In Memory of Larry Sanborn, Raven (EAPLS) President
Larry Sanborn passed away in his sleep on 1 May 2004 from an arterial disease that provided no symptoms. His unexpected passing has left a large hole in many hearts. His close association with the Special Operations and the Space communities will be greatly missed. Larry leaves behind his wife Jan and three sons by a previous marriage: Grant, Jeff and Stewart.
Larry was born and raised in Kansas. Following high school graduation, he entered the USAF Academy in June of 1961. He graduated on the 9th of June 1965 with a BS (Engineering Science) degree. Larry completed pilot training at Vance AFB, OK. After F-4 training at Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ. Larry was stationed with the 49th Tactical Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem AB, Germany. In August 1968, Larry’s wing was redeployed to Holloman AFB, NM.
Larry went to Southeast Asia during 1969-1971. His initial assignment was in an OV-10 at Chu Lai AB, Vietnam as a forward air controller (FAC) supporting the Army’s Americal Division. Larry then volunteered for the then classified Steve Canyon Program. This program provided support in Laos for the Royal Laotian forces fighting against the communist factions of Laotians and the North Vietnamese. The call sign was “Raven.” This Raven experience became a central theme in Larry’s life. He was member of the Board of Directors and the President of the association of Ravens (called the Edgar Allen Poe Literary Society) for several years prior to his passing. He was also on the Board of Directors of the Air Commando Association.
As a key member of the Raven organization, Larry greatly and positively influenced a number of projects surrounding the Raven experience. He was active in promoting and supporting the Hmong communities who settled in the United States. Larry’s experiences were featured in a book The Ravens, by Christopher Robbins. Larry was one of four Ravens who returned to Laos in 2003. Their return was documented in a feature film for Discovery Wings and was broadcast during the Spring of 2004. Larry accumulated over 1300 hours of combat time and flew more than 700 combat missions.
After SEA, Larry obtained his first Master’s Degree from the University of Denver in Electrical Engineering and taught EE at the USAF Academy. Beginning in 1974, He attended Georgia Institute of Technology where he obtained a second Master’s Degree in electromagnetics and solid state physics. In 1977, Larry returned to Colorado where he flew T-39s. During his tenure, he was an instructor pilot, flight examiner, and Chief of Standardization and Evaluation. Larry was also the designated pilot for CINC NORAD (General’s Hill and Hartinger).
From 1980-1985, Larry was the Deputy Director of Technology at Los Angeles Air Force Station where he managed research and development for new space systems. He then became Director, Surveillance and Advanced Programs Division. Larry was also acting Deputy Director, Office of Plans, Space Division during 1985-1986. He managed a number of significant space programs that were extremely important for our national defense.
Larry was the Director, Office of Research, Office of the Secretary of the Air Force in Washington, D.C. from 1986 until his retirement as a Colonel in1989. As Director, Larry managed research, development, testing, and validating new and innovative technologies for space programs. After his Air Force retirement, Larry worked for TRW as a project manager on satellite and space systems. After retirement from TRW, Larry and Jan moved from California to Ft. Walton, Florida in 2002.
Larry’s decorations include the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross (2 OLC), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, USAF Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (23 OLC), National Defense Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry.
Larry is greatly missed by his friends and family. His big smile, twinkling eyes, sense of humor, quite but extremely competent leadership were taken from us much too soon. His direct efforts made us stronger as a nation and stronger as a friend. (Lt Col John Swanson, ’68, and fellow Raven)
Just got the tape from Lloyd today. Lot of memories Good and not so Good, very emotional. Just could not believed that Larry/Sandy had left us. Could not hold my tears either. Have a good flight west and look after us, we missed you Larry/Sandy. Kham P. Manivanh CPK Red. N E V E R M O R E .
SORRY ABOUT YOUR LOSS,AND LOSS TO MANY. I NEVER DID SAY "THANKS" TO ALL YOU RAVENS FOR YOUR COURAGE AND HELP. I KNOW WITHOUT YOU GUYS THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN FEWER OF US COMING HOME. I OFTEN THINK OF THESE PAST 32 YEARS....ALL THE FAMILY, FRIENDS,JOY,LOVE,KIDS, ALL THE GOOD TIMES AND EXPIERANCES I MIGHT NEVER HAVE HAD. I AM ONLY ONE OF THE MANY.THANK YOU AGAIN.
Sandy was a do'er and he got it done. My thoughts and prayers are with Jan...and Sandy who is off flying that final mission. He is missed. Nevermore Lee Raven 26/53
Rest In Peace Sandy, you will be missed by many of us who knew you personnaly or just through this site. Condolences to his family and loved ones. We owe him for his efforts as a FAC and for his efforts to keep the memory alive and the Ravens legacy known throughout the country.
Just heard about Sandy's passing. This world is a much poorer place.
I'm deeply sorry for your loss.. Scott
Hey All, I had the pleasure of meeting Larry when I went down to the 1987 reunion, from New York. I was the publicist for Crown's hardcover edition of "The Ravens." That reunion was quite memorable, and educational, too, many different ways, but one of the highlights was getting the chance to chat with Larry, aka "Sandy." He was a true gentleman, wryly funny, and very helpful--a dear heart. He will be missed. Blessings and peace to your family and friends, Deb Rowley, Honorary Raven beewolf36@hotmail.com
When I contacted the Ravens Organization some months ago asking them some details about their aircraft, I was pleased and surprised at the same time by the warmth and patience Larry Sanborn showed in answering all my questions. After some exchanges of e-mails I felt like talking to a friend I had known since many years, although we had never met. But I always hoped to meet him one day - until yesterday, when I discovered that he had passed away: That is really sad. Dr. Joe Leeker, Germany
Jan, I am submitting this message for Col. Vang. --Cathie Hodges It is with deep sorrow that I have learned about Sandy's sudden death. I was in Minnesota when I leared the sad news. Please accept my deepest sympathy on behalf of the Hmong and Lao Assistance Association, Inc. God bless Sandy's family.(Here is the last message that Col. Vang sent to Sandy and the reason he was to come to North Carolina today.) Dear Mr Sanborn, I will ask Cathie Hodges to send you the map and Direction to get here at Samthong Village. In Samthong Village has 28 families but in Montgomery County has 200 or more families. We have three minorities 1- Hmong, Laotian and Lu. The Hmong and Lao are the majority but in Samthong the Lu are the majority because most Hmong & Lao want to buy solid home and they moved out from Samthong. Samthong is the subdivision that we start with mobile home and only minority from Laos, no local people. This place was etablished by McRae Industries who gave us a lot of effort for us to be a hope in the future and I really want to see this place change in the future for better and fit to the Hmong and Lao dream. I'm glad to hear that you and Tom was working in Lontieng ( LS 20A). I was there 1968 untill the last day we lefht May 11, 1975. Yes I will plan to be there with you and we will go to lunch together that day. I'm look foward to see you May 12,04. Geu Vang)
Jan and the rest of Sandy's family, Sandy was to come to North Carolina today to visit Samthong Village, a subdivision of Lao and Hmong residents in central North Carolina who need assistance. I contacted him after I saw the special about the Ravens on the Discovery Channel. I have never met him, but my heart hurts for you. God bless you. You have lost a jewel here on Earth, but I know he is in Heaven. Cathie Hodges
I'm very sorry to hear of the death of Sandy Sanborn. He was a warrior, a hard worker and a friend. I greatly appreciate his service to we fellow Ravens and especially his service to our country. "The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away", and in Sandy's case, he gave us one hell of a man. Thank you for his life. Dunc
Thank you Sandy, for the courage and bravery that is the Ravens. A grateful Nation wishes you God Speed.
My deepest regards to the family and friends of a true American hero, mentor and inspiration to all of us - today's Air Commando's.
I would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of kind words and support. Larry loved the Ravens and wanted the best for them and their friends. I am trying to consolidate plans for a Memorial Jun 12 and "celebration of life' at the Sheraton Four Points in FWB on June 12th and something here on Sunday. I will keep you posted as things firm up. We love you all. Jan
We share sadness in the passing of Larry Sanborn. A shocking bit of news. We met this gentleman through a great friend, Hy Yarchun. We recall the good moments with he and his wife Jan. We pass on our feeling to Jan. America lost a hero, a true Raven. George E and Muriel M. Eaton Wildomar, CA
Jan Yesterday I received my copy of Mika’s production of the Ravens. Today as I was watching it, especially the out takes, I realized that this is not only the story of the Ravens, but an especially fitting memorial for Sandy. The scene at the waterfall is very intense. Who would know a year ago, when Sandy was reading Art Cornelius’ poem beside that waterfall on the edge of the PDJ, what new and deeper meaning it would have today. Jan, you have all our sympathy and love Gene and Becky Hamner
Larry Sanborn (Raven 20) was a close friend and we spent many wonderful times in celebration of life at our homes and at the Los Angeles AFB Officers Club. I find it hard to believe this hero among heroes is gone. May he rest in everlasting peace. Happy landings Larry. Hy Yarchun Redondo Beach, California
TO the family and friends of Sandy I met sandy at the 2003 reunion and was given a welcome that was deserving of a long lost friend. Losing a person that kind and thoughtful can only make those of us who remain strive to be more of a better person. SANDY; I did not know you long,but knowing you will be remembered for a long time. TAILWINDS AND BLUE SKIES!
Distressed to hear of Sandy's untimely death. Jan, I grieve for you and hope you are doing ok. We all loved Sandy. I share your grief because I just lost my back seater to a sudden heart failure too. My lady, Beverly, passed away on April 25. We were on our way to the River Rats and FAC reunions and in a motel in Van Wert, Ohio when she suddenly died. I will try to make Sandy's memorial. Tom
My last conversations with sandy recently were about something of the past and of the future, a huge mural that I brought back from our mutual friend in Pousavan , Laos in late March 2004. Sandy was trying to figure out where to place the mural landscape of Laos in his new home. Since I leave JAX, USA May 9, I will be unable to pay my respects. For this I am saddened, but Sandy knew I was heading back to SEAsia and he understands. I and many others will miss a fine person. Ole
Dear Ravens, Lori and I went to Ft Walton this last week and saw Jan on Wed and Thurs. Obviously, she is on the raw edge of emotions. Her wonderful brother Bob was with her this last week and Jerry checks on her often. Phone calls, cards, letters, etc DO help! Jan is very appreciative of the outpouring of love and caring...but, I believe more is needed. Don't be afraid to give her a call...she needs it! Jan knows how I feel about her and Larry. I followed Larry from Chu Lai to Laos to Wash DC. He tied strings on my wrist at my retirement in 1988. He was to me (as he was to many of you) my Brother...in war and in peace. Larry's passing hurts deep. Jan, you have our love and sympathy for this great loss. John and Lori Swanson
I'm very sorry to hear about Larry. -Kevin (Richard Welch's son)
I am deeply shocked about this sad and unexpected news. Months ago I had the pleasure to communicate directly with Larry on a particular Laos issue. He was so friendly and helpul. I immediately felt his spirit and dedication to keep Ravens' history alive. We never met in person but after some emails I had the feeling of having known him for decades... A great man has gone from us. My sympathy and prayers are with his family. I shall never forget him. Hermann hgy596@web.de
Dear Jan. I was in a friend's house and computer, on a trip for another friend's daughter wedding in Mesa/Phoenix, AZ. As always I assed permission to check my email and Ravens site. It's a surprise to my wife when she came out of the bathroom saw me with tears in front of the computor and asked me "Was wrong" It took me quite a while to find the word to tell her that we'd lost "Larry" and again she asked me which Larry. I told her the Ravens President and husband of that lady best friend of mine while I try to bring up Larry's picture from site. We're so sad to loose such a dearest friend and brothers in arms, our prayers with you and family. Larry will live in our hearth and soul forever. With our deepest condolences and sympaties. Kham Phiou Manivanh & family
It's very sad when you lose the best you were or could ever have been. Jan and Sandy have done so much for so many of us that his loss has hit me harder than any of the many others. Loved both family members. Overjoyed to see how many others felt the same. Perhaps lots of us can try a little harder to be a little more to others. Nevermore, Briggs Diuguid, R-26
Hand salute to a American hero.He has flown to heights we have yet to attain.Ravens will live on forever,in our hearts and their legacy will be historical.Thank you and welcome home.
Sandy, I only met you through FACNET, but I will miss you. With greatest respect. Thank you for your service to us. Tom Rench
"High Flight Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings, Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth Of sun-split clouds - and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air. Up, up the long, delirious burning blue I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark, or even eagle flew. And, while silent, lifting mind I've trod The high untrespassed sanctity of space, Put out my hand, and touched the face of God." written by John Gillespie Magee Jr. My condolences to the Sanborn family, and to the Ravens who have lost a good friend
damn....
Jan I thought this a fitting poem to honor Larry. It was written by the poet Joyce Kilmer who was KIA in France 1918 - "In alien earth, across a troubled sea, His body lies that was so fair and young. His mouth is stopped, with half his songs unsung; His arm is still, that struck to make men free. But let no cloud of lamentation be Where, on a warrior's grave, a lyre is hung. We keep the echoes of his golden tongue, We keep the vision of his chivalry". Rest in Peace O Gallant Warrior From "In Memory of Rupert Brooke" by Joyce Kilmer
---Dad you will be sorely missed, not enough time ...Jan what a tremendous support group you have, Thanks to them all..Love Grant
I met Sandy via email about 6 weeks ago. I had written the Ravens about an edition of Christopher Robbin's The Ravens that because it had autographs and personal comments in it to a fellow raven(I had gotten it through a book search) I thought it belonged to you. Sandy was very kind and interested . We discussed our respective trips to Laos and he sent me two beautiful pictures of Luang Prabang. I am very very sorry to hear of his sudden death. I feel as if I have lost a friend too Maryann
From President Chong Neng Lucien Lee, president of the Lao-Hmong American Coalition, Wisconsin Chapter: We are deeply sad and touched to the death of a veteran friend, and nothing will replace what Larry has done to the Hmong SGU veterans. Please convey our sincere condolence to Mr. Sanborn's wife and family. Lucien Lee/VXY
See the White Eagle soaring aloft to the sky, Wakening the broad welkin with his loud battle cry; Then here's the White Eagle, full daring is he, As he sails on his pinions o'er valley and sea. Edgar Allan Poe, "A Campaign Song” ............................................. Exodus 19:4 I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself..........Rest in peace our valiant brother. Well done! Raven wp
It's hard to summarize one's feelings when a friend and a respected comrade passes. I guess the best that you can say of a man is that he was respected by his fellow men, he walked the path of his own choosing, and he walked it well. As is the custom amongst fighter pilots, I'll look to the setting sun, raise a glass in tribute and keep his memory in my heart for a long time.
Sorry to hear about our comrade in arms. Rest in Peace.
Jan-I was almost chrushed to learn of Sandy's passing. He was a friend, commrade-in-arms, and a superb spokesman for us. I can understand some of how you feel, since my wife of 36 yrs died very suddenly on 28 Feb. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Steve Reich, Raven 12
Jan, Bobbye and I are in a state of shock as I am sure many are. He stopped in to see us this past summer and it was a great visit. His warmth will be missed by us all. Our love goes out to you in the sad time. Jim (Raven 21) & Bobbye Baker
Larry was my big brother. When I first met Jan she told me of a scrapbook she had seen that I had made for Larry when he was in high school. She said she thought it was a case of hero worship. We all got a good laugh out of that, but in truth, he was my hero. He had a wonderful laugh and we had a great sister-brother bond as we grew up. Geography may have separated us, but I thought of him often. I remember playing cowboys and indians, going to Saturday movie matinees, and a million childhood memories that I don't have room for here. He was good, smart, and mischevious. And I loved him and will miss him very much. Jan, Jim and I send our deepest condolences.
We met for the first time at the 2000 reunion. He was a sincere, humble man and I knew that I met a kindred spirit when talking to him. Even though I didn't know him well, I will miss him because my life has been enhanced by knowing him. Our prayers and condolences are offered to this family.
What a devastating lost for the Lao-Hmong SGU veterans! I have met Larry and interpreted his speeches twice for the National Recognition Celebration of the Lao-Hmong SGU soldiers. One in Denver, Colorado, and one last year in Milwaukee. His words are still ringing in my ears, his friendship is living in my heart, now and forever. Larry and I had a good and joyfull time at the microphone stand, and it never come to my mind that I would lose a great friend like him. All Lao-Hmong SGU are joining me and mourn Larry's farewell. You will be in our heart for eternity. Our sincere condolence to Jan. Xia Vue Yang
Jan Amy and I are here for you and we are just a phone call away. You know how much we loved you and Sandy and it is hard to beleive that he is not with us anymore. He will always be with us in spirit and we will always love him. Our love goes out to you.
Sandy will be sorely missed. A premier person who was and is a shining example for us all. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Dear Mrs Jan Sanborn, Ho Lord, may God be with him and his family! Chue Xiong - Hmong Veteran Milwaukee, WI Colonel Xay Dang Xiong wants to share his deepest sympathy to Larry’s family members lost of this hero. Colonel Xiong pays his respect to Larry’s funeral. Thanks! Col. Xay Dang Xiong - Milwaukee, WI
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Sandy. One of the truly great guys. We shared many similar experiences and it is always hard to lose a kindred spirit. Rest in Peace.
In a framed ad for Republic Aviation that hangs on the wall in my den, there is written the following. It seems appropriate on this sad day. "So here's a 'nickel on the grass' to you, my friend, for your spirit, enthusiasm, sacrifice and courage, but most of all for your friendship. Yours is a dying breed, and when you are gone--the world will be a lesser place." And so it is. And from one of the songs that Sandy loved, "We'll all meet at that final great reunion, And fly with angels, out beyond the stars." Sharkbait and Sher-Babes
When I think of Raven, I see Larry. What a consummate gentleman and honorable warrior Larry had just edited my book which I dedicate in his honor Nevermore my friend Bob
To Jan and the rest of Sandy's family, I am so sorry. From my first phone call to Sandy almost four years ago, I knew that Sandy was a man of honor, humility, and humor. Both of you welcomed me to my first Ravens reunion and understood my vision to make a film about the Ravens. I really got to know Sandy last year as we traveled through Laos making the documentary. You can't help but get to know someone when you spend multiple nights at the Crown Royal in Bangkok with them or spend three days in a car traveling to Sam Neua from Phonsavan. I have spent the past year working closely with him on the script, editing, and distribution of the Ravens documentary and we forged a great friendship that went beyond the film. He had a passion to get the Ravens story told. I am just glad that he was a part of the expedition and that I was able to get his story captured forever. Please know that I am truly sorry. He will be missed.
PEACE BE WITH YOU - To the Family & Friends of my Brother Larry, Larry, you are now at Peace. A true Peace that you lived your life for others to have. Your Lao/Hmong Brothers and Sisters will always Remember You "Sandy", as we all will. May you look down upon us and help guide us Home to you. Amen My Brother, Love You Bro, Joe Campbell
Dear Jan, You have my deepest sympathy.It has been a privilege and an honor to to be a friend of Larry's these past years. Larry's Friend Pete & Pat Larson
My eyes well with tears as I realize that Larry has left us. Truly a gentleman and hero, who I was blessed to know. The world will be a lesser place without him. God Bless you Larry, my friend. Judith Singer
I knew sandy for only a short time he was a true warrior and a dedicated member of our great organization, Air Commando Assn he will be missed by all.
It hurts to lose a friend, but it helps to remember that he was one of the very few who made a difference. Here's to Sandy and all the good he left us.
Our sincere condolences to Larry's wife, family, and fellow Ravens. He was a great man and his loss is mourned but we will find comfort in the memories he left behind. Every time we read one of his letters, watch a Raven documentary or read Christopher Robbins' book (The Ravens), Larry and his kindred spirits will live again. Jeff and Leigh Hotujec
Art Cornelius' A TRIBUTE TO THE RAVENS comes to mind when I think of Sandy. His ready smile made you feel he was a friend as soon as you met him. One of my last conversations I had with him, he told me that he had not flown a plane since leaving active duty. I look at the expression on his face, though he said nothing else, and read, he was too busy being a good man and a friend to others. He will be missed. Regards Bill Person
I had the pleasure of meeting Sandy for the first time several years ago when the Ravens were at Oshkosh, Wisconsin for the EAA AirVenture. I have a photo (slides) of Sandy and other Ravens in front of a Birddog and I think David Hartman, TV host, was in the photo also. May God now watch over this great man. Garry L. Brandenburg, Korat RTAB, Apr 65 to Apr 66
My heart goes out to you Jan. I just talked to Sandy the Sunday before last for one hour ...great conversation but i had no idea it would be the last for sure. He was the peacemaker, always a cool head, and was the voice of love among all the Ravens. He was perfect in the role of President of EAPLS. Four of us Ravens that did the Raven documentary spent 21 days in Laos and Thailand together and i will cherish that time we had together 24/7. I am in Thailand, Laos & Vietnam right now on several missions or else i would come to Florida. I am with you spiritually in every way. God bless and keep a great American hero. Much love, Mike Cavanaugh, Raven 48
Sad! Thanks for your work.
I just learned of Sandy's passing and am shocked and extremely saddened. Sandy made me feel so welcome at last year's Raven Reunion just like I was just "supposed" to be there! He was like a mischievous child having so much fun when I let him fly my O-2A which I had brought in for the Reunion. We had a very good time on that flight and I will miss him especially if I am invited again in the future. He was a good man and an excellent representative of the warriors that the Ravens were and are.
My most sincerest condolences to all family, fellow Ravens, and friends of Larry as he takes his final flight into the vast beyond. He will be missed.
We are not Ravens or know much about the Ravens. Our connection to Sandy (We know him as Larry) is sister and brother-in-law. Along with everyone else we are shocked and saddened by Larry’s sudden passing. Sherry has such fond memories of Larry’s and her childhood and adolescent years. We want all of you to know that we loved he and Jan very much, and are devastated that he is not with us any longer. Sherry & Roger Riggert
Really sorry to hear about Sandy's passing. I flew two missions (June 18-19, 1970) with Sandy in my back seat when he was a Helix FAC (Helix 12)at Chu Lai. We were dropping ADSIDs (sismatic sensors) for the Americal div. USAF Broncos could were not cleared to drop them so the Marines came to the rescue. He was my host for the two days I spent with the Helix FACS. Ran into Sandy at FAC2000 in FWB. Had some great discussions over the weekend along with his ribbing me about the pod that "fell" of my Bronco during one of the drops. The photo lab gave me the film showing the whole event. Hate to lose a new/old friend. He will be missed. Semper Fi Hostage IGOR
My condolences to the family. Sandy's sister, Sherry is married to my brother. That how I met Sandy. I also flew King rescue in "69-70. Add my salute to a gentleman, Mel Riggert
Rest In Peace Sandy HURRAH We loop in the purple twilight We spin in the silvery dawn With columns of black smoke behind us To show where our comrades have gone So, stand to your glasses steady This world is a world full of lies Here's a toast to the dead already Hurrah for the next man who dies Above the jungles we ramble Dodging black puffs of steel For mortal stakes we gamble With cards that are stacked for the deal So, stand to your glasses steady This world is a world full of lies Here's a toast to the dead already Hurrah for the next man who dies Denied by the land that bore us Betrayed by the ones we hold dear The good have all gone before us And only the hard are here So, stand to your glasses steady This world is a world full of lies Here's a toast to the dead already Hurrah for the next man who dies Cut off from the land that bore us Betrayed by the land we find When the brightest have gone before us And the dullest are left behind So, stand to your glasses steady Honor's all we've left to prize A cup to the dead already Hurrah for the next man who dies We stand 'neath resounding rafters The walls around us are near They echo back our laughter It seems that the dead are all here Stand to your glasses steady We drink to our comrades up North One cup to the dead already Hurrah for the next man who dies Author Unknown
I did not know him but if he was anything like Karen he must have been a heck of a guy. He is at peace now, God Bless
Words simply cannot express how deeply saddened I am. Sandy is in my prayers.
After many years of the knowledge of the Ravens and at the ACA reunion last year, I met Sandy and discussed by knowledge of the Ravens and my interest of attending a Raven reunion but my concern that my civilian status at NKP might not be valid for membership. Sandy encouraged strongly that I join as a guest and join your outstanding organization. His warmth and encouragement was significant in my attending last years reunion. Without his reinforcement, I probably would not have attended. Because of his strong resolve about keeping the Ravens as an unforgettalbe organization, I will continue to participate in his memory. My condolences to Jan and to the Ravens. Cal Laizure Task Force Alpha NKP 67-69
Jan, What a loss to this world and the RAVEN family. Sandy will be missed, but his love for humanity will live on. You and he have done wonders for EAPLS and the RAVENS. Our prayers are with you and the family during this difficult time. NEVERMORE, Vinny & Earldean
a great guy, a great lose. our prayers go out to his family
Jan, Our thoughts and Love are with you. Max & Betty
Jan our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time. Larry's humor and positive concern that all of us who were involved in the Laos FAC war years come home to the RAVEN fold. Now heaven's Raven Hootch has a new member. He will be missed here,but will always remain in our thoughts and hearts.............Jim & Helen
Farewell Sandy, You will be missed. Our world has become a better place because of you. Your tireless efforts being a significant part in shaping it. I am reminded of your annual recitation of Art's poem where you said, "I'd have been a better friend, but I trusted time". I can think of many things that I wish I had told you about how pleased we were in your leadership of our group. Your time has now come and you are in good company my friend, "Nevermore Until Tomorrow". Don Moody
Dear Jan, My deepest sympathy. I first met sandy at Oshkosh when the Ravens had a tent and I was interviewing Ravens for my book, "Hit My Smoke" Luckily I have his authgraph in my copy. Jan Churchill www.janchurchill.com
As a friend of the Ravens, this is very sad news. Last July Sandy and I were amongst the invited guests at the National Lao-Hmong Recogition Day in Wisconsin. Sandy was one of the Keynote Speakers. My condolences to his family.
I and my family are in a state of shock! We and all the Ravens will miss Sandy. The Ravens will miss him, both individually and as an organization. God Speed.
Learning of Sandy's passing has shocked me to my deepest parts! I met Sandy in Luang Prabang and we learned to fly together. I remember him "checking me out" in the U-17. What a check out it was: He told me where the plane was parked and that the Operators Manual was in the "Glove box". Go read it, then fly it. That was Sandy ... never doubting a person's ability. We worked together on many occasions, partly in my later job as "Head Raven". Sandy always was of sound mind, with a "get the job done" attitude. Sandy was one person I could always trust completely and count on to do the right thing. Sometimes I knew he knew more than he was telling me, but that was OK with me because the trust was there. I attended a Raven Reunion a few years back: I'm not really into "reunions", but Sandy was the one person that I looked forward to seeing in that sea of unrecognized faces. Time changed so many ... except Sandy. Steady, true, loyal, friendly ... always a friend. NeverMore "Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth, And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings: Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth Of sun-split clouds - and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soured and swung High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air .... Up, up the long delirious, burning blue I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace, Where never lark or even eagle flew - And while with silent, lifting mind I've trod The high untrespassing sanctity of space, Put out my hand and touched the face of God. John Magee
Sandy was a great warrior and Raven leader. His passing is a loss to us all and to most more than they will ever know. All Ravens must fly west one last time. As always Sandy leads the way. With affection and respect/Jim
To Jan and all Ravens. Sandy was my commander and my friend. He was a special friend of those Ravens who could not attend reunions and made it a personal work to make us feel that we were a true part of the organization. One of the words that Sandy often used when writing to me was "heart." Sandy understood heart; he had heart. By now, Jan has read my last email to Sandy sent just after midnight today in which I vowed that I would be at either the 2005 or 2006 reunion. It is the first time that I made such a promise to Sandy. It is painful to contemplate a reunion without Sandy, but I will keep that promise. Because it was made to Sandy Sanborn, Raven, freedom fighter, patriot, friend. Raven Pepsi
Our condolences go out to you Jan, and to all of the Ravens & Friends. We will all miss Sandy. We are very much saddened by his passing. Lance & Chris Borden
I was lucky enough to know Sandy since August, 1963. At the time, he was one of my upper classmen in 15th Squadron at the United States Air Force Academy. Even then, I remember being impressed with his maturity, positive attitude, sense of humor, people skills, and common sense. Those impressions grew over the years I knew Sandy. I can’t say enough about what a great job he did as president of EAPLS. Under his guidance, the organization grew and became more inclusive. He made a mark that will be long remembered. I’ll never forget his ready smile, kind words, and genuine concern for everyone around him. Sandy, we miss you a bunch. Love, Ed
You will be deary missed and will live forever in our hearth and soul. Have a good flight west my dearest friend. Kham Phiou Manivanh, CPK Red. Nevermore.
Dearest Jan, What very sad news. Your husband was indeed a very kind man. I know that he will be greatly missed. My very best to you, Cassandra Tousley
To Jan we offer our condolences, To Sandy we say Farewell my Friend. You will be dearly missed.