Guestbook Entries 150 people have signed this guestbook. Note: all of our messages are archived on occasion to keep page loading times low. You can view all of the archives to see previous entries. Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 13. 2024 at 6:22 a.m. Hello all. Another year has gone by. I was here yesterday on the page and I saw only one other person had signed in. Years ago when I first found this page, lots of people used to stop and put their comments. Not so much these days. I spoke with Brian’s mother before thanksgiving and spoke to another surviving spouse about a week ago. We had a cold snap here in FL that reminded me oh so many field problems at Ft Campbell and neighboring Ft Leonardwood. I could never forgot all the work we did with the various units at FTC. We went everywhere with everyone. They were good times and bad times, but all memories I will not forget. We can put this very tragic incident behind us but I will NEVER forget. I will always remember. God Speed Brian. Miss you brother. Bobby Tyrrell Bravo Co 326 Engineers Nostrum Est Charles V King from USA wrote on March 4. 2024 at 5:24 p.m. I was in the battalion that had MFO duty from Ft Campbell before these people went over to relieve the 82nd Abn battalion and was still at Ft Campbell when the plane went down Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2023 at 6:46 p.m. Hello all it’s that time again. Remembrance and honoring those who served and were lost in this crash. It seems hardly anyone visiting this page, but I will still be checking. I was looking at another site with info on the crash. This person obviously has no connection or vested interest in this, their post stated it was a tragic accident and human error caused by Canadians who failed to do their job and failed to de ice the plane. This person has not read any of the reports, seen any of the documentaries on this crash. Now I’m not a big theory conspiracist, but I don’t think ice could cause a plane explode in the air. None the less, it was a tragic loss for me, the families, 101st Abn Div, the US Army and the county. There is not a lot more I can say, I miss my friend and squad leader Brian Easley. I spoke to his mother about a month ago and another widow last week. God speed to all of those lives lost. God be with those 101st soldiers deployed now in Europe. We know they will need our prayers. They don’t make soldiers like they use to. Bobby “Lil Bob” Tyrrell B Co 326 Engr Bn Terry John from USA wrote on October 5. 2022 at 4:51 p.m. The soldiers we lost will always be remembered. I was still manning an observation post in Egypt when we got the news. We were on the last flight out. It was a sad day when we returned to Ft Campbell. Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2021 at 7:07 p.m. Hello, it’s that time of year again to mourn the loss of our friends of the 101st Airborne. I miss my friend Brian, he was my squad leader, friend, teacher and all-around great guy to hang out with. There really is not a whole lot I can say that I haven’t said over the past years on this forum. I seen that many people have visited the page since last year, but that is OK. We will never forget and will always remember the good times and the bad times we had together at the division, brigade, battalion, company and squad. God speed to all of those who are lost on this day in 1985. Bobby “Lil Bob” Tyrrell B Co 326 Engr Bn “The Beast” Thomas Anderson from USA wrote on August 4. 2021 at 9:20 p.m. Hello, Back in 1985 i was Sp/4 Thomas Anderson HHC 3/502nd Infantry working in S-3 as jeep driver for Maj Steven Roy. My deepest sympathies to those who lost loved ones on that sad December day. Les Fisher from USA wrote on June 1. 2021 at 5:11 p.m. Scott Gerdes. You've been on my mind, just wanted to say thank for taking my seat that day so many years ago. I knew you for such a short time but never made a better friend. I know I'll see you again someday my friend Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2020 at 10:20 a.m. Good morning everyone. I say good in a respectful way. What a year 2020 has been, and this marks the 35th year since this tragic day. Again I say what more can be said, we all remember where we were on this day when we heard the news. The phone calls we made, the crying we did and the bonds we have created over the years. I talked with Brian's brother Mike earlier this week and talked to his mom, Shirley today. It will always be hard for us, but life has to move on. I will never forget this day for as long as I live and will continue to post here for as long as this page stays here. I remember the good times and the bad times. The deployments, field problems, MOPP training in June, range, 101st Division Review on the parade field, division runs through out the post, rappelling out of Blackhawks and Hueys. Fast rope out the back of Chinooks and the two parachute jumps I made from the Chinook one Saturday. The sign out by post headquarters which said how many days we went without a traffic fatality. Finally God Speed Brian, we all miss you. I leave with these words, this current generation will never understand. For those who have served honorably in the 101st Airborne we lived it. John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. Bobby "Lil Bob" Tyrrell Bco 326 Engr Bn Billy Spivey Jr. from USA wrote on October 13. 2020 at 1:57 a.m. My Name is E-4 Billy Spivey Jr. I served in the MFO in the Sinai Egypt HHC 3/502 with these soldiers, I flew back ahead of these soldiers due to a leg injury on a commercial flight. As a cook I would see these men and women everyday. Share some laughs. I will never forget this morning as long as I live. Someone knocked on my barracks door yelling our plane crashed, Or was shot out the air. The post was immediately put on lockdown, We weren’t allowed to leave. Days later the rest of the unit arrived to Fort Campbell, I had lost 248 of my closest friends, Wow.... I lost or misplaced my yearbook that was given to us. To have another would mean the world to me. I have pictures while we were there swimming in Sham El Shiek, The Red Sea, The Dead Sea, In Cario Egypt, Wow. To this very day little was said about how, What, or What happend. For almost a year we were brothers and sisters, May they Rest In Peace. Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2019 at 12:06 p.m. Good afternoon all. Another year has gone by, 34 years. I recently read they moved the 101st Gander Memorial at Ft Campbell. One day I will make it there and pay my respects again. What can we that has not been said. I hope everyone who stops by this page will read and reflect what a tragedy this was for the 101st Abn and America.Ice, terrorist attack, static set off ammo in the cargo hold, we may never get the answers we need or accept. To this day I still miss the soldiers and brothers in arms we lost on this day. SSG Brian Easley is still guardian angel and is here on this page, Ft Campbell and his home town of Independence Missouri. I will never forget this day for as I live. Please take a minute out of you day to reflect and say prayers for the 248 101st Abn Div souls, 8 Aero Air crew members and their families. Please continue and say a prayer for the men and women who are still on active duty and for all of our first responders who are fighting evil stateside and abroad. I will always remember this day. Bravo Co 326th (The Beast) Engr Bn, "Nostrum Est". 502 Infantry Battalion (Strike). I will never forget the void left behind. God speed Brian. Sgt Robert "Lil Bob" Tyrrell 2nd Plt, 2nd Squad, Bravo Company 326th Engr Bn. Dave Crable from USA wrote on December 6. 2019 at 11:31 p.m. URL: http://davidallen@facebook.com Than you for putting this together for everyone involved. I served 1982-1986, which was Germany, 82-84; Ft Campbell 101st Airborne Division, B Company 3/502 Infantry Strike Battalion., 84-86., Thank you to the 1st responders., EVERYONE., How can one be over this., I’m assuming when we pass from this World and this Life., see y’all., Martin j downing from USA wrote on July 22. 2019 at 6:58 p.m. a cover up. will never be explained. swept under the carpet. they bought their way out of this tragedy LAJAUNDA CULBERT EDWARDS from USA wrote on January 13. 2019 at 12:32 a.m. IT WAS A HORRIFIC TRAGEDY I WAS BACK HOME IN LOUISIANA WHEN I HEARD THE NEWS THAT WAS REALLY A SAD DAY AND STILL IS. I STILL SAY A PRAYER TO THOSE BRAVE SOLDIERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.CAUSE MY HUSBAND WAS I WAS STATIONED IN FORT CAMPBELL KY.DOING THAT TIME WE USED TO LIVE IN OAK GROVE KY.THEN WE MOVED ON FORT CAMPBELL POST.MY HUSBAND GERLAND ANTHONY.HE WAS SUPPOSED TO GO BUT HIS BEST FRIEND THAT WASN'T MARRIED TOLD HIM HE WOULD TAKE HIS PLACE SINCE HE HAD ALREADY BEEN AND SAID BESIDE STAY WITH YOUR FAMILY.RIH SOLDIERS THIS WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN AND I'M STILL SAYING PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY Doug Sturgill from USA wrote on January 11. 2019 at 1:17 p.m. I was stationed at Ft. Belvoir, VA and was in the 15th Evacuation Hospital (now the 115 CSH at Ft. Polk). I was sent to Dover AFB for 3 1/2 days to X-ray the remains of the deceased. I was a 91Papa Field X-ray Tech. The MOS designation now is 68P, I think. I will never forget this experience and the grim work I and others had to do for those days in December '85. Honor and Respect to all the victims. Paul Matthew Webb from Canada wrote on December 15. 2018 at 8:45 p.m. There needs to be a further very detailed investigation on both sides of the border. My condolences to All touched by this event. God Bless Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2018 at 4:22 p.m. Wow 33 years. What do you say what you haven't already said or has been said. This still hurts because there has been no real closure. Ice, terrorist attack, static set off ammo in the cargo hold. We all have our beliefs. If you are a regular visitor to this page you have seen my posts over the years. I am almost out of words on what to say this year. Two days ago I called Brian's mother and we talked for a while. Catching up with each other as we move through life. I still believe Jesus assigned Brian as my guardian angel. I have spent 31 years in law enforcement and 9 years in the military and retired with no real physical injuries. Thank you Brian and Jesus! I will never forget this day for as I live. Please take a minute out of you day to reflect and say prayers for the 248 101st Abn Div souls, 8 Aero Air crew members and their families. Please continue and say a prayer for the men and women still on duty to keep our world safe and are fighting evil stateside and abroad. I will always remember this day. Bravo Co 326th (The Beast) Engr Bn, "Nostrum Est". 502 Infantry Battalion (Strike). I will never forget the void left behind. God speed Brian. Sgt Robert "Lil Bob" Tyrrell radar from USA wrote on December 12. 2018 at 7:41 a.m. Hard to believe it's been 33 years since this horrible tragedy. 33 years of inner turmoil from working at Dover AFB mortuary to bring these soldiers home. No closure to the families and all affected by this due to the cover up of what actually occurred that fateful day. May the families of those lost remember their loved ones this Christmas and know you're in my thoughts. I was honored to bring your son home. Walter Kaplin from USA wrote on December 12. 2018 at 1:19 a.m. Dear Son, It has been 33 miserable years without you. I will think about you and love you all the days of my life, and when my day are through, I will be home with you and your Mother, in Gods Hands for all Eternity. God Bless you Dear Son, SGT Robert S. Kaplin michael redel from USA wrote on June 16. 2018 at 7:42 p.m. my name is michael I was in 2/502 and went to dover and buried my fellow soldiers I still have nightmares of that month I was 18 at the time I would like to get write to others thanks John Ludeman from USA wrote on January 15. 2018 at 2:05 p.m. By the way, I forgot to mention that I flew to Gander for the memorial service this year and was met there by my good friend RJ. He showed me around Gander and talked me through what he experienced on that terrible day. I also had the opportunity to meet Gary Collins and his wife Rose. It was a true honor and privilege to be able to spend some time with them while I was visiting Gander. We met many, many wonderful people there. I am deeply sorry for all the family members lost in this tragedy. I assure you that even though I don't know every name, each and every one of them is still in my thoughts nearly every day. John L. Ludeman from USA wrote on January 15. 2018 at 1:51 p.m. I worked at the mortuary at Dover escorting the bodies of the fallen through the identification process. I am preparing to establish a Facebook page for the recovery personnel soon. The invisible victims of this tragedy are the recovery personnel who have silently dealt with all they have experienced. They need to know that they are not alone. I have become close friends with a Canadian that worked at the crash site when we both attended the 30th anniversary at Fort Campbell. Talking to someone that truly understands what we were dealing with has helped me heal a great deal. I am hopeful that setting up a page for recovery personnel only will allow that kind of candid communication, and help us all cope a little better. Mark J. Dunn, MAJ USA (R) from USA wrote on December 13. 2017 at 12:10 a.m. In memory of: CPT Robert M. King, 1LT Luis A. Avillan, SSG Jerry W. Holliman, LTC Marvin A. Jeffcoat,Jr., SP4 Jeff S. Kee, MAJ Michael R. Lawrence, CPT Edward J. Manion and CW2 Dirk A. Miller, some of whom I served with at Fort Campbell and most of whom the previous year as Commander, HHC, TF 4-187 MFO-Sinai. I was in Chicago in 1985, having left Campbell just after TF 3- 502 began its deployment for peacekeeping operations when I heard the news of the crash. I would never have believed this could happen. I am convinced that what happened is not what we have been told. I was on Arrow Air through Gander the previous year. To not de-ice in Gander during the winter months is like not filling up for a long trip. I fear this is yet another American tragedy for which there will be more questions than answers. Rest in Peace, Screaming Eagles of TF 3-502. You truly had a Rendevous with Destiny. Robert Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2017 at 6:37 a.m. Here I am again 32 years later. I will always remember this tragedy as the 101st Abn Div was a big part of my life, my first military post and made a huge impression on me during my military time. It was the standard I used as I grew up. I was stationed at Bco 326 Engr Bn and we supported the 502nd Inf. When they went to the field, we went. When they deployed, we went with them. One of the people I came to know at Bco was a Spc4 named Brian Easley who just rotated from Germany. We were squad mates and would go on to be my asst squad leader and then promoted to be my squad leader. The time came for us to rotate and go with the MFO to the Sinai. I was due to ETS and come home and go into the reserves. Brian asked me several times to come with him and the platoon on this mission. I almost extended to go but decided to come home. On December 12, I was at work and heard the terrible news of the crash. I was devastated! Yes we all have lost friends in the military, but nothing like this. Then I thought I could've been on that flight too. Since that tragic day I finished another 9 years in the Army reserves and collected a Transportation-88M MOS and a Field Artillary-13B MOS. I was honorably discharged in 1994. Since 1997, I have connected with Brian's mother in Independence Missouri. We talk on the phone, exchanged pictures and cards and talk about Brian. I know it has been hard on her, his family as well as me. I do believe Jesus has posted Brian as my guardian angel. I have spent 31 years in law enforcement and have retired unhurt. Thank you Jesus and Brian! It still hurts when you think about it and I will never forget. Please take a minute out of you day to reflect and say a prayer for the 248 101st Abn Div souls and 8 crew members which were lost on this day. Also say a prayer for the men and women still on duty to keep our world safe. I will always remember this day. Bravo Co 326th (The Beast) Engr Bn, "Nostrum Est". 502 Infantry Battalion (The Duece). I will never forget the void left behind. God speed Brian. Sgt Robert "Lil Bob" Tyrrell Rob York from USA wrote on December 12. 2017 at 6:18 a.m. I always take a long pause on the 12th to remember the brothers I lost on this day in 1985. I always catch myself wondering if I had decided to stay, and ultimately go with my friends. I will miss them forever Walt Kaplin from USA wrote on December 12. 2017 at 1:26 a.m. Dear Son. I's been 32 years since you were sent to God's paradise. As you know, your Mother is now with you. I will love you and think of you all the days of my life, and when my days are over, I'll be home with you "PALS FOREVER" for all eternity. I miss you Son and I love you. Dad Robyn Stack from USA wrote on November 30. 2017 at 9:33 a.m. A day that will always live in my mind. We didn't know what plane my son, Michael Shayne Stack, would be on but when we heard the first announcement of the crash over the radio-well there are some things you just know. Even if it takes almost 3 months to tell you what you know. I also know that love never dies. Bob Coleman from USA wrote on October 24. 2017 at 12:22 p.m. In 1997 I visited the memorial in Hopkinsville, KY while in the area on business. This past October 1st I was driving from St. John's to Corner Brook (NL) and was advised to stop at the Gander memorial by a relative. It was a very sobering visit as I walked the grounds. It was a beautiful Newfoundland fall day, but as I walked my vision was blurred by my tears. I said many prayers for all the members of the 101st Airborne. God Bless them, every one. Robyn Stack from USA wrote on September 18. 2017 at 9:47 p.m. Leah is right. I finally managed to visit the site in 2010,=. the grounds are beautiful and spending some time there gave me more of a sense of closure than I have had since 1985. Leah Adams from Canada wrote on September 13. 2017 at 8:54 p.m. We were posted in Gander at this time. My husband was RCMP and one of the first responders to this tragedy. I remember this day like it was yesterday. It was close to 7am (don't recall exactly) when we awoke to a very loud thump. My husband and I looked at each other and said, "what the heck was that?" We assumed it was just the airforce guys breaking the sound barrier again and fell back asleep. Within just a few minutes the phone rang and I remember my husband saying " what? This is a drill right? It's an EPA fight? How many on board?" You see, it was first thought that this was an Eastern Provincial Airways flight full of civilians. Of course it didn't take long to discover that it was Arrow Air carrying 101st Airborne soldiers home for Christmas. That morning, as my Husband rushed out the door, I turned on my police band radio and lived through the next several hours with the many first responders. I had two small babies to care for but I can tell you I always had one ear to the radio. For anyone reading this related to the 256 souls leaving earth that day, there could not have been more respect displayed to anyone than what the local first responders displayed that day. Two years ago, I had the privilege to return to Gander and visit the memorial... my God, what a feeling it was to walk the grounds and truly put closure to that day. The grounds are beautiful, but still keeping a realistic touch (e.g., there are markers throughout the bush where bodies lay). For anyone closely related to this tragedy, please consider visiting this memorial to help put closure to such a sad time. I have pictures of the memorial if anyone would like to see, please email me. Chaplain (LTC-Ret.) Hershel Don Yancey from USA wrote on September 7. 2017 at 4:21 p.m. I was in the 101st Airborne Division (AASLT) during this horrible time, and the thoughts of this tragedy are ever with me. 10 years later, I was in the division once again, and traveled with a contingency of Screaming Eagles to participate in a 10 Year Memorial Service at Canadian Forces Base, Gander. The wonderful people of Gander still hold close to their hearts these marvelous soldiers and their sacrifice. May God continue to hallow the memories of these Screaming Eagles and grant comfort to their families and friends who mourn them still. They are gone, but never forgotten! As the old Cavalrymen used to say, "We'll see you at Fiddler's Green!" Robyn Stack from USA wrote on June 1. 2017 at 1:11 a.m. My son, Michael Stack, was aboard this plane. we never had the chance to say Good bye.Other family members of t 101st Airborne had the privilege of saying good-bye/ MAny of us would still like that chanse Don.norup from USA wrote on March 16. 2017 at 4:19 a.m. I was part of that task force 30 years ago I cannot find closure until I know how and why,also I find it hard to deal with every day.I lost my buddies that day.The thought is getting hard to deal with. Martin downing from USA wrote on March 8. 2017 at 5:07 p.m. Well how many years must we pass until someone comes out of seclusion and reveals the truth. I'm only 1 person who was there. How much emotional pain are you willing to put us through before finding out what really happened. My roommate of 2 yr pfc Charles cupples was on board. .I'm still devastated to this day as why they had to die. I realize the good Lord looks down on us and leads us to the light. .the compensation for ones life is priceless. Martin j. Downing al muzer from USA wrote on January 30. 2017 at 5:47 a.m. was on the Dec 4th flight. No security, bags left unattended on the tarmac at Cairo. I was photo/journalist/illustrator June-Dec 1984 with 4/187th and then transferred over to 3/502nd those same months in 1985 I was supposed to be on the third (Dec. 12) of four flights going home. The day before the second flight was set to leave, Colonel Jeffcoat decided to let me go home a week earlier and bumped someone who thought he was leaving the next day to the third flight. The guilt still kills me. In addition to that guilt... there were 27 people on the plane that crashed who were there because they talked to me about my months in Sinai with 4/187 the year before and, on my recommendation decided to transfer to 3/502nd... ...or the 248 Fort Campbell soldiers returning from a six- month peace keeping mission in Sinai, Egypt who were killed on Dec. 12, 1985 when their plane blew up 90 seconds into takeoff after a refueling stop in Gander, Newfoundland. It took place not too long after the Iran/Contra deal and news of terrorist-related deaths of that many US soldiers would have 'hurt' Reagan --- Google it: Arrow Air; Gander Crash; Sinai. A terrorist faction claimed responsiblity before most knew it'd happened; smoke was in the lungs of those bodies that weren't blown to bits by the initial explosion; and all fuselage damage exhibited an 'extreme outward force' --- Official report: Ice on the Wings. Ramona from USA wrote on December 13. 2016 at 1:17 p.m. For 25 years I placed flowers on your gravesite at Fort Snelling Cemetery; and did so on the 31st Anniversary. You will never be forgotten and forever in my heart. R.I.P. Tim Always, Ramona Don from USA wrote on December 12. 2016 at 9:02 p.m. R.I.P. Task Force 3-502. I was in Cco. 3/502 6 months before the deployment. Miss all of you..... Strike and Kill Gary Collins from Canada wrote on December 12. 2016 at 5:31 p.m. Today my wife, Rose and I, walked down the snow covered road and laid a lone wreath down at the base of the silent witness memorial. It was the only one there. I will do so for as long as I am able because of a promise I made to one of the mothers of the 'Fallen Eagles.' Sleep well warriors - you are resting in friendly ground.... Robert Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 12. 2016 at 7:02 a.m. It's been 31 years since this tragedy and it still hurts. Let us not forget those who have perished and those who are still fighting evil in their place. I lost my best friend and squad leader on this day, SSG Brian Easley, Bco 326th Engr Bn. The Sinai Mission was called the Multinational Force and Observers. It was a peace keeping mission which was rotated between members of the 18th Airborne Corps. I am not sure if the MFO is still in place with everything that is going on in the area these days. Please take a minute to reflect and say a prayer for the 248 military souls and 8 crew members which were lost on this day. Also take a minute to say a prayer for the men and women still on duty to keep our world safe. I will always remember this day. I was in Bravo Co 326th Engr Bn, "Nostrum Est" which supported the 502 Infantry Battalion (The Duece). The 502nd and the 326th went everywhere together. I will always remember and never forget the void left behind. God speed to them all. Sgt Robert "Lil Bob" Tyrrell delford brys from USA wrote on December 12. 2016 at 5:09 a.m. I was in the 101st assigned to the 101stfinance company---that was a sad day in history as I had friends on that flight---it was the same day my Marine son was returning to Okinawa and I drove him to the airport in Nashville----On the way back from the airport I heard a news bulletin on the radio stating that a plane from Germany had crashed in Newfoundland---I immediately knew it was the soldiers returning from the mid East---As I say---that was a sad day for me and many many others Radar from USA wrote on December 6. 2016 at 11:38 a.m. Hard to believe it's been 31 years since this tragedy with still no closure for the families. I worked at Dover AFB Mortuary during this recovery and I was honored in taking care of your loved ones. May their memories keep you strong. Steve Donovan from Canada wrote on July 30. 2016 at 4:22 p.m. I was a young Serviceman working at 226 Radar Squadron in Gander when abruptly awaken up around 6:50AM by a loud knock on my Barrack's door from a friend exclaiming that there had been a airplane crash and all military persoonel must report for duty! For the next few days many of us military personnel worked tirelessly at the crash site along with RCMP, Fire Fighters, and other volunteers. It was hard to imagine the thoughtsgoing through one's mine with the devastation and tragic loss of so many. The military Chaplan walking beside us to talk and provide us spiritual strength and the Salvation Army handing out coffee and snacks during the wee hours of the morning provide us strength to carry on with this unimaginable task. With one's adrilian flowing, it really didn't totally sink in until the US Army came in to relieve us where a a few friends and I watched for the first time on TV, faces, names, and ages of the fallen service personnel; many the same age as I back then or younger. They had their whole life ahead of them to be snatched from then in one dramatic instant in time! There's not a month that goes by after 30 years that I don't think of these fallen souls. My thoughts and prayers go out to each and everyone of them. R.I.P. JH Burns from Canada wrote on April 14. 2016 at 5:07 p.m. URL: http://www.secreteast.ca Hi everyone, I am a journalist in Newfoundland and am working on a story about this crash. If you or anyone you know would like to share stories, details or anything please contact me at contact@secreteast.ca GC Ford from Canada wrote on January 23. 2016 at 7:45 a.m. I finally read your article. I've had it on printout since 2007. I was one of the 100 Canadian BDF Base Defense Force Military personnel tasked with carrying out recovery / guarding of remains and equipment weaponry etc... It was so horrific that I rarely visit the crash site as I find its too upsetting - the current beauty and peacefulness of the memorial clash with my memories. Just a note 41 duffel bags take up the equivalent space of the 6 large crates which may or may not have been removed immediately post crash.. Gail Adams from Canada wrote on December 13. 2015 at 9:57 p.m. It's a few hours past the 30th anniversary of the largest tragedy to happen in my hometown of Gander. To all the families of those that perished in the crash, take peace in knowing that in Gander, no one forgets. This 101st Airborne Division family lives on in the memory of those that lived through that sad day and the history we pass on to our children. Edward Bardes from USA wrote on December 13. 2015 at 12:42 p.m. Anyone well-versed in aviation should know that the minority report has nothing in the way of solid evidence. For starters: The time between when the landing gear left the runway and the time the plane hit the ground wasn't even 30 seconds. A fire could not have started and then taken hold before producing a sufficient amount of smoke to have been found in the quantities in which they were found in the victim's bodies all in less than 30 seconds. The degree of fragmentation of the bodies would've allowed soot deposits from the post-impact fire to enter the bodies after the accident. If the holes in the fuselage cited as having bent outward were caused by an in-flight explosion, something from the plane should have fallen somewhere between the runway and the point of impact. No such evidence was found in that area, which would attribute the holes in the fuselage as impact damage, not explosive damage. Witness sightings of fire in the sky can come from a variety of sources, including engine compressor stall induced by an aerodynamic stall. Those sightings prove nothing in the way of an explosion. The assertion of ice-free wings based on ground crew testimony of no ice doesn't account for the existence of clear ice, which was found to be the cause of the crash of Scandinavian Airlines Flight 751 in 1991. Clinton Dixon from USA wrote on December 12. 2015 at 11:15 p.m. PFC Thomas"Dewayne"Dixon age 19.Born August 9,1966.Murdered Thursday December 12,1985 Flight 1285(Go to Visuals-Sinai Yearbook July'85-December'85 Alpha Company and 3rd picture from left is Dewayne shaking hands with President Ronald Reagan's Undersecretary of State Mr.John Whitehead.Dewayne was left handed so Mr Whitehead initiated the handshake.This picture was taken in July so Dewayne is age 18)this is for you the viewer to put a name and face to my Hero and big brother- Dewayne,one of the victims among the 248 soldiers of 3/502nd Infantry 101st Airborne(Air Assault)even to this day at age 46,I still feel like I am younger than him.I want to say that I have visited this website and the Guestbook often through the years and have read"Our Collective Pain"Words that I certainly can relate to on a very personal level.I thought today would be a good 1st time to sign the Guestbook on the 30th Anniversary of 256 Souls Murdered.I want to say alot and put this down in a way that I believe Dewayne would like and yet without compromising my belief as to what happened to him and his friends.As for Justice,Not a snowballs chance in hell in this life.But I have searched for the truth as I feel he would have done for me.What really happened?Our Federal Government knows but due to Iran- Contra and in the name of National Security the survivor's families can not know.Well,here's a Fact:If death was instantaneous as we're told.Then how could they have breathed lethal levels of carbon monoxide into their lungs and thus get into their blood?(See Toxicology Reports)We lived in Sequatchie County - Dunlap,Tennessee.Dewayne would bring his buddies home on leave(AWOL for sure)on late Friday night on multiple occasions to my parents home and they would leave out to return to Ft.Campbell,KY around 12:00 noon on Sunday to be back on post.Dewayne's two best friends Wayne Reed from Washington State and Wayne Vinson from Virginia along with Edward Beer from Florida and Frank Wilkins from Pennsylvania all were taken in by our parents James Gordon Dixon and Rebecca Sue Dixon.Mom feed them home cooked breakfast and all 5 of them would pile up in the living room to get a couple of hours of sleep during these marathon weekend excursions and never complained.Our younger brother Gabriel was age 9 and he like myself age 16 along with mom and dad loved to hear these young soldiers stories and look at them.I have beautiful photos of Dewayne with Reed,Vinson and Beer with the Red Sea in the background while in the Sinai that Dewayne mailed home to us during that 5 and a half month summer tour with the MFO.On the morning of Thursday,December 12,1985 I got out of bed for school and turned on my stereo to KZ106 Rock Music station located in Chattanooga,Tennessee to hear that a plane carrying shoulders home to Ft.Campbell,KY from a six month tour of duty in the Sinai Desert Egypt had crashed in Gander Newfoundland Canada and I knew in my heart that Dewayne was dead and that I was f**ked for life and I was lost then as I am still to this day without his guidance.I walked out into the living room and our home phone rang and my granny answered it.It was Dewayne's girlfriend Priscilla asking if Dewayne was on the plane crash on CNN.Granny turned the TV on and then woke dad up to see what was confirming my gut feeling.Mom had already left for work.Gabe and I watched until we had to get on the school bus.I wanted to go with mom,dad and Priscilla to pick Dewayne up later that day but that was in question because it meant me missing school and eventually an aunt come to check me out of my junior year English class only to come home to a yard full of cars and a house full of relatives and friends and members from Daus Church of Christ.An aunt was talking to someone from the Army on a number relatives were directed to call to confirm if their loved one was on the doomed jet but dad had to give his SSN 415-35-**** out over the phone and you could hear a pin drop during the Calm before all Hell Broke Loose after dad said"So,he was on that flight"He staggered over to the couch where mom was already at and I saw them both crying in in inconsoluble anguish each in fetal position.Suddenly everyone became strangers to me to witness this most intimate of emotions of our parents.I was in shock.Dewaynes body was one of the first identified and was a beautiful military funeral on that cold December day.Buried in Collier Cemetery located in southern Blesoe County,Tennessee.Dewayne was given the rank as Specialist 4 posthumously and rank inscribed in the brick identifying his Maple Tree at the MFO Task force 3/502nd Memorial located behind the Burger King on post.248 Maple Trees one for each Victim.I have read author Led Filotas book Improbable Cause and I recommend it.Dewayne called home from Cairo,Egypt Tuesday night and was nervous and said they where having trouble getting a plane out and was delayed.In Improbable Cause I would years after the fact learn that the Egyptians had a lone guard on duty to guard the plane,a fight that occurred and a power outage on the tarmac as the plane was loaded or unloaded referring to the 40 duffle bags containing soldiers gear to make room for some Army Rangers boarding last minute from a mission and locker size boxes containing weapons.Mr Filotas was the Canadian Aviation Board Member that wrote the Minority Report and who tried to find the exact cause of the In-flight Explosion that blew a hole containing composite material inside the fuselage outward suggesting BOMB that caused the fire and the smoke inhaled by the 256 Murdered Victims before the plane crashed.Witness testimony never heard in the hearings along with other facts that indicate an "Under Rug Swept" Cover-up Collaboration between U.S.President Reagan the U.S.Army Brass,FBI and the Canadian Government.The Victims as weird as this sounds as well as their loved ones deserved and we still do deserve the truth about their murders.Dewayne was a sports enthusiast,great squirrel hunter and loved to fish and practical prankster.He had more friends,especially females than any person at his age I've ever known.He never had to bring a book home from school to study.He liked music by Def Leppard,Chicago,Journey,Madonna,ZZ Top and so much more.Sadly missed for past 30 years and counting.I love you Dewayne,My Big Brother and Hero.I look forward to our own Rendezvous with Destiny. your brother,Clinton Clinton Dixon from USA wrote on December 12. 2015 at 11:11 p.m. PFC Thomas"Dewayne"Dixon age 19.Born August 9,1966.Murdered Thursday December 12,1985 Flight 1285(Go to Visuals-Sinai Yearbook July'85-December'85 Alpha Company and 3rd picture from left is Dewayne shaking hands with President Ronald Reagan's Undersecretary of State Mr.John Whitehead.Dewayne was left handed so Mr Whitehead initiated the handshake.This picture was taken in July so Dewayne is age 18)this is for you the viewer to put a name and face to my Hero and big brother- Dewayne,one of the victims among the 248 soldiers of 3/502nd Infantry 101st Airborne(Air Assault)even to this day at age 46,I still feel like I am younger than him.I want to say that I have visited this website and the Guestbook often through the years and have read"Our Collective Pain"Words that I certainly can relate to on a very personal level.I thought today would be a good 1st time to sign the Guestbook on the 30th Anniversary of 256 Souls Murdered.I want to say alot and put this down in a way that I believe Dewayne would like and yet without compromising my belief as to what happened to him and his friends.As for Justice,Not a snowballs chance in hell in this life.But I have searched for the truth as I feel he would have done for me.What really happened?Our Federal Government knows but due to Iran- Contra and in the name of National Security the survivor's families can not know.Well,here's a Fact:If death was instantaneous as we're told.Then how could they have breathed lethal levels of carbon monoxide into their lungs and thus get into their blood?(See Toxicology Reports)We lived in Sequatchie County - Dunlap,Tennessee.Dewayne would bring his buddies home on leave(AWOL for sure)on late Friday night on multiple occasions to my parents home and they would leave out to return to Ft.Campbell,KY around 12:00 noon on Sunday to be back on post.Dewayne's two best friends Wayne Reed from Washington State and Wayne Vinson from Virginia along with Edward Beer from Florida and Frank Wilkins from Pennsylvania all were taken in by our parents James Gordon Dixon and Rebecca Sue Dixon.Mom feed them home cooked breakfast and all 5 of them would pile up in the living room to get a couple of hours of sleep during these marathon weekend excursions and never complained.Our younger brother Gabriel was age 9 and he like myself age 16 along with mom and dad loved to hear these young soldiers stories and look at them.I have beautiful photos of Dewayne with Reed,Vinson and Beer with the Red Sea in the background while in the Sinai that Dewayne mailed home to us during that 5 and a half month summer tour with the MFO.On the morning of Thursday,December 12,1985 I got out of bed for school and turned on my stereo to KZ106 Rock Music station located in Chattanooga,Tennessee to hear that a plane carrying shoulders home to Ft.Campbell,KY from a six month tour of duty in the Sinai Desert Egypt had crashed in Gander Newfoundland Canada and I knew in my heart that Dewayne was dead and that I was f**ked for life and I was lost then as I am still to this day without his guidance.I walked out into the living room and our home phone rang and my granny answered it.It was Dewayne's girlfriend Priscilla asking if Dewayne was on the plane crash on CNN.Granny turned the TV on and then woke dad up to see what was confirming my gut feeling.Mom had already left for work.Gabe and I watched until we had to get on the school bus.I wanted to go with mom,dad and Priscilla to pick Dewayne up later that day but that was in question because it meant me missing school and eventually an aunt come to check me out of my junior year English class only to come home to a yard full of cars and a house full of relatives and friends and members from Daus Church of Christ.An aunt was talking to someone from the Army on a number relatives were directed to call to confirm if their loved one was on the doomed jet but dad had to give his SSN 415-35-**** out over the phone and you could hear a pin drop during the Calm before all Hell Broke Loose after dad said"So,he was on that flight"He staggered over to the couch where mom was already at and I saw them both crying in in inconsoluble anguish each in fetal position.Suddenly everyone became strangers to me to witness this most intimate of emotions of our parents.I was in shock.Dewaynes body was one of the first identified and was a beautiful military funeral on that cold December day.Buried in Collier Cemetery located in southern Blessed County,Tennessee.Dewayne was given the rank as Specialist 4 posthumously and rank inscribed in the brick identifying his Maple Tree at the MFO Task force 3/502nd Memorial located behind the Burger King on post.248 Maple Trees one for each Victim.I have read author Led Filotas book Improbable Cause and I recommend it.Dewayne called home from Cairo,Egypt Tuesday night and was nervous and said they where having trouble getting a plane out and was delayed.In Improbable Cause I would years after the fact learn that the Egyptians had a lone guard on duty to guard the plane,a fight that occurred and a power outage on the tarmac as the plane was loaded or unloaded referring to the 40 duffle bags containing soldiers gear to make room for some Army Rangers boarding last minute from a mission and locker size boxes containing weapons.Mr Filotas was the Canadian Aviation Board Member that wrote the Minority Report and who tried to find the exact cause of the In-flight Explosion that blew a hole containing composite material inside the fuselage outward suggesting BOMB that caused the fire and the smoke inhaled by the 256 Murdered Victims before the plane crashed.Witness testimony never heard in the hearings along with other facts that indicate an "Under Rug Swept" Cover-up Collaboration between U.S.President Reagan the U.S.Army Brass,FBI and the Canadian Government.The Victims as weird as this sounds as well as their loved ones deserved and we still do deserve the truth about their murders.Dewayne was a sports enthusiast,great squirrel hunter and loved to fish and practical prankster.He had more friends,especially females than any person at his age I've ever known.He never had to bring a book home from school to study.He liked music by Def Leppard,Chicago,Journey,Madonna,ZZ Top and so much more.Sadly missed for past 30 years and counting.I love you Dewayne,My Big Brother and Hero.I look forward to our own Rendezvous with Destiny. your brother,Clinton Clinton Dixon from USA wrote on December 12. 2015 at 10:32 p.m. PFC Thomas"Dewayne"Dixon age 19.Born August 9,1966.Murdered Thursday December 12,1985(Go to Visuals.Sinai Yearbook July'85-December'85 Alpha Company and 3rd picture from left is Dewayne shaking hands with President Ronald Reagan's Undersecretary of State Mr.John Whitehead.This picture was taken in July so Dewayne is age 18)this is for you the viewer to put a name and face to my Hero and big brother-Dewayne,one of the victims among the 248 soldiers of 3/502nd Infantry101at Airborne(Air Assault)even to this day at age 46,I still feel like I am younger than him.I want to say that I have visited this website and the Guest book often through the years and have read"Our Collective Pain"Words that I certainly can relate to on a very personal level.I thought today would be a good 1st time to sign the Guestbook on the 30thAnniversity of 256 Souls Murdered.I want to say alot and put this down in a way that I believe Dewayne would like and want yet without compromising my belief as to what happened to him and his friends.As for Justice,Not a snowballs chance in hell in this life.But I have searched for the truth as I feel he would have done for me.What really happened?Our Federal Government knows but due to Iran-Contra and in the name of National Security the survivor's families can not know.We'll,here's a Fact:If death was instantaneous as we're told.Then how can you breath lethal levels of carbon monoxide into your lungs and thus get into your blood?We lived in Sequatchie County - Dunlap,Tennessee.Dewayne would bring his buddies home on leave(AWOL for sure)on late Friday night on multiple occasions to my parents home and they would leave out to return to Ft.Campbell,KY around 12:00 noon on Sunday to be back on post.Dewayne's two best friends Wayne Reed from Washington State and Wayne Vinson from Virginia along with Edward Beer from Florida and Frank Wilkins from Pennsylvania all were taken in by our parents James Gordon Dixon and Rebecca Sue Dixon.Mom feed them home cooked breakfast and all 5 of them would pile up in the living room to get a couple of hours of sleep during these marathon weekend excursions and never complained.Our younger brother Gabriel was age 9 and he like myself age 16 along with mom and dad loved to hear these young soldiers story's and look at them.I have beautiful photos of Dewayne with Reed,Vinson and Beer while in the Sinai that Dewayne mailed home to us during that 5 and a half month summer tour with the MFO.On the morning of Thursday,December 12,1985 I got out of bed for school and turned on my stereo to KZ106 Rock Music station located in Chattanooga,Tennessee to hear that a plane carrying shoulders home to Ft.Campbell,KY from a six month tour of duty in the Sinai Desert Egypt had crashed in Gander Newfoundland Canada and I knew in my heart that Dewayne was dead and that I was ducked for life and I was lost then as I am still to this day without his guidance.I walked out into the living room and our home phone rang and my granny answered it.It was Dewayne's girlfriend Priscilla asking if Dewayne was on the plane crash on CNN.Granny turned the TV on and then woke dad up to see what was confirming my gut feeling.Mom had already left for work.Gabe and I watched until we had to get on the school bus.I wanted to go with mom,dad and Priscilla to pick Dewayne up later that day but that was in question because it meant me missing school and eventually an aunt come to check me out of my junior year English class only to come home to a yard full of cars and a house full of relatives and friends and members from Daus Church of Christ.An aunt was talking to someone from the Army on a number relatives were directed to call to confirm if their loved one was on the doomed jet but dad had to give his SSN 415-35-**** out over the phone and you could hear a pin drop during the Calm before all Hell Broke Loose after dad said"So,he was on that flight"He staggered over to the couch where mom was already at and I saw them both crying in in inconsoluble anguish each in fetal position.Suddenly everyone became strangers to me to witness this most intimate of emotions of our parents.I was in shock.Dewaynes body was one of the first identified and was a beautiful military funeral on that cold December day.Dewayne was given the rank as Specialist 4 posthumously and says such inscribed in the brick identifying his Maple Tree at the MFO Task force 3/502nd Memorial located behind the burger King on post.248 Maple Trees one for each Victim.I have read author Led Filotas book Improbable Cause and I recommend it.Dewayne called home from Cairo,Egypt Tuesday night and was nervous and said they where having trouble getting a plane out and was delayed.In Improbable Cause I would years after the fact learn that the Egyptians had a lone guard on duty to guard the plane,a fight that occurred and a power outage on the tarmac as the plane was loaded or unloaded referring to the 40 diddle bags containing soldiers gear to make room for some Army Rangers boarding last minute from a mission.Mr Filotas was the Canadian Aviation Board Member who tried to find the exact cause of the In- flight Explosion that blew a hole containing composite material inside the ffuselage outward suggesting BOMB that caused the fire and the smoke inhaled by the 256 Murdered Victims before the plane crashed.Witness testimony never heard in the hearings along with other facts that indicate an "Under Rug Swept" Cover-up collaboration between President Reagan the U.S.Army Brass,FBI and the Canadian Government.The Victims as weird as this sounds as well as their loved ones deserved and we still do deserve the truth about their murders.Dewayne was a sports enthusiast,great squirrel hunter and loved to fish.He had more friends,especially females than any person at his age I've ever known.He never had to bring a book home from school to study.He liked Def Leppard,Chicago,Journey,Madonna,ZZ Top and so much more in music.Sadly missed for past 30 years and counting.I love you Dewayne,My Big Brother and Hero,Clinton Alan Tomlinson from United Kingdom wrote on December 12. 2015 at 9:59 a.m. Remembering the lost lives today, from an ex HNSI/MFO plumber, 3 years in Sinai. God Bless them and us all Walt Kaplin from USA wrote on December 12. 2015 at 8:18 a.m. To my beloved Son, SGT Robert S. Kaplin It's been 30 years since you were needlessly taken from us. Now your Mother has joined you. I will think of you and love you all the days of my life, and when my days are over, I will be home with you, your Mother and my Wife, Joanie, in God's Paradise. We are "Pals Forever Son". I love you and I miss you. Dad Bobby Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 11. 2015 at 11:09 a.m. It's been 30 years and when I think about the crash and the loss it still hurts. A lot of people forget, but there are those of us who will never forget. I was assigned to Bravo Company 326th Engr Bn and we were assigned to the 502nd as well as other units for support. I was due to ETS and I almost extended because I had been waiting for this mission since I got to Ft Campbell. I did not extend and still ETS'd in August 1985. A small platoon was assigned to go to the Sinai mission. My best friend, and former squad leader SSG Brian Easley was on that flight. It still hurts to this day. I talk to Brian's mother, Shirley Easley and send her letters and cards through out the year. I read Chris Landon's entry below on the crash. Thank you for more understanding on this Chris. We flew on Arrow Air to Central America the year before and the flight down was scary. Mind you I have flown my whole life and flown some scary night missions on Fort Campbell too. I was never so scared on the flight down. However the return trip was delayed for other reasons not divulged to us and we took a C141 for the return. I would rather have flown in a C130 than Arrow Air. Words alone cannot express the grief we feel. God speed to all of the 256 soldiers and crew who lost their life in this tragic crash. God Speed Brian. I will always remember you. Martin downing from USA wrote on December 9. 2015 at 9:05 p.m. Never forget as it seems like a lot of the world has. God bless the 101st. Marty downing Pam Johnson from USA wrote on December 9. 2015 at 11:39 a.m. I remember the day this happened and cannot believe it will 30 years this week. We lost a wonderful person and friend to this accident. Rest in Peace Robert Hoyer you have never been forgotten. Radar from USA wrote on December 7. 2015 at 11:35 a.m. I will never forget my duty at Dover AFB. Thank you 101st for your duty/sacrafice to our nation. Chris Landon from USA wrote on December 1. 2015 at 3:31 p.m. Correction: The first line in my previous post should read December of 1985 Chris Landon from USA wrote on November 25. 2015 at 3:48 p.m. Arrow Air's N950JW In November, 1985, a horrific crash occurred at Gander, Newfoundland. It involved an Arrow Air DC-8-63, N950JW out of Miami, Florida. According to factual events and eye witnesses’ statements, the following will attempt to give possible explanation to the survivors of the victims of this event. I was an operations manager for AMR Services at Kent County International Airport at the time. Today it is known as the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, or KGRR, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. AMR Services is a subsidiary of AMR Corporation along with American Airlines. AMR Services was contracted to American Airlines to service and maintain passenger aircraft at KGRR. We also contracted servicing to charter operators such as Arrow Air. It should be noted that I do not work for, or am I retired from AMR Services, at this time. Also, I do not speak on their behalf. About November 15, 1985 , Arrow Air's DC-8, N950JW arrived at KGRR at 2000 EST. The empty aircraft was ferried non-stop from Frankfort Germany. It was there to make a troop move to pick up 100 U.S Marines. When the aircraft landed, it was parked on the southeast corner of the main terminal tarmac. On the following evening it was scheduled to depart KGRR at 2300 EST. An air stair was put up to the forward cabin door, and as it opened, I was greeted by an agent of Arrow Air. It was this agent's responsibility to coordinate ground servicing needs with myself prior to the next day's flight. Immediately upon boarding the aircraft, I noticed a smell similar to marijuana smoke. Also, there was a small open cooler with beer and ice located just outside the cockpit door. I asked the flight engineer how much fuel he would need. His reply was, “I don't know. I have three fuel tank quantity indicators that are inoperative, and the fuel totalizer doesn't work either. I guess I'll take my chances until we get to New York.” I suggested the need for maintenance, but he declined. Additionally, there is a procedure to visually check the fuel quantity, which he failed to do. After the flight crew left for their hotel, I spent time with Arrow's agent going over the needs for the next night’s flight. He told me that the cockpit crew did not have an approach plate, used to identify terrain and landmarks on approach to the destination airport, for the Toledo airport. I didn't have one available, and he said they would go without it. When I asked him about potable water for the aircraft, he told me, “We'll have to guess at it. The water quantity indicators don't work” The water system was also leaking, which can create a large ball of ice on the aircraft while flying at high altitude. A large ball of ice on the outside of the airplane can disrupt the airflow and hinder the aerodynamics of flight. Also, as the plane approaches its destination airport, it descends into warmer air and the ice ball falls off, potentially causing damage where it finally lands. He also told me that the emergency flashlights in the cabin did not work. I checked them and he was right. He requested regular batteries to replace them. I advised him that regular flashlight batteries in a rechargeable system would get hot and create a possible fire hazard. The next evening he replaced them with regular batteries anyway. After he left, I did my usual walk-around inspection of the aircraft. I found that the right, aft tire on the left main landing gear truck was smaller than the other three and wasn't even touching the ground. Three main landing gear tires were worn beyond limits. The fellow that worked for me as a night shift supervisor, was with me when I said to him, “This airplane is doomed to crash”. He replied, “I know.” N950JW was scheduled to depart KGRR at 2300 EST the next evening. It was a clear night, and the winds were calm. The flight crew was scheduled to arrive at 2000 EST. The Marine unit that was to board that evening arrived as scheduled. The flight crew was an hour late. The military gear was to be loaded in the aft cargo bay. This is correct for the aircraft type. The Marines insisted on loading their own gear onto the aircraft. I do not believe this is a good practice. Line service personnel are trained not only to load cargo properly, they are also trained to inspect the inside of the cargo bay. After all was loaded, it was discovered that two of the cargo doors would not indicate “closed and locked.” The flight crew elected to fly as is. While the cargo was being loaded, the flight attendants made the decision to seat all of the passengers as far aft in the cabin as possible. The thinking was that it would be faster to board the rest of the passengers in Toledo. Now the plane was tail-heavy, and the fuel load unknown. Overall, there was a noted lack of professionalism and training in regard to the cabin crew. After the crew and passengers had boarded,inluding Arrow Air's agent, I was on a headset in front of the aircraft and in communication with the captain. I started to run the engine start checklist: brakes set, etc. The pilot told me, “I don't have time for a checklist. I just want to get the hell out of here. Clear to start #3?” “Clear to start,” I replied. #3 engine rotated but failed to start. The pilot then informed me he was going to let it spool down and try again. He tried #3 again with the same result. I could hear the igniters firing in #3 as he tried to start it. The engine igniters make a crackling noise, sort of a static sound in the ear. If the engine is rotating at about 18% of RPM and there is fuel going to the engine, the igniters will create spark and the engine will start. One possible reason for this engine not starting could be a bad fuel control valve. I asked him if he wanted maintenance, and he declined, saying the #3 engine had been past its time before overhaul (TBOH) for a long time, and he didn't want it in the logbook. He said he was going to start engines #1, #2 and #4. He would then come back to #3. The other three engines started without incident, and then #3 engine finally started. I signed off with the flight crew, wished them “Safe skies,” and watched as they taxied toward the runway for an eastbound departure. I then went to the operations office to wait for the crew to call me with their times off the gate and in the air. When I had his numbers, I would then call Arrow Air. GRR is a small airport and very quiet late at night, it wasn't hard to hear a DC-8 on a take-off roll. I didn't hear N950JW depart after waiting a reasonable amount of time. I called the control tower and asked them if Arrow Air had departed. They told me that the aircraft lost the #3 engine on take off rotation and the tail had hit the runway. Subsequently, the airplane slammed down on the main landing gear and then the nose gear. Normally, this would require an inspection of the underside of the tail and all landing gear. This did not happened. The control tower said that the airplane was stopped on the parallel taxiway. I then called the captain on the radio. He told me that the #3 engine had failed on takeoff and he had to abort. He said was trying to get it started while the flight attendants moved some of the passengers forward for better weight distribution. He said he thought that the aircraft was tail heavy. I again asked him if he wanted maintenance. He declined. The #3 engine eventually started, and the aircraft took off without further incident. Arrow Air's Flight 1285 I was in my office at KGRR on the morning of December 12,1985. It was no surprised to me when I was told that Arrow Air's N950JW had crashed at Gander. I was angry and upset, but not surprised. Almost a month prior to the crash, while handling this airplane, years of experience had told me that this was going to happen. It was only a matter of a few minutes. and the phone started ringing. The media was relentless in their efforts to find out any possible detail they could. Nothing had been mentioned in the Grand Rapids Press after the incident that had happened in November. However, on December 12, and December 13, 1985, the incident in November dominated the front page. It was stated in the press that some of the troops wanted to get off of the airplane when the first takeoff attempt failed the previous month in Grand Rapids. Their commanding officer refused. He had no idea of the condition of the aircraft. He trusted the cockpit crew and Arrow Air. My first responsibility that morning was to call my director in Arlington, Texas. When his secretary answered the phone, she told me to call American Airlines public relations office. I knew this girl from seeing her during many visits to AA's headquarters in Arlington. I talked to her almost daily. I called again, and she acted as if she didn't even know me. It was then that I remembered signing a document when I came on board with AMR. That document was a disclaimer, saying that AMR would not support me in any way in the event of an accident. That was it. AMR had “hung me out to dry.” It was shortly after the crash I quietly left AMR Services. I “resigned.” On the afternoon of the day of the crash, an agent from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) came to my office. He told me that he wanted to talk to Peter Smith. I explained to him that Peter Smith did not work for me; he worked for Arrow Air. I had somewhat assumed that he went down with the airplane. Smith had told me that he was always with the same airplane. As it turned out, Arrow Air's dispatcher had told the FAA that the agent that was on N950JW in November worked for me. I could not convince the agent that he didn't work for me. He then told me that I was going to be charged in a conspiracy with Arrow Air. How could this be? He was the first person to get off of that airplane and the last to get on the next day, back in November. The agent said the control tower had told him that a pick-up truck had gone out to the aircraft as it stopped on the parallel taxiway while the pilot was trying to restart the #3 engine. I knew nothing about this pick-up truck. I didn't even have one in my equipment inventory. He insisted that I did. The next day I had to fly down to Arlington, Texas. My director wanted any and all paperwork regarding N950JW. On the way back, I stopped in Chicago at KORD. I had a friend there who was the chief of maintenance for American Airlines. We talked about the crash, and I told him about my situation with the authorities and Arrow's agent. He was very surprised. He asked me to walk with him to the other side of the hangar. As he opened the exit door, there sat one of Arrow Air's DC-8's. He told me it had flown in the night before. The same agent that was on N950JW in KGRR had come with it and was in Chicago. I flew back to KGRR and went home. The next day I went to the FAA office at the airport. I told them that Arrow's agent was in Chicago with one of Arrow Air's airplanes. It was like nobody cared. They just said “Okay.” There was no other comment or discussion. They didn't even ask how I knew or where, at the airport, he was. OPINION: On the morning of Dec. 12, 1985, Arrow Air's DC-8, N950JW was loaded and ready to depart the Gander airport. Based on my experience with Arrow's operations, the fuel load was unknown and the weight of the cargo was unknown or inaccurate. The weather was light drizzle and overcast but acceptable. It is safe to say that instrument flight rules prevailed. Previous arrivals and departures on that morning did not indicate visibility or runway problems. Some surface icing was reported. N950JW was cleared for takeoff and turned onto the active runway. Very shortly after rotation, the #3 engine suffered catastrophic rotor disintegration. This would explain the fire that witnesses reported on the right side of the fuselage. I have witnessed more than one four engine aircraft lose an engine on departure climb out without further incident. The DC-8-63 is designed to continue flight under these circumstances. However, there had also been an ongoing problem with the #4 engine. Months prior to Gander, a mechanic at another airport reported that #4 had serious fuel control valve problem and refused to sign off on the engine. He informed the crew and tried to ground the aircraft. Arrow flew anyway, just as my experience with the aircraft at KGRR. It is very likely that debris from the #3 engine could have been ingested into the #4 engine, or the #4 engine also failed on its own. The cockpit crew had their hands full. With two engines out on the right side, the aircraft was rolling to the right and the nose wanting to pitch up. The pilot had his foot deep into the left rudder, with full power to the left engines. He was hard left with the yolk. He had little power and very little time to do, in this case, the impossible. I don't believe he had any control over where the plane would impact the ground. When an airplane crashes, almost anywhere in the world, a cry for help goes out, and the investigation begins. The NTSB, the FAA, the aircraft's manufacturer, the engine manufacturer, and many others head to the crash site with great dispatch. They look at every piece of the aircraft and chart all of it, including the location of the victims’ remains. They search relentlessly. They look at the weather and the terrain. They look at the positions of the flight controls. They check the cockpit and the instruments. In some cases, the aircraft is reassembled in a hangar, a tremendous amount of work. Nevertheless, we always have a responsibility to find the truth, a responsibility to the victims and their survivors, a responsibility to the aviation community, and to the next passenger. We create an awareness in manufacturing and operations that makes the industry better and safer. All of us have watched the news too many times and seen the relentless searches being conducted. We watch........and we wonder........why...... why did we not do the same at Gander? Why did we not find truth? Why do we not have the answers? So, sadly we wait as they drift farther away, as the evidence deteriorates, and the last witnesses die. In February of 2005 I wrote the following on the Sanford.org website: “The tragic loss at Gander is certainly something that still needs to be looked into. "Gander: The Untold Story" has become a stopping place for many that are seeking the truth. I'm sure, to most, that it is convenient to read and imagine or, in some cases, even believe. When our government is involved in something like this, people tend to thrive on conspiracy theories. The first story is told, and anything said to suggest that it is wrong is considered to be another conspiracy to cover up the first.  I feel badly for the families that have suffered over the years. They deserve to have answers to their questions, and I feel sure that our government has let them believe anything that has been written or reported. I say this because I don't buy any of what has been reported or written. I was familiar with DC-8-63, N950JW. It was a flying death trap. I worked this aircraft about a month prior to Gander. I knew that it was doomed but kept my mouth shut in the interest of corporate greed. I have regretted this for the last 19 years. I have spent years doing research on this accident. I have talked to others that have done the same. I have also interviewed people that had flown on this aircraft on its last flight before Gander. We all agree on the same answer. Whether or not Col. North was carrying on a covert operation has nothing to do with why this happened. If there is a cover up, it is to keep the American public from finding out that our government used a negligent charter operator to carry our troops. I somehow doubt that many will have interest in this. It may not seem as intriguing or as exciting as covert operations, special forces, bomb theories, etc. However, it lays the blame exactly where it belong: with the U.S. Government. N950JW was a maintenance nightmare and was allowed to keep flying, even after previous and serious incidents indicated it was in bad need of repair. No one cared.” In the final analysis, the “Pilot in Command” is responsible for the safety of his aircraft and the souls on board. Passengers and crew members put their trust in him. They have a right to assume that they are in the hands of a well-trained and disciplined professional. They have a right to assume they are safe. This was not the case at Gander. It was not the case at Grand Rapids. The captains in both cases knowingly elected to fly an unsafe airplane. This speaks to the culture of the whole airline. In Grand Rapids, Arrow Air's pilot knowingly endangered the lives of about one hundred U.S. Marines and his crew. In Gander the result of the negligent decision by the captain to fly an unsafe aircraft caused the death of 256 other people in the worst aviation accident in the history of Canadian aviation. However, let us not forget the culpability of the United States government. Who is responsible for the oversight of air charter operators carrying our troops? How could it possibly be that Arrow Air could continue to operate with poorly trained crews and unsafe equipment? Arrow Air's negligence was no secret in the airline community. We all knew how dangerous their operations were. Why didn't our government know? Or did they? Ira Richardson from USA wrote on November 12. 2015 at 7:18 p.m. Colonel Brett G. Sylvia Commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team and Command Sergeant Major John A. Brady Command Sergeant Major, 2nd Brigade Combat Team 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) request the honor of your presence at the 30th Anniversary Gander Memorial Ceremony on Saturday the twelfth of December at ten o'clock in the morning https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/index.cfm?i=267452&k=0067450D7E55 VR Major Ireka (Reka) Sanders 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division STRIKE Public Affairs Officer Office: (270) 798-9590 Cell: (504) 338-1799 Email: ireka.r.sanders.mil@mail.mil Facebook https://www.facebook.com/#!/STRIKE2BCT101 Stacie West Ford from USA wrote on November 11. 2015 at 9:07 p.m. In Loving Memory of my uncle MSG Thomas E. West. His nickname was Butch. I was to young to remember you, but not a day goes by that I do not think of you. December 12, 2015 will be 30 years since you've been gone. All my love Your Niece, Stacie West Ford Gloria and Alan Koch and Family from USA wrote on November 11. 2015 at 12:49 p.m. You are not forgotten but live forever in the hearts of those who loved you. Maj(R) Douglas McEniry from USA wrote on October 20. 2015 at 10:23 a.m. I was a 2LT with TF 1-502, 101st Airborne Division that performed the MFO mission in the Sinai from Aug 1982 to Feb 1983. As the Mortar Platoon Leader I found it odd that I deployed to the Sinai with 6 mortar systems and some 5,000 rounds of training ammunition that I was later told to use to maintain my soldiers proficiency with the 81mm mortar. In addition to operating 2 then 1 of the many observation posts in the sector my soldiers were directed to construct three 'textbook' mortar positions in the South base camp yet no reason for them was ever given. We built them and that was that. Lastly, I was assigned to the duty of being the 'push out OIC' for our return to Ft Campbell, KY. This meant I was responsible for overseeing the loading out of the battalion's equipment as well as personnel on each of the 3 personnel flights and 2 cargo aircraft. So at least on my deployment I am familiar with what was or was not sent back to Ft Campbell from the Sinai. I find these investigations into the cause(s) of the crash in December 1985 very interesting. charles from USA wrote on September 23. 2015 at 9:10 p.m. Wow, are we approaching 30 years already? Doesn't seem like it was that long ago! Heh! Said that when one of the local tv stations did an interview with my mom 10 years ago. All the same, this is when I start thinking about my brother, Spc Bradshaw, more than I usually do. Even after all these years, this time of year is...difficult...in the quiet moments. Man how I wish he were here today so us three brothers could sit around and trade war stories from our time in the army. miss ya bro... PFC Luketic from Korea wrote on September 21. 2015 at 12:10 a.m. I am the daughter of a soilder of who was in the MFO. He was still in the Sinia when the crash happend. I never understood exactlty how my dad felt when he told me the story, but now that I myself am in the army, my heart goes out to him and all the families who lost loved ones. I would love to be there to support my father as he goes to the 30 year reunion but I am currently stationed in South Korea. I hope the reunion brings some closure to all. The story of Gander is not forgotten. I hear soilders to this day talk about what happend and go to the Fort Campbell memorial sight. Stay Stong....Army Strong...God Bless!! Joey Sutera from USA wrote on August 12. 2015 at 10:09 a.m. This guys from the 101st were all top guns full of honor and integrity that surpass all others! The ultimate sacrifice they gave their lives!!! Kevin Hobbs was a friend of mine that I had the honor to know since 7th grade.. We knew he was coming home for Christmas but our Lord grab them all and had better plans! His little brother David also died a few years latter in car accident prayers always for that Hobbs family Ira Richardson from USA wrote on July 21. 2015 at 6:43 p.m. As we approach the 30 year memorial at Fort Campbell on 12 December 2015, I request you help in identifying verified contact information for every person and agency mentioned in this report: http://www.qmfound.com/gander.html Thank you, Ira Richardson TF 3-502 david crable from USA wrote on June 29. 2015 at 9:04 p.m. GOD BLESS YA ALL, I STILL CANT GET OVER ALL OF THIS. ITS BEEN 30 YEARS NOW.... Chuck from USA wrote on June 12. 2015 at 8:00 a.m. I worked with Chris Thornton's brother John in MD. Enjoyed meeting Chris at a bbq party. Terrific young man. Hard to get my mind around a loss so large. My sympathies to the families, friends, and fellow troops. Lewie from Australia wrote on June 6. 2015 at 6:02 p.m. It is sad that people die of other's mistakes. Martin downing from USA wrote on May 19. 2015 at 4:02 p.m. URL: http://yahoo.com Yes was a tragedy. I will miss my brothers and sisters. Potsdam will be with me forever because of this. Never once any answers why..strike and kill forever. Martin j. Downing Oliver S. Ewing from USA wrote on May 19. 2015 at 2:56 p.m. I was assigned to the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology and was involved in the investigation of the Accident. After spending two weeks at the Port Mortuary at Dover AFB, Delaware, I was sent to Gander and spent a month at the crash site. The crash site was gone through with a fine tooth comb. The entire crash site was gridded off and every inch was gone through in heated greenhouse type structures built one by one over each grid. There was no cover up, all wreckage and body parts where recovered and then the area was made into a memorial park there after. If I remember correctly all casualties of the accident where Identified by the Month of April 1986. This happened prior to DNA and the medical and dental records of all the military personnel on board were also on board the aircraft and burnt up. This was one of the biggest reasons that it took so long to ID everyone. Ira Richardson from USA wrote on March 31. 2015 at 7:21 p.m. Requesting TF 3-502nd Family Contact information for the 30-Year Memorial on 12 December 2015 at Fort Campbell, KY: The 30-Year Memorial email address 2nd Bde Strike will use for TF 3-502nd Family Members and Soldiers to inform the 2nd Bde Strike Memorial Task Force of their contact information is through this official 2nd Brigade Strike Public Affairs Office (PAO) Staff Action Officer email: TF3.502Gander@gmail.com Please provide information in this format below: Family Member/s Name - First, Middle Last Name (Remarried) name Relationship to TF 3-502nd Soldier - Mailing Address- Complete Street, City, State, Zip Code Telephone #- Email Address Your Soldier's Information: Rank- Full Name of Soldier (include Sr, Jr, II or III & Middle Initial) - Soldier's Company and Unit Hometown We are looking to find every TF 3-502nd Soldier's six degrees of separation: Hometown Parents/Grandparents Spouse(s) Children Grandchildren Aunts/Uncles Close Friends Ira Richardson US Army Retired TF 3-502nd S2/S5 Ron Peck from USA wrote on March 16. 2015 at 12:47 p.m. Are there plans for a 30 year anniversary? Rest in peace guys, your not forgotten. Joseph R. Davis from USA wrote on March 5. 2015 at 8:02 p.m. I posted this on Newsmax, in response to a host of individuals who were falling all over themselves to praise Bibi Netanyahu’s address to the US Congress: Remember the Marines in Lebanon? The Israelis didn’t warn us about the bomb. Remember the USS Liberty and the US sailors murdered by the Israelis? Remember 9-11? The Israelis didn’t warn us about the (mostly) Saudis who perpetrated the crime. Remember Arrow Air Flight 1285, up there at Gander? That was the Israelis, teaching the US Army a lesson, for not kow-towing to the IDF in the Sinai. So…suck up to the Israelis all you want. It doesn’t alter the fact that they’re a bunch of murdering mamzers, and BIBI is their boss. ***** My son was in the Sinai, and it was only by the Grace of G-d that he was among the last of his unit to leave the desert. The IDF harassed them constantly during his deployment. The US Army didn’t kow-tow to the Israelis, and Gander was the result. Joseph R. Davis from USA wrote on March 3. 2015 at 3:53 p.m. I posted this on Newsmax, in response to a host of individuals who were falling all over themselves to praise Bibi Netanyahu's address to the US Congress: Remember the Marines in Lebanon? The Israelis didn't warn us about the bomb. Remember the USS Liberty and the US sailors murdered by the Israelis? Remember 9-11? The Israelis didn't warn us about the (mostly) Saudis who perpetrated the crime. Remember Arrow Air Flight 1285, up there at Gander? That was the Israelis, teaching the US Army a lesson, for not kow-towing to the IDF in the Sinai. So...suck up to the Israelis all you want. It doesn't alter the fact that they're a bunch of murdering mamzers, and BIBI is their boss. ***** My son was in the Sinai, and it was only by the Grace of G-d that he was among the last of his unit to leave the desert. The IDF harassed them constantly during his deployment. The US Army didn't kow-tow to the Israelis, and Gander was the result. Amanda Shultz - Siewert from USA wrote on February 4. 2015 at 3:24 p.m. I was just thinking about my Dad who was Robert David Shultz. Right now I'm watching his oldest Grandchild play who is five years old. I just wish he could of met his Grandpa. I was my sons age when my dad past away, I will forever miss him. Robert Smith from Canada wrote on December 15. 2014 at 5:38 p.m. Hello, I read with great interest the articles on your site. I was serving with the Canadian Forces at the time of the crash and served as part of the RCMP/military team assigned to the crash site. May all of our fallen American comrades and aircrew rest in peace. Respectfully, Robert Smith. Bob Hoyt from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 10:04 p.m. They will never be forgotten. May they rest in peace. Don from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 7:07 p.m. I ETS'd just months before the deployment. I was in Cco 3/502nd. I miss you all. Will see you on the other side brothers. Strike and Kill Julie Lipford from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 6:47 p.m. Missing my uncle today. I was only 14 when this happened but I still have great memories of him. RIP David Godsey Tracy Smith from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 5:38 p.m. It's been 29 years today. My heart is still sad, my heart still grieves, but my heart hasn't forgotten you. I love you, I miss you, but will see you on the other side. Steven Andreoff from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 4:17 p.m. In Memory of SSGT Steven A Andreoff. Everyday you are missed. Matthew S Butler from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 3:05 p.m. So it is again time to raise our glass to our fallen brothers and those crew members of airrow air. You will never be forgotten and my heart will way heavy, my soul is sadden but i will forever hold my head high and be proud I was a part of this group of men. May the familys that lost a loved one get the answer they deserve. I whis all of you my have peace of mind some day. Delta Madd Dog's Brian Moberg from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 2:39 p.m. Rest in peace. Think of all of you often and wonder why the plane crashed after we got off and you got on. I will never forget the shock, sadness and dismay we felt taking your place in the Sinai knowing you never made it home to the loved ones we talked about before you left. Mary from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 12:32 p.m. In Memory of Paul K Fuller. I will never forget you. I will always miss you. God Bless you. Judy Hassing from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 10:04 a.m. Dear Mark, Dad and I still miss you. We will go see you today with flowers as we have done the past 28 years. With great sorrow for me your dad will be going to be with our Lord soon. Welcome him when he gets there. I know he will be glad to see you. We love you. Walt & Joanie Kaplin from USA wrote on December 12. 2014 at 3:35 a.m. SGT Robert S Kaplin Dear Son We will think of you and love you all the days of our lives and when our days are over, we will be together again,"PALS FOREVER" for all eternity. We miss you beloved Son. Walt & Joanie Kaplin Gig Harbor, WA david crable from USA wrote on December 10. 2014 at 11:04 p.m. I FORGOT TO ADD I WAS A MEMBER OF 3/502ND INFANTRY BT, STILL IN SIANI WHEN THE CRASH HAPPEN, I WAS IN BRAVO COMPANY david crable from USA wrote on December 10. 2014 at 10:53 p.m. WE LOST A LOT OF BUDDIES ON BOARD THAT DAY,SGT CHRISTOPHER G. THORNTON WAS MY GOOD BUDDY FOR MY WHOLE SERVICE CAREER IN THE ARMY BOTH GERMANY AND FT. CAMPBELL... IVE HAD NIGHTMARES,SLEEPLESS NIGHTS,LOTS OF DEPRESSION,NO INTEREST IN ANY THING BASICALLY,I DID BURY MY SELF IN A SEA OF ALCOHOL, I NO LONGER DRINK, HOWEVER, I SEEM TO WONDER AROUND,AIMLESSLY, AS THOUGH I HAVE NO GOALS, PTSD IS AN ISSUE, SELF DIAGNOSED, IMISS THEM ALL, AS FAR S LIFE GO'S NOW, THROUGH IT ALL IM LIVING MY BEST NOW FOR CHRIST JESUS, NO LONGER DRINK, HOWEVER, DEPRESSION STILL LINGERS,WHAT DOES SOLDIER DO WHEN THIS GO'S ON,DAILY, DEPRESSION, SEEKING HELP AND TAKING MEDS FOR THIS DOESNT SEEM TO HELP,,,,PRAY FOR ME AND ALL OF THOSE AFFECTED BY THIS TRAUMATIC EVENT...WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO ADD,,GOD BLESS YOU ALL radar from USA wrote on December 8. 2014 at 8:16 a.m. The worst military air tragedy ever and not a word mentioned on the anniversaries, just so wrong. I was part of the recovery mission at Dover AFB and my duty there 29 years ago will never be for gotten. I feel for all those affected by this tragedy as another year goes by without the truth. We will never for get those brave souls. George H. Rimiller Jr from USA wrote on December 6. 2014 at 5:39 p.m. To the memory of SPC Richard D. Rimiller, my bother you have been gone for 29 years now but it seem only yesterday that I presented your casket flag to Donna while in my Navy dress blues. The 21 gun salute still rings in my ears as she grabbed my hands under the flag and we cried. Your daughter Jamie has grown up to be a fine young woman, you would be proud of her. You have been dearly missed in all these years and one day we will all be together in the kingdom of god. We love you bro, you may be gone but never forgotten..... Pam Wooliver - Wiese from USA wrote on December 4. 2014 at 3:53 p.m. December 12, 1985. An untold story that seems to be forgotten by everyone but the families and friends of the fallen. I have yet to hear any news channels ever speak of it. The day that changed the lives of so many. I miss and think of you every day, my brother, Sgt. William L. Wooliver. Tom Musser from USA wrote on October 28. 2014 at 1:39 p.m. Glad this is not forgotten. Prem Raj from India wrote on September 30. 2014 at 12:31 p.m. I think it is a mixture of weight of cargo and passengers on board and the ice on the wings. It was proved in future crashes that even a thin layer of ice can affect an aircraft. MARK WOFFORD from USA wrote on August 21. 2014 at 1:16 p.m. Just wanting to say hello to my fallen friends. Still think of them often. Edward Bardes from USA wrote on July 15. 2014 at 9:32 p.m. I've studied a lot of plane crashes, and this is one of a few that has intrigued me greatly. I did find it absurd that there was an opinion that a bomb had caused the crash of Arrow Air Flight 1285. (My word choice of "was" is because the cockpit voice recorder was recently restored into full working order and gave no evidence of an in-flight explosion.) In recent years, I've studied other airplane accidents surrounded by controversy, particularly TWA Flight 800, and see no logic behind anyone who insists that a coverup was orchestrated by anyone in either TWA 800 or Arrow Air 1285. The dissenting opinion that Arrow Air 1285 was a terrorist plot was, in my opinion, simply an illustration of the great surprise to learning just how little ice on the wings of a plane with more weight than was assumed to be loaded on board was necessary to cause a crash. Tim Creaghan from Canada wrote on May 27. 2014 at 1:42 a.m. Thank you for this collection or research data and links. I worked in the control tower in Gander before this crash, and well remember Arrow Air DC-8s. I moved away from Gander in December 1984, but I vividly remember the crash and the sad aftermath. Since that time I became an aviation safety professional, retired from an operations management job with NAV CANADA, and today serve as an accident/incident investigator with the Aviation Investigation Bureau in Saudi Arabia. I found your web site while researching the Canadian Transportation Board, and you have served as a link to more sources and an a connection to Willard Estey. Thank you. You have served as a valuable resource for on line research. I will be in Gander this summer for my wife's high school reunion, and I will again make a silent visit to the crash site memorial. Your Gander story is noble service to many people. God bless you. Tim Creaghan Judy Hassing from USA wrote on May 26. 2014 at 1:08 p.m. Thank-you Mark for your sacrifice. We miss you. Seaoftears from USA wrote on May 1. 2014 at 7:44 a.m. Ok I feel foolish for my 1st comment. I had forgotten about the Lebanon hostages. Please forgive me. I have been up researching all night, and this clearly tells me it is time to close my laptop. The murder of the people in this plane crash reminds me of the murder and cover up of the men of the USS Liberty, which is very close to my heart. The disappointment and shame I feel for my government almost equals my heartbreak of losing someone I love. Again, please forgive my 1st comment. Seaoftears from USA wrote on May 1. 2014 at 6:43 a.m. I am greatly interested in the Gander crash and found this site doing research. On this site you claim that O.North was making a deal with Iran to trade weapons for hostages at the time of the crash. Iran released the American hostages on Jan 20, 1981. While there were arms traded for the hostages in a deal that Bush 1 was involved in, it happened years before the 1985 crash. Please research your information better. The US government puts out enough propaganda based on lies, they certainly don't need any help in confusing the American people. Michael J Manion from USA signed the guestbook on April 29. 2014, 6:59. Don from USA wrote on March 1. 2014 at 2:56 a.m. Does anyone still manage this webpage? Robin Smørsgård from Norway wrote on January 3. 2014 at 1:54 p.m. The crew who flew the aircraft on the Cologne/Cairo flight sectors reported that there was a "ratchetting" when the co-pilot's control column was moved. This ratchetting was described as a clicking sound accompanied by a soft vibration and slight restriction in movement near the forward limit of the column travel. This information was passed verbally to the repair technician in Cologne, but no attempt was made to trouble-shoot the defect, nor was any entry made in the aircraft log. http://www.ntsb.gov/doclib/reports/2003/AAR0302.pdf Radar from USA wrote on December 30. 2013 at 8:17 a.m. I saw the cover of the VFW magazine of the 30 year anniversary of the Beirut bombing. Yet 28 years after Gander not one mention of this tragedy. I was part of the recovery mission at Dover AFB and to know the families still have no closure due to the Government cover up is shameful. Please know that you are not forgotten. I was honored to take care of your loved ones in their final journey home. Never forget!!! Millie McGuigan-Fletcher from USA wrote on December 26. 2013 at 1:19 p.m. I think of these young men and women every year at this time. I knew a few of these young men as I used to work as waitress at The AMVets club on Fort Campbell Blvd, in Clarksville, Tenn. I grieved over the loss of so many young people and I hurt for their loved ones left behind. You have done an amazing thing here. The memorial park is something to see. Millie Ken Luketic from USA wrote on December 26. 2013 at 9:20 a.m. I was a member of the TF 3/502 and still in the Sinai when the crash happen....God Bless Bobby "Lil Bob" Tyrrell from USA wrote on December 13. 2013 at 7:43 a.m. Wow another year gone by. I had problems with the website yesterday and could not get into the guestbook. Not a day does not go by where I don't remember this crash, my best friend, and Squad Leader SSG Brian Easley. We were in Bco 326 Engr Bn attached to the 502nd, everywhere they went we went too. Brian asked me to go with and extend my duty by another year to travel to the Sinai with him. I was due to ETS and did not want to extend, but always wondered if I had, would this still have happened, would we not been on this flight or took a sooner or later flight? I still put in another 9 years in the reserves obtaining a Transportation ans Field Artillary MOS's.I have connected with Brian's mother Shirley and we keep in touch. I miss Brian and the times we had together and the things we learned from each other. I will always remember and will never forget. In closing, let me post Medal Honor Awardee, Col Lewis Millet's Poem who also lost his son in this tradegdy, and wrote this. "I have fought when others feared to serve. I have gone where others failed to go. I’ve lost friends in war and strife, Who valued Duty more than love of life. I have shared the comradeship of pain. I have searched the lands for men that we have lost. I have sons who served this land of liberty, Who would fight to see that other stricken lands are free. I have seen the weak forsake humanity. I have heard the traitors praise our enemy. I’ve seen challenged men become even bolder, I’ve seen the Duty, Honor, Sacrifice of the Soldier. Now I understand the meaning of our lives, The loss of comrades not so very long ago. So to you who have answered duty’s siren call, May God bless you my son, may God bless you all." Bobby "Lil Bob" Tyrrell B Co 326 Engr Bn, "The Beast" 2nd Platoon, 2 Squad 1982-1985 Robyn Stack from USA wrote on December 13. 2013 at 12:18 a.m. I think of my son, Michael Shayne Stack, every single day. His memory lives on in our family. Thank you Gary and Rose Collins for continuing to honor our soldiers in person, on this day. Gary Collins from Canada wrote on December 12. 2013 at 9:50 p.m. My wife Rose and I went to the Silent Witness site at Gander at 9:30AM this morning. we were joined by Glenn Blanford, the now retired air-traffic controller, who was the last man to speak to Arrow-Air. We were the only ones at the site. It was bitter cold(-20) but clear and bright.The flags were at half-mast. We laid a lone wreath down on the virgin snow and took photos, before walking away over the crunching snow. We here in Newfoundland still honour the fallen Eagles on this date.We share your grief. Steven Andreoff Jr from USA wrote on December 12. 2013 at 10:14 a.m. My dad was on the plane, SSGT Steven Andreoff. I missed out on the things a father and son should do in life. I felt cheated for so long. I know one day I will see him again and give him the hug he should have had back in 1985. I miss him everyday. I love you DAD! Don from USA wrote on December 12. 2013 at 6:57 a.m. "They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them." 28 years later, and I still have never forgotten. Rest in Peace Jose L. Perez from USA wrote on December 12. 2013 at 2:33 a.m. I will never forget my friends and brothers in arms. I was in this unit and was only saved from this tragedy by God as he placed me on orders for Panama just a few months before we deployed. Rest in peace brothers. Judy Hassing from USA wrote on December 11. 2013 at 10:25 p.m. Mark Hassing - We are still missing you. Each time this year your brother and sisters call dad to see how he is doing. It is hard to believe it has been 28 years ago that you lost your life. We often wonder what your life would be like today. Kids, grandkids, fast cars? You will always be in our thoughts. Dad & Mom Jim Wassenaar from USA wrote on November 10. 2013 at 3:38 p.m. Hello everybody, I just want to say that I am a member of TF 3/502, I am one of the people getting the 30 year reunion together. All members, family and friends are welcome to join us on the FB group "TF 3/502 30 year reunion". Feel free to contact me at jawass1965@gmail.com if you have any questions. Like a lot of you the crash has had a huge effect on my life, I think about it a lot. This group and helping organize this reunion is my way of letting our lost brothers and sister, husbands and wives that I am now and always will be thinking about them. I hope to see everybody in 2015 Don Garrett from USA wrote on November 6. 2013 at 10:03 a.m. I cant find the facebook page for TF 3-502, is it in some other name? Ira Richardson from USA wrote on November 5. 2013 at 12:48 p.m. Thanks to TF 3-502 soldiers for starting a Facebook page - TF 3/502 30 Year Reunion, to be held at Fort Campbell 12 December 2015. tom kaufman c/o jim spears from USA wrote on November 1. 2013 at 1:21 p.m. I miss my brother everyday and I to wish the truth be told. I am a former USMC and would fight alongside any 101 Airborn at any time. BUT WILL ARE GOV. EVER TELL THE TRUTH ABOUT GANDER. AND WHY IS THERE NEVER A TV ANNERVERSRY IN BEHALF OF OUR MEN IN 101st telling of that faithfull terable day. tim hicks from USA wrote on October 25. 2013 at 8:08 a.m. I was apart of this unit . My life was spared because of sfc Godfrey he had wife and daughter .he gave me his seat so that I could come home early to be with my son whom was just born. I often pray for his daughter and wife. I so thankful.but sad. Would love to meet her. Because for this I have made my life to be as great as possible yhis man sevied vetana t o die coming home from peace keeping mission. Just amzing to me..mrs Godfrey I am sorry and thankful to you an you daughter.god bless my love for ever Lacey Payne from Canada wrote on August 23. 2013 at 11:26 p.m. Hi :) I live in gander, and to be honest, there isn't a month that goes by when I don't think about the crash. Even though it was a long time ago, Gander still remembers it. David Marsh. from United Kingdom wrote on August 19. 2013 at 12:28 p.m. URL: http://www.tomthumb.info/tt/ Always supporting all those who expose conspiracies. From all your friends at Tom Thumb. Thank you. Terry Suley from Canada wrote on July 31. 2013 at 2:17 p.m. Remember that Day forever Dr. Noel-Paul D. Laur from USA wrote on July 30. 2013 at 1:48 p.m. 256 people died. The local code is 256. At the last minute, another runway steering away from town was used. Also right under that path is the Commonwealth War Cemetery (victims of air crashes) A very sobering, sad place to visit...yet so beautiful a setting. Someday we will know why heroes like this are killed while others way less deserving live on to enjoy Christmases together. May we never forget....And may we live like every day might be our last, too Don Garrett from USA wrote on July 17. 2013 at 1:51 p.m. "They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years contemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them." Don Garrett from USA wrote on July 14. 2013 at 10:46 a.m. I went to the Memorial at Ft. Campbell yesterday, and the one at Hopkinsville as well. (I e.t.s'd 6 months before the deployment, I was in Aco. 3/502nd) Its been almost 30 years since I have been at Ft Campbell, so many memories. I stood at the memorial, holding my grandson, and reading the names of my friends that died that day. My grandson is only a year and a half old, he didnt understand the tears. Strike and Kill Doy J Cline from USA wrote on July 13. 2013 at 6:22 p.m. I was one of the troops that replaced the men we lost. We were not told about the crash for some time in Sinai and never officially that I can remember.I knew some of the guys really fill bad for all those family members it was xmas time to make it worse hope you can find closure someday. dave e from USA wrote on June 19. 2013 at 4:03 p.m. I know the family of spc.4 Raimo K Puntanen jr who was on this flight. His honor lives on through his nephew he never had the chance to meet,Raimo K Puntanen III. Rest in pease Raimo, you will not be forgotten. Beverley A. Clarke from Canada wrote on June 15. 2013 at 5:53 p.m. I still wonder if anyone else besides me dreamed that crash before it happened. It wasn't the first crash that I dreamed in accurate detail but it was the first dream that I refused to believe because this was too crazy to believe. So I dismissed the dream as crazy. That dream on Dec 9th,1985 will always give me chills. How could anyone see that? I still don't understand. I will always hate the word "Arrow". Flight #1285 on the 12th day of the 12th month of '85 could not be mere coincidence. But how could anyone see it before it happened? Is there any explanation for it? R Dickinson from USA wrote on June 15. 2013 at 3:34 a.m. I Heard over the radio at the exact time this occurred in monticello arkansas the soldiers on board~~i did not know what i was hearing until next day when saw news~~i heard them partying so much jabber laughter they were no doubt very happy then i heard very loud pop explosion terrible screams then silence~~before this id heard quite sure communications from ets~~this is only time in my entire life ive heard anything over radio~~ive had et experiences as in communications and seen their ship 1985 1999 2003 2010~~ive often wondered how why this came over radio it did occur i could make out english almost could hear what was being said but it was to many talking at same time~~no doubt it was explosion!!!!! i told many family members close friends what i heard!!! my heart goes out to them and their famlies loved ones~~just wanted to give my testimony no doubt big coverup no ice brought this plane down!!! Nick Wilson from USA wrote on June 14. 2013 at 8:49 p.m. I served with these brave men and I deployed to Germany one month before they left to the Sanai. I suppose I would have been with them if I didn't get reassigned. I particularly remember Cpt Robert King as a tremendous leader who cared about his troops. I also have fond memories of Richard Nichols. Richard and I were on the Ft Campbell rifle team together and I remember conversations we used to have about his wonderful family. He cared for them deeply. God bless you all and rest in peace. Cathy Follett from Canada wrote on May 27. 2013 at 2:46 p.m. I have thought about the crash many times especially when Decemer rolls around. I finally visited the crash site in August 2010 not long before the 25th anniversary. My thoughts were of all that were killed on board that day, i read the many names of the ones who had died. One thing that keeps going through my mind since that day i visited the site was when i came upon yellow roses growing there. I love yellow roses i bent over to touch one of the roses and at that moment while holding the rose a chill (freezing) like sensation travelled up my arm and went through my body it was an amazing experienc i have never had before. I have wondered so many times since then what was that were the roses trying to tell me something. The only thing i can think of is that may be many of them had died from the exposure to the cold and not the crash itself. To this day i still love yellow roses when i see a yellow rose or touch one i still get the same chill going through my body. Just thought i would share this experience i have had. Judy Hassing from USA wrote on May 26. 2013 at 11:40 p.m. Thank-you Mark for the ultimate sacrafice you and your comrades in arms gave. We miss you every day. You will never be forgotten. Love Dad and Mom Robert Finch from United Kingdom wrote on May 25. 2013 at 6:49 p.m. I this weekend remember those that made me into a soldier. By luck or whatever, I ended up going to korea instead of whith A co on the MFO mission. My heart aches every day. I mourn my brothers. I mourn and feel guilty I was not with them in their dying moments. I feel lucky and yet I carry guilt every day. I miss you all and tell you I did something for you. I did my 20yrs in the army for you. I did your time for you and would do more if asked. Thank you for making me a good soldier. Jim Power from Canada wrote on May 9. 2013 at 5:38 p.m. Would like any information on any Military Personall that worked the crash site to come forward if they have heard of any health issue's caused from the crash site including anyone getting sick from toxic waste from this crash site. Thank you. Patricia Shelton from USA wrote on May 8. 2013 at 12:28 a.m. On Sunday night May 3, 2013, I watched 'Split Decision' an Air Disaster episode on the Smithsonian channel and found it to be extremely sanitized as to what I remembered about the crash. I happen to have an old, faded VHS copy of Investigative Reports by Bill Kurtis I taped off the TV years ago and reviewed that today. It portrayed what I remembered about the crash more accurately. I believe there was a coverup and I'm so sorry that the families of these men who lost their lives will probably never know the real reason why. I knew none of them, but I still and will always remember. Jimmie Moore from USA wrote on May 3. 2013 at 6:59 p.m. I remember this accident well because these brave soldiers were returning home for the holidays after providing services overseas for people and countries in need. I hope the families can find peace knowing their love ones were serving a noble cause. As a professional pilot the Canadian Transportation Board did introduce the aviation world to the dangers of operating a aircraft with any ice adhering to the aircraft. We use the concept of clean aircraft free of ice today in order to make air travel safer for everyone. Michelle Summers from USA wrote on April 29. 2013 at 12:27 p.m. URL: http://www.sandford.org/gander I watched this story for the first time today on the Smithsonian channel, I became more interested in it and found this memorial and more information. I graduated high school in June 1985 the same year this horrible crash happened. Even though I did not know any of these brave soldiers or there families I just wanted to say my heart goes out to all who were impacted. May the peace of God which passes all understanding guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus Phillipians 4:7. Peace be with you ...Michelle Summers William Charles Hughes from United Kingdom wrote on April 10. 2013 at 10:42 p.m. NTSB? Whew! "No comment." Canada? Worse!! Shauna-Marie Wilson from Australia signed the guestbook on March 9. 2013, 7:14. Enrique Colorado from USA wrote on February 26. 2013 at 9:48 p.m. Thought about you guys today. Always in my heart. michael redel from USA wrote on February 16. 2013 at 8:45 p.m. I was in 2/502 I was there when this happened and had to bury my fellow soldiers I have nightmares every night is there anyone out there that was there thanks spec redel George Clemon from USA wrote on February 9. 2013 at 12:57 a.m. I was supposed to have been on that flight. I was stationed at Ft. Campbell and my room-mate, Randy Stewart, was scheduled to re-join the MFO for his 2nd or 3rd tour with them. He said it was a pretty cool assignment. I was pretty unhappy at Ft. Campbell and looking to get out of there. I kept procrastinating to go and fill out the paperwork to join the MFO and then miraculousy, I got orders to go back to Germany, which is where I really wanted to go. The Gander crash happened less than two weeks after I arrived in Germany. Boy did I dodge a bullet there. My room-mate Randy wasn't as lucky; he was on the plane and died in the crash. What a shame. We were the same age--22 years old. robyn stack from USA wrote on February 7. 2013 at 11:48 p.m. Dear Shayne, Today is your 52nd birthday, or would be if you were still with us. Terry and I talked about you tonight for quite a while and she asked me why she keeps thinking of you as being 15 years old. I'm guessing that was about the last time she saw you and the last time I saw you, you were 24. I was not yet 50. Your death changed my entire life and it's never been right since. Visiting Gander, sitting at the Silet Memorial, meeting the Collins, the book "Where Eagles Lie Fallen", hve all helped me find some peace. I hope son, that you have found some peace and that you know you are always loved. You will never be forgotten. All my love, Mom robyn stack from USA wrote on January 12. 2013 at 11:58 p.m. Someone named Arthur Dunning III has suggested on this page that he would like to donate to a charity to help maintain the site of The Silent Witness Memorial. I too would like to do that and hope there are others. I would like to suggest you contact Jake Turner, Town of Gander, Chief Administrative Office to help us get this fund started. And, if you've never been to the site, it is time for a visit. I'd like to get a group together to go next December 12. Anyone interested? steve buie from USA wrote on January 9. 2013 at 5:47 p.m. I look back in the past, an yet,cannot process the future! why did this happen. why! why has if it affected my life; not just my passing dream, my hangover, my bottleneck! MY LIFE! Images i cannot place; conversations i do not remember; people that are a shade of grey: yet, old and grey! I DO recall!.......I shall remember.......for I was there. Yo, my brethern, my fellow soul; we ARE but a breath of air, amongst a passing breeZe in the wind. High and Tall; Strike and Kill above all! I am ready now. wayne from USA wrote on December 23. 2012 at 10:23 p.m. may god b;ess the soldiers i was active duty in germany when the plane crashed and was the first true national guardsman to serve in the mfo southcamp wayne from USA wrote on December 23. 2012 at 10:20 p.m. may god b;ess the soldiers martin j. downing from USA wrote on December 17. 2012 at 7:07 p.m. URL: http://yahoo.com 27 years and still no justice..was there a conspiracy? only ronald reagan would know..we all have survivors guilt, and i have haunted dreams..waking up to a fireball..so this is and was a reality check and a wake up call in life..yes we were all young and knew the sacrafice, but not intended for this to happen this way..so yes my brothers and sister of long ago, may your souls rest in peace and god bless the ARMY, the 101st airborne division and yes " STRIKE and KILL" 3/502nd infantry..in sorrow and grief for all survivors of this horrific tragedy..also rt bring this to everyones attention, the flight that crashed was 1215, what a coincindence as the date was almost the same.... MARTIN J. DOWNING Arthur Dunning III from USA wrote on December 16. 2012 at 10:46 p.m. I'm interested in donating to a charity centered around Arrow Air Flight 1285, perhaps a contribution to the maintenance of the Silent Witness Memorial, but I have no idea where to start looking. Manny from USA wrote on December 14. 2012 at 4:13 a.m. May they all rest in peace. God knows what really happened. Judy from USA wrote on December 12. 2012 at 8:14 p.m. Dear Son - We left flowers for you today, clipped the grass, and cleared the dead leaves away from your headstone. We also cried. Wish we didn't have to do any of it. We miss you every day. Your dad is fighting a good fight to get over his cancer and you would be so proud of him. It is hard to believe you left us 27 years ago. Life has never been the same since. We will meet again on the Golden Shores. Watch for us. Love Dad and Mom Sgt. Robin Scott from USA wrote on December 12. 2012 at 6:59 p.m. Another year has passed and I have not nor will ever forget that day. I was in the gym on base when I got the news that all my comrades in arms are lost. I was with them just 2 weeks prior to the crash in the Sinai. 27 years later I still hurt, I still think of all my friends 2 of my best friends especially Todd Yeargan and Mark Furgeson. I miss them the most. If you knew these two men please contact me. Leo Strnot from USA wrote on December 12. 2012 at 5:52 p.m. On Today in History 12 December 1985 248 Members of 3/502 lost thier lives in Gander Newfoundland , may be the saddest day of my career, but it also somehow makes me proud to have been a Screaming Eagle soldier, and to have served in the company of the Heroes lost on that day! D Co 3/502 Mad Dogs.
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