26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron

Air Force BBS

Legacy Messages - 1995-1999

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Gerard Massa wrote on July 8, 2021

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City and State: SLIDELL LA

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: 1951-53

Comments: Looking for stories from any of the air force 26th fighter Interceptor Sqdn. AIr Craft mechanic group at NAHA. Turning 91 wondering if any of the fellows are still around.

Keywords: 26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron 1951-53 NAHA

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Gerard Massa wrote on July 8, 2021

Send Email To GERARD MASSA

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City and State: SLIDELL LA

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: 1951-53

Comments: Looking for stories from any of the air force 26th AIr Craft mechanic group at NAHA. Turning 91 wondering if any of the fellows are still around.

Keywords: 26th Fighter Squadron 1951-53 NAHA

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Robert Eskeitz wrote on March 23, 2021

Send Email To ROBERT ESKEITZ

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City and State: SPRING HILL FL

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: Jet Engine Tech

Comments:

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Doug Kottraba III wrote on December 11, 2016

Email Update Needed

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City and State: NV

Unit: 26 WEAPONS SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: My name is Captain Doug Postal Kottraba and I am an instructor pilot in the 26th Weapons Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base Nevada. The 26th Weapons Squadron was activated on 18 Sep 2008 and the 26th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron is part of our lineage. The 26th is currently part of the USAF Weapons School where we host the MQ-9 Reaper Weapons Instructor Course and the Sensor Operator Advanced Instructor Course. The squadron has recently moved into a new building and we are looking for historical artifacts that display our heritage. If you have anything relating to the 26th that you are willing to part ways with we would be proud to display it at the 26th Weapons Squadron. Please contact me at Douglas.Kottraba.1@us.af.mil if you are interested in helping.

Thank you,

Doug Postal Kottraba, Capt, USAF
26 WPS

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Kenneth Benner wrote on September 7, 2013

Email Update Needed

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City and State: NEKOOSA WI

Unit: 26TH FTR. SQUDRON

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments:

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Carl Sorensen wrote on December 31, 2012

Send Email To CARL SORENSEN

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City and State: REDONDO BEACH CA

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Responding to entry site 81104 from Richard
Sanderson: Haven't checked this site in a while - I
am Carl Sorensen and was assigned to 26th FIS from Nov.
1951 to Nov. 53 as a pencil pusher in the Orderly
Room. Well liked Maj. Claude Hanley was indeed the
C.O. and being from Texas, when his tour was up
requested a Texas assignment (which most airmen
avoided) and wound up in Preque Isle AFB, ME - typical
military logic! Gus Gustafson was the First Shirt ( and
reportedly died of cirrhosis) and I worked with Sal.
Don Annin and I wound up in the same unit at Lowry AFB,
Colo. and he married student nurse from Nebraska who
was studying in Denver - later became a California
Highway Patrolman, retired to Grass Valley, CA, where
he died. My last C.O. on Okinawa was Col. Frederick
Ploetz who was also the Yontan AB commander -
interesting aside is that he had served with the 51st
Fighter Group in China during WW II.
Discharged from the AF in April 1955 and returned to
civilian life.

Keywords: F-80s - Naha and Yontan AB, Okinawa

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Leonard Pickhartz wrote on May 20, 2012

Send Email To LEONARD PICKHARTZ

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Assigned to the electrical shop in 51 and departed in 53.
The 26th did not deploy to Korea but trained Pilots for the 2 units in
Korea.
I remember Van Dyke from the arm shop and rode with him up north with
those on there Triumphs. Bob Hope Inst man was one.
I left the AF in 53 and joined the Army in 57. Spent 22 years in Aviation
with 2 tours in RVN with Chinooks and 1 tour with a Direct Support
Company. Retired in 79 as a CSM.
Went back to Okinawa in 78 for a couple of hours and that ws enough.

Keywords: NAHA/YONTAN

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David Christensen wrote on February 20, 2012

Email Update Needed

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Interested Person

Comments: I am an active duty Army SGT who is trying to help my
wife solve a family mystery. My wifes grandmother
was a native from the Philippines and all taht was
passed down to her mother was that while working as a
cocktail waitress at Clark AFB, she met a man who was
in the AF and that his name may have been Richard or
Dick M. Mold. He was from Florida according to
her. Her Grandmothers name was Angie McGee and she
became pregnant around October 1957, while working on
the base. Any information that can help my wife would
be greatly appreciate.

Keywords:

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Richard Sanderson wrote on November 19, 2011

Send Email To RICHARD SANDERSON

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City and State: NEW HAMPTON NH

Unit: LONG RETIRED

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: I am Richard M Sanderson, CMS/USAF(Ret) - enlisted 29
December 1950, retired 1 November 1977. I was with the
26th FIS from January 1952 through December 1953. We
were at Naha in 1952 and moved up to Yontan in early
1953, I think. I went to Okinawa courtesy of the USS
Breckenridge and returned on the USS Mitchell (or the
other way around, just can't remember) - a fourteen day
cruise each way I would prefer to forget. I went over
an E3 and came home an E5. An armament technician, I
was the A flight armament chief. Major Claude Hanley
was CO in 1953 and MSgt Gustafson was First Sergeant -
Sal somebody was Clerk. Some of the guys in armament
were Annin, Beck, Dowling, Allen, Thrasher, Saunooke,
Givant, Price, Stewart, Orndorff, Holley, CWO Chieffo -
and a whole bunch more...great guys all. Some of the
Engineering guys were Harrison, Holmstrom, Gregory,
Hill, Dohl - too many to remember. At Naha we walked to
work crossing the runway which meant we had to wait for
the green light from the tower. The 4th FIS was at the
other end of the runway, flying the twin P-51 until
they entered the jet age with the F-94, a step above
our trusty old F-80's, first jet fighter in the USAF's
arsenal. Had one earthquake tremor in 1953 - thought
someone was shaking my bunk in the quonset hut I called
home. Don Annin and I rode a Harley74 up to the very
northern end of the island and spent three or four days
trudging across the land, visiting little villages
where we were the talk of the town for some time.
Nobody ever went up there. We carried 45's and shot a
couple of those ugly snakes along the way - not for
food but for survival. Heard enough? I could go on.
All those guys are now either dead or very very old -
but not me. This 81 year young old phart has greatly
enjoyed this bit of reminiscing as I open up my old
photo albums and remember the (believe it or not) good
old days. The 26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron was
the best of them all. Sayonnara.

Keywords: A Flight armament chief

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Louise M. Jones wrote on March 11, 2011

Send Email To LOUISE M. JONES

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City and State: FORNEY TX

Unit: 3501ST, FIELD MAINT.

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: looking for pictures of Hospital where my son was born Aug 17th, 1957 deliverd by Dr. King. Navy I Believe. would like any info from the Island during this period, friends Sgt and Mrs Don(Corine) Thomas, Sgt Fred 7Mrs( Ilene) Berry , Sht and Mrs Boyd (Mary) Louk (Army) childdren of these couple woild be Melody and Donna Thomas, Fred and Nancy Berry,

Keywords: None was a dependent 1955-1957 went over by Ship in about 12-55

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Clarence Botts wrote on July 10, 2010

Deceased

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City and State: LAWRENCE KS

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: I'm looking for a 26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron patch "Tiger on a Mustang." Does anyone know where I can purchase one?

I was stationed at Clark 1958-1960 as an instrument and automatic pilot technician. I would be pleased to hear from anyone stationed at Clark during that time period.

Keywords: Gene Botts

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Roberto Ontiveros SR. wrote on December 8, 2009

Send Email To ROBERTO ONTIVEROS

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City and State: HOUSTON TX

Unit: 26TH FIS CLARK AFB

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Would like to hear from anyone who remembers me. e-mail me at this address.I was with 25th from 1957-1959.Lots of memories and good times in the PIIf anyone has a patch from the 26th make picture and send to me i can have patches made.

Keywords: Angeles Pampanga, Mama Julies Bar.

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Steven Jackson wrote on April 10, 2009

Email Update Needed

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Interested Person

Comments: Found Philipino 10 Centavo note with "Jerry Barnett 26th FIS" typed on face. Just received this awesome case of old coins, MPC's etc.. from my granddad's house - Harold D Jackson Sr. - Last Residence Myrtle Beach, SC.

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Michael Kessler-Bodette wrote on September 9, 2008

Email Update Needed

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City and State: MIDWEST CITY OK

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Other

Comments: Recently found this web site, very excited to read the messages about the 26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron. My father 1Lt Arthur A Bodette was assigned to this squadron about Dec 1955 I believe. He was flying in a Memorial Day flyby when for some reason his aircraft fell out of formation crashed on Clark killing him instantly and depriving a four year old son of his father. The other men that were flying with him that day included Capt Freeman, 1Lt Ohlinger?, Capt Derby, 1Lt Zander and 1Lt Hammarle?. Maintenance Officers Capt Homer Sharp and Maj Robert Baker signed forms of the accident report. I also have letters signed by Lt Col Homer Morris/commander and Maj Gen R J Reeves. With all this black and white information I still know very little about my father and wish to learn all that I can. If any can provide insight or information on my father it would greatly be appreciated

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Nancy Haffelder wrote on September 14, 2007

Email Update Needed

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City and State: DRIFTWOOD TX

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: I am looking for information on how to research my Father's squadron from when he was in the Air Force after the Korean War. All I know is he flew a F-86 with the 26th fighter squadron and arrived in Korea in 1953. He was based at Kadena AFB. If anyone can help me locate websites that have information and the final destination of his plane I would appreciate it.

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Ray Gerbi wrote on July 16, 2007

Send Email To RAY GERBI

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Hey Guys...I found this site by accident..but it sure brought back some memories!! I was at Clark from 1958 to 1960... The 26th fis was a great part of my life back then!!! Met some amazing people there! SSgnt William Ussery, and, Airman 2nd class Roy El Smith.
We had several tdys to Formosa during the days of Quemoy and Matsu...the Chinese did a pretty good job with our old f86as. We pulled alert duty for them with our f86d's. Remember Tainaan, and Shin Chu?? They scared the hell out of us!!! Ding How saved our asses more then once!! Wou;ld like to hear from any of you guys! Damn, we missed Korea..and Viet Nam...personally, I am happy as hell!!

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Kenneth Benner wrote on May 12, 2007

Email Update Needed

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City and State: NEKOOSA WI

Unit: 26TH. FIS

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: I got to Naha AFB in 1954, worked in hyd. shop, and ran paint shop. Was at Naha for nine months and squadron went on a mobility move to Clark AFB, PI. There I worked in the engine shop, then on the flight line. I crewed 031 until the pilot came in with the window deicer on and cracked the wind screen. When I left it was still grounded. I heard they cannibalized it and never did fly again.

Keywords: Ken, 26TH FIS Hyd. Tech. and crew cheif F-86-D

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James Daley wrote on April 12, 2007

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City and State: COLCHESTER VT

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Our guys in the 1962 AACS got to OKI in June '53 and were first assigned to Yontan.

Talk about ancient! The tower had a thatch roof, one VHF freq. and a B-3 light gun.

The A/C were F-80s. I don't now the Sqdn ID.

We moved to Naha shortly thereafter. The tower was about 100' high and sat on a pretty good sized hill.

I thought I was gonna have a nosebleed the first time I walked up the steps. Ain't 18 a great age?

F-86s were just arriving....call sign Paper Doll.

Anybody there then?

Dog Yoke

Keywords: Naha, Yontan, Paper Doll

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Bill Evans wrote on October 12, 2006

Send Email To BILL EVANS

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City and State: LAKE HAVASU CITY AZ

Unit: 26TH FIS

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: I received an email recently from David Llorente (F-86D NAA Tech. Rep.) that Col. I. B. Jack Donalson died Sept. 24 2006. He was 91 years old and had been in pretty bad health. I had visited him last year at his home near Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX. and he was in good spirits at that time.
Those of you who were at Clark AFB in 1957 when he came on board probably remember how he turned the 26th into one of the best Air Force units in the Pacific through his great leadership. I have always considered it to have been a pleasure to serve under this C.O. and that the 26th was my best Air Force assignment during my four years in the service.

Keywords: F-86D

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John R. Knosp SR. wrote on May 23, 2006

Send Email To JOHN R. KNOSP

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City and State:

Unit: 26TH FIS, 1955 - 1956

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: I DID IT ALL IN THE ABOVE BOX, THANK YOU.

Keywords: I'VE HAD A GOOD TIME SO FAR E MAILING WITH S/SGT BILL EVANS, S/SGT GINO MOLINARO AND (SOON TO RETIRE) M/SGT RANDY TROUTMAN. GENTLEMAN I'VE REALLY ENJOYED IT ALL SO FAR, LETS KEEP IT UP. THE BS AND THE PIC'S HAVE BEEN GREAT. ENJOY LIFE GUYS, IT'S WONDERFUL. jknosp

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David Troutman wrote on November 11, 2005

Send Email To DAVID TROUTMAN

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City and State: GLOUCESTER VA

Unit: HQ ACC

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Gentlemen-
I found this great site and am hoping some one may be able to assist me. I am writing because I am trying to find a 26 FIS patch. I am active duty USAF stationed at Langley AFB, and am trying to complete a collection of every FIS unit in the AF. I will buy or trade if there is something you're looking for. Please let me know if you can help, and thank you for your time.
D.R. Troutman

Keywords: 26 FIS patch

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Eugene Molinaro wrote on October 12, 2005

Email Update Needed

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City and State: HAWLEY PA

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: I served in the 26th FIS 56 through 57, I enjoyed my time at Clark and made lifelong friends. We had a great C.O. I.B.Jack Donalson .I spent a lot of nights in Angeles , Rosamindas kiosk , Pats Inn , trips to Baguio . Pasai City . Sam Mcgoo beer ( San Miguel). I worked in the dock doing aircraft maintenance . Our boss was T/sgt Blake Jenkins . I later worked alert, and made S/sgt . Thanks to Bill Evans ,and John Knosp for looking for me .

Keywords: Gino , 26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron

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John Knosp SR. wrote on July 21, 2005

Send Email To JOHN KNOSP

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City and State: OSWEGO NY

Unit: 26TH FIS

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran

Comments: Any body know where S/Sgt Gino Molinaro is these days. If so let me know. We were there together, same outfit. We did the Hong Kong trip, compliments of the US Navy. Spent about a week there, spent tooooo much money on Cloths and not enough on BOOOOOOOOOOOOZE. I know all you guys are in the same boat as I, All over 70, doing a lot of reminisceing and having a good time doing it.Where the hell would we be without this darn COMPUTER.Two years ago I didn't know how to turn the damn thing on , now I concider myself a semi PRO> OH the days of PAULINES CLUB. There they had the finest.I could go on for ever, but don't wish to dig to far into my memory bank, it might get me in trouble. Iv'e been a good boy for over 70. Did 4 and got out, spent the last 40 plus in the Auto Business and still at it.If you guys got something to chat about,do it.
ENJOY LIFE GUYS, IT'S GETTING SHORTER.
jknosp

Keywords: Was at Clark Sept 55 to Nov 56.No nickname.

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Ed Abel wrote on December 23, 2004

Email Update Needed

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City and State: NJ

Unit: 26TH FIS FIGHTER OPERATIONS

Service or Relationship: -

Comments: Was in the 26th FIS at Clark AB from 1954 to 1956. Was assigned as NCOIC of Fighter Operations. Was A T/Sgt at the time. Mostly took care of Flight Records and assisted in the Training Department. Col. Donaldson was the CO at that time. Also helped out in the Flight Equipmewnt Department. Occasionally would fly in the back seat of the T33 on target missions when they would fly the "rag". Was a great bunch of guys there and I could beat most all of them playing ping-pong. Was there when one of our F86D's crashed when making a flyby killing one of our young pilots. I lived on base after my wife came over. Remeber the F80's that would come down from Tiawan every year for gunnery practice. Those Chinese couldn't fly worth a darn. Several flew right into the mountain at the gunnery range. One Chinese F80 had a flameout on takeoff and the idiot ejected at ground zero. Got my first taste of a "Red-out" flying in that T33. Lt. Sydner thought it was funny when we landed and my eyes just about fell out of their sockets. Was good duty there though. Took a few trips to Hong Kong and Japan. Brought a new Chevy over with me and sold it for twice as much as I paid for it. Used to go hunting occasionally out in Bat Valley. Good duty, lots of friends. I'm 74 years old now.. retired with 21 years in 1969. Live very near McGuire AFB, New Jersey. Made CMsgt before I retired. Would do it all over again if given the chance. Good luck to all.

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Bill Evans wrote on October 16, 2004

Send Email To BILL EVANS

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City and State: LAKE HAVASU CITY AZ

Unit: 26TH FIS

Service or Relationship: -

Comments:

I left some comments at this website a couple of years ago and I now have a new email address.
captmarvel@npgcable.com. Over the years I've had some really neat replies and hope to hear from anyone that might have been at Clark AFB. I was there from (Jan. 1956 thru Aug. 1957) I've been in touch with the following people.

NAA Tech Rep. Dave Llorente
S/SGT Eugene Molinaro
Capt. Russel Van Hellen
Col. I.B. Jack Donalson
S/SGT Jerry Gordon
Airman Dorman Ellis

If you have time please share some of your memories.

Regards,
Bill Evans

Keywords: F-86D

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Jerry Moore wrote on October 15, 2004

Email Update Needed

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City and State: SHEPHERD MT

Unit: 26 TH FIS

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: My father was a F-86 D driver stationed at Clark from January 1956 through January 1958. His name was Capt. George V. Moore. My name is Jerry Moore and my brother and mother were also there at the same time.

My dad flew the F-102 in Nam in 1965. He was wounded and was sent back to the states. He spent 9 week in the military hospital located in Denver. After recovering he was assigned flight instructor at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Co. His health then deteriorated to the point that he was grounded and then retired. Telling a pilot he can't fly any more is like cutting there heart out. He died in March 27, 1978 with a broken heart.

Other aircraft that my dad flew were the F-101, P-51, P-61, T-33, T-37, T-38, and other smaller aircraft.

I am looking for other members of the 26th FIS that were at Clark during the period of 56 through 58. I remember beer call on Friday night. I would always stop for soda and shoot the breeze with members of the 26th while delivering the newspaper. I delivered the newpaper to most of the officers of the 26th that lived on the hill. What a good time I had.

You can contact me at the following location:
Jerry C. Moore
7914 Spear Dr.
Shepherd MT 59079
406-373-3483
E-mail: aquacowboy@usadig.com

Keywords: Son of a former member of the 26th FIS

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Jerry Moore wrote on October 15, 2004

Email Update Needed

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City and State: SHEPHERD MT

Unit: 26 TH FIS

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: My father was a F-86 D driver stationed at Clark from January 1956 through January 1958. His name was Capt. George V. Moore. My name is Jerry Moore and my brother and mother were also there at the same time.

My dad flew the F-102 in Nam in 1965. He was wounded and was sent back to the states. He spent 9 week in the military hospital located in Denver. After recovering he was assigned flight instructor at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Co. His health then deteriorated to the point that he was grounded and then retired. Telling a pilot he can't fly any more is like cutting there heart out. He died in March 27, 1978 with a broken heart.

Other aircraft that my dad flew were the F-101, P-51, P-61, T-33, T-37, T-38, and other smaller aircraft.

I am looking for other members of the 26th FIS that were at Clark during the period of 56 through 58. I remember beer call on Friday night. I would always stop for soda and shoot the breeze with members of the 26th while delivering the newspaper. I delivered the newpaper to most of the officers of the 26th that lived on the hill. What a good time I had.

You can contact me at the following location:
Jerry C. Moore
7914 Spear Dr.
Shepherd MT 59079
406-373-3483
E-mail: aquacowboy@usadig.com

Keywords: Son of a former member of the 26th FIS

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Bob Thomason JR. wrote on October 3, 2004

Send Email To BOB THOMASON

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Interested Person

Comments: Looking for anyone that flew with my father, domestic or NAM. Mostly, McCord, Andrews, NAM or Elmendorf 58-72

Keywords: 95th FIS, 317th FIS

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Kenn Raddcliff wrote on April 1, 2004

Email Update Needed

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City and State: TIOGA WV

Unit: 26TH FIS 1956/57

Service or Relationship: -

Comments:

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Kurt Krumlauf wrote on February 5, 2004

Email Update Needed

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City and State:

Unit: 18TH AMU

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: I was stationed in Osan AB between 77-79 and I was assigned to the recon unit which opered RF4Cs from Okinawa inside Korea. The birds would rotate every 45-90 days between Osan and Okinawa. The RF4Cs and chicken emblem, quite a scronee looking bird. We also had patches on our uniforms. The story about the chicken squadron I believe is true since the Airforce offically required the squadron to display the chicken patches and emblems. I can't believe the Airforce would do this without some resaon

Keywords: Hello from a member of the 18TH AMU Chicken Squadron RF4C

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William G. (Brownie) Brown wrote on October 13, 2003

Send Email To WILLIAM G. (BROWNIE) BROWN

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City and State: STEVENS POINT WI

Unit: 2ND FIGHTER SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: friends were many but can only remember 2 james d hyder from tn and oliver w (buddy) caine

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John L. Van Dyke wrote on July 28, 2003

Email Update Needed

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City and State: KENNEDALE TX

Unit: 26TH FTR NAHA 1952/52

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: Sr Weapons Mech-while in Hq Sqdn spent a lot of time on the quad 50 gun mount at south end of runway-early 1952 transfered into 26 Ftr spent some time at Yontan. While at Naha lived in quansot hut below tower and across from fire station. Nearly shot up a North West Airlines DC-4 that had just landed. Spent some time in New Koza Village. Would like to locate A 1/C Charles O allen from Stowe Ohio or CWO Chiefo-S/Sgt Orendorf. Understand Sqdn got F=86's and went to Clark after I left.

Keywords: Hq sqdn Naha 1951 transfered to 26th Ftr 1952

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Keith Fannon wrote on June 21, 2003

Send Email To KEITH FANNON

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City and State: CARROLLTON TX

Unit: 51ST FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR WING

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: Eric, it was bad enough that you put it in at all let alone twice. Tell those so called "historians" that they do not know what they are talking about. First of all the 26th didn't go to Korea with the 51st. They stayed behind to protect that corner of the world. What are you acusing them of - escaping from Naha and leaving the enlisted personnel behind?

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Eric Morales wrote on February 20, 2003

Email Update Needed

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City and State: MOUNTAIN HOME AFB ID

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Interested Person

Comments: I just want to know if the chicken squadron rumors are true ??? A few old Retired G.I.'s that work on base for lockheed martin tell us stories about a squadron that left all the mechanics( Basically all the enlisted people behind to fend for themselves ?? is this true ???

Keywords: I just want to know if the chicken squadron rumors are true ??? A few old Retired G.I.'s that work on base for lockheed martin tell us stories about a squadron that left all the mechanics( Basically all the enlisted people behind to fend for themselves ?? is this true ???

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Eric Morales wrote on February 20, 2003

Email Update Needed

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City and State: MOUNTAIN HOME AFB ID

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Interested Person

Comments: I just want to know if the chicken squadron rumors are true ??? A few old Retired G.I.'s that work on base for lockheed martin tell us stories about a squadron that left all the mechanics( Basically all the enlisted people behind to fend for themselves ?? is this true ???

Keywords: I just want to know if the chicken squadron rumors are true ??? A few old Retired G.I.'s that work on base for lockheed martin tell us stories about a squadron that left all the mechanics( Basically all the enlisted people behind to fend for themselves ?? is this true ???

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Carthel Parrott wrote on February 11, 2003

Email Update Needed

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City and State: QUITMAN AR

Unit: 26TH FIS CLARK FIELD PI

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE THAT SERVED WITH ME, CARTHEL PARROTT

Keywords: 95TH FIELD MAINTANCE SQ., 26TH FIS 1957-58

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Craig Mathewson wrote on September 21, 2002

Send Email To CRAIG MATHEWSON

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City and State: AZ

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: I am looking for anyone who might have flown with or known my father, Lt. Tracy B. Mathewson. His F-80 was shot down near Pyongyang in December of 1950. He was rescued by a Lt. Michaelis who was flying an L-5.

My father retired from the Air Force in 1975 and passed away in 1989 in Florida.

Thank you.

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David Llorente wrote on June 18, 2002

Send Email To DAVID LLORENTE

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City and State: SANTA FE TX

Unit: 26H FIS

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: Happy to have come across this site quite by accident. Was the North American Aviation Tech Rep with many AF squadrons, 2nd and 5th at McGuire, 93rd at Kirtland, 339th at Chitose, 194th at Calif Air Guard in Fresno, and the 26th at Clark, the latter being the finest assignment amongst the finest maintenance crews and pilots. Lots of enduring friendships established then and even make mention of the squadron in my latest novel Gift of Reckoning - - -http://hometown.aol.com/adbarrow/giftofreckoningindex.html)

What can I say except that those were really the Good Old Days with many stories and adventures!

Keywords: North American Aviation Tech Rep

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Alan Potter wrote on March 18, 2002

Send Email To ALAN POTTER

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Friend of Veteran

Comments: I am having a model F-80 made for my good friend who flew with the 26th out of Naha. If anyone has a photograph of the Squadron emblem, tail markings,etc from that time, and would be willing to share it with me, it would make the model perhaps more meaningful to him. I don't want to ask him since his family plans for it to be a surprise birthday present.

Keywords: 26th Fighter Squadron,Lancer,Naha

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Joe Gregory wrote on February 26, 2002

Email Update Needed

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City and State: SAN ANTONIO TX

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: I flew on a check flight on 21st of April 1952 in a T33 piloted by Richard D Hayes 1/LT. The crew chief on the AC was Norman L. French S/SGT.This day turned out badely as I spotted an oil slick in the water and we stayed over the spot untill air rescue flew out. When we landed we found out that a F94 was missing and later it turned out that they never found any remains. I often wonder what happened to all the friends I worked with on Naha and Yontan. The tail # of the plane I crewed
452.

Keywords: I got to Okinawa in Jan.1952 on the Brewster. I worked as a crew chief 26th fighter sq. on F80 and T33 AC. Went to the Far East Gunnery Meet at Johnson AFB in 1953.My Air Craft was named Patrica

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Kenneth Benner wrote on January 29, 2002

Email Update Needed

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City and State: NEKOOSA WI

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR SQ.

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: I was stationed at Naha AFB, Okinawa from 1954 to 1955 in the 26TH fighter interceptor sq. working on the flightline as a hyd tech. In 1956 our squadron went on a mobility move to Clark AFB in the Philippines, where I was also a crew cheif on my own plane 031 F-86-D I pulled alert on my rotation. After that I came to Kelly AFB late 1956 in depot maint. on hyd. aircraft equip. In March of 1957 I transferred to Rome AFB Rome N.Y. Until my discharge in Oct. 1957. I worked aircraft Maint.

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Mark Pace wrote on January 23, 2002

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City and State:

Unit:

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: Trying to find "first hand" account concerning the first time Kunsan Korea was overrun by the invading North. Trying to confirm or dispel rumors I heard while stationed at Kunsan. Rumor is "all pilots abandoned the airbase, even to the point of shaking their aircraft's wing's to dislodge the mechanics trying to hold on to the aircraft as it climbed away. All people, American, British, and Korean, on the base suffered horrible torture, with most maintenance people found hung with aircraft safety wire in the hangers. The Squadron pilots were renamed the "Chicken Squadron" and supposedly banished to Kadenia and prevented as a unit from returning to the United States until they redeemed themselves. Anyone know the facts?

Keywords: Korean War, Chicken Squadron

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Kenneth Hope wrote on January 12, 2002

Email Update Needed

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City and State: BAFB LA

Unit: 96 BS

Service or Relationship: -

Comments: I was assigned to the 509th TFS 1981-1983. I am looking for any info reguarding the 509th FIS and their F-86D's that they inherited during the changing from the 26th FIS to the 509th FIS. Trying to find paint scheme and pictures of the acft. Thank you

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Peter Beckman wrote on November 12, 2001

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City and State:

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER SQUADRON IN KADIA OKINAWA

Service or Relationship: Family Member

Comments: Would like to hear from anyone who served with me Peter Beckman

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Walter Steading wrote on November 1, 2001

Email Update Needed

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City and State: UVALDE TX

Unit: 26-509THFIS

Service or Relationship: Interested Person

Comments: Would like to contact airman from 1969 to 1961 Clark AB PI 26th or 509th FIS

Keywords: F-86D and F-102A

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John L. Van Dyke wrote on September 20, 2001

Email Update Needed

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City and State: KENNEDALE TX

Unit: 26TH FTR INT SQDN

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: I rotated back to the states late 1952/to 11th Bomb Wing Caeswell AFB/worked B-36`s-would like to know what happened to 26th Ftr after I left/Naha closed in the 70`s but that is all that I have been able to find out. Any help out there?

Keywords: 26th Ftr Int Sgdn/51st FIG flying F-80C`s-
4th FAWS flying F-82`s-went to F-94`s
A1/C Charles O Allen Stow Ohio
Chief WO Mr Chiefo

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George Becker wrote on August 30, 2001

Email Update Needed

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City and State:

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER INTERCEPTOR SQUADRON

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: I would supose that my tour with the 26th was of the best of times as youth was on my side. Many stories to tell some interesting, some dry. Loved the F86D's of course I was radar (Fire Control) but we couldn't all be crew chiefs or pilots. I may even have some stories about Angeles City, nah. Glued to my computer so a response to you mail would be "on time". All the best to my friends of the 26th Fighter Interceptor Squadron and to the TIGER ON THE HORSE'S BACK.

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Bill Evans wrote on August 22, 2001

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City and State: LAKE HAVASU CITY AZ

Unit: 26TH FIS

Service or Relationship: -

Comments: I arrived in the PI in Jan of 1956 and was assigned to the the 26th FIS at Clark AFB. At that time they were operating F-86D aircraft. This was my first overseas assignment and I was only 22 years old. I orignally went to tech school on medium jet bombers (B-47's) but later on was assigned to single engine fighters (43151C). I don't remember the CO's name at that time, but the first Sgt's. name was Sgt. Grawert (sp). The F-86D was a maint.nightmare and the moral in the 26th was very poor to say the least. The only bad and good thing was that people were getting busted left and right and I along with serveral others got promoted to the next rank (S/SGT) in grade shortly after we arrived. As many of you remember, the Dog was in some phase of maintenance most of the time. It seems like we spent more time removing and installng engines and doing hydrualic maint. than anything else. With the extremly poor moral, I can remember spending a many a day on the ramp without every flying any airplanes. Then one day we got a new CO, Col. I. B. Jackson and he turned everything around in a hurry. We had more aircraft in commission and the 26th was flying the wheels off those aircraft everyday. The 26th was becoming well known at Clark and we were flying more hours than we every had before.

I remember a test pilot, Capt. Van Hellen that everyone hated to have to do maint flight checks on their aircraft because he was so darn tough. For some reason I got along well with the Capt. and he alway treated me square.

I was assigned to an aircraft as a crew chief and later on to "Alert" for the later part of my stay in the PI.

I would like to hear from anybody (both enlisted and officers) that were in the 26th at that time.(Jan 56-Aug 57)
captmarvel@citlink.net.

Regards,

S/SGT Bill Evans

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Kenneth Benner wrote on February 20, 2001

Email Update Needed

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City and State: NEKOOSA WI

Unit: 26TH FINCEPTRON NAHA 1954-1956

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: I was the aircraft hyd. repairman for the squadron
also I was in charge of the paint shop and painted
the checker tails and squadron and Fifty 1st air force colors on the air craft. Then I was also crew cheif on my own 86-D #031. I pulled alert duty on my rotation. Our whole squadron went PCS to Clark AFB. From there I was rotated back to the U.S. Kelly AFB depot maint. I enjoyed my tour of duty very much. Kenneth Benner

Keywords: aircraft F-86-F F-94 F-86-D T-33

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Billy Reed wrote on December 26, 2000

Email Update Needed

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City and State: JOHNSTON CITY IL

Unit: 26TH FIGHTER SQUADRON D FLIGHT

Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea

Comments: July 1952-January 1953, transferred to Korea to K-9 Airbase in Kunsan. 430th Fighter Bomber Squadron. F84 aircraft. I was transferred to Taegu in spring 1953. I was flight chief of Baker B Flight untill Sept. 1953. After that I went to Alexandria, LA AFB. I was discharged in August 1954. F-86 aircraft. I would be interested in attending any reunions with the above squadron. Or I possibly would consider organizing a reunion if enough people are interested. Please contact me by phone or daugters e-mail address listed. Thank You!

Keywords: Naha airbase

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