Name: Robert Streeter
Location: Conneaut Ohio
Year: 1975-76
Email: rsj@nwpa.com
Date: Monday, January 16, 2006
Time: 01:58:39 PM

Comments

Testing, more to follow

Name: "Jungle Jim" Schwilling
Location: Blairsden, California
Year: TDY 1974, PCS 1975-76
Email: schwllng@psln.com
Date: Friday, January 20, 2006
Time: 12:24:38 PM

Comments

Great start Doc! Glad you're highlighting the mid-70s on J.I.! That's when everyone was counting the days to get back to the "world". If we knew then what we know now, we would have savored those days more! Thanks for keeping a good history for us! Hope this site keeps growing and growing! Jim Schwilling P.O. Box 605 Blairsden, Ca 96103 (H)530.836.1517 (Cell) 530.249.3897

Name: Harry Lauder (Mike)
Location: Green Bay Wisconsin
Year: 1974-1975 Coast Guard Sand Island
Email: mikelauder1@aol.com
Date: Saturday, January 21, 2006
Time: 06:36:49 AM

Comments

Hello all I was very happy to see this web site Jungle Jim Swilling made contact with me finally. He was the 1 that told me about it, This sure brings back some great memories from years gone bye, I hope to have contact with some of my old friends in the future.

Name: Keith Eichenlaub
Location: Newport News, Va
Year: 76-77
Email: alanike@aol.com
Date: Saturday, January 21, 2006
Time: 10:25:24 PM

Comments

Thanks for finding some of us Doc.Sure do rememeber you. Joe Scott was your room mate, dropped you a email to let you know his full name and a bit more. We served together a few years after JI. He was the Rabbit man,(vet tech) when we used rabbits to make sure there wasnt any leakers. (yes rabbits died) Hey what was the name of the Massive mascot rabbit down by the Red Hat area? Anyways I was first assigned to run the swing brush in Reno,mmm doesnt sound fun or safe, MPs where short handed and wanted OJTers. Hand in the air I started as a 95B, working the front gate, badge exchange, walking the interior, punching the time check station clocks. Got into diving, playing guitar,working out, loved the chit chut shark fishing, and of course as all of us counting the days. Some fared better then others but over all we did well. No women in those days allowed on the Rock. I rememeber the first briefing about the dangers, carry your Protective mask always, and there wouldnt be women on the island because of the danger of them becoming sterile, as we all wondered Im sure why we were there then since our stuff is outside our bodies and could they tell us....., off to the next question they quickly went. Work was hard, masks filled with sweat on those hot days, poured out and dried before continuing on. Walking the rows looking for leakers in the orange area. Ahhh the memories, lol. I used to work the switch board also with a Af Buddy just to get a free extra morale call out and get to see the movie since shift work screw ya outta watching the newest flick on the rock. Rememeber when Jaws came out? Anyways, thanks for the work here Doc, will help ya out with the pics I do have, most of the boring hey take a pic of me stuff but a few nice ones, around the Red Hat gate shack before the turnstyle went in. Looking forward to see who all wonders this way, from a time now long ago.

Name: Ronald Bradley MKCM USCG ret
Location: Hickory Flat Mississippi
Year: 1966-67
Email: gordena@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, January 23, 2006
Time: 08:34:06 PM

Comments

If only there were females I would still there. It had to be the best year of my life bar none!!

Name: Charles N. Hill
Location: Milford Ohio (Cincinnati Area)
Year: Mid-December '62 - Mid-November '63
Email: Chakian1@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Time: 12:40:00 AM

Comments

Great website! Really! I arrived at JI as a Coast Guard E-4 (ET3) late one night in December of 1962 and departed immediately for Sand Island aboard one of the Coast Guard's 2 35ft WWII LCVP's. (I was later qualified as a boat coxswain, but made very few trips to Johnston). During my near-year, there were many changes. The Baker-Nunn camera and its enclosure were set up during that period on the small steel-reinforced peninsula to the south of the western end of Sand Island. I was glad to see it, as one of my shipmates nearly came to grief on that peninsula, prior to the arrival of the Camera. Later in that same year, the reef---the beautiful reef---was ravaged by the dredges that were sent out to build up the two new islands. Incidentally, the two islands were not built solely for chemical warfare agents: Coast Guard contact (part of my work) later that year with Deseret Test Center near Salt Lake City, as well as specific work being done by the ornithologists (such as Robert Sundell) sent out from the Smithsonian Institution, clearly indicated that the islands were to be used for biological warfare agents, as well as for chemical warfare agents. The job of the ornithologists was to determine whether a bio-spill could be carried throughout the Pacific by hundreds of thousands of infected sea birds from the island---which may, in fact, have actually occurred in the 1970's. I have a nice B&W aerial photo of Sand island, taken during one of the 1962 bomb-test evacuations. if you'd like to have it, let me know, as I've already scanned it and sent it to Fred's Place. I'll be glad to provide it. As I recall, the "atoll" on which Johnston and the other islands sat was known as "novelty reef." Can anyone confirm---or deny---that? I'll be backl---you can bet on that. It's a great site. ---Charlie Hill;

Name: John Sheehan CMSGT(r) USAF
Location: Colorado Springs CO
Year: 1969-1970
Email: jshee62@adelphia.net
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Time: 12:16:30 PM

Comments

I was stationed at the Baker Nunn site DET2 18 Surveillance Sqdn 1969 to 70. Also made a couple of stops 71 to 74 as the OPS inspector on the IG team which inspected both the Baker Nunn and Det 1 10ADS the Thor missile unit.My association with JI goes back to 1963 when the Thor program was started but never set foot on the Island until 1969. Always had a warm spot for it and remember many good times and people.Especiaaly the steak every Sat and prime rib every Wed. My wife still nags me about my island vacation while she was at home with 4 kids.Although your site covers later years it was great to revisit the atoll after all these years. Keep up the good work.

Name: Colin Saxton
Location: Scottville, MI
Year: 1973
Email: csaxton@gowmbg.com
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Time: 01:06:44 PM

Comments

Great Job on the web site, Doc! Thanks a lot for the great memories. Keith, the rabbit that the Army had for a mascot was First Lt. Humper Thumper. I was with the 267th Chemical Company "Red Hats", as an NCO in charge of the "biological monitors" -- in other words, rabbits. They were used to check for leaks in any of the chemical munitions bunkers, and First Lt. Humper Thumper was their honorary commanding officer. I have the picture of the outdoor theatre as wallpaper on my computer desktop, and I have great memories of Johnston whenever I see it. Any other Army-types out there from 1973??

Name: Jungle Jim Schwilling
Location: Blairsden, Ca
Year: 1975-76
Email: schwllng@psln.com
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Time: 03:21:16 PM

Comments

That's what we used say in those days, "Johnston Island where only Thumper humps!" Unless of course you happened to be there when that one USO show came thru that brought a couple "ladies of the night" with them as "go-go girls" from Hono! Anyone remember that? There was a little back-lash over that one! I have some photos of the USO shows that came thru in 1975 if anyone is interested!

Name: Bill Gallagher
Location: Sebastian, FL
Year: 1966-1967
Email: wabassobill@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Time: 08:16:24 PM

Comments

During my tour I was station with the 1957 Det 1 AFCS. Worked in the JOC building and also worked in a smaller building doing work load control. Spent alot of time fishing, sailing and drinking. Wednesday nite was prime rib and Saturday nite was steak nite. Gain a lot of weight while there. Lived in a three story building with pool table and card tables on each floor. The Island (Rock) was use to track satelites and launching of small rockets. Launch one Thor while I was there. Island was also used as a target by Vandeburg. There were no women on island as it was considered Isolated and remote duty. One USO show with students from Wayne State University, Mich., put on a show at the outdoor theater. Also had a small sail boat dock there with mechanical problems and it caused alot of ruckus. When I first arrive they had all cameras confiscated. We were issued Radec detectors and sunglasses the Radecs were check monthly. Shark fishing down at the garbage ramp was great. Caught lots of sharks then cut out the jaw and cleaned the flesh from the jaw then set coat hanger wire to hold jaw until it was dry. Main transportation was bicycle or jeep. Only rain at night while we were watching a movie. Deep sea fishing was done on a 28ft power cat. Sailing was done on small one man sailboats and scuba from the pontoon barges the Navy maintained. Holmes and Narver was the island contractor. Coast Guard lived on Sand Island, Navy kept the LCU and two PT boats and also were medics. No uniforms. Issued kakky bermuda shorts and blue keds for shoes. Most of the time wore shorts and t-shirts. Weekend passes to Hawaii were common so you could catch a flight on a C124 (Five hours) or Northwest Prop. Had a great time there and would do it all over again. To bad the goverment had to use it as a hazardous waste dump.

Name: Rodolfo Arriaga
Location: McAllen, Texas
Year: 1974-75
Email: olbiker1951@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Time: 10:08:16 PM

Comments

I was the administrative clerk on Johnston Atoll from September 1974 to Aug 1975 for Det 2 1957 Com Gp. Capt Redding was My OIC and MSgt Gordon was my NCOIC. I became quite ill while on the island after going diving off of the west end of the island by diving off a drainage pipe that came out of the high fenced area that I now realize was the Agent Orange storage location. The water along the shore was a nasty greasy brown sludge with dead fish and trash. As you walked out toward the end of the drain pipe the water cleared up. I another airman went snorkleing off of that drain pipe. I became so ill i went from 181 lbs to less than 135bs in a matter of a couple of weeks. I developed horrible rashes in my scalp, arm pits, and groin. The skin of my hands and feet peeled off. When I got back to the states my wife had a miscarriage and the fetus was extreamly deformed. I have never fathered another child. I have had my gall bladder removed because it was crystalized and suffer form hypertension and type II diabetes and the rashes have never cleared up. I have filed for compensation for agent orange and have been denied because as the VA stated I am not an in country Vet. I have also lost over 70% of the hearing in my right ear and 51^ in my left which started in the island when I came down with a seaver ear infection while on the Island. PTSD from the stress of the illnesses and the hostile environment of Johnston Atoll have at times completely incapacitated me. Does anyone remember the Black Army soldiers that were raping others on the island... I do.

Name: Michael Gibbons
Location: Knoxville, Tn
Year: Feb. 1971-Feb. 1972
Email: msggtx@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Time: 01:13:22 PM

Comments

Great site Doc. I served with the U.S.A.F. Comm. Grp. from Feb.1971 to Feb.1972. I worked as hired help to finish the bunkers before the delivery of the gas. The contractor was behind on the bunkers and hired a number of we young men to help finish the bunkers. I watched the off-loading of all the weapons for we lived in the top 2 floors of the big barrecks untill we were moved down the street to the single rooms before I left. I am now 56 years old and have health problems that I feel are caused due to exposure to the leaks from those munations stored there. I feel that our country has let all of us down that have become ill from the exposure while there. We served our country and now our country denies our even being there. I wish every one who served there good luck and hope that you have much better health than what I endure. Mike Gibbons

Name: John Buzzerio
Location: Bay Shore, NY
Year: 4/75 to 5/76
Email: johnbuzzed@optonline.net or jbuzzerio@biodex.com
Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Time: 01:14:20 PM

Comments

Ah, Doc Streeter- the AFRTS DJ. The website looks real nice. Remember Kim Penfold, "The Roadrunner"? Well, I hung out w/him as he did his shows on Sunday mornings for a while, finding albums and cuing them up while he did his thing. I was one of the "Rabbit Men"; in fact, I turned over "command" of the Rabbit Room to Joe Scott, who was my replacment. While I was there, we never lost a rabbit, but we did have a few scares. You don't know what it's like to be at the carpentry shop during duty hours and hearing that siren/alarm go off, then racing back to the Red Hat area in the Dodge pickup w/o gas masks... and we held our breath as we ran into the building (as if that would help). Boy, were we lucky it was a false alarm. The Shit Chute, steaks on Saturday, prime rib on Wednesday, Sunday brunch, really good burgers for lunch...USO shows. I had the good fortune to volunteer as an escort for one of the shows and I fell madly in love (lust) with one of the girls- I still fantasize about her. Thor missle launches- there were two while I was there and both events were cause for big-time partying (I think the national sport on JI at the time was beer-drinking). I do have pictures of both launches, as well as some miscellaneous shots from around the island. Remember Captain Spinaio, Muttsy Dog, Humper Thumper and Fat Bob? How about the outdoor theater and the "Last Resort", or "Kegler's Corner"? Time to get back to work. I'll check the site often, and if I ever get a scanner, I'll try to remember to e-mail the pix that I do have. Good luck with the site.

Name: Kevin O'Connor
Location: Pittsburgh Pa.
Year: 1985-86
Email: Need4zpeed@netzero.com
Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Time: 09:40:59 PM

Comments

Man! Thanks for the site. I don't have many pix from The Rock...darn OPSEC! But now I can show folks where I spent my time. I sometimes miss the beautiful water and weather...It's snowing here in Pittsburgh as I write this. Anyone out there that was on The Rock during 1985-86 feel free to drop me a line. Especially 2nd Platoon Military Police Company. I'll meet ya down at the Shark Shute!

Name: Van Woody Jr.
Location: Pembroke, NH
Year: 1971
Email: vwoody401.netzero.net
Date: Thursday, January 26, 2006
Time: 09:13:19 AM

Comments

Thanks Doc for the site. I served with the 490the Transportation Unit out Ft. Eustis VA as E-5 Sergeant in 1971, we trained constantly for the JI from early AM to late afternoon from Feb 71 and then riot control during the evening prior to our employment with "Mission Red Hat Phase ONE." My assignment was Security from 1800 HOURS until 0800 HOURS the following morning, mostly boring assignement. You can not find this Unit anywhere, wonder why, to many possible claims? The Defense Department never informed us of two nuclear test missile lauches in 1962 were aborted over the runway of the Island causing radioactivity for the past 40 years and was not unitl Doc's sight and "Johsnton Atoll Benefits for Surviors," neil Hamilton of JABS National coordinator I found that I had similar illness as many soldiers have after I served there in 1971. The Surgeon at Mass Gen Hospital found a module on my thyroid in 1982 at the age of 32 and the thyroid was totally removed in 1983, I have constant kidney and liver problems unexplained until I found those sights, I was non-smoker and drinker all my life. I think my exposure in Vietnam in 1970 to Agent Orange and my exposure to radiation and asbestos on the Island my have contributed to some of the problems I have encountered? Again, Thanks Doc and I wish everyone well, the pictures bring back visions of the past. We were not allowed cameras, trips to Honolulu or WOMAN. WOW! HA! Keep up the great work Doc. Van Woody Pembroke, NH

Name: Kevin Niewoehner
Location: seattle
Year: 1986 - 1987
Email:
Date: Friday, January 27, 2006
Time: 11:15:56 PM

Comments

M.P. CO. - I was in escort platoon - key man

Name: Larry M. Kellerman
Location: Baxter, Minnesota
Year: December 1968-December 1969
Email: lkellerm@clcmn.edu
Date: Monday, January 30, 2006
Time: 09:09:47 AM

Comments

Served with the Joint Task force as a radio announcer and in television production. We had enough staff to run radio 24 hours a day; and operated television from 6 p.m. to Midnight with a live news broadcast at 6 p.m. Our television programing consisted of 16mm productions of old state-side comedies and westerns. In the eveings, I supervised a small library which was located on the second floor above the slotcar track and weight room across the street from the theatre. We had a current book exchange with Hickham Airforce Base in Honolulu. Everyone seemed to have temporary ownership of a bicycle while on base. Uniform shorts, sneekers, knee socks and baseball caps made for comfortable conditions. Many evening hours were spent between the NCO club, overlooking the runway; and the Riggers which had a nice beach front setting. Country singer Jody Miller performed for the USO. The PX offered great prices on the latest technology such as reflect lens cameras, surround stereo, and reel to reel tape recorders. When mine sweeping ships came to port, we would trade moves for a couple of days to show over our television system.

Name: Colin Saxton
Location: Scottville, MI
Year: 1973
Email: csaxton@gowmbg.com
Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Time: 04:07:04 PM

Comments

"Mark in the Pacific" said that the only building left standing is the JOC -- that it was gutted and the doors welded shut. Does anybody know: Why was it the only building left standing? Why was it gutted? Why were the doors welded shut? It seems that, when they destroyed all the buildings, etc. on the island, why did they choose to leave one? I'm sure there is an answer out there somewhere, but I've just not heard it yet. Seems like they could of just locked the doors -- who's going to try to break in anyway??

Name: Efren "Danny" Delgado
Location: Puerto Rico
Year: 1976-77
Email: yo_hermano@msn.com
Date: Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Time: 09:46:30 AM

Comments

Isolation from the world and our families while being exposed to the bi-products of maintaining peace...and yet there was the great human interaction of dedicated and professional men having a good time despite the odds. My honor and pleasure to remember JI and all of your experiences.I bow to all of you. I was with the AF as the one of two telephone dudes maintaining the phone system then.I also bartended at the club. To get off for a while I went to Enewetok for the beginning of the big cleanup.I did get homesick for JI while there...Wow! Anyone there remember the scare when a Russian Naval Vessel broke down near JI? The big bust of civilians exporting and smuggling fish to Hickham using the Mail Bird? Or the disguised pimping that when on when the USO gave a show with available ladies? And on and on...I am now dealing with Prostate Cancer and other linked issues.I was safer at Nam!..Cheesh. God Bless all of you and please email me if I can be of any help even if it is just to remember the good times.

Name: Phil Duby
Location: Saginaw, Michigan
Year: June 95- June 96
Email: duby2727@hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Time: 09:57:02 AM

Comments

Name: Shawn Noble
Location: FT Stewart,GA
Year: 1999-2000
Email: nole0426
Date: Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Time: 06:26:46 PM

Comments

Name: Staff Sergeant Shawn Noble
Location: FT Stewart,GA
Year: 1999-2000
Email: noble0426@gmail.com
Date: Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Time: 06:29:23 PM

Comments

Hey Had a very short stay on JI and have to say it was the best assignment ever!! I have an island memories disc of pictures that was given to me when I left and like to share someone please email me an address that I can send a copy to and I would be more than happy to send off a copy!!

Name: Karin Demko
Location: Denver, CO
Year: 8/17/1988 to 9/23/2003
Email: jispecialk@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, February 10, 2006
Time: 09:03:44 AM

Comments

This is one of the better sights that I have recently visited. Thanks to you for putting it together. I've only been home for a little over two years, but Johnston Island is STILL very much a part of me. After spending 15 years there...it was sad to leave....but, it was time to leave and suffice it to say, I left a part of me there too! I have such fond memories of the island. But, most important, the people made the place. They were my "Ohana" for all those years. One thing's for sure--no matter how many years go by, should you run into someone that you knew years ago on "the Rock"...you will have an instant bond...a commradere that will never fade. I was there when they finished building JACADS. I was there when they started up and when they shutdown. AND...I'd STILL be there if it wasn't time for all of us to go. I will treasure my life there and hold it dear to my heart....AND, when I'm missing the island...all I have to do is view this website and be transported back in time OR just pop one of my 100+ movies that I filmed while I was living there...... Thanks again for allowing me another glimpse of paradise. Best regards, Karin

Name: LeAnne (Spc Norcross) Hosmer
Location: Ohio
Year: 1992-1993
Email: hosmers_k9@adelphia.net
Date: Friday, February 10, 2006
Time: 12:11:40 PM

Comments

Hi guys! I was stationed on The Rock later than a lot of you, but my late uncle, George Klein was stationed there many many years ago. I'm not sure when or what he did but he used to tell me stories of how there weren't any women out there and I guess would ship out some lady companions ;) now and then. lol. I really miss it out there. I have many fond memories. I only spent a year there, but I was seriously concidering extending my tour there if it wasn't for my pending K-9 School in TX. What I really miss the most (other than improving my suntan) was how close everyone was, military and civilian. It was one big huge family and it was so sad the day I had to leave. Karin... do you have any pictures or anything you can share from 1992-93? I only have a few, it would be nice to go back down memory lane!

Name: Richard K. Berger
Location: New Jersey
Year: Jan-Dec 1973
Email: richard.k.berger@us.army.mil
Date: Friday, February 17, 2006
Time: 03:34:53 PM

Comments

Doc, You have done a heck of a job putting this site together. It brings back "fond" memories and creates some new horrible nightmares. I was assigned to the USAF Communications Squadron in the Teletype/Crypto shop, was in the bar/lounge when it caught fire from a grease fire on the griddle, on full alert for three days during the Yom Kippur/Ramadan War, fractured a vertebrae in a diving board accident at the Olympic pool, became the base photographer and photographed and developed the USAF released photos of Comet Kohoutek, had a radio show on AFRTS and was a television cameraman for the evening news. In my spare time we bet on the what bird would land first, Shopped the PX with the sign above the door "What you want we ain't got, What we got you can't afford", lost all my hold baggage in the Pacific on rotating out to include pay records so I did not get paid until nine months after returning stateside. What a country. Keep up the great work. How about some souvenirs or a gift shop link?
 

Name: Eric Dunham
Location: Dothan Alabama
Year: 92-93
Email: ced157a@comcast.net
Date: Monday, February 20, 2006
Time: 03:53:24 AM

Comments

Best time of my life JACADS was just firing up. I was a 55b by trade but was detailed to stock control. I automated the system to link with Hawaii. CWO French was the warrant in charge. Col. Dosberg was Army CO. Seen a pic of Fatu here brought back many memories. Was a bartender part time at Waikiki Club right after remodel.

Name: Janet Rector
Location: Olathe, KS 66061
Year: 4/13/94 to 10/22/03
Email: janrec_1409@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, February 20, 2006
Time: 12:45:51 PM

Comments

What a fantastic collection of information and photos about JI. Thanks to all who put so much effort in collecting and displaying this information. Just wanted to let you know I appreciate all your hard work. Later, Jan

Name: ron rohn
Location: boscobel, wisc
Year: 1969-1979
Email: rrohn@cenutrytel.net
Date: Monday, February 20, 2006
Time: 04:26:17 PM

Comments

I sorry to hear that the rock closed down. I really enjoyed some of my time when I was station on the island. I worked at the JOC in com/crypto unit for the Air Force. I still havent got over the great food and good people I got to know at the island. oh well another perfact day and senset.

Name: CDR Norman LaChapelle,USN (Ret)
Location: Memphis,Tennessee
Year: 1964-1965
Email: lachapellen@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Time: 01:58:12 PM

Comments

The timeline omitted that biological and chemical tests were conducted by the Deseret Test Center,US Army, Ft Douglas,Salt Lake City,Utah off Johnston involving US Navy Ships ,Light Tugs and USAF F-4 Phantom Jet Aircraft.

Name: S. Leo Richardson
Location: Parker, Colorado
Year: 1946-47
Email: sleor28@msn.com
Date: Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Time: 05:18:42 PM

Comments

I love the song dedicated to all of those who served there. I was in Naval Air and enjoyed my duty there beaching PBMs, PBYs and driving the follow-me jeep for the incoming airplanes.

Name: Stuart Paulson
Location: Springfield, Missouri
Year: Missed it
Email: stuartpaul@mchsi.com
Date: Saturday, March 04, 2006
Time: 05:35:28 AM

Comments

Great site, you've done a real service pulling the available resources together, and adding the additional material of your own. I guess I feel I missed out on something significant here. I never made it to the island, and only learned of it on the internet, after they had begun the de-commissioning in 2003. To me, it is just a fascinating piece of American engineering and Military history. Thanks again for putting this together. Stuart Paulson

Name: Dosie R. Maassen
Location: Potterville Michigan
Year: Mar 88- Mar 89
Email: dcamaassen@hotmail.com
Date: Sunday, March 05, 2006
Time: 01:18:52 PM

Comments

How many of you think this was one of the best times of your life. After work, things were pretty much laid back. Didn't have to worry about much of anything except which little club to go to or if there was a boat for use at the boathouse. Twenty five cents a pound for fuel, and you could spend all day fishing, snorkeling of diving. Lots of red coral, and LOTS of good friends. Ten years in the Army and JI was the best. I couldn't wait to leave, and then realized I couldn't wait to get back. Thanks for the great website. Dosie R. Maassen P.S. How many of ya'll remember the raffel we had on Dec 11, 1988. Sold tickets for $100.00 a piece and gave away over $48,000.00 in prizes. 1st prize, $15,000.00. Guy in the laundry won it. Take care|

Name: Cliff Pryor
Location: Oahu, Hawaii
Year: March 1996 - December 2002
Email: Islecliff1@aol.com
Date: Saturday, March 11, 2006
Time: 04:05:02 PM

Comments

I was the guy that took care of the swimming pool and taught scuba diving for almost 7 years. To tell you the truth, had they not shut down the island, I would still be there. I still consider JI to be one of my homes.

Name: Clara Moraga
Location: Arkansas
Year: 2000-2002
Email: moragac@pbcdf.com
Date: Sunday, March 12, 2006
Time: 03:59:42 PM

Comments

Great website (thanks to JI friend Sandra for bringing it to my attn!)...what memories these photos bring back! I was the PMCD "Government Shift Rep" on duty in the CON the eve of 29Nov00 when we destroyed the last VX Land Mine. Those pictures of the CON (and throughout JACADS in particular) on this site sure brought back a lot of memories. Mahalo!

Name: Rich Tower
Location: Littleton, CO
Year: 1968
Email: richjtower@aol.com
Date: Monday, March 13, 2006
Time: 11:26:31 AM

Comments

Doc, You have provided a great service in developing this site. Reading over the comments of other inhabitants of JI over the years, I am amazed at the fond memories most people have. I certainly remember my time on the island in a positive light, but if I remember correctly, many of my contemporaries were not thrilled to be on the island. (Maybe it's only the people with positive memories that make comments). We even worked a half day on Saturdays to keep people occupied. I don't remember a single moment of boredom on the island; I always found plenty to do. If I can dig up any pix from '68 I'll sent them to you. Rich Tower

Name: Chuck Langlois
Location: Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Year: TDY, 1969-1970
Email: graverett@verizon.net
Date: Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Time: 10:20:12 AM

Comments

Did a couple of TDY tours of J.I. in the late 60's. Installed some TTY equipment and a computer. Which, by the way, was as in the JACADS building and took up almost an entire floor. Was with Det 5, PACGEEIA out of Hickam. I have fond memories of the place but why wouldn't I? Only there a few weeks at a time. Some of them include: Happy Hour at the club. Orange Blossom Specials for a buck. I believe this drink contained almost a shot of most booze the bar stocked! Mixed drink specials for 10 cents. Man, could you get hammered on a few dollars! I caught one USO show while there. A good band and a couple of girl singers. Guys would be at the club at 8:00 AM to get a good seat for the 8:00 PM show! Of course the food was the best! Steak on Saturday, with strawberry shortcake for dessert. This included a huge bowl of strawberries at each table. And Prime Rib on Wednesdays. The outdoor theater which had some good flicks. Even bad ones, but who cared! The "shit chute" where we would fish for shark late at night. Some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen, anywhere. The peace and quiet. Only the sound of the ocean and an occasional vehicle. But the best was July of '69. President Nixon was there to be helicoptored out to the Hornet for the Apollo 11 splashdown. The next day he rode on a jeep down the main street of J.I., waving at the guys with cameras and frowning at the ones without -expecting a salute. What a historical moment in time. Our job was done a few days later and we went back to Hickam. They unloaded the Apollo 11 crew at the end of Hickam and still in the isolation capsule rode them down the main street of the base. I was there to offer a salute to them which they returned. What a day. Yeah, alot of memories of a few visits to a little island. Great place.

Name: Dennis D. Deans
Location: New York
Year: 1965-1966 USAF
Email: Dizzy109@Hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Time: 10:23:41 AM

Comments

Strange to see the rock taken apart.. While I was there I couldn't wait to leave (FIGMO Calander). Now that I see these photo's I feel sad. MY rock is gone forever.. I guess you never know what you have until it's gone! If there is anyone who was with Det 1 JI 65-66 I'd love to share some memories...

Name: Michael Collins
Location: Greenwood, SC
Year: 1994
Email: bbq_grill_guy@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, March 16, 2006
Time: 09:34:45 AM

Comments

Worked on JA at the Health Clinic as a EMT-Paramedic for RSN. Would love to hear from anyone who was on JA. This is the best JA site I've came across, great job !

Name: G. Robert (Bob) Hall
Location: Rockville IN
Year: 1989-2002
Email: bobh1118@msn.com
Date: Thursday, March 16, 2006
Time: 02:17:55 PM

Comments

I was responsible for the Engineering Safeguard Systems afforded by the negative cascade ventilation system and its associated filtration system @ JACADS.

Name: Dan Kenyon
Location: Arkansas
Year: 6/89-11/99
Email: losdudes2005@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, March 16, 2006
Time: 09:04:54 PM

Comments

I love the old pic's of J.I. I spent 10 years and 5 months of my life there. I still work in demil in Arkansas. I have no health affects other than high blood pressure that developed there. I enjoyed the after work get togethers and the cookouts and will remember all the good people, some of which I still work with, forever.
 

Name: Roger Angelo Lucheta
Location: Sarver, PA
Year: 1995-2003
Email: rlucheta@alum.mit.edu
Date: Saturday, March 18, 2006
Time: 10:06:30 AM

Comments

God, what great memories this brings back!! Those were, far and away, the best years of my life. Thank you very, very much for making this site. Roger Lucheta

Name: Roseanne Sherman
Location: Shchuch'ye Russia
Year: 1994-2003
Email: roseannesh@att.net
Date: Saturday, March 18, 2006
Time: 08:51:29 PM

Comments

Went for 2 years and stayed for 9. What an unusual place!

Name: William (wildbill) wright
Location: Grand bay AL
Year: 1984-95
Email: wildbill71@att.net
Date: Monday, March 20, 2006
Time: 01:58:46 PM

Comments

best 11 years of my life was at JI from 3oo people in 84 to 3000 in 95 miss my old freinds hope they are AOk

Name: White Michael
Location: Fort Benning, Ga
Year: 22 Mar 86 - 16 Mar 87
Email: michael.c.white1@us.army.mil
Date: Friday, March 24, 2006
Time: 10:18:21 AM

Comments

I have retired from the Army, still work for the army. I was there when HQ's personnel live down on the north end of the island. I was a 55R and worked in Ops as stock control/rto. MSG Leonard was the Ops NCOIC and CW4 Beetle was the OPS OIC. I was once a "newbie" and a pride owner of a 20 yr old "Red Hat Pin". Their was no women on the island at that time (military women). Bingo, steak nite and hot dogs and burger on sundays with softball. Their was an old lady on the island that was so sweet Wendy, she worked at the swimming pool. I was glad to find this site, thanks. Michael C White

Name: Bob McArthur
Location: Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Year: 1988-1990
Email: bogeybob24@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, March 24, 2006
Time: 02:11:28 PM

Comments

After being on a 12 week rotation, and 2 weeks off, it's the place you can't wait to leave but miss when you did.

Name: Butch Bowley
Location: Portsmouth NH
Year: 1970-71
Email: ButchBowley@Comcast.Net
Date: Saturday, March 25, 2006
Time: 08:42:02 AM

Comments

2194 Comm Sq (formly 1957 Comm Gp Det 2) Scuba Diving off the pontoon boat The shit chute. Steak night! I was a waitress(er) (no women on the island) at NCO club. Could make $15 a nite pushing 25 cent drinks. Nothing but Bonanza on TV. Radio piped from Honolulu. Got to call home once a week. Golf course mostly coral.
 

Name: Melanie I Felix
Location: Illinois
Year: 1996-2004
Email: melasian@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, March 26, 2006
Time: 03:14:09 PM

Comments

Greetings to all. I just found out about this website and am amazed by it. I was told I may be able to locate someone through this site. I am trying to locate Corey Coker. He was on JI some time between 1996-1998 or 1999 and he was with the Army. I don't remember which unit he served in. Does anyone know him and how to get a hold of him?
 

Name: Duane Kruse
Location: Adana, Turkey
Year: 1996-1998
Email: duane.kruse@incirlik.af.mil
Date: Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Time: 02:53:28 AM

Comments

I worked for SWRI in the laboratory in JACADS. It was a great time and I really enjoyed the friends I made. I really enjoyed the cookouts we had at the Island Club in the JI National Forest. Its a good thing you are documenting everything that happened on JI. I learned a lot and downloaded more pictures. You can also reach me at my email address: duanek8311@aol.com.

Name: Brian Panther
Location: Adana, Turkey
Year: 2001 - 2003
Email: brian.panther@incirlik.af.mil
Date: Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Time: 03:26:29 AM

Comments

I enjoyed living on that little island, and made many life-long friends. I still miss the blue water and the ocean

Name: Howard Carmack
Location: Anniston Alabama
Year: Military 1983 and 84/ Contractor 1988 until 1996
Email: kemchi55@bellsouth.net
Date: Saturday, April 01, 2006
Time: 04:49:35 AM

Comments

Enjoying this presentation very much. Would like to know if someone has the drawing of the 267th Chemical Company "T" shirt with the rabbit,beer, and bomb?

Name: greg zieber
Location: oregon
Year: 1994 to 2000
Email: glzebra@yahoo.com
Date: Sunday, April 02, 2006
Time: 10:19:35 PM

Comments

Miss the place, the people, the fishing, the water, had a lot of fun. If I lined up all the beer cans I saw drank on JI I think they would go all the way around the planet at the equator. I sure miss that beautiful blue warm tropical water.....steak night at the Wakiki, the Tiki and the indoor theater when the bands would come, the golf shack, Uncle Joes, M&M, Sunday brunch at the dining hall, Holiday meals...Oh yeah, those hurricane evacuations to Hono were something else..walk in a bar in Waikiki or Keamoku St and know half the patrons!

Name: Bill Cross
Location: Detroit, MI
Year: 1999
Email: toothyclam@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, April 03, 2006
Time: 10:30:34 AM

Comments:

I lasted nine months out there. Now, as I sit here back in Michigan and reflect on those nine months... I can say with a very high degree of confidence that I was there about nine months too long.

Name: W T Haley
Location: Bellevue, NE USA
Year: TDY'S with 25 ADS 1968-1972
Email: jthaley1@msn.com
Date: Thursday, April 06, 2006
Time: 01:38:28 PM

Comments:

I went tdy to JI from Vandenburg AFB CA with 25ADS missile launch crew "A" from 1968 to 1972. We manned missile sites for 3 months at a time then back then 6 months in California. Looking at pix JI had really changed since I was there. There was no palm trees at the time we had 2 trees. No women on island. My Combat crew launched the last missile that was launched. The pix are really interesting.
All Combat crews retired and scattered. I have some interesting pix of some sharks that I could send .

Name: HARRY E LAQUINTANO
Location: PHILADELPHIA, PA
Year: SEPT 75 TO JULY 76
Email: harry.laquintano@navy.mil
Date: Monday, April 10, 2006
Time: 01:05:46 PM

Comments:

As I looked thru the website I saw that alot new things were added after I left. I was the non-commissioned officer in charge of the boat house which you now call the marina.

The things I remember the most was the Weather and the Food, both were fantastic and after I learned how to scuba dive. I really started to like the island, and then I had to go back to the states.

This you won't believe, I have had dreams about the Island ever since I left, and the dreams come about twice a week.

Are there any patches left or any kind of souvnier that I might have or purchase.

Name: Ron Boutwell
Location: Biloxi, Mississippi
Year: 1996 - 2003
Email: ronboutwell@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, April 13, 2006
Time: 11:44:00 AM

Comments:

When I left JI, I always felt that it was simply my time to go and I would never look back. Since leaving, I have thought about the place more than any other place I have ever been. I am in Baghdad, Iraq at the moment. I probably will not feel the same about this place. (LOL)

Name: Bob Miller
Location: Rutledge Pa.
Year: 2001/2002
Email: bobmiller6970@aol.com
Date: Saturday, April 15, 2006
Time: 12:29:54 PM

Comments:

Worked another chem site at Aberdeen Md after leaving JI, now working in the civilian field again, matter of fact I.m at work now operating boilers/maintenance. I can only say that JI was probably about the best experience I ever had in my life, all you folks were a special breed and I also miss the Rock, too bad it had to end. Take care and great site.
 

Name: MSG James Akers
Location: Tennessee
Year: Jul 86 - Jul 87
Email: james.akers@us.army.mil
Date: Monday, April 17, 2006
Time: 07:52:53 PM

Comments:

I was assigned to HHD and worked in the "SAMS" (Site Air Monitoring) section. We still wore the jungle uniforms then. JACADS was under construction thoughout my tour. I worked with a lot of great people during that year.
It looks like they updated the island a litle after I left? This is a great website. I appreciate the efforts that were undertaken to put this site together. Thanks

Name: John Welton
Location: Copperas Cove, Tx (Balad, Iraq)
Year: 91 to 92 and 99 to 00
Email: john.n.welton@us.army.mil
Date: Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Time: 04:01:22 PM

Comments:

As you can see I am currently serving in Iraq and working the Night Shift at a BDE TOC, but its my night off! I seen the link to the site on the Enlisted Chemical News Letter sent out by the school house and had a warm feeling that I would get to see alot of memories and stories from an asorted bunch of characters, and I did!
My first tour was as an E-2 (Twice) lol....... Got to go for now .... Here I thought I had some time and then I realizes where I was.... The "Rock" is and will always be in my mind and heart. Until next time, I will have an interesting story to tell.

Name: Jay Rudko
Location: Pembroke Pines, FL
Year: 1975
Email: jaybirdr100@hotmail.com
Date: Sunday, April 23, 2006
Time: 10:40:16 AM

Comments:

Three months on the rock! I was TDY with the Det. 2, 18th SURS for the changeover of the Baker-Nunn system from military to civilian operation. And what a three months it was! I had more fun there in three months than I did anywhere else I was stationed. Part of the fun was volunteer work at AFRTS, running camera for "TV10 Dimensional News", and running the first 5 hours of programming on TV10 on Saturdays. I also did an occasional fill-in on AFJI as well. Carl Sargent, Andy Anderson, and Dave Harrington (with whom I'm still in touch) were some of the most memorable people I met there. I was also on the rock for a rocket launch. Most of the island was evacuated to the area by the JOC building. I got to watch the launch from the roof. I also saw another familiar name on the site; Jim Schwilling and I were stationed together at Edwards AFB, HQ for the 18th Surveillance Sq. I have some great memories of the rock, and I'll never forget the great time I had there; the food, the friends, now if only there would have been women...

Name: Raymond Miller
Location: Fort Campbell Ky
Year: 00-01
Email:
Date: Sunday, April 23, 2006
Time: 11:04:26 AM

Comments:

I was Squad Leader for some the best soldiers I have ahd the Privelge to serve with. 1st Platoon "Raise Up".
My time on the "Rock" has to be one of the two most unique experienes I have had in the military.

Name: Raymond Miller
Location: Ft Campbell KY
Year: 00-01
Email:
Date: Sunday, April 23, 2006
Time: 11:13:25 AM

Comments:

If Anyone has an extra Closure coin I would love to have one for my military coin collection. I left JI in Nov 01 and just missed the actual closure. If you can spare the coin I would be extremly apprecaitive.

Name: Don P. Hudgell III
Location: Ft. Leonard Wood Missouri
Year: 1989-1990
Email: thehudgells@earthlink.net
Date: Thursday, April 27, 2006
Time: 09:24:00 AM

Comments:

I have a lot of pictures of Island life and some underwater pictures and would like to know what type memories you would like. I worked in the Red Hat Area as well as part-time for Holmes and Narver and at the plant on the Weekends as an escort.
 

Name: Don Gongaware
Location: Carmel, IN
Year: 1954-55
Email: DGongaware@msn.com
Date: Sunday, April 30, 2006
Time: 03:15:59 PM

Comments:

During my stay, JI's mission was as an emergency landing site for flights from Japan to Hawaii. The B-29 and SA16 seaplanes were there on standby for downed aircraft.

Based on your website, it looks like the island was a lot smaller in 1954 and had no trees! My recollection is that runway and tarmac covered over half of the island. I don't remember an outdoor theatre - must have come along later. No indoor snack bar either. I was enlisted Air Force and we had a small outdoor club on the water (it sold 3.2% beer).

I was the radio station manager and DJ for WVTV, the AFRS (later AFRTS) station. I worked the station every day and water skied between LP's! I was also one of 4 telephone operators and the mail clerk - gives you some idea of how few folks were on the island.

We had a base commander who insisted on haircuts, shaves and wearing a cap while outside. He said he didn't want to see us "go native", which would have been easy to do in that environment. He also had us do marching exercises on the runway from time to time.

I loved my stay an savor the memories

Name: Joe Gibilisco
Location: St. Augustine, Florida
Year: '94 - '95 & 2003 to closure
Email: chaplaing@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, April 28, 2006
Time: 10:19:04 AM

Comments:

Very nice website. I was the Chaplain (Army) and later a Raytheon contract Chaplain up until closure.

While JI was notorious for partying, etc., some people are not aware that there were a number of people who actively practiced their faith while there. I was privileged to serve those folks on two occasions. As we closed down the chapel the small JI congregations were able to help a lot of homeless folk in Honolulu by giving clothing and other items to River of Life Mission -- downtown Honolulu -- as well as build churches in many third world countries.

Thanks for your efforts and for all who served on JI.

Blessings,

Chaplain (LTC) Joe Gibilisco, USA, ret.

Name: Donald Dotson
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Year: Dec 68 to Dec 69
Email: ddotson@acns.fsu.edu
Date: Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Time: 01:54:17 PM

Comments:

Thought it was the end of the world when I was assigned to JI (USAF). Soon adjusted and time went by. Tape recording was a big thing when I was there. I worked at the Transmitter site on Hikina Island. As the years have gone by I have fond memories of the rock. I was deeply saddened to hear it has been abandoned. Made a lot of friends there and had some good times.Hope some of them come across this site and post comments.

Name: Dosie Maassen
Location: Michigan
Year: 88-89
Email: dcamaassen@hotmail.com
Date: Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Time: 06:02:11 AM

Comments:

Hey, does anyone know what they did to that building on North Island. I remember the windows all being apinted and covered and the rumor was it had to do with Nukes. Did they tear it down also, or it is the only building left in the middle of nowhere. Thanks

Name: DAVID THOMAS KILLOUGH
Location: RELIANT STADIUM AREA, HOUSTON, TX
Year: 1993, AUGUST-DECEMBER.
Email: kilodt@msn.com
Date: Thursday, May 04, 2006
Time: 04:45:34 AM

Comments:

Important financial information for former JI residents who have cancer, berylliosis, or silicosis:

The DoE has established a workers' compensation program.

Please see the following website:

www.dol.gov/esa/regs/compliance/owcp/eeoicp/main.htm

Name: Bob Brunner
Location: Roanoke VA
Year: 1971
Email: bobbrunner@att.net
Date: Saturday, May 06, 2006
Time: 10:37:13 AM

Comments:

When I think back and see the pictures on the Web site I remember working at the radio station on Johnston Is. What a job. I went to work at 6:00 and I went Scuba Diving at 1:00. Then back to work. I remember playing "Leaving on a Jet Plane" every Thursday when the one flight came in. After a year it was my time to leave.

When I get my pictures out of storage I will also add them. It was a once in a life time experience.

Bob Brunner

Name: Bruce Weatherly
Location: Lebanon, Oregon
Year: 1970-1971
Email: skeeter97355@aol.com
Date: Sunday, May 14, 2006
Time: 12:26:30 AM

Comments:

This is a nice site about JI. I served as an Engineman second class in the USCG on Sand Island. I put in for duty in Nam and instead ended up at JI. I did enjoy my tour, the best of fishing ever, and great snorkeling. I do not remember any USO shows at all during my tour, either my memory is bad or they were just for the personel on the main Island JI. In any case I always wanted to come back out to JI someday and relive those good old days of snorkeling and fishing. I had about two months to go on JI when the nerve gas came, I was the last one allowed to keep my beard. Saw two rocket launches while stationed on the Island. I would not trade my tour on JI for anything, it was a great time.
Bruce Weatherly

Name: W T Haley Bellevue, Nebraska USA
Location: Bellevue, NE 68005 USA
Year: 68-71 All TDY from Vandenburg AFB CA
Email: jthaley1@msn.com
Date: Friday, May 12, 2006
Time: 07:32:37 PM

Comments:

I would go to JI TDY with 25 ADS on launch crew manning THOR sites. I also ran phone patches from KJ6BZ to States for personnel. I just can not believe the pix on site. We never had palm trees. The chow was good. We played softball against the officers every Sat morn. I have some launch crew pix inside control center and when we had to clean up our launch wearing our safety gear. And some shark pix. Was the shark burial ground still there?

Name: Jake Sitters
Location: near San Antonio TX
Year: 1964-1992
Email: cvlkyote@Quixnet.net
Date: Friday, May 25, 2007
Time: 04:16:14 PM

Comments:

JOHNSTON ISLAND REUNION IN LAS VEGAS NV
JULY 8-9-10, 2007!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everybody who was ever assigned to Johnston Atoll, military and civilian, is invited to attend. A golf tournament will be held the morning of 8 July, and a dinner-dance will be held the evening of 8 July. To make reservations for the tournament and/or the dinner-dance, or to make room reservations, go to www.baskow.com/client/johnston or call Lorraine Gibson of Baskow & Assoc in Las Vegas at 702/733-7818. Negotiations have been made for special room rates at the Golden Nugget...$69 plus tax per nights of 8, 9, l0 July; ($139 plus tax for night of 7 July). Dinner-dance is $65 per person. That may seem steep but it's to rent the grand ballroom at the Golden Nugget, hire the caterer (set up and clean up) and hire a pro DJ. (Does anyone know how one might get a copy of Larry Lariviere's JI Saturday Night? It would be great to have a copy to play at the reunion! Better yet, if he's got a CD of the song for sale at the reunion?) If you plan to attend, bring along photos or memorabilia for display. Any questions or want more information, contact Maureen Burns at MBurns@fildewhinks.com.

Having worked on Johnston Island for 28 years, I met lotsa people, both military & civilian. I think most everybody who wasn't on duty came to my retirement party at Uncle Joe's! I have only the fondest memories of the place, the people. Viewing the razing of all the buildings/facilities has been like having my heart ripped out of my chest. Aaaaaaaaaah! It really hurts.

I hope a lot of you will make it to the reunion. I'm really looking forward to it!!!