The 2007 VP-4 Reunion went exceptionally well. The hospitality room opened Thursday afternoon and was a favorite gathering place for everyone to gather and renew past friendships. It was nice to see several first time attendees sharing in the camaraderie. WL Long and Dottie Sullivan were surprise attendees and brought smiles to many faces. A HUGH THANKS to Gloria and Steve Andruszkewicz assisted by Kitty Broadwell, for setting up and maintaining the room.
Friday evening the shipmates, and in some cases their mates, were able to tour the Foxtrot submarine at the Maritime Museum. I believe all will agree that living on this elusive foe for extended cruises took a hearty soul. The interior did not approach the craftsmanship of U. S. submarines of that era.
Saturday saw the first rain that San Diego had seen in months, much to the chagrin of the golfers. It dampened their cloths but not their spirits. Winning teams included Vince Malinowski, Dale Kaser, Ted Rogers, Bill Broadwell and Ben Greene, Glen Hill, John McCarthy, Arlene McCarthy. Longest drive went to Ben Greene and John Humfleet won closest to the pin. Tours of the USS Midway, the harbor cruise, the city and surrounding area were enjoyed by many in spite of the rain.
That evening the DJ at the banquet had us all up on our feet dancing and having a good time, as evidenced by the number of people staying for the last dance. Special recognition to Thomas P “Fleener” Flanigan for leading us all in that old time favorite “We are the VP-4 Drinking Team”.
The hotel services were simply outstanding. They went out of their way to meet our every need. Consequently, all events went very well.
The reunion had about 145-150 attendees at the various events. The list of attendees is posted with the wrap-up. If you didn’t show up you were missed. We need to make a strong effort to find more VP-4 Vets, especially from the 80s and 90s. If you have a line on any one, every bit of information will help. We have a few people willing to spend the time to do internet searches. Send information both Max Koontz, maxakoontz@alltel.net and Steve Andruszkewicz vp4reunion2005@aol.com.
During the Board of Directors and All-Hands meetings several actions were approved.
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Members agreed to change the name of the association to the VP-4 Veterans Association. -
The association should explore posting the association roster on the web site with <span style="text-decoration: underline;">pass word access</span>. -
Bruce Worthington will explore the possibility of using a "Reunion Planner" and report to the Board of Directors. -
There will be no set dress code for the reunions. Announcements for each reunion will detail local dress for the area of the reunion. -
The database will be passed to Steve Andruszkewicz as soon as Mike and Virginia Richardson are ready to do so. MANY THANKS TO MIKE & VIRGINIA FOR CONTRIBUTING THEIR TIME, TREASURE & TALENT TO THE ASSOCIATION. -
Six sites were selected for future reunions, two East coast, two Mid-West, two West coast: Pensacola, Jacksonville, Fort Worth, Chicago, Seattle, and Reno. -
The next reunion will be held in Fort Worth, Texas. Details will be coming as developed. Bill Broadwell will be available to share his recent experience with Gary. -
Gary (& Joy) Davis, 1962 Weatherford, Texas is our new Chairman for 2007-2009. Tom Rider has agreed to work as his assistant. If you're anywhere near Gary & Joy and would be willing to step up and help out with 2009, I am sure they would greatly appreciate it. One position that comes to mind is Hospitality Room Chairman. If you're up to it, contact Steve Andruszkewicz <a href="mailto:vp4reunion2005@aol.com">vp4reunion2005@aol.com</a> and he'll fill you in on his past experiences.
After serving many years as the Treasurer of the VP-4 Association, Barry Robinson has retired from that position and has been succeeded by Sid Spector who will be assisted by Bill Broadwell. Barry handled this position with dignity and efficiency. We all owe him a debt of gratitude and a heartfelt WELL DONE!”