23rd Flying Tiger Association
Reunion at Colorado Springs
What a wonderful reunion we had at Colorado Springs September 11-15 this year. Thanks go to Host L/Col Sam McCraw and to arrangements master-mind L/Col "Rudder" Smith with a big assist by TSgt. Lance Smith. What a team - they made everything work!
The weather in Colorado Springs was near perfect and we took full advantage of the fact at all functions that were at or near the Air Force Academy. There were approx. 90 members and guests plus at least that number of active military from Pope and Peterson AFBs in attendance.
Our first activity Wednesday evening was a 'stroll' through the Flying W Ranch, located near our hotel and adjacent to the Garden of the Gods. The Flying W is a mock-up on an old Western Town that featured many oldtime country stores, working establishments where the needs of that day were manufactured or provided. There was an old-time movie theater that featured giant murals of Indian cultural scenes. There was even a furrier where a horse was being shod.
The event of the evening was an all-you-can-eat Bar BQ feast that was served to about 300 persons total that were in attendance that evening. The remarkable part was that they ran us all through the serving lines in less than 10 minutes! Seconds were available but we didn't see anyone going back. Following dinner, we were treated to a Western musical and comedy show. A great time was had by all.
General Bruce Holloway Memorial Bench Dedicated
Bright and early Thursday morning, the reunion assembled at the U.S. Air Force Academy for the very formal occasion of Honoring General Bruce Holloway with the dedication of a Memorial Bench installed in the Honor Court. The ceremony was conducted in strictest military traditions; officiated over by Brig. Gen S. Taco Gilbert III, Commandant of Cadets.
General Gilbert welcomed the approximately 200 guests that attended the ceremony and provided a re-cap of General Holloway's distinguished career. Brig Gen "Tex" Hill provided a few remarks honoring General Holloway as a friend and fellow military leader. Al Baker read a message from Frances Holloway, who was unable to attend the dedication. See the text of her message below.
"Tex" Hill and 23rd FTA President Col Wisniewski unveiled the beautifully engraved black granite bench that was positioned in the Honor Court about 30 ft. from the scale model P-40 Aircraft. Col Wisniewski officially presented the Memorial Bench to the Air Force Academy and Gen Gilbert accepted it on behalf of the Academy. Closing Benediction by Air Force Chaplain Fitzgerald was followed by Taps.
The very moving ceremony on a beautiful sunshiny morning presented an unequalled photo opportunity which many groups took advantage of
Frances Holloway's Message
Though, unfortunately, I can not be with Bruce's friends at this dedication; I do want to share a few observations about him. I think that you will be assured that this special memorial will be most fitting as a testament to the things that he believed in.
Bruce was a very good listener and, after making sure he had all the details correct, he stored the information for future use. His willingness to accept information from all sources made his fund of knowledge an awesome total. Combining this resource, plus his enormous amount of experience, made him a man of creative thinking. When a problem arose, or a situation needed solving, he did not immediately rush into words, but paused and thought the whole scenario through. This analysis of all the facets of any problem brought forth the full range of his ability to make solutions.
For many, that pause before deciding is not often used. We, Bruce's family, are so happy that there is a place in this arena of learning where present and future generations will be able to sit and think about the things they are learning. In the future they will be able to call upon these early lessons learned to solve the problems of the day.
And for many, just the inspiration of this magnificent view will bring to them the needed strength to do even greater things. Here they will be able to stop and absorb that benevolence. Thanks to all of you for providing such a wonderful legacy from Bruce to the guardians of our future.
By: Frances Holloway
The Day at the Academy
After all the picture taking
was satisfied, we proceeded to the Academy Chapel. Words can't truly
describe this beautiful structure, so we won't. Following the Chapel
tour, we
moved on to the plaza in front
of Mitchell Hall, which was
the dining facility for the entire Cadet
population - 4400
person capacity. In the Plaza, all 4000 Cadets passed
in
parade review prior to entering Mitchell for lunch. The
parade was
complete with Military band and at 12 noon,
we were treated to a
fly-over by a flight of four A-10s
from Pope AFB. What a sight
It was our honor to join the
Cadets for lunch in this dining hall that reportedly
is the largest
facility of this kind in the USA. Cadet
Lunch with 4,000 Cadets
officers divided us up into small groups seated at various tables. The conversation was lively except for the plebes who sat a rigid attention. They spoke only when asked a question and the answer was always "Yes Sir" or "No Sir".
Following lunch, we toured the campus, by bus, then going to the football practice field where we "Gripped and Grinned" with their Academy team; talking to individual members and to Falcons Head Couch Fisher DeBerry. They were an awesome group practicing for a WIN over a California team that following weekend.
USAFA football team interviewing George Bailey
Our star player was George Bailey who was interviewed, on the spot, by John Van Winkle of the Academy Spirit Staff. A very nice article appeared in their Sept. 20th newspaper, complete with pictures.
After this, we went to Falcon Air Field where we were to observe parachute jumping and glider flights. Unfortunately, the weather turned bad and the actual demonstrations were called off. However, we enjoyed a briefing by the Commanding Instructors of these activities.
Social hour and dinner was held at the Academy O'Club. This was a time for reflection on a day of interesting activity at the Academy and for meeting members of the military from Pope and Peterson AFBs. A delightful meal was enjoyed and another photo opportunity was taken advantage of.
Ex-Prez's Swan Song
An election was held at our business meeting in Colorado Springs and Max Noftsger was elected our new president. He will be a good one. The next annual meeting will be in May 2003 at Fayetteville, NC. This meeting will be held during Pope Air Force Base's "Anniversary of Flight" celebration. Max lives fairly close to Pope, so this will be an advantage to us.
The past year was a year of accomplishments for the 76th. The design and wording on the Holloway Bench and the monitoring of the sculpting prior to installation of same was largely accomplished by Leonard O'Dell, Buck Templeton and Al Baker; this was no small job for any of the three and we owe them each our gratitude. This is beautiful art work that the 23rd FTA can be proud to have donated in honor of our leader and, proud that it will stand for many generations to come at the Academy.
The meeting went off like clockwork. Col. Wisniewski had four days well filled with activities that kept us all busy and particularly interested. Col. McCraw had a cook-out at Space Operations then briefed us on the work they are during, which is really interesting. Col. "Rudder" Smith was operations chief for the meeting. He carried it off with professionalism but let me tell you he was busy. Kudos to all of the active duty units and to all their personnel who had a hand in the success of our meeting.
This was a successful meeting, which is gratifying. I have enjoyed being your president for the past year and feel it an honor to have served my comrades and friends.
By: Steve Bonner.
Prez Says
Congratulations to our Past President, Steve Bonner, the 23rd Fighter Group, and the 76th SPCS for making the Colorado Springs Reunion an outstanding affair. It was great seeing old friends and meeting new ones. The Memorial Ceremony honoring General Bruce Holloway was most impressive and this was followed by having lunch with 4,000 Cadets. Another highlight was Saturday
John Stewart's plane, Lynn II, at Peterson AFB
at the 76th, seeing what the Squadron does and later having our picture taken in front of John Stewart's plane, LYNN II.
Those of you who attended know what a fine time we had. Next year we look forward to an even greater affair. Our reunion will be in May at Pope AFB, Fayetteville, North Carolina the same week Pope celebrates the Festival of Flight celebrating 100 years of flight since the Wright Brothers flew at Kitty Hawk. We hope you can be here to celebrate with us.
By: Max Noftsger, President
The Grand Banquet
The Grand Banquet Saturday night was presided over by Col Wisniewsky who yielded the floor to one of our grand ladies who wrote a very appropriate poem on her way to this reunion. It is only fitting that this poem is recorded here because it so aptly describes our heritage:
"The 23rd Fighter Group"
September 11, 2002
The 23rd? We know those guys-- They went to fly the China skies.
General Chennault taught them well: They did their job - gave the Japanese hell.
The ground crews were the best around (Or nothing would have left the ground!)
The pilots knew, when they pulled chocks, Their planes would run like well-tuned clocks.
Mechanics, armorers-heroes all, They say those crews stood ten feet tall.
Their tales of glory, oft untold, Declare that they were "solid gold".
That group's fighting spirit defied belief, In tough P-40s with mean shark teeth,
Eager with Chennault's know-how, Rolling up the score with each "jing bao".
To the new 23rd that carries their name: We're counting on you to get Hussein!
Take down Al-Qaeda-get Bin Laden; We'll pray for you, you're not forgotten.
You've had crack training-you're sure not green, You're the 23rd-a fighting machine!
You have our heritage and your story: We're proud to have you guard Old Glory.
By: - Mazie Hill
Many thanks Maize for this lovely poem, it really tells the story of the 23rd throughout the years. - Ed.
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A delightful dinner was served to approximately 200 persons that attended the Grand Banquet. Tex Hill treated us with few of his favorite jokes and Joe Mitchell presented a series of photos of Tex receiving the Distinguished Service Cross. Tex says: "Aw Shucks".
Our main speaker was "Chuck" Tucker, 75th FS, who spoke about his career as a test pilot in the early days after WW II. It was interesting but a few of the ladies may not have been over-whelmed by it.
The last activity on the program was officiated by Tex Hill in a swearing-in ceremony inducting an Airman from Pope AFB for another six year hitch. Very impressive.
Tex Hill swears-in Pope airman for another Hitch
The next stop was the hospitality rooms for a much needed night cap.
Squadron Dinner
The 16th and 76th FS Squadron Dinner held Friday night included many members of the 76th SPCS and active duty personnel from
L/Col Sam McCraw and Lynn & John Stewart
Pope AFB. A very delightful dinner was enjoyed by all present. L/Col. Sam McCraw, our reunion host, welcomed all to Colorado Springs and discussed some of the interesting sights of this area.
As is usual, photo opportunities presented themselves between each dinner course and we took full advantage. A special event was uncovered by Jim and Suzanne Eng - this just happens to be John Stewart's birthday! So, they brought forth a beautifully decorated cake to mark the occasion and all received a generous portion. And, of course, we all sang "Happy Birthday, Dear John". How nice of them!
76th FS Meeting
A brief meeting was held Saturday morning, the primary purpose being to elect new officers for the coming year. Present were: Steve Bonner, Max Noftsger, Buck Templeton, Al Baker, Rex Gouger, Glenn Beneda, John Stewart, Jim Eng, Sam McCraw and Leonard O'Dell Items were discussed as listed below:
- There was no Old Business to discuss and we didn't have a copy of last year's minutes were approved, never-the-less.
2. Officers and appointees:
 | · President - Max Noftsger |
| · Vice President - Jud Bullard |
| · VP-Membership - Al Baker |
| · Secretary - Leonard O'Dell |
| · Treasurer - Richard Perkins |
| · Service Officer - Steve Bonner |
| · Chaplain - Richard Perkins |
| · Historians: Tom Raleigh |
| Jim Eng, Assistant |
| · Newsletter: Leonard O'Dell, Editor |
| Al Baker, Distribution |
| · Directors: Al Baker, Steve Bonner, Jud Bullard, Leonard O'Dell & Richard Perkins |
| · Webmaster - Doug O'Dell |
All members that were present agreed to serve.
3. The rising costs of our newsletter was discussed. At the present time, it costs just a little more than $1 to print and mail each issue and there are ~180 persons on our combined lists. Up until this year, donations (unspecified) were suggested on our reunion registration form. However, this year and next, the reunion is being handled by the 23rd FTA and hence there is no opportunity to make this collection. Thus it was decided to use an alternate method.
Comment: this donation is
used not only for the newsletter expenses but all others incurred.
Thus it is suggested that members donate $15/year minimum and
"Friends of the 76th" donate $5/year minimum. In both cases,
a proviso was stipulated: If there is a hardship, less is OK. And
also, it is requested that recipients comment whether or not they wish
to continue receiving our newsletter. (Some may not be interested in
receiving our newsletter).
4. Al Baker volunteered to
handle the distribution of our newsletter. The editor and Al will
communicate information via e-mail. Additionally, Steve Bonner advised
that he could be an alternate in this process but must learn the
procedure. He was accepted with open arms. Thus the roster program and
the software will be sent to Steve, with instructions.
5. Jim Eng suggested the use
of Book-Plates with appropriate signatures included with the books
that he has for sale. This has the potential of increasing the value
of the books. Members discussed this suggestion and voted approval.
6. Sam McCraw suggested sending our newsletter recipients via e-mail to those that have email addresses. Al Baker & Leonard O'Dell to investigate. Note: some people with an e-mail address may not have software such as MS Word that can download a 6 or 8 page document.
Burger Burn ala 76 SPCS
Saturday mid-day, we boarded buses and drove out to Peterson AFB in the southern part of Colorado Springs for a picnic lunch in the Hanger 104 used by the 76th SPCS. What a nice setting for a picnic. Their recreation area was complete with a mock-up of the "Silver Grill" bar that was a favorite watering hole for the AVG's in
Rangoon back in 1942. Many of our members had a refreshing drink but for two of them, Tex Hill and George Bailey, it was the second time around - after 60 years!
Silver Grill inside 76th SPCS hanger
The picnic foods provided by the 76th SPCS included several varieties of just about everything a picnic should have. Everyone enjoyed the food and afterwards, L/Col Sam McCraw provided us with a briefing on what their current mission consists. Actually we didn't learn much because they are operating in a secret atmosphere - but it does have something to do with computers and satellites.
1. A slide show on the mission of the 23rd was presented explaining the progress being made.
2. An over-view of the USAF year was given.
3. Col Wiz presented Certificates of Appreciation to the various persons that were involved in the Holloway Memorial Bench project.
4. L/Col Clan Floyd, Pope 74th FS Commander reviewed Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan & Iraq. This was an outstanding undertaking.
5. Capt. "Soup" Campbell of 74th FS discussed in detail their operation in Afghanistan. A truly remarkable war story that just happened just a few weeks ago.
Capt. "Soup" Campbell briefing 23rd FTA
6. L/Col. Rick Turner, 75th FS Commander reviewed the "American Rain" support operations in Kuwait and Afghanistan. It was interesting to note that they did not lose any aircraft during this recent series of missions.
7. The 23 FG had on hand 2002 reunion caps and Flying Tigers pins that could be purchased.
8. Don Van Cleve, 75th FS, had available for sale a special 2003 Calendar featuring General Chennault and the Flying Tigers. A gotta-have item!
23rd FTA - General Meeting
Col. Vincent Wisniewski, president of the 23rd FTA opened and presided over the meeting.
1. Some of the reasons for meetings such as this are: to keep alive the heritage and traditions of the Flying Tigers plus good fellowship and support of the new generations of Tigers.
2. Motion was made to investigate the possibility of having a website for all squadrons.
3. Special Planning Committee established to investigate website: 76th FS (China) - Leonard O'Dell, 75th FS (China) - Sully Barrett, 74th FS (China) - no volunteers. (It's not too late).
4. Festival of Flight will be held in Fayetteville, NC the last two weeks of May 2003. Pope AFB will host the 2003 23rd FTA reunion May 21-25 during military week. Wednesday will be check-in day and they will have an Air Show Party prior to the Saturday Air Show. And Sunday, there will be a brunch at Pinehurst.
5. 23rd FTA Officers - remain the same as present.
6. Next year's Reunion Host (Pope AFB) will work through Squadron Presidents.
7. Squadron Presidents for the coming year:
| 74th FS - Bob Martin |
| 75th FS - George Casey |
| 76th FS - Max Noftsger |
| 16th FS - Bob Liles (assumed) |
| 118th TRS - Wayne Johnson (assumed) |
Hospitality Suite
The Hospitality Suites continue to a happy after-hours place to relax, meet old friends and new ones plus maybe have an after-dinner refreshment, and this is especial useful when operating at a high altitude such as Colorado Springs. This year there were
Hospitality Suites were great places to relax.
three suites operated by the 74th, 75th and the 76th FS - all were welcome at any of them. The 76th was happy to have a steady stream of visitors to welcome. Most of our off-hours operations were conducted in the comfort of the H-S.
We had for sale The Vanguard and 23rd FTA wind-shield stickers - we actually sold some of them! Jim End brought along a supply of soft-back books by Carl Molesworth entitled
" Sharks Over China" and he sold quite a few of them. Jim and Suzanne presented most of the 76ers with "Americanism" Sweat-shirts and or Tee-shirts. (These are real fine people!)
Other Events
There were a number of other events available but not mentioned, so far, in this newsletter. These were optional and many people took advantage of them. It would be worth-while mentioning some of them: Garden of the Gods, Broadmoor's Golden B, Cripple Creek Casino, Ladies shopping tour to Old Colorado City, Pike's Peak Excursion. There was a lot to do at this reunion!