Messages

It was great reading about everyone’s Adak adventures. I was there from February 1973 to April 1974. I was stationed at the COMSTA and was the ComDivOff. I was a green Ensign right out of ROTC. I lived in the 4-man BOQ at the end of one of the enlisted dorms. When I first arrived the ComDiv was in the process of moving from the dingy basement to the top floor of the Comm building. It was nicer that my office was outside of the safe rather than in it. I think the highlight of my stay was going on a Caribou hunting trip. At the time, there was a camp with horses that you accessed by taking a tug around to the other side of the island. It was near the isthmus. All you had to do was sign up with Special Services. The Quonset hut held about 11 people including the two “wranglers” who took care of the horses. I was able to bag two Caribou. I still have the skins. The meat was divided up amongst four families. During part of the trip, we walked to the very end of the island. It took an entire day. Fortunately, there was a stocked cabin for crazy people like us. We stayed overnight and walked back the next day. I think it was 16 miles each way, but I am not sure. It was grueling. Fortunately that part of the island was mostly flat. I also hiked around many parts of the ComSta part of the island. I did lots of fishing in the streams, lake and bay. Had trout for breakfast several weekends. I remember thinking how neat it was to climb to the top of Adagdak, through the clouds and then into clear sky. I also remember the Reservists that flew into the volcano. I remember that Christmas Eve we had a terrific snow storm. I spent much of Christmas walking up around Adagdak taking pictures of the most unusual snow drifts. It was a bright sunny day. The event that actually stirred up the ComSta the most was the arrival of about two dozen female RM’s. 15 of them were assigned to my Division. What a crazy time it was. The little Ptarmigan club that never had more than two people in it was all of a sudden jammed pack every night. After about eight weeks or so fights were breaking out – fighting over whose girl was whose. One guy threatened to jump off of a building because his girl dumped him. Another started carrying a pistol. More than one girl was sent off to Anchorage for psychiatric evaluation. Somehow we managed through it all. We had our own “cabin” – renovated Quonset. I remember the opening of the new Exchange. It was always a big event to see what new music came in each week. The eggs were so old that any time I ate one, it gave me gas. In my 14 months there, I took about 200 slides. I actually looked at them last year for the first time in over 25 years. What an experience. I would love to see the place again and take some of the same hikes I took back in ’73. I left Adak and went on to be a Nuke submariner. Retired from the Reserves in ’95. Hope to hear from some more Adak Alumni.
Nate Leech,
Capt USNR-Ret
Leechclan@uss.net
Wednesday, April 03, 2002 9:19 PM

Subject: where are you today
Just looking for anyone that I hung out with....NAVFAC time frame from 1974 to 1976 any of the bees contact me at this address
Ron
Truckm627@aol.com Sunday, March 31, 2002 11:24 PM

Another great Adak site. I was stationed there from July/73 to July/74. Worked in Supply in the Admin Bldg. Memories include many weekends at the Supply "cabin" overlooking Finger Bay, the eruption of Mt. Sitkin Feb/74, the crash of reserve flight coming to the island to take people back to lower 48 for xmas, counting down the days, bartending nites at the EM club in the Bering Bldg,watching the high school girls basketball team which was pretty good at the time, noon hour volleyball games in the blue shed, getting dice games going at the club(ship,captain,crew), rope yarn on a sunny and the many friends made there.
Tom Christensen,Verona,ND
ctomrun@yahoo.com
Thursday, March 21, 2002 4:42 PM

I served on Adak 1969-1971. I was ET2 at Speccom at NavComsta.
Steve Twiselton and wife at the time Anna
stwiselton3@comcast.net
Friday, March 15, 2002 1:33 AM

Bill, Thank you for your wonderful pictures of Adak. My father, Chaplain Lisle Stewart, was stationed on Adak from 1969-71 and I attended the 2nd and 3rd grades there. One of my brothers was born there on June 2, 1971 (the second baby, I believe, to be born in the newly built hospital, and was delivered by a dermatoligist!). My mother, Nancy, started a women's choral group called "The Aleutianaires" and was the musical director for a production of "The Fantastiks" at the Adak Little Theater. My most vivid memories of Adak are of stopping on the way home from Sunday evening services and climbing onto rocks (or a rock wall) overlooking the Bering Sea (?) to watch seals and otters frolicking and performing just for us, playing and sledding in the snow on Captain's Hill, the 7.1 earthquake on May 1, 1971 (my parents were on their way out to a party at the Captain's house when the earthquake hit, and after they left, the tidal wave siren began to sound all over the island - I remember our neighbors all jumping into their cars and heading for the hills). My parents used to take us to Finger Bay and we enjoyed exploring the old quonset huts. I also remember the beautiful Lupine, and the song we learned in school about Adak:
We're the western most town in the USA on Adak Island, far, far away, where the rain falls down on the tundra ground, and the great tall mountains are all around. The American eagle is a natural here, and we even have some caribou deer, we have jagged coastlines and beautiful streams, even waterfalls, it's really a dream! How we love to go down to Andrew Lake, or to Finger Bay for the fishing's sake How we love to climb all around the hills, but the tundra sliding is the very best thrill! Tho' we're out here in the Aleutian Isles, you won't go far without seeing our smiles, for we love this land and we're proud to say, "We're from Adak Island, a beautiful Island, Adak Island, U - S - A!"
I also remember how embarrassed my parents were when we left the island after two years, and were quite excitedly pointing out every tree, gas station, grocery store, etc. to the cab driver who picked us up at the Anchorage airport. I don't have any pictures of Adak - I know my dad has lots of slides, but I haven't seen them in years, so I appreciate your photos and the opportunity to reminisce and jogg my memory a little.
Thanks very much!
Laura Stewart Prior
Friday, March 08, 2002 12:28 AM

I served on Adak during 1974. Half of my Navy company got shipped to Midway Island, the other half went to Adak. I was assigned to the post office and work with Chief Ladd and John Coulter (sp). Two of my company partners in crime were Tom Walsh (San Antonio) and Calvin Williams (Louisiana). If anybody is out there, let me here from ya.
Barry Sharp
Denver
bflat@attbi.com
Wednesday, February 27, 2002 12:22 AM

Great to read some msgs from ADAK. I was there from nov 68-nov 69. Remeber following the moon landing while on the rock. Lots of boondocking and watching the water hit the rocks. Also the eagles scavange at the dump. A great place to "come down" after two years in Kami Seya, Japan. Took the opportunity to quit smoking and cut down on my drinking. All in all - not bad duty

Mike Woods CTT3

Mike Woods

m-jwoods@home.com
St. Cloud, MN USA - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 18:57:59 (PDT)

I was stationed at NavComSta, Adak, in '68-'69. My most vivid memories are the white outs, the wind, playing cards, and playing fast-pitch softball (weather permitting). I played catcher on the ComSta's softball team, and I can remember beating the Naval Station 2 to 1 on my home run in the late innings. Also I remember going to Anchorage and Kodiak to play softball. It's pretty bad when you consider Kodiak R&R. Adak itself was beautiful, but wasn't a very cool duty station for a 19 year old kid.

Patrick "Bo" Boisclair

wboisclair@yahoo.com
Macon, GA USA - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 12:46:39 (PDT)

Bill you have created a great site and brought back a lot of memories to a great number of people. I was on the rock 1969-1970. I worked with AFRTS, had a radio show and was the tv weatherman who promiced no snow for New Years Eve when we got the 30 inches. Like most I did not want to go and like most I loved my time at the birth place of the winds. If anyone knows the where abouts of Danny Kramer or Chuck Combs let me know.

Don Morton

dmorton@sc.rr.com
Georgetown , SC USA - Friday, November 09, 2001 at 19:31:16 (PDT)

I was stationed on Adak from 10/01/70 through 10/31/71.
I was an EO3 (Equipment Operator, 3rd class) which is a SEABEE rate. I was assigned to the Public Works department.
For all it's isolation, Adak was very beautiful in a rugged sort of way. Did lots of hiking around the island and some overnights away from the base. Even did a bit of sking on the great Adak slopes!
Not sure if anyone remembers it, but there was a pizza place called "Luigi's" as part of the Williwah (spelling??) restaurant in the community building across from the barracks. (Remember the tunnel between the two places?)
I worked at the pizza place when I wasn't on duty in PW.
I see the island has gone back to private use and the Navy is gone!

Ron Machado

FRMRMCB10@AOL.COM or RDM8@PGE.COM
Santa Cruz, CA USA - Wednesday, October 17, 2001 at 21:03:10 (PDT)

GREAT SITE. WAS STATIONED ON ADAK FROM 1 APRIL 77 TO 1 APRIL 79, ONBOARD COAST GUARD CUTTER IRONWOOD. I SAILED THE SEAS FOR TWO YEARS WHILE WIFE AND KIDS STAYED ON THE ROCK. TO BAD IT IS CLOSED. WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE WHO REMEMBERS ME. RON UPTON MKCS USCG RET

Ron Upton

upton@midmaine.com
cherryfield, us maine - Wednesday, October 10, 2001 at 16:52:38 (PDT)

Hello to all of those who have ever spent time on the Alcatraz of alaska. I was up there from feb to may of 2001,
I worked for the Norquest-Adak fishing company and am not military but I have many fine memories of that wind swept hellhole. I was blown off the dock in late feb loading a korean tramper talk about the polar plunge! It took 2 hot showers and three hours just to start shivering. also saw a 150 pound plastic tote box blow by me on the road that goes in front of the factory and the main 2 docks that thing had to be doing at least 20 mph. The military housing that was there is now used to house fisherman and island personel , or at least it was when I was there. I called my old boss today and was told that Norquest pulled out of adak its too bad because I really wanted to leave the hustle and bustle of state life at least for awhile. when I was there the only recreation on the island was the V.F.W 1 pool table 2 dart boards and 5$ cans of budwiser or there is the bargian beer Guiness still 5$ a can but much more of a deal due to the alchol content, and I wouldnt recomend the mixed drinks more water than booze but the taxi service was nice for a small tip of 2-5 dollars you can call the bar and they will pick you up from your house and drop you off when you are done. As for the dating scene dont hold your breath when I was there you could count the female population on one hand and the only decent one was the sheriffs wife. There was a Mcdonalds there that had shut down when the military left they converted it into a galley of sorts the foods not bad
but when you work around cod all day long 12-36 hour shifts
and they try to feed it to you its enough to make you consider a mutiny. One night when the supply ship was late the tried to feed us a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and an apple and some cold coffee anyone who has ever tried to get 30 people to work a 12+ hour day on that little amount of food knows what will happen myself and my crew went on strike so the let us go home and eat like they had a choice!!!! Oh by the way if any of you helped to build the housing up there good job!!! best heating system I have ever seen!!!! There is a main water heater for each house that pumps hot water through the baseboard heaters and to your shower you want a hotter shower or a longer one just turn up the thermostat and wait about 10 min then take your shower and when you get out just turn it back down to room temp, The only downside was that about once every 2 weeks you will wake up with no heat and no hot water so you just go outside and hit the reset button on the water heater and wait about 1 hour for the place to heat up again. I roomed with 3 Mexicans who spoke little english I came home one day to the three of them huddled around the stove in the kitchen covered in blankets the house was so cold that you could see your breath they thought I was a genius and a saint for getting the heat back on. well I hope you enjoy what I have had to share and if you have never been to Adak make it a point to at least see it once it may be desolate and cold but it was one of the most beutiful places I have ever seen.

John Thrasher

JJT279
Spokane, WA USA - Wednesday, October 10, 2001 at 00:02:35 (PDT)

I was on this island for almost four years and I can say
I loved 99 percent of my time there.
Where to start, hunting, fishing, hunting, fishing, oh
yeah, hunting and fishing. :)
I worked at the crash crew for two years and the mac
terminal for another two years (almost).
I had my own Adak junker for transportation and left
it there when I left, sold it.
I miss Adak, I always told myself I would return, but have not
had the chance as of now. Future dream.
Steve Jones

Steven Jones

stevannj@saber.net
Redcrest, ca USA - Tuesday, October 09, 2001 at 19:04:28 (PDT)

I was there 70-71 CTR.

John Chick

jlchick@writeme.com
Greenville USA - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 05:26:27 (PDT)

I was at Adak from Aug.1971 to Aug.1972. I have some pictures of the two Russian trawlers captured and held there for 6 months.
Pete (CTM3)

Pete Placchi

threepandc@aol.com
Crownsville, Md USA - Tuesday, October 02, 2001 at 14:02:53 (PDT)

Just wanted to update my email address for anyone interested! Thanks!! Former Adakian.....84 - 87!!!!

Ronda (Herron) Hipp

wvgirl1971@citlink.net
Romney, WV USA - Sunday, September 23, 2001 at 16:55:54 (PDT)

Spent 7 out of my 21 years in the Navy on "The Rock" Some of the best times I've had in my 53 years. I was an Ocean Systems Technician, OT3 when I first set foot on Adak in Dec. 1970. spent 18 monthes there the first tour. Went back in 1980 till 1982 and Again from 1985 till I retired in May 1989. Would love to go back. It was my home for many years.

Wayne Plemmons OTM1 (ret)

Wayne Plemmons

theplemmons@hotmail.com
Humptulips, WA USA - Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 21:59:31 (PDT)

I was a Zeto Point T brancher from Oct 69 until Oct 70. Your photos brought back a lot of memories. Thanks for posting everything.

Dwight "Ike" Stewart

Bearpaw358@cs.com
Oakdale, MN USA - Monday, September 10, 2001 at 08:56:09 (PDT)

Tour of duty Jan 1970 - Jan 1971 my first tour straight out of Pcola. Fond memories, it's ashame it had to be closed.
Retired 1994 as CTACM.

Joe Pallanez

pallanezj@ndu.edu
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, September 06, 2001 at 11:48:20 (PDT)

Though I have no recollections of this place, my father had told me much about it. I'm happy to see that people did live there, I thought it was just a myth. My father was a DK2 or DK3 when he was there. Between 79-81. I was born there May 9, 1979. And now I follow in my father's footsteps of being a squid. FC3(SW)Herrig.

Randall Herrig

herrigr@john-young.navy.mil
San Diego, Ca USA - Wednesday, September 05, 2001 at 10:45:51 (PDT)

Great Site. I found it while browsing and the pix are great. I came to Adak from Pensacola and then Goodbuddy Airplane patch (Goodfellow AFB) in San Angelo, Texas. I was a CT3 T brancher while in exile on the rock from Dec. 1962 - Jan. 1963. I don't see many entries from that time period(1961-1965 or so) so just wonder if Adak existed during those years??
I think the CO was Capt. Gladding during my stay on the rock.
We had several dogs around the site also - Brutus, Ceasar and a little brown pooch we called Seabee.
I spent many hours running phone patches to the lower 48 from KL7AIZ which was located in a small quonset hut a couple of hundred feet from the barracks. This was a fantastic station (Collins S-Line with a 30S-1 1KW+ amp. and a huge rhombic antenna).
Shooting rats at the dump was a great way to spend some time also. Every once in a while an expired whale would wash up on shore and there would be a rush to remove the teeth from the remains.
I left Adak and was transfered to NavCommSta Phil. San Miguel for a couple of years and then got out of the canoe club as a CT2.
Does anyone out there have any knowledge of a Jay Youmans from Winona, MN.?

73's

Bob Love <bob.lois@worldnet.att.net>
K0MFA

Bob Love

bob.lois@worldnet.att.net
Andover, MN USA - Monday, September 03, 2001 at 19:50:15 (PDT)

Served on Adak:
June 1959 - August 1960
August 1960 - June 1961
May 1975 - June 1977
Three of the best tours in my military career and I
had some good duty, abeit sea duty!

Some of the finest people who ever wore the uniform of
the United States Navy served on Adak at one time or
another, officer and enlisted alike!

Wonderful memories!

Jim H Holman

jholman@uswest.net
Dexter, OR USA - Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 22:42:25 (PDT)

A great site. I was at ComSta 47-48. I have posted some old pictures on the web site. Looking at some of the later pictures, I can't imagine how we endured the original living conditions. Basketball with the civilians at their gym was the best entertainment we had.

Paul Dennies

paulcd@pacbell.net
Simi Valley, ca USA - Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 22:34:46 (PDT)

Was an OT3 at NavFac Adak from 9/74 - 9/75. Great site. Thanks for putting it up. It would be great to see some messages from others who were at the NavFac. Gary Young, are you out there?

Mickey Jones

mick101@midsouth.rr.com
Cordova, TN USA - Tuesday, August 28, 2001 at 14:20:38 (PDT)

My father was stationed on Adak during '68-'69. I attended kindergarted and first grade there during that time. I can remember it being so windy that men would have to carry me to my door after school. I also remember standing outside during underground nuclear testing. Your pictures of the Trading Post, Totem Pole, antennas and the wrecked planes on the runway made me squel with delight. Much to my daughter's dismay I am going to get out the old home movies of the place now. Adak gave me the opportunity to experience and see part of our country that most people never experience and for that I am grateful.

Janie Seely

Jeely6989@aol.com
Vinton, IA USA - Saturday, August 25, 2001 at 21:42:42 (PDT)

My Grandpa was stationed at Adak and also did a short stint at Amchitka (1943 - 1945) We were going over old books today - after all of my (37 ugh!) years - I knew he was a CB and served time in Alaska - but never realized that he was on an island (that was sooo incredibly windy, etc.), etc, so I decided to learn more! What a great site. I haven't even gotten to the pictures yet! But I will definetely share with my Grandpa. Thank you! Trish

Trish

Murgatrish@aol.com
Sycamore, IL USA - Friday, August 24, 2001 at 22:18:42 (PDT)

I happened upon your site by accident, and am enjoying the pictures and messages. I was stationed at AIMD, Ground Support Equip., from Dec 69 til Apr 72. My wife Julie worked in the Admin. Bldg, data processing div most of our stay there. We lived in the Kulak housing, two rows in from the beach. On the few clear days, we could see Mt. Sitkin smoking. We have quite a few pictures and slides taken during our stay. Our neighbors in the duplex houses were both CT's, Tom and Bonnie Seymour, and Dennie and Carol Vandenberg. All great neighbors. We're going to look through our memory info and later post some on the site, perhaps to trigger someone else's recollections. I've noticed some of the names in the msg. board that look familiar. I spent a lot of time at the skeet range and enjoyed Ptarmigan and Caribou and Seal hunting. Used to use Capt. Boldt's "ARK" to seal hunt and halibut fish. Remember taking our son, our cat, and some blankets up on a hill to ride out the A-bomb test and Tsunami warnings. Never felt it, because the wind was rocking the car too hard!We'd like to correspond with any who have interest in the Island.Jim Phillips ASCM retired.

Jim Phillips

jdp@n-jcenter.com
Deltona, FL USA - Thursday, August 23, 2001 at 05:54:29 (PDT)

YES, I WAS THERE TOO! FIRST "A" BRANCHER AT ZETO. I THINK IT WAS SEP OR OCT OF 1969. CAME THERE FROM ARMED FORCES COURIER STATION IN SAN DIEGO. REMEMBER SHOOTING MY FIRST GAME OF POOL IN THE BASEMENT AND WAITING FOR A TREMOR TO DROP THE EIGHT BALL IN THE CORNER POCKET. SHOGO - GREAT TO SEE A PICTURE OF HER- SHE HATED SMOKERS AND LOVED M&M CHOCOLATE COVERED PEANUTS. WHEN WE BROUGHT THE MEALS IN, IF SHE DIDN'T EAT IT NEITHER DID WE. A LOVELIER PLACE NOT TO HAVE TO GO BACK TO NEVER EXISTED. 376 DAYS WERE ENOUGH.

SAM DURHAM

BURJACS@WORLDNET.ATT.NET
MYRTLE BEACH, SC USA - Saturday, August 18, 2001 at 09:09:19 (PDT)

Hello I did a tour as the Paraloft Supervisor from 87 to 91 My wife Diane and My two girls Miranda and Forest fell in love with the "Rock" and it was with a sad heart we learned of its ending. I have returned to Alaska and would love to hear from any of my fellow Adakians who may remember me or my family

Ken Hopkins

donethat@ptialaska.net
Kodiak, AK USA - Saturday, August 18, 2001 at 08:31:33 (PDT)

I did my tour on Adak from Jan1955 > Sep 1957. It was the
best duty station of my 21 years 5 months 14 day career.
I made Chief, then Warrent out of the place so it wasn't
all bad. My #2 lawyer son was born there and was most proud
that he had been born in Alaska before it became a state.
Cheers,jmj, MatCranks Forever, Clair

Clair White

cqbw@wf.quik.com
Wichita Falls, TX USA - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 08:10:26 (PDT)

I posted a guestbook entry the other day, but then got to thinking about something that has bothered me for years. One day, while fishing the lake at the base of Mt. Moffet behind the USNavComSta, I noticed something creeping slowly through the tundra toward me. At first I couldn't make out what it was, but then I realized that it was either a puppy or baby fox or a mix of the two. It was extremely shy and wary, but after throwing it a couple of small trout which it ate, it finally came to me and fell asleep cuddled up in my parka. When I returned to the barraks, I brought her with me and named her Smokey, as she was a smokey grey in color. As she grew, fox featuresm were evident. I would liked to have brought her back stateside, but was told that some yeoman had bought her a license and had claimed her as his. After coming back home, I was told by a buddy of mine who left Adak some months after me that she had been abandoned and was still at Clam Lagoon. I had a great picture of her, but it has long since been lost. If anyone remembers Smokey and what happened to her, I realywouldappreciate hearing from you and any information you might have of my Smokey. My E-mail address is BuddyU32@aol. Waiting to hear from you. Thank you---George.

George E Ungewitter

BuddyU32@aol
Pittsfield, , Ma USA - Monday, August 13, 2001 at 05:55:08 (PDT)

I was stationed on Adak for fourteen months between March of 1953 to May of 1954. During this time, I could think of nothing but getting out of there and returning to civilization. Every day I crossed of one more day on my calender. I believe that everyone else up ther back then felt pretty much the same way. I was a CTSN stationed at USNavComSta at Clam Lagoon. To pass the time, I dabbled in some leather work, photography, and set pins in the bowling alley. I had many wonderful color slides taken on the island, but lost them all during a moving from one home to another.
Now that I'm approaching 70 years of age, I find myself begining to feel a bit nostalgic about the old "rock" and all of the great guys I served with. A good friend of mine was Bill Stoner, who went on to serve until retirement. Bill was from Hagerstoown, Md. and also served with me on Bainbridge Island, Wa. I'm still in touch with Bill occasionaly. Another good friend was Don Nealey from Mullberry Grove, Illinois. I've lost track of Don, and if anyone knows his whereabouts, I'd appreciate hearing from you.
I really would like to return to Adak with my wife just to see the old place again. Does anyone know the particulars such as airlines and accomodations to get there.
Being that I lost all of my pictures of Adak, I really am thrilled with all the web sites showing pictures and reading about other guys experiences up there. I would love to hear from anyone who was stationed there at my E-mail address. ( BuddyU32@AOL ). Waiting to hear from you---George

George E. Ungewitter

BuddyU32@aol
Pittsfield, , Ma USA - Sunday, August 12, 2001 at 07:36:54 (PDT)

GREAT WEB SITE, I SERVED ON ADAK FROM 9/59 TO 9/60. ARRIVED CTSN (T) AND LEFT CT3(T) THEN FINISHED OUT AT SKAGGS ISLAND.I HAVE A LOT OF GOOD MEMORIES FROM ADAK AND WOULD ENJOY HEARING FROM ANYONE WHO SERVED WITH ME.WAS DISCHARGED FROM SKAGGS CT2P1.

KEN ALLCORN

ALLCORNY@AOL.COM
COLUMBIANA, OH USA - Sunday, August 12, 2001 at 06:55:10 (PDT)

Thanks for reminding me of the stories I heard about the long nights in Adak. I remember the guys who went through there as there first tour out of Pensacola. Some sounded to extreme. But then again I went to Keflavik out of A & C school. There are stories there too. Thanks for letting me visit.

Kind regards,

Michael

Michael Hamilton

michael.hamilton@compaq.com
Stone Mountain, Ga USA - Thursday, August 09, 2001 at 23:34:58 (PDT)

Mr. Linhart,
The "Bridge near airport" photo located under "Other" was called Toothpick Bridge. If my father and I recall correctly, it was demolished in 1989.
Enjoyable site. Thanks!
Melinda Peterson-Dominic, NAS Adak 77-81, 87-90 (dep/dau)

Melinda Peterson-Dominic

abominablesnowgirl@yahoo.com USA - Thursday, August 09, 2001 at 13:40:54 (PDT)

Great site!!! Was at NAVCOMMSTA (NSGD) and subsequently NSGA Adak from 1977 through 1981. Unfortunately, I'm knee-deep in work right now and just came across an email from someone that saw this site and sent me to it. Can't wait to get back on it this evening. Loved the island and miss those days! Retired as CTACS(SW) IN '95. Would love to hear from those on the island around the same time frame.

Mike "Mac" McCaskill

mccaskill@prodigy.net
Fayetteville, NC USA - Monday, August 06, 2001 at 14:40:26 (PDT)

I thought I had some pretty good pictures until I found this site. Good stuff! Stationed at NSGA 1984-1985 and worked at shotgun. Great friends and loads of memories from playing softball/football to off the mid-watch basketball games - plenty of fun at the 50 Dept cabin and Lake Andy boathouse, rat hunts, hiking, 4 wheeling, etc etc. Most of all was the people: Nick McGalliard, Matt Singleton, Jake Mcgraw, Tommy, Denny & Bonnie Griggs, Spanky, Lora Atkinson, Scott Johnson, Doug Williams, Doug Stewart and so many more that I can't think of right now. If any of the old gang remembers me, please e-mail.

Steve Schofield

schofieldsa@clf.navy.mil
Chesapeake, VA USA - Monday, August 06, 2001 at 06:42:37 (PDT)

I was at Adak all of 1946. CT3. I have many friends I would like to hear from.

Eugene L. Larsen

Eugjaylar@aol.com
Omaha, ne USA - Sunday, August 05, 2001 at 18:51:43 (PDT)

Looking for Frank & Terry Weeks. Stationed on Adak with me 1982-1984. Send me an email and let me know how you are doing.
ex - Sgt. Moore
USMC
Company I MarSptBn

Steve Moore

sdcm4@yahoo.com USA - Friday, August 03, 2001 at 10:36:40 (PDT)

I worked Project Charlie(Siss Zulu) Mar 1973 to Mar 1974 and remember working on Crab boats, recording music on
Reel to Reel, bowling league, unloading supply ships,
...........................................GREAT WEBSITE

Sal DeAngelis

CTT48AG@aol.com
West Babylon, NY USA - Wednesday, August 01, 2001 at 20:38:22 (PDT)

Wow, what a find! I was at NavFac Adak from June '80 thru Sept '82 and I still miss it! In the first section someone was pining about not being at Kuluk for the 4th! Oh what a laugh! So many of us crammed into my Mighty Pinto to watch the "fireworks" which did little more than drizzle off the end of the pier into the water! For all of my friends who may, in time, read this....thank you for making this tour of duty the most memorable I had. Thanks for the laughs, the tears, the security checks, the P-3 flights (you go, guys! Yahoo!), the honesty, the fun, the Navy relief drives and the friendship living on the rock together brought us! My door is always open to ya! (And you won't even have to push my Pinto down the hill to help me get it started!)

This web page makes me realize how much I miss that "gawd-awful" place....and I'd go back in a heartbeat.

Kate Kinkaid Brinkerhoff
OT-2

Kate Kinkaid Brinkerhoff

brinkaid@sktc.net
Clearwater, KS USA - Wednesday, August 01, 2001 at 15:07:37 (PDT)

Someone said "How long were on Adak"? I said "Eleven months, twenty-two days twelve hours and sixteen minutes"! Now isn't that strange? 1958 I went to Adak as a member of the USAF. I was at the AF receiver site between the NAVCOMSTA and the LORAN station. Remote from the remote! Maj Stairs, squadron commander, Capt Seyboldt, squadron exec. Great officers! MSgts Welch and Phelps, great NCOs. The Navy that provided our support were truly outstanding to us and very generous in their support! The Marine patrols that stopped as a courtesy call were welcomed always! The Dolly Vardens that just couldn't keep off our hooks, the dogs that seemed to enjoy life on the site, the rats that also enjoyed life on the site, the "rocket" shoots! As I said, strange! Strange because after serving 20 years around the globe, 4 years in Greece, 2 years in Japan, 3 years in Canada, Adak is THE place that gets most of the memories! THE place that I would most like to visit with my family. I don't travel well anymore so that re-visit will never happen. Your web page has made my re-visit as good as being there....almost! Thank you so much.

Frank Miler
USAF Ret (Tsgt)

FMiler@aol.com

Frank Miler

FMiler@aol.com
St Cloud, MN USA - Wednesday, August 01, 2001 at 14:30:41 (PDT)

Outstanding site!. On the Rock 3/72-3/73. OBRANCH. CTO1 BUZZELL, Then Roy ? were Supervisors. Charley Zahn, Ron Wright?, Jimmy Phillips, Joe Schauwecker the crew. The Miller Brothers from Nebraska. Dave Furman, Keith Shurkis?, Bill Shoop, Mad Dog (Brian ?).
Alot of memories, rowing out into the Bearing Sea with a 6 pack of Iron City from Pittsburgh. Where is everyone?

John Broz

jb4@bellatlantic.net
Pittsburgh, PA USA - Monday, July 30, 2001 at 15:29:04 (PDT)

was there 78.19.dec,to 79.19.dec .seabee elec.P.W.lineman,to me that was the top of the world.
pictures nice. but love the ticky tac houses all in the row
song.

allen(caribou)nickname

allenni@aol.com USA - Saturday, July 28, 2001 at 16:19:24 (PDT)

Great site and photo's. I have fond memories on the rock from our ships mid mission breaks there 82-92. The folks stationed there were great and we had a blast each and every time. Thank you Adak!

Frank Bullard

rocketman2525@juno.com
Rockford, AL USA - Friday, July 27, 2001 at 11:14:45 (PDT)

Bill - thanks for the great site! What memories the pictures and messages bring back. I was stationed in Adak from 7/69 thru 3/70. Was a 'T' brancer at Zeto Point. Chiefs MacDonald and Brummett were the Dep't and Ops chiefs respectively. Only spent 9 months there, thanks to a 3 month early out. I wished I could have stayed at least the full year or maybe longer. I went to Adak after spending two years in Todendorf. So many people gave me their condolences and said I was going from heaven to hell. Although they were two very different duty stations, they were each great in their own unique way. From the time I landed on the island, I was overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of its pristine environment. For a New York City kid, it was quite a profound, almost spiritual experience (don't mean to sound too dramatic). The feelings I felt then are still with me today. My first experience was the flight and landing on the island. We came in swaying from side to side and took bets on which wing was going to hit the runway first. Never thought I'd be so glad to be on the ground. Those RAA pilots have to be the best in the industry. The greatest thrill for me was the hiking and exploring and being surrounded by all the natural beauty of the island and its wildlife. Climbed Mt. Moffett and Adagdak. Awed by the summer colors of the tundra and wild flowers and the never ending sights of bald eagles, sea otters, red foxes, ptarmigans, caribou. To this day, I never experienced the fishing as great as it was on Adak. Dolly Vardens, Rainbow trout and the Salmon. I've never seen so many herring gather in one place as I did under candlestick bridge. They were there for the snagging. The weekly tremors were scary and exciting at the same time. So were the tsunamii warnings. Remember the time we had to evacuate Zeto Point and head for higher ground. Worked on a crab processing ship in Finger Bay. We ate more crab meat while on the processing line than actually made it to packaging and the ship's freezer. Thoroughly enjoyed the cook outs at the boat house on Lake Andrew. Can picture Chiefs MacDonald and Brummett flipping burgers for the troops (and the beer stayed so cold in the lake). Was there for the October 69 underground blast of a 1.2 megaton nuclear bomb on Amchitka Island. If we knew then what we know now about the ecological damage and cancers suffered by the workers on the island and the Aleuts on surrounding islands, we wouldn't have acted so cavelier at the time. I can still visualize many of the faces I served with, however, most of the names have faded. Must be that age thing. I do remember my room mate, Wild Bill, who loved to hunt. I believe we were in room 205. I'd love to get in touch with Chief Brummett. He was a great person and had a wonderful family. They made everyone feel a part of it. I will never forget the sense of comraderie we all shared due to the isolation. Had great times at the club watching movies and drinking OLYs. Never had or seen another OLY since I left the island. Can't forget the never ending card games and the number of books and magazines read. Now back to the present time. I've been married 31 years to a wonderful lady and have three great daughters. Started working for AT&T after my dischage in 4/70 and have almost 32 years service. Between college educations followed by weddings, I won't be retiring anytime soon. Would love to hear from any/all of you that might remember me. Wishing all my fellow CTers good heatlth and happiness always.

Bill (Smitty) Smithson

William (Bill/Smitty) E. Smithson

bsmithson@adelphia.net
Boca Raton, FL USA - Thursday, July 26, 2001 at 16:02:11 (PDT)

Wow! For all of the years I spent on the Rock....I have not many pics. Thank you for sharing yours! We moved to Adak when I was four years old in 1966 and left in 1977. My father was Assistant and then Fire Chief. Ronald Cotten. My mother cooked in the school cafeteria. I see my old babysitter wrote here, John LaRue. Hiya, John!

Christy <Cotten> Rohl

crohl@houston.rr.com, TX USA - Thursday, July 19, 2001 at 07:56:38 (PDT)

CTM3 '74-75 NSGA Adak HFDF. Wondering about all my friends from 33(M) Division.

Lou Castellano

rodent@ix.netcom.com
Babylon, NY USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 17:56:49 (PDT)

I was stationed at NavFac Adak from November 1970 until November 1971. I was a YN2 in the Admin Office. I have wonderful memories of my year on "The Rock". I would love to go back and visit someday. If anyone was stationed at NavFac at that time, I would like to hear from them.

Mike Dwiggins

Michael Dwiggins

slobispo@aol.com USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 16:22:48 (PDT)

Great site for those of us who endured Adak. I have a few photos of Adak and personnel (mostly Marine CT's) that I could send to you if you like. They are taken in 1962 and 1963.

Jay Adams former SSgt USMC 10 yrs NSG R brancher and I brancher.

Jay A. Adams

jay@napanet.net
Napa, CA USA - Sunday, July 15, 2001 at 15:43:49 (PDT)

Things a person runs into on this net.
I spent 13 months on adak as a flight crewman with the Navy.
We flew air sea rescue all thru the islands from 1952-1954 as well as checking on abandoned airstrips and supplies.
Flew as second radio aboard PBY5As.
Also Hauled personnel to and from Atka, Dutch Harbora and Shemya.
My memories of that island chain are of rain, sleet, mist, snow, ice, fog, drizzle and sun maybe once a month if you looked fast enough to catch it.
Nice to know there are people out there who actually enjoyed that island of tundra.
Say, has the ghost of Sam, the big Malamute ever been seen walking around the Adak National Forest?
And then there was Yakatak? Been so long I'm not sure if that's the correct spelling.
Anyhoo, spent many long and cold hours in that beast of a hanger checking and repairing radio and radar equipment and helping prep the ole P-Boat for flight time.
Course, the good side was the AF Enlisted men's bar right outside and just up the hill for those who wished to whet their whistles after duty hours.
Many thanks, thoroughly enjoyed the site, keep it up.

Gerry Curry

gcurry@earthlink.net
stockton, ca USA - Monday, July 09, 2001 at 10:51:48 (PDT)

I was stationed at Adak between 9/67 to 9/68. CTT, worked out at Zeto Point. I loved ole ShoGo. Remember her first litter. I remember we named two of her pups "Lionus and Charlie Brown". During "downtime" when at work we used to go into the basement (only had the old operations building back then) and fire up the old projector and would watch 16mm copies of Star Trek and Mission Impossible. We used to get a new reel every two weeks or so of these two TV shows.
I was really sad to hear of ShoGo's fate. She deserved to go out better than that.
I wonder if any tried to hike out to the southern side of Adak. We went out to the 'Bay of Islands" twice. It was a long 5 hour hike from "downtown" and about halfway across Adak along its west coast. We wanted to go to the "Bay of Waterfalls" which is on Adak's southern coast. A two day trip but after spending the first night trying to sleep outdoors with no shelter we turned back on the second day. We never did get to see the Bay of Waterfalls. The name alone sounded like a camera users delight.
I too spent a lot of time at KL7AIZ running phone patches and the like. One of the other radio hams contacted a professer at some college (University of Alaska?) in Anchorage on the radio and he mentioned that they were going to do a survey of the next island out (to the west) in the chain. It had a perfect volcano cone and looked like a miniture Mt. Fuji. (No this was not Mt. Sitkin but on a island that you could not see unless you went to the western end of Adak on a clear day. Anyway the professor asked if we would handle communication with them when they went to this island for a couple of weeks. We would contact then twice a day on the 75 meter ham band to make sure they were ok. When it came time for them to leave we were invited to ride along on the naval fleet tug that went out to this island to pick them up. I got many pictures of Adak from a perspective that few ever got the chance to see. Do you know there is a large waterfall that flows off Mt. Moffet (Andrew) on its western side?
Thanks for the memories and pics guys!

Rick Gridley

argee@adelphia.net
Ravenna, Oh USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 06:42:52 (PDT)

i loved adak, was stationed at nsga from 1985 thru 1986, would love to go back for the fishing, and i remember all those things you list very well

chad moyer

jcwhimsies@planetcomm.net
mathias, wv USA - Friday, June 29, 2001 at 20:55:26 (PDT)

Hi Bill, Thanks for the trip down memory lane! I was stationed on Adak from June 65 to June 66. I was attached to the Power Plants Div for the first 10 months and then was transfred to Transportation Div.

Larry Pushman

LarPush@aol.com
Lutz, Fl USA - Sunday, June 24, 2001 at 13:56:46 (PDT)

When I was on active duty 1969-1972, I feared a transfer to Adak. After leaving service in 1972, I joined the NSG Reserves. In 1977 or 1978, I received orders for two weeks active duty at Adak, which was unheard of at time. When myself and two brothers from Nashville arrived, people couldn't believe we were "short timers" there for two weeks. It was one of the best two-weeks active duty I had. It was so good that I went back in 1981 for another two weeks. I'll never forget that one day that I got up and looked outside and it was another world. The sun was out! I only saw it one time during both trips!
For any of the SecGrp that didn't get to Adak, they couldn't imagine what they missed!
Tommy Clifton ex CTR2

Tommy Clifton

tclifton@cableone.net
Anniston, AL USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 17:59:52 (PDT)

loved the page. good to see you proud of your service.
thanx

CTI3 Combellick

elazor@netzero.net
Fort Meade, MD USA - Tuesday, June 19, 2001 at 18:20:27 (PDT)

Great site!

I did my tour on "The Rock" from November 1950 to November 1951. Stationed at the NavCommSta. Arrived shortly after the completion of the new (then) facility. Drake Puget Sound construction workers still putting the finishing touches on things. BOQ not completed, so Brass still lived in the quonset huts up on the hill.

I was a Dayworker at the Comm Bldg. and had a lot of spare time so I managed to get a job tending bar at the EM Club. Manager was CT1 Tom Wyatt. Co-bartender was a fellow named ? Duty (CT1) was also served as the "Personel Officer". Worked under a CTC "Mo" Cox. I still stay in touch with Jack Peaslee (Sonora, CA), who kept the telephone system running. Occasionally see Les "The Runt" Hill who lives in Springfield, OR. He was my cubicle mate. We had the very end cubicle, which was large compared to the others, so we occasionaly hosted the payday crap game. Made the mistake of letting a fellow set up a crock full of fermenting "Raisin Jack", provided we got a quart of it. Worst hangover I ever had!! Prayed for death..

When it was time for me to go back to the states, my rifle, which I had not seen since they gave it to me upon arrival was missing. Panic!! Duty officer got on PA System and announced the problem saying" It could be you next, so how about a little help". Gun showed up in about 15 minutes, Whew!!

The stories of shooting rats at the dump reminds me that we drill out some ammo and made them hollow points. Shoot a rat and get an explosion of guts and fur!

Shortly after I arrived the station barber left and we started looking a little shaggy. A fellow named Smiley bought a barber kit from Sears and started cutting hair. For a while it was questionable as to which was worse...shaggy or his work. He did end up doing a decent job.

Left to go to Washington DC via Fairbanks, AK. It was 50 below and all I had was a peacoat. Saw my first Eskimo. Did 2 years at Nebraska Ave in DC.

Max Hollis
CT2

Max Hollis

madmax@ctaz.com
Lake Havasu City, AZ USA - Monday, June 11, 2001 at 17:54:58 (PDT)

Thanks so much for the memory tour..... I was at Adak two different times. From 69 to 71 I was a civilian dependent - one of about 5 or 6 single women on the island - what memories THAT brings back.... My Dad was Bill Hays - the last automotive body and fender man in the Navy.... I remember one time he was getting ready to go out on "renewal" (we renewed our transportation agreements every 12 months in those days), and he was down at the airport waiting for the C-141 MAC plane (civilians had to ride military aircraft only in those days...) and his Seabees down at Transportation (Red Shed) installed a flashing red light on the CO's official vehicle.... the only problem was - they installed it right in the middle of the roof - like a cop car... He actually wanted it down by the front grill of the vehicle. Anyway - I remember them coming down to the air terminal - getting Daddy and having him go back to work to repair the hole in the CO's car before he flew out. They even held the MAC plane for him. Dad's in Heaven now (in case anyone reading this is old enough to remember him), but remained a fan of the old island until the day he passed on.

From 1976 - 1981 I was back as an old married lady with two kids (Well - actually - one of them was born at the Adak Dispensary in 1976 - we were the only in-patients there). I was the Control Division Director in the Supply Department - any old SKs out there??? I remember completely furnishing the Bayshore Housing Area and we didn't buy a single stick of new furniture - got it all from Elmendorf and had it re-finished and re-upholstered.... Also - I remember inventory-ing all the food in stock at the Blue Shed - and at Cold Storage - and then excessing alot of it to the Commissary - (we really had 10 times as much food up there as the poor Mess Chief could EVER use) - then going to the Commissary myself and buying some of it... Some of it was pretty good stuff!!!

I remember so many wonderful times and I just loved your pictures. I also enjoyed reading everyone else's guest book entries. We truly are a special group of humans. Few others would ever understand a person having such affection for a "rock"....

My best wishes to all my fellow "Adakians", military and civilian alike!

Connie Hays

haysconnie@home.com
Salem, OR USA - Thursday, June 07, 2001 at 14:30:51 (PDT)

My dad was stationed on Adak in 73-74, as the Chief running the Post Office. This site brought back some fond memories of what a fun place this was for a 13/14 year old boy. Would love to visit with my own boys some day. Thanks for the site.

Doyt Ladd

dladd@tiaa-cref.org
St. Louis, MO USA - Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 12:51:10 (PDT)

I was on Adak from Feb. 52 to Aug. 53. I was CT2 and had just completed ET school at Treasure Island. They sent some of us there to learn to repair receivers and transmitters but spent most of our time on radar, sonar and fire control but it was a good education, typical Navy. Your pictures of Adak are hard to tell from the ones I took 20 yrs. earlier which tells you something about Adak. Like you we all hated the place but managed to make the best of it and have fun to. I found your web site while looking for something else and have very much enjoyed it. If there are any really old CT's out there I'd like to hear from them. I joined the Navy in 1947 and was sent to Nebraska Ave. from bootcamp from there to other schools and stations, then back to Ft. Meyer Va. to work on the first computer used for cryptography and discharged Nov. 54.

Jack E. Peaslee

jacke@jps.net
Sonora, Ca. USA - Tuesday, May 29, 2001 at 16:04:41 (PDT)

THANK YOU FOR AN AWSOME WEB SITE WHICH HAS REUNITED MAY TWIN BROTHER AND I WITH """ROCK MATES""" FROM 40 YEARS AGO. MY TWIN BROTHER DON AND I (DAVE) GOT ORDERS FROM IMPERIAL BEACH FOR ADAK AND SERVED THERE FROM 1961 TO 1962. WE WERE BOTH R-BRANCHERS AND HAVE BEEN SHARING THE MOMORIES WITH OTHER ROCK-MATES ALSO PICTURES BY SNAIL MIAL AND E-MAIL. HOPE TO HAVE EYE-BALL QSO'S SOME DAY. FROM ADAK WE WENT TO SABANA SECA, PUERTO RICO. QUITE A CHANGE. 73'S DAVE AND DON GURNEY---WA1YZH AND W4PRL

DAVID C. GURNEY

DAVENJENNIE@GATEWAY.NET
ABINGTON, MA USA - Sunday, May 27, 2001 at 11:02:08 (PDT)

Served on the "Rock" from May 1956 through May 1956. Would
like to hear from anyone there during that time. Have already heard from Jim Hare, Bill Darcy, and Bill Cannon.

Larry B. Mills

lbmills@aol.com
Flagstaff, Az USA - Saturday, May 26, 2001 at 06:40:48 (PDT)

My father CTM1 Michael Urness was stationed on Adak from 1977 to 1979. He is still around and kicking at NSA I can give anyone his email if they are interested.

CTM2(SW/AW) Jeff Urness

jurness@washington.navy.mil
Norfolk, VA USA - Friday, May 25, 2001 at 09:37:04 (PDT)

Guess when I got to Adak? I was a flight forecaster at NOCD. Are there any AG types still around, Mark, Kevin, Tina, Big Kathy, little Kathy?

Jim Wieske

Adak80@aol.com
Bedford, TX USA - Friday, May 18, 2001 at 17:04:55 (PDT)

Great site. I was on Adak from June '71 to May '72. I was
a T-brancher and lived most of the time in K-Dorm. The last
6 months I was there I worked out of a Ford Econoline van
that was tied down to the tundra out at Zeto Point. I used
to come in and use your bathroom! I have many of the same
photographs you have posted and recognized a couple of names
on the message board, Jon Kessel, Frannie Ponder.
Now that I am aware of this site,I'll check in regularly.

Ken Wells

Ken Wells

wells@northnet.org
Sackets Harbor, NY USA - Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 07:20:26 (PDT)

Great Site!!! I was stationed at NSGA Adak with my wife Julie, and daughter Erin, from Sept. 1988 - Jul 1990. Spent a lot of time hunting and fishing and just enjoying the great outdoors. Made lots of great friends, CPL Bill Vannoy, CTR1 Tom Macmillan, CTTC Joe Hartranft, and the list goes on. Super group of people to serve with. Thanks to my sponsor, Michelle Silverthorn, you made the transition from Sabana Seca, PR to Adak as smooth as it could possibly be. Any 88-90 Adakians that remember me, feel free to contact me at rdean116@hotmail.com.

Dean Powell

rdean116@hotmail.com
Jackson, GA USA - Tuesday, May 15, 2001 at 18:37:01 (PDT)

My step-father (he was my fathers best friend at the time, long story) was the cook at the Lodge, and I think he was a cook in the Navy. His name was Smitty, and he had an IH jeep the he always worked on. We were there in early 70's, and I recently saw a special that renewed my interest in Adak. Adak was the last place in my life, before I was an adult, that I have happy memories of.

Lori

simon17sez@yahoo.com USA - Monday, May 07, 2001 at 11:20:24 (PDT)

I really enjoyed looking at all the pics, brought back many many memories. I was stationed there 49-50. Was my first duty station after Bainbridge Island. Lived in a quonset hut named I-PHELTA-THI. Sure would like to hear from any one who lived there those years.

Bob Etchberger

etch1929@cs.com
Summerfield, Fla USA - Wednesday, May 02, 2001 at 16:24:25 (PDT)