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| Name: | Kurt Newhard |
| E-mail address: | knew1@live.com |
| Comments: | I was in Sidi as a Radioman, 6/72--10/75. If you recall the Band "Hot Chocolate", I played the Bass. Those were
some of The Best Days of My Life! Thank You Morocco. |
| Name: | Edd Miller |
| E-mail address: | mredd777@earthlink.net |
| Comments: |
stationed in Sidi 63-65...Would like to hear from anyone there at that time..Robert(A) Smith from Sweetwater, Texas would be a good start...I worked crypto // broadcast...stayed at hotel mamora most of the time. Mostly good memories..there was that one restriction that wasn't that great.. |
| Name: | Todd Laudeman |
| E-mail address: | jtlaudeman@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Great to read all the stories. I was stationed in Morocco from 1972-1977. I was a radioman and spent the first 3 years working in Tech Control. I transferred to Special Services in 1975 to lead tours around the country and manage the stables; in 1976 I was sent to Bouk as the Special Services "Officer" as an E-5. I can not say enough good things about my tour there...the experience, the friends, and the fun.
My wife and I returned in 2005 for two weeks and found it just as exciting and enjoyable. Todd Laudeman (RM2) 1972-1977 |
| Name: | Steve Robinson |
| E-mail address: | azgr8@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Love the site, I was stationed at NTC Kenitra Public works, and have been searching for fellow seabees from 1974 to 1976. |
| Name: | CTR3. steve fleis |
| E-mail address: | sfleis@fleisinsurance.com |
| Comments: | Joe. i also was in sidi yahia from nov 69 to jan 71. i have found joe schwab and mike mckracken, that is all. would love to see photos ot then and what is happening to the site now. |
| Name: | Ken Whitehead |
| E-mail address: | whitehead.k@comcast.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&ref=search&gid=164356873081 |
| Comments: | I arrived in Sidi Yahia in December 1963 as a CTOSN, and left in November 1965, shortly after making CTO2. I worked in the Naval Security Group spaces on the second floor of the Terminal Building. Like many of the married men, I lived in Kenitra with my wife and son. We had a daughter there in 1965. Among the families living in our apartment building on Rue Becknuer were Larry & Jean Dean, Don & Chris Gregory, Kenny & Mary Carley, Barbara & Jerry Brown, Janet & Bob Rasmutten, Dottie & Robert (Bob) D'Imperio, Ridgley & ? Brown, Jean & I, and others. It was a great duty station. There are some great photos of Morocco at
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&ref=search&gid=164356873081 |
| Name: | George Lybarger |
| E-mail address: | geoletlyb2@frontiernet.net |
| Comments: | Jumped back on here to check out the most recent visitors to your book.....also to let everyone know that my e'mail
address is changed slightly......enjoy visiting every time I pull this up.....Have a merry Xmas everyone.... |
| Name: | PN2 Frank Herman |
| E-mail address: | cosmo@anon.net |
| Comments: | La Bessa Lakiqum (spelling just phonetic):
I proudly served at Old Navy No. 214 in the Security Group (I was a type of A Brancher working in the Legal Office on the second floor, adjacent to the admin office)from 7/62 until 7/64 (remembering the time in ll/63 when JFK was assassinated---bad times on the base for the whole month; no liberty, ugh); and loved my brief tour of duty; learned some Moroccan and French during my tour of duty; made some friends, made some enemies; but will always have fond remembrances of the "good old days." Loved the medinas and souks, traveling to Casablance, Rabat, Sidi Slimane, Bouknadel, Port Lyautey, Marrakech, Moulay Idris, Fez, Meknex, and on and on and on with too many places to remember. Young and foolish was I then, but memories abound. Lee la say eeda (phonetic again) |
| Name: | Deland Simmonds |
| E-mail address: | dsimmonds1@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was station at navcomsta maorocco from 1964 to 1965
worked in the relay center. I wish i took more pictures of the coutry. from morocco i was station on the USS Thomas J Gary DER326 We did a around the world c |
| Name: | Reeve |
| E-mail address: | reeve@rogers.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://gedon.jislaaik.com/propecia/propecia-results.html |
| Comments: | Our partners : ambien retail price is about ambien retail price... flexeril is about flexeril... Hey, nice site. Just dropped by to say hi. Hope things are going well for you. Long time no talk, buddy :) Take care and look here our site . |
| Name: | Darrell Swan |
| E-mail address: | dswan52@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Hello all,
I was a Radioman and I went right from A school, Bainbridge, Maryland to Sidi Yahia in the late 1970's till 1971. Boy I had a lot of fun in Morocco, One Eyes Jacks' Bar, the train rides to Tangiers', the bugs. After Morocco I was stations on the USS Shreveport until June 1974. I got to see a lot of the world in the Navy. Unfortunately I lost all my photos of Morocco from a house fire. Happy Memories to all. Darrell |
| Name: | Larry F. Lachat |
| E-mail address: | larrylachat@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hello, I was a CT "T" Brancher, arrived in Sidi in June of 1969. I was in Bravo Section. A bunch of us had a Reunion in Memphis Tn in 2008. 13 of us and our wives. We are meeting again in Pensacola in April of 2010 and hope to do this every other year. We are looking for shipmates from that time to join us. Contact me for information if interested. |
| Name: | Carl Cunert |
| E-mail address: | ccunert@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Thanks for the Web site. It really brings back memories.
Has it really been 39 years since I was stationed there ? Just thinking of all the water that has past by in that time makes me realize how fortunate I was to have a short stay in Morocco. I have always said I'd like to maybe go and revisit the area and then when I saw the most current pictures I decided my memories were better left alone. Still a little sadness entered my feelings for youth that is gone forever. Thanks again I will visit this site often. If anyone here is a Ham radio operator maybe we could get a net setup on the HF frequencies. Just e-mail me if anyone is interested. My Amateur call is AB8CC. |
| Name: | Sharra |
| E-mail address: | sharra_r@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Randall J. Bland, formerly a CT 3rd Class in Morocco, who stationed at USNCS Sidi Yahia from October 1969-January 1971, passed away on 30 October, 2009, in Chicago, IL, from a massive heart attack. He was 62. He had previously suffered several debilitating strokes.
Before Morocco, he had served at the USNCS in Guam, after graduated from "A" school at Corry Field, Pensacola, FL. RIP, Randall. |
| Name: | George Lybarger |
| E-mail address: | geoletlyb@frontiernet.net |
| Comments: | Just ran on to this dreambook you have and it's great.
Brings back a lot of memories....Was there from 1973 to 76. Was DCS chief in Tech Control. Recongnize a lot of the names but can't put a face with them for some reason....wonder if 30 plus years could be the cause...Have seen a few of the old gang over the years....Dan Kelly, Mike Trujillo, Ron Lionetti, Jim & Betty Ebrecht and several others....Pretty sure Mel Craig who signed your book used to creep for me in tech control....Now that I have discovered this, trust that I will be revisiting it from time to time to see who else has found it.... |
| Name: | Lynne Carr Matthes |
| E-mail address: | seattlesurgical@msn.com |
| Comments: | I enjoyed your tale of Sidi Yahia, but you forgot about the children who served. Yes, even though we weren't enlisted or officers, we served by spending our educational hours at either Stanford C Hooper Elementary on the base or at the High School in Kenitra. As the daughter of CTCM Jack Carr, I have very fond memories of my time in Morocco. When we returned to the states, I could tell of fabulous school field trips unequaled by my stateside friends. |
| Name: | Udo Martin |
| E-mail address: | udobmw@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I had the pleasure (No S***) of being stationed at Sidi Yahia until it closed...then moved down to Kenitra till it closed. My son was one of the last babies to be born at the base hospital in September 77. He's a squid also (SWO LCDR) attached to USS Freedom LCS1. Nothing but good memories...one of the best duty stations of my Navy career.
Tks much, cul/udo |
| Name: | Ron (Nort) Thomton |
| E-mail address: | rrt@hcinet.net |
| Comments: | Was a CTT2 Assigned to NAVCOMSTA Rota from Dec 1971 to Dec 1973. Back to Spain again to VQ2 from Jan 1978 to Jan 1981. No doubt the most enjoyable tours of my 21 year naval career. Would love to revisit the country and still hope to do so. Time goes quick. Already looking at another retirement in June 2010.
Stay safe - Stay Navy. |
| Name: | Eric Dagley |
| E-mail address: | endinmaine@msn.com |
| Comments: | I also was station there from October 1971 - August 1972 and enjoyed it very much. I miss seeing all the great men and women I met. |
| Name: | Neil T Williams |
| E-mail address: | ntw1949@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at Sidi Yahia as an ETN2 from 1969 to 1971. My room mate Gary Albeck and our blond German Shepard lived indowntown Kenton. We had room mates from the US, Eric and Kathy. We had friends Si Mohammed and Homed Kensey. we also had a French/American friend, Alan Carlton who sold British cars like MGB's that Gary and I bought. I had a Red one and Gary got a blue one. We are also on facebook as "Neil T Williams" and "Gary Albeck". |
| Name: | Michael Hare |
| E-mail address: | mshare@suddenlink.net |
| Comments: | I was at the Commsta from summer of 67 until fall of 69. Worked in the trfc center and atcu. Met a great bunch of men while over there. Jake Bowen, Ken Barrington, Felix Underwood and brother Philip, Mike Sessions, Terry Braithwaite, and many of the marines that were over there like Bradshaw, the hulk(can't remember his name) too many more to remember. Would love to hear from any of you that were over there during those years.
Michael Hare (Rabbit) |
| Name: | Darian Paganelli |
| E-mail address: | ppaganelli@aol.com |
| Comments: | Was stationed at Bouknadel USNRST from Feb 69 till Dec 70. Had extended for 6 months in lieu of the regular 15 month tour. ET's I remember were Slaggy ETN2, Parker ETN2, Helman ETNSN, Riley ET1, Casher ET1, Godek ETNSN, Feldman ETN3, Jennings ETN2, Weakley ET1, Holmes ETNSN, Daniels ETN2, Dye ETCM, Gorsuch ETC, Wheeler ENS, Pennington ETC, Lippert ETN3, Crockett ETN2, Fons ETN3, Peeler ETN2, Townsend ETN3, Jackson ET1, Hartman ETN2, Sharp ETN2, Heisel ET1, Deaner ETN2, Paganelli ETN2. Yupp, been working on remembering the names of all of the ET's who worked at USNRST Bouknadel from the spring of 69 till December of 1970 when I left.
Just a note, ETN-2 Bill Jennings was killed in a motorcycle accident on the perimeter road of the transmitter site. His helmet was not buckled when he crashed. May his soul rest in peace where ever he may be. FRT-5 autotune 5 KW HF (2-30MHz)transmitters by Collins Radio, FRT-39 10 KW HF transmitters by TMC, FRT-40 40 KW HF transmitters by TMC, FRT-62 200 KW HF transmitter by TMC and Two Low Freq KC range 100 KW transmitters by LTV were knows as Alpha and Bravo. Plage Des Nations, (aka Bouk Beach to the sailors that frequented it) What a place to relax, only 7 miles away from the transmitter station. Many good memories of my 21 months there. Please excuse all of the boring details in this post. I am in the process of digitizing my 120 slides of my stay there, lots of pictures of the residents and equipment at that time period that I was there. This stuff is just pouring out of my memory - again, sorry about the data dump. Regards, Pag |
| Name: | Son |
| E-mail address: | fla@windstream.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sonandersonartifacts.com |
| Comments: | Glad to see you posted Dick, maybe we'll generate some interest from some of those Navy buddies.
I went from Sidi Yahia to the Intrepid CVS-11 when I left Morocco. My two years aboard, we got the highest scores ever achieved in communications when evaluated at GTMO. Looked at maps of Morocco yesterday, and zoomed in on the old Sidi Yahia base. Looks like some changes were made since we were there, and also looked vacant. Tried to zoom in on the old fort at the mouth of the Seboo River, but couldn't find it. Tried to find the clock in Kenitra, couldn't figure out where it was located either. Old memories seem brighter than they did when being made. |
| Name: | Dick Allwelt |
| E-mail address: | allwelt@bciwildblue.com |
| Comments: | Stationed at Sidi 61-62 and worked at receivers operating a CW circuit. Great Fun. I see Son Anderson made a post here. He & I communicate now & then. We were the Best. Just ask the guys who operated CW on the Saratoga back then. We could rattle with the best of em. Pasttimes were going to the EM club for a hamburger steak & a Heinekens, and going to Kenitra and even Rabat to the American Club. Transferred to a tin can out of Newport, RI (Samuel B. Roberts, DD-823) in 63. Hope some others we were with see this site and join in. Would be great to hear from some of you. |
| Name: | Joseph Roberson |
| E-mail address: | jrob2259@aol.com |
| Comments: | Served in Morocco in Charlie Section at the "cage" from Sep 1969-Dec 1970. |
| Name: | Gordon Hagan |
| E-mail address: | usmc1518@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Served in Sidi Yahia 1961-1962. Marine Corps. Was assigned to Direction Finding station. |
| Name: | SHELLEY SIMON |
| E-mail address: | SHELLEYBELL@VERIZON.NET |
| Comments: | I was there back in 76 my father was Captain Simon. He sure would love to hear from anyone that was stationed there at that time. I have many fond memories of Morocco!! |
| Name: | Del Pelletier |
| E-mail address: | plumber1942@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Was in Morocco from April 62 Sept 63 Worked Shore Patrol Interpreter while I was there. loved every minute of it. Knew a lot of people while I was there. Tom O'rouke, Lipinski. Jenkins. Lcdr Ed Kelley. Forgot a lot more. Was single at the time. Hope to here from someone Del (Frenchy } |
| Name: | John Bass |
| E-mail address: | johnbass4@msn.com |
| Comments: | I was there from Jan 1966 - somewhere in 1968. I married an American school teacher who taught at the base and my oldest son Paul was born in Kenitra shortly after the 6-Day War in the middle East. I was a member of the Sundowner's riding club at Kenitra and the Sportsman club at Sidi Yahia. A friend, Rex Henry and I imported 3 Arabian horses from the Haras Royale (King's stables) shortly after I left for Ft. Meade Maryland. |
| Name: | Son |
| E-mail address: | Anderson Sr |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sonandersonartifacts.com |
| Comments: | Cant believe there's none from 61 -62 that worked with me at the receiver site signing this book.
I know they're all up in age, but somebodys gotta be hanging on. Like to hear about where you are, and what you're up to these days. Andy ZBM1 6-62, that was me in Sidi Yahia Morocco. Left Morocco, and went aboard the USS INTREPID CVS-11, now a museum in New York City.. Who would have ever thought? |
| Name: | mark shores |
| E-mail address: | mark_z56@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | 1974-75. Love to hear from all my buddies. Your sign is my sign. |
| Name: | Jerry Blaine |
| Comments: | Hi again, my email address is jerry_b_blaine@yahoo.com the posted email address does not show the under scores for some reason. |
| Name: | Jerry Blaine |
| E-mail address: | jerry_b_blaine@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Hi, I was a Marine at Bouknadel 1974 - 1975 and would love to find some of the "old guard" I was stationed with. I did seemingly everything from post duty, cpl. of guard, sgt. of guard, platoon sgt., shore patrol, etc etc etc. |
| Name: | Hal Coburn |
| E-mail address: | osocal@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hi - I was a YN stationed in Morocco from February 1975 to September 1978. I arrived fresh out of YNA school and was sent to Bouknadel, where I worked for Commander Brenner. When they started closing the bases I was sent to Sidi where I worked in admin for CWO2 Vinson - then in personnel. Following Sidi I was transferred to NTC Kenitra where I worked in personnel doing enlisted transfers. By 1978 I was a YN2, but the day I left I was separated from the Navy and was a civilian. I made a lot of good friends, and have kept in touch with a few. I recognize many names in the dreambook. We traveled all over Morocco - from Goulamine in the south (just before the Green March) to Tetouan in the north, and many points in between. If anyone knows what happened to a UT2 named Pecci - who was stationed at NTC Kenitra around 77/78 please drop me a line. |
| Name: | Chuck Lirette |
| E-mail address: | cajun54@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | Arrived in Moroc in December of 1969. Remained there for 16 months. Left in April 71. Friends there I remember in no particular order:
Lamar Todd, Paul Gagnet, Roger Tench, Roger Johnson, Donnie Horton, Alan Faulkner, Lt Chris Asmusen, Tabie, Rick Patterson, Joe Franzen, New Guy, Greg Fontain, Abdoul the Moroccan who had the horse ranch not far from the base, Jimmy Nieto, lots more when I have time to get back on here; oh and lots of locals named Mohamed.... Chuck |
| Name: | RM2 PAUL M. GAGNET USNR |
| E-mail address: | unclpaul@aol.com |
| Comments: | This website is fantastic, I believe that all of us carry some found memories from our landing in Rabat, stop off in Kenitra, and green bussed to Sidi. Probably like most of us it wasn't where we wanted to be in our lives but the residuals over the years have been fantastic. Every year or so I get a mysterious phone call, "Hey Caje, Its....., then we laugh and reminis about the days of our Morrocan Experience. There was something mystical about that country. It was really beautiful and full of history. Of course back then all we cared about was the Mongie Maids and the Cous Cous. The friends we made and held on to have been a priceless adventure in itself. Up to date, I am working for a company called YRC Transportation, it used to be Roadway Express & Yellow Transportation, now combined into one Giant of a company. Its been a blast. I sell our company every day. My other interest in life are my 3 fantastic children. I have twin boys 29 and a beautiful daughter 25. The rest of my life goes to the Knights of Columbus. Its a Catholic, Family, Fraternal organization.
Keep the blog alive, everybody stay in touch, and only remember the great times we had in the cork forest. Caje |
| Name: | Kenny Croy |
| E-mail address: | kcroy@cfifl.com |
| Comments: | Seems like yesterday,and yet it has been 32 years. what a country what a great time it was. I was the photographers mate(PHAN) attached to sidi yahia. I was stationed there from Feb. 1976 to May of 1977, I spent alot of time on the road from sidi to kenitra with the photo lab being at NTC. I worked for JO3 Kimball, GM1 Bob Stinett, & Lt.Jg Jan Mc
cardle out of Special services.We tried to put out a monthly paper the caravan I thought it turned out well. Great people to work for,they cut me alot of slack. A couple of ladies worked on the paper with us also Jo Anne Martin,(can't thik of the other one right now) I don't know how we ended up in the com building but we did.(It sure was convenient for calling home). So many friends Pete & Pat Peterson, Homer & Sharon Lucas,mostly our siamese cat Kieba that was given to us in the BEQ wondered from room to room, it kept alot of peole from getting into trouble. Trey Horn, Alan Sebastion, Sal Santenello, Jim Irish, Mark Hill, Denise Tate some of the rm"s & marines. Capt.Simon was CO, his children Craig & Shelly were there alot. All the train trips to Marrakech, & other places, but mostly the van trips to the holy land Ketama the Rif Mountains oh so beautiful especially in the winter. I had alot of friends at NTC as well Ron Whisner, Barbara Quinn, John McCain, many other corpsmen and nurses. thanks to every one for a fantastic tour of duty I tried to extend but was denied to help with the closing. We had the greatest 4th of July ever 1976, what a celebration. If we could only go back for a day oh sweet Morocco-a taste of something fine. Yours, Kenny Croy |
| Name: | john pennington |
| E-mail address: | alexander1956@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Hi....was at ncs from 01-74 to 05-75. I have many photos. I remember something of that time every day. |
| Name: | Dennis Carpenter |
| E-mail address: | captncarp@msn.com |
| Comments: | RM3 at NCF Sidi Yahia 1959-1960....left in Feb. 1961. Worked out in the antenna field at Receivers. That was fun..Just two RM's on a shift with the GUMMIES next door and the Marine's outside chasing MO's thru the antenna field all nite. They luv'd that copper wire.
Liked using CW keys mounted on the receiver banks to talk to the Chief in Circuit Control. Glad I found this site....always wondered what became of NHY after the satellites came in. I figured it would probably become redundent. |
| Name: | david w westberry |
| E-mail address: | westberry@desoto.net |
| Comments: | san diego, boot - uss hunt 674 - usntc bainbridge class 11/53 (teletype) - pt lyautly & sidi yahia from l953-55 worked com center and s.p.- played softball with nap napolitano and j j minnick. after navy worked fo bendix field engs (for nasa ) at site in ft myers, fla - at present in real estate & mobile home dealer in arcadia, fla. (enjoyed morocco) |
| Name: | Ray Lawrence |
| E-mail address: | rayjlawrence@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | My father was stationed there (NAVCOMSTA) and I remember bits and pieces of Morocco / Navy Housing etc. I think I was 3 or 4 at the time. My father was a Radioman: James A. Lawrence. |
| Name: | Son Anderson Sr |
| E-mail address: | fla@windstream.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sonandersonartifacts.com |
| Comments: | Checked back to see if any of the CW operators I knew had found this site yet. 1961-62 I worked at the receiver site out in the boonies. I often think about working with Balboa, Several ships and dahdit, dididit, dididit, all fast speedkey operators. Boy we could fly back in those days. Top guns of CW...............lol
Abdulla and Sabastian were the barrack Morrocans when I was there. Favorite place at Sidi Yahia, The chow hall and EM club. Hated Mo patrol and the heat. Andy ZBM1 6-62 |
| Name: | Marty Cashmore |
| E-mail address: | charles.cashmore@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | I was stationed at the NAvcomsta from around 4/64 through 6/65. Worked in the relay room and other places. Knew a guy - Marty Tallucci, another guy (muscle builder) Stein,
and can't remember the others names. Had a great time - first duty sta overseas. Went to the USS Raleigh LPD-1 (new at the time). then more school, Viet Nam, Great Lakes, Alaska (kodiak) California and out after 8 + years. Nice to see the postings ! |
| Name: | James Carter |
| E-mail address: | Commotech_98_64_06@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Wow cool site. Brings back a flood of memories. Kinda makes me wish I was actually stationed there instead of just being there as a dependent. My dad was stationed there from 73-76 and he worked between NTC and NCS. If anyone cares to get in touch with me please do as I would like to try and rekindle some old relations |
| Name: | Jim White |
| E-mail address: | whitejim@machlink.com |
| Comments: | I was a CTT, from November 1969 to January 1971 (early out). Played football and spent time downtown. I am in one picture of the cous cous bowl. |
| Name: | Jim White |
| E-mail address: | whitejim@machlink.com |
| Comments: | I was a CTT, from November 1969 to January 1971 (early out). Played football and spent time downtown. I am in one picture of the cous cous bowl. |
| Name: | Son Anderson |
| E-mail address: | fla@windstream.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sonandersonartifacts.com |
| Comments: | Sorry for the double post, got an errow when I tried to post. Went back and done it over and that's what we got. Not to mention my last name where the email was suppose to be. But what did ya expect from a fellow with a head full of dits and dahs..? |
| Name: | Son |
| E-mail address: | Anderson |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sonandersonartifacts.com |
| Comments: | Sidi Yahia, from 61-62. I was known as "Andy" from Florida. Speedkey 6-62. Made RM3 there, and RM2 shortly after being transferred to the USS Intrepid CVS11. I still have my chrome plated, name engraved "bug" and hit on it now and then. I never liked the place, too hot for me. I remember Joe Ruff, Al Ledbetter, Olin Hoover, Richard Alwelt, Joe "K5DIY" of Texas, Sellitto, and many faces that have probably changed since then. We all must be in our late 60's by now. The Intrepid is the avatar on my website, and it's gotten me in touch with several old Navy buddies. Would like to hear from more of em, and see how they're doing. |
| Name: | Son |
| E-mail address: | Anderson |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sonandersonartifacts.com |
| Comments: | Sidi Yahia, from 61-62. I was known as "Andy" from Florida. Speedkey 6-62. Made RM3 there, and RM2 shortly after being transferred to the USS Intrepid CVS11. I still have my chrome plated, name engraved "bug" and hit on it now and then. I never liked the place, too hot for me. I remember Joe Ruff, Al Ledbetter, Olin Hoover, Richard Alwelt, Joe "K5DIY" of Texas, Sellitto, and many faces that have probably changed since then. We all must be in our late 60's by now. The Intrepid is the avatar on my website, and it's gotten me in touch with several old Navy buddies. Would like to hear from more of em, and see how they're doing. |
| Name: | Patrick Lisk CTR2 |
| E-mail address: | irishpl@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Guess I'm the oldest shipmate (1953-1955) Closed Port Lyautey (Kenitra) and went to Sidi. At that time it was French Morocco. The EM (El Morocco) Club was downtown Lyautey. As a ditty chaser I also was a Ham operator call sign CN8GI, passed my exam at Sidi. I remember the RM's were next door to our operation and once in awhile I would go over during the mid watch and commingle. They would let me work ship to shore and GFG weather station in Gibraltar. I could receive 40+ and send very fast w/o a bug. I used a bug at my site, NHY. I was told VCS was a poplar venue in Rabat. I spent most of my off time at the bunker or the ham shack. Coming from the projects of Newark, NJ this was a shock, but at least you could get a beer or VO without being carded. I just turned 74 and still hold down a real estate job. Entered business after the Navy. Imperial Beach CA, Sidi Yahia, Midway Is., Cheltenham, MD Cheltenham (NSS) was the best duty station for me. Sidi was kinda Spartan as we were the group to commission the base. Got married and brown bag'd it. Reside in NJ |
| Name: | robert freeman |
| E-mail address: | sclaus36@comcast.net |
| Comments: | went to sidi yahia straight out of class a radioman school at bainbridge md in april 1955 left oct 56 to uss tarawa cvs40, commissioned uss independence cva62 in 59, then shoreduty navcommsta norfolk for 18 months, then staff comideastfor ( those days commander middle eastern forces)
rode the three white ships in the navy at that time - uss valcour, uss greenwich bay and the uss duxbury bay - they were small seaplane tenders out of littlecreek va, they would rotate over and we would move from ship to ship while admiral rode his plane, then to the uss picket agr7 out of san francisco where i got discharged after 10 years as Rm1 and had passed chief's exam. got out went college eventually law school and became an attorney. Loved the navy got out for family reasons |
| Name: | Paul Finical |
| E-mail address: | pjfinical@embarqmail.com |
| Comments: | Was stationed at Sidi Yahia Jan. 1960 thru August 1961.
Was RM3 and worked in circuit control. Worked with RMC Joe Toth, RMC Ed Coleman, RMC Charles Gaulley. |
| Name: | francis j dunn |
| E-mail address: | dunnfj@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was at sidi from 2/69 - 5/70. I was a yn3 in the admin building across the street from comops. I worked in personnel for a while then for captain feaster and captain ryan. I wont forget it either. |
| Name: | RMC Donald Mc Cormick (Ret) |
| E-mail address: | mariesmac@verizon.net |
| Comments: | WOW, did this site bring back a lot of memories. I had the greatest time in Sidi even though my wife and kids had their bags packed in case. The day we left Morocco there was a coup and we were held "hostage" at the airport with a lot of other servicemen and families. Our dog's brain was fried when they kept her in her cage, on a table out in the 105 degree heat. When I tried to give her water they put a gun in my face and said no no. Many good times in Tech Control. Worked closely with Fleet Tac because of the typical attitude of controllers. My last 30 days they put me in Fleet Tac to try and improve relations. Chief Lynch was my leader. I can't remember a lot of names anymore. Chief Warsing was a CT that I was friends with. |
| Name: | Harlan (Bud) Andreasen |
| E-mail address: | handreasen3@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I sitting at home scanning old photo’s of Morocco, and decided to take a break and do some web browsing, I came across this site and thought I place my two cents in. My name is Bud Andreasen I first arrived on station, early September 1976 I left in Nov of 77 I was a RM3. I had been banging my head trying to remember some names so here I go. I remember Barbara Fleitz., RM1 Law, Bob Boblitz, Chief Kidd (more later) Chief Cain, Doug Wahl, Paul Insing, Doc Ford, Mr. Murdock, CWO Potts and more will soon flood in as I write.
I did a tour in Iceland and meet my present wife Laurel there. When we left Iceland, we both received orders to Sidi Yahia. I arrived first and was quickly shipped to the transmitter site at Bouknadel. Laurel followed a few weeks later. While there we decided to go to Gibraltar and got married on Nov 4th 1976. (Jimmy Carter was just elected President) I worked the whole time at Bouknadel and never spend that much time at the main base at Sidi Yahia. Laurel and I move into town and lived in a small basement apartment. Our land lord lived upstairs and was in charge of one of the schools in town. Across the street lived the Chief of Police. I will say I did him and my landlord many a favor (Mostly buying them booze). I remember eating at many of the restaurants downtown and going to the night clubs. I never could get use to the guys dancing together, but that was a culture thing going on. While there Laurel became pregnant and we moved to the Naval Base in Kenitra. We lived in the old Chief’s housing near the airport. When I moved I bought an old 1971 Ford Torino from Chief Kidd, It ran ok but the radiator was shot! I remember placing eggs in it to plug up the many holes. I never went any where in that thing unless I had five gallons of water in the trunk. I recall the paper mill and the smells from it also. The Paper mill was owned by the Polish government I believe and every one there can remember the large assortment of antenna’s located on the roof of the factory. (Go figure) While there our only daughter was born and shortly after that Laurel was discharged. So she and Christina went back to the States. I stayed on at Bouknadel till the end of my tour. (Nov 77) I asked to stay till my enlistment ran out but, was told no, and received orders to May port FL. I remember the last few months there, myself and a guy named RM3 Hines was told to tear down the antennas. The Moroccan Antenna crew which was run by some old Frenchman (name escapes me) pulled all the copper cable from the underground runs. I remember being on watch when they sent two antenna crew members in the lower part of the T bldg to remove copper cable. (They were cutting it up using hack saws). One of them grasped the wrong cable and started cutting. He was hurt bad since he started cutting on a cable that was transmitting from a FRT 40 upstairs. Man what a noise that made… I believe the guy was killed. I also remember messing with the Marines and the dog handlers at night and driving around the antenna compound shooting rabbits from the front end of a truck using a 12G shotgun. One of the most exciting things was this ET3 (Can remember his name) got a Dear John letter. He came up to the transmitter site and climbed to the top of the 300’ antenna in the back of the bldg, and started yelling he was going to jump. We all were out there watching and waiting. I remember a few of the Marine Guards started yelling at him to do it. That stopped when the Marine Captain and Gunny arrived. We waited in suspends, but he finally was convince to come down and they took him away. During that time I remember my heart pounding when he threw his coat off. At that moment I thought he really jumped. I could go on and on but I need to close this. I am, retired from the Navy. I did twenty-four years and retired as a RMC. I presently work for Commander Submarine Pacific in Bremerton WA. Laurel works for the Bremerton Naval Hospital. Our daughter Christina is married with her own nine year old daughter. |
| Name: | Tony Madsen |
| E-mail address: | antonemadsen@netscape.net |
| Comments: | Arrived in Rabat 01/70 as a CTI3. Brought my wife over in June 70 and extended until I got an early out in March 72 Worked in the Commsta in Sidi living in Kenitra. Hard to believe that an apartment was only $25 per month. Worked in one of the foreign language units, made a lot of good friends. Managed to stay in touch with some until a few years ago. Have many pictures of the area and even more great memories.
Love the site, will be back. |
| Name: | Marcus Wilbanks |
| E-mail address: | mlw.usn@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Hello to all fellow NCS Morocco fans...
I just did a GOOGLE World Maps search and found Sidi Yahia on a satelite photo search. I'm not sure when the satelite picture was taken, recently I would suspect, but it is still there. I was at Sidi from 1/76 to about 7/77. I then transferred over to NTC to stay until NTC closed. I ended up leaving in 7/78. NTC sucked! Nothing like Sidi. Still think about my days at Sidi quite frequently. I worked out at the RCVR Site with Don-Don, then Pete Peterson. What a BLAST! Don-Don introduced me the downtown scene. I loved those last bus to town trips. I heard that he had passed away. Anybody know for sure? Anybody know the where about of Allen Sebastian? I would love to go back and see what the place looks like now. Anyone who has gone recently and has any experiences or advice to share please email me. DE CNL K |
| Name: | Debbie Williamson |
| E-mail address: | leden@zoominternet.net |
| Comments: | RM3 Debbie Williamson
Hi guys. Miss the h--- out of you. Some names I can remember, some not. Kip, Randy Palmer, Deno, Papa Joe, Little Joe, Don Don Suey!! Tallman...Look I can't remember all the names-- we are old you know. All you guys were and still are, my best time ever. That doesn't sound right. Out of the gutter. Reading the postings on this web site, I do remember some of the names. Would love to hear from my guys! Please e mail Still love ya all! HCMB Debbie |
| Name: | Jim Pandzik |
| E-mail address: | jim@pandzik.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.pandzik.com |
| Comments: | I was the last CTT sent there in the fall of '71. Did a lot of theatre stuff there, including directing the musical "Dames at Sea". Finally shipped off to Rota in '72, after the coup attempt to kill the King failed. This site sure brings back a lot of memories.
Jim Pandzik CDR, USNR-TAR, Ret. ...but still CTT2 at heart! |
| Name: | Mike Klein |
| E-mail address: | mikelein@juno.com |
| Comments: | My earliest memory of Port Lyautey was Christmas 1958. I was on the USS Tirante (SS 420) med-moored in the harbor of Marseille France. I got the HF ship/shore CW freqs out of JANAP 195 and tried to send out a Routine 500 plus group message. Lots of folks working ship/shore that night, and Morocco told me; "QRY-15 (your turn is 15)". I thought I would be there all night, so I started looking for other stations. Greece was just as busing as Port Lyautey, After copying the next broadcast, I listened to Morocco and Greece again, and they were still busy. While tuning around and listening for other stations, The COMMSTA at Balboa, Canal Zone was dead quiet, so I gave them a call - boom QRY-1. Of course, then I couldn't send fast enough for this guy. After every hundred groups, looking for a QSL, he would roger and then tell me QRQ, QRQ (Send faster). I wasn't a speed key operator, and by the time I was finished my right wrist was crippled - well, it just felt like it. |
| Name: | dan hayden |
| E-mail address: | inlimbo |
| Comments: | hey joe.....nice to hear from you...i talked to F R Coy
last weekend...he is in the process of moving to San Antonio from Houston so things are busy on his end.. but had a good talk and let his know about the web site.. my internet is being changed to a sky based link so Im sending from work.....later dh |
| Name: | Charlie Jordan |
| E-mail address: | chahj2@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | NCF Sidi Yahia 1958-1959 good friends with Joe Gregurich both of us RM3. Comm Center work (routing/tty flt bcst/CW bcst/ship to shore/MUX with comsixflt-GFG-GYZ). Barracks living very hot but comfortable in cubicles. This is my second visit to the site and it is great to see others still signing in and makes for terrific reading. Keep up the good job. I just remembered Joyce who worked at USO center in downtown Kenitra. Other stories but not appropriate to place on this site. |
| Name: | Charlie Jordan |
| E-mail address: | chahj2@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | NCF Sidi Yahia 1958-1959 good friends with Joe Gregurich both of us RM3. Comm Center work (routing/tty flt bcst/CW bcst/ship to shore/MUX with comsixflt-GFG-GYZ). Barracks living very hot but comfortable in cubicles. This is my second visit to the site and it is great to see others still signing in and makes for terrific reading. Keep up the good job. I just remembered Joyce who worked at USO center in downtown Kenitra. Other stories but not appropriate to place on this site. |
| Name: | Jim Wilson |
| E-mail address: | james.wilson16@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Just updating my e-mail address. Retired from Robert Bosch Tool Corp in July after 33 1/2 years. Time to do other things.
I was stationed in Sidi Yahia (CTR3)from Dec. of '68 through March of 70 and have kept in touch with several shipmates in Bravo section. We have a reunion scheduled for mid-Sept in MI. Dave Ziegler(Ziggy) is putting the reunion on this year. Can't wait to see friends again. Regards, Jim |
| Name: | John Snyder |
| E-mail address: | neebishisland@aol.com |
| Comments: | I was in Morocco from 69-71 and John Lee I don't remember you but if you were there the summer of 70 I bet you remember the 4th of July party we had. It was like 127 degrees and I think the hottest day I remember. |
| Name: | Per John Lee |
| E-mail address: | cindylee23@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I believe I left a comment on this site several years ago, probably in the early part of the 2000's but things need updating. I was an ET at Sidi from 67-70. Worked in the basement changing mods and demods among other things. It would be great to hear from anyone from that era. My wife Cindy and I have many memories of our time there. Also many have begun to fade so any refreshers would be greatly appreciated!
|
| Name: | debra chestnut |
| E-mail address: | chestnut_3@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | my father Paul Chestnut was in Sidi Yahia 1969 - 1970. I do not know much about your base, We lived in Kenitra. My sister and I attended high school and my younger sister elementary school.
I was 16 at the time, I remember stepping off the plane, and as we were riding down the road to my unknown destination, I felt as if we had gone through a time machine, landing in post Biblical times. Daddy, is alive and well, very good health, he is interested in hearing from others from days gone by. Nice site. Debbie |
| Name: | Norman S. Landino |
| E-mail address: | pfs.norm@juno.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at Sidi Yahia - Aug 70 - Aug 72. Great tour, Moroccans were fantastic people. Traveled the country over - Ifrane, Azrou, Marrakesh, Fez, Meknes and more. Lived in Kenitra the whole time. Houseboy Larabi became a close friend and when I returned in 1979 reuntied with him. Did alot of sports officiating in Morocco, both on and off the base. Does anyone remember Doris & Amen Joudar? She was a school teacher at NTC and he was an intreprater at the American Embassy in Rabat. I referred basketball with him. I brought him on the base to referee and he took me in the community to call games - what an experience. Sidi had some great basketball teams with the likes of Super Joe Galloway and Ron Daniels. Ron almost made the pros - ABA. CDR Tettlebach was the head of NSG and CTAC Fritz was the Admin chief. One of my favorite tours. Hope to get back there sometime in the future. |
| Name: | Joe Franzen |
| E-mail address: | chrgr1joe@aol.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.angelfire.com/nj3/navcomstamorocco/ |
| Comments: | Hi Dan,
Emailed you but not reply. Maybe a spam filter grabbed it? Great to hear from you. Glad you stayed in touch with a bunch of the others. Hoping to hear from them also. take care, Joe Franzen |
| Name: | Dan Hayden |
| E-mail address: | dmhayden@frys.com |
| Comments: | 1-70--10-71..Supervisor DCS Relay..f.r.Coy was svc clerk
12 South..rode 650 Triumph..rode a lot w/ Coy ..trips south w/ Lt Dumont-Oh the memories!!! Returned w/ wife 2007-rented car for three wks saw a lot of what I missed the first go round--saw Greg Hall in NY before flt to maroc good to visit and still communicate. must call coy in Houston.Joe B...Dusty M. Jim Owens Tom S.[mind is weak] ??Billie Odom fm Steens Missippi, He drank the Portugiese wine, Very badly I remember...Will add later.tks Joe from Broadcast..I remember u.......dan |
| Name: | Dan Hayden |
| E-mail address: | dmhayden@frys.com |
| Comments: | 1-70--10-71..Supervisor DCS Relay..f.r.Coy was svc clerk
12 South..rode 650 Triumph..rode a lot w/ Coy ..trips south w/ Lt Dumont-Oh the memories!!! Returned w/ wife 2007-rented car for three wks saw a lot of what I missed the first go round--saw Greg Hall in NY before flt to maroc good to visit and still communicate. must call coy in Houston.Joe B...Dusty M. Jim Owens Tom S.[mind is weak] ??Billie Odom fm Steens Missippi, He drank the Portugiese wine, Very badly I remember...Will add later.tks Joe from Broadcast..I remember u.......dan |
| Name: | John Barstow |
| E-mail address: | jnbarstow@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Much the same experience as Joe. Bewilderment at all the new sights and sounds of Morocco. I turned nineteen during the Cuban Missle Crisis of 1962 and spent the thirteen days of that event in the Comm Shack. I wasn't long in Sidi Yahia, however, as I got orders (Need Of The Navy) to the island of Cyprus where I passed the next fourteen months ('62-64). We were evacuated to Karamursel, Turkey (Feb '64) during the civil war on the island. I got TAD to the 6th fleet on the F.D. Roosevelt for a Med cruise and then back to Det. 28 in Karamursel until the end of my enlistment. I'm glad things turned out as mentioned above, although I would have liked to get to know that part of Morocco if I had more time there. My very best to all. It's good to find a site where people can relate to your own memories. |
| Name: | francis j dunn |
| E-mail address: | dunnfj@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at naccomsta morocco from feb 69 - may 70. |
| Name: | Ed Burke |
| E-mail address: | burkesnh@msn.com |
| Comments: | Congratulations on a great site. It sure has brought back a lot of thoughts, smells and sounds. I was a CYN3 stationed at Sidi from 1969 to 1970. Lived "downtown" in Kenitra and commuted to work. My wife Mary worked on Sidi for Special Service under Ltjg Dumont. I worked in Tech Control. We enjoyed Morocco and did a lot of travelling there. Bought our first "new" car a VW from Ray Sapriel in Kenitra. I remember shopping at the base in Kenitra. Waiting for the supply ship to arrive. I remember having to get our drinking water from a spigot outside of the exchage. Buying breard from the bread store downtown. Buying gas on base for .25 cents p/gallon. The closeness of everyone living off base etc. I like every one else who posts things remember how good the "brochettes" were and our fatima making mint tea. I could write so much more, maybe another time. I'd like to get in touch with a friend from then; Frank Perez who was from San Antonio Tx we both came to Morocco from the USS Annapolis AGMR-1 which we put out of commission in Philadelphia. I remember working for RMCM B. Josephson, Chief Charlie Williams, CWO Phil Wade. Once again a great site that has brought back many good memories. Thanks, Ed Burke |
| Name: | Wm Nakonechny CTM2 |
| E-mail address: | WMNAKO@AOL.COM |
| Comments: | Spent almost 18 months there not the nicest place to be..
Spent the last part of active duty in Winter Harbor much much better. |
| Name: | Joe Kirkwood |
| E-mail address: | KIRK0924@JUNO.COM |
| Comments: | I was stationed at Navcommsta Sidi Yahia from May 1966 to August 1967. I worked in the message center. I had the same thougths when I flew into Rabat as Joe Franzen did.
I really loved my time in Morocco. Developed a lot of friendships. Most of my memories are good ones. I did not know it at the then, but it was one of the better times in my life. I arrived on Memorial Day. There was an outdoor party in progresss. I dropped my sea bag and was reaching for an ice cold beer in this cement tank within minutes. I can remember a lot of the faces but I can no longer put a name to them. Here are some of the guys I remember and the State I believe they were from: Paul Larson NC Brian Becker CA Ray Collins FL "Stinger" MD Jim Beerman MD Mike Shannon CA Weatherwax MI Ray Amyotte MI Len Singer MI Mike Shannon CA Ulrich PA Plaisance LA Maurice RM2 Coutcher RM1 DeMuth RMC Dragowitz LTJG Ironically, there was a guy stationed there who was from Morocco, Indiana. Larry Harwood left a note at this site. I remember him too. Here are some events, places & thoughts; Roger Moss's boxing match with a Marine (ring was set up) paper factory and the different smells The "morocs" // diarrhea Bus and train rides; the outdoor theatre; One eyed Jackie, Latifa and the Continental Bar Pinochle and poker. Very good poker players. Poor Richards nite. On Wednesday's 20 cents for Falstaff, Pfeiffer, Blatz and Drewreys. The seven day war in June 67. The flash messages and the attack on the USS Liberty. Two eves, two mids, two days and 48 off (most of the time) The U.S. embassy in Rabat. The military was welcome. Some guys were on NSU pills for vd. Flag football. Com ops alpha, bravo, marines etc. Staying all nite in Kenitra. Waking up with a hangover and unable to drink the water there. Here have a coke! Abdullah charging $2.00 for washing and ironing clothes at the barracks. After leaving Morocco, I was assigned to the USS Independence CVA 62. The ship was in the last two months of a long dry dock period. We soon were in Guantanamo for exercises. Then we went on a long Med Cruise and eventually a NATO cruise before being discharged in October 69. I went back to my home town and have lived there ever since. I enjoyed the site. It brings back a lot of good memories. If you remember me or any of the guys I listed above send me an e-mail or leave a note at Dreambook. Thanks Joe for creating this site. |
| Name: | Carl Cartledge |
| E-mail address: | cmcartledge@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Arrived at Sidi July 1968 as YN2 from PACOM ELINT Center, Fuchu Japan. Although saddened to see so much poverty, had fantastic 14 months there. Stationed in Admin Bldg, was Captain (Feaster's) Yeoman, then worked as reenlistment yeoman in Personnel, and finally as Officer Record's Yeoman. Wish I could remember all the friends I made but a few name I remember were Frank Heine from Baltimore, Jim Hannon from Houston, Paul Tupa from midwest, Junior Cooley from Spartanburg, Dave Willis from Nevada, Randy Rust from Texas, Ben Obrist from Kansas, Fred (?), the legal yeoman,Ginny, dependent of a lieutenant who had us over for Thansgiving, Lt. Garcellano from Personnel Office, Chief Villaneuva who would have us over to his home in Kenitra for brouchettes and to listen to American football, YN1 Curtis (?)who drove a Cougar, and other friends whose names escape me. Loved trips to Rabat, Cas, Fez, Tangier, and Gibraltar. Also remember a CT3 whose last name was "Strange" and who played golf in Kenitra every weekend (any relation to Curtis Strange??). Remember Moroccan wine with sand in bottom of bottle, dancing at The Fleet, being decked by a Moroccan barowner with my mouth got the best of me, and tons of other stuff. After 1969, left Navy, used GI bill to get Masters and retired from VA in 2000 as counseling psychologist working in voc rehab in Louisville. Now living in Athens GA. |
| Name: | Charles Smart |
| E-mail address: | csmart3@sc.rr.com |
| Comments: | Arrived NCS MOROCCO July 63 departed Feb 65. Worked in msg center . Played a little softball while i was there. I remember RM2 PAPPY GRAHAM AND RM1 ELM A BIG INDIAN THAT PITCHED FOR US.I remember being in base theatre when we got the news about President Kennedy being killed. I also remember being caaught up town after 12pm celebrating making RM3.That was a long two weeks of restrictions and extra duty.There are so many people i cannot remember their names. Time and memory is sure going fast. I remember the Fleet Reserve Club and the good times. RM2 Jones that would bring his little boy to the club and we would keep him supplied with cokes while we drank something a little stronger. I really enjoyed my tour at NCS. Wish i had kept a lot more account of people that wasthere with me.I left NCS Morocco in Feb 65 and went to U.S.S. Macdonough DLG8. Discharged Oct 66. Joined the reserves for a few years and did a four year tour in South Carolina National Guard. I am retired now living in little town about 10 miles north of Myrtle Beach S.C. i HAVE HAD A GOOD LIFE .GOD HAS BEEN GOOD. |
| Name: | Cheryl Crowther Luck |
| E-mail address: | luck.cheryl@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed in Morocco as a Postal Clerk at Bouknadel from Aug 75 to Dec 76 It was a great time of growing up. I married RM3 Paul Luck at the Rock of Gibraltar in Sep of 76.
We were on the Costa Del Sol in Spain vacationing on 9/11/2001. A few days later we went into Morocco via Gibraltar and Tangier. We caught the Marrakech Express to Marrakech. It was a city filled with many memories. We stopped off in Kenitra on the way back to Tangier. It had changed in so many ways and was strikingly industrialized. We traveled to the RTF in Bouknadel via the beach. It was as beautiful as ever but the beach was incredibly filthy. When we arrived at the gate at Bouknadel our passports were confiscated for around 30 minutes. Needless to say the reception was not welcoming and our Taxi driver had unkind words from the officials there. We stayed downtown in Kenitra at the Memora Hotel overnight.........and got incredibly sick. We actually were happy to leave the country. The climate just a few days after 9/11 was not welcoming except amongst the educated. Morocco does bring back many splendid memories and it is a period of my life I treasure with pleasure. |
| Name: | CTO1 Mark Regan |
| E-mail address: | mark_t_regan@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Hi. I was stationed at NSGA Sidi Yahia for one year, from 1972 to 1973. The first six months I worked in the comm center. Then I was transferred to special services as they started the process of closing the comm center down.
Mark T. Regan, CTO1, USNR-Ret. 1969-1991 |
| Name: | Randy Singhas |
| E-mail address: | rsinghas@rivnet.net |
| Comments: | I was stationed at NAVCOMSTA Sidi Yahia fm 1969-1970. My son was born there. Your site is great! Brings back a lot of memories! |
| Name: | ronjohansen ron |
| E-mail address: | ronjohansen@q.com |
| Comments: | Forgot to mention we were all Radiomen in Bravo section
or was it Alfa under Chief Gilmore and Ensign Wescott. |
| Name: | ron johansen |
| E-mail address: | ronjohansen@q.com |
| Comments: | Just had our 2nd reunion at Plattsburg Mo. Met all the
attendees on this site 2 yrs ago. Jack Forslund 5/60-9/61 Paul Lukas 3/60-8/61 John Brennie 7/60-1/62 Ed Gunther 10/59-6/61 and myself 4/60 - 5/62 . Had a good reunion as this was the second we remembered alot more good stuff. Will keep up the tradition and thanks to ur site we met each other again and it was just like it was yesterday. Thanks again dreambook. |
| Name: | Lee A. Hallman |
| E-mail address: | lahusn@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
XO July'75 - Aug '77 |
| Name: | Howard (Howie) Dahill |
| E-mail address: | hdahill@tampabay.rr.com |
| Comments: | Just stopped back by this site to look at the new comments and review the old ones. Had a great time in Morocco from 68-70. Thanks for the flash-backs |
| Name: | Bernie Tackett |
| E-mail address: | agesmusic@msn.com |
| Comments: | I was siationed at Marine Barracks, Sidi Hahia Morocco in 1968. I have been trying to find a couple of friends of mine that I was staioned with.I hope this site may help me. Thanks |
| Name: | Jim Wilson |
| E-mail address: | j.wilson@craneware.com |
| Comments: | Thanks for the memories |
| Name: | Steve Hackney |
| E-mail address: | Harleymarine@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Hello this is a great site I found this just surfing I was in Sidi from Aug. 1975 thru July 1977 met alot of great folks and this bring back alot of great memories I was a dog Handler thereif anyone remembers e-mail me great times |
| Name: | Merle Wagner |
| E-mail address: | merlewagner@roadrunner.com |
| Comments: | I was a tech rep for Naval System HQ. Stayed awhile in Morocco training personnel on the AN/FRR-60 receivers. This was in 64. Biggest event while there was being involved in an auto accident. 2 officers (can't remember names) and myself left the O club and decided to go into town to a local bar. Met a semi coming the other way and it ran over the front end. Of course I was the only one injured. A local stopped and took me back to the base. I ended up in the infirmary while the doctor sewed me up. Had many stitches under my eye. Still have the scar today to remind me. |
| Name: | Melanie and Art Bennett |
| E-mail address: | melart@q.com |
| Comments: | Greeting to all from Salem OR.
Art and I arrived at Sidi from Skaggs Island in late June of 68..Art was 2 second class T brancher and made 1st class in January after we got there.. I have read this web site a dozen or more times and such good memories of people we met and enjoyed being around..Bravo section, Jack Lewis, Ken Meize, John Murphy,also Chief Jim Greer, and so many more..A dog named Buster who loved his Shiltz beer like the guys did.. Shoping at the Marche in Kentri , the man who called the faithfull to prayer at the mosque behind our apartment.Seeing a country that looked like something out of the bible and so much more..For me a shy native Napa Ca gal it was huge growing expierence.. We left in late may of 70 for Pensacola and then NavCom St Wahiawa Hi..Finally retiring in 76 and going home to Napa. Art sold insurance until we fully retired in 99 and then did lots of traveling..Now we call Salem home and love it. Art is still playing at Sears part-time, I work in the yard and at volunteer at a public garden..We share our home with two cocker spaniels.. Enough said.. Thanks for the memories The Bennetts, Art amd Melanie |
| Name: | Melanie and Art Bennett |
| E-mail address: | melart@q.com |
| Comments: | Greeting to all from Salem OR.
Art and I arrived at Sidi from Skaggs Island in late June of 68..Art was 2 second class T brancher and made 1st class in January after we got there.. I have read this web site a dozen or more times and such good memories of people we met and enjoyed being around..Bravo section, Jack Lewis, Ken Meize, John Murphy,also Chief Jim Greer, and so many more..A dog named Buster who loved his Shiltz beer like the guys did.. Shoping at the Marche in Kentri , the man who called the faithfull to prayer at the mosque behind our apartment.Seeing a country that looked like something out of the bible and so much more..For me a shy native Napa Ca gal it was huge growing expierence.. We left in late may of 70 for Pensacola and then NavCom St Wahiawa Hi..Finally retiring in 76 and going home to Napa. Art sold insurance until we fully retired in 99 and then did lots of traveling..Now we call Salem home and love it. Art is still playing at Sears part-time, I work in the yard and at volunteer at a public garden..We share our home with two cocker spaniels.. Enough said.. Thanks for the memories The Bennetts, Art amd Melanie |
| Name: | Wain Groves |
| E-mail address: | popgrovs@charter.net |
| Comments: | Best time of my life! Arrived Sidi Yahia Nov 1962. Left April 1964. Remember when JFK was killed. We were in the movie theater waiting for the movie to start. The movie was cancelled because JFK was killed. We all went to EM Club. The talk was about what would happen next. Scary time then. The bus from the base would drop us off at a hotel. Wish I could remember the name of it. Anyone know? We used to go to the Tri-Angle Club. You could get a haircut, steak and get drunk at that place. Used to be a British band called The Continentals. Put me in mind of ABBA.
Great site. Sure brought back great memories. If any of you guys remember me, give me a shout. Wain |
| Name: | Wain Groves |
| E-mail address: | popgrovs@charter.net |
| Comments: | Best time of my life! Arrived Sidi Yahia Nov 1962 |
| Name: | Lou |
| E-mail address: | mglewissr1124@roadrunner.com |
| Comments: | Was an ET2 stationed at Kenitra from July 70-November 71. Worked at Ground Electronics. Left there in 71 and returned to Vietnam as part of the Naval Advisory Group. After that war was cancelled I returned to Morocco and was stationed at Bouk from mid 73 to mid 76. Was a transmitter teck and lived in Kenitra in various houses. Remember the Fleet Club and Jack's Bar. That is where the buses stopped for pickup to go to Sidi and Bouk. Will come back with more details. |
| Name: | Lou |
| E-mail address: | mglewissr1124@roadrunner.com |
| Comments: | Was an ET2 stationed at Kenitra from July 70-November 71. Worked at Ground Electronics. Left there in 71 and returned to Vietnam as part of the Naval Advisory Group. After that war was cancelled I returned to Morocco and was stationed at Bouk from mid 73 to mid 76. Was a transmitter teck and lived in Kenitra in various houses. Remember the Fleet Club and Jack's Bar. That is where the buses stopped for pickup to go to Sidi and Bouk. Will come back with more details. |
| Name: | Mark E Carl RM3 |
| E-mail address: | MCARL99@verizon.net |
| Comments: | I was at Sidi Yahia from summer 65-66. In the message center and then the control room, |
| Name: | Gilbert Dunk |
| E-mail address: | gdunk@buffalo.com |
| Comments: | I served at Marine Baracks, Kenitra, Morocco from 1965-66. |
| Name: | Steve Hope |
| E-mail address: | Steve.Hope@CIANCenter.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://ciancenter.com |
| Comments: | Larry, et al - I sent you the 12 pix of "Pajama Game". I also found one of the house boys, the one you mentioned was Ahmed. |
| Name: | Roger Schofield |
| E-mail address: | rlschofield@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | After leaving Vietnam I served at Navcommsta Sidi Yahia 1968-1969. Great Duty! Many fond memories of my buddies and experiences. Found some good Bass fishing at Lake Romni(?). I would be pleased to hear from any of the guys from that time. I am in touch with Joe Franzen and have heard from Roger Whitehouse and Larry Daniels. I remember that one of the bartenders at the NCO club had bird dogs and took me chucker hunting in the mountains. Also remeber going dove & snipe hunting near the base. I'd be pleased to hear from any of the guys. |
| Name: | Barbara (Fleitz) Harrington |
| E-mail address: | Barbara.Harrington@navy.mil |
| Comments: | I was stationed at Sidi Yahia from Jan 76 - Nov 77. Went there as a PNSN left as a PN2. I was 20 years old when I arrived and was in shock when I got off the plane; was like stepping back in time 200 years. There's hardly a few days gone by that I don't remember Morocco and all the good times I had. It was over 30 years ago but I have a very vivid memory of friends, all the places we went and saw and things we did together. I remember Denise Tate, Jim Irish, Dan Coy, Tanya Endrina, "Dink" Lindstrom and many others. Mr. Farley who was the Admin Officer at the Personnel Office lives just a few blocks away from us here in Norfolk, VA. "Dink" and Michael Trujillo live here too. I have remarried since I was in Morocco. Dale Harrington (who was stationed there from Jan 76 till Apr 77) and I married in 1979. We have two daughters Susan 26 years old and Amanda 24 years old. We have a new granddaughter who is nine months old named Abigail. Anyone who remembers me or Dale.. email me when you have time. This is a great website!!! |
| Name: | Bill Hermes aka Herkamoe |
| E-mail address: | whermes@iowatelecom.net |
| Comments: | RM3/RM4 Stationed in Morocco 1971 to 1974(July) worked in Cams. Ski was my Chief in Cams. Hung with Wayne G Erickson, Roger k Smith, Gus (Monte)Gustafson, Dan Martin, Steve (Tater) Taylor, Steve Shrimpshire, Jim Davis. Lived in town. Enjoyed my stay and remember all the bar scenes and travel down into the desert, and every place North, West and south. Played Soft ball and foot ball the whole time I was there. Now live in Iowa and have for the past 34 years. Forgot a lot of the other names we all hung with, this makes me want to get the books out and start looking up names. |
| Name: | Barbara (Fleitz) Harrington |
| E-mail address: | Barbara.Harrington@navy.mil |
| Comments: | I was station at Sidi Yahia Jan 76 - Nov 77. I was a PN3. I was married to Lou Fleitz at the time. Since then we divorced and I married RM3 Dale Harrington who was also stationed in Morocco and worked at the receiver site. We now are grandparents to a beautiful bay girl named Abigail. Our daughters are 26 and 24 years old. Mr. Farley who was the Admin officer lives down the street from us here in Norfolk, VA. Dale retired as a ITCM after 30 years. He works for Genral Dynamics now as a contractor. I did 8 years active duty and seperated as a PN1. I work at PSD Norfolk and have been for almost 20 years now. I went in the USNR in 1998 and was a drilling reservist for 6 years. Would love to hear from anyone stationed in Sidi Yahia from 76 till the base closed. I helped close the base; no fun. The last few of us worked very hard and played hard. I always think about Morocco; it was a very unique place. |
| Name: | ronjohansen |
| E-mail address: | ronjohansen@q.com |
| Comments: | new email address |
| Name: | Richard Olson (Ole) |
| E-mail address: | oletycka@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at NCS Sidi Yahia from Jun 65 - Oct 67, I was a RM3 and worked in the message center and relay center.
I have many good memories of my tour in Morocco, I met many good people there, Bill Stout,Ron Berg, Larry Harwood, Ray Collns, Rudy Kaupa, Roger Moss, Larry Manthe, just to name a few. It would be fun to have a reunion sometime. |
| Name: | Art Williams |
| E-mail address: | arw@seligsealing.com |
| Comments: | I was an Air Force dependent stationed at Sidi Slimane AFB. I have in my possession a photo ablum of Navy Training Command Public Works Seabees at Sidi Yahia from around 1975 to 1977. It consists of 8x10 B/W photos showing award and recognition ceremonies. Banquets, dances, football trophy awards, civilian Moroccans, volley ball team, and various other activities. Curious to know if anybody served there during this time period? |
| Name: | Raymond E. Steckman |
| E-mail address: | raysteckman@verizon.net |
| Comments: | I had the pleasure of being stationed twice in Morocco!!
Will add more info later. |
| Name: | Art "IPPY" Ippolito |
| E-mail address: | ippy01@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | Hello to all....
Was intorduced to NHY back in 56 when I arrived at NST (Londonderry) as a tech controller. Many many found memories of "SIDI". Remember the help Bobby James, Anderson, Coleman, Danny Grant and others when I first was introduced to the KO-5 (the friggin monster). It was fun back then. Nothing like today where so many electronic devices do the deciding for ya. Bk then ya needed to know the freqs, mitters and antennas. I miss those days and wish I cud turn the clock bk. Left the military in 80 at RMCM and STILL miss it. Thin k Olehausen and Fury were also at that site. Have gud a wun....great to be able to write inna book !!!! Regards to all....../Ipp |
| Name: | Johnny Shelton |
| E-mail address: | drypenguin@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was one of the 15-month radiomen. March 1967 to June 1968. I saw my 20th and 21st birthdays and fell in love with experiencing other cultures. Saw all the major cities and skied Mittschlaffen. Visited Happy Valley, Volubillis, and saw the nightlife of Casablanca and Rabat regularly. For a naive kid from Texas City this was a wonderful eye opener. I never will understand the "base hackers". Rode first class on the Merrakesh Express because it was so cheep and so cool. Met so many great locals and military buds. Became friend with our houseboy and was invited to his wedding. The fleet club became my second home.
I can never thank enough all the sailors stationed there helped me grow up safely and wiser for the experiences. |
| Name: | Ken Painter |
| E-mail address: | SSgtKPainter@msn.colm |
| Comments: | I was one of the Marines that came over TAD from 2nd Radio Bn. Was there in 68 for 6 mo and again in 69 for 6 mo. Got to love it. Lot of good memories, the play "Witness for the Prosecution", running the Bingo and the Theater. lots of fun, and it kept me busy. |
| Name: | Michael Maddox |
| E-mail address: | mrmadox1@netzero.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at NavComSta Morocco from mid January 1970, until mid January 1971. I was an RMSN on duty at the Message Center, working in the actual Message Center on the first floor, and also in Tech Control in the basement. I had a Top Secret crypto clearance, until I was busted for possession of marijuana in the fall. After my captain's mass, I was attached to the master-at-arms. I shipped out to the Brooklyn shipyards for admin processing mid-January 1971. Wish I had taken more photos(I have next to none), spent more money on souvenirs instead of whores, booze, and pot. I remember we were restricted from entering the nearby town of Sidi Yahia, because of the threat of Soviet agents that might hangout there. There was a papermill across the road supposedly built by the Hungarians, that contained a Soviet communications listening post. I had a great time there and really enjoyed my job, but there was just too many "beggars" and not enough "lifers" or "short-timers" like myself. I operated the Autovon switchboard and was a voice radio operator. Our call sign was "fanfare". Can't remember the names of many people I served with there. It was an experience in my life that I will never forget! |
| Name: | Charles Jemeyson |
| E-mail address: | cjemeyson@satx.rr.com |
| Comments: | I was with NavSecGrp 1958-1959 at Sidi Yahia. Good memories! |
| Name: | Larry Daniels |
| E-mail address: | larry_daniels@verizon.net |
| Comments: | My initial entry in your Dreambook was on 25 Aug 2007. The purpose of this email is to register my new email address.
Does anyone know the whereabouts of Roger Schofield? Roger was one of the supervisors in FltTacRelay. Upon arrival at NCS Morocco I was initially assigned to FltTacRelay, but did most of my tour in CAMS. I departed NCS Morocco in Aug 69' and went to new construction, USS W.S. SIMS (DE 1059) homeported in Mayport, FL. Roger was a good leader and I've often wondered how the remainder of his career went, and what he may be doing these days. Larry Daniels NCS Morocco (1968-1969) LDO Ret |
| Name: | Don Kortsehl |
| E-mail address: | dkortsehl@cox.net |
| Comments: | I was at NCS SIDI YAHIA from 1971-1975. |
| Name: | Scott Brown |
| E-mail address: | rscottbrown@inbox.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at 1st Guard Company located at
Lattitude - 34° 8'40.70"N Longitude - 6°39'11.08"W You can look this up on goole earth if you are interested. I was a Marine that basically ran the reactionary forces and Marine guard there. Of course this running of the guard was not entirely my responsibility I did do a large portion of it. What I remember mostly about this place was the road that ran around the antenna field. I use to run this 3 times day every day in about 23 minutes or less at times depending on the conditions. I remember Snooze, PJ Lamberson, Herm and many other Marines and Seabees that were there from 77-79. If anyone looks this base up on Google and sends me an email letting me know what the heck the property is located directly SE of this place I would truly appreciate it. Spending nearly 2 years here and never knowing this other place was even there is concerning to me. Thank you, Scott Brown |
| Name: | John Snyder |
| E-mail address: | neebishisland@aol.com |
| Comments: | I posted here maybe a year or longer ago. I got to Morocco in Nov of 69 and stayed till Feb 0f 71. Worked most of the time in the relay section. I lived and hung out with Dusty Meyers, Johnny Morris, Eddie Flake, Jerry Faulkner just to name a few. Traveled lots and did a lot of nights in town but the funny thing is I can only remember the name of one bar, The American Bar. Hows about some replys back with the names of some others. Anyone remember me or want to talk about the good old Moroc days give me an email.... John |
| Name: | Jim Pinkham |
| E-mail address: | jpinkham335@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Was an ET at Sidi from 72-75 working at the Tropo site. It saddens me that I can't remember too many of the names of the great people I lived and worked with but I do remember our site mascot Black Dog. Just a mutt that lived on our compound and lived off roach coach hot dogs. One of the Marine guard dogs took part of his ear. We called him Blackie or Black Dog and the day he died we had a little memorial for him and made a nice headstone. I remember a lot of softball, bowling with the manual pinsetters, the club, waiting for albums to show up at the "exchange", and changing the aircraft warning lights on the 300' microwave tower...what a site that was. I do remember Dennis Ice the engine guy that tore down and completely rebuilt our diesel backup generators in what had to be record time. And then there was Murphy the postal clerk. Ran into him a few years later when I was stationed in Hawaii. He retired there and I just happened to see him on the street one day...small world. I bought a Peugot 504 from Larry Bridegam who had bought it off someone before him and I sold to someone else when I left. That was one fun car, 4-speed on the column and it knew it's own way back from Kenitra in the middle of the night, if you know what I mean. One night we all learned the importance of having oil in the engine. I'll have to post again when names start coming back to me. I'm glad I came across this site. Thanks! |
| Name: | Albert York |
| E-mail address: | bad-louie@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Just found this website........Was stationed in Sidi Yahia during the sixtys............Was RM3.........and worked at the commsta in crypto.......Dont remember names but if anyone on this site recalls mine please contact me at my address. |
| Name: | Don Rodgers |
| E-mail address: | DR61240@embarqmail.com |
| Comments: | I arrived at Navcommsta Morocco in January 1969 and left January 1971. The return trip was great my family and I caught the Italian Line ship Rafaello in Algiceras Spain and crossed the Atlantic in style. We landed in New York, I think it was about a 10 day trip. I worked in the message center for a short time then took over the Teletype Repair Center. I was RMC during my tour, and I believe six RM1's working for me. We had a great shop. My lead PO was RM1 Walker, I also remember RM1 Jim Orr and his wife Louise. There were some great times there. Never have been able to make the brouchettes like we had there. Ah yes Brouchettes and San Gria. Lots of parties, good people and good memories. |
| Name: | RMC Mc Cormick (Ret) |
| E-mail address: | mariesmac@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Served at NCS Morocco from 1971-1973 and loved every minute of it. Except that is for the Surroc's and the smell from the Paper factory. Got a lot of laughs from the Orange trucks overturned. Went from Morocco to Puerto Rico and could not beleive it when Concurrent travel was turned down because the Navy said Puerto Rico was considered a dangerous place to be! WOW I think they shuld have sent the detailer, YNCS White, to Maroc. Worked with Chief Lynch in Tech Control. Can't think of any ohers. Had a great time. Remember waiting at the Px days for the ships to come in. |
| Name: | RMC Mc Cormick (Ret) |
| E-mail address: | mariesmac@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Served at NCS Morocco from 1971-1973 and loved every minute of it. Except that is for the Surroc's and the smell from the Paper factory. Got a lot of laughs from the Orange trucks overturned. Went from Morocco to Puerto Rico and could not beleive it when Concurrent travel was turned down because the Navy said Puerto Rico was considered a dangerous place to be! WOW I think they shuld have sent the detailer, YNCS White, to Maroc. |
| Name: | Tom Gingerella |
| E-mail address: | gingerella@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Hi out there,
I graduated RM "A" school Norfolk spring of 1961 and went to Sidi Yahia for 18 months. Sorry can't remember much of dates or names, Bill Camper or Camp and a Tom Stout or Strout or something like that come to mind. Enjoyed this site and had many GOOD times there. Nice job |
| Name: | Jack Schornick |
| E-mail address: | Jackglenda66@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | Hello, my name is Jack Schornick and since I found this website this morning, I have been flooded with memories of the best duty station ever. Sidi Yahia was the best!. The people I met in Morocco were the most hospitable. I was there for 34 months. I’m trying to remember when I was stationed there. I think I was there from Mar ’71 to Jan ’74. When I first got there I was an E3 and lived in the barracks and I’m gonna try and list the names of some people that I rubbed shoulders with. I was an E3 electrician that worked in Public Works. The 2 Moroccans that worked in the Electric shop were Bouchta Ben Larabia and Mohammed Ben Mohammed Ben Bihi. Bouchta lived in Kenitra and Ben lived in Sidi Yahia. I think a 2nd Class named Foster (he married an Officers daughter) was at that time in charge of the Elec. Shop. Gus Gushlaw worked as an EO or a CM, Fish was a mechanic and he was married. For years I had a picture I drew of Gus Gushlaw until Hurricane Katrina destroyed every piece of anything I ever owned. Who else? Lee Foley, drove a Yellow Triumph Motorcycle and worked the base gas station, Klaus Michael Schmidt (wire rim glasses), born in Germany and fluent was also an electrician at PW, Dennis Ice, we called him MuleBoy for reasons I won’t go into, Goldie Davis an E6 or 7 Communication Marine, Don Brown?, married to a French Girl. He was a Lt. or Capt. In the Comm Marines.
I went to Morocco single and left with a French wife named Dominique Christianne Gabrielle Bouvier, born in Marseille but raised in Kenitra and Casablanca. We lived in downtown Kenitra after we married. We are no longer married. Knew a guy that married a Jewish girl. His name was Hawes Amos or Amos Hawes, he was, I believe from Gulfport, MS. Her name was Fabianne. I lived in Bay St. Louis, MS, until “Katrina” destroyed 2 homes that Glenda, my wife, and I owned and an Antique Mall. We’re rebuilding and will be returning soon to Bay St. Louis. Now, back to ancient history. The place to see and be seen if you were Military in Kenitra was the “American Bar” downtown. It was run by a Frenchman. I can’t remember his name, (maybe Phillip?). A huge Black Guy named Big John ran the EM Club at Sidi Yahia. I believe he was retired Air Force and may have managed the clubs at Sidi Slimane as well, can’t remember. He would bring a busload of secretarial students from Rabat to the EM club at Sidi Yahia just about every other week on Fridays. We would have someone to dance with and they would be able to practice their English all evening. After making 3rd class I was able to live off base. At that time I was still unmarried. Bob Howard was also an Electrician in the shop. His wife was Terry. Jack Rapisarda, Engineman? Power Plant, wife Mal., Patrick Kelly, from Terra Alta, WV. Matt Bilodeau from Boston, Mass. I was in 2 of the Little Theater productions, “Witness for the Prosecution” and “Plaza Suite”. I was Leonard Vole in Witness opposite Nancy Tresh? Wife of a Marine Captain and I was in Plaza Suite opposite Phoebe from Mechanicsburg, PA. I was Co-Director of “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown”, I think, Maybe I was Producer, can’t remember. Chief White was an Engineman? I think and was the lead PO for the Power Plant, His wife was named Mona and he lost his life in a vehicle accident in Morocco. He and his wife lived in a large complex between the base and town and their house was a popular party spot while they were there. When E4’s were finally allowed to live off base, I and 3 of my comrades in the barracks rented a 4BR, 3BA with outside decks and rooftop sunning on the 3rd level of Mehdia Beach (La Plage). The house came with a cooking Fatima and a cleaning Fatima and cost the princely sum of $230 American per month. It was the greatest place. We had a really GOOD time. There was a restaurant out by the Kasbah in Kenitra, I think it was called “Auberge de la Foret”. Wonderful food. Penguin Ice Cream, Brochettes, pan du chocolate, café au lait, Cous Cous, Chicken Tahjeen, La Vache qui Rit (Laughing cow cheese}, Beau Soleil wine, VCS (Vine Covered Shack) in Rabat, American Embassy in Rabat and man oh man I will never forget the Kung Fu Movies we watched in Kenitra. Actually riding the real Marrakesh Express is something I still remember, Casablanca, Fez, Agadir. We rented a Peugeot Station wagon once and did a huge grand tour of Morocco. Put about 1500 miles on that car in a week. I was there for the 2 attempts on the life of the King and one earthquake. This email was split into 3 days of remembering and Lou asked me to put it all together, so here it is now. Everytime I think about Sidi, I remember something else. We had a flag football team at Public Works and one year we won it all. Beat the Marines, Beat Kenitra, Beat Bouk. As I’m writing, I keep remembering names, Pat Reed was a Storekeeper and played on the team. He lives in Gulfport, MS. I introduced him to the woman he is married to. Our Coach, the year we won it all, was a Warrant that ran the Mess Hall. Can’t remember his name. Chief Blanchard was a BUC at Sidi Yahia, but I believe he lived at Kenitra. Anyway he had 2 beautiful daughters and one of them was killed along with her boyfriend when the motorcycle they were riding went off the road. It took a couple of days to find them and I remember it hit Public Works pretty hard. CE Chief Reed or Reese was a weightlifter and his biceps were so big that he couldn’t touch the back of his neck. I still think that is weird. Through most of the time I was at Sidi Yahia, the permanent PO at the FireHouse was a 1st Class from the Phillipines, another phillipino was Maximo Impezio, a Yeoman Chief. OK, I’m gonna for now and as I remember names and events, I will note them and put them into a later letter. My email address is jackglenda66@bellsouth.net. If you knew me or knew some of the people I’ve mentioned please email. |
| Name: | P Spencer George |
| E-mail address: | psgeorge@rcn.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at NCF Sidi Yahia 3/56 - 9/57. CT3(R) stood watch below in Receiver Site bldg. out in the boonies. Played on CINCNELM champs softball team '56 and '57. I have searched your terrific Guestbook and seems to be a shortage of "Old Timers". Paul Sickles is the only one in that time frame and then to Det 28 which is where I was 1/58 - 12/58. I would certainly appreciate hearing from anyone at those stations at that time. Getting old and would like to find some shipmates. Softball team -- Babe Onuska, HFDF, Jim Hodges, CB, pitcher, Doc Dean, HM, catcher, Homeboy James, Cook, 1st base, Billy McGoghan(sp?), CT, left field.
The slightest help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Spencer |
| Name: | Don Kortsehl |
| E-mail address: | dkortsehl@cox,net |
| Comments: | I was at NCS from 72-75 starting in off in BCST and ending up at Receivers. I retired in 1997 as an RM1.Now working for EDS at the NCI Classifed Helpdesk. Hi Tom Sanders I rember seing you in Guam but I was wsorking in TAC and always real busy and did not have a chance to talk to you very much. I am living in San Diego now. |
| Name: | Jerry Smith |
| E-mail address: | jerry@eabtr.com |
| Comments: | Was in Sidi Yahia the summer of 1963. Very interesting times. Was an R brancher. We were there when President Kennedy made us "civilian technicians." The King wanted all U.S. Military out of the country. They sent me to OCS in August and I thought they would send me back ... but wound up at NAVCOMSTA Wahiawa for three years. It was great to serve with a great crew at the edge of the desert!
Thanks for the GREAT WEB SITE. |
| Name: | Fred Rankin |
| E-mail address: | rankfred@cs.com |
| Name: | Chuck Bailey |
| E-mail address: | cebgoes2@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hi Joe, thanks for the site. RM3 2/70--8/71 boy what a walk done memory lane. I remember a lot of events with you. I worked at the ATCU in the field behind admin. I still keep in touch with several guys that were stationed with us then, I'll be letting them know of your site. Oh btw, Ron Daniels and I came to look for you in NJ sometime in 8/71 when we all got back home.
Chuck cebgoes2@hotmail.com |
| Name: | M.L. COOPER |
| E-mail address: | iplaylespaul@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | EN2 stationed at powerplant Bouknadal Jan70-Jan72. Lived downtown Kenitra and moved on to base qtrs Jan1. Found base on googleearth.com by following road out of Kenitra. Goo site, would like to here from any of the guys from Bouk. Brings back a lot of memories as we had just gotten married in the 30 days I had from leaving RVN and prior to reporting to USNRS(T) Bouknadel. |
| Name: | Paul Lukas |
| E-mail address: | lukas1604@aol.com |
| Comments: | Located 1 buddy to begin with.....then 4 more...........now we are meeting in Chicago this Thursday (Sept. 6) for a mini reunion..........should be a blast -- Thanks to Dreambook - Navcomsta Morocco we're going to see each other again after 46 years!
So many memories in Kenitra, Rabat, etc., so thanks to Dreambook we're getting together. |
| Name: | LT Denise Budcaki Duke (USN/Ret) |
| E-mail address: | duked4@westal.net |
| Comments: | I was born in Morocco October 1960. My dad was assigned as the EMO at Sidi Yahia (CWO2 Frank Budacki). My mom (Dorothy Sudomir Budacki) was told not to travel while pregnant but knowing families were allowed she packed up the house, my sister and off they went to Morocco. I was born shortly after their arrival. My memory is limited of my time there but when returning to the area in 1997 I felt a sense of coming home. While on active duty I was honored to meet sailors who were assiged at Sidi while my dad was assigned there. What a thrill for our whole family. |
| Name: | Larry Daniels |
| E-mail address: | lardan@cox.net |
| Comments: | Superb effort on this website. Was stationed at CNL 68/69 as an RM3. During this time frame it had the best group of communicators collectively that I served with throughout my career. Started my tour at Sidi in FltTacRelay. After a couple of months, I went down to CAMS for remainder of the tour. During my U.S. Navy career I went on to make Chief, Warrant, and LDO. Finished my career as the Force Communications Officer at COMNAVSURFLANT, retiring in 1988. Thanks for the walk down memory lane. /LD |
| Name: | M. John Johnson |
| E-mail address: | mjohnjohnson@juno.com |
| Comments: | I got to NCS sidi yahia in Sept 66 and left Nov 68.
When I arrived there, my clearance wasn't there yet so I couldn't do my job, so the Navy put me in the Chow Hall and there I work for maybe 5 weeks. I learn there not to be late for work. I bought a Big Ben clock and when it sounded off at about 5 am the whole barracks knew it. Thanks for the web site.,,, jj CT2 O |
| Name: | rick glass |
| E-mail address: | rickglass@peoplepc.com |
| Comments: | I was at NCS Sidi Yahia 74-75. Do you or anyone know Steve Eisenbrey? If so please tell me how to contact him. Thanks
rickglass@peoplepc.com |
| Name: | Tom Saunders |
| E-mail address: | tsaun at tcainternet.com |
| Comments: | Joe, thanks for the Memories, I appreciate what you have done here!
I'm Tom Saunders, stationed at Sidi 1972-73 as an RM3. I can't remember the section name, but I worked for Monte "Gus" Gustafason in the message center in the "Purple Pit". I left the first day with my Dixie Cup purple. Griff ran DCS Relay, Tater Dog (Steve Taylor) was in Flt-Tac Relay, so was Vince DiBattista and Terry Linehardt. I seem to remember tape loops on the burpe reader, sorting chad, 3 ply paper with the carbon on the outside, and line feeds to that Xerox Inkjet (first one I ever saw.) Later my boss was Ray Miller in FltBCST, all those name changes on the channels, Recaps by hand, Bill Jadoun(sp) (a one time CYN) cutting recaps so fast his hands flew. Bear explaining how he got the barber to not cut his side burns (masking tape) I'm a RM "A" school classmate of Tom "Hands" Adams, Kurt Newhardt and Don Kortsehl who were also stationed there. I was a roomie with Gale "Gates" Hallock and Don Kortsel. I was on that 1973 Champion softball team, the slow pitch one, and also on that flag team as well, got beat by the Marines in the rain. I remember Fred Meier too, if its the same person, I ran into him later when I went to Morse Code School in San Diego. A name no one has mentioned from that era: AMOS FLORIO! Where are you? I think Gary Whaley and I have almost the exact same rotation dates, I remember him too. I later ran into Don Kortsehl in Guam at CAMS there, seems he came back into the Navy after all. Anyone remember that big blow up that happened, and we got a new Captian, O.G. Baird? I can't remember the details, but it seems to me there was a huge fight and it came down to USN vs USMC and it got rough. As for me, I left Morocco, went to USS Coronado LPD-11 73-75 (back before they converted it to AGF), From there to NSA New Orleans 75-77 Went to the Pre-Comm unit of USS Mississipi CGN-40, Jimmy Carter was at the commissioning ceremony, 77-80. Then to USS Sylvania AFS-2 80-82 where I was promoted to RM1 and got my Surface Warfare pin. I reenlisted and got ASWOC Bermuda 82-86 where I made Chief and Senior Chief. Continuing on this career my family and I were transfered to Guantanamo Bay, where I was a ship rider for FTG, 87-89. In 1989 I was selected for Chief Warrant and was commissioned. After Knife and Fork school I was sent to ASWOC Misawa Japan, as Commo and later OIC of the NAVCOMDET Misawa. 89-91. The COMSTA Boss in Yokosuka was CDR John Howard, who did at least one tour in Morocco. My last tour of duty was as a plans officer at Commander, Naval Telecommunications Command in Washington DC 91-94. I worked again for CDR Howard. After I retired I also worked for John Howard a third time at SEMCOR in DC where we provided engineering support to SPAWAR's Ron Zell, yet another old Morocco hand. Since I retired, I've gone to school and been a teacher also, I now am a manager for CompuCom Systems working for Wal-Mart in Bentonville Arkansas. To all my shipmates: I wish you the best! Tom Saunders, CWO3, USN (Retired) tsaun at tcainternet.com (remove the spaces and fix the at for email) |
| Name: | Tom Saunders |
| E-mail address: | tsaun at tcainternet.com |
| Comments: | Joe, thanks for the Memories, I appreciate what you have done here!
I'm Tom Saunders, stationed at Sidi 1972-73 as an RM3. I can't remember the section name, but I worked for Monte "Gus" Gustafason in the message center in the "Purple Pit". I left the first day with my Dixie Cup purple. Griff ran DCS Relay, Tater Dog (Steve Taylor) was in Flt-Tac Relay, so was Vince DiBattista and Terry Linehardt. I seem to remember tape loops on the burpe reader, sorting chad, 3 ply paper with the carbon on the outside, and line feeds to that Xerox Inkjet (first one I ever saw.) Later my boss was Ray Miller in FltBCST, all those name changes on the channels, Recaps by hand, Bill Jadoun(sp) (a one time CYN) cutting recaps so fast his hands flew. Bear explaining how he got the barber to not cut his side burns (masking tape) I'm a RM "A" school classmate of Tom "Hands" Adams, Kurt Newhardt and Don Kortsehl who were also stationed there. I was a roomie with Gale "Gates" Hallock and Don Kortsel. I was on that 1973 Champion softball team, the slow pitch one, and also on that flag team as well, got beat by the Marines in the rain. I remember Fred Meier too, if its the same person, I ran into him later when I went to Morse Code School in San Diego. A name no one has mentioned from that era: AMOS FLORIO! Where are you? I think Gary Whaley and I have almost the exact same rotation dates, I remember him too. I later ran into Don Kortsehl in Guam at CAMS there, seems he came back into the Navy after all. Anyone remember that big blow up that happened, and we got a new Captian, O.G. Baird? I can't remember the details, but it seems to me there was a huge fight and it came down to USN vs USMC and it got real bad. As for me, I left Morocco, went to USS Coronado LPD-11 73-75 (back before they converted it to AGF), From there to NSA New Orleans 75-77 Went to the Pre-Comm unit of USS Mississipi CGN-40, Jimmy Carter was at the commissioning ceremony, 77-80. Then to USS Sylvania AFS-2 80-82 where I was promoted to RM1 and got my Surface Warfare pin. I reenlisted and got ASWOC Bermuda 82-86 where I made Chief and Senior Chief. Continuing on this career my family and I were transfered to Guantanamo Bay, where I was a ship rider for FTG, 87-89. In 1989 I was selected for Chief Warrant and was commissioned. After Knife and Fork school I was sent to ASWOC Misawa Japan, as Commo and later OIC of the NAVCOMDET Misawa. 89-91. The COMSTA Boss in Yokosuka was CDR John Howard, who did at least one tour in Morocco. My last tour of duty was as a plans officer at Commander, Naval Telecommunications Command in Washington DC 91-94. I worked again for CDR Howard. After I retired I also worked for him a third time at SEMCOR in DC where we provided engineering support to SPAWAR's Ron Zell, yet another old Morocco hand. Since I retired, I've gone to school and been a teacher also, I now am a manager for CompuCom Systems working for Wal-Mart in Bentonville Arkansas. To all my shipmates: I wish you the best! Tom Saunders, CWO3, USN (Retired) tsaun at tcainternet.com (remove the spaces and fix the at for email) |
| Name: | Bob Bies |
| E-mail address: | busybies@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I was a CTR3 stationed there from August 63 to Feb 65. My wife arrived in January 64 and left in August 84 pregnant with twins. Thanks for igniting some memories |
| Name: | Larry F. Lachat |
| E-mail address: | larrylachat@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Steve Hope
E-mail address: Steve.Hope@CIANCenter.com Steve where did you go? I have tried to send email to you but it comes back. If you have a new address let me know. I sincerely would like a copy of the pictures from the play. I am still waiting to hear what part you played. I also need to find out the name of the Commander that was part of the group - If I remember correctly his wife was in the cast. I need to contact him to apologize for something I said, it took me a lot of years to recognize that what I said was wrong, and how much I insulted him and I would like to make him aware that I DID recognize it. Maturity often comes WAY too late!! Thanks and hoping to hear from you. Larry Lachat (Latch) |
| Name: | Frank Egan |
| E-mail address: | frankega@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I was at Sidi when it opened very early in 1952, February I think. There were less than 100 of us, from Radio-2 in Port Lyautey. It was really a god-foresaken place in the beginning. Absolutely nothing to do except sun bathe if you could take the sun. I hated leaving Port Lyautey. The duty there was 2 on and 2 off. At Sidi it was something like 3,3, and 3 and then a few days off. |
| Name: | Norm Wagener |
| E-mail address: | vetcgbb@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | SN: 6/1969-9/1970. message center, terminal bldg in sidi yahia. 2 mos. in galley; com-ops softball team 2 summers;homered off doug tucker (ct, tacoma, wash) in 1970 all-star game. remember schofield, whitehouse (his teeth!)pippin, stiegman,rmcs carter & landis,lcdr laird, i think cook on this site, (fm texas?),marines sweet(chicago), stretch(North Carolina)and mc crary (TN?),yes, they were ZDK's,blonde chick w/jean pierre at the rex was named Mimi.came home on the michelangelo with perez from texas,CT harry riechert from reading, PA. he went to guam after morocco. I went to uss fdr(cva-42) med cruise then to binh thuy in mekong delta in vietnam. was 18-19 and crazy and now really appreciate my veterans status and moroccan memories; all of them. e-mail me roger. god bless u all and thank you all for your service. |
| Name: | Dennis Nixon |
| E-mail address: | cecseabee@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at NCTC Kenitra from July 77 to September 78. I was 1 of the last 32 people to leave Morocco after closing Kenitra. I had a room mate on Media Plage named CE2 Gary Weil and CM2 Joe Lockwood. I worked in the Power Plant and Phone exchange during my stay there. Morocco had a great lasting memory for a 18 year old and first time overseas. I met alot of people from the other bases that closed, sidi and bouck. Nothing even comes close to the time I spent in Morocco, after 18 years in and finished as a CE1. |
| Name: | ivan rock usn retired 1966 |
| E-mail address: | ivanrock@peoplepc.com |
| Comments: | i was stationed at ptlyautey from mar 1947 to mar 1950. i was in the crash boats, then the post office both the finance and the fpo sides. had a lot of fun all of my duty there. i left there as TE3 and wound up as a RMC when i retired in 1966 from NCU Londoon England
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| Name: | mustafa KOUCH |
| E-mail address: | mk-steve@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | hi every body
thi website is fabulous many thanks to everyone who worked to set it.my name is mustafa KOUCH and I was Housing Manager at NCS Sidi Yahia from 1967 to1977.I would be very pleased to hear from my old fellows and friends and any one who remembers me. please drop me a mail. |
| Name: | Jim McGowan |
| E-mail address: | jim@rhinoproducts.com |
| Comments: | After scanning this book it looks like I go way back (1959-1961). Also, did not see anyone else from the Bouknadel transmitter site? Was RMSN/RM3 at Bouk. Loved it! Retired in 1978 as RMCM. Must run - will write more later. |
| Name: | trevor sidaway |
| E-mail address: | trevor_sidaway@hotmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.blackcountrystories.co.uk |
| Comments: | I'm British and on my site there is a link to my Military Service in Gibraltar in 1953/54, you may find it of interest
It includes a picture of Joe Guadarian and Jim Everart, Joe picked up my site and led me to you I'm British |
| Name: | Gary Templeton |
| E-mail address: | gartemp@cableone.net |
| Comments: | I was stationed at NavCommSta Sidi Yahia from June of 1967 to about September of 1969 left as an Cyn3 and went aboard the USS Chilton and worked the sea side of the same circuits I worked in the Flt. Tac. Relay. We all made multiple trips to Rabat, once to CasaBlanca and once to Marakech. I really miss my buds from Barracks 13/12 and visited with some of them after I mustered out of the Navy. I have many fond memories. Sure wished there were others from my era. kkkkgt |
| Name: | Tom Kelly |
| Comments: | Hey,
Just found site. Was stationed in NTC Comm center mid-late 1960's. |
| Name: | James Schutze |
| E-mail address: | J_SCHUTZESR@msn.com |
| Comments: | I was stationed at Sidi 66/67, worked at the power plant. I lived in 11-c ? across from mess hall. Cube mates Duane Zimmerman, Jim Wright, Bob Kohn,Red?? Dekalb, Ill. |
| Name: | Charlie Jordan |
| E-mail address: | chahj2@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | Stationed at Sidi Yahia 1958-1959 as RM3 in CommCenter. Many fond memories of the place. The first time we used the small detached radio shack down near the marine barracks to converse by voice with WASHDC (Tophand). Played football for 2 seasons, getting banged up the 1st season and not sure if I should try again a 2nd time (did). Played Marines at NAS/airforce from Sidi Slimane; Rota Spain/Italy 6th flt team. We actually had to sod the practice field. I vaguely remember a ensign who attended Holy Cross (Schmoo) and became our coach. They placed all of the football players into one duty section (Bravo). How about the Sunday Midnight Field days to clean up the center? Well this should do it for now. I left Active duty and stayed in Reserves leaving LDO Ensign just before retirement. I have been emailing another NCS'r who lived in the same town I did in Mass. (Norton). Both of us became police officers and both of us retired.
Great site and interesting reading. |
| Name: | Tom Hunt |
| E-mail address: | tomhunt2004@msn.com |
| Comments: | It's me again. Just been remebering more and more as I read the entries. Do any of you remember wetting your t-shirts, wringing them out so they weren't dripping, putting them back on and hittin' the rack. Our own personal air conditioners. I remember the barracks (12S) as being flat roofed with no screens on the windows and if there were screens they had lots of holes. The cubes had block walls jutting out from the main walls to form 3 sides of the cube. The fourth was formed by lockers with a blanket for a door. Remember? The luxury heads we had, four shower stalls (I think), trying to sleep when the watch changed, working in the terminal building, you know, the one with 2 doors and no windows. New guys fainting during the sirocs when they stepped outside into the 120+ heat from the air conditioned 70F. Like walking into an oven. Catching the lizards and letting them loose in the barracks. The beer machines in the 'day rooms'. Schlitz for a quarter. Barracks fire and security watch. The chow hall and watching the local drakes having their way with the feathered ladies.
I remember one time, I had to climb those 300' microwave towers to change a light bulb or something. Hell, I could look west and see the States from that there. As the song goes "Ah, yes. I remember it well!" I guess I've bored you long enough Tom ETN3 back then |
| Name: | Tom Hunt |
| E-mail address: | tomhunt2004@msn.com |
| Comments: | HEY Joe, you old sonova_____!!! Long time no hear!! Yea I remember those days. I was there as ETN 3 Sept '70 to Jan '72--16 months. The old saying goes "There's no place worse than your present duty station and no better than the one you're going to" While I was there, I had good times and had bad times. I try to remember the good. Joe Franzen was in the cube across the aisle from me. Little did I know after an 8+ hours flight from NY and a long bus ride from Rabat, that I would bump into a fella that knew my nextdoor neighbor, Jim. Travel 3500 miles just to meet a guy that used to surf with my best stateside buddy.
AH, the memories. The flag football games at Hogg Field. The play where I got six stitches in my right eyelid when I was blocking for an end around play. The guy I hit, don't remember his name, got 7 stitches in his cheek. What a game!!!! Our team was formed mostly of ET's and a couple of RM's and CYN's. We would 'practice' at the Sport Eye or the EM club and then play with half a package on. Our record at Sidi was 0-20 over the two seasons that I played there. Benasa and Larbi were our house boys-- 12 South barracks dues $2.00 and month. Was your clothes and make up your rack--what a bargain. I believe it was the summer '71 when we had a military coup against King Hasson, a mountain lion on base, a change of command and a syphillus epidemic in about a 4 or 5 week span. Where else can you get that kind of excitement. When I left Sidi, I almost missed the plane outta there because noone from the quarterdeck called for the bus to go to Kenitra NTC. Many adventures, memories and some scars. Chicken Lady Sirocs Sahara Desert EM Club Sport Eye Acey Duecy Commissary Movie house Fleet Club American Bar bus stop in Kenitra living on the beach the smells brouchettes many many more Talk to ya soon, Tom |