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Update
cont'd...
As you may remember, our original aim was to bring them over here to
our reunion this year. They cannot afford that trip, nor can we afford to pay
their way here. So we have been trying for sponsors to offset the expense. We
were not able to bring that to fruition this year but have not given up on
this notion. Many initiatives were sent out and who knows when we may get
results. We may still have that grand reunion but in the meantime we have had
sort of a virtual reunion through the pictures and stories of the after-war
experiences of both the children and the squadron members (by sharing the
scrapbook).
I would like anyone who would like their story included in the
scrapbook, to write to me and if possible include a picture. Many books have
been written about various war-time experiences of individuals and combat
groups. But I think it really important to document the very interesting life
experiences of you all after
the war. This is a perspective that today's children would really learn
from. It is one thing to tell the story of an outfit and the brave things they
did at war, and quite another to follow all the individuals through their
careers and family lives after.
I am sure that Joe Ritz Jr. would be happy to include these stories on
the squadron web site as well. I plan on bringing the scrapbook to the reunion
every year. It is so interesting to me to look at the pictures that the
various members bring each year. They lead to great conversations. You folks
all have interesting stories to tell. And now that other family members are
coming to the reunions, they can learn a lot from you. I know that I have.
In our squadron and group, we have so many great stories. You folks are
walking history lessons. I know that you have experienced a lack of interest
from some over the years - but you may have noticed that the new generation
is asking a lot of questions. They want to know how you were able to survive
the depression, go off to war, and come home to build a new life and family.
Times are not easy for kids today either - and they want to learn from you.
I thank you all for taking Marie and me in as part of the family. You are a
great group of human beings.
I look forward to talking with all of you at the reunions or via mail
through the year. I am sure it will be another exciting reunion in 2005.
Thanks again for your help!
Warmest
regards,
Dennis
Hayman |