On Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 the Radarmen started arriving at the Landmark Hotel in Metairie, La. Thursday the Hospitality Room was opened and a cheese tray, coffee, cokes, snacks and beer were provided. The serious consuming of beer commenced and by Friday, all 15 attendees had arrived. The Hospitality Room had a Memorial display in honor of Norman Zehms and Sam Richey, who passed away in 2000. Friday and Saturday was used for tours, with those not on tour, gathering in the Hospitality Room to tell Sea Stories. As with the Branson Reunion a lot of Tall Stories were told and a lot of memories resurrected. On Saturday Morning a business meeting was held with the following results. The 2003 Reunion will be held in San Diego, California during the July 15 - Aug. 15, 2003 time period, providing that the ship is in San Diego and the CIC Display is ready for visitors. In the event that this hasn't happen by Aug. 2002, to allow for planning, the reunion will be moved to Virginia Beach, Virginia and San Diego will be considered for the 2005 reunion. It was also decided to change the Articles of Conferation/bylaws to include Radarmen/Operation Specialist from all years, eligible for membership in the group. The feeling was that we all had something to contribute to the group and a lot in common. It would give us more leverage as a group when dealing with hotels,etc. Also at the meeting Dave Payson was presented the "USS Midway Pultizer" for his "Boot2" Sea Story. This consisted of a plaque denoting his ability to tell tall stories and a "Screaming Eagle" engraved statue. About half of the attendees left for home Sunday morning and the balance on Monday. A good time was had by all. If everyone that took pictures would send me a copy it would be greatly appreciated. I will make sure they get posted on the WEB and archived in our Photo Album to be displayed at the next reunion.

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