VPNAVY VP-5 Open House
http://www.vpnavy.org
VPNAVY Address

Note VP-45 NoticeNote

Note NOTICE: "...Limited Edition (hand signed and numbered) Prints of VP-45 P-3 in Action Available!..." Contributed by HOBGOOD, CDR Bill Retired hobgood.bill@gmail.com [Updated 01JUL2011 | 17MAR2011]

VP-45 P-3 Limited Edition
Limited Edition (hand signed and numbered) Prints of VP-45 P-3 in Action Available!



Pelicans!!!The VP-45 Association is in the process of commissioning aviation artist Peter Wenman to paint a 36' X 18" original oil which will depict a P-3 rolling in on a surfaced Juliet class SSG in the vicinity of a carrier battle group (CV and a couple escorts in the distance on the dawn lit horizon).

The cost of a commissioned piece of original art is quite high - around $2400.00; but not bad for an original work that large. After the original, a run of hand signed and numbered prints of the original art can be ordered. Cost of the prints is currently $95.00 (includes shipping to anywhere in CONUS). This artwork will be a beautiful 28" x 14" limited edition print (30" x 17" with borders) of the original, hand signed and numbered by the artist You do NOT have to be a member of the VP-45 Association to participate in this offer…or even have been assigned to VP-45.

For those of us VP guys who have toured the awe-inspiring National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, what you will surely notice is the lack of any post WW-II VP aircraft, artwork or displays. We think there is still a P-3A outside the museum somewhere but we certainly seem to have been left out. Our proposal is to donate the original painting to the Museum. Remember, the P-3 will soon be history after protecting America for almost 50 years!

Print orders must be pre-paid to the VP-45 Association.

Just think!! Where else can you get a low edition number, museum quality print of an aircraft you flew for these prices? And think how cool it would be to finally have a large original oil painting of the Mighty Orion hanging in the museum. It will likely be the only highly visible likeness of a P-3 anywhere in the museum.

The artist's preliminary scene/color rough is above: P-3 rolling in to mark on top a Juliett class SSG on the surface in the vicinity of a US surface battle group.

Links at Peter Wenman's Website:

Home page is here: Pete Wenman Home

Past art work by Pete: Pete Wenman Gallery

Commissioned work info: Pete Wenman Commission Info

Two of Pete's original works have displayed in the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola. See here: Pete Wenman NMNA

If you want to per-order and pre-pay for one of these prints, please send an email to Buck Jones, President of the VP-45 Association,( bpj1927@yahoo.com) and Bill Hobgood, Head of Art Committee (hobgood.bill@gmail.com). In your email please state that you agree to pre-pay and at what print price amount (includes postage) would you agree to pay. Also include your full name, current or former rate/rank, dates assigned to VP-45 and current address. These will be a limited edition print (total number TBA), hand signed and numbered by the artist, ready to frame and mailed in an art tube. The total number of prints will be determined by the response to this notice and notices/emails elsewhere. So please ONLY say you are interested if you can pay quickly to the following via check:

Mr. Patrick J. Imhof, Treasurer
Patron Four Five Association
3204 E. Moreno St
Pensacola, FL 32503-6529

Our best guess is the oil would be done by the fall of 2011 and the prints shortly after that.


Note NOTICE: "...I served with VP-45 NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1975. I'm trying to locate the group squadron photo taken in front of the hanger. I lost my copy during Hurricane Rita. Patty Lillapop was in the squadron at that time and probably has a copy. If anyone in our squadron has that photo, or NAS Sigonella, Sicily group shots, I'd love to get a copy. AN Robert W. Hennis bobthebuilder2@live.com..." [03NOV2008]


Note NOTICE: "...I am a Chilean Navy P-3 pilot (LCDR Jaime Contreras Labra). I am trying to find LCDR Christopher Carmona (P-3 Pilot) who was stationed at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. We served together from 2001 to 2003 in a special exchange program in Chile. Unfortunately, I don't remember the his squadron VP-5, VP-16, VP-45 or VP-62). If anyone could provide me with his contact information - I would be very grateful. Thank you very much. LCDR Jaime Contreras LABRA, Commander, LSM 94 "Orompello", Chilean Navy..." Contributed by LCDR Jaime Contreras LABRA jaimecontreraslabra@gmail.com [27MAR2008]

UPDATE "...Found! Thank you for everyone's help. LCDR Jaime Contreras LABRA jaimecontreraslabra@gmail.com..." [29MAR2008]


Note NOTICE: "...CPRW-11, VP-5, VP-16, VP-45 and Historical P-3 Artifacts Needed for Display. Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN (CPRW-11) will be unveiling a brand new, state of the art Warfare Development Center onboard NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Please contact LCDR Dave Gaddis (david.gaddis2@navy.mil) or LTJG Kelly Chufo (kelly.m.chufo@navy.mil) if you have something you would like to donate to the warfighters of the future to help them remember the past. Any and all types/sizes of memorabilia are welcome! You may also reach us by phone at (904) 542-2823. GO NAVY!..." Contributed by LTJG Kelly Chufo kelly.m.chufo@navy.mil VP-45 Squadron Transition Team [25AUG2006]


Note NOTICE: "...I flew PBY-5A BuNo 46522 while attached to both VPB-45 in (NAF Belem, Brazil) 1944-45 and VJ-16 (NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba) 1945-46. Last Friday, September 16, 2005, I was thrilled and honored to sit in the cockpit of this airworthy aircraft (N2172N) and take pictures. My log book indicates I last flew it in August 1945. It has been housed in the Tillamook Air Museum for some time. There are two dozen or more airworthy warbirds in this collection. The hangar is a former Navy Blimp Hangar that could house nine inflated Blimps simultaneously. It is 15 stories high and reputed (when constructed) to be the largest wooden structure ever built...Roger D. Ferguson rdferg1920@sbcglobal.net..." [23SEP2005]


Note NOTICE: "...Looking for AME3 Todd Smith (VP-5 mid 1980's), PC3 Cheryl Martin (VP-45 late 1980's early 1990's), AME2 Robert Rewinkle VP-49 - 1985-1989), AS3 Eddie Martinez VP-49 - 1987-1990) and AS3 Mark Hughes VP-49 - 1987-1990). Thanks...Dobie Hicks mrbezze62@excite.com..." [21AUG2005]


Note NOTICE: "...Trying to locate any VP-45 Shipmates that served with me on detachment to NAF Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam in 1968-69. Trying to establish proof of "in-country" service for VA claim purposes. Please pass the word. Any help would be appreciated. (352) 473-4046. Thank you...Don Goshorn dmw@category5.net..." [30JUL2005]


Note NOTICE: "...My name is Jill Domogauer I am a proud Navy Brat. My dad searved 22 years in the Navy. I was born when my Dad was serving with VP-45 deployed to NAS Sigonella, Sicily (my mother went into early labor). The crew got us all safely to Germany. I am a twin I was born as we landed in Frankfurt Inter National Airport and 45 minutes later my twin brother Justin was born. They renamed the plane's mascot Clark's Stork's Taxi. If anybody who was on that plane on June 8, 1978 please contact me. If anyone knows if the plane is still around please let me know my brother and I would love to see it...Jill Domogauer jdomogauer@cityofconway.com..." [26JUL2004]


Note NOTICE: "...Navy Establishing Augment Units For All FRS's Including VP-30..." Contributed by LCDR Robert J. Cable cablerj@vp30.navy.mil [03DEC2003]

VP-30 SAU The Navy is scheduling the establishment of a Squadron Augment Unit (SAU) attached to VP-30 for 1 October, 2004. Final numbers have yet to be released, but the SAU is likely to total near 150 personnel composed of Officer and Enlisted instructors and maintenance personnel. The SAU has begun recruiting the advance party of 20 maintainers in the AD, AE, AT, AM, and AME rates. If you are interested in serving as a Selected Reservist in VP-30 SAU, have P-3 NEC's and P-3 experience within the last 6 years, and are within drilling distance of NAS Jacksonville, Florida, please call Naval Reserve Recruiting Area SE at 904-542-3320 ext 490 or the SAU OIC at 904-542-0990.

AD - Aviation Machinist's Mate    AE - Aviation Electrician's Mate    AT - Aviation Electronics Technician    AM - Aviation Structural Mechanic

Note NOTICE: "...VP-5's Blanket Fundraiser - VP-5, VP-16, VP-30, VP-45, VP-62, CPRW-11, and NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." http://www.stilaradesignstudio.com/blanket.htm [26NOV2003]

Price: $50.00


Shipping: $5.00; each additional item is $2.00

Here is our pride and joy. The spouse's club from VP-5 designed this beautiful blanket and we would love to share it with as many people as we can. This blanket features all of the patches from each P-3 squadron (VP-5, VP-16, VP-30, VP-45, and VP-62) at NAS Jacksonville, Florida and is 68" (so it's pretty big) . It even has the new patch from VP-45. No detail has been overlooked. This blanket is even more beautiful in person with vivid colors. We think this blanket would make a wonderful gift for the holidays and even a great keepsake for our own service members. A percentage of our proceeds will go to charities such as, Hope Therapy, Humane Society, Quigley House, Childrens Hospitals, and to needy families.

We hope you will all help support these wonderful causes by enjoying your very own patriotic blanket.

If you would like to purchase a blanket now please press the PayPal button and you will be brought to a check out page. You will receive a personal confirmation email from me when payment is received and your item(s) will be shipped out the following day. Express mail is available for rush deliveries, but please email me before payment as the shipping costs are higher then $5.00 . International shipping is also available, but again please email first as shipping costs are higher.

For more information please email: sara@stilaradesignstudio.com or call 904-885-9627

Note NOTICE: "...I was concerned why VP-45 is not listed in the Naval Historical Center's list of participating units in the Cuban Missile Crisis? We were deployed to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in 1962 and for many weeks flew recon flights finding and photographing Russian ships and subs. But, no mention of VP-45 in the list of units that were involved...Bob Comerford prof.bob1@verizon.net..." [14AUG2003]


Note NOTICE: "...God's speed to all my "Brothers in Arms" and former shipmates in VP-45. Where ever you are, my thoughts and prayers are with you. This goes for all the wonderfully brave men and women who are serving this Great Nation in these challenging times...LUKE, Kirby kluke@hyperusa.com..." [20MAR2003]


Note NOTICE: "...I'm a cadet in the UK and I was at RIAT 2002. I was very impressed by the crew of the Orion on show. They showed me and my friends around the aircraft and were very helpful. I purchased a squadron patch from them it says "VP-45" and its a picture of a bird flying over a sub with 2 bombs. I remember the navigators name was Sven. I would appreciate it if you could tell me wether they are coming back in 2003 and about the squadron is doing...Jim E. dark_spirit1500@yahoo.com..." [17JAN2003]


Note NOTICE: "...I am looking for AD3 Linc Kiger. Linc served with VP-45 NAS Bermuda around 1960...Frank Kennedy fkvr53@aol.com..." [03JUL2004]


Note NOTICE: "...I was an AGAN stationed at Naval Oceanography Command Detachment (NOCD) NAF Lajes, Azores, Portugal inside the ASWOC building from 84-86 I was wondering if you could help me locate someone. At that time he would have been from VP-45 CAC-2. FE AD1 Kevin (Dewey) Floyd. My sincerest thanks and appreciation for your help...SMITH, AGAN Cathie catnjes@aol.com..." [23MAR2002]


Note NOTICE: "...Looking for John Liposiky we both we F/E's in VP-45 or any one else from 77/84. Any F/E from that time would be great. Thanks...Steve Weicht sweicht@earthlink.net..." [31JUL2001]


Note NOTICE: "...I am in search of a couple of shipmates-Don Colin Campbell from Halifax Nova Scotia, I believe VP-45 or VP-49, NAS Jacksonville, Florida, 1966 to about 1968. Last I heard he was sailing around the country. Also Bill Brueggeman-stationed in NAS Patuxent River, Maryland (I think)-he was from Iowa and loved to fish and listen to Dylan. Same time period. I appreciate any assistance...Jack Montfort montforj@yahoo.com..." [18JUL2001]


Note NOTICE: "...When reporting for my midshipman air summer in 1956, I got a hop from NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone to NAS Corpus Christi, Texas with VP-45. The squadron, based in NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone, had been assigned to do the training and familiarization in the Martin flying boats. Most of the squadron went up. It was a great bunch of Es and Os who helped us along from the classroom to the air. I went to the black shoe navy and never heard from or of VP-45 again. I am sure the men who served in that squadron are proud of it...SMITH, Paul psmith@cwp.net.pa..." [26MAR2001]


Note NOTICE: "...I am looking for John Hartman who served in Bermuda from approx 1956-59 as an AT2. Any information as to his whereabouts, address, email or phone nbr would be appreciated. Thanks, Lou Marrero lmarrvp49@hotmail.com..." [15FEB2001]


Note NOTICE: "...I am looking for a Shipmate named ADR3 Bruce Plummer, VP-45 from 1959-1962...Frank Kennedy fkvr53@aol.com..." [15JAN2001]


Note NOTICE: "...I was looking for a former Navy school friend from the BOOST program in San Diego from 1985-86 - Rodney Davis. I am amazed at the awesome accomplishments he has made in his Naval career and I would like to get in touch with him. I believe he is in the VP-45 "Pelicans" as a Lieutenant. Please forward my E-mail. Thanks! What a small world!!! (By the way he knew me as Melanie Bailey, then) Thank-you again...Mrs. Melani Baker Souslamer@aol.com..." [12JAN2001]


Note NOTICE: "...Would like to hear from Wes Horne with VP-45 (same time). If anyone has info on Wes, please E-mail me. Wes still owes me 2 bucks for cab fare from Hamilton...John Burgess Johnnybluehair@AOL.com..." [01AUG2000]


Note NOTICE: "...I am looking for Ernie Harris. We where stationed together on the CVA-41 Midway. Then with the VP-45 from NAS Coco Solo, Panama, Canal Zone to NAS Bermuda. If anyone has any information please e-mail...Thomas Whalen (BM3 Ramp Rats) Lnklacey@aol.com..." [17JUN2000]


Note NOTICE: "...Anyone having any idea as to the whereabouts of Bill Berg or Roy Mulcahy or Bob Frye from VP-45 in the 54-56 timeframe, please contact me. Thanks...Ken Gold goldkr@att.net..." [01MAY2000]


Note NOTICE: "...I'm looking for AW2 James Christopher Hawkins. I heard that he is currently active duty at VP-45. This is an old buddy of his from the USS Fox CG-33. PLease tell him that I'm back in the Navy. Thanks...Vanderhoofven sea33horse@excite.com..." [02FEB2000]


Note NOTICE: "...TO ALL PELICANS (Past and Present): There is an active VP-45 Association of over 450 members you may want to join. Members' tours range from November 1942 when the squadron was established as VP-205, to 1948 when it was redesignated VP-45, to the present. A printed address roster and an e-mail roster are available, as is A TWICE YEARLY NEWSLETTER YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS. Reunions are held every even numbered year. Dues are only $10/year ($40/5 years or $100/life). Contact the Secretary, C. B. Caldwell, at 1061 Arnold Way, Alpine CA 91901-2721, or e-mail at cbc222.cald@gmail.com. You'll be glad you did!..." Contributed by Charles Caldwell cbc222.cald@gmail.com [10OCT99]


Note NOTICE: "...I am currently in the Navy and I lucked out and got into the Avaition rating. I however didn't luck out and get attached to a P-3 squadron. I am currently standing up a branch newF/A-18E/F squadron VFA-122. But in the last four years I have lost touch with my cousin who did luck out on both accounts. Last I knew she was in NS Roosevelt Roads, PR. But I can't get any contact with her. Can anybody help me? She is an "AE" and her name is Nicole Speranza. I would greatly appreciate it if anyone has any info. P. S. - I thought she was in VP-45...Tom Turcotte TOMTURCOTTE14@HOTMAIL.COM..." [09SEP99]


Note NOTICE: "...Looking for ADC Vince Davis VP-45 76-79....David Johnston johnstonfarm@conninc.com..." [09JUN99]


Note NOTICE: "...I am looking for information that will help me locate my Father's (LCDR Raymond Bryant Jr. Ret) friends. He served with VP-48. His career began as an enlisted sailor in 1948 at NAS Bermuda. He was ATC at Kansas and (I believe) he then was involved with PBY's. He was promoted to the Officer ranks in Texas where I was born. This was followed by flight training in Florida (where else) ;-). All his time was spent with at P3 stations. He served in San Diego 1960-1964, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland 1964-1967, NAS Norfolk, Virginia 1967, and retired in 1974. I remember names like Dave Stromberg and Jack Rennie. I would like Dad's friends to write him as he has had a massive stroke and I feel this may help. Additional Information Provided [22JUN98]: I found the pilot logs VP-45 10-17-47 TO 3-31-53, VP-8 4-23-53 TO 3-31-55, VP-48 6-26-61 TO 8-24-64, WSJ might be a "T" here (PAX-RIVER) 9-21-64 TO 7-31-67, FCPCLANT 8 8-67 TO RETIREMENT 1974. Thank you.....Wanda (Raye) Bryant, daughter #5 sound@albemarlenet.com..."

UPDATE 20JUN98 Wanda has heard from one shipmate who might have known her Dad...Thanks!

UPDATE 22JUN98 I heard from a co-worker and friend who worked with Dad on the P-3 Projects as a civilian with RBC INC.

UPDATE 12JUL98 We spent the afternoon with Ret Capt Zeisel, who remembers my Dad from PAX River days. We really had fun especially Dick and Ray. The web site has helped me find several of my Dad's friends. Thanks for everyones help. Wanda


Note NOTICE: "...I am looking for AMH2 Steven Lunn curently serving with VP-45 AF Shop. If any body knows him please ask him to contact me. Thanks!...Mike trans132am@aol.com" [28MAY98]

UPDATE "...I found the old boy and got things taken of - thanks!..." [18NOV99]


Return
"VP-45 Summary Page"