2024 Reunion in gettysburg, PA
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      The reunion in Gettysburg this year was an option to the Amphibious Ships Reunion cruise. Since some of us had no interest in the cruise and were invited by the American Amphibious Force Association, AAFA, we decided to attend their reunion in Gettysburg. Because this reunion was organized by a different group than the past 25 years it was a little different but just as enjoyable. The host hotel was the Hilton Garden Inn located in Gettysburg. Wednesday was registration and open hospitality room. On Thursday we boarded 2 busses for the trip to the Gettysburg National Military Park, Museum and Visitor Center. There we watched a 20-minute movie about the battle and Lincoln’s address. This was followed by the Cyclorama. The Cyclorama is an enormous 360-degree painting of Pickets charge during the final day of the battle. We were also able to spend time in the museum before heading to lunch at the Dobbins House, the oldest building in the city of Gettysburg. After lunch we went on a three-hour bus tour of the battlefield with a knowledgeable guide. We were able to get off the bus often as he described many aspects of the battle. It was interesting and informative. 
​       On Friday, John, Paul, and I drove over to the Eisenhower Farm. It is the only home Ike and Mamie Eisenhower ever owned. The tour is free and we learned a lot about Ike as a soldier and president. We then went into Gettysburg for lunch at the Farnsworth Inn, a quaint tavern on the main drag.
      Friday night was Pizza night. The group also discussed locations for next year’s reunion. Four cities were nominated and discussed then put to a vote. Portland, Maine was selected for the 2025 reunion in the Fall. this was followed by an auction of mostly navy and LST related items.
     Saturday night was the traditional banquet with the missing man’s table and memorial service. After a buffet  meal and desert, goodbyes were said and hopes of seeing everyone in Portland next year. 
    The AAFA is a group of mostly LSTs that has been around for many years. Like all groups their numbers are shrinking so they are welcoming all amphibious ships. The decision has been made by the Amphibious Ships Reunion Group to join AAFA for future reunions.  

ATTENDEES
George Clifton
Elton Fauber
​Ada Fauber
John Karlis
Paul Smith