Add your Harmon Memories hereEntries from July 3, 2012 to 2018
Date/Time of Posting: Jul 03 2012 / 14:36:28
name = Kenneth A. Smith
where = Mesa Az.
Harmon_Memories = Hi, Yep. I was TDY there twice. Once in winter 1956 and again in the summer 1958, I was with the 55th A & E from Forbes AFB Kns.We were a sqdn. of K C -97's. The times there were good and everyone was open to the military. There were many changes in the times and for the good. A few of us old guys have been thinking going back for a week an see the changes and have a get together. Anyone from the 55th, would be nice getting and "E" mail. Ken.
ksmith4878@cox.net
Date/Time of Posting: Jul 04 2012 / 12:49:38
name = Dana Downs Newman
where = Arkansas
Harmon_Memories = My dad was Major T. E. Downs, we were stationed there twice and I loved it. I remember playing with kids that lived right off base and helping gather in their hay with horses! I remember all of the skating we did at the rink but also in our back yards. I have two sisters who were born there and we all have many fine memories of Harmon. My sisters and I have talked about visiting. I can still remember riding the base shuttle bus to the golf course and then going down to the ocean by myself! What an awesome childhood...we were there for a total of 8 years with the last being the 60's
Date/Time of Posting: Aug 12 2012 / 22:58:24
name = Roger D. Jones
where = Pataskala, Ohio
Harmon_Memories = Spent two tours at Harmon. 1957-1960, 1962-1964. First tour 323rd Fighter Sqd. until I changed to SAC and worked AFRTS the remainder of that tour. Second tour. Chief Engineer of Radio and TV. Spent a lot of time on the Air,Both Radio & TV. Air Name, "Smilin' Roger "D". Ended up at AFRTS, Hollywood, Calif. Asst. Branch Chief for TV. Retired last day of 1968 as a MSGT. Moved to Reynoldsburg, OH, Worked as Engineer at WTVN/WSYX chan. 6, ABC, 1969-1989 Columbus, OH. WWll Vet. 1943-1946. U.S. Navy. Combat Aircrew, TBM-3E Avenger, Carrier, USS Kitkun Bay. Pacific Theater. I'm 86, there aren't many of us left.
Date/Time of Posting: Aug 12 2012 / 14:18:44
name = Diane Macdonald
where = Newfoundland
Harmon_Memories = Hello, just checking in , wondering if anyone can remember S/Sgt Robert Randolph and his wife LaVerne. On their way back to the United States, I believe it was around 1960 to 1961, they broke an axle on their trailer. Leaving it with my father. We would like to get in touch with any of the family, there are quite a few photos and papers they may like to have. Thanking you in advance. Diane diane.macdonald2010@hotmail.com
Date/Time of Posting: Sept 12 2012 / 22:03:17
name = Margie (Neeson) Jackson
where = Henderson, Nevada
Harmon_Memories = My father was Norm Neeson the AF Mortuary Officer at Harmon from 1959-1966. We lived on Colonial Ave off base then into base quarters on "no name street". My two younger sisters were born up there. I spent a lot of time at the Hospital Commanders house Colonel McDonough. Col. Davis the Base Commander and his wife came to Torrejon AB, Madrid Spain to visit us we were posted there upon closure of Harmon. My babysitter was Sheila Hollander her father was the school principal. I went back twice now my last trip was in 2006 the base is frozen in time. Was so exciting to see it again and I got to see Sheila again as well she now lives in Corner Brook. Dad knew about everyone on the base. Remember the Bob Hope shows, the new Officers Club and all of it's glamour, rumor was that the Squadron Commanders' wife Gina Goyt did the club up the way she wanted it. That spiral staircase and all the red and gold inside was awesome! Gosh the memories just flow whenever Harmon comes up. I could go on and on so if any of you out there would like to email please do so as I would love to hear from anyone. I have all the yearbooks from 1961-1966. STNKER@cox.net
Date/Time of Posting: Oct 26 2012 / 15:17:17
name = Cheryl Caster Beck
where = Fort Worth, Texas
Harmon_Memories = My eyes are filled with tears after reading all the memories. I don't think there was a single person who didn't love the time they spent at Harmon. We lived there 61-65. My brother Rick graduated in 1965. He had a band called the Unknowns with a local drummer named Cecil. I loved sledding down the hill across from the house. Came across this blog searching for the date of the big snow storm with no electricity for 3 days. Still don't know the date. Teen Club, riding the shuttle bus, those little tape decks that all the teenagers carried around, picking berries, going on the jetty. Jeanie Downs, Wendy Wilkerson, Steve Barr. the Podgorski's lived next to us and there was a family with about 10 kids that lived in our circle. We've been to a couple of reunions. Times were great at Harmon. Best days of my life. Transferred from Harmon to Homestead AFB, Florida. What a culture shock!The lobster, moose and great milk. My brother was on a kids show and played Ricky Surprise. Dad had to deliver the sad news to families of the men killed in the plane crash at the end of the runway. We camped across Newfoundland for weeks when dad had his vacation time. Too far to go back to the states. And we wouldn't see a soul the whole time, except moose. Loved my life then. Thanks for all the memories.
Date/Time of Posting: Nov 09 2012 / 15:59:05
name = Charlie Laper
where = Greenville, Michigan
Harmon_Memories = Went with the original 61st Fighter Squadron (July, 1953).. we had Lockheed F-94 B jet fighters..early that winter,we got Northrup F-89 C jets, and the following summer we got brand new F-89 Ds straight from the factory...besides being a crew chief, I also played drums (during off-duty hours) in the various Clubs on the base....Airmen's Club, NCO Club, Officer's Club and the Civilian contractor's Club..rotated back to the USA (along with my buddy- Bob Kropewnicki) in July, 1955 and for our last year in the USAF, we were in the 432nd FIS at Mpls-St Paul Int'l Aprt where we also had F-89 Ds..while there, I participated in playing drums in the USAF "Tops In Blue" talent show (MC was Jerry Van Dyke - brother of Dick Van Dyke)..we played in Duluth, Rapid City, and Travis AFB, Calif....Bob & I were relieved from active duty June 23, 1956, and returned home to Greenville, Michigan
Date/Time of Posting: Jan 30 2013 / 08:09:03
name = Nelson Doucette
Harmon_Memories = I live in st.John's newfoundland. Originally from port au port newfoundland. I worked on the Harmon from 1955 -1960, worked in all the Mess halls as a Cook trainee. Also worked with J.A .Jones Construction as labourer. I recall Paul Johnson with J.A ,Jones who was superintendent. He was very nice to me. I also recall Staff Sgt. Johnson when I worked in the hospital Mess.
Date/Time of Posting: Feb 12 2013 / 09:35:55
name = James Knapp
where = State College, PA
Harmon_Memories = I arrived at Harmon in March 1965 from Beale AFB in California. I was the OIC of Material Control with the 4081st Headquarters Squadron. My time there was great, enjoyed the experience. Unfortunately with the base closing I left in June 1966, and went to 8AF HQ at Westover AFB. Very fond memories of Ernest Harmon AFB.
Date/Time of Posting: Feb 22 2013 / 16:49:34
name = monte bona
where = mt. pleasant utah
Harmon_Memories = I was at HAFB from Feb. 1957 through Dec.15,1958. 1933rd AACS. Fond memories of Burton J. Bergeron, Bob Griffiths, Merlin Harris, Lloyd Monsen, Francis Gappmeyer, LeGrande Anderson, and so many more. Base theater, Stephenville, classes taken from the University of Maryland,especially remember Mr. Wilson who taught international relations, international organization and more--great memories all.
Date/Time of Posting: Apr 01 2013 / 18:31:27
name = Gary Damewood
where = Florida
Harmon_Memories = Winter of 1960-1961 was a rugged one, most snow I've seen in all my life. Had to eat powdered eggs, drink powdered milk because we could not get fresh supplies in. Also had to send out the AP's to get the Moose off the runway so we could land & take off planes.
Date/Time of Posting: Apr 02 2013 / 10:37:30
name = Brigitte (Truesdale) Garfield
where = Tucson Az
Harmon_Memories = My father was a medic at the base hospital - My sisters and I went to the base elementary school - guessing about 1965-1966. Only remember 1 kid - Gary Weeks or Meeks? Do remember those orange/red balls on really long car antenna so we could find our cars buried in the snow!
Date/Time of Posting: Sept 10 2013 / 08:46:26
name = Jerry Olson
where = Duluth Minnesota
Harmon_Memories = Hello my name is Jerry Olson. My father Robert Olson served at the Ernest Harmon Air Force Base 105th Ac&w 1951-1953,he was in the teletype division, he met my mother Ann Marche there. They got married the and two of my brothers were born there on the base. He took her, my mother and my two brothers back to states and they had seven more children,am the seventh child.My father just turned 80 years old in July and he's doing great, so is my mother and my family. If there's anyone out there who remembers my father there, am sure my father would love to hear from you and if you have any photos that would be great too. Thank you Jerry. jerolson21@gmail.com
Date/Time of Posting: Nov 07 2013 / 13:52:07
name = Wendy
where = OKC, OK
Harmon_Memories = My father "Boz" or "Bill" (William Bozeman) -as friends & coworkers called him--was in the 91st Supply Squadron under commander of George Pfeiffer Jr. at Harmon AFB in 1962-early 1964 (when shipped back to stateside at Glasgow, Montana then on to Idaho...where he passed in car wreck in Aug 1978. He rcvd. an Airman's medal of valor in mid 1965 for a heroic effort in mid 1963 at Harmon AFB with a fire & tanker truck fill up (NFLD was his 1st overseas deployment spot)....have the article---he was so tickled with himself Anybody from that era...please, contact me....love to hear stories of my father. I've been to visit with him on gravesite & my biological siblings for the 1st time in Aug 2013....It was GREAT..I understand myself more...cuz my brother (6mos younger than myself is just like me & my personality) Having had 2 dads both in USAF at Harmon....who could be so lucky....NFLD is great place to be from....maternal family still live on the ROCK.
Date/Time of Posting: Nov 07 2013 / 23:08:49
name = Roger H. Luscombe
where = Boardman, OH
Harmon_Memories = It's ironic that my wife Sandy found this website just before our 50th Wedding anniversary. We were married on Nov 9, 1963 in the Ernest Harmon AFB Base Chapel. I was stationed there from August, 1963 till February 1965, assigned to Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. There was some resistance to our wedding from some base officials, but greater support from many and the wedding took place, and the marriage has lasted. And so have the many memories of Harmon. I was "Jolly Roger" on VOHF Radio Station and have so many memories with so many people I knew for such a short time. The only one I am still in touch with is Erroll Kappelesch who was also on the radio station with me. I would like to know what happened to others or hear from the people we knew at the base, such as Chaplain Rothman (who married us), Sgt Bob Knowland who was such a help to us (and who I also served with at Lowry AFB in Denver before Harmon), SSgt Bob Olsen who was the radio station manager who came to my rescue often, and others, including Mike and Lonnie Dean, Rick Schrogge, J. Wayne Lewis, Frank and Cindy Veverka, Al and Carol Kamin, Sheila and Bill Hill, and John Hartnett and Roger D. Jones who already have posted their memories here. I would love to hear from any and all. My e-mail address is jollyrog2@sbcglobal.net
Date/Time of Posting: Dec 17 2013 / 19:50:51
name = Donald Mosier
where = Barracks that served 1933 AACS Sq
Harmon_Memories = I arrived at Ernest Harmon AFB in the fall of 1955, directly from FE Warren AFB, Technical School, being assigned to the 1933 AACS Sq. In about February the Base announced that there would be tryouts for the Base Volleyball Team which would compete in the NEOC Volleyball Tournament at Argencia NAS starting on or about 12 April 1956. Our Squadron was well represented Sgt Leon Y.I. Lum, A/!C Allen Weinraub and myself A/2C Donald Mosier. There were 13 Airmen on the team, with Captain Schlemm, from the 6605thABWG, the Officer in Charge. Are there any one out there that remembers?
Date/Time of Posting: Dec 18 2013 / 11:54:45
name = Joe Fiorillo
where = Washington DC
Harmon_Memories = Lived in the brick barracks with the elevators and chow hall attached. Was with the helicopter detachment there and we keep out helicopters in the MATS hangar down by the fire station. Still remember great nights at the Clover Club and French Casino.
Date/Time of Posting: Jan 16 2014 / 18:44:41
name = Laura Aylward
where = Stephenville, NL
Harmon_Memories = My husband Kevin Aylward and I worked at Harmon until 1966 when the base closed, Kevin worked at Base supply in the warehouse and I worked as a switchboard operator/supervisor, we met many good friends there that we still keep in touch with today. I have been trying to find Thomas Twigg he was with the 1933 Comm Sqdn and was from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he would be in his late 60's, he was stationed here in the early 1960's.
Date/Time of Posting: Mar 02 2014 / 14:00:30
name = Kohleen Kittrell
where = Denver, Colorado
Harmon_Memories = My father was stationed there at Harmon Air Force base in 1957 to late 1958, I was born at the base hospital. Though I was too young to remember anything about the base, or Newfoundland, my father use to tell us stories of Harmon and Stephenville. I have some old pictures of when my parents lived there, and some of Dad's buddies from the base. Dad took me back to Stephenville in 2008 because he wanted to show me where I was born. I laughed because Dad said that it didn't look the same to him, course it had been over 50 years since Dad had been there. Some day I hope to return to Stephenville, and have another look around, we didn't get to see much when we were there in 2008. Dad has since passed on, so all I have left is the memories that he had shared with us as kids growing up, and the few pictures that were taken while him & mom lived there.
Date/Time of Posting: Apr 20 2014 / 13:23:42
name = James E. "Jim" Vanderberry
where = Bossier City, Louisiana
Harmon_Memories = At an early age of 18, 1948, I was stationed at Harmon Field as the Surgical Technician from 1948-1951. I returned to Harmon AFB Hospital in 1965 as a CMSgt and closed the base in December 1966. I married Catherine Kays who was from Prince Edward Island. Her father owned the 7UP beverage in Stephenville. I retired at Barksdale AFB and we live in Bossier City, Louisiana. The Base Commander in 1966 was Col. Leonard Eddington. Would like to hear from any old Harmonite/or Newfoundlander. jcvberry@webtv.net
Date/Time of Posting: May 29 2014 / 02:43:09
name = Vivian
where = New Hampshire
Harmon_Memories = 1963-1965, I remember welcoming men and women home as they transitioned to the states from other bases. Stephenville was a different world. Guess that is why it's remote!
Date/Time of Posting: Jun 10 2014 / 20:26:52
name = Brenda Peters Cooper
where = Hattiesburg, Ms
replyemail = nursebpc@aol.com
Harmon_Memories = Dad stationed at Harmon '59 to '62. Attended elem. 4th, 5th and 6th grades. Dad worked at the terminal, Msgt Ted "Pete" Peters. Loved our time there. Lived on base and walked to school first 2 years, 6th grade was near the HS and rode bus there. Noticed Norm Beria posted years ago,I remember him. I loved the Teen Club and kiddie bingo at the NCO club on Sundays. Sister Debbie and little brother Petey.
Date/Time of Posting: Jul 01 2014 / 17:35:02
name = Norm Pinhorn
where = Manuels, c.b.s., Newfoundland
Harmon_Memories = Worked with the Royal Bank in Stephenville 1956-1960. Spent a lot of off hours on Base....introduced to the slot machines {jackpot -12.00} ----had 8 boarding houses with some wonderful people. It was a great place to live and I have some wonderful memories.
Date/Time of Posting: Sep 12 2014 / 17:16:45
name = Manny Gomes (ace)
where = Fern Park, FL
Harmon_Memories = I was stationed at Harmon from April 1962 - Oct 1963. I worked in the motor pool and as a pol augmentee. was there for the big explosion during the 1962 Cuban missile crisis. Just found this site and saw that Tom Simpson was looking for me and some of the other guys.I had some good friends and good times there but found it a little too rural for this Bronx boy. hope someone remembers me.
Date/Time of Posting: Nov 18 2014 / 13:00:23
name = Linda Lee Strawser
where = Fort Smith AR
Harmon_Memories = I was in base Dependents School Primary grade,1st, in the year 1951/52. I'm just trying to piece my past together, and wondered what grade I was in, when I left, for California. my parents were Charles W. Strawser, and mothers name Raoma C. Strawser, any help would be appreciated. any records, or organizations that might help me. Thank you Linda Isham
Date/Time of Posting: Nov 25 2014 / 19:17:44
name = Debbie Nessamar
where = Americus, GA
Harmon_Memories = My dad Russell Nelson was a USAF fighter jet pilot and stationed at Ernest Harmon AFB in the mid-fifties. I was born there in May 1956 at the base hospital to Diana Farquhar Nelson. While he was later stationed in Victorville, Calif., my dad died during a training or mission flight as he flew over New England. Incorrect navigation instructions led him to run out of fuel in transit. Ejecting after clearing a populated area his altitude was too low for the shoot to save his life. I was three and my brothers were four and almost two. I know very little about my Dad's time there. A photo of a toddling me in a snowsuit looking like the Michelin man and a story my mother, who died of MS in 1989, told of driving herself to the hospital while in labor stand out in my memory. If you knew Russell Nelson I'd enjoy knowing anything about his time there.
Date/Time of Posting: Dec 21 2014 / 16:31:12
name = Charles E Bouchard
where = San Antonio, TX
Harmon_Memories = I arrived at Harmon assigned to the Comm Squadron Crypto Maintenance in 1964. My memory's too fuzzy to remember exactly when. I worked at Combat Operations Center Crypto under George Hamilton. I remember Scott Clough, Ed Hetsko, Dave Griffith,(my immediate boss), and John and Phyllis Sinski. I flew back to Westover AFB in March 1965 and married my fiancee, my wife of 49 years now. I bought a little 28 foot house trailer and Patti joined me on my accompanied unaccompanied tour, hitching a ride with Ed Hetsko and wife and kids, riding the whole way on top of clothing, luggage, bedding etc., all the way from Westover. So much more to remember in such a small space. Write.
Date/Time of Posting: Jan 12 2015 / 06:53:17
name = Richard Hayes
where = Toledo Ohio
Harmon_Memories = Was stationed at Harmon Field 1964 through 1966. Wondering if anyone remembers the tanker crash into the deep pond at the end of the runway after hitting the approach lights. As a base policeman I remember going to the divers shack used for retrieving the bodies and aircraft parts by Navy divers from Argentia. In the shack were photos of the plane in the pond several hundred feet down on a ledge. The pond was supposed to be over 1000 feet deep. The photos were very eerie. I've never been able to track down any info regarding this horrible crash. Anybody remember it?
Date/Time of Posting: Jan 12 2015 / 15:22:19
name = Paul Forehand
where = Tomball, Texas
Harmon_Memories = Richard, I was at EHAFB when the KC97 Tanker Aircraft crashed at the end of the runway during a snowstorm December 1965. I think the aircraft attempted a landing with the props reversed to slow down and tried to take off without changing the props position. This brought the aircraft down and into the water.
Date/Time of Posting: Mar 07 2015 / 05:02:33
name = George Hamilton
where = Dover, Delaware
Harmon_Memories = My father was stationed at Harmon from July 1963 to July 1966 at Comm Squadron (Crypto Maintenance). I have the Church Bulletin for the Memorial Service at the Base Chapel for the KC-97 Crew that crashed into Noels Pond. Contact me if you would like a scanned copy. Mr. Charles Bouchard from Texas, please contact me concerning your Dec 2014 posting. Would like to communicate about my father.
Date/Time of Posting: Jul 08 2015 / / 19:15:08
name = Glen Plagge
where = Apple Valley, MN
Harmon_Memories = I was stationed at EHAFB from 1964 to 1966 in the Data Processing area. One good memory was in January 1965 when I bowled in the Association tournament. I bowled the first 700 series of the association in the team event at the lanes in Stephenville. I was lucky enough to win Singles, All Events and was on the first place team. I bowled with Cliff Sprung in doubles (both left handed) and would like to hear from anyone that bowled at that time. I would also like to get a copy of that memorial service for the crew members that lost their lives in the KC-97 crash. My email address is Glen01@frontiernet.net
Date/Time of Posting: Aug 05 2015 / 11:49:36
name = Gus Norman
where = Dobson North Carolina
Harmon_Memories = I was at the 640 ac&w sq from August 1956 to August 1958 would love to hear from anyone there at that time. We would ride the old truck down to Stephenville on days off and some times go to Corner Brook or Deer Lake. My buddy married A girl from Deer Lake last I heard they were in Tennessee. Would love to hear from them.
Date/Time of Posting: Sep 04 2015 / 10:33:48
name = Charlene Hatt
where = Windsor, Ontario
Harmon_Memories = My dad, Charles W. Giffin, was with the 6602nd at Harmon in 1951/52. He passed away in 1976. I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers him. If Andy Anderson from a 2006 posting could contact me, I'd certainly appreciate it.
Date/Time of Posting: Sep 17 2015 / 10:21:47
name = Debra Coughlin
where = Stephenville, NL
Harmon_Memories = Hi everyone, As many of you are aware, the Stephenville Cultural Development Committee is preparing for The Friendly Invasion 2016, a party that will celebrate the connection between the American military and the people of Stephenville and area. Can you believe it has been 50 years in 2016 since the American flag was lowered? So many memories! We are looking for photos of the overpass being built, visits from celebrities, dances, and sporting events. We would like to utilize them on storyboards along the heritage trail. Also, if you have a story to share with the photo we would love that too! If you can help please contact me at ddccoughlin@hotmail.com.
Date/Time of Posting: Sep 20 2015 / 18:31:14
name = Robert J. Bodetko where = Littleton, Colorado 80120
Harmon_Memories = I was assigned to the 1933 AFCS. Lived in Green Barracks. Worked at the Com Center. Year was 1961. We had snow tunnels downtown. A member of com cen was found passed out in front of com cen and was covered in snow. He survived. probably because his antifreeze was Newfoundland Screech. I met my wife who is from Kippens at the club. she is still my wife after 52 years. Best place ever!
Date/Time of Posting: Mar 10 2016 / 14:25:07
name = Blanche Ryan
where = Aguathuna, Newfoundland Harmon_Memories = I worked in Base Supply from April 1960 to the closing of the Base in December 1966. They would close so many buildings every couple of weeks or so and then you would be moved to another building. The last place I worked was at the NCO Club. That was where our office was located. LOTS OF GOOD MEMORIES OF WORKING THERE.
Date/Time of Posting: Apr 03 2016 / 07:58:17
name = IAN J. DUNCAN
where = VIRGINIA
Harmon_Memories = I WAS A 24 YEAR OLD Lt. KC-97 AIRCRAFT COMMANDER IN THE 1958-59 TIME FRAME. WE ROTATED INTO HARMON ON THE SAC PLAN CALLED REFLEX.PURPOSE WAS TO PROVIDE MULTIPLE TANKERS FOR THE B-47 BOMBER FORCE WITH THEIR EWO PLAN.IDEA WAS TO GET THE ALREADY AIRBORNE BOMBERS FUEL BEFORE CROSSING THE ATLANTIC ON THE ROUTE TO THE USSR. IN 1999 WIFE AND I SPENT 2 WEEKS TOURING NEWFOUNDLAND IN OUR R.V.VISITED THE BASE TO FIND A COLLEGE CAMPUS.
Date/Time of Posting: Apr 18 2016 / 13:12:28
name = Bill Culbertson
where = Virginia Beach, VA
Harmon_Memories = My father, Paul O. Culbertson, was stationed at Harmon from 1959 to 1961, having transferred from Griffiss. I went to Harmon Elementary School for 1st and 2nd grade. I specifically recall one of my teachers telling the class that "JFK was elected President yesterday". I could walk to school as I lived in the housing area right up the hill (on Ohio, I think). Bill Philips was the kid next door. Dad worked a lot at West Bay and Jerry's Nose; he would take me out to West Bay occasionally to spend the weekend. I'd watch him climb up those towers that were so tall I'd lose sight of him. He made E-8 there as I recall. Some of the other guys in the outfit were "Fudd" Richardson and a fellow called Van Hefty. I have vivid memories of Harmon, Camp 33, the Salty Dog, and fishing on the bay. Left for Warren AFB (GEEIA) sometime in 1961. If anyone remembers my Dad, drop me a line at "unclestone2001@yahoo.com".
Date/Time of Posting: Jun 12 2016 / 14:07:19
name = Roy Glidden
where = Harmon AFB - Stephenville, Newfoundland
Harmon_Memories = I was born on Harmon AFB in Stephenville, Newfoundland in 1964. I lived with my 3 brothers and one sister, mother Norman and father SSgt John Glidden. My father was best know as Uncle John from the Uncle John's Birthday Hour children's television show that aired in Newfoundland in the early 60's. He also played bass guitar and drums in various Harmon AFB based bands, and sat in with bands that visited the officers club at Harmon, including Red Solvine's band. Anyone that remembers my father or our family, it would be nice to hear your memories. I would really love to locate photos of the Uncle John show and my father playing music. glidrod@aol.com
Date/Time of Posting: Jul 15 2016 / 08:03:20
name = James Bruchert
where = West Lafayette, Indiana
I arrived at Harmon in Dec 1957 left in Dec 1959. It was very cold and snowing more than I have ever seen I thought I was at the pole. I grew to love Harmon I was assigned to the 4018st Combat Support Group I lived in a great building, elevators and a chow hall I met a girl in town her name is Madonna she worked at the Candlelight Restaurant. We fell in love and we married in Dec 1959. I had a friend who took pictures of our wedding 57 years ago I never got those pictures, if he is still with us I would like to know if he might still have those pics. God bless all those men who were there at Harmon Air Force Base. - (The friend who took the photos worked at the base commissary, James does not remember his name. If you have any wedding photos of unknown people from that time in your family's collection, please contact James at bruchertjames@gmail.com)
Date/Time of Posting: Aug 27 2016 / 10:33:12
name = Fred Disk
where = North of Philadelphia
Harmon_Memories = I was fortunate to be a part of the 323rd FIS between late 1958-60 when the outfit shut down. I worked in the engine shop and the alert barn. When I discovered Corner Brook I thought that Had found heaven. Married a local girl and we are sharing 56 years together. Traveled back to the "rock" too many times to remember. I lived in the "Harmon Hilton" red brick barracks. I often think back of the fantastic food we were served on base and the fun exploring the towns and meeting friendly people. I was even on a first name basis with "Moes Mearn" the self appointed premier of the western NL. I finished my AF career at Charleston AFB in the 444th FIS. Had to load bombs on the 101FB aircraft for the Cuban crisis. After discharge went to work for Pan American airways at JFK in NY. I have only connected with a small handful of people from the outfit. I would love to know others are still around. Fred "the Yank"
Date/Time of Posting: Feb 20 2017 / 16:18:14
name = Susan Davis
where = Oregon, USA
Harmon_Memories = I arrived at the air base when I was 8 months old in 1947. I believe my Dad was an Air Force airplane mechanic at that time. He served there until at least late 1953 and possibly longer. He was killed in an auto accident in 1965. My three brothers were born on the base. Mom and we 4 children left in Aug 1953 when my parents separated. (I have a copy of the manifest of our flight which took us to Westover base in Massachusetts.) Since I was so young my memories are spotty. I recall snow covering the windows of our house which I presume now was base housing. And I remember "Santa" arriving on what I was told was a "weasel" which was some kind of large equipment. I remember not having a real yard but a gravel area behind our living quarters which sloped down into a "pond." And in the summertime the cracks in the streets were sealed with tar which we children would roll into balls to play with. And I recall our refrigerator being filled with lobster at one point in time. I also recall a forest fire somewhere outside of town. And I remember my best friend was a boy my age named Kirk who I've always wondered about. Just little snippets of memory left to me from over 60 years ago.
Date/Time of Posting: Jun 05 2017 / 08:53:38
name = Bill Hildebrand
where = San Diego, California
Harmon_Memories = My step father was stationed at Harmon July or August 1952 to Feb or March 1953 as Supply Officer. We, my step father, mother, 5 year old brother and I, lived off base in a trailer in a pasture converted to a mini-trailer park and rented to families from Harmon. It was located about a quarter mile from the Catholic school and bluff overlooking the beach. The field next to us was still an active pasture. We waved something red at the bull to see if it would chase us; it did, and we scurried to barbed wire fence safely. When it snowed in the winter some one brought a pair of cross country skis, and we skied in that pasture. In the next field over was the general store; I remember the tarp covered stack of dried cod with flies buzzing about; I used to buy jelly beans there. Just beyond the trailer park was a meadow about 50 yards wide; beyond that was a second growth forest of fir trees, ranging from saplings to about 35 ft. tall. Deer would sometimes be in the meadow. We would climb the trees and play Tarzan, swinging from tree to tree. We could go far into the forest without touching the ground; if we fell the interlacing branches of the trees would stop our fall like a safety net. The Mountie post was about a quarter mile the other direction; a storm in Nov or Dec blew the roof off of it. There was a movie theater in town; the admission was a dime. There was the hulk of a B-17 in the village. Even though it had been stripped of usable parts, we still enjoyed crawling around in it and sitting in the seat frames with no control column, looking out the window pretending to fly missions. I remember whenever there was a rumour of fresh milk arriving on a flight there was a long line at the commissary, hoping to score a gallon or so. I don't remember much about the base itself, except that I got to tour a C-119, and I remember waiting in the departure area of the terminal waiting catch a hop to Pepperell AFB. While there both some good and not so good times, it was a great place for a young boy to explore and have some great adventures.
Date/Time of Posting: Dec 19 2017 / 02:03:39
name = Linda Hinrichs
where = Redding, Ca
Harmon_Memories = Richard Hayes, My dad was killed on that KC97 that crashed at the end of the runway in 64. I know a lot about the crash and would like to answer any questions. I'm still having a hard time processing it.
lindabillhinrichs@yahoo.comDate/Time of Posting: Jan 16 2018 / 23:51:47
name = Gary Wandrey
where = Rohnert Park Ca
Harmon_Memories = In April of 1961 I went PCS from Forbes AFB to Harmon. I was an A2c at the time attached to the 40th Bomb Wing in the Field Mtc Propeller Shop. At Harmon I had escaped SAC and joined the elite 1624 Support Sqd. Our Squadron staffed the MATS Terminal and Cargo Terminal and did maintenance and fueling on all MATS aircraft from McGuire, Dover, and some from Charleston and Norfolk. We were all housed in the sparkling white 3 story barracks across the street from the Modern looking Newfoundland Twin Towers you called Hiltons. Our shop was called a Specialists Shop. We had 4 flights, A,B,C and D. A TSgt would lead a crew of 4 usually. An Electrical, Instrument and Propellor guy. Mtc. Guys fueled turned wrenches wiped oil leaks and changed engines. What a blast it was. We got to handle C118, C124, C133 and on occasion C121 Acft. Being in the MATS hangar next to the fire station and MATS terminal building was choice. When not maintaining planes, or playing cards we hung out in that classy restaurant coffee shop in the terminal. The day that John Glenn did 3 orbits my roommate and another guy hiked back into a lake north of the runway where a C124 cashed in 1960. Highlights as follows. A top floor window facing the 2 Hiltons for a year. And one down the hall across the hall facing Stephenville, Main Gate, Church and the NCO Club. Also had a Year around trout stream under our window that babbled all night. Window open of course. Bud, Schlitz and Miller $2.75 a case. Import beer $3.25 a case. Not to mention the Airmans Club, Clover Club, Red Rose club and French Casino. Base Bowling League. Cool BX. One And a Half lb Lobster with trimmings. $1.25 in town. Medium Lobsters were .25 cents each in town and our Sqd had Lobster Boils frequently. Camp 33 was my favorite. A Boat with a 15 horse Merc and a 6 gallon gas can $6.00. A bed , Chow Hall.......wow. Found the hot spot at Grand Lake and hauled out loads of Rainbow trout Between 3-6 pounds. Went back to Chicago on leave in June 62 end got my 54 Ford off blocks and drove northeast to North Sydney N.S. Took the Wm Carson Car Ferry over to port Aux Basque Nfld. Scored big time in Stephenville with wheels. Back then lower 4 grade Airmen could register a car on base their last 3 months before stateside rotation. Drove back in late October taking the Wm Carson again with Six 6 pound trout frozen and packed in dry ice. 6 forty oz. bottles of Canadian Club for Mom and Dad as well. Drove to McGuire for separation and saw my girlfriend who was a WAF Flight Attendant I dated on layovers at Harmon. My DOS on my DD 214 is 25 Oct 62. That was the classic peak of the Cuban Missile crisis. My 6 Trout made it back to Evanston , Ill still frozen. Lots of great Harmon photos for anyone out there who is nostalgia buff as I am. gary.wandrey@gmail.com
Date/Time of Posting: Feb 06 2018 / 09:24:13
name = Jean M. Cormier-House
where = Stephenville, Newfoundland, Canada
Harmon_Memories = I was born and raised in Stephenville,Nl. Most of my family worked on Base. As a young girl I sang as part of a Female Trio on TV at EHAFB. I remember the three member Combo who accompanied us, I remember the Pianist, they called him Little John, the three were incredible musicians and I think they were part of the House Band at Harmon. I also conducted the Church Choir on Base - Chaplain, Capt. Christopher Ruggeri at the time. In the early 60's I sang in the MUN Extension Stephenville Glee Club conducted by an American lady Joan Sword, her husband was stationed at Harmon. The Accompanist was also an American from Harmon, Sharon Courey. I worked at Base Supply 1963 - 1966 as Private Secretary/Stenographer for Major Bailey, Major Podgorski, Major Evans who later was promoted to Lt. Colonel. Colonel Evans came to Stephenville summer 2016 and sang in my USO Floor Show. I found him after 43 years. It was an amazing reunion. The former Base Supply Bldg is still standing, the Mayor of the Town arranged for us to see Base Supply once more.I had several opportunities to see the States Side Bands and Singing Groups. Two which I shall never forget 'The Flamingos - performed at the NCO Club, B.G. Ramblers performed at the Officers Club.I have a very keen interest in the History of EHAFB and just recently becoming familiar with the History of Pinetree. Personnel I remember from my working days on Base - Major Bridgeford, Msgt Palmer, Sgt. Croyle, Sgt Seekings, Captain Truelove, Captain Dill, Sgt. Duguay, Airmen: Don Dykes, Jerry Ennis, Jerry Wallace, Don Satelle, Steve Stravinsky, Dick Odgen, Schultz, Bill Jacoby, Paul Welsh, Bense, Benson, Sgt. Febre, Cato, Flahive, Dangerfield. So happy to have the opportunity to share my Harmon Memories and continue to post many of those memories on FB.
Date/Time of Posting: Feb 18 2018 / 09:34:48
name = stephen carson
where = stockton,ca
Harmon_Memories = My father was Edward H. Carson He was station at Harmon AFB from 56 to 58, He was a truck driver there, He would marry a Phyliss O'brein from Stephenville
Date/Time of Posting: Feb 18 2018 / 19:49:13
name = Lin Walters (Butch)
where = Botkins, Ohio
Harmon_Memories = My Father, T/Sgt. William Walters was transferred to Harmon AFB in April of 1960. He was in the 1933AACS squadron as a air traffic controller. I attended Harmon High as a Junior. Joseph McCormack was the Principal. I dated a girl named Carolyn W. Massey. Her Father was Col. John T. Massey. He was the dental clinic commander. They were transferred to Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina in June, 1961. I lost track of Carolyn and would love to connect with her again. Since her Father was a "Bird" Col. and my Father was a T/Sgt. they had bigger ideas for her which didn't include me.. lol.. I know at one time she tried to contact me but, since my folks forgot to tell me all came to an end. We lived in a lower apartment up there that was owned by James Liswell. He ended up buying most of the items that were left when the base closed. I would like to hear from anyone up there, especially anyone that knows anything about Carolyn. linwalters@Hotmail.com
Date/Time of Posting: May 31 2018 / 19:09:37
name = Gary M Swerdlow
where = Bradenton FL
Harmon_Memories = 1933 AACS SQ NEAC Dec 1954 thru Dec 1955. Nov of 55 wind was 60 MPH so strong the only time I went to the CHOW BLDG was behind 300 LB SGT or I would get Blown away. Almost got run over by a 1500LB Moose. Muddy Stephenville, I took a 3 day leave by TaxiCab a( death defying bumpy ride ) to Corner Brook NFLD , Got soused on one bottle of 24% Beer at the local PUB. Sat there Frozen stiff for three hrs before I could move. Don't remember coming back to Base. AP's patroled with DOGS around the KC 97's with Dogs ,also at the Base Gates. KC 97's SAC coming back on 3 engines lots of times. C 54's, and Air Evac Turbo-prop Electras?. Worked Radar, Teletype and Nav-aids. F89-D scorpions, Night and day. US Navy Neptune Recon planes overhead weekly patrols. B29 Air sea Rescue. What a thrill being part of all that.
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