VP-5 Squadron Shipmates
http://www.vpnavy.org
VPNAVY Address

ShipmateVP-44 ShipmatesShipmate

ALDEA, Mike aldeam@aptea.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1971 through 1974. I worked in the Tron Shop with Jesse Castillo and Ty Greeves. The thing I remember most about the squadron were all the guys hidding long hair underneath the wigs they wore with their ball caps. Also the big drug bust in Rota as we ended the deployment in 1972. I managed to join and leave the squadron without ever having any of the normal interviews with the CO. Also managed to get my "crow" without the normal ceremony in front of the squadron. Only time I got caught having to wear a dress uniform was for a NAS Bermuda Change-of-Command ceremony while we were deployed there. My best memory is the 36 hour liberty hop I got to go on to Amsterdam from NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. Considering VP-44's history I'm surprised the Navy didn't choose other squadrons to decommission instead..." [12JUN2000]

UPDATE "...Mike Aldea's comment about long hair and wigs reminded me that I was the one who started the trend..." Contributed by Robert M. "Robin" Tappan robert.tappan@yahoo.com [10JUL2010]

ALLEN, AD2 Raymond Wesson ray.allen01@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 for about 8 months prior to its distestablishment. I then transfered to VP-8. Served late 1990 until 8 year tour was completed in June 1993. If there is anyone who served in VP-8 at that time I would sure love to hear form you. Sure had a blast in NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. Any jet mechs still out there? If anyone knows the whereabouts of Lisa Hubach please tell her to find me in Lewisville, TX. I hear NAS Brunswick, Maine is on the list. Sad to hear. I have a charcoal drawing of a P-3 over my fireplace and people still ask me about my service. Got Navy stuff all over my house and am damn proud to have been a part of the VP world. All yall active duty people keep em' in the air and you FE's get em' there and back and keep em' dry!..." [E-Mail Updated 10AUG2010 | 31DEC2005]

ANDERSON, LCDR Milt Retired wtfo230@aol.com "...Howdy to all the P-3 Bubbas out there! I served in VP Squadrons most of my 21 years in the Navy. Started out with VP-4, VXN-8 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (per diem heaven!), VP-44, VP-10, and CPW-11. I'm a Mustang LCDR that started out as a Radio Operator in P-3A's. Enjoying retirement but miss those 12-hr ASW's, getting some kills and bringing the crew safely home to toss back a few..." [21JUN2002]

ARCHIBALD, Kenneth W. "Archie" rcheeze@me.com "...I served with VP-44 between from July 1966 to July 1968. I was a sensor operator on Crews 9 and 11. We deployed NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, NS Rota, Spain, and NAS Bermuda from NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Anyone of sound mind who want's to talk, drop me a line..." [E-Mail Updated 25MAR2009 | 14JUL2003]

AVIS, CAPTAIN Ed Retired ed@avisfamily.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1972 to 1975 with deployments to NAS Bermuda and NS Rota, Spain/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, Naval Education and Training Center Newport (NETC) from 1975 to 1978 and left active duty in 1978. I joined the Naval Reserves in 1983 and drilled at NAS Brunswick, Maine until 2000. I was CO of two USNR TSC units at NAS Brunswick, Maine. I retired from USNR on 01 OCT 2000. I still work at NAS Brunswick, Maine as Director of Information Technology..." [E-Mail Updated 25JAN2008 | E-Mail Updated 01JAN2002 | 22DEC2000]


BARBER, Charles A. chlee1@optonline.net "...Served with VP-44 out of NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from August 1962 until January 1964. We and VP-8 received the first P-3As. Kennedy was assasinated during my tour. Prior assingnment was NAS Kodiak, Alaska from April 1961 to April 1962..." [02JAN2006]

BAKKER, MCPO Denny Retired pecanguy@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1967-1971), VP-30 (1971-1974), VQ-2 (1974-1977), VX-1 (1977-1979), Navy Military PersonnelCommand (NMPC) Detachment NAS Dallas, Texas (1979-1985), VP-24 (1985-1988) and VP-30 (1988-1991). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 08DEC2014 | E-Mail Updated 01OCT2000 | E-Mail Updated 03SEP99 | 09NOV97]

BALOGH, AW3 Tom tfbalogh@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 (1969-1971)...." [25MAY2022 | 20NOV2001]

BARBEE, ATCS(AC) Stephen N. Retired stephenbarbee@comcast.net "...VP-21 ('67-'69 decommissioning), VP-44 ('69-'71), NAMTRA ('72-'75), VP-45 ('75-'78), Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) ('78-'81), VP-26 ('81-'84), BUPERS ('84-'88). Recently heard of the web page and appreciate someone talking the initiative and having the courage to develop such a page. I love reading the stories, especially from Shipmates I've served with in the respective squadrons. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me and I will try to respond..." [E-Mail Updated 13APR2005 | 05NOV98]

Memorial Picture "...BARDAKOS, Antonio (Tony)...My father enlisted in the Navy in 1940. Dad served with VP-31 (October 1941 to April 1943), VB-126 (April 1943 to June 1943), HEDRON FAW-7 (July 1943 to August 1943), VP-6 (August 1943 to September 1943), VB-126 (September 1943 to October 1943), VPB-44 (October 1943 to December 1944), and finally HEDRON 5-2 (February 1945 to March 1945). Carol J. Rogers mbardakos1971@yahoo.com..." [19FEB2004]

BARGER, Dave Retired davidbargersr@cs.com "...I served with VP-17 from 1965-1969 ( NAS Whidbey Island, Washington and NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii), VP-31 from 1971-1974, and VP-44 from 1978-1981. Retired in '84. I teach school. Math, Spanish, and Physics..." [24DEC2001]

BARKER, AMCS David Retired dbarker6636@charter.net "...I served with VC-61, VJ-61, VP-61, VP-47, ATU-401, VW-13, VP-11 (August 1957 to February 1958), VT-7, VP-44, VP-50 (1969 to 1971) and retired in 1971. I am having trouble confirming that while serving we VP-50 - I was at NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam while we were in the Philippines. I was the one that got the plywood to remodel the Beer Mess for a case of beer. I hope someone will remember. I was the Senor Chief in QA..." [BIO Updated 03JAN2010 | 11MAY2006]

BARKER, AECS Paul Retired pbarker@chartertn.net "...I have served at AIMD, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, 78-79; OMD NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida, 79-81; HM-14, NAS Norfolk, Virginia 82-85; VP-44 86-91; NRL Flt Sup Det. 91-94; NAS Keflavik, Iceland, IC Station UP-3A (OMD) 94-97; Force Aircraft Test Squadron 97-2000.." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 25JAN2002]

BARKER, AT3 WILLIAM WJB8769@AOL.COM "...I served with VP-44 from 1990 til decom and VP-23 from 1990 to 1993. I'd welcome e-mail from some of my former Shipmates and friends..." [14APR99]

BARNA, AD1 Bob Retired barna@fairpoint.net "...I served with VP-44 (1971-1974), VP-26 (1979-1984), VP-10 (1986-1988) and retired in 1988. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [05SEP2013]

BARRETT, CPO Denny Retired dcbmjb@blazenetme.net "...I served with VP-26 (1962-1972) P2 Plane Captain / P-3 FE, NAS Brunswick, Maine Staff (1972-1975), VP-44 (1975-1976) P-3 FE, CPWL NAS Brunswick, Maine Staff (1976-1981) Aircrew Training Coordinator and retired in 1981. I have been Manager of the NAS Brunswick, Maine Fuel Farm (1986-Present) and will retire when base closes in 2011..." [20DEC2007]

BARROWS, Grant A. p3a44@aol.com "...Joined VP-44 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia September 1961. Went to NAS Sigonella, Sicily on last deployment as P2 outfit. Went to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland for transition to P-3's. Worked in Avionics Department. Would like to here from some of the old guys who lost all their money in Lexington Park slot machines..." [25JUN2005]

BARTLETT, AN Brian K. texasyankee7@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1989 till its disestablishment. I moved to VP-11 til 1993 when my time was up. I really enjoyed going to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. NAS Sigonella, Sicily was a real nifty place also. I was stationed at NAS Brunswick, Maine and am sad to see it close due to BRAC..." [30JUN2006]

BARTON, CDR Mike Retired rednronnie@aol.com "...Naval Aviator, Active Duty 1974 to 1994. I served with VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine LT 1978-1981 / NAS Keflavik, Iceland 1979, WESTPAC - NSF Diego Garcia - Persian Gulf 1980-81. VXN-8 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland LCDR 1984-86, South America, Antartica, Denmark, Scotland, Africa, Alaska and Iceland. Golden Pelicans were once in a lifetime tour, two E's out of three years, some of the best people in world..." [30NOV2008]

BARTZ, Gary T. fniguy@gate.net "...Served with VP-44 in NAS Keflavik, Iceland from 01/06/67 to 12/31/67 Iceland ASW Group. Hope all you guys are alive and well..." [09APR98]

BASS, AMEC Thomas Retired twodogs@stargate.net "...Was station VP-30 in 1970,71 and then transfered to VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine and made the 1971 deployment to NAS Bermuda. Was a ground pounder worked for Master Chief Hammersmith and AMEC Hassel in the check crew. Ended up retiring in 1989 as the COMRESUPWING C9B Maintenance Chief (AMEC Ret.) Currently living and working in Pittsburgh Pa for USAirways on the DC9/MD80 Tech Desk..VP-30 and VP-44 where two of the greatest learning experiences I had in the USN..." [17APR2001]

BEASLEY, ATC(AW) Dave Retired meraptor@mindspring.com "...I was the Lockheed Squadron Representative for VP-44 during the transition to the P-3C UII from 1978-1980. I went on deployment with the Pelicans to Iceland for their first operational deployment in the new aircraft. Was in VP-16 from 1971 thru 1975. I made one NAS Bermuda, one NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and one Iceland deployment with the squadron. In 1980-1982 returned to Sixteen in my civilian capacity as a Squadron Training and Readiness Team Representative for the Lockheed California Company. Maintain contact with a couple of other of Shipmates (Jim Brink to mention one) from that same era..." [E-Mail Updated 09JAN2000 | E-Mail Updated 02JUL98]

BECK, Ray raybeck55@hotmail.com "...I served in VP-44 from 1961 to 1963. During that period was Flight Technician and Radioman on Crew 4, Crew 2, and CDR Andrew Serrell's Crew 1. Flew on P2V5F BUNO 131518, P-3A's 148885 and 150505. I served with Project Trim VAH-21 from 1967 to 1969. I was Flight Technician and Radioman on Crew 4. I retired in July 1979 as a Chief Petty Officer..." [06SEP2000]

BERBERICH, CDR Larry Retired larryberberich@comcast.net "...I served with VP-44 (08/1968-02/1971) Anti-submarine Warfare Technician/Aviation Electronics Technician with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Sigonella, Sicily (first P-3s to go there) and NS Rota, Spain- NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. Left the Navy to attend college. VP-6 (05/1976-05/1979) Avionics Branch Officer, NFO NATOPS Officer, Tactics Officer with deployments to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. Transitioned into the 'Super B' aircraft. VP-31 (06/1979-1982) NFO Instructor and CNAP NFO Evaluator for the P-3 A/B, P-3B Update and the EP-3A. Commander Carrier Group Three (1982-1984). Two cruises aboard USS Enterprise as the Flag Secretary. Naval War College (05/1985-05/1986). VP-44 (08/1986-11/1989). Assistant Maintenance Officer, Training Officer, Operations Officer with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NS Rota, Spain- NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. Commander Patrol Wings Atlantic staff (11/1989-06/1992). Battlegroup Operations Officer. Tactical Training Group Atlantic (06/1992-03/1994). VP Operations Instructor. Retired in 1994 and now reside in Brunswick, Maine where I just retired from teaching (Biology) at Brunswick High School after 14 years. I am currently an elementary substitute teacher with the Brunswick and Topsham, Maine schools. Also I am a Master Maine Registered Guide and have a company named Hook & Gun Guide Service..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 03JUN2017 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 31DEC2009 | BIO Updated 04MAY2000 | 05APR2000]

BERCH, STG2 Jerry berch67@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in 1969 (deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily). VP-44 moved to NAS Brunswick, Maine in 1970 (deployed to NAS Bermuda). Worked for Avionics Senior Chief Hooker in Maintenance Control. Separated from the U.S. Navy in August 1971. Returned to active duty as a NAVET in December 1984 as an Ocean Systems Technician, Maintainer (OTM). Will be retiring with more than 25 years of honorable, faithful and dedicated service, in May 2004, as a Sonar Technician, Geographic (STG2), from Naval Ocean Processing Facility (NOPF) Dam Neck, Virginia Beach, VA, with Reserve Unit 83154. Currently living and working in Virginia Beach, VA, as a Logistics Engineer, for Northrop Grumman, subcontracted by SPAWAR to monitor Raytheon's Relocatable Over-the-Horizon Radar (ROTHR) contract..." [19JAN2004]

BERRY, Cherlyn J. cherlynberry@hotmail.com "...I worked in the Admin Office and CMS Vault at VP-44 from April 1987 through October 1989. I remember the wonderful times that were had during our deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NS Rota, Spain and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. I'm curently at NAVMEDCEN Addictions Rehabilitation Department, Norfolk, VA as the Chief Administrator. I would love to hear from my Shipmates from those glorious times. Please drop me a greeting at anytime..." [14JUN2001]

BISHOP, Harold G. chiefbishop@att.net "...I served with FASRON-116, VFAW-3, VX-4, VP-44, VP-19, VP-31, VF-152 USS Princeton (CV37) and VF-653..." [E-Mail Updated 17FEB99 | 29JAN98]

BLACK, Jamie nextel6@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1986-1990) as a Avionics Technician and retired in 2000. Now Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA..." [13DEC2017]

BLACKWOOD, Michael Steven Retired stebar2@frontier.com "...I served aboard NAS Oceana, VA (1967), VP-44 (1971) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and VP-60 at NAS Glenview, Illinois until retirement in 1994..." [E-Mail Updated 23AUG2012 | 03OCT2006]

BLAINE, Frank Frank.Blaine@ogs.state.ny.us "...I was in the tron shop in VP-44 from 78-81. They were some good times. Just seeing if anybody else remembers..." [19DEC98]

BLAIR, Harold O. blaircastle@juno.com "...I served with VP-21 from June 1941 to January 1942 and VP-44 from March 1942 to June 1943. Looking for former Shipmates..." [08DEC2003]

BLANKENSHIP, Jim awchief@home.com "...Attatched to VP-31, VP-1, VP-30, VP-44, VP-23, and VP-26 over the years. I also did tours in AW "A" (instructor) and ASWOC/TSC NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Retired in '86 after logging time in P5M's, P2V7's and P-3A/B/C(Update II)'s. Would like to hear from any "old" (we are all a bit older now) Shipmates from any of those squadrons..." [10NOV2000]

BODEN, AMH1 (AW) Pete Retired pboden19@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-11 from December 1988 to May 1994 and a tour with VP-44 from April 1982 to October 1985. I am currently serving with VP-45 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida...I retired 3 years ago and have continued seeing more of the world than I thought I would. I work for a Mechanical Contractor and have enjoyed those perdiem checks that we have heard of but never seen. If your browsing the boards give me a shout..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 08JAN2007 | 29JAN2000]

BOND, AT1 William H. Retired wbond@estl.org "...I served with VP-44..." [13JAN2000]

BONIFACE, CAPTAIN William S. http://users.wpi.edu/~wguinn/nrotc/co.html "...Captain Boniface graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science degree and reported to his first assignment as First Lieutenant aboard USS LEAHY (CG-16) homeported in Norfolk, VA. While there, he completed a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and qualified as Combat Information Center Watch Officer (CICWO) and Officer of the Deck (OOD) Underway. Following flight training in 1974, he was assigned to VP-44, where he served as Nuclear Weapons Training Officer, Pilot Training Officer, and Flight Officer. During this period, he deployed to NS Rota, Spain, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, and NAS Bermuda flying the P-3A aircraft. In 1978, he was assigned to the Executive Department at the U.S. Naval Academy, where he served as a Company Officer and Officer Representative for the Naval Academy Sport Parachute Team. During this tour, he earned a Master of Science degree (Public Administration) from the George Washington University. Captain Boniface next served as Communications Officer aboard USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62) homeported in Norfolk, VA, where he deployed to the Indian Ocean during the Iran hostage crisis and to the Mediterranean Sea during Lebanon contingency operations. During this period, his department was awarded two COMNAVAIRLANT Battle Efficiency Awards for Communications. Following his tour aboard USS INDEPENDENCE, he reported to VP-10, where he served as Maintenance Officer and P-3C Update II Plane Commander/Instructor Pilot, deploying to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Bermuda, and western Africa. During this tour, VP-10 was awarded consecutive Arnold J. Isbell Trophys for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Excellence. Captain Boniface was next assigned to the Naval Military Personnel Command in Washington, D.C. where he served as the VP Placement Officer. He subsequently reported as Executive Officer of VP-23 homeported in NAS Brunswick, Maine in 1987. He assumed command of the Squadron in 1988 and conducted deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NS Rota, Spain, and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. Following his command tour, he served in the Bureau of Naval Personnel as an Aviation Commander Detailer. Following his subsequent graduation from the National War College, he reported the the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defence (International Security Affairs), where he served in the Near Eastern and South Asian Affairs division as Country Director and Acting Director. Captain Boniface is a qualified Naval Parachutist and sport parachuting enthusiast. His military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Two Meritorious Service Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, and various unit awards..." [02JUL2003]

BONNEAU, HM1(AW) Bruce "Bones" Retired mrbonz@hotmail.com "...Served as corpsman & senior corpsman with VP-44 from Aug 1980 - Jun 1984. Have been retired since 1993 and living in Yuma, Arizona...." [20DEC97]

BORASKI, Joseph L jbski@bellatlantic.net "...Served in VP-44 from 68 to 70 and left from NAS Brunswick, Maine...Discharged as AE2..." [20JAN98]

BOUDREAU, AMS1(NAC/EAWS) Dennis R. "Bou" Retired kathyandbou@gwi.net "...I served with VP-10 (1968-1977), VP-23 (1977-1980), VP-44 (1980-1982), NAS Brunswick, Maine (1982-1983), VPU-1 (1983-1986) and retired. I went to work at NAS Brunswick, Maine and retired in 2009. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [BIO Updated 22MAY2012 | E-Mail Updated 14NOV2004 | E-Mail Updated 11OCT99 | 30JUN98]

BOZICH, Robert RobertBozich@TAPnet.net "...Hi Shipmates. Began flying P2Vs with VP-11 in 66 and transitioned to P-3As 67. Went to NPGS 70-72. Ships company, CATCC, on the Kennedy 72-74. Primary instructor in VT-1 NAAS Saufley Field, Florida, 74-76. Back to flying P-3Bs with VP-44 in 76 and transitioned to P-3Cs in 77. Defense Mapping Agency, St. Louis, Program Manager on Navigational Moving Map Displays from 80-84. Retired in 84. Currently Program Manager with Allied Signal..." [30AUG98]

BRACKEN, AW2 Carl cjbracken2@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 and VP-10 as SS1 Operator from 1988 to 1992. Last stationed at NAS Brunswick, Maine flying with CAC-3 with VP-44 and CAC-1 with VP-10. Was apart of the disestablishment of VP-44 and alloted to VP-10 just before another deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Did a tour in NS Rota, Spain, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Looking for old flymates..." [24SEP2004]

BRADBERRY, CWO Bill Retired bbrad4000@hotmail.com "...Brothers, Bob, Bill and Bo(Larry) served with VP-44 late 50's thru P-3 transition. All three retired and living here in small orginal home town of Wytheville, Virginia (intersection of I-77 and I-81). Give us a call sometime!..." [E-Mail Updated 06FEB2001 | E-Mail Updated 03NOV2000 | 19OCT2000]

BRIGANDI, YN3 Mike brig055@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 (1978-1980) at NAS Brunswick, Maine..." [03JUN2014]

BROGDON,AWC(AW/NAC) Rob Retired rbrogdon@mindspring.com "...VP-49 (76-79); VP-1 (82-86); VP-44 (88-91); VP-23 (91-92); VX-1 (92-95). Mostly Non-Acoustic, P-3s: BMod SuperBEES, C Baseline; CMod, CUIII/IV. I could not ever speak of my career without attributing the credit to three very specific influences: AOCS Harold D. Connor (yeah, I know.. a bb stacker); AWC Don Perkins and AWCS Rod Pitts..." [ICQ# 8327021] [15JUL98]

BROWN, Glen gbrown@freewwweb.com "...I began my VP tour as a 2nd mech "AD3" with VP-44 in Feb. 1976 while they were in NAS Bermuda and trained in CAC-3 with "FE" AD1 Jim Snelgrove. After VP-30 & FE school in '78 I came back and eventually got the FE job with CAC-5. Was at VP-44 for the transition from the last P-3"A" to the first "Charlie Update II". It was great because we could do it the new computerized way or when that broke down we could do it the old way. Was on the Iceland deployment and the "West PAC" deployment before I was restationed at VX-1 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1980 to 1983. Left the VP Navy in 1983 to do 1 tour with VA-66 "Cecil Field" on the Eisenhower, CVN-69 before I ended up with limited duty and finally a "Medical" Discharge in 1987. I've since been to college for a "music education" degree and am a substitute teacher in Florida and a church music director. Love this site and miss the VP's. Does anyone know what happened to "Deke" Buchanan?..." [E-Mail Updated 26FEB2000 | E-Mail Updated 13JAN99 | 17MAR98]

BRUNK, YN Dennis E. bman@wfeca.net "...I served with VP-44 from April 1981 until my discharge August 1982 in the Admin office as a YN. I was lucky enough to make the NS Rota, Spain/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal det with some of the best people in the best command. Finding this website brought back ALOT of memories that make me smile to this day. Any of ya'll remember the Skipper's hat dissappearing during that det? I miss alot of the people I was fortunate enought to serve with and would really like to hear from anyone who was there during that time and would like to get in touch..." [04JAN2002]

BRYANT, ACRM Earl jimgggg@aol.com "...I was in VP-44, Battle of Midway and Battle of Guadlacanal. Did Air-Sea rescue from Florida Island. Was in VPD-116 (slightly modified B-24s). We did radar countermeasures tests. I have written a book (not published) "Ya Can't Get to Heaven in a PBY 'Cause PBY's Don't Fly that High". Could send a file, if you want..." [11APR99]

BRYANT, Edgar W. ocelot@adelphia.net "...Hello: All you Bilge Rats/I was a sea going Bellhop. Febuary 1955 through February 1959. I was in aviation ordinance. AOU TAD to lots of different Carriers. First Duty Station was NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island, NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, NAS Bermuda, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, San Juan P.I., NAS Norfolk, Virginia, Elisabeth City, N.C., NAS Jacksonville, Florida, Sanford, and NAS Pensacola, Florida. My last three years active were with VP-44 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I was stationed there when our brothers in the next hanger over (VP-56) went down while taking off with no survivors. I wrote just to remind myself how lucky I was. Lost some good friends..." [E-Mail Updated 20JAN2005 | 22MAY99]

BRYNTESON, AWC Val R. Retired vbryn@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 from l961 through 1964 Crew 4 Buno 131453. Our crew: PPC R. A. Stephen, PP2P R. W. Minnerly, PP3P R. Schug, TACCO Lloyd, P. C. P. D. Owens/Gary Lake, 2nd Mech Ralph Cook/McGhee, 1st Tech P. F. Gustwick, 2nd tech (me), Radio H. O. Talley. Elect. Gibson, and Ord. Dave Reeves. I would like to hear from any Shipmates. I can be found on the VP-24 Reunion roster...I served with VP-24 from 1968 through 1972 as NATOPS evaluator for radar. I would like to hear from any old Shipmates..." [BIO Updated 29MAR2000 | Squadron Changed 23MAR2000 | 22MAR2000]

BURDETTE, CWO3 Bill Retired bill@theburdettes.com "...VP-44 62-64, FAETUPAC NI 65-68, CPWPac 68-69, VP-22 69-71, FASOTRAGRUPAC MFT 71-72, VP-50 72-74, CPWPac 74-77, USS Enterprise 77-78, CPWPac 78-81. Former ATS, AX, AW, retired as CWO3..."

BURGERT, Arvine J. mattisan.1@netzero.net "...Served with VP-44, 70 - 73, ASW sensor operator CAC 9, NAS Brunswick, Maine. Many wonderful memories and experiences as aircrew. Collateraled in the OPS Dept typing flight schedule. Great deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NAS Bermuda, with many stops along the way including England, Italy, Crete, Sicily, Barbados, and even Grand Turk. I thoroughly enjoyed the P-3 and get excited every time I see one. Regards to all Shipmates..." [03FEB2007]

BURKE, Dewey motortirke@cox-internet.com "...I WAS IN VP-44 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland FROM 1963-1965. I FLEW WTIH GARY LAKE FLIGHT ENG. LT SKINNER WAS OUR PPC. ANYONE OUT THERE ON THE SAME CREW PLEASE CONTACT ME. THANKS..." [12MAR2005]

Memorial Picture "...BURKE, ADCS Donald K...My father, Donald K. Burke, passed away November 18, 2012. Dad served in the Navy for 28 years. He proudly served with VP-209, VPB-99, VPB-98, VPB-100, VPB-28, VW-4, VA-51, VA-44, VA-135, VA-15, HT-8, VP-44 and VP-8. I would love to hear from anyone that may have served with Dad..." Contributed by Donald Burke, Jr. donnieburke2@gmail.com [02JUN2017]

BUSH, Milton c/o His Son Milton Bush, Jr. MWBUSH@compuserve.com "...My dad, Milton Bush, worked with VPB-44 and VPB-53 Black Cat Squadrons in 1944-45 on Green Island, north of Bougainville, as the PATSU legal/personnel officer. Then reassigned with VPB-53 to Samar Island. He is now 90 and quite well, wintering on Jensen Beach, FL. Plays golf three times a week. I am working on a short history of Green Island in WW II. Would like to hear stories of others who were there..." [19DEC2001]


CAHILL, Kevin R. kevin1fe@aol.com "...I retired after spending all 26 years in P-3 Orions. I was lucky to have spent all my tours in great squadrons. Started my flying career as a second mech in VP-44, 71-75, then moved on to become a TAR in VP-92. Qualified as a Flight Engineer Jan 76. Orders then to VP-69 from 79-82. A follow on tour back to VP-92 from 82-87. Moved from there to VP-68 from 87-91. Didn't have enough so went back "home" to VP-92 from 91-96 when I finally retired to a great job as an Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA in Boston. As I look back did it all from pumping a grease gun on the flight line, to Maintenance Chief, all while in a flying billet. Logged almost 9000 flight hours as a P-3 FE and am proud of it. In my later years as the MMCPO I was extremely proud of the maintenance folks that gave the extra effort to get the aircraft "up". The best part was when I preflighted then flew the aircraft on a PMCF. Usually never having a gripe to write up when we were done. The VP-Navy was my Navy and am proud to have been a part of it. Thanks Shipmates!..." [07FEB98]

CALCATERRA, John johncalcaterra64@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1963 to 1966 in Airframes. We deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, NAS Bermuda, NS Rota, Spain, and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal under CDR Ball and CDR Hunter..." [27JUN2003]

CAMILLE, ATCS Irving (Hank) Retired iac@gis.net "...I served with VP-44 (NORVA) in 1954-55 as an AT2 1st Tech aboard 6 Boat (CC-6). The P5M-2 crew consisted of myself, AT3 Wing (2nd Tech), AT3 Johnson (2nd Radioman), Lt. Jeffreys (Pilot & PPC), ADR1 Houk (Plane Capt - 1st Mech), ADR2 Garret (2nd Mech). Unfortunately I can't remember the names of the rest of the crew (it's been 44 years).I entered the TAR command after leaving VP-44 and retired in 1971. Flew many flights as aircrew instructor with Reserve VP squadrons. Enjoyed my Navy career very much..." [22JAN99]

CAMPBELL, AE2 Donald c/o Revans revans357@hotmail.com "...My father-in-law served with VP-44 twice as well as several VR squarons and the like between 1944 and 1967. I have been trying to locate some memorbilia as well as locate some who may have served with him and recall him. His name is Donald Campbell. I believe his rate was AE2 he now lives in the Ahoskie, NC area. He would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [30SEP2004]

CAMPBELL, AO2 Darryl dcampbell@seacove.net "...I served with VP-44 and VP-30 as an aviation Ordanceman AO2. After attending AO school in NAS Jacksonville, Florida I was assigned to VP-44 for sea duty and then to VP-30 for shore duty. I have often wondered where some of the folks that I served with have gone and what they are doing..." [09MAR2002]

CAMPBELL, Glen batf169@msn.com "... I was assigned to ATU-213 in 1958-59. We were located at Beeville, Texas. Beeville was an auxillery airfield to NAS Kingsville, Texas and NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. At that time the training was in the F9F-Cougar. They did gunnery and practiced tail-hook landing prior to going to the flat-top. Unfortunately, I can't remember the carrier that was used as part of the pilots final training. I then went to NAS Glenview, Illinois for airman training. It was a one-class, one time, training for basic airman when NAS Norman, Oklahoma closed and NAS Memphis, Tennessee (Millington) had not yet opened for basic airman training. I attended AT training at NAS Millington, Tennessee and went to VP-44 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia (59-61). I was there when we went from P5Ms to P2Vs. My crew crashed at NAS Boca Chica, Florida during the Bay of Pigs..." [01FEB2006]

CAMPBELL, CAPTAIN James L. (Jim) campbelljl@olg.com "...I served in VT-3 (75-77); VP-44 (78-81); Commander CPW-5 (81-83); VP-26 (86-88) and was XO/CO of VP-23 (90-92). I am still on active duty and am stationed in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I work as the Program Manager for Air Traffic Control and Landing Systems in the Naval Air Systems Command. I plan on retiring in two years and going back to my beloved Tennessee. Anyone out there who remembers the "Bad Boys of Brunswick?" The best times of my career were the two years I spent with VP-23. Like John "Pony" Horsman, I would go back tomorrow and do it all over again..." [10APR2000]

CANFIELD, AE2 Doug dsof34@metrocast.net "...I was in VP-44 from 1975-1980...two trips to the NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal and one trip to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I was a AIMD tech AE2...anybody around from then?..." [E-Mail Updated 12DEC2001 | 00XXX97]

CARMICHAEL, Al cpcarm@comcast.net "...I served with VP-44 (1966-1969) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I flew with Captain Warren, LT Tyson, John, Jim, Dick and Archie. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 08JAN2012 | 25SEP99]

CARR, AO Joseph E. jecfla1@embarqmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1959 to 1963. I flew flight crew as AO on the P2V with LM-3 and LM-9 until my discharge..." [21AUG2007]

CARR, AE2 Vince carvin_38@live.com "...I served aboard NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (1957 to 1959), VP-44 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia working on the P5M from January 1959 to July 1959..." [BIO Updated 13JUL2013 | E-Mail Updated 07JUN2011 | E-Mail Updated 30DEC2008 | 09NOV98]

CAREY, Dave dcarey@goochlandco.net "...I was in VP-44 from September 1978 through January 1982. I was the "I" level TRON GOD and the best shortstop in NAS Brunswick, Maine! Charlie and Frank, I missed you guys by a couple years. Drop me line if you hit this site again. You to Harry!..." [02MAY2002]

CARROLL, AMEC Dennis P. Retired p3fe418yrs@gmail.com "...I served with VP-5 from 1967 to 1975, VQ-2 from 1975 to 1979, ASW Test Directorate from 1979 to 1982, VP-44 from 1982 to 1986 and Naval Aviation Logistics Command/Naval Aviation Maintenance Office from 1986 to 1989. I was a P-3 FE from 1968 to 1986. I wish I was still flying!..." [E-Mail Updated 30SEP2009 | 28SEP99]

CASSEL, AT2 Bill wwcassel@mediaone.net "...I served with VP-44 from 1958 thru July 1961. If any of you remember me drop me a line. I plan to be at the Reunion in 2001. If anyone knows the whereabouts of Michael Graham from Tyler, Texas please forward his address to me. See ya at the Reunion..." [05MAY2001]

CASTEEN, J. Douglas jcasteen@comcast.net "...I served with VP-49 (1961-1965) at NAS Bermuda and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland , VP-31 (1965-1968) Det Alpha at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-44 (1969-1972) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAS Brunswick, Maine, TSC (1972-1975) at NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, TSC (1978-1980) at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida (Flight Training - NFO/LDO), VS-31 (1980-1984) at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida, Warrant/LDO School (1985-1986) at NAS Pensacola, Florida, NAS North Island, San Diego, California (1986-1990) and retired in 1990. I am now living in Orange Park, Florida and would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 04MAR2013 | 24NOV98]

CASTEN, AO3 Philip A. nulla@idnsi.net "...Shipmates of Patrol Squadron 44 & CAC 10 (1986-90): Would like to hear from you. Please write me, Phil Casten, at 84 Ferdls Road, Walden, NY 12586..." [19JUL98]

CHASE, Hal HChase1035@aol.com "...In 1978 I transitioned from a non-acoustic sensor operator to an acoustic operator and was stationed with VP-44 from 1979 to 1983..."

CLARK, AE2(AW) David DaveClark01@cs.com "...I was an AE2(AW) and served with VP-44, NAS Brunswick, Maine, VP-8, and NAWC Pax River. I was also a Flight Engineer with VP-8 and NAWC. Flew with CAC-9, and CAC-7 during the Gulf War. I am looking for any old Shipmates for a possible Reunion..." [19SEP2001]

CLAUSEN, ABH1 Steven Retired hawker44@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-22 from 1981 to 1987, VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine, VQ-1 at NAS Agana, Guam and then NAS Whidbey Island, Washington..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 19JUL2010 | 19JAN2001]

CLINGAN, Thomas thomas.clingan@verizon.net "...It would be great to hear from anyone from VP-44. I new some great people and had some great times (1983-1987). NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NS Rota, Spain "Lava Lounge," "Benny's," "Car passing a car thats passing a bus." Italy? Ayuh! "Skippeeeeeerrrrr - I'll save ya little buddy."..." [23FEB2003]

COLE, Sherrill rollinthunder5@centurylink.net "...I served with VP-44 from 1953 to 1956. I was radar operator on CAC-2..." [31MAR2010]

COLVIN, ATCS William H. "Willie/Scotty" Retired whcolvin@bellsouth.net "...Radio operator/First tech P2V, SS1, SS2, SS3 P3B. I was stationed at NAS Brunswick, Maine IN VP-21 (61-64), VP-11 (65-70), CFAW3 (ASCAC) (70-71), CFWL (TSC)(71-73), VP-44 (73-76). It's really great to see the old times coming back..." [E-Mail Updated 28JUL2001 | 00XXX97]

Memorial Picture "...CONLEY, George P...Shipmate Pix Picture taken at October 2000 VP-48 Reunion Picture taken at October 2000 VP-48 Reunion and and contributed by Alan Hardie: "...It is with shock and sadness that I relay to you the message from Charlene Conley. George P. Conley passed away on Tuesday morning in his sleep..." Contributed by AX2 Lee (Andy) Anderson vp48sugarfox1@gmail.com [27OCT2000]

CONLEY, George P. gconley@us.hsanet.net "...I served with VP-44 from 1959 to 1962 and transitioned from P5M's to P2V's to P-3s and VP-48 from 1966 to 1968 and transitioned from P5M's to P-3's..." [23OCT2000]

CONWAY, AW1 Steve MADSS3@YAHOO.COM [E-Mail Updated 20FEB99 | 10FEB98]

COOK, Ralph L. bluesgtar@redrose.net "...I served in VP-44 from January 1960 to October 1963. I was thrilled to find this site and immediately bent my brain trying to remember names and adventures to tickle the memories of others. I served my whole tour of duty in VP-44 beginning in January of 1960 and extending to October of 1963. I was on the P5M beach crew in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and I remember how cold Willoughby(sp) Bay became on some of those nights in January and February. I advanced to the metal shop under two chiefs one nicknamed "Pappy" the senior chief's name escapes me. There was an Dakota Indian named Ted Lague, a really nice guy. There were the Cota brothers, Richard and ? Richard Morgan of Thornwood, NY, and a host of others in that shop. We went to the Rappahanock River with the squadron where we joined with the USS Albemarle, a Seaplane Tender. I fell asleep on the wing of a P5M and got second degree burns..Ouch! I remember Billy Delaney from Brooklyn NY and Carl "Robbie" Robertson from Pennsauken NJ. There was Robbies buddy Joe Carr, an AO3, he was a crazy man if there ever was one. I liked him just for the fun he was. The transition to P2V's was not easy. We lost LM-5 in key west, it burned to the ground. We lost LM 4 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia when Lt Vincent forgot to put the gear down after a dozen 'touch and go' approaches. Lt Vincent was well liked by all and we hated to see that happen to him. We went to NAS Sigonella, Sicily with our P2V-5F's and I managed to get on the crew of LM-4 BU NO. 131453 with LCDR Stephan and ?? There was a radioman named Hugh Oliver Talley whose name and initials on his shirt spelled Talley HO! We had an ordnanceman on that crew who was Huge, a black man who was from Philly. I wish I could remember more names. In NAS Norfolk, Virginia there was Jerry Fann and "Big Charley from NC, There was a man named Reggie Fear and a Plane Captain named Paul Owens and one named Walters. The hot comedy album in the Barracks was Dave somebody with a lot of southern humor. In NAS Sigonella, Sicily we did a "Med Fam" cruise to Venice, Rome (saw pope paul?) Pisa and Naples. Then on to Morocco to use our SARA gear to track John Glenn in Mercury 7, Just in case. That was quite a high point. We also stopped in Marseilles France and Rota Spain where I swear I saw a U-2 spy plane sitting out on the Tarmac. In NAS Patuxent River, Maryland I met a girl over at St. Mary's JC and we flew high over Maryland for a while. I played Guitar with a small group off the base in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. The tenor sax player is still a friend today. He was a radioman his name is Douglas W. Lloyd. He is famous for backing into a P-3 with a stakeside truck, I think it was LM-1. Doug is now a successful engineer with Motorola in Phoenix. I have an injection molding business in Lancaster County PA, "Dutch Country". If anyone from that era would like to get together, I am game. If you are visiting Pennsylvania Dutch country, I am your host..." [25DEC99]

COTA, Norman L. H2O@aol.Com "...Joined Naval Air in August 1957 and served in the following squadrons. VAH-15, VP-44 both at NAS Norfolk, Virginia, VS-25 out of NAS Los Alamitos, California, later NAS North Island, San Diego, California. Went to WestPac as a part of Carrier Air Group 55 (CAG55)in late 1962-1963. Was Plane Captain for NU-30 aboard the USS Yorktown (CVS-10)..." [04MAY2000]

COTIER, Matthew exit135@excite.com "...I served in VP-44 from 88-decom then in VP-26 till 92 from there I went to VX-1 till 95 and then back to NAS Brunswick, Maine where I am currently stationed with VP-10..." [27MAR99]

COULTAS, ADC Steven R. Retired stedeb@frontier.com "...I served with RTC, VT-21, VA-65, VP-30, VP-44, VX-1, VP-26 (SP), VPU-1, CPWL and retired..." [E-Mail Updated 06JUN2011 | 16MAR98]

CRAIN, Dan danc1@ctel.net "...I recognized many names of days gone by. I was in VP-23 from December 1968 to March 1971 and I bailed out. I re-enlisted in 1971 and spent a year and a half on shore duty in Key West, Fla before I could get back to NAS Brunswick, Maine again with VP-23 from August 1975 to January 1981. I then went to Commander Patrol Wing 5 to establish the Maintenance Training Team as the AT. Then in January 1984 it was to VP-44 til January 1987. Retired October 1989..." [21NOV99]

Memorial Picture "...CRAWFORD, Douglas...With regret I am informing of the passing of Doug Crawford in December 2008. Doug served with VP-10, VP-31, VP-40 and VP-44. Obit can be found at Brackett Funeral Home or the Times Record in Brunswick, Maine. CHILDERS, AT1 Dave Retired p3abcift@aol.com..." [09JAN2009]

CRAWFORD, Douglas dougc@javanet.com"...I was with VP-31 twice..3/69 - 5/71 and 11/74 - 2/78, VP-40 5/71 - 11/74, VP-10 2/78 - 1/83. Left VP for six and a half years for a VT and HC in Sig. Returned to VP with a tour in VP-44 8/89 - 5/91 when we disestablished. I joined VP-10 in 7/94 and will be with the squadron until I retire in 4/98 as a W4 (former AT, radio operator/ift P-3B's now a Maint type)..."

CURRIER, AW2 Rob rcurrier@alpinecomputers.net "...VP-44 AW2 SS3 1983-1986 NAS Brunswick, Maine. Deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain - NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal Split. Wondering if anyone is planning a get together of some sort. Would like to hear from fellow AW's to see how everyone is doing these days. Would really like to hear from Carl Ross, Jim Rose, Burt Kelso, Dave Walker, Kurt Lantis, Brian Huot and even Mick Davis. I hope you guys are all doing well..." [22MAR2005]


DANEHE, ADJ2 Dan ddanehe@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (05/1969-01/1973) at NAS Brunswick, Maine with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain, NAS Bermuda, NAS Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, NAF Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I worked in the Mech Shop. I was on duty June 3rd, 1972 (40 years today) when we lost BUNO: 152182 (northern Morocco - killing all 14 men aboard). I will never forget this day. I think of and pray for crew of 152182,,," [E-Mail/BIO Updated 04JUN2012 | 05OCT97]

DANIELS, AOCM(AW/NAC) Jerry F. jdandmac@aol.com "...VP-44 Crew ONE from Jan 84 to Mar 87. Enlisted active duty Jan 80. Upon AO School graduation, assigned to VF-101 from 81-83. After completion of Aircrew and VP-30 did my first tour in P-3's. VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine 1984-87. Then on to VP-30 as an Instructor/NATOPS Evaluator form 88-91. From the Pro's Nest, I went to USS Theodore Roosevelt, CVN 71 from 1991-94. Bomb Assemly and Fligt Deck Ordnance Chief proved to be some of the greatest years in my career. In 1994, I went to Washington DC. Pers-51 and started what became a very successful career in Navy Manpower. After only one year in DC, I went to Millington TN (1995-98) when our Code merged with NAVMAC out of Chesapeake. Left NAVMAC in 98, hit the Senior Enlisted Academy in route to VFA-86 "Sidewinders" in Cecil Field. After a year there as the CMC, I went to the USS George Washington, CVN 73 as Weapons Department LCPO. in 1999 I picked up CMC and heading to USS Mitscher, DDG 57 in April, 2000. My VP days were limited, but are cheerished just the same. I'd love to hear from any old Shipmates, especially CAC ONE Bubba's. God bless..." [15JAN2000]

DAVENPORT, Robert Davenport@post.Harvard.edu "...NFO in VP-44 from 1973-1977, CAC 8, went to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Bermuda, and the Azores. JD St. John Law School 1979, MBA Harvard Business School 1984. Now a screenwriter in Hollywood, and book writer..." [06OCT98]

DAVIDSON, PN3 Lawrence U. "Dave" ld3atty@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1975 through 1977. We deployed to NAS Bermuda and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (DET) when Meritorious Service awarded. Left NAS Bermuda in a hurry, (college starting), July 1977, without saying goodbye and I believe I was entitled to great farewell party. Looking for Shipmates, especially those who know whereabouts of other Shipmates. I want my farewell party..." [23AUG2006]

DAVIS, ADJ3 Robert T. heavybd2@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (1973-1974) at NAS Brunswick, Maine on the T-56-10 and 12..." [25JAN2012]

DeFIO, Roy roy@nqi.net "...I served in VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine from 78-81. I was a Photographers Mate and Im looking to contact anyone during that period. It was a great 3 years..." [31MAY99]

DEMPSEY, ADC Leroy L. Retired lldempsey@live.com "...I served with VP-44 (1968 to 1970), NATOPS F/E at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and VP-26 (1975 to 1978) F/E Line Division CPO NAS Brunswick, Maine. I'd like to hear from any of my old Shipmates and talk over old times..." [E-Mail Updated 19SEP2008 | E-Mail Updated 08JUN2007 | E-Mail Updated 24JUN2002 | 05NOV98]

DENNIS, Lester J. dennislj@swbell.net "...I served with VP-44 from February 1961 through February 1964 as a Navigator and TACCO on P-3A aircraft. We deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily in 1961 with P2V aircraft with CDR Pierce as CO. We subsequently moved to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland where we received our new P-3A aircraft with CDR J. Ball & A. Serrell as skippers. I still remember the many wonderful people of this squadron. Its been 40 years now and I have often wondered what has happened to them since then. Would love to hear from anyone from VP-44 who was a member during this period. Thanks to Marty Duling and Ray Estes for starting the reunion process..." [13JAN2000]

DeWITT, Bill BDe4750977@aol.com "...I am looking for any one who served with VP-44 from April 1971 to September 1972 at NAS Brunswick, Maine..." [09JUN2000]

DIXON, AE1 Jim jimmydixon47@gmail.com "...I served with VP-26 (1972-07/1975), VP-30 (08/1975-08/1979), VP-44 and AIMD NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 16MAR2019 | E-Mail Updated 21MAR2000 | 31JUL98]

DOHERTY, Bill wjdoherty@clinic.net "...VP-44 PowerPlants 4/71 to 10/74. Powerplants CPO 6/72 to 10/74. Retired 6/79. a href="vw1.html">VW-1 2/56-12/57 DET ALPHA NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. Made the move to beautiful GUAM (ugh) sat out a heck of a Typhoon that hit Agana in 57. Nice place to visit but the Dets were better. I worked in Powerplants under "Mumbles" Hartly, charter member of Fiddlers Green. How about Lcdr T.P. Cassidy??? and his Dress blues inspection on the ramp?? Those were the days..." [27JAN99]

DONAHUE, AT3 James jimkatdonahue@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-44 (1958-1961) as 1st Tech LM-6 on LM-11..." [04DEC2010]

DONNAN, Stu sdonnan@surfsouth.com "...VP-44, NAS Norfolk, Virginia AT2 1956-1960 2, 6, and 1 Pelican CAC..." [23AMR98]

Memorial Picture "...DORSETT, CDR Ralph Anthony Sr... CDR Ralph Anthony Dorsett, Sr., USNR (RET), 67, died on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006 at Serenity Gate after a 15 month illness with cancer. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday at the Perry First Baptist Church with Dr. Gene Bowman and Rev. Bob Price offciating. Rev. Rick Parker will officiate at Evergreen Cemetery and the Navy will provide Full Military Honors. The family will receive friends at the residence, 1100 Ridge Circle South, Perry. Mr. Dorsett was born on November 19, 1939 in Byron, Georgia, the son of the late Marvin and Maggie Ruth Dorsett. He was preceded in death by his son, Ralph Anthony (Rad) Dorsett, Jr., and his brother, Kemp Dorsett. A member of the Perry Frist Baptist Church, he was in the Buice Sunday School Class. CDR Dorsett served as an anti submarine warfare plane commander with VP-44 while on active duty in the United States Navy. He continued to serve his country for 17 additional years in the Navy Reserves with VP-62, NAS Jacksonville, Florida, retiring in 1995. He began farming with his father in 1976, land that has been in his family since 1856. He served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the E. H. Cheek Scholarship Fund, on the Board of Directors of Houston County Farm Bureau, Board of Directors of the Perry-Houston County Airport Authority, Board of Trust for the Westfield Schools, member of the Houston County Young Farmers and Agribusinessmen's Assocation and member of the Order of the Daedalians. Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Joan Roper Dorsett; sister, Sally D. Bazemore (Ken) of Byron; brother, Jimmy Dorsett (Brenda) of Norcross; sister-in-law, Nancy Dorsett Wadsworth (Ray) of Arley, Alabama; nine nieces and nephews. The family suggests donations to the E.H. Cheek Scholarship Fund, c/o Dr. Argene Claxton, Perry High School, 1307 North Ave., Perry, Georgia 31069 or Heart of Georgia Hospice, 103 Westridge Drive, Warner Robins, Georgia 31088 - Houston Daily Journal 12/04/06..." WebSite: Houston Daily Journal http://news.mywebpal.com/partners/963/public/news767085.html [06DEC2006]

DOTSON, AE Doyce Dwight dwightdotson@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 (08/1961-09/1964). I flew as an Aircrewman and Aircraft Electrican..." [13JUN2012]

DUFFY, Patrick duffy_1006@msn.com "...I served as a sensor operator with VP-44 from November 1972 until my discharge in August 1974. CAC-6 and CAC-1, at NAS Brunswick, Maine (deployed to NAS Bermuda), skippered by P. D. Smith. Would love to hear from any of the old aircrew..." [E-Mail Updated 27JAN2022 | E-Mail Updated 07NOV2006 | 27JUL99]

DULING, LCDR Martin L. Retired mduling@home.com "...I served with VP-44 from 3\60 to 3\63. So in a 3 year tour we had the P5M, then the P2V-7, then after the NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment, the move to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and the P-3A. I was the Avionics Officer and have many fond memories of those days. I retired in July 1973..." [E-Mail Updated 28AUG2000 | E-Mail Updated 28MAY99 | 07FEB99]

DUMONT, CPO Dewey wd75@prodigy.net "...I served in VP-40 from 1948-1950 and with VP-44 from 60-63. Would like to hear from old Shipmates...Val Brynteson notified me recently that I was a honary member of VP-44 LM 4..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 25JUL2000 | 12JAN99]

DOWNER, J.W. (Doc) Freedown@aol.com "...Served in VPB-116 during 1944. Plane Captain on original crew 4. Operated from Eniwtok and Tinian. Previous duty in VP-21 from 10/41-4/42 and in VP-44 from 4/42-7/43..." [12MAY99]

DUNLAP, John jdunlap@amdiss1.dm.af.mil "...My best tour in the Navy was in VP-11 Oct 79 thru Dec 85. This was a once in a Navy carreer experience. Just a group of over-achiever's willing to make the squadron and the Navy look good. VP-30 FRAMP, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-44 Feb 73-Dec 76, AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine Power Plants Dec 76-Oct 79. Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) Dec 85-May 89, VP-26 May 89-Feb 93, NADEP NAS Jacksonville, Florida Feb 93-Sep 96. Every one of these tours was great fun and hard work. My first flight as ai 2nd mech under training was with VP-11 in Buno: 153415, Sep 1980. My last flight in May 1996 was a delivery of an aircraft purchased by the Greek Navy. I took it from storage at Tucson to Waco, TX for overhaul. The BUNO was 153415. Here's to great friends and as many landings as takeoffs. Look forward to hearing from you..." [10FEB98]

DUXBURY, CAPTAIN Richard B. c/o His Son CAPT Bill Duxbury dux@sprynet.com "...Served with VP-56, VP-44, VP-68, and VP-93, flying P5M, P2V, and P-3..." [15MAY2000]


Memorial Picture "...EDMONDS, AMS1 L. A...My Grandfather, AMS1 L. A. EDMONDS, passed away last Easter and he never talked much about his military carear. He was a FE and served with VP-24, VP-26, VP-30 and VP-44 from 1955 to 1975. I am looking for challenge coins from that time im trying to put together a memorial of his military service and just find out a lilte but more about my Grandfather. Ashlee fear_personfied@bellsouth.net..." [02APR2009]

ESQ, Michelle Davis myparadise1@msn.com "...I was one of the last AX's (revised to AT and AO respectively) VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine. I closed down the SQ in decom..." [02FEB2007]

ESTERLINE, Ron jantro@reliable-net.net "...I remember well the name, and most of the faces of my service era Shipmates: Cota, Mauro, McKearney, Overman, Sepuch, St. John, and Wojton who have posted here. When I refused the Navy's kind offer of Flight Training at NAS Pensacola, Florida in exchange for an extra 18 months active commitment, they assigned my reserve SA butt to VP-44 as AI/Nav Yeoman (Navy for sweeping out the Navigation Office once a week). So from July 1957 to July 1959 I had to pick up after 5 officers (Malm, Renter, etc.) and guard $25 million worth of seaplanes with a billy club 48 hours a week. My main partner in crime was Jack Flannelly, a sometimes AE3 - our finest hour was hoisting the Finnish national ensign (liberated from the NOB enlisted theater during a Tom and Jerry cartoon) to the top of the flagpole at NAS Norfolk, Virginia - we heard it was about noon before the Jarheads determined NAS Norfolk, Virginia was not being visited/overrun by the Finns, and finally hoisted the US colors. While standing post watch one night, I was inspired to write "The Ballad of Champ Thompson" - VP-44's CO at the time - a ditty about the P5M and its crew - "...they rolled her down to the edge of the ramp, the Beachmaster he said "Champ! Rev your engines and let her fly, go bore some holes in that big blue sky..." Maybe I'll post it all here sometime. By now its Bastille Day 1959, and my active duty was up - Ha! Called me back in September to testify at the court martial of a PO1 who had made unwanted advances to a sleeping knife weilding parachute rigger. As I recall, Jack Overman was OOD the night it all went down, and its a story he may want to tell. Hope all these guys I can remember are doing well: Gene Tometsko, Karl Mart, Perry Hinch, Dale Innes, Joe Chuifo, Reggie Fear, Chief Dries, Burl Burch, and Bob Graves - PJ O'Leary's probably still a jerk..." [14DEC2003]

EATON, David Retired dtn3558@cs.com "...I served in VP-4 from 75-81, VP-30 81-84, VP-45 84-85, a year off to rest up for part two 85-86, VP-44 86-90 (survived NAS Keflavik, Iceland), VP-8 90-92 then SERE 92-95 when I retired from active duty. Man I miss those crazy fun days and all the friends that are still out there somewhere. I would like to hear from you all..." [11JAN2001]

EBRON, CWO5 William R. Retired wmebron@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (1977) at NAS Brunswick, Maine, VP-30, VP-47, VP-31, VP-1, VP-16 (2002-2004) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida and retired in 2008. I now live in Jacksonville, Florida and would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 06APR2012 | 08OCT99]

ECKARDT, LT Lothar E. P3LEX@AOL.COM "...Joined VP-10 APRIL 95. Proud to be a LANCER Currently PPC of CAC-5 (THE FUN LOVIN CRIMINALS) BT is our thing. I was a prior AW in VP-11 84-87 and VP-44 88-90. I would love to hear from old Shipmates..." [02MAY98]

ELLIOTT, CAPTAIN Dave davide1955@aol.com "...I served in VP-44 from '79 to '82. Just missed the NAS Keflavik, Iceland deployment when I arrived in the squadron. Went on to fly with CAC6 (PPC Mike Caruso) on a WESTPAC deployment and finished as the PPC for CAC8 (JO crew) on a NS Rota, Spain/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal/ASCENSIONS deployement. Followed Sean O'Neil to D.C. for a tour as Head of National Aviation Recruiting program for NAVCRUITCOM from '82-'85, then left active duty for a job with Texas Instruments in Dallas, TX (13 years). We were recently acquired by Raytheon. Maintained affiliation with the Navy through the Naval Air Systems Command Reserve Program. Currently on a CO tour with Naval Air Warfare Center in Orlando, Florida and having a ball! I would like to hear from any of the VP-44 members during the '79-'82 era, especially those I flew with. CAC6 - I will never forget the multiple approaches we shot at NAS Brunswick, Maine in the blizzard on our return from our 7 month WESTPAC deployment. NAS Brunswick, Maine was in the midst of a blinding blizzard and the wives were in the hangar. I was the 3P/2P. I flew the precision approaches while LT Jim Hanley prepared to take the transition to landing if we spotted the runway. We finally made it on the ground and taxied into the hangar. We were safe and the wives were happy! CAC8 - We never told anyone how we had to decide between a "ditch" or our "quasi" precision approach thanks to great crew coordination on our Ascension Island Det. Running low on gas, having shot multiple approaches on an ADF beacon (DH=600AGL) with no succeess, and having discussed a ditch with the TACCO, we elected to use our SS3 radar operator, TACCO, and flight crew to find a "fogged in" runway. I think of that often and I'm sure the rest of the crew does as well. It was a story never told, but worthy of an air medal for the entire crew - saving a plane and the crew! I have one more story to share. One night in NS Rota, Spain, I received a call at the BOQ - I was just recovering from a week of "walking pneumonia". I guess I was the only pilot left in town. The duty office needed a crew to fly to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and help a VP-44 VIP flight that was to pick up a VIP in NAS Sigonella, Sicily and return to ROTA. The VIP flight had developed a "delaminated or cracked" windshield. We pulled the crew together in launched for NAS Sigonella, Sicily, cleaning the aircraft along the way to serve as the VIP flight. Upon our arrival our FE went over to begin pre-flighting their a/c, which we were to ferry back to NS Rota, Spain (below 10K and slower speeds due to the crack). Our FE climbed up to look at their delaminated windshield and thought he might "clean" the windshield with Windex since he was already on the ladder. The "bubbles" mysteriously disappeared! They turned out to be water spots and not delamination bubbles! The worst part was that the VIP crew took our airplane anyhow since we had cleaned it all night on our flight over to NAS Sigonella, Sicily. We were stuck with the "dirty windshield" aircraft which we flew back to NS Rota, Spain. JOTL (Jr Officer Terroist League) presented a bottle of Windex to the PPC of that airplane when he left the squadron. What fun!! CAC6 and CAC8 let me hear from you!!..." [27MAY99]

EMMANUELLI, REV. Fr. Ivan W. IWEC@AOL.COM "...I was assigned to VP-26 from 1974-77 and VP-44 from 1981-84. I am interested in contacting some of my old Shipmates. After serving two different tours at NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, I went on to VFA-131 at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida and retired at NAS Norfolk, Virginia HC-6. To my enjoyment I have seen some old Shipmates while brousing through your site. Hopefully I will have an opportunity to contact others as well, people who's life touched mine in such a way that I have many fond memories of them. If you recognize my name - drop me a line..." [12AUG99]

ESCOBAR, Robert "Esky" Jr. fra45@earthlink.net "...I was in VP-50 from about February 1957 (ATAN) through August 1963 (AT1). Went to FAETUPAC for instructor duty where I taught maintenance on the ASA-16 Integrated Display System. Advanced to E-7; AXC. Orders to NATTC, Millington (dreamsheet requested "any spanish speaking country") for AT-B School then on to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and VP-44. Picked up E-8 and transferred across the ramp to VP-49 where we made the first deployment in the P-3C's to "beautiful downtown NAS Keflavik, Iceland". Generated many "UR's" against the tech manuals. Made two deployments then received orders to NAVPRO, Burbank where I got to process all those "UR's" I'd generated while in the Fleet! Who says there's no justice? Retired from the Nav in August 1975..." [28JUN2000]

ESTES, LCDR Albert R. (Ray) Retired Rayestes@aol.com "...I attended ARM "A" school/AROS 44. VB-2 OTU1 Beaufort SC. PV's later to NAGS Miami to Operational TBF training at NAS Fort Lauderdale. Finished on VJ Day. Later VC-11, VP-46, FASRON 3, VW-13, ALUSNA Tehran to OCS. DD703 then NAO training to VP-44 to VP-31 DET NAS Moffett Field, California to CFAWLANT to retire 1970. Awarded CAC Wings, Aircrew Wings, NAO wings and NFO wings. Wore them all once and it looked way to much. Didn't do it again. I wore CAC wings with NFO wings frequently. Was unaware of AROS insignia but wore 'Goldfish Club' insignia on right sleeve on blue jumper. That may not have been proper. Awarded for escaping death by use of liferaft after ditching off Port Everglades, FL in a TBF in the great (?)Bermuda Triangle. Lots of ASW during career including Task Force ALFA while on DD703..." [17APR98]

EVANS, ATC Roderick Retired rodevans44@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-49 (1966-1969) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland with deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska, NAS Bermuda, NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, NS Sangley Point, Philippines and U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand, NAS Brunswick (1970-1975), VP-44 (1975-1978) with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, NAS Bermuda and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, COMmander Fleet AIR (COMFAIR) NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1981-1984) and retired in 1987. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 24FEB2016 | 00XX97]


FANT, RMC Jack L. jfant612@cs.com "...From February 1970 to February 1974 I was the EastLantMed Air-to-Ground Communications expert and served with PATRON NS Rota, Spain through NavCommSta Spain. During 1972 I flew with VP-45 and VP-44 while I designed and made operational the secure teletype communications system for P3 A and B models in the EastLantMed area. Though I flew close to 2000 hours in P-3s my flight time was never logged which was a big disappointment to me as I thought I made a significant contribution to the ASW effort. I am still proud of my time with the various VP squadrons and still get a thrill out of seeing a P-3..." [28JAN2001]

FEDERICE, JOHN JFEDERICE2@AOL.COM "...I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO FIND ALOT OF MY OLD Shipmates THROUGH IT. I SERVED IN VP-24 FROM 7/75-7/77, NARF NAS Jacksonville, Florida, NOW KNOWN AS NADEP 7/77-7/80, VP-10 NAS Brunswick, Maine 10/80-10/83, VP-30 11/83-3/87, VP-44 4/87 UNTIL IT WAS DISSATABLISHED MAY 91. I WAS SEPARATED FROM THE VP COMMUNITY MY NEXT TWO TOURS. I SERVED AT CINCLTFLTAND NAPLES ITALY. MY FINAL TOUR WAS WITH COMPAT WING 11 HERE IN NAS Jacksonville, Florida. RETIRED 2-1-99 WITH 30 YEARS. I FLEW AS A FLIGHT ENGINEER FROM 7/77-12/90 WHEN THEY TOLD ME YOUR A MASTER CHIEF AND WE DON'T NEED YOU IN THE AIR ANYMORE. SURE DO MISS THOSE FLYING DAYS. I SERVED WITH THE BEST. SURE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ALL YOU Shipmates I WAS STATIONED WITH ESPECIALLY FROM FORMER GOLDEN PELICANS. ALL WILL BE ANSWERED. BEST OF LUCK FOR ALL WHO HAVE NOT COMPLETED THERE CAREERS AND TO THOSE THAT HAVE..." [19APR99]

FEELEY, Steve Feeley@SandiaResearch.com "...VP-44 Oct 76 - Jan 80, VX-1 Jan 80 - Feb 83, VP-11 Sep 87 - May 89, NAF Lajes Jun 89 - Jun 91, Team Leader, U.S. Navy Hot Air Balloon Team Aug 94 - Oct 95, retired in November 1995. Currently working on the Global Hilton World Balloon Flight Project as assistant program manager..." [E-Mail Updated 12APR2001 | 27NOV97]

FELLOWS, Donald R. (Don) DFelOWS@aol.com "...I served in VP-11 from 66/70 straight from ATNA school. Converted to AW during the years there and became one of those guys who rapidly advanced to first because of the war in the west. I served in VP-44 and then in recruiting for 10 years before retiring in 1987. I still live in Maine (what a surprise) and am manager of HQ in South Portland. Love to get mail from the old crews. Those days of "lovin eleven" were good ones..." [02MAR99]

FENLON, AD2 William J. fmaxbear@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (1983-1987) in Power Plants than went AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine (1987-1990). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [19SEP2011]

Memorial Picture "...FIELDER, AMH2 Norman C. Sr...I am looking for anyone that may know my Father, Norman C. Fielder Sr., who served in the Navy from 1966 to 1976. Dad served with VP-44 and his rank was AMH2. He recently past away 08/22/08 in Lynchburg, Virginia and he was laid to rest in Quantico National Cemetary. Thank you. Norman C. Fielder Jr. l65fielder@bellsouth.net..." [05SEP2008]

FIELDER, Benjamin psalm10720@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1980-1984) with a deployment to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, VP-31 (1984-1987) and USS America (CV-66) (1988-1989). I joined VP-44 in time for the NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan deployment. Due to diplomatic clearance not received I spent entire deployment in the COMM Office with YN3 Leach (learned how to type without looking at the keyboard.) Had a great time working and enjoying Kadena nightlife. Desired to take instructor duty orders to VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California. My son, Benjamin, was born Oakland Naval Hospital. Wanted more challenges so took ASW MODule Aircrewman (ASWMOD) orders to USS America CV-66. Got to be LPO until personal situation caused hardship discharge due to single parenthood and left active duty. Moved back to Maine and worked for State of Maine Government then started my own computer business. When economy tanked decided to give OTR truck driving a try and got to pass through or stop in every state in the lower 48. Currently live in Florida ..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 19OCT2015 | 19FEB2004]

FILYAW, Alan afilyaw@wingnet.net "I was an AX3 working in the 'tron' shop, and flying on Crew 4 briefly, then on Crew 7, from June 67 till April 69 at Patuxent River, MD."

FISHER, Ron bayfish@dmv.com "...I served in VP-30 Detachment Alpha and VP-44 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. 1962 - 1965..." [27APR99]

FITE, CDR Richard T. http://www.navy.mil/homepages/vp-45/xofite.htm "...Commander Richard T. Fite was born in Washington D.C. the son of a career Air Force pilot. He graduated from Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio with a Bachelor of Administration degree in Political Science. Commander Fite received his commission in December 1985 through the Aviation Officer Candidate Program and was designated a Naval Flight Officer in April 1987. In October 1987, he reported to the "Golden Pelicans" of VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. Flying the P-3C Update II Orions, he deployed to NS Rota, Spain and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. During this tour he was designated as an Instructor Tacco and Mission Commander and served as Command Security Manager, Readiness Officer, NFO Training and Assistant Operations Officer. Commander Fite then reported to Navy Recruiting District, Columbus, Ohio in February 1991. He served as the Officer Programs Officer and was the 1992 "Officer Recruiter of the Year." In March 1993, Commander Fite was assigned as Aide and Flag Lieutenant to Commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group Two. He qualified as Flag Tactical Action Officer and completed a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf in support of operations DENY FLIGHT, SHARP GUARD, VIGILANT WARRIOR and SOUTHERN WATCH. Following his disassociated sea tour, Commander Fite reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Washington D.C. in the Aviation Assignment Division as the VP Shore and Sea Detailer in March 1995. In July 1997, Commander Fite reported to the "Golden Swordsmen" of VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. During this tour he served as Tactics Officer, Administrative Officer, and Operations Officer and completed a quad site deployment to NSF Diego Garcia. Commander Fite then reported to Commander, Patrol Wings Pacific as Assistant Chief of Staff for Manpower in February, 1999. Additionally, he took on the role as Assistant Chief of Staff for Naval Activities upon the congressionally mandated closure of NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and the staff's homeport shift to MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. In November 2000, Commander Fite was temporarily assigned in the Aviation Budget and Requirements Office on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations during the Quadrennial Defense Review assessment. In August 2001, he reported to the National War College at Ft McNair, Washington D.C. Upon graduation, he received a Masters of Science Degree in National Security Strategy. In April 2003, he reported to VP-45 as the Executive Officer. Commander Fite's personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, four Navy Commendation Medals, two Navy Achievement Medals and various campaign and unit awards..." [15JUN2003]

FOWLER, AM2 DAVID beveann@earthlink.net "...Served with VP-44 JAN. 56 TO JUNE 59, VX-4 JUNE 59 TO JUNE 62, VC-8 JUNE 62 TO JUNE 66 then off to VF-101 THEN TO TOP GUN VF-142..." [23DEC97]

FRANKEN, LCDR James E. "Jim" Retired navyjim@hotmail.com "...Hello to all Shipmates from VP-44. I served as an AW2 from 1973 to 1977. I went on to serve a total of 33 years of active and reserve time including with VP-30, VP-1, VP-4, VP-65, VP-92, USS Blue Ridge and 36 months at the Pentagon. Would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 29APR2009 | 19MAY2002]

FRANKS, Charlie crfranks35@gmail.com "...I served with VP-30 (1959-1960) for Aircrew training with the first P-3 delivered to the Navy, "A" School (1961) at NAS Memphis, Tennessee, VP-44 (1962-1964) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, "B" School (1965) at NAS Memphis, Tennessee, VX-1 (1966-1970) at NAS Key West, Florida and VP-50 (1971) at NAS Moffett Field, California..." [28MAY2016]

FROST, Steve sfrost47@attbi.com "...VP-44 from 1981-1985, NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1985-1989, USNR FASO, VP-MAU, NAS Norfolk, Virginia, and 9th NCR Dallas, NMCB 22 Dallas. Would like to hear from most of you!..." [E-Mail Updated 28DEC2001 | 08MAY2000]

FRY, Michael H. Retired frymh@olg.com "...I served in VP-24 from 03JUN67 to 27JUL76, from ATRAN to AT1 and from Radioman on Bravos to Inflight Technician on P-3Cs. I went to AVIB and came back to NAS Jacksonville, Florida to serve with VP-30 where I made Chief in 1978. In June 1979, I reported to ASWOC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. We lived through the earthquake in 1980 and I transferred to CPWL Topsham, ME in June 1982 as ASWOC Maintenance Coordinator. I went on the serve with VP-44 from July 1985 to October 1989 as a Inflight Technician and after I made Senior in 1986 as a Division Chief and finally the Operations Chief until transfer. I checked into VX-1 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and served until retirement August 1993. Strange thing is I started and finished my Navy career in the same Hangar, 306, and the same "Tron Shop." In fact, I still work directly across the street from it..." [07MAR2002]


GARRETT, Joe joegarrett@comcast.net "...I served with VP-44 (SS1 CAC-4) from 1979 to 1982, VS-24 and retired in 1994. I am currently employed as a Instructional Designer for The Ancon Group in Lanham, MD..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 13JUL2007 | E-Mail Updated 14SEP2000]

Memorial Picture "...GENG, ADC Warren E. "Bud"...ADC Warren E. "Bud" GENG passed away Saturday, March 26, 2016. He had been battling cancer for about 18 months. The news was passed to me by his wife, Paula. He had served a a P-3 FE with VP-44, Anti-Submarine Warfare Test Directorate (ASWTD) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and a VP squadron at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii He was 73 years old, and would have been 74 on 30 August 2016. He will be missed..." Contributed by CARROLL, AMEC Dennis P. Retired p3fe418yrs@gmail.com [28MAR2016]

GHEZZI, AVCM Ernie Retired mwrgym@aol.com "...I served with VP-23 1974-1977, VP-44 1980-1983, and CPW-5 1984-1987..." [28MAY99]

GIBBS, Mike Retired mgibbsretired@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-23 from 1966-1968, AVI B School from 1968-1969, VP-21 from 1969 to Diestablishment, NAS Norfolk, Virginia AIMD from 1969-1971, VP-30 A/B Flt Tech school 1971, VP-44 from 1971-1977, NRL FSD from 1977-1979, VP-10 from 1979-84, VP-31 and CPWP from 1984-1987. Worked at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as contractor for a couple of years, then drove a truck until May 2002 when knees quite on me. Graduated from the University of South Carolina in December 2005 with a BS in Accounting, and from Gardner-Webb Graduate School of Business in August 2007 with a Masters of Accountancy. Serving at Spartanburg Community College and Spartanburg Methodist College as an Adjunct Professor of Accounting. Drop me a line when you get the chance..." [BIO Updated 10NOV2007 | 13MAY2003]

GIBSON, Don Dong810964@aol.com "...Joined the Navy in 1956 and after "A" school was assigned to NAF Annapolis, Maryland and had my first Navy flight in an N3N. This was a Biplane with 2 open cockpits mounted on floats. After this tour I went to VP-44 and fleww on P5M's. Then to VP-9 and crewman on P2V-7's. Next I taught power plants on th C121 "Super Connies" at VR-8. I then spent 2 years at NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, then a short time in VS-39 flying the Radar seat in S2'S. After VS-39 I spent six years at NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee. If you went thru NATTC in 1970/71 I was the Chief that did the 3 hour Base Introduction at he Base Theater. I retired in 75..." [17FEB99]

GILBERT, AD2 Dan dano.djg1@verizon.net "...I served in VP-44 from 82-86. Went to FE school and came back to the squadron on deployment in NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Flew with CAC 3, "we"ll put it where you want it" a great crew and great memories. Unfortunatly got hurt on a det to Scotland, transfered to VP-11 and never flew again as I was medically retired in 88. I have seen some names from the past and would like to hear from any of my old Shipmates..." [18SEP2010]

GILL, Christopher E. Retired chrisegill@mail.com "...I was stationed in VP-44 (1973 to 1976) and worked about a year in the TRON shop. I moved onto AIMD for the next 2 years. I do believe it was the best squadron I was ever served with. From there I went to VX-1 (1977 to 1980), left active duty for a year while serving with VP-68 as a TAR. Rejoined the Navy and was assigned to VP-6 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii (1981 to 1984), NATTC NAS Millington, Tennessee as an instructor (1984 to 1987), VQ-3 (1988 to 1990), VQ-4 (1990 to 1993) and then retired. I would like to say hi to all..." [E-Mail Updated 17APR2007 | 19FEB99]

GILLETTE, PH2 Glenn YANKS7JETS12@AOL.COM "...I was a PH2 VP-44 May 75 thru Nov 77. Loved those BDA deployments...still got the tan. VPNavy was 1st class all the way. Got out in 77 due to medical conditon....no more overseas travel. After VP service who wants a desk..." [18FEB2001]

Memorial Picture "...GILMAN, AD1 Timothy Roger...Timothy Roger Gilman passed away at work after a massive heart attack on November 9, 2019. I don't know how long he was in the squadron, but his picture is in the VP-44 Cruisebook from 1984. Additional information can be found on French & Rising - Goffstown Obituary. He is buried in a Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, New Hampshire. He was one hell of a jet mechanic, and a friend. He will be sorely missed. R.I.P. Tim..." Contributed by CARROLL, AMEC Dennis P. Retired p3fe418yrs@gmail.com [17JAN2020]

GLENN, AT Allen E. aglenn@eaglesystemsinc.net "...I served with VP-45 from 1975 to 1977, VXN-8 from 1977 to 1980, VP-44 from 1980 to 1983, CPW-5 from 1983 to 1986 and VP-11 from 1986 to 1990. I was an AT ground pounder. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 18OCT2009 | 31AUG97]

GOFF, Bryan bmgoff@sbcglobal.net "...USN 1986-90 P-3c USNR 1990-95 P-3b/c AW2 SS-1 - I was trained in VP-30 on the east coast but ended up in VP-19 on the west coast. I did a short "tour" in VP-44 as an observer while I was in VP-30. I had the time of my life in NAS Misawa, Japan in 89...saw NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, the NS Sangley Point, Philippines and Korea and got to play with REAL subs. I got out in 1990 and went to college but stayed in the reserves in VP-92 where I got to see some east coast ports like NS Rota, Spain and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Most of the real bad guys were gone by then but I still loved it. In 1995 the squadron moved to Maine a little too far for me. I got out and I miss it but at least I can still tell sea stories. I would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 13MAY2007 | E-Mail Updated 31JUL2002 | 26APR99]

GOOCHER, AOCS Joe Retired sthp45@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-10 (05/1968-11/1973), VP-10 (03/1974-03/1978), VP-44 (07/1983-06/1985) and CPW-5 (06/1985-11/1989). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 06OCT2013 | E-Mail Updated 28FEB2001 | 07MAY99]

GORMAN, Jeffrey A. jaggcmi@juno.com "...VP-44: 1979-1982, VX-1 1982-1984, VP-93 1985-1994..." [10JAN2000]

GOUGH, John GoughJ@secondflt.navy.mil "...VP-44 1984-1988, PMTC 1988-1990, VQ-2 1991-1994, VQ-1 1994-1996. NFO on EP-3A, RP-3A, P-3C UII, EP-3E ARIES I and II. Now flying a desk at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington..." [E-Mail Updated 29MAY2002 | 13JAN98]

GRAHAM, AK1 Dee Retired dee.graham@cox.net "...I served with VP-44 (10/1969-10/1971), NATTC NAS Jacksonville, Florida (10/1971-07/1973), VP-92 (07/1976-02/1979), NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts (02/1979-07/1980), NAS Alameda, California and NAS Moffett Field, California (07/1982-12/1995)..." [25FEB2015]

GREELY, AO1 Bruce Retired alffer@aol.com "...I served with VP-30 (school) and then to VP-47 from 1975 to 1979, NAS Alameda, California Weapons station from 1979 to 1982, VP-44 from 1982 to 1985, Recruiting Command from 1985 to 1987, USS Roosevelt (CVN-71) on and off from 1985 to 1992. Now living in Montana..." [14JUN2004]

GREENE, AN Robert greentogolf@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 (09/1955-09/1957) and flew with Crew-12 as a Radio Operator. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [16MAR2016]

GUENSCH, AW2 Mark mguensch@yahoo.com "...I was a member of VP-44 from 1984-1986 as an AW second class..." [E-Mail Updated 21JAN2006 | E-Mail Updated 17DEC2004 | E-Mail Updated 14MAR2001 | E-Mail Updated 04DEC2000]

GUNNIN, AXCS Emery Retired emery@gunnin.net "...1960-1963 VP-23 Aircrew on LJ3 Tripple nickel six. 1965-1968 VP-44. 68-71 NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee. 71-75 NAS Bermuda. 75-79 NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida. 79-80 VP-16..." [14FEB2001]

GUNTHER, William F. (Bill) Retired guntherwf@navair.navy.mil "...Served with VW-11 from 1962-1964. Worked EBU in NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada. Sure wish I hadn't let that crusty old ADRC talk me out of becoming a "Scope Dope" those "Barrier Patrols" sounded like fun. Just the same I met my Bride Daphne Hann in St. Johns. Maybe someone out there rode the trip with me and my friend Leo Turchi. Thoes were good times. Served with VP-10 from 1971-1975. F/E on Crew 7 mostly. Deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily / NAS Bermuda with dets to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR chasing the "Johnney Express/ NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal & NAS Bermuda / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. "KEEP ON Truckin." Served with VX-11 from 1975-1978. F/E Those SMILS Dets were the best. 7 days "CREW REST" in Recife, Brazil or the Bermuda Castle Harbour. Served with VP-44 from 1978-1983. F/E CAC-9 (SO FINE). Deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland (Great Times in the PO1 Mess.) Deployed to NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal / NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan / Alongapo/ NSF Diego Garcia/ NAS Bermuda. Served with NRL/FSD 38-86 & retirement after 27 yrs and approx 8,900 P-3 flight hours (not a record). Deployd to the West Coast of south america including Easter Island & then the east coast and over to Gabon. Wasn't the COLD WAR fun!..." [BIO Updated 19JAN2002 | 18JAN2002]


HAGER, Jack A. Jr. hagerjrjack@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 (1966-1967)..." [11AUG2014]

HALSEY, Sterling (Bull) Retired bull123@hughes.net "...I was first in the VP outfits: VP-8 NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island 1956, VP-7 1959-1962, VP-30 1962-1965, some shore duty, VP-11 1965-1968 and VP-44 1970-1974. I have a lot of good memories a few bad that you can't forget. I would like to shoot the bull with any one that would like too. I started out an AD then to ADR and back to AD when I retired in 1974. I have been in contact with a few guys (Widdle and Gadeberg). I spent some time with Joe in Washington St. a while back. It's a place called Omak. I stop in and bother my old PPC Charlie Epps. He only lives 10 miles away quite often..." [E-Mail Updated 20SEP2007 | 26JAN2001]

HAMILTON, Tom SHABECKIE@EROLS.COM "...I served with the Golden Peligum VP-44 from 1974 thru 1976 as a PN2. Was the greatest duty I had the pleasure to serve. Retired as a PNC in 1990..." [06DEC99]

HAMMOCK, Larry lhammock@harland.net "...I was in NAS Keflavik, Iceland November 3,1966 - November 2,1967 with a COMFAIRKEF-Staff and worked in the OPCON area in Hanger #831. I flew as a rear observer with VP-10 and VP-44. CAPT Ball was the boss. Worked some in the Graphics Department. Hope some of you all are still kicking..." [12JAN2000]

HANSEN, AT2 HARRY harry_hansen@starkey.com "...SERVED IN VP-44 FROM SEPT.78 THRU OCT.80. THEN TO AZORES FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS. BACK TO NAS Brunswick, Maine FOR 3 YEARS AIMD. I GUESS I JUST WANTED TO SAY THOSE WERE CLEARLY THE BEST YEARS OF MY LIFE. GOOD LUCK TO ALL I SERVED WITH..." [05MAR98]

HANTHORN, George W. (Deceased) c/o His Son George W. Hanthorn, Jr. George.Hanthorn@Zurn.com "...My father, George W. Hanthorn, served in VP-44 during WW II. He was a pilot and a navagator. According to his logbook, he was patrolling around Midway in May 42. On June 1, 1942 his plane (PBY-5A 05003) engaged a two engine Japanese bomber and exchanged fire. Between October 22 and 26, he was involved in the search for Rickenbacker in PBY 5A 04984. In October 42 he was patroling in and around Canton, Palmyra, Fiji and Gaudelcanal. In February 22, 1943, my father and his crew were bombed by the Japanese. Several men were killed or injured. He was flying PBY-5A 08132 at the time. In August, 1943, he was reassigned to NAS Corpus Christi, Texas were he was a flight instructor until the end of the war. My father died in November 1978. I would like to hear from anyone who might have served with VP-44 during this time..." [22FEB98]

HARKEY, CAPTAIN Deon deon.harkey@ngc.com "...I served with VP-44, Crew 5 (The American Heroes) from 1982 through 1986. I recently retired and would love to hear from any of my old Shipmates..." [10JUL2003]

HARRISON, AOC(AW/NAC) Terry L. Retired terrylharrison01@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-31 NAS Jacksonville, Florida from June to October 1982, VP-44 CAC-11 NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1982 to 1985, NAVCRUITDIST San Antonio NRS Austin, TX from 1985 to 1987, NAVRES EEAP Austin, TX from 1987 to 1988, VP-19 CAC-11 NAS Moffett Field, California from 1988 to 1989, VP-50 (ground ordie!!) NAS Moffett Field, California from 1989 to 1991, CPW-10 NAS Moffett Field, California from February to June 1991, VP-30 NAS Moffett Field, California from June to October 1991, USS Abraham Lincoln G-3 DIV Alameda 1991-1992, NAS Whidbey Island, Washington Weapons LPO from 1992 to 1995, VAQ-138 Yellowjackets NAS Whidbey Island, Washington from 1995 to 1999, HS-10 Warhawks NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1999 to 2002, and retired November 2002. I now work as a defense contractor for NAS North Island, San Diego, California Weapons AD&C..." [BIO Updated 15OCT2003 | 20FEB2000]

HARVEY, AMS2 Steve stebharvey@ameritech.net "...I served with NATC NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (1971-1972), VP-44 (1973-1974) and VP-60 (1979-1989) in airframes. I'm now semi-retired after a major health problem but have now started a small business building custom military aircraft weather vanes from brass sheet. If anyone is interested in seeing my work or having an aircraft build for them, e-mail me..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 04OCT2013 | 23JUN98]

HAVENS, Doug Retired dhavens@worldnet.att.net "...I retired under the TERA program as an AW in April 1995. I served in VP-44 (1981-84), VS-35 (1986-88), CV-64 ASWM (1988-1990), ASWOC NS Rota, Spain (1990-93), VP-24 Crew 6 until I retired in April 1995. I live in Jacksonville, Florida..." [18SEP98]

HAYES, AE1 James B. (Gabby) USNR Retired jim-hayes@earthlink.net "...I was assigned to VP-44 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland the week after they recieved their first P-3 (1967). I also served in VP-68 and VP-92 over the next 22 years. Somewhere I have a crew picture that is not on this site, I will send it when I can find it. I would like to hear from some of the old gang..." [E-Mail Updated 11JUL2006 | 16MAR2005]

HAWK, YN2 angusacres@cs.com "...I was there VP-44 (73-75) the best education I ever got. Discharged 75 went to college BS Busines Mgt. Admin, minor in Biolgy. Never used education just work and have fun still. Played ball for years until knees gave out ASA Softball (love that game, expecially if Calhune remembers, wanting me to through game for A team to win Captains Cup). I'm still alive and doing well, going to Jamica for New Years this year. Live on the beach and love to boat and fish. I still remember the great times and everyone we worked with, will reply just send a note, but not between 12/30 and 06/01. Over the teeth, past the gums, look out stomach here it comes..." [30NOV2000]

HAWKINS, AEC Elston E. Retired ehawk7@outlook.com "...I served with VP-44 (1961-1964), NAS Glynco, Georgia (1964-1968), NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1968-1970), NAS Adak, Alaska (1970-1973), NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee (1973-1977), VC-10 (1977-1980) and retired in June 1980..." [E-Mail Updated 17AUG2017 | E-Mail Updated 10FEB2001 | 28FEB99]

Memorial Picture "...HEALD, John...If you remember John Heald, he was a very well-liked personality in VP-44, a PR3 who worked in the paraloft. Having a natural gift for gab, he loved recounting good times with friends. He was 55, and the news has shocked us all who knew him. It was too late to call any more people on the east coast, however I did call a few west of here before it got too late. John Kiger roadapple38@hotmail.com..." [11MAR2002]

HEALD, John H. healdj@ci.savage.mn.us "...I served in VP-44 from 1967 to 1970. I was a parachute rigger. I would enjoy hearing from anyone from the 67 to 70 period in VP-44..." [20JAN98]

HENSMAN, AE2 Arnie arnie100@hotmail.com "...Served with VP-44 from 66 - 69. Member of Crew 3 Pel 32 BUNO 152173. Looking forward to hear from those I have served with..." [13JUN98]

Memorial Picture HERIN, ARM2 Arthur P. (AKA Speedy) Jr. Shipmate Pix C/O His Daughter Joyce Tanis georgiapeach20603@yahoo.com or Son Arthur Wayne Herin mortarman120gang@yahoo.com "...My Father, Arthur P. Herin Jr. (AKA Speedy), served with VPB-44 from 1942 to 1945. He was stationed NAAF Green Island (AKA Nissan). He mentioned that when his squadron was leaving to return home when they picked up new but defective PBY's from relief squadron there. The new squadron took possesion of their planes and continued on. Dad passed away August 02, 2010..." [BIO Updated 13MAR2011 | Updated E-Mail/BIO 01NOV2001 | 10APR98]

HILES, Michael E sluf@earthlink.net "...I was station at VP-44 from 1982 to 1985, three deployments NAS Bermuda, NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and NS Rota, Spain/NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. My position in the aircraft was as an IFT and remained on the same crew for the entire tour. Departed back to Helo's with HT-18 Vigilant Eagles then a tour at NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal at the ASWOC. From there I went to Projects at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and worked as a Project Officer with VP-Comms. I recieved a commission as an LDO and departed to VC-6 FIREBEES Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to perform BDA and special projects work. I am currently assigned to Naval Strike Aircraft Test Squadron at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Plan to retire this May with 21 years 8 months service..." [E-Mail Updated 04OCT2001 | 15JAN99]

HILL, ADCS Daniel E. Retired dehill@dhlairways.com "...Joined September 1964 and retired September 1988. Served as F/E VP-9 65-69, VRF-32 69-70, VP-22 70-73, NATC NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 73-76, VQ-4 (C130 F/E) 76-78, VP-44 78-80, NADC Warminster, PA 80-84, and VP-19 84-88. I would enjoy hearing from some of the Shipmates I was fortunate enough to have served with..." [18MAR2002]

HOLLOWAY, John A. Jr. Retired johnafthrs@cox.net "...I served with VP-44 as a FE from 1973 to 1977 then transfered to NAF Naval Air Development Center, Warminster, Pennsylvania where I flew P-3A's, of which the first P-3 was one and also YP-3C, P-3C's, Update I, Update II and the first Update III which at the time was the newest P-3 in the fleet. I retired in 1981 after recovering from a heart attack and now live in Connecticut. I would love to here from any of my old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 27DEC2003 | E-Mail Updated 22DEC2000 | 15DEC98]

HOOKER, AVCM Harry G. Retired HarryJudyH@aol.com "...Served with VP(HM) 13 in NAS Chincoteague, Virginia in 1957 - 1960 as an AT3/AT2. Deployed to Malta and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Squadron redesignated as VP-24 and transferred to NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Commissioned VP-30 in June 1960. 1962-Transferred to VP-45 (P5Ms) in Bermuda as an AT/AX1, deployed to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Moved to NAS Jacksonville, Florida with P-3s in 1963. Deployed to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada in 1964 (AXC). Reassigned to VP-30 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1966. Transferred to VP-44 at Patuxent River in 1968 (AXCS). Deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. Squadron moved to NAS Brunswick, Maine in 1970, deployed to NAS Bermuda. Transferred to NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1971, retired as AVCM in 1973. Currently live in Alachua, FL..." [23SEP2002]

HORRELL, Les Cpohorrell@aol.com "...Did one tour of duty in VP-44 about 1955-1958. Made chief in the squadron Went to VR-22 across the hangar.Looking for Richard Langlais ADR1 and Jerry Mollenhauer AEC..." [07JUL2000]

HOSTETLER, Barry boat321@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 (1972-1975) at NAS Brunswick, Maine as an IFT with CAC-1. We deployed to NAS Bermuda (1973/1974) and a split deployment to NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (1974/1975). I then reported to VP-30 (1976-1979) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida as the NATOPS IFT Evaluator. Great times had by all..." [13DEC2010]

HOWARD, PHCS (NAC) Dave Retired daveh@howent.com "...Hello fellow Shipmates of VP-44. Thrilled to see some names that were very familiar. I served with VP-44 from 1979-1981. We did the first deployment of P-3 Update II aircraft to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Then was broken-hearted (yeah, right!!) to learn that our scheduled deployment to NS Rota, Spain would be cancelled for the West Pac deployment to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. For those who might not remember me, I worked out of the AIO office (LTjg Jeanine Gregoire). My job was train pilots and AO's (mostly) on running rigging patterns using the Agiflite camera system. Can't tell you how proud I was of each one of you. We won so many CPW-5 Photo of the Month contests that I believe they disqualified us from further participation. Serving with VP-44 was the most incredible and rewarding experience I had in the Navy. From VP-44, I went to the FLAVFACLANT, NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1981-1984; FLTAVFACLANT NAS Keflavik, Iceland from 1984-1987 (hooked up with CAPT Goolsby when he was assigned Chief of Staff, COMFAIRKEF); Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 26) 1987; and finally Naval Technical Intelligence Center, Suitland. I retired in July 1989. If anyone wants to recount stories of sandbagging the MCPOC door during a typhoon in Kadena or bartending naked in Kef, and many more stories, please feel free to contact me. I see a couple of photomates on these pages, will try to contact you guys..." [09APR2003]

HOWDEN, Richard M. rm.howde@hotmail.com "...Attended "A" School at NAS Millington, Tennessee (1974), ASWOC (1975-1977) at NS Rota, Spain Rota Spain, VP-30 (Flight School), VP-44 (1977-1979) with a deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland flying with CAC-12. Got out in 1979 and moved to London for 6 months. Ended up back in the States and started working at Todd Shipyards in San Pedro, Ca. in the Combat Systems Test team. Never spent more than a couple of hours on a ship the entire time in the Navy and ended up working on new construction FFG's. I found out what it was like to "walk the bulkheads" during heavy seas and the port and starboard 1990's that was done to check the ship. Knew right then that I was VERY thankful to have been in the P-3 community and "home every night." I did surveillance while in the Navy and I still do it as my business in Colorado. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 15JAN2014 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 01NOV2013 | 24SEP99]

HOWE, Clay howec@charter.net "...I'd like to get in touch with ex-VP-44 Shipmates from the late 1950's - early 1960's..." [E-Mail Updated 04MAY2002 | E-Mail Updated 08SEP99 | 00JAN97]

HOWE, Eric "Toby" howe13@cybertours.com "...Still looking for my old sea dad ADC(RET) Lipofsky. I was a FEAP in VP-44 from 89-90, and again in VP-10 from 90-96 (qualed as FE in 92). I'm now serving time in VP-8 as OPS FE. Miss all those old Red Lancers..." [24APR98]

HEWELL, AT2 Timoth P. thewell1936@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1957) and flew with Crew-5..." [14AUG2014]

HUETE, Julio Z. Jr. jzhjr@comcast.net "...I served with VP-23 (1981-1984), VP-44 (1984-1986), VQ-2 (1986-1989), NADEP NAS Alameda, California Flight Check (1989-1992), VQ-1 (1992-1994) and retired as a P-3 Flight Engineer 8251. Went to work for Tracor Flight Systems Chile (1994-1996), Raytheon (1996-1999) amd currently working for the U. S. Customs Service as a FE..." [21AUG2013]

Memorial Picture "...HUTCHINSON, J. H. G. (Jack)...My uncle, Ensign J. H. G. (Jack) Hutchinson, was in VP-44 during the Pacific campaign. He rarely talked of his experience, except on rare occasions, when he was in a certain mood. Would like to hear or any stories, rumors, or anicdotes from that era...Dennis Hutchinson drh@digital-link.net..." [28MAR2005]


IBANEZ-ESTEVEZ, PNCM(SW) Jaime el-buda@cox.net "...I served with VP-44 from May 1973 to July 1975 (arrived there as PNSN). I reenlisted in July 1975 and went to BUPERS in Washington, D.C. I was promoted to PNCM(SW) on August 1994. Presently stationed in PSD NAS Norfolk, Virginia as the AOIC. I hope to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 30MAR2004 | 18NOV98]

IRELAND, ADCS William (Bill) A. Retired gummadoom@comcast.net "...I served with HT-18 (1971 to 1974), VP-6 (1974 to 1977), HT-18 (1978 to 1980), VP-44 (1980 to 1983), VF-45 (1983 to 1987), VP-56 (1987 to 1990), AIMD NAS Jacksonville, Florida from (1990 to 1993) and retired after 22 years of service..." [E-Mail Updated 02DEC2007 | 18AUG98]

IRELAND, AD1 Steve Retired ridesafe@tds.net "...Just wanted to say hello again out there to all the VP'ers as I was fortunate to homestead in NAS Brunswick, Maine for 17 of my 20 year career. I retired in 1998 from AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine. Went to NAS Brunswick, Maine Fire Department for 4 years after retirement and then took a job at the Cutler Naval Station (yes it's still open!) as their Safety Manager. That lasted almost two years and came back to NAS Brunswick, Maine as a Traffic Safety Contractor. Working all over the Northeast and loving it. I did manage to take a 3-month break and work at the Togus VA Hospital. Got bored and wanted to get back to my passion of teaching. Would like to hear from any Shipmates out there from VP-8, VP-11, VP-44, FASO/SERE School Brunswick, and also from my very first Navy tour with VF-143 Pukin' Dogs onboard the USS Eisenhower. Life is good in Maine, the way life should be!..." [BIO Updated 23MAR2011 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 01OCT2003 | 26SEP98]


JACOBS, CAPTAIN Francis T. "Ted" Retired tedjacobs@centurytel.net "...Wings of Gold on December 14, 1968, VT-3 (Instruction) at NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida from January 1969 to December 1970, VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine from September 1971 to December 1973 (1st LT, ORD, AV/WEPS & QA Div Off) with deployed to NS Rota, Spain, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal and NAS Bermuda, Naval Reserve VP-60 at NAS Glenview, Illinois from January 1974 to August 1982 (first P-3 in VP-60 still had my name on side from VP-44), Commanding Officer NR VP-4046 / VP-0122 from January 1983 to September 1984 (Last flight in P-3 September 19, 1984), Commanding Officer NR NAS Midway Island and Commanding Officer NR Mobile Maintenance Facility. I was recall to active duty, NMPC special projects for RADM Borda in 1990 and retired September 1993. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [09JUN2010]

JENNETTE, YN Steve nojenn53@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1972-1974 as a Yeoman, in our Communications Department, headed by Lt Dean. I will always remember the fun we had deploying to NS Rota, Spain and NAS Bermuda....and the sadness of losing a crew that flew into the mountains one night. Would love to get back in touch with any former Golden Pelicans out there. Drop me a note. My kids are all in college now, so have time to live in the past again!..." [18OCT2005]

JERASA, CWO4 Ron "Gunner" Retired ron.jerasa@gmail.com "...I served with VP-6 (1974-1977), NADC (Warminister) Johnsville, Pennsylvania (1977-1980), VP-44 (09/1980-12/1983), NADC (Warminister) Johnsville, Pennsylvania (1983-1986), USS Independence (CV-62) (1986-1988), VC-10 (1988-1990) at NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, AIMD NAS Oceana (1990-1992), USS John F. kennedy (CV-67) (1992-1994), USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) (1994-1996) and VF-11 (1996-1998). We are now living in Virginia Beach..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 13FEB2015 | 14JAN2001]

JESTER, AL2 Dick nadajes@cybertrails.com "...I had the privilege of serving as 1st Radioman on CC-4 of VP-44 in 1954 after two years aboard USS Coral Sea. While with VP-44 we made an overseas flight to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, Reykavik, Milford Haven in Wales, then on to Taranto, Italy and back. We then made a Hurricane evacuation flight from NAS Norfolk, Virginia to NAS Jacksonville, Florida only to have the hurricane catch up with us there. I would like to touch base with any Shipmates of my era. Thanks..." [14MAY2000]

JOHNSON, CAPTAIN Laurence E. Retired julajohnson@aol.com "...I graduated from the USNA (1967), Flight Training at NAS Pensacola, Florida (1968), P-3 Qualified, VP-44 (1969 to 1972), NAS Point Mugu, California Flag Aide (1972 to 1975), A-Nav aboard the USS Hancock (CVA-19) (1975), Naval War College (1976), VP-24 (1977 to 1980), Deptment Head at Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Washington, D.C. (1980 to 1981), VP-24 as Executive Officer/Commanding Officer (1981 to 1984), Naval War College (1984 to 1985), back to NAVAIR Washington, D.C. and retired in 1995. I worked in the Defense Industry till 2002. The Batman of VP-24 was the best time of all! I am now retired in the Northern Neck of Virginia..." [03MAY2010]

Memorial Picture "...JOHNSON, William Michael "Mike or Bill"...My father passed away a few years ago. Dad served with VP-44 mid 1960s. I was born aboard NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I would like to hear from some of Dad's former Shipmates..." Contributed by Donald Johnson hjohnson5236@charter.net [21NOV2017]

JONES, Jack A. jjones7422@aol.com "...How I enjoy the stories. I was an able bodied airman in VP-12. It was my second assignment as I went through boot camp in Deigo and was assigned to th NAS Photo Lab. Six months later I made a swap for VP-12. My first job was on the ramp driving the gas truck. I filled planes for some time until one day I failed to secure the gas filler hoses and it came out of the truck as I drove down the ramp. The Admiral came out of his office and chased me down the ramp. That was my last day on the gas truck. I was 6ft. 3in so I got in the beach crew as a side mounter. I put on beaching gear for some time and then made night check. Sy Sellers was Leading Chief, Buck Tuft (sic) was Metal Smith Chief, Elmer Parker was AMM2, L. L. Davis was an AP and Stinky Davis was a mechanic. I was sent to NAS Jacksonville, Florida for A school, about Jul 1940 just as the Squadron was deploying to Pearl. We had installed the rubber bullet proof tanks and some of the planes had to be fueled at sea as they didn't make it. I spent a lot of time in VP's, VP-7, VP-21 and retired from the Navy while in VP-44. Also VJ62 and ten years in air wings. I also taught at the Aviation Maintenance Officer School. My Navy training was real great and I went into NASA after retirement and was in the early Project Mercury Group. Put Al Shepard, John Glen and Scott Carpenter in their Capsules. I retired from NASA as chief of quality here in Houston and am chasing Grand kids. Love to hear from any Shipmates..." [15SEP98]

JONES, AO1 John Curtis Retired jones1980@comcast.net "...I served with VP-44 from 1965 to 1967 and VP-60 from 1973 to 1994..." [11MAR2009]

JONES, Johnnie jajones4705@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-30 in 1980, VP-44 from 1980 to 1984, VX-1 from 1985 to 1989, CTF-67 from 1989 to 1992, USS Eisenhower (CVN-69) from 1992 to 1993, AfloatTraGruPac from 1994 to 1997 and TSC NAS North Island, San Diego, California from 1997 to 1999 and transferred to Fleet Reserve 1999. I've enjoyed being in and around P-3's..." [E-Mail Updated 03AUG2004 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 02FEB2000 | 00JAN97]

JUDKINS, AO3 Michael P. mpj.sjs@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1971-1972). I was AO aboard LM-11 with LT Veasey (pilot), LT Poole (co-pilot), Chief Fish (FE), LCDR Blienaut (Tactical Coordinator), Rocky Hudson, Rich Graff and Claud Coffman. I would appreciate any help on how to find the tail number of that aircraft. The first four would be 1521 but I have not been able to find a picture or a way to research what the last two were. Also would like to connect with AO3 R.L. Rodriguez as I still have his pocket watch that he asked me to pick up from island watch repair on Bailey Island, Maine, as he was discharged and went home to the Miami area before it was ready. Joe Redman, I think that I knocked on your door In Gunnison just a few days after you left in 1974..." [30NOV2020]


KALETA, AWC Ed Retired ekaleta@prb.net "...Commands, in reverse order, VX-1, USS Saratoga, ASWOC NAS Sigonella, Sicily, TSC NAS Brunswick, Maine, VP-44, VP-8, VP-30, VS-34 , USS Randolph, USS Essex, VW-13. Current employment with PRB Associates near NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as part of the TSC, DIAC and FTAS Software Support Activity. Best wishes to all former Shipmates..." [13NOV98]

KANDEL, Tom tsckan@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1966 to 1970 and NAMTD at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1970 to 1973. Flew with Crew 3 on BUNO 152173 as JEZ operator. Taught P-3A-B-C NAV/COM while at NAMTD NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Looking forward to hear from those I served with..." [E-Mail Updated 10OCT2009 | 04MAY2000]

Memorial Picture "...KAPPEL, Paul...Fellow Shipmate, Paul Kappel, passed away from congested heart failure in Tulso Ok. Paul served with VP-44 from 1974 to 1976. He will be missed by his friends..." Contributed by GILL, Christopher E. Retired chrisegill@mail.com [11AUG2008]

KASER, CAPTAIN Robert Dale Jr. http://www.marquette.edu/rotc/navy/command.htm "...Captain Dale Kaser was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and entered the Navy through the Aviation Reserve Officer Candidate Program after graduating from the University of Cincinnati in June 1974. Upon completion of naval flight training he was designated a naval aviator in September 1975. Initial operational tour was with VP-4 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. There he served as line division and NATOPS officer. In 1979 he reported for instructor duty to VT-31 in NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. In 1981 he received a Master of Arts degree with a management major from Webster University. In 1982 he reported aboard USS FORRESTAL (CV-59) as Assistant Navigator. Captain Kaser served as the Carrier Placement Officer assigned to the Naval Military Personnel Command and in November 1986 reported to VP-5 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. During this tour he served as Training Officer and Maintenance Department Head. He was then assigned to CPW-11 as Training Officer and Assistant Operations Officer. Selected for operational command he served as Executive Officer of VP-44 until disestablished and Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of VP-26 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. Graduating from the Naval War College in 1994, he received a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies. He then reported to the Staff of Supreme Allied Commander, Europe in Casteau, Belgium where he served as the Section Coordinator for NATO Maritime Requirements. Additionally, from December 1995 to May 1996 he was temporarily assigned to the Implementation Forces (IFOR) in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina as the Joint Operation Center Shift Director. In July 1997 he reported to CINCPACFLT as Deputy Director for Operations. In August 2000 he became the Professor of Naval Science and Commanding Officer of the NROTC Unit at Marquette University. Captain Kaser has been awarded numerous personal, unit, campaign and service awards..." [13JUN2003]

KEITH, Robert "Wolfman" robert.keith@pope.af.mil "...I served in VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine from January 1981-1984. I worked in the Power Plants section (WC120), my nick name was Wolfman. Some of the names I see are familiar, wish there could be a picture attached. I am very interested in this site and hope to hear from anyone who might recognize my name. I am active duty AirForce now, 6 months until retirement..." [15MAR2001]

KENNON, ATC Dave Retired ldkennon@mindspring.com "...I served with VP-45 from 1976 to 1979 with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily and VP-44 from 1983 to 1986 with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. First install of the S-3 ISAR radar system in a P-3..." [20MAY2011]

KERSEY, YN2 Phil pkersey@southernco.com "...I served with VP-8 from 77-82 with various stints in VP-11, VP-23, VP-26 and VP-44. Deployed NAS Bermuda/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal 78, NS Rota, Spain/ NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal 79-82. Great memories. Hoping old Shipmates will drop a line..." [19JAN2000]

KIGER, PN3 John E. roadapple38@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1967-1970 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [E-Mail updated 29NOV2002 | E-Mail Updated 24MAR2001]

KINIRY, Richard A. rich_kin@hotmail.com "...I closed out my four years in the Navy being discharged from NAS Norfolk, Virginia in October 1955. I served as a radar operator in VP-44 on boat # 12. Interested in making e-mail contact with crew members who served on #12 from 1954-1955..." [10MAY2003]

KOBZIAK, Ted (Ski) Retired ri2az@msn.com "...I served with VW-11 from June 1960 till Dec.1963. I got there as AMS2 left as a AMS1. I made 2 dets to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I enjoyed this tour on the Rock. VW-11 was great duty. I left VW-11 to VT-23 at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. Left there in 1966 for a 3 year tour with VX-6 in NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island. I made 2 tours to the Ice and the last year in CHI CHi. Imade chief in VX-6 in 1967. I then left there for NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island. I made E-8 in 1971. I then left NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island in 1973 for VP-44. I retired in1976. I went back to R.I. to work for the Post Office retiring in 1999. I now reside in Mesa, AZ..." [15JAN2003]

KOHL, Douglas PabbaLou@AOL.com "...Served with VP-44 in '79-'81. Deployments to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal/ NS Rota, Spain. I was the cook that no-one knew about..." [05JUL2001]

KOIS, ADCS(AC) Robert "Bob" Retired p2vairdale@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-26 (1956-1960) CAC-6, VP-30 (1960-1964) PC Instructor P2 and P5M, VP-16 (1964-1967) P-3 FE and VP-44 (1971-1974) P-3 FE. I was a "plank owner" in VP-30 first assigned to VP-30 Det A, NAS Norfolk, Virginia flying P5M Seaplanes, moved in 1961 to NAS Jacksonville, Florida operating the seaplanes on the St. Johns River training the VP Seaplane crews from NAS Bermuda. When the P5M's were phased out I returned to the P2 flight line. I was in VP-30 when the squadron was ordered to "Operational Status" to participate in the Cuban Missle Crisis. Retired in 1978. Currently residing in SW Florida enjoying life..." [30OCT2010]

KRAEMER, AOC(AC) Wayne W. wayne388@adelphia.net "...Entered US Navy at RTC San Diego 50-51. AO prep & AO school 51. NPG Dahlgren 51-53. USS Hornet CVA-12 53-54. VP-44 54-56. NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada 56-58. VS-39 58-59. VF-21 59-61. VP-8 61-64. NAS Moffett Field, California 64-66. VP-9 66-70. NWS Fallbrook 70-73. VP-17 73-77. PMRF NAS Point Mugu, California 77-80..." [27FEB2005]

Memorial Picture "...KREITZER, CDR William Rutherford...William Rutherford Kreitzer, 88, of Town Creek, died March 25, 2007, at his home. Born Oct. 25, 1918, in Savannah, Ga., he was the son of the late William Clausen Kreitzer and Elizabeth Rutherford Kreitzer. He was the husband of Madeleine Moon Kreitzer, whom he married on Oct. 23, 1943. He graduated from Savannah High School in 1936 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an apprentice seaman and served aboard the USS Tennessee. After two years of duty he entered the Naval Academy Prep School in Norfolk, Va. After a year at the U.S. Naval Academy he spent two years at Georgia Tech. He then re-enlisted in the Navy, went through flight training and was commissioned as an ensign on May 15, 1942. After qualifying as a naval aviator the next month, he joined VP-202, and conducted antisubmarine flights in the Gulf of Mexico and the mid-Pacific during World War II. He flew 1,500-mile flights toward Japan aboard PBM seaplanes to prevent surprise attacks against U.S. forces. This part of the war effort started at New Guinea and proceeded up the Pacific from atoll to atoll. As Marines landed on each atoll, seaplane squadrons arrived and established a system of buoys to tie up and begin flights. He was awarded three Air Medals for his activities in the Pacific. He then participated in the atomic bomb test at Bikini Atoll in 1946, flying safety and rescue missions. His next assignment was with Operation Highjump in 1947, an exploratory and mapping project of Antarctica. Kreitzer Glacier was named for him, as were Kreitzer Bay and Kreitzerizen, which was named by the government of Norway. He spent one year as a student at the Naval War College in Newport, R.I., and later taught there for two years. From 1949 to 1951 he served in VH-4 at NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba as well as VP-44. He served one year as navigator aboard the aircraft carrier USS Tripoli in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. He spent three years in the office of the chief of naval operations in the Pentagon and two years at the Naval Hydrographic Office making charts and graphs. He retired as commander in 1968. Following his retirement, he earned a bachelor's degree from George Washington University, a master's degree from American University and completed work for a doctorate from George Washington University. He also completed an internship in clinical psychology at Springfield State Hospital. He began a second career as a school psychologist for the St. Mary's County public schools. He also provided psychological therapy services for a youth organization and taught psychology at St. Mary's College of Maryland. In addition he conducted a private psychology practice in St. Mary's County. Later he was a psychological consultant in the emergency room at St. Mary's Hospital. Following a second retirement, he and his wife joined the Peace Corps and spent two years in Belize, between 1986 and 1988, where he worked as a psychologist and his wife worked in a free medical clinic. His hobbies included travel, beekeeping and stereographic photography. For a time, he owned and operated a beekeeping supply business. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Frederick Kreitzer. He is survived by his wife, Madeleine; and their seven children; Susan Norlund of Sky Forest, Calif., Thomas Richard Kreitzer of Lovettsville, Va., Nancy Kreitzer of Huntingtown, Joan Ellis of Kingston, N.Y., Katy Boyd of Leonardtown, Robert E. Kreitzer of Bangor, Maine, and Janet Kreitzer of Santa Cruz, Calif. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held today, March 28, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Lexington Park. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, March 29, at 10:30 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, followed by refreshments in the parish hall. A military service with full honors and interment will take place May 30 at 3 p.m. at Arlington National Cemetery. Arrangements are being provided by Brinsfield Funeral Home in Leonardtown..." WebSite: The Enterprise http://www.somdnews.com/stories/032807/enteobi174624_32111.shtml [30MAR2007]

KREITZER, William wkreitze@us.hsanet.net "...Served in VP-202, VP-44, and VH-4..." [E-Mail Updated 11DEC98 | E-Mail Updated 12NOV98]

KUEHNE, Art KuehneAP@T.state.gov "...I was in VP-44 from 1976 until 1979 when I transferred to PATWINGSLANT where I was the Flag Lieutenant for RADM Paul Mulloy. I then served on the USS Independence (CV-62) as Tactical Coordinator and ASW Officer. Two interesting cruises - Lebanon and Grenada. I was assigned to VP-48 from 1984-87 where I was Admin Officer and Ops Officer. In 1987 I went to the Joint Staff in Washington, D.C., where I worked in the J-5 Directorate on arms control issues. In 1990-91, I was assigned TDY to the National Security Council helping finish the START Treaty. In 1991, transferred to the On Site Inspection Agency (OSIA) to help implement the newly signed START Treaty. I retired in 1994 and went to work at the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency. I'm currently the Policy Advisor to the U.S. Ambassador to the Joint Compliance and Inspection Commission, the commission set up to discuss and resolve implementation issues for the START Treaty..." [E-Mail Updatd 10AUG2000 | 23MAR98]

KUHHIRTE, ATCS Dick Retired rkuhh2021@gmail.com "...Started my career with VP-10 in May 1962. Got out in February 1965 after flying almost 2000 hours in the P2V5. My first flight as radio operator out of code school was to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada and had deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, and the Key West det. After being 'out' 1 1/2 years I came back in the Navy and my 8265 NEC got me back to NAS Brunswick, Maine. In VP-11 I transisioned from the P2V7 to the P-3B. I was there from May 1966 to September 1969 with trips to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Went to 'B' school then back to NAS Brunswick, Maine, this time VP-44 flying the P-3A with NS Rota, Spain and a NAS Bermuda deployments. Had a shore tour in a NAS Pensacola, Florida, then back to NAS Brunswick, Maine for another tour in VP-11 from February 1978 to May 1981. Began my VP career as an ATS3 radio operator and it seems I got to do just about every thing on aircraft, even got to fly one for a short while. Ended it as an ATCS IFT. Looking back, I have no regrets and enjoyed being in the VP Navy. After retiring in 1984, I got a job with a government contractor here in Pensacola tracking helicopter parts for the NADEP. Stayed here when the NADEP moved to Cherry Point. I now am the Maintenance Department and Safety Manager at a Surgery Center..." [E-Mail Updated 01JUL2022 | 01OCT2000]


LAKE, ADJ1 Gary R. Retired williej@westco.net "...I served in VP-44 from April 1961 until February 1970. I am interested in hearing from fellow ship mates. I was flight engineer on CDR. Gigliotti's crew when I left the squadron. I returned to Naval Air Test Center NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to service test, then transferred to Weapons Test P-3 line where I retired August 1, 1973. Also served in VP-56 flying P5M's April 1958 until April 1959..." [08JAN99]

LAMBERT, AW (NAC/IUSS) Reynolds (LaDon) Retired mailhandlerbama@aol.com "...Served in VS-30 (76-79), VP-1 (80-83), VP-30 (83-86), VP-44 (86-88) Medical grounding in 88 converted to the OTA rating stationed at NOPF Ford Island Hi, NAVFAC Centerville Beach CA, NAVFAC NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, NETPDC NAAS Saufley Field, Florida, Pensacola Florida as an OTA. Retired in NOV 98 Currently working for the U.S. Postal Service and living in Pace, Fla. Any old Shipmates please contact would love to talk about old times in the VP Navy..." [17JAN2001]

LANE, Clarence Reed lanebud@hotmail.com "...I served in VP-21 at NAS Pearl Harbor, Hawaii in 1941. We lost our planes and I was then transfered to VP-44. Assigned as aircrew and flew patrols from Pearl, Canton, Johnston and Midway islands. I was glad to find this web site but I an not find much of us old dogs. Anyone left, I wonder..." [19AUG2007]

LARKIN, Terry terrylarkin@earthlink.net "...I got to VP-44 after JAG school in Newport RI in November 1962, was the squadron legal officer, then the PAO officer although VP-8 always said Andy Serrell was the real PAO officer. Andy was the one that put all the writers in his plane and all the photographers in the other plane when the P-3 picture of 'ol 44 appeared in all the newsreals over the Soviet ship ANASOV with missles headed for Cuba. Would like to make the Reunion at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in September 2003. Would love to hear from some of the crowd, from November 1962 to January 1966. Have a lot of photos from that time and would like to have them on DVDs for the Reunion..." [30JUL2003]

Memorial Picture "...LAVENBARG, Paul...Did anyone know my father, Paul Lavenbarg? He was enlisted from about 1957 until around 1987 or so. He worked/flew with the P-3 squadrons. He was last stationed in NAS Jacksonville, Florida and passed away in 1995. I have found a picture via the internet of him with the VP-44 CAC-1 crew. I'm trying to put together some of his history for my brothers and I about his Navy career. Anything would be great! Thanks!...Todd Lavenbarg tritodd@sbcglobal.net..." [E-Mail Updated 02JUL2005 | 28OCT2004]

LAWTON, John johnlawton@webtv.net "...VP-44, 1975 TO 1979 Civilian 79 to 81 NATTC Lakehurst, NJ 81 to 83 VP-23, 83 to 87 AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine, 87 to 91 VC-10 NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, 91 to 93 AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine, 93 to 97 Retired in 97, never met so many wonderful people in my life. Wish i could do it all again.( well almost all of it. ) Had alot of great adventures on some of those deployments. My friends in the civilian world don`t believe half what i tell them, but we that were there no what happened in our own world..." [18FEB2001]

LENHARR, ADCS(AW) STAN slenharr@hotmail.com "...Served with VP-6 NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii from February 1981 through October 1984, AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine from November 1984 through June 1987, VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine from July 1987 until it was disestablished in May 1991, and AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine from August 1991 through July 1993. After 2nd tour at AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine checked into VP-8 July 1993 and enjoyed 7 fun-filled years there until I transfered to NRL at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland September 2000. I am currently still at NRL. Retirement is in the near future. Would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [BIO Updated 17APR2002 | BIO Updated 10APR2002 | BIO/E-Mail Updated 18MAR2002 | 10MAY98]

LEVESQUE, AT2 David dlvqaz56@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (11/1976-06/1980), Ground pounding at Naval Weapons Test Squadron (WST) (11/1976-07/1979) with deployments to NAS Bermuda- NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (1977) and NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1979) and VP-11 (06/1980-06/1981) as Weapons System Test (WST) and IFT during their transistion to Update IIs with deployment to NS Rota, Spain- NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. Any old Shipmates please drop me an email..." [E-Mail Updated 10JAN2020 | E-Mail Updated 08DEC2007 | E-Mail Updated 12MAY2001 | 17NOV99]

LINDSAY, Harley NOLinz@aol.com "...I was in VP-44 from JUL75-JUL78 and until I did my tour on USS NASSAU. My tour as a Golden Pelican was the best tour I had. I homesteaded in Virginia Beach from 1982 until I retired as PNCM(SW) (yeah, I turned blackshoe) in AUG97. Now I work in New Orleans with, of all companies, Lockheed Martin. I look forward to hearing from all of you guys. Take Care...I now work in Falls Church VA instead of New Orleans LA..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 30SEP99 | 07NOV98]

LINDSEY, AWC Robert P. Retired rlindsey@tampabay.rr.com "...I served in VP-48 68/70, Sere School Brunswick, Maine 70/74 and VP-44 74/78 when I retired. Lots of good times and wonderful people in those days..." [16MAR2002]

LIPOFSKY, ADC John D. Retired lipofsky@roadrunner.com "...Hello and Greetings, My last flying tour was with the Red Lancers of VP-10. I have also been in VP-44 (81-82& 89-decom) VP-8,(83-85) Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5),(82-83 & 85-89) VP-45 (77-81) (my first VP tour). FLew for 18 years and 7000+hrs then drove the admin div desk at AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine. Drop a line and Say hello...I am currently teaching (4 1/2yrs) Industrial Arts and Technology (shop) at the local High School, the hours are awesome no 3am pre-flights in the snow to bounce" "Mon thru Fri 7:30 to 3:00, Saturdays, Sundays, Summers, and best of all Snow Days off..." [E-Mail Updated 16NOV2007 | BIO/E-Mail Updated 15APR2002 | 27JUN98]

LOYD, AT2 Todd SeaDog615@aol.com "...My first tour was as an axar with VP-44 from 90-decommissioning. Transferred to USS Forrestal from 91-Decommissioning. Transferred to VQ-3 Tinker AFB Oklahoma from 92-96. Transferred to Recruiting Duty, Oklahoma City, OK. Still have the famous budmen patch from decomm VP-44. Looking for any old VP-44 paraphanalia, if you have any to sell, email me please..." [25MAY98]

LuMAYE, MS3 Robert James (P.K.A Mark Robert LuMaye) Shipmate Pix halfdanthebold@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1986-1989) at NAS Brunswick, Maine with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NS Rota, Spain..." [25AUG2022]

LUTREN, AE3 Steve sjlwirenut@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1970 to January 1973 and had a great tour of duty. Deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain, NAS Bermuda, Souda Bay, Crete, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I was an AE3 and flew as a second mech with CAC-7. When I wasn't in the air, I worked in the Line Shack with Charlie Mays..." [19DEC2003]

LUX, Robert A. "...I served with VP-44 from 1940 to 1943. I would like to correspond with squadronmates. No e-mail address, but snail mail at: 4144 Country Trail, Bonita CA 91902. Interested in a Reunion if one ever is held..." [10MAR2000]


MADERA, MCPO David "Maddog" maderadj@vfa-87.navy.mil "...Stumbled across the VP pages and enjoyed reading up on VP blasts from the past. Mac Stuecklen of VXN-8 late eighties days, I AM still in the Navy and probably will be for life (you called it). I am a greyhead Mad Senior Chief now. I served with VP-44 from 1983-1985, VXN-8 from 1986-1989, VQ-2 EP-3Es from 1990-1992, VX-1 from 1993-1996, Tomcats and Hornets having been taking my blood for the past three squadrons. I am currently heading to sea on the TUSS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Retiring out of P-3's has a good ring. Incidently VXN-8ers, Master Chief Mike Smith (Smitty) of VXN-8 aircrew is the CAG 8 Master Blaster. Still a Hellcat. Young Lucky Lucien (ATAN of VXN-8) just checked in yesterday, a seasoned AT1 ready to take over things. Small World. CDR Gore, I still recall that dance under the mistletoe (does she?). Good VP days..." [18NOV2002]

MAKOWSKI, AW3 Keith "Ski" thegoodyankee@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1973 to 1976. I would like to hear from any of my fellow Shipmates during that period..." [E-Mail Updated 07MAR2024 | 02DEC2002]

MANN, AMSC J. R. Retired jrmshmsr@yahoo.com "...Entered the Navy on July 1959. I served with the USS Independence (CV-62), USS Antietam (CV-36), NAS Pensacola, Florida, B-School and FE School, VP-9 (1965 to 1968), VP-44, Recruiting Duty and VP-24 (1975 to 1979) FE Crew 7..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 15MAR2009 | 07NOV2006]

MARACLE, Ron ron.maracle@sympatico.ca "...I served with VP-44 from May 1979 - August 1981. It was certiantly an elite part of my naval experience. While stationed at NAS Brunswick, Maine. I worked at the barracks and the cafeteria. Anyone out there remember the good times we had such as Bob Kowal, Dave Mccarthy, Alan Madden or Doug Kohl. While on WestPac's we all worked for the 1st LT. Remember the Gee dunk store operated in the hanger, and the great barracks in Okinawa. Hope to hear from you all..." [06SEP2002]

McCHESNEY, Joe joemac01@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1961 to 1963 stationed in NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Aircrew on 4, 5 in P2's and Crew 7 in P-3's. I was on LM5 when we had to make a 1 engine landing on Crete. If any of my crew are out there, please contact me. Those were great days..." [BIO Updated 01AUG2006 | 20MAR2006]

MCKINNON, DENNY C121938@AOL.COM "...I FLEW WITH VP-44 AIRCREW ON 4 BOAT P5M-2 FROM 1958 TO 1959. REMEMBER THOSE LOOONG TAKE OFF RUNS WITH JATOS BURNING UNDER A FULL ASW LOAD. THEN THE GCA APPROACH TO WILLOUGHBY BAY OVER NOB Norfolk, Virginia AFTER FLYING ALL NIGHT. I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM LCDR WILSON, (PPC), J. D. OXNER, RED (MAD) HATTER, LEANORD (BUTTER) BEAN, OR ANY THAT SERVED IN THE PELICAN SQUADRON. I'M GETTING A LITTLE OLDER NOW BUT THOSE MEMORIES WILL NEVER LEAVE ME. I ALSO REMEMBER VP-56 LOST 6 BOAT THE NIGHT OF JANUARY 27 IN WILLOUGHBY BAY WITH THE LOSS OF 4 CREWMAN. MAY THEY REST IN PEACE..." [10FEB2002]

MEGALIS, CAPTAIN Rick Retired rmagalis@aol.com "...Enlisted 1963 to 1964, NAVCAD 1964 to 1965 (Commissioned and Winged December 1965), VP-24 from 1966 to 1968, Seaboard World Airlines 1968 to 1970, VP-30 1970 to 1974, USS Independence CV-62 ANav 1974 to 1976, Degree Completion Program 1976 to 1978, VP-44 1978 to 1981, PATWINGSLANT 1981, VT-31 1981 to 1983, COMFAIRKEF ASW Ops O 1983 to 1985, Naval War College 1985 to 1989, CO Rice University NROTC 1989 to 1991, Booz Allen & Hamilton Inc., Royal Saudi Navy Program 1991 to present..." [30DEC98]

MARSH, Bill bmarsh@semcor.com "...Call sign "Swamp Ratt". Served with VP-44 from 1977-1980 and on the staff at COMPATWING TWO from 1980-1983. While in VP-44 I got to fly the last active duty deployment of the P-3A (split NAS Bermuda-Azores deployment), followed by the first deployment of the P-3C Update II ( NAS Keflavik, Iceland deployment). That squadron tour was truly one of the absolute best times of my life and I think everyone in the squadron during that period (77-80) would agree we had our own little Camelot. To my old buds in VP-44...look me up if your heading to San Diego and we'll quaff one for the skipper..." [12MAR98]

MARSON, ADJ2 Craig A. thetwobubs@frontier.com "...I served with VP-44 from June 1966 June 1970 in Powerplants..." [E-Mail Updated 21SEP2010 | 14MAY2007]

MARTINI, DR Perry J. capt.martini@erols.com "...I was in VP-46 from 1973 to 1977. Deployed to WestPac and was on CACs 12, 2 and 9. Was NATOPS Officer and Pilot Stan Officer. Stayed in VPNavy and had tours as an Aide/Flag Lt, Commo on IKE, VP-44 and VP-10 (CO VP-10) and tours in the Pentagon with OPNAV and CJCS. Final tour with USNA as Deputy Director of Athletics and Head of Physical Education. Retired in Annapolis, received my P.hd in High Education and am presnetly the Assistant Secretary for High Education for Maryland and reside with my wife, Jean, in Annapolis near the Chesapeake Bay..." [06JAN2000]

MAURO, AE2 Joseph fafi1@optonline.net "...I served with VP-44 (09/1955-09/1958) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. We flew the P5M and deployed aboard the USS Currituck (AV-7) during Operation Springboard every January at NS Roosevelt Roads, PR..." [D-Mail Updated 15OCT2016 | 08AUG2001]

McDONOUGH, Bill Williemacs@aol.com "...VP-44 '77-'80, CAC 3, a couple of arduous BDA/LPLA split deployments, from Alphas to Charlies, and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. What a blast! Great Shipmates and great leadership! VT-2 '80-'81, CVN-69 '82'-'84, CPW-5 '85-'86, VP-24 '87-'89, BUPERS Carrier Placement '90-'91, CO NAF Mildenhall '91-'92, XO/CO VT-3 '93-'95. Retired '96 and flying with Northwest Airlines ever since! What a life!..." [17DEC99]

McKEARNEY, PO2 James mckearney@alumni.pitt.edu "...I served with VP-44 from 1956 to 1959 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia as a Second Class Metalsmith (excuse me, "aviation structural mechanic"). We flew the P5M-2. I would certainly love to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 20JAN2006 | 16OCT97]

McMANUS, Tom tpm5148@yahoo.com "...Served with VP-44 (Pelicans) 60' to 62', at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and NAS Sigonella, Sicily, at the end of the P5M era and the beginning of the P2V's. They were great times. Was discharged upon return from NAS Sigonella, Sicily, returned to Pennsylvania, spent the next 25 years with PA State Police and Phila. Police, retired in 1990. Now doing a double dip with the PA PUC as a truck safety inspector (when I'm not surfing the NET). Would appreciate hearing from any VP-44 mates from that era. Also, looking for some good quality Photos of P5's and P2's to be used as wallpaper..." [E-Mail Updated 16OCT2005 | E-Mail Updated 19MAR2000 | 21APR99]

McCONNELL, Michael D. (DOC) nascarmike@budweiser.com "...Served in three VP Squadrons. VP-44 from 66-68 Crew 8 "The Eight Balls". VP-9 72-75 Avionics Shop and AIMD. VP-45 from 78-82 CAG-3 and QA. Also served at NAS Los Alamitos, California, FASO NAS Norfolk, Virginia, and NAS Jacksonville, Florida. And a tour as a "Black Shoe" USS Uvalde. 0518/1924..." [19MAY99]

McGINTY, Leo flyinleo@bellsouth.net "...I served with VP-44 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from July 1965 until July 1968 with a great bunch of Shipmates. Spent my whole tour as a pilot on Crew 5 and a lot of the time on the ground in the PAO office. Would like to hear from others "Pelicans" of that era. Still involved in aviation as a FAA Aviation Safety Inspector. Keep in touch..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 02JUN2004 | 06FEB2000]

McMASTER, Donald Retired dmcmaster@maine.rr.com "...I served with VP-8 (1974-1976), CPW-5 (1976-1978), VPU-1 (1978-1983), AW "A" School (1983-1986), VP-44 (1986-1990) where I retired. I still live in Maine with my wife and 4 year old daughter. Would like to hear from any old Shipmates that remember me and the good times..." [E-Mail Updated 03JUN2008 | E-Mail Updated 23MAR2006 | 08FEB2002]

MEEHAN, Terry tjmeehan@pconline.com "...Served in VP-44 from 1984-88 on CAC-1 and CAC-5, then instructed NFOs at Mather AFB from 1988-90. Went TAR from there and served at VP-66 as Safety and Training Officer from 1990-93, COMRESPATWINGLANT DET NAS Brunswick, Maine OIC from 1993-95, Naval War College from 1995-96, and currently XO at NAVAIRESCEN Minneapolis since 1996. Happy to hear from old Shipmates anytime..." [11MAY98]

MERRILL, Mike mikemerr2@cox.net "...I served with VP-22 (05/1962-07/1965) with deployments to NAS Iwakuni, Japan (2) and NS Sangley Point, Philippines, VP-44 (09/1969-07/1971) with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, NS Rota, Spain/ NAS Sigonella, Sicily / Souda Bay, NAS Bermuda and VX-1 (08/1971-08/1974)..."[E-Mail Updated 01OCT2013 | E-Mail Updated 23JUN2000 | 15DEC97]

MICK, AZ2 DOUG DOUG1428@NETZERO.NET "...I WAS IN VP-44 FROM 1986-1990. MADE THE 1986-1987 NAS Keflavik, Iceland, THE 1988 NS Rota, Spain/LAJES (BASE SOFTBALL CHAMPS) AND THE 1989-1990 NAS Keflavik, Iceland DEPLOYMENTS. CURRENTLY I AM A BRANCH MANAGER OF A DISTRUBITION CO. I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF MY OLD Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 14JAN2001 | 11MAY98]

MICKLE, Larry R. eaglesnest@insightbb.com "...I flew as a radio operator on P5M-2 in VP-44 NAS Norfolk, Virginia 1955-57. Many trips to NAS Bermuda for Navigation Flights. Flew non-stop to lake just outside Ok City, Ok for world air show 1956 at Will Rogers Field. Retired from USAF 7-78 E-7. Good memories about my Navy and AF career..." [Updated E-Mail/BIO 16MAY2005 | 28MAR99]

MILLER, AO2 Stanley A. stan@designcreatorllc.com "...I served with VP-44 (09/1977-12/1980) with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1979) and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan (1980)..." [24DEC2013]

MILLS, ALBERT "AB" Retired ABMILLS@worldnet.att.net "...Served in VP-48 Jul 58 - JUL 62. Flew as Navigator in Crew 2, Co-Pilot Crew 11 and as PPC in Crew 13 and as Shot Gun for C.O. CDR Rae P. Madson. U. S. Naval Academy Jul 62 -Jul 65 Freshman Chemistry Instructor. After the RAG served in VP-44 as Training and Maintenance Officer Nov 65 -Nov 67. PPC of Crew 7 with Pete Baxter as TACCO, Dick Fitzgerald as Co-Pilot, Campo as Navigator and some of the best equipment operators in the U. S. Navy. We were feared by all underwater sailors. After Communications School served aboard USS KITTY HAWK MAY 68- JUL 70. Detailed Nugget Aviators from Jul 70 - Apr 72. XO/CO VT-29 Apr 72-Apr 74. Chief Staff Officer Recruiting Area Seven Apr 74- Apr 76. CO Navy Recruiting District Dallas Apr 76 - Jan 78. 1 Jan 78 transferred to retired list. After retirement was the General Sales Manager of the Cadillac store in Fort Worth, Tx. for 18 years. Retired 1 Jan 1996. Now I play golf and fish. Wife Jan and I travel in the USA. We have a Lake place on the Oklahoma side of Lake Texoma..." [03SEP2001]

MILLER, Terry miller1110@aol.com "...VP-44 (74-77), USNA (77-80), PEP Canada (80-83), USS Nimitz (83-85), VP-23 (85-88), USTRANSCOM (88-93), Air Mobility Command (93-95), retired government contractor..." [19JUN98]

MINNERLY, Bob rwmin@centurytel.net "...Served in VP-44 from March 1958 to August 1962 as squadron legal officer, PIO, Crews 4 and 5, primarily, in P5M's and P2V's, deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily '61-62. Just spent another great Reunion at Fredericksburg, TX. with old friends and made new ones. Would encourage former '44s to attend next one in Indianapolis, IN. in 2007. We had squadron mates that spanned most of the history of the squadron. Saddened by loss of Thune, O'Leary, Lloyd this year. Thanks for the good times, squadron mates..." [11JUN2005]

MINOR, Phil Retired phil@minorsprinting.com "...I was in VP-44 from 1970-1973. I became a TAR in 1974 and did three tours with VP-62. I retired in June of '89 from VP-62..." WebSite: http://www.minorsprinting.com/ [URL Added 06JAN2002 | E-Mail Updated 16OCT99 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 15FEB99 | 19OCT97]

MITCHELL, ADC(AW/NAC) Bill Retired mitchbj@adelphia.net "...I was stationed at NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1975 to 1994. I served with VP-23 from 1975 to 1979 and 1988 to 2001, VP-44 from 1980 to 1988 (Flight Engineer) and NAS Brunswick, Maine from 2001 to 2004. Looking for Shipmates from both squadrons I served with..." [E-Mail Updated 06FEB2006 | 29AUG2005]

MITCHELL, AM2 Rodney F. rfmitchell56@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1956-1959) I especially liked the fiy-a-ways to San Juan, PR, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Nassau, NAS Key West, Florida, NAS Jacksonville, Florida, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, NAS Bermuda and NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [17JUN2016]

MONETTE, ADRC Bob Retired bmonette2@gmail.com "...I served with VP-42 (01/1959-1962) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California with a deployment to NS Sangley Point, Philippines, AEWTRAULANT (1962-1964) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VX-6 (1964-1967), MCAS Yuma, AZ (1967-1969), Air Operations at NS Sangley Point, Philippines and VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. I retired in 1974..." [05MAR2014]

MONROE, Dave "SuperDave" dmonroe@atlantic.net "...I was in VP-44 from 1989 - decommissioning. Then I was tranferred to VP-23. I was with VP-23 from 1991 - 1995 (Operation Desert Storm!!!). I would like to get in touch with my fellow AW's if you see this. I would like recognize a person whom made a huge impact on my career not only as a AW but as a individual. AWC or AWCS Brogden if your out there Hail to you..."

MORAN, CAPTAIN William F. Shipmate Pix http://www.cprfp.navy.mil/BioCommodore.asp "...Captain William F. Moran was born in Nyack, New York and raised just north of New York City in a small town called Walden where he attended Valley Central High School. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1981 earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in English. Captain Moran reported to VP-44 in NAS Brunswick, Maine in May 1982 where he served as an Instructor Pilot, Educational Services Officer, Power Plants Branch Officer and Pilot Training Officer. After deployments of NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, he reported to VP-30 in March 1986 for Instructor Duty. At VP-30, Captain Moran served as the Fleet Projects Officer and Pilot Training Officer, before taking orders to Commander Carrier Group SIX (CCG-6), Mayport, Florida as Flag Lieutenant. While on the Staff, he qualified as a Battle Group Tactical Watch Officer and completed a Mediterranean deployment aboard USS FORESTALL (CV-59) and a subsequent deployment to the Caribbean aboard numerous cruisers as part of the first deployment Staff in support of Counter Narcotics Operations (CTG-4.1). In January 1991, Captain Moran reported to CPW-11, NAS Jacksonville, Florida to serve as the Safety Officer and Assistant Maintenance Officer. In the summer of 1992, he reported to VP-45 for his Department Head tour deploying to NAS Keflavik, Iceland / NAS Sigonella, Sicily and serving as Safety/NATOPS and Operations Officer. In the spring of 1994, Captain Moran reported to VP-30 to assume duties as the Senior AIRLANT Evaluator and Model Manager for Maritime Patrol Aviation. Captain Moran reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington DC in May 1995 to begin a two year tour as Assistant Washington Placement Officer before assuming duties as the Assistant Flag Detailer for a third and final year of duty at BUPERS. In May 1998, Captain Moran reported to VP-46 as Executive Officer and immediately deployed with the squadron to NAF Misawa, Japan / NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. As Commanding Officer, he led the squadron on a deployment to NSF Diego Garcia, Masirah, Oman, and NSA Bahrain that included numerous detachments throughout FIFTH and SEVENTH Fleets. The squadron was recognized for its support for contingency operations, and its work with SLAM and Maverick Missile systems, mission planning, target folders and Maritime Interdiction Operations. Captain Moran served as Deputy Executive Assistant and Executive Assistant to Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Camp Smith, Hawaii from July 2000 to July 2003, before returning to VP-30 for refresher training and follow-on duty as CPRW-2. His personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards) and Navy Commendation Medal (five awards)..." [20APR2005]

UPDATE "...The Senate confirmed Adm. Bill Moran to serve as the next Chief of Naval Operations sometime later this summer..." Contributed by CARROLL, AMEC Dennis P. Retired p3fe418yrs@gmail.com [23JUN2019]

MORRIS, Michael R. awcr@budsters.com "...SS3 with VP-44 (75-79) CAC-9, CAC-11 "Lucky Eleven", CAC-12 "Magalis' Even Dozen"/NATOPS SS3, AWA-1 Instructor in NAS Memphis, Tennessee (79-82), ASWOC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (82-86), NETPMSA RTM/Exam Writer (Sorry guys) (86-90), TSC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal (90-93) "We closed the door, turned out the lights and put out the goat", TSC/MOCC Coordinators Office NAS Brunswick, Maine (93-95), Retired as AWC in 95. I miss those days of VP-44, we had a mission, we had a purpose and we did the job. On quiet days, I think back to those times and remember the wonderful people, the parties, the missions, and for a moment relive my youth. We were bold and full of piss and vinegar! Would love to here from anyone in VP-44 (75-79)!..." [15MAR99]

MULLEN, Joe joemullen1@comcast.net "...I was in VP-44 around 1950-1953. I was crew on the PBM and the first P5M's as an AO. Haven't really kept involved with the past but I can say that my times with VP-44 were very enjoyable and I do remember the NAS Bermuda runs..." [E-Mail Updated 27APR2002 | E-Mail Updated 16APR2002 | 13JAN98]

Memorial Picture "...MULLOY, RADM Paul Joseph...My father, RADM Paul J. Mulloy, USN (ret), passed away September 24, 2016. SEE: RADM Paul Joseph Mulloy Obituary PDF. His VP tours included: VP-26, VP-44 and VP-18. BTW, when my father was Commander, Patrol Wings Atlantic (COMPATWINGSLANT) and was responsible for bringing Jay R. Beasley back into the VP community and was with Jay R. Beasley during Jay’s 25,000th landing..." Contributed by MULLOY, CDR Stephen "Steve" Retired steve.mulloy@outlook.com [30MAR2023]

MUNSCH, Kirk kmunsch@lsipax.com "...AW2 1980 - 1983..."

MURPHY, Roy jlmurphy7@gmail.com "...I served with VXN-8, from 1968 to 1971 (Super-Connies), VP-44from 1973 to 1976, VX-1 from 1977 to 1980, VP-4 from 1980 to 1982, Naval Air Development Center from 1988 to 1991 and retired in 1994. Playing the support contractor game to NAVAIR ever since, not as much fun, but it pays the bills..." [E-Mail Updated 25SEP2009 | 03AUG99]


NATOLI, Frank J. francisnat@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (1952-1953) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia..." [22SEP2015]

NEE, AW1 Douglas P. Sr. Retired westernlobster@hotmail.com "...I was stationed in NAS Brunswick, Maine from 1978 thru 1994 when I retired. I served with VP-10 from 1978-1984, Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) from 1985-1988, VP-44 from 1988 till Disestablishment, VP-23 till 1992, and Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) when I retired in December 1994. Just had to sign in and pass this info along, I am alive and well. I will contact those Shipmates via e-mail that were familiar in the listing. If anyone knows a Bill Smith, he was a Flight Engineer who served in VP-23 during Desert Storm, he was also in VP-8 prior to VP-23, pass along my e-mail so I can contact him. Oh and Greg Brown, if you visit this site before I contact you, What's happening Bro? Since retiring I've moved more times than when I was in. We're in the hills of West Virginia outside Morgantown so drop a line and say Hi!..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 21JUL2006 | 22JAN2003 | 05MAR99]

NEPHEW, Ralph (Maynard G) rsnephew@ameritech.net "...I served with VP-44 from January 1960 till October 1963. I worked out of the Metal Shop. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [31DEC2005]

NESS, AT3 Ronald ronald_ness@hotmail.com "...Been searching for crewmates of VP-44 NAS Norfolk, Virginia during tour of 1953-57, especially those on my crew of CC-10..." [21MAR2002]

NEUMANN, AMH2 Rod ndynomite1@verizon.net "...I served with VP-44 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1957 to 1960. We flew the P5M's. My rank was 2nd Class Hydraulic Mechanic drawing 1st Class pro-pay..." [23MAY2009]

NOCE, Bob Shipmate Pix Circa 1967 Dogs1@msn.com "...I was a pilot in VP-5 in SP2e's and P-3Aa from Dec 1965-Dec 1968; VP-31 insructor pilot and standardization pilot, VP-31 from Dec 1968 to Dec 1971; Exchange pilot with RCAF (Argus) from Jan 72-June 74; T-34 Instructor pilot (VT-5) at Saufley from July 1974-Mar 1976; VP-44 Department Head tour 1976-1978; CPWL Weapons Training Officer 1979-1980; XO and CO VP-11 1981-1982; Recruiting CO and Area Commander 1985-1991; retired in 1992..."

NOVAK, CAPTAIN Bob bnovak3478@gmail.com "...I served with VP-24 (February 1981 to February 1984), VX-1 (1988 to 1990), VP-44 (1990 to 1991), VP-26 (1991 to 1992) and NAVAIR and the test world since 1992. I will be closing out on 30 years in Naval Aviation -- retire 01 JUL 08. It has been a great ride..." [15APR2008]

NOVAK, AOC(AW/NAC) Tony Retired tat2dancer@charter.net "...I made that transition to CIVLANTFLEET In October of 2002. I served with NAS Patuxent River, Maryland in 1982, then moved to NAS Brunswick, Maine and stayed for almost 16 years. Served VP-44 with the "GOOCH" and to many others to name. Some real good times were had back in those days. Nothing like flying out of NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal in high winds, or pulling back a Gin and Coz at Bennies. My favorite stop was the tattoo shop in NS Rota, Spain. I left VP-44 just prior to its disestablishment and went down the hall in Hanger 5 to VP-10. What can I say, AOCS Joe Oswald made me a deal I couldn't refuse. What a tour that was. Made Chief, and worked Maint Control. I learned the finer arts of Maint Control from Jerry Lutz. Thanks Bud. Abe Villerial and so many others in the CPO mess, man those were some good times. After a few deployments, it was time for a little shore Duty, so I took orders to CPW-5. Had a pretty good time there also and worked with some great folks, way to many to list. After CPW-5, I moved to the West Coast to VP-1. If I only knew how much fun the deployments were on the West side, I would have went out there allot sooner. I worked for Master Chief Pat Blewitt, what a great deployment to Dodge. Doha/NSA Bahrain/Oman - so many places and so many good people. I have to say, after I retired last year, I sure have missed it. I was lucky to have served 20 years in the VP Navy as an Ordnance Chief. Good luck and God bless to all of you who still serve. I hope to hear from some of you..." [BIO Updated 19DEC2003 | BIO Updated 26JUN2002 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 21MAR2002 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 22NOV2000 | 26MAR98]

NUNLEY, AMCS(AW) / NCCS(AW) Randy Retired rnunley@mpwservices.com "...I served with VP-44 as Flight Engineer on CAC-1, from November 1981 to November 1984. Three deployments and advancement into the Chief's family. Grounded in 1989 (medical) Converted to NCCS(AW) retired in November 1994. I now reside in Richmond, KY. Welcome hearing from all old Shipmates far and near..." [19NOV2003]

NYE, Gina gina-n@snet.net "...I served with VP-44 (FE) from 1977 to 1979..." [01MAR2004]


O'CONNOR, Frank R. dianne@mail.ameritel.net "...I was in VP-48 and VP-44, late 50's and early 60's. I would like to hear from any of my old Shipmates. A whole lot has happened since those fun day's..." [02AUG98]

O'NEAL, AMS2 Jeanette addy-odien@bootheel.net "...I served with VP-44 during NS Rota, Spain dep. '85-then Reserve....Millington, TN. Would like to hear from old "shippies." Now living in S.E. Missouri..." [20DEC98]

O'LAUGHLIN, ADC(AP) Francis M. "Red" Retired FMOL2@AOL.COM "...I fail to see where coverage of VP-44 during the late 1940's when the squadron was based at NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone. I was attached to this squadron flying PBM-5 type aircraft. VP-44 was formerly a PBY squadron (VP-43) in FAW-4 during the late 1930's and was split off as VP-44 in the Pacific during WWII. VP-44 was later reformed during the Korea Crisis and was designated as VP-204; then VPMS-4; then in 1947 became VP-44. VP-40 (old VP-74/VP-56) was next hangar in NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone. VP-3 one of the first P2V squadrons took up residence across from us in the same hangar. I departed in 1949 for NAS Operations, NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I lost track of VP-44 after that..." [27JAN2001]

OPPENHEIMER, CAPTAIN James L. Retired jcaptain@netins.net "...I served with VP44 from March 1942 until I was ordered to NATTC at Memphis (Millington), Tennessee..." [28FEB99]

ORME, CAPTAIN Doug Retired captorme@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1960-1964. Flew P-5M, P2V, P3V, & P-3A aircraft. Was copilot on Crews 10, 9 and 2 then PPC of Crew 11. Completed post grad at the DOD spy school in Washington DC and then served on the J-2 staff at NORAD, Colorado Springs. Transfered to USNR in 1969. Flew SP2H's and P-3's at NAS Glenview, Illinois. Commanded VP-90 from 1976-1978. Transfered to Ready Reserve and then promoted to Captain in 1980. United Airlines Pilot from 1968-1998. Now retired and flying a V-Tail. VP-44 friendships and experiences are some of my best memories..." [11SEP2006]

OSWALD, Tommy "Ozzie" TNTozzie3@aol.com "...I was with VP-44 from 1981 to 1984. Everybody called me "ozzie". I worked in the power plant shop for a while and then in the line shack. I am really interested in hearing from some of my old Shipmates. I can honestly say that serving in the VP Navy changed my life for the better. What a great time we all had and what a great bunch of Shipmates. Golden Pelicans work hard and play hard..." [05AUG2001]

OVERMAN, William J. Jr. "Jack" fourbranch@earthlink.net "...I served with ZP-1 (1956-1957) at NAS Elizabeth City, NC (Blimps), VP-44 (1957-1960), VP-30 (Establishment) Det "A" at NAS Norfolk, Virginia (RAG Detachment for the P5M (SP5A/B), VT-6 at NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida, Chief of NAval Air BAsic TRAining (CNABATRA), VP-31 (1964) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California for retraining in the P5, VP-47 (1964-1967) flying as PPC of Crew-9. We were the first crew to achieved "Alpha" Status following transition to the P-3A Deltic configuration..." [E-Mail Updated 05FEB2013 | 05AUG98]


PAINTER, E. C. Elmerpainterjr@aol.com "...I was in VP-44 when the P5Ms were first delivered to the fleet and was one of the first to inspect the seaplanes. I have been in contact with AD3 Sam Travis who is now a retired Math professor living in Boone, NC and I worked at General Electric for a while with AO3 Dudley Shepherd in Rome, Georgia where he is retired from GE. I am a retired Treasury Enforcement Agent. I enjoyed the Shipmates and the work during my tour in CC VP-44..." [01JAN2000]

PATTON, AE Jerry L. jlpatton@prodigy.net "...I EOD'd at VP-44 at NAS in March 1961 from AE "A" school at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Almost immediately I was sent to FAETULANT and was sent to VP-30 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida for training as an AC. Shortly after returning to NAS Norfolk, Virginia VP-44 was getting rid of the P5M's for the P2V-5's. I was the AE for LM-11 in the P2's and was on the NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment. Upon moving the squadron from NAS Norfolk, Virginia to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland I was the AE on LM-10 flying with LT Shoemeyer, LT Thune, LT Estes, Ltjg Schugg, F/E John Warren, 2nd Mech Miller, AT's John Atkins, Dan Pennington, T J Woodward, Klecz and radioman Steve Gardner, and A) Bob Mackey. I also served for a while on Capt Serrell's Crew 1 for a period of time. While on duty in NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada I received notice I was getting a month and 4 day early out for the convience of the gov't and left VP-44 in May 1964 as well as the USN. I enjoyed my time with VP-44 and would do it all over again. After leaving VP-44 I entered Western Carolina University and following my graduation joined the US Border Patrol and spent the next 30 years with the US Imm & Natz Svc as a Border Patrol agent and a criminal investigator. I hope to see a lot of old Shipmates at the VP-44 Reunion in Datona, FL in Aug 2001..." [19APR2001]

PELTER, Larry lpelter@alltel.net "...I served with VP-44, 1964-1967. ASW Tech 2nd Class aboard LM4, LM8, LM12?... NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada, NAS Bermuda, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NS Roosevelt Roads, PR, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, Thule Greenland (Ice berg patrol)..." [28FEB2000]

PENCE, AT1 KARL VAN kvp1961@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-17 from March 1994 to January 1995, when they decomm'ed (got orders there from VP-22). I thought they were joking saying that VP-17 was going to be decomm'ed too. VP-17 was and still is the best VP squadron that I've been in. I have served with VP-30, VP-44, VP-30, VP-22, VP-17, VP-9 (TAD), VP-47, VP-30, and currently with VP-45. Lost touch with alot of good people. If anyone knows me, or remembers me, lets chat..." [20JAN2001]

PETERSON, CDR Roy "Pete" Retired rptrsn@yahoo.com "...I enlisted in 1968. I earned my AC wings at NAS Lemoore, California as a helicopter rescue crewman, fly rescue mission in the Sierra Nevada mountains. After two years of shore duty, I received orders to VP-11 as an AT-2. I went through VP-30 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland trained as in IFT, but when I arrived at the squadron I found out that if I wanted to fly I have to be a radioman. No problem let me fly. I made the short notice deploy to WesPac with VP-11 July-Nov 1972 operating from NAS Cubi Point, Philippines and U-Tapao Royal Thailand Air Force Base, Thailand. After a, very short stint as a civilian, I returned to active duty and changed my rate to AW. After AW "A" school and another pass throught the RAG, I reported to VP-44. Flying the oldest P-3A as SS2 then SS1 I made two deployment NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal and NAS Bermuda between 1974-1977 making AW1 along the way. I followed that tour with two years at TSC NAS Sigonella, Sicily, where I really learned acoustic analyis from some great AW's. AW1 Mike Stokes, AWC Al Cox, AWC Mike Cantor and AWC Mel Watkin a great acoustic analyist and one of the best leaders I had in my naval career. En route to shore duty at Naval Weapons Test Squadron (WST) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland by way of VP-30 I was selected for AWC and was intiated in 1979. A couple of weeks later, I found out I'd been select for an a commission as an Aviation Operations LDO Ensign. My shore duty was cut short and after knife and fork school, I to the USS Ranger, in NS Subic Bay, Philippines for an 8 month deployment to the Indian Ocean. Working in the ASW Module a was promoted to LT(jg) on my second deployment to the Indian Ocean. After 2 years 2 months and 1 day I departed USS Ranger to NAVAVSCHCOM NAS Pensacola, Florida for training as a Naval Flight Officer. VP-10 at NATU Mather Airforce Base, VP-31 and I found myself in Hawaii as an LT NavCom in VP-1, CAC-6. Under the leadership of LT Frank Dombrowski, I quickly qualified as a TC. After a split deployment to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan / NAF Misawa, Japan I earned my Mission Commander designation and a JO crew. Select for the College Degree Program (CDP), with the help of the XO CDR Zambernardi, I made the very hard decision to forgo another VP-1 deployment and took orders to New Hampshire College. Completeing my BS degree in 9 months, transferred to Commander Patrol Wings Atlantic (CPWL) where I was the Aircrew Training Officer. A great job in a great location 1987-1991. From there it was time for my fourth patrol squadron. After my 5th time through the RAG, I reported to VP-8 as a LCDR Department Head. Two deployments to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR and all the det sites, I stretched this tour as long as I could, knowing that as an AW/LDO this was my last active duty squadron. It was a good tour (Tiger, Tiger) and I flew with them from Oct 1991 until June 1995, picking up my P-3 5000 hour pin along the way. Shore duty followed as the Director of Training, Fleet Aviation Specialized Training Group Atlantic (FASO). It was a very interesting job with schools in NAS Brunswick, Maine, NAS Jacksonville, Florida, Mayport, plus all the Marine air stations, not to mention SERE. We worked hard to keep up with all the changes in tmissions, new technology and the impacts on flight crew training. My last tour 1999-2002 was as XO of NAS Souda Bay, Crete, Greece where I retired with over 5500 hours in the P-3 and over 33 years active service. It was a great career. At my retirement ceremony, I was piped ashore then back aboard our 42' sloop Brilliant, where my bride Stephanie spent 5 years cruising the Med, crossing the Atlantic in 2006, the Caribbean, then the US East Coast until last year when we moved ashore in Florida..." [26MAY2015]

PICARD, AE1(AW/NAC) Jay C. jay.picard@navy.mil "...I served with VP-30, VP-44 and VP-45. I served in the Navy from August 1976 to December 1993 and was awarded the National Defense Medal, Navy Expiditionary Medal and the Navy Good Conduct Award with 3 Bronze stars. I enjoyed being an AE and fixing the hard gripes on aircraft and training my junior troops. I also enjoyed the people with a few exceptions, no real regrets and still in civil service 34 years as an AE and loving it. To all AE's "keep 'em flying" may God bless all that serve and will serve. Just remember this: "Treat folks the way you want to be treated" and "Be fair in all your judgments" and " keep "Jesus Christ" first in your life and HE wil never forsake or leave you. You only have this life and have Fun!"..." [14MAY2010]

PIPKIN, AXAN John M. "BJ" johnpetersprings@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-50 (1968-1973) and VP-44 (1976-1979). I flew with VP-50 Crew-2 (LCDR Dow, LT Johnson, LT(jg) Eastman, LT(jg) Arbuckle, ATN3 McDouglall, ATN3 Titsworth, AX1 Lowe, AO3 Sammons, AMS1 Turnbull and ADRAN Hudson). Does anyone remember Miro John Zeba? He actually got fined for getting an afro in Bermuda!..." [E-Mail Updated 11SEP2012 | 25JUL2005]

POMPEO, Joe Retired jhpompeo@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 (1958-1960) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia, VP-42 (1963-1967) at NAS North Island, San Diego, California and NAS Whidbey Island, Washington with a WesPac in 1964, AE "A" School (Instructor), VAW-111 (1967-1969) with Detachments aboard the USS Oriskany (CVA-34), VF-121 at NAS Miramar and retired in 1978. I am now living in Hot Springs, AR. My wife, Lynnee, passed away in 2011. Our 6 kids are all doing well. Our oldest son, Captain Martin L. Pompeo, is currently Commodore, Commander Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) ONE. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 27MAY2012 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 29MAR2010 | 22OCT99]

Memorial Picture "...PORTER, LCDR Kennard...I am looking for anyone who may have known my dad LCDR Kennard Porter. At the age of 17 Ken enlisted as a Seaman Recruit in United States Navy, and after a 30 year career retired at the rank of LCDR, a true Mustang. During his military career Ken served on numerous aircraft carries including USS Mindoro, USS Wright, USS Leyte, USS Midway and the USS Independence; saw duty stations including NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, NAS Bermuda, NAS Sanford, Florida, NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and NAS Brunswick, Maine. At the age of 34 Ken accepted his commission as an Ensign and became the oldest flight student to attend Naval Flight Officer training. Ken began a distinguished flying career as the Navigator/Tactical Coordinator assigned to VP-44 stationed at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland flying P-3 Orion ASW aircraft with deployments to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada and the NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. After fulfilling his flight commitments, Ken transferred to Naval Aviation Schools Command as a navigation/sea survival instructor and ended his 30 year career assigned to TRARON TEN (VT-10) NAS Pensacola, Florida - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/pensacolanewsjournal/obituary.aspx?pid=162255538#sthash.ZFdP0LNI.dpuf. Should you know amyone who may have memories of daddy...pleae feel free to email! Most Sincerely with God' blessings..." Contributed by Karen Porter Airaghi airaghi.karen@yahoo.com [30MAY2017]

POSEY, CDR P. Steven http://www.naspensacola.navy.mil/trawing6/vt4/xo.html "...Commander Posey, a native of Fayetteville, Arkansas, was commissioned in April 1985 through the Aviation Officer Candidate program in Pensacola, Florida. He has a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Arkansas, an M.S. in Information Systems from Naval Postgraduate School, and a Naval War College Diploma. Following his Primary training in Pensacola, he went on to receive his Naval Flight Officer wings in April 1986 from Naval Air Training Unit at Mather AFB, Sacramento, California. After completing his initial Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) training at VP-30 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida he reported to the "Golden Pelicans " of VP-44, located in NAS Brunswick, Maine in September 1986. His billets included Assistant CMS Officer, Electronic Branch Officer, Tactics Officer, and AW Division Officer. He was qualified as an ASW Navigator/Communicator (NAVCOM), Tactical Coordinator (TACCO), Mission Commander and Instructor NAVCOM and TACCO. He made two deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and a split sight deployment to NS Rota, Spain and NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. Following his first operational tour, he reported as a student at the Naval Postgraduate School in June 1990 were he received a Masters of Science Degree in Information Systems. In June 1992, he reported aboard USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71) home ported in Norfolk, Virginia where he served as the V-2 Training Officer, Bow Catapults Branch Officer, and Fire Watch Division Officer. He qualified as a Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer and made a Mediterranean/Red Sea deployment in support of Operations DENY FLIGHT, PROVIDE PROMISE, and SOUTHERN WATCH. In April 1994, he reported as an FRS instructor to VP-30 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. His jobs included Assistant Maintenance Officer and Administrative Officer. He was qualified as an FRS ASW Navigator/Communicator and Tactical Coordinator Instructor. In August 1996, he reported to the world famous "Fighting Tigers" of VP-8 in NAS Brunswick, Maine. His jobs included Assistant Training Officer, Tactics Officer, CTG 67.1 Operations Officer, and Squadron Operations Officer. He made a Mediterranean deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily and supported Operations DECISIVE ENDEAVER/DELIBERATE GUARD and SILVER WAKE. In July 1998, he reported to the Navy Personnel Command, Millington, Tennessee where he served initially as the Branch Head, Officer Performance Branch (PERS-834), and then the Director, Personnel Performance, Security, and Separations Division (PERS-83). While there, he also completed the Naval War College Non-Resident Seminar Program and earned a Naval War College Diploma. Following his "BUPERS" tour, Commander Posey reported as a student to the Joint Forces Staff College in Norfolk, Virginia, were he completed the Joint and Combined Warfighting Course. He left Norfolk and arrived at NAS Pensacola, Florida with his current orders as the Executive Officer of the "Warbucks" of VR-4. Commander Posey has over 2400 flight hours. His personnel awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corp Commendation Medal (3), Navy Achievement Medal and various unit and campaign awards..." [03JUL2003]

POTTHOFF, Gerald Mitchell "Potsie" gmpotsie@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-44 70/73, AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine 74/75, VP-16 76/81, VP-30 82/85 & SeaOpDet NAS Jacksonville, Florida serving USS Forrestal CV-59 until retiring Aug '89. I am currently working in Saudi Arabia teaching C-130's. I am also on Yahoo & AOL instant messenger, screen name "gmpotsie." I will reply to all received enquiries. Later..." [E-Mail Updated 17MAY2004 | 14OCT99]

POWELL, Bill bilste@swbell.net "...I was in VP-44 from August 1971 til Jun 1974. I was an AE2 when I got out. I worked in the Electric Shop. I would like to hear from any Shipmates. Especially interested when and if VP-44 will have a Reunion..." [26FEB98]

POWELL, Dan dpowell21@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 on CAC-4 from 1982-1985. Great squadron, great memories! Would love to hear from fomer Shipmates (this time frame)..." [E-Mail Updated 19JAN2007 | E-Mail Updated 24JAN2004 | 26MAY98]

PRENTICE, CAPTAIN Peter Retired webster@ameritel.net "...Served with VP-44 9/81 to 9/83 with deployments to NS Rota, Spain, Azores and NAS Bermuda and a Drug interdiction mission to Puerto Rico. Lve to here from any of my Shipmates..." [24OCT98]

PRICE, Charles A. dingmancap@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 from August 1962 to October 1963. Had many great times with the Line Crew. Does any know if the Hickory House or the Gay 90's are still open in Patuxent River, Maryland?..." [21DEC2005]

PRINSEN, ATCS(AW) Karl "Skip" Retired w7pn@rtconnect.net "...I served with VP-49 (1961 to 1964), VP-30 (1964 to 1967), VP-44 (1967 to 1970), NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee AFTA School (1970 to 1974), VAW-113 (1975 to 1978), NAMTRA 1098 & 1013 (1978 to 1981), VF-213 (1981 to 1985), COMFITAEWWINGSPAC (1985 to 1988) a retired in June 1988. I miss the old days and have had many changes in my life. I finished my Masters Degree and am looking for a job that reflects my recent training..." [E-Mail Updated 16APR2009 | BIO and E-Mail Updated 30NOV98 | 24AUG98]


RADLINSKY, Thomas tradlinsky@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (08/1968-06/1969) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland with a deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland..." [02JUN2017]

RAGSDALE, AO1 Dave chillysurf@hotmail.com "...It's good to see alot of familiar names out there. I was in VP-10 as an IFO from 82-86 Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) from 86-88, VP-44 fm 88-91, NALO NAS New Orleans, Louisiana 91-94, VP-47 from 94-96, and now I'm back in VP-10 as an Flt Eng. Drop me a line..." [11APR98]

REED, AOC Marcus Retired MReed76841@aol.com "...I'm a long timer 1968 to 1971 and then 1975 to 1979. I was and AO2 through AOC with the (VP-44) Pelicans. I still have the Crew Pelican hanging in The Bar. I'll go through my flight bag and send a few "old Photo's" and articles I still have. It's good to see Our Place on the net. I saw Mike Kane in Brunswick last summer at a car meet and stayed with the Carl and Darlene Marcinak. I see quite a few Shipmates each year when I visit. I also saw AOC Larry Robinson who's retired and running the Club and Ed Lord who was visiting from Vegas. Anyone ever hear from LCDR Jim and Marty Larsen VP-44 Pilot who went to some staff command near Barbers Point. I was also in VP-30 from 1971 to 1975. I retired off the Big John CV 67 as the LCPO of G-3 Bomb and Missile Division after 1983 Med-Cruise off the coast of Beriut..." [05JAN98]

RICHTER, AE2 Laurence A. therichtersfamily@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1973-1976) with deployments to NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal and NAS Bermuda. I now live in Cocoa, Florida..." [31DEC2016]

RIDLE, CAP(AA) Robert (Bob) c/o His Son Robert L. (Bob) Ridle bobridle@eatel.net "...Sons of Robert (Bob) Ridle CAP(AA) who flew with VP-44 from SEPT. 42 thru Nov. 42 then with VP-54 from Nov. 42 thru Dec 43. He later flew the NAS Adak, Alaska run and Berlin Airlift then helicopters in Korea. Would like any info on him and his units-he won the DFC, Air medal, etc. but I have no info on how or where. 1-504-622-4919..." [07MAR98]

ROBERTS, Anthony J. Sr. T-MAN5@prodigy.net "...Happy to have a way of contacting old Shipmates and to remember the good old days. I was stationed at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, January 1962-July 1967. On my tour I was affiliated with NAS AMD, structures(AMS) June '62 -Jan 64 I was then transferred to VP-44, Jan '64-July67. Here I was deployed to NAS Bermuda, NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. I am interested in getting in touch with any Shipmates from the AMS shop and if possible I would like to get in touch with a friend who was attached to VR-1 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. His name is Wade Calhoun,AD3 last contact he was re-enlisting in July 67..." [17MAR99]

ROBINSON, Arthur "Rock" mertqq@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1983 to 1985. What's up Ed, Rick, Ted, Mike, Stew, Griffin, Crumbley, Travis, Javier and Russ? I hope to hear from you all..." [08AUG2009]

ROBY, LT Forrest A. c/o His Nephew Richard W. Bingham RWBing1@msn.com "...(VP-44) NAS Midway Island WW2. Searching for anyone that knew uncle, LT. Forrest A. Roby, Pilot of PBY-5. Radioman was Joel Stovall. He (Lt Roby) is buried at Arlington. Thanks for any info..." [08OCT2001]

ROMEO, AE2 Frank frankp51f@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 as a AE2 flew on crew as radio. Flew P5M and P2V'S from 1959 to 1962. Would enjoy finding old Shipmates and renewing old friendships..." [20NOV2007]

ROSE, AW2 Jim rosefamily88@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 (SS3) from 1982 to 1986. I would like to hear from former (especially CAC-1) Shipmates..." [E-MAIL Updated 28JAN2007 | 07MAR98]

ROSENBERG, Leo lechro@yahoo.com "...My VP tours were in VP-16, NAS Jacksonville, Florida 1959-1963, VP-6, NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii 1967-1969, VP-44, NAS Brunswick 1974-1977 and CPW-11, NAS JAX 1977-1980. I would enjoy hearing from some of my old Shipmates...I served in ATU-614, Hutchinson, Kansas. I worked in the Elecric shop, working on P2V-4,s. As a civilian I have worked the last fifteen years on the staff of Commander, Sea Control Wing, Atlantic at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida and now NAS Jacksonville, Florida" [BIO Updated 25APR2000 | 24AUG98]

RUMPF, Charles crumpf@ford.com "...I was an AX2 and served in VP-44 from '78 to '82 working in the "tron shop" and I remember those four years as some of the best four..." [13AUG98]

RUSSELL, Dennis Wayne drussell@epcounty.com "...I served with VP-44 from June 1969 to January 1971 and VQ-4 from January 1971 to April 1971 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [25APR2006]

RUSSELL, AL3 Humphrey H. ah6lf@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from March 1951 till November 1953 flying in 4-2 and 11 boats in that order as an AL-3 fresh out of Millington. Would like to get the manifest of the Marlin that went down off Cape Henry in July 1953. Remember Pete Fiddler, Frank Wartell, "J.B." Green and I think another AL named Earnheart? Would like to see the names of some of the "Old Timers" in the guest book. By the way I volunteered for NGU-1 (Base Radio) due to abuse by the Dilbert Dunker during survival training..." [16SEP2002]


SAYRE, Edwin D. pbmpilot@home.com "...I was in VP-44 in NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone from July 1947 to October 1949. At that time we flew PBM Martin Mariners. We were there in Panama with VP-40 which also flew PBM aircraft and VP-7 which had P2V aircraft. VP-44 and VP-40 shared airsea rescue duty in NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. We were there three months and then switched for three months. We all had a great time in VP-44 in Panama. We worked from 7:30AM to 1:30PM and relaxed the rest of the day. We had very nice quarters and a beautiful O Club. Our wives had very good shopping at the Ship Service and the Canal Zone stores. We did Seaplane Tender operations with the tender based in Panama, but I can't remember the name of it. I have some good pictures of the PBMs in Panama if you want them..." [07NOV2000]

SCARSON, ADC Larry Retired lscarson@aol.com "...I flew as a Flight Engineer in VP-23, VP-26, and VP-44. It is great to see all the work that has been presented, showing the VP Navy in all its glory. I would be interested in hearing from any of my old crewmates, specially from among the FE community..." [09JUN2001]

SCHNEIDER, Jim bigfoot@southeast.net "...I was a Golden Pelican (VP-44) from May 1982 to May 1985. I would love to hear from any of my old Shipmates..." [15SEP99]

SCHNEIDEWIND, AMM1 N. A. Retired Schneidmom@AOL.com "...A few squadrons I served in as Plane Captain and "second mech" VP-41, NAS Kodiak, Alaska, Beach Crew 1941, VP-23. Ford Island, Oahu 1942, PATSU 1-1 supporting VP-12, 1st "Black Cat" squadron, Guadalcanal, 1942-43, VPB-44, Green Island, 1943-45, VP-28 Itami, Japan NAHA, Okinawa, 1951-53, HTU-1 NAAS Ellyson Field, Florida 1953-55 VR-1 "Zebra" Division, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 1955-58 VW-11 NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada 1958-59..." [12JUN99]

SCHULLER, CDR Jeff Retired Jeffrey.Schuller-contractor@bmdo.osd.mil "...I flew the last P-3As in VP-44 and transitioned to P-3Cs from '76-'79. Following VP-44, I instructed in VP-30 from '79-'81, and last flew P-3C Update IIs in VP-8. I retired in '94 and now work for Computer Sciences Corporation on the National Missile Defense contract..." [04FEB2002]

SCHULTZ, AK John twohead02@ymail.com "...I served with VP-44 (06/1962-06/1964)..." [12AUG2012]

SCHWARTZ, Bill schwartz@ottawa.edu "...I served with VP-44 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland between 1963 and 1966. We deployed during that period to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada and NAS Bermuda..." [30DEC99]

SCOTT, Dennis M. (Scotty) dennymscott@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from March 1962 through March 1964. I was Radio Operator on Crew 12 then Crew 1. Had some great times and would like to talk/get together with old buddies. Am in contact with Andy Clopein (Crew 11), we would like to find Dick Minnihan, Al Funk, and Biff Horton. I am presently the owner/director of a real estate school in Bethlehem, PA http://www.scott-white.com/..." [BIO Updated 23FEB2004 | E-Mail Updated 04JAN2004 | 29OCT2000]

SCHUG, CAPTAIN Ronald J. Retired RonaldShor@AOL.COM "...I was in NAS Sigonella, Sicily on deployment with VP-44 at the time. Mike Lehay and I were roommates at NAS Jacksonville, Florida going through VP-30. He and I were the best of friends and he tossed me his copy of FATE IS THE HUNTER. I still remember almost every page. Never thought this could happen to US, but it did. We VP-44, wanted to go find them, but were locked in NAS Sigonella, Sicily. He was my best friend and SHIP-MATE. I still relate too those days as FATE is the hunter, and my hours in P5Ms, P2Vs (5's and 7's), P-3A, B, C and others at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and Elseware, remind me of that book. By the way I met Ernie Gahn in Anocortes, WS, before he passed away..." [26MAR2002]

SEARLES, LT(jg) Robert W. Retired bobtopsidesearles@gmail.com "...I served with VP squadrons for 27 years until I retire in 1970. I served with VP-2, VP-22, VP-23, VP-34, VP-44 and VP-45..." [E-Mail Updated 30OCT2010 | 29JUL2002]

Memorial Picture "...SEBRING, Jim...I recently discovered that Jim Sebring VP-44, 1952-55 had died December 22, 2006 in Sparks Glencoe, MD. Jim, Bill LeMaster and I had crewed together in 1955 on CC-10..." Contributed by STUPKA, Bill wrstupka@gate.net [18SEP2008]

SEBRING, James R. jrsebring@comcast.net "...I served with VP-44 from 1952 to 1955. Interested in hearing from former Shipmates..." [18OCT2003]

SECHLER, Bill jobillsler@aol.com "...VP-44, 61-64, flew P5, P-2 & P-3; VP-31 (Det A) original P-3 RAG at NAS Moffett Field, California, 64-67; VP-47, 73-75. >5,000 hrs P-3 pilot time..." [21MAR98]

SIEVE, ADRC AL Retired sievegm@AOL.com "...I flew with VP-44 in Crew 8 and Crew 4. According to my log book a LT Thomas was the PPC of Crew 8 in November 1965 and in February 1966. A LT Farrell was PPC of Crew 4. My lst 12.4 hr flight with VP-44 was with LT Farrell on April 6th, 1966. VP-44 total F/E time 280.8 hrs. Plus a total F/E time at flight testing P-3V-1 Buno 148883 Lac #4001 237.4 hrs. My total P-3 hrs are not great but I've seen my share..." [11FEB2002]

SEPUCH, Bill sepuch@msn.com "...Anyone out there served when we had P5M2 at Norfolk Va. I was there and I can rember more good times than bad times. I was first assigned to the airframes shop then later assigned as second mech on 11 Boat, plane capt name was Walters and the last time i saw him he was one of the supervisors at Nadep Norfolk which has closed down. We made alot of whiskey run to bermuda. The bay is full of unopenend big bottles of booz that we had through overboard because customs was waiting for us on the beach. I remember Matt Graff the God father of my kids.And Chief Dries the power plants chief. I think we still hold the worlds OPEN SEA TAXI RECORD ON ONE ENGINE when the right engine caught fire after leaving San Juan P.R.and we had to ditch in the water and taxi to Key West some 440 miles on one engine.Anyone out there wants to chat please write..."

SIMMONS, Herbert A. ott@peedeewold.net "...I served with VP-44 in 1953-56 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I would be interested in communicating with anyone that there at that time..." [04JUL99]

SIMPSON, AW1 Kenneth (Slick) Retired tnpair-a-dice@juno.com "...Started my VP Navy life in NAS Bermuda February 1976 by checking into VP-44. Joined CAC-3 as OJT SS-3 operator under the instruction of AW-2 Jim Frankin. Kept up my quals as acoustic operator and eventually became SS1 on Crew -6. Was stationed with VP-44 from February 1976 through March 1980. I was assigned to instructor duty NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee March 1980 to May 1983. Transfered to NAS Moffett Field, California VP-9 May 1983 through November 1988 assigned to FASO November 1988 until retirement March 1992. Would enjoy hearing from any Shipmates..." [13MAR2000]

SITTEN, CAPTAIN Fred Retired lfsitt@attworldnet.net "...I served in VP-44 as a TACCO from 1964-67 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Left active duty in 1969 and have lived in Pensacola, FL ever since. Give me a call... Fred (850)476-5920..." [22OCT98]

SKELTON, CMC Steve manpowernaples@hotmail.com "...I was last Command Master Chief of VP-44 when it was Disestablished. Would love to here from former VP-44 personnel..." [20JUL2006]

SMITH, RADM Phillip D. (P.D.) http://www.anahq.org/about/smith_bio.htm "...PRESIDENT, ASSOCIATION OF NAVAL AVIATION - P.D. Smith retired from the U.S. Navy as a Rear Admiral in July, 1993. During his Navy career he was a specialist in maritime patrol surveillance and anti-submarine warfare as well as political-military planning and strategy. He was a pilot, and commanded VP-44 NAS Brunswick, Maine, CPW-2 NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, and the Patrol Wings of the U. S. Pacific Fleet from NAS Moffett Field, California. In this latter capacity he was in charge of the 13 Navy maritime patrol squadrons stationed from California, through the Pacific region to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. From 1967-68 he was the Communications Officer aboard USS HANCOCK (CVA-19) and made two deployments to the Tonkin Gulf for operations in Viet Nam. Rear Admiral Smith was Director of Navy Strategy, Plans and Policy (OP-60) in the Pentagon from 1989 to 1991. His duties included representing the Navy's position to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His final active duty assignment was as the Director, Plans and Policy, U.S. Central Command. In that job he was involved in directing the draw-down of military forces in the Arabian Gulf Region following Operation Desert Storm. He traveled extensively in the Middle East and gained an insight into the customs and traditions of the region. (Chronology of duty assignments on page 2.) Following retirement, P.D. was a consultant to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company in Marietta, Georgia from 1993-97, advising on the sale of maritime patrol aircraft to the Gulf Region. He joined the company full-time in late 1997 as the Director of Near East Business Development, directing a staff responsible for marketing in Greece, Turkey, Jordan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. In 1999 he became the Director of Maritime Requirements for the company. In that capacity he was responsible for the sales and marketing of LMAC built aircraft to naval forces. His staff marketed the P-3 Orion and S-3 Viking aircraft world-wide and the C-130J Hercules to the US Marine Corps and the US Coast Guard. He retired from Lockheed Martin in December 2000. RADM Smith is a native of Huntington, West Virginia. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Duke University and a Master of Science Degree in International Affairs from the George Washington University. He attended both the Naval War College and the Navy School of Command and Staff. He is a life-time member of the Association of Naval Aviation and during 2000 served on the Board of Directors of the Atlanta Council, Navy League of the United States. P.D. is married to the former Mary Evelyn Spencer of Milton, Florida. They reside in Alexandria, Virginia and have three children and two grandchildren, all living in northern Florida..." [17APR2004]

SMITH, IS1 Todd chrys@viaduct.custom.net "...I was stationed at CPW-11 from 83 - 87, VP-44 from 89 - the decom, VP-10 till 92 and then bounced around for six months between VP-23 and Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) till I was medically discharged. I was in VP most of my ten years and loved every minute of it. I am looking for AW1 "Red" Roden and AW1 Tom Blankenship. I am also searching for LT Sarah Smith/VP-44 AIO, 1990. I would appreciate any information on the whereabouts of these Shipmates!!!..." [17SEP98]

SNIVELY, A. W. "Bud" (Deceased) c/o His Daughter Chaplain Sheri Snively, LCDR, USNR-R sherisn@jps.net "...My Dad (A. W. "Bud" Snively) was in VP-44 (PBYs) in time for the battle of Midway. Then went on to VP-101 as it left the Philippines going to Australia for patrol and harassing raids on Japanese held islands of the South Pacific. I'd love to hear from anyone who served with him. He passed away in 1999. I serve as a chaplain in the Naval Reserves and as the chaplain for the San Diego Silver Eagles Association (Naval enlisted pilots) wing..." [25JAN2002]

SPIKER, James (Jim) Jspikerfl18@MSN.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1959 to 1962 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. I will visit Norfolk again in September of this year (2002)..." [01JUL2002]

SPIKER, James H Spiker@cde.com "...I served with VP-44 in NAS Norfolk, Virginia in 1958 & 1959, Hello to my old Shipmates and I hope you are doing well..." [15AUG98]

STANGA, Bob bstanga@grci.com "...I was an aircrewman (AT) in VP-44 from May 1961 until May 1964. Flew with Gary Lake, Hugh Tally, Bill Stinson, Dick Nevala, Ray Beck, Don Campbell and others. Was the first qualified "first tech" on P-3A. Flew 17 hour flight during Cuban crisis. Was in LM aircraft in picture flying over ship carrying missiles. VP-44 has to own a record for number of people that went from there to NESEP program. 1 prior to 1963, 5 in 63, 1 in 64, 2 or 3 in 65. I retired as LCDR in 1980. Currently work for GRCI in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland providing engineering and management support for NAVAIR EP-3E programs..." [09MAY2000]

STOKES, James D. poncho5859@hotmail.com "...I was in VP-44 1958-1959. I was in supply, then later in the old beach crew. I am in contact with another guy that was in VP-44 1957-1959 his name is Edgar Bryant..." [20JAN2005]

ST. JOHN, AT2 Lorin lesj@uswest.net "...I served 2 of my 4 years of Naval service in VP-44 NAS Norfolk, Virginia on LM-12 From July 1957 to July 1959. Just finishing 39th year at Boeing. Getting real close to retirement...I retired from The Boeing Company with 39 years of service. My wife and I moved down to HOT Arizona for our retirement years. My 2 years in VP-44 (7-57 to 7-59) on P5M-2 (LM-12) are still fresh in my memory. Well just about. We mostly just participated in a lot of ASW training flights. I I remember during the Cuban missile crisis (10-62); I saw a picture of a VP-44 Orion patrolling some Russian Trawlers on the way to Cuba on the front page of the Seattle Times. Just think-if I had stayed in; just maybe I could have been on that plane. (???) Forever NAVY. Lorin St. John (AT2-R) R means retired!!! (From Boeing that is)..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 27SEP2000 | 08MAY99]

STROMEYER, CDR Anthony J. (Tony), Retired eileen.stromeyer@erols.com "...I served with VP-8 October 56 to June 60, VP-44 July 63 to December 65, and retired August 1978..." [25FEB99]

STUPKA, Bill wrstupka@gate.net "...I was with VP-44 from 1953 to 1956 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia (Breezy Point). As an AT2, I was 2nd Tech on CC-7 (P5M-1) and 1st Tech on CC-9 (P5M-2) during that time. Would be happy to hear from anyone of that vintage..." [E-Mail Updated 20JAN99 | 11NOV97]

SULLIVAN, CAPTAIN Ken Retired ksulli124@aol.com "...Happy to plug into names/faces from grand, memorable VP career. Flew P-5s and P-3s with VP-48 from 1965-1968 (flew sguadron's 1st P-3A from factory to NAS Moffett Field, California), Safety/NATOPS and Ops in VP-44 from 1974-1976, XO/CO of VP-10 from 1977-1979, CO of VP-31 from 1981-1982, and CO of NAS Adak, Alaska from 1985-1987. I am now totally retired. Ann and I are entrenched in Columbia, SC, where I entusiastically attend family patriarch duties, yell at the TV, hunt, fish, and travel to hide out and philosophically reflect--upon my life and navel--at mountain/homplace cabin in VA. Would appreciate a signal from any old Shipmates..." [31JUL2002]

Memorial Picture "...SUPINA, AT3 Rudolph J. "Soup"...Would like to notify Shipmates of the passing of AT3 Rudolph J. "Soup" SUPINA who lost his fight against lung cancer on February 19th, 2006. Rudy served in PBM`s from 1950 to 1954 with VP-44 and ATU-700. Rudy retired as Director of Highway Maintenance for the State of Connecticut and was extremely proud of his time in the VP Navy...Ken Hayes adrc52@aol.com..." [27MAR2006]

SUPINA, AT3 Rudolph J. "Soup" (Deceased) rsupina@charter.net "...I did my Boot at the Lakes in November 1950. Served with VP-44 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and became an AT striker (ATAN). Then to "A" school at NAS Jacksonville, Florida and "B" school in NAS Memphis, Tennessee, then to ATU-700 at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas from early 1952 to discharge in September 1954. I flew as a radar/radioman (AT-3) and was part of the search effort in May 1954 when one of our aircraft went in south of Brownsville, TX. Quinton Killion was the radioman on that flight and a personal friend of mine. I would like to correspond with any one that may remember me..." [Deceased 27MAR2006 | E-Mail Updated 01SEP2003 | 04SEP2002]


TAGGART, AMH2 Steven sxt2000@gmail.com "...I served with VP-31 NAS Moffett Field, California for training, VP-44 and VP-10 NAS Brunswick, Maine. I was stationed at NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan for 2 years (1978 to 1980) and NAS Brunswick, Maine (1980 to 1982). Like to touch base with folks who remember the good old days..." [09NOV2008]

TALLEY, Hugh hotalley@AOL.COM "...I served in VP-44 from 1960 to 1964 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia and later at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [11MAR2000]

TAYLOR, AW2 Dave dtaylor@lakecountry.net "...I served in VP-44 FROM JUNE 74 TO JULY 77. I WAS AN AW2 SS1 ON CAC 4. TACCO WAS LT TERRY MILLER. LOVED MY TIME THERE. IF ANYONE REMEMBERS ME LET ME KNOW. NAS Brunswick, Maine WAS A GREAT STATE..." [28MAY2001]

TAYLOR, ADC James M. Jr. chiefjimmy01@msn.com "...I served with VP-44 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-16 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, NAS Pensacola, Florida (shore duty), NAS Memphis, Tennessee (B-School in 1968) and VF-32 flying F-4's. I am retired now in living in Pensacola, Florida, I would love to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 03OCT2010 | 29MAR2000]

TAYLOR, Paul wpaultaylor@yahoo.com "...My first and only VP tour was with the VP-44 Golden Pelicans from 1984 through 1986. Despite the tortures of being a non-designated Airman, I had a blast. In fact here's an excerpt from my bio: "He still considers his favorite (and most humbling) tour of duty the time he spent as a non-designated airman, or janitor, with VP-44 ('84-'86). With the Golden Pelicans, Paul cleaned toilets in NAS Brunswick, Maine; NAS Sigonella, Sicily; and NS Rota, Spain. Those were the formative years of his career, and helped mold him into the journalist he is today." I'm currently stationed at the American Forces Network radio and TV outlet at Misawa Air Base, Japan, but am preparing to transfer to the staff of COMNAVSURFLANT in NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Please feel free to drop me a line..." [07FEB2000]

TEETZ, LCDR Bill Retired teetz.bill@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as an AX3 (1964 to 1965), VP-56 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAS Jacksonville, Florida (October 1969 to October 1972), NAVFAC Barbados (November 1972 to March 1975) and VP-24 NAS Jacksonville, Florida (May 1977 to April 1980). I retired in 1984..." [E-Mail Updated 12DEC2005 | 17JUN98]

TETLOW, AMH3 John jhntetl1a@verizon.net "...I served with VP-44 (1981-1985) at NAS Brunswick, Maine..." [25JAN2013]

THIER, Clint cthier@pacbell.net "...I served with VP-44 at NAS Norfolk, Virginia with 3000 hours aboard the P5M..." [29MAY2012]

TOUCHETTE, ATCS(AW) Bob Retired robert.j.touchette@gmail.com "...Served 20 years in the NAS Brunswick, Maine Community, AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine (09/1978-01/1982), VP-8 (01/1982-02/1986) with deployments to NAS Bermuda (1982), NAS Sigonella, Sicily (1983-1984) and NS Rota, Spain (1985), AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine (1986-1989), VP-44 (10/1989-Disestablishment 06/1991) with deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland (1989-1990), VP-23 (7/1991-12/1993) with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily (1992), then back to my old haunts, AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine (12/1993-08/1998). This retirement stuff is OK! Please feel free to contact me. Since retiring I worked at LL Bean doing physical security while going to Thomas College in Waterville, ME to get a degree. Graduated in 2002 with a BS in Public Accounting. Took a job as a Revenue Agent with the IRS in October 2003. I really like my job and I work with a bunch of good folks. I've been with the IRS for 15 years now, still having a good time. I’m currently in the Stoneham, MA office and living in New Durham, NH near Lake Winnipesaukee, If you get up this way, send me an e-mail...maybe we can do lunch..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 28JUN2018 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 13FEB2008 | E-Mail Updated 21MAR2004 | E-Mail Updated 17JUL2001 | E-Mail Updated 18NOV99 | 07AUG98]

TURNER, CDR Mark L. http://www.nol.navy.mil/homepages/vp-45/home/pages/xobio.htm "...Commander Mark L. Turner was born in Greenwich, Connecticut. He graduated from Marquette University in May 1987 with a B.A. in Political Science. He received his commission through the Reserve Officer Training Corps and was designated a Naval Flight Officer in February 1999.

In September 1989, he reported to the "Golden Pelicans" of VP-44 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. Flying the P-3C Update II Orions, he deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Upon the disestablishment of VP-44 he reported to the "Proud Pegasus" of VP-11 where he made a deployment to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. During these tours he was designated an Instructor Tacco and Mission Commander and served as Conventional Weapons Officer, Communications Officer, and Readiness Officer.

Commander Turner then reported to the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington D.C. in May 1992. He served as Assistant Patrol Aviation Placement Officer and Flight Student Placement Officer. During this time he earned is Masters Degree in Business Administration from Averett College, Danville, Virginia.

In May 1995, Commander Turner was assigned as Operations Administration Officer on the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN-73). He qualified as Officer of the Deck, and earned his Surface Warfare Officer designation. He completed a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf in support of operations JOINT ENDEAVOR and SOUTHERN WATCH.

Following his disassociated sea tour, Commander Turner reported to the P-3 Replacement Squadron, VP-30 for instructor duty where he served as Training Director.

In March 1998, Commander Turner reported to the "Golden Swordsmen" of VP-47 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. During this tour he served as Administration Officer, Training Officer, and Operations Officer and completed deployments to NSF Diego Garcia and NAF Misawa, Japan.

Commander Turner then reported to the CNO as the Assistant P-3 and Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA) Requirements Officer in November 1999. Upon completion of the MMA Analysis of Alternatives (AoA), he was assigned to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Requirements, initiating development of a Broad Area Maritime Surveillance UAV program.

In July 2002, Commander Turner reported to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Command, Control, Communications and Computer (C4) Systems Directorate (J-6). He served as Informations Operations Action Officer until his transfer to the Force Structure, Resources and Assessment Directorate (J-8) where he served as the Executive Assistant to the Vice Director for the Force Structure, Resources and Assessment Directorate. In March 2005, he reported to VP-45 as the Executive Officer.

Commander Turner's personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, four Navy-Marine Corps Commendation medals, Navy Achievement medal and various campaign and unit awards.

Commander Turner is married to the former Joanne Mosca of Westport, Connecticut..." [19MAR2005]


UMPHFRES, Ralph G. rgordon@comcast.net "...Served with VP-44 summer of 1966 till June of 1969 in Power plants and AMD. I also served in VP-31 from February 1978 till retirement in September of 1986..." [24DEC2005]


VALLONE, Phil pvallone@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (November 1988 through June 1991), VP-26 (June 1991 through Auguest 1992), and VX-1 (August 1992 through December 1994). I am looking for some of my old Shipmates..." [18DEC99]

VANDIVER, AT1 Dana Retired vandiver@dialnet.net "...I was and ADJ in VS-28 in 1973-76 I changed my rate to AX in 73 and was assigned to VP-11 as an IFT. I served in VP-11, VP-30, VP-44 NATTC Memphis as an AVA instructor and Then retired from VP-44 in 1993. I am interested in contacting any old (or new) shipmates. great sight I'll keep watching. Dana Vandiver, 2428 E. Bennett St., Springfield, MO. 65804 or e-mail..."

VanDIVER, AECS/(FE) Harold "Kris" Retired scpohv@aol.com "...I served with VPU-2 (05/1982-11/1985). Countless bear hunts and PE ops. Good times. Never quite mastered the 9 hole course on Midway. Goonies often in the way. Retired 1995 while assigned to VP-26 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. Now teach public school. National Board Certified Teacher since 2006. Still have, after all of these years, P-3 performance numbers in my head. Miss the flying and my Shipmates. In the landing pattern here in Jax. Will miss the purr of those dash-14's when the P-8 assumes the watch. I served with VP-44, VXN-8, VPU-2, VP-45, VP-30 and VP-26. Flew aboard the P-3A/B/C, RP-3A/D, EP-3 and UP-3A..." [BIO Updated 06SEP2011 | 10JUN98]

VanGAASBEEK, Max D. mvangaas@kdhe.state.ks.us "...I served with VP-44 from 1960 to July 1962. I was the radioman on LM (Pelican)-2. Would be interested to hear from any fellow crew members or anyone else from the squadron during that time frame..." [01JUL2002]

VANLANDINGHAM, PR1 Jack R. Retired cvanlan123@aol.com "...In 1940 and '41 I was in VP-51 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. VP-51 was an advanced base patrol squadron. We had PBY-1s. While in Puerto Rico we obtained the PBY-5s from Consolidated Aircraft in San Diego. In early 1941 VP-51 moved to NAS Norfolk, Virginia for short stay, then to NAS Floyd Bennett Field, New York in Flatbush Brooklyn, N.Y. From April '41 the squadron alternated half the squadron to NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada while the air station there was being completed. The crews stayed aboard the USS Albemarle (AV-5), a seaplane tender. That same year President Franklin Roosevelt gave the order to engage and "shoot on sight" any German submarines sighted. VP-51 was also changed to VP-71. In 1947, '48' and half of '49 I was in VP-44 in NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone. VP-40 was there also. We sent detachments to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for AirSea Rescue. I was a PR1 during my stay in VP-44. If anyone remembers me please get in touch. I retired in 1960..." [14JAN2002]

VERENEAU, ATC(AW/NAC) Mark ATCJEEP@aol.com "...Great to see the names of those I served with. Brings back many fond memories of my most enjoyable times in the Navy. I served in VP-48 (85-88) as an IFT and VP-44 (88-91) and then ASWOC/TSC Cecil Field where I was medically grounded and went through the tailhook modification and have since served with VS-24 Scouts and am now attached to VFA-106 Gladiators where I plan to retire from in 2001. Feel free to drop an e-mail..." [13MAR99]

VERMILLION, George vermilli@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1978 to 1981 with a deployment to NAS Keflavik, Iceland (ASW is not pretty) and WestPac, ASWOC NAS Sigonella, Sicily from 1983 to 1985, NRL from 1985 to 1987, and ASWOC NS Rota, Spain from 1988 to 1991. Now living near Annapolis, sailing on the Cheaspeake and playing music. Life is good. My best to Swamp Ratt, Sargeant Rock, Hillbilly, Bojangles, Jake, Elwood and all the rest..." [21OCT2003]

VICK, YN Elsa Delacruz vickelsa@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 from May 1989 through November 1990, then I traveled on to VQ-1 from November 1990 through November 1993. I was a YN and my husband Michael was an AD. We are now both Paratroopers in the US Army. Loving live, but missing our former Shipmates..." [19DEC2001]

VILLEGAS, AZ2 Robert robertjulmel@cox.net "...I served with VP-44 in Maintenance Control from 1973 to 1976. Anxious to hear from all that remember me from that time. I now work for the U.S. Postal Service in San Diego, Ca. Nothing has ever matched the comradership associated with my Navy years. I foundly remember the good times and the great people I got to know and work for during those wonderfull years, it's been a pleasure. I will respond back to all ASAP!..." [E-Mail Updated 24APR2003 | E-Mail Updated 27DEC2001 | E-Mail Updated 31MAR2001 | 27JUN2000]


YEATS, Raymond (Rowdy) RowdyPilot@aol.com "...VP-44 (75-78), VP-31(78-81), 42 SQN RAF (81-84) NWC 84-85), VP-46 (85-87) Commander, Patrol Wing Ten (CPW-10) (87), XO/CO VP-40 (89-90) Commander, Patrol Wing Ten (CPW-10) (90-91), CNAP VP Training (91-94), ACOS MARDEZPAC (94-95) Retired 1995. Currently A-300 pilot with Federal Express Corp..." [27MAR98]

YOHN, JACK E. jyohn@pa.net "...I served in VP-44 from 1967 to August 1969. I was a ADJ-2 when I was discharged. I am trying to locate as many of my shipmates as possible that served at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to find out if they would be interested in having a VP-44 Reunion. If you are interested in a Reunion, please e-mail your name and address or drop a card to me at Jack E. Yohn, RD #2 Box 461 New Bloomfield, Pa. 17068 If anyone can supply names and addresses of other VP-44 Shipmates that served at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, I would really appreciate your help..." [E-Mail Updated 05FEB99 | 07DEC98]


WALL, ADCS W. Joe Retired jwallav@bellsouth.net "...I was in VC-5 / VAH-5 / RVAH-5 in 49-56, NAS Pensacola, Florida 56-59, VP-5 in 59-60, AD(B) School 60, VP-11 in 61, NAMT NAS Oceana and NAS Norfolk, Virginia 61-65, VP-44 in 65-67, and VX-1 67-70. I'm retired from the Navy and FAA but still active in aviation, conducting Aircraft Maintenance Seminars for FAA certificated A & P mechanics and I am an FAA Desiginated Airworthiness Represenative (DAR), certifying aircraft and aircraft parts for export, and recertificating aircraft on return to US from a foreign owner..." [E-Mail Updated 24MAR2010 | 01JAN2001]

WALTON, Michael D. waltonmd@live.com "...I served with VP-44 from 1966 to 1969. I was a radar mad operator on LM-3 (BUNO: 152173) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [E-Mail Updated 26APR2010 | E-Mail Updated 16JAN2003 | 10MAY2000]

WATSON, LT(jg) Richard G. Jr. blucat44@gmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (February 1942 to December 1944), VP-907 (March 1946 to November 1946) as a ACMM (first squadron Leading Chief), Redesignated VP-ML-57 (November 1946 - February 1950) and then we were Redesignated VP-871 (March 1950) where I stayed Leading Chief when we were recalled to active dutry in March 1951. We deployed to NAS Sand Point, Seattle, Washington where I decided to rejoin a flight crew. When we deployed to NAS Atsugi, Japan I became Plane Captain of Crew-6. I remained until we returned to NAS Alameda, California in August 1952. I transferred to VR-5 at NAS Moffett Field, California. Would like to contact any of my old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 01SEP2016 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 12NOV2009 | 23JUN2006]

WEAVER, Craig "Corky" corkweav@aol.com "...I served with VP-44 (worked the line) from 1976 to 1980 with deployments to NAS Bermuda and NAS Keflavik, Iceland..." [26FEB2011]

WEST, ADC Donald W. Retired westd@southeast.net"...I had a number of tours in VP, beginning in VP-44 (PBM and P5M) in 1951+, VP-50 (P5M) in 1959+, and VP-22 (P3) in 1967+. Pretty good duty, all..."

WETMORE, Stan swnmct1961@att.net "...I served with VP-44 (07/1963-11/1966). Our CO was CDR Ball Hunter and XO CDR Waller..." [E-Mail Updated 09JUL2014 | 04JAN98]

WHEELER, AE2 John bestdad65@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-44 (1968-1970) with deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. I retired from IBM and now self-employed..." [02NOV2013]

WHITCRAFT, LCDR John Retired mkjc@turbonet.com "...I was in VP-44 from late 61 till 63. Met the squadron in NAS Sigonella, Sicily then back to NAS Norfolk, Virginia and then the NAS Patuxent River, Maryland for the transisition to P-3A's. I was an AT2 advanced to AT1 and worked mainly as a maintenance tech and flew on shop skins. Great to see some name that I recognize from 40 years ago. Left VP-44 for the NESEP program and retired in 78 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as LCDR. Always regretted never getting back to the VPNavy. Now retired again and living in Genesee Idaho..." [24OCT2001]

WIDELL, AX1 Joseph D. Retired jdw22@ime.net "...Entered the Navy at Syracuse, New York On Sept. 1957 and proceeded to Boot Camp at Great Lakes,Ill. From there to Norman, Oklahoma for Fundamentals school till 1958. Then on to AT "A" School at NATTC, Memphis, TN. After graduating, requested 1st Naval Dist. any VP. Reported to VP-7 just prior to the Squadron deploying to NS Rota, Spain. We were left TAD to FASRON 108 to attend Radio Code School at Brunswick. We joined VP-7 in NS Rota, Spain after a short stay in Port Leaouty, Morocco en-route. Served in VP-7 as Radioman on Crew 1, with then CDR Ipser J. Gersik, a man whom I enjoyed every minute of flying with. He could "grease" any landing. Did NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NS Rota, Spain, NAS Bermuda, NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada and of course NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. We were relieved in NAS Argentia, Newfoundland, Canada on a split deployment by the ill-fated crew that crashed at sea in Dec.1959. We then, also crashed at NAS Brunswick, Maine a few weeks later in Jan.1960. Traveled to NAS Jacksonville, Florida for the homeport change which occured in Fall of 1961. Left VP-7 in Feb. 1962 for AT "B" School at Memphis. After "B" sent to NAS Cecil Field. There I spent 13 months in VF-174, a RAG F8U Crusader outfit. After spending a few weeks on the USS Independence CV-62 (my only shipboard duty and while on shore duty) I took advantage of the new AX rating and converted. Was then sent to VP-30 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1963 to complete my tour of shore duty. After some hairy flighttime there I was transfered in 1964 back to Sea duty in VP-21 NAS Brunswick, Maine. Quit flying there and went TAD to NAS AIMD to work primarily MAD and ASW Systems. Left VP-21 in 1968 with orders to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to the "White Whale", a Mobile Unit. While there we were Decommisioned as a Shore duty assignment. While awaiting new orders, we participated in a video taping of a AX Seminar.While talking to the Detailers I was approached by a man who wanted out of orders to NAS Brunswick, Maine and VP-44. We made the change and I received orders to VP-44. Back to "Broomstick"-Yahoo!! Served as Electronics Shop night check Supervisor, then daycheck and finally on to Quality Control. Also, spent many hours working on the ill-fated P-3A that crashed in 1972 in the Med. Myself and another shop tech were supposed to fly with that crew to Sicily and then on to Crete for a Mini Det. We were very fortunate that the local VR Squadron was willing to take us as passengers. I remained in VP-44 till I retired in April 1977. Have had enough excitement to last a lifetime. But,I do miss it and so does the wife. After retirement I went to work at Bath Iron Works building and overhauling Naval Combatants. Retired from there,also. Took an early retirement in 1995. Took a year off, got bored and went to work at LL Bean in Freeport, Me where I live..." [05JAN99]

WHITE, SCPO Richard "Dick" Shipmate PixCirca 1969 c/o Richard A. White II raf-peacemaker@comcast.net "...My Father, Richard "Dick" White has now been retired from the Navy longer than he was in, he is 76 and still sharp as a tack. He tells of his time with VP-44 with a smile on his face and, just as I did when I was young, his grand kids, great grand kids and great great grand kids listen with the same wonderment. we have built a "man cave" we call the patriot, it is a tribute to my familys rich military history. on the wall with several other plaques is the Golden Pelican..." [PIX Updated 01APR2014 | 11FEB2014]

WHITE, CDR Scott R. http://www.patronsix.com/html/white_vp-6.html "...A native of Milton, Florida, Commander Scott R. White graduated from the University of West Florida in June 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree and received his commission through NROTC. He commenced flight training in August 1975 and was designated a Naval Aviator in June 1976. Commander White reported to VP-44 homebased at NAS Brunswick, Maine in February 1977. He completed two deployments to the North Atlantic and qualified as a P-3C Update II Patrol Plane Commander, Instructor Pilot and Mission Commander. His billets in VP-44 included Pilot Training Officer, Schedules Officer and Pilot NATOPS Officer. In March 1980, Commander White reported aboard VT-2 at NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida where he qualified as a Primary and Intermediate stage flight instructor in the T-34C aircraft. He taught student naval aviators radio instrument and precision aerobatic flying until July 1982. Assigned to USS KITTY HAWK (CV-63) in November 1982, Commander White qualified as a Tactical Action Officer and made a Western Pacific/Indian Ocean deployment with Battle Group BRAVO. From November 1984 to November 1985 he was a student at the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. He concurrently earned a Master of Arts degree in International Relations from Salve Regina College in November 1985. Reporting to CPW-2 in December 1985, Commander White served as the Administration Officer and as Officer in Charge of an extended joint service detachment to Midway Island. Following refresher training, Commander White reported to VP-22, homebased at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii where he served as the Operations Officer, Executive Assistant and Quality Assurance Officer. With VP-22, he deployed in P-3B (MOD) aircraft to NAS Adak, Alaska and NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. In June 1989, Commander White reported to the staff of Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet, where he served as Assistant for International Security Affairs and Assistant for Command Relations. On March 15, 1991, Commander White reported aboard VP-6 as the Executive Officer and assumed the command on March 27, 1992. Commander White's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal,National Defense Service Medal and other unit and deployment citations and ribbons..." [17APR2004]

WHITEGIVER, Matthew farnorthwoods@yahoo.com "...I was in VP-44 from 1980 to 1983. Was on VP-44's first WestPac deployment. I would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 10JUL2002 | 31DEC98]

WHITMIRE, AD1 Billy bwhitmire1@cox.net "...I served with VP-44 (1973-1976) and AIMD NAS Brunswick, Maine (1976-1979)..." [05SEP2013]

WILCOX, AWCS Bob Retired vienna1420@gmail.com "...I served at NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal 64-66, VP-44 66-69, VP-30 69-71, TSC NAS Keflavik, Iceland 71-73, VP-6 74-78, TSC NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii 78-79, VP-23 79-83 and Finally using all my P-3 experience I Instructed in S-3As at VS-41 83-86. I would do it all again but at almost 70 years old I don't think I'd pass the Aircrew physical. Great friends, Great memories."..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 21JUN2015 | 26DEC2000]

WILKINSON, Jeff jeffwilk@clairson.com "...For those that don't remember I was the idiot that stole the car from the club in NAS Keflavik, Iceland (that first deployment there). Well I reformed and became an engineer for General Electric. It was great reading some of the comments from former Shipmates. I agree with most that the few years in VP-44 (76-80) were some of my best. Regards and best of luck to all..." [20OCT2000]

WINDSOR, AT1 Arthur Retired capart1600@yahoo.com "...I served with USS Princeton (CVS-37) (1956-1958), VF-101 (1959-1960), VF101 Det. "A" (1960-1962), VW-13 (1962-1964) Flight Technician, AEWBarRonPac (1964-1965) Flight Technician, VP-48 (1965-1967) MAD/RAD/Sniffer, VC-3 (1967-1969) Radio Operator, VP-44 (1970) light Technician, VP-8 (09/1970-11/1974) Flight Communication Officer..." [06JUL2017]

WINGATE, Larry vp44attwo@earthlink.net "...6/58 boot camp San Diago (Co. 358), NAS Point Mugu, California for 6 months TAD with Seabees, Norman for air school, Millington for AT and ATR "A" school VP-44 59-62. One deployment to NAS Sigonella, Sicily, by way of Argentia, Lajes, NS Rota, Spain. I was with 4 plane detachment to Morrocco for Sheperds 'Proj Merc' flight. We had special "SARAH" equipment and had to cover North Africa, South Europe and the Canary Is. Nice trips to Rome Athens and Majorica. I do miss some of my old friends. We have 4 kids and 3 grandchildren to keep us busy now..." [E-Mail Updated 23NOV2001 | 18FEB98]

WINTRISS, CDR Vic gvw@san.rr.com "...I served with METG (later VT-6), VP-18 NAS Jacksonville, Florida and VP-44 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Does anyone have a picture of the METG (VT-6) side/tail number painting scheme?..." [03JAN2004]

WOJTON, Jim J.WOJTON@WORLDNET.ATT.NET "...I served with VP-44 from 1958 thru 1961. I first flew in P5M'S Radio on 5S56. We deployed to San Juan in 1960 and on return force landed in the Atlantic on our return to NAS Norfolk, Virginia. We set a seaplane taxiing record of 550 miles and ended up in Gitmo. That wasn't TS56, I think I was flying in 2S56 or Pelican 2. Rcihard Myers was the Pilot. Snivley was the first mech. We later moved into P2V 5F'S. I was in LM 4. Sure is good to look back!...I served with ATU-614 at NAS Hutchinson, Kansas from October 1957 through April 1958 (approximate). I was awaiting assignment to "P" school in NAS Norman, Oklahoma. I worked on the flightline and also chased Jack Rabbits on Guard Duty..." [BIO Updated 19NOV2001 | 12NOV2001]

WOLFE, AOCS Joe Retired Eaglvis@aol.com "...Enlisted 1971. AOA school NAS Jacksonville, Florida 1972 VP-30 1972 pipelined as a groundpounder AO for VP-11. Wound up in VP-44 after Moroco crash of VP-44 in 1972. Flew w/ CAC 9 from 1972 to 1976 and CAC 6 1976-1977. Orders to SERE Jan. 1978 to Oct. 1980 SERE Instructor, NAS Brunswick, Maine. Got out of Navy 1980. Re-enlisted 1981 and back to SERE NAS Brunswick, Maine till 1983 (thanks to AVCM Bob Frasch and ADMRL Mulloy). Went to VP-8 as a groundpounder AO 1983 to 1987. Returned to SERE NAS Brunswick, Maine, May, 1987 (thanks to Capt. John Evans aka. Little John, and CDR Tim Sullivan). Retired from active duty Oct. 1992 out of SERE. BS in Human Resourses, Associates, Microsoft Cert. Looking for any shipmates from the past email me. Also looking for any SERE Instructors to place on a new SERE Instructor Web site..." WebSite: http://members.tripod.com/~SERE_2/index.html [18FEB99]

WORD, F. B. BWord@austin.rr.com "...XO/CO VP-23 Sept 88-Oct 90...VP-44 73-77 & 84-87...VP-30 77-79 & 87-88...Commander, Patrol Wing Five (CPW-5) 82-84 & 90-92...NMPC S/DC Dallas 80-82...CNATRA 92-94...USAF Education & Training Command 94-97...Retired in Austin, TX..." [Updated E-Mail 03DEC99]

WYLY, CDR James R. Retired bobandrozy@sofnet.com "...In the history of VP International it notes that the original P-2000 club was formed with one American, one Australian, and RCAF members of 407 Maritime Squadron. I was the American mentioned. As a Navy LCDR I was on exchange duty with the RCAF at Comox, B.C. from 1965-1967. I would like to hear from any members of 407 Squadron from that time. During my career, I had two tours in VP-26, One tour in VP-30 and a tour as XO-CO of VP-44...." [E-Mail Updated 31MAY2003 | 15SEP98]


YAREMCHUK, PO1 Nick Jr. Retired nickyarem1725@yahoo.com "...I served aboard the USS Kearsarge (CVS-33) (1967-1968), A School (1968), VXN-8 (1968-1971), NAS Patuxent River, Maryland TAD AIMD, USS Guam (LPH-9) (1971-1972), B School (1972), VP-30 (1973-1976) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland / NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-45 (1976-1980) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, OMD (1980-1983) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, VP-44 (1983-1986) at NAS Brunswick, Maine, VT-23 (1986-1987) at NAS Kingsville, Texas, Training Air Wing Four Contracts (1987-1989) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and retired November 1989..." [E-Mail Updated 20SEP2015 | E-Mail Updated 03MAY2015 | E-Mail Updated 23MAR2013 | E-Mail Updated 23SEP2011 | E-Mail Updated 21JUL2010 | 17MAY2009]


ZELL, AX3 Gerry Puccini@home.com "...I served in VP-44. 1964 to 1966. AX3 attached to AMD department..." [E-Mail Updated 23JAN2000 | 00XXX96]


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