The World War 2 Guys were given the privilege of taking part in Christ Community Church's "America" celebration the evening of Sunday, June 28.  We had great unit participation for the event with Will honoring the US Army Air Corps, Matt the 8th Infantry Division, Bob and Luke the 101st Airborne Division, Eli the 2nd Infantry Division, Cody the US Army Medics, Jeff the US Navy, and Eric the US Marine Corps.  Turnout for the event was impressive with hundreds of visitors talking with us about our World War II themed display.  The night kicked-off with a patriotic concert honoring our nation's veterans both past and present, followed by an ice cream social and an awesome fireworks display.  The highlight of the night was when Technical Sergeant Paul Andreas stopped by our tables.  A veteran of the 28th Infantry Division and the Battle of the Hurtgen Forest, Paul was a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient who was captured by the Germans as a POW.  He's quite a guy and it was great to have him talk with us for a few minutes.  This was a great summertime event and one we'll hopefully be back for next year!

The World War 2 Guys were invited to be a part of the 2nd Infantry Division Association's 93rd National Reunion which took place at Omaha's Downtown DoubleTree Hotel from September 16-20.  Members of our group dressed in military uniforms depicting several eras of the 2nd Infantry Division's proud history.  We were also invited to set up display tables to exhibit uniforms, field equipment, weapons, personal effects, insignia, photographs, and printed materials of the division from World War I up through the 1970's.  Dave, Will, Jeff, Matt, Eric, Eli and Darrell were all able to attend the event on Friday which quickly turned into one of the most memorable and rewarding days in our unit's history.  We spent time throughout the day talking with 2nd Division veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam-era vets who patrolled the dangerous Korean DMZ.  We were honored to eat lunch with two veterans who shared stories with us as we ate.  Members of our unit were also invited to attend the division's annual Memorial service where the remember all of their comrades who have passed over the course of the past year.  It was an unbelievable experience and one that none of us will ever forget.  The National Reunion is being held in San Antonio, Texas in 2015... it's a long way from Omaha, but it would be worth the trip to spend some more time with these guys!!!