Navy Patrol Bombing Squadrons 102/14 Association |
The New Tale SpinsVolume VIII-IIJune 2004 |
Finally, there is a memorial in our nation’s
capitol, in your honor. This beautiful setting is dedicated to your
phenomenal efforts during the war. And, one of your own was on the
honored guests platform..... John Finn, the country’s oldest surviving
Medal of Honor recipient. Congratulation to all! (See
Information about your friends for further news)
A young man once said to Ken Thoman: “Without your generation winning that war, we would all be saluting the Emperor instead of the Stars and Stripes........... Thank you.” Time’s Marching On.... Like the relentless drill Sergeant, it keeps on moving, like it or not. Your reunion in Peoria is just ahead! Be sure to let Bob Kirk know what your plans are. He has had a busy, time consuming 2 years, planning and executing your reunion. He deserves all of our cooperation and applause for his great efforts. Thanks again Bob! See you in Peoria!!!! For those of you and, perhaps, your families who are interested in knowing more about individual military histories, there is a website available to all: members.aol.com/dadswar The Kaneohe Klippers will be having their reunion in San Diego Sept. 22-26. If you have not heard the details and are interested, contact: John Sachs at 5649 Lake Park Way, Unit 304, La Mesa, CA 91942-1935 Tel (619) 466-7339 Information about your friends: John Finn (VP-14) While preparing for the WWII dedication ceremonies, John fell. He was taken to Walter Reed for x-rays. He insisted on going to the dedication so was taken there, even though he was experiencing pain. On the stage with all the dignitaries, the temperature and humidity were very high. John fainted. Pres. Clinton helped him up. John was returned to Walter Reed where they diagnosed a broken hip and pelvis. He has returned to CA, where he is in rehab at the California Veteran’s Home, 718 E Maples Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911 for the time being..... but is still determined to return to his ranch. Bob Davis (VPB Stillman) sends word that Aurelia is doing well. There is not much improvement in her mobility, but, they are able to get her out for short visits. (See new add.) Neil Elliott (VB/VPB Cr 9) and Roy Phillips (VPB) each send word that health precludes reunion attendance. (See new add.) Bill Alcorn (VPB Cr2) sends word that they will not be able to attend Peoria because wife Pat will have a double knee replacement and will be immobile for a period of time. We’ll miss them....as we will all those who can not be with us. As of the writing of this note, Hal Warnimont (VPB-Cr9) is still hoping to join us. Son Gary will be with him. Gus Martin (VPB Cr1) is determined, accompanied by family to help him. We are so proud of our members and their families who fight all odds to keep on doing. Dick Halvorsen suffered a fall in December, badly injuring his left arm. After extended therapy, surgery is contemplated. This, along with other health problems, will prevent he and Dot from attending Peoria, but, they are looking forward to 2006! (See new add.) New addresses plus email changes: Bill
Andrews (VPB Cr 8) Neal
Elliott (VB/VPB
Cr 9) Bob Davis: Dick Halvorsen (VPB Cr9) Leslie James Cole (VPB Repl Stewart) Those on the sick or treatment list: Vern Schmidt: Due to chemotherapy and other illnesses, won’t be able to attend our Peoria reunion. He sends his regrets and best wishes to all. Filmore (Bud) Clough (VPB Cr 17): has lost his eyesight and is suffering Chronic Obstruction Pulmonary Disease. Phil Knights (VP/VB/VPB Cr 14): is suffering
from extensive loss of memory but writes “I hope
I keep all of you in mind to remember” Frank Burton (VP/VB/VPB Burton): Dorothy writes that Frank died 2/21/2004. Norm Wiltsey (VPB Cr 11): Norm died 4/21/2004. Lyle Jackson (VP-14): Lyle died 4/12/2004 Richard (Dick) Lockard (VPB Cr 7): Dick succumbed to lung cancer on 4/17/2004. Robert Nadeau (VP/VPB Nadeau): Bob died 1/ 23/04. He was buried in Miami next to Irene who died in ‘97. AA (Bruce) Pall (VPB Repl Cr 6) succumbed to cancer June 11, 2004. Our deepest sympathies go to all the loved-ones of those lost. Each one is a loss to all of us too. Lifelong friendships are as special as family. Our Auxiliary: Vi McCord, wife of Dick, passed away 3/18/2004 after a long battle with cancer. Martha Washburn, will not be able to attend Peoria. She has Alzeimers and is now living in a facility for special care. We will miss this great lady’s smile and all the others who can no longer attend for one reason or another. It is very important that we continue to hear from you or your family even if it is not a reunion year. Your friends ask about you, our records need to be kept timely, and we just plain want to hear about you. Please
continue to keep us informed:
Lifelong friendships - what would life be without them.........
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