Virginia Beach 1996

As those who attended the reunion in Virginia Beach well remember, the latest Association reunion was a resounding success. There were members from 38 states, plank owners from both the PBY and PBM squadrons, and eight former Commanding Officers in attendance. The hotel, Virginia Beach Resort and Convention Center, was by far the most cooperative host we have ever had, provided exceptional service and the rooms were outstanding. The weather was perfect (it only rained on Saturday and didn’t affect the Spirit of Norfolk cruise).

All events went as scheduled and all hands were well advised of times and places well in advance. The tour of Naval Station Norfolk had to be scrubbed when a USMC VLT (Very Large Truck) tried to assume the same space as the tail end of one of the trolleys used to transport our members on the tour, which included visiting USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). The trolley driver was cited for a traffic violation.

The Ready Room was large and spacious, and provided enough room for all who paused for a chat or refreshment. In the RR, John Pavlick set up shop, displayed and sold many articles from the squadron that were arranged for and provided by Will Moore from Jacksonville. By adding a small surcharge, the Association earned $266. In addition to the sales, John arranged for a 50/50 raffle (50% for prizes - 50% for the Assn.) and earned another $87 for the Treasury.

Both distinguished guests invited to speak at the banquet did so, and were extremely well received by the members. Admiral Semko and his wife, Dot, and Commander Deutsch and his wife, Kay, expressed their delight at being invited. Both officers made excellent presentations, which arc included below for all to read, and stayed long after the event to answer questions and socialize with members in the Ready Room.

The Reunion Committee members were: Jack and Joyce Barry; Frank and Anne Agnew; Bill and Sally Eaton; Joe and Ruthe Stein; and Bill Stevens. These, and several other, hardworking folks really did a tremendous job which was truly appreciated by all who attended the reunion. BRAVO ZULU!