Roy Warren reported that CW4 Virgil (Joseph) Croteau died on 3rd December 2011 at his home in Waverly, TN.  He was 80 years old.  CW4 Croteau served in the 82d ABN PS&M Company in the early 60's and in the 173rd in Viet Nam in the early 70's.

     It was reported that SSG David J. (Bear) Beissel passed away at age 82.  Bear retired after 24 years of active service and had lived in Fayetteville, NC until his death.

     Roy Warren reports that CW4 Richard J. Langstraat died at age 72.  Over the years CW4 Langstraat had served in the 82d ABN DIV, 11th QM, the ACE Board, and NATICK Labs.

     As reported by Roy Warren, 1SG Glenn E. Aasal (in his early 90's) died in the Okinawa Kyodo Hospial on the 3rd Feb 2011. 1SG Aasal was a WWII Veteran and in years past has served in the ACE Board, 82nd Airborne Division, was the 1SG of the 549th and was the first E-8 promoted in the Far East in 1958.  1SG Aasal lived for over 50 plus years in Japan/Okinawa.

     We have received notification today that another one of our Elite members has departed this earth, MAJ Carey Brown, May 8, 1936 - May 23, 2011.  MAJ Brown served tours in Japan, Germany and Vietnam. He retired after 22 years of service an continued to serve his country as a civil servant  and retired from his last assignment at Fort Lee after 19 years.  He also served as the President of the Jesse J. Mayer Tri-cities 555th Airborne Chapter.  Rigger always, friend to all, mentor to many.

          We received an e-mail from SFC (R) Karl Whitby who informed us that CW4 Charles B. Churchill passed away on Saturday March 19, 2011.  CW4 Churchill, 84, passed away on March 19 at Hock Family Pavilion.  He was a native of Johnston County.  Charles, orphaned at an early age, was adopted and raised by his maternal grandparents, Georgiana and Daniel Poole.  After serving in the Navy, Charles then enlisted in the Army in 1948.  He was assigned to duty with the 82nd Airborne Division Parachute Maintenance Company (PMCO) at Fort Bragg, NC.  He completed Jump School and Parachute Rigger School at Fort Benning, GA in 1948.  In 1951 he was selected as cadre for the Quartermaster Parachute Pack, Maintenance, and Air Delivery course at Fort Lee, VA, serving as NCOIC of the Maintenance Phase in 1952-1953.  He served with the 623rd Air Equipment Repair Company and the 109th Aerial Re-supply Company in Vietnam as a platoon leader from October, 1968 until October, 1969.  When he returned from Vietnam he served with the 10th Special Forces Group as a parachute maintenance officer.  He was a master parachutist, qualified glider man, and a parachute rigger throughout his military career.  He will be missed by all. 

     We received an e-mail from SFC Kristopher B. Jordan who informed us that SFC (R) Steven R. Gregory passed away on Monday February 28th, 2011 from complications of a surgery to repair the affects of an ocular stroke.  SFC Gregory is survived by two sons, one of which has recently joined the Army and is stationed at Fort Campbell, KY.  SFC Gregory was a history teacher in Arizona. His funeral arrangements will be held in his home town of Flint, Michigan.  His assignments included the 647th QM Co Fort Bragg, NC, 824th QM Co Fort Bragg, NC and the 75th Ranger Battalion Fort Benning, GA.  He will always be known and remembered for his outstanding knowledge and professionalism with and for soldiers.  He will me missed.

     At the Feb 19, 2011 breakfast, SGM (R) Hebron informed us that SFC (R) Robert Lee (Moose) Miller passed away on November 29, 2010 at the age of 74 at Southside Regional Medical Center, Petersburg, VA. He was born to the late Reverend Edward W. and Leanna Cobb Miller in Knoxville, TN on February 18, 1936. He retired from the United States Army after 23 years serving as a Parachute Rigger. Being Airborne was the thrill of his life. As a result of faithful service in Vietnam, he was awarded the Bronze Star and for his exemplary service in his career, he received many awards of commendation. In his second career as a self employed owner/driver of his taxi business, he found peace and joy. In September 1961, Robert married his one and only, Kay Frances Foster. Their commitment and love withstood the test of time and lasted 49 years. This union was blessed with 3 children, Alvin, Robin, and Tony; and 6 grandchildren, Shacurah, Jai, Moses, Courtney, Aja and Jada. He will surely be missed by all. May he find a soft drop zone in heaven…..“Airborne All The Way”.

     It is with great sadness that we must report that we have lost another one of our Parachute Riggers.  At the breakfast this morning, CW5 Jimenez reported that COL William "King Buff" Foley has passed away on Jan 6, 2011 at the age of 82.  He was born in Bridgeport, Conn., and enlisted in the Army in 1945.  He participated in World War II, the Korean War, Lebanon Operations in 1958, the Vietnam War, Desert One (Iranian Hostage Rescue 1980), and Grenada Operations 1983.  He retired in 1984, after 39 years of service.  His career was primarily in airborne units, with his last assignment being as president of the Army Airborne Board and commander of Joint Special Operations Airdrop Elements.  COL Foley spent 22 years of his service overseas, earning combat decorations and medals.  Our hearts and prayers are with his family.  He will surely be missed.  "Airborne All The Way Sir".

     We received an e-mail from Bill Feasenmyer of the passing of COL (R) Donald W. Kiehnau in February 2011 from  pneumonia a series of complications.  He was surrounded by his family and we have been told he passed peacefully..  COL (R) Kiehnau was a WWII vet with the 11th ABn Div.  He got out of the Army and went to college and was commissioned as a 2LT and was  assigned to the 11th PM Co in the early 50s.  He was in on the forming of the 601st at Fort Campbell around that time.  He was later stationed in Germany with the 11th PM and served as the Operations Officer and later as  the Commander.   Bill had the privilege of serving with him COL (R) Kiehnau from PVT to SFC .  He stated that he was a good Soldier, always upbeat and smiling.  Bill subsequently met the COL again in the RNV while he was serving as the Log Airdrop Officer in Long Binh.  The COL will be missed. 

     We were just informed by Samurai Chapter President, Frank Peterson, that SGT Jimmy Patton, son of CSM (3BCT) Greg and Sheila Patton, was killed in a helicopter crash at Tikrit, Iraq on 4/18/10. CSM Patton is to accompany his son's remains back to the states. SGT Jimmy Patton is to be buried at Arlington Cemetery

     Roy Warren reported, "I have received word that SFC James “Hook” Miller Jr. died on 22 Feb 10 at his home in Florida.  He was a 173^rd Combat Veteran and a Rigger for 17 years out of 27 years in the Army.  He served in Okinawa, Vietnam (3 tours), Germany, Thailand, and Iran.  He had also worked for Lockheed Aircraft Company for 4 years in Saudi-Arabia.

     As sent by loving wife Earlene Johnson on 8 Mar 10, "I want to inform the Red Hat Chapter of the Death of my husband SFC (R) John E. Johnson, on May 17, 2009. He passed away at home with his family around him.  He is greatly missed and loved the Quartermaster and the US Army. He was a great believer in the American Flag being displayed so American Flags fly on his grave all the time."

     As reported by Roy Warren, via Bill Feasenmyer - LTC Bob Howard (Medal of Honor winner) age 70 died in Waco, Texas while being cared for by his daughter in December 2009.  LTC Howard went to Rigger School in the early 50’s and received a commission shortly thereafter and was awarded the Medal of Honor in Vietnam as a SFC.  He served at Bragg in Special Forces.

     As reported by Barry Gannon, via Del Weitman - Marie Cole, the wife of Gary Cole (one of our Aussie brothers) passed away on 7 Dec 2009.  She will be missed by all that knew her.

     Loving Father, Wayne Coker, informs us that his son Brandon S. Coker passed away on 25 Apr 09.  Brandon was a Police Officer for Vance County NC's Sheriff department.  He died in an accident while on duty responding to reckless driver call.  Brandon was previously a Parachute Rigger, earning the Dodge Award and was recognized as the Honor Graduate during his training at Ft Lee.  He will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

     Bill Feasenmyer sends:  With great sorrow I report that MSG Richard "Rick" Raskin passed away on 31 August 2009. His children, John and Patty, informed me of his passing on Tuesday 8 Sept and asked that I inform the Rigger community.  No cause of death was given, but I know Rick suffered long, on and off, with lung cancer and is in a much better, more peaceful  place now.  I served with "Bones", as he was affectionately known, in the 1950's at the 11th PM Co. at Fort Campbell, KY., as did a bunch of you as well. He was one of my main instructors at the 11th Rigger's parachute packing course held in 2nd Pack for all us new guys. I was an E-2 at the time fresh from the 511th PIR and so happy to be there!  Rick was one of those anomalies that you run into in the Army, every so often......he was a Platoon Sergeant  that everyone liked. I never heard a complaint about him, and coming from an E-2 that's quite something.  Please remember him and his family in your prayers and thoughts.

     Frank Castillo reports - "COL (R) John E. Dawley Jr. passed away 6 March 2009 at Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery on  April 21, 2009 with full and most deserving Military Honors.  Col Dawley, Big John,  admired and respected, was a soldier’s Commander.  He commanded 600^th QM Co (AERS), 530^th S& S “Super-Leg” BN ,  and the Airborne Dept. Ft. Lee.  God Bless Col (R) John E. Dawley  Jr. ,  All the Way Sir!"

     Del Weitman sends - the Fayetteville Observer reports that SFC (R) Thomas B O'Donnell, Sr, 78, of Fayetteville, died Monday Feb. 23, 2009.  He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars and a strong supporter of the Red Hat Chapter.

     It is has been reported that MSG (R) Samuel M. Mayfield passed away on 24 Dec 08.  He died from congestive heart failure.  He will truly be missed by all.

     Art Ricci reported to the RHC on 20 Dec 08, "I just wanted to pass on the information that CW4 Bill Chrisman passed away Friday 19 December. Bill was 82 years old."

     Jeff Salbrun reported to the RHC on 14 Nov 08, "Our fellow friend and Airborne Rigger Todd McInnis has tragically passed away this past 2008 Veteran's Day. He will be greatly missed...."

     It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that PVT Willington Rhodes passed away in his bunk at Bagram AFB, Afghanistan on 16 Jul 08.  His death is non-combat related.  He will be missed by all.

     Charlie Watts forwards us the following:  Once again I must inform you of the death of a fellow parachute rigger.  SP4 Jerry L. Good (age 70) living in Hickory, NC for the past 50 years died of surgery from a colon operation.  Jerry was with us in 549th QM CO in Japan from 1958 to 1960.

     Superchief reports that SFC (R) Cecil E. Sprague and CW3 James E. Davis (age 84) have died.  CW3 Davis had been battling cancer for years.  SFC Sprague was a WWII vet that made the Corregidor combat jump with the 503rd PIR.  

     Carlos Carr reports that CW2 Gabriel Caron, a former 600th QM rigger, died in a car accident on 27 Dec 07 in Lowville NY.  This Iraq veteran is survived by two sons.  God bless.

     Fellow Riggers report the death of  MSG (Ret) James A. Green, Jr., of Fayetteville , NC .  He died on 3 Jan 2008. Please remember him and his family in your prayers.

     Frank Castillo reports that CSM (R) Dennis A. Ramos passed away Thursday, 29 Nov 07.  CSM (R) Ramos was best known to the Parachute Riggers of that era as the Desert Shield and Desert Storm 1^st COSCOM SGM.

     Frank Castillo reports that SGT James "Jim" Boyle passed away in the hospital 28 Oct 07 of heart related complications.  Frank said, "We shared great moments at several RHC meetings".

     1SG (R) Charlie Watts sends:  "I am saddened to inform you that Mrs. Sarah Hanson, Widow of PSG (Ret) Raymond C. Hanson, notified me today that Ray passed away before 2:00 AM this morning, 27 Oct 07."

     Reported by CW4 Leo Venckus, "It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you on the passing of CW3 (R) Jeff Martell.  He passed away after a brief but aggressive battle with cancer."  He is survived by his wife Cathy and two sons, Jeremy and Jordan.

     The RHC regrets to inform its members that SFC Daryle Taylor, age 42 died Tuesday, 18 SEP 07 in Charlotte, NC. Cause of death is unknown and as you can imagine is a shock to everyone. He recently retired from the Army as a Parachute Rigger assigned to the ABNSOTD.

     Charlie Watts sends:  "It is with a great deal of sadness and remorse that I report the very recent deaths of the following comrade Rigger Veterans: 1SG (Ret)  Julian Roach,  Gary Roosa (Former Corporal), and Edward M. Plank (Former Corporal)"

     Superchief@nc.rr.com sends:  "I regret to inform you SFC (R) Austin E. Estes, age 82, died at his daughter’s house in New Mexico . No other information is available.  SFC (R) Estes served in the 549^th and was married to Mrs. Kyoko Estes for over 45 years."  Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.

     I regret to inform you that CW2 Eugina Emmons lost her fight with cancer Saturday, 14 Apr 07,  at her home in Fayetteville.  She is survived by her husband and four children.  Our thoughts and prayers will be with them all.

     I regret to inform you that Marilyn Kennebeck, wife of auctioneer and former Vice President of the RHC (Jim Kennebeck) passed away early Sunday morning (18 Mar 07).  There are no services planned.  All of our thoughts and prayers will be with them.

     From 1SG (R) Charlie Watts:   I regret to inform you that SSG (R) Dean Branson, age 82, died Friday, 30 Dec 2006 in a Tulsa , OK hospital.  Source of this information was an e-mail letter from CW4 (R) Roy Warren which was forwarded to me by recipient ‘Aohiobuckeye@c.s. com ’

     Colonel (R) William Pencak died Friday 22 Dec 2006 at his Clarksville , TN residence.  Visitation is scheduled for 3:00 to 6:00 PM Wed 27 Dec 2006 followed immediately by Funeral Services at McReynolds Nave Funeral Home in Clarksville , TN.   Burial with full Military Honors will be at 3:00 PM Thursday, 28 Dec 2006 at Greenwood Cemetery in Clarksville , TN.  Please keep him, his widow Jean, and his family in your prayers.

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