The 101st Airborne Division Association marked Memorial Day with a splendid mix of commemoration and camaraderie in Washington, DC. Screaming Eagles of all generations, from WW II through Iraqi WRAMC patients from Walter Reed, came together in a series of ceremonies to honor those who have gone before, as well as those currently serving their country. On Saturday, May 27th, members traveled to the National Mall to lay a wreath at the World War II Memorial, honoring those who kept the Division’s original “Rendezvous With Destiny”.
Bob Lott, 401 GIR, Vinnie Vicari, Divarty, And Joe Bossi, Jr.
Then, for the first time, laid a wreath at the Korean War Memorial, in recognition of the 50 years the 187th Infantry Regiment, the only Division unit to serve in that conflict, has been an organic element of the Division.
President Redmond at the Korean War Memorial
Finally, a Division wreath was laid at the Vietnam Wall. At each Memorial, representatives gave a short presentation, followed by appropriate honors. A casual lunch followed the wreath laying ceremonies with a chance to hydrate with appropriate beverages after experiencing the un-seasonal temperatures that marked the weekend.
On Sunday, May 28th, a large group of veterans, active duty Screaming Eagles, their families, guests and friends joined in a magnificent ceremony at the 101st Memorial at Arlington Cemetery.
101st Airborne Division Memorial ceremony
In addition to the 26 wreaths being laid, honoring units and individuals, this year’s ceremony was highlighted by the addition of the 265th Radio Research Company to the Memorial joining with the units it so bravely supported in Vietnam. Inspirational comments were provided during the ceremony by Larry Redmond, Association President, and MG Jeffrey Schloesser, Assistant Division Commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom (I).
Honoring our Fallen
After the ceremony at the Division Memorial, many of the attendees gathered for a welcome luncheon buffet, where they were addressed by Ben Lam, who has the distinction of serving more combat time, seven years with the Screaming Eagles in Viet Nam, than any other veteran of the Division and President Redmond, who provided an update on the status of the Association.
On Monday, May 29th, Screaming Eagles took part in the National Memorial Day Parade. Thanks to the generous members of the F-Body Hideout Car Club (Camaros and Trans Ams), everybody was able to ride the two miles in 95 degree temperatures. Led by LTG H. W. O. Kinnard and Mrs. Kinnard, the Division was represented by veterans of every conflict from WW II to Afghanistan and Iraq.
It was inspirational to see the large, flag-waving crowds along the parade route in the bright sun and hot temperatures. The heartfelt admiration, cheers and salutes received by these Eagles along the parade route were reminiscent of the victory parades experienced by Super Bowl or World Series champions.
LTG Kinnard, Grand Marshall, and Mrs Kinnard
A wonderful crowd..
Screaming Eagles who participated will remember this day for a long time to come! Although the parade was organized by historical era, the Division contingent insisted on marching together. Now and then, always a “Band of Brothers”!
Screaming Eagles
moving out!
The National Capital Area Chapter
of the Association hosted a hospitality suite at the headquarters hotel.
Needless to say, a lot of catching up and war stories took place in that room!
For those who were there, the weekend was an incredible experience on many levels. For all of those who could not make it, we look forward to seeing you next year. You don’t want to miss this event.
Dick Schonberger
Additional Photos..
Assn. President Larry Redmond and Joe Bossi, Jr. laying a wreath at the WWII Memorial
Howard Danford, Charlie Gant, and Lt Gen (R) Charley Otstott (all 502nd Inf)
Doug Bonnot, Gene Sullivan, and MSGT Bruce George (just back from Iraq). All are 265th Radio Research Company folks..
Doug Bonnot, 265th Radio Research Company
Ben Lam receiving an award.
Robert Ponzo receiving an award.
All photos on this page are the property of Charles Gant. You should contact him for permission before using them, thanks!.......... L. Frazier 06/03/06