June was a busy month for Alpha vets. The first weekend of June my blog partner Barry Gregorich headed up a return trip to Fort Campbell Kentucky for his group of vets that served from late 1970 on up to the end in early 1972. Close to 40 attended and a good time was had by all once again. Congrats to Barry and his cohorts for a job well done. I expect to see some great pics showing up at the website soon so keep an eye out for them.
Just last weekend (June 20-22) Val Zappert's "Rat Pack" had another gathering in Texas. These vets mostly served from late 69 'til well into 70 during which Val was Alpha company's CO. Val is kind of new on the scene but after attending the Branson reunion in 06 he got fired up. He's been locating his fellow soldiers and organizing reunions about twice a year. Val is also behind the creation of a new Alpha company website. Ass Kicking Alpha be sure to check it out. A permanent link to the site has been added to the namvet links page.
It is really cool to see the enthusiasm that Barry and Val and all the vets involved have been displaying in recent years.
Something a bit older (I first attended in 94) is on tap August 14-20 and that's "Week Of The Eagles" at Fort Campbell. General John Cushman (ret) is calling for another 2nd Brigade reunion during the event. As Colonel "Jack" Cushman he commanded the brigade before and after thier arrival in Nam mid december '67. All members of the original brigade and those who joined the unit as replacements in '68 are strongly urged to attend. Since I fall into the replacement category this reunion is on my wish list. I've heard that a Division "Welcome Home" to Namvets is on the agenda and please take note that "Week Of The Eagles" is open to the public with an excellent airshow over the weekend. I will post hotel info separate.
I'd also like to mention the "Kokomo" reunion which is always the third weekend of September (this year 18-20). The oldest and largest all services namvet reunion in the country. This is a giant party that over 40,000 will attend. Live entertainment, food, drink and military vendors plus camping, grilling and drinking. Smoke'em if you got'em. Alpha company has five connecting 20'x40' camping lots on site as our basecamp. Come join us for some good times.
For 2nd bde schedule and Hotel info click on "COMMENTS" below vvvv.
Joynt
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
To: Alpha Company Comrades
ReplyDeleteFrom: Don Shive
Subject: 2d Brigade/101st Reunion, August 14-17, 2009, Week of the Eagle, Fort Campbell
1. Just received on June 3rd notification from General Cushman. It came late this year so I realize the short notice could be a problem. I am unable to attend as Rachel and I will be in Southern California. I'm sure it will be a great time with Week of the Eagle activities and the Division Ceremony for Vietnam Vets.
2. Here is the schedule and relevant information.
Friday, August 14th - Sign in at hotel; 1500-2300, Hospitality open
Saturday, August 15th
1000-1300 Visit 2d Brigade/101st, Lunch in mess hall
1000-1800 Campbell Army Air Field, Static Displays
1500-2100 Hospitality room open, Barbeque
Sunday, August 16th
Time TBA Div "Welcome Ceremony" for VN Vets
1000-1800 Campbell Army Air Field, Static Displays
Kiddie Carnival & Health Fair
1400-1700 Campbell Army Air Field, Aerial Demonstration
1500-1800 Hospitality room open, Banquet
Monday, August 17th: Reunion Guests Depart
Register at Holiday Inn Express, 270-439-0022 at 2n Bde rate.
Jim Hallums, 931-572-9527, hallumsfarm@charter.net
John Cushman, 202-541-0435, jackCushSr@aol.com
3. Please let Jim Hallums know if you plan to attend as he is managing the effort. I'd like to know also so I can report to General Cushman. Call or email me if you want to discuss.
4. On another matter--Bob McGowan had triple by-pass surgery on 5 June. He is recovering and doing well.
Sincerely,
Don Shive
-------------------------------------------
also... this link was sent to me by Alpha vet John Conroy.
Here is the official Army MWR website for WOTE.
http://www.fortcampbellmwr.com/woe/
thanks to both for the info,
Gary
This update was just passed on to me by Dave Reinheimer B 2/501.
ReplyDeleteVietnam Veterans
Welcome Home Ceremony
Fort Campbell, Kentucky
1400H 16 August 2009
MG Jeffrey J Schloesser, CG 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) has announced a Welcome Home Ceremony for Vietnam Veterans during the Week of the Eagle at Fort Campbell Kentucky on Sunday 16 August 2009.
Vietnam Veterans from ALL units, branches and services are invited to participate in this very special opportunity. Vietnam Veterans will have the rare privilege of receiving the same welcome home that every member of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) receives when they return from the war on terrorism.
To participate, everyone is to enter Fort Campbell, KY at Gate 7 on Sunday 16 August 2009 and assemble in casual patriotic attire no later than 1400H CST (2:00 PM) at the Freedom Fighter Gymnasium near the 4th BCT (506th Currahee) headquarters.
Buses at the Freedom Fighter Gymnasium will transport everyone to and from Hangar 3. At Hangar 3, family and friends will assemble inside while the Vietnam Veterans form and “dress right dress” outside the hangar.
The grand moment will be when the hangar doors open to the sound of patriotic music, banners, cheers and tears. The Vietnam Veterans will be greeted by our new Commanding General, MG John F Campbell (former Commander 1st Bde 82nd Abn Div), families, friends and other patriots. What a memorable moment! I am a veteran of the Vietnam War and it touches me deeply to know that our Commanding General has made this special effort to include the Vietnam Veteran in the same honors given to our active duty Soldiers.
After the Hangar 3 ceremony, buses will return everyone to the Freedom Fighter Gymnasium (air-conditioned) and a sit down free Bar-B-Q meal for the Vietnam Veteran and one guest. The Golden Rule Smokehouse Restaurant is donating the meals.
To confirm (1) how many will attend the ceremony (2) to reserve a meal for yourself and one guest, (3) your branch of service and (4) handicap needs, please call the Hopkinsville-Christian County Chamber of Commerce at (270) 885-9096 or email akrohn@hopkinsvillechamber.com NLT 9 August 2009. Also, please show your appreciation to the Golden Rule Smokehouse Restaurant (http://www.goldenrulebbq.com/stores.php) for their generosity to the Vietnam Veterans. The website listing the Week of the Eagle activities is www.fortcampbellmwr.com/woe/.
While at the WOE, be sure to visit the 101st Airborne Division Association office at 32 Screaming Eagle Blvd near Gate 4
So, plan your trip, confirm your attendance, come to Fort Campbell, visit the 101st Airborne Division Association office and celebrate the Week of the Eagle with other veterans and members of our active duty Screaming Eagle family.
Joe R Alexander, President
101st Airborne Division Association
Mary Brenner
Membership Administrator
101st Airborne Division Association
PO Box 929
Fort Campbell, KY 42223
(931) 431-0199 ext 35
Fax (931) 431-0195
assocmemberinfo@comcast.net