Welcome to Antarctica!

Shannon Beliveau, Lebanon NH — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 22:30:47 GMT

Hope you are having fun! and i think it is really cool that you are doing this. right now i know somebody who is at mcmurdo station other than you. he said in his blog that you were there!

Welcome to Antarctica!

RW,NY,NY — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:40:49 GMT

honestly, i can not wait to see these places.. only the today show can do this in a way that is going to spectacular... like the today goes wild. its going to be beautiful,breath taking and very informative....
thanks from a very loyal viewer

Welcome to Antarctica!

Lisa Lyons, Scottsdale, AR — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 02:06:16 GMT

I'm so glad that the Today Show has made it to Antarctica! My siblings are there as part of the support there. My brother, Tim, wintered over and has just left the South Pole Station for a break. And my sister, Susie, who you may have had the pleasure of meeting is currently at McMurdo. Say hello to both of them for me! There are some truly incredible, adventurous and tenacious people down there and I know you'll enjoy the time spent "on the ice".

Welcome to Antarctica!

Sharon Mitchell, Newhall, CA — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 06:20:47 GMT

Ann Curry and Antarctica.....son is there as an intern for CSU-Fort Collins and I am trying to reach her. (per your article request)

Welcome to Antarctica!

warwixk, rhode island, Linda Reardon — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 11:33:58 GMT

My father was one of the first crew to go back to Antartica after Admiril Bird. He was there 4 times.. He was in Navy, he wintered over twice and was there twice for 6 month's each time. I grew up looking at home movies of christ Church, Mcmurdo sound and the wonder Penguins.. all on home movie's.. What stories he told and what memories you are bringing back by going there. I envy you your trip.. Stay warm..

Welcome to Antarctica!

Jadon and Joel Kessler — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:21:03 GMT

Hi, Ann! My brother and I are homeschooled, and since our Uncle Aaron and Aunt Michelle started working on the kitchen staff at McMurdo this year we've been studying about Antartica. We are excited about seeing your trip on the Today Show! Our favorite update from our Aunt and Uncle was when they sent photos of the Aurora Lights and the Lunar Eclipse (Aug. 28th). If you get to see the lights we would love to see a video clip of them. -- And ofcourse, it would be great if you could meet our aunt and uncle (Michelle and Aaron Barbee). They are really fun!

Thank you,
Jadon and Joel (3rd and 1st grade)

Welcome to Antarctica!

Beth Smith — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:38:41 GMT

I hope you enjoy the beauty of the "ICE", there is so much to see and appreciate. I spent a summer and a winter at McMurdo and it was one of the best 13 months of my life.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Patricia Navarro, Miami, Florida — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:43:11 GMT

I am so excited to see through your eyes the most amazing place on earth. This is a great oportunity to know about our planet and you guys are the best!...
(If you need a volunteer on your next adventure, please count on me!!...)

Welcome to Antarctica!

Mary Kannegeisser Pryor, Oklahoma — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:49:55 GMT

Dear Ann, I am so glad you made it safely. My brother is there as part of the support workers. He is working in the power plant, look him up and say HI for me. He loves it there being a retired science teacher from Iowa. I am very excited to hear about the Pole my brother would like to be able to get there. Mary K ( Pryor, Oklahoma)

Welcome to Antarctica!

Sue, Savage, MN — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:06:28 GMT

HI Ann,
Just heard from my sister that she had breakfast with you. It is the only continent that I haven't visited, so wish I was there with you. What an amazing journey!
Sue

Welcome to Antarctica!

Jack Perrault — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:26:47 GMT

Ann, I think it is outstanding that you get to see a part of the Earth that only 1% of the whole world's population gets to see, enjoy it. There is only one temperture in Antarctica "hot and dusty", and sleep is over rated! You are now an official OAE, welcome.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Heidi McCaffray, WA — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:37:00 GMT

I spent two fantastic summers and a winter on the "Ice"! Make sure you stop by and visit the Air Traffic Controllers and ask them about mid-winter evacuations! It's a really unique operation! Enjoy your adventure I know I did!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Jessica Maverick — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:29:14 GMT

In Antarctica there is a young man who had headed up the solid waste program for many years. His name is James VanMatre and he is sexy and savvy. Your audience will absolutely love him. He is a strong environmentalist. In addition, he educates himself in the regulations and follows them in all phases of the Antarctic operation. James also makes sure his team enjoys their work. You might be interested in their video version of "West Side Story" and others, their band, their participation in the New Years celebration parade. These persons who serve in Antarctica are a rare breed. They do a great service as part of the NSF team, even tho they work for a contractor. Rachel Murray is also a delight to know. She hails from Australia and outfits scientists for their campouts around the glaciers. Rachel is an avid photographer and loves penguins. Her photos and stories have been published online for BBC and in Queensland, Australia, newspapers. Ann should make an effort to meet and get to know these 2 people and other TOTAL individuals who spend time in the ice desert.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Kevin Zuill, Hamilton, Bermuda — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:45:54 GMT

Good morning Ann, I just wanted to invite you to the McMurdo Weather office and maybe help release a weather balloon one day. You are more than welcome to stop by any time, maybe get a brief before your pole flight. Enjoy your day.

Welcome to Antarctica!

joe m — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:46:59 GMT

I was in Antarctica in 1969-1970 around Palmer Station. Check out my YouTube video about the "sea" route to Antarctica back then. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOvBgeeyi4o It is great that you are bringing attention to our vast world. Maybe the Ecodites, (modern day Luddites) AND the rest of us will learn something. thanks

Welcome to Antarctica!

Bryan Berg, Jacksonville, Florida (Doha, Qatar at present) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 18:52:59 GMT

Please make an effort to meet the people that are there working behind the scenes. Without them the scientist would not be able to do a thing. Everytime a news team or documentary team go there the workers are seldom mentioned. I was there for many seasons as a vehicle mechanic. Hope you enjoy.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Kita Olsen, Twin Lakes, WI — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 19:25:26 GMT

Hi Ann- I hope you enjoy the "ice" as we call it. I was fortunate enough to work in McMurdo for 3 seasons- winter, then summer and winter. It is still the most beautiful place on earth I have seen. Have a drink at Gallaghers while you are there-- best wishes
Kita

Welcome to Antarctica!

Angela, McMurdo Station, Antarctica — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 19:55:34 GMT

Hi Ann and Matt,
Angela here at McMurdo Weather. I second Kevin's invite to Building 165 (weather office) for a 10:30am weather balloon launch today if you have time. We know all the South Pole flights have been cancelled, but you might have a "plan B" already in motion. Call us at ext. 2523 if you want to stop in.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Sandra and Ron, AuGres, MI — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 19:56:54 GMT

Hello Ann, Our son Brandon, just arrived at the South Pole Station a few days ago. He is working as construction superintendent. Please say "hi" and give him a hug for us. This is his first time on the ice. Thank you.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Joshua Parsippany nj — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 20:25:48 GMT

How fun would that be to land in Antarctica.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Steve Fears, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 21:24:58 GMT

Gee, I think that the name should be changed to ANNtartica to honor the wonderful Ann Curry. Glad you made it there safely, and please return home safely, too.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Trish, Charleston, SC — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 21:52:28 GMT

I doubt the Today team will be going to Antarctica on 01 Nov. The weather conditions will be below minimums for the aircraft much of the day. The Today crew ought to make sure that they speak with the weather crew at McMurdo Station and South Pole. Weather influences everything on the continent. By the way, The weather support for much of the continent, including South Pole, is forecasted by a stupendous team of 4 individuals at SPAWAR Charleston, SC.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Trish Christensen, Louisville CO — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 21:59:52 GMT

How jealous am I of your visit to the ICE! I summered over 2005-06 as a firefighter and it truly is still one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Antarctica is definitely one of the most beautiful places on earth and impossible to explain adequately to those who haven't been able to live it. Keep your eyes out for the mirages and nacreous clouds...gorgeous! I have friends that are there again year after year (Hi FF Diane!) and one of my dear friends, Lt Col Jim McGann was your C-17 cruise director from CHCH. Hello to all of you!!!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Bill O'Reilly — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 22:24:22 GMT

Please say hello to our daughter Suzanne, who just arrived at the Pole last week to spend a year. She lives in New Orleans and experienced hurricanes Katrina and Rita...now to the other extreme in Antarctica.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Charlene A. Greene,San Antonio, Puerto Rico — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 22:25:56 GMT

I am so excite to see Antartica and to know more about earth. I am a history teacher in Puerto Rico. How can I have a copy of your video to my students. Thank you for doing this wonderful work for us. Next time invite me to go.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Debbie Miller, Boise, Idaho — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 22:27:07 GMT

Hi Ann, You will learn that Antarctica is unique and beautiful. My husband (Arlyn Miller) is down there as part of the oversight done by the Department of The Interior for the National Science Foundation. This is his 3rd year there and when back in the States, he has made presentations to groups (Boy Scouts, etc) about Antarctica. He is suppose to be with you on the flight to the Pole. Enjoy your stay and it is good that you guys are doing this documentary so everyone will learn that Antarctica is more than ice and cold.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Jen Gomula, New Bedford, MA — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 22:58:14 GMT

Say hi to my father when you see him (Col. Brian Gomula-109th Air National Guard). We will miss him while he's gone.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Linda Denville NJ — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:26:27 GMT

Ann, I hope you will say hi and give my love to my dear friend Kaneen Christensen, who has been "on the ice" a number of times now doing wonderful things at McMurdo and sharing breathtaking photography with me. Have a safe stay.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Bob Rip, Ontario, CA 91762 — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:40:06 GMT

It is terribly ironic that your story on being "green" requires such an expense of fossil fuels. Equally ironic is that the only blogs you are willing to post are the feel good ditties that support your insanity.

Welcome to Antarctica!

David Akin, Mayville,New York — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:41:37 GMT

Congratulations Ann,
You will be an offical "Ice Person" when you complete Snow CraftI or "Happy Camper School"! I hope it is in your itinerary. Also be sure to stop by MAC OPS,..your communications folk will really enjoy that place. And another must see for you and your viewers is the Crary Labs. Super Cool Science stuff there.
Oh! and last but not least plase stop by and say hello to the folks at Fleet Ops Heavy Equipment section,.. They work very hard around the clock to make and maintain the very unique Ice runway that everyone lands on when they arrive at MACTOWN.
Thank you very much and have a safe journey!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Scot Jackson, South Pole Station and Silverton, Colorado — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:42:28 GMT

Looking forward to seeing you down here at the South Pole!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Beth Weinberger, Las Vegas, Nevada — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:13:13 GMT

Hi Ann, My "surrogate" daugher, Moira Greenspun, is spending the season at McMurdo and although we've been getting amazing e-mails, I miss her face! So please give her a hug for us tell her to wave at the camera. Have fun and don't freeze.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Lisa Rabinsky, Boca Raton, Florida — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:46:51 GMT

I can't wait to see the program! My kids and I are so excited. If you meet my sister, Kaneen, tell her we said to stay warm! She sends me the most amazing pictures from there.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Amy Bradstreet, Gresham, Oregon — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:54:33 GMT

Ann, please say Hi to our friends Scott and Mandy Gilbert!! Scott is the chef at McMurdo and Mandy works dispatch. Watch out for Leopard Seals!!!!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Theresa A. Cassidy, Forestburgh, N.Y. 12777 — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 01:46:06 GMT

Hello Ann and Staff, Can't wait to see the program, I've already asked several friends to tape it for me as I am illiterate as far as programming my VCR. My son John, who usually does the programming is at McMurdo Station now as a firefighter. John was a "winfly" and before he left he showed me everything I needed to know with the computer but the VCR just slipped our minds. I hope you have as much fun on the ice as he says he is having, and while you are there, if you can check out the Fire Dept., and give my son a hug for me. Thanks, Theresa Cassidy

Welcome to Antarctica!

Leonardo Munoz , Delano ,Calif 93215 — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 01:56:21 GMT

Hi Ann My Son Caesar Munoz is one of the chef at McMurdo and this is his second tour there he love it there hope you too

Welcome to Antarctica!

The Federers and Otts , Granville,OH — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 01:56:44 GMT

Hi Ann and everyone else at the Today show... please say hello to our family on the ice- Matt and Debbie Boissy and Jim Ott.

Welcome to Antarctica!

John Santiago Tampa,FL — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 03:35:54 GMT

Can't wait to see Ann, Matt and Al from their locations. I think it is important for all of us to see these natural wonders. It's also very important for future generations to see these wonders intact. Hope we can all learn something about these places.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Rick Pietrek, Independence, Wi Doha, Qatar — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 04:34:40 GMT

Ann, Great to hear you're in Antarctica. Please take the time to meet the true workers of McMurdo and South Pole. Without these behind the scenes personnel, science would not take place on such grand scale. Heavy shop rocks!!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Deon Douglass, Lewiston, Idaho — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 05:05:43 GMT

Ann,
Tell Dawn hi from all of her friends and family in Idaho! We hope you have safe trip!

Welcome to Antarctica!

JoAnn Harvey. Centennial. CO — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 05:11:48 GMT

I watch the Today show every morning and am particularly interested in your trip because my neighbor and friend, Valerie Carroll, is working there at present. Hope you meet her - she's the gal that has a huge smile for everyone and a fun personality to go with it. Am sure this will be a trip you will never forget - lucky you!!!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Kolene Krysl — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 06:32:02 GMT

am a school teacher from Omaha, Nebraska and I am celebrating my seventh year anniversary of stepping on the Antarctic Ice! (http://tea.armadaproject.org/krysl/11.1.2000.html)
I went down as part of Teacher's Experiencing Antarctica and the Arctic sponsored by NSF, USAP, CRREL and Rice University. I worked with scientists from the Univ.of Minnesota (St. Paul) out at Big Razorback Island. I was able to live and work with an amazing group of people who taught me so much and let me experience so many things. I love to talk to students about what it is like to be a scientist down there. I want to go back!

Will you get a chance to go to a field camp to show people how scientists live in small huts at field camps, some which sit on the frozen ocean, like ours did?

Everyone talks about the penguins, don't forget the Weddell Seals. They were part of my job down there and they are so cool to see. You should try to get out to a place where you'll see babies, they were and are being born about now.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Anita Wagner, Watford City, ND — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 13:09:48 GMT

Hi Ann,
We have a granddaughter there, Megan Berg, who is the Media Specialist, for the Andrill Project. She is a delight. She was there last year also. What a great experience!! We are looking forward to your show.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Amy Munsterman, Lincoln, Nebraska — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:24:47 GMT

Hi Ann- My husband, Richard Levy of ANDRILL is a geologist based at McMurdo Station. He said you interviewed him yesterday so we are hoping to see him on TV back here in Nebraska. I know you have met many people - He is a New Zealander with a very sexy accent and he is quite cute. If you see him again, you have my "permission" (and his, I'm sure!) to give him a big hug from his wife, Amy and daughters, Sophia (6) and Maya (3). We haven't seen him since September 23rd so his girls would be thrilled to see their daddy on TV! Stay warm!!

Welcome to Antarctica!

L. Corsentino, Mechanicsville, VA — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:31:55 GMT

Hi Ms. Curry,
We are studying the continents and are looking forward to your stories from Antarctica. We live in Mechanicsville, Virginia and attend Hanover High School. Thanks for helping us learn more about Antarctica.

Welcome to Antarctica!

SHELIA MEAZELL, ATHENS, TX — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:47:17 GMT

Ann, my husband Bobby said he spoke to you at breakfast yesterday and mentioned your hands were very cold. Keep those gloves on.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Major Jody Ankabrandt, 109 AW, Scotia,NY — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 17:00:51 GMT

Anne and NBC, Welcome to MACTOWN! Do stop by and meet the proud men and women of the 109AW, New York Air Guard. These "polar heroes" fly and maintain the only LC-130 "Skibirds" in the world. Serving with distinction, they support science at the south pole and in Greenland. Have a wonderful trip!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Jane Leard Waltham Mass — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 18:51:23 GMT

Say Hi to our son, Tom Leard, on the kitchen crew. He's on a mission to visit all of the continents. What a guy. Enjoy your stay.

Welcome to Antarctica!

James K Buchanan; Rockford Illinois — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 19:11:14 GMT

Ann & Company

While you are in the Antarctic and if you have time look up my son, Anthony Buchanan. He has been there for seven years and has much to say about the program. Beware of his sense of humor!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Sandra Mazzeo, Morrison, CO — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 19:20:32 GMT

My husband is the facilities manager for the polar stations (Dan Mazzeo). He is down there right now.
I think it is great that you are doing this show about Antarctica and McMurdo Station.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Kathleen Sowa — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 19:21:05 GMT

How cool, our friend Dave Schieding is their, can't wait to see your taping of Antarctica, Dave sends our family the most fascinating pictures, stay warm and kudos's to you for going their.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Richrad Spinney, Ellsworth, ME — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 20:43:39 GMT

I am really looking forward to seeing Antarctica on the Today show. Who better to go than Ann? (Although I thought "Where in the World is Matt Lauer?" would have gone before now.) I've been there myself on a U.S. Coast Guard ship (yes, the Coast Guard does go there) - the icebreaker Glacier - in 1969-1970. We refueled and resupplied Palmer Station and ferried scientists (and one kitten) to and from via Punta Arenas, Chile. I'm still in touch with some fellow crewmembers. I had read about Antarctica in The Weekly Reader when in 5th grade and some 12 years later had the good fortune to go there. Serendipity. One really has to go there to fully appreciate it - like the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Photos do neither justice. I wish everybody in Antarctia well. Summer is on its way!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Richard Spinney, Ellsworth, ME — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 21:02:27 GMT

I just went through the comments above again and read, "I was in Antarctica in 1969-1970 around Palmer Station. Check out my YouTube video about the "sea" route to Antarctica back then. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOvBgeeyi4o" The author of that and I made the SAME TRIP! We also lost a boat on one of the islands when it broached. I also remember that rogue wave; it broke over the bridge! I was a QM3 on that trip.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Anne, McMurdo Station, Antarctica — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 21:49:48 GMT

Too bad the Today show didn't bring some of the package mail south with them.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Tier French, Roslindale,Ma — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 22:29:41 GMT

Hi Ann! My question is simple & maybe alittle silly. But, since we are trying to go "green",& most believe in global warming(me included). What kind of light bulbs are they useing there? Have they done any testing on how they impact the Continent w/ the fuel they use or anything else they use? It would be interesting to know if they think that they might be contributing to "global warming" in any way. They do a heck of alot of studies there!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Sherry, Manassas, VA — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 23:00:19 GMT

My father was with the first winter-over party with the Navy. I still have all his pictures/slides of the winterland he called home for a year. Although you have the benefit of better technology to show us the continent and the people who work there, his pictures showed the beauty of a world touched by even fewer people. Cheers!

Welcome to Antarctica!

William Coe, Atlanta, Ga. — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:03:47 GMT

Hi Ann I also want to invite you to visit the Ground Electronics Shop here at McMurdo. We're actually the guys who ensures the equiptment on the ground both Weather & The Landing Systems are running smoothly to allow aircraft to land.
We're hoping you guys would pay a visit to our town & runway shops to see how we play the part of keeping equiptment up and running from weather, radio becons, and radars. All these peices are the essential elements to a smooth and continuous rotation of inbound and outbound flights.
So after your visit to the Weather Office, you guys must stop by here so we can show you from the ground what it really looks like to see that plane full of cargo landing on about 6' - 8' thick sheet of ice.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Eric Wait, Mailand, Florida — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:07:53 GMT

I really think it is great. I just want to say hi to my friend Micah Pace who is one of the chefs there and tell him to get me an autograph from Ann. Micah actually mentioned that the Today show was going to be their on Facebook.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Ryan Adams, Lakewood, Co — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 01:28:48 GMT

You should totally talk to Nate Williams (tall guy, big ears). I know he kept his mom's 3rd grade class on the edge of their seats when he talked to them about a month ago.

ps. You have my permission to give him a big hug too...

Welcome to Antarctica!

Bonnie Segerstrom, Sterling, CO — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 03:28:50 GMT

Hi Ann:
My cousin Rich Vaitonis (stretch) has been going to the ice since l997.He is a heavy equipment operator. He met his wife Carol there. I believe she is in the mail room. I know she had lunch with you yesterday. Please say hello from me and my family.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Jerry McDaniel, Clarksburg, Tennessee — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:49:12 GMT

My cousin, Navy Airman Fred Williams crashed and was killed in Anarctica on 30 December 1946. He is buried along with two of his peers under an aircraft wing under 150 feet of ice. There is a memorial at McMurdo which honors these three outstanding Americans. Fred was the last purpose offically to die in World War since the Executive Order to end World War II was signed to become effective at midnight on 31 December 1946. It would please the many relatives of these airmen if their memories were addressed by Ann while your team is there. Right now, we are working very hard in trying to convince the Secretary of the Navy to return their bodies from Antarctica to their families for burial. Wish your team a very great trip!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Juanita, Bakersfield, CA — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 06:38:38 GMT

Hi Ann -
It's awesome that you will be spending time in Antartica !! I hope you enjoy the food at McMurdo, as my son is a Chef at McMurdo. One thing that stands out in Antartica is the comradary at McMurdo. Send my love to Caesar, from Jazzy, Mom, Leo,and Ray.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Karen R. Owens — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 12:33:06 GMT

Dear Ann, Are you anywhere near Mount Lopez on Thurston Island, which is named after Navy Ensign Maxwell A. Lopez who lies buried under 150 feet of snow and ice along with two crewmates, Aviation Machinist's 1st Class Fred Williams and Aviation Radioman 1st Class Wendell Hendersin. Their PB5 Mariner aircraft crashed in bad weather during Admiral Byrd's fourth Antarctic expedition in 1946. Seven other airmen survived the crash and were rescued after surviving for 13 days. A compelling story is now developing, as the George One/Operation Highjump Crew Recovery Operation to recover the three Naval explorers is now under consideration by the U.S. Navy. The proposed mission would begin this December with a survey using ground penetration radar to precisely locate and map the crash site, and a recovery operation would take place next year. Mission director Lou Sapienza previously led the Greenland Expedition Society in the successful recovery of the World War II P-38 Lightning Glacier Girl from 288 feet below the Greenland Ice Sheet. We are awaiting word as to whether the Navy will provide financial support for the proposed Highjump mission. My cousins, Rich and Ted Lopez, are nephews of Ensign Max Lopez. They are working tirelessly along with the families of the two other crew members to bring these three heroes home. More information is provided at www.george1recovery.org, and the story is briefly described in the October 29 issue of CQ (Congressional Quarterly) Weekly - Vantage Point.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Florence Brick, Daytona Beach, Florida — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 12:51:21 GMT

Ann, it is such a big thrill for me, being 68 years old and never had this chance before, to send this message to the South Pole......WOW!!!!! Call me
Grandma Flory Brick....please read this message and
say Hi !!!!!! Thank you....Ann

Welcome to Antarctica!

Carol Sussman, Hollywood, Florida — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 12:55:47 GMT

Please say hello to my daughter, Sheri and son-in-law, Michiel who work in the IT Dept at McMurdo. They have spent several Antarctic summers there at the science base. Sheri is a drummer in several bands there, and Michiel competes in the Marathon run they have. Thanks.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Tim Anderson, Middleton,WI — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 13:20:38 GMT

Ann & Company,
Stop and say hi to my son Jordan anderson who is finally leaving today hopefully after his nine month tour down there in network support.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Anastasia Pitses, Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan. — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 13:39:45 GMT

Hi Ann! I'm so excited for you. I have always wanted to go to Antarctica. It must be beautiful beyond belief! Please send thanks to all scientists and staff who work so hard in a harsh environment. All of us have to be concerned about our planet, climate changes, pollution and overpopulation. Thank you for doing this. Have a safe trip back!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Sandy David, Milwaukee, WI — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 13:43:07 GMT

Ann, I think one of your "ice" escorts will be Julie Bonneau. I work with her mother in Milwaukee. If posible, please say "hi" to Julie from everyone at home! Thank you for sharing your "ice" experience with all of us. I'm sure it will be interesting and eye-opening! Safe travels.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Carolyn White, Indianapolis, IN. — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 14:21:21 GMT

I deeply admire your courage in taking on this venture and I love the fact that the Today Show is stepping out to provide such important info to all of us. Many blessings to you as you continue in this venture.
Since cold weather and I are not the best of friends, most of my travels have been to warm places. The coldest place I've ever visited was Wyoming in late September. (and I thought that was cold!!)So I consider this a "special treat" to be able to "follow you" in this experience.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Gale, Balad AB, Iraq — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 14:23:54 GMT

Hi Ann,
I spent last "summer" season at McMurdo as an Air Traffic Controller in "Mac Center"! The experience is one that I will never forget! Please stop by Mac Center & Ice Tower to say Hi to the controllers. They are a fantastic group of people & do a wonderful job getting all the missions back safely to home base. Have a great trip!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Aaron, Denver, Colorado — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 19:29:32 GMT

Ann,

Sooooooooooooooooo awesome that you all made it down to the "ice". You should ask for stories around McMurdo about my friend Kevin Williams. He was a garbage man at McMurdo. He is a legend down there. His brother Nate is there right now. Have you met him? He is not a legend. He is just the legends brother. Toodles.

Welcome to Antarctica!

George G Fabik, Allentown, Pa. — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 23:07:41 GMT

Matt.....I really hope you shoot from the deck that contains the memorial plaques to the the americans who died in the Antarctic. There are still two living
aircrewmen from that plane crash and they have never
seem those them...they are beautiful.Been there, done
that. These were my friends.
George G Fabik USN (retired)

Welcome to Antarctica!

Pat Brown, Memphis, TN — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 23:08:45 GMT

To the Today Show Team –
Good luck and know that your adventure is being well tracked here in the States. It came up in discussion during a business meeting I was in – glad to know there are fellow Today show watchers here at the office.

Hopefully you have already seen the posts from many of the family members of the first three Americans to die (and be buried) on Antarctica. We’ve been reading and posting since Ann’s Post on Monday.

Any opportunity you have to reflect on this story will be cherished by all off us. The desire to finally bring home these heroes from the makeshift grave their crewmates were forced to leave them in still burns great sixty years later. While at McCurdo we hope you got to see the Plaque that the surviving crew had commissioned and placed there to honor Fred Williams, Maxwell Lopez and Wendell Hendersin.

The timing of your visit there is especially meaningful to us as we await word from the Secretary of the Navy Winter regarding the Navy’s support to bring these sailors home.

Our prayers go to you for your safe journey. And if your schedule allows – we hope you can pause and represent us in paying tribute to our loved ones who we hope will soon be returned home.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Kathy Hughes, Roxboro, NC — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 11:45:56 GMT

My cousin Tom just arrived at McMurdo station. He works as part of the kitchen staff, but he spends his down down exploring the area. I bet he can take you to some amazing sites! Love ya Tom!!!!

Welcome to Antarctica!

Beth Larson, Minneapolis, MN — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 16:39:56 GMT

hello Ann,
i am glad you made it safely to the ICE, as my friend Kevin calls it. i tried emailing the today show with a question, but am not sure if it got to you. i was wondering if you would be able to say hello and happy belated birthday to my friend Kevin Lindburg from Stromsburg NE. and have a spectacular experience there with your crew. God bless you :)

Welcome to Antarctica!

Judy Fay Hiddenite ,NC — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 18:59:13 GMT

Hi Ann. My son-inlaw,Major Roger Shapiro, is a C130 pilot and should have arrived in Antarctica to do his first month tour of duty. Major Shapiro is based at Stratton Air National Guard Base located in Glenville NY. He has done this duty on a number of occasions as well as other missions to Greenland where Matt will soon be landing. I enjoy the Today show as many times a week as I can. I have been watching you since you first appeared with your pixi haircut.

Welcome to Antarctica!

Ann Purcell — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:15:02 GMT

greetings--my nephew Tom Leard is working there he has worked very hard to get accepted to the program and is so excited to be there-- We are all proud of Tom and how hard he has worked

Welcome to Antarctica!

Howard Crofoot, Deltona, Florida — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:14:22 GMT

Ann
Isent a comment in and it was posted. Now I see it was pulled. I quess you people really arn,t interested in the parts of the Antarctic that isn,t as green as they would have believe.