NAS Hitchcock: epilogue. (Flightbag).

This letter from Kim and Mike Brieden, 7765 Pigeon Drive, Hitchcock, TX 77563, was in response to the article "Then and Now: NAS Hitchcock, Texas" in the Nov-Dec 01 issue. Kim notes that she saw the article because someone in the Navy stationed in Hawaii read it and mailed it to his mother in Hitchcock. The woman owns an interior design firm where a friend of Kim's works. The Briedens bought items for their renovation through the store, and the owner gave the magazine to Kim's friend to pass on. If it had not been for this string of coincidences, the Briedens would never have known about the NANews article.

Four years ago, my husband and I stumbled upon the abandoned radio communications building a short distance from the main building of the base. The roof, plumbing, electrical, windows, doors and all other equipment were destroyed. But unlike most of the other structures that were made of wood and are now gone or past saving, the communications facility's brick and concrete shell remained rock solid.

My husband and I had always wanted a ranch-style home on acreage. I loved the lines and historical aspects of the Victorian-era homes on Galveston Island. The naval building was an unexpected and wonderful compromise, sitting on almost 11 acres. Renovations include fixtures and art that echo the military and naval origins of the structure. We love the fact that we've saved a small piece of local history and that our "dream home" is so unique.