Meredyth’s Membership Musings:The Reunion

By Meredyth Dinniman

I was anxious when I realized the time was arriving for the 390th Memorial Museum’s Fifth Annual Reunion. Mostly, I was very excited about getting the opportunity to meet so many of our members: veterans, whom I respect and admire so deeply, and their proud spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends. I was also excited about meeting our board members and many of their spouses. The board members put so much effort into running the Foundation. I was in awe of Mary Truitt and her energy with the reunion.

Welcome & Registration Meredyth Dinniman & Karen Drain

It seems like the time from receiving our first registration to the time of the actual reunion was lightening fast. Soon it was time to set up shop in the lobby of the Clarion and wait for the participants to arrive. We had many weary travelers come in to register, but all were pleased to be here. We had participants from near and far, as close as Tucson itself and as far away as England. It was a wonderful experience to piece together names and faces.

Friday our participants went on their tours, and Saturday they were invited to the museum. I only heard positive feedback about the museum. Saturday culminated in a banquet that was busy and vibrant. Our new Board President, Don Brooks, presented a very moving showcase about his retrieval of a B-17 out of a lake in Labrador. Viewing the old war footage reinforced the fact that true heroes surrounded me at this banquet. How can a person like me thank these men for all they did? The museum, membership, this Bulletin, and reunions help to keep these memories alive. I was overjoyed to see so many members participate in the reunion this year and hope that next year’s reunion is even bigger and better!

I would like to thank Mrs. Karen Drain, wife of Board Vice President Frank Drain, for all of her help during the reunion. She was able to work very hard and maintain a fabulous sense of humor at the same time. Thanks, Karen!

Andy’s Musings: The Volunteers

By Andy Anzanos

This last reunion again brought forth a time of reflection. As I looked around and saw so many people that give their time and contributions to our museum, I know the reason why we are so impressively unique.

Our Museum volunteers many of which travel great distances are essential.

Our busy Board members travel far distances and contribute all of their effort.

Our executive director travels a very long distance every day.

Our members are all kind and supportive.

Our past president, Mary Truitt, and Jim have volunteered to successfully run all the past reunions.

Our B-17 refurbisher, Bill Frostick, once again made his annual trip to touch up his baby.

Our Angel, Dorothy Moller, has seen that we didn’t sink.

We are blessed