San Miguel NCS
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Messages 001 - 100 . . . . Messages 101 - 200
Messages 201 - 300 . . . . Messages 301 - 400

Posted 2-4-05
Phil (T.J.) Vasilakis, CTRSN 1973-1974
USNAV71@AOL.COM

Great message board!!  Well, what the heck did I actually accomplish while stationed at San Miguel, PI? Arrived as a CTR boot, not knowing what to expect. The duty officer(s) had less of an idea where to place me. Eventually found myself playing for the Comets Basketball Team. Worked very little during the day, played basketball in the afternoon, ending the day with a few San Miguel's at the crossroads. Great entreatment. The good life came to an end when I received TAD orders for the USS Fox (DLG-33). San Miguel left me with wonderful memories. Would like to hear from any former Comets Basketball Teamates (1973).

Posted 2-4-05
Orren Knoffloch, 1969 - 1970
Orren.Knoffloch@ssa.gov

Arrived at San Miguel in 12/69 as a CT (Rbrancher)--had to spend the first month or so doing chow hall duties waiting to be assigned to the "site".  I was an E3 to start with, then about March became a CTR4.  I don't really remember much about my actual stay in Phillipines since I went TAD to DaNang in roughly March of 70.  I spent a year over there with BigLook and then went on to Sabana Seca Puerto Rico after that--came out of that as an E5.  Names I remember are Jerry Witherspoon, Jimmy Beckwith, Ron Radish, Paul Pittinger.  Like I said--most of my time was over in vietnam--Butch Hand I think was a linguist.  There was an O brancher that got me over there--I think his name was Rocky (a red head) but don't really remember.  Another R brancher over there was from Lincoln--Roger Blecha?  Several of the guys were permanently assigned for the whole stay over there.  We played a lot of cards and drank even more. Long flights etc. I remember the beach, a couple of trips out to the island in "Banco??" boats?? Etc.  Still have tons of pictures but no clue as to what they are. Chief Swartout I think was top dog in danang when I first got there Any memories would be appreciated.

Posted 2-4-05
Danny Kisor, ITCM (Ret), was RM2/RM1 at San Miguel from OCT 79 - OCT 82.
dkisor@hotmail.com

My time in San Miguel was one of the greatest times of my life.  I worked at the Receiver Site until I was drafted by Potter to go to the Fleet Center. I saw a posting (I believe it was Robinson) talking about RMCM James Potter, the only sour memory of the entire tour in San Miguel.  I actually ran into that jerk in San Diego in the mid 80's.  From what I was told, he was forced to retire after trying his tactics at one of the carrier staffs in San Diego.  I guess he got what he deserved.  I married my wife, Sally, while in San Miguel, and we are coming up on our 25th anniversary!  Hard to believe. I still keep in touch with some of the great friends from that time, Steve Varner, Randy "ASTRO" Astrackon, Bob Curry, Danny Estrada, Chuck Boyce, Wayne "QUES" Quesenberry.  I have also crossed paths with many of my shipmates from San Miguel over the years.  I lost track of Lane Russell, and if anyone has any idea how to contact him that would be great.  Anyway, I got out of the Navy from San Miguel and came back a few months later.  I had a little different outlook on things when I returned, and somehow managed to make MasterChief.  I retired in OCT 2002.  I am living in Pensacola, Florida and loving life!  I have two kids, a daughter who was born while we were in San Miguel, and a 20 year old son.  We went to San Miguel in 92 (I believe)and actually got a tour of the base and checked out our old house.  Astro was with us.  It really brought back some memories!  It would be great to hear from any of you that were at San Miguel during my tour there.

Posted 2-4-05
David Marshall RMSN 1963 - 1964
wa4nms@yahoo.com

Greetings!!   First duty station out of  Radio A school, summer of 63.  What a waste to send an 18 year old to paradise, not knowing how good he has it.  Had  my introduction to the ole "pale pilsener" the first night on base, learned to navigate a spinning bunk. My first duty as an RMSA, I was told to go the receiver site and ask for chief "whats-his-name".  I wasn't told that the "spooks" were out there too and I was on a bus full of them.  When they went to their station I fell in with them (proudly waving my temporary badge).  Passing through 2 or 3 marine guards I found myself in a room full of receiver stations (R-390's).  I was having a ball "short-wave-listening" until people with guns showed up.  Several heads rolled over that, and I got some serious "de-briefing" as to what I didn't see.  I later came to know some CT's and was told my foray made quite a splash.  Even 5 yrs later on Guam a CT friend said he knew about it and he wasn't even there at the time.   I guess they wanted to keep me away from them guys so I was assigned to circuit control.  There is no more exciting time than circuit control after a power failure, with a room full of KW-26's needing new cards.   After one of those power failures and the mad house of trying to bring everyone back up secure. I got into a conflict with some one on one of the carriers that just happened to be in Subic.  He wanted me to explain to him why we had lost sync and he would not reset crypto until I took the time to satisfy him personally.  I told him I didn't have time to fool with him and he could just wait until everyone else was up.  This RMSA had just told the comm officer to shove it. By the time his driver got him to San Miguel, my chief had sent me on a mercy mission off base.  Now there is a Chief a kid could like.   I wish I could remember names, but I have always been lousy at that.  I do remember Chief Crazy Thunder.   Serious...he was RMC Crazy Thunder.  There was an officer, Bjorn or something like that.  An RM3 I think, but not sure, first name Henry.  On the OW he was "HH".  He was my mentor.   Would love to hear from any one from that time, 63-64.  I was supposed to be there through 65 but a car load of lawyers at the gate and a paternaty suit interfered.  "another story".  

Posted 2-4-05
Mike Barth, Cpl., Company C, Marine Support Bn., Feb. 71 - Aug. 72
michael.barth@ms.ngb.army.mil

Greetings, I was a CTR Marine at NAVCOMSTAPHIL during the dates above and would love to talk to anyone who remembers me or was there at that time.  Can anyone tell me what happened to Company C?  It was my understanding that they were going to close down the entire base and move the coverage to Guam in late 72 or early 73.  From reading some of the messages this obviously didn't happen.  From looking at the satellite photo it appears that there was a lot of construction to the base after I rotated home.  When is the rest of the site going to be up and running, I'd love to see some photo's. Contact me if you remember me or were there when I was.  I work at Camp Shelby, a Mississippi National Guard base just south of Hattiesburg Mississippi.

Posted 2-4-05
George Skinner, 1976 - 1977
Gskinner@worksourcefl.com

My name is George Skinner and I was stationed aboard NAVCOMMSTAPHIL  as a QM2  from ’76 to ’77. I started out in Security Department as an MSP and went on to Military Investigations. Sure remember holding up the overhead at Santos Menas’ carpenter shop and sari-sari store on the access road (first mango tree on the right !) Had to know it would end some day, but then again if it didn’t I sure wouldn’t be in the heaven I’m in now !!!

Posted 2-4-05
Harold Fellows, 1974, 1984
freqgod@yahoo.com

Hello,   My name is Harold Fellows.   I was stationed at San Miguel twice. Once for a TAD tour of about 3 months in 1974  from NAVCOMMSTA Japan. That was it....I was hooked on the place! It took me many years  I finally got back there in 1984. (after about 3 years of broken service) I was stationed there for 4 years. I was the LPO of the Technical Control Division.   While there on the second tour I was an RM1.   San Miguel was a great place to be stationed. It was probably one of the best kept secrets in the Navy.   I am now retired from the USN.   Your website....subicbaypi.com is great!   My wife and I will be visiting the Philippines in about three weeks. She is from Cebu and we have been married for almost 23 years. We are going to Cebu and to Barrio Barretto. Places where we still have property.

Posted 2-4-05
Scott M. Simms, ET3-ETC, 1985 - 1991
simmss@fset.navy.mil

OCEANOGRAPHIC UNIT FOUR (Subic Bay, USNS Chauvenet [T-AGS-29]), 1984-85 AMCC, NCTS San Miguel, RP (Ashore Mobile Contingency Communications), 1985-87 USNS Mispillion (T-AO-105), Subic Bay, RP, 1987-1989 USS Sterett (CG-31), Subic Bay, RP, 1989-1991 (Pinatubo) USS Independence in Yokosuka then on to Hawaii.  Retired at 20 as a CWO and work as DOD contractor at NCTAMS PAC PRNOC. Lived in BRGY San Juan, and Burgos, San Antonio for seven years--great years, tremendous memories. Life member FRA branch 367 in San Miguel. Life member VFW post 11447 Barrio Barretto Knew/know many who still live in San Antonio. Aloha

Posted 2-4-05
John P. Wilson CTR1 (CTRC-Ret), May 1970 - May 1972
JPWilson@ASClearwater.uscg.mil

Was stationed at Det "A" Phu Bai for one year. Then worked as supervisor of Charlie Secion PandR, then TAD to Phu Bai for awhile. Fond memories of everything that went on there. When your young, you're invinceable.

Posted 2-4-05
Joe Stevens, RM2, 1984-1988
augie_maru@yahoo.com

Message Center and R-site. Wow..did I see some names here that brought back memories..!! Would sure like to hear from some folks..!! Mike Kennedy, Jim Bumbaugh, RM1 (then) Carter..and of course..my ol buddy from Boston..Bill Martin..!! And lots of others..shoot me an email.   Hope all good things have come to each of you.

Posted 2-4-05
Thomas Wharton, RMSN, 1963 - 1965
bulkmailingservice@comcast.net

Hello guys, my name is Thomas Wharton, RMSN at the time. Just sitting here trying to remember some names, not many come back to me now. I am now 59, had two heart attacks and 1 stroke. I was in the P.I. at NAVCOMSTAPHIL from 1963 to 1965 or thereabouts.  I remember a few guys faces, but not many names, Ted Fee is one I remember, from Alaska. Another was Sweeney, a guy that married a girl from there. Seems like there was a guy named "Tiny" Lake, big dude with a good heart, but didn't do well on San Miguel and Pizza combination.  I remember another guy that stayed in the swimming pool most of the time, great acrobatic diver, we went to Manila once and donned civvies and went to the US Embassy Club, put on like we were Englishmen or Irishmen, some kind of fake accent, I do remember we ran out of money and owed for several beers, we made up a line about our fathers would be back to take care of the bill.     I remember being there when the Maddox and Turner Joy events happened. I also remember my instructor from Radioman School saying that we would probably never see a flash message. Yeah Right !, I remember brown paper bags full of them with the tty tape attached to them waiting to be sent out. I was on the tty the night or day that the Maddox and Turner Joy was attacked. I didn't even know that the tty's had bells until then. I wound up working as a qsl clerk or qsy, don't even remember. I do remember the nipa hut and the crystal clear water at the Capones Islands, went there several times, also was there at San Miguel when a typhoon came through, a pretty strong one as I recall. I remember going to a movie theater in a town I think was San Antonio, the filipino cowboys in the movie were riding Caraboa, and I remember eating watermelon seeds, and some kind of popsicle with something like a pea located in the top.   I remember the Pink Elephant (bought a girl there a pair of reading glasses) and D'Cave. I also remember a couple of guard marines jumping me on the bridge coming back in from the crossroads, tried to throw me over the rails, and run over me with a motor scooter.  My jaw still hurts sometimes, where they cold-cocked me. But even that is now a part of the good (?) memories. I played a guitar even back then. Spent some nights all night playing.   On another note, I also remember knocking down a pinsetter at the bowling alley, I thought they were automatic. I know I am rambling, but just typing down thoughts as they come to my mind. Anyone remember me and want to send me an email please do so at . I now live in Northport, Alabama. Which is the same neck of the woods that I was from back then. I remember much more, but time will not permit me to go on and on. email me. Thanks for the memories.  

Posted 2-12-05
Randy Astrackon (Astro), RM3, 1980 - 1982
rastra53@yahoo.com

Receivers Site watchbill. Those were the days. Best times of my life. Good buddies, Danny Kisor, Steve Varner, Bob Curry, Danny Estrada, Wayne Quisenberry, Lane Russell, Chuck Boyce, I remember those wild times up at 100% Rock (Longapo). Heading up Angeles with my watch sections the (Bravo Burnouts, Delta Dogs). Not to forgoet Paul Lizzo, Rob Huben, Angelo Parsons, Vandy, Derek Casanova, Greg Perry, JB.

Posted 2-12-05
Dan Angeles, RM3, 1983 - 1985
Fleet message Center
sk82@cox.net

Hello to everyone back in the day. One of the greatest times and most memorable times in my life, I will always remember the PI and the many great friends I made there. Drop me a line and let catch up on the good old days.

Posted 2-12-05
Pat Moore / Corporal / 6-'81 - 9-'82
Marine Barracks Duty Co C - San Miguel
pmoore@inacompcs.com

Looking for any jarheads who served @ nav comm sta/san miguel - co charlie - during 1981 & 1982. pfc nelson.  u know - the dude w/ all them squeaky-clean white sneakers. lance corporal, then pvt, then pfc, then pvt again - donny spradlin. how's 'bout pfc michael engels (or ingels). miss all you m-f'ers.  and the pi, as well. hope all is well w/ u guys. eml me back @ "".  love to hear from u or anybody from that era. take care & be good

Posted 2-15-05
Charles Thomas Parks, MA1, 1982 - 1987
mficoo@aol.com

Just wanted to add my name to the list of those who proudly served at USNAVCOMMSTAPHIL.

Posted 2-16-05
Eugene "Frenchy" Jeansonne, CYN3/RM2., 1969 - 1973
egjean1@cox.net

Worked at the "Terminal Bldg"....Remembering some of my friends like Mike Damron, Mike Wadel, David "Lapo Lapo" Laing, Chief Ott , Gary Wilfong and all the rest in "Charley Section". Playing softball in San Narcisco. Going to the Blue Heaven. Remembering the time we spent the night off base and having the gate closed the next morning and sneaking around the beach side and going thru the back gate and not getting caught.  Sail boat to the Capones. Worked in Message Center, Crypto Room, Write Ups, Fleet Locator, Router. Love it so much I married a PINO and brought her back with me ..Now married 35 years, two sons, one born at Cubi Point and the other in San Diego..E-Mail me ...would love to hear from you...QRU

Posted 2-16-05
Tim Aukshun, Ret USAF PI 67-69 74-76- 78-82 and 83-retired here in 85
tim@oceandeep.biz 

Looking for anyone who may remember an incident out side San Miguel about 1979-81. A navy guy was shoot with a small caliber gun. He did not die but I witnesses it and spent a year going to court for the Navy. Now need info on the time and date for a VA claim. Thanks and always remember San Mig as the best damn scuba diving and partying place.

Posted 4-11-05
Dennis Charles "Beetle" Bailey, RM2(SS), Feb 76 - May 77
Communications Maintenance Division (CMD)
saymoocow@yahoo.com

It was the year of the American Bi-Centennial, and I worked in the Terminal Building for CMD / Teletype Repair, with other enlisted and Filipino skilled workers. I selected San Miguel as my GUARD II (Reenlistment Incentive Program) preferred duty station.

Most fond memory was being picked up by my sponsor (another Wisconsin native) J.J. O'Leary - who also announced ball games at San Miguel. JJ picked me up in a big 4-door air-conditioned Ford, at Clark AFB and he proceeded to "introduce" me to the PI and Angles City. We headed onto San Miguel some 4-5 hours after my arrival.

My indoc into the PI culture and the IN’s/OUT's of overseas duty, a required two week Navy program for military and dependents, included a couple trips to the local areas. One excursion took our group up to Iba, Zambalies. At that time Iba was one of the filming locations for the Francis Ford Cappola movie - Apocalypse Now. They were not filming at the time, but we all got tee-shirts and took some photos. Weeks later, I recall the film company was trying to get American military (to take leave) or civilians to sign up as extras for some extra money and bragging rights as being on the movie's production. I believe those bodies were needed for filming in southern Luzon.

Other memories include: the big 4th of July 1976 party, all of the sports we played throughout the 15 months I was there, karate lessons at a San Antonio dojo, the monsoon rains, a couple of pals being put on international legal hold/base restriction, having the FIRST COPY OF THE 1st BOSTON ALBUM and us putting up stereo speakers between the barracks and basting the music until Security toned us down, ALL that San Miguel beer and the "4 Corners" Ginebra Gin... and all of the guys and gals I served with and many fabulous times!

Posted 4-11-05
Nancy O'Bryhim, RM3, 75-Mar77
RCVR Site & Human Goals Office
naobryhim@hotmail.com

I retired in 94 as an RMC but have lots of great memories as a young sailor in Westpac at both NCSJ and especially at NCSP. I started out at the RCVR site working for RM1 Bob Dooley. I remember Jack Dotson being out there also. Geeze, it is hard to remember everyone's name, especially when you get to be my age now and CRS kicks in. My running mate was Nancy Grezenia or Lil Nancy. I still keep in touch with her. She is a retired RMCM. I also worked in the Human Goals office for RMCM Jim McGowan, who I also keep in touch with, and is retired and in MI. with his wife Suzie. His 5 kids are all grown and doing great and around the world. Jim Cook also worked in the same office and I remember his good friend Jim. ( Moore I wonder what happened to them? Then how can anyone forget the double duo Robbie Robertson and Ed White. Last I heard Robbie, who married one of the gals (I wish I could remember her name) from the barracks retired as a chief and lives in CA. I'd be repeating so much of what everyone else has recalled if I listed everything.

Needless to say as a 3rd and a 2nd I was spoiled rotten. Living off base in Barrio San Antonio with a house girl, yard boy, a guy who drove a trike that basically knew my sked who took me to base. Getting clothes made so cheap. Working hard and partying evening harder.... The club and Acey Ducey Lounge and Bob Stanton the manager. I can't forget Nancy's and my first San Miguel in there after we got off restriction LOL. There were so many good times in the Crossroads, Subic City (my 21st birthday at Stumpy's and Gimpy's), Barrio Barrieto my good friend Pete Cooper who owned Travelers, and Olongopo. All the bands, dancing and drinking. Then up to Angeles, Baguio (Camp John Hayes) and Manila. Can anyone remember the hurricane that played havoc with Comms and Ops? If I am not mistaken supplies also. I remember the RCVR site antenna fields flooding over the roads. About that time the movie Apocalypse Now was being filmed up at Iwa Beach and had to be shut down and relocated. Nancy and I made it up to Pagsanjan falls while the filming of Apocalypse Now was going on. Pete Cooper was an extra and we were invited on the set and got to meet Marlon Brando, Martin Sheen, and Dennis Hooper and partied all weekend. But it wasn't all about drinking and partying that made the P.I. so special. It was the people and the country. The Filipino people are so kind and generous. They would take us in like family even though they were so poor, and I do know of some nights girlfriends getting me off the streets to their homes before curfew if I was too far from home. The country was so beautiful, the beaches and the forests. And we got to experience things that most ppl will never get to do. Like ride a Victory Liner (bus) or a jeepney full of people with chickens or whatever kind of animal ppl could carry with them with the bus going as fast as it can down winding roads scaring you sh*tless. Foods that were so delicious. I am glad that I did learn how to cook lumpia, panict, adobo and pan-de-sal and a few other dishes, my kids love them. I guess I am like the rest of my shipmates, when I want a lift or a grin all I need to do is think back and reminisce to those days long ago. HAVFND Nancy O'Bryhim RMC/Ret

Posted 4-11-05
George Bryan, Cpl, Guard Duty, 12-1966 thru 06-1968
georgebryan804@bellsouth.net

Hi all. Would like to hear from any that were stationed during that time .

Posted 4-11-05
Dennis Devenport, CTOSN , 1971 - 1972
Relay site 2 weeks, then Message Center
devenport5@hotmail.com

Guys like Steve Allerding, Jake the Snake, Robert Hogsed, Fergie Fergerson, Paul, and a crazy blond headed guy from Calif. who shot a pistol during a burn at the Msg. Center, are a few memories. Qualifiying with the M14 near the beach. Beer, girls, golfing, skindiving, pink baseball team shirts, drink before you run, after you get a hit, catch a fly., or throw a ball. Was it just the beer, or just because we could? No rules, no fear, just guts and glory. Still love the girl I lived with for 6 months there. Only regret of my life, I left her there. Retired from Nat'l Guard, Sgt.1stClassE-7 1997 work for AW North Carolina, Japan based co. that builds transmissions for Toyota. Would love to hear from anyone during the 1971-1972 time frame.

Posted 4-11-05
John Spurgin   RMSA/RMSN  Dec. 74 to Apr. 76
Rec. Site and Fleet Center
OLDSCOOL1956@aol.com

I was stationed at San Miguel right out of "A" school......It was truly one of the best times of my life......It was an eye opening experience for an 18 year old kid who'd never really been anywhere.....I loved everything about that place.....the weather, the beer, the women, the guys I was stationed with......I had a house in San Antonio on San Estaban street.....Used to bomb around in either my ugly black Corvair, my green '55 Chevy, or my deathtrap of a Honda motorcycle.....Made alot of friends over there.....Greg Weiler, Mike Delano, Mike Thornton, Gary "Murf" Mann just to name a few.....First night there, Greg Weiler took me to the Crossroads......sitting in Annabelle's bar with some sweet thing straddling my leg.... I knew I'd been sent to the right place for me......Met my first wife over there....but that's another story......I have the fondest of memories for the base, the people, the locals, the weather......I still have dreams about being there from time to time.....would like to hear from people that were stationed there when I was.

Posted 4-11-05
Richard England RM3 1964-66
Ship/Shore Ckts
gtbru@staroute.com

Wish to have anyone who remembers me to drop me a line sometime. I do not have a computer but the email address given here..will get your responses to me. I have some photos of some of the guys at San Miguel..and will share them. I am retired from John Deere Tractor in Waterloo, IA. with 39 yrs...I am married with 2 grown children. Would like to get some input from you all about a future reunion somewhere. My home address is: Richard England 1034 W. 12th St. Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Call me at 319- 268 -1560.

Posted 4-11-05
Hank Buscher, SN/RM3/SN/JO3, 1966-67
Editor, South China Sea Sentinel
Hbuscher@lsbme.louisiana.gov

Never will forget this greatest job in all of the world.  Thanks again to RM1 Saxon, RM2 Say, Lt. Timm, Cdr. Tallet, the wild Capt. Romanick and others for helping me get kicked out of the Communications Building, Circuit Control, Message Relay.  Double thanks to the great folks at the Sentinel:  Lt. Chorak, Ens. Mann, photog Whaley, photog Fred, Catalina Torres, Jose Ubarco.  For just food and meds – no pay – I would do this job again.  God bless Chaplain Father Gibney, too, wherever he may be.   San Miguel Steamers coming through New Orleans, give me a buzz at 504-279-2581.    Honorable mention goes to Capt. Stankowski of the USS Mount Baker (AE-4) who got those radio sparks off my sleeve and gave me a shot at the JO exam.    Boo to the personnelman at San Miguel who gave me the RM3 exam that he said I passed (in only 45 minutes); I didn’t know crap, and he should have known that.  The Mount Baker captain found out in short order.

Posted 4-11-05
Jan Jacobs, LT, Dec 1975 - February 1977
Asst. Security Officer/Golden Anchors Mess Treasurer
janjacobs@mac.com

San Miguel was my shore tour after a sea tour in VF-21 as an NFO. Spend half of my time at the Consolidated Mess (the officer's and Chief's club) and half in security. Worked under LT Mike Simmons, the A-6 pilot who was the Security Officer. Worked alongside Chief Johnson and the rest of the security bunch. Remember playing a lot of intermural sports and was on the Varsity Basketball team... we were terrible... went 0-fer the season (lost the last game by one point ih the Subic Gym to the USS Samuel Gompers.) Was there for the Exchange burning down on Christmas 1975, the accidental bombing of the Capones, and the day-to-day intruders that spent more time inside the fence than outside. I remember Jim Southworth and his wife Andy. Karl Kopenhaver, his retired chief assistant at Special Services. CAPT Cannon the former F-8 driver and head of "Cannon's Kingdom" Gus Gullikson (spelling is terrible...), the all-Navy softball pitcher and editor of the base newspaper. Left the regulars after that tour, and finished 15 more years in the Reserves (10 in the cockpit at Miramar) before retiring in 1992. Am currently  the managing editor for The Hook magazine of The Tailhook  Association (http://www.tailhook.org)

Posted 4-11-05
Joe Stevens, RM2 1984 - 1988
augie_maru@yahoo.com

Terry Hill.. Need to talk with you. Drop me a line.

Posted 4-11-05
RM3 Beverly Freeman, ( BAMA),  82 - 86
rcaamano@ec.rr.com

Where are all the women that were station in San Miguel? We had a great time also. I married RM2 Rich Caamano (tech control) married 22 years. Someone mentioned RMCM Porter, he tortured me. Just wanted to say hi to all. We are now in Jacksonville, NC.

Posted 4-11-05
Carlton "Chris" Christian, MSgt USAF (RET), 1987 - 1989
NCSP San Miguel
lejChris2@hotmail.com

I really appreciate seeing the photos on your site. They truly bring back fond and vivid memories. I can finally show my 14 year old daughter a photo of her birth place (Cubi Air Station). Also, your 1990 photo of NCSP San Miguel is the only image of the effects of Mount Pinatubo that I've ever seen.  Thanks very much for the memory.

Posted 4-13-05
Joe Wagner, 7/1966 - 12/1968
jwagner@pioneerpools.net

My name is Joe Wagner. I was a CT5 “I” branch, stationed at San Miguel from 7/66 to 12/68, but spent most of that time on temporary duty in DaNang flying with VQ-1. I have many fond memories of the Crossroads, Olongapo and Manila, especially the Red Rooster in Manila. If anyone recognizes my name, send me a email.

Posted 6-14-05
Randy M, 1967 - 1968
chdir@alltel.net

Was stationed at Cubi  Pt circa 1967-68, used San Miguel "MARS" net to call home often. Knew RMCM Bill Mize from time he served at Reserve Training Ctr Hutchinson, Ks. Ran into him on phone from Cubi to San Miguel... Any one know of his whereabouts from 1968 on?

Posted 6-14-05
David Wallace  CYN3, 1967
dellaw@airmail.net

Bunked in barracks B  I think, anyway was barracks to left when coming out of commissary,1967  Worked in comshack, remember Jenkins or Junkins, in repair,Rocky Pool, (discharged same day). Chris Nelson, (folks lived in Florida and he was black belt), George Hardin, shipped out, and I bought his 55 Buick. Don't remember any more names right now.  Trying to find Chris Nelson and the other people who helped me get to sickbay when back popped out while putting gas in buick in front of commissary. Easy to remember the nut pouring gas all over himself 'screaming I can't move'  Don't remember any other names but I am hoping someone remembers it.  Would like to hear from you.  PLEASE  It is important and would appreciate your time. Anyone even hearing of it please help.   Please email. Thanks and hope all is well in your world now.

Posted 6-14-05
J. Steve "STRETCH" Allerding, CTO3,  JAN 1972 - JUNE 1973
ALPHA SECTION. Tech/Facilities Control
sallerding@neo.rr.com or john.allerding@us.army.mil or armydoc35@hotmail.com

I couldn't believe it when The Munchkin sent me this website and told me about this message board. SO MANY memories came flooding back as I read the messages, especially John McManus's note. So many names that are as familiar to me now as they were back in 72-73....Dennis "Munchkin" Devenport, Mike "Mario" Solimine, Len "Brandy" Brandois, John McManus, Richard "Skooch" Schoch, Paul "Jack the Snake" Jacobson, Jack McDermott, Brent "Senator" Ferguson, Frenchy Hayden, Mike Diamond, Paul Peyton, John Mosher, Roy Bowers, Bob Moyer, Steve Case, Wayne Smith, Carl "Boom Boom" LaBahn, Chuck Starr, Bob Carter, Jeff "Turkey" Karns, Chester Lloyd Lovely, Tommy Hartsock, Bill Martin, Jimmy Johnson.....everyone's favorite "rugrats"....The Stephenson Sisters (Bonnie, Cindy and Diane), Tina Elmore, Leona Brandeis....and my very favorite LIFER, Chief Dudley Elmore!  What a crew!!  Lots of good times down at "The Cross Roads" where the Grand Nautilus was my favorite bar and where I met the first love of my life...Reggie (Regalada Lasula Iligan)! Remember well, "Po Town" and Subic City, skeds, taking banca boats to dive off the Capone Islands, beers at the Nipa Hut and sunsets on San Miguel Beach. 2-2-2-80 watch schedule and spending much of our 80's down on the beach with the chow hall bringing picnic lunch down and trash cans full of ice and San Miguel Beers and frisbees and horseshoes, trips to Baguio City in the mountains and down to Manila, the base pool,  Enlisted Mens Club and Stag Bar Happy Hours, golf course, library and movie theater, softball games where sobriety was optional...I think I still have my pink shirt with the big blue "A" on it for Alpha Section....Did it really happen or was all of this just a DREAM???????  I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF THE OLD SECGRU FOLKS ABOVE. I got out in 73' and thought that I would NEVER have anything to do with the Navy again!!  I did, however, end up in the Army Reserves in 1982 while I was in medical school and I've been a soldier ever since!  Was activated for Desert Storm and spent 5 months in Saudi Arabia at an EVAC Hospital, did tours of duty in Germany during Bosnia and Kosovo, and just finished 10 months in the Horn of Africa on an Anti-Terrorist Task Force in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Made full Colonel in 2003 and not ready to retire yet. Doing Emergency Medicine on the civilian side. Married to Peg, for 19 years, and 2 sons...John (23) and Stevie (17) and two grandchildren! Peg and I love travelling on our Harley and usually get away each summer for a couple of weeks riding. E-MAIL me at:    and I WILL e-mail back!   COL John S. Allerding (formerly CTO3 Stretch Allerding - USN)

Posted 6-14-05
Woody Parks,  CT3 (R), Dec '64 - Jun '65
woodyparks61@yahoo.com (updated 5-14-10)

As you can see by the dates, my stay there wasn't very long.  That's because after 6 mos, I was transfered to the USS Oxford agtr-1.    Boy did I miss San Miguel and being on a land base.  You just had a lot more freedom on land than you do on a ship.  But, I got used to it and the ship contined to pull in to Subic and I got to see most of the ports in SE Asia.   I will never forget being there.   I will never forget when I first arrived there it was Christmas and the temp was about 85.  Then there were the Victory Liner rides down to Subic Bay .  And who could forget Olongapo. 

Posted 6-14-05
Howard Throngard, CTIC(NAC), Aug 71 - November 73
ENAHOW@aol.com

I arrived in San Miguel in 1971 after my first year in Phu Bai, thanks to my old Shipmate Richard Carpenter.  Much of the time between Sept 71-Feb 73 I was TAD back to Phu Bai or Da-Nang -- Did some sipping & singing with my old friend John P "Willie" Wilson at the old NCO Club in Phu Bai. Also tipped a few at Dirty Dans establishment in San Miguel... as well as making sure the San Migoo was fresh at Mona's Place -- After getting back to PI from Da-Nang in February 73 I put in my papers to marry my wife -- spent most of the rest of my tour as JOOD in Base Security.  Looking forward to a possible trip back to San Miguel country next year to sip a few.  (I was going to look up Dirty Dan but sadly learned that he recently departed on his final PCS.)

Posted 6-27-05
Richard Biro CTO, 1965 - 1966
wizard-rjb@hotmail.com (updated 8-8-05)

I worked at the antannae fields.  I remember some of the guys that I worked with.  They are:  Paul "Ozzie" Osborne, Dick Lange, "Big Mack" McClone, Jimmie Jones and Stan Hunsacker. I used to go to the "Nipa Hut" bar after work on base for cold San Miguel beer.  Hung out in Olongapo at numerous bars.  I can remember the East End Club as one of the raunchiest bars in town.  Throwing coins in the "Shit River" for the kids.  I went to Da Nang Vietnam and flew in VQ-1 aircraft and made seven missions.  I have some pictures of aircraft and personnel stationed with and pictures of the base during that time. Anyone who would like to contact me, please do so.

Posted 6-27-05
Geoff Denight, MWR Director 1980-1987
gdenight@yahoo.com or Geoffrey.denight@halliburton.com

Talk about bringing back some great memories! Seeing so many names that I recognize from my eight years in heaven was terrific. I ran the entire MWR Department but I’m sure that most of the diehards that were there during this same period remember me more for hosting the San Miguel Invitational Softball Tournament, or as one hard charging participant put it “the biggest meat market this side of Hawaii”. I remember all of you guys and the many road trips to the city, the barrio and Angeles. And who could forget the teams we put together and took to the Clark Softball Invitational. I’m not sure how much softball we played but the nights in Angeles were something to remember. Who was that SKC who got naked and danced on the bar in Angeles one night? After I left heaven I continued to work for DOD at NAS Adak, Alaska, NAVCOMMSTA Guam, FLTACT Yokosuka Japan and NSF, Diego Garcia. I then went to work for private contractors and spent time on Johnston Island, two years in Kuwait and now I’m working for KBR in the Green Zone, Baghdad iraq. I have 31 years in the MWR Business and I’m still loving it. I’ll be back in the Philippines for three weeks next March after I complete my current contract and before I return to Iraq.

Posted 9-18-05
John McManus, CTO3, 1971 - 1972,
Tech Control- Terminal Bldg. Alfa Section
jmcmanus@rilin.state.ri.us

Just wanted to pass this website along to anyone who has ever been stationed at San Miguel.  It is geared more towards the CT community, but the RM's and other rates will certainly recognize many names.  There are also great photos of NCSP....guaranteed to bring back many great memories.... www.anzwers.org/free/navyscpo/index.html Check it out!!

Posted 9-18-05
Jon  Hudson, CTTSN,  Oct '71 - June '72
Bravo section, Receivers
jjhudson@gbronline.com

Yes, I was there and can never forget it and have fond memories of the whole experience.  Worked as a "T-Bird" at receivers in the 2-2-2-80 off schedule.  Some of it comes back very near to me at times and I wonder if I 'll ever go back again. Took lots of photos and still have them to remember by.  Anyway, spent much time at the Crossroads (the Grand Nautilus, the Sampagita, Pink Elephant, the Suzanette) but my favorite was Teresa's Upscoop (hello, Mamasan).  Lived in San Antonio in '72 in two-bedroom apartment with a buddy and his girlfiend (Rick Neal and Virgie - where are you?) in the home of Domingo Fortillas on Clemencia Street; he was the pres. of the local tricycle "trikes" organization there at the time. Read one email here not long ago from a Navy retiree that today the streets in San Antonio are paved, with street lights and computer cables.  How times change !!
Made two trips to Manila via Victory Liner with two friends from Chicago (got pick-pocketed on the way back on one) so Mag ingat sa mga mandarukot !!  Also went to Subic often to shop and see the ships.  Anyone remember the dark ballcaps with "Gulf of Tonkin Yacht Club" on them?  Still recall eating the tacos and "bar-b-ques" at the Crossroads (was that monkey or dog we were eating?)  Mabuhays to Nancy from the "middle crossroads"and Jesse my houseboy from Foxtrot barracks. Paalam na, Jon,  ex-CTT2  USN(R)

Posted 9-18-05
Norman Schwartz, 1965 - 1966
nschwar3@optonline.net

I’m Norman Schwartz. I was stationed at San Miguel from January, 1965, to October, 1966. I was a CT3 upon arrival, CT2 at departure. Frank Romonick was the CO while I was there. I’m looking to speak with anyone who was there at that time.   I have some great memories and would like to share them.

Posted 9-18-05
Mike Kiefer YN/CT2, 1965
olebuzzard@seacove.net

Was here for a year before going to Navy ATCO at Clark.  I loved the "Roads".  Is there anyone who didn't bang Yolie?  We climbed the big mountain one Saturday.  Worked at COMSEC with Mr Borman, Buckner, Hanson, Russell.  Neighbor was John Wise (an I brancher). Frantic Frank Romanick.  My first typhoon.   Many trips to the Capones.There is  a movie coming out (Aug 05) called  The Great Raid.  My brother was one of the jumpers from the 11th Airborne into the Los Banos POW camp. Loved Bagio, Cavite City, and Po-Town.  Never tried balutes though.

Posted 9-18-05
Bob Hammond, RM3, 1967 - 1968
blrmblm@pacbell.net

Relay Center   Straight from "A" School, to San Miguel, port and starboard watches and then eve, day mid, 32;s.  Bravo Section. Was on watch when the Pueblo was attacked by the North Koreans.  Some crazy times.  The Crossroads, Olongopo City, Victory Liners to town, hiding from the Shore Patrol on overnights in town. Met some great people and some not so great. The PI was an eyeopener for a small town boy. Chief Jakeway, lighting tdy paper tape tails, Nino Ramos, Don Chappelle, Jerry Fields, the guys from Colorado, Phillips at the radio station.  God Bless

Posted 9-18-05
Dan Moran RM1, RMC, CWO2  June 1976 - June 1981
kranky@tampabay.rr.com

Chief in charge of Tech Control and OIC Ascomm Det Cubi   Just read a recent posting that said Dirty Dan has passed.  Does anyone know when and what happened? Also, I know there are still a lot of retirees living there, some I knew.  Can anyone post a list of the names/ranks of those retirees still living there and any others that may have died there after retiring?  I would appreciate it and am sure others would also be interested. Thanks

Posted 9-18-05
Carl Cooper, CTO3, January 1969 - June 1970
CDCOOPER99@aol.com

Worked at message center.  Found my wife of 34 years at the navy exchange.  I remember friends who later went TDY to Vietnam such as CTOs Teagarden and Wheeler.  Spent a lot of memorable evenings at the club with these guys.  Played in the navy band to get out of inspections.   Carl Cooper
(703) 317-9427 Home
(703) 626-5498 Cell
(703) 526-7532 Office

Posted 9-18-05
Jon Reid, LT, JAGC, Jan. 1977 - November 1978
jlreid@aeraenergy.com

I was stunned to find this site and look forward to its expansion and the possibility that it will reconnect me to some former shipmates (where are you, LNC Hank Smith?).  I served as the NCSP Staff Judge Advocate under Captains Wilson and Larabee for two years and had one of the best experiences of my life doing so.  Memory after memory arose as I read the entries here.  I will be back to update this brief entry; for now, I just wanted to log in.

Posted 1-24-06
Bill Taylor, CTR3, 1967 - 1968
wjt004@sbcglobal.net

My name is Bill Taylor, CTR3, stationed at San Miguel in 67 and 68. Was TAD on the USS Fox for short time then served with Det Bravo in Danang. I'm probably better recognized by nick name Guapo. I remember the Crossroads, Olongapo and the Red Rooster in Manila very well. After San Miguel I was stationed in Morocco.

Posted 1-24-06
John Felix, 1963-1964, 1994
johnmfelix@hotmail.com

Hi Everybody. My name is John Felix was stationed in San Miguel worked in relay, spent many nights in good old Olongapo. Had great times there and had great friends, many crazy nights. Was on watch the night of the Turner Joy & Maddox. Arrived at San Miguel fresh out of RMA school as Seaman and left RM3. If anybody out there remembers me please send e-mail and let me know how things are going.  At the present Time I live in Lansing Kansas.

Posted 1-24-06
Eldon John Farrington, Sgt., February 1985-July 1986
Detachment 2, SPISD, USAF
eldonjohn55@yahoo.com

I am so pleased to discover this website. I have so many memories, most of them good of San Miguel and the Philippines in general. I remember fellow Air Force members from 17 SURS and Det. 2 like it was just yesterday. Capt. George Field was my commander, my fellow laborers in Det 2 communications center were Kathy Hargrave, John Finch, Bryan Howell, Dave McCoy, and Don Warner our NCOIC. Plus all the great people we supported at the 17th Surveillance Squadron of Space Command. Some of the memories I'll never forget was when the locals who were employed on base went on strike and blockaded the base gates. Nobody could get on or off base. A helicoptor from Subic Bay flew us out to our worksite just 2 miles from the main base. I remember the jubilation of the locals when Ferdinand Marcos was ousted from office. The local cuisine off base was excellent, the locals were friendly. I remember one special local girl named Rebecca Miranda. I have thought of her alot. I recall playing on the softball team called THE LEFTOVERS, the 6.0 earthquake that rattled the base and had me looking at the South China Sea for any incoming sunamis, riding in trykes, jeepneys, and the infamous victory liners that carried everybody and everything..including animals. I also recall my friend Doug Morris and me getting scammed in Olongapo. We learned a hard lesson that day. Basically, San Miguel was a tropical paradise on the south china sea..and I really miss it. Its a shame that people often don't appreciate how good they have it until its over. God willing, I hope to return for a visit someday...maybe to marry a beautiful filipina.

Posted 1-24-06
CTO3 Ron Miller, Tech control, 1970 - 1971, 1972 - 1977
Ronmiller48866@yahoo.com

1970 - 1971, Tech control, Cant remember which watch section.  Worked with John Warren and few others before my trip to Vietnam. RM3/RM2 1972-1977 Tech Control Delta Section, worked with quite a few people over the years, have had recent contact with many friends mostly in San Diego. I retired 1990 and now teaching college in Michigan.  Nancy, Obryhim read your posting...cool...Remember Lil Nancy..G.. she was my division chief last ride before retirement.. Uss Jason. Dennis Baily, Remember the Ole TTY shop, accross the
door from Tech control....Remember a few faces from the era, but hard to place names.... Ron Miller  Drop me a line anyone if you like. Take care and have a wonderful life, sounds like good time to call for the reunion in kansas jul 2006... seen it posted someplace near this page.

Posted 1-24-06
Helen West,  RMSR - ITC, 1985 - 1986
west@act.nato.int

Work in the Fleet Message Center My first naval command. Never even heard of the Phillipines. Just a dot on the map with a number to identify it as your new home for x amount of years. Throughout my tour, I have met some wonderful people: Genie, Wes (I always loved you), TJ, Tim, Brother B, Tim Napper (my big Boo), Craig D, Greg T, Janice, Curtis, Les, Rhonda, LaPrei, Joe Penn ( My PI husband).... I miss you guys!!!!!. We had some good times...I remember this big Samoan Chief..he was kooler than a fan!!!!..remember those Full Period Terms and the O/W dwn to Rcvr site ( int zbz olongpo..int zev)...ha ha ha ha....and lets not forget that DCT-9000....and all that paper tape...can anyone still do a butterfly role...on a hogger???!!!!....L...O...L...22 years later, and I am still here....buzz me guys It will be good to hear from you. Hey Barnett your email addy does not work...got a new one?

Posted 1-24-06
Bart "Del" Delaney, CTO3, jan.68-July 69
del49@yahoo.com

Worked in the terminal building.  Handled "tech control" for most of my tour.  Went tad to the USS Intrepid for a couple of months…great times at the Nipa Hut, Crossroads, Eagles Nest, Old Jolo. Victory Liners.  Its funny how the majority of us had the "best" times of our lives over there.  When I came back to the world, no one would believe me, that’s why this message board is so great.  Looking for buddies I served with over there.  There was a red head Marine CTO that I was friends with and a lot of other guys that I lost names and addresses for.  I remember Angus Basham from the radio station.  Worked in Charlie section mostly did the eve, day, mid 56 type duty.  Remember the burn details at 4 in the morning and busting the boots having them look for a "box of dities" or having them re-roll the tdy carbon paper.  Would love to hear from guys and share stories.

Posted 1-24-06
Tim Fincher, RM1 (RET), 1984-1987
TECH CONTROL, R-SITE
teebubba@yahoo.com

AM now working in the philippines again, went to the old base last year, lots of memories, golf course is better. Philippine navy using the base and their training center. Crossroads look the same, a few more trees but basically the same. Have a new wife her, and a new daughter. Look forward to hearing from those who remember me.

Posted 1-24-06
Bob Ritenour CTM2, 1967 - 1969
bob1024@verizon.net

My name is Bob Ritenour CTM2, I was Stationed at San Miguel from Feb 1967 to Feb 1969. I live on Base housing with my wife and Daughter. My sponsor was Bob Lakota. I remember a few names, Richard Sibley CTM3 , Chief Little and my mind is a complete blank now for names. I worked at the receiver Bld.

Posted 1-24-06
Jim Gray, 1966 - 1968
jkgray@cox-internet.com

My name is Jim Gray.  I was a CT3 stationed in San Miguel from Sept. 66 to Sept. 68.  I've only become internet literate lately and found San Miguel on google search.  I played first base on the softball team that went to Hawaii in June of 67.  I can remember all their names.  One I have been trying to get in touch with was my best friend and short stop, Ronnie Andrews from Savannah, Georga.  I would love to hear from someone.  Thanks.

Posted 1-24-06
Steve Jacobsen, RM1 1985 - 1988
Supervisor Tech Control
steve@the-jacobsens.com

Wow! I've searched for San Miguel a lot over the years. Don't know how I missed this one. Remember the sign at the pool? "Country Club of the Navy" That wasn't a lie either. I remember playing golf at 7:00am after getting of watch and buying shrimp fresh off the boats. Glen Siedls wife was the best cook in the world. She could do things with beef ribs that I didn't know was possible. Pepe, do you remember taking Road trips. Riding the bikes up to Hundred Islands was a blast. Check in with me if you were there with me!

Posted 1-24-06
Alan Eldridge, CTRCS (ret), 1965 - 1967
eldridge@shentel.net

I just got an e-mail from an old shipmate who is trying to help out another DaNang Vet. If any of you remember an ATCS by the name of Shannon R. Sharpe who was TDY to DaNang with VW-1 (they were co-located with VQ-1) in 1968-1970. He needs help verifying his in-country service. His address is P.O.Box 8461 Lancaster Calif 93539. 

Posted 1-24-06
Arnie Turnquist, RMC, Fleet Center Tape Relay, April 1960 - April 1962
arnie99@earthlink.net

Looks like no one on the message board goes back quite as far as I do at San Miguel.  I remember it as one of the great shore duty stations in my career.  Names that come to mind are CTC Sam Massengale, RMCS "Pete" Peterson, and RMC Art Baldwin. There are many more but the names escape me. (At this point in my life a lot escapes me!) The CPO Club was one of the best I've been in.  Small of course, but we had one whale of a good time in that club.  Learned how to play Acey/Duecy from Sam and also playing a lot of horse collar.  Bingo nights where especially fun.  As I recall there was an outside movie area where you could bring the whole family.  Lots of partys at the club, and as I remember (vaguely) we even had some "typhoon" partys.  Chiefs' initiations were also a blast.  (If those things were done today like they were back then, most of the people involved would be up on charges).  My youngest son Bryan (who just recently retired as a BMCS) was born during my tour there.  Another fond memory is when a bunch of us Chiefs decided we would approach the CO about the possibility of building a golf course there.  (Damned if I can remember the name of the CO back then)  At any rate, he agreed so a bunch of us Chiefs met at the Chiefs' Club one Saturday morning and, after finishing our Bloddy Mary breakfast, we all took a club or two out into the boon docks that bordered the O Club on up to the T Bldg.  We would hit a ball and decide where it landed eventually would be a good spot for a green and we would sink an old coffee can in the ground and put a bamboo pole in it, and so on until we had nine holes layed out.  Using cheap local labor and a lot of support from the CO, Public Works, and Special Services, the finished product was a nice little 9-hole course with sand greens.  I really enjoyed the hell out of that.  Most of us golfers had been running back and forth to play the course up at Subic and I would guess most of you know that's not the most pleasant drive in the world.  As an aside, I had an opportunity to visit San Miguel in 1980 and the course (then named the South China Sea Golf Club) was a beautiful 18-hole course with grass greens.  Who would have thought a bunch of drunken Chiefs would have started such a magnificent thing!!  I can also remember taking my watch section out to the crossroads after a midwatch for "breakfast."  Sam also recruited and trained me to umpire little league so I did that during my tour as well and loved every minute of it.   One other thing worth mentioning is that on Xmas night 1960, my wife and I were returning from Subic Bay where we had gone to drop off an old shipmate who was visiting us, and on our return back to the base about 2300, someone had put a bamboo barricade across one of the little one lane bridges in the Castellejos area near San Marcalino.  My wife was driving so she stopped.  I figured we were going to be robbed because that had happened a few times before to those who ventured off base after 2000.  As I was leaning over to put my billfold under the seat, someone opened up with small arms fire and riddled the car.  I took a round through my right shoulder and another round grazed my scalp.  My wife instinctively floor boarded the old Kaiser, and smashed through the barricade and got us to the base.  She definitely saved my life that night.  We both wound up in the hospital at Cubi Point for a few days and were released in time to spend the New Year celebration in the Chiefs Club.  Needless to say, that is a Xmas I will remember for a long, long time.  I went on to complete a 35 year career and retired as COW4 in March 1987.  San Miguel ranks up there as one of my favorites.

Posted 1-24-06
Charles (Chuck) Ingerson, CTSA/SN/3 (R), Ret MSG USA, San Miguel, 1963 - 1964
ing123@tds.net

Hi - was at San Miguel - May 63 - June 64.  If we met it would've been on the beach - playing tennis or basketball or bowling - was a lousy golfer.  I was 18 when I arrived.  My first watch shift was with Charlie Marshall, Charlie Moser and Pete Kearney.  Other names - Capt. Marks (USMC) - SC Lippert - Some would know the RM1C who was killed in the plane crash at Clark - Nichols?  We were good friends - bowling and running the clubs.  He was responsible for the acey/ducey and I was responsible for the EM Club on the Board.    James Thompson was the person in the same cubical - remember the double decker bunks?    Willie Wheeler and I went to the Valdez after leaving the PI - and Fountain joined us in the next crew change.    There was an RM - swimmer from California who took the WSI course with me - and we helped run the swimming at the pool, etc.    Look forward to hearing back from there at the same time - my call is KE4LGD - but am seldom ever on line - a couple of Hams were going to help me get set up - but it got waylaid somewhere.    Life is considerably slower now - 9 MI's - out of warranty since 2nd CABx2 in '84 at Walter Reed.  Spend most of my time in the woods/swamps or writing/reading.   We live in SE GA

Posted 1-24-06
Wayne J. Reynolds, PN2/CTO2, 1959 - 1960, 1963 - 1965
RPS YEOMAN, MESSAGE CENTER, RELAY CENTER
juniorreynolds@earthlink.net

I was station in San Miguel as the second tour in the PI.  Was stationed at VU5 DET ALFA the first tour from 1959-1960 as a PN2.  I changed my rate to CTO2 and got married and received orders back to the PI. Both tours were good and memorable ones.

Posted 1-24-06
Barry Solomon, 1964 - 1966
barry@kayaresource.com

Hi all, My name is Barry Solomon. I was editor of the base newpaper, the Sentinel, from 1964-66. My rank was JO3. I came to Navcommstaphil undesignated and not knowing what I would be doing there..The personnel officer put me to work at the base radio station (tough job) and then later I moved on to become editor for the newspaper and strike for Journalist. Those were fun times...Reading the messages brings it all back...The crossroads, Olongapo, the jeepneys, the San Miguel's, and of course the frantic Capt Frank M. Romanick. I always wanted to go back there over ther years, but have not made it....I think it was New years of 65..we put on an all night oldie but goodies show to bring in the new year...I came in from the Crossroads about 12:30Am with a few San Miguels under my belt...I went to check on the radio show and ended up before the microphone wishing everyone (including our Filopino friends listening off base) a merry christmas and happy new year....Somehow, after asking our technician Mario, how to say this in Tagalog, I ended up saying on behalf of the US Navy, Merry Christmas and a hang it in your ass. this did not bode too well with Capt Romanick (someone taped the show and sent a copy to the Exec)...Well, I got kicked out of the radio station, but they put me on the newspaper...and eventually got back to the station as well.....those were fun times....I remember Clem the photographer, and Bruce, the 18 year old kid from Iowa, and Lt Chorak, Lt Hanson, Fred the photographer..Mario Guillermo, and Catalina Torres and Jose Ubarco at the newspaper...and what ever happened to my pals David McMurry and Masterson (boom a rack boom)...Am married now in San Francisco with a new 21month old daughter...Also, have a couple grown kids and even a 10 year old grandson...would be great to hear from anyone that might have been around during those times.

Posted 1-24-06
Mike Kious, CTSN, 1969
Mikekious@aol.com

Hey there, shipmates! I went to San Miguel after “A” school, arriving on New Year’s day 1969. I spent about 10 days in “X” division mostly putting out grass fires.  After that it was off to receivers and SecGru Bravo as an R brancher.  I bunked in the same cubicle with Lou Barduca and Greg Riznor, and a few other guys whose names I can’t recall.  I became good friends with Russ Goplin, who managed the enlisted men’s club for quite awhile.  Mostly, we just went to the beach a lot, taking banca boat rides out to Capones Islands.  I only went to Manila once, and that was with Carl Brezak.  Later I volunteered to go TAD and was assigned to the USS Oriskany in June 1969, and then the USS Ranger from November 1969 to the end of April 1970, whereupon I returned to San Miguel for one month before rotating to "C" school.  My friends out on the Ranger were Joe Miller and Dick Howells.  I also remember a wonderful guy named Chief Ogden.  If any of you remember , shoot me an email.

Posted 1-24-06
RMC Ron Hudgens (Retired), Tech Control, 1979 - 1982
rhudgens@optonline.net

Worked in the terminal building both in the Tech Control Center and the front office for Tech Control. One of my supervisors was ARCHIE MANNING. Boy I hated him. Anyway. I drank allot of San MIguel, shot pool out in town, went to the club allot. Had a very good friend named Greg Byerly who's wife used to spend all his paycheck at the slot machines and there was nothing left at the end of his shift. I used to get him in trouble by taking him to Subic City all the time and getting him home the next morning. My first ex wife used to hang down in Alongapo. She was quite the free spirit, you might say.   I remember the Navy urinalysis program began while I was there. I was on a bowling team. We did okay. I loved my bungalow house not far from the beach entry area that had a cabana and bbq pits. The caponi boats would be lined up there for people who wanted to go snorkel or look at the Spanish Lighthouse.  Allot of good stuff in my memory. I was a partier for sure.

Posted 1-24-06
Carl Holgate, RMSN/RM3/RMSN/RMSA , 1965 - 1967
holgateart@yahoo.com

For the year and a half I spent at San Miguel I was stationed at the Receiver Site under a Master Chief named McClearon (not sure that is the correct spelling, however anyone who knew him knows who I am referring to).  I entered the Navy with all intentions of making a career of it…  The chief changed my mind real quick!  After leaving San Miguel I was assigned to the USS Kitty Hawk.   I was, by all standards, the perfect example of a drunken sailor, hence the change in rank while there. I would like to hear from all who served during the time I did, especially those who served at the Receiver Site.

Posted 1-24-06
Bob Napoli, 1959 - 1961
robco@optonline.net

What can you say that hasn't been said...I was there from 59--61...(also did some TAD on the LEX, and the TICONDEROGA)....if there was a better duty station for a CT, I don't know of it...it was the weather, the greenery, the people, and of course the SHIPMATES who shared the wonderful experiences with you...I really wasn't too crazy about ditty chasing especially on the mids, when I just couldn"t keep my eyes open, but I sure liked the country...Had a small bike, and if you made a left out of the gate instead of the right to Olongapo (hope I have my directions correct), you came upon some of the most spectacular beaches you would ever want to see....but alas, as with all of us, those are fond memories that will live with those of us who experienced them for the rest of our lives...glad to hear from any shipmates from that era.

Posted 1-24-06
Wendell B Brooks, RMSA-RMSN, Feb 77 - May 78
Receiver Site - Message Center
WendellBrookjs@hotmail.com

I play one the Comets 1978 Comusnavphil Championship Basketball team. Just a shout out to all and email me if you remember me.

Posted 1-24-06
Brian Becker, (RMC Ret), RMSN, 2-1963 to 9-1964
Petoskey@Cox.net

Started out in Torn Tape Relay and 7 months later ended up at the receiver site as the NTX operator.  When the CW guys would come back from liberty and drunk I would sit the CW circuits.  At one point the Chief in Charge got mad at the CW Operators because I was taking more messages than they were.  I took the first CW message from the USS Maddox and the USS Turner Joy that seemed to kick off the Vietnam War.  I also got in trouble for putting “4Q” on the order wire to Tech Control.  I didn’t know what that met at the time.  Certainly did about two minutes after I sent it.  Would like to hear back from people that were stationed at NCS Phil during this period.  I retired after 23 years and live in San Diego.

Thought I died... didn't you! Marines are to damn stuburn to die! ;-)

Posted 3-15-09
Bill Leppert, 1966-1967
memphis@stjoelive.com

I arrived at San Miguel in July of 1966 and left in Oct of 1967.  I spent 6 mos TAD with Det Bravo at DaNang (Feb-Aug 1967)  I was a CT "O" branch.  I have many memories of PO Town and the Crossroads.  Went snorkeling out at the Capone Islands.  Almost met my fate when I got caught in an ocean current and the Filipino who brought me out there came out to get me in his bonka (sp?) boat.  I have too many memories to mention in this narrative.  I'm happy to have found this website.  To all of those who served at San Miguel I ask, kamusta ka?  Mabuti?  Got to sigi..   Bill Leppert St Joseph, MO

Posted 3-15-09
Jerry Sturdivant, Seaman, 1957 - 1959
jerryst@cox.net

I was on the San Miguel base from Dec 1957 till about late 1959. I was a CT-R (Communication Technician) Radioman. About 5-miles north of the base was a building housing communications gear. About 3-miles further north was the Radio Direction Finding building. That's where I worked as a radioman (Morse code).

Posted 3-15-09
Brian "BT" Temple, RM1 (RET), 1978-1979, 1981-1983, 1987-1991
Tech Control Facility
brian.temple@verizonbusiness.com or tickraw@cox.net

I am so glad I found this site/message board. I have so many awesome memories over the 3 tours (8 years) at San Miguel. I guess you could consider me lucky! My proudest accomplishment is that I didn't get married until my 3rd tour! I did get taken to the cleaners by several other female acquaintances over the years, but that's part of the fun! Who remembers "sunrises"?

I retired in 1997 and have been an employee with what used to be Worldcom/MCI Worldcom/MCI and now Verizon Business in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I met my wife, Elsa in Hong Kong when I was on the Blue Ridge and we just made it 18 years. We have one daughter, Samantha, who is a freshman at John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Arkanas. I have truly been blessed.

Phil Akridge is around here also. He is working at Williams Communications in Tulsa. Tommy Carlson just moved from Oklahoma to San Diego a couple of months ago. There are so many people I remember from over the years. Too many to mention. My best times were running Angeles City and hitting 100% Rock in Olongapo with Danny Kisor, Steve Varner, Astro and the others. Our Father Band and Gary Perez & the Defenders were amazing! Danny has to be the luckiest man alive because Sally is such an awesome lady! She partied right along with us and it wouldn't have been as fun if she hadn't.

I better stop now. Too many memories flooding my head. If anyone is interested in contacting me, email me.

Posted 3-15-09
Phil Gates, Seaman, E-3, 1978 - 1979
ACB-1 Detachment A-3 T.A.D. to CBMU 302
golfpunk500@comcast.net

Just looking to see if any of my old buddies ever look on the net to see if anybody is posting anything.  Detachment A-3 was "stationed dito" for about 6 months at Subic Bay Navel Base. Probably the most fun a 19 year old kid can ever have in a lifetime or two.   Remember...Seabees can do nothing, ask any P.I. hooker.

Posted 3-15-09
Gwen Adkins Denson, Dependent of Lt Dee Adkins, 1962 - 1964
octoberopal28@yahoo.com

My name is Gwen Adkins Denson. I was at San Miguel as dependant child of my father, Lt Dee Adkins, USN (Ret).  We were in San Miguel from 1962 - 1964.  I believe my father was the Comms Officer or Ops Officer, not really sure.  My father passed away in May 1978.  I just happened upon this website and was extremely interested. I am sure we have pictures that I could scan and send.  I know for sure of one where my father and Capt Gaw (the CO at the time) were holding inspection. I went to Oliver Hazzard Perry Elementary School and my brother was bused to George Dewey High School at Subic. It was an interesting several years.

Posted 3-15-09
Fred McCarter RMCS (RET), Summer of '63 through Feb '65
RMSN at the time at NCSP San Miguel
mccartfl@wavecable.com

Would like to hear from anyone who was there during that time and remembers me, especially would like to hear from David Marshall. I worked in the message center practically my whole tour.  I still have wonderful memories of my time there, time spent in the Crossroads during it's peak, two-two-two and 80 hrs off spent in Olongapo and Manila. Riding the Victory Liners. Cinderella liberty and riding the Navy bus back to San Miguel after midnight, eating those hot dogs bought on the mad dash back across the bridge to the Subic Main Gate. God knows what was in those things. The big typhoon of '64 that almost blew San Miguel away. The Tonkin Gulf incident that changed our lives at San Miguel forever and put us in Port and Starboard for damn near a year.   Wow!    Seems like just yesterday. I retired in November of '82 and stayed in government service by landing a job with the U.S. Postal Service and now I'm near retirement again (another 6 months).  Would love to hear from any of you guys out there that remembers those wonderful days.

Posted 3-15-09
David Parton, RMSN - RM3, 1963 - 1964
Navcomsta phil San Miguel ship to shore duty
drprhs61@mchsi.com

Hey guys I just found this web site and it sure brings back some good memories.  I don't remember a lot from back then but do remember Subic Bay and Alongapo where I spent a lot of time while not sitting ship to shore duty at San Miguel.  That may be why I don't remember a lot from back then.  If anyone was there around 63 - 64 and worked the ship to shore duty drop me a line and pass along any names you can remember maybe that will jog my memory.  I remember riding the big old cattle trucks to work and seems like we worked a swing shift at the receiver site.  Must have been three shifts with two of every three weekends off or something like that.  Give me holler if you remember me or want to just swap some stories.

Posted 3-15-09
Jerry Sturdivant, 1957 to 1960
Radio Operator RDF
jerryst@cox.net

I was stationed there just after it opened. It wasn't long before they went through a money change. For you younger ones, we used script in place of American money, which was outlawed (so the commies and "Huks" wouldn't get any). We could black-market a $10 script for 27 to 30 pesos off base. The locals that had kin in the service were allowed to shop the PX in Subic on Thursdays and script went a long way for them. Anyway, the money change was done about every two years and was top secret. It was to replace the script with new script and leave the black-marketed money as worthless. No leave or liberty until the change.

We had one murder while I was there. Seems the marines would patrol off the base and occasionally shoot a local cow (caribou) and hang it in the mess hall freezer. (The head cook was a drunk and got his cut of the meat). Anyway, one of the marines was cut out of the deal and didn't like it, so he turned the others in. Then next time they did jungle maneuvers, they droned him. I was on the search detailed. We had to hold hands and wade the muddy rice patty runoff (and dodge the snakes), feeling for him with our feet. He was found dead after about an hour.

Out door movies were great. Two movies each night. A new one and one from the night before.

I was a radioman and worked the RDF (Radio Direction Finding) shack that was beyond the regular radio shack, next to the antenna field, about a mile or more north of the base. Just before I left they were changing from communicating with the net using Morse Code to using teletype. No more brass pounding.

Posted 3-15-09
Fred L. McCarter RMSN, Jul ’63 – Feb “65
Message Center
mccartfl@wavecable.com

I’m amazed to find this great website and surprised that it’s been so long since the last entry to the message board. Hope it’s still active. If there’s anyone out there that remembers me, please get in touch with me and we can share our memories. I have lots of wonderful memories of San Miguel, the Crossroads, San Antonio and Po Town. A lot of years have passed since those days (41 years now), and a lot of my memories seem like fantastical dreams. Between the arduous watch schedules (port and starboard for a long time), the lack of proper rest in the weeks and months after the Tonkin Gulf incident and the sometimes strange affect that San Miguel had on me, well, Hell, part of those memories just might be figments of my imagination. What do ya think?    Nahhhh !     It all really did happen. Didn’t it? We all worked hard, played hard and had the time of our young lives during a very stressful and memorable time in history. I met a wonderful girl there and married her in Feb 1965 and we’re still together and still crazy in love after 41 years. After 20 years in the Navy, I retired in October of 1982 as RMC(AC). My wife, Connie and I have lived in Washington State since retirement from the Navy and I’m preparing for a second retirement from the U.S. Postal Service in September 2006. Hope to hear from someone soon.

Posted 3-15-09
Eric Schiller, RMC (Retired), 1969 - 1970
rmcews@earthlink.net

Hi, My name is Eric Schiller (ES) (chops). I worked at Navradsta (R) San miguel from June 1969 Till Dec 1970... I was a little Guy then, With a Big Mouth.. I loved tunning R390's/1051's..And working Ship to Shore Orestes with the 7th fleet. Also liked the Cross Roads!!! (Who Didn't at 19)..If anyone remembers me I would love to hear from You.....Int qrk/zbo-2 forever....  

Posted 3-15-09
Rob Cook ET3, ET2, February '89 - February '91
(Tech control & Radio Central)
kb3ich@gmail.com

I've been searching off and on for a few years for any site that had anything to do with San Miguel.  Hi to everyone that has trampled the same ground.  I saw a couple of names in the posts that brought back lots of good memories.  If anyone wants to get in touch, please do., and can't forget the mobile radio shop.

Posted 3-15-09
Dick Kimmins, JO3, 1971 - 1972
DJ on AFRTS station at the base
DKimmins@burnip.com

That was great duty, just minutes to the beach and the golf course, where I learned to play and did so most mornings. My "duty" at the radio station started after lunch. I handled two programs while there. For the first six months or so I DJ'ed a 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. program and the last eight months or so I did a nightime stint from 9 p.m. to midnight. Somebody was always at the station in case the Armed Forces Radio feed from Subic was disrupted, and we were supposed to punch in a local ID tape precisely at 59:45 minutes after the hour to identify our signal. We had a very talented ET who hung around the station quite a bit who rigged up a tape that automatically would play that local signal identifies at the correct time. That means one of us didn't have to wake up or get off our butts to stick the cart into the player and hit the button at the correct time. Our chief rarely came around, spending most of his time at the Chief's Club with his JO1 sidekick or down at the crossroads. Somebody also taught me how to sail one of those twin-hulled catamaran's out to those islands just off the coast. Man - that was a good time stationed there. Smooth sailing to all who remember it as I do!

Posted 3-15-09
Don Gowdy, 1963 - 1965
DGowdy8905@aol.com

My name is Don Gowdy.  I was stationed at San Miguel in 1963-65.  I arrived at the base as a CT striker and left as a third class petty officer.  I worked at the site in the COMSEC division which pretty much sucked except for the fact that I worked with a bunch of pretty good guys.  I got stuck there because my final security clearance took a long time to come through.  When I was at San Miguel there were two enlisted barracks in addition to the Marine barracks.  I bunked in one directly across the street from the swimming pool and close to the chow hall.  I have a lot of fond memories of the place.  Sucked up plenty of San Miguel beer out at the Crossroads.  I remember a bar called the Pink Elephant where we would spend time in during afternoons.  It was there that I learned how to do that native dance with the bamboo poles.  It sounds something like the "tininkling" but I don't have a clue how that would be spelled.  A lot of our nights were spent at a bar further into the village that sat back off of the road in the trees.  I don't remember the name of it but it was owned by a lady named Mrs. Brown.  She was a great person - we called her mama.  When I left the PI she barbecued a whole pig and threw a helluva party.  On into the village there was a sari-sari store that had a sign out front that advertised "Coldest Damn Beer in the PI". I think that was probably true.  Also spent a bunch of time down in Po Town.  Can't remember the names of any bars.  I do recall the Club Oro that is mentioned several times in this message board.  When I was there the dancers did their thing totally nude.  I guess that apparently Mayor Gordon outlawed that after I left the area.  Looking back I realize how great of a tour that was and how lucky I was to get stationed in a little piece of paradise.

Posted 3-15-09
Alex B. Calangan, MSgt, USAF (Ret.), February 1982 – February 1985
calangan@sbceo.org

Just wanted to say hello to fellow U.S. military members who served in the old San Miguel Naval Communications Station, especially to the old members of 17th SURS and Det 2 (and also to the G.E. contractors). My family and I had good times and memories during our assignment there and living downtown San Antonio. 

Posted 3-15-09
Allan Eaton II, (Dependent of Lt. Allan Eaton), Stationed 1964 - 1966
AEatonii@aol.com

Was curious if any of you remember my father. I believe he worked under the base commander and was also involved with out-reach activities in the PI communities.Our family also became lifelong friends with Father Peter Kenny, a Roman Catholic priest who worked both on the base but also had a parish in a local town. My mothers name is Joan and  our family had 3 kids when we arrived and 4 when we left. My fathers next station after San Miguel was Naval Attache in London and then Quonset Point, Rhode Island. He retired from there in 1972 as a Lt. Commander. He passed away in 2001. I have nothing but great memories of our time in San Miguel - day trips to the Capones Islands, swimming at the pool, the hot beach sand, the outdoor movie theater with fresh popcorn at the O club, dressing up our bikes for the parades, waiting for Sears catalog orders to come in. Please drop me a line if might have any comments.

Posted 3-15-09
Robert Kushlan, RM1 (Ret), 1963-65, 1967-70, 1973-76
rkushlan@yahoo.com

My name is Robert Kushlan, RM1 (Ret)   I was stationed at the torn tape relay at the height of the conflict.  I was there in 1963-65, 1967-1970, and 1973-1976.  I was transferred all over the place, but on my first duty, I was at the transmitter site at Capas, Tarlac for 9 months, then in the torn tape relay center with all of those backlogs that we had to ship out to airplanes to get them delivered.  On the second tour, I was transferred to the Electronics repair facility at Cubi Pt to be a crypto repair technician.  We just hunted wild boars during the mid watch there!!!  On the third tour, I was stationed at Capas, Tarlac again for six months, then I was sent back to San Miguel for the torn tape relay center again.  I remember that old computer (the 1004)  That thing did zip along.  Then I was transferred out to be the chief in charge of the receivers site for a few months and then I was in the Master-At-Arms force for awhile.  I ended my tour at San Miguel with a stint at the South China Sea Sentinal.  Had a lot of fun and worked with a lot of great people.  Wish it were that way again!

Posted 3-15-09
Scotty (Jim Scott) sometimes known as the "HUK", 1966 - 1967
jimscott@frontiernet.net

Was at San Miguel from Jan 66 to Sept 67. Best Duty I ever had anywhere anytime any service. Got out of Nav in Sept of 69 went to college and later got in National Guard. Retired in Jan 06 as a Captain. Have spent lots of time as an NCO and several years as an officer. Have commanded an Ordance Company, Civil Affairs Cell, Artillery Battery and spent two tours as a Battalion Adjudent(S-1) , I have a total of 36 years 9 months and two days in the Military. BUT still the best time and best duty was at San MIguel. still think about the PI every once in a while and really enjoy this site. Would really like to make the Reunion in Kansas in July and if any of the folks thatwere there when I was, would urge them to attend also, sounds like a good time. Mabuhi!

Posted 3-15-09
Ronald G. Kukal, 1960 - 1962
rckukal@actaccess.net

Name is Ronald G. Kukal and a former CTT3 when stationed at San Miguel. In looking through the message board I didn't find many who were there then. Maybe one or two. I spent the first three months on the base and went to the beach when I wasn't working.  Then one day someone introduced me to a certain city outside the gates of Subic. That was it for me, and I practically lived in Olongapo when I wasn't working.  I worked for a Chief Breland and I remember him well. He used to light a cigarette with a match in the morning and never had to waste another match the rest of the day for his next cigarette. Went to his house one Christams for a party, and the Chief had it all, as I knew he would. Ran around with Dick Galla, Bob Just,  and a few others that don't come to mind right now. Would like to hear from anyone who recognizes my name. I certainly enjoyed my time there as I shipped over right at that duty station.  Just couldn't get enough of it. 

Posted 3-15-09
Rickey J.C. Reed CTO3 Sept 1971-Dec 1972
Bravo Section (Relay Center)  
Rsmm1234@aol.com

Was in Bravo Section relay center (Chief Wendal Reeves). Worked with George Machado, Paul Hahn, Bob Hogsed, Ron Crumpler, Mike (Quincy) Quinlivian, Hurpleshimer, Paul Eickman, and many others.   Remember starting out of the E.M. Club (Wayne D. May Club) then heading down to the crossroads for a short stop before jumping a mini-bus and doing the all night sked at Subic City (El Pariso).   Loved every minute of it and miss everything I had going at that time.  I went back twice (1974 & 1978) and visited San Miguel. 1974 was still nice and stayed on base with Mike & Francis Quinlivian and had a nice time. I Let the best girl in my life slip away from me.    If you know me or about any of my mates, please drop me a line.   CU ar 

Posted 3-15-09
Alex B. Calangan, MSgt (Ret.), USAF
17th SURS, February 1982 – February 1985
calangan@sbceo.org

This is a very excellent site to keep in touch with old buddies. I just want to say hello to everyone who served with the old 17th SURS & Det 1.

Posted 3-15-09
Bob Young, CTT3, 10/66 - 4/68
byhy@comcast.net

Spent the first 4 months in section "D"elta (Chief Crawford) and then moved to section "B"ravo. As I was reading the message board alot of old memories were coming back.  Many nights at the cross roads, Olongapo, Caponies islands, etc.  There were girls at the EM club called the Starlite Sparklers. A couple trips to Manila.  Taking Karate on base (Ramos and Fredie), playing softball and flag football. We had a captain of the base who used to wave instead of salute, so we waved back. Looking for a good friend, Billy Rogers from Cleveland Tenn. area.  I met with Sandy Brintle while in North Carolina about three years ago.  It is always great to see old friends.  If anyone was there at this time I would like to hear from you.

Posted 3-15-09
Chuck Kowalsky, RMCM USN Ret - Tech Control, 1964 - 1966
C.Kowalsky@adelphia.net

Have many fond memories of San Miguel, the good people I met, some still with us and others... gone to the Big Circuit Control in the Sky.   I remember RMC Sam Cassidy (now gone), RMC Leroy Ackerman (also gone) I was also stationed with Leroy on board the USS Hamilton Country (LST 802) flagship for Minflot One 1957-1961.  He was an outstanding RM and a great person.   Also  RMCM Pat Finnegan - retired and living in Michigan, RMCM Leroy Lange retired and believe still somewhere in the San Diego area.  RM1 Pappy Shaw, LT Mike Peyton, retired in Oklahoma City, Capt Frantic Frank Romanick, RMC "Dutch" Schultz(?), LT Dan Martin, retired in WashDC area(he was a CYN worked tech cntl), RMC Bob Grist, RMC Rona Green (no longer with us), RMC Miles, there are many more that I can picture but the names are gone....    I was TDY to Danang, Vietnam with our ATCU 100a vans in 65 in support of the Marine 5th Comm Bn and that was quite an experience.    Remember implementing the FFN and believe we penned the word "real time' during that time period.  If I recall, it had to do with the "real-time" comms with the big daddies in Hawaii/WASHDC and the ships on the line via the Fleet Flash Net (FFN).  We busted our buns on either a port/starboard or modified 3 section watch bill, but enjoyed the friendships and the feeling that we were doing a "job" that needed doing.      Would like to hear from anyone from there or anyone who just wants to shoot the breeze.  Take care,,,,  

Posted 3-15-09
Tony Killinger, CTM1, NavComStaPhil Det Delta (Danang), 1968-1969
kilt56@hotmail.com

I only got to San Miguel for a couple of days on my way to Danang - but I had time to make it to the crossroads....lol  We are trying to put together a yahoo group of the CT's in Vietnam.  If you are one, or if you know some, please tell them about our site.  Here is the link for subscribing;  ComNavSecGruVets-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
You guys had it rough over there.....lol  Later in life I got even though; after I retired I went back to college, went to work for the CIA and was posted in Manila for four years.  That was in 83-87.  Isn't it funny how some of those memories never fade?  I think her name was Helen......hahaha

Posted 3-15-09
David Gaspar, 1966 - 1968
dave4alta@comcast.net

Much like the rest of you, I was thinking the other day going way baaaaack.  My name is David Gaspar, I was at NavComSta phil from Sept. 66 thru Jan 68.  Jeese it was 40 years ago that I graduated from CT (R) school at Scaggs Island. Thanks for the great thought of times of good.

Posted 4-18-10
Joe Jordan
jjvtown@aol.com

Hi, I'm Joe Jordan.  I was sent to open San Miguel when it was under construction.  I was a CT3, and stayed there until 12/58.  The whole town outside San Miguel was built while I was there.  What a beautiful Navy Base,  right on the South China Sea. I'd love to hear from others who were there....... Regards

Posted 4-21-10
Chet Cronin,  RMC(SS)/LDO 612,   1980 - 1983
Charles.cronin@iraq.centcom.mil

This is incredible !!!!  I know some of the names but having trouble with the faces.   NTCC SUBIC, NCS CPOA …aahhh those monthly CPOA meetings J  …..  The best memories from the early 1970’s being on Diesel Boats to being stationed there to visits when on LCC-19.  Nothing can beat the memory of Chief’s initiation in San Miguel J J  Those hash runs through the Bars, Parlors, and rice paddies.  Being chased by water buffalo J  Most of all were those shipmates/brothers for life. Now here I am in Baghdad as a contractor looking for photo’s PI photos and telling the sea stories that “NO ONE” believes…. Feeding the ducks at Paulines ….  CLUB YOBO’s…..  The Barrio Bar adventures.

Posted 4-21-10
Edward Ellis
icekeeman@yahoo.com
I was with the Detached Guard Marine Unit in San Miquel Naval Communications Station and am looking for a Pvt York or anyone that remembers Pvt York, there around sept 1974. He seemed to dissappear around some legal matters. These legal matters are of interest to an article I'm writing on the flip side of being stationed at Subic Bay or San Miquel. Thankyou for any answers especially from Pvt York himself.

Posted 4-21-10
Max Hale Rm3 - Dec. 1957 to 1959
leighholtz@chartermi.net

Ship shore operator. Best job I've ever had. We worked the Atlantic on the mid watch, ships calling NSS, radio WashDC. They heard us 5 with our great antenna field. Anyway, left there and later became a Ham Radio operator. I loved CW and Radio Manila was the place to be back then. I can't believe others - the ones before me - aren't on this msg. board. Guys like RM1 Dave Marshall; I'm trying to think of others, but can't!! wow!! Thanks to you guys for having this. Pleased the heck out of this old man. The only bar at the corner was Mary's; and others, I can't remember. When I left there, I ended up getting a medical. Lung infection was started there somehow. The real bad rain seasons caused it. We watched outdoor movies dressed in a jock strap, raincoat, navy cap, and shower clacks. What fun!! Wish I could remember more names!! Anyone from back then, please send me an e-mail. I was short, very fat from the San Miguel and NO exercise. And, hung out with the 'almost bad crowd'. Oh, my RMC was Chief Gordon. He kept on me to put the San Miguels down. Slept in late at Mary's bar. Don't think they called it the corner then. But . . . . . . . thanks again, to all the guys that served there, and the folks that started this. Peace and Cheers to you.  

Posted 4-21-10
David Gaspar, 1966 - 1968
dave4alta@comcast.net

Much like the rest of you, I was thinking the other day going way baaaaack.  My name is David Gaspar, I was at navcomsta phil form sept. 66 thru jan 68.  Jeese it was 40 years ago that I graduated from CT (R) school at Scaggs Island. Thanks for the great thought of  times of good.

Posted 4-21-10
A.T. Egley (EGGMAN)
aegley@csc.com

Started as CYNSN. Retired as RMCS. OCT 1965 - JUNE 1970 Fleet Relay Center / Tape Relay / SCV Section. JULY 1970 - JUNE 1974  American Embassy. OCT 1974 - APRIL 1977 NAVLINKSTA Santa Rita. Like to hear from any relay rat / cross roads runner or mountain topper.

Posted 4-21-10
Lester Solomon, RM2, RCVR Site and EOT Rep, 1976 - 1978
Lester.Solomon@kindredhealthcare.com

Just a shout out to all who were there and remember me (sol). Played on the 1977 COMUSNAVPHIL Basketball Championship Team.

Posted 4-21-10
Dan Rogers, CT3-CT2, R-Brancher, 10/66 - 03/68
Det B (Big Look Spooks)
rogers@tolteccomputers.com

I was stationed at San Miguel from 10/66 to 03/68 but spent most of my time in DaNang, Det B (Big Look Spooks).  I will never forget the Crossroads, Olongapo and Manila.  What at time we had there!!  If anyone recognizes my name, send me an email. 

Posted 4-21-10
Juan R Rivera, Feb 86 - Jun 88
17th Surveillance Squadron
onetimejrr@yahoo.com

Looking for any fellow "Flyboys" that served with me. Can't forget all the good times. Anyone can drop me a line. Look forward to hearing from any of you special people - Larry Symons, Terry Petersen, Rob ??, SSgt Buck Rogers, Robin Franzen.....talk to Gerald Guidry every now and then (ok for a squid).  Oh, yeh, cant forget Msgt Cruz and Msgt Terry Sharpman. Peace! Juan aka Guido among other names!

Posted 4-21-10
Derrell Greene, 1958 - 1960
DLGBAW@SBCGLOBAL.NET  (Updated 5-12-10)

My name is Derrell Greene. I was stationed at San Miguel when it was NavComFacPhil in 1958, 1959 and part of 1960.  I was an RMSN and worked at the receiver building.  Had some great times and some great friends there.  I’m curious, there was a Filipino man that we called one-eyed Charlie working in the comm. room on the teletype.  He lost his eye as a guerilla in World War 2 and also had a knee cap sewed in that was taken from a dead GI during the campaign for the Phillipines.  He and I went to Manila for a long weekend on his lambretta motor scooter and he showed me a great time. Anyway I was wondering if anyone knew what became of him or if anyone knew him. Great friends from that time were “Cat” Catalano, Art Robb, Howard Johnston, Hixon and others that I remember their faces but not the names with them. The EM club at Subic Bay had just been built and opened shortly before I returned to the states.

Posted 4-21-10
Joe Good USN Retired
tdomots@hotmail.com

Looking for Lynn Brunelle who came to SM about '83 as an ICFN  She made IC3 and I think IC2 before leaving.  She was one of my studi in BEE school in San Diego.  Home state was FL.  We wrote back and forth for quite a while but like most letter writing it came to an end.  V/R  Joe Good

Posted 4-21-10
Frederick (Smitty) Smith, 1966 - 1968
rister863@samnet.net

Hi Naval personnel, my name is Frederick Smith, of course known as "Smitty." I worked in Relay at the Terminal Building at San Miguel, Philippines. I was stationed there from January 1966 until July 1968. The normal duty was one and a half years, but I extended for one year, and my tour of duty two and a half years. I was an RM3. I now reside in Palmer, Massachusetts, and am 59-years-old.    I tend to have a pretty good long-term memory. So I'd like to make mention of personnel that were stationed with me at that era.    I remember Keith Clark, he was an RM3 from Virginia I believe; Larry Say from Hawaii, who I saw go from RM2 to RM1 and then RMC; a good friend was Jerry Terwilliger, aka "Tweedy" who I saw make RM1, and he lived somewhere in Pennsylvania, Altoona I think, wish I could hear from him now; there was Nickerson who was a Mexican; Martinez, aka "Marty" also a Mexican from California; a guy we called "Pancho" who was another Mexican from Ventura, California; Colin Friend from Delaware, he was a CYN3, and I called him "Friendly"; there was Daniels who was an RM2; Ferguson, RM3 who was a (self-proclaimed karate expert); Richard Cohutt, who lived in Sandisfield, Massachusetts, he was a CYN3; Richard Vallery who was a strong-armed RM1, he had his blue 58 Chevy sent over to him to use on and off base; there was Kirby Llewelyn, he was a CYN; there was Carl Wendt who made it a career and made RMC, I'm in touch with him by e-mail, he also is now a quadriplegic; there was Taylor RM1, he was a pudgy guy with glasses and dark hair, I spent time with him at Clark Air Base for TAD, and we did liberty there and he sure liked the women; there was a guy from New York named Guerra RM2; three was a Texan named Loudermilk, I called "Klem" because he was so southern, nice guy too; there was Randy Cooper from Oregon who was married and missed his wife, he was a CYN3; there was a bespectacled guy named Dewitt; there was Doug Smith from near Denver, I think he went to the USS Annapolis from San Miguel; there was O'Hara with curly brown hair, also from Ventura, California, I remember getting a venereal disease that looked like a red M&M on his private part one time; there was Henry Michael Saine from Marietta Georgia, I was in the same class at Radioman School in Bainbridge, MD; three was a guy named Molson who tended to walk with his cocked to one side; three was Petty RM1, his name may have been Richard Petty like the famous race car driver; when I first started there, the Chief was Shephard; I think there was a Chief McClendon and Jakeway; another guy I went to Radioman School with was Steve Aranjo from Chicopee, Massachusetts, I visited his house one day and his mom told me that he became a beach bum in California; there was a pimply-faced guy who was a reserve RM1, we kind of made fun of him figuring he wasn't qualified to already be an RM1; there was a guy named Nichols; there was a guy named Delmer Cotton from Clearwater, Florida who liked selling cigarettes to the Filipinos for $4 a pack; there was a man named Robert Lionel Leary, who I ran into at an ice cream place here in my town, he now lives in Ludlow, Massachusetts; and one more guy I remember was a lanky guy we called "Kentuck" and it was obvious where he was from.    I started working on the "receive banks" pulling teletype tape, then learned the "send banks". I kind of learned all of the jobs there. I next did some work on the "order wire" where you chatted with technicians on a teletype machine and always started your message "and mate, de RUMF". I also worked ship/shore circuits with mostly aircraft carriers, and my favorite job was the "73 segregator" I learned that job from Ferguson. We sent to teletype tape to the "send banks" via BRPEs which were machines that punched the holes in the teletype tape.    I remember having to push some code on some buttons to enter Relay. We worked eve-day-mid-32, and for maybe two months did port & starboard. I remember walking to Relay at the Terminal Building in a typhoon one time. I had to carry an extra set of dry clothes.    On liberty when I was a rookie, I would frequent The Crossroads I think it was called. That was a place just outside of our main gate. Then when I got more adjusted, I'd take the Liberty Bus to Olongapo. I remember the Gay Toppers at some club on the corner of Magsaysay Drive. I later frequented the Geisha Club, where I met Victoria (Vicky) Flores. She later moved to the California Club, not far from the Subic gate.    I remember the Filipinas called the gay guys "Binny Boys." I learned a little of their language tagalog from staying stationed there for an extra year. I remember the outdoor movie under a shelter right on the base. The popcorn was good for a penny or nickel with butter. I saw "Help" there by the Beatles.    I hope I didn't make this too long. I hope they don't reject my e-mail. Luckily that is all I can think of at this early morning hour of 0134 hours.

Posted 4-21-10
Ken Gurovich,  RM3-Terminal Building, Crypto Center, 1970 - 1973
kenfla416@yahoo.com

I remember San Miguel with fond memories. I met some great people there. Worked in the Message Center for a while and then worked a transfer to the Crypto Room on the second floor printing all the messages for the big wigs up there. I played on the SecGru basket ball team.  Did some great scuba diving at the Capones and then those gorgeous nites at the Nipa hut on the beach. A beerin hand watching the sunset. I met a RM there Named "Frenchy" who talked me into buying a motorcyle at the exhange.  We did some great dirt biking there. Some of you may remember the "Burn Trips" to the furnace area where we got dirty as hell searching through the ashes for any little scrap of tape or paper that wasn't burnt.  Then watering the whole bunch of ashes down. What a mess. At least we got off the midnight shift a few hours early. I remember standing at the main gate and the base firetruck had a call out in town to help put out a fire. The marine at the gate lifted the gate bar but forgot to lower the spike trap. One fire truck with 10 flat tires tied up the exit lane for hours. If anyone remembers a guy named Andy Batavick, please drop me a line. I think he lives outside of Philly now and was a reserve to he was only there for 12 months. I lost contact. Great website. Glad someone put it up.

Posted 4-21-10
Tom 'Robbie' Robinson, RM3-RM2, Dec 81 - Jan 85
navy_tech2318@yahoo.com

"Four Nights in the Genesis" (Aug 2006). Just came back from the Philippines less than a week ago from a 3-week "walk about" holiday. Was met at Ninoy Aquino International by a lovely woman I'd been in touch with for the last six years. What a knock out..what a brainy doll.
After a week in Manila, we went to Olongapo and checked into a nice hotel on Magsaysay Drive that looked strangly familar yet somehow differant: The "Zanzibar Hotel" just one block south on the same side of the street as the American Legion. I was surprised to learn that the Zanzibar had been the old Genesis Club where The Frictions used to play. Even found some of the old P.A. system still intact in the new dance/dining room where we had free breakfast each morning we were there. Olongapo City at night is very quiet now.
On the 3rd day there after throughly enjoying our explorations of the old Subic Naval Station, we took an 'aircon' Victory Liner up to San Antonio and the Crossroads. We triked right up to the gate and checked in at the gate pass station. The guy took my drivers license and gave me the only rule: "no pictures". With that being agreed to, we went straight to the Terminal Bldg. which now has a lot of doors, windows and signs where none were before. It is now a "transistion barracks". The old golf pro shop is now a day canteen for hungry Filipino sailors and marines. The gas station/store appeared abandoned as are many of the buildings that did not serve the new owners, or were too damaged by the 1991 Mt. Pinatubu fury. The main streets have all been renamed, and the 'spider houses' aren't using the original numbering system much, as I was unable to locate my own house. We had the good fortune to catch the eye of a 1st Class Personnelman who invited us up to her spider house to "have a look around". Sorry to report those old Navy homes are not being maintained very well..showing distress from termites, dry rot and humidity. We had a lovely chat with her and her husband, a Personnalman Chief. They drove us out the gate...picking up my license and dropped us off at the San Antonio American Legion across the street from the "Bigfoot" bar. What a day.. can't wait to go back again!

Posted 4-21-10
George Scott, 1963 - 1966
glscott@comcast.net

My name is George Scott. I was a radioman working in the relay center, and file room as a tracer clerk from 11/63 till 4/66. I am working with some other guys who were there to set up a reunion for 2007. Here are some of the guys we hav. Rich England, Doug Morrison, Eddie Ronquillo, R.J. Smith, John Felix, Patrick Garcia. We’re looking for Jack (tiny) Lake, George Bowman, Jim O’Donnell, Clifford Heaton, Dave Schwartz, Don King, Jim Ryan, Ted Fee, Thomas Wharton, Alan Ector, Smokey Stover, Jim Blount, Charlie Brown, Bruce Peterson, Jim Powers, Keith Clark. Any info would be helpful.

Posted 4-21-10
Edward C. Ronquillo, Rm3, 1964 to 1966
Arsecr@wmconnect.com

Ahoy Shipmates. We are trying to put a reunion togther and need names and address of those in Charlie Section in the terminal bldg during this time. We have Rich England, Doug Morrison, George Scott, Rj Smith, Doug Berard and my self  we are all on the net we have pictures but need more addresses of Don King, Alan Hector, Powers, Sullivan, we also found Pat Gracia. We Eddie Cantra, Zelenski, Any help will be greatly appreciated!!! TKS EDDIE

Posted 4-21-10
Thomas Jones, (TJ) RMSR now retired IT1 1984 - 1985
kilo601@yahoo.com

I worked in the Fleet /Message Center (BRAVO BACK BUSTER), I would like to hear from some of the best friends I ever made in the Navy and my life...Tim Rogers, or should I say Rev Rogers now,  Tim Napper - so many Tim Nappers in the phone book in GA, Helen - you still holding it down in the Nav???, Craig - last I seen you was on the B-ball court against the Marines of Company C, Greg - heard you were in San Dog somewhere, Rhonda - or should I say mother Teresa, Joe - well after the pictures I thought I might of seen some of your work in Sports Illustrate, Curtis - last time I seen you was on 95 south leaving the Pentagon..Brother B and Mrs. B - I do miss those meals, where you at??? Billy Barnett - was the coolest, hit me up if you read this, Tidwell - my navy brother, miss ya man...where ya at??? Keisha Gainey - I think we passed each other at the game...U coming me going, Donnie and Dee - It was nice seeing you two still kicking it after all these years...brushing up on my golf game...Linda Taylor - where U at??? Do anyone remember the Sn Smith from High Point that checked a lot of us in??? And DJ  - Debra Jenkins, my hard core lil sister... Porter Pollard - and the coconut trees...Earl Reeves - dude I still remember that dance you tried to do...Donna Ponds - I had fun in San Dog hanging out with you...and last but not least  Renee Anderson - You are truly a  friend...always have a soft spot for ya...Well with all that said, I'm in the DC Metro area working at FT Belvoir if any of you are ever in the area look me up. 

Posted 4-21-10
Stan Longshore Radioman, 1958 - 1960
STANJEAN21@msn.com

I keep going back to this message board because it brings back so many good memories in my past.  I often think of the "Club Rio" where I usually hung out in Olongapo when I went to town.  I drank enough San Miguel beer to float a battleship I think.   The names of a lot of my old shipmates are starting to leave me now.  I am 67 years old now, so you can understand.  I especially remember a guy named McJunkins, a great big african american.  Of course Dale Matsel, Norton, Lonberger, just to name a few.  If anyone thinks they remember me, I guess I would still like to swap a few stories.  I remember a girl I liked called "Baby" who was at the "Club Rio".  I remember a lot of other bars just to numerous to name.

Posted 4-21-10
Donald Kaczmer, CTO2, 9/66 to 6/68,
In Ops at the terminal Bulding
strtrk5a@sbcglobal.net

Well, found this web site by accident and have enjoyed reading the messages contained in it. I remember somethings about the place, but especially the crossroads and olongapo.Oh, how I miss that monkey meat right outside the gate at Subic. Rememver tossing coins in the river just off base and watching the kids dive for the coins. Also remember Paulines at po. One message mentioned the RRB bar. Been there. I worked in Charlie section in all area, but really liked it back in crypto section, keeping that gear going. Some of the names  I can recall are: MIke Wescott, Ron Scott, Bill Pigues (Piggy), "Moon" Mullins, Randy Litle, Norm Beebe, Tom Chidester, Jim Helmer. I have secured a few of the names from the message list and will be sending emails directly to them. Hope they read them. I remember jumping the fence at the pool one night after coming back from the crossroads and seimming in our clothes to cool off. Remember the outdoor movies we had? All you had to do was breathe in real deep and you could get high on certain nights. One rock band I do recall was the "electro-maniacs. They played around the area and once had a special night at the crossroads at a bar run by an american. Who, I do not know. If anybody wants to contact me, write an email and lets recall those good old days.

Posted 4-21-10
Ed Kulik RM3, Oct 1971 - Jan 1975
Nukemeded@aol.com

I was stationed at San Miguel for my complete Navy tour. I worked at the receiver station for the most part except for a short stint at the post office, I had a wonderful time while I was there, met a lot of wonderful people, guys from the states and Filippinos, esp. remember Aquilino Sonar and his wife Mila who always opened up their home to the guys and made many sailors feel like part of their family. I didn’t know how good I had it when I was stationed there, would like to go back sometime just to stir up the old memories and see the beautiful country, and very friendly loving people. Would enjoy reconnecting with other RM’s that were stationed there during the same time frame contact me.

Posted 4-21-10
Steven W. DeBernardi, CTA3, March '69 - August '70
Terminal Building/Admin
stevendebernardi2005@yahoo.com

What a head trip to run across this message board.  Cmdr. Norm Klar was our boss.  I have kept in touch with a few of the guys from those days.  Many of us got transferred to Navsecgru/Washington, D.C. after our tours in the P.I.  Good days in the P.I.  Good days in D.C.  Good to be out of the Navy in July '72. Names of recall are many, faces are young, San Miguel Beer breath is ripe....Life in our quonset hut near the Enlisted Mens Club is enshrined in photographs. Hey old cube mate - Tom Nelson of Iowa.  Remembering George Schwenger, Tom Bement/Zorro, Jorge Cruz-Aedo/Gomez, Chas Browning, David "Beggar" Beckwith, "Jungle" Jim Kerth, R.H. White, the list goes on. Life Eternal through Jesus...Mabuhay

Posted 4-21-10
Paul A Wolf, L/cpl, Training Nco Det.Grd.Co., 1972 - 1973
WairWolf@aol.com

My message is for anyone that remembers the Marine that got run over by the banca boat. Memory fades me and I`ve only chatted with one Marine since being Medevac from Det.Grd.Co.. Would love to hear from any of you.

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