| The 100th Bomb Group Foundation met in Palm Springs for a
mini-reunion, with many staying at the Ramada Inn. Nancy
Putnam did a fine job in organizing the recreation room as an
informal get-together site, well assisted by Carol Batley. The
Palm Springs Mini-Reunion on January 10th began with a greeting at
the museum entrance by "General Patton", well played by Dom Lococo.
As the only POW there, I thanked him for liberation of the POWs from
Moosburg on April 29, 1945.
There was a nice display of 100th articles includes jackets,
books, plaques and other memorabilia. The hot dog stand did a
rousing business, and helicopter rides were available for a small
fee. A P-38 was to be flown, but high winds at its home base
kept it grounded. In Palm Springs, however, the weather was
beautiful, clear and 75 degrees.
There were approximately 200 people present including 10 veterans
of the 100th - Don Bradley, Ralph Bradley, Joe Bussino, Bill Cully,
Charles Gutekunst, Leon Schwartz, Keith Sprague, Bob Shoens, Hong
Kong Wilson and Bob Wolff. Ron and Carol Batley from Thorpe
Abbotts Museum of the 100th were there as were wives and families of
the vets and many friends of the 100th. All the chairs were
occupied and many visitors were standing.
The program began with a welcome by Palm Springs Air Museum
docent, Richard Gosser who helped organize the program. A
salute to the Flag and a Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Mike Faley was introduced as Group Historian and gave an
interesting talk on our history. Keith Sprague and Bob Shoens
addressed the crowd and gave us an insight into their experiences.
Charles 'Hong Kong' Wilson gave an illuminating review of this early
days.
David Tallichet left a lasting legacy for our Group when he named
his restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio The Hundredth Bomb Group
Restaurant. Dave's wife Carol and his son John were awarded
plaques commemorating his generosity.
A talk by Leon Schwartz detailing some of his wartime experience
and Ron Batley discussing the Thorpe Abbotts Museum closed our
program. Afterwards some of the veterans were asked questions
by members of the audience.
The dinner that evening at Billy Reed's was attended by 64
members of the group including family and friends. In closing
this successful mini-reunion, plans are underway to do this again in
February, 2010. At that time, a permanent 100th Bomb Group
exhibit will be installed at the Palm Springs Air Museum, with many
thanks to Mike Faley for his efforts in our behalf.
--Bob Wolff
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