2019 Reunion - Philiadelphia (Bensalem), PA hosted by david a. Christian & Diane Reitz
Attendees:
Gerald & Cheryl Allday |
Greg & Nancy Bennett |
Bob & Sharel Busby |
John & Patty Candiloro |
Greg Catherwood (deceased 9/9/2017) Represented by wife Ramona Catherwood Friend Lea Rae Capps |
David & Peggy Christian Daughters Maureen, Collen, Kasey Grand Children Jay, Elliot, Christopher, Brenna, Friend Bryan Christain's Butchers Tommy Milan & Jesse Lascano and Daughter Brenda Friend Phillip & Judy Bryant Son John & Girl Fired Kinga |
Ron & Gaitha Crews Daughter Christie Husband Mark Lollar Daughter Julie |
Jerry Davis |
John & Debby Douglas Daughter Andi Hemphill Grand Daughter Libbie Hemphill Service Dog Goldie |
David L. Flores |
Don Hilderbrandt |
Dave Hill Son Ian Hill |
Gary & Wendy Hund |
Vaughn Isaacs Daughter Cheyenne Isaacs Friend Kitty Salmon Friend Mary Ann Babinger |
Gary W. Kellogg Son - Kris Kellogg |
Bob McGath (deceased 1/7/2019) Represented by wife Judi McGath Son Shane McGath Grand Son Andrew "Git-Git Legs" McGath |
Tom McMahon |
James & Andrea Moss Daughter Shondrika Grand Children Kyrie & Ari |
Jim & Clara Savage |
Harry & Shyron Suire Daughter Colette Lager Grand Son Cade McDaniel |
Danny & Brenda Wiggins |
Mike & Nancy Wise Service Dog Roxie |
Your name should be here! |
Your name should be here! |
WOW! What a week.
What a great time we had in Bensalem, PA an area filled with historical significance and great American history to boot. After all it was in this area that our great country began those many years ago and she has flourished for over 240 years. God has blessed this great nation and it is our hope that He continues to do so.
Several of us arrived early on the scene and were greeted by friendly folks. The Holiday Inn Bensalem-Philadelphia was our landing zone and boy was it nice (Pictured above). The food was great, and the accommodation were outstanding. Our Brother David A. Christian and his assistant Diane Rietz did an excellent job. We cannot thank them enough for the incredible reunion that they hosted for us. We were created like royalty. We felt loved, respected and honored the entire time we were there and you had better believe it was appreciated and gave us a great feeling and sense of pride. What a week!
On one of our excursions David took the guys on a trip to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers of the Revolutionary War at Washington Crossing Historic Park. It was quite a sight to behold. We got to visit and honor those who first died for the freedoms we take for granted. From the parking area at the Thompson-Neely House, it’s a short walk across the Delaware Canal to the memorial cemetery where an unknown number of Continental soldiers who died during the December 1776 encampment in Bucks County are buried.
Several of us arrived early on the scene and were greeted by friendly folks. The Holiday Inn Bensalem-Philadelphia was our landing zone and boy was it nice (Pictured above). The food was great, and the accommodation were outstanding. Our Brother David A. Christian and his assistant Diane Rietz did an excellent job. We cannot thank them enough for the incredible reunion that they hosted for us. We were created like royalty. We felt loved, respected and honored the entire time we were there and you had better believe it was appreciated and gave us a great feeling and sense of pride. What a week!
On one of our excursions David took the guys on a trip to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers of the Revolutionary War at Washington Crossing Historic Park. It was quite a sight to behold. We got to visit and honor those who first died for the freedoms we take for granted. From the parking area at the Thompson-Neely House, it’s a short walk across the Delaware Canal to the memorial cemetery where an unknown number of Continental soldiers who died during the December 1776 encampment in Bucks County are buried.
Although no Americans were killed during the Crossing and the First Battle of Trenton, others did succumb to exposure, disease or previous injuries. James Moore, a 24-year-old artillery captain from Alexander Hamilton’s New York company of artillery, is the only veteran buried in this plot whose identity is known. His original marker, since replaced, was inscribed, “To the Memory of Cap. James Moore of the New York Artillery, Son of Benjamin & Cornelia Moore of New York. He died December the 25th A.D. 1776 Aged 24 Years & Eight Months.”
Washington Crossing Historic Park is a must see in my opinion. I will be forever grateful for this opportunity. The above information was gleaned from the parks web site as was the following paragraphs'
A little history, In the winter of 1776, General George Washington and his ragged army had experienced only defeat and despair. The War for Independence was going badly, with failure following failure. In the preceding months, Washington’s campaign in New York had not gone well; the Battle of Long Island ended in a loss when the British troops managed to out-maneuver the Continental Army. A series of defeats settled around Washington as he was forced to retreat across New Jersey to Pennsylvania on December 7 and 8.
As the harsh Pennsylvania winter set in, the morale of the American troops was at an all-time low. The soldiers were forced to deal with a lack of both food and warm clothing, while Washington watched his army shrink due to desertions and expiring enlistments. Now, more than ever, a victory was desperately needed.
General Washington hatched a daring plan to cross the Delaware River under the cover of darkness, march to Trenton and attack the Hessian outposts in and around Trenton. The boats to be used for the crossing were gathered earlier in the month in compliance with Washington’s orders, primarily as a defensive measure. Various types of boats were collected; most notable were the large, heavy Durham boats used to carry pig iron down the Delaware.
A little history, In the winter of 1776, General George Washington and his ragged army had experienced only defeat and despair. The War for Independence was going badly, with failure following failure. In the preceding months, Washington’s campaign in New York had not gone well; the Battle of Long Island ended in a loss when the British troops managed to out-maneuver the Continental Army. A series of defeats settled around Washington as he was forced to retreat across New Jersey to Pennsylvania on December 7 and 8.
As the harsh Pennsylvania winter set in, the morale of the American troops was at an all-time low. The soldiers were forced to deal with a lack of both food and warm clothing, while Washington watched his army shrink due to desertions and expiring enlistments. Now, more than ever, a victory was desperately needed.
General Washington hatched a daring plan to cross the Delaware River under the cover of darkness, march to Trenton and attack the Hessian outposts in and around Trenton. The boats to be used for the crossing were gathered earlier in the month in compliance with Washington’s orders, primarily as a defensive measure. Various types of boats were collected; most notable were the large, heavy Durham boats used to carry pig iron down the Delaware.
is a must see in my opinion. I will be forever grateful for this opportunity. The above information was gleaned from the parks web site as was the following paragraphs'
A little history, In the winter of 1776, General George Washington and his ragged army had experienced only defeat and despair. The War for Independence was going badly, with failure following failure. In the preceding months, Washington’s campaign in New York had not gone well; the Battle of Long Island ended in a loss when the British troops managed to out-maneuver the Continental Army. A series of defeats settled around Washington as he was forced to retreat across New Jersey to Pennsylvania on December 7 and 8.
As the harsh Pennsylvania winter set in, the morale of the American troops was at an all-time low. The soldiers were forced to deal with a lack of both food and warm clothing, while Washington watched his army shrink due to desertions and expiring enlistments. Now, more than ever, a victory was desperately needed.
General Washington hatched a daring plan to cross the Delaware River under the cover of darkness, march to Trenton and attack the Hessian outposts in and around Trenton. The boats to be used for the crossing were gathered earlier in the month in compliance with Washington’s orders, primarily as a defensive measure. Various types of boats were collected; most notable were the large, heavy Durham boats used to carry pig iron down the Delaware.
Fully expecting to be supported by two divisions south of Trenton, Washington assembled his own troops near McConkey’s Ferry in preparation for the crossing. By 6 pm, 2,400 troops had begun crossing the ice-choked river. The operation was slow and difficult due to the condition of the river. There was an abrupt change in the weather forcing the men to fight their way through sleet and a blinding snowstorm. These obstacles proved to be too much for the supporting divisions led by Generals Cadwalader and Ewing, ultimately preventing their crossing at southern points along the Delaware.
Against all odds, Washington and his men successfully completed the crossing and marched into Trenton on the morning of December 26, achieving a resounding victory over the Hessians. By moving ahead with his bold and daring plan, Washington re-ignited the cause of freedom and gave new life to the American Revolution.
While we were at Washington Crossing Historic Park, we were treated to lunch at the Washington Crossing Inn. In attendance in addition to our unit members and their families, were Kenneth Wong, Civil Aide to the Secretary of the Army, Robert G. Loughery, Commission Chairman, County of Bucks and Dr. Charles Tweedy. We had a great meal and it was furnished by Dr. Tweedy and his wife. Thank you Doctor and Mrs. Tweedy. It was greatly appreciated & enjoyed.
On our trip from the hotel in Bensalem to Philadelphia for the Flag Day Celebration in our extremely nice motor coach that was graciously donated for our use. We were escorted by two Philadelphia Police Cars and four motorcycle patrolmen, now that is impressive. David had worked with the DOT to get I-95 closed off just for us. Nobody passed on our trip to Philadelphia and on our return to the hotel. The guys on the bikes would run ahead and block the entrance ramps in a rotating fashion. We were also escorted by a Veterans Motorcycle Group. What a great honor it was, the parade we never had. We also had our very on photography guy who followed us around all day. His is a wounded warrior from our current conflicts whose name is John Fleming of Patriot Photography. I will get his photos up as soon as I can. He only took about six thousand shots so I will have to do some good old picking and choosing. I will try to find some with out Dave Flores in them, but we all know how hard that will be. His handsome face shows up everywhere.
CELEBRATE ON INDEPENDENCE MALL
From star-spangled banners to five-star generals, Philadelphia celebrates the shared birthday of two of our country’s greatest institutions—the American flag and the U.S. Army. This year’s Stripes and Stars Festival commemorates the U.S. Army’s anniversary and the American flag’s birthday. The festival takes place annually on June 14, at locations throughout Independence National Historical Park and Historic Philadelphia, including Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, Christ Church Burial Ground, and the National Constitution Center. Events include flag raising ceremonies, a patriotic parade, a swearing-in of Army recruits, a dramatic skydiving performance, displays and demonstrations of U.S. Army equipment, giant flag folding activities, performances by the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, and a moving naturalization ceremony. Visitors can also participate in special Soldier Talks, in partnership with the “Meet Your Army” Campaign, at the National Constitution Center.
What is not mentioned above was the fact that our unit F Company 52nd Infantry, which became I Company 75th Rangers February 1969 was recognized by the speakers and our own David Christian.
In addition, we, as individuals were recognized by the Council of the City of Philadelphia by a Citation, signed by David Oh, Councilman-at-Large and Darrell L. Clarke, President dated June 14, 2019.
We were also recognized by the Senate of the State of Pennsylvania by Senate Resolution No. 166 introduced by Senator Robert M. Tomlinson and adopted by Senate of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania the 12th Day of June in the year of our Lord, two thousand nineteen.
We also had the great opportunity to meet a survivor of Pearl Harbor, Alex Horanzy, 97 years old. Debbie Douglas had a nice chat with this great American and found out that they both lived on Oahu, HI…her at Wheeler AFB and him at Schofield Army Barracks. He says his eyes lit up while talking about his time there. God Bless You Mr. Horanzy!
Mission BBQ fed us a great meal while at the Constitution Center and me, Nancy and Gerald and Cheryl Allday had the pleasure of sharing a table with Mr. Horanzy and his granddaughter. Also, we had the honor of seeing the newest American Citizens being sworn in at the Betsy Ross House. David Christian was a part of the ceremony and in his speech, he mentioned our own Dave Hill and his family. Continuing own on this busy day we boarded our private bus for a trip through Philadelphia to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Remember Rocky well Robert Busby ran up those stairs too. He said that Rocky didn’t have anything on him. I think the rest of us walked up, taking deep breaths with each step. What a beautiful place? While there we gathered on the steps and sang Happy Birthday to our President. Which was on the 14th of June.
On Saturday we had our business meeting at the hotel where we elected the new officers for the next two years. Dave Flores was elected President, Dave Hill, Vice President, Tom McMahon, Secretary, John Candiloro, Treasurer, and Dave Christian, Unit Director. The next get together will be in Lake Arthur, LA hosted by Harry and Shyron Suire. The next official meeting will be in Jacksonville, Il hosted by Judi McGath and her son Shane and his family.
Later that day we traveled over to the Parx Racing Facility where we were treated to our own private suite, our own private patio, a grill master cooking hotdogs and passing out beer for us and our own staff person taking our bets. I don’t think anyone struck it rich, but we did have fun. The third race of the day was The 75th Ranger Regiment Classic and was won by Iron Lily.
That night we had our dinner in the same suite, and we were treated to a choice of lobster, crab cakes or filet mignon. The food was outstanding the chef and his staff did an outstanding job. We were treated like royalty. Not bad for a bunch of Lurps and Rangers and their lovely wives and families.
We are in the process of writing this up. If you have anything to add or say send it to me.
A little history, In the winter of 1776, General George Washington and his ragged army had experienced only defeat and despair. The War for Independence was going badly, with failure following failure. In the preceding months, Washington’s campaign in New York had not gone well; the Battle of Long Island ended in a loss when the British troops managed to out-maneuver the Continental Army. A series of defeats settled around Washington as he was forced to retreat across New Jersey to Pennsylvania on December 7 and 8.
As the harsh Pennsylvania winter set in, the morale of the American troops was at an all-time low. The soldiers were forced to deal with a lack of both food and warm clothing, while Washington watched his army shrink due to desertions and expiring enlistments. Now, more than ever, a victory was desperately needed.
General Washington hatched a daring plan to cross the Delaware River under the cover of darkness, march to Trenton and attack the Hessian outposts in and around Trenton. The boats to be used for the crossing were gathered earlier in the month in compliance with Washington’s orders, primarily as a defensive measure. Various types of boats were collected; most notable were the large, heavy Durham boats used to carry pig iron down the Delaware.
Fully expecting to be supported by two divisions south of Trenton, Washington assembled his own troops near McConkey’s Ferry in preparation for the crossing. By 6 pm, 2,400 troops had begun crossing the ice-choked river. The operation was slow and difficult due to the condition of the river. There was an abrupt change in the weather forcing the men to fight their way through sleet and a blinding snowstorm. These obstacles proved to be too much for the supporting divisions led by Generals Cadwalader and Ewing, ultimately preventing their crossing at southern points along the Delaware.
Against all odds, Washington and his men successfully completed the crossing and marched into Trenton on the morning of December 26, achieving a resounding victory over the Hessians. By moving ahead with his bold and daring plan, Washington re-ignited the cause of freedom and gave new life to the American Revolution.
While we were at Washington Crossing Historic Park, we were treated to lunch at the Washington Crossing Inn. In attendance in addition to our unit members and their families, were Kenneth Wong, Civil Aide to the Secretary of the Army, Robert G. Loughery, Commission Chairman, County of Bucks and Dr. Charles Tweedy. We had a great meal and it was furnished by Dr. Tweedy and his wife. Thank you Doctor and Mrs. Tweedy. It was greatly appreciated & enjoyed.
On our trip from the hotel in Bensalem to Philadelphia for the Flag Day Celebration in our extremely nice motor coach that was graciously donated for our use. We were escorted by two Philadelphia Police Cars and four motorcycle patrolmen, now that is impressive. David had worked with the DOT to get I-95 closed off just for us. Nobody passed on our trip to Philadelphia and on our return to the hotel. The guys on the bikes would run ahead and block the entrance ramps in a rotating fashion. We were also escorted by a Veterans Motorcycle Group. What a great honor it was, the parade we never had. We also had our very on photography guy who followed us around all day. His is a wounded warrior from our current conflicts whose name is John Fleming of Patriot Photography. I will get his photos up as soon as I can. He only took about six thousand shots so I will have to do some good old picking and choosing. I will try to find some with out Dave Flores in them, but we all know how hard that will be. His handsome face shows up everywhere.
CELEBRATE ON INDEPENDENCE MALL
From star-spangled banners to five-star generals, Philadelphia celebrates the shared birthday of two of our country’s greatest institutions—the American flag and the U.S. Army. This year’s Stripes and Stars Festival commemorates the U.S. Army’s anniversary and the American flag’s birthday. The festival takes place annually on June 14, at locations throughout Independence National Historical Park and Historic Philadelphia, including Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, Christ Church Burial Ground, and the National Constitution Center. Events include flag raising ceremonies, a patriotic parade, a swearing-in of Army recruits, a dramatic skydiving performance, displays and demonstrations of U.S. Army equipment, giant flag folding activities, performances by the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, and a moving naturalization ceremony. Visitors can also participate in special Soldier Talks, in partnership with the “Meet Your Army” Campaign, at the National Constitution Center.
What is not mentioned above was the fact that our unit F Company 52nd Infantry, which became I Company 75th Rangers February 1969 was recognized by the speakers and our own David Christian.
In addition, we, as individuals were recognized by the Council of the City of Philadelphia by a Citation, signed by David Oh, Councilman-at-Large and Darrell L. Clarke, President dated June 14, 2019.
We were also recognized by the Senate of the State of Pennsylvania by Senate Resolution No. 166 introduced by Senator Robert M. Tomlinson and adopted by Senate of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania the 12th Day of June in the year of our Lord, two thousand nineteen.
We also had the great opportunity to meet a survivor of Pearl Harbor, Alex Horanzy, 97 years old. Debbie Douglas had a nice chat with this great American and found out that they both lived on Oahu, HI…her at Wheeler AFB and him at Schofield Army Barracks. He says his eyes lit up while talking about his time there. God Bless You Mr. Horanzy!
Mission BBQ fed us a great meal while at the Constitution Center and me, Nancy and Gerald and Cheryl Allday had the pleasure of sharing a table with Mr. Horanzy and his granddaughter. Also, we had the honor of seeing the newest American Citizens being sworn in at the Betsy Ross House. David Christian was a part of the ceremony and in his speech, he mentioned our own Dave Hill and his family. Continuing own on this busy day we boarded our private bus for a trip through Philadelphia to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Remember Rocky well Robert Busby ran up those stairs too. He said that Rocky didn’t have anything on him. I think the rest of us walked up, taking deep breaths with each step. What a beautiful place? While there we gathered on the steps and sang Happy Birthday to our President. Which was on the 14th of June.
On Saturday we had our business meeting at the hotel where we elected the new officers for the next two years. Dave Flores was elected President, Dave Hill, Vice President, Tom McMahon, Secretary, John Candiloro, Treasurer, and Dave Christian, Unit Director. The next get together will be in Lake Arthur, LA hosted by Harry and Shyron Suire. The next official meeting will be in Jacksonville, Il hosted by Judi McGath and her son Shane and his family.
Later that day we traveled over to the Parx Racing Facility where we were treated to our own private suite, our own private patio, a grill master cooking hotdogs and passing out beer for us and our own staff person taking our bets. I don’t think anyone struck it rich, but we did have fun. The third race of the day was The 75th Ranger Regiment Classic and was won by Iron Lily.
That night we had our dinner in the same suite, and we were treated to a choice of lobster, crab cakes or filet mignon. The food was outstanding the chef and his staff did an outstanding job. We were treated like royalty. Not bad for a bunch of Lurps and Rangers and their lovely wives and families.
We are in the process of writing this up. If you have anything to add or say send it to me.