USS South Dakota Reunion Page

Updated 07/23/09

REUNIONS OF THE PAST

Since 1970, the crew members of the U.S. S. South Dakota have been getting together to share their experiences aboard the BB57. Reunions are held odd numbered years over the Fourth of July weekend in Sioux Falls, South Dakota., home of the memorial.
Many have attended all of the reunions, others have yet to make their first trip. In the past, mini reunions have been held in Las Vegas, Nevada, Norfolk, VA, Mobile Alabama, and Romulus, MI. Not to mention the get together's at the Re-Commissioning of the U.S.S. Missouri and U.S.S. Wisconsin. The pride shown among the crew members is something everyone should see and experience as I have. There isn't a battle that is not mentioned at least once when they come together to reminisce, the sea language is still used., and the respect for their commanding officers still exist.

               

2009 REUNION NEWS  

National Reunion held July 2 - 5, 2009 in Sioux Falls, SD
Home of the Battleship USS South Dakota Memorial

The reunion was a great success with 21 shipmates and 60 family members and friends attending. During the casino trip, a plaque was presented to the casino staff for their past support and kindness shown to the crew. For the last three reunions, the casino has given free lunch, $10.00 playing money, and transportation to and from the casino.

Another plaque was given out on Friday evening to the Gordon Western Lodge for their support of the crew. The veterans who belong to this Lodge have taken time out of their busy schedules and entertained the shipmates out at the casino for the last two reunions. Ray Redwing was our guest at the dinner to accept the plaque on behalf of the Lodge.

On Saturday, the rain tried to put a damper on the Memorial program but with the help of Karen Dunham, Dave Witte and the Park District band, the program was successfully moved to the exhibition center at the hotel where we were greeted by the Mayor of Sioux Falls, SD. The names of 58 deceased crew members since the 2007 reunion were read.
The weather cleared by 1:00 PM and photos were taken on the lawn of the hotel. And then many re-visited the memorial. In the evening we reminisced and said our good-bye's with the hope of being able to meet one more time in 2010.

You can view some of the photos taken on the Photo page 6.