2006: Subject: Squadron visit Mike Walker VA-15, 1969-1971, and I met up in Norfolk for a recent USS FDR reunion. We have been in touch with our squadron VFA-15, and requested permission to visit them at Oceana. We were met at the gate by two of our officers and "Welcomed Home", what a feeling for us after 35 years! We met our CO, CDR Pete "Felix" Matisoo, and many other Valions, toured the hanger, including the AT shop (nothing has changed, they're still hanging around the shop.) We also, received ear plugs and headed out to the flight line to welcome 4 of our birds as they came in, including our XO, CDR Keith "Judge" Hoskins. What a rush to be on the "line" again, feel the heat, and smell the exhaust. The following day we toured Naval Station Norfolk, and boarded the USS Eisenhower for guided tours and an open flight deck to explore. Huge! I'll send some more pictures. Maybe some can be added to VA-15's page of active duty squadron photos, and some to the off-duty photos. We picked up some more Skyraider Valions at the reunion, I told Mike that we need to put more of an effort into increasing our A4 Valions. We have two cruise books from our Westpack cruises of 1966 and 1967, retained by one of our members, so I'll work on scanning pictures. We have a large inventory of quality pictures that I'll compile and probably forward as a CD. They will really improve the squadron page. This trip was a once in a lifetime experience! We visited Virginia beach and opened dialog with a number of hotels for our next Valion Veterans Association reunion, hopefully including a group visit to the squadron. The CO and XO were very welcoming. I mentioned the Skyhawk Association in our conversations, and they were most impressed in how our veterans groups are so supportive and have retained their "Pride". They want this communication and association with the squadron to continue, and grow. So, I'll keep you posted. Will McManus VA-15 Skyhawk Association SDO "None Finer!"