Again, we had a very nice turnout from DQS at the Indiana Vietnam Veterans reunion held in Kokomo, Indiana September 16-19, 1999.

The "new" DQS Swamp Tent was surrounded by several other DQS campsites. Some of our group campout at the reunion site and others stay at area hotels and spend the day and evening at the site. Several of our attendees arrived on Thursday, the 16^th. to set up and claim our AO, which was reserved and 'staked out' by Dale Peters and his (and our) friends. Others arrived on Friday and some just spent Saturday with us. We had a nice location - not to far from the stage/vendor area and yet far enough away to not be overwhelmed by the activities from and around the stage. Great Job, Dale!

Hugh Roberts brought the "new" Swamp Tent (our HQ for this reunion) and set ups - tables, chairs, cooking needs (grill, camp stoves, pots, pans and etc.) - and other supplies, as well as food. Forrest and Cheyanne Nichols were again gracious in utilizing their nearby camper, equipment and supplies to add to our enjoyment (a whole, roasted turkey comes to mind). Several others supplied or contributed food and etc. for our 'Mess' efforts. Dale Peters and friends graced us with 'Friday Night Chili' again this year while former cook, George Nagelschmidt turned some polish sausages into 'JJ Carroll Dogs'. Among other plentiful food enjoyed was Beef-n-Noodles (a Tank/Hughie effort), Chowder and 'Dalat Dogs' (more polish sausage) by Ed Allen, bean soup, salads and relish trays, tomatoes, cookies, raw veggies and Hugh's Spice Cake (good every year!) and many other side items. Some of the contributors were: Clyde & Janet Larsen, more Forrest & Cheyanne, Sid & Orene Babcock and I know some that I'm missing here. In true DQS style, many pitched in not only with the supplies; but with the cooking and cleaning too! Doing things together always adds to the enjoyment garnered from such activities. Of course, breakfast was served each morning also. In between or late at night we also enjoyed popcorn, coffee, hot chocolate and Hugh's 'Late Night Baked/Grilled Apples'. As you can tell - we ate well, enjoyed good fellowship and were able to amply entertain any drop-in guests.

The Chopper Rides were back - but only one was able to make it, which created quite a backlog - and 9 of our group (including 4 of the ladies) agreed to 'test their mettle' but due to the backlog were unable to do so. All have resolved to 'do it early' next year. Come and watch or, better yet, come and join us!

For whatever reason, there was a noticeable increase in the number of fellow Vietnam Vets who came in to the "Swamp Tent' or stopped us as we walked through the reunion site to "Thank Us For What We Did For Them In 'Nam". This brings about a very proud, fulfilling feeling and yet humbles us because we know that we were 'just doing our job'. One 101^st Vet stated, emphatically, that we did not need to welcome him home because we were the reason that he was able to come home. Meaningful hugs and handshakes were exchanged and with a nod (and tears in his eyes) he simply offered, "Thanks" and "Welcome Home". More hugs, tears and handshakes ensued. To all of DQS - Thanks! and Welcome Home! - from all who share these feelings with us; and - Job Well Done! - from your fellow DQS Vets.