Thanks so much Gunny for your expert phtography and narration; you captured life aboard the Midway to a "t". I was a corpsman for the VMFP-3 Detachment in 79-80. It was the cruise where we collided with the frighter, Cactus. Eighty days straight in the Persian Gulf. I hope you are still doing well. I was 20 years old then and now getting medicare starting next month! Time flies. God's speed to you and all!
Thanks so kindly. You were there a few years after I was. I am now 75 and using the VA health system, as your right, time flies. Semper Fi and stay well.
I served on the Midway 1970 to 1972. I'm a plank owner, I was there for the recommissioning January 1970. The ship was brand new with central air. Boy did I love that in Vietnam. The Midway was by far my best duty station.
Thanks Gunny. Great video. I served with VF-151 from '70 through '72 as Plane Captain. Great ship and great people. Anthony, you are spot on about the A/C. I imagine we must have crossed paths many times on board without realizing it. It was a good place to work and explore. I once ended up in Shaft Alley #3. That is a long way from the sunshine!
Hey Gunny A'bear- I was in VMFP-3 Electric Shop from April 1976 to June 1979, and I remember working for you early on. You were one squared-away Marine, and you made quite an impression on a very young L/Cpl! I made two Dets - from Sept to March '77/'78 and '78/'79. I took my Dad on board the Midway a few years ago, and the smells and sounds brought memories flooding back. Semper Fi, Dave!
I Just saw this comment. I remember you too. Those were the days and I appreciate the Kudos. Glad you enjoyed this and your trip back. Be well and Semper Fi to you as well!
He retired to TEXAS...I believe, in 1982 summer. Eiben was my Avionics NCOIC. A SSGT Caldwell ? was out instructor over on the dangerous side of flight line. I wore HIS cranial gear aboard Midway.
I am going to have to look him up, I am in touch with another Marine that worked over at NAMTRADETS with Gunny Eiben. I have some stories of what terrible tricks we did to Gunny Eiben over at NAMTRADETS. Funny stuff.
I was there. Man does that bring back memories. I was AT3 at the time and the RIO was my shop LT. the thing I remember is how fast the RIO left the aircraft. The pilot was our XO of the Squadron and he was as cool as could be and took his time like it was a every day event. The reason it took the barricade is the main mount wheel fell off on on launch. I was a troubleshooter at the time and I launched that aircraft. I was on the USS Midway in 1975 and 1976. We were the beginning of Midway Magic.
I talked to your Squadron CO this past November. He said the pilot of the F-4 was always as cool as a cucumber . Never got shook up. The former CO is a Docent on the boat. He wanted to see this video and show it to the pilot .
I am so happy you enjoyed this. Your right about the wheel. Amazing you were part of that launch. That was an exciting time and was lucky to get the incident on film. Thanks for your service and for commenting.
Me and my wife live very close to the midway, It's amazing adventure each time we board You'll learn something new every time you visit, You can feel the energy from the past serviceman still on board It is truly an awesome experience and I highly recommend it.👍👍👍👍👍
Thank you Gunny. The vintage footage was great and you have a nice narration voice. I served on the Midway on two VMFP-3 deployments between 1981 and 1983. FYI, my second deployment was 10 months long, but was enjoyable because of our mission, the sailors and Marines, and a great ship's captain (Capt C.R. McGrail, USN).
Thank you Mike. I appreciate that. I recognize your name. I retired as a MSgt in 2006, closing the El Toro Base and Moving it to Miramar. It was a sad day, as I was one of the last persons on the base, I worked with the BRAC and was the RSU Sgt Major. Thank you for your service.
I must have been right next to you. I’ve got several photos I took after I helped to rig the barricade. Had a Kodak 110 but got several good shots of it. Couldn’t believe it broke through!
Right on. I was up on the Aft Eye. It was quite a sight to see for sure. Thanks for serving our country, hopefully not for nothing and Semper Fi from the old Top.
I was aboard 74-77, worked in OC Div, AirOps/CATCC. Thanks for the video, brought back good memories. I remember Maj. Barris as one of your RF4 jocks, cool guy, great pilot.
Gunny. I was an AT with VA 93 from 75 - 77 I do remember that crash and I also work the flight deck as well as a stint in 77 as in the flight deck launch room. I was that guy who showed what planes launched off and recovered on the deck. Eventually, the midway museum told me that my job became an officers job once it was computerized.
Right on, Tim. I know what you mean about losing the job, cause when I made Gunny I wasn't out fixing and doing what I liked. Anyway glad to hear your story and Semper Fi from the old Top.
I love these videos Dave! It is nice to see personal videos that real members took rather than documentaries. I have always loved the F-4, and some of the best Crew Chiefs I have ever known started on either them or the F-111. Thanks for sharing your memories and experiences with us.
Hi Dave, Thanks for the vid. I was part of the VMFP-3 detachment to CV-41 in 1982. I've since been back to visit her twice since she became a museum. Great memories.
I was on the Midway 1980 to 1984 in V-1 Div. Flight deck and then struck for Hospital Corpsman near the end of my tour. I do remember VMFP-3 for sure! Reconnaissance, they were the FAST looking F-4's.
Yes, we were the Photo Birds! Fast in, take the pics, and fast out. I loved my time there and thank you for your service as well. Stay healthy and Semper Fi from the old Top.
I was there from the end of 75 to the end of 77 . was in the V4 div. my div officer 24 years old Lt Julius Moon was killed on take off from Clark air base Philippines along with the pilot and some others .don't know their names but it was real sad. I can still see his face as if it was yesterday. Hi to all my division. hay Gator its been awhile. Mark Read.
Yes, I was stationed on the Midway attached to VA-93! Captain Chuck McGirill was the C/O then, he later went on to become an Admiral. He passed away in 2005 or around that time, I remember when he departed the ship at sea. We were shocked and had no idea why he had left, we didn't have a change of command ceremony when we returned to Japan. "Midway Departing" Guy's were seen crying on the mess decks when he left, he started his career as an enlisted man. I will never forget my time on the Miday my very first ship!
It was my most exciting time in the Marine Corps as well. I miss it, but have visited her several times, since she is a beautiful museum in San Diego. Thanks kindly for your service and Semper Fi from the old Top.
@@NightFlyyer Yes, I have been on the ship in San Diego, sad that my upper birthing was roped off. That was a great ship every sailor remembers his first ship and, their first deployment and port of call. My first port of call on the Midway was Sasebo, man was that one boring city, we went there during sea trails after dry dock.
We Had An A-7 Corsair Crash Aboard The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) During Our Mediterranean Cruise In 1981. I Was An ABH3 In Air Dept/V-1 Div As A Yellowshirt (Aircraft Director). Although An Aircraft Carrier & Flight Deck Are Very Large, Whenever There's A Crash, Or A Fire, It Gets Very Small Very Quickly!!! ⚓
WOW! Yes, and we had a few emergency's too and your right. It is very small and after flying out there and seeing it from above, it is REALLY small. I appreciate your comments and thanks for serving our Country.
Great video Gunny. I was on the Midway from 83-85, VF-161 ordinance shop. Your old squadron had 3 phantoms back then too. Ironically, one of them couldn't lock his nose gear, so we had to rig the barricade so he could crash. It wasn't as spectacular as the one on your video, but I'll never forget it. The pilot was the coolest cat I ever saw when he climbed out. The RIO,....not so much. :)~ He had the rubber legs so bad, he had to be helped out of the cockpit. They had to circle the ship for an hour to burn off fuel. He had a lot of time to think about it. The Midway was one helluva way to see the world. The best ship I ever served on.
I just saw this. Your right, we had 3 Phantoms out there. The Midway Museum in San Diego is a must see for you, as I think you will be in tears. Semper Fi and thanks so much for Serving.
I was aboard from the recommissioning in 1970 to 1973 I was a ph2 and a cinemaphotographer using mostly 16 mm when I took over for deck camera . The photo lab had about a 12 sailors.
Super cool video, Thanks Gunny. USS Midway AIMD IM3 Com/Nav, Cal Lab 79-82 AT2. P3 guys were great to serve with, kept us in touch with what was going on in the states every 6 months.
Excellent choice of the music background. I was in the Navy from 96 to 2010. This was a interesting era of the Navy, especially on Midway. Thank you sir for your Navy pilot< >Marine Corps Wings
Hi Gunny, Great video.... I was a very young BM when I joined the Midway in 1976. I got onboard just before the tree chopping incident in Korea. I stayed with her until late 1979 and have very fond memories of my time onboard.
I enjoy watching these videos. Thank you and all others who served for your service. Great respect to veterans who served on these ships. Still hard to believe Midway is still with us.
Great Video, thanks for sharing. I was in ground support equipment (GSE) Jan '76- April '79, where I worked with "P-3" Marines on TAD from your squadron. A fine group! Everyone That served on Midway seems to have fond memories, as do I. It sounds trite, but they don't make 'em like they used to. - Mark
Did 3 deployments with VMFP-3. 3 as Det NCOIC @ Det Office @ P-3 MCAS El Toro. 2 dets as IMA chief 82- 83 & 83-84. Then squadron QA chief 84-85. Last time out 131 days @ sea, 101 days in IO. I was an E-7 4 all deployments.
CTF 77, space port side, forward, beneath port side cat. '59-60. Bunked directly beneath number 3 wire. Sleep was tough, till you got used to the racket. Thanks for the post, Gunny.
Dave, I know I've told you previously, but Thank You so much for your service to our country. It is very much appreciated. I'm very glad that you were able to go back and visit the Midway. I'm sure it brought back loads of memories. She sure is a beautiful ship. Thank you for the guided tour and time warp tour as well, both were very special. Love those old Phantoms. So cool to see them in action. Thanks again!
I was stationed aboard the USS Midway with VF-151 from 75-78 and VF-161 was our sister squadron, my brother was in VF-161 at the same time. Worked on F-4s for a few years and retired as an Aviation Ordnance Chief Petty Officer. Many hours on these airplanes and on the flight deck. Thanks for the video.
Loved that lady 1977 BM3-E4 Great memories.I was a lifer til I went home on leave fell in love. Had to choose between 2 queens.Oh well I'll miss the great times. i still miss it all, but I'm proud to have been apart of that great ships crew. God bless you USS MIDWAY(CV-41)1st Division
Dave, I was Stationed on the USS Dixie AD-14 a Destroyer Tender, At the time the Oldest Active Commissioned Ship in the Navy, we tied up there in 1974 and in 1976, I remember in 1976 The Midway Sitting cold Iron there in Yokosuka Japan, There was some serious wind coming over the mountain She was listed had good view of the Flight Deck from across the bay, Boy what a sight to see 8 aircraft coming up on the elevators, The guys cabled them down to the deck, lit them off and pushed her back to the pier and held her there till all the tugs finally got there to push her back and replace the mooring lines, heard that they were popping with all the wind hitting her on the starboard side. Got to visit her to do some cabinet work, I was a Hull Maintenance Tech 3rd Class, Yep a very exciting venture for a 18 yr old boy from California, Thank You and All who served. I first caught you while looking for a way to toss my foamies in the air, Bad shoulders now, When I saw Catapult, I new you had navy in You, Since Day one i've always said the Marines Do have a Few Good Men, Ahh Navy Corpmen, Blessings, Happy Easter, GOD's Speed, Your Brother in Arms, Apple Valley Ca.
WOW, what an incredible story and I remember it well. I was on her in 1976 and remember the wind, it always seemed windy, especially on the flight deck at sea during ops. When the ship was in Yokosuka, we flew to Iwakuni on C-130's and when we got there, we could not land, and had to turn around and go back to Yokosuka, due to weather. It was no better when we got back. A long, loud flight, which we made again the next day. I appreciate your comments greatly and very glad I helped with your launching of the foamies. I may get my launcher out again, now that you mentioned it. Thanks for your service also and be well.
Yep. When she turned into the wind, you could hold your float coat open like a parachute and lean forward 45degrees without falling. I can remember having to run up to the bow, full blast sprinting, but not going as fast as a normal walking speed. Went thru a couple of typhoons on her too. The Midway rode high winds and heavy seas better than the Big E, and that's saying something. Must've been those expansion joints. (?)
@@sledshed3488 I Was on the Midway also through those hurricane season winds and waves ...standing a flight deck watch from about 4 am till. Early after sunrise see the white water breaking over the bow those winds up and opening my jacket I jumped up while I had my jacket open and the wind blew me backwards a bit...funny...I was between 20 and 21 years old at the time...we eventually evacuation Saigon and afterwards I transferred 3-4 months later... Thanks to everyone who served on the Midway CVA41 also... hell of a ride
Reported aboard in Christmas Eve 1977 as a bright-eyed E-1. Left in 1978 as an E-4. Retired in 1996 as a Senior Chief. How about this: "There is the right way, the wrong way, the Navy way and the Midway" of doing things.
I was at the VA hospital in Madison Wisconsin today and was honored to meet a fella who was a chef on the Midway. real interesting hearing about how many people they had to feed on board that mega ship.. Yeah real coincidence i see this video in my lineup.
I was one of the guys that gave up their bunks for a refugee family during Operation FW. I shipped out to the Big E the middle of 75, so I missed crossing the equator and going to Aus. Visited the Midway in Nov of 2016, lots of memories from that time
Thanks Dave, sadly I have not watched a RUclips video on a TV or even a computer screen since the Smart Phone was invented. Again your videos are top shelf, so much so that I watch all the flying videos yet have never flown anything other than a paper airplane. Thanks again.
Used to take photos of the afterburners during night flight ops from the focsile. Dramatic! One time I followed a prop shaft all the way down to the bottom of the stern! No stairs, had to climb thru holes in bulkheads. Got progressively colder the lower I went, could hear the props thru the hull, and feel the chill of the dark, mysterious ocean right thru the steel. Finally came to the dry side of what looked like a rotating seal, where the prop shaft finally poked out thru the hull. Bottom of the ship's structure had quite a bit of cold sea water in pools between the bulkheads.
Love watching you're videos Dave I fly a DJI Inspire one and create lots of videos using it please swing by and have a little look at some of my videos Cheers Doug
wow very cool Dave to see a vid like this espcially as you know everything about the unique ship as you served from it...which makes this vid very special and unique.👍👍..Jim
I served in the S-7 division, data processing, near the fantail. My living quarters were one deck below the hangar bay, near the right rear of the hangar bay. Average temperature in our quarters hovered around 110 deg. F and often over 120. Heat waves made watching tv nearly impossible and you HAD to wear inch thick shower shoes to prevent burns and there was no water in the water fountain - only steam. We worked 17 hours a day, played poker for 2 hours, took a cold shower and jumped into the rack wet, otherwise, you slept in your own sweat. After nine months served aboard her, the engineers got the temperature down to 90 F. Needless to say, I spent most of time in the computer office where they had massive A/C. I served another three months before my brother died while awaiting discharge from the Navy and I got a sole-surviving son discharge.
Thanks Dave, I was in V-1 Division my first 3 years, then V-5 Div. TAD helping the Air Boss - writing backwards calling the Ball, then worked my last 8 month striking as a Hospital Corpsman; ( 8/1980 to 8/1984 ). I live in N. San Diego County so I do get to see her any time I want which is great. Thanks for the memories.
VA-56 flight deck trouble-shooter.. 73 to 76 ( I came very close to making it into your documentary. Five minutes in.. when an A-7 from VA 56 was shot off, a wider angle would have caught me under the starboard wing with my thumb up. I was Almost Famous )
@@NightFlyyer Thanks.. Served on three flat tops. Two of them are scrapped and one's a museum now. Time just slips Us by.. Good luck to you, things are going to be tough.. ( Buy Gold )
Thanks for the Video, Gunny. Saw Gunny Lockwood at a VMFP-3 Avionics re-Union in Las Vegas in 2006. A few Avionics folks gather up about every one or two years. This year we are meeting up in Pensacola to tour the Museum and attend the local Marine Corps Ball . I was on Det 3 Sept 1976-March 1977.
Hey Ron. WOW. I remember seeing Gunny Lockwood on the Midway on one of my visits when I still lived in California. It was a fluke that I saw him that day. He was one of the Avionics chiefs and I remember you for sure too. I hope you are well and please say hello for me at the renunion. I retired as a MSgt and in 2006, closing the El Toro Base and Moving it to Miramar. It was a sad day, as I was one of the last persons on the base. I worked with the BRAC and was the RSU acting Sgt Major. Thank you for your service. Semper Fi.
PS. Did you go on Liberty in Korea? The Landing craft smashed into the side of the Midway during the night and damaged her. For us to get down to the landing craft, we had to rappel. LOL. I went with Bill Fedders and when It was time to return, we could not and spent the night in the Hayalea army compound gym, sleeping on the floor. It was a cold night. Also, since I flew back seat with Major Bob Spooner, I was wondering if you know of his whereabouts? Thanks again and Semper Fi.
OH yes, We climbed down the cargo nets onto that flat barge that was rising and falling while the ship was still. We went to Texas Street and Green street every where we were told not to go. Else where. everybody was buying futons and embroidered jackets. It was very cold. Haven't heard or seen anything about Major R. L. Spooner. That was Wild Bill Fetters's 2nd Det. He went on the first one also. I was a Sgt at the time when I went over there. I had a few of Electricians from WC620 in our barracks. at Iwakuni. Red headed Puckett ( whose uncle was Sgt. Maj of the USMC at around that time) and Al Ekas ( he retired recently as a Tech Rep) and Rey Vega. We are still in touch with Ed Quintero. He came to the re-union in Branson Mo. 3 years ago. If you still have your original orders to Det III, I am the second name from the bottom of the first page.
Holly Cow! Just hearing you tell this, has me cracking up. Wild Bill Fetters was quite the character all right! Your right about the cold. It was wild. I remember Ekas and Puckett too, now that you mention them and Quint too. Are you on Vet friends.com? I am glad your still in touch. I spent a total of 33 years in the USMC and probably got the orders somewhere?? LOL. Say hello to those guys and maybe pass this vid to them. Maj. Spooner was cool, I always thought. I remember flying up to Iwakuni with him in the Back seat of #10 just before we left, as he wanted to have more hours flight time. I was the only one he could find to fly up there. It was a wild flight. Be well.
Well, Top, This past USMC Birthday we gathered up in San Diego and visited the Midway as a group. Then we had a guided tour of the MALS-11 very large Van complex at MIRAMAR and then we attended the Marine Corps Ball with MALS-11 and one of our Marines was the oldest Marine and he got be in the Cake Cutting ceremony. We also visited the Flying Leatherneck Museum. They liked my old El Toro mess hall tray I have in my possession. I will probably donate it to them one day. We still have some Great Marines in our CORPS.
I was stationed on the Midway from 1973 to 1975/August for the fall of Saigon and also rode the ship over from Alameda to Yokosuka Japan in 1973 assigned to VF-161.I still remember my shipmates and friends I made while on board...Benjie Planecaptain and adj-an.
I was in VAW-115 on the 72-73 cruise, working in AIMD, AIMD-2, I believe, but not sure. I fixed radios, IFF and nav gear. Worked on stuff for E-2's, Phantoms and RF8-C's. I get to visit the ship on San Diego about every other year, and I always enjoy my visits. My squadron was homeported at North Island NAS on Coronado. You had to pay a toll then to cross the bridge, or come up the silver strand, which took quite a while. We had close to 20,000 traps on this cruise. 325 days.
@@NightFlyyer Yes, I was on it. This was the last combat cruise of Vietnam war. They wouldn't let the ship come home until the Peace Agreement of Paris was signed. Once it was done, the POW's came home (Hanoi Hilton, including John McCain). We had an A-6 crash on the flight deck on October 24, 1972 that killed the Bombardier Navigator (BN) LT. Bixler, and four men on deck. 30 sailors were hospitalized, mostly with burns. We launched planes the next day and did not sustain enough damage to come off line. Bad day.
@@NightFlyyer I have some Vulture's Row photos on Buzz Nau's website. CV41.org. Click on Galleries|Midway through the years|1970's|Bill Lowers to see my photos. I slept under the port side blast deflector near the end of the angle deck (we could hear tailhooks of bolters on our roof), and could hear the hydraulics of the blast deflectors when they were launching planes. We always knew when the RF-8C photo recon planes were ready to go, because they did not have staged afterburners, and when they hit the burner, it was a big dump of fuel, and . . . POW! the instant the JP5 hit the exhaust. I worked in the AIMD radio shop one door up the passageway from my berthing area. Tailhooks dragged across our roof there, too. I was in the E-2 squadron, and when an E-2 didn't catch the wire, the tail hook went Dink, ka chink, dink as it bounced across the roof. Nothing macho like the roar of a phantom!!
I was on board at that time and remember the crash. I was working in the AIMD area just below the flight deck. We were starting to pick up the fumes from the fuel fire (and getting nervous!).
Whowww that must have been a crazy tur-of Duty. I respect what you have done, and still doing. USS Midway CV-41 1081 / 1985. Yellow shirt, Green Shirt, Blue to start. Thank you so very much. 2 Class Petty Officer.
Gyros were so much different than the no moving parts ones now, that's for sure. I was stationed after Nam in Iwakuni, and when we spent Christmas there in 1976, we flew to Yokosuka a couple of times with a long, loud flight on C 130's. Thanks very kindly for serving and commenting!
USS Midway-CV 411981/1985. Beautiful Ship, With lot;s of support. Indian Ocean 51 Hostage work. Great job on the video. May be navy, OOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAA. Thank you SR.
Great video. Thanks Gunny. The USS Midway was on active duty at the time of my commissioning, back in '89. I recall the modernization was necessary to accommodate the angled deck and a variety of other heavy mods (catapults, loss of armor belt, etc.). The result was a significant increase in displacement. This further resulted in the ship's hull requiring side blisters...to increase the hull volume. The downside of this re-design was a very short roll period (as low as 9 seconds...as opposed to over 20 on the Forestall), making landing in high seas states tricky. Pretty sure the Coral Sea had the same mods...though I think that ship became a Pensacola training asset long before retirement. I vaguely recall reading the case study back at the Academy, during a naval architecture course. Now-a-days we have Wikipedia to augment our brain cells! Of course, these big boys were favorites Christmas Card pics for our attack boat wardroom. They really looked impressive in our periscope cross-hairs. :-) Go Navy, Beat Army! PS: My uncle flew F-4'Es in Vietnam (Silver Star recipient) so I made many a model variant of the F-4 in my youth...probably why I didn't have 20/20 as an adult. Whenever I see that mean looking behemoth of an aircraft, one that had a lift coefficient of a brick, I still think it's one bad-ass looking jet. The J79's on those mean machines certainly knew how to generate thrust!
+JB6789 Thanks for that information for sure. 3 Midway class ships were built. The USS Franklin Delano Roosevelt and the USS Coral Sea were the other two. All 3 had the same mods. I too am a Phantom lover. Smoke, Noise and fast from the ground, but I recall only instruments could be heard at Mach II when Flying. Go J-79. Thanks for your service.
Your videos are awesome in every aspect. My only suggestion would be to change the multi color text in the beginning of each video. watching from phones sometimes the different colored words get lost in the background. Otherwise what a great life you have lived. Thanks for everything.
+Truth is Good point. I do my editing on an old fashion 50 inch plasma, so I don't have the problem. I forget most viewers probably use cell phones these days. If I want to see a video good, with good sound, I always watch it on my PC. I appreciate the suggestion and I will take it to heart from here on out. Thanks again.
Dave I was in From 1965 To 1968 ( 3 )Year Navy Full Time Reserve ! The USS Topeka CLG8 Guided Missile Cruiser! Did a West Coast , Gulf Coast , East Coast & Mediterranean Cruise ! We Missed Vietnam To Swap Duty with a Heavy Cruiser In Spain ! Spent about 6months in the Mediterranean ! We had 6 inch Turrets & they Had 8 Inch Turrets for Shore Support ! August 1st 1967 To January 29th 1968 ! Home Port change From Long Beach California to MayPort ,Florida ! Lots of Sea Time !
this was the only accident that happened in 1976, and we only stood down 1 day a week at sea.lm pretty sure we flew more sorties than any other carrier. the stack caught on fire ( stayed in general Q 2 hrs )..ans a man was sucked into an A 6 intake,were the other incidents. Oh ...we lost man overboard. Airman Knox....
Thanks for your service Airman Knox. I was there during those accidents, and was up on the deck as a Flight Deck safety officer (in White jersey) during those sad times. I miss the Midway, but it lives on in San Diego and I have visited it several times keeping it alive.
NightFlyyer Oh ....l think you had in your video .... ( watched it few years ago )...footage of the " Whale" trapping...this was an aircraft we had only one on board...B7....maybe was it's designator
Nightflyer, incredible! Your taste for music is spot on. I was thinking the background music from the time period of the actual filming of the which would enhance the nostalgia. [May you consider?] I was on ship in SF in 70 then to Dago then back to SF then T.I. And for a visit in 2010 in Dago. Question? Are boarders aloud you go below to the engine and turbine rooms? The hangar and the floor below were only permitted.
Yes for sure you can visit the engine room. Most of the ship is open. YT would block my video if I used copyrighted music, so this is it. Thanks for serving.
83 84 85 was alive . Gonzo station. North pac west pack. History be known . two back to back battle E award golden anchor and many covert ops. What a great TIME
@@NightFlyyer lol. The midway was notorious for being so unstable after the 1970 refit. (Thin hull/keel + wide flight deck + heavier aircraft, catapults, arresting gear etc etc = disastrous results)
@@kurtiskaskowski5386 Yes. It was rock and roll when I was out there in 76, but had no disasters, except this crash on deck. Thanks and Semper Fi from this old Marine.
Thanks so much Gunny for your expert phtography and narration; you captured life aboard the Midway to a "t". I was a corpsman for the VMFP-3 Detachment in 79-80. It was the cruise where we collided with the frighter, Cactus. Eighty days straight in the Persian Gulf. I hope you are still doing well. I was 20 years old then and now getting medicare starting next month! Time flies. God's speed to you and all!
Thanks so kindly. You were there a few years after I was. I am now 75 and using the VA health system, as your right, time flies. Semper Fi and stay well.
I served on the Midway 1970 to 1972. I'm a plank owner, I was there for the recommissioning January 1970. The ship was brand new with central air. Boy did I love that in Vietnam. The Midway was by far my best duty station.
So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks kindly for serving, Anthony.
Thanks Gunny. Great video. I served with VF-151 from '70 through '72 as Plane Captain. Great ship and great people. Anthony, you are spot on about the A/C. I imagine we must have crossed paths many times on board without realizing it.
It was a good place to work and explore. I once ended up in Shaft Alley #3. That is a long way from the sunshine!
Hey Gunny A'bear- I was in VMFP-3 Electric Shop from April 1976 to June 1979, and I remember working for you early on. You were one squared-away Marine, and you made quite an impression on a very young L/Cpl! I made two Dets - from Sept to March '77/'78 and '78/'79. I took my Dad on board the Midway a few years ago, and the smells and sounds brought memories flooding back. Semper Fi, Dave!
I Just saw this comment. I remember you too. Those were the days and I appreciate the Kudos. Glad you enjoyed this and your trip back. Be well and Semper Fi to you as well!
Myron, I missed you by THIS much. Checked into TME from Memphis at the end of June 79, Avionics electric shop, SSgt BAKER, Top Eiben ?
I knew Gunny Eiben when he was an instructor at NAMTRADETS at El Toro. Funny fellow, we had a lot of run. .
He retired to TEXAS...I believe, in 1982 summer. Eiben was my Avionics NCOIC. A SSGT Caldwell ? was out instructor over on the dangerous side of flight line. I wore HIS cranial gear aboard Midway.
I am going to have to look him up, I am in touch with another Marine that worked over at NAMTRADETS with Gunny Eiben. I have some stories of what terrible tricks we did to Gunny Eiben over at NAMTRADETS. Funny stuff.
I was there. Man does that bring back memories. I was AT3 at the time and the RIO was my shop LT. the thing I remember is how fast the RIO left the aircraft. The pilot was our XO of the Squadron and he was as cool as could be and took his time like it was a every day event. The reason it took the barricade is the main mount wheel fell off on on launch. I was a troubleshooter at the time and I launched that aircraft. I was on the USS Midway in 1975 and 1976. We were the beginning of Midway Magic.
I talked to your Squadron CO this past November. He said the pilot of the F-4 was always as cool as a cucumber . Never got shook up. The former CO is a Docent on the boat. He wanted to see this video and show it to the pilot .
I am so happy you enjoyed this. Your right about the wheel. Amazing you were part of that launch. That was an exciting time and was lucky to get the incident on film. Thanks for your service and for commenting.
Me and my wife live very close to the midway, It's amazing adventure each time we board You'll learn something new every time you visit, You can feel the energy from the past serviceman still on board It is truly an awesome experience and I highly recommend it.👍👍👍👍👍
Thanks so kindly. I agree and appreciate your comment. Semper Fi, from this old Marine.
Thank you Gunny. The vintage footage was great and you have a nice narration voice. I served on the Midway on two VMFP-3 deployments between 1981 and 1983. FYI, my second deployment was 10 months long, but was enjoyable because of our mission, the sailors and Marines, and a great ship's captain (Capt C.R. McGrail, USN).
Thank you Mike. I appreciate that. I recognize your name. I retired as a MSgt in 2006, closing the El Toro Base and Moving it to Miramar. It was a sad day, as I was one of the last persons on the base, I worked with the BRAC and was the RSU Sgt Major. Thank you for your service.
Mike Gallagher, Chuck was AWESOME!!! Green flash! Did you see it? lol There was no better CO anywhere.
I must have been right next to you. I’ve got several photos I took after I helped to rig the barricade. Had a Kodak 110 but got several good shots of it. Couldn’t believe it broke through!
Right on. I was up on the Aft Eye. It was quite a sight to see for sure. Thanks for serving our country, hopefully not for nothing and Semper Fi from the old Top.
My brother served on the Midway from 70-72. Radioman. Yes a hero when he goes on the tour in San Diego.
I was aboard 74-77, worked in OC Div, AirOps/CATCC. Thanks for the video, brought back good memories. I remember Maj. Barris as one of your RF4 jocks, cool guy, great pilot.
Yes and glad you enjoyed it. Thanks kindly for your service.
I just toured the midway last week, what a ship!
That is fantastic. I would love to make another run on her for sure. Thanks much.
Thank You to you and all the other vets service in the Armed Forces!
Thanks very kindly! Semper Fi!
awesome footage Dave, must be great for you and bring back many memories.
+beverke7 Thanks. it really did. It all seems like a dream, as I enjoy watching it now too.
Gunny. I was an AT with VA 93 from 75 - 77 I do remember that crash and I also work the flight deck as well as a stint in 77 as in the flight deck launch room. I was that guy who showed what planes launched off and recovered on the deck. Eventually, the midway museum told me that my job became an officers job once it was computerized.
Right on, Tim. I know what you mean about losing the job, cause when I made Gunny I wasn't out fixing and doing what I liked. Anyway glad to hear your story and Semper Fi from the old Top.
I love these videos Dave! It is nice to see personal videos that real members took rather than documentaries. I have always loved the F-4, and some of the best Crew Chiefs I have ever known started on either them or the F-111. Thanks for sharing your memories and experiences with us.
Thanks very kindly for your service and I really appreciate your comments. Be well.
Yes, I was stationed on the USS Midway from 1969 to 1971 (recommissioning to my resignation).
Right on. Thanks for serving and Semper Fi from the old Top
Hi Dave, Thanks for the vid. I was part of the VMFP-3 detachment to CV-41 in 1982. I've since been back to visit her twice since she became a museum. Great memories.
Glad you enjoyed it Brian. Semper Fi and thanks for your service!
I was on the Midway 1980 to 1984 in V-1 Div. Flight deck and then struck for Hospital Corpsman near the end of my tour. I do remember VMFP-3 for sure! Reconnaissance, they were the FAST looking F-4's.
Yes, we were the Photo Birds! Fast in, take the pics, and fast out. I loved my time there and thank you for your service as well. Stay healthy and Semper Fi from the old Top.
I was there from the end of 75 to the end of 77 . was in the V4 div. my div officer 24 years old Lt Julius Moon was killed on take off from Clark air base Philippines along with the pilot and some others .don't know their names but it was real sad. I can still see his face as if it was yesterday. Hi to all my division. hay Gator its been awhile. Mark Read.
Thanks for your comments and thanks for your service to our country.
Thanks Gunny, I was a member of VMCJ-2 from 73 to 77 and got to serve aboard the Midway, working the flight deck on the Lox crew.
That is great and you saw lots of action up there. Thanks for serving Don.
My dad was station on the Midway 71 to 72.
Right on. Thank him for me.
Yes, I was stationed on the Midway attached to VA-93!
Captain Chuck McGirill was the C/O then, he later went on to become an Admiral.
He passed away in 2005 or around that time, I remember when he departed the ship at sea.
We were shocked and had no idea why he had left, we didn't have a change of command ceremony when we returned to Japan.
"Midway Departing" Guy's were seen crying on the mess decks when he left, he started his career as an enlisted man.
I will never forget my time on the Miday my very first ship!
It was my most exciting time in the Marine Corps as well. I miss it, but have visited her several times, since she is a beautiful museum in San Diego. Thanks kindly for your service and Semper Fi from the old Top.
@@NightFlyyer Yes, I have been on the ship in San Diego, sad that my upper birthing was roped off.
That was a great ship every sailor remembers his first ship and, their first deployment and port of call.
My first port of call on the Midway was Sasebo, man was that one boring city, we went there during sea trails after dry dock.
@@yusufrahman6341 Great story. Great to hear it. God Bless.
Well Done! Thank you for your service 🇱🇷 🇱🇷🇱🇷🇱🇷🇱🇷
Thanks so kindly, Brian!
We Had An A-7 Corsair Crash Aboard The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) During Our Mediterranean Cruise In 1981.
I Was An ABH3 In Air Dept/V-1 Div As A Yellowshirt (Aircraft Director). Although An Aircraft Carrier & Flight Deck Are Very Large, Whenever There's A Crash, Or A Fire, It Gets Very Small Very Quickly!!! ⚓
WOW! Yes, and we had a few emergency's too and your right. It is very small and after flying out there and seeing it from above, it is REALLY small. I appreciate your comments and thanks for serving our Country.
Great video Gunny. I was on the Midway from 83-85, VF-161 ordinance shop. Your old squadron had 3 phantoms back then too. Ironically, one of them couldn't lock his nose gear, so we had to rig the barricade so he could crash. It wasn't as spectacular as the one on your video, but I'll never forget it. The pilot was the coolest cat I ever saw when he climbed out. The RIO,....not so much. :)~ He had the rubber legs so bad, he had to be helped out of the cockpit. They had to circle the ship for an hour to burn off fuel. He had a lot of time to think about it. The Midway was one helluva way to see the world. The best ship I ever served on.
Bill M wonder if we crossed paths? Rock AT ‘81-‘83 K.Beckett
I was there for that one too. Have pictures of it somewhere, lol
I just saw this. Your right, we had 3 Phantoms out there. The Midway Museum in San Diego is a must see for you, as I think you will be in tears. Semper Fi and thanks so much for Serving.
I was aboard from the recommissioning in 1970 to 1973 I was a ph2 and a cinemaphotographer using mostly 16 mm when I took over for deck camera . The photo lab had about a 12 sailors.
Fantastic. Thanks for serving and Semper Fi from the old Top.
Thank you for your time in the service gunny.
+Tom Tom Thank you very kindly.
Super cool video, Thanks Gunny. USS Midway AIMD IM3 Com/Nav, Cal Lab 79-82 AT2. P3 guys were great to serve with, kept us in touch with what was going on in the states every 6 months.
Thanks you for serving as well. Semper Fi.
Excellent choice of the music background. I was in the Navy from 96 to 2010. This was a interesting era of the Navy, especially on Midway. Thank you sir for your Navy pilot< >Marine Corps Wings
Thanks so very kindly. I appreciate you and your service. Semper Fi from the ole Top.
Hi Gunny, Great video.... I was a very young BM when I joined the Midway in 1976. I got onboard just before the tree chopping incident in Korea. I stayed with her until late 1979 and have very fond memories of my time onboard.
Pretty exciting time when we steamed out of Yokosuka for Korea that fall in 76
Happy to hear that and glad you served. Thank you.
@@donh4948 I remember. I also remember how cold and bleak it was went we went ashore in Pusan.
I enjoy watching these videos. Thank you and all others who served for your service. Great respect to veterans who served on these ships. Still hard to believe Midway is still with us.
It is, and still is a great ship. If you visit, you will be impressed. Thanks very kindly.
@@NightFlyyer Will go and see her once the virus chaos is over.
Great Video, thanks for sharing. I was in ground support equipment (GSE) Jan '76- April '79, where I worked with "P-3"
Marines on TAD from your squadron. A fine group! Everyone That served on Midway seems to have fond memories,
as do I. It sounds trite, but they don't make 'em like they used to. - Mark
Thanks you very much and thanks for serving. Your right. If you visit it, you will support your memories.
A very interesting video Dave. Thanks for posting. I enjoyed that.
+Sam Williamson Thanks Sam. I am glad you enjoyed.
Thank you for your service!
Great video and information.
Thanks very kindly for your comments. I appreciate that a lot.
After seeing your film,I can smell the pacific again.BM-3 1st division.1977. To re-visit would be fantastic. Thanks Gunny.There's love in those pics.
Awesome !
Did 3 deployments with VMFP-3. 3 as Det NCOIC @ Det Office @ P-3 MCAS El Toro. 2 dets as IMA chief 82- 83 & 83-84. Then squadron QA chief 84-85. Last time out 131 days @ sea, 101 days in IO. I was an E-7 4 all deployments.
Served 73-75 HM2 Corpsman with VA-93
CTF 77, space port side, forward, beneath port side cat. '59-60. Bunked directly beneath number 3 wire. Sleep was tough, till you got used to the racket. Thanks for the post, Gunny.
Your welcome and your right about the Racket! LOL Thanks and Semper Fi!
Dave, I know I've told you previously, but Thank You so much for your service to our country. It is very much appreciated. I'm very glad that you were able to go back and visit the Midway. I'm sure it brought back loads of memories. She sure is a beautiful ship. Thank you for the guided tour and time warp tour as well, both were very special. Love those old Phantoms. So cool to see them in action. Thanks again!
Thank you very much. I really appreciate it and your long time viewership. I would love to sail again too. Best regards.
I was stationed aboard the USS Midway with VF-151 from 75-78 and VF-161 was our sister squadron, my brother was in VF-161 at the same time. Worked on F-4s for a few years and retired as an Aviation Ordnance Chief Petty Officer. Many hours on these airplanes and on the flight deck. Thanks for the video.
I was there in 1976 when we had our Bicentential RF-4 aboard
Thanks for serving to the both of you.
@@donh4948 Thank you for serving. I flew in 610, the Bi bird with Major Spooner piloting.
Dave you truly are an extraordinary and interesting individual. Thank you for your service to our country!
I appreciate your comments. I would say I am definitely experienced for sure mostly learning the hard way all the way! Thanks again.
Thanks, Gunny. Seat Shop, Det 3 & Det A, Sep '79 - Dec '80. Semper Fi
Thank you too. You may like this other video I made on El Toro. ruclips.net/video/4dTyhoeb39c/видео.html Semper Fi.
I was on the Midway in 1980 when VAQ-136 relieved VMAQ-2.
Right on. Thanks for your service. Semper Fi from the ole Top.
Loved that lady 1977 BM3-E4 Great memories.I was a lifer til I went home on leave fell in love. Had to choose between 2 queens.Oh well I'll miss the great times. i still miss it all, but I'm proud to have been apart of that great ships crew. God bless you USS MIDWAY(CV-41)1st Division
Thanks Tony, and thanks for serving. Stay well.
Dave, I was Stationed on the USS Dixie AD-14 a Destroyer Tender, At the time the Oldest Active Commissioned Ship in the Navy, we tied up there in 1974 and in 1976, I remember in 1976 The Midway Sitting cold Iron there in Yokosuka Japan, There was some serious wind coming over the mountain She was listed had good view of the Flight Deck from across the bay, Boy what a sight to see 8 aircraft coming up on the elevators, The guys cabled them down to the deck, lit them off and pushed her back to the pier and held her there till all the tugs finally got there to push her back and replace the mooring lines, heard that they were popping with all the wind hitting her on the starboard side. Got to visit her to do some cabinet work, I was a Hull Maintenance Tech 3rd Class, Yep a very exciting venture for a 18 yr old boy from California, Thank You and All who served. I first caught you while looking for a way to toss my foamies in the air, Bad shoulders now, When I saw Catapult, I new you had navy in You, Since Day one i've always said the Marines Do have a Few Good Men, Ahh Navy Corpmen, Blessings, Happy Easter, GOD's Speed, Your Brother in Arms, Apple Valley Ca.
WOW, what an incredible story and I remember it well. I was on her in 1976 and remember the wind, it always seemed windy, especially on the flight deck at sea during ops. When the ship was in Yokosuka, we flew to Iwakuni on C-130's and when we got there, we could not land, and had to turn around and go back to Yokosuka, due to weather. It was no better when we got back. A long, loud flight, which we made again the next day. I appreciate your comments greatly and very glad I helped with your launching of the foamies. I may get my launcher out again, now that you mentioned it. Thanks for your service also and be well.
Yep. When she turned into the wind, you could hold your float coat open like a parachute and lean forward 45degrees without falling.
I can remember having to run up to the bow, full blast sprinting, but not going as fast as a normal walking speed.
Went thru a couple of typhoons on her too.
The Midway rode high winds and heavy seas better than the Big E, and that's saying something. Must've been those expansion joints. (?)
@@sledshed3488 I Was on the Midway also through those hurricane season winds and waves ...standing a flight deck watch from about 4 am till. Early after sunrise see the white water breaking over the bow those winds up and opening my jacket I jumped up while I had my jacket open and the wind blew me backwards a bit...funny...I was between 20 and 21 years old at the time...we eventually evacuation Saigon and afterwards I transferred 3-4 months later...
Thanks to everyone who served on the Midway CVA41 also... hell of a ride
Thanks Gunny! Brought back a lot of memories. Good times! 80-82
Glad to hear that and thanks for serving, Scotty.
Reported aboard in Christmas Eve 1977 as a bright-eyed E-1. Left in 1978 as an E-4. Retired in 1996 as a Senior Chief. How about this: "There is the right way, the wrong way, the Navy way and the Midway" of doing things.
Right on. Thanks for your service and Semper Fi, from the old Top!
I was at the VA hospital in Madison Wisconsin today and was honored to meet a fella who was a chef on the Midway. real interesting hearing about how many people they had to feed on board that mega ship.. Yeah real coincidence i see this video in my lineup.
Great to hear. Thanks for serving.
Johnny I did three tours on the Midway PA 56 pa-93 and chips company between 1977 and 1990 loved all the places we went
So happy and hope your memories were spurred by my video. Thanks for serving.
I was a bt."76 to 78". 3 baker boiler.
Right on. Thanks so kindly for your service and Semper Fi from the ol' Top.
I served on her in 76, Material Control with VMFP 3. Thanks Gunny
Thank you as well and for serving Jack.
I was one of the guys that gave up their bunks for a refugee family during Operation FW. I shipped out to the Big E the middle of 75, so I missed crossing the equator and going to Aus. Visited the Midway in Nov of 2016, lots of memories from that time
Wow. Great. Thanks for serving.
Service from 1974 to November 1977 in VF 151
Right on. You may have been on board when I was in 76. Thanks for serving.
Just got on the midway today, it was really exciting and can't wait to join the usmc. Great vid by the way :D
Congrats and hope you have. Thanks and Semper Fi.
Thanks Dave, sadly I have not watched a RUclips video on a TV or even a computer screen since the Smart Phone was invented. Again your videos are top shelf, so much so that I watch all the flying videos yet have never flown anything other than a paper airplane. Thanks again.
Well thank you sir I feel very honored that you watched my video.
Used to take photos of the afterburners during night flight ops from the focsile. Dramatic!
One time I followed a prop shaft all the way down to the bottom of the stern! No stairs, had to climb thru holes in bulkheads. Got progressively colder the lower I went, could hear the props thru the hull, and feel the chill of the dark, mysterious ocean right thru the steel. Finally came to the dry side of what looked like a rotating seal, where the prop shaft finally poked out thru the hull. Bottom of the ship's structure had quite a bit of cold sea water in pools between the bulkheads.
I was on Midway, in 1977. Marine Detachment. Security guard, SEMPER FI
OooRah! Great to hear. Semper Fi to you as well!
I was an airman in HS-12 84-89, can't say I loved every minute of it, but damn near every minute of it.
Haha. I know.. there were those times in the rough seas. Thanks for serving and be well. Semper Fi!
I was on her Jan 1975 to March 1977. 3rd Division Bosun Mate
Great to hear. Thanks for serving.
What a great video thank you for sharing. Big thumbs up from Scotland.
Hello Scotland and thanks so kindly for your comments.
Love watching you're videos Dave I fly a DJI Inspire one and create lots of videos using it please swing by and have a little look at some of my videos Cheers Doug
Great video Gunny
Thanks so kindly.
Thanks for the memories, I was Ships company airdale in AIMD from Jan 78 to Jan 81
So glad to hear that. Thanks for serving, Jeffrey.
wow very cool Dave to see a vid like this espcially as you know everything about the unique ship as you served from it...which makes this vid very special and unique.👍👍..Jim
+hovermotion I appreciate your comments Jim. Thank you.
I was on Midway from 1970-1972. Love that Boat!!!
Thanks for serving William. Hope you get to visit her someday.
Very interesting video
Thank you for your service my friend.
Thanks for sharing.
+Turkeydoodlers Thank you kindly. I appreciate that.
I served in the S-7 division, data processing, near the fantail. My living quarters were one deck below the hangar bay, near the right rear of the hangar bay. Average temperature in our quarters hovered around 110 deg. F and often over 120. Heat waves made watching tv nearly impossible and you HAD to wear inch thick shower shoes to prevent burns and there was no water in the water fountain - only steam. We worked 17 hours a day, played poker for 2 hours, took a cold shower and jumped into the rack wet, otherwise, you slept in your own sweat. After nine months served aboard her, the engineers got the temperature down to 90 F. Needless to say, I spent most of time in the computer office where they had massive A/C. I served another three months before my brother died while awaiting discharge from the Navy and I got a sole-surviving son discharge.
WOW, what a story. Sorry about your brother. Thanks so kindly for serving.
Thanks Dave, I was in V-1 Division my first 3 years, then V-5 Div. TAD helping the Air Boss - writing backwards calling the Ball, then worked my last 8 month striking as a Hospital Corpsman; ( 8/1980 to 8/1984 ). I live in N. San Diego County so I do get to see her any time I want which is great. Thanks for the memories.
Hi Bryan and thanks so much for serving. I am very happy to hear your works. Semper Fi, from Me to you.
Great video, Thanks. G Division '73-'76
Thanks much Brad, and thanks for serving.
I served on the Coral Sea, i want to visit the Midway one day
I hope you do. Thanks for serving as well.
VA-56 flight deck trouble-shooter.. 73 to 76
( I came very close to making it into your documentary. Five minutes in.. when an A-7 from VA 56 was shot off, a wider angle would have caught me under the starboard wing with my thumb up. I was Almost Famous )
Right on. Well glad to see your still around. Thanks for serving and Semper Fi from the old Top.
@@NightFlyyer
Thanks..
Served on three flat tops. Two of them are scrapped and one's a museum now. Time just slips Us by..
Good luck to you, things are going to be tough..
( Buy Gold )
Thanks for the Video, Gunny. Saw Gunny Lockwood at a VMFP-3 Avionics re-Union in Las Vegas in 2006. A few Avionics folks gather up about every one or two years. This year we are meeting up in Pensacola to tour the Museum and attend the local Marine Corps Ball . I was on Det 3 Sept 1976-March 1977.
Hey Ron. WOW. I remember seeing Gunny Lockwood on the Midway on one of my visits when I still lived in California. It was a fluke that I saw him that day. He was one of the Avionics chiefs and I remember you for sure too. I hope you are well and please say hello for me at the renunion. I retired as a MSgt and in 2006, closing the El Toro Base and Moving it to Miramar. It was a sad day, as I was one of the last persons on the base.
I worked with the BRAC and was the RSU acting Sgt Major. Thank you for your
service. Semper Fi.
PS. Did you go on Liberty in Korea? The Landing craft smashed into the side of the Midway during the night and damaged her. For us to get down to the landing craft, we had to rappel. LOL. I went with Bill Fedders and when It was time to return, we could not and spent the night in the Hayalea army compound gym, sleeping on the floor. It was a cold night. Also, since I flew back seat with Major Bob Spooner, I was wondering if you know of his whereabouts? Thanks again and Semper Fi.
OH yes, We climbed down the cargo nets onto that flat barge that was rising and falling while the ship was still. We went to Texas Street and Green street every where we were told not to go. Else where. everybody was buying futons and embroidered jackets. It was very cold. Haven't heard or seen anything about Major R. L. Spooner. That was Wild Bill Fetters's 2nd Det. He went on the first one also. I was a Sgt at the time when I went over there. I had a few of Electricians from WC620 in our barracks. at Iwakuni. Red headed Puckett ( whose uncle was Sgt. Maj of the USMC at around that time) and Al Ekas ( he retired recently as a Tech Rep) and Rey Vega. We are still in touch with Ed Quintero. He came to the re-union in Branson Mo. 3 years ago. If you still have your original orders to Det III, I am the second name from the bottom of the first page.
Holly Cow! Just hearing you tell this, has me cracking up. Wild Bill Fetters was quite the character all right! Your right about the cold. It was wild. I remember Ekas and Puckett too, now that you mention them and Quint too. Are you on Vet friends.com? I am glad your still in touch. I spent a total of 33 years in the USMC and probably got the orders somewhere?? LOL. Say hello to those guys and maybe pass this vid to them. Maj. Spooner was cool, I always thought. I remember flying up to Iwakuni with him in the Back seat of #10 just before we left, as he wanted to have more hours flight time. I was the only one he could find to fly up there. It was a wild flight. Be well.
Well, Top, This past USMC Birthday we gathered up in San Diego and visited the Midway as a group. Then we had a guided tour of the MALS-11 very large Van complex at MIRAMAR and then we attended the Marine Corps Ball with MALS-11 and one of our Marines was the oldest Marine and he got be in the Cake Cutting ceremony. We also visited the Flying Leatherneck Museum. They liked my old El Toro mess hall tray I have in my possession. I will probably donate it to them one day. We still have some Great Marines in our CORPS.
I was stationed on the Midway from 1973 to 1975/August for the fall of Saigon and also rode the ship over from Alameda to Yokosuka Japan in 1973 assigned to VF-161.I still remember my shipmates and friends I made while on board...Benjie Planecaptain and adj-an.
Great story. Thanks so kindly for serving Alton.
Very good Mr dave
+francoys lavoie Thanks kindly.
I was in VAW-115 on the 72-73 cruise, working in AIMD, AIMD-2, I believe, but not sure. I fixed radios, IFF and nav gear. Worked on stuff for E-2's, Phantoms and RF8-C's. I get to visit the ship on San Diego about every other year, and I always enjoy my visits. My squadron was homeported at North Island NAS on Coronado. You had to pay a toll then to cross the bridge, or come up the silver strand, which took quite a while. We had close to 20,000 traps on this cruise. 325 days.
Great to hear your story. Thanks kindly for your Service. Semper Fi from this old Top.
@@NightFlyyer Yes, I was on it. This was the last combat cruise of Vietnam war. They wouldn't let the ship come home until the Peace Agreement of Paris was signed. Once it was done, the POW's came home (Hanoi Hilton, including John McCain). We had an A-6 crash on the flight deck on October 24, 1972 that killed the Bombardier Navigator (BN) LT. Bixler, and four men on deck. 30 sailors were hospitalized, mostly with burns. We launched planes the next day and did not sustain enough damage to come off line. Bad day.
@@williamlowers1964 I was in Nam in 69-70 and then out on the Midway in 76, when we had the F4 as seen here crash on deck. Thanks again for serving.
@@NightFlyyer I have some Vulture's Row photos on Buzz Nau's website. CV41.org. Click on Galleries|Midway through the years|1970's|Bill Lowers to see my photos. I slept under the port side blast deflector near the end of the angle deck (we could hear tailhooks of bolters on our roof), and could hear the hydraulics of the blast deflectors when they were launching planes. We always knew when the RF-8C photo recon planes were ready to go, because they did not have staged afterburners, and when they hit the burner, it was a big dump of fuel, and . . . POW! the instant the JP5 hit the exhaust. I worked in the AIMD radio shop one door up the passageway from my berthing area. Tailhooks dragged across our roof there, too. I was in the E-2 squadron, and when an E-2 didn't catch the wire, the tail hook went Dink, ka chink, dink as it bounced across the roof. Nothing macho like the roar of a phantom!!
William Lowers Did you know Shustek?
I was on board at that time and remember the crash. I was working in the AIMD area just below the flight deck. We were starting to pick up the fumes from the fuel fire (and getting nervous!).
Great to hear you remember this. Thanks for serving and stay well.
I was a tail hook sailor, VAH8 aboard the Midway 1961.
I was a plane captain ( HATRON EIGHT ) 1962-1966 .
Whowww that must have been a crazy tur-of Duty. I respect what you have done, and still doing. USS Midway CV-41 1081 / 1985. Yellow shirt, Green Shirt, Blue to start. Thank you so very much. 2 Class Petty Officer.
Wow you were an early bird. Thanks for serving.
@@miltontownsend2314 Wow another early bird. Thanks for serving.
@@denassdidu I as well thank you for serving. Thanks for commenting too.
Awesome vid.. Thanks 👍🇳🇿
Thanks so very kindly!
Thanks Gunny.. Very good Video.
Thank you Ray. I appreciate you.
My dad Bruce Mason served on the USS Midway CV-41
Thank him for me and thanks for telling me that.
NightFlyyer welcome
I was in VMFP-3/H&MS-11 from '86-'87. I-Level COM/NAV Radar, MOS 6415. Good times at El Toro...miss those days still...
I miss them as well. Thanks so kindly for serving. Semper Fi!
September 1976 thru August 1978. Shellback. Anyone remember the rainbow roast beef?
I do. Wow, haven't heard that term in along time. Thanks for serving Charles.
Thank you for your service!! great video
+Jerry Yaw Thanks much Jerry.
USS Midway was my first ship 1976. Was in 1st division (Focsle). Did mess cooking in the Fist Class mess.
Meals were great and important and I am sure I ate your cooking. Thanks for serving.
Fightertown USA VF-161 - April 1970- August 1971 Madien West-Pac out of Alameda CAG-5- Loved it
Glad to hear that. Thanks Michael for serving.
ICFN Gyro Technician 1978-1980
Yokosuka, Japan
Gyros were so much different than the no moving parts ones now, that's for sure. I was stationed after Nam in Iwakuni, and when we spent Christmas there in 1976, we flew to Yokosuka a couple of times with a long, loud flight on C 130's. Thanks very kindly for serving and commenting!
USS Midway-CV 411981/1985. Beautiful Ship, With lot;s of support. Indian Ocean 51 Hostage work. Great job on the video. May be navy, OOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAA. Thank you SR.
Thanks so kindly for serving and commenting. Stay well.
Mm3 Powell a div.
.loved my midwaycv41, went to Enterprise cvn 65..
Midway Magic for sure. Thank you for serving.
I worked Air Operations/Air Transfer Office OC Division onboard the Midway 82-85... She was a grand ship.
That is great. She is still a great ship and hope you can visit her someday. Thanks for serving.
ATO......😄
Great video. Thanks Gunny. The USS Midway was on active duty at the time of my commissioning, back in '89. I recall the modernization was necessary to accommodate the angled deck and a variety of other heavy mods (catapults, loss of armor belt, etc.). The result was a significant increase in displacement. This further resulted in the ship's hull requiring side blisters...to increase the hull volume. The downside of this re-design was a very short roll period (as low as 9 seconds...as opposed to over 20 on the Forestall), making landing in high seas states tricky. Pretty sure the Coral Sea had the same mods...though I think that ship became a Pensacola training asset long before retirement. I vaguely recall reading the case study back at the Academy, during a naval architecture course. Now-a-days we have Wikipedia to augment our brain cells!
Of course, these big boys were favorites Christmas Card pics for our attack boat wardroom. They really looked impressive in our periscope cross-hairs. :-)
Go Navy, Beat Army!
PS: My uncle flew F-4'Es in Vietnam (Silver Star recipient) so I made many a model variant of the F-4 in my youth...probably why I didn't have 20/20 as an adult. Whenever I see that mean looking behemoth of an aircraft, one that had a lift coefficient of a brick, I still think it's one bad-ass looking jet. The J79's on those mean machines certainly knew how to generate thrust!
+JB6789 Thanks for that information for sure. 3 Midway class ships were built. The USS
Franklin Delano Roosevelt and the USS Coral Sea were the other two. All 3 had the same mods. I too am a Phantom lover. Smoke, Noise and fast from the ground, but I recall only instruments could be heard at Mach II when Flying. Go J-79. Thanks for your service.
Your videos are awesome in every aspect. My only suggestion would be to change the multi color text in the beginning of each video. watching from phones sometimes the different colored words get lost in the background. Otherwise what a great life you have lived. Thanks for everything.
+Truth is Good point. I do my editing on an old fashion 50 inch plasma, so I don't have the problem. I forget most viewers probably use cell phones these days. If I want to see a video good, with good sound, I always watch it on my PC. I appreciate the suggestion and I will take it to heart from here on out. Thanks again.
Wow 4 years later a heart. Thanks Dave. How's it going?
I was an AO on the Midway 82-85
That is great! Thanks for your service too!
VA-185 PC and then Power Plant shop. Operation Earnest Will.
Thanks very much for serving! Stay well!
3:20 that looks like you the guy in green? probably just a coincidence.
Very nice video and enjoyable to watch. Will share this out.
Haha. Not me, but I did spend time in there studying F4 Natops manuals trying to figure out that darn INS. LOL Thanks kindly for your comments.
Looks like Manny. Loved the Navy for 32 yrs
Dave a Really Nice Video Thanks Dave B. Illinois
Thanks very kindly Dave. I appreciate your comments and long time viewership.
Dave I was in From 1965 To 1968 ( 3 )Year Navy Full Time Reserve ! The USS Topeka CLG8 Guided Missile Cruiser! Did a West Coast , Gulf Coast , East Coast & Mediterranean Cruise ! We Missed Vietnam To Swap Duty with a Heavy Cruiser In Spain ! Spent about 6months in the Mediterranean ! We had 6 inch Turrets & they Had 8 Inch Turrets for Shore Support ! August 1st 1967 To January 29th 1968 ! Home Port change From Long Beach California to MayPort ,Florida ! Lots of Sea Time !
Boiler Technician one Baker BR 1979 to 1981. Hard work those 2 years. Seen half the world. JohnMcVeagh
For sure. Thank you for serving. Semper Fi.
this was the only accident that happened in 1976, and we only stood down 1 day a week at sea.lm pretty sure we flew more sorties than any other carrier. the stack caught on fire ( stayed in general Q 2 hrs )..ans a man was sucked into an A 6 intake,were the other incidents. Oh ...we lost man overboard. Airman Knox....
Thanks for your service Airman Knox. I was there during those accidents, and was up on the deck as a Flight Deck safety officer (in White jersey) during those sad times. I miss the Midway, but it lives on in San Diego and I have visited it several times keeping it alive.
NightFlyyer Oh ....l think you had in your video .... ( watched it few years ago )...footage of the " Whale" trapping...this was an aircraft we had only one on board...B7....maybe was it's designator
A division, 1964 and 1965, William Simon, EN-2.
That is great! Thanks kindly for serving!
Nightflyer, incredible! Your taste for music is spot on. I was thinking the background music from the time period of the actual filming of the which would enhance the nostalgia. [May you consider?] I was on ship in SF in 70 then to Dago then back to SF then T.I. And for a visit in 2010 in Dago. Question? Are boarders aloud you go below to the engine and turbine rooms? The hangar and the floor below were only permitted.
Yes for sure you can visit the engine room. Most of the ship is open. YT would block my video if I used copyrighted music, so this is it. Thanks for serving.
I was stationed on the Midway mid 73 to mid 75 VA-93 Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class. GRAND old ship!
woosung1 Marty Johnson here I was on in 73 to 75 also VA 115 plane captain
She still is. Hope you can visit her some day. Thanks for serving.
@@martyjohnson7304 Thanks so kindly for serving, Marty.
My late father was Senior Chief Corpsman ‘73-‘76 on the Midway. His name isRaymond Sakow.
83 84 85 was alive .
Gonzo station. North pac west pack.
History be known . two back to back battle E award golden anchor and many covert ops. What a great TIME
Thank you for your service for sure.
Nice post.
Thanks kindly!
1979 to 1981 X Div Print Shop.
Fantastic.Thanks Daniel for your service and lets hope it wasn't all for nothing. Semper Fi from the old Top.
Why can't I get info on crashes from 85-86
I wasn't there then so don't know. Maybe there were none. Check with the USS Midway Museum in San Diego and maybe they can help.
@@NightFlyyer lol. The midway was notorious for being so unstable after the 1970 refit. (Thin hull/keel + wide flight deck + heavier aircraft, catapults, arresting gear etc etc = disastrous results)
@@kurtiskaskowski5386 Yes. It was rock and roll when I was out there in 76, but had no disasters, except this crash on deck. Thanks and Semper Fi from this old Marine.
VAH8 attached to Midway, 1961.
You were an early bird for sure. Thanks for serving.