Mikello

Happy to hear that Eugene Matos is now the President of Canada-Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Ottawa-Canada. I know he was Director of the Dominican Republic Tourism Office in Canada in 1986-88. In 1992, Dr. Matos was able to get 13 scholarship for dominican Air Force Officers to participate for the first time in NATO exercises in Petawawa, Ontario Canada. They are the only military to have the Canadian Air Force wing.

On behave of 550 skydivers from all over the world, we thanks Mr. Eugene Matos from the Dominican Republic Air Force for his effort made during this year 2003 AF boogie. We just received an excellent treatment at San Isidro Air Base. One full week, few free jumps but at least great time. The Dominican government is greatful to Mr. Eugene Matos and his wife for his incredible contribution to San Isidro military Hospital. 150,000 USD in beds, and hospital equipments donations in December 2001. This went to Ramon De Lara Hospital. Other past donations by Mr. Matos are registered at the Air Force, 1994, 1998, 1999 and 2000. In collaboration with Dr. Castan from Montreal, made possible the opening of Jesus te Ama clinic in Santo Domingo, 75% of their equipment came from Canada. Again with hospital equipments like: Xray bed, wheelchairs, clothing etc. All together with an approx value of 300,000USD. And incredible work ! without a single publicity. By the way, I heard that Mr. Matos and his wife received the highest distinction of the Air Force last Feb. 15, 2002, done in person by the Major General Bueno Vasquez, and President Mejia, for their contribution to the Air Force and Dominican society. Regards; Mike. Italy.

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I had a beautiful time in the Dominican Republic, not only during this Feb. 2003 anniversary but also during three precedent boogies in 1995, 1997 and 1999. Without requesting it, my contribution fee was fully returned to me at the base by Mr. Matos. We had free jumps, free accomodation in San Isidro and the best of all, we made some 5 city tours and beach tours in a Mercedes military bus at no charge. I am agree that those whom did not attend the boogie, should not be refund, with more emphasis for those who do not have a better understanding of unexpected situations that always arises in Third World countries like DR. This money went anyway to the international publicity, why complaning? I have never see any boogie with so many free services. People have to understand that Mr. Eugne Matos is just a volunteer organizer, not the owner of the Dominican Republic Air Force. If he received the order to cancel the boogie just 10 days before the event, and he worked it out to keep it going, this is a great job ! Finally the boogie was not canceled, and we had jumps in the Casa, not a lot of jumps, but I made at least 8 free jumps and stay at the base one full week for FREE, ALL INCLUSIVE, THIS IS INCLUDING DOMINICAN PRESIDENTE BEER !

I had a great time in the Dominican Republic Air Force boogie this Feb. 2003. Registration fees were fully refunded from Mr. Matos. We had free jumps, free accomodation, meals and a lot of city tours at no charge. I have heard of those who did not attend the boogie, mostly from USA. I hope the US air force will organize some kind of event like this, including civilians. Thanks Eugene !