Date: Sun, 8 Oct 2000 16:33:06 EDT

great job mates from BB 62 sailor well done

Date: Sun, 08 Oct 2000 18:53:21 -0700

My curiosity got tweaked when I found my daughter looking through old photos I had taken in SEA and I Napstered a copy of "Ride Captain Ride" by the Blues Image and remembered that I had heard it was about the Pueblo in 1971. I found this story which refutes that. Alas, the Pueblo genesis made a better story. While I searched the WWW I also found the following letter in the Pueblo Vets Web page. (Letter Not Shown)

Date: Wed, 01 Mar 2000 13:17:35

I am a retired MSgt (intelligence) who is now a civil servant. I have a young Lt working for me who doesn't know what the Pueblo was really all about. When I told him that the song, Ride Captain Ride by Blues Image was about the Pueblo, he didn't believe it. Please help me set this young man straight on what really happened. Thank you. Jane Cappe, USAF Ret

I was a COMSEC custodian in the USAF at Nakhon Phanom AB in Thailand and remember having to burn a lot of crypto keying material (mostly KW-26 and KW-7 if memory serves) immediately after the Pueblo was captured. Since, As a civilian, I have worked in the Gulf during the Gulf War and later in Bosnia. Kosovo is next and then maybe retirement. Ron Orr (USAF 1963-1968, Air Force Communications Service)

Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 19:47:56 -0700

Hello Sir: I had the privilege of interviewing Captain Bucher some years ago. I would like to know if there has been any thought given to erecting a statue to Captain Bucher and the other members of his crew who were captured and tortured by the North Koreans back in the late 1960's. Also, I would like to know if a current member of the U.S. Congress has introduced legislation linking a 'normalization' of U.S. diplomatic relations with North Korea (a move that I adamantly oppose) to the return of the USS Pueblo and an apology by the government of North Korea. I am interested in learning if there are any members sponsoring legislation because it appears that the Clinton administration is moving in the direction of normalizing relations (possibly before the end of Clinton's term).

Regards, P.S. Please send my best regards to Captain Bucher and other members of the Pueblo crew.

Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 17:34:00 -0400

I am preparing a column on attacks upon US warships like the Pueblo Liberty, Cole, Maine, Panay and Pearl Harbor's fleet. Questions: was the Pueblo within Korean Waters before she was attacked. Was Cdr.Bucher court martialed or did he reesign his commission. Is he still alive?

Appreciate your response. thank you. paul dunn, former naval person

Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 14:40:01 -0500

Good web site. Needs to be better known incident. Why is there no information, on this site or anywhere else, on USS Banner? I know it existed - I was on it - but nothing to be found. I may have a couple of pictures of the Banner in my stuff. Are you interested? Nothing on Pueblo - she was still at sea, on the way over to Japan, when my enlistment was up. I think my last cruise was cut short because a few of us were due to get out, but that may just have been scuttlebutt. I was a CT(I)2, and my time aboard ended in spring 1967. Good (in a way) to be able to see stuff from back then...also sad, because of what happened to Pueblo and you guys aboard. I will never know why it did not happen to us instead. I always thought, back then, that if something happened, we would disappear without a trace, contrary to the stories aboard about how the US would move the whole fleet to save us. Sorry you proved my suspicions true, except for the "without a trace" part. Guess the pesky news media messed that part of it up for them.

Regards, Bob

Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 16:13:21 -0500

Hi. I'm trying to get some additional info on the Pueblo. Are there, anywhere, any plans of the ship? The layout of her decks? Anything like that? What was her compliment? Her range? What kind of engines did she have? Etc. Just basic logistical and tecnical information on AGER-2. The more, the better. Web based stuff would be especially useful.

Thanks, John Brewer

Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 00:48:19 -0400

I found your website a few months ago and it brought back memories. Thanks to your website I was able to read six of the books mentioned in your list. I am currently reading Commander Bucher's book. I was stationed in Bremerhaven, Germany and Washington. I left the navy in 1963 as a CT2. I remember the Pueblo incident as if it happened yesterday. I regard all of you guys as heros. I was prompted to write because of the recent news that our president is thinking about visiting North Korea. I don't know how the crew feels about a visit, but I am against it. Unless it is to remove the Pueblo and bring it home. I feel that North Korea has to return our ship and apologize to the crew before any visits or deals take place. I have e-mailed both Mr. Bush's and Mr. Gore's official websites asking what they intend to do about the Pueblo when they become president.

God Bless Don Copenhagen

Date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000

Hi, there My father is Wendell Leach, your signalman. My name is Darleene Watkins. Thank you for the site and the education it gives folks. I see all the time where if the memory of the sacrifices of the 83 men aboard are not kept alive by the people close to the incident, the government would just as soon let it fade into obscurity. Maybe they are embarrassed by their inability to do anything due to b.s. and red tape. Maybe they hope no one will remember and they will never have to answer to their inaction in the early hours, but folks like you keep the flame alive, thank you so much for your efforts.

Date: Sun, 22 Oct 2000 19:12:24 -0700

My name is James Deaton. I was a Sgt. in the army stationed at the 177th Army Security Agency at Pyong Taek, Korea. I was the person who received the messages from the USS Pueblo the day it was captured. If my memory serves me correctly, I received 3 messages (the top x priority) about 15 minutes apart. The last message that I received stated that it would be the last one because the equipment had to be destroyed (melted down). The other two stated briefly what was happening and that documents were being destroyed. I was proud of the guys that worked with me that day, they did their jobs just as we had been trained to do. Red lights and bells were going off but we relayed the messages on and got a qsl (receipt) for each of them. There was some controversy about the message relayed to Osan Air Base, located about 10 to 15 miles from us, I showed my commcenter commander the receipts that I got. The receipts we received back were in the time limit allowed. We did our job, but I've often wondered about Osan. I was just up there the day before and I saw jet fighter planes all over the air strip. Later my mother sent me a news clip from the Nashville Tennessean newspaper stating that there wasn't any jet air craft available to help the Pueblo within 400 miles. I learned then that you can't always believe what you read in the newspaper. I've been wanting to send this message a long time, but just found your web page. I'm sorry for what you guys had to go through. I honesty believe it could have all been avoided.

Date: Sun, 22 Oct 2000 23:58:10 EDT

I have searched, off and on, for many years for more information about PUEBLO and your wonderful website pretty well ended that search. Great job! I was USNR in the late 60's, and did my active duty as yeoman for RADM Johnson. I was on duty in his office that day when the message traffic came in from the command "cave" about the PUEBLO seizure. As you know, RADM Johnson was at the Sanno Hotel that day and N3 (Captain Everett) immediately was asking for his return to Yokosuka. (Which he did) I met CDR Bucher two times when he visited the Admiral's office. Once, while he was waiting to see the Admiral, he stopped by my desk and talked briefly. Throughout the entire incident, I always remembered those times I talked to him, and felt I really knew someone being held captive. If memory still serves, I believe RADM Johnson made an inspection tour of PUEBLO in Yokosuka. I think I remember him returning to the office angry about something like peanut butter in the mess decks. I also remember when N!, Captain Werdleman, had some dependents come to Building C1, our office. Those are things I will never forget. Nearly all of my tour at CNFJ was consumed by the Pueblo incident. I was kept up on it daily, as part of my job was scanning all the admiral's message traffic each morning and passing on to him the important stuff. Anything about "Clickbeetle" was always given to him. I haven't kept up with the people I worked with at CNFJ, save for a few letters to and from RADM D.F. Smith (Johnson's successor) before he died. He was a true gentleman, but I believe he drank himself to death early on in his retirement. I do not know the fate of Johnson after he sailed from Japan for the last time. Is he still alive? Much has been written about PUEBLO. Good and bad things have been said. ( For many years after I got out, I was afraid to even mention it's name for fear of a security breach. It was 20 years before I even spoke the word "Clickbeetle" aloud.) You guys were and are heroes. Pete Bucher deserved the Congressional Medal, as did, probably, many of you. You survived a great injustice by the military and by LBJ and the band of thieves in Washington at the time. Just wanted to say thanks for the great website, and guess I got carried away. I didn't know any of you except for CDR Bucher, but for over 11 months you were in every minute of my working day, and for over 30 years have been on my mind. Thank you for being great Americans

Earl

Date: Fri, 03 Nov 2000 22:26:30 -0700

My name is Dave Blade, retired CTACM living in Montana. I am concerned by the recent overtures the current administration is making toward North Korea, with the possibility of a visit there by President Clinton. I want to write to my elected officials and fellow Montanans to remind them that along with all the foreign aid the North Koreans get from us, they have something else that belongs to us. I want them to remember the Pueblo. Before getting on my soapbox here, I wanted to check to see if the PVA has a position on a possible Presidential visit, and what position you may have for the disposition of the ship itself.

Thanks for your time and the great website. Cheers

Date: Sun, 05 Nov 2000 00:11:09 -0600

Just a real quick note to you, to let you know that I really enjoyed your web site, and found it very interesting and informing. When I went through the the U.S. Air Force Survival School, we where briefed bit about the Pueblo Crew and their treatment while being held captive by North Korea, and after reading all the information on your site. I truly believe that not only did they all "Return with Honor", but also served their Country with the upmost dignity.

Sincerely Arlie C. Griffis, Jr. SSgt / USAF Aerial Gunner - AC-130H SPECTRE Gunship 16th SOS - Hurlburt Field, Florida

Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2000 21:10:50 -0800

I was pleased to find your website. I was hoping that Capt. LM Bucher would have an email link, wanted to let him know that I was thinking about him on this Veterans Day. I was honored to meet him while working at a hardware store in Rancho Bernardo, CA (near Poway). My father was involved in the debriefing and also protecting Rose Bucher from the media during that whole time, so I grew up hearing of the USS Pueblo and Capt Lloyd Bucher. I was amazed to see his name on a check he was writing at the hardware store I worked at. I explained who my father was. Over a few visits to the hardware store I had expressed my interest in his experience and he actually stood outside, and talked to me at length. It was very interesting, as was the man telling. I worked with a man at the time who was a Navy Seal that was involved in a plan for a rescue attempt. It was an amazing moment for me to be able to introduce the man I worked with (Mark) to Capt Bucher. Anyway, just remembering people who touched my life!

Suzanne Ashton (was Hartman)

Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2000 13:27:50 -0800

I visited Pueblo in Yokusuka Japan 3 week before it was captured. Had good friend stationed on her. He and his wife visited us after he was released by the North Koreans; He was from Havana Arkansas. I have lost touch with him and would like to have his e-mail or home address if I may.. Thank you if you can help me with this matter. His name was Sydney Jerry Karnes and mine is Paul M. Allen. I worked with him at KAMISEYA Japan and I was on duty when the Pueblo was being assaulted and captured. I was behind the receiving teletype from the Pueblo as it was being attacked.

Date: Wed, 8 Nov 2000 06:14:07 -0600

Dear Sir: I just visited your site and it brings back many memories. I was a member of the pre-com detail for the USS Samuel Gompers (AD37) and shared the same barracks in Bremerton. I remember the day vividly when we brought the injured sailor on board with the injured back. However, its been many years and I can't put a name to him. To the best of my recollection he was a Radarman and in considerable pain. I was a PN1 and in charge of the Personnel Office at the time and processed his paper work. I remember we of the Gompers were told we were the closest ship to Pueblo at the time of boarding and capture. I can tell you this, there were a bunch of pissed sailors aboard Gompers that wanted desperately to sail at flank speed to render any assistance possible. Our captain stated on the 1MC that permission was with held pending White House approval. We were only a Destroyer Tender, but did have missile batteries and desperately wanted to test them. My hat goes off to you and all members of Pueblo. Should any information I may have or recall be necessary or even remotely be beneficial, I offer my services. Larry D. Hetzer

Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2000 23:09:15 -0800 (PST)

Hi,

I totally enjoyed your website and think that it's awesome that people contact you that were somehow involved. Technology huh? Veterans Day is special to me, it always has been. I've always been deeply thankful to all the men and women who have sacraficed so much, even given their lives in the many wars. Although I feel fortunate that I have not been in war, I don't think there is anything besides that, that actually earns the pride I have for YOU and all vets. I can only begin to understand what sort of experiences wartime brings, I can only imagine intensity... most, if not all of the time. You know, I remember living in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba - the tv station ( I think there were two) said that the war in Vietnam was over. Although I was only about 7 years old I remember vividly thinking 'how can they say that', in my mind even then, it was far from over for anyone involved. The guy Mark, that I worked with that was a Navy SEAL slotted to do a rescue attempt....(mentioned in the original email) he shared some war stories with me, that deepened my respect and admiration for vets. You, all of you... are amazing people, forever in my heart, forever brave, for ever admired and remembered. So, THANK YOU!!! It's not often that I get to personally thank a vet, so excuse my long winded email- just want to let you know how grateful I am to you! Thanks again for your reply and asking that my message be passed on to Bucher - I truly feel honored to have met him, and to have received an email from you! Suzanne

BS Date: Sun, 19 Nov 2000 12:25:14 -0500

Where can I get a copy of the movie about the USS Pueblo. Respectfully, Ray Le Sage Oakton, VA

_____North Pole High School Students' Questions_________

Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2000 14:14:59 -0900

Hello, I am a history teacher at North Pole High School in North Pole, Alaska. My World History students are currently studying about the Cold War and are very interested in the Pueblo incident and the subsequent experiences of the men kept captive for 11 months. I would like to have them contact by email veterans of that amazing event. I have approximately 45 tenth graders and wonder of emails from that number of kids would be overwhelming? I could also collect their questions and send one email, although the experience is muchmore meaningful to students if they have been personally contacted. Please let me know what might be the best method. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Pat Behner, history teacher, North Pole High School -- Theodora in another life

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 09:11:53 -0800

Dear so and so Hi how are you doing? Im fine , my name is mike . the pueblo incident has fascinated me for many years. I belive that what the Koreans did was uncalled for. Hi I have a question or two to ask you when the Koreans attacked your ship why didn't you or some other people in the ship go on the top with a gun and try to hold off the Koreans for a while so everyone could destroy the evidence? Hi there again I have another question. What did you get to eat each day. Mike Bruno North Pole High Scholll Student

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 17:17:46 GMT

Dear Pueblo crew member, Hello my name is Nicole HIntz and I am from North Pole High School. My World history class has just started looking into the Pueblo incident of 1968 and we have also read over some of your website and anecdotes. The things I have read were shocking to me and I would not have known how to deal with everything you guys did. What was going through your mind through those 11 months? How did those 11 months being held prisoner change your life? I think that you guys had tremendous courage to be able to survive and come out of that still alive. Take Care. Sincerely, Nicole Hintz

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 17:12:46 GMT

Dear Crew Members: I visited your website and thought it would be neat to keep in touch with one of you. I was astonished when I read through some of your links. I could never imagine the pain and agony you all went through on your antaginizing journey. I read throughthe story that Stu wrote on "Hell Week". YOu all must have been very strong and cooperative to live through that terrible disaster. I couldn't imagine being beat day after day when they are telling your folks that your o.k. THat's messed up. But I have to admit, I liked the sign's that you all showed in all the pictures. I would have done the same thing. I bet you all were scared when you first left, then to be captured and then captured. It must have been tough. I know that this might be a personal question, but were you guys really on international waters, or do you think you might have been on Korean waters?? I just don't see why they would attack for no reason. That is still a question in history class. It would be nice if you could explain, what was it like for you all to be attacked unexpectedly? Thank You, Stormie Hart

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 08:20:14 AKST

Dear Pueblo crew member, Hello, my name is Stephanie Flayac and I'm a sophmore in high school. My world history class visited your website and read about the Pueblo Incident of 1968 and also personal anecdotes from the survivors. First off, I would like to say I'm sorry for how awful this experience must have been for you. Learning about everything that you went through is both amazing and shocking. Being a survivor, how has this esperience changed your life? I imagine this event would be a constant memory in your mind. The two anecdotes I read were by a man named Stu Russell. He described the trip to the prison camp and the train ride that took you there. He said that you guys endured numerous beatings and that he could feel and sense the hatred that the Korean soldiers had for the Americans. As you were being taken prisoner, what was going through your mind? Did you think that you would get out of this ordeal alive? I can't imagine how difficult something such as this could have been for someone. Personally, I don't think I would be able to deal with it. All of you men had great courage and strength to have survived such an experience. Sincerely, Stephanie Flayac

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 08:24:37 AKST

Dear Pueblo crewmember, Hi. My name is Josh. I am sixteen and a sophmore at North Pole High School. I read a couple of the first-hand accounts from the crewmembers of the USS Pueblo and to sum it all up, I can tell it sucked. What was your job aboard the USS Pueblo? Did you have weapons aboard? If so, why did you not shoot back? I thank you for taking your time to read this and I await your reply. Sincerely, Josh

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 09:27:50 -0800 (PST)

Deear Pueblo Crewmember, My name is Maja Colelli. I'm a student at North Pole High School in North Pole, Alasksa. when i read about the Pueblo Incident I was very curious about it. So my class and I got on the web and looked at everything. The one thing that caught my eye was the "Hawaiian good luck sign." My friend and I thought that that was really funny and smart. It must have been very awful for you and your crewmembers when you were in prison. Exactly how bad was it? My father told me a little from what he had learned in school and on the news. Also do you still think that you and the crew were in international waters? -Maja

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 11:34:04 -0600

Hello, my name is Nita and I'm from North Pole High School. We've been finding out about the Pueblo Incident lately and now I have a chance to e-mail you and find out about it in more detail. I've read about "Hell Week" on your website, but I'd like to know what your personal experience of "Hell Week" is, if you don't mind me asking. Were you uys mad at the one guy who didn't flick off the camera? I'm curious to find out about the incident. I hope to hear from you soon. Thanks for your time, bye! -Nita

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 19:30:21 -00

I just wanted you to let you know that my class and I all think that you guys are heros. I wanted to know what kind of training did you haft to go through to be prepared for this?I am sure that there is no training for this but but what kinds were there? How did you guys get ahold of the medicine that you had? Did you haft to were the helmets after you did your business in them. I think that if there were more people in the world like you it would be a better place.

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 09:33:40 -0800

Dear Pueblo Crew Member, My Name is Jenn Iler, and I am a student at North Pole High School. It is very shocking, all the horrible things that the North Koreans out you through. I do not think I could have made it through 11 months of torture. You are very brave. What was your first reaction when you were being fired upon? How did you feel? I would have been very scared. It is sad, all the stuff you were put through.I think you should have been given the chance to explain. Sincerly, Jenn Iler

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 09:40:08 -0800 (PST)

Dear Pueblo crewmember(s), My name is Charles Knapton. I'm 16 and i live in north pole Alaska. this letter is an assignment for my world history class on the Korean war. When i first got this assignment i didn't really want to do it, but after reading a few of your stories I'm glad I'm doing it and I'm glad you and the other veterans set up this site, so others could see what you went through. After reading some of the stories on the site i feel so out raged at the way the north Koreans treated you. you were just following orders. they had no right to treat you as spys. even though you weren't at war thats the way they should have treated you, as p.o.w.. to say the least it was .... rude! i know the official position of the united states is that you broke no laws, Korean or international. but i would like to know, in your opinion and your understanding of your orders, were you spying on the Koreans? i would also like to ask you what is your understanding of the mission for the U.S.S. Pueblo? Cencerly, Charles knapton

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 08:43:31 AKST

Dear Pueblo Crewmember, My name is Scott Georgell. I live in North Pole, AK. I am a sophmore at North Pole High School. I have read about the Pueblo incident on the website. The anecdotes that I have read on the website were just shocking. I dont see how all 82 of you managed to survive the horrable conditions. While you were captive, what did you think about every night while you were lying there trying to go to sleep? At times durring the eleven months that you were captive did you ever just want to give up? I am realy interested in this incident, so I would be realy happy to get a reasponse. Sincerly, Scott Georgell

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 12:07:53 -0800 (PST)

Veterans of USS Pueblo After reading some anedotes from your experiences in Korea, I've had a couple of questions to ask some crew members. In retrospect, what is something you did while you were prisoner that you would go back in time and do over again? I know this was a bad experience for you, and probably something you will never forget. Ever since, have you had a hatred for Koreans and ever thought malice towards them? If it were the other way around, that we caught the Koreans as prisoners, would you have treated them differently than you were treated? If so, then what would you have differently. Thanks for your time. Jason Gallagher

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 20:11:52 GMT

Dear Veterans of Pueblo, My class and I are learning about the Pueblo Incident and I wanted to ask a couple questions. Since eveyone was beat a lot, how did anyone kept their sanity while being held prisoner? Second, who thought of the idea to stick your middle finger out at the camera? Thank you for reading this letter and I hope to hear from someone soon. Sincerely, Yvonne Bifelt

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 20:15:17 GMT

To the Veterans of the USS Pueblo It amazes me reading about this incident and wondering that this actually happened. Many people don't get the credit that they deserve that suffered in Korea for so long. It suprizes me that the Koreans actually kept the crew members captive for so long before releasing them. I was wondering when they initially took the crew captive from their spy ship if the crew tried to struggle or run or anything. And also if the U.S. ever did take actions against the Koreans for doing these awfull actions to these inocent american people. It's sad how many people havn't ever even heard of this incident because this is truly a great historical event which needs to be honored and respected. Scincerely, Tim Henry

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 11:22:54 -0800

Dear veterans of the Pueblo, Hi my name is Andrew M. Behner and I'm in my mom's class and we are studying the cold war and the Pueblo incident. This was a very important event because it was after the war and so it was brought up in our class. i have some questions because i think we might have a test on it and would like to know as much as i could on the subject. I would like to ask you some questions that I'm not clear on. My first might be based on false information so correct me if I'm wrong. I was told that your ship had been warned about being in Korean waters and that they would become aggresive if you came any nearer to shore. If this is true then what actions were taken to avoid confrontation? I was wondering how big the impact of the blast was. Were you immediately aware that your ship had been hit and was sinking? What was used to sink it? After the ship had sunk how long did it take for the Koreans to come to pick you up and in what did they pick you up in? What kind of treatment was given to you? I read that you were denied medical treatment for a period of time, were you also denied food? I have read the anecdote at your website called Hell Week and thought that it was a really cool thing to flick off all the cameras but those are the words of a high school student. i would completely understand if you didnt want to answer any of these questions. Sincerely, Andy M. Behner

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 12:24:11 -0800 (PST)

Veterans of USS Pueblo, Hi my name is Carl Gebhardt and my history class has been studying the Pueblo incident. I read that you guys were captured by the Koreans and beat on a regular basis. That must have really sucked.I can't even imagine the pain that you guys went through.Hell week sounds like the worst part of it all.Being beaten until you told who's idea the flipping off was.Was there anything that particularly happened there that left longterm scarring or effected your life?How did you deal with all the pain without breaking during hell week?I feel sorry for anybody that had to go through that and I hope it never happens again. Sincerely, Carl Gebhardt

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 11:41:30 -0800

Dear:Veterans of the uss pueblo Hi, my name is Zack Hansen and I live in North Pole, Alaska. My dad was in the end of the Korean War, He never fought although he did serve a few months in Korea. He also served 2 tours in Vietnam as a lerp in live combat. Although he was never captured he was wounded. I can never know the full feelings of the torture you went through. The attack on your ship must have been more terrifying then I could ever dream. Was this the first time your ship had ever been attacked? what were the thoughts running through your head, were they I must get off this ship, we have to get out of here, or maybe something completely different? when your ship was attacked how did the men of the U.S.S. Pueblo get of the ship, how long did you wait in the water, and was the water of freezing temperature? The food you were fed, was it the type that would just barely keep you alive? How were you treated for sleeping conditions? It would be very interesting to hear what my dad might have gone through if he was in live combat and was captured. Sincerely, Zack D. Hansen

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 12:34:12 -0800 (PST)

My name is Matt mccoy and first of all I just want to say that you are very brave and you have a lot of courage to do what you did. I have a few questions to ask you guys. It sounded like you guys were torchered. What did you guys eat over there. Did they make you eat bugs while you were over there? Did they beat you or hit you alot? I just want'ed to say that I think you guys were and are very brave because I could have never gone through what you guys went through. You guys were all Alone in north korea with No body else to help you guys. Thank you for your Time Matt Mccoy

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 11:36:40 -0900

Crew members of the USS Pueblo, From what I have read at the USS Pueblo website, I have realized you are real suvivors. I don't think I could have lived in the conditions you did. How did this experience change your life? Do you have any regrets of joining the military afterthe experiences you had in North Korea? I'm sorry you had to go through that. Sincerely, Reynold Udarbe

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 11:40:39 -0900

Dear Veterans of the USS Pueblo, From the literature found on the Pueblo website you are real survivors. It must have been hard to have endured the circumstances you and your crew members exprienced from the North Koreans. I don't think I could have endured the circumstances that you and your crew members had. How has your experience in North Korea changed your life and your opinion toword the Koreans, the millitary, and life in general. I'm sorry you had to go through that. Sincerely, Greg Wood

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 20:39:49 GMT

Dear Veterans of the Uss Pueblo, My name is David Gillitzer, and I go to school at North Pole High School. I have just finished reading "HELL WEEK BEGINS" by Stu Russell. It sounds like the North Koreans were very strict and mean. How many times a day did the North Koreans beat you? After the second man in charge told "Robot" that giving the finger in your pictures was organized, and Stu Russell said that if he did something like that again he was going to be killed, did he act up again? What were the rooms that the North Koreans cept you in like? What did they make you do during the daytime? How do you think this incident changed your life? I'm sorry about what happened. Sincerly, David Gillitzer

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 12:50:47 -0800 (PST)

Dear Veterans of the USS Pueblo, Thank you for posting that information on the internet. Every one should know the bad things that happened to you. Some of the things you wrote on the site were not only shocking but it seems strange that people could actually so that kind of thing just to get your captain to sign a paper saying that you were spies. Although it didn't seem like is was all that terrifying of an experience because of the way it was written. It seemed so nonchalant. But it may just be because you had to tell the story so many times. That was truly a bad thing that happened to you. Did you get any kind of medals for being able to survive this kind of thing? Do you think your captain felt any shame for signing the confession? Or how do you feel about it? Thank you for reading this letter. Logan Davis

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 11:46:45 AKST

Dear veterans of the uss Pueblo The things done to you were unthinkable. I was appalled by the atrocities that were done against you. One of the most intriguing incidents was hell week. The most interesting part was the incident when you gave the middle finger in the picture. That was some thing I never would have thought of. And even if I had I never would have fessed up to it. I have two questions for you. First is, what gave you the Idea to flip off the camera. And last is, Im going to the military academy after high school and I'd like to know if you have any advice for me. Sincerely, Terry Wubbold

Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2000 00:17:12 -0000

hello, i think what has happened to you was very disgusting and uncalled for.i think that what they did was not cool. and i think that you guys are real heros.i think that it was very stupid that the president had the captain of your boat go to court because he signed a note for what we were doing. why did the people of usa have you go to court? what do you think of what happened when you were captured joey Hall

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 18:21:09 -0800

Veterans of the USS Pueblo Wow! that is an incredible experience to go through. After reading these stories I have to ask how did you survive all the torture that you went through? I don't think that I could have survived all of the beatings. How has these experience changed your life for the better? and for the worst? I think you men have really inspired a lot of people including me. Thank you for sharing your experience, Jessica Herpst of North Pole High School

Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2000 22:27:54 -0900

Dear Veterans, My name is Christopher Ballek, I'm 15 almost 16 and I go to North Pole High School. I do not know how you surveyed such an ordeal. It must have been very painful. I respect all of you for your strength and courage. You must have got pritty use to all the pain from being beat constantly. How could you stand all that pain? What did you do in your offtime? what did you think of in your offtime? What happend to the ship? I think you are the real men of honor. P.S. Good Bye and I look forward to your replay.

Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2000 15:19:56 -0900

Greetings from North Pole, Alaska Hi my name is Jeanette and I am 16 years old. I would just like to say that I am just so glad that so many of you made it back. I heard that one person died, could you tell me how? I cant imagine what that must of been like for you. What were the living conditions while you were held prisoner? Thank you for taking the time to read and answer my letter. Sincerely, Jeanette

Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2000 17:34:38 -0800 (PST)

Dear Mr. Stu Russell, My name is Jessica. I'm a student at North Pole High School in North Pole, Alaska. I was looking at uss pueblo web site when I came across this anecdote that caught my eye,"A Transition: From Sailor to Captive." Which talks about the first week or so in Korea. A question I have is how did life in the prison camp change your life? Another question I have is do you believe that the Koreans are justified in what the done to you and your crew mates? Sincerely, Jessica

Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2000 20:06:09 -0900

Dear crewmembers, I read everything on your web site and thought it was all unbelieveable. Not to many people can go throught that kind of beating and not talk. How did you guys do that? You guys were there for six months, was it always like that over did they start the beating later? I would've talk after two months maybe depends on what info they wanted. When you guys were attack were you in Korean waters or Internation water? Don't worry about this question if you have answered it already to my friends. Your friend, Willis Schoonmaker

Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2000 20:54:13 -0900

Dear USS Pueblo Crew members, WOW what an experience you all have gone through just to serve the United States of America. As you know your efforts are greatly appreciated. In World History we are studing the Cold War and how we9Ak and US) took part in these extrodinary events such as yours. THe Pueblo Incident was one of the studies. Upon visiting you wonderful website I not only learned hoe you were captured but how horribly mistreated you were as Prisioners of War. I aslo got an indepth feeling some of your personal experiecnes. I still have some questions lingering in my mind though. I read that one crew memeber was faced with preduiceness for the first time. I was raised not to hate a person for their background or the color of their outwars apperence. Being very strong and sensitve about this subject what were your emotions and reactions when faced with predudice Korth Koreans? I know that when I'm hungry I want food and don't care about the others around me somtimes. WHen your food was rationed to the crew how did they reat. Was there comotion over who gets what or did you share with the weaker ones. Or was it doled out evenly? THank you for listening to me. HOpe to hear from you soon. Thanks again, Jadelin Craig (A North Pole High School Student.)

Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2000 19:08:01 -0000

To the members of the uss pueblo- My name is Tara Powalski, and I am a student a sophmore at North Pole High School.I am very sorry for the way you had been treated. Exspecially your medical treatment. Hou could you have survived such horrible pain? I know if I was you I probalbly would have killed myself. I read in one of the articels about how many layers of clothes you had to wear, why was that? What kind of things did you think about when you were there? I think it is incredably gross and cruel how they treated you, dont they have human rights? Or was it just because you were American? Please respond soon, and have a happy thanksgiving, im sure you have alot to be thankful for thesedays. sincerely Tara Powalski

Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2000 10:09:33 -0900

Dear crew members, My name is Savannah and I am a sophomore at North Pole High School. In my world history class we read some of the anecdotes about your experiences with the Koreans. I would like to know what your personal idea of the Koreans is. Do you fear them? Do you think that if the Koreans were in our waters then do you think that we would have treated them any different then they treated you? I personally could not have done what you went through. I believe what you went through is probably the hardest thing you would have to go through. Was it? I would appreciate your response the letter. Thank you. Sincerely, Savannah Ebanez

Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2000 14:35:47 -0800

Crewmembers form USS Pueblo- From what I have read it sounds like you guys went through a lot. I can't imagine how something that dramatic would impact my life. Has it changed your feelings towards the Koreans? Do you feel uncomfortable around them? I think all of you guys were very brave and smart to think of flicking off the cameras like that. I just can't believe "Time" magazine printed a story on it. That was stupid on their part. Do you have nightmares, flash backs, or anything like that? Do you have any medical conditions or scars resulting from those 11 months of being prisoner? Thank you. Sincerely, Amanda Kerr

Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2000 23:06:25 -0000

Hello, my name is Paul and I am in Mrs. Behners world history class. We're doin this project thingy and to make a long story short I am e-mailing you guys. I've learned quite a bit about the USS Pueblo, and I've read parts of some of the anecdotes that were posted on your website. Today in someones letter that was read aloud, it was mentioned that one of you that was held prisoner had to hold up your arms horizantally for a long time or they would be punched in the kidney. Well when this was read it sparked a kind of competion amoung some of the students to see who could hold up their arms the longest, not to gloat or anything but I won. I was curious, how long did you guy(s) have to hold your arms? And my second question was, since you guys worked in intelligence did you ever hear about a aircraft called the LRV? I'm pretty sure thats the name and I think it was being developed at around that time. Since that question Isn't really tied into the USS Pueblo I have a third question (sorry bout all the questions im sure all you guys are gettin carpel tunnel from typing so much, ouch, I think i am too). Why did it take 11 monthes for you to be freed? Well those are all of my questions I got, thank you for your time. -Paul

Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2000 21:10:48 -0900

Hi Don and to all of the other crew members of the USS Pueblo who have so graciously responded to "my kids," You have made Thanksgiving real. What else can I say. Something powerful has to happen in order for 15 and 16 year old kids to understand how much they have to be grateful for. You guys did it. Thanks. Happy Thanksgiving. I'm leaving in the am to see my daughter in Anchorage, where she is a freshman at University of Alaska Anchorage. Won't be online again until Monday. Your responses to my world history students are absolutely priceless. Class discussions have been unbelievable. Ultimately, my kids think you are all heroes of the highest degree. Pretty cool. Thanks again and again and again.
Pat ---------------------------------------North Pole High School----------------

Date: Fri, 24 Nov 2000 12:52:17 -0600

Gentlemen: My name is Frank I. Adkins. I was a radarman third class onboard the USS Constellation (CVA -64) and involved in the Gulf of Tonkin incident. As you know there are many stories as to what happened there. We, who were involved and on site, have our story, the Washington Brass have their version. We were there, they weren't. Washington makes the policy decisions, we just do what they direct. That is what the Constitution states and we do our job. History, on the other hand cannot be denied. The truth must be brought to the foreground so that the strength of our country, The children, can be taught the truth, or at least be given both sides of the story. You have done a great job to bring out the truth. You should be proud. Commander Bucher, I wrote you a letter while you were in the Court of inquiry in San Diego,CA. I was a sergeant in the Air Force then. I still have your reply on Pueblo stationary. I have never forgotten the Pueblo nor the Gulf of Tonkin incidents. I want to send you my thanks for remaining true to your hearts and keep the truth flowing. I hope someday this great country of ours will make an effort to get the Pueblo back. I noticed that on the official registry of the Navy she, the USS Pueblo (AGER2) is still on active duty. I thank you again, and I remain a true friend and brother veteran. Frank Irle Adkins

Date: Tue, 05 Dec 2000 20:05:25 -0600

Hi, I would like to thank you for all the information you have provided on this web site. It is very informative and useful. How can I get copies of new paper articles concerning this incident? Although I was only nine years old at the time, I still remember it well. My family was stationed at Naha, Okinawa at the time. I would like to pass on any information I can to my own kids. My name is Robert M. Hagenson Jr., my uncle Jerry was a crewmen on board the U.S.S. Pueblo. Thank You R.M. Hagenson

Date: Thu, 7 Dec 2000 14:09:52 -0500

Greetings: My name is Charles Nothe. I would like to share my story about the support role my unit played in the Pueblo hijacking. I was stationed at Kimpo AB, Korea for thirteen months from May 1967, until June of 1968. I was an airman who worked in air cargo at the time in Det 5, 65th Military Airlift Wing. Once the Pueblo was taken by the North Koreans, our lives changed dramatically. As you are aware, a massive military buildup occurred. Our two flights on average per day increased to one C-141 landing every twenty minutes twenty-four hours a day. At the time, we had only five air cargo specialists assigned to Kimpo, yet for the first three weeks of the buildup, we received no additional help. All the air cargo airmen remained on duty twenty-four hours a day sleeping in the office and having box lunches delivered on the flight line until we received TDY help from air force bases around the world. The airmen unloading the aircraft volunteered to stay on duty and to sleep in the air cargo office for two reasons. 1. We were going to do whatever we could to help our fellow military men on the Pueblo, and 2. Our pride would not allow an aircraft to have an offload delay due to lack of personnel. No one at Kimpo expected anything in return except to complete the job professionally which we did. Upon my return to the States and an assignment at McGuire AFB, in New Jersey, I later learned that our unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for our efforts in support of the taking of the Pueblo. I was proud to play an important part in the buildup in support of our men on the Pueblo Charles Nothe

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:40:14 -0500

Good evening.. I was a journalist for Pacific Stars and Stripes in Korea, arriving there just after the seizure of the USS Pueblo. I was immediately assigned to cover talks between the United States and North Korea and continued that coverage until my departure from Korea in October 1968. I am looking for copies of my news coverage. It was a period of my journalistic life that I will always cherish. Can you help? Thank you. Ron Flechtner

Date: Sun, 10 Dec 2000 21:27:48 -0500

Good evening, In 1966/67, I was a young electronics engineer working for the Naval Ship Engineering Center (now SPAWAR) and assigned to support outfitting the USS PUEBLO and PALM BEACH with cryptologic and communications equipment. Our lead engineer was Mr. Joe Hull (he later held high level positions with NSA and OSD). Other NAVSEC engineers were Dan Preece and Paul Freund. We worked very close with COMNAVSECGRU (I don't remember their lead but my guess would be CDR John Pope or CDR Steve Jauregui). I visited Bremerton a number of times and had the opportunity to go to dinner once with CDR Bucher. My primary responsibility was installation and checkout of the HF Radio Direction Finder (If memory serves me, I believe that it was a Warner Lambert built and Sanders Associates modified AN/SDR-7 or derivative – later Sanders Associates converted the SRD –7s to AN/BRD-5s and BRD-6s for submarines). At one time, I had a number of pictures of the USS PUEBLO but I haven't been able to locate them. I am proud to have worked on the USS PUEBLO and for having met some of the heroic men who served on her. V/R Ray LeSage

To : USS PUEBLO Veteran's Association

Chae Hoon YI , Chief Producer Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) 31, Yoido-dong, Youngdungpo-gu, Seoul, 150-728, Korea Tel: 82-2-789-1553 E-mail : ych1013@chollian.net & trudysoo@orgio.net Dec 14, 2000 Warm greetings to you all from Seoul, Korea. My name is Chae Hoon YI, the chief producer of one of the most influencial and renowned media, Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) in Seoul, Korea. I am currently directing a 55-minute-documentary series called which has been broadcasted since last year and gained a good reputation. It is an interesting documentary program addressing historic issues which have been under the veil due to the degree of sensitivity and limited amount of information on the basis of testimonies of the people concerned with the issues. I am planning to broadcast a documentary on in May, 2001. This program intends to provide a creative perspective on the Incident by reapproaching the whole story with the testimonies of Captain Bucher and the surviving crew and evaluating their honorable activities. The most important part of all are the testimonies that you and Captain Bucher will offer. If you kindly allow us to interview veterans then I would like to visit your association with a production team during some time in February next year. Along with the interviews I would like to take pictures of the valuable documents, photographs and newspaper articles related to the Incident. I hope that you would testify your 11-month experience under detention in the North clearly and vividly. Also, I kindly request for the supporting materials which can prove that the Pueblo was not operating within North Korean territorial waters but within high seas on the point of seizure. 1. If the association have some people to recommend other than the six listed below I would also like to interview them. The production team will visit their homes to interview them. If the association can arrange a meeting place, perhaps at your office, it is more than welcome and MBC will cover the costs required (for interviews, travel expenses, accomodation). However, in that case it is necessaryfor the interviewees to bring their photographs and documents or any material related to the Incident from their place of residence. * Lloyd Bucher (Captain, live in L.A., artist) & Rose Bucher * Don McClarren (President, Board of Directors) * Stewart Russel (Chef of Pueblo, living in Eureka CA) * Lt Edward R. Murphy (Executive Officer, Navigator, living in La Mesa CA) * Lt Stephen Robert Harris (Research Operations, residential area unknown) 2. We would like to pay a visit to Duan Hodges family (living in Oregon Creswell) and hear their story, about the pains, sorrows and their thoughts toward North Korea. We would be grateful if you let us know their contact details so that we can discuss beforehand. 3.Also, if you have any suggestions on the topic please do not hesitate to tell me. I would appreciate them. 4. Among the US officials who were in the cease-fire committee and the people who negotiated with the North for the deportation of the crew, we will contact the 5 people listed below.If the association have some people to recommend other than the six people we would also like to interview them. * John V. Smith (Chairman of the cease-fire committee) * Daniel V. Gallery (published (1970), Rear Admiral at that time) * Arthur Goldberg (US Ambassador to Korea at that time) * James R. Lilley (US Ambassador to Korea) 5. As soon as I receive your affirmative reply I will hire a coordinator who will contact you and set up every meeting details with you and guide our production team in US. 6. Members of the production team: Director-Chae Hoon YI, Assistant Director, Camera Man, Audio Man and Coordinator (5 people) 7. Desired Interview Period: 3-4 days in February, 2001 8. Broadcasting Release and Region: May, 2001, South Korea and maybe US if exported I hope to hear from you soon. With best regards, Yi Chae Hoon Chief Producer , MBC, Seoul, Korea.

Date: Fri, 15 Dec 2000 16:10:49 EST

My name is Dan Sturman. I am a journalist and documentary filmmaker based in Los Angeles, and I've just spent some time reading through your informative and impressive website. I'm fascinated by the story of the USS Pueblo, and I'd like to explore the possibility of producing a documentary film which would tell that story. I'm curious if there have already been any documentaries made on the subject. And I'd like to know how I might get in touch with some of the members of your organization to see if there might interest in participating in a documentary.Please let me know what you think ...

Date: Mon, 18 Dec 2000 08:51:06 -0600

Hello I am Gary Tegel and I have been in and out of the Navy for the Past 20 years and never heard the full story of the Pueblo. I just finished reading Bucher: My Story. It was an eye opener. Then I decided to check for a web site that had more current info. Thanks to your site I found alot more. Just wanted to thank all of the men and crew of the Pueblo for what you all endured. I am truly greatful for the example of all of you. This will be passed on to my children as a famous story of curagious men and families that had to endure much. I wish I could salute Commander Bucher and tell him thank you. Maybe you could see that he gets a copy of this e-mail and just let him know I respect him as a Naval Officer and enjoyed his book tremedously. Also to his wife who was a true supporter from many miles away. She is also a true american hero. Thank you for your site and keep the Pueblo memory alive forever. V/R HT2(SW) Tegel

Date: Sat, 23 Dec 2000 17:57:41 -0800

Dear Sirs; As a career Army/Navy vet stationed in South Korea during the entire Pueblo incident I'm always researching this subject. In reading Robert Liston's book "The Pueblo Surrender" Mr. Liston mentions a "movie" made about the incident. Do you happen to know the name of the movie? I'd love to see it. Thanks! /Roger Torbett, San Diego, CA

Date: Fri, 22 Dec 2000 19:54:24

Sir, My name is Bill Lathim I was a CTO3 stationed in Bremerhaven, Germany during the capture of the Pueblo. I happened to be on duty the night a FLASH message came accross the Teletype. I will never forget how stunned I was to see this message that was being written as the ship was being boarded. I will tell you the message was busted, and ended in E E E E E, just so you will know I am for real. I along with I assume many other CT's relayed this transmission to DIRNSA. I have always wondered who the brave sole was that sent this message as bullets were flying. If you can find out who this sailor was I would very much like to hear from him at the e-mail address above. That message has always haunted me, especially since I received orders out of A school in 1967 to be assigned temporary duty aboard the Pueblo. Some how the next day my orders were changed to Germany. Only because of a Government screw up was I not on the Pueblo. I am now 52 years old living in the Boise, ID area.

Date: Sat, 23 Dec 2000 01:39:47 -0800 (PST)

Dear USS Pueblo webmaster, I am a recently retired Navy Korean linguist. A friend of mine told me about your site. I visited there and was impressed by the information and pictures displayed. I run an unofficial site for the benefit of active duty and retired Navy and Marine Corp Korean linguists. As intelligence professionals and Korean linguists, we are all keenly aware of the Pueblo incident and it's aftermath. As a matter of fact, the Pueblo incident is sort of the reason we, as Korean linguists, exist. I was wondering if it would be alright if I put a link to your site from mine? I already have a picture of the Pueblo and it's logo on the page. The page is located at: http://www.geocities.com/exkorling/index.html I believe that all Korean linguists should know and study the Pueblo incident and it's aftermath so that it NEVER happens again. Thank you for your time. I await your decision. Sincerely, ===== Tim Miller

Date: Tue, 26 Dec 2000 16:40:49 -0700

Howdy From Wyoming: I was reading the USS Liberty page and came upon your link. I maintain a page called G. I. Memories at http://www.gimemories.com and invite you to take a look at it. If you so desire I would be more than happy to provide a link to your page. Harry Meekins USAF Retired On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. The Boy Scout Oath.

Date: Tue, 26 Dec 2000 20:06:37 -0500

From: Christopher Czura

To whom it may concern: I would like to thank you for creating a website to tell the story of the USS Pueblo. I have recently inherited an autograph collection from my late grandmother, in which I found an autograph of a crew member of the Pueblo. Though the signature is illegible, the last name clearly begins with the letter "B" and the letters "CDR. USN" appear beneath the signature. I therefore believe that this is an autographed photo of the Commander of the USS Pueblo, Peter Bucher, dated "12 Sept 1970". I would be more than happy to scan this photograph and e-mail it to you, if you feel that it would be an important and interesting addition to your site. With best wishes for the holiday season and the new year, Chris ****************************************** Christopher J. Czura, M.S. President Wordsmith for the Life Sciences, Inc.

Date: Fri, 29 Dec 2000 13:45:21 -0800

I WAS ON THE DESTROYER HERBERT J. THOMAS DD-833 -- WE WERE ENROUTE TO YOKO WHEN WE WERE ORDERED FLANK SPEED TO
KOREA---
WE WERE THERE WITH A CARRIER, I DON'T REMEMBER FOR SURE WHICH ONE , I BELIEVE IT WAS THE ENTERPRISE---- THERE WAS PRACTICE FOR ATTEMPTING A RESCUE OR RECOVERY OF THE PUEBLO---I WAS A MACHINIST MATE IN FORWARD ENGINE ROOM---WE WERE OFF THE COAST FOR 3 MONTHS BEFORE LEAVING. IT SEEMS LIKE THIS WAS HANDLED LIKE THE REST OF THE WAR WAS BEING HANDLED