18 January 2009
Here We Go
I am starting on my Masters in Library Science. It will be fun to learn about different types of libraries and management of information systems. That will be helpful in my aviation human factors work.
08 June 2008
Gunfighter Diary Desert Storm 26 Feb 91
26 FEB 91
Secretary of the Navy Washington
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the NAVY CROSS to Lieutenant Colonel Michael M. Kurth United States Marine Corps for services set forth in the following citation: For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 during Operation Desert Storm on 26 February 1991. As the 1st Marine Division attacked north to prevent Iraqui forces from escaping, Lieutenant Colonel Kurth's repeated acts of bravery in providing Close In Fire Support to embattled Marines helped collapse the Iraqui defenses. With visibility nearly impossible due to hundreds of burning oil field fires, and with total disregard for his own safety, he flew under and perilously close to high voltage power lines. Placing himself at grave personal risk to intermittent Iraqui ground and anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Colonel Kurth flew continuously for ten hours during the most intense periods of combat, twice having to control crash his aircraft. Employing a commercially borrowed Forward Looking Infrared Radar and LASER designator, he flew through the Al Burquan oil field fires, between the AH-1W holding pattern and task Force Ripper's forward lines, leading flight after flight of rearmed gunships to requesting units and then remaining dangerously exposed forward of friendly lines as he designated Iraqui armored vehicles for engagement. Lieutenant Colonel Kurth's courage and fearless dedication rallied fellow Marines and resulted in the destruction of as many as 70 Iraqui armored vehicles destroyed that day. By his outstanding display of decisive leadership, unlimited courage in the face of heavy enemy fire, and utmost devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Kurth reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. For the President Secretary of the Navy
What also needs to be placed here is a Distinguished Flying Cross citation for Captain Carl "Mooch" Reynoso. Mooch was actually the Aircraft Commander on this mission. Spot jumped in last minute in the left seat where Nasty was due to fly. Spot and Mooch took their FLIR operator, Crew Chief and Gunner through the hellish conditions and prevented the 1st Marine Division CP from being overrun, among other cited acts. On the ground a LAV commander deployed a screening force during a heated tank battle and was also awarded the Navy Cross. Mooch's recommendation died on SecNavs desk in late 1991, when SecNav refused to approve any awards for Naval Aviators due to the 1991 Tailhook scandal. This made no sense at all, seeing as Mooch is one of the finest marines ever to serve, a Mustang who previously served with distinction in Force Recon. He traded boots for wings and is a natural stick, most at home in the Huey. A helo guy who never went to Tailhook. Maybe someday the award recommendation will resurface and be awarded late, due to "administrative oversight".
Secretary of the Navy Washington
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the NAVY CROSS to Lieutenant Colonel Michael M. Kurth United States Marine Corps for services set forth in the following citation: For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 during Operation Desert Storm on 26 February 1991. As the 1st Marine Division attacked north to prevent Iraqui forces from escaping, Lieutenant Colonel Kurth's repeated acts of bravery in providing Close In Fire Support to embattled Marines helped collapse the Iraqui defenses. With visibility nearly impossible due to hundreds of burning oil field fires, and with total disregard for his own safety, he flew under and perilously close to high voltage power lines. Placing himself at grave personal risk to intermittent Iraqui ground and anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Colonel Kurth flew continuously for ten hours during the most intense periods of combat, twice having to control crash his aircraft. Employing a commercially borrowed Forward Looking Infrared Radar and LASER designator, he flew through the Al Burquan oil field fires, between the AH-1W holding pattern and task Force Ripper's forward lines, leading flight after flight of rearmed gunships to requesting units and then remaining dangerously exposed forward of friendly lines as he designated Iraqui armored vehicles for engagement. Lieutenant Colonel Kurth's courage and fearless dedication rallied fellow Marines and resulted in the destruction of as many as 70 Iraqui armored vehicles destroyed that day. By his outstanding display of decisive leadership, unlimited courage in the face of heavy enemy fire, and utmost devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Kurth reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. For the President Secretary of the Navy
What also needs to be placed here is a Distinguished Flying Cross citation for Captain Carl "Mooch" Reynoso. Mooch was actually the Aircraft Commander on this mission. Spot jumped in last minute in the left seat where Nasty was due to fly. Spot and Mooch took their FLIR operator, Crew Chief and Gunner through the hellish conditions and prevented the 1st Marine Division CP from being overrun, among other cited acts. On the ground a LAV commander deployed a screening force during a heated tank battle and was also awarded the Navy Cross. Mooch's recommendation died on SecNavs desk in late 1991, when SecNav refused to approve any awards for Naval Aviators due to the 1991 Tailhook scandal. This made no sense at all, seeing as Mooch is one of the finest marines ever to serve, a Mustang who previously served with distinction in Force Recon. He traded boots for wings and is a natural stick, most at home in the Huey. A helo guy who never went to Tailhook. Maybe someday the award recommendation will resurface and be awarded late, due to "administrative oversight".
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 15 Jan 91
15 JAN 91
Flew around with PeeWee, Space and Super Dave doing some simple tactics training. No mail for me today, boo hoo. I know it's out there somewhere, Iraquis probably have it or some Air Force REMF.
No action from US/UN or Iraq today. Tomorrow morning, we'll see. I hope to see bombers going overhead.
Flew around with PeeWee, Space and Super Dave doing some simple tactics training. No mail for me today, boo hoo. I know it's out there somewhere, Iraquis probably have it or some Air Force REMF.
No action from US/UN or Iraq today. Tomorrow morning, we'll see. I hope to see bombers going overhead.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 14 Jan 91
Today was a fun day. The khaki flight suits arrived. Normal training day, standard classes on tactics and NBC. It's been raining hard all day, which was fun to watch from indoors.
Found out the flight suits hit supply this morning. Went to supply and signed for all of them about $15,000 for 83 of them.Got them back to the terminal and issued them out. Guys at the Wing did a good job getting them here as quick as they did, and the Flight Suits Limited folks did some quality work on a large order.
Today in the AOM the S-4 said "don't mail home green cammies, and if you have, send to have them returned". After a chorus of "screw you...dream on...no way" and lots of laughter Spot said "don't have them sent back". I guess we'll have to stay here if we don't have woodland cammies to wear home.
Found out the flight suits hit supply this morning. Went to supply and signed for all of them about $15,000 for 83 of them.Got them back to the terminal and issued them out. Guys at the Wing did a good job getting them here as quick as they did, and the Flight Suits Limited folks did some quality work on a large order.
Today in the AOM the S-4 said "don't mail home green cammies, and if you have, send to have them returned". After a chorus of "screw you...dream on...no way" and lots of laughter Spot said "don't have them sent back". I guess we'll have to stay here if we don't have woodland cammies to wear home.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 13 Jan 91
13 JAN 91
Rainy and cool, thunderstorms in the area. Went to squadron for a few hours to check on the flight suits. They're in country somewhere. Found out that they aren't "here" yet. Maybe tomorrow. It was fun watching the rain pour down at the terminal vs watching it from the tent. Went back to the tent and found that my corner was flooded. Most things I had in plastic or sitting up off the floor, but some stuff still got wet. Most ents are treated with water repellent, doesn't seem that ours was, or it was done 20 years ago. Picked up my stuff and drilled some drain holes in the wooden floor. After I dried it. The did some sandbag surgery and moved liner away from wood frame, and that seems to be working. If that doesn't work, I suppose I'll float away tonight on the air mattress.
Getting to and from chow was an adventure, didn't get too muddy.
Rainy and cool, thunderstorms in the area. Went to squadron for a few hours to check on the flight suits. They're in country somewhere. Found out that they aren't "here" yet. Maybe tomorrow. It was fun watching the rain pour down at the terminal vs watching it from the tent. Went back to the tent and found that my corner was flooded. Most things I had in plastic or sitting up off the floor, but some stuff still got wet. Most ents are treated with water repellent, doesn't seem that ours was, or it was done 20 years ago. Picked up my stuff and drilled some drain holes in the wooden floor. After I dried it. The did some sandbag surgery and moved liner away from wood frame, and that seems to be working. If that doesn't work, I suppose I'll float away tonight on the air mattress.
Getting to and from chow was an adventure, didn't get too muddy.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 12 Jan 91
12 JAN 91
Ops normal, nothing out of the ordinary. Flew a photo mission today to film the Cobras shooting. I was having fun until it dawned on me that I had "stolen" the aircraft. Actually got to sign for the bird today as aircraft commander vs copilot. Hadn't signed for one in a while, so I forgot. I remembered as we were transitioning down the runway. Not a big deal, but get to catch flak from the maintenance folks. That qualifies as entertainment for them. Entertained Spot and Irish too, free of charge. Spot nodded and smiled when I got back and Irish said "Consider yourself thrashed." Public humiliation held to a minimum.
It was fun filming the Cobras and flying some form, then we landed and watched from the ground for a while. I flew with Space, his finger has healed.
Spent more time in the afternoon looking for flight equipment b.s. New flight suits are on the way. Reps at the Wing have been extremely helpful, some other folks at Group are perfecting the shoulder shrug. They did get an open purchase request in for the Mike Lites, $12,000.
Ops normal, nothing out of the ordinary. Flew a photo mission today to film the Cobras shooting. I was having fun until it dawned on me that I had "stolen" the aircraft. Actually got to sign for the bird today as aircraft commander vs copilot. Hadn't signed for one in a while, so I forgot. I remembered as we were transitioning down the runway. Not a big deal, but get to catch flak from the maintenance folks. That qualifies as entertainment for them. Entertained Spot and Irish too, free of charge. Spot nodded and smiled when I got back and Irish said "Consider yourself thrashed." Public humiliation held to a minimum.
It was fun filming the Cobras and flying some form, then we landed and watched from the ground for a while. I flew with Space, his finger has healed.
Spent more time in the afternoon looking for flight equipment b.s. New flight suits are on the way. Reps at the Wing have been extremely helpful, some other folks at Group are perfecting the shoulder shrug. They did get an open purchase request in for the Mike Lites, $12,000.
19 May 2008
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 11 Jan 91
11 JAN 91
Ops Normal. We've gone back to 8 hour crews after a week or so of 12 hour crews. The idea was to concentrate heavily on maintenance and inspect as many aircraft as possible, within their 100 hour phase cycle. Now we can fly another 100 hours without a major inspection. It was good to have something to do while I was med down. Our guys worked real hard. Even Spot and Irish agree.
Flew a basic section tactics hop today to start bringing the FNG up to speed. Saw some more guys from flight school, Jeff, Todd and Curt. Anyway, flew with PeeWee, Bean flew with the FNG. Did some low level and practiced hiding behind dust devils and small bushes. Flew by several Marine positions, that was fun. They wave and we get a chance to wave back. I think it helps them to know we're out here with them. I know I like it when I see the jets going overhead, heading north for patrol.
Chames went out and trained for aerial gunner. He has a good attitude and is up to speed on the history of the region. He's always cheerful and it is fun to work with him. Plus he has a good sense of humor.
Time for M&Ms.
Ops Normal. We've gone back to 8 hour crews after a week or so of 12 hour crews. The idea was to concentrate heavily on maintenance and inspect as many aircraft as possible, within their 100 hour phase cycle. Now we can fly another 100 hours without a major inspection. It was good to have something to do while I was med down. Our guys worked real hard. Even Spot and Irish agree.
Flew a basic section tactics hop today to start bringing the FNG up to speed. Saw some more guys from flight school, Jeff, Todd and Curt. Anyway, flew with PeeWee, Bean flew with the FNG. Did some low level and practiced hiding behind dust devils and small bushes. Flew by several Marine positions, that was fun. They wave and we get a chance to wave back. I think it helps them to know we're out here with them. I know I like it when I see the jets going overhead, heading north for patrol.
Chames went out and trained for aerial gunner. He has a good attitude and is up to speed on the history of the region. He's always cheerful and it is fun to work with him. Plus he has a good sense of humor.
Time for M&Ms.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 10 Jan 91
10 JAN 91
Goofed around all day with Trimble GPS receivers, mount kits and antennas. There's finally an interest in this and I'm the only guy in the squadron smart on it, plus the XO. So I spent the day telling guys what it will and won't do. Plus deciding where it should be installed in the Huey. Plus getting more install kits. The units are hand held, but can be hard mounted, and wired with external power and external antennas. That provides better coverage from the constellation and doesn't burn through batteries. Fun stuff.
Leif is here, F.E. OIC for 775. We traded some notes and I tried to steal their binos, no luck. Perry's wife is here on a reporting trip and they'll get to spend a day or two together. He says they weren't going to let them check into the hotel because they didn't have a copy of their marriage license. What a backwards, screwed up country. What if we told them they couldn't observe their prsctices and religions while they were in our country? Sorry, no veils, no mosques. What a bunch of hypocrites. I wish we'd hurry up and figure out how to drill sideways.
Gonna fly some basic tactics tomorrow with PeeWee, Bean and the FNG. Should be fun. Weather is cooling down again. Maintenance push went well, birds are in good shape, especially Hueys. Tent is doing good too.
Goofed around all day with Trimble GPS receivers, mount kits and antennas. There's finally an interest in this and I'm the only guy in the squadron smart on it, plus the XO. So I spent the day telling guys what it will and won't do. Plus deciding where it should be installed in the Huey. Plus getting more install kits. The units are hand held, but can be hard mounted, and wired with external power and external antennas. That provides better coverage from the constellation and doesn't burn through batteries. Fun stuff.
Leif is here, F.E. OIC for 775. We traded some notes and I tried to steal their binos, no luck. Perry's wife is here on a reporting trip and they'll get to spend a day or two together. He says they weren't going to let them check into the hotel because they didn't have a copy of their marriage license. What a backwards, screwed up country. What if we told them they couldn't observe their prsctices and religions while they were in our country? Sorry, no veils, no mosques. What a bunch of hypocrites. I wish we'd hurry up and figure out how to drill sideways.
Gonna fly some basic tactics tomorrow with PeeWee, Bean and the FNG. Should be fun. Weather is cooling down again. Maintenance push went well, birds are in good shape, especially Hueys. Tent is doing good too.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 09 Jan 91
Another day, another chance to flai away with the rhetoric. Listened to the Baker_Aziz conference for a bit, what a bunch of b.s. I'm glad they met and stated their opinions, but why can't it be the U.N. meeting with Hussein. Maybe he's afraid to come out an play. My favorite line was that Iraq was going to attack Israel, hmmm, guess they really are crazy. If they do, they will probably get nuked. Or Israel may have to line up behind Russia or China.
Worked on inventory today. We should get the new flight suits this week. Our MAG has priority. They're also going to buy 600 ML-2s, good for everyone. Now I have to work on long johns and flight jackets, plus binos, more helmets, etc... Hindsight being 20/20, I might have been beter off flying less and getting more stuff while the checkbook is open? Naaaaaah.
Should be read to fly tomorrow!
Worked on inventory today. We should get the new flight suits this week. Our MAG has priority. They're also going to buy 600 ML-2s, good for everyone. Now I have to work on long johns and flight jackets, plus binos, more helmets, etc... Hindsight being 20/20, I might have been beter off flying less and getting more stuff while the checkbook is open? Naaaaaah.
Should be read to fly tomorrow!
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 08 Jan 91
08 JAN 91
Made a few phone calls, wrote some letters, read some mail. Almost done with the meds for the head cold.
Made a few phone calls, wrote some letters, read some mail. Almost done with the meds for the head cold.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 07 Jan 91
07 JAN 91
Med down for a few days, seemed to have found a cold somewhere. Not much going on, provided moral support for shop and did some work on AWS material. Caught up on a few more projects. The Group CO likes the mike lite and forwarded my requisition letter, recommending that MALS open purchase about 4-500 of them. One small step. Teh desert flight suits are in at Wing, and we should get them this week. Next projects are cold weather gear and night vision gyro stabilized binos. Plus about 30 other things. Ahd they're finally interested in installing the GPS receivers, which, thank God, I have nothing to do with.
Med down for a few days, seemed to have found a cold somewhere. Not much going on, provided moral support for shop and did some work on AWS material. Caught up on a few more projects. The Group CO likes the mike lite and forwarded my requisition letter, recommending that MALS open purchase about 4-500 of them. One small step. Teh desert flight suits are in at Wing, and we should get them this week. Next projects are cold weather gear and night vision gyro stabilized binos. Plus about 30 other things. Ahd they're finally interested in installing the GPS receivers, which, thank God, I have nothing to do with.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 04 Jan 91
04 JAN 91
The Reserves continue to show up, an awful lot of old looking guys. The Hueys from New Orleans are here. Everyone assumes that our frag load will be lightened, but I figure they have their own folks to fly around.
I feel sorry for those recalled and having to leave their day job, but I guess that's part of the deal. We have the potential of being involuntarily extended, I read the other day that it is not a "volunteer" service anymore.. They'll let us go when they're ready
The Reserves continue to show up, an awful lot of old looking guys. The Hueys from New Orleans are here. Everyone assumes that our frag load will be lightened, but I figure they have their own folks to fly around.
I feel sorry for those recalled and having to leave their day job, but I guess that's part of the deal. We have the potential of being involuntarily extended, I read the other day that it is not a "volunteer" service anymore.. They'll let us go when they're ready
17 July 2007
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 03 Jan 91
03 Jan 91
Today I flew with PeeWee, Injun and Stoney in Dash 2. We flew Gen Boomer around to check out some grunt ops. Very simple but time consuming flight. Weather was cloudy, windy and cool, with a few sprinkles here and there. Visibility was 3-4 miles. We had fun, no problems. Ate oreos and had some cherry beverage powder in the LZ while we were waiting. I had a real smooth landing coming in, because the wind blew away our burble as we touched down. The Marines in the LZ tossed out a smoke grenade to show us wind direction. I like landing where the smoke swirls through the rotor wash. Gee, the thrills I get.
Chow was good, yaki soba and shrimp fried rice. Back to tent to yak and play paper boy.
Today I flew with PeeWee, Injun and Stoney in Dash 2. We flew Gen Boomer around to check out some grunt ops. Very simple but time consuming flight. Weather was cloudy, windy and cool, with a few sprinkles here and there. Visibility was 3-4 miles. We had fun, no problems. Ate oreos and had some cherry beverage powder in the LZ while we were waiting. I had a real smooth landing coming in, because the wind blew away our burble as we touched down. The Marines in the LZ tossed out a smoke grenade to show us wind direction. I like landing where the smoke swirls through the rotor wash. Gee, the thrills I get.
Chow was good, yaki soba and shrimp fried rice. Back to tent to yak and play paper boy.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 02 Jan 91
02 Jan 91
Tip of the Spear update: There's now a few thousand ground troops in front of us, the jets can be in and out of Baghdad airspace before we reach the border, there must be something...367 is parked further North than us, everyone got desert cammies before us, and cots before us. Maybe we're the noisiest? But we must remain focused on the mission, just don't know if it's completing MCIs or waging war. Micromanagemnet and the zero-defect mentality reign supreme today, plus boring training classes. Thank goodness someone had the briefing room reserved at 1630, or else we'd still be there.
We're starting a pool to see when Spot is going to keel over, we don't think he sleeps at all or leaves the squadron. He probably wonders how he got stuck here with us?
Highlight of the day was turning in sleeping bag and poncho liner to the laundry. After 4 months it was taking on a life of its own. So it's clean and ready for another 4 months now. Now if the other guys would get theirs cleaned.
Becky and Randy sent me a box, and on the side it said pork sausage. Someone had blacked out pork, which was funny because it was wrapped in Christmas paper. They sent some chips, salsa and an electronic game called Paper Boy. It's great. You get points for breaking non-subscriber's windows, hitting dogs and trash cans with the paper, etc...The paper boy gets creamed by skateboarders, cars and light poles. Just like the real thing.
Tip of the Spear update: There's now a few thousand ground troops in front of us, the jets can be in and out of Baghdad airspace before we reach the border, there must be something...367 is parked further North than us, everyone got desert cammies before us, and cots before us. Maybe we're the noisiest? But we must remain focused on the mission, just don't know if it's completing MCIs or waging war. Micromanagemnet and the zero-defect mentality reign supreme today, plus boring training classes. Thank goodness someone had the briefing room reserved at 1630, or else we'd still be there.
We're starting a pool to see when Spot is going to keel over, we don't think he sleeps at all or leaves the squadron. He probably wonders how he got stuck here with us?
Highlight of the day was turning in sleeping bag and poncho liner to the laundry. After 4 months it was taking on a life of its own. So it's clean and ready for another 4 months now. Now if the other guys would get theirs cleaned.
Becky and Randy sent me a box, and on the side it said pork sausage. Someone had blacked out pork, which was funny because it was wrapped in Christmas paper. They sent some chips, salsa and an electronic game called Paper Boy. It's great. You get points for breaking non-subscriber's windows, hitting dogs and trash cans with the paper, etc...The paper boy gets creamed by skateboarders, cars and light poles. Just like the real thing.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 01 Jan 91
01 Jan 91
New Year 91. Let's hope this one turns out better than last, at least from August on. Flew today, carrying some East Coast and Reserve guys. I was in Dash 2, with our FNG. Diamond was Lead, with the Group CO getting some flight time. We flew north to look at some prospective sites. Still lots of talking/planning and little action. They are getting some areas ready to move too, glad I don't have to do the embark plan. Don't know if we'll move or the new forces coming in will go there. We'll be going North eventually, even if it's "grab an MRE and get going". Going to live in the Kuwait City Hilton sounds good.
While we were waiting at one strip we met the Saudi crew and Scottish Flight Nurse of tan aeromedical service. The plane was a nice Gulfstream. There were some Saudi helos here too. The crew was real nice, they let us get up in the cockpit. They fly VIP when they're not doing medevac. And the nurse was real cute!
Got back to base around 1500 and went to chow. Good steaks tonight, with pork and beans minus the pork. Plus pasta salad and a Pepsi.
New Year 91. Let's hope this one turns out better than last, at least from August on. Flew today, carrying some East Coast and Reserve guys. I was in Dash 2, with our FNG. Diamond was Lead, with the Group CO getting some flight time. We flew north to look at some prospective sites. Still lots of talking/planning and little action. They are getting some areas ready to move too, glad I don't have to do the embark plan. Don't know if we'll move or the new forces coming in will go there. We'll be going North eventually, even if it's "grab an MRE and get going". Going to live in the Kuwait City Hilton sounds good.
While we were waiting at one strip we met the Saudi crew and Scottish Flight Nurse of tan aeromedical service. The plane was a nice Gulfstream. There were some Saudi helos here too. The crew was real nice, they let us get up in the cockpit. They fly VIP when they're not doing medevac. And the nurse was real cute!
Got back to base around 1500 and went to chow. Good steaks tonight, with pork and beans minus the pork. Plus pasta salad and a Pepsi.
15 July 2007
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 31 Dec 90
31 Dec 90
Very boring. Classes all day and into the evening. No mail. Lunch at the burger stand with Tom, Grif and Injun. Not much going on. Some reservists are showing up and we're building more permanent structures. Navy Times from Dec 24 has a picture of our airfield on the cover. I can even see my tent, straight down the road from the tower.
Still cold, but warming a bit. Blue Moon tonight, that's got to mean something.
Very boring. Classes all day and into the evening. No mail. Lunch at the burger stand with Tom, Grif and Injun. Not much going on. Some reservists are showing up and we're building more permanent structures. Navy Times from Dec 24 has a picture of our airfield on the cover. I can even see my tent, straight down the road from the tower.
Still cold, but warming a bit. Blue Moon tonight, that's got to mean something.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 30 Dec 90
30 Dec 90
Spent my day off sleeping til 1015, then cleaning up around my rack. Flipped through about ten magazines and went to terminal for about 45 minutes. Had a slice of pizza for lunch, with Mooch. It was a beautiful day today, mid 70s, small breeze. Raised the tent flap for a few hours. Read more magazines. Also, did a Depot level repair on my electric razor. It quit working. I took the case apart, removed the screen, blades, battery cap, batteries, motor, switch and plastic cam. Cleaned all the electrical contacts. The motor wouldn't turn for some reason, so I took it apart and found a contact had come loose at the base of the motor. The thing was so small that I had to use tweezers to put it back in its slot. Made an adjustment to the switch, put it all back together and, voila! It works! Diamond proclaimed me to be a razor electronics genius.
Evening chow sucked, but there was Cokes, M&Ms and Oreos for desert. Listened to some jazz, no good football games, then time for a shower and sleeping bag (with sweats).
Spent my day off sleeping til 1015, then cleaning up around my rack. Flipped through about ten magazines and went to terminal for about 45 minutes. Had a slice of pizza for lunch, with Mooch. It was a beautiful day today, mid 70s, small breeze. Raised the tent flap for a few hours. Read more magazines. Also, did a Depot level repair on my electric razor. It quit working. I took the case apart, removed the screen, blades, battery cap, batteries, motor, switch and plastic cam. Cleaned all the electrical contacts. The motor wouldn't turn for some reason, so I took it apart and found a contact had come loose at the base of the motor. The thing was so small that I had to use tweezers to put it back in its slot. Made an adjustment to the switch, put it all back together and, voila! It works! Diamond proclaimed me to be a razor electronics genius.
Evening chow sucked, but there was Cokes, M&Ms and Oreos for desert. Listened to some jazz, no good football games, then time for a shower and sleeping bag (with sweats).
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 29 Dec 90
29 Dec 90
160176, 5T2, 2.2, 260, PeeWee
Watched tape of the UT-A&M football game, fingers "Hooked" for the Cotton Bowl now.
Flew with PeeWee, followed Injun and Super Dave around. We flew a reaction course where enemy threats were simulated by guys on the ground flashing mirrors at us and Diamond chasing us in another Huey. It was a great drill, helped us practice crew coordination, tactics, SOPs, comm, control, etc... We aslo did some TERF, vs the 500 feet we've been fling for the last 2 months. It makes a big difference as to what we can see and where we can mask. We need more training like this.
Had some chow, finished filling sandbags. Figured out it helps keep the wind from whistling through the tent. Now if they will just do the same thing for shrapnel.
160176, 5T2, 2.2, 260, PeeWee
Watched tape of the UT-A&M football game, fingers "Hooked" for the Cotton Bowl now.
Flew with PeeWee, followed Injun and Super Dave around. We flew a reaction course where enemy threats were simulated by guys on the ground flashing mirrors at us and Diamond chasing us in another Huey. It was a great drill, helped us practice crew coordination, tactics, SOPs, comm, control, etc... We aslo did some TERF, vs the 500 feet we've been fling for the last 2 months. It makes a big difference as to what we can see and where we can mask. We need more training like this.
Had some chow, finished filling sandbags. Figured out it helps keep the wind from whistling through the tent. Now if they will just do the same thing for shrapnel.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 28 Dec 90
28 Dec 90
Slept in. I'm tired and Irish is flying late, so I gave myself a meritorious 2 hour break. Came in and had more Christmas presents, surprise.
Ground turned a Huey all day, then off to chow.
Slept in. I'm tired and Irish is flying late, so I gave myself a meritorious 2 hour break. Came in and had more Christmas presents, surprise.
Ground turned a Huey all day, then off to chow.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 27 Dec 90
27 Dec 90
159204, 5T2, 2.7, 260/370, PeeWee
Got up at 0515 for an 0600 brief. VIP standby, flew down to Bahrain to pick up LtGen Mundy. Got there, got gas and sat near the runway waiting for him for an hour. Meanwhile, one mile away, Bob Hope and Marie Osmond were giving a show. maybe that's where he was? If we'd known he was going to be late we could have seen part of it. The "3 Daves" flew Bob Hope yesterday. They talked to him briefly and may have gotten a picture with him. They said he hopped out and started walking away from the helo while they were trying to shut down real quick and get out to say hi. He walked off a ways, then turned around and walked back towards the helo. The 3 Daves got their cameras out as he walked by them and munbled something like "I'll be right there." He then proceeded back by the tailboom and took a leak on the sand. After he was finished he came back to the group and shook some hands. All of the guys were impressed that he knew where to go for the official "leak check", but then again, he's been riding around on Hueys for 30 years. So that is now their Bob Hope brush with fame story.
Gen Mundy showed up (I don't think he was late, I think we were sent down way early). he was waiting for LtGen Wills to show up, who needed a ride also. Wills is the head aviator in the Corps. So there was a delay and we got to shoot the breeze with Gen Mundy. I asked him how Gen Sullivan was doing and he said "Oh, you know Lancer, he never has a bad day. He's flying Hornets and hoping they need him over here." He said he was boating and having fun on the east coast. He also asked us how the birds were holding up and was glad he could come over and see how they could support us from the FMFLant. He was very nice, and talked with us longer than anyone else has over here. The usually don't have time.
I was tired when we got back and it is cold. Filled some sandbags to warm up after we had to eat outdoors They're improving the chow tents, so they are all pulled down. Hope that doesn't last long. Waaaah! We're damn lucky to have 1) a chow hall and 2) tents to eat the chow in.
159204, 5T2, 2.7, 260/370, PeeWee
Got up at 0515 for an 0600 brief. VIP standby, flew down to Bahrain to pick up LtGen Mundy. Got there, got gas and sat near the runway waiting for him for an hour. Meanwhile, one mile away, Bob Hope and Marie Osmond were giving a show. maybe that's where he was? If we'd known he was going to be late we could have seen part of it. The "3 Daves" flew Bob Hope yesterday. They talked to him briefly and may have gotten a picture with him. They said he hopped out and started walking away from the helo while they were trying to shut down real quick and get out to say hi. He walked off a ways, then turned around and walked back towards the helo. The 3 Daves got their cameras out as he walked by them and munbled something like "I'll be right there." He then proceeded back by the tailboom and took a leak on the sand. After he was finished he came back to the group and shook some hands. All of the guys were impressed that he knew where to go for the official "leak check", but then again, he's been riding around on Hueys for 30 years. So that is now their Bob Hope brush with fame story.
Gen Mundy showed up (I don't think he was late, I think we were sent down way early). he was waiting for LtGen Wills to show up, who needed a ride also. Wills is the head aviator in the Corps. So there was a delay and we got to shoot the breeze with Gen Mundy. I asked him how Gen Sullivan was doing and he said "Oh, you know Lancer, he never has a bad day. He's flying Hornets and hoping they need him over here." He said he was boating and having fun on the east coast. He also asked us how the birds were holding up and was glad he could come over and see how they could support us from the FMFLant. He was very nice, and talked with us longer than anyone else has over here. The usually don't have time.
I was tired when we got back and it is cold. Filled some sandbags to warm up after we had to eat outdoors They're improving the chow tents, so they are all pulled down. Hope that doesn't last long. Waaaah! We're damn lucky to have 1) a chow hall and 2) tents to eat the chow in.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 26 Dec 90
26 Dec 90
159204, 5T2, 4.4, 260, PeeWee
Briefed at 0515 to fly backup VIP aircraft for a 3 star (some procurement branch head from DC). Flew around all day with PeeWee. At the FAARP we spotted some boxed rations, so Nemo and Mooch stole some for our lunch. These were the newer meals, packed in a box for 12 people. Our box had trays of lasagna, fruit cocktail, coffee, peanuts, butter, crackers, Tabasco and even foam cups and napkins. All you need is an oven. At our last stop we had a 2 hour wait at a small airport, so we talked the Saudis into letting us use their oven. They even offered us some pita bread and tea. There was a crew lounge with couches and chairs, so we shared a meal. Some guys made "lasagna burritos".
Got back to base, no mail, went to tent, got a shower, crashed.
159204, 5T2, 4.4, 260, PeeWee
Briefed at 0515 to fly backup VIP aircraft for a 3 star (some procurement branch head from DC). Flew around all day with PeeWee. At the FAARP we spotted some boxed rations, so Nemo and Mooch stole some for our lunch. These were the newer meals, packed in a box for 12 people. Our box had trays of lasagna, fruit cocktail, coffee, peanuts, butter, crackers, Tabasco and even foam cups and napkins. All you need is an oven. At our last stop we had a 2 hour wait at a small airport, so we talked the Saudis into letting us use their oven. They even offered us some pita bread and tea. There was a crew lounge with couches and chairs, so we shared a meal. Some guys made "lasagna burritos".
Got back to base, no mail, went to tent, got a shower, crashed.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 25 Dec 90
25 Dec 90
Merry Christmas. Every day is a holiday in the Corps, so of course we got to work today. Opened presents the night before at 0001 Zulu, got some nice gifts from family. Got a balloon animal kit, maybe I can start a new career.
Told the guys to only work off the downing discrepancies and then to write letters and relax. They worked a shorter, 6 hour shift. Wish we didn't have to work, but 1) what else was there to do and 2) never know what the Iraquis would come up with .
Christmas meal was good, though not as good as Turkey Day. Got stuffed and went back to tent early.
Merry Christmas. Every day is a holiday in the Corps, so of course we got to work today. Opened presents the night before at 0001 Zulu, got some nice gifts from family. Got a balloon animal kit, maybe I can start a new career.
Told the guys to only work off the downing discrepancies and then to write letters and relax. They worked a shorter, 6 hour shift. Wish we didn't have to work, but 1) what else was there to do and 2) never know what the Iraquis would come up with .
Christmas meal was good, though not as good as Turkey Day. Got stuffed and went back to tent early.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 24 Dec 90
24 Dec 90
Training day, I didn't fly but some folks tested. Got to go make an anniversary phone call, it was nice of the squadron to set it up. We got a new Flight Equipment Marine, I asked if he wanted to go along and call his family so they would know he arrived safely. He said he would write.
Got to meet "Major Dad" gerald McRaney and Delta Burke a few days ago, and he autographed some pictures. The looked tired and were swamped with fans. I mentioned the Squadron Wive's visit to the set and he remembered it, and told Delta about it. What a nice guy.
Red and Green M&Ms to celebrate Christmas, then me and Gadget drove the little Toyota over to the camp to make a cal. Stood in line for almost 2 hours, but finally got the call out. Then back to Chez Tent to watch for the Fat Man. Hope the Patriots don't shoot him down.
Training day, I didn't fly but some folks tested. Got to go make an anniversary phone call, it was nice of the squadron to set it up. We got a new Flight Equipment Marine, I asked if he wanted to go along and call his family so they would know he arrived safely. He said he would write.
Got to meet "Major Dad" gerald McRaney and Delta Burke a few days ago, and he autographed some pictures. The looked tired and were swamped with fans. I mentioned the Squadron Wive's visit to the set and he remembered it, and told Delta about it. What a nice guy.
Red and Green M&Ms to celebrate Christmas, then me and Gadget drove the little Toyota over to the camp to make a cal. Stood in line for almost 2 hours, but finally got the call out. Then back to Chez Tent to watch for the Fat Man. Hope the Patriots don't shoot him down.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 23 Dec 90
23 Dec 90
Today was a good day. Slept in til 0930, got up and had a lovely breakfast. Came in to work, wrote a letter, mailed it.
There was a Russian AN-124 here last night that brought some Brit gear in, I guess the Brits leased it for a few weeks. I I had thought 4 months ago that I'd be in the Middle East watching Brits unload a Russian cargo plane, I'd have been declared crazy.
Slow day, a little R&R, got a burger at the Christmas Party. Presents were passed out. Families made custom boxer shorts for everyone, which was a big hit. "Santa Spot" handed them out, he was in a good mood.
We also got to fill sandbags today, to beef up the areas around our tents. I don't know who decides how many sandbags will be enough to protect from a missile attack. I'll be on the floor, so a berm about a foot high should be enough. Anyway, enlisted Marines were real happy about their early Christmas sandbag party. Someone's been watching too many war movies.
Today was a good day. Slept in til 0930, got up and had a lovely breakfast. Came in to work, wrote a letter, mailed it.
There was a Russian AN-124 here last night that brought some Brit gear in, I guess the Brits leased it for a few weeks. I I had thought 4 months ago that I'd be in the Middle East watching Brits unload a Russian cargo plane, I'd have been declared crazy.
Slow day, a little R&R, got a burger at the Christmas Party. Presents were passed out. Families made custom boxer shorts for everyone, which was a big hit. "Santa Spot" handed them out, he was in a good mood.
We also got to fill sandbags today, to beef up the areas around our tents. I don't know who decides how many sandbags will be enough to protect from a missile attack. I'll be on the floor, so a berm about a foot high should be enough. Anyway, enlisted Marines were real happy about their early Christmas sandbag party. Someone's been watching too many war movies.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 22 Dec 90
22 Dec 90
160176, 5T2, 2.8, 313/300, Spot
Slept til 1030, flying goggles tonight. Stopped by MCX to get Cup O Noodles. Also got peanut M&Ms and Dr Pepper. What a great brunch. Spent about 3 hours gathering info for our hop. The mission was great. Fly a recon team to an LZ, and try to evade a British artillery ranging radar. We got help from a Prowler, and also had an RPV relay info to our wingman on whether our LZ was clear or not.
When I saw I was flying with Spot, I thought "crap" for a second, then remembered I've never had a bad hop with him, and I always learn something. And usually better to be flying with him than on his wing, that way you don't get chewed out over the radio. I'm here, wanting to become a better pilot, and he is one of the guys who can help me do that. No one in the squadron has the experience that the has. The things I have issues with are outside the cockpit. He may not realize that he moves at a different speed than everyone else, or uses a different thought process. So how to avoid the wrath of Spot? Be prepared, think ahead.
Got the aircraft preflighted and ready to turn up. Spot hops in and asks me (surprise) to read the checklist. We went out and ran the route during daylight, as a rehearsal, with no Marines on board. That's a requirement and a good idea. Also pilots have to have a minimum of 25 hours to carry pax. I have about 55 now, and Spot has who knows how many. Picked up Recon guys, and ran the team in at 50 feet, on the goggles, evading radar, getting info from RPVs, navving and timing to hit the LZ +- 30 seconds in a 20 year old Huey. Spot asked how everyone's comfort level was during the flight, and the mission went fine. It was challenging, but the planning and crew coordination made it a lot easier. We also had a FLIR and the were using that to look ahead for obstacles. The operator sits in back and relays display info over the intercom. So now I can't complain about flying "combat VIP" all the time, at least for a few days. Used the mike lite, it worked great. I'll have to turn up the heat in supply so they'll buy them for the whole squadron. They'll come in more handy than flight suits, binos, etc...
Spot signed off two syllabus flights for me, Electronic Warfare and Helicopter Night Assault. 3 more flights and I can get my Attack Helicopter Commander checkride. AHC is my next goal, then maybe External Weight IP. The Instrument and Ordnance, to go with the Fam, Terf and FCP that I already have.
Next time we'll do it while coordinating an artillery LZ prep with other attack and transport assets, with a Command and Control radio pack in the back, shooting rockets and carrying an external load, yeah, that's it, with no tail rotor, and Mooooooorgan Fairchild will be my copilot.
After the hop, Shiekeys pizza and a Pepsi for midrats, then hit the rack at 2230.
160176, 5T2, 2.8, 313/300, Spot
Slept til 1030, flying goggles tonight. Stopped by MCX to get Cup O Noodles. Also got peanut M&Ms and Dr Pepper. What a great brunch. Spent about 3 hours gathering info for our hop. The mission was great. Fly a recon team to an LZ, and try to evade a British artillery ranging radar. We got help from a Prowler, and also had an RPV relay info to our wingman on whether our LZ was clear or not.
When I saw I was flying with Spot, I thought "crap" for a second, then remembered I've never had a bad hop with him, and I always learn something. And usually better to be flying with him than on his wing, that way you don't get chewed out over the radio. I'm here, wanting to become a better pilot, and he is one of the guys who can help me do that. No one in the squadron has the experience that the has. The things I have issues with are outside the cockpit. He may not realize that he moves at a different speed than everyone else, or uses a different thought process. So how to avoid the wrath of Spot? Be prepared, think ahead.
Got the aircraft preflighted and ready to turn up. Spot hops in and asks me (surprise) to read the checklist. We went out and ran the route during daylight, as a rehearsal, with no Marines on board. That's a requirement and a good idea. Also pilots have to have a minimum of 25 hours to carry pax. I have about 55 now, and Spot has who knows how many. Picked up Recon guys, and ran the team in at 50 feet, on the goggles, evading radar, getting info from RPVs, navving and timing to hit the LZ +- 30 seconds in a 20 year old Huey. Spot asked how everyone's comfort level was during the flight, and the mission went fine. It was challenging, but the planning and crew coordination made it a lot easier. We also had a FLIR and the were using that to look ahead for obstacles. The operator sits in back and relays display info over the intercom. So now I can't complain about flying "combat VIP" all the time, at least for a few days. Used the mike lite, it worked great. I'll have to turn up the heat in supply so they'll buy them for the whole squadron. They'll come in more handy than flight suits, binos, etc...
Spot signed off two syllabus flights for me, Electronic Warfare and Helicopter Night Assault. 3 more flights and I can get my Attack Helicopter Commander checkride. AHC is my next goal, then maybe External Weight IP. The Instrument and Ordnance, to go with the Fam, Terf and FCP that I already have.
Next time we'll do it while coordinating an artillery LZ prep with other attack and transport assets, with a Command and Control radio pack in the back, shooting rockets and carrying an external load, yeah, that's it, with no tail rotor, and Mooooooorgan Fairchild will be my copilot.
After the hop, Shiekeys pizza and a Pepsi for midrats, then hit the rack at 2230.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 21 Dec 90
21 Dec 90
Turned in laundry, cruised in to work. Spent some time organizing, trying to get my OIC stuff together. Talked to Nemo for a bit. Transferred some info to my new green "brain book". My other one had lasted a year and was pretty beat up. I'm going to try and write more things down, so at least I'll have alist of what I've been blowing off. The problem is, where do I write down the memo that reminds me to look at my memo book, or where I left it?
Bugged some folks about flight suits, mike lites, sewing machines and other BS. Pizza for dinner, and a burger for the movie. Watched 15 minutes of "Honey I shrunk the kids". Picked up laundry, it was clean and all accounted for! Read some of Steel Tiger.
Noticed that M&Ms sent through the mail end up tasting like perfume because of all the stuff sprayed on everyone's letters.
Turned in laundry, cruised in to work. Spent some time organizing, trying to get my OIC stuff together. Talked to Nemo for a bit. Transferred some info to my new green "brain book". My other one had lasted a year and was pretty beat up. I'm going to try and write more things down, so at least I'll have alist of what I've been blowing off. The problem is, where do I write down the memo that reminds me to look at my memo book, or where I left it?
Bugged some folks about flight suits, mike lites, sewing machines and other BS. Pizza for dinner, and a burger for the movie. Watched 15 minutes of "Honey I shrunk the kids". Picked up laundry, it was clean and all accounted for! Read some of Steel Tiger.
Noticed that M&Ms sent through the mail end up tasting like perfume because of all the stuff sprayed on everyone's letters.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 20 Dec 90
20 Dec 90
169179, 5T2, 2.5, 260, PeeWee
Flew and did admin work today. They're bringing in some gear, satellite dish. etc...that looks suspiciously like the parts to a phone center. Lots of civilians around it. Gee, if they get paid by the job and not by the hour, maybe I'll be calling family from here by Christmas.
Heard Gerald McRaney will be coming over, it would be cool if we got to fly him.
169179, 5T2, 2.5, 260, PeeWee
Flew and did admin work today. They're bringing in some gear, satellite dish. etc...that looks suspiciously like the parts to a phone center. Lots of civilians around it. Gee, if they get paid by the job and not by the hour, maybe I'll be calling family from here by Christmas.
Heard Gerald McRaney will be coming over, it would be cool if we got to fly him.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 19 Dec 90
19 Dec 90
Aiieeee! I need $79,999,564.99? Some terrorists have abducted Frostee the inflatable snowman! It's so terrible! Next they'll send me a picture of them torturing him with a sunlamp and letting air out little by little. Well, soon they'll learn that crime does pay.
Nothing interesting today, worked on a turnove folder and went to supply to pick up some gear. We got more GPS receivers, and better yet, some external antennas and mounting kits. These kits will allow us to put the things permanently in the aircraft, and the external antennas will give us much better reception. Right now we can only get the satellites that are in front of the aircraft because the receiver sits on the glareshield. With an antenna on top of the bird, it will see everything that's more than a few degrees above the horizon. I like the GPS, hopefully now everyone will get interested in it.
Our current NAV system, the LORAN, uses ground based transmitters. The Iraquis would never try to blow those up, would they? if they did, we'd be back to the map. They can't mess with the GPS. Hmmm?
As Doonesbury says, we don't have a morale problem here, we have an "attitude" problem.
Aiieeee! I need $79,999,564.99? Some terrorists have abducted Frostee the inflatable snowman! It's so terrible! Next they'll send me a picture of them torturing him with a sunlamp and letting air out little by little. Well, soon they'll learn that crime does pay.
Nothing interesting today, worked on a turnove folder and went to supply to pick up some gear. We got more GPS receivers, and better yet, some external antennas and mounting kits. These kits will allow us to put the things permanently in the aircraft, and the external antennas will give us much better reception. Right now we can only get the satellites that are in front of the aircraft because the receiver sits on the glareshield. With an antenna on top of the bird, it will see everything that's more than a few degrees above the horizon. I like the GPS, hopefully now everyone will get interested in it.
Our current NAV system, the LORAN, uses ground based transmitters. The Iraquis would never try to blow those up, would they? if they did, we'd be back to the map. They can't mess with the GPS. Hmmm?
As Doonesbury says, we don't have a morale problem here, we have an "attitude" problem.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 18 Dec 90
18 Dec 90
Got some mail today, it comes in bunches. A week without, then 10 letters.
Got letters from Paul and Barry, high school buds.
Got some mail today, it comes in bunches. A week without, then 10 letters.
Got letters from Paul and Barry, high school buds.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 16 Dec 90
16 Dec 90
Went in to work this morning, primarily to look for mail. Fixed covers on the helos while I was in, several had blown loose. Timing was good, as Spot walked in after Grif and I finished, so no tirades. It felt good to be out on the flight line, in the sun, doing something easy. Walked back to the tent, got a soda and filled out some Christmas cards. The should arrive sometime next year, if I'm lucky. Now I'm all set for Christmas, just waiting for Santa and the elves.
Went in to work this morning, primarily to look for mail. Fixed covers on the helos while I was in, several had blown loose. Timing was good, as Spot walked in after Grif and I finished, so no tirades. It felt good to be out on the flight line, in the sun, doing something easy. Walked back to the tent, got a soda and filled out some Christmas cards. The should arrive sometime next year, if I'm lucky. Now I'm all set for Christmas, just waiting for Santa and the elves.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 15 Dec 90
15 Dec 90
159204, 5T2, 2.5, 260, PeeWee
Flew early with PeeWee, briefed at 0445. We took a LASER team down to a range so the Cobras could shoot some LASER guided missiles.
Starting to think we'll be here for a while, maybe they'll start rotating people and I'll go back to 303 to be an instructor. I can dream right? I also dream that the East Coast/5th MEB Marines are really our replacements, and as soon as they get set up and nothing is going on, they'll send us home. Other countries too. I don't think the US will carry this burden all by themselves for an extended period. We're obviously here first because we have the airlift and sealift capability. I don't want to sit here for over a year while the rest of the world sits on its fat ass.
All in all, though, I am really glad that I am not writing this from a foxhole. Things could be much, much worse.
159204, 5T2, 2.5, 260, PeeWee
Flew early with PeeWee, briefed at 0445. We took a LASER team down to a range so the Cobras could shoot some LASER guided missiles.
Starting to think we'll be here for a while, maybe they'll start rotating people and I'll go back to 303 to be an instructor. I can dream right? I also dream that the East Coast/5th MEB Marines are really our replacements, and as soon as they get set up and nothing is going on, they'll send us home. Other countries too. I don't think the US will carry this burden all by themselves for an extended period. We're obviously here first because we have the airlift and sealift capability. I don't want to sit here for over a year while the rest of the world sits on its fat ass.
All in all, though, I am really glad that I am not writing this from a foxhole. Things could be much, much worse.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 14 Dec 90
14 Dec 90
It appears Sgt Lee was not selected by the board. Maybe they'll have another one soon and he'll get another shot. He is definitely deserving.
There are WMs here now, so we really are the "tip of the spear".
Listening to reporters and politicians on the radio only has me pissed off. "We are moving dangerously closer to conflict in the Gulf...blah blah blah...give the sanctions time...blah blah blah." What, they didn't think tensions were high and it was dangerous the first two weeks we were here? The President is the guy I have to have the most faith in, at least he's consistent about doing "whatever is necessary" to deter aggression. It's hard to stay sharp and realize that "whatever is necessary" means hurry up and wait. But that is the Marine motto isn't it? Bush couls have pushed one of several buttons in August, so I give him credit for pushing the "hurry up and wait" button vs the nuke or frontal assault button. Let the build up continue.
It appears Sgt Lee was not selected by the board. Maybe they'll have another one soon and he'll get another shot. He is definitely deserving.
There are WMs here now, so we really are the "tip of the spear".
Listening to reporters and politicians on the radio only has me pissed off. "We are moving dangerously closer to conflict in the Gulf...blah blah blah...give the sanctions time...blah blah blah." What, they didn't think tensions were high and it was dangerous the first two weeks we were here? The President is the guy I have to have the most faith in, at least he's consistent about doing "whatever is necessary" to deter aggression. It's hard to stay sharp and realize that "whatever is necessary" means hurry up and wait. But that is the Marine motto isn't it? Bush couls have pushed one of several buttons in August, so I give him credit for pushing the "hurry up and wait" button vs the nuke or frontal assault button. Let the build up continue.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 13 Dec 90
13 Dec 90
The Group selection board is still meeting. Whoever they select is 99% guaranteed SSgt, as there are only 3 groups. Maybe we'll even send 2 guys?
Haven't flown this week, but keeping up with the paperwork for the past few days has been fun. It was one of the most gratifying things that I have done since I've been here. Regardless of who gets selected, that person has to feel great about being recognized as their Squadron's top NCO. All this stuff brought back memories of how good it felt to be meritoriously promoted to every enlisted rank that I held. My favorite was being a Cpl at 29 Palms. We had a formation after the days flights were over and the Skipper had a surprise for me, my promotion to Sgt. I wasn't expecting to be actually promoted until we returned to El Toro. That was a fun ride back to camp in the 6 ton.
Got a radio, now we'll be able to hear how soon we'll be coming home.
The Group selection board is still meeting. Whoever they select is 99% guaranteed SSgt, as there are only 3 groups. Maybe we'll even send 2 guys?
Haven't flown this week, but keeping up with the paperwork for the past few days has been fun. It was one of the most gratifying things that I have done since I've been here. Regardless of who gets selected, that person has to feel great about being recognized as their Squadron's top NCO. All this stuff brought back memories of how good it felt to be meritoriously promoted to every enlisted rank that I held. My favorite was being a Cpl at 29 Palms. We had a formation after the days flights were over and the Skipper had a surprise for me, my promotion to Sgt. I wasn't expecting to be actually promoted until we returned to El Toro. That was a fun ride back to camp in the 6 ton.
Got a radio, now we'll be able to hear how soon we'll be coming home.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 12 Dec 90
12 Dec 90
Chased Sgt Lee's endorsement around all day and finally got the smooth copy done at 2000. It highlights his military leadership skills and technical expertise. He is filling the top SNCO billet in this field, outside of his primary MOS, and doing a great job. He's filled several SNCO billets, as far back as 1985. He deserves the recognition and promotion.
The WIng gets 4 quotas to SSgt, plus one extra (alternate). The General will probably promote 16 and have one extra "hip pocket" promotion for a deserving Marine. It makes sense. A Wing CG can promote guys to Cpl and Sgt, which is how I got promoted, so why can't a MEF CG promote guys to SSgt and GySgt? I am really impressed with this move on the Marine Corps' part. I hope they do it regularly.
Chased Sgt Lee's endorsement around all day and finally got the smooth copy done at 2000. It highlights his military leadership skills and technical expertise. He is filling the top SNCO billet in this field, outside of his primary MOS, and doing a great job. He's filled several SNCO billets, as far back as 1985. He deserves the recognition and promotion.
The WIng gets 4 quotas to SSgt, plus one extra (alternate). The General will probably promote 16 and have one extra "hip pocket" promotion for a deserving Marine. It makes sense. A Wing CG can promote guys to Cpl and Sgt, which is how I got promoted, so why can't a MEF CG promote guys to SSgt and GySgt? I am really impressed with this move on the Marine Corps' part. I hope they do it regularly.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 11 Dec 90
11 Dec 90
Spent all day watching my Marines running around making covers for the guns, engine inlets, blades, plus other stuff. Working on promotion recommendations.
Irish confirmed that Sgt Lee would be our candidate for the promotion board at Group. So I spent all evening reviewing his record book and drawing up a draft of the CO's endorsement.
Spent all day watching my Marines running around making covers for the guns, engine inlets, blades, plus other stuff. Working on promotion recommendations.
Irish confirmed that Sgt Lee would be our candidate for the promotion board at Group. So I spent all evening reviewing his record book and drawing up a draft of the CO's endorsement.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 10 Dec 90
10 Dec 90
Reading About Face. Good, but no revelations so far.
We had our normal classes on Monday ALL DAMN DAY, and I had a headache by the time it was all said and done.
Good news. The Marine Corps has approved 16 quotas for meritorious promotion to SSgt within I MEF, and 6 to GySgt. Basically Gen Boomer gets to promote some guys and recognize exceptional performers.
Reading About Face. Good, but no revelations so far.
We had our normal classes on Monday ALL DAMN DAY, and I had a headache by the time it was all said and done.
Good news. The Marine Corps has approved 16 quotas for meritorious promotion to SSgt within I MEF, and 6 to GySgt. Basically Gen Boomer gets to promote some guys and recognize exceptional performers.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 09 Dec 90
09 Dec 90
Where has the year gone? Just yesterday I was gone to Yuma for 5 weeks for Eagle Claw...and 29 Palms for 5 weeks for a CAX...and Whidbey island for 2 weeks...and Saudi for 4 months...hmmm, noticing a trend here. But got some great air-to-air training, TERF Instructor qual and desert training. Might come in handy.
I like watching all of the big planes that go in and out of the airfield. Right now there are 4 C-130s, 2 C-141s and 1 C-5 unloading gear. Plus add in abot 90 helicopters. I esp like the sound of the C-5 at night, when the big turbofans spool up.
Where has the year gone? Just yesterday I was gone to Yuma for 5 weeks for Eagle Claw...and 29 Palms for 5 weeks for a CAX...and Whidbey island for 2 weeks...and Saudi for 4 months...hmmm, noticing a trend here. But got some great air-to-air training, TERF Instructor qual and desert training. Might come in handy.
I like watching all of the big planes that go in and out of the airfield. Right now there are 4 C-130s, 2 C-141s and 1 C-5 unloading gear. Plus add in abot 90 helicopters. I esp like the sound of the C-5 at night, when the big turbofans spool up.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 08. Dec 90
08 Dec 90
Spot was in a bad mood today, therefore everyone was else was in a bad mood
Spot was in a bad mood today, therefore everyone was else was in a bad mood
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 07 Dec 90
07 Dec 90
Sent out Desert Shield Christmas samplers to family. Each pack contains
1 MRE fruitcake, delicious!
1 bag of sand
1 packet of MRE Holiday punch, yum!
1 tiny bottle of Tabasco (Gold over here)
1 pouch of MRE Christmas cocoa
and a card.
Made some phone calls.
Sent out Desert Shield Christmas samplers to family. Each pack contains
1 MRE fruitcake, delicious!
1 bag of sand
1 packet of MRE Holiday punch, yum!
1 tiny bottle of Tabasco (Gold over here)
1 pouch of MRE Christmas cocoa
and a card.
Made some phone calls.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 06 Dec 90
06 Dec 90
160438, 5T2, 0.7, 260, Shiner
Flew with Shiner, short hop.
160438, 5T2, 0.7, 260, Shiner
Flew with Shiner, short hop.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 05 Dec 90
05 Dec 90
160179, 5T2, 2.5, 260, PeeWee
Today PeeWee and I flew MGen Hopkins around for about an hour. He was grumpy.
When we got back, time to bump up the warfighting stance and contribute to the Combined Federal Campaign. I gave some money to MDA and Canine Companions.
Hey, Texas is number 3 in the Nation. Let's hope they "Hook" Miami. How about those Cowboys? That would be a miracle.
Mail call, got M&Ms and a Miller Genuine Draft. Poured it out...or maybe I gave it to Injun, yea, that sounds right. Also got some fudge, a letter, deodorant and foot powder from my father. My sister sent Stanley Jordan and ZZ Top tapes.
160179, 5T2, 2.5, 260, PeeWee
Today PeeWee and I flew MGen Hopkins around for about an hour. He was grumpy.
When we got back, time to bump up the warfighting stance and contribute to the Combined Federal Campaign. I gave some money to MDA and Canine Companions.
Hey, Texas is number 3 in the Nation. Let's hope they "Hook" Miami. How about those Cowboys? That would be a miracle.
Mail call, got M&Ms and a Miller Genuine Draft. Poured it out...or maybe I gave it to Injun, yea, that sounds right. Also got some fudge, a letter, deodorant and foot powder from my father. My sister sent Stanley Jordan and ZZ Top tapes.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 04 Dec 90
04 Dec 90
160624, 5T2, 1.0, 260, Injun
Slept late and rolled into the Ready Room for an 1100 brief. We were scheduled to go out to the hospital ship USS Comfort for Deck Landing Qualifications. Two Hueys, I was the copilot on Dash-2. Jim was the signer, and Egg Fu went along also to get a few bounces. We had to pick up a few patients at the Marine Hospital to transfer out to the ship, so we went to their LZ first. 2 guys were ambulatory, one guy was on a litter. We also took Space out so they could x-ray his finger.
We got to the ship late because there was a delay in the LZ. I flew the first landing aboard, then jumped out with Diamond. We were on a mission to find the ship's store and associated gedunk. Oh, and to look for nurses! Didn't see many nurses, they must have been warned away. The store was out of souvenirs, except for stickers, but they did have peanut M&Ms.
We found a tour guide and went to get a Coke. The ship is a converted oil tanker? The passageways and ladderwells were very wide, clean and well lit, unlike most Navy ships I've been on. There were no kneeknockers that you had to step through, which makes sense as they would be rolling hospital beds around. Everyone was in a good mood and finally found the nurses, who were all winking at me, esp the cute ones. Diamond bought a couple of hats from the crew and it was time to go up to the flight deck to get some more bounces.
As we were getting ready to hotseat, a Navy helo showed up, with the crew claiming to have a mechanical problem where they needed to shut down. All of these ships in the Gulf and the Comfort was where they needed to land and clog the deck? Right! So we gassed up, I hopped in the front, we grabbed Doc and called it a day. I flew all the way back. It was fun to be back on a ship again. I took a few pictures, but the film didn't fully rewind, so some of the roll will be ruined. I'm sure they would have been Pulitzer Prize winners.
Baghdad Betty reports that while we are gone, our wives are dating actors, like Tom Selleck, Tom Cruise and Bart Simpson?! What a hoot! That had us rolling on the floor.
160624, 5T2, 1.0, 260, Injun
Slept late and rolled into the Ready Room for an 1100 brief. We were scheduled to go out to the hospital ship USS Comfort for Deck Landing Qualifications. Two Hueys, I was the copilot on Dash-2. Jim was the signer, and Egg Fu went along also to get a few bounces. We had to pick up a few patients at the Marine Hospital to transfer out to the ship, so we went to their LZ first. 2 guys were ambulatory, one guy was on a litter. We also took Space out so they could x-ray his finger.
We got to the ship late because there was a delay in the LZ. I flew the first landing aboard, then jumped out with Diamond. We were on a mission to find the ship's store and associated gedunk. Oh, and to look for nurses! Didn't see many nurses, they must have been warned away. The store was out of souvenirs, except for stickers, but they did have peanut M&Ms.
We found a tour guide and went to get a Coke. The ship is a converted oil tanker? The passageways and ladderwells were very wide, clean and well lit, unlike most Navy ships I've been on. There were no kneeknockers that you had to step through, which makes sense as they would be rolling hospital beds around. Everyone was in a good mood and finally found the nurses, who were all winking at me, esp the cute ones. Diamond bought a couple of hats from the crew and it was time to go up to the flight deck to get some more bounces.
As we were getting ready to hotseat, a Navy helo showed up, with the crew claiming to have a mechanical problem where they needed to shut down. All of these ships in the Gulf and the Comfort was where they needed to land and clog the deck? Right! So we gassed up, I hopped in the front, we grabbed Doc and called it a day. I flew all the way back. It was fun to be back on a ship again. I took a few pictures, but the film didn't fully rewind, so some of the roll will be ruined. I'm sure they would have been Pulitzer Prize winners.
Baghdad Betty reports that while we are gone, our wives are dating actors, like Tom Selleck, Tom Cruise and Bart Simpson?! What a hoot! That had us rolling on the floor.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 03 Dec 90
03 Dec 90
It's been boring here lately, but I guess I like it that way. The alternative probably isn't too nice.
Today was a training day. Most of the classes were stupid, but at least they managed to keep us tied up all day too. We had to hurry through lunch, which consisted of a Cup O Noodles. Good news, no shots.
Sgt Lee got his Navy Achievement Medal today. He really deserved it. It is nice to see someone be recognized and decorated because of their hard work. 3 other Flight Equipment Marines have Commanding General Cert Comms in work, and my last guy will get a NAM eventually for his work with the AR-5 gas masks. And Cpl Chames got a Meritorious Mast for being on guard duty when he first got here, part of the airfield security force. Cpl Samuels ("Bull") is getting a Letter of Appreciation form the Camp Guard he was on for 3 months. There's something about this group, they are really motivating 100 percent of the time. Cpl Chames also got qualified as a Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI), which has him excited because he gets to inspect and sign off work now.
It's hard to be motivated to do trivial things when some lunatic can drive up with a truck bomb at any moment, but also too stressful to spend every moment being paranoid. Problem is, in garrison, everyday someone comes up with more idiotic BS as time fillers. Idle minds, I suppose. I don't see how you can be focused on a warfighting stance while doing MCIs, putting guys on weight control, etc...It's time to focus one or the other.
This may turn out to be the new Korea, Okinawa, Germany or Philippines, where we maintain a full time presence and enforcing sanctions. I do feel better that additional forces are being sent over. We should be letting the sanctions work while keeping enough forces here to deter the Iraqui threat. To me, that makes sense. At least Saudi and Kuwait are contributing financially, vs the countries that have taken US money over the years. Too bad there will always be a world market for Middle East oil, I would hope that someday there will be alternatives. Right now too much money and power is controlled by folks who are bent on evil deeds, and are more than willing to use evil means to maintain that control. Meanwhile, 4-6 months to see if sanctions work. A drop in the bucket of time. It took 4-5 years to get Europe back from Hitler, and 40 to get the rest of the Warsaw Pact. And that was right in the middle of everyone's back yard. Maybe Russia will turn up some heat, although their agreement on sanctions is certainly enough at this moment. It would be nice if the citizens of Iraq realized the need for change and took matters into their own control.
One guy wrote us "Don't do nothing dumb". Excellent advice. He also sent a recipe for homemade hooch, which no one has dared to make yet. Maybe later.
It's been boring here lately, but I guess I like it that way. The alternative probably isn't too nice.
Today was a training day. Most of the classes were stupid, but at least they managed to keep us tied up all day too. We had to hurry through lunch, which consisted of a Cup O Noodles. Good news, no shots.
Sgt Lee got his Navy Achievement Medal today. He really deserved it. It is nice to see someone be recognized and decorated because of their hard work. 3 other Flight Equipment Marines have Commanding General Cert Comms in work, and my last guy will get a NAM eventually for his work with the AR-5 gas masks. And Cpl Chames got a Meritorious Mast for being on guard duty when he first got here, part of the airfield security force. Cpl Samuels ("Bull") is getting a Letter of Appreciation form the Camp Guard he was on for 3 months. There's something about this group, they are really motivating 100 percent of the time. Cpl Chames also got qualified as a Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI), which has him excited because he gets to inspect and sign off work now.
It's hard to be motivated to do trivial things when some lunatic can drive up with a truck bomb at any moment, but also too stressful to spend every moment being paranoid. Problem is, in garrison, everyday someone comes up with more idiotic BS as time fillers. Idle minds, I suppose. I don't see how you can be focused on a warfighting stance while doing MCIs, putting guys on weight control, etc...It's time to focus one or the other.
This may turn out to be the new Korea, Okinawa, Germany or Philippines, where we maintain a full time presence and enforcing sanctions. I do feel better that additional forces are being sent over. We should be letting the sanctions work while keeping enough forces here to deter the Iraqui threat. To me, that makes sense. At least Saudi and Kuwait are contributing financially, vs the countries that have taken US money over the years. Too bad there will always be a world market for Middle East oil, I would hope that someday there will be alternatives. Right now too much money and power is controlled by folks who are bent on evil deeds, and are more than willing to use evil means to maintain that control. Meanwhile, 4-6 months to see if sanctions work. A drop in the bucket of time. It took 4-5 years to get Europe back from Hitler, and 40 to get the rest of the Warsaw Pact. And that was right in the middle of everyone's back yard. Maybe Russia will turn up some heat, although their agreement on sanctions is certainly enough at this moment. It would be nice if the citizens of Iraq realized the need for change and took matters into their own control.
One guy wrote us "Don't do nothing dumb". Excellent advice. He also sent a recipe for homemade hooch, which no one has dared to make yet. Maybe later.
14 July 2007
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 02 Dec 90
02 Dec 90
Spent most of the day goofing off. A lovely breakfast of eggs, oatmeal, pineapple and juice, I was only somewhat nauseous when I left the chow tent.Back to the tent, read a book for a while, then went to watch the boxing matches. They were fun to watch, everyone seemed to enjoy them. Cpl Sanson boxed and TKO'd his opponent in the first round. Everyone wore headgear, big gloves, etc but they were still wearing each other out. That was the most fun I've seen guys having since I've been here. Wheat and Dutch spent a lot of time training these guys and working with the MWR folks to get a real boxing ring. The matches were mainly USMC vs Seabees, but there were a few USN vs USN bouts too.
Back to the tent and listened to the radio on the "porch" for a while, with Injun, Grif, PeeWee and Road Kill. Dinner was good, beef? stew. Camel, maybe?
The birds are holding up pretty well, the only hold up is parts. We've been flying some TERF routes and using the GPS, which is funny because there is very little terrain here and the GPS constellation is only in view for a few hours a day. The LORAN has been working fine though, plus there's always the good old chart. We have one chart that has absolutely no terrain features, contour lines or anything else depicted on it, just brown dots to depict the featureless, flat sand. We drew a TERF route on it as a joke and posted it on the wall in the Ready Room. We'll never get lost, though, because there is always someone willing to tell you where to go.
Haven't requested any more GPS receivers yet. Government just put up another NAVSTAR last week, so coverage should be improving. Paper said 12 of the proposed 24 have been launched so far, to be complete in 1992.
Had a CH-53E burn up. They had a problem, landed, put out a small fire, but it flared and burnt the helo to the ground. Everyone is OK, no injuries. Talk about snake bite...the same squadron had a taxi mishap and crashed another one. They can't have many left. Only one person injured out of all of these.
Spent most of the day goofing off. A lovely breakfast of eggs, oatmeal, pineapple and juice, I was only somewhat nauseous when I left the chow tent.Back to the tent, read a book for a while, then went to watch the boxing matches. They were fun to watch, everyone seemed to enjoy them. Cpl Sanson boxed and TKO'd his opponent in the first round. Everyone wore headgear, big gloves, etc but they were still wearing each other out. That was the most fun I've seen guys having since I've been here. Wheat and Dutch spent a lot of time training these guys and working with the MWR folks to get a real boxing ring. The matches were mainly USMC vs Seabees, but there were a few USN vs USN bouts too.
Back to the tent and listened to the radio on the "porch" for a while, with Injun, Grif, PeeWee and Road Kill. Dinner was good, beef? stew. Camel, maybe?
The birds are holding up pretty well, the only hold up is parts. We've been flying some TERF routes and using the GPS, which is funny because there is very little terrain here and the GPS constellation is only in view for a few hours a day. The LORAN has been working fine though, plus there's always the good old chart. We have one chart that has absolutely no terrain features, contour lines or anything else depicted on it, just brown dots to depict the featureless, flat sand. We drew a TERF route on it as a joke and posted it on the wall in the Ready Room. We'll never get lost, though, because there is always someone willing to tell you where to go.
Haven't requested any more GPS receivers yet. Government just put up another NAVSTAR last week, so coverage should be improving. Paper said 12 of the proposed 24 have been launched so far, to be complete in 1992.
Had a CH-53E burn up. They had a problem, landed, put out a small fire, but it flared and burnt the helo to the ground. Everyone is OK, no injuries. Talk about snake bite...the same squadron had a taxi mishap and crashed another one. They can't have many left. Only one person injured out of all of these.
11 July 2006
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 01 Dec 90
01 DEC 90
160179, 5T2, 1.2, 313, Bean
0230 brief with Shiner, Bean and Mooch. Our mission was a recon team extract about 30 miles north of the field. They were training with the Brits. Full moon, on the goggles. It was a great night to fly, with a bit of a chill in the air. Got close to the LZ and the team signalled us, we grabbed them and took them to their base camp. landed in a tight zone, one of the best missions we've done so far. Two Hueys droping out of the dark sky at 0400 to pick up 10 cold and hungry grunts, and take them back to hot chow and warm bunks.
Landed back at the base at 0500, had some chow and hung around squadron til 1200. Back to Chez Tent for letter writing. Mailed letters and MRE fruitcakes to some family, they're in fo a delicious treat! Took a nap, aka MORP (Marine Officer Rest Period). Evening chow was pretty good. Walked by the movie on the way back to the tent and watched 30 minutes of Full Metal Jacket. I've seen it before, the fist hour is a great representation of Boot Camp silliness, the second hour more Hollywood influence and stereotyping.
160179, 5T2, 1.2, 313, Bean
0230 brief with Shiner, Bean and Mooch. Our mission was a recon team extract about 30 miles north of the field. They were training with the Brits. Full moon, on the goggles. It was a great night to fly, with a bit of a chill in the air. Got close to the LZ and the team signalled us, we grabbed them and took them to their base camp. landed in a tight zone, one of the best missions we've done so far. Two Hueys droping out of the dark sky at 0400 to pick up 10 cold and hungry grunts, and take them back to hot chow and warm bunks.
Landed back at the base at 0500, had some chow and hung around squadron til 1200. Back to Chez Tent for letter writing. Mailed letters and MRE fruitcakes to some family, they're in fo a delicious treat! Took a nap, aka MORP (Marine Officer Rest Period). Evening chow was pretty good. Walked by the movie on the way back to the tent and watched 30 minutes of Full Metal Jacket. I've seen it before, the fist hour is a great representation of Boot Camp silliness, the second hour more Hollywood influence and stereotyping.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 30 Nov 90
30 NOV 90
Worked on letter for tan flight suits. Got it approved by Irish and Spot. Trying to buy some now from a private vendor, as it appears supply will never get any.
Worked on letter for tan flight suits. Got it approved by Irish and Spot. Trying to buy some now from a private vendor, as it appears supply will never get any.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 29 Nov 90
29 NOV 90
Squadron on Alert because of upcoming UN Security Council vote. Cancelled training and had crews and aircraft standing by. Got to catch up on some reading, Cardinal of the Kremlin.
Squadron on Alert because of upcoming UN Security Council vote. Cancelled training and had crews and aircraft standing by. Got to catch up on some reading, Cardinal of the Kremlin.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 28 Nov 90
28 NOV 90
Sunrise was awesome, hazy with lots of clouds. Actually sprinkled last night. Had a laid back morning at the squadron, did some work, read part of a book. Cup O noodles for lunch and a Dr Peper. Drew up an open purchase request for tan flight suits, then went out to the Aviation Supply ship at Jubail to turn in NVGs for maintenance.
The ship was neat. It was an old ship that the USMC paid for, and converted to carry container full of supply gear. Also a floating repair ship. They can cram everything on board or unload and work at the docks, or leave some gear at the dock and do repairs underway. The section that repairs NVGs is in the Avionis section. I wanted to see how they do the repairs and ask some questions. The Marines working there were great. We also found out that our shop will receive a NVG test set so we can test NVGs before each mission. Normally, we put them on and if we can see, we fly. The best thing that the test set checks for is for alignment. If a tube is out of alignment, the eyes try to compensate and this creates blind spots.
About a week ago I had seen an article in Rotor and Wing on the Coast Guard's NVGs; they used a piece of equipment called an "assessor" before each mission to check gogles before each hop. I wondered if we could get something like that. Turns out we could.
Talked about some other Flight Equipment stuff, then had chow on the mess deck. it was good. As we left, we ogled the nurses going onto the hospital ship Mercy. Interesting how they got to wear civvies and not carry gas masks, only 7 miles away from our camp, where we still carry gas masks to the shower and wear uniforms to the outdoor movie.
Sunrise was awesome, hazy with lots of clouds. Actually sprinkled last night. Had a laid back morning at the squadron, did some work, read part of a book. Cup O noodles for lunch and a Dr Peper. Drew up an open purchase request for tan flight suits, then went out to the Aviation Supply ship at Jubail to turn in NVGs for maintenance.
The ship was neat. It was an old ship that the USMC paid for, and converted to carry container full of supply gear. Also a floating repair ship. They can cram everything on board or unload and work at the docks, or leave some gear at the dock and do repairs underway. The section that repairs NVGs is in the Avionis section. I wanted to see how they do the repairs and ask some questions. The Marines working there were great. We also found out that our shop will receive a NVG test set so we can test NVGs before each mission. Normally, we put them on and if we can see, we fly. The best thing that the test set checks for is for alignment. If a tube is out of alignment, the eyes try to compensate and this creates blind spots.
About a week ago I had seen an article in Rotor and Wing on the Coast Guard's NVGs; they used a piece of equipment called an "assessor" before each mission to check gogles before each hop. I wondered if we could get something like that. Turns out we could.
Talked about some other Flight Equipment stuff, then had chow on the mess deck. it was good. As we left, we ogled the nurses going onto the hospital ship Mercy. Interesting how they got to wear civvies and not carry gas masks, only 7 miles away from our camp, where we still carry gas masks to the shower and wear uniforms to the outdoor movie.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 27 Nov 90
27 NOV 90
Semi busy at the squdron. Didn't fly today. We had a reaction drill, sinulated attack on the airfield. Walked around in my flak jacket and helmet all morning, then off to noon chow. Read a book Pillars of the Earth, about England in the 1100s. It was about the church, the state and master builders. It was good but got predictable after a while...bad knight, monk and king triumph over good knight, monk and king, back and forth. It felt good to read and not worry about anything else.
Road Kill got some Godzilla slippers, big monster feet that roar and crash. They cracked everyone up.
Semi busy at the squdron. Didn't fly today. We had a reaction drill, sinulated attack on the airfield. Walked around in my flak jacket and helmet all morning, then off to noon chow. Read a book Pillars of the Earth, about England in the 1100s. It was about the church, the state and master builders. It was good but got predictable after a while...bad knight, monk and king triumph over good knight, monk and king, back and forth. It felt good to read and not worry about anything else.
Road Kill got some Godzilla slippers, big monster feet that roar and crash. They cracked everyone up.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 26 Nov 90
26 NOV 90
Slept late, got to the squadron by 0800. We wore the gas masks for 30 minutes to get used to them. They were relatively comfortable (about what you could expect for having your head inside a rubber bag). Trained the rest of the day, had a formation then an AOM. What a fun day. The training was good though, threat update and no shots!
Slept late, got to the squadron by 0800. We wore the gas masks for 30 minutes to get used to them. They were relatively comfortable (about what you could expect for having your head inside a rubber bag). Trained the rest of the day, had a formation then an AOM. What a fun day. The training was good though, threat update and no shots!
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 25 Nov 90
25 NOV 90
Glad reinforcements are on the way. More folks to sit in the Gulf on boats. Hot, chow, hot water but no phones.
Glad reinforcements are on the way. More folks to sit in the Gulf on boats. Hot, chow, hot water but no phones.
Gunfighter Diary Desert Shield 24 Nov 90
24 NOV 90
Monday now. Slept in Saturday because I was flying late. Came in to squadron around 1000 and planned a NVG nav route with Pickle. We basically were going to go out and build time, which was good, because we can all use the training and experience. We need to work on basic nav and airwork, then move along to the more complicated missions.
Filed the route with the SDO then blasted off into the wild dark yonder. Not much moon tonight, but enough to see. We got about 30 minutes into the hop when I felt a strange vibration in the aircraft. It was a weird flutter throughout the flight controls , and I also thought I heard something too. I guessed that some of the abrasion tape on the tail rotor had loose and decided to land. We landed, shut down and checked it out. Sure enough, that's what it was. Some of the tape had come off and was causing the vibration. We pulled of the remaining tape, turned up, aircraft felt better, so we flew back to base. Tail rotor will have to be retaped and rebalanced now.
Monday now. Slept in Saturday because I was flying late. Came in to squadron around 1000 and planned a NVG nav route with Pickle. We basically were going to go out and build time, which was good, because we can all use the training and experience. We need to work on basic nav and airwork, then move along to the more complicated missions.
Filed the route with the SDO then blasted off into the wild dark yonder. Not much moon tonight, but enough to see. We got about 30 minutes into the hop when I felt a strange vibration in the aircraft. It was a weird flutter throughout the flight controls , and I also thought I heard something too. I guessed that some of the abrasion tape on the tail rotor had loose and decided to land. We landed, shut down and checked it out. Sure enough, that's what it was. Some of the tape had come off and was causing the vibration. We pulled of the remaining tape, turned up, aircraft felt better, so we flew back to base. Tail rotor will have to be retaped and rebalanced now.
