Virtual Okinawa Blog

83 Responses to “Guestbook”

1. Written by JSGrogan Says:
   August 7th, 2006 at 4:18 pm

   Welcome Back Virtual Okinawa
   It’s been a long time since Virtual Okinawa shut down, close to a year a think. Now let us see if the rabble, those malcontents with nothing better to do than spew their nasty comments, can keep their inane insignicance to themselves and let us enjoy the guestbook for the reason it was created.

2. Guest Says:
   August 7th, 2006 at 4:25 pm

   Hello! I wish to thank authors for this site, it was pleasant to me! I hope that the project will develop only. With the best regards, Samanta.

3. sesqal@yahoo.com Says:
   August 7th, 2006 at 4:26 pm

   The Site is excellent..!! Wish you all the best..

4. It's back?? Says:
   August 7th, 2006 at 4:26 pm

   Looks completely different but that’s ok, I missed it! I’m sure the rabble will return in time, but that’s cool, I got a kick out of them.. Was on “the rock” 79-81, MCAS Futenma, MACS unit, anybody else??

5. Missed it Says:
   August 7th, 2006 at 4:26 pm

   Glad it’s back, looks really different though. MCAS Futenma 79-81, miss the rock bad!

6. Guest Says:
   August 8th, 2006 at 10:23 am

   Hello Okinawa!
   I’m studying Okinawa at University and have only just discovered its history;outrageous is all I can say… Lots of love G

7. Guest Says:
   August 8th, 2006 at 10:23 am

   I spent the summer of 1996 living on Camp Foster and workng on Camp Kinser. I was with the UNI Camp Adventure Program. Okinawa is a beautiful place and I hope to make a return visit one day.

8. Norm Stannard (Yogi) Says:
   August 10th, 2006 at 3:22 pm

   Thanks for the site. I was at Torii station in Sobe from 11/72-2/75 and enjoyed the island immensly. I loved the diving, the land and the people there. I hope to come back some day.

9. klance Says:
   August 11th, 2006 at 5:55 am

   I am a new blogger… don’t know exactly how I found this site, but I visited Okinawa for a month in 1986 to stay with a life long friend and her family (well, friends since kindergarten, then we were I think freshmen in High School when I went out there…). It was a tropical paradise vacation…for a High School Freshman…Since then, as an adult, I have visited some other places ie. Hawaii and Curacao…but for a teen, with the Military bases and being an American, and 16 and able to get into local bars…I had a great time! I didn’t get the whole “Karate Kid” feeling, except for the local markets and daily doings that we did. But I did love the Arcades and markets where we would hang out with other teens…wish the states offered us the same security and comfort that this foreign country had to offer me as a teen. Best experience ever. I think it is critical for everyone to at some time in their lives experience a different culture or way of life in a foriegn place.
   Kristine

10. Rob Says:
    August 14th, 2006 at 6:56 pm

    Hi klance,
    I too knew the wonder of visiting foreign countries at sixteen years old. It’s impossible to forget some of those early contacts with other cultures, beliefs and ways of life. Can you remember what was the single thing in Okinawa that made the biggest impression on you?

11. Dick Swaggart Says:
    August 19th, 2006 at 1:21 pm

    JAMES MC CARTHY, WHERE ARE YOU?

12. BL Bihl Says:
    August 22nd, 2006 at 10:15 pm

    Welcome back! Hope that your site remains great and interesting.

13. E Roe Says:
    August 27th, 2006 at 12:58 pm

    I have many fond memories of Okinawa. I was there as a young boy from late 1962 to 1966. My Dad worked at Kadena for Martin- Marietta but we lived at Ojana.

14. Jim Says:
    August 27th, 2006 at 9:39 pm

    I was stationed at Camp Lester from 89-91; what an incredible experience Okinawa was–particularly the beauty of the island and Japanese friends. Looking into the possibility of a sabbatical at Okinawa Chubu Hospital has reawakened my interest in the island; just looking over the website brings back a lot of memories . . . .

15. James Says:
    August 29th, 2006 at 1:09 am

    Nice site, there’s lots of great and useful information here. Keep up the good work!

16. Semen Says:
    September 4th, 2006 at 11:51 am

    Hey ..love the new site!!! Keep up the good work. I’ll send you text sometime. If you’re home at any time we’ll have to meet up for a pint in the Crown again. Have a good one

17. Don Fender Says:
    September 7th, 2006 at 1:40 pm

    From May 1962 to May 1964, I had what turned out to be the best time of my life while stationed on Okinawa. Although many adventurous years have passed, my most carefree years were spent enjoying the scuba diving, sight seeing, and visiting the ladies while on “Oki”. Keep in mind, that I was very young and unattached. As a result of my finding someone who genuinely cared about me, I fell in love. Although I am now a devoted husband to my present wife of more than 30 years, and have loving grandchildren, I have never forgotten the Okinawa lady who won my hear so long ago. God bless Fujiko Gibo, and all the people of Okinawa.

18. Tammy Pepi Says:
    September 17th, 2006 at 10:49 pm

    I love this site. I lived on Okinawa (Kadena AB) from 9/95-9/98 I loved it there. I would give anything to go back for a visit. Thanks for the great job on this site. Much appreciated.

19. reinimat Says:
    September 25th, 2006 at 4:06 am

    I spend almost all my time in the Internet, and at my work and at home, when I feel weariness search for something on this theme. Having found your site, I have understood that I should not waste time on search more.

20. George Says:
    September 25th, 2006 at 3:03 pm

    Great site. Stationed at Tokashiki and Sukiran 63-64, The good ole days. Everything was cheap and the people were wonderful.

21. Logan Walker Says:
    September 26th, 2006 at 2:19 am

    Great to see that virtual Okinawa is back. Love the Island. All of my kids were born there. I had the best time of my life from 1960 to 1975.
    As Airman Grogan says..keep it clean and talk about Okinawa and not politics..Yahoo

22. reinimat Says:
    September 26th, 2006 at 1:43 pm

    I ve visited a great number of sites, which I want to close, just having opened them! On your site I have spent all my free time, and even not having noticed this. Thank you, guys!

23. Craig Says:
    September 28th, 2006 at 9:25 pm

    I was stationed on Okinawa for ten years(82-92). I trained in Okinawa karate the whole time. I really made a lot of good friends through training in martial arts. I go back about every two years. I was in the 18th EMS, DET 1, 9th SRW, 376 FMS. I really had a great time there. I teach shuri te karate in Washington state now. I would like to here from anyone with interest in Okinawa. shurite7@comcast.net

24. Min Says:
    October 2nd, 2006 at 6:40 pm

    I was looking for my brother, haven’t talked to him in years and would like to reconnect. I know he is in the airforce and was stationed in Okinawa for years. Any help?

25. Debbie Hill Says:
    October 2nd, 2006 at 9:43 pm

    Hi everyone;

    In the mid to late 70’s I lived on Okinawa the in Makaminato Housing Area and I worked at Naha Port for the U.S. Army MTMC Terminal. My late husband, Rik Hill was in the U.S. Army and a military policeman at the Makaminato Service Area. Rik also was very active with the VFW Post just outside the gate of Makaminato Service area. I was very nicely surprised to find this web site and decided to take the virtual tour to see how everythings have changed. I am living in Kansas now and I am still active with the LAVFW here.

    pntopny@sbcglobal.net

26. Bill French Says:
    October 4th, 2006 at 9:04 pm

    3rd FSR Camp Sukiran Okinawa

    I was stationed at Camp Sukiran with the USMC 3rd Force Service Regiment from April 1963 until June of 1964. One hell of an year, especially down at the EM club at the bottom of the hill. Any other Marines signed in at that time ? I would like to hear from you. Semper Fi, Frenchie

27. George Says:
    October 12th, 2006 at 6:39 pm

    Bill, you are so right.That was a great time to be there. I remember the club very well and then hitting the village of Futenma. I guess all the dirt roads and off limit bars are gone along with the one dollar half gallon sake. Great Times.

28. Robert Fee Says:
    October 13th, 2006 at 3:40 pm

    I was stationed at Camp Schwab in the mid 70’s…I have alot of good and bad memories of the rock…Hope to take a civilian tour some day…

29. BRIAND Says:
    October 20th, 2006 at 6:34 pm

    I WAS STATIONED ON OKINAWA FROM 1/77 TO 6/77 TDY FROM FORT EUSTIS VIRGINIA. I WAS
    WITH THE 155 TRANS COMPANY 1ST SHIP PLATOON,WE WERE SENT THERE TO BREAK A STEVEADOR
    STRIKE I WORKED AT NAHA PORT AND TENGAN PIER I WAS ONLY 18 SO I WASENT MARRIED BUT NO ONE
    WAS ALLOWED TO BRING THEIR DEPENDANTS DUE TO US BEING THERE TDY STATUS, WE WERE PRETTY
    ROWDY WE USED TO GO TO BC STREET AND ALOT OF THE BLACK GUYS WOULD GO TO THE BOTTOM BUT
    THE WHITE GUYS WERN’T ALLOWED TO GO THERE. IF THER WASENT A SHIP IN PORT WE WOULD HAVE TO TAKE TOURS TO SUISIDE CLIFFS AND BOTANIC GARDENS TO KEEP US OCCUPIED. BEFORE WE LEFT WE HAD THIS BIG PARTY A SOME RESORT I FORGET THE NAME BUT HAVE SOME PICTURES. ANYWAY HAD SOME GOOD TIMES AND MET SOME GOOD FRIENDS.

30. Dan Nichols Says:
    October 20th, 2006 at 11:05 pm

    The years my family and I spent on Okinawa were among the most wonderful that we knew. The loveliness
    of the islands and the friendliness of her people made a lasting impression. We miss Okinawa.

31. jack Says:
    October 24th, 2006 at 7:52 am

    I was on Okinawa in the late 80’s. I loved the people and the culture. I lived off base in Ojana. I was one of the best places I ever was.
    Jack D

32. RWinger Says:
    October 25th, 2006 at 8:12 am

    Great site!!! But whatever happened to Swaggart, McCarthy and Felix?

33. gwhitehall Says:
    October 26th, 2006 at 8:48 am

    I saw BC st change in the time I was there. I remember we all would play a game of getting one drink at evey bar and would see who made it the furthest down one side of the street back in 84. When I fist got there it was hard to do on one side. In 87 it was easy to go up and down the street a few times on both sides. Changed to a one way street too.

34. deflood Says:
    October 27th, 2006 at 12:05 pm

    Loved Okinawa whish I could go back. I was stationed in Naha Wheel from 1968 thru 1970. Loved Naha City and volunteered at USO. There was a town called Nahanue (can’t spell) witth all the bars.

35. BCST1963 Says:
    November 13th, 2006 at 3:55 pm

    Stationed at Sukiran (3rd FSR) in ‘63-’64. Returned in ‘65 and was stationed at Camp Hansen briefly before transfer of 3rd Division to Vietnam. Returned in transit in ‘66. Spent many hours/nights on B.C. Street, mostly at U.S. Club & Restaurant. Although, I paid visits to Club Manhatten and others. Left service in fall of ‘66 and started college career–bachelor’s in speech & drama, master’s in journalism, and doctorate in adult education. Recently, completed novel entitled (what else?), “B. C. STREET.” Young, naive GI falls in love, gets dumped, doesn’t get over it, stumbles into series of misadventures. Story, set in early ’60s, has undercurrent theme of “Okinawan issues,” with background of U.S. governance (remember “Short Paul” Carraway?). Book deals with the difficulty of staying true to one’s beliefs and virtues while being sworn to uphold demands of loyalty and patriotism.

    Yes, I’m aware of the many changes on Okinawa, including the renaming of B. C. Street to Chou Park Avenune, closing of clubs, opening of tourist shops, etc. (Sukiran to Zukiran to Foster); however, I thought it would be interesting to share with others what it was like on Okinawa in the ’60s. I’m currently sending query letter and synopsis to literary agents throughout U.S., U.K., Canada, and northern Ireland. Hope to have book published sometime next year. Chalmers Johnson, best-selling author (”Sorrows of Empire,” “Blowback”) after reading synopsis, sample chapter and epilogue, wrote: ” . . . terrific. Your content is really very good, reminiscent of Michener’s “Sayonara.” Naturally, I’m humbled by such praise. I hope the story lives up to Dr. Johnson’s kind remarks. I’ve tried to cover the whole of the Okinawan experience as most GIs knew it, from short-times to s’koshi cabs, opiated-aspirin to habu sake, Highway 1 to 4 Corners, etc., etc. Please keep an eye out for it.

    I will be glad to correspond with anyone who cares to discuss his or her Okinawan experience.

    E. A. Cooper
    edcooper_edd@netzero.com

36. mcconohy Says:
    November 16th, 2006 at 8:04 am

    Am wondering what sukuran base looks like now. Was stationed there from 6-62 to 6-63 was in the household goods section of transportation. Would like to find D.G.Ball of Minnesota or T.T. Fralic of Alabama if there still around. Like your web site. If I can get up on this computer stuff. thanks
    doug mcconohy ft. smith, ar. originally from eastern Iowa.

37. Larryh320 Says:
    November 26th, 2006 at 11:00 pm

    I was with the Military Police at Sukiran from 1962 to 1964. As a draftee, I hated the army and thought it was the worst time of my life. Now, more than 40 years later, I look on it as the good old days. Go figure.

38. phillip herron Says:
    December 6th, 2006 at 12:14 am

    I met alot of people while at Kadena. I was pretty wild then …1986 til 1988.. but I managed to survive . I wish I would have done more good things for the island while I had the chance but I guess I will never return. If any of you SPC”S remember me , then Aiman Herron , please reply . Twenty years…seems like yesterday some times and then ….some times it seems like it never happened.
    Thanks SSgt Carlotti for believing me . TDY Australia was great !! What ever happened to ..Yonce…Pogue…. Baker….Stutts and his buddy Jeff from Alabama ? And many thanks to Sgt Stone for teaching me to scuba dive. Oh …and Dan Gomez , you are probably still in the Air Force…you were good at everything. Got to go for now ,
    Herron

39. desertviking Says:
    December 11th, 2006 at 12:10 am

    Glad to see the guestbook is back after all the turmoil of past years. Three tours in Okinawa has left me with the knowledge that it is one of the best spots on the planet to put your sea bag down for awhile. Perhaps, time permitting, I might return to this pearl of the Pacific in the future to see old haunts and revive old memories.
    John E. Kraft

40. 808_soljah Says:
    December 13th, 2006 at 11:49 am

    I’ll be stationed at Kadena AB as my next duty station and being from Hawaii, I grew up around a lot of Japanese things. I’m really looking foward to my upcoming tour since I respect and admire the Japanese people and their culture above all else.

41. William Wells Says:
    December 14th, 2006 at 4:30 pm

    Was on the Rock twice! 1961 to 1964 and went to Naha Elementary. Lived in the Naha area just outside the west gate. Came back in 1968 to 1969 and was supposed to graduate from Kubasaki High .. class of ‘70 but father was is USAF and got transfered to Langley AFB so that’s where my family ended up. Would love to hear from anyone that might remeber me. Also would love to hear from “Akaboo” you know who you are Diane. Also Susan McKinley and George Ann Long.

42. robertfelt Says:
    December 20th, 2006 at 8:49 pm

    Hi! My name is Robert Felt and I was stationed at Torii Station from 2002-2006. I was the Army’s EO Advisor and loved every minute of it. I had a lot of great memories of Okinawa but for my personal one was when I accompished before I retired to climb Mount Fuji. Other than being stationed for one year in Egypt I believe that being stationed in Okinawa was the best assignment I ever had…

    Take Care

    Happy Holidays

43. Troop 1 BSA Says:
    January 4th, 2007 at 2:35 pm

    I was on Okinawa between 1965 and 1967. I am looking for any Scouts or Leaders from Troop 1 or any other scout troop at that time. The time on the island was devided between scouting and serving with the US Army at STRATCOM. Hope to return soon for a visit. Happy New Year to all. John F.

44. Troop 1 BSA Says:
    January 4th, 2007 at 2:36 pm

    Feel free to email me at TRP57@aol.com. Thanks.

45. johnny mosley Says:
    January 5th, 2007 at 12:58 pm

    we were at torii station form 70-72 loved the island and the people would like very much to visit one day.would like to hear from the guys at co a . email @jlo714@verizon.net

46. john habeck Says:
    January 5th, 2007 at 5:43 pm

    I left korea in 1954 went to okinawa to kedena air base with 808th skiwaff BN. it was like going from hell

    in to heaven it was the best duty any where.

    john habeck manitowoc wi usa

47. paul Says:
    January 11th, 2007 at 10:34 am

    HELLO, I HOPE THAT KOTANI,CHIEKO READS THIS AND LEAVES A MESSAGE FOR ME, THIS IS PAUL M. I’VE MISSED YOU! PLEASE RESPOND, THANK YOU!

48. falseProphet Says:
    January 12th, 2007 at 6:24 pm

    Takako Haemoto: I am so sorry I was such a jerk, I am so embarrassed about my awful behavior that drove you away, there are really no words. You should have let me break your heart that day in Naha when I tried to leave you, it would have been better for both of us. Somehow, even then, I knew it would not work, then we would both only have lovely memories, I of the sweet girl you will always be, and you of that naive American boy you loved…before he changed into a jerk. But I couldn’t do it, the tears in your eyes, I wasn’t strong enough, that is not an excuse for what I did, but I wish I had been.
    I hope you found happiness. I will always love you.
    John

49. falseProphet Says:
    January 16th, 2007 at 12:46 pm

    Takako Haemoto: I am sorry about everything, what I did is unforgivable, you should have let me break up with you that day in Naha, then we would have only been left with good memories, but I wasn’t strong enough.
    -John

50. heart of texas Says:
    January 22nd, 2007 at 12:15 am

    heart of texas says:

    way station on okinawa from jan 66 to may 68…son born in 67 at army hospital.. lived in just outside gate l of kadena… worked part time for champion productions booking floor shows .. was a great experience. assigned to l8th tac ftr wing.. hope to visit again some time.

51. phillip herron Says:
    March 13th, 2007 at 12:06 am

    ANyBODY out there from the SPS IN ‘86 TO ‘88 ? This is Phil Herron wishing to make contact with old friends from the ROCK . kADENA WAS A GREAT ADVENTURE FOR A NO NOTHING SOUTHERN BOY LIKE ME . HOPE YOU ALL ARE DOING WELL.

52. dravenmaster Says:
    May 2nd, 2007 at 8:43 pm

    My husband was AF at Kadena from 84-91. Our whole family loved it there. So much to see and do. Beaches were get. At those every weekend. Okinawan people are so generous and kind. We hoped to get stationed back there back no such luck. Instead my husband got out in 95. One day I will go back to visit the most beautiful island.

53. Becky Boudreaux Says:
    May 17th, 2007 at 5:29 pm

    I was a miltary brat on Oki from 1969-1973. Would love to hear from anyone who was there about the same time.

54. paul Says:
    May 21st, 2007 at 9:05 pm

    Hi, I was stationed on camp courtney, as security platoon, usmc. 1980-1983. then I came back as a civilian in 1984. Anyone respond to this message if on courtney during those times, or at mac t. I returned to states late 1984, miss it terribly, will return for a visit summer 2008. e-mail me at paulygrunt@yahoo.com

55. phillip herron Says:
    May 23rd, 2007 at 11:56 pm

    I’m looking to make contact with anyone from the security police that was stationed at Kadena from ‘86 to’88.
    I would espesialy like to find ,then SSgt Rob Baker. Anybody remember going TDY to the P.I. or Austrailia ? Playing softball after a 12 hour shift ? Snorkeling….The night I got “the bends” on a night dive with SSgt Steve Williams , Stone , and the guy from New York I can’t recall. How ’bout Sgt Pogue and his NINJA bike and all his women? TSGT Carlotti, SGT Armstead (used to fall asleep alot at work ’cause his wife worked him too hard). My last roomate was from Montana…Ican’t recall his name right now. Mike Cotton(hope you got that chip off your shoulder, if you did , you are probably rich by now. Sgt Stutts…do you remember getting in a fight at the on base Burger King?..Your wife warnned us not to get you drunk. And I remember riding my new bicycle all the way to Naha with some one. Feel free to respond even if from a different ERA.

56. avigail66 Says:
    June 26th, 2007 at 6:56 pm

    Great website! I’m looking for a tour guide or local expert who can guide me to some of the underground locations there, like the WWII Japanese Naval Underground Headquarters, or under Shuri Castle…Any suggestions?

    Thanks!
    Avigail Schotz
    avigail@authentictv.com

57. bigolechet Says:
    July 23rd, 2007 at 1:15 pm

    Response to: Troop 1 BSA Says

    My father, Burt Fox, was also on Okinawa during this time. He belonged to StratCom and was also a scout leader. My brother and I accompanied his troop on a camping trip to an adjacent island which featured heavy rains and third degree sunburn. I remember a man named John Fernandez. Is this you?

58. bigolechet Says:
    July 23rd, 2007 at 1:18 pm

    Response to Troop 1 BSA

    My dad, Burt F. was stationed on Okinawa during this time and was also a scout leader and STRATCOM. He had a good friend named John Fernandez. Is this you?

59. SUMO Says:
    July 26th, 2007 at 5:44 am

    My mother lived on Okinawa as an army brat when she was a young girl. I have heard lots of stories about the base life, the island natives, the food, the island layout and geography, the caves, and the culture. We still have some memberabilia and postcards with pictues. I came to this site to see what more I could see and learn of this wonderful place.

60. rayray Says:
    August 14th, 2007 at 4:24 am

    stationed at naha ab 1967-68 with the 51st fms, then the 374th fms in the hydraulic shop. went back to kadena ab in 1971-78 with the mac unit on the transiet c-141 and c-5s. i remember namanui, used to be a wild place, the piers at the beach and the sea wall, clubs, the market place down the main part of town. i do believe that myself and those there with me and before me were there at it’s wildest times and the best times. have seen recent pictures of bc street and what a change. have read that the clubs are gone and there are just taylor shops and curio shops and restraunts. remember charlie’s taco’s? feels like yesturday, but how time flies. elsanantokid@hotmail.com

61. Harold Pope Says:
    August 29th, 2007 at 4:39 pm

    I WAS STATIONED ON OKINAWA JUNE 1958 THRU NOV 1959, US ARMY. ASSIGNED TO SIGNAL GRP
    AT SUKIRAN WITH DUTY AT ARMY HQS. OKINAWA WAS BEAUTIFUL PLACE WITH A LOT OF NICE
    BEACHES. ENJOYED READING COMMENTS OF OTHERS WHO ALSO FOUND OKINAWA A NICE PLACE.
    THE MILITARY HAD A NICE LIBRARY, THEATRE AND SPORTS FACILITIES IN THE SUKIRAN AREA.

    HAROLD POPE

62. The_Marion Says:
    September 5th, 2007 at 8:13 am

    I noted a post of a long time friend of mine name of Ed Cooper and his article rang all sort of bells with me. Ed has been writing a book for years and he calls the book B C Street. All you old timers will know BC Street as Business Center and it runs parellel to Gate Two Street in old Koza.

    However, times have changed and Koza is now Okinawa City and Gate Two Street is now Airport Way and BC Street is now Park Avenue. Park Avenue has grown up and is now a veritable garden spot with beautiful multi-colored hybiscus growing on both sides of the street and blended with small trees offering shade for the entire length of this interesting walk-way. There are some stores and bars that have closed, but the whole is still a very vibrant with that very special laid-back, Okinawan, friendly feeling

    Ed picked a wonderful spot on this island to be the center of his book and today that area from Airport Way through to Park Avenue is a little city in itself. The Mall is an adventure you must experience as you can buy Okinawa doughnuts and sit on small benches and just watch the cosmopolitan families go by. It just gives me a warm feeling.

    I want to rent a space somewhere in the area and go into some sort of business, just so I can be a part of that wonderful aura the Ryukyuan people are so famous for. Incidentally Ed Cooper writes about this “feeling.” (The rents are very reasonable.)

    I have a home a block south of Airport Way and I revel in just walking the area and just visiting with all the friends I have made during the past sixty years. This is home to me.

    Ed, your book brings into play a feeling that has been long overdue.

63. BCST1963 Says:
    September 7th, 2007 at 1:50 am

    I appreciate the kind words from “The Marion.” At long last, I am happy to announce that my novel, “B.C. Street,” is now available on amazon.com. I put a lot of time and hard work into creating a story that is not only entertaining but is also relevant to the subject of military occupation. I hope those of you who love Okinawa and the Okinawan people will take a look at my book and consider making a purchase. The story is set in the early 1960s during the days of the High Commissioner (remember “Short Paul”?) and the red “A” signs. If you are a GI or veteran who served on Okinawa, the novel should rekindle a lot of memories for you. I believe that my story, based primarily on my personal experiences and historical research, offers a more realistic look at how GIs worked and played on Okinawa (good and bad) and how Okinawan people fared under U.S. governance–i.e., the plight of the Okinawan people. The story has adventure, romance, humor, sadness, happiness and tragedy–something for every adult (rated: not suitable for children).

64. The_Marion Says:
    September 7th, 2007 at 9:14 am

    Ed Cooper, you mentioned “Short Paul” and I know who you meant. I was greeted by Okinawan TV in October of 2006 and I was queried on “Small Paul” but I preferred to remain silent about those who are dead, as they cannot defend themselves. Yet I do feel when the USA sends out a High Commissioner to an “occupied” land it should be required the person should be educated as what a High Commissioner should be expected to do and not have to be saddled with a leader that his tenure be OJT. (OnThe Job) training. Small Paul was paternalistic in his treatment of the Ryukyuan people and he was faced with a island that had been completely devastated and had suffered the lose of 240,000 men, women and children. Know also that Paul Caraway gained his three stars in Washington D.C.

    Know also that I pray the Ryukyu Islands become Independent and that ALL the American military be returned to the States from all the bases we occupy all over this world. I also would like to see Canada and Mexico become part of the United States of North America. KNow also that a Phillip Herron would include Cuba to become a State in the United States of North America and I thoroughly agree with his stance.

    It is time that we realize that we defend our homeland and cease to quest to become policemen to the world.

65. The_Marion Says:
    September 11th, 2007 at 7:16 am

    Allow me to correct the last paragraph of my blog above. I am unhappy with what I wrote as it doesn’t make sense.

    It should read; ” it is time we realize that we should be defending our homeland and cease this quest where-in we have become policemen to the world.”

    Yes, we fought and won a very devastating WWII that ended with the “Unconditional Potsdam Surrender Papers” (And everyone should read just what is written in these important papers.)

    Every thing we won the hard way by our military was immediately undone by our politicians. We ousted Japan from Formosa and gave it back to the Taiwanese and then our politicians entered the picture and two years later gave it to the Nationalist Chinese.

    We returned Korea to the Koreans and then embroilrd ourselves in a civil war between the North and the South Koreans and 57 years later we are still there.

    We returned the Ryukyu Islands to the Ryukyuans and then President Nixon met with PM Sato and Unconstitutionally gave the Ryukyus back to Japan in 1972.

    How does one explain this to those who fought and “died” for naught?

    Over the past 60 plus years I has seen a rash of books written and I have eagerly bought and read every one that came my way. I have one of the greatest libraries on the Pacific war and I have touched base with most of those who wrote these books.

    I had a long talk with Ed Cooper yesterday and we talked about his book BC Street and Ed was worried that what he wrote was “exactly” the actions and language the Marines made their forte while they were on Okinawa. He felt what he wrote might too ribald for those who served on Okinawa over the past sixty plus years. It is the good and the bad and frankly, this is life the way the Marine lived it.

    I am of the opinion that his BC Street would make a GREAT movie.

    Buy his book and read it and then make a comment here on Virtual Okinawa.

66. bjohan14 Says:
    September 14th, 2007 at 3:42 am

    …Thinking about Okinawa brings me to a peaceful center in my soul, my fondest memories were from the time we spent stationed at Kadena, 83-86. I was just a kid then, but my memory is still very much intact about the times I spent. There was a restaurant not far from the “Kadena Marina” gate to the base that had a waterfall in the window, I believe it was a Mongolian Beef restaurant. There was something called “EXPO 76″ on the island at that time, don’t know if that is still relevant. Anyway, I hope to go back one day soon and spend a good two weeks there. Was too young to really get into the scuba scene at that time but I would like another chance to do that. I remember the GOJU-RYU Karate camps we had at the north end of the island. What great times! If anyone is reading this, yes I was a military brat, and I also served in the Air Force myself. I tried to put in for a PCS to Kadena, but I ended up in Tokyo! HA!

67. bethsalmon Says:
    September 17th, 2007 at 2:11 pm

    I was stationed at Kadena AB as a lowly A1C out of Tech School. I loved Okinawa. I learned how to dive (thanks Dave Hendrickson). I travelled all over the island. And of course, I partied a lot. I spent most of my weekends at the Crow’s Nest on Camp Shields dancing to the live country music that was there Friday and Saturday nights. I have very fond memories of Okinawa and of all my friends, those who lived in the Dorm and those who only came for the weekend from the various Marine Corps bases to camp out in my room. I’m so glad I was able to swap assignments with someone else in my Tech School class. They ended up going to McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita Kansas. I truly believe I got the better end of that deal.

68. Okinawa Says:
    September 19th, 2007 at 8:07 pm

    I love Okinawa. I have lived on Okinawa Japan for a long time. I am now going to put my okinawa pictures online. This is a personal Okinawa Japan photo blog and cultural information resource. Enjoy the photos. I shoot lots of HDR photography on okinawa, so any photographers please contact me.

69. The_Marion Says:
    September 29th, 2007 at 11:45 pm

    Ed Cooper’s book is out and I just read it - This is the BEST Okinawan book I have ever read and it covers all the bases.

    He has several characters that old timers will recognize immediately and Ed doen’t pull his punches.

    Frankly as I read about Tim Cole, I feel I was walking in his shoes

    He snt me his book and I opened it and could not set it down - it is about the Okinawa I knew so many years ago - I was put i prison by the High Commissioner’s office and reading the book, I could feel myself back in the Naha Penitentiary.

    I pray that one day the Ryukyu Islands become free - like it was so many years ago

70. gibo Says:
    September 30th, 2007 at 6:26 pm

    hai sai ichariba choodee!

    I’m from Brazil, São Paulo city.
    My parents com from Okinawa. My father at 9 years old in 1955 and my mother in 1960 at 10 years old.
    Recently, my grandnother retun to Okinawa for visit.
    Really, it´s a very place!
    One day, I’ll visit the land my parents!

71. DanK Says:
    October 3rd, 2007 at 9:57 am

    Went to Okinawa first time when I just turned 20 years old in 1968, TDY to Kadena, 4252 FMS (Hydraulic shop) working 135’s and B52’s for 4 months. I knew I had found paradise. Working 12 hour shifts and partying the rest of the time. Gate 2 st., BC st., Naha, Ishikawa, Nago, and everywhere in between. After I got back to the states all I tried to do was get back. After a few months I went back TDY for another 4 months. Got my PCS orders to Okinawa in the mail. Back to the states, processed out and went back to the 376 FMS and stayed until May 10th, 1972 (5 days before reversion). Went back to the 18 FMS in 1974 and stayed until 1978. Somebody here mentioned Charlies Tacos on BC St., that was one of my favorite places. Made many trips back from 1981-1986 while stationed in the PI. Man, that was a great place in the 60’s and early 70’s. Of course some of the best times of my life. I married an Okinawan (note, not Japanese) girl and we have been married for over 34 years. If Rich Coffell sees this send me a note.

72. boysan Says:
    October 11th, 2007 at 1:11 pm

    My name is Ken Macomber, I was on Okinawa from 57 to 60, attended Kubasaki and was a brat in Kadena. My experiences were all great and got by with more than I should have. Ill never forget laying by the runways as planes took off and being lifted off the ground…loved vespas and lambrettas..the 25 cent kamakasi ride..the same sexbathrooms..the oriental smell..the polite people…always getting a gift when I bought something..the black market ally…a 30 mile bus ride to school…being allowed to play on war relics…saddest day of my life was when I had to leave all my friends including Bill and George Guidish, Harold Penn, Bill Evans, Andy Clyde Butler, Ann Connely, Sheri Huffman, Twyla MaClue, Kenny Wong, Sonny and Gail Marchant, Bucky Tillery, Clive Magraw, and all others who knew me. I have a sister Barbara who attended Kubasaki. We are both doing fine in Huntsville, Alabama, Our sponser , Frank is still alive at age 94. I left Okinawa but Okinawa Never left me, I love that little island. Would love to hear from others that understand the above. Kenny

73. The_Marion Says:
    October 15th, 2007 at 9:35 pm

    I want every man women and child to read the following as it tells you the why. where and how we are in the mess we are in……………. Click on the URL below……………..

    http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20071008a2.html

    read it and if you want to join with me to give back the Ryukyu Islands to the Ryukyuans let me know my e-mail is mwsteele@neteze.com…………..I love these fine people.

74. The_Marion Says:
    October 18th, 2007 at 6:52 am

    In my last offering, I included my e-mail address and I did receive letters from persons who were stationed on Okinawa and they expressed their love for the Okinawan way of life and for these wonderful people - they also expressed how difficult to blog on Virtual Okinawa — seems they want to express their feeling, but once the find Virtual Okinawa they are faced with a foreboding bank of choices and they have to wend their way into the maze to see if they can find a place to write down their thoughts.

    I make mention of this as I hope the moderators of this website can weed out the troublemakers, but also find a way to make it easier for those formerly stationed on Okinawa to re-join with others to express their feelings reference to what was a high point in their lives.

    Yes, I remember when this site was literally destroyed by narrow-minded bigots and we certainly don’t want to go back to this, but I ask if there could be a route, plainly marked, through to the “guest-book” section and again yes this should be begin with identification and a password.

    However, I entered Virtual Okinawa to blog about a book entitled Client State, written by a Gavan McCormack and he wrote about the way the Ryukyu Islands have been treated over the past hundred years and specifically how the Japanese treated them. I have spent the last sixty plus years trying to free these wonderful people and I sure would welcome any help I can get from anyone who feels as I do. Gavan is helping an he is an Australian who feels much the same as I.

75. The_Marion Says:
    October 20th, 2007 at 10:01 am

    I posted a blog in the Okinawa Blog section of Virtual Okinawa and it was utterly ineffective, so I will try again here in the guestbook area.

    http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20071008a2.html

    This is a letter that confirms a Okinawa secret pact that shows the Reversion was a ploy to have the Ryukyu Islands returned to Japan.

    If you can’t open it, write me (mwsteele@neteze,com) and I will FAX you the letter; if you give me a FAX address. This is one of the most important letters you will ever read about the status of the present Ryukyu Islands

76. The_Marion Says:
    October 20th, 2007 at 10:43 am

    I am very active 87 years old and many are surprised at my get up and go attitude, but those who visit with me at my home in North San Juan, California or my home in Uechi, Okinawa, they meet my wife Toki who is a wonderful Ryukyuan lady-love of the past 41 years, who fills me withe same foods that are responsible for the long life of the Ryukyuan people. Fish, yaki-soba, or my favorite soba soup loaded with vegetables.

    Thhat’s enough for awhile and I close with the message _ “spread the word!”

77. vato-mario Says:
    October 24th, 2007 at 4:55 am

    What a cool site. The memories I have from that time in my life I hope will never leave me. I was stationed at Kinser from March 89 to March 90. 3rd FSSG Com Co. What a great time I had there. “They” told me when I got off the bird at Kadena that you’ll either become a Barracks Rat, a Jock, or an Alchoholic. Well noway was B.R. going to happen. I wasn’t really a jock either, although, the mud volleyball tournaments at Foster sure were fun. Also I want to say thank you Cpl. Yates for teaching me and getting me certified (I.D.E.A.) out at the Sea Wall. Vienna Sausages, School of Barracuda. Enough said. That cert is something I,ve used all over the world.
    I was a bartender at “My Place” outside the main gate of Foster. Skip Sayer, “Master Guns Retired” owned that bar. What a great man he, hopefully still is. I wonder if that Malibu rum finally did him in? “Stoner”, Mike, Todd, Bender, “Moolie” “Cowboy”, the band Majesty, the band Breeze,all the MP’s from Foster all you great customers, George Marisaki and his band. All you girls, Saemi Maieda, Kathy, Ria, etc. all my gang from Com. Co. at Kinser. Where are you Aaron Mckeknie? Back home in Boston??? By the way, Go Rockies. I’m back home in Denver. I just want to say Hi, and thank you all, that made my time on The Rock, so memorable. We did so much there and what a beautiful place we were able to go and enjoy. What was the name of that Resort, north end of Oki. where we all spent X-mas at Jet skiing, skinney dipping at midnight. Go Com. Co. You can talk about us, but you can’t talk without us.

78. The_Marion Says:
    November 10th, 2007 at 11:40 pm

    Moderator:

    Isn’t it about time to start a new column

79. James Bevis Says:
    November 13th, 2007 at 11:26 pm

    Hello– I also enjoyed my time in Okinawa as many others have, I was with 12th Marines from May 1965 until Aug 1966, stationed at Camp Sukiran and Hansen, also spent a lot of time in the NTA area. I enjoyed the open gate at Sukiran. Not all was fun as I was in Camp Kue Army Hospital for 45 days. There were many fond memories which I will never forget. We had a special visitor around Christmas, the famous TV Western Star James Drury of the Virginian and some of his troupe entertained us, I was in the first row with my good friend Junko Ito who certainly enjoyed seeing an American movie star. I will also add that I had a 1952 Windsor Deluxe Chrysler while there , Gas was 17 cents per gal, sometimes only 14 cents, only got one speeding ticket– Thanks for having a place for leaving a reply and reading and sharing great memories that many Marines and other servicemen have. This old Marine has just retired Oct. 1st from International Papers– A Paper Mill in North Alabama and living in Florence, Al just may pay a visit to Okinawa and see all the changes over there since 1966 James A Bevis

80. The_Marion Says:
    December 8th, 2007 at 7:12 pm

    This is the most unfriendly situation I post to. I have had three passwords given to me and it takes 15 minutes to get as far as I have this time. I feel the moderator gets his jollies just trying to make things hard for me and I am at the point where I am about to unsubscribe from this menage and just now I was told I don’t have permission to blog

81. phillip herron Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 11:22 pm

    I’m still searching for old friends stationed at Kadena from 1986 to 1989. My name is Phllip Herron. I was a cop on the flightline and I will always remember my times on the rock. SSgt Rob Baker out there ?

82. Okinawa Says:
    February 26th, 2009 at 5:42 am

    Awesome website!

83. rayray Says:
    April 14th, 2009 at 8:47 am

    the book “BC Street” was nothing but a love story about a marine and an okinawan lady. it was nothing about the night life in the bar districts of okinawa, the riots, the okinawan people, the food, the beaches, the racial tension between the black GI’s and non-black GI’s. it was just an ordinary love story. GI falls in love with girl, girl’s old boyfriend returns to island and she goes back to old boyfriend. gue sera sera

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