History of US Air Force in Taiwan - 1966

1966

January.          Kung Kuan Air Base had 550 personnel assigned this month.  By 30 June 1966, this number had grown to 2,500.  This figure included all attached and assigned personnel.

January.          The 523^rd Tactical Fighter Squadron deployed to Tainan Air Base.

January – February.    Six double wall inflatable shelters were erected at Kung Kuan AB to satisfy interim aircraft maintenance requirements.

January – June.         Accident exposure risk is high during periods of normal base construction.  Construction at Kung Kuan was done under unusual circumstances, therefore the risk was higher.  The 6217^th Combat Support Group did not have any accidents during this period even though Civil Engineers used unskilled USAF military and local Chinese help.

January – June.         The Military Personnel Section at Kung Kuan AB processed 1,504 personnel records on personnel reporting to Kung Kuan.

January – June.         The 6214^th Support Group supported two organizations (flying) during this period.  The USAF 523^rd Tactical Fighter Squadron flying F-100D aircraft and the US Marine Corps flying F-4B aircraft.

1 January.      The Accounting and Finance Office at Taipei Air Station was activated.  Disbursing account number DSSN 5270 was assigned.

3 January.      The primary Advance Echelon (ADVON) of the 314^th Troop Carrier Wing was joined by the second ADVON at Kung Kuan AB. 

           

13 January.    First Official release:  C-130 aircraft of the 314^th Troop Carrier Wing would be stationed at Kung Kuan AB.

14 January.    The base newspaper, Kung Kuan Krier, Kung Kuan Air Base, began operation with a six page edition processed by multilith. It went to 11 pages on 11 February 1966.  It changed its name to Chung Chuan Krier on 25 March 1966 with the name change of the base. On 22 April 1966 it went commercial with a contract awarded to Chung Tai Press in Taichung at a cost of $150.00 per issue.

19 January.    Colonel Richard J. Hartman assumed command of the 6217^th Combat Support Group vice Lieutenant Colonel David H. Doughty, per 6217^th Combat Support Group SO G-1, 19 Jan 66.

22 January.    Colonel Arthur C. Rush, Commander, 314^th Troop Carrier Wing and his staff arrived at Kung Kuan AB to complete the wing’s command structure.

22 January.    First PCS personnel arrived at Kung Kuan AB to fill authorized Unit Manning Document  (UMD) slots for the 6217^th Combat Support Group.

22 January.    Headquarters, 314^th Tactical Fighter Wing was activated at Kung Kuan Air Base, replacing the Wing ADVON.

22 January.    The 314^th Field Maintenance Squadron was activated at Kung Kuan Air Base with personnel coming from Sewart AFB, Tennessee, Dyess AFB, Texas and Pope AFB, North Carolina.

28 January.    314^th Troop Carrier Wing became operational at Kung Kuan Air Base when C-130E aircraft arrived.

29 January.    The 50^th Troop Carrier Squadron with C-130E aircraft arrived at Kung Kuan Air Base from the Philippines and began fulfilling its mission by flying military support in all area of SEA.  

8 February.    Headquarters, 327^th Air Division having been activated by the Department of the Air Force was organized at Taipei Air Station, Taiwan and assigned to Thirteenth Air Force per PACAF SO G-28, 7 February 1966. This same general order also discontinued Detachment 1, Thirteenth Air Force, Taipei Air Station and assigned the 6214th Support Group, 6213th Support Squadron and 6217th Combat Support Group to the 327th Air Division.  It was an administrative change, designed to improve internal organizational management and promote greater efficiency. 

8 February.    The 6217^th Services Squadron was designated and organized by PACAF SO G-28, 7 Feb 1966 at Kung Kuan Air Base and assigned to 6217^th Combat Support Group.

15 February.  Air Post Office (APO) 96280 was designated for Taipei Air Station for mailing purposes only.

15 February.  The 6213^th Support Squadron Consolidated Base Personnel Office became operational at Taipei AS with approximately 1,300 records.  By the end of June 1966, records had reached approximately 3,600.  This Central Base Personnel Office (CBPO) serviced all 327^th Air Division bases, Taipei Air Station, Kung Kuan AB, Tainan AB and Chiayi AB.  A major responsibility for the CBPO was the in and out processing section at Sung Shan Airport, Taipei which was the only aerial port of embarkation/debarkation for the entire island of Taiwan.

18 February.  The Base Publication Distribution Office (BPDO) at Kung Kuan Air Base was changed to a Class A PDO.

19 February – 1 May.  One crew and aircraft of the 314^th Troop Carrier Wing were maintained on HIGH GEAR alert status for this period.

25 February.  A Security and Law Enforcement group from Thirteenth Air Force visited Taipei Armed Service Police to determine effectiveness of that organization to perform criminal investigations.

28 February.  Colonel Frank Borman, USAF along with Captain Walter Schirra, USN, arrived in Taipei.  While here they visited USTDC, MAAG Taiwan, ROC and President Chiang. (Editor:  Borman and Schirra are NASA Astronauts)

1 March.         The Suzie Drop Zone (DZ) was agreed to by CAF and USAF to be used for 314^th Troop Carrier Wing training.

1 March.         Memorandum of Agreement between CAF and USAF on USAF Heavy Equipment Paradrop Training on Taiwan was signed.

7 March.         The 345^th Troop Carrier Squadron started arriving at Kung Kuan Air Base for permanent duty.

7 March.         The 314^th Troop Carrier Wing Combat Air Lift Support Unit (CALSU) was established at Nha Trang, Vietnam.

8 March.         The 314^th Troop Carrier Wing Combat Air Life Support Unit arrived at Cam Ranh Bay. Vietnam.

17 March.       327^th Air Division Air Operations Center (AOC) participated in splashdown of GEMINI 8.  AOC had control of two C-130 aircraft from Kung Kuan Air Base.  Two crews from 314^th Troop Carrier Wing at Kung Kuan Air Base aided in the search for the Gemini 8 Astronauts 500 miles east of Okinawa on 21 March 1966.

20 March.       Welcome Inn, a Home for American Servicemen,  supported by the gifts of people in the Taichung area, was dedicated.  This gave personnel from Kung Kuan Air Base a place to stop when visiting the city of Taichung, Taiwan.

20 March.       The 345^th Troop Carrier Squadron arrived at Kung Kuan Air Base.

20 March.       The Nationalist Chinese Government announced the name of Kung Kuan Air Base was changed to Ching Chuan Kang Air Base, located northwest of the city of Taichung, Taiwan.

25 March.       The USG entered into agreement with Mr. CHAN Ping-cha for lease of a two story, multi-purpose office located at 163 Shih Fu Road, Taichung, to be used as a Procurement Office, Taichung area.

1 April.            776^th Troop Carrier Squadron arrived at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base for permanent duty.

8 April.            The Joint Mutual Fire Fighting agreement became a reality on Taiwan as Tainan Air Base Firemen helped battle a blaze in the downtown area of the city of Tainan.

12 April.          The United States and the Republic of China established the Status of Forces Agreement which altered the legal position of US military personnel on Taiwan with respect to criminal jurisdiction.  The more salient features were, the US has primary jurisdiction over military personnel subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) for offenses solely against the property or security of the US; solely against the person or property of a member of the US armed forces or civilian component, or dependent; and arising out of official duty.  In all other cases, the Republic of China has the primary right to exercise jurisdiction over all offenses committed by members of the civilian component; contractors and contractors’ employees; and dependents. (Editor: Here’s an interesting read on the US-Taiwan SOFA agreement)

17 April.          General William H. Blanchard, Vice Chief of Staff, USAF, visited Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.  He formally opened the new 1,000 man dining hall.

21 April.          Vice Admiral William E. Gentner Jr., Commander, US Forces, Taiwan, Commander, US Taiwan Defense Command (USTDC), inspected Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.

21 April.          Liquid oxygen production commenced operations at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.

25 – 29 April.   Thirteenth Air Force performed its annual inspection of all units at Ching Chung Kang Air Base.

26 April.          Detachment 1, Tainan Area Procurement Office, Ching Chuan Kang Air Base was discontinued.  The Ching Chuan Kang Air Base Procurement Office was activated and assigned Code number EC-54.  It had operated at Detachment 1, from 1 January 1966.

27 April.          The Taiwan Garrison Command conducted an island-wide air-raid exercise.

27 April.          First drop was made by 314^th Troop Carrier Wing on Suzie Drop Zone, Taiwan.

May.                The Ching Chuan Kang Air Base munitions storage area was completed and accepted for use during May.  During the first 10 days of June 1966, many of the revetments, roadways and drainage ditches sustained major damage from heavy rainfall. 

May.                327^th Air Division participated in Joint US/ROC Exercise LI MING.

May.                The responsibility for Air Coordinating Officer, Taichung Area, was transferred from the Navy to the 6217^th Combat Support Group.

9 May. Major Joseph E. Felber assumed command of 6213^th Support Squadron, Taipei Air Station, per 6213^th Support Squadron SO G-1, 9 May 1966.

13 May – 29 June.    The Navy VMF 323 (Marine Corps Fighter Squadron) from Iwakuni, Japan was deployed to Tainan Air Base.

13 May – 25 July.      The 523^rd Tactical Fighter Squadron from Clark Air Base was deployed to Tainan Air Base.

16 May.          The 314^th Troop Carrier Wing Combat Air Lift Support Unit (CALSU) at Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam was inactivated.

18 May.          The 6214^th Support Group, Tainan Air Base, won the Thirteenth Air Force Dining Hall Award plaque for Best Dining Hall, quarter ending 31 March 1966.

22 May – 21 July.      Marine Fighter/Attack Squadrons, VMF 323 and VMF 314 were TDY at Tainan Air Base.  They were supported logistically by the 6214^th Combat Support Group in support of the 327^th Air Division supplement 2, to Annex A, Thirteenth Air Force OPORD 314-66.

29 May – 3 June.       Typhoon JUDY caused the 314^th Troop Carrier Wing to evacuate its aircraft from CCK Air Base.

1 June.            The keypunch function for 314^th Troop Carrier Wing Maintenance Section commenced operations at CCK Air Base.

1 June.            A new “Mutual Agreement” was made between the “City of Tainan, Taiwan” and the 6214^th Support Group for the purpose of assisting each other in the event of a fire.  Also, the Information Office, Tainan Air Base conducted a base tour (first of its kind) of its Base for the Chinese city officials.

3 June.            Typhoon JUDY hit Tainan Air Base.  No fatalities were reported.

11 June.         Colonel Ralph E. Kirchoff assumed command of the 5217^th Combat Support Group vice Colonel Richard J. Hartman per 6217^th Combat Support Group SO G-3, 11 June 1966.

11 June.         The Republic of China Legislative Yuan approved the agreement on Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) in Taiwan.

15 June.         Lieutenant Colonel Clayton H. Heinlen assumed command of the 6213^th Support Squadron, Taipei Air Station per 6213^th Support Squadron SO G-6, 15 June 1966.

15 June.         A motor vehicle inspection program was started at Taipei Air Station making this the first time a motor vehicle decal was required.

20 June.         A Military Agreement was signed between the ROC and USG on mutual support for CAF/USAF Disaster Control.

28 June.         Detachment 1, Shimen CY, Taiwan;  Detachment 2, Makung Island RSI, Taiwan; and Detachment 3, E Laun Pi CY, Taiwan were discontinued by PACAF SO G-189, 16 June 1966.

July.                 There were 5,620 Air Force Personnel assigned to units on Taiwan.

July.                 The Tip Tank Pylon Maintenance and Transient Alert function were deleted from the 6217^th Combat Support Group and transferred to the 314^th Field Maintenance Squadron at CCKAB.

July.                 The Base Theater opened this month at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base utilizing a converted barracks.

1 July.             The Consolidated Personnel Office located at Taipei Air Station as a section of the 6213^th Support Squadron was relocated to Ching Chuan Kang Air Base at the direction of PACAF Headquarters.  Twenty-five personnel were transferred with this move.

1 July.             Supply Account Number FB5240, Tainan Air Base (6214^th Support Group) assumed the support of MAAG-AF, Taiwan.

15 July.           Responsibility for the base fuels aviation stock fund was transferred from Tainan Air Base to Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.

21 July.           Colonel John O. Sandbach assumed command of 317^th Air Division, Taipei Air Station, per 327^th Air Division SO G-21, 21 July 1966.

24 July.           American Express opened a Branch Bank at Ching Chuan Kang, Air Base to provide the base full banking services
 

25 July.   Brigadier General William F. Pitts, US Air Force, assumed command of the 327th Air Division, Taipei Air Station, Taiwan.

327th Air Division Special Order G-22, 25 July 1966,

 17 July – 25 October.  Twenty-seven dormitories were released by the Corps of Engineers at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.  Personnel of the 6217^th Combat Support Group, 314^th Organizational Maintenance Squadron, 314^th Field Maintenance Squadron and 314^th Troop Carrier Wing were housed in these billets.  In addition, seven buildings were received from the Corps of Engineers and designated as Bachelor Officer Quarters with space for 448 officers.

August.           The Base Driver School at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base became fully operational and provided training for 12 to 20 classes a week.

1 August.        The Air Police Branch at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base was assigned to the 6217^th Service Squadron with and an authorized strength of 86 personnel. Also assigned to this squadron was the Personnel Service Office.

1 August.        The Consolidated Personnel Office was organized at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base in accordance with Air Force Manual 30-3 and became operational this date.

15 August.      A Service Contract was awarded by Ching Chuan Kang Air Base to Far East Transport for crating buildup, repair and painting of auxiliary fuel tanks.          

15 August.      The 314^th Aviation and Electronics Maintenance Squadron was activated at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base per PACAF SO G-79, 23 Mar 66.

26 August.      Base Supply at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base completed its conversion to PCE and the Burroughs 263 computer.

September.    Tainan Air Base hosted a school for Electrical Multiple Unit (EMU) EMU/17 (100 KW) generator training taught by Sheppard AFB, Texas instructors.

September.    Supply Account Number FB5240 implemented the Stock Number User Directory (SNUD) system at Tainan Air Base, 6214^th Support Group.

September.    One Chinese National employee of 6213^th Support Squadron, Taipei Air Station, completed a six week Procurement Supervisor Course at Lowry AFB, Colorado, against a civilian space allotted by Air Training Command (ATC).  This was the first time that a Chinese National had been sent to the states to attend an ATC course.

1 September.            A Military Agreement was signed between ROC and USG on facilities use of the West Wing of CAC Headquarters Building, Taipei.

1 September.            Detachment 1, Headquarters 314^th Troop Carrier Wing designated and organized at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base per PACAF SO G-225, 22 July 1966.

9 September.            The 314^th Troop Carrier Wing initiated a Weekend Rest and Recuperation (R&R) flight from Ching Chuan Kang Air Base to Taipei.  Flights departed Friday afternoons and returned to CCKAB on Sunday.         

23 September.          The Honorable Harold K. Brown, Secretary of the Air Force and other personnel from USAF, visited Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.  He was accompanied on his trip from Taipei to Ching Chuan Kang by Brigadier General William F. Pitts, 327^th Air Division Commander.  Secretary Brown was met at CCKAB by Lieutenant General James N. Wilson, Thirteenth Air Force Commander.

26 September.          The 327^th Air Division informed the 6217^th Combat Support Group that they had full responsibility for performing Base Operations Support in accordance with Air Force Regulation 55-48.  Base Operations at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base was not considered a liaison function.

28 September.          First Base Records Management Course was conducted at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.

31 October.    The NCR 390 Computer became operational in military payrolls at Ching Chang Kang Air Base.

November.     Construction of the Airman Dormitory, Officer Quarters and Dining Hall were completed this month at Taipei Air Station at a cost of US $235,722.38.  The contract had been awarded in September 1965.

November.     The Motor Pool Complex at Taipei Air Station, which included parking area, auto maintenance shop, auto maintenance administration building, vehicle refueling station, open storage for vehicles, new fence and street lighting was completed at Taipei Air Station at a cost of US $113,000.

21 – 25 November.   327^th Air Division participated in Exercise MND/TDC AIR ROCHESTER.

22 November.            327^th Air Division participated in Exercise LARK.

26 November.            An agreement regarding vehicle drivers and mechanics provided by the Republic of China under the Status of Forces Agreement was signed by Tang Wu for the Republic of China and Brigadier General Tarleton H. Watkins, USAF, for the United States.

1 December.   The 6214^th Air Police Section received a Letter of Appreciation from Lieutenant General James W. Wilson, Thirteenth Air Force Commander, for the excellent manner in which they conducted their portion of Weapons Capability Inspection during September 1966.

5 December.   The Navy Exchange opened a new and large building at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.  

20 December.  The Chinese Air Force 3^rd Tactical Fighter Wing gave Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) concurrence in supporting a 24 hour, Ground Controlled Approach (GCA) requirement, at Ching Chung Kang Air Base with duty-controllers being provided by US Air Force.

31 December.  Approximately 90 percent of the buildings at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base were completed and occupied.  On the average, one building was completed every four days during 1966. 

31 December.  Transient Alert Section was transferred from 314^th Fighter Maintenance Squadron to 6217^th Combat Support Group at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base.

Things really changed in the Taichung area this year.   What days there were on Taiwan.

Please leave your comments below. 

History of US Air Force in Taiwan - 1965 - UPDATED

1965

January.          The Staff Judge Advocate conducted an Income Tax Instructor Training School for all US Forces on Taiwan for a period of five days.

1 January.      The 6213^th Support Squadron assumed responsibility for distribution of publications to Shu Linkou Air Station.

1 January.      OPNAVINST 5400.24 placed HEDSUPPACT, Taipei under command of Commander Service Force, US Pacific Fleet and Commander US Naval Forces, Philippines for area coordination.

20 January.    The Clothing Sales Store at Taipei Air Station was closed and the Naval Headquarters Support Activity Taipei (HSAT) assumed the function.  The 6213^th Support Squadron assigned HSA two airmen to help the activity.

22 March.       The CAF-USAF Bulk Aviation Fuel Loss Agreement was signed effective 1 April 1965 and was retroactive to 1 October 1964.

31 March.       As of the end of March, 20 telephones were in place at Kung Kuan Air Base.  By 30 June the number of instruments had increased to 83, with 15 extensions.

7 April.            A Joint/Use/Tenant agreement between CAF, Chiayi and 6214^th Support Squadron was signed.

           

7 April.            Aircraft of BIG EYE TaskForce arrived at Tainan AS from 552^nd Airborne Early Warning & Control Wing, McClellan AFB, California and commenced operations.

9 April.            A new weather unit (Detachment 23, 1^st Weather Wing) made up of TDY personnel was formed at Kung Kuan AB.  First PCS personnel arrived on 22 April 1965.

10 April.          The 476^th Tactical Fighter Squadron (F-104) from George AFB, California, was deployed to Kung Kuan Air Base (three days prior to activation of 6214^th) which strained logistics support of the 6214^th Support Squadron.  Base fuels activity was established and became operational with the arrival of the 476^th Tactical Fighter Squadron.

11 April.          The first airmen assigned to TOP DOG Project X arrived at Kung Kuan AB and were attached to 6214^th Support Squadron for 120 days TDY.

12 April.          One officer and 35 Air Policemen arrived at Kung Kuan AB from George AFB, California, to begin the Security and Law Enforcement Section of the 6214^th Support Squadron.

13 April.          The Procurement Office commenced operation with one officer and one NCO at Kung Kuan Air Base.

14 April.          The 6214^th Support Group was designated and organized at Tainan Air Station by PACAF SO G-30, 9 Apr 65.  The same order also discontinued Detachment 1, 6214^th Support Squadron at Kung Kuan Air Base.  The 6214^th Support Squadron was moved from Tainan Air Base to Kung Kuan Air Base less equipment and personnel by PACAF Movement Order 3, 9 April 1965.

14 April.          Air Police of 6214^th Support Squadron arrived at Kung Kuan Air Base with Thirteen personnel.  Security of base was provided by Chinese Air Force.

14 April.          Kung Kuan Air Base had little or no notice of personnel arriving and both officers and airmen were required to string and peg-down squadron tents for living quarters and work areas.  Necessary equipment and supplies to operate even a rudimentary orderly room were not available.

14 April.          The 6214^th Support Squadron was organized at Kung Kuan, Chinese Air Force Base, Taiwan.  TOP DOG X and XV TDY personnel arrived 13 April from many USAF installations.  The TOP DOG force combined with a five man PCS USAF WRM maintenance detachment which was in place at Kung Kuan Air Base and the 208 “strangers” were quickly welded into a homogeneous unit.

20 April – 14 May.  The Construction Battalion (Seabees) of the US Navy, in cooperation with the 6214^th Civil Engineers began a rapid construction program to up-date USAF facilities on Kung Kuan Air Base.  (Mess Hall with adjacent buildings, -- floors and screened wooden frames for tents.)  Construction finished on 14 May and Seabees departed.

1 May.           Colonel Roscoe B. Blackledge assumed command of the 6214^th Support Squadron at Kung Kuan Air Base. 

1 May.           A Chinese Air Force – US Air Force (CAF-USAF) Bulk Aviation Fuel Loss Agreement was placed into effect at Tainan Air Base.

5 May.           The first Kung Kuan Air Base Information Office was set up in a 6’ by 8’ corner of the Civil Engineer’s tent.  A home built table and a folding chair were scrounged.

10 May.          Two H-43Bs of Detachment 6, Pacific Air Rescue Service (MATS) arrived at Kung Kuan AB from Portland, Oregon and remained on alert duty until 10 July when they were transferred to SEA.

15 May.          Base Supply Account (FB5266) was established for the 6214^th Support Squadron which allowed them to go directly to the depot.

26 May.          A new, air conditioned, Navy Exchange was opened at Kung Kuan Air Base in a newly constructed “Taiwan Hut.”

June.               First USAF Civil Engineering support activity was formed at Kung Kuan AB with 24 military of various skills, 18 local national draftsmen and 27 fire fighting personnel.

 

Photo courtesy USTDC Facebook Page.  Kung Kuan AB, Taiwan 1965.

14 June.         First time US Flag flew alongside Taiwan Flag was on Flag Day 1965.  Notice the tent city that most Kung Kuan personnel resided in.  These came down later in the year as permanent buildings came on-line to house base personnel

18 June.         Lieutenant Colonel Edwin H. Brewer assumed command of 6214^th Support Squadron vice Lieutenant Colonel Robert M. Robinson per 6214^th Support Squadron SO G-2, 15 Jun 65.

30 June.         The Base Chapel, one of the first buildings begun on 10 June 1965 at Kung Kuan Air Base was completed.

30 June.         Vehicles at Kung Kuan AB had increased to 103.  By 31 December 1966, the number had increased to 467.

30 June 1965 – 30 June 1966.       Most of Kung Kuan personnel were billeted on base, but personnel of the 314^th TCW remained living on the local economy due to shortage of available base quarters.  Base quarters consisted of six H-shaped, two story concrete structures, each normally housing 120 men; two single story H-shaped concrete BOQ buildings with a 56 man capacity; six Taiwan aluminum BOQ and 11 Taiwan aluminum airmen dormitories.  Other structures completed were a missile check out facility (AIM 9); one concrete dining hall; one Taiwan aluminum dining hall; eight interim aircraft maintenance buildings; a supply warehouse; and NCO and officers lounge; a 10 bed dispensary; an organizational maintenance facility; A&E facility and a squadron operations building.  Eight man tents were still utilized mainly for storage.

July.     There were 3,887 US Air Force personnel assigned to units on Taiwan.

July – December.      The Tainan Air Procurement Office won the Thirteenth Air Force Award for the Base Procurement Office during this period.

3 July.             A total of 309 permanent party personnel arrived at Kung Kuan Air Base to replace TOP DOG personnel who were assigned TDY in Taiwan for 120 days.

6 July.             One officer and 16 Air Policemen were transferred from Kung Kuan AB to Da Nang, Vietnam.

10 July.           Local Base Rescue Unit at Kung Kuan AB was moved to Udorn, Thailand.  Unit consisted of two HH-43B helicopters.

8 July. The 6215^th Support Squadron was organized and designated at Chiayi Air Base by PACAF SO G-50, 12 May 1965.  The same general order also organized Detachment 1, 6211^th USAF Dispensary, Kung Kuan AB and Detachment 2, 6211^th USAF Dispensary at Chiayi AB.

19 July.           Personnel for the newly activated 6215^th Support Squadron began arriving and were held in a Chiayi Hostel until space could be found for them.  The squadron personnel moved on-base at Chiayi on 27 August 1965.

21 July.           Brigadier General Thomas N. Wilson, Command Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) visited Chiayi Air Base and briefed all personnel on plans for the 6215^th Support Squadron.

26 July.           Lieutenant Lerro assumed command of the 6215^th Support Squadron at Chiayi Air Base.

August.           Typhoon Mary damaged the tent area at Kung Kuan Air Base causing the base to move personnel into civilian hotels at Taichung for a period of 46 days.

2 August.        Colonel Joseph W. Parks assumed command of the 6214^th Support Group at Tainan Air Base.

2 August.        The 6211^th USAF Dispensary was relieved by PACAF SO G-104, 29 July 1965 from the 6214^th Support Squadron and assigned to the 6214^th Support Group.

5 August.        Lieutenant Colonel Norbert L. Novinski assumed command of the 6214^th Support Squadron at Kung Kuan Ai Base from TOP DOG Command, Lieutenant Colonel James M. McFarland, per 6214^th Spt Sq SO G-1, 5 Aug 65.

25 August.      Detachment 1, 6211^th SUAF Dispensary at Kung Kuan Air Base was discontinued by PACAF GO G-83, 25 June 1965. This same General Order established a Class “B” USAF Dispensary at Kung Kuan Air Base and assigned it to the 6214^th Support Squadron.

September.    All TOP DOG personnel departed Kung Kuan AB and were replaced by permanent party personnel.

September.    The 50^th Troop Carrier Squadron was alerted for Far East duty.  On 27 and 28 December 1965, the squadron departed the CONUS PCS and set-up TDY at Clark AB on 1 and 2 Jan 1966.  Personnel came from the 50^th, 61^st and 62^nd Troop Carrier Squadrons at Sewart AFB, Tennessee.  The squadron arrived at Kung Kuan AB on 28 January 1966.

September.    The 345^th Troop Carrier Squadron was alerted for Far East duty.  Personnel came from Dyess AFB, Texas.  Squadron was TDY at Naha, Okinawa prior to its arrival at Kung Kuan AB on 20 March 1966.

September.    The 776^th Troop Carrier Squadron was alerted for Far East duty.  Personnel came from the 464^th TCW at Pope AFB, North Carolina.  The squadron departed CONUS in November 1965 and was TDY at Tachikawa, Japan until its arrival at Kung Kuan Air Base on 1 April 1966.

13 September.          Detachment 12, 11^th Postal Squadron assumed control of the Consolidated Mail Room at Taipei Air Station.

15 September.          Lieutenant Colonel David H. Doughty assumed command of the 6215^th Support Squadron.

October.         Tainan Air Station redesignated Tainan Air Base by Chinese Air Force.

6 October.      Lieutenant Stephen E. Berry assumed command of 6215^th Support Squadron.

11 November.         Three Chinese Communist airmen defected to Taiwan in a Russian-made IL-28 aircraft.

11 November.            A fire in the communications building at Kung Kuan Air Base disrupted communications for approximately 18 hours.

15 November.            Lieutenant Colonel David H. Doughty assumed command of 6214^th Support Squadron per Personnel Action 1604, 6200 Material Wing, 28 Dec 65.

23 November.            The 6217^th Combat Support Group, 6217^th Supply Squadron, 6217^th Civil Engineering Squadron, 6217^th Transportation Squadron and 6217^th USAF Dispensary were designated and organized at Kung Kuan Air Base, per PACAF SO G-205, 18 Nov 65.  The 6217^th Combat Support Group was assigned to Thirteenth Air Force.  Other units were assigned to the 6217^th Combat Support Group.  The 6214^th Support Squadron was discontinued at Kung Kuan Air Base by PACAF SO G-208, 22 Nov 65.

9 December.             The US turned over F-5a Freedom Fighter jet aircraft to CAF.

13 December.           Major General James N. Wilson, Commander, Thirteenth Air Force made a facilities inspection at Kung Kuan Air Base.

17 December.           An advance party of 314^th Troop Carrier Wing consisting of five officers and five airmen landed at Kung Kuan AB to establish a Base Operations and prepare for the forthcoming move of the wing.  It was commanded by Colonel Gordon C. Preller.

21 December.           The 435^th Tactical Fighter Squadron of the 479^th Tactical Fighter Wing (F-104s) returned to George AFB, California upon completion of their rotational tour.  The 436^th Tactical Fighter Squadron of this same wing had returned in October 1965.

History of US Air Force in Taiwan - 1964

1964

January – December.  US Army Communications Agency, Taiwan became the US Army Strategic Communications Command (USASTRATCOM-Taiwan)  As its predecessor, it continued to provide on and off island communications.

January – December.  SSgt James B. Williams, 6211^th USAF Dispensary, Tainan AB, was Thirteenth Air Force Airman of the Year for 1964.

January – June.  The STAR procedures were placed into effect at Tainan Air Base in support of Project 425 BIG EYE for housekeeping and administrative support for Kung Kuan Air Base.

January – June.  The Protestant Choir, Taipei Air Station, was named winner of first place in the PACAF COMPETITION of the 1964 USAF CHAPEL Choir Contest for bases of less than 3,500 personnel.

20 January.    BAK-9 Runway Barrier installation at Tainan Air Base was started this date and completed 5 April.  The one for Kung Kuan Air Base was started on 2 March and completed on 6 May.

20 January.    Contract was let to Feng Yung Construction Company to build the Airmen’s Dormitory at Taipei Air Station.

17 – 27 March.  Aircraft from the 15^th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Okinawa participated in Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) OPLAN BIG TRUCK at Kung Kuan Air Base.

May.                The Severance Pay Plan for local national employees on Taiwan employed by the US Air Force was approved by CINCPAC.  They had to complete one year of satisfactory work before being entitled to this pay plan.

1 June.            All functions of Plans and Requirements reporting directly to ATF Thirteen (P) were reassigned to Combat Plans Section, US Taiwan AOC, and Director of Operations.

3 June.            Agreement between USG and ROC amended 3 April 1956 agreement on the disposition of Grant Aid Equipment and Materials to ROC.  (MAAG) (TIA55607)

30 June.         Tainan Air Station Supply Office was selected as Best in PACAF for 1963.

1 July.             The Staff Judge Advocate Office of 6213^th Support Squadron consolidated with Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) office thereby increasing the effectiveness of its mission.

6 July.             Major Alfred P. Lista assumed command of 6213^th Support Squadron per 6213^th Support Squadron SO G-2, 6 July 1964.

8 July.             Det 2, Thirteenth Air Force was discontinued at Taipei Air Station per PACAF SO G-67, 8 May 64.

1 August.        Brigadier General Thomas N.Wilson assumed command of Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) per USAF SO AA-761, 6 May 64 and Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) SO G-2, 1 Aug 64 vice Colonel Paul E. Webber, relieved. 

1 September.  A reorganization separated the Branch Procurement Office at Tainan Air Station from the principal office at Taipei and made it an independent function with responsibility for Taichung and all areas south of it.

20 September – 5 November.   Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) participated in SKY SOLDIER/TIEN BING IV. Exercise in the vicinity of Tainan Air Station, which utilized tactical air support in conjunction with the air defense capabilities of the ROC.  Brigadier General Thomas N. Wilson, Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) Commander was tactical air commander for this exercise.  The opening day featured PACAF in miniature with C-124, C-130, RF-101, F-105 and B-57 aircraft participating.  The Sino-US joint Army-Air Force airborne defensive exercise ended on 5 Nov 1964.  This was the largest peacetime Sino-American exercise ever conducted.

19 December.           A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the ROC and US on Sino-American Military Exercises 1965.

History of US Air Force in Taiwan - 1963

1963

January.          The MARS station at Taipei Air Station became operational on 14832 KCS.

7 – 9 January.  Aircraft from Kadena AB Okinawa were used in checking Taiwan Air Defense.  BLUE EAGLE exercise.

7 February.    A Taipei Air Station Teen Club was established and a full time director hired.

14 February.  US Taiwan AOC participated in BLUE SKY exercise.

15 February.  The official b-weekly six page photo offset newspaper for Tainan Air Station, the TAINAN TIMES, began publication using appropriated funds.  A1C Donald P. Cormiae was first editor.      

20-27 February.  The 510^th Tactical Fighter Squadron was supported by Detachment 1, 6214^th Air Base Group, Kung Kuan AB, during its deployment to Taiwan.

21 February.  405^th Fighter Wing aircraft deployed to Kung Kuan AB for participation in SKY SOLDIER III.

23 – 26 February.  Exercise SKY SOLDIER/TIEN BING III. Conducted on Taiwan.

6 March – 30 April.  The VMF 114, VMF 542 and VMF 235 of the 1^st Marine Air Group-II from Japan deployed to Ping Tung, and participated in BLUE EAGLE exercise.  While on Taiwan these units were under the control of US Taiwan JOC.

11 March.       The 6214^th Air Base Group presented the Tainan Fire Department with 7,000 gallons of fire fighting foam in an official ceremony.  The foam valued at approximately $8,000 no longer met certain Air Force specifications for aircraft fires, but was usable for other types.

13 March.       The 67^th Tactical Fighter Squadron was supported by Detachment 1, 6214^th Air Base Group at Kung Kuan AB for its deployment to Taiwan.

13 March – 13 April.  A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between ROC and US on the construction of a Military Integrated Communications System.

15 March.       US Taiwan JOC and Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) battle staff participated in Thirteenth Air Force Exercise NEWBOY II.

1 April.            US Taiwan JOC issued letter on clearance procedures into Taiwan.

18 April.          US Taiwan JOC participated in BLUE SKY exercise.

1 – 15 May.    The Commander’s Radio Net for the 6214^th Support Squadron was installed (leased contract) with one base station, eight fixed stations and one mobile station.

5 May. Lt General T.S, Moorman, PACAF Vice Commander, Brig. General G.E. Pinkston, Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) Commander and others visited Taipei Air Station.

15 May.          US Taiwan JOC participated in BLUE SKY exercise.

23 May.          CAF and ATF Thirteen (P) signed an agreement known as the USAF-CAF Bulk Aviation on Fuel Losses Agreement.

27 May – 21   June.   Brigadier General G.E. Pinkston, Commander, Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) departed on temporary duty to Thailand for the purpose of performing duty as chief of staff for exercise DHANARAJATA.

4 June.            Agreement was signed between 6214^th Air Base Group and Detachment 1, Air Procurement Region, Far East for all administrative and logistical support for this unit.

17 June.         115 cadets and five officers from the USAF Academy arrived at Kung Shan Chinese Air Force Academy, 13 miles south of Tainan Air Base, aboard two C-130s for a one day visit.  The cadets were treated to a demonstration of precision flying by the Chinese Air Force Thundertiger jets.  The group also spent two days in Taipei area.

28 June.         Colonel Dudley P. Eaton was presented with a gold key to the City of Tainan by the Mayor, Hsin Wen-ping, for his outstanding cooperation with the local government during his two year tour.  The only other key from this mold was presented to the King of Thailand.

1 July.             There were 2,160 Air Force personnel assigned to units on Taiwan.

1 July.             The 6214^th Air Base Group and the 6214^th Air Police Squadron were inactivated.  The 6213^th and 6214^th Support Squadrons were attached to Air Task Force Thirteen (P) Det 1, 6214^th Support Squadron at Kung Kuan AB was designated and organized.  The 6212^th Unit Dispensary was attached to 6213^th Support Squadron.  The 6211^th Unit Dispensary was attached to 6214^th Support Squadron per PACAF SO G-36, 5 Jun 63.  Det 6, Thirteenth Air Force was discontinued at Kaohsiung per PACAF SO 25, 11 Apr 63.

1 July.             Upon discontinuance of the 6214^th Air Base Group at Tainan Air Station, the Comptroller Office was moved to Taipei Air Station leaving the budget, accounting and finance and statistical services activities at Tainan Air Station.  Also moved were the staff civil engineer office and staff procurement office.  The staff surgeon was assigned as additional duty to 6212^th USAF Dispensary, Tainan Air Station per PACAF SO G-37, 6 Jun 63.

13 July.           Typhoon WENDY hit Tainan and knocked out the electrical distribution system.

2 August.        Lt Col Robert M. Robinson assumed command of 6214^th Support Squadron vice Maj Edwin H. Shuman relieved per 6214^th Spt Sq SO G-1, 2 Aug 63.

19 August.      509^th Fighter Interceptor Squadron aircraft deployed to Kung Kuan AB in support of Thirteenth Air Force OPLAN 250-63, BIG TRUCK.

19 August.      Defense training exercise BIG TRUCK conducted on Taiwan.

31 August.      General Jacob E. Smart, PACAF Commander, visited Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) and other units on the island of Taiwan.

4 September.  A study of the Redistribution and Marketing Interservice Support Agreement between the Navy and Air Force was completed.  Outcome was Air Force would continue to process and conduct all sales on Taiwan.

11 September.  Typhoon GLORIA hit Taiwan.  It was the most devastating storm to visit northern end of the island during recorded weather history.   Dependent personnel were housed in hotels due to flood damage to their homes.

21 September.  The 658^th Tactical Hospital deployed to Tainan Air Station for seven days in a field training exercise.

28 September.          US Taiwan AOC participated in BLUE SKY exercise.

1 October.      Centralization of Accounting and Finance functions on Taiwan took place at Tainan Air Station.

7 – 11 October.  Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) participated in world wide command post exercise KEY CHAIN.

10 October.    Sixteen USAF and 16 USN aircraft participated in a fly-by on Double Tenth Day in Taiwan.

10 October.    The Accounting and Finance Office was inactivated on 30 September and a Disbursing Agent was established this date at Tainan AS.    Shu Linkou AS became the Accounting and Finance Office for USAF in Taiwan.  The agent was responsible for military pay and travel function.  The Air Attaché was Disbursing Agent for Taipei.

18 October.   Aircraft from 405^th Fighter Wing and 18^th Tactical Fighter Wing arrived at Kung Kuan AB for participation in SKY SOLDIER IV.

18 – 26 October.  Joint airborne defensive training exercise SKY SOLDIER/TIEN BING IV. was held on Taiwan.  It involved ground and air force personnel from the ROC and US.

November.     TASK-22, US Army plan for consolidating all DCS facilities on Taiwan under the supervision of US Army was phased into effect.

1 November.  Work and shuttle bus service was established to provide official transportation to all US Military personnel in the Taipei area.

26 November.  Joint Sino-American Defense Training Maneuvers was conducted at Sung Shan Air Base.  It was to evaluate training, equipment, maintenance and combat effectiveness of field units.  BIG DIPPER Exercise.

27 November.  Aircraft of 12^th Tactical Fighter Squadron arrived at Kung Kuan AB in support of operation BIG TRUCK.

30 November.  Tainan AB Supply was “Best in Thirteenth Air Force” for period, 1 December 1962 to 30 November 1963.

1 – 3 December.  General Curtis E. LeMay, Chief of Staff, US Air Force, visited Taipei Air Station and the US Ambassador to China.

6 December. The US Taiwan Joint Operating Center (JOC) was redesignated the US Operation Center, Taiwan, ROC (AOC) per TDCI 003120.1, 6 Dec 63.

6 December. Shu Linkou AS became responsible for the military pay performed by agents at other military activities.  Agent still paid payday roll in cash. Travel vouchers were paid by the disbursing office.

15 – 16 December.  Air Task Force Thirteen (Prov) was host to the 9999^th Reserve Squadron which visited Taiwan.

17 – 19 December.  US Taiwan AOC participated in exercise LIBERTY HEAD.

18 December.  US Taiwan AOC participated in exercise BLUE SKY.