PBY Memorial Foundation
Guest Book

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Guest #191 added July 18, 2008 Name: Jerry, Nancy Lorigan Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Fremont, CA Age: 70-79 Found: search engine Military: Army Pby Interest: Friend's interest and conversation

Guest #190 added July 2, 2008 Name: Jason B Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Mesa AZ Age: 30-39 Found: Link from another site Military: Current NFO in the local P-3 reserve squadron. Pby Interest: I have been interested in the PBY since I was a kid. When I was stationed in Pensacola I remember the seaplane ramp next to the McDonalds and tried to imagine what it would have been like to fly a seaplane. Everytime I go to the exchange at Whidbey I always take time to go look at the seaplane ramp. Good luck with the project, I would love to see a restored PBY back on the ramp!!

Guest #189 added June 19, 2008 Name: Mitch McKay Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Port Macquarie, NSW Australia Age: 50-59 Pby Interest: I am doing research a Catalina that flew Bob Hope around the Pacific on his tour during 1944. This plane crash landed at Laurieton in Australia with no passengers or crew injured. Records show that the pilots name was Ferguson. Any information would be greatly appreciated

Guest #188 added May 9, 2008 Name: Betty Swanson Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Alma, Nebraska Age: 40-49 Military: Pby Interest: I am the youngest daughter of Am2c(AB) Louis M. Feigt, who was on the First Roster of the Black Cats in Guadalcanal. He was very proud to be in that squardron, so am I. Knowing my Dad and his way of perfection, I also remember him telling me something about the painting, so I am betting it was him that did the painting. He would tell me about all kinds of things about the Black Cats. He passed away in 1988.

Guest #187 added May 9, 2008 Name: Robert J. Stagg Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Annadale, New Jersey Age: 50-59 Military: Pby Interest: My father J. C. Stagg flew in them during ww2 floyd bennett field ,Long Island N. Y. - the rock of Gilbraltra do not know much he never talked about it - very little any info would be greatly appreciated

Guest #186 added May 9, 2008 Name: John Penisten Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Hilo, Hawaii Age: 60-69 Military: Pby Interest: I live on Big Island of Hawaii. I took photos of a PBY Catalina in mid-1980s at the Hilo Airport. The PBY was parked there enroute to mainland US. The ID # N68740 was on the tail of the plane. I was just wondering whatever happened to that PBY and if it is still flying or what? Can anyone give me ideas/leads on how/where to trace it? Thank you.

Guest #185 added April 28, 2008 Name: Vincent Pecoraro Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Ann Arbor, MI Age: 50-59 Military: Pby Interest: My uncle, Edward Fragnito, was an ARM2-C in VP-43 during WWII. He was stationed in Attu for at least six months beginning in Oct. 42. His captain was Al Lorenger. They were involved in the bombing raid of Paramishiro. He is wondering if there are any fellow crew mates who may be associated with this group or if there is general information he might be able to get about the airmen of those days.

Guest #184 added April 28, 2008 Name: Art Fernandez (Del Rey) Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Arcadia, CA Age: 80-89 Military: I was a first class petty officer AOAB. I flew in a PBY-5A squadron VPB-23. I was on Saipan, Peleliu, Guam and Ulithi and Eniwetok. We flew reconnsiance around Iwo Jawa prior to invasion. I was in the service from 1943-1945.

Guest #183 added April 5, 2008 Name: Patti Villegas Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Redding, CA Age: 40-49 Military: My father Woodward Otho Mckinley was a aviation machinist mate 2nd class v6-s. Served 9-13-43 to 12-23-45.His discharge papers say patrol bombing sqd#53 #62 and Hedron FAW #6. I have a picture of him in front of his PBY 5-A with his crew.Second pilot Robinson; First pilot Donald Nellis; navigator Osborne;1st radioman Pat Trowbridge; aviation machinestmate Noll; 2nd radioman Sam Garrone;ordinanceman Frank Magri. He mentioned serving in the Aelution Islands, Whidby Island the Philipines, Somoa. If anyone new any of these guys or my father would love to here from you!!! Pby Interest: my father talked so little about his time in the service but I found a poem he wrote to my mother during that period and it filled me with pride. Thanks to all who served and are serving.

Guest #182 added April 5, 2008 Name: Dwight Hewett Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Key Biscayne, FL Age: 40-49 Military: Pby Interest: My father, William (Willy) A. Hewett was a pilot of a PBY. He trained in Pensacola and was based for a time in Alaska. I would like to make contact with anyone who may have served with him.

Guest #181 added March 31, 2008 Name: Susan Meisch Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Arlington, WA Age group: 50-59 Military Background: Raised in a Navy Family ~ Glenview NAS, IL

Guest #180 added March 10, 2008 Name: Cecil Lyons III Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: PORT SAINT JOE, FL Age group: 40-49 Military Background: Comments:  My grandfather, Cecil Lyons Sr. was a crewmember on a PBY during the war. He was stationed on Pearl Harbor and many other islands in the Pacific. I would love to hear from anyone who may have served with him. He is deceased now but left me some of his log books and some pictures of his service. Added March 17, 2008: I have more info on my grandfather. He was a Aviation Machinist Mate First Class. I know from his log books that he was in Pensacola in 1941-1943 then he was shiped to the Pacific on the ship WestPoint sometime in 1944. He was stationed at Pearl and a few other islands in late 44 and 45. The pictures we have show him standing in front of a black PBY which probably puts him in a Black Cat group. We can't find any unit identification. If anyone served with him I would love to get more info. Thanks.

Guest #179 added March 7, 2008 Name: Scott A. Fitzpatrick Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Roanoke, VA Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Linked form another site. Military Background: US Navy Aircrewman SH-2F/HH-2D and SH-60F/HH-60D. Comments:  My Dad was assigned to an Army Air Force Emergency Rescue Squadron in Okinawa and flew the SB-17G and OA-10A.

Guest #178 added March 5, 2008 Name: James Sumpter Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Boswell, Indiana Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: Browsing the internet Military Background: U.S. Army Comments:  I watched a program on the history channel some time ago & Capt. William [Wild Bill] Sumpter's name was mentioned. He was a PBY Black Cat pilot. My quest is know information about him, place of birth, death. relatives. I and my cousins are into our family's tree. Any information would be welcomed

Guest #177 added February 25, 2008 Name: David B. Relyea Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Portland, OR Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: Browsing the internet Military Background: : P5M-2 Martin Seaplane Sqd VP-47, AT-2 crew 6 1957-59. Stationed at Alameda NAS, Calif' Iwakuni, Japan. Joined VP-892 P2v7f, Sand Point NAS' WA Comments:  I've always enjoyed seaplanes and after seeing ( South Pacific ) I was determined to try getting into a VP squadron. I enjoyed my tour and was proud to wear the uniform!

Guest #176 added February 16, 2008 Name: Jerry Rodriguez Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Houston, TX Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: searching for old Naval-Air buddy, came across his name, Robert Aul, on this site Military Background: U.S. Navy 1976-1980 USS Nimitz VF-84 Jolly Rogers Comments:  Great site love seeing military personel staying together. The military was a small portion of my life, but a big memory

Guest #175 added February 5, 2008 Name: Kathy Rogers Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Milltown, Indiana Age group: 50-59 Military Background: Comments:   I'm writing on behalf of my Dad, Cort Jerome Rogers. He was a PBY pilot in WWII, trained at Pensacola, flew in a Utility Squadron at Kaneohoe Bay, Hawaii, and then went to Espiritu Santo in the South Pacific. He returned stateside and was finally stationed at Terminal Island in Southern California, where he was promoted to the Detached Squadron's Executive Officer (Utility Squadron 12 "A"). Would love to hear from anyone who knew him.

Guest #174 added February 4, 2008 Name: James Southern Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Chatt, TN Age group: 80-89 Military Background: Naval Air Corp 1944-1946 AMM/3 Comments:   enjoyed working and flying in the cat

Guest #173 added January 21, 2008 Name: Carl Mehlenbeck Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: United States Age group: Military Background: USAF 19620966 Comments:   My uncle, Carl F. Mehlenbeck was waist gunner on a PBY, I believe, based at Clark Field, but I don't know for sure. I also think they may have ditched once or twice Becuase he said the small U.S. flag they all carried saved his life a couple of times. I have that, and also a patch from his suqaron VPB 119 Dragon Squadron. Any other information anyone could send would be greatly appreciated

Guest #172 added January 14, 2008 Name: Ragnar J. Ragnarsson Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Reykjavik Iceland Age group: 60-69 Military Background: Comments:    I am the author of "US Navy PBY Catalina Units of WW.II [Osprey Publications]. Presently I'm working on another book that will include individual service histories for every PBY variant built, and would welcome hearing from anyone that who served on PBYs, Catalinas, Cansos, OA00s, etc.

Guest #171 added January 13, 2008 Name: Rodney Nelson Baker Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Indian Rocks Beach, FL Age group: 40-49 Military Background: Comments: Dad was on the crew of a PBY that was trained in San Diego and stationed in the Aleutian Islands. His name was Russ Baker and he went on to a career in aerospace manufacturing.

Guest #170 added January 13, 2008 Name: Robert D. Aul Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Pittsburgh, PA Age group: 40-49 Military Background: Comments: I am the author of "US Navy PBY Catalina Units of WW.II [Osprey Publications]. Presently I'm working on another book that will include individual service histories for every PBY variant built, and would welcome hearing from anyone that who served on PBYs, Catalinas, Cansos, OA00s, etc.

Guest #169 added January 11, 2008 Name: Lynn Voss Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Louisburg, KS Age group: 50-59 Military Background: US Navy 1969 - 1973, Naval Security Group Comments: My Father, Deward "Duke" Voss served with VP24 during WW2. Dad died in 1993. This Christmas I was at my Mothers after her move and we found an old trunk of my Dads. It is full of pictures from his time during the war. There are numerous pictures of different crews, some men are named, others are not. Also, we found Dad's old flight log. Also of note, is a picture of a gentleman painting the Black Cat logo. If someone is interested, I may be able to scan the pictures for your use.

Guest #168 added January 5, 2008 Name: Bill Sweeney Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Chesapeake, VA Age group: 70-79 Military Background: USMCR, ACTIVATED DURING KOREAN WAR. Comments: Oldest brother, Robert E. Sweeney, was an Aviation Ordinanceman, and a CPO on a Catalina. He was assigned to a squadron that was working out of North Africa during the period 19430945. He later returned to the Floyd Bennett airfield in Brooklyn, N.Y. He was a resident of Brooklyn before and after the war. I wonder if someone can tell me the Unit's number.

Guest #167 added January 2, 2008 Name: Lee Truan Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: San Jose, CA Age group: 70-79 Military Background: U.S.Navy 19510954 Comments: Was stationed at Sangley Point Phillipines 19510953.was flight engineer on BY-6A I had lot of interesting flights on her and many trips to Subic Bay and Clark Air Base.often wondered what happened to the old bird.

Guest #166 added December 28, 2007 Name: Bob, Ron, Jack, Susie and Sara Frame Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Toccoa, GA Age group: 50-59 Military Background: My dad flew a PBY ("The Angler")during WW11 in the Pacific. Comments: We have always known about the plane (PBY) that Dad flew during the war and had a general sense of what it's role was (air-sea rescue). I guess we always thought that flying a fighter or bomber would have been more glamorous, but after reading a crew member of Dad's account of one of their rescues, we all developed an immense sense of respect for the courage these "kids" had. We can get a copy of the rescue account (it is chilling to read) and also have a really cool picture of his plane (The Angler) while is flight over the Pacific while Dad was piloting it- it's very neat.

Guest #165 added December 28, 2007 Name: Marcel Dujardin Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Belgium Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: I'm searching info about 5ERS because I'm collector of USAAF jacket and equipment military_background: Military Background: Comments: i was into Belgian Navy and already interested by emergency rescue squadron because it was a good way to join my work and my passion (USAAF). I enjoy really that plane and the crew for what they done during the war. If someone (collector or veteran of ERS) have good link and or photo, don't hesitate. I wish to paint an M445 jacket as an original one. Preserve all airplane of the past is important. no one to forget all those men who serve and die for our freedom. God bless America.and God bless all American Veterans of all conflicts.

Guest #164 added December 28th, 2007 Name: JAMES A.WALLS Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Killeen, Tx Age group: 80-89 Military Background: US NAVY WW01 1942 TO 1946,US ARMY 1948 TO 196,9 RESERVES 1969 TO 1978 WW01 PACIFIC KANOEH HAWAII -NEW CALEDONIA - NEW HEBRIDES - SANTA CRUZE - GUADALCANAL - FLORIDA ISLAND - SUVA ISLAND - ADMIRALITIES - NEW GUNIE - SAN DIEGO - BOOT CAMP 42-332 JUNE 1942 BREMERTON WASH - USS MUNDA CVE004 USS COHAHEE CVE 13 MATISON LINER TO THE STATES NOV,1943 - ASSTORIA ORG. - SEASIDE ORG - BROWN FIELD CALIF - CAMP ELIOT CALIF - CAMP WALLACE,TEXAS - KOREA 2 TOURS - GERMANY 2,TOURS - ELPASO -FORT BLISS - SANDIS BASE NM - CAMP HANFORD WASH - FORT CAMPBELL, KY - FORT MEAD MD - FORT HOOD ,TEXAS - VP 11 AND VP 44 CASU 66 CASU -5 FORT SAM HOUSTON TEXAS FORT - STEWART GA. Comments: A TOTAL OF 34 YEARS OF SERVICE. I WAS INJURED WHILE REMOVING THE LAND ING GEAR OF A PBY IN THE BEACH CREW AT ESPIRTU SANTO NEW HEBERIEDS EARLY 1943. I WAS AGAIN INJURED SAM LEG AND ANKLE AT FORT CAMPBELL, KY 1961 AND AGAIN SAME ANKLE AND ANKLE AT HENRY KASERN MUNICH GERMANY 1963 , I WAS WITH THE 11th ARTY C BTY FT CAMPBELL,KY AND THE 3rd BN 19th INF HENRY KARSEN, GERMANY MUNICH THE SAME ANKLE HAS BEEN INJURED MANY TIMES IN BETWEEN BUT THE VETERANS ADM SAYS IT IS NOT SERVICE CONNECTED. I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY ONE WHO KNOWS ANY THING ABOUT THE PBYS AND THE BEACH CREWS THANKS TO ALL YOU GUYS. I WAS 15 WHEN I JOINED AND THE 29th DEC 2007, THIS MONTH, WILL BE 81. I WAS ALWAYS PROUD OF THE PLANES AND THE MEN WHO FLEW IN THEM AND MY HEART HAS ALWAYS BEEN NAVY EVEN THOUGH I SPENT MOST OF MY LIFE IN THE ARMY BEFORE I RETIRED. I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY ONE WHO SERVED IN VP 11,VP 44,AND PATSU0-6 1943 OR ANY OTHER SQUADRONS. I ALSO WAS AT NEW CALDONIA I ROAD THE SEA PLANE TENDER TO GUADLCANAL. I ALSO WAS ON THE USS MACKINAC AT THE SANTA CRUZE ,VANKORA.

Guest #163 added October 15th, 2007 Name: Jennifer Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: FUNAFUTI, FUNAFUTI TUVALU Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: SURFING THROUGH THE NET Military Background: None Comments: LIKE EVERYONE ELSE I AM TRYING TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MY GRANDFATHER. HE WAS A MARINE NAVY ON FUNAFUTI,TUVALU.I HAVE LITTLE INFORMATION ABOUT HIM. HE WAS KNOWN AS 'BILL' OR NICKNAME 'BILL'DURING HIS STAYING HERE, MAYBE FROM 1940 - 1945. HE HAD A SON AND WILL TURN OUT 64 IN DECEMBER 2007. ANYONE WHO HAVE INFORMATION REGARDING MY SEACH, PLEASE DO INFORM ME AT MY EMAIL ADDRESS

Guest #162 added October 3rd, 2007 Name: Sherrie Jones Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Lubbock, TX U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Internet search Military Background: None Comments: My dad was a pilot navigator on PBY Squadron VPB 53. He passed away on Sept. 18th, 2007. We wanted to research this while he was still living, but his illness did not allow us. His plane was dubbed the "Wowwy Boid" missions included Inowetoc, Funafuti, Tinian, Apamama, Pelilieu, more (I can't remember them all & in the right order). His name is Byron Fred Gray, 2nd Lieutenant or Lieutenant Junior Grade? Forgive--I'm not familiar with military ranks. He lived in Thalia, Texas was 86 years old when he passed. If anyone has any information about the men in his squadron, please contact me. He was reliving alot of the war before he died it became very real to me. So I would like to talk to someone who might have been with him.

Guest #161 added September 15th, 2007 Name: Harry J, Irwin Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Spearfish, SD U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Browsing Military Background: USN--AMM-2C 'BOUT IT Comments: USN "PATSU001, "Black Cats"--Solomon Islands Campaign. Tempest Fugit!!

Guest #160 added September 10th, 2007 Name: mickey braden Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: garrettsville, OH U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: info on my dad at attu Military Background: dad flew on "honey dear" i think out of attu. lt. r.a evans was the pilot r.w. braden (my dad) j.f meyer w.h.bones b.moore w.allain l.t.s.gray g.harthcock and w.soehner Comments: by the looks of his log book all these men were very busy. to them thank you!

Guest #159 added September 6th, 2007 Name: Michele Koby/Kirchiane Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Jacksonville, FL U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Researching my grandfather Lt. Koby, Walter for anything I could find about my family I do not know. Trying to figure out how to prove my eligablity to the American Legion. I do not know how to aquire this info. Military Background: 1945-Jun04 VPB-71 Suadron 9th Squadron Fighter P-38 Lieutenant Walter J. Koby (0-769858), pilot of a P-38 of the Ninth Fighter Squadron of the Forty-Ninth Fighter Group. Comments: I am his Grandaughter and would like to hear from anyone about anything.

Guest #158 added August 28th, 2007 Name: Paul J. Meisch, USN (Ret) Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: St Louis, MO U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Google Search Military Background: Surface Warfare Officer, USN Comments: Was great to visit the PBY Foundation in August during my trip to NAS Whidbey for CDR Dan Brown's retirement. Keep up the good work and my fingers are crossed that a benefactor provides you with a workable flying boat. Godspeed and Good Luck!

Guest #157 added July 27th, 2007 Name: J.Howard Collins Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Coconut Creek, FL U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Military Background: I few in these Baby's in WWII in the Southwest Pacific 44-46 6th ERS On Okinawa Comments:

Guest #156 added July 11th, 2007 Name: Marsha Hammonds Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Hogansville, GA U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Ran across it in the internet Military Background: I am doing family research my grandfather was in the United States Navy. His name is Jesse Ardell Hammonds - Seaman Second Class, SV-6, USNR.I have his Honorable Discharge Certificate. He was discharged on 13th January 1946.Serial or file number 893 43 04 Place of Birth: 29 Aug 1919- Spalding County, Ga. Date of entryinto active service: 8 Nov 1943. Highest rank : S2c. Service: USNTS, Great Lakes, ILL. USNAS, Livermore, Calif; NAS, Alameda, Calif,; NAS, Livermore, Cal.; Comments: Any info will greatly be appreciated. Thanks, Marsha Hammonds

Guest #155 added July 9th, 2007 Name: Paul Curran Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: www.catalinabookings.org From: UK Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Military Background: Comments: Currently Crew Chief for Catalina G-PBYA in the UK Please keep up the good work! Please visit our web site. All the very best - Paul Curran.

Guest #154 added June 19th, 2007 Name: George J. Chambers Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Westminster, CA U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Searching Military Background: USN retired Comments: I am writing the history of the nine destroyer escorts named for aviators of Patrol Squadron 101 who served in the Philippines during December 1941.

Guest #153 added June 15th, 2007 Name: Smsgt Richard J Meisch USAF Retired Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Fort Worth, TX U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Researching the PBY because my older brother flew on them during WW II Military Background: Enlisted in the Army Air Corps on April 1946 which later became The US Airfoce in September 1947.My career field was Airborn Radio, Radar and ECM.I retired after serving 28 years, 1 month, and 23 days as a Senior Master Sargent. My older brother is CPO Adolph P Meisch US Navy retired and is actively involve in the PBY Memorial at Whidbey NAS.Our family is a military family in that the four boys served two in the Navy and two in the Airforce. We also have a nephew that retired on June 8, 2007 as Cmdr Paul J Meisch US Navy. I had the honor and priviledge to attend his retirement ceremony in Saint Louis. Needless to say we are all very proud of him, and his accomplishments. Comments: I would like to incourage everyone to support the PBY Memorial.The PBY is more than just a flying boat it did a superior job during WW II defending this great Country of ours. It needs to be saved and given a place of honor at Whidbey NAS.I implore all that read this to please do everything in your power to Station a PBY back at Whidbey NSA and give it the Honor it so richly deserves. No that aicraft is not an old sock you can just discard. She means a lot to all that maintained and flew her. Please empty your pockets and bring a PBY back to Whidbey NAS.

Guest #152 added June 10th, 2007 Name: Patti Whitten Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Eldersburg, MD U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Researching my uncle's WW2 PBY history Military Background: Comments: I'm writing a tribute to several of family members who served in WW2 and the Korean War. I'd like to collect any info on my uncle Albert Taylor's service with the Navy from 19400944. He was stationed at NAS San Diego and served in the Pacific theater, with squadron VP03, I believe. I would greatly appreciate receiving any info on his time served with this unique group. Thanks to all of you who served, are serving now, or plan to serve our country in the military...and your families!

Guest #151 added June 5th, 2007 Name: Pythia Peay Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Bethesda, MD U.S.A Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Military Background: Comments: I am looking for information about my father, Joseph W. Carroll, who flew PBY's to Ascension Island out of Natal in the summer of 1945. I am writing a memoir of his life, and would be curious if anyone out there has any information about that time.

Guest #150 added May 28th, 2007 Name: Warren W. Watson Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: U.S.A Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: looking for pictures of PBY's that my dad flew in from South America Military Background: My dad.warren watson was Navy,19280958.I was in the Marines,19590963.I saw guest #98,Brian Fisher was looking for information about his dad.I have a copy of A chronology and narrative of the personel & their flight operations.On page 9,there is aFisher,E.J.AOM3c. Comments: I build model aircraft and detail them to look like the real item. My dad was a radio operator on a PBY out of Natal, South America

Guest #149 added May 22nd, 2007 Name: Lee Truan Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: San Jose, CA U.S.A Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: By accident Military Background: U.S.Navy 19500954 Comments: Was flight engineer on PBY-6A also crewed on JRF-5 and plane captain on F4U-5N corsair and served on USS Boxer 53-54 with VC-3.

Guest #148 added May 4th, 2007 Name: ALDO AZZOLIN Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Addison, IL U.S.A Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: My son requesting VFW information Military Background: AMM3/C Enlisted 42-46 Hedron Fleet Air Wing Four. 46-48 Glenview Naval Air Station Reserve Stationed in Aleutian Islands Amchitka,Adak,Attu. Flew some sectors as sub flight engineer on PBY'S Kept charge of flight logs. Nick named "Zoot" Comments: Considered the PBY one of the greatest aircraftes ever built, loved flying in it, and amazing how those two Pratt and Whitney engines performed with such a large aircraft. Does anyone know Joe La Barbera from CA, or a Sterling from Texas, or a Chief Beard??

Guest #147 added April 23rd, 2007 Name: John W. Hamilton Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Silverton, OR U.S.A Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Prowling for Links Military Background: Photographers Mate USN 2 Tours, Korean War Comments: As a youngster, and even today, I could never imagine anything more beautiful, in the sky, than a Catalina Flying Boat! As a friend of the late Captain Ovid Neal, Commander of a WW-II Weather Squadron, I'm sure he must have put in time at the controls of a CFB. I'll be glad to share info about Ovid Neal, with other interested flyers and photographers. [JwH]

Guest #146 added April 13th, 2007 Name: Gerald Lyle Stewart Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: New Zealand Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: Surfing Military Background: N/A Comments: My Dad, F/SGT. L. L. Stewart, NZ391777, crewed in a Cat in Fiji until a crash saw him sent back to N.Z. where he later died of his injuries. I'd very much like to talk to anyone who knew him or could shed some light on what caused the accident.

Guest #145 added March 14th, 2007 Name: Wayne Baetz Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: League City, TX U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Internet search Military Background: None Comments: I am looking for information on my Grandfather. Kenny Baetz or Cigar Kenny. I belive he flew ATC and delivered PBY'S to their bases. The story from my father is he was the first PBY Pilot to navigate and dock a PBY at the T-Heads in Corpus Christi. He later went on to build Seaplanes and opened a Saeplane flying school. Thank you for any info you may have.

Guest #144 added Marcg 14th, 2007 Name: Linda MacDonald Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Long Beach, CA U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Just surfing by Military Background: My dad, brother and daughter all served in the Navy. Comments: Just trying to find any articles about my brother's plane, VP42, that disappeared on Sea Otter Glacer. Enjoyed the ceremony in Oak Harbor for the VP Squadron. My daughter was stationed at Whidbey for 4 years (I had my fears after losing my brother while stationed at Whidbey Air Base, but all turned out OK!) God Bless Our Service Men Women and their families! May they returned home safe and sound!

Guest #143 added February 16th, 2007 Name: Donna Dance Email: contact webmaster for contact information. From: Lawrenceville, GA U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Military Background: none Comments: My Grandfather, Captain Winfred S. Goodman was a Captain during WWII. He flew a PBY the "Sea Wolf" for the 4th ERS. I am not sure which flight - possibly E or G. His plane was missing Jan 23, 1945 over the Pacific, I believe he was headed to Hawaii. I also know that one of the crew members was named Anderson. I am looking for any information anyone might have. I do have a picture of the Squadron and a picture of the plane.

Guest #142 added February 6th, 2007 Name: Brian Gordon (Ex LT, USNR) Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: WA U.S.A. Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: random search for USN WWII information Military Background: Ex-LT, USNR Sea duty aboard USS OBSERVATION ISLAND (EAG054), 19670969 Naval Control of Shipping Officer, Military Sea Transportation Service Office, Vietnam, 1969-70 Military and naval historian and professor of history, 1970-present. Comments: The yarn about the Pearl Harbor photos being found in a foot locker is going around the Internet, but the most casual search of USN photos will reveal that many have been in circulation for years and are official USN photos. (Think about the story---a Brownie box camera with 65-year-old film gets discovered and 18 immaculately sharp photographs appear. The Brownie took 6 or 8 photos on a roll, no more, and even if you could imagine a roll of exposed but undeveloped 620 film lasting 65 years without becoming hopelessly fogged, it beggars belief that one sailor or soldier could be in so many places on December 7th. (My recollection is that the PBY base was at Kaneohe over on the windward side of Oahu, across the mountains, whereas the Pearl Harbor photos were taken from numerous vantage points.) It's also probable that some of the images are stills from John Ford's movie that recreated the Pearl Harbor attack after the fact, since almost no motion picture footage was taken on December 7th. So what we have here is another sea story. A good yarn that didn't happen. Sorry.

Guest #141 added January 25th, 2007 Name: Dan Hebert Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: Hebert Beck Genealogy From: Kingston, WA U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Google Sandpoint Naval AirSta Military Background: Active Duty Coast Guard from Jun 1965 to Aug 1992. Retired as Comm4 Seattle Washington Comments: I am in search of a "Andy Anderson" who was station at Sandpoint NAS between late 1945 and early 1946. It was said he was from Flatbush New York and he returned home in 1946. While stationed at Sandpoint he dated a girl by the name of Vivian Beck or Vivian Hawkins. She was 20 yrs old with two children. If you are or know this service member please contact me at my email address dan@danhebert.com. This is for Genealogy research.

Guest #140 added January 25th, 2007 Name: Julia Howard Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Dothan, AL U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Internet. Military Background: Army from 1941 to Sep. 1945. Served in Europe. Entered the Army as an enlistee through Ft. Barancas, FL. Comments: Trying to find anyone who may have had contact with may Dad during WWII in Europe or US. Went into the Army through Ft. Barancas, FL. Transportation Unit

Guest #139 added January 24th, 2007 Name: Richard Pymar Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: Halesworth Airfield Memorial Museum From: Halesworth, Suffolk UK Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Surfing Military Background: Comments: I am the secretary of the Halesworth (Holton) Airfield Memorial Museum (Stn, 365) in Suffolk England. The 5th ERS served at Halesworth flying Catalinas, B17's and P47 Thunderbolt "spotter planes". We have just erected a beautiful memorial at the former airbase to the memory of the 5th Emergency Rescue Squadron. It stands next to the 2 other memorials dedicated to the other main groups who served at Halesworth, the 56th Fighter Group "Zemkes Wolpack" and the 489th Bomb Group. Any memoribillia of any of these groups is still welcome. If any body needs any information about our group and/or the units that served here please contact me.

Guest #138 added December 27th, 2006 Name: David Willard Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: google 6th Rescue Squdron Military Background: Son of Paul C. Willard, M.D. flight surgeon in Northern Pacific. Comments: Dad flew in PBYs. I have four letters written home during the war from the Pacific.

Guest #137 added December 12th, 2006 Name: Jack Miller Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: cruising Military Background: Enlisted in Air Corps as 'flying cadet'. Eyesight bad, sent to Army Ordnance. Ordered to Adak, AK in 1945. Comments: Army brass feared I would blow whistle on illegal activities. I was 'buried' on neighboring Atka. Finally escaped only through good offices of Commander Cole of Adak Naval Air who flew over in dense fog and picked me up in his PBY. I have pictures of PBY's at home and in office.

Guest #136 added November 29th, 2006 Name: Jennifer Harman Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: NY U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: looking for information reguarding a man I call "uncle" Captain James Harman Military Background: none Comments: to just say "THANK YOU"!!!! to all the service men and women for giving their time,energy and lives to protect us. Again THANK YOU!!!!

Guest #135 added November 17th, 2006 Name: William Jones Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Soddydaisy, TN U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: by going to ww2memorial Military Background: served in ww2 in europe 78th div.went over in 43 to england was in the battle of the buldge crossed at remogan on the rhine was in berlin 6 mo. after the war was over came home in april 1946 Comments:

Guest #134 added November 11th (Veterans Day), 2006 Name: Patrick McDowell Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Eugene, OR U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Researching PBY bases Military Background: none Comments: My grandfather, Howard McDowell USN (Lt.) flew PBY's and PBM's out of numerous bases in Hawaii and Washington during WWII. I have his logbooks which show all his flights, and many pictures. Contact me via email if you have any questions, he passed away in 2003, I arranged to have some of his ashes buried at sea at Kaneowe in Hawaii, very impressive service from the U.S. Navy.

Guest #133 added November 6th, 2006 Name: Ronald T. Moran Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Ruther Glen, VA U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: I was searching for more information about my dad and his beloved plane. I still am and would love to talk to anyone that may have known him. Military Background: I am a career DoD employee and have been employed with the Defense Logistics Agency for 30 years. We supply everything that the military uses. Comments: Raymond T. Moran (my dad) was born March 11, 1919, in New York City. He passed away in Miami on April 17, 1963 and is buried there in Southern Memorial Park . He enlisted in the Navy on July 29, 1935 and retired on April 27, 1955. He served on various ships (USS Idaho, USS Langley, USS Yorktown CV-5, USS Lake Champlain)and in several squadrons, including a tour at Pearl Harbor during or soon after the Japanese attack in December 1941. Raymond Moran also served in Patrol Squadrons 21, 102 and 62, units famed for flying PBY Catalina seaplanes. The renowned flying boats were used in World War II to locate and track enemy ships and submarines. The PBYs relied heavily on visual sightings by lookouts to find their prey. His medals include the Good Conduct Medal with three bronze stars as well as the Presidential Unit Citation (for the defense of the Philippines) , Sea Service Ribbon, National Defense Medal, American Area Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal, World War II Victory Medal, American Defense Service with Fleet Clasp Medal, Pearl Harbor Medal, Army Distinguished Service Badge, as well as honorable service and honorable discharge lapel pins.

Guest #132 added October 26th, 2006 Name: Michael Earl Rhoden Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Middleburg, FL U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: just looking Military Background: U.S.Navy Vietnam era Comments: My dad was with VP12 during WWII. You can read his story at Earl "chicken" Rhoden. Would like comments My father is deceased.

Guest #131 added October 25th, 2006 Name: William B. Steele Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Falmouth, ME U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Web search Military Background: Seaman, USCG, 19830987; Journalist 2nd Class, USNR, 2001-Present Comments: Like many others here, I am looking for information about a family member. My great uncle, Gerald Silas Bennett, died in a PBY-5 training accident on the 13th or 14th of March, 1943. He was a Navy Ensign at the time and flew with Patrol Squadron #61. He was about to leave for the Aleutians on a Monday when a mishap occurred involving a P-38 Army plane. All crew members aboard the PBY were killed. Names of the crew were: Lt. George R Millican, USNR, San Fransisco; Ens. Walter Raymond Baman, USNR, San Fransisco; Ens. Gerald Silas Bennett USNR, Freeport, Maine; James B. Krenciprock, Aviation Machinist 2nd Class, USN Niles, Ohio; and Frank Ambrose Blaia, Aviation Machinists Mate 3rd Class, USN, Sacramento, Calif. If anyone knew Gerald or knows someone who might have known him during his training at Whidbey island, please send me an email, wbondsteele@yahoo.com. We would be very grateful. Thank you.

Guest #130 added October 23rd, 2006 Name: Lee Truan Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: San Jose, CA U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: By accident Military Background: Served in Navy 19500954. Spent first 2 years at Sangley Point Phillipines and was flight engineer on PBY-6A no. 46660. Was in air operations there. Made many trips to Subic Bay and clark Field. Was in on christening of cubi point when Admiral Radford flew over in our SNJ-5 and done the christening honors. Spent the last 2 years in VC-3 at moffit field CA. and had 9 mos. on USS Boxer as plane capt. on F4U-5A's Comments: Have often wondered what happened to 46660. Had lot of good times in her.great flying expierences.

Guest #129 added October 17th, 2006 Name: Craig Haws Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: WA U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: internet search Military Background: USN, VF024, USS Coral SEA CVA-43 Comments: I have been flying a PBY fire bombing at Deer Park for Washington State DNR. Currently restoring a 5-A. Should be ready for test flight in about 5-6 weeks

Guest #128 added August 19th, 2006 Name: Douglas Wade Needham Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Columbus, OH U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Web search for info on any history regarding my father's group, 4th ERS, Flight D, while he was ill and passing away. Military Background: Dad was a T.Sgt., having served in WWII and Korea. Two maternal uncles were career in the USAF. One is a USAF Major, Ret. (fighter pilot) and another was ranking enlisted for 1122nd IIRC. Have several cousins in the military at present, including a Lt. Col. Comments: Trying to find out more about my father, his flight and squadron, while occupying myself and waiting for his passing. :( Of particular interest were details about the rescue operations surrounding the Indianapolis, CA-35, which is only now being talked about by other survivors of my Dad's crewmates. My siblings and myself are in contact with the 4th ERS association, including several of his crewmates.

Guest #127 added August 10th, 2006 Name: Milton Dye Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: A friend pointed me to the site Military Background: U.S Army 1969 to 1973 Comments: I am looking for any information for the uncle I was named after (Milton Dye) that was killed in the crash of a PBY near the end of WW2.Any help would be deeply appreciated.

Guest #126 added August 9th, 2006 Name: D Kane Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: MA U.S.A. Age group: Discovered PBYMA.org: google search for PBY info Military Background: Dad was stationed at Pan American Seaplane Base in Coconut Grove, Florida during WWII. He was an Aviation Machinist, working on PBYs and PBMs. Comments: I'm looking for history, books, pictures, videos, models, etc. of PBYs & PBMs (particularly anything to do with the Miami base)

Guest #125 added June 12th, 2006 Name: Byron L. "Sadie" Sadler Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Darrington, WA U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Got an email from a former Navy friend. Military Background: USN from 9/15/40 to 10/?/47 Was ARM in VP Squadron Flight crew from 6/?/41 to 3/?/43 In Newfoundland and Kaneohe So Pac. Comments: Former Plane Crew WW-2

Guest #124 added June 10th, 2006 Name: Max Geoffroy Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Montreal, Quebec Canada Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: Firefox search engine Military Background: retired col,usmc.VMFA 531 GRAYGHOSTs Comments: This is by far one of the best sites for PBYs that I've come across. It's nice to see beautiful old aircraft like the PBY being restored....

Guest #123 added June 7th, 2006 Name: Leon G Maue Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: McAdoo, PA U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Surfing Military Background: 348th Fighter group, Southwest Pacific. Port Moresbory,to the Phillipines, home from Okinawa after war ended. Comments: Very interesting web site

Guest #122 added May 14th, 2006 Name: Ralph Milon Greenough Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Lancaster, CA U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Sister told my wife. Military Background: U.S.N reserves from 1941 to 1946. Y1/c.Was in the pacific until the end of the war, aboard the USS Current. ARS22 Comments:

Guest #121 added May 13th, 2006 Name: Walter O. Sheppard Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Looking for History of Flight D, 4th Emergency Rescue Squadron Stationed on Saipan and Pelieu. More particularlly History of Open Sea Landings in rescue of U.S. Marine pilots forced to ditch in the Pacific and Phillipine Sea by OA10-A's from said Flight 'D'. Military Background: Pilot of an OA10A (PBY5-A). Flight Leader of Flight 'D'4th Emergency Squadron 20th Air Force. Prior to being sent to Pensacola Naval Air Station for instruction in Flying the OA00A was a Twin Engine Instrument Flying Instructor at Stutgart, AR.Was graduated from Kelly Field, Texas 29 April 1942.Designated a Navy Aviator upon graduation from NAS Pensacola, Fl and odered to Kessler Field, Biloxi, MS for formation of the 4th Emergency Rescue Squardon. Comments: Pilot of an OA10A (PBY5A)WWll.

Guest #120 added May 2nd, 2006 Name: Murray Bolesta Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: TuleReed Photography From: Green Valley AZ, U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Your DVD Military Background: None personally - my parent's generation are WWII. Comments: My uncle is Bob Muzzall. Saw the DVD and want to buy it. Love the old warbirds and WWII history. My father was a Marine assigned to guard the base on Whidbey, where he met my mother.

Guest #119 added April 5th, 2006 Name: Jerry Atchison Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Earp CA, U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Resurching NAS KANEOHE BAY DEC. 7, 1941. I watched them fly out of the naval station 19400942 Military Background: KOREAN WAR 19500954 US NAVY BM1 Comments: My father was stationed at NAS KANEOHE BAY 1939 - 1943. Our family was living there with him from 1940 to 1942. I was ten years old at the time of the attack Dec. 7, 1941, my brother and I would ride our bikes down to the bay quite often to watch the PBY'S take off and land on the water, before the attack that is. Always had an interest in the PBY.

Guest #118 added April 2nd, 2006 Name: M/Sgt. Howard J. Fuller, USMCR Ret Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Riverside CA, U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Opened up your web site Military Background: Six year active March 40 to 46. Effective 1957, when placed on the Retired list, held an MOS of Squadron Leading Chief. Had the Right seat in General Geiger's PBY for 1 hour, great thril Pilot Major J. Cram Comments: Found your site to be very interesting, I joined the PBY Catalina Memorial a few months ago and enjoy the publications. Keep up the good work.

Guest #117 added March 28th, 2006 Name: Mike Brand Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: From: Frankfort IL, U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Google Military Background: Draftee --US Army - 1969-71 Comments: My father, Gerald (Jerry) Brand enlisted in the U.S. Navy in February, 1941. Was honor graduate of his basic training company at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. During WWII, he served as an aviation chief radioman in Catalina/PBY patrol planes in Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. Assigned to bases at San Diego, CA; Seattle, WA; Sitka, Kodiak, Cold Bay, Umnak, Nome, Adak, Amchitka and Attu, Alaska with Patrol Squadron 42 then PS 135. Was involved in some sort of secret mission that caused Navy to ship his personal effects home in 1943 without an explanation. Family thought he was deceased or MIA. He was assigned to Jacksonville NAS until mustering out as CPO in 1945.

Guest #116 added February 16th, 2006 Name: STEPHEN HORVAT Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: AOL KEWORD:COOLSPORT CLUB From: IRVINE CA, U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: SOME ONE MAILED ME A PAMPHLET Military Background: PLANE CAPTAIN AND GUNNER ON PBY-5A AMM SQUADERN 18-A CORPUS CHRISTI NAS TEXAS GULF COAST ANTI-SUB PATROL&TRAINING 1944 PLANES NAME G.I.DATE [BEAUTIFUL BLOND ON NOSE OF PLANE]. Comments: BUILT A "GUILIOWS" MODEL OF PBY-5A AND SHE IS FLYING HIGH IN THE CORNER OF MY BEDROOM AND SHE LOOKS LIKE THE REAL THING. SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL. I AM GLAD I DON'T HAVE TO REFUEL HER, WITH THE PRICE OF GAS, BUT SHE SURE BRINGS BACK GOOD OLD MEMORIES EVERY DAY WHEN I LOOK AT HER.

Guest #115 added January 26th, 2006 Name: Irene Robertson Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Seattle WA, U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Looking for information on my father Military Background: My dad, Raiford Benjamin Robertson aka Robbie, was in the Navy during WWII and later in Korea. Comments: I am looking for anyone that knew my dad during the Korean war and post war (1953-54) He was killed during a take off from Sangley Point.

Guest #114 added January 23rd, 2006 Name: Art Dahlgren Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Bloomington IN, U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Looking for PBY bases in Pacific Military Background: In 1944 (late 44) assigned to FASRON/PATRON 17. I ended up at Meos Woendi Isl near Biak. Worked as an AOM. got to ride around in base area. Next up to Sangly Point, nead Manila servicing PBY and PBM ac. Retired in late 74 Comments: Never did know the aoutits mission. any help ? Great start into Naval Air and five carrirs and a tender.

Guest #113 added December 31st, 2005 Name: Jeanne Fess Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Caldwell NJ, U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Military Background: None Comments: My father Eugene J. (Buddy) Johnston was in the Navy between 19420945. He always told me he was a rear gunner pilot. His discharge papers read aviation ordanceman second class. Would like to correspond with anyone who can help me access his records.

Guest #112 added December 27th, 2005 Name: Jack Kelly, Jr. Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Southbury CT, U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Google Military Background: None Comments: My father was attached to VPB 34. Funafuti, Port Moresby, Perth, amongst other locations from late 43 to mid-late 44. Member of the Arkansas Traveler crew. With growing grandchild interest and little written record, I'm seeking information/ recollections of his service.

Guest #111 added December 22nd, 2005 Name: Frederic A. Jaques Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Novi WI, U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Just surfing Military Background: Ex RAF Sgt. Pilkot trained with USN at Grosse Ile and Pensacola 1942-43 Comments: I am an ex-Royal Air Firce cadet who trained with the USN at Grose Ile and Pensacola. On my last training flight- a night flight, - on Sept 27th 1943 we had an emergency and in trying to land my instructor overshot the water and hit the beach at Ft. Barancas. Three were killed and only Lt. Jg. Horton and myself, RAF Cadet Frederic A. Jaques, survived. I would appreciate any information anyone may have with regard to that night. I now live in Novi, Michigan.

Guest #110 added November 29th, 2005 Name: Johnnie T. Watson USN-Ret Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Kerrville TX, U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Looking for past history on Aerial Gunners Military Background: 19430973, Under-aged Navy enlisted. Aviation Ordnanceman, Aerial Gunner. Combat aircrewman. Flew in PBY's out of NAS Adak, Aleutian Islands, 19510953 crewman and tow target operator. Survived a crash on the island of Atka while on a medical rescue. Long standing love affair with the old "Yoke-Boat".

Guest #109 added November 23rd, 2005 Name: J M Jones Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Auburn AL, U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Web search for VPB 44 Solomon Islands Military Background: None Comments: My dad,"E" "J"Jones from Mesquite, Texas was a Y1c assigned to a PBY aircrew with Patrol Bombing Squadron 44 in the Solomons from sometime in 1944 through 1945. I'd like to know if anyone may have known him. He ultimately was assigned to NAS Quonset PT, RI and was in P'cola NATTC in 1946.

Guest #108 added October 31st, 2005 Name: Minnette McKenna Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Austin TX, U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Web surfing / Google Military Background: None, but my father flew PBY Catalina in WWII South Pacific Comments: I am very interested in buying PBY Catalina T-shirts in various sizes from children thru adult. Any help greatly appreciated

Guest #107 added October 23rd, 2005 Name: Douglas G. Macnair Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: The Woodlands, U.S.A. Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Pure Luck! Military Background: Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.) Comments: My Father, Colonel George H. Macnair, USAAC, went down in Liberia in June, 1945. A command pilot, he either formed or help form the Air Sea Rescue Service in '44 at Biloxi & Gulfport. Ordered to Liberia for a second tour, he took his favorite bird with him; it was, of course, a PBY. The details surrounding this period in his career to include the crash have always been shrouded in a fog lacking detail and definition. Thought perhaps by pure chance, someone might know more than I do. If you think you might be able to help, I can forward a picture of him standing by his PBY. Thanks...

Guest #106 added August 30th, 2005 Name: Shelby Jones Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Mount Vernon, U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: military sites Military Background: none Comments: Just trying to look for information on Ault Field! And trying to find my brothers real father who was stationed at Whidbey's Ault Field.(Daniel Deshone)1967-?. My brother has never met him. I love finding people trying to preserve our Washington history, since i've been doing all this research, I am finding that there really isn't a lot out there. My hats off to you gentlemen, great job. If anyone can help me locate some photos of men at Ault Field in 67-68 would help me tremendously. No luck so far.

Guest #105 added August 5th, 2005 Name: Erik D. Zimmeht Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: U.S.A. Age group: 20-29 Discovered PBYMA.org: Google search Military Background: Comments: I AM LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON MY GRANDFATHER THAT WAS KILLED A PLANE CRASH IN 1959 OR 1960. I HAVE LITTLE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ACCIDENT. THE PLANE WENT DOWN OFF THE COAST OF CALIFORNIA, IT WAS A P2V NEPTUNE. HIS NAMES WAS HAROLD DOUGLAS GRIMSLEY. HE WAS KILLED 3 MONTHS AFTER HIS DAUGHTER WAS BORN (MY MOTHER). IF ANYONE HAS ONY INFORMATION ABOUT HIM OR THE CRASH PLEASE CONTACT ME.

Guest #104 added July 7th, 2005 Name: Brian E. Sager Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: U.S.A. Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: Previous writting Military Background: US Army 19580965 Retired E-9 Comments: I previously wrote for information on my Uncle (JOHN A. KOONS. I had written that he was a PBY pilot. I have since found that he was a crew member Amm1c and his pilot was Melvin K. Atwell or Dick Mather who had bombed a ship on October 1942. I hope this will add information for possible information/pictures that inclued my uncle. Again thanks for your service to our country.

Guest #103 added July 3rd, 2005 Name: Lee Harman Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Military Background: Retired Navy FLight Surgeon. Father, Retired Naval Aviator; PBY/PBM pilot and member of Marlin/Mariner Association. Comments: Anything to see in Oak Harbor, this July 4th Weekend? Dad's here from Cocoa, Florida, and active in restoring the PBM 5A at Pima, and Navy Pensacola's PBY restoration.

Guest #102 added June 23rd, 2005 Name: Edgar Josephsen Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Camano Island, WA U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: Through brochure given to me by a friend in Oak Harbor. Military Background: U.S. Navy, World War II. Was an Aviation Radioman 2/c in Squadron VPB-25, flying PBM-3Ds. Comments: Lost most of our planes in Pacific. A PBY outfit, VPB-33 left us their planes when they were sent home, so we flew PBYs until new PBM-5s arrived.

Guest #101 added June 18th, 2005 Name: Brian E. Sager Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: U.S.A. Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: Surfing the net to find information below Military Background: Retired Army Sergeat-major. served 19580985 Comments: My uncle served with VP-91 and went down at sea when flying from Oahu to San Diego on 05 Mar 43. I am requesting any information from persons who may have served with him. His name was John A. Koons. Middle initial has been listed as "K". He was a pilot from Sep 41. Prior to his becoming a pilot he served on a destroyer.

Guest #100 added May 16th, 2005 Name: John R. Carlson Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Creston, IA U.S.A. Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: ww11memorial Military Background: Radio Operator (aircraft 46th troop carrier sqdn. 5th air force Comments: After drifting in the Pacific for 17 days we were rescued by a PBY. Other than the names of the pilot and co-pilot I have no further info. The pilot was Ens. Minter Aldrich and the co-pilot was Ens. Eddie Johnson. Would appreciate any input from any one. J. R. "Jack" Carlson

Guest #99 added April 24th, 2005 Name: Larry Moses Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Oliveburg, PA U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Searching on google Military Background: Retired Master Sargeant, US Army, 19690993, Vietnam Veteran. Comments: My Wifes uncle Isaac J. Osborn flew with the Black Cats in Patrol Squadron 34 in the Pacific Area in April of 1944, he was shot down and listed as MIA, supposedly captured and sent to a Japanese prison camp called RABAUL, possibly killed in an allied bombing raid. He received a Purple heart postumously, however, she has been trying to find records of his service or anyone who may have known him. Anyone with any recollection or info on how to locate his service record is welcomed to contact us.

Guest #98 added March 10th, 2005 Name: Brian Fisher Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Johnson City, NY U.S.A. Age group: 20-29 Discovered PBYMA.org: Searching for the PBY squdron for my late grandfather Military Background: I served the the Marines from '99-'03 Medically retired as a Sergeant. Served abroad in Infantry Battallions, as well as the 2nd Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Company in the Middle East as well as all over Europe. Comments: My grandfather, Andrew L. Fisher was a radio operator/turrent gunner with the Patrol Squadron 83, later known Bombing Squadron 107, his unit served in South America. He was shot down over Brazil or Argentina, I'm not totally sure where. His unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for actions from January to April of '43; July of '43 to February of '44 for sinking one Italian and eight German U-Boats. I have always been interested in his experience but was never aware of it until 15 years after his death. I quess he never talked about it, partly due to his craft being shot down and he and only one other survived the crash. If anyone has any info regarding A.Fisher or Patrol Squadron 83 or later known Bombing Squadron 107, I would love to learn or hear any stories. -Sgt Fisher, B.L USMC/RETIRED

Guest #97 added March 4th, 2005 Name: Terry Siddiqui Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Miami Lakes, FL U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Yahoo PBY Search Military Background: No.. but have worked for Military as an outside vendor/contractor. Comments: The first time I saw a Catalina flying around in an airshow, I fell in love with this aircraft. I am a Naval aircraft enthusiat and specially the amphibian type aircraft.

Guest #96 added February 26nd, 2005 Name: Greg Rojowski Email: contact webmaster for contact information. Web Site: none From: Detroit, MI U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Active search for PBY crew members from South Pacific Military Background: None Comments: To learn more about all of the memorabilia my late dad kept hidden for 60 years. Especially the original VP12 "History of Original Black Cat Squadron" manuscript. Amazing condition. I would be available to interview anyone whose name appears in dad's manuscript.

Guest #95 added February 22nd, 2005 Name: Duane McEwen Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: none From: Lyndon, WA U.S.A. Age group: 60-69 Discovered PBYMA.org: searched the web Military Background: 3 yrs, 8 months US Army Signal Corps. Last 21 months were in Alaska Communication System and stationed at Tok, Alaska Comments: Spent 30+ years in Alaska before retiring and moving south. Spent about 15 years of that in Juneau, Alaska, mostly in the 60s and 70s, and then my last two years just before I retired. In the 60s, rode on some of the Alaska Coastal Airlines PBYs. Worked mostly in the aviation industry as an equipment technician. Spent several years working in the Aleutians in the 90s. Fascinated by seaplanes, Alaska aviation history, and Aleutians history.

Guest #94 added February 15th, 2005 Name: Barry Nicholls Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: Animal Medical Center From: Anniston, AL U.S.A. Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: My sister told me about it. Military Background: none Comments: I am seeking information on my father, Andrew Barry Crook Nicholls, of Vicksburg, Mississippi, and later of Talladega, Alabama. He was a navigator on a PBY during WWII (19430945) and participated in flight school in Pensacola, FL. I am a veterinarian in Anniston, Alabama. Thanks, Barry Nicholls, DVM 256-236-8387

Guest #93 added January 30th, 2005 Name: Raymond Bush Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: From: Warwick, PA. U.S.A. Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Just interested in finding more information on PBY'S and there crews in the early days of WWII. Military Background: Enlisted Army Reserve 19660972. Comments: My father in law Irvin Gerben (The Kid) served as a very young salor on the Kaneohe NAS in Aug. 1941.He was a waist gunner with squadron VP#12. Also he is a survivor of the Japaness air attack in Dec. of 41. He is very proud of the controbution he and his fellow survivors went on to make in the war effort. Through the years that I have known him he would always remminess of his buddies and exployts with patrol squadron VP#12(Black Cats). He was at Midway, Eastern Is. and Pelelu. Flew to Gaudalcanal and the Philippnes. This guy was also on the boxing team. Hopefully some one else may recall him and pass on some info about their times together. He is a member of Pearl Harbor Survivors and the Catalina Clippers in Phila. Unfortunatly he dosen't get around as well as in the past (84 yrs). Please email me or call him 215-8240277.

Guest #92 added January 23rd, 2005 Name: John Glaviano Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: From: Marksville, LA. U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Browsing the internet. Military Background: Writing on behalf of my dad who is an 83 year old WWII vet. Sam D. Glaviano was aboard the USS Dent during the war. Comments: He is trying to find out some info on a PBY plane crash he was involved in on the Island of the four mountains in May or June of 1943.If anybody can help him he would deeply appericate it. If anyone can help please contact me at my email address or him at (318) 253-8929. Thank you, John K.Glaviano

Guest #91 added November 17th, 2004 Name: Michael Gallagher Jr Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: From: Chicago, IL U.S.A. Age group: 30-39 Discovered PBYMA.org: Just looking around. Military Background: none Comments: Hi, I'm Mike Gallagher Jr. My grandfather was on the boxcar in WW2 and I'd like to know of any info out there on him or this plane. He was sgt Raymond C. Gallagher. So let me know people. Thanks, bye.

Guest #90 added October 28th, 2004 Name: Benjamin G Dochoff Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: From: 148 N Richard Ave Elmhurst, IL Age group: 70-79 Discovered PBYMA.org: Web search Military Background: Kiddy cruise 09/43 tru 08/47 regular navy. Comments: Joined VPB 62 January 01,45. Oak Harbor, rate AOM2.two tours in the Aleutians, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, Adak & Attu.

Guest #89 added October 22th, 2004 Name: Richard Pymar Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: From: Halesworth, Suffolk England Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Browsing Military Background: Comments: I am the secretary of the Halesworth (Holton) Airfield Memorial Museum (Stn, 365) in Suffolk England. The 5th ERS served at Halesworth flying Catalinas, B17's and P47 Thunderbolt "spotter planes". We have just erected a beautiful memorial at the former airbase to the memory of the 5th Emergency Rescue Squadron. It stands next to the 2 other memorials dedicated to the other main groups who served at Halesworth, the 56th Fighter Group "Zemkes Wolpack" and the 489th Bomb Group. Any memoribillia of any of these groups is still welcome. If any body needs any information about our group and/or the units that served here please contact me.

Guest #88 added September 28th, 2004 Name: Thijs C. Wolters Email: contact webmaster for email address Web Site: Neptune Association From: Netherlands Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Via Google Military Background: Royal Dutch Airforce Comments: World oldest FLYING PBY-5a, #2459, former US Navy 73-P-9 from VP-73 is flying again after 3 1/2 years of restoration in the Netherlands. Visit our site and enjoy. Maybe there are still veterans who have flown with this beauty.

Guest #87 added September 17th, 2004 Name: Roger D Ferguson Email: contact webmaster for email address From: Champaign, IL U.S.A Age group: 80-89 Discovered PBYMA.org: happenstance Military Background: US Navy 10/27/42 to 5/12/46 Comments: Navy V-5 Program. WTS Mason City, IA Jan-Mar 1943. Iowa Preflight May-July 1943. Minneapolis, MN Wold-Chamberlain Field Primary N2S August-October 1943. Pensacola, FL for Baisc in SNV, Instrument SNJ and PBYs. Commissioned Ensign and Naval Pilot P01391 March 31, 1944. Operational in PBYs at Jacksonville, FL April-June 5th 1944. July 1944 to June 1945 VPB-45 in Belem and Bahia Brazil. July 1945 May 1946 VJ06 in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Two PBY-5As that I personally flew are still in existence. BuNo 46522 (now N2172N) is airworthy and at the Air Museum at Tillamook, OR. BuNo 46602 (45-P-3) belongs to the Naval Air Museum in Pensacola. It is parked on the flight line there and will be completely restored at a future date. Roger D. Ferguson S/N 363800

Guest #86 added September 9th, 2004 Name: Larry McCarthy Email: contact webmaster for email address From: Braintree, MA U.S.A Age group: 40-49 Discovered PBYMA.org: Doing research on a rescue mission - searching for a downed Liberator. Military Background: I never served, but father and his brother - both Navy and three uncles served in Air Force. Comments: I'm looking for info regarding any reports or logs that were kept by PBY pilots after search missions. In particular wreckage sighting coordinates or search area coordinates. NARA says that actual search reports weren't kept before Dec/43. My uncle was lost in a Liberator 1103-43 off the coast of Funafuti-Central Pacific.Wreckage was sighted 1105-43 by Lt's Finucane and Hollister-flying PBY-5's for Patrol Squadron Seventy-Two. I would appreciate any information anyone might have regarding the possibility of flight logs etc. I know its a long shot but thanks. L.

Guest #85 added September 2nd, 2004 Name: Dave Gause Email: contact webmaster for email address From: Bonners Ferry, Idaho U.S.A Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: Surfing for info. on my father's units. Pat Freeman had told me about this endeavor in a phone conversation so I recognized it. Military Background: None: Father, Don (Page, Joe)Gause, was in Navy ,patrol squadron 42; Hedron,patwing4; Hedron FAW6;Hedron14-2 Faw 14; Casu9 Comments: My father did not talk much military, but built a beautiful PBy model and talked of Alaska and his PBY time there (Pre war until units sent eleswhere later). Would love to make contact to find out more what the later places were.

Guest #84 added August 30th, 2004 Name: Richard Luther Email: contact webmaster for email address From: Cedar Rapids, IOWA U.S.A Age group: 50-59 Discovered PBYMA.org: General search regarding Oak Harbor Military Background: No military background, just the son of a sailor. Comments: My father, Donald Ray Luther, was stationed at Ault Field 19500954 as a patrol bomber radioman (VP0). I remember as a child going to the seaplane base to see movies and shop. The home we lived in at that time still stands and the neighborhood (between the old downtown and the seaplane base) remains mostly unchanged in 50 years (just a few more homes between the house and harbor). comments: My father, Donald Ray Luther, was a PBY flight crew member during WWII. I don't have any details regarding his service but believe he was stationed out of Corpus Christi and served in the south Pacific. I don't know if he ever served at the Oak Harbor Seaplane Base. I'm interested in the history of the seaplane base and Ault Field.

Guest #83 added August 1st, 2004