Dick Johnson sent email about his duty at Operation Dominic.
From: "Dick Johnson" stupidknupid@hotmail.com
To: pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Historical information
Date: Tue, 14 Aug 2001
Dear webmaster,
The NAAV said to contact you concerning historical information about my duty. I was attached to AEWBARRONPAC from July 1960 to July 1963. I know our squadron took part in Operation Dominic 1 in 1962. I know many of our planes (WV-2) were used, but not how many were used. Also our airplanes and crews were on temporary duty assignment. Any information you can provide will assist me in filing my claim. I now have terminal colon cancer, one daughter born in 1964 contracted cancer at the age of six and died in 1989. One son and his daughter have the same minor birth defect (two webbed toes). Another daughter has thyroid problems.
Thank you, Dick Johnson
From: "Dick Johnson" stupidknupid@hotmail.com
To: pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Dominic 1
Date: Fri, 17 Aug 2001
Keith,
I hope you remember my E-mail. You asked me two questions.
1. Did you see any of the Dominic explosions? Only one and it was from Barbers Point HI.
2. What was your duty and the aircraft's mission? I was in charge of the ARC-27 (radio/ transmitter bench in Barber's Point. I have found that "many" of our aircraft were used in Dominic. They were WV-2's (EC-121K's) attached to our squadron AEWBARRONPAC. They apparently were used to patrol area to keep area clear of ships and airplanes. I have found five references about this on different parts of the web.
Other than that I have only questions concerning this airplane. Each WV-2 had five Arc-27's on board and I know I personally worked on every Arc-27 in squadron 2 or 3 times in 1962. We performed the 200 and 400 hour checks in Barber's Point. Two airplanes a week. All five Arc-27's came off plane for me to peak out and check for proper operation. Plus any that came in for repair. Also some navigation equipment for repair. In 1962 I personally worked on over 500 units. My questions are.
- 1. How many planes were involved in test series?
- 2. Were units radio-active?
- 3. Why were we not told of our involement in Dominic test series?
- 4. Was electronics equipment de-radiated?
- 5. Am I an atomic veteran?
- 6.What do I tell my children about their health problems and birth defects?
As you see I have only questions. My colon cancer has spread and is terminal. I would at least like to have the knowledge that my early death will be because of duty for the defense of our country. It would give my death some meaning.
Dick Johnson
stupidknupid@hotmail.com
Keith Whittle
August 22, 2001
[ Operation Dominic ]