| Mark Blake from New Palestine, IN | |
| Gentlemen, VF-111 was my first command in the Navy (1980-1984). Did the 1981 WESTPAC on the Kitty Hawk and the 1983 Worlkd Cruise On the USS Carl Vinson. Worked in Material Control (AKAR to AK2). Looking for all of those who served during that time. We need to stay in touch and keep up the SUNDOWNER tradition of the FINEST Fighter Squardon in the US NAVY. | |
| Send Mark E-Mail | |
| Eric Johnson from Lemon Grove, CA | |
| Was a SUNDOWNER LINE DOG from 87-90.. Went to VX-4 worked in the Engine shop. then did a sea tour with VS-21 in Atsugi Japan on the Indy. Got out as AD3. Now i am full time California Army National Guard and getting ready to go back to Iraq on my 2nd combat tour. Hope to hear from you guys soon.. | |
| Send Eric E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 7-11-08-- Still need help paying for the Web site for 2008 I still owe $200 of the total cost of $450. Any help sure be appreciatited. Send to Orlin Hanson, PO Box 28 Sherwood ND 58782 Sundowner 1953 | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Jason Boles from Key West, FL | |
| Greetings from VFC-111 Sun Downers in Key West, FL!!Looking for old Sun Downer pictures!! | |
| Send Jason E-Mail | |
| Bill W. from Kansas City, KS | |
| I recently acquired a Sun Downers patch and was wondering if anybody could give me an idea as to its era. I "googled" Sundowners and came upon your fine website. The patch is felt, the airplanes are blue, and the clouds of smoke in the rising sun are white. Any help you could give would be appreciated. Thanks. | |
| Send Bill E-Mail | |
| BILL SEXTON from SPRINGFIELD, OHIO | |
| served in vf111 1955 thru july 1957. arrived squadron as ab/an changed to AM rate soon after. | |
| Send BILL E-Mail | |
| Ken Jones from Eureka, NV | |
| VF-111 was my first fleet squadron. I made the 62-63 and 63-64 WESTPAC cruise on the Kitty Hawk Ken Jones, AQ1 | |
| Send Ken E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Another check in the mail to help pay for the Web Site from Steven Wells,Rialto, CA. Only $250 to go. Any help you can give would be appreiated. Send to, Orlin Hanson, Box 28,Sherwood, ND 58782, Thanks Steven | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Wild Man Colvin from Brigham, Utah | |
| Ha Ha...its awesome to see familiar names here. VCF-111? That kicks Butt! SunDowners foerever! E-mailed Warner while he was in IRAQ soaking in some heavy duty ultra violet rays. Hey Dane, I saw yer entry and will E-mail ya! Sure do miss them Tomcats though... Line Dawg-Shooter 90-92 | |
| Send Wild Man E-Mail | |
| Nevance R (Don) Donaldson from Angwin, ca | |
| Don Donaldsons new Email. VF11 | |
| Send Nevance R (Don) E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Another check to day from Jim Crowly, Edina, Mn to help pay for Sundowner web site only $300 to go. Orlin | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Joseph Duke from Key West, FL | |
| I am honored to be associated with the fine legacy created by VF-111 as a current maintainer with Sikorsky in VFC-111. | |
| Send Joseph E-Mail | |
| Richard Thompson from Ukiah, California | |
| I was a sundowner from 1976-80 AE shop, just want to hi to who ever out from that time. It was one of the most exciting times of my life. To all my old shipmates please let me know how your doin. Thanks for the good times Richard Thompson | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Nevance R (Don) Donaldson from Angwin, Ca | |
| Glad to find this website. My Grandpa whom Im writing this for is 90 years old today. Nevance R.(Don) Donaldson was A Aviation Machinist 1st Class P.He Volunteered for the Navy Dec.17 1941. He is one of the original 16 enlisted men and 75 Pilots to become the VF11 Squadron in 1941. He would to talk with anyone with Questions or stories. I think he could be a great asset with the history. Thank-you. Please Email | |
| Send Nevance R (Don) E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 4-12-08--Got a check this morning to help pay for the Sundowner Web site. Thanks Gary Kish,Mesa, Az. Need a few more just like that, Orlin Hanson, Sherwood ND | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| curtis isaacson from elgin, texas | |
| aoc ike isaacson, 1989 thru 1992 ran the ordnance shop, made the cruises aboard the carl vinson and the kittyhawk. sure good to see some familiar names on this site keep the faith, sundowners forever. | |
| Send curtis E-Mail | |
| Tim Doering from Rustburg, VA. | |
| I have scanned and burnt to CD two cruse books for Sundowners that made these cruses. Both are the USS Kittyhawk and are of the two cruses of May 24, 1962 through April 12, 1963 and the second cruse is October 17, 1963 through June 16, 1964 If you were a sundowner and were aboard for either of these cruses and want a copy of either book send me your name and address. Both of these books were borrowed for this purpose from Kenneth R. Lewis. I do not know if there are other cruse books that included the Sundowners but if you have one and are willing to share it with the rest of us please contact me. I will scan it and burn it to CD and make it available to any that was aboard for that cruse. Your cruse book will then be returned to you immediately, and intact. The CD’s are pretty good but less than perfect because I refuse to remove the pages to scan them. I will not charge for this and that is why I will only make the CD’s available for those that made that cruse. This will be expensive enough sending them at no charge to actual Sundowners who were aboard for these specific cruses. Please put “CRUSE BOOK” in the subject line of your E-Mail. . Tim Doering | |
| Send Tim E-Mail | |
| Andrew (AJ) Yerman from Oregon City, Oregon | |
| Sundowner from 1982 - 1985 | |
| Send Andrew (AJ) E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 3-04-08- Got my second check today from Joe Vasta, Stamford, Ct, thanks Joe, now theres only $375 left to pay. Orlin | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 2-25-08- Got my first check today to help pay for the Sundowner web site for another year,thanks to Gerald Coeur, Bayside, CA/ Need more help though send a check for $25, $50, $100 if you can. Orlin Hanson, PO Box 28, Sherwood, ND 58782 Total cost of web site for year $450 | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| nick (snoopy) bush from montebello, ca. | |
| ok..sundowers,things are giting started, but i need more info from all of you so i can get all of you more info;so if you keep inthouch with anyone ,let them know,then let me know...nick. | |
| Send nick (snoopy) E-Mail | |
| Ronald Waller from Murrieta, CA | |
| served 1985-1989 AO Shop, had a great time enjoyed working with the best AO shop in the world, JED, Quintana, Kelly, lopez and all the crew. especially our shop giving the line shack the best body slams ever, never a dull night especially when i could walk in to a lights out empty shop with everyone downloading on the flight deck and find a plane captain hanging from a chair tied to the roof all taped-up. outstanding bunch of guys | |
| Send Ronald E-Mail | |
| nick (snoopy) bush from montebello, cal. | |
| helo! sundownders; please get intouch with anyone you keep intouch with. tell everyone about a reunion in las vegas...please;looking foward to seeing some old sundowners,and meeting new sundowners! nick bush;323)547-3473/ njbinc@sbcglobal.net please pass the word /and keep in toutch..thank you...nick :snoppy:bush | |
| Send nick (snoopy) E-Mail | |
| oza jackson from montgomery, illinois | |
| Ams2 Oza jackson. Airframes shop from 1985-1988 | |
| Send oza E-Mail | |
| Ken Sanchez from Escondido, CA | |
| Hey Sundown-aaaahs! Pretty awesome to see so many familiar names. I was an AE1 at VF-111 from 1988-1992. What a GREAT time to be part of the team. What a kick-ass jet to have worked on! I am back in San Diego and am working at CNAF as the IMA Maint Process Improvement bubba. Good to be back on shore duty after a second tour in Japan. I visited with (AE2/CIV) Mike "Yo-Yo" Yara late last year in Virginia Beach. Also just ran into (AE2/CIV) Rich Collins a few days ago at the NASNI PX. Still correspond with Larry "ET" Elliott and Jason "ACE" Lowrey. I have their contact info if you need it. Check out the www.togetherweserved.com website - another killer way to connect with other Sundowners out there. Still looking for Sean Fallon, Dan "The Man" Boedecker, Curtiss "Big Daddy" Morrissette, Smalls, Victor Rivera, Dave Lovelace, Cantrell, and all other AEs from the 1988-1994 period. Tried pulling off a Vegas get together but sea duty came too fast. Let's give it a shot this year! Take care - and long live Omar!!! Ken | |
| Send Ken E-Mail | |
| Richmond Blake from Idyllwild, CA | |
| Hey Nicky, songs good to me I will contact the Ex-Sundowners I keep in touch with. Looking forward to seeing some of the old gang again. I will be in contact with you and Sergio or Mark. AD1(ret)Blake. | |
| Send Richmond E-Mail | |
| nick bush from montebello, ca. | |
| it dosent mater when you were a sundower, you need to get in contact with all sundowers so we could get together in ,oct.,nov. 2008 in las vages,need moor info from everone to book a hotel and make it cheeper for ereryone | |
| Send nick E-Mail | |
| nick bush from montebello, ca. | |
| it dosen,t matter when you were a sundower,get intough with anyone so we could put this together..in las vegas. nick bush/323-547-3473cell 323/838-6458home..or njbinc@sbcglobal.net | |
| Send nick E-Mail | |
| nick bush from montebello, ca, | |
| looking forward to a reunion in las vegas ,everone please gitt in toughch with anyone you can to put this togerher | |
| Send nick E-Mail | |
| Robert Laslo from Akron, Ohio | |
| Served 62-65 with VF111 Sundowners ,NAS Mirmar-- aboard Kitty Hawk,Midway. Hello all | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Folks its that time of the year when our Sundowner Website needs renewing. Any help you can give me would be appreciated. Send check to Orlin Hanson, Box 28 Sherwood, ND. 58782 The renewal is $450 for a year | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Richard Thompson from Ukiah, California | |
| Hey what is up. Richard "Power T." Thompson here from the VF-111 AE Shop 1976-80. Went on the 79-80 WESTPAC. Looking for some shipmates, please let know. AE Mike "Vinny" Vincent,AE Green, AE1 Mark "OB", OBrian, AE1 Dave Gay, AE Ron Hall, AE Mark Rice, AE Creamer, AE2 Scott Shoemaker, AE Bill "Wild Bill" Riech (sp). hey guys let me know what is up. later, hope to hear from you. | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Chris McCurley from Cherokee, California | |
| World Cruiser and WESTPAC Parachute Rigger. Good to see some familiar names. Where's Potts? | |
| Send Chris E-Mail | |
| Thomas Clift from Jacksonville, Florida | |
| A great squadron! John Brickner and I still visit occasionally during west coast trips to visit our son and his family. | |
| Send Thomas E-Mail | |
| Kim Viner from Laramie, WY | |
| Nice to see so many Sundowners from 75-78 period posting recently. Hope you are all well and happy! | |
| Send Kim E-Mail | |
| Dennis Scott from Waynesville, MO | |
| I was an AME3 Sundowner... CDR Rice & Cdr Markly were the skipper at the time circa 1972. We were flying F4B & Later Transitioned to F4N. | |
| Send Dennis E-Mail | |
| Mario Morales from Manhattan, KS | |
| Served with VF-111 on the line from 93-Decommission. I have fond memories of sneaking out onto the port side catwalk of the Kitty Hawk in the middle of the night somewhere in the Pacific Ocean with Parker and Raddemacher. We'd sit for hours talking about who knows what; its only by the grace of God that one of us didn't fall in! Its hard to believe that its been over 12 years... my how time flys by. Nowadays I work in Information Technology as a technology coordinator for Kansas State University and I'm also finishing up my bachelor's degree in the field of education. Hope all of you are well. | |
| Send Mario E-Mail | |
| Dwight Saville from Oak Harbor, WA | |
| reuion would be fun | |
| Send Dwight E-Mail | |
| Sergio Rivas from Glendora, CA | |
| 1/12/08 Proud sundowner 77-80 AMS3 Plane Captain,line division. The foudation for cutting edge technology,what a fantastic era ! Trained on the F-4 phanthom and F-14 Tomcat. N.A.S. Miramar and the U.S.S KITTY HAWK was my home throughout my enlistment. I made the best of friends that a person could ask for and life long relationships.One perticular frien is now my brother-in-law,Nick Bush.We often reminisce of the great times we experienced overseas on and off the boat and base. As a civilian I searched for years,trying to replicate the excitement and pleasure that the flight deck and flight line gave to me . I could never find it,infact I truly beleive it doesn't exist ! Picutre this ; Night launch , alert five status ,the bird is kneeling on the catapult and in after-burner !!!! I attended college and utilized my G.I. bill and met the woman of my life in class and also discovered a profession that gave me excitement and personal satisfaction. I currently practice in an acute hospital in the Gastroenterology unit as a R.N. and have been for 23 years. I re-enlisted in the reserves a number of times until 1990 at which time I realized I could no longer maitain two professions .Nick and I keep in touch with a number of old Sundowners , most recently last year at a party at my home in Gledora ,California. We also had a reunion in 1989, and a pretty good turn out.We are currently entertaining the idea of a Las Vegas reunion this Spring . Fellow shipmates ,I possess the absolute best Sundowner memories and pictures ! Soon I will post for all to see and many of you will enjoy these memories with your families . God Bless you all !! PRESS ON SHIPMATES- OMAR LIVES Sergio Rivas | |
| Send Sergio E-Mail | |
| Dwight Saville from Oak Harbor, WA | |
| OLd age has settled In I had dinner with Jay Aldrich. Sorry Jay. was reading richmonds comments on the web site. | |
| Send Dwight E-Mail | |
| Dwight Saville from Oak Harbor, WA | |
| Dirty Dozen rule. I had dinner this evening with Richmond Blake in Lynwood. He is up in the area working with Boeing and it was such a good time catching up on shipmates. Happy New Years 77=80 and one heck of an awesome cruise....JT if ya get here ya better give call.. | |
| Send Dwight E-Mail | |
| brandon petersen from jackson, ca | |
| this is brandon petersen again, in case you cant remember what i look like my son is in the foo fighters video called the pretender and he is the head swat guy, check it out! i don't know alot of poeple say he looks like his mother!!! Oh well, i can oniy wish i was famous. see ya again brandon petersen aka pete | |
| Send brandon E-Mail | |
| brandon petersen from jackson, ca. | |
| ame/plane captain/touble shooter, vf-111 1974-1978 hello to everyone i served with. I have talked with robert swick in the past, emailed rick melbye, lonnie pardon, and also stay in contact with jim bennent, herb dickerson, and chris metz. take care everyone PETE | |
| Send brandon E-Mail | |
| mark kapusta from desplaines, il | |
| Hope you all have a great new year | |
| Send mark E-Mail | |
| Robert Swick from Garden Grove, Calif | |
| Nice to see this page is still up and running.. My wife and I visited the USS Midway in San Diego, if you haven't visited the ship the next time you are in San Diego you should. It's worth it. They have one F8 painted in the Sundowner colors and one F4 painted in VF51 on one side and VF111 on the other. One thing that sticks out the most is the smell, brings back memories (jet fuel). I was a Sundowner from 1975 till 1978 Power Plant shop. Take care Rob Swick | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Chris Brooks from oklahoma city, Oklahoma | |
| Glad to see several of the ATs on here I used to work with from 92-95. It's been a long time, but I think of everyone all the time. Am in OK City working at an Air Force Depot (Tinker AFB). We do major overhaul on B-52s and B-1s. I've also been in the AWACS program and foreign military sales. Thought I’d get away from the aircraft stuff, but I guessed wrong. Archaeology wouldn’t pay the bills. It’s amazing how many of my co-workers were ex-Navy techs. Take care all, and merry X-mas. Pleae pass on my contact info below. Chris Brooks B-1, B-52 Master Scheduler Section Chief 565th Depot Maintenance Squadron DSN 336-5477 Blackberry (405) 370-6642 | |
| Send Chris E-Mail | |
| John Dullam from Kernersville, NC | |
| Sundowner 88-91, AMS3 started in the line shop, line shop nigth shift supervisor 1st cruise, Trouble shooter shop 2nd cruise. Oh what fun.....the days of the line dawgs. We need to line up the old group 87-91 crowd and get together one of these days. | |
| Send John E-Mail | |
| Rich Wagner from Fremont, Nebr. | |
| Plane captain in '65 and '66. Appears that quite abit of pride still exists with the "Sundowners". Keep it going. | |
| Send Rich E-Mail | |
| TJ Seymour from Lawton, OK | |
| To all you Sundowners, especially 77-80 crew: Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. Hi Sal...I saw your name and finally remembered you! Hard getting old! | |
| Send TJ E-Mail | |
| Farrell Gallagher from Margate, Florida | |
| WOW! Reading these emails has brought back some very fun memories. I served with VF 111 from 74 to 77. Worked in the AE shop, plane captain, and troubleshooter. shot a lot of pool in jacksonville before Med Cruise. Hello's to Carter Parsons, Bobby Green, Martin Cookie Cook, Russell aka Snuffy Smith, and of course John Sherman to name a few. Hope all lives are full of Joy and happiness. | |
| Send Farrell E-Mail | |
| Michael Bradley from Lewiston, Idaho | |
| Served with VF-111 aboard the USS Midway during the 64/65 Vietnam cruise. Great group of folks to have been associated with. | |
| Send Michael E-Mail | |
| Gary C. Kish from Mesa, AZ | |
| Wishing You All the Best this "CHRISTMAS SEASON" SUNDOWNER 1962-1964 | |
| Send Gary C. E-Mail | |
| Richard Thompson from Ukiah, California | |
| Hey guys what is up, i was in VF-111 from 1976-80 went the 1979/80 WESTPAC on the Kitty Hawk. I worked in the AE shop. Hope everyone is doing great. Am school teacher in Ukiah, teach emotionally disturbed kids. Am greatful for the Navy that me to grow up a little. juat wanted to say hi to all my old shipmates. | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Edward Moffitt from Stanley, Wi | |
| Hey Sundowners. Just a short note to let everyone know what I'm up too now. I am back in school working on becoming a machinist. I started school in late october and really enjoy it. It is very nice to not be out on the road driving truck and away from my family. Feel free to drop me a line would love to hear from some of the old sundowners. | |
| Send Edward E-Mail | |
| harvey evans from humboldt, iowa | |
| VF111 1973MIDCRUISE TILL JUNE 1976 | |
| Send harvey E-Mail | |
| Stephen Olex from Ocala, Florida | |
| Proudly served as a Sundowner during the 1973 cruise on CVA 43 USS Coral Sea. Cdr. John Brikner CO. I was an AHM2. Retired as an NCC in 1989. Loved this squadron and my fellow shipmates. My brother Tim also served in the squardron on brother duty with me. | |
| Send Stephen E-Mail | |
| Bill Freckleton from Palmdale, ca | |
| VF-111 is alive and well in Key West. The Sundowners, it seems, have longevity! | |
| Send Bill E-Mail | |
| Richmond Blake from Idyllwild, CA | |
| Well, hello to all again. It's just me AD1(ret)Blake from the 1977-80 time frame wishing you all had a good Veterans day. Hey Russ give me a holla with your new number. Good to see you found the site Curtis, I hope to talk to you soon. | |
| Send Richmond E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Thanks Gerry for up dating us on a former Sundowner passing on. Orlin Hanson, Sundowner 1953 Korea | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Gerry Coeur from Bayside, Ca | |
| Walt Boring,an ex-sundowner,and 85 years young, passed away this past week at his home in Ashville,North Carolina.Walt made the Hornet cruise and returned to civilian life after the war. He became a chemical engineer after graduating from Georgia Tech and spent a lifetime in the textile industry. He leaves his wife Edith (62 years married) and two sons. Anyone interested in reaching Edith the home address is 518 Cokesbury Ln, Ashville,N.C.28803. The phone number is 828 277 3710. Gerry Coeur ex-sundowner. | |
| Send Gerry E-Mail | |
| Russell Tribe from Moyock, North Carolina | |
| As good as we have been! chain gang 79 - 80 cruise. Richard Blake Curtis Samples, Bud Stout (any one know where he is?) Sid Stringer (he is in Washington State now) Mark Kapusta and many more under the leadership of Chief Fears. | |
| Send Russell E-Mail | |
| Dane Knight from El Centro, CA | |
| Just updating my email address. A lot has happened since my last entry. Got re-married, presently have a two year old daughter and another rug-rat on the way. . . last one, I swear. Still stay in touch with AME Webster. Haven't talked with AME Martin in a while or Wildman Colvin. Drop me a line and let me know how you all are doin'. | |
| Send Dane E-Mail | |
| Jim Margrave from Robesonia, PA | |
| Worked with VF111 on ShangriLa in 1970. Increadible how this unit has been everywhere, and flown everything. Just sat in the VF111 F8 nose at the Naval Air Museum, and it got me thinking about how VF111 went on after the F8 (and what all it had done before the F8) | |
| Send Jim E-Mail | |
| curtis sample sample from joshua, texas | |
| well gaaaalllleeeee,Mark Kapusta told me of the web site so I had to check it out.saw alot of familliar names,JEFF HAYES,JEFF MAHN,RICHMAND BLAKE,OL IKE,anyway good to see all these and brought back some very good memories.Iworked in the line shack from '78 to '81.Anybody got RICK MESSINGER,DANNY MILLER,OR SEAN BEACHES E-MAILS please foward it to me.So good to think about all ya'll,we really had some good times,some of the best of my life.GOD BLESS | |
| Send curtis sample E-Mail | |
| mark rice from charlotte, north carolina | |
| AE2 Rice back in 79-80 westpac cruise. looking for some of those folks back then. was one of the dirty dozen. looking for AE1 Dave Gay and Lcdr Bud Taylor{Thunder} also. | |
| Send mark E-Mail | |
| Pat Noonan from Sumter, SC | |
| Proud Sundowner In the eighties, for the shakedown, world, and cruise after. Worked in the electric shop, and trouble shooters. We were the best of the best!!! | |
| Send Pat E-Mail | |
| Scott Meyer from LEAVENWORTH, KS | |
| Hi! I am doing a little research on an F8H (BuNo 148677) that was in VF-111 in the 60's or early 70's. I believe it was flown by a Lt. Hugh Risseeuw from the Shangri-La. Just trying to put a little history together for this particular aircraft. Thanks in advance for your assistance. | |
| Send Scott E-Mail | |
| Brett Millikan from Tucson, Arizona | |
| Well all, I have started my new job and I LOVE it. There is life after the military. LOL I am still a "weekend warrior" in the Air Force Reserve for another 7 months. My retirment date is April 1st 2008. I put on E-7 in 06 and had to agree to 2 years to put it on. Yep the old joke telling MillikanMan made Chief! Well not really, in the AF you are not a Chief till you make E-9. Oh well the gate guard at NAS NI called me chief, and that is close enough. I am putting out a request to all of you. I am in need of a nice AQAN patch for the dress blues. I am putting together a shadow box for my retirement and the only stripe I have is sewn on my dress blues. I really don't want to have to take that off of my uniform. Any Help out there??? | |
| Send Brett E-Mail | |
| Philip VanderWall from Marne, Michigan | |
| Member, VF111 from 1982-1985. Two deployments on CVN70 | |
| Send Philip E-Mail | |
| ray bugbee from upland, california | |
| line crew 72-75,wink,mouse,jonesy(steve)arbin where are you guys. drop me a line or anyone who can remeber me. had some great times with you. GO SUNDOWNERS BUGS | |
| Send ray E-Mail | |
| ray bugbee from upland, califonia | |
| vf-111 plane captain for the f-4's 1972-1975 | |
| Send ray E-Mail | |
| Jim Clarke from Pensacola, Florida | |
| Your "GUNNER" 1992-1995 | |
| Send Jim E-Mail | |
| Jim Walck from Escondido, CA | |
| I was an AQ3 in the AQ shop 1973-1975 Went on to retire in 1994 as an ATC in VF-124 | |
| Send Jim E-Mail | |
| JT Loy from Cordova, TN | |
| I felt like a trip down memory lane and "GOT ONE". Good to see IKE, Nick and so many I remember the name still in the guess book.IKE if I get to go to Boeing for the 777 program I am lookin you up. | |
| Send JT E-Mail | |
| Charles Wylie from Tucson, Az | |
| To all the ordie from 92-95, I miss you all. Hope to hear from you guys in the near future. | |
| Send Charles E-Mail | |
| Richmond Blake from Idyllwild, CA | |
| Well hello again all you Ex-Sundowners and welcome to the new Sundowners of the new VFC-111. Sorry to see that we are losing some of our fellow Sundowners. I will be at a block party with (Nick Bush & Sergio Rivas) old line friends from 1977-80 lineshack. This will be in Gendora,Ca on the 1st of September.We will be thinking about all of you guys from days gone by.AD1(ret)Blake. | |
| Send Richmond E-Mail | |
| Bruce Pallesen from whittier, ca | |
| NH Means never home right! sailed as a sundowner ame-2 from 63-66 on the kitty, midway & the mighty "O". hail OMAR | |
| Send Bruce E-Mail | |
| Douglas Parker from Pinellas Park, FL | |
| Hello and God bless to all surviving Sundowners! A special salute and heartfelt thanks to all first-tour Sundowners in my father's memory. Chester A. "CAP" Parker | |
| Send Douglas E-Mail | |
| Carolyn M from Williams, AZ | |
| I have two pictures of my Uncle John W. Ramsey. One from WWII and one from Korea but I can't find the link to do this. | |
| Send Carolyn E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Our Lord and Savior came for my husband Bud Sunday, 15 July at 3:07pm. Kelley and I spent the last six and a half hours with him as he slept. When we left him on Saturday, the last thing he said to us in a strong voice was "Bye Girls!. This is something Kelley and I can hold on to. Thank you all for your thoughtfulness and prayers. They have been greatly appreciated. Chris and Kelley Kretsinger | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Daniel Teague from Bandera, TEXAS | |
| Phanthoms Phorever | |
| Send Daniel E-Mail | |
| Craig Steffen from Phoenix, AZ | |
| Just a note to say "HI" to all you SunDowners out there! Still in Arizona working for Lockheed. Drop a line if you get a chance, particularly those from '83 to '86 timeframe. | |
| Send Craig E-Mail | |
| Jason Klemesrud from Mankato, MN | |
| I was in VF-111 from 1992 until the lights were shut off. I was one of the last two AEs in the squadron. Nice to see others I worked with posting here. (Dana, Ed, Jason, Ron). Any of you that remember me feel free to send e-mail me. | |
| Send Jason E-Mail | |
| Jerry Johnson from Bandera, Texas | |
| I was with VF-111 from 92-95 I was an AO3 when I left if anyone out ther had heard from any of the Ordies drop me a line. I am now a Sergeant with the Bandera County Sheriff's Office in Texas. "IYAOYAS" | |
| Send Jerry E-Mail | |
| edward sturgill from lincoln park, mi. | |
| how are things,was a sundowner 80-83,thoughts are with you all,godspeed and stay safe. ed sturgill ame2 | |
| Send edward E-Mail | |
| Steve Ivie from Ashburn, GA | |
| My father, Claude M. Ivie Jr., was a naval aviator VF-11 "Sundowners" from April, 1943 until August, 1943. I have his patch. Does anyone have any informatiopn on him or this time? Steve Ivie | |
| Send Steve E-Mail | |
| Jim Cheal from Satellite Beach, Florida | |
| Nice to find this site, as my father, who took his last flight in 11/93, was the skipper of the VF111 in 1959. He later served with Capt. Gene Fairfax, also a past skipper, on the TI as his Exec.; I was proud to know both, even though I was only a kid in middle school at the time. Got to spend many a good day aboard that ship and at Mirimar NAS ! Glad to know that this history is still around ! Thanks, In loving memory of Capt. W.R. Cheal, Jim Cheal | |
| Send Jim E-Mail | |
| gregg cryderman from seattle, wa | |
| Got to take a Tiger Cruise on my son's ship the USS DUBUQUE (LPD 8) last week. What an experience to see how the "black shoe" Navy operates a ship. Was somewhat removed from day to day ship operations on those big old carriers as part of the embarked airwing. Gregg Cryderman AQ2, Sundowner form early 1980(s). | |
| Send gregg E-Mail | |
| Don Vaughan from Poteau, OK | |
| how is everyone. has anyone heard from AE Cantrel, AE Smalls. The last thing i heard Cantrel was stationed out of El Toro. If anyone hears from any other Ordies drop me a line. | |
| Send Don E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 5-15-07--I have had pretty good response for some help with money for the renewal of the Web site. Still need $172 to keep it going for another year. Sure hope there are some Sundowners out there willing to contribute to the cause. Orlin Hanson, Sundowner 1953 | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Franklin D. Reed from Jefferson, Oregon | |
| This is a mailing address (PO Box 190), as we live on the road in an RV. I was in VF 111 from 1962 - 1964. I made the first 2 \"Pineapple cruises\" and West Pacs on the Kitty Hawk. I was in the Line Divs and the Plane Captain A/C 105 with Bill Thomas who lives in Tucson, AZ. He retired from the Navy in 1980 (20 Years) and I retired in 1990 (30 Yrs). Gary Kish was the line PO and Gary Borud was the best man at our wedding (Ruth & I) on Aug 15,1964, we have 3 children, and one grandson with a granddaughter on the way. We travel the year around and I would enjoy meeting up with some of my \"old\" shipmates in our travels and currently have plans to see Gary Kish and Gary Borud this year as I have just found them less than a week ago. | |
| Send Franklin D. E-Mail | |
| Kim Viner from Laramie, Wyoming | |
| Should have looked more carefully at the pics on the site. Great collection. | |
| Send Kim E-Mail | |
| Kim Viner from Laramie, Wyoming | |
| Orlin: Noticed that there are not many photos of Sundowner a/c on the site. Maybe Henk would be willing to send you some of the ones he has collected (and we have contributed) so they can be posted. Keep up the good work. p.s. I thought I was crazy retiring to Wyoming after being stationed in so many great place - family you know. How did you decide on ND? | |
| Send Kim E-Mail | |
| Stuart Miller from Inverness, FL | |
| Ams3 Stu Miller Corrosion Control Shop Sundowner 1977-1980. I saw our newest Sundowner at the 2007 MacDill AFB Airfest With the Blues in Tampa. An F-5 with VFC-111 on the side of the aircraft. I didn't get a chance to talk to the pilot. It was nice too see The SUNDOWNERS still around. Also does anybody remember the big leather bound books (2 books) that the skipper had in office it was full of news paper clippings from the beginning to well AUG. of 1980 when i left. Just wanted to now? Our Skippers were CDR.Clift, CDR.Hipper, CDR.Geeding. | |
| Send Stuart E-Mail | |
| Doug Gibbs from Alton, IL | |
| wow a random search to find the this, cool to see some pics of the brids was in VF 111 from 93-95 in AF | |
| Send Doug E-Mail | |
| Brett Millikan from Tucson, Arizona | |
| I am trying to help out the new "Sundowner" squadron with a bit of history. Can anyone tell me the origin of the mascot Omar. Where he came from, how he came to be the mascot? I will be leaving the Air Force full time next week. I will have only limited access to my dm.af.mil email address. Just use the Yahoo address. | |
| Send Brett E-Mail | |
| Adriana Haro-Orlando from Escalon, Ca | |
| My dad H.L. Haro (Larry Haro) was a member of Squadron 111 from 1948 to ? He passed away in 1998. I have the pride of owning his old photos, uniform, flight jacket etc. I am very proud of my dad for all he had accomplished. | |
| Send Adriana E-Mail | |
| Adriana Haro-Orlando from Escalon, Ca | |
| My dad was a member of Squadron 111 from 1948 to ? He passed away in 1998. I have the pride of owning his old photos, uniform, flight jacket etc. I am very proud of my dad for all he had accomplished. | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Check out the FlightLine 2000 for the latest Sundowner planes. | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| larry elliott from st.marys city, md | |
| Served 1986 thru 1990 <<>> Lots Of Fun <> Lots Of Work | |
| Send larry E-Mail | |
| thomas Pinski from , | |
| BRETT Millikin!! send me an email to comm837@swbell.net..seems mine are not getting thru to you for some reason...And do it right away or I willbe foreced to glue your boot to the ceiling again!!! | |
| Robert Mlinar from Cincinnati, Ohio | |
| My cousin Helen Mlinar Quady is the wife of Lt. Frank Quady a member of VF-11. Frank was killed on the USS Bunker Hill 11May45. If anyone has any remembrences of Frank please pass them on. Frank's son, Roy, was born 21Sep44 so would not have any memory of his father. Thank you! | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Brett Millikan from Tucson, AZ | |
| One other thing. I am going to do one of those framed things with all my ranks and decorations for my retirement. I am in need of a AQAN stripe for my project. I would like one that is in mint or like new condition. I have the one on my cracker jacks, but would prefer to not have to take that off the uniform. I would also prefer it to be for the winter uniform as I am using all the dress stripes from the Air Force. | |
| Send Brett E-Mail | |
| Brett Millikan from Tucson, AZ | |
| WHOOOOHOOOOO the Sundowners fly again. Just got home from my 2nd tour in Afghanistan. While waiting to get on the rotater from Manas Airbase in Krgysistan I saw an article that they stood up a new squadron and they are bringing back the Sundowners. Take that you screaming beagles... LOL Anyway, I am starting a new job with the FAA in April and will be leaving the full time Air Force reserve job. I am going to stay in the reserves for 1 year minimumm ,so I can keep my E-7 for retirement, or 2 year maximum. Yeah you read that right.... the old joke telling Millikan made Chief! Not as big of a deal in the Air Force than it was in the Navy. I mean, I am wearing the same uniform that I did as an E-6, just new stripes. The Navy, it is a whole new uniform. I still am in contact with Kevin Peiers. They just live up in Phoenix. Good seeing some familer names still popping up from time to time from the 82-85 time frame. | |
| Send Brett E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| I haven't had to much response from request for some help with money for the renewal of the Web site Sure hope there are some Sundowners out there willing to contribute to the cause. Orlin Hanson, Sundowner 1953 | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| joey marquis from robertsdale, alabama | |
| served with the sundowners 92-decom,AE shop 92-93 westpac,troubleshooter 94 westpac.I joined the army national guard 1 month after leaving the navy in 95,served my last year 04-05 in iraq,quite a change from my navy expriences!!!!I have been in touch with some of the guys from the shop JASON LOWERY,SEAN FALLON DANA MILLER ,JAMES WARNER,AND MY FIREFIGHTER BUDDY IN NYC ED CASSIDY.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL!I would like to get in touch with James (big bird)Bickford and James Daugherty both were AMH2 at the time any info wuold be appriciated.May God bless you all | |
| Send joey E-Mail | |
| SHANAN CARSON from KANSAS CITY, KANSAS | |
| I WAS A SUNDOWNER FROM 87-92.SKIPPERS WERE RAY ROSE,(BEACHBALL)COULDN'T REMEMBER HIS REAL NAME, AND MACKENZIE (STRETCH) I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM SOME OF MY OLD SHIPMATES ESPECIALLY FROM THE AT/AQ SHOP OR IWT. I WAS AN AT3.JUST WENT THRU ALL THE ENTRYS AND SAW SOME FAMILIAR NAMES LIKE AO2 ARNOLD,AT2 DENENEA,AT3 PEMBERTON,AT3 PRALL,AQ1 BURKE, CHIEF (HAPPYROCK) GLADSTONE.SORRY I MISSED THE REUNION IN VEGAS.TRIED TO E-MAIL SOME PEOPLE BUT COULDNT FIGURE IT OUT. REACH ME AT SHANANCARSON@HOTMAIL.COM | |
| Send SHANAN E-Mail | |
| Charlie nagle from Winter Springs, fl | |
| Glad to see that the sundowners have been reformed, will have to go down to key west and vist. | |
| Send Charlie E-Mail | |
| Andrew Liskey from Ft Lauderdale, Fl | |
| As a former sundowner am concerned about the trash being put on this site. Is someone going to get rid of It? | |
| Send Andrew E-Mail | |
| gilbert salazar from san antonio, texas | |
| AD2 Salazar aka SAL (80 to 84) line division USS Kitty Hawk PP shop USS Carl Vinson | |
| Send gilbert E-Mail | |
| Dana Miller from Indianapolis, Indiana | |
| AE Shop 92-95 Living back in Indianapolis working at shop making carbon fiber race car parts. Was living down the street from Handley out in Escondido. Working on moving back out to San Diego. | |
| Send Dana E-Mail | |
| John Parker from south weymouth, Mass | |
| Hey i miss you guys.Had a lot of fun Click the link to see my handy work, The old man must have been bullshit Line/airframes http://tradecorridor.com/sundowners/eighties/VF111.JPG | |
| Send John E-Mail | |
| Richard Thompson from Ukiah, California | |
| hey, what is up people. I want to say hello to all my old shipmates who serve with VF-111 from 1976-80. Especially those who were in the AE shop. Am doing great, am a high school teacher in Ukiah and am back in school working on my computer science degree. I miss the old days with my friends. I heard from Rick Melbye about a month ago, and it was good hear he is doing great. Please contact me at rickbear2001@hotmail.com Richard Thompson | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Steve Smith from Clarkdale, AZ | |
| Squadron OMAR 84-86. Join VF111 in 1980. Plance Captain then went to ORDNANCE Shop. Left Squad as an AO2 in 1986. Went on as SERE Insructor Warner Springs. 81 Kitty Hawk, Carl Vinson World Cruise / WesPac. Miss them old' crazy days. Alpha Stikes in the P.I. LOL Any of you guys remember the Missile we loaded for the movie TOPGUN....Hope Life over the years has been to good to all my past shipmates. Steve | |
| Send Steve E-Mail | |
| Thomas Pinski from Edwardsville, Il | |
| O, and I forgot to add: 1 Cat.....NO TRAP!!!!!! | |
| Send Thomas E-Mail | |
| Thomas Pinski from Edwardsville, IL | |
| OMG! I stumbled across this site and it brought tears to my eyes to see the posts of Sundowners through the ages here in one place! And the funniest thing is: the first post I saw is a Sundowner living in MY small town! I dropped him an email straightaway and waiting to hear back from him. Then I seen the name of one of my most memorable friends from the 81-84 Sundowner timeline..dropped him a line too!!Been looking for him for years. I want to thank each of you that posted here fro taking me back in time to a place where the we had the world by the balls and nothing to fear! I'd love to hear from any of the gang that might remember me, so drop a line..And if you are a Sundowner from another time: ANYTIME, BABY! ex-AQ3 Pinski.. Forever a SUNDOWNER! | |
| Send Thomas E-Mail | |
| Greg Smith from Edwardsville, Illinois | |
| Hello to all my fellow sundowners. AQ2 assigned to the AQ, AT and them IWT team from 85-90. Often known as "Smitty" or to some that required my babysitting in foriegn ports, as "Momma" Hah! those where some fun times. Don't miss the at sea time. Do miss the great people that I had the pleasure of calling Ship Mates during my time in the squadron. Sorry to see it end. But nice to see it carried on here by those who made it the best damn squadron in the navy. | |
| Send Greg E-Mail | |
| joey marquis from robertsdale, alabama | |
| omar lives on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | |
| Send joey E-Mail | |
| George Mullen from Chula Vista, CA | |
| Sundowner from 1993-1995 Decom. Great squadron of warriors. | |
| Send George E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| I haven't had to much response from request for some help with money for the renewal of the Web site Sure hope there are some Sundowners out there willing to contribute to the cause. Orlin Hanson, Sundowner 1953 | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Just got done watching "Mash" show on TV and was wondering if one of our pilots was on the Helicopter. According to my green book that I carried up on the flight deck we had 3 pilots go into emergency field crash land and then I think they were flew to Mash and then back to carrier. Just wondering. | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Ed Cassidy from , Ny | |
| VF-111 Sundowners AE shop from 92 - 95. I am still in contact with alot of the guys, Handley, Miller, Fallon, Lowrey. Anyone out there drop me a line. | |
| Send Ed E-Mail | |
| Bud Kretsinger from Anaheim, CA | |
| All Korean guys........I made contact with "Boxtops." He's still living in Florida. His health is getting better, and he'd like to hear from some of you guys. Give me a call, of drop me an e-mail and I'll give you his address, phone nad e-mail. | |
| Send Bud E-Mail | |
| Jeffrey hayes from , | |
| I would be greatful if you would correct my e-mail adress to jeffrey.a.hayes@boeing.com . Been having some issues . Thanks ,jeff | |
| Don Aksamit from Rothsay, Minnesota | |
| I was a fire control technician with VF-111 during the transition from F-8's to F-4B's and went on one Westpac cruise to Vietnam in 1971 and 1972. I want to thank all who have made this site a part of the Sundowners history. | |
| Send Don E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 1-14-07-- Folks I forgot to put in the original email that I would send a Sundowner cap to anyone who donated $50 or more to renewing the Web site Orlin Hanson | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 1-13-07 Sundowners its that time of the year when the Web site maint.comes due. It costs me $450 per year and we have a $27 credit from last year so we owe $423 for another year. Any of you that might want to donate to the cause could send the check or cash to Orlin Hanson PO Box 28 Sherwood, ND 58782 Thank you | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Julian Hutzler from San Diego, Ca | |
| 1984 to 1987. Those were some of the best times in my life. Just did'nt know it. Still see Tom Bowlen, Jim Louge and Brian Ruhlow every now and again. Hope to see VCF111 when I visit Florida later this month. | |
| Send Julian E-Mail | |
| Tony Longo from Leland, NC 28451 | |
| In VF-111 from 1962-1964. Have many Sundowner photos. | |
| Send Tony E-Mail | |
| orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Just finished watching MASH show on TV. It showed the last get together the day when the Korean War ended July 27, 1953. How excited they were. Couldn't but think of our outfit VF111 on that same afternoon. I remember when Lt JG Bill Finlay landed and got out of his plane and gave me a hug saying "Hanson its over and we are alive" Quite a memory. Our ship wasn't that far from from one of those Mash units. Orlin Hanson, Flight Deck Inspector for the Sundowners 1953 | |
| Send orlin E-Mail | |
| Randi Oothoudt from Minot, ND | |
| 1/5/07 I recently cleaned up the guestbook. There were entries dating back to 1999. I've updated it so that only entries from 2004 and newer show. If you are looking for a paticular person's email that was on the old page please send me an email with the name and I will look through the file and try to find it for you. Randi Oothoudt, Webmaster | |
| Send Randi E-Mail | |
| Richard Thompson from Ukiah, California | |
| hey guys, happy new year, this is Richard Thompson, I served in VF-111 from 76-80. am looking for some old shipmates. Mike "Vinny" Vincent, Mark "OB" OBrian, Ron Hall, Milton Green,, these guys were in the AE shop. another good friend H. "BJ" Bjorgo i think he was Metel shop. If anyone knows were these guys are, please E-Mail me at rickbear2001@hotmail.com Thanks, Rich "Power T." Thompson | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Tony Longo from Leland, NC | |
| VF-111 "Sundowner" CAG-11 USS. Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) 1962-63 and 1963-64 cruises. | |
| Send Tony E-Mail | |
| Robert Owens from Milwaukee, WI | |
| Sundowner from 89-92. AQ3 Started in the Line, moved to IWT, then became a troubleshooter. I was the one dumb enough to get a tattoo on my ear, that's what I get for hanging with Pemberton I guess. Changed rates to GSE and left the aviation community. Being a black shoe was not nearly as fun, but nothing could top hanging with Atrocity Bob and those antics like spray painting an Omar on the deck of some other squadren in Norfolk the night before we left on the Kitty Hawk. | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| robert thoms from ocean, nj | |
| ex parachute rigger | |
| Send robert E-Mail | |
| James { Ben } Bennett from Moulton, Alabama | |
| I saw Pete {Brandon Petersen} signed in.We were talking the other day and he told me about this sight.I was with VF-111 from 74-78 and worked in the seat shop with Pete and to name a few others Dennis Collier,Herb,Melbye. I stayed in the NAVY and retired in 1993,Yes, I made 20 years in the NAVY. WOW!!!! | |
| Send James { Ben } E-Mail | |
| james davis from hope, ks | |
| i was a sundowner from 63 to dec 66. i was a ame in the seat shop. i made 3 cruses with the sundowners. first on the kittyhawk then the midway and on the oriskany when she caught fire. it is good to see that there is so much responce to your web site. i will be checking in now and again to see how you all are doing. hail omar | |
| Send james E-Mail | |
| Richard Thompson from Ukiah, California | |
| This is Richard Thompson who was in VF-111 from 1976-80. anyone want to contact me. my E-Mail is rickbear2001@hotmail.com feel free to do so. I think of those times when I was young and full of life. now at 48 wow time does fly and doing great, I teach at my local high school. and if it were not for the Navy. i never would have been able to do this great job. VF - 111 taught me to grow up will take care hope to hear from my old shipmates. Rich | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Charles Nagle from Winter Springs, fl | |
| To all sundowners, another year is coming to an end just would like to wish everyone a happy holidays season, and remmber our fellow servicemen and woman in harms way. | |
| Send Charles E-Mail | |
| David Knight from Billingham, uk | |
| great! more pics! | |
| Send David E-Mail | |
| Darren Roberts from Olathe, KS | |
| I came across this site while doing research for a project. If you aren't aware, the Sundowners have been re-established as VFC-111. They will be flying F-5 Tiger II's out of Key West and will be tasked with an adversary role. They have been granted permission to have the full sunburst on the CAG jet's tail. Here is where I need your help. I've been commissioned by the squadron CO to make a plaque which shows the tails of all the aircraft the Sundowners have flown. I have good references of what was on the tails of the jets, but haven't been able to find good pictures of the tails of the Wildcats and Hellcats. From what I've seen, there isn't much, but I want to get it right. Thanks for any help you can give me. If you are interested in a plaque, you may also email (if that's acceptable) and I can send you a picture of it. | |
| Send Darren E-Mail | |
| Bob Ratigan from Jupiter, fl | |
| Three of my most favorite years in life...1982 - 1985 as a member of VF111 "the sundowners" abooard the Carl Vinson CVN70. Great group of guys. Terrible poker players though!!!hahaha | |
| Send Bob E-Mail | |
| Jason "Ace" Lowrey from Newnan, GA | |
| NEW email address. Where are all the Electricians from 89-93? Would love to get in contact with you all from the shop. Take care guys and email me sometime. AE3 Jason "Ace" Lowrey | |
| Send Jason "Ace" E-Mail | |
| BRANDON PETERSEN from PINE GROVE, CA | |
| AME VF-111 74-78 . I SAW THAT LONNIE PARDUN SIGNED IN AND RICK MELBYE, PLEASE E MAIL DO TO I CAN'T SEEM TO BEABLE TO E MAIL OUT AT THIS MONMENT. SUNDOWNERS FOREVER BRANDON PETERSEN AKA PETE OR CUZ I THOUGHT I WAS COOL, AKA BABS (BAD ASS BRANDON) | |
| Send BRANDON E-Mail | |
| Jeffrey Hayes from Ofallon, Mo | |
| 1978-1982 I was an AMS,first in the line div.then the airframes shop. | |
| Send Jeffrey E-Mail | |
| David Wharton from Springtown, TX | |
| VF-111 is back as VCF-111, part of CVWR-20 stationed in Key West FL. | |
| Send David E-Mail | |
| Henk "Omar" van der Lugt from , | |
| Hello SunDowners , I have good news , there is a distinct possibility that the SunDowners will return , the Adversary Detachment of VFC-13 at NAS Key West will become a new squadron , it will be designated or established as VFC-111 SunDowners !! I have not seen an official announcement but my source is a serious one! How about that SunDowners of all ages....???? OMAR Sez : SunDowners 4 ever !! Greetings from the SunDowner Historian Henk "Omar" | |
| Send Henk "Omar" E-Mail | |
| David Baker from Aalborg, Denmark | |
| I have atreasured model that has been with me for years alla round the world of a Sundowners F4 Phantom. It is designated 3012/200 from the USS Roosevelt and is piloted by CAG Pedersen and RIO is named Becker. Can anyone tell me about these two people and anything interssting behind this aircraft... it's kind of becomne a talisman and sits here in my office in Denmark. | |
| Send David E-Mail | |
| Matthew Giglio from Chester, New York | |
| Worked in line from 90-91. AD shop in 92. Hey fellow Sundowners. hope everyone is doing well. Will go to one of these reunions one day now that i found this site. Navy reserves with CVN-71 Nov 92 - Oct 98. Currently in Air National Guard since 98. Just reenlisted for 6 yrs for a total of 23 yrs of service. Health & happiness to all. | |
| Send Matthew E-Mail | |
| don stine from white city, or | |
| Recently a friend of mine's father passed away. his name was paul humbertand served as a pilot during WWII. His son has pictures& other items he would like to donate to someone who might be interested. If anyone knows more about this squadron during the pacific please contact me. | |
| Send don E-Mail | |
| michael moranville jr from galveston, texas | |
| Horace Blake "Rabbit" Moranville was my grandfather. I am writing a story about him and his fellow Sundowners, so if anyone can help me I would greatly appreciate it. Michael Blake Moranville Jr. | |
| Send michael E-Mail | |
| Laura Willis from Huntington Beach, California | |
| During the 50's I was a civilian employee at BuPers in Washington, D. C. Lt. Cdr. Doyle W. "Bud" Lynn did a tour of duty in the same office. He was a fine human being. I became aquainted with his immediate family as well as his extended family. Does anyone know if Dottie Lynn (Bud's widow)still resides in the Pensacola,Fl.area? | |
| Send Laura E-Mail | |
| Robert Davis from Houston, Texas | |
| Vf111 from 61-65 Ae3 | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Brendon Lynn from Middlefield, Connecticut | |
| Great little website. My great uncle is/was Commander Doyle W. Lynn. And if you want any exact info, he was shot down over Nghe An, North Vietnam, near the city of Vinh, on May 27, 1965. | |
| Send Brendon E-Mail | |
| Gary " Andy " Capps from Boise, Idaho | |
| Howdy guys!!! Been a long time since the Tico cruise of "69" and the Shang cruise of "70". Enjoyed reading the article about the Shang cruise. I miss the old days and old people. I was final checker and AMH2 with VFP-63 on both cruises. I'm in contact with C A Simpson, Sjuggerud, Bob Flavell, and Ed Velasquez. | |
| Send Gary " Andy " E-Mail | |
| Greg Knapp from Oakdale, MN | |
| I was a proud member of VF-111 from July 1973 to May 1976. Long live Omar! | |
| Send Greg E-Mail | |
| Phil Brunson from Las Vegas, NV | |
| Sorry I did not get over to see you guys in vegas. I was in Reno for the ballon race. ( http://cyberomar.com/photo/main.php?g2_itemId=1414 ). If any other sundowners are coming to Vegas, please e-mail me. I also work at a casino and can see what room rates can be. Question to everyone, would anyone be interested in a meeting in Vegas? Every sundowner & spouse would be welcome. E-mail me and let me know. Phil Brunson, AE Shop 93-Decom | |
| Send Phil E-Mail | |
| TIM SELLS from AKRON, OH | |
| I THINK THIS GUEST BOOK IS VERY COOL, HAS ANYBODY HEARD FROM PETRETIC ,CANTRELL ANYBODY FROM AE OR LINE SHACK I WAS N BOTH. SUNDOWNERS FOREVER AO3 HILLARD WHATS UP. U GUYS PROBABLY KNOW AS SOUPIE SALES. | |
| Send TIM E-Mail | |
| james warner from fort hood, texas | |
| Hello to all, Just wanted to say hello to all the guys I served with from 91-94 AE's and AT's I did get it contact with a few guys here Colvin and Romerero. I am in Iraq now working for the army now for about 7 years now feels like I am in the service again with all this traveling ! I hope everyone is well and best wishes to all please feel free to contact me because it does get boring here in Iraq . I did see they retired the tomcat what a shame it was the best fighter in the fleet ! | |
| Send james E-Mail | |
| Tim sells from akron, OH | |
| HEY LOWERY, FALLON GLAD TO C U GUYS R DOING WELL. HAS ANYBODY HERD FROM AE3 SMALLS OR ANY OF THE OTHER AE'S. I SERVED W/ U GUYS FROM 88 TO 92, I HOPE U GUYS MIGHT REMEMBER ME. ANY SUNDOWNERS 4 THAT MATTER. | |
| Send Tim E-Mail | |
| Brett Millikan from Tucson, AZ | |
| Just checking in again. Seeing some new and familier names on the boards. Hi to Eggs, Dream, McCurley, and Cryderman. I remember dream and puppy each keeping a HUGE speaker bought at the far east trader in the PI in their staterooms for me on the way home from the last westpac. Gregg, I remember drinking bananna dacquris at mountain top on the work ups for the world cruise. I think that was just before you got out. I am still in the military. I am in the Air Force reserve as a WG-12 civil service employee. I finally made E-7. Who would have ever thought...the jokeman Millikan making Chief!!! If any 82-85 sundowner is in the Tucson area ... drop me a line. | |
| Send Brett E-Mail | |
| Stephen (Kopper) Ossenkop from Mt Vernon, Iowa | |
| Just wanted to send a quick reminder out to everyone: This Friday, September 8th, 2006. Any Sundowners from 1991-Decom. The IWT (AT) shop is having a reunion in Las Vegas. We will be meeting at Blondies in the Aladdin hotel at 7:00 pm that night. I hope to see a lot of my former squadron mates there. So AE's, AF's, Mech's, Maint Control, etc. Hopefully we will see you there! Kopper (AT2 Ossenkop) | |
| Send Stephen (Kopper) E-Mail | |
| Bruce Harris from San Marco, CA | |
| Still hangen around, and greatful for it! 73-76 Sundowner. Flew around alot with Spike looking over my shoulder. I scared us both!! Even flamed out once in de-arming at Cubi! Retired last year after 29 yrs. as Delta Airlines pilot. Great to see the site still up and running! I'm proud to have been associated with all of you fine men! | |
| Send Bruce E-Mail | |
| Ilmo Wiebach from Wangerooge, Germany | |
| Hello! For Fans of the "Sundowners" F-14A Tomcat look for the "hasegawa 1/72 Model"! It´s fantastic detailed! Best regards from Germany - Ilmo Wiebach | |
| Send Ilmo E-Mail | |
| Hunter Brown from Lewisburg, TN | |
| My step father, Homer A. (Hank) Winter, was the squadron commander in 1961. He currently lives in SC and is doing well. | |
| Send Hunter E-Mail | |
| CDR Bill Freckleton from Palmdale, CA | |
| Let's keep this website going. Let's not forget thte Sundowners and all who served! Bill...11 Aug 2006 | |
| Send CDR Bill E-Mail | |
| Eric Mayoka from Saratoga Springs, New York | |
| I was in contact with some of the guys from 1970-1974 I moved and lost contact hoping to hook up again.I was part of the line crew .Mouse | |
| Send Eric E-Mail | |
| Bud Kretsinger from Anaheim, CA | |
| Does anyone have any idea who these sick S.O.B.'s are, that are advertising this pornographic junk? I wonder if there might be some violation of law, considering the content? Anyone know? | |
| Send Bud E-Mail | |
| Paul Riffe from Auburn, WA | |
| Sundowner from Oct 66 to Sept 69 | |
| Send Paul E-Mail | |
| Stephen Ossenkop from North Liberty, IA | |
| Just wanted to remind everyone from the 1991 - 1995 VF-111 IWT shop and any others, AE's, Airframers, Mech's, Maint Control that we are planning on meeting in Las Vegas Friday, September 8th at 7:00 pm at Blondies Sports Bar and Grill in the Aladdin Hotel and Casino. We will do the normal meet and greet, very casual, bring wives, kids, whomever. We will them plan something for Saturday night as well. If you have any questions, shoot me an email. | |
| Send Stephen E-Mail | |
| Doug Pratt from Ashland, Wi | |
| VF-111 1972-1975 AQ2 Served in AQ and AT shops aboard Coral Sea CVA-43 Looking for any scanned e-photos of our Sundowners F4's from 73 + 75 cruises to add to my screen saver Pls email, do not send more then 1 or 2 at a time. Our computer is super slow. thanx in advance Doug Pratt | |
| Send Doug E-Mail | |
| Bud Kretsinger from Anaheim, CA | |
| I received this from Henk van der Lugt, (Omar) Sundowner historian. Dear Sundowners f all time. My name is Henk van der Lugt, and I am the Sundowner Historian since the 1996 reunion in Pensacola. You can ask Tim Enander and Bud Kretsinger about this. This is actually a distress call for all of you, to look for your Sundowner items which are lying in cellars and lofts, boxes and cupboards, waiting to be damamged by moisture and/or rodents. It is much better to send it to me. I will take care of it and archive it. Lateron it can be used as a reference for future Sundowner book, which I am plannng to write. For the Sundowners of the last years, this is an SOS. 1993, 94, and the last 3 months of 95, (the last cruise), please send me your Sundowner things, because, although I was at the disestablishing ceremony at NAS Miramar, (16 Feb 1995), I came to the conclusion I have nothing, or little information from that period. If you have Sundowner News;etters, logbook pages, photos/slides, patches or anything else connected to the Sundowners, please donate to me, the Sundowners Historian, so that we keep the memories to such a great Fighter Squadron, and of course, "OMAR." Henk van der Lugt "oldnick@multiweb.nl" | |
| Send Bud E-Mail | |
| Dwight (IKE) Saville from Oak Harbor, WA | |
| Anyone seen or heard fro JT Loy lately would be interested in contacting him..."SUNDOWNERS FOR LIFE" "DIRTY DOZEN FOR LIFE" | |
| Send Dwight (IKE) E-Mail | |
| Jason "Ace" Lowery from Newnan, GA | |
| I'm losing contact with some of my Electrician buddy's. Here is my new email address. Use it.... please. Jason "Ace" Lowrey AE3 1989-1993 | |
| Send Jason "Ace" E-Mail | |
| Chris McCurley from Cherokee, California | |
| parachute rigger, VF111, world cruise and west-pac aboard Chucky Vee, great times. Where's Potts, Schultz, Walker, Carlos, Travers, Parker? | |
| Send Chris E-Mail | |
| Tom Travers from Norton, MA | |
| Proud to be a friend of CPT Chuck "Stinger" Dimon, former CO of VF111. You guys are the Real Deal !! Thanks to ALL of you for your heroic service to this great United States of America! | |
| Send Tom E-Mail | |
| Joe 'P" Pasalich from San Diego, CA | |
| The 'P' in the Group of three. There was Chief 'P' George(AQC), 'P' Joe the (AT) and little 'P' Jim. At lest one of us served with VF-111 from 1969 to 1981. VF-111 was the Pasalich Family tradition. It was the tour to remember. | |
| Send Joe 'P" E-Mail | |
| Don Harpold from Vista,, CA | |
| This is an email update for me. I served with the Sundowners from '62-'65 onboard Kitty Hawk & MIdway. | |
| Send Don E-Mail | |
| Gregg Cryderman from Taipei, Taiwan | |
| For you Mighty 'O' sailors if you have not seen this web sight yet. http://www.navytimes.com/content/static/oriskany051706.php Back in the Western Pacific myself for a short tour for Boeing. Staying in Taiwan for three months and what memories are coming to mind. It would appear that a filter for this guest book is required after looking at some of the recent postings! Have an appropriate Memorial Day Holiday! dsai-jian Gregg Cryderman | |
| Send Gregg E-Mail | |
| Manny " XMan" Extramil from Miami, Fl | |
| '87-91' This web site brings back some great and wild memories , I hope everyone is doing great drop me a line | |
| Send Manny " XMan" E-Mail | |
| Ronald Romero from Layton, Ut | |
| Previous submission has me listed as Ronale, I was the AE nightshit supervisor. I joined the squadron in November of 94 and left after the cruise in March of 95. If you remember me drop me a line. | |
| Send Ronald E-Mail | |
| Billy Coble from pensacola, fl | |
| i am looking for someone you new my dad he served on the oriskany in 1967 westpac. if any one can help please email me | |
| Send Billy E-Mail | |
| Don "Dutch" Schulze from Nashville, TN | |
| Served with VF-111 from '75-'78 and as stated before "Once a Sundowner-Always a Sundowner". I would just like to add, that thanks to this website it put me back in touch with my best friend thru high school. We actually joined the Navy together, he went to Norfolk, me obviously to San Diego. Anyway instead of checking some place logical, like classmates.com, he remembered the squadron I was attached to. I have also received a few e-mails from fellow squadronmates, most notably one of the C.O.'s during that time frame, John Brickner (who also sent along a nice picture). I also did a breif stint with VF-121 the Pacemakers, but I'll ALWAYS be a Sundowner :) | |
| Send Don "Dutch" E-Mail | |
| Victor Riley from Spicewood, Texas | |
| I'm glad I ran into this site. I served in VF-111 on the Kitty Hawk, '64 and Midway, '65 as an F8 pilot. This gives me a chance to thank all the great guys that busted their rears every minute of every day to get those birds in the sky. Thanks guys, I'm proud to have served with you. VIC | |
| Send Victor E-Mail | |
| Chris McCurley from Cherokee, Ca | |
| Why do my messages keep disappearing? Made Carl Vinson World Cruise and WESTPAC. | |
| Send Chris E-Mail | |
| Michael Smith from Culpeper, Virginia | |
| Retired Navy, COMPATWINGS PAC, Feb 1980-Jan 1996. Four Years Air Force, 341st Strategic Missle Wing, Great Falls Montana, 1975-1979. 9.11.2001, working for the National Guard four blocks from Pentagon. Been here ever since support the National Guard. Supporting our Guard and Reserve troops at home and in distant lands. Very nice site. | |
| Send Michael E-Mail | |
| Dan Parker from Warrenton, Virginia | |
| Looking for help in finding an old friend, Ken Mattson. Ken flew the F-8 and I believe made a VF-111 cruise around 1970. I was in VF-213 at the time on the Kittyhawk. Please pass my email to anyone you might think can help. Ken and I go back to when our fathers were stationed at Pt. Mugu. Thanks, Dan | |
| Send Dan E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 5-1-06 Thought let you know the Web site is paid for. Thanks to all of you who donated the funds to pay for it. Good for another year. Orlin Web site caretaker | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Eggs Benedict from Sequi, WA | |
| Sundowner from 1982-1986 1st & 2nd Carl Vinson Cruises. Anybody know where Tim Enander is these days? -eggs | |
| Send Eggs E-Mail | |
| Robert Foster from Ewa Beach, HI | |
| 4/22/06 Fellow "Sundowners" - I have been searching high & low for the small Sundowner logo that is on your plastic red name plate that you would wear on a working uniform ie. tropical whites. I will pay for this if you send me one in good condition. I have lost mine and would like to replace it. I only had one and some of you may have more than one and wouldn't mind parting with one for some cash. Give me a holler via e-mail to negotiate your fee. Much aloha! Robert Foster | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Bud Kretsinger from Anaheim, Ca | |
| Just curious as all get out, Orlin. Who is the mystery "OMAR" that's trying to educate those from New York. That's hilarious! Tried to "talk" to him, but he doesn't answer. no such person? | |
| Send Bud E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 4-23-06-- Thanks Omar for your message. I feel the same way you do. If you can't leave a sensible message don't sign on. To all of you we have our Web Page just about paid for. Short about $25 to finish it. Thanks to you all. | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Bob Russell from Romona, CA | |
| Sundowner from 1989 to 1992, Power Plants and QAR. I made the 1990 cruise on "Chucky V" and brought the Kitty Hawk back to San Diego in 91'. | |
| Send Bob E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| 4-8-06-- Still need some donations to keep this site going. Anyone donating $50 or more I will send them a Sundowner cap free. Orlin Hanson, Sundowner 1953 Korea | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Kenneth Lovell from Irving, Texas | |
| was in vf-111 ordnance 1971--74. would like to hear from anyone in vf-111 during that time | |
| Send Kenneth E-Mail | |
| Billy Adams from , Arkansas | |
| It's great to see the site is still here. Loved my time with the Sundowners 1986-1989 line shack. Drop me a line if anyone remembers me. LONG LIVE OMAR!! | |
| Send Billy E-Mail | |
| Sam Tucker from Prairie Village, KS | |
| I ran the AQ shop during the Shangri La cruise. The Officer in charge was LTJG Brian Wagner. I often wondered how everyone did after I mustered out, but fell out of touch with all but one shipmate. That was definitely a memorable cruise on a tired old ship, but she managed to get through it and get us home. | |
| Send Sam E-Mail | |
| Jim "Dream" Weaver from Colorado Springs, CO | |
| Sundowner 82-85. 2 cruises/300 traps on Carl Vinson. | |
| Send Jim "Dream" E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Folks its that time of the year when our Sundowner Website needs renewing. Any help you can give me would be appreciated. Send check to Orlin Hanson, Box 28 Sherwood, ND. 58782 Need help soon Cost is $450 for one year have $190 raised so far. | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| Trent Kerbs from Moore, OK | |
| Send Trent E-Mail | |
| Gregg Cryderman from Kirkland, Wa | |
| For those involed with the F14, A caption from the on-line Navy Times Photos of the day for March 13; 'VFVF-31’s return marks the end of the final deployment for the venerable F-14 Tomcat. The aircraft will be removed from service and officially stricken from the inventory in September'. | |
| Send Gregg E-Mail | |
| Robert Davis from San Diego, California | |
| A former AD in VF-111 from 93-95, Still on active duty in sunny San Diego. I was on 93 and 94 cruise on the Kitty Hawk. | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Stephen Ossenkop from North Liberty, IA | |
| The VF-111 IWT shop members from 1991 - 1995 are planning a reunion in Las Vegas the weekend of September 9th, 2006. Any other VF-111 members (AE's/AO's/Airframers/Maint Control, etc.) from the era if you'd like to come, please do. It would be good to see a lot of former Sundowners. Right now the official meeting place has not been set but the date is firm. Check back soon for the meeting place. For more information email me. Also looking for former IWT members who I have not contacted yet, if you see this shoot me an email. Stephen Ossenkop "kopper" (AT2 - VF-111 from 1991 - 1995) | |
| Send Stephen E-Mail | |
| Jason "Ace" Lowrey from Newnan, GA | |
| Whats up Sundowners from the past. I have not heard from my AE boys in a long time. Send me an email. AE Shop 1989 to 1993 | |
| Send Jason "Ace" E-Mail | |
| Orlin Hanson from Sherwood, ND | |
| Folks its that time of the year when our Sundowner Website needs renewing. Any help you can give me would be appreciated. Send check to Orlin Hanson, Box 28 Sherwood, ND. 58782 | |
| Send Orlin E-Mail | |
| chris mccurley from cherokee, ca | |
| saw some familiar names of some chucky v world cruisers | |
| Send chris E-Mail | |
| Ron Lewis from San Diego, CA | |
| Hmmm... 1985 to 1998. Wow, I enjoyed my tour, but not that much! It should have read: 1985 to 1989. | |
| Send Ron E-Mail | |
| Ron Lewis from San Diego, CA | |
| VF-111 (1985 to 1998). I received many emails from old friends since signing the guestbook. Figured I would update my address. Hope ya' all are in good health and enjoying life. Ron Lewis | |
| Send Ron E-Mail | |
| Bryan Rollins from Murrieta, California | |
| Send Bryan E-Mail | |
| Aaron Gregonis from Hannibal, Missouri | |
| I was an AT from 90-93 | |
| Send Aaron E-Mail | |
| Steve Durham from Roanoke, Va | |
| VF-111 79-82. Anybody remember me. Anybody no where Breeze is? Send me an e-mail. OMAR! | |
| Send Steve E-Mail | |
| Rob Foster from Ewa Beach, Hawaii | |
| Line Div/AE/PH - 84-88 VF-111 was my first command, a lot of GREAT memories. 21+ years later I am now retired. Long live OMAR. If the name looks familiar, shoot me an e-mail. | |
| Send Rob E-Mail | |
| Tim Doering from Rustburg, Va. | |
| Hi guys. 62 through 65 3 westpacs Long time ago, 40 years Hope you are all doing well. TIM | |
| Send Tim E-Mail | |
| Al Aston from Gorham, ME | |
| Tom Garrett called me last night (1/5/06) to tell me that J. Meadows (Harding Joel Meadows III) died very recently from complicatons of diabetes which he contracted shortly after leaving VF 111 for VF 124 in 1968. J. really never stopped flying the F8 and I am sure he now has one that can accelerate while standing on its tail or in a 6.4 (or was it 7.4) G turn. If ever anyone was proud to be a Sundowner it was J. Good bye my friend, I'm sure I'll be at your six again sometime. (in my dreams?) | |
| Send Al E-Mail | |
| Brett Millikan from Tucson, Arizona | |
| Well made it back again from the Mid-east. This time I was in Afghanistan. Just checked the boards and am seeing more and more of the early 80s Sundowners checking in. Drop me a line sometime. | |
| Send Brett E-Mail | |
| Robert LeBrun from Norwalk, Ct. | |
| Served as AD2 1949-1952, Korean cruises on Valley Forge and the Philippine Sea.Stationed at North Island and Miramar | |
| Send Robert E-Mail | |
| Ronale Romero from Layton, Utah | |
| Sun Downer 94-95 | |
| Send Ronale E-Mail | |
| Richard Melbye from Outaways, Minnesota | |
| I served with the Sundowners from March 1973 until late 1980. I was Omar for a spell. I made the 74/75 Westpac on the Coral Sea and the Med cruise on the Roosevelt. Transitioned from F4's to F14's and flew back with AO2 Waren from the Indian ocean after the hostages were taken in Iran. I worked as a Plane Captain, in powerplants and Troubleshooters. Has anybody seen or heard from Bobby Green or the Cookie Monster (Martin Cook)? I think of my Sundowner days often. They were some good times. If you remember me send me an e-mail. | |
| Send Richard E-Mail | |
| Richmond Blake from Idyllwild, California | |
| I guess once a Sundowner always a Sundowner. I served in eight squadrons in twenty years of Naval service. I was a Sundowner from 1977-1980 and those were some of my best time in the Navy. I'm looking for three Ex-Sundowners from the late 80's who worked for me in VF-124 powerplant. AD2 Steve Hudson,AD2 Tosh Maddox and AD2 Mike Boles. If anyone knows the were about of these three please contact AD1(ret) Blake. Hello to all Ex-Sundowners. | |
| Send Richmond E-Mail | |
| Peter Hillard from San Diego, CA | |
| Hey you Sundowners I served from 1989-2002, most of you knew me as "STAB" LOL. AO3 Hillard for the rest. Man I really miss the good old days. I am so happy I found this site. ROMIE and Colvin give me a holla when you can. I will always remember the good times shared. Keep in touch. | |
| Send Peter E-Mail | |
| Kevin Killacky from San Diego, CA | |
| Don't know why I googled the old squadron. Curious I guess. Hello to all the guys who remember me. | |
| Send Kevin E-Mail | |
| Jason "Ace" Lowrey from Newnan, Georgia | |
| AE Shop 1990-1993 I now live outside Atlanta, GA as an airline pilot (captain) for Atlantic Southeast Airlines. It's better flying them instead of fixing them. Email me. Take care all. | |
| Send Jason "Ace" E-Mail | |
| Butch eisenbarth from Grand Forks, ND | |
| Hi guys. Served in 111 81-83.Line shack and AD shop.Did the round the world on the Vinson.Breaks my heart to hear the ship now refferd to as old.How come no one ever mentions Smitty? Line shack boss? Pain in our ass.But kept us alive.He was a good man.Anyone know of Andy Yerman these days? | |