2016 USS Ranger (CVA/CV-61) Reunion

 

2016 USS Ranger (CVA/CV-61) Reunion

Charleston, South Carolina

 

The Reunion is now over and My Bride and I enjoyed the event.  The highpoint of the event was the Patriots Point's Institute of History, Science and Technology presentation  of "Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things" From Boat to Boots and Beyond held onboard the USS Yorktown on Friday 30 September 2016.  This presentation included the story of Lt. Col. Lan T. Dalat's rescue on March 20, 1981 when he along with 137 other Boat People were rescued by the USS Ranger (CV-61) somewhere in the South China Sea.  He had been adrift for many days and it was a most challenging situation.  Finally they were rescued.  He retold this emotional story to us Ranger Reunion attendees as well as over 75 students of Sterling Elementary School in South Carolina.  All in attendance were spellbound as he related the story of His life and how he is now a Lt. Col. in the United States Army.

 

While we were in Charleston we took the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful breakfast at "The Early Bird Diner" on Highway 17 in Charleston.  It was a great meal.  Our Ranger Friends from Iowa were with us.

This is a picture of our USS Ranger Friends from Iowa along with Lt. Col. Lan T. Dalat.  They are holding a 3 inch by 5 inch section of the Ranger Flight Deck which was presented to Lt. Co.l Dalat.

In addition to the usual reunion activities which allow plenty of time for Fellowship with former Shipmates and others who served on this great Warship we enjoyed many opportunities for tours in the Charleston area.

 

My Bride and I enjoyed and also learned a lot about Tea while visiting the "Charleston Tea Plantation" which is the only tea plantation in the United States.  Of course we visited the gift shop and returned to Macon with several selections of their tea.

 

In addition to visiting the Tea Plantation we visited the Deep Water Vineyard.  We enjoyed the opportunity to taste five wines and again, while exiting the tasting room we had the opportunity to obtain their products.  I could not make up my mind, so I acquired a case of their products. 

 

In summary, a Wonderful Reunion and a great opportunity to learn about Our Nation's Heroes and also an exposure to the fine products of Carolina's Low Country.