Wallace Air
Station
- MESSAGE BOARD -
Messages 001 - 100 . . . . Messages 101 - 200
1 - 100 Messages Since 4-21-02
Posted 7-5-02
Don Hornick, MSgt, USAF Ret., 72 - 78
dhornick@impulse.net
Great site! I’ve been waiting for someone to establish one for the best “remote” assignment the AF had. I was stationed at WAS from Dec 72 to Nov 78. I worked in Base Supply for 2 years, then assistant manager in the WASCOM for eighteen months, then to CE Materiel Control for the remainder of my tour. Married one of the waitresses, Helen Quilates, in 74. Our son Thomas was born in 76. Remember a lot of great people from my time there; Chief Mac, Gilbert F. Cain III, Tommy Thompson, Jeff Rice, Phil Steelman, Walter “Robbie” Robinson, Reno T. Clinger Jr., John Warren, Ray Brooks (especially all the great holiday meals we cooked on the boat, 1604), Bob Cormier, Hank Schwartz, Chuck Pavey, George Converse, Gary Dykas and probably too many names’ of others I’ve forgotten.Hufana Compound, the White Elephant, the Cherry Blossom & the Bullshitter’s Inn (Tommy Thompson’s second bar) – all great memories. I’ll scan some pictures later and send them on. I hope you have a lot of visitors and they contribute something to your efforts. The six years I spent at WAS were the best of my 24 year career. Appreciate your efforts.
Posted 7-18-02
Duane Baker, SSgt, 1961st Comm Squadron OL-F, 90 - 91
duane.baker@robins.af.mil
I am SSgt Duane Baker and I was in the 1961st Comm Squadron OL-F from March 1990 to March 1991. I am looking for a fire department guy who was stationed there at that time. His name is Jeff Stremmel. He was a SSgt then. Anyone knowing about where he is please email me.
Posted 9-7-02
Richard C. Morse, Airman 2nd Class, 1963 - 1964
MORSEHELEN@aol.com
I was a AC&W operator. Looking to contact a buddy with whom I was stationed at Wallace. A2C Michael Spence who lived in California.
Posted 9-30-02
David Chalifour, TSgt, Oct 86 - Jan 90
David.Chalifour@kadena.af.mil
I am TSgt David Chalifour and was stationed at Wally World from Oct 86 - Jan 90 as an AC&W Radar Specialist. I was a Sgt at the time. Would appreciate any contact information for a Sgt Michael McKeta, and Jerry Schnarr whom were Radar Specialists around this same timeframe. Also looking for Andrew Hamilton(?) who was a fireman from Kentucky. He went by Drew, made SSgt and got out. I believe Drew was at Wallace around 88-89.
Posted 10-0-02
Jeff Patterson, MSgt,
1986 - 1987, 1990 - Closure
Jeffery.Patterson@ramstein.af.mil
MSgt Jeff Patterson here.....was stationed at the BEST REMOTE in the Air Force twice, from 86-87 and 90-closure. My duties at Wally World involved AC&W Radar Maintenance, San Miguel sampler, and AC runner. I was an airman (A1C/SrA) first time, sergeant of some kind second time around. Anyone have contact info for Mick Unger? He was an operator over there during this timeframe, originally from New Orleans. Also, anyone else miss this kind of stuff......mango/banana dacquiris at the Driftwood or Cabana, $4 case of beer, cabins at Camp John Hay, weekend at Angeles, lechon (roast pig), playin liars dice at Ellens Bar, the Joker, the junction, green geckos at the WASCOM, mongolian bbq at Bali Hai, swimming at 100 Islands-Pangasinan, lbfm's.......I could go on & on.
Posted 11-22-02
David Jarrard, 1975 - 1976
David.Jarrard@dscr.dla.mil
My name is David Jarrard, I was an A1C while at Wallace from 1975 to 76. I served on Charlie Crew as a radar operator (scope dope). Wallace was the best assignment of my Air Force time. I served just one enlistment. Favorite memories are of the WASCOM, Cherry Blossom and trips to Angeles City. I was only 19 when I hit Walla Rock and took some time for me to get a true appreciation for the country and culture of the PI. I wonder what happened to some folks. Jesse Stokes and John Riggins come to mind. Some of the names Don Hornick mentions are also familiar.
Posted 12-28-02
Ed Goebig, MSgt (Ret), USAF, 72 - 73
scruffybuffalo@cox.net
Made it up to the best kept secret in remotes after tours at Baudette MN, Clark, and Finley ND. Took a long time to get used to the weather since I kept rotating mid winter for some reason. Working in the towers was great since several of them were refugees from Clark like me. Spent most of my tour working shift in the search tower but it gave me time to roam the area on my cycle. Also let me hit Clark and John Hay almost weekly. Reading some of the other postings bring back a lot of great memories. Martial Law and curfew, staying out past curfew at the Cherry Blossom and then sneaking to my house by the back streets, something I never would have attempted at Clark but felt safe to do up there, and the most memorable person in the formative years of my career Chief Mac. I worked for him down at Clark for a short time and was overjoyed when I found him and several other Roadrunners hiding out up there. Any other tower rats from 72-73 drop a line. Since I was force to retrain, the arm twist was pure torture, in 78 I did not get a chance to see any of the friends I made and over time have forgotten many of their names but would love to hear from them. One other thing that might jog memories of anyone who was there with me is the nickname Chief Mac bestowed on me. I still have the nicely engraved Zippo with the pie-eyed tigers of Walla Rock emblem, our unit, and small quote I received when I left. It contained a nickname I did not know I had received until then from the Chief, "Beetle". Looking back many years later after several promotions I finally understood how and why I got that nickname.
Posted 1-30-03
Roger L. Hoover, 1973
RHoover128@AOL.COM (updated 1-27-09)
I am Roger L. Hoover, now retired Air Force, seeking my son who was born at Poro Point, La Union in August 1974. I was stationed at Wallace Air Station during 1973 and the girl I was staying with was named Christina Rivera, alis Petra Javalosa. I do have a birth certificate with the name of my son mistakenly put as Roger L. Hoover (same as mine), but we named him John. I have tried thru sources to locate John but have not been able to get him. Should anyone know of where he is, I would be happy to hear from him, and get to see him one day. Hope this message finds him and he is well and happy.
Posted 4-02-03
Ralph Sims, Sgt, 848 ADS/SPS, 1989 - 1990
rsims142@comcast.net
I was a Sgt assigned to the 848 ADS Security Police from May 1989 to May 1990. I have recently been contacted by several others who were there during that time and have renewed my interest and hopes in locating others.
Posted 4-06-03
Albert L. Rachel, Sgt, Det-6 1961, Comm 1979 - 1982
hwyflyer@earthlink.net
I would like to get in touch with anyone stationed at Wallace during my tour. I have been looking for Sgt Kevin Cook who married a local lady named Fanny. Please feel free to contact me for any info I may have. Thank you.
Posted 5-5-03
Stephen
Southerland, MSgt, USAF Chief, Specialized Contracting Branch,
Clark AB, 1985 - 1989
ssoutherland4@attbi.com
I was the Air Force Contracting Officer responsible for contracted drone operations at Wallace during my tour at Clark. My most fondest memory of Wallace was the quiet respite from the chaos at Clark and the famous "green flash" I saw only once. I currently live in Garland, Texas and work as Principle Subcontract Administrator for the UK ASTOR Program for L-3 Communications Integrated Systems in nearby Greenville, Texas.
Posted 9-02-03
Joseph Delsordo, SSGT
(E-5), 1974 - 1975
Radio Repairman, 1961st
Communications Squadron
josephde@ms21.hinet.net
Looking for any old buddies that remember me. Especially my scuba diving buddies. Looking forward to a reply.
Posted 9-30-03
Ed Rosina, E-4, 1966, 2876the GEEIA SQ.
ERosina@aol.com
Drove a deuce and a half from Clark to deliver some radar equip. Air horns were tuned to sound like Rabbit bus so people would move out of the way on road. Parking at the beach front motel with the truck took two spaces. We got $14.00 per a day TDY pay and lived like kings. Does anyone remember the dump site where we dumped the packing crates. It was a big hole in the ground that was connected to the sea. When the natives saw us comming they would paddle their canoes under the hole in the cliff and we would drop the packing crates down the hole and they would wave and thank us for dropping 4X4 lengths of lumber on their heads. They always seemed to just get out of the way just in time.
Posted 9-30-03
Clint Sherbondy, 86 - 87
and 90 - close
csherbondy@bresnan.net
(updated 6-13-05)
I was a "Scope Dope" Jeff Paterson I to have been looking for Mick off and on over the years. Have had no luck, thought I had him once and went to New Orleans. All I got out for that trip was a night in jail. I haven't looked for him sense. If you hear anything let me know.
Posted 9-30-03
David Hallam, 1982
- 1983
Duncan38@webtv.net
My name is David Hallam and I was stationed at Wallace from March 82 to March 83 as an A1C in the 848th ACW. I was also a police augmentee and participated in securing the base after Typhoon Faye came through and tore the heck out of Wallace in August of 1982. We sustained a large amount of damage and the base was never the same. I am looking for anyone who was stationed at Wallace during that same period. In particular Chuck Allen, Calvin Woodruff, Dave Andrews Alberta Hardy, Roberto Samudio, Scott Eagle. When I now think about my tour at Wallace I think of it with great fondness even though at that time I was somewhat discontent being so young and far away from home. Overall it was a very good experience.
Posted 9-30-03
Jeff Patterson
Jeffery.Patterson@ramstein.af.mil
In the preliminary stages of planning a get together for former Tired Tigers (Radar Maintainers) in the local area at former Wallace AS. Looking at early/mid Apr 04 for a week or so of fun in the sun. To date the following have expressed an interest: Dan (my eyeballs hangin out) Mark, Brad (I really did see the green flash) Thompson, Lenny (Mr Lumbinuk) Stephens, Jeff (Bar Fine King) Hopson, Jerry (The Beast) Schnarr, and myself of course. If interested drop me a line.
Posted 10-12-03
Randy "Benny" Benefield, 1985 - 1989
randybenefield@yahoo.com
Hi, this is MSgt Randy "Benny" Benefield, formerly a member of the "F Troop" 1961st OL-F. I was stationed there 8 Oct 85 to 29 Feb 89, arrived as a mosquito wing airman and left as a Sergeant. Worked Radio Maintenance the whole time I was there. I married the lovely cashier Lisa from Nina's bar. Have 3 kids now and doing fine in Germany. Feel like emailing? The address above will get me always.
Posted 11-29-03
Dennis Pflederer, 1969 - 1970
DPflederer@SPPC.com
I am Dennis Pflederer, I was a sgt at Wallace from 3/69 through 4/03. I worked in Radar maint. I wonder if anyone who was there during that time remembers Ron Schmidt? I would like to contact anyone from his family. He was shot one night and died while on assignment to Wallace. He was a great guy.
Posted 12-20-03
Cathy Horne (Barnett now), SRA & Sgt, AC&W, 1988 -
1989, 1990 - Close
CATHY.HORNE@WADS.MCCHORD.AF.MIL
Wow! It's pretty cool to see all the familiar names. I recently ran across Kurt Stoefen, who was with the Comm Squadron and he has been interested in finding Dave Steimle (sp?), I think he was a SSgt with Comm, too. If anyone remembers Fred and Grace Luce, they are doing well in Utah. I heard something about Mick Unger a few years back, but nothing recently.
Posted 2-11-04
Stevan "Steve" Turk, SGT, Jan - Dec. 1976
turkn8or@adelphia.net
Brings back many fond memories of W.A.S.! One of the best times of my life......wish I could have stayed longer. I worked in OPS on Charlie Crew. Some familiar names: Jesse Stokes, Buddy Liston, A1C Christy. Many names I can't remember, but I remember their faces as if it was last year. Separated from the AF in 1977 in California and still live there today. Stayed in touch with Buddy Liston for a few years. He changed AFSC to C-5 Loadmaster and retired in 1991. I emailed him recently but haven't heard back yet. I am planning to retire from the State (California) in 2005. My wife and I travel quite a bit and try to get to Florida once a year to visit her mother. I'm going to try to make the W.A.S. 2005 reunion in Panama City. Would love to hear from other WAS Alumni....drop me a line.
Posted 6-18-04
Marc Blecman, SGT, Radar Maintenance,
1990 - 1991
mrajz@netzero.com
Great to finally see a site for Wallace ASN! My wife, Russell, and I are looking forward to the reunion next year. Hopefully the timing will work and we can see everyone. Has anyone heard from Rick Camp or Dusty Rhodes? Junior or Senior.
Posted 8-23-04
Russell, Aldington H., TSgt - SSgt, 1989 - 1991
al_russell@hotmail.com
NCOIC Search Radar Maint, Military Customs Inspector, Fuels Inspector, Helicoptor Refueler, Gas Station Attendant, BX Ration Card Inspector, WasCom DJ, F-Troop, . (1 Job Mon) When Brad Thompson told me about the site, I broke off our instant messaging. It's nice to find a place where I can get in touch with friends from a fond past. I have a daughter (Venus Jahmina Casuga) in San Fernando. I am going on my 2nd visit sometime before March '05 to get my daughter a US Passport, thus will be in Manila a few days upon arriving. My date(s) are flexible. If anyone is interested or planning a trip there please contact me. I would love to have some company. My daughter's mom (Evelyn) will be letting me use her car during my stay there, so transportation is taken cared of. I have been in touch with Brad Thompson, Jeff Hopson, Herb Atkinson, Tyrone Grant & Eddie Rivera. They are all doing GREAT, considering the personality changing enviornment we all experienced at The Greatest Remote. Take Care and best of luck to all.
Posted 8-23-04
Mark Putnam, A1C, Det 2, 14th Comm Sq, December 1974
putnam.mark@comcast.net
Was stationed at Wallace on a TDY assignment out of Tokorozawa Japan. Thoroughly enjoyed the stay and would have preferred to have stayed longer ... Alas, it was not to be ... Some moments that I recall include: Going to the Combined club and seeing the sign "Check your Guns" at the door.. That I believe was at the coat check ... Being caught off base after curfew and spending the evening with a very nice lady who was kind enough to not push me to the street... (she was truly quite nice ...) A trip to Baguio - what a place... Catching scarlet fever & making a trip to Clark sicker than a dog ... would love to visit the Panama renunion ... Presently, I live in the Philadelphia, PA area.
Posted 9-6-04
Jeff Hopson, SSgt, 1985 - 1986 and 1988-Close
Jeffrey.Hopson@hickam.af.mil
Well I just can’t get PACAF out of the system. Been here at Hickam for almost 6 years, I have an assignment to Kadena. Wallace has to be the best assignment I’ve had in my 21 years. Great place and great people, hey all you radar maintenance toads i.e. Patterson and Chalifour. Looking forward to hear from some of you folks.
Posted 9-6-04
Michael Grimm, SGT, 1972 - 1973
mike@tf.bp.nrl.navy.mil
Radar Maintenance. This was my best tour during my enlistment.
Posted 9-6-04
Dennis Pflederer, 1969 - 1973
DPflederer@SPPC.com
I am Dennis Pflederer, I was a sgt at Wallace from 3/69 through 4/73. I worked in Radar maint. I wonder if anyone who was there during that time remembers Ron Schmidt? I would like to contact anyone from his family. He was shot one night and died while on assignment to Wallace. He was a great guy.
Posted 9-14-04
Dennis
"D" Shea, Maj USAF (Ret), SD Charlie Crew, Nov 77 - Nov
78
crewdog@arkansas.net
Thanks for the site! Brings back fond memories of my first and best remote and the first step in my escape from SAC (B-52's). The folks on Charlie Crew, my AF/Local friends, my 65 Ford convertible and the youthful experiences in the PI will always be a pleasant memory to me. You can pack a bunch of living in 12 months if you're not afraid to go through the Main Gate! I "escaped" to MAC and went on to T-39's, C-130's, and retired in C-21's after a serving in the 1st Gulf War. I'm getting old/gray now and have settled down back in Arkansas on a big Corps lake called Greers Ferry. When people ask what I do - I tell them that I'm a "Gentleman Lake Bum". Most career military types will agree that their good/bad times in the service were the best of their lives and few civilians can ever match our experiences! Any of my PI friends are welcome to drop me a line or stop by for a visit -- I'll check Ya out on my JetSki :-) CrewDog Out
Posted
9-14-04
Al Celaya, Feb
1972 - Feb 1973
alcelaya@msn.com
Aloha, from Texas. This is Al Celaya. I was stationed at Wallace with Det 2, 14th Comm Sq from Feb 1972 to Feb 1973 as a TSgt. I was supervisor for the teletype/crypto maint shop. Also had First Sgt and Training NCO duties, under Capt's Godzilla and Ernie Currier. Only remember a couple of names, SSgt Dirty Dan, TSgt Curley (Personnel), MSgt Zimmerman and Dan LeMaster (??), Sgt Agosto. Got reassigned to Goodfellow with Security Service, promoted to Msgt not long after getting here. Was Instructor and later Chief of the Printer Maint Branch of the Security Serevice Crypto School. Retired Dec 1975. Bounced around about 16 jobs before settling in with the state of Texas as an EEO investigator and later director for the whole program for a state agency. Quit and retired 1996-1997. Went back to work for 18 months. Then finally retired!!! My health not too good. Have had cancer (right kidney removed), eyelid surgery, gall bladder infection and removal of such, back surgery, Roto-Roter (prostrate) and will now be having neck surgery in a couple of weeks. Also now diabetic and after all my ills the VA only giving me 40 % disability rating. The wife and I have been married 47 years, my children all grown up, got me a B.A from Univ here, my oldest son played college football here when Univ won national small college championship (1978). Now have 7 Grandchildren, 2 Greatgrandchildren, and loads of steps-children. Anyone remember me drop me a line. C Ya 4 Now.
Posted 2-5-05
Jim Snyder, SSgt., July 79 - July 80
thetiredtiger@msn.com
My year at Wallace was one of the best in my life and surely the best of my time in the AF. Some of the people I met there are those I still consider to be my best friends. We were crazy, crazy, crazy! I was in Radar Maintenance and a member of the infamous Tired Tigers (hence the email address). Everyone wanted to be a Tired Tiger, and a few luck honorary members were included. Radar Maintenance won the base softball championship in 1980 and had everything pretty much its way. For those who were there during this period, you may remember the Great Bonka Boat Races, Country and Western Night at the WASCOM, the disco rebellions, and the beer soaked paper napkin fights at the WASCOM (officers and enlisted got in on this one). Of course, the Tired Tigers were right in the middle of just about everything that happened. It was wonderful, and I miss it in many ways. I am saddened to know it is all over, and that the political situation in the PI makes going there somewhat ill-advised. Still, all who served there are part of a very special cult-like community. I am happy to be a member. Attitude check anyone?
Posted 2-5-05
Fred W. Klingerman alias Wayne, A/1C
Clark 848 AC&W Lilly Hill April 1961 to March 1963
Wallace Air Station March 1963 to November 1963
fklinger1@charter.net
Looking for anyone who served there.
Posted 2-5-05
Ralph R. Bullock, 1985-86, A1C, 1988-89, SrA/Sgt
848 Security Police, Flight Leader
Ralph.Bullock@travis.af.mil
WoW. This is a blast from the past. I remember when the board at the Main Gate was "The Best Kept Secret of the Pacific". It is nice to see the old place again. I miss the friends which were made during that time. It was fun. Hello to my fellow cops and friend. Let me know about the reunion in 2005.
Posted 2-5-05
Bob Buikus Amn, A1C and SRA, 26Feb78----26Feb80
Transportation/Motor Pool (mechanic)
buiks36@cox.net
Best damn assignment anyone could ask for. Met and Married my first wife there and luckily 25 years later she's still my first wife.
Posted 2-5-05
William Scadin, 1961 - 1963
Scadin@gtlakes.com
Served at WAS in . I was an AIC at the time working in Radio Maintenance. As with most of you, I agree Wallace was a great assignment. In 1961 we lived in Quonset huts and the whole camp had probably 45 people assigned. SSgt Morales served really great food. Major Parmelee was Commander. I was in the 848th AC&W and later Det 6, 196lst Comm Sq. When my wife came over I lived in Bagio and commuted (car pooled) every day. Wore out a car that way. I went back in 66 from Vietnam and not much has changed. Now it looks like a city compared to what it was. Hope you all liked it. If anyone remembers me, contact me.
Posted 2-5-05
Kenneth Deuel, May 63 to Aug 64
kjbd62@midwestinfo.net
Air police, first in new buildings Kenneth Deuel a2c. I have many feet of 8mm film now video that I would like to share. There were 5 of us.
Posted 2-12-05
Mark Hilker, A1C-SGT., 3rd Tewts, 1984 -
1989
JUSJOE842@MSN.COM
I worked at Tango site. Those were the days, lots of memories. I recognize some of the names posted on this board I think. I hope to check back regularly. Can't wait to see some pictures!
Posted 2-15-05
SMSgt Jeff Hopson (Kadena AB) Wallace AS "Tired Tiger"
85 - 86 and 88 - close
Jeffrey.Hopson@kadena.af.mil
Made it to Kadena, already did a vacation in Cebu, didn't make it to La Union. I hear rumblings of a 2nd annual reunion in La Union, sponsored by the friendly neighbor hood Tired Tigers. Hey Chalifour, freezing your nunnies off in Iceland?
Posted 3-6-05
Jeff Patterson, SMSgt, Wallace AS “Tired Tiger” 86
– 87 and 90 – Close
Jeffrey.patterson@balad.centaf.af.mil
I had a nice vacation in La Union and Cebu this past Apr 04. Hooked up with Jerry “The Beast” Schnarr in Manila and then saw some of the old sites/old timers still hanging out around Wallace. Let me know if anyone is interested in meeting up sometime in Jun/Jul 05. I’ve got to get out of Iraq first, but I’m working on that too.
Radar ten hut!
Posted 4-10-05
James G. Rutledge, SSGT, Feb 64 - May 65
brutledge@tampabay.rr.com
I worked in Operations as a 27350. I want to say I was on "C" crew, I think, but it has been so long ago. In 1966 I retrained as a computer programmer and was assigned to NORAD doing the BMEWS. I retired from the AF in Jul 1977 as a SMSGT at Kneeler AFB. After that I worked in the Defense Industry doing software engineering for E-Systems, which became Raytheon. I retired from them in 1998. I live in Florida and am looking forward to the reunion in Panama City.
Posted 4-10-05
Tim Aukshun, Retired TSgt
1961st Det six 1974-1975, and 1961st OLF 1983-1985
tim@oceandeep.biz
Retired in the area and yep still scuba diving, now to depths of 245 feet. Still go the junction but most tourist go to Bauang near Cabana and Bali Hai where the go go bikini dancers are.
Posted 4-10-05
Russell, Aldington H., TSgt - SSgt, 1989 – 1991
Al.Russell@KRAB.AORCentAF.AF.Mil
I am presently working as a Contractor in Kirkuk, Iraq. I do O & M on the ATC Radar. I just got back from a trip to Luzon. There are about 3 times as many cars there as when I left in ’91. I drove by Clark Air Base; there was no signs of Ash anywhere. They are still trying to convert the Base into an Economic Zone (duty Free and Commercial). The San Fernando area was congested. I resorted to staying at home during the days and hanging out (just a little) at night. I ran into Jing Jing, Elmer and Irene from the WASCOM. They are doing Okay. They would not let me on to Wallace. The Philippino Air Force is still using it as an Air Base.
I am planning to take vacation in Jul/Aug, but I am not sure if I will make it to the reunion. I don’t want to spend that kind of money if there isn’t a good showing from the ‘90 – ‘92 folks. I am trying to get a Web Based Registry set up so that we can state whether or not we plan to attend the reunion. This would also be a good place to get e-mail addresses.
Posted 4-10-05
Dean Wineland, Wallace Air Station
Operations/Stan Eval 1983-1984, Operations/Stan-Eval 1986-1989
DeanWineland@Hotmail.com
I departed Wallace in 1989 with a COT to HQ 13AF, Clark and stayed until Pinatubo erupted. I love the PI so much I moved here when I retired from The AF.
Posted 4-10-05
Victor R. Hopkins Jr. TSgt, NCOIC 'W.A.S' Power Plant, Jan 91 to
Close
Victor.Hopkins@komag.com
Looking for CMSgt Ziggie and the rest of the crew. I know he goes back to La Union from time to time. He might be retired there.
Posted 4-13-05
Donald R, Mulkey, SSgt, Base Comm Center, Det 6, 1961CG Nov
79-Nov 80
dmulkey@hotmail.com
Miss all the great guys I met there, especially Al Rachel, my roommate amd partying buddy. Will always remember my time at "Walla Rock". The people there were GREAT! The Tired Tigers, 848th Scope Jocks and all the locals like bong-bong, rick, BIG freddy and the WASCOM Hoovers. We worked hard and Partyed hard. Best assignment I ever had. Looking to find friends I made there like "The Doc", "Crazy Zeke" and of course my best friend there Al Rachel. I still have my plaque that was given to me on my last night there. Fond memories. Donald R. Mulkey, MSgt USAF ret
Posted 4-22-05
Jerry Bannantine, 1976 - 1978
jbannantin@aol.com
Wow -- memories! Just seeing the WASCOM pictures was worth the Google search. My name is Jerry Bannantine, '76 - '78, 848ACWS crew dog for about half of my two year tour, then was a day-weenie for a year in stan/eval. I lived on 1st Street and ran the Cherry Blossum and Ellen's pretty hard. Also made numerous trips south to "Oz" on breaks and weekends with several crew dogs. I learned how to scuba dive at Wallace and played lots of softball and basketball. For those that remember (or might have owned), I drove the 1959 blue and white Ford known as the Blue Goose that didn't run very well or far, and kept getting sold to unsuspecting newbies by guys rotating home to the States.
I remember some of the names posted. Here's several more: John Ridley, Craig Motaka, Petey Peterson, Snake Radar, Gary Peeling ("peelings, nothing more than peelings"). I never knew Charlie Pepper while we were in the AF (he was stationed at Wallace twice -- right before and right after I was there), but ran into him in a local bar here in San Antonio. We didn't know each other, but recognized each other's names from Wallace stories told by others.
Posted 6-13-05
Doug Ferguson, Airman, 1988 – 1989
dougfe@yahoo.com
Woah, I thought that year in the PI was a dream. Wallace AS really existed huh? Where’s Pinkerton, Alvarez, Cavalier, Cheripka, Yamashiro and Kim Roetina? Was looking at some old videos I shot of all of us. God, what a dork I was. (sorry!) But I do have some good blackmail material if any of you ever run for senate! Just joking. I got out of the Air Force in ’90 and went to U of Florida. Been in New York City for 13 years. Time flies. Hope everyone is well.
Posted
8-8-05
Sgt. Scott Thallemer, 1989 - 1991
Fireman
thallemer@earthlink.net
Clint, I have also tried looking for Mick from time to time but I did not end up in jail. After the volcano I got out with Ronnie Marshal also a Fireman. I have become a nurse and just re-entered the Air Force as an Officer. (Good thing they don't have the pictures from Wallace) I miss the Hash runs and the Junction. If anyone knows the where abouts of Ronnie Marshall I would love to hear from him. ON-ON 2Lt Scott G. Thallemer
Posted
9-5-05
Larry Burdick, Msgt. Ret, 1973 -
1974
Search Radar Maintenance
Larry.Burdick@oln-afmc.af.mil
Walla Rock... hmmmm... the best assignment of my 21 year career. Spent lots a time at the Cherry Blossom and WASCOM. Worked with Mark Nixon, Larry Johnson, Gary Dykas and Chief Mac. Still remember the Sunday morning Canadian Club and scrambled egg breakfasts! God, nowadays I'd puke! Also, membership night was always a favorite! Still remember the Tropical Bugs playing "Say You Will". Gary Dykas' wife, Lina, was the singer. I married a Girl named Carmelita Ulla. We are divorced now but were married for 18 years and had two daughters. I attained the rank of Msgt. in the Air Force, the title I cherish most??? "TIRED TIGER!" Love to hear from anyone from Walla Rock!
Posted
10-9-05
Greg Ashley, March 1968 - April 1969
Greg.Ashley@gottlieb.skanska.com
Greetings to all who served at Wallace AS over the years. My name is Greg Ashley and I was stationed at Wallace from March of 68 to April of 69. It was without a doubt the best duty station one could ask for. I was a Sgt on Bravo Crew, 848 AC & W Squadron. Seeing the pictures brings back so many memories of those days. I will have to dig out some of my own and post them. Others on my crew were Lt. Mike (?) “Polly” Parrot, Lt. Ohta, MSGT Ernie “Chicken Man” Novey, John “Batman” Murphy, Ralph “papa cools” Kohl, Gary “Sam” Spade, Lanny Putman, Terry Huckstep, Mac “Junior” Barnes, Steve Payne, Dobie Enoka, and many others. If any you read this, drop me a line. What a time we had! We spent our time at the WASCOM and then headed for town to the C-Men’s Club and the place next door (can’t remember the name). Drank a lot of San Miguel (export only).
Posted 10-17-05
Dave Jones, A2, Air Control, 1963
gapinchapin@hotmail.com
Left the week JFK was shot. Played for the base basketball team.
Posted 1-23-06
Aubrey Collins,
Mar 1990 - Mar 1991
eyeinidas@yahoo.com
My name is Aubrey Collins. I love the pictures. This is what Wallace looked like when I was stationed there. I was there from Mar 1990 to mar 1991. I worked in the Navaids shop with Glenn Adams and Dan Feela. MSgt Yates was also a 304x1. I wish there were more pictures of "The Junction". Also, who took the pictures? I'm sure I know some of these guys. I didn't take enough pictures while I was there. And the one roll that I did take was lost before it was developed. I know Glenn liked to take pictures, though. It would be great to here from those guys again.
Posted 1-23-06
Sam Halburian, SrA, July 1981 - Jul 1982
(Retired 1999) Air Surveillance - Training Shop
sam.halburian@ultra-ats.com
My tour of Duty at Wallace AS was by far the best year I had spent anywhere at anytime. If not for a follow-assignment to AWACS at Tinker AFB, I may have never left the place! Many, many fond memories and I am grateful the A.F. provided me the opportunity to experience the PI.
Posted 1-23-06
Dan Wilson, A2c, Mid 60 - Feb 62
ltcmustang1@bellsouth.net
Just saying hello to anyone around then. Wish I'd found the site sooner. Live in Mobile, AL. Could have made the reunion. Nov 20, 05
Posted 1-23-06
Charlie
Pepper
July 1973 to July 1976, and July 1979 to 1981
PapaCharlieP@aol.com
My name is Charlie Pepper. I was stationed at Wallace from July 1973 to July 1976 and then again from July 1979 to 1981. The first tour I was a TSgt and the crew chief on Bravo Crew and also worked in the Ops Office. The second tour I was a MSgt and was OPS Training NCOIC. My wife is from San Miguel Tarlac and we married in December 1970. During my first tour my wife and I were together along with our two daughters who went to school on Clark. My wife and I returned for a second tour in 79 and left in 81. What a great place to be stationed. I miss all those good times and all of the troops. Paul Melton was stationed there (several times) and now resides here in San Antonio also. He is a very good friend. We go back to 1960. Tom Hampton was also at Wallace at the same I was. Others are Jesse Stokes, Hank Schertz, Roger Hathaway, Augie Clarke, Bummer Hodge, Chief Mac to name a few. What a great assignment. Best remote in the Air Force. Great times at the WASCOM, Baguio playing Golf and trips to Clark and Angeles city. I when to work in Civil Service at the Air Force Personnel Center at Randolph and retired again November 2001. My wife and I together have 5 children, 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Its great to view the Wallace Message board and recall some of those great memories.
Posted 1-23-06
Buck Brennan, CMSGT, OPS SUPT, 1976 -
1977
Chiefb37@frontier.com (updated 1-16-11)
This is a short request. would any one that attended the reunion this past summer please e-mail me with how things turned out and is there going to be another one in the near future. Thanks.
Posted 12-26-06
William L Scadin, AlC, Radio Maintenance 1961-1963
Scadin@Peoplepc.com
I retired from the AF a CMSgt after 27 years. I remember WAS fondly. It didn't have all the great buildings that is there in the 80's. We lived in a Quonset Hut but life was great. Only 3 bars in Poro but plenty of San Miguel. Anyone remembering me can reach me at the email address listed.
Posted 12-26-06
Brian Matic, Dependent, 1988 - 1992
Son of Commodore Bayani Matic, CO Poro Point NAVSTA
m094098@usna.edu
My name is Midshipman Brian Matic of the United States Naval Academy class of 2009. My father was once Commanding Officer of the Philippine Naval Station Poro Point from 1988-1992 which was beside Wallace AS. I was wondering if you could tell me the name of the Commanding Officer of Camp Wallace during those years. The reason for my inquiry is because I am looking for the daughter of the CO of that base. I remember that we were friends back then. Anyway, I was curious whatever happened to her after the base closed and would like to make contact at some point.
Posted 12-26-06
Nancy White, 1983 - 1984
micah110@gmail.com
Nancy White here, I think I was about an airman while I was there, which was in Aug 83 to Aug 84. I was the supply CE material control, and worked for SSgt Birkemo and MSgt White - then later for a MSgt that I remember well, except can't remember his name -- in CE - hehehe, boy was I a smart ass back then! (maybe now too, I don't know...) I hung out with Tom Haley and whoever was watching a movie or hanging out at the club. That was my first time away from home, and left me quite homesick, but I did have a very good time while there --- oh, wipe that smile off your face - I mean I had a good time shopping the local markets, and taking dips in the ocean just off base, de-licious lobster dinners, although I think I missed out on the supposed beer runs. Very fond memories of Tom, Mike Hamilton, Gary Smith, Brenda Rutledge, and many others... Kept track of many people thru the years, but unfortunatley 20 years of PCSing will eventually cause you to lose track of many dear friends. I would love to hear from folks from that time frame... bring back some good old day memories ... I am retired now, and live in PA, so too far to go to that recent reunion, but I would have loved to go. Maybe will go next time.
Posted 12-26-06
Austin "Frankie" Blessard, 1990 - 1991
motofreaky@yahoo.com
Howdy! I think I hold the distinction of having the only motorcycle accident ON BASE. Wally World was a helluva first assignment. Thanks for the memories!
Posted 12-26-06
Robert F. Travis, 1/Lt C&E Officer 1959 to 1961
rtravis@stx.rr.com
I still see the base commander, Capt.( now Lt. Col. USAF Ret.) Earl Ray, and the base adjutant, Lt. (Now Brig, Gen. USAF Ret.) Elmer Brooks. I also kept in touch with S/Sgt Sam Houston until his death. Sam received a PhD in electronic engineering and worked in Fort Worth for a defense contractor. I would enjoy hearing from anyone else who was stationed with us at that time. After Wallace, I left the Air Force and worked for 40 years as a geologist. Now I am retired.
Posted 12-26-06
SSgt James Craig Williams, "CW", Mar 87 - Mar 88
elloco83@msn.com
NAVAIDS (TACAN) Maintenance!
Posted 12-26-06
A1C David Wheadon, 1961st, Ground Radio, Radio Relay Repair, 1959
- 1960
dwheadon@aol.com
First to answer Arthur Morales' Post dated 8-30-04 Looking for Romero (Air Force), Sgt Baldasarre (Army), Apuna (Army) and looking for a phone number on the base in order to try and get more info. Thank You
While I was at COD, there was a Jimmy Baldasarre, Army civilian employee, who was the supervisor of the power plant and other facility operations such as motor pool, and who married a Philippine national, retired from the Army, and stayed in the PI. I believe he was origionally from the northeastern US. He was a short guy and could really blow off steam when he got mad about how operations were not going right at the power plant or GI's were giving him a hard time. The PI was my first duty assignment after a year of tech school. I arrived at Clark 1/1/59 and COD a couple of months later, after working awhile at Clark FM Hill. There were approximately 65-75, half AF and half Army, transmitter site personnel and lots of Philippine nationals I worked with at COD. The new Page Communications troposcatter long haul comm site was really impressive as were the Army ACAN HF SSB transmitters. Seems the Army had the good equipment and AF the old stuff except for the two Microwave radio relay systems the AF maintained for the Clark Receiver site/Comm Center-FM Hill link to the COD transmitter site. Had to maintain an ancient TRC-1 FM radio link to Crow Valley they used as a phone line to Clark. Can remember the "Club" and movie theater, radio repair trips to Crow Valley and ROK F86 pilots setting the goony grass on fire at Crow Valley when they made extremely low runs, hunting expeditions into the Bataan mountains using a crummy AF .30cal carbine while my buddy had a nice 30-06 rifle, waking up in the early morning sunrise 30 yards from the Club, laying flat on my back in the middle of the COD ball field with a terrible hangover (also did that one weekend night on the seawall at Manila), three of us getting in trouble with our green 2LT site OIC and restricted to the site for a couple of weeks for shaving our heads (he was afraid someone at Clark would see us and want to know what the hell is going on up at COD), having the chow hall mess Sgt marinate a goat overnight that we had bought from one of the Philippine nationals to barbecue, then running out of goat to eat, drinking too much beer, then shooting a dog out past the checkpoint, carrying it in and roasting it, running out of fire and eating that half cooked dog. The complimentary San Miguel brewery tours at Manila was always a good spaghetti and beer event. As was Tanduay (sp.) Rum and Coke. Had a hard time with the beer over ice when drinking at Capas while waiting for a bus to COD. SSgt Hart, a really big man from Bastrop, LA, was the AF AP NCOIC of security at COD and Crow Valley. He was so heavy that his jeep had a permanent list, even when he got out of it. Was funny to see him trying to bounce on the door frame to try strightening it out. Had the movie theater projectionist job for awhile and remember putting a whole reel of "The Ten Commandments" on the projection booth floor while we sat out in the theater and drank surplus Champagne we had "obtained" somehow from the "Club". We just laughed n laughed like drunk skunks at the film mess when we saw it. Had a wife and child back in the states, so didn't even leave the base or site for about a year. Then found out how great Manila was for weekend pass place to go. Met some sailors in Manila one weekend and spent the night on their Essex class aircraft carrier, the Bon Homme Richard in Manila Bay. That was a great experience. Didn't find out about Camp John Hay until about one month before I left the PI. Took the train up to San Fernando, La Union, and bus from there to Baguio and Camp John Hay for a weekend. Remember the sweet smell of the PI Sampaghita tree blossoms. When I rotated back to the states June 1960, there were many new mobile transmitter van systems being instaled at COD to support the southeast Asia build up. What was the Capas, Tarlac transmitter site in later years, I see mentioned in posts for that site? at http://www.usmilitarypi.com/capastarlac_message.htm Did it replace the COD transmitter site?
Posted 12-26-06
Mike
Nieman, July ‘73 - July ’75
mike@chesapeakescuba.com
My name is Mike Nieman. I was a sgt in Radar Maintenance stationed at Walla Rock from July ‘73 to July ’75. Every one has great memories of Chief Mac and I’m no exception. I liked his story about how he came to have the bullet on his key chain. Other guys I worked with include Gary Cramer, Larry Burdick, Gary Dykas, Marcus Grant Nixon from Yazoo Ms, SMSgt Fontaine, Bummer Hodge, and more whose names elude me at the moment. I did a lot of scuba diving while there and remember several divers: Jerry Dorminey whom I’ve maintained contact and friendship with, Ray Grant (I read he had passed – not sure), Theron Haunschild, Joe Delsordo, Tim Aukshun and more. I married Linda Fausto in ’74 we were divorced in ’80. We are still friends though. I now have a scuba shop in Annapolis MD. I look forward to hearing from anyone I might know.
Posted 12-26-06
Steve J. Kapp, MSgt, Retired 1988 - 1991 (the day it closed)
kalbosjk@sbcglobal.net
Great to see all the familiar
names. I was in the 1961st CG OL-F while at Wallace.
My wife, Rowena used to work at the
Seabreeze Restaurant. We have been back several times
and plan a trip next year. I sure miss my days at the best
remote in the USAF! Steve J. Kapp,
USAF, Retired
704 West 5th Street
Grove, Oklahoma 74344 Home (918) 786-5759
Cell (918) 791-1262
Posted 12-26-06
Chris McClain, 1983
chris031960@sbcglobal.net
My name is Chris McClain I was stationed with the 848th in 1983 as an AC&W operator (276xx). I would like to hear from some of those I was stationed there with. We had a group of us called the "BeastMasters".
Posted 11-25-07
SGT. Marc Blecman, Tired Tiger, 90 -
91
mrajz@yahoo.com
Visited Wallace this past July 07. VOA has/is being converted to casino and hotel vacation spot. It was pretty nice and spent a night gambling and drinking with freinds and in-laws. Russell (my wife) and I visited Wallace as well. Managed to talk the PAF into letting us on the base. It was a quick trip and no picture taking allowed. We also had an escort. The base is hard to recognize thru the changes the PAF have done. A couple of new buildings, rerouted part of the roads and removed a couple of smaller buildings. They wouldn't let me near the towers (I was hoping to see if the pepper bushes were still by the radar towers) or up the road toward the WASCOM or the main part of the base but we could still see most of it from where they let us go. Guess I got 1 the rest of you didn't. For me it was sad to see my memories have changed. No reason for me to ever go back now as it isn't the WALLACE I remember anymore. Things never seem to stay the same except in your head. Anyway, I have a foto album full of memories the way I remember it. Not to mention 16 years of an awsome marriage from the girl I met there and a couple of awsome kids...
Posted 11-25-07
Tom "Jake" Jacobson, SSgt, Security Police, 1971 - 1973
tomjac0850@chater.net
Wallace was the best assignment I had during my 20 years. Too bad it had to end. I would have stayed there forever if I'd had my way. I still am in touch with Craig McKay, Rick Beach, and Don Daniel. For a time I was in touch with Norma Tesch, the cute, skinny girl who sold the Stars and Stripes in the snack bar. I'm still hoping to hear from Pete Nichols, Don Ready, Gil Kain, Guy Symosko, Jim Oliver, Mike Reagan, or any other guys I was close to at Wallace. I'm a retired E-7 living in Eau Claire, WI now. E-mail me.
Posted 11-25-07
SGT Terry D. Lambert, Security Police, Camp OD, 1978 - 1980
cte23348@centurytel.net
Looking for my MUSE! or BLUE, H. Jones, R. Ray, T. Cagwin, B. Fisher, M. Regis, K. Gahan or any of the others from C.O.D. Miss the Gang!
Posted 11-25-07
Irvin Feldman, A2C, 1959 - 1960
irvinf@sbcglobal.net
Irvin Feldman here was A2C and stationed at Wallace shortly after arriving at Clark in '59. Left Jan. '60 to return to the states for discharge. Assigned to 1961st AACS and Wallace to maintain the TACAN and Beacon. As this "Old Man" remembers, biggest job was hauling diesel fuel trailer out to the mobile TACAN unit, checking the beacon--hear it on the EE8 phone system and reporting in to Clark that everything OK. Spent most the time in the library--had A/C.
Posted 11-25-07
Bob Bailey, A1C/Sgt, May 1971 to June 1972
AC&W Radar Operator
bobb02@comcast.net
Fond memories of my first USAF assignment out of tech school. I've recently been scanning my slides into jpeg format on my pc and am seeing pictures of Walla Rock and friends that I haven't looked at in probably 30 years. Definitely a trip down memory lane. I was only 18 years old at the time. Friends names that come to mind: SSgt Fred Pike, A1C Mike Mooers, Sgt "Holly" Hollister, A1C Neil Roberts, A1C Bob Fulmer, Sgt Bob Burnham, Sgt Mike Brady and many whose names escape me at the moment. Wild times at WASCOM. Great snorkeling on Wallace Beach and off the coast at Nalinac. Some of the fondest memories of my life. When I left Wallace, I cross-trained into Air Traffic Control at Keesler AFB, and from there to RAF Upper Heyford, England, then on to work for the FAA at Denver Center. I'd love to hear from anyone stationed at Wallace Air Station.
Posted 11-25-07
Jeff Stremmel, 1990 to 1991
lrentzel101@comcast.net
I was stationed at Wallace from 90 to 91 and was there for the closing. My name is Jeff Stremmel and I was a SSgt in the fire department. I seen where an old friend SSgt Duane Baker tried to contact me back in 02 from this message board. Thank you for having this contact site and if any of my old buddies want to contact me, I would love to hear from all. I would love to know about any reunions upcoming and would love to say what a great tour Wallace was during my Air Force career. Thanks again.
Posted 11-26-07
James Truman, SMSgt, USAF Ret
NCOIC Wideband/Tech Control, OL-F, 1961st
Comm Group 1988-1991
BigJim1957@gmail.com
I was assigned to OL-F, 1961st Comm. Grp. as the NCOIC of the Wideband/Tech Control facility from Jan 1988 to Feb 1991. It was the best assignment I had during my 28 years of active duty service. I wish it were still open today as I would be working/living there for sure. Some other members of the OL-F team that I worked with during my time there are: Gerald Singleton, Ray Parker, Steve Kapp, Dave Goyins, Mike Crump, Dan Fella, Chuck Hile, Jeanne Vogt, Willie Brown, Pepe Bayon, Mike Zoelner, Raul Brioso, Randy Lamply, Eric Davis, Duane Baker, Randy Benefield, Craig Williams, Jim Marsh, Tom Ney, and Scott Trimarchi. There are many more, but I can’t recall their names right now. I went on to assignments in Alaska, Louisiana, Korea, Germany and California. I retired in 2005 as a SMSgt and now reside in Las Vegas, NV and work on Nellis AFB as the Deputy Flight Commander for the Intel Systems Flight, 547th Intel Sq.
Posted 12-10-07
David R. Jungnitsch, CMSgt, Feb 1984 - Feb 1985
luckyfugie@verizon.net
I was stationed at Wallace Air Station from February 1984 - February 1985 with Operating Location-F, 1961st Communications Group. I lived in the Peralta compound, Felix Subdivision. My supervisors were MSgt Ralph A. McFetridge and MSgt Herbert S. Hornung. The Operating Location Chief was CMSgt Earl K. Waller.
Posted 1-27-09
MSgt(s)
Duane Baker, 1990 - 1991
1961 CG OL-F
Duane.Baker-02@charleston.af.mil
I was in the 1961st CG OL-F while at Wallace from March 1990 - March 1991. I married a girl from San Fernando in August of 1992 named Janet Lagasca. We are still married and have a boy (11) and girl (8). We are currently stationed at Charleston AFB, South Carolina. Janet is now a Dental Hygienist and works as a contractor for the Air Force on the base. It is good to see some familiar names on the message board. I sure miss my days at the best remote in the USAF! I have been back 3 times since 1991 and it just isn’t the same as it was back in 1990. Cell # (843) 330-1854
Posted 1-27-09
MSgt Michael R. Howarth, 1990 - Pinatubo
Angeli@satx.rr.com
My name is Angeli. I’m from Baguio City. I am married to MSgt Michael R. Howarth. He was in WAS from 1990 until Mt Pinatubo erupted, worked at Transportation Squadron particularly as a fire truck mechanic. He still active but will retire as soon as he comes back from the sandbox (2008) timeframe. We bought a home in San Antonio, Texas.
Posted 1-27-09
Marc Hanje, A1C, 1975
MarcHanje@tampabay.rr.com
Hi my name is Marc Hanje. I was an A1C here in 1975 as an AC&W operator. I was only here 7 months - I came in with a small group from Taipei, Taiwan, when the US had to leave, to finish our tours here at Wallace. I lived downtown…
To be honest, I don’t remember too much (or the people) from Wallace. The one name I do remember was TSgt Auggie Clark, he was my NCOIC there – he got me outta trouble with the colonel the morning after one of those nights that started with a WASCOM membership drive, then to the Cherry Blossom, then to his house. After curfew, when I got back to a friend’s house, I fell off the wall trying to climb over the gate to unlock it. In the AM, they got me to work some how; I sat scope and then crashed in the briefing room. Anyway, he saved my butt.
I’d love to say hi to him if anyone knows where he’s at… I also met a girl there who was in the Admin shop – she was from Brecksville, Ohio (south of Cleveland) – her brother was our paper boy!
Some of the more important things that I’ll never forget: So many days the clouds would roll in from the mountains, over the site and out over the water ending the day with an amazing sunset. The Fly By’s; mostly between the bubbles; but I remember one where the F4 seemed like it skipped off the waves… Swimming under some waterfall south of Wallace, Baguio City– what a beautiful place – sat on hill side and all I could hear was the wind in the pines… Helicopter ride along the beaches heading south to Clark AB Anyway - any and all hellos are welcome… God Bless
Posted 1-27-09
John Manion, A1C, Dec 12, 1980 to Dec 12, 1981
Wallace Power Plant
john.manion@auab.centaf.af.mil
Wallace was my first assignment, and what an assignment it was. I met my wife at Wallace and we are still married (26 years) we have 2 beautiful daughters.
Posted 1-27-09
Jim Goodman, SMgt (ret) 71-72 & 75-76
james2357@sbcglobal.net
Many ...many memories of wallace and the people of poro ..........i left a large chunk of my heart there and the memories will always be with me .......so many names and faces .....things we did and experienced......i love you all.
Posted 1-27-09
SSGT
Stephen W. Tenpenny, 1968
- 1969
10penny427@att.net
I was part of Detachment 6 of the 1961st. Com Group stationed at Wallace from May, 1968 to July, 1969. I stay in close touch even today with my best AF friend, SSGT. Sid Poe, who now resides in Bend, Oregon. I was NCOIC of the Radio Relay (Telephone) Section, and Sid was in the Air to Ground section. We had a great, memorable time at Wallace AS. We drank a lot of San Miguel on ice at the Harbor Light in Poro.
Posted 1-27-09
Anthony
Barkdoll, SrA, 1989-1990
Ground Radio Maintenance
anthonybarkdoll@bellsouth.net
Hey all - especially good to hear Steve Kapp survived and was there to the end. Steve had the best stories - some I still pass on (like the one about the old retired guy who picked up a girl who turned out to be a boy). I've only been in touch with one guy since then, Chris Smuck. I was a radio maintenance guy in the comm building - I probably didn't stand out, but check out my online photos and, maybe you'll recognize me.
http://picasaweb.google.com/AnthonyBarkdoll
I'll tell you what though, I saw many a good man go bad at Wallace. I won't name names - you know who you are. There was only one married man I ever saw there who never strayed, and he was my immediate boss. Can't remember his name - Steve Kapp might remember - but he was a solid Christian, and stayed on base as much as possible. I had much respect for him. I stayed out of trouble with the local girls mainly because I dated one of the local rich girls that hung out at the WASCOM. I had to break it off when I left, but she made it back to the US eventually with the help of someone from Wallace. Her name was Norma Bagalay. Also can't remember the name of the MSGT in charge of comm at that time -he was a character. If any of your remember any of these names, leave a post.
Anyone remember those crazy jeepney drives from Wallace to Baguio? Talk about scary. I remember one trip, the driver was drunk, and we're navigating these mountain passes on skinny roads. I think the only reason we didn't care was because we were in the same shape as him. At that time you had to sign off base, and you'd get in trouble if you didn't let someone know where you were. And I think we barely made it back before curfew. There was a guy on that bus with me - and you came and visited me in th Netherlands - and I can't remember your name!! Jeff?? We had a good time in Amsterdam, didn't we. Thanks for not telling on us!
Anyway, after WAS, I was stationed at Soesterberg in the Netherlands. That's a whole other website!!! I loved Wallace, but Holland was a whole other story. Got out in 92, went to UGA in Athens GA, got a degree in Graphic Design. Now married with 3 kids. and own a video production company called Athens Video. ( www.athensvideo.com )
Hope to hear from you guys on this board some. It's fun reading all the posts.
Posted 1-27-09
Steve Whaley, A1c, 9/68 - 10/69
Radar Maintenance
steve-evets@comcast.net
Wallace was my first duty assignment. What a wonderful shock for an 18 year old. First night there, (hadn't even unpacked yet) the guys took me to town. Went swimming nude at the Crestaola resort with them and a bunch of girls. Woke up in the morning all tangled in mosquito netting and a cute girl. Had no idea where I was so found a jeepney driver and told him to take me to Wallace which he agreed to for 20 pesos. He made a left turn and drove about 100 feet and I was at the gate. It only got better from there. Would like to find Bernie Wakoviac, Jan Steer, John Norton, and chief Hauser Also believe there was a crazy Tsgt at the time named Tommy Thompson.. Hook me up if you have any info. BTW, it was during my time the Tired Tigers nickname came about, and we even had a patch designed and made which said "Every man is a tiger" I still have the patch.
Posted 1-27-09
Steve Whaley, A1C, Sep 1968 - Nov 1969
Radar Maintenance
steve-evets@comcast.net
I was one of 4 newbies straight out of tech school at Keesler. Myself, Mark Leppart, Neil Marquardt and Virgil Browning. Sgt Bernie Wakoviac was assigned as my trainer and he started me off the very first night. Down to the Harbor Lights where he introduced me as the newest Cherry in the PI, which garnered lots to attention. Later down to the Cresta ola beach resort where somehow we all ended up swimming naked in the pool while people above watched all the crazy "joes" I woke in the morning, tangled in mosquito netting and arms and legs of a pretty gal. Must have had a good time cause she was all smiles. I needed some coffee, badly, so took off in search of Wallace AS. Having no idea where I was, I stopped the first jeepny I saw and he agreed to take me to Wallace for 20 pesos. Seemed high, but again, I had no idea where I was. I hopped in, he went about 40 yards, made a left and went maybe another hundered yards and I was at the gate. And it just kept getting better the whole 13 months.
Not long after a typhoon was coming through. At the time we had a portable height finder on a trailer between the search radar and the maintenace/ops building. I don't remember this LT's name, but near the peek of the storm he sent us out to tie ropes to the sail and hang on to them to keep the radar from tipping over. Well, we weren't too impressed with that order, and after all, he was just a LT, so parts of the radar ended up over the cliff. Seemed like an awfull lot of fuss and paper work for such a little thing.
BTW, the nickname "Tired Tigers" originated during my tour there. We even got a patch approved which claimed "every man is a tiger". I still have it and I smile fondly every time I look at it. I will try to take a picture and send it along for all to enjoy.
I was also there when the tech Ron Schmidt was killed. He was a hec of a guy. The events as I recall them differ from others here. He had been playing cards early in the evening on Wallace. Later in the night he came to town and met up with me at the harbor lights. Much later we started hitting the other places and eventually headed more toward San Fernando. Late in the night he wanted to go to a town on the main road that I knew had a reputation for not appreciating the boys from Wallace. I tried and tried to convince him that it wasn't a good idea but eventually he went his way and I went back to the base. The next morning we got the news of his death and I was told he tried to pick up the wife of the mayor of the town he wanted to go to. The mayor responded by killing him. That's how I remember it.
On a lighter note, I remember sitting on the beach in the evening, and having all those pretty shells walk up the beach past me. Also renting bonca boats at 4 am and going fishing, and catching dolphin which "Shorty" in the chow hall glady cooked in exchange for some (actually most) of the fish. I remebr seeing schools of flying fish too, brilliant with the reflections of the rising sun. And that crazy warrant officer. The one with the hollow aluminum cane. I saw cheerios, beer, rum, and all sorts or other items come out of that cane. I remember the gecho lizard under the search radar whose voice was rather hi pitched when I first got there, but which became much deeper by the time I left 13 months later. I remember taking half a day off to get a haircut because it took that long. And standing in the pay line and getting paid in silver certificates, then paying the nco club which took most of my $37.00 but still having enough to make it to town 4 out of 5 night for the next 2 weeks. How about the day the guys in the exchange decided to put the flash cubes up on a high shelf in the BX and then the Height finder radar made a bunch of them flash. Those poor guys almost looked Caucasian when the ran out of the building. Or the night while drinking in the mess when someone dug a ditch across the base and I fell in it. My nose swelled too gigantic and I was forever known as "the nose" after that. Then there was the episode of putting lighter fluid on our fatigues, lighting it and running into the medics screaming "Doc I'm burning". I remember the night we snuck off base in the midst of a tyhoon too. Couldn't find any company in town so ended up hunkering down in a hotel with a tin roof and listening to coconuts fall on the roof all night. I remember when the Russians had lauched a satelite and we got involved in trying to help break the code. By doing things like changing the search channel to change frequency at given time hacks and turning other stuff on and off. We felt so important and James Bondish.
Yes, it was a memorable tour. Thank goodness I was only 19 and up for it. It would kill me now. But I'd try it again, given the chance.
I would love to hear from anyone over there during my time. Bernie Wakoviac, Jan Steer, Smsgt Hauser, Tommy, Lennie (married Stella), Bob Schrewsbury, Mark Leppart, Neil Marquard, to name a few of the names that I still remember.
Thanks for the opportunity to share here. I hope they give you a laugh and prompt more people to share their experiences.
Posted 4-18-10
Niguel Williams, A1C, Feb 91-the unpleasantry w/ the volcano, Ops
nigueljwms@yahoo.com
This is incredibly neat. Brings back memories and even some stuff I didn’t even remember (I was sober virtually all of the time believe it or not). Also did gate guard duties post volcano until the evac and helo refueling. Went to Gozar Island for one of the big exercises. Even went on two MEDCAPs. Witnessed the last flight of the F-4s when they left Clark AB and ultimately the PI; they gave us a low bubble-check between the search and height radars and did a graceful Himmelman on the way out. Saw Mt Pinotubo erupt on radar (my birthday ironically) and the drone crash into the park near Ops (renamed “Drone Park”). Truly the best kept secret in the AF. Was lucky enough to get to Manila (well Quezon City anyway; thanx Phil and Arnie!) and Baguio. Glad I wasn’t a first term Airman when I got; might’ve gotten an…ah…askew view of the AF ;0).
Posted 4-18-10
Steve Burstein, Captain, Radar Maintenance, July 1966 to August
1967
smburstein@yahoo.com
I would like to hear from Ray Pelliter, a Raytheon Logistics expert, and SMSgt Eugene Scott, or anybody else that I was stationed with. I enjoyed playing golf in Bagio with Lts Ed Albert, and Jim O'shea.
Posted 4-18-10
Andy Pickelhaupt, SGT, 1971 - 1972
apickel@advnet.net
My name is Andy Pickelhaupt SGT, stationed at Wallace from August 71 until November 72. Det 2 14th Aerospace. Ground radio repairman. It was a great assignment albeit not as good as my first at Homestead. Here are some other names from my era Frank Holtzclaw, Mike Foslid, George Zimmerman, John Stoltz, Mike Gonzales, Bob Mathews, Dean Degarmo, Gilberto Agosto, Randy Wilkerson, Leo Fulcher. Who can forget the goats running around the base, the Wascom, the chow hall, the million steps down to the beach, Baguio, the Crestola, John Hay and that golf course, and of course the Rabbit.
Posted 4-18-10
Stephen W. Faulknerm, 1967 - 1968
ststeven07@comcast.net
Hi Guys, Ok, the Internet has afforded me an opportunity to remember old times. I am Stephen W. Faulkner Airman 1st Class 30454 - Ground radio Det 6, 1961st Comm Wallace Air Station 1967-1968 Presently live in-between Baltimore, MD and Harrisburg, PA Website: www.RobinsDocksideShop.com Phone numbers there ring to my desk. Happy that I found the site. Keep up the good work. Best Regards Stephen (410) 609-4044
Post 4-18-10
Annette Witlox Flannery, Capt, Senior
Director, 1990-1991,
inkidog@yahoo.com
Wow, that place holds so many wild memories for me and the people really made that remote great. I was one of the last people to leave that place after packing it up and moving everything down to Clark to join the Pinatubo People! It was actually my best assignment despite how much I whined about being stuck there!!!
Posted 4-18-10
Larry Johnson, SSgt
lajohnson251@verizon.net
Ran the one-man post office.
Posted 4-18-10
James Gorski, Retired, Operations, 1981-1982, 1985-1986,
1988-1991
gorskcj@msn.com
I am currently a CPA working at a large accounting firm in the Seattle area & would like to say hello to anyone who remembers me from the years that I was there.
Posted 4-18-10
Mike Krueger, A2C, February 1967 - April
1968
Power Production
michael.krueger@ase-consult.com
Often think of my tour of duty at Wallace Air Station. Many good times and have good friends, wish I would have kept in touch with them. After Wallace, I was reassigned to Vandenberg AFB for the remainder of my enlistment. Still have a few pictures around. Nice to see that there is a message board.
Posted 4-18-10
Keith Owens
Keith.Owens@aecom.com
My name is Keith Owens. My family was posted to John Hay AB from 1971 to 1974. My parents were Capt. Ralph E. (Eddie) and Beverly Owens. I’ve tried to respond to Ron Davis’ message, but keep getting an error message. I would love to hear from anyone from John Hay or Brent School.
Posted 4-18-10
Jesse Tolliver (MSgt Ret) Nov 1981
– Nov 1982
1961 CG Det 6/OL-F, Radio Maintenance
livergai@earthlink.net
Wallace was the best assignment of my career. I can kick myself for not extending there. I tried to get stationed back in the PI every since I left Wallace, but could never get lucky enough to get another assignment there. I did go back there a few times on vacation, but never made it back to see Wallace. I was in the PI on leave a month before Pinatubo blew. It was strange to see how quickly things changed with the U.S. military presence after that happened. When I was there on leave I remember Ron Rand on FEN saying there was nothing to worry about with Pinatubo, and it seems like right after I came back to the states, actually I had just arrived at my new assignment in Panama, I hear on the news that Pinatubo erupted, and the military were being evacuated. Anyway, great site here, brings back a lot of pleasant memories.
Posted 4-18-10
Bob Shrewsbury, Sgt, Jan 1969 - Jan 1970
Radar Maintenance (T2 – T4)
bobshrewsbury@yahoo.com
I was looking for photos of the old Phillipine Rabbits when I came across this web site. Reading the posts brought back a lot of memories. This was my second assignment. My first out of tech school was Charleston, SC. I am bad at names, but I remember Ray Budda, SMSgt Ludwig M. M. Hauser, Capt Bell, Lennie, Mark, Neil , and Steve. Not to be repeating everyone else, but this was a dream assignment. The assignment was so great that if you were married and wanted to extend, you must have written acknowledgement from your wife! There was a local police (Pete) who was the son of the woman that ran the Harbor Lights, who always looked after us when we were bending our elbows at the Cherry Blossom, Yellow Submarine, and Jeno’s. He drove a red and white ford Bronco with a cage for drunks in the back. He carried a chrome plated Thompson .45 sub machine gun. One day when we left one bar and went to another, he forgot his Thompson at the other bar. He told this little boy (5 – 7 years old) to go get his Thompson for him. About ten minutes later, in the bar came the little boy carrying the Thompson over his shoulder with a big grin on his face. I got married in Wallace, J. Coker was my best man. That was a mistake, not my best man, but the marriage. Four years later I had another assignment to Wallace, but found a way to change assignments to Yakota, Japan. My wife and I were having problems (stationed in Mississippi) and thought it would be better for my health if I changed assignments. Some guys told me I was crazy. I ran into Coker on a mountain top radar site in Virginia. Many years later, I ran into Steve in Honduras. I remember When the tech rep Ron Schmidt got killed. He was in Bawong. You would have thought the mayor had direct ties to the Chicago mafia. Paying attention to his wife was not good for one’s health. When we found out that Ron had been shot, the site security went to get him and were told to turn around and leave under pointed guns. We later recovered his body from under a horse blanket in a shack. To the best of my memory, he was divorced and there was a problem of somebody in the states accepting his body. I remember for Christmas in 1969, we made a screen wire panel that we placed florescent bulbs in the shape of a star. I used the tower rope on the outside of the bubble to climb to the top and suspended the panel on the outside of the radome. When the height radar antenna was azimuthed to the star, it would light up from the radiation. You could see it at night if you were in Bagio. Once, one of the guys had indulged too much and threw up beside the road. The next morning he couldn’t find his dentures. We took off in a Jeepney and found the place where he threw up. He had his teeth back. One night when I was at the Cherry Blossom, Pete took me to a shack on the beach where the locals were playing cards and drinking San Miguel and Ginebra Gin. On the stove was a huge skillet of diced meat slowly cooking. At one point the guys stopped playing cards to eat and offered some to me. It tasted great, especially after a number of San Miguels. Later when Pete took me back to the Cherry Blossom, the girls kept kidding me that by my breath they knew that I had eaten dog. I told them no way in hell. Pete then told me that that was exactly what the men were eating. Maybe it did smell, but it was nothing compared to the baluts (?). There is nothing that can compare to riding a Rabbit to Clark while half loaded on San Miguel, with chickens running around pooping on the floor, and half the people eating baluts. Now that is a breath of fresh air to die for! One night at the cherry Blossom, my buddy and I manufactured additional running lights from 6 volt lanterns for his motorcycle and headed off to Clark. Ten hours later we got there (should have been a four hour ride). What a night. We got there and found us a hotel. My buddy had seen someone he thought he knew from Vietnam and took off to a certain watering hole. While there he was arrested for assault on a girl. He really didn’t do it, at least according to him. The next thing I knew, the police were knocking on the door asking me if I knew a XXXX XXXX. I said yes and accompanied them to the jail. My friend needed to pay the girl hush money or stay in jail. I sold his motorcycle to raise the money. We left the next day on the train back to Wallace. When I first got to PI, I was supposed to catch a ride on a 2 ½ ton truck to Wallace AS. The night before had left me in no shape to ride on a pile of sand in the back of the deuce and a half to Wallace. I ended up taking the train. I got to Wallace before the truck got there. Along the way, the guerillas had hi-jacked the truck. The guys on the truck were finally freed when the PI military surrounded the truck and after a gun battle took control of the situation. I remember the lizard under the search tower who got so fat he could hardly fit between the vent slats under the tower. The drones were being used a lot for training. At that time they were recovered by helicopter. The drone would take off, F4s would lock on, the drones would change course at the time the missile on the F4s was fired, barely missing the drones. However, the Navy could not wait until the droned swerved, often shooting the drones out of the sky. If a drone had a successful flight, a white parachute was painted on the side of it. Not many of them had a large number of chutes painted on the side. F4 Phantom bubble checks were fantastic. The emails from the other individuals that have signed on brought back so many memories. So many stories I could tell, but some should be left alone as unforgettable memories. Thanks for the opportunity to walk down memory lane. I retired from the USAF after 25 years and I’m now working for ITT in South America. Have a great day.
Posted 4-18-10
Kathy (Azare) Rogers, 1983 - 1984
katrogers60@msn.com
Hi, my name is Kathy (Azare) Rogers and I was stationed at Wallace from 02/83 to 02/84. I worked in Ops as the Weapons Supervisor on Charlie Crew, Strike Force!!!! We had all the ops animals on our crew, and I think I was the only female on crew besides my crew commander. When Strike Force hit the junction to party in our yellow t-shirts and bandanas, all the heads turned.. It was funny, I use to sit outside at the tables while the guys were inside, doin what they did. We had a crazy guy from radar maintenance, Dan something, he would drink ESQ and eat balut, and tell us about the feathers and the beak. Sick!. I miss the pork chop sandwiches from the Galaxy, they were awesome. Me and Chris Hartmann lived right down the street from the Galaxy, very convenient. We were so spoiled over there, all the fresh seafood, cheap liquor, good friends and wonderful beach parties. I wish I could go back and retire there as well. Any of you that remember me and want to reunite, I'd love to hear from you. Take care everyone, and please let me know when the next reunion will be.
Posted 4-18-10
Tom Hearn, Msgt, 87-88
Chief of MWR/WASCOM Manager
Tom.Hearn@mvc.dps.mo.gov
My name is Tom Hearn, Msgt. and was the Chief of MWR/WASCOM Manager in 87-88. Great assignment but what an impossible place to manage MWR and a club with PACAF telling me how I had to do it. It is so nice to see others that also enjoyed Wallace and the many photos. My photos have been lost over the years so finding this site was really nice, great job and thanks.
Posted 4-18-10
Dan Ensch, Sgt, Operations, Aug 1979-Aug 1981
duckcapt@hotmail.com
Hi! Charles Mathers, Zeek Turner and I were talking about trying to get a reunion together. Anyone stationed at Wallace Air Station during these years please contact me. We would like to catch up with all our old friends from the rock. What a place, what a tour!
Posted 5-26-10
Dad Jones, 1963
djones@cheltenham.org
I was stationed at Wallace in 1963. How do I get added to the list? I played basketball for the 848 team in 1963 and have great pics of the game.
Posted 5-26-10
CMSgt, Jeff Hopson, 1985 - 1986 and 1988
- 1991 Pinatubo
tiredtiger69@yahoo.com
Now stationed at Spangdahlem, cold! Wishing for the hot days at Wallace. Heading to Cebu this summer, wife wants to see the folks. Would love to see Wallace again, would bring a tear to my eye. Any "Tired Tigers" out there?
Posted 5-26-10
SSgt. Stewart Cortes, 1996 - 1997
stewart.cortes@dhs.gov
Mabuhay to those who served at Wallace Air Station, My name is SSgt. Stewart Cortes served in Wallace in 1996-1997, I had some good memories at Wallace. Good Brotherhood and sisterhood. Miss them all.
Posted 5-26-10
James Giancola, 1963 - 1964
micheleboca@bellsouth.net
My name is James Giancola. I was stationed at Wallace Air Station from Feb. 1963 to Apr. 1964? as an airman 3rd & 2nd class. I was an Intercept Control Technician at the radar site. I was a member of the site basketball team that traveled to Subic Bay, John Hay Air Base and La Ponto mines to represent the base. Lt. Col. James Smith was base commander during most of that time. When I first arrived we were billeted in Quonset huts with outdoor showers supplied by rainwater in cisterns. Our chow hall/movie theater was also in a Quonset hut. Our club serviced both officers and enlisted men. The small town of Poro Point consisted of 5 bars, a very small store and a duck pin alley and was located about a mile from the base toward San Fernando. The new quarters were in the process of being built and were finished about six months before I finished my tour. Air Force bus transportation was provided to Clark AFB outside Angeles and John Hay AFB in Baguio City weekly. Air service was provided on an emergency basis.
Posted 5-26-10
Larry (Ski) Zulawski, SSGT, 1977 - 1980
and 1981 - 1983
lzulawski@comcast.net
Worked in operations as the Standardization Evaluation Tech and on Bravo Crew. I was the main ATC tech during our yearly operational audits. Married a local girl and still married after 28 years.
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