American Military Personnel Based in Bermuda from 1940 to 1964

Fort Bell, US Army Air Force

April 1941-July 4, 1944. Brigadier General Alden G. Strong was in command.

1941. Mid December. Dennis E. Lord (age 83 in 2003 and residing with son Dennis C. Lord) was then a Technical Sergeant in the US Army's Projection Service, earlier based in California. He was placed on a train to Charleston, SC where he boarded a ship bound for Bermuda. His specialty was running the movie theater. His "movie house" consisted of a hut with a corrugated roof.  When it rained, he had to stop the show because of the noise on the roof. On the job, he loaded armament on the planes destined for training missions. He was also one of those who dragged P-40's down to the beach for gun tests. A colleague was "George" who was frequently "on the sauce" and Lord would be called at the barracks to "come down and finish the show, first at the temporary movie theater, then the purpose-build one shown in one of the photographs above, as George couldn't."

1942 to 1945. the late Donald H. Larson, Sr. served with the US Army in Bermuda at Fort Bell. His son and daughter-in-law, Don and Sue Larson, live at 13840 North 23rd Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 at phone (651) 439-3864. They cruised to Bermuda in July 04.

From 1941 to 1945, Captain F. W. Clipper, US Army, commanded the US Army artillery and US Signal Corps unit at Fort Langton, Devonshire. He married a Bermudian girl, Rosemary (nee Champness), never went back home to the USA to live but remained in Bermuda. He had two daughters, lived in Bailey's Bay, later worked for BOAC, became a Cub master in the 1950s at the Lyceum, Bailey's Bay and later a prominent volunteer with the Bermuda Red Cross. His wife died in the late 1980s. A daughter and granddaughter live in Bermuda.

  1943. Charles Field served as Captain's Talker on the USS Thomas, A Hunter-Killer in World War 2. It visited and trained in Bermuda during this period. He wrote a book about it by that title.

1943-5. David Anderson was a member of the USN Seabees, stationed at the Naval Operating Base (NOB), later the US Naval Annex, in Southampton, and  worked in the Public Works Department located in the old Crane House, then a historic local residence.  For a short time he lived at Bloomfield Cottage, Paget West, not far from the Inverurie Hotel. He had a brief friendship with Barney Marriott, M.D., then a staff physician at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, and other friends. He would like to correspond by e-mail with anyone who remembers them.

1943-46. Don Auster spent three years in Bermuda as a member of the U.S. Army. After less than eight weeks of military training, he was on a troopship bound for the North Africa war zone.  He wrote: "The ship mainly carried a thousand or so combat troops trained in desert warfare. Three days later, on a dark, cold, rainy night, the ship made its first port, Bermuda, and only our small group were told to disembark. We climbed into trucks and eventually arrived at our destination, a large rain soaked tent, where we spent the night  That morning, we found ourselves in the courtyard of a large elegant hotel!  It was the (now-closed) Castle Harbour! I lived and worked there for a year after which I was transferred to the newly completed U.S. Army hospital on St. David's Island.  I spent the next two years there as a laboratory technician."

From July 5, 1944 to January 13, 1946, Brigadier General Thomas H. Jones was in command.

1944.  Will Mitchell Haire was at the US Naval Operating Base. His plane, a USN Martin PNB Mariner 6717, one of the nine aircraft of Squadron VP 207 (VP meant for a long range regular Patrol squadron, compared to VS for a Scouting squadron), crashed 25 miles north of Bermuda on 20 August 1944. All eight crew members were missing, presumed killed. The squadron had been in Bermuda for only three months, since June. It had replaced VP 201 which had served in Bermuda from September 1943 to June 1944. The rest of Haire's squadron remained in Bermuda until June 1945.

1944. Bronson Hartley of the 791st Quartermaster Boat Company, Aviation (redesignated as a detachment of the 1st Air Force Emergency Rescue Squadron, with its own crash boat) was decorated for heroism. He rescued crewmen from a downed US Army Air Force aircraft that crashed into the water off the end of the Castle Harbor runway. Later, he became an esteemed marine biologist and inventor of the Hartley Diving Helmet.

1944. Geoff Hanson was stationed in Bermuda, at the-then US Submarine Base in the Town of St. George.

In September 1944, Colonel Cecil E. Henry arrived, as commander of Kindley Field (not Fort Bell, which General Jones commanded).

July 1944. Lt. James Humphreys, USNR, then stationed at the Naval Operating Base in Southampton and living at Inwood, Paget, had a unique if indirect claim to fame. His wife Shirley was then a young nurse of the Jones family of 'Inwood. She looked after a German Navy U-boat commander, Lange, captured and brought to Bermuda.

In 1945, Samuel Ristich was a navigator with the US Army Air Corps based in Bermuda. One of his claims to fame is that he was the second person in Bermuda (after Louis Mowbray in 1906, but not identified until much later) to discover a freshly killed bird, the cahow, that was supposed to have been extinct since 1650. He and a friend stuffed and ate it. Later, he sent bones of another to the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC where it was identified as a cahow.

From 1945 to 1946, David Anderson (email fdavidander at sbcglobal.net), now living at  903 Brandenburg Street, Cedar Hill, TX 75104 - was stationed at the Naval Operating Base, Bermuda. "I was attached to the USN Public Works Department then located in the original Crane House - a historic residence believed to be named after the Crane family, well known makers of plumbing fixtures. Because of its pre WW2 historic background, I wonder if it is still intact? Is a digital image available? "

From January 1946 to October 1946, Colonel Cecil E. Henry was in command.

From March 7-July 25, 1946, Major General Howard M. Turner was in command.

From March 1946 to March 1948, Al Henderson (email owlhenderson@aol.com) was stationed at NOB Bermuda. He was assigned to the APC 92 which was used to carry civil service workers from Hamilton to the base each morning and back to Hamilton each evening. "I was there when President Harry Truman visited the base in July 1946. I have a picture of him on the "Williamsburg" which was taken without anyone knowing. With some other sailors, I went to Kindley Air Force bas in a Navy 2 ton truck and tried to find the Army mule. It was just before the Army-Navy football game. The Army got wise to what we were doing and escorted us off the base. I was published in the newspapers there about our failure to get the Army mule. I believe Admiral Henderson was commander at that time. No kin to me though. Bob Hope also visited the base while I was there. I now reside at 109 Poplar Loop, Petal, Ms 39465 if anyone would like to contact me."

April 16, 1946.  Lt. Stong was then based in Bermuda. He and Mrs. Stong had a baby there, the first baby to be delivered in the new obstetrical department of the base hospital, a 7 lb 2 oz son. It is believed this was the first baby born to a mother authorized to join her husband at an overseas Air Force station.

From July 26-28th 1946 and October 3, 1946 to March 13, 1947, Brigadier General Dale V. Gaffney was in command.

From 1947 to 1949, Emil J. Torres was stationed at what soon became Kindley Air Force Base, Bermuda with the Army Air Corps crash boats. "I live at 5724 N. 78 Street. Omaha, Nebraska 68134--2214. I would like to hear from anyone."

Kindley Air Force Base 1946-1970

Named after Captain Field E. Kindley, US Army Air Force.

Colonel Lawrence E. Brooks, US Army Air Corps, was stationed at Kindley from September, 1947 until February, 1950.  His wife, sister and son (Tom Brooks, who supplied this photograph) accompanied him to Bermuda and lived at Kindley Field.  Tom attended St. George's Grammar School and his sister was at Bermuda High School for Girls just outside Hamilton.  Tom currently lives at Avondale Estates, Georgia, near Atlanta.  He and his wife and children - 25, 29 and 31- enjoyed a visit to Bermuda May 3-9, 2001.  They were taken around by this author to many of the places they remembered.

From March 14, 1947- July 13, 1949, Colonel Thomas D. Ferguson was in command

In 1948 Rear Admiral Austin K. Doyle commanded the US Naval Operating Base (NOB) Bermuda. On October 18, the manager of Bermuda's Belmont Manor Hotel stiffly requested the U.S. Navy to make the hotel "off bounds" for enlisted men. Admiral Doyle even more stiffly replied that he would put it off bounds for officers too. Said he: "The customs of my country do not permit discrimination between officers and men in public places."

From 1948 to 1950, Bob Garton, Sr. was attached to Patrol Squadron 45 based at the Naval Operating Base (NOB), Bermuda for 2 years,1949 and 1950. It was one of the greatest experiences of his Navy career. He and his crew flew search and rescue missions as well as anti-submarine patrols with PBM Martin Mariner aircraft. He does not have any contact with former shipmates from this duty station. He lives at 7080 Versailles, Pinellas Park, FLA 33781. He expects to be visiting Bermuda in April or May, 2004.

From 9 December 1948 - 1950, Dann Murr, YN3, was at the Naval Operating Base (NOB),  attached to VP-45. "Spent 1st Christmas away from home, and Christmas Eve, until after midnight, Dan Lynch and I played one-on-one basketball in the base gym. We threw our first liberty together in Hamilton. Loved it in Bermuda. Remained with the squadron until April 1951. Left the service in 1952 and became a sportswriter for 40 years in the southeast and mid west. Retired to Florida in 1992. Email address is DMurrnlhs@comcast.net. Bermuda was my most favorite place. I was back there a few years ago. Very disappointing to see that the Navy base has been dismantled and is no longer there. For those interested, I'm an author and historian, at website www.danlmurr.4mg.com. Books currently available are A Need to Know (Military/Espionage/Romance adventure, FWA first place fiction award); We Never Said Goodbye (and other stories, a variety of 7 short stories); The Medjugorje Encounter (Nonfiction, about 4 pilgrimages to this Bosnia-Herzegovina city and apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary); The Milk Wagon (Military fiction adventure about a covert mission to Manchuria/North Korea in 1946). (All books are available online from Jada Press, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million, Borders, Amazon.com online bookstores)."

From May 1949 as Deputy Commander, then from July 14, 1949 to August 30, 1951, Colonel (later, Lieutenant General) Jack G. Merrell as Commander. He married the former Martha Bassett of Dallas and they had a son and daughter. His family were in Bermuda also. He became USAF comptroller in November 1964. (His daughter Suzanne Merrell Wright wrote to say he retired as a 4-star general in September 1972. She planned a visit to Bermuda by cruise ship in October 2008).

From August 31, 1949 to July 14, 1953, Colonel  (later, General) Richard F. Bromiley was in command.

From September 1949 to April 1952, Thomas Austin Morgan (who retired as a Master Sergeant in the US Air Force) was stationed in Bermuda at Kindley AFB, in the communications department.  He was married to Helene Marie Morgan (maiden name Mueller), a German war bride.  They met when her husband was stationed in Germany during the occupation of Germany after WWII.  Their daughter Shirley (Kelley) was born July, 1950 at Kindley AFB. She writes: "I recall how my mother said the islands were known as "The Isles of Rest", "The Isles of Beauty", "The Isles of Dreams".  We first lived on Pond Hill, Pembroke East, highest house on the hill.  Our neighbors, the Matthews, had kids and grandkids. We saw the "Gombeys" at New Year's, Guy Fawkes night on November 5.  In February 1950 we moved to Cox's Hill, Pembroke West, to a house owned by Mr. Dunkley, a dairyman. Captain Calvert, Capt. Kenna, Lt. Lebherz and 2 nurses took care of my Mom at the time I was born. She mentioned the beautiful beaches, pink houses, wonderful people, etc. I am trying to get the family slides taken during our time in Bermuda from my sister".

  From 1950 to 1953 Stanley A. Cohan (then 2nd lieutenant, now major, USAF, Ret) - at e-mail sacohan@comcast.net - was a pilot with the 29th Air Rescue Squadron USAF based at Kindley AFB. He and his colleagues initially flew SB-17's and then advanced to SB-29's. He wrote this author to say he was an unsophisticated youngster right out of Air Force flying school headed for his first posting. "What a wonderful three years it was! The work was exciting, the island most beautiful and the Bermudians were ever so gracious!  I loved the island to the point that I returned with my wife for ten Christmases in a row. I have lost contact with almost all my colleagues - except for  Ken Wilbur (later Colonel, USAF, Retired) - who resides with his wife Lucy in Greenville, S.C."

From 1951 to 1954 Hal Susskind, at email hasusskind@hotmail.com) was a USAF Major based at KAFB Bermuda with the Air Rescue flight. He writes: "My wife Rae and my six month old son, Michael were at Kindley with me. Two months later we added a boxer pup to the family. The tour was exciting, the people and scenery were beautiful and friendly and I was promoted to Major as I was leaving. Highlight of my tour in Bermuda was escorting President Eisenhower's aircraft  to and from a conference. My wife's highlights were sitting through several hurricanes with son, Michael., while we evacuated the aircraft to a safe place. I participated in a life saving mission flown out of Bermuda on July 21, 1952.  I was the navigator on an SB-29 which flew 1000 miles out of Bermuda and acted as the Bombardier to make a night drop of Blood Plasma on the deck of a Swedish freighter to save a seaman's life. Also aboard were Tom McGrain (navigator) and George Welch (commander). Now I'm  92 and with Rae, my wife of 60 years live at 2602 Deerfoot Trail in Austin, Texas. I retired as Lt. Col  in 1973 after 30 years chock full of excitement. We raised four children in Louisiana, South Carolina, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Virginia, Naples, Italy and Utah. I flew 44 missions in WW II and did  a year in Vietnam. I served  five years in the Pentagon and a year in the nuclear test series at Christmas and Fiji Islands."  

From 1951 to 1953, Captain Russell A. VerNooy USAF was stationed at Kindley AFB with the 53rd Weather Squadron, flying the WB-29s. With him was his wife and young son Russ. They lived on a rented cottage at the bottom of Knapton Hill, near the junction with Harrington Sound Road close to Devil's Hole. Their Bermuda friends included the Forbes family - this author's family - at Flatt's. Young Russ attended both Cavendish School (he still has photos of the Maypole events and students) and Lyceum in Bailey's Bay. Contact details are: Russ VerNooy, 19 Millers Joist, Plymouth, MA 02360-7751, 508-209-0347 home, 617-529-4514 cell (when not home). Email russv02360@verizon.net. 

USAF WB-29 flying over Bermuda, 1952

  From November 16, 1951 to November 24, 1954, Johnny L. Nolen was a S/SGT in Det. #10, 9th Weather Group at Kindley AFB under Col. Beatty. He writes:  " I had the privilege of seeing a newly crowned Queen Elizabeth and her husband as they made their first visit to Bermuda. While I was NCO in charge of the Rawinsonde Section of the weather group, Col. Beatty and I made the first weather balloon observation in the eye of a hurricane done by an Air Force  station, I think in 1953. This website mentions the crash of a Cubana plane in 1952. I  was there. On that particular MORNING I was waiting for the plane to take off so I could release a weather balloon. The control tower always gave us a "GREEN LIGHT" after take-off so I was waiting for that. The plane took off almost directly over my head and I saw an engine on fire. I watched as the plane banked left around the point and then saw the bright light from the explosion. I immediately called the tower to report what I had seen. They were aware of the crash because they had lost contact with the plane. I would like to correspond with any one who was at KAFB during this time period. My address is Johnny Nolen, 904 Garden St, Rossville, GA 30741." 

  From February to May 1952, Eugene Napier (now of 1461 Cloverdale Ct, Sunnyvale, CA 94087) was in the 1st Air Rescue Sqdn (CO Major Welch). He writes: "We had two B-17's with plywood boats slung under the bomb bay and dropped with three 50 ft rayon parachutes. Sometime in 1951 we traded our B-17s for two B-29's with aluminum boats with 1 100ft nylon parachute. I met my wife at Elbow Beach, we were married in 1953 and 30 years later returned for our anniversary and stayed at the Elbow Beach. I purchased my white formal wear from HA&E Smiths on Front Street. Of all the places I've been in the world since then, I enjoyed Bermuda the most."

  From 1952 until his retirement in 1965, the late Truman J. Romee was the chief planner and estimator of the Public Works Department of the US Naval Operating Base (NOB) Bermuda. He had previously served as a master electrician PO 1st class with the USN during WW2 & The Korean War and was first assigned to NOB in 1942. His son Jammie A. Romee - of email JROMEES309@msn.com - writes: "I first arrived in Bermuda when I was just ten days old (September 23rd 1952). We lived on what was then Bermuda's highest point (Rose Hill cottage) in Southampton Parish, WHAT A VIEW !  In 1963 we moved into "Sea-o-rama" a nice house owned by the French family on "Sea-swept-farms" (also in Southampton). Randy French (current editor of the Bermuda Sun) and I were both born on the same day in 1952 and were close friends as kids. I attended the Port Royal school, and later The Whitney Institute, and then KAFB HS. When Dad retired we moved back to Jacksonville, Florida where I finished school and went on to a USAF career. I currently work for the U.S. Postal Service in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. My childhood memories are wonderful ones filled with magic and joy. Someday I hope to return and find a few of those nostalgic memories again. Keep up the good work and many thanks for the website!"

From 1952-1970, Nurse Olander was at the Kindley base hospital. In addition to her military duties, she raised three children, the eldest of whom, Timmy (Tom), was about 13 in 1954 and was at the civilian Whitney Institute in Smith's Parish in 1954. Then he went to Saltus and Mount St. Agnes, also local civilian schools. He spent 27 years in the US Army, retired as a lieutenant colonel and is now involved in teaching paramedics in the Washington DC area.  He is also a firefighter/paramedic volunteer with a local fire department. Another brother was Peter, a year younger, still a resident of Bermuda and living in St. David's. The youngest was Bob, who also went to Whitney for a couple of years before going to Kindley in 1957 and graduated from there in 1966. The family lived in St. George's.

From August 1952 to May 1956, Billy Samples was stationed with the US Navy in Bermuda, as an air crewman, AT-3,  in VP-49. He writes: "We originally flew PBM aircraft and transitioned into P5Ms in about 1953. I married a Canadian and had a daughter born in the hospital at Kindley AFB.  We resided in Hamilton for about two years.  We took the "Ocean Monarch" to New York and I was discharged at the Brooklyn Navy Yards."

From December 24, 1952 to September 1954, Tom and Ellie Ryan were stationed in Bermuda with the US Navy in Southampton Parish. Tom was an ENCM, in charge of the Boat House, under Captain Leeper. In February 1953, their daughter Susan Harrod was born in Bermuda at Kindley AFB. (In July 2002, she  finally got to return to Bermuda. It was wonderful and more beautiful than the home movies and the stories told by her parents and sisters.  She found the AFB was no longer in use, and more upsetting, was the fact she could not get into the former Naval Base. She really wanted to take a photo of their house on base for her parents, who have many fond memories of their time in Bermuda and I know would love to hear from anyone who is still around. They can e-mail her or her parents. Bermuda is truly a beautiful place (VERY expensive), with nice people, and she can't wait to return).

From 1953-1954,  S/Sgt Bailey Skelton USAF, step-father of Tom Taylor who contributed this, was stationed at Kindley AFB. "We lived off base in Seaview Cottage on North shore road at the bottom of Crawl Hill. I went to school at Whitney Institute. I still have my report card.  I was 11-12 at the time. Of all the places I've lived in this world Bermuda is my fondest memories. I will never forget my first sight of Bermuda from my aircraft window. I also remember seeing Queen Elizabeth and her husband, school was let out early so all of the children could line her path at the Airport. Great stuff ! I also remember a character  known as" Captain Blood" or as he is known to his friends " Blood." I probably knew Nurse Olander's boys who went to Whitney. Will never forget the singing frogs. I've been back to Bermuda several times and I would love to see some old  acquaintances the next time I  go. My address is 449 Payne Dr. Miami Springs, FL 33166."

From January 1953-54, T/Sgt John Widener was stationed at KAFB, with the 53rd Weather Recon (Hurricane Hunters). He, his wife Mary (who joined him in February 1953, with their 2-year old daughter and son - born in Bermuda -(Editor's note: see Bermuda Citizenship for who qualifies, under Bermuda and British law) left in June 1954 for White Sands, New Mexico). Mary Widener writes: " We resided off-base, on Water Street in St. George's, the property during the Civil War was a warehouse, and was converted to apartments at that time.  The owner was the Mayor of St. George.  The apartments were at the foot of the hill that went steeply up to another street, but Water Street curved to the right down to the offices of the Mayor and his business. Next door to the left was a beauty shop, then further to the left was a Chinese cafe, and on down was a grocery store. Then on down to the left was the town square and a hotel. We have often wondered what happened to that area. I recall a Mr. and Mrs. Cousland (spelling not certain) who lived in the upstairs apartment and had lived there many years. We now live at 505 E Moses, Cushing, Ok 74023, 918-225-3723, but have fond memories of our time in your Bermuda."

From July 15, 1953-July 2, 1956, Colonel George W. Peterson was in command.

From 1953 to 1956, John W. Pope - at email  Jjjapope331@aol.com - was stationed at NOB Bermuda, initially as an Aviation Ordnance man third class and made second class during that tour. "I was then transferred to VP-49 as air crewman aboard 8 boat, a P5M.,where I stayed making many sub patrols, one of which was the discovery of the then brand new Nautilus sub, which was on its way around the world under water.  I, my wife and family, enjoyed our tours there very much . I was then transferred to VAW-33 in Quonset Point R.I. I am now retired living at 9016 Trellis Pointe, Charlotte, NC 28227. "

On December 9, 1953,  Herbert Buswell, 23, serving at the time in Bermuda with the US Navy in Southampton with VP-49 as an aircrewman - not a military pilot - very nearly lost his life. It was during the "First Summit Conference" in Bermuda. Prime Minister Winston Churchill of Britain was reviewing, in Hamilton, the "Big 3" Armed Forces security guard. As he did so, two Bermuda Air Tours Luscome 8a aircraft, registration numbers VR-BAE and VR-BAS collided in Hamilton Harbour and crashed into the sea. VR-BAE was flown by Buswell. He was seriously injured. VR-BAS was piloted by 18 year-old Bermudian Philip Masters. It was badly damaged, but Masters managed a safe landing before the aircraft sank and managed to get ashore. Buswell's life was saved by a Bermudian, Mr. Stanley Ross Doe, who for his bravery was awarded the (British) George Medal.

From December 1953 to June 1956, Arthur Gately who now lives at 2 Libby Lane, P.O. Box 91, Moody Maine, 04054, was stationed at Kindley AFB in the 1934th AACS squadron and worked as a radio operator in the air/ground station. (He had the same job as Bill McDonald did 5 years later). He knows that Hurricane Hunter planes were both B29's and B50's. He, as one of the radio operators in the AACS squadron, primarily "ground" operators, were given the opportunity to cross-train as flight operators by going along on the 13 and 14 hour flights of the 59th Air Weather Squadron known as the Hurricane Hunters. Before mid 55 all planes were B29's, at which time they started updating the equipment to B50s. He personally flew in several 29's, and once in a B50.  As his duties required him to send the call sign of the aircraft many times over the air, he remember some of the numbers: 1734, 2089, 5281, 4040 and 9769. When you were airborne in one of these planes you were known as being up on "The Gull".  Several different weather routes were flown depending on the time of the year. There was the Lima route, the Juliet route etc., and when you were flying this route the call of the aircraft would be "Gull Juliet 9769" or "Gull Lima 4040"  and so forth. The building in the far background (right) is the AACS squadron barracks, the next toward the foreground on the right is the 59 Air Weather Squadron barracks.  59th was later changed to 53rd.  To the left of the immediate foreground would have been the Base Exchange, (BX) if it had been shown, and if the camera swung a little more left and back it would have captured the Airman's Club. He and his wife visited the former base in 1999 and the Bermuda Land Development Corporation was at that time converting all of the buildings to housing units. They were not allowed to roam. But a security guard escorted Arthur to his old barracks so he could take a look, after 45 years.

In 1954 - dates of arrival and departure from Bermuda not specified - Michael Artale was stationed at KAFB Bermuda, with his wife Flora. Their daughter Betty Jean has written to say she was born in Bermuda in March of that year. Her address and married name are Betty Jean (Artale) Kessler, 97 Roosevelt Pl, Mineola, NY 11501.

From 1954 to about 1963, Lt. Cdr. Joseph Pinning was the Office of Naval Research Resident Representative at the SOFAR Tudor Hill Lab in Southampton, Bermuda. He ran a very effective Project Artemis from his office. Artemis was a major effort by the US Navy to find and fix Russian subs with underwater acoustic equipment. He is survived by a daughter Elizabeth Pinning in Panama City, Florida.

From 1954 to 1958 Art Holmes - now of Augusta, Georgia - was stationed in Bermuda with the Hurricane Hunters and again from 1962 until 1564 when the unit was replaced by satellites and  returned to the US. He writes: "It is now a reserve unit and they  are called to active duty only when we are threatened by the brewing of a hurricane. During that time the unit was designated at different times as the  53rd or the 59th Weather Recon. Squadron. There were a number of TV news reports emanating from Kindley, including a major news event  when famed newscaster Edward R. Murrow flew an actual hurricane mission with us. We also went to Ascension Island off the coast of  Africa to scout the weather for the testing of the intercontinental ballistic missiles in 1958. I thoroughly enjoyed my off duty time during my six years in Bermuda, but recently returned on a cruise and was astonished by the changes."

For all of 1954 and the first six months of 1955, Tom Wood was stationed at Kindley AFB, in the 1934th AACS as a radio operator. He writes:  "I have been reading some of the postings about people who served with me there. Several mentioned events that I remember. Such as the B47 that exploded immediately after making a low pass down the main runway at Kindley. I also recall the Princess, Elbow Beach and Bermudiana hotels with fond memories. I I occasionally played in a small, local civilian dance band.  We played at the officers club, NCO club and I think a civilian club.  I think there was a night club called the Angels Grotto also. I have many fond memories of Bermuda.  After all I was only 20!  I could write more but just wanted to pass this along and say I appreciate your web site. Tom Wood, 709 W. Morris Circle, Dunn, NC 28334 n4cid@embarqmail.com.

From 1954-55, Roger Hicks was stationed at Kindley as an Air Traffic Controller. He writes: "One action not written about that I hope to see more of was the B47 that we handled in 1954 that blew up after performing a low pass over our main runway. I have always wondered what happened to the barracks that housed the Air Police and AACS squadron upstairs? Are all the rest of Air Force buildings intact?"

From 1954 to 1957, Phillip Walling, now of Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire, was stationed at KAFB, Bermuda. He and his wife, then newly-married, arrived on the cruise ship Queen of Bermuda and lived in the rented house "Harringcliff" overlooking Harrington Sound. They loved Bermuda. They left on the cruise ship Ocean Monarch. They have many happy memories.

From 1954-55, Harlan Hooks was at Kindley, a mechanic with the 35th MAT Air Transport Squadron. He recalls the crash of the B47, its recovery operation, and an emergency landing of a Super Constellation G. His daughter is Dr. Kim Hooks of Fayette County Public Schools, Lexington, KY.

From June 1955 through August 1958, Major Dick F. Tedford, his wife Mary Jane Tedford and sons were in Bermuda.  Lee L. (Grantham) Tedford, worked at ZBK-TV shortly after it went on the air and wrote: "My mother and I produced and I hosted a weekly live local show, "Time Out For Teenagers" from August 1956 until August 1957. I began a radio program on ZBM-2 daily, playing top forty music and went on to have daily and weekly music programs on ZBM-1 as well. They were historic years in the history of Broadcasting in Bermuda and those of us fortunate to be a part of that page in Broadcast history were also among the pioneers in Radio and Television worldwide.  At ZBM-TV, which went on the air in January 1958, I worked with former members of the BBC, CIBC (Canadian Broadcasting), ABC and the Bermudian Broadcasting company's Radio Centre staff. I also wrote a column about TV for the Kindley "Skyliner" for a while.  I attended Whitney Institute, where I met Tim Olander. We played basketball together on the Kindley Hawks." For further details, see under "1955" in "History."

From 1955 - 1957, Fred L. Browne, now at 113 Clemwood Parkway, Hampton, Virginia 23669, served at Kindley Air Force Base with 1934th AACS/AFCS.  He writes: "I was a Teletype operator at the Base Communications Center and 1934th Air to Ground Radio Station. Teletype operations of the day required around 30 personnel to operate Air Force Communications around the clock. I hope to contact  Herbert Schlecht and his wife Hazel. Herb was from Pennsylvania and  Hazel was from Cheltenham, England. I enjoyed reading the exploits of others. I have many memories of pleasant times I experienced while on the island. Thanks to TSgt Howard NCOIC base communications center and SSgt Bean, Shift supervisor at the comm center for helping with my development in early Air Force training.  I also remember ZBM1 and 2 Radio stations which always played Wake-E-Wakey every morning. Some day I hope to return for a  holiday."

From June 1955 to June 1958, James Mathews, stationed in Bermuda, was one of the five technicians who set up and operated the Kindley AFB TV station, ZBK-TV, Bermuda's first. They loaded it at the factory in Michigan City, Indiana, trucked it and then flew it to Bermuda via Dover AFB.

From June 1955 to August 1957, Alexander J. "Scotty" Stewart - at email alexander.stewart@mchsi.com, of  329 Hilltop Dr. Gulf Shores, AL 36542 - was stationed in Bermuda with the 59th WRS, until reassigned to the 53rd WRS in Burtonwood, England. "Some of the happiest days of my life were spent in Bermuda. We had the Porgies SCUBA Club on the base and spent many weekends exploring the reefs and wrecks around the Island. This picture below was taken by me aboard a 60ft UT. boat about to head out towards North Rock in September 1956.  On board are some members of the Porgies SCUBA Club. Left to right: A/1c. LaPlant, Geiger, Major Harwood,  Harry White (civilian), George (Bermudian), the boat's Captain,  Airman Hughes and Sgt. Mears. A/1c LaPlant (59th) incidentally, was the person who won the competition to design the 59th Hurricane Hunter logo. "Pro bono publico." Members of the SCUBA Club were from various organizations on Kindley Field. Years later I  had  occasion to come back on business and was again diving with the late Harry Cox aboard the Shearwater.  It has now been 50  years almost to the day since I first set foot on the Island and hope to return yet again. Most happy to come across your web site."

In 1955, Michael Morris at 9216 Monhegan, Baker, Louisiana, USA, was born in Bermuda (but is not a citizen, see Bermuda Citizenship at www.bermuda-online.org/citizenship.htm) at Kindley Air Force Base. "My birth certificate is still a conversation piece. My dad was transferred back to the States shortly thereafter. About 1997, I returned with my family to visit Bermuda. It is the most beautiful place that I've seen. Our stay at the Princess Hotel was very enjoyable. One highlight of our visit was a return to our church - the Portuguese Evangelical Church. They provided me with a history book of the church. I don't know if we'll ever return because of the high costs, but thanks for this website that allowed me to "re-visit." 

  From January 1955 through December 1956, David Patrykus, ET2, now living in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. email dmpat@charter.net, was stationed at the USNOB, in Southampton Parish, Bermuda, as an Electronics Technician. He and three others  lived in the transmitter building up the hill from the main base on the peninsula. "We maintained all radio equipment on the base and on the crash boats which were deployed when launching or landing the Martin P5M Marlin's of VP-49, the aircraft of FASRON (Fleet Aircraft Service Squadron) 101 or Coast Guard aircraft. I have fond memories of my time in Bermuda and never forgot the kind, gentle and oh so polite Bermudians. Also, I recall the fun we had during College Weeks at spring break time.   My wife and I visited there on a cruise in 1997 and I found Bermuda to be just as I had remembered, if a bit more congested. The people were just as friendly as I had remembered.  Unfortunately, one of our old haunts, the Longtail Club on Front Street, was no longer in business.  We were able to enter the old base but it was sadly neglected with many of the buildings dilapidated and the aircraft hangars demolished.  My old transmitter building was in a sad state of repair, peeling paint, rusty, etc. and when I left the brass doorknob came off in my hand.  I took that as a sign and still have it for a souvenir. We hope to return to Bermuda again."

In 1955 and 1956, Larry J. Myers - now of  2539 Millers Woods Road, Boonville NY 13309-5020 - was stationed with Det. 10, 9th Weather Group at Kindley AFB.  "To me, Bermuda was like an enchanting young woman one could only dream about. I visited Bermuda several years ago. Kindley AFB was gone. The enchantment was gone. But the memories linger on. Here's a picture of our baseball team. You can email me at larry@postcardpost.com."

  From 1955 to 1956, Don Brown was stationed at Kindley AFB. "During that time, he and my mother, Ellen, lived off base in a pink home named Cartref's Cottage. I was born at Kindley AFB June 2, 1956 (but am not a Bermuda citizen by law) and since then I have been known as my mother's "Bermuda Baby." I'm Don and Ellen Brown's daughter, Donna (Brown) Slaten, of Rio Rancho, New Mexico. (Email Donna Slaten at Bermuda56@excite.com). My parents were sent back to New York by helicopter shortly after my birth due to some post birth trauma that my mother experienced. In 1979, I married, and my husband and I were fortunate enough to honeymoon in Bermuda. We found Cartref's Cottage, which looked identical to the old picture taken in 1956. We even looked up Rodney Brown and his wife Winnie (?) who looked after my young parents back in the 50's. Rodney was still playing and singing in the resorts which is what he had done for over 20 years. During our stay, we had a moped accident, and I was bandaged up at the hospital. We would love to go back for a vacation, but haven't made it back to Bermuda....yet. I love my legacy. My father died tragically in a plane crash in 1982. My mother is remarried and lives a couple of miles away."

From September 1955 to March 1956 A1C Jack L. Caldwell (now at 195 College Street, Macon, Georgia 31201) was stationed at Kindley with the 1934th AACS Sq. from September 1955 to March 1956 - not the usual tour of duty of 30 months. A teletype operator, he was transferred from Albrook AFB in the Panama Canal Zone. Many KC97 tankers were involved at Kindley. Hurricane hunters were WB29's. After the delights of Panama, where the only times the bars closed was on Good Friday, Bermuda was too quiet, too British, in the opinion of many hell-raising airman. This type of control did not sit well with him and he was happy to leave what everyone in his unit called "the Rock."  Plus, he thought the weather was dreadful. But there were compensations. In March 1956 he helped defend Elbow Beach Surf Club from those on spring breaks from Penn State. He could have extended his stay but elected not to.

From 24 December 1955 through 15 December 1958, Julio Miranda was an A&E Mechanic with The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, a member of WB-29 crew  44-94040. He writes: "It was the only B-29 in our Squadron to see action in W.W.II. I read  E. J. Slemmons's (see below) son is looking for pictures, I have a few plus the Hurricane Hunter Logo. My address is 2 McKenna Court Wallingford, CT 06492-3564." 

Sent by Julio Miranda, above

From August 1955 to August 1958,  M/Sgt. Solomon W. Johnson USAF was stationed at Kindley AFB. His daughter is Ann Johnson. He passed away 9/11/02.

From 1955 to 1958, Billy Lawrence Hairston (who passed away in 1995) was with The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters) based at KAFB. He was married to Montez Moore Harlston. Their daughter and son were born at the Kindley Air Force Base hospital, she in 1957 and Jeff in 1958.

From December 1955 to December 57, William Foster, Master Sergeant USAF retired, email DISAGT@aol.com - was based in Bermuda as an aircraft mechanic with the 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters). He writes: I arrived there on Christmas Eve and spent Christmas Day in the transient barracks. We left McGuire AFB, NJ, on a C-54 in sub-freezing temperatures and landed in sunny Bermuda wearing winter blues. It was quite uncomfortable. I remember the radio operator, Billy Hairston, mentioned in your site. It is remarkable that one of your posters recalled the tail numbers of the B-29s.I was a ground crew member on 2089. I have fond memories of Bermuda and its people. I have not returned but hope to go there by cruise ship in 2005. Thanks for your efforts. My address is 46 Waynel Circle, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548."

From 1955 to 1959, Ralph Butler was stationed at Kindley. His daughter Margaret Neubauer, 4 months to 4 years old at the time, who works in Panama City, Florida, wrote on 26 July 2002 and sent this: "The photo below is from our time at Kindley Field. In the first, my father is the second from the right, front row. We lived in the “Virginia Cottage” for one year when we first arrived in Bermuda, then moved on base to Bldg. 540. My husband and I will be visiting Bermuda 27 July to 31 July, and hope to be able to locate these two homes.  My sister was able to when she visited in 1993. I enjoyed the information on the military presence in Bermuda from your website. My father was retired from the Air Force in 1972 after 30 years of service. I was four months to four years old when we were stationed at Kindley Field, so I am looking forward to visiting the beautiful island of which I have a few memories. Thanks again for keeping the military history of Bermuda alive. "

From 1956, EJ Slemmons was a pilot with The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters) stationed in Bermuda. His son, Ted, was born at Kindley AFB. He is seeking pictures of a B29 Hurricane Hunter or design of its logo, believed to be a red hurricane shape hurricane warning flags in the middle. (See below).

Kindly sent by the late Julio Miranda, who served in the unit in Bermuda 24 December 1955 through 15 December 1958. He wrote, not long before his death in 2005: "This was the nose art on the WB-50's . I believe none of the B-29's had it."

Miss Hurricane Hunter 1956, with Lt. Col. Earl F. Dunphy, CO of The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters) stationed in Bermuda. 

Kindly sent by Julio Miranda, who served in the unit in Bermuda 24 December 1955 through 15 December 1958

From 1956-1957, Donald Hull - now  of Smithfield, VA, e-mail donhull@charter.net, was stationed at Kindley AFB in the 303rd Air Refueling Squadron.

From 01-04 1956, A/2c Donald K Shurtliff was assigned to KAFB, the 303 Rd Air Refueling Squadron  "Worked as an A&E mechanic on flight line with the KC-97 S  .Stayed 18 months until  06-15-1957. The best duty of my 5 1/2 year career. Departed Bermuda for Mountain Home AFB ID. Where I was Discharged 07-25-1958. 72375 Upper Way West,  Palm Desert CA 92260. dks1636@yahoo.net. 760-341-1184  home . 760-831-3377 cell. Would like to hear from you."

From July 23, 1956-October 15, 1958, Colonel Philip H. Best was in command.

From 1956 to 1958, Paul Tilton Jr.  - now of 118 Dogwood Drive, Henrico N.C. 27842 -  was stationed at KAFB as a Ground Radio operator with the 1934th AACS Sq. "I had the chance to fly with a buddy of mine with the 59th weather Sq. every time I could on my time off. I remember on 1 flight going thru a storm in the south Atlantic. losing 2 engines, having to abort to Barbados and blowing tires on landing, then waiting 3 days for repairs from Bermuda. I also went TDY to an island off the coast of South America to work radio for the recovery of space capsules during the space race . The best thing was I was in MATS and not SAC....I really enjoyed Bermuda as a 19 year old."

From 1956 to 1959, Troy L. Hanson, Lt. Col USAF Retired, now of Colorado Springs, CO, was stationed at Kindley AFB with the 303rd Air Refueling Squadron from 1956 into 1959 . "Our family was started with our two children being born in the new Kindly AFB Hospital  Steven March 22 1957 and Sandra March 8 1959.  We had a wonderful time living on your island and enjoying the Bermudians.  We lived in Normar Cottage next to Captain Stan Burns the Harbor Master. The 303rd ARS is planning its final reunion in Colorado Springs September 22, 2007. I would like to post your article for all to read. Again congratulations on a very interesting piece of research.  I look forward to our future communications." 

From 1956 to 1959, M/Sgt William J. Bloom, Sr, USAF was transferred from the Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona to KAFB in Bermuda.  He and family (including son Dr. Stephen Bloom now at University of Florida, Gainesville, 352-392-1951 (ext.239) 352-392-3902 (FAX) lived on-base. Prior to Bermuda and possibly there too, he was in the 64th Bomb Squadron, 43rd Bomb Group. He worked on KC-97 aircraft. In 1959, he was transferred to Barksdale.

From 15 March 1956 to 13 March 1960 , A2C John W. Cook was stationed with the 1604^th Air Police Squadron at Kindley AFB. “Living in Bermuda was a significant event in my life. I was 18 years old when I arrived, my first time away from my home in Indiana.  By the time I left four years later I was married and had a young son. I married Florence H. Cook, daughter of E.T. Sayer, OBE, editor of the Royal Gazette, in March 1958. We resided at “Hawk’s Nest," South Shore Devonshire. My son was born at the Base Hospital in February 1960, shortly before we left Bermuda for Germany. We made many return trips to the islands, our last in 2000. My wife and I are retired, now living in Rose Hill, Kansas. I can be contacted at email Cookieman1@cox.net" 

John W. Cook (a) at Main Gate and (b) his Bermuda wedding to Florence Cook

From 1956 to 1959, S/SGT Ralph Poole was stationed at Kindley AFB, at the 1604 MATS Hospital. "I thought Bermuda was the most beautiful place I had ever seen. The flowers, water, and snorkeling around the coral reefs kept me in Bermuda for nearly four years. I recently visited Bermuda with my wife Carolyn after nearly a 50 years absence. We stayed at the Grotto Bay Hotel and had a room overlooking a small part of what used to be Kindley AFB. An old taxi cab driver gave us a tour of the old base. Great  memories! The old Veterinary Building where I had an office  still existed but is now part of the Bermudian economy. A  retired Lockheed Martin Engineer, my e-mail poole_ra@yahoo.com and I  live in Auburn WA."

From 1956-1959, Boyd R. Lemon, SSgt, a teletype operator, was stationed at Kindley AFB. His son, John Lemon, started first grade at  Kindley Elementary School. He'd like to hear by e-mail from any other school attendees there at the time or after.

From 1957-59, Cliff Morris was in the Navy in Bermuda, based at the Annex in Southampton, pulling duty at the secret Tudor Hill submarine and surface ship detection facility. He also hosted a radio program on ZBM-2 that was sponsored by the Navy.

From October 1957 to October 1959, Ralph B. Coleman - known as Breeze -was a medic working at the Kindley AFB hospital. "Would love to do it all over again. I do not know why but I was given the nick name "Breeze" while I was there. Ralph B. Coleman, 243 Washington Ave, Scotia, NY 12302, rcoleman8@nycap.rr.com."

 On March 26, 1957, the late Larry Muller (he died in January 2004) was a young man stationed at Kindley. His daughter Traci Muller Rylands -   the Editor/Writer of High Schools That Work, (Southern Regional Education Board) wrote us. " He was the air traffic controller in the tower when President Eisenhower visited Kindley AFB and Bermuda specifically for a Summit Conference with British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan. Larry remembered his days in Bermuda with much pride and joy." 

President Eisenhower arriving at Kindley AFB on March 26 1957 and being met by British Prime Mister Harold Macmillan

From March 1957 to March 1959, Bill Satterwhite was at USNAS, Southampton, Bermuda and had many great times including at the Elbow Beach, Princess and Bermudiana (until it burnt down) hotels. After not having been in Bermuda since then, he and his wife Carol expected to visit Bermuda on the cruise ship RCCL's Voyager of the Seas in November 2005. During his tour of duty in Bermuda, he was assigned to the Special Services division.  A local gentleman was the Captain on his fishing boat, with the last name of Cartright or Cartwright. Anybody know where he is now?

From June 1957 to June 1960, Cdr. Sylvester A (Tommy) Thomas, VP 45, was at the USNAS, Southampton. His two children were Marilyn Thomas (now Hansen) and Marshall (Bud). They graduated from Mount St. Agnes Academy in Bermuda in 1958. They now live at 117 Bellingham Dr. Madison, Mississippi 39110.Marilyn writes: "I have lots of fond memories of Bermuda. My family arrived on the Queen of Bermuda into Hamilton from New York and my brother, boyfriend (future husband) and I left on a MATS plane after graduation from Mount St. Agnes Academy. The three of us spent many fun days, riding our bikes to little coves off base, swimming and enjoying peanut butter sandwiches. We rode to school on a Navy bus and if we missed it in the afternoon, got home via Navy Launch. The main sport that I remember from school was track and field. I know that the private school (Saltus) also in town was our biggest competitor, maybe our only one. Our uniform was a navy blue jumper with white blouse and a blue blazer. Most of our social activities were spent on base with movies, swimming, beach parties and our teen club dances with the kids from Kindley. We alternated sites and the Navy bus transported us back and forth. Fishing and golfing were popular with the guys also. At the beach parties, the girls made box lunches and these were auctioned off to the boy with the highest bid. My dad was executive officer of VP45 when we went to Bermuda and made commanding officer of  VP 45 before I returned to the states in 1958. My future father in law was in administration on the base. We had lots of musicals at school and ballroom dancing was part of the curricula. Our senior Prom was held at the Princess Hotel and we took a boat ride afterwards -- all of us singing the popular "Yellow Bird". Life was good. Great memories."

Kindly sent by Marilyn Thomas Hansen, above

From June 1957 to June 1960, L/Commander Ray L. Hansen was at the USNAS, Southampton. Sons were Ray (see above), Dennis and Nancy, also at Mount St. Agnes Academy.

In 1958, William and Lula Mae Housel were at Kindley. Housel Sr. married in 1957 when Lula Mae was 14 years old. Their son Tracy Lee Housel was born at Bermuda's King Edward VII Memorial Hospital on May 7, 1958.  They returned to the USA in 1959. The boy joined the US Navy as a young adult and was a submariner. He was given a death sentence for the murder of Jeanne Drew in Georgia on February 7, 1986 and executed by Georgia on March 12, 2002.

From July 1958 to May 1961, Lt. Col. Thomas J. Connair, Jr., was stationed at HQ 1604^th Air Base Wing at Kindley Air Force Base, Bermuda. Initially, he was the Base Executive Officer, and later the Base Inspector General. He and his partner, Sgt. Leamon Keel, were Kindley doubles badminton champions 3 consecutive years (1959-61), and he was the runner-up to Sgt. Keel in singles competition during the same period. He also competed in tournaments on the Island . He couldn’t resist taking up golf while in Bermuda and it became his favorite pastime. He was very involved in Kindley activities. He was on the Board of Governors for the Officer’s Club, President of the Holy Name Society, Secretary of the Kindley Little League, President of the Kindley Boy’s Club, and organized the youth basketball program. He and his wife Wilma enjoyed attending various functions at the Governor's residence, Government House to celebrate English & American holidays, etc. He retired from the Air Force in 1962 after 22+ years, including service in New Guinea & the Philippines during World War II. As a civilian, he was an editor for McGraw-Hill, Inc., and later worked as a volunteer teacher. He died on July 2, 1989, and was buried in the Dayton, OH National Cemetery. (Information supplied by Tom Connair (III) at email tconnair@cox.net, 116 Sotir Street, Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548-4320.

From May 1958 to May 1960, David Haynes served with VP-45 at the USNOB BDA as YN-3. "Lived in Somerset at By-The-Way Apartments on Mangrove Bay Road.  First child was born in Bermuda. Wife and I did not return until May 2006. Visiting Somerset was like stepping back in time. Very little changed, different owner of drug store, more vehicles.  Had a wonderful 8 day visit, and plan to return each year for as long as possible.  Current mailing address is 1011 Loch Lomond Dr, Arlington, TX 76012."

From July 1958 to June 1960, A2C Jerry Treloar & wife Delores - were based at KAFB Bda, R4360 Eng. Mech. - WB50s - PE Dock - 59th WRS - Hurricane Hunters - supervisor, Msgt William Machen. "Currently - Ret/Msgt/USAF/C-141 Flight Engineer ( 30 years C-141 aircrew training). Lived in Claytown on the north shore, just around the curve from the Bermuda Perfume Factory.  Rode a 125cc Norton motorcycle.  First duty assignment and were newlyweds. There has never been a better time in our entire lives than those 2 years in Bermuda. Deloris worked in Hamilton for a CPA, Mr. E. Brownlow Gray.  We were there for the following events: (1) Bermuda's 350th Anniversary graced by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillips personal appearances. (2) The U2 which lost all power and glided over 300 miles landing on our alternate runway.  I almost got hit by it, because I was short cutting across the runway as it was landing. (3) Several Navy blimps tied up for a couple of days on our overflow parking. (4) One of our WB50s went down without a trace just north of the island.  All crew members were lost, including a friend of ours, a young radio operator named Scott. (5) Four F100s took off in formation, passed through a cloud off the end of the runway and only 3 came out.  No trace of the 4th one. (6) Deloris and I were charter members of the first motorcycle club on KAFB sanctioned by the AMA.  We still have our jackets.  We took both our mothers to Bermuda in Jul 98, to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. We will be in Bermuda Jul 2008 to celebrate our 50th anniversary.  It was just as clean and beautiful as it was 40 years earlier.  Everyone in Bermuda are just wonderful.  WE LOVE BERMUDA !  Address: PO Box 742, Altus, OK. 73522  Ph. (580) 482-2826"

From July 1958 to July 1961, Lieutenant (jg initially, full lieutenant at departure) Paul A. Lamb (now Commander, USCG, Retired) - email pandel@worldnet.att.net - at 4300 Beach Drive SE, St. Petersburg , Fl. 33705 - served at the Coast Guard Air Detachment, Naval Air Station, Southampton, Bermuda . "Flew Martin Marlin (P5M) seaplanes and Grumman Albatross (HU16) amphibians. Lived at “Sunnyside” and later “Sunset Cottage” in Somerset. Drove a Ford “Prefect” which I brought to my next duty station when I was transferred. Enjoyed boating, fishing and skin diving. Also enjoyed the “bike path” that was at one time the railroad route. Children attended Sandys grammar school.  A favorite teacher was Miss Lilywhite, who was from England. Was active in PTA at the children’s school. Thoroughly enjoyed the Bermuda life style. I have not returned to Bermuda since my tour of duty there."

From August 1958 to August 1960, Wes Pleasant was stationed at Kindley AFB, Bermuda with The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters).  He writes: "While there I met and married my wife (a Canadian, there on vacation) and our first child was born there. Al Rae, who was there too, spoke of  an incident involving an AP who went berserk and started shooting up the place.  I was right next door, just down the hill from the AP HQ at the commissary when it happened. I was putting some groceries in the saddlebags on my bike when all hell broke loose just up the hill from me.  Last I heard they shipped the guy back to Walter Reed in a straight jacket. The worst Xmas I ever spent in my life was at Kindley.  On Xmas day everything on that island was closed except the civilian air terminal, which was across the runway from us.  We were using the WB-50 and I just found out that the aircraft had a reputation for killing people and I guess we contributed to that - we lost an aircraft with no survivors somewhere out over the Atlantic. Just disappeared.  Makes you wonder about that Bermuda Triangle stuff."

In 1958, Herb Miller was stationed at Kindley with the US Coast Guard. He now lives in Georgetown, Florida.

In 1958, Robert George was apparently stationed in Bermuda, but his dates of arrival and departure and with which unit is not yet known. Linda - email  - Lindahistory1@aol.com e-mailed this web site on 28 December 2004 to say she is his daughter, born in Bermuda in 1959, with his name attached to her Bermuda birth certificate records. She asked if anyone could help her with further information, it is assumed she meant among those who knew and worked with him  at the time. 

From January 1958-November 1969, Frank Morrison was based in Bermuda with the US Navy at Southampton, then Tudor Hill. His three children, including Sandra Morrison (who wrote this e-mail) were born in Bermuda. " "Tourists would see us on the dock at Mangrove Bay when the tourist boat pulled in, would encourage us to dive for coins saying "look at the cute native children." I attended Sandys Grammar School then Kindley High School.  All but one semester of my schooling was there.  It was lonely as we lived a long way from the high school, I must have read every book in the small library on the base, and watched every black and white movie ever made on ZFB and ZBM.  When we first got there, TV was only on from 5-9 pm. Kids in the states got cars, I got a boat.  Liked to go to movies at the base in the boat.  Have a lifelong love of fishing and become very "homesick"  if I don't live by the water (now on TX gulf coast)."

From 1958 to 1962, David Gruneisen, now of 3964 Hastings-Newville Rd., Lucas, OH 44843I, was in the USAF.  Permanently stationed at Langley  AFB, VA, he was an in-flight refueling operator on KB-50 tankers with  the 429th Air Refueling Squadron.  I spent many weekends in Bermuda between 1959 and 1962 because my aircraft commanders liked to play golf, and flew 10 hour navigation training flights that ended at  Kindley late Friday evenings.  We would spend the weekend enjoying  Bermuda (Swizzle Inn, Gunpowder Caverns, golf at lots of different  places, Elbow Beach, Horseshoe Bay etc.) before flying back to  Langley late Sunday night. I also spent considerable time serving TDY at Kindley as we assisted  the 427th ARS in refueling TAC aircraft going to and from Europe. I  remember one mission where we assisted in a search and rescue  operation looking for a downed WB-50 that was stationed at Kindley.  Never found a trace. I used to rent a "ring-ding" (scooter) from  Coral Island Scooters upon arrival each trip. My wife and I are visiting Bermuda in 2006, I for the first  time since 1962, and my wife Diana has never had the pleasure of  visiting the island. We're staying in St. George at a small B&B and  I sincerely trust that the town is as quiet and beautiful as it was over 40 years ago."

From about September 1958 to  September 20, 1959, Warren Lustwig was posted to the US Naval Operating Base, Bermuda. He is reluctant to give his home address to this website so it will not be possible for any former colleagues of his to reach him.

From December 19, 1958-August 12, 1959, Colonel George L. Robinson was in command.

From 1959 to 1961, Lieutenant Colonel Fellie F. Robinson was based at KAFB Bermuda as the commanding officer of the 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (The Hurricane Hunters).  The squadron flew daily on weather reconnaissance missions from Kindley on WB-50's, into all hurricanes and potential hurricanes in the Atlantic and Caribbean.  His family lived on Kindley AFB next to the base hospital.  While they were there, the Air Force built the high school directly across the street from the house they lived in and their son ( Richard F. Robinson attended that high school.  He was in his early teenage years when they lived in Bermuda and still has many fond memories of their years there. Colonel Robinson currently lives in Redland, California and has considerable information concerning his tour as commanding officer of The Hurricane Hunters.  His postal address is 642 S. Eureka Street, Redlands, CA 92373. There is a book called The Hurricane Hunters that describes the history of the 59th. It is fabulous reading. (Richard Robinson and his wife celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary by visiting Bermuda September 7 - 14, 2002).

From June 1959 to June 1961, Ronald L. Snyder, Airman 3rd class, was stationed at Kindley AFB as a KC97 mechanic. He was assigned to the 303 Air Refueling Sqd. His wife Marcellious Jewell Snyder joined him there. A  child was born in Bermuda. 

From June 1959 to 1962, SSgt Bernard Ulmer USAF was based at Kindley, with his family. He was a crew chief on the KC97. After reassignment to Alaska, he was reported as having drowned in 1969.

From 1959-62, Harry T. Randle lll was stationed at Kindley AFB.  His daughter Renee Baranek, nee Randle, wrote on 5 May 2002: "I was blessed enough to have been born on beautiful Bermuda.  My father was in The 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters), and navigator.  He flew C-124 propeller airplanes then, and later moved onto C-141's. Unfortunately, we had to move in 1962, after my brother was born, to of all places, Utah.  I have one clear vision of Bermuda, and one is not nearly enough.  Thanks to you, I have been able to see the military hospital where I was born, and the Officer's Mess where my father most certainly spent much of his time exaggerating his escapades with his buddies.  Sadly my parents both died quite young. My father at 44 and my mother at 43.  I cherish any remnant of memory or information about our lives together.  Thank you for your photos on this Bermuda website. "

  From January 1959 - December 62, MSgt Wayne W. Woodruff (Woody), served as a Flight Engineer on WB-50D aircraft assigned to the 59th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters) at Kindley AFB. In addition to military duties he dedicated his off duty time to the Kindley Youth programs serving as a Little League Baseball Coach, Manager and as equipment manager for all the Little League Baseball and Football teams maintaining and ordering new equipment as needed. He served as President of The Kindley Little League Association in 1962. Woody, wife Jeanne and their 4 children, Michael (Mike), Yvonne (Corky), Mark and Mitchell (Allen) resided at Fubler Villa, Cedar Ave. Hamilton the first 2 years then at the Rabbit Hutch, Turkey Hill Road, St. George. He retired from the USAF June 30, 1967 as a SMsgt. He flew For The Boeing Co as an Instructor Flight Engineer on 707/720, 727, 747 & 767 airplanes, retiring Jan 31, 1994. In March 2006 Woody, Jeanne, Corky and husband Laird, Mark and wife Deanna visited Bermuda and thoroughly enjoyed new experiences and reliving old ones. Jeanne and Woody live at 13611 14th Ave. South, Tacoma, WA 98444-2124 e-mail waynewoodruff@earthlink.net

From 1959-62, the father of Donna Sakanich Benham, at Decatur, Texas, was stationed at Kindley AFB with the Hurricane Hunters. She was in the 3rd, 4th & 5th grade but has vivid memories of those days. They lived in three different houses near the Harrington Hundreds area. She knew she was in a special place at a special time. President Kennedy came to the island and they got to see him and he waved at her.... she never forgot it. (She had a school friend, Harriet Larslier,  whom she would like try to find. She went to school on base but was a local or English. Her father must have been civil service or worked on base.  They lived on St. George's Island).

From January 1960 to January 1962, Tom Zimmerman was assigned to the SAC 303 ARS Security Defense Force, at Kindley Air Force Base, Bermuda. The 303 ARS flew KC-97's refueling B-47's over the Atlantic. He writes: "Witnessing a night air-fueling along side a Boom Operator was an experience I will never forget. Working all shift hours, I had time off to also work as a Lifeguard at Clearwater Beach. The money I earned as a Lifeguard allowed me to buy a 1956 Ford Anglia which was licensed for off-base use. Being an Airman with a little extra money from life-guarding, a car and a US Dollar that bought much more in Bermuda funds than it does today I was fortunate to experience the best Bermuda had to offer. Who could forget College Weeks, Gun Powder Cavern, Swizzle Inn when it was a neat quiet place with maybe a dozen patrons, Christmas in Bermuda, the Princess, Elbow Beach, Talbot Brother & Nephews, Hubert Smith, Front Street, Horseshoe, John Smith's, St. George, opening day at Carlton Beach and the beautiful smell of burning cedar wood, to name just a few. Bermudians adopted US Servicemen as members of the Bermuda Family and there was a mutual respect that many today would have trouble understanding."

From September 3, 1959 to June 21, 1962, Colonel Lester C. Messenger was in command.

  From January 1960 to January 1962, William Cummins (now of 720 Vera, Arnold, Missouri 63010, email william9103@sbcglobal.net) was at KAFB Bermuda with the 1934th AACS, as a Channel and Tech controller. He writes: "Initial duty was at the comm center located between the base theater and Base Headquarters.  I also lived in the Pink Palace across from the PX. I was later transferred to and lived at the Fort Victoria Receiver site. Great duty as we got separate rations and had our own little house. I really like your picture of Fort Victoria today - see www.bermuda-online.org/seestgeo.htm. Such a shame that the hotel was later built there, as Fort Victoria could have been a great tourist site. Only about a hundred yards - as the crow flies - from the Gunpowder Cavern - now, sadly, shut for decades - where I spent many happy hours. Also spent time at the circle bar in the Elbow Beach and the Princess Hotel downtown. I refer to my time there as two years in paradise. I plan to return in March 2005. Editor's note: he wrote on 10 August 2005 to say he finally returned in June 2005, via a 7 day cruise out of New York and was able to visit some of his old haunts. He returned to a shuttered Fort Victoria and found his old office all boarded up. "Things and buildings had certainly changed in 40 years but the people were as friendly as ever. Brought back some old memories and the guys I worked with. I wish I knew what happened to S/Sgt Dick Southworth and William P. Wood.  If anyone knew anything about them I would sure appreciate it.   Thanks again for a great web site."

From 29 Feb 1960 to 2 Dec 1962, Phil Spurlin was stationed at Kindley AFB with the 303rd Air Refueling Squadron "We lived on Spanish Point." He now lives in Biloxi, MS. He was a Staff Sergeant in charge of Aircraft Towing Operations for the 303rd Air Refueling Squadron. In July 2007 he spoke to and it was reported in The Royal Gazette Bermuda newspaper about the apparent disposal of waste oil at Kindley. “They had a wash rack where they washed the tankers. The engines on these planes must have slung quite a bit of oil on the cowling and wings which would be washed off whenever they washed the plane. Because of the high corrosion caused by the salt spray from the ocean, these planes were washed much more often than those in the States. I’m just guessing, but all the grease, oil and hydraulic fluid washed off the plane probably went down a drain into the ocean.”

  From March 1960 to March 1963 Jean Robert Menard was at Kindley AFB, with the 1934th AACS (Communications Squadron). Married to Riba, and with both in their 20s, they lived in Paget and St. George's Their son is Michael J. Menard. Please contact him at 2924 Thistledown Drive, League City, TX 77573 if you served in Bermuda about the same time as his father.

  From May 1960 to May 1962, Peter Balk  - now at 1270 Lavender Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 - was stationed with the 1934th AACS Squadron at Kindley AFB. "I Lived in the barracks across from the commissary. I was a radio operator on the base, providing support for military and commercial aircraft inbound and outbound. Had many good times there, on the beaches, at the hotels, etc. Lots of great memories. My wife and I went back to Bermuda for vacation in 1978 and stayed in St. George at the Holiday Inn there. I understand it was damaged badly later in a hurricane. We had a wonderful time. An employee of the hotel made arrangements for us to have a riding tour of the base with another couple. It was a U.S. Navy base by that time. Have been looking for people that were there at the same time, without much success though.  It's been too many years I guess."

From August 1960 to June 1963, Robert Cress was stationed at KAFB Bermuda with the 1934^th Communications Squadron as an air traffic controller. "I was a single airman and lived in the pink barracks across from the commissary. My rank was A1C. This was the greatest place I have ever lived and I will never forget the time I spent in Bermuda. Included are a picture of the Tower /Rapcon/Center that I worked in and a picture of me in the tower (great view). I recognize several of the people who have written to you. You have a great site and I visit it often. I am retired and my current mailing address is PO BOX 246, Solomon, AZ 85551.  My email address is azviejo@cableone.net."  

From October 1960 to October 1962, Glenn M. Kidd, Jr was a Dental Technician assigned to the USAF Hospital at Kindley AFB. "I accompanied a Navy patient with a broken jaw back to the states in July 61 and married my high school sweetheart while there. She joined me a couple months later and we lived in a cottage across the road from Pink Beach on the South Shore. My address is CMSgt (Retired) Glenn M. Kidd Jr, 3127 S. St. Rd. 29, Logansport, IN 46947."

From 1960-65 Sgt J. W. Harper, USAF (he died in 1986 when still quite young) was stationed at KAFB, Bermuda. He, his wife and daughter Denise (now Breidenbach, now residing in Cornville, AZ ) lived in Blue Hole Hill in Hamilton Parish and loved it there. His daughter attended 1st to 5th Grade at the KAFB school Bermuda. She would love to return one day.

From 1960 to 1963, late US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel William Edison Blagg, born in Maryville, Missouri, on September 17, 1918, a decorated veteran of two wars, was Provost Marshal and commander of 1604th Air Police Squadron at Kindley Air Force Base. As such, he was also the liaison officer between the USAF and the Bermuda Police. He headed the Kindley security arrangements for the visit to Bermuda by US Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson and later for the 1961 summit conference between President John F. Kennedy and Prime Minister Harold MacMillan. Several of the three children of Colonel Blagg and his wife Claire Elizabeth Cassell Blagg attended school in Bermuda - son Timothy A. Blagg (Whitney Institute); daughter Barbara Blagg Mosley (Kindley Air Force Base High School which later became Roger B. Chaffee School when under the USNAS and later yet the Bermuda Government's Clearwater Middle School). Colonel Blagg died in Dover, Delaware, in December, 2000. His youngest son, G. Daniel Blagg, is the author of Bermuda Atlas & Gazetteer -  the best book by far ever written on Bermuda - and was development director for Saltus Grammar School in Bermuda until he relocated to Italy in late 2004).

From July 1960 to July 1963, Senior M/Sgt Orville L. Willits, Jr. was based at KAFB, Bermuda, with  303rd Air Refueling. (He passed away 10 Oct 1985 of lung cancer).  His son Kim P. Willits was in the first graduating class of Kindley AFB High School in 1962.  He served in the US Army in Vietnam and Germany and has since retired from federal civil service. Kim's sister, Cheryl Ann, was born in the base hospital in Nov 1961. She is now married to an Air Force officer.  The Willits family first lived in Hamilton at Fenchurch North, then spent a few months in DeGink before moving to Bundy Street, also on-base. They lived across the street from the McIllrath's.

From 1960 to 1963, Ronald Slater (email winchester4440@iezpc.com. phone 1509-674-5781 now at I53I Masterson Road, Cleelum, Washington, 98922 - was stationed on NAS Bermuda, Public Works, with the US Navy Seabees. "As a enlisted sailor, all of us caught all the stuff the officers could dream up. The one thing they could not control was the women. For over forty four years, my wife Edna and I have been married. She was born and raised in Bermuda and has been my greatest fortune. The island was my honeymoon for over seven years. God, I loved it. I'm now a retired Helicopter Flight Instructor. My wife became the Seabee queen in I961 and still has her crown, and Bermuda figure. Rejoice Bermuda, she was one of your finest works. Her last name was Simons."

From January 1961 to December 1962, Bill McDonald was stationed at Kindley. He retired from the US Air Force and lives in South Carolina with his wife Peggy. He was assigned to the 1934th Communications Squadron (AACS) as a radio operator providing air to ground radio communications to all aircraft - military and civilian - in and out of Bermuda and many more transiting through the area.  He and his direct colleagues were unique in the Air Force in that they provided services for civilian airlines in accordance with an agreement with the Bermuda government. They worked out the Communications Building.  He lived directly across from the commissary in a barracks known as the "pink palace". He was promoted to E-3 and E-4 and turned 21 while in Bermuda. He met a friend that he had gone to high school with whose father was also stationed there as a boom operator on a KC-97. They lived for a while on Horseshoe Road overlooking Horseshoe Beach and later moved to a house in Paget. They had many, many friends among Bermudian teenagers and dated local girls. They had Cyrus motorbikes with high rise handlebars and low cut motorcycle seats. They modified their bikes with illegal second gears and with spring loaded lock-out devices in case they were inspected by Bobbies. They experienced Beach parties, water skiing, fishing, New Year's Eve at the Princess Hotel, entertaining the ladies during "college week" at the ducking stool and Black Watch Pass, drinking beer at the White Horse Tavern, doing the twist, seeing Chubby Checker at a Hamilton night spot, and eating lobster dinners in the basement of a Hamilton store at a cost of 1 pound sterling (then $2.82). Bill also remember the open houses at the base, hanger dances, happy hour at the Airman's Club, steak night at the dining hall and parties at Clearwater Beach. The B-29s referred to were actually B-50s (stretched B-29s with jet engines slung under-wing to assist the aircraft to get higher and go faster). WB-50s were weather (call sign "Gull Sierra"), KB-50s for refueling. He also recalls a B-47 plane crash (one of two in the Bermuda area, this one before the Cuban crisis), into the side of the hill across Ferry Reach off the end of the long runway, with a tennis court involved.

From September 1961-May 1962, James Chapman was stationed at KAFB, Bermuda.

From 1961 to 1963, Albert Fizer - email candls@citlink.net  - was stationed at KAFB, Bermuda. He writes: I was in crash rescue in the fire department when the B-47 went into the estate of Errol Flynn off the end of the runway in October 1963. I knew most of the high school kids there as we hung out in the base cafe together. I really enjoyed my days there  If any one wants to e-mail me, feel free to do so. I was friends with a girl named Linda Lee if any one knew her."

From 1961 to 1963, Jerry Zucchero, airman first class, was stationed at Kindley AFB, Bermuda, as a medical corpsman as the USAF hospital. "The pictures of the hospital bring back so many memories. My barracks were about 200 feet from the hospital. I do remember "nurse Olander" and Msgt. Dorris Barcroft whose names are mentioned on the website. I had so much fun there and I hope to go back someday."

From 1961-65, MSgt Leo E. Burke (deceased) was based in Bermuda with the 1934th Communications Squadron USAF. His wife was Agnes (deceased) and their children were Carl, Robert, Laura, Maureen, Christopher, Annmarie and William (born at Kindley Hospital). Carl writes: "Base housing for large families was in short supply and we were lucky to live on the "Economy" from '61 through '62 at Blue Horizons on South Shore Road near Dunscomb Road in Warwick Parish owned by the Augustus family. In 1963 we moved into the DeGink area on base. We lived in a four bedroom house at 1023-C DeGink (neither house nor unit are there now)  near the Kindley AFB Main Gate. After transferring to Travis AFB, in California, MSgt Burke retired after 27 years of service. Those wishing to contact members of the Burke family are invited to contact me at 2725 11th Ave. Sacramento CA 95818 or call (916)747-8781."

From May 1961 to May 1964, Gary Prowant served in the Air Force at Kindley AFB, assigned to the 1934th Communications Squadron. "My wife, Charlotte and I lived in Wooden Cottage number 3 at Buildings Bay at the time. We have three children (all grown now), Debra, Ronald and Ramona (Ramona was born in Bermuda in December 1962). He was assigned to the Base Communications Center as a Teletype Operator but was also responsible for operating the Base Switchboard Operations periodically. While working the latter one night I had the honor of meeting one of the seven original astronauts (Virgil "Gus" Grissom). Captain Kay was my OIC and Lt. Col. William C. Wilson was the Squadron Commander. In February 1962, I was a volunteer in efforts to search for a missing KB-50 from Langley AFB, VA which had disappeared in the Bermuda Triangle area, something I will never forget. After more than 20 years with the Air Force, I completed 21 1/2 years with Lockheed before retiring in Pflugerville, Texas after making 26 major moves (overseas/stateside).....our final home is here in Pflugerville and we purchased a motor home to travel the United States at our leisure. Our home e-mail address is: gprowant@gowebway.com"

From 1961 to 1964, SSgt Ellsworth L. "Pappy" Burks was based at Kindley AFB, as a KC-97 "Boomer."  He was accompanied by his wife Vera who was the manager of the small BX at the MATS terminal. The Burks were both survivors of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Their son, Wally, lived with his parents and worked at the on base service station. The Burks retired to Great Falls, MT where they both died and and where Wally and his family still live today.

In November 1963, the US Coast Guard detachment transferred from the U.S. Naval Station to Kindley because greater range could be gotten from its HU-16 Albatross aircraft by land takeoffs rather than water takeoffs. 

From April 1961 to May 63 Steve Kelly was stationed at Kindley, assigned as a photographer with the 1604th AB Wing, Kindley AFB, Bermuda (1968-71 #22648). On 08 July 2002 he wrote: "I remember clearly being in the middle of the Cuban missile crisis and flying over the shipping lanes in a SC54 trying to figure out how to work a camera I had never ever used previously. I spent numerous hours documenting in photos the crash of a RB47 during the missile crisis. It crashed into a hill just short of a large house, fully loaded with fuel."

From 1961-64, M/Sgt Dorris Barcroft (who died 2/5/83) was stationed at Kindley AFB, as a corpsman at the Kindley hospital. He was the father of Jane Barcroft. On 22 Jan 2002 she e-mailed from Memphis, Tennessee to say " I love your web site - a wealth of information. We have a picture of  him and Enis (the monkey who was in space and splashed down close to Bermuda!) taken at the hospital. There are five children in my family and my youngest brother, Timothy, was born in Bermuda in 1963. All of my memories of Bermuda are very special and wonderful Some of the best years of my life  were in 8th, 9th & 10th grade at Kindley High School. We lived in Smith's Parish - our house was called "Cotton Patch."  We returned to the United States in June, 1964 on The Queen of Bermuda. In July, my sister & I planned a trip to Bermuda and stayed at Harmony Hall in Paget. There was a "Reunion Cruise" planned for the week of 7/4 and many former students from Kindley High School returned to Bermuda. More than 38 years have passed since I lived there." Since 2002, still living in TN, she's been back to Bermuda often and has written two books of poems about Bermuda, Pink Sand Poems (2005) and Bermuda On My Mind (2007). Her email address is janebarcroft@timewarnerbroadband.com.

From 1961-1964, Thomas J. Harris (now at 12243 Raintree Drive, Panama City, FL 32404) was at KAFB Bermuda, with the 53rd Weather Recon SQ Hurricane Hunters.  He was the Crew Chief on WB-50 aircraft 337, the last WB 50 to leave Kindley. "It was a wonderful tour and I went on to stay in the USAF for 30 years. I retired in 1984 as a CMST."

From 1961-64, MSgt Charles R.  "Dick" Knerr was assigned to the 1934th AFCS squadron at KAFB. His son Charles Knerr, of  2707 Kidd Drive. Pantego, Tx 76013, email  CRKNERR@aol.com, writes: "After leaving the Air Force, he worked for a contractor at NASA. We lived off base on Bermuda, high on the hill near the Clay House Inn, Devonshire Parish.  Two siblings: Jerry David and Bonnie Lee. My mother: Anna Knerr. I attended Kindley High School and commuted back and forth by bus or using my motor bike, which I had "fixed" with an illegal gear. I supported this motorbike and other expenditures with a bag boy job at the Supermart on Front Street in Hamilton. My fondest memories of the north shore include listening to various American stars perform at the Clay House Inn, including Redd Foxx and Aretha Franklin. I enjoyed fishing off the rocks nearby.  The wonderful smell of cedar burning in our fireplace is still warm in my mind, as well as the sights of cruise ships and whales offshore.  I recall very vividly shaking the hand of John F. Kennedy in August 1963 when he visited Bermuda for a summit with the Prime Minister of England. I also recall learning of JFK's death, while riding a bus home from school that fateful day in November 1963. And I remember attending a "cricket" match on the first day, shocked to learn the game might last five days . . .  which it did!! I have often thought of returning. Island fever is in my blood . . .  perhaps it all started on the various islands of the Bermudas. Bermuda is etched in my memories.  . ."

From 1961 to 1964, Herman Tassoni (who retired from the USAF in 1972 and died on March 3, 1994 of lung cancer) was stationed at KAFB Bermuda as an aircraft mechanic, with his wife and daughter Theresa. She was four years old when they first moved there. She attended the first and second grade of the KAFB school on base. After Bermuda, they were sent to Dover, Delaware.  She writes: "Even though I was young while I was there I do remember some things, such as when President Kennedy drove past our apartment. I remember all the people who lived near us made signs to greet him and all us kids got to wave at him. He actually slowed down and rolled the window down to wave back at us. I remember how clear the water was and also the hurricane that hit the island while we where there. If there is anyone who remembers my father or was there at the same time as we were, I would love to hear from you. He always liked Bermuda but never had the chance to go back to visit. You could write me at 215 Orchard Drive, N. Cape May, NJ 08204 or email me at tass_0719@hotmail.com." 

  From 1961 to 1963, R. E. Greene, now of 1208 Allendale Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055,  (717) 691 0248, served at KAFB Bermuda, in the Bermuda Air Route Traffic Control Center with the 1934th AFCS. His colleagues included Gaible, Sundeen, McKenzie, Bowersox, Gatewood and Jolly. Memorable moments including meeting many entertainers at once-famous now gone local nightclubs and seeing the plane taking Mercury astronauts crash in Castle Harbour when learning to keep the capsule from sinking. He saw sharks in Castle Harbour at the time. He watched as two Canadian civil aircraft taking missionaries to Africa with a stop in Bermuda got confused, turned north in error and one crashed into the sea.

  From October 1961 to May 1963, a USAF officer - ultimately Brigadier General William M. Constantine - was stationed at Kindley AFB as a KC-97 aircraft commander.

From November 1961 to June 1963, Marvin D. Crawford was assigned to 1934^th Communications Squadron (AFCS).  "I came to Kindley fresh out of Radio Relay Repair school at Keesler AFB, MS.  I was a very young nineteen years.  I lived in the pink barracks across from the Base Commissary.  I worked in Mux Maintenance in P110.  My bosses were TSgt. Wesley H. Litten, TSgt. Roland Hughes and SSgt. James H. Oliver. Donald W. Foster, with whom I had gone to tech school, arrived the same time I did and we worked together while at Kindley.  I remember a local man, Rodney Tucker, ran the barber shop on base, which was located in the same building as my barracks.  My email is mdcrawford@earthlink.net."

From early 1962-63, Robert E. Jacob, now Captain USN, Retired, now residing at 613 Willow Valley Lakes Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584-9647, was assigned to the Naval Operating Base, Bermuda, with VP-49, one of the two seaplane squadrons based at what is now Morgan's Point. He writes: "At the time, I was a Lieutenant Commander. My flying assignment was as Patrol Plane Commander of a P5M-2 aircraft known as Woodpecker 8. A photograph of my plane taken in February 1962 along with WP-9 is included on page 190 in the Colin A. Pomeroy book "The Flying Boats of Bermuda". I gave a copy of it to Neal Stephens of The Reefs while visiting there in October 2004.  The Reefs can be seen just below the hull break on WP-9. During my tour with VP-49, we experienced the Cuban Crises and I was the initial O-in-C of the detachment sent to Guantanamo Bay to operate surveillance flights around Cuba. My family thoroughly enjoyed our stay on your beautiful island.  We lived at the Lantana Colony Club for several months upon arrival - regrettably, during our October 2004 visit  we could not get into the area to see it."

  From spring 1962 to the fall of 1964, Gary P. Brown was stationed at the US NOB (later the US Naval Air Station) Southampton. "My rank was ETN3 and I worked at the Tudor Hill Underwater Sound Lab. Commanding officer was Com Pinning. Frank Morrison was a Master Chief with whom I first  worked. This past week (June 2008) I returned to Bermuda on a cruise and revisited the base locations I remembered only to find them closed and barricaded, which was sad but things change.  I have so many good memories and experiences of Bermuda that will always be with me.  I hope someone I was stationed with will contact me at my email address, gbrown4@mi.rr.com."

From June 21, 1962 to May 27, 1964, Colonel Edward L. Jones was in command.

  From 1962 to 1963 Capt. William K. I. Manning, USAF, was the military obstetrician (OB-GYN), at the Kindley AFB Bermuda hospital. Children: William Jr;  Michael;  Leslie and Timothy. Wife Elizabeth. Michael at e-mail cowtown674@earthlink.net wrote this. "We lived in St. George's, then moved to a home across from the Swizzle Inn. Children attended school on base. One of life's most enjoyable experiences."

  From 1st January 1963 to December 1964, David Burgess - email DEBUNC@aol.com - was based at KAFB Bermuda. He now resides at 109 Rainwood Drive, Simpsonville, SC 29681. "I was stationed in the Headquarters Squadron of 1604th Air Base Wing. I was only 17 when I arrived. I reported for a while to Sergeant Agee Morgan and remember him fondly. Captain Mary Helen Pike was in charge of our office; her husband Captain Eugene Pike was Squadron Commander."

From April 1963-April 1965, James K. Hamilton - email jkhamilton@Charter.net  - was stationed at Kindley Air Force Base with the 1604th CES, crash rescue.  His oldest daughter Joanna was born June 24, 1964 at KAFB hospital. He left the base with the rank of A2C.  He is currently living at 103 Dagnall Circle, Laurens, SC.  He wrote: "Bermuda was a beautiful place but very easy for an airman to get homesick."

  From April 1963 until his death in December 1965, SMsgt Ralph W. Ferguson was stationed in Bermuda at Kindley AFB as a member of the 55th Air Sea Rescue Squadron.  He is survived by his wife, Doris, sons Ralph and Randy and daughters, Karen (Ferguson) Olander-Wells, Debbie and Vicki.

From June 1963 to June 1966, Jerry L. Tanner, then A2C - A1C, was stationed with the 1604th FMS, Hydraulic Shop, Kindley AFB, Bermuda. Now retired (1 Sept 1978), he lives at 3358 Timbersedge Dr., Marietta, Georgia. His family are wife Marylon, son Scott, daughter Phyllis. "My daughter was born on 12 July in the base hospital. We lived off base (1) Davis Cottage, Vesey St. Devonshire, (2) Jerry Simons House, Harrington Hundreds, Smiths, and (3) Locust Cottage, Harrington Hundreds, Smiths. We loved the entire 3 years, our daughter is planning (reservations made) to go see her birth place and take pictures of the ex-homes."

From July 1963 through July 1965, James Dowling was stationed at Kindley AFB. On November 2, 2000 he wrote: "One of the most beautiful places on Earth. I met my future wife on Elbow Beach. Have been back three times, last was in 1995. Going back to Kindley (then a Naval Air Station) I found it to be in the process of closing, took a ride around the base on my moped and felt like I was going back in time. Hope to visit again in the near future, the “Great Place & Great People."

  From 1963 to 1964 Douglas Belleavoine was in the US Navy and stationed at NOB Bermuda as an AOAN in the station armory.  "Myself, AOAN Tom
Rust and AOAN Joe Bonsey were transferred to Kindley AFB in 1964 to work at the newly established ordnance shop supporting the P3 squadron.
I married Pauline Fox, from Spanish Point, on July 7, 1965.  Our first son, Theodore, was born November 9, 1966 at KAFB hospital.  Members of the ordnance shop were AO1 Tim Flannagan, AO1 Sam Harris, AO1 Carl Bates, AO2 Mike Munfort, AOAN Jerry Moore and AOAN LB Rogers.  Red Tuttle was then and still is to this day my best friend.  I left Bermuda in 1967 but have returned several times to visit my wife's family.  We always stay with her cousin Pinky (Miss Pinks) and Baby Crane in St. George. My mailing address is 19687 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, MD 20653.  E-Mail address: bdaonion@md.metrocast.net.  I would like to hear from anyone stationed at KAFB from 1964 to 1967.  Thank you for an exceptionally fine web site."

  From 1963 to 1964, Andrew More, now living in Texas, was an air passenger specialist at Kindley Air Force Base. In July 2008 he told Bermuda's The Royal Gazette his job was to dump tons of human waste in a deep pit. He claims it has caused his ill health and stated he is asking for compensation.

  From September 1963 to September 1965, Edward Thompsett was stationed at KAFB, with the Navy Seabees. "I remember all the good times I had there.  I also played with two bands, one was the Lively Ones (bottom photo below) and the other was The Country Rhythm Boys (top photo below).  We played at all the service clubs on base, Airman's Club- NCO club and The Officers Club. We also did a big show at the base Movie house as some of the members of the group were being transferred to other duty stations as their tour was done in Bermuda,  I attach some pictures of the bands. My email is and my mailing address is 43 Heritage Rd. Clinton Corners, N.Y. 12514. 

Photos above sent by drummer Edward Thompsett mentioned above

  From 1963 to 1966, Jon Martino, from San Diego, California, was based in Bermuda, at the USCG Air Detachment and Station at Kindley AFB. He is now understood to be living in Seattle, WA. He is regarded as well-informed on Coast Guard matters in Bermuda at that time.

From 1963 to 1966, C. J. Berry - at email cjberry9@comcast.net - was stationed at the USCG Air Detachment at Kindley AFB until it was closed in 1966. "My rank was Chief Aviation Machinist's Mate. I now reside in Mobile, Alabama. My family and myself enjoyed our tour of duty in your beautiful island very much. We lived in "Dover Court" in Hamilton. Our children attended Mt. St. Agnes Catholic School. We have been back on a visit to Bermuda once since leaving Bermuda and it was great seeing the Island and some of our Bermudian friends."

From 1963 to 1967, Billy Lightfoot was based at Kindley Air Force Base, Bermuda, as an airman (E1-E3) working in the Aerial Port. He retires in September 2005 from the Georgia Air National Guard as a Chief Master Sergeant. (This information, previously unknown, was given to the author on 4th April 2005 by MSgt Michael E. Creo, First Sergeant 165 Aerial Port Squadron, Georgia Air National Guard, at email michael.creo@gasava.ang.af.mil, who will be grateful for any information by email or post from anyone who served with Lightfoot at the time in Bermuda).

From 1963 to 1965, Pat Branigan - now living at  3418 Frontier Street, Cheyenne Wyoming 82001, phone  307-633-4718 - was stationed at Kindley AFB, as an Air Policeman. He writes: "I worked with Jim Dowling who I have not heard from in all these years. I would  like to get his address (not known here in Bermuda) or have him given my address. I also have a picture of myself and Colonel Jones in 1963. I had wonderful friends in the local community that made my tour a memorable experience."

From December 1963 to December 1966 or  January 1 1967, Thomas L. Brogan was based at KAFB Bermuda, as First Sgt of the medical group. He was there when the base hospital was closed and converted to a clinic. His American wife, Caroline, and children Michael 17, Beatrice 16, Carollynn 12, and Pat 11 were all happy dependants. The family's introduction to Bermuda was Norwood House in Bailey's Bay, where they enjoyed sunken gardens, grass tennis courts, a small island that broke the water between them and the ocean proper. They then moved on base late in 1964 and enjoyed the many amenities the base and St. David's Island had to offer. They left Bermuda in summer 1966. 

"Around January 1964, my father, Technical Sergeant (E-6) Lowell (Micky) W. Belter, was in the 55th Air Rescue Squadron at Kindley Air Force Base.  Our family (my mom & dad, my two brothers, and one sister) lived at "Blowwinds" on North Shore Road, Pembroke. My father was on the HC-97 aircraft assigned to Kindley AFB. His aircraft was assigned to NASA to train for the recovery of Gemini spacecraft as the last few Mercury flights had overshot the aircraft carriers by about 90 miles, and NASA was considering reassigning that mission to the US Air Force from the US Navy. On June 29, 1964, my brothers and I were swimming around 11 am before getting dressed for British schools afternoon session (I was in the 3rd or 4th grade) when my dad's HC-97 and the C-54 from the Azores flew over us, wagging their wings. The aircraft flew in formation over Castle Harbour and then moved about two miles south of Castle Island.  One plane had parachutists to practice jumping into the sea, while the other aircraft was taking pictures. They were flying about 1,000 feet above sea level. The first jumpers left the plane, and the C-54 banked to offset the lost weight.  The HC-97, with more powerful engines, did not bank, and the two aircraft collided. This created such a fireball that it was seen by many people on the beaches miles away along Tucker's Town and John Smith's Bay. There were 12 men aboard each plane, for a total of 24.  19 personnel were killed, and the five who survived where parachutists who had either just jumped or were about to.  Rescue craft were only able to recover nine bodies (not my father's). Astronaut Scott Carpenter, who was over at the Navy base working on SeaLab, attempted to recover remains, but the two mile depth prevented this About two weeks later, my family and I left Bermuda on USAF transport back to the states. The next year, the Gemini program began, and was able to accurately land almost next to the aircraft carriers. Mike Belter, email mbelter@prodigy.net, 4275 Big Sky Court, Gahanna, Ohio 43230, USA.

From July 1964 to July 1965, 1 Leut. KA Zebrowski USAF was based at Kindley AFB Bermuda with MATS.

From July 13, 1964 to July 18, 1966, Colonel Oren J. Poage was in command.

From May 1964 to May 1966, Pete Cesere, at email pjcintc@yahoo.com served in the USAF at KAFB with 55th Air Rescue. "It was my first assignment after Tech School. I'm looking for any others who served at the same time. "

From 1964-65, Al Harvey SN was based at US Naval Annex in Bermuda.  "Worked in boathouse and on crash boat.  Spent 6 weeks at Kindley Hospital.  Email Al at goneclamming2000@yahoo.com as he would like to hear from anyone who served with him.

From 1964 to 1967 Bill "Red"  Tuttle was stationed in Bermuda, at both NOB and Kindley. "At NOB I mess-cooked and at Kindley I was in the Naval Aircraft Support Detachment NASD (see badge below I sent you on July 30, 2008). I have been in contact with Jim Bayersdorfer, Doug Belleavoine and Freddie Platt. It would be great to hear from any other shipmates who were stationed there during our tenure. I can be reached at email SHANEENGRAVING@AOL.COM. Please ID yourself as a Bermuda shipmate in the "subject" block. "

USN's NASD

From 1964 to 1965, Phill Bee was a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman & surgical Tech at the US NOB at Kings Point, Southampton. "I supervised and ran the Operating Room Theatre at the dispensary." He married a Bermudian and now lives in Seminole, Florida 33772. 

From July 1964 to July 1966, Dr. Barton Spitz now of San Diego, California, was at Kindley, with his wife. He was Chief of Surgery at the Base Hospital. Sometimes, he assisted local surgeons at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital. His youngest son, Scot, was born at Kindley. Dr. Spitz understands he does not have dual citizenship even though Dr. and Mrs. Spitz wife think of him as their most valuable Bermudian gift. Dr. Spitz retired from the practice of surgery four years ago. 

American Military Personnel Based in Bermuda from 1965 to 1995

Associated sites links

• American Military Bases in Bermuda from 1941 to 1995
• Bermuda Forts by British Army
• British Military Graves in Bermuda
• British Army in Bermuda
• Canadian Forces Station Bermuda
• Former US Military Hospital, KAFB/USNAS Bermuda
• Kindley High School Alumni Association (KHSAA). (By Jon Dorrough, Kindley High School '65).
• Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda.