Yesterday I received an email from his son, Lee, letting me know his father passed away last month in California. I was stationed with "Stretch" at COSL in the late 60's and again in Midway in 70-71. We made Chief together on the same day on Midway. I'm not sure if he had other tours within the system.
Thanks for the sad news O.B. Stretch (Randall Maples) was my sponsor when I arrived at Midway in early 1971. We were all OT1's, my how time flies and life seems so short. Our best wishes to the Maples family, their father will be greatly missed by all, a great person to know.
I met and served with Stretch at Centerville in the 79-81 time frame. VERY nice person. Anyone who knew him would agree. Our ranks are growing slimmer (and sadder). Very sad times.
Randy was at CVB in the 78-81 timeframe. Very pleasant fellow who loved his pipe, as I recall. RIP Chief, thank you for your service and our sincere condolences go out to the family.
