BABINS, SCPO Stuart A. Retired stu3558@gmail.com "...I served with VP-45 (1959-1961), VP-56 (1961-1963), VP-10 (1965-1968), VP-26 (1968-1970), VX-1 (1970-1973), VP-45 (1975-1978), VX-1 (1978-1982), FAW-1 Detachment NSF Diego Garcia (1982-1983) ASMOD and ASWOC..." [E-Mail Updated 01JAN2017 | E-Mail Updated 12AUG2011 | E-Mail Updated 04MAY2006 | E-Mail Updated 23DEC2004 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 19MAY2004 | BIO Updated 28JAN2002 | E-Mail Updated 21OCT2001 | E-Mail Updated 25MAY2000 | Updated 15FEB98]

BAGGETT, David dbagget@msn.com "...Left VP-56 from NAS Sigonella, Sicily Sept.1966.Anyone still around that remembers MAMA SUZIES..." [03OCT98]

BAKER, David J. itgbaker@erols.com "...VP NFO. VP-56, 1964-1966. VP-8, 1974-1977. Retired 1983..." [25AUG2000]

BAKER, AW2(AC) Ronald thebakers400@earthlink.net "...I was an AW2 (AC) with VP-56 from 1968 to 1971 as a Jez operator with Crew 8. Fred McAfee, Red Laverne and I worked together. I left the Navy in 1971, went back to college to become a teacher and just retired from teaching this year. I hope all is well with those who were in the squadron at that time, and that maybe you will remember me since it has been so long. Bud Strine, Bill Wyatt and I were good friends then, but I have not seen them since I left..." [23JUL2004]

BARGER, AD1 Barry Retired barry.e.barger@rolls-royce.com "...I'm very pleased to find a site where a close community can share stories that no one would understand if they hadn't been there. I was a ground pounder with VP-50 from 1978 to 1981, based in NAS Moffett Field, California. Like everyone else, went through VP-31 FRAMP, deployed to NAS Misawa, Japan; NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan; NAS Adak, Alaska. Went on all the dets I could, to the PI, NSF Diego Garcia (Dodge City), all the inflight stops of Osan, Yakota, Singapore, Bangkok, etc. I then transfered to NRL-FSD and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. In 1981 met my wife and had a boy that has a Navy birth certificate. In 1983 transfered to NAS Jacksonville, Florida to pursue a career as a P-3 Flight Engineer. Made it through VP-30 and arrived at VP-56, also at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, where I immediately was deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I succeeded in getting the quals by the time we returned home. In 1985 I was retired, but it hasn't held me back. I still work with T56 series engines at the OEM. It's been great to talk to guys I haven't heard from in such long time. Good health to all the VP'ers out there!..." [03OCT2003]

BARNES, AMS2 Jeff pennsyk4s@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1970 to 1973, AMD NAS Keflavik, Iceland from 1973 to 1975 and AMD NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1975 to 1978..." [E-Mail Updated 19MAY2006 | E-Mail Updated 17FEB2002 | E-Mail Updated 04JAN20001 | 19JUN99]

BARNHARDT, AE Preston E. "Barney" prestonbarnhardt@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1965-1969) as a Crew-4 Aviation Electrican. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 20JUN2015 | 17JUL2001]

BARRETT, Joel W. cnebody@mindspring.com"...Served from 1982 through 1984. I was an AW and worked at Sensor Station 3 (radar, electronic warfare, infrared, MAD, etc) onboard the P3-C Orion. During my enlistment I was deployed to Rota, Spain, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, and Iceland..."

BARRIS, AWCS(AW) Bill wbarris@juno.com "...I served in HSL-36 from 1976-1979, FASOTRAGRULANT Det Jax from 1979-1982 VP-16 from 1982-1986, CPW-11 from 1986-1989, VP-56 from 1989-Disestablishment, VP-5 from 1991-1993, TSC NS Rota, Spain from 1993-1996, VP-30 1996-present...brings back lots of memories both good and bad. Mostly good..." [01NOV2001 | 07JUN98]

BARTON, PH Eric P. luravilleswamp@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1977-1980) as a Photographers Mate (ya back when they still had cameras on the aircraft). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [16SEP2011]

BATTAGLIA, Richard ACT600@AOL.COM "...I served with VP-9 1959 to 1961 and VP-56 1963 to 1967 some of the best of times..." [30OCT98]

"...BAXLEY, CMC Frank ...Frank Baxley, 64, died Feb. 12th, 2006 at his home in Lexington Park, Md. Frank is the son of the late John Lester Baxley Sr and Marguerite Brown Baxley of Marion Sc. Frank has worked for the government since 1961 - first as active duty Navy, and then as a civil servant at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. He joined Navy in 1961 and went through boot camp in San Diego. He attended Anti-Submarine Warfare electronics technician, advanced electronics training in NAS Millington, Tennessee. Followed with flight crew operator training in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and P2V specific training in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Frank's I first duty station as an operator was with VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Deployments included NS Rota, Spain, NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and detachments in NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, Crete, Greece, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, and NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. While assigned to VP-56 Frank logged 5000 flight hours in 5 years. I After his arduous duty with VP-56 during the Cuban missile crisis, Frank transferred to VP-30 to attend 16 weeks of factory training for computer and data processing systems. After returning to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland he attended In-Flight Technician (IFT) training at NAMTRADET, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. As an IFT with VP-24 he made four deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. He was then assigned to NAMTRADET NAS Jacksonville, Florida as P-3C IFT and Weapon Systems Technician instructor. He also taught community college electronics theory and all related math necessary to get a First Class Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license. He then transferred to NAS Moffett Field, California VP-48 serving as the Maintenance/Material Control Senior Chief and Command Senior Chief when he retired from the NAVY. After retiring in 1982 from the NAVY he continued supporting the Maritime Surveillance Aircraft RM&S department for Naval Air Systems Command. In 1985 he then accepted his first Government Service position as Engineering Technician, Antisubmarine AlC Test Directorate for NATC serving as manager of the airborne advanced signal processor being developed for incorporation into the P-3 Update IV aircraft. With the initiation of the P-7A development in 1989, his duties expanded to include the oversight of concurrent integration of the Update IV avionics suite into the P-7A airframe design. 1993 he was promoted as an Engineering Technician, Force Warfare Aircraft Directorate, NAWCAD as the Technical Lead for the P-3C Anti-surface Warfare Improvement Program (AlP). He developed the groundbreaking acquisition strategy based on the extensive use of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf/Non-Development Items. He led the technical integrated program team through program concept definition, requirements and location to a successful ACAT II P-3C Update IV mission avionics upgrade program. I 1996 assisted the P-3 PMA office coordinating staffing of issues with Program Executive Offices and Financial Management offices. 1997 until his Government service retirement, September 2005 he managed the P-3 AlP, BMUP, FMS, and P-8A MMA , Mission System logistics. Frank was an active member of the Lion's Club of Lexingiton Park and enjoyed volunteering his time at historic St. Mary's City. Frank and his family call St Mary's County home since his retirement from the Navy in 1982...St. Mary's Today Sunday, February 19, 2006..." WebSite: St. Mary's Today http://www.stmarystoday.com/ [19FEB2006]

BEARL, Les lessb@aol.com "...I was in VP-56 from 1967-1969. Started as an AA out of AE school and left in 69 as AE2. Switched from P2V's to P-3's. Worked mostly second shift maintenance. The chief didn't like me. Would like to hear from some other AE's. Guppy (Gupton), Stickland, Willbanks etc. I had a great time in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [01AUG2000]

BECKER, Lou "Luiji" luiji@infinet.com "...I served nearly 6 years in VP-56, arriving in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland just after transition to "Charlies" and leaving in 1975 from NAS Jacksonville, Florida after my enlistment was up. My job was aircrew as an acoustic sensor operator, first on Crew 7, SS2, then later on Crew 2, SS1. Also, became NATOPS PO for AW's. I think that PPC on Crew 2 was LCDR J. J. Calandy (not sure of spelling). I sure have lots of fond memories - 3 deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, 1 to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, mini-det to Crete, etc. To all those that I served with, I say, "Hey!" I wouldn't go back but I wouldn't trade the experience for anything, either..." [30JUL99]

"...BECKFORD, AEC(AW) Dayne...Memorial Funeral Mass for Dayne C.M. Beckford, 45, who died Sun., Nov. 26, 2006, at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach, will be 1 p.m. Sat., Dec. 2, in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, with the Rev. Mark Waters as celebrant. Military honors will follow outside the church. Family will receive friends from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday in the church Memorial Room. Dayne was born March 26, 1961, in Kingston, Jamaica, to the late Hayden Thompson and the late Cynthia Beckford. Dayne served his country in the U.S. Navy for 21 years, receiving many decorations and commendations, and attaining the rank of chief. A resident of Palm Coast for six years, Dayne worked as a professor at Daytona Beach Community College and for the Flagler County Adult Education program. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, V.F.W. Post 8696, U.S. Navy Fleet Reserve, the Caribbean Club, the Flagler County Technical Council, and various motorcycle groups, hunting clubs, and many other organizations. Dayne was very active in his community, donating his time to many causes. He was also an avid outdoorsman and sportsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, sailing, riding his motorcycle and flying. Dayne's greatest joys, though, came from spending time with his family. Dayne served with VP-56, VQ-2 and Catbird..." WebSite: CenterSeat (CENTERSEAT FORUM - Main Category - IN MEMORY) http://www.centerseat.net/ [08AUG2008]

BECKFORD, AEC(AW/NAC) Dayne C. M. daynec@hotmail.com "...Flight Engineer...VP-56 CAC 10 & CAC 8, 86-89, VQ-2 I was a "Q-Dog" and a member of the first Aries II crew., 89-93, CINCUSNAVEUR VP-3 DET living Belpasso on Sunny NAS Sigonella, Sicily, 93-96, NAMO/NAVAIRSYSCOM NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 96 to present. I wouldn't mind hearing from old Shipmates..." [30APR98][ICQ# 3671792]

BLANKENSHIP, AT1 Carl carlblankenship13@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1977-1980) at NAS Cubi Point, Philippines (1980-1983), VP-9 (1984-1987) and VP-31 (1987-1990). Started out as an AX then switched to AT and got out as AT1 in 1990. Love to hear from any former Shipmates..." [E-MAIL/BIO Updated 29SEP2021 | 16JUL2010]

BLANKLEY, AWCS (AW/NAC) Bob Retired starchief13@yahoo.com "...I went to school in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (VP-30) in 1973, served in VP-56 (1973-1977), VP-6 (1982-1984), COMFAIRKEF (1989-1992). I was in Helo's the rest of the time..." [13MAY2001]

BLAYLOCK, Ron ron.b@cheerful.com "...I served in VP-18, VP-56, VP-46, and VP-40 from 1968 to 1980. Was at NAMTRADET NAS Moffett Field, California from 1980 to 1984 as a flight engineer ground school instructor..." [E-Mail Updated 07JUN99]

BLISS, Ray TFBNCC@AOL.COM "...I served in VP-56 75 thru 79, VP-30 80 & 81, VX-1 85 thru 90. If any old acquaintences are out there drop me an E-mail..." [18JAN98]

BOLDEN, CMC Circa 2005 http://reserves.navy.mil/ "...Enlisted in the United States Navy 31 May 1979 and completed Recruit Training Command at Great Lakes, IL. Upon completion of Recruit Training he reported to Meridian, MS for YN "A" school. Master Chief Bolden active duty assignments include: Fighter Squadron ONE SIX ONE aboard the USS MIDWAY (CV-41) at Yokosuka, Japan, where he was assigned as the Administrative and Operations Yeoman completing three Indian Ocean deployments. His next assignment was VP-56 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida, assigned as the Communications and Operations Yeoman. His final active duty assignment was Aviation Officer Candidate School (AOCS) Command in Pensacola, Florida, where he was assigned to the Administrative Office. While assigned in NAS Pensacola, Florida, he applied for and was approved conversion to the Training and Administration of the Reserves (TAR) Program. Reserve Force assignments include: Commander, Naval Reserve Construction Force at Greensboro, North Carolina, where he worked as AT/ADT/IDTT Coordinator for the Southeast Region. His next Reserve assignment was Readiness Command NINE at NAS Millington, Tennessee, assigned to the Manpower and later to the Administrative Department, serving as Leading Petty Officer. Other Reserve assignments include: Helicopter Combat Support Squadron FIVE at Naval Air Weapons Station Point Mugu, California, where he served as the Administrative Office Leading Chief Petty Officer. He next transfered to NAval Reserve Columbia, South Carolina, following that assignment VP-65 at Naval Air Weapons Station Point Mugu, California. He next reported to Commander, Naval Reserve Readiness Command Southeast, NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Then he promoted to Master Chief Petty Officer and earned a Bachelor Degree in Business from Columbia College of Missouri. In December 2001, he reported as Command Master Chief of Helicopter Combat Support Special Squadron FIVE, where he deployed to Iraq in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. In June 2004, he reported to VP-62 to assume the duties as Command Master Chief..." [16JUN2005]

BOOKHAMMER, AW2 Bernie bbookhammerjr@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (early 1970-07/1970) and flew with CAC-9 and TAC-9...." [E-Mail Updated 21SEP2017 | E-Mail Updated 29MAR2006 | BIO Updated 18SEP2003]

BOYINGTON, REAR ADMIRAL John E. Jr. https://www.cnatra.navy.mil/00.htm "...Commander, Navy Region South - A native of Pensacola, Fla, Rear Admiral John E. Boyington, Jr. began his military career as an Army warrant officer flying helicopter gunships during the Vietnam Conflict. He was commissioned via the Navy's Aviation Officer Candidate School in January 1973 and received his "Wings of Gold" in December 1973. In October 2000, he assumed command as Chief of Naval Air Training and Commander, Navy Region South. His operational tours: First tour in VP-56 deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Keflavik, Iceland; Department Head tour with VP-4 in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, serving as Safety, Maintenance and Operations Officer deploying to NSF Diego Garcia and NAS Adak, Alaska; Executive Officer of VP-31. His command tours: Commanding Officer VP-50, CPW-1, Japan, Commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Force, SEVENTH Fleet (CTF 72) , Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Force FIFTH Fleet (CTF 57), Commander, Iceland Defense Force (Joint Subunified Command) and Island Commander Iceland (NATO), Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Force Atlantic, and Commander, Mine Warfare Command. Shore and staff tours: P-3 flight instructor in VP-30, fixed and rotary wing test pilot and project officer for the E-2, S-3, P-3, UH-1 and C-12 aircraft, as well as NASA's QSRA and Tilt Rotor aircraft flight-test programs. His Washington, DC tours include, Chief Engineer for Maritime Patrol Aircraft Naval Air Systems Command and Maritime Patrol Requirements Officer staff of the Chief of Naval Operations (N88). Formal education: Bachelor's degree, University of West Florida, Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Naval Post Graduate School, and a Master of Science degree in National Resource Management Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He is a graduate of the Defense Systems Management College, Naval Test Pilot School, member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots and a designated Acquisition Professional. Rear Admiral Boyington has flown more than 600 armed combat missions in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Bosnia, and Kosovo. He is rated as a Navy Jet, Helicopter, and Prop Aviator and has 8,000 flight hours in more than 80 types of aircraft. His decorations include: the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Gold Star, Bronze Star (combat "V"), Meritorious Service Medal (two gold stars), Air Medal (25 strike devices), Navy Commendation Medal (two gold stars), numerous service ribbons and the Commander's Cross with Star of the Icelandic Order of the Falcon presented by the President of Iceland..." [18JUN2003]

BRANDENBURG, AW1 Phil Retired pbrandy@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1980-1985, NAS Memphis, Tennessee from 1985-1989, ASMOD USS Eisenhower from 1989-1991, VP-16 from 1991-1996, and CPW-11 NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1996-1999. I would like to hear from some old squadron mates..." [16FEB2002]

BRANT, AW2 Mark mbrant@siu.edu "...Hey P-3 Bubbas. I've lost track of alot of you guys but still think of the good times in the "old navy." I'm at S. Il. University learning to sit in the front seat. (I had it so easy in the back!) I was in VP-56 and VP-8 while on active duty. I am now in VP-94 as a weekend warrior. Keep in touch!..." [25MAR98]

BREEDLOVE, AEC Robert Retired dbobdi@bellsouth.net "...My first tour of duty was with VP-16 from 1970-1973 as an AEAN with deployments to NAS Bermuda, NS Rota, Spain, and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. I also had a tour fo duty with VP-56 from 1983-1986 as an AE1. I now am a retired AEC. Please contact me for Reunions, etc...." [04OCT2002]

BRENNEMAN, ABH3 Bob "Bobbie" bbrenneman@mtctrains.com "...I was attached to VP-56 from 1971-1973. I would like to hear from anyone during that period. I have lost touch with everyone. If any one can help me located David Paul Forcier, origannally from Winchendon,MA it would be greatly appreciated. I owe him my life, and would like the opportunity to tell him. Feel free to respond if you sevrved during this period..." [23JAN2001]

BREWBAKER, PN3 Jon rs381@verizon.net "...I served with VP-56 (06/1960-06/1961)..." [29MAY2012]

BRIGGS, AT3 David A. ltdabe@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 out of NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1971 to 1972. I participated in deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. I worked in the AMD Divsion as an AT-3. I worked on communications Radios for the P-3C's. I also had the opportunity to see Amsterdam, Holland and Stravanger, Norway. I haven't seen anyone from the time of my tour. I would like to hear from some former Shipmates..." [13JAN2007]

"...BRINDISI, Gregory E. Circa 1956...I have many photos to share for interested parties taken by my father Gregory E. Brindisi during his service with VP-56 out of NAS Norfolk, Virginia. He participated in the August to December 1956 tour of the Mediterranean. I am also interested in exchanging digital scans with anyone who has some photos from 1954 to 1958 of VP-56 and it's aircraft. As a Canadian I am thankful of and the US Navy's efforts in the preservation of peace and freedom for North America, and the world as well. I'm glad my dad played a small part in this job while he was in the US Navy...Nick Brindisi nickbrindisi@planetdesignwerk.com..." WebSite: VP-56 Guardians of Freedom http://www.vp56.org/ [WebSite Added 26JAN2008 | PIX Added 04JAN2005 | 03JAN2005]

BROWN, Richard vanman155@yahoo.com "...I flew on LQ-4 (crew-4) with Barney, Tom, Mack, chief Jake, lt Bondi, CDR Stetz, LT Snick, Chief Coonrod, and others in VP-56 from 1967 to 1968. Paul Crockett was my AO shop chief. It was so nice to see some of their comments and know that they are still around. In 1968 I cross-decked to VP-49 and saw duty at NS Sangley Point, Philippines and Utapao, Thai. In 1972 I rejoined the Navy and saw duty with the Mighty "O" Oriskany of the coast of Vietnam. Would like to attend a Reunion with VP-56 next year..." [E-Mail Updated 14SEp2003 | 30OCT2002]

BROWN, AOC Richard E. Retired RBP3ORION@aol.com "...Served in VP-30 '63 to '65, VP-56 in '53 to '56, and VP-8 in '58-'63. Would like to hear from anyone in these squadrons who remembers me at that time. Best wishes Shipmates..." [27FEB2000]

BROWN, LT(jg) Ron joelbrown78@att.com "...I served with VP-56 (1967-1969) as AIO. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 19FEB2012 | 21JUL2010]

BROWN, Steve (Brownie) uhsplit@aol.com "...Hello to all VP'rs. I served with VP-56 from from 1975 to 1977. I was SS2 on "Travelin' Air Crew 4", later to become SS1 on Crew 8. I had a ball with you guys even though I got the short shaft towards the end. 3 great missions to remember, saving 19 Norwegian "souls" on a SAR in the far North Atlantic on Christmas Eve, a Yan Maen mail run in terrible weather, and my crew got the first ever "signature" of a Soviet diesel-electric running on batteries. An exciting post flight brief that one was!..." [18JAN2004]

BRUCE, Bob bobbruce@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1972 through 1975 and VP-45 from 1975 through 1978..." [E-Mail Updated 06OCT2003 | E-Mail Updated 14OCT2002 | 18JUL2000]

BUCKLEY, CDR James F. http://www.cpw5.navy.mil/vp8/xo.htm "...CDR Buckley was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He was commissioned an Ensign in November 1985 via Aviation Officer Candidate School. He began primary flight training in Milton, FL in January 1986 and was designated a Naval Aviator in November 1986. Upon completion of training at the east coast Fleet Replacement Squadron, he reported to the "Dragons" of VP-56 in May 1987. While attached to VP-56, he qualified as an Instructor Pilot and Mission Commander making deployments to NAS Bermuda, NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. In October 1990, CDR Buckley reported to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron ONE (VX-1), NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. CDR Buckley was the Operational Test Director for the MK-50 Advanced Lightweight Torpedo and the AGM-65F Maverick Missile System. In February 1994, CDR Buckley reported aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), home-ported in San Diego CA. He served as a Catapult & Arresting Gear Officer ("Shooter") and Flight Deck Division Officer (V-1). Additionally, he qualified as a Conning Alongside and Command Duty Officer (Underway). 1996, he reported to VP-30, for FRS Instructor Pilot duty. He served as the Assistant Aviation Maintenance Officer and Aviation Maintenance Officer. CDR Buckley next reported to VP-16 in July 1997. During his department head tour he served as Tactics Officer, CTG Operations Officer, Officer-in-Charge of squadron detachment to Panama, and Maintenance Officer. He completed a tri-site deployment to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAS Keflavik, Iceland and Panama as well as a Mediterranean deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily. In May 2000, CDR Buckley reported to Navy Personnel Command, Millington, TN where he served as the Special Assistant for Selection Board Matters. CDR Buckley reported as the Executive Officer, VP-8 in May 2003. His personal awards include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (Four), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (Three), and various other unit, service and campaign awards..." [19JUL2003]

BUCKLEY, John F. tigrathewarriorxxx@yahoo.com "...Enlisted July 1952. Boot caamp at Bainbridge, MD. Ordered to NAS Pensacola, Florida. Attached to O&R Department. Transfered to VP-18 NAS Jacksonville, Florida from July 1955 to June 1957. Transfered to ZX/VX-1 NAS Boca Chica, Florida. Transfered to VP-10NAS Brunswick, Maine with a TAD to VP-30 NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Got to NAS Brunswick, Maine December 1959, in time for deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Transfered to NAS Brunswick, Maine 1963. Left NAS Brunswick, Maine 1967 for VP-56 NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Deployed to NS Rota, Spain in P2V-7. Transitioned to P-3C at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Took a sea duty to sea duty transfer to VP-11 NAS Brunswick, Maine in 1970. Ordered to NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida 1972. Transfered to Fleet Reserve 1975..." [22JAN2007]

"...BURKE, Kenneth "Stoney"...I want to let those Shipmates of AFCM Kenneth "Stoney" Burke to know that he passed away July 27, 2000. He was my best friend for 14 years and will be sorely missed. He served in VP-56 when it was at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland when they transferred the squadron to NAS Jacksonville, Florida...Linda J. Smith ljsmith9@yahoo.com..." [17SEP2000]

BURKE, AK John D. burke@tulane.edu "...I served as an aviation storekeeper in VP-56 from November 1973 to May 1977..." [11APR2002]

BURNS, AO1 Barnie ao1p3fe@yahoo.com "...I have been in VP aviation from July 1973 to April 1988 doing inflight Ord duties out of NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Had alot of fun with VP's VP-24, VP-16, VP-5, VP-45, VP-56, and VP-49. Then out for 8 years and sure missed the flying. Returned in August 1988 to fly with VP-62, still in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Went Flight Engineer in 1999 and now am attached to VP-94 here in NAS New Orleans, Louisiana. Couldn't begin to describe the times (both good and bad) I had in the trusty P-3. She always brought me home, sometimes with less than 4 engines, but still brought me home. Wouldn't trade pratforms for anything! Am looking forward to swapping sea stories with old Shipmates. Remember...IYAOYAS!..." [05MAR2003]

BUSH, ADR3 John L. jejo@conninc.con "...I served with FASRON-121 from November 1955 until Mid 1957 when I was transfered toVP-56 at Breezy Point in Norfolk. I came into the Navy with prior service in the North Carolina National Guard. I was a buck Sgt. and came into the Navy as A1c. Made ADR3 while at NAS Chincoteague, Virginia. Lived in Pocomoke City with my bride (47 yrs). I am proud to let you know that I served with Old "Pappy" Robert L. Nansteel. He taught me alot and I respected him then as I do now. We are e-mail buddies and I still ask him for advice now & then. I got out of the Navy and enlisted in the Air Force (???) ain't figured that one out yet! It's been many years since FASRON-121 but I remember alot of good times there and working down at Power Plants. I remember a few names. Ronnie Greenly, Avery, J.O Tate Chief Bridges, a Crafton from Texas, Eugene Lux, & who could ever forget Chico Morales.Art Morey from Chelsi Vermont, Commander Johnson ( on who I dashed a cup of coffee) Threw it out the man hole door and he just happened to walk by. Well Shipmates this has been a great walk down memory lane. Got me a Boy and Girl who have given me five grandboy's and I spin a yarn or two to them. Fair winds & calm seas to jou all..." [16SEP2004]

CALANDE, CDR John Retired usn21@earthlink.net "...I served with VP-24 from 1965 through 1968, VP-30 from 1968 through 1970, and VP-56 from 1970 through 1972. I flew P2V Neptunes, SP2H-P2v7 Neptunes, P-3A and P-3B Orions. I was one of the original seven pilots to go to Lockheed for P-3C Factory training..." [E-Mail Updated 11NOV2000 | 27OCT99]

CAMPBELL, YN1(AW) Kerry D. kdcgoblue@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1983 to 1986 with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily..." [27MAR2011]

CARCANO, John jcarcano@metrolink.net "...I was in VP-56 from 1953 to 1956. My rank was AT2 and I flew on EH 12..."

CARMICHAEL, Larry K. lkcbass@hotmail.com "...I was stationed with VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1964 until Jan. 1967. I flew with LQ-5, more specifically referred to as the "Animals"!!! We made all of the usual deployments to such places as NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Sigonella, Sicily, & NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. I look forward to seing my old crew members and Shipmates at the Reunion in June at Jacksonville, Fla..." [13APR2001]

CARPENTER, JIM Hamptonsky@AOL.COM "...I WAS DELIGHTED TO HEAR FROM A VP-56 CREW MEMBER (C.W. Shealy) who was on the same cruise with me to Taranto, Italy, September of 1956. He also mentioned some names that were in my crew ( Raidoman-Tex Baird and PC-Mallette ). Hope to hear from other crew members. Also trying to locate some pictures taken on that cruise. Best regards to all..." [BIO and E-Mail Updated 11NOV98 | 17OCT98]

CARPENTER, CDR John H. "Carp" Retired carpentj@georgetown.edu "...I served with VP-56 from (06/1975-06/1978, VP-4 Detachment Special Projects / VPU-2 (07/1981-07/1983) (Plankholder), VP-45 (08/1985-11/1987), NAS Sigonella, Sicily (07/1990-05/1993) and retired in July 1994..." [E-Mail Updated 21MAR2014 | E-Mail Updated 17JUN2010 | 17JUN98]

Shipmate Requested Name Removal  [Shipmate Removed 02AUG2003 | 07DEC2001]

CARTER, AMCS (AW) Gerald (Gerry) carterg@vx9.chinalake.navy.mil "...Hi Shipmates! I started my Navy career in VP-19 (9/77-8/80) an original member of the "U.S.Olympic Dog Team". From there I moved on to VP-56 (9/80-5/82), NRD NOLA (8/82-9/85), VP-40 (10/85-2/90), CPWP ( NAS Moffett Field, California 2/90-4/93), VP-46 (5/93-10/97) and now I'm with VX-9 Vampires at NAWS China Lake. Would love to hear from old Shipmates..." [13FEB99]

CARTER, CDR Ted W. http://www.naskef.navy.mil/template5.asp?pageid=103 "...Executive Officer NAS Keflavik, Iceland - Commander Ted W. Carter enlisted in the Navy in July 1975. Upon completion of MM "A" School he reported aboard USS John Paul Jones, DDG-32 and was subsequently selected to attend the Naval Academy Preparatory School, Newport Rhode Island. He was commissioned in Ensign in May 1981 upon graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Oceanography. Upon completion of flight training, Commander Carter was designated a Naval Aviator in November 1982. After completion of Fleet Replacement Squadron VP-30, he reported to VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Flying the P-3C he made deployments to NS Rota, Spain; NAS Keflavik, Iceland; and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. During his tour he served in a variety of assignments including Flight Division Officer and Assistant Operations Officer. His last operational tour was highlighted by missions in support of the SIXTH Fleet Operations in the vicinity of Libya. In October 1986, Commander Carter reported to the Naval Academy as a Physical Education Instructor and Head Coach of the Academy's collegiate pistol team. Following his tour Commander Carter joined Oceanographic Development Squadron EIGHT, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, where he served as Aviation Safety Officer and Safety/NATOPS Department Head. He qualified in the RP-3A/D, P-3B Mod and UP-3A aircraft completing numerous worldwide detachments in support of the Oceanographer of the Navy. Upon completion of P-3 weapons system and tactical training in December 1992, Commander Carter reported to VP-1 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii where he served as Safety/NATOPS Department Head, Aircraft Maintenance Officer and Interim Squadron Executive Officer. He deployed to the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch and Operation Restore Hope. Commander Carter reported to Joint Task Force Six, Ft Bliss, Texas in November 1994 where he served as Regional Plans and Operations Division Chief. During his tour, he supported various Federal, State and local counterdrug law enforcement agencies throughout the United States in planning and executing DOD missions supporting the President's National Drug Control Strategy. In February 1998, Commander Carter joined the Strategy, Policy and Plans Directorate, U.S. Southern Command, Miami, Florida, where he served as Chief, Deliberate Plans Division and Deputy Director of Plans. He was responsible for the development, review and maintenance of all Concept and Functional Plans, as directed by the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff and Commander in Chief, U.S. Southern Command in order to meet national security objectives and support United States political/military policy for Central and South American and the Caribbean. CDR Carter's military awards include: Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2 Awards), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (2 awards), and Various service related awards. He is also authorized to wear the Distinguished Pistol Shot Badge and the Naval Parachutist Insignia..." [03JUL2003]

CARTHEN, AVCM Roy B. Retired roycar@outlook.com "...I entered in February 1941 and served with VP-55, VP-56, VP-74, VP-45, VP-49, VP-84, etc. and retired October 1963. In NAS Keflavik, Iceland in 1941 with the Geo B. Badger for the trip and with VP-55 at that time to December 1941. Came back in l942 with VP-84 in NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. VP-84 was the top submarine sinking squadron in WW2 and I was with Lt Milliard when we got the first submarine. He went on to get a second one and is now deceased. I entered as a RM3 with my first promotion and then they started aviation rates and I became a ARM2 and eventually a chief radio tech and later AVCM as maintenance chief and leading chief in VP-49 in NAS Bermuda. Some of us in VP-84 have met, had one Reunion in Pensacola. While in NAS Keflavik, Iceland, a german submarine was captured, the crew was turned over to a Norwegian group and I believe they were killed. The capture was by a navy plane and assisted by a navy ship with the submarine being brought into Iceland. A book listing all the sub activity by VP-84 has been written and all the sub kills are listed therein. I would like to hear from anyone and especially anyone who remembers the capture of the sub in the fall of l941...The truth is that the sub was captured by the English and brought to the south shore of Iceland where they worked on it. The crew was interred as POW and all but one of these was turned over to Germans at the end of the war. The one man tried to escape and was killed. The story went on to say the name was changed and it became a British submarine, BUT, I had seen the sub and it was brought into fjord near Reyjkavik and apparently this was not a known partof the situation. Also, we found that two US planes were on the scene when it was captured but it was noted that the British were the oneswho captured it... Thanks for such a great job you have done..." [E-Mail Updated 13NOV2013 | E-Mail Updated 13MAR2012 | E-Mail Updated 03DEC2005 | E-Mail Updated 28JUL2003 | BIO Updated 28JUL2003 | E-Mail Updated 01SEP2001 | 15SEP2000]

CASTEEL, AT2 James W. jcasteel@swva.net "...I was in VP-56 from 1953-1956 was radioman on EH-5. On a Med Cruise in Sept 1956 we had engine trouble and made an emergency landing on a salt water lake near Marignane, France..." [17OCT99]

CAVANARY, Kraig CAVANARYKS@KENNEDY.NAVY.MIL "...I was stationed in VP-56 from 1990 to decommission and then went on to VP-16 until 1994. Would like to hear from some old per deim types. Tim Walker where are the pictures from the wedding?..." [30APR2000]

CHESHIER, AXC Steve cheshierfamily@etcmail.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1966 to 1970 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and then NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I was an AXC and for most of that time was night shift squadron maintenance chief. I also was the flight tech on Crew 8. CDR Ben Poe was the crew pilot and Harry Grinder (who I am still occasionally in touch with) was the flight engineer. I loved the Navy although I got out in 1970 (after 12 years) to go to graduate school at Purdue in electrical engineering. I went on to get a Ph.D. at Illinois. I retired in 1998 after nearly 20 years as a university president in Georgia. I think of my friends in VP-56 often and am still in touch with several. I remember a flight to Denmark, a deployment to NS Rota, Spain, short stays in NAS Sigonella, Sicily and then a detachment to Sudha Bay, Crete. Great times!..." [E-Mail Updated 20DEC2008 | 05FEB2004]

"...CHESTNUT, CDR Lawrence Jr. "Larry"...My Father, Lawrence Chestnut Jr., passed away April 15th, 2021. He proudly served his country for 21 years in the U S. Navy and in the Naval Reserves retiring as a commander in 1977. Dad graduated from the Naval Training Command in NAS Corpus Christi, Texas in 1957. He was a pilot with VP-56 and served during the Vietnam Conflict and was a Cold War Warrior flying numerous anti-submarine warfare missions in such aircraft as the PBM-5 Mariner, the P2V Neptune and others in the late 1950's early 60's. He served alongside Pete Stiller..." Contributed by Larry Chestnut sitetrinity@yahoo.com [09MAY2021]

CHILCOTE, SN Alan W. "Chilly" spaceball94@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 (1976-1977) in the NATOPS/Safety Office. Trying to get a hold of David S. Leeper..." [16JAN2011]

CHILDS, AO2 Patrick PSCHILDS@TVA.GOV "...I served as a AO2 with VP-56 from 1988 to 1991. Would like to hear from old friends..." [27MAY2003]

CHRISTOFFERSON, AWCS Darrell J. Retired kg7mo@aboutmontana.net "...I flew with VP-56 from 1965-1970, VX-1 1970-1973, VP-16 1973-1977, then NISC Washington DC 1977-1980, USS Forrestal 1980-1982, and finally ASWOC/TSC NAS Bermuda 1982-1986. I have many great memories of flying in the P2's and P-3's and was one of the first qualified Sensor 3 operators on one of the "new" P-3C aircraft at VP-56 in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Now living in NW Montana, my home, I hear and see the old P2 and occasionally P-3 aircraft fly over my house many days every summer (especially in 2000) on their way to drop fire retardant on forest fires. VPers are the best!..." [02APR2001]

CLARK, AXC Ralph Retired onust@wayxcable.com "...VP-30 1961, VP-42 1962, VP-48 1963, VP-31 1964, VP-9 1967, VP-56 1975. Taught at NATTC Memphis, Tennessee, NAMTG NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island, NAMTG NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Flew every electronic position on SP5(A&B), and P-3(B&C). Retired in Jan 1982 and went to college. Taught Electronics, Electromechanical, Hydraulics, ETC. Would love to hear from anyone that I flew or taught with..." [21OCT2004]

CLAYTON, ALBERT M. Retired "...I WAS AT KINGSVILLE NAS 61-63. I DID SOME WORK ON YOUR P-40 AFTER A HOT ENG LANDING THERE. ALSO DID WORK ON OTHER AIRCRAFT DOWN SOUTH. YOU FOLKS KNOW HOW TO TEACH AND FLY. WAS IN VP-56 AT NS Rota, Spain. RETIRED IN 87. BUILD MODELS AND LIGHT HOUSES, NOW SAILING ON USN YTB-823 FROM PSNS, BREMERTON, WA. CIV CREWS. ANY WAY I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOU FOLKS ARE THE BEST, KEEP THEM FLYING..." [05FEB99]

CLEMONS, Mitch mdclemons@peoplepc.com "...I served in VP-56 from 1977 to 1983 mostly as SS1. I served on crews 1 and 7 and beartrap, and was Natops instructor. I now live in Kentucky with my wife and work in computer systems in the healtcare industry..." [06OCT2000 | 29SEP99]

COKER, CWO-4 Mike Retired mikecoker11@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 from November 1977 to July 1982, VP-30 (AO Aircrew Instructor) from July 1982 July 1985 and VP-22 from September 1985 to September 1988. I stayed in the Navy for 30 years and retired as a CWO-4. I had a great Navy career and the VP days were some of the best - "Have Per Diem Will Travel!"..." [19JAN2009]

COLE, AVCM James E. "Jim" jamesecole@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-56 from February 1967 to October 1972 (P2V7, P-3B Radio and P-3C IFT), NAMTD 1011 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAS Jacksonville, Florida from November 1972 to June 1976 (Instructor for P-3C WST/IFT and backup P-3C Data Handling), VP-45 from June 1976 to September 1980 (P-3C IFT, Assistant NATOPS and QAR) and retired in 1986 after broadening my career in the Attack community. I worked for government contracting with Harris Corp. and LSI until going to NADEP NAS Jacksonville, Florida in January 1995 where I managed the P-3 PAC/PAI technical publications until retiring May 30, 2008..." [BIO Updated 28APR2009 | E-Mail Updated 17JUN2005 | E-Mail Updated 24NOV2001 | BIO Updated 02MAR99]

COLEGROVE, AE2(AC) Edwin edcolegrove@att.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1963 to 1965 (Crew-3) with a deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland in 1965. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [13APR2010]

COOKE, C. Dale dcooke@mch.us "...I was with VP-56 from 1965-1968 as the MADMAN from Crew 2 - our favorite plane 145920. Bob Moore was the plane commander - the most unforgettable character in the world. Anyone remember the "Red Baron" AKA LT Kelly? Lot of good memories like backing the fuel truck into our plane during preflight, trying to drink a beer in every bar in Rota, Spain. Send a message if you remember those days!..." [22NOV2005]

COOPER, Douglas G. "Doug" coop2911@msn.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1978 to 1981 (NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Bermuda and NAS Sigonella, Sicily), VP-30 TTT 1981 to 1984, ASWOC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal from 1984 to 1986, BUPERS running the officer promotion boards from 1986 to 1989, VP-22 from 1989 to 1991 (WestPac), SecDef's Deputy Executive Secretery from 1991 to 1993, XO/CO VC-6 from 1993 to 1996, Army War College from 1996 and 1997 and then retired from SACLANT as a POLAD in 1999. I currently working as a financial Advisor for Smith Barney in Boise, Idaho. Would love to correspond with shipmates and especially crewmembers from the Dragons, Pros and Blue Geese..." [28SEP2006]

COPELAND, Johnell jc536@aol.com "...I served VP-56 from November 1975 to November 1978. 2 deployments in NAS Adak, Alaska, and 1 to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, it was the best time of my life. I learned so much, and met the best people. I miss all of them. Retired in 1994. Hope to see you in the Commisary :)..." [13JUN2006]

CORBIN, AE3 Lloyd George Jr. LLOYD.G.CORBIN.JR@VERIZON.COM "...I served with VP-56 NAS Norfolk, Virginia as an AE3 from 1963 TO 1967. I was a crew member on LQ-9 BUNO: 142542..." [29AUG2002]

"...CORNETT, CAPTAIN Charles S. Chuck Retired...Dad passed away on June 25,2004. Please feel free to contact me if you wish...LCDR Katharine J. Ray, Retired kjray1@charter.net...Commissioned under Seaman to Admiral Program in 1956. Served in VP-42 NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1958 until 1962. PPC of Crews 4 & 10 and Line Division Officer. Served as Navigator, USS Salisbury Sound (AV13), NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, 1965 until decommissioning in 1967. VP-8 from 1967 until 1970 as Maintenance Officer and PPC Crew 6. 1970 until May 1971 ASW Officer, ComPatWingsLant. 1971-1972 Admin Officer, FAW-11 NAS Jacksonville, Florida. 1973-1974 XO/CO VP-56 NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Retired June 1 as XO NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Currently residing in Gulf Breeze, Florida and volunteering as Tour Guide at Museum of Naval Aviation..." [Decease Update 29JAN2005 } BIO/E-Mail Updated 20JUL2002 | 30APR98]

COUNTRYMAN, David E. hercrep_909@altavista.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1976-1978. I arrived as an AEAA and left as an AE2. I had the opportunity to serve with some of the finest technicians in the U.S. Navy. I recognized some of the names as I was scrolling through the VP-56 "Shipmates" pages. I hope all of my Shipmates from the time I was there and everyone who served with VP-56 is well. I miss those days..." [11SEP2000]

COWAN, ADJ2 Randy burley@lighttube.net "...I served with VP-56 (1970-1972) with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal..." [13AUG2019]

CRANE, Steve Madi@penet.com "...I served with VP-48 from Nov`78 thru Oct'80. I flew mostly on crew 4 as a SS2 and then as SS1. I transferred "sea to sea" to VP-56 from Nov.'80 through Nov85 as a SS1/2/3 and 4. Please, if we flew together - send me an E-mail..." [16JAN99]

CREASY, Jim k3jjc@verizon.net "...I served on Crew 6 at VP-56 NAS Norfolk, Virginia in 1963 and 1964..." [17MAY2006]

CROCKER, AW3 Anthony W. "Tony" cisco398@outlook.com Circa 1976-1978 "...I served with VP-56 (1976-1978) with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I flew with Crew-2..." [20AUG2023]

CROCKETT, CPO Paul L. "Davy" c/o His Daughter Linda Crockett Seal southernkisst@yahoo.com "...I am looking for anyone who may have served with my Dad Paul L. "Davey" Crockett. Dad enlisted in 1946 and served with VP-MS-4, VP-56, VP-24, VS-27 and VP-44 until his retirement in 1975 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. If you knew my Dad, have any pictures of him, or just some interesting stories please contact me. Dad turns 80 next month and I would love to help him contact former Shipmates. Thank you..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 11JAN2009 | 03JUN2001]

CROW, AW1 GEORGE HortyCro@aol.com "...I came to VP-56 in 68'as an AO1 (AC) and flew wth Lcdr. Frank Beebe's crew. I changed my rate to AW and was then assigned to the crew of Cdr. Macintire CO on the first P-3C that the squadron transitioned to . My last PPC was Cdr. Meltzer CO before I retired in Mar. of 71'..." [14MAR99]

CULTICE, ASC Stephen T. Retired pastcul@aol.com "...I was an AX in VP-1 from Feb 1964 - Aug 1966 and made two deployments to NAS Iwakuni, Japan. I worked in air intelligence plus aircrew YB-10 the first tour. I worked AIMD the second. I have a series of pictures of old block 7 burning Jan 65. I was then transferred to VP-56 after Avionics B School in 1967 and left in 1969 after chancing rate to AS. I made two short tours one to NS Rota, Spain and one to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba..." [30NOV2005]

CURTIS, AMS3 Jack jack_curtis66@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 from April 1962 to Septmber 1965 with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NS Rota, Spain. I also worked as a Metalsmith at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Great memories of my time there!..." [20APR2010]

---

DAILEY, Al alandailey@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 from September 1974 to October 1978. Looking for former Shipmates..." [03MAY2004]

DASPIT, Jack fotofix@accesscom.net "...I served in VP-56 as an aircrew AT with Jez, Julie, and a few other ladies that could be bad! LQ 8 completely participated in the Cuban Crisis by locating (ECRM) missle radar sites in the hill, and bad boats (USSR Subs) by conventional and unconventional means. Snorkle and Sniffer, Sonar and nuke boat (which out ran us and the rest of the USN) and photographed the first russian ship carrying missles OUT of Cuba. It was an interesting way to spend the summer..." [20APR98]

DAUSMAN, Bob rdausma1@twcny.rr.com "...Flew as an AO on VP-56 a/c in late 70's and w/VP-MAU in the early 80's. Look forward to hearing from any of my Shipmates..." [04JAN99]

DEBLEY, Harold R. Jr. sunny_64@peoplepc.com "...I served with VP-661 and VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia from March 1952 to June 1954. I worked in the Personnel Office and then on Beach Crew..." [21JAN2010]

DECK, James A. goalie1958@AOL.com "...I'd just like to say it's good to be able to look back at all the squadron info and patches. I was a member of VP-56, VP-24, Beartrap, and two tours with staff of VP-30..." [05SEP99]

DeGRAUWE, AO1 Michael captbeyond@mindspring.com "...Still flying in the reserves and see many of the squadrons patches on the old flight jackets, that is, of squadrons long gone including my old one of VP-65...I flew with VP-56, 78-80 and still flying with VP-62 today. Jets are for kids!!..." [BIO Updated 30DEC98 | 27NOV98]

DELANEY, Gerry (Griz) gerdelaney@hotmail.com "...Served in VP-56 from 3/1973 to 6/1976 as 2nd Mech crew 4 and 12. Charged rate to DS from AMS and made DSC in 1983. Got out as DSC/AC/SS in 1989..." [09DEC98]

DENDAUW, Russ rrden@charter.net "...I would like to hear from old VP-56 buds from 1982-1985 and VP-17 from 1985-1988. I'm currently working at NAS Fallon, Nv transiet line for past 9 years and work as a part-time EMT for local ambulance service for the past 6 years..." [E-Mail Updated 09JAN2003 | 01SEP98]

DICKSON, William "Jamie" dickson1958@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-56 (01/1985-03/1988)..." [03OCT2013]

DOCKTER, Craig 'Doc' cdockter@worldnet.att.net "...I was an AW(A) with VP-56 from 1978-1980, made the NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Bermuda deployments, and would like to hear from any old shipmates who stumble across this site. ** Going below 1000 feet, LPAs are required! **..." [14DEC97]

"...DONODEO, Roger...My father, Commander Roger Donodeo, passed away June 16th, 1999. Dad was the Commanding Officer of VP-56 from December 1975 to December 1977. My father was the ONLY CO to have the "JAWS" on his aircraft. If anyone has any questions please feel free to contact me at 904-264-8011 or via e-mail. Thanks you...Mike Donodeo mdonodeo@netzero.net..." [21AUG99]

DONOVAN, AMS3 Michael mad1944@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1964-1966) and found it to be the best duty I had while in the Navy. I joined the squadron after serving 18 months in NAS Keflavik, Iceland only to be told that we were deploying to Iceland in a month. Oh well. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 02APR2019 | E-Mail Updated 22NOV2011 | 10JAN2001]

DONOVAN, CAPTAIN Tom Retired tdorionp3@gmail.com "...I served with VT-1, VT-2 (1976-1978), VP-56 (1978-1981), VP-30 (1981-1984) deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and UNITAS, VPU-1 (1984-1986) at NAS Brunswick, Maine, VP-6 (1986-1988) at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, Naval War College (1988-1990), United States Forces Japan 1990-1992) at Yakota AFB, VT-28 (1992-1994) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas as XO and CO, CNO Staff in the Pentagon, Washington, DC (1994-1999) and retired. Currently working at the Autodesk, Inc. in Arlington VA..." [22FEB2015]

DOWNS, AX1 Randy randalldowns@earthlink.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1973-1977 and then on to NAMTD 1011 (after AVIB school) where I finished my time as an AX1. I worked in the AV/ARM division of VP-56 and was sent TAD to AIMD w/c660, and again tad to Shore Patrol at NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Since I found this site I have already emailed a bunch of Shipmates I remember, and I even received a response from my favorite Commanding Officer Captain C. Cornett. Very sorry to hear about Captain Donedeo. Would love to hear from anybody who remembers me, especially if they don't remember my EARLY self!..." [E-Mail Updated 29NOV2004 | E-Mail Updated 25NOV2002 | 17NOV2002]

DUDLEY, Robert E. REDUDLEY@prodigy.net "...Served with VP-56 1967-70, VP-66 1970-72, VP-62 1972-76, and VP-94 1976-77..." [23JAN99]

DURANT, AECAW Paul R. Retired mjfrog855@cox.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1973 to 1976 and 1979 to 1982. I was in the AE shop and had many memorable moments with my friends and Shipmates. I'm sorry to learn so many have passed I still work in aviation at NAS Pensacola, Florida for L-3 Communications our former Shipmate Mr. Boyington is head of the company. I look forward to hearing from anyone who remembers me..." [30JAN2008]

DUXBURY, CAPTAIN Richard B. c/o His Son CAPT Bill Duxbury dux@sprynet.com "...Served with VP-56, VP-44, VP-68, and VP-93, flying P5M, P2V, and P-3..." [15MAY2000]

DWIGHT, AWC Retired c/o Rick Myllenbeck rmyllenbeck@yahoo.com "...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]

---

ELLIS, AMSC Carlos Retired carlosellis793@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1970-1973) with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Souda Bay, Crete, Greece. I was the Airframes Chief and FE with Crew-5. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 07MAR2016 | E-Mail Updated 07DEC2009 | E-Mail Updated 08JUN2007 | E-Mail Updated 02FEB2007 | E-Mail Updated 29JUN2004 | 06OCT2001]

ELLIS, Jack jellis1860@msn.com "...I served with VP-8 (1964-1966), VP-30 detA (1966-1968), VP-56 (1969-1971), and VP-6 (1982-1985)..." [E-Mail Updated 03MAY2004 | 19NOV98][ICQ# 22801569]

ELMORE, ATCS Dan Retired volfandan@att.net "...I served with VP-26 from June 1982 to July 1985, VP-30 from August 1985 to December 1988, VP-56 from December 1988 to June 1991, VP-5 from June 1991 to June 1992 and NAMTGD 1011 NAS Jacksonville, Florida from June 1992 until I retired as an ATCS in July 1995. I would like to hear from anyone I served with just to catch up on old times..." [E-Mail Updated 20FEB2009 | E-Mail Updated 01APR2002 | 15MAR99]

ERBSE, AE3 Gary scbuckeye@sc.rr.com "...I served with VP-56 (1963-1966) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and flew crew with LQ-10..." [17JAN2017]

ESSEL, ATR2 Thomas tommytunes61@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1967 to 1969. I wanted to let any of the guys on Crew-4 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia in end of May 1968 hunting for the sub USS SCORPION. There is a show on a channel called History International by the name of Vanishings. The particular show is being aired on April 20, 2010 at 11:30 am and then again on Aril 20, 2010 at 5:30 pm. In the show the entire VP-56 Crew-4 is on the documentary plus the P2. I was on the crew with Preston Barnhart, McClearn, LT Dillon, Bondi and others. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [14APR2010]

EUBANKS, AECS John N. Retired fesa@leading.net "...I was in other VP Squadrons through out my career. My first VP squadron was VP-23 from Jan. of 1961 until Feb of 1964. Then came my VP-49 tour after which I went to VP-30 and worked in maint control in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland until March of 1975 when I was the first and Senior Enlisted man to be assigned to the VP-30 det in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. The VP30 det/ NAS Jacksonville, Florida OIC was Commander Chuck Picard until the entire squadron eventually moved into the spaces of hangar 1000 that had been previously occupied by the decommissioned VW-4. n February of 1976 I received orders to VP-56 where I flew and was Line Division Chief until assigned to be the squadron Maintenance Chief where I continued through until returning early from a deployment to NAS Keflavik, Icelandreturning the VP-56 NAS Jacksonville, Florida Det. in March of 1978 until I retired on August of 1978..." [17MAR2000]

"...EVANS, Douglas T...Douglas T. Evans, Master Chief, U.S. Navy, Retired., passed away Saturday January 3, 2004 in Jacksonville. He was born February 28, 1942 in Andalusia, AL, the son of Ernest W. Evans and Grace Taylor Evans. He retired from the U. S. Navy following 30 years of distinguished and decorated service and was employed with Raytheon Corp. For the past 12 years. Mr. Evans was a long time resident of Clay County, a member of the Baptist Faith, and member of the Green Cove Springs Lodge #116 F.&A.M. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Myra L. Evans; his daughter Angie Crutchfield; his sons Chris Evans and wife Sabrina, and Jeff Evans and wife Lisa; also 8 grandchildren, his mother Grace Evans, brother Gene Evans; and his many friends in the community and at Whitey's Fish Camp. Funeral services in celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday January 7, 2004 in the chapel of JACKSONVILLE MEMORY GARDENS FUNERAL HOME, 111 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park with Rev. David Tarking ton officiating. Burial will follow in the Gardens of Prayer at Jacksonville Memory Gardens. Full military honors will be conferred..." Contributed by BARNEY, AVCM Bruce Retired ibbarney@comcast.net [18JAN2004]

EWING, Paul T. PTE37@AOL.COM "...SERVED IN VP-16 FROM DEC/62 TO MID 1966. FLEW WITH COMMANDING OFFICER CREW 1, MOVED FROM AT2 TO AX2 , LEFT SQUADRON FOR NATTC MILLINGTON, TN 1966. WAS IN NAS Bermuda WHEN WE LOST ONE OF OUR P-3A'S, BAD DAY. WAS IN CUBA WHEN CASTRO SHUT WATER OFF. PREVIOUSLY STATIONED WITH VP-56 IN NAS Norfolk, Virginia, 1957-1960, BROKEN SERVICE. AFTER MILLINGTON, SERVED IN VP-22 NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, THEN BACK TO MILLINGTON, AWA-SCHOOL AND RETIRED IN 1977. RETIREMENT RATE AWCS PLANK OWNER IN AW-A SCHOOL 3 SEPT. 1968..." [20DEC98]

---

"...FABIK, George G......George served with VP-23 and VP-56. George proudly served in the U. S. navy for thirty years. Following his retirement from the Navy, he worked for AT&T as a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). On January 4, 2008, George died doing one of the things he enjoyed the most - bowling. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Slovak Catholic Church in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where his funeral service was held on January 8, 2008..." Contributed by Lou Sapienza http:www.george1recovery.org [24OCT2008]

FABIK, George G. a66fox@verizon.net "...I served with VP-23 (1949 NAS Masters Field, Miami, Florida) and we flew the PB4Y-2 Privateers. Our tail letters were EH and the squadron insignia was the two "Hurricane Warning" flags. We may have been the first hurricane hunter squadron. We did lose several aircraft. The movie "Slatterys Hurricane" was filmed at Miami with VP-23...While serving with VP-56 in 1962 I was honored to be chosen for the UNITAS tour of South America. We were UNITAS IV. What were the squadrons that were involved in the first three tours and how long did they go on. It was a fantastic trip that I will never forget. I'm not sure of this but I heard that the squadron of UNITAS III didn't make the entire trip because of the Cuban Crisis and had to be recalled..." [BIO Updated 24JAN2003 | 10NOV2002]

FARINELLA, Morris c/o his son Tony Farinella tonyfar@Bellsouth.net "...My father was in VP-56 in 1940. In early 1941, when deliveries of PBMs started, VP-55 and VP-56 were combined to form VP-74. In mid 1941 VP-74 detachments from VP-74 were sent to ICELAND to run Neutrality patrols. My father was on the first deployment, and returned to CONUS in late FEB 1942 after all but one of the PBMs were destroyed. The last remaining one in ICELAND from the first deployment was brought back on board the tender Albaborale..." [10MAY98]

FAVA, CDR Mark C. Circa 2005 http://reserves.navy.mil/ "...Commander Mark C. Fava is from Charleston, South Carolina and attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on a Naval ROTC Scholarship. IN 1985, upon graduation from UNC, CDR Fava was commissioned and reported to NAS Pensacola, Florida for Naval Flight Officer training. After initial training at Pensacola, he then was assigned to the Naval Air training Unit, Mather Air Force Base, Sacramento, California, where he received his NFO wings in the fall of 1986. In February of 1987, CDR Fava joined the "Dragons" of VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. While in VP-56, he qualified as P-3C Navigator/Communicator and TACCO and Mission Commander. He served as Legal Officer and NFO NATOPS Officer and made deployments to NAS Bermuda and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. As a Special Projects Officer, CDR Fava also made numerous detachments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, and NS Rota, Spain. While at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, CDR Fava was recognized by the Association of Naval Aviation as the NAS Jacksonville Naval Flight Officer of the Year in the fall of 1989. In February of 1990, CDR Fava was selected to serve as the Flag Lieutenant for Commander, Patrol Wings Atlantic, then located in NAS Brunswick, Maine. From 1990 until the fall of 1991, he served on the staff of Rear Admiral "Jake" Tobin and Rear Admiral Jon Coleman as flag aide. In the fall of 1991, CDR Fava joined VP-62 leaving active military service to attend the University of South Carolina School of Law. He graduated from law school in 1994 serving initially as a federal judicial law clerk in Charleston, South Carolina and subsequently practicing law with private law firms their until August of 2001 when he joined Delta Air Lines as their Chief Operations Attorney. As a member of VP-62, CDR Fava has performed active duty in Italy, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, Panama, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR and Norway. In 1994, he was recognized by Naval Reserve Association as the Jacksonville area Reserve Naval Flight Officer of the Year. While in VP-62, he has served as the Quality Assurance Officer, Operations Officer, Executive Assistant to the Commanding Officer and as Detachment Officer-in-Charge..." [16JUN2005]

FIELD, Kenneth "Stoney" c/o Daughter theneds@megalink.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1955 to 1958. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [17JUN2010]

FIORDILISO, ADAN DJ (aka Haflett) djandf9@bellsouth.net "...I was with VP-56 as an ADAN when we were decomed. I then went to VP-5; then off to FE school were I was the 6th Female to graduate. Then I did a tour with VP-4. Now I am at VP-30 I still see some of you fellow Dragons every now and then. Sure do miss our Dragon Family..." [07NOV98]

FLOYD, AW1 Tom Retired floydtomt@netscape.net "...I served with VP-56, VP-48, CPW-2, TSC NAS Keflavik, Iceland, CV-64, FASO NAS Moffett Field, California, and TSC NAS North Island, San Diego, California. Retired in 1996. Nice to see some old Shipmates here. Drop me a line!..." [17AUG2004]

FOELLER, AX1 Steve sfoeller2912@gmail.com "...I served with the Naval Weapons Test Squadron (WST) (1973-1976) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland flying as IFT, VP-56 (1976-1980) with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Bermuda flying in the IFT position. On the NAS Keflavik, Iceland deployment I was the graveyard Electronics Shop lead and on the NAS Bermuda deployment I was the NATOPS evaluator. While with the Dragons it was my privilege to work with some of the most accomplished people that I have ever known. I would really enjoy hearing from my brothers..." [30MAY2021]

FOGLE, ATR2 W. T. "Frog" papafogle@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1965-1970). I flew as a Julie/Jezebel Operator on the P2 and a Inflight Electronics Technician and Radar/Electronics Technician aboard the P-3 and VP-30 (1970-1972) at NAS Moffett Field, California as an Inflight Instructor and Cypher Configuration Specialist..." [11JUL2017]

FORD, Lexy lexyford@yahoo.com "...I was a SS2 & SS1 from 80 - 83 on the Dragon's deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NAS Bermuda, and NS Rota, Spain/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. I'd like to hear from any Shipmates during that period..." [17SEP99]

FREITAG, COMMANDER William F. http://www.cprw11.navy.mil/index.php?id=30&secid=8 "...Commander Freitag was born in Washington, DC. He attended the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned in 1983. Completing flight training in March 1985, he was designated a Naval Flight Officer. Upon completion of P-3 Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) training with VP-30, Commander Freitag joined VP-56 in November 1985. While assigned to the "Dragons", he served as Avionics Division Officer, Assistant Tactics Officer and NFO Training Officer and completed deployments to NAS Bermuda and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. In September 1989, Commander Freitag reported to VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California as an instructor NFO. He served as the Student Control Officer, Aircrew Training Officer and NFO Training Officer. In July 1992, Commander Freitag reported to Commander, Carrier Group Four, where he served as Assistant Air Operations Officer. During his tour he served on every Atlantic-based aircraft carrier for Composite Training Unit Exercises. Following this tour, he was assigned in June 1994 to CPW-11 where he was assigned as a TSC Watch Officer. Following P-3 refresher training, he reported to the "War Eagles" of VP-16 for department head duty in July 1995. During this tour he served as Command Services Officer, Assistant Operations Officer, and Maintenance Officer deploying to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR; NAS Keflavik, Iceland; and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. In May 1997, Commander Freitag reported to Commander, Task Force Eighty-Four in Norfolk, VA where he served as the Force Requirements Officer. In September 2000, Commander Freitag reported to USS Nimitz as Weapons Officer and Force Protection Officer, completing an Atlantic to Pacific inter-fleet transfer while onboard. In May 2002, Commander Freitag reported to Supreme, Allied Commander Atlantic, where he became lead NATO Strategic Exercise planner. During his tour this headquarters transitioned to Supreme, Allied Command for Transformation where he became the NATO Senior Mentor coordinator. Commander Freitag's personal awards include Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (2), Navy Achievement Medal (2) and other service awards..." [12NOV2005]

FRENCH, Steve frnchmn@ticon.net "...I was in VP-56 from 65 to 67..." [12MAY99]

"...FRITZ, Francis Nicholas ...My Dad, Francis Nicholas Fritz, served with VP-9 (Deployement: NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan from November 1964 to June 1965 with Crew 9 - Tom's Cats) and VP-56 (Deployment: NAS Keflavik, Iceland from December 1971 to May 1972 wuth Crew 11). Dad passed away 20 years ago and I have just recently come across some of hs Cruisebooks and Awards. I would love to hear from any of his former Shipmates...Carol Fritz Bullard cbullard@olemiss.edu..." [13MAR2008]

FUSS, Phil phil3@mediaone.net "...I started my VP Navy career in NAS Norfolk, Virginia, VP-56, P2V's in 1967, then Pax River VP-56 again, P-3's, NAS Jacksonville, Florida VP-56 and VP-62, ComFairMed Staff in NAF Naples, Italy and finished up as Admin Officer at NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. Prior to all that, I was enlisted (AT1) on the West Coast VA-212 (FJ-4B's then A4D-1's), USS Lexington, VS-35 USS Hornet (S2F-3's), with mini cruises in USS Kitty Hawk with VS-35. I was an enlisted air crewman on the West Coast, then became an NFO in P2's, then moved up to the front seat in P-3's..." [16JUL2000]

---

GASAWAY, ADJ2 Ernest L. e-j-gas@suddenlink.net "...I served with VP-56 (08/1965-05/1966) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I worked night check crew under a ADR1 named Dusty Roades..." [05SEP2012]

GERALDI, Dr. AT3 Vince v.geraldi@verizon.net "...I served with VP-56 (08/1956-11/1957) at NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island. I caught up to the squadron (with John Fugett) at NAF Naples, Italy. I became a member of Crew 5 as Radar/ASW Operator with "Stoney" Field (fastest radioman on the East coast), Big Willy Williams AD (Missouri) and Bad Ass Weber AO3 (California). LCDR Blumenthal was the boss of this great crew. Amassed nearly 600 hours of flight skins and left USN and NAS Norfolk, Virginia in November 1957. I'm sitting here with my cruise book looking at the pictures and remembering some great times with Shipmates Croushure, Accardo, Tedesco and Malloy, all from the Big Apple. Loved the P5M flying boats but wouldn't dare get on one now! Also, looking at the tribute to the four guys killed (November 11th, 1956) when the first boat taking off from the NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal to return to the states creamed in with a crew from our sister squadron from Norfolk aboard. Would love to hear from anyone who shared the road in those days or knew any of my Shipmates back then. I am currently in contact with John FUGETT, Stoney FIELD, Harry CROUSHORE, Sam MAYS, Sal MANTINEO, Bill PAYNE, George REED, Tom SMITH and Jim LEWIS. Still looking for Williams, Webber, "Greek" Galowina, Tedesco, Malloy and any other Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 03AUG2013 | 28APR2000]

GIALLOURAKIS, AW Dan heloatp@mac.com "...I served with VP-56 (1968-1971) and flew with Crew 11. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [18NOV2012]

GIROUX, Bernie vp56@aol.com "...Hey Guys! Long time away from being a throttle jockey! I am still flying around; you can find me at PYM. Doing business in Fall River, MA, hometown, in real estate. Many thanks to CDR John McIntyre, CO, and Cdr. Meltzer, XO, at VP-56 during 1968-1969. Those were the best days of our lives..." [24OCT2001]

GLASS, AE1 Michael E. vp9p3fe@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1972-1975), NAMTD NAS Jacksonville, Florida (1976-1982), VP-9 FE (1983-1985) at NAS Moffett Field, California, Regional Contracting Center (NRRC) Indianapolis, In. (1985-1989) and the USS Saratoga (CV-3) (1990-1993) at Mayport Fl..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 02NOV2010 | 21DEC2000]

GOODWYN, CAPTAIN Richard W. http://www.nctskef.navy.mil/CFK/leaders.html "...Captain Richard W. Goodwyn graduated from the University of Delaware in 1979 with a degree in Biology. After working at DuPont for two years, he entered the Aviation Officer Candidate Program in Pensacola, Florida and was commissioned an Ensign on 2 July 1981. Captain Goodwyn entered flight training in August 1981 and after tours in VT-3 and VT-31 he was designated a Naval Aviator on 2 July 1982. After completing P-3 flight training at VP-30, he reported to VP-56 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida, where he completed deployments to NS Rota, Spain; NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal; NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. While in VP-56, he served as PR/AME branch officer, Aviation Safety Officer and Pilot Training Officer. In October 1986, he was selected for instructor duty at the P-3 Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), VP-30. During his tour, he served as Quality Assurance Officer, Pilot Training Officer and CNAL NATOPS Evaluator. In 1989, he reported to the USS AMERICA (CV-66) as the Assistant Navigator and deployed to the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and Persian Gulf, in support of Operation DESERT SHIELD/DESERT STORM. During this tour he earned his Surface Warfare Officer, Officer of the Deck (Underway) and Command Duty Officer (Underway) qualifications. His next duty station was at Commander Naval Air Force Atlantic (COMNAVAIRLANT), where he served as the Flag Lieutenant from December 1991 to January 1993. Following P-3 refresher training, Captain Goodwyn reported to VP-5, in July 1993 for his Department Head tour where he served as Command Services Officer and Maintenance Officer. He also completed deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. In July 1995, Captain Goodwyn reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel, in Washington DC, where he was the Carrier Placement Officer. While at BUPERS, he was selected for VP Operation Command. Following his tour at Bupers, he attended the Industrial College of the Armed Forces receiving a Masters of Science degree in National Resource Management. In June 1998, Captain Goodwyn reported to VP-10 in NAS Brunswick, Maine as the Executive Officer and then as Commanding Officer. During his tour, VP-10 completed a deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and participated in Operations ALLIED FORCE and NOBLE ANVIL during the Kosovo Conflict, recieved the Navy Unit Commendation Award, the COMNAVAIRLANT Battle "E" award, the AVCM Donald M. Neal "Golden Wrench" award for maintenance excellence, the CINCLANTFLT "Golden Anchor" award for retention excellence, and the Arnold J. Isbell Trophy for ASW excellence. Captain Goodwyn was next assigned to CPW/CPRW-11 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida, where he served as the Chief Staff Officer. Captain Goodwyn is currently assigned to Commander, Fleet Air Keflavik in Keflavik, Iceland, where he is the Chief of Staff..." [29JUN2003]

GORLOW, Tony tgor@mac.com "...I started flying P-3's (BUNO: 148883) in 1972 at NADC (Warminister) Johnsville, Pennsylvania while also flying the NC-121K (BUNO: 148883). Went thru IFT training at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in 1973, then back to NAS Jacksonville, Florida (after VW-4, WC-121N's, 1968 -70)) and to VP-56 (lovely NAS Sigonella, Sicily!!!). Spent a couple of years there. Then to VP-30. I'm the IFT (and one of the first qualified in them (Update II's), on the pictures of BUNO: 160292 and all those pictures over Hgr 1000. At one time I was qualified in 4 types P-3A , P-3B,, P-3C (NUD and Update II) and P-3A. Then on to the CNO Support Detachment, flying BUNO: 149676. Spent 7 years there all over the world. Then on to NAVAIR where ultimately I was the P-3C Logistics Manager (helped managed the Update III program). Left there and on to a new career, still in aviation (program manager at the FAA). Loved the P-3, have beaucoup lot of hours and experiences. Wouldn't trade them for the world..." [24JUN2009]

GRIFFITH, ADCS(AW) James W. scpo21@comcast.net "...I flew as a FE with VP-5, VP-56, VP-30, VP-11 and Naval Air Depot (NADEP) NAS Jacksonville, Florida. I am due to retire November 1998..." [E-Mail Updated 20SEP2009 | 14SEP98]

GROVE, ATC(AC) Floyd W. (Bill) (Grovvie) Retired floyd955@charter.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1962 to 1964, VP-31 Marlin Training, VP-50 from 1965 to 1966, NADC Warminster, Pa., VP-48 from 1970 to 1974 NSF Diego Garcia from 1977 to 1978, VP-9 from 1978 to 1979, and VP-31 from 1979 to 1980. Retired in October 1980 AT-1/AC. Would like to find two people if they are still around! ADR1 (?) Joe Casto stationed with VP-56 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1962-1964 and Johnny Goodman (?) same place same time..." [E-Mail Updated 10DEC2002 | 28FEB98]

GROTH, AVCM(AW) Carl vravcm@roadrunner.com "...I served with VP-49 (1976 to 1979), VP-30 (1979 to 1982), HS-9 (1982 to 1984), VP-56 (1984 to 1988), NAS Bermuda (1988 to 1992) and FTC Mayport (1992 to 1993). I flew in VP as an IFT. I currently work for BellSouth Mobility. I am also in the Naval Reserve and drill with VR-54 as the Maintenance MCPO. I will always remember my years spent in VP and the people who made those times great..." [E-Mail Updated 20JAN2007 | 21MAY2000]

GUTHRIE, AT2 Carl kandb724@bellsouth.net "...Served with VP-661 and VP-56 1950-1954.was in squadron when 661 was decommissioned and 56 commissioned. Flew with EH3 in PBM's and was assigned to EH1 when first P5M's were delivered.Have great memories of Shipmates and the places we got to see and visit..." [E-Mail Updated 21JUN2001 | 30DEC2000]

---

HAHN, LCDR Gerald L. Retired hahnretreat@juno.com "...I'm the son of LCDR Gerald L. Hahn (ret). He served from '57 to '79 in VP-49, Pensacola ground school instruction, Short Haul Interisland Transport ( NAS Agana, Guam), VP-56 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, FAW-3 Staff, ComFairWingSlant Staff (both NAS Brunswick, Maine), VXE-6 ( NAS Point Mugu, California and McMurdo Station) and finally retired as Range Ops Officer for PMTC NAS Point Mugu, California. The Navy life treated us well. Any of my dad's squadron mates may e-mail him at hahnretreat@juno.com. Thanks for the great site and tons of memories...David M. Hahn downhillfast@juno.com..." [16MAR2001]

HAKEY, AECS David L. "Shakey" Retired david.hakey@navy.mil "...Attended Boot Camp (August 1965) at the NATC Great Lakes Chicago Il, VA-122 NAS Lemoore, California (1965-1966) AE Shop, AE "A" School (1966) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1966, NAS Cubi Point, Philippines (1966-1969) OMD Line Trouble-Shooter out of the AE shop, VP-31 (1969) at NAS Moffett Field, California FE completed training, VP-46 (1969-1972) at NAS Moffett Field, California with deployments to NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan, NAS Adak, Alaska, NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam and NS Sangley Point, Philippines, NAS Rheam Field, Imperial Beach, CA (1972-1974) AIMD, VP-4 (1974-1977) at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii FE Instructor and NATOPS Evaluator with deployments to NAS Agana, Guam. NAS Cubi Point, Philippines and U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand, VP-23 (1977-1980) at NAS Brunswick, Maine NATOPS and QA with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NSF Diego Garcia BIOT, VP-30 (1980-1983) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida FE (for both Domestic and Foreign students) and NATOPS Evaluator, FE CNAL Evaluator (1983-1984), VP-56 (1984-1987) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida Maintenance Control, FE Division and Operations Division with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Keflavik, Iceland, Senior Enlisted Academy (1987) at Newport, RI (SEA), NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (1987-1990) Naval Aviation Maintenance Office and retired. I currently work for NAVAIR PMA209 Air Combat Electronics..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 18NOV2011 | E-Mail Updated 16JUL2001 | 09SEP98]

HALL, Donald d.hall56@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1975-1978), VP-94 (1979-1981) and VP-9 (1981-1982)..." [E-Mail Updated 20MAR2014 | 20DEC2006]

HAMMOND, Mike squirrelleye@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1982-1988) with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal and NAS Bermuda. Who would have thought we could drink that much and still be on the Ready-One or the Ready-Two. I can remember arriving in NAS Keflavik, Iceland, going to the Marine Club, partying till the sun went down on us..." [E-Mail Updated 13APR2012 | 26DEC99]

HANCOCK, Robert TimberAm@aol.com "...Served in VP-56 86' to 88'. It was a great time in my life to serve with the fine men and women of this great Squadron. Anyone know what happened with Cheif Carl Groth?..." [14OCT98]

HANKINS, CDR Doug Retired dhankin@exis.net "...VRC-50 (77-79), VP-45 (79-82), CVN-70 (82-84), VP-30 (85-87), VP-56 (87-89), NAMTRAGRUDET NAS Jacksonville, Florida OinC (89-91), CVN-65 (91-93). Hello to all Shipmates. Feel free to drop me a line..." [14MAY98]

HANNA, AW2 William R. billr@vahanna.org "...I attended AWA School in NAS Memphis, Tennessee (06/1968) and served with VP-56 (1969-06/1972) with two deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. VP-56 was first squadron to receive P-3C aircraft. Got married two days before second deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Still married to same girl -- 50 years in November. I would love to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 14APR2021 | 03SEP99]

HANSEN, Robert L. minnfishervergas@aol.com "...Started my Navy career August 1955 in San Diago, Ca., A school in NAS Memphis, Tennessee, NAS Glynco, Georgia (Worked on the flight line and engine shop), and VP-56 NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1957 to 1959. I flew most of the time on plane Crew 3 as Plane Captain. I remember a very good time had on the P5Ms. Would like to hear from anyone from that time..." [07DEC2003]

HANSEN, AWC "Skip" Retired johan77@comcast.net "...Served with VP-56 (1965-1968), VX-1 (1969-1972), NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1973), VP-11 (1973-1977) and NADC (Warminister) Johnsville, Pennsylvania (1978-1979)..." [E-Mail Updated 10APR2018 | 24SEP1997]

HANSON, AO3 Donald R. krunchbird@prodigy.net "...I was in VP-56 from oct 52 till april 56. I served on eh5, eh11, eh7 then on eh1 at time of release from active duty. I was an Ao3. I was on watch the nite we lost our plane on the seawall. Howell ao3 was killed that nite taking my place on that flight while I stood his ramp watch..." [10MAR2005]

HARDEN, Larry D. lharden1@mindspring.com "...I was a yeoman in VP-56 1969 - 1972. I sorted all the mail for the squadron during two six month deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Now, that's fond memories! Discharged in November 1972 NAS Jacksonville, Florida. I remember Cdr. H. P. Fillingane as the best C. O. anyone could report to. Haven't heard of his whereabouts since, but would truly enjoy hearing from him. Also, YNC R. A. Benda and YN2 Walter A. Lacy. Meltzer was also C.O. for a while but I don't remember him too well. Life gives us fond memories. Hope you all had as good a tour as did I. Regards..." [24FEB2000]

HARRINGTON, AT2 Burt burtnmaryjo@sbcglobal.ne "...I was an AT2 on both VP-56 3 and 4 boat 1953-1956. We operated from NAS Norfolk, Virginia. We made annual trips to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR with the USS Currituck (AV-7). We also traveled to NAS Bermuda, NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, NAS Jacksonville, Florida and NAS Pensacola, Florida. I could include a picture taken at one of our Christmas parties. I later flew P2Vs as an ATC out of Orange County, CA..." [22MAR2005]

HARRIS, John E. Jr. john.e.harris.jr@lmco.com "...I would like to hear from some of the people who flew in the 1962-64 timeframe with VP-26. I was on Crew 11 and deployed to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, Key West for the Cuban Crisis, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Had a great tims and re-enlisted. After B school did a tour on the A-NEW program at Naval Air Development Center Johnsville and then VP-56 before I got out and went to work for Lockheed. Hope some of you are out there..." [18JUN2003]

HARRISON, AT2 Karl karl.harrison@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1982-1985) AIMD W/C 640 and W/C 690 and NAS Jacksonville, Florida (1986-10/1986). I was trying to find ATC Showalter..." [E-Mail Updated 02JAN2014 | 24JAN2001]

HART, Marshall "Frog" Retired jester.56@att.net "...I served with VP-45, VP-56, VP-49, VP-11 (deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily) and VP-10 (January 1991 to December 1995) as an Inflight Ordnaceman. I hope to visit NAS Jacksonville, Florida soon..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated | 04AUG2003]

HARVEY, YN Rick rickharvey61@yahoo.com "...Served as Communications Yeoman with VP-56 from 1981 to 1983 then CNO Security Pentagon from 1983 to 1986 last duty station Homestead Airforce base - Naval Security Group..." [28MAY2007]

HAWKINS, Don Retired hawkinsd1@prodigy.net "...I served with VP-56 from APR65 through DEC67 as one of those infamous "ground-pounders" (PN3) with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NS Rota, Spain. I have since served in other aviation units but never enjoyed serving with aviation more than with the Dragons of 56..." [05FEB99]

HEALY, John jfhealy@fedex.com "...I was in VP-56 from 68 to 71, VP-30 from 71 to 75, and VP-40 from 78 to 80. Now with FedEx as a training advisor..." [30OCT2000]

HEARD, Robert robertheard@sc.rr.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1977 to 1981. Although I was not flight crew, rather a "ground pounder", my time with VP-56 is still contains some of the more memorable times in my life. Some of those memories include deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Bermuda, and NAS Sigonella, Sicily (with the standard dets), but also the UNITAS exercises which took us on "diplomatic excursions" through South America and the Caribbean. I would love to hear from any of my old squadron members..." [E-Mail Updated 20MAY2011 | E-Mail Updated 26MAR2004 | 21MAY99]

HEILMAN, REAR ADMIRAL (Sel) Steve http://www.amdo.org/heilman.html "...Captain Heilman was born in Defiance, Ohio, and raised in Des Moines, Iowa. He joined the Navy in 1969 after earning his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Drake University. He reported to Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida in April, 1970, and was commissioned #1 in his Class on 24 July, 1970. Following 16 weeks of additional training at the Aviation Maintenance Officers' School, NATTC Memphis, Tennessee, Captain Heilman reported to VP-56, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, where he participated in the fleet introduction of the P-3C aircraft. After a squadron change of home port from NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to NAS Jacksonville, Florida, Captain Heilman accompanied VP-56 on deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Bermuda and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. In May, 1974, Captain Heilman was transferred to VT-28, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas where he managed the maintenance support effort for 47 TS-2A aircraft. In late 1975, the Navy introduced its new T-44A turboprop aircraft into the Training Command inventory. Captain Heilman assisted Training Airwing FOUR shift from a full organic support program on the TS-2A to full contract maintenance on the T-44A. From July, 1977 to September, 1979, Captain Heilman was assigned to Attack Squadron FIFTY-TWO, NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. He made two WESTPAC deployments with VA-52, embarked both times in USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63). In October, 1979, Captain Heilman received orders to the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Washington, D.C. He served as the first Assistant Program Manager (Logistics) for the Navy's new Consolidated Automated Support System (CASS) Automatic Test Equipment. In December, 1982, Captain Heilman transferred to USS Ranger (CV-61) in San Diego, California as the Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) Production Officer. Eighteen months later he was selected for promotion into the CV-61 AIMD Officer Department Head billet. Captain Heilman made his third WESTPAC deployment with Ranger, and took his AIMD through a Complex Overhaul at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton Washington. During his 42-month tour with the ship, Ranger's AIMD was awarded two consecutive COMNAVAIRPAC Black "E" Battle Efficiency Awards. In July, 1986, Captain Heilman reported to the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, Washington, D.C. for graduate-level training in Joint and Combined logistics operations and industrial mobilization planning. After graduation, he returned to NAVAIR to serve as Deputy Director of the Support Equipment Engineering Division. In November, 1988, Captain Heilman was nominated to be the Aerospace Maintenance Duty Officer (AMDO) Detailer in the Bureau of Naval Personnel, a position he held until October, 1990. On 15 October 1990 Captain Heilman returned for his third tour in NAVAIR, this time as the Deputy Director, Aviation Depot Business Planning Division (AIR-431). He left AIR-43 in April, 1992 moving up to serve as NAVAIR's Executive Director for Logistics and Fleet Support (AIR-04B). During this period, Captain Heilman was selected for a major command assignment. He received orders to the Naval Aviation Depot, Alameda, California in December, 1992 to serve as Executive Officer. Captain Heilman became Commanding Officer of NADEP Alameda in July, 1994. In 1995, NADEP Alameda was presented with the President's Federal Quality Award for Leadership and Management Excellence. Captain Heilman detached from NADEP Alameda in January, 1996 and reported to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations as Head of Naval Aviation Maintenance Programs and Policy (N881), a position he held until October, 1997. In October, 1997 he left the CNO Staff to return, once again, to the Naval Air Systems Command where he currently serves as the Executive Director for Aviation Industrial Operations. Captain Heilman wears the Legion of Merit Award, the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), the Navy Commendation Medal and various unit awards and campaign ribbons..." [29JUN2003]

HELMS, AE3 Gary B. gary.helms@earthlink.net "...I was attached to VP-56 from late 1958 thru 1961. Crewed on P5M-2 on11 boat as AE3 & "key pounder". Later we transitioned into P2Vs. (What a change from water to ashpalt). Was there when our Beaching Crew won a big award for most planes launched in a specific time frame. Played intramural football & a member of the softball team that won the Atlantic Fleet Championship. Recently had the wonderful pleasure of getting to see Geo.T. Alexander after 45 years, who was also in our squadron. Trying to find Mel Wicks from Ohio and Roger West from Ala. Anyone out there know where these guys are?..." [12OCT2005]

"... HELTON, William Allen...My father, William Allen Helton, died at age 79 in January 1997 from heart and lung complications. Dad served in the Navy from 1942 to 1972 with prior pilot experience. He now rests in Arlington Cemetery. Dad's flight logs show he served with VP-56 and VP-148...Wayne Helton wahelton@comcast.net..." [01NOV2007]

HOFFMAN, Jeff jeff-hoffman@excite.com "...I was in VP-56 from 1983-1985. I actually started off on the USS Forrestal in 1981. After the Dragons, I spent 3 years at AIMD NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Then to VR-24 in NAS Sigonella, Sicily from 1989-1991. I finished up at HC-2 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia in 1992..." [26SEP2002]

"...HOGAN, Ralph J. "Hogie"...My Father, Ralph J. Hogan "Hogie", served with VP-56 (1956-1959). I am looking for any information from anyone who may have known him. He was a Plane Captain on LQ-11 (P5M-2 I believe). I would really like to hear from anyone who may remember him or who may have pictures of LQ-11 after it had the "Hogans Goat" painted on it under the cockpit glass. Thanks..." Contributed by Michael S. Hogan putz48@yahoo.com [E-Mail Updated 23FEB2016 | 21APR2003]

HOLCOMBE, Russell T. bigpecair@aol.com "...I had the honor of beeing assigned to VP-56 at NAS Sigonella, Sicily in 1973. I was the NAF SAR Crewman and Air Traffic controller. I was tried as a experiment to do Air Control in a P-3 air-to-air. I am looking for Louie the Gross Out King Crew Chief on Crew 2 I belive. All of you guys were the greatest. You made flying my greatset adventure in the Navy. Give em hell Dragons!..." [16MAR2000]

HOWELL, David davidhowellccl@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1966 to 1969. My hometown was Milledgeville, GA but now live in Lavonia, GA where I am a City Councilman and Vice Mayor..." [21OCT2009]

HOWER, Loy "Howie" loyhower@usa.net "... current member of VP-40. Previously attached to VP-56, VP-45, and NADC (NAWCACDIVWAR)..."

HOWARD, AMS3 Chris choward40@yahoo.com "...I was assigned to VP-56 from Jan 78 to July 1980. Man that was the best time of my life. Former Shipmates fell free to contact me..." [29MAR2007]

HULIEN, AE1 Charlie Retired Circa 1960's 4nogaps@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1965 to 1970. I flew bow observer on P2V 145915, Crew 6 (I could find NAS Sigonella, Sicily using the sniffer) and later became a Flight Engineer on the P-3C's. Anyone remember the Road Runner? I taught Pilot and Flight Engineer Fam at NANTD NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and flew with VP-24. Retired from the USN and worked for Lockheed as a P-3 tech rep and a Quality Engineer on the F117A Stealth Fighter. Sure enjoyed my times in the VPNavy..." [E-Mail Updated 26MAR2020 | E-Mail Updated 02MAY2007 | 25FEB2001]

HUMPHREY, Dale humphrec@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-45 from 1963 to 1967, VP-30 (P2's)from 1967 to 1968, VP-16 from 1971 to 1975, VP-30 (Instructor FE from 1975 to 1978, VP-56 (NATOPS FE) from 1978 to 1981 and VP-30 (Instructor FE) from 1981 to 1984. I would like to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 29OCT2006 | 00XX97]

---

IACHINI, Carlo (Ike) Shu10933@aol.com "...Was in VP-56 from Oct 1953 until June 1956. Was on 9 boat and then 5. Had many flights and some were real interesting. Single engine landings were not my cup of tea. Anchored on the Rappahanoc River, NAS Bermuda, Gitmo, and Porto Rico. Not counting hurricane evacuations to NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Will not forget, nor desire to relive the hairy ones..." [30MAR99]

IMHOF, P. J. "PJ" pjdaddypaddy@att.net "...I served with VAP-62, VAH-15 (3rd Crewman), VP-56, VP-45, NAS Lakehurst, New Jersey, HS-2, HT-8A, HT-18 and HC-1 Detachment 3..." [E-Mail Updated 07AUG2017 | E-Mail Updated 17MAY2011 | E-Mail Updated 30NOV2004 | E-Mail Updated 08FEB2003 | E-Mail Updated 12AUG98]

INGLE, CPO Darryl Retired ingle51@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-30 (01/1980-09/1982) as CNAL NATOPS Evaluator, VP-56 (10/1975-12/1979 and 10/1982-08/1987) and retired while assigned to CPRW-11 (1993). While serving with VP-56 I flew as a SS-3 on Crews 9, 10, and 12 (earned the Battle E during our 1986 NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment). Left the Navy and worked for Duval County Schools and then Logistic Services International, Inc. (VP-30 Learning Center Administrator). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 06JAN2017 | 29JAN2000]

IRELAND, ADCS William (Bill) A. Retired gummadoom@comcast.net "...I served with HT-18 (1971 to 1974), VP-6 (1974 to 1977), HT-18 (1978 to 1980), VP-44 (1980 to 1983), VF-45 (1983 to 1987), VP-56 (1987 to 1990), AIMD NAS Jacksonville, Florida from (1990 to 1993) and retired after 22 years of service..." [E-Mail Updated 02DEC2007 | 18AUG98]

---

JABLONOWSKI, PR1 Raymond rayjablonowski@charter.net "...I served with VP-30 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from April 1972 to February 1976 (TAD to AIMD most of the time) and VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida from February 1976 to May 1979 (TAD to AIMD most of the time)..." [25APR2010]

JENNINGS, YN3 Jimmy jenningsiii@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1982-1983) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." [07FEB2017]

JOHNSON, Edward edjohn3408@gmail.com "...I served with RVAH-3 (1978-1979) at NAS Key West, Florida, NATC (1979-1981) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-10 (1981-1986), AIMD (1986-1989) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-56 (1989-1991), VP-45 (1991-1995) and Naval Research Laboratory FLighT SUPPort DETachment (NRLFLTSUPPDET) (1995-1998) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [11MAR2017]

---

KELSAY, AECS(AW) Ken Retired asw31@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1973 to 1976 and 1978 to 1982. I was in the AE Shop and later Maint Control. Made 1st class and Chief while in VP-56. It is sad to see that so many we served with are no longer with us..." [31JAN2008]

KECK, Randy keck.randy@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-30 from 1979 to 1983, VP-56 from 1983 to 1987 with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily and back to VP-30 from 1987 to 1991. Any chance to catch a Space A flight on a P-3 as a Navy Retiree..." [16JUN2010]

KEUP, PNSN Glenn W. glennkeup@hotmail.com "...Stationed with VP-56 - March 1968 to July 69...PNSN at the time. Did the move from NAS Norfolk, Virginia to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and the change from P2s to P-3s. Started out as a Airman, but changed to SN and went Personnelman. Called myself one of the first APNs AVIATION PERSONNELMAN. Knew more about aviation than most blackshoes..." [02APR2001]

KIMMEY, AWC(NAC) Russ Retired RKimmeyP3C@aol.com "...Duty stations include: ASWOC/TSC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal 1976 - 1977, VP-49 1978 - 1979, VP-30 1979 - 1983, VP-56 1983-1987, AW (A1) School NATTC Millington 1987 - 1992, Line of Duty Investigator & Physical Security Officer NATTC Millington 1992 - 1994. Now working for Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Facilities Management Services..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 13OCT2001]

KING, AT1 Jack G. Retired 303 S Du Quoin St Benton, IL 62812-1460 "...I served with VP-661 from 1952 to 1953. VP-661 was redesignated VP-56 early 1953. I went USN VP-661 was a reserve squadron at NAS Anacostia, Washington, D.C.. I was an AL in 1946 with ATU-10 NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VR-22 from 1961 to 1962, VAH-3, VAH-6, VAH-8 NAS Sanford, Florida, OS2U Squadron 7 NAS Pensacola, Florida in 1945, VC-33 from July 1953 to February 1955, VS-27 from 1957 to 1961 got manny hrs R4D8 and 5 at Oceana (was there 50-51-63-64), flew much hrs UF1 NAS Atlantic City, New Jersey from 1955 to 1956. Did some ferry VRF31 also flew radio on B17 Johnsville development center between VC-33 and back to NAS Atlantic City, New Jersey. We had infra-red aboard plane at develop stage..." [12MAY2004]

KOMP, Theodore J. johnmkomp@aol.com "...Assigned to duty VP-56 in 1954/56. Aircraft Marlin P5M-1 and P5M-2. Looking for anyone from the Squdron boats 1 thru 12..." [20FEB2000]

KOON, AMS2 Dave Circa 1970 dkoon2007@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 (1969-1972)..." [E-Mail Updated 21FEB2014 | PIX Added 08APR99 | 00APR98]

KOONTS, AT2 Billy Circa 1956 billkoonts@aol.com "...I was a crewman on a P5M with VP-56 from NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I started as an AT Airman and flew as Second Tech. When I got out of the Navy I was an AT-2 and was First Tech. I flew on 9 Boat P5M-1 and -2..." [PIX Added 13APR2002 | 16JUL2001]

KOZLOWSKI, CS2 Ed hotglass@buddabellyglass.com "...I served with VP-56 from December 1968 through October 1969. Was a baker and also worked in the flight galley. How do I get a patch from the Dragons?..." [26JUL2005]

KUEHLER, CDR Don Retired DKuehler@aol.com "...I served with VP-6, VP-31, VP-56, and again with VP-31, and with hours driving the P2V-2, P2V-3, P2V-4, P2V-5F, P2V-6, and P2V-7 can't say enough about the old Peter Two..." [02FEB98]

KUSZYNSKI, AE David jetdoctor@cox.net "...I served with VP-56 from January 1960 to October 1963 as an AE and was an aircrewman aboard LQ-8..." [09FEB2006]

---

JOHNSON, ADCS Doug Retired cowboy103941@yahoo.com "...I joined VP-56 in July 1975, as an ADJ1, worked Powerplants shop with then ADC Billy Bell. Made the NAS Keflavik, Iceland Deployment and the NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment in 1976. Made ADC during the NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment and made about half the NAS Keflavik, Iceland deployment in 1978. I have never in my Navy career worked with a finer group of professionals as was in VP-56 at that time. Would like to hear from anyone attached to the squadron during this period. I'm presently retired and living in Cleveland, Georgia..." [E-Mail Updated 26OCT2010 | BIO Updated 15AUG2004 | E-Mail Updated 10SEP2002 | E-Mail Updated 06FEB2000 | 08JUN98]

Shipmate Requested Name Removal  [Shipmate Removed 29JUL2002 | 28JUL2002]

JUKICH, MIKE majukich@cci-htc.com "...I JOINED VP-56 IN JAN 1960 TO SEPT 1963. I WAS ON CREW LQ1 & LQ4 AS A AMS3 & THEN A P/C. WE WERE STATIONED AT NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM THE OLD CREW..." [E-Mail Updated 27MAR2000 | 04JAN99]

---

LAKE, ADJ1 Gary R. Retired williej@westco.net "...I served in VP-44 from April 1961 until February 1970. I am interested in hearing from fellow ship mates. I was flight engineer on CDR. Gigliotti's crew when I left the squadron. I returned to Naval Air Test Center NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to service test, then transferred to Weapons Test P-3 line where I retired August 1, 1973. Also served in VP-56 flying P5M's April 1958 until April 1959..." [08JAN99]

LALLY, CDR Bob http://www.atsugi.navy.mil/cprw1/page4.html "...Commander Bob Lally graduated from Georgia Tech in 1982. Following flight training, he reported to the Dragons of VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, in June 1984. CDR Lally deployed with VP-56 to NAS Keflavik, Iceland; NAS Sigonella, Sicily; and NAS Bermuda. Of significance, during the 1986 NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment, VP-56 flew combat missions in support of combat operations against Libya (Operation EL DORADO CANYON). In December 1987, CDR Lally received orders as Flight Instructor to VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California. In October 1989, he reported to Carrier Group SIX (CCG-6) at Mayport, Florida, to serve aboard USS FORRESTAL (CV 59) as Flag Secretary/Flag Lieutenant. CCG 6 staff embarked on the missions of Operation DESERT SHIELD, Operation DESERT STORM, Operation PROVIDE COMFORT, and a variety of shipboard detachments to the Caribbean in support of Joint Task Force FOUR counter-narcotics operations. CDR Lally reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel (BUPERS) in Washington, DC as the VP Sea/Shore Detailer and served as the Naval Aviation Shore Coordinator. Following refresher training at VP-30, CDR Lally was assigned to VP-56, "Grey Knights" in NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. During the tour, he deployed to Central Command (CENTCOM)/5th Fleet and served as Operations Officer, Officer in Charge of Masirah, Oman, Cobra Gold 1995, and CARAT 1995 in Thailand and Malaysia. In November 1996, he reported to CPW-10 where he served as Operations Officer and Chief Staff Officer. In January 1997, he then reported to COMMANDER, PATROL WINGS PACIFIC as Assistant Chief of Staff for Manpower. Additionally, he took on the role as Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Officer for the congressionally mandated closure of NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and ultimate move to MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Prior to reporting as Executive Officer of VP-9, he earned a Master of Science Degree in National Strategic Studies from National War College at Fort McNair, Washington, DC. In July 2001, CDR Lally assumed command of the Golden Eagles of VP-9 while on a CENTCOM/5th Fleet deployment. During the squadron's combat deployment supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM-Afghanistan and the global war on terrorism, VP-9 flew more hours than any patrol squadron since the Vietnam era. While serving with VP-9, the squadron was recognized for its efforts as the Chief of Naval Operation's Battle E Patrol Squadron for 2001. Upon arrival home in December 2001, Association of Naval Aviators; Navy League; Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Force, Pacific; and local community leaders recognized numerous Golden Eagles for their unselfish, dedicated individual efforts in support of combat operations. CDR Lally flew more than 30 combat missions which included more than 400 combat hours and the first strike missions by Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Forces in the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility. In July 2002, he reported to his current command, CPRW-1, Task Force 57/72. He initially served as Operations Officer and is now Chief Staff Officer. CDR Lally's awards include the Bronze Star, Air Medal (First strike/First flight), Meritorious Service Medal with one star, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal with five gold stars/with two combat distinguishing devices..." [29JUN2003]

LAMBERT, AK3 Bernard G. J. mempep5271@msn.com "...I served with VP-56 (1960-1964) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia..." [18AUG2013]

LANKFORD, AW Jonathan j7l@bellsouth.net "...I served as an AW in VP-56 and exited the Navy in October 1976. Don Perkins trained me and was an E-6 at the time..." [22SEP2002]

LARY, AET2 Frank fplary@charter.net "...Attended AET School in NAS Memphis, Tennessee, ASW School in NAS Norfolk, Virginia, Flight School in NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia (05/1961-06/1963) with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1962) and NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (Cuban Crisis)..." [21OCT2013]

LASK, AO Mary ask4mary@charter.net "...I served with VP-56 (1988-1991)..." [25SEP2012]

LAUDANDO, AZ Anthony laudandoa@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 (09/1969-07/1971) in Maintenance Control..." [27NOV2014]

LeCONTE, AT3 William Louis ...Circa 1954... wleconte2@gmail.com "...I served with VP-661 and VP-56 (1952-1955) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I flew as Radar/Radio Crew aboard the PBM's and P5M. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 09JUL2012 | E-Mail Updated 11JUN2003 | 29SEP98]

LEE, AFCM Charles Retired crew23@tds.net "...I flew with VP-45 from 1969 to 1974 and VP-56 from 1978 to 1981 as a Flight Engineer..." [E-Mail Updated 21MAY2001 | 27DEC97]

LEE, James jlee418735@aol.com "...I initally served in the second PBM squadron commission, VP-56 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia in 1941. The squardron was later transferred to NAS Banana River, Florida and was changed to TTSA. After seving there for three years I wa assigned to NAAS Harvey Point, North Carolina and was later assigned to MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. I joined squadron VP-16 and served a tour of duty in the Pacific arriving at Saipan at the time of its invasion. Upon returning to the states I was reassigned to NAS Banana River, Florida again until I left the Navy in 1947..." [17MAR2001]

LEEPER, David S. Retired jenndave@citlink.net "...I was a member of VP-56 from the beginning of 1976 until September of 1979. I retired from the Navy in February of 1997. I am on somewhat of a quest to locate any of my old Shipmates from my "56" days. Fair winds..." [11JUN2002]

LeTENDRE, AMS3 Paul L. pattyandpaulletendre@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1960-1963) with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (during the Cuban Missle Crisis) and UNITAS-4 (South America on President Kennedys people to people program) on LG-5..." [E-Mail Updated 13SEP2013 | 07JUN2012]

LEWIS, Brian Lee Jr. Blewis@tng.net or Brianlewis@juno.com "...I served in VP-49 from April 89 to Mar. 92. I also spent a short time in VP-56 From 88 to april 89. I was an acoustic AW2 on board CAC1 VP-49. I cross rated in 92 to an air traffic controller. Looking to speak with a great bunch of guys that I had the privilege to fly with..." [ICQ #17456768] [11SEP98]

LEWIS, Jim jlewis7045@aol.com "...Did two tours with VP-56. October 1957 - June 1960 as a radioman/tech on 5 boat. Did a tour with VW-13 Crew 2 (EC-121's) and came back for a second tour from 1965 to 1966 with Crew 12. Loved those P2V7's. The plastic nose cone (MAD/Sniffer) was a great place to view the world. Especially during madtraps. Those were the days my friends! We thought they would never end!..." [03JUN2003]

LIMA, Steve salima@ameritech.net "...I served with Crew 7 as an AN from 1977 to 1980. It was a great time in my life. Looking for anyone who served during the same time..." [24JUN99]

LINDNER, Max lindner3@worldnet.att.net "...Served with VP-5, VP-30, VP-49, VP-56, and CPW-11..." [04FEB2002]

LIVERMORE, Richard ral8888@aol.com "...Served with VP-56 crews 1 & 7 from 1964-1966..." [10JUL98]

LUYCX, Ron ron_luycx@yahoo.com "...I served as a SS 1/2/4 in VP-56 from 1981-1984 and as a SS1 in VP-66 from 1990 to 1992..." [E-Mail Updated 20NOV2004 | 11AUG99]

---

MACYGIN, AD1(NAC) Michael R. Retired 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]

MANDERVILLE, CWO Thomas Retired cadillac2856@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1980-1983) and retired 1998 as a CWO onboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67)..." [08FEB2020]

MANN, AD1 Al Retired mannal@2mawcp.usmc.mil "...I served in VP-56 From 1983 to 1987 (VP-30 from 1979 to 1983). I worked in Power Plants my first year, then Maintenance Control. My tour in VP-56 has the best of all, I remenber that time as GOOD TIMES. I have worked for NAESU/NATEC sence 1992 to date. I am now a C-130/T56 Engine Rep. and the EA6B supervisor here at NAS Cherry Point NC..." [12JUN2001]

MANN, PHCS Gary A. Retired retphcs@aol.com "...I served with VP-9 from March 1974 to October 1978. I made deployments to NAS Iwakuni, Japan and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. Even spent a year one month in NSF Diego Garcia with the donkeys and the chickens. Worked in the AI shop and flew with all the crews. I also served with VP-56 from 1967 to 1970. Started off at NAS Norfolk, Virginia in P2s, deployed to NS Rota, Spain, and returned to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to get the new P-3C. Miss the flight hours, the 0:dark30 preflights, and the Shipmates from two great squadrons. Anyone out there a Turtle?..." [23MAR2004]

MANTINEO, Sal SALBOY69@aol.com "...I would like to hear from anyone who was in VP-56 from 1955 through 1959. I was on Crew 4 with Roy Fell, Engign Labella, Pete Mihelic, ADRC who I see every so often..." [15AUG99]

MARSH, AT1 Joseph marshjl27@gmail.com "...Served with VP-56 as an IFT from 1979-1984 and 1987-1991 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." [12MAR2010]

MAUST, AO2 Gladen pawpaw8g@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1970-1971) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (Aircrew) with two deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland..." [10MAR2012]

MAYS, AE3 Samuel Sam2894069@yahoo.com "...I was in VP-56 May 1956 through February 1959. AE3 on crew LQ-11 BUNO: 126495. I would like to hear from anyone that served the same time. I was on the cruise September 1956..." [17FEB2001]

McCRANEY, Donald Lee mccran@gtcom.net "...I was in VQ-1 from 1974 through 1976. I left VQ-1 in 1976 and went to VP-56 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida until 1978 when I got out of the Navy and returned to Alabama. I'm especially interested in anyone that can tell me something about the Saltiest-Ole-Dog in the WestPac - Casey Bardsley. If anyone knows anything about Casey - please e-mail me..." [E-Mail Updated 26JUL2007 | 11OCT99]

McCLEARN, Michael mccleamf@ix.netcom.com "...I flew on Crew 4 VP-56 from mid 1966 until mid 1968. I made all of those fun deployments ( NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR). I have just found this site and I think that is great. It has been over 30 years now and I can still remember those 10 and 12 hour patrols. We had been out on a 10 hour patrol in the MED and were heading back and ran across a submarine that generated a lot of interest, so we went PLE and tracked him for at least 2 hours. Anyone VP-56 Shipmates remember that?..." [13MAR99]

McGILL, AX Tom oneof7n@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 as an AX from 1974-1978 and VP-30 from 1978-1980. 2 NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployments and 2 to NAS Keflavik, Iceland..." [02AUG2002]

McHANN, John jmcchode@aol.com "...I was in VP-56 From Aug. 1975-Jan 1979 and From Oct. 1980-Jul 1983. Was a great squadron with a bunch of great guys. Still have the name mushroom. Stuck with me all of these years. Got out as AMH2 Flight Engineer. Now live in Millillington Tn. Would like to hear from old friends in VP-56. Lets have a Reunion!..." [10JUN98]

McINTYRE, CAPTAIN John Retired vqplank@columbus.rr.com "...I served with VP-23 (1963-1965), VP-56 (1968-1969) and VW-2A when it became VQ-2 at NAF Port Lyautey, Morocco on September 1, 1955. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 19JAN2016 | 18FEB2000]

McKEE, John mckeejohna@qwest.net "...I was in VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1953 through 1956. Flew as Aviation Electronic Technician (Twidget) on #1 and #2 Boats. Also did stint as Radio Operator for a couple of years. Would love to hear from some of you who served with me back during that time frame..." [08DEC2001 | 06APR2000]

McKEE, AEC Kent LKMCKEE@JUNO.COM "...I served with VP-30 from 1986-1989, VP-56 from 1989-1991 (DECOM), VP-24 from 1991-1993, and back to VP-30 from 1993-1996, BUPERS SDC Dallas, Tx, Commander Patrol and Reconnassaince Force Atlantic, Norfolk, VA. from December 1999 to August 2002, and currently onboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD3) Norfolk, VA as the lone P-3 Bubba. No perdiem here!..." [BIO Updated 01SEP2002 | 05MAY99]

MEADOWS, AO2(AC) David david.meadows@cox.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1962 to 1965 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I flew with Crew 3 and my PPC was LT Bill O'Neil then LCDR Bob O'Shaughnessy. My Plane Captain was ADR1 L. D. Small and then ADJ2 Richard (Dick "ZIG") Zajack. I am looking for Alfred "Al" Pistelli from the power plants shop from those years. We were good Shipmates. I also would like to know if anyone knows where George ("SNID") Dinsmore and Mike ("Hooper") Crane are. It was a great crew and I will always REMEMBER what we stood for in our time of our flying days on P2V7 Neptunes. Our Call sign was "POLLYS BOY 3". Those were great ASW "Dragon" days for all of us..." [16MAR2009]

MEADOWS, AMSC Gerald Retired gmoody9@aol.com "...I served with VP-16 (Plane Captain aboard the P2V-5F and flew with Ed Whitcraft), FE School at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-56 (flew with Bill Baker, Larry Woods, Doug Mitchel and the Wild Bunch), AIMD at NAS Jacksonville, Florida as a FE and VP-23 at NAS Brunswick, Maine and retired in 2002. I loved every minute of it..." [07AUG2012]

MELEADY, Robert L. shugg@bellsouth.net "...I served in VP-56 from 53-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I have lots of fond memories of Breezy Point andthe good old flying boats..." [19JAN98]

"...MELTZER, CAPTAIN Mel...The Washington Post today reports the passing of retired Captain Mel Meltzer on July 6, 2007. Mel died of a heart attack at his home in Pennsylvania after a distinguished career which included duty in the program management of the A-New system which became the basis for the development of the P-3C. He was my Executive Officer in VP-56 during the 1969 Fleet Introduction of the P-3C aircraft and commanded the squadron in 1970. I speak for all of his VP Squadron mates in noting that we miss Mel and will remember him for his contributions to VP Aviation...McINTYRE, CAPTAIN John vqplank@columbus.rr.com..." [25JUL2007]

MENGE, AC James A. "Shorty" ok4takeoff@hotmail.com "...My first duty station in the Navy (after schools) was VP-56 from 79-82. I was a DKSR that started out in Chief Estrada and Ed White's 1st LT washing airplanes, then went to work over at PSD working in Disbursing. I earned the nickname "Shorty" in the squadron, from Gonzo who thought I was too short. I was on the NAS Bermuda 1979 and NAS Sigonella, Sicily 1980-1981 deployments. I left the squadron in 1982 as the squadron left on another deployment. I cross-rated over to AC (Air Traffic Control) in 1982, where I finished my career after 20 years in 11/98, never to be graced with another VP assignment again. I was stationed in NAS Norfolk, Virginia (1982-1987), USS New Orleans (LPH-11) (1987-1990), NAS Kingsville, TX (1990-1995) and finished up at NS Roosevelt Roads, PR (1995-1998). I now work as a civilian Air Traffic Controller, and am the Air Traffic Manager at Forbes Field (FOE) in my hometown of Topeka, KS..." [06DEC2001]

MICHAEL, PNC Carol cmich@hamptonroads.com "...I served with VP-56 and did a deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Bermuda from 1985-1988. This was a very rewarding tour that I served as a PN2. I am still in the Navy and am now a PNC stationed on the carrier George Washington. It's great to be back in the aviation community and look forward to hearing from others who may have been in VP-56!..." [03MAY2001]

MILBURTH, Robert J. Jr. rmilburth@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 (1982-1985) as a IFT (member of the Beartrap crew with Larry Ayers as Nav-com), VP-30 (Instructor and FRAMP), ASWOC NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAMTD NAS Jacksonville, Florida (Instructor) where I left because of injuries sustained from a car accident. I would love to hear from former Shipmates..." [07OCT2010]

MILLER, AMS1 Charles P. Retired MillerC150@AOL.com "...I served with VP-30 from 1960 to 1963 (plank owner). Served in VP-10, NAS Brunswick, Maine 1963 to 1966. Attended F4 Phantom maint school at NAS Miramar and then assigned to NAS Atsugi, Japan until 1970. Attended P-3 Flight Engineer school in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Assigned to VP-24 from 1970 to 1974. Because I was a short timer and VP-24 was deploying I transferred to VP-56 and retired from there. I would like to make a short comment about the outstanding job that VP-30 performs. While in VP-30 it was routine to repack landing gear struts and a daily chore changing tires. After being assinged to operational squadrons I cannot remember repacking a main landing gear strut, maby a nost strut once in a while, and tire changes were very few. I think this says it all for a training outfit..." [E-Mail Updated 26APR2003 | 16FEB2002]

MINER, CWO Randal rlminer@bellsouth.net "...Served in VP-56 from 1979-1981 and again 1984-1987..." [E-Mail Updated 29AUG2001 | 22JUN98]

MITCHELL, LCDR(LDO) Douglas M. (Pooh Bear) Retired poohbearmit@aol.com "...Flight Engineer and CWO/LDO Maintenance Officer. I served as a F/E with VP-56 (1968-1971), VP-45 (1972-1975), VP-30 Instructor (1975-1978), VP-5 (1978-1981), CPW-11 (1981-1983) when I was selected to CWO-2, CPW-2 (1983-1985) got selected for LDO and transferred to VP-22 (1985-1988), VP-30 as MMCO (1988-1991), VP-49 (1991-1994) and retired from CPW-11 on 1 December 1994. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading through the VP-Navy Shipmates summary and would love to hear from past crewmembers and maintenance personnel. Twenty-seven years in the P-3 Navy was definitely the highlight of my Thirty year career!!..." [E-Mail Updated 04APR2018 | 19FEB99]

MITCHELL, LT Ralph L. Retired rmitchell@esc5.net "...I came to NAS Jacksonville, Florida as an AEAA spent my first six years in VP-49 from 1976-1982. Transferred to VP-30 as an AE1. Assigned to VP 30 from 1982-1986. Worked the AE shop, went to Material Control and later end my tour as Maintenance Control Day shift supervisor. Was selected to Chief in 1985 and selected to LDO in 1986. After Officer Indoc in Aug 1986, I was ordered to VP-56 as the Maintenance Control Officer and the Material Control Officer. After the NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment in 1989, I transferred to AIMD NAS Jacksonville, Florida as the Support Equipment Officer. One year later I terminated shore duty for orders to VR-22 in NS Rota, Spain. Two years as the Assistant Maintenance Officer and one year as Department Head, we decommisioned VR-22 in the summer of 1993. My last tour took me to Meridian Mississippi as the Assistant Air operations Officer. For a squadron Maintenance Officer to be able to work at a NAS Base Operations was an enjoyable tour of duty. After 21 years and my selection to LCDR, I retired as a LT. That was a family decision to turn down LCDR and retire. I enjoyed the time that I spent in each duty station and all the good friends that I have remembered. My heart goes out to the families of lost friends and I look forward to hear from those whom with I served..." [11NOV2004]

"...MOFIELD, Sylvester...My Father, Sylvester Mofield, served with VP-56 at NAS Keflavik, Iceland in 1962 (April and May). My Father passed away in 1988. I would like to hear from his former Shipmates. Nathan Mofield natemofield@yahoo.com..." [25FEB2007]

MOORE, Ted tedmoore@supernet.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1969 through 1971. I was a 3rd class machinist mate. I was in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAS Jacksonville, Florida also did one tour of NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Be nice to hear more from you guys..." [30NOV2000]

MORAN, Dick dickjudy@nantucnet.net "...Attached to VP-56 from August 1961 thur 1963 as Jezebel analyst. Det 13 to NAS Keflavik, Iceland in 1962 one of my best tour of duty in my 20 years..." [10FEB2006]

MORGAN, ATR3 Larry S. Circa 1962 morgan220@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-56 from July, 1962 to July, 1964. Most of my flight time was with Crew 11 as 2nd Technician, Radio Operator. Our home base was NAS Norfolk, Virginia with deployments to Key West, Fla. during the Cuban crisis, NS Rota, Spain, and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR..." [E-Mail Updated 26SEP2006 | 29APR2005]

MUCKLE, AMS1 Ronald ronmuckle@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1983-1985) and flew as a FE. I am trying to Locate AD2 Cato, AD2 Hester and AD2 Peoples. We made an emergency landing at an Air Force Base in North or South Carolina in 1985. Engine fire Number 4 engine. One or two of these three was the CDI that came up from Jax to make the repair to get us going. I need to talk with them or any body that remembered the incident. Thanks very much..." [BIO Updated 11FEB2014 | 25SEP2012]

MULLEN, Paul (Moon) moonmull74@aol.com "...Served with VP-55, VP-56, and VP-74 from March'41 to late'42. Would appreciate any correspondence with squadron mates at that time. Also VPB-305, VP-201 same applies, '43 to'45. I would appreciate any information as to whereabouts of Aviation Machinists Mate 2nd Class Bob Stuart..." [13SEP2000]

MULLINAX, ATC John take@yahoo.com "...I served VP-3 (1952-1954, VP-56 (1957-1960) and VP-24 (1964-1967)..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 27NOV2014 | 26DEC2012]

MULLOY, CDR Stephen "Steve" Retired steve.mulloy@outlook.com "...I served in VP-56, VX-1, SDC Dallas, VP-68 and VP-64..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 16DEC2021 | E-Mail Updated 04JAN2009 | 07NOV2001]

MUTI, Richard richardmuti@aol.com "...I served (Pilot) with VP-56 (1966-1969) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland with two NS Rota, Spain (1967/1968)..." [22MAR2013]

MYLLENBECK, AWCS Dwight Retired c/o MYLLENBECK, CDR Rick rmyllenbeck@yahoo.com "...My brother AWCS (Ret.) Dwight Myllenbeck, 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..." [31MAY2005]

---

NAU, John T. jtnau@bellsouth.net "...Aloha to all my fellow BLUE GEESE. Recognized quite a few of the world famous, or at least Gordon Avenue infamous, "Broccoli Marauders". I was In VP-22 from 1972 until 1977. Undoubtably the best command I ever served in. I was an AO and retired as an AOCS with 23 years and a few days. Served in VP-31 from 1970-1972, VP-22 1972-1977, VP-56 1980-1984, VP-30 1984-1987, VP-23 1987-1990, VP-30 1990-1993. This is one great website. Hope to hear from a few of my old friends and maybe even a few enemies..." [E-Mail Updated 13APR2001 | 25MAR98]

NELSON, Chip w4rll@ldl.net "...I served in VP-56 out of BREEZY POINT from 1956 to 1959 Made a MED cruise......and after I left VP-56 went to VP-4 ...NAHA OKINAWA....... ANYONE REMEMBER ME...??..." WebSites: http://www.geocities.com/Nashville/Opry/5735 http://www.ldl.net/~w4rll http://www.qsl.net/w4rll [10DEC98][ICQ #6104097]

NEWBILL, AX2 Tim N. newbill@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-56 from November 1975 to October 1978. AX2 in AIMD shop. Have contacts with Shipmates Brad Rosenow, Wesley Hicks, and David Split-Log..." [E-Mail Updated 24JUL2007 | E-Mail Updated 14NOV2003 | 04AUG99]

NORRIS, Dean NORRIS_DEAN%PAX8B@MR.NAWCAD.NAVY.MIL "...VP-56 FROM 1984-1987; AE; DEPLOYMENTS: NAS Keflavik, Iceland 1984-5, NAS Sigonella, Sicily 1986 NAV AVIATION MAINT OFF (NAMO) NAS Patuxent River, Maryland; 1987-1990 LEFT NAVY 1990; CURRENTLY CIVIL SERVICE WORKING FOR NAVAIR IN NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [21MAY98]

---

OBED, AO3 Terry Sallyzkats@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1962 to 1965. In these pages are both the VP-56 aircraft and crew I was assigned. We called LQ-9 the Flying Spoon after the Plane Comander CDR D. D. Spoon (somewhere I still have my crew hat that he bought for each one of us on the crew I will look I may have a picture that would have the BUNO). The photo looks like it was taken in NS Rota, Spain around late summer 1961. I still have a photo of LQ-5. The picture was taken over the Chesapeak Bay in preperation for the upcoming Good Will Tour to South America for short UNITOS (note the extra markings between the LQ and the BUNO). I was that day in the bow or nose taking photos of LQ-6 (the crew that went with us on the UNITOS tour)..." [12APR2001]

O'CONNOR, AWCS Tom Retired pelicanpines@att.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1965 to 1970, 1981 to 1984 and 1987 till the bitter end. I retired in 1992 as an AWCS. Would love to hear from anyone from the P2 days on up.. Currently living in a small town on the edge of the Ocala National Forest..." [27NOV2003]

OLSCAMP, AWCS (Honorary) Ed (Canadian) edolscamp@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1976-1979) on the Personnel Exchange Program (PEP)..." [E-MAIL/BIO Updated 08OCT2010 | URL Added 09DEC2000 | 08DEC2000]

O'LEARY, Mike moleary@coj.net "...I served with VX-1 (1974-1978), VP-56 (1978-1983), VP-30 (1983-1986), VP-16 (1986-1990), and CPW-11 (1990-1993). It was something that only those who were there could understand. Anyone else would think you a liar..." [01JUN2000]

---

PALKOVICK, CDR Frederick A. II http://navyrotc.mit.edu/www/staff/xo.stm "...Executive Officer - MIT Harvard - Commander Palkovic, a native of Rhode Island, graduated from Cornell University where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering in May 1977. At Cornell, he was commissioned an Ensign, United States Navy through the Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps program. He attended Naval Flight Officer (NFO) training at NAS Pensacola, Florida and Mather Air Force Base, California before earning his wings of gold in March 1979. He then attended initial training in the P-3C Orion aircraft at VP-30, NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Commander Palkovic reported in July 1979 to VP-26, NAS Brunswick, Maine where he served as Educational Services Officer, Readiness Training Officer and NFO Naval Aviation Training and Operations Standardization (NATOPS) Officer. During this tour, he qualified as Instructor NFO, NATOPS evaluator, Tactical Coordinator and Mission Commander in the P-3C aircraft. He deployed to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean in 1980; NS Rota, Spain and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal in 1981; and NAS Keflavik, Iceland and Western Pacific in 1982. He then reported to VP-30, NAS Jacksonville, Florida where he served as NFO Training Officer. In this capacity, he supervised initial and refresher training of NFOs destined for duty with Atlantic Fleet P-3C squadrons. From 1985 to 1987, CDR Palkovic served as Assistant Air Operations Officer, Commander, Carrier Group FIVE, NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. There, he qualified as Flag Tactical Action Officer and Flag Command Duty Officer. He also participated in Operation Earnest Will, the protection of tankers during the Iran-Iraq war in 1987 as a member of Joint Task Force Middle East. He then attended the College of Naval Command and Staff, Naval War College, Newport, RI, earning a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Planning. During this tour, he also attended Salve Regina University, earning a Master of Arts in International Relations. In 1989, he reported to VP-56, NAS Jacksonville, Florida for his department head tour, requalifying as Instructor NFO, Patrol Plane Tactical Coordinator and Mission Commander. He served as Training Officer during the squadron's transition to the P-3C Update III aircraft, then as Administrative Officer and Operations Officer during a six month deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Following this deployment, he assisted with disestablishment of the squadron in 1991. Commander Palkovic reported to Commander, Patrol Wings, US Atlantic Fleet as Tactical Development and Evaluation officer. In this assignment, he oversaw Tactical Development programs for the East Coast P-3 squadrons and coordinated completion of numerous research projects supporting Anti-submarine and Anti-surface warfare. He also assumed the additional duties of Training Officer. From 1993 to 1996, Commander Palkovic served as Chief Staff Officer and Administrative Officer for the staff of CPW-1 and Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO, Kamiseya, Japan. Commander Palkovic served at United States Strategic Command in Omaha, Nebraska from 1996 to 1999 as Chief, War Plans Analysis Branch. He responsible for completion of analyses and studies relating to the effectiveness of United States nuclear war plans and the consequences of use of Weapons of Mass Destruction. He also served as Acting Chief, Force Assessments Division during the absence of the incumbent. Commander Palkovic reported onboard the Naval Reserve Officers Corps Unit, Boston Consortium in August 1999. Commander Palkovic's awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and the Joint Service Achievement Medal..." [17JUN2003]

PARAMORE, AWCS Thomas G. Retired tgparamore40@msn.com"...I served with VP-5 from 1967 to 1971, CPW-11 from 1971 to 1975, VP-56 from 1975 to 1978, CPW-11 from 1978 to 1980, LANTFAST NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1981 to 1983, FASODETJAX from 1984 until retiring in 1988. Retired as AWCS. I worked for General Physics six months before beginning work with Alabama Aviation and Technical College in Ozark, Al. I am an Avionics instructor..." [28DEC2003]

PARKER, Kenneth F. kfsbpark@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (02/1969-07/1972) and VP-24 (09/1975-10/1978). I crewed as a P-3C IFT with over 2500 hours flight time..." [E-Mail Updated 28MAR2014 | 02JAN97]

PARKHURST, AZ3 Eddie parkhursted@att.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1965 to 1968..." [01FEB2010]

PARKS, AWC Bill bill_parks@att.net "...I served with VP-56 (1979-1982) SS1/2, ASWOC NAS Agana, Guam (1982-1984), FASO NAS North Island, San Diego, California (1984-1986) JEZ Instructor, ASWMOD USS Kitty Hawk (1986-1987) and now doing IT work now for a large telecom provider. I would very much enjoy hearing from any old Shipmates..." [05AUG2011]

PASTOR, Hector neteng@jtechsol.com "...Hello, to all the good people that served with me on VP-56 from 1986 until 1991. specially all the AWs. I want to say, it was a great pleasure meeting all of you and those were some of best time of life. I had a great time during deployment and the best time during UNITAS in South America. I bet some of you rememeber those time. By the way, it was a great time seeing some you during the reunion few years ago. Let have another one!!! I want to talk and recap some of those good all times. You guys take care, Hector, the puertorican..." [E-Mail Updated 17AUG2007 | 21JUL2001]

PATTERSON, AW1(AW) Tim Retired tmp0654@bellsouth.net "...I served with Search and Rescue at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (1972-1976), HS-3 (1977-1978) aboard the USS Forrestal (CV-59) in 1978, VP-56 (05/1979-09/1982) flying with CAC-7, Fleet Aviation Specialized Operational (FASO) (11/1982-12/1985) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-24 (12/1985-10/1989) flying with CAC-8 and Fleet Aviation Specialized Operational (FASO) at Naval Station Mayport, FL (10/1989-12/1992). I then retired in December 1992 and residing in the Jacksonville area..." [02OCT2013]

PAYNE, William T. wpayne36@gmail.com "...I served in VP-56 from 1955 to 1961 worked in the Mechanic Shop under Joe Capone. I made the 1956 cruise on the USS Currituck (AV-7). My picture is in the book. Would love to hear from anyone from the squadron. Shipmate AD2 Bill Payne..." [10MAR2010]

"...PELLETIER, Normand Roger...I wanted to let you know that my father PO1 AAM1/C Normand Roger Pelletier passed away this Tuesday, June 8, 1999 of cardiac arrest at his home in Wilmington, NC. He has contributed to your pages many facts concerning the crash of my uncles plane near Iceland during WW2. My father spent much of his early years of service with VP-56, VP-212, VP-201 and patrol bombing squadron VPB-21, and VPB-2. He was very fond of your website and took me to it many times late at night when I would visit with him at his home. My thanks to you for your website as it is a memorial to all who have served in the VPNAVY. My thanks to the Navy and Marine color guard who were also supplied for his beautiful funeral. If you have any additional stories about my father and uncle, Lionel Pelletier, please pass them on. We are composing a scrapbook of facts and stories for both of these gentlemen. Please feel free to write me an email...Roger Lionel Pelletierpelle11@ibm.net..." [12JUN99]

PEOPLES, Rich peeps101@msn.com "...I served with VP-56 from March 1971 to February 1973. I signed on at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and made the move to NAS Jacksonville, Florida that spring. I was a Parachute Rigger and worked at AMD quite a bit but was assigned to the squadron during the deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland from November 1971 to May 1972. I would love to hear from some of you..." [29JUN2004]

PENNACHIO, ABH1 Keneth F. pennachio1078@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 (1974-1978) as Line Crew Supervisor with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Thank you for all you guys have done or will do in the future. You are the reason why this country is still free and will remain so. For the families who have lost a loved one, thank you too. For all the wives who put up our crap and with what we wanted to do, you deserve a medal for so many reasons..." [24APR2020]

PEPE, ATC(AW) Louis LandGPepe@worldnet.att.net "...I served as an AX3, AX2, and left as an AX1. I was there from 1980-1984 and deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily , Bermuda, Rota & NAF Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal. I spent most of my time representing the Dragons TAD to AIMD fixing the ASW gear. We were all a big happy group in Hangar 1000 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, most everybody in one squadron had friends in all the others. My subsequent tours were: MMF-A (Patwing 11), VS-31 (Cecil Field), AIMD (NAS Key West), VS-38 (North Island), and now US Naval Academy (17th Company Senior Enlisted Advisor)..."

PERKINS, Don rooster4@gate.net "...VP-1 '63-'70, VX-1 '70-'74, VP-56 '75-'78, ASW TEST '78-'81, and VP-1 '81-'84. Look forward to hearing from everyone..." [02JAN99]

PETSCHONEK, AWC Raymond W. Retired wg6x@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-30, VP-56 at NAS Moffett Field, California and TSC at NAS Moffett Field, California. I retired from the Navy (09/1975) and now living in Pensacola, FL..." [11NOV2015]

PETTIT, Walt WalterP429@AOL.COM"..HMC Tucson AZ Served @ Naval Hospital, New Port, RI 71-72, VP-56 73-75..."

PIETRASCHKE, AT3 Randall randyp17@fidnet.com "...I served with VP-56 (1982-1985) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida with deployments to NAS Bermuda, NS Rota, Spain and NAS Keflavik, Iceland..." [18NOV2013]

PIOTROWSKI, AWC Dan Retired sandan@bellsouth.net "...I served in VP-56 from 1969-1974 and again from 1977-1981. Flew with so many different people I can't even start to name them all. Interested in hearing from any and all of my old "Shipmates". Had lots of great times (more good than bad anyway)Don't miss the 0 dark 30 preflights.. but miss the patrols (and especially the "postflights")..." [15FEB2001]

PISTILLI, ADR3 Alfred "Al" al@greatlite.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1960-63, from NAS Keflavik, Iceland to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba during the crisis. I am searching for various patches from that era for my military scrap book. I would also like to locate David L. Meadows a Shipmate that I worked and pulled liberty with..." [17APR2007]

PLANK, AWCS Chuck (CW) Retired cwp47@yahoo.com "...Served in VP-6 and VP-56; ASWOC/TSC NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Sigonella, Sicily; CPW-11. Retired in sunny Fla in 92. Have lost contact with almost everyone and would like to hear from any former Shipmates..." [22MAR2005]

POOLE, ADCS Charles Retired mobytruk@yahoo.com "...I served with VA-42 (1991), VP-23, NADC (Warminister) Johnsville, Pennsylvania, VP-24, CPW-11, VP-56 and retired in 1991..." [30JAN2015]

POOLE, Harold cfharold@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1973 to 1974 and VP-67 from 1978 to 1982..." [23MAY2010]

POPE, ADCS Billy J. Retired scporet@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-1 from October 1961 to October 1964 Crew 10 and 8), VP-30 NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1966 (P2V5's for the special program), and VP-56 NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1977 to 1980. I really had some good times..." [BIO Updated 18MAR2003 | 15MAR2003]

PRESSON, AWCM Ray G. "Tex" Retired rgpresson@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (April 1974 to April 1978), Instructor at AWA School (1978 to 1981), USS Enterprise CV-65 (1981 to 1982), USS America CV-66 (1982 to 1984), Dam Neck (1984 to 1989), USS John F. Kennedy CV-67 (1989 to 1992), Dam Neck (1992) and AWA School (1992 to 1993)..." [E-Mail Updated 30NOV2007 | 22DEC98]

PRUTER, Tom tpruter@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1964-1967. We deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland right after I checked in and I remember getting to NAS Keflavik, Iceland to see a bare flight line. Our six aircraft and the 6 from VP-23 were all flying out of Bally-Kelly attempting rain enough sonobouys down on an "Alpha" boat to get him to surface. Slowly, the aircraft would cycle back to get some scheduled maintenance. The pace slowed after that and it was a pretty much a standard deployment. The other 6 aircraft were at NS Rota, Spain (good deal + lots of sunshine). Follow-on deployment during my squadron tour was to NAS Sigonella, Sicily. I checked out and was last ASDO when the entire squadron departed for NS Rota, Spain in 1967 prior to the Israeli 6 day war. A great squadron. The CPO's made up crew 13 and were pretty well qualified. Flew some real missions during ASWEXs. The P2V-7 (SP2H) was a good stable platform. Not too hard to maintain for the metalsmiths, except for building up and changing tires. Does anyone else remember how much fun it was to do drop checks in the old hangar at NAS Sigonella, Sicily? With the tile deck that was about as even as a washboard? Oh, the good ole days! Nice photo of some familar faces from the 2002 Reunion on this site..." [25JAN2003]

---

QUINTALL, AMS3 Doug drquintall@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 from September 1974 to May 1976..." [15APR2011]

---

RAGGHIANTI, Charles F. cfragg@aol.com "...I was in VP-56 from 1992-1995. (AD-2) Team work in the VP community was great! I brought it to the civilian world..." [30JAN98]

RAMOS, AW1(AW) Paul A picaso7617@hotmail.com "...i was stationed in VP-56 (1983-1988) upon entering the navy, and it was the best squadron I've been in during my 17 1/2 yrs in the Navy, after leaving I became an SS-3 instructor in VP-30, then left to do the ASWOC/TSC duties (aircraft dogers) at ASWOC/TSC NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. After sunny PR I came back to Florida assigned to CPW-11, and am now in ASWOC/TSC NAS Keflavik, Iceland, Iceland. I just got orders back to NAS Jacksonville, Florida to VP-16 where I plan to retire after 2 1/2 yrs. Would love to hear from you dragons...Navy's changed alot, but good friends never change...they always stay in touch..." [23JUN2000]

RATH, SAMUEL C. scrath@mc.net "...I WAS IN VP-56 FROM 1970-1974. I WAS THEN SENT TO SHORE DUTY AT VA45 (CECIL). I TRIED TO GET BACK TO "VP'S" BUT FAILED THUS GETTING OUT IN 1976. I WAS ADJ-2 AT VP-56 AND IN TRAINING FOR F/E. IF ANYBODY KNOWS HOW I CAN GET A DRAGON PATCH, I'D BE FOREVER GRATEFUL. VP ARE STILL MY FONDEST MEMORIES. LATER!..." [E-Mail Updated 09NOV98 | E-Mail Updated 26JUL98 | 13JUN98]

REED, AMH3 Charles O. libertycreed@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1967-1969). I served during our transition from the P2 to the P-3. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [05FEB2013]

REED, AL1 Jack jackreedsr@hotmail.com "...I am one of the last 2 survivor's of the VP-56 P5M April 9th, 1955 mishap. I was on the panel when we started the fatal take off. I served with VP-56 from 1952 to 1957 and then transfer'd to VR-24 in NAF Naples, Italy. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [06SEP2009]

REES, Jeff lcdrrees@yahoo.com "...I served (flew the P-3) with VP-56, VP-45, VP-30, VP-8 and VT-27 (T-34 Instructor Pilot and as an A-Strike aboard USS Abraham Lincoln). I left active duty in 2000 for the airlines but was recalled 4 times after 9-11 serving at NORAD, HQ USSOUTHCOM and 4th Fleet. I retired from the Reserves in 2007..." [21JUN2012]

REES, Rick A. rickrar@aol.com "...Hi Shipmates! I served with several commands in the good old USN. Started out with VC-3 (1973), VF-124 Gunfighters & VF-2 Bounty Hunters (1974-1975), VP-31 (FE School in 1975), VP-56 (1976-1981), VP-30 (1982-1986), VP-5 (1986-1990), NAMO NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (1990-1994), and finally HSL-42 Proud Warriors Mayport (1994-1998). Retired as an ADCS from HSL-42 in August 1998. I currently work for a contractor at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (ACS Government Solutions Group Inc) doing computer work. My P-3 days in the Navy were some of the best times of my life. Will always have fond memories of the good times, not the bad ones! Would love to hear from any old Shipmates from those days. Aloha!..." [06FEB99]

REYNOLDS, ATCS Larry L. Retired larryleereynolds@gmail.com "...I served with Naval Alcohol Rehabilitation Center (NAVALREHCEN) (1976-1978) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee AX/AT "A" Schools, VP-10 (1982-1985) at NAS Brunswick, Maine with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NAS Bermuda and NS Rota, Spain, VP-30 (1985-1990) Avionics Shop Supervisor, Maintenance Control Coordinator, VP-56 (1985-1990) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida (IFT, Maintenance Control Coordinator and Special Projects) with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Bermuda. Best Chief's Mess in the Navy - Dusty Rhodes, Notso Quick, Mark VanReken, Bob Yearty, Frank Howard, Doug Evans, etc. Best team of go-getters I've ever seen. My final destination was NAVALREHCEN (1990-1994) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida as a Counselor. I retired January 1994..." [E-Mail Updated 01FEB2017 | E-Mail Updated 24NOV2009 | E-Mail Updated 24JAN2003 | 16MAY2001]

RHOADS, ADCS James "Dusty" Retired jrhoads@dscr.dla.mil"...I retired from the Navy while attached to VP-56 in 1988. I had a lot of good friends, Bob Yearty, Mark Van Reken, etc. I thought this was the best tour of duty I ever had while I was in the VPNavy. In VP-56 I flew as a FLight Engineer and was the Maintenance Control Supervisor for approximately two years. It seems that no matter what we were tasked with we always got the job done and that was because of the quality of the people we had in the squadron..." [22MAR2001]

RICH, NC1(NAC) Kevin nc1rich@hotmail.com "...I started life as AW (non- acoustic, I was the one who didn't sleep) with VP-26 from 1983-1985, then transfered to VP-56. I finished my first hitch and go out. Joined VP-90 in NAS Glenview, Illinois from 1988 to 1989 and then I recalled to recruit for the Reserves in 1989 and have been at it ever since. I was with VP-26 when we deployed to NAS Bermuda, then NAF Naha, Okinawa, Japan, (we came back the long way around Saudi/ NS Rota, Spain). I made the NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment in 86 when we hit Libya. Drop me a line..." [13MAR2001]

RICHEY, AO3 James W. immouse2002@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 from January 1966 to April 1969, ordnanceman on LQ-5, good memories from NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAS Norfolk, Virginia, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, P2's and P-3's the only way to fly. Just a few names that I recall- CPO Crockett, CPO Perdue, Cosolino, AO-2 Sheldon. He had more time in rank then any other 2nd class in the Navy. He made AO-1 finally before I left the squadron in 1969..." [24FEB2006]

RIGGS, AD2 Olin D. odwriggs@att.net "...I served with VP-56 from August 1955 thru August 1957 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Flew on 6 boat with H. K. Benson. Made the med cruise in 1956 with USS Currick and the Alameda County, a converted LST. Had some wild times on that cruise. Promoted to PC of 2 boat (P5M2, replacing cahill AD2). A bunch of wonderful people and experts in their field. Sure enjoyed my sea duty on P5M2's I flew on..." [E-Mail Updated 12JUN2001 | 23DEC2000]

ROBERTS, Dave fddrob5@cs.com "...Was attached to VP-56 fro 1955 to 1956. I was a Photgrapher and since no facility at the hanger, I was sent TAD to NAS Norfolk, Virginia photo lab. I did make the Med. cruise on the USS Currituck (AV-7) with the squadron. While on the cruise, I was involved in making the cruise book. After my duty at VP-56, I was assigned at NAS Norfolk, Virginia for shore duty..." [12JAN2001]

ROBERTS, AWC GEORGE A nannar@gate.net "...Shipmates - I was in VP-56 71-75, ASWOC 75-77, NAS Keflavik, Iceland 77-81, and NS Rota, Spain 81-84. I'm looking for old shipmates. Doug Clark where are you?..." [E-Mail Updated 26MAY2001 | 30NOV97]

ROBINSON, ATN3 Jim "Robbie" rrobinson128@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1966 to 1968 (NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland). I was the Radio Operator with Crew-11. I served (my best memory) with LCDR William Beebe, LT(jg) Whetsil, LT Ward, George Crow, Ken Loften, Danny Galiakis, Charlie Weaver, PC Patton and Dennis Avery. Would encourage any crew mwmbers to contact me..." [04JUN2006]

ROBINSON, Tyler tychaser@adelphia.net "...I served with VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1973 to 1976. Flew with some great guys on Crew 9 as Nav, and on Crew 4 as TC. Recently made contact with some old VP friends and would appreciate hearing from some others..." [27NOV2002]

ROCKLEIN, Tim timrocklein@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 (1972-1975). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [09NOV2014]

ROE, Marianne "Bell" MROE287257@aol.com "...I was in VP-56 from June 1985 - September 1989. I was an Aviation Storekeeper. I am presently stationed at Andrew's Air Force Base and have been considering making an attempt to have a VP-56 Reunion sometime in the Year 2000 or perhaps 2001 (ten years after decom). I'd like to see how many interested personnel there are and the demographics of those involved. Please e-mail me and let me know where you are and what you are doing and if you know anyone else who served in the squadron during those times. Look forward to hearing from you!..." [03NOV99]

ROLLINS, AX2 Alan C. arollins@bae-inc.com "...I was with VP-56, NAS Norfolk, Virginia, from early 1964 through mid 1967, AXAN to AX2. Primarily with Crew-5 "Animals" as Bow observer / MAD. Let me tell you that you guys back in the tube missed out on some fantastic views! Last few months with VP-56 was on Night-Check. It was always a toss up as to whether we would beat Day-Check out the gate before 16:30 or if we were still on the ramp working when Day-Check came back in the next morning! Really great duty whether flying or ground-pounding. Posted to VP-23, NAS Brunswick, Maine, after AVI-B NAS Memphis, Tennessee. Flew with Crew-1 for NAS Sigonella, Sicily 1968 deployment, then opted to do AIMD bench support for the NAS Sigonella, Sicily 1969 deployment. After three Summers in NAS Sigonella, Sicily over four years, I finally decided that Malta was a heck of a better place to get to for those rare times off. I have been fortunate enough to have contact with some former crewmates and ould be glad to hear from any Neptune riders from either of those VP eras..." [03MAY2002]

ROMINGER, AO2 Charles K. kenrominger@netzero.net "...I served with VP-56 NAS Norfolk, Virginia from March l959 to June l960. I was an AO2 in flight status. Would enjoy hearing from any of my old Shipmates. I also served at NS Roosevelt Roads, PR from March l957 to March l959. Would also like to hear from anyone serving at the same time. I was station personel assigned to the Ordnance Division..." [02JUL2002]

RYAN, VICE ADMIRAL Norbert R. Retired "...Reported to the VP-5 Mad Foxes December 1981 as Executive Officer and assumed command in December 1982...Rear Admiral, Commander, Patrol Wings Pacific...A native of Mountain Home, Pennsylvania, Rear Admiral Norbert R. Ryan, Jr., graduated from the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned an Ensign in June 1967. He began flight training in August 1967 and was designated a naval aviator in October 1968. Assigned to VP-8 from 1969 to 1972, Rear Admiral Ryan participated in three Atlantic Deployments as well as several detachments to the Mediterranean and Pacific in support of special operations. Rear Admiral Ryan was assigned to the Officer of the Commandant of Midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy from 1972 to 1975. During this tour, he received a Master of Science Degree in Personnel Management from the George Washington University in Washington, DC. He reported to Commander, Carrier Group SIX in September 1975, serving as Flag Secretary and aide while the staff was embarked on six different carriers for deployments, exercises and carrier workups. In October 1977, he was ordered to VP-30 where he was a familiarization stage instructor pilot and served as Assistant Training Officer and Administrative Officer until he reported to VP-56 in October 1979. Rear Admiral Ryan held the Safety and Maintenance Department billets with the squadron during deployments to the Atlantic and Mediterranean. In December 1981, he reported to VP-5 as Executive Officer and assumed command in December 1982. The squadron completed deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, Azores. In April 1984, Rear Admiral Ryan was assigned to CPW-11 as Operation Officer and in August 1985, he reported to Commander, Patrol Wings Atlantic as the Force Operations Officer. On 1 August 1986, Rear Admiral Ryan became Deputy Executive Assistant/Aide to the Chief of Naval Operations, serving until 23 December 1988. En route to COMPATWING TWO, he attended the Senior Officials in National Security Program at Harvard university's John F. Kennedy School of Government. In June 1989, Rear Admiral Ryan became Commander, CPW-2 in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. In February 1991, he reported for duties as Executive Assistant to Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff where he served until July 1993. Rear Admiral Ryan served as the Assistant Chief of Naval Personnel for Total Force Programming and Manpower (Pers-5); and as the Director, Total Force Programming and Manpower Division (N12) on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations from September to November 1993. From November 1993 to June 1995, he served as Assistant Chief of Naval Personnel for Distribution (Pers-4), the Navy's "Head Detailer." Rear Admiral Ryan assumed duties as Commander, Patrol Wings, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Commander, Anti-Submarine Warfare Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet on 2 August 1995. Rear Admiral Ryan is authorized to wear the Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit with two Gold Stars; Meritorious Service Medal with two Gold Stars; the Navy Commendation Medal with one Gold Star; Navy Achievement Medal with one Gold Star; the Joint Meritorious Unit Award; and a number of other service awards..." http://www.cpf.navy.mil/ctf12bio.htm

---

SANDLEBEN, DANA A. ...circa 1966 ...circa 1968 dasme@comcast.net "...I WAS IN VP-56 66-69 AT NAS Norfolk, Virginia AND NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. MY RATE WHEN I WAS DISCHARGED WAS ATR2(AC) AND SAT IN RADIO, RADAR, AND ORDINANCE. I WAS THE FIRST (THAT I KNOW OF) TO GET AIRCREW WINGS AS AN AIRMAN(E-3). I HAD ALL MY QUALS COMPLETED AFTER THE SQUADRON TOUR IN NAS Sigonella, Sicily...." [E-Mail Updated 01MAR2002 | 27DEC97]

SCHELL, Norman Lee schell@allamerican.com "...I served with VP-56 out of NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1985 thru 1987. We deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Bermuda..." [11DEC2005]

SCHNECK, Gary P2driver@AOL.com "...Joined VP-56 in 1965 thru 1968. The last of the P-2 drivers, before the relocation to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Served under John X. Miller, Brozena, Thummel, and Ralph Touch with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain, and the Island of Crete. Flew with Lcdr Bob "Zoo-Be_doo_be_doo" Davis. Looking for some of the old Crete gang -crew 4..." [27JAN98]

SCHNEELOCH, Paul M. pschnee@triad.rr.com "...I was a PBM pilot in VP-212/VPB-212 from 1943 to 1945 and later recalled in 1952/53 in VP-56 flying PBM-5 and later transitioned to P5M-1 I also operated from the USS Thrush in Surinam the Dutch West Indies during WWII. Prior to the USS Thrush the USS Pelican was there. The USS Currituck (AV-7) was among my experiences during "Operation Springboard" in 1953. I am also a member of the " Mariner/Marlin Association " association which is a very large group of P-Boat people..." [19JUN2001]

SCHWEITZER, Jerry jschweitzer1@nc.rr.com "...I was in VP-56 from 1968 to 1971. I was on Crew 11 (Ryan's Rats). We made the last deployment with the P2s to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and then moved the squadron to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I was the old P2s on a History Channel show on the Scorpion, and lo and behold, I remembered, we were the duty crew that night, and got launched. Anybody rememeber the "Brandywine" message?..." [11AUG2006]

SCOTT, Thomas wyateerp1@aol.com "...Millington Tenn. to VP-30 then on to VP-56, Aug. 1976-Dec.1980. Any body out there that was in the Dragon's those years please feel free to e-mail me, Thank's..." [02SEP2000]

SCRAM, Russell russsatmgoblue@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia (1962-1964) with a deployment to NAS Key West, Florida (1963), VR-1 (1964-1965) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and aboard the USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) (1965-1966) at NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 20AUG2013 | 25JUN2009]

SENSAT, AVCM Eddie H. Retired eddie.sensat@netscape.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1975 to 1978, ASWOC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal from 1978 to 1980, ASWOC NS Rota, Spain from 1980 to 1983, NADC (Warminister) Johnsville, Pennsylvania from 1983 to 1986, VP-23 from 1986 to 1989 and NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee as an AVCM where I retired after 23 years. I am currently living in Mexico and would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 16JAN2010 | E-Mail Updated 28MAR2007 | 30SEP99]

SEXTON, Robert "Bob" pegasus644@aol.com "...I served with VP-8 at NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island from 1956 to 1957, VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1960 to 1962, VX-6 at NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island from 1966 to 1968 and VP-11 from 1974 to 1976..." [28JAN2010]

SHEALEY, C. W. "Dub" cwshealey1@juno.com "...Retired in 1962 as ATC. Ex RM, ARM, ART, ATC, Ham Radio Call NY4B. I served in VP-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Banana River, Florida (41,42); changed from ARM to ART in ; NATTC Ward Island, Corpus Christi, Tx in 1946; served in VP-74 in Panama; VP-34 in NAS Trinidad, British West Indies; VP-56 (P5M) in NAS Norfolk, Virginia; VRF-31 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia; VS-24, 26, and 27..." [19JAN98]

SHERWOOD, John R. jsherwood@carolina.rr.com "...VP-56 from Feb. 1969 - Nov. 1971; Mel Meltzer's and Mike Korbet's crew; Navigation and Line Division Officer. VP-62 from June 1972 - Nov. 1981; Bob Crocci's, Jerry Lang's and my own crew. Retired as CDR in 1989 from MARDEZLANT, Charleston, SC. Would enjoy hearing from shipmates. Remain in contact with several from VP-62 and VP-56..." [E-Mail Updated 05APR2000 | 05APR99]

SHEW, Bobby L. blshew@cox.net "...I served with VP-28 (1957-1959), "A" School at NAS Memphis, Tennessee, NAS Miramar, California, VP-2 (1962-1966), VP-30 FE (1965-1970), VP-56 as NATOPS FE and retired December 1970. My brother, PR3 Willie Shew, passed away in 2006. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 16APR2012 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 29NOV99 | 13DEC97]

SIDLEY, Bernie (Bear) BernieBear00@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1963-1966 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia..." [21MAR2001]

SIEGFRIED, Hank handsomedudesc@yahoo.com "...I served with ZW-1 and VP-56 (1956-1961). Awarded aircrew wings while flying many hours in ZPG-2 and ZPG-3 airships as Radioman and Electronics Tech..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 09FEB2013 | 04FEB2007]

SIFFORD, Jerry L. JSIF98@AOL.COM "...I was in VP-56 in 1958. By buddy Steve Dolton was in VP-44 at the same time. I enjoyed your site very much. I flew for 2 and 1/2 years..." [15AUG2000]

SINGLETON, LCDR "J" Arthur https://naval-air.org/flightlog/moreinfo.asp?UID=536 "...LCDR "J" Arthur Singleton, USN - NFL Number: 536 - Date of Birth: 10/2/1925 - Date In: 6/1/1943 - Date Out: 8/1/1974 - City, State: Palmyra, VA - School Attended: Old Dominion Univ - Aircraft Flown: PBY, PB4Y, C-54, AF, S2 - Ship or Unit: VPB-102 1/1/1945, VP-56 1/1/1962 and USS F.D. Roosevelt 1/1/1970 - Pilot Desg.: Combat Aircrew - Theaters, Campaigns, etc.: Atl,Iwo Jima, Cuba - Associations/Service Organizations: Ret. Officers Assn - Disabled Amer. Vets - Highest personal decoration or award: Dist. Flying Cross - Significant Achievements: As a crewman, flight time 1,456 hours. Arrested landings 18. Political Science high school Prof (14 years). In Memoriam? No..." [11DEC2005]

SITARSKI, CDR Chuck http://www.cpw5.navy.mil/vp10/co_bio.htm "...Commander Chuck Sitarski graduated from the Naval Academy with the Class of 1983. Prior to reporting to Flight School, he was assigned to CTG 168.4 in Munich, Germany as a German language translator. CDR Sitarski earned his wings in May of 1985 and reported to VP-56 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. In 1989, he commenced a tour at the VP-30 "Pro's Nest" and then reported to Commander, US Naval Forces Central Command in Manama, NSA Bahrain aboard the Flagship USS LaSalle (AGF-3) for duty as the Flag Secretary. After two years as the CPW-11 Safety/NATOPS Officer, he reported to VP-5 in 1995. In July, 1997, CDR Sitarski reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Arlington, VA where he served on the PERS-83 Staff. He then reported to the U.S. European Command in Stuttgart, Germany where he was assigned to the Operations Directorate as Command Director and as Head OPS Branch Air Cell until December, 2000. He is currently Commanding Officer VP-10. He has flown over 3300 hours in the P-3 and his awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal and Navy Commendation Medal (four)..." [20JUN2003]

SJOSTROM, Ric FSjostrom@pclient.ml.com "...I served with VP-56 from Spring '87 to late summer of '90. Was a NFO...followed that with a shore tour at COMPATWING 2 in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii...was there from fall of '90 to fall of '93...great memories of the people and flying!..." WebSite: http://fc.ml.com/Ric_Sjostrom [02APR2002]

SAFFRAN, Glenn GlennJr@AOL.com "...Served VP-56 1982 through 1986 with tours to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and NAS Sigonella, Sicily as an AD5. What a Party!..." [01APR98]

SANFORD, LCDR Roger Retired Ldo4Cno2@aol.com "...I reported to VP-56 in June 1970 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as an AMS3, deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland that winter. After deployment made the move to NAS Jacksonville, Florida. In Nov 1971, I reenlisted for orders to VQ-2 NS Rota, Spain (1/72-1/76) where I met probably 2 of the craziest people I would meet in my career (Ed Berube and Bob DelGuidiese). Then to AIMD Key West (4/76-4/79). Next VAQ-33 NAS Norfolk, Virginia where I was iniatiated to AMSC (6/79-4/80). AIMD Oceana (4/80-5/82)as an LDO. Next VAW-126 (6/82-7/85). Back to AIMD Key West (8/85-3/88), VS-28 (3/88-4/91). AIMD Mayport (4/91-1/94). CHSLWL Mayport (1/94-8/97) where I retired. Still in Jax. Name is in phone book. Would love to hear from old squadronmates and Shipmates..." [22JUN98]

SEIDEL, Jim SEIDELNAVY@aol.com "...Currently Commanding Officer of the Naval Air Reserve ASW Training Center at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. As a TAR Served on: CNARF staff New Orleans, Officer in Charge of VP-64 NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, VP-68 NAF Wash. DC and VP-SAU Program Manager NAF Wash. DC. Active duty included VP-30 (1984-86) and VP-56 (1981-84). Please drop me a line anytime!..." [17JUN98]

SHORT, Herb hshort@maine.rr.com "...I served with VP-30, NAS North Island, San Diego, California, attended schools in NAS Millington, Tennessee and later joined VP-56 in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (1968 through 1970) as an ASW aircrewman. I was assigned to Crew 6 ("Crew Grit"). We were the first squadron to receive the P-3C Orion with the Honeywell computer system. I remember weeks and weeks of classroom training on the new equipment. I was involved in deployments to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAS Keflavik, Iceland and even got a trip to Stavanga, Norway. Only accumulated 700 flight hours but I enjoyed every minute of them. Took an early discharge and was temporarily attached to VP-31 when VP-56 deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland..." [BIO Updated 22MAR2010 | E-Mail Updated 19MAR2010 | 10APR2003]

SMITH, James W. "JW" c/o Ray Bliss AW2 Retired TFBNCC@aol.com "...The passing of a shipmate. AWC (ret) James W. Smith "JW", suffered a heart attack and died on the morning of 11 Feb 1998. Jim Smith was my friend and shipmate for 23 years, he will be very sorely missed. Jim had a varied career starting as a storekeeper stationed in Vietnam. His professional career as an AW saw him attached to VP-56, VP-30, VP-5, HS-1, HS-11 until his retirement in 1989 I believe..." [12FEB98]

SMITH, James L. (Jim) Circa 1973-1974 james11@home.com "...VP-56 1972 to 1974 Jim ("J.L") Smith AW2 - SS2 on Crew 8 and SS1 on Crew 12. Hello to all of my friends. Would love to hear from you..." [21MAY98]

SMITH, AMS3 Teresa Ann sixdropsinarow@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 (1987-1990) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. I'm still running amok in the civilian world, - was wondering if any of my paintings of our VP-56 Dragon on the Barrack's common walls have still managed to survive...(not holding my breath-but would be cool if anyone still had a pic of it)..." [01DEC2012]

SMITH, AO1 TOMMY D. TdonSmith@AOL.COM "...I was in VP-56 from 73-78 on Crew 3. I retired in OCT 82. I'm having a ball now racing a stock car. Send mail!..." [29MAY99]

SOUTHARD, ATR3 Larry O. los0116@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (1970) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland with a deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [03MAR2017]

St. GERMAIN, CDR Bob Retired rstgermain@houston.rr.com "...I served with served with VP-56 from 1975-1978 (deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland 1975-76) and VP-93 from 1979-1980 (deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily 1976-77)..." [30NOV2002]

STARKE, AT2 Stephen steve@firstcoastland.net "...I served with VP-56 (1985-1989) in the Avonics Shop with deployments to NAS Bermuda and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Made many friends and still stay in contact with several members of the squadron..." [25DEC2010]

STEELY, James (Jim) jim_steely@yahoo.com "...I was assigned to VP-56 from 1972-1975. I worked in operations, power plants, and the LINE. I got out in 1975 and reenlisted in 79, went to MM rating. I had some good times and bad during those early years but met a lot of good people in the VP community. If anyone remembers me you can reach me at my e-mail..." [15JAN2005]

STELTER, LT Michaelmcs6604@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1980-1983) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida as a AW2 (SS-3) on Crew-10..." [11DEC2010]

"...STETZ, CDR Elias "Al" Joseph...Just learned of the passing of CDR Al Stetz last month (July 19, 2014) on Long Island, NY. Al and I were nuggets together in VQ-2 in the NAF Port Lyautey, Morocco days (1955-1958). Al went on to VX-6 where he was the pilot of the P2 involved in the November 9th, 1961 mishap at Wilkes Station, Antarctica. Al and I were again together in VP-56 (1968-1969) where Al was my Maintenance Officer for the Fleet Introduction of the P-3C at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. We were best buds for many years and he’ll be missed by many old timers..." Contributed by McINTYRE, CAPTAIN John vqplank@columbus.rr.com [21AUG2014]

STILLER, LT Paul F. stillip2@nc.rr.com "...I served with VP-56 from January 1960 to July 1963 with deployments to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAS Key West, Florida, NS Rota, Spain and NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in 1962..." [28APR2011]

STINESPRING, Winfred "Winnie" winstin@bellsouth.net "...Hey Shipmates. I would love to hear from you guys. I'm now retired in Jacksonville, Florida. I served with VP-1, VP-30, VP-56, VP-45, VP-30, VP-5 and retired out of Sea Control Wing. I went back to school and completed a Masters Degree. Lets hear from you guys..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 02JUL2007 | 30AUG98]

"...STONECIPHER, CAPTAIN E. Thomas... (CO VP-56 - Circa 1950)...I regret to inform his old squadron mates of the passing of my father, CAPTAIN E. Thomas Stonecipher Retired, 83, on December 3, 2003, in San Antonio, TX. Dad entered the Navy in 1940 and was commissioned in March 1941. He served as a black shoe officer aboard the USS Altair in the Pacific and Caribbean, attended flight school in 1943 at NAS Dallas, Texas and NAS Pensacola, Florida, and served the rest of the war flying PBM Mariners with VP-215 and VP-204 in the Caribbean and Atlantic. Post-war he served with the Atlantic fleet aviation training unit, with VP-49, and was Commanding Officer of VP-56 in 1955 when it earned the Navy "E." In those later years he was flying P5M Marlins. For most of the rest of his naval career he was in the nuclear weapons program in landlocked New Mexico and Germany, so had to grab what flight time he could get with the Air Force or Army -- and he always marveled at how comparatively easy land planes were to fly and operate! After retiring from the Navy in 1965, he went on to a great second career in youth training programs, but always looked back with profound satisfaction to his years with the patrol squadron Navy. A final farewell and "bravo zulu" to all VP'ers from Tom Stonecipher...Charles Stonecipher stonecipherca@yahoo.com [PIX Added 16JAN2004 | 23DEC2003]

STONESIFER, Ric Retired ricstonesifer@comcast.net "...I served with VX-1 from 1971-1974, VP-56 from 1974-1977, FASO Det NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1977-1980, VP-66 from 1980-1985, the notorious VTU from 1985-1988, CMSRF 6th Fleet from 1988-1991, and back to pergatory, ooops, I mean VTU-9393. Retired October 1996. Squadron mates where are you? Send me a comm check! S4JG de ????..." WebSite: http://rstonesifer.com/kris [E-Mail Updated 09DEC2002 | 23MAR98]

STRANGE, CPO Jesse C. Retired c/o His Son Steven D. Strange lancelot@rockymountnc.com "...My father, Jesse C. Strange served with VP-56 Crew 8 on the USS Currituck (AV-7) on its Mediterranean cruise August-December 1956. I would greatly enjoy conversing with anyone who might have served on this cruise and/or might have additional information. My father retired with the rank of Chief Petty Officer in 1960. Thanks..." [19JAN2001]

STRUBE, AMH2 Tim kodiak@maqs.net "...I served with VP-56 (1969-1972). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [10MAR2016]

STUDEBAKER, William (Bill) william.e.studebaker@lmco.com "...I was in VP-56 from '67-70. Served as P-2 P/C and P-3 F/E on crew 11. Pat Ryan was PPC. Hired by Lockheed in '74 and have been there ever since, supporting all P-3 aircraft..." [12MAR98]

SWINK, Gregory greg022754@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-56 (FE) from 1980 to 1989 and I served with VP-16 (FE) from 1989 to 1993..." [30JAN2010]

SYMONS, Larry l_symons@yahoo.com "...I was in VP-30 (1961-64) and in VP-56 (1965-68). I served on both P5M's and P2V's. VP'ing it was the only way to go as long as it was the piston engine A/C. I have memories of one flight in VP-56 that was 16.2 hrs long. I liked being able to open the after station hatches and let the air come in. We have a P2V on display at K-Bay now since NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii is closed..." [01NOV2000]

---

"...TAULBEE, LCDR William H...(VP-16, VP-30 and VP-56) William H. Taulbee, 83, of Hanover, beloved husband of Willodene Taulbee, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Carroll Hospital Center in Westminster, MD. Born on March 12, 1929 in Mary, KY, he was one of twelve children born to Luther M. and Leona F. Lawson Taulbee. He was preceded in death by three brothers and six sisters as well as a daughter, Brenda Marie Taulbee and a granddaughter, Maggie Elizabeth Taulbee. He retired from the United States Navy as a Lieutenant Commander, having served for 23 years. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Following his retirement, he worked for Rest Haven Cemetery. Active in the church, he was a deacon in the Baptist Church for twenty years and taught Sunday School for many years and currently held his membership at Crosswind Church of God in Westminster. In addition to his wife of 61 years, he is survived by their children, Darlene K. McClenny and her husband, Donald of UT, Stanley L. Taulbee and his wife, Tricia of MO and William A. Taulbee and his wife, Joyce of Westminster; 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Ada Ruth Mackey and her husband, Doug of Lexington, KY and Bonnie Marcopolus of Virginia and many nieces and nephews. The funeral will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at Panebaker Funeral Home, Inc., 311 Broadway, Hanover with The Rev. David Sulcer officiating. Burial will follow in Rest Haven Cemetery. The family will receive friends at viewings from 5 to 7 pm Thursday and Friday evenings at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. WebSite: http://www.panebakerfuneralhome.com/..." Contributed by Stan Taulbee stantaulbee@yahoo.com [07AUG2012]

TAULBEE, LCDR William H. Retired willtau@yahoo.com "...Of all the patrol aircraft I am familiar with, I think the old faithful P2 takes it all when it comes to ditching at sea. This I can attest to as during my training time with Patrol Squadron and specifically January 22, 1962, I was one of twelve personnel who were aboard when we experienced an uncontrollable fire and were forced to ditch approximately 20 miles off the coast at Jacksonville, Fla. Believe it or not, not one person was seriously injured, but I cannot say that no one was scared stiff. Thanks to the professional attitude of our Instructor PPC, calm was maintained throughout the entire procedure. After a tour in VP-16, where I transitioned to the P-3, I served a full tour with VP-30 as an instructor and finally made the first P-3C deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland with VP-56. VP-56 Commanding Officer, CDR. Meltzer was my crew PPC and had done a tremendous amount of work in the development of the P-3C. I retired from service January 1, 1971..." [14MAY99]

TEETZ, LCDR Bill Retired teetz.bill@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as an AX3 (1964 to 1965), VP-56 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAS Jacksonville, Florida (October 1969 to October 1972), NAVFAC Barbados (November 1972 to March 1975) and VP-24 NAS Jacksonville, Florida (May 1977 to April 1980). I retired in 1984..." [E-Mail Updated 12DEC2005 | 17JUN98]

THOMAS, Bob muhjellan@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-56 on Crew 4 as an SS-3 from 1976 through 1979. It is great to see so many names from the past. I'm looking forward to getting back in touch..." [23OCT2000]

THOMPSON, AXCS Fred Retired fthompsom0944@embarqmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (AX) from 1964 to 1969 (Crew-6 - LQ-6 BUNO: 141235 and also 145915), VP-30 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1969 to 1971 (P-3A, P-3B and P-3C Technician) and VP-45 from 1977 to 1980 as a IFT and was the Avionics Division Chief. In between some of the VP tours I was at TSC NAS Sigonella, Sicily, TSC NAS Brunswick, Maine and ASWOC NAS Jacksonville, Florida. I retired in December of 1981. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 10JAN2010 | E-Mail Updated 06MAR2005 | 14JAN99]

THOMPSON, Roger rthomp@centurytel.net "...I served with VP-56 from 1967-71. From P2's to P3C's, Navy's first operational P3C squadron. Would like to hear from anyone from that time..." [E-Mail Updated 10AUG2002 | 19SEP97]

THRAILKILL, ATC(NAC/DV/AW) Brett W. "Killer" thrailkillj@ymail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1980-1984), VP-50 (1985 to 1989) at NAS Moffett Field, California with deployments to NSF Diego Garcia twice and NAF Misawa, Japan / NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, NAMTRADET 1012 (1989-1992) at NAS Moffett Field, California (1989-1992) Instructor Duty, VP-1 (1992-1996) at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and NAS Whidbey Island, Washington with deployments to NSF Diego Garcia and NAF Misawa, Japan, TSC/ASWOC (1996-1999) at NS Rota, Spain, Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC) in Northern Italy 1998, Bosnia (1997-1999), VP-4 at MCBH Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii with deployments to NAF Misawa, Japan and Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit One at Hickam AFB as the Equal Opportunity Advisor. Like an idiot, I talked the command into letting me attend Dive school. 7 out of 14 graduated. I am proud to claim the title of "Naval Diviator." I retired on the fantail of the USS Missouri (BB-63 on 25 AUG 2006. I have since moved to Texas and work as an Electronics Technician on oil rigs overseas. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 04OCT2013 | BIO Updated 31JUL2007 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 10JUN2004 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 27NOV99 | 23OCT97]

TINES, Gayle 1pgtines@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1956-1958) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I flew with Crew-2. John Scahill was the Plane Captain..." [23APR2021]

TROCKMAN, Mitch mitch.trockman@comcast.net "...I served with VP-56 (1965-1966) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia..." [E-Mail Updated 15JAN2011 | 07SEP2009]

TUCKER, AX1 Thomas E. Retired tophat9068@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-42 (1962-1965) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California, NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam (1967-1968) and VP-56 (twice). I retired while serving with VP-56 in June 1975. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 24MAR2014 | E-Mail Updated 23OCT2003 | 18NOV97]

TUTTELL, LCDR Robert Joseph https://naval-air.org/flightlog/moreinfo.asp?UID=2659 "...LCDR Robert Joseph Tuttell, USN - NFL Number: 2659 - Date of Birth: 6/8/1954 - Date In: 4/24/1976 - Date Out: 9/1/1994 - City, State: Gulf Breeze, FL - School Attended: Jacksonville Univ./Navy Postgraduate - Aircraft Flown: P-3C, LC-130, T-34C, EP-3J, T-28 - Ship or Unit: VP-5, VXE-6, VAQ-33, VP-56 and VT-6. Pilot Desg.: Naval Aviator - Theaters, Campaigns, etc.: Persian Gulf/Cold War - Associations/Service Organizations: TROA - NAMF - Significant Achievements: 5000 + flight hrs. Instructor in P-3, LC-130 and T34-C. Helped design EP-3J. 2 NASA (Technical Merit Awards) TCAS II). Commercial pilot license. In Memoriam? No..." [29NOV2005]

TWISDALE, PO3 L. H. "Burt" ltwisdale44@gmail.com "...I was with VP-56 (1963-1965) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia reporting to LT PULLEN. I would like any information on upcoming Reunions..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 21JUL2019 | 01JUL2007]

---

"...VanREKEN, AVCM Mark H...Mark H. VanReken, 53, of Lexington Park died July 26, 2006, in San Diego after a courageous battle with cancer. A retired master chief with 21 years of service in the U.S. Navy (VP-23, VP-26, VP-56 and VPU-1), he continued to serve his country as a defense department employee at NAVAIR at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Many of the family's closest friends came from his time in uniform. He took great pride in his career. His dedication was such that he continued to work a nearly full schedule as he fought the disease that ultimately cost him his life. An active church member, he enjoyed singing in the choir, playing church league softball and served in several church leadership positions over the years. He was a devoted Christian to his last days, and believed completely in God's purpose for him. He also served the community for many years as a Little League baseball coach and as a supporter of many programs at Great Mills High School. He had a special love and respect for life. He enjoyed outdoor activities, travel by RV, Red Sox baseball, country music, sharing his home with family and friends and eating ice cream. He is survived by Kris (DeJong), his wife of 33 years; three children with their spouses, Tim VanReken and Serena Chung of Longmont, Colo., Mike VanReken and DeeAnna Wales of Portland, Ore., and Sara and Aaron Niverba of San Diego; his father, Donald vanReken; and four sisters, Mary vanReken, Judy Herweyer, Donna Hoogendoorn and Peggy Nienhuis; his sisters-in-law, Beth DeJong and Gayle Schreiber; and brothers-in-law, James DeJong, Alan Herweyer, Andy Hoogendoorn and Calvin Taylor. He was preceded in death by his mother, Elsa (deWind) vanReken. One of his greatest desires for his last year was accomplished in seeing the birth of his first grandchild, Jonathan Mark Niverba, six months ago. He made a positive impression on many and handled situations with a gentle, honest and loyal heart. He will be missed. A memorial service will be held Sept. 8 at 2 p.m. in Holland, Mich., at Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church. A funeral service will be held Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. at Leonardtown Baptist Church in Leonardtown. Interment will follow at 3 p.m. at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Arrangements are being provided by Brinsfield Funeral Home in Leonardtown..." Contributed by VACEK, Glen glen.vacek@verizon.net [21SEP2010]

VanREKEN, AVCM Mark H. Retired mvanreken@hotmail.com "...P-3B(D) Radio operator, VP-23 76-79; P-3C UII IFT, VP-26 80-81; P-3B Sensor operator, VP-26 (VPU-1) Special Projects, 81-84; NAMTGD 1011 IFT/WST Instructor, 84-87; P-3C(NUD) IFT, VP-56 87-91. Retired in 93 as AVCM...." [E-Mail Updated 13SEP2003 | E-Mail Updated 23MAY2000]

VENCL, AWC Lou Retired louisv@ime.net "...VP-5 (1974 - 1977), VP-30 (1977 - 1980), USS Forrestal CV-59 (1980 - 1982), VP-56 (1982 - 1985), FASO Jax (1985 - 1988), VP-11 (1988-1991) Retired at Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) in Oct 94. Currently working for Summit Research Corp. supporting the Beartrap guys up here in the winter wonder land of Brunswick, Maine..." [16JAN98]

VERBA, AT Ronald Joseph ronverba@verizon.net "...Served as an AT crew member with VP-56 from December 1959 until March 1962. We deployed to NS Rota, Spain/NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I served aboard LQ-4 (P5M-2) until summer 1961 when we transistioned to P2V-7 Neptunes. While I was in crew compliment was 4 officers, seven enlisted (1 AD, 3 AT. 1 AE, 1 AO and 1 AM). We had "crew maintenance concept"--we fixed what we flew.Some of the best memories of my life!..." [17FEB2009]

VONDENBERG, AZ1 Frederick J. Retired fritz@friendlynet.com "...I served with VP-56 from 1982-1986 did deployments in NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. I had many good times and made many good friends during this time frame. It is time that I will never forget. If anyone remembers me you can E-mail me. I am currently retired and soon to be a Grandpa..." [17APR2003]

---

WAEGHE, AFCM P. J. Retired pjwaeghe@bellsouth.net ... "...Served with VP-16, VP-22, VP-30, VP-56, CNO, and ASWOC/TSC...Flying P-3's again for the U.S. Customs Service here in sunny Jacksonville, Florida..." [E-Mail Updated 31DEC2001 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 06NOV2000 | 00XXX96]

WALES, Steve TERRY21_35758@YAHOO.COM "...I was in VQ-2 from 79-83 and then came back with VP-56 in 85. I was reading this page and saw a lot of names I remember. I'm out of the Navy now 12 years and that was enough. I'm currently working at NASA in Huntsville, Alabama. I would like to hear from some of the old people there. Hi to John Herndon and Ed Russel. John and myself went over together in 77 and I can't believe he is still there. Also, I have a part time job working on a Bush Grand National Race Team. Look for me on TV sometimes. I'm what you call a Weekend Warrior when they need help. This year I'm helping the 59 car. Well, hope to hear back from some of you. Hey does anyone remember Faye Koenig who worked in AIMD there and if you know how to contact her I would like that info. Last known duty station was NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida. Also, if anyone knows Jeff Larson I wish to find him also. Thank you..." [28MAR2001]

WARD, AT1 Marion Douglas Retired dward911@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-49 (1963-1966), VP-56 (1969-1971) as a IFT, Dam Neck and aboard the USS Constellation (CV-64) until I retired in 1986..." [BIO Updated 18NOV2016 | 27NOV2010]

WARREN, Floyd "The ASW God" fdwarren@md.metrocast.net "...I served with VP-40 (1972 to 1975), VP-56 (1984 to 1986) and cherish the memories of both squadrons. I also served with VP-31 and ASWOC NAS Adak, Alaska. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 13OCT2007 | 18JAN2002]

WATSON, Benjamin D. bennypoo@worldnet.att.net "...I served with VP-23 from May 1956 through January 1969 and VP-56 from 1964 through 1969 . I was an Aviation Electronics Technician and also converted to Aviation Submarine Warfare Technician. P2V7's and P-3B & C's. Most will know me as BENNY. I am looking for previous crewmembers of each squadron..." [E-Mail Updated 16APR2006 | 19MAR2002]

WATTS, Mike microwatt@cox.net "...I served with VXN-8 (1973-1974) and VP-56 (1974-1977) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." [31AUG2011]

WEBBER, AXCS David D. Retired chiefwbr@webtv.net "...I am proud to say I spent the majority of my 20+ years in the VP NAVY. I had the good fortune to meet many memorable men during my various VP Squadron tours. I was also fortunate to be a Navy instructor with FAETUPAC NAS North Island, San Diego, California and later on NAMTD at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. It really touched me to remember my NAVY career thru the many pages of information contained in VPNAVY - I served with VP-40, VP-24, and VP-56. I want to thank you for providing me with the resources with which I was able to take this trip into the past and remember friends, places, and experiences..." [06FEB2002]

WEBER, AT1 Jack jweber@worldpath.net "...I was first a ground-pounder and later an IFT on TAC-4 in VP-56 from late '73 to early '77. I was then transferred to Naval Air Development Center Warminster from '77 till '80 where I worked in the AT shop and later in the P-3 division. I got out of the Navy with 10 years of service in May 1980. I'd like to hear from any former shipmates that I served with at either of these two duty stations..." [11AUG99]

WILEY, AOC David D. Retired daviddw746@gmail.com "...I served with VP-56 (1966-1970) and VP-46 (1974-1976) as AO Shop Supervisor. I went through factory school at Lockheed on the P-3C and was the first qualified P-3C Ordnance Aircrewman. Had a lot of great memories in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. IYAOYAS..." [E-Mail Updated 10MAY2019 | 27JUL2000]

WILKINSON, LCDR John P. III Retired jpwusn@home.com "...I was in VP-56, my first duty station, after enlisting in Apr. 59, from Mar 60- Aug. 61. Left VP-56 as an AT-3, flew on crew 1 with CDR Montgomery. After AT B School, went to VP-4 out in Okinawa, flew wit LCDR Bruce Cloud on crew 6 as an AX-1 from Sep. 62- Aug 64. After VP-4 moved back to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. I got picked up for the integration program and went to OCS in Newport, RI. Got commissioned as an Ensign and started my surface duty as an ASW Officer on the USS HOLDER DD-819 in Norfolk. After several more surface assignments, including CO of USS PAPAGO ATF-160, I retired in June 79. Now I'm a marine surveyor for the American Bureau of Shipping, and plan to retire from ABS this October. Many fond memories wit VP-56 and VP-4..." [E-Mail Updated 28JAN2000 | 02MAR98]

WILLIAMS, James E. "The Dude" emuman7765@aol.com "...I served with VP-56 (1965-1966) with a deployment NAS Sigonella, Sicily. I flew with Crew-12 as a forward observer in "The Dude's Diner." Our Plane Captain was Richard Bataglia "Batman."..." [18JAN2011]

WINN, AT2 Gregory gregwinn@live.com "...I served with VP-56 (1977–1980) with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Bermuda..." [27MAR2019]

WINN, Thomas "Mike" Retired tmwinn1@gmail.com "...I served with VP-16, VP-30, VP-45, VP-56, VT-27, VT-31, ASWOC NAS Keflavik, Iceland, VP-16, VAQ-33 and then retired. I am currently flying with DAL F/O 767-400..." [E-Mail Updated 16FEB2009 | 18FEB2007]

WINNS, REAR ADMIRAL Anthony L. http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/people/flags/biographies/winnsal.html "...Rear Admiral Winns is a native of Jacksonville, Fla. He graduated with distinction from the United States Naval Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in June 1978. He completed initial flight training at NAS Pensacola, Florida, and advanced navigator training at Mather AFB, Calif., where he was designated a Naval Flight Officer in January 1980. Following initial P-3 training at VP-31, Rear Adm. Winns was assigned to VP-6 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, in July 1980. Flying the P-3B MOD aircraft, he served as Legal Officer and Aircraft Division Officer. He completed two deployments to NAS Cubi Point, Philippines, and detachments throughout the Pacific and Indian Oceans. In January 1984, Rear Adm. Winns was assigned to the Naval Military Personnel Command in Washington, D.C. During his tour, he served in the Aviation Junior Officer Assignment Branch as Fixed Wing Initial Assignment Officer and VP Community Shore Duty Detailer. In April 1986, Rear Adm. Winns reported aboard USS Forrestal (CV 59), homeported in Mayport, Fla., as Operations Administration Officer. He qualified as Fleet Officer of the Deck Underway and Tactical Action Officer, and deployed to the Mediterranean and Caribbean Seas, and the North Atlantic Ocean. Following this tour, he attended the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, Calif. He graduated with distinction in December 1989, earning a Master of Science Degree in Financial Management. After refresher training in VP-30, Rear Adm. Winns reported to VP-56 at NAS Jacksonville, Floridae in June 1990. During this assignment, he served as Special Projects Officer and Administrative Officer, and deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. He then reported to CPW-11, as CNO Special Projects Officer. Rear Adm. Winns served as Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of VP-11 from August 1992 to July 1994. During his tour as Commanding Officer, Patrol Squadron Eleven deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, and participated in Bosnian Sharp Guard/Sharp Edge and Caribbean Drug operations. During the Sigonella deployment, the squadron became the first patrol squadron to employ the Maverick Missile System. During his command tour, VP-11 was awarded the coveted Battle "E", Golden Wrench Award for aircraft maintenance (4th consecutive), and numerous unit awards. From August 1994 to March 1995 Rear Adm. Winns was assigned to the Roles and Missions Staff of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, D.C. He served as Executive Officer aboard USS Guam (LPH 9) from August 1995 to December 1996 and deployed to the Mediterranean Sea. He reported aboard USS Essex (LHD 2) in December 1996 as the ship's Executive Officer and assumed command as Commanding Officer in May 1997. During his tour as Commanding Officer, Essex was awarded the Battle "E" and deployed to the Persian Gulf for Operation Southern Watch. Rear Adm. Winns was then assigned as the Policy Division Chief, Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate (J-5), on the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington, D.C. He became the first officer in his Naval Academy class to select for Flag rank in May 2000. He assumed duties as Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Force, Pacific and Commander Task Force 32 on 22 June 2001. Rear Adm. Winns has been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, three Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy Commendation Medals, the Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit, campaign and service awards..." [01JUN2003]

WOOTEN, Tony twooten39@sbcglobal.net "...I was an Aircrew Ordnanceman in VP-48 from 1984 to 1997 (deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska and then to NAS Cubi Point, Philippines). I then got out for a year, then went back in the Navy. I was sent to VP-56 (1988-Disestablishment) and went almost straight to NAS Sigonella, Sicily after a year back at NAS Jacksonville, Florida went to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Upon return to the states they disestablished VP-56 and I went to VP-16 from 1990 to 1993 and went right back to NAS Adak, Alaska. I got out in 1993. I hope to hear from some of my old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 12FEB2004 | E-Mail Updated 26AUG2001 | E-Mail Updated 16MAR2001 | E-Mail Updated 02SEP2000 | E-Mail Updated 04JUN2000 | 08JUL99]

WOOSENCRAFT, Kenneth J. KenIvyW@aol.com "...I served in VP-56 from June 1951 until January 1955. We flew PBM 5's and P5M 1's. The squadron was located at Breezy Point, NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I was a flight engineer on #4 until I became a Plane Captain on #6. The squadron went to Iceland, Norway, England, and Scotland in 1954 as part of OPERATION MAINBRACE which was a NATO operation. Hi to all former Shipmates..." [31JAN2002]

WRIGHT, Wesley seadart@lcc.net "...Served on CAC10 1962 - 1963. PPC Ray Burris, PP2P Chuck Norman, Nav. Chuck Conley. PC J D Smith, A. Moore, R. Resteri, Big A, and Myself (The Shadow). Retired 1977 from VP-56..." [02JAN98]

---

YARCK, AECS (AW/SW) Michael R. michael.yarck@navy.mil "...I served with VP-56 from 1984 to 1988, "A" School, VPU-1 from 1988 to 1990, Naval Aviation Maintenance Office (NAMO) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1990 to 1993, VP-26 from 1993 - 1998, NATTC NAS Pensacola, Florida (Instructor) from 1998 to 2001, VS-24 from 2001 to 2004, (2001 and 2003 deployments on the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and TR respectively), CNATTU HQ NAS Pensacola, Florida from 2004 to 2007, VS-32 from 2007 to 2009 (2007 deployment on the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and Disestablishment) and reported to VP-10 February 2009..." [12MAR2009]

YEARTY, AVCM Bob Retired bobyeartymail@cox.net "...After 31 years I finally retired in Jan 2000 from NATTC in Pensacola where I now live and work for a contractor doing curriculum upgrades for most of the A schools. Spent a lot of time in the center seat with VP-46 (74-77), VP-31 (77-80), VPU-1 (80-83), VP-30 (83-86) and VP-56 (86-90). After making AVCM had to leave flying and went to AIMD NAS Keflavik, Iceland, IC followed by NS Rota, Spain (90-96) and finally finishing up as the Avionics Department LCPO at NATTC. Enjoyed reading about old squad mates. If you're in this area give a call..." [E-Mail Updated 21JAN2002 | E-Mail Updated 15JUN2001 | 02SEP2000]

YOUNG, James rugsucker1@alltel.net "...I was a Aviation Ordinanceman with VP-56 around the later part of 1968 and early 1969. I was trained to be a P2 crewman at NAS Jacksonville, Florida and was assigned to meet VP-56 as they arrived from NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to their new base at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. As a newly trained ordinanceman crewman I was looking forward to my duty in the P2, but to my dismay the squadron was given the brand new P-3c upon their arrival from NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. We started training all over again in the P-3 and for me it was never the same. The P2 had that WWII mistique to it and was my love. After aircrewman trainingg was finished for the P-3 I had only a few months left in the Navy. They said I either had to reenlist or go to Operation Springboard and get a one month early out. I took the later but still the P2 is in my sole..." [12JUN2002]

---

ZAJACK, Richard (Zig (Dick) dickzz@snet.net "... I served with VP-56 from April 1962 - February 1966 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I was a Crew Member on LQ-10, LQ3 and LQ-5. I have many great memories..." [13MAR2005]

ZINAVAGE, Wilfred wzinavaage@aol.com "...I served with VP-11 (1959-1961) Crew-5, AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine, NAF Naples, Italy, VP-56 P-3C, VX-1 and VA-176. I wrote a book entitled "Deployment" in 1992, didn't sell many because no one can believe that P2V's used Avgas for recips and jets..." [E-Mail Updated 08MAY2012 | 14SEP2000]

ZOBEL, CDR Kurt Zobel Retired zobes55@aol.com "...I served VP-92 87-95, VP-56 83-87 at Delta Air Lines now still married to first wife and three kids..." [E-Mail Updated 11OCT2001 | 06JAN99]

---

"VP-56 Summary Page"

---