Upon Arrival on Thursday, March 20 The first order of business was to register then visit the hospitality suite and ship's store

After that it was off to greet old shipmates and companions from so many YEARS ago !!

The many fine resturants in the area were super places to do a little reminiscencing

But, of course, the "serious war stories" were told during the after dinner refreshments

Next day there was an excursion to view the Norfolk harbor ... and enjoy conversation over an excellent meal.

Friday night's reception provided a look at the museum ... a forum for locating shipmates .... AND OH YEAH .... "another opportunity" to chow down and pontificate: "Remember the time when ..."

Rumbling around the deck of the USS Wisconsin (BB-64) was best done in broad daylight !! Hmmm ... front loading those 16 inch mortar rounds musta been fun !!

Meanwhile ... the association brass were doing their formal and informal "whatevers"

The business meeting on Saturday was well attended, interesting, and "spirited"

It was FANTASTIC to not only HEAR but FEEL the deep throb of those V-12 Diesels again! It has been thirty plus years, but the emotions are still just as compelling as ever: Cast off, "Boats!" Let's get this show on the road!

The formal banquet on Saturday night was arranged with tables by Coastal Division Excellent food, fine company, and with CinCLantFlt and VA Affairs Secretary as speakers Followed by many presentations of awards to deserving SBSA members

! Ye Gads ! Where did the time and the lack of sleep go ? It's Over With See Ya at the Next Reunions St. Louis in the Year 2005 And San Diego in the Year 2007

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