VP-5 Squadron Shipmates
http://www.vpnavy.org
VPNAVY Address

ShipmateVP-68 ShipmatesShipmate

ALLHOFF, CWO3 Thomas Retired tomallhoff@gmail.com "...I served with NAS Memphis, Tennessee (1972-1973), NAS North Island, San Diego, California (1973-1975) AIMD, NAS Miramar (1975-1976) AIMD, VP-31 (1976-1977) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-50 (1977-1979) at NAS Moffett Field, California, NAMTRAGRU 1012 (1979-1982) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-50 (1982-1986) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-31 (1986-1989) at NAS Moffett Field, California, VP-68 (1989-1992) at NAF Washington, D.C., VP-22 (1992-1994) at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and VP-68 (1994-1995) at NAF Washington, D.C.. I retired from the Navy in 1995 and am currently living in York, Pennsylvania. I welcome the chance to catch up with old Shipmates. They say less than 3% have answered the call to serve their country throughout history, Karen and I thank all of you and your families for your service and for your sacrifice..." [BIO Updated 01OCT2020 | BIO Updated 24OCT2012 | E-Mail Updated 28APR2012 | E-Mail Updated 26MAY2004 | E-Mail Updated 18DEC2002 | BIO Updated 16SEP99 | 11JAN99]

ANDERSON, PN1 Etta Retired eande84258@aol.com "...I had quite a few duty stations but my most fondest memory was becoming a Black Hawk stationed at NAF Washington, D.C. located at NAF Andrews, Maryland with VP-68 and being a part of the P-3 Orion family..." [08JUN2009]

ANDINO, LCDR J. Michael Martinez de https://naval-air.org/flightlog/moreinfo.asp?UID=384 "...LCDR J. Michael Martinez de Andino, USNR - NFL Number: 384 - Date of Birth: 3/2/1955 - Date In: 12/21/1977 - Date Out: 1/1/1901 - City, State: St. Joseph, MO - School Attended: Univ of Virginia - Aircraft Flown: T-34C, T-44A, P-3CU, P-3B, T-34B - Ship or Unit: VP-9, VP-68 and Navy Recruiting Comm - Pilot Desg.: Patrol Plane Cdr - Associations/Service Organizations: Assn of Nav Aviation - Significant Achievements: 1800 hrs flt time. 2 deployments in WESTPAC & 1 to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. MBA from College of William and Mary. J.D. from University of Kansas. In Memoriam? No..." [08DEC2005]

APOSTOLICO, AWC(AP) Vince Retired VApostolic@AOL.COM "...VP-8 CAC 12 SS-3 (P-3A) 1967 to 1970; VP-66 (P-2V) 1970; VP-68 CAC 4 (Skypigs) SS-3 (P-3B, B-MOD, C) 1972 to 1993...Retired 12/31/93 (HYT)...Zero-Dark-Thirty Preflights...All Night Patrols...Low Leval Localizing with Sea States of 10...Weather Avoidance During Long Transits (The Senior Chief [F/E] Absolutely HATES Flying Through Rough Waether)...How Could Anyone NOT Miss This?..." [25MAR98]

ARNOLD, Daniel Roy djarnold@searnet.com "...Want to say hello to everyone that was in VP-68 with me. I just found this on the internet and recognized some names. I'm still in the reserves at VR-48 in Washington. Drop me a line. I miss the good dets..." [31DEC98]

ASHBY, James R. (Jim) jrashby@us.hsanet.net "...I was in VP-68 from 1975 to 1980 as an AX2 and a radio operator. I changed rates to AE, went to VR-51 in NAS Glenview, Illinois, and flew as a flight engineer on the C-118. I then returned to regnav and took an asignment in Iceland where I flew the last C-118 in the Navy. I came back to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to VQ-4 and flew TACAMO for three years. I then did two years at the Naval Aviation Maintenance Office. When Desert Shield was announced I requested a transfer to the USS Midway and managed to make it to Desert Storm. I returned with the ship to Japan and began to prepare the ship for decommissioning. We brought the ship to San Diego where we completed the task and it seemed a good time to retire so I returned to NAMO at Pax and retired as an AEC. 22911 Gunston Dr., Lexington Park, MD. 301-863-5358..." [28MAR98]

AUTH, CWO4 Les Retired ldauth@twc.com "...I served with VP-661 / VP-68A-2 / VP-68 (1966-1972), VP-62 (1973-1979) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, ASWOC/TSC/TSC 0374 (1982-1998) where I retired..." [E-Mail Updated 27MAR2019 | E-Mail Updated 13SEP2014 | 21AUG2001]

Memorial Picture "...AUTH, AWCM Ron Retired...AWCM AUTH passed away July 15th, 2023...AWCM AUTH passed away July 15th, 2023. He served with VP-661 (1960-1967) and VP-68 (1967-1990)..." Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [14DEC2023]

AUTH, AWCM Ron Retired blkhwk14@comcast.net "...I served with VP-661 (1960-1967) and VP-68 (1967-1990)..." [28NOV2015]


Memorial Picture "...BAILEY, AWC Wyman Retired...AWC BAILEY passed away August 21st, 2020. He served with VP-68 (1979-1991)..." Contributed by Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [14DEC2023]

BAILEY, AWC Wyman Retired baileyintl@msn.com "...I PROUDLY SERVED WITH VP-68 AT PATUXENT RIVER AND ANDEWS AIRFORCE BASE FROM 1979 TIL 1991 AS AN SS3 OPERATOR..."

Memorial Picture "...BAKER, AD1 Jack Retired...AD1 BAKER passed away January 17th, 2018. He served with VP-68..." Contributed by Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [14DEC2023]

BAKER, Jack flighten@doitnow.com "...Retired AD1 from VP-68 in Sep 1990 currently employed by America West Airlines as a Maintenance Superviser at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix AZ..." [06MAR99]

BAYLESS, REAR ADMIRAL Jon W. Jr. http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/people/flags/biographies/baylessjw.html "...Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in May 1979 with a degree in Systems Engineering. He was designated a Naval Aviator in April of 1981 and completed Fleet Replacement training at VP-30 in November of that same year. From December 1981 to December 1984, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless was assigned to VP-16 in NAS Jacksonville, Florida. During his tour he was designated a Patrol Plane Commander and Mission Commander making deployments to NAS Bermuda, NS Rota, Spain, and NAS Keflavik, Iceland. The "War Eagles" were recognized with a Battle E, the Golden Wrench, and three Meritorious Unit Commendations during this period. In January of 1985, he reported to VT-27 in NAS Corpus Christi, Texas as an Instructor Pilot in the T-34C Mentor. As a Flight Leader and solo check pilot, he instructed in Basic Familiarization, Radio Instruments, Night Navigation, and Precision Acrobatics. After affiliating with the Naval Reserve, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless reported to the "Executioners" of VP-93 in November of 1989 at NAF Detroit, Michigan. During this tour, he served as Department Head for Administration, Operations, and Maintenance. He led armed patrols in Operation Sharp Guard supporting UN sanctions against the former Yugoslav Republics and also flew sorties during Support Democracy and Able Manner supporting the UN sanctioned embargo of Haiti. With the disestablishment of VP-93, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless received orders in the spring of 1994 to VP-68 at NAF Andrews, Maryland. He served as an Executive Assistant and then as the Executive Officer of the "Black Hawks". While attached to VP-68, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless supported multiple operations throughout the Mediterranean and the Caribbean to include counter narcotics missions from Roosevelt Roads, Key West, and Howard AFB in Panama. In June of 1996, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless reported aboard VP-66 in NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, as the PCO and took command the following month. The "Liberty Bells" won the CNO Safety Award for 1996 and 1997 as well as the MPA International Symposium Competition for ASW Excellence during his tenure. In November of 1997, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless assumed the duties of Executive Officer NR CINCUSNAVEUR 513 (CNE 513) at Great Lakes, Ill. The command received the Leo V. Bilger Award for outstanding Surface Augment Unit that year. During this period, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless was selected to become the first East Coast Facilitator of the Navy's Culture Workshop process representing COMNAVAIRLANT. His next assignment was CO of NR Tactical Support Center 472 (TSC 472) from October 1998 to September of 1999. TSC 472 provided watch officers for NATO Operations Allied Force and Noble Anvil from TSC Sigonella in support of highly visible Balkan missions. Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless then commanded NR Battle Group Staff Eight (BGS-8) at Forest Park, Ill., from October 1999 to September 2001. While supporting COMCRUDESGRU EIGHT, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless deployed with IKEBATGRU and also served as the Deputy JFACC for Unified Endeavor. He subsequently took command of NR CINCUSNAVEUR Joint Task Force Contingency Unit 413 (CNE JTFCU 413) in October 2001. During this command tour, Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless was recalled to active duty from April 2002 to March 2003 as Deputy Commander, Task Force Five Seven at NAVCENT NSA Bahrain in support of Enduring Freedom. He was nominated for Flag rank in February 2003. Among his awards are four Meritorious Service Medals and the Navy Achievement Medal. He has attended the National Defense University's NATO Staff Officer Course, the Reserve Components National Security Course, and CINCLANTFLT's Senior Officer Course. Rear Adm. (Sel.) Bayless is also the Vice President of the Detroit Metro Chapter of the Navy League and has sat on numerous promotion and selection boards. In his civilian occupation, he is an AIRBUS 320 Captain for Northwest Airlines..." [01JUN2003]

BECK, CAPTAIN Tom Retired tombeck84@gmail.com "...I served with VP-24 (1986-1990), VP-68 (1993-1995) at NAF Andrews, Maryland, VP-66 (1995-2000) at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, NAS Keflavik, Iceland, United States European Command (EUCOM) in Germany, 6th Fleet at NAF Naples, Italy and retired from the reserves in 2014. I live in Annapolis MD (301.461.1366)..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 18JAN2019 | 06JUN99]

BENTON, AT1 John Retired bentonj456@gmail.com "...Here it is May 2022 and it's already been 27 years since I retired. Unbelievable how time flies. My career following A school graduation included a short stint with VA-205 in 1975, then on to VA-34 in A-6E's, culminating in two med cruises aboard the USS JFK by August 1977. Went on to VR-54 Detachment NAS Atlanta, Georgia flying C-118's as a FCO and Flight Attendant until 1981 (Plank Owner with VR-46 at NAS Atlanta, Georgia), when I moved up to VR-52 at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Stayed almost until the very end with the C-118's and got snatched up just in January 1985 by VP-66 at the "Grove". Flew P-3A & B's as an FCO with VP-66, then VP-68 at NAF Washington, D.C. until 1992 when I moved back to NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania and finished my career at the Naval Air Reserve ASW Training Center (RESASWTRACEN) retiring in April 1995. Since then life has been very good. Fully retired as of May 2021..." [E-MAIL/BIO Updated 23MAY2022 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 23JUN2007 | 19APR2003]

Memorial Picture "...BLACKWELDER, PO1 Bruce L...I must sadly report that my brother, Bruce L Blackwelder, passed away June 18, 2020. Bruce proudly served with VP-68..." Contributed by Teresa Blackwelder debuyst84@gmail.com [08SEP2020]

BLOODWORTH, AWC Patrick K. Retired flynavyp3s@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-94, VP-65 and VP-68 and retired in 2005..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 08APR2014 | 31AUG97]

BOUSLEY, AFCM(AW) Patrick Retired afcmpat@netzero.com "...I served with VP-68 from August 1971 to May 1976, VP-60 from May 1976 to May 1980, VP-94 from June 1980 to September 1980, NAS New Orleans, Louisiana from September 1980 to October 1984, COMNAVAIRESFOR from October 1984 to August 1989, VF-201 from September 1989 to January 1993, CVWR-20 from January 1993 to March 1996, COMNAVAIRESFOR at NAS New Orleans, Louisiana from March 1996 to November 1998 and NMCRC at Houston from December 1998 to May 2002. I retired May 2002 after 30 years of active duty. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 26MAR2011 | BIO/E-Mail Updated 07JUL2002 | 14FEB98]

BRITTLE, Scott scott_brittle@hotmail.com "...Hi Shipmates. I served in six VP units, VP-47 1981-1984, VP-31 1985-1987, VP-62 1987-1990, OINC of VP-68 1990-1992, Training Officer COMRESPATWINGPAC 1992-1994, CO/XO VP-91 1994-1996. Great to see so many VP Sailors on the WEB..."

BROWN, AO2 Joseph funnyfire7@gmail.com "...I served with VP-66 and VP-68 as a Aircrew and NATOPS Instructor..." [27FEB2012]

BRUNDAGE, LCDR/AMHC Joe joeslonghorns@earthlink.net "...I served with VP-67 1972-74 P2V F/E (FCPC), VP-68 1974-79 P-3 F/E, VP-62 1979-80 P-3 F/E and VP-45 1981-1984 MMCO. Had lots of engines go sour in P2s. Once had a triple engine fire in a P2, one recip and both jets, at night. P-3 was like a palace after the P2. Really missed the flying after I got commissioned. F/E is the best job there is..." [12MAR2005]

BRZEG, AW1 Victor vshoreline@netscape.net "...I served with VP-8 (1983-1988), VX-1 (1988-1991), VP-93 (1991-1993), VP-68 (1993-1995), VP-64 (1995-1999), and TSC-1173 (1999-2002). I was on LC-81 on 15FEB85 when it crashed in Rota Spain. I was in the starbord observer set when it crashed. A fellow Shipmate AW2 Philbrick was in the port observer seat. I could plainly see the #3 engine bounce over the wing.....what a ride. Drop a line some time..." [05DEC2002]

BUCKALOO, Gary gbuckaloo@yahoo.com "...Hello to all my Blackhawk brothren. When I left VP-68 I went to NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-62. Now I'm at RATCEN. Things are not to bad. Feel free to contact me. Always nice to hear a familiar voice..." [24MAY2000]


CAHILL, Kevin R. kevin1fe@aol.com "...I retired after spending all 26 years in P-3 Orions. I was lucky to have spent all my tours in great squadrons. Started my flying career as a second mech in VP-44, 71-75, then moved on to become a TAR in VP-92. Qualified as a Flight Engineer Jan 76. Orders then to VP-69 from 79-82. A follow on tour back to VP-92 from 82-87. Moved from there to VP-68 from 87-91. Didn't have enough so went back "home" to VP-92 from 91-96 when I finally retired to a great job as an Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA in Boston. As I look back did it all from pumping a grease gun on the flight line, to Maintenance Chief, all while in a flying billet. Logged almost 9000 flight hours as a P-3 FE and am proud of it. In my later years as the MMCPO I was extremely proud of the maintenance folks that gave the extra effort to get the aircraft "up". The best part was when I preflighted then flew the aircraft on a PMCF. Usually never having a gripe to write up when we were done. The VP-Navy was my Navy and am proud to have been a part of it. Thanks Shipmates!..." [07FEB98]

CALLEJO, CDR Joseph S. callejojoe@gmail.com "...I served with VP-1 from 1983 to 1986 and VP-68 from 1987 to 1997. It is always great to run into old Shipmates. It was a great squadron because we had great people. Thanks everyone for those years. I am now a Captain for American Airlines..." [E-Mail Updated 31MAR2009 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 14APR2004 | 22JUN98]

CARR, ADC David syudmc2@bellsouth.net "...I was a FE from 1970 to 1986 with VP-60, VP-66, VP-67, VP-68 and VP-94..." [28SEP2010]

CATON, AMCS Larry Retired justwe3@usit.net "...VP-68 1982-85...VP-62 1985-87. Retired Sep87. Love to hear from past Shipmates. Also stationed VF201 and CNAVRES..." [29AUG98]

CAWI, AT1(NAC) Steven Scawi@aol.com "...Started out with P-3's working NAS Glenview, Illinois AIMD, MMF 0372 (Mobile Maintenace Unit 0372) and VP-60. Departed NAS Glenview, Illinois in 1988 and served with VP-68 as IFT from 1988 until the hangar doors were closed in 1996. Currently attached to VP-66 as IFT. I have worked on and flown in P-3B's, P-3B TACNAVMODs, P-3C UI, II, and II.5 models. Hope to get UIII's before reserve career ends sometime after year 2000..." [22APR98]

Memorial Picture "...CLAPP, ADC Larry...Received this from AVCM Mike Gensch - It is with a very sad and heavy heart that I tell you that ADC Larry Clapp passed away at 5:15 this morning. Larry served with VP-66, VP-68, VP-92 and NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Larry is going to be cremated without a funeral service. Katie and the family want to invite everyone to join in a memorial service there in FL, maybe in a couple of weeks. This will allow the family some time to grieve together and also allow people to make travel plans. Larry has been in Hospice care so his passing was expected but it’s still a shock to think he’s gone..." Contributed by CAHILL, Kevin R. kevin1fe@aol.com [21MAY2015]

CLAPP, ADC Larry Retired katylar123@aol.com "...20 Years w/VP's The Minutemen (VP-92) from 1974-1979. The Liberty Bells (VP-66) 1979-1983. The Blackhawks (VP-68) 1983-1990 then back to the Liberty Bells as an ADC. 1994 to RAIMD NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania and then three years as the Junk Yard Dog running the stations Recycling Department. Best thrill besides being a qualified ground engine operator on all those P-3s, my two years as NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania CPOA president. Retired 1 Nov 1997 w/ lots of great friends..." [13APR98]

Memorial Picture "...COLE, CDR Iven Martin...And an American Airlines Captain, passwed away suddently at his residence, "Journey's End" in Powhatan August 21, 2001. He was a navy veteran assigned as a P-3 "Orion" pilot in the Pacific. He was a member of Navy Reserve Squadron VP-68 and retired with twenty-one years service. He was a Super 80 Captain with twenty-three years of service with American Airlines. Iven was a member of the American Legion, Fleet Reserve Associaton, VP-68 Alumni Association, TailHook Association, Powhatan Moose Lodge #1840, Virginia Student Aid Foundation, Virginia Alumni Association, and a life long member of the St. Luke's Episcopal Church and a member of the Vestry and served as Sr. Warden for one term. Anyone wanting to remember Iven, pleae make contributions to the St. Luke's Episcopal Church Memorial Fund, 245 Huguenot Trail Road, Powhatan, VA..." VP-68 Alumni Association Newsletter [23SEP2001]

COSTA, AMH2 John R. gm.tech1957@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-68 from 1987 to 1991 in Airframes for the best Chief (CPO Cahill). It was the best years of my life. We worked hard and played hard..." [13JUL2009]

COTTHAUS, AOCM John "Jay" Retired JCotthaus@aol.com "...VC-5 Okinawa, '72-75; VP-66, '75-79; VP-68 ( NAS Patuxent River, Maryland), '79-83; RESASWTRACEN NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, '83-86; COMRESPATWINGLANT NAS Norfolk, Virginia, '86-90; VP-92 NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts, '90-92. I retired in October '92 and would enjoy hearing from old squadron mates..." [01FEB98]

CROKE, AT2 Christopher chriscroke@hotmail.com "...Served with VP-1 89-91. With VP-68 91-95. Currently a structural engineer working in Northern Virginia. Would love to hear from VP-1 and VP-68 Shipmates...Would like to hear from Jeff Hayes and J. T. Brown...I have recently completed OCS and am now an Ensign. I will be stationed at Quantico Virginia as a Civil Engineer..." [BIO/E-Mail Updated 06SEP2000 | BIO Updated 21JAN2000 | 08JUL98]


DANIEL, CMDCM Howard D. Tex" Retired howard.daniel1@sbcglobal.net "...I served with VF-202 (1976-1977), VF-302 (1977-1980), VP-94 (1980-1987), VP-68 (1987-1992), COMRESPATWINGPAC Weapons (1992-1995), NAS JRB Fort Worth, TX (1995-1996), COMNAVAIRESFOR (1996-1999), VR-59 (1999-2002), NAS JRB Fort Worth, TX (2002-2006) and retired in 2006. I currently work for the Department of Veteran Affairs in Dallas, TX..." [BIO Updated 23NOV2017 | E-Mail Updated 09FEB2006 | BIO Updated 11FEB2004 | 08DEC98]

DAVIS, CAPTAIN Robert "Bob" Retired r.w.davis828@gmail.com "...I served with VP-49, VP-30, VP-68 (1973-1980) and Commanding Officer VP-93 NAF Detroit, Michigan..." [17DEC2013]

DELOACHE, CDR T. P. Shipmate PixCirca 2005 http://reserves.navy.mil/ "...Commander DeLoache entered Naval service in 1984 as an Electrician's Mate (EM) in the Nuclear Power program. After Basic Electricity and Electronics School and EM "A" School, he completed Nuclear Power School in Orlando, FL, and the Nuclear Power Training Unit in Windsor Locks, CT, qualifying as a Nuclear Plant Electrical Operator. After finishing nuclear power training, he was selected for Aviation Officer Candidate School in NAS Pensacola, Florida. He was commissioned as an Ensign in 1986. After flight training Commander DeLoache reported to VP-10 at NAS Brunswick, Maine. At VP-10 he qualified as Patrol Plane Tactical Coordinator, Mission Commander, primary NFO NATOPS instructor (blue card), and Commander Patrol Wing Five weapons system trainer (WST) instructor. His ground duties included Ground Safety, Educational Services, Ordnance, NFO Training, and NFO NATOPS Officer. Commander DeLoache completed deployments to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and NS Rota, Spain / NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal. These deployments included operational detachments to Andoya, Norway; NAS Sigonella, Sicily and Naples, Italy; and Lann Bihue and Nimes Garon, France, and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. In 1991 Commander DeLoache reported to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VX-1) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. As an Operational Test Director, he directed the development and execution of operational test and evaluation of airborne weapons, sensor and software systems. In 1993 Commander DeLoache reported as a Selected Reservist to Patrol Squadron Six Eight (VP-68) at NAF Washington, D.C.. At VP-68 Commander DeLoache qualified as TACCO, Mission Commander, and primary NFO NATOPS instructor. He completed Active Duty for Training (AT) periods in NS Rota, Spain; NAS Sigonella, Sicily; NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. In 1996 Commander DeLoache reported to Patrol Squadron Six Six (VP-66) at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. He qualified as TACCO, Mission Commander, and primary NATOPS instructor. He completed operational detachments to NS Roosevelt Roads, PR; NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii; and NAF Misawa, Japan..." [18JUL2005]

DeRIVERA, AT1 Thomas Retired derivera1@gmail.com "...NS Rota, Spain (1977-1980 and 1999-2006), VP-62 NAS Jacksonville, Florida (1980-1982), VP-68 at both NAWC-AD NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAF Washington, D.C. (Andrews AFB) (1983-1984), VP-65 NAS Point Mugu, California (1985-1988) and VP-66 at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania (1990-1999). I was an "I-level" Avionics Mmaintainer, but did my share of preflights and vacuuming out the electric bays of P-3's as well! My most interesting P-3 related assignment was as a contractor at Naval Air Development Center Warminster where we moved over 100 research labs to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as a result of a BRAC closure. We found some pretty interesting stuff tucked away in that base!! BTW, now I direct a Hospitality House here in NS Rota, Spain. We work with the Base chapel to provide a home away from home atmosphere for the military community. We love seeing our Navy friends whenever they pass through. Updated: Moved back to NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania area from NS Rota, Spain in 2006 and finally retired from Reserves after 30 years. We moved from Philadelphia to NSA Naples, Italy..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 24MAR2010 | BIO Updated 04SEP2006 | BIO Updated 02NOV2005 | BIO Updated 03JUL2002 | E-Mail Updated 05JUN2002 | 23MAY99]

DRISCOLL, AE1 Bob Retired bobbyd1050@aol.com "...I served with VP-22 (1971-1974), VP-93, VP-68, VP-92 and retired (2000)..." [29JUN2014]

DROUSE, AW2 Edward (SS-1/2) Shipmate PixCirca 1988 jedrouse@netzero.net "...I served in VP-5 from July '87 to Apr '91. Was assigned to CAC-7 as a SS-2 for NAS Sigonella, Sicily deployment. I was the SS-1 on CAC-8 in NAS Bermuda. Had alot of wild times with this squadron! I left active duty and served in VP-93 from JUN '91 - SEP '94. Went from flying Update IIII P-3C's to P-3B's 'Superbees" A/C. Good squadron with a 'work hard/play hard' philosophy. One of the best kept secrets in the Navy. Miss the "Sunday Musters" at the 'Molehole.' Rolled into VP-68 in OCT '94 upon disestablishment of VP-93. About half of the "Detroit Crew" airlifted to NAF Andrews, Maryland until we shut the lights off there in NOV '96. Made my first NAS Keflavik, Iceland det with VP-68. After shutting down VP-68, got orders to VP-92 at NAS Brunswick, Maine in DEC '96. I drilled there until JAN '98 when I went IRR. Re-affiliated with the Naval Air Reserves in OCT 2004, got orders to VP-62 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Currently serving proudly as a "Broad-Arrow" in the ASW capital of the fleet..." [PIX Added 31DEC2004 | BIO Updated 02DEC2004 | 16DEC2001]

DUMESNIL, AWC Bob Retired dumes27@charter.net "...I started by "dub" career with VP-26 (1974), VP-92, VP-64, COMRESPATWINGLANT and finally retired out of VP-68 (1995). Miss all the good times had by all but have a lot of great memories. Any buds out there - drop me a line!..." [E-Mmail Updated 04DEC2005 | 31DEC97]

DUXBURY, CAPTAIN Bill "Dux" dux@sprynet.com "...I was a pilot in VP-10 from March 1981 to March 1984 and deployed to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. I spent most of my time with Crew 10 ("It's Hard To Be Humble When You Are 10's Ten!"). From there I went to VP-30 as an instructor pilot from March 1984 to December 1986. When I left active duty I joined VP-68. I stayed with VP-68 until it was disestablished in December 1996. After 18 years of flying and 4,500 pilot hours in the P-3 it was time to hang up my steel-toed flight boots. I now a Captain for American Airlines living in Charlottesville, Virginia, with my wife Laurie and my two kids..." [16SEP98]

DUXBURY, CAPTAIN Richard B. c/o His Son CAPT Bill Duxbury dux@sprynet.com "...Served with VP-56, VP-44, VP-68, and VP-93, flying P5M, P2V, and P-3..." [15MAY2000]


EBERSOLE, Steve sd8251@gmail.com "...I served with VP-68 (1971-1976), VP-66 (1976-1979), VP-94 (1979-1984), VP-62 (1984-1989), VP-92 (1989-1993), VP-90 (1993-1994), NAVAIRES NAS Jacksonville, Florida (1994- Retirement). Best to all VPers. VP RULES!!..." [E-Mail Updated 19JAN2014 | E-Mail Updated 18FEB2005 | E-Mail Updated 09DEC2004 | 25AUG97]

EHRLICH, ADC(AW) DJ Retired djp3ehr@windstream.net "...Started my career with VT-25, NAS Chase Field, Beeville, Texas, 1970-1973, and then my Navy career really took off, with VP-92, NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts, 1973-1978. Got to work on those P2Vs for six months, beforeVP-92, transitioned to their first P-3As. My boss at the time was ADR1 Al Boissonneault, now retired CW03 Al Boissonneault. Young LT T. Keith, was our Maintenance Officer (now RADM S. T. Keith). Those were some good memories. Then I transferred to VAW-88, NAS Miramar, California, 1978-1982, back to VP-92, 1982-1987, then to VP-MAU, NAS Moffett Field, California, 1987-1991, one of my most memorable tours, and then my final stretch was with VP-68, NAF Washington, D.C., 1991-1994, out of which I retired. While in VP-68, I served as the 100/200 DIV Chief and the MC Chief. If any one wants to contact me, please feel free..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 26SEP2009 | 04OCT2000 | 02FEB98]

ENGLE, John R. Retired jengle8480@aol.com "...I was in VQ-4 (IFT on Crew 12 "The Black Sheep") from 1975 to 1981, VP-68 and VP-4549 from 1981 to 1984 as an FCO in P-3A's, B's and Super B's, VP-30 in 1985, and VP-MAU as an IFT from 1985 to 1989. I retired in 1989. Sure miss those old 130's..."" [E-Mail Updated 22NOV2003 | BIO Updated 10FEB2001 | 16NOV99]


FICKLING, AWCS Richard Retired p3css1@aol.com "...I served in VP-45, VP-62, VP-60, VP-68 and a couple of ASWOC/TSC tours. Retired 12/94, the year before VP-68 Disestablished. Now employeed by Lockheed Martin as the Project Engineer for the acoustic subsystems - maritime programs. (P-3s & LAMPS MK III)...."

FISHER, CAPTAIN Byron Retired BYRFISH@aol.com "...VP-45 (1976-79), VX-1 (1979-80), VP-4549 (SAU) (1980-83), VP-68 (1983-95). Former CO VP-68 (1993-95). Pilot, United Airlines, Washington, DC..." [E-Mail Updated 23MAR2002 | Updated 13SEP98 | 12MAR98]

FITZPATRICK, Shawn shawnftz@aol.com "...I still have the plaque I made to hang at the Oak Harbour Tavern. And I remember with Pride all those who signed it. Yes I reappropriated it, upon my reassignment, to take with me to VP-68 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Still in Aviation at Midwest Express Airlines, Milwaukee..." [25FEB2002]

FLEAGLE, AE2 Bill william.fleagle@ngc.com "...Went through P-3 school at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Served in VX-1 from 1977 to 1981, VP-68 from 1981 to 1983. Would love to hear from any old Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 28AUG2003 | 11JAN99]

FLEMISTER, HM2 Forrest forrest.flemister@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-68 (05/1972) for two weeks with during their deployment to NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal for AcDuTra. I stood flight quarters daily for two weeks and did several flight physicals for the crew of LW4. They flew me to Torrejon Air Base, Madrid, Spain where I spent three of the most beautiful days of my life since the five day R&R I spent in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia..." [08MAY2014]

FOGLER, AVCM Dennis dengayle@cox.net "...I served with VP-91, VP-68 (05/1970-02/1975) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, "B" School at NAS Memphis, Tennessee (01/1975-10/1975),VP-64 (10/1975-01/1976) at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, ResAswTraCen, VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, AIMD NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania (01/1982-10/1983), VAW-78, NAS Norfolk, Virginia (10/1983-11/1986) and retired. I am now living in Virginia Beach, VA and would to like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 31MAY2013 | 21SEP2012]

FOTHERGILL, AW1(NAC) Michael J. mfgill@aol.com "...My first duty station was NAF Washington, D.C. with VP-68 from February 1987 through December 1990. Went to Instructor school in NAS Memphis, Tennessee and reported to RESASWTRACEN at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania in February 1991. Served as a SS3 instructor at RATCEN from February 1991 through April 1995. Was transfered to VP-64 at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania in Apr of 95. Am still serving with VP-64 until August 2000 when I will be transfered to VP-65 in Oxnard, CA. This will probably by my last squadron and retire in February of 2006..." [20MAY2000]

FREYDL, AX2 "FRED" Foster thunderbird9095@hotmail.com "...Calling all "Blackhawks" VP-68 :) I'm still living in south eastern Michigan where I was born and raised. I've made contact with former "Blackhawks" PR2 Tom "Manske" (Wisconsin) and AMH3 George Ritter (New York) thanks to http://classmates.com. I miss those days back in W/C 210 working for/with AT1 Servello, AT1 J.J. O'Donell, AT1 Surrency, AT1 Shore, AX2 Duncan Graham, AT2 Jeffrey "Gomer" Combs, AT2 Ryan, AX2 Ferguson and all the other reservists I used to work with and shoot darts with on drill weekends (when the work was done). I miss our ole Master Chief Dominic Filardo (is he still above ground I hope?), our division AEC Tate {I think}(their names escape me sorry chiefs)*S* (old age creeping in) help me out guys. What's new? Well after being divorced for nearly a decade I "Jumped the Broom" with a Scottish/French woman from Ann Arbor in July 2000. "Michelle" is my "rock" and my life and these days she helps me keep it together. I've worked for some defense contractors in MD. like Dyncorp, and Bendix (now Allied Signal) as well as some private outfits like USA Jet Airlines, GM's Proving Ground and more recently the Bosch corporation as a EMC Technician. I'm between jobs now thanks to my health and 9/11! I'd still love to hear from any of my old cronies from either work or the barracks. I have many pics scanned and archived to share for those who remember living above the old MAA shack at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Also some later pics from Andrews so drop me a line and we can catch up and reminisce the old days guys. Take Care - "Fred" P.S. My only son Matt just turned 16 (he has his drivers license now..I'm getting old!!) this December 1st. He's about 6'5" and 340lbs now and ready to play for the Detroit Lyons (they need him BAD!) LOL Peace guys. God Bless!..." [05DEC2002]

FUCHS, ADC Dave Retired dfuchs@lxpk.veridian.com "...I flew P-3's from November 1973 to July 1990. Logged 1 or 2 hours as an Instructor FE. VP-90, VP-93, VP-64, VP-66, and VP-68. Retired as ADC at VP-68 NAF Washington, D.C.. Presently working in FMS and the F/A-18 Hornet program at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland..." [13OCT99]


Memorial Picture Shipmate Pix "...IN MEMORIAM RONALD JAMES GARMAN, a retired Bell System engineer, pilot for Capital Airlines, Naval Flight Engineer, umpire and videographer passed away on April 23, 2015 from leukemia. Ron was born in Baltimore on November 17, 1937 to Samuel and Margaret (Peggy) Garman. He was raised and attended school in Baltimore. He was an altar boy at Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Lansdowne. In 1954 at the age of 17 he joined the Navy Reserves and became a Naval Aerial photographer. He later became a Flight Engineer on the Navy's Lockheed Electra anti-submarine aircraft and a Chief Petty Officer, flying out of NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. He was called into active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1964 the P2V Neptune he was flying in caught fire and crashed into the Pacific Ocean during a training mission. Everyone survived, but Ron's injuries were so severe that he was told he didn't qualify, physically, to fly as a combat aircrew member any longer. Ron went all out to get himself qualified to return as an air crewman once more and was the only crew member from the accident to continue flying. Ron traveled the world and experienced many adventures with Anti-submarine Patrol Squadron VP-68 during his 40 years in the Navy. He made many life-long friends and attended numerous naval reunions after retirement. Ron started his other career in 1957 as a Western Electric equipment installer for The Bell System's central offices, working his way up to a Senior Engineer before retiring from Verizon in 1998. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Maryland in 1974. Ron continued his education, taking classes and learning on his own, everything he could about video production. He owned two businesses, Columbia Studio Productions and Blackhawk Studios. He wrote, directed and produced a fictional story for Comcast television. Magic or Reality told the story of how anyone can be one step from homelessness. Military and civilian videos were produced by his companies. After retiring from the Navy and Verizon, Ron went on to become a pilot for Capital Airlines, flying cargo shipments to South and Central America. For all of his life, Ron played or umpired baseball and softball. Most recently, up until October of 2014, he umpired at Ripken Stadium in Harford County and for recreational centers throughout Howard County. Community sports and working with young people were huge joys for Ron. Ron had many interests and pursued all of them with gusto. He got great reviews for his acting in a play at the Arena Theatre in Washington DC in the early 60s. He studied and performed magic for orphanages and nursing homes in Europe while traveling with the Navy. He loved motorcycles and owned a 1947 knucklehead Harley Davidson in the 1950s. He rode a 2005 full dresser Harley Davidson in the 2000s. He loved 50s and 60s rock music, jazz and dancing. He loved to write fiction and had a few novels in the works. In his later years he was teaching himself to play drums. Ron was an avid collector of 1950s and motorcycle memorabilia, marbles, old coins and items from his travels. A colorful and fun loving man, he is missed by all that knew and loved him. Ron left his body to the Maryland State Anatomy Board. A memorial service and party will be held on November 22 at the V.F.W. Memorial Post 8097, 7209 Montevideo Rd, Jessup. Those wishing to make a donation in his memory can do so to the Wounded Warrior Project. Ron is survived by his wife, Vicki Hay of Fallston, daughters Kimberly Garman and Lisa Garman Pittman, son-in-law Timothy Pittman, all of Baltimore, sister Judy Unger, of Lincolnton, NC, sister Nancy Razzano and brother-in-law Joe Razzano of Reading, PA and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, second wife Patricia Garman, brother Jeffrey Garman and brother Jack Garman. Published in Baltimore Sun on Oct. 29, 2015 https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/BaltimoreSun/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=176266221..." Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John Retired bentonj456@gmail.com [11FEBG2019]

GARMAN, Ron vp68hawk@bellatlantic.net "...F/E CAC 4, VP-68 Crew member from 1969 till 1/1/94. Still have vivid memories and nightly dreams of skulking the depths of the oceans for those nasty iron tubes. All night Barrier Patrols in all kinds of delightful weather...Rota, Lajes, Kindly, Barbers, Kinloss, Sig, Kef, etc..." [00XX97]

Memorial Picture "...GATH, Robert James "Bob"...(Capital Newspaper) Robert James "Bob" Gath, 84, of Riva and previously of Washington, D.C., died Dec. 21 at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home in St. Mary's County after a brief illness. He had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Born March 26, 1920, in Washington, Mr. Gath graduated from Eastern High School in 1939 and attended American University. During World War II, from 1944 to 1946, he served on active duty in the Pacific Theater of Operations, including at Guam and Iwo Jima, with the 3rd Marines Explosive Ordnance Bomb Disposal Team. He also served in the Korean War. In 1980 he retired from the Naval Reserve as a master chief, having served as an aviation ordnanceman. He retired in 1977 as a civilian employee from the Army's Harry Diamond Laboratory. Mr. Gath was active in civic and community associations, and most recently was recognized for his longtime volunteer work as dockmaster for Sylvan Shores. He was a member of American Legion Post 7, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association and the Retired Enlisted Association. He enjoyed boating, aviation and NASCAR. Surviving are three daughters, Donna Crowley of Bluemont, Va., Deborah Lindeberry of Galax, Va., and Dana McGee of Falls Church, Va.; and three grandchildren. Visitation is from 10:30 a.m. to noon tomorrow at Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, followed by services. Burial will be in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Suitland. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Legion Post 7, 1905 Crownsville Road, Annapolis, MD 21401; St. Mary's Hospice, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650; or Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, 29449 Charlotte Hall Road, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622..." Contributed by Dan Hayes dhayes@exactlynet.com [30DEC2004]

GILKEY, Mike MikeGjax@aol.com or MGJAX@juno.com "...Flight Engineer with VP-22 1965/1970. Became a Tar in 1971 and operated with VP-91, VP-65, VP-60, VP-68, VP-62. Retired in 1988. Currently a B-747 Flight Engineer with Southern Air Transport..." [18DEC97]

GILL, Christopher E. Retired chrisegill@mail.com "...I was stationed in VP-44 (1973 to 1976) and worked about a year in the TRON shop. I moved onto AIMD for the next 2 years. I do believe it was the best squadron I was ever served with. From there I went to VX-1 (1977 to 1980), left active duty for a year while serving with VP-68 as a TAR. Rejoined the Navy and was assigned to VP-6 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii (1981 to 1984), NATTC NAS Millington, Tennessee as an instructor (1984 to 1987), VQ-3 (1988 to 1990), VQ-4 (1990 to 1993) and then retired. I would like to say hi to all..." [E-Mail Updated 17APR2007 | 19FEB99]

GOZRULAK, Lawrence F. Lgozrula@aol.com or gozrula@msn.com "...Served in VQ-3 NAS Agana, Guam from Oct75-Mar77. VP-91 from Apr77-Jul80. VP-68 from Jul80-Apr85. NARCEN NAS Moffett Field, California from Apr85-Jul87. VP-MAU NAS Moffett Field, California from Jul87-Oct91. VP-91 from Oct91-Feb94. HM-19/15 NAS Alameda, California Feb94-Feb95. VR-55 NAS Moffett Field, California from Feb95-Nov95. Retired AECS P-3 Flight Engineer..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 01FEB2002 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 09JAN2000 | 05MAR98]

GREEN, Pete (Pedro Verde) pgreen.paxr@veda.com "...Recently passed 5000 pilot hours and 19 continuous years in the mighty Orion, and survived over 12 years of P-3 project officers "keeping me young." JO tour with the best...VP-8 Tigers 1979-1983. VX-1 (SMILS Project Officer) 1983-1985. Veda, Inc. as a contractor Project Pilot / Systems Engineer at ASW / Force Test Directorates / Naval Force Aircraft Test Squadron 1985-present. VP-68 Blackhawks famous CAC-6 1985-1993. Reserve AEDO 1993-present. Recent P-3 project work/test flying involvement at Orion Test includes: Extended Echo Ranging (EER), Counter Drug Upgrade (CDU), ASUW Improvement Program (AIP), Ring-Laser Inertial Navigation Unit (RINU), Flight Performance Advisory System (FPAS), and Electronic Flight Display System (EFDS) programs. Still alot of new life being pumped into the old horse! Great website... I'll pass the word around the P-3 T&E community! V/R, Pedro..." [18APR98]

GREENE, LCDR Tom Retired stgreene@bellatlantic.net "...I discovered your site while searching for the USNA Flying Club. Your site looks great thanks. I was a proud member of the Fighting Marlins or Laging Handa VP-40, from November 1979 to November 1982. I then was transferred to the Naval Air Test Center to the ASW Test Directorate (now called Force Warfare) as a fleet input pilot fying all the different models of the P-3, A's, B's and C's from Update 1 to 3. I was at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from November 1982 to November 1985. I then left active duty for the airlines, where I now work for Continental Airlines. I affliated with VP-68 at NAF Washington, D.C. flying P-3C's. I retired in 1994. I look forward to hearing from old shipmates both enlisted and officers..." [06APR2000]

GRZYBOWSKI, CW02 Scott scott_grzybowski@usiva.com "...I served with VP-68 during 1991-1993 as a Flight Engineer with Crew 8. It is not as good as a P-3, but it works..." [Updated BIO 01APR99 | 11MAR98]


HALE, Jerry baldy1123@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-65 (TAR) and VP-68 (Plankholder). I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [19MAY2012]

HANSON, Ray RHanson10@compuserve.com "...It's hard to believe that I have been flying as an IFT on P-3's for 21 years now. First with VP-26 from 1976 to 1979. Then with VP-68 from 1981 to 1996 and now with VP-92. I have had the pleasure of being qualified on the P-3A, P-3B, P-3B Mod, P-3C, P-3CUI, P-3-CUII, and now the P-3-CUII.5. Soon I will try the P-3-CUIII..." [30DEC97]

HAYDEN, AWC(AW/NAC) Brett Retired bldqhayden@comcast.net "...I served with VP-45 (1984-1987) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-68 (1987-1997) at NAF Andrews, Maryland and VP-92 (1997-2004) at NAS Brunswick, Maine..." [28JAN2017]

HAYES, AE1 James B. (Gabby) USNR Retired jim-hayes@earthlink.net "...I was assigned to VP-44 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland the week after they recieved their first P-3 (1967). I also served in VP-68 and VP-92 over the next 22 years. Somewhere I have a crew picture that is not on this site, I will send it when I can find it. I would like to hear from some of the old gang..." [E-Mail Updated 11JUL2006 | 16MAR2005]

HEADLEY, AXCS Dan Retired dheadley@hcstechnologies.com "...I served with VP-30 from 1970 to 1972 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VP-66 from 1976 to 1979 as an IFT, VP-62 from 1980 to 1985, VP-68 from 1985 to 1990, and the MMF at NAF Washington, D.C. from 1990 to 1992. Retired in 1992 to Reedsville, WV near Morgantown..." [15MAY2003]

HEFFRON, AFCM(AW) Michael G. phmann@farmlandpheasant.com "...Flight Engineer P-3 A/B. Served with VP-91 from 72'-76, Plankholder with VP-93 from 76'-80', VP-68 from 80'-82', VP-93 from 82'-86', HM-18 from 86'-89', VR-62 thru 92, and retired in Yale, MI. Manage game perserve in Brown City. Drop a line. Lets go hunting..." [E-Mail Updated 15JUL99 | 09MAY98]

Memorial Picture "...HEWITT, AW1(NAC) Kevin...AW1(NAC) Kevin Hewitt USNR(RET) passed away on June 16, 2004 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, IA. Kevin served in VP-68 as a TAR, VP-60 and NARCEN Minneapolis as a SELRES...Dan Hogan, AT1(NAC) dch9244@att.net..." [18JUN2004]

UPDATE "...My friend, AW1(NAC) KEVIN K. HEWITT, USNR (RET), Died June 16, 2004. Kevin was a good man and a great friend. I am proud to have called you both. FAIR WINDS BROTHER YOU ARE IN GOOD COMPANY I look forward to meeting you on the other side of midnight. AW1(NAC) Truitt, David E. USNR (RET) aw11t@msn.com..." [18JUN2004]

HILE, Doug hile@olg.com "...I'm an old VP-68 weekend warrior, and have some 8mm footage of a NS Rota, Spain Cruise, late 69s early 70s, you may be interested in. This was the last cruise of the P2s before transitioning to P-3s, and I look at it, every so often. I should transfer to video, and was wondering if anyone else had any "home movies" they would like to share, and maybe compile..." [23OCT2000]

HOOVER, Kenny khoover@ipa.net "...It was great to see some old and familiar names. I served in the "tar" Navy from 1974 to 1984. I served from 1974 to 1978 with VF-201, 1978 to 1979 with VA-305, 1979 to 1983 with VP-68, and 1983 to 1984 VF-201. If any of you would like to get in touch feel free!..." [26NOV2000]

HOPGOOD, Phil hopgood@doim6.monmouth.army.mil "...Flew P-3C Update I with VP-9 Golden Eagles in Active Duty with deployments to NAS Adak, Alaska (1985), and split NAF Misawa, Japan and NAS Cubi Point, Philippines (1996) on CAC-4. Joined VP-MAU NAS Moffett Field, California Reserve squadron in 1987 where we transitioned to P-3 Update III. Transfered to VP-68 ( NAF Washington, D.C.) in 1989. This time we transitioned from P-3 B to P-3C Update II. Had a heck of a time with the CAC-4 Sky Pigs..." [11MAR98]

HUMPHREYS, CSC Tim umphrey@crosslink.net "...I served with HSL-30 NAS Norfolk, Virginia from 1977 to 1978, VX-1 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1978 to 1980, and VP-4549 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 1980-83. Six years of broken time, came back in Navy Reserves to VP-68 NAF Washington, D.C. from 1989 until the squadron was disestablished in 1996. Transfered to VR-48 in 1996 where I am currently stationed as the CSC..." [14MAR2004]


JENKINS, Ralph jenkinsralph@bellsouth.net "...Was in VP-68 when we were still flying P2 at NAF Andrews, Maryland then we made the move down to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to P-3A. Would like to hear from any crew members who can remember that far back. LCDR "Hap" Peterson was my pilot..." [14FEB2009]

JENSEN, Alex dude100@email.msn.com "...I was in VP-19 Big Red from 1988-90, did 2 deployments to NAS Misawa, Japan, went to VP-68 Black Hawks 1991-93 became an AO aircrew instructor in P-3C's, went to VP-60 Cobras while attending UND from 1993-94 and decom. Later went on to reserve carrier unit CV-63 USS Kitty Hawk 1994-97, then went on to Navy Intel. JICPAC RIA-10 in Minneapolis, MN. Any old Shipmates don't hesistate to email me. CAC-7 kicks butt! Oh, yeah if you don't remember me I was that young blond punk holding the sonobouy in that book "Sub Busters: Countering the Submarine Threat (Osprey Aerospace Series)". AO1 over and out..." [26APR99]

JOHNSON, AT1 Lew Retired lew.johnson@gsfc.nasa.gov "...VP-68 CAC 4 (Skypigs)(Radio/FCO/IFC)(Same-O/Same-O)- P-3A/B/B-Mod -1970-1989...VP-661/68A1 CAC 2/1/4 (Radio)- P-2V-5F/7/SP2G/SP2H -1959-1970...Zero-Dark-Thirty Preflights with (AP) & Senior Chief (Ironhead)[F/E]...All night patrols...Lousy Comms...High QRM/QRN...Broke-Dick gear...I wouldn't trade it for a million bucks...My lifelong Buds are CAC 4. I miss it. It was the most important thing in my life. I MISS LIKE HELL!!!..." [25MAR98]

JONES, ADC(AW) Charles "CJ" baycitytexas@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-1 (03/1986-03/1989) with deployments to NAF Misawa, Japan and NAS Adak, Alaska and VP-68 (06/1992-07/1995)..." [BIO Updated 21AUG2016 | 16JAN2016]

JONES, AWCS(AW) J. J. Jjlynjones@aol.com "...Hello Shipmates. I served with VP-50 from 78-80, Reserve ASW Training Center 81-84, VP-65 from 84-88, VP-68 from 88-93, and currently back at Reserve ASW Training Center in NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Retiring January 99'. Looking forward to keeping in touch with so many VPers on the web and at the Reunions..." [09AUG98]

JUNIUS, AMEC (AW/NAC) JR AMECFE@aol.com "...STARTED IN VP-94 NAS New Orleans, Louisiana JULY 85-APR 86. TRANSFERRED TO VP-64 APR 86 TO OCT 88..TRNSFERED TO VP-66 OCT 88-NOV 94 THEN TO VP-68 NOV94-NOV96 AND CURRENTLY IN VP-66 DEC 96-PRESENT..." [04NOV98]


KELLEY, AME1 John jopaco@tm.net "...I was in VP-93 from 1980-1985 as a SELRES, then 1985-1989 as a TAR. I was the Career Counselor for most of those years except when Bob Donnelon and I ran the line shack. Mike Kurtz and I put together the greatest Christmas parties the squadron ever seen! I then went to VP-68 from 1989-1993. From there I went to VP-92 from 1993 to current. I transferred VP-92 from NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts to NAS Brunswick, Maine. I look forward to hearing from all of you. One more tour and it's retirement time...I left VP-92 1 Aug 99 and went to NARA Selfridge, Michigan after completing Instructor school in Great Lakes..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 22SEP99 | 30JAN99]

KIRSCH, Mike MKirschGov@aol.com "...I was recalled to active duty in the TAR program and was a plank-owner in VP-68 in November 1970 when they still flew SP2H's at NAF Washington, D.C.. Made the move to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland when the squadron transitioned to P-3A's in June 1971. Have many great memories of squadron trips to Lajes, NS Rota, Spain & NAS Bermuda. Had the best CPO in the world to work for, YNC Bill McDonald. He deeply influenced my decision to make the Navy a career. Also served in VAW-207 and COMRESPATWINGLANT at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. NAVRESPERSCEN NAS New Orleans, Louisiana, NAVMILPERSCOM and OPNAV in Washington. Transitioned to the surface Navy and spent nearly 3 years aboard USS Valdez (FF-1096) Newport, RI. Last tour of duty was at LANTREPCOMNAVSURFRESFOR in NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Retired in September 1990. Currently employed as regional construction/maintenance manager for an international company that owns funeral homes and cemeteries throughout the United States, Canada and United Kingdom. Would love to hear from any VP Shipmates..." [20NOV98]

KESSLER, Bruce bddkessler@wcnet.org "...I from 1977 to 1981 with VX-1. I also served with VP-68 from 1981 to 1986. I worked at the Test Range till 1987..." [21MAR99]

KOGEL, Sammy kogelsd@navair.navy.mil "...To all the guys in VP-68. Nice to read that so many of you guys are still around. Figured I'd better throw my name in since Kronz did, just in case he needs some back-up. FE's rule. Invite my Shipmates to drop me a line..." [25JAN99]

Memorial Picture "...KRAFT, AWC Victor Charles Jr. "Vic"...AWC Vic Kraft passed away March 4th, 2023. Victor Charles Kraft, Jr., age 89, passed away, March 4, 2023, at his residence. Victor was born November 30, 1933, in Baltimore, MD., a son of the late Victor Charles Kraft, Sr. and Alma Lenora Dixon Kraft. In addition to his parents, Victor was pre-deceased by a brother, John Vernon Kraft. Victor was US Navy Veteran, who loved flying and fishing. Surviving is his wife, Diane Lynn Kraft of Myrtle Beach. SC., children: Steven John Kraft (Nadine) of Bedford, VA., David Scott Kraft of Catonsville, MD., and Robert Barry Kraft, Sr. (Lisa) of Lovettsville, VA., and Cheryl Ann Stinson of Myrtle Beach, SC., grandchildren: Summer Kraft and Robert Barry Kraft, Jr. both of Wilmington, NC., and Ashley S. Morris of Evington, VA., and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral Services will be private. Burroughs Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Murrells Inlet (843.651.1440) is assisting the family. WebSite: Burroughs Funeral Home & Cremation Services Obituary..." Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [31MAR2024]

KRAFT AWC Vic sezd35a@prodigy.com "...Joined VP-662 in March 64 later VP68a2 then Nov 1970 and VP-68 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland Crew 8. I am a plankholder in VP-68. Lots of great memories with the best squadron in the VP Navy. High year ten in 1990. Still miss it very much!..." [E-Mail Updated 02JUL98]

KRONZ, AMHC Chris chrisnjax@yahoo.com "...I am a Blue Card Flight Engineer presently serving with VP-62 in Sunny NAS Jacksonville, Florida for the second and last time - "Go BroadArrows." I have additional P-3B/B mod/and C tours with VP-60 NAS Glenview, Illinois (1981 to 1984), VP-62 (1984 to 1990 and VP-68 (1990 to 1995). I would greatly appreciate hearing from old Shipmates for this is my last tour with the mighty Orion. I am and forever shall be an avid member of the most elite brotherhood of all, that of the Fraternal Order of P-3 Flight Engineers. The most under rated, most professional group of individuals aboard this platform. I'll take two Flight Engineers's against a dozen lazy IFT's anyday of the week at any time of the day..." [E-Mail Updated 26AUG2006 | 28DEC97]


Memorial Picture "...LAKE, Lawrence Rex...Rex Lake passed away Feb. 18th, 2024. L. Rex Lake, who never liked to be called Lawrence, his first name, passed away February 18, 2024. Rex was just short of his 129th birthday. There will be a big celebration in heaven today as Rex joins his many family members there. Rex was born on Piney Run, Marion County, near Fairmont on Easter Sunday, April 21, 1935. He was born at home; the midwife was a neighbor of the Lakes. He was the first of two sons born to the late Lester L. Lake and Marie Hinzman Lake. His mother always liked to talk about what a beautiful Easter Sunday it was, sunny with Easter lilies blooming and Spring in full swing. Rex graduated from East Fairmont High School in 1953. He joined the Navy with his brother Gary in September 1954. He spent the next four years on active duty with the Navy, stationed in Maryland, Oklahoma, Florida and Guantanamo Bay Naval Station, Cuba. He left the Navy active duty in August 1958 to start college at Fairmont State University, graduating in May 1964 with a BS degree in business and accounting. He started his career at Monongahela Power company on July 1, 1964. He retired in April 1999 as Supervisor, Fuel Accounting with 35 years of service. While working at Mon Power, Rex also spent 35 years with the Naval Air Reserve, flying as a crewmember on the S2F, P2V, and finally the P-3 Orion aircraft. While flying for the Navy, he visited Bermuda, Panama, Turks & Caicos Islands, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Chile, Brazil, Ascension Island, Portugal, Spain, Sicily, Island of Malta, Italy, Norway, England, Scotland, Iceland, Greenland, Rock of Gibraltar, Cuba, Canary Islands, and Nova Scotia. His last 23 years of Navy duty were as a flight engineer of the Navy P-3 Orion antisubmarine aircraft. He retired from the navy in December 1993 with 39 years of service. In addition to his parents, Rex was predeceased by his first wife, Janice Lousie Snyder Lake, his three sons: Lester Kent (Kenny) Lake, Chris Alan Lake, and Kevin Rex Lake and his brother, Gary R. Lake as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and nephews. Rex is survived by his wife, Elsie Doshen Lake and her son, Mike Napalo (Angie) of Mannington; Daughter, Terry Lynee Lake Thomas (Gary); Daughter in law, Mary Ellen Donaldson Lake; Sister in law, Wilma Lake; Grandchildren: Travis Swann (Ashley), Randa Swann Cook (Blaine), Ally Cubitt DiSipio (Mark), Joseph Lake, Courtney Lake Tonkovich, Christina Moore, Brittany Moore Myers (Drew), Michelle Moore and Melissa Moore Mike (Matt), Meredith Napalo and Avia Napalo and great grandchildren; Bella Talerico, Haleigh Swann, Isaac Cook, Logan Lake, Brenner Moore, Isaiah Moore, Brylee Myers, Mason Myers, Maddox Mike, Madilynn Mike, Logan DiSipio, Natalie DiSipio, Crew Moore, Kevleigh Cook. Rex was a member of Mt. Sharon Free Methodist Church (Rex was not very active), Civil Air Patrol, Experimental Aircraft Association, Mannington Moose Lodge, and local Veterans of Foreign Wars. He also delivered meals for Meals on Wheels where he enjoyed helping others. He enjoyed photography, genealogy, physical fitness activity, traveling, motorcycling, and flying his own aircraft. Family and friends may call from 3:00pm to 8:00pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, with a vigil at 7:00pm led by Father Binu Emmanuel at Carpenter and Ford Funeral Home, 209 Merchant Street, Fairmont. The funeral service will be at Carpenter and Ford Funeral Home at 11:00 am Thursday, February 22, 2024, with Pastor Carl Radcliff officiating. Committal services will follow at West Virginia National Cemetery, Pruntytown with full military honors. WebSite: Times West Virginia Obituary..." Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [31MAR2024]

LAKE, Rex Retired rexlake@frontier.com "...I served with VP-68 (1970-1993) as a FE. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 06MAR2013 | E-Mail Updated 30OCT2003 | 19JUN98 | 00XX97]

LAMBERSON, AT2 Mark R. sgllc2@verizon.net "...I served aboard NAS Agana, Guam (1976-1980) AIMD Avionics and VP-68 (1980-1982) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Left the reserves for a job in Bermuda for eleven years thanks to the training I received in the Navy..." [25AUG2016]

LANGE, AFCM(AW) Danny Retired danny@lnf.com "...I served with VP-68 at NAF Andrews, Maryland. I am currently working for Long and Foster (http://www.homes4ubydanny.com/) selling Realestate. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [22FEB2010]

LANGLEY, F. Michael (Mike) TLRGROUP@aol.com "...VP-23 1977-1980, VPU-1 1982-1984, and VP-68 1984-1991. Lovin life in South Florida. Playin lots of golf. PPC/MC of Crew 1 VP-23 CAPT USNR now. Retiring this year. Would love to hear from squadron mates anytime..." [30JUL99]

LaVALLE, MCPO Jacque Retired lavallejd@verizon.net "...I served with VP-68 (TAR 1977 to 1981 and SELRES 1982-1996) and past President of the VP-68 Alumni Associaton. I joined the squadron as a 3rd class Petty Officer and departed as a Master Chief. I decided that the P-3 was the way to stay and finished up my 30 year career with VP-92 as the SELRES Command Master Chief. I received my Master's Degree in December 2000 and retired December 2003. I am currently serve as Senior Electrical Power Systems Design Engineer at NAVAIR for the acquisition of the new E-2D Hawkeye and P-8A Posiedon. In my spare time I am the Chairman of the St. Mary's County Airport Committee (2W6) and a Certified Flight Instructor. I enjoy the wonderful world of general aviation and looking forward to many safe and adventuresome hours aloft. Fly hard but always fly safe!..." [BIO Updated 20SEP2014 | E-Mail Updated 10FEB2008 | 09NOV2000]

LEACH, Donald "Myrl" Retired myrl13@juno.com "...VP Alumni- ASW, which is now VX-20 (1981 to 1984), VP-40 (1984 to 1987), VP-68 (1987 to 1993), and VP-66 (1993 to 1996). Member of Union, Local 8251 Chapter! Retired in November 1996 and live in Southern Maryland now. Worked on P-3s with DynCORP for nearly 3 years at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland after getting out, and currently work for Eagle Systems at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland doing logistics work for the NAVAIR community. Miss the flying, dets, and comraderie. Feel free to get in touch with me..." [E-Mail Updated 15JAN2004 | 18DEC98]

LEMMONS, Rear Admiral Jeffrey A. http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/people/flags/biographies/lemmonsja.html "...Rear Admiral Jeffrey A. Lemmons, Vice Commander, Naval Air Forces, Commander, Naval Air Force Reserve. Rear Admiral Lemmons is a native of Brownwood, Texas. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1979 and was designated a Naval Aviator in November of 1980. In 1981 he reported to VP-23 in NAS Brunswick, Maine, deploying to NAS Keflavik, Iceland, NS Rota, Spain, the NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NAS Bermuda, and NAS Sigonella, Sicily. He flew in maritime support for Operation Urgent Fury/Grenada Battle Group, Libyan, Syrian, and Nicaraguan surveillance operations. In September 1984, Rear Adm. Lemmons reported to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Washington D.C. as a Naval Intern where he participated in global war planning, multiple theater wargaming, and joint service policy development. Rear Adm. Lemmons received a Reserve commission in November 1985, and reported to VP-68 at NAF Washington, D.C.. He subsequently became the Commanding Officer of VP-68 in February 1996. After his squadron command tour, he has been assigned as: After his squadron command tour, he has been assigned as: Executive Assistant to the Commanding Officer, NR Reserve Patrol Wing Atlantic 0186; Commanding Officer, NR CVN-71 0193 supporting USS Theodore Roosevelt; Commanding Officer NR NAS Keflavik, Iceland 0293; Commanding Officer, NR Navy Command Center 106, supporting OPNAV N3/N5. During this period he also served in the following extended active duty assignments: Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) staff N88R, supporting the Director, Naval Air Warfare for programming and budget development; Commander U. S. Second Fleet ASST C2W Officer during NATO Exercise Strong Resolve 1998; USS Theodore Roosevelt Battle Group liaison officer to the Combined Air Operations Center, 5th Allied Tactical Air Force, Vicenza Italy during Operation Allied Force, the campaign to liberate Kosovo; OPNAV Naval Operations Group "Deep Blue" liaison officer to the Commander, U. S. Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Deputy for Mission Effectiveness, Navy Reserve Readiness Command Region Southeast Director for Fleet Readiness, OPNAV N43. He has proudly served with Shipmates who have earned four Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Coast Guard Unit Commendation and two Battle "E" Awards for excellence. He is authorized to wear the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (3), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kosovo Theater Medal, and the NATO Medal for Yugoslavia. He has completed the Naval War College and National Defense University Reserve Component studies curriculum. Rear Adm. Lemmons has been a commercial airline pilot with American Airlines since 1987..." [21MAR2005]

LISTER, AW1 Pete Retired pdlister@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-67 (1971-1976) (SP-2H) at NAS Memphis, Tennessee, VP-60 (1976-1978) (P-3A) at NAS Glenview, Illinois, ResASWTacResASWTac (1979-1981) at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, VP-68 (1981) (P-3B) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland / NAF Washington, D.C. and VP-4549 (1981-1986). After retirement, I joined Lockheed Flying Operations, and went to Air Force Base #6, Montijo, Portugal, with the P-3P program, as an SS-3 aircrew instructor to PoAF aircrews. While at Lockheed, I served on the First Flight crew for a number of P-3C’s coming off the assembly line in Palmdale, CA. After the Portuguese contract ended, I returned to Lockheed in Burbank, where I served as a Systems Safety engineer on the ill-fated P-7 program..." [13MAR2017]

LOWE, SS1/2/3 John W. Retired johnlowe2000@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-49 (1979 to 1982), VP-0516 (1983 to 1984), VP-62 (1984 to 1987), VP-68 (1987 to 1991), RESASWTRACEN (1991 to 1995) and VP-66 (1995 to 1998). Those they remember me know that I was one of the best practical jokers ever!..." [08NOV2009]

LUCK, Larry leluck@concentric.net "...Hello to all of my former Fighting Marlin and Blackhawk squadronmates. VP-40, NAS Moffett Field, California: 12/79-5/83 (P-3C Baseline NavComm/Tacco); VP-68 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 7/83-4/85 (P-3A Nav); VP-68/VP-1649/VP-68 NAF Washington, D.C. (P-3B Mod Nav/Tacco; P-3C UI Tacco) 5/85-12/94; RPWL 0186 NAR NAS Norfolk, Virginia: 1/96 - present..." [21MAR98]


McCLEARY, Joseph F. Jr. (Joe Mac) Retired j.mccleary@attbi.com "...I served with VP-68 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 1980 - 1985, VP-65 NAS Point Mugu, California 1985 - 1989, VP-62 NAS Jacksonville, Florida 1989 - 1993, VP-94 NAS New Orleans, Louisiana 1993-1996, and VP-62. Retired in July 1996. Current position is as the night shift Maintenance supervisor with VP-U.S. CUSTOMS P-3 surveillance branch east NAS Jacksonville, Florida. I look forward to hearing from old friends..." [17SEP2002]

McCOLLISTER, CDR John T. Shipmate Pix John@TheMcCollister.com "...I joined the ranks of VP Sailors in 1969 when I reported aboard VP-49 as the 3P for CAC 6. With VP-49, I participated in one of the first operational deployments of the "new" P-3C to NAS Keflavik, Iceland. After leaving VP-49, I accepted orders to VP-30 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, as an instructor pilot in the P-3. I left active duty in 1973, and finished my career serving with VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, and VP-64, at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. A "legend in my own mind," I'm best known for my "VP Album", a collection of original Navy songs that ended up pressed onto vinyl in 1982. This album was stuffed into a SSQ-53 sonobuoy container and dropped aboard a Russian Victor-class submarine in 1982. It spread quickly throughout the Soviet Union, ultimately leading to the collapse of the "Evil Empire" in 1989. Best regards to all my Shipmates!..." [E-Mail Updated 06AUG2001 | E-Mail Updated 16DEC99 | BIO Updated 21OCT98 | 05OCT98]

McKEE, AEC Homer R. Retired mckee_homer@bellsouth.net "...My first tour of duty VAH-3 Sanford Fl. after AE B school. I started VP duty with VP-49 NAS Bermuda from 1962-1964 (P-3 F/E school in 1963), VP-30 F/E Inst. from 1965-1967, TAR VP-68 from 1971-1974 NAS Glenview, Illinois, VP-90 from 1974-1977, VP-62 from 1977-1980, VP-60 from 1980-1981, and retired August 1981. I am still employed at NADEP NAS Jacksonville, Florida as a P-3 ASI..." [E-Mail Updated 02MAR2004 | E-Mail Updated 10AUG2002 | E-Mail Updated 25MAY2001 | 07SEP98]

McCLAIN, AE1 Robert J. robt.mcclain@att.net "...I served with VP-68 (1976-1977) and VP-30 FE training. I had just been discharged from the Marine Corps after 9.5 years of active service as a S/SGT with five years in grade. I had much flight crewmember experience in the Marines as a Crew Chief on both rotary and fixed wing transports, like CH-53A/B's and C-117D's Along the way, I used the G.I. Bill to get my civilian ratings, and pursued an airline pilot career which became possible largely because of my P-3 FE experience and background as a civilian pilot. I retired from Continental Airlines in November of 2008 and live in Manassas, VA. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [05MAY2013]

MEEKS, AMCS Lewis A. Retired lewmeeks@earthlink.net "...I served with VP-26 from December 1965 to June 1968. I was with the squadron when we lost the two aircraft in Southeast Asia 1968. I knew all the crewmembers very well and a lot of them were my very close friends. Two of the guys had worked for me prior (AMH2 Homer Mckay and AME2 Don Burnside). In reference to his daughters inquiry, I also knew Chief Don Kulacs, he was a super guy. I transfered to NATTC NAS Memphis, Tennessee for instructor duty in June 1968. After a tour there I went to VF-14 "TOP HATTERS" aboard the USS John F. Kennedy. From there i did my last tour at the Naval Safety Center NAS Norfolk, Virginia and retired April 1981. I attend 2 years of Airframe and powerplants school and obtained my A&P license in 1983. I then worked for Zantop Airlines on the Lockheed Electra in Macon Ga. From there I took an Airframe Tech Rep. job with CPW-10 at NAS Moffett Field, California, which took me to a Tech Rep. position with VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. From 1986 to 1989 i worked for a few different contractors in that area. In 1989 I went Civil Service and retired in Nov 2000 fron NAVAIRSYSCOM as a GS-13 Project Team leader for The Analysis Center..." [18AUG2004 | 22DEC2003]

MICHEL, Curtis cmichel@erols.com "...Served with VP-68 from July 85 to December 91 as an AT1/ATC..."

MILDREN, Dwight 'Ike' ikem@erols.com "...VP-31 in NAS North Island, San Diego, California for P2V (5) aircrew training, VP-6 Blue Sharks 1964-1967. When I joined the squadron in Hawaii, it was the day after an emergency deployment in support of early Vietnam operations. I met up with the squadron in Naha, Okinawa. After B School, was transferred back to VP-6 1968-1968 and served one deployment in Vietnam (Utapo), Thailand. My brother, Bob Mildren, received 'brother duty' orders to VP-6 the same day that I received orders to NATC NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, Weapon System Division. Plankholder in the Tactical Support Project, Dec 69. Served as ASWOC/TSC analyst, installer, trainer for TSC NAS Keflavik, Iceland, TSC NAS Moffett Field, California, TSC Jacksonville, TSC NAS Adak, Alaska. Ended Navy tour during NAS Adak, Alaska and worked as a contractor for installations of TSC NAS Sigonella, Sicily, TSC NS Rota, Spain, TSC NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, TSC NAS Bermuda, TSC NAS Agana, Guam, TSC NAS Misawa, Japan, TSC NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and TSC NAS Cubi Point, Philippines. TSC renamed to TSC and subsequently reversed name to TSC due to ASW being out of vogue. I served in VP-68 in USNR and various Reserve ASWOC/TSC and ASWOC/TSC (ASWOC 468) units. Currently working at EMA, Inc. on ASWOC/TSC and other Tactical Mobile GCCS-M projects..." [01APR2000]

MINNICH, LT Bill Retired bminnich@matc.tec.oh.us "...I served in VP-30, VP-68, VP-40 and VP-9. Also served with CPWL in early 80's. After making CWO-2 it was all sea duty, USS Carl Vinson, VAQ-34, VXE-6 (Brrrrrrr) and VF-24 (USS Nimitz). Retired in 93, now coordinating/instructing Auto Technology at Muskingum Tech here in Zanesville. Drop me a line anytime!..." [17FEB99]

MOORE, CDR Dick Retired moore_richard@bah.com "...I would like to say hello to all those old squadron mates that I pissed off at one time or another. VP-30 (RAG) NAS Patuxent River, Maryland Jan-Jun '71, VP-45 NAS Jacksonville, Florida Jun '71- Sep '75, VP-93 Selfridge Apr'76-Mar'81, VP-92 NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts Mar'81-Nov'85, VP-68 Andrews AFB Nov'85-Mar'86, Navy Command Center NCC-106 Pentagon Mar'86-Jan'90, OP-06-106 Pentagon Jan'90-Aug'93. Recalled to Dessert Shield/Storm Aug'90-Jul'91 JCS Crisis Action Team..." [E-Mail Updated 30APR2001 | E-Mail Updated 29JUN2000 | E-Mail Updated 18DEC98 | 03SEP98]

MORETTI, Pat pmoretti@dew.sc.gov "...I served with VP-68 (07/1979-08/1982). It was an incredible time of growing in my Naval career - one I look back on often. Many friends and pleasant memories..." [E-Mail Updated 27FEB2013 | E-Mail Updated 11OCT99 | 18OCT97]

MORRIS, AFCM(AW) Charles M. Retired charles@cmmorrislaw.us "...I served with VA-205 from 1970 until 1972 and then transfered to VA-203. In 1977 I was lucky enough to transfer to NAS Patuxent River, Maryland where I served with VP-68 until my transfer to the Naval Aviation Logistics Center at Pax River. In 1982 I was transfered to VP-60 where I served until 1985. At that time, I was transfered to VR-46 where I retired in 1988. After retirement, I finished law school and currently I'm a lawyer in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Would love to hear from you..." [E-Mail Updated 15APR2004 | 09APR99]

MORRIS, Scott "Delmar" aocmorris@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-9 from 1985 thru 1989 and did three deployments including NAS Adak, Alaska, NAS Misawa, Japan/P.I. and NSF Diego Garcia/DET-B. I was then transfered to VP-31 as an FRAMP-NAMTRAGRUDET and flight instructor. After my tour in VP-31 I became a TAR and transfered to VP-68. I am currently flying C-130's as a Loadmaster. I would like to hear from any old Shipmates of mine who may remember me, it was great seeing so many familar names from the past..." [E-Mail Updated 29MAY2006 | 04DEC99]

MULLOY, CDR Stephen "Steve" Retired steve.mulloy@outlook.com "...I served in VP-56, VX-1, SDC Dallas, VP-68 and VP-64..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 16DEC2021 | E-Mail Updated 04JAN2009 | 07NOV2001]

MURRAY, Thomas G. hiwheel@erols.com "...I served with VP-17 from 1983 to 1986, VP-4549 from 1987-1988 and VP-68 from 1988-1992..." [12NOV2000]


NEWMAN, AMSC James Retired j_newman1@bellsouth.net "...Hey to all the VP-68, VP-67 and COMRESPATWINGPAC Shipmates. I served with VP-68 (01APR79 to 27MAY86), VP-67 (01JUN86 to 28JUL91) and COMRESPATWINGPAC (01AUG91 to 31JUL94). I retired from service August 1998 from AIMD NASJRB Fort Worth, TX. Drop me a line sometime would love to hear from old Shipmates..." [08SEP2008]

NIELSON, Charles nielsonc@msn.com "...I served with VP-68 from 1985-1990. I got off of active duty and then enterd the reserves. I went to VAQ-209 at Andrews Airforce Base then moved to West Virginia, and now with a cargo handling unit. My civilian job in WV was building aircraft for a private canadian business. Now I work at a company as a fluid power engineer. I will retire from the reserves in 2006..." [03FEB2001]


OBERG, AMCS(NAC) Gary Retired usintenn@earthlink.net "...I think I may have had the longest consecutive tour with VP-60 as a TAR (Dec 77 - Jul 85). I was there so long everyone thought I was a SELRES. One great squadron with many fond memories. Loved the flying and professionalism of all the people in the squadron. As we all know we could fly circles around the "common Navy" folks. From VP-60 I went to another great squadron VP-68 and retired from there in 1990. Since then I have been following my wife Karen, a former VP-60 Cobra PN and now a LCDR, through her career. We are currently in Fallon, NV and I am working for Boeing on contract maintenance for the former "TOPGUN" school. Would love to hear from former Cobra's and Blackhawks..." [E-Mail Updated 29OCT99 | E-Mail Updated 20MAR99 | 21MAR98]

ODENTHAL, Joe "Odie" odenthal@erols.com "...Greetings to all, I was an "HS" sailor on active duty but upon Reserve affiliation was introduced to the VP Navy. I was in VP-68A1 in 1970 and then as an AWHAN. I was part of the Commissioning crew of VP-68 1 NOV 70. I left VP-68 as an ATC on 1 FEB 92 when I was commissioned as an Aviation Maintenance Technecian, CWO/W2. I joined VP-68 at NAF Washington, D.C., made the move fron P-2s to P-3s and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland then back to NAF Washington, D.C.. Four months with VR-48/53 and on to Reserve Patrol Wing, Atlantic in Norfolk 1 JUN 92. I moved again 1 APR 93, this time to the Condors of VP-64 at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania as MMCO. I returned to VP-68 with 1 day TAD orders for the DE-COM. I shall retire from VP-64 APR 99. Will I be the last VP-68 Plankowner to retire?..." [14MAR98]

OWENS, AD2 Kathleen kat3075@aol.com "...I was stationed in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, AIMD from 1982-1986, then i joined VP-68 and was there until 89. I would love to here from anyone!..." [14OCT98]

O'LEARY, Sean MD11Fr8Dog@aol.com "...I served with VP-16 from 88-92 as a pilot, PPC/MC of CAC 6 and half of the notorious Meat and Sven show. I did deployments to NAS Bermuda, NAS Sigonella, Sicily and NAS Keflavik, Iceland, where I ran the Brass Nut as CINCNUT! I left active duty in 93 and drilled with Reserve Patrol Wing Atlantic for a year, and then VP-68 from 94-96. I am currently an airline pilot with FedEx..." [E-Mail Updated 23JUL2001 | 22JUN98]

OSBORNE, HENRY "OZ" osborneh@rbcinc.com "...AT1 (AW/NAC) "OZ" STILL HANGING OUT IN THE P-3 COMMUNITY. CURRENTLY I WORK FOR THE P-3 CLASS DESK AT NAVAIR. WAS IN VP-64 (77-79), VP-68 (79-81), VP-4 (81-83), VP-22 (83-85), CINCUSNAVEUR(86-89), VXN-8 (89-93). DROP ME A LINE. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE KEVIN LANDIS ATC IS???..." [23MAR98]

OSTROFF, Jeff Retired jeffostroff@embarqmail.com "...I served with VP-31 in October 1974, VP-6 (IFT on Crew 3) from January 1975 through December 1976, VP-23 NAS Brunswick, Maine (Flying P-3Bs as an IFT and Radio Operator), and VX-1 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (Flew an EP-3A as IFT). I went civilian and got a job flying specially modified P-3As for General Offshoe Corp. out of St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. Re-entered acive duty in 1984 as a P-3C IFT student at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, VP-40 at NAS Moffett Field, California from 1985 to 1998, TAR with VP-62 NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1988 to 1992, VP-68 NAF Washington, D.C. from 1992 to 1996, and VR-53 NAF Washington, D.C. until I retired October. I would like to hear from any former Shipmates. Thanx!..." [E-Mail Updated 11JUL2007 | E-Mail Updated 11JUN2006 | E-Mail Updated 21JAN2004 | E-Mail Updated 08JUL2001 | 16AUG98]

OVERMAN, Graham overmnw@gmail.com "...I served with VP-50 at NAS Moffett Field, California, P-3C NAV/COM, TACCO, MC, addu WST Instructor, Oct 1981 to Aug 1985. CAC-10, CAC-9, CAC-3. Deployed to NAF Misawa, Japan, NAS Adak, Alaska and NSF Diego Garcia. Follow-on tour at DIA (1985-1989), then RAD to USNR VP-1649 at NAF Andrews, Maryland (1989-1991) in P-3B TACNAV MOD, VP-68 (1991-1996) at NAF Andrews, Maryland in P-3B TACNAV MOD and P-3C U1 and P-3C U2, Naval Space Reserve Program (1996-2009) when I retired. DoD contractor from 1989 to 2022 when I retired again. Now live in the Northern Virginia area..." [23MAR2024]


PASSMORE, Rear Admiral Robert O. http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/people/flags/biographies/passmorero.html "...Rear Admiral Robert O. Passmore is a native of Ellensburg, Wash. He attended the University of Washington on an NROTC scholarship, and received both his commission in the Navy and a Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanography in June 1972. Earning his pilot wings in October 1973, Rear Adm. Passmore's first assignment was instructor duty at VT-2, NAS Whiting Field, Milton, Florida. In 1975, Rear Adm. Passmore was ordered to VP-50, NAS Moffett Field, California. In 1979, he became a Drilling Reservist serving with both VP-91 at NAS Moffett Field, California and VP-69 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. In 1980, he joined VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland as one of the Full-Time Support Officers. In August 1983, Rear Adm. Passmore transferred to VP-67 at NAS Memphis, Tennessee. During this tour he completed a Master of Science degree in Computer Science. Released from active duty in October 1985, Rear Adm. Passmore affiliated with VP-69. He assumed command of VP-69 in December 1989. In June 1991, he reported to VTU-8989 where he drilled until being selected as Commanding Officer of NR CVN-68, USS Nimitz 0289 in January 1994. In October 1995 Rear Adm. Passmore took on duties as Commanding Officer of Naval Reserve NAS Whidbey Island, Washington 4089. Two years later he was selected to be the Navy Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer (NEPLO) for the State of Washington. In October of 1998, he assumed the position of Deputy for Mission Effectiveness at Naval Reserve Readiness Command Region Twenty-two, Naval Station Everett, Wash. Rear Adm. Passmore's first flag assigned was Deputy Commander, Maritime Surveillance and Reconnaissance Forces, Sixth Fleet, and Deputy Commander, Fleet Air Mediterranean in NAF Naples, Italy, from 1 October 2000 to 30 September 2003. In May 2002, he was assigned Additional Duty as Commander, Naval Reserve Readiness Command Northwest. Rear Adm. Passmore is currently assigned as Reserve Deputy Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, and Vice Commander, Navy Region Europe. His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (2nd award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3rd award), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2nd award). Rear Adm. Passmore is a captain on the 767 aircraft with United Airlines..." [12FEB2005]

PATE, AVCM George PateGH@navair.navy.mil "...Shipmates! I was stationed with VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from 77-80 as a Flight Engineer. I then went on to VP-62 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida from 1980 to 1985. I then returned to VP-68 at Andrews AFB working as the Maintenance Control and later QA chief and of course flight engineer until my selction for the Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 31 Gold) in March of 1988. I then went on to do a tour in VR-60 in Memphis with a follow on tour in tailhooks in Dallas. I returned to VP-62 in August of 1994 as the Command Master Chief until December 1996 when I was selected as the Command Master Chief for Commander Reserve Patrol Wing Atlantic at NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Sept of 97 brought me to my final tour in the Navy back at NAS Jacksonville, Florida at NAVAIRES as the CM/C. Glad to see lots of familiar names on this page. Would like to hear from my old Shipmates. Drop me a line..." [E-Mail Updated 13JUL99 | 04FEB98]

PAYTON, AMCS Don Retired DJRSP@aol.com "...serving with VP-65 at NAS Point Mugu, California at the tail end of the P-2 era and just starting the P-3 transition (73-74) and with VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (74-76). It is interesting to see how squadrons have carried on and how many now have disestablished and we only have our memories and memorablia remaining of times past. To those of VP-90, "Skinny" Brown was NOT exaggerating about about his and Mike's FE class shrinking from 16 to 3. I was one those who disappeared from FE Class 7601. There were many reserves in that class. Interesting though is that the 2 reservists ended up with a long flying career and the reamaining active duty sailor didn't. Ask Skinny about the FE trainee from VP-60 who slapped the full Commander's hands for being on the power levers in the simulator! Anybody from VP-68 remember the name of the SAR FE who used to commute from West Virginia every weekend to fly? He was another legend and we often wondered about his home life. Though I went back on active duty with E-2's, what I learned as an aircrewman helped me to be a much better Metalsmith and Maintenance Chief. Yes for those of you who where at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii in the late 80's I was the Production Control Chief who gave you a hard time..." [06FEB98]

PENNYPACKER, AVCM Granville "Lee" Retired penzack@hotmail.com "...I served with VP-5 (1982-1986), NADC (1986-1990), VP-68 (1992-1996), VR-56 (1996-2010) and retired from the reserves (12/2010) after more than 30 years Active/Reserve time. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 19AUG2012 | E-Mail Updated 17AUG2012 | 11DEC98]

PERLICK, CDR Chris cperlick@hotmail.com "...I served as a AD2 (also Utility aircrewman) with VXN-8 from June 1976 through Oct 1979 and a AD1 with VP-68 from October 1979 through May 1984. Commissioned as Ensign, Supply Corps. With RESPATWINGLANT at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland then NAS Norfolk, Virginia through 1988. Since then several tours, most notable: CO of NWS Earle Det, CO ELSF Fuels Det, J3(OPS) of COMLANTFLT JTF, and now Overseas Depot Manager for AIR 6.0 in NAVAIR 6066 reserve unit..." [18SEP2003]

PHILLIPS, AWC Larry Retired lwphill@yahoo.com "...Retired in 1989 at VP-69, also served in VP-68, VP-91, VP-90, CRPWP and RTU65/VP-65..." [10SEP2001]

PIPKIN, AZC Bill pipkinb@ameritel.net "...I was a member of VAW-13 from December 1965 until mid 1968. I began as a parachute rigger and Plane Captain changed to AZ then transferred to NAS Memphis, Tennessee for duration. Made one trip to NAS Cubi Point, Philippines in 1966. I reinlisted in 1973, did a tour in VS-73 ( NAF Detroit, Michigan), VP-93 ( NAF Detroit, Michigan), VR-58 ( NAS Jacksonville, Florida), VP-68 NAS Patuxent River, Maryland / NAF Washington, D.C.) and retired in 1989 as AZC. Is anyone still out there from VAW-13 or NAF Detroit, Michigan that may remember me? If so, contact me for old sea stories..." [21MAR2003]

PRICE, CDR Michael S. "Mike" USNR pricefam8@verizon.net "...I served with VP-48 (05/1986-03/1990). Jobs were Ground Safety, Weapons Training, Aviation Safety and Maintenance Quality Assurance Officer. Patrol Plane Commander, Mission Commander and Instructor Pilot. I also served with VP-68 (10/1990-12/1996). Retired from Naval Reserves. Currently still Flying with American Airlines as Check Pilot B737..." [12AUG2024]


Memorial Picture "...RANDOLPH, Paul J...Daily Press, Sunday, January 14, 2001. Any questions, please contact Dick Fickling at p3css1@aol.com "Paul J. Randolph YORKTOWN Paul J. Randolph crossed over Friday, Jan. 12, 2001, peacefully in his sleep, at home. Born in Bay St. Louis, Miss., on Oct. 15, 1950, he had been a Peninsula resident since 1963. Paul retired from the US Navy after 26 years of service. He was an independent distributor for Home Interiors and Gifts and attended First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Newport News. Paul was a 1968 graduate of Newport News High School, attended Christopher Newport University, president of VP-68 Association, a member of the American Legion, and Fleet Reserve Association. Survivors include his wife, Janice T. Randolph; two daughters, Kimberly Maltos of San Antonio, Texas, and Ashleigh Randolph of the home; three sons, Kurt Taskey of Yorktown, James P. Randolph of Germany, and Troy Taskey of Yorktown; his mother, Shelley Randolph of Newport News; his father, Jim Randolph of Biloxi, Miss.; two sisters, Nancy Wilson of Yorktown and Sandra Miller of Yorktown; two brothers, James F. Randolph of Newport News and David A. Randolph of St. Louis, Mo.; five grandchildren, Nicholas Maltos, Brandon Randolph, Ryan Randolph, Michele Taskey, and Alyssa Maltos; and a plethora of loving nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15, at Peninsula Funeral Home. A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Parklawn Memorial Park, by readers Shelley Randolph and Rick Fuller. In keeping with Paul's generosity to others, contributions may be made to your favorite charity." Contributed by AWCS Richard Fickling, USNR Ret. p3css1@aol.com [17JAN2001]

RANDOLPH, Paul J. Paul_J@email.msn.com "...PROUDLY served with VP-68 from '78-95. Retired in Tidewater, Va. area as owner of a local Freight Delivery Service. Am on the Executive Board of the newly formed VP-68 Alumni Association. Encourage ANYONE with past ties to the Squadron to contact Dick Fickling or myself for Association information and sign-ups. Association is planning a Summer98' Get-Together in the Wash.DC area and NEEDS to have a CURRENT snail/email for Squadron Shipmates interested in keeping our "Tradition Of Caring/Sharing" alive! Interested in hearing from ALL former Shipmates..." [14MAR98]

REVILL, Shane Patrick "Tin Mann" oldtinmann@juno.com "...Entered the Navy in 1985. Attached to the VP-68 "Blackhawks" in 1985 thur 1990. I was an In-Flight technician for Crew-4 "The Sky-Pigs". In 1990 I started Drilling with the VP-93 "Executioners". Flying with Crew 8 I served there until it's decommissioning in 1994. From 1994 to 1996 I served with a helicopter mining sguadron HM-18 out of NAS Norfolk, Virginia. Today I'm an Avionics Tecnician for Kalitta Air in Oscoda MI, working on Boeing 747's. God's speed to all my former Shipmates, I would love to hear from you..." [12JUL2003]

RINDFLEISCH, LCDR Ralph RRindfl215@aol.com "...I was VP-68's Flight Surgeon from 1992 until its' disestablishment in 1996. I am trying to find out if someone in the squadron is keeping information regarding squadron members in the event of future Reunion, etc..." [18APR98]

ROBITAILEE, Ed edwardr@marvell.com "...I was a Air Crew man in VP-26 from 1970 through 1972 and VP-68 from 1972 through 1976..." [20MAR2001]

ROCKETT, ENS Bill bill.rockett@ifriendly.com "...I flew with VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland before we were moved to NAF Andrews, Maryland from 1982 thru 1985. I would love to hear from any of the old Shipmates. I am now and Intelligence Officer in Ft. Worth TX..." [03NOV2004]

RUSSELL, Robert "Bob" robert_russell@att.net "...I served with VP-68 from 1980 to 1984 as a TAR with AX and then AT ratings. Most likely if any of you remember me from that time period, you'll remember me as that kid who had way too much California in him. What can I say. I arrived at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland fresh out of boot camp and 'A' school as a 24 year old with a wife and one year old son, and left four years later with a daughter added to the family. Serving with VP-68 was the fulfillment of a dream for me at that time and those years remain some of the most memorable of my life. Achieving Aircrewman status as an IFT was icing on the cake. I saw many names I recognized on the Shipmates page: Hap Walker I'll never forget you and Kenny Hoover you too. Many fond memories of deployments to NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal also. Please email and say hi, share a memory or a picture..." [23MAY2008]


SALIGA, Stan forktaildv@aol.com "...Enlisted in USNR at NAF Washington, D.C. (Andrews AFB) in November 1967. Did my 2 weeks with VP-68-A2 at NS Rota, Spain. Stayed with squadron until regular active duty. First station was NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (earned my AC wings there-Rescue Swimmer). Then went to HC-1-DET6 (Imperial Beach) for deployment to CVW-19 aboard USS Oriskany (CVA34) bound for Yankee Station. Last duty was with HC-2, NAS Lakehurst until January 1971. Got caught up in the personnel cutbacks. Any aircrew that did a WESTPAC, I'm looking for anyone else that attended FAETUPAC S.E.R.E. for some information. Thanks..." [30MAR2002]

SCHULTEA, LCDR Patrick Retired patric.schultea@aventis.com "...I was a navigator in VP-68 from 1978 until retirement in 1992. I was the longest running officer on the great Crew 8. We flew the Alpha and B Mod on deployments..." [07JAN2002]

SCHULTZ, ATC Ed "Skinny" Retired ezlivin2009@live.com "...I was assigned to VP-40 from 1971 to June of 1977. I went to work for Lockheed as field service rep and am now working as a P-3C Engineer Specialist. I'm still associated with the VP community as a QAR in VP-62. Anyone interseted, we have several VP-40 Alumni here at Lockheed including Dave "the Buffallo" Weye...also served with VP-62 and VP-68. I did retired from VP-62 in 2000 and retired from Lockheed in 2009..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 05MAR2010 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 28APR2000 | 00XXX97]

SCHAUS, Nicholas J. schausnj@aol.com "...As VP-68 AIO and COMRESPATWINGLANT INTEL OFFICER, I am extremly pleased to find this superb site. My "VP" association started in my childhood living on the Chesapeake near the mouth of Middle River. Middle River is adjacent to the Martin Co. plant where the PBM, P5, and the P6 (Seamaster), etc. were constructed and test flown. It was great sport to attempt to "chase " these birds or get close to in my father's boat in the late 1950's. Still associated with Martin (MTN Airport) through my civilian employment and pleased that there is a Martin Avaition Museum on the airport, which VPers would find greatly interesting. Last month by chance bumped into my former COMRESPATWINGLANT, CAPT Mike Nash, who is now an airport manager in NC..." [21NOV98]

SEIDEL, Jim SEIDELNAVY@aol.com "...Currently Commanding Officer of the Naval Air Reserve ASW Training Center at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. As a TAR Served on: CNARF staff New Orleans, Officer in Charge of VP-64 NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, VP-68 NAF Wash. DC and VP-SAU Program Manager NAF Wash. DC. Active duty included VP-30 (1984-86) and VP-56 (1981-84). Please drop me a line anytime!..." [17JUN98]

SENTZ, TIM CMS007@AOL.COM "...DID TOURS WITH VP-30, VP-50 (84-88), VP-31-CNAP/NATOPS (88-91), MMFA ( NAS Jacksonville, Florida), VP-62, VP-68, CURRENTLY AN AOC IN VP-91..." [19MAR98]

SHEA, CAPTAIN Bob robert.shea@business.wm.edu "...I've been fortunate to serve in many great squadrons: VP-45, VP-92, VP-60, VP-68 and VP-91, CRPWP, and VP-66 (CO). I'm currently a faculty member at the Naval War College..." [E-Mail/BIO Updated 25JUL2005 | 09JUN98]

SIKES, ADAN Lindy lindysikes@hotmail.com "...Hey to everybody from VP-68 from 1986-1990!! Flahrety, Edgely, Costa,"Zipper" and anybody else who was there at that time, feel free to drop a line. I'm still married to Kim and I still tell her those were some of the best days of my life. I finished my degree in Music Education and I'm a band director just outside of Savannah, GA. I look forward to hearing from anyone from 68 during that time..." [02JAN2002]

SILER, AS2 Robert J. Jr. RSilerjr@aol.com "...I served with VP-68 from July 1995 until decom in December 1996. Best time I had in any squadron I've served in. I am now pushing wrenches in AIMD in NAS JRB Willow Grove, Pennsylvania SE Division. Look forward to checking out the Webpage of the mighty BLACKHAWKS..." [22NOV99]

SISLO, Paul ily247@freewwweb.com "...I was a AMS with VP-90 from "72 to 88" and from "88 to 93" with VP-68..." [22JAN99]

SIX, Michael sixmd@efdlant.navfac.navy.mil "...FEAP in VP-48 from 1989 until its decommissioning. Affiliated with VP-9 in 1991 became a qualified, P-3 FE as an Airman. Detachments include Subic Bay, Panama, NAS Misawa, Japan, and NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan. Discharged out of the Navy in 1993, began school at the Univ. Of Maryland, and joined VP-68 as a FE, until 1995 then affiliated with VP-66. I graduated from the UMD in the summer of 98 with an engineering degree, and work as an engineer for the Navy in Norfolk, VA, and was recently commissioned as an Ensign in the Intel community..." [03FEB99]

SLUSSER, Jim JHSLUSSER@AOL.COM "...I was attached to VP-68 for a short period around 1978, as a Reservist. I spent 3 1/2 years at the US NAVAL TEST PILOT SCHOOL, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, as an ADR-3 in Power Plants and Check Crew 2/69 to 7/72. Looking for any old Shipmates that may be around. I have found Sal Cachia and Ted Formeister. If any of you guys are out there let me know. We had a lot of guys that transferred to and from the VP ranks. Also, if anyone is looking for the following, Jim Nuzum AMS-3 VXN-8 (1970-73) or Forest (Butch) Arnett ASW-3 AMID 1971-72, they live close by. See you..." [25JUL99]

SOAPER, Steven J. stevensoap@verizon.net "...I served with VP-68 from June 1973 to September 1980. My first 4 years were as a SAR and I then re-enlisted and went TAR from 1977 till 1980. I was an AT and also flew as an FCO while serving with the "Blackhawks". I worked for the Navy as a Flight Test Electronics Technician about a half mile away from hangar 101 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I worked at the Naval Rotary Wing Test Squadron and enjoyed working on aircraft. I recently retired and living in St. Mary's County, Maryland. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [Updated E-Mail 26JAN2010 | 02AUG99]

SPEAKS, ADCS Paul Retired pspeaks43@yahoo.com "...I served with VP-31, VP-68, VP-60, Commander Reserve Patrol Wing Atlantic and VP-65 before coming to my senses and going to Flight Engineer School. I served with VF-101 at NAS Key West, Florida and in VF-84 and VF-201 abroad Independence, Saratoga, and Kennedy and as an instructor at NAS Floyd Bennett Field, New York. I also worked on F-8's and A-7's at Ling-Temco-Vaught and on F-111's at General Dynamics. If you have time, drop me an email, I currently work in the entertainment business and get very few opportunities to communicate with my old Navy buddies..." [E-Mail Updated 15AUG2008 | E-Mail Updated 27FEB2004 | 14MAY2000]

SWAIN, Stephen H. shstls1@verizon.net "...Enlisted in Navy TAR program in 1971. I served with VP-64 from 1971 to 1975. Worked with Chief Allen in operations as ASW sensor I NATOPS instructor. After active duty served 2 years reserve in VP-64 and VP-68..." [17JAN2009]


TAIT, AWC Robert S. Retired navcporetrt@gmail.com "...I served with VP-45, VP-67, VP-68, VP-94, NAS Albany, Georgia, NAS AIMD NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida, Strike Test Directorate at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and and retired in 1995. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 15AUG2017 | E-Mail/BIO Updated 22APR2003 | E-Mail Updated 12FEB99 | BIO Updated 11FEB99 | E-Mail Updated 23JUN98]

TORSTENSON, Al "Chief T" a.torstenson@comcast.net "...I served with VP-17 in 1967, VP-2 in 1968, VP-69 in 1983 (P-3 FE and became (TAR)), VP-69, VP-64, VP-68 and VR-61 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. I retired in the Seattle area and am loving it. Twenty four years is plenty. I would like to hear from former Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 01MAY2009 | 04FEB98]


VALLE, Jacque La lavalle_jacque%pax4@mr.nawcad.navy.mil "...I was a 19 year member of VP-68 with the first four as a TAR from 1977 to 1981. Reaffiliated as a SELRES and grew through the ranks to AVCM before decommissioning. Currently the Reserve CMC for VP-92 with another 6 years before HYT. Currently employeed at NAVAIR as the E-2C/C-2A Electrical Power Systems competency team leader and keep involved with the P-3 Special Projects and Retrofits group, trying to keep the P-3 mission alive and well..." [24MAR98]


WAGNER, TSGT Gary D. USAF Retired gwagnavy@gmail.com "...Attended Boot Camp at NATC Great Lakes from June 1969 to August 1969, Service Schools at NATTC NAS Millington, Tennessee from September 1969 to December 1969, VP-30 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland from January 1970 to February 1970, VP-5 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida from Febuary 1970 to March 1973 with deployments to NAS Sigonella, Sicily from February to June 1970 (2nd P-3 squadon into NAS Sigonella, Sicily after VP-44), NS Rota, Spain from March to July 1971 (awarded the Battle "E") and NAS Sigonella, Sicily from March to August 1972 (we did a 9 plane formation fly-over for the base Change of Command). Seperated for Active duty March 1973 and was discharged 1975. Reenlisted Naval Reserve February 1979 and served with VP-68 at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland with deployments to NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal, NAS Bermuda and a detachment to Ascension Island in the south Atlantic. We won the Noel Davis Trophy in 1982 and 2 CNO safety awards. In January 1987 left Navy and joined Airforce 459th Cams Andrews AFB hydraulic tech. on C141B Cargo Aircraft. Retired May 1995..." [12JUN2010]

WALKER, Hap Retired hcwalker@aol.com "...I was a tron with VP-68 at Pax River from 1978 until 1983 when I went to the precom crew for VP-MAU Brunswick. Stayed there until '89 and then to VR-62 in Detroit where I retired in '93. I am currently in grad school at the University of Georgia..."

WALLACE, Jack jnkswall@comcast.net"...I served with VP-40 from March 1986 until August 1989. Was PPC of Crew 9 and deployed to NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan and NAF Misawa, Japan. From VP-40 transferred to NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and VT-31 as an multi-engine Instructor pilot flying T-44A Kingair turboprops. After two years became a TAR and was assigned to VP-68 at NAF Andrews, Maryland (Andrews AFB, Maryland). From VP-68 I transitioned to VR and flew the Navy C-130T Hercules with VR-53 while remaining at NAF Andrews, Maryland. Left active duty after 14 years but drilled with the Naval Reserve and initially served in the Navy Command Center at the Pentagon for almost two years. Got command of Navy Central Command detachment 0861 at Navy & Marine Corps Reserve center West Palm Beach, Florida. Retired out of the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) in 2012. Logged over 3600 Navy pilot hours! Live in Annapolis and am a captain with Delta Air Lines..." [BIO Updated 03NOV2020 | 07NOV2003]

WALLACE, AOC(NAC)AW Louis Chance, Jr. "Wally" Retired wallace.chance@ngc.com "...I served with VP-68 (03/1974-31/12/1994) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, RTU68 (06/1973-03/1974) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, USS Independence (CVA-62) (03/1971-03/1973) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia, Air Launched Weapons School (02/1971-03/1971) at NAS Norfolk, Virginia, Naval Weapons Test Squadron (WST) (08/1969-02/1971) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, RTC Great Lakes (01/1969-03/1969), AO "A" School Naval Air Training Center (03/1969-08/1969) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." [07AUG2020]

WALRATH, ATCS Kenneth W. Retired kwalrath@eagle1.eaglenet.com "...VP-8 Patuxent River 1970-72, VP-30 1972-1975 as a P-3A/B Radioman and Inflight Tech Instructor, and VP-68 1975-85..."

WEBB, AWC (NAC) Patrick R. II "The Spudman" prwebbii@cvzoom.net "...I served with VS-41 from 1976 to 1977, USS Forrestal (CV-59) from 1977 to 1979, VS-30 from 1979 to 1981, Shore Duty at the VS Support Unit at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida, VP-SAU at NAF Andrews, Maryland, VP-68 from 1985 to 1986 and VP-64 ever since! Affectionately referred to as "SPUD, SPUDLEY, SPUDDLES, etc. I embrace all my VP Shipmates!..." [E-Mail Updated 28NOV2009 | 14MAR98]

WEBB, AFCM(AW) Ron rwebb@misi.net "...I served as the Command Master Chief for VP-93 from Jan 93 till its decom in Sept 94. Served as the Command Master Chief of VP-68 from Oct 94 until its decom in Dec 96. Currently serving as Command Master Chief of Naval Air Reserve Activity Selrfidge, Selfridge ANGB, MI. I was good to see some of my old Shipmates e-mail addresses..." [25JAN98]

WEISENBURGER, AWCS Joe "Mojo" Joe_W11@excite.com "...My tours of duty include: U.S. Joint Forces Command and Commander Reserve Patrol Wing NAS Norfolk, Virginia, the BlackHawks of VP-68 NAF Washington, D.C., SAU VP-0516 (later VP-0545) NAS Jacksonville, Florida, the Golden Eagles of VP-9 NAS Moffett Field, California and the Pro's Nest of VP-30 NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Drop me a line..." [11JUL2002]

WHITE, YN1(AW) Mary Ellen Retired mewhite18@verizon.net "...I served aboard NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts (drilling reservist) from 1973 to 1975 (TAR February 1975), Active Duty Training and Administration of Reserves (TAR) at NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts in VP SRU from 1975 to 1979, VP-92, VR-52 at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania from 1980 to 1983, Naval Military Personnel Command (NMPC) in Washington DC from 1983 to 1986, VP-68 at NAF Andrews, Maryland from 1986 to 1989, Naval Supply Center at NAS Pearl Harbor, Hawaii from 1989 to 1992 and Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center, Manchester, NH from 1992 to 1995. I retired from active duty February 1995..." [E-Mail Updated 24MAY2019 | E-Mail Updated 04AUG2009 | BIO Updated 16DEC2005 | BIO Updated 12DEC2005 | 10APR2005 | 18APR99]

WILCOX, PNC Clyde Retired clydemw@msn.com "...I served with VP-68 (11/1973-11/1976) at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland and NAVal REServe REaDiness COMmand REGion (NAVRESREDCOMREG) 16 (11/1976-10/1980) at NAS Twin Cities, Minnesota. When it comes to my service with VP-68 - the only one's I can get hold of is Doc George DURITY and Samuel LEVINER who was a recruiter. PN1 Doyle was in VP-68 on full time active duty. YN1 Homer Buffalohide a reservist was also in VP-68 and I lost contact with both. If either sees this e-mail send me and e-mail..." [BIO Updated 24MAR2015 | E-Mail Updated 29SEP2012 | 10MAR2011]

Memorial Picture "...WILLIAMS, Evelyn Kathleen (Kathy)...She passed away October 25th, 2023. She served with VP-68..." Contributed by Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [14DEC2023]

WILLIAMS, Evelyn Kathleen (Kathy) pappydave2@yahoo.com "...I first began my Naval Career in 1974 when I was on Active Duty at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. I discharged from the Active Branch of the Navy in 1979 after I had my first daughter in 1978. My husband, daughter and I then moved back home to Southern Maryland. It was there that I began my duty as a Selective Reservist with VP-68. After 4 years as a SELRES, I enlisted as a TAR (an Active Reserve). I was then transferred to the Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. Next, I was sent back to VP-68 as the Training Yeoman for the Flight Crews and their Pilots in the Training Department. I still today, after having memories brought back to me a while back from Retired YN1 Maryellen White, can remember a lot of Great Times, especially with CAC 4 (Our very own SkyPigs)! They all should remember me because I do believe I was taller than ANY of them! If anyone out there, by the way, knows the whereabouts of LCDR Terry Cooke and Family, I would love to correspond with him. Next, after VP-68 was sent to NAF Washington, D.C., I was assigned with them again. The very last command I had was a Readiness Command Region 13 at the Naval Education and Training Center at Great Lakes, IL which is in a small town called North Chicago. It was also there that I was forced out in 1995 with only 5 years to go and I couldn't even reenlist. After my Honorable Discharge in 1995 until 1999, I worked for an Attorney and then for a Contractor as the Leave Coordinator and American Red Cross Liaison for the students at the Service School Command at NETC Great Lakes, IL. It was a Great job but we moved again in 1999 to where we are now and I have worked for Wal-mart, Inc. for the past 5 years because there were no other jobs when we arrived. That's my history to date and I was so grateful and thrilled to hear from M. E. White and get ALL the scoop on what's been happening and what will happen!..." [28AUG2004]

WILSON, Bob rewilson@attmail.com "...Served in VP-68 as a TAR from 1979-1985. Affiliated with VP-67 in 1985 and retired (AOC) in 1994 when the squadron was sacrificed for the sake of budget cuts. Flew from 1981-1994 with some of the best people in the world and I would like to hear from some of them out there..." [20OCT99]

WINTER, MCPO Kenneth Retired khwinter@gwi.net "...I was on active duty with VP-21 and VP-10 from 1968 to 1972. I then joined VP-68. After VP-68, I joined the VP-MAU at NAS Brunswick, Maine. I retired from the Naval Reserve in 1994 from the TSC unit as a Senior Chief..." [02JUL2008]

WOODALL, J. H. "Woody" JhUnclwdy@aol.com "...I served in VP-68 from 1977 through 1980. Some of the best times I ever had in my 10 year tour as a TAR were in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. I'd be glad to hear from any of the Shipmates I served with any time..." [30OCT99]

Memorial Picture "...WRIGHT, Kathy...AWC BAILEY passed away September 19th, 2020. She served with VP-68 (1979-1991)..." Contributed by Contributed by BENTON, AT1 John bentonj456@gmail.com [14DEC2023]


YARD, AMSC J. A. Retired jyard44@gmail.com "...I served with VS-38 (1963-1966), VP-50 (1969-1971), VP-68 (1978-1980), NATTC NAS Millington, Tennessee (AMS Instructor Duty), VQ-1 (1985-1988), VX-1 (1988-1990) and retired at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (1990)..." [01JUL2014]

YOHN, AZ2 Nancy A. nielsen10@juno.com "...I was Active Duty at VC-6, Norfolk 79-82 and then pulled arduous Duty in NAS Bermuda 82-84. Affiliated with the Reserves in NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii 84-89 and then returned to the mainland to NAS Norfolk, Virginia with COMRESPATWINGLANT 89-90. Moved on to VP-68 Oct 90 until Decommissioning 1996. Went on some GREAT DETS and made GREAT FRIENDS for life. Currently spending my last years with VP-62. Like to hear from Shipmates..." [E-Mail Updated 18JAN2001 | E-Mail Updated 29JAN2000 | 14OCT98]


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