Wallace Air Station
- MESSAGE BOARD -
70 Messages Since 4-21-02
Posted 7-5-02
Don Hornick, MSgt, USAF Ret., 72 - 78
dhornick@impulse.net
Great site! I’ve been waiting for someone to establish one for the best “remote” assignment the AF had. I was stationed at WAS from Dec 72 to Nov 78. I worked in Base Supply for 2 years, then assistant manager in the WASCOM for eighteen months, then to CE Materiel Control for the remainder of my tour. Married one of the waitresses, Helen Quilates, in 74. Our son Thomas was born in 76. Remember a lot of great people from my time there; Chief Mac, Gilbert F. Cain III, Tommy Thompson, Jeff Rice, Phil Steelman, Walter “Robbie” Robinson, Reno T. Clinger Jr., John Warren, Ray Brooks (especially all the great holiday meals we cooked on the boat, 1604), Bob Cormier, Hank Schwartz, Chuck Pavey, George Converse, Gary Dykas and probably too many names’ of others I’ve forgotten.Hufana Compound, the White Elephant, the Cherry Blossom & the Bullshitter’s Inn (Tommy Thompson’s second bar) – all great memories. I’ll scan some pictures later and send them on. I hope you have a lot of visitors and they contribute something to your efforts. The six years I spent at WAS were the best of my 24 year career. Appreciate your efforts.
Posted 7-18-02
Duane Baker, SSgt, 1961st Comm Squadron OL-F, 90 - 91
duane.baker@robins.af.mil
I am SSgt Duane Baker and I was in the 1961st Comm Squadron OL-F from March 1990 to March 1991. I am looking for a fire department guy who was stationed there at that time. His name is Jeff Stremmel. He was a SSgt then. Anyone knowing about where he is please email me.
Posted 9-7-02
Richard C. Morse, Airman 2nd Class, 1963 - 1964
MORSEHELEN@aol.com
I was a AC&W operator. Looking to contact a buddy with whom I was stationed at Wallace. A2C Michael Spence who lived in California.
Posted 9-30-02
David Chalifour, TSgt, Oct 86 - Jan 90
David.Chalifour@kadena.af.mil
I am TSgt David Chalifour and was stationed at Wally World from Oct 86 - Jan 90 as an AC&W Radar Specialist. I was a Sgt at the time. Would appreciate any contact information for a Sgt Michael McKeta, and Jerry Schnarr whom were Radar Specialists around this same timeframe. Also looking for Andrew Hamilton(?) who was a fireman from Kentucky. He went by Drew, made SSgt and got out. I believe Drew was at Wallace around 88-89.
Posted 10-0-02
Jeff Patterson, MSgt,
1986 - 1987, 1990 - Closure
Jeffery.Patterson@ramstein.af.mil
MSgt Jeff Patterson here.....was stationed at the BEST REMOTE in the Air Force twice, from 86-87 and 90-closure. My duties at Wally World involved AC&W Radar Maintenance, San Miguel sampler, and AC runner. I was an airman (A1C/SrA) first time, sergeant of some kind second time around. Anyone have contact info for Mick Unger? He was an operator over there during this timeframe, originally from New Orleans. Also, anyone else miss this kind of stuff......mango/banana dacquiris at the Driftwood or Cabana, $4 case of beer, cabins at Camp John Hay, weekend at Angeles, lechon (roast pig), playin liars dice at Ellens Bar, the Joker, the junction, green geckos at the WASCOM, mongolian bbq at Bali Hai, swimming at 100 Islands-Pangasinan, lbfm's.......I could go on & on.
Posted 11-22-02
David Jarrard, 1975 - 1976
David.Jarrard@dscr.dla.mil
My name is David Jarrard, I was an A1C while at Wallace from 1975 to 76. I served on Charlie Crew as a radar operator (scope dope). Wallace was the best assignment of my Air Force time. I served just one enlistment. Favorite memories are of the WASCOM, Cherry Blossom and trips to Angeles City. I was only 19 when I hit Walla Rock and took some time for me to get a true appreciation for the country and culture of the PI. I wonder what happened to some folks. Jesse Stokes and John Riggins come to mind. Some of the names Don Hornick mentions are also familiar.
Posted 12-28-02
Ed Goebig, MSgt (Ret), USAF, 72 - 73
scruffybuffalo@cox.net
Made it up to the best kept secret in remotes after tours at Baudette MN, Clark, and Finley ND. Took a long time to get used to the weather since I kept rotating mid winter for some reason. Working in the towers was great since several of them were refugees from Clark like me. Spent most of my tour working shift in the search tower but it gave me time to roam the area on my cycle. Also let me hit Clark and John Hay almost weekly. Reading some of the other postings bring back a lot of great memories. Martial Law and curfew, staying out past curfew at the Cherry Blossom and then sneaking to my house by the back streets, something I never would have attempted at Clark but felt safe to do up there, and the most memorable person in the formative years of my career Chief Mac. I worked for him down at Clark for a short time and was overjoyed when I found him and several other Roadrunners hiding out up there. Any other tower rats from 72-73 drop a line. Since I was force to retrain, the arm twist was pure torture, in 78 I did not get a chance to see any of the friends I made and over time have forgotten many of their names but would love to hear from them. One other thing that might jog memories of anyone who was there with me is the nickname Chief Mac bestowed on me. I still have the nicely engraved Zippo with the pie-eyed tigers of Walla Rock emblem, our unit, and small quote I received when I left. It contained a nickname I did not know I had received until then from the Chief, "Beetle". Looking back many years later after several promotions I finally understood how and why I got that nickname.
Posted 1-30-03
Roger L. Hoover, 1973
RHoover@aol.com
I am Roger L. Hoover, now retired Air Force, seeking my son who was born at Poro Point, La Union in August 1974. I was stationed at Wallace Air Station during 1973 and the girl I was staying with was named Christina Rivera, alis Petra Javalosa. I do have a birth certificate with the name of my son mistakenly put as Roger L. Hoover (same as mine), but we named him John. I have tried thru sources to locate John but have not been able to get him. Should anyone know of where he is, I would be happy to hear from him, and get to see him one day. Hope this message finds him and he is well and happy.
Posted 4-02-03
Ralph Sims, Sgt, 848 ADS/SPS, 1989 - 1990
rsims142@comcast.net
I was a Sgt assigned to the 848 ADS Security Police from May 1989 to May 1990. I have recently been contacted by several others who were there during that time and have renewed my interest and hopes in locating others.
Posted 4-06-03
Albert L. Rachel, Sgt, Det-6 1961, Comm 1979 - 1982
hwyflyer@earthlink.net
I would like to get in touch with anyone stationed at Wallace during my tour. I have been looking for Sgt Kevin Cook who married a local lady named Fanny. Please feel free to contact me for any info I may have. Thank you.
Posted 5-5-03
Stephen
Southerland, MSgt, USAF Chief, Specialized Contracting Branch,
Clark AB, 1985 - 1989
ssoutherland4@attbi.com
I was the Air Force Contracting Officer responsible for contracted drone operations at Wallace during my tour at Clark. My most fondest memory of Wallace was the quiet respite from the chaos at Clark and the famous "green flash" I saw only once. I currently live in Garland, Texas and work as Principle Subcontract Administrator for the UK ASTOR Program for L-3 Communications Integrated Systems in nearby Greenville, Texas.
Posted 9-02-03
Joseph Delsordo, SSGT
(E-5), 1974 - 1975
Radio Repairman, 1961st
Communications Squadron
josephde@ms21.hinet.net
Looking for any old buddies that remember me. Especially my scuba diving buddies. Looking forward to a reply.
Posted 9-30-03
Ed Rosina, E-4, 1966, 2876the GEEIA SQ.
ERosina@aol.com
Drove a deuce and a half from Clark to deliver some radar equip. Air horns were tuned to sound like Rabbit bus so people would move out of the way on road. Parking at the beach front motel with the truck took two spaces. We got $14.00 per a day TDY pay and lived like kings. Does anyone remember the dump site where we dumped the packing crates. It was a big hole in the ground that was connected to the sea. When the natives saw us comming they would paddle their canoes under the hole in the cliff and we would drop the packing crates down the hole and they would wave and thank us for dropping 4X4 lengths of lumber on their heads. They always seemed to just get out of the way just in time.
Posted 9-30-03
Clint Sherbondy, 86 - 87
and 90 - close
csherbondy@bresnan.net
(updated 6-13-05)
I was a "Scope Dope" Jeff Paterson I to have been looking for Mick off and on over the years. Have had no luck, thought I had him once and went to New Orleans. All I got out for that trip was a night in jail. I haven't looked for him sense. If you hear anything let me know.
Posted 9-30-03
David Hallam, 1982
- 1983
Duncan38@webtv.net
My name is David Hallam and I was stationed at Wallace from March 82 to March 83 as an A1C in the 848th ACW. I was also a police augmentee and participated in securing the base after Typhoon Faye came through and tore the heck out of Wallace in August of 1982. We sustained a large amount of damage and the base was never the same. I am looking for anyone who was stationed at Wallace during that same period. In particular Chuck Allen, Calvin Woodruff, Dave Andrews Alberta Hardy, Roberto Samudio, Scott Eagle. When I now think about my tour at Wallace I think of it with great fondness even though at that time I was somewhat discontent being so young and far away from home. Overall it was a very good experience.
Posted 9-30-03
Jeff Patterson
Jeffery.Patterson@ramstein.af.mil
In the preliminary stages of planning a get together for former Tired Tigers (Radar Maintainers) in the local area at former Wallace AS. Looking at early/mid Apr 04 for a week or so of fun in the sun. To date the following have expressed an interest: Dan (my eyeballs hangin out) Mark, Brad (I really did see the green flash) Thompson, Lenny (Mr Lumbinuk) Stephens, Jeff (Bar Fine King) Hopson, Jerry (The Beast) Schnarr, and myself of course. If interested drop me a line.
Posted 10-12-03
Randy "Benny" Benefield, 1985 - 1989
randybenefield@yahoo.com
Hi, this is MSgt Randy "Benny" Benefield, formerly a member of the "F Troop" 1961st OL-F. I was stationed there 8 Oct 85 to 29 Feb 89, arrived as a mosquito wing airman and left as a Sergeant. Worked Radio Maintenance the whole time I was there. I married the lovely cashier Lisa from Nina's bar. Have 3 kids now and doing fine in Germany. Feel like emailing? The address above will get me always.
Posted 11-29-03
Dennis Pflederer, 1969 - 1970
DPflederer@SPPC.com
I am Dennis Pflederer, I was a sgt at Wallace from 3/69 through 4/03. I worked in Radar maint. I wonder if anyone who was there during that time remembers Ron Schmidt? I would like to contact anyone from his family. He was shot one night and died while on assignment to Wallace. He was a great guy.
Posted 12-20-03
Cathy Horne (Barnett now), SRA & Sgt, AC&W, 1988 -
1989, 1990 - Close
CATHY.HORNE@WADS.MCCHORD.AF.MIL
Wow! It's pretty cool to see all the familiar names. I recently ran across Kurt Stoefen, who was with the Comm Squadron and he has been interested in finding Dave Steimle (sp?), I think he was a SSgt with Comm, too. If anyone remembers Fred and Grace Luce, they are doing well in Utah. I heard something about Mick Unger a few years back, but nothing recently.
Posted 2-11-04
Stevan "Steve" Turk, SGT, Jan - Dec. 1976
turkn8or@adelphia.net
Brings back many fond memories of W.A.S.! One of the best times of my life......wish I could have stayed longer. I worked in OPS on Charlie Crew. Some familiar names: Jesse Stokes, Buddy Liston, A1C Christy. Many names I can't remember, but I remember their faces as if it was last year. Separated from the AF in 1977 in California and still live there today. Stayed in touch with Buddy Liston for a few years. He changed AFSC to C-5 Loadmaster and retired in 1991. I emailed him recently but haven't heard back yet. I am planning to retire from the State (California) in 2005. My wife and I travel quite a bit and try to get to Florida once a year to visit her mother. I'm going to try to make the W.A.S. 2005 reunion in Panama City. Would love to hear from other WAS Alumni....drop me a line.
Posted 6-18-04
Marc Blecman, SGT, Radar Maintenance,
1990 - 1991
mrajz@netzero.com
Great to finally see a site for Wallace ASN! My wife, Russell, and I are looking forward to the reunion next year. Hopefully the timing will work and we can see everyone. Has anyone heard from Rick Camp or Dusty Rhodes? Junior or Senior.
Posted 8-23-04
Russell, Aldington H., TSgt - SSgt, 1989 - 1991
al_russell@hotmail.com
NCOIC Search Radar Maint, Military Customs Inspector, Fuels Inspector, Helicoptor Refueler, Gas Station Attendant, BX Ration Card Inspector, WasCom DJ, F-Troop, . (1 Job Mon) When Brad Thompson told me about the site, I broke off our instant messaging. It's nice to find a place where I can get in touch with friends from a fond past. I have a daughter (Venus Jahmina Casuga) in San Fernando. I am going on my 2nd visit sometime before March '05 to get my daughter a US Passport, thus will be in Manila a few days upon arriving. My date(s) are flexible. If anyone is interested or planning a trip there please contact me. I would love to have some company. My daughter's mom (Evelyn) will be letting me use her car during my stay there, so transportation is taken cared of. I have been in touch with Brad Thompson, Jeff Hopson, Herb Atkinson, Tyrone Grant & Eddie Rivera. They are all doing GREAT, considering the personality changing enviornment we all experienced at The Greatest Remote. Take Care and best of luck to all.
Posted 8-23-04
Mark Putnam, A1C, Det 2, 14th Comm Sq, December 1974
putnam.mark@comcast.net
Was stationed at Wallace on a TDY assignment out of Tokorozawa Japan. Thoroughly enjoyed the stay and would have preferred to have stayed longer ... Alas, it was not to be ... Some moments that I recall include: Going to the Combined club and seeing the sign "Check your Guns" at the door.. That I believe was at the coat check ... Being caught off base after curfew and spending the evening with a very nice lady who was kind enough to not push me to the street... (she was truly quite nice ...) A trip to Baguio - what a place... Catching scarlet fever & making a trip to Clark sicker than a dog ... would love to visit the Panama renunion ... Presently, I live in the Philadelphia, PA area.
Posted 9-6-04
Jeff Hopson, SSgt, 1985 - 1986 and 1988-Close
Jeffrey.Hopson@hickam.af.mil
Well I just can’t get PACAF out of the system. Been here at Hickam for almost 6 years, I have an assignment to Kadena. Wallace has to be the best assignment I’ve had in my 21 years. Great place and great people, hey all you radar maintenance toads i.e. Patterson and Chalifour. Looking forward to hear from some of you folks.
Posted 9-6-04
Michael Grimm, SGT, 1972 - 1973
mike@tf.bp.nrl.navy.mil
Radar Maintenance. This was my best tour during my enlistment.
Posted 9-6-04
Dennis Pflederer, 1969 - 1973
DPflederer@SPPC.com
I am Dennis Pflederer, I was a sgt at Wallace from 3/69 through 4/73. I worked in Radar maint. I wonder if anyone who was there during that time remembers Ron Schmidt? I would like to contact anyone from his family. He was shot one night and died while on assignment to Wallace. He was a great guy.
Posted 9-14-04
Dennis
"D" Shea, Maj USAF (Ret), SD Charlie Crew, Nov 77 - Nov
78
crewdog@arkansas.net
Thanks for the site! Brings back fond memories of my first and best remote and the first step in my escape from SAC (B-52's). The folks on Charlie Crew, my AF/Local friends, my 65 Ford convertible and the youthful experiences in the PI will always be a pleasant memory to me. You can pack a bunch of living in 12 months if you're not afraid to go through the Main Gate! I "escaped" to MAC and went on to T-39's, C-130's, and retired in C-21's after a serving in the 1st Gulf War. I'm getting old/gray now and have settled down back in Arkansas on a big Corps lake called Greers Ferry. When people ask what I do - I tell them that I'm a "Gentleman Lake Bum". Most career military types will agree that their good/bad times in the service were the best of their lives and few civilians can ever match our experiences! Any of my PI friends are welcome to drop me a line or stop by for a visit -- I'll check Ya out on my JetSki :-) CrewDog Out
Posted
9-14-04
Al Celaya, Feb
1972 - Feb 1973
alcelaya@msn.com
Aloha, from Texas. This is Al Celaya. I was stationed at Wallace with Det 2, 14th Comm Sq from Feb 1972 to Feb 1973 as a TSgt. I was supervisor for the teletype/crypto maint shop. Also had First Sgt and Training NCO duties, under Capt's Godzilla and Ernie Currier. Only remember a couple of names, SSgt Dirty Dan, TSgt Curley (Personnel), MSgt Zimmerman and Dan LeMaster (??), Sgt Agosto. Got reassigned to Goodfellow with Security Service, promoted to Msgt not long after getting here. Was Instructor and later Chief of the Printer Maint Branch of the Security Serevice Crypto School. Retired Dec 1975. Bounced around about 16 jobs before settling in with the state of Texas as an EEO investigator and later director for the whole program for a state agency. Quit and retired 1996-1997. Went back to work for 18 months. Then finally retired!!! My health not too good. Have had cancer (right kidney removed), eyelid surgery, gall bladder infection and removal of such, back surgery, Roto-Roter (prostrate) and will now be having neck surgery in a couple of weeks. Also now diabetic and after all my ills the VA only giving me 40 % disability rating. The wife and I have been married 47 years, my children all grown up, got me a B.A from Univ here, my oldest son played college football here when Univ won national small college championship (1978). Now have 7 Grandchildren, 2 Greatgrandchildren, and loads of steps-children. Anyone remember me drop me a line. C Ya 4 Now.
Posted 2-5-05
Jim Snyder, SSgt., July 79 - July 80
thetiredtiger@msn.com
My year at Wallace was one of the best in my life and surely the best of my time in the AF. Some of the people I met there are those I still consider to be my best friends. We were crazy, crazy, crazy! I was in Radar Maintenance and a member of the infamous Tired Tigers (hence the email address). Everyone wanted to be a Tired Tiger, and a few luck honorary members were included. Radar Maintenance won the base softball championship in 1980 and had everything pretty much its way. For those who were there during this period, you may remember the Great Bonka Boat Races, Country and Western Night at the WASCOM, the disco rebellions, and the beer soaked paper napkin fights at the WASCOM (officers and enlisted got in on this one). Of course, the Tired Tigers were right in the middle of just about everything that happened. It was wonderful, and I miss it in many ways. I am saddened to know it is all over, and that the political situation in the PI makes going there somewhat ill-advised. Still, all who served there are part of a very special cult-like community. I am happy to be a member. Attitude check anyone?
Posted 2-5-05
Fred W. Klingerman alias Wayne, A/1C
Clark 848 AC&W Lilly Hill April 1961 to March 1963
Wallace Air Station March 1963 to November 1963
fklinger1@charter.net
Looking for anyone who served there.
Posted 2-5-05
Ralph R. Bullock, 1985-86, A1C, 1988-89, SrA/Sgt
848 Security Police, Flight Leader
Ralph.Bullock@travis.af.mil
WoW. This is a blast from the past. I remember when the board at the Main Gate was "The Best Kept Secret of the Pacific". It is nice to see the old place again. I miss the friends which were made during that time. It was fun. Hello to my fellow cops and friend. Let me know about the reunion in 2005.
Posted 2-5-05
Bob Buikus Amn, A1C and SRA, 26Feb78----26Feb80
Transportation/Motor Pool (mechanic)
buiks36@cox.net
Best damn assignment anyone could ask for. Met and Married my first wife there and luckily 25 years later she's still my first wife.
Posted 2-5-05
William Scadin, 1961 - 1963
Scadin@gtlakes.com
Served at WAS in . I was an AIC at the time working in Radio Maintenance. As with most of you, I agree Wallace was a great assignment. In 1961 we lived in Quonset huts and the whole camp had probably 45 people assigned. SSgt Morales served really great food. Major Parmelee was Commander. I was in the 848th AC&W and later Det 6, 196lst Comm Sq. When my wife came over I lived in Bagio and commuted (car pooled) every day. Wore out a car that way. I went back in 66 from Vietnam and not much has changed. Now it looks like a city compared to what it was. Hope you all liked it. If anyone remembers me, contact me.
Posted 2-5-05
Kenneth Deuel, May 63 to Aug 64
kjbd62@midwestinfo.net
Air police, first in new buildings Kenneth Deuel a2c. I have many feet of 8mm film now video that I would like to share. There were 5 of us.
Posted 2-12-05
Mark Hilker, A1C-SGT., 3rd Tewts, 1984 -
1989
JUSJOE842@MSN.COM
I worked at Tango site. Those were the days, lots of memories. I recognize some of the names posted on this board I think. I hope to check back regularly. Can't wait to see some pictures!
Posted 2-15-05
SMSgt Jeff Hopson (Kadena AB) Wallace AS "Tired Tiger"
85 - 86 and 88 - close
Jeffrey.Hopson@kadena.af.mil
Made it to Kadena, already did a vacation in Cebu, didn't make it to La Union. I hear rumblings of a 2nd annual reunion in La Union, sponsored by the friendly neighbor hood Tired Tigers. Hey Chalifour, freezing your nunnies off in Iceland?
Posted 3-6-05
Jeff Patterson, SMSgt, Wallace AS “Tired Tiger” 86
– 87 and 90 – Close
Jeffrey.patterson@balad.centaf.af.mil
I had a nice vacation in La Union and Cebu this past Apr 04. Hooked up with Jerry “The Beast” Schnarr in Manila and then saw some of the old sites/old timers still hanging out around Wallace. Let me know if anyone is interested in meeting up sometime in Jun/Jul 05. I’ve got to get out of Iraq first, but I’m working on that too.
Radar ten hut!
Posted 4-10-05
James G. Rutledge, SSGT, Feb 64 - May 65
brutledge@tampabay.rr.com
I worked in Operations as a 27350. I want to say I was on "C" crew, I think, but it has been so long ago. In 1966 I retrained as a computer programmer and was assigned to NORAD doing the BMEWS. I retired from the AF in Jul 1977 as a SMSGT at Kneeler AFB. After that I worked in the Defense Industry doing software engineering for E-Systems, which became Raytheon. I retired from them in 1998. I live in Florida and am looking forward to the reunion in Panama City.
Posted 4-10-05
Tim Aukshun, Retired TSgt
1961st Det six 1974-1975, and 1961st OLF 1983-1985
tim@oceandeep.biz
Retired in the area and yep still scuba diving, now to depths of 245 feet. Still go the junction but most tourist go to Bauang near Cabana and Bali Hai where the go go bikini dancers are.
Posted 4-10-05
Russell, Aldington H., TSgt - SSgt, 1989 – 1991
Al.Russell@KRAB.AORCentAF.AF.Mil
I am presently working as a Contractor in Kirkuk, Iraq. I do O & M on the ATC Radar. I just got back from a trip to Luzon. There are about 3 times as many cars there as when I left in ’91. I drove by Clark Air Base; there was no signs of Ash anywhere. They are still trying to convert the Base into an Economic Zone (duty Free and Commercial). The San Fernando area was congested. I resorted to staying at home during the days and hanging out (just a little) at night. I ran into Jing Jing, Elmer and Irene from the WASCOM. They are doing Okay. They would not let me on to Wallace. The Philippino Air Force is still using it as an Air Base.
I am planning to take vacation in Jul/Aug, but I am not sure if I will make it to the reunion. I don’t want to spend that kind of money if there isn’t a good showing from the ‘90 – ‘92 folks. I am trying to get a Web Based Registry set up so that we can state whether or not we plan to attend the reunion. This would also be a good place to get e-mail addresses.
Posted 4-10-05
Dean Wineland, Wallace Air Station
Operations/Stan Eval 1983-1984, Operations/Stan-Eval 1986-1989
DeanWineland@Hotmail.com
I departed Wallace in 1989 with a COT to HQ 13AF, Clark and stayed until Pinatubo erupted. I love the PI so much I moved here when I retired from The AF.
Posted 4-10-05
Victor R. Hopkins Jr. TSgt, NCOIC 'W.A.S' Power Plant, Jan 91 to
Close
Victor.Hopkins@komag.com
Looking for CMSgt Ziggie and the rest of the crew. I know he goes back to La Union from time to time. He might be retired there.
Posted 4-13-05
Donald R, Mulkey, SSgt, Base Comm Center, Det 6, 1961CG Nov
79-Nov 80
dmulkey@hotmail.com
Miss all the great guys I met there, especially Al Rachel, my roommate amd partying buddy. Will always remember my time at "Walla Rock". The people there were GREAT! The Tired Tigers, 848th Scope Jocks and all the locals like bong-bong, rick, BIG freddy and the WASCOM Hoovers. We worked hard and Partyed hard. Best assignment I ever had. Looking to find friends I made there like "The Doc", "Crazy Zeke" and of course my best friend there Al Rachel. I still have my plaque that was given to me on my last night there. Fond memories. Donald R. Mulkey, MSgt USAF ret
Posted 4-22-05
Jerry Bannantine, 1976 - 1978
jbannantin@aol.com
Wow -- memories! Just seeing the WASCOM pictures was worth the Google search. My name is Jerry Bannantine, '76 - '78, 848ACWS crew dog for about half of my two year tour, then was a day-weenie for a year in stan/eval. I lived on 1st Street and ran the Cherry Blossum and Ellen's pretty hard. Also made numerous trips south to "Oz" on breaks and weekends with several crew dogs. I learned how to scuba dive at Wallace and played lots of softball and basketball. For those that remember (or might have owned), I drove the 1959 blue and white Ford known as the Blue Goose that didn't run very well or far, and kept getting sold to unsuspecting newbies by guys rotating home to the States.
I remember some of the names posted. Here's several more: John Ridley, Craig Motaka, Petey Peterson, Snake Radar, Gary Peeling ("peelings, nothing more than peelings"). I never knew Charlie Pepper while we were in the AF (he was stationed at Wallace twice -- right before and right after I was there), but ran into him in a local bar here in San Antonio. We didn't know each other, but recognized each other's names from Wallace stories told by others.
Posted 6-13-05
Doug Ferguson, Airman, 1988 – 1989
dougfe@yahoo.com
Woah, I thought that year in the PI was a dream. Wallace AS really existed huh? Where’s Pinkerton, Alvarez, Cavalier, Cheripka, Yamashiro and Kim Roetina? Was looking at some old videos I shot of all of us. God, what a dork I was. (sorry!) But I do have some good blackmail material if any of you ever run for senate! Just joking. I got out of the Air Force in ’90 and went to U of Florida. Been in New York City for 13 years. Time flies. Hope everyone is well.
Posted
8-8-05
Sgt. Scott Thallemer, 1989 - 1991
Fireman
thallemer@earthlink.net
Clint, I have also tried looking for Mick from time to time but I did not end up in jail. After the volcano I got out with Ronnie Marshal also a Fireman. I have become a nurse and just re-entered the Air Force as an Officer. (Good thing they don't have the pictures from Wallace) I miss the Hash runs and the Junction. If anyone knows the where abouts of Ronnie Marshall I would love to hear from him. ON-ON 2Lt Scott G. Thallemer
Posted
9-5-05
Larry Burdick, Msgt. Ret, 1973 -
1974
Search Radar Maintenance
Larry.Burdick@oln-afmc.af.mil
Walla Rock... hmmmm... the best assignment of my 21 year career. Spent lots a time at the Cherry Blossom and WASCOM. Worked with Mark Nixon, Larry Johnson, Gary Dykas and Chief Mac. Still remember the Sunday morning Canadian Club and scrambled egg breakfasts! God, nowadays I'd puke! Also, membership night was always a favorite! Still remember the Tropical Bugs playing "Say You Will". Gary Dykas' wife, Lina, was the singer. I married a Girl named Carmelita Ulla. We are divorced now but were married for 18 years and had two daughters. I attained the rank of Msgt. in the Air Force, the title I cherish most??? "TIRED TIGER!" Love to hear from anyone from Walla Rock!
Posted
10-9-05
Greg Ashley, March 1968 - April 1969
Greg.Ashley@gottlieb.skanska.com
Greetings to all who served at Wallace AS over the years. My name is Greg Ashley and I was stationed at Wallace from March of 68 to April of 69. It was without a doubt the best duty station one could ask for. I was a Sgt on Bravo Crew, 848 AC & W Squadron. Seeing the pictures brings back so many memories of those days. I will have to dig out some of my own and post them. Others on my crew were Lt. Mike (?) “Polly” Parrot, Lt. Ohta, MSGT Ernie “Chicken Man” Novey, John “Batman” Murphy, Ralph “papa cools” Kohl, Gary “Sam” Spade, Lanny Putman, Terry Huckstep, Mac “Junior” Barnes, Steve Payne, Dobie Enoka, and many others. If any you read this, drop me a line. What a time we had! We spent our time at the WASCOM and then headed for town to the C-Men’s Club and the place next door (can’t remember the name). Drank a lot of San Miguel (export only).
Posted 10-17-05
Dave Jones, A2, Air Control, 1963
gapinchapin@hotmail.com
Left the week JFK was shot. Played for the base basketball team.
Posted 1-23-06
Aubrey Collins,
Mar 1990 - Mar 1991
eyeinidas@yahoo.com
My name is Aubrey Collins. I love the pictures. This is what Wallace looked like when I was stationed there. I was there from Mar 1990 to mar 1991. I worked in the Navaids shop with Glenn Adams and Dan Feela. MSgt Yates was also a 304x1. I wish there were more pictures of "The Junction". Also, who took the pictures? I'm sure I know some of these guys. I didn't take enough pictures while I was there. And the one roll that I did take was lost before it was developed. I know Glenn liked to take pictures, though. It would be great to here from those guys again.
Posted 1-23-06
Sam Halburian, SrA, July 1981 - Jul 1982
(Retired 1999) Air Surveillance - Training Shop
sam.halburian@ultra-ats.com
My tour of Duty at Wallace AS was by far the best year I had spent anywhere at anytime. If not for a follow-assignment to AWACS at Tinker AFB, I may have never left the place! Many, many fond memories and I am grateful the A.F. provided me the opportunity to experience the PI.
Posted 1-23-06
Dan Wilson, A2c, Mid 60 - Feb 62
ltcmustang1@bellsouth.net
Just saying hello to anyone around then. Wish I'd found the site sooner. Live in Mobile, AL. Could have made the reunion. Nov 20, 05
Posted 1-23-06
Charlie
Pepper
July 1973 to July 1976, and July 1979 to 1981
PapaCharlieP@aol.com
My name is Charlie Pepper. I was stationed at Wallace from July 1973 to July 1976 and then again from July 1979 to 1981. The first tour I was a TSgt and the crew chief on Bravo Crew and also worked in the Ops Office. The second tour I was a MSgt and was OPS Training NCOIC. My wife is from San Miguel Tarlac and we married in December 1970. During my first tour my wife and I were together along with our two daughters who went to school on Clark. My wife and I returned for a second tour in 79 and left in 81. What a great place to be stationed. I miss all those good times and all of the troops. Paul Melton was stationed there (several times) and now resides here in San Antonio also. He is a very good friend. We go back to 1960. Tom Hampton was also at Wallace at the same I was. Others are Jesse Stokes, Hank Schertz, Roger Hathaway, Augie Clarke, Bummer Hodge, Chief Mac to name a few. What a great assignment. Best remote in the Air Force. Great times at the WASCOM, Baguio playing Golf and trips to Clark and Angeles city. I when to work in Civil Service at the Air Force Personnel Center at Randolph and retired again November 2001. My wife and I together have 5 children, 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Its great to view the Wallace Message board and recall some of those great memories.
Posted 1-23-06
Buck Brennan, CMSGT, OPS SUPT, 1976 -
1977
buckybre@earthlink.net
This is a short request. would any one that attended the reunion this past summer please e-mail me with how things turned out and is there going to be another one in the near future. Thanks.
Posted 12-26-06
William L Scadin, AlC, Radio Maintenance 1961-1963
Scadin@Peoplepc.com
I retired from the AF a CMSgt after 27 years. I remember WAS fondly. It didn't have all the great buildings that is there in the 80's. We lived in a Quonset Hut but life was great. Only 3 bars in Poro but plenty of San Miguel. Anyone remembering me can reach me at the email address listed.
Posted 12-26-06
Brian Matic, Dependent, 1988 - 1992
Son of Commodore Bayani Matic, CO Poro Point NAVSTA
m094098@usna.edu
My name is Midshipman Brian Matic of the United States Naval Academy class of 2009. My father was once Commanding Officer of the Philippine Naval Station Poro Point from 1988-1992 which was beside Wallace AS. I was wondering if you could tell me the name of the Commanding Officer of Camp Wallace during those years. The reason for my inquiry is because I am looking for the daughter of the CO of that base. I remember that we were friends back then. Anyway, I was curious whatever happened to her after the base closed and would like to make contact at some point.
Posted 12-26-06
Nancy White, 1983 - 1984
micah110@gmail.com
Nancy White here, I think I was about an airman while I was there, which was in Aug 83 to Aug 84. I was the supply CE material control, and worked for SSgt Birkemo and MSgt White - then later for a MSgt that I remember well, except can't remember his name -- in CE - hehehe, boy was I a smart ass back then! (maybe now too, I don't know...) I hung out with Tom Haley and whoever was watching a movie or hanging out at the club. That was my first time away from home, and left me quite homesick, but I did have a very good time while there --- oh, wipe that smile off your face - I mean I had a good time shopping the local markets, and taking dips in the ocean just off base, de-licious lobster dinners, although I think I missed out on the supposed beer runs. Very fond memories of Tom, Mike Hamilton, Gary Smith, Brenda Rutledge, and many others... Kept track of many people thru the years, but unfortunatley 20 years of PCSing will eventually cause you to lose track of many dear friends. I would love to hear from folks from that time frame... bring back some good old day memories ... I am retired now, and live in PA, so too far to go to that recent reunion, but I would have loved to go. Maybe will go next time.
Posted 12-26-06
Austin "Frankie" Blessard, 1990 - 1991
motofreaky@yahoo.com
Howdy! I think I hold the distinction of having the only motorcycle accident ON BASE. Wally World was a helluva first assignment. Thanks for the memories!
Posted 12-26-06
Robert F. Travis, 1/Lt C&E Officer 1959 to 1961
rtravis@stx.rr.com
I still see the base commander, Capt.( now Lt. Col. USAF Ret.) Earl Ray, and the base adjutant, Lt. (Now Brig, Gen. USAF Ret.) Elmer Brooks. I also kept in touch with S/Sgt Sam Houston until his death. Sam received a PhD in electronic engineering and worked in Fort Worth for a defense contractor. I would enjoy hearing from anyone else who was stationed with us at that time. After Wallace, I left the Air Force and worked for 40 years as a geologist. Now I am retired.
Posted 12-26-06
SSgt James Craig Williams, "CW", Mar 87 - Mar 88
elloco83@msn.com
NAVAIDS (TACAN) Maintenance!
Posted 12-26-06
A1C David Wheadon, 1961st, Ground Radio, Radio Relay Repair, 1959
- 1960
dwheadon@aol.com
First to answer Arthur Morales' Post dated 8-30-04 Looking for Romero (Air Force), Sgt Baldasarre (Army), Apuna (Army) and looking for a phone number on the base in order to try and get more info. Thank You
While I was at COD, there was a Jimmy Baldasarre, Army civilian employee, who was the supervisor of the power plant and other facility operations such as motor pool, and who married a Philippine national, retired from the Army, and stayed in the PI. I believe he was origionally from the northeastern US. He was a short guy and could really blow off steam when he got mad about how operations were not going right at the power plant or GI's were giving him a hard time. The PI was my first duty assignment after a year of tech school. I arrived at Clark 1/1/59 and COD a couple of months later, after working awhile at Clark FM Hill. There were approximately 65-75, half AF and half Army, transmitter site personnel and lots of Philippine nationals I worked with at COD. The new Page Communications troposcatter long haul comm site was really impressive as were the Army ACAN HF SSB transmitters. Seems the Army had the good equipment and AF the old stuff except for the two Microwave radio relay systems the AF maintained for the Clark Receiver site/Comm Center-FM Hill link to the COD transmitter site. Had to maintain an ancient TRC-1 FM radio link to Crow Valley they used as a phone line to Clark. Can remember the "Club" and movie theater, radio repair trips to Crow Valley and ROK F86 pilots setting the goony grass on fire at Crow Valley when they made extremely low runs, hunting expeditions into the Bataan mountains using a crummy AF .30cal carbine while my buddy had a nice 30-06 rifle, waking up in the early morning sunrise 30 yards from the Club, laying flat on my back in the middle of the COD ball field with a terrible hangover (also did that one weekend night on the seawall at Manila), three of us getting in trouble with our green 2LT site OIC and restricted to the site for a couple of weeks for shaving our heads (he was afraid someone at Clark would see us and want to know what the hell is going on up at COD), having the chow hall mess Sgt marinate a goat overnight that we had bought from one of the Philippine nationals to barbecue, then running out of goat to eat, drinking too much beer, then shooting a dog out past the checkpoint, carrying it in and roasting it, running out of fire and eating that half cooked dog. The complimentary San Miguel brewery tours at Manila was always a good spaghetti and beer event. As was Tanduay (sp.) Rum and Coke. Had a hard time with the beer over ice when drinking at Capas while waiting for a bus to COD. SSgt Hart, a really big man from Bastrop, LA, was the AF AP NCOIC of security at COD and Crow Valley. He was so heavy that his jeep had a permanent list, even when he got out of it. Was funny to see him trying to bounce on the door frame to try strightening it out. Had the movie theater projectionist job for awhile and remember putting a whole reel of "The Ten Commandments" on the projection booth floor while we sat out in the theater and drank surplus Champagne we had "obtained" somehow from the "Club". We just laughed n laughed like drunk skunks at the film mess when we saw it. Had a wife and child back in the states, so didn't even leave the base or site for about a year. Then found out how great Manila was for weekend pass place to go. Met some sailors in Manila one weekend and spent the night on their Essex class aircraft carrier, the Bon Homme Richard in Manila Bay. That was a great experience. Didn't find out about Camp John Hay until about one month before I left the PI. Took the train up to San Fernando, La Union, and bus from there to Baguio and Camp John Hay for a weekend. Remember the sweet smell of the PI Sampaghita tree blossoms. When I rotated back to the states June 1960, there were many new mobile transmitter van systems being instaled at COD to support the southeast Asia build up. What was the Capas, Tarlac transmitter site in later years, I see mentioned in posts for that site? at http://www.usmilitarypi.com/capastarlac_message.htm Did it replace the COD transmitter site?
Posted 12-26-06
Mike
Nieman, July ‘73 - July ’75
mike@chesapeakescuba.com
My name is Mike Nieman. I was a sgt in Radar Maintenance stationed at Walla Rock from July ‘73 to July ’75. Every one has great memories of Chief Mac and I’m no exception. I liked his story about how he came to have the bullet on his key chain. Other guys I worked with include Gary Cramer, Larry Burdick, Gary Dykas, Marcus Grant Nixon from Yazoo Ms, SMSgt Fontaine, Bummer Hodge, and more whose names elude me at the moment. I did a lot of scuba diving while there and remember several divers: Jerry Dorminey whom I’ve maintained contact and friendship with, Ray Grant (I read he had passed – not sure), Theron Haunschild, Joe Delsordo, Tim Aukshun and more. I married Linda Fausto in ’74 we were divorced in ’80. We are still friends though. I now have a scuba shop in Annapolis MD. I look forward to hearing from anyone I might know.
Posted 12-26-06
Steve J. Kapp, MSgt, Retired 1988 - 1991 (the day it closed)
kalbosjk@sbcglobal.net
Great to see all the familiar
names. I was in the 1961st CG OL-F while at Wallace.
My wife, Rowena used to work at the
Seabreeze Restaurant. We have been back several times
and plan a trip next year. I sure miss my days at the best
remote in the USAF! Steve J. Kapp,
USAF, Retired
704 West 5th Street
Grove, Oklahoma 74344 Home (918) 786-5759
Cell (918) 791-1262
Posted 12-26-06
Chris McClain, 1983
chris031960@sbcglobal.net
My name is Chris McClain I was stationed with the 848th in 1983 as an AC&W operator (276xx). I would like to hear from some of those I was stationed there with. We had a group of us called the "BeastMasters".
Posted 11-25-07
SGT. Marc Blecman, Tired Tiger, 90 -
91
mrajz@yahoo.com
Visited Wallace this past July 07. VOA has/is being converted to casino and hotel vacation spot. It was pretty nice and spent a night gambling and drinking with freinds and in-laws. Russell (my wife) and I visited Wallace as well. Managed to talk the PAF into letting us on the base. It was a quick trip and no picture taking allowed. We also had an escort. The base is hard to recognize thru the changes the PAF have done. A couple of new buildings, rerouted part of the roads and removed a couple of smaller buildings. They wouldn't let me near the towers (I was hoping to see if the pepper bushes were still by the radar towers) or up the road toward the WASCOM or the main part of the base but we could still see most of it from where they let us go. Guess I got 1 the rest of you didn't. For me it was sad to see my memories have changed. No reason for me to ever go back now as it isn't the WALLACE I remember anymore. Things never seem to stay the same except in your head. Anyway, I have a foto album full of memories the way I remember it. Not to mention 16 years of an awsome marriage from the girl I met there and a couple of awsome kids...
Posted 11-25-07
Tom "Jake" Jacobson, SSgt, Security Police, 1971 - 1973
tomjac0850@chater.net
Wallace was the best assignment I had during my 20 years. Too bad it had to end. I would have stayed there forever if I'd had my way. I still am in touch with Craig McKay, Rick Beach, and Don Daniel. For a time I was in touch with Norma Tesch, the cute, skinny girl who sold the Stars and Stripes in the snack bar. I'm still hoping to hear from Pete Nichols, Don Ready, Gil Kain, Guy Symosko, Jim Oliver, Mike Reagan, or any other guys I was close to at Wallace. I'm a retired E-7 living in Eau Claire, WI now. E-mail me.
Posted 11-25-07
SGT Terry D. Lambert, Security Police, Camp OD, 1978 - 1980
cte23348@centurytel.net
Looking for my MUSE! or BLUE, H. Jones, R. Ray, T. Cagwin, B. Fisher, M. Regis, K. Gahan or any of the others from C.O.D. Miss the Gang!
Posted 11-25-07
Irvin Feldman, A2C, 1959 - 1960
irvinf@sbcglobal.net
Irvin Feldman here was A2C and stationed at Wallace shortly after arriving at Clark in '59. Left Jan. '60 to return to the states for discharge. Assigned to 1961st AACS and Wallace to maintain the TACAN and Beacon. As this "Old Man" remembers, biggest job was hauling diesel fuel trailer out to the mobile TACAN unit, checking the beacon--hear it on the EE8 phone system and reporting in to Clark that everything OK. Spent most the time in the library--had A/C.
Posted 11-25-07
Bob Bailey, A1C/Sgt, May 1971 to June 1972
AC&W Radar Operator
bobb02@comcast.net
Fond memories of my first USAF assignment out of tech school. I've recently been scanning my slides into jpeg format on my pc and am seeing pictures of Walla Rock and friends that I haven't looked at in probably 30 years. Definitely a trip down memory lane. I was only 18 years old at the time. Friends names that come to mind: SSgt Fred Pike, A1C Mike Mooers, Sgt "Holly" Hollister, A1C Neil Roberts, A1C Bob Fulmer, Sgt Bob Burnham, Sgt Mike Brady and many whose names escape me at the moment. Wild times at WASCOM. Great snorkeling on Wallace Beach and off the coast at Nalinac. Some of the fondest memories of my life. When I left Wallace, I cross-trained into Air Traffic Control at Keesler AFB, and from there to RAF Upper Heyford, England, then on to work for the FAA at Denver Center. I'd love to hear from anyone stationed at Wallace Air Station.
Posted 11-25-07
Jeff Stremmel, 1990 to 1991
lrentzel101@comcast.net
I was stationed at Wallace from 90 to 91 and was there for the closing. My name is Jeff Stremmel and I was a SSgt in the fire department. I seen where an old friend SSgt Duane Baker tried to contact me back in 02 from this message board. Thank you for having this contact site and if any of my old buddies want to contact me, I would love to hear from all. I would love to know about any reunions upcoming and would love to say what a great tour Wallace was during my Air Force career. Thanks again.
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