Fort Wolters Photo Gallery by Keith Robinson at pbase.com

Fort Wolters

FORT WOLTERS. Fort Wolters, established as Camp Wolters in 1925, is four miles east of Mineral Wells in Parker and Palo Pinto counties. It was named for Brig. Gen. Jacob F. Wolters,qv commander of the Fifty-sixth Brigade of the National Guard, and designated a summer training site for his units. Mineral Wells donated fifty acres, leased 2,300 acres, and in World War IIqv provided land to increase the camp's area to 7,500 acres. The camp became an important infantry-replacement training center with a troop capacity that reached a peak of 24,973. Six months after the end of the war the camp was deactivated.

Local businessmen purchased the land and facilities and converted them to private use. The tensions of the cold war, however, resulted in the reopening of the camp in early 1951, under the authority of the United States Air Force. At the installation, then named Wolters Air Force Base, was housed the newly formed Aviation Engineer Force. Special-category army and air force personnel were trained there.

In September 1956 the base became the Primary Helicopter Center directed by the United States Army. In June 1963 it was renamed Fort Wolters. At the time all army rotary-wing aviators received basic and primary flight training there. The Vietnam War increased the need for pilots, and the base became the home for training not just army personnel, but also helicopter pilots for the Marine Corps in 1968 and for the Air Force in 1970. By 1970 Fort Wolters covered 8,500 acres and leased an additional 1,700 to help handle the 1,200 helicopters used at the camp. By January 1, 1973, 40,000 students had completed the twenty-week training program. The base was also the home of the Beach Army Hospital, the Eighty-fourth Military Police Detachment, the 328th United States Army Band, and United States Army Reserve Detachment 20, Sixteenth Weather Squadron.

In 1975 orders deactivating the base were issued. Part of the land and facilities became the property of the city and private businessmen; ninety acres and thirteen buildings became the Education Center of Weatherford College. A portion of the land was also transferred by the United States government to the state of Texas for development as part of Lake Mineral Wells State Park.qv

Main Gate circa 1945	Main Gate. . .circa 1964	Main Gate. . . . April 2006	Camp Wolters Entrance - 1935	Main Gate circa 1960
	Postcard	Arts & carfts center. . .then & now	Arts & Crafts Center 2010	One of many abandoned barracks
State historical marker at entrance	Remains of heliport #2 tower	Abandoned barracks	Heliport #2	Area just east of the main heliport. Shown on maps of Camp Wolters as "Ranges"
Beech Army Hospital. . .then	wolthosp.jpg	Beach Army Hospital. . .today	Rear of hospital
IMG_5920.jpg	Fire Station	Camp Wolters Chapel. . .	Camp Wolters Chapel. . . April 2006	Current National Guard Armory
IMG_1050.JPG		GasStation2.jpg	FtWolters_TX_66.jpg	Staging Fields
222838242_o.jpg	Wolters_Arena.png
Camp Wolters Map	Wolters Church #1		Easter Service 1959	Easter 1959
Nike missile in front of the Baker Hotel	IMG_1055.JPG	Fort Wolters	Camp Wolters Panorama	H-23 helicopter on approach to main heliport.
West main heliport tie-down area.	Bed Making Contest	Helicopter at main heliport.	Stephenville Band	Honest John Missile
Dental Clinic		105mm Howitzer	Beech Army Hospital	Camp Wolters HQ
Location where the Camp HQ was once located	Wolters HQ aerial	Wolters aerial	Main Heliport aerial	Service Club
Wolters aerial	courtesy: Boyce Ditto Public Library, Mineral Wells, Texas.	Camp Wolters Map	courtesy: Boyce Ditto Public Library, Mineral Wells, Texas.	General William Westmoreland tours Dempsey Heliport
courtesy: Boyce Ditto Public Library, Mineral Wells, Texas.	courtesy: Boyce Ditto Public Library, Mineral Wells, Texas.	courtesy: Boyce Ditto Public Library, Mineral Wells, Texas.	Wolters HQ	Wolters HQ
	Fort Wolters HQ - Yesterday & Today	Barracks Interior	Barracks	Theater today
Theater	Base theater in 2001	Range	Baker Hotel
Wolters Gas Station	Stephenville Band	Brochure pg1	Brochure pg 2	Brochure pg 3
Camp Wolters Hospital Entrance (WWII)	Camp Wolters with troop train in distance (WWII)	Camp Wolters Rifle Range (12 October, 1942)	Wolters Pistol Range (October 12, 1942)	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 2.46.07 PM.png
Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 2.50.02 PM.jpg	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 2.50.55 PM.jpg	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 2.51.36 PM.png	Damage to TH-55A helicopters, April 13, 1967	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 3.23.57 PM.png
Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 2.53.09 PM.png	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 2.52.20 PM.png	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 6.09.24 PM.jpg	Screen Shot 2012-07-07 at 6.14.57 PM.jpg	Barracks
1941

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David Johnson		08-Nov-2021 20:22
I was in 302d MP Company in the US Army Reserve in the early 1980s; we would go to Fort Wolters to use the firing range for practice, and also did some bivouac there. Occasionally we used the old barracks, they were terrible, didn't even have doors any more. I see the range is still in use today, and have been there with the Texas State Guard where I still serve, to do training on the ranges. I have been in the Beach Army hospital in the past, and the old water treatnent plant, and visited the old Nike site long ago, it was already long abandoned. Believe it or not, there are still one or two in the TXSG that once trained at Wolters when it was opened! The satellite view on Google Maps is very interesting. I live near the old fort, and get to visit it from time to time. tx.djohnson@yahoo.com

Cindy		16-Apr-2021 06:15
My dad was there and I am wondering who the base photographer was so I can see if they still have negatives or other photos of him. Does anyone know who I can contact?

Guest		19-Sep-2019 06:56
Schmid, Jochen I was a German flight student on TH 5 in class 72-27 (blue hat) my IP was R.D. Rodgers. We were living in Magruder 112

Johnny Duke		10-Jul-2019 23:21
My Brother took basic training at camp wolters in late 1944, His name was Bert L Duke, He was sent overseas and was killed in germany in 1945, I would love to have some photos of him at camp wolters.

Roeder, Dieter (Germany)		16-Mar-2019 22:44
German flight student on TH 55 in class 71–49 (White hat), my IP was Kenneth-L. Dowdy, I was living with my family in MAGRUDER 212 ... ???... anyone with similar memories ... ?? ctc welcome: RD.roeder@online.de

Kelly Wilson		06-Feb-2019 18:41
My dad Major William D. Phillips was assistant flight commander, A-4 Flight, Flight division and Training film Liaison Officer, DOI during the mid-60's at Ft. Wolters; Served in Vietnam from Jan 64-65, where he established the Command Control Flight Following System while assigned as commanding office, 18th AOD. U. S. Army Support Command. Did any of you know him while stationed at Ft. Wolters? He was assigned to Ft. McPherson, GA in 1968 where he retired in 1972.

Samuel C McGlamery		27-Jan-2019 22:01
I was one of the first Army members to arrive at Wolters Air force Base on February 6, 1951 and was stationed there until September 21, 1956, when I was transferred to Austin, Texas where I was assigned to the 8th U.S. Army Corps headquarters.. While I was at Wolters, I was assigned to several SCARWAF units as they rotated to various locations on TDY. My last assignment was in the Inspector General office of the 498th Engineer Aviation Brigade. My first assignment was Aviation Engineer Force headquarters, as the mail clerk. MSG (ret) Samuel c. McGlamery

Bruc Carriker		08-Nov-2018 14:42
I am looking for any information on George Woodrow Sprowl, who trained at Camp Wolters in WWII, probably in 1944. He was assigned to 1st Platoon, Company B, 51st Training Battalion. Any help appreciated.

Patricia Neves		29-Sep-2018 16:28
I'm hoping that SOMEONE might have a class picture of 69-29, so that I can surprise my first husband (still on good terms!). He claims that his was one of the few classes that didn't have a group shot.

Scott		28-Jun-2018 16:46
bryanscotthill@msn.com <-- if any of you know how I can find the information below

Scott		28-Jun-2018 15:17
My uncle recently passed away and I am trying to find his flight school photo. Apparently he was in class 70-48. Found a 70-48 a1 class, but he was not in that one. Anyone know where I can find this?

Guest		31-May-2018 01:00
Virginia Myers, yes, the chapel is still there.

Robert A Leuck		20-May-2018 19:40
Brings back memories! 1961-1962 Ops Officer, B Co, 864th Engr Bn (HC), 1962-1963 Bn S-4. Bn was no longer a SCARWAF unit - they were back in the Army.

A. Wayne Brown		01-May-2018 18:12
Virginia Myers I failed to get my ph. # in my previous message. Sorry about that. 817 360 5686. AWB

A Wayne Brown, Southern IP		30-Apr-2018 19:15
Mrs. Virginia Meyers. I have a couple of photos taken of the Church/chapel at Ft. Wolters just last week. Contact me if you would like me to send them to you . I flew for Southern Airways from 1967 - 1971

Michael Edwards		02-Apr-2018 01:27
My name is Michael Edwards and was stationed at Fort Wolters in Oct. 1969 as a snow bird after finishing basic at Fort Polk D-4-1. Does anyone know Howard Jackson, Grossniclous, Delong, Larry Green, and others there that we all knew. Thanks medwards888888@yahoo.com from Okinawa, Japan.

Virginia Myers		21-Mar-2018 10:19
My husband John Myers and I were married in the Fort Wolters chapel April 12, 1968 - 50 years ago this year. Anybody know if the chapel is still standing?

Gene Peavler		04-Mar-2018 17:32
My name Gene Peavler. I was stationed at Ft. Wolters from Jan. 1964 - March 1965. I was in the 330 ASA company. During that time we spent a month in the desert between California and Arizona. Hot during the day and chilly at night.

Guest		12-Feb-2018 18:23
Anyone know a Robert Taylor who was a pilot and stationed here.. probably in the mid 60's

Tom Johnson		01-Feb-2018 23:46
Appreciate it, Barbara. I don't know what happened with my camera. I took all kinds of pictures in France, but coming to Fort Wolters, I never took a one, and I've regretted it all these years.

Barbara Wilkins Morris		26-Jan-2018 05:36
My late husband, Terry Morris, was a civilian photographer at the base during late 60s to early 70s. I just found a film canister with film inside that was hand written on the canister, "Wings over Wolters" and cameramans copy on it. Thought that was damn cool! Have no clue if the film inside is any good, but it looks clean. If anyone has information on a film like this being made, I would love to hear about it! And a shout out to Tom Johnson! I never found any photos like you described to me. So, my friend Victor "Tom" Deese has all of them now. I posted here once on Dec. 8, 2016 as Barbara J. Morris, but I'm not sure I registered. I can be reached at barboh@hotmail.com if anyone can help me. Thank you all!

Guest		08-Jan-2018 19:55
Dad was stationed at Wolters part of 53-54-55. WE lived in the housing on what now is Country Club Dr in a duplex right before the guard shack. He was in the Air Force and a fireman. I have a picture of me sitting in one of the fire trucks rigged out in gear. I think it was for a fire prevention poster. I attended the first grade in Mineral Wells. This is one of my earliest memories. I am now 68 years old and have recently moved back to Mineral Wells.

Tom Foster		14-Sep-2017 00:20
I had a good friend, Lt. James A. Crowley, who went through flight school at Fort Wolters in 1967-68 as a member of flight class 68-510/68-16. Upon completion of his primary training he continued his advanced training at Hunter Field in Georgia. Jim ultimately arrived in Vietnam on September 11, 1968 where he served with the 11th Armored Calvary as a scout pilot. He was only in country only a short time before being shot down and killed on October 16, 1968. I have remained close to his family all of these years and am now writing a memoir about our time together in an effort to help keep his memory alive for his daughter, his grand children and siblings. I would greatly appreciate hearing from anyone who went to OCS or flight school with Jim or who served with him in Vietnam. Any photos or recollections that you could share with me would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks. Tom

erik snyder		19-Jun-2017 17:58
hello i there a library or archive maybe there are pictures of soldiers from ww2 i,m looking for info about john s snyder who has his base training thre erik snyder

Kit		25-Apr-2017 20:10
My mother went to Fort Walters in 1942 as a army cadet nurse in April. Would love to get a list of the cadet nurses from that era of our military history.

Brian Dilg		24-Feb-2017 15:32
Hello, I am looking for anyone who might have known my uncle Dennis Dilg, who trained at Fort Wolters as a helicopter pilot in 1966, graduated WORWAC class DAT 66-15 A4. You can see a 1963 picture of him here: https://www.dropbox.com/s/0q0vpozanyjh2ug/DennisDilg1963.jpg?dl=0 He served in Vietnam with 3 BDE 1 CAV in 1966-67. Received the Purple Heart, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Bronze Star. Please feel free to contact me at briandilg[at]gmail[dot]com if you do have any information him.

Tom Johnson		09-Dec-2016 01:20
I was probably there a little earlier than your husband, Barbara, from 1966 to '67. Sorry to learn of his passing. I was with the MPs. I served in Vietnam in 196970.

Barbara J Morris		08-Dec-2016 15:44
I was looking for information on my late husband Terry D. Morris, born Weatherford, TX in 1947. He was a civilian hire as a photographer and lab technician at Fort Wolters during the VietNam era. Maybe 1968 through 1971? He passed away in 2013, and during my sorting of his old photos, there were quite a few from Fort Wolters. I am just looking for anyone who may have known or worked with him during that time. You can contact me through barboh@hotmail.com. Thank you for any help, and a huge THANK YOU to those who served in any war to protect our country.

Donald Coleman		19-Aug-2016 09:10
I'm trying to get in contact with my Dad. His name is Johnnie or Johnny Alexander. He's a black male that served @ Fort Wolters. He meet a woman name Earlean Tillman in the early 60s. My contact number is 1-334-304-0690.

Guest		19-Aug-2016 06:39
Does anyone know of Johnny alexander, he was a black male. He served during the 1960 he's my dad, and I would love to contact him or see a pic.

Randall Norris		22-Jul-2016 05:59
Anyone remember me? Started at Wolters September 1969. Medical discharge January 1970. I was in the Snowbird barracks for two weeks when I got there to clear my eye tests. Cleared and was assigned to 10th WOC I believe. 2nd WOC was right across the street. They had somebody killed in training on the first day of flight school. Parked his chopper in front of the building with a big sign on it. I remember that. Anyway, glad for those who made it home and sad for those that didn't. Anyone know whatever happened to Walter Olds? Somsky was killed accidentally on a day off at Rucker. Anyone know the details about his death? Thanks for any information. Randall Norris, I was from Crossville, Tennessee at the time. Drill Sergeant Layton was my basic DI at Ft. Polk. He died in 1999 I think. Anyone know about how he died? Is buried in the Veteran's Cemetery in New Mexico. If you remember me what class and number were we in? Thanks for any information.

Richard Robinson		11-Jul-2016 05:40
My father, Kenneth Stanley Robinson, enlisted at Wolters on January 16, 1942. I would like to know more about his time there.

Tom Johnson		27-Jun-2016 00:46
Hi Stanley, we may have corresponded before. I was an MP from 1966 & '67, and though I believe I was sent out to the NIKE Site a few times, I'm afraid I don't remember anything about it. I enjoyed my time in Mineral Wells, and we wanted to retire there, but with the base closing, we retired about a hundred miles from there, between Abilene and Wichita Falls. We used to drive through Weatherford going to Fort Worth when my sister's family lived there, but it's been years since we were in the area.

Guest		26-Jun-2016 19:41
Stanley Frazier I was the LCG OPERATOR AT FORT WALTERS NIKE SITE FROM OCT.1965-JUNE 1968 I LIVE IN WEATHERFORD WHERE I HAVE LIVED HERE THE ENTIRE TIME , ONLY 68 MILES FROM WHERE I WAS BORN , I HAVE A FEW STORY ABOUT THE NIKE SITE.

MRI		20-Jun-2016 06:12
Anyone from Class 73-12 ?

Tom Johnson		30-Apr-2016 23:39
Thank you, Sally for telling us your and your husband's story. I'm sure Keith will want the pictures to post on Site. I look forward seeing them, too. God Bless.

Sally Whalton		30-Apr-2016 07:13
My husband, Joseph C. Whalton, was at Camp Wolters for three months - in 1942 for his basic training. I took the bus to be with him, rented a room in Mineral Wells - above a store - for four dollars a week! Joe was in the hospital with mumps for 2 weeks but was out by Thanksgiving to enjoy that holiday. He was sent to New Orleans in Dec. to be shipped overseas. I asked the Red Cross for $20 to follow him, but they would only give me money to go home. So I called my Dad and he sent it. Joe was there only 3 days before leaving on a ship that took them 21 days to destination - which turned out to be Panama. I have a few pictures of the parade grounds and barracks at Wolters, very tiny black and whites - and one of the USO where I spent most of my days because they had an old pedal sewing machine which I used. I enjoy reading all the comments you've received. I'm 94 now but Joe and I had 69 years together. Let me know if you would like copies of the pictures. Sally

Jenn Carter		21-Feb-2016 02:06
Does anyone know if there is a way to find rosters and/or platoon photos from Camp Wolters during WWII? My Grandpa Carl M. Johnson trained at Camp Wolters in May 1942, from Minneapolis Minnesota. He was in Co. "D", 64th Infantry Training Battalion. Later, he served with the 35th Engineers to build the Alcan Highway. He later died near Koblenz Germany during the Rhine River Crossing while 35th Engineers were assisting the 87th Division and attached to the 347th Regiment. email me please, just_sayin@charter.net

Tom Johnson		31-Jan-2016 23:05
Thanks, Fred. I wasn't aware of the Fort Wolters Trumpet website. I'm sure we crossed path. I worked for Redder for a while, then Reynolds took his place. Reynolds was a character. He had come to Wolters from Alaska, and I was afraid the guy was going to get me tossed in the stockade - he liked to go on midnight requisitions, and had me drive him. He would find building doors unlocked and go in. We lived across the street from Redder, but I don't remember the address. SST Redder was a straight arrow, and smart. All military. I ran into him later, at another Post. I think he had made E-7 by then, and he was taking the new PM around to other military Posts. The new PM was a major, but I don't remember his name. Banks and I made E-5 at the same time, but I was leaving by then. Hey, drop me a note at my email. Let me know where you are now. I'm still in Texas, up by Wichita Falls.

Guest		31-Jan-2016 22:43
Tom, responce came through as a Guest. Sorry That last message came from me Fred DuBois

Guest		31-Jan-2016 22:39
Tom, good hearing from someone that knows Sgt Banks and Redder They came towards the end of my tour. If you are looking for more news and pictures, go to Fort Wolters trumpet. (Post newspaper) I found some others that I served with. I played For the Post Basketball team, so some other names I found was Turner (our center), Myers (our forward) both great guys. I sure would like to hear from them. Thanks for the Info on Lt/Col Sharpton. He wrote me a letter of recommendation when I was thinking of going into law inforcement. Thanks for all the info and thank you for your service.

Tom Johnson		28-Jan-2016 16:33
Fred, that should have been the 84th MP Det., I had to look it up on my records. I also remember a SP/4 Banks, a SSgt Redder (I think that was his name). Other names fail me.

Tom Johnson		28-Jan-2016 01:21
Fred, I was with the 64th MPs from 1966 to '67. I loved it there. Captain Sharpton (retired Lt/Col) passed away several years ago. He was in bad health for many years. A great PM, for sure. I worked for SSgt Reynolds for awhile, as his Desk Sgt or Patrol Supervisor. Did you take any pictures of the station, or other places while you were there? fadingshadows40@gmail.com

Fred DuBois		26-Jan-2016 00:12
My name is Fred DuBois, served at Fort Wolters, Minerial wells Texas 1966-1967 MP's Captain Sharpton was my PM. Some names I remember--Brimsley---Turnner----Chi Rodriquez---George Malon----SGT Collins---Rudy Gairity---Acosta----Bill Lanier---SGT Dice. I played 4th Army Basketball, My wifes name is Carol and we would sure like to hear from anyone that has served during these years

Colleen Cook		27-Dec-2015 03:53
My father is Arthur E. Samson and he was stationed at Wolters from 1954 to 1956 as Headquarters & Service Company clerk. I have a picture of him and two other guys that we are trying to identify. If you or someone from your family was there during that time please email me and I will share the picture. I would really like to identify them for my dad, he is 84 yrs old and doing good.

karen Howard		12-Dec-2015 20:44
This is my grandfather MORRIS F TAYLOR BIRTH : 1915 ENLISTMENT DATE : 22 Jan 1942 ENLISTMENT PLACE : Cp Wolters Texas Would like to know more about where he was sent during WWII. I do know he was here before he was sent into war.

Seamus		18-Nov-2015 19:31
Hello! I was at the fort in apx '77-'78 at a place called Edgmeade(I do not know the spelling)we had two baracks for dorms and an old rec hall as a rec hall, the admin building had once housed the offices, a club and mess. We were up the hill behind the hospital. We used the pool and gym as well as ball fields when we had a softball team. I am an army brat but thats not why I was at Ft Wolters

Paul de Silva		30-Oct-2015 17:16
Fort Walthers gave me one of life's great gifts .. the change to fly helicopters. I'm now 81 years old, and I look back at chopper flying as one of my greatest joys. Thank you Mineral Wells, Texas.

Jerrel Norria		26-Aug-2015 22:57
Served with the 864th Eng at Fort Wolters 1965 as a 62B.

Saul		25-Jul-2015 12:51
Thanks on your marvelous posting! I definitely enjoyed reading it, you might be a great author. I will make sure to bookmark your blog and will eventually come back someday. I want to encourage you continue your great work, have a nice afternoon!

Mike Rokey		17-Jun-2015 22:24
I am a Fort Wolters Alumni, Class 69-28. I plan on visiting there this summer.

janelle Griffin		11-Jun-2015 00:23
328th Army Band Primary Helicopter Fort Wolters, Tx talked me to purchase to find it a forever home. anyone have any ideas. im lcated in Baton Rouge, La. i believe a Rex Callcut had the drum in his attic when he passed.

Patricia		30-May-2015 08:34
My twin sister and I were born at the Nazareth Hospital in June if 1956 while my dad was at Camp Wolters in the Army. He played the trumpet in the Army Band, I believe from 1955-1956. He was granted a leave because my twin sister was so sick, and we headed back to Minnesota. His name was Fred Klammer. He passed in 2000. My husband and I went back to Texas for memories. The hosputal was a government center, and it looked like very low-income people living across the street. My parents and my twin sister and I lived in the house (it was a duplex in 1956), which is across the street from the Dairy Queen. It was pretty run-down looking when we were there. We drove into the Camp Wolters base to take pictures, and a big lady in a guard uniform, yelled out at me as to why I was there. I told her my dad was ststioned there years ago, and I was just taking pictures. She shouted from the distance, that I wasn't allowed to as it was a prison now. I can't wait to get my mom to this site, as she will have some great memories looking at the pictures, and reading your posts. God bless all of your service to our country to help keep our country free. Patricia. patriciadkrobin77@comcast.net

Peggy Fleming		21-May-2015 18:51
Does anyone remember Britt Hughes (called Huey)? Ft. Wolters 1967?

Tom Johnson		01-May-2015 23:41
Hi Patricia, I was at Fort Wolters from 1966 in to 1967, but not in helicopters. I was an MP. Unfortunately, I did not take any pictures while I was there, and would love to see them. My email is fadingshadows40@gmail.com I also went to Vietnam, the 1969/70 period.

Patricia White		30-Apr-2015 12:19
I recently visited the memorial Museum at mineral Wells, and made a trip through the remains of Ft. Wolters. I did not realize that my dad had been to flight school there in late 65 early 66 until I got back home and talked to him about it. I had no idea until then that of his class only 3 came home from Nam. My mom was always greatful that he didn't finish school. I do have recent pictures of the museum and Ft Wolters if anyone is interested.

David M. Barron		26-Apr-2015 21:23
Was sent to Fort Wolthers in Jan 67 after 2 months at Fort Polk. I arrived at 18, bullet proof, and horney as a goat. I was already FAA rated Airplane Single and Multiengine Land, Single and Multiengine Sea, Rotorcraft Helicopter, Glider. I joined to fly fixed with and was sent to Wolthers. I argued with the barracks Sgt, the First Sgt, XO and CO of preflight saying my contract said "Fixed Wing". We went round and round for a while and I stood my ground, surprisingly. When all was done I was assigned cadre and joined HHC in Academics and was an assistant MOI and then instructor helper for the last 20 months of my time there. Anyone remember a Male Black Specialist E-4 or Sgt E-5 Fultz? I always wondered what happened to that guy. I was at Wolthers from Jan 67 to Dec 68 and consider myself probably the luckiest man in the Army in that during the time we built up in Nam we went from 350 starts to 750 just to keep up with the attrition rate. I very clearly remember the day that our First Sargent Gibson had a heart attack one weekend while playing baseball at the Base ball field. Funny, I find myself living only about 60 miles east of there now as I work for American Airlines as a Boeing 737-800, MD-80, Boeing 777-200, ERJ 135-140-145, and ATR 42-72 Instructor. I have now flown over 86 different kinds of aircraft with over 5000 hours of flight time. I retire June 1, 2015. I have watched Fort Wolthers implode into a mess after it was turned over to the civilians.

janet thibault		20-Jan-2015 20:38
Does anyone have any memories of John Helriegel, my father. We were stationed there in the latter part of 1953 to about 1957. I would appreciate any input. My address is Janet Thibault 2128 N. third ave. Whitehall, PA. 18052 Thanks.

Tom Johnson		14-Jan-2015 22:01
Thank you, sir. I was at Fort Wolters in 1966 & '67, and it left a lasting impression on me. I went back through in '82, visiting family in Mineral Wells, then on to Fort Worth. I only live a hundred miles from Mineral Well, and some day I hope to get back there for a visit to the old Post.

RMSettles		14-Jan-2015 17:53
I was the Base Commander from 07-09, under the management of the Texas Army National Guard. There is still roughly 4800 acres that is being used by our military forces, for training, some of which is mobilization required. I know it will never be what it once was, but you all should take pride in knowing that a few of the current facilities are state of the art. I am both proud and honored to have been a part of such a historical place. I would also like to take the time to mention that I visited the site here recently. After being reassigned over 5 years ago, I was pleased to see so much effort had been placed into the entrance. I would also like to say thank you to all whom have dedicated all of your time, blood, sweat, money, and tears to sprucing the place up. I think those whom have proceeded through the main entrance whether 90 years ago, or 90 days ago can appreciate what you all have done - God Bless America!

Jennifer Carter		02-Jan-2015 01:15
My Grandfather Carl M. Johnson trained at Camp Wolters in May 1942, from Minneapolis Minnesota. He was in Co. "D", 64th Infantry Training Battalion. Later, he served with the 35th Engineers to build the Alcan Highway. He left with the 35th Engineers overseas July 1944 and never returned to his wife and newborn son. He died on 25 March 1945 while assisting the 87th division in the Mosel and Rhine River Crossing and 347th Regiment. I would love to find a roster and/or a platoon photo. Thank you, Jenn Carter

Keith Robinson		05-Aug-2014 01:29
some good Fort Wolters Helo stuff on Youtube.. . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBMM_Ux7Dik

Michael Salvant		28-Jul-2014 20:09
I remember a Eddie Watkins he was fiend

Michael salvant		28-Jul-2014 20:00
My name is Michael Salvant I liveed at fort Walters back the 60s if any one remember me call at 831-383-2523

Jim Gregory		25-Jul-2014 02:19
OOPS! Can't remember sh_t! I was in 69-13 A-3. Anybody in that class out there that would help me retrieve what my X-wife did to my class photos, sqawk 7700. The phone number in the previous entry is RRRReally correct, I haven't completely lost it. Please give me a call 1 360 458 2716,

Jim Gregory		25-Jul-2014 01:48
I was in 69-15 and all my class photos from Wolter's and Rucker were destroyed by a very angry X-wife. Anybody in my class, my phone number is 360 458 2716.

Duane Durrett		14-Jul-2014 21:51
Trying to find Lisa Brock, who married a soldier/airman at Fort Wolters.

Jay Thackston		29-May-2014 14:36
My grandfather went through training at Camp Wolters beginning on Aug 25, 1943. His name was Charles Lawrence Wiseman. If there is anyone out there who knew him or knows what unit he was assigned to after training, please contact me.

Mike Walzel		28-Apr-2014 15:04
I'm looking for a man named John H. Burk #38081698. He trained at Camp Wolters during WWII. He had a twin brother named Herman E. Burk. Herman is interred at the American Cemetery in Normandy, but I can't find any information regarding his brother. I am taking a group of students to England, France, and Holland this summer and since this family was from Burnet, Texas we would like to take a picture of the grave marker and present it to any surviving members of the family. Thanks, and you can contact me at mwalzel@burnet.txed.net

tracey sprenger		02-Apr-2014 22:44
Just found out my Grandfather Earl L Bohrer was at Camp Wolters in 1942 he was KIA in Belgium Dec 25 1944 was with the 30th infantry division at that time would love to find out more info if anyone has any rosters etc ... tracey sprenger

Kathleen Bulkley St.Lawrence		07-Mar-2014 18:37
I am looking for anyone who knew my dad Morton C. Bulkley, called Mort or Buck He was in one of the first helicopter classes in the 1950's. He was stationed in Korea in 1958 flying helicopters. I am assuming he was in one of the first classes. I am doing a heritage search and would just like confirmation and maybe a story or two of anyone that might remember him. He died in 2008.

Jim Godfrey		28-Feb-2014 16:50
I may have found some rosters of the early phase of Camp Wolters. I am writing a book on the military of Mineral Wells and would be interested in any umpublished material for Camp Wolters, Camp Dallas, Fort Wolters and Wolters AFB and the Nike base. Full credit will be attributed if you allow publications. Any information is appreciated and will be of interest to readers. Jim Godfrey jimgodfrey@charter.net White Hats Class 69-10

Tom Hauser		17-Feb-2014 19:07
Can anyone provide photos, rosters, etc. for the command structure at Camp Wolters during early stages of WWII? My grandfather taught military tactics - Col. Thomas William Freeman. One of his lieutenants was Lt. Henry F. Hauser (fresh from Texas A & M). Any info would be appreciated. Tom Hauser (435) 615-7234 or tfhauser@gmail.com (posted 17 Feb 2014)

Tom Johnson		05-Feb-2014 00:08
Hi Shirley, Keith should be contacting you soon. That photo with all the names is a piece of record that will help identify some of the men who were there in 1941. I hope Keith will put the picture and names up on the Site. I can be contacted at fadingshadows40@gmail.com

Shirley		04-Feb-2014 13:33
I just found my fathers service album from Camp Wolters during the 1940s. I would love to share this with a museum or the camp itself. There is a photo of Co D -53rd-INF TRG BN FROM 1941. All the names are listed on the back ! If anyone can steer me in the right direction so I might donate this please contact me at moparfam@hotmail.com. Thanks Shirley

tom Johnson		14-Dec-2013 23:17
Y'all did a good job. I don't remember much about the houses, except they were nice homes. I lived off base with my family in 1966-'67, but visited numerous families living in the houses at the time. I'm surprised we haven't heard from family members who lived in the housing area when Fort Wolters was active. It would be nice to see some of their pictures of the houses.

Herman Autrey		13-Dec-2013 15:30
Enjoyed the pictures. Brings back memories. I was supt. over the mill & framing of the 500 hundred housing units built in 1953 for the families stationed at the Air Base. I remember there were 4 guys, Henry Williams, Pickins, Young and Larry Blackburn that were the general contractors to develop the housing units. Larry Blackburn was the campaign manager for Lyndon Johnson.. Blackburn also had a sewing factory in Minerals Wells at that time.

Guest		07-Dec-2013 03:35
That time ( 70 to 71 ) is getting closer - anyone know John Haugen?? He went to Rucker and then Nam with their team too .

Bob Rings		04-Nov-2013 16:38
Was at Ft. Wolters from Dec 70 until July 71 ( 5th WOC, Orange hats) Tac CW2 John Dean; then to Ft. Rucker, graduated Feb 72, 1st class not to go directly to Vietnam- spent next 3 years at Ft. Riley, Ks.

Txboy713		14-Aug-2013 16:07
I was at the prison they turned into from your barracks. Very crazy place.

David Parsley		21-Jul-2013 15:39
Great site. I was introduced to "Texas heat" at Ft. Wolters in August 1967. There were days flying in the afternoon was not possible in the Hiller, because it could not get off of the ground with an instructor and student. I spent two more months at Wolters than most because I broke my arm at the post riding stables (thrown from a horse that was harder to ride than a helicopter). I was was set back eight weeks while my arm healed. Was able to move on to Ft. Rucker in February 68 to finish my helicopter training, in route to Vietnam. Check my Vietnam website athttp://www.pbase.com/character/svietnam68

tom Johnson		02-Jul-2013 00:57
That should have been "back in April" sorry.

tom Johnson		02-Jul-2013 00:56
Hi Tammy, I had a book signing in Haskell make in April, wish you had stopped by. I'm from Seymour, and visit Martha's bookstore quite a lot. One of the books I was signing was COLD WAR HEROES. I was stationed at Fort Wolters in 1966-'67, and loved Mineral Wells. If the Post had remained open, I would have retired there instead of moving back to Seymour.

Tammy		01-Jul-2013 19:20
I 've recently been blessed by a box of photos of my grandparents (Al & Toni Lampe). They had their wedding portrait taken at a studio in Mineral Wells in which I can't make out the first part of the name of "...ilion Studios" - I'm thinking maybe Pavilion? The photo was taken while they were there at the base in the summer of 1944 and both dressed in their army attire (my grandmother was WAC.) Several photos in my new collection appear to be of the base during their stay. My grandfather loved photography and usually labeled his photos. The back of the frame of their wedding picture has a handwritten timeline of everywhere they were from 1944 at Mineral Wells, Tx thru 1965 when they retired in Security,Colorado. Included in the time line was 1944-45 WW2 Europe and Korea 1956-57. The amazing part to me is I now live a couple of hours away in Haskell, TX and never knew they were stayed there. I look forward to visiting soon!

Ronald A. Schaefer		03-Jun-2013 01:38
I was in the 328th Army Band '63-'65 . The band was based at the Brooklyn Army Terminal in New York. Would love to hear from anyone in the band. Ronald A Schaefer (Drums) email Rolandhunter14548@yahoo.com

marufhosen29		09-May-2013 01:44
Thanks for the share. Great stuff, just nice! Seattle Roofing

Jan		17-Apr-2013 21:02
I attended a welcome Home Vietnam Veterans parade yesterday and it made me wonder about some old Army Air Corps chopper pilot friends I lost touch with after they left for Nam. I wonder if they made it back alright. A bunch of guys from Ft Wolters rented a 'weekend' apartment in our apartment complex in North Dallas and we had some WONDERFUL parties there in 1970 and '71 . Anyone know Lt John Haugen? He was from WI. The whole troop of guys from teh apartment went to Ft Rucker and then off to Nam in '71. BTW Thank to all of you who served in that awful war, we all owe you a huge apology for the way you were treated, yesterday's parade was simply wonderful to welcome back about 400 Nam vet marches, finally! So John Haugen???

Peggy		08-Apr-2013 22:10
I just found a photo of my dad and his platoon - at the bottom it reads 4th Plat, Co "B"' 54th Inf Tn'g B'N Camp Wolters and is dated August 1941. My Dad (Col John Chasteen, USAF) was drafted in early 1941. My Mother went there to get married in January 1942. He left Camp Wolters several months later. During WWII he served as a chemical warfare officer in Italy, Africa, and then Saipan. He went from the Army to the Army Air Corp and then the Air Force. He also served in Korea and Vietnam Nam. He is now at rest at Punchbowl Memorial Cemetary.

Stephen W. Jaffe		21-Mar-2013 00:13
I was stationed at Ft. Wolters for two months. August 1967 through September 1967. 311 ASA Battalion. Shipped to Vietnam in October 1967.

Tom Harney, CW4, Ret.		15-Jan-2013 17:41
I showed up with orders for 69-13 and 69-15. DA messed up and had too many people for 69-13 so I was set back before starting to -15. What an incredable experiance. The start of a 32 year association with the Army and almost 40 years of flying. No regrets. Nice site.

Tom Johnson		14-Jan-2013 23:22
Although I drove through Mineral Wells in 1982, I passed by the entrance but didn't enter the old Post. I regret that now, after seeing all the pictures Keith has put up on the Site. Of all the military Posts I was stationed at during my twenty year career, only two hold dear memories for me - Poitiers, France, and Fort Wolters, Texas. A close third might be Fort Hood, back in the late 1950s - but not now. Some day, I would like to drive back to Mineral Wells, but I know I would be saddened by what the old Post is now. Sadly, I never took any pictures of my time there, and that's another regret.

benwadsworth		14-Jan-2013 20:37
In 2004, while attending a trade conference in Fort Worth, I made the trip to Fort Wolters, now Wolters Industrial Park. In 1968, I attended primary flight training there then returned as a flight instructor, in 1970. At the time, Fort Wolters had a fresh coat of paint, and Dempsey Heliport was brand new. The grounds were manicured, and everything projected a sense of vitality. As would be expected, things were quite different in 2004. A place that had a big role in my youth was now aging, as was I. I can only hope that I am aging better. After returning from Viet Nam, I attended college and graduated from the University of California, Davis campus. Twenty-two years ago, my wife and started our own business. Twenty years ago, I retired from the California Army National Guard. Regardless of all that has occurred since, I will never forget my time at Fort Wolters or the comrades developed there.

JOHN W ADAMS USAF		06-Jan-2013 16:33
MY FATHER MASTER SGT GEORGE ADAMS BROUGHT A GROUP OF TRAINEES FROM FT BLISS IN EARLY 1941. I WAS LESS THAN A YEAR OLD. I STILL LIVE ON THE BASE ON LAURIE DRIVE, FOX HOLES ARE STILL ALL OVER THE STATE PARK AND M1 SHELLS CAN STILL BE FOUND. I GOT TO BE FORCE COMMANDER AT THE AIR BASE FOR A DAY WITH THE BOY SCOUTS. I ALSO GOT TO BE MAYOR OF THE TOWN FOR A DAY WHILE I WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL. i taught school for 23 years after my airforce service.

Guest		20-Dec-2012 16:41
To Mrs. Marcia Sabol Simmons This is Billy from Nellingen in Germany. Marcia, you were asking if the 864th Engineer Battalion ever was in Nellingen Barracks in the late 50´s ? Your Dad LTC Sabol were stationed there. I,m an private Historian to our former Military Installation Nellingen Barracks. Therefore I,m always searching for former Soldiers that has served in Nellingen Barracks. To identify if your Dad was with the 864th in Nellingen, please check your Dad´s old Army Pictures ? Maybe he made some while he was there. Then I can recognize by the Buildings if it is Nellingen Germany. My Website dedicated to the History of Nellingen Barracks ishttp://www.billybils.de. My email address is usarmynellingen@hotmail.com Please reply to me. Merry Christmas to all the Troops from Billy in Germany

Michael Fletcher		30-Nov-2012 03:35
My son recently passed a youtube video titled Chopper Pilot which promoted the training at Wolter and Rucker for helicopter pilots. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wULbHHjJUjY] I had been there for flight training in 1968 and it was interesting to reminisce on events long in the past and compare to what's there today. My wife and I had returned in 2003 and found the place pretty decrepit. The glory days gone bye (per diem was $16/day - more than I was getting in regular army pay as I recall), it seems so long ago yet the memories of times in the past seem to stick with me even tho at the time, not a big deal.

Jeff Karl		12-Nov-2012 18:29
I lived here as a child for almost 2 years (early 1971 to late 1972), before my Dad Retired from the Army there, he was Lt. Col John F. Karl and was in-charge of Financing while he was still enlisted. I was 6 at the time and enrolled in Pre-School & 7 in Kindergarten, my teacher both times was Mrs. Julia Bouck ( I have been looking for her ). My brother who is 10 years older went to the near by Jr. High & High School, and my Mom worked all the many USO events while we lived on base. Our house was 1 of the many red bricked homes up on the hill with a small circular street with 3 or 4 houses on it, and behind our home a few 100' back - there was a narrow stream with the forest right behind it. I had fun while we were there - getting lost in the woods, shooting the Tarantulas with my BB Gun, Swimming in the large pool & riding all the different vehicles during Ft. Wolters Armed Forces Day. I still have a full local paper from their called the Fort Wolters Trumpet, and it is dated - Friday, May 26, 1972 & I'm in 1 of the photos sitting in the doorway of a tank. 6 months later we moved to Daytona Beach after my Dad Retired from Ft. Wolters, where he in 1973 some 5 months later pasted away at the age of 44. My Brother & I have been back a few times together over the years(85 & 89), to take photos of our old falling down home - I remember it well. Thanks for this page & letting me relive some of my early childhood days, I give this page & site 5 HOOAH'S!!!!

Paul Hart		18-Oct-2012 15:19
My wife and I recently passed though Mineral Wells on a cross country road trip heading home to Tucson. I hadn't visited the base since a VHPA reunion in Ft. Worth years ago. The refurbished Main Gate looks great with the OH23 mounted and a TH55 in the works. Nice to see some of the history being preserved. Our old WOC area/barracks now houses a pre-parole detention center ringed with high fences and razor wire - not the best photo op. The flight light is still there and the main control tower on the hill above is visible. Overall the place has seen better days and probably none any better then when hundres of helicopters flown by eager kids took to the skies above all those years ago. Paul Hart 66-23/67-1 3rd WOC Blue Hats

Marshall Green		19-Aug-2012 18:18
My outfit, the 313th Army Security Agency Battalion, was transfered from Fort Devens, Massachusetts, to Camp Wolters in the summer of 1957. I enjoyed life at the base. Bugs were numerous around the lights at night and my pals and I enjoyed feeding them to the big toad frogs who were as near tame as frogs could be. We were allowed to hunt on the base and I killed a few rabbits with my pump 20 gage. We, also, enjoyed renting boats at the nearby park. The folks in Mineral Wells were very nice to us. I especially enjoyed the fellowships at the Southside Church of Church. It is hard to forget the hamburgers loaded with shreded lettuce served at the Dairy Queen there. A swarm of crickets invaded the area in the summer of 1957. At night they congregated beneath the street lights. They made a crackling sound as cars rolled over them. I have been to the area a couple of times and am distressed at the condition of the buildings there.

Merv		17-Aug-2012 13:08
Just wanted to say hello to all personnel assigned and to the Vets who passed through Ft. Wolters. My name is Merv Olive, Class 69-31, 8th WOC. Our TAC Officer was CW2 Daily. My roommate was David Caplan of N.C. I served with the 119th AHC out of An Khe and Pleiku in 69'-70'. I last visited Wolters with CW4 Frank Natale. We landed at the Muni in a C12 and the manager was kind enough to let us use his car to tour the camp. I was shocked to see my old 8th WOC building surrounded by barbed wire fencing and a tower guard yelling at us that it was now a medium security prison. Tour of the rest of the camp was neat. Then we visited the once Holiday Inn where we all enjoyed our "solo" swim (fond memories). I retired in 1995 a CW4 (Safety Officer) with the Army Jet Detachment (USAPAT) out of Andrews AFB., MD. We flew Lear35s, Gulfstreams II, IIB, III, and IV. Army Aviation has come full circle from the early years of helicopters to the Jet age and its roots passed through Fort Wolters....What a history!! Again, "Thanks for the memories".

Barry Ottley		12-Aug-2012 15:12
Barry Ottley I was a flight instructor for Southern Airways 1966 to 1968. I was in Pat Patillos flight. I then went to work for Texas National Guard and 111th Aviation Group. Retiring in 1996 after 36 years of service. Fond memories of Fort Wolters and our experiences there. It is sad to go back and see it in such a sad condition also to think of those who we knes who have come and gone.

Tom Johnson		09-Aug-2012 01:07
Hi Ron, All of us who served in Vietnam hold great admiration for you "Chopper" pilots. You guys are tops in my book! Every time a helicopter flies overhead, I think of Vietnam and you guys. God Bless all of you.

RON DONAKOWSKI		08-Aug-2012 22:04
My name is EASY to remember, so hopefully old acquaintances will notice and reply. I went through Wolters with class 69-41 flying OH-23 Ravens. I was infatuated with helicopters since birth and this was such a great accomplishment and remembrance for me. I look at the pictures of Ft. Wolters now and my hair stands on end, thinking about all those HEROES that went through here for training and made names for themselves. Only a few names I recollect easily, such as Pace, Stillions, Seeman, Anteneau, just a few of those who made the Supreme Sacrifice. Yep, it was agreat time: young, foolish, adventuresome, dangerous -- all rolled into one! God Bless all, those HEROES! Ron Donakowski CW4 Retired

Steve Davidson		06-Aug-2012 15:48
The storm occurred as our class (67-15) was entering it's final phase at Wolters. Recall several days of uncertainty followed by a plan to dedicate the few flyable aircraft to us so we could finish on schedule. Also remember rumors of transferring some students over to the OH-23s but don't believe that got much traction. Thanks for reminding us what a great time it was to be at Wolters going thru flight school!

John LaDue		05-Aug-2012 19:06
For Kenneth Conn, I did not know your Dad, but if you go to the VHPA website and look for Flight Class Photos, you'll find a picture of your Dad in WORWAC Class 66-23-B1.

Larry Clark		04-Aug-2012 22:40
Anyone looking for more information about helicopter pilots that trained at Wolters should visit the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Assoc. web site, www.vhpa.org where you can find class photos, member information sorted by class number, units or call signs.

Tracy Blunk		26-Jul-2012 20:53
If anyone has a father who served at Ft.Wolters around 1942-1944 can they please ask them if they knew a James Travis born in Canada around 1918. He married my grandmother Minerva "Minnie" Polvado in Dallas,TX around 1943 and after they divorced in 1947, he completely disappeared. We don't know a middle name, a dob, anything about him. Any information would be extemely helpful. My email address is ttravi02@hotmail.com if anyone has any info regarding this.

Euticha Hawkins		22-Jul-2012 18:48
Hi, my husband is trying to find his father, who trained at the Primary Helicopter Center sometime between 1968-70. My husband was born at Beach Hospital. Can anybody please point me in the right direction?

Michael Estep		16-Jul-2012 19:43
My name is Mike Estep and I soloed at Fort Wolters on April 14, 1966. I think the picture captioned " Ft. Wolters_Tx_66jpg "was taken about that time. It is the top left photo on our group picture of class 66-?. Sorry, I don't remember the number. I stumbled across this website today. What a nostalgic morning I have had. Thanks to whomever is responsible.

Kenneth Conn		15-Jul-2012 03:16
I was born at Beach Hospital while my father attended flight school at Ft. Wolters, class 66-23. His name was Kenneth Miller. He died in a UH-1 accident at Ft. Rucker in Feb 67. I'm looking for any photos of my father.

Tom Johnson		07-Jul-2012 23:21
Thanks for the new photos, Keith. Great shots. April 13, 1967 was very likely a tornado that touched down briefly, doing all that damage. What memories!

Tom Johnson		17-Jun-2012 23:45
Hi Marcia, I was there in 1966 & '67, but I didn't know your father. I was with the 84th MPs. Unfortunately, I don't remember the address where we lived at the time, but it was a nice two bedroom house, with front and back yard, and a nice neighborhood. I don't think it too far from the mall near the Post.

Marcia Sabol Simmons		17-Jun-2012 18:55
My father was stationed at Wolters twice, once with SCARWAF in about 1953-1955, and then again about 1966-69 when he was Post Engineer. He actually met my mother, a hometown girl and local high school teacher, there in 1953, so when he got sent to South America with no concurrent travel for us, we moved there in 1964, bought a house on SE 23rd, and they retired there. Was the 864th also in Nellingen, Germany? That seems to be the battalion I remember him being adjutant for in the late '50s. My dad, LTC Fred Sabol, died in 2002.

Jim Reece		14-Jun-2012 14:09
If you are in possession of any photos of KIA/MIA personnel of the Vietnam Era, please send these to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Call for photos. I am searching for a photo of David Leon Caplan, RWOC 69-31. If anyone could email me a photo of him, it would be appreciated. He was from NC and I am honoring all of the NC Veterans. My email is reecejim@yahoo.com.

tom Johnson		06-Jun-2012 23:43
Hi Harry, like you these pictures bring back a lot of good memories to all of us. After France, I didn't take any more pictures while in the Army, so have none from Wolters. Keith has gathered many great shots. I just wish I had thought when I was there, but I didn't. I think I got drunk in Cam Ron. I know I did at Nha Trang and Bien Hoa (lol).

Harry Hoeckelberg		05-Jun-2012 23:20
I arrived at Wolters on 1-1-63 in a nasty ice storm after being in training in MO. I was with the 864th Engineers. I have trouble remembering some things due to a car accident in 75. I think I was in B company. I was listed as a heavy equipment operator(5 ton dump). I made friends in Weatherford who I still am in regular contact today. Our unit built training ports for the helicopter pilots . Overall I enjoyed my time there which was 1-1-63 to 8-20-65. The 864th left in the spring of 65 for the resort community of Cam Ranh Bay, RVN. We were in formation about 6 p.m. in the eve for last minute info for the trip the next morning to L.A. area with our equip.. They called three of us to the side and said 3 new people had come in and we were the 3 shortest in time left , so if we wanted our bags we could get them by going thru the baggage car. (we found them). I worked with post engr. mowing lawns, and operating the water truck to water trees and tow the cement mixer where needed. If I could have kept that job I would have re-enlisted. My main friends were Terry Cory, Tony Yarza,Gene Clough,and William Dockery along with one other room mate I can't remember by name. Another 2 names I recall was the last name Bodiford and Edgar Pohemus(sp) . I kept contact with Terry for years but several years ago he dropped from contact. I do not think he is deceased. I found one of the names online last week but have not received any reply. The pictures here do bring back some of the memories. My pictures were lost in my divorce along with records etc. I can't even find my dog tags. I did visit my military(son-in-law) family at Ft. Hood several years ago and drove up to see friends at Weatherford. I went thru Mineral Well but did not go thru the Fort Wolters area. Would likely have been sad as it was a good post. One thing I remember is that we were really fed good there. If anyone has info on the names above or was stationed there with me , I would enjoy contact at harryhoeckelberg@hotmail.com.I live in SouthEast Washington state. Thanks you for the pictures posted here.

Tom Johnson		29-May-2012 00:52
Hi Bob, I enjoyed my time at Wolters. I wanted to retire in Mineral Wells, but they closed the base after the Vietnam war, and I hear the town has pretty well dried up. I drove through back in 198o or '82, I think, and it looked dead then. I would still like to visit the old Post again some day, though.

Bob Whittaker		28-May-2012 07:39
I came to Ft. Wolters in June 1969 to attend flight training. The 6 months I was there was not the best of times in my army career,but I do have fond memories of it. I went back to see it in 1993 and what a change.

Tracy Travis Blunk		03-Apr-2012 14:43
Does anyone who was at Fort Wolters around 1942-1944 remember a James or Jim Travis? He was supposedly born in Canada around 1908-1918 and was stationed in Fort Wolters. He got married in 1943 to a Minerva "Minnie" Polvado in Dallas County. He disappeared in 1947 after he got divorced from my grandmother. Please, if anyone thinks they remember or know him, any information would be extremely helpful...a middle name, a dob, anything!

Leo McDonough		30-Mar-2012 02:33
I was at Wolters from April 1953 until Nov11, 1954 in the 1901 EAB. Shipped out to Saglak Labrador to build an airstrip in the middle of nowhere. Lived offbase with my wife in the cottages at Dan's Bar and restaurant on the Highway. Our company built the swimming pool that is still in use. Have been back twice, 1984 and 1995. Enjoyed the duty there. People and town were nice. Sad to see it all go downhill. My name is Leo McDonough and I was the air compressor operator at Saglak Bay on the demolition squad and the Company mailman while I was at Wolters. GREATduty!! If anyone remembers me I can be reached at leoachester9@aol.com. Living in the Allentown,Pa. area and have stayed in touch with at least 8 of the guys. Would like to hear from you.

Tom Johnson		24-Mar-2012 00:22
Thanks. That's a wonderful story.

J. Morris		23-Mar-2012 00:37
My dad was stationed at Camp Wolters when he met my mother in August 1941 at a USO dance in the Crystal Ballroom of the Texas Hotel in Ft. Worth. They planned their wedding for December 19th of the same year. He was released from the Army then went to Chicago to see his mother when Pearl Harbor was hit. Mother decided they would get married even though they knew he would be called back. He was and landed on Omaha Beach D-Day 4, June 10th, marched across Europe and through Berlin. Was released from service at Fort Sam Houston in 1945. Thanks to his training at Camp Wolters, he made it back.

Lisa		14-Feb-2012 14:29
The chapel on the hill is for sale. Call Lisa at (303) 578-9035 for details.

Tom Johnson		21-Jan-2012 16:36
Thanks for adding the new photos from 1942. We never used the rifle or pistol range while I was there. All the ammunition was being sent to troops in Vietnam. Our company did give us boxes of .22 shells every month and told us to practice on our own.

ED SONKIN		12-Dec-2011 06:57
WAS AT WOLTERS AFB FROM JAN 1954 UNTIL APRIL 1954 WHEN THE 826TH WAS SENT TO FROBISHER BAY, IN THE BAFFIN ISLAND. FOR 6 MONTHS WE TORE DOWN A MOUNTAIN TO EXTEND A RUNWAY. LEFT IN NOV 1954 FOR 1 YEAR TOUR AT PEPPERILL AFB AND 347 BN AT HARMON AFB NEWFOUNDLAND. CAPT GOMEZ WAS MY CO. FINISHED MY TOUR OF DUTY BACK IN THE ARMY AT FORT CARSON, COLO IN SEPT 1956.

Lt Col Peipelman		07-Dec-2011 18:53
Looking for someone who worked with my Grandfather, Elbert Vernon or E. V. Peipelman. i am his grandson, Lt Col Eric Peipelman and trying to track down co-workers and father of someone claiming to be my cousin/grandchild. It seems Elbert knew or worked with the father... Elberts daughter was the mother. I am trying to verify

Tom Johnson		08-Nov-2011 16:48
A lot of years have passed since then, Loren, so my memory has faded a bit. I was a patrol supervisor with the 84th MP Detachment in 1966 to '67, and I know we patrolled the area. I was a member of the Rod & Gun Club in France, and if I'm not mistaken I had thought about joining the club at Wolters, but didn't. As far as I can remember, I was never in the building. I sent a message to my buddy who was in helicopter training at the time, but haven't heard from him yet. We have a Yahoo Group for our Army Post in France, and stay in touch. But like me, his memory is shot too (lol). I'll let you know if when I hear from him.

Guest		08-Nov-2011 01:37
Tom, I was at Wolters, September 67 through April 68... Very few enlisted men, almost all work on base civilian forces. So few NCO's we pulled post duty NCO several times a month. Club had bar on left side of room, all wood floors, the gun store was in the East wing of the building. Sold shotguns and reloading suppliers. Some hand guns. A lot of skeet shooters. The stables were remote and I don't know if they were actually on property. I took over for a staff sgt. who has been there a very long time. My direct boss was a Lt. Col. (Can't remember the name's) I had no other staff. ran the entire facility, did the buying for club and shop. Also worked part time for KORC radio in downtown Mineral Wells during my stay.

Tom Johnson		07-Nov-2011 23:04
Hi Loren, if I'm not mixing this one up with the one at Fort Sam Houston, then I vaguely remember it. I'll see if my buddy who went through helicopter training in 1966 - '67 remembers it. If I find out anything, I'll give you a shout fadingshadows @juno.com

Sgt. Loren Wilhelm		07-Nov-2011 13:06
Great site. I was looking for photos of the gun club or stables. I ran the club for 6 months after returning from Viet Nam. It was located in plantation like building, had skeet and trap ranges, a gun store and of course the bar that WO's consumed huge quanities of kegs and bottled beer. Also signed out folks to deer hunt on property. Sgt. Loren Wilhelm.

Christopher Davis		29-Sep-2011 19:53
Looking for former members of the 328th Army band at Fort Wolters late 60's. My father, Mike Davis, served during that time as a trumpet player in the 328th.He passed away several years ago and I would like to meet some of the men he served with. Thank you, christopherdavis517@hotamil.com

Charlie Swenson		16-Aug-2011 05:28
I was a draftsman in the 826th Engineer Aviation Battalion in 1954-55. OIC was Captain McDermott. We were woorkin on surveying and doing cut and fill diagrams for the perimeter road and a layout for an asphalt plant. I was sent TDY to Fort Belvoir in about June of '55 for construction drafting school. Later I was transferred out of my unit to Fort Sam Houston so I lost track of my friends in the unit. I would love to hear from any of them. Are you out there: Bob Decker- wrestler-Penn State, Jimmie Downing, Thomas Jefferson (wife worked at U.N.)., Louie Williams (Seattle), Arne Oppeboem, Robert M. Hildebrandt.

Eric Luckett		03-Aug-2011 12:12
I asked for information on Audie Murphy circa 1942. I can be reached at edlco2009@gmail.com.

Eric Luckett		03-Aug-2011 12:08
I was doing research on Audie Murphy. Someone told me he was stationed at Camp Woltors for basic training. Is there anyone here that can add a little light to this?

Jack leadabrand		15-Jun-2011 19:11
More on solo alley. In 1970 a young Vietnamese student was tossed into the pool after his solo flight. Nobody bothered to ask if he could swim. He drowned. Sad story. Also remember flying at night in a thunderstorm. Anyone remember Yogi the marine?

Guest		02-Jun-2011 22:44
Thanks for the pictures. Very interesting as my dad and other family members worked there as civilians. I have heard many stories of this time in there lives. We often would go camping at Mineral Wells State Park and take a driving tour of what was left of Fort Wolters as we would go to Braum's for an ice cream.

Guest		09-May-2011 21:29
I was at Camp Wolters with my family from 1958-1962. I went to Lamar Elementary. We lived in one of the Duplexes on post at first. Then we had a house across from the Officer's Club. We had woods behind our house. I still remember hearing the helicopters. I rode my bike all over that post. My dad was Lt. Col. Dale Davis. We left Wolters when I was 11 and moved to Illinois Fort Sheridan. My dad died suddenly after being there for only a year. My mother and I moved to Fort Worth to be near my older sisters at TCU. I know live in FW. I love seeing all the old photos and reading every ones posts. I have some fond memories from the old place.

vern ediger		21-Apr-2011 05:29
I was stationed at Wolters from feb 61 until dec 64 with the 864th company C, a wheeled vehical mechanic and fuel truck driver. had a lot of good times, some not so good, I drove thru about 5 years ago and the barracks I was in is a prison, kind of like when I was there,. only now it had a fence, We had a lot of good times in Mingus also . a lot of the old buildings are gone on the west side where the hobby shop was, the rest is still there. LaVerne Ediger, Halstead Ks

Keith Robinson		19-Apr-2011 18:02
Hey Tom, Thankfully I have not heard anything in the Mineral Wells or Fort Wolters area regarding wildfires. I had been wondering the same thing myself. Most of the fires have been in and around PK Lake. Everything from Fort Worth west is pretty well bone dry and we have had some high winds the last several days which just makes things worse.

Tom Johnson		19-Apr-2011 15:28
Keith, have you heard if those fires in Palo Pinto are a danger to Fort Wolters? From all the reports, the Possum Kingdom area is being hit pretty hard. I wonder how close the fires are to Mineral Wells?

Tom Johnson		05-Apr-2011 16:00
Hey, Keith, try to locate the old MP Station for me, and get a picture of the building if it's still standing. Darn, one of these days I'm going to try to get down there to see the old Post after all these years. The last time I was in the area was in 1982, and I merely drove by the Gate entrance on my way to Fort Worth.

Keith Robinson		05-Apr-2011 03:10
You guys have some great stories. Thanks for sharing. I'll try to get over to Wolters to get more photos. Keith

Tom Johnson		04-Apr-2011 21:59
Hey, Red, I could probably tell you some stories about the Air Force and us. Your message has really rattled my poor memory (lol). I mentioned the TDY to Incerlik Air Base, and the NCO Club deal. Another problem we had, the old run-down area the AF stuck us in was between the main part of the Base and the Main Gate, so the airmen used to cut across our area. They must have thought we were something less than human because they wouldn't even salute our commander. He would get mad, tell us grab those boys and bring them to my office! We'd snap those youngsters up and drag them into his office, and he would proceed to go up one side and down the other. It finally got to the point, those airmen avoided our area when coming and going to town. What memories! Thanks for jogging them for me!

Tom Johnson		04-Apr-2011 14:34
COLD WAR HEROES By Tom Johnson is now available on Amazon. Pulp goes Top Secret in this military comedy drama set in Europe during the height of the Cold War. A group of misfit MPs must confront spies and the black market while dealing with a boxing tournament on Post! Not since MASH and Soldier In The Rain have we been treated to an inside look at military life with a touch of humor by a soldier who actually experienced it. The novel is loosely based on the author’s experience with the 202nd Military Police Company in France during the 1960s.

Tom Johnson		04-Apr-2011 14:32
I think the best meal I had while in Vietnam was the day I finally left. I was waiting for the Freedom Bird at Tan Son Neut (Not sure about the spelling) Air Base, and left the compound to find an Army Mess Hall. The cook loaded my plate with eggs, SOS, bacon, and yeah the toast looked like it was green. But darn I was starved for something besides C-Rats & K-Rats. I still miss Army chow (lol). fadingshadows@juno.com

Carrol C, "Red" Myers		04-Apr-2011 02:07
Thanks Tom, good to find someone that can relate to what I'm talking about concerning the A.F. When I got in the Army in 51, the Air Force was four years old. They were still wearing the old O.D army uniforms they wore when they were still Army air corp. ( My Father was in it in WW2 ) They didn't get so "cocky" till they started wearing their new blue duds. Thats about the time I was shafted, and put into that odd ball outfit, "Scarwaf". I guess we brought a lot of the grief they gave us on our selves after we got to Wolters. We used to antagonize hell out of them, calling them "bus drivers, sky guys, air dales," and a few other things I won't mention. Until we got there, they were the only occupants of the base, but when we arrived, we greatly outnumbered them. We teased them so badly, the Air Police, "AP's" started getting nasty, and harassing to us. It got so bad, that like your C.O, ours had to intervene demanding that they have M.P's along with the A.P's. That improved that situation. We had our own mess facilities, but when I went to Carswell in Ft Worth on tdy, we had to share their mess hall. The damn cooks tried to starve us to death! We were working out on the flight line, pouring concrete, Right out in that wide open space with no shade in the Texas heat. Needless to say, that would sap your energy, and the stingy bastards in that mess hall holdin back on us, I got so hungry I caught the bus into town one evening to get something to eat, and met a guy from home in the bar and grill I went into. He told me he had been watching me every morning when I came through the chow line, but hadn't said anything because he was afraid it might be a case of mistaken identity. I asked if he had anything to do with the mess hall, and he said he was the first cook. I called him some very bad things, but he assured me that from then on I would be fed.I told him that had to apply to all the men in that detail. When I got back to that Quansit hut, "bake oven" that evening, I told my buddies I had fixed the chow situation, but never told them how. I think they thought I had gone to the base Commander. From then on they were always trying to get me to "fix" things. I really liked the short time I spent in the Army, but would have preferred another assignment. If theres any more old Scarwaf types out there that might see this, i'd appreciate hearing from you. Red Myers, redsshed@tds.net

Tom Johnson		03-Apr-2011 23:35
Enjoyed your memories, especially the comment about the Air Force. While in the Army, I was unlucky enough to be sent TDY to a few Air Force bases also, and we were treated like barbarians by the Air Force. We got back at them at times, though. I was a corporal (NCO grade) when I was sent to Incerlik, Turkey for six months. The Air Force stuck us in some awful shacks, but at least they had walls and a roof. I mention my rank because the Air Force NCO Club allowed nothing but NCOs, and their NCO rank began as E-5. Our commander told them his corporals (E-4s) were NCOs, and they would be given NCO Club Cards. Every time one of us corporals walked into their Club we got some god-awful stares (lol)!

Carrol C, "Red" Myers		03-Apr-2011 04:55
This is a great site. Well done! I was at Wolters just after reactivation, when it was an air force base. My unit the 469th EAB an aviation engineer Battalion was shipped there from Fort Leonard wood Missouri in Febuary 1952. Camp wolters had been closed and pretty much dismantled after WW2 and the few buildings remaining were occupied by the Air Force, resulting in most of the Army engr units living in tents. They were pitched over wooden platforms about four inches off the ground, the walls were framed and screened for ventilation when the sides were rolled up. this did give some relief from the heat, but the wide cracks in the floor gave little protection from tarantulas and scorpions. Mess halls and latrines were tar paper shacks built over concrete slabs. all the streets in the tent areas were dirt, covered with limerock. There was a serious drought that summer, and when any vechicle came down the street, clouds of white as flour dust would drift across the area and cover everything. We had to buy zippered garment bags to protect our clothing. Scarwaf, or special category army reassigned with air force, as we were known, was in many ways, a "bastard" outfit. The Army loaned us out to the Air Force, and they didn't seem to have a lot of love for us. They would put us off on some "shit detail," and we had to scrounge, and steal stuff to do it with. We got sent on TDY a lot to other bases and got a break from sleepin in the tents. I stayed there till October that year and was discharged. I had to work hard, but made many good friends I'd really like to reconnect with. So if anyone reads this, and remembers, please contact me. I went back to Wolters on two ocassions, the first in 62 when the chopper school was operating. I saw a much improved Post than the one I left. The last time I went back, was in 02, and as your pictures depict the once proud old post filled with the sound of bugle calls, and cadence was decaying away. So sad...........

Guest		30-Mar-2011 20:00
Although civilians, my family lived at Fort Wolters when I was a child in 1961. My all-time favorite pet, a stray yellow tabby named Patti, became ours when a neighbor apparently left her behind by mistake. A July storm sent waters through our own duplex--one of the few, if not the only, house to be be flooded because we were in a low spot on base. Another time we woke up to cattle in our backyard when they escaped from a nearby rancher's land. I personally enjoyed the house inspection, where a tall military gentleman came in with white gloves to check out our housekeeping (don't think my mother liked it quite as much). And the woods behind our house was a great place to check out all kinds of wildlife (must be where the tarantulas and bull snakes came from). Much later, during the Vietnam War and after we had moved to Arlington, I briefly dated a young helicopter pilot named Terry Summers from the base who was about to be shipped out. I sometimes wonder if he survived the war intact.

stacie frye		29-Mar-2011 19:55
I am hoping that someone new will see this, and have some sort of information they can provide. I am looking for a gentleman by the name of Clarence E. Willimas who was stationed at Camp Wolters. I have no idea of any dates for when he was there but would greatly appreciate any information I can obtain. thank you Stacie Frye

Katie Mitchell		28-Mar-2011 14:58
On a whim I googled Ft Wolters and was amazed and delighted to find this site. What memories it brings back. I was born in the Nazareth Hospital in Mineral Wells, Nov 1956, and my Dad was a chief inspector at the base...John Mitchell. My earliest memories are of hearing and seeing the Huey's fly over. My dad (WWII vet) was a civilian on the base and I went to public school--but always felt a sense of pride and bonding with the military families. Have visited the area several times since moving away in 1968 and was sad to see the Baker in ruins....but, still can say, it was a GREAT childhood and, the best time in my life. Homesick in Missouri

Young&Stupid		07-Feb-2011 04:27
In the spring of 1970 I was to attend 70-41 but it took the Army a year to get me to Primary Flight. In that year I learned lots of things, one was I was anxious to get out of the Army. Two, on PCS you are permitted to a days grace. For me my report date was Easter Sunday, so I came in the next day and MISSED processing into Wolters/Primary Flight. Little did I know taking the few hours grace meant I was destine to be a 2 week hold over, now waiting for class 70-42 to start... My first night, that vary Monday, since I was on Top's shit list, two other hold overs and my self were sent out to guard the wreckage of a TH55 that crashed late that afternoon. Our orders were "don't let any civilians f--k with the wreckage and don't let any animals have dinner here tonight. Needless to say, a vary LONG nigh with lots to think about.... In the remaining days until my new class started, I can remember mowing lawn n painting rocks white around the hospital. But the most memorable thing I remember now is helping a E6 for a few days take EKG tests for pilot physicals at Wolters. During that time I saw lots of shot up WOs n Louies. I remember one guy looked like he had most of his calf shot off. BUT the most memorable one was a pilot that was burned. Only place he did not have scaring was above his helmet line n where his boots were on. From what I can remember every other place on his body had burn scars. Naturally it gets a tad worse, the next day reporting back to help the same E6 take EKGs (he drank coffee as I did the EKGing) I notice the same burnt guy this time with his nomex flight suit on sitting next to a pretty young woman that I suspected was his wife..... At that moment a little voice in my head sad "the Army ain't gonna do that to my wife"........ Guess it took sometime for my hold over time to sink in because I made it in to class 70-42 (WOCs Little n Raper were my room mates), 6th WOC, Ahead of the rest-ahead of the best I think was our marching cry....... I also remember a TAC officer first luie screaming at me "Don't beadie eye me candidate, Looking leads to liking, liking leads loving and loving leads to fucking AND I DON'T WANNA FUCK YOU BOY"..... Then he jumps in my shit for laughing....... Any way, some place along this line I realized I would be in the Army a totalI of 5 years since I was in a year already, flight school was better part of a year and I would have a 3 year commitment after I got my wings decided, so I decided volunteer in volunteer out...... A decision I REGERT TO THIS SECOND N MOST LIKELY WILL TILL THE DAY I STOP BREATHING...... Happy to be able to say that I did get my commercial rotor wing ticket along with building n flew a great little kit CH-7 Angel helicopter in the early 1990s. I also had perhaps the first web sight on recreational helicopters on the iNet called Sport helicopter n Pilot Global Information Exchange since the kit manufactures for the most part were only interested in receiving your final payment, not your safe flight with there craft. But that was 2o years ago, now it costs $4.oo per minute to rent a R22. Sad to say at 61, not too much I am willing to pay $4.oo a minute to do......... I am looking for WOC/WO Graham Bowles, any one seen him?

Merrilee McCarty Jones		16-Dec-2010 23:23
Thanks for the memories. My dad, Royce McCarty, was an instuctor and I remember going out and looking at the helicopters when I was a little girl.

G. Barnard		08-Dec-2010 11:16
for Thomas Oldham. You must have been about the last one flying from our class. I quit after 25 years. Went on to become paramedic, now retired in fl. George Barnard

Keith Robinson		07-Dec-2010 18:57
Here is a video on youtube many here may enjoy. . . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wULbHHjJUjY&feature=player_embedded#!

DFagan		04-Dec-2010 07:31
Thank you for sharing these photos! My dad (Keith Iverson) was a pilot and flight instructor at Fort Wolters and at Southern Airways. I remember going to kindergarten on base and going to the commissary! These pictures brought back memories....when I saw the entrance with the two helicopters on either side I remember driving through there everyday going to school...something I had forgotten until seeing the photo. Thanks for the memories!

R Norris		22-Nov-2010 20:50
I arrived at Ft Wolters in Sept '66 for an ORWAC class but was held over for a month so a contingent of Thai pilots could be trained. A class was limited in size and DA could not hold the Thai pilots for a month. Don't remember the class number but I started Red hat and graduated Gold hat. There was a General's son in the counterpart WORWAC class. The TAC officers had to brief his General father on his progress every night.

Teresa Hickman		09-Nov-2010 05:42
I was a kid fresh out of college, first real job was civil service working on the back 40 of the flight line. I shipped out all the trainers to Fort Rucker,AL. now I live near Ft. Rucker. Met my husband , who was station at Ft Wolters. He was the Post Commander 's driver. Some day I want to go back and look the place over.

Tom Johnson		07-Nov-2010 17:37
Hi Sharon, I think we all taught our wives how to spit shine our boots (LOL). My wife eventually rebelled, and I had to shine them myself (hahaha). I'm sorry I didn't know your husband, as I left Fort Wolters in 1967. But the chopper pilots and medics were really appreciated in Vietnam, believe me! Glad you found the Site.

Guest		07-Nov-2010 02:17
What memories this brings back. My ex-husband, Richard Santmyer, was at Ft. Wolters in 68-69 and I lived off base. He was in Class 69-13 B3 3rd WOC Company. I have pictures of him being thrown in the hotel pool after soloing. I learned to be pretty good at spit shining boots for inspection. lol Our son ended up being born June 3, 1969 at Hunter AAF, GA. on the day Richard received his wings. I would love to hear from anyone from his class. Sharon

Tom Johnson		01-Oct-2010 18:56
I recently learned from the son of Aubrey J. Sharpton that his father, Captain (now Lt/Col) has passed away. He was the Provost Marshall at Fort Wolters while I was there in 1966 & '67. Sad, I remember him as a young man!

Tom Johnson		28-Sep-2010 17:49
Hi Fred & All, I just received the Retirement Service Bulletin from Fort Hood. They are having another Retiree Appreciation Day on October 29th & 30th (I won't be able to make it), They included a map of the Post, but nothing looked familiar (sigh). It would be fun to attend, just to see how much the old Post and Killeen have changed.

frred		26-Sep-2010 22:17
Hey Tom, Thanks for the reply. I did get your private msg in my email. Thanks You're right.. we are practically neighbors in this great state of Texas. That is a funny story about "MP". Well, when you are "gun ho" and young, you will try anything. Who wants to jump out of a perfectly good airplane? But I read history about "D-Day" and the first ones in were the 101st or the 82nd... I remember just before our 1st jump... the instructor told us that when we hit the ground after our first jump, they would have to hide all the 10-T parachutes in Benning because we would want to go up again instantly... lol.. and he was right The most gratefying about the whole training is when the Colonel jumps with you on last jump and we line up in formation and he comes around and pines those wings on our chest followed by a salute and a loud "Ariborne" we respond with "all the way, Sir"... Getting emotional here so I will let go with that... Take care Tom and thanks again for the connect.

Tom Johnson		26-Sep-2010 21:55
Hi Fred, I sent you a private e-mail, but thought I would post a quick reply here in case you didn't get it. I arrived at Fort Wolters in June 1966, and the unit was well established, so I'm assuming it had been there all along. Recruiters often make major mistakes. I had a friend in France who was a GM trained auto mechanic, so the Recruiter wrote "MP" on the paperwork for Motor pool. This guy was slapped in the MPs instead! All that training was wasted! I entered under the Buddy System with two other boys from Seymour (Texas), and we signed up for Airborne, but thankfully we each had a profile that kept us out of Jump School (I didn't really want to jump out of planes anyway - ha). I was a farm and ranch boy, what did I know about parachutes?

Fred Acosta		25-Sep-2010 23:40
Hey Tom, Thanks for the welcome. We have a lot in common duty wise except for you in the MPs. As a matter of fact, when I enlisted the recruiter assured me I would go to MP school. Wrong... I was sent to Radio & Lineman at Gordon. Had a Brother in Germany in the MPs Correct me if I'm wrong. You sharp MPs were everywhere at Hood but I did not see one of you guys all the while I was at Wolters in 65-66. May you all came along after? In any event, Wolters was a quiet place, I think. Except for the WOCs having their dances at the PX hall. I remember lovely young ladies arriving at the base in buses out of Dallas to entertain the WOCs. I must say those young men deserved a bit of "R&R" from their training. What have you published, Tom? If you have books out let me know, I would sure like to read your work. I am living in Abilene, Tx now have a son in the Air Force, he was stationed here at Dyess AFB but got orders for Germany. He's a flight engineer. Proud of him Well Tom, take care of yourself ole man. My email is zero5bravo@yahoo.com. Drop me a line now and then... Thanks again for the welcome... God Bless you and yours. Fred

Tom Johnson		25-Sep-2010 22:28
Hi Fred, Welcome Home Brother! I was with the 84th MPs at Wolters from 1966 to '67. Our PM was Captain Sharpton. Basic at Fort Carson, then AIT at Fort Gordon. First duty station was Fort Hood, 720th MPs. Had a hard time getting out of the 4th Army, except Korea and Vietnam, plus one nice 3-year tour in France. Spent most of my time at Fort Sam Houston, Fort Bliss, and even made it to Fort Bragg for a while. Retired in February '79, but went into publishing instead of law enforcement. Forced to retire in 2004 after a stroke, but I'm still active at 70 (lol).

Fred Acosta		25-Sep-2010 20:17
Hello to my fellow Vets, thank you for serving... I was stationed at Wolters in early '65 and '66 with the 303rd Army Security Agency. The 385th Security Agency was base there at the time also. The pics here bring back lots of good memories. After tours @ Ft. Hood with the 2nd Armored Division, Camp Kaiser Korea with the 7th Infantry and jump school at Benning, it was a rather quiet tour of duty. The only loud noise was the "whirly birds" being flown by fearless WOCs. I learned lots of respect for those young men after my tour in "Nam" in 66-67 with the 19th Engineer Battalion "Stronger Than Dirt". I reuppped in 65 to go back to Korea, but I ended up @ Wolters. I was born and raised in west Texas and joined up to get out and "see the world" My first tour after basic and AIT at Ft. Gordon was @ Ft. Hood. After the reup I was send down here to Wolters. After numerous 10-49s to Korea I must have p***** someboy off and there I go to Nam. But, no regrets. The comradiere, brotherhood, and fellowship in the Army was worth it. So I went "lifer" got out in 81. Thank you to the individual responsible for placing the Wolters photos on line... after my ETS I became a Texas Peace Officer and on one occasion, I think it was in mid 80s, I drove to Ft Worth from El Paso and went by Wolters on my way and drove around the old base. I could not help but get emotional, Imagine me a big Deputy Sheriff in a Sheriff's car just driving around with tears in my eyes. Thank you for your time reading this. If you or someone you know was with the 303rd or 385th drop a line here a maybe we can remenise. My name is Fred and I am now 66 years young, retired. Take care and God Bless.

Tom Johnson		22-Sep-2010 12:15
Cindy, if you need a Book Review, contact me at fadingshadows@juno.com

case54		17-Sep-2010 15:30
I just found this site by accident. I can't believe it! I just finished a book called "Dear Mrs. Gray," about my great uncle Warren who was a cook and baker at Camp Wolters from 1942-1945. The book is based on letters he wrote to my great aunt while serving in the Army. It talks about the Baker Hotel, The Mineral Wells area, Hell's Bottom, Dry Creek, all of it. Camp Wolters was his home for three years. If you want to read more about it, check out Amazon.com or Smashwords.com. Amazon allows you to read the first 6 pages of the book. Smashwords allows you to read the first 50 pages of the book. Enjoy the trip back to Camp Wolters during WW II.

Gary L Hampton		09-Aug-2010 19:46
I was a sp/5 heavy equipment operator in the 864th Engineer Bn from April 1963 untill september 1964. I enjoyed my time at Wolters. I was in Co.C and we built stage field 5 out west of town South of of highway 180 on the Brazos river. I married a local girl and settled in Mineral Wells after returning from VietNam in November 67'. I worked at Southern Airways as a helicpter flight test mechanic untill I went to work for the Post Office in Mineral Wells in April 68'. When we seperated I moved to California then retired to Indiana. I still visit my daughter in Mineral Wells and visit the old haunts .I am a member of the VFW post 2399 there.

Thomas Oldham		30-Jul-2010 14:52
This is a cool site. I graduated 69-31 in May 1969. I then went to Ft. Rucker like a lot did to finish flight. My last flight in an Army helicopter was Oct 2007. I flew for almost all those year for the Army as a Warrant and a DAC at Ft. Rucker. This site bring back may memories. Thanks.

Charles E. Wells		06-Jul-2010 23:03
Hello all that were in the 328th there at Wolters. It was a big part of my life for three years after graduating from North Texas in Jan. 69. Can look back now and say that being there probably saved my live and helped me become a better musician and hopefully person. Can,t say how many were graduates of old NTSU but remember at least six or seven of us there during those three years. I can testify for sure that the 328th had some of the finest musicians anywhere and there was very little if anything we couldn,t play. From jazz band to brass choir to concert band to marching band all you guys were the greatest and I have only lasting admiration and respect for all of you. I didn,t know it at the time but my dad was stationed there during basic in WW11. Also my brother in law Talmidge Hines WO4 was also stationed there a few years ahead of me. Can anyone beat that chance? I remember NEVER having a single weekend off during my three years there, as we were always playing for rodeos, parades, pass in reviews, graduations, and politcal gatherings, even for Ross Perot. I do remember the very sobering sight of almost daily body bags being flown in to the back of the hospital in back of the band hall. Sometimes several a day! Yes, the heat was terrible, especially one summer for 45 days it never got below 100 degrees, not even at night. Remember the Blue Norther that almost blew everyone away on the parade field. Temp droped from over 100 to below 70 in less than a minute! I am retired now after teaching music in grades 5 thru Jr. College in Texas and Kansas and so put much I learned there at Wolters to good use. A special thanks to all of you who put up with me going through a very difficult time for all of us. I have nothing but the best to say about any of you. Sgt Rommilett was great to know as were you all. Would like to meet again sometime as have never been back to Mineral Wells since 72. Thanks for the memories. Spc5 Charles E Wells

Tom Johnson		04-Jul-2010 18:53
After all these years, I've tried to recall names from from the 84th MPs in 1966 & '67, when I was at Wolters, but few come to mind today. I remember an E-6 named Reynolds, and an E-6 named Redder (not sure about that spelling). Our Provost Marshall was Captain Aubrey J. Sharpton, Jr., and though just a captain, he had the guts of a full-bird colonel. He took care of his MPs! My brother-in-law, Jackie Martin, was in the Post Motor Pool during that time. I believe he was an E-6 also. Tall, and skinny, with a hawk nose, Jackie died quite a few years ago. A shame how memory slips away from us!

Marge(using friends computer		21-Jun-2010 20:32
I cannot believe this!!!!!!!! For years I have been searching and waiting to find someone who knew MP Steve Harp.... I knew him and loved him... I named my son after Stephen Ray Harp from Susanville, California and was there for his memorial sevice held in that chapel at Fort wolters. So many years passed. Time is a Traveler and I have always remmebered Steve Harp and have two pictures of him in my living room. Always in my heart forever.

Randall Norris		14-Jun-2010 08:46
I was at Wolters from Sept. 11, 1969 until I was discharged for arthritis on Jan. 19, 1970. Got separated from my buddies in 10th WOC from Ft. Polk (eyes), two weeks as Snowbird, then assigned to 2nd Woc. My TAC officer was a Polish guy, can't remember his name. Went to the hospital 24 hours from flight line. Anyone in 2nd or 10th WOC would love to hear from you. Would also love to hear from anyone who has one of our Ft. Polk Basic books I can buy or scan and return. Or MP Beetle Bailey, Books or Richard Pennington from Boone, North Carolina. MP Steve Harp was my buddy. Killed in car wreck in Weatheford. Also would love to hear from anyone who knew Dr. Beletti, or anyone who was with, or knew about accident where Somsky was killed at Rucker. Anyone knowing whereabouts of Walter Olds, California kid, or Jon Ridenhour from Pensacola, Florida would love to hear from you. Sorry to bother you guys with this, but I'm pretty much on the way out gang and would just like to say goodbye to some old friends and clear up a very confusing time in my life. Any help appreciated. Thanks very much for any information. I didn't make it through Wolters, but I made it through life I guess; two kids, three grandkids, and twin five year old grandsons. Meaner than snakes ha! That's good enough. Thanks for any help, and thanks for all the good memories! Dr. Randall Norris, Ph.D. Former Professor Sauk Valley Community College Dixon, IL Senior Fulbright Scholar Author: Women of Coal, Highway 61: Heart of the Delta norrisr@svcc.edu

Dawn		19-May-2010 05:15
I am proud to say that I am an instructor at Fort Wolters and I have enjoyed looking at these pictures. I drive pass these buildings every day for work and I have even made extra time to drive around to look at the hospital and the theatre and any building I can get close to. I just wanted to say thank you to all who served and/or supported our soldiers that served at Fort Wolters. I am glad to be a part of history myself. Thanks Keith for the pictures!! SSgt Bridges, 6 yrs Air Force and counting..... tink41503@yahoo.com

Guest		10-May-2010 21:45
Tnx for the memorys 9th WOC class 6945 wolters & 6949 Rucker. Man, that was a long time ago.

Guest		09-May-2010 18:24
My dad went through basic training at Camp Wolters in 1943. I went through flight school there in 1967. Thanks for the memories from both of us.

Tom Johnson		16-Apr-2010 00:35
Here's something for the officers that were stationed at Fort Wolters. Sometime in late '66, the MPs were requested to contact the Officer's Club one evening. I took the call and met with an officer at the Club, and he told me they were pulling a trick on the officers, and had a Hubert Humphrey look alike scheduled to make an appearance that evening, and asked for a team of MPs to pull a complete security check of the building just prior to his arrival. Humphrey was the VP under LBJ at that time. So we walked in on a bunch of unsuspecting officers that evening, and went through a security check of the building as requested, and then stood by the door as the pseudo VP entered the building with his Secret Service, then we left. But not before we saw some surprised faces at the Officer's Club!

Guest		14-Apr-2010 15:28
I am trying to locate Charles Phelvis...he was an MP at Fort Wolters until approximately December, 1965. If any of you remember him then or know him now, I would appreciate any informtion you could provide.

Guest		14-Apr-2010 02:18
I am trying to locate Charles Phelvis...he was an MP at Fort Wolters until approximately December, 1965. If any of you remember him then or know him now, I would appreciate any informtion you could provide.

PE Yarnell		07-Apr-2010 04:34
My family lived on the deactivated base for two year, from about the summer of 1947 until 1949. My father worked for a company named ABC and we had been relocated there from Chicago. I was only in the 1st and 2nd grade when we lived there. Our first residence was a barracks (upper floor) very similar to the one in this photo (IMG_1050). The 'powers that be' relocated us to an old mess hall at some point. I remember a family of skunks at our back door and a cow chasing me up the steps into the house. We were moved again to a third barracks, which I believe was also a mess hall, but I'm not sure. It's hard to recall much from that time. I am now 67 and both my parents have passed on. I have really, really enjoyed looking at these pictures and recalling the fun time my brother and I had while living on the base. [There was not so fun times too, like having the red measles in the middle of the first summer we were there and then sometime the next spring having a very severe case of chicken pox.] If there is anyone out there who lived on the deactivated base from sometime in 1947 to 1949 (about) I'd love to hear from you. We were bused to Travis Elementary School in Mineral Wells when I was in the 1st and 2nd grades. Thanks for the memories. [have also posted under the photo (IMG_1050)

LIONEL BEAUDOIN		03-Apr-2010 20:02
I was stationed at Camp Walters from July 1964, then864th engr left April or May of 1965 to go to Cam-Ranh Bay, Viet-Nam. I was with the 864th for 2 1/2 years Nove 1966 I was a mechanic on the heavy equipment dozers, graders,and 830M scraper.

Eddie Watkins		21-Mar-2010 19:12
I spent several great years at Fort Wolters. My father was stationed there from approximately 1961-1967. It was a great place to live. Played little league baseball in the summer, I was on the Cardinals and it seemed that the Dodgers would come in first place every year, jumping on my bike and heading off to all directions on the Post, from sunup to sundown. I attended Lamar Elem. and Robert E, Lee Jr. High. I had some wonderful years there. It was a great place to grow up in. I have many fond memories of the old Fort. Edwin (Eddie) Watkins

Tom Johnson		13-Mar-2010 12:55
More great old pictures of Wolters. If I remember correctly, the barracks were divided into two-man rooms; that would probably be two window areas. Although I was assigned a room to myself. At the time, these barracks were the best I had been assigned to in the Army. They were very modern at the time. I was on the second floor, and we had maid service. Oddly, the only movie I remember seeing at the Post Theater was Tarzan And The Valley of Gold, the first one with Mike Henry. My wife and I were both Tarzan fans, and were some of the first in line for the movie. I'm sure we went to see other films. Thanks for these wonderful memories!

Tom Johnson		27-Feb-2010 14:09
I love the new pictures on the Site, especially the Map. As an MP, I patrolled the Post for almost a year, and recognize some of the landmarks: Officer's Club, NCO Club, the barracks area, Provost Marshall office, HQ. Thanks for the memories!

Tom Johnson		22-Feb-2010 00:00
Thank you, Ann! And thank your brother and son for us, their service means a lot to all of us. After being in the Army for over 8 years, Fort Wolters was the first Army Post with modern barracks that I experienced. I thought the Post was actually very scenic, quite unlike most Army Post I had been to. I was only there for seven or eight months (1966 to '67), but always wanted to go back. Never did. Instead, I went to places like Korea and Vietnam! (lol)

Ann Hilmanowski		21-Feb-2010 18:03
I am glad to find this website about Fort Wolters. I so enjoyed looking at the photos, and reading memoirs. I am saddened Fort Wolters was allowed to fall into disrepair. I spent a short two weeks at Fort Wolters, July, 1973. I was almost 15 years old. My Dad, and Army Reserve Officer, was assigned his annual two week active duty to Fort Wolters, teaching air strategy to some of the Shah's boys. He brought all of his family, Mom, my two brothers, my siter, me, and our two dogs with him. For me, a carefree kid, it was like a summer vacation. I remember the pool, the PX, and the Commisary. I remember the helicopters flying around. I remember going into Mineral Wells, and fishing at Possum Kingdom. I remember riding my bike all over Fort Wolters. I watched Spotted skunks and Collared Lizards by the creek. I hiked in the hills, and had snakes slither, and taratulas scuttle away from me. I remember the Mockingbird that sang in the tree out front of the house we were assigned. I remember my Dad telling me just about every morning, "Ann, whatever you do today, STAY OUT OF THE FIRING RANGE!" Even though I spent such a short time at Fort Wolters, it made such a big impression on me, seeing what people who make their business minding our national defense do. Thankyou to all who served at Fort Wolters. Thankyou to all Vets and Servicemen and Servicewomen for the freedom we enjoy. My youngest brother grew up and served during Desert Storm. My son has now served two deployments to Iraq. Without our strong military we wouldn't have what we have. Thank you, and God bless the U.S.A.

Tom Materene		15-Feb-2010 01:31
Will the owner of this photo set please contact me. I have a question about the photo of the crafts shop. In the photo there is an Opel Kadet Rallye Sport parked in front of the crafts shop and I think this may have been myself in 1967. I was stationed out at Alvarado Texas with the Nike Hercules site, our sister battery was there at Wolters as well as our finance office and of course the hospital was also for our use if we so desired. We were allowed to use several sources for sick call and could choose where we wanted to go. I really can't remember why I was there but the timing and car are in sync.

GEORGE PAPPAS		08-Dec-2009 17:41
My name is George Pappas. I was in the Army (SCARWAF) at Wolters AFB March 55 to Sep 56. I was trained as a heavy equipment operator at Ft Leonard Wood. Upon arriving at Wolters they made me the Battalion Finance Clerk. I really enjoyed my tour there even as a draftee. I went with a local girl for a year and a half..name Joanne Boyle almost married her but I was homesick and she wouldn't move to Indy..She still lives in Mineral Wells...I lived in one of the old barracks shown in your pictures.

Alan Hall		29-Nov-2009 16:36
To all the old 328th Army Band Members, I was a "junkman" (could fill in on almost anything from trumpet to keyboards to baritone horn to French horn and even Bass drum and tymphami). Mianly was a guitarist, but that's another story with the TCU jazz band and Miss Texas who played Thomas Jefferson's wife in the original Braodway play of 1776 and why I played a guitar solo for her. Last time I was down there, the old "Ist WOC" where I was a WOC was a detention camp for juvenile offenders, and nobody much remembers how we flew silly little helicopters here there and everywhere. Got plenty war stories, and they're all true, including later ones with the Air FORCES Reserve, but that's another story Would like to meet again any of us Ol' guys played in the 328th Army Band. Especially or Top Saregent Ed Green or Curtis: best tenor sax jazz players I've ever had the luck to jam with. And, yes, in later years, I came back and practiced Emergency Medicine in the new hospital in Mineral Wells I help found. Still a middlin' part of the faculty over to Weatherford College. Alan Alan H. Hall, M.D. TCMTS, Inc. Laramie ,WY (307) 745-0600 Cell Phone: (307) 399-1564

Guest		29-Nov-2009 01:31
My father in law was trained in heavy, weapons before deploying to Phillipines and Japan . . . WW II. He was part of the Army's 33rd (midwest) division. 13-th Infantry regiment, 53 batallion. I have a cousin who was a Vietnam helicopter pilot trained at Ft. Wolters. I appreciate the Ft Wolters honor of Viet vets but don't forget the historical vet like my father in law. I wanted to get him a Ft Wolters baseball cap for Christmas. . . . . guess I will have to have it custom made.

Guest		20-Nov-2009 16:52
John, I was a Trombone player in the 328th Oct 65-Oct 68. I kind of remember you. I have been in contact with a bunch of the guys and could get you some E mail adresses. I think I was a Spec 5 when you were there and ready to get out . Contact me at rgs946@hotmail.com Bob S

John Batcheller		19-Nov-2009 22:57
I was in the 328th Army Band here from Nov '67 thru June '68. I was a drummer and the company clerk until I was ordered to Viet Nam where I joined the 9th Inf. Div. Band. Would love to reconnect with some of the guys there.

Guest		11-Nov-2009 05:21
I am Lonnie Eason.I own the old catholic Chapel On The Hill at Ft. Wolters and would enjoy seeing any old photos or other info on the church or base. email eason1966@gmail.com

Guest		07-Nov-2009 15:57
Thank you for establishing this site. I have been trying to find info on my father-in-law, William L. Smith who trained at Camp Wolters, Texas, 1942. It helps to put his life together seeing where he trained and served. He died in 1979 before we knew to get all his great stories. He was a happy, playful man that loved his country. Peggy

C.B.		15-Oct-2009 14:53
To T.J. Parry- The motel you mentioned, and pool is still there, just another name. The rotor blades are now at the Vietnam war museum located across the highway, catty corner from Wolters. There is a static display of a UH-1 and some memorial plaques and I think now, a model of the Washington D.C. Vietnam memorial wall. Wolters is a very special place full of history. If you did not know, it was one of the largest forts that trained soldiers for WWII. Audy Murphy went to basic training there! The place had been a military post since the 20's.

Richard (Daniels) Hill		05-Oct-2009 18:04
I was an Army brat living on Camp Wolters 1957-1959. I remember living for the base swimming pool to open in the summer and going to the Teen Club on Saturday night. We moved to Airport Hights, 59-61. I left and joined the Air Force but the brothers and sisters stayed but all eventually left by 1971.

John Samuel Tieman		15-Sep-2009 13:24
PS: My email is jstieman@aol.com .

John Samuel Tieman		15-Sep-2009 13:17
I played clarinet and sax with the 328th. I was there from 1969 until 1970, when I was sent to the 4th Infantry Division Band in the Nam. Today I am a teacher and a writer. I just published a collection of my poetry, much of it about Vietnam, entitled "A Concise Biography Of Original Sin", which is available through Amazon.com. Poetry is where my musical energy now goes. Besides writing, I am a teacher these days. I think a reunion is an interesting idea. I've corresponded with Doug Skinner, and have heard of the whereabouts of a few others.

Janet Thibault		05-Sep-2009 11:51
We,(my family & I) spent 6 years at Fort Wolters. From 1953 to 1959. We lived at the housing development on base. It was still a SCARWAF installation when we got there. I went to Mineral Wells high school. I loved living on base. My years in Texas were wonderful, and altho I am an Army brat, I always state, when asked, that "I am from Texas".

Steve Elias ( Shelton)		12-Aug-2009 03:49
I was born at Beech Army Hospital Feb 2 1971.I am told that I was the last baby born in the hospital. My birth held up my fathers flight group from going to Vienam for a few weeks. It is really great to see these pictures thank you.

Bradley Halfhill		23-Jul-2009 00:41
My dad went to flight school here cica 67-68 and came back as a TAC in 70 after his first tour in Vietnam. I was born in 61 but have memories of Mineral Wells and Ft Wolters. We lived in a trailer park and I attended Travis elementary and Davey Crockett elementary. Thanks for posting these pics. And thanks to all of you Vietnam era veterans!

douglas shortall		04-Jun-2009 01:21
I was 11 years from rhode island whem my family went to fort wolters in 1969. they made us get out of the pool when they landed on the moon! I saw a lot of movies there. rode the horses,split my head open.(poor mom) there were five kids. we stayed at the town & county trailer park. some thing i will never forget. After wolters it was off to rucker. fun times. douglas shortall

Guest		24-May-2009 05:00
If anyone in the area is interested in providing a sort of history tour that trained at Wolters, I would be very interested as would my current soldiers. Ft. Wolters is very active, many do not know this. Soldiers, Marines, Guard, Air Force and the Navy still have pre-deployment rotations through Ft. Wolters. Although Ft. Wolters has changed dramatically it still provides a very precious commodity, training our military forces! If interested e mail me at michael.breito@tx.ngb.army.mil

Corbet		11-Apr-2009 22:29
Great historical photos. I actually was checking out the hospital today taking pictures. I knew it woul've had something to do with the camp, but I wasn't sure until now.

Kay		06-Apr-2009 23:25
I'm searching for info about William Daugherty stationed at Camp Wolters in 1944. Anything would be appreciated.

Fred Fischer		28-Mar-2009 20:44
The area shown in the following: Heliport #2, FtWolters_TX_66.jpg and Remains of heliport #2 tower Are of the only Heliport that existed when I arrived in Aug '65, simply known as The Heliport. After the construction of Downing Heliport it was thence referred to as The Main Heliport. On the map (Staging Fields), it is denoted as Wolters AHP. Item 222838242_o.jpg during WW-II. Items Heliport #2 and 222838242_o.jpg, are roughly looking from the West toward the East. Item FtWolters_TX_66.jpg appears to have been taken from the tower, roughly looking toward the South. The heliports were: Main: On post - Fort Wolters Downing: Adjacent to Mineral Wells municipal airfield. Built late 1967. Dempsey: Out by Possum Kingdom Lake.

Fred Fischer		28-Mar-2009 16:34
Pat Lassalle Pilgrim: I was a Southern OH-23 IP from Aug '65 to Sep '69. Most of those years spent in Billy Choate's flight where your dad was Assistant Flight Commander. Both, two fine gentlemen, of whom I have fond memories.

Ron Heuss		21-Mar-2009 23:49
Someone mentioned setting a chopper down in a mall. I can recall an individual who thought it was fun to chunk beer cans at fishermen on Possum Kingdom lake. All went well until he chunked a few at the post commander.

Ron Heuss		21-Mar-2009 23:47
Hi Tom--great idea! I would love to have a reunion at the old fort, just to remember some pain and misery, if nothing else.

Pat Lassalle Pilgrim		17-Mar-2009 00:15
My Dad, Bill Lassalle, was an IP at Wolters from 1957 to about 1972. I grew up on the base and married a "town" boy. The pictures bring back wonderful memories of all the places I used to go to by the bus that made a loop around the base. Thanks for the pictures and for all of the service you gave to keep us free. My son is in his second tour of Iraq. Thank God for our military. Pat Lassalle Pilgrim

Tom Johnson		10-Mar-2009 15:08
Hi Ron, I think a reunion would be great. Not just for the band, but all who were assigned to Fort Wolters in the past. I would certainly love to see the old Fort again. If you start taking names and emails, I think I've listed mine already, but here it is again: fadingshadows@juno.com Drop me a note if you arrange for a reunion some time.

Ron Heuss		08-Mar-2009 23:45
I served in the 328th Army band from October 1967 - July 1970. I recently visited the old Fort and took pictures. Part of the old band practice room is there and three of the band's barracks that were occurpied during my tenure are still in place, but in ruin. Beach Army hospital is in ruin, as is most of the facility. Most band members remember the end of the month parades and graduation ceremonies that took place on a vacant lot just south of the hospital. I would be interested in a reunion if possible. I do have several contacts.

Ron Harmon		23-Feb-2009 19:59
I was stationed at Fort Wolters from July 1967 to August 1968. I was a Spec5 assigned to the motor pool. I can remember seeing the missiles raised on the north side of the Fort. Many memories there. I can remember the drive-in outside of Mineral Wells that had I think was like .50 cent carload night. I can remember seeing Bonnie and Clyde there with a whole group of us. I drove for Colonel Robert M. Prater.

Tom Johnson		17-Feb-2009 00:17
Hi Tom, I was only there from June '66 to February '67. Not long, but I really liked it at Fort Wolters. I remember one of the trainees setting a "chopper" down in that little Mall just off Post. He had some some trouble with it. I bet he had more trouble when his commander got through with him (lol). But no one was injured in the incident. Loved Mineral Wells also. I guess you went straight to 'Nam when you left Wolters?

T. J. Parry		16-Feb-2009 19:06
Hi, my name is Tom. I spent six months at Fort Wolters back in January-June 1973. Looking back, the experience turned out to be one of the most memorable periods of my life. I was a Warrant Officer Candidate (WOC), attending Primary Helicopter Flight School, I think my class was number 73-35, and I remember with affection my classmates, all twelve or so of us. What an intense period of my life; up at 5:00 AM and off for the daily jog with the TAC Officer, then breakfast and then on to class or the flight line. No walking, it was run, run run, everywhere except the flight line that is. The TH-55 was the primary trainer, and after some trying first few hours, we were soon flying the pattern of the stage fields and practicing autorotations with the instructor. I still remember like it was yesterday, the bus stopping at the Holiday Inn in Mineral Wells and being tossed into the pool by our classmates the day of our first solo flight. The crossed UH-I Huey rotor blades adjacent to the pool were placarded, "under these blades have passed the finest aviators in the world" or something to that effect. The motel is no longer there, but I believe the blades now reside at the WOC Museum at Fort Rucker. While attending a party one weekend at Possum Kingdom, I met a girl from Texas Women's University who I later married and is now my wife of 35 years. I will never forget the fun we had at the class parties and the "purple passion punch." The whole Fort Wolters experience is one of which, I will treasure for life. I have just recently retired after a successful career in commercial helicopter aviation, and to think it all started with the training, knowledge and safety habits I learned at Fort Wolters. In retrospect, the US Army and the training turned out to be the best thing that could have happened.

Kelly Sherman		10-Feb-2009 04:39
Hello , My Name Is Kelly, I just Love Looking at these great pictures, its really amazeing to see the old base in all of its glory, back in its glory days. My Great Grandfather Was a Janitor, at the base, for many years, not sure how long, and what years, but i know he was there in the 60's his name was Earl Watson, from weatherford, texas. i would sure love to see some pictures of him, at the fort, if there is any and if anyone has some. i love history, so i will be checking out your site more, thanks Kelly Sherman Odessa Texas

Dean Peloso		10-Jan-2009 17:16
To Franklin P. Uroda, My name is Dean Peloso my Unlce George Antonhty Peloso was stationed there in the late 40's or early 50's. He was a talented painter and was asked by the chaplin at that time to paint the 12 stations of the cross, which he did. My family used to have photographs of the paintings, but they have been lost. I was wondering if you every saw them in your time there and if you aware of any pcitures of them. Any informtion will be appreciated. My email address is nynydp@aol

Fred Muller		30-Dec-2008 22:04
Fred Muller email is fmuller@associated-allied.net of patandfredmuller@comcast.net

Fred Muller		30-Dec-2008 21:40
I came to Wolters from Brooklyn with the Fighting 328th. I have talked to Streemke and Carpenter and Wong. Anybody else out there? 630-514-5852. God Bless America.

Guest		29-Dec-2008 20:51
Ron. I was a T bone player with the 328th , 65-68. A Ron I remember was from Albany Tx. I have been in contact with a few of the guys that you might remember. A reunion? It would be cool to hear from you, Will give you the E mail addys of the guys I have been in contact with. My email rgs946@ hotmail.com Bob S.

Ron Heuss		28-Dec-2008 23:44
I played trumpet in the 328th Army Band at Ft. Wolters in the late 1960s. Since I was there for over two years, I interested in contacting anyone who served in the band from 1967 - 1970 to discuss a possible reunion. Thanks Ron

Kaye Queen		26-Dec-2008 23:14
I am an avid history buff and would love to go inside some of the abandoned buildings here. I attended class at Weatherford College here on the base. I loved the building. My husband was an instructor at the time and he spent a lot of time in the building (the one that houses the Police Academy, Beauty School and not to long ago the EMT Program) he said alot of unexplainable things happened there. I have driven around the base and can only imagine what it was like back when it was active. If anyone knows who to contact to get into some of the old abandoned barracks and espically the hospital PLEASE contact me. To those of you who were stationed at the base, my hats off to you, thank you for being courageous and taking on the task of defending in our country in Peace and War.

Tom Johnson		10-Nov-2008 18:53
I was with the 84th MPs from about May 1966 to February '67. I loved the unit, town, and the base! A great assignment. We rented off base. I remember buying a house full of furniture from Sears at the little Mall next to the theater off base. I regret not taking any pictures, so was thrilled to find all the photos on your Site. Thanks for the memories.

Judy Richards Shubert		07-Sep-2008 16:56
I was born in Mineral Wells, grew up there, and went to work at the PX in 1962 after high school. Your wonderful photos bring back a lot of memories! I worked in the PX office from 1962 - 1965 under a wonderful woman, Dorothy “Dot” Calhoun, also originally from Mineral Wells. One of my co-workers introduced me to my future husband, a soldier from Tennessee stationed at Fort Wolters with the 303rd ASA. I met a lot of young men who eventually finished their training and went off to fight in Vietnam. Most of their names and faces escape my memory now but their courage and their enthusiasm still are remembered. Thank you for sharing these photographs.

James Connor		02-Sep-2008 03:07
Hi, I was at a place called Edgmeed which was on the old base. Im an Army brat but the place I was in had nothing to do with the service. We were ontop of a hill overlooking the hospital, gym, and pool. I was there in about 1978. We used 2 baricks, a rec hall, admin bldg, 5 houses. Soposadly Edgmeed owend the pool but leased it to the city. Allso owned the hospital and gym. If any one knows about Edgmeed please let me know. We had a softball team one year and allso a bowling team.

Carol (Boling) Short		30-Aug-2008 20:54
My husband was just looking at pictures of my father and saw he had on a t-shirt that said Camp Wolters on it, so I started browsing the internet to see what I could find and stumbled upon your wonderful site. Dad was drafted in March 1942 but I'm not sure if he went to Minnesota first or if it was Texas so need to apply for his military papers and learn more about his time in the Army. Can't tell you how much I appreciate that you brought part of my dad's past to life for me. I tried to get some information from him a few years before he died but he suffered permanent brain damage from a motorcycle accident he had in 1958 so there were many things he knew he should know but just couldn't recall it anymore. He passed away when he was 75 in 1993 so now it's up to me to put the puzzle together for my niece so I can pass on whatever genealogy information I have collected for the past 30 plus years. God bless all of you who serve our country with pride, who stand up for our rights as American citizens. We pray for you every day and appreciate your service to our country. Your patriotism is a thing of pride and we appreciate all you do.

Jessica		08-Aug-2008 13:48
Hi, My husband is training at Fort Wolters right now and has a day pass this weekend so I have to pick him up. I've tried mapquesting directions but it never gives me straight directions on how to get there. I'm worried I will get lost. I will be coming from Dallas, TX. I would appreciate any help. Thanks!

Gennie Merrifield		07-Aug-2008 22:08
I'm only beginning to learn about Fort Wolters. I was wondering if annuals were made of the trainees during each session? Thanks for any information!

Debbie		01-Aug-2008 17:03
TO MATT FISH: I would love to see the pictures you have. Can you contact me?

Franklin P. Uroda		16-Jul-2008 23:24
Hi, I was the Catholic Chaplain at Fort Wolters (June 71-Nov 72). For me it's pretty eerie to visit the post: in my mind I replay the sights and sounds of the men and aircraft back then. Whew! I had a great time being Chaplain. I live in Tyler, Tx now.

Guest		06-Jul-2008 22:33
My father-in-law Lee W. Dreves was stationed at Ft.Wolters from 1943-1944. He recently passed and my husband and I were curious if anyone had any information about him, old photos or anything. He was from Sioux City,Ia. We enjoyed looking at the web site and look forward to any information anyone has. Cynthia Dreves

Tracy Blunk		13-Jun-2008 21:48
JAMES TRAVIS I am looking for James who was stationed at Fort Walters sometime around 1940- 1946. He would probably be deceased, so I am also looking for any children or relatives of his. He is a friend of one of my relatives and from what I was told, he was born in Montreal/Quebec Canada in the early 1900's. He was in the Army as enlisted. He at sometime lived in St.Louis,Missouri,which is where he supposedly enlisted. There is a chance he also was stationed in Chicago, Illinois or Mississippi. If anyone has any knowledge of this James,please email me at ttravi02@hotmail.com. I am doing a family biography so any information would be extremely helpful. I also have a pic of James if interested, just email me.

BETTY BOYCE		10-Jun-2008 21:04
i am looking for a marine named Dennis Kaskovich J.R. who was vacationing in barbados with his parents in 1989 or1990 your waitress all the best from BARBADOS

Guest		27-May-2008 20:00
I am looking for someone that was enlisted at camp walters, I am not really sure what year it was. The person I am looking for is named Clarence E. Williams. I know he was stationed there and that is all I know. If you could help with any information, or anyone that could help me, please e-mail me at smallfrye35@yahoo.com. Thank you very much for any information. stacie frye

mike vigus		20-Apr-2008 21:25
It is nice to see the photos of Ft. Wolters. It is quite nostalgic for me. I spent my growing up years there. My father Raymond E. Vigus was stationed there from 1960 until 1968. My friends and I covered a lot of ground on that base with our bikes. I believe I recognize just about every building that shows up on these old picture sites. This base is kind of like my Home Town (Wolters Village that is. I learned to play baseball and other sports here and even how to make a snowman in the winter. It did get very cold and snowy at times. I remember the Base being integrated when the Town Mineral Wells was still segregated. I have a lifetime of memories from this place even though I only spent 8 of my 54 years there. Mike Vigus

Eddie Carpenter		02-Apr-2008 03:12
Contact info: E. Carpenter, 328th Army Band, Oct. 66-May 68 Sousa----eddie0623@gmail.com

Guest		02-Apr-2008 03:07
Eddie Carpenter eddie0623@gmail.com 328th Army Band, Ft Wolters, TX Oct. 66-May 68.

Eddie Carpenter		02-Apr-2008 02:20
R. McElwee, Schuler, Keiser, VanZanbergen, Schneider, Matos, Skillern, Wong, Reisenhour (?) Chirello(?) , Shank(?)

Guest		11-Mar-2008 20:59
Hey Eddie I was in the band with you. You played the sousaphone I was a trombone player. Have been in contact with some guys you might remember. Visited wolters in 1995 took pics, even our old barrack was still standing. Post your e mail addy and I'll get in touch BS

Eddie Carpenter		06-Feb-2008 05:21
I was with the 328th Army Band when it came to Ft. Wolters from Brooklyn Army Terminal in Oct. 66. A staged marching into Ft. Wolters picture was taken soon after arrival. Our primary assignment seemed to be graduation ceremonies and every kind of parade from rodeo to scouts. I was discharged May 68. Any memories of band and/or pictures?

Diana Orrantia		29-Jan-2008 23:23
I am proud to say that I was born in Beech Army Hospital in November of 1965! My dad, Arturo V. Orrantia, was stationed at Camp Wolters during that time! I hope someone remembers him! While I was too young to remember any of it at all really, I have never let my parents beautiful memory of their time there and in Mineral Wells die! I visit every year because I try to imagine the beauty of hundreds of helicopters in the early morning sky as my parents have described it! Thank you to all who served our country, which allows us the freedoms we have now! Thanks Dad, especially! Diana Orrantia-2008

Pam McDaniel		27-Jan-2008 00:18
My father was a trainer at the fort durring the mid to late 50s. His name was William "Bill" Headrick. I would like to know if anyone that sees these knew him, as he died when I was young and would love to hear something about him. Thanks. Also I heard he got a medal for landing a chopper safely when the engine failed. my email is mcdt1@hillcountrytx.net

J. Wade		19-Jan-2008 19:57
I attended Camp Dallas at Fort Walters in the summer of 1964. All the instructors assured us it was worse than boot camp. After on shift of KP, you were very careful about what you ate at the mess hall. It was rumored that the mess sergeant also had the PX rights and increased his sales by serving less than palatable fare in the mess hall. The nights were hot and the days were hotter. Lots of memories - good and bad!

Matt Fish		19-Jan-2008 03:40
I just came across my grandfather's old pictures from his basic for WWII. There are about a hundred pictures of Fort Wolters and the soldiers who trained with him. SOme are labeled, some are not, but the funny thing is that some of the pictures resemble some of the buildings pictured here - excpet they were taken in 1942. I would love to hear from anyone who may be interested - I am sure some of these pictures are valuable to any families of soldiers who served here....

Dennis Kaskovich		24-Dec-2007 03:33
WORWAC 71-31 and 71-37 at Rucker. Active duty 70-75. Last duty: 121st Avn C0/Ft Benning '75. Eventually discharged from IRR as CW3. Very fond memories......thanks.

usmcsky		16-Dec-2007 21:25
My step-dad graduated flight school and eventually taught there. In fact, I had an uncle that either graduated or taught there. If the names Fletcher or Doughty mean anything to visitors... that was them. I too lived there in the 70's and spent most of the 80's on that raquetball court. 90's I spent occasional weekends visiting the National Guard training facility there but the closest I get now is the old Quonset Hut called Woody's. Really neat finding this site.

Phillip S.		04-Oct-2007 17:35
I lived for 2 years in a house at Fort Wolters housing complex during the late 1970's. The hospital was almost new. There were many, many vacant buildings The city operated the gym as a recreation center and equipment barn in one of the copter maintenance buildings. Played a lot of racquetball with Corny and Dennis. Occasionally do all day Saturday beer joint crawls around town. Worked at EDO-Aire Mitchell

Andy chambers		15-Aug-2007 23:33
I went to ROTC camp there, at Camp Dallas, in the summer of 1961. One of the highlights was going on an all night hike and getting "bombed" with small bags of flour by a piper cub type plane that buzzed us while we were walking through the bush. I still remember getting up in the middle of the night and having to roll down the tent flaps when a storm would come up. There was also the military ball at the Baker Hotel.

Mark McCord		04-Nov-2006 03:14
I came to Fort Wolters in December, 1969 for flight training. I was medically eliminated after several months and was assigned to Beach Army Hospital. I was a clerk in the sergeant majors office working for the Adjutant. I also worked as a projectionist at the Post Theater. I remember Mineral Wells quite well. Remember the Chalet? Possum Kingdom Reservior? Bill's Hamburgers? That was about the only place you could eat real late at night! Mountaineer Lanes? Sonic Drive-in? DewDrop Inn? I was there until March 1974. They were closing the base and I got reassigned to Fort Hood Darnall Army Hospital. Had some good times - and some bad ones too.

Lloyd Elliott		15-Jul-2006 18:36
Adding to D. Fincher's comment: I was a Camp Dallas alumnus of 1939, when close order drill still involved "Squads left" and "Squads right' commands, and "Right shoulder arms" was still executed in three counts rather than four. We slept on cots with ticks stuffed with straw from a few bales thrown in the Company Street on the day of our arrival. We amused ourselves in off hours by capturing tarantulas, putting them in pastboard boxes and watching them fight. Occasionally, we would shinny up the center pole of someones pyramidal tent on the sly and impale his Spingfield '03 on the center pin of the pole through the hinged port of the butt plate, and leave it pointing triumphantly to the sky.

D. Fincher		18-Jun-2006 22:03
I have read most of the descriptions about Camp Wolters but fail to read anything about it's being a summer ROTC camp for the Dallas and Ft. Worth schools. The summer camp was called CAMP DALLAS and lasted a month. Dallas schools had a very large contingent and traveled by chartered train to the camp. Those from Ft. Worth traveled by bus or by private car. The encampment was located just north and west of the main gate. The students were housed in 8 men squad tents. I was between the 9th and 10th grades in 1945 and attended the camp.

Bruce Schirmer		19-Apr-2006 16:14
These photos bring back some memories. I was stationed at Ft Wolters in 1966. I passed under that arch with the OH23 and TH55 copters many times. While Mineral Wells was not one of my favorite places at the time, it's nice to look back at it 40 years later and see that something remains of the post. Thanks for the pix..

Jeff Wilson		21-Dec-2005 02:04
I retired from the National Guard. We trained about every two months or so at Ft. Wolters. Past the abandoned hospital are the vehicle and training sites. We used the rifle ranges to quailify. There is a 500 meter range, that the Marines and marksmanship tournaments used. There are newer buildings that those shown in these really nice photos. thanks Jeff Wilson 1st Sgt. retired.

Brian Dasher		02-Oct-2005 07:33
Had read about Ft. Wolters and never really thought much about it until I was down in Palo Pinto County for court one morning, and while waiting for a client to show up, was reading the bulletin board in the courthouse lobby, which was advertising a softball tournament held at Fort Wolters Softball complex #2. Since then, I've learned a lot about Ft. Wolters. God knows that we can't fund everything. But, having been, as a child, around for a base closure where I lived, I never really thought about what happens afterward. Now, Mineral Wells is a ghost town, hard to imagine in its prime. These photos do some small measure of justice to illustrate that feeling.

Dave Beedon		03-Jun-2005 23:40
Nice documentation---thanks. It saddens me to see a facility get abandoned and decline, even if I don't have a personal interest in it. The "past/present" shot of the Art and Crafts Center is especially poignant because of the contrast between the two scenes. So many things will never again happen there: supplies brought in, stored, and disbursed; projects started and completed; construction tips shared; praise offered for a job well done... A similar mood was captured at Fort Ord by another PBASEr:http://www.pbase.com/greg802/image/18326223.

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