BALLOON TROOPERS ! SITREP PAGE

_______________________________________________________________________

6-14-07: Balloon Trooper Recovered in Indiana!

My mother recovered your Trooper Daniel and asked that I email you and give you the requested information. Trooper Daniel landed among the cows in our pasture near Greens Fork, Indiana. This is a small town in East Central Indiana, about 25 miles from the Ohio border. He actually was fairly close to Interstate 70. He was found on 5-18-07, just one day after you launched him….he traveled quite a distance in a short amount of time! We may launch him again someday, when we have some helium!

L. Bowman Warsaw, IN 46581

6/11/06: BALLOON TROOPER FROM OHIO RECOVERED IN INDIANA!

----- Original Message -----
From: Ronda B.
To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net
Sent: Saturday, June 24, 2006 3:57 PM
Subject: Found Trooper

Name of the Balloon Trooper: Strongfire.
Launched By: John Bonjes, Camp Drake Ohio, 6/9/06.
Found by: Andrew U.
In Palmyra, Indiana on 6/11/06.

6/8/06: TWO BALLOON TROOPERS RELAUNCHED IN CLINTON, INDIANA!

Two Balloon Troopers were recovered by Ground Allies and were sent back into the skies to complete their missions! See below for photos of Troopers "Coolster" and "George" being relaunched, as well as their original Mission Papers.

From: "Chris W." To: Sent: Tuesday, June 20, 2006 6:46 AM Subject: Status Report

Daniel,

George and I lifted of at 1930 hours on June 8, 2006. It was a sunny evening and visibility was great. We had planned to lift off earlier but due to the quantity of supplies we had acquired, during our short stay, for the next leg of our journey, we did not have enough balloon power. However, after attaching several more balloons, we were ready for takeoff. Before leaving, we had our picture taken with our new balloons. I have sent them to you so you can see that George and I are fine. The launch was a little scary. About thirty feet off the ground we had a minor problem when one of the balloons ran out of fuel. Nevertheless we continued to gain altitude as we headed southwest from our prior landing spot in Clinton Indiana. Talk to you soon. Your friend and Comrade Coolster

6/5/06: TWO BALLOON TROOPERS RECOVERED IN CLINTON, INDIANA!

** BTHQ, USA received the following two emails regarding two Balloon Troopers who were launched from Camp Drake in Illinois, then crossed state lines and were recovered by friendly Ground Allies in Indiana. Trooper "Coolster", launched by Daniel, and Trooper "George", launched by Michael, are in good hands and may be relaunched soon!

----- Original Message ----- From: "Chris W" To: Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 5:35 AM Subject: Balloon Trooper

Michael

Just to let you know, I made a safe landing in the little town of Clinton Indiana, about 50 miles Southeast of Camp Drake on June 5, 2006. It was a great flight with no major difficulties. The balloons that I used worked great and drifted nicely through the air. However, rations ran low during the flight and I decided that I needed to resupply before I continued my Journey. As I approached the landing site, I was a little worried that I might overshoot it and land in the Wabash River, but the wind died down and I landed safely near a lilac bush on S. 8th Street. My buddy Coolster landed with me. He is doing fine as well. We spent the night outside gathering valuable information about the locals where we landed. From our observations it appeared that we were still in friendly territory, so the decision was made that we would come out of hiding at first light and further explore the area. Our location was discovered about 0600 hours on June 5th by the owner of the bunker that I landed near and his four legged friend. I was nervous at first, but it became apparent that I was not in danger. He took me in the bunker and supplied me with food and water. He is in the process of repairing the damage that was done to my balloon during landing. After studying the weather and wind currents, Coolster and I have decided that we will continue our journey on June 8th. We had planned to leave on June 7th, but due to weather conditions, we decided to postpone takeoff. Let the rest of the troops know that Coolster and I are great. Talk to you soon.

Your friend and comrade

George

----- Original Message ----- From: "Chris W" To: Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 5:32 AM Subject: Balloon Trooper

Daniel, Just to let you know, I made a safe landing in the little town of Clinton Indiana, about 50 miles Southeast of Camp Drake on June 5, 2006. It was a great flight with no major difficulties. The balloons that I used worked great and drifted nicely through the air. However, rations ran low during the flight and I decided that I needed to resupply before I continued my Journey. As I approached the landing site, I was a little worried that I might overshoot it and land in the Wabash River, but the wind died down and I landed safely near a lilac bush on S. 8th Street. My buddy George landed with me. He is doing fine as well. We spent the night outside gathering valuable information about the locals where we landed. From our observations it appeared that we were still in friendly territory, so the decision was made that we would come out of hiding at first light and further explore the area. Our location was discovered about 0600 hours on June 5th by the owner of the bunker that I landed near and his four legged friend. I was nervous at first, but it became apparent that I was not in danger. He took me in the bunker and supplied me with food and water. He is in the process of repairing the damage that was done to my balloon during landing. After studying the weather and wind currents, George and I have decided that we will continue our journey on June 8th. We had planned to leave on June 7th, but due to weather conditions, we decided to postpone takeoff. Let the rest of the troops know that George and I are great. Talk to you soon.

Your friend and comrade

Coolster

6/4/06: BALLOON TROOPER FROM CAMP DRAKE RECOVERED IN GEORGETOWN, IL!

From: Adam H. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 4:53 PM. Subject: I have recovered a balloon trooper.

My husband found Trooper Dave in our yard yesterday. We live at Warner Avenue in Georgetown, IL. He was launched by Steve on 6-3-06 from Camp Drake. We will relaunch him this week.

Kim H. :)

5/6/06: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN LIVERMORE, CA!

From: Arthur. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Saturday, May 06, 2006 8:58 AM. Subject: Trooper Recovered!!

Hello Trooper HQ,

Just want to let you know that I recovered the following trooper; Troopers name; Spider-man Launched by; Ca Jay Date launched; February 17, 2006 From; Warwick Adventure Time, Fremont, Ca. Serial # 1234567. Spider-man landed by El Rancho Drive and Rincon Street in Livermore, Ca. I just recovered him today. He is well and will now reside in a safe display cabinet. He also has the initials L.P. on the bottom of his stand.

Sincerely, A fellow Ground Allie,

3/4/06: BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN FAIRFIELD CA!

From: Terri. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Saturday, March 04, 2006 10:29 PM. Subject: BT Launch.

On March 4, 2006 at Kobe & Justen's 8th Birthday Party in Fairfield, CA at 1600 hrs under gray skies 21 brave troopers successfully took flight to unknown destinations. Some were sure they were headed to Vacaville; where ever their journey takes them we wish them a safe landing. The Launch Masters were: Logan, Shawn, Kishaun, Spencer, Zachary M., Carlotita, Chase, Eric, Annie, Kobe, Matthew, Justen, Richard, Zachary C., Isabella, Niles, Cassia, George(The Drummer), Brad, Terri, Justin & Heide.

2/19/06: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN CA!

From: Rocky Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2006. To: 'ballontrooperhq@att.net' Subject: Trooper Cooler/Abby #8

We found Trooper Cooler in our yard located on Bunker Hill in Amador City, CA 95601. The weather was cold and rainy but the balloon and Trooper Cooler were in good condition. Cooler was discovered Saturday morning at approximately 0900 on Saturday, February 18, 2006. Good luck to Abby #8 and the entire class at Warwick Elementary School.

2/17/06: MASS BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH FROM "WARWICK ADVENTURE TIME", IN FREMONT CA!

From: Terri. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Subject: Balloon Trooper launch. On Feb. 17, 2006 under cloudy, gray skies Warwick Adventure Time had it's third and probably final Balloon Trooper launch. {their Commander retired as of this date} There were several small launches throughout the day with the mass launch at 1530 hrs. Each launch was successful with a total of 74 Troopers taking to the sky to complete their mission. We wish them well and eagerly await word of their safe recovery.

12/15/05: ANOTHER BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN CA!

From: David D. To: BalloontrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Thursday, December 15, 2005 4:42 PM. Subject: Balloon #1023. Hi we found your balloon on our land in mid November. The note is pretty worn out but it looks like it is launched by Chelsea on 4/22/05 from Warwick Street. in Fremont, Ca. by Adventure Time Extended Day care. We are on 113 acres 7 miles west of highway 101 between Hopland and Ukiah. We were out for a hike and my daughter found the note and what was left of the balloon. Your balloon sure made a long flight. Dave

10/28/06: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN CA!

From: Jef R. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Friday, October 28, 2005 1:17 PM. Subject: Trooper R2D2.

Hello,

I found Trooper Sergent P. In Livermore Ca. He was launched by Mike on 6-03-05 from Fremont. His serial # is R2D2. I found him in good health and ready for another mission. He did ask about Mike who launched him and wanted to send Mike a thank you for giving him a successful launch.

Best regards,

Jef R.

10/26/05: ROCKY RAMS TRAILBLAZERS (CANADIAN JUNIOR FOREST WARDENS) CONDUCT LARGE LAUNCH AND GET FIRST RECOVERY!

To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2005. Subject: Balloon Trooper.

"Hello We are the Junior Forest Wardens from Rocky Mountain House AB. We saw your web site and decided to try it ourselves. On Oct. 19, we launched about 30 troopers. Some were 1 balloon, some 2, and a couple with 5. On Oct. 25 we had one trooper, with one balloon, recovered East of Strathmore. This was a flight of about 200 Km. Our wind speed was about 20 gusting to 40 km/hr. so it must have been in the air for at least 5 hrs.

We have some pictures of our launch if you would like them for your site.

Thank You for the idea! Rocky Rams Trailblazers."

7/13/05: BT SCIENCE PROJECT REPORTS 11 BT RECOVERIES FROM JUNE LAUNCHES! Our friends in Texas at the BTSP, reported today that they have received 11 SITREPS from various Ground Allies who have recovered their Balloon Troopers! BTSP launched a total of 287 Balloon Troopers in June on three different launch dates and have had fantastic recovery success and much good BT fun!

6/25&26/05: OUR GOOD FRIENDS AT BT SCIENCE PROJECT CONDUCT ANOTHER MASS BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN TEXAS!

From: "Gary". To: Sent: Monday, June 27, 2005 6:33 AM. Subject: Re: Trooper Launch.

Balloon Trooper Science Project Mission Control in Manvel, Texas, launched 232 Troopers over the June 25th, 26th weekend. Weather conditions were near perfect and all troopers made succesful launches except one who remains stuck in a tree 50 yards from the launch location. BaTSAR (Balloon Trooper Search & Rescue Team) determined that this Trooper was in no danger and did not institute a rescue (to give the Trooper a chance to free himself.) If he is still in the tree this evening, BaTSAR will perform the rescue. We will keep you informed of recoveries. Thanks!

**** Check out the Balloon Trooper Science Project's excellent web site at: www.mylifeonplanetearth.net

5/5/05: THE NETHERLANDS CONDUCTS THE LARGEST KNOWN BALLOON TROOPER MASS LAUNCH EVER!

Email: Donald@screamingducks.com. Date: Wednesday May 11, 2005. Comments: Hey Fellow Balloon Trooper maniacs. In my city of IJsselstein (The Netherlands) we celebrated our 60th Liberation Day on May the 5th. In the morning we launched a stunning 2,000 balloons with my variant of the "Ballon Paratrooper" !! Check the pictures:

http://www.screamingducks.com/BalloonTrooper11.html

So far 19 Balloon Troopers have been recovered, 3 of them landed in Belgium (150 kilometers distance). We used latex balloons, 220 gram paper troopers. Browse around in my extensive Ballon Trooper section, I am the only one in The Netherlands organising these launches !!!

Hang Tough !!! Donald

5/2/05: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN SONOMA, CA!

From: Sam H. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Monday, May 02, 2005 7:43 AM. Subject: Balloons.

We found a note attached to some balloons in our field in the town of Sonoma on the corner of East MacArthur and Seventh Street East. It was launched by Matthew, Serial #56220. Please let me know that you got this email and more about the event.

Farmer Sam

4/22/05: TWO TROOPERS RECOVERED IN PLEASANTON, CA!

From: M S. To: balloontrooperhq@att.net. Sent: Friday, April 22, 2005 5:32 PM. Subject: Warwick School, Fremont, CA.

We found Balloon Trooper Capt. Bobina, from Humna, Serial Number MYOB first launched today, April 22, 2005 from Warwick School. Trooper Capt. Bobina was found on the Palomares Road which is near Pleasanton, CA Approx. one mile before we found Capt. Bobina we recovered Gen. Adrian, from Angelo, Serial Number 74723 on the same road and he was also launched the same day. Both troopers were very wet since a storm came through the bay area. We will put them in foul weather gear (sandwich bags) and will relaunch them on Saturday, April 23, 2005. This is really a fun project! Sincerely, Cliff and Marilyn, Pleasanton, CA.

4/22/05: LARGE BT LAUNCH AT WARWICK ADVENTURE TIME, FREMONT, CA!

On 4-22-05, as a grand finale to our Up, Up and Away week, Warwick Adventure Time launched a total of 49 Balloon Troopers from Warwick School in Fremont, CA. 4 Troopers were launched at 1320hrs under sunny skies by Chelsea, Danielle, Kendra and Christina. The remaining Troopers were launched at 1530hrs under dark clouds, by Angelo, Jordan, Arianna, Anthony, Spencer, Jacob, Nicole, Megan, Kathryn, Marissa, Humna, Isabella, Joyce, Marcus, Julian, Tad, Molly, Kevin, Darien, Andrew, Owen, Michael, Kelsey, Matthew, Gabriella, Abigail, Sabrina, Ty, Daniel, by Taya, Chloe, Tabitha, Pooja, Janelle, Nikhil, Cassia, Bobby, Derrick, Atul, Cindy, Michael, Kim and Alicia.

Both launches were a success and the Troopers were tracked until they disappered from sight. Some of the Mission Papers had a launch date of 4-20-05 but were launched on this date{launched 4-22-05 was written on outside of Mission Papers}. We were a little concerned about weather conditions but it was exciting to get a SITREP that 2 of our Troopers had been located! Thank You BTHQ for coordinating everything for us.

4/19/05: BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN FREMONT, CA! Hi! We are planning to launch Balloon Troopers this week from our before and after school day care center. Also we would like to send you the details of our launch so the children can stay updated when and if their Balloon Trooper is found. This is going to be a great activity for our Up, Up & Away week. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thank You, Warwick Adventure Time, Fremont, CA.

2/7/05: TROOPER RECOVERED IN GEORGIA!

Hello my name is Ethan and I found one of your balloons.I live in Mount Airy GA 30563. I was ridding my bike on my dirtbike trail through the woods and I saw something white and I picked it up and read it was so cool to find one of those things. I go to school at NH Middle School. I am In the 7th grade I am 14 years old. The troopers name is commander Mike and it was launched by Jackson.

11/23/04: TROOPER RECOVERED IN PENNSYLVANIA!

From: "Sandra B." To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net. Sent: Tuesday, November 23, 2004. Subject: Trooper Found.

We are pleased to tell you that Balloon Trooper Twister, launched by Ricky, was safely recovered in our yard in Spring Mount, PA on November 22. He is doing just fine and sends his best wishes. We look forward to him being with us for the holidays. Happy Thanksgiving! Kindest regards, The Brown Family.

PS - Twister was launched by Ricky of Cub Scout Pack 161 in Laurendale, PA on November 20. He was attached to 2 blue balloons, one of which had burst and the other was still hovering about 4 feet above ground. Best holiday greetings!

______________________________________________________________________

11/6/04: SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH from MANASSAS, VIRGINIA!

A successful launch of 48 balloon troopers took place at approximately 7:30 p.m. from Manassas, Virginia, USA, in honor of Joseph's 10th Birthday! The launch area itself was brilliantly illuminated by spotlights so the men were seen floating straight up to the sky. Trees surrounded the launch area and an extremely loud cheer was heard by all the neighbors as the troopers appeared to easily clear the treetops. We wish the troopers Blue Skies and Soft Landings and look forward to hearing about their travels soon!!!!!

10/8/04: MASS BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN WISCONSIN!

"Date:Oct 8 2004. Location: Avy”s Woods Alma Wis. Event: Avy’s Woods dedication. Four generations of family and friends from Minn., Wis., and Ill. were on hand to help celebrate the dedication Of Avy’s Woods. After the sign was christened with a bottle of wine, and 25 family trees were planted, the launch took place. It was from high on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Thirty Five troopers were launched by both kids and adults. Most of the troopers were last seen going west towards the river (hope they are good swimmers) while the last few stragglers were headed southeast over the bluff. The launch was considered a success by commanders A. and A. Fun was had by all!

10/6/04: FOUR BALLOON TROOPERS LAUNCHED IN MINNESOTA!

Four balloon troopers were launched as a prep flight for a huge launch that will be held on Oct 9 2004 at Avy’s Woods in Alma Wisconsin. These four troopers were Launched Oct 6 at 5 pm from Golden Valley Minnesota. K launched LT D, A launched PFC N, M launched Sgt BD and S launched Trooper B.

8/31/04: BALLOON TROOPER FROM PACK 163 RECOVERED IN PA!

We found trooper - Captain Justin W. of Pack 163 launched from Shoemakersville, PA on July 24th 2004. He was found in our yard on Sunday Road in Windsor Twp near Lenhartsville PA on July 25th 2004.

8/13/04: BALLOON TROOPERS LAUNCHED IN EVENING SHADE, MO! (The Evening Shade BT Unit has been one of our most active BT Units over the past couple of years. Blue Skies to y'all!)

"Sir, Four Balloon Troopers were launched yesterday from Evening Shade, MO. Adam R. launched Sgt. B., Lauren R. launched Sgt. F., A.J. R. launched Sgt. B., and all launched Sgt. H.. All troopers flew to the South, (towards Arkansas) and were tracked until out of sight. There were no malfunctions. Sgt. H. was a special experimental trooper that had a second covering bag to catch the escaping helium. Hopefully he will be able to travel further than the others. The idea is to attempt to get a trooper into the jet stream so he can travel further. Photos will follow. V/R Al R."

8/10/04: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN GLENDALE CALIFORNIA! BTHQ received this fine SITREP today:

Tuesday, August 10, 2004 11:37 AM From: Janet K. To: BalloonTrooperHQ@att.net

"SGT Bob reporting for duty. My mission was successful. I took off from the Rose Bowl on Sunday August 8th, I was launched by Chase. I landed safely near the 2nd green at Oakmont country club (sadly, I was out of bounds).

I was taken home by a local civilian and was shown to her visiting nephew and his friend who are currently stationed at Fort Irwin, and will shortly join the ranks of Captain. These two friends graduated from Westpoint in 2001 and will be shipping out to the Middle East shortly. They enjoyed visiting with me. We shared stories and passed around a bottle. I was left behind when they departed for Fort Irwin. I am going into retirement and will be traveling until I get to my new home in Grass Valley, CA.

I am sad to say that while continuing her golf game this civilian recovered a portion of a green balloon. My fellow soldier was nowhere to be found.

Over and out! Yours Truly, SGT Bob"

8/8/04: BALLOON TROOPERS LAUNCHED FROM PASADENA, CA ROSE BOWL! At least 10 Balloon Troopers were launched from the famous Rose Bowl Flea Market by various youngsters (and a couple not-so-youngsters) throughout the day. It was lots of fun for all!

7/28/04: PENNSYLVANIA BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN NEW JERSEY! "Hi, My name is Tracy S., and I am 18 and a college student at The College of New Jersey. I received a balloon from Isaac B.(Spell?) from Pack 163. I can't make out what the Balloon Trooper's name is because it got smudged from the rain. I found it on July 28 in Holland Twp. New Jersey at the Riegel Ridge Baseball Field while I was watching my boyfriend play baseball. Holland Twp. is within 5 minutes from Milford, NJ and 10 minutes from Frenchtown,NJ is you are unfamiliar with my town. I was so excited to receive this, and I think it is a great idea. Please thank Isaac on my behalf! Sincerely, Tracy S."

7/24/04: BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH BY SCOUT PACK 163 IN PENNSYLVANIA! "Our scouts will be launching off the Balloon Troopers tomorrow at our summer event. We look forward to tracking just how far their missions take them. Thank You. Audra Schreiner. Den Leader."

7/23/04: 3RD ANNUAL BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH NEAR ROCHESTER NEW YORK! The Deeley's hosted a family reunion BT Launch (a family tradition now for the 3rd year in a row involving Deeley's, Elliott's, Sinclairs, Donohoe's and many more!)

6/30/04: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN GEORGIA!

BTHQ just received this recovery report and we hope the unknown Launch Team that sent this Trooper up will get in touch with us to let us know when and where the launch occurred:

To: paratoys@yahoo.com. Subject: recovery report. Date: Wed, 30 Jun 2004.

"Hello Mack Mothorp ! My name is Jayne McFarland. I live in Winder, Ga. I found your paratrooper on Tuesday June 29,2004. He landed safely in my backyard. I just had a birthday on saturday the 26th. Your trooper was an unexpected surprise. I attend County Line Elementary school, where do you go to school? I will start the 2nd grade in August. What grade are you in? Hope you have many more successful missions !! Bye, Jayne."

3/25/04: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN NEW JERSEY! Date: Thu, 25 Mar 2004. To: paratoys@yahoo.com. Subject: balloon trooper Stinko or Stinkarodo. From: blueloujr@netzero.net.

"Balloon Trooper launched by Billy on March 13th,2004 at his birthday party from Newton,N.J. was found in good shape on March 25,2004 in Shrewsbury Township, N.J. [Monmouth County]."

3/22/04: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN TEXAS! "Balloon Trooper May Connor, Serial ##### was found on Surfside Beach, Texas March 22, 2004. Please let us know where this Trooper was launched from. Thank you, Roxie. Surfside Beach is located about 45 miles south of Galveston, Tx." BTHQ NOTE: Turns out this Trooper was part of the Science Fair Project in Texas! They have had multiple Recoveries so far (see their link below for details.)!

3/19/04: BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN CANADA! "This is a message for Nikolas. We have found Maj Fox, your balloon trooper. We live on the east side of Medicine Hat, out in the country. It would be about 10 km from the city so I would guess that Maj Fox flew about 20 km from Echo Dale Park. On Friday, March 19, 2004, we found him stuck on our fence that is far away from our house. We have buffalo in that fence so it was a good thing that we found him, before the buffalo did. He might have been on that fence for a long time because we never went by that fence during the winter. Now that spring is here, we were checking the fence to make sure there were no holes for the buffalo to get through, and that is how we found your balloon trooper. Maj Fox is safe and warm in my house now. Would you like him back? I could mail him to you if you want to send him out on another mission. The trooper was in excellent shape, perhaps a bit faded in some parts of his body, but no "war wounds". The balloons were broken off. We could tell that there had been two balloons attached... a pink one and a dark blue one. There are only fragments of the balloons remaining where they were attached to the trooper. The note was all in tact, folded on his body... easy to unfold and clear to read. Overall, other than the balloons I would say everything was in excellent condition." BTHQ NOTE: IT TURNS OUT THAT MAJ. FOX WAS LAUNCHED BACK IN SEPTEMBER 2003! HE SPENT THE ENTIRE FALL AND WINTER IN THE FIELD AND SURVIVED TO BE FOUND 6 MONTHS LATER!

3/13/04: BIRTHDAY BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN NEW JERSEY! "Hi. We launched 11 balloon troopers [from Newton, New Jersey]. We launched them on saturday March 13, 2004 in the afternoon during my b-day celebration.One went behind our woods.We havn't gotten a sitrep yet but hope to soon.We will e-mail you asap if we get info."

3/5/04: Two Test Pilot Troopers were launched in Pasadena, CA today by J & R. The first was "Captain Luke C." who was testing a new Stringless "Rubberband Rig" (with a rubberband serving as Harness/Shroud Line.) See pic of this Rig on the Test Pilot Page. (Link below.)

The second Test Pilot Trooper was "unnamed" and was testing a 9" balloon to see if it had enough lift for a good launch. He struggled to get airborne in his small balloon, but eventually made it. Therefore it was decided that 11" balloons are best for easier launches with better lift power when heavier plastic Troopers are used. However if paper Troopers are used, a 9" balloon may suffice.

2/28/04-2/29/04: SEVERAL BT RECOVERIES IN TEXAS! There have been several Recoveries of Troopers launched by our friends at The Balloon Trooper Science Fair Project in Texas! Please check their web site where they will soon be posting all their fun Recovery information!

http://www.mylifeonplanetearth.net/

2/17/04: A prototype Balloon Paratrooper was launched in Pasadena by J & R. This Rig had a small store-bought "Ninja Parachutist" very lightly taped to the bottom of a large helium balloon. The launch went perfectly and it is assumed the balloon will eventually seperate from the parachute when the wind loosens the tape, or if the tape holds, perhaps the balloon will explode at high altitude. Either way, it'll cause our Ninja to float back down to earth in his parachute.

2/17/04: A prototype "Stringless" Balloon Trooper made of paper was launched by James & Reese in Pasadena. The brave Test Pilot Trooper was named "Capt. G." Cpt. G's test rig used two helium balloons without a Shroud Line. Cpt. G was secured to his balloons by pulling the balloon knots through a small hole punched in the paper near Cpt. G's head (which was made with a standard hole puncher.) See BALLOON TROOPER TEST PILOTS link at bottom of this page to view pictures of the test launch.

2/17/04: Two prototype "Balloon Paratroopers" were launched by James & Reese in Pasadena. These Troopers were made of paper and were tied to home made paper parachutes (made from paper towels and cotton string.) The design involved inflating a large helium balloon, inserting it under the parachute between the trooper and the parachute, then sending it aloft. The balloon is held in place nicely by the parachute strings as the Trooper rises in the sky. It is expected that at high altitude the balloons should pop, causing the parachutes to float down on their own, far from the launch site. The launch was a great success and the very first Balloon Paratroopers were last seen at high altitude, almost out of sight, heading Northwest (toward the San Gabriel Mountains.) See "Balloon Trooper Test Pilots" link at bottom of this page to view pictures of the test launch.

2/11/04 - 2/15/04: NEW BALLOON TROOPER SITE! We have just received word that a great new Balloon Trooper Site has been started which involves a whole new type of Mission for Balloon Troopers! Fully documented with outstanding action photos and detailed images, the site's Primary Mission is a Science Fair Project featuring several brave all-volunteer squadrons of Paper Balloon Troopers (based on a wonderful hybrid version of the Pennyweight Paratrooper and Balloon Trooper concepts.)

These elite Special Science Troopers will perform exciting Meteorological Study Missions in which they will help provide essential data about such things as weather patterns, wind speed, wind direction and the jet stream.

A couple dozen Special Science Balloon Troopers have already been launched, some in perilous night conditions and/or high wind conditions requiring the Rescue and Relaunch of two downed Troopers! We wish them all Blue Skies and Soft Landings! You can follow all their Progress, exciting Search & Rescue Reports and hopefully some Recoveries at their web site (link below):

http://www.mylifeonplanetearth.net/

10/23/03: TWO BALLOON TROOPERS RECOVERED IN CANADA! "Hi there! I am very happy to report that we have found your men! Captain Frisk launched by Brook, and Colonel Mell launched by Ashley were found south east of Medicine Hat in the Cypress Hills area. They were located by my dad on our ranch near Reesor Lake (1 mile north of the park entrance by Ressor Lake). They were located on October 23, 2003. Sorry for the delays with returning your email but my dad doesn't have email so he asked me to send you this message as soon as possible! He also has to report that he will continue to keep his eyes open for more of your men missing in action! Please return this message to confirm that you have received this message! Would you like your men returned? We will keep looking! Les & Dad. Walsh, AB."

** BTHQ Note: See links at bottom of this page to see a great newspaper photo and article all about the mass Canadian Balloon Trooper Launch that resulted in the two Recoveries noted above. This is the second year in a row that the Medicine Hat Jr. Forest Wardens in Canada have received media coverage about their mass Balloon Trooper launches! Great job Jr. FR's!

10/03. TROOPER RECOVERED IN PENNSYLVANIA! "POOPER SCOOPER" LAUNCHED BY AARON 4/15/03 FOUND! "Balloon Trooper Pooper Scooper was located in Ormsby, Pennsylvania (near the Kinzua Viaduct, outside Bradford, Pa) in October 2003 in hunting season. We are interested in knowing where this trooper originated. Please respond via email. Thank you." End SITREP.

** BTHQ has no record of the "Pooper Scooper" Launch location. If anyone has info as to where this Launch occurred, please get in touch.

10/06/03: FLORIDA TROOPER "BOB" RECOVERED IN NY STATE! "Yesterday 10/06/03 I found your balloon trooper. He did great. He made it to Lake Luzerne NY. Almost to Canada. I hope you recieve this e-mail. If you would like it back to try again let me know and I will mail him to you. It's pretty exciting. It was found in my back yard will taking my four dogs outside to potty. I am 43 yrs old. Good luck and happiness. The paper work with the trooper said he was launched from Glenwood Florida on 2-4-03 by Josh Miller. The trooper was named by Josh with the name BOB. I hope you will let him know what a great job his trooper did in getting to Lake Luzerne NY. Ellen." End SITREP.

** This is such a long flight (Florida to NY!) that it appears this Trooper "BOB" may have been relaunched by Ground Allies one or possibly several times on his way up the East Coast. Please get in touch if you have any info about this Trooper.

9/23/03: ANOTHER MASS LAUNCH IN CANADA BY THE JR. FOREST WARDENS OF MEDICINE HAT, ALBERTA! Another huge Mass BT Launch made the papers up in Canada. This is the second time the first rate Launch Masters with Jr. Forest Wardens had press coverage of their BT events. Outstanding photos and articles of the Launch are available at their web site at:

http://www.memlane.com/nonprofit/jfw/photos.html

8/24/03. Mass Balloon Trooper Launch in Upstate New York! The Second Annual "Family Reunion Mass Launch" was expertly hosted by the Donohoe Family and was much enjoyed by the young and the young at heart alike. The Mass BT Launch sent about 16 Troopers into the beautiful blue sky above Victor, NY, including two ultralight "Paper Troopers" (unique Balloon Troopers made from paper and launched by Brian D.) Photos to be posted soon.

7/13/03. Our apologies for the long delay in updating the SITREP Page. We have had a lengthy battle with computer problems but we have emerged victorious and now have a much better and stronger computer.

There has been much Balloon Trooper activity already this year. Several landed Troopers have been located and their fine Ground Allies have sent in excellent Recovery SITREPS per proper Balloon Trooper protocol. A big thanks to all Ground Allies who found Balloon Troopers and have reported in!

6/16/03. BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN MICHIGAN! I found your balloon trooper this afternoon (June 16) in my cottage garden just outside my house. It was not there earlier in the day. The trooper's name is Mrs. Ty and I beleive it was launched by Tyler Fosselke. I could not read the date it was launched and assumed it was launched at the Kiwanis Boy Scout Camp near Mason. The location said Kiwanis. It was found southwest of Mason at 3786 Lyon Road. Please let me know more about your project. Pat Mentzer

6/17/03. BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN MICHIGAN! The name of this balloon trooper is Mr. Two. It landed in my backyard in Grand Ledge, Michigan, USA.

6/17/03. BALLOON TROOPERS LAUNCHED IN MICHIGAN! I would like know if anyone sends in sightings for flights sent today. June 17th 2003. We launched from Camp Kiwanis in Mason Michigan. I was not the one who organized this event but would like to know how it went. I was wondering if we can do this with Girl Scouts (without the troops, maybe something animal)?

6/17/03. BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN MICHIGAN! I Shaun Smith have found Chase's Balloon Trooper at my farm on Harper Road in Mason.

6/17/03. BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN MICHIGAN! HELLO FRIENDS, TROOPER JEREMY WAS RECOVERED AT D & G EQUIPMENT AT 710 N. CEDAR ST. IN MASON YESTERDAY. D & G SALES STAFF. MASON STORE.

6/16/03. LARGE BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN MASON, MICHIGAN! To Balloon Troopers Page: We are a Cub Scout Day Camp operating out of Camp Kiwanis in Mason, Michigan. Our Cubs, approximately 130 of them, have prepared their balloon troopers for a Tuesday, June 17th launch. What do we need to do in order to "retrieve" any information that may come in about our troopers? If someone finds our troopers, do they just email you as I am doing? Do you then add it to the Sitrep page? Please let me know what we are to do next in order to retrieve any messages about our troopers. What a great activity this has been! Thank you. Marjorie Findlay, Program Director, Chief Okemos Council, Boy Scouts of America, Camp Kiwanis Day Camp, Mason, Michigan.

5/28/03. BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN OHIO! Dear Sirs; A Balloon Trooper was recovered by Norman Detweiler, 10 years old, in the woods off of Cox Rd. in Windsor, Ohio. It was found on May 28, 2003. The Trooper's name is Bobby and was launched by Joey on 4/15/03. Looks like the location was 341- (?). It is hard to read. Norman is Amish and we are friends of his aunt and we are e-mailing you from our computer since they don't have one. Thank-you. Norman had fun. Ardis Krill. PS-if you have and e-mail for Norman, please use my address and I will give it to his aunt to give to him. Thanks.

5/4/03. LARGE BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN CANADA! Hi again From Medicine Hat Alberta! I am writing to inform you that we are going to have another Trooper Launch May 4th. 2003. We are hoping to Launch 100 again this year. There will be TV and News Paper Coverage During our Launch. I will let you know how it went. Unfortunately all of our 2002 Troopers are still missing in action. Wanda.

11/16/02. BALLOON TROOPER FROM MO RECOVERED IN GEORGIA!! This outstanding SITREP has just come in from friendly Ground Allies in Georgia: From: "Diana Norris" To: paratoys@yahoo.com Subject: Re: Cub scout pack 50 @ mtn. Grove , MO-missing in action (SITREP) Date: Sat, 16 Nov 2002. "Dear Capain Bob s/n 232, I found the Balloon Trooper you launched 9/16/02. My name is Diana Norris and I already sent you a message via [email]. I did not get a message back so my concern was that you did not find out how well your aerial mission is going. I live in Dallas Georgia we are located about thirty minutes outside of Atlanta, Georgia. In my last email I promised that my son would relaunch your balloon. [However] A friend and neighbor who was a vietnam vet has it in his yard and wants to be a friendly ground trooper. We have one small problem - he was a pilot in Vietnam and still FLYS COMMERCIAL PLANES today. He flies cargo all around the world and he had to leave and so your info went to work with him. His name is Captain Pete. He will be in Singapore this week and he will send your high altitude aerial mission balloon while he is there. We wanted you to know how much we have all enjoyed this surprise from the sky and please who ever gets this message PLEASE PLEASE let the Scout leader be aware since the odds of someone being able to speak English or write back are slim [in Singapore]- The wonderful Captain Pete will mail a mission complete to his buddy Captain Bob via (Cub Scout Pack 50 of Mtn. Grove to Mtn. Grove Elementary School Mtn. Grove, mo 65711) of course it will be stamped from out of the United States. Two vets have seen and been a part of this wonderful mission and have been affected in positive ways that you may never understand. YOU HAVE MY EMAIL INFO FEEL FREE TO RESPOND. THANK YOU AND WISHING YOU BLUE SKIES AND SOFT LANDINGS. DON'T FORGET TO TELL SCOUT LEADER SO HE CAN INFORM THE SCHOOL THAT HIS TROOP WILL BE RECIEVING A LETTER FROM SINGAPORE, GOD BLESS !!!!!!!! DIANA NORRIS.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------11/2/02. CANADIAN MEDICINE HAT JR. FOREST WARDENS PERFORM LARGEST BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH ON RECORD (AND GET THE FIRST KNOWN BALLOON TROOPER "PRESS COVERAGE!") This outstanding Launch SITREP just in: "Hi From Medicine Hat! The Medicine Hat Junior Forest Wardens Hat launched close to 100 Troopers Sept.8th. We had a Blast, it was too a bad we were all busy getting the troopers ready and forgot to take pictures.. we do have a picture from the news paper to send you... We set up tents to store our troopers in while they waited to be launched. We had a Mess tent, First Aid tent, latrine, Officers tent, and a biff tent.. The whole set up looked pretty cool would have been nice to have pictures...I am sending you a newspaper picture and the article." (NOTE: The great Med Hat Launch news article can be read in full by following the link at the bottom of this page!)------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1O/15/02: FIRST KNOWN AUSTRALIAN BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH!! We welcome our new Australian Balloon Troopers to the Unit! The following (unedited) Launch SITREP just in: "Tuesday October 15, 2002: Comments: At 1600 hrs today, perhaps Australia's first Balloon Trooper, Major Oz, was launched. Volunteering from a pack, oops, squad of 20 for this first mission, Major Oz send he was on a mission to stick it to Osama Bin Liner (:-) We look forward to hearing from Major Oz."---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9/25/02: CUB SCOUT PACK 50 OF MOUNTAIN GROVE, MO, SENDS OUTSTANDING LAUNCH SITREP ABOUT BALLOON TROOPER MISSION CONDUCTED ON 9/16/02! "From: "Templeton". To: paratoys@yahoo.com. Subject: Cub Scout Misson Launch Mtn Grove MO. Date: Wed, 25 Sep 2002. From: Cub Scout Pack 50 of Mountain Grove, MO. To: All Local Citizens. Subj: SITREP - Operation Reach Out. Date/Time: Approximately 1900, 2002 16 Sept. Location: Elementary Airfield, Camp Grove. Mission Details: 1.) The Chief Commander briefed all present on the dangers and risks of HAM (High Altitude Missions) missions, however, without hesitation 23 courageous personnel volunteered. 2.) Upon receiving all mission-essential equipment, the Balloon Troopers were paired with their young commanders, who prepared them for departure. These youthful commanders displayed respect and support for their men as they stood by their troopers’ sides through lift-off. 3.) Despite unfavorable weather conditions (high-humidity & overcast skies), lift-off was a success. Initially, a few of the troopers' equipment failed on take off but with quick thinking on the part of Command Headquarters, the troopers received extra help which propelled them along. Additionally, although one trooper was viciously attacked by birds, he bravely repel the assault and continued on his mission. 4.) As of today, allies reported that two Balloon Troopers (Lt. Randy Scout and General Donald Wilson) were recovered 1 mile due west of the Elementary Airfield, Camp Grove and one Balloon Trooper (Major Matt Dillon) was recovered in Northern Kansas City, MO. All others are still listed as Missing in Action. 5) With Allie ground support, Major Matt Dillon’s equipment has been replaced after recovery and he now continues his mission toward Des Moines, IA. END REPORT." BTHQC NOTE: A big thanks to the launch commanders of Cub Scout Pack 50! It is quite an event to have even one Balloon Trooper Recovered (and reported) during a HAM Mission - but to have THREE Troopers from the same Launch already Recovered and Reported by Ground Allies is quite amazing indeed! Balloon Trooper Maj. Matt Dillon, is being re-launched by Ground Allies after already covering roughly 200 miles during his initial Mission! He is the first known Balloon Trooper reported to be continuing his Mission via Re-Launch by Ground Allies! We wish him luck on his continuing Mission. All of Cub Scout Pack 50's Balloon Troopers were clearly well handled by their fine commanders who obviously made excellent Mission Papers for their Troopers. Good Mission Papers are vital to allowing Recovery Reports to be made by friendly Ground Allies! Well done to all involved in the "Operation Reach Out" Mission and Recoveries!--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9/17/02: TWO OF CUB SCOUT PACK 50'S BALLOON TROOPERS RECOVERED BY GROUND ALLIES! This excellent SITREP just in from From: "Wanda & Gene": "To: paratoys@yahoo.com. Subject: Fw: Recovered. Date: Mon, 16 Sep 2002. Subject: Recovered. Hello Friends, we just recovered Gen. Donald Wilson in our back yard at 7:55 pm September 16, 2002 he also had a friend with him a Lt. Randy Scout, both traveled about one mile due west from the Mtn. Grove Elementary School." END FIRST SITREP. START SECOND SITREP: "Balloon Trooper Headquarters Command, In response to your letter (requesting full details of the Recovery) we recovered General Wilson and Lt. Scout in the grass in our back yard. If they started at the Mountain Grove Missouri Elementery School it is about one mile due east of our place, they had to come over several trees, fully inflated. Only wished my husband had taken a video of them. There was four (4) balloon twisted together, but only two had a message attatched. The balloons were in perfect condition. Upon the recovery of them I called the Mountain Grove Boy Scout leader, talked with his wife and she didn't know anything about the mission. Best of luck, Wanda P." END SECOND SITREP. BTHQC NOTE: Ground Ally Wanda sent us a transcription of the Mission Paper found with the Troopers. Part of this Mission Paper stated that the Troopers had in fact been Launched by CUB SCOUT PACK 50, OF MOUNTAIN GROVE, MO, AT THE MNT. GROVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL." See above Launch SITREP for a full Report of their Mission Launch. Many Thanks to our fine new Ground Allies, Wanda and Gene, for their Excellent Recovery and detailed SITREPs!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------SECOND BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH FROM EVENING SHADE, MO! This SITREP just in: Subject: Balloon Trooper Launch. Date: Fri, 19 Jul 2002. "BTHQ Command: A four man Balloon Trooper R&S team was launched from Evening Shade Missouri on 18 July 02 at 1700 hrs. Their mission was to locate and link up with the six missing troopers launched on 15 July, and then conduct follow on operations. After launch the troopers began flying N/NE (towards St. Louis). There were no malfunctions, and the troopers were tracked until they were out of sight. Launch Masters are listed below along with troopers SNL's: Adam Rodts launched SGT Zirenski SN 246810121 MOS 11H. Lauren Rodts launched PVT Lexus SN 820380602 MOS 11B. Courtney Ray launched PVT Hunter SN 465455571 MOS 11C. Brentney Miller launched PVT Morgan SN 246846545 MOS 11B. Enclosed is photo of original launch. V/R SFC Rodts." All troopers from this launch currently Missing In Action.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BIRTHDAY BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN MISSOURI! This SITREP just in from Evening Shade, MO. It is an ideal example of how a Launch SITREP should look in every regard. Photo of this excellent launch is posted above. "Sir, At 1100hrs today, 15 July 2002 we launched six Balloon Troopers from Evening Shade, Missouri as part of my daughter Laurens' birthday celebration. The jumpmasters and troopers are listed below:> Shane Miller launched SPC Austin SN 135790463> Adam Rodts launched CPT A.J. SN 465452577> Daulton Ray launched W04 Boss SN 13579064> Courtney Ray launched Pvt Rodts SN 038208078> Lauren Rodts launched PV2 Spirit SN 809289689> Brentney Miller launched PV2 Grandma SN 820608026> There were no malfunctions, and all troopers were tracked until they were out of sight. Another launch is scheduled for this coming weekend. Pre-launch photo is enclosed below. v/r SFC Rodts" The BTHQ Command wishes Lauren a very Happy Birthday, and all her Troopers a safe and successful Mission! All troopers currently Missing In Action.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------TEN BALLOON TROOPERS LAUNCHED ON INDEPENDENCE DAY! In honor of the Declaration Of Independence, 10 Troopers bearing the names of some of the men who signed that famous document (all early American Heroes!) were launched in Pasadena, CA on July 4th, 2002. The Troopers were named Read, Rodney, Mckean, Clymer, Franklin, Morris, Morton, Rush, Ross and Smith. All had ranks of Sergeant or Captain. All Troopers are currently Missing In Action.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FAMILY REUNION BALLOON TROOPER LAUNCH IN UPSTATE NEW YORK! On June 30th, 2002, about a dozen Balloon Troopers were launched from Pittsford NY during a family reunion. The reunion was attended by relatives of the common blood lines of Sinclair, Elliott and Burgess families. It was a fantastic event and fun for all. Photo of launch above! Capt. Mustard was launched by Mike, Capt. Camillus by Peg, Col. John by John, Patrick sent up Sgt. Green, Kyle sent up Sgt. Hunter, Lori sent Sgt. Pepper and Casey sent up Sgt. Casey. Unfortunately, the names of all other BT's launched that day were not documented. All Troopers are currently Missing In Action.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BALLOON TROOPER RECOVERED IN CANADA! The Balloon Trooper HQ Command just received this SITREP from Ground Allies in Canada. Date: Sun, 30 Jun 2002. Marlene Klingbyle wrote: "Subject: BALLOON TROOPER. Hi, we received your message. It says "you are special and god loves and cares for you." It is from Taylor. We live in Bothwell Ont. THANK YOU TAYLOR"-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------There is no information at this time about where and when Taylor launched his Balloon Trooper, but he has been found and is in good condition.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ NEWSFLASH! FIRST KNOWN TEXAS BALLOON TROOPERS LAUNCHED ON MAY 30, 2002! Following SITREP information just in from Austin Texas: "This is a message to BTHQ command. (6) Balloon Troopers were launched today, 30 May 2002, from an apartment complex Austin, TX: (see photos attached) Commando SID, in patriotic red latex, by Sgt. Sean, age 9; Chuck the Mighty Duck, in bright blue latex, by Brig. General Brad, age 12; Sweet Sabrina, dressed in pink latex, by Shana, age 34; My Irish Green Gemini by Erin, age 1; General Grace, donning the #1, by Katherine, age 1; and Paratrooper Dahlgren, in naval blue latex, on behalf of Lt. Chuck (USN). While most troopers were armed, none are considered dangerous. Paratrooper Dahlgren carried communications equipment with him; however, we have yet to receive a call for help. Please list these individuals as now Missing In Action. All troopers carried their Mission Papers taped between their legs, some in plastic bags for protection. All troopers also "raised" the American flag with them. Commando SID received the most lift and is perceived to have the highest opportunity for success on his mission. Other troopers are feared lost in a (possibly hostile) mobil home park in a scrub forest. Poolside views were enjoyed by all troopers upon liftoff. No enemy fire, or even aggressive birds, were reported. Stay tuned to Channel 8 cable news for updates from Camp Mabry in Austin. Signed, The Mother of the Austin Launch Command" (End of SITREP.) We here at BTHQ Command wish these brave Texas Balloon Troopers a safe and successful Mission! Until we here any news from Ground Allies, these fine Texas Troopers will remain listed as Missing In Action. Please see the great Mission Photos above of the Texas Launch Commanders and their brave Balloon Troopers!------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------NEWSFLASH! BALLOON TROOPER “CAPTAIN BOUGHMAN” BECOMES THE FIRST BALLOON TROOPER OFFICIALLY RECOVERED BY GROUND ALLIES! A truly historic and very exciting event for the Balloon Trooper Unit occurred on April 10, 2002. For the very first time since the Balloon Trooper Unit was formed (almost exactly a year ago), a brave Balloon Trooper has been Recovered after being launched in Mesa, Arizona! This Balloon Trooper was named “CAPTAIN BOUGHMAN” and was launched in Mesa according to his Mission Paper but we currently have NO INFORMATION ABOUT WHO LAUNCHED HIM! IF YOU LAUNCHED “CAPTAIN BOUGHMAN” PLEASE CONTACT BALLOON TROOPER HEADQUARTERS BECAUSE WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR LAUNCH STORY! “CAPTAIN BOUGHMAN” was Recovered, while grounded in a parking lot, by Mr. Judd Sopoci. This was a very fortunate thing for Captain Boughman because Judd turned out to be an outstanding example of what all Ground Allies should be! Judd read Captain Boughman’s attached Mission Paper and followed all Recovery Instructions quickly and perfectly. Judd provided Trooper Boughman with Safe Shelter, he quickly sent a timely SITREP by email to Balloon Trooper Headquarters Command, then he made plans to Relaunch Captain Boughman with a fresh Helium Balloon so he could carry on with his High Altitude Aerial Mission. It was an absolutely ideal Recovery in every way. Prior to Relaunching Captain Boughman, it was decided by Balloon Trooper Headquarters Command and Judd that it would be best to transfer Captain Boughman to Headquarters Command for a proper Recovery Ceremony. Trooper Boughman will receive Honors for his bravery in action, he’ll have a digital photo session, and he’ll accept his historic place on the Balloon Trooper web site as our First Recovered Balloon Trooper! Trooper Boughman is currently in transit to BTHQ Command. PHOTOS OF CAPTAIN BOUGHMAN WILL BE POSTED SOON! Please visit our Guestbook to read Judd Sopoci’s original RECOVERY SITREP (email) about finding Captain Boughman. Read an Excerpt below from the “Balloon Trooper Ground Allies Certificate of Honor” which was awarded to Judd Sopoci for his fine Recovery of Captain Boughman: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------THIS EXCERPT FROM (THE VERY FIRST) GROUND ALLIES CERTIFICATE OF HONOR for Judd Sopoci: “ On or about Wednesday April 10, 2002, Mr. Judd Sopoci recovered a grounded Balloon Trooper, CAPTAIN BOUGHMAN, in a parking lot in Mesa, Arizona. Captain Boughman was found uninjured, with his Mission Paper intact, and with the tattered remnants of his purple High Altitude Aerial Mission (HAM) Balloon still tied to the shroud line. By reading Trooper Boughman’s Mission Paper Instructions carefully and by skillfully following proper Recovery Procedures without hesitation, Mr. Sopoci provided Trooper Boughman with immediate Safe Shelter among Ground Allies, then emailed a timely Situation Report (SITREP) to Balloon Trooper Headquarters Command detailing Trooper Boughman’s Recovery, then made plans to Relaunch Trooper Boughman with a new HAM Balloon. Headquarters Command responded to Mr. Sopoci’s SITREP with orders requesting the immediate transfer of Trooper Boughman to the Balloon Trooper Headquarters Command in order to properly honor Trooper Boughman as our VERY FIRST RECOVERED BALLOON TROOPER! Mr. Sopoci’s actions reflect great credit upon all Balloon Trooper Ground Allies and we thank him for his honorable efforts and actions.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We hope many more brave Balloon Troopers will soon have the good fortune to be Recovered by outstanding Ground Allies like Judd Sopoci. Meanwhile, see below for a current Roster of all (Known) Balloon Troopers who have engaged in High Altitude Aerial (HAM) Missions and are currently listed as MISSING IN ACTION (MIA) until Recovered:--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ROSTER OF BALLOON TROOPERS CURRENTLY MISSING IN ACTION DURING THEIR HIGH ALTITUDE AERIAL MISSIONS: The First Balloon Trooper ever Launched was an UNNAMED BALLOON TROOPER with no Serial Number. He was launched by James and Reese Elliott on April 16th, 2001 in Pasadena, California. All other Balloon Troopers had their own unique Identity & Serial Number. CAPTAIN JOHN BLACK, Serial Number 100, launched by James and Reese Elliott on April 17th, 2001. SERGEANT DALE COODER, Serial Number 101, launched by James and Reese Elliott on April 17th, 2001. SERGEANT ROBERT THOMAS, Serial Number 102, launched by James and Reese Elliott on April 18th, 2001. Team Launch STONE/LOGAN: CAPTAIN MICHAEL STONE, Serial Number 103 (Paraballoon) & CAPTAIN FRANK LOGAN, Serial Number 104 (Launch Balloon), launched by James & Reese on April 19, 2001. Team Launch TOMPKINS/WHITE: SERGEANT PHIL TOMPKINS, Serial Number 105 (Paraballoon), SERGEANT LARRY WHITE, Serial Number 106 (Launch Balloon), launched by James & Reese Elliott on April 19, 2001. SERGEANT JACK HOLLIS, Serial Number 107, launched by James & Reese Elliott on April 19, 2001. SERGEANT DEAN HOFFMAN, Serial Number 108, launched by James & Reese Elliott on April 19, 2001.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **NEWSFLASH: THE FIRST KNOWN CANADIAN BALLOON TROOPERS ENGAGE IN VERY FIRST MASS LAUNCH MISSION! Approx 31 Troopers of the First Canadian Balloon Trooper Unit were launched on June 30, 2001 at Union Bay, British Columbia, during the McKay Family Reunion - an ideal event for Balloon Trooper fun! The Launch was a huge success, bringing all activity in the park to a halt to watch the beautiful Mass Launch according to Mission Commander Lynnel. The Names/Ranks/Serial Numbers of 21 of the Canadian Troopers were documented (as well as the names of the Launch Masters who sent them up!): Matteo K. sent up: Captain George Ser# 4498. Sam M: Private Purple Ser # 4445. Cassidy M: Captain Stub Ser#6302001. Jocelyn M: Sgt Elliot Popper Ser# 335644. Mike S: Sgt Spitfire Ser#19876. AJ M: Capt. Flyjack Ser#216. Kelsie M: Prvt Poopertrooper Ser#9489. Trevor L: Captain Pop Ser#22. Cameron M: Capt Grouch Ser#42. Kelsey M: Pvt Stoopertrooper Ser#2240. Aiden A: Pvt Balloon Ser#14. Gabrielle D: Sgt Big-guy Ser#2699. Sara H: Prvt Jim Ser#00076243. Brandon H: SK8R Ser#8. Richard S: Pvt Peabody Ser#15. Nicholas L: General Gumboot Ser#0008. Thomas M: Pvt Adrian Ser#128913. Kyle: Commander-8 Ser#8. Andrew R: Camacazie Ser#11950. Jesse M: Pvt Paratrooper Ser#911. Alex H: General Idunno Ser#4. All Canadian Troopers from this Mass Launch remain listed as MIA. We wish them great luck and fast Recovery by Ground Allies! We have enjoyed the news about these brave new Canadian Balloon Troopers and we welcome them as our first International Counterparts! Thanks to Commander Lynnel for sending in news of the Launch! PHOTO CREDIT: Thanks to Lynnel and Family for the fine photos of the Canadian Mass launch. These are the first known photos of a BT Mission in progress. Outstanding! They can be seen above here on the BT SITREP Page. Notice the close up shot of an airborne Balloon Trooper in action! Fine camera work folks!

Other earlier Launches by James & Reese are on file in the Balloon Trooper Archive at BTHQ.

• RETURN TO BALLOON TROOPERS! HOMEPAGE
• See Photo and Newspaper Article about Mass BT Launch in 2003 by Jr. Forest Wardens in Medicine Hat Canada!
• Read newspaper article about the Canadian Medicine Hat Balloon Trooper Mass Launch in 2002!
• SEE THE BALLOON TROOPER TEST PILOT SQUAD IN ACTION!
• SEE PHOTOS AND READ THE AMAZING TRUE STORY OF A REAL LIFE BALLOON PARATROOPER NAMED CAPTAIN JOE KITTINGER! (Captain Joe launched himself in a huge helium balloon and went up to 102,800 feet in the sky, then leaped out! He made the longest, highest skydive parachute jump ever recorded - almost 20 miles high!)