Veterans/Retired Military

katfish16 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-19-2008, 08:07 AM

Any other Retired Military or Veterans out there?????

My self 28 great yrs U.S. Coast Guard. Wife was a military brat when we met N Japan. So she has been Military her whole life.

Thanks To All of YOU!!!!!!

daexyooper · #2 (**permalink**) 02-19-2008, 12:39 PM

Steve, I'm a retired E-8, USAF 1964 to 1985

katfish16 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-19-2008, 01:03 PM

daexyooper, my wifes family is just about all Air Force,
her father 32 yrs
brother 22yrs
nephew-still active duty
nephew's wife still active duty
me and a brother n law are the black sheep he was 22yrs Navy and me Coast Guard
Thanks for ur service

Rod Bearing · #4 (**permalink**) 02-19-2008, 03:53 PM

To the Vets that were in Nam, "Welcome Home." To all Vets and current active duty, "Thanks for your Service".

Also, if you haven't ridden with the Patriot Guard, think about it.

ka1ogk · #5 (**permalink**) 04-21-2008, 07:17 PM

nam here Nov 69-oct 70
Feb 71-jan 72
Army Engineers
had a Nephew In Iraqe 18 months made it home safe.
And thanks for the welcome home that was the second time anyone has said that.

Don

Ron H · #6 (**permalink**) 04-21-2008, 08:53 PM

MSG, US Army, Ret. here

katfish16 · #7 (**permalink**) 04-21-2008, 09:28 PM

Don, in 1970 I was sitting on the Island of Iwo Jima. U.S. Coast Guard Loran Station me and 34 other Guys!! oh yea we had a dog...... There were 3 of us there from the South and soon found out the Japanese could not take a joke. We took their flag down and put up the Rebel flag(was kinda bored) man did we get into some trouble. I never saw a man yell and turn as red as the Chief of the station did. We did not do that again.

mikey · #8 (**permalink**) 04-22-2008, 11:21 AM

I was in the Florida National Guard from 1963 to 1976....I was an E-7. (I saw a lot of changes during that time!) I was in Miami during the riots in the 1960's.
Mikey

elber.swinson@verizon.net · #9 (**permalink**) 04-22-2008, 04:58 PM

US Army 1st Signal Brigade
1970-1971
Long Bin

The other day some one said to "welcome home" to me and I must say even after 37 years it still struck a nerve. It made me fell good I WILL always remember it and I'll try to pass it along when I can.

katfish16 · #10 (**permalink**) 04-22-2008, 06:04 PM

Elber, I know what U mean. At my retirement cermony (in 1997)I thanked my Father and the other Veterans for their service. Needless to say there was not a dry eye left in the audiance. One man there was one of the first Navy Frogmen, I had given he a tour of my Cutter and gave him a unit hat. He was like a kid who just got a new toy. Sometimes a heart felt thank you can go a long way.

chickie · #11 (**permalink**) 04-23-2008, 01:35 PM

Hey Katfish 5 1/2 years in Uncle Sams canoe club. 1 Year in Nam Sept.69 to Sept 69 then 3 years in Puerto Rico Naval transmitter site near Ramey AFB. Had to get out then.
Chickie

Trikerjim · #12 (**permalink**) 04-23-2008, 02:19 PM

1972-76 ssgt USAF
Step-Son E-3 Army (Desert Shield/Storm) Home now
Brother-in-Law Retired CPO- Navy

God Bless all of you!

Hawkeye · #13 (**permalink**) 04-29-2008, 02:48 PM

US Navy: 1967 - 1971 - Vietnam 68-69-70, San Diego 71
US Air Force: 1972 - 1976 - Colorado Springs, CO

brownjug · #14 (**permalink**) 04-29-2008, 08:38 PM

Usaf 1958-1964

Buzzard · #15 (**permalink**) 04-30-2008, 08:08 AM

Buzzard, CW4, US Army 1960 - 1985. Three VN Combat Tours.

michael swan · #16 (**permalink**) 05-02-2008, 07:06 PM

Thanks for the welcome home.In nam from jan 70-jan 71.Army engineers at whiskey mountain. Mike

Trikerbob01 · #17 (**permalink**) 05-03-2008, 08:31 AM

I was in the Marines for 4 years 1961-1965. Stayed out 6 months and joined the Air Force. Was in for 6 1/2 years.But rank was frozen and so wasn't my career field so I got out. Will always be a Marine. SemperFi!!

Bob

Yellow Trike · #18 (**permalink**) 05-03-2008, 03:54 PM

My husband and I volunteered to hand out clovers for the VVA Welcome Home. Chapter 951 received $1000 in donations that day.

As the spouse of a Viet Name veteran I have seen shock and pleasure of Vietnam Veterans, after 40 years, when someone says, "Thank you for your service."

The photo below is of VVA Chapter 951 President Dean Gotham (right) and member Larry Schneider (left).

Yesterday we attended the dedication of the Veterans Bridge in Lake County, CA. Veterans and Patriot Guard Riders were the first to cross the bridge following the dedication.

bigdave · #19 (**permalink**) 05-10-2008, 08:24 AM

4 submarine patrols
My thanks to all of the Vets

billh · #20 (**permalink**) 05-11-2008, 04:13 PM

Was in the Army '62 - '67, Vietman '66.

Bill

John Luciano · #21 (**permalink**) 05-19-2008, 08:32 PM

1967 1968 459 Sig Batalion, Sun Cau Vietnam. I was attached to Mangho (TIGER) Korean Army.

patriot · #22 (**permalink**) 07-10-2008, 04:44 PM

USAF E7, 1968 - 1989

I did not make it to VN, however, I served in the theater area. I salute those who were in Viet Nam. It was a sacrifice and I appreciate it.

#23 (**permalink**) 07-10-2008, 06:21 PM

I would take clean water and get on my knee's and wash your feet in shear thanks for giving my family a safe land to live in... I Salute every Dam one of you till my arm gets so tired I pass out. Have a beer on me...
kodiak

Nana · #24 (**permalink**) 09-25-2008, 04:29 PM

The traveling wall is in our area this week, and we rode over to see it today. I've been to the big one in DC several times, and it is always deeply moving and very emotional for me. Even this 1/2-sized wall leaves me on the edge of tears and has an atmosphere of deep and solemn stillness. I was honored to chat for a few minutes with 4-5 vets who were there, all but one from Vietnam. The younger man was a veteran of Desert Storm, as is my son-in-law of whom I am very proud. I told them how much I respect and appreciate what they have done for all of us, even though we are total strangers to them. Obviously this exhibit really meant a lot to these veterans, and I am so glad the traveling wall is constantly being exhibited around the country so that everyone has the opportunity to experience it. I know I am talking about an American memorial here, but I am sure that this same emotion and pride is felt by people of every country when they think of the service and self-sacrifice of their military men and women.

bamarascal · #25 (**permalink**) 09-25-2008, 05:21 PM

USAF 1962-1966. Dept. Veterans Affairs 1973-2005.
Rolling Thunder/Run to the Wall, several times.

John Luciano · #26 (**permalink**) 09-25-2008, 07:03 PM

ABOUT THE TRAVELING WALL I drove to a viewing of the wall about 40 miles from my home. My wife and I rode on the bike down to it. That was a big mistake. She cant drive the trike. I didn't realize how emotional it was going to be. I ended up almost passing out. I had to go speak with a chapin before I could compose my self enough to ride home. Seeing the names of comrades in print brought me to my knees. I will never try that again. Vietnam Mothers Day 1967 1968 When I came home I was not greeted at the airport I snuck in on a RED eye from Fort Ord Calf.

Georgew48 · #27 (**permalink**) 02-11-2009, 06:51 PM

USAF CMSGT retired. a little over 28 years. Thank you to all Vets.

newtriker · #28 (**permalink**) 02-11-2009, 07:59 PM

Our son in law is active duty navy--on his second re-enlistment. He's the only one in the family that is military so we are learning about the life. We are so proud of him and see what sacrifices it is for the family. We spend more time than we thought we would just keeping up morale of daughter and grand daughter when he's gone, which is a lot. We've helped them move and we have gone to visit them in VA several times just to keep the family close. We wouldn't change a thing though and have a new respect for all military men and women plus their families.

rmrc51 · #29 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 05:22 AM

U.S. Coast Guard 1970 - 1976

Search & Rescue / Port Security.

I've always been in the habit of wearing my Coast Guard cap. Just last week I stopped at a drive in Duncan Donuts and the lady asked if I was in the military. I just told her that it was many many years ago but I wished I had never left. Can you believe that she gave me a military discount on my coffee??? lol. But I tell ya,,, it really felt good!!!! Brought me back in time!!!!

Juju · #30 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 06:32 AM

I don't know how I missed this thread the first time around.

Both the Chief and I are retired from the Navy. He did 21 years and I did 20. We both started out as enlisted Parachute Riggers, met when we were both teaching at the PR school, and I got my commission at about the 10-year mark. After that, we had a "mixed marriage."

ultraboy · #31 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 08:00 AM

I too missed this thread first time around.

Ultra

USAF Helo driver 1966 -1970, Nam '66-'69
USN Helo driver '74-'79
American Legion Riders Chapter IN-403

To all the Nam Vets, Welcome Home!

Juju · #32 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 10:05 AM

I'm glad this is a forum where we all recognize and respect each other's differences of opinion. I hear people say that all the time, but they don't always mean it. I think on this forum, we DO mean it. (Except that Honda trikes really are the best!

)

And it's important also to recognize that not every nation has the same attitude toward military service that Americans do. I appreciate that. Jeez, even Americans weren't always so sensitive to the hardships of service.

Anyway, I think that though it's our similar interests that draw us together, it's the sum total of our differences that makes us strong. At the risk of drawing fire for using French (

), vive la difference!

topgatt1 · #33 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 02:55 PM

Hey y'all Been a member since November...first post.. Msgt USMC 26 Yrs. Did the Nam thing 63' 64'...69' 70' Been retired 30 Yrs Have ridden off and on. Bought a sportster...Big mistake Too light at my age and weight! Traded for an '07 (new) VTX 1300/Champion Trike...Been tuning up the trike and myself (Read spending Money) But having agood time anyway.....Next step is the Hoverround Great site..By thre way I live in NW Georgia on the brow of Lookout Mountain

Juju · #34 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 03:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by topgatt1

By thre way I live in NW Georgia on the brow of Lookout Mountain

Welcome aboard, topgatt! I'm in the Florida panhandle, but I have a good friend who lives across the way on Signal Mountain--small world!

topgatt1 · #35 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 04:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Juju

Welcome aboard, topgatt! I'm in the Florida panhandle, but I have a good friend who lives across the way on Signal Mountain--small world!

Glad to be here...It's a great site.I'm not too swift at this computer stuff...butif Ican figure out how to upload pictures , I'll get my Trike on here.

Mr.Wizard · #36 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 05:26 PM

Jump across the creek to Signal Mountain and take W Road.. going up is very cool.. coming down is a way different story. It will make you want to put your feet down.

bigred06 · #37 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 05:52 PM

Usn, 1965-1969

Nana · #38 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 06:00 PM

Welcome topgatt1! And thank you so much for your service as well as all the rest of you who have documented yours on here! We wouldn't be here without all of you, that's for sure!

Mattel · #39 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 08:18 PM

I don't know how I missed this thread either.....

I put in 10 years with the Army National Guard. I started when I was 17 in 11th grade (my parents had to sign to give their permission!). I made E-5 before I was forced out in the Clinton budget cuts in 1995. I had a great time, learned important lessons, and I will never forget those years.

People in foreign country's can talk all the trash they want to, but time after time, it is the stars and the stripes that forge the salvation they see, when their country is up to it's eyeballs in occupation at the hands of a foreign army that they thought they could talk reason with.

saybel · #40 (**permalink**) 02-13-2009, 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mattel

People in foreign country's can talk all the trash they want to, but time after time, it is the stars and the stripes that forge the salvation they see, when their country is up to it's eyeballs in occupation at the hands of a foreign army that they thought they could talk reason with.

Mattel, well said, I am in total agreement. If it wasn't for our military we wouldn't have our freedom, and those criticizing us wouldn't have theirs either. When someone takes a shot at our military (hero's), they are taking a shot at my brother, father, grand father, and almost all other family's in this GREAT country. We as a country may not always make the right decisions, although, I think we do almost all the time. At least we make a decision, and stand up for ourselves, and not sit around and let others make them for us.

GOD bless all our military, present and past!!!

katfish16 · #41 (**permalink**) 02-13-2009, 02:15 PM

RmRC51, (Rich) where were U stationed??? Tried to send U a PM but u have it turned off.
I spent 28 great yrs in the Coast Guard.

tis · #42 (**permalink**) 02-13-2009, 04:06 PM

I really have to bite my tongue when I hear something negative about our Veteran's. I served my time, and have alot of memories. I'll always be greatful to have had the Honor to serve with both male & female, I was on a strike team with a bunch of great guys. One of my saddest moments was coming home from the Air Force in 1964 and seeing how the Students from Harvard University & I'm sure all other colleges were treating our Veteran's and protesting the war. Bottom line we go all over the Globe to protect Democracy, and what we get in return is people speaking out (FREE SPEACH) I do remember when someone Thanked me the first time for being a Veteran. Sorry for being so long winded. Somethings just get to me...........

CrosseyedDragon · #43 (**permalink**) 02-18-2009, 11:05 AM

I wasn't in the military. However, my husband was in the 101st Airborne in Vietnam in 1968-1969, my late father-in-law was a WWII Navy veteran, and my grandfather was a WWI veteran. I also have an ancestor who was in the Union Army, one who was in the Confederate Army, and one who did two tours during the Revolutionary War.

rmrc51 · #44 (**permalink**) 02-18-2009, 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CrosseyedDragon

I wasn't in the military. However, my husband was in the 101st Airborne in Vietnam in 1968-1969, my late father-in-law was a WWII Navy veteran, and my grandfather was a WWI veteran. I also have an ancestor who was in the Union Army, one who was in the Confederate Army, and one who did two tours during the Revolutionary War.

That is one very impressive family history! I'm sure you're very proud of their military service. SALUTE!!!!!!

FNG · #45 (**permalink**) 02-18-2009, 07:05 PM

101st ABN DIV 73-6
TDY 5th Marines Saigon Evac 75
92D-P
I enlisted a few days after my draft letter came. Figured the war was over, I'll get an education. Boy did I ever. Worst/best 3 years of my life. Thanks to all who served and can read this and especially to those that can't.

tejas · #46 (**permalink**) 02-21-2009, 06:52 PM

Another who missed this thread:
SALUTE to all who have served. Esp nam vets!!!!! Sad situation.
USN airdale '50 to '54
If you want to do something rewarding checkout index

BenO · #47 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 06:56 AM

Vietnam and every campaign through Desert Storm. I was gone from home a lot..

Nana · #48 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 07:03 AM

My son-in-law was over during Desert Storm. I'm so thankful for all of you who have served, and particularly thankful to have you all here so I can say "Thank You!" in person!

Georgew48 · #49 (**permalink**) 02-27-2009, 07:08 AM

Hey John Luciano, belated welcome home (welcome home to all the other Vets also). I served with the Tiger Division also. I spent a year with them out of Tiger Town in the Central Highlands. Was with the 21 TASS (Tum FAC's). Our mission was foward air control for that part of II Corps. Koreans were a great bunch of fighters.

bdn56 · #50 (**permalink**) 02-28-2009, 07:50 AM

The services did not want me in the early 70's. I don't remember most of the decade. I did manage to cut my hair and straighten up a bit.
20 years later I retired from the US Army as a CW3 Aviator.
Who would have ever guessed?

Thanks to all who have sacrificed for this country.