Well, Spring is here and Summer is on the way. A great time to rethink what we are and where we are going as VPB-2l. The little input I have had says "Don't let go." Even though the ranks are thinning, let's continue our activities. That's what I'm thinking, BUT we need two thing which most have been remiss about.

Second, what about getting me news? There are a faithful few who always come through but not enough to make things interesting. We are more and more getting to be stay-at-homes, and it would be nice to get a newsletter like this regularly. If you're interested, you'll do something; if not ????

2001 REUNION

I wrote and asked that the following message be read at the reunion and it's reprinted here as a matter of interest. Our esteemed Treasurer "Gator" Todd Silverman read these words:

To VPB-21 Reunion Group From D. H. Sweet

As you know, Ido a lot ofwriting about WWII and PBMs, and I feel strongly about the legacy we should leave when we depart this mortal coil. What VPB-2l means to me is hard to describe. It is the place where I grew up from a smart aleck 17-year-old to a man and to someone who made a success of his life. I won't bore you with details, but let me make a point. The relationships (bonds) that I have with you guys developed because of the war and the attendant confusion, worry and ever-present spectre of death that we all faced; and some did not survive. ..we were the lucky ones to have lived to enjoy a life of family, friends, good times and bad, but above all, the comradeship of VPB-2l." I know that sounds maudlin and a bit corny, but you would not be here in AZ if not for that and I - guarantee you that those of us who did not make it feel badly that they could not for various reasons.

I worry, as I know Norm, Todd and Frosty do, that we are losing a battle. The battle to keep 21 viable. Age and its illnesses are our biggest enemy, and yet I think the aforementioned men and myself certainly want to continue the organization. We need to call on the strength of our families and the women and children and grandchildren to truly become part of us. A great example is Crew 5. I wish I were there to make one of my patented impassioned speeches, but let me say we welcome the family members here and we want to have you others officially join us. It's no big deal, just some small dues and at worst you will get a nice expanded Scuttlebutt newsletter (starting with next issue -May). We have a scholarship fund; but above all we have friendship of an unusual meaningfulness. So let's not let that slip away, and let's leave a legacy for our families to be proud of.

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Table Of Contents

Scuttlebutt Corner - Letters to the Editor
Business Meeting
Shipmate News
Article: "It is possible to visit your wartime home again!"
Final Attendance At Reunion
New Book: "The Forgotten Heroes"
Pictures and much more!

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"VPB-21 Alumni Association Newsletter Summary Page"

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