The 16th Annual Indiana Vietnam Veterans Reunion was held September 17-20, 1998. More commonly known as 'Kokomo' to us; this event was held at the site recently purchased by the Howard County Vietnam Veterans (reunion hosts) located southeast of Kokomo, Indiana. [DQS members who attend this yearly event have made a contribution in the Association's name towards this purchase.]

Music, speakers and such fill the stage area and the 21 gun salute fire by 7 howitzers from a local National Guard unit is always an attraction to those present. Various food and beverage vendors are present along with many military related vendors and others. On site camping and unit tents are a popular part of the activities enjoyed by many the large crowd in attendance.

A popular attraction this year were the rides offered on 2 Vietnam era Hueys. For 3+ days these valiant steeds from our past roared, soared, buzzed, swooped, flared, dropped, twisted, turned and looped through the air from late in the morning until in to the evening. Low level (corn stalk high) flying was much in evidence as a seemingly endless line of Vietnam vets, family and friends took the opportunity to either renew their experience with these 'friends from the past' or to taste the thrill of this type of aviating for the first time. These were not pony rides at the fair- but rather wild horses unleashed with human cargo strapped to their bellies! Of our group the quintet of Janet and Clyde Larsen, George Nagelschmidt, Ed Allen and Hugh Roberts "sucked it up" and braved the exhilarating defiance of gravity and aerodynamics (and to some, common sense). All agreed that the 'ride' was well worth it and that they were glad that they had taken advantage of the opportunity to "ride the wild wind".

As has become usual, Hugh Roberts & Co. served as the primary host of the DQS 'Swamp Tent'. Many others pitched in with efforts and/or goods. Plenty of food (breakfasts, polish sausages, cakes, beef & noodles with corn muffins, popcorn, baked apples - a Kokomo specialty of Hugh's, and etc. were among the offerings) and drink (beer, soda, milk, coffee, hot chocolate, water, juices and more) was available. The Swamp Tent (Hughie's Diner??) also had plenty of room to sit and chat, rest or whatever. Many stories were shared and with or about each other. All was much enjoyed and appreciated by the DQS Vets and friends and family who were present. As with all of our activities together, a lot of pitching in and helping out occurs and adds to the camaraderie enjoyed.

On Friday evening we were guests of Dale Peters and his friends for several bowls of chili. Thanks guys!

Dale along with Forest and Cheyanne Nichols, with able help from George, served as our ,advance party' and staked out and held our AO until reinforcements arrived.     THANKS!

A donation was collected to add to the $$ donated in DQS's name.