Rob Johnson, Mark Williams, Gil Hodges, Steve Hotchkiss but would love to hear from any and all VP-47 shipmates from that era!..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 21APR2005 | 04MAY99]

EDWARD, Dorris c/o his son Mike Tripp mtripp@hotsprings.net "...My father, Dorris Edward Tripp was a member of VP-47 during the Korean War. He flew on the crew of BA1, "The Skippers Barge", BUNO 84682 which crashed in Hong Kong harbor 12/31/51. My fathers best buddy, Jolly W. Britton, took his place on the flight and was killed in the crash. Does anyone know where Jolly is buried or if he has any family still living? I would like to contact any "Eager Beavers" who knew my father {deceased 8/13/95}. Flying with VP-47 was the adventure of his life!..." [22DEC99]

EGGER, Randy randy@ftl.com "...First served with VP-9 Crew 9 from 1982 to 1986. Shore tour with VP-31 from 1986 to 1989. In VP-4 during the transition to P-3C's; VP-46 for a month then VP-47 to finish out my active duty on Holloween 1990 (approprate for me). VP-MAU SEL/RES until decommissioned in 1991; Transfered to VP-91 (SEL/RES). Been there ever since (a slight break for IRR). Awaiting yet another decommissioning. Please feel free to email me, it's always good to hear from friends..." [E-Mail Updated 13NOV2002 | 17FEB98]

ELLINGSWORTH, AK Richard Lee relling3@mchsi.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1955-1957. I served in the squadron as an AK..." [12JAN2003]

ELLIOTT, Mary-Elizabeth ihate_nik@yahoo.com "...I was the second woman assigned to VP-47 (1985 to 1988). I served in command with McHammer and Keith Meinhold..." [28APR2008]

EVANS, AME David J. "Jim" jim7514@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (09/1972-12/1975) working on air conditioning, pressurization and oxygen systems - worked in para riggers shop. Anyone heard from Bowers or Kirchner?..." [31DEC2021]


Memorial Picture "...FAILS, AWCM Ron...Ron passed away on Aug 16 2007. He served with VP-8, VP-30, HSL-32, CV-62, CV-43, CPW-10, VP-4, CPW-2, CPWPAC, VP-47, VX-1, CPRWPAC, and CPRW-2..." Contributed by BARKOW, AW2 Dan danbarkow@cableone.net [08FEB2011]

FAILS, Ron mcpo9876@aol.com "...I served with VP-8, VP-30, HSL-32, CV-62, CV-43, CPW-10, VP-4, CPW-2, CPWPAC, VP-47, VX-1, CPRWPAC, and CPRW-2..." [20MAR2005]

FALLAH, AT2(AW) and AWV2(NAC/AW) Jeremy M. jeremyfallah@gmail.com "...I arrived in Hawaii (VP-9) on Thanksgiving day in 2005 as an undesignated airman, deployed to Qatar a few months later where I struck "AT" and made it first time up. During that deployment I went on det to Djibouti, Africa with, at the time, AT2 Kevin Mullins as my CDI and Senior Chief Ogata as our maintenance Chief. After that deployment I ended up in CMO-2-2’s shooter shack and then volunteered to go to Iraq with VP-47 for the 2007-2008 Tallil Iraq deployment were I spent 8 months. I made CDI while deployed to Iraq and returned home to a 2nd Class crow waiting for me. In April of 2009 I transferred from VP-9 to Aircrew school where I was trained to be an EP-3E EWOP and MTS Op. I was then assigned to VQ-2 and flew over 100 combat recon sorties over Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya as a Biglook / MTS Instructor. I separated from the Navy in April of 2012 and now work at Cape Canaveral Air Force station where I have front row seats to the best rocket launches around...." [08APR2014]

FARMER, Gary L. Gary.Farmer@agai.com or W7mm@aol.com "...I am one of the original cadre of "AW's", converting from AX back in '68. Did tours in FAETUPAC, VP-47, VP-46, VP-31, VP-48, FASOTRAGRUPAC & VP-50 UNTIL RETIRING Sep 86. To all VP, be proud of where you were, it was the best. Wings of Gold are forever..." [09NOV98]

FELIAS, ASC(AW) Rene feliasra@yahoo.com "...Was in VP-47 from 91-96... Presently at Naval Air Facility Misawa, Japan as SE Division LCPO. Would love to hear from ole' friends out there..." [E-Mail Updated 26FEB2002]

FERGUSON, AW2 Charles c.ferguson.1@hotmail.com "...Entered the Navy in March 1973, followed by the usual training (Boot Camp, "A" school in NAS Memphis, Tennessee, SERE School, VP-31 then home to VP-47 (1973-1977). I sat in NAS Memphis, Tennessee to pickup my orders to a Lamps Helo out of NAS Norfolk, Virginia, they asked like three of us to stand by. Was at the very last minute they changed my orders to VP-47, allowing me to serve with the best and brightest the Navy could offer. From CDR Graff on down, everyone excelled at every task we were asked to do. I am very proud to have served with all in those trying times, the deployments, NAS Agana, Guam, NAF Misawa, Japan, and one can never forget NAS Adak, Alaska. Would love to hear from anyone from those glory days. Esp those of Crew-12..." [BIO Updated 28AUG2012 | 24DEC2010]

FIELDS, Ronald J. ronfields@sbcglobal.net "...I was a Flight Engineer with VP-47 1973-1977. I made 2 deployments 1974 to NAS Adak, Alaska and 1976, NAF Misawa, Japan. I was there with the "notoroius" CDR Pete Smith. Presently a system Maint. Controller 737 fleet, United Airlines. San Francisco International Airport..." [07MAY2006]

FISCHER, Rick rfischer@memphis.edu "...I served with VP-47 (1972-1975) at NAS Moffett Field, California as a Naval Flight Officer..." [20SEP2014]

FISHER, ADC(AW/NAC) Brad Retired bradley.s.fisher@lmco.com "...I was a P-3 Flight Engineer from 1977 to 1997. I started out at VP-31 (FE school) 1977 - 1978. From there I went to VP-1 (78 - 81) where I was on crews 6, 8, and 5, VX-1 (81 - 84), VP-47 crew 4 (84 - 87), FWATD (87 - 90), VP-5 (90 - 93), VP-30 (93 - 97) where I retired. I now work for Lockheed Martin developing CBT for C-130J maintenance. Life is good. I miss flying, but not the living around the flight schedule..." [04NOV99]

FITE, CDR Richard T. http://www.navy.mil/homepages/vp-45/xofite.htm "...Commander Richard T. Fite was born in Washington D.C. the son of a career Air Force pilot. He graduated from Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio with a Bachelor of Administration degree in Political Science. Commander Fite received his commission in December 1985 through the Aviation Officer Candidate Program and was designated a Naval Flight Officer in April 1987. In October 1987, he reported to the "Golden Pelicans" of VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. Flying the P-3C Update II Orions, he deployed to NS Rota, Spain and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. During this tour he was designated as an Instructor Tacco and Mission Commander and served as Command Security Manager, Readiness Officer, NFO Training and Assistant Operations Officer. Commander Fite then reported to Navy Recruiting District, Columbus, Ohio in February 1991. He served as the Officer Programs Officer and was the 1992 "Officer Recruiter of the Year." In March 1993, Commander Fite was assigned as Aide and Flag Lieutenant to Commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group Two. He qualified as Flag Tactical Action Officer and completed a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf in support of operations DENY FLIGHT, SHARP GUARD, VIGILANT WARRIOR and SOUTHERN WATCH. Following his disassociated sea tour, Commander Fite reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Washington D.C. in the Aviation Assignment Division as the VP Shore and Sea Detailer in March 1995. In July 1997, Commander Fite reported to the "Golden Swordsmen" of VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. During this tour he served as Tactics Officer, Administrative Officer, and Operations Officer and completed a quad site deployment to NSF Diego Garcia. Commander Fite then reported to Commander, Patrol Wings Pacific as Assistant Chief of Staff for Manpower in February, 1999. Additionally, he took on the role as Assistant Chief of Staff for Naval Activities upon the congressionally mandated closure of NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and the staff's homeport shift to MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. In November 2000, Commander Fite was temporarily assigned in the Aviation Budget and Requirements Office on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations during the Quadrennial Defense Review assessment. In August 2001, he reported to the National War College at Ft McNair, Washington D.C. Upon graduation, he received a Masters of Science Degree in National Security Strategy. In April 2003, he reported to VP-45 as the Executive Officer. Commander Fite's personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, four Navy Commendation Medals, two Navy Achievement Medals and various campaign and unit awards..." [15JUN2003]

FITZGERALD, CDR William A. http://www.navy.mil/homepages/vp-45/cofitz.htm "...Commander Will Fitzgerald graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1985 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. He reported to VT-3 in NAS Pensacola, Florida for primary flight training and then to VT-31 in NAS Corpus Christi, Texas for intermediate and advanced flight training. In February 1987 he completed flight school on the Commodore's List with Distinction and was designated a Naval Aviator. In September 1987, he reported to the Red Lancers of VP-10 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. During this tour he earned his initial qualifications as Patrol Plane Commander, Mission Commander, Instructor Pilot, and Formation Pilot in the P-3C Update II.5 aircraft and completed deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NS Rota, Spain, and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. He served as the Human Resources Officer, Phase/Corrosion Branch Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, Quality Assurance Officer, and Pilot NATOPS Officer. Commander Fitzgerald next reported to the FRS, VP-30 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida, in February 1991 for instructor pilot duty. During this tour he served as PR/AME Branch Officer, Pilot Tactics Officer, Assistant Fleet IUT Officer, Fleet Formation Instructor Pilot, and Pilot IUT & Standardization Officer. In February 1994, Commander Fitzgerald was assigned to USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) as a Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer. During this tour he served as V-4 Division Officer, V-2 Division Officer, and Air Department Administrative Officer. While aboard, he earned designation as Officer of the Deck (In-Port), Helicopter Control Officer, and Conning Officer Alongside. Commander Fitzgerald next reported to the staff of the Commander in Chief, Atlantic Fleet in April 1996. He served in the Plans and Policy Directorate (N5) as the Deputy Director for Plans and Policy for the North Atlantic, Western and Central Europe. In April 1997, Commander Fitzgerald reported to the Golden Swordsmen of VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. He served as the Safety/NATOPS Officer and Operations Officer during a West Pac deployment to NSF Diego Garcia and the Arabian Gulf. In June of 1998, Commander Fitzgerald reported to the OPNAV staff at the Pentagon as the Deputy Executive Assistant to the Director, Air Warfare (N88). In July 2000, following his Pentagon tour, Commander Fitzgerald attended the National Defense University, Industrial College of the Armed Forces and received a Masters of Science degree in National Resource Strategy. In March 2002, he reported to VP-45 as the Executive Officer. He assumed command of VP-45 in April 2003. Commander Fitzgerald is authorized to wear the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy Achievement Medal (two awards), the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal as well as various service and unit awards..." [15JUN2003]

FLORENCE, AO Richard L. charnan1953@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VP-47 from 1950-1952 as 2nd ordnanceman on BA3. PPC LT James Amos was the best hands down! When I spoke to him on the phone, the conclusion of the conversation was from the bow to the pilot Mr. Amos, "Buoy made sir!" Mr. Amos's reply was "cut engines!" Thank you for keeping the memory of the Patrol Squadrons alive..." [E-Mail Updated 11FEB2007 | E-Mail Updated 24NOV2004 | 21FEB2002]

FLOYD, AE1 Dock F. Retired dfloyd.usnret@rocketmail.com "...I served with VP-31 (1979-1982), VP-4 (1982-1985), VP-31 (1985-1989), VP-48 (1989-1991), VP-47 (1991-1993) and VRC-30 (1993-1995) where myself as an "all systems QAR and CNAP's BUNO 150526 retired from service. They gave me the PSA airline twin seat that was used for additional seats on board. Hoping to get some stories from old Shipmates like CDRWeller, AVCM James, AVCM Padilla, AE1 Wiley, AE1 Kish, all the AE's, ADC Soria, mech's, airframers, tweets, AME1 Gunabe, AD1Sison, AE1 Enos(LT), AO's, PR's, AE2 McIntyre and all the Filipino's who shared the lumpia, fried rice, pancit, San Miguel beer and so on. Sorry to whom I did not mention because of memory lose. Email me and I'll be cured..." [15DEC2010]

FORD, AMSC Ken (Henry) Retired POrion3@aol.com "...I know its mispelled, but someone already has the address.I was a flight engineer with VP-46 (1968-1972), VP-31 (1972-1974), VP-47 (1974-1978), Instructor at NAS Memphis, Tennessee (1976-1980) VQ-1 (1980-1984) NAS Memphis, Tennessee and finally a Navy recruiter (1984-1988). Would like to here from anyone inthose squadrons..." [E-Mail Updated 16JAN99 | 20DEC98]

FORD, Kirby kirbyford2003@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1972-1975) and worked in the AO Shop..." [19JUN2014]

FRANKLIN, AX2(AC) Jim jimfrank886@mchsi.com "...I served with VP-47 (1964-1966) and flew as a Radio Operator with Crew-5 (P5M) and Crew-7 (P-3A BUNO: 152165). Our pilot was CDR A. L. Jansen (the last year or so), Barney Leighteigh (Plane Captain/FE), Pete Chrisman (Ordnance) and Craig Casey (JEZ)..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 11OCT2016 | E-Mail Updated 24APR2015 | E-Mail Updated 08JAN2012 | E-Mail Updated 14SEP2004 | E-Mail Updated 16APR2002 | E-Mail Updated 26DEC2001 | E-Mail Updated 21AUG2001 | E-Mail Updated 10APR2001 | 21JUN99]

FREY, Jeff "Ace" p3superb@aol.com "...I'm a career Hawaii P-3 Airframer. I served with VPU-2 (1988 to 1992), VP-30 VR CINCPACFLT Executive Transport (1992 to 1995), VP-47 (1995 to 2000), VPU-2 (2000 to 2002), VP-30 VR COMPACFLT Executive Transport (2002 to Present)..." [BIO Updated 09APR2004 | 19FEB2000]

FROST, CDR Paul J. http://homepages.rootsweb.com/~uscnrotc/Decades/d-1980/c1983bio/b83FRO.htm "...BS Business Administration Finance 1983. Warfare Specialty Flight Officer - Commissioned Ensign USN 13 May 1983 - Industrial College of the Armed Forces ICAP - National Defense University 2003 - Military History: Flight School: VT-10 / NATU Mather Airforce Base, Winged out October 1984, VP-30 - Student P-3 Fleet Replacement Squadron - November 1984 - May 1985, VP-24 - Pilot - May 1985 - January 1989, VP-30 - Instructor - January 1989 - February 1992, CV-64 - Communications Officer - May 1992 - May 1994, VP-47 - Department Head - November 1994 - September 1996, CPRFL - Training Officer - October 1996 - May 1999, VP-30 - Executive Officer - May 1999 - Jun 2000, VP-5 - Executive Officer then Commanding Officer June 2000 - June 2002, and ICAF - Aug 2002 - Jun 2003..." [21JUN2003]

FULGIUM, AT1 MICHAEL D. Fulgium_Michael%PAX6@mr.nawcad.navy.mil "...JUST SAYING HELLO TO ALL MY SHIPMATES IN VP-47, AND TO LET YOU GUYS KNOW THAT THIS IS NOT A MISPRINT, IT REALLY IS "AT1". DROP ME A LINE AND LET ME KNOW HOW YOU ARE DOING..."


GACUSANA, Joe anjgac@bellsouth.net "...I served in three fine VP Squadrons while I flew over 2,500 hours in a P-3. I would like to know if there are any of my old crewmembers out there from VP-17 Crew 2/1 1989-92 or from VP-22 Crew 8 1992-94 and last but not least VP-47 Crew 5 from 1994-96. If any of you are out there give me a shot and an old BB Stacker will be happy to repley Bouy Away. For that matter if you were part of those Squadrons during that time gimme a line..." [E-Mail Updated 19JUL99 | 26JUL98]

GALLOWAY, ATCS Creighton "Craig" Retired c3gallo56@charter.net "...I served with VP-48, VP-47, VP-31, CPRW-10 at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1976 until decommissioning of VP-31 in 1993, VP-26 from August 1993 until August 1996 and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Retured September 1998. Would enjoy hearing from old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 17MAR2011 | E-Mail Updated 27DEC2002 | E-Mail Updated 02NOV98 | 04MAR98]

GAMBILL, Edward go-gambill-go@juno.com "...ATC(AW) Ed Gambill (brother of ADCS Jerry Gambill, P-3 Flight Engineer retired): P-3 In-Flight Tech, VP-47 1987-91, VP-31 Instructor IFT 1991-93. When VP-31 decommissoned at NAS Moffett Field, California, I finished my shore tour in1994 ground pounding at VP-30 NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Overseas at FMP MOCC MED NAS Sigonella, Sicily 1994-97. Lots of exciting detatchments to Bosnia, Africa and elsewhere. Back for more shore duty as of Dec 1997 in VP-30 instructing IFT's again. Would like to hear from Shipmates, friends and others..." [25MAY98]

GANT, AWC Wayne Retired wgant44@cs.com "...I am looking forward to getting in contact with Shipmates with whome I have served in the past. I was with the origional group of AWs that converted in 1968. I was an AX2 in VP-47 at that time. I was in VP-47 from april 1967 to about September 1969. I then went to AX B school and then returned to VP-47. I was in crew 1, 4 and 11. I was an a school instructor from November 1970 to November 1973. I was at TSC NAS Sigonella, Sicily from April 1974 to June 1977. I was on th NIMITZ 77-78 and ASWOC Dam Neck when I retired in 1982. I would love to hear from anyone that might have served with me..." [ICQ# 4185337] [E-Mail Updated 31JUL2002 | 04JAN98]

GARCIA, David mexpac70@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1990 through 1993 and VP-91 in 1993. It would be great to hear from my old VP-47 Shipmates. I had some of my best times with that squadron. I was in CAC 6, SS-3 operator with the name "mexpac" I hope to hear from some of you people..." [E-Mail Updated 23JUN2003 | 01FEB2001]

GARCIA, AWC Russ argeepar3@yahoo.com "...Served in VP-50 1963-65, VP-47 1968-70, VP-4 1970-72, NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee 1972-76, VP-50 (again) 1977-80, VP-31 CNAP 1980-83, retired 1983..." [01FEB2009]

GACILAN, ADCS(AW) Henry G. Retired henry.gacilan.ctr@navy.mil "...I served with VP-47 (04/1983-04/1988) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-40 (03/1991-03/1993) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-40 (03/1993-04/1997) at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, VP-4 (11/2000-11/2004) at MCBH Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and VPU-2 (11/2004-07/2007) at MCBH Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Deployments included NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, NAF Misawa, Japan, NSF Diego Garcia, BIOT, Philippines, NAS Adak, Alaska, NSA Bahrain, Oman, Kandahar and Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. Detachments included Australia, La Reunion, Jehdda,,Singapore, India, Masihra, Thailand, Kenya, Key West and Panama Canal..." [BIO Updated 25MAY2012 | 24MAY2012]

GILLIAM, Robert flooder@earthlink.net "...Served as Aircrewman on "Rainproof 8" in VW-1 from 11/66 to 4/68. Detached to Chu Lai for several deployments with stopoffs at NS Sangley Point, Philippines coming and going (Mary-Tees in Cavite City where are you?). Was ATR2 and CIC operator. Later transferred to VP-47 in NAS Moffett Field, California and rode a P-3 back to Vietnam until my discharge. Crew 8 had the "Lil Stinker" Skunk Logo on the nose..." [24APR99]

GOODMAN, AWCS Edward E. "Ed" Retired Shipmate Pix edusnret@gmail.com "...Greetings to all the Shipmates I've been privileged to serve with over the years. I'd enjoy hearing from any and all. I joined the Navy in December of 1960. Upon completion of recruit training in San Diego I attended Aviation Electronics "A" school at NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee as an ATS, a rating that later combined with others to become AX. While there I was also a member of the "Flying Rifles" Navy drill team. I was then assigned to VP-47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, flying as crew 9's Panel Operator in P5M, later SP5B, aircraft BUNO: 135474. We deployed to NS Sangley Point, Philippines in 1964 and the memories are as fresh today as then. What a wonderful place. My enlistment was up at end of the deployment to NS Sangley Point, Philippines in 1964; I left the service only to rejoin in 1966 and be assigned to VP-22 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, first as a groundpounder then as a member of crew 10. I became a plank owner in the AW rating in 1968 but then transferred to NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee once again to attend AVI "B" school, a condition of my reenlistment contract. My next assignment was to ASCAC at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. The command decommissioned during my tour of duty and I transferred to ASCAC in COMASWGRU-3 aboard USS Hornet then USS Ticonderoga. From February 1974 until November 1977 I was assigned to VP-17 Crew 11 flying P-3's out of NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. While there I held assignments in QA, as instructor in NATOPS, then as AW division chief. Next I "vanished" into the unknown for awhile (1977 to 1982) while attached to NMPC S/D components. I finished my active duty career in 1985 while assigned to staff of CTF-67, homeported in NAF Naples, Italy. I made many a good friend while working with the VP squadrons who inchopped into the Mediterranean as well as staff from NS Rota, Spain, NAS Sigonella, Sicily and Souda Bay, Crete. I would like very much to hear from anyone who was there. I currently reside in Olympia, WA and work in Seattle, at least until years end when I retire once again..." [E-Mail Updated 01MAR2024 | PIX Updated 29SEP2013 | 27APR2004]

GOODMAN, Jay vs33issm@vs33.nasni.navy.mil "...VP-47 from 83-85. Former AX3, now working Vikings at NAS North Island, San Diego, California..." [10AUG98]

GORMAN, ATC Paul Retired vw55@gmpexpress.net "...I was an IFT with VP-47 Crew 8 from 1982 to 1985, IFT Instructor and CNAP Evaluator with VP-31 from 1986 to 1989, IFT with VP-4 Crew 11 from 1990 to 1993 and retired as ATC with Force Warfare at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in 1997. I have been working as a System Safety Engineer on the V-22 and H-1 Upgrades programs. Would love to hear from fellow Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 12JUL2004 | 05JAN2002]

GRAHAM, LCDR Dennis L. Retired denlingrah@aol.com "...I served with VP-28 (1957-1960), VX-1 (1961-1966), VP-47 (1966-1969), FAESUTRAGRP (1969-1972), FASO U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand (1972-1974), VP-40 (1974-1976), VP-31 (1976-1979) and ComPatWingsPac (1979-1981). My Naval Career included the following rates/ranks: HSAR-AXC, WO1-CWO-3, ENS-LCDR..." [01JUL2014]

GRAVERSEN, C. O. (aka Gravy or Spoon) CGraversen@AOL.COM "...I served in VP-47 l952-l955 as an AT. Flew as a radio & radar operator on two tours of duty to NAS Iwakuni, Japan. Fact is I should have been on BA-1 that crashed into Yaku Shima Island on June 9, l954 killing all on board. The plane was enroute to Hong Kong for a week of R&R. The reason I wasn't on it is that I didn't have enough money for a week of R&R so I backed out at the last minute. I was on the first PBM (84775) that found the wreckage. If it had been 200 feet to the right or left or higher it would have missed this Island. Sad day for all. Would be great to hear from any old Shipmates..." [04FEB2000]

GRAY, Richard rich@65inamerica.com "...I served with VP-47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington from 1959 to 1964. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [22JUN2010]

GREELY, AO1 Bruce Retired alffer@aol.com "...I served with VP-30 (school) and then to VP-47 from 1975 to 1979, NAS Alameda, California Weapons station from 1979 to 1982, VP-44 from 1982 to 1985, Recruiting Command from 1985 to 1987, USS Roosevelt (CVN-71) on and off from 1985 to 1992. Now living in Montana..." [14JUN2004]

GREELY, ATN2 Kenneth "Ken" kagreely@gmail.com "...I served with AirBarSRon-2 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington as Radio Operator and Submarine Detection Equipment Operator and performed maintainance on the P5M and VP-47 (1961-1962) at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington with a deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska..." [BIO Updated 02AUG2014 | 09FEB2013]

GREEN, Charles R. charleygreen@charleygreen.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1959-1961 as an ordnanceman and was assigned to Flight Crew #8. We were stationed at NAS Alameda, California and after returning from NAS Iwakuni, Japan in 1960, the squadron was relocated to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. I have not heard from anyone (nor stayed in touched) since leaving the navy for college and other career paths. Good times, good men and a great experience..." WebSite: http://www.charleygreen.com/ [22MAR2006]

GRENDAHL, Jeff "Lumpy" jegren@aaahawk.com "...It's been a while gentlemen. I was with VP-47 from 1981-84, flightcrew AO. Flew mostly with crew 6 and some with crew 7. My TACCO was LT. Brittle, NAV was "touch N go" Joe Barado, Pilots CDR. Talley, Lt. Deck. Sensor operators - Richards & Fryman. Radar was Jordan, IT was Bissett. Anyone of you still around? I was in contact with Jordan at one time and IFT Gibbons in Jacksonville. Anyone from that time frame please feel free to email me..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 29NOV2005 | E-Mail Updated 21FEB2000 | 22NOV98]

GRIEFF, Kimberly nacamoke@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California from 1985 to 1988. I'm looking to talk to some old Shipmates especially Master Chief Kazcynski (name is probably misspelled)..." [E-Mail Updated 20SEP2003 | 24APR2000]

GRIGGS, AO1(AW) Forrest Retired fgriggs@sprynet.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1979 to 1981 and VP-26 from 1990 to1 1994. Would love to hear from any Shipmates from either squadron. Now working for the BLM as a geologist (see what happens when you call us rocks!). Sorry if you sent mail to the trex e-mail address, it is no longer active (I graduated). Drop a line anytime..." [Updated E-Mail/BIO 17FEB2004 | 01FEB99]

GRUBEL, AOC Erik erik.grubel@navy.mil "... I served in VXN-8 (91-93), VP-4 (93-97), COMPATRECONFORPAC (97-2000), VP-47 (2000-2004), NAVAIR NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (04-present). To all you non-believers....Yes I am still in the Navy. I look forward to hearing from past Shipmates, and hearing where they are at now..." [24FEB2005]

Memorial Picture "...GUZZO, AT1 Peter S....Just wanted to pass on the obituary of AT1 Pete Guzzo (VP-4, VP-47 and VP-48, ). I served with Pete in the early 1980's and was sad to hear of his passing. GUZZO Peter S., 49, of Spring Hill, FL died on Thursday July 24, 2008. Mr. Guzzo was born in Passaic, NJ, lived in Lyndhurst for 20 years then California for 10 years and he was a Current resident of Spring Hill, FL for the past 19 years. He was a Navy Veteran who served in The Gulf War (1982-92). During his US Navy career he served as an AT2/AC in Crew 11 with (VP-4). He worked as a Computer Consultant, a private pilot, and was an avid coin collector. Peter was the beloved son of Salvatore M. Guzzo of Lakewood and the late Florence N. (nee Walz) Guzzo (1997), loving brother of Anthony Guzzo and his wife, Michele of Lyndhurst and Carol Ann Guzzo and her husband, Craig Flug of Oakland, and dear uncle of Anthony, Lauren, Rachel, Mia Guzzo and Christopher Flug. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from Nazare Memorial Home, Inc., 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst on Thursday, July 31, 2008 at 8:30 AM then to Our Lady Mount Carmel Church, Lyndhurst where at 9:30 AM a Funeral Mass. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Visiting hours Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM. In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to: V.A. Outpatient Clinic, 9912 Little Road, New Port Richy, FL 34654, Attn. Jeanne R. Botz..." Contributed by OSBORNE, AT1(AW) Mark Retired oriontk@att.net [17AUG2010]

GUZZO, AT1 Peter S. psguzzo@hotmail.com "...VP-4 was my first squadron in 1983 then flew CODs out of North Island from 1986-89...then VP-48 from 1989-90...VP-47 from 1990-92..." [E-Mail Updated 14NOV2004 | E-Mail Updated 16JUN2001]


Memorial Picture "...HACKER, REAR ADMIRAL Benjamin Thurman...(VP-10, VP-21, VP-24, VP-31, VP-47, NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, NAS Brunswick, Maine, NAS Moffett Field, California and NAF Naples, Italy) - Rear Admiral Benjamin T. Hacker - Rear Admiral Benjamin T. Hacker, USN (Ret.), age 68, of Norfolk, VA, passed away on December 28, 2003 at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Born in Washington, DC, he was a graduate of Wittenburg University in Springfield, OH. After completing Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, FL, he was commissioned Ensign in 1958. He was selected for flag rank in the US Navy in 1980, and assumed duties as Commander U.S. Military Enlistment Processing Command with headquarters in Fort Sheridan, IL. In 1982, he became Commander Fleet Air Mediterranean; Commander Maritime Surveillance and Reconnaissance Forces, Sixth Fleet; and Commander Maritime Air Forces Mediterranean with headquarters in Naples, Italy. After retiring from the United States Navy in 1988...http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/washingtonpost/obituary.aspx?n=benjamin-t-hacker&pid=1746775 - December 31, 2003..." Contributed by GOODMAN, AWCS Edward E. "Ed" edusnret@gmail.com [29JUN2012]

HACKER, REAR ADMIRAL Benjamin Thurman http://www.quarterdeck.org/book/cencoms/hacker.html "...Rear Adm. Benjamin Thurman Hacker was born in Washington, D.C., in September. 19, 1935. Completing most of his high school in Daytona Beach, Fla., He attended the University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio and Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. He graduated 1 June, 1957 with a bachelor of arts degree in Science. Upon completion of Aviation Officer Candidate School at Pensacola, Fla., he as commissioned an ensign in September, 1958. He was designated a Naval flight Officer on June 7, 1960. He served with VP-10 and VP-21 from June, 1960 to June, 1963. On March 19, 1960, he was promoted to lieutenant junior grade and in 1963, he reported the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., where he completed the Engineering Science Curriculum. He was promoted to lieutenant on October 1, 1962. In 1964, he reported to VP-31, NAS Moffett Field, California., where he served as personnel officer and a flight and ground instructor in the P-3A aircraft. He attended Fleet Sonar School, Key West, Fla. in June, 1966 and in August, he reported to the NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, where he served as operations officer. In 1967, he was assigned to the U.S. Naval facility, Barbados, West Indies as executive officer. He became commanding officer of that station in 1968. He was promoted to lieutenant commander at this duty station. In 1970, Rear Adm. Hacker reported to VP-47, NAS Moffett Field, California. During this tour, he completed numerous deployments in the P-3C Aircraft to NAS Adak, Alaska and the Western Pacific. He was promoted to commander at VP-47. In 1972, he established the Naval ROTC Unit at Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, Fla., and served as the first professor of Naval Science and commanding officer of this unit. He reported to VP-24, NAS Jacksonville, Florida, in October, 1973. He served for one year as executive officer, prior to assuming command in November, 1974. During this tour, the squadron completed deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and was heavily tasked in major exercises in the Northern and Central Atlantic. From 1975 to 1977, he was assigned to the Bureau of Naval Personnel as director, Equal Opportunity Divisions and special assistant to the Chief of Naval Personnel for Minority Affairs, Washington, D.C. He became a captain on September 1, 1977. In June, 1978, he completed studies in National Security Policy at the Industrial College of the Armed forces, and earned a Master of Science Degree in Business Administration from the George Washington, University. In August, 1978, he was assigned as commanding officer of NAS Brunswick, Maine and in August, 1980, he assumed duties as commander, U.S. Military Enlistment Processing Command with headquarters in Fort Sheridan, Ill. On September 1, 1980, he was designated a rear admiral while serving in this billet. In 1982, he reported for duties as commander Fleet Air Mediterranean; commander, Maritime Surveillance and Reconnaissance forces, U.S. Sixth fleet; and commander, Maritime Air forces, Mediterranean, with headquarters in NAF Naples, Italy. He assumed duties as director, Total Force Training and Education Division (OP-11) on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations in October, 1984. In May, 1986, he was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Education honoris causa by the George Washington University, Washington, D.C.. Rear Adm. Hacker became commander, NTC in August, 1986. following NTC, he became commander, Naval Base, San Diego. He holds the Defense Superior Service Medal; the Legion of Merit; the Meritorious Service Medal; the Navy Unit Commendation; the National Defense Service Medal; and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Cuba)..." [22JUN2003]

HAGEMANN, CWO2 Daryl HAGS31@hotmail.com "...I served with the MAD FOX's as a Instructor Flight Engineer from 92-94. I have also served in VP-16, VP-30, VP-46, and now going to VP-47. I'm glad to know that Lance Lewis and Ralph Torres are still alive. See ya in the fleet..." [22APR98]

HALLINAN, Nick Sr. nhallinan@dc.rr.com "...I got into P2VFDs with VC-5 NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan as Flightcrew PC/Engineer. We dropped the Firebee Drones from 1969 to 1973. I got into the VP community with VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California as Power Plants Supervisor from 1975 to 1979..." [26NOV2006]

HANCOCK, ADC(AW) Robert L. rlhnjh@earthlink.net "...I'm just hoping to make contact with OLD Shipmates from the 1970's thru 1991. I served with VP-17, NARF NAS Alameda, California Flight Test, VP-31, VP-47, VP-40 and NAMTRADET NAS Moffett Field, California in my 22 year career. My most exciting P-3 flight was during a trip home from deployment we lost three engines due to an icing SNAFU. Anyone remember that?..." [16MAR2004]

HANNUM, Tammy tammylynnbaxter@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1984 to 1989. I would love to hear from any old friends..." [04APR2009]

HARRISON, AT2 Lisa lislynhar@yahoo.com "...My first squadron was VP-19 (Big Red) and I was there from 1990 to decomm. I wish I had had more time with the folks in VP-19, as I felt like they were the greatest and a very tightknit group. After decommisioning I went to VP-47 until '95. I had a great time in 47 also and would love to reconnect with some old friends. After VP-47 I did instructor duty in NAS Memphis, Tennessee and then NAS Pensacola, Florida and got out of the Navy in '98. I spent two year in NAS Sigonella, Sicily where I ran into a few friends and now live in Tampa, Fl and work as a training specialist. (I was an AT2 in the Navy, by the way). I have a long list of people I would love to hear from, but three of the hardest to locate are probably going to be AE Juan Martinez, who was in VP-47 forever then went to AIMD in San Diego, PR Jodie Biser- she was also in VP-47 a very long time; and Robin Anderson who was an AT in VP-31 and was still living in the Bay Area when I last talked to her. If anyone can help me locate these folks I would really appreciate it..." [23OCT2001]

HARTZELL, AZCS Doug d_k_h@hotmail.com "...I was VP-47 as an AZ1 at NAS Moffett Field, California in the late 70's and transfered to VP-31. Now employed as an Environmental Analyst with Aerojet in Sacramento and retired since 1992..." [20AUG98]

HARTZOG, Malcolm autiger@usa.com "...I served with VP-47 (1973-1976) at NAS Moffett Field, California..." [26JAN2012]

HEARTHER, LT Bill "Heater" hearther@aol.com "...Hey Goldenswordsmen (VP-47)! I am currently the PPC of Combat Aircrew 10. We just returned from our NSF Diego Garcia Multi-Site Deployment (Nov'97-Jun'98). The squadron is currently "Ramping" up for RIMPAC'98. Personal History-USNA '92 Grad, Winged May'95, VP-30 Jun'95-Jan'96, VP-47 Feb'96-Present. Deployments-May'96-Nov'96; NAS Misawa, Japan/ NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan; Crew 4, Nov'97-Jun'98; Diego/Arabian Gulf; Crews 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, and 10..." [22JUN98]

HEFEL, RAY rhefster@aol.com "...I served in VP-47 form 92-97 and it was a memorable one as some people know and am sure can relate to. Hope you all now serving have fun and remember shore duty is always better..." [21MAY98]

HENSHAW, AO1 Bob bob_henshaw@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-46 and VP-47 from 1959 to 1963. We transistioned from the P5M's to the P2V. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 18FEB2020 | 24NOV98]

HILDEBRAND, John E. (Hilde) jehildebrand@woh.rr.com "...I served with VP-47 as a Sensor 1 "jezz" operator from October 1994 to August 1999. I am now a firefighter/paramedic. Wanted to give a shout out to all of the VP-47 Shipmates I have had the pleasure of knowing and flying with. A special message to the crew of Crew-9. I think about you often and hope you are all doing well. Would love to hear from you. Landlocked in Dayton Ohio..." [10JUN2006]

HITE, D. G. "Duffy" PRYYMATE@AOL.COM "...I served with VP-47 1963-1966 as an AX3. NAS Whidbey Island, Washington on SP-5S. NAS Moffett Field, California on P-3S. any Blue Whales out there?..." [04SEP2000]

HOKANSON, LCDR Andy Retired andyhokanson@sprintmail.com "...VP-49 1958-59 ATAN-ATR2, NESEP 1959-63, VP-49 1964-66 LTJG-LT, VP-30 1966-68 LT, USS Bennington 1969 LT, USS Hornet 1970 LT, NAS Adak, Alaska 1971 LT, USNPGS 1971-72 LT, COMPATWINGSPAC 1973-74 LCDR, VP-47 1975-77 LCDR... I would like to hear from old Shipmates..." [BIO Updated 23NOV2000 | 21NOV2000]

HOFFMAN, ATCS Gail Supertweet@aol.com "...I served with VP-9 from 1989-1991, VP-31 from 1991-1993, VP-47 from 1993-1997, and am currently stationed at VX-1...I picked up ATCS in 2001 and I'm currently serving in tailhooks of all things. I'm now with VFA-15 out of Oceana. I definitely miss the VP life. I'm now stationed with VAW-120 NAS Norfolk, Virginia..." [BIO Updated 10MAR2004 | BIO Updated 03MAY2002 | 18NOV98]

HOGLUND, AW1(AW/NAC) Chris "hogie" hogluncj@cprfp.navy.mil "...I fell from the nest and learned to fly in VP-47, literally. I served in VP-47 from April 1988 through July 1992 as SS-3 on CAC 5&10 (long live pirate ASW). Had many great times, and many beers with stops in NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan (1989), NAS Adak, Alaska (1990), and NAS Misawa, Japan (1992). Made the best of friends, many of which are still great friends. Does "Mole", "Hammer", "J.C.", & "Tiberious" ring any bells? I've since moved on to Wing 10 ASWOC/TSC after VP-47, working in the analysis shop. Half way throught that tour in December 1993 the Wing, VP-40 & VP-46 moved to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. In September 1995 I transfered to VP-1 who also moved to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington via NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Had some good flying with that squadron. One NAS Misawa, Japan and two NSF Diego Garcia/Gulf deployments with VP-1. In March 2000 I transfered to COMPATRECONFORPAC, MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii where now I am the WTU SS-3 Instructor. WTU is formerly TTT. I will never forget the great friends and fun times I had while in VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California (should have never moved). I would like to hear from any of the old VP-47 family. Two things I learned while in VP-47, the meaning of life and that Dirt-Bags RULE!..." [28APR2000]

HOLCOMB, L. J. "Roy" RH5906@worldnet.att.net "...Served with VP-47 from 1955 through 1960--reported aboard as AT-2 Departed as AT-1. Have pictures and cruise books that bring back lots of good memories. Flew as radioman first tech on various crews. Would like to chat with any former Crew or Squadron personel. Served with VP-7 from 1963 through 1970. Reported aboard as AXC(A) AC Departed as AWCS. Flew with a variety of crews prior to going into Quality Control. Have many pictures and crews books from that period..." [30JAN2000]

HOLE, AWC Bob Retired bob@bugorama.com "...I served with VP-26 from 1960-1963, VP-23 from 1963-1965, COMFAIRALASKA from 1966-1967, VP-31 from 1967-1971, VP-47 from 1971-1975, and FASO from 1976-1978..." [E-Mail Updated 29MAY2003]

HOLLENBECK, Bill billnkar@aol.com "...I was in VP 47 from '61 to '64. I was an AT and flew the "panel" position in RD11, known as "Seashell11"..." [21JAN99]

HOLMAN, Bob Rtholmanjr@aol.com "...I was in VP-48 from late 89 till Decom. I was in Crew 10 during the NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan/ NAS Cubi Point, Philippines deloyment. I was the Nav also on Crew 6 with Rick Power R the D. After Decom went to VP-47 along with Kevin Hendricks..." [19MAY98]

HOLMES, Ken kholmes@direcway.com "...I served with VP-47 from April 1971 to January 1975. The only survivor of the NASA crash, Bruce Mallibert, was a personal friend (SEE: In Memorial for lost friends April 12, 1973). I knew and flew with all aboard. I was on watch at our NAS Agana, Guam detachment and on the phone with the D.O. at NAS Moffett Field, California when the crash occured. A sad day..." [04DEC2003]

HOLT, Ken kaholt66@hotmail.com "...I served in VP-2 from 8/65 - 5/67. I was an AZ3 at the time, working in Maintenance Control as Logs and Records keeper. I did the '66 deployment to NAS Iwakuni, Japan and was on the first Det to Viet Nam and stayed there from 5/66 to 8/66, worked nights and rode shotgun for the busses picking up the crews. At any rate, I got out of the navy in May '67 and stayed out for three and a half years. When I came back to the navy in Sept '70, I changed my rate to AE and went to AE-"A" school in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Upon completion of training there and P-3 training at NAS Moffett Field, California (NAMTRADET 1012), I went to VP-22 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. I stayed in VP-22 from '71 to '73. I made AE-2 in VP-22 and made the '72 Naha Okinawa deployment. That was the era of "Canadian Geese", when Cdr. Canada was the C.O.. I worked for AE1 Jim Watt at the time and then, AE-2 Jack With. We had a real good crew of AEs back then. I remember Jeff Powers, Bob Driscoll, Al Ferguson, AEC Pointer and several others that I remember their faces but can't think of their names. I had a good buddy named Jeff Kephart (AD2) that I've been trying to locate for years, so if anyone knows how I can contact him, please let me know. When I left VP-22 in July '73, I went to AV-I "B" school in NAS Memphis, Tennessee and after that I was sent to USS Ranger (CV-61) for two years as ship's company in AIMD. I made AE-1 while attached to Ranger. After a good tour on Ranger I went to VA-121 in NAS Lemoore, California until they disestablished and I was sent to VA-122, TAD to AIMD. I swapped orders with another AE in AIMD and took his orders to VR-30, NAS Alameda, California, where I was the Electric shop supervisor / Maintenance Control watchstander. When the Squadron changed home ports to San Diego, I terminated my shore duty and went to VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California (after FRAMP training with VP-31) and I was the AE Shop Supervisor. We deployed to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan in '79 and had an aircraft experience three engine shut down on the transpac back to NAS Moffett Field, California. I believe that was RD-11, with T. J. Templeton as the F/E on board. I made AEC and I was made the AV/ARM Division Chief. We deployed to NAS Misawa, Japan in February of '81, that was one cold SOB. I worked Maintenance Control (Early Crew) for the rest of my time in the Squadron. In May '82 I went to Instructor Training in San Diego and then went to NAMTRADET 1012, "Orion University" at NAS Moffett Field, California. I was the AE Phase Chief and I also taught the P-3C "O" level Electrical Systems course and the LTN-72 "O" level maintenance. I was the Assistant Aircraft Division Chief too. When I left NAMTRADET 1012, I went to VP-19 for my last year in the Good 'Ole Nav. I was the Expediter and Maintenance Control Chief and made a deployment back to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and I left the Squadron there and came back to NAS Moffett Field, California to "Muster Out" and retired August '86. Since that time, I was a NAESU Tech Rep at NAS Moffett Field, California for 9 years, spent one year at NADEP NAS Alameda, California in the ARIES II Modification section, working in engineering, and I'm currently working for the FAA as an Aviation Safety Inspector in San Francisco Certificate Management Office, where we manage the operating certificate for United Airlines. I've just recently discovered this web site and I see a lot of names of people from the past that I'm going to contact, so if any old "Shipmates" out there want to contact me, please do. I don't have an e-mail address at home yet, but when I do, I'll let you know..." [E-Mail Updated 06APR99 | 17MAR99]

HOLTON, AX3 Raymond M. "Bubbles" rayholtonray@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 (1962-1965) working mainley on the MAD gear, maintenance and in flight calabrations. I plan on attending the April 2012 Reunion. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 29APR2012 | E-Mail Updated 15DEC2011 | 03MAY2011]

HORVATH, Mike Retired whidbey_mike@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1975-1980) as an "I" level tech and then IFT, NAval Air Mainenance TRAining GRoUup DETachment (NAMTRAGRUDET) 1011 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida where I was accepted to AOCS, VP-31 for training, VP-9 (10/1985-03/1989) as a NAVCOM, VP-31 (04/1989-06/1992) Instructor, VP-69 as a TAR and CPRW as Officer in Charge of a training det at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. Retired January 1, 2000 on 15 acres here at Whidbey Island. I often times find myself missing a lot of old friends and early morning preflights..." [E-Mail Updated 06MAR2017 | 21OCT2004]

HOMAN, Bert homan_bert%PAX6@MR.NAWCAD.NAVY.MIL"...Any one out there remember Rubber Duck Airlines? Or perhaps Miyoko in Misawa. VP-47 from 75 thru 78. Never got back to VP, but did have a great tour in VXN-8. Where are the world travelers anyway? Bert Homan retired 93..."

HOUFEK, Don houfekd@cprfp.navy.mil "...I was stationed with VP-11 1988-92, NAS Brunswick, Maine; VP-47 1993-98, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii as an IFO (until they kicked us to the curb in 1994); CPWP, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii which changed to COMPATRECONFORPAC when we moved into the AOC John W. Finn building at MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. I would like to thank CDR Bob Lally (XO VP-9) and LT "BOZ" Bostron for taking a suggestion and making it a reality! It really meant alot to John, all Ordies, and was the best ceremony I have had the privilege to be a part of!! Would like to hear from my friends out there! BE SAFE!! I.Y.A.O.Y.A.S...." [07SEP2000]

HOYT, AOC Jackie A. jbrhoyt@earthlink.net "...I served with VP-47 from September 1989-March 1993 at NAS Moffett Field, California. I would like to hear from anybody that served in that time frame. I'm currently serving with VP-65 Reserve Patrol Squadron at NAS Point Mugu, California..." [30JUL2002]

HUBBARD, AO(AC) L. Lee bb_stacker_00@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-50 from 1970 to 1972 and VP-47 from 1976 to 1978. I would like to here from old Shipmates..." [08SEP2003]

HUDDLE, Larry lhuddle@juno.com"...I served as a radar operator in crew 5 of VP-47 from Feb., 1963 thru Mar., 1966..." [E-Mail Updated 31MAR2005 | E-Mail Updated 24MAR2001]

HUDSON, ADRC John T. Retired ;hudson75@knology.net "...I served with ATU-11 and ATU-12 at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and NAS Hutchinson, Kansas, VP-1, and VP-47. I flew in the PB4Y-2, P2V-5, and P5M..." [BIO Updated 22JAN2003 | 21NOV2001]

HUMES, AFCM(NAC/AW) Leonard humesleonard@cox.net "...I served at OMD NAS Cubi Point, Philippines from 1980 to 1983, VP-47 from 1983 to 1987 (My one tour with VP-47 was as an FE), AIMD NAS Cubi Point, Philippines from 1987 to 1991, HC-11 from 1991 to 1994, HC-3 from 1994 to 1998), HS-8 from 1998 to 2002, HSL-45 from 2002 to present. My first confidence building accomplishment in the Navy was passing FE school without any P-3 experience. WOW! Felt I could do anything after that..." [29FEB2004]

HUNT, Kyle VP-47@webtv.net "...Hoping to find some of VP-47 CAC-4 say from '88 to '92. Thanx..." [06NOV2000]


ISBELL, James Hoonakwa@worldnet.att.net "...I was with VP-47 from 76-79 and with VP-26 from 80-82 anyone out wanna remember those old days?..." [15NOV98]


JACKSON, MS2 Jerri jerri.jackson@navy.mil "...I served with VP-47 from 1989 to 1994. We were originally homeported at NAS Moffett Field, California then re-homeported to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. I was then known as MS2 Parker. I am now retired and a disabled veteran. Wanting to re-establish friendships with Shipmates and see if I can get a copy of the NAS Adak, Alaska Deployment cruise book. The squadron was already deployed when I joined her. I now work as a civilian at NAS Fallon, Nevada. Hoping to hear from old friends..." [05FEB2004]

JACKSON, Johnny jcksnjj@att.net "...I served with VP-47 (1974-1978) as a IFT. A few of my follow Shipmates included Jack Bersto, Bob Smith, P.T. Smith, Fowler, Dennis Graff, Clark Heath, Testwede and LT Miller. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 08MAR2012 | E-Mail Updated 20MAR2007 | 08AUG2000]

JACKSON, ATC Ken Retired P3TRON@AOL.COM "...Did 20 years in P-3's VP-9 (64-66), VP-47 (68-69), VP-45 (70-74), VP-30 (75-76), VP-40 (77-80), and CPW-11(80-83). Retired in 83 as an ATC with over 7000 hours. Then played Tech Rep(TEX-REP) For VP-92, VP-94, VP-60, and VP-90. Love those P-3's. No greater feeling in the world than flying around with two spare engines. Love to Here from ya-all..." [13MAR98]

JERDEE, AW2 Andy "Odie" a.jerdee@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1983 to 1985 as a Radar Operator on Crew 2..." [25MAR2011]

JESSE, Karen (Sweeney) krsjesse@insightbb.com "...I was an AT3 in VP-1 from November 1990 to April 1993, then at AIMD NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from April 1993 to February 1994 when I reported to VP-47 February 1994 to March 1995. After my trip to Masirah/ NSF Diego Garcia and making AT2 with them, I transferred to AIMD NAS North Island, San Diego, California for my final tour. I got out in October 1997 and am currently attending college in Dayton, Ohio. I would love to hear from yall! I am now living outside of Louisville, Kentucky, going to Nursing school (far cry from Avionics!) and parenting my two kids, ages 6 and 9..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 22APR2003 | 22MAR99]

JOHNSON, AT1(AW) Daleya "Dee" deejohn525@yahoo.com "...I was stationed at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1986 to December 1988 with VP-47, TAD to AIMD, W/C 640-Radar tech. Would love to touch base with those who remember me at the "glass house" and the squadron! I knew some folks at VP-31 too!..." [29NOV2006]

JOHNSON, Douglas L. tlwdmax@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VP-47 (09/1969-07/1972) and flew as a pilot..." [19AUG2016]

JOHNSON, John "JR" giraffe3@webpc.dellnet.com "...graduated from academy in 75, in VP-47 from 1976 through 1980, finished up as instructor pilot in NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and out in 1981...Presently working for Boeing at Kennedy Space Center, Fl...Enjoyed GUAM best while on deployment at NAS Misawa, Japan..." [13JUN2000]

JOHNSON, Roy wroyjohnson10354@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-31 based at NAS Moffett Field, California from June 1967 to January 1970. I worked in the Power Plant Shop with some of the greatest guys in the world. I was transferred to VP-47 in January 1970 making one deployment to NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan and NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam. I was discharged from the Navy in December 70. I returned to my hometown of Chicago, Il. where I continue to live. I have been married for 26 years and have raised 2 sons. I returned to college and earned a BS degree in Accounting. I would love to hear from some of my old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 10SEP2005 | E-Mail Updated 25JUL2003 | 18AUG2000]

JOHNSON, Ted TDJECO@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 from Dec '49 till Nov '52 as AE type. We were in Japan when the Korean "police action" broke out. I am pleased to see someone taking the time and effort to esprit de corp alive. Would be glad to hear from anyone from the olden days..."

Memorial Picture "...JOINES, James (Jim)...My father, James (Jim) Joines, served with VP-47 in the 1950's and 1960's as a maintenance officer. He did two or three tours in Vietnam with the unit. I would appreciate hearing from anyone who served with him. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1994...John Joines corvettes4life@msn.com..." [04JAN2007]

JONES, Ray B. rayjones@azone.net "...I was first radioman in BA-9 VP-47 from 1952 to 1955 (NAS Alameda, California, NS Sangley Point, Philippines, NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and Korea). Anyone in the squadron during this period I would love to hear from..." [E-Mail Updated 02JUN2005 | E-Mail Updated 02MAR2002 | 02NOV2001]

JONES, Richard "Dick" apriljones49@aol.com "...I served with VQ-2 (1962-1965), VAQ-132 (1970) and VP-47. While with VQ-2 I flew as enlisted third seater aircrew in EA3B's. I flew a lot of missions with LCDR Dave Caswell, Mel Everhart, and Jerry Fox. My second flight squadron was VAQ-132 Scorpions aboard the USS America in 1970 in the Tonkin gulf in EKA3B's. Finished my career in 1978 with VP-47 as a mech on the T-56's. Would not call this the highlite of my career, so I retired and moved to Texas with my wife and two kids. Have not hit a lick since 1993, after I retired the second time, bought an RV and never looked back. Do as much fishing as I can and play a little golf. Have tried to locate Cdr. Caswell but have had no success. If anyone has any info I would be greatful. God bless to everyone..." [15OCT2014]

JONES, Ted TJones5413@aol.com "...Served with VPB-26 February 1946 to December 1946, VPMS-2 February 1947 to August 1948, VP-46 March 1950 to July 1952, and VP-47 June 1956 to November 1958. In addition I was a shipboard member of the USS Onslow (AVP-48) from November 1954 to May 1956..."

JORDAN, AX2 Dan d.jordan@multitest.com "...Served aboard VP-47 (1979-1983) as a groundpounder, and as an "I" level Instructor at NAMTGD at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1983-1987. Just checking in..." [E-Mail Updated 27SEP2000 | E-Mail Updated 18FEB99 | 01DEC97][ICQ# 33220220]

JORDAN, Tom tomjrd@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-6, VP-31, Commander Naval Air forces Pacific (CNAP), VP-47, Fleet Aviation Specialized Operatonal TRaining GRoUP PACific (FASOTRAGRUPAC) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California, VP-50 and ASWOC NAS Moffett Field, California..." [22NOV2012]

JORGENSON, Carrol fadeddenim@aol.com "...I served in VP-47 from 70 to 73, with Crew 11 as radio operater in 1970 and with crew 1 as flight technician in 72/73. I went to work with Lockheed California Company in 1973 and worked as a tech rep on P-3A/B/C at NAS Moffett Field, California from 74 to 76, with VP-46 in Iwakuni in 1975, with all NAS Brunswick, Maine squadrons from 76 to 83, All NAS Jacksonville, Florida VP squadrons from 83 to 85 and then to U.S. Customs Service in Corpus Christi where I am still an employee of Lockheed (now Lockheed Martin) working on P-3 aircraft, as an avionics tech rep on the Customs Service P-3-AEW Rotodome. It was really good to find some of my old crew mates in this site..." [13FEB98]

JUNE, Clay cmjune@juno.com "...I served in VW-1 on NAS Agana, Guam from February 1964 till July 65 Started in the Line Crew then in Engine Build Up then to Powerplant Division. In Aug.65 went to VP-47 in NAS Moffett Field, California in Jan 65 we deployed to Naha Air Base, Okinawa till June 66. Still liked the "Connies" over the P-3's but both were rugged dependable planes.Revisited Guam in May 99, quite a few changes but runway, barracks, and base housing are still there. Nothing much left of where our squadron was at. Anyone who was stationed there drop me a line..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 28SEP200 | 06NOV99]


KALER, Joseph W. jjkaler@fastmail.fm "...I was a part of VP-47 (P5M's) from late 1961 until 1964, serving as Radar/Mad operator (back up radio) in Crew 5. I left the Navy in 1964, then worked in Alaska on the satellite tracking station - later worked at the American Embassy in Bonn, Germany. The Navy experience was fantastic and I remember so many of the great Shipmates and would be glad to hear from any of them..." [14JUN2006]

KELLEY, Pat pkelly@dfn.com "...I served in VP-47 from 1961 to 1965. I was the radio operator in Crew 1, the skipper's crew, the Skippers were Commander Dow and Commander Smithy. In 1962 the crew became Crew 7 and I became the Radar/Mad operator. Did the 1962 deplyment to NAS Kodiak, Alaska and Cold Bay Alaska and the 1964 deployment to PI. Would like to hear from other Shipmates of that era..." [17MAY98]

KELLOGG, ATS2 Harold hgkellogg@outlook.com "...I served with VR-8 (06/1959-10/1961) at NAS Moffett Field, California (crewman aboard the C121-G Super Connie), VP-48 NAS North Island, San Diego, California and VP-47 at NAS North Island, San Diego, California (crewman aboard the P5M). After serving in the Navy I relocated back to the SF Bay area and worked for several aerospace companies. On that day, April 12, 1973, (SEE: In Memorial for (VP-47) lost friends April 12, 1973) I was working at ZETA Labs in Mountain View, about a mile from the approach end of the NAS Moffett Field, California runways. I felt the building shake and then a rumble. I ran outside and saw the black smoke just behind some houses. I ran down the Bay Shore Frontage Road to the Sunnyvale Golf Course and to the burning aircraft. At first I could not understand what the situation was, the smoke was so thick that I could not see the P-3-V under the Convair 990. I saw some golfers trying to break in the cockpit windows of the 990 but the glass was too thick. Their clubs just bounced off the glass. I could see the pilots hanging from their seat belts but they were not moving. The golfers and I were very upset that they could not break in. I did not have anything that I could use for a club so I looked around but the heat was getting very bad. The firemen then arrived and took over and cut into the aircraft with a saw. As I walked back to work - to the Frontage Road - I saw some golfers playing tho as if nothing had happened! What die hards. Nobody has mentioned it but I think that the NAS Moffett Field crash crew drove their trucks right through the boundary fences of NAS Moffett Field - across both north and south bound lanes of US 101 and the median barrier between them and through all the fences to get to the crash site. They weren't fooling around! I remember that the local hospital had been prepared for receiving many crash victims but only one was brought in to the ER room! I returned to the crash site about two weeks later, the golf course had been restored so that I could not tell what had happened a few days earlier. God bless all of the crewman that were killed and the lone survivor of that tragedy. It will be 44 years since this has happened but I can recall it as if it had happened yesterday. This is a solemn reminder that even in peace time, Freedom is not Free!..." [26FEB2017]

KENNEDY, ADC Charles A. Retired Squid4093@aol.com "...VP-9 74-77, VP-31 77-81 and VP-47 81-84, All ways looking for old Shipmates and if any one knows a Paul Purse VP-47 75-78 and also he was in VP-91 and a very close friend of mine and my wife PLEASE HELP us find him, lost contact. Also looking for Dwayne Sherzwinger goes by S+10. GOOD LUCK TO ALL MY Shipmates FORM THE PAST..." [03SEP98]

KENT, AE3 Jerry soupy7123@webtv.net "...I was an AE3 in the ground crew of VP-47 from 7/51 thru 10/52. I was on BA-1 on a liberty /loot run to Japan prior to it's fatal crash in Hong Kong harbor. On the way back from Japan I got off at Okinawa where the seaplane tender was deployed for a months tour. The next flight out of NS Sangley Point, Philippines with half my sea-bag aboard . I still think of my liberty in Japan & those crewmen that were lost. I have one great picture of a couple of the crew-men in Japan..." [08FEB2002]

KINGSLAND, Arthur J funtime@dave-world.net "...I was in VP-47 in 60-61 and we did have a great time. WE did have afew things happen. Like one of our boats run into a buoy and cart wheel. And good old E. L. Williams, AM1 put it back together. I have a old plack that shows a goose riding a bomb down to the sea from VP-47...Duty 2-1-56 USNR, 2-2-57 Active 2-3-57 VR-8, 1-2-58 VR-7, 1-1-59 USS Norton Sound AVM1, 12-59 VP-47, 1-62 VT-23, 65-66 uss currtuck AV 7 and in 1976 I retired AMH2. I also was in the sea bees for the last 10 years SW2..." [03AUG98]

KIPPS, Doug LVTOROCKFISH@AOL.COM "...I was a PN assigned to your squadron from Sept 72-Feb 75. Still remember all the good times we had at NAS Moffett Field, California, Agana, NAS Agana, Guam and even good old NAS Adak, Alaska. Also enjoyed the trips we made to Olongapo City and Taipei, Taiwan. I will never forget the time that one of VP-47 flight crews pointed out the full moon to the officers quarters on Agana, Guam. Well take care guys..." [08AUG2000]

KNODLE, LCDR Edward M. http://ls.afit.edu/LSM/bios/ed_knodle.htm "...LCDR Knodle is an instructor for LOG 131 and LOG 262. Additionally, he teaches Naval Logistics in several other courses, and provides expert consultation on Naval operations, leadership, and aircraft maintenance. LCDR Knodle enlisted in the U.S. Navy in Oct 1978. Upon completion of recruit and technical training he reported to his first Fleet assignment in Sept 1980. In April 1990 he was advanced to the grade of Senior Chief Petty Officer (E-8) and in March 1993 he received his commission under the Navy's Limited Duty Officer program. Instructor, Log 131 and Log 262, Applied Maintenance Management Concepts. 2001-present. USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV-67), NS Mayport FL. Avionics/Armament Division Officer. 1998-2001 Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai HI. Quality Assurance Officer, Asst Maintenance Officer, Maintenance Officer. 1995-1998 Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 115, NAS Atsugi Japan. Maintenance/ Material Control Officer. 1993-1995 Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 10, NAS North Island, San Diego, California. Line Division Leading Chief and Maintenance Control Supervisor. 1991-1993 USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62) Philadelphia Naval Shipyard/NAS North Island, San Diego, California. Branch/Division/Department Leading Chief Petty Officer for Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department. 1987-1991 VX-1, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. In-flight Technician for P-3C Update III project and Avionics shop supervisor. 1985-1987 VP-47, NAS Moffett Field, California. In-flight Technician and Ground Maintenance for P-3C avionics systems. 1980-1983 Awards: LCDR Knodle is authorized to wear the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (six awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), the Navy Good Conduct Medal (five awards), the Navy Sea Service Deployment ribbon (seven awards), the Navy Overseas Service Ribbon (three awards) plus other unit and campaign awards. Significant Achievements: Logged over 2400 flight hours as Naval Aircrewman aboard P-3C aircraft. Qualified as Naval Aircrewman, Enlisted Surface Warfare, and Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist. Served over eight years aboard aircraft carriers in both Atlantic and Pacific Fleets..." [12JUL2003]

KOMODA, Kurt Satoru agony@optonline.net "...I served with VP-47 between 1989-1992. I was known as AW3 Komoda back then and was Sensor One for CAC-9. I got out just before the squadron moved to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Though I have absolutely no desire to ever return to a forsaken lump of land like NAS Adak, Alaska. I certainly do miss flyin' in the Orion..." WebSite: http://www.geocities.com/agonyagogo [E-Mail/URL Updated 06FEB2001 | 31MAR98]

KOWALSKI, AT3 David kowalskiski@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California 1988 thru Sept, 1991. I was a Aviation Electronic Tech., Groung Pounder. AT3. It was nice to see some of the names I served with. I'm sure you all will agree that the commaroderary we shared was something special. You find nothing like it on the outside. Good Luck to all and feel free to contact me..." [17JAN2005]

Memorial Picture "...KRAEMER, Robert A. "Bob"...Bob passed away Thursday, January 21, 2016. He served with VP-47 (1962-1964) at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. He piloted the P5M Martin Marlin primarily with Crew-6 (Seashell 6). His squadron deployed to NAS Kodiak, Alaska (1962) aboard the USS Currituck (AV-7) and NS Sangley Point , Philippines (1964) aboard the (USS Salisbury Sound (AV-13)). His crew patch was a Tasmanian Devil eating a submarine and he remained a life-long fan of Taz. After leaving the Navy in 1964 Bob continued flying in civilian life as a corporate pilot and flight instructor. He checked out several hundred pilots in the Stearman N2S and also piloted the Ozark Air Lines Museum C-47. He died unexpectedly in his sleep on 21 January 2016. His local aviation friends are planning a celebration of Bob's life and would like to hear from any of his former Shipmates..." Contributed by Libby Yunger libbygirlpilot@gmail.com [14MAY2016]

KRASZYK, Raymond kosmo@netnitco.net "...I was VP-47 Aircrew Photog from 90-93. Some may find it difficult to believe, but I sure miss the honor of wearing the uniform of a sailor in The United States Navy. I miss it so much, that I am now actively perusing my return to reserve status. Hope to hear from some of my former Shipmates..." [12OCT2004]


LAMBIE, Lyle C. "Mick" lambiefamily@earthlink.net "...I served with VC-3, VP-50 and VP-47. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 02MAY2010 | BIO Updated 12FEB2000 | 10FEB2000]

LANDERS, Greg LANDERS, Greg captgpl@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1975 to 1978, Naval Air Reserve CENter (NARCEN) at NAS Moffett Field, California, ComPatWingsPac (and Desert Shield/Storm), VP-91 from 1979 to 1988, ASWOCs (880 and 1080), NR USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), MOCC from 1990 to 1991 at Masirah, Oman and retired in 1996. Happy Holidays to my Shipmates - including the FE's and maintenance folks who kept me safe (especially AVCM Herb Parsons), from the "mystery Christmas card" sender..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 09MAR2011 | 08DEC99]

LANDERS, CDR James Shipmate Pix http://www.nol.navy.mil/homepages/vp-47/html/body_executive_officer.html "...A native of Caledonia, Mississippi, Commander Landers graduated from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and was commissioned through the NROTC program in 1987. He began his Naval career as a Surface Warfare Officer serving as Gunnery Officer and Navigator aboard USS Vreeland (FF 1068) homeported in Mayport, FL. Completing Naval Flight Officer training in 1991, he reported to VP-45 where he qualified as P-3C UDIII Tactical Coordinator/Mission Commander and served as NFO Training Officer, Assistant Training Officer and Assistant Task Group Operations Officer. During this tour, he deployed with the Pelicans to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR and led numerous detachments, including to NAS Sigonella, Sicily in support of Operation Sharp Guard and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Storm. In 1995, he reported to VP-30 as a FRS Instructor, and was assigned to the CNO Fleet Projects Team where he performed duties as the first Aircraft Improvement Program (AIP) Fleet Introduction Officer. In this capacity he was instrumental in establishing the VP community's solid foundation for the most advanced mission system upgrade in Maritime Patrol Aircraft history. For his efforts with AIP Fleet Introduction, he was awarded the Association of Naval Aviation (ANA) Outstanding Achievement Award for Maritime Patrol (1997). Returning to sea duty in 1998, he reported to the MAD FOXES of VP-5 as Tactics Officer. Deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, he led combat support surveillance missions over Bosnia, Herzegovina in support of Operation Deliberate Forge and Kosovo in support of Operation Eagle Eye. He served as Training Officer through a resource limited inter-deployment training cycle and as Operations and Task Group Operations Officer deployed to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Reporting to the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations in 2000, he served as the Air Anti-Submarine Warfare Programs Officer in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Requirements Division (N74). In this capacity, he contributed to programming and planning for critical war fighting improvements to ASW platforms and sensors. Transferring to U.S. Pacific Command in 2002, Commander Landers served as the Deputy Chief of the Joint Interagency Coordination Group for Counter Terrorism (JIACG/CT) in the Operations Directorate (J3). Among the notable achievements while at PACOM, he led the development of the Pacific Command's Regional Maritime Security Program and Southeast Asia Maritime Security (SEAMS) Initiative. CDR Landers is currently XO of VP-47. His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal and Navy Achievement Medal..." [20APR2005]

LANDON, AKAN Pete plandon3@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (09/1965-05/1969) with deployments to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, NS Sangley Point, Philippines, U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand and NAS Agana, Guam. I am now semi-retired in Wickenburg, Arizona. I would like to here from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 19FEB2014 | BIO Updated 12MAY2010 | 09FEB2009]

LARSEN, Debbie (Ryan) dlarsen@lsijax.com "...I was an AT in VP-5 from 1979-1983. Over the years I have seen a few familiar faces, which is always a stroll down memory lane. I have a message for Kenny Mackey from someone special, if any of you know where he is at. He was an AT also during those same years...After I left VP-5, I went to NAS Moffett Field, California to squadrons VP-31 and then VP-47. After 10 years and another EAOS, I got out and worked as an avionics tech rep for the reserves and then went to NAVAIR as a P-3 contractor, then moved back to JAX and worked with LSI as a training specialist and technical writer, off again to New Mexico for a while and now here again to LSI same job, but I never really left the Navy or P-3s..." [18DEC97]

LeBLANC, David dnav1@capecod.net "...I was in VP-9 from 63-66, P-2V7s at NAS Alameda, California to P-3As and later P-3Bs at NAS Moffett Field, California. I was a radio operator in crew six. Later I did a tour in VP-47 with P-3Cs, as an IFT fm late 70 to June 74. I also was a first tech on a OP-2E at the NADC in the late 60's. Enjoyed seeing a lot of familiar names..." [06FEB98]

LEGANT, ADAN Jennifer (Berry) legant@msn.com "...Well, VP-47 was my first taste of what the Navy was all about - it's not for everyone!!!! I got out 4 years later and I still live in Hawaii. I married that AZ guy and we are living it up in the sun and surf. Later all you VP-47 Sailors.....Take Care..." [04JAN99]

LEGGETT, AW1 Ray Retired rayleggett@bajabb.com "...I attended Boot Camp at NAS North Island, San Diego, California and CTR "A" School at NAS Pensacola, Florida. My first tour I had asked for "anywhere" in Europe and got NAS Keflavik, Iceland (I guess my detailer had a sense of humor!) and NS Rota, Spain. I requested a rate change from CTR to AW (1972) while attached to ASCAC NS Rota, Spain for OJT (Thanks AWC Kangas!) until I could get into AW "A" School. While at the ASCAC I was awarded a flight status. January 1973 I was TAD to Souda Bay, Crete during the Arab/Israeli conflict. Finally, in January 1974, I made it to AW "A" School. Next, I went to VP-31 for P-3C flight training and FASO at NAS Moffett Field, California. Following SERE and DWEST training at Warner Springs/San Diego, I joined VP-47 on deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska (09/1974-01/1975). Deployed to NAF Misawa, Japan (02/1976-07/1976). After ASWOC Operators training at Dam Neck I was assigned to ASWOC (11/1977-11/1979) NAS Agana, Guam, ASWOC (12/1979-12/1982) NAS North Island, San Diego, California, ASWOC (01/1983-12/1985) NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, VP-30 (01/1986-04/1986) P-3C UII Training, VP-26 (04/1986-08/1988) with deployments to NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (06/1986-11/1986) and NAS Keflavik, Iceland (12/1987-05/1988), Instructor Training (taught oceanography and gram analysis) at Fleet Aviation Specialized Operational Training Group Atlantic (FASOTRAGRULANT) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and on September 30, 1990 - Fleet Reserve!..." [29JUL2011]

LEMELIN, Steve lemelin@snip.net "...Served in VP-48 from 3/89 to 4/91. Spent 3 months in NAS Adak, Alaska and Okinawa with Crew 8. Went to Crew 9 "The Rude Crew" and spent some time in Cubi Pt, RP. Went to VP-47 due to decommissioning. After VP-47 I went to the TAR program. Served 4 years in VP-94 and almost 3 years in VP-66 after which I got out. I am currently in the process of affiliating with VP-66 and work for a major airline out of New York. I have been told that some of our names from the NAS Cubi Point, Philippines '90 det are on display in the Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola at the NAS Cubi Point, Philippines O' Club display..." [24MAY98]

LEMKE, AW1(NAC) Dennis A. Retired urnotgonzo@hotmail.com "...I served with VS-30, VS-37, USS Enterprise (CVN-65), VP-31, VP-48, CPW-11 from 1981 to 1984, VP-50 from 1984 to 1987, VP-31 from 1987 to 1991 and VP-47 from 1991 to 1994..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 07JUN2011 | E-Mail Updated 07AUG2005 | E-Mail Updated 27OCT2003 | E-Mail Updated 13FEB2001 | E-Mail Updated 18NOV99 | 28JUL98]

LEVERTON, ATN3 Paul S. pleverton@desupernet.net "...Reported aboard VP 47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington March 1962 back when our boats where P5M2S's.After 3 mo mess duty, 2 AT1's took me under their wings and eventually turn me into a Mustang AT3 .Thanks a million to George (Greek) G., Bob N. and the crew of Night Check. Those guys taught me a lot. Never would have done it without their help and guidance..." [20MAY2001]

LEVESQUE, Ken "levek" kenl@iar.net "...I was in VP-47, '89-'93. NAS Adak, Alaska-'90, NAS Misawa, Japan-'92, NAS Adak, Alaska det '93, and NAS Cubi Point, Philippines det '92. Weapons System Test (WST) Team TAD 92-93. Had a great time and miss it much. Now, I'm a slacker civilian network administrator. EWO all the way. Love to here from somone!..." [14JUL98]

Memorial Picture "...LIGHTBODY, ATCS Robert "Bob"...ATCS Bob Lightbody (Retired) passed away on 03-28-14 in Olympia, WA. He will be buried with military honors at Tahoma National Cemetary, Kent, WA. Bob served 24 years in the Navy serving with VP-17, VP-28, VP-47 and VP-50..." Contributed by SELF, AT Bob robertgself@comcast.net [03APR2014]

LIGHTBODY, ROBERT rlight@whidbey.net "...WAS IN VP-17, VP-28, VP-50, AND VP-47 DURING NAVAL CAREER. RECOGNIZED SEVERAL NAMES WITH FOND MEMORIES OF DAYS LONG GONE--WILL PERSUE WITH VIGOR..." [03JAN98]

LILLIS, AT1 Scott Retired scottlillis@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-4, VP-31, VP-46, VP-47 and VP-50. Lots of great friends and good times!..." [E-Mail Updated 09OCT2014 | E-Mail Updated 11NOV2006 | 14AUG2000]

LIMA, Ken meteorlima@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1964 to 1968 as a crewmember (Ordnance/Aft Observer) on the Sodergrens Sots..." [11FEB2010]

LINCOLN, Mark marklincoln@juno.com "...Served in VP-47 1983-1984 with a great bunch of guys. Would like to hear from other AW crewmen who served around that time..." [12AUG98]

LISENBY, CDR Jay http://www.navy.mil/homepages/vp-47/html/body_commanding_officer.html "...Commander Lisenby is a native of Geneva, Alabama. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant of Marines in 1984 through the Marine Corps Platoon Leader's Class program. He completed The Basic School at Quantico, Virginia in 1985 and received a direct commission as a Navy Ensign. Commander Lisenby was designated a Naval Aviator in June 1986. After initial Fleet Replacement Squadron training, Commander Lisenby was assigned to VP-1 stationed at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. There he served as Operations Flight Officer, NATOPS Instructor Pilot, Nuclear Safety Officer and Personnel Officer. During this tour he completed deployments to NAS Misawa, Japan, NAS Adak, Alaska and NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. Commander Lisenby's next assignment was VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California where he was designated a Fleet Replacement Squadron Instructor Pilot. While at VP-31, he served as Aviation Safety Officer, P-3 PQS Program Manager, Standardization Pilot and Flight Demonstration Pilot. In 1993, Commander Lisenby reported to Bureau of Naval Personnel, Sea Duty Component, Dallas, Texas where he served as Operations Officer, Safety/NATOPS Officer and Administrative Officer. Following P-3C refresher training in 1995, he reported for his department head tour in VP-1 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. During this tour, he served as Safety/NATOPS Officer, Training Officer and Maintenance Officer while completing deployments to NSF Diego Garcia and NAS Misawa, Japan. In 1998, Commander Lisenby reported to Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet where he served as Current Operations Officer and later as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations. During this tour he earned a Master of Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. Prior to reporting to PVP-47, Commander Lisenby attended the Naval War College earning a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies. Commander Lisenby's personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, two Navy Commendation Medals, two Navy Achievement Medals and various other campaign and service awards..." [19JUN2003]

LITTLE, Hiram hiram@home.com "...I was an AW with first VP-46 from 1977 - 1982. I then was an Acoustic Instructor with FASO Det NAS Moffett Field, California from 1982 - 1985. After returning to sea duty with VP-47 from 1985 - 1991. I was primary Beartrap crew and CAC - 1. I am very enterested in locating Lamont (Rocky) Redford. He was with FASO in 82 - 83 then went VS in San Diego...As an ex AWC I served on a lot of crews and a lot of fine men. I ended up with 4882 hours (as many asleep as I could manage)..." [27JUL98]

LITTLE, AZ2 Robyn Anne (Whiteman) little5@quixnet.net "...I served with VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California from May 1985 to March 1989, my last duty station. I was an AZ2 when I was released from active duty. I currently reside in Richmond, VT with my husband, John Little and daughter, Hannah Joy. (She was born 12/13/98.) I recently retrieved my household effects in April 1998 from San Jose, CA and found all kinds memorabilia (deployement books, photos and other fun stuff). If anyone served in VP-47 during the above mentioned time frame please let me know. I'd love to hear from them...I'm sorry I missed the Reunion. Please keep me updated with any future Reunions..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 09JUN2002 | 19FEB99]

LITVIN, Robert r@chiproductionz.com "...I survived VP-47 (barely) from 1990-1994. I am about to graduate college near Chicago. I am now a computer scientist and still a DJ. Holler if you hear me..." [E-Mail Updated 07MAY2001 | E-Mail Updated 07FEB2000 | 01JUN99]

LONG, Edward edterri7788@cox.net "...I served with VP-47 (1968-1969) at NAS Moffett Field, California (Crew-6 Jezebel) with deployments to NS Sangley Point, Philippines / NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam / U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand..." [13NOV2015]

LONG, Laddie laddielong@aol.com "...I would love to hear from any old (and I mean OLD) Shipmates I flew with in VPMS-7/VP-47 while stationed at MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and NAS North Island, San Diego, California from l947-49. I have maintained contact with a few over the years and will be glad to share update information..." [24APR2003]

LOPEZ, Antonio (Tony) tonylopez@inreach.com "...I served with VP-40 from 1962-1964 and VP-47 from 1964-1965. Would like to contact shipmates that I served with..." [02FEB2003]

LOVE-VILLARREAL, Jennifer vluvtrio@bellsouth.net "...I served VP-11 from May 1990-June 1994. Went through IFT track at VP-30, then transferred to VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. I got out of the Navy in December 1998. Would love to hear what some of you are up to these days!..." [22MAY99]

LUCAS, Bob rluca@snowcrest.net "...I served VP-47 as Second Mechanic, first on BA-5 and later on BA-7. We deployed twice to NAS Iwakuni, Japan and flew ASW for Task Forces 77 and 95 in the Sea of Japan and China Sea. We also participated in the arms blockade of North Korea and did some other things also. We lost two aircraft in my time with 27 men. One plane was flying ASW for Task Force 77 when the port prop ran away and the other was in route to Hong Kong for R.& R. and piled into Kagashima. We had many good times and some hairy ones. CDR Bannowski was PPC on BA-7 and CDR Frazier was PPC on BA-5..." [12JAN2004]

LUCAS, Kent Leaky@kearney.net "...I was with VP-47 from August 1970 to Jananuary 1974 as an AME-3. This site brings back alot of old memories of friends and travels. Remember a site called Adak Alaska? I've refreshed that memory several times thought the years. If any of my old friends are in touch with this site or other airdales tell them that I said Hi and I'm still thinking of all of ya! Especially buddies named Ron Bethard, Tom Papuga, Mike Nyland, John Bradley, Bruce Mallibert and so many more. Let me know if any of you are around..." [29NOV99]

LUCERO, Martin J. martyjlucero.net@sbcgloball.net (530-365-6491) "...I served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California from 1978 to 1981. We made the deployment to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan for the six months. I made some good friends. I was in first leiutenant and line shop. I would like to hear from some of you guys like Graddy Ppigg, Roger Mitchell and Franklin..." [E-Mail Updated 02FEB2006 | BIO Updated 09DEC2005 | E-Mail Updated 05SEP2005 | 16JUL2004]

LYON, AX2 Tom lyoneyes@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (1975-1978). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 16OCT2018 | 04DEC98]

LYONS, William Lee lyonsbill97@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47. We were deployed to NAS Adak, Alaska when we heard that one of our aircraft was involved in a Mid Air collision (SEE: In Memorial for (VP-47) lost friends April 12, 1973). I remember Bruce he was a very nice guy and always seem to have a smile. Matter of fact all the Officers and enlisted were pretty good guys. I would like to thank each and every one of them for helping me be the person I am today..." [15JAN2011]


MACYGIN, AD1(NAC) Michael R. Retired Shipmate Pix michael@macygin.com "...US Navy from November 1975 thru October 1995. Served in Patrol Squadron Five-Six (VP-56) from 1978 thru 1984 and Patrol Squadron Four Seven (VP-47) from 1987 thru 1990 as P-3 Flight Engineer. I'm interested in hearing from any of my former Shipmates..." WebSite: http://www.macygin.com/ [25APR2000]

MADDOCK, PN2 Greg "Maddie" Retired ptrbltdrvr_2000@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from October 1991 to May 1995 with 2 deployments to NAS Misawa, Japan and NSF Diego Garcia. I made alot of great friends, Bret Pearson, Bruce McVicar, Ken Levesque, Julie LaBelle. If I have forgotten anyone I am sorry. Hope this finds all former squadronmates in the best of health. I have been looking for Stacey Stewart and Steph Taylor. Anyone having knowledge of their whereabouts please email me. Hope all is well in the land of Aloha!..." [BIO Updated 09OCT2005 | 22AUG2001]

MADDUX, LCDR Dick "...I was attached to VP-47 from the early 1970's. I did an NAS Adak, Alaska tour and the Guam NAS Moffett Field, California rotation. I am now retired from the Navy Reserves and a Captain for a major airline. Just wanted to say HI!..." [12FEB99]

Memorial Picture "...MADISON, ADJ3 Lawrence Sydney "Larry"...My Uncle, ADJ3 Lawrence Sydney "Larry" Madison, served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California. My Uncle was killed in October 1966 while on a stopover at NAS Agana, Guam. Please contact me if you have any information regarding my Uncle. Thank you...Lori Madison-Makes lamadison@verizon.net..." [E-Mail Updated 14FEB2009 | E-Mail Updated 07MAR2002 | 16NOV2000]

MANN, ADC Mark A. Retired mmann1@yahoo.com "...I joined VP-5 in April, 1972 as an ADJAN. VP-5 was on deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily at the time. I was first assigned the duties of Duty Driver. In those months, I met many of the aircrew when I delivered food, coffee, and water to the flights. That led me to riding along on a tactical flight one day and I thought that was the neatest thing since sliced bread. Then I heard about the second mech program and started lobbying to be allowed to enter that program. I was allowed and when the squadron next deployed to NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, I was there as a NATOPS qualified second mech. Another deployment back to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and then I was up for orders. Wanting to continue flying, I reported to VP-31 for FE school, where I finished #1 in my class. My next assignment was VP-6 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. From there, I went back to NAS Jacksonville, Florida and taught ground pounders at NAMTD1011. My next assignment was VP-30 FE refresher followed by VP-45. While at VP-45, my wife got really sick and I took a humanitarian transfer to NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Fortunately, she recovered quickly and I terminated my humanitarian status and reported to VP-16. When that tour ended, I reported to RTC Orlando and pushed boots for 3 years. After RTC, I went back west to VP-31 for another FE refresher course and on to VP-47. I retired from the Navy in 1993 and went to work for United Technologies Corporation's Pratt & Whitney Division and then on to their Hamilton Sunstrand (formerly Hamilton Standard) Division. I retired from there in 2013 and currently live in the Charlotte, NC area. I loved the VP community and everyone in it, and I loved flying the greatest airplane ever built...." [28FEB2019]

MARQUARD, AVCM (AW) Chris vp91avcm@yahoo.com "...I proudly served with the Golden Swordsmen of VP-47 from March 1976 thru June 1979, then immediately affiliated with the best Reserve Patrol Squadron in the United States Navy, VP-91. I have been with VP-91 since then, starting as an AX2 in Work Center 210 working for AT1 "Sluggo" Scott Sutherland. We are reunited again, serving as the Comand Master Chiefs for VP-91 until July, 1998 when I will transfer to CRPWP / CPW-4 to assume the duties as the Wing Master Chief...I am working with ADC Mike Ward and AVCM Scott Sutherland here at the Navy's newest Naval Air Reserve Center (San Jose), planning to retire in the March/April '01 timeframe. Miss the hardware and realize it's time to go home. Would love to hear from all of you, stay in touch..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 04JUN2000 | 29APR98]

MARTIN, AEC Garry E. garry11mm@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-10, VP-30, and VP-47. I transfer back to NAS Brunswick, Maine in December 2002. Currently on deployment to NAS Misawa, Japan, 2 more months to go! Still VP and still loving it!..." [27SEP2002]

MARTIN, Hughie hmartin16@tampabay.rr.com Shipmate Pix Circa 2000 "...I Joined the Navy in 1957, after "AO" A school was in VA-35 out of NAS Jacksonville, Florida and USS Saratoga. Went to VFAW-3 at NAS North Island, San Diego, California. Was in VP-31 62-63, then joined VP-47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington in 1964 and deployed to NS Sangley Point, Philippines. On return to USA we picked up our 1st P-3 and moved to NAS Moffett Field, California. I flew with crew 5 in the P5M's and the P-3's. I am trying to contact Albert B Smith, He was a AE2 FE in 1966 and later went to recruiting duty. I was an AO1 at the time, then left the USN in 1966 and enlisted in the USAF and finished up with 28 years. Now retired in sunny Lakeland Fla. Would love to hear from any old friends..." [E-Mail Updated 01NOV2004 | E-Mail Updated 11NOV2001 | PIX Added 25JUN2000 | Updated ICQ 05APR2000 | 06MAY99][ICQ 1559554]

MARTIN, Jim deer4jim@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1954 to 1955 at NAS Alameda, California and NAS Iwakuni, Japan..." [29FEB2004]

MARTIN, Richard richard.martin@ipaper.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1964 to 1966. I flew as a Julie-Radio Operator with Crew 10 (P5) and Crew 2 (P-3). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 10DEC2008 | E-Mail Updated 16NOV2001 | E-Mail Updated 14JUN2001 | 11MAY98]

MARTIN, Ronald Shipmate Pix rgmartin@texas.net [E-Mail Updated 27JUN98]

MATHEWS, Chuck "Matt" cvmdc@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 from mid 1952 to mid 1955. I flew some in BA7 and I believe it was in 1954 but could also been in late 1953 as well. I was an ATAN, while at NAS Alameda, California. I also did compartment cleaning while I wasn't flying as ECM on 7 Boat. I was a brown bagger as well. I would like to hear from anyone who knew me. I am looking for O'Leary who was from the Boston area and John Gilbride who was from the Chicago area. John had also been with me in VF-821 and we left the Essex to go to VP-47. I've been in touch with some of the VP-47 guys and even recently had a nice visit from Walter Golsan from crew 9 (1952 and 1953 years). Walter was an AO2. It was a very nice visit but very short also..." [01JUL2004]

MATHEWS, Greg "Mat" c130loadmat@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California from 1981 to 1983 in Airframes, Flight Engineer Shop and Corrsion Control. Great Tour!..." [18APR2008]

MAYHEW, Donald H dhmay@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1952-May 1955. My home base was Alemeda, California. I served under Commander Hayes, Commander Thayer, Lt. Bryans, First Class Henry Beck, First Class Wayen Nelson, Airman Studder and many others. I was stationed overseas at NAS Iwakuni, Japan. I would like any information from any men serving with VP-47 at that time..." [28FEB2000]

MAZY, Mike mikemazy@hotmail.com "...I spent 11 and one half years in the Navy, most of it with VP squadrons. I was stationed at NAS Moffett Field, California in Sunnyvale, California, first with VP-19 then transferred to VP-31 then back to VP-47. I left the service in 1974 as an AW-1. I served as a crewman on various flight crews and with VP-31 was also an Instructor training flight crews. I helped train the Australian Air Force when they purchased P-3's and saw when they lost one of their aircraft on landing at Moffett Field when one of the main landing gear broke off. It was determined later using metallurgical tests that the metal used to make that landing strut had crystallized and was defective. I was also in the VP-19 when they lost an airplane on an evening sub exercise south of Catalina Island. I was to take the place of one of the crewman who died in the crash however he showed up for his flight and went instead. I was also in the squadron when one of the flight crews was doing touch and go's and an Ames Research 707 was directed to land on the same runway and the 707 crashed into the underside of the P-3. The only survivor of that crash was a friend of mine named Bruce Malibert. He wasn't supposed to live. He sure fooled the doctors. Not only did he live, he came out of his coma and learned to talk again. He remained a paraplegic though. He was from San Bernardino, California. The last I heard is that he got married..." [E-Mail Updated 16DEC99 | E-Mail Updated 25MAY99 | 26APR98]

McCLENATHAN, Roger RogerMc1@msn.com "...I served with VP-47 from l955 to 1956 then was transferred to FASRON-116 till 1957. Haven't seen any names from that time period. If some are out their let me know. Darryl DeNevue is still around and also Donald D. Dicks. Any one know a Robert Morris? Any way if former VP-47 from 1955 to 1957 give me a jingle..." [08JUN2002]

McCLIMANS, AMH1 Paul B. paulmcclimans@gmail.com "...AMH1 P-3A/B/C Flight Engineer. I served with VP-47 from 1963 to 1967, COMFAIRWINGSPAC from 1967 to 1971, VP-19 from 1971 to 1975, and VP-30 from 1975 to 1977. I am currently working for Anheuser Busch making the stuff we all drank..." [E-Mail Updated 05APR2011 | E-Mail Updated 17MAR2004 | E-Mail Updated 10MAR2002 | E-Mail Updated 12NOV2001 | E-Mail Updated 05JAN2001 | E-Mail Updated 02OCT2000 | 16OCT98]

McCORQUODALE, AX2 Bill "Mac" bill.mccorquodale@lmco.com "...I served in VP-47 from 1969 to 1972. I was originally rated as an AW-3, then crosstrained to the AX rating when VP-47 received its first P3C aircraft. I was responsible for maintenance of Sensor Station 1, 2 and 3 electronics. I am currently a Product Assurance Manager for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space Co. in Sunnyvale, Ca..." [01MAY98]

McDERMOTT, AZ1 Steve s_kellan@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1993 to 1997. Great time. AZ1 at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center onboard NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Love to hear from you. Drop me a line..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 19NOV2007 | 14OCT2000]

Memorial Picture "...McGEE, Douglas J. Sr...My Father, Douglas J. McGee Sr., served with VP-47 as a aircraft machanic. On October 12, 1950 the the USS Pirate (AM 275), along with several other ships, was sweeping the area of the Wonsan Harbor near Sin-Do island. During her sweeping activities, USS Pirate (AM 275) was alerted of the presence of several mines and that the first confirmed mine position was close to her. As she was turning to change her course, she struck a mine. The North Korean's took this opportunity to fire on the crew at which time a VP-47 responded aggressively (Dad was the 50-cal gunner) and his crew was awarded the DFC for their actions during that day. I would like hear from any Shipmates that remember my Father..." Contributed by SSG Douglas J. Mcgee Jr. dougmcgee54@yahoo.com [04APR2013]

McGOVERN, CDR Tom http://www.navy.mil/homepages/vp-47/html/body_executive_officer.html "...Commander Tom McGovern, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in May 1986 with a B.S. in Mathematics (Operational Analysis). He was designated a Naval Aviator in March 1988. In September 1988, Commander McGovern joined his first operational command, VP-40 at NAS Moffett Field, California. He served as Public Affairs, AO Branch, AV/ARM Division, Assistant Operations and Pilot Training Officer. He was next assigned to VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California in October 1991 as an Instructor Pilot and Assistant Pilot Training/Schedules. In September 1992, he was selected as Aide and Flag Lieutenant to the Commander, Patrol Wings and Commander, Anti-Submarine Warfare Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. In October 1993, he reported aboard the USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64) as a Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer. Besides a Western Pacific and Persian Gulf deployment on the CONSTELLATION, he served for four months on the USS SARATOGA (CV 60) in support of Operation DENY FLIGHT. In 1995, he reported to the Operations, Readiness and Mobilization Directorate of the Army Operations Center, Pentagon. During this joint assignment, he was an Operations Officer for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. He also completed the Air Command and Staff College (JPME I), and the Armed Forces Staff College (JPME II) educational programs and was designated as a Joint Specialty Officer. In March 1998, he reported to VP-1 where he served as Safety/NATOPS, Assistant Operations, and Operations Officer. During this assignment, Commander McGovern was responsible for flight operations encompassing NSA Bahrain, Masirah, NSF Diego Garcia, NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and Japan while concurrently serving as the Command's Senior Pilot. In February 2000, Commander McGovern reported to the Office of the Chief of Naval Personnel as the Aviation Enlisted Community Manager. Commander McGovern holds a M.B.A. from George Washington University. His awards include a Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals, Joint Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal and various other service awards..." [19JUN2003]

McKINNEY, AOC(AC} Mike Retired mikesue@cdsnet.net "...I served with VP-40 in the PI [Sangley Pt.] 61, 62, 63, VP-47 [Whidbey Is.] 63, 64, VP-1 [Whidbey Is.] 65, 66. From there went into fighters for a few years then to Helos then on to attack types for a lot of years. I finnished off at NAS Cubi Point, Philippines as weapons dept lcpo..." WEBSITE: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Hills/7563/

McKINNEY, J. Michael mmckinne@navprgms.mar.lmco.com"...I'm a VP Sailor and a previous Lockheed P-3 Tech. Rep and I'm presently working in Lockheed Martin P-3 Engineering. My love of the P-3 began in 1973 when I got my first ride in one as an AT2. After that I received orders to VP-30 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to P-3B Weapons System Test (WST) school in 1974. Upon completion of Weapons System Test (WST) school I was assigned to VP-11 (1975)and starting working towards becoming an IFT. I was awarded my AC Wings after the 1975 Rota/ NAF Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal deployment. I made the subsequent deployment in 1976 to Bermuda/ NAF Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal. Nov.76 I was transferred to VP-30 for P-3C IFT school. I was then assigned to VP-45 in 1977 and deployed to Sicily in 1978, after which I got out of the Navy and went to work for Lockheed. As a Lockheed Tech. Rep.I was assigned to VP-46 (1979-1982), Royal Netherlands Navy (82-83) Royal Australian Air Force (84-86), VP-47 (86-87), VP-50 (87-88) Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) (88-92) CPW-11 (92-93) and worked on the Korean Navy P-3C aircraft on the Lockheed flight line. Old shipmates please drop a line..."

McMACKEN, Patrick patrick.mcmacken@gte.net "...Received Wings September 1970, first tour at Pacific Missile Test Center. Served with VP-47 April 1973 - January 1976 as a pilot and PPC followed by tour at Comnavmarianas as Admiral's Aide then on to USS Enterprise (CVN-65) as Electronic Warfare Officer. Went to the Reserves at NAS Moffett Field, California then to CPW-2 1981 - 1982 then my department head tour with VP-22, June 1982 - July 1985, PPMC with the Blues Crew. Left VP-22 and spent the next five years in NAS Corpus Christi, Texas at VT-27 and Trawing 4. Retired in 1990. Now working in Municipal Government as the Emergency Management Director for the City of Irving Texas, home of the Dallas Cowboys and also serve as the President of the Emergency Management Association of Texas (EMAT) http://www.emat-tx.org..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 02JUN2002 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 14JAN2001 | 12OCT98]

MEESTER, Richard L. rmeester@aol.com"...1973-1977 VP-47 Moffett Field..."

MEGSON, Gary M. trackingpres@myway.com "...I served 6 years in VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California and NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, then another 4 in VP-26. I was a Flight Engineer the whole ten years and I must say that I don't miss the Navy but I do miss the aircraft. I have just over 5000 hours in the aircraft and would give anything for just one more..." [21DEC2004]

MEGSON, Janice (Forester) j_siegrist@hotmail.com "...I was stationed at NAS Moffett Field, California and was in VP-47 during our homeport change to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. I left there to go to NAS Brunswick, Maine. But I missed all of my old friends from there, Jodie, Hammer, Titus, etc..." [E-Mail Updated 11JUN2001 | E-Mail Updated 05MAY99 | 30MAR99]

MIKITA, Ted E. ted@lwranch.com "...I served with VP-47 (1982-1985) as a pilot under CDR Brown, Quigley and Krumbholtz. Mostly assigned to Crew-4 and some CNO Project BEARTRAP action..." [21OCT2012]

MILA, AM2 Leon "Chandler" milezaway71@yahoo.com "...I served with VAW-110 at NAS Miramar, California (1991-1994), VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii (1994-1998) and was discharged. 5 years later I enlisted in the Naval Reserve and currently on active duty orders with North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) U.S. Northern Command at Peterson AFB, CO..." [20NOV2010]

MILLIGAN, AW Bernie berniful@aol.com "...I was an AW in VP-47 from 1969 - 1972 stationed at NAS Moffett Field, California. We made deployments to NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan and NAS Adak, Alaska. I loved my VP Navy life. Hello to Lt. Kersey, Lt. Maurer, Lt. Bellamy, LCDR Jaeger, Johnny Baxter, Chief Baldwin, Jon McDonald, Jerry Cleveland, John Carr, Pete Jensen, and "Harley" Hayden, wherever you guys are. Regards..." [29JAN2001]

MILLER, AOC Robert T. Retired charliem@bluemarble.net "...I was air gunner in VPB-102 44-45. As an AOM3. I was air gunner in VPB-102 44-45. As an AOM3. Served in VP-47 62-65 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, NAS Moffett Field, California, and Okinawa. First deployment in P-3..." [11SEP98]

MILSTEIN, Eric ebmilstein@worldnet.att.net "...AW-2 VP-64 1981-1987, LT., NFO VP-48 (Checked in the week they decommissioned!), VP-47 1991-1995 (The Caustic Crew), VXE-6 1995-1996, VP-91 1996 to Present. (Retirement if they don't get rid of the reserves completely!) P-3's: Baseline Alphas to the last UIII off the production line. NS Rota, Spain- NAF Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal to Diego Garcia-Masirah-Jeddah..." [15MAR98]

MONZON, CDR Vic Retired vmonzon@comcast.net "...Hi. I entered the VP Navy as an NFO via NESEP. I joined VP-47 in November 1978 and deployed to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan the following month. This deployment included a detachment to NSF Diego Garcia. On returning to NAS Moffett Field, California, I was sent to Corry Station for training to assume squadron EWO responsibilities. Also while on the home cycle, I completed two 3-week NAS Adak, Alaska detachments. I qualified as TACCO and (a LTjg) Mission Commander prior to our January 1981 NAS Misawa, Japan deployment, which included two NAS Cubi Point, Philippines detachments. After successfully getting the VP-47 NFO's thru the CNAP NATOPS eval, I transferred to VP-31 Staff. I immediately enrolled in the USC Sytems Management master's program. During the RAG quailification process, I was reassigned to assume the VP-31 NFO NATOPS billet, which included IUT coordinator, and StanBoard chairman responsibilities beyond the usual instructor duties. I then completed my final 18 months as CNAP evaluator. In 1985, with a CARGRU staff unavailable in NAS Alameda, California, I volunteered for a 1 year tour as MC&E(OPS) with CPW-1 det NSF Diego Garcia. With detailers only offering CPWP staff options (4), I joined the staff as Tactics Officer, handling Tactical Development and Evaluation, and AIR Effectiveness Measurement program. This was one of my more successful tours, where I was influential in advancing Force readiness with PTA Attack Criteria, LASER threat guidelines, Acoustic Sensor enhancements, ALR-66 deficiency corrections, and MK-50 initial tactics. Heading to Big Red (VP-19) in 1989 for a 2nd tour, I caught their full NAS Misawa, Japan deployment. On return, I was able to participate in ICEX out of Greenland. With perfect timing, I received Outlaw Hunter training just before our 2nd NAS Misawa, Japan deployment, which coincided with Saddam's invasion of Kuwait. Hence, I took Outlaw Hunter to the Gulf and was there every month of Desert Shield and into Desert Storm. As luck would have it, during Desert Storm, we were notified of our impending disestablishment and rotated home. On promoting to CDR, I rotated to FASO as Training DH and led the design, development, and introduction of the Tactical Training Course. Upon retirement of the OINC in 1991, I relieved him as the final FASO det OINC. In 1994, I transitioned to the civilian world via the Semiconductor Industry. With the recent meltdown of the Asian financial world, I have moved on to the Telecommunications industry. I made a lot of friends during my 16 years at NAS Moffett Field, California, and I would truly enjoy the opportunity to reconnect with those with whom I have lost touch. A couple in particular are Don McLaughlin (East Coast) and Charley Bess (VP-47)..." [E-Mail Updated 28MAY2006 | E-Mail Updated 12JAN2001 | 07SEP98]

MOORE, ADCS Randy Retired randall.w.moore@lmco.com "...Hi Y'all! I'm a career FE from 2nd mech beginnings in VP-5 (73-78), then VP-30 instructing (78-81), then VP-1, VP-31, VP-22, CPW-2, VP-47 and NADEP JAX for a closer. Retired 12/98 and life is good! Now with Lockheed Martin, still playing with the World's Greatest Airplane! Many great memories of the exciting traveling life and great Shipmates. Feel free to shoot me a line!..." [05AUG99]

MORGAN, AW2 Rich rtmonline@earthlink.net "...I flew with VP-47 out of NAS Moffett Field, California from August 1986 through April 1990 as Sensor 1 on Crew 2. I left the Navy to go to school and would like to contact old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 25MAR2004 | 09JUN98]

MORGENROTH, Marissa A. mam7morgen@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from 1993 to 1997 and now on shore duty in Virginia. I really miss those NSF Diego Garcia deployments with three dollar bottles of Captain Morgans. It's no wonder I got everyones pay right! I left Virginia and was stationed with a SEABEE Battalion in Gulfport, MS for six years. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 74 was my home away from home. I say this because during this tour I went on several deployments. Deployments were six months out and seven months in homeport. Then it changed to six out nine months in. It will be changing again now that Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 is the newly commissioned battalion. Deployments will be six out and twelve in. I was with one of the East Coast battalions. Anyway, I went to dets in Puerto Rico, Vieagues Island, 3 trips to Iraq (into Ar Ramadi, Ar Ar, Syria and Fallujah), Kuwait, Pakistan, Okinawa, Guam, Spain and a couple more places in Japan. I have alot of respect for the Seabee and Marine Corps communities especially being with them under fire in Iraq. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for both. I would never trade any time I had with the seabees and appreciate all I learned from them, but I will never forget the P-3 community because it was the best duty I ever had. Now, unfortunately, the DK and PN ratings have merged to form the PS rating. Most DK's DO NOT like this but the Navy is definately downsizing and saving money. I am now stationed at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland for my last tour. Plan on starting another bachelor's degree before retiring from the Navy so I will have two degrees to choose or rather fall back on once I am out. Well I am excited to chat with old friends and collegues and wish the best to all old and new GoldenSwordsmen!!!! ROMEO DELTA OUT!!!!!..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 23JAN2007 | 25AUG98]

Memorial Picture "...MORRIS, CAPTAIN M. Eugene "Moe"...Marion "Moe" Eugene Morris, Capt. USN, Ret., born July 4, 1926, passed away at his home in Colorado Springs, Colorado on April 2, 2005 surrounded by his loving family only eighteen days after the death of his beloved wife of 57 years, Virginia. Moe served with VP-MS-7 / VP-47, MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, NAS North Island, San Diego, California, 1947-1959. Ensign PPC with Ensign FP and Midshipman 3rd pilot/nav. Later flew PBM-5As on NAS Kwajalein, Marshall Islands for Operation Ivy, then with VP-48 1953-1955 PBMs P5Ms. Served on USS Albemarle (AV-5) on east coast, 1959-60...Lee Anderson vp48sugarfox1@gmail.com ..." [05APR2005]

MORRIS, CAPTAIN M. E. "Moe" Retired (Deceased) joedover@aol.com "...Served with VP-MS-7 / VP-47, MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, NAS North Island, San Diego, California, 1947-1959. Ensign PPC with Ensign FP and Midshipman 3rd pilot/nav. Later flew PBM-5As on NAS Kwajalein, Marshall Islands for Operation Ivy, then with VP-48 1953-1955 PBMs P5Ms. Served on USS Albemarle (AV-5) on east coast, 1959-60. For over 52 years my motto has been, "Shucks, anybody can fly an airplane with wheels...God bless you all..." [Deceased Notification 05APR2005 | 23NOV97]

MOSER, LT Andre R. Retired andre@phxaero.com "...I joined the Navy in 1983. AD "A" school in Millington and off to first duty station at NAS Alameda, California Operations Dept. Joined VP-19 as a 3rd Class in 1986 with the squardon just returning from NAF Misawa, Japan. Advanced to 2nd Class and then off to FE School (VP-31) in 1988 with returnable quota back to VP-19 until 1991. I went across the field to VP-31 as a FE Instructor, advanced to First Class. Squadron decommissioned in 1993 and I headed to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii to joined VP-47 who just moved there from NAS Moffett Field, California. Advanced to Chief. Rolled to VX-1 in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in late 1996. I was commissioned as an LDO Ensign in 1999 and headed off to HC-8 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia as a Det Maintenance Officer. Promoted to LT(jg) and headed back to VP-47 now over at MCBH Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii as Maintenance Material Control Officer. Promoted to LT. Left the Island for the las time in December 2005 and headed to Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City, FL. I retired in December 2008 with 25 years. Had a great time in the Navy and still miss it. It's different on the outside as I'm sure many of you have experienced first hand..." [14AUG2009]

MOSIER, CDR Jonathan D. http://www.cnrc.navy.mil/regionwest/sandiego/cobio.htm "...Commander Jonathan Dean Mosier received a bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 1975 and a Master's Degree in Communications in 1978 from Clarion State College. Commander Mosier was commissioned through Aviation Officer Candidate School in May of 1982 and was designated a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) in November of 1984. Following initial P-3 NFO training, Commander Mosier reported in August of 1985 for his initial fleet assignment to VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California. During his tour he served as Line Branch Officer, Aviation Warfare Division Officer, Operations Plans Officer and Squadron Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) Officer. While attached to VP-47 Commander Mosier was designated as a P-3 Mission Commander, Instructor Naval Flight Officer, and Squadron NFO NATOPS Evaluator. During his tour he completed two deployments, one to NSF Diego Garcia and a second to NAS Misawa, Japan. In April of 1989, Commander Mosier reported to VP-31 for duty as an Instructor NFO in the P-3 Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS). In addition to instructor duties, Commander Mosier served as the Command Security Manager, Assistant Administrative Officer and Human Resources Department Head. during his tenure at VP-31. Following the FRS instructor tour, he reported for duty in June of 1991 to CPW-1 One Detachment, Diego Garcia. While assigned to CPW-1, Commander Mosier served as the Tactical Support Center (TSC) Director, Officer-in Charge of the PATWING One Detachment Masirah, Omanand finally as PATWING One Detachment Diego Garcia Operations Officer. During this tour Commander Mosier was responsible for planning and coordinating P-3 operations throughout the Indian Ocean and Southwest Asia. Commander Mosier returned to the United States in July of 1992, reporting to the Naval Postgraduate School. He was awarded a Master's Degree in National Security Affairs and a subspecialty in Foreign Affairs (Far East) in December of 1993 was awarded. Following refresher P-3 training, Commander Mosier reported in August of 1994 to VP-9, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. During his tour he served as Tactics Officer, Administrative Officer, Officer-in-Charge, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii Detachment, NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and as squadron Aircraft Maintenance Officer. During his tenure at VP-9, the squadron completed a split deployment to NAS Misawa, Japan and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and was awarded the 1995 Pacific Fleet Battle "E" for superior performance and combat readiness. In June of 1996 Commander Mosier was assigned to the staff of the Commander, Naval Air Force, United States Pacific Fleet as the Aircraft Inventory Manager and Depot Maintenance Coordinator. In this capacity he was responsible for the budgeting and execution of all Pacific Fleet aircraft depot maintenance, a program valued at over a quarter of a billion dollars annually. During his tour, the backlog of aircraft awaiting maintenance was reduced from over two hundred to zero, dramatically improving fleet readiness. In May of 1999, Commander Mosier reported to the USS Constellation as the ship's Safety Officer. During his tour "Connie" completed a record-breaking deployment to the Western Pacific and Southwest Asia, recording over 10,000 arrested landings without a major mishap during the cruise. Following her return from deployment, USS Constellation was awarded the 1999 Pacific Fleet Battle "E." CDR Mosier then reported to Navy Recruiting District San Diego in August 2000 as Executive Officer, subsequently taking command of NRD San Diego on March 8, 2002. Commander Mosier's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), the Navy Achievement Medal and various service and unit awards..." [01JUN2003]

MOSS, AT1 Nancy Retired nancymoss805@hotmail.com "...I served aboard NAS Bermuda from 1978 to 1980, NS Rota, Spain from 1980 to 1983, NAS Memphis, Tennessee from 1983 to 1989, NAS Adak, Alaska from 1989 to 1991, VP-47 from 1991 to 1993 and NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1993 to 1998. Loving every minute of retirement!..." [11JAN2010]

MOULDEN, LT(jg) Bobby F. Retired bobbymoulden@icloud.com "...I served with VP-16 (1964-1966), VP-1 (1967), VX-1 (1968-1970), VP-47 (1970-1976), COMmander, PATrol WINGS PACific (COMPATWINGSPAC) Tactical Training Team (TTT) and Fleet Aviation Specialized Operational TRAining GroUP, PACific Fleet (FASOTRAGRUPAC) until retirement. I would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 20MAY2015 | E-Mail Updated 14MAR2009 | 29SEP98]

MUMAW, Doug pushrod@comcast.net "...I served with VP-47 from early 1963 to 1965 and crewed with "Seashell 6". Would like to whereabouts of PJ Curtis, last known address in Eugene, OR..." [E-Mail Updated 20DEC2007 | 30JUL2002]

MURPHREY, CWO3 Mike Retired mmurphrey@cfl.rr.com "...I served with VP-47 1977 to 1979, when it was located at NAS Moffett Field, California. I was in the AIO shop as a second-class Intelligence Specialist. Made deployments to NAS Misawa, Japan (twice)and just missed the deployment to NAS Adak, Alaska. I retired from the Navy in 1989 as a CWO W-3. I would like to hear from those that served during that time..." [18MAR2002]

MURPHY, AW1 (AW) Mark Retired mdmliberty@comcast.net "...I started out in the Navy in April 1983 and went to basic at San Diego CA. What a difference for a teenager from Iowa. I went on to NAS Miramar, California and went to work at AIMD Power Plants, as ADAA and worked on TF-30's, J79's, J-52's, and eventually was a AD2 night check test cell Sup. 1987 I got out of the Navy after my 4 years. That was a mistake as I went right back in 6 months later. I went to NAS Pensacola, Florida to Aircrew training and then off to NAS Millington, Tennessee to AW "A" School. 1988 now a AW-2 after completion I was off to NAS Jacksonville, Florida for more in depth training, 1989 I went to NAS Moffett Field, California to VP-47 my favorite tour and first taste of a deployment was NAS Adak, Alaska what a dissapointment. 1990 my next deployment was a crew rotation to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan also going to NAS Cubi Point, Philippines what a experience!!. 1991 I was a AW1 and now worked in Operation's at home but did a split tour between NAF Misawa, Japan and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and again to vist many places NAS Cubi Point, Philippines, It was due to close and this was a sad fact my last flight over NAS Cubi Point, Philippines our AFCM actually cried. 1993 I was now off to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii to FASOTRAGRUPACDET HI as a FASO AW Instructor a nice laid back enjoyable tour, Can't beat Hawaii for a duty station. 1996 I stayed in Hawaii and down the road to the hangar VPU-2, this tour was my most fustrating tour as a AW although we did go to many places some hot some cold I'm sure you have seen coverage on CNN. I worked in Operation's again! It was a good ground job untill a certin NFO LCDR phycio took over and I went to A/C Training as a Aircrew Instructor. I left NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and went to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington to Naval Ocean Processing Facility (NOPF) for short, my worst possible tour ever, Weather is well crappy most off the time, and the job at NOPF is mind numbing. DEC 2003 I retired and had a illness that placed me on TDRL for 5 years or untill I get better or if is resolved or other. I say Hello to all I have served a most import the ones I flew with and shared a lot of good and difficult times with. I didn't say how many flight hours I had but was just short of 4500..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 13NOV2006 | 21DEC2003]

MURPHY, CAPTAIN John S. jmurphy2@earthlink.net "...I served in VP-47 from 1974-77 and VP-65 from 1982-92 with duties at OLF San Nicholas Island, VXE-6 and Pacific Missile Test Center in between. It's been super to have been a VP'er with all the great memories and wonderful friends. Looking forward to seeing old friends at future Reunions. Would love to hear from any former Shipmates. I'm retired now as of 1 Jan 2000. Spending the rest of my days serving our Lord in the Missions field abroad and locally as a hospital chaplain. You may call me at (909) 302-3057 or e-mail me at the below address. I have model airplane contacts in the Philippines that will provide the best quality customized aircraft models of any aircraft at absolutely the lowest prices delivered to your door. This is the same aircraft model maker that we all remember from our good ol' Cubi Point deployments. Remember Mary Tess who operated her business out of the VP Coffee Mess on the NAS Cubi Point, Philippines Flight Line? I'm sad to say that Mary died this past February in Las Vegas but her family carries on her business in the finest Mary Tess tradition. We also do models of any military hardware, trains, motorcycles, cars, etc. God bless you all with fair winds, following seas and happiness in His care..." [08APR2000]

MYLLENBECK, CDR Rick rmyllenbeck@yahoo.com "...After a training stint in VP-31 and FASOTRAGRUPAC at NAS Moffett Field, California, I was assigned to VP-47 "The Golden Swordsmen" from 1977 to 1980. At the end of my active duty tour, I rotated directly into VP-91 "Black Cats" without missing a day. I flew with VP-91 Combat Aircrew 11 until I was commissioned and Ensign in 1988. In the end, I was a board-eligible AW1, SS-3 Blue Card instructor, and had amassed over 3,000 hours of flight time. I am now a CDR in the Navy Reserve Intelligence Program and live in the metro Washington, D.C. area. I sure miss fying in the Orion! Those were the good old days. My family has a rich and proud history in VP as my dad, Warren, was a Lockheed test pilot in the 1950s and flew the P2V platform extensively. He was the Lockheed rep to the VP squadrons at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii between 1955 and 1958. If you have any information about the VP squadrons stationed at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii during that time, please forward that information as I am completing an article about his experiences behind the stick of the Neptune. My brother AWCS (Ret.) Dwight, flew with VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida in the 1980s, and did some pretty awesome P-3 development work at the Naval Air Development Center, Warminster, PA. He was also instumental in saving the AW rating while assigned to NavAir Training in the Pentagon..." [28MAY2005]


NEELEY, Gerald F. Neeley@wycol.com "...I served in VP-47 from 1951-1953 ( NAS Alameda, California). Looking for friend DALE G. MC COY, a PR1 (1st class rigger) from Salinas, CA and EDWARD SMITH from Tennessee a AO1 , 1st class ordinanceman. Lost touch over the years, wondered about them when back in CA at my son's place in Carlsbad. Send any e-mails to this address and my nephew will alert me..." [24MAY98]

NIELSEN, Rick ricknielsenrlnps@aol.com "...I served with VP-22 (1972-1973), VP-47 (1975-1980), VP-31 (1980-1983), VP-40 (1983-1985) and VP-19 (1988-1991)..." [22JUN2011]

NORMAN, John jneaircraft@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1971 to 1975. I had some good times..." [12MAY2009]

NORTON, AWCM Bruce Retired bnorton@bayarea.net "...NAS Moffett Field, California 1970-1994. VP-31 Aug 70-Nov 70, VP-9 Nov 70-Jun 77, CPWP TSC Sep 77-Dec 80, VP-47 Dec 80-Apr 84, CPWP May 84-Jul 87, VP-9 Oct 87-Oct 90, VP-31 CMC Oct 90-Oct 93 Decom. Retired June 94. I retired the day before we turned Moffett over to NASA. I'm still here at Moffett as a NASA contractor. Looking forward to hearing from some old shipmates..." Website: http://ccf.arc.nasa.gov/codejp/JP_home.html


O'DONNELL, Ray rotoboss@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VP-47 (1957-1960)..." [10MAY2015]

OLSON, Scott spice@gfherald.infi.net "...Retired AT1 (formerly AX), VP-47, 1972-74, VP-65, 78-80, VP-9, 80-84, VP-31 (FRAMP), 85-88, One year in Dodge, VPU-2, 90-93. Sure miss Cubi, visited two years ago. Still a slug, but love to hear from former squadronmates..."

OLIVER, CDR Larry L. Retired loliverdc10@comcast.net"...I served with VP-47 from September 1971 to December 1973 as Assistant QA Officer, AE Branch Officer and NFO NATOPS Officer. I would love to hear from anyone who served with me during that time..." [31AUG97 | E-Mail Updated 08NOV2007]

ORGANISTA, Hector B. organistas@cox.net "...I served with the Golden Swordsmen of VP-47 from November 1993 to May 1998. I'm looking for anyone that served during those years. Thank you..." [06SEP2002]

OSBORNE, AT1(AW) Mark Retired oriontk@att.net "...I served with VP-4 (1983-1989 and 1995-1999), VP-31 (1990-1993), VP-17 (1993-1995), VC-8 at NS Roosevelt Roads, PR (2001-2002), VP-47 and retired in September 2003. I am currently work with Boeing on the P-8 Poseidon Project. I had a great time in the Navy but my best were serving as part of VP-4. If like pictures check out my page on the TogetherWeServed..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 20OCT2009 | 29JAN2003]

OSINOVSKY, AT2 Dmitry usnavy@email.com "...I served with VP-47 from September 2000 to September 2005. I had a great time. I am currently an In-Flight Technician (IFT). I have deployed to NSF Diego Garcia, NSA Bahrain and Japan. We participated in a mission against Soviet sub leaving Vladivostok. Funny when you think about it - since I was born in USSR and lived there are until I was fifteen. I might just be the first Russian born Shipmate allowed to join the P-3 fleet. A lot of people did not like that idea, but I showed and proved to them that they were wrong, and I am fighting for my country - USA! I am currently on instructor duty with VP-30 and just might come back to Hawaii next time around! I would like to hear from anyone and everyone!..." [03MAR2006]

OTT, Tony totter@pacbell.net "...I served as an AO Aircrewman with VX-1 at NAS Key West, FL, then with VP-47, at NAS Moffett Field, California. While serving in VX-1, I was fortunate to visit 52 countries and five continents in two years, testing and evaluating, what was then the new P-3C. The Navy even sent me to a, "Training School," at Lockheed, in Burbank, CA, just ten miles from my home in Pasadena. My parents and friends, began calling me, "The Admiral," as I returned to the Lockheed Aircraft facilities many times, during the two years I was assigned to VX-1. My fellow crew members (Crew 5) flew daily into the infamous, "Bermuda Triangle," with no problem. I was just a "punk kid" of 19 years-old and yet visited the top and bottom of the Earth, as well as virtiously every part of the world in between. While flying, I tested the binariy code of ASW warfare, and each of the sonobouy devices, one of which blew up in my face. It was quite an incident. The internal compression tube blew me off my feet, but with no injury. However, it threw a piece of shrapnel through the overhead bulking. The crew and Lockheed supervisors soon discovered the ejection round for the internal Sonobouy chute was too powerful (like placing a .45 bullet in a .38 pistol). Yes I loved every day I was there. I was then reassigned to VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California. I spent my last years in the Navy teaching the AO Shop about the P-3C. Our crew received the first, "E" (excellence) rating for an ASW P-3C aircraft. I took a flight home every weekend, to visit my girlfriend (my first wife) and parents. With just 11 months remaining, VP-47 was assigned to NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam. I spent the next and my last year in the Navy, flying ASW tracts in the Tonkin Gulf. The squadron was then reassigned to the NAS in the Alutiaten Islands. Talk about a culture shock, and a physical shock. The squadron went from 100 degree and 100 degree huminity to 47 below zero in one week. I remember playing football in 21 below zero weather, thinking this was wonderful. Although these memories are nearly 40 years-old, I still recall each hour in the air, every crew member by name, every flight to another country, every bar, barracks and "belly load." For me, from 18 to 21 years-old, it was the time of my life. For America, it was a time of change. I am proud to say I was a part of the American Military and moreover, an Aviation Ordanance Aircrewman on the Lockeed P-3C. It was a time to remember..." [29JUN2004]

OTTINGER, Roy ottingry@aol.com "...Any you old nuts still living that served with VP-1 or VP-47 in 1962?..." [22MAR2002]

OVERMAN, William J. Jr. "Jack" fourbranch@earthlink.net "...I served with ZP-1 (1956-1957) at NAS Elizabeth City, NC (Blimps), VP-44 (1957-1960), VP-30 (Establishment) Det "A" at NAS Norfolk, Virginia (RAG Detachment for the P5M (SP5A/B), VT-6 at NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida, Chief of NAval Air BAsic TRAining (CNABATRA), VP-31 (1964) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California for retraining in the P5, VP-47 (1964-1967) flying as PPC of Crew-9. We were the first crew to achieved "Alpha" Status following transition to the P-3A Deltic configuration..." [E-Mail Updated 05FEB2013 | 05AUG98]

OXFORD, John joxford@xicom.tech.com "...I served at NAS Moffett Field, California for almost 10 years. I served with VP-9 (April 1982 to December 1985), CPWP, VP-31 (1985 to October 1989) VP-47 3 days after the Loma Prieta earthquake and was there until I got out of the Navy in October of 1991...I still live in the area and would love to hear from old shipmates passing through..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 09APR2008 | BIO Updated 14JUN2001 | E-Mail Updated 24APR2001 | 14OCT2000]

OWEN, Robbie (odog in da house) OdogInSD@aol.com "...I served in VP-1 from 87-90 with deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska, NS Subic Bay, Philippines, and NSF Diego Garcia...worked in the mess, AE shop, and all the above......went to VC-5 in the Philippines after that from 90-92. What a duty station!! Most awesome!! Did a split tour, served in VP-47 from 93-95 and then VP-1 again from 95-97.....it was alright the second time around...Aloha to everyone out there who know me....whats up Nick Rebh, LT Plowman, Billy Gaffey....and da rest of the crew....Pete Purcell is in HSL-37 now Billy!! Keep in touch and hope to see some of you in the future....going to Japan in July....Mahalo!!..." [E-Mail Updated 27OCT2000 | 29JAN2000]

OWSKEY, Thomas tomowskey@comcast.net "...I served with VP-47 from 1977 to 1981 as an Inflight Technician. I flew with Crew 1..." [19APR2009]


PABST, AW2 Mark mpabst@reliance-medical.com "...I served with VP-47 (1981 to 1984) atNAS Moffett Field, California. Liberty Crew 5, we were the best. Send me a note, love to here from you guys..." [26FEB2009]

PADILLA, CMDCM Leo Retired vp47cmc@aol.com "...Yo Shipmates, finally removed my khakis after 33 years of service 1 June 03. My last tour was with NSAWC in NAS Fallon, Nevada, sadly not with a P-3 command. Twenty-seven years with P2Vs and P-3A/B/Cs, I was like a fish out of water in Fallon. Luckily, Shipmates at K-Bay persuaded me to do a retirement ceremony there with my community. Mahalo to CMDCM Mo Radke and YNCM Larry Box. The finishing touch to the day was some painted label San Miguel and Red Horse, compliments from AECS Ron Wood, mahalo Mate. I'm now a college student working towards a degree in Golf Course and Sports Turf Management and a househusband. Life is GREAT, and transition has been smooth. My only hang-up is missing the great times and sea stories with the gang. I'd love to hear from friends during tours in VP-4, VP-6, VP-22, VP-31, VP-46, VP-47, VP-48, CPW-2, CPWP, CPRFP, VQ-3, and PMTC, NAS Point Mugu, California. Final destination is Mesquite, NV, but temporarily in San Diego for school..." [BIO Updated 24OCT2003 | BIO Updated 18APR2000 | 22OCT98]

PALMER, Richard W. rwpalmer@mchsi.com "...Was radioman on PBM-5S aircraft with VP-47 at MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1948 to 1949. August 1949 selected for aircrew PBM-5A amphibian aircraft with VR-23 NAS North Island, San Diego, California. From there to Clark Air Force Base, Phillipine Islands where VR-23 was absorbed by VR-21. At outbreak of Korean War, June 1950, was aircrew (radioman) of one PBM-5A assigned direct command of Commander Fleet Air Japan where we flew critical logistic air support as needed and whenever needed..." [02JUL2003]

PARKER/JACKSON, MS2 Jerri Kay jerri.jackson@navy.mil "...I served with VP-47 from 1989 to 1994, was an MS2, so was always TAD. Met up with the squadron in the summer/early fall of 1989, in NAS Adak, Alaska. Wanting to get in touch with any Shipmates from the squadron from then. Medically retired in 1995, now a disabled vet working at the home of Top Gun, NAS Fallon, Nevada, as civil service..." [15MAR2006]

PARTIN, Dan tss2@ix.netcom.com "...I was on the night check airframes crew, does anyone remember the "great snowball fight(s)" in the old barracks??? Mike, I had "Fare Winds and Following Seas". I enjoyed the bucks. Thanks old freind if you ever come across this page. Hey to all the rest of my Shipmates, can't say it was the best time in my life but I had some good times with some of the people. May you all have had "Fair Winds and Following Seas." (VP-47 76-78')..." [01MAY2000]

PATRUNO, Vincent J. Vjpatruno@aol.com "...I served with great pride (VP-47) from 1967 through 1968 on Crew 12 followed by Crew 4. Look for members of my crew. See the book. lets stay in touch. Will attend the next Reunion..." [29DEC2001]

PAZZELLI, "CRAZY JOE" jjpazz@newflorence.com "...P-3C IFT all models. I served with NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 70-73, VP-45 73-76, VX-1 76-79 and 82-85, NMPC S/D Det 79-82, VP-26 85-89, CIVLANT FLT-MIDWEST- 89-PRESENT. Hello to all you VP'ers. I really don't miss the "adventure" just the people..." [26NOV99]

PEABODY, AW2(AW/NAC) Daniel "SHERMAN" dpeabody@4dcomm.com "...Served in VP-47 Dec '90-Jan '96, NAS Moffett Field, California & NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Proudly served as the EWO on CAC 2 the entire time. "FOKU O KUDASAI" Hell of a tour. Amazingly we only ditched one! Currently Assistant LPO at TSC NASNI. I'd Like to Congratulate my Mustang Brother Christopher on becoming the newest NFO for the Red Lancers of VP-10. Use him and abuse him like the newbie that he is! I got your salute right here Ens. Peabody..." [24MAR98]

PEARSON, PN2 Gaylord Ray "Butch" pearsonbutch70@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1985-1989) at NAS Moffett Field, California with deployments to NSF Diego Garcia and NAF Misawa, Japan and a Detachment to COMPACWINGSPAC. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [26NOV2013]

PELTON, AWC Jeff Retired jeffpelton@sbcglobal.net "...AQ from 1970-78 with VA-128, VA-165, VX-5. Changed over to AW 1978. Trained as SS3 with VP-31. Flew as SS3 in CAC-9, 3 VP-47 1978-82. NADC from 82-86, VP-11 CAC-11 86-90 then back to VP-31 until I retired in 93. Moved to Rosamond, CA just west of Edwards AFB. Working as a Electronics Tech for the Union Pacific RR which is a great gig. The Bay Area is great, but my pockets just arn't deep enough! When contacting me please use VP in the subject line or the spam filter (me) will get it. Thanks..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 31JUL2005 | 23SEP2001]

PENCE, AT1 KARL VAN kvp1961@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-17 from March 1994 to January 1995, when they decomm'ed (got orders there from VP-22). I thought they were joking saying that VP-17 was going to be decomm'ed too. VP-17 was and still is the best VP squadron that I've been in. I have served with VP-30, VP-44, VP-30, VP-22, VP-17, VP-9 (TAD), VP-47, VP-30, and currently with VP-45. Lost touch with alot of good people. If anyone knows me, or remembers me, lets chat..." [20JAN2001]

PERRY, AE2 Don donfperry@valornet.com "...I served with VP-47 (1972-1977) as a Second Mechanic then as a FE with Crew-1..." [E-Mail Updated 09JUN2014 | 13MAY2004]

PETERS, AW2 Timothy ttpeters@hotmail.com "...I was in VP-49 from January 1987 till December 1993. Then I did a shore tour at FASOTRAGRU DET NAS Jacksonville, Florida till May 1997, then transfered to VP-5 till December 1999 where I got out of the Navy. I missed it so much that in May 2000 I re-enlisted and now I am in VP-47 on the West coast. God bless the mighty P-3!..." [14OCT2000]

PETTIGREW, AX1 KARL Retired GOFORIT1111@WORLDNET.ATT.NET "...I SERVED WITH VP-47 AND MADE THE FIRST P-3 DEPLOYMENT TO NAHA/NS Sangley Point, Philippines. BEST PEOPLE I EVER SERVED WITH. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU..." [16JAN98]

PHILLIPS, AW2 Dale D. n7one@comcast.net "...I served with VP-47 (1969-1974) on Crew One and Seven as Radar Operator in alpha-bravo models and SS-3 (sensor station three). I would like to talk with anyone in the squadron at that time. Does anyone remember Bruce Mallibert? He was the only survivor of the Mid-Air at NAS Moffett Field, California (SEE: In Memorial for lost friends March 21st, 1991). He was AW3 also a radar operator..." [E-Mail Updated 13NOV2011 | E-Mail Updated 24APR2004 | E-Mail Updated 23JUN2003 | 01SEP2002]

PHILLIPS, AW1 Jim "JR" jimrphillips2@gmail.com "...I served with VS-29 (1964-1967), VT-29 (1967-1969) and VP-47 (1969-1974) as SS-1 and SS-2..." [21FEB2012]

PLUSKOTA, ADC Dennis Retired dspluskota@att.net "...I served with VPU-1 (1981-1984), VP-9 (1985-1988) at NAS Moffett Field, California with deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska (1985) and NAF Misawa, Japan / NAS Cubi Point, Philippines (1986 and 1987), VQ-1 (1988-1991) at NAS Agana, Guam with deployments to NAS Atsugi, Japan, NAS Cubi Point, Philippines, Masirah, Oman and NSA Bahrain, Oman, VXN-8 (1991-1993) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-30 (1994-1997) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-47 (1998-2000) at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and MCBH Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and retired as an ADC...." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 22JUN2014 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 28NOV2003 | 00XXX97]

POULSON, AW1 Tom Retired Hiburn8@aol.com "...Living in Ohio and now enlisted in the Postal Service as a Letter Carrier. I served with VP-4, VP-19, VP-30, VP-31 and VP-47. Had great times and I've got a lot of great memories of all the people that touched my life over the years. Sure would love to hear from some of you..." [BIO Updated 02FEB2006 | BIO Updated 19AUG2001 | 12MAY98]

PRAY, Dan C. Retired daniel_pray@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VP-22 from 1984 to 1987, VP-48 from 1987 to 1990, VP-31 1990 to 1992, VP-47 from 1992 to 1996, and then Executive Transport Department NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from 1996 to 1999. I retired in May of 1999. I was a FE. I am still presently flying as a FE with U. S. Customs P-3 Operations Center Corpus Christi, Texas..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 11AUG2009 | 26DEC2000]

PRICE, CPO Charles E. Retired cep71@gci.net "...I served with VP-47 as Aircrew in PBM's from March 1951 to 1953. Our overseas deployment was to NS Sangley Point, Philippines. I retired as a CPO on June 25, 1970 in Millington, Tenn..." [03NOV2003]

PYLE, ADCS Ernie Retired ernie@erniepyle.us "...NTC Great Lakes, Il. Feb 2, 1971 - Apr 27, 1971, NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee May 10, 1971 - Sep 10, 1971, VP-47 Dec 17, 1971 - Nov 21, 1974, VP-31 Nov 22, 1974 - June 1, 1974, NAS Chase Field, Beeville, Tx. Jun 13, 1974 - Nov 5, 1977, VQ-1 NAS Agana, Guam Feb 23, 1978 - Sep 9, 1980, NAVCRUITDIST St. Louis, Mo. Nov 25, 1980 - Oct 31, 1983, VQ-1 NAS Agana, Guam Nov 13, 1983 - May 5, 1987, and NAS Key West, Florida Jun 7, 1983 - Feb 28, 1991. Currently with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Risk Management Operations Manager, Retired, Huntsville, Tx. Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Risk Manager, Hamilton Unit, Bryan, Tx..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 30MAY2006 | BIO/E-Mail Updated 12DEC2001 | BIO/E-Mail Updated 28APR2000]


RADETICH, PO3 Andrew tradetich@comcast.net "...I served with VP-47 (1969-1972) with deployments to NS Sangley Point, Philippines and NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan..." [20MAR2014]

RAGONE, Daniel ragone767@aol.com "...I served VP-50 from mid 1990 till early 1992. I was the Public Affairs Officer, and Assistant Training Officer and most proudly 3p, 2p and finally PPC of various crews. I started off with CAC-7 which unfortunately was involved in the midair off the coast of San Diego with CAC-2 (SEE: In Memorial for lost friends March 21st, 1991). As one of the newest members of the crew, I was being alternated in on various missions with different crews, and missed the fateful mission on that day. I often think of my lost comrades, and regret their passing. From VP-50, I was assigned to VP-47 where I served as PPC/MC on CAC-3 with the best crew a pilot could wish to have. In VP-47 I was initially assigned as First Lt. Div officer, then as Quality Assurance Division Officer. From there I instructed with VT-28, and finally with the Instructor Training Unit in Wing Four, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. I have since separated from the Navy, and now fly the friendly skies with United Airlines as first officer on the 767/757 aircraft based in Los Angeles, Ca. I recognize a few names from the list of participants on this web site, and am happy to see you are all doing well. Take Care..." [14MAR2002]

RAGSDALE, AO1 Dave chillysurf@hotmail.com "...It's good to see alot of familiar names out there. I was in VP-10 as an IFO from 82-86 Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) from 86-88, VP-44 fm 88-91, NALO NAS New Orleans, Louisiana 91-94, VP-47 from 94-96, and now I'm back in VP-10 as an Flt Eng. Drop me a line..." [11APR98]

RALOH, Dennis dwr@mfire.com "...Was in VP-47 from Oct.69 to Oct.70. Flew 2nd mech in crew 5 during this time. One of the best times of my life. Am now teaching school in Nashville, Tn. Ph. 615 262 1067..." [04NOV2004]

RIANS, AWCS Jeffrey G. Retired jeffr@mayoaviation.com "...I served with VP-46 NAS Moffett Field, California from 1976 to1978 (Deployed to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan 1976 and NAS Adak, Alaska 1978), VS-41 NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1979 to 1982, ASWM U.S.S. Ranger from 1982 t 1984, ASWOC NAS Sigonella, Sicily from 1984 to 1986, ASWOC NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1986 to 1988, and NPRDC from 1988 to 1991. Would like to hear from any old Shipmates..." [26APR2004]

RAITHEL, CAPTAIN Al Jr Retired Araitheljr@aol.com "...A Naval Aviator,I trained in ATU-10/ATU-501 (PBM), FAETULANT (PBY/R4D), VP-23 (P2V-7), VP-31 (SP2H/P3A/P3B), and served as a Patrol Plane Commander in VP-45 [PBM and P5M-1](53-56), VX-6 [P2V-7 Ski](56-57), VP28 [SP2H and P-3A] (63-66), and served as XO/CO VP-47 [P-3B] (68-70). Served in ASW System Projects Office [Nav Mat PM-4](66-68) as Patrol Aircraft Plans Engineer during development of the P-3C..." [22FEB2000]

RALPH, Dennis dwralph@webtv.net "...I was in VP-31, VP-28, VP-47, and VP-50, from 1968 thru 1971..." [12OCT98]

RAMEY, Barb myrockydream@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from December 1987 to September 1991. That was when we were at NAS Moffett Field, California. Those were some really great years getting to know some super people enlisted and officers alike. In September 1991 I transferred to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii where I worked in the BEQ and BEQ Warehouse until January 1993 when it was time to say bye. I miss the Navy even now and loved everyday I served with some of the finest people on the planet..." [15AUG2009]

RAMPENTHAL, Charles E. ("Chas") chasramp@aol.com "...I joined VP-19 in July of 1989, during its deployment to NAS Misawa, Japan. Initially, I was a part of CAC-5 (PPC - LCDR Jim Greunke/2P - LT Tom ("OY") Vhay/TACCO - LT Scott Steadman/ NAV - ??), but moved on to CAC-9 (PPC - LT Paul Tibbetts, LT Ross Velardi/TACCO - LT Dave Brewer/NAV - LTJG Usher Barnum) for the second NAS Misawa, Japan Deployment (August 1990-Feb 1991). Don't worry - I didn't forget all the guys who "worked" for a living - Jeff Whitesell, Ken Ruber, Phil Amato, Foushee, Stubby, "Cubi-Dog," Mauer, and a lot of others I can't remember (too many cocktails, no doubt!). We had some good times! I particularly remember watching the two "deployment movies" (Bill & Ted and Raising Arizona) way too many times, trying to continue the legacy of the Big Red Band after Pat "the AxeMan" Reynolds left, standing Ready 1 with Kahuna on New Years' Eve 1991, and a little "combat action" in the Gulf! In the middle of the Decommissioning in 1991, I (briefly) went over to VP-47, until they figured out that they already had too many pilots! So, at the end of 1991, with all the "fun" pilot billets gone, I gave recruiting a shot (in my hometown of St. Louis). That experience taught me a few things: (1) that I was not really "in" to recruiting; (2) that No. 1 was most likely due to flying too much, finishing my BS [the perils of being a NAVCAD] at SIU, and having way too much fun; and (3) that I didn't want to end up living in my "hometown!" So, I departed the NAV in December of 1999, went to law school in Los Angeles (USC - Go Trojans!) from 1995-1998, and have been working as an attorney ever since. Currently, I am a corporate attorney for a large firm in Boston, Testa Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP. I would love to catch up with any fellow BIG RED Alum who even remotely remember who I am. Cheers!..." [09MAY2002]

RECKER, Vince homereckersok@aol.com "...I was in VP-22 from October 1992 until disestablishment followed by 2 years with VP-47. I'm now part of the Oklahoma Navy and will be flying with VQ-4. Blue Geese Lead The Way!..." [E-Mail Updated 27MAY2005 | 12NOV97]

REECE, Nathan R. nrreece@aol.com "...I was a photomate in VP-47, 1956-57. Made one NAS Iwakuni, Japan cruise, then to VU-7/ NAS North Island, San Diego, California Det. Out as PH-2 1959. Back in for no good reason 1964-66! Ship's Co. USS Ranger CVA-61, Then was shanghied by a wise a---- little red headed Lt (His initials were; Haggarty!) to VAH-5 and went aboard CVA-66 America. I only regret that I didn't take better advantage of my time in VP-47! Former VP-9 shutterbug, RNB put onto this site. What a shock to see a friend of mine all over it. "Satch" Beasley is a local commercial pilot who is intensly searching for info. on his Dad's crash. Please help. I recently retired from U.S. Postal Service. The worst day in the Navy was better than the best day there. Seaplanes Forever!..." [05FEB2000]

REICHENBACH, Carl carl_reichenbach@hotmail.com "...I was an AW from 1985-1994. Served with VP-47 (86-90), VP-30 (90-94). Currently an NCC at Cecil Field, Florida..." [29AUG98]

REINHARDT, LCDR Dick Retired rr2mohawk@bendbroadband.com "...Served with VP-47, FASRON-110, VP-731, and VP-48 between 1949 and 1948 as an AL & later AT. Left VP-48 at NAS Iwakuni, Japan for OCS in the Spring of 1958 as an AT1. Later served as a "Black Shoe" in DD's, Cruiser's etc. Currently in Bend Or. Would like to swap a "sea story" or two with any old Shipmates so inclined!..." [E-Mail Updated 30JAN2006 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 20FEB2002 | 30SEP97]

RELYEA, ATR2 David B. daverelyea@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from July 1957 to September 1959 as an ATR-2 on Crew-6 (ECM/Radio Operator). RD-6 PBM-2 BUNO: 135520 was a great boat. We flew many missions out of NAS Iwakuni, Japan and where once intercepted by two MIG-17s near Valadivostock, Russia. We were outbound after a JATO take off from NS Sangley Point, Philippines and lost the port engine about 700 ft above Corregidor at the mouth of Manila Bay. We made a very quick and hard landing - our pilots were well trained! These two episodes happened within 3 months and we started getting nervous. We got a trip to Hong Kong! I enjoyed the Navy-what an experience..." [16AUG2009]

RICHARDS, AWC John Retired bigjohn@tbcc.cc.or.us "...I would like to hear from all who remember me. I served in VP-47 '65-'68, NS Sangley Point, Philippines AIMD '68-'69, VP-31 '70-'71, HSL-31 Ream Field CA '72-'73, (USS Cook 5/73-9/73), VP-50 '73-'76, VP-31 '77-'79, VP-48 '79-'83, and retired 1983..." [28MAY99]

RICHARDSON, James D. jdriches@hotmail.com "...Served with VP-47 from 1981 thru 1985 as Aviation Maintenanceman. My first MMCO was LT Fred Lundgren. It is the year 2000 and we are still in contact. While I was in the Patrol Community only a short time, my closest naval friends to this day have come from the Patrol community..." [06DEC2000]

RICKER, CDR Dave ricker@ime.net "...I am currently XO of VPU-1. I was attached to VP-19 83-86, VP-22 93, VP-47 94-95..."

RIDALL, ATN2 Glenn Jr. glennridall@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1955-57 as radar operator with crew #7. Stationed out of NAS Alameda, California with overseas duty at NAS Iwakuni, Japan. I was discharged in 1969 after serving at the Kingsville, Tx, NAS Dallas, Texas, and NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Would like to hear from some of my old Shipmates of VP-47. I have a number of pictures from those days. Will be willing to share them with anyone interested..." [BIO Updated 25DEC2001 | 19NOV2000]

ROBERTSON, LCDR Mark Retired markhrobertson55@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1977 to 1981 as a SS-1 Beartrap Crew-1. I am looking for the 1981 cruisebook from NAF Misawa, Japan. I paied for the book but transferred before it was published. Would love to hear from old Shipmates..." [14APR2010]

ROBINS, DAVID DCMROBINS@WORLDNET.ATT.NET "...MY FATHER SERVED IN VP-47 FROM 1968 TO 1970. HE WAS THE PLANE COMANDER OF CREW 6. ARE ANY OF HIS OLD CREW STILL AROUND THAT MADE THE TRANSITION FROM THE P-3B TO P-3C AND THEN TO VEITNAM 69 TO 70..." [08FEB98]

ROSSMAN, Mark nerickso@arrowhead.lib.mn.us "...I served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California from 1967 to 1970. I lived in MN since, married 33 years, 4 daughters, and now retired. I am his oldest daughter and have been looking for some of his old friends. Please email me if you are one of them. Thanks!..." [01OCT2003]

ROST, AT1(AW) Les lrost@aboutmontana.net "...Hello to all the VP'rs out there. It's really a fairly small community, and the same names pop up fairly often. I was attached to VP-47 from '73 to '76 as w/c 210 ground-pounder/supervisor. I'd like to hear from anybody who'd care to swap lies about how much fun we had in NAS Adak, Alaska after being in Guam for so long. I'm still in the reserves after taking a long vacation. I'm now with the Totems of VP-69 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. A great squadron, if any of you want to smell a little jp exhaust in the morning, just for old-times sake..." [14FEB2001]

ROWE, Bryan S. babyboats63@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1985 to 1987..." [25MAY2011]

RUIZ, Thomas J. truiz@lucent.com "...I was an ECM/JULIE operator on the P-3B in VP-47 from 1966 through 1968. One of the best experience of my life. I was with them when we deployed to U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand and NS Sangley Point, Philippines, NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam and NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan. Never saw any of my crewmates after I got out and never flew again. Now a General Manager with Lucent Technologies with over 30 years of service..." [27JAN2005]

RUTIGLIANO, Andrew MidLifJedi@aol.com "...My first VP squadron was VP-46 in the wonderful days of NAS Moffett Field, California from 1987 until 1990. Left the community as a photographer for Shore duty. Returned to the community as a JAFO to VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and made the move to MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, from 1998 until 2001..." [29OCT2002]


SEGANOS, Mark seganosm@hawaii.rr.com or seganosm@cpwp.navy.mil "...Great to see a couple names that I recognize. I served in VQ-2 in 82-86, then VP-47 in 89-93, then went to VP-46 from 93-98. I am presently in MCBH Kaneohe Bay Hawaii serving COMPATRECFORPAC (formally known as COMPATWINGSPAC). Let me hear from ya'll..." [E-Mail Updated 04FEB2000 | 06JUL99]

SATTERFIELD, AEC Dick Retired gemstar@ibm.net"...Started with P-3's in WST, NATC Pax Riv. in '64 then to VP-9 and VP-31. Retired from VP-47 in Jan of '76 as an AEC. One outfit not mentioned is Weapons Systems Test Div. as a P-3 operator. We had the first one - 148276, a convert -ed Electra which was also a prototype Charlie. The other two were 148889 and 152141 which were used as test-beds for test and evaluation of new weapons systems. Interesting tour. Retired for a second time (from IBM) and live in San Jose, CA. Dick Satterfield, former AE ed Electra which also was the Charlie prototype..."

SAXTON, Jim jfs0758@eagle.sbeach.navy.mil "...I served in VP-6 from 65-70, VP-31 from 74-77 and VP-47 from 77-80. I threw in a little shore duty in-between at NAS Bermuda, NAF El Centro, and NAS Key West. Two tours onboard the USS Kitty Hawk 83-87 and 92-93 and one tour onboard USS Tarawa. Retired in 93. Would like to hear from any of my former Shipmates. "AO's forever..." [21OCT98]

SCHLAGHECK, AT3 Paul pjschlag@comcast.net "...I was a Radar/Radio AT3 on Baker Able 1 (BA1) with VP-47 from January 1952 to March 1955. We had two tours in NAS Iwakuni, Japan. At that time the squadron insignia was a Walt Disney caractute sitting on a depth charge heading downward. I was one of the survivors of the 09JUN54 (SEE: VP-47 Memorial) crash of 1 boat into Yaka Shima Island south of Japan. I stayed in NAS Iwakuni, Japan and the rest of the crew went to Hong Kong for R&R. They never came back. VP-47 made a man of me. To this day I always remember the good times..." [E-Mail Updated 19JAN2003 | 19JAN99]

SCHMIEDER, Bob (The Tweeter) schmdr@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 12-77 until 12-81 as an IFT on crews eight, and one. I was the squadron NATOPS evaluator for the IFT's during my last two years as well a member Bear Trap project. I have come across several familiar names on the VP-47 page and will surely recognize more in time. I am now the systems manager for a wireless telemetry provider to the public utility sector located in Kansas City..." [24JUL2005]

SCHNEIDER, Phil Retired jepsan@ibm.net or jeppgs@ibm.net "...Was with VP-47 when we shifted out of P5M boats and into first P-3A's 1965-66. Left service in 68 but couldn't stay away. Returned in late 1973 with VP-60, then VP-90. After that went to Detroit (VP-93) and retired with 25 years in Reserves. On the outside world I worked very much in aviation industry with P-3 Super B........ (The best of the best)!!!..." WebSite: http://www.jepsan.com[Updated 25JAN98]

SCHUELKE, Roy rzs60@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington-Phillipines and did two tours to Vietnam between 1963 and 1966. Seaplanes then P-3's. Interested in anyone that was in VP-47 during that time. I was a radioman on RD-12, then RD-5. Still don't listen to anything with static..." [23FEB2004]

SEAL, Orville O. atcsseal@msn.com "...Served with VP-43 Oct 46 to Oct 48, VP-47 49 to 51 with a short stint in VP-46 in 1950. Retired 1964 as an AOC..." [E-Mail Updated 28MAR2002 | Updated 18MAR98]

SECHLER, Bill jobillsler@aol.com "...VP-44, 61-64, flew P5, P-2 & P-3; VP-31 (Det A) original P-3 RAG at NAS Moffett Field, California, 64-67; VP-47, 73-75. >5,000 hrs P-3 pilot time..." [21MAR98]

Memorial Picture "...SEHORN, Don...It is with sadness that I report that a fellow VP-47 Shipmate, LCDR Don Sehorn has passed away from cancer on 9-13-2006. Don was also a vital member of Observation Squadron Sixty Seven (VO-67). Don attended the last VP-47 Reunion in Las Vegas and talked about it often to his VO-67 Shipmates. Fair winds and following seas...Duane Andre, CDR, USN (Ret) dandre@cox.net..." [03OCT2006]

SEHORN, LCDR Donald D. Retired Subfighter@aol.com "...Enlisted 1949. First Navy School was Naval Mine Warfare in Yorktown, VA. In 1958 changed to Aviation Electricians Mate and did a short WestPac on the USS BonHomme Richard and then to VAHM-10/VP-17. Commissioned Ens.(LDO) in 1961 and then to VP-31 (the RAG), after that to VP-47 and on to VO-67 (which, in spite of what everyone thinks, was not an all volunteer squadron). From the OBSRON I was with VAQ-130 in NAS Alameda, California. From there to the USS Hancock and then to Staff, Fleet Air Alameda. Retired in 1973 and am about to do it again, I think. I would really appreciate hearing from any of my old Shipmates. I would drop a few names but there are so many and it has been so many years..." [05JAN99]

SELUS, Douglas Van douglasvan@msn.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1967 to 1972 at NAS Moffett Field, California. I was assigned to the Airframes Shop..." [26MAY2004]

SEWELL, AFCM Donald A. Retired dsewell2@austin.rr.com "...I was VP for almost 30 years. Started in 1965 with VP-47, VP-10 in 1972, VP-31 in 1973, VP-47 in 1973, VP-6 in 1985 Also NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, NAS Adak, Alaska and NAS Moffett Field, California. Served as F/E for 14 years. Removed from Flight upon making E9. Served as CMC NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, NAS Adak, Alaska, NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-47, VP-6 and at AIMSO NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Did a tour with VXE-6 as Maintenance MCPO..." [E-Mail Updated 24MAR2004 | 29SEP99]

SHANKS, ABH3 Louis H. harley_rider_cool@yahoo.com "...I was with VP-47, NAS Moffett Field, California from 1972 until 1975. We mourned the loss of our crew mates that fatal day. I left the Navy in 1975, and sought a career in law enforcement of which I have done over the last 30 some years. I am now serving veterans as a VA police Officer in Phoenix, AZ. Hello to all my crew mates at VP-47. God Speed..." [09JUL2007]

SHELBY, AEC Allen Retired a.shelby@verizon.net "...I served in VP-47 from 1988-1991. I retired from NAMTRDET 1012 NAS Whidbey Island, Washington in 1995. I am now an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector (Avionics) and loving every minute of retirement from the Navy. E-Mail me if you want to trade stories..." [E-Mail Updated 24NOV2001 | E-Mail Updated 15MAY99 | E-Mail Updated 05FEB99 | 05AUG98]

SHELTON, DEAN bkbcards@aol.com"...Hello to all my friends and aquaintances out there. VP-47 64-67; VP-17 67-69; Hal-3 71/72; VP-5 72-74; VP-8 77-80, was an AX to start then AT finally about to transfer to MA when I left the Nav. Flew radio and radar westpac and east. enjoyed my time. Miss a lot of friends. good fortune to all and keep em airborne. In memory of those we lost*****..."

SHERMAN, Maurice lazymho@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VP-47 from September 1959 to June 1962. I was Panel Operator aboard RD-11 during the 1959/1960 NAS Iwakuni, Japan Cruise and RD-4 when RAD in June of 1962..." [02OCT2006]

SHOGREN, AE3 Ronald shogir2@bresnan.net "...I was in VP-47 from August 1962 to August 1964. I was an AE3 and also was the squadron's logs & records yeoman in 1964..." [07OCT2006]

Shipmate Requested Name Removal  [Shipmate Removed 22JUN2002 | 14JUN2002]

SIKORSKI, AWC Dennis Retired awcski@pacbell.net "...I served with VP-1 from 1971 to 1977, VP-31 from 1977 to 1981, VP-47 from 1981 to 1984, VP-31 from 1984 to 1987, and VP-47 from 1987 to 1991..." [05MAY2004]

SKINNER, Rear Admiral W. Mark http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/people/flags/biographies/skinnerwm.html "...Rear Admiral W. Mark Skinner - Commander - Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division - NAS China Lake, California and NAS Point Mugu, California - Rear Admiral Mark Skinner is a native of Houston, Texas, and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in June 1977. He completed flight training and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1979. He reported first to VP-23. He then served as an FRS Instructor Pilot aboard VP-31 until 1984. After graduating from Test Pilot School in 1985, he reported to Force Warfare Aircraft Test Directorate where he was recognized as Directorate Test Pilot of the Year in 1986. He served as the Communications Officer in USS Ranger and then went to VP-6 as the Safety/NATOPS Officer, then Maintenance Officer. In 1991, Rear Adm Skinner joined the staff of CPW-2, serving as Current Operations Officer. He served as Executive Officer for VP-47 and subsequently took command in 1994. He then reported to Combined Task Force 72/57 as Operations Officer, directing VP forces participating in Operations Vigilant Sentinel and Southern Watch, and PRC-Taiwan Contingency Operations. After graduating from Naval Postgraduate School as a Conrad Scholar, he was awarded the Department of the Navy award for excellence in financial management, and the Rear Admiral Thomas R. McClellan award for excellence in administrative sciences. After completing the Defense Systems Management College Program Manager Course, he joined Naval Force Aircraft Test Squadron as Chief Test Pilot in 1996. As Commanding Officer of Naval Force Aircraft Test Squadron, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, in 1998, he was later selected as Program Manager for a Chief of Naval Operations Special Project. He served as the Acting Deputy Program Executive Officer for Air ASW, Assault and Special Mission Programs until February 2002. Rear Adm. Skinner assumed command of NAVAIR Weapons Division in August 2004 with responsibility for Navy weapons and systems RDT&E and fleet support capabilities at NAS China Lake, California and NAS Point Mugu, California. His awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (4 awards), Navy Commendation Medal (2 awards), Navy Achievement Medal, and other unit deployment citations and ribbons..." [20MAR2005]

SKOGLUND, AXCS Michael Retired mike.skoglund@hotmail.com "...I served with VW-1 (EC-121) at NAS Agana, Guam from 1969 to 1970, VA-145 (A-6) at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, AE to AX School in NAS Memphis, Tennessee mid 1970's, VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1975 to 1978, VP-47 from 1978 to 1980, Recruiting Duty in NAS (NRD) Minneapolis, Minnesota from 1980 to 1982, ASWOC NAS Keflavik, Iceland from 1983 to 1985, Recruiting Duty in NAS (NRD) Dallas, Texas and retired February 1990. Where did it all go?..." [28DEC2009]

SMITH, AT2 Albert Lee dogmeat@mediaone.net "...I served in VP-47 from Nov-92 to Nov-97. I was around for the ditch in the desert. I've never heard of anyone else bouncing back so well from such an event. We could attribute that to the fact that we we're a family. We laughed and cried as one. God knows we partied as one, as it should be. We could all learn a lesson from this. Nothing is as improtant as the people you're with. Y'all take care..." [09MAY98]

SMITH, Arthur Earl c/o his daughter Pamela Stone pstone@pc-intouch.com "...My father Arthur Earl Smith (passed away 11/97) served with VP-47 from 6/55 to 6/5...I know that he was at NATC Bainsbridge Maryland from 6/55 to 9/55, then NATC Norman Oklahoma from 9/55 to 10/55, then NATC NAS Memphis, Tennessee from 10/55 to 9/56, then NAAS Kingsville TX from 9/56 to 6/57, then the last NAS Alameda, California with VP-47 from 6/57 to 3/59. Dad's last day of service when he received his Honorable Discharge was 6/26/59. I also know that he was in NAS Iwakuni, Japan either May-Oct or June Nov 58-59. I sure hope I find some of Dad's former Shipmates. My father passed away in 11/97 and I was just recently informed at the end of Jan. 99 and I am getting his remains and having a Navy service for him on 3/2/99 at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, in Gustine California. I do need to move quickly since the services will be on March 2, 1999 at 2pm. I had a dream that only one of his navy buddies came, so I must be persistant. I really appreciate your help. I even had trouble in getting his remains and had to contract our local government to contact the mortuary to have his remains released to the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine, California. Also, my mother wanted to add that we are also looking for Paul A. Standridge, he served with my father and he was at their wedding, I believe best man...Thanks..." [13FEB99]

SMITH, AOC Billy L. Sr. Retired lets@gte.net "...I was a former memeber of "boat bottom" airlines (VP-40 and VP-47) and VP-24. I am going to try and make the meeting in Pensacola..." [ICQ #6557733][26NOV99]

SMITH, AZ1 James Jr. Retired jr254611@netzero.net "...My life was open up to a whole new world when I was transferred to NAS Moffett Field, California, the Golden Swordmen (VP-47) and VP-31 (1975-1980). All of my Shipmates were great. We learn a lot about ourselves and each other. The deployments to NAS Misawa, Japan were trips I will never forget. Where are the boys in the band? I rode with them to every gig in Japan, helping them set up. Thanks VP for molding me to the man I am today..." [19JUL2002]

SMITH, HM2 Kathleen (Thill) kttykat@cybermax.net "...I was in VP-47 when the aircraft ditched. Talk about your heart in your throat when you hear the news. We were all so busy and worried at the time of the mishap that I didn't get to tell my Shipmates "Well Done!" Being the corpsman in the squadron at the time, I really was afraid that I was taking care of part of my family. I'm so happy you guys were flying under a lucky cloud. Take care and may you always continue to fly under that cloud..." [02MAY98]

SNOUFFER, Raymond Warren 104656.633@compuserve.com"...4/88 - 7/91 VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California P-3C Aircraft Commander...9562 S. Beck Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA, Home: 602-598-3082..."

SORRELL, AX3 Bill wsorrell7@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 form 1981 through 1985. Deployed to NAS Misawa, Japan in 1982 and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan in 1984. Remember the "Tron Busters"!! Many great memories and "life experiences". Finished my Navy life in VP-31 from 1985 through 1986. The VP Navy was the life. NSF Diego Garcia in 1982 and NAS Adak, Alaska in 1984. Also stationed at NAS Cubi Point, Philippines from 1979 through 1981. I'm now an Avionics Tech at United Airlines. Commercial Aircraft are sooooo tame, I sure miss the good old days. Would enjoy hearing from former Shipmates..." [15NOV2000]

SORRENSON, AD3 Ken kens@lakewebs.net "...I was with VP-47 during the 52/53 tour to NAS Iwakuni, Japan. I was an AD3 ground crew member with Paul Ogle and R.E. Vantine. My best friend Leroy "Zeke" Graff and I were together for all 4 years and were transferred to NATC Kingsville, Texas just before the next tour, where we got out of the navy. If anyone remembers us feel free to communicate..." [09DEC2001]

SPOENTGEN, Neil sponge@mediaone.net "...I'm an IFT currently in VP-16 since Jan 96. Started in VP-47 88 thru 93, with a stop at NAWC Warminster (93-96) before they moved to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. E-mail me if u know me..." [17JUN99]

SPROWL, Robert "Low Gear" RGSROWL@worldnet.att.net "...Robert "Low Gear" Sprowl RGSROWL@worldnet.att.net..." [15MAY98]

STAFFORD, AVCM (AW/NAC) Jim Retired jimmcpo@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-22 ( NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii) from 1956 thru 1959, VP-48 1967 ( NAS Moffett Field, California) thru 1970 and VP-47 ( NAS Moffett Field, California) 1982 thru 1985. Was an aircrew for most of my time as radioman radar operator and IFT. Made deployments to NAS Iwakuni, Japan, NAS Kodiak, Alaska, NAS Adak, Alaska, NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, NAS Misawa, Japan, NS Sangley Point, Philippines, NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand, NSF Diego Garcia and the rest of the world. Was In VP-48 when they lost the aircraft on the NAS Iwakuni, Japan deployment. Still have all my cruise books will check the information. Served with VW-13 January 1960 to July 1963, First Technician and Birdseye Crew. In touch with Dave Ayers also served with VW-13 same time. We both made AT1 and were transferred to Instructor duty in Millington. Lots of good times in NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, Prestwick, Scotland, and the NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal I'm flying as a Commercial Pilot right now. Just a note for my VW-13 Shipmates. Another Shipmates from the 1960 - 63 time frame was a friend who joined the Navy with me Harold Shader ADR2 worked on the line crew in NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada. He also made some of the Dets to NAS Keflavik, Iceland as well. He lives out here in Western Colorado with me as well. Sure hope I don't miss the next Reunion. I also have another good friend Dave Ayers who is a flight instructor for Japan Airlines in California who flew with us during the same time period..." [BIO Updated 20FEB2007 | E-Mail Updated 02JAN2007 | E-Mail Updated 03DEC2002 | BIO Updated 18SEP99 | 19MAY99]

STARNES, AMHC(NAC) Dennis Retired dstarnes10@carolina.rr.com "...I served with VP-8 (1978-1981) and flew as a FE, Naval Aviation Maintenance TRAining (NAMTRA) (1981-1984) and VP-47 (1984-1988) at NAS Moffett Field, California, NAS Millington, Tennessee, VP-8 at NAS Brunswick, Maine (1990-1993) and retired (1993)..." [10JAN2014]

STEPHENS, Dave stephensndc@aol.com "...I served in VP-47 as a SS-1 and SS-4 from 1977-1980 with deployments to NAF Misawa, Japan, NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, and NAS Adak, Alaska and Beartrap dets to NSF Diego Garcia, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, NAS Midway Island, NAS Agana, Guam, and NAS Kwajalein, Marshall Islands. I transitioned to SS-3 when I moved across the runways to VP-31, eventually joining the CNAP team as the P-3C SS-3 evaluator. I was selected for the LDO aviator program but was not able to complete the training due to a slight astigmatism so I left the Navy. I worked in the corporate world for about 15 years before becoming a college professor. I see a lot of familiar names and I hope life is treating all of my old Shipmates well!..." [11FEB2011]

STUART, George L. lithouse@norfolk.infi.net "...VPMS7/VP-47 Crew 9 Mar 48-Aug 52..." [07FEB98]

STUMP, Debra (stumper) dstump@lynchburg.net "...I was in VP-19 from December 1989 until we decommissioned, then I went to VP-47. I got out of the Navy in 1993. With both squadrons, I mostly worked at AIMD in the powerplants shop! What a great experience that was!! During deployments, I was TAD to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. I just moved back to Virginia, my home state, a year and a half ago. After living in the Bay Area of California since I got out of the Navy. I am in search of hoping to get in touch with some former Shipmates. And also, if anyone has a copy of the videotape from VP-19, I would love to see about getting a copy of that. Thanks in advance!! I look forward to any responses..." [30JAN2000]

Memorial Picture Shipmate Pix "...SWAIN, MCPO Jack Eugene...I must sadly report that my friend, Jack Swain, passed away September 11th, 2018. Jack served with VP-42 (1958-1962) and VP-47 (1964-1968). I served with Jack in VP-42 and you can see some pictures of him during his earlier years as a member of Crew 1..." Contributed by AT2 Mark M. SATTERLEE msatterlee6@msn.com [23OCT2018]

SWAIN, JACK MCPOSWAIN@AOL.COM "...Would like to hear from any Shipmates who served in VP-42 from 1958 to 1962 or VP-47 from 1964 to 1968..." [29NOV99]

SWAIN, MMCO Jeff js_swain@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California (September 1985 to December 1990). Currently serving with VP-5 as the MMCO and will be retiring in November 2009. I'd be interested in hearing from any long lost Shipmates who may still be out there!..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 25FEB2009 | 30OCT99]

SWITZER, Charlie CharlieGO@aol.com "...VP-47 pilot in P-5's and P-3's 1964-1967. Excited about the Nov. 5-8 VP-47 Reunion, Arlington Hyatt Hotel, Arlington, VA. Contact: RNARMI@aol.com..." [07JUN98]


TAILLEFER, AMH3 Jessica L. jesslynn71@icloud.com "...I served with VP-47 (1990-1993) in Airframes and Corrosion Control..." [E-Mail Updated 26NOV2014 | 14NOV98]

TEIS, Tim tjeteis@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-19 (12/1983-12/1986) and VP-47 (06/1993-06/1995)..." [E-Mail Updated 18FEB2013 | 25JAN2009]

THOMAS, Bob W. BOBCO@COINET.COM "...I served with VP-47 (BA-8) from October 1949 to July 1952. I would love to share some "close calls" during the Korean War and VP-47. Thanks..." [BIO Udated 29JUN2003 | 26APR2003]

THOMASON, HM2 Scott "Doc" cst615sljss@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1979-1982) at NAS Moffett Field, California with two deployments two NAF Misawa, Japan..." [07JUL2019]

THOMPSON, LT Wayne E. thompson@ncats.net "...I served in VP-47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington and NAS Moffett Field, California 1963 through July 1966. Deployed to NS Sangley Point, Philippines and Naha, Okinawa..." [12DEC99]

THORNTON, MIKE eastsouth@iswt.com "...I was attached to VP-4 from 80-84, and VP-31 from 79-80, also reserve at VP-47 after duty at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Would sure like to hear from some of our Shipmates at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. if you want to contact me just E-mail me at my address. I'll be sure to write you back..." [04JAN98]

TOMASCAK, CDR Pete Shipmate PixCirca 2005 http://reserves.navy.mil/ "...CDR Tomascak was born in Minneapolis , Minnesota. After graduating from the University of Minnesota in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology, he was commissioned an Ensign throught the NROTC program and reported to NAS Pensacola, Florida for flight training. He was designated a Naval Aviator in June 1988 at the NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. Upon completion of the P-3CU-III FRS training syllabus at Patrol Squadron THRITY-ONE (VP-31), CDR Tomascak reported to the "Golden Swordsmen" of Patrol Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VP-47) at NAS Moffett Field, California. During this tour form 1988-1992, CDR Tomascak completed three separate six-month deployments. The first was to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan followed by the second to NAS Adak, Alaska and the third, a split deployment between NAS Cubi Point, Philippines and NAF Misawa, Japan. During his time at VP-47, CDR served as Personnel Officer, Quality Assurance Officer and Assistant Operations Officer. His qualifications included Mission Commander, NATOPS Instructor Pilot, Patrol Plane Commander and Maintenance Check Pilot. CDR Tomascak was then selected for the Personnel Exchange Program (PEP) and reported to Number 11 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, Edinburgh South Australia in December 1992. There he conducted maritime operations throughout the Pacific Rim and served as Pilot Training Officer, Mission Commander, Patrol Plane Check Captain, Patrol Plane Commander and Maintenance Check Pilot. In March of 1995 CDR Tomascak reported to the "Old Buzzards" of Patrol Squadron Special Projects Unit One (VPU-1) NAS Brunswick, Maine. During this tour he served as Safety/NATOPS Officer, Assistant Aviation Maintenance Officer, Aviation Maintenance Office, and Operations Officer. His qualifications include Mission Commander, NATOPS Instructor Pilot, Patrol Plane Commander and Maintenance Check pilot. In 2000 CDR Tomascak and his crew won the esteemed "Liberty Bell" trophy for ASW excellence during an extremely competitive fleet-wide ASW competition. This was the first Liberty Bell award in the command's history. CDR Tomascak has amassed over 4500 pilot hours and over 6000 hours of total time in the P-3C aircraft. His personal decorations include the Strike/Flight Air Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 awards) and various campaign and unit awards...." [19JUN2005]

TOMLINSON, AO2 Eddie L. bigedleb2@aol.com "...VP-47 1971 to 1974, NAS Moffett Field, California, AO2 Crew 7, "Magnificent Seven". Deployed to NAS Adak, Alaska with the first WestPac P-3C. Second deployment of three plane detachments at NAS Adak, Alaska and NAS Agana, Guam..." [19SEP2005]

TROMBA, John michaelsen2@netzero.com "...I served with VP-47 (1976-1979), WINGSPAC Staff (1979-1980), CPW-10 (1980-1981), CTG 72.8 (1981) and VP-50 (1985-1987). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 13APR2013 | 13MAR98]

TURLINGTON, Jay jturlington@hotmail.com "...Currently in VQ-1, served in VP-30, VP-31, VP-40, VP-50, VP-9, VP-47 and one non-flying tour to recruiting (mistake). Looking to hear from folks from the past. Looking forward to retirement, time for a change! Let me hear from ya..." [11JUL99]

TURNBOW, AME Kris turnbowkp@att.net "...I served with VP-47 (1972-1975) and worked in the Rigger Shop. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 10NOV2014 | 04OCT98]

TURNER, AO3 Leonard I. crlt@uswest.net "...I served with VP-47 from 1963-1966 as a member of Crew 11. I made the WestPac cruise in 1964-1965 in the P5 and then with the P-3 to Okinawa in 1966. Would love to hear from any of my Shipmates..." [22DEC2002]

TURVOLD, CDR Wade D. Shipmate Pix http://www.nol.navy.mil/homepages/vp4/xo/ExecutiveOfficer.htm "...Commander Wade D. Turvold was raised in Aiea, Hawaii. He attended the United States Naval Academy and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in May 1989, graduating with Merit. After completing flight training at NAS Pensacola, Florida and Mather AFB, California, he was designated a Naval Flight Officer in August 1990. Commander Turvold then completed initial P-3 training in VP-31, at NAS Moffett Field, California. Following this training, Commander Turvold reported to VP-6 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii in March 1991. He served as Public Affairs Officer and Legal Officer while attached to VP-6. During this tour, Commander Turvold deployed to NAS Adak, Alaska and NAF Misawa, Japan and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. Following the decommissioning of VP-6 in March, 1993, Commander Turvold reported to VP-9, also based at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. While assigned to VP-9, Commander Turvold completed a NSF Diego Garcia and Masirah, Omandeployment, and served as Readiness Officer and NFO NATOPS Officer. During this tour, he participated in peacekeeping operations in Somalia. In July 1994, Commander Turvold reported to VP-30 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. While assigned to VP-30 he served as the NFO Schedules Officer, Fleet NATOPS Primary NFO Evaluator, and NFO Training Officer. Commander Turvold reported to the United States SIXTH Fleet Staff in July 1997, embarked in USS LASALLE (AGF 3), homeported in Gaeta, Italy. There he served as the Assistant Undersea Warfare Officer, Maritime Patrol Aircraft Operations Officer and Assistant Submarine Operations Officer while deployed to the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Commander Turvold also performed duties as Operations Division Officer, Admiral's Barge Officer, and served as Battle Watch Officer during the Kosovo conflict. Commander Turvold reported to the United States Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island in August 1999, graduating with Distinction in June 2000. There he earned a Masters Degree in National Defense and Security Affairs. Following this tour, he underwent P-3 refresher training at VP-30. In December 2000, Commander Turvold joined VP-47 based at MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, where he served as the Tactics Officer, Training Officer and Operations Officer. While at VP-47, he completed two deployments, one to NSF Diego Garcia, NSA Bahrain, and Oman, and the second to NAF Misawa, Japan and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In February 2003, Commander Turvold became the Weapons Tactics Unit Officer in Charge for Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group, serving in VP-30 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. In April 2005, Commander Turvold assumed the duties as Executive Officer, VP-4 while deployed to NSA Bahrain. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with three Gold Stars), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (with two Gold Stars), and numerous unit and campaign awards..." [19APR2005]

TYREE, AMEC Robert E. (Bob) bobmavis@msn.com "...I would like to say my tour of duty with VP-47 was one of my best douring my 22 years of the U S Navy. My tour with VP-47 was 1966 to 1969. Two WestPac, NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan with one trip to U-Tapao and one to NS Sangley Point, Philippines with a time in NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam was the high light of my Naval career. Hi to all my good buddies out there..." [28SEP2002]


ULBERT, Tony (Bone) blarp66@yahoo.com "...I was an acoustic operator in VP-47 from 1986-1989 at NAS Moffett Field, California. Then went into the reserves and VP-90 at NAS Glenview, Illinois until the decomissioning in 1994. I am currently living in the Chicago area working as an engineer. I really miss flying in the P-3. Thanks to this site I've been able to get in contact with some of the old VP-47 dirtbags. Still looking for some. Weinbelly were are you? How bout wingnut or buff? Trying to do a dirtbag Reunion for spring 2002 in Tahoe. Contact me if you're interested..." [13JUN2001]


VAIL, AE1 Sharon Retired shacrafts@centurylink.net "...I served with VP-47, VP-31 and retired from VP-1 in 1995 as they were transferring to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 12AUG2012 | 05MAR2010]

VANDERVORT, YNC Elton L. Retired http://www.megalink.net/~yujack/sigh/iwo/vandervo.htm "...My early years started in Coos Bay, Oregon where I lived and went to school until I enlisted in the US Naval Reserve in September 1957. I attended regular reserve meetings from then while going to Marshfield Senior High School in Coos Bay; and until I went on active duty in December 1958. My first duty station was with FASRON-113 at NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. When I reported at my first station, I was not sure just what I would be doing since I had not attended any formal Navy Schools. I had some typing skills I learned while in High School, so I had two choices as they were put to me. One was to work in the "hot hangar"; the other to work in an "air conditioned" office. With these two options the choice was easy for me then. I decided that I should become a Yeoman. By the time I completed my first two-year tour I had been promoted to a YN3. I was looking forward to being released from the Navy but decided I would get out and spend three months "playing around" before returning back to active duty. The problem was I was not sure which branch of the service I was going to return to. After spending three months back home in Coos Bay I decided that I wanted to return to the Navy. I did this and had asked to be assigned to the Northwest area. I received orders to go to VP-47 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. Arrived NAS Whidbey Island, Washington in May of 1961. I got my orders to the NW area. However, the Navy had decided then I was needed to go to precom training at Bremerton. I reported to USS IWO JIMA (LPH-2) for pre commissioning August 10, 1961. My tour aboard the USS IWO JIMA lasted for one year and one day after she was commissioned. This was long enough for me to participate in the many underway sea trials and to accompany her to Hawaii and onto Johnston Island for the Nuclear Atmospheric Tests. I was assigned to X Division, and worked with some really neat YNC's and PNC's. Of particular was a YNC Lester Forsha who was also from Oregon. I had remained in contact with Les until his death a couple of years ago. I was transferred again from the IWO on August 27, 1962 to Flag Allowance, COMPHIBPAC Staff, at Coronado, California. Between IWO JIMA and COMPHIBPAC Staff I married my first wife Judith. I worked in COMPHIBPAC Staff Operations part of the time for Commander Nick Ford (who also served onboard the IWO). During my tour there I was promoted to YN2. I was called while at the office one day and told that I needed to go home because my first son, born premature was born on the landladys couch. My second son arrived full term and was born in Chula Vista Hospital. One of the yeoman who was assigned to work for the Chaplain was Mason Williams. He was a YN3, and many of you might know him now. He played a guitar; composed many songs, including "Classical Gas." He later performed on the Glen Campbell show, as well as others. Mason is also an Oregonian and lives east of Eugene. My tour lasted until 1 September 1965 at which time I was then transferred to Military Assistance and Advisory Group in Republic of China. I arrived MAAG China September 1965 at Kaohsiung, Taiwan. This was an accompanied tour and really interesting. I remember that upon our arrival there before the plane could land they had to chase the goats off the runway. This led to many more interesting experiences. My primary job there was to release classified material to the Taiwanese Navy to support the Navy ships that the US had given them. We made many trips up and down the island from Taipei to the southern tip of the island. A few of the side trips included visits to an orphanage in a remote area inaccessible by roads. This was an orphanage run by Philippine nuns. While there my third child or first daughter was born. My wife had to travel to Taipei a couple of weeks before her due date because there were no approved facilities in the Kaohsiung area. I enjoyed my tour there so much that I had extended it an additional six months. When it was time for transfer I had received orders to go aboard the USS PIVOT (MSO-463). I had volunteered to serve a tour in the Antarctic and the orders to go to the USS PIVOT were canceled. I was then transferred to Antarctic Development Squadron SIX (VX-6) in March 1968. I arrived NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island in April 1968 for duty and training for Antarctic Operations. Housing was expensive and not so available so I ended up purchasing a 10x54' mobile home. The squadron was expecting to deploy in October 1968 for the Antarctic so I decided I would volunteer to winter over and receive another set of orders so I could return my family back to Oregon. These orders were approved. Well I could not find a buyer for my mobile home so I had the Navy ship it back to Oregon. My wife and children returned to Oregon while I made my first deployment to the Antarctic. After arriving Antarctica I learned that the squadron was not going to have a winter over party that year. I was offered an opportunity to serve a tour in Christchurch, New Zealand which I did not hesitate at all to take. I contacted my wife and she said that she did not want to accompany me if the tour was anything like Taiwan. I assured her it wasn't. I returned back to Oregon to pick her and the children up so they could return with me to Christchurch. While in Christchurch I had my third son. The tour there was beautiful as I was actually able to find some "shirt tail" relatives that I had never met before. I was even able to find and restore a "right-hand drive" 1930 Model A Roadster. My boss in Christchurch also was restoring his Ford Model "A" so this made it really interesting. I was transferred in February 1972 from the Detachment VXE-6 to Navy Recruiting Sub-Station, Boise, Idaho. My tour at the Sub-Station Boise was that of a support function and while there I provided administrative support for recruiting activities. My boss, LCDR Millikin was a personal friend of one of the Apollo astronauts. As part of the recruiting activities he had made arrangements for Captain Eugene Cernan and Ron Evans to provide school tours in the Boise area. It was really exciting for me to have driven both astronauts through town with a police escort. When this tour was over in February 1976 I was transferred to the USS SAN JOSE (AFS-7). Prior to my transfer I was promoted to YNC. I had another son born prior to meeting the USS SAN JOSE in April 1976. She was on deployment overseas. I served onboard her on this deployment and made another prior to my retirement in January 1978..." [29JUN2003]

VARGO, AXCS Bob revargo@hotmail.com "...Some of the best times in my life !! Go Navy ! 1965-1986, VR-3 McGuire AFB, NJ. (1965-1966), two tours with VS-28 "Professionals" NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island (1966-1970), NAMTG AFTA instructor NAS Memphis, Tennessee (1970-1972), NAS Cubi Point, Philippines RADAR/ECM shop supervisor (1972-1975), COMPATWINGSPAC 1975-1977), NAMTRADET NAS Moffett Field, California (1977-1980), VP-47 (1980-1983), NAMTRADET (1984-1986), Retired 1986 What a Ride !!!..." [13MAR99]

VEGA, RM3 David J. bigdvegad@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1971 to 1974 at NAS Moffett Field, California. We were on deployment at the time the accident (SEE: In Memorial for VP-47 lost friends April 12, 1973) happened. I was at NAS Adak, Alaska when we got the word that RD5 had crashed with another aircraft. At first we were told that there were no survivors. I was happy to hear later that Bruce Mallibert had survived. I had the pleasure of knowing and flying with Bruce on several occasions during our deployments and when the squadron was home at NAS Moffett Field, California. I remember him as a good athelete because we played team basketball and flag football together. We lost part of our family that day on April 12, 1973. I will always remember that day and the crew that was lost..." [15APR2010]

VESEY, AMS1 Dave dv4740@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-40 (Fighting Marlins) NAS Moffett Field, California (started my P-3 career) from 1988 to 1991, VP-31 (Black Lightning) NAS Moffett Field, California from 1991-1993, VP-47 (Golden Swordsmen) NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from 1993 to 1998, NRL NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1998 to 2001 and VP-5 (Mad Foxes) NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 2001 to 2004. Now fixin to go to shore duty with VP-30 (Pros Nest) NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Trust me I've done both East and West VP and the West is the BEST!..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 05AUG2004 | 23APR99]

VIGIL, Roy "Taco Bender" rangervigil@hotmail.com "...I'm looking for Shipmates from VP-47 from 1974-1977. I worked on the fightline..." [26APR2000]


WADDELL, Rick BritchesWaddell@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 rrom February 1961 through December 9, 1963. I would like to contact any and all who served with me during this time. I started up making up sacks, dusting your lockers, swabbing the deck, cleaning the head, and washing the showers. Got'cha up in the morning for breakfast. Later on got the pickers their parts and wound up counting you as you came to chow. Boy it was fun! Let me hear from you..." [13DEC2000]

WADE, AMS3(AW) Joe wwade41076@aol.com "...I served in VP-50 from 1990-decom and VP-47 until 93. I currrently work at the White House. Leave me a message and I will get back to you. I got out 4/96 but Michele (still my wife & HM2) is still in..." [07JUL2000]

WEAVER, Bill "Will" wllmwvr@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-47 (1984-1987) flying with Crew-8 and Crew-10, VP-31 (1987-1989) and VP-91 (1989-1995)..." [E-Mail Updated 13FEB2002 | E-Mail Updated 19SEP2000 | E-Mail Updated 13DEC98 | 05APR98]

WEAVER, Robert E. "Charley" mn4bob@bwbs.hawthorne.nv.us "...I reported to duty with VP-47 out of "A" school as an ATSAN, at NAS Alameda, California in June 1960. VP-47 moved to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington that fall. I reenlisted under the STAR program made AT2 and went to ATI "B" school at NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee in April 1962. I then reported to VW-1 at NAS Agana in the spring of 1963. I reported for shore duty with VP-31 at NAS North Island, San Diego, California as an ATN2, where I worked in AMD Shop C as a OJT instuctor and quality control inspector. I finished my enlistment in January 1967. Would like to hear from some of my old Shipmates..." [03APR2000]

WEINBERG, Rick weinbergr1@earthlink.net "...I was an inflight ordnanceman with VP-47 from 1986-1990 and at NRL at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1990-1994. I already found a few long lost crewmates. Anybody who remembers serving with me, I would love to hear from you. The "dirtbags" of VP-47 were the best aircrewman to ever operate the P-3. I miss flying with them, and am looking foward to hearing from them..." [25DEC2002]

WELCH, Norm norm-ruth@mediaone.net "...VP-47 was my first sea duty 1957 - 1960 two trips to the land of the rising sun. Had a ball when 360 to one was the going rate. What ever happened to E. L. Williams? Easy livings I retired in 75 at NATC Jacksonville, Florida..." [28DEC2001]

WELLER, CDR Wayne L. Retired wlweller@verizon.net "...I served with VP-31 in 1961, VP-9 NAS Alameda, California (Julie/MAD/ECM/SNIFFER) flying (P2V-7s) from 1962 to 1963, VP-31 (Staff) from 1963 to 1965, VP-31 Det Alpha (P3As) at NAS Moffett Field from 1965 to 1968, VP-47 as a F/E flying P-3A/Bs, NAS Point Mugu, California, NAM, VP-19 (Material Officer and MMCO) from 1972 to 1974, VP-46 from 1977 to 1980, COMLATWINGPAC from 1980 to 1983, VP-31 (MMCO and MO) from 1983 to 1988, COMPATWINGSPAC as the Wing Maintenance Officer from 1988 until I retired in the fall of 1990. I would like to take this opportunity to say "Hello" to all my former Shipmates. It was a great thirty-five years..." [E-Mail Updated 04SEP2009 | 11OCT97]

Memorial Picture "...WELLS, CAPTAIN Gary A...My darling husband, CAPTAIN Gary A. Wells, lost his valiant fight with lung cancer on July 10th, 2006. He served with VP-4, VP-9, VP-47 and retired in 1987...Janet W. Wells heidelberggirl@msn.com..." [BIO Updated 25JUL2006 | 24JUL2006]

WENZ, Charles cwwenz@maysvilleky.net "...I attended A School in NAS Memphis, Tennessee (1958), VP-47 (1958 to 1960) making the deployment to NAS Iwakuni, Japan and VA-126 NAS Miramar, California (1960 to 1961). I left the Navy returned home to Kentucky. I have attended three Reunions San Diego, California 2003 - Las Vegas, Nevada 2005 and Reno, Nevada 2008..." [27DEC2008]

WESTON, Larry H. LHWeston@aol.com "...Hello Men and Women of the VP-Navy, those who I have shared with and those that I will, and shall have served with in the future. I began my VP Navy career with VP-17, White Lightnings at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii in 1977 to 1980. I later served a tour with VP-31, Black Lightning, RAG at NAS Moffett Field, California, 1980 to 1984. From 1984 to 1987 I was with VP-19, Big Red! Beginning in 1987 to 1990, I did a tour with NADEP NAS Alameda, California, formerly NARF Alameda. I later did a tour with VP-48 from 1990 to 1991. VP-48 decommissioned and I transferred to VP-47 from 1991 to 1992. The decommissionings really caused a heartbreak for me. So I retired in 1992. I really wished that I had stayed in. I really miss the moonlit glare off the ocean on dark clear nights. If ever given the opportunity again to join the VP-Navy on Active Duty, the CNO would have to personally and physically kick me out. He can't send his friends. I enjoyed and loved all my tours in the VP-Navy. Each tour was unique and none better that the other. Don't believe me? Then just ask anyone who had served with me..." [20AUG98]

WEISSE, AEC(AW) Christopher Retired aedude_1@yahoo.com "...I joined VP-47 AE Shop in November of 1984 and made deployments to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NSF Diego Garcia. In 1987 I did a tour in VP-31 as a FRAMP instructor > until Nov 1989. I transfer to VP-48 AE Shop and did a deployment to NAS Cubi Point, Philippines the squadron was decommissioned in 1991. From there I went to VP-40 AE Shop and did deployments to NAS Misawa, Japan and NAS Adak, Alaska. In 1993 I transfer to VQ-3 Det Travis. I came back to the VP community in 1996 and joined VP-9 AE Shop & Maintenance Control I did deployments to NSF Diego Garcia (twice) and NAS Misawa, Japan. In 2000 I transfer to FASOTRAGRU DET HI where I plan on retiring in NOV 2003..." [02NOV2001]

WHATLEY, CWO3 Ron Retired linronwhat@thegateway.net or rwhatley@scci-ad.com "...I served with VP-23 from 9/63 - 01/67 (YN3) and then returned in early 68 after AX 'A' school. I transferred to VP-21 in Oct 68 when they decided to decommission VP-23, which of course never happened. I transferred to FAETUPAC, NAS Moffett Field, California in Jul 69 and spent the rest of my career there in VP-47, CPW-10 and VP-40, with the exception of a tour at PACFAST in Pearl Harbor, HI. I retired out of VP-40 01/85..." [E-Mail Updated 30NOV2000 | 08JUN99]

WHELAN, Thomas sgtwhelan@comcast.net "...I served with VP-47 (1971-1974). I am currently with the Carlisle, Ma. Police Department. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 06JUL2017 | 03JAN2002]

WHITE, John c/o His Son John White, Jr Roguesgt@icomnet.com "...Looking for anyone who my have been with VP-47 from 1951 to 1953 and may have known my father John White. He was a AM3 and flew as tail gunner on BA2. His twin brother Lonnie also flew with VP-47 during the same time on BA9 I believe. Would like to share any information and pictures of aircraft and crews if anyone out there has any they would like to share..." [26JUN2000]

UPDATE "...Frank Breitenstein Fvbreit@msn.com has been in contact with Mr. White and has provided aircraft photo's, etc...." [11AUG2000]

WIECKING, Ken wiecking@oceanic.com "...Served in VP-47 (P5M Seaplanes) 1956-60 and in VP-24 (Neptunes-P-2V-7) 1965-67...Forgot to add in my first note to you that since retiring I have followed my Navy Subspecialty of communications off and on and am now a Project Manager for telecomms projects with Time Warner Tele Comms Inc in our Hawaii subsidiary called Oceanic Communications. Have traveled the career road through Systems Analysis (another Navy Sub spec I picked up); Engineer for MITRE Corp; Realtor, real estate appraiser and devotee of this great though expensive life in paradise (also called tax hell). "Navy prepares us for almost anything" seems like a worthy tribute to our great Navy. VP-47 and VP-24 jobs set the stage for a great future in or out of the Navy..." [Updated 26MAY98]

WILCOX, ADC GEORGE L. Retired GLWJR@WEBTV.NET "...I SERVED IN VP-46 FROM 1961 TO 1967 F/E CREW 4. VP-47 FROM 1967 TO 1973 QA FLT ENG, LATER POWER PLANTS CPO. I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY OLD Shipmates..." [19FEB99]

Shipmate Requested Name Removal  [Shipmate Removed 11JUL2002 | 04DEC2001]

WILLIAMS, Vinny funandfit45@yahoo.com "...I served with CPW-2 (1984-1988), VP-17 (1988-1993), Fleet Aviation Specialized Operational Training (FASO) (1993-1996), VP-47 (1996-2000), VP-30 (2000-2004) and Mobile Operations Control Center (2004-2006)..." [20JUL2013]

WILMERS, PR2 Stephen swilmers@hotmail.com "...I was in VP-47 from 93'-97'. If anyone I know is out there drop me a line..." [BIO Updated 11AUG2000 | 04MAY99]

WILSON, Jeff bigdogg_9@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-48 from March 1987 to March 1991, FASO Detachment NAS Moffett Field, California from March 1991 to October 1993, VP-47 NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from October 1993 to June 1995, split tour and went to VP-1 NAS Whidbey Island, Washington from June 1995 to November 1997, AW "A" School NAS Pensacola, Florida from November 1997 to May 2001 as an Instructor and then back to VP-47 MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii where I will retire in January 2005. I've meet a lot of people in my 20 years whom I still consider friends and would love to hear from you to re-hash old memories..." [12NOV2003]

WILSON, LT Jim jwilson@walco.gccoxmail.com "...Currently with Navy Reserve Commander Naval Central Command Operations Support Detachment in Tampa. I served with VP-47 from July 1970 to May 1974. We were the first west coast squadron to receive the P-3C. It was really great to find this site. The men who served with Bruce Malibert were all friends of mine and I appreciated seeing the tributes. I served 4 more years as a YN1 and Admin Supervisor for Commander Training Air Wing Five near Pensacola. Got out in 1978, got my degree, worked in business, missed the Navy and joined the Reserves in 1989 - 3 years too old to go direct commission! It took 7 years and 4 boards to become a Mustang. I was thrilled however to pick up Chief the year before I got commissioned. Until recently, I was under the impression that I was the oldest Ensign ever commissioned. Hopefully, I'll make 0-4 before they force me out for being too old. It's great to see a lot of familiar names on these pages...." [20AUG2006]

WITT, Edward J. Jr. wittejbj@whidbey.net "...Served with VP-47 NAS Moffett Field, California; and VO-67 onto VQ-1. Also flew stripped out P2V's out of NAS Adak, Alaska for search and rescue..." [06JAN99]

WOLD PJWOLD@AOL.COM "...WENT TO FRAMP AND NAMTRADET AT VP-31 FROM MAY 92-JAN 93, THEN TO AIRCREW SCHOOL. I WAS IN VP-30 AS A MAINTAINER (AT-TYPE) FOR A VERY SHORT STINT FROM MAY 93-MAY 93, THEN WENT TO FLIGHT PHASE. WENT TO VP-49 FROM JULY 93-DECOM AS AN IFT. ONTO VP-47 FROM MAR 94-FEB 97. NOW WORKING AS A SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR AT TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER, HAWAII. WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM FOLKS FROM THE PAST! HOPE TO SEE YOU AT A SOCIAL OCCASION, AND NOT AS ONE OF MY PATIENTS!..." [E-Mail Updated 17JAN2001 | 13NOV97]

WOOD, LCPO Ron w4woody@comcast.net "...Curently at BUPERS. Looking for Shipmates and FEs who served with VP-1 from 1982 to 1985, VP-6 from 1989 to 1992, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii ETD from 1992 to 1996, VX-1 from 1996 to 1999, AIMD NSF Diego Garcia from 1999 to 2000, and VP-47 from 2000 to 2003. Lets hook up just to tell some old sea stories. Later Folks!..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 01JUL2004 | BIO Updated 21APR2000 | 30DEC97]

WOMACK, AECS(AW) Lloyd Retired lloyddw@charter.net "...I was active duty from 1971-1996 and served with VP-47 from 1993-1996. Just wanted to say hey to all the real Shipmates out there. I'm still alive and kicking. Drop me a line or two..." [E-Mail Updated 17AUG2003 | 18JUL99]

WORDEN, AEM3 Eugene "Wray" wary1@att.net "...An AEM3 on active duty from 1957 to 1959 assigned to VP-47 at NAS Alameda, California and TAD to NAS Iwakuni, Japan. So Sorry I didn't find out about the Reunion a couple of years ago. Would like very much to find AEM2 (at that time) James M. Campbell, also of VP-47 those dates and later assigned somewhere around Jacksonville, Florida (after shipping for 6). I was flight crew electrician and ECM operator in the EXEC's crew. Loved every minute of flight time. Later, until mid '61 assigned to VP-881 out of NAS Olathe, Kansas..." [09OCT2001]

WRITE, AE2 Ronald ronroserandy@aol.com "...I served with VP-47 from 1987 to 1992 enjoyed the friendship and the great training I received from all..." [12FEB2004]


YESBERG, Bill abscompany@direcway.com "...I served VP-47 NAS Alameda, California from 1959-1960. We Made one deployment to WESTPAC (NAS Iwakuni, Japan) during my tour of duty. I worked in the Administrative office and would be very interested in hearing from anyone that served with VP-47 during that time..." [06AUG2003]

YOUDAL, ATC Richard A. Retired richard.youdal.ctr@navy.mil "...I served with VP-22 (12/1970-05/1977 and 12/1981-12/1983), VP-17 (11/1983-01/1986), VP-47 (09/1986-05/1988),USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) (05/1988-05/1990). Naval Air Systems Command, Washington D.C. (05/1990-03/1994) and retired (03/1994). I am currently working for Naval Air Systems Command PMA-207 (C-130's) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 07MAY2013 | 10NOV99]

YOUNG, Ed bpd180@gmail.com "...I served with VP-47 (FE) from 1990 to 1992..." [09AUG2010]

YOUNG, Thomas C. Scotswhae@webtv.net "...Served two tours with VP-47. Picked up the squadron at Oak Harbor. We deployed to NS Sangley Point, Philippines. I flew with Crew 9 enjoyed it. Went home early for Flt. Eng. training and left the squadron in 1967. Second tour was 1972 until 1976. Went to VP-31 and retired in 1977...I served with VP-40 from 1958 through 1962. Great tour of duty. Had some duty with shore patrol then reported to electric shop served with some great guys L.A.Griener, Ron Sadler, and Farmer. Would like to hear from old Shipmates if still kicking" [BIO Updated 06FEB2000 | 21JUL99]


ZEISEL, CAPTAIN Dick Retired eldoz@msn.com "...I served (in chronological order) in the following squadrons: VP-47 (1951-53); VP-8 (1961-64); VP-30 (1964-67); VP-49 (XO/CO 1967-68); VP-31 (CO 1970-71)...Having been involved in the very first P3V-1 (P-3A) introduction in 1962 and still involved with the P-3 in 1970-71 (first west coast P-3C)..." [E-Mail Updated 05FEB99]

ZIRZOW, CDR William A. http://www.navy.mil/homepages/vp-45/home/pages/xobio.htm "...Commander William A. Zirzow hails from Saratoga, California. He graduated from San Jose State University in May 1984 with a B.A. in Economics. He received his commission through the Aviation Officer Candidate Program in August 1986 and was designated a Naval Aviator in August 1987. In March 1988, he reported to the "Golden Swordsmen" of VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California. During this tour he earned qualifications as a Patrol Plane Commander, Instructor Pilot and Mission Commander in the P-3C aircraft and completed deployments to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NAS Adak, Alaska. He completed this tour as the squadron's Pilot Training Officer and Assistant Training Officer. Commander Zirzow then reported to the P-3 Fleet Replacement Squadron, VP-31, for instructor duty in June 1991, where he was assigned as the squadron's Pilot Training Officer and Pilot Standardization/Evaluation Officer. Upon decommissioning of VP-31, he reported to the staff of Commander Patrol Wings, U.S. Pacific Fleet, at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, as the Fleet P-3 Standardization/Evaluation Officer. The USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) was his next assignment, where he served as the Assistant Navigator. He qualified as Officer of the Deck and Command Duty Officer Underway, the first junior officer to receive this dual qualification. He completed a Persian Gulf deployment in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. In 1996 he was awarded the Pacific Fleet's "Shiphandler of the Year" award. In September 1997, Commander Zirzow reported to the "Golden Swordsmen" of VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. He served as the Maintenance Department Head and Assistant Operations Officer. During this tour, he completed a Persian Gulf deployment in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH and served as the P-3 Liaison Officer onboard USS Independence (CV-62). Commander Zirzow reported to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Command, Control, Communications and Computer (C4) Systems Directorate (J-6) in June of 1999. He served as an Action Officer for the Global Command and Control Division. In December 2001, Commander Zirzow was selected as a Navy Legislative Fellow. After completion of the Georgetown School of Governmental Affairs, he reported to the office of Senator Susan Collins of Maine where he was part of the Department of Defense Legislative Fellows Program. In February 2002, he was temporarily assigned to Commander Fifth Fleet, Al Udeid, Qatar in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom during combat operations. In April 2004, he reported to VP-45 as the Executive Officer. Commander Zirzow's personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Navy-Marine Corps Commendation medals, two Navy Achievement medals and various campaign and unit awards..." [17APR2004]

ZORBACH, Greg zorbach@sbcglobal.net "...I spent half my 24-year career at NAS Moffett Field, California (still play golf there with the GC Men's Club): VP-47 (71-73), VP-31 (79-82), VP-46 DH (82-85), VP-9 XO (85), CPWP (my medical penalty box phase) (85), VP-50 XO/CO (85-86). Retired in 93. Now flying with Southwest Airlines. Love to hear from former Shipmates, especially Blue Dragons..." [E-Mail Updated 17APR2005 | 25SEP99]

ZWAN, Gary R. 110532.1176@compuserve.com "...I served with VP-47 at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1975-1979. I was an AT-1 in the Maintenance/QA Shop..." [11MAR99]


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