Wallace Blue Book Listing # 2
Chronology of Listings 1968 to 1980
Mike Walfoort A1C - Tour of duty January 1968 to February 1969
i arrived at wallace right out of radar training at Keesler AFB, Mississippi .also from my class was gene norman , ron wilson, dave misiak and mac allen barnes. i enjoyed reading mike coopers account of wallace. mike , (coop) was our recorder of events at wallace. drone launches and the like. we always enjoyed watching his 8mm movies. of all the things i remember , i recall a beutiful location that i was probably too young to appreciate. however , upon my return to state side duty, i realised how good we had it.
i recall all the crazy nicknames we had , i was called frootloop because of the double o's in my last name . ther were many others . jr barnes , chickenman , murph , papa kools , border patrol , just to mention a few. i spent most of my free time away from the radar scope on alpha crew at the wonderful beach or at the harbo lights canteen . i made quite a few trips to john hay in baguio city for a weekend retreat . baguio reminded me of my home in minnesota . and they had a great marketplace colonel kalessa was our commander , sgt sweat was our first shirt and tsgt kilgore was our crew chief on alpha crew.
I'll never forget the "bubble checks" and the card games in mid shift. many things were happening in the world then , vietnam , the martin luther king and robert kennedy assasination. we also lost a crew member over ther , gary gus , in an auto accident in downtown san fernando. after wallace , i was stationed at Mt Laguna AFS in california and finished my hitch at Luke AFB in Phoenix AZ. i returned to Minnesota after the service and raised a family . four kids and now eight grandkids. it was a pleasant surprise to find this website and all the memories. mailto:mikewalfoort@msn.com
Earl Honeycutt SGT Tour of duty 1969 - 1970
Assigned to Detachment 2, 14th Communications Squadron as a radio repairman. Det 2 took over for Raytheon contractors and ran the Over-the-Horizon radar transmitter system. The Operations building later became the dispensary and was located across the road from the area later occupied by the drones. I remember arriving by helicopter from Clark and being met by our commander, Capt. Alex Valchuk, who was attired in a pith helmet and 1505 shorts! Knew right then, even though I spent 1967-68 at Mactan AB in Cebu, that WAS would be different. Det 2 started as a small cadre of 5 people and by August of 1969, we had approximately 30 men assigned to the detachment. Wallace was a great tour that allowed me to grow personally.
There was plenty of time to read, think, recreate in the WASCOM and downtown at the Harbor Lights, Cherry Blossom, Playboy Club and D'Key. We also spent time at Bali Hai and Cresta Ola. One night about midnight my date from the Harbor Lights and I were asked nicely, back by the pistol in the guard's hand, to leave the swimming pool at Cresta Ola. Still remember the shock of learning of the civilian tech rep being shot and killed in Bauang in January of 1970. The blue bus ran regulary to John Hay for medical, laundry, and R&R purposes, so it was easy to enjoy time away from the rigors of the job in the "City of the Pines." Like others at Wallace, time was spent swimming, looking for shells, playing softball, and hanging out at the WASCOM.
I have kept in touch with two of my best friends at WAS: Pat Brown and Wayne "Reed" Ledwig and have attempted to contact others through ads in the AF Times and AF Magazine--all to no avail. It would be great to hear from Bob Rhodes, Tim Phillips, Jerry Bargo, Butch Carroll, Howard Wilson, Tiny Harrington, Dan Crosley, and David Cramer. My tour at Wallace, and the friendships that were made there, had a very positive effect on me and I ended up spending 30+ years in the Air Force/Air Force Reserve, retiring on January 1, 1998 as a Reserve Colonel. I last visited Poro Point in May 2000 and hope to return soon. I am a professor of marketing and international business at Elon University in North Carolina and regularly take students to the Philippines, primarily the University of the Philippines at Diliman and University of San Carlos in Cebu City, for cross-cultural visits. In many ways the Philippines remains the same after all these years! Should any of my friends or acquaintances from Wallace want to contact me they can do so at E-mail: ehoneycutt@elon.edu
Robert Echement SGT - I was stationed at Wallace during Dec 1968 - Jan 1971
I worked in Radar Ops. We were kings then, the place was a spoiler and there will never be another place or time like that again, truly magic. I wish I could recall the names of the guys better but I seem to remember a Humbolt, Dzamko, JB Baxter was my boss, Bill Dennis (because he was stationed with me at Fortuna AS North Dakota. I quit the Air Force on account of that. I would have reenlisted for 130 years if they would have left me there but to send me to North Dakota in January from Wallace was more than I could handle. It really broke my heart having to leave that place. thebob@mobis.com I live in Grand Bay, Alabama now that I'm retired.
Pat Brown SGT Served at Wallace AS, Rep Of Phil from AUG 69-SEP 70.
Material Control Specialist, DET 2 14TH Comm SQ. Retired from Mil E-7 after desert storm (142FA 7TH CORPS). "WALLA ROCK" Was the most fun I ever had. I loved the Philippine people and the days were like the colors of the rainbow. Roomies, "ear" Honeycutt, "Reed" Ledwig & Daniel Lee Crosley. mailto: PLBrown@ShelterInsurance.com
1LT Chuck Barrs 1970 - 1971 Wallace Air Station Weapons Controller
I was stationed at Clark AB in 1970 and sent “remote” to Wallace AS later in the year. What did I know about “remote” as a 21-year-old weapons controller? Was it dangerous? Little did I know that the only danger at Wallace was that of getting run down by a herd of goats early in the am! When I first reported to Wallace, me and another second balloon were told that we had to take on an “additional duty” to our primary WC assignment. Turns out those duties were USO coordinator and mortuary officer. Well since my counterpart’s last name was “Coffin”, he was assigned the mortuary officer’s duty (no lie)! I guess that initial experience set the tone for things to come at Wallace.
Everything from Lt. Lou Steidl’s antics during Christmas of 1970 when after decorating the tree outside the BOQ with toilet paper he fell to the ground and broke his ankle, to that difficult journey to the beach in the afternoon for some snorkeling! I do remember one harrowing event however, which involved talking a ride out on the drone recovery boat in inclement fall monsoon weather. I thought, hey, I grew up on Cape Cod and was a sailor, no problem. Well after watching those Filipinos dancing around that pitching deck for 1 peso ($1) a day, I promptly turned green and became seasick the likes of which still makes me shudder. Yes, perfect weather and sunsets and a great bunch of guys (my tech would always acknowledge me with left-handed salutes!), what wasn’t there to like --- best years of my life. I hope to visit that part of the world again someday soon.
mailto:csbarrs@appliedmetrix.com
David Graves SGT - Security Police - 1970 -1971
Super web site! I was at Wallace 1970-71 in the security police. I kick myself for not extending for 30 years at Wallace. We had a super time on our island vacation / tour of duty.
I had the pleasure of reuniting with my security police buddy Dave Padula, alias "Pud" during his Easter 2004 visit to Arizona. We both flew in on the C-47 in Nov. 1970. The things I remember best from Wallace are the great friends,the WASCOM membership nights, trips to Baguio, getting stuck in Tarlac very late one night, getting robbed at gunpoint downtown during a Jeepney ride, incredible parties with the local chief of police, the Poro Point bars and restaurants,two typhoons where we had to chain the gate shack to a forklift so the airman on duty didn't get blown over the cliff,and a New Year's Eve party that looked like something out of a movie.
Some of the midnight shifts were exciting as we chased the scrap metal scavengers around. Some of the best times were simply hanging out on the beach, and watching the sunsets. Some of the other security police there at the time were Larry Carpenter, Ray Miller, Bob Clayton, Pete Nichols; alias "Fathead", Don Ready, Vito Vacirca, Ed McCall, and Jerry Snook. Leonard Murray was the base commander. I remember Walter Robinson the supply sgt. Ski ran WASCOM with Tony and the Tropical Bugs. Thanks again for a super web site. I will continue to search for other Wallace vets. Mailto: GravesD@flowingwells.k12.az.us
Bob Bailey
- Rank A1C then Sgt just before I left. Radar Operator - May 1971 to June
1972
I have Very fond memories of that experience. It was my first USAF assignment
out of tech school arriving at the tender age of 18. Names of people that
come to mind- SSgt Fred Pike, SSgt Pete Nickols, A1C Mike Mooers, A1C Neil
Roberts, A1C Bob Fulmer, SSgt Bob Burnham, Sgt Mike Brady, Capt VanSickle,
Sgt "Holly" Hollingsworth, A1C Larry "Spoon" Durham, A1C
John Hoose, SSgt Ron Beale, TSgt Fred Snyder, TSgt Craddock, and on and on.
Some many people that I can't remember their names. It makes me sad that it's
all gone now and I can't go back. I'd love to hear from anyone stationed there.
mailto: bobb02@comcast.net
Nicolas Lempesis A/1C -Assigned 1971-1972 Duty Section OPS
I want to congratulate you for the work you have done with this website. Despite my tour at Wallace, I have always had a deep seated love for the Philippines and the people of that nation. I studied the history of that nation before going to Clark in 1969 and found it to be fascinating, to say the least. I had served a previous tour at Clark and spent all my time at Wallace attempting to get transferred to Clark. I became active in airmen politics, had the base commander exposed for fronting for some local pimps off base, had the base commander investigated for failing to have the bowling alley built with funds that were allocated...but I did enjoy most of my time there. I was there when the steps were built down to the beach, when Martial law was declared by Marcos...After that that tour I went to law school and I am now retired from that field of endeavor. Mailto: fffbeech60@yahoo.com
Ron Dzuba SSGT. NCOIC of MCC/WLC 1971 - 1972
I worked for SMS Larry Wolfe as NCOIC of MCC/ WLC and have fond memories of the tired tigers. Col.Murray was CC and denied my extension. I found out from the 1st Sgt. The CC didn’t like the company I kept. Seems what irked him was when MSgt Oshiro got in some trouble in town and I brought the local judge to the WASCOM. The CC,,judge and I sat in the club drinking a beer discussing what kind of punishment Sgt Oshiro should get for roughing up Sweet Pea. A small fine was decided upon.
I also showed up at the local navy station when President Marcos visited the area. The CC,1st Sgt, Admin Officer, and Ski (the WASCOM manager) was the official delegation to the visit and here was this lowly SSgt invited by his local friends. I had formed a friendship with some local politicians by supplying the booze for their parties. I sold it for what I paid for it-the only stipulation was that I be at the function where the booze was drunk. Needless to say I was well connected. However I was an MA at the WASCOM and remember Congressman Ortega pulling up to the WASCOM and filling his car trunk with booze so I thought if the rules were to be bent by the powers to be why not me.
I have many stories that will never be forgotten and will always remember Wallace as the Paradise of the Pacific. Does anyone remember lining up for B-12 shots from Doc.Shelledy? With a B-12 shot 3 times a week-you were no longer a Tired Tiger. When I left the locals threw a party for me at the Navy Base and I invited the CC to my party of 150-200 locals. How sweet it was. If any Tired Tigers are out there-
Mailto:rdzuba@charter.net
James Goodman SSGT. Radar OPS (2) tours 1971 - 72 and 1975 - 76
I left a piece of my heart there at Wallace ......i learned to love the people of the philippines and those i shared the experience with. i took numberous pics of the station, parties, trips around the PI. i havent been able to visit any of the reunions but would love to help setting one up. yeppers i have 100's of pictues but the memories will never leave me.
My experiences, so many...i can say that it was my awakening into being a man and my introduction to one of the most fantastic places and experiences i will ever have...rank: ssgt (then) & radar operations ..........from a early age i had a interest in photography, my dad was a pilot in the wwii and spent the later years of his service career working in the photography section here at wright patterson, so i got my interest in taking all the photo's i could while i was in the philippines. i was one of those crazy americans that loved to ride the local buses and taxi's allo over the phillipines .....yeppers..there is very little i didnt get to see durning my 2 tours. .....
This fall i will return there and i will be getting married..........wallace was much ..much more than just a assignment..it was my first contact with a culture from outside the states ......from watching a philippino lady giving birth to a child on a rice levy to the taste of san megiel beer .....saw more than my share of the local "Black Markets" .......paid many a bar fine ......the trade in cigarettes & brandy .....enjoyed listening to " zeplin/stair waay to heaven" ...and "deep purple/smoke on the water" .........loved to play tennis with the PAF downtown and buy candy for the kids ............yeppers, will be glad to share some of the moments and pics of the time .........well time to get back to playing pokerstars ...i enjoyed playing "Russian poker & Pairs/Pairs with the local ladies downtown ........the "Bay View" hotel had the best view accross the bay from san fernando ....room 12 had the best A/C other than the "Nancy " theater ......and we havent even started talking about Baguio. mailto: james2357@sbcglobal.net
Barry O'Toole SGT. Det 2 14th Comm Sqd. May 72-April 73 - Radio Maintenance section
My memories of Wallace AS are very sketchy but I do remember the trips to Baguio and the USO shows at the club. God were those awful. I recall the medics having a strange sense of humor and trying to inoculate the girls who were picking up pesos off the tops of beer bottles without using their hands.
I remember the movies, the miniature golf course which I helped lay out and the SCUBA diving club. I remember the library and the 65 cent haircuts and the tailor shop. It did have one of the best chow halls I ever ate at. I didn't take any pictures of the place as I was having too much fun drinking and working.
If anyone has any photos they would be willing to copy for me, I would gladly pay them for their effort. I remember the VOA station and the havoc that their signal caused our transmitters. And finally I remember the site of the drones taking off across the bay. I just wish I had the photos as the memories are getting foggier as time goes on. If any one remembers me or my room mate "Mike" from Canoga Park CA who got killed at the radio site shortly after I left in 73, please e-mail me at botoole822@aol.com
Paul Wallace A/1C Tours Dec 69 - Jan71 and July 72 - Jan 1976
Arrived at wallace Dec./69 left Jan./71, went to fortuna afs ND(with 2 other guys off same crew Miller,and Echement) came back in jul/aug/71 on leave married my wife flora(31yearsnow)went back to fortuna returned to walla rock jul./72 wife flora and i had three daus.many, many friends and good times (at my place) i left in jan./76 my family followed in oct./76... we have been in texas, maine, germany, australia and we have retired in tucson.az I drove a city bus for 13 years and flora has worked for pizza hut for 14 now i am going to college and uncle sam is glad to pay for it.(of our last 5 assignments someone we had a drink with at the WASCOM was at 4 of the five. paul&flora wallace) Mail to: kyboypigirl@cox.net
Ed McCall Tour date: Sept 1970 until October 1971
I arrived there from Barksdale AFB as a Security Police Sergeant. When I received the orders for WAS, no one on Barksdale seemed to know anything about the place. I remember one NCO in our SP squadron that DID know about the base and the area. He kept telling me it was a resort area and beautiful. What an understatement. Sun rise over the mountains. Sun set over the South China Sea. Stunning. Looking over the Blue Pages, I recognize names like Gene Fair, CJ and others. I also remember the good times in the WASCOM, the beach, town, riding to Baguio on the laundry bus and simply loving the base and the people there. edhmccall@earthlink.net
Klaus Hagel - SSGT. Tour of duty - August 1970 thru June 1971
The tour of duty certainly was great! I remember the F4 Phantoms, running the drone track, and getting them to do a fly-by at the cliff overlooking the beach! Wish I had more interest in camera's at the time? But I was young and just enjoying myself! I spent many days shopping at the Silver school at Baguio, and at the WASCOM when the artists brought their paintings in! Then there was always amateur night at the club, Sunday nights?
Not too many movies were available in 8mm, the the movie selection at the theather was pretty dismal! The bus runs on the laundry bus to John Hay were always a thrill, especially when an ore truck (Peterbuilt) came barreling down that narrow road towards you? Several weekends we would rent a cabin at the John Hay Golf course and shop all day, or play golf, and then drink beer all night, and of course play poker! The climate was great in the mountains, and life was good! We would joke about the many geodesic domes around the golf course at John Hay and located up by the restaurant, suggesting that they were CIA listening domes? They likely were? Flew up to John Hay once on a Gooney Bird, and still remember the pilot trying to stop the plane before it went off the cliff? Even more fun was the takeoff, as the plane rolls off the cliff and proceeds to lose altitude, before gaining enough speed to start climbing??? The chopper rides were always a kick?
Though Wednesday was steak day at the chow hall and all the chopper crews were always at Wallace for that! You could always get to Clark on Wednesday, after lunch that is! Still remember asking what the huge ditches were for when I arrived? Learned the answer to that, when the monsoon's came! Played pinochle every Sunday that I could and had a great time in the tournaments. Got an early out to go to school, and left there in June 1971. Got my BS in Math and my MBA because of the GI Bill, and have no regrets about my service time! The Wallace AS tour of duty was the best tour in my short military career! Getting ready to retire as a Computer geek, in the Pacific NorthWest. Climate here is much as it is in Baguio! Love your Website and will attend the renunion next year, so keep me informed! If there is anything else I can do, let me know?
KlausHagelkhagel@harbornet.com
Gene A. Fair SSgt Tour of duty Aug 1970 - Sept 1971
I was assigned to the 848th AC&W Security Police Squadron. I arrived in the Philippines and spent over a week at Clark Air Base until it was determined where I was supposed to be stationed. Eventually I was put on a helicopter and told I was going to Wallace Air Station, a remote base on the coast of Luzon Island. I remember after arriving at Wallace and being briefed that I was not permitted to tell anyone back home where I was stationed, and that in fact I had showed up for my assignment "late", which seemed to be the case as Wallace people got lost in the pipeline at Clark. My first room mate was on his way back to the "world" and just hated Wallace and told me I'd feel the same way in a few weeks, needless to say, before my tour of duty was up I attempted to extend and spend my last year in the Air Force at Wallace, but was turned down and later assigned to Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.
The thing I remember most about Wallace was the feeling that you were with "family", and Christopher Johnson (CJ) who I ran around with during my tour has proven to be one of the best friends I've ever had and sent me the address for this site. I also remember the countless nights at the WASCOM drinking San Miguel, laughing till your sides hurt and then trying to help each other back to the barracks so you could go to work in the morning. I remember the days and nights spent at the Harbor Lights, eating plates of fried rice, drinking and really enjoying ourselves and never thinking about going back to the "world", I mean we were in paradise and knew it.
There are a few people I have not forgotten, one is Mommy Thompson who repeatedly tried to teach me Mahjong, but did succeed in teaching me Russian Poker which I just loved to play, usually breaking even. I remember taking my last few quarters and dumping them into the slot machines hoping for a $75.00 jackpot till payday. Countless memories of great times with some of the best people I've ever known, memories that will last a life time even if the names and faces fade. To all I've known and met at Wallace Air Station, thanks for the memories and God Bless you all. genefair@adelphia.net
Randall (Randy) Wilkinson A1C - Tour of duty Aug 1971 to Sep 1972 - Det 2 14 Comm Sq.
I arrived fresh out of tech school from Keesler AFB Miss. I was a one striper! I did make A1C a short time later. I was assigned to Det 2 14 Comm Sq Orderly room. I was to replace a TSgt NCOIC Admin. Needless to say I don't think I was really wanted at the Det at the time. I remember when I arrived at Clark AB, I kept on trying to find out where Wallace was and how to get there, and since I had no sponsor, I made it to the "rock" the best way I could. Someone told me to jump on the chopper, so I grabbed my duffle and away I went. I remember the CO, Capt Zdilla. He was really cool and was patient with my lack of experience and knowledge of the administrative & personnel field. I have alot of good memories from Poro Point and am really glad I got to serve my country in such a beautiful place. .
Joel Parmenter, "Marty" Martinez, Crawford Jordan, Larry (Smitty) Smith, if any of you guys are still out there, I would like to hear from you, e-mail me. Mailto: randyflt219@Yahoo.com
Christopher L. Johnson (CJ / Opr 11): Sgt / Aug 70 - Dec 71, Det. 6, 1961 Comm Squadron.
Where have the years gone? I remember some names but more faces - my lifelong friend Gene, Cereg (Larry Cereghino - my roommate), Ray Ramon, Robert Bennage, Vito, Bloom, Pete Nichols, Taco, Rice, Joe Krokas, Ready, "Tex" Boler, Reggie Graves, Sgt. Brown, 'Doc' Shelledy, Capt. Doucette, Tsgt. Herrera, Doster, Ray Wilson, - my friends at Clark AB, Ken Collup, in particular, and Bob (?) at John Hay AB.
For me, the highlights were the off-duty times, especially the road trips - exploring the country and finding ourselves in all these new and interesting places/situations. Baguio City and John Hay were always on the agenda or so it seemed. Not to mention the nightly movies, playing softball, tennis, bowling, helicopter rides, golfing in the pouring rain, beaches, all night conversations and the USO shows. The local food was great - Tony and his band were terrific and Russian Poker is still my favorite card game. The friendships and camaraderie that existed is what made that time spent there and it's memories special. I hope the years have been kind and generous to each and everyone I knew there. God Bless. Email: pae165@aol.com
Lenny Fedukowski tour of duty 1971 - 72 - I ran the search radar tower AFSC 30352
I was extremely surprised to find all you guys that served at Wallace that felt about it the way I do, and I’m looking forward to contacting some of my friends who were at Wallace with me. I haven’t been back since ’72 & I guess Pinutubo ended most of it. I met my first wife in Poro Point ,she came from CEBU. That lasted 11 years .I married another Filipino [Angelita ] & we just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary . She is from Nueva Ecija [North of Manila ,3 hrs from Baguio ] .
I have lots of pictures of Wallace & Clark I’d love to share . Best tour I had in the Air Force. Great people, great food, private beach, easy duty, lots of beautiful women. mailto:ranger1@mybluelight.com
Richard Beach I was stationed at Wallace Sep 1971 through Nov 1972 Security Police
I married my wife Aurora (Elsa) while there. I also think of it as the best tour I had in the Air force. The nights at the WASCOM stacking up empties while listening to Tony and the band. I retired in 1990 as a MSgt. I was station at Clark from 1975 through 1977. I keep in touch with Sam Ward(another of your entries). Our wives are best friends. We ran into Dan Allen and his wife while stationed in Aviano Italy. I am also trying to locate some of the old sky cops from there. If anybody knows the location of James Dunn, Mike Reagan (I was stationed with him again at Vandenberg AFB 1975), Ready or the others please contact me. Also if anybody knows the whereabouts of Bob Bunner (drone program) or Pete Wallace I would really apprecaite hearing from them.. James Dunn was my best man and Bob is my youngest daughters godfather. My email address is NLVKID@MSN.COM.
Thomas "Jake" Jacobson, MSgt, USAF (Ret) - Tour of dutyOct 1971 to March 1973.
I came to the 848th AC&W Squadron as a Sgt and left as a SSgt. My original orders had me going to Clark AB (where I had been in 1969-70) but I was diverted to Wallace for reasons unknown. God must have been looking out for me...I was expecting a miserable assignment and found paradise. I have so many great memories of Wallace that I often dream of the place and wake up wishing I was back there.
My first view of Wallace (from the C-47 "gooneybird" that flew me in) was a beautiful peninsula surrounded by coral reefs and an aquamarine sea. Seeing this beauty made me optimistic...maybe this would be a good assignment after all. I wasn't disappointed. Duty at Wallace was easy, if not fun. As a Security Policeman, I felt like Sheriff Andy Taylor in Mayberry, except that Wallace was a whole lot more fun. I'll never forget all the good times at the WASCOM, the wilder times down at the Harbor Lights, and the trips we made up to Baguio when we were in the mood for cooler weather.
Once in a while I'd catch a chopper and visit Angeles City. Many thanks to the guys who ran the scuba club and taught me to dive. Swimming with the sharks over the reef north of the base is something I'll never forget. I had so many friends at Wallace! I still keep in touch with Norma Tesch, Rick Beach, Don Daniel (see above) and Craig McKay, who lives in South Dakota. I'd really like to know how to get in touch with Pete Nichols, Jim Dunn, Gil Kain, Don Ready, Jim Oliver, Guy Symosko, Frosty Nayes, and Mike Reagan. I ran into Ed (Doc) Bastion in 1982. He was no longer a medic, but was in charge of a basic training squadron at Lackland. I was at recruiting school and only spoke to him for a few minutes in the mess hall.
I'll never forget the fun times riding my 350 Honda on the beach in front of the resorts south of Wallace. There were miles of hard-packed sand from the outgoing tide, and any number of places to stop and get a cold San Miguel, listen to the jukebox for a while, then speed off down the beach again. What a life! If the USAF hadn't turned down my request for an extension, I'd still be there today (volcano or no volcano!).
I'm living in Eau Claire, WI these days. I retired in 1989 and due to several health issues am drawing 100% disability from the VA. I am still able to go deer hunting each fall and trap shoot at our Rod & Gun Club. I enjoy reading, playing around with the computer, and helping my daughter grow up into the kind of God-fearing, responsible, educated person I wish all young people could be. She has not let me down. Feel free to write to me at tomjac0850@charter.net.
James Craft SSgt assigned to Det 6, 1961st Administration - April 1972 - May 73
Wallace was truly one of my best assignments. I met and married my wife Demi there and we lived on First Block in Poro point. Did a lot of Scuba Diving with my friend Ray Grant who has since past on. Would love to hear from anyone assigned there during that time. Will be traveling back there in 2005. DrJcraft@Juno.com James Craft Airport Operations Supervisor PBIA (561)471-7416
Ross Jerry - Wallace Air Station Postmaster 1972 - 1973
It was a very enjoyable tour even though I was married at the time to my first wife. Actually Wallace was my second time in the PI with the first time being at Clark when I was barely 20 years old. As I review the comments in the blue book I recognized many names and many good memories started to come back. I will not get too lengthy but just wanted to say hello. I am currently retired from the USAF, working here at Osan AB, Korea. The good thing is I travel to Angeles City every 6 months and have on a couple of ocassions made the trip to La Union but was unable to access Wallace. The beach sure does not look like it used to.
Additional Notes: The beach is not as clean now and does not seem to be as white as back then but it is still nice and peaceful. I may make a trip in June to La Union when I go to AC. Clark still looks like Clark except for some of the changes made when the Philippine government took over. The hospital is a shell, some of the old dorms are still there and some being used by the PAF, golf course is still there used mostly by Japanese and Koreans. The Japanese took over the Chambers Hall area where all the Officers live and the area looks nice. The new NCO club was not being used and has grass growing from the roof as many of the newer houses built over in the area of 13 AF. Those big trees are still there. For the most part though they converted many building for use as duty free stores which were good at first but now very few people go there and they built a nice new mall just inside of the main gate. mailto: jerrross_1@yahoo.com
Dennis R. Leber Sgt - tour of duty - June 1973 to June 1974 - 1961 Comm. Sq
My commander was Mike Dewan. My duties were the crypto and communications room in the radar building. I was a member of the Wallace Webfoot’s and I think my roommate and I set the club record for downtime on a single dive. I enjoyed my time at Wallace and I was glad I did not get stationed at Clark. My address is 3611 Trout Run Road, York, PA. 17402 I still have many pictures on slides and get them out every once in awhile. mail to: rebel_drl@yahoo.com
Mark Humberd SGT tour of duty Jan 1972 Feb 1973 Radar operator
Some of the guys I remember were Jack Elan, Billy Ingram, Bud Grant, Joel Calvin Smith, SSGT Fredrick G Pike, Ivory Joe Jackson, Greg Eldridge (also stationed with him @ 21st Air Div Hancock Field NY. Thought he died of encephalitis but showed up in NY.) Rink ? (Davis) MP. Ed Goebig. SSGT Dobash. ?(Gary Rodriguez the trumpet player) Capt Jack Ross. Blackwell and Leblanc the Cajuns. Crazy George (WA TAH) the MP, TDY from Clark.
Had a water bed on the floor of my room. Loved my time on The Rock. Marshall the greatest jitney driver on the planet. Man I had not thought of these names in ages. Great bunch of guys who really lived in their time. Met Ed Goebig my first night in the Philippines. Went to the Mustang Bar in Angeles City. His second tour to the Philippines. I remember an MP who got the most magnificent tattoo of a rattlesnake on his entire arm, then tried to remove it with a razor blade. Too bad, he was a nice guy who could really play a mean guitar. The Submarine off the Tower Point and the Marines getting stuck on the beach because the gate on the stairway was left locked. F4 bubble checks and USO shows (Hello LA Community College). Horseback riding on tiny philippine horses. The tailor on the first floor pressing your uniforms. I did not know him but I remember a secret squirrel got electrocuted during my tour and I can remember the medic taking it very hard. I remember a Destroyer coming into port and ruining the local economy for about a week. Not a woman to be found in the club. Fond memories for the most part. Thanks for bringing them back.....mail to: mhumberd@yahoo.com
Don Daniel 848thAC&W from 1972-1973 as a very young Security Policeman
To tell you all about the good (and bad) things when it came to Wallace would certainly not be new tales, but would certainly be fun to hear from members to hash over the times. I am currently a Police Captain with the Webster Groves Missouri Police Dept (suburb of St. Louis). email contact:
mail to:CaptainDan166@aol.com
Edward Goebig MSgt (Ret) working the towers under Chief Mac 1972-73
Got hung up in a rut the first couple of years, Uncle Sam couldn't decide whether I belonged in a deep freeze or oven. Rotated from Baudette AFS, MN to Clark then Finley AFS, ND and finally Wallace. Loved the climate changes since I had the honor of signing in everywhere in January for some reason. I was very pleased to see someone mention Chief Mac in their entry. I remember driving my Honda down to Clark every break I had and going head to head with the Commander about it not being safe to drive that long distance year round. Chief Mac bailed me out several times over that and also gets credit for my turning career after I left. Never got a chance to go back until Clark and the other bases were closed but did run into some of those I served with at both Clark and Wallace. It took about 2 days there to figure out why they described it a one of the best kept secrets when I was in 5th TAC. I plan on making it back someday since I am counting down to a second retirement and a house on the beach south of Manila.
Gary Dykas CMSGT (ret). November 1972 - January 1975, I was an E-4 in Radar Maintenance.
Arrived at Wallace in November '72 with a big bad ugly attitude after coming in from Cape Newenham (794 AC&W) and not looking forward to back-to-back remotes. Add that to the C-123 ride from Clark to San Fernando and I knew I'd done something seriously wrong in a previous life. End of day one, and that was the last negative I can remember about my second "remote". What a place! What a party! I too tell many people about Wallace and I doubt half believe me. No place could be so great. I met the neatest people; Chief "Mac", B-25 tail gunner, shot down and captured in WWII and my oldest daughter's godfather. SMSgt Kelly, our first sergeant and another WWII veteran. Tommy and Mommy Thompson and time spent on the boat. Helen (Cherry Blossom owner) and all the guys in Radar Maintenance. I worked part time as the WASCOM MA. Too bad I didn't take pictures, I'd be a rich man today.
Met my wife Lina, singer with Tony and the band. Been married 30 years. Best WASCOM moments - membership nights, big Freddie, Caesar, Irene (George) caving in some dude's head with a tray, and realizing $1.44 an hour was not enough money to step between Fat Tommie and Auggie Doggie. Brothers-in-law, Dave Hampton (Ops) and Alex Hunter (SPs) shared the fun. Went to Ellsworth AFB SD and returned to Clark 18 months later. Never could understand why Wallace was so great and Clark so bad. Hated Clark so much we got a curtailment. After force cross-training in '78 into Electronic Warfare, we never went back spending our overseas tours in Europe. Would like to hear from the old gang: dykasg@cybertron.com
Roger Hoover SSGT tour of duty 1973
I was at wallace AS in 1973 and worked for the Director of Operations a LTC Davis, and NCOIC Harley Handy (MSgt). It was one of the best assignments I ever had...if anyone was there at that time and remembers the admin wennie and the good times at the WASCOM..give me an email.. Mailto: RHoover128@aol.com
David Hampton SSGT Had 3 tours (1972-1973) (1975-76) (1978-80)
I was with the 848 AC&W as a radar operator. In 1980 I went to Manila as an advisor for the Philippine Air Force at Villamor Air Base where I stayed for 4 years. But Wallace was the best. You asked me about my memories of life at Wallace. There are so many I could hardly begin to share them. Three years of partying with the Wallarock family is something that will live within us forever. Tom (Snake) Hampton pulling up for a softball game in a yellow super snake costume is a picture that will just not be forgotten. The day some guys took Bummer Hodge's yellow plymouth and made it into a yellow cab was something that could only happen at the Rock. The Wednesday nights in the WASCOM when everyone was broke and we still broke into a party will never be forgotten. My wedding day. No let's forget that! Although my bachelor party was wild. These are just just a few of my memories of the little piece of Heaven we called home. My e-mail address is dhampton @escarosa.org. I would love to hear from some the old guys from the Rock. Take care and thank you so much for bringing these memories back for me. God Bless You
Fred Croushore May 1973-May 1974
I was assigned the Det 2 14th Comm Sq. At that time I was an Inventory Management Spec. I worked with Thomas and Msgt Henry Black. That was mt first overseas experience and a year of maturing!!! I was reading some of the other entrys in the Blue book and I also remember the Silver Fox falling on the dance floor and Cheesburger. That was one of the greatest years in my life, the people and the experiences will live forever.
As a history "nut" I remember the trips to Manila and the American Cemetery and once myself and Rick Riggs and Dave McBroom flew from Manila to the island of Corregidor in a Cessna Skyhawk for a whole day tour of that famous island. Christmas eve 1973, several of us rented a Jeepney for the night and stock up at the Class 6 store with refreshments and as much candy as we could get at the BX and drove all around San Fernado, La Union getting drunk, listening to the Christmas Carols on the "8 Track" tape and throwing candy to all the little kids we saw. I had the opportunity to work for Capt David Dick, Det2 Commander, one of the finest officers I have known. I later met him at Malmstrom AFB, MT, when he was a full Colonel.
I remember the Cherry Blossum and shopping at the market. The Nal-a-Nac hotel and beach resort was my weekend away from Wallace. I remember many trips to Bagio, either in the Rabbit or the back of the laundry truck. I met my first wife there, she was assigned to the 848th, while the marriage did not work out, together we had one of the most wonderful treasures in the world, our daughter Jeannette.
As I write this entry and try to remember many things, I am looking at a 30 plus year old piece of wood: My Phillippine Hammer! I still have the stereo bought in the BX on Wallace, it does not get much use, but I will always have it. I remember a grass fire in the antenna field one day. That was my first experience at firefighting. Although I went on to spend 22 years on active duty, I also spent several years on three different civilian Fire Depts. I remember News Years Eve in Rizal Park in Manila alnog with thousands of other people celebrating and the fireworks out over Manila Bay. As I said I spent 22 years active duty retiring in 1993 as a MSgt/ I am now a GG-12, assigned to the National Air Inteligence Center at Wright-Patterson AFB.Mail to: Control98@aol.com
Robert "Bob" Marquardt TSGT, Aug.'73 to July '74 - (Det.2, 14 Comm. Group-HVAC Technician
I arrived on a hot August night at Clark AB and got my first exposure to nightlife on Fields Ave. Places like the "Body Shop", "Canned Heat", "The Oasis", etc. The next few days were quite an experience in Philippine culture. I arrived at Wallace and after checking in at Det.2 Orderly Room, I went to the WASCOM for dinner. Yes, you guessed it. I had a "Cheeseburger", right??? (Inside joke!) Does anyone out there remember "Lil", the female singer in the group that performed at the club??? I lived in Jubinal Compound on Poro Point right off the main road to the base. I bought a '70 dark blue ford Falcon (with rusted out floorboards) from someone who was leaving for the states. I took many trips to Clark AB on "supply runs" and to John Hay for R&R. Plus spending weekends at the resorts on the "Beach". Spent many nights at the local bars (Cherry Blossom, for one, cause it was close to the house and I could walk or crawl home if need be). Played a lot of poker at the WASCOM (back room). I'll never forget the night that "The Silver Fox" (the base commander) was dancing (not by himself either) and he fell off the raised dance floor. That was quite a sight to see. I sure hope he didn't hurt himself too bad
I also remember having a slight fender bender in front of the WASCOM with whom else, but the base commander in his staff car (I often wonder why I never got in trouble over that one?????) After that, I sold the Falcon and bought our "1st Shirts" baby blue '64 Ford Galaxy 500. Some of the names that ring the old mental bell are Capt. Dick (Det.2 Cdr.), Capt. Johnson (next Det.2 Cdr.), "Ernie" (worked on the generators-a good friend), "Tommy " Thompson ("Fishing" Boat Captain from CELSCO), "Tom" Thomas (partner in crime), "Bob" Cormier (Mr. Civil Engineering), "Hodges" (a drinking and running buddy) and I know as soon as I close, I'll think of some more. I have my "Hammer" sitting on my desk as a reminder of many fond memories of Wallace and the PI. Sorry to have left on such short notice but my father (since deceased) was having open-heart surgery and the Red Cross thought I should be at home. First time in a "whirly bird" or "chopper" was when I flew from Wallace to Clark with sadness in my eyes. Would like to hear from some of you long lost friends. My emails are bobbyjoe2@cheerful.com or bobbyjoe2@hotmail.com Again thanks for the great website. Robert J. Marquardt, (MSGT/USAF Retired-Dec.'78).
Jeffrey L. Fisher. CMSgt Tour of duty Aug 1974 -1976
I was just browsing the net and located your site. I was stationed at Wallace from Aug 1974 to sometime in 76 when I was transferred to Clark. My wife Eufemia ( Eufemia Giray Palce) and I found each other there on the quiet shores of the beach and after 30 years of marriage we both still dream of those days.
Mark Putnam A1C TDY to Wallace December 1974 for 3 months
Hi to all those that were at Wallace. I had the good fortune of a TDY assignment to Wallace sometime around December of 1974. I was an A1C out of Tokorozawa, JP working at Det 2, 14th Comm Sq. I was there for about 90 days and don't remember much except one heck of a case of Scarlet Fever that I ended up with. Do remember a ride up to Baguio City and walking through some fairly neat places. Would love to hear from someone that was there about the time I was. I do remember the base combined club. Something about check your weapons at the door along with your coats as I recall it. In retrospect, I was much too young to have appreciated the beauty of the spot but would love to do it again.
Stevan "Steve" Turk, Sgt. Tour of Duty Jan 76 to Dec 76 - Radar Operator
I have many fond memories of Wallace AS, San Fernando, John Hay AB, Clark AB and the Island of Luzon. While stationed at Wallace for a year it was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life and will always remember vividly. I learned to SCUBA dive there with the dive club and logged over 50 dives. I still have my original PADI dive card issued by Douglas N. Reinhart (Instructor # 6536). I brought my newly acquired hobby back to the states and continued to dive the Sonoma Coast of California for a few years, then in Hawaii, but not as much as I did while in the P.I.
I also remember riding my motorcycle (Honda XL250) all over the place, even back and forth to Clark AB. The 3+ hour ride was pretty hard on the body (especially the butt) yet fun. I still ride a motorcycle, except now my bike is quite a bit larger and more comfortable. I also have kept my original Philippines driver's license as a souvenir. The softball team was a lot of fun and I also bowled in a couple of the Phil-Am Bowling tournaments.
Actually, one of my goals when I arrived at Wallace AS was to practice vigorously during the year I was there and try to make the PBA tour when I returned. In 1970 I was on the team that won the State Championship in Bakersfield, California. My 190+ average needed to be 200 to qualify for the PBA but bowling went by the wayside due to all the fun distractions in the P.I. I never made it to the PBA but two of my former teammates did and I saw them on television a few times over the years to follow.
As an augmentee Fireman, I went up to Bagio City to fight the "Big Fire" which was quite an experience. We had been detailed to take the tanker truck up to Bagio City and arrived about midnight. Three of us were manning the hose on a two-story building which was fully engulfed. We ran out of water and foam in the tanker so one of the crew drove the truck to John Hay AB for water. As we stepped back about 20 feet from the building for a "smoke break" the building collapsed where we were standing. Luckily we were all able to run for safety and were not hurt. I have always wanted to return to the P.I. for a visit. I've heard that it had changed after the volcano erupted. I would be very curious to see how it is today.
mailto:turkn8or@adelphia.net
D. Shea, Capt. SD "Charlie Crew" - Stationed at Wallace from Nov 1977 - Nov 78
Was a rated supplement type from SAC/B-52s. Really enjoyed my year in the PI and all the folks I worked with! I continued my escape from SAC and spent the rest of my career in MAC where I flew T-39's, C-130s & C-21s in the 1st Gulf War. Retired as an 0-4 in 1992. Enjoyed the website :-) mail to: crewdog@arkansas.net
Frank Hockenbrocht TSGT, Stationed at Wallace from 1971 to1975 (Det 2, 14 Comm Gp.) - 1975 to 1979
(Det 6, 1961 Comm Gp.) and retired civilian until 1988. My e-mail address is amianan22@yahoo.com
David Dean
. I have had a few assignments to Wallace. The first time was a couple of long TDY in 1965-1966 time frame. Then in 1969-1970. I was then pcs to Wallace in 1980 for 15 months and then again in 1982 and leaving in August of 1984. There are a couple of people living in the Panama City area who were stationed with me at Wallace. I have some pictures that I will dig out and see if I can send them to you. PLEASE UPDATE EMAILS
Tim "Action" Aukshun: Stationed at Wallace AS, Det six, 1961st CG. Jan 1974 to Dec 1975.
Became a PADI scuba instructor there. Then again reassigned to OLF, 1961st CG Wallace AS, August 1983 to August 1984. Retired there in 1985 and have been teaching diving at my Ocean Deep Diver Training Center now located at Coconut Grove (next to Cabana) in Bauang area. Currently the VFW Post 9892 Commander 2001-2002. Remember, Ocean Deep is the place to be, for the Wallace Air Station retiree! Stay wet! Oceandp@sflu.com or scuba@sflu.com
Chuck McCallum, Captain - Chief Stan/Eval - Tour date - 1976-77
Buck Brennan’s take on Wallace brought back some old and fond memories. Buck’s foot prints were all over the air station – I remember him holding court with his cup of coffee every night at the WASCOM, available to his troops, enlisted as well as officer, for his sage advice. He definitely deserves his name in the hall of fame. I was also fortunate to serve with him in AWACS.
I was stationed at Wallace as a young captain head of stan/eval at the same time as Buck Brennan and Joe Wettlin. Unlike Buck I didn’t arrive at Wallace on the bus – was fortunate to be traveling with Joe on the airplane over from the states and we were met by the current 848th ops officer at Clark in his POV – so I received the “VIP” treatment since I was with the new ops officer.
I remember the spin up for the recovery from the failed ORI we that we faced. Working with the 3 TFW guys, Col Bartlett, 3FTW/DO, and from the 3 FTW GCI shop, Jack Pettigrew and Rod Chin. Also convincing the 3 TFW pilots through a lot of briefings to that they had to revert to the World War II tactics that the Wallace controllers had to run to pass our part of the ORI - simultaneous front and stern splitting up the 2-ship with no mutual support which was totally contrary to what the 26th aggressors and the fighter weapons school were trying to teach.
Cope Thunders were fun – being taught how to control them by the aggressor controllers Dan “Truck” Futryk, “Oz” Osburn, “Meathead” Talbot, and Dave McGee. Saw some of them as well as some of the “old” 26th pilots at the 35th Aggressor Reunion at Nellis last week (August 2007).
Also remember a huge promotion party at one of the beach hotels by several guys being promoted to captain. Larry Groth, John Shelton, a Combat Sage controller Fred something, I forget the others – too many dead brain cells. It lasted all weekend and half the F-4 guys from Clark showed up too, in part to celebrate the ORI’s “outstanding” result. Some other social events are probably censored!! Great site, Jerry – glad I ran across it. mailto:chuckmccallum@embarqmail.com
Buck Brennan CMSGT tour of Duty July 1976 to Jun 1977 as OPS SUP
Aarrived at Clark AFB and The first thing they wanted was anyone with us currency over a $20 dollar bill to turn it in. Well as an old war dog I knew why. My trip to Wallace was on the daily milk run, it was hot and dry but reached Wallace late that after noon. No one was there to greet me and did not have the foggiest idea were to stay , as a chief one gets to know how to move things so a few phone calls and here came my OPS officer LT/COL Joe Wetlin We find a room in the NCO dorm and I get some rest.
First Day on the job!!! Went up to OPS place looked like a pig sty, found the Ops office was in back of ops outside in a 10 by 40 ft trailer. Again this was not my cup of tea. was setting in the office when this Capt came bursting in the office and started yelling at this Msgt about the bloody sch'd. Now this Msgt was a mild mannered person and just sat there while his Capt. chewed on him. After a few min's I asked the Msgt for the sch'd, looked at it and seen Joe Wetlin had signed it. turned to the Capt and said get the @#%@# out of my office and when LT.COL Wetlin come's back see him.
Latter that day I was making my rounds and came apon a young E4 sleeping in the break room, He smelled of booze that would rip your head off. I kicked him in his butt and he rolled off the couch, stood up looked at me and I thought he was going to faint. We went out the back and first thing I asked him was if he wanted to stay at wallace. he replied yes sir, I told him to get his butt cleaned up and with a class b uniform and be back in 45 mins. When he returned he looked sharp as hell, and turned out to be my best E4 on the site.
Now back to the trailer during my rounds I seen the training section had a nice office in front part of ops . When Joe wetlin came in he had already heard about my initial appearence at ops. He grinned and said welcome aboard and things are looking up. I told him this trailer is not an office for us and we will move to the Training office. I went in and spoke with Maj Monagass and his first word was I've been waiting to see how long it would take you to make this move. Now the bad news hit me, the unit had failed an ORI from PACAF, not a good thing, so Joe and I had our work cutt out.
My first encounter with the CO was not good. I went to an Airmen's meeting and all I heard was complaining and whinning over everything. Went it came for me to say something I looked at the CO and said this was a waste of my time and recommended in the future they have an agenda and solutins to these so called problems. I was not invited again. Now for the things that really bit into me. First the troops came to me and said they did not have any blankets so i went to the 1ST SGT and asked him to order some blankets, his words was well the troops gave them to their hammers so they can go without. Then I went to the Supply Sgt and aked to get some lawn mowers for the OPS area, he replied No!! they are not on your supply list and you are not authorized them.by now this chiefs irish had really hit the roof.
I was determined to rectify the situation most chiefs would do, I got sneaky and got a pick-up and went to Clark. Found the Chief of supply and told him my problem. Well guess what they had lots of brand new USAF blue wool blankets . He asked me how many I wanted and how many mowers i wanted. along with 50 gals of assorted camofloge paint and 200 blankets , 2 lawn mowers i returned to wallace .I handed out blankets to my troops and sent the rest to the 1SGT. the next day the Supply Sgt wanted me to sign for the Lawn mowers, I informed the good SGT that I signed for them at Clark and they would stay in the OPS area.
The paint was later used to paint Radar maint and OPS. One thing that stands out and to this day myself and a MSGT from Radar maint painted the sidewalk multi colors around the OPS building. as the PACAF team said follow the yellow brick road.After ^mos of work we passed the ORI with an outstanding . From that time on I had one of the best ops bunch I had seen in a long time. There were a few that bled, some were fired and some returned to the states early. It did not take long to find out what the problems were and after all this I was able to enjoy my tour at wallace.I could write a book about this place but the most lasting memoery was we put on a carinval to make money after the PC commander gave his okay and raised over 50,000.00 pesos for an orphange in San Frenando. MAILTO:chiefb37@verizon.net
Bill
Thompson (A1C) Tour of Duty: June 1978 - June 1979
I worked on Alpha Crew (Radar Ops). My tour started pretty badly...our bus
broke down on the way up from Clarke the first day and I ended up stranded
for several hours, not having any idea where to go or how to get there. Finally
arrived at Wallace via jeepney and found the place deserted. It was USO show
night at the WASCOM. Several people offered to buy me dinner since the dining
hall was already closed. I was struck by how much of a family everyone seemed
to be.
The tour from then on was great and the location was beautiful. Met several
friends there that I still keep in touch with...in particular: Don French
who was with the Police Detachment. Don ended up introducing me to my wife
Thelma and we have now been married for 27 years. Don and I also bought one
of the proverbial "pass down" cars...a blue monster with a broken
window, no floor board in the back and we had to carry a 5 gallon jug of water
in the car for the inevitible radiator overheating.
We sold it when we left to someone else.
I remember monster softball games, playing lots of tennis, trips to Baguio,
movies and the Wascom. Two for one dinners on Tuesday nights. Big Freddy,
the house band (Gina the singer...could not speak English, but sure could
sing). Playing drums with the band one night. A drink called a Flying Tiger
(never again). I remember some guy trying to walk across the street from the
enlisted barracks to the dining hall during a typhoon and getting blown down
the street. I remember a ship getting blown into the rocks next to the base.
I also remember trying to climb down the rickety stairs to the beach with
a hangover. Not a pretty site. The drone launches were always fun to watch.
Some of the names I remember: Col. Meadows, Tommy Thompson, Jesse Stokes,
Big Steve E., Brian Peters, Steve Cullanan, Billy Marse, "Charlie"
Manson, Ken "Doc" Mebane, Dave Hampton, Don Hagemann, Greg Deane,
Dave Russell, just to name a few. I remember a lot of peoples first or last
names.
We have been lucky on occasion to run into people who have been to Wallace
or lived near there. My home e-mail address is: thompswk@vol.com
Bob Buikus SRA 1978-80 - LGTM Base Motor Pool
It was a wild ride while stationed there. Party was pretty much the theme while I was there. The WASCOM was kickin' back then. I remember most of the employees like Rick the cashier, Irene, Bong-Bong and Big tall freddy. I was there when the Phillippine Navy ship stalled about 15 miles out and was washed ashore standing in a couple feet of water. But that was not the most memorable event. The most was the people--all the base employees, great people. The first GI I met from Wallace was Chuck Fisher. Then Joe hall and the rest. Great assignment, great people. Loved it. email to: buiks@cox.net