Jacksonville 2022

The ‘22 reunion was held 25-28 August in Jacksonville. Ths was the first reunion since the COVID-19 pandemic, and was commemorated with special "Korona Killer" commemorative coins. However, COVID wasn't quite finished with us yet; because of a rise in diagnosed cases in Duval County, the major naval installations returned to an elevated health-security status which caused our squadron visit, as well as a Mayport ship visit, to be cancelled. As disappointing as this might appear at first glance, it turned out to be a net benefit, as to a much greater extent than previous reunions, old and new shipmates took advantage of the Doubletree Inn's hospitality to get reacquainted, meet new shipmates, and swap sea stories - one or two of which might even have been true. The modest ready room served as a focal point for groups and individuals to gather and move to one of three meeting rooms to socialize and reminisce. In the larger of these, tables were laid out with archival memorabilia and, as we so often do, many members browsed through old, but not forgotten, cruise books, flight schedules, photograph albums and official papers.

One social event in which the show literally did go on was a trip to the Alhambra Theater, where the show was (appropriately enough) "Grumpy Old Men." It was greatly enjoyed by the nearly 50 people who attended.

Of particular interest were some excellent videos produced by our own Bill Hobgood, showing VP-45 operations and squadron life in the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. These were so well received that they were shown multiple times. And a mere back issue which kept incoming Association president Jack Keane sidelined didn't stop him from delivering a fascinating presentation on VP operations in Vietnam.

Saturday morning the business meeting convened with about 60 Pelicans attending. President Doug Mitchell presided in his final act of office before handing the bridge and the conn to Jack Keane; Pooh Bear departs the office with the grateful appreciation of the entire Association for his years of hard work helping to make the group what it is today. Nominations and voting were unanimous for the slate of Officers. New President Keane delivered an important presentation on the urgent need to grow our membership, especially from the 1990 and 2000 classes. Nominations were taken for candidate sites for the next reunion, ranging from midwest to south central and west coast locations. The location for the next reunion will be selected by Association vote.    

The reception and banquet Saturday evening at the Doubletree were exceptional, and very well attended. The CO and XO of the squadron were present, as well as a color guard made up of some of the outstanding young enlisted men and women who make up the best squadron in patrol aviation. The keynote address was given by the skipper himself.

All in all, it was a superb reunion event, and we eagerly await the next one - don't miss it!

Scott Kelly (WebMaster)