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I knew Tim as he was in my Barracks (Hooch), downstairs. I had just returned from 3-Day Leave, walking into my Hooch, happened to notice a White 8 x 10 Letter posted. A Letter to Tim's parents > "SGT. Tim McLean was LOST In ACTION", with No other explanations. He was slender 5Ft. 8Inch gentle-soul, maybe 145 Lb., but being WE had Little to NO 'ACTION' at TAKHLI (Except the day I was in AIR POLICE Office, overhearing a One-Stripe DISPATCHER respond to CALL: "INFILTRATOR in the LOX PLANT", that DISPATCHER says : "PURSUE and ANNIHILATE IF Necessary!" Short, Sweet, and I was Impressed that WE did have Good Security vs Sappers & Snipers !), I was intent on getting Answers about this 'ACTION'. During my Swing Shift, the 1st thing I did was to head to the EB-66 Tim was last known working. The CREW CHIEF was Running-Up ENG's, like the day before. Knowing me, and likely why I was there, he cut the ENG's, and broke down in tears. After catching his breath... he explained > "Mike, as soon as I heard the thud, I cut Starboard ENG. and retarded Port ENG., knowing what must have happened. Crew pulled him curled-up from the Intake, but no signs of Life." About a Month Later, I noticed New TECH. ORDERs resulting in STEEL CAGES be placed, protecting Ground-Crews from B-66's Very-Low-Hanging Engines. From that incident onward, I always wondered IF Tim's Parents were ever Informed the 'Entire-Truth' by our USAF ?. From all USAF Personnel on Takhli RTAFB, especially those of us knowing Tim, our most-heart-felt warmth to Tim's Parents, Family, & Friends, Tim was a very fine A/Craft Technician.

Mike C. A/Craft Electrician Specialist 1967-1968.