USS SPROSTON (DD/DDE-577)
REUNION GROUP REPORT
Greetings to all of our Sproston Shipmates, family members and friends. It's time again to start making plans to attend the 2003 Sproston Reunion. It is not anticipated that world events will have an impact on Sproston Reunion attendance. We have spoken to other Reunion Groups and they are also moving forward with reunion plans. Our Reunion in 2001 in Nashville started just a week after 9-11 and we had one of the largest turnouts ever. We will not let terrorists and two-bit dictators interfere with a Sproston Reunion. September will be here before you know it. We are anticipating another good turnout. We strongly encourage you to get your reservations in early. It really helps in our planning when we receive your reservation early.
Our Reunion Chairman, Joe O'Neill has put together an outstanding program of activities for the Sproston Niagara Falls Reunion. We have moved the Reunion site from Buffalo to Niagara Falls. We were able to obtain a better deal at a location closer to the Falls. Enclosed are a Registration form and a Reunion Preview which outlines all of the activities. The prices are very reasonable. Again, we will have the opportunity to visit a beautiful part of the Country. Our hotel headquarters is the Days Inn Riverview at the Falls which is a very nice facility. One of the Reunion highlights will the annual Memorial Service aboard the USS Sullivans.
This year represents the Sixtieth anniversary of the commissioning of the USS Sproston DD577. We are planning some special events to celebrate that anniversary. Our ship has a proud history of being in commission for 25 years and serving our Country in three Wars.
During that period approximately 3000 officers and men proudly served on board. Each reunion is a unique experience. This year will be special as we recognize the proud crew that put the ship in commission on May 19, 1943.
Once again, we will be posting the names of Reunion Registrants on our website. Also, we will be posting updated general information regarding the reunion. Our webmaster, Al Fitz, updates the site regularly as new pictures and other information is received. Remember to visit.
CHANGES OF ADDRESS
Thanks to all of you who have notified us when you changed your mailing address. However, following the January mailing, 30 newsletters were returned due to address changes. The Post Office charges 70 cents for each return. Additionally, we have to receive the return and reimburse the postman. PLEASE let us know when you move. A phone call, an email or postcard would be appreciated.
TAPS
We have received word that the following shipmates have passed away:
Robert Webster LTjg
George Gow FN1
Samuel Siegel RDM2
James York ET3
Donald Towsend MM2
Thomas Franklin BM1
William Horne SH2
May they rest in Peace. Our condolences to family members.
Remember....Send in your Registration Early. Thank-you, we appreciate your assistance.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Jim Marlatt, President
Al Fitz, Secretary/Webmaster
Elmer Everidge, Treasurer