58th Fighter Bomber Wing
On July 10, 1952, the 58th FBW activated and absorbed the personnel and equipment of the 136th FBW. The 58th had some assets in Japan and some in South Korea until August, when the entire wing moved to Korea. The 58th FBW tested a "reinforced wing" concept in the spring of 1953, taking on the support and administrative functions of the 49th FBW while exercising direct control of both the 58th and 49th FBGs. In three-months, the reinforced wing flew 10,422 combat sorties and delivered more firepower than two separate wings with a full complement of personnel.
Itazuke AB, Japan, July 10, 1952; Taegu AB, South Korea, August 1952-.
Units
49th Fighter-Bomber Wing attached March 16-31, 1953
474th Fighter-Bomber Wing attached April 1, 1953
49th Fighter-Bomber Group attached March 16-31, 1953
58th Fighter-Bomber Group
474th Fighter-Bomber Group attached April 1, 1953
Itazuke AB, Japan, July 10, 1952; Taegu AB, South Korea, August 1952-.
Entry: 98869
Subject: 58 FIGHTER BOMB WING ASSOCIATION
Subject: 58 FIGHTER BOMB WING ASSOCIATION
Paul Perron wrote on December 6, 2019
City and State:
Unit:
Service or Relationship:
Comments: Looking for anyone who knows if there is a 58th FBW association. I cannot find one searching the web. Looking for contact information is this association exists. Many thanks!
Keywords:
Entry: 95297
Subject: HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Subject: HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Laura Malloy wrote on February 1, 2018
City and State: ALBUQUERQUE NM
Unit: 58TH SPECIAL OPERATIONS WING
Service or Relationship: Other
Comments: I am the historian for the 58TH SOW; we are the lineal descendants of the 58th FBW. I am looking for any information, or artifacts to add to our collection, concerning the 58 FBW.
One project currently in works is a museum quality timeline display - 3 timelines WWII, Cold War, and HIll/Luke to the present. If there are any photos you think would make a good addition to the display please forward to me with identifying info - service members name and squadron.
Keywords: 58th FBW
69th
310th
311th
Entry: 92831
Subject: MY GRANDPA FOUGHT WITH THE 58TH FTR BMR WING SUPPLY SQ
Subject: MY GRANDPA FOUGHT WITH THE 58TH FTR BMR WING SUPPLY SQ
Wyatt Howard wrote on March 8, 2016
City and State: YORBA LINDA CA
Unit: 58TH FTR. BMR. WING SUPPLY SQ
Service or Relationship: Family Member
Comments: My grandpa served for the united states Air Force and when I got older he gave me his patch from the back of his jacket he use to wear everyday
Keywords:
Entry: 88988
Subject: PROUD TO SERVE
Subject: PROUD TO SERVE
Alex Russo wrote on May 26, 2014
City and State: CRANSTON RI
Unit: NONE
Service or Relationship: Other
Comments: My Dad served with the 58th FBW from 1952-1953 in Korea and I learned much about the F-84 Thunderjets and what the war was like while he was there. He was very proud to have been there and always spoke highly of the buddies he served with and his time there. I'm most proud of my Dad and what he did, volunteering to go to Korea at that difficult time. Thanks, Dad and to all who served there.
Keywords: F-84 Thunderjet Fighter-Bomber
Entry: 84947
Subject: K-2 AFB
Subject: K-2 AFB
Pat Lewis wrote on December 10, 2012
City and State: COLDWATER MS
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Other
Comments: Was stationed there 1954-55 and worked in Base Ops
and looking for Airman Roger Clark from the Boston
area. Have tried everything I know of to find him
but unable, thus this website which I just found
today.
Keywords: K-2 AFB Korea
Entry: 83939
Subject:
Subject:
Gerry Arsenault wrote on August 17, 2012
City and State: HUDSON MA
Unit: CANT REMEMBER
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: I was crew chief on a F-86 sabrejet around 1955
I have a total block on personel at that facility
I dont understand why I can't remember the names!
I do remember that there was an F-86 with my last name
on it. (Arsenault ) 1954-1955
Keywords: worked on a t-33 f-84 f-86 58th fighter bomber Sq.
OSAN K-55
Entry: 83877
Subject: TRANSLATION OF 58TH FBW MOTTO
Subject: TRANSLATION OF 58TH FBW MOTTO
William J. (Bill) Mitchell wrote on August 12, 2012
Email Update Needed
City and State: LA JOLLA CA
Unit: 58TH FIGHTER BOMBER WING BASE OPERATIONS
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: Each of the House Boys received a dollar a month from
each of the men in a barrack.They swept around our
bunk, shined our boots, made up our bunk each day.
One of the memorable days and the most morale
boosting of all vistors, was Roy Acuff. When he
arrived, I went out to greet him, as he departed the
plane. It was a hot day, and he said, Come on, let's
go over and sit in the shade. So, we went over and
sat in the dirt and dust and leaned against the
former Japanese WWII building, and chatted. I loved
his Country Western accent, and it made me feel at
home, because he talked just like my dad did, who was
from Oklahoma. Another thought on the heat in the
Taegue area, during the summer: It was so hot, and we
would stand around like I remember our chickens in
the chicken yard back home, when it was hot, they
would stand around with their beaks dropped open. I
felt just like those chickens. The water we had was
like drinking swiming pool water, because there was
so much chlorine in the water, so we would just rinse
our mouths and spit it out. Whew!
Keywords: Our House Boys were Em Chunkill and Lee Duck Puck.
In addition to my friends mentioned before, I was
friends with another airman in Weather Dept, in the
same Ops building, whose name was Winters. I want to
say Don, and I am not sure.
Nice fellow.
Entry: 83869
Subject: I WAS WITH 58TH FBW 1953-54 K-2
Subject: I WAS WITH 58TH FBW 1953-54 K-2
William J. (Bill) Mitchell wrote on August 11, 2012
Email Update Needed
City and State: LA JOLLA CA
Unit: BASE OPERATIONS
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: I was in Base Operations, on the Taegu side of the
base. In the winter, it was so cold,we did not want
to walk or hitch a ride to the mess hall, because the
comfort of food did not take us away from our warm
former Japanese barrack building heated by a pot
belly stove to get our breakfast. It was warmer by
noon, so we would eat twice as much for lunch, to
make up for the lost breakfast.
One time when General Stillwell flew into the base,
they left the doors open on his plane and we found a
basket of fresh assorted fruit from Hawaii where they
had just
flown in from. We took that basket back to the
barrack and shared it with the others. That was the
most delicious bananas, pinapples, papayas, etc., I
have
ever experienced. Stillwell didn't miss them, because
he got all he had wanted.
If you want to hear the story of when Marilyn Monroe
flew in, when my buddy and I posed as base
photographers, with my new Argus C-4 camera and I got
Marylin to pose for 6 photos, let me know. How we
knew she was coming, how we got to be first in line,
and how I got to talk to her and got her to pose for
me, while the base commander stood there speechless.
So, I introduced him to her.
Keywords: My friends were Cpl Sherman Olson, of Wisconsin; Cpl.
Bill Holloway from NY. Tech Sgt Corsi. A pilot, Major
Clapel, who was top rating in Bombing, Straffing,
Rocketing and Napalm. Lt. Whiting, who was the hot
road F-84 Pilot, who buzzed the field at the control
tower level after a successful mission and was
grounded. Then, he was allowed to fly the L-20 to
ferry the VIP and Top Brass around.He became a wild L-
20 pilot.
Entry: 83803
Subject: INFO. ON SQUADRON PATCH
Subject: INFO. ON SQUADRON PATCH
Leonard Hagen wrote on August 3, 2012
City and State: KAPAA HI
Unit: 69TH FB SQ. 58TH FB WING
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: Was watching a program on PBS about unit,squadron patches and couldn't
remember what the 69th.used. Any one recall? On the Armament shop
door was a ace in the hole card sign.But some of the pilots had a duck or
rabbit riding a bomb? patch on their flight jacket.
Keywords: F-84 armor May 52 to May 53
Entry: 81555
Subject: SAW MARILYN AT K-2 AFB IN 1953
Subject: SAW MARILYN AT K-2 AFB IN 1953
Anthony J. Adolfi wrote on December 30, 2011
Email Update Needed
City and State: SCOTTSDALE AZ
Unit: 58TH FIGHTER BOMBER
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: Staff writer and editor of The Thunderjet Express which
we published every two weeks on K-2 AFB. We distributed
it to about 10,000 military personal in and around the
base. I was there from 1953 to 1954.
Keywords:
Entry: 81489
Subject: INFO ON PICTURES OF SOUTH KOREA ALSO DUKES DRILL TEAM
Subject: INFO ON PICTURES OF SOUTH KOREA ALSO DUKES DRILL TEAM
Ted Szabo wrote on December 27, 2011
Email Update Needed
City and State: LORAIN OH
Unit: 58TH FMS
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments:
Keywords:
Entry: 81211
Subject: LOOKING FOR INFO ON 58 FBW PILOT
Subject: LOOKING FOR INFO ON 58 FBW PILOT
Omar Ortiz wrote on November 30, 2011
City and State: LA MIRADA CA
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Interested Person
Comments: Good day,
I'm looking for some information on the father of a
friend of mine. His name was 1st LT John C.
Bidwell. He won the Air Medal while flying F-84s in
the 58th FBW under Col. John S. Loisel. If anyone
flew with him or served with him in Korea, would you
please be so kind as to contact me?
Regards,
-O. Ortiz
Keywords: 1st, 1st Lt, first, first lieutenant, Bidwell, Col,
Colonel, Loisel, Air Medal, Thunderjet, F-84, July,
1953
Entry: 78846
Subject: FIGHTING 69TH PATCH
Subject: FIGHTING 69TH PATCH
Larry Lami wrote on May 7, 2011
City and State:
Unit: 69TH FIGHTER BOMBER SQ / 58TH FBWG
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: I was in the 69th FBSq 56-57.I had the Sq patch ( fighting 69th) and the 58th FBWg patch. They were taken some where along the way and I am hoping to find someone who has one or both of these patches that they would be willing to part with. I am willing to pay for them. thank you.
Keywords: K-55, F-86F
Entry: 77738
Subject:
Subject:
Ronald Wakefield wrote on February 5, 2011
Email Update Needed
City and State: LAYTON UT
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments:
Keywords: 58th FMS Korea 1955-1966
Entry: 76303
Subject: SUCESS AT LAST
Subject: SUCESS AT LAST
Larry Luntz SR. wrote on October 1, 2010
City and State: LAKE ISABELLA CA
Unit: 58TH FTR. BMR.
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: I want to thank you people running this web.site
and to tell you keep up the good work. I had finally
decided I wouldn't find my friend until the next life
and all of a sudden here comes the big surprise.
Thanks again for all you do!
Keywords: I had listed an inquiry about locating a friend from
Korea on your Web. Someone doing genealogy knew the
person and notified them. I can't tell you how great
it is finding a long lost friend still breathing. He
has pictures of our k-55 base, what it did to my memory
I had forgotten so many things. The pictures sure helped.
Entry: 70693
Subject: LOOKING FOR INFORMATION
Subject: LOOKING FOR INFORMATION
Kaelan Anderson wrote on June 24, 2009
City and State:
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Family Member
Comments: My uncle was attached to the 58th Fighter Bomber Wing and also 1708 Ferrying Wing Kelly AFB. He crashed at Edwards AFB Jan 10,1956 while flying an F100 Super Sabre. His name was Lt. Bart (Barty) Ray Brooks. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks
Keywords:
Entry: 69329
Subject: CRASH RESCUE K-2 TAEGU
Subject: CRASH RESCUE K-2 TAEGU
Brendan Meehan wrote on March 2, 2009
City and State: ARVADA CO
Unit: 58TH FIGHTER BOMBER WING/CRASH RESCUE
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: Anybody on K-2 during 1953/54? Who took my watch?
Keywords:
Entry: 67787
Subject: WILLIAM
Subject: WILLIAM
Tiffany Troxclair wrote on November 10, 2008
City and State: LITTLE ELM TX
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Family Member
Comments: My dad William "Bill" Crawford was in Korea 1956-1957. He passed away in 1996. Growing up he never really talked about his time in Korea. We know it was bad because oof the nightmares he used to have. When my mom passed away in 1999 I packed up the belongings including pictures. Well I was going through the pictures recently and found a whole shoebox full of pictures from Korea. I am looking for anyone who can fill in some information on this time in my dad's life. Here are 2 emails to contact me ttroxclair@leisd.ws or tiffanytrox@yahoo.com. I am looking forward to any information.
Keywords: 58th Supply Squadron
Entry: 65115
Subject: LOOK FOR A/C 2C BUD CUNNINGHAM
Subject: LOOK FOR A/C 2C BUD CUNNINGHAM
Robert (Bob Gerring wrote on April 6, 2008
Email Update Needed
City and State: RIVIERA BEACH FL
Unit: BASE HOSPITAL
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments:
Keywords: STATIONED THERE 1955 AND 56
Entry: 64358
Subject: 10TH LAISON SQD-L 20 PLAINES 1954-55
Subject: 10TH LAISON SQD-L 20 PLAINES 1954-55
Larry Klose SR. wrote on February 18, 2008
Email Update Needed
City and State: BELLE PLAINE MN
Unit: 10 TH LAISON SQD
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments:
Keywords: great partys in barracks,remmber leon and baby blanketlots of volley ball.
Entry: 64357
Subject: 10TH LAISON SQD-L 20 PLAINES 1954-55
Subject: 10TH LAISON SQD-L 20 PLAINES 1954-55
Larry Klose SR. wrote on February 18, 2008
Email Update Needed
City and State: BELLE PLAINE MN
Unit: 10 TH LAISON SQD
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments:
Keywords: great partys in barracks,remmber leon and baby blanketlots of volley ball.
Entry: 56561
Subject: 58 FLD MAINT SQUADRON, K55
Subject: 58 FLD MAINT SQUADRON, K55
Wallace Young wrote on April 6, 2006
City and State: WOOD CREEK CIRCLE CO
Unit: 58TH FIELD MAINTENANCE SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: I was stationed at Osan AB from Sep 57 to Jul 58 and was assigned to the 58 FMS with duty in the Orderly Rm as unit mail clerk. Our 1st Sgt was MSgt Armstrong. Myself and Amn J Graham worked for SSgt Bill Bayless. Anyone there at that time will remember Hill 180 and the MSR off base. also when the large base supply warehouse burned down on a night in Nov 57. Also rember the B Hope show there on Xmas 57. It was held in our hanger and we had front row seats. would like to hear from anyone stationed there at that time.
TSgt Wallace Young, USAF, Ret
Keywords: Osan AB, Sep 57 to Jul 58
Entry: 55048
Subject: FRIENDS NAME E-MAILSTHAT ERE THER R
Subject: FRIENDS NAME E-MAILSTHAT ERE THER R
Billy Cecil wrote on January 7, 2006
City and State: GERMANTOWN TN
Unit: AACS
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments:
Keywords:
Entry: 53423
Subject: 58TH FTR BMR WG - 1952-1953
Subject: 58TH FTR BMR WG - 1952-1953
Ray Kenerley wrote on October 4, 2005
Email Update Needed
City and State: BIRMINGHAM AL
Unit: 69TH FTR. BMR. SQ., 58TH FTR. BMR. WG. APO970
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: I was in the 69th Ftr Bmr Sq, 58th Ftr Bmr Wg, Orderly Room, Major Benjamin Atwood, CO, doing Officers Records from 16 Oct 52 until 7:00 pm the night before the PEACE was signed at 10:00 am the next day. My MOT was 6 Aug 53. I would like to hear from any and all of the following friends I made while there: Richard E. Asa, Jr., Warren J. Costello, Leland A. Davis, Ralph M. Dixon, Bradley E. Dudley, William B. Fessenden, James N. Gorman, James F. Holloway, Floyd A. Linbaugh,n William F. Palmer and Jerome W. Schmidt...THANKS
Keywords: F84G Thunder Jet, K-2 AB, Tague 1952-1953
Entry: 51837
Subject: K-55 , 58TH CES
Subject: K-55 , 58TH CES
Joe Coughlin wrote on July 4, 2005
City and State: COLORADO SPRINGS CO
Unit: 58TH CES, K-55, AUGUST '55 TO JAN. '56
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran
Comments: K-55, 08.'55 to 01. '56, 58th CES. Worked in the big power plant on base. Quonset hut was 1st from flight line road, and across the street from Airmens club.
Keywords:
Entry: 50241
Subject: 2005 REUNION
Subject: 2005 REUNION
Henry Wildasin wrote on April 18, 2005
Email Update Needed
City and State: DOVER PA
Unit: 58TH HEDRONSEC
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: 58th Fighter Association, Inc. 2005 Reunion in Washington D.C. area June 15 2005-June 20, 2005.
Will include visit to the WWII, Korean, and Veit Nam Memorials, also Unknown Soldier Tomb ceremony, and annual Memorial service in Christ Church in Old Towne Alexandria. For information Contact:
J. Kupferer
2050 Bono Road
New Albany, Indiana 47150
E-Mail jkupfere@iglou.com Phone 812-945-7649
Come out and join in with one of the greatest groups of people you will ever know.
Keywords:
Entry: 48373
Subject: HERBERT L. RAGSDALE
Subject: HERBERT L. RAGSDALE
Kirby Ragsdale wrote on January 24, 2005
Email Update Needed
City and State: GRANTS PASS OR
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Family Member
Comments: looking for anyone that knew or served with my dad, not sure what outfit he flew with. all I know is he was in korea and at one time was an advisor to the south koreans on how to fly jets of some type. any info would be greatly appreciated. thanks for your time. I do have a vase from korea that says 10th ftr wing ROKA 1958
Keywords:
Entry: 48304
Subject: 58TH SUPPLY SQUADRON AT ITAZUKE
Subject: 58TH SUPPLY SQUADRON AT ITAZUKE
Albert Damico wrote on January 21, 2005
Email Update Needed
City and State: SAN ANTONIO TX
Unit: 58TH SUPPLY SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: As a member of the 58th Supply Squadron, we supplied aircraft and general supplies for the 58th FBW making frequent trips to Taegue {K2}from
Itazuke. I served as warehouse officer and personnel officer for the 58th Air Base Group.
I was in combat as Group Radar Navigator for
several groups in the 8th Air Force in 1944 but
was removed from fly status due to disablement.
Enjoyed my time with the 58th and would like to
join in for any reunions in the future.
Keywords: F-84 and F-86
aircraft parts at Itazuke
Entry: 48193
Subject: 1954 TO1955 K-2 AND K-55
Subject: 1954 TO1955 K-2 AND K-55
Carl Brown wrote on January 16, 2005
Email Update Needed
City and State: TUCSON AZ
Unit: 311 F.B.S
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: would like to fine carlton connor or any one
that may remember me.
Keywords: 58th F.B.W
Entry: 47661
Subject: I WAS IN THE MEDICS AT K-55
Subject: I WAS IN THE MEDICS AT K-55
Carl Basuino wrote on December 23, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: SAN LEANDRO CA
Unit: I REALLY DONT REMEMBER BUT WILL LOOK
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments:
Keywords: I was a memeber of the old drill team called the Dukes stationed at k-55 it was from the medical Sq. there I do have some slide of the unit also many slides of K-55 and the villages
Entry: 47168
Subject: 58TH FB WING - HQ SQ.
Subject: 58TH FB WING - HQ SQ.
John Anderson wrote on November 29, 2004
City and State:
Unit: HQ SQUADRON - 58TH FB WG
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: Chief Clerk assigned to to Materiel Section Wg HQ, (Lt Col Elton Engelman, Major Montgomery, Sgt. Jack Matlock etc.) Looking for Richard Madden from Pa.
Keywords:
Entry: 46535
Subject: ITAZUKE DETACHMENT 58 FBW
Subject: ITAZUKE DETACHMENT 58 FBW
Raymond (Ray) Corti wrote on October 28, 2004
City and State:
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I was a crew chief in the Minor repair engine shop on the strip 52 and 53 for the 58 FBW.Looking for old friends
Keywords: Engine burning turning Works
Entry: 46084
Subject: LOOKING FOR MY FRIEND
Subject: LOOKING FOR MY FRIEND
Larry Luntz wrote on September 29, 2004
City and State: LAKE ISABELLA CA
Unit: 58TH FTR BMR. GP.
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I'm looking for a George Wakefield,George and I
were at K-55 early 54 to 55. George was a parachute rigger, I would help rig,parachutes when he became over whelmed. He never told me about signing a little book that went with the chute,I recieved a couple of 5ths from the pilots
when their parachutes opened. I will never forget
how cold it was, those oil stoves in the huts would blow up ever so often. Man what a mess.
standing guard on the flight line at night was miserable,until I went to Japan on R and R and got some pocket warners. Lots of cold, smelly memories.
Keywords: George Wakefield K-55 58th Ftr. Bmr.Grp.
Entry: 44425
Subject: CLOSURE FOR WIDOW
Subject: CLOSURE FOR WIDOW
Bill Gray wrote on July 12, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State:
Unit: 311TH FIGHTER-BOMBER SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Friend of Veteran
Comments: Hi,
It is always so amazing and so awesome to watch a situation unfold, knowing that you are experiencing God's hand at work. Since September 2003, I have been involved in just that kind of situation. And there is no doubt in my mind that God has orchestrated everything that has happened in the last several years.
In 1956-57, I was in the Air Force, stationed at Osan AFB (K55), Korea, in the 311th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 58th Fighter-Bomber Wing, 5th Air Force. I was an enlisted man, working in the Radar/Fire Control Sighting System Section. There was a pilot, Lt. Bob Ford, whom I admired very much. On March 11, 1957, Lt. Ford was killed in an F-86F fighter aircraft crash. That day also was my mother's 40th birthday. Most of the enlisted men and officers who were at Osan during that one year period, I have forgotten. I can see many faces; I can remember some names. However, because I admired Lt. Bob Ford so much, I have always had vivid memories of him. Many time over the 48 years which have passed since his death; when talking with friends about my time in Korea, I always have told them about Bob Ford, because I recall him so fondly.
On September 11, 2003, about 3:00 AM, I was checking my e-mails and getting ready to sleep. One e-mail had a link to the Korean War Project web site. Since I was in Korea around that time, I was curious. I went to the Korean War Project web site, found my unit, and started reading messages left there over the years by others who were in the 311th FBS. At this point, I was just scanning the messages, because I wanted to get in bed.
Then, like a thunderbolt --- a name jumped out at me. It was a message about Lt. Bob Ford. The message read:
HEADER: 1 /Lt. Robert A. Ford, Jr KIA NAME: Elizabeth (Libby) Ford COMMENTS: 1/Lt. Robert A. Ford, Jr. was killed in Korea on March 11, 1957 after being extended over in Korea longer than he was supposed to serve due to the fact that he had been accepted to attend the University of Illinois to get his Masters Degree. They didn't know what to do with him before school started so they held him over there longer than he should have been there; consequently he was killed because of a faulty plane he was flying.
Her message was posted on September 11, 1999 --- I found it on September 11, 2003 --- four years to the day after she posted it. God brought me together with Libby Ford --- after almost 50 years. I truly believe this happened because He wants Libby Ford to have closure. And I will do everything in my power to honor the task God has given me.
Let me give you a short history lesson. In 1950, the North Koreans attacked South Korea, an American ally. President Truman sent American troops to Korea to help our South Korean allies. The president could send troops if he called it a "police action" --- not a war. This way he did not have to go to congress for approval.
This "war that was not a war" continued from 1950 to 1953, when a "cease fire" was signed. However, no peace treaty was ever signed; so technically we were still at war; only sitting under a so called "cease fire." To this day, no peace treaty has ever been signed with North Korea. So, technically, the Korean War is still an active war; only sitting under a cease fire. And we all know how binding a "cease fire" is --- one little flare, and boom, you are shooting again.
In 1956-57, when Lt. Bob Ford and I were in Korea, there was a definite probability of the war flaring up again. Because of this, everyone in Korea at that time was in a potential war situation. So, we, and especially our pilots, took the responsibility of being prepared and ready to heart. When our pilots went up in a simulated bombing or dogfight exercise; they knew that the next exercise might just be for real. This was the situation we lived under at that time.
So, technically, when Lt. Bob Ford was killed on March 11, 1957 --- America was still at war with North Korea.
When the Korean War Memorial was being planned; Libby Ford, Bob Ford's widow, sent a request to have Bob Ford's name included on the memorial. She was refused, because Lt. Ford had not been killed between 1950 and 1953, the day of the cease fire.
Libby Ford was devastated. This was the culmination of 47 years of frustration for this widow of one of our fallen warriors. When Bobby's death occurred, Libby received a letter from Washington DC giving her one explanation; and later another from Korea giving a different explanation. She was confused, grieving, and angry. They sent home 30 pounds of a 220 pound man in a body bad, for burial. This was all she had left of the man she loved, the father of her two children; the man who had gone to Korea to serve his country.
Over the years, she has attempted to get a full report on Lt. Bob Ford's death. After about 20 years, she finally was able to get a copy of a censored report --- with many pages missing and many areas blacked out --- even Bobby's date of birth, as though this was a big military secret. Libby was frustrated and angry. She had lost the one man she would ever love, the father of her two small children, and, even after 20 years, still could not get a complete report from the U.S. government telling her what really happened.
The rejection by the Korean War Memorial was the final straw. Out of total frustration, Libby posted the message above on the Korean War Project web site. At least Bob Ford would have this one small memorial; because no one else, especially the government he died serving, cared.
It was at this point that God brought Libby Ford and me together. Four years, to the day, after Libby posted her memorial, I found it, and the next morning I called her. I introduced myself and told her of my memories of Bob. She asked if I would write my memories for her, for Bobby's children, for Bobby's grandchildren, and for Bobby's family. I told her I would, but, had no idea where to start.
The next day, I sent out e-mail inquiries. The very next day, I received an early morning call from Kirtland AFB, New Mexico. The gentleman told me that my message had been sent to him from Maxwell AFB, Alabama. This man sent the accident report to Libby and me. It was still censored and blacked out --- after almost 50 years. I really don't think that after all that time there is any security problems or risks, national or otherwise. Yet, the Air Force still refused to send a complete, uncensored report to Libby. And the photos they sent are seventh level xerox copies of xerox copies --- virtually useless. You and I both know that these record still exist, in original form, in either hard copy or on film. But, the Air Force still will not release copies of uncensored originals.
After months of communications, we received a letter from an Air Force Colonel at Kirtland AFB, telling us that this was all the regulations said he had to send. And if we wanted to get more information, we should write to the Secretary of the Air Force at the Pentagon.
Now, at this point, most people would just give up. Which is what the Colonel was counting on. But, Libby has gone through almost 50 years of wondering, frustration, and grief, never remarrying; always cherishing the memory of Bobby. This was not the time to give up. So, we wrote a letter to the Honorable James G. Roche, Secretary of the Air Force, Headquarters US Air Force, Washington DC, and waited. Several months later, we received another letter from that same Air Force Colonel at Kirtland AFB in New Mexico, responding in the same tone, for the Honorable James G. Roche. In other words, telling us to stuff it. The Honorable James G. Roche had just forwarded our letter to this Colonel, which did not care to help us in the first place, for him to do whatever he wanted. In other words, Libby and I had been caught in one of the Air Force "Catch 22" situations.
Well, my Friend, we will not stuff it. Over the last six months I have been building a Lt. Bob Ford Memorial web site on the internet. Now that it is almost finished, we intend to take our case higher. If going higher in our government than the Honorable James G. Roche will not get a full report and some closure for Libby; then we will take our case to a higher court --- the people of the United States. We will send letters to Oprah, we will send letters to news anchors, we will send letters to anyone who will listen --- asking why America is making so much effort to honor military men and women killed and wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan --- but, refuses to provide closure for the widow of a Warrior who fell almost 50 years ago.
I invite you to visit the Lt. Bob Ford Memorial web site. The latest pages I have just finished are LIFE IN THE 311th FIGHTER-BOMBER SQUADRON, OSAN AFB (K55), KOREA -- 1956-57 -- PARTs 1, 2, 3 --- my memories of that year. For those of you who were in Korea, before or after that year; this will most likely bring back many memories. I have included as many photos as I could find to add more depth to the memoirs.
Now, click on this URL and learn more about an American hero:
1/Lt. Bob Ford Memorial Web Site: http://www.ourchurch.com/member/h/HE-GAVE-ALL
I will appreciate any thoughts or feedback you might have.
God bless, have a wonderful day,
Bill Gray
Keywords: 311th FBS, 58th FBW, Osan AFB (K55)
Entry: 44112
Subject: REUNION - 2005
Subject: REUNION - 2005
Ben I. Sowaske wrote on June 28, 2004
DeceasedCity and State: MADISON WI
Unit: 430TH FTR.-BMB. SQD.
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I am looking for people who were members of the 58th Wing for reunion notification.
Keywords: Republic 84 Thunderjets
Entry: 43036
Subject: 69TH FIGHTER BOMBER WING K-2 KOREA 1953
Subject: 69TH FIGHTER BOMBER WING K-2 KOREA 1953
Wendell Ryan wrote on May 14, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: CHANDLER TX
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I had a friend by the name of Myers home town Oxford ,Miss. he was sgt in Flight operations.1n 1953. We went on R/R together to Tokyo.Anyone knowing his where abouts ,please let me know .
Keywords: was photo man loading and unloading gun cameras having it processed and indexed for pilots.
Entry: 42941
Subject: ATTEMPT TO LOCATE
Subject: ATTEMPT TO LOCATE
Charles Griffin wrote on May 10, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: ABILENE TX
Unit: 311TH FBS
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I would like to corrospond with anyone who was assigned to the 311th FBS, Commanded by Lt. Col. William C. Davis from Sep 57 - Jun 58.
I was on the flight line, flight Chief of "A" flight (F86's. While there we went TDY to Chie (spelled wrong) Formosa and to Bangkok, Thialand on a SETO exercise.I would like to know if Col. Davis is still living or anyone else that was in K-55 When I was . Thanks, Chuck Griffin
Keywords: 311th FBS
Entry: 42078
Subject: 58TH FBW 1957-58
Subject: 58TH FBW 1957-58
Don Ringling wrote on April 2, 2004
City and State: GREENSBURG PA
Unit: 58 FBW
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I just was looking over the list of guys that were at K-55 and in the 58th Fighter Bomber Wing before me.
There has been a lot of changes over the years and there are a couple of sites with pictures of how the area looks today.
I remember the hot stoves and cold days.
And the high point was Bob Hope making his stop at K-55 around Christmas of 57.
Thanks for the memories
Don
Keywords:
Entry: 41737
Subject: K2 KOREA 1953
Subject: K2 KOREA 1953
Aaron Block wrote on March 15, 2004
City and State: LAKE FOREST CA
Unit: 311TH FIGHTER BOMBER SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I was crew chief F84 1953. Would like to contact anyone in Flight B or C of 311th FBS, 58th FBW
Keywords: K2, 311th fbs, F84
Entry: 41252
Subject: 311TH FIGHTER-BOMBER SQUADRON LOGO AND/OR SIGN
Subject: 311TH FIGHTER-BOMBER SQUADRON LOGO AND/OR SIGN
Bill Gray wrote on February 25, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: RIVERSIDE CA
Unit: 311TH FBS, 58TH FBG
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: 311TH FIGHTER-BOMBER SQUADRON LOGO AND/OR SIGN
Hi,
I was in the 311th Fighter-Bomber Squadron in 1956-57. Our logo was a coiled snake made up of a belt of 50 cal. rounds. I have a copy of the logo before when it said just "311th Fighter Sq" --- but the one I am looking for is the later one which says "311th Fighter-Bomber Sq"
Also, when I was at Osan (K55), there was a sign at the entry of our squadron area which had a large "311th" logo on it and the words "Home of the Sidewinders" or maybe "Home of the Fighting Sidewinders."
If anyone has a photo of either or, preferably, both of these --- I will really appreciate having you e-mail me a copy. I am doing a memorial web site for a pilot, 1/Lt. Bob Ford, who was killed March 11, 1957 -- and these will add greatly to the web site.
Really appreciate any help you can give.
God bless, have a wonderful day,
Bill Gray
Riverside, CA
Keywords: 311TH, Sidewinders, Osan (K55), 58TH FBG, Photo of 311TH Logo and/or Squadron Sign
Entry: 41012
Subject: 311TH FBS, K55 OSAN, 1956-57
Subject: 311TH FBS, K55 OSAN, 1956-57
Bill Gray wrote on February 18, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: RIVERSIDE CA
Unit: 311TH FIGHER-BOMBER SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: Hi,
My name is Bill Gray and I was in the 311th FBS at K55 Osan from April 1956 to April 1957. I was in the Radar/Fire Control section. On March 11, 1957, we had a pilot, 1/Lt. Bob Ford, killed in an F-86 crash. I always remembered him and, by the grace of God, I was put in touch with his widow about six months ago. I am now doing a memorial web site for him. It is not finished, but you might want to visit. I still want to add several pages: one with those of us who remember him sharing our thoughts and memories; another showing our wonderful living quarters, work areas, planes, and life at K55 and in Formosa. If you have any photos you might share it will be helpful. I have some, but can always use more. Below is that web site as well as my personal web sites:
If you were in the 58th Fighter-Bomber Group, 311th FBS, 310 FBS, 69TH FBS, or any of our support squadrons who were with us in Korea and in Formosa; I would love to hear from you.
God bless, have a wonderful day,
Bill Gray
Riverside, CA
1/Lt. Bob Ford Memorial Web Site: http://www.ourchurch.com/member/h/HE-GAVE-ALL
Bill and Dory's Ministry Web Site: http://www.ourchurch.com/member/w/World_Christian
Keywords: 311th FBS; OSAN,KOREA; FORMOSA, 58TH FBG, RADAR/FIRE CONTROL SECTION, F-86F, 1/Lt. Bob Ford
Entry: 40530
Subject:
Subject:
Louie W. Berryman wrote on February 3, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: STANTON KY
Unit: 310TH FBS
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments:
Keywords:
Entry: 40529
Subject: 18968
Subject: 18968
Louie W. Berryman wrote on February 3, 2004
Email Update Needed
City and State: STANTON KY
Unit: 3
Service or Relationship: -
Comments:
Keywords:
Entry: 37673
Subject: MARILYN MONROE VISITS F-84 UNIT
Subject: MARILYN MONROE VISITS F-84 UNIT
Robert Johnston wrote on October 20, 2003
Email Update Needed
City and State:
Unit:
Service or Relationship: Interested Person
Comments: I was hoping somebody could provide me with info concerning Marilyn Monroe's visit to a F-84 unit during a USO tour. I am interested in finding out about the pilot on the wing with Marilyn and the aircraft nose art. The nose art appears to be the name "Mountaineer"? and has a heavily worn picture of a cartoon caricature of an old mountain man. Any info would be appreciated.
Keywords:
Entry: 37321
Subject: NEED HELP
Subject: NEED HELP
Charles L. Shreves wrote on October 3, 2003
Email Update Needed
City and State: VANCOUVER WA
Unit: 49TH AB SQD, 58TH FB WING
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: I need Help. I have filed a claim PTSD. The VA turned my claim down because they could not verify the incident. I was assigned to base operations parking A/C I don't remember the exact date I think it was July or August of 52 when ether the 310th or 311th was taking off on a sorte to North Korea. They were using jato assist because of the heavy load. after the first 2 groups took off. The next grp was taking off when one of the planes exploded clutering the runway. If you have any recollection of this incident please contact me
Keywords:
Entry: 36767
Subject: 58TH FIGHTER BOMBER WING
Subject: 58TH FIGHTER BOMBER WING
Wallace Chin wrote on September 7, 2003
Email Update Needed
City and State:
Unit: 310TH FIGHTER BOMBER SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: Wondering if anyone of the 58th Fighter Wing '52 to '53 remembers the rescue of Ivan Skinner(Monrovia, California) of the 310th FB Sq when he was shot down on a raid on the Wonsan oil complex on the east coast of Korea. He was lead man on the target, drew fire, and went down, squadron mates flew RESCAP till he was rescued. WC.
Keywords:
Entry: 35037
Subject: 49TH AND 58TH FBG HQ SQDN K2
Subject: 49TH AND 58TH FBG HQ SQDN K2
Richard E. (Dick) Predmore wrote on June 22, 2003
DeceasedCity and State: FULTON TX
Unit: 49TH AND 58TH FBW
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: Would like to hear from anyone who might have known me or was there at the same time 1952- Sep 53. I was in Hq Sq, Worked for Wing Adjutant (Lt Witt) and also worked in Statistical services
Keywords: Col. Rogers was our Bse Commander
Entry: 33463
Subject: TOPS IN BLUE PERFORMACE 26 SEP 1953
Subject: TOPS IN BLUE PERFORMACE 26 SEP 1953
Carol Sudy wrote on April 7, 2003
Email Update Needed
City and State: SAN ANTONIO TX
Unit: HQ AF SERVICES AGENCY
Service or Relationship: Interested Person
Comments: I'm putting together a book about the Air Force Entertainment Group, called TOPS IN BLUE. They are celebrating their 50th Anniversary this year. If anyone happen to see their show in K-2 in Sep 1953, I would love to have some info on the morale effect of the show during the Korean War. Did the show lift morale? What was your impression of the show? etc.
Keywords:
Entry: 32827
Subject: SEARCHING FOR FRIENDS
Subject: SEARCHING FOR FRIENDS
Howard Wayne Roberson wrote on March 16, 2003
Email Update Needed
City and State: SIMSBORO LA
Unit: 58TH WING 69TH SQUADRON
Service or Relationship: Air Force Veteran - Korea
Comments: Would love to hear from James E. Huffman,pilot,
A/C 827 A/C 077 Capt.Ingrassia also Pilot
Lt. Shellhous from New Orleans. Also maint.
personell. Ray Maloy-Virginia Fred Moller-CT.
Also cc Dewey Carpenter Chester WV AC
Also Major Ben Atwood our squd CO 1952 - 1953
All above personell were members of 69th Sqdn.
Let me hear from you. Robbie
Keywords:
Entry: 28081
Subject: BOOK ON U.S. AIRPOWER IN KOREAN WAR
Subject: BOOK ON U.S. AIRPOWER IN KOREAN WAR