TARPA CONVENTION `99 CRUISIN' ON THE DEEP BLUE BRINE
MARCH 1999
Lockheed 37C
1999 Dues
Reminder
Your dues notice and return envelope was included in the last issue of TOPICS (November 1998.)
It may have been overlooked because of the rush of activities during the Holiday Season. Please check the mailing label on this issue to make sure that it includes the date 1999.
CONTENTS TARPA TOPICS THE MAGAZINE OF THE TWA ACTIVE RETIRED PILOTS ASSOCIATION
FEATURE ARTICLES:
DEPARTMENTS:
TARPA CONVENTION `99 7 by Chuck Hasler
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE John P. Gratz
3
LOCKHEED 37C by John P. Gratz
EDITOR'S NOTE John P. Gratz
4
RALPH CHARLES UPDATE by John P. Gratz
13
16
SECRETARY/TREASURER 5 Phil Belisle 11
` ONTOS H"
50
TARPA TOURS by Chuck Hasler
BELL, BUNK, AND CANDLE by Charlie Davis
GRAPEVINE by Hank Gastrich
19
55
FLOWN WEST
45
LETTERS
53
BALL TURRET by Charlie Davis CHAMPION'S RECORD CROSS-COUNTRY by Ona Gieschen
60
66
BIRTH OF THE CONNIE by Karl Ruppenthal
68
CITY OF COLUMBUS by Dick Davis
70
A DAY IN DUXFORD by John P.Gratz Material contained in TARPA Topics may be used by nonprofit or charitable organizations. All other use of material must be by permission of the Editor. TOPICS is published three times a year as an official publication of TARPA, a non-profit corporation. Editor bears no responsibility for accuracy or unauthorized use of contents.
Cover: Lockheed 37C, Gordon Hargis (l) Joe Orr(r) Photo: Courtesy of Scott Dine
PAGE 1... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
EDITOR
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
GRAPEVINE EDITOR
HISTORIAN
HISTORIAN EMERITUS FLOWN WEST COORDINATOR TARPA TOURS COORDINATOR INTERNET WEBMASTER
1646 Timberlake Manor Pkwy John P. Gratz (314) 532-8317 Chesterfield, MO 63017 jppjg@msn.com 1034 Caroll David R. Gratz St. Louis, MO 63104 dave@dgratz.com 291 Jamacha Rd, Apt 52 Henry E. Gastrich (619) 401-9969 El Cajon, CA 92019-2381 hankflew@aol.com 1276 Belvoir Lane Felix M. Usis III (757) 420-5445 Virginia Beach, VA 23464-6746 73644.3341 @compuserve.com 960 Las Lomas Edward G. Betts (310) 454-1068 Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 2616 Saklan Indian Drive #1 John S. Bybee (925)938-3492 Walnut Creek, CA 94595 8 Rustic Way William C. "Chuck" Hasler (415) 454-7478 San Rafael, CA 94901 2466 White Stable Road Jack Irwin (314) 432-3272 Town and Country, MO 63131 jack@smilinjack.com
OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS, 1997/98 PRESIDENT
FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
SECRETARY/TREASURER
SENIOR DIRECTOR DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
EX-PRESIDENT
1646 Timberlake Manor Pkwy John P. Gratz (314) 532-8317 Chesterfield, MO 63017 jppjg@msn.com 3728 Lynfield Drive Robert W. Dedman Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (757) 463-2032 rwd@sybercom.net 1201 Phelps Ave Robert C. Sherman (408') 246-7754 San Jose, CA 95117-2941 rcsherm@worldnet.att.com 3145 Geary Blvd, Box 705 Phillip M. Belisle (415) 567-9921 San Francisco, CA 94118 phiJes@compuserve.com 848 Coventry Street Harry A. Jacobsen (567) 997-0468 Boca Raton, FL 33487 36 Harrison Ave Lou Burns (401) 848-2727 Newport, RI 02840-3806 louburns@compusereve.com 96 Indio Drive Paul B. Carr (805) 773-9677 Pismo Beach, CA 93449 72153 @compuserve.com 233 S.E.Rogue River Hwy David M. Davies (503) 476-5378 Grants Pass, OR 97527 ddavies@alpronet
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The Active Retired Pilots Association of TWA PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE The good news about living in St. Louis is, that one can keep up with the TWA Story. The bad news about it is, that one can keep up with the TWA Story. Just when it seems that, like Sisyphus, they have the boulder at the hilltop, it rolls back down the hill again. This was made painfully clear by TWA Chairman Gitner and President Compton when they addressed an open meeting of the TWA MEC in January. Just one of the things they mentioned was the fact that TWA now has only a 3.7% share of the market, while UAL enjoys about 21%. DAL, AAL and NWA have almost that much. That means, in my opinion that the TWA niche is getting harder and harder to defend and, perhaps the only allies in this struggle are the active and retired employees and the people in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. Even in this group, there are problems. The major unions have had trouble reaching and settling contracts and working agreement issues. These problems have all been played out "ad infinitum" in the St. Louis media and this adds to everyone's concern. There is little we in TARPA can do beyond continuing to offer the same support, which we have in the past, and to keep our fingers crossed. It doesn't seem like much but that's the way it is for Retirees. Personally, I believe TWA will find a way to survive but, as always, the skies remain stormy and turbulent. Let me turn to matters with which we can exert some semblance of control. The able SecretaryTreasurer, Phil Belisle, informs me that almost one third of our members are on-line and that this list is growing. We are pleased to report that the TARPA web page is linked to both the TWA Flight Operations and the TWA MEC web pages. This enables us to get our message to the working pilots in a format which they use every day. This complements the TARPA letter, which is included in the Retirement Package of each pilot upon retirement. At this time, pilots can download an application from our web page to hard copy and send it with a check to Phil. We are working on an upgrade to establish a system whereby an applicant or a member can pay dues on-line just like ordering other on-line goods and services. We are also considering putting our Membership Directory and even TOPICS on-line. On the subject of dues, Phil tells me that they are coming in a little slow this year. I hope you _ haven't forgot us or lost the classy envelope in the last TOPICS. We have received many generous contributions from Eagles and Honorary Members. Their support is very much appreciated. If you read our financial reports, you know it is not wasted. I hope that you will sign up for TARPA Convention 1999 or as Chuck Hasher says slyly "TARPA on the Brine in 99". You know that the glowing reports of the TARPA Convention "At sea in 93"or the several others since then were not exaggerated. Why not see for yourself. We'd love to see you this year. Well, as Tailspin Tommy used to say, Happy Landings! Or was it Captain Midnight. Anyway, Happy New Year!
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EDITOR'S NOTE It occurred to us recently that while in the past, we had made occasional references to various things relating to Save-A-Connie, most notably the effort to replicate the first TWA Connie flights to Europe in 1996, a more complete story would be appropriate now. This cover photo was taken a few years ago when 37C was in St. Louis and flew up the Mississippi River in formation with a TWA MD-80. It was a flyby at the July 4th Fair St. Louis in front of crowd of half a million people at the Arch. This photo has been in my files since then but, when we looked at it recently, we decided to use it and others in a story. Many members of Save-A-Connie are members of TARPA, and many members of TARPA are in SAC. Still, there are many others who are not aware of their story. We hope this bit of history is of interest to all. We received a surprise a couple of days ago when a French Aviation Magazine came our way courtesy of Claude Girard. He too had been surprised to see that the magazine had a lengthy treatise on "ONTOS" the same old bird that was the subject of the cover story in the last TOPICS. We include herein a little of their story to let you practice your French. We are fortunate to have two stories from the prolific Charles Davis. One of these just missed the deadline last time, so we decided to give you a double dose this time. Also Ona Gieschen has allowed us to include her story about Gene Autry's horse, which had been published in the Save-A-Connie newsletter. You should know we always welcome and encourage members to submit stories. In the 1950's when one was at LGA there were many Connies could be seen parked on the ramp in an almost incomprehensible manner. In the 1970's and 80's, late afternoons at JFK saw 747's at every gate and hardstand. We have been looking for photographs of these impressive sights for years. Can you help us with this search? We would also like to find photos of 707's at JFK. Additionally, we will be happy to include in future issues of TOPICS any apropos images that you have access to that you would enjoy sharing with the membership. For those of you who are in the growing number Members on-line, we hope that you have, or soon will, pay a visit to the TARPA web page (twalpa.org/tarpa). As indicated by the President, the primary purpose of the site is to recruit new members but, we are working with our Webmaster, Jack Irwin, to make our page more and more useful to all of our members. All submissions for the next issue of TOPICS must be received by May 15,1999.
'Photos in this issue of TOPICS courtesy of Scott Dine (stlpd), Bill Dixon, Ona Gieschen, Don Peters and Dr. Joe Van Balen
PA GE 4... TA RPA TOPICS... MA RCH, 1999
January 21, 1999 Dear Members, Another year and the dread Y2K is nearly upon us, and to Dean Phillips .... we have no computer problem .. problem.. problem. Just kidding. Our data base can address most any date style from BCE to Julian. Dean had to do this stuff manually; which raises a respect from all us latecomers. We Fun for me is the explosion of computer use by our TARPA members. have gone from 200 to over 600 E-MAIL addresses in the past 18 months. Some of these E-mailers retired before I joined TWA and are now on-line. Who says you can't teach airmen new tricks? During this 1999 dues collection period, many members updated telephone area codes, mailing addresses, and E-mail addresses. You will find All these changes refer to several pages of these changes in this issue. the 1998 TARPA DIRECTORY. If you have any such changes since 1998 let me know. Use either the application form or the up-date form found in each issue of TOPICS. When you read this March 1999 TOPICS, please look at your mailing label. If you turned 75 years in 1998, you should show (E) XMPT: if a widow, you should show (H) XMPT; and if retired and not yet 75 years old, (R) 1999. If you show a year of 1998, it means you owe TARPA $30.00 for your 1999 dues.
Your correct data saves us money and time.
During the month of February, I will close out the TARPA books for 1998. With that done, we will send the data to our CPA for preparation of our tax return. I will then report the state of our finances to the Board of Directors at our March 1999 meeting. Our Members America balance as of This balance will be reduced with the cost of 12-31-98 was $27,790.24. the November 1998 TOPICS. All the best in 1999._
Phil Belisle TARPA Sec/Treas
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SOVEREIGN OF THE SEAS
SHIP FEATURES
•Beautiful, spacious dining rooms
•One of Royal Caribbean's most beloved megaships •Distinctive five-story Centrum lobby, lined with boutiques, champagne bar and lounges
• Dramatic two-story main show lounge, nightclubs and bars • Our signature Viking Crown Lounge perched high above the Caribbean Sea •Two swimming pools and sports deck
•ShipShape center, with extensive aerobics, cardio machines, saunas and spa
•Offers the cruise industry's largest youth center — Club Ocean SUPERIOR OCEAN VIEW STATEROOM
OCEAN VIEW STATEROOM
TOUCH OF CLASS CHAMPAGNE BAR
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INTERIOR STATEROOM
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POST CONVENTION
TOUR OCT. 1-6/DELUX
MOTOR COACH
MIAMI TO ATLANTA
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Lockheed 37C By John P. Gratz The story of Lockheed 37C, "The Star of America" is one of unbelievable dedication to an idea and a goal by a diverse group of aviation enthusiasts mostly, but not exclusively from the Kansas City area. The result of their early planning and hard work is the beautiful Super Connie now on display at the Downtown Kansas City Airport and, at Air Shows throughout the United States. The original idea, to find, refurbish and display the best aircraft to represent that golden age when airlines stretched their wings to serve the world. No other aircraft is as recognizable or more fondly remembered than the Lockheed Constellation. It all started in 1985 when one rainy day, in the office of then Richards-Gebaur airport Manager Dick McMahon, now Save-A-Connie President along with Larry Brown, who would become the first President, and several others were reminiscing and wondering about the fate of the Connies that once were so numerous in the skies over Kansas City. That hangar flying led to a search, which brought 70 other interested individuals from around the country who wanted to get involved. In January 1986, several prospective candidates and parts were located. After the best prospect was inspected and approved by two retired TWA Connie experts, negotiations began, and agreement was reached. They now had a Connie, N6937C, sitting in the desert sun of Arizona. Old 37C had not been flown in 11 years and had been sun scorched outside and vandalized inside. It would require 4,000 man-hours and nine weeks of hard work by about a dozen volunteers to get it ready for the ferry flight to MKC. Among those volunteers were several TARPA members, Frank Fitzgibbon, John Hatcher, Stan Scroggins and Harry Ward. On July 15,1986 this old bird, with an all TARPA flight crew, Harry Ward, Frank Fitzgibbon and Stan Scroggins, arrived at Kansas City with much fanfare, hoopla and, media coverage. Now, the real work would begin. Save-A-Connie workers literally rebuilt 37C. The original engines were replaced with military Wright R-3350-93 Turbo Compounds. Wing panels and stabilizers were removed and inspected. Hydraulic systems and the landing gear were thoroughly checked. Various parts were acquired from other Connies around the country. The cockpit instruments were repaired or replaced and the entire cockpit was repainted and re-upholstered. New avionics were installed, but the original look was maintained.
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Since 37C was built as a cargo/passenger plane for Slick Airways in 1959, the interior sorely needed work. It was gutted and rebuilt to passenger configuration. Sections of the floor had to be replaced and new fiberglass walls were installed. The exterior was scraped, scrubbed and painted in its new silver, red and white paint scheme as like the Trans World Airlines fleet of the 1950's, except that the Logo on 37C read Save-A-Connie. In recent years, the Logo has been Trans World Airlines, as was seen on so many Connies throughout the 50's. It took three years and 135,000 man-hours of work before on November 7,1989, Lockheed N6937C received an FAA AirWorthiness Certificate. Two days later,"The Star of America" was on its way to its first air show in Nashville. Now in this tenth anniversary year of showcasing this worthy piece of
aviation history, 37C has appeared at numerous air shows around the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It has been inspected by over 266,500 visitors. This "Star" appeared in the 1992 movie "voyager" and was featured in the A&E Documentary, "First Flights", hosted by Neil Armstrong, our first real man on the moon. We were lucky to have 37C at TARPA Convention 1994 in St. Louis along with several other former TWA aircraft. The "Star of America" is also a frequent and prominent guest at Oshkosh and at the Sun and Fun air show at Lakeland, Florida. Probably the most unusual and unexpected event in which 37C participated in was the annual Skydiver's Convention at Quincy, Illinois. Not only did Save-A-Connie provide them with a platform for mass jumping, but they persuaded otherwise sane members of Save-A-Connie to jump with them. Several of them were TARPA members too! In the cabin, just aft of the cockpit is the Navigator's station. It is still a useable crew position, and Save-A- Connie has all the necessary equipment to navigate celestially, by the sun and stars. However, In 1996 in hopes of replicating the first TWA Atlantic flights 50 years earlier, a more modern Global Navigation System was added. Also, inflatable slides and rafts were installed. Across from the Navigator's station, is the crew rest area. front cabin, spacious First Class seats have been restored and covered with identical fabric as used in the TWA Super G Connies. Happily, that new fabric was donated by the Swiss manufacturer. Two original TWA murals grace the walls in the lounge area. For the very wealthy who purchased extra First Class seats, sleeper berths were available as they are now aboard "the Star of America'. Finally, three galleys are located in the aft section. It never ceases to impress me to see the difficult work being done regularly and, in all kinds of Kansas City weather by these men and women. This Flying monument is not a toy. It requires about 2,000 man-hours a year for the mechanical work They have not calculated the administrative hours required to raise donations, order parts and supplies, and to schedule the shows,
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maintenance and so on. Many of us in TARPA are members of Save-A-Connie and I know how much they value our support. They have given us a worthy symbol of our proud history. Let us continue to support those who are doing the hard work. Let's keep the "Star of America" flying. There is more to Save-A-Connie than just the beautiful "Star of America". They have a fully restored and operational Martin 404 and, a former TWA DC-3 which is in the final stage of restoration. Also at the Save-A-Connie Hangar Headquarters is their Museum featuring a large collection of Memorabilia from the Piston Era. Frequent TOPICS contributor, Ona Gieschen, is the Curator. The Martin 404 is admittedly not as recognizable as the Connie but, it is an attraction at Air Shows. The restoration of the DC-3 is expected to be completed this year. It should then be able to join the Air Show circuit. This Historic Aircraft was in the TWA fleet from 1941 through 1952. For more information about Save-A-Connie, you can visit their Web Site at: saveaconnie.org. Their Telephone Number is: 816-421-3401 and their Mailing Address is: 480 N.W. Richards Road, Kansas City, MO 64 1 1 6-4234
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Ralph Lang Charles Update By John P. Gratz Two days after the first blizzard of 1999, Ralph Charles, one of the first pilots of the newly formed Transcontinental and Western Airline, who is now a TARPA Eagle, and at age 99 the world's oldest active pilot blew into St. Looie. He came to fly the TWA L-1011 simulator. Don Peters, a TARPA stalwart, had arranged for Ralph to get his first Jet flight in a Corporate jet at Executive Jet Int'l . at Columbus, Ohio, and this led to the idea of asking TWA for a flight in one of the wide-body Simulators. It took several years of lobbying by Don and me, but late last year under the auspices of TWA Vice President of flight Operations Tom Irwin, who coincidentally, is also a member of TARPA, a simulator flight was scheduled. TWA provided Ralph and his friend and neighbor Joe Van Halen with transportation from Columbus and with lodging in St. Louis. Don Peters who suggested this visit in the first place, came along also. TWA gave Ralph and his entourage a warm welcome after we got in from the 7-degree weather outside. One of the Flight managers, Bruce Kunz, began by hosting a tour of the Memorabilia in the lobby and various other parts of the Charles A. Lindbergh Flight Training Center. After a lot of flattering talk and story telling, it was time for the main event, the simulator flying. TARPA member and, TWA Captain Dusty Spain, met us at the simulator and helped Ralph get strapped into and comfortable in the left seat. Dusty started it up in the right seat. I took the ACM seat behind Ralph. The ample size of the L-1011 simulator also allowed Ralph's friend Joe, Don Peters, TWA Director of Media Relations, Jim Brown, a reporter and camera-man from our local NBC Affiliate to join the party. I was thinking that if flying something so different from the light planes Ralph has been flying over the years was not enough of a challenge, he was doing it in front of a cockpit full of kibitzers and in front of the awesome TV camera. Naturally, he performed in a very credible manner. It would not be exaggerating to say that he impressed us greatly. His fitness and good humor are amazing. He doesn't even wear glasses. Dusty set things up so that Ralph could make four landings. The TV guy said it was a long way from a Ford Tri-Motor, which, by the way, Ralph had flown at Oshkosh last August. I said it was no big deal going from a Tri-Motor to a Tri-Star, but of course it was. After the simulator was blocked in and shut down, Captain Kunz presented Ralph with a beautiful Certificate of Accomplishment to commemorate the occasion. Mr. Charles was then invited to address a recurrent training class of about seventy Pilots and
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Flight Attendants. I thought, perhaps this would make Ralph nervous, but he didn't even blink. He told a few stories and answered some questions. It's one thing to have worthy stories from 79 years of flying, but it's another to remember all the names and places. Afterwards, Ralph told me that he gave numerous speeches at the Oshkosh AirVenture 98, and therefore was rather used to public speaking. One of the many pleasures of getting to know Ralph was, the chance to look at copies of his early logbooks. He logged his first flight for the T&WA July 4, 1931. We include a copy of that first page. One of the later entries includes in the remarks; "All three motors quit, three times." The logbooks also show the names of the Captains with whom he flew: Joe Bartles, H. Campbell, Skippy Taylor, Felix Preeg, Abbott Hanson, and Pat Gallop. There are other names in the logbook, but they were too faded to read. After a light lunch, I took Ralph, Don Peters and Joe Van Halen downtown so that they could visit the Arch. It was a very clear day and very bright with a blanket of snow. From the top, 630 feet above ground level, with Ralph's eagle eyes, I think he could almost see all the way back to Columbus. We returned to the airport where I said goodbye to a very special man and his two very good friends. I am sure to see them again in Columbus, where some people are hoping to have an event in July to honor the 70 '" Anniversary of TAT and again at Oshkosh in August. Spending a day with a man like Ralph was one of my best memories. I will try to persuade him to bring his lady friend and join us for TARPA Convention 99 on board the Sovereign of the Seas.
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Ralph
Charles
Visit
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by HANK GASTRICH
291 Jamacha Road Apt. 52 El Cajon, CA 92019-2386 Tel/Fax: 619-401-9969 E-Mail: hankflew@aol.com
GREETINGS! I'll begin by wishing Happy 1999 to all. As I wind up the first GRAPEVINE of the new year, I find it hard to believe this will be the fifteenth issue I have assembled. I think a huge "thank you" to all those who send in the letters which make the pages what they are is in order. That several pages of copy are `cadged' from the dues notes received by our Secretary/Treasurer Phil Belisle is of small concern; I consider these notes just as newsworthy as letters. My idea of what the GRAPEVINE should be has always been to use as many "names" as possible. There is no overkill in doing this because so many of the letters are from friends and peers of yesterday. In each issue I find notes and letters from someone I flew with and the remembrance of a flight or layover we shared. From the growing number of retirees I have yet to meet, whose names I do not recognize, your letters please me because the survival of TARPA is the new blood that becomes part of us. Hopefully, you all experience similar feelings when you see someone's name who you just had not thought about for a while. YOU HEARD IT HERE - FIRST! Super Bowl XXXIII will soon be played and since I did so well last year (wish I had backed my feelings with a bet) when I picked the Denver Broncos to defeat the Green Bay Packers, I shall make a prediction for the 1999 game. Today is Tuesday, January 19, and the entire GRAPEVINE will be in Priority Mail to JPG by tomorrow. This should make believers of those who doubt my veracity. You can be sure, John Gratz will not change the scores I submit once he receives them (I know, I tried to get him to just up my Packer points a couple of digits last year). Since the Atlanta Falcons upset the Vikings, I feel the Broncos will find it somewhat easier to give John Elway a second Super Bowl ring, and DENVER 37 - ATLANTA 24. say the final score of the Super Bowl game will be SCHOOL DAYS! Spring semester starts Tuesday (1-26). I enrolled in courses that total 12 units and if these old legs can take it, I plan to add a PhysEd class and play softball for one more unit. My hip doctor said, "playing was OK but don't slide" - to which I replied, "if you hit it far enough, you don't need to slide." My academic courses will be English Literature, Financial Accounting and Mathematical Statistics. I'm hoping the Brit Lit course will teach me to speak like Cary Grant!
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GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D) HUMOUR SIGNS WE SAW On Maternity Room Door - "Push, Push, Push" On Electrician's Truck - "Let us Remove Your Shorts" At Optometrist's Office - "If you don't see what you're looking for, you've come to the right place" On Scientist's Door - "Gone Fission" BLONDES ARE MORE FUN - NY Hear about the blond who got an AM radio? It took her a month to realize she could play it at night. What did the blonde say when she saw the sign in front of the YMCA? "Look, they spelled Macy's wrong!" MAINTENANCE LOG WRITE-UPS Left inside tire almost needs to be replaced." "Almost replaced left inside tire." "Dead bugs on windshield." Live bugs on order."
INTERESTING FACTS FOR YOUR WAREHOUSE OF USELESS KNOWLEDGE The national anthem in Greece has 158 verses. No one in Greece is known to have memorized all 158 verses. There are more chickens than people in the world. A shark is the only fish that can blink with both eyes. Tigers have striped skin, not just striped fur. When the University of Nebraska plays at home, the stadium becomes the state's third largest city. In England, the Speaker of the House is not allowed to speak. Two thirds of the world's eggplant is grown in New Jersey. WOMEN (I just print these and absolutely do not believe them) How many men does it take to open a beer? None! It should be open when she brings it! I married Miss Right. I just didn't know her first name was Always. Some mornings I wake up grouchy ... and some
"Evidence of hydraulic leak on right main gear." "Evidence removed." THE VAN GOGH FAMILY His dizzy aunt ... Verti Gogh His brother who ate prunes ... Gotta Gogh His bouncy nephew ... Poe Gogh His niece who's been living in his van ... Winne Bay Gogh His cousin in Mexico ... Ah Mee Gogh His uncle who moved to Yugoslavia ... U Gogh PAGE 20... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D) HUMOUR YOU MIGHT BE A REDNECK - IF Your house still has the "WIDE LOAD" sign on the back. You've been married three times and still have the same in-laws. You have a rag for a gas cap. The gas pedal on your truck is shaped like a bare foot. You think the French Riviera is a foreign make car.
WEBSTER'S DICTIONARY CORRECTED ADULT - person who has stopped growing at both ends and is now growing in the middle. CANNIBAL - Someone who is fed up with people. MYTH - A female moth. MOSQUITO - An insect that makes you like flies better. YAWN - An honest opinion openly expressed. TOMORROW - One of the greatest labor saving devices of today. BUMPER STICKERS
LITE CHOP - MY A--
ELEPHANT JOKES
Work is for people who don't know how to fish! Hang up and drive. Prevent inbreeding: ban country music. Wink, I'll do the rest. Where there's a will I want to be in it Consciousness: That annoying time between naps. Be nice to your kids - they choose your nursing home.
Why are elephants wrinkled? Have you ever tried to iron one? Why do elephants wear sandals? So they won't sink into the sand. Why do ostriches stick their head in the ground? To look for elephants who forgot to wear sandals. What do you get if you cross an elephant with a whale? A submarine with a built-in snorkel. What is beautiful and wears glass sandals? Cinderelephant.
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GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
JOE MEACHUM
Daytona Beach, FL
Hank, Hope you can use these pictures taken at our convention. Sorry for taking so long to develop the film. Joe, No problem Joe - it was good to hear from you. I am going to use a little journalistic license and `trim' a couple of the photos in order to get all three on the page.
JIM MILLER [LO GROSS/LO NET - SAM WELLNER PEGGY MEACHUM - JOE MEACHUM
KEN & ROSEMARY SLATON
JOE & PEGGY MEACHUM - PETRA & H O VAN ZANDT
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GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
Prairie Village, KS
BOB MATNEY Hi Hank,
Enclosed are a few pictures I took at the TARPA `98 meeting in Va. Beach. Thought maybe they could be used in the TARPA magazine. I wasn't sure who to send them to - Bob said you would know. Missed you at the get together. It was a fun time even though we had to leave early before the banquet. But our well laid travel plans fell apart as did our transmission when we were going through Lexington, VA. We were there for 5 days while they ordered a new one. We did stay in a very beautiful motel; rented a car and saw more of Virginia. We are all signed up for the cruise and TARPA `99 Mary Ann & Bob Matney Ed's note: My old, er, my former TWA classmates (class of November `53). Poor planning by Robert, Mary Ann. He should have broken the transmission on the way east so you would have had five days at the convention. He was right about "where to send the pictures" however - I passed them on to the old coot that puts them in my grapevine column and he put them on this page. I think!.
JIM PAXTON, BOB & MARY ANN, ANITA PAXTON, DORIS & JOHN HOAG
BOB & MARY ANN MATNEY - LEE AND MEREDITH MOFFETT
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GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
EARL JINNETTE
Calpine, CA
HI HANK, AGAIN ENCLOSED IS A PHOTO OF THE OLD BURDETTE AIRPORT WHERE JACK FRYE STARTED HIS CAREER. I SOLOED ON THIS FIELD IN AN E-2 TAYLOR CUB, WITH A 37 HP, SINGLE IGNITION CONTINENTAL ENGINE. THE E-2 HAD NO BRAKES, NO TAIL WHEEL, ONLY A SKID; NO SIDE WINDOWS EITHER. HAD TO WEAR HELMET AND GOGGLES IN ORDER TO SOLO FROM THE REAR SEAT. THE PRICE? THREE DOLLARS PER HOUR WET! THE INSTRUCTOR WAS FREE, AS HIS GOAL WAS TO BUILD TIME TOWARD A COMMERCIAL LICENSE. AT THAT TIME THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE REQUIRED FIFTY HOURS TO QUALIFY FOR A PRIVATE LICENSE, ONE HUNDRED FIFTY FOR A LIMITED COMMERCIAL AND TWO HUNDRED FOR A COMMERCIAL. AT THREE DOLLARS PER HOUR I NEEDED ONLY $600 TO QUALIFY FOR A COMMERCIAL. I WAS ONLY ABOUT $580 SHORT! DEPRESSION DOLLARS WERE STILL IN SCARCE SUPPLY. SO MUCH FOR HINDSIGHT! AT THAT TIME JACK FRYE'S NAME WAS ALREADY WELL KNOWN IN AVIATION CIRCLES. I SAW HIM ON THE AIRPORT ONLY ONCE BUT DID NOT MEET HIM. HOWEVER, TEN YEARS LATER, HE WAS RIDING IN THE COCKPIT AS HE OFTEN DID, REMINISCING WITH THE SENIOR PILOTS AND I HEARD HIM MENTION BURDETTE AIRPORT. IN A LULL DURING THE CONVERSATION I MENTIONED HAVING SEEN HIM THERE IN 1936. HE SAID HE TOO HAD SOLOED FROM BURDETTE, IN THE MID 1920'S AND HAD EVEN STARTED A FLYING SCHOOL THERE. IT WAS YEARS LATER BEFORE HE ACTUALLY STARTED AN AIRLINE AT THIS SAME FIELD - AN AIRLINE WHICH EVENTUALLY BECAME TWA! THE MAIN STREET ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE PHOTO IS WESTERN AVENUE AND UNLESS MY MEMORY FAILS ME, THE CROSS STREET IS 99TH. THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN ABOUT 1934. IN 1938 THE WAR IN EUROPE WAS SHAPING UP POLITICALLY AND INCREASED MANUFACTURING IN THE L. A. AREA CREATED THE NEED FOR MORE LOCAL HOUSING, WHICH WAS THE NEMESIS FOR BURDETTE FIELD AND NUMEROUS OTHER SMALL FIELDS. MOST OF THE FBO'S MOVED TO MINES FIELD, ONLY A SMALL DISTANCE AWAY. THE OLD WOODEN, DIRT FLOOR HANGARS WERE BULLDOZED AWAY LATER THAT SAME YEAR. EARL JINNETTE Ed's. Note: Thanks for another nice "old timer's" letter Earl. I soloed some 6 years later and remember the price had risen to $8 an hour of which the instructor received $3. And the J-3 Cub I soloed had neither brakes or a tail wheel.
PAGE 24... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
Where it All Began
BURDETTE AIRPORT, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA circa 1934
PAGE 25... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
J B MOSER
King of Prussia, PA
Dear Hank: Here is my effort to help bulk up our beloved Tarpa Topics: In mid August, '98, I was invited by the Chief of Naval Air Training, Admiral Bucchi, to spend a couple of days aboard the John F. Kennedy, CV 67, the Carrier presently being used for Carrier Qualification Landings for the new boys. I reported to Norfolk, Virginia, where a plane was waiting to ferry me to the ship which was operating about 100 miles off Jacksonville. I trapped aboard and spent a few days observing operations. I was shown everyplace there was to see on that ship, and I mean EVERYWHERE! 23 stories tall and a ladder to every one and I climbed them all! Of course, the most interesting part was happening on the flight deck, as you may imagine. Arrested landings, touch and goes, wave-offs and cat shots, you name it, I saw it all. What an opportunity to sit and watch that! In the Captain's quarters there is a beautiful room dedicated to artificats and memorabilia of President Kennedy, rocking chair, etc. The room is all panelled and was laid out by Jackie Kennedy. Very impressive. Probably the most impressive of all was the way all these 18, 19, 20 year olds ran that flight deck. Believe me, they owned it and I was extremely proud of them. As my stay ended I was put in a plane and CATAPULTED off the ship! KABOOMI Back to Norfolk and home. What an experience. Good health, Jack Moser
Ed's Note: Thanks for the letter Jack. Fantastic! You sure made my memory bones ache Jackson. Some years back the late Captain Bill Piper had an experience similar to yours and reading it made me yearn for my carrier days which I am sure have changed considerably since 1945-46 (but then so have I). My first carrier was the Guadacanal which could probably be a "lifeboat" on the Kennedy and I spent a year on the Princeton. Sorry I can't find a carrier pic - I had one but it has disappeared. This is an old Kingfisher being catapulted off a cruiser - probably at a flying speed of 75 or 85 which pales when compared to your speed leaving the Kennedy.
PAGE 26... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
GIL DAVIS
Pacific Palisades, CA
Dear Hank, A group of us are attempting a repeat of two prior very successful TWA Crew Members get-together. We had many people after the event express their disappointment that they were not informed and thus could not attend. Our last one in 1997 at Santa Monica was attended by more than 70 crew members and this year we would like to hopefully double that number. This was a non-structured, no-agenda affair, sort of a crew members Woodstock. It was pleasing to see so many people renew old friendships and everyone enjoyed the day. We are running a notice in the Skyliner but we could really use TARPA grapevine to help get the word out. We also encourage everyone to contact their TWA friends. For those who are flying in, transient parking is available. The DC-3 restaurant above the museum would love to have our lunch on a non-commnitted basis. I am trying to obtain discounts at the restaurant and the museum, but I have not yet received confirmation of this. If anyone needs additional information, feel free to e-mail Gil Davis at gmd@ate.net or Mike Stofer at mikestofer@aol.com, or they can call Ted Price at 805-650-9588. Whatever, thanks in advance for any help that you can give us Hank.
Ed's Note: Sounds like a winner Gil. I hope you will double or even treble your last event's attendance.
Third
Bi-Annual
TWA
Crew
Members
Informal Get-Together
When :
Thursday, 13 May 1999
Where: Santa Monica Flying Museum
Santa Monica Airport Santa Monica, CA 1000 a.m.
PAGE 27... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
ART SCHMIDT & FRITZ JENKINS
Lecanto, FL
Dear Hank, Another letter from Betty Anderson who sent you an article on "Fritz" Jenkins that was printed in the March 1999 issue of TARPA TOPICS. I have never let you know that as a result of that grapevine article, another retired TWA Captain, Art Schmidt saw it and called Fritz. It's ironic that they both should live in Lecanto, Florida. They were earlier acquaintances and Arty remembered Fritz when he was a dispatcher. Now they have quite a friendship and get together often to reminisce about the good old days. I had them over for dinner one evening and took this snapshot. As you can see they are in good shape for their 80+ years. It's a coincidence that this Arthur Schmidt and Richard (Dick) Arthur Schmidt of Missouri both flew with TWA and they both have wives named Dorothy. Arts wife has Alzheimer's and Art is a very devoted husband, visiting her daily. Dick and Dorothy go back and forth to Aspen, Colorado. They keep active in church affairs and Dick is involved in the "Save A Connie" project. He keeps Fritz as to what is going on. I wish I had more to tell you about these fellows but it is hard to nail them down; they are both so active. Thank you and the best to you,
A COUPLE MORE GOOD EGGS Thanks for being a "good secretary Betty - it was good to hear front you again.
PAGE 28... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
Belhaven, NC
A T HUMBLES Dear Hank,
I was surprised at not seeing you at the reunion in Virginia Beach. Hope this doesn't mean you had a medical condition. We had a great time and the Dedmons did a fine job. It is a lot of work putting on a show like that. I was happy to see Carter Burgess there and he is looking good. Mickey and Betti Wind drove up from Florida to our place and then the four of us went to the convention. Mickey and I were recalled into the Air Force during the Korean War so the four of us spent 20 months together in Lemay's personal air force. The little but loud Newark domicile was well represented, too bad I couldn't add your name to the list. Most of the younger ones started out there with TWA and others were based there at one time or another. Hope I haven't missed anyone so here is the list of EWR attendees: Walt Brafford Bob Hayes Dick Davis Jack Wilmot Mario Nicolais Sam Rumford Don Nealis Manny Stemmel Barry Hoffman Russ Day Meredith Moffett Red Featherman A T Humbles Mickey Wind Vic Hassler Jim Anderson Jim Schmitt Bill Merrigan George Toop Lemarus Butler Ivan Turner Floyd Evans Virgil Hoffman Yours Truly A. T. Humbles Thanks A T for the letter and hope you are feeling better now when this is almost ready to go to press. As you noted, old Newark was small (once as I recall, only seven bid runs and three reserves) but mighty. Berkshire, England
JAMES A MAJER
James had his first flight with Captain Walt David on Flight 300 from ORD to CMH on 19 July 1965 and remembers, "Walt shared legs and was very helpful to his new co-pilot." Jim's most memorable flight was with Captain C D Woods when on the 13th day of an around-the-world flight, it was hi-jacked to Dawson's Field near Amman, Jordan. The crew was held hostage for 25 days before being released, for which they were very thankful to be alive and going home. Jim says, "I still feel grateful to be living on borrowed time these past 28 years (retired 1 November 1992). His hobbies include skiing, golf, opera, fitness, scrabble, hiking in U. S. National Parks. Welcome to TARPA James. I am looking forward to many exciting stories that we can use in the GRAPEVINE - like some stories about your tour of duty in Jordan.
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GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
TEX LUEDTKE
Watsonville, Ca
Dear Phil; Please find my annual dues check in the amount of $25.00 enclosed. Marian and I are enjoying retirement (6 1/2 months) and haven't missed the hassle of commuting although we are doing a good amount of travel; three family reunions in Texas and another in Atlanta comprised most of our domestic travel. Marian took a ten day antique buying tour of Southern France while Stan Crawford and I plus three other males spent two weeks in Bolivia on a self guided tour. Our present adventure is driving across Southern Canada in my commuter car (a 1977 Buick with 105,000 +/- miles). We drive it for a week or ten days, fly home, fly back, retrieve the car, and continue on the odyssey. There is no emotional tie to the car, so if it coughs or develops some expensive mechanical problem, we will push it over a cliff littering a canyon in Southern Canada, and fly home. " La Bomba' as she is affectionately known, is now resting in a hotel parking lot in Toronto and will retrieve it next Monday. We enjoyed the Tailwinds Race Day at Bay Meadows last Sunday. A rather small showing with only 32 attending. We are looking forward to the Christmas Party in Foster City. Haven't made the TARPA gatherings yet but hope to in the near future. Talked with Thad Mills about a week ago and he is still flying corporate with most of his trips with Bill Gates. He and family are doing well. We hope you and yours are fine. I'll try to stay more in touch. Sincerely yours,
DOROTHY RUSH
Midland, TX
Hi Hank, Ms. Rush is one of the TWA Hero's. She has subscribed for several years. Phil Ed's Note: Phil sends me the "dues letters and notes" which I trust explains what I am doing reading other's mail. Ms. Dorothy Rush was secretary to Captain Ed Frankum and was also for a time. President of the TWA Seniors Club. Dorothy notes on her subscription form, "Your magazine is top notch and the best way to keep up with past and present events at TWA, the company of which I have such fond memories." Ed's. Note: Thank you Dorothy. It is good to hear from all TOPIC readers and I feel sure you have in your almost 30 years tenure with TWA, yourself made many and huge contributions to `great memories' of many other TWA'ers.
PAGE 30... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
VIRGINIA
BEACH
SEPTEMBER CAVALIER HOTEL ANITA PAXTON
REUNION
1998
JOE & ELIESE BROWN - MATT WITTMAN PAT HASLER AND 3 AMIGOS MARILYN STANTON
PAGE 31... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
' GRAPEVINE (CONT D)
YARDLEY, PA
RAY BERTLES RAY G. BERTLES 1143 DICKINSON DRIVE YARDLEY, PA 19067 Dear Phil,
Enclosed is a check for mailing me the missing copies of TARPA TOPICS. I enjoy reading them from cover to cover. Thanks to you and John Gratz for such a prompt response. Joan and I are again unable to attend the convention as our other activities conflict. Joan because of her active role as an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and myself with a heavy volunteer schedule. As chairman of the Airline Pilot's Headquarters at the EAA Oshkosh Airventure (Fly-in) I was able to visit with 127 active and retired pilots that came by to sign in and meet their other crew members. My volunteer work begins with the New Jersey Aviation Education Council, the Experimental Aircraft Association as a Technical Flight Advisor, Young Eagle Representative, and Chairman of the Airline Pilot Headquarters. The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics has asked me to apply to be a member of the Aircraft Operations Committee and I should be meeting with them a few times each year. I am still actively flying and currently fly my Beech Sierra and several aircraft owned by friends. These range from a 1937 Piper J-2 through a new Cessna CJ-525 Citation Jet. In answer to your question about our seasonal addresses, Joan and I both need to be in Pennsylvania at least part of each month during the year and usually spend seven to ten days each month at our Arizona address, so if all mail could be sent to our home in Yardley, PA it would be best. Fraternally yours,
Greensboro, AL
THAD MAY Dear Hank,
I am sending my dues even tho' I'm an Eagle to you because you seem to be the most active one in the pilot group! I'm so thankful to be a member of TARPA. The directory itself is worth the dues and as long as I can afford to, I'll keep sending them in. Thanks much for your contribution to us pilots who don't do much. Your efforts are certainly appreciated! Please note my change of address. Sincerely, Thad May Ed's Note: Good to hear from one of my favorite Eagles. I note your address change Thad but it looks as if you never really moved but rather that the post office just cleaned up their act! PAGE 32... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
John W. Malandro 2101 Westmoor Place Arlington, TX. 76015 Phone (817) 277-4170 Malandro@Arlintigton. net
Dear Hank, Having just sent in the annual dues, I request that you disregard my age and accept my contribution to the most enjoyed publication I find in my mailbox. My acceptance of age 76 and being termed an Eagle will take time and grace I may not possess. It used to be I'd look in the Skyliner for names of folks with 30 years, etc.. After a few years of not recognizing any one, I looked in the retirements section. Sadly, these days the names I can recall are listed in "In Memoriam". I joined TWA after service in WWII. As a navigator flying International, I had the honor of flying with many great fellows. "Legends & Pioneers" comes to mind. Hal Blackburn, Joe Carr, Bob Buck, Roger Don Rae, Harry Campbell, Hugh Herndon, Don Terry, John Michaelson, Charlie Kratovil, et al. That list could go on and on. As I compose this letter, my memory recalls many experiences much too numerous to recount in this letter. Perhaps someday with the help of a six pack ... With the phasing out of TWA's navigators, I was retired in the fall of 1962. After a couple of nonskeds, Trans Caribbean Airways hired me. Along the way, I'd picked up some pilot time and an F/E written. For nearly four years TCA allowed me to pretend I knew what I was doing while working as a Navigator or an F/E on DC-8's. Incidentally, TCA's roster included a few prior TWA navigators, Lou Mahoney, John Nunley, Steve Geronimo, & myself. In 1970 American Airlines bought TCA. The seniority numbers put me in the F/E seat of a B727. While with A.A. a neat experience occurred in Dec. 1974. When I saw my Dec. bid award, I noted that I was to fly the month with Capt. Robert Shields. I went through my old TWA log books and discovered that I'd left KIDL on Dec. 4, 1954 enroute Paris navigating a TWA Connie with Capt. Robert Shields! Twenty years later on Dec. 4, 1974, I found myself departing LGA as F/E on a B727 with the son, Capt. Robert Shields. I waited until T.O.C. and passed my old log book to Capt. Shields. Small world time. Since we had the same sequence for the month & Robert Sr. was in town for the holidays we arranged a small reunion. Robert Jr. was very much a replica of his gentleman father. With the grace of God I managed to hang in there until mandatory retirement in 1982, flying a B727 from the right seat. Probably one of the oldest copilots A.A. had ever retired. All of it was filled with pleasure and a lot of fun. Hard work now and then, but a shame to take the money most of the time. Through the years including WWII, TWA, TCA & AA, my memories with TWA stand out among the very best. Today my pride in TWA is shared with my son John now a B767 I/O based New York.. Incidentally, somewhere out there to the Far West are two other old navigators. Marvin Chrisman & All Bey who also have shared their sons with TWA, each of whom son John has flown with. My own personal single page constraint dictates I close before I wear out my welcome. However, as promised at the end of paragraph two, I'll probably be back with a few old stories. Until next time, all my very best to the many good old guys who live on in my nostalgia.
PAGE 33... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D) L.I.,NY
Kingston, SUNDAY FREEMAN May 15, 1977 Kingston, N. Yo
HARRY GRAHAM Ed's Note: As the adjoining news article indicates, Harry Graham., our illustrious navigator from the days of TWA's earliest International operations, had other talents besides an ability to navigate across the North Atlantic Ocean. In fact, from information in the accompanying article, Harry did whatever lawyers do before he did what navigators do. The enclosed snapshots Harry in the copilot seat of what looks an awful lot like a DC-4 cockpit, albeit, a lot of Harry's time was spent in the Boeing Stratoliners. Hank
Len Wassenberg on left - Harry on the right Photo taken - April 23, 1943 on Flite #1 from Goose Bay, Canada to Chaplet, Baffin Island
Harry D. Graham, a practicing attorney in Kingston for 40 years, has been named counsel to the New. York Senate Agriculture Committee by Senator Edwyn E. Mason, R-48th Dist., the committee chairman. Graham is a graduate of St. John's University and was a lead navigator for the Air Force Ferrying Command during World War II, pioneering numerous transatlantic, equatorial and polar air routes and serving as navigator for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, and other leading figures. Graham, who lives at 120 Ringtop Road, will assume responsibility for all the committee's legal requirements.
Harry April 23, 1943 on Flite #1 Goose Bay, Canada to Chaplet, Baffin Island
PAGE 34... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
Murphy, NC
LEW JUDD Hi Pope!
I enjoyed your letter and would love to see the video. Where were you 57 years ago today (Ed's. Note:Written 12-7-98)? I was on K-P at Albrook Field down in Panama. Since it was Sunday, supper was cold-cuts. The line formed outside the mess hall in the day room, The old guy who was the sergeant came out of the orderly room and announced that the Japs had bomber Pearl Harbor and everyone was to report to their place of duty. Nobody paid any attention, a few remarks like, "Go back to your bottle" floated around which made him jump up on the pool table in his GI shoes. This got everyone's attention (you weren't even allowed to desecrate the pool table with your rear end when you were making a shot had to use the bridge)! When he repeated his orders this time, every one believed him. I was inside the mess hall, and taking off my apron, I threw it at the mess sergeant saying, "Please fold this neatly and put it away (Ed's note: I slightly changed Lew's comment). I'm going down to my plane - I was in what was then called a pursuit squadron and one of 10 crew members. When I got to the line the old Line Chief, a veteran of WWI, seeing me said, "What in hell are you doing here?" "There's a war on and I'm reporting to my place of duty," I replied. "Get back up to the mess hall," he growled. "Do you think we are going to quit eating just because of a war?" So, I went back and faced a Pee'd Off mess sergeant and reclaim my apron (but I was glad he hadn't put it where I told him). The meal was served late and because of the blackout (It was thought the Japanese would bomb the canal next) I had to clear the tables while holding a kerosene lantern in one hand. Later everyone was issued a gun. Being in the Air Corps, we were supposed to get .45s but there weren't enough so we were issued Springfield rifles and bayonets. Some of the guys attached the bayonets right then. That night, about two a.m. the air raid sirens went off. We didn't have radar then and they used giant listening devices, and the guy listening thought he heard airplanes. In the pitch black we were ordered to leave the barracks and go to the slit trenches we had dug earlier. Here were several four story barracks being evacuated in total darkness with a--holes carrying rifles with bayonets
PAGE 35... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT ' D)
attached running around in the dark. Then we jumped into the slit trenches which were half filled with water. Lying in the water we saw a string of lights several miles long coming toward us. It was the ammo trucks bringing the stuff from the jungle down to camp. When they got to the gates, the MPs made them put out their headlights and use only the little blue convoy lights. Now they couldn't see each other with these and when the lead truck stopped at the flight line, each of the next trucks, with much noise from the collisions and the bombs crashing together ran into the truck it was following. Luckily, nothing exploded, What a way to start a war? Take care and don't bother to confess POPE. Lew Ed's Note: A good letter for remembering this day and perhaps it might move others to write the GRAPEVINE about where they were on 7 December 1941. Some interesting tales I dare say! For me, I was a senior in High School who wasn't real sure where Pearl Harbor was, with a mere six weeks to go before graduating when the news broke. Interrupted Sammy Kaye's Sunday music. I also remember a full year later, when I finally reported to duty I was issued a gun. A wooden gun with a wooden bayonet and my uniform was a surplus CCC uniform; the shirt was striped with vertical blue stripes. The foregoing thanks to a congress that kept cutting the military budget and advocating isolation and neutrality. REMEMBER THESE ?
PAGE 36... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (CONT 'D )
CLINTON, NJ
ELWOOD THORNTON Dear Phil:
First the good news, I would like to inform all of the workers of TARPA how much I appreciate all the work you guys put into keeping us informed. It really is interesting to read what is going on and what other buddies are doing. Also to relive some of the flying experiences we had. The articles about the different aircraft we flew is really nice. So congratulations on the fine job your doing and hopefully will keep it up. Now the bad news. My wife, Janice, died on July 2, her birthday, of a sudden heart attach while talking on the phone to her sister. So please remove her name from the directory. We would have been married for 46 years the 16 of August. Thanks again for the great organization of TARPA. All other information for me in the directory is OK. Sincerely, Elwood F. Thornton retired F/E
LAKE TAHOE, NV
KATIE BUCHANAN DEAR HANK:
THANKS TO BOB AND ILSE DEDMAN, THE HOST AND BEAUTIFUL HOSTESS, FOR THE 1998 TARPA CONVENTION. THE WEATHER WAS PERFECT AND THE HOTEL FACILITIES AND STAFF AT THE CAVALIER WERE TIP-TOP. THE DEDMANS WENT ALL OUT ARRANGING ACTIVITIES AND TOURS TO PLEASE EVERYONE. THE HOSPITALITY ROOM WAS LARGE AND COMFORTABLE AND THE USUAL VOLUNTEERS HELPED MAKE EVERYONE WELCOME. THANKS TO MY LOYAL BAR-KEEPERS. THE BANQUET ROOM WAS DECORATED BEAUTIFUL WITH THE TABLE ' S CENTER-PIECES DESIGNED AND ARRANGED BY A GROUP OF THE WIVES. I WISH YOU A JOYOUS HOLIDAY THANKS TO ALL FOR YOUR "KINDNESS. " SEASON WITH GOOD HEALTH AND HAPPINESS ....... KATIE KATIE BUCHANAN P.O. BOX 3822 LAKE TAHOE, NV. 89449
PAGE 37... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GRAPEVINE (cont'd)
BEN YOUNG
Las Osos, CA
Dear Hank, Just a note while I am sending in my dues. Didi and I volunteered to handle the duties involved in the 1999 Wickenburg Seniors' Round Up. For those who have not been there, it is a beautiful ranch in the Old West. There are so many activities, golf, horseback riding, sightseeing and so much more. But the best part is seeing old friends and renewing old acquaintances. The dates this year are October 28, 29, 30. If any one has questions or comments contact us at 369 Travis Drive, Las Osos, CA 93402 or call 805-528-7193. Sincerely, Ben Young Ed's Note: Thank you Ben and Didi for volunteering to spend 25 or more hours a day setting up, et al, the 1999 Wickenburg Round Up. I know that to be one of the stellar TWA get-togethers. DENNIS VIED
Livermore, CA
Dear Phil, Enclosed is my membership fee for 1999. My directory listing shows F/O. It took me 27 years, and 12 years of furlough, although I only flew Captain for about 9 months before forced retirement but I MADE IT, so would you please show me as captain? I think everything else is the same. I took most of the year off after retirement for a nice vacation, my daughter's wedding, a couple of summer trips, one where I rented a 57 foot 1998 Navigator yacht out of Anacores and cruised the Canadian channel islands. (I wish I were a rich airline pilot so I could do that all of the time). I am now the Director of Operations for Scenic Air, an air tours operator based in SFO/OAK. I have also started an aircraft appraisal business on the side, and I plan to do some charter flying as the situation permits. Happy holidays to you and yours, Dennis Vied Ed's Note: To me, your letter Denny is the saddest I have ever put in this column. If I ever supported the demise of the age 60 retirement rule, I damned well do in your case. I've flown with Captains who were up graded within their first year; I had almost a year of "move-up Captain" as a EWR copilot; but you win the `misery index' prize in my book. Oh by the way, I suppose you have one helluva lot of "TWA Captain business cards" left, right?
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GRAPEVINE (cont ' d)
HOWARD HINCHMAN
Ridgewood, NJ
Keep up the good work - have to read TARPA TOPICS as soon as it arrives. Howard ROGER THORPE
West Lake Village, CA
Dear Phil, I am writing to you with a request. In the 1996 TARPA Directory I was listed as an Eagle but as William R. Thorpe. I haven't been known as William for 65 years - since when I was 14. We played a ball game for a barrel of beer and our team decided we would use our middle names. In our 1998 Directory, J. Edward Frankum and L. Dean Brundage were listed as I want to be listed. Since I have been told that in about another year my life expectancy would be two days (?) I would like my eulogy to be W. Roger Thorpe! No one among my friends would know me as William. Thank you for listening. Roger Ed's Note: Good to hear from you Bill, er, William. I know what you mean about names though. My English teacher asked me if my mother called me Henry when she was angry with me. I told her, "Every body calls me Henry when they are angry with me!" I'm sure Phil has already made a note to change your listing to what you wish it to be - for a long string of future directories. BOB ZIMMERMAN
Lakeside, CA
Dear Phil, Passed into the Eagle ranks 11-30-98. This happened by the passage of time, luck and perhaps some skill. I flew airplanes for 25 years, four navy and twenty one for TWA. For the past 25 years I have been self-employed tax practitioner, and since 1980, an enrolled agent. Please continue to bill me - I have no plans to retire and will try to make the year 2000 convention. Sincerely, Bob Zimmerman RICHARD CRUIKSHANK
Santa Ana, CA
Hi Phil, TARPA is great! Had to cancel out at Virginia Beach. I still see Ted Hereford twice a week. He still drives but will not go up in single engine airplanes. Shades of his Northrop days? Regards, Dick C
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GRAPEVINE (cont ' d)
LARRY FAUCI
Singer Island, FL
Enclosed besides this years' dues please find the change in area code for this part of Florida. While I really enjoy the many stories, I am still saddened to see so many of our dear friends listed in the Flown West Section. I guess those of us that sat around the watering holes of the Monte Estoril, Heliopolis Palace, Astir Beach Hotel and Ambassador Hotel are all thankful just to see again the decorated Christmas tree and our grand children bouncing around. I have been sorry to miss the last few TARPA conventions but this part time job of fire chief has been keeping me busier than when I was working. Someday I'll really retire. With Judy doing full time baby sitting for our grandson we really have to gab the time away when we can. I received another bit of sad news last October. Nicole Kappler wrote and advised us of Bernie's sudden passing while they were residing at their summer home in Normandy, France. Those of you who that have had the pleasure of flying with Bernie when he was F/E or IRO know what a knowledgeable and pleasant person he was. Thanks again for all the hard work you folks are doing. Larry J Fauci DICK ANDERSON
1000 OAKS, CA
Although being exempt I still consider this a pleasure to send the $30 as money well spent. Dick Anderson BOB KILIAN
Bend, OR
Dear Phil, I always look forward to the TARPA TOPICS and appreciate the effort that all of you contribute to it. Best wishes and hope 1999 is good to you in every way. Bob Kilian LOUIS BARR
Henderson, NV
As a member of the exalted group of TARPANS known as "Eagles" I know I'm not required to pay dues. However, the journal (TARPA TOPICS) is certainly worth every bit of the $30 so here is my contribution to TARPA. Sincerely, Louis Barr Ex-LAX F/E
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GRAPEVINE (cont ' d)
DON ANDERSON
Phoenix, AZ
Captain Phil Belisle, Sony I have never met you, but you sure do a wonderful job. I became 75 years young 6115/98. I still play at least 9 holes of golf twice a week and bowl once a week in the winter. Don Anderson Ed's Note: Don may be the first time I was able to use my bowler icon - thanks Don. Oh yes - be sure to keep those balls separated. I don't think you ever knock down all those pins with a golf ball and I know you could not get that bowling ball into a golf cup. And think about hitting it with a 2-wood! BOINNNNG! ELMO JONES
Pittsboro, NC
You guys do a wonderful job with TARPA. Don't spend this $30 all in one place. Elmo Jones CLIFF BRUCE
Scottsdale, AZ
Hi, Please use this money as needed for postage, etc. Yes, I see the "Exempt" however, there are always expenses in any organization. Best Regards Cliff Bruce ALICE STRICKLER
Saratoga, CA
Dear Phil, I am happy to pay dues to TARPA. Charlie was a staunch supporter of the organization. We attended the original birth of TARPA in Scottsdale. I enjoy receiving TARPA TOPICS and I especially enjoyed reading Karl Ruppenthal's recent article. He told it exactly like it was. Please carry on with your good work.
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GRAPEVINE (Cont 'd)
DOUG SHIFFLET
Montecito, CA
Hi Phil, I reached my sixty years in May 1978 and hung it up. Since then I'm certainly grateful to be a TARPA member. The jobs you many members have so generously taken on to keep TARPA afloat is greatly appreciated by the membership. I feel it is time to come forward and help defray the many expenses involved in keeping TARPA afloat. As an Eagle member I'm not required to pay dues but I'm going to relinquish that status and send in the annual dues. With kindest regards, Doug Shifflet You can ' t give up being an Eagle, Doug - we won't let you! JACK E CLARK
Springfield, MO
Just wanted to add my "e-mail address." Hope you and yours had a merry Christmas and have a great 1999. Though I made the big 75 this year I am enclosing my dues because the returns from TARPA make this a bargain. JCLARK@DIALNET.NET Jack Clark GEORGE TITTINGER
Hemet, CA
At $30 a "Best Buy." I want to wish you and yours a Happy and Healthy New Year with my thanks for your efforts and work on our behalf.
STEW GILBERT
Prescott, AZ
Even though this is not required now am enclosing this check in appreciation for all the work involved in putting together this fine publication. Best regards, Stew St. Petersburg, FL
WALLY MAZER
Enclosed are my annual dues. Thank you and all officers for doing a great job. Always look for "TARPA TOPICS " to arrive. Eagle or no Eagle it's worth it all. Wally Mazer
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' GRAPEVINE (cont d)
Cheyenne, WY
RAY CRAFT Hi Phil,
Better magazine than most I pay subscription for!! Glad to ante up!!! Ray Alameda, CA
VERONICA HIGGINS
Dear Phil, Here is a check for 1999 dues. I save all the old TOPIC's and enjoy rereading them. Thank everyone for me who work so hard putting it all together. Merry Christmas to all. Sincerely, Mrs. Veronica Higgins Towanda, PA
BOB SMITH Hi Phil,
Enclosed is $30 renewal check and the phone company gave us a new area code so now am: 570-265-0882. 1998 was a poor summer: developed lower back trouble but osteopath got that corrected. Left hip was the cause. The "Remove and Replace" fix was done 10/27/98 and I'm getting back to normal with my new "High Tech Hip!" I expect to be back to fishing, skeet, and trap shooting by April when the weather warms up here in northeast Penna. Sincerely, Bob Smith PS - Three degrees above zero this morning and geese have gone south! Ed's Note: Glad to hear you had the replacement hip surgery Bob. You listed the things you can be doing soon and I wonder if your doctor let you know what you shouldn't do with that new hip - things like: Washing dishes, dusting, grass cutting, snow moving. Boulder City, NV
RICHARD DAVIS
Thanks for being the Sec/Treas -- I'm enjoying double retirement, I turn 75 in January, so I'm not required to pay dues the year after. However if you are not Y2K ready, I suppose I'll owe dues for another hundred years!!!!!!!!! Dick Davis Ed's Note: Great Idea, that 100 years dues Richard! Hit the "UNDO" button Phil!
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GRAPEVINE (cont ' d)
BILL SAUERS
Fairfield, CT
Dear Phil, Retirement has overloaded me due to our selling our Beach House and our move to the next element - the SEA! We've long planned (7 years) our departure from the land and the air. Patty's still got her claws in the carpet, but women have a clinging nature to established styles. We moved our 53' Catamaran to Capto Cove Marina in Bridgeport, CT in preparation for our departure on our 10 year + / - venture through the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, the East Coast, and the Mediterranean. It was good practice for our bringing LUV CATS from Annapolis - thru the C & D canal, down the Delaware, up the Jersey Coast and best of all, through New York harbor. I finally got to see Miss Liberty up close - WOW! Hell's Gate was a non event at null tide, but we did linger a long moment under the approach to 22 at La Guardia but not too long - we have a 75' mast height. I'll get a computer soon and learn e-mail for up dates. Thanks, Bill Sauers RE-CAP of Non-TARPA COMING EVENTS
DATE
WHAT
WHERE
CONTACT
13 MAY 1999
TWA CREW MEMBERS GET TOGETHER
SANTA MONICA CA
Gil Davis gmd@gte.net Ted Price 805-650-9588
4 OCTOBER 1999 (tentative)
BEARLY OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT
LAKE QUIVIRA, KS
Captain Bob Beck 913-631-0616
28,29,30 OCTOBER 1999
WICKENBURG TWA SENIORS' ROUND - UP
WICKENBURG, AZ
Captain Ben Young 805-528-7193
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IN MEMORY OF BERNARD J. KAPPLER JULY 1, 1023 - AUGUST 17,1998 I lost an old friend on August 17th 1998 when retired Flight Engineer, Bernard J. ( Bud) Kappier passed away. I had known Bud Kappler since 1950. He had just checked out as Flight Engineer and was based in Chicago flying between there and Washington D.C. I was in TWA's maintenance at National Airport in D.C. He knew I had put in for F/E training with TWA and was very encouraging. When I checked out as a Flight Engineer and was based at LaGuardia Field he had transferred to the New York domicile as well. We both lived on Long Island and upon renewing our acquaintance, became good friends. I flew with him many times in the Connie days when we had mul-
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multiple crews on International. We went through 880 ground school together in 1961 spending many an evening rehashing the days instruction and then were paired on our check out flights in 1962. After checking out on the 707's we were back on International. I was an IRO so we flew together again for awhile, until he checked out as IRO. We went through 747 ground school and checkout together. Once again we flew together on the 747 since now he was an IRO and I was an F/E. After retirement we met at several TARPA conventions and Senior meetings where we would reminisce and talk about getting together, but never did. I last saw him at the TARPA convention in Boston in 1996. He and his wife Nicole, joined my wife, Vicki, and I for a lobster dinner in Cambridge. It was a great get-together. Happily, I didn't know then it would be the final one. Bud was an engineering student at New York University during W.W.II. He joined the Army Air Corps and was selected to be in a special group that were sent to Chicago University to study meteorology. After graduating_ in 1944 he flew for the Army Air Force (The name had been changed) as weather reconnaissance officer on RB-25's. They would make two flights a day and send back weather reports to be used by ATC. (Air Transport Command) On one of these flights he and his crew encountered a storm off Antigua BWI. They followed it for three days as it built into a hurricane. They even flew through the eye loosing an engine in the process! They managed to restart it and continued to track it. Hurricanes didn't have names assigned to them then. However the crew called it "Kappler's Storm!" The hurricane passed off the coast of Florida and a front page, three column write-up, in the Palm Beach Post on September 15th 1945 told of their " experience. The headline was: Weather Plane Battles Storm To Gain Data "Hurricane Hunters Find One, Then Stay To Send Reports Back; Battered Crewmen Nurse Bruises On Return To Field The article went on to describe how they stuck with it, flying into the eye. When the radio man tried to send reports back to the US the cockpit was full of electrical sparks due to lighting strikes hitting the antenna. There were times when the plane was uncontrollable due to the turbulence and they had lost an engine. The newspaper also called it "Kappler's Storm" Bud was honorably discharged in 1946. He resumed his engineering studies and after graduating he was hired by Pan American as an aeronautical engineer on the ground. Not being able to fulfill his love of flying in this job, he resigned and joined TWA to be a Flight Engineer in November 1949. Bud was a very caring person and spent his life helping other people around him, family, friends and neighbors who were in need. He is sorely missed by all. He leaves his wife Nicole and a son by Lew Judd Kevin by his deceased wife Rosemary.
IN MEMORY OF CAPTAIN WILLIAM M. FLANAGAN NOVEMBER 10, 1911 - MAY 7, 1998
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CAPTAIN JAY E. BRANDT JULY 3, 1920 - OCTOBER 26, 1998 A barnstorming pilot awakened Jay's love of flying when he came to his hometown of Jefferson, IA and gave him a ride. From then on, he pursued his dream, taking all of the government courses, etc. while he worked on the ticket counter in Dayton, OH. for TWA, then doing a stint with the Army Ferry Command before coming to work for TWA as a co-pilot. He saw many changes in airline flying, from the DC3, DC4, the Constellation, and finally, he checked out on the 727 and flew for a year before retiring after 30 years of flying. He became a Captain at the young age of 26. (Two of his sons felt like career co-pilots - finally making captain in their forties.) He went through his whole career without any accidents until one flight into St. Louis. He had "busted" his last check ride because he had neglected to use the recommended horse power and chose to use a lower one that he preferred. The Chief Pilot let him return if he promised to use the recommended horse power setting. When he landed in St. Louis on his very next trip, his engine was on fire and all of the emergency equipment were called out. He shot off a telegram to his Chief Pilot, "2800 horsepower, BAH! My first fire in 20 years!" The chief pilot read it at his 20th anniversary dinner. Shortly after becoming a captain, he became acquainted with Vincent Burnelli and. his "Lifting Body" design. After flying the CBY3, he became an enthusiast, promoting its superiority to almost anyone who would listen. He sometimes wished he had never been introduced to it, because, it was such a source of frustration. (It is interesting that now that Burnelli's patents have run out, the latest airplane designs use that very concept of the wide body, flying wing.) We moved to Florida in 1983 and not long after, he developed Parkinson's Disease and struggled by Sally Brandt with that until he died Oct. 26, 1998.
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CAPTAIN
LEROY
"ROY"
JOSEPH
GEISERT
MARCH 23, 1925 - SEPTEMBER 14, 1998 Roy was born in Williamstown, New Jersey He later attended Glassboro College then proceeded to receive his Masters Degree in Education from The University of Pennsylvania. He joined the Navy becoming a Naval Aviator flying the SB2C aboard the Carrier Leyte in the Mediterranean . Lt. Geisert then joined TWA spending his first year in Kansas City. The rernainder of his 34 plus year career he was based in New York. Roy flew most of TWA's airplanes including the DC-3, Martin, Connie, 880, 727, 707, and 747. He was a check airman for many of those years. In his leisure time Roy liked to hunt and fish , but most of all he pursued his love of flying most of the time in his beautiful Cessna 180. In the aviation community Roy was highly respected as a pilot's pilot, a good stick, a TWA Captain. He is survived by his wife Pat and three sons Doug, Carl, and Roy as well as 5 grandchildren. Roy and his wife Pat lived in Medford Lakes, New Jersey. Patricia Geisert served as a TWA by Clark Billie Cabin Attendant for 29 years.
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NORMAN L. SORENSEN AUGUST 18, 1923 - NOVEMBER 26, 1998 Norman retired to Scottsdale, AZ after years of service with TWA as a flight engineer and is survived by his wife Frances and daughter Pam Witzel.
LYLE N. LOCKE JULY 4, 1923 - DECEMBER 4, 1998 Lyle Locke Flight Engineer, died Friday December 4, 1998, after a short but courageous battle with lung cancer. He was born and raised in Palo Alto, California, and joined the Navy in 1942. He served as an aircraft mechanic until 1946 in both the US and Pacific theater's. In 1953 Lyle became a Flight Engineer for TWA. where he enjoyed a 32 year career. He loved playing golf, bowling, and his many friends. Lyle is survived by his wife Leslie, his sons Peter and David; step daughters Nancy Stauffacher and Carrie Groh; stepson Ken Stott; 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
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21 January 1999 John, I lad an c mail from F lank Gastrich that he had sent his stuff to you so I hope it is not too late for the enclosed and that you will see fit to print it. I always thought a lot of Floyd Valentine. Certainly appreciate the fine job you are doing for us. I should say jobs. The TOPICS is a fine publication. I'll het you didn't know you could handle it after having to listen to MacNab tell how much work it was. Enjoyed the reunion at Virginia Beach although I was not feeling great and ended up having a quadruple by-pass 27 October and recovering very well and feel fine. Our best to Pat I lope you and yours had a nice holiday season. Best regards,
This arrived just in time. I am sure everyone will be lad to hear your are recovering well. Editor Captain Floyd Valentine For the information of his many friends he is in a nursing home and his address is 1224 13th. Street NW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52405, Phone 319 365 9171. I am sure he would appreciate hearing from us. When I transferred from Kansas City to Newark in late 1949 it was like going to work for another company. At Kansas City if you wanted to trade a flight you had to go in, stand at attention and beg with the possibility of being turned down, at Newark Floyd told me anytime you want to trade a flight it is okay provided it is legal. Due to my mother's illness in North Carolina I went into the chief pilot's office in MKC and asked for a 90 day leave. I was told to put in a written request. At that time they were furloughing co-pilots. I sent in my written request and it was answered with a turn down. Floyd was a good pilot and good hearted. I was down at the airport for a while one day and Floyd had gone out to give a co-pilot his instrument check. Usually these rides were about a half hour to an hour but they were gone two hours. I suspected the co-pilot might be having trouble although I knew him and knew he was a good pilot. When they came in I asked Floyd why they were out so long and he said oh I just felt like instructing some. GBob uss told me once that Floyd had complained to him about something the pilots were doing that he didn't like and Bob said you're the chief pilot, why don't you do something about it? Floyd said do you want me to get in trouble with ALPA? Floyd's Secretary was a cute little girl named Grace Simpson from Jersey City although Grace said .Joisey lie was taking me out for an instrument check and he filled out the release form and as we walked by Grace's desk he threw it on the desk and said file this. She said Floyd come back here and give it to me like a gentleman so he did and handed it to her saying will you please file this? Ile was giving me a line check once in the Martin 404 and on taxi out the auto feathering feature didn't work so we went back and got it fixed and it checked okay. As I was taxiing out he reached up to check it again and I told him to leave it alone and let's get to Newark. He said don't you damn Southerners ever get excited about anything? Yes, Floyd was a good Chief Pilot and a pleasure to work for. I would say we were one happy little Family at little old Newark domicile. A.T.
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Humbles
G. Marvin Horstmann 215 Lido Drive Punta Gorda, Florida 33950 December 23, 1998 Capt John P. Gratz Tarpa Topics 1646 Timberlake Manor Pkwy Chesterfield,Mo, 63017 Dear Capt Gratz, I have just been reading the latest ( November ) Tarpa Topics...You gentlemen are doing a fantastic job..not only is it beautiful but interesting and fun to read about old friends and all. Just when I'm having fun I come to page 77..WOW My best girl and me on a motorcycle . That was a great evening and one I will never forget..reminded me of all of the great times at JFK with and because of all of you guys..wish we could do it again. Enjoyed the motorcycle a lot.Brought it to Florida and rode it with Jane for couple of years,Then Jane says I'm not going to ride it with you any more... so traded it for a Yellow MGB which I still have and thats the motorcycle now. Thanks to all for lots Have Great Holidays.. sincerely
Marv Hotstman
BELL, BUNK, & CANDLE by Charlie "Black Dog" Davis When the phone rang, Captain Charles Blakey's first reaction was a half-opened eyelid. By the third peal, he had checked the time, 07:30 A.M., noted his wife's disgruntled moan, as she stirred and twitched under the bedclothes, and established a pretty fair grip on the receiver. Schedule? Had to be, but what did they want? He had a regular Chicago turn, and wasn't due out for three days. Running out of reserves? Too bad. He clamped the receiver to an ear. "Hi. I can fill you with glee. " Captain Blakey recognized Gary Reardon's voice immediately. He was the senior schedule clerk, and even if his message didn't come through loud and clear, you couldn't mistake his penchant for unique delivery. His preamble varied considerably, and the gist of his initial pronouncement was ' usually more than a hint of a crewmember s impending fate: "Drear, very drear. Ah me. Your lovely last flight of the month canceled, a choice daytime excursion, and the only thing open is you guessed it, a red eye. No expletives, please, just OK it." And if the outlook was pleasant: 'Prepare to beam. Your flight is being utilized for a check ride, thus.. .A pay trip for you. Sing Hallelujah!" "Glee ? " "Indeed, no run-of-the-mill happening. Super manna has come your way. Prepare to be joyous. Captain Blakey hesitated a moment, then said, "Preparation is complete. Go.'
"
You have arrived. " "Great. Where am I?" You are settled snugly in the cockpit of a huge Constellation aircraft. It's a cargo version and you are proceeding non-stop to the East Coast. Captain Grey bid Cairo, and therefore a vacancy exists. By dint of seniority, You are next in line for this cherished item. Initial launch is tomorrow night, but must have a firm OK guarantying your presence here one hour before departure time, which is 2100." Captain Blakey produced two distinct "OKs", then added, "Got it! Got it!" A dream come true. The flight operated on weekends only, a Friday night departure, and a Monday night return. Deadheading home Saturday morning was no problem, and returning Monday to protect the return trip was likewise. In a way, it was almost like never leaving home base. Unable to control his delight, he began to dance around the room. Merely pirouetting about did not equate with his jubilance, so he began to sing. Many years before, while motoring along old Highway 66, he had become fascinated with Burma Shave ads, and had memorized many of them. One had been his favorite, and was easy to recall: "The answer to a maiden's prayer is not a chin
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of stubbly hair, use Burma Shave." Within a gap of seconds, his mind, now steamed up to it's highest voltage, produced his own personal rendition of the ditty, and he gave it his all: "The answer to a pilot's prayer is not a flight from here to there, soar shore to shore!" This odd disturbance had caused his wife to become fully aroused. Having tossed the covers aside, and struggled to an upright position, she was staring at him with a shocked expression. "Have you gone nuts? " , she was able to gasp out. "Yes! Crazy with joy! Wait'll I finish dancing and singing, and Ill tell you all about it!" Captain Blakey's enthusiasm on his first flight was boundless. It took over eight hours to span the continent, and he never stopped yaking about how incredibly fortunate the crew was to have landed such a jewel. Occasionally, Rob Peters, the copilot, and Tony Cox, the flight engineer, would exchange knowing glances. Both of them had been flying the weekend excursion for over a year. Once Tony murmured, "Wait 'till he's had about three westbounds." An hour after touchdown, Captain Blakey boarded a 707 and napped all the way to LA. Arriving at his house shortly after noon he discovered that he had enough vigor to play nine holes of golf. Another short siesta and he was ready for the evening activities. Sunday was wide open, and Monday an easy deadhead to protect the return flight. Hallelujah time indeed. A week later the jet stream moved down on the airway and the return trip took twelve hours. Captain Blakey began to look real hard at the two neatly made up bunks aft of the flight deck. Having flown DC-4s on the International Division, consistently at long range cruise, he was familiar with exhaustion in the cockpit, and would remember forever the voice of a hostess, one " dark night, with hours to go: "Do you think it's alright for all of you to be asleep? He would argue forever that it was safer to have one alert crewmember manning the flight than three half-conscious zombies. 'Bout time to give it some thought. On the third Monday night return trip Rob yawned, and fiddled with his computer. "Pittsburgh dead ahead, and with this hundred knot-plus headwind, I figure nine and a half to go. The yawning was contagious, and after Captain Blakey and Tony had stretched their mouths out of shape, there was a period of silence. Rob turned around and leaned back to where Tony was crumpled over the aircraft logbook. In a barely audible whisper he said, "Say it. Remember, I won the toss. Say it." Tony cleared his throat twice, loudly, then looking directly at Captain Blakey, said, "Grey used to rotate..." It was only part of the required statement, and Rob gave him a sharp look. "Rotate what?" "Bunk time." Tony said, and drew back in his chair. It was quiet for some time, and even the drone of the engines seemed to lessen. Vacating his seat, with noticeable effort, Captain Blakey headed aft with a parting, "Going to the head." On the way back he stopped and eyed the bunks, a lower and upper arrangement. For a moment
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he stared at the enticing bed articles, all neatly made up, the crisp white sheet, the coverlet folded down, and the fluffed up pillow. He blinked his tired red eyes and craved. To slip into that heavenly sack for a couple of hours or even one, and nestle his head against that divine pillow, would be rapture. Grey did it, Probably all of the captains, who had flown this fabulous flight, had done it. When he reached the cockpit, Rob's eyes were at half-mast. Tony's head was in a sag position, then suddenly it snapped back up. "OK," Captain Blakey said, with a tone of resignation. "OK, Tony, you're about to break your neck, so why don't you take a couple hours bunk time, then we'll start rotating." It was as if the cockpit had received a spray of amphetamine, and Tony and Rob had inhaled deeply. Rob sat up and began unbuckling preparatory to manning the engineer's station. Tony vaulted out of his chair and let out a, "Suits me." A couple of months went by, and Captain Blakey wasn't full of joy. When his turn came he'd close his eyes, but sleep wouldn't come. That is, until about ten minutes before his two hours was up. Staggering into the cockpit, he always felt worse than before rotation. The day they got back was shot, and it was spent napping, and groggily tending to household chores. He began thinking seriously of bidding back to a decent flight schedule and a normal sleep pattern. At the end of the month his crew came up with a jarring pronouncement. Both of them were upgrading. Now he'd have to break in a couple of guys he probably didn't even know, and who might frown on his routine. Chris Evans, his new copilot, was half his age, and he figured Carl Sills was even younger. On their first trip, when his eyelids began to droop, he disclosed flight rest procedure. He received a couple of nods and excused himself. As usual, he had difficulty losing consciousness, but finally drifted off. He was awakened by an urgent need to relieve himself, and realized he had not taken care of that item before hitting the sack. As he made his way to the head, he figured his allotted time remaining was probably only a few minutes. Curiously, he felt rested, and as he fumbled with the zipper, glanced at his watch, and stared in disbelief. The hands on the dial indicated that nearly five hours had elapsed since he had assumed a prone position. Forgetting about his need, he rushed into the cockpit where his boys, wide-awake and alert, were chattering away. "What happened to you guys?" he blurted out. "Aw," Chris began, half apologetically. "We're in good shape. We've been hashing it over. Don't think we'll go for any bunk time." On the return trip, he put it to them again. " Hey, it's only fair..." Carl interrupted, laughingly, with, " Captain, we're young, full of verve and even vigor. We don't require shuteye. Have at it. The sack is all yours."
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Heaven. When he crept out of the bunk, and stumbled into the cockpit, the Colorado River was passing beneath them. One hour after the aircraft was parked he was addressing a golf ball on the first tee. With so much rest, Captain Blakey regained his odd sense of humor. To get some laughs, he grabbed off one of his wife's nighties, and bought a night cap with a tassel. When he first appeared in the cockpit, sporting this outfit, Chris and Carl were convulsed with laughter, but as the month wore on it was, "Yeah, we 've seen it. You're lovely." He got some chuckles on a later trip when he made his appearance with a candle stuck in an ornate holder and brightly lit. Even this unique addition failed to evoke mirth after awhile. Rummaging through a trunk filled with party costumes, he found a pair of slippers, Turkish style, he figured, that were colorful, and turned up at the toes with tiny bells that tinkled when he walked. There was thigh-slapping laughter. Perhaps because of its significance, the fire bell was the loudest thing Captain Blakey had ever heard. It only took seconds for him to scramble up to the cockpit, grab his seat, and seize the controls. Chris had already feathered, and actuated one bottle. When the light stayed on, Captain Blakey reached up and let the second one go. It didn't go out, and turning to the flight engineer, he said, "Jump back in the cabin and take a look." When Carl returned the red light was out. He was shaking his head. "Was there a cowl on number three engine when we left the East Coast?" Chris picked up his mike. "We're about twenty minutes northeast of Amarillo. Want me to amend the clearance and alert the station?" " Why not." Captain Blakey said, feeling a sharp pang of disappointment that his recreational schedule was going to be disrupted. "I'll hang on to this thing until you get the check lists out of the way. What do you think? Shall I bother to change?" "Change." Chris said, eyeing the tassel dangling over the captain's face. Permission to land had been given, and they were approaching the downwind leg before Captain Blakey hurried back to the bunk area, hastily removing his night clothes on the way, and scrambled into his uniform. The crew had alerted the tower as to the reason for the unscheduled landing, and the fire trucks were standing by. They followed them to the ramp with red lights flashing. This abundance of activity had not gone unnoticed, and the ramp began to fill with a large assortment of airline employees; baggage handlers, ticket agents, operations personnel, and a bevy of mechanics, who were making a beeline for the number three power plant. Steps were in place, and the crew began making their descent to the ramp. They received not a glance. All eyes were directed to the damaged engine, a sight to behold. The cowl, as such, had been torched unmercifully, and there remained only a few jagged strips of charred metal forming an irregular pattern around the cylinders. The collector ring, or its remains, was no where in sight.
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The audience remained in a state of transfixion as the threesome moved in among them for a more advantageous view. A breeze had sprung up, and occasionally a slight gust would occur. There was dead silence until a vagrant zephyr whipped through, and a bell-like tinkle could be distinctly heard. Heads turned in various directions as some of the onlookers grew curious about the source of the strange sound. In a lowered voice, Tony said, "Captain, you still have those slippers on." Captain Blakey was staring straight down at his feet and seemed to be in a trance. The gusts picked up, and the tolling of the tiny bells became sharp and steady. Suddenly, the interest in number three had waned, and all eyes were fastened on the captain ' s footwear. He continued to stare straight down at his feet. Details of a happening on an airline, particularly where flight personnel are involved, rapidly transit the entire system to it's termini, in one might say, a jiffy. The crew deadheaded back the next morning, and Captain Blakey's mood was dire. Four things bugged him, lack of a decent night's sleep, no golf, the slipper thing, and loss of flight time. There were only two days left in the month, and he was coming up short. After a restless night, with many wakeful periods, which gave him ample time to curse his foul luck, the phone began ringing at 8 A.M. The response to his, "Hi," was a cheery " tinkle, tinkle, you know who, skipper. Going' to bat for you all the way, as usual. Round trip Kennedy, 1,300 ascent, twill round out your month nicely. Tinkle, man, tinkle." Dread. His mouth went dry, and his entire frame was subjected to a mild paralysis. Shock? His mind was far from numb, however. If Reardon knew, then the whole airline had it. This was confirmed when he arrived at Operations. It was like a debut, instant scrutiny, not too obvious, but Captain Blakey possessed exceptional periphery, and easily detected the swift, downward glances from the dozen or so personnel, who obviously and expectantly, had been awaiting his arrival. Quickly gathering up the clearance items, he noted the smug look the dispatcher was presenting him with. "Good morning, uh, Captain. No incidents this trip, eh?" There were a few subdued chuckles from some of the group as Captain Blakey headed for the exit. Reardon ' s office was adjacent to Operations, and as he opened the door, the clear chiming, of what probably was a dinner bell, issued from his quarters. Captain Blakey felt secure in the cockpit. He knew the copilot and flight engineer, and they both seemed ill at ease. That wouldn't do. "Look fellas, I know everybody's getting a charge over the incident, but I was only trying to get a laugh out of the boys, break the monotony, that is. When we got busy in the cockpit, I forgot to get rid of the damn things. So relax. It ' s probably already forgotten about." But it wasn't. Shortly after takeoff, two of the hostesses came up, and one leaned over and looked down at the captain's feet. She turned to her partner, with an air of disappointment, and said, "He's not wearing them."
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One hour out of LA there began a series of radio contacts from aircraft along their route that caused the captain to become very depressed. "Flight at three seven zero, could you give us your wind component?" The copilot transmitted some figures and the response was, "Roger, got it. Tinkle, out." "Any turbulence up there at that altitude? No? Tinkling right along, huh." The badinage was endless, and Captain Blakey was positive that ATC had gotten wind of it. A second after a position report was given, and acknowledged, a series of chimes were distinctly heard. The return trip was the same if not worse. Several times the transmissions from other flights were just laughter with "tinkle" thrown in along the way. Upon arrival in LA, Captain Blakey went directly to the employee parking lot and sped away. That night, nightmares descended upon him in the form of bells, clanging endlessly. The next morning he called the chief pilot's office and put in for early retirement.
THE "BALL" TURRET By Charlie "Black Dog" Davis First Lieutenant Mel Dixon's eyes popped open at 4:20 A.M., sharp. He didn't start up or sit bolt upright. What he did was twitch, his whole body contracting slightly, including his head. The others in the barracks were more demonstrative upon awakening suddenly or being awakened. All of them started up or sat bolt upright. Briefing for a mission was usually at 5 A.M. and the crews were aroused an hour earlier by a person with a flash-light who went from bed to bed blinding the occupant with the beam and shaking him awake. Mel had never seen him.
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His brain was slow in getting it together but he knew that as soon as the door latch clicked his noodle would come full register. The target was never disclosed until briefing took place but his navigator had ruminated the night before that it was about time for a Regensburg hop. Some minutes had passed (the dreadful wackier-upper was never late) and he drew his wristwatch out from under layers of blankets (it was January) and gazed at the luminescent dial, 4:20. He did start up slightly then as reality came suddenly into being. There was no alert, no mission. Actually, it was his squadron's once a month, Saturday night party, at the officer's club. He breathed a relaxed sigh and settled back in his nest. Filled with relief at not having to spend the day being shot at and able to sleep in as late as he pleased, he began to dwell on the slumber characteristics of his barracks bud dies. All of them slept in the fetal position and not in a relaxed way. Their bodies were drawn up in a coil and a hand was thrust between the thighs and covering the family jewels. (Mel had observed this on warm summer nights when sheets and blankets were tossed aside.) Nocturnal noises were continuous throughout the night. Snoring was prevalent on a regular basis and if a mission was scheduled the normal rhythmic tempo was stridently interrupted by a series of loud, staccato snorts. The breaking of wind was prevalent all the time and therefore warranted only a casual, pointed remark unless someone performed in an unusually loud or extravagant manner. There was, however, a once a week item on the bill of fare that if consumed to even a moderate degree, resulted in the individual giving a remarkable flatulent rendition. The item was "C" rations, a conglomerate of stale vegetables and questionable ground meat. Hundreds of cans of the muck were pried open and emptied into a huge vat that was on a burner all day long and available in any amount. Mel was aware of it's combustive properties and never over indulged. Those who downed large amounts kept the barracks awake all night and he wondered what kept their colons from shredding. Talking in one's sleep was commonplace but the delivery was mostly a babble and Mel attributed this to the desperate state of mind of all combat crewmembers. One melancholy note was a whimper that could be heard, during the night, before a mission. He had no idea who the person was and no crewmember ever brought it up. It was too close to home. A gentle but firm nudge did awaken him and when he peeled back his eyelids he saw Major Benton, the squadron CO, peering at him. "You got transportation duty and it's going on nine o'clock. Better get at it." It was no big deal. Drop down to the motor pool and requisition busses that would be dispatched for an early evening foray into the local hamlets to recruit females for the Saturday night function.
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There was a plethora of these and Mel, having been assigned this duty many times before had concocted a list of the most desirable and the most willing. Right after lunch operations caught up with a brand new B-17 sitting on the ramp. "That has to be test flown and your it." Mel pulled his squadron CO's rank and said, "It's our squadron party tonight and Major Benton in charge of picking up the gals. If I'm late ..." The captain interrupted him. "You won't be. The rest of the crew's at the airplane. Take it up to 25,000 feet, check the oxygen, feather a prop and shoot off the guns. Should be back in an hour." The allotted time the captain had guessed at was right on as Mel eased the big ship up to the main hangar a tractor at the ready to tow it inside for servicing. With one hamlet to go and only lacking one girl to satisfy the quota, Mel decided to go stag for the present occasion. In just one month the 'quality" had declined noticeably. The attractive ones were skipping out for London. And why not? The action was where the troops were and R&R's flooded the hotels and clubs and. had poundage to burn. The cagey babes got their share. At the beginning of the evening the impression given was almost that of a formal gathering. There was a good deal of restrained conversation and the dance floor remained empty in spite of the little band striving mightily to induce the couples to step out. One hour later the scene had changed dramatically. Everybody was smashed and the dance floor was a mass of jitterbugging humanity. At midnight the band stopped playing. Their efforts had been more or less ignored from the time the headquarters brass had departed. Nearly all the couples were locked in some sort of amorous embrace and there was a sense of urgency prevailing. Mel was seated at the bar nursing a Scotch and seriously considering bidding a fond adieu to the revelers when Major Benton collared him and gave a direct order, groggily, but to the point. "Get your butt movin' and go find a couple of empty barracks." Mel scurried around the compound but in minutes was back with bad news. "Sir, all the barracks have crews that are alerted for a mission." Major Benton's features registered a noticeable degree of acute disappointment, but he was able to pass the miserable communique around and there was desperation in the eyes of the Romeos and most of the Juliets. A bizarre thought occurred to Mel. Addressing the major directly he told him about the afternoon test flight. "It's parked in a hangar about a half a block away."
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The major picked up on it immediately and the possibilities were passed around. Nearly all of the couples decided to give it a try and Mel and the other bachelors were assigned the task of sneaking into barracks to pilfer blankets for the clandestine effort. The couples reached the hangar some minutes before the blanket bearers and a loud clamor could be heard from some distance away. When Mel stepped inside he discovered that everyone was arguing over which section of the aircraft would be theirs. Major Benton yelled out a loud, "TEN-HUT!" to stop the bickering and presented an idea that Mel thought was very fair. Different sections of the fuselage would be allotted to couples according to their size. There was instant grumbling from those of short stature but when another, "TEN-HUT!" was delivered there was silence and some of the men attempted a sagging upright position. All the couples were lined up in a column facing the major who stood several rungs up on a ladder so he could accurately estimate sizes. Mel was designated as an usher and would remember distinctly and forever how the lovers were assigned and their physical arrangements. COCKPIT: Two couples, medium short, straddle position. TOP TURRET: One couple, tallest, erect. NOSE SECTION: (room with a view) Two couples, medium tall, prone, snuggled. BOMB BAY: Two couples, tall, reclining. RADIO ROOM: Four couples, medium to short, all positions (later designated, OCTUPUS ROOM). WAIST SECTION: Four couples, side positions, spoons. BALL TURRET: Shortest couple, coiled. TAIL GUN SECTION: One couple, in a position you don 't want to know. Mel departed from the waist exit and noted that there were more oofs, grunts and curses than sounds of carnal pleasure. The major had designated him as lookout and his post was the cab of a GI truck facing the lane leading to the hangar area. He had brought some "rations" and even though a jealous pang was present at not being amongst the merrymakers, it was pleasant sitting up high in the cab, sipping and dwelling on the ingenious idea he had come up with. His buddies, and perhaps others, would be forever grateful. Occasionally he would descend from his perch and make his way to the hangar, quietly enter and listen to the sounds. They were still the same as before though now and then mingled with a strangled cry that could have been male or female. On his fourth trip and possibly due to the steady consumption of "rations", his eyes became heavy lidded and feeling secure that no one would be about at this hour, he pulled up a chair and tilted it against the wall of the hangar. He was about to doze off, in spite of the clamor
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issuing from the fuselage, when something unusual about the ball turret caught his attention. He thought briefly of the flight test that afternoon. Props had been feathered, the radar checked, bomb bay doors opened and closed and all guns fired. Immediately after landing he had parked at a hardstand where all the armament was supposed to have been removed and carted away. Rising unsteadily from his chair Mel took some tentative steps toward the waist section of the B-17. The fumes, which had accumulated in his brain, began to evaporate. Instead of a smooth round orb hanging from the belly, two lethal looking snouts protruded horizontally from the turret. Close to sober now, he thought instantly of two things. Had the ammo been removed? Was there electrical power to the turret? If so, and the guns were still armed, they were ready for firing. Incased with his companion was a bombardier who knew nothing about turret operation. Mel moved swiftly to the waist entrance with only one thought in mind, getting the lovers out of whatever position as quickly and carefully as possible. He had barely pulled himself through the _opening when there was a sudden howl from the turret followed by a gasp, then a cry punctuated- by a series of gagging sobs. Mel hesitated. This was a crucial moment. Any sudden thrust of a limb or part of one could actuate a switch or a lever and cause the guns to start firing. Also, his sudden appearance staring down into the abyss of love might cause some inadvertent movement. It didn't matter. As he started struggling over bodies the guns began chattering and moving in full circle. They were pointing downward a few degrees and would probably stay that way, he hoped. Instantly the interior of the fuselage became bedlam and Mel was pushed out into space and landed on the hangar floor. Vaulting effortlessly up onto the horizontal stabilizer he started yelling for everybody to stay put. It wasn't necessary to repeat the command. Heads were popping out of every opening and it was obvious that anyone traipsing around at floor level would lose stature. The walls of the hangar were constructed of heavy wooden planking as was the huge hangar door and the fifties were shredding them about two feet above the floor. Penetration didn't matter. There was a five-foot thick revetment of solid concrete butted up against the building and it ran across the front with enough of a gap to allow the big airplane to be towed in. Some destruction was going on inside, however. Cabinets and table legs disintegrated into powder and the plane's undercarriage was taking a beating but the oddest assault was upon a big stepladder. Bullets tore into the legs and ripped sections of them off but it never toppled, just kept getting shorter. The fusillade lasted five minutes before the ammo ran out and during that time it was a tossup as to whether the loudest racket came from the drumbeat of the fifties or the screams issuing from the interior of the aircraft. When it stopped there was dead silence for maybe fifteen seconds then the damndest scramble of human beings ever. They shot out of every door and hatch and sped for the hangar exit, most of them half-naked, the rest with clothes in hand streaming behind them. The most unusual evacuation was from the bomb bay. The doors slowly opened and the two couples spilled to the floor
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In less than a minute there wasn't a soul within two hundred yards of the hangar. The odd thing was that no one came running. Mel was leading the troops in a race for the barracks while the women all made a beeline for the busses. Slithering into his bunk fully clothed, shoes included, Mel clamped his eyes shut and waited for the base to explode. It didn't. Just before sunup and still awake, he heard some trucks roll by and could only assume that since headquarters and the M.P. station were over a half mile from the insulated hangar, the racket inside was muffled. Later in the day, via the grapevine, he learned that the CO and his staff had decided to keep the "incident" under wraps, which seemed practical. If knowledge of this "happening" was to reach a command echelon, it would precipate an immediate and thorough investigation. Gold and silver leaves would fall, and even a bird might flutter to the ground. When Mel finished his tour, and was departing the base, his last stop was the hangar. Peering into the cavernous interior, he spotted a sturdy stepladder with very short legs, a symbolic reminder of that memorable night. For a few seconds that horrendous scene appeared before his eyes. The twin fifties were chattering away, and objects in the line of fire were turning into trash. The vision faded, and Mel glanced once more at the crippled ladder, then stepped away.(This is a true story.)
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Champion's Record- Setting Cross-Country By
Ona Gieschen The passing of Gene Autry prompts me to write a few lines about one of our most popular photographic displays. Shortly after I agreed to "do" the museum, Don Cornwell brought in, among other memorabilia, a couple of negatives. I quickly scanned them, noticed a horse and a couple of people in cowboy hats and put them in the "to do if and when time permits" file. Now really, what do horses and cowboys have to do with a "propeller driven airline museum"? After a few prompts from Don as to when we might see these pictures displayed I took a second look, saw an airplane door, also noticed that the woman wearing the cowboy boots and the ten gallon hat also had on a late 30's TWA hostess uniform. I immediately had Warren print, enlarge and mount the photos. While I'm not too good at recognizing horses, I do know cowboys. It is indeed Gene Autry, and of course if it is Autry it has to be Champion. On close examination the airplane turns out to be a TWA DC-2. So how did this strange combination come about? Friends from one of the local museums steered me to Kimberly Balcom, Assistant Librarian of the Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum in Los Angeles for enlightenment . She identified the photos to be from the TWA flight Champion took across the country in 1940. TWA agreed to fly the horse so that he and his owner could both get from California to New York for a scheduled rodeo appearance two days after they finished filming a movie in Hollywood. Champion thus became the first horse on record to make a coast-to-coast cross-country flight. Many of our museum guests tell us great background stories about our displays. In 1940, John E. Guy, TWA Engineering employee, was in Los Angeles acting as liaison between Lockheed and TWA in developing the "Connie." He was asked by Jack Frye to take a piece of plywood and cut out a replica door of the DC-2 so Champion could practice getting in and out of the plane. Johnny also developed a tin trough for Champion's bathroom needs. Another museum guest, a Gene Autry historian, told me that the agreement to transport Champion took place at a Hollywood party. Gene Autry and Jack Frye were both guests at the party and Autry was bemoaning the fact that he had only two days to get himself and his horse to New York. Frye said not to worry, or words to that effect, that TWA would fly them there. A few days later Autry, realizing that they had both been in their "cups" at the time and that the offer might have only been "martini" talk, called Frye and asked him if he indeed was going to fly them. Frye assured him that the offer stood.
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We, at Save A Connie's Air Museum are very proud to display and explain this interesting moment from the Golden Age of airline history. However, we seldom know so much about an exhibit that we don't want to learn more–and this one is no exception. Therefore, I would like to close with a question for our readers. Can any of you tell me the names of any of the TWA crew members on Champion's record setting cross-country? Ona Gieschen - Save A Connie Museum
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The Birth of the Connie by Karl M. Ruppenthal We awakened to a cool but invigorating morning in Washington, D.C. Jack Blackburn, a professional sea-going navigator, had recently joined Vern Lowell, Charlie Strickler, and me in our rooming house on one of the main streets of Alexandria, Virginia. Wartime housing was tight, and we were fortunate to find rooms in an old Victorian house, conveniently located on the bus route to the new Washington National Airport. (The bus fare was five cents.) It was a special day for the ICD. (Except in private conversations with other TWA employees, we were not supposed to use its full name -- Intercontinental Division -- because it might give a important information to the enemy.) We had all been invited to the new FAA buildings atop hill near Hangar #1, headquarters for the ICD. We were to hear from Jack Fry himself, the legendary president of TWA. Frye was an impressive speaker. that its destiny was to lead the was not by coincidence that when a certainty that the plane would
He was a visionary. He believed that TWA had a destiny, and world of commercial aviation. Clearly TWA bore his imprint. It an airplane was shown in a movie in those days, it was all but display TWA's colors. Frye had good connections.
It was a short walk from the hangar to the brick colonial structures -- the new (and almost vacant) FAA buildings adjacent to the new and hardly-used National Airport. As we walked, we heard the usual company gossip. Security was to be tightened. Otis Bryan, head of the ICD had taken a taxi from the airport to a hotel with another ICD official . They had talked about some plans. But the listening taxi driver was no ordinary driver. He was an FBI official, detailed to discover possible leaks. It was wartime, and leaks could be lethal. Both were scolded and reminded to watch their speech. Jack Frye was eloquent. He told us many reasons why TWA was the world's foremost airline: We shared a vision with the legendary Lindbergh. We had been pioneers in many areas. We helped develop the Link Trainer, precursor to the simulator. We were first to advertise non-stop flights, coast to coast. (He did not mention the unmentioned fact. While our Boeing Stratoliners could normally make it non stop from Los Angeles to New York, they regularly needed a Kansas City "technical stop" for fuel on the westbound journey.) He reminded us that TWA was then the only airline with 4-engine equipment. We had all of the world's Stratoliners -- five of them. Six of them had been built, but one of the iced up when Howard Hughes was flying it. He landed without personal injury in a corn field, but the plane itself was a wash out. It was never rebuilt. Those five stratoliners were the rationale for the ICD's contract with the then Army Air Corps. (The Air Force per se had not yet been born.) Only TWA had the airplanes and the experience that could traverse the Atlantic. Other carriers, with their DC-3's fed cargo, mail, and personnel to us in Natal, Brazil, from whence we took it to Ascension Island, Accra, Cairo, Karachi, and other distant war zones.
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Frye had an exciting message for us. He told us of his plans, and those of Howard Hughes, TWA's financial backer, to steal a march on the industry. They dreamed of an aircraft that could truly fly non stop from coast to coast. It would be fast. It would be pressurized. It would be able to fly above the clouds, thus avoiding thunderstorms and ice that bedeviled the airlines and their schedule reliability. And it would be a TWA exclusive. "We talked it over with Donald Douglas," said Frye. "Everyone knew that Douglas built the best airplanes in the world." They talked for sometime. Hughes had very definite ideas as to the plane' s design. Douglas had some others. "Eventually Hughes got mad," said Fry. "We stalked out and went immediately to see Lockheed. When Lockheed agreed with the plans Hughes had sketched, we made a deal. Until we got all of them that we wanted, TWA would have an exclusive on the plane. Hughes considered calling the plane 'The Excalibur, but then changed his mind. It became, instead, the Constellation -- arguably the most graceful airplane ever built. TWA would indeed have been the unquestioned world leader in aviation. It was several years before Douglas was able to get its four engine competitor into the air -- the DC-4. But the war thwarted Hughes' plans. As soon as a Connie rolled off the production line, the military took it for its own. Some were assigned to the ICD, some to competing users. Had it not been for the war, for a year or two TWA would have been the only air line with four engine planes and the only one with coast to coast non-stop capabilities. And that was the birth of the Connie. It made Lockheed a real factor in the commercial air line business. And it set TWA apart from its erstwhile competitors.
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The City of Columbus has Disappeared ! by Dick Davis Back in 1995, in the March issue of TARPA TOPICS, I wrote an article about a TWA Martin 404, N40409 located at the Southern Nevada Vocational Training Center, Henderson, NV. It had been donated to the school by a company that had been flying its employees to the Nevada atomic test site, and flown in on a dirt strip that no longer exists Recently I noticed it was no longer in sight from the highway, so I returned to the school to determine its fate. Mr. Dan Berg, who originally granted me access to the airplane and all its records told me the aviation maintenance course was no longer active at the school, and the airplane had been removed during the summer of 1996. No one at the school knew how it had been removed nor where it went. Now a twenty ton, forty passenger airplane with no runway available, does not go away by itself, so I started searching for it. The purchasing department for the county school district was very helpful. They provided the name of the woman who purchased it, her address and phone number in Palmdale, California. The woman that answered identified herself as the mother of the lady I was attempting to contact, and when I told her what I was searching for, she was astounded. Stated I was crazy ! "There was no way her daughter could or would buy any airplane". She admitted I had the right name and number, and was going to talk to her daughter "about this". So far no return call. Next, a trip to the Boulder City Airport, NV, where I was further referred to the Chino Air Museum, CA. They referred me to the Aviation Warehouse at El Mirage, CA and then to the National Aircraft College in Long Beach, CA.. That outfit did indeed know the airplane. They had been contracted to disassemble it. The horizontal stabilizers and vertical fin had been removed, along with the engines, which were destined for restored WW2 fighters. The wings, sadly, were cut off. The whole thing was trucked out (company unknown) and he believed it was going to Bakersfield, CA. I contacted almost all the trucking companies in Bakersfield without results. If you are wandering around the southwest and see parts of a tan and red 404, let me know. Meantime, "The City of Columbus" has disappeared !
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A DAY AT DUXFORD By John P.Gratz The Story, "Ball Turret" by Black Dog prompted us to search for suitable photographs and graphics to enhance the appearance of the story. We do this for every story sent for publication in TOPICS, unless photographs are included in the submission. In this case, the review of B-17 archives made me think of the stories, less humorous, of two of my special TWA friends which have been recorded in great detail in books. The first of these stories is "Off We Went---into the wild blue yonder" by and about the experiences of Barney Rawlings. It tells about the very real hazards of being shot down, surviving a crash landing, hiding and escaping by walking from Belgium to Spain. The other story was included in the book " Aircraft Down". That story chronicles the long difficult and dangerous tale of Rich Flournoy and his crew. They too were shot up and forced to land on the Island of Corfu. From there, they wandered and suffered their way through Yugoslavia and Greece before they were rescued. While these, and all the other great stories of World War II were being lived, I was just getting ready for High School. Naturally, I followed the progress of the War from Pearl Harbor to the decks of the Battleship Missouri in the newspapers, in the newsreels, at the movies, and in Life Magazine. Two years after High School I could be found wandering around in Louisiana, North Carolina, Texas, Florida and Oklahoma as a member of the Air Force. I learned from his book, that Barney Rawlings began his active service at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri in 1941. I followed his path through Jefferson Barracks ten years later. When I was in my early years with TWA, many of the Captains were also veterans, and told stories too numerous to recall. I do remember one now, that Al Huttenberg was on the deck of the Battleship Nevada at Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941! So, you can see that I was being impressed by those stories before Stephen Ambrose had a clue, and before Stephen Spielberg was born. This led me to become an easy mark when I received the solicitation to support the American Air Museum in Britain about four years ago. The Museum was to be constructed at Duxford Airfield, which is also home to some aircraft of the Imperial War Museum. Since then, I have continued to make modest contributions. That made me one of several thousand "Founding Members". It didn't seem like much but, one day I received an invitation to the "Official Opening Ceremony 1 August 1997 by Her Majesty the Queen". That was nice, but I did not think it
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was worth the trouble to attend. That was until I told my British friend and former neighbor in France, Chris Watts. He gave me lots of patriotic and historic blarney about my duty to all those great men of WWII and on and on, but what really persuaded me was his offer to act as my personal chauffeur. Our journey began from his home in Apremont, France. We took the AutoRoute's through Northern France, then under the waters of La Manche, as they call the English Channel in France. It was my first Chunnel experience. It was fast and efficient and it took only about 25 minutes. We then sped through the green fields of Kent and East Anglia along the British Motorways, which I can assure you, was more relaxing with Chris, the native, doing the driving. He says he likes it. We arrived in the Duxford, Cambridge area in the evening before the Ceremony. We looked for a place to have fish and chips. No luck When we arrived at Duxford Airfield next morning, it was raining in a most unpleasant way but, as the time for the Queen's arrival approached, it sort of cleared up. At least the rain stopped. A crowd of about five thousand or so, mostly older than Chris and me, and clearly true veterans of World War II assembled in front of the very beautiful Museum. We were all treated to a Band Concert as a sort of overture. The Queen and her entourage soon arrived in her personal BA-146 aircraft. The Royalty, the Military Brass of several Allied Services, the Secretary of the USAF, the American Ambassador, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Moses himself, Charlton Heston, was way more important people than one could be with and not be just a little impressed. The speeches were another thing. You know, nice but speeches nonetheless. Speeches are like drinking whiskey, a couple is OK, but more than that can give you a headache. The ceremony ended with an extended flyby, which included a B-17 and several P-47s, P51s, Spitfires and Hurricanes. The finale was a flyby of USAF F-15 Eagles or F-51s as Charlton Heston called them. Oh well. If you are visiting Britain sometime, you should take the time to visit the American Air Museum at Duxford. It is a truly impressive building in terms of architecture but, the thirty plus military aircraft arranged inside can not fail to arouse feelings of nostalgia and pride in those of our countrymen who flew them to protect our way of life. One thing really surprised me inside the Museum. There is a library containing many pieces of memorabilia, books, paintings and displays indicating which units were where all over Britain during the war. There is even a big book containing the names of we founding members, but the thing that surprised me was that the Library was named "The Georgia Frontiere Library"! As Goodman Ace used to say, you could have knocked me over with a fender. Georgia is a local gal who married into the Los Angeles Rams Family and is now the owner of that anything but redoubtable group, the St. Louis Rams. When I returned to St. Louis, I wrote to her out of curiosity about her involvement with that grand enterprise at Duxford. After some time without a reply, I asked mutual friends for help. I have never gotten an answer. I'll just have to live with that mystery. As I said before, and will again, this Museum is well worth a side trip, and it is only about forty miles north of London.
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OTHER INSURANCE OFFERED THROUGH RAPA For information, pricing or to enroll on other insurance offered through RAPA, call Rosy Fernandez at (800) 314-1860 extension 5919 now. 1 2 3 4 5 6
Delta Dental Plan - Next enrollment period is April 1 - 30. Pharmacy Benefit Card (PSG) - Next enrollment period is April 1 - 30. Cost is $10 per peron per year. Discount Vision Services (LENSCRAFTERS) - Next enrollment period is April 1 - 30. Cost is $10 per person per year. Hartford Medicare Supplement Coverage. Group Cancer Policy. Travel and Home Accident Policy.
In early 1997 Alexander & Alexander became part of AON Corporation. Our insurance consultants Howard Wincele and Sonia Blumenthal now have an office with AON CONSULTING in Miami, Florida. Ms. Rosy Fernandez is available on a daily basis to handle problems for RAPA members. Please note the new address and phone numbers below:
Movie Stars at MKC arriving on TWA sleeper DC-3 ca. 1940. Note the two small windows ,for the upper berth. Photograph by Bill Dixon. Can you name the stars?
PAGE 75... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (E) ABBOTT 925-837-9532 (R)ADAMS 253-853-4171 (R)ANDERLE 937-848-4526 (R)ANDERSON 805-647-1499 (E) ANDERSON 805-498-3093 (E) ANDERSON 760-346-1832 (R)ARENAS 847-398-1331 (R)ARMANI 561-283-1520 (E) AUSTIN 775-746-1 360 (E) SAAR 480-998-7910 (R) BAKER 480-991-5441 (R) BAKER (R) BALSER 480-860-2877 (A) BARRIER 805-497-1561 (H)BAXTER 480-596-9374 (A)BECKNER 407-254-5508 (R)BENHAM 408-268-3030 (S)BERG 816-741-9350 (R) BERGDAHL 949-760-6563 (R)BERRY 941-346-2153 (A)BERRY 307-367-6374 (A)BEZMAREVICH 925-830-1600 (R)BIERMANN 501-922-5264 (R) BILLINGSLEY 925-837-2765
Sam
F / E (SUE)
C. Edwards Capt. (DEANIE) legalav8r@aol.com Robert A. Capt. Les
Capt. (SHIRLEY)
Richard F. Capt. 150@aol.com rfaat1 Thomas W. Capt. (VIRGINIA) Fred Capt. (JUDY) arenas@yahoo.com Ronald T. Capt. (JEAN) mdraja@aol.com Fred L. Capt. (JOYCE) Rutland F.
Capt. (LUCIENNE)
Charles R.
Capt. (MARLENE)
Richard S. Capt. (LILLY) rsbkr@aol.com Bob G. Capt. (JACQUELINE) Phil Capt. philin@aol.com Mrs. (FERRELL L.) Roberta Richard R. Capt. (CONNIE) twacap@metrolink.net Myron G. Capt. (VIOLETTE) buzzandvi@msn.com Warren H. M r. (GENEVIEVE) warrenberg@compuserve.com Paul J. Capt. (MARLENE) Charles A.
Capt. (DORIS)
James L. Capt. (CONNIE) jberry@coffey.com Capt. (MERRIE-ANN) Rudy zax@copuserve.com Allan H. Capt. (GLADYS) allanb@cswnet.com Kenneth O. Capt. (DOROTHY) kobdcb@worldnet.att. net
29 Meese Dr. CA 94526 Danville, 7512 Stanich Ave. Suite Two WA 98332 Gig Harbor, 1706 N. Belleview Drive OH 45305-1303 Bellbrook, 1554 Carson Way CA 93004 Ventura, 1150 Calla Arroyo CA 91360-2308 Thousand Oaks, 46-205 Portola Ave. # D CA 92260 Palm Desert, 1622 W. Canterbury Ct. I L 60004 Arlington Hts. 3153 S.w. Montebello PI. FL 34990 Palm City, 1880 Terrace Heights NV 89523 Reno, 8037 E. Del Platino AZ 85258 Scottsdale, 8208 East Redfield Rd AZ 85260 Scottsdale, P 0 Box 5738 NM 87502-5738 Santa Fe, 12595 Silver Spur St. AZ 85259 Scottsdale, 1918 Oberlin St. CA 91360 Thousand Oaks, 11226 N. 75th St. A Z 85260 Scottsdale, 857 Oakwood Dr. Melbourne, 5992 Dry Oak Court San Jose, 8200 N W Oregon Drive Kansas City, 900 Almond Place Newport Beach, 8735 Midnight Pass Rd. Sarasota, P 0 Box 1697 Pinedale, 100 Posada Ct. San Ramon, 6 Magellan Ln Hot Springs Village, 868 Diablo Road Danville,
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FL 32940-1785 CA 95120-1781 MO 64151 CA 92660 FL 34242 WY 82941 C A 94583 A R 71909-7143 CA 94526-2760
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (R)BJORK 253-549-2110 (E) BLANEY 724-463-7598 (R) BOYCE 203-393-1225 (E) BRADFORD 407-546-1713 (R) BR ENNAN 650-329-1755 (R) BROWN 904-788-5435 (E) BRUCE 480-947-6414 (E) BUCK 802-496-3779 (R) BUDZIEN 520-742-3871 (R)BULLOTTA 610-793-1443 (R) BUNDY 954-563-0176 (R) BURGESS 314-949-6797 (S)BURKE 602-546-4490 (A)BURNETT 314-947-7185 (H)BURT 805-595-2116 (E) BUTLER 480-860-1571 (E) BYARD 805-527-3755 ( A) CALLA MARO 480-998-5670 (A)CALLIHAM 913-631-5660 (E) CANTRELL 785-749-5545 (R)CARLSON 480-991-9061 (A)CARLUCCI (R)CARR 816-741-5633 (A)CARTER 805-884-1024
Clifford A.
Capt. (JAUNITA)
Ford
Capt. (JANE)
John R. Capt. (LISABETH) jboyce@snet.net Gerard Capt. (BEVERLY) Mike Capt. (COLIENNE) cbrennan1@aol.com David A. Capt. (JACQULYN) djb2222@webtv.net Clifford A. Fro (CATHERINE) Robert N. Capt. (JEAN) bbuck@togetnev.net Ward C. Capt. (MURIEL) Tony Capt. fax 610-793-2111 Peter N. F I 0 (LOIS) Donald R. Capt. (DEBORAH) adventurers@worldnet.att.net E. Paul Mr. (TALLY) paultally@ prodigy. net Ron Capt. (GLORIA) ronburnettl@compuserve.com Sally Vance Mrs. (HOWARD) Lemaurls Capt. (JEANNE) lebutle@aol.com William K. F / E (FRANCES) John R.
Capt. (PATRICIA)
Max Capt. (PAT) ttater@msn.com Warren Capt. (DORIS) R. J. Capt. (JILL) rcar371247@aol.com Raymond Iro (ROSELLA) William G. Capt. (MARTHA) bilicarr1 @ prodigy.com Nick Capt. (PAT) carter000@aol.com
631 9th Ct. WA 98333-9669 Fox Island, 113 Georgetowne Village PA 15701 Indiana, 103 Peck Road CT 06524 Bethany, 6980 S.e. Constitution FL 33455 Hobe Sound, 22 Lioyden CA 94027 Atherton, 34 Lazy Eight Drive Rt# 1 FL 32124 Daytona Beach, 8720 E. Jackrabbit Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85250-6734 P 0 Box 689 VT 05660 Moretown, 670 W Golf View Dr. AZ 85737-9133 Tucson, 1061 Lyme Court PA 19382-2015 West Chester, 3333 N.e. 34th St. Apt # 1602 FL 33308 Ft. Lauderdale, 8 Newcastle Ct MO 63301 St. Charles, 14210 Summerstar Dr. AZ 85375-5246 Sun City West, 2949 Westerland Dr. MO 63301 St Charles, P. O. Box 2277 (230 Oakview) CA.93424-2277 Avila Beach, 9097 East Wood Drive AZ 85260 Scottsdale, 675 Double Eagle Dr. CA 930654 Simi Valley, 8649 E. Royal Palm Rd. #131 AZ 85258 Scottsdale, 480 Navajo Lake Oulvira, KS 66106-9652 4217 Wimbledon Dr. KS 66047 Lawrence, 7705 E Doubletree Rn #33 AZ 85258 Scottsdale, 7047 E. Canyon Wren Circle AZ 85262 Scottsdale, 7303 N.w. Katie Circle MO 64152 Kansas City, 1723 Overlook Ln Santa Barbara,
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CA 93103
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS 5202 E. Shangri La Rd Capt. (GLORIA) (R) CAST E RI IN George R. AZ 85254-4763 Scottsdale, 480-948-4892 241 Shoreview Dr. (S)CAWLEY Noreen Ms. CA 95003-4620 Aptos, 831-688-0838 3825 Zeolite Cr. (R) CLARE Gordon K. I R 0 (MARY) NV 89444-9308 Wellington, 775-266-4537 geemacee@nanosecond.com 2451 E. Sunset St. (E) CLARK Jack E. Capt. (JANE) MO 65804-3360 Springfield, 417-889-0799 jclark@dialnet.net 410 Harbor View Lane Josephine Mrs. (AL) (H)CLAY FL 34640 Largo, 813-584-8456 6 Wild Holly Court John B. Capt. (JOAN) (R)CLEAR SC 29926 Hilton Head Island, 843-342-3706 jclear7318@aol.com 1149 N. 92nd St. #5 (A)COCHRAN James L. Capt. (RUTHE) AZ 85256 Scottsdale, 480-970-6191 61 Borough Road (R)COLE, Jr John W. Capt. (NOREEN) NH 03303-1833 Concord, 1-603-753-9340 690 Pixie Lane (E) COMPTON Stuart F / E (BETH) CA.94526 Danville, 925-837-1698 10333 Pawnee Lane (E) COOPER William S. Capt. (MARY) KS 66206 Leawood, 913-649-1203 Capt. (MARIANNE) 8 Champlain Frank M. (R) CORAY C A 92720 Irvine, 949-552-9791 16219 Sharon Way (R) CORE Richard D. Capt. (JANET) CA 95949 Grass Valley 530-274-0422 124 Reddington Ct. (R)COREY Howard Capt. (IRIS) CA 93010-1944 Camarillo, 805-482-1469 171 Corliss Drive Capt. (MARJORIE) (E) DAHL Jack F. CA 94556-1236 Moraga, 925-376-4104 17195 Av. Desanta Ynez (A)DAVIS Gilbert M. Capt. (KAY) CA 90272 Pacific Palisades, 31 0-454-01 57 gil@gte.net Capt. (BRIGITTE) 727 Sapphire St. #314 (R)DAWKINS Heibert C.jr C A 92109 San Diego, 619-272-4886 hydawkins@compuserve.com 7636 E. Charter Oak Rd J. L. Capt. (JANET) (E) DeCELLES AZ 85260 Scottsdale, lar-jandecelles@juno.com 480-948-8456 1572 S. E. 5th Court Warren C. Capt. (FRAN) (E) DENNISON FL 33441 Deerfield Beach, frandenny@worldnet.att.net 305-428-2887 2670 Augusta Drive So. Benjamin R. Capt. (R)DENSIESKI FL 33761 Clearwater, 727-796-3291 P 0 Box 505 Capt. (MARLENE) Douglas (A)DEUTSCH FL 34681 Crystal Beach, 813-784-4214 1590 Jonathan Court Dominick Capt. (LEE) (R) DI GERONIMO FL 33770 Largo, 727-585-8789 33955 Calla Acordarse W. E. Capt. (JANICE) (E) DICKEY San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-5003 949-248-5255 8575 Woodbriar Dr. (A)DOERY Fred Capt. (NANCY) FL 34238 Sarasota 941-927-8233 P 0 Box 592 (E) DOHERTY Francis J. Capt. (DOLLY) VT 05148 Londonderry 802-824-4081 PAGE 78... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (E) DOHERTY 941-766-8877 (A)DOUGLASS 561-336-2995 (E) DOWLING 602-981-5113 (E) DOWNS 941-341-0705 (A)DRAKE III 978-887-5471 (A)DUNCAN 480-585-7675 (E) DUNFIELD 913-796-6650 (H) DURHAM 408-476-1748 (E) ELLINGTON 520-399-1373 (R) ELLIOTT 913-422-2079 (R) ELLIS 843-363-5170 (E) EMMEATON 941-294-4848 (R)EROEN 480-585-0663 (E) FALKIN (A) FALLUCCO 314-993-5695 (R)FAUSER 941-267-4565 (R) FELLOWS 831-659-8414 (E) FENTON 831-722-2274 (R) FICK, Jr. 561-335-4055 (E) FITZGERALD 915-235-2122 (E) FORRISTALL 941-262-6656 (R)FORTIER 775-831-3040 (R)FORTIN 561-744-9916 (E) FOX 904-343-0986
Francis J.
Capt. (DOLLY)
Francis R. Capt. (CHRISTINE) cbfd@ecqual.net Carl T. Capt. (MARGUERITE G. Richard Capt (GENELL) grgendowns@aol.com Charles Capt. (BARBARA) pfhw75d@prodigy.com Robert W. Capt. (SANDY) sjduncan@aol.com Gerald C. Capt. (FRANCES) gcd@idir.net Lavonna Mrs. (JOHN) Harold F. Capt. (MAXINE) dukell@theriver.com Wendell A. F / E (VIRGINIA) waelliott@aol.com Richard H. Capt. (DOROTHY) John A.
F / E (DONNA)
Conrad B.
Capt. (BARBARA)
Louis R.
F / E (ANN)
Sal Capt. (CAROL) salf@mindspring.com George W. Capt. dscsnowl@aol.com David Capt. (JUNE) Thad
L.
F / E (MARY)
Rudy
Capt. (JULIE)
Glen B.
Capt. (TIDA)
Richard G.
Capt. (PHYLLIS)
Guy A. Capt. (JOANN) guy4ta@aol.com Richard G. Capt. (BETH) dandbf@aol.com John R. F / E (JOAN)
13845 Long Lake Lane FL. 33953 Pt. Charlotte, 12433 N W Harbour Ridge Blvd FL 34990-8042 Palm City, 143 Leisure World AZ 85206 Mesa, 1864 Wyndham Dr. FL 34235-9167 Sarasota, 10 Normandy Row M A 01983-1307 Topsfield, 7826 E Las Piedras Way A Z 85262 Scottsdale, Box 208 Mc Louth, KS 66054 3400 Paul Sweet Rd. B-212 CA 95065-0155 Santa Cruz, 4879 S. View Ridge Dr. AZ 85614-5816 Green Valley, 6225 Clare Dr. KS 66226 Shawnee, 24 N.live Oak Rd. SC 29928 Hilton Head Island, 212 N. Fairway Circle FL 33881-8741 Winter Haven, 7906 E. Las Piedras Way Scottsdale AZ 85262-2247 5374-93 Monterey Cir. FL 33484 Delray Beach 11207 Mosley Hills MO 63141 Crave Coeur, 4487 Windjammer Lane FL 33919-8234 Ft. Myers, 5 Boronda Rd CA 93924 Carmel Valley, 805 Calabasas Rd. CA 95076 Watsonville 1536 Holyrood Lane FL 34952 Port St. Lucie, P 0 Box 878 T X 79556 Sweetwater 631 Jacana Circle FL 34105-7400 Naples, P 0 Box 6065 NV 89450 Incline Village, 204 Ridge Rd. FL 33477 Jupiter, 1321 Apache Cir. Tavares
PAGE 79... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
FL 32778
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (E) GATTY 407-234-8998 (R) GILMAN 913-339-6985 (H) GLAZIER 941-261-3288 (A)GORDON 925-443-2070 (R) GOSEN 630-941-1607 (R) GRAF 480-483-6558 (E) GRAFF 480-596-6942 (R) GRAY 831-423-6316 (R)GREEN 707-887-7044 (E) GREEN 541-523-2006 (A)GREENE 813-695-4789 (E) GREER, Jr. 909-626-5663 (R)GRIMM 602-996-1296 (A) G ROD 949-582-2761 (E) GUNN 913-362-4184 (R) GUSTAFSON 910-673-4099 (R) GUSTAFSON 970-453-9820 (R) GUTHRIE 831-373-8389 (R) HAMILTON 805-987-8550 (R)HARTER, Jr. 816-850-6555 (E) HEADSTROM 925-837-3562 (A)HEMSTED 956 -982-4422 (E) HENDRICKSON 775-831-1615 (H) HENLINE 847-358-0160
Anthony V.
F /E (MARJORIE)
John K. Capt. (JEANAH) jnjgilman@aol.com Marjorie Mrs. (FRANCIS) David S. Capt. (DENISE) gordond@rest.com Raymond H. Capt. (NANNETTE) rgosen@aol.com Harvey W. Capt. (BEVERLY) harvbevg@aol.com Hugh G. Capt. (NORMA) Norman F / 0 (CAROL) candn@cruzio.com Charles M. F / E (SHIRLEY) chugr@sonic.com Clarence E. Capt. (BETTY) clancy@eoni.com Otto Capt. William H. Capt. whgreer@gte.net Derwin Capt. (MARTHA) dgrimmll@compuserve.com Richard A. Capt. (CAROLE) rgrod@aol.com Walter H. Capt. (BETTE LU) wgunn@kumc.edu Alfred M. Capt. (JANET) breck@ac.net Alfred M. Capt. (JANET) Mark H.
Capt. (JAYNE)
Donald L. Capt. (JUDY) captdlh@aol.com Ralph D. Capt. (BONNIE) Alvin L. Bob John L. Virginia
Capt. (DENISE ) Capt. F I E (DORIS) Mrs. (HENRY)
100 Sable Oaks Ln #203 FL 32963 Vero Beach 1959 W. 123rd Terrace KS 66209-1346 Leawood, 3505 Crayton Road FL 33940 Naples, 631 Tina Way CA 94550 Livermore 1023 S. Summit Ave. I L 60181-3214 Villa Park, 8133 East Cortez Drive A Z 85260 Scottsdale, 6662 North 78th AZ 85250 Scottsdale, 113 Longview Dr. CA 95060 Santa Cruz 5971 Green Lane C A 95436 Forestville, 42278 Washington G L C Rd. OR 97814 Baker City, P 0 Box 313 FL 34139-2525 Everglades City, 2682 N. Mountain Ave. CA 91711 Claremont, 4347 E. North Ln AZ 85028-4141 Phoenix, 27031 Moro Azul CA 92691-6038 Mission Viejo, 5834 Lockton Lane KS 66205 Mission, 3137 Seven Lakes West NC 27376 West End, P 0 Box 6164 CO 80424 Breckenridge, 26229 Paseo Del Sur Monterey, 20183 Village 20 Camarillo, 244 Nw 1401 Holden, 17 Adair Court Danville, 45 Fairway Dr. Brownsville, 3585 Brighton Way Reno, 1125 Tymore Court Palatine,
PAGE 80... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
CA 93940 CA 93012-7075 M O 64040 CA 94526 TX. 78520 NV 89509 IL
60067-7063
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (E) HEWITT 252-974-0615 (H) HIGGINS 510-864-7631 (R) HOAG 602-753-4624 (A)HODGINS 250-229-5615 (A)HODGSON 860-355-0676 (R)HOGLANDER 978-525-3280 (E) HORSTMAN 941-637-0961 (R) HORTON 310-822-6556 (E) HOYT 760-346-5550 (E) HUBBARD 402-964-9842 (R) HUNT 805-482-1733 (E) HURT 301-863-5456 (S)HUSAK 520-778-0336 (R) HUTCHISON 770-491-3394 (E) IVES 925-837-2383 (E) JACOBS 414-857-2286 (H)JENNINGS 602-380-5354 (E) JESPERSEN 201-543-4075 (E) JINNETTE 530-994-3537 (R) JOHNSON 520-948-3545 (H) JOHNSTON
Barton G. Capt. (RONNIE) brhewitt@aol.com Veronica Mrs. (WILLIAM G.)
(R)KADONSKY 727-787-3058 (R)KAJENSKI 1-727-360-6134 (R)KALOSKI 919-249-0469
Francis J.
Capt. (FRANCES)
Walter J.
F / 0 (MICHELINE)
John E. Capt. (DORIS) john-dorishoag@prodigy.net Capt. (JEANNE.) Alec T. vector@Insidenet.com Alan Capt. (BRENDA) Harry
Capt. (JUDITH)
C. Marvin Capt. jonmar@sunline.com Robert L. Capt. rho4300@aol.com Harry G. Capt. (PHYLLIS) Lloyd E.
Capt.
Bryce B. Capt. (DORIS) dgal5p@west.net Ben F. FRO (RUBY) rhurt@olg.com Mr. (VIRGINIA) Paul husakxp@northlink.com Joseph B.
Capt. (DIANE)
Lloyd M.
Capt. (CONNIE)
West C. Capt. (VERNA) ropetwa@aol.com Suzanne Mrs. (GORDON) eldergord@aol.com Harlan V. Capt. (ROSE) Earl
I R 0 (WANDA)
Richard V. Capt. (SANDY) rvjmr@cybertrains.com Elizabeth S. Mrs. (A.LEROY)
Dan Capt. (LINDA) kaloski@yahoo.com
107 Hampton Dr NC 27889-3258 Washington 2718 Bayview Drive CA 94501-6346 Alameda, 4823 E. Bannock St. AZ 85044-4002 Phoenix, RR3S-31 C-19 BC V1L5P6 Canada Nelson, P. O. Box 908 CT 06776 New Milford, P 0 Box 5544. MA 01930 Magnolia, 215 Lido Drive FL 33950-6345 Punta Gorda, 4300 Via Dolce, #215 CA 90292 Marina Del Rey, 72311 Merry Vale C A 92260 Palm Desert, 4304 N 157th Ave. NE 68116 Omaha, 917 Calle Acopada CA 93010 Camarillo, 20070 Manor Drive MD 20667 Park Hall, 3535 W. Chipmunk Dr. AZ 86301-7440 Prescott, 3394 Lynnray Drive GA 30340-4418 Doraville, 1761 Calle Arroyo, Box 701 C A 94528 Diablo, 20300 - 107th Street W I 53104 Bristol, 8865 E. Baseline Rd. #443 AZ 85208 Mesa 3 Tingley Road N J 07960 Morristown, P 0 Box #4 CA 96124 Calpine, P 0 Box 2166 AZ 85544-2166 Pine, 10241 Conser St. KS 66212-2511 Overland Park, 3414 Sweetwater Trail FL 34621 Clearwater, P 0 Box 67406 FL 33736-7406 St. Pete Beach, P 0 Box 36 NC 28571-0036 Oriental,
PAGE 81... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (R) KALOTA 949-492-2418 (R) KANE 702-736-1960 (R)KARAFILIS 209-795-2836 (E) KELLY 602-483-3869 (R)KICKLITER 1-727-784-8343 (R)KIEWEL 602-816 6454 (R) KING 407-253-1469 (R) KIRCHHOFF 206-329-3437 (A)KIRSCHNER 775-588-4223 (R) KIRSHTNER 805-969-4582 (R)KLUMB 941-751-4848 (R)KOCH 602-515-4786 (R)KOHRS 775-727-9701 (A)KOLB 941-642-1406 (E) KOLLER 561-283-1229 (R)KUBALL 702-367-6161 (S)L'EPISCOPO 516-868-1996 (E) LAAKSO 530-873-1710 (R) LANCASTER 775-747-2278 (R)LANG 602-584-6564 (R) LANG 201-327-5927 (E) LEE 480-998-8197 (A)LEHOCKY 815-338-4786 (A)LEIGHTON 727-784-3860
Chester
Capt. (MARJORIE)
Robert C. Capt. (DOROTHY) rkane89119@aol.com Philip G. Capt. (CANDY) pkara@jpc.net Paul J. Capt. (MILLIE) pakell@earthlink.net M. Howell Capt. (MARGARET) mkickliter@aol.com Peter Capt. (ELLIE) kiewel@sprynet.com Thomas R. Capt. (BARBARA) Richard T. Capt. rtkirch@att.net William A. Capt. (BARBARA) shooterl@compuserve.com Ernest. R. Capt. (MARY) dacrib@earthlink.net Eugene J. F I E (BERENICE) David H. Capt. (JOAN) dynmitedave@msn.com Perry W. F / E (GEORGIA) Frank J.
Capt. (DOREEN)
Fred
F / E (SONIA)
Edward D. Capt. (JULIE) ekuball@aol.com Joseph B. Mr. (BETTY) Edward O.
Capt. (SALLY)
Charles R. Capt. (SHARON) crlanc@aol.com Ivan C. Capt. (JOAN) Robert R. Capt. (ANGELA) twa2020@aol.com Richard J. Capt. (RAE) rjlp38@msn.com Norman J. Capt. nlehocky@prodigy.net Howard J. F / E (SALLY) hjl@prodigy.net
2244 Ave. Salvador C A 92672 San Clemente, 4758 S. Spencer St. NV 89119 Las Vegas, P 0 Box 2862 CA 95223-2862 Arnold, 6651 East Sunnyvale A Z 85253 Paradise Valley, 785 Maple Ridge FL 34683 Palm Harbor, 16108 E. Andrew Dr. A Z 85268 Fountain Hills 905 N. Harbor City Blvd FL 32935 Melbourne, 2716 Fairview Ave. East WA 98102-3113 Seattle, P 0 Box 3596 NV 89449-3596 Stateline, 572 Stone Meadow Ln. CA 93108 Santa Barbara 5034 Clubview Ct. E. FL 34203 Bradenton 30311 N 59th St AZ 85331 Cavecreek, 1821 W Calvada Biv'd NV 89048 Pahrump, 1080 S Collier Blvd Apt 309 FL 33937 Marco Island, 3944 S. E. Fairway E FL 34997 Stuart, P 0 Box 11189 NV 89111-1189 Las Vegas, 894 Shubert St. NY 11510 Baldwin 13684 Andover Drive CA 95954 Magalia, 1785 Caughlin Creek Rd. NV 89509 Reno, 20427 Tanglewood Dr. AZ 85375 Sun City West 641 Blue Ridge Lane N J 07430-3422 Mahwah, 8980 N. 83rd Place AZ 85258 Scottsdale, 1101 Alpine Lane IL 60098-9726 Woodstock, 888 Belted Kingfisher FL 34683-6677 Palm Harbor,
PAGE 82... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY
(E) LEIN 808-947-1300 (R)LENGEL 570-253-5165 (R)LENGEL 352-753-6818 (E) LEWIS 508-945-0415 (E) LIMA 813-541-6559 (E) LONG 619-568-9582 (R) LOURY 011-52-66-3131 (R)LOWE, Jr. 702-294-1022 (E) LUDWIG 805-569-1373 (R)LUEDTKE 831-722-8566 (R)LUTZ 505-758-4979 (E) LYON 310-472-0876 (E) LYTLE 44366 (A)MACDONALD 949-760-3989 (H) MAGUIRE 209-334-9501 (R)MALMSTROM 480-661-8764 (R) MANLEY 760-345-5230 (E) MANSOLILLO 559-584-6553 (R)McCORMICK 602-975-7281 (R)McKINNEY 1-909-925-3305 (A)McLEAN 816-330-3321 (S)McMILLAN 512-331-7078 (R)McWILLIAMS 650-948-5597 (R)MEYER 941-814-5835
CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS 1650 Ala Moana Bvd #1607 John Capt. (DANIELLE) H I 96815 Honolulu, Roger Capt. (CONNIE) 461 Cliff St. PA 18431-2113 Honesdale, Roger Capt. (CONNIE) 39909 Sunbeam Way FL 32159 Lady Lake, 9 Pinegrove Rd Horace W. Capt. (PEGGY) MA 02669 W. Chatham, Earl F I E (ELEANOR) 5817 Park St. N.,apt 301 FL 33709 St Petersburg Capt. (ALICE) 71-620 Halgar Road Richard P. C A 92270 Rancho Mirage, longalice@aol.com Keith Capt. P 0 Box 439017 CA 92143-9017 San Diego, budme@telnor.net Simeon D. Capt. (OLLIE) 505 Lake Havasu Lane NV 89005-1051 Boulder City, simlo@prodigy.net Richard H. Capt. (BERNICE) 1075 Vista De La Mesa Dr. CA 93110-2063 Santa Barbara, H. H. G. Capt. (MARIAN) 72153.1467@compuserve.com Raymond H. Capt. (FAYNE) rlutz@newmex.com T. Goodwin Capt. (MARY JO) Neal A.
Capt. (MONIQUE)
Bruce M. Capt. (SUSAN) btsmac.@msn.com Alma Mrs. (GEORGE) Larry G. Capt. (JANET L.) Imalmst152@aol.com George L. Capt. (BETTYE) Louis
FIE
Gerard W.
Capt. (CLEDA)
Donald E. Capt. (MITZIE) nald@earthlink.com Perry D. Capt. (MARLENE wOxk@woridnet.att. net Robert D. Mr. (BOBETTE) bobette@ix.netcom.com John A. Capt. (MARY) h j o nmcw@earthlink.net William J. Capt. (PHYLLIS) noodle@peganet.com
347 Amesti Rd. CA.95076-1104 Watsonville, 309 Guyora Ln P 0 Box 1173 NM 87571 Taos, 12065 Rose Marie Lane CA 90049 West Los Angles Parklagon Dutch Lowlnd Antilles St. Maarten Netherland 10 Royal St. George Rd CA 92660 Newport Beach, 19351 Deer Trail Dr CA 95258-9328 Woodbridge, 9720 E. Becker Ln AZ 85260-6206 Scottsdale, 41-300 Jamaica Sands C A 92201 Bermuda Dunes, 9241-13 112 Avenue CA 93230 Hanford, P. O. Box 5745 A Z 85376 Sun City, 2750 Maple Dr CA 92545-7795 Hemet, 9955 N W Windover Dr. MO 64153-2807 Kansas City, 11226 Blackmoor Drive TX 78759 Austin, 47 S. Gordon Way Los Altos, 14610 Sacamore Ct. Ft. Myers,
PAGE 83... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
CA 94022-3730 FL 33908-2159
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS 810 Old Farm Estates Rd. # C Capt. (NORA) (R)MIKELS William H. KS 67502 Hutchinson, 316-663-4276 wmikels@earthlink.net 234 South Main St. Capt. (JUDITH) Adair (E) MILLER M A 01810-4132 Andover, 978-475-2273 fax 978-475-5808 250 Bronco Road Marvin B. Capt. (SHIRLEY) (R) MILLER CA 95073 Soquel, 831-475-6858 Capt. (KATHLEEN) 380 Palm Island N. E. Roylee (E) MILLER FL 33767-1930 Clearwater, 727-441-9442 7250 North Mercer Wy Theodore F. Capt. (MAXINE) (R)MISSELWITZ WA 98040 Mercer Island, tmisselwitz@juno.com 206-232-4278 7955 E. Chaparral, #45 Clarence T. Capt. (NANCY) (R)MITCHELL AZ 85250 Scottsdale, 480-970-4424 21 Maple Ave. William A. Capt. (JACKY) (A)MURPHEY N J 07860-2017 Newton, 973-383-4462 110 Red Rock Court Michael L. Capt. (MARY) (H)MUKRAY CO 80863-2300 Woodland Park, 719-687-6195 1421 Wyldewood Drive Richard W. Capt. (CATHERINE) (A)MURRAY WI 53704 Madison, rmurray@aol.com 608-244-3359 2542 Richdale Drive Russell P. Capt. (IRENE) (E) MYERS, Jr. PA 15068 New Kensington, 1-724-339-7539 3301-b Via Carrizo Ted J. Capt. (WIN) (E) NEJA CA 92653 Laguna Hills, 949-586-7538 5800 N.e. 142nd St. James A. Capt. (RUTH) (R) NELSON MO 64089-8817 Smithville, hestenhill@aol.com 816-532-0866 22 Mayflower Road Richard T. Capt. (JEAN) (E) NELSON M A 01890 Winchester, 781-729-6435 1693 Anne Ct. (R) NEVINS Peter G. Capt. (JUDY) MD 21401 Annapolis, 410-849-5664 petenevins@aol.com 106 Via Toluca (E) NEWTON Jerry L. Capt. (SALLY) CA 92672 San Clemente, 949-498-3438 11332 Foster Rd. Merrill Mr. (E) NIELSEN CA 90720 Los Alamitos, 562-596-4585 mrnielsen@earthlink.net 1014 Wranglers Trail Morris J. Capt. (CAROL) (R) O'CONNELL C A 93953 Pebble Beach, 831-373-7401 F 10 (LENI) 30902 Rivera PI (R)O'NEILL Donald D C A 92677 Laguna Niguel, 949-495-5562 doneill@home.com 27337 Sunnyridge Rd F / E (GLORIA LEE) (E) OLSON Russell E. CA 90274 Palos Verdes Pnsla, rolson@aol.com 213-377-1332 1455 Ne 57th Place (R)PAKULSKI John R. F/E FL 33334 Fort Lauderdale, 954-771-1372 Capt. (PAMELA) 12533 W. 119th Terrace (R)PALMER Kenneth L. KS 66213 Overland Park, 913-897-4343 P. O. Box 275 (R) PARKER John W. Capt. CT 06439 Hadlyme, 860-526-5705 fjug02a@prodigy.com 638 Cameo Highlands (A)PASTORE Bob Capt. CA 92625 Corona Del Mar, 73702.40@compuserve.com 949-760-1982 P 0 Box 101 Capt. (ANITA) (R) PAXTON James E. MO 65079 Sunrise Beach, 573-374-8140 PAGE 84... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
;TORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (E) PEAK 480-483-3279 (R) PERSONS 801-721-6554 (H) PETRY 480-860-4385 (R)PLUMB 408-269-9181 (A)POLK 305-451-1672 (R) POLLARD 541-469-0355 (R)POWELL 916-797-1011 (E) PRINCE 805-481-1332 (H) PUGH
Francis W. Capt. fpeak10881 @aol.com Richard H. Capt. (BILLIE) 73644.2157@compuserve.com Frances L. Mrs. (LOREN)
(R) PYLE 816-452-1 425 (R) RAEBIGER 203-438-3455 (R) RAST, Jr. 314-946-6407 (E) RAUB 480-368-0120 (H) REA 561-231-4140 (E) REED 602-981-8305 (R)REID 305-230-0094 (R)REUTER 775-831-4551 (R) REYNOLDS 480-502-2741 (A) R IC HA R DS 505-298-4650 (R) RICHARDS 209-543-9241 (R) RICHTER 630-584-3179 (R) RICHTER 314-561-1527 (R) RIEBELING 775-831-6998 (A)RIMMLER 480-948-5595
Stephen E. Capt. (HELEN) corsair323@aol.com Otto R. Capt. (MARIE-CLAUD
Kenneth M. F / O (MARLENE) kplumb@juno.com William M. Capt. (GALE) bpokey@aol.com W. W. Bill Capt. (LINDA) actionlure@wave.net W. Dewey Capt. (JOAN) dewpowel@autobahn.org Jack J. Capt. (BETTY) jprince3@juno.com Dorothy P. Mrs. (ROBERT F.)
Jacob P. Capt. (RITA) jaker@igateway.net Clifford G. Capt. (BETTY) Georgia Mrs. (WILLIAM) 11-rea@prodigy.com Edward A. Capt. (ELOISE) William J. Capt. (MARILYN) fax 305-230-1760 Norman Capt. (JOAN) reuters@powernet.net Ronald E. Capt. (CONNIE) David C. M r (JAN) bgmflash@juno.com Gene. Capt. (SUE) grichards@pc-intouch.com James Capt. (BARBARA) James H. Herbert
Capt. (KRIS) A.
Philipp M.
Capt. (MADELINE) Capt. (ELLEN)
13013 North 68th St. AZ 85254 Scottsdale, 3590 Roundbottom Rd F-195821 OH. 45244-3026 Cincinatti, 10462 E. Cochlse Ave. A Z 85258 Scottsdale 2149 Glenkirk Drive C A 95124 San Jose, 602 Santa Anita Lane FL 33037 Key Largo, Box 3154 OR 97415 Harbor, 372 Cope Ridge Court CA 95747 Roseville, 645 Woodland Drive CA 93420 Arroyo Grande, 5321 Amsterdam PI. NC 27606-9707 Raleigh, 5237 North Baltimore MO 64118-4316 Gladstone, 152 Minuteman Road CT 06877 Ridgefield, 2985 Landau Court MO 63301-4215 St. Charles, 7881 E. Cholla St. Scottsdale Country Club I V AZ 85260 Scottsdale, 1515 Indian Bay Dr. FL 32963-2211 Vero Beach, 6150 E. Anaheim St AZ 85205-8310 Mesa, 635 Se 19th Dr. FL 33033 Homestead, P 0 Box 5253 CA 89450 Incline Village, 10040 E. Happy Valley Rd, #2053 AZ 85255 Scottsdale, 11524 Tahiti Pi. N. E. NM 871 11 Albuquerque, 7404 Del Cielo Way CA 95356-8850 Modesto, 40 W. 972 Brown Rd. IL 60175 St. Charles, 9 Regatta Bay Court MO 63367 Lake St. Louis, P 0 Box 4548 Incline Village, NV 89450 7130 Via De La Montana AZ 85258-4011 Scottsdale,
PAGE 85... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 7998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (R)RIPPEL 417-588-4056 (R) ROBERTS 949-498-3456 (E) ROBERTSON 480-951-1669 (R) ROBILLARD 504-885-4544 (A)ROBISON 650-948-2055 ( R ) ROE 816-942-9273 (E) ROEDER 561-790-4210 (R) ROGERS 845-517-7311 (E) ROMAN 505-892-1279 (R) ROMINE 925-736-5159 (A)RONE 913-631-7989 (A)ROUNDY 435-674-1614 (R)ROZE 407-488-0286 (R)RUDE 941-349-5634 (R)SALISBURY 949-642-9333 (A)SCARBOROUGH
Wayne K. Capt. wripple@11ion.org Wallace B. Capt. (BETTY LOU) wally@terps.com Jack N. Capt. (PHYLLIS)
(R)SCHAEFFER 714-254-5048 (R)SCHIFF 310-397-3347 (R)SCHINDEHETTE 602-893-1907 (R)SCHMIDT 561-848-0429 (E) SCHULZ 480-563-9377 (R) SCHWEDLER 570-421-8292 (A)SCHWEIZER 602-837-9821 (R)SCOTT 937-848-8885
Robert G.
Malcolm R. Capt. (JEAN) mickroby@world net. att. net Capt. (PATRICIA) C. Pete cprobison@compuserve.com James E. Capt. (KAREN) jkroe@swbell.net Capt. Gilbert M. Curtis E.
Capt. (FRANCES)
Edwin L. Capt (DOROTHY) dotroman@aol.com William W. Capt. (BETTY) rominewes@msn.com Wendell H. Capt. (JAYNE) www.wrone@compuserve.com Steve Capt. Wally
Capt.
James A.
Capt. (PATTI)
Phil Capt. (KAY) philsal@apc.net Capt. (KATHERINE) John F / E (JUANITA)
Capt. (KATHRYNNE Barry barryschiff@compuserve.com Capt. (DENE) Russell russfly@aol.com Ray A. Capt. (RUTH) wideopen99@aol.com Iro (NORMA) Homer Arthur F. Capt. (ROSE) rosearthur@yahoo.com George Capt. (NANCY) 72153.317@compuserve.com Kent T. Capt. (PATRICE)
Rt 1, Box 213 MO 65764-9631 Tunas, 405 Avenida Granada, #315 C A 92672 San Clemente, 11221 North 55th St. AZ 85254 Scottsdale, 4821 Craig Avenue LA 70003 Metairie, 245 Covington Rd. CA 94024 Los Altos, 21 East 115 Th St. MO 64114-5426 Kansas City, 11225-54th St N. FL 33411 West Palm Beach 1525 Columbine Drive I L 60173 Schaumburg, 538 Eastlake Dr . S E NM 87124 Rio Rancho, 121 Blackstone Dr. CA 94506-1348 Danville, 210 Glenview W. KS 66106 Lake Ouivira, P 0 Box 2009 UT. 84771-2009 St. George, P 0 Box 606 CT 06776 New Milford 8773 Midnight Pass Rd. #403g FL 34242 Sarasota, 1711 Skylark Lane CA 92660-4339 Newport Beach, 755 Wintergreen Ln FL 32780 Titusville, 8920 Mountain Gate Dr. NV 89134 Las Vegas, P 0 Box 66-1039 CA 90066 Los Angeles, 11202 S 44th St. A Z 85044 Phoenix, 105 Paradise Harbour #104 FL 33408-5017 N. Palm Beach, 11890 E. Juan Tabo Rd. AZ 85255-5906 Scottsdale, Rd #7, Box 7350 PA 18360-8754 Stroudsburg, 14601 N Lark Ct AZ 85268 Fountain Hills, 1392 Eden Meadows Wav OH 45440 Bellbrook,
PAGE 86... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (R)SCOTT 602-546-5657 (A)SEAMAN 417-451-9635 (E) SEARLE 480-451-2372 (R)SELLERS 949-494-3661 (H)SEPTER 941-639-5765 (R)SIMMONS 602-299-5014 (A)SMITH 775-463-3862 (E) SMITH 480-991-5003 (R)SMITH 570-265-0882 (E) SOLOMON 805-495-3628 (R)SPASIANO 805-484-1827 (A)SPEAR 850-934-0285 (R)STEVENS 480-922-3110 (E) STEWART 530-477-7308 (R)STITELER 805-496-0707 (R)STONE 973-335-4496 (R)STONEKING 816-454-2297 (A)STONEKING 218-836-2184 (A)STRAND 314-625-1016 (R)STRIGHT 480-951-6191 (E) STUBBS 310-472-8970 (E) STURTEVANT 480-947-4884 (R)SUTORKA 480-946-8023 (R)SYVERSRUD 714-495-8339
William T. Capt. (MARY) wilbilsct@worldnet.att.net John L. F / E (MARY ANN) seatrst92@clandjop.com George B. Capt. (EDNA) Jim Capt. jds51537@aol.com Charles K. Capt. csepter@peganet.com Robert M. Capt. simm85652@aol.com Ermon W. Capt.
(NANCY) (ELIZABETH) (MARY) (MARY LEE)
Frank C.
Capt. (CAROL)
Robert B.
Capt. (DELORES)
Jasper S.
Capt. (BONNIE)
Louis F. Capt. (JAN) ispas@juno.com Charles A. Capt. (MARY-JODY) Larry M.
Capt. (PAULINE)
F / E (RITA) William D. stewart@gv.net Capt. (LORRAINE) D. George cmabird@juno.com Richard J. Capt. (NANCY) ludeck@aol.com Richard D. Capt. (KATHRYN) rdstoneking@juno.com Richard D. Capt. (KATHRYN) Fredrick Capt. (BONNIE) bandf@compuserve.com Iro (EILEEN) Tracy M. Charles E.
Capt.
Henry
Capt. (ADRIENNE)
John S. Capt. (BETTY) johnsutorka@compuserve.com Earl T. Capt. (ADA) skyhawksy@aol.com
13950 W. Rico Dr. AZ 85375 Sun City West, 11795 Orion Lane MO 64850-9587 Neosho, 12000 No.90th St. AZ 85260-8633 Scottsdale 1060 Skyline Dr CA 92651-1935 Laguna Beach, 741 Pamela Drive FL 33950 Punta Gorda, 1631 Entrada Septima AZ 85718 Tucson , 891 Hwy 208 NV 89447 Yerington, 7424 Via Camello Del No AZ 85258 Scottsdale, Rr5, Box 5397 PA 18848 Towanda, 1249 Encino Vista Ct CA 91362 Thousand Oaks, 642 Calla Del Norte CA 93010 Camarillo, 222 Pinetree Dr. FL 32561 Gulf Breeze, 7425 E. Gainey Ranch Rd. #53 A Z 85258 Scottsdale 14983 Los Ninos Place CA 95945-8885 Grass Valley, 2974 Winding Lane CA 91361 Westlake Village, 9 Orchard Way N J 07005-9754 Boonton, 5205 N. Wyandotte MO 64118-4346 Gladstone, 7995 Partridge Point Dr. N E Unit#1 MN 56655 Longville, 5 Rue Grand Court MO 63367-1728 Lake St. Louis, 12277 N. 84 Th PI. A Z 85260 Scottsdale 1850 Mango Way CA 90049 Los Angeles, 8100-176 East Camelback Road AZ 85251 Scottsdale, 7739 E. Buena Terra Wav AZ 85250 Scottsdale, 24722 Oxford Drive CA 92677 Laguna Niguel,
PAGE 87... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (R)TABB 704-859-5976 (E) TABOR 602-984-3597 (R)TANZOLA 314-532-5387 (R)TAYLOR 816-254-9495 (R)TAYLOR 602-431-0215 (E) TAYLOR 1-816-930-2323 (R)TEOMMEY 207-236-6683 (R)THELEN 916-652-7623 (R)THOMAS 760-240-6529 (H)THOMPSON 843-681-6451 (R)THOMPSON 847-259-9718 (R)TOBIN 509-466-8867 (E) TOLF 480-947-7053 (E) TOMLINSON 503-873-8542 (R)TONER, Jr. 732-840-4203 (E) TOOP 305-743-9932 (R)T ROJAN 775-832-0154 (R)T ROJAN 941-966-4686 (E) TROVINGER 310-377-5006 (E) TSCHIRGI 775-867-3836 (R) UNDERWOOD (R) URBAIN 843-681-5516 (R)VAN ANDEL 561-971-4713 (R)VAN TREASE 512-263-5563
James Capt. (KATHLEEN) trimtabb@aol.com Donald C. FIE (VIRGINIA) Capt. (VERNA) James A. jtanz@earthlink.net Dennis J. Capt. (JANE) jadetaylor@prodigy.net Capt. (JANE) Dennis J. jadetaylor@prodigy.net Capt. (SUSAN) Wayne S. Willard L. Capt. teomby@aol.com Capt. (LOIS) Gary W. Capt. (ROSE MARIE) Louis F. mach1Iou@aol.com Mrs. (VAN H.) Jean Capt. (MARJORIE)
Robert R.
Larry Capt. (BARBARA) Itobin3571@aol.com Capt. (SHIRLEY) Edward M. Capt.
D. W.
Capt. (MARLENE) Edward twaecap@home.com Capt. (VIRGINIA) George C. Robert W. Capt. (LONNA) fax 941-966-4686 Robert W. Capt. (LONNA) bobandloni@aol.com Karl F. I R 0 (ANNE) w6kmk@juno.com Charles H. Capt. (BETTY) Kenneth
F I E (TRUDY)
Donald E. John
Capt. (CHRISTIANNE)
H.
Capt. (LINDA)
Charles Y.
Capt. (DORIS MAE)
P 0 Box 99 NC 28782 Tryon, 1452 S. Ellsworth AZ 85208 Mesa 16431 Farmers Mill Lane MO 63005-4549 Chesterfield, 12129 Oak Ridge Road MO 64052 Independence, 4626 Valley View Dr AZ 85044 Phoenix 2250 S.w. Highway 169 MO 64454 Gower, Us Rt 1 - Box 155 ME 04849 Lincolnville, 6777 Highland Rd. CA 95746 Granite Bay, 20273 Wadena Road CA 92308 Apple Valley, 11 Shadewood Lane SC 29926 Hilton Head Is, 807 W. Hintz Rd. IL 60004 Arlington Heights, 16823 N. Golden Road WA 99005 Colbert, 7919 E. Sage Dr. AZ 85250 Scottsdale, 1418 Pine St.#17 OR 97381-1345 Sllverton, 481 B Jason Place N J 08724-2807 Brick, 500 Corte De Luna FL 33050 Marathon, P O Box 4471 NV 89450 Incline Village, 402 Yacht Harbor Drive FL Osprey, 2 El Concho Lane Rolling Hills, 2185 Soda Lake Road Fallon, 1829 Mellow Trail Tucson P 0 Box 21342 Hilton Head Is. 2103 S. U.s. Hwy 1 Ft. Pierce 4401 Hennig Dr. Austin,
PAGE 88... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
CA 90274 NV 89406 AZ 85737 SC 29925-1342 FL 34950 T X 78738-1627
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS H. O. Capt. (PETRA) (R) VAN ZANDT hopvz@compuserve.com 904-767-6607 (R)VASCONCELLOS Keith Capt. 775-882-7054 Dennis H. Capt. (KAREN) (R) VIED dvied@home.com 925-455-0133 Thomas E. Capt. (SYLVIA) (R) VOGEL tvogel2148@aol.com 650-375-0207 Busch Capt. (LUCILLE) (E) VOIGTS 602-974-9769 Capt. (LUCILLE) (E) VOIGTS Busch 913-642-5781 Capt. (MARY JANE) (E) VOSS Robert W. 1 -941 -463-9343 rwvoss@aol.com Eric Capt. (SIGA) (R) WALKER efwalker@pacbell.net 707-433-7326 Allan W. Capt. (MARION) (E) WALL 1-207-236-4191 Capt. (OLGA) (E) WALLACE Robert W. 843-837-4265 James F. F / E (SHIRLEY) (R)WALSH 816-663-3725 Sherrel D. Capt. (KATE) (R) WEEMS 909-695-2364 weems@temecula.com Lyle Capt. (NANCY) (R) WEST 941-795-5411 Richard J. Capt. (DREAMA) (R) WETHERELL richwx@aol.com 503-539-0189 Lewis Capt. (R)WHITAKER 609-467-9673 Capt. (DONNA) (R)WILLCUTTS Robert S. 802-563-2295 capnbob@sover.net Capt. (PENNY) (R)WILSON Jimmy L. 702-255-4101 ji mandpeny@aol.com (E) WILSON Joe W. F/E 712-374-3234 (E) WITTKE Robert A. Capt. (NANCY) 843-671-6916 Les W. Capt. (BARBARA) (E) WOOLSEY woolsey@pacbell.net 650-948-3316 F / 0 (STEPHANIE) (A)YATES Bob 813-869-1399 Wayne H. Capt. (R) YORK 727-791-7332 yorkw@idt.net (E) POUNCE Russell C. Capt. (JEAN) 561-288-4934 Russell C. Capt. (JEAN) (E) YOUNCE 520-284-2886
1810 Lindbergh Ln FL 32124 Daytona Beach, 2720 Kings Canyon Rd NV 89703 Carson City, 1071 Innsbruck St CA 94550-5637 Livermore, 1050 Carolan Ave Apt 301 CA 94010 Burlingame, 15685 Lakeforest Dr. A Z 85351 Sun City, 10232 Lee Blvd KS 66206 Leawood 20 Avenida Carlta FL 33931-4206 Fort Myers Beach, 548 Sunnyvale Dr CA 95448-3023 Healdsburg, P 0 Box 492 ME 04856-0491 Rockport, 30 Toppin Drive SC 29926 Hilton Head Island, Route #3, Box 213 MO 64640 Gallatin, 41329 Promenade Chardonnav CA 92591-4957 Tececla, 118 Tidy Island Blvd. FL 34210-3304 Bradenton 8951 Bonita Beach Rd., #525-242 FL 34135-4201 Bonita Springs, 100 Railroad Ave. N J 08085 Swedesboro, 212 Tetreault Road V T 05647 Cabot, 3025 Savona Cir Las Vegas, P 0 Box 276 Sidney, 11 Wood Duck Rd. Hilton Head, 622 Mliverton Road Los Altos, 13419 Starfish Dr. Hudson 125 Woodcreek Dr. E. Safety Harbor, 3832 Sw Bimini Circle Palm City, 260 Red Rock Rd Sedona
PAGE 89... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
NV 89128-6901 I A 51652 SC 29928 CA 94022 FL. 34667 FL 34695-5513 N FL 34990 AZ 86351
TARPA 1998 DIRECTORY CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS (E) YOUNG 207-839-3600 (R) YOUNG 401-884-6598 (R)ZACHMAN 808-322-4065 (A)ZIERDEN 480-991-0727 (R)ZIMBLEMAN 701-375-6621 (A) ZIMM ER MAN 610-967-5062 (R)ZINK 714-495-5554
F / E (HELEN) James R. jyoung3@maine.rr.com Peter A. Capt. (PATRICIA) ply-pay@msn.com T. V. " Ted " Capt. (THELMA) tvz@gte.net Robert Capt. (ANN) James O. Capt. zimbo@drservices.com Luther D. Capt. (DOLORES) Izimm@erols.com John C. Capt. (CAROL) jczink@ix.netcom.com
26 Elkins Road ME 04038 Gorham, 1515 South Road RI 02818 E. Greenwich 78-7070 Alil Dr. B-104 Kailua-kona, H I 96740 5601 E. Sweetwater Ave Scottsdale, AZ 85254-4371 9347 - 80th St., Se ND 58441 Fullerton 5754 Whitemarsh Dr. P A 18062-8956 Macungie, 23852 Stillwater Lane CA 92677 Laguna Niguel,
TARPA WELCOMES
(R)DAVIS 770-781-9413 (R)DEGLER 609-259-9235 (R) ERICKSEN 415-456-2082 (A)FERRISO 908-879-2630 (A)HOFFMAN 815-728-0200 (A)JONES 702-456-6272 (R)KRITZLER 913-469-4112 (S)McGROARTY 314-427-5939 (R)SCHAEFER 314-239-1214 (A)WANK 415-388-4947 ( A) ZYG MU ND 314-822-4949
NEW MEMBERS 2555 Fairview Drive James H. Capt. (CAROL) Cumming, 2 Grell Place Capt. (RUTH ANN) Kenith R. Robinsville, kend7@aol.com 94 Wimbledon Way George Capt. (CAROLYN) San Rafael, 4 Cowie Road Peter W. Capt. Chester, pwferriso@earthlink. net Roland R. Capt. (SHARON) 8607 W Sunset Dr. Wonder Lake, rollie@owl.net Capt. 4083 S. Goldcoast G. C. Butch Las Vegas, 11688 Rosehill Robert Capt. (BARBARA) Overland Park, William Mr. (DOROTHY) 4437 Gordon Avenue St. Louis, Art Capt. (RITA) 50 Lost Creek Washington, 450 E. Strawberry Dr. Richard Capt. Mill Valley, rlwank@compuserve.com Capt. (MARCIA) 810 Brookcreek Marty ziggy-1@worldnet.att.net Kirkwood,
PAGE 90... TARPA TOPICS... MARCH, 1999
GA 30041 N J 08691 CA 94901 N J 07930 IL
60097-8237
NV 89121 KS 66210 MO 57590 MO 63090 #62 C A 94941 MO 63122