GUESTBOOK
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 Guest #266 added July 11, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Jack Frame
City: Gaithersburg
State: MD
Country: US
Age: 50-59
Found: Search engine
Found More:
Military: none
Comments: My father, Mark B. Frame (photo) was a co pilot on
a PBY in the Pacific theatre during WW II. He was stationed in
the Philippines and was part of the 6th Emergency Rescue Squadron.
I have many pictures and stories. |
Guest
#265 added July 11, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Jenny Scott
Location: Adelaide, SA
Country: Australia
Age: 50-59
Military: Air Force Brat 1950s
Comments: Dear PBY Memorial Foundation,
Thanks for a great website.
I am currently researching the history of RNZAF No.6 Flying Boat
Squadron 1943 to 1945 with a view to writing a book. Last month
we unveiled 6 Squadron's Battle Honours at RNZAF Whenuapai
and flew over Auckland in the NZ Catalina Groups
PBY
I have photos of 6 Squadron and Halavo Bay, Solomon Islands also
used by US Navy VP Squadrons on Flickr.
I am interested in hearing from anyone with a similar interest
particularly people who may know of US bomber and fighter aircrew
rescued by New Zealand PBYs Solomon Islands 1943-1945 |
Guest
#264 added Juy 5, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Mark Watts
City: Oak Harbor State: WA
Age: 30-39
How did I Find this site: Sign in front of your new "Cat"
Military: 7 years active Army. Dept of Navy employee 8 years.
Comments: It's just such a neat airplane! |
Guest
#263 added Juy 5, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Ron Fiedor
City: Chicago, IL
Age: 60-69
Military: Retired USN RESERVES Stationed NAS WHIDBEY ISLAND 1966-69
served later with VP-60 1981-92 then CV-62 USS Independence
1993-98(Reservist AT-2)
Comments: My father was stationed at the Seaplane Base in 1943.
He talked of ferrying older PBY's to Russian Women Pilots in
Kodiak, Alaska (spoke Polish and acted as an interpreter). My
dad, Walter Fiedor got out in 1945 as a Machinist Mate 1st Class
and was a crew chief in a Black Cat Squadron. When he was at
Whidbey Island (1943) he and his crew were grounded for a month
when it was discovered that they flew under the Deception Pass
span. I later learned from retired ground crew member how they
were caught upon landing! My dad dies in 1992 and could not remember
which VPB he was in but I remember the stories of being picked
up once by a US sub and also by a Russian Cruiser after damage
to their PBY. One of my Dad's officers stayed in the Navy and
in the early 50's came to our house, I think he was an instructor
with Cougars or Panthers(by the photographs he showed us). Hope
someone has some knowledge of his Navy career or can remeber
any of the above. |
Guest
#262 added June 16, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Richard Frisch
City: Mukilteo, WA
Military: None, but father and brother served in the United States
Navy.
Comments: I was delighted to be invited to the dedication ceremony
today at Simard Hall. I felt the CO of the base did a beautiful
presentation, it was very moving to see a few remaining servicemen
and persons that witnessed the construction of the NAS. Hy heartfelt
thanks to Ed hammond for the great opportunity to witness a great
moment in the history of Whidbey NAS, and to all our servicemen
that have worked so hard, and sacrificed so much to insure the
countinued frredom of our great nation. |
Guest
#261 added June 16, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Louis Dorny
City: Seattle, WA
Country: US
Age: 60-69
I'm a Lifelong naval aviation buff -
Military: USN/NR - ship driver, Russian linguist, NSG/SIGINT
operations.
Comments: Patrol Wing TEN (VP 101, VP 102, VP 22), Philippines
- Dutch East Indies, including Dutch Navy X- & Y-boats, &
No. 205 Sq, RAF, 1939-1942. Always looking for veteran/survivor
experiences and remembrances. |
Guest
#260 added June 16, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Linda Scarpino
City: Oxnard, CA
Age: 60-69
Military: None
Comments: My father flew PBY's during the war. |
Guest
#259 added June 16, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Glen Scott Sheppard
City: Palm Harbor, FL
Age: 60-69
Military: My father, Robert D. Sheppard, was the co-pilot on
the PBY that made an unscheduled landing on 14 Aug 44, on the
river by Laurieton, NSW, Australia, with Bob Hope, Jerry Colonna,
Tony Romano, Patty Thomas, Frances Langford and Barney Dean on
board. I am retired Army Chief Warrant Officer.
Comments: Trying to find the Hope PBY my dad flew. Do not have
the serial nbr but believe the nickname was "Spare Gear"
and the Pilot's last name was Ferguson. Also know Lt William
A. (Joe) Stinson was on board. He later was the best man at my
parents' wedding. Appreciate any information re the plane or
the Hope tour in the South Pacific July - Sept 1944. Be happy
to share a few pictures of the PBY with Hope and his troupe on
sandbar in Laurieton in 1944. |
Guest
#258 added June 16, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Ray Price Jr.
City: Frederick, MD
Age: 80-89
Military: USNR from 3/6/45-7/20/46
Comments: My father, Ray S. ("Rip") Price (born in
1890) was an ACMM in VP11 when the squadron received PBYs at
USNAS San Diego in 1936. He was plane crew and flew on the long
distance flights made in the late 1930s. The squadron was transferred
to Norfolk NAS about 1939 and was there on Dec 7, 1941. About
that time I believe that VP51 was split off from VP11 and he
went with that squadron. I remember they left to fly the planes
to Honolulu a few days after the Pearl Harbor attack. The squadron
then went to the Aleutian Islands when the Japanese took Kiska
and Attu. After several months there he was promoted to Warrant
Officer and transferred to NAS, Pensacola and promoted to Lt,
JG and made Officer-in-Charge of the Patrol plane overhaul there.
He was an accomplished artist and it was he who painted the VP11
insignia of Odin and the ravens. He died in the early 1970s.
If anyone remembers him, I'd like to hear.
Ray Price, Jr ( I'm his 83-year-old son) |
Guest
#257 added June 16, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Siggy
City: Palm Bay, Florida
Country: US
Age: 50-59
Military: US NAVY, aircraft carrier arresting gear work
Comments: Thank you all WW-2 veterans for what you did for us,
it is very much appreciated !!! I make leather flying unit patches
of WW2 era USN/USMC/USAAF |
Guest
#256 added June 16, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: John Hughes
City: Covington, WA
Age: 50-59
Military: None Myself. My father was in USN during WWII.
Comments: My father served as ARM2c in VP-63 (Catalina PBY 5A)
from about Jan 1942 - July 1944. Duty stations included San Deigo,
San Francisco, Jacksonville, Grand Caman, Iceland, Pemroke Dock,
England & Port Lyautey, Frenc Morroco. He received the Distinguished
Flying Cross (DFC) for his bravey in flight from 25 Jul 1943
- 15 December 1943. |
Guest
#255 added June 16, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Leo Caldeira
City: Pocasset, Ma
Age: 60-69
Military: USMC (HD) 58'-62'.
Comments: I am researching my late brother's military service
(he was 20 years my senior). He served in the US Navy from 1944
- 1946 and I believe he was attached to the PBY's (maybe FAW
9?) at Quonset Point NAS, RI. I continue to seek all info related
to Quonset Point NAS, especially the PBY branch on station there,
its status and activities during those WWII years. Plus, my general
interest in that specific and awesome plane, its history, the
courageous crews who flew them and its areas of global operations
during WWII. |
Guest
#254 added June 16, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Gary Swallow
City: Charlotte State: nc
Age: 50-59
Military: My father is Lt. Cmdr., Ret. George C. Swallow, age
89. He and my mother are still with me and we've only recently
talked about his experiences during the war.I'd like very much
to put together an informational and pictorial album when I visit
him this July for their 60th wedding anniversary. He is quintessential
"greatest generation" guy who did his duty, came home,
went to work as a teacher and raised three kids. He's not very
exacting about squadron numbers and the like, but I know he trained
at Squantum Air Base in Massachusetts, flew the two engine PBY's
in the pacific. He finished the war on Guam in the VR-10? squadron.
He was flying a specially equipped plane which had a million
candlepower searchlight on the wing tip and hunted barges and
supply vessels. He was training to support beach assaults on
Japan when the war ended. He chuckled when saying he had to fly
at roughly a 45 degree downward angle when firing his machine
guns or the plane would stall.
I'm just beginning to research the role of this plane and the
wonderful men who flew them and would like to hear from anyone
who can steer me in the right direction to research squadron
histories, aircraft specifics, etc.
I know he has much information from his training days including
crew pictures and the like. He is way old school and does not
have a computer.
Comments: Just from the above. It is a beautiful plane and my
dad spoke glowingly about his time in the pilot's seat. |
Guest
#253 added March 26, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: James Bennett
City: Bend, OR
Age: 40-49
Found: Search engine
Found More:
Military: Father James E. Bennett retired USN, Active 1942-1945
Reserves 1945-1965+/-
Comments: My father Lt. James E. Bennett flew P2V Neptunes on
west coast sub patrol from late 40's to mid 60's as USNR - Looking
for anyone who flew with him. I know he flew out of Alameda,
Whidby, Kodiak and other west coast locations |
Guest
#252 added March 25, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Rick Gilhousen
City: Anacortes, Wa,
Age: 50-59
Found: Knew about plane and just looked it up on the net
Military: None just in the draft for the time i was 18
to i believe 34 0r 36 I wanted to be in the sevice so bad but
I had a kidney opperation they fixed and put it back in but if
they let me in. I had to sign a waver that if i had any problem
with my kid that they would not give me any compensation so I
would have been dead in the water. So i talked to some uper brass
guys and they all told me i was crazy to inlist so upon their
advise I stayed out but every man in my family on the Gilhousen
side fought in just about every war from the first world war
to Korea. My grand father fought in the first and second world
war my father fought in the second world war and fought in seven
different major battles in the war he was at normond also I think
he said he was in the nave my dads name was Gail W. Gilhouse.
Comments: I'm interested in it just because I think it
is one of the most beautiful planes ever built and it still today
serves as a fire fifgter today. I believe canada got some from
us for forest fire fighting not sure but I saw a program on tv
and I think they said they bought several planes from the U.S.A.
and are using them for that . Thank you for this site it helps
full and a very nice tribute to this beautiful piece of workmen
ship. Rick Gilhousen |
Guest
#251 added March 25, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Richard Davidson
City: Houston, Texas
Age: 50-59
Comments: I am trying to find out what kind of plane my dad,
Robert N. Davidson,USMC was in when it crashed into the sea off
the coast of Santa Barbara Ca.. It could have been a PBY as I
see a reference to a similar crash (07/08/42 USMC plane crashed
in Prisoner's Bay between Santa Cruz Island and Santa Barbara.
It's five occupants were able to swim safely ashore). From what
I remember he was the only one hurt with a broken leg. My sister
has lost the newspaper clipping and I would like to know more.
I thought several planes had gone down that day due to fog so
this one listing could be misleading. Thanks, DIck Davidson |
Guest
#250 added March 25, 2010
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for contact information.
Tom Myrick
City: Colonial Heights, Virginia
Age: 50-59
Military: No military personally...my father in law was in VP-11
during WWII and was at Kaneohe when Pearl Harbor was attacked
Comments: My Father in law was in VP-11 and flew in PBYs during
the early days of WWII...he was at Pearl Harbor (Kaneohe) during
the attack and later flew in PBYs at Midway, Guadalcanal. He
is now 86 years old and is still active in veterans affairs. |
 Guest #249 added March 1, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Marshall Campell
Comment: My older cousin, Gene Marlin (not certain Gene is his
legal first name) was a PBY pilot flying in the Aleutians during
World War II. He is (was) married to a Jeannie Marlin and in
1949 had two sons. I have a picture of him in a fur llined flying
jacket. He told stories of flying over Soviet territory and that
they had fired on him. When my dad died in 1951 I lost track
of Gene and other oldler cousins who also served in the Pacific
during WW II ( Navy and Marines). I have tried with no success
to find if Gene is still alive and where he might be if he is.
Any information would be very much appreciated. |
Guest
#248 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Leo Petrosk
City: Ludington, Michigan
Age: 80-89
Military: nine years in pby three years south pacific squardon
vp 24
Comments: nostalgic memories, four years flying them |
Guest
#247 added March 1, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Dan Williams
City: Cohutta, Ga.
Age: 60-69
Military: USNR 1968-1971
Comments: My father, Mayford Freeman Williams ARM2 flew in Patrol
Bombing Squadron 71 from mid 1943 until the end of the war. He
was awarded the Navy Air Medal for meritorious service from April
2nd 1945 thru April 22 1945. I am trying to find any records
about the the squadrons activities during this time.My father
talked about the commanding office Gillette but unfortunatly
I do not remember the pilots name that dad flew with.
If anyone has any information concerning this time frame in the
squadrons history, I would love to hear from you. |
Guest
#246 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Bill Sweeney
City: Chesapeake, VA
Country: US
Age: 70-79
Military: USMCR
Comments: My oldest brother, Robert E. Sweeney, was an Aviation
Ordinance man in VP 73 during the years from 1942 to 1945. I
am interested in finding out if his name appears in any books. |
Guest
#245 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Peter Cole
City: Lawrence, MA
Age: 60-69
Military: CDR USNR (Ret) A-4 and F-8 driver on active duty '68-
'76. transitioned to rotary wing, H-3 in the reserves.
Comments: My father had two tours in the Aleutians during WWII
flying the PBY with VP-41 and VP-43. Retired CPO Bob Biddel gave
my Mother and me a special grand tour of the facilities just
before Christmas. I would like to thank him for that. My mother
really appreciated the exective treatment! Pete |
Guest
#244 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Martha Seeton-Magee
City: Durham, CT
Age: 50-59
Military: Grandfather, uncles, cousins: USN
Father: US Army
Comments: My grandfather, Doctor Corydon Wassell, left Calif.
aboard a ship (Coolidge?), immediately following Pearl Harbor.
Onboard were PBYs in crates, pilots, mechanics, etc. Just wondering
if anyone might have names of pilots, crew on board. The ship
docked in Australia. |
|
Guest #243 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Michael Young
City: Waukegan, Illinois
Age: 60-69
Military: Served 1960-1966 U.S.Navy Rm2c Nas Norfolk,Nob Norfolk,Uss
Lexington cva 16 last westpac tour,around the horn,Cuban missle
crisis and relief of uss antietam as training carrier.
Comments: My interest(lifelong)stems from my dad Leroy E.Young
Am2c U.S.N. aug 1941 to thru aug or sept of 1946 (all active)serving
with vp42 in the aluetians and later at Nas Jacksonville at the
end of the war which is one of my earliest memories,remembering
him in uniform. Also on the cover of the book "The Forgotten
War",the aircraft in the foreground,p3,shows my dad looking
out of the gun blister as they were flying over one the alaskan
glaciers. I still have one of the original photos from that group
shot.
In the middle sixties, I was fortunately
involved with my dad in converting a surplus Pby5a into a commercial
luxury aircraft for a chicago based steel corporation which met
it's demise some time later by hitting a log upon landing in
Waukegan Harbor. As I've said before it's been a lifelong love
affair with an airplane that's served so well in times of war
and peace and deserves it's special place in history...
|
Guest
#242 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
James S. Juliana
City: Littleton, CO
Found: PBY CIA Magazine
Military: None -High school teacher.
Comments: Published book; FLIGHT 5 VICTOR 2:A TRUE MYSTERY OF
WWII, ON LOSS OF UNCLE IN PBY, 13July42 out of Kaneohe NAS, Oahu.
Other uncle pilot of PBY's in Aleutians. Later instructor at
Whidbey Nas. Member: Kaneohe Klippers, PBYCIA. Looking for PBY
IN WHICH TO TAKE RIDE! |
Guest
#241 added March 1, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Emory Lindgard
City: Freeland, WA
Age: 60-69
Recommended by friend: Victor Seeley of Clinton
Military: NONE
Comments: Victor Seeley gave me Cardboard Box of PBY info that
he
has collected. |
Guest
#240 added March 1, 2010
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Marilyn Wells
City: Redding, CA
Military: Looking for records or information about my father-in-law,
Ebbie Dellmer Wells. He was a navig. on a PBY in the Korea war
and was lost on the last day of his tour in Aug. of 1952.
Comments: I'm trying to find out information about him for my
husband who was raound five years of age when he died. He was
born in 1910 Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you |
Guest
#239 added March 1, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: Diana Keyes
Location: Davis, CA
Age: 60-69
Military: My father was the radio operator on a PBY.
Comments: I am interested in learning about the crew of PBY 3694.
My father, the radio operator, is now 91 years old. I am wondering
if any of his crew members are still alive: Horace Lacour, Dr.
Larry Johnson, Dewey Mearns, David Dean and ___ O'Daniel. |
Guest
#238 added March 1, 2010
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for contact information.
Name: W. W. Fielder
Location: Moreno Valley, CA
Age: 80-89
Military: I was part of a Black Cat crew based on Green Island
in World War II.
Comments: I love the pictures. I wish there was a way to contact
someone who was on Green Island at that time. There was a special
on the Military Channel yesterday about the PBYs. |
Guest
#237 added December 8, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Richard G. Wells
Location: Mt. Morris, MI
Military: I was a Combat Aircrewman and Aerial Photographer with
many hours on the PBY 5. I had alot of "stick time"
on them, too. Many at night.
Comments: I loved flying those old beauties at NAS Memphis. As
a author, I use photos of them in my books.
Website: ameritech.net/users/bwana/mainpage.html |
Guest
#236 added December 2, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Joy Wells-Padden
Location: Chico, CA
Comments: I am trying to locate a pby plane that was missing
in action August 1952. My grand father,Ebbie Dellmer Wells was
a navigator during WWII. All that my family knows is that he
was flying near Korea. He was a navel officer in the US Navy.
I would just like to know if there is any information that you
might have of the name of the plane or more information regarding
my grandfather. Thank you for relaying any information you may
have regarding the plane or my grandfather. |
|
Guest #235 added December 2, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: W. Brough Dorny
Location: Gilbert. Arizona
Age: 60-69
Military: US Army 1968 to 1993 retired.
Comments: A wonderful site of historical value to everyone. I
enjoyed the photos and the flyin Sept 2009 especially. My interest
in PBY's is from association with my brother Louis B. Dorny USN
Ret of Seattle and his studies of the plane and Patrol Wing 10
in the Pacific. I find something of PBY interest as I search
and tell him of it. I hope someday to come to the Northwest and
see the island base there.
Warm regards for your continued success.
Thanks for making my searching rewarding.
|
Guest
#234 added November 6, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Robert D Aul
Location: Pittsburgh, PA.
Age: 50-59
Military: U.S.Navy Aviation Structrual Mech. 1976/1980 World
Famous Joly Rogers V.F.-84 F-14 Sqdn. onboard U.S.S.Nimitz 77/80
U.S. Army Res. 90/91 14th. Quarter Master Det. Greensburg Pa.
Comments: My father Robert W. Aul A.M.M.-2 Was at Pearl HarborDec.
7 1941 Served with V.P. 11 and or V.P. 43 hE was a flight engineer,engine
mech. I have many stories he related to me . Many involving Soloman
isles. Newhebredies S. pacific. |
Guest
#233 added November 6, 2009
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for contact information.
Name: Clayton Curtis
Location: Salt Lake City,Utah
Age: 80-89
Military: U S Army Air Force P-38 photo-recon pilot secretly
assigned to Yamamoto Shootdown Mission. Shot down 18 April 1943
and ditched on Green Island (see PBY info below)
Comments: Rescued about 26 May 26 1943, by PBY after P-38 ditched
in lagoon on Green Island / Nissan Island on 18 April 1943. Would
love to know if any rescuer has information about rescue. |
Guest
#232 added November 6, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Marsh Campbell
Location: Prescott, AZ
Age: 70-79
Military: US Army Reserve, 1961-68
Comments: I am trying to locate my cousin, if still alive, Gene
Marlin who flew PBY's in the Aluetians during WW II. After WW
II he flew contarcts for the Nany out of Arcida CA
Comments: My older cousin, Gene Marlin (not certain Gene is his
legal first name) was a PBY pilot flying in the Aleutians during
World War II. He is (was) married to a Jeannie Marlin and in
1949 had two sons. I have a picture of him in a fur llined flying
jacket. He told stories of flying over Soviet territory and that
they had fired on him. When my dad died in 1951 I lost track
of Gene and other oldler cousins who also served in the Pacific
during WW II ( Navy and Marines). I have tried with no success
to find if Gene is still alive and where he might be if he is.
Any suggestions as to how I might find out about him and where
he or his family might be today? |
Guest
#231 added November 6, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Ralph Wiley
Location: Medford, Oregon
Age: 50-59
Military: none
Comments: Son of aviation Machinist Mate, Raymond G. Wiley who
flew in one of the Black Cat Squadrons in the Pacific Islands
during the war. I am trying to find out which sqadron it was
and any info about it. Dad is gone now and I need to learn more
about his Navy and war life that I do not know about. I know
very little as he did not talk about it except for some of the
fun stuff. The main thing I do know is that a sister sqadron
painted a PINK whale on the side of their plane and named them
the WHALE KILLERS |
|
Guest #230 added October 19, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Martin Cerrone
Location: Norwalk, Ct
Age: 50-59
Military: Only the admiration for the heroes that put everything
on the line then and now so that we all are able to live in the
greatest country in the world.
Comments: My father flew out of Brazil 1941-1944. VP 45. His
Aircraft was flown from Virginia to Pensacola Fla. to be put
on display in the Navy Air Museum. ( I think that was in 1944).
The names he recalls are Capt. Chuck Schwarz, Lt. Barrett and
Ens. Madden.
If I had a single wish, it would be to
get up in a vintage PBY with my dad and brother.
|
|
Guest #229 added October 12, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Len Smallwood
Email: LSMALLWOOD6@satx.rr.com
Location: San Antonio, TX
Age: 60-69
Military: Sole surviving son of a deceased veteran. Classified
4A. My mom lost her brother of the Franklin in April 45 and her
husband (My Dad) in August 45. I was born in early September,
She went into labor the day she got the telegram. She didn't
want me to serve so I didn't.
Comments: I understand my father Lt.jg Leonard F. (Chip) Smallwood
flew the Catalina in the movie Wake Island. I have been unable
to verify this. I have an Officer Qualification Report showing
flight hours for the previous two years, dated 2-45 that shows
120 hours in PBY's and 860 hours in PV-1 & 2's. He was in
VB/VPB-144 in 44 & 45 flying the PV's.
Any one with info about him or the Cat
in the movie will be appreciated.
|
Guest
#228 added October 12, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Michael Morrison
Location: Shirley, N.Y.
Age: 30-39
Military: USMC and Army
Comments: My grandfather was a tailgunner and I would like to
know if anyone
knew him. His name was Steve Morrison and he was on the Four
Roses.
Thank You all for your service.
Mike Morrison |
Guest
#227 added October 12, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: J.E. Haley
Location: HARBOR CITY, CA
Age: 70-79
Military: NONE
Comments: I AM SEARCHING FOR INFO ON NAVY TRAINER CRASH OFF LOS
ALAMITOS, CA IN NOV/DEC, 1959. MY BROTHER-IN-LAW, HAROLD GRIMSLEY,
WAS KILLED AND WAS ONLY PERSON THEY DID NOT FIND. |
Guest
#226 added October 1, 2009
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for contact information.
Name: William E. Westlake
Location: Seattle, Wa
Age: 60-69
Military: US Coast Guard Retired 1961 to 1981. Subsistence Specialist
1st Class (Cook) Stationed in Sitka Alaska befor I retired and
Visited Kodiak
Comments: My Dad was stationed in Patrol Squadron 17. I know
at least Sitka and was told he was in Kodiak also. Actually saw
one leave the runway at Metlakatla Alaska on my way to Cordova
Alaska |
Guest
#225 added August 25, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Kurt Feil
Location: Oak Harbor, WA
Age: 20-29
Military: Active Duty
Comments: I just visited the exhibits last weekend at the Seaplane
base, and I thouroughly enjoyed my time there. From the old Canteem
up front to the Sim in the back, I was interested all along the
way. Outstanding experience, thanks in particular to Bruce, who
guided me along as I went through the exhibits |
Guest
#224 added August 13, 2009
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for contact information.
Name: Glenn Ray Spear
Location: Munford AL.
Age: 60-69
Military: Retired U.S. Army National Guard SFC served fist gulf
war Desert Shield/Desert Storm attached to the 18th airborne.
23 years total military service
Comments: My father George Lorne Spear, USN, Aviation Chief Radioman
patrol squadron 34 PBY-5 seaplane part of the Black Cat Squadron
official records of the Navy Dept. In the status of missing in
action as of 10 Jan. 1944 Patrol Squadron 34, took off from New
Guina on a night patrol mission over the southwest coast of New
Ireland and failed to return. |
Guest
#223 added August 13, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Gina Yarbrough
Location: Odessa TX
Age: 60-69
Military: father-in-law was a naval pilot (ensign) during WWII
and Korea
Comments: My father-in-law, a naval pilot, flew the PBY during
WWII. He often tells a story of attempting to rescue a downed
plane in the Pacific during a hurricane. On the plane was a general
on his way to sign the peace treaty. The general was not rescued,
but one crewman was. My father-in-law's plane was destroyed in
the rescue attempt, an SOS was sent out, and a merchant ship
rescued the PBY crew and the other man. I can find no mention
of this event on any website. Can anyone help? |
Guest
#222 added July 23, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Thomas Lynch
Location: Plains, Pa
Age: 60-69
Found: Browsing the web
Found More:
Military: USMC 1966-1969 0311 Rifleman
USAFR Retired
Comments: Researching LT Howard Wagenhals USMC. A WW11
Marine Pilot.
He flew PBY aircraft. Would like to know what WW11 Marine
Corps squadron flew the PBY. |
Guest
#221 added May 28, 2009
Name: Fred Nicolau
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Location: Natal, RN
Country: Brazil
Age: 40-49
Found: Recommended by friend
Military: I wish
Comments: I belong to The Rampa Foundation, from Natal,
Brazil. I would like to hear from people related to the veterans
that fought WW2 in Brazil, Natal particulary, but any other city
ok too. www.fundacaorampa.com.br |
Guest
#220 added April 22, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Mike Allegre
Location: Keizer, OR
Military: Maj (ret) USAF
PBY Interest: Like so many Baby Boomers, I didn't learn
from my dad exactly what unit he served with during WWII. I know
he was an aircraft machinest mate to a Naval air unit at Hickham.
He served/flew as a crew chief in PBYs (3, 4, 5?) and also worked
and flew on C-47s. I have his DD-214 equivalent, but am unable
to tell what unit he was assigned to while at Hickham from mid-1944
to war's end.
-----Is
there a resource where I can try and locate this info by looking
at units assigned at Hickham?
-----Thank
you for this website and the memorial at Whidbey. As a retired
USAF officer, I have a great interest in most military aircraft,
especially WWII planes. I must visit soon. |
Guest
#219 added April 14, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Jeannine Melton
Location: Bainbridge, GA
Age: 50-59
Military:
Pby Interest: |
Guest
#218 added April 9, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Judy Keenan Maher
Location: Ramsey, NJ
Age: 60-69
Military: Daughter of deceased Navy veteran
Pby Interest: I am trying to find information about a
plane crash my father, Joseph Daniel Keenan, was in on Feb. 18,
1945 in the South Pacific probably off Guadalcanal. He was in
VJ-13 at the time. He told us that the pilot was killed and the
others survived. There is no mention of it in VJ-13's cruisebook.
I have in my possession the telegram informing my grandparents
of the crash. He flew in a PBY. |
Guest #217 added April 9, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Ronald T. Moran
 Location: Ruther Glen, Va
Age: 50-59
Military: My father, AOC Raymond T. Moran (deceased) was
in VP21 and 102 and I just received the Bronze Star for him last
Friday. He was also in VP62 and flew in the Aleutians after he
got back here from Perth.
Pby Interest: Hello out there all you sailors. I'm looking
for anyone that may have flown with my Dad. He was in from 1935
to 1955. He was on the Langley, the Yorktown and the Lake Champlaign
also. Please drop me an e-mail. Thanks, Ron |
Guest
#216 added March 31, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Dwight Smith
Location: Ingalls, IN
Age: 80-89
Military: US army 1947-1954
Pby Interest: My friend Mr EICHER, served with VP42 at
Whidby and Iwakuni in 1964-1964. He seeks to contact Lt Cmdr
Papas, or any other veterans from VP42 in 64-65. We would be
delighted to hear from you |
|
Guest #215 added March 28, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Larry Seth Steinberg
Location: Silver City, NV
Age: 60-69
Military:
Pby Interest: Two members of an experimental B-25 survived
a ditching off Buka Is on 17Feb44. One was my Father SSgt Lester
Steinberg (13thAAF, 42ndBG, 69thBS). Rescued by a dumbo at sea,
he was given a Hawaiian overstamped $1 bill; it has, in faded
ink, "Royal Order of Drips Lester A Steinberg... At sea,
Feb. 18, 1944... off Buka Is" It is very hard to read the
names of the USN crew... perhaps.. James S. Mattof, Patrick Watts,
Robert E. ____ USN, Wm Carlisle O-808101, David Kellman, Warren
Johnson, P Reed, Thos J Price, William S Pure, Bill Cook.
I always thought the number sequence was
an officer's serial #... BUT now believe it refers to Navy BuNo
#08101, assigned to PBY construction No. 920 (Later US civil
N5588V). Can anyone confirm her flying with VP-33 or VP-34? LtJG
Nathan Gordon won his Medal of Honor that week flying from stationing
at Vitu Is to Kavieng Harbor with BuNo #08139... "Arkansas
Traveler" of VP-34. ... Any response or data appreciated.
|
|
 Guest
#214 added March 18, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Pete Sloman
From: Pasadena, CA
Age: 50-59
Military: US Navy '71-'75; CTI3 (Vietnamese, Hanoi dialect);
DLIEC 5/71-4/72; NSA 10/72-12/73; NAVCOMSTAPHIL San Miguel, 1/74-1/75;
USS Chicago (CG-11) summer '74.
Pby Interest: My brother Chris posted a photo of our Dad's
crew at Dutch Harbor (see photos page
-crews -Aleutians). Dad told us that after a particularly
harrowing semi-crash landing, they managed to patch up the plane
with materials on board, thanks to very helpful drawings in the
"owner's manual". After he got home he told his mother
about it; she went upstairs, came back with a roll of blueprints.
"You mean these?" She was an industrial draftsman at
Consolidated and had done the drawings.
She was a beautiful plane; just birdlike
enough to avoid looking like a flying brick.
|
|
Guest #213 added March 9, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Dennis May
From:
Age:
Military:
 Pby
Interest: Unfortunately, my father, Roy May from Indiana,
died when I was 13, before I had any thought to ask him about
his photographs or his experience during the War. I only know
from his separation papers that he enlisted 10/27/42 (when he
was 33 years old) and his date of separation was 11/23/45. I
think he was with the Squadron HEDRON FAW 12 at Key West from
early after his enlistment to about the end of 1944 when he then
was on the USS Alcor in the Pacific.
I don't suppose there is much chance anyone
would recognize my father in the photograph and be able to share
any memories of him, but just in case, my father is in the second
photo, the one where there are three kneeling and four standing
behind them. My father one of the four standing, the one on the
far left. (see photos page -crews-Hedron-FAW12)
Aside from specific memories of my father, I would appreciate
hearing any description of the nature of the operations of these
planes which I understand were hunting submarines.
|
|
Guest #212 added March 6, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: George R. Thenn, Jr.
From: Alameda, CA
Age: 90-99
Military: MAJ, AUS-Ret, Corps of Engineers, United States
Army; active duty: SWPA, 1944-46, "All the say back, with
'Mac,'"
1897th Engineer Aviation Battalion, 6-airstrips.
Pby Interest: My first post-high shool job in 1937 was
as a "Sheet Metal
Helper," with Consolidated Aircraft, Lindberg Field, San
Diego, California. The "X-Models" for the PBY had been
accepted by the Navy, and for the B-24, by the Army Air Corps.
I participated in the manufacture of the
first 13-plane squadrons for each model. Since there were only
the initial, 13-plane orders, Consolidated did not "tool-up"
and did not use mass-producing drop-hammers and steel dies; all
sheet metal was initially formed on wooden forms, heaat-treated
and re-formed--WWII changed all of this, which I was able to
see, personally, when I returned for a summer's work, after my
Freshman Year at the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas.
The incessant noise of many drop-hammers would be a reminder
me later in the war.
|
Guest
#211 added February 27, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Tim Newell
From: Waynesboro, MS
Age:
Military: I am a US Marine sniper.
Pby Interest: My Dad, Capt. Dale S. Newell, flew the PBY
with VP24 during WWII in the Pacific. Later with VP 41 in Alaska.
Later flew the PB4Y out of NAS Atlanta. Retired in Oct. 1961.
I'm searching for info on my Dad. I am fairly familiar with the
PBY and it's history. Searching for Dad's WWII PBY info. |
Guest
#210 added February 27, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Mitch Carlson
From:
Age:
Military:
Pby Interest: I'm looking for information about PBY Squadrons
operating out of Brazil in WW2 (could've been only one of two,
actually, depending on dates). My late father, Jack A. Carlson,
LT, USNR, was a pilot with the Natal, Brazil-based unit from
'43 (?) to '45 (?). He was a quiet man, not prone to tooting
his own horn, so I have little information on him other than
the above. |
Guest
#209 added February 26, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Leonard Miller
From: Springdale, Arkansas
Age: 80-89
Military: Staff Sgt. in the 13th Air Force in the 2nd
rescue group of Air Sea & Rescue WW2 June 1943-January 1946
Pby Interest: I was a radio control gunner in the PBY
5a Catalina |
Guest
#208 added February 19, 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Susan Wantuck
From: Sharpsburg GA
Age: 50-59
Military:
Pby Interest: Husband is retired Army |
Guest
#207 added February 13 , 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: Sandy Van Fossen
From: Lakewood, WA
Age: 40-49
Military: none
Pby Interest: I am searching for information on my uncle
shot down over Guadal Canal. My information is vague because
my mother passed and I have very little info to go on. His name
was Herman Sauter. |
Guest
#206 added February 13 , 2009
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
Name: William c. Praegner
From: Sultan, WA
Age: 60-69
Military: none "damm it"
Pby Interest: My dad John Griffith Praegner was a radio
man on a pby during WWII. He flew of Brazil looking for U boats.
Want to find out infromation about his squadron and his record
if I can. |
Guest
#205 added February 13 , 2009
Name: John Sandiford
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
From: Woburn, MA
Age: 50-59
Military: Served in Alaska Air National Guard
Pby Interest: My Father Flew he PBY 5A He wa the MAchini
Mate First Class. They sank a destroyer with it, lost one crewman.
All got the DFC. I am looking for that story/citation. |
Guest
#204 added January 25 , 2009
Name: Dayna Sluder
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
From: Meridian, Indiana
Age: 40-49
Military:
Pby Interest: I located this website while searching for
information regarding a PBY-5A that went missing in 1943 out
of Pensicola. Would love to talk to someone who has any information
regarding the anti-sub patrol during this time. Thanks |
Guest
#203 added January 25, 2009
Name: Jim Lemons
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
From: Omaha, Nebraska
Age: 80-89
Military: Seaman first class, AOM, Aircrewman (NATTC,
Millington, Tenn.)Flew in VP 91 1944 -1945
Pby Interest: Visited NAS Whidbey on Vacation. Would like
to hear from any of the crews at NAS Whidby during my time there.
My plane captain was Lt. Cmdr. Corboy. I was station there when
one of the other pilots flew there crew under the Deception Pass
Bridge. |
Guest
#202 added January 25, 2009
Name: Donald Hoover
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
From: Rome City, Indiana
Age: 70-79
Military: US Navy 04/1951 to 10/1970 Changed rate from
AD to At Retired as ATCS
Pby Interest: I flew as flight mech on two of the PBY's
located at Air Ops, Sangley Point P.I. 1952 to 1954. Flew between
Clark AFB, Subic Bay and Sangley Pt., One trip to Palawan Lepper
Colony with a Catholic priest who was working with the Leppers.
I remember the Glass sight gauges for the fuel level, the mixture
controls, the crank for the wing floats just in case the electrical
system failed and the rid in the bubbles was fantistic. The APU
was pretty noisy though and making a bouy could be a trick. Loved
it!!! great memories. |
Guest
#201 added January 25, 2009
Name: Phil Quirk
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
From: Pawnee, OK
Age: 40-49
Military:
Pby Interest: My father, LT. (jg) Robert James Quirk,
from Chicago Illinbois served in WW11 as Navy pilot, was in Ottumwa
Iowa, Quajalane, looking for anyone who may remember him. He
passed away when i was 11 years old (1971)and did not get to
ask questions about his service years. He was a CHP officer in
Calif. |
Guest
#200 added January 4, 2009
Name: William Schultz
Email: contact webmaster
for contact information.
From: Grand Prarie
Texas
Age:
Found: search engine
Military: Served on Cold Bay Alaska for ten months then
shipped out to Amchitka Island, arriving there the Day after
the Japanese bombed the airfield there.We served under General
Simon Boliver Buckner of the A.D.C. My Outfit was the "203rd
Coast RTILLry Anti Aircraft" Battalion.
Pby Interest: Approxamently two or three weeks ago you
showed a film of this engagement with Japanese. I am writing
this note to inquire how I may acquire a copy Of that engagement |
page 1, 2,
3, 4, 5
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