It worked!

The photos were transferred to PC successfully, thanks to some key
bits of guidance you provided. Details:

Used BitPim Beta 1.0.7.20081215. I specified a phone that BitPim
supports (LG VX5400) that might be functionally similar to my VX5500.
However, BitPim then detected it as a generic "Other CDMA phone."

Tried the variousl BitPim functions, but none work (which for my
present purpose doesn't matter). BitPim could not get "phone info" or
access its phonebook, ringtones, calendar, etc., since my phone is not
supported

Fortunately, BitPim can be used to navigate the phone's directory
structure. A little exploration found the photos in the phone's
directory: \brew\mod\10888. It was necessary to copy them one at a
time, but that's no problem.

Most other directories can be viewed but not otherwise accessed. For
example, I could not copy or delete any ringtones, attempts at which
got the error message, "Access to the file/directory has been blocked
on this phone by the phone provider." Cute.

ADDED: Just tried specifying a different phone (VX5300), and all of a
sudden BitPim and my phone came to life. The BitPim functions now are
accessible, although they still get the "file/directory blocked" error
thanks to Verizon.

BitPim is a nice program. So is its price. It can do lots of useful
things for phones that it supports and whose carriers have not
crippled them.

The bluetooth tips have been noted for future use.

The guidance you folks provided is appreciated. THANK YOU!