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| Name: | R. Keith Knight |
| E-mail address: | guanakeith@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | RK Knight VMFA 531 64/65 Far East Cruise I am not a very adept internetsurfer, but came across this while satisfying my curiosity about VMFA 531 and searching for fellow Ordnancemen to support a VA claim. I live in Nicaragua, and recently had my brother send me a box of 'stuff' I had stored in his garage some 20 years ago. In it was my 64/65 531 Far East Cruise book and a plastic bag full of photos (what grand memories). On this site I saw two names I recognized Crothers and Lahey, so here I go. I am former Cpl. RK Knight 1956088, I was attached to MABS 24, where I worked under W/O 'Gunner' Swearengen, MCAS Cherry Point EOD Officer, one of the finest Officers and men I have worked with in my life time. I went TAD to 531 twice to NAS Key West as an Ordnanceman,6511,(YabbaDabbaDoo)during the Cuban Crisis, then extended 6 mos to go with 531 on it's Far East Cruise which included Atsugi, Japan (AkadamaDamaDoo), Olongapo, Phillipines, Kadena AFB Okinawa, and DaNang. I was released from active duty at MCAS El Toro on 531's return to USA. Thanks to my Ordnance Experience I went to work at the Hawthorne, Nevada Naval Ammunition Depot for BUWEPS, very dissatisfied with Civil Service and the garbage munitions we were sending to Viet Nam, I quit and a former Marine Corps Colonel (another fine Officer and Gentleman)hired me to work for United Air Lines. After 8/12 years, I went on to other things, ended up in the oilfields of Wyoming, hired for my 'ordnance experience' until the oilfield crashed in the early 80's. I later worked for the Air Force at Vandenberg AFB, CA, hired under the VN Vet Readjustment Act, and worked in what they called Ordnance. Again, fed up with Civil Service, I went to work for Sterns Rogers, on contract at Johnston, Atoll 840 miles SW of Hawaii at the JACADS plant where nerve gas was being destroyed, again hired with the help of Ordnance experience and clearances. After that, I lived in Costa Rica for 9 years, and now in Granada, Nicaragua (7 years) with my new wife, 7 year old Weimaraner, and two cats, no Marine experience for this, but many fond memories of VMFA 531, the Marine Corps. I really enjoyed reading about you guys, the ones I replaced and those that replaced me (why did it take so many of you?). We have an American Legion Post here Ni01, the last I knew there were more Marines as members than any other branch. Semper Fi guanakeith@yahoo.com |
| Name: | chick weisman |
| E-mail address: | chicweis@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | was at mcas kanoeho vma 214 mag 13 ao in 1952 march til 53 like to hear from some of guys if still around when back eltoro 53 |
| Name: | chick weisman |
| E-mail address: | chicweis@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | was at mcas kanoeho vma 214 mag 13 ao in 1952 march til 53 like to hear from some of guys if still around when back eltoro 53 |
| Name: | CPL WR TRUMBLY |
| E-mail address: | ROY@HOBBIEAUTOCENTER.MOTOSNAP.COM |
| Comments: | HEY,,,,DAVE CAN YOU HOOK ME UP WITH MILEY,,,I'M PART OF THE CRAZY GANG IN 531 DURING 77,,78 WHEN VMFP-3 STARTED RECRUITING US TO THEIR TOUR ON THE MIDWAY,,THEY GOT MYSELF AND SSGT SOUTHCOTT FROM HYD SHOP AND SGT STEAMBOAT WEST FROM PP SHOP AND SOME FROM METAL SHOP...ETC...ETC WITH BIG STORIES OF THE HIGH SEAS AND HIGH ADVENTURE,,,LITTLE DID WE KNOW,,WE WOULD ALL END UP IN THE PACIFIC,ANYWAY DURING THE IRAN CRISIS,WHO KNEW?WE WERE ALL BORED WITH TRNG DETS TO YUMA AND RED FLAG,,BUT IT WAS ALL GOOD,,WHAT A BLAST!OH,,LARRY BRIDGES AND OTHERS FROM 323,314,ETC.TOO!!ALL OF THE SKILLED LABOR TO MAKE IT WORK,AND GREAT PILOTS TOO,,,WE'RE ALL PROUD STILL AND I REMEMBER YOU TOO ,DAVE. |
| Name: | steve strickland |
| E-mail address: | redfish@wayxcable.com |
| Comments: | I was in the good ole metal shop 71-73 and the med cruise. It was a trip. semper fi |
| Name: | Rance Jurevwicz |
| E-mail address: | admin@veteranprograms.com |
| Comments: | http://www.veteranprograms.com/id194.html Happy New Year! We love this website. It has been very helpful for our members. Also, our members tell us that our website is the best place for veterans to find information about compensation, pension and benefits for veterans. We have been told that VSOs now recommend that veterans visit our website first before filing a claim. Veterans learn about the process, who to see, where to go, and how to maximize their disability claims. Visit today! http://www.veteranprograms.com/id194.html |
| Name: | gary murawski aka ski |
| E-mail address: | lonewolf@ix.netcom.com |
| Comments: | Hello I am looking for Gy/Sgt Gary W. Kaitting. I served with him at MCAS El Toro with VMCJ-3 in the 70's Thanks & Semper Fi |
| Name: | gary murawski aka ski |
| E-mail address: | lonewolf@ix.netcom.com |
| Comments: | Hello I am looking for Gy/Sgt Gary W. Kaitting. I served with him at MCAS El Toro with VMCJ-3 in the 70's Thanks & Semper Fi |
| Name: | Sgt. Maj. O.F. Snow |
| E-mail address: | snowandco@aol.com |
| Comments: | Dad is 95 now, served in WWII, Korea and 2 tours in Vietnam. From Hillsdale, MI, now in Tennessee. Would love to share notes with him from old friends. Write in the subject line "To Sgt. Maj. Snow". Thank you! Daughter: Gail Snow Jackson |
| Name: | Mark V. Blevins |
| E-mail address: | mblevins410@gmail.com |
| Comments: | i came out of the f-14 program to reform the "Ghost" in 1975 at El Torro, i left in 1977 for D.I. school at San Diego, i was on flight line with D. W. everybody there did a great job, Sierra Hotel, and Semper Fi. |
| Name: | cpl wr trumbly |
| E-mail address: | roy@hobbieautocenter.motosnap.com |
| Comments: | i miss 531 crazydays hyd shop,77-78 |
| Name: | Robert Francis |
| E-mail address: | ChuckF14@aol.com |
| Comments: | Join 531 in Lemoore for F-18 training, Dec 82. Sheet Metal Shop til 84 when a group of us got sent down the street to 314 for a trip on the Coral Sea. Semper Fi |
| Name: | Dawn Seden |
| E-mail address: | superstar6179@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Been looking for different things for a shadow box for my husband. Dave aka: davedawg Seden was a attached to VMFA 531 at El Toro about Early 1980-84. Anybody out ther ? Hit us up on email or facebook... |
| Name: | DW REID |
| E-mail address: | DERIED@WOODENERGYSTORE.COM |
| Comments: | NOT MUCH TO SAY EXCEPT I DID ENJOY READING THE COMMENTS FROM THE DIFFERENT PEOPLE AND DIFFERENT WALKS OF LIFE THEY REPRESENTED THANKS TO YOU ALL |
| Name: | David Brooks |
| E-mail address: | dgbrooks1@mac.com |
| Comments: | Was researching information on my dad, came across this site. He was part of the Gray Ghost' from 48-52. On behalf of my family, thanks for keeping the memories alive. |
| Name: | "Catfish" Tony B |
| E-mail address: | borgstadtsr@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Saw Smokey Stover's name and a few others I was in the "Heavy Metal" shop back in the 80's and Corrosion Control. Since leaving the Corps(Not My Idea,1st wife's)in 1986 I Went to work for the Army in 97,joined the Army Guard in 90 worked on the AH-1 "Cobra" and now the AH-64 Apache. Counting my "Corps" Time,I have 28 years and counting. Stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in my Home state of Missouri. Have Been in VMAT 203,VMFA 321,VMFA 451,Mag-41 H&MS 13 H&MS 31,VMFA 531, and Army Outfits 1/135th Attack Battalion At present. |
| Name: | Anthony M Borgstadt "Catfish Tony B" |
| E-mail address: | borgstadtsr@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Squadron Member Oct 1982-Dec 1986 Anybody out there? |
| Name: | Mark S, Strehlau |
| E-mail address: | mark.strehlau@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | USMC June 08, 1970 - June 07, 1974. I Serviced in HMS 13, HMS 11, VMFA 531. Med Cruise, Sept 1972-July 1973 aboard the USS Forestal, CVA 59, CAG 17, in VMFA 531 power PLants shop. Another life, a life time ago. Would have done things much differently if I could do it all over. I enjoyed much of the cruise. I remember it as an interesting experience, some good times and some not so good, for a then 20/21 year old misguided young man. I really grew up in the Marine Corps. Sad to see the Marine Corps retired the squadron, it had such a rich, great history Now Im 58 years old and eligible to retire next year (2010) with 30 years service with the McDonnel Douglas and Boeing companies. Planning on teaching college part time in my retiremet just to keep busy and hopefully pay something back by teaching the next generation of young people. I had some brief e-mai contacts from Dave Thomas and Alexandr Spivry a number of years ago. Dennis Cobb was best man at my wedding and he and I remaind friends over the years until he died, I think it wasin 1978. His wife wrote and told me about his death, he drown in lake Michigan. Sad to say I missed the funeral. I worked at McDonnel Douglas/Boeing with Ed Tebo and Al Salt over the years. Have not heard from anyone else from the 'old days',to bad. Well thats about all I got to say. May God bless all former VMFA 531 Marines, Semper Fi! |
| Name: | Dwain (Field) Ulrich |
| E-mail address: | logonhurst_eagle@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I was in the metal shop from 1976 to 1980. The Marines, especially VMFA-531 Gray Ghosts were some of the best part of my life. I have done some crazy and stupid stuff but I would do the Marines and the Gray Ghosts again if I had the chance. If you served around the same time drop me an e-mail and we can talk about the great time we had in the best F4N unit there ever was. Dwain, the skinny guy way back then... |
| Name: | David "Pell" Pelletier |
| E-mail address: | david.a.pelletier@maine.gov |
| Comments: | I was in VMFA-531 from 1986-1991 in the Hydraulic shop. Reading some of the entries brings back a lot of good memories. I left after the first Gulf War and moved back to Maine and started a family. Im a State Police Detective now and have a great wife and 3 active kids. For all that I served with I want to thank you all for all the great memories. Semper Fi David Pelletier |
| Name: | Roger Lalik |
| E-mail address: | support@smallbusinessnetworks.biz |
| Comments: | Was a Grey Ghost in 68/69 then mid 70 until she was decommissioned for a bit then back to her until 78. Made the 72-73 Med cruise. What a memorable time. Seems like yesterday. |
| Name: | TJ "Hooter" VanMeter |
| E-mail address: | tjvanmeter@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Saw a couple of familiar names while trolling through the guestbook. I was with 531 Ordnance from 79-81. Hard to believe it's been almost 30 years since that WestPac! Still some of the best memories of my life - and yes, I mean that in a positive way!! Semper Fi. |
| Name: | Cpl. Brad Delk |
| E-mail address: | btdelk@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Just happened to run across the site. Saw a couple familiar names up here. I was with the Ghosts from '85 thru '90. Hard to believe it's been over 20 years since I first walked in the hangar at El Toro. I worked in S-1 and the CMCC back in the day. I got a college degree after getting out, worked a few jobs, got married and have two awesome kids, and now work as a police officer in a medium-sized central California city. If anyone out there still recognizes my name, shoot me and e-mail. I'd like to hear what you're up to these days. |
| Name: | Mike Talbot |
| E-mail address: | revmkell@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was with the ghosts 68 to 69. Power plants and ext. fuel stores. Hay James I've worked on double nuts. |
| Name: | kenneth w. lewis |
| E-mail address: | kenlew52@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | great site. wish some of my old units would come up with something like this. |
| Name: | gerry flanagan |
| E-mail address: | timkins2@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Hey! I believe my brother Capt Ed Flanagan served with you at Chu Lai I,m a little younger USn Aviation Electricians Mate 3rd. Let me know, I'll hook you guys up! Thanks for your service! |
| Name: | Kenneth Weeks |
| E-mail address: | kenitofl@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I joined VMF(AW)531 in 1962. We trained at NAS Oceana, VA with VF-101 and were the first squadron on the East Coast to get the F4H. Y'all remember how difficult it was to keep them in the air at first? Later that year we deployed to Key West during the missile crisis. I was on the flight line during all of this time. In late 1963 I joined VMFA-115 when they were reforming with the F4B Phantoms. Happy New Year 2009, may they all come home... |
| Name: | Willie J. Allen |
| E-mail address: | docmastermarine@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Maintenance Administration 6046, 1981 thru 1984 |
| Name: | Jim Cox (SGT) |
| E-mail address: | james.d.cox@faa.gov |
| Comments: | I was a plane captain 1968-1970. I actually saw double nuts fly one time. Then went to FMF WEST PAC but wound up in VMFA-232 in Iwakuni, Japan. Col. Pappy Perez was our CO and Major Mackey was our MX Officer. Would be glad to hear from anyone that knows me. |
| Name: | George E. Perry |
| E-mail address: | geejaa1@aol.com |
| Comments: | Served with VMF(AW)531 from 1960 to 1962 flying the F4D-1 SkyRay. Col. George (Rip) Collins was CO, and a great one I might add, as were all my brothers in that squadron. I remember you all.---George (Cash) Perry |
| Name: | George(Cash)Perry |
| E-mail address: | geejaa1@aol.com |
| Comments: | Flew "Fords" with VMF 531 from 1960 to 1962. Cherry Pt. & Atsugi. Col, Collins was skipper. A great squadron, many great memories. I even liked the airplane. |
| Name: | Mark Fischer |
| E-mail address: | mrf17@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Greetings to my fellow Ghosts! It's been a long time, fellas. I was in Electric Shop '82-'86. A lot of names on this site bring back a lot of fond memories. On a sadder note, wanted you all to know we lost Cpl. Doug Dulski and Sgt. Glen Okula, both of these Marines passed a few years back. I am still in the military.. after enlisted tour went back to college and to flight school. Now flying Gulfstreams at Andrews AFB (an old man's job!) Soon to retire. By the way, to the Avionics crew...I still have the infamous bitch book, and it is still hilarious! Feel free to drop me a line anytime. Semper Fi. |
| Name: | Kimberly K {Cory} Anderson |
| E-mail address: | luckydogage@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | My Dad was LT.COL.Orie E. Cory Ret..He was in the Gray Ghost Squadron back in the 1940's. My father serve in the Marines Corp for 27 years. I can't put down in words quiet yet how great my father was. You see he just past away on October 19,2008 and to is his Military 21Gun Salute Funeral. His daughter Kimberly K {Cory} Anderson |
| Name: | Dennis Fleming |
| E-mail address: | dennyvision@charter.net |
| Comments: | I posted this a couple of years ago, but my email is changed so I'm posting again. I was in VMFA-531 from 1972-1974 - electric shop. Samuelson, Spivy, Steve Fike, Bill Hughes, DJ Wells... My kids are always asking me about it. There is a documantary on the Forrestal fire, but I can't recall where I saw it. Anyone know? Dennis Fleming author of "She Had No Enemies" (available at Amazon.com) |
| Name: | Judy Jeon-Chapman |
| E-mail address: | jjeonchapman@worcester.edu |
| Comments: | I am the daughter of one of the original Night Fighters, Jack Chapman, who went to Belle-Tech Naval Research Lab in WA D.C. to be trained as a Radar expert before shipping out to the South Pacific during WWII with the VMF(N)531 in Russell Is., Vella LaVella, Bougainville, etc. I have read 1500 pages of letters that he wrote during WWII and have become very interested in the Night Fighters. Does anybody know of Jack Chapman or have photos from that era? Judy |
| Name: | Tony Costa |
| E-mail address: | wingwiper@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Served from nov66-nov67 SGT parachute rigger, with two trips to Yuma. Balch,hafley, varnell? remember Pvt Hoot at Yuma and SGT England? we lost an F4 at airshow, crew ok. many moons ago but proud to have been there. |
| Name: | Dennis E. Owens |
| E-mail address: | usmcrme59@cableone.net |
| Comments: | "What can I say?" But, Semper Fidelis Platoon 174 Parris Island S/N-1883209 I was amazed one day in 2005. I walked into a recruiting office in Granada Hills, Calif. I went in to get some USMC stickers. When I receited my Ser.No. a Sgt. said "is that your serial number?" That was sort of a let down for tradition. VMF(AW)531, "Plane Captain", Cherry Point 1960, Atsugi, Japan 61/62.. H&MS-24, Beaufort, S.C. 1963 A thanks to all who came before me, and to all who followed. Semper Fi. Gunny Bautista, if your still out there. I have never stopped regreting the grief I gave you. I am sorry. As for the other lifers, you deserved it. |
| Name: | Alan J.Sarnowski |
| E-mail address: | alcsar@wowway.com |
| Comments: | Just came back to check on site after bringing up the past at work. At 531 from Aug 75 to Dec 78 Flight Equip. 130 Night crew most of time. Great thing was brought back air crew from San clemente crash and also when one stared center line tank on fire at Nellis and Landed but ran out of runway in the desert and ejected at the end. Great Memories F-4N Phantoms are the Best Sempre Fi |
| Name: | thomas layton |
| E-mail address: | tlayton1@bellsouth.net |
| Comments: | found this site while looking for shirts and hats for my fathers fighter squarod of ww11... the 310 top hats |
| Name: | Roger E. Thelen(Ernie) |
| E-mail address: | xit_sno@hughes.net |
| Comments: | Worked in maint office of 531 from 60 to 62. Thought I'd better upgrade my e-mail address. Got tired of calling India to get any service, so I changed to a U.S. company. Hope it stays that way. Any guys from those years? I would like to hear from you. I met Terry Telder at the 531 reunion in Reno. Tried to contact Slawinski and LT. Perry on the net but got no reply. Lost in space I suppose..Have fun!!! |
| Name: | k. w. lewis |
| E-mail address: | kenlew52@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | i stumbled upon this site while doing research for a friend. her brother, 1st Lt. James C. Norton. he was killed on a routine training flight while stationed at mcas cherry point. he was with vmf (aw)531. he was killed on oct. 4, 1960. his sister was only 8 years old and hardly knew her brother. she is trying to put together some memories of him. anyone with info or pictures, we would like to hear from you. also i am a former marine. 70/75. 1st 8 in. howitzer battery, 1st field artillery group. 29 palms. thankis and SEMPER FI! |
| Name: | Sasha Goodin |
| E-mail address: | sasha-gardner@comcast.net |
| Comments: | My dad was in VMFA531 at El Toro from the 80's until we left in 91. Just happened upon this page while searching for El Toro. I've sent him the site. |
| Name: | Tom Cadenhead |
| E-mail address: | Tom@forestryforum.com |
| Comments: | Dad, Tom Cadenhead, was a member in the 50's. I know little about the group. I was invited to a gathering just before his death and tried to get him to go. He didn't make the year. He was always a Loud Mouth Marine and the life of the party. He left me and my son, as his namesakes, knowing that he was a good Marine. |
| Name: | Tony Jutting |
| E-mail address: | az350x@cox.net |
| Comments: | What a blast from the past! Was in 531 from 87-decom in 92. Powerline by MOS, but spent most of my hitch in Maint/Material Control. Did the Yechon WestPac and the two that followed. Great reading on here- saw quite a few names I recognize on here. Those were the days... |
| Name: | Joe Mowry |
| E-mail address: | jwmandjjm1@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Served at Chery Point End of 1966- early 1967 Cpl (6511) ord shop |
| Name: | Bill McCaul |
| E-mail address: | mccaul@charter.net |
| Comments: | I was the unit diary clerk at MAG-24 VMF(N)531 at Cherry Point from August 1953 thru Sept. 1955. If anyone out there has memories of that time frame, please email. 1/03/08. |
| Name: | Tim Fugett |
| E-mail address: | immisterhappy@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | 90-unitl we were decommissioned. I was assigned to Radar-Com/Nav but worked in Maintenance control as the Expediter on the last West-Pac. Great to see some names I remember, a little scary too. Where did the time go? |
| Name: | Al Maddox |
| E-mail address: | amaddox@eo-systems.com |
| Comments: | I was with VMFA 531 from October of 1978 till January of 1979 when I went to Millington for schooling, after that I was sent back to VMFA 531 till they deployed on the Westpack tour (Coral Sea) around August of 1979 then I was transfered to VMFA 314 until June of 1981 all Ordnance. (I sure miss the good old days with all of the deployments and El Toro) If anyone wants to share memories shoot me an e-mail amaddox@eo-systems.com |
| Name: | Major Ed Meyer, USMC, Retired |
| E-mail address: | emeyer@worldnet.att.net |
| Comments: | I was in the Radar Shop with VMFA 531 at El Toro from 1968 to 1971. Was gone for part of 70 and 71 when I joined VMFA 314 in Chu Lai RVN. I started as a PFC and finished there as a Sgt. Returned to Seattle, graduated from the UW and went through OCS. Retired in 1990 as a Major. It was an interesting time and a first rate squadron. Southern California was great for an 18 year old! |
| Name: | Ken King |
| E-mail address: | kenneth.m.king@navy.mil |
| Comments: | Sirs, I'm a Grey Ghost circa 1978-82 I was assigned to Work Center 310 (Flight Line) As you can see below in my signature I'm now working for NAVAIR as a T700 Engine Equipment Specialist (Tech Rep) The purpose of this e-mail is this: There is a large flight sim community that fly's Viet Nam era aircraft, me included. I stick with my trusty ol' F4N and F4B in the sim. Below you'll find a group that puts together missions based on actual ones flown. As of yet there haven't been any for VMFA-531 produced because these guys are all Air Force kinda guys. I've asked them to put together some missions for 531. What they need is a story to build the mission on. Yours, or any others that may want to contribute some would be greatly appreciated. http://www.yankeeairpirate.net/ |
| Name: | William Frantz |
| E-mail address: | knight_sabers@msn.com |
| Comments: | HI. MY NAME IS WILLIAM , I am working for the USS Hornet cvs 12 museum in alameda ca iI hope some one can provide me with some info about a co worker of mine LT Colonel Berger (burger) nelson hoffman he was a marine pilot/pow we were hoping to locate info /aircraft call sign WWW uss hornet.org |
| Name: | Herb Barret |
| E-mail address: | COUNTRYMAN326@AOL.COM |
| Comments: | This is one great site. Right out of Memphis I was assigned to Cherry Point, MAG24, VMFN 531, The Grey Ghost, during the transition of the F7F over to the F3D. Left the squadron in December 1953. As an aircraft maintainer, I was assigned to aircraft LT21. Flew several times in the radar operator’s seat. I remember one day, all the pilots had to wash aircraft due to some foul up during combat flight exercises. This may have been the day they shot down one of there own during the exercises. Another time my aircraft came back with braches hanging from the bomb rack, following aircraft carrier landing exercises. I recall one very colorful pilot, Cpt. “Blackie” McManus, he had “Cpt. Forever“ on his flight suit and a white silk scarf around his neck. This was one great outfit VMFN 531 and great guys to work with. Semper Fi. Thanks for the memories |
| Name: | Joe Mowry |
| E-mail address: | jwmandjjm1@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Was with VMFA-531 July 66-Jan 67 Cherry Point NC. worked in the ordance shop. Mgysgt Torcaso was the ncoic. Mustered out Jan 31 1967, E4 over 4. |
| Name: | Lynn Maxey |
| E-mail address: | lynnmaxey@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I was an AE in the Grey Ghosts when they were at Cherry Point in 1966 or so. Remained at Cherry Point when the 531 flag was moved to the West Coast and the aircraft remained and VMFAT-201 was formed around the aircraft. Later became the shop chief for the AE's. Major Heinzerling ("H+10") was our maintenance officer. Captain Mike Schremp was in the squadron and it was believed he was born with an F-4 strapped to his butt. |
| Name: | Robert Geigle |
| E-mail address: | bobnyuma@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Served with the Ghost's 1972-73 on the famous Med Cruise on the USS Forrestal. I understand the might FID will be sunk soon as artifial reef. All things end I guess. Enjoyed the memories. |
| Name: | Leland L. (Zonk) Zongker |
| E-mail address: | mvrck3456@aol.com |
| Comments: | Served Atsugi 1962 with H&MS-11 Flightline. TAD to VMF (AW) 531 Mar 1 1962 to Apr. 22 1962. Still have those orders. Have a copy of the Skywriter (Feb. 19, 1962) with the pictures of the Avionics Dept. with Cpl.Meade, Sgt.Hasse, SgtLane and Cpl Adamson. Picture of loading ordance on a F4D "Skyry" M/Sgt LaBree, S/SgtLaker, Cpl.Holt and Pvt. Leppowski. Brings out many good memories. Semper Fi "Zonk" |
| Name: | Jim Perkins |
| E-mail address: | perkins35@verizon.net |
| Comments: | I joined VMF(n)-531 in October 1951 after boot camp at Parris Island. Was assigned to Materiel Office where I chased airplane parts and issued 782 gear. Was with 531 until I seperated in August 1953 except for 2 months with 533. I couldn't wait to get back to 531. Saw the transition from F7F's to F3D's and went on maneuvers at Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico in 1952. Have attended some of the Grey Ghost reunions in Pensacola, Cherry point, Norfolk, and San Diego. If you haven't been, do it! |
| Name: | Michael Wlasiuk |
| E-mail address: | lynxcat66@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Cool to find this site! I was a plane captain in VMFA-531 from 85-90. Everyone knew me as "SPY" back then 'cause my last name is Russian and nobody could pronounce it!! ha ha! This brings back a lot of memories. |
| Name: | Rob "F_ _ _ Face" Fasano |
| E-mail address: | excaliburcorps@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Well well well....I have seen several names that bring to mind hundreds of blurred and hazy stories throughout the years 82 -86. Give me shout if you can. "Koz I still have your Yamaha guitar(in case you were wondering)my kids are learning on it... Tom C..Still got a few legal fees we need to clear up. I believe the statute of limitations has expired. ( The coast is clear,you can come out now). Dave hinkell, is it a bird?..a plane?..No..just the wheel you didn't safety wire heading toward us..I told you, we would laugh about it in twenty years..So HA HA. Semper Fi Devil Dogs!!! 5 thirty fun OOh Rah |
| Name: | Jim Rautenkranz |
| E-mail address: | a56strat@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Just stopped in the look the page over. Was a member of VMFA-531 during 1980-1981. My CO was LtCol J. Vogt, whom I thought was a fantastic Commanding Officer. It is Marines such as him that made the squadron a wonderful unit to be a member of. |
| Name: | Beth Roberts |
| E-mail address: | DoodleBopper@msn.com |
| Comments: | Umm...my grandad was on the HMS Ark Royal and I am looking for a Ark Royal 5th Commission book 1964-1966. His name was Russell Brown, he was an A/B or something, does anybody know where I could find one? Thanks, sorry to bother you. |
| Name: | James M. Krantz |
| E-mail address: | james.krantz@mchsi.com |
| Comments: | From August 1961 to August 1962 I was assgned to H&MS-11 at NAS Atsugi. I was a Fire Control Technician (MOS 6614) I repaired your Q-50 fire control radar. That time frame has some of the best memories of my life. Semper Fi, Jim Krantz |
| Name: | Phil Goettel |
| E-mail address: | phil.goettel@honeywell.com |
| Comments: | Hello to all you former ghosts. I was a ghost (Radar shop)from April 68 thru Dec. 70 at El Toro. CWO J.C. "Gunner" Bardon was our avionics officer at the time, and also the best RIO in the squadron. I have lots of fond memories from those days and still love the old Phantom. Special memories from Yuma deployments and Miramar for "Top Gun" and "Shoehorn". Would love to hear from any of the gang from the 68 to 70 time frame. Also, does anyone out there know anything about J.C. Bardon's whereabouts these days. Semper Fi. |
| Name: | Russell F Scanlan |
| E-mail address: | rscanlan1@houston.rr.com |
| Comments: | I was a member of 531 in El Toro around the 1974/75 time frame. I joined 531 shortly after the tomcat change over was canx. At the time I think the XO was Major Crabb but I can't remember the CO's name. Major Kevin O'Mara was the AMO. I was a WO-1 working with the guys in m/c along with Capt. Ramsey. It has been a long time and names are hard to remember but there was a GySgt Paul Silvas who was later selected for the WO program. There was also a Capt. Phipps and a Sgt. Southcott that worked in hydraulics. From 531 I was transfered to VMA-214 and made a WestPac tour. Prior to joining 531 and going through the WO program I was in several F-4 squadrons. 115 in DaNang, 251 Beaufort, 312 Cherry Point, and 122 & 235 at Kaneohe Bay. After returning from the WestPac tour I went to NAMTRADET-1024 in Beaufort as the OIC and then got out in Sept of 79. I stayed in the Marine Corps for 12 years and then worked another 26 years for DOD and retired on March 31st this year with over 38 years and now doing whatever I want to do. Semper Fi! |
| Name: | Russell F Scanlan |
| E-mail address: | rscanlan1@houston.rr.com |
| Comments: | I was a member of 531 in El Toro around the 1974/75 time frame. |
| Name: | John Valdez |
| E-mail address: | is4flyn@aol.com |
| Comments: | Hey fellow Gray Ghosts,we are trying to get a reunion party in Las Vegas somtime in March.I you served with the squadron during the years of 1978-81 and did the west-pac cruise in 79-80.Pete kokkoros,Tim Streit,Capote,Nipper,Charly George,Gerry Zuniga,Gerry Munoz,Fred Garcia,Marty Conner,Gene Cervantes,Ron Kidd,Gonzo or anybody else just e-mail me and I will get back to you.Semper Fi and Swing with the Wing!! |
| Name: | Wayne E. Howell |
| E-mail address: | wehowell18@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Great site ! I was with VMF (AW) 531 from 1960-1962 "Power Plants" Saw a couple of names I recognize from the past, great memories, great bunch of Marines May make the reunion, will see how it works out. |
| Name: | Daniel Lopez |
| E-mail address: | dlopez@plind.com |
| Comments: | Served aboard USS Forrestal from 1972 to 1973 med cruise. I would like to hear from anyone who used to work in supply. |
| Name: | David Hines |
| E-mail address: | defondo@aol.com |
| Comments: | Was with 531's "Ford" squadron under Lt. Col. "Rip" Collins, fron July, 1960 (Cherry Point) until July, 1962 (returning from Atsugi). It was a hell of a time and would like to touch base with any of you who were there. Semper Fi! Past, Present and Future! |
| Name: | Dave Thomas |
| E-mail address: | dthomas@sherbtel.net |
| Comments: | Hi to all you former ghost, I was a ghost from 1971 to 1978, except for the short tour of duty at mirimar for the f-14 program. In fact the day I checked into the squadron, we lost an F-4 in the orange grove, and guess who ended up guarding the wreckage that evening. thats right i was one of them. But I would like to hear from all you ghost, and im also looking to buy any pictures, vidios, cruise book. during this time. if anyone has any of these items to sell, please contact me. at my E-mail address. Thank you. Dave Thomas (VMFA-531 HYD. SHOP and QA) |
| Name: | Robert "Bob" Parker |
| E-mail address: | robert.h.parker@navy.mil |
| Comments: | To all trying to reach me I have just one email address presently....I still work for the Navy as a civilian as the APML Escape and Crashworthy R&D...I know it's a long title, but the pay is pretty good....for you Rhino VMFP-3 types I work with Dave Klobnock (david.klobnock@navy.mil) who does "Flight Clearances": for Flight gear and Survival Systems for the Navy & Marine Corps before we send out to the Fleet... |
| Name: | Steve Shimonek |
| E-mail address: | sshimonek@clarian.org |
| Comments: | Anyone remember a Capt Steve Shimonek from the late 50's? |
| Name: | steve e parke |
| E-mail address: | jsapj@fmtcs.com |
| Comments: | I was with 531 72-75 in Flight Equip. Had alot good times and could'nt of served with a better bunch of guys. Great site |
| Name: | dennis fleming |
| E-mail address: | dennyvision@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | I was in VMFA-531 from 1972-1974---electric shop. Samuelson, Spivy, Steve Fike, Bill Hughes, DJ Wells... My kids are always asking me about it. There is a documantary on the Forrestal fire, but I can't recall where I saw it. Anyone know? Dennis (DP) Fleming |
| Name: | Jay Jones (Cpl 1967-71) |
| E-mail address: | jay@jayjones.us |
| Comments: | I was in Maintenance Admin in 531 at El Toro from about 68to 70. Great bunch |
| Name: | bob page |
| E-mail address: | p51linjolly@netscape.net |
| Comments: | joined 531 right out of ae school, Jax. Fla, early 65-stayed till march 66, then got antsy for Nam, got my request, but ended up in Iwakuni for 13 months! ( be careful what you wish for!) 531, in the meantime got deployed to country-go figure. I finally got to Nam, and ended up a door gunner in a "34"-not exactly an electrician on an F4B. Ironicly, when I left Nam, I had 4 months to go-and the blessed Corps sent me back to Cherry Point......and my long lost 531. Proud to have served with the best, even for this short time, miss you Duce, miss you Dino. SEMPER FI |
| Name: | Gunny |
| E-mail address: | jgwebmaster@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Really nice site.... You did the Gray Ghost Squardron honorable justice..... Enjoyed my visit..... Semper Fi Gunny http://captainrobertdkent.homestead.com/ |
| Name: | Mike Crothers |
| E-mail address: | mcrothers2092@msn.com |
| Comments: | I look at my cruise book often and remember you all well...............I was honered to be with the squadron from Cherry Point [1963]to Danang [1965].Have many good memories. Thank you for that |
| Name: | ken klaus sr |
| E-mail address: | crazy1@nemontel.net |
| Comments: | VMFA-531 powerplants new email above |
| Name: | Steve Grinter |
| E-mail address: | evetsg@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | I was in Seat Shop from april 79 til may 82. Went on the west pac on the Coral Sea 79-80. I have served with some really good guys like Gsgt Dennis Shadduck, Bob (bubba) Parker,Tim Streit,Kerry Commings, Don Driver, D.K. Miller, Steve Lundeen, Raul Gonzalez. I retired from the Air Force reserves aug 2004. I saw alot of places with the USAF res. including a tour in Iraq in 2003. But it's the Marine Corps that will always mean the most to me. It made me grow up (some would dispute that)and it gave me self esteem and a sense of direction. It taught me lessons that will last a lifetime. The absolute best decision i ever made in my life. Take care all |
| Name: | RW Royes ams-1 |
| E-mail address: | maroymm@aol |
| Comments: | You've created great sites for all your squadron members.As a former Phantom Phixer,VF-31&VF-74 1974-78,all those F-4 photos are great to view. The one with A/C 207 cross decked on the Ark Royal was highly unsual especially with the royal navy tail colors.I am now working on a 1/72 scale model of the same. Keep it up ! |
| Name: | Robert Haley |
| E-mail address: | bob@v2.net |
| Comments: | Greetings to all Ghosts - I was in 531 from 01-76 ~ 08-78. I was S-1 (remington raider) and I was one hot mess back then. But I sure loved my time with the Gray Ghosts. Great to see some names from the past. |
| Name: | Chris Nichols (Sgt) |
| E-mail address: | cnichols@isd.net |
| Comments: | I came to the Grey Ghost's in January 1988 after two years in LeMoore Ca. The guys in my Powerplants shop were some of the best people I have ever had the priviledge to work with. Two pumps under the U.D.P program made us a great team before I chose the leave the Marine Corps. I hope you are all well and drop me an e-mail if you see this. Currently residing in Apple Valley Minnesota and have been employed with Mesaba Airlines (Northwest Airlink) as a Maintenance Controller for almost 14 years now...Semper Fi.... |
| Name: | Thom Cohee |
| E-mail address: | TCOHEE@UP.COM |
| Comments: | I was a PROUD member of the Ghost. |
| Name: | SSgt R. J. Fox |
| E-mail address: | rocketj1953@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Served with H&MS-11 RADAR supporting Aero1c system on the F4N (VMFA-323, VMFA-314, & VMFA-531) from 1975 until we returned from the Coral Sea in 1980. Worked with Ken Grubel from 531, Ssgt McKusker, Sgt Dave Lopes, Sgt John Pumphrey, Sgt Gary Needham, Sgt Mike Perrigo, Cpl Craig Fenstermaker and the rest of the Snakes. Transferred to NAF Washington DC in support of same for VMFA-321. Anyone remember Pusan, Korea, Subic Bay, Singapore, and 103 days in the IO? E-mail me anytime. Rudy 'rocketj' Fox. |
| Name: | Sp/5 Ron Findlay 1st cav div (ret)65-67 vietnam |
| E-mail address: | findl78@msn.com |
| Comments: | Thanks for the great site and welcome home brother. |
| Name: | J.R. Schmidtke (Smitter) |
| E-mail address: | schmidtke4@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | I served in VMFA 531 from 72-74. I was aviation ordnance and went on the Med cruise as well. Spent some time in El Toro before and after the cruise. I am now a retired (96) Army CW4 helicopter pilot (too bad the Marine Corps didn't have a Warrant Officer flight school program). Just got back from a year in Iraq flying for Blackwater Aviation. The people and times in 531 were the best. I think back often on the many great experiences we shared. The Marine Corps taught me a lot and 531 allowed me to have fun and mature in life. Thanks for all the memories and feel free to write. By the way, does anybody know where Sammy Bradley is? Take care, J.R. (Bulldog) Schmidtke |
| Name: | Lynn J. Maxey |
| E-mail address: | lynnmaxey@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Served with the Grey Ghosts from Jan, 1966 until it was transferred from Cherry Point to El Toro as a AE. Got to fly over 50 hours in the back seat. What a ride. |
| Name: | Mike King |
| E-mail address: | Fredrick.King@usmc.mil |
| Comments: | Its hard to beleve that the "BOAT TRIP " was 32 years ago!! I was with 531 ( Flight Line )from 1968-1969,1971-1974 1979-1983.Going back though the Cruise Book sure brings back all the GOOD TIMES that we had !! THE BEST IN THE WEST! |
| Name: | Sgts Mike Doukas, Mike LaWare |
| E-mail address: | gracelaware@aol.com |
| Comments: | Served 531 Electric(Doukas)/COMNAV (LaWare)shops. Ca 69-70-72. Relaxing with glasses of wine and remembering the good old days at El Toro. Anyone remember what the good old days were? Mike and Mike |
| Name: | William H. [Bill] Tuger |
| E-mail address: | imatigger @earthlink.com |
| Comments: | Served in VMF-n-531 from January 1943 'til July 1945. Spent a year in ths Solomans with PV-1s. Reformed at Eagle Mountain LAKE Texas with F7F's. Shipped out to Okinawa in July 1945 in a flight cadre to reform 533 which had been using F6F's. Served in China winter of 1945/1946. First squadron of F7F;s to go overseas although there was another squadon of F7F's later on Okinawa. |
| Name: | Harvey Atkinson |
| E-mail address: | Atkinsonhl@tns.net |
| Comments: | I am a volunteer at the Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation, MCAS Miramar, San Diego. I am seeking to make contact with William C Hall. I am sure he is a retired Marine officer who served in VMF 531 around 1977. He was a Captain at that time. Any assistance in this regard will be appreciated. |
| Name: | Flanagan , Dan |
| E-mail address: | uachtartir@aol |
| Comments: | I was Plane Capt, on F7Fs 51-52 at Cherry Point. I wonder if there are a few others still about? I was mainly on nite crew and remember eating well at Bough Field on liberated horsecock as Mess Sgt tried to catch us! I believe the OD was Lt. Jackson supplied the beer! |
| Name: | Eric J. (Smitty) Smith |
| E-mail address: | baseballcity@msn.com |
| Comments: | Wow!! Past to the past. I was just surfing as my son is about to join a service and decided to look up some "Ghost" hauntings. I saw Steiny, Hendo, Koz and a few others. I was in RADAR/IWT 82-85. I am still great friends with Scott Sampson (red on the head, oh you guys know the rest). I had some great times with you guys. I see Pep is still around. Email me please! I would love to chat. Where is Sasaki, Cobos, Gunny Smith and the rest? |
| Name: | Kenneth Smith |
| E-mail address: | ksmith855@cfl.rr.com |
| Comments: | I was in VMF(N)531 in 1946 as an RO in training in the F7F-3N. Later went to 542 on the West Coast and the joined 533 in Hawaii (1947-51) It is great to re-connect in the reunion group. |
| Name: | Mario Mneir |
| E-mail address: | mmenir@aol.com |
| Comments: | Anyone out there that served from 78-81 for the Ghosts call me at 386-503-4317. Cannot remember better times then the ones we had. |
| Name: | GySgt Samuel Dunn |
| E-mail address: | dunnsc@3maw.usmc.mil |
| Comments: | Ghost Town!! Now that brings back memories! Wow that was so long ago. Anyways, still in the Corps with 2 years until I retire. I served with the Ghost's from 87-89. Did the UDP during that time. Two months in the PI. Those were the days. Worked in Electric shop. The CO at the time was LtCol Goodman. Now MajGen Goodman. The AMO was Capt Weiderbrook. Now Col Weiderbrook, CO MAG 11. Guys like Wally Gator and Smokin Joe Hennesy were my first role models. Maybe that's why I'm so screwed up now. Keep the site going. Five Thirty Fun was the finest squadron I've had the pleasure to be in. |
| Name: | MSgt Tom DiDonato Ret. |
| E-mail address: | tdidonato@synergentcorp.com |
| Comments: | A long time ago, in a century past I belonged. I joined 531 straight out of Memphis 1968. It was not ot long before the change over to VMFAT201. Is anyone out there from that time? |
| Name: | steve flohr |
| E-mail address: | sdflohr@comcast.net |
| Comments: | TME'd in 81,great time, Ski,Zack and Gunney Melby Hope your all well and the others who's names escape me. |
| Name: | Terry Telder |
| E-mail address: | bethcleo@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Served with VMFaw531 in 1960-61-62 in Cherry Pt.,Atsugi,Okinawa,Subic Bay------Flight Equip shop.Looking for old friends from those days, pilots,and all other members. I saw Roger Thelens name in the questbook, but can't get you with the email address given. Our CO was Rip Collins What a great bunch of people. We have a reunion in Reno in Oct. of 2005. Lets get together, and see how we look now?????!!!! |
| Name: | Gary Rodriguez |
| E-mail address: | rodrigug@comcast.net |
| Comments: | It was great to find this webpage and see my brother Grey Ghosts. I served in VMFA-531 from 86-90 (Yechon,Cobra Gold, Team Spirit)in Maintenance Control. If you find your way to this webpage would look forward hearing from you. Rod "Rodriguez" |
| Name: | Dwight Andrews |
| E-mail address: | deandrewsjr@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was a Cpl in VMFA-531's Radar Shop (F-4B Phantom) from Feb 1974 until the decommissioning in 1975. Then I was a Sgt with VMFA-314 (Black Knights) Radar Shop until I got out in Aug 1978. I remember Gunny AJ Salt and his rail dragster at his retirement party in front of the hanger. I've spent the last 22 years with Lockheed Martin at NASA's Johnson Space Center supporting avionics and biomedical electronics projects for manned space flight. I spent Aug 2002 - Jan 2003 at Camp Doha, Kuwait supporting Operation Desert Spring with the Army's 7/6 CAV Squadron maintaining the AH-64A Apache attack helicopter avionics and weapons systems as the Avionics Shop Supervisor. |
| Name: | William Snyder |
| E-mail address: | mickey97978@msn.com |
| Comments: | Was a P/C with VMFA 531 from 1972 thru Aug. 1974 My thoughts have returned to those days and the guys who shared them with me many times through the years. I've missed you all. |
| Name: | Dave Thomas |
| E-mail address: | dthomas@sherbtel.com |
| Comments: | I served with vmfa-531 from 71 to 78, except for the short visit to the f-14 program. Thanks for all the good times and memories. I would like to hear from you all. I retired from the airforce reserve in 97, with 24 years total service. I now work for northwest airlines, been there for 20 years, here in minneapolis minn. |
| Name: | William Snyder |
| E-mail address: | asnyder@op-f.org |
| Comments: | Hi my name is Alisandra. I am Bill Snyder's daughter. I am working on a scrap book for him for Christmas. He was with the Gray Ghost 1972 until 1974 when he left the service. He did the Med trip on the USS Forrestal 72-73. Before he was with the Gray Ghost he was with the Death Rattlers 71-72. I am looking for anyone that knew him during his time in the Marine's. please email me. |
| Name: | Daniel Lopez |
| E-mail address: | dlopez@plind.com |
| Comments: | Did Med-Cruise 72-73 USS Forrestal. I would like to hear from former Marines. |
| Name: | Tim Sprouse |
| E-mail address: | n4cnu@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Thanks guys, one and all present and past. I live as a free man who's freedom was bought and paid for by others in service to our country. Semper Fi |
| Name: | Mark S. Strehlau |
| E-mail address: | strehlau@charter.net |
| Comments: | H&MS 13 January 71-March 1971. VMFA 531, MCAS EL Toro March 1971-March 1972, NAS Oceania Va. March 1972-September 1972. Med cruise September 1972- July 1973. MCAS El Toro CA. July 1973-June 1974. Separation Jun 08, 1974 MCAS El Toro. Thats all folks! |
| Name: | Robert Miley |
| E-mail address: | madbob2001@aol.com |
| Comments: | Where has all the power plants people run off to? Arnold "AL" Garcia, J.R. "Jarusha" Burgess, Steve "Steamboat" West. Bob Miley, USMC Ret |
| Name: | David Rivera |
| E-mail address: | drivera@pascuayaquitribe.org |
| Comments: | Served with the Grey Ghost Electric Shop late ,81 and 82. Glad to have come across this site. I can still smell the jet fuel. Hello to everyone! |
| Name: | P. Rex Ramirez |
| E-mail address: | Pruben.R.Ramirez@usa-spaceops.com |
| Comments: | Great website! Looking for any one who served when I did. Boot: 1st Bn, C co, Plt.1003. VMFA 451 Warlords (1991-1993) VMFA(AW)533 (1993-1995) and VMFA(AW)225 (1995-1996). Semper Fi MARINES! |
| Name: | Cpl Christopher Laver |
| E-mail address: | ChristopherLaver@msn.com |
| Comments: | I was a member of VMFA-531, Ordnance Department, from 1978 to 1980. I am proud to have been part of such a historic fighter squadron and the best group of devil dog's in the Corp. Semper Fi |
| Name: | Sam Garrison |
| E-mail address: | dodysam@aol.com |
| Comments: | I served as Night Flightline Chief (12AM until cessation of flight operations) at Cherry Point in 1956. |
| Name: | Pete Davinson |
| E-mail address: | pa_pete@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I served in VMFA-531 Ordnance from 6/90 until its decommissioning. By far the best bunch of marines and people that you would ever want to meet. I would love to hear from anyone in during that era; especially any ordies, Griswell(s4), Rundle (powerline), Harrison (metal shop) and Capt. Ash. Semper Fi, Ghosts. |
| Name: | Steve R. Allen |
| E-mail address: | kb9wsq@ameritech.net |
| Comments: | I served with 531 as a plane captain from 72 to 74. Went to the Med on the USS Forrestal. I have two grown children, one of each. Have been employed as a truck mechanic since 75. Would like to hear from anyone I served with. SEMPER FI.. |
| Name: | stuart a. lahey |
| E-mail address: | stuart_lahey@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I served with VMFA-531 in 64-66 as electrician @ Cherry Point, NC., Boca Chica, FL, ATSUGI & DANANG. Always good times with Terry Olsen and the guys at East Camp in ATSUGI. A GREAT BAND OF BROTHERS ALWAYS LOOKING OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER ALWAYS IN MY HEART. BACK HOME IN CANADA OUR PRIDE IN THE CORPS IS NOT UNDERSTOOD AS IT IS IN THE USA. WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY OLD 531 GUYS ANYTIME . |
| Name: | John Postiglione |
| E-mail address: | john.postiglione@duke.edu |
| Comments: | Served with VMFA 531 as it was being reconstituted at El Toro under Lt Col Pappy Perez from Aug 68 to Aug 69 before shipping to RVN. Served with VMFA 542 Sep 69 to date they transpacked in Feb 70(?) went FAC with 1st Bn 5th Marines until Jun70 then MABS before leaving in Sep 70. Finished out in Beaufort MABS to Oct 71. |
| Name: | Art Kelly |
| E-mail address: | kellymag24@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I served with 531 57-58 in the Hyd shop,F3Ds and F4Ds. I did the 1959 Med Cruise with 114 on the old Roosevelt CVA42. Currently the exchange NCO for the Alumni Org. We have pins, patches, tee shirts, hats, and decals. Email me for info and prices. Semper Fi, All Weather Kelly |
| Name: | Kevin Burke |
| E-mail address: | kburke100@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Wow....cool to see all these names. I was a "G G Rocker" from 84-88 in Radar. That included the Yechon Campout. I believe for a while we called in the Far East Hackey Sack Bar Surfing Tour 88. Remember getting the DJs to play Wipe-Out anyone ?? Geez....How many bars did we break stuff in ?? I saw Johnny Saenz's name. Hey Johnny, How's my nephew Jack ?? Remember surfing the sign at the Scorpion Beer Bar in Osan with Chainsaw and Chris Bishop when it broke and we almost fell down into the street? So many great memories. How about Cobra Gold in Pattaya ? Anybody that I served with should feel free to drop me a line. Those were some of the very best days....weren't they ?? |
| Name: | Lazo Ilich |
| E-mail address: | coyoteboy3@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | Grey Ghost from 85-89. Nice to see some familiar names on this site. I have always been proud of being a ghost. They never deserved being decomissioned. Im still in contact with many people from my era. Hallen, Doug Jordan, Somborovich, Albl, Rolfe, Amy Rhea, several others. I need to know more about the planned reunion. I also have had polo shirts made with the logo and an optional F-18 on the sleeve. If you are interested, email me. |
| Name: | Dennis Coochyouma |
| E-mail address: | dgcooch@gilanet.net |
| Comments: | I was in the Ground Support Equipment Shop in '68. Received orders in early December'68 for FMFPac WestPac MarAirFor. In '69, I had the opportunity to fly in Huey Gunships (VMO-6) along the DMZ (I Corps). About a year and a half ago, I downloaded the photo of "Double Nuts" as one of my screensavers. Great photo! I sometimes wonder if the Marine who took the photo and I know each other. Semper Fi, my Brothers. Cooch. |
| Name: | Alan J. Sarnowski |
| E-mail address: | ajsar531vmfa@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Have a new email address. left last message 17dec2001 531 was a great place to be lots good memories. |
| Name: | Marvin Bush |
| E-mail address: | gysgt@cox.net |
| Comments: | Been so long ago, I served with 531 GRAY GHOST SQUADRON back in 1947 with the Ordnance Department as a PVT. I got out in 48. Reinlisted and retired with 22 years active duty. |
| Name: | Gordon R. Muncy |
| E-mail address: | GRMuncy@aol.com |
| Comments: | I was in 531 when I retired in '67 as a GySgt 6511 |
| Name: | Anton Stucky |
| E-mail address: | astucky@juno.com |
| Comments: | I am enjoying this website immensely. My sister's husband was a pilot in Squadron VMF(N)-531. I have a picture of him and six other members of the Squadron, with one of the PV-1 planes in the background, taken at Vella La Vella Island November, 1944. |
| Name: | Steve "Mudd Man" Ingalls |
| E-mail address: | singalls@pclient.ml.com |
| Comments: | VMFA 451 Warlords (1990-1994) powerline. Great site,looking for any leather necks who served with me or who I knew. Send e-mail with 451 is subject field. Semper Fi, Ingalls |
| Name: | MARK MUGU |
| E-mail address: | mugu@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I LOVE THIS PAGE PLS KEEP IT UP! |
| Name: | Mark Kozma |
| E-mail address: | makozma@wowway.com |
| Comments: | Two items. First I have a new e-mail address so take note. Second the 2004 Gray Ghost reunion in San Diego in Sept. I'm looking for all the plane captains from 83 to 86. Its been 20 years since we took over the El Toro flightline with our fresh from the factory Hornets, lets all show up in San Diego and have fun laughing about the past and catch up on whats happened since. Whether you can make it to the reunion or not, I would like to here from you. And if anyone has addresses, phone numbers or e-mail addresses of anyone who served in the squadron from 83 to 86 I would appreciate it if you would send me those. I would really like to get a big group from our era to show in Sept. We might even get LtCol Nisley to buy a few rounds! Check in with me soon so we can coordinate our invasion. KOZ |
| Name: | William H. Ropp |
| E-mail address: | wilder11354@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Served with Grey Ghosts 1973 thru 1975, then on to VMFA-235. Beleive there is a pic of me washing one of the F4N's that we got out of refurb shortly before squadron was got notice to decomission, to upgrade to F-18's. http://home.inreach.com/vmfa531/photos/F4%20Phantom-14.html Was a rebel without a cause back then. Thank You for the Memories!!! All good, even when i thought I couldn't stand it!! Semper Fi. |
| Name: | Lonnie (Max) Maxwell GySgt (Ret.) |
| E-mail address: | lrmaxwell@fnf.com |
| Comments: | Served in Powerplants/Powerline from 81 - 85. Lots of good memories with some of the finest Marines in the world. I drive by the base once in a while, and it truly is "Ghost Town". Would love to hear from anybody I served with. I'll buy us a couple of rounds and we can re-live the good times. |
| Name: | Stephen Bergeson |
| E-mail address: | srbco@aracnet.com |
| Comments: | I joined VMFA-531 in 1975 after the F-14 Program for us was stopped. I was in the Flight Equipment untill I was trasferred up to H&ms Parachute Loft in 1978. The Gray Ghosts was the best F-4 squadron I was in. -Semper Fi |
| Name: | Tim"Gator"Adams |
| Comments: | Hello all Over the years, exchange officers from the U.S. Air Force, the Royal Air Force, Canadian Air Force, and the Royal Australian Air Force have augmented the squadron. Their efforts along with the efforts of all the men and women that have served in this squadron over the years have earned them the right to be called Grey Ghosts. With 45,000 hours, and 8 years of class A mishap free flight their contributions and sacrifices have led to a squadron who sets and maintains the highest of standards and epitomizes the “can-do” spirit. VMFA531 has built a record of achievement, readiness, and espirit that is second to none. Ghost Town bids you farewell. "In my heart, I know 531 will see action again, only time will tell, but I know our reputation will bring us back to the forefront again.” Lt. Gen (Ret) Keith A. Smith. The 'Grey Ghosts' of VMFA-531 were decommissioned on 27 March 1992. From the pages of history into, the virtual world… A Marine, call sign “Spike” with 13th MEU founded the virtual VMFA-531 in 1999 flying Jane’s F/A 18. “Coyote” took the roll as the Executive Officer. We took the name of the Grey Ghosts of (V) VMFA-531 do to it being deactivated. As we all know, real life enters in and Spike was called away to serve overseas leaving Coyote in command and Raptor as the Executive Officer. At the time, Gator, our current Commanding Officer was but a young, wet behind the ears “second lieutenant”. After a short period in the virtual world of the 0311 (Ghost Recon) and the waning amount of virtual Marine Aviators the (V) VMFA-531 stood down with Raptor in command and Batman as the Executive Officer. Two months passed as Gator was “on leave”, he returned to find that the squadron was in a stand down mode of operation. Coyote was contacted by Gator and asked if like the Phoenix, the Virtual VMFA-531 could be raised from the ashes and fly once more. Coyote’s reply, “Hell yes!” And with that, on November 10th 2000 the Virtual VMFA-531 began to fly once more. Here we are, entering our fifth year as a virtual Marine squadron, now, the only one online flying Jane’s F/A 18. The success of our online squadron doesn’t go to any one person in it, but to the group acting as one, a team, so to speak. That group, throughout the years has grown to be one of the finest “flying” squadrons there is. Our numbers seem to average around fifteen to twenty active pilots at any given time. Aviators come and some go but the core element of the Virtual 531 has remained with Gator and Raptor still around Gator as the Commanding Officer and now DevilDog as the Executive Officer. There are others too that make up our “chain of command”, Raptor INTEL O, Fish OPS O, Ghost Assist. OPS O, Scorpio ADMIN O and the list goes on, but if you’d like to come to know whom the rest of our aviators are look here. http://www.virtualfighters.us/ We’d like to hope that our virtual existence flying as the Grey Ghosts of VMFA-531 we honor those that came before us in the real world. Semper Fi Ghost VMFA-531 Flight Line 1978-82 |
| Name: | Toby Boshell |
| E-mail address: | biasb@uchaf.demon.co.uk |
| Comments: | I was very moved when I discovered that you had used my father's poem "The Aeroplane" on your website - particularly when I found out what OJC is about. Not knowing the fate of a comrade, a loved one, a family member or a friend is not a situation that I have experienced myself, so I cannot say 'I know how you feel' I can only imagine. I can only hope in my heart that you all find that which you seek and offer my support and my prayers. Yours sincerely Toby Boshell |
| Name: | Mike Metzger |
| E-mail address: | m.metzger@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Home with my youngest (3 who has cancer) and was just looking. Started out with 531 then was transfered to 314, just down the road. Saw a few names I remembered, Joe-Bob. Great times. Times you never forget. |
| Name: | Robin Richards |
| E-mail address: | robinr@netassoc.net |
| Comments: | I was on the 72 Med cruise in radar shop. Gunny Salt didn't like me much so I did a lot of details with the Navy(mess duty, flight deck control etc etc). No one has mentioned the CNO safety award, top RIO(Gunner Bardon) top plane captain in the Navy, all during the cruise. Best time of my life. |
| Name: | Michael O'Neill |
| E-mail address: | oneill2507@charter.net |
| Comments: | I served from 73-74 on the forrest fire then back to sunny california . BEST DAMN squadron ever. AJ Salt was running the flight line and taught me much about life,F4s and drag raceing over at OCIR best damn memories. My memory sucks does anyone rember Lt Peck, or Capt Moore? 2 of my favorite pilots. I got transfered to the hole VMCJ-3 & then overseas to Iwakuni,in cooler J-1 got sent tad to Da Nang during clean up and evac. back to El Toro in P cry baby 3 back to japan on the midway CVA-41 tad of course yeah I was a hot head and pissed off the lifers all the time. But I would'nt change a thing Oh if any one knows Robert boom boom cannon from peoria I'd love to talk to him. |
| Name: | Roger(Ernie)Thelen |
| E-mail address: | res0tdjx@verizon.com |
| Comments: | Was in 531 '60','61'and '62'. Cherry Point,Atsugi,Iwakuni, Okinawa and Subic Bay(Talungan Ops). Would like to hear from anyone from the squadron from that time. Rip Collins was the CO. What a bunch of hard working,playing and sometimes fighting bunch of Jarheads of every description. |
| Name: | Jeff "BUCK" Buchanan |
| E-mail address: | redhwk44@mchsi.com |
| Comments: | I was a citizen of Ghost Town from '84-'86, Electric shop.Did the Bright Star to Egypt. Fun ride. I couldn't believe it when I found this site. I saw a lot of names I had not thought of in a long time. Scott Henderson. Mark Fisher.Anyone heard from Rich "WOLF" Wolski? |
| Name: | Doug Brander |
| E-mail address: | datamaster69@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Good to see a site for the Greatest Marine Corps Fighter Squadron ever to hit the deck! Never seen such a hard working dedicated bunch of nuts. Where is everyone now? Anyone hear from Kaitting, Flood, Neidner, Flock? This isn't just an enlisted site is it? HeHe! |
| Name: | Joe Gubbins |
| E-mail address: | jxgubbins@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I was a member of VMFA-531 from 1977 to 1978. Worked in Maint Admin with Ron Parker, SSgt Lambert and LT. Ogden. Had some great times and remember a lot of the people I served with. Anyone who was there when I was feel free to drop me a line. SEMPER FI. |
| Name: | Joe Jendrasiak (Zack) |
| E-mail address: | jjendrasiak@yahoo .com |
| Comments: | Electric shop 1980-1983, Joined the Squadron just after their cruise on the Corral Sea. |
| Name: | Gary "Scorpio" Figueredo |
| E-mail address: | lfiguere@columbus.rr.com |
| Comments: | I was crusin around looking for 323_deathrattler Marine images for our Combined Forces with the USVMC (United States Virtual Marine Corp)Virtual Squadron. Since you are hosting this page for the Gray Ghost, I just wanted to make sure I was on the same page as to information leading to Flight Squadron 531_Grey Ghost.... If you have any questions, you can contact me at the address posted above.... |
| Name: | Andre (Frenchy) Monzain |
| E-mail address: | AMonzain@aol.com |
| Comments: | I joined VMF(N)-531 (MAG-24) at Cherry Point, Feb. 1952, until tranferred to VMF-114 (also MAG-24)for overseas deployment, later than year. In that period 531 transitioned from F7F Grumman Tigercats to F3D Douglas Skyknights. Anyone from my time frame out there ? If so, contact me to rehash old times... |
| Name: | Dick Lowe |
| E-mail address: | ralowe50@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I am the membership chairman for the Gray Ghost Squadron of the MCAA. If anyone is interested in joining our organization of former members of VMFA-531,VMF(AW)531,or VMF(N)531 please email me. Our membership totals around 234 as of 4-14-2003. I was a member from 1963-1966 and worked in the parachute shop. Semper Fi |
| Name: | Jeffrey Steinberg |
| E-mail address: | steinberg_j@msn.com |
| Comments: | These were some great times, '80 to '87. I was in 531's Radar Shop with F4's then transitioned to IWT with F18's. It was great seeing the other's I had the pleasure of working with on this board! |
| Name: | Dave Barnet |
| E-mail address: | Barnetd@pnw.med.navy.mil |
| Comments: | I was the last Corpsman with 531 on WestPac 91 and the decommissioning, Still one the best assignments this "Doc" has ever had. By far the best squadron around... |
| Name: | Mark S. Strehlau |
| E-mail address: | ms1@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | VMFA 531 Airframe division, Power Plants shop 1971-1974 U.S.S. Forrestal CVA 59 1972-73 Med cruise. |
| Name: | Scott Gardner |
| E-mail address: | Wallyman50@aol.com |
| Comments: | I was a proud member of the Gray Ghost during the 72 Med. Cruise and am wondering if any of my friends are out there. |
| Name: | Glenn Stover MSgt (Ret) |
| E-mail address: | xlhsporty@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hey There fellow ghosts! I served as a ghost from 1982-1985 in Seat Shop and QA. I now work on the T-45C in Mississippi. Semper Fi Glenn (Smokey) Stover |