General Dynamics F-111
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Bill Russell, e-mail, 22.11.2023 00:32

MRS Dethman,
My name is Bill Russell and I live in Clovis NM. In my younger years I was in the 428th TFS in Las Vegas Nevada under the command of your husband Col. Ivan Dethman with Harvest Reaper and Combat Lancer in Thailand. That experience was one of the most rewarding times of my life and cannot begin to tell you the respect of the men that served under him held. To this date I am humbled to have had that experience. As we have all aged I pray this message meets you or your family in a timely manner to allow me and those men under him to express that appreciation !! GOD BLESS, Bill Russell 575-760-8282


Bob Frett, e-mail, 13.03.2023 00:44

I was with Blue 2 at RAF Upper Heyford 1974 to 1978. Went to the 27th Wing in 1978 back to the UK to work A10s with the 81st Wing from 1980 to 1984 . Sent to Cannon 27th Wing to work the F-111D with the 523rd AMU and a maintainer 45274 as Crew Chief of 68-114 until I retired a an E-7 in 1991.Good times !


Don McCarthy, e-mail, 19.11.2022 14:22

James,

Might you have photos of 67-0022 and 67-0024? Or other F-111s from 428th TFS?

If so would love to discuss the possibility of obtaining for a book project

Regards,
Don McCarthy (MAC)


bill russell, e-mail, 04.02.2022 01:20

Hello James, I also was with the 428th tfs for Harvest Reaper and Combat Lancer. Capt Denny Grahm was the WSO in 022 the night it was lost. You probably know both Denny and Maj McCann who was the pilot. Both great men. Talked to Billy Grahm, Dennys brother, a few years back, and it was humbling to say the least. We can probably share some stories. Feel free to email any time. God Bless, Bill Russell Clovis NM


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SRA JOHN F PANIK JR, e-mail, 18.10.2020 08:12

I was at Mt Home AFB from 1981-FEB 1984 I was in the 389TH Yellow Squadron, in Supply under the new COSO project. I worked the graveyard shift from 2400-0800 mostly. looking for friends that remember me. I was 6'2" 23 years old when I got out. Looking for my Supervisors Sgt Pontomski, Sgt Barboa, or any other supply personal on the other shifts And any maintenance friends. I lived in the dorms and was part of the Honor Guard Team as well. I have a lot of pictures of my friends,,,,and soon will be posting them on my web site: paniks.com


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Klaatu, e-mail, 17.04.2017 14:47

The Dreadful F-111 was a result the thinking of Robert McNamara, the equally dreadful "Whiz-Kid" Secretary of Defense who came from the world of business and banking, and knew nothing about the military. Among other things, McNamara couldn't understand why the military needed different aircraft to cary out different missions, and could see no reason why the Air Force and the Navy should not use the same aircraft. It seemed to McNamara, who was a mostly a systems analyst, that the military would FAR more efficient if it had only ONE combat aircraft that could do EVERYTHING. The result was the F-111, which was supposed to operate off both land bases for the Air Force and carrier decks for the Navy, and to carry out fighter, bomber and reconnaissance missions. I the end it served the Air Force only in a limited capacity as a bomber and in the electronic jamming roles. The Navy rejected it outright as too heavy and underpowered to operate off any of their carrier decks.


Kevin Pratley, e-mail, 24.05.2015 00:13

Dave Ross: I got to Nellis in June 1973 in flight line A-shop, worked days a short spell, then got smart & went to nights...your name seems familiar; I remember a bunch of guys getting back from Tahkli that year: Hashimoto, Michaelson; I worked with Steve Tihen, Kenji UYESUGI, Randy Goodner to name a few...went to Heyford then Mtn Home, got out in '77 been here ever since then...great state, Idaho; run into F111 folks every so often


Kevin Willford, e-mail, 10.02.2015 20:51

After tech school at Chaunte AFB I was stationed at Mtn Home AFB, ID. As a new API (autopilot instruments) specialist I was assigned to the 366th AGS / 390th AMU. Better known as Green Section. We worked in the hangers near the engine shop. The F111A was a great plane to work on. Along the line I was able to get engine run certified. What a blast to set on the ramp or better yet the trim pad and run the engines. I was also pick for a 1 hour flight. Capt "Buck" Nelson was the pilot I flew with. AMAZING. My OIC, whose name I cant remember, allowed me to wear his flight suit complete with patches and green scarf for my flight. I was at Mtn Home from the spring of 1978 to Nov 1981. I crossed trained and ended my Air Force career working for NSA in 1986. Great times, friends, and memories. kbwillford@gmail.com


Rocky L Clark, e-mail, 25.12.2014 07:42

Please email me Kenneth Miller was my uncle and if you remember me I was stationed in Raf Lakenheath Eng . I came to your home many times. Please email me. I also have a few years on the F-111. That was almost 40 years ago cousin. My mother was Evelyn Clark . Email me


Klaatu83, e-mail, 07.11.2014 19:31

The F-111 was supposed to satisfy Robert McNamara's requirement for one single type of aircraft that would fulfill every combat requirement: USAF fighter, ground attack, reconnaissance and strategic bomber; as well as Navy carrier-based fighter, reconnaissance and attack-bomber. It was an overly-ambitious concept that could never have worked because, when you try to please everybody, you invariably end up satisfying nobody. Right off the bat the Navy, for one, wanted nothing whatever to do with it. Still, I suppose, it must be acknowledged that the Australians seem to have liked them well enough.


Mac mcintire, e-mail, 26.04.2014 07:07

79 tiger tiger 81-84 fws det -2 instructor 1985-87 55th 1987-1992. Dessert shield/storm. Miss it and England. Got hurt flying f16


John Furney, e-mail, 29.03.2014 02:46

anyone out there from 474th 1967 to 1971 4527th, 4481st,428th, and 430th, I was a crew chief on several planes, love to hear from you guys. 702-468-9654


James Francisco, e-mail, 15.01.2014 01:54

I was an instrument/autopilot tech on the F111D at Cannon AFB from 71 to 74. I never understood the bad reputation this airplane had. I thought it was and still is an amazing airplane. Its AFCS was very high tech. I don't think that some of the pilots fully understood its capabilities. I was an instructor at Chanute from 74-77 and an FTD instructor at Mountain Home I'd from 77-80.


Al Quattrin, e-mail, 24.10.2013 07:39

was crew chief on 71-0887 f-111f at mountain home 1973-1975 was a great flyer was lucky enough to fly a 3 hour mission in it , will never forget !


william smith, e-mail, 03.10.2013 19:27

I was f 111 general foreman for ppg(Pittsburgh plate glass)in Creighton pa. we developed special glass for windshields and canopies. all new technologies for these parts.cost per panel was $20,000.lots more info available.oct,3,2013


John Furney, e-mail, 03.10.2013 00:10

Crew Chief, Nellis 1968-1971, 4527th Bat Sqd. 428th and the 430th. like to hear from the old crew. NCOIC: Gibson and Reuse.


Jim Connor AKA cookie, e-mail, 01.09.2013 20:20

Worked as a crew chief on F-111 A, E, D models at Cannon AFB from Sept.1969 thru Feb.1973...


Dean Kraus, e-mail, 04.08.2013 18:43

I was with F-111's ~ Nellis ~ Takhli ~ Upper Heyford.
SSGT Dean Kraus ARS AFSC 32672A


john panik, e-mail, 22.05.2013 01:30

my base was mt home 1980-1984 i'm trying to find col.colman our wing comander for the 366tfw i was in the amu 389th trying to get an f111a from the boneyard and brought down to florida....any info would be great.
great bird.


james, e-mail, 21.04.2013 23:48

Our men will always rule the skies


Dave Richardson, e-mail, 25.03.2013 11:52

The RAAF is about to place retired RAAF F-111C A8-109 on display. I'm trying to find out if A8-109 (which originally flew with the USAF as F-111A 67-109) could be the highest time F-111 in the world at 7946 airframe hours. Any USAF F-111 folk able to provide authoritative data which would beat that?


Russell Burge, e-mail, 15.02.2013 04:55

Went to Nellis out of tech school 1969 Was discharged April 1973 Went TDY to Tahkli Sept 72-Mar. 73 Airframe repair shop 474FMS.


Randy Nelson, e-mail, 09.02.2013 04:36

Worked with General Dynamics, Fort Worth Division during entire production of the F111. Responsible for Avionics Systems on the Flight Line, and was "Up Front and Personal" with the aircraft for five years. Only have good things to say about its performance.


James walker, e-mail, 17.11.2012 05:32

I was crew chief of the f-111a tail no. 022 and 024. Both of these aircraft was lost and their crews, four fine men, died in service to their country. It was a sad experience for me and all of us in Combat Lancer and the 428TFS in Takhli, thailand. 1968


Lester Hahn, MSgt. Ret., e-mail, 01.10.2012 03:52

I was assigned to the 474th Field Maintenance Squadron Electric Shop at Nellis AFB. Went to school on the F-111 and then reassigned to the 20th FMS at RAF Upper Heyford, England, with the F-111E Aircraft. Felt proud to have worked on the F-111 Aircraft from 1971 to 1975. I remember a lot of great guys I worked with like Sgt. Sellers, Sgt. Call, Sgt. Thompson, Major Andersen, Sgt. Williams. and many others.


Carl Droste, e-mail, 18.09.2012 02:05

I am preparing a presentation on the F-111 and would like to know the total flight hours for the F-111 over its entire life. Even a wild guess would be a help.


Mark Z, e-mail, 14.07.2012 17:54

I was a Security Policeman at Nellis from July 77-Jan 79. Love watching the 111's fly and was sad when they transferred the squadron to Mt. Home. One of the things I really liked was the main landing gear when parked made a perfect concealed chaise lounge for my occasional naps on those balmy summer nights in Vegas!


Jim Robilotta, e-mail, 12.07.2012 21:15

I am building a 1/48 model of the Vark dressed in 48st TFS 27 TFW, circa 1971 colors. My father was with the 481st as they brought the 111's on line so this model is to represent one of those. I need help in using an accurate tail number. I would appreciate any guidance and/or photos as there are none on the internet. Jim Falls, weren't you one of the young pilots, along with Paul Johnson, in the squadron back then?


Gary Knoll, e-mail, 05.07.2012 03:03

I was stationed at Nellis from Jan 70 to Jan 74. I was a crew chief with the 428th tfs on the bluetail 111's. Went to Takhli in sep 72 and was crew chief on the yellow tails 67072 up thru 67078. I remember major Ward who did not come back the night of the Christmas bombings Dec 18 1972. I also remember you Proffitt, and Eddie Nunn. Send email.


Sean Donahue, e-mail, 21.06.2012 10:56

Electric Fox? We always called the EF the Sparkvark......

F-111F's....492nd TFS, RAF Lakenheath 87-89 BOLARS!!!


John Shipman, e-mail, 17.06.2012 19:04

I Flew the the F-111D at Cannon, from 1986 through 1990. What a great and capable airplane. I know people say it wasn't a real fighter, but in the right hands, with the right tatics and environment it could hold its own against any other fighter out there. I have the gun film to prove it! Plus, the Aardvark is still unmatched in its payload, range, all-weather/night capability. And let's not forget its speed, personally have been 1.1 mach @100' and 2.5 + at high altitude. Lots of great fun back in those days in the 522 Fireballs. Schlep.


Tim Warren, t1warren@yahoo.com, e-mail, 19.02.2012 02:10

Assigned to the 474AMS at Nellis from 1976-77, then to RAF Lakenheath from 1977-79. What a great airframe to work on, mostly. This was before COMO. Left the avionics at the end of my tour at Lakenheath.


Lyle, e-mail, 13.02.2012 08:53

10/69 5/73 428th TFS with TDYs to Eglin AFB and a wonderful tour Guam for the 72 Christmas bombing of NVN


John Van Dyke, e-mail, 12.02.2012 04:33

I stumbled across this site. My first time with the F-111A was at Nellis, 428th. I worked as a crew chief on 67-054. Later was the worker/supervisor for aircraft 67-051 through 67-058. Deployed to Takhli, late 72 to Mar 73. Daytime flight chief for the lower numbered "yellow-tails". Later, worked in QC as MSEP monitor. PCS assignment to Pease as QC inspector. Then, December 1978, on to HQ/SAC/LGMS. In 1981, went on to Sacramento/ALC as "one deep" position as laision for FB-111A. Then on to RAF Fairford, KC-135's. TDY's to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Retired at George AFB, CA, 1989. WOrked for "Peace Sentinel" Royal Saudi Air Force, under Boeing, 1989 through 1995.


Chris Slabach, e-mail, 23.01.2012 23:35

Sgt for Avionics Ground crew...Pease, What a "crew" we had! Best team I have ever been on...Great memories


G.BEDINGER, 16.01.2012 08:19

THE F-111 WAS A GREAT AIRPLANE.THE F-111 SHOULD'VE BEEN FLOWN WITHIN THE U.S.NAVY.QUITE A FEW F-111s WERE LOST DURING THE VIETNAM WAR.I REMEMBER WHEN PRESIDENT REAGAN ORDERED THE U.S. AIR FORCE TO BOMB LIBYA BACK IN 1980,I THINK,AND KADAFFY GOT A WHIPPING THAT HE DESERVED,YEAH!!!!


Jim Richard, e-mail, 03.01.2012 11:09

I remember around 1978 at McClellan's AFLC around the summer when an F111 pilot was taxing in position to take off northward. he revved up the Grumman twin engine I believe he was checking his afterburners when the engines went to a "drop out thrust" decrease and the engine nearly flammed out! The crew here able to tax the aircraft safely to one of the nearby docks. What a luckly day for the crew.


molnibalage, e-mail, 03.01.2012 01:39

I wrote - collected and translated materials - an article about the F-111. It is free, I do not any intention to make money. It is written in Hungarian. As I see many people have posted comments who worked on any variants of F-111 or was a crew member. Is there any material, technical description, unclassified data, photos, old manuals, ect. that can be shared? I wish to upgrade the stuff, and it seems to me the best option to get information who had direct contact with the one-eleven. Any interesting or funny story with F-111 is welcomed. Of course source is shown if I get anything.
Molny


Jerry Walterreit, USAF Retired, e-mail, 29.12.2011 21:36

In July 1967 I was assigned to the 4539th Fighter Weapons Sq. at Nellis AFB. I was an instrument technician and worked on the F 105 until we received the F-111. Working in the maintenance field I thought we had an aircraft that could do amazing things in the air but was also designed for the maintenance technician. Most of our system components were very accessible. In some cases you could press a button and it would tell you what components was defective. Back then it was amazing. Unfortunately, the aircraft were grounded 1969 do to structural problems. During that time I was transferred to instructor duty and ended up teaching the F-111 vertical scale flight instrument system at Chanute AFB, Ill. I was very glad to hear that the structural problems were solved and the F-111 served well the rest of its career. After instructor duty I spent the remainder of my career with the F4. It did a great job but it definitely wasn't designed for the maintenance technician.


T. Gray, e-mail, 28.12.2011 06:35

Served at Nellis 69 to 72 430TFS Comm/Nav "Avionics" Made two TDY's one to AUS in Spg of 71 Selling airplanes to the AAF. The other was to Seymour/Johnson for the send off to England to Establish the First F-111A Squadron in England. To catch up on Unit details check Together We Served AF website.


Rob Keith, e-mail, 24.10.2011 22:10

Transferred to Nellis AFB June 1968 from RF4C in UK. Flew F111A and T-33 with 428 TFS. Combat Crew with Dave Barnes and Sq Maintenance Officer. 474 FMS Commander 1970. Xtfr to Vietnam as Advisor in 1971. Back to 474 in 1972 as Chief Of Maintenance. TDY to Takhli 1973 as Chief of Maintenance,return to Nellis same job. 1974 Director of Logistics for B/Gen Robbie Risner 832 AD, Cannon AFB, NM for F-111A, D ,F. Xtfr to PACAF Hq as LGM. Ret 1977 Live in Jacksonville Fl. Fastest flight on test hop 1,750 mph ground speed.


Steve Johnson, e-mail, 27.08.2011 11:44

I was a crew chief on the f-111a & even though it was a pain to take parts from one so yours could fly, I will always remember watching it take off & land, flying was something to see. The night flights were the best, watching the after burners light up the sky while it took off. I was lucky enough to have the privlage of getting the chance to fly on the F-11a I had worked on before I was discharged, Ahh, the memories!


Mike Smith, e-mail, 10.08.2011 23:53

Was stationed at Cannon from July 1979 until March 1982 the back April 1983 to November 1986. I started out in Green section then moved to Yellow when it closed and back in yellow after my year in Korea. Enjoyed being a Crew Chief on the F-11D and at times even enjoyed my assignment at Cannon but I think that was just the people.


Sgt. Ron Gray, e-mail, 09.07.2011 02:19

Was assigned to the new FB111A at Pease AFB right out of tech school. Never regretted my time working on the 111. Being it was new to SAC, we all teamed up to understand and fix all problems. The tech manuals were some help at best, but we kept them flying and proud to have done so. Still miss the guys and time in.


Gary Thomsen, e-mail, 08.07.2011 20:23

I flew the F-111 from 1972 through 1984 (just under 2,000 hours) and was lucky to fly all models except the B & C. My favorites were the D & F. The D because of the MSD and the F because of it's better performance and Pave Tack. I'm sorry that I missed the Fort Worth reunion (12/2010)after the Aussies retired the last F-111s. I will always remember the thrill of night TFR. My fastest F-111 flight was 2.46 mach. I had the privilage of being the 493TFS commander (1982-1984)


Craig Battenberg, e-mail, 28.06.2011 14:19

I read everthing you gentleman wrote. I was a airforce Brat. My father was at UH 70/74 Work in the Maintance Shop at the end of the Base by the High School. I loved watching to Old Bird Fly,Sad when we lost in a crash on Scotland. My DAD was SMsgt. Battenberg he passed Away Six year now. Thanks for bringing my DAD's Memories back to me.


Bill Proffitt, e-mail, 22.06.2011 19:37

Went to Nellis 1971 out of Tech School as a 428 TFS Crew Chief. While at Nellis was deployed to Takhli, Thailand twice. Once for 4 months and once for 6 months with 30 days in between. As i think about the time there I remember Eddie Nunn, who I keep contact with, Ronnie Schults, i have no idea where he's at, Gary Hogan, now living in Tifton, Ga, Jerry Walker, who i'd like to find out where's he's at now and many others. I worked on an F-111 getting it preflighted and ready to go, but unfortuantely it never returned. I did not hear if the crew made it or not. I don't miss the Old Pork Chop Panel under the engine's and panel 3210 on top of the plane.


John Jarriel, e-mail, 17.05.2011 20:36

F111 crewchief at nellis 1971-1974 under Col. Powers. Looking for Senior Master Sargent Mendenhall and any others from the 430th l served with.


Lee, e-mail, 07.05.2011 00:56

The F-111D has always been my favourite variant because of it's digital cockpit. I understand that it was initially plagued with maintenance issues as it was ahead of its time.
The WSO's MSD (Multi Sensor Display) initially had a row of white circular buttons with triangular LEDs above them. This was later updated to a row of square black buttons below the screen. Each with similar green triangle shaped LEDs embedded within them, that light up when that buttons function is active.
Does anyone know when this MSD upgrade occured?

Thanks
Lee


Russell Burge, e-mail, 19.04.2011 05:30

Went to Nellis from tech school Oct. 1969 I worked out of the 474th FMS airframe repair shop. Wen TDY to Tahkli Sept.72-March of 73. Does anyone remember Col. Willam Thomas? Was our sq. Commander for awhile. Best office in the AF. Does anyone remember Joe Curry? Worked 474th FMS AR shop.


A Miller, e-mail, 16.04.2011 23:40

We were stationed at Cannon AFB from 1972 to 1975 and the to Mtn Home AFB must say I recognized a lot of names from Cannon and Nellis on this thread. David finally retired after 3 more bases and 22 yrs and went to work at the bombing range for awhile. I moved on with my life and now live by the runway at Dyess so I do still love the sound of a USAF plane keeping me safe. Thanks for serving and for continuing to support all of us who truly appreciate you. Angel


Dave Matthews, e-mail, 15.04.2011 03:33

In answer to C S Ting, the 20mm Gatling gun was mounted on a trapeze and stowed in the weapons bay. It extended into the airstream for firing and was then retracted for streamlining. The advent of the Pave Tack system made it a nightmare, as only the gun or Pave Tack could be carried at a time. The gun was removed as an option during development of the digital flight control system due to vibration concerns. I doubt anyone in maintenance was sorry it was gone!


Jim Walker, e-mail, 10.03.2011 02:19

I was a crew chief on an F111A. 67-114. 430 TFS, 474TFW. Nellis AFB, Nevada. Dec.68 - June 72. Great airplane and alot of great memories.


Charley Hahn, e-mail, 08.03.2011 04:51

I was a Navy flight crew member in the SP5B seaplane, the last of the "flying boats". Shortly after separation from the Navy, I was employed as a flight test electroncs tech and later a supervisor for General Dynamics in 1966 - 1969. My initial assignment in 1967 was to support the electronics functions on F-111A #1 at the Grumman facility in Riverhead, NY. Our test mission was engine propulsion. While at Riverhead I witnessed, what I believe to be the crash of the last Navy version to fly. The aircraft stalled on takeoff and crashed on the runway killing both the pilot and weapons system operator. From 1968 - 1969, I was assigned to the F-111 contractor test facility at Eglin AFB in Florida. At Eglin, I was in charge of all electronics systems testing, which at any time included from 1 to 3 aircraft. We conducted propulsion, bomb load, environmental, 20mm cannon, and other tests during my assignment. We performed the first ariel testing of the 20mm cannon. During one of the original tests, the bombay, in which the cannon was located, exploded. This was due to a gas build up in the bombay, which was later modified to include a release vent in the rear of the bombay to relieve the build up of gases. On another occastion, the canopy on the weapons systmes operator's side of the aircraft opened up in flight. On neither of these occasions did it result in harm to the crew and the aircraft returned safely. For its time, the F-111 was a technological challenge, but overall, it was a great aircraft. I left GD in 1970 to return to college and never worked in the industry again. Great experience on a wonderful aircraft.


Carl Newman, e-mail, 07.03.2011 03:50

I was a pilot in both the F-111A and EF-111A at Mt Home AFB from 1981-1990. Both planes were very effective weapons platforms and very fast. I never heard the EF-111 referred to as the "Electric Fox" as noted in your article, but it was referred to as the "Spark Vark" as often as its official name, "Raven".


Greg Becker, e-mail, 06.03.2011 09:54

57th Fw Nellis AFB 76-77. Sent to 474th FW 430th Flying Tigers because of operation Ready Switch. Participated in Operation Jack Frost Jan. 77 at Elmendorf Alaska. After being grounded about 1 year we got the F-111A operational ready. Spent many a night on the speed brake working in the wheel well. Also down the right intake testing the engine inlet anti-ice detector! What a great and unique aircraft.


Dave Ross, e-mail, 17.02.2011 21:47

Worked on F-111s ARS/TFR from '70 - '73 at Nellis and Mountain Home. Went TDY to Takli for 4 months. I did remember some names while reading through this, H. Goodale for example. Anyone know where H. Goodale, D. Galen, O. Braham, Msgt Johnson and Major Rosa are?


James Secey, e-mail, 25.01.2011 23:51

I was on Ship #3 at Edwards Ca in 1967 on the test program,then on the F111As at Nellis AFB in 1968 with Harvest Reaper/ Combat Lancer then on the F111Es at Upper Heyford from 71- 73 then to Cannon AFB NM on the F111Ds in 1974. The F111A I Crewed in Takhli was 66-0021 which was modified to a EF111A is in the Bone yard in Az.JFS


C.S TING, e-mail, 20.01.2011 12:18

what's the location of the f111's 20mm canon


Greg Jones, e-mail, 08.01.2011 03:08

I was a weapons systems specialist, and a standardization load crew member at Cannon AFB from Mar 1987-Sept 1989, and at RAF Lakenheath from Sept 1989- Mar 1992. At Cannon, I was with the 524th TFTS, and at Lakenheath with the 494th FS. We took our F-111F's to Taif, Saudi Arabia where me and my crew loaded 352,000 lbs of live ordinance to be dropped on Iraq and Kuwait. I'm looking for a forum for all the prople that were with me out in the desert from Aud 22 1990 to Mar 28 1991. Also looking for any Lakenheath Desert Storm, or F-111 related reunion(s). I welcome all replys! I miss the 'ol Aardvark!


Rick Mitchell, e-mail, 19.12.2010 05:54

I was a crew chief on the E model at UH 1973-77. This airplane was a pain to work on but a joy to see fly. I loved the vaark and hated to leave it when I rotated back to the states. I worked in the Phase docks and in Yellow A&B flights with the 79th TFS.


Andy Ciecko, e-mail, 03.12.2010 20:49

I was part of the 442TFTS at Nellis from 68-71. Joe Barriterie,Garland G. Davis,Smitty, etc. Had a crazy group of guys.


Dean Kraus, e-mail, 27.11.2010 18:45

Right out of tech school went to 428th Sq TFW at Nellis in 1971. ARS SQ. Rememeber Sqt's Brown & Gooddale? Worked INS/TFR. Then to Takhil ~Then to RAF Upper Heyford 1972-1976 with F111-E. Next to Mt. Home AFB till 1978. To Major Brown & Capt. Stoneybarger who were Killed in Takhli ~ I think of you often. God Bless
Dean Kraus SSGT


Tom Neuman, e-mail, 17.11.2010 21:38

I was stationed at Nellis AFB from March of 1968 to August of 1971. I was a F-111 Crew Chief in the 428th TFS. In the spring of 1969 Six F-111's were returning from a 5-6 hour training flight with Australian Pilots in training flying the aircraft. The first landed with no flaps or slats and burnt out the brakes halfway down the runway. The remaining five did land safely and on fumes. I was the Airman in charge of the brake change. Is there anyone out there that remembers this event that I could talk to about this? Also,
In August of 1969, the 474th TFW sent 50 personnel somewhere, and there is no Air Force records as to where these 50 men went. Is there anyone out there who remembers this assignment and where the men went, and what they did?
Whatever information you can give me on these things would be greatly appreciated.


Leonard Travaille, e-mail, 15.11.2010 21:52

Iworked QC during the first days in charge of submitting all the UR's and there was alot of them. Transfered to Upper Heyford. Worked flt line and then ran job control. The F-111 had alot of problems but was still a great fighter-bomber. Transfered to Travis AFB in 1974 retired in 1977. CMS Retired Prosser Wa.


Robert Ver Hoef, e-mail, 14.11.2010 23:57

I flew the FB-111 for 4 years in the early 70"s out of pEASE afb. hAD A GREAT TIME FLYING THE ARDVARK, ESPECIALLY LOW LEVEL. wAS NOT TO IMPRESSED WTH THE 7 DAY ALERT CYCLES. fLEW WITH SEVERAL GREAT PEOPLE, JOHN ALLEN AND JACK HARRIS


John Rumph, e-mail, 09.11.2010 03:32

Spent the last 9 years of my A.F career until 1977 flying the F-111A/E. NelliS, Cannon, Upper Heyford, Korat. Best deal was CC 79th TFS 73-74. God bless you Ardvark drivers, wso's and support troops. Tigers Roar!!!!!!!


Jim Falls, e-mail, 05.11.2010 18:51

1968-1977 Flew F-111A's at Cannon AFB and Korat RTAFB,
F-111E's at RAF Upper Heyford,Flew F-111D/F/FB/C while in Flight Test at Mcclellan AFB. Flew high speed, low level TFR testing at Edwards. The VARK was the fastest thing in the air during its time. Nothing could come close to it low level. I'd love to have another go at it.


Charlie Geddes, e-mail, 19.10.2010 10:27

I was part of the F11c Prrovisioning Team from June 1069 to September 1971. I was a Sgt Equipo. at the time it would be great to hear from anybody else who was there during that period. As a team, we had a ball.


Kevin "Rim" Allen, e-mail, 16.10.2010 00:06

Mt Home Training in 389th in 1988.
Upper Heyford 79TFS Tigers 88-91. Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Great times flying low level, IMC 1000SCP, over the Lochs to Tain and Rosehearty Ranges.

Supersonic 100SCP egress over Northern Iraq through the AAA after delivering 8 cannisters of CBU.


Kenneth E Miller Jr, e-mail, 13.10.2010 19:31

Looking to see if anyone remembers working with my father Kenneth E Miller at Nellis AFB during the 60's and 70's. I remember him getting an award for his assigned fleet of aircraft the F-111 for achieving 1000 flying hours without a breakdown, other duty assingnment also included, RAF Lakenheath in the 70's as well as George AFB. He was better known as "SATCH". For his retirement in 1980 at George AFB Maj Boyed took him up in a F-105. He retired as MSGT. Thanks for your help.


Mickey Rigney, e-mail, 07.10.2010 20:00

Right out of tech school went to 428th Sq/474th TFW at Nellis in 1969, first F-111A Sq. Worked INS/TFR. Then to RAF Upper Heyford 1970-1974 with F111-E. Next to Cannon AFB 1975-1979 on F-111D. Left USAF for General Dynamics as Tech Rep on F-16 then F-22. Aardvark was great aircraft, sometimes difficult to maintain, but it did things no other aircraft could dream of. Leading edge of technology in it's day. Sad to see last flight in Aussie Land Dec 2010.


David Powley, e-mail, 06.10.2010 18:16

I was stationed at Mountain Home AFB Idaho from 1983-1990 3.5 years supplying munitions to the F-111A and Chaff to the EF-111A. The remaining 3.5 years was spent as an aircraft fuel systems mechanic working on both F-111A and EF-111A. Awesome aircraft when it wasn't leaking fuel all over from the splitter plate and air deflector door brackets! I always enjoyed the fly overs at retreat time, come in smoking fast wings swept and buzz the base.


Dave, e-mail, 06.10.2010 17:28

Was at Nellis AFB, 474th MMS. Worked on the F-111A from 1972 through Operation Ready Switch. Spent 18 months at Takhli, Thailand with the 474th, 6280th and finally the 347th. Loaded bombs while in Thailand. The F-111A that is in the museum at Wright-Patterson is loaded in one of the configurations we loaded in 73-74, 24 x 500lb bombs. I actually loaded that same aircraft in that configuration in 73.

Dave


BobW, 30.09.2010 22:35

I was informed back when by a ranking general in the USAF that the first air-to-air combat kill in Desert Storm was made by, get this, an EF-111A. I typed it right, an EF-111A. The aircrew tactically defeated a MIG opponent forcing him to bury his aircraft in the sand. A tactical defeeat is scored as a combat kill. However, the Air Force being what it is could publicize the first war kill as made by a "non-shooter." So they proclaimed that our first kill was a missile shootdown by an F-15, which truly was the 2nd, or at last that's what I was briefed. Anyone else hear that story?


Thomas E.Richards, e-mail, 28.09.2010 10:35

Worked on F-111Ds at Cannon. Couple years on the flight line and 3 years in job control. Maintaining them was a bit of a nightmare mostly because of a lack of spare parts. One of our civilian tech reps did have a saying about Generally Dynamic that explained a lot of the other maintenance problems we had. He said that they measured with a micrometer, marked with chalk and cut with an ax. I, of course, cannot verify that. I'm just sayin'...


withheld, e-mail, 17.09.2010 20:33

Why is it that when the USA attack the third world with hi-tec weapons like this they are doing it for "freedom" but when the third world fight back they are called terrorists just for defending them selfs?


ROB KEITH, e-mail, 16.09.2010 22:36

FLEW F-111A 1968 & I WAS SQ MAINT OFFICER, FMS SQ CMDR, AT NELLIS AFB, 474 TFW, CHIEF OF MAINT. DEPLOYED WITH 2 SQ F-111S TO 347 TFW TAKHLI THAILAND. ANOTHER 474 ASSIGNMENT , CHIEF OF MAINT. CANNON AFB DIR OF LOGISTICS IN 832 AIR DIVISION ALSO C M 27 TFW. GREAT LOW LEVEL. RMK


Jim Knutti, e-mail, 01.09.2010 14:46

Mountain Home AFB 1976-1979 with a side trip to Nellis AFB to support operation Ready Switch. We brought the A models up from Nellis and sent the Fs to RAF Lakenheath. I hated to see the Fs go, Mountain Home got the bad end of that deal. I was an Automatic Flight Controls and Instrument Specialist, I also saw the introduction and implementation of POMO, Production Orientated Maintenance Organization.


GARY, e-mail, 07.05.2010 18:08

MY FATHER WORKED ON THE F-111 FROM DAY #1 IN FT.WORTH,TEXAS AT THE GENERAL DYNAMICS PLANT.I USED TO RIDE IN THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT,AND I USED TO SEE THOSE WHITE/GRAY BRAND NEW F-111s WHICH WERE PARKED IN FRONT OF THE HANGARS AT THE MAIN GD PLANT.I DON'T CARE WHAT ANYBODY SAYS,THE F-111 WAS A GREAT AIRPLANE,AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN FLOWN BY THE UNITED STATES NAVY.THE U.S NAVY COULD'VE FLOWN THE F-111 ON RECONN MISIONS,BOMBING MISIONS,AND ATTACK MISIONS.


Dean Floyd, e-mail, 22.04.2010 07:09

I was involved in F-111s A,E & D Haint Tech 68 69 Q A/ Q C Cannon FB-111 SAC PAFB NY F-111F RAF UH FCF/ WT & BAL Program Manager 27 TFW 69-72 380BW 73-77 and 48TFW 77 79
Great ACFT
E-8 Retired


George Armstrong, e-mail, 20.04.2010 06:13

1300 hours in the F-111A/E/F. Mountain Home AFB 1980-81. Upper Heyford 1981-85. Lakenheath 1988-91. Two EF-111 flights. CS: Soul Squeak

Before that: 1100 hours in the F-105G. George AFB 1974-80. CS: Brother Bear.

Colonel (Retired) George Armstrong
Currently AFJROTC SASI in Apple Valley, CA


George Armstrong, e-mail, 20.04.2010 06:12

That's Mountain Home AFB 1980-81. I'm not THAT old!


George Armstrong, e-mail, 20.04.2010 06:09

1300 hours in the F-111A/E/F. Mountain Home AFB 1908-81. Upper Heyford 1981-85. Lakenheath 1988-91. Two EF-111 flights. CS: Soul Squeak

Before that: 1100 hours in the F-105G. George AFB 1974-80. CS: Brother Bear.

Colonel (Retired) George Armstrong
Currently AFJROTC SASI in Apple Valley, CA


Frank M. Lopez, e-mail, 05.02.2010 01:44

On my last day in the air force, I got to sit in an F111-C at Richmond RAAF base, NSW Australia. I'd been a member of 22 (City of Sydney) Sqn. for around 12 years. It was an incredible experience.


Gary F Knoles, e-mail, 27.01.2010 01:00

Was station @ Cannon AFB,NM 27th EMS 1984-1990,delivered a lot of AGE to those birds and had the chance to go tdy twice to Nellis AFB for aircraft support during REDFLAG competition.


nomad, e-mail, 06.01.2010 23:32

I had one or two shares of GD stock as a kid & was invited with my Father out to the Ft. Worth assembly plant at Carswell.
Much to my childish delight I was allowed to sit in the cockpit of a completed 111 on the tarmac as I was closely watched by a man in a flight suit. I was admonished not to touch anything but soon became & antsy & then most displeased as the pilot abruptly ended my "toggle tour". I looked at my Dad (probably w tears in my eyes!) & told him to convey to the "rude" Gentlemen that I did not intend to fly the plane anywhere I just wanted to play. The grownups had come to the conclusion that had not been a good idea.

I Imagine there was no chance ordinance involved but given the time frame (1970 + or - 1 year) it could have already had an active ejection capsule & a functioning radar.


Dan Akens, e-mail, 06.01.2010 02:13

I was stationed with the 474 TFW, 428 squardron at Nellis AFB 1969-1970.


John Rumph, e-mail, 27.12.2009 06:40

1800 hundred hours in the A & E models. Flt Commander, Ops Officer & Squadron commander during my 4 year tour at RAF Upper Heyford 1970-74. Fun plane to fly on low level TFR in the Scottish mountains. Tigers Roar !!!!


Jack Gruenwald, e-mail, 30.09.2009 23:41

Does anyone remember my High Schools Sweeties Father I think He flew these COL.Alexander Butterfield.I served in Vietnam as a Marine Rifleman'68,have always loved Jets @ the USAF and their Daughters(lol)GodSpeed Semper~Fidelis


Steve, e-mail, 17.09.2009 18:07

I've long thought that the root of much of the grief that plagued the F-111 was due to the Air Force's seeming inability to call things by their proper names. The F-111's mission was that of a medium bomber, not a "fighter" in any sense of the word.


paul scott, e-mail, 18.08.2009 19:28

Those of you who flew this remarkable aircraft are privileged indeed. What an aeroplane! Being from the UK, it is a real toss-up as to whether I'd liked to see the BAC TSR2 OR the F-111 in RAF service (Both preferably). Sadly, now it has been retired (Just like the excellent F-14 Tomcat) I never got to see it fly. With deep regret, even in 1999, I didn't see any parked on the runway at RAF/USAF base Upper Heyford, they'd been returned to the US by 1996 and retired from USAF service by 1998. I hope to see one static somehwere - must pop along to Duxford!


Marita Romson-Dethman, e-mail, 03.08.2009 01:01

I just found this interesting summary as I was sitting at the computer using Google... My late husband was Col. Ivan H. Dethman, who in March 1968 took the 6 F-111's over to Takhli as mentioned above. Have you all seen the www.f-111.net website at all - it is quite a nice one.
Regards/Marita


Mark Cook, e-mail, 17.08.2008 04:21

As Commander of the 422nd Squadron at Nellis AFB, I had the privilege of participating in a high altitude, high-priority test out of Eglin AFB. We were outfitted with the Gemini pressure suit at Edwards AFB so we could operate above 50,000 feet. During one of the test missions, I made it from New Orleans to Tampa Bay in about 15 minutes (over the gulf of course).


Lynn E. Gulick, e-mail, 29.07.2008 02:06

While stationed at SAC Hq, I was immently involved in the FB-111G, a stretch variant of the FB-111A, it was designed to replace the B-1A, cancelled by Pres Carter. Carter cancelled the B-1A program in favor of the stealth bomber, the B-2. Of course not many knew about the new bomber. Later, when Pres Reagan restarted the B-1 (as the B-1B), I got involved with it as a Rockwell employee...for 17 years.


Jimmy, e-mail, 02.01.2008 11:16

This page has line drawings of the Boeing TFX and a photo of a model:
http://steeljawscribe.com/2007/11/30/flightdeck-friday-tfx-%E2%80%93-a-time-for-turkeys-pt-ii/


Mike Fortunato, e-mail, 14.11.2007 22:36

What did th Boeing design look like?




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