2014
Hof Reunion Association Official History
1996 – Las Vegas, Nevada
July 1-4
The first advertised Hof Reunion was organized in
1996. The reunion was open to anybody that had
ever been assigned to the Hof Kaserne or
Doebraberg and was advertised in the V.F.W. &
American Legion Magazines.
Anders, Robert Hoerath, Erika Thuemling, Anna
Mueller, Erich Rohleder and Helga Wuerdinger
joined with the Traub’s to plan a fantastic gathering
in Hof in which the Americans marched in the Hof
Volksfest Parade. Approximately 37 Americans
traveled to Hof for the event.
1999 – Reno, Nevada
Leon & Dotty Weston and Mike and Barbara Jean
Buttell organized the reunion. (Leon, A former
606th Commander and Dotty had been a teacher at
the dependent school. Mike was a former USAF
Officer and B.J. had also been a teacher.) The
primary motivation for the reunion was “to
welcome a group of Hofer’s
that had worked with the
USAF in Hof”. Helga Lange,
Erika
Thuemling,
Anna
Mueller, Hanns Karl Ritter,
Erich
Rohleder,
Helga
Wuerdinger, and a few others
led the Hofer’s.
The
Association
emblem consist of the
seal of the town of
Hof, Germany, with
the year on the left
and the year 1975 on
the right, surrounded
by the words HOF
REUNION
arranged
around
the
top
perimeter and the
word
ASSOCIATION
arranged around the
bottom
perimeter.
The colors of the
Association emblem
are: Hof seal colors
are the same as the
seal of Hof, Germany.
The year 1948 and
1975 are black. The
words HOF REUNION
– black, red, yellow,
and
the
word
ASSOCIATION – red,
white, blue with white
stars in the blue.
The Westons & Buttells
selected the Harrah’s HotelCasino in Las Vegas,
Nevada. It was called the
Hof/Doebraberg
Reunion,
and was July 1-4, 1996. In
attendance
were
several
former teachers and Officers.
Also in attendance were John
& Inge Traub, Rees & Susan
Dews, Larry Thall, Phil
Hughes, Art & Karen
Weatherwalks, Bob & Mary
Fernandez, and Art Darling.
Everybody had such a great
time a committee was
formed, led by John & Inge
Traub, to plan a 1998 get
together in Hof.
1998 – Hof, Germany
End of July
In 1998, our German Friends reciprocated: Franz
hofreunion.com
7-10 September
In 1999, Chuck & Monika Wilson organized a
602/606 Reunion in Reno, NV. The Reunion was at
the Circus Circus Hotel Casino. Some of the folks
attending were Bob
Kingsley Barracks: Hof Kaserne
&
Jeanette
(as it was known previously by
Thornburg, Nate &
the Americans) was designated
as Kingsley Barracks in June
Gwen Fetrow, Stan
1949 by General Order #51, HQ
& Betty Rushton,
European Command dated 2
June 1949.
Hank
&
Sally
Green, Marty &
Alice Habecker, Eddie & Dot Crump, Wayne
Bennett, Larry & Jackie August, Wade & Gladys
Fink, Larry & Mary Lou Shriver, Bob Alekson,
Francis & JoAnn Fukumoto, Tony Donofrio, Rich
& Terri McGoldrick, Tom & Monika Nickerson,
Claude & Myrtle `Spicer, Rees & Susan Dews,
Dick Nelson, Phil Hughes, the Darling’s and about
50 others.
2000 – Colorado Springs, Colorado
8-10 September
Just prior to the Reno Reunion, Chuck Wilson
learned of plans for a 2000 Hof Reunion at the
Embassy Suites Hotel in Colorado Springs.
Richard & Beverly Hurliman, assisted by Hal &
Dot Olson, Jim Smith, and Jim Riggin were
planning the 2000 Reunion. As the word spread via
the Internet, an all-out effort was made to promote
the three-day get together. About 215 people
attended. The tours were well planned. The
Banquet consisted of a buffet luncheon, short
memorial service, and introduction of Baron Ernst
von Waldenfels, a Host of the 1998 Reunion.
At the Banquet, Hal Olson asked, “How many
people are interested in returning to Hof in 2002”?
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Nearly everybody in attendance held up his or her
hand. Hal then asked, “Do we have any volunteers
that could help with a 2002 Reunion in Hof”?
Chuck Wilson raised his hand! Hal then announced,
“Chuck Wilson just volunteered to plan and
organize the 2002 Reunion to be held in Hof Saale.”
Ho Ho Ho
2002 – Hof, Germany
September 15-22
As Chuck & Monika returned to Sacramento, they
discussed the approach for planning the 2002
Reunion. Chuck decided it would be necessary to
officially form an Association to finance the search
for former Hof Colleagues and produce a
Newsletter four times a year to maintain the interest
and keep everybody on the same sheet for planning.
Hal Olson’s roster was combined with Chuck’s list
and the Master Hof Roster was created. Phil Ruth
then provided a list of about 200 names he had
extracted from old orders. Dick Metz contributed
names and Gordon Allbritton and C.A. Russell soon
joined the search effort. Many more names and
addresses were added to the newly formed
Association Roster.
Chuck talked with Tom Bryson, Tom Nickerson,
Jim Patterson, Dan Scanny, Sam Suber (deceased),
Dean Reed, Mike Becker (deceased), CA Russell,
Barry Springsteen, Francis Fukumoto, Ted Bey,
Bob Alekson, Tony Donofrio and several others.
He asked if they would serve as Association
Officers until an official organization was formed.
A mail-in ballot, containing the names of officers,
was provided to the membership with the Hof
Connection Newsletter. The membership officially
elected the first slate of officers. The membership
was also asked to vote for the month they wanted to
hold the Hof/Saale Reunion. September was
selected by a majority vote.
In the meantime, Chuck & Monika flew to
Germany to seek support for the planned 2002
Reunion. They met with Hanns Karl Ritter, Erika
Theumling, Robert Hoerath, Manfred Koehler,
Klause Beer and Frau Kara. All of the above
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2014
offered suggestions, guidance, and support. A
tentative itinerary for the 2002 reunion was agreed
upon and tour contracts with Alexander Viol Tours
were signed.
Chuck produced a Constitution & By-laws for the
Association, reviewed by Attorney Jim Slothower
and approved by the newly formed Board of
Directors. He then registered the Hof Reunion
Association with the State of California, Secretary
of State. The Hof Reunion Association is Official.
Initial Association membership fees had been set at
$10 a year. The Board of Directors soon
realized$10 would not be sufficient for printing and
mailing a newsletter
four times a year,
Hof is also known as Bavarian
Siberia. T emperatures are
administrative
usually several degrees lower
postage,
telephone
than in most other parts of
Bavaria, particularly in winter,
service and the many
and because civil servants were
other
expenses
often transferred to Hof as a
punishment.
involved
when
running an effective
organization. The membership fee was raised to $15
a year and the Hof Connection Newsletter
publication was reduced to two times a year.
The Hof Reunion Association held it’s FIRST
OFFICIAL REUNION, organized by Chuck &
Monika Wilson & Robert Hoerath, at the Quality
Hotel, Hof/Saale, Germany, September 15-22,
2002. Approximately 150 Association members and
35 German Guests were in attendance. President
Tom Bryson called the first General Membership
Meeting to order at 1700 hours, September 17,
2002. The first order of business was membership
ratification of the Constitution & By-laws of
Association. Tom Bryson then turned the meeting
over to the incoming President, Tom Nickerson.
Nathan Sparks was officially elected to replace the
deceased Sam Suber as Association Treasurer. Jim
Patterson was confirmed as 1st V. P., Bruce Orr
replaced Dan Scanny as 2nd V. P., Dick Obidinski
as 3rd Vice President and C.A. Russell,
Membership Chairman.
The first official Hof Reunion Association get
together was very successful. The Bürgermeister
held a reception at the Hof Rathaus and each
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
attendee was presented a “Hof in Bayern Ganz
Oben” coffee cup. Ken Putman presented the
Bürgermeister with a red, white & blue baseball
cap. We were then served wienerwurst, beer and
wine. After the Bürgermeister’s reception, we went
to Klaus Beers’ Fernweh Park for TV promotional,
pictures, and city sign display. This activity was
followed by a visit to the Teddy Bear Museum.
Ladies from the Hof Chamber of Commerce (ProHof) prepared cake and coffee.
On the 3rd day we toured the Kaserne, Doebraberg,
Security Service Site and Moedlareuth Museum; the
German Air Force treated us to a wonderful
Jul 2002 (HRA Newsletter)
German Cultural Tourist Tips
1. Never, ever, walk on the grass. Ever.
2. Never cross a pedestrian crossing when the man is red, even if
nothing is coming. On the other hand, crossing where there is no
official crossing place is perfectly acceptable.
3. Tipping seems strange to many Germans. The people you
expect to tip (attendants for example) have a fixed price (50
cents) but tipping hairdressers and the like may seem akin to
starting a revolution. It is OK to round off at 1 Euro or .50 cents.
4. Never tip taxi drivers, since they don't even open the door for
you, (Round off OK).
5. If you get caught up in a bar where drinking songs are being
sung, do not hide behind your beer hoping that nobody will notice
you. It is far more acceptable to join in. Of course nobody expects
you to know the words, you're a foreigner, so just wave your beer
around and make appropriate singing noises during the chorus.
luncheon at the Kaserne; The German Air Force
Commander gave us a briefing about their Sound
Research Mission and allowed us free access to the
dorms and the other facilities we once called home.
everybody enjoyed the lighting of the city. We
continued the guided sighting tour the following
day. On the return trip to Hof, we visited the
Becherovka distillery in Karlory Vary, needless to
say,” we sang all the way home” to the Quality in
Hof.
On the 7th Day, the Hof Family held its Auf
Wiedersehen Breakfast. Helen Tony closed the
2002 Association Reunion with her Scottish Ballad,
“Haste Ye Back”.
Since the great 2002 Hof Reunion and membership
ratification of the Constitution and By-laws many
improvements in Association operating procedures
have been made. Treasurer Nathan Sparks
researched and prepared the documents
for
obtaining Internal Revenue Service, nonprofit,
charitable, tax-exempt status under section 501 ©
(19) of the IRS Code. Barry & Sue Springsteen
reconfigured the Association Website and have
continued to make improvements to
the
Associations greatest exposure for public viewing.
Phil Murray accepted the position of Hof
Connection Newsletter Editor and continues to
improve the semi-annual publication. Membership
Chairman C.A. Russell has employed his skills and
uncanny ability to find the missing by locating more
than 800 former Hof Colleagues. Chuck Wilson has
submitted proposed Amendments to
the
Constitution and By-laws that have resulted in
improved volunteer workload and has resulted in
increased management efficiency.
The 4th day was a tour of Tettau Porzellan Fabrik
and lunch with the Bürgermeister of Tettau.
Following lunch, we proceeded to the Hummel
Factory near Coburg where many members
purchased figurines at a discount and were treated
with a small Hummel gift to commemorate the
occasion.
Since the first official Hof Reunion Association
event, the reunions have progressively improved
with each gathering of the Hof Family.
On the 5th day, 3 buses departed the Quality Hotel
for an overnight tour to Prague. This tour was the
highlight of the 2002 Hof Saale Reunion. We
visited old town Prague. We then enjoyed a
Luncheon Cruise on the Moldau River. There was a
band on each deck for dancing and of course,
The 2003 Association Reunion was held at the
Stardust Hotel-Casino, Las Vegas. NV. (Tom
Nickerson–President/Chuck Wilson - Secretary) We
had 330 members in attendance. The Stardust
provided connecting hospitality suites with a patio
near the pool. Tom Bryson provided the duty
hofreunion.com
2003 – Las Vegas, Nevada
6-10 October
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
schedule for volunteers and Tom & Monika
Nickerson made sure beverages & snacks were
plentiful. Ute Sparks made the Association photo
albums available for everyone to view.
Unfortunately, a few, one of kind pictures were
removed from the albums. We hope the missing
photographs will one day show up in the
Association P.O. Box so everybody will have the
pleasure of viewing them at our annual get together.
M.C. Francis Fukumoto provided the memorial
service, and Col. John Elledge the invocation.
Boeing Engineer, Norman Hines, Col John
Stevenson, Col Marion Bacon Oelke, Col Leon
Weston and the USAF Thunderbirds Executive
Officer, Capt. Sean Cotter delivered humorous but
informative messages. The “Dummkopfs” which
reminded us of the great times at the Hof
Freiheitshalle provided German dance music.
Tom Nickerson who led the membership in the
Pledge of Allegiance called the
General
Membership Meeting to order. Nathan Sparks
provided financial statement. The membership
voted to waive Secretary Chuck Wilson’s reading of
the Hof Reunion minutes. Tom turned the meeting
over to incoming president Jim Patterson. The 2004
Site Selection ballots were counted and Branson,
MO. Won by 14 votes. Jim Beard, the Branson
coordinator recommended we bypass Branson and
go with the runner up, San Antonio, Texas. (The
Association Board later moved the 2004 Event to
Biloxi, MS due to a breakdown in negotiations with
the San Antonio Hotels & Visitors Bureau.) Jim
Riggin was elected to the 3rd VP position vacated
by Dick Obidinski who had moved to 2nd VP as a
result of Bruce Orr moving to 1st V.P., Nathan
Sparks-Treasurer, Chuck Wilson – Secretary and
C.A. Russell-Membership Chairman.
2004 – Biloxi, Mississippi
The membership approved a $1000.00 donation to
the Air Force Enlisted Widows Home and $350.00
to the V.A. Blind Veterans Golf Tournament.
Jim & Traudl Riggin, JoAnn Fukumoto, Ralph
Glover, Dick Obidinski and several others put on a
great Reception-Social program. Traudl’s beautiful
voice filled the Stardust Convention Center with the
singing of German & American folk songs. Steve
Murphrey, E.T. Row, and Tom Mikloiche delivered
magnificent 5-minute talks about their experiences
at Hof.
A Tour of Boulder Dam, lunch in the Lake Mead
Recreation Area, and a visit to the Valley of Fire
served as an escape from the quarter machines.
The Banquet was marvelous with Bruce Orr as
hofreunion.com
October 25-29
The 2004 Reunion was held at the Imperial Palace
in Biloxi, MS, with more than 365 members in
attendance and a few non-members showing up for
a quick look. (Jim Patterson, President/Chuck
Wilson - Secretary). We were honored with the
presence of the 9th CMSgt of the Air Force, Jim
Binnicker, who also serves as Chief Executive
Officer of the
606th Aircraft Control &
USAF Enlisted
Warning Squadron Jan 1964 - Jul 1974
Foundation.
In January 1964 the 606th was
assigned to Doebraberg, Germany
(near Hof). Upon activation, the unit
absorbed the men and equipment of
Detachment 2, 602nd Aircraft Control
and
Warning
Squadron.
The
squadron's primary responsibility as a
reporting post was to identify and track
all aircraft approaching the West
German—East
and
Czechoslovakian—West
German
borders and forward information
relating to these tracks to the control
center. A secondary responsibility
included functioning as a back—up
unit for corridor control for the
southern air corridor into West Berlin.
Dick Obidinski
operated
the
hospitality suite
and bar. Dick
and
Tom
Nickerson kept it
well stocked with
beverages
and
snacks. C. A.
Russell provided
a DVD player
booked up to the
T.V. for a continuous display of photos from the
good old days at Hof. Ute Sparks again provided
the Association photo albums.
Jim Patterson called the Monday afternoon General
Membership meeting to order. Chuck Wilson
suggested the Las Vegas minutes be accepted as
published in the Hof Connection Newsletter.
Nathan Sparks gave the financial report. Sadly, 1st
V.P. Bruce Orr passed away ten days before the
Biloxi Reunion therefore 2 V.P. Dick Obidinski
became the Association President. Don Riverkamp
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
was elected 2nd V.P. and Bobby Sturdevant was
elected 3rd V.P. and Jerry Mangas was elected
Association Secretary.
Tours of the Biloxi area and Keesler AFB were held
Tuesday morning and a tour to New Orleans on
Wednesday.
Another
great
reception
and
social
program
was provided by
Jim & Traudl
Riggin and their
beautiful daughter
Tanya. Brenda &
Archie
Emery
contributed to the
outstanding roster
of talent, Norman
& Sandi Gunther
demonstrated the
Carolina Shag and “The Top Hats” (Don
Riverkamp, George Fahrbach and John Pace) had
the audience rolling on the floor with their “top hat
dance”. E.T. Row and Bobby Sturdevant gave 5minute talks.
Hurricane Katrina of the 2005
Atlantic hurricane season was
the costliest natural disaster, as
well as one of the five deadliest
hurricanes, in the history of the
United States. Among recorded
Atlantic hurricanes, it was the
sixth strongest overall. At least
1,836 people died in the actual
hurricane and in the subsequent
floods, making it the deadliest
U.S. hurricane since the 1928
Okeechobee hurricane; total
property damage was estimated
at $81 billion.
Dick Barry, as M.C., began with the introduction of
the Guest of Honor, 9th Chief Master Sergeant of
the Air Force, Jim & Mrs. Binnicker. Association
Officers, and Peggy Cicutto Adams and Aubrey
Shaw were provided special recognition for their
part in making the Biloxi Reunion a success. Dick
Barry called on the Keesler Air Force Base Honor
Guard for presentation of the Colors. Francis
Fukumoto and his ten assistants delivered the
memorial service. Jimmy Johnson, Gail Norvell,
and CMSgt Binniker gave 5-minute talks. Chuck
Wilson presented Chief Binniker a $1500.00
donation for the Air Force Enlisted Foundation.
2005 – Nashville, Tennessee
September 5-10
The 2005 Nashville Reunion was held at the
Holiday Inn Select and was absolutely marvelous.
In attendance were 240 members (72 cancellations
hofreunion.com
2014
due to Hurricane Katrina). Dick Obidinski,
President, and Jerry Mangas, Secretary coordinated
the reunion. Bobby (Stu) and Marcey Sturdevant
arranged a great force of volunteers to work the
hospitality room. The stalwarts, Monika Wilson,
Ute Sparks, Traudl and Jim Riggin, Monika
Nickerson, C.A. Russell, Barry and Sue
Springsteen, Pat Schiermeister, Eadie Patterson,
Dick Obidinski, and Don Riverkamp were right in
the midst of handling the registration packages, hat
and t-shirt sales, arranging the banquet seating, the
tours, and answering all questions members had
about the reunion.
The business meeting was held the first afternoon
with the election of officers and changes to our
constitution and by-laws. The big changes were
eliminating the office of 3rd Vice President,
creating the office of Adjutant; adding the position
of Web Master to the Executive Board; the
Executive Board reduced from all past Presidents as
advisors, to just the outgoing President as Board
Advisor. Officers moving up and/or elected were:
Jim Riggin, President; Don Riverkamp, Vice
President; Stu Sturdevant, 2nd Vice President;
Chuck Wilson, Adjutant; Jerry Mangas, Secretary;
Nate Spark, Treasurer; CA Russell, Membership
Chairman; Barry Springsteen, Web Master; and
Board Advisor, Dick Obidinski. A motion was
made for a donation of $1000 to the Air Force
Enlisted Foundation and approved. The finalist
cities for the 2007 Reunion were announced:
Austin, Denver, Ogden, and Reno. Also announced
was a reminder the 2006 Annual Reunion would be
held in Hof, Germany with Robert Hoerath, and
Chuck Wilson as the reunion coordinators.
The daily tours were very well received. There was
the “Discover Nashville” tour providing an
excellent overview of the city. The Grand Ole
Opry, with the Martha White flour commercials,
and “Little” Jimmy Dickens performing. The
“General Jackson Riverboat Cruise” down the
Cumberland River offered great entertainment with
equally great southern food.
The Tuesday afternoon social was hit pretty hard do
to “Katrina”. The entertainment was centered on
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Tanja Riggin, however, FEMA decided to take her
away to work with the Katrina victims and disaster
relief. The show had to go on, so, in-house
performers, Traudl Riggin, Brenda and Archie
Emery, and John Pace stepped up and did a superb
job of singing. Ralph Glover did a little song and
dance and some comedy; JoAnn Fukumoto
provided a show of grace from the Hawaiian
Islands. Let us not forget the wonderful talk given
by Margot Payne. She described the “shock and
awe” upon arriving in America from Germany for
the first time.
Andy Brads, attending his first Hof Reunion ever,
conducted a real live auction instead of our planned
“Silent Auction”. Andy took the stage, and the rest
is history. He got the members into a competitive
bidding war, a really fun time and generated loads
of cash for our Biloxi Hurricane Relief Fund. The
top items were a beautiful, patriotic themed,
handmade quilt by June Parnell, and a large pair of
“Hummel’s” made and hand-painted by Hilde
Middendorf. The live auction was a very big
success.
Bandaleroes”, took over, entertained us and got the
majority of people up to dance. During the band
breaks, we had the 50/50 drawings. Set up by Stu
Sturdevant, with 50% going to the Biloxi Disaster
Relief and 50% going out as cash prizes. ALL
winners in the 50/50 drawing donated their share
back to the relief fund. The total amount the HOF
Reunion donated to the hurricane relief fund was
$4,137.50. Art Everhart and Peggy Adams later
presented an Association check for that amount to
the Biloxi Salvation Army.
Friday morning brought the Auf Wiedersehen
breakfast, one last omelet from Walter, the Cajun
Omelet King, and everyone saying their goodbyes
until next time. Thanks Nashville, we had a great
time.
2006 – Hof, Germany
September 17-22
The 2006 HRA Reunion was held at the Quality Inn
in Hof/Saale, Germany, September 17-23, 2006. A
special thanks to Robert and Hanna Hoerath, our
German Affairs Representative and his wife whom
coordinated the hotel accommodations, tours,
transportation, guides, dining facilities, and much
more for the 221 members and family members
who made the trip to Hof, Germany.
The Thursday night semi-formal banquet was
outstanding. The 118th Military Airlift Wing of the
Tennessee Air National Guard, led by SMSgt Steve
Williams, went way beyond the presentation of the
Colors. He and his team provided a historical
Registration was on Sunday, September 17 at the
program about our Flags, and what they mean. It
hotel and went very smoothly with the assistance of
was the best presentation of colors our reunion has
board members and their wives, plus Greg and
ever experienced and witnessed. After the
Sandy Krcma. On Monday, the day started with a
presentation, SMSgt Williams led us in the Pledge
briefing in the hotel
of Allegiance.
Chaplain
DINNER
MENU
foyer, followed by a
Francis Fukumoto, assisted by
Beef Rouladen - with red cabbage and Bavarian
reception at the Hof
Tom Bryson and Brent Scott,
dumplings.
Rathaus
with
performed a memorial service
Hunter Schnitzel - with mushroom gravy and homemade
Oberbürgermeister,
Dr.
for our former colleagues with
Spätzle.
Harald Fichtner; then a
Pork Roast - in beer gravy with Sauerkraut and Bavarian
Barry and Sue Springsteen
dumplings.
short walk to Fernweh
providing a memorial plaque
Vegetarian meal - Vegetable Lasagna
Park, Klaus Beer’s sign
honoring them. Mrs. Billie
forest where over 50
Townsend, widow of the late
signs
were
presented
to
Mr.
Beer for posting; then a
Chaplain James Townsend (Hof 1961-64) gave the
trip to the Teddy Bear Museum, and a souvenir
Invocation.
shopping tour by Christa Devine.
We enjoyed a great dinner and some short talks.
The band brought in by Archie Emery, called, “The
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
On Monday evening, the general membership
meeting was called to order by President Jim Riggin
at 5 PM. After opening prayer by association
Chaplain, Francis Fukumoto, introduction of current
Board of Directors by President Riggin, reading of
the 2005 business meeting by Jerry Mangas, and the
treasurer’s report by Nate Sparks, new business was
discussed. Chuck Wilson moved that the association
donate $1500 to the Air Force Enlisted Foundation
and the motion was approved. Nominations for
board of directors and voting were then conducted.
The following personnel were elected as the new
board: President – Don Riverkamp; 1st VP –
Bobby (Stu) Sturdevant; 2nd VP – Chuck Wilson;
Adjutant – Joe Kessler; Secretary – Jerry Mangas;
Treasurer – Nate Sparks; Membership Chairmen –
C. A. Russell; Webmaster – Barry Springsteen; and
Executive Advisor – Jim Riggin. The meeting was
turned over to new president, Don Riverkamp, and
Don gave the members a briefing on plans for the
2007 Reno Reunion. Dick Obidinski gave a
briefing on the sites in contention for the 2008
reunion. Chuck Wilson then provided information
on money exchange, group dinners, bus tours, bus
leaders, and general information concerning the
reunion. The members in attendance than sang
Happy Birthday to Ralph Glover in honor of his
“88th” birthday. Meeting was adjourned and
members turned loose for a night in town.
The following were the tours and destinations
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of reunion
week.
Tuesday was filled with two major tours – one to
Berlin (3 buses) and one to Dresden (1 bus). The
Berlin Tour included entry into the Reichstag. The
Dresden Tour provided insights to the beautiful
town; its culture and heritage.
Wednesday, we loaded four buses and toured
Doebraberg, where the group received a mission
statement briefing from German officer, Lt Ruppert;
next we toured the old Operations Site and then
onto Kingsley Kaserne, now called the General
Hüttner Kaserne. Kommandant Oberst Norbert
Reineke, and briefing officer Kaptain Dieterman
provided an excellent briefing of the current
hofreunion.com
Kaserne mission in the old Chapel. We walked the
Kaserne to visit the old stomping grounds, and then
a wonderful lunch at the chow hall. After lunch, we
headed to Moedlareuth, a small by the old Zonal
Border and Fence. On Wednesday night, group
dinners were held at the Quality Inn, the Falter
Hotel,
and
the
April 1985-Former Kingsley
Metzgerei Herpich.
Kaserne/Hof Air Station is
renamed
by
German
authorities
as
General
Huettner Kaserne, in honor
of
Generalmajor
Hans
Huettner,
who
had
commanded
the
38th
Infantry
Supplemental
(Reserve) Battalion in Hof
in the Autumn of 1935,
before the outbreak of the
Second World War.
On Thursday, four
buses were off to
Kulmbach. The day
started off with a
reception
at
the
Kulmbach
Rathaus
with Bürgermeister,
Henry Schramm; then
up to Plassenburg
Castle; then lunch at the Kulmbacher Sports Café.
After lunch, the next stop was Vierzehnheiligen,
Church of the Fourteen Saints. We returned to Hof
and onto Baron von Waldenfels’ Gasthaus just
outside Hof.
Friday night was the closing banquet at the Hof
Bürgergesellschaft. A wonderful evening of food,
drink, entertainment, memorial services honoring
our lost ones by Francis Fukumoto, Jerry Mangas,
and Dick Obidinski, presentations, and dancing.
Tanya and Traudl Riggin, the Volkstanzgruppe
Lichtenberg, and dance music by Bernd Bahn
provided
entertainment.
Certificates
of
Appreciation were awarded to: Tom Bryson,
Francis Fukumoto, Robert Hoerath, Jerry Mangas,
Phil Murray, Dick Obidinski, Jim Riggin, Don
Riverkamp, C.A. Russell, Nate Sparks, Barry
Springsteen, Bobby (Stu) Sturdevant, and Chuck
Wilson. The MC’s for the evening were Mark
Clemons, Don Riverkamp, and Jim Riggin. The
260 people in attendance had a great time.
On Saturday morning, we had our Auf Wiedersehen
Breakfast at the Quality Hotel; said our thanks and
goodbyes for the wonderful week and fabulous
reunion.
In December 2006, as a result of our $1500
donation to the Air Force Enlisted Foundation, the
Page 7
Hof Reunion Association Official History
Hof Reunion Association was awarded a brick with
its name and website address engraved on it. The
brick was permanently placed on the Encircle Angel
of Hope in the Garden of Hope, Bob Hope Village,
92 Sunset Lane, Shalimar, Florida.
2014
Locations; Report of Nominating Committee for
2008; and the week’s reunion activities. The
business meeting was adjourned at 6:20 PM.
Registration began at 9 AM Monday morning and
lasted until 4 PM for all attending the reunion. The
The 2007 Hof Reunion will be held in Reno,
Hospitality Rooms also opened at 9 AM, Monday
Nevada, at the Eldorado Hotel/Casino, September
morning for all registered attendees and guests to
2-7, 2007. All are looking forward to seeing a great
meet, relax, meet new and old fellow Hofers, and
turnout of members, family, and guests. Look at
have refreshments. At 4 PM, President Don
your 2007 January Hof Connection Newsletter for
Riverkamp called the General Membership Meeting
details and forms. Also remember, visit our website
to order. The meeting kicked off with the Pledge of
www.hofreunion.com for many memories and
Allegiance, and then Don welcomed everyone and
pictures.
introduced the Executive Board and its staff. HRA
Secretary, Jerry Mangas read the minutes of the
2006 Hof General Membership Meeting and they
2007 – Reno, Nevada
September 2-7
were approved as read. HRA Treasurer, Nate
Sparks presented his report on the association’s
The Hof Reunion Association held its 6th annual
financial status and they were approved as read.
reunion at the Eldorado Hotel/Casino in Reno,
The minutes and treasurer’s report were available
Nevada, September 2-7, 2007, with 248 members,
on paper for the membership to read and review.
spouses, and guests in attendance. The following
The chair then entertained a motion to donate
are the events, which took place during the reunion
$1500.00 to the Air Force Enlisted Foundation. It
week.
was so moved and approved by the membership.
Next on the agenda were the
On Sunday afternoon, the HRA
proposed changes to the HRA
HRA MEMBERS ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING
Executive
Board
met
and
ORGANIZATIONS
Constitution and By-Laws. All
conducted their yearly meeting.
members had been provided
6915th USAFSS Squadron/Group 1958-72
President, Don Riverkamp, called
USAFSS Det 5, 6910th 1957-58
proposed changes in the 2007 July
USAFSS Det 2, 6912th 1953-57
the meeting to order at 5 PM. Don
Hof Connection Newsletter, and a
606th AC&W Squadron 1964-74
welcomed all to Reno, took roll
motion was made, seconded, and
Det 1, 602nd AC&W Squadron 1956-64
Det 3, 603rd AC&W Prior to 1956
call, and introduced the invited
approved by the membership to
602nd TCS 1945-46
guests, Bill Ward, Tom Mikloiche,
accept the changes. Therefore,
603rd TCS 1947-48
German Air Force 1961-75
and Phil Murray. All members of
with approval by the membership,
USAF Hospital Support
executive board were present with
two positions were added to the
Communications Squadron AFCS
CIC, CID, OSI, Military Intelligence & ASA units
the exception of C.A. Russell, our
executive board, Hof Connection
U.S. Army Border Patrol Forces 1954-75
Membership
Chairman. Jerry
Editor, and German Affairs
28th Constabulary Squadron 1947-54
US Forces Dependent School System (DOE)
Mangas than read the minutes of
Representative. Prior to the
German National Employees
the meeting conducted in Hof,
election of officers, Chuck Wilson
Citizens Of Hof/Saale
Germany in 2006, and they were
resigned his position on the
Bendix, General Dynamics, General
approved as read. Nate Sparks
Electric, North Electric, Philco, and
Executive Board due to personal
Western Electric
presented the treasurer’s report on
reasons. Election of officers for
HRA financial status, and they
2008 was conducted and the
were reviewed and approved. Approved to present
following are the results and your new Executive
to the membership at our General Membership
Board members: President, Stu Sturdevant; 1st
Meeting were a donation of $1500.00 to the AF
Vice President, Bill Ward; 2nd Vice President, Tom
Enlisted Foundation; changes to the Constitution &
Mikloiche; Adjutant, Joe Kessler; Secretary, Jerry
By-Laws; 2008, 2009, & 2010 Reunion Site
Mangas; Treasurer, Nate Sparks; Membership
hofreunion.com
Page 8
2014
Hof Reunion Association Official History
Chairman, C.A. Russell; Webmaster, Barry
Springsteen; Newsletter Editor, Phil Murray;
German Affairs Representative, Robert Hoerath;
and Don Riverkamp, Executive Board Advisor.
Don turned the meeting over to the new HRA
President, Stu Sturdevant. Stu briefed the
membership on the 2008 Charleston Reunion Site
(which has since been changed to Myrtle Beach, SC
due to cost and hotel availability). President
Sturdevant reported on the sites selected by the
committee for the 2009
For the Ancient Romans,
reunion for vote by
beer was considered a
barbarian drink.
The
membership in the
oldest proof that beer was
2008 January Hof
brewed on German soil,
Connection
comes from around 800 BC
in the early Hallstatt
Newsletter. The sites
Period,
where
beer
were, Green Bay, WI;
amphora found near the
Rapid
City, SD; and
present
day
city
of
Shreveport/Bossier
Kulmbach have been dated
back to this time. {The
City, LA.
(Since
Roman} Tacitus, who first
Reno, one site has been
wrote about the ancient
dropped and two sites
Germans or Teutons, put it
like this: "To drink, the
have been added) On
Teutons have a horrible
the ballot in 2008
brew
fermented
from
January
Newsletter, the
barley or wheat, a brew
which has only a very far
sites for membership to
to
removed
vote
on will be, in
wine".
{However}
alphabetical
order,
ancient Germans regarded
beer not only a sacrifice to
Branson, MO; Green
the gods but they, as in
Bay,
WI;
Egypt, also brewed beer for
Shreveport/Bossier
their
own
enjoyment.
City, LA; and Tunica,
Further, in the Finnish
poetic saga Kalewala, 400
MS). The
changes
verses are devoted to beer
were made and agreed
but only 200 were needed
upon by the executive
for the creation of the
earth. And according to the
board in December
Edda, the great Nordic epic,
after much discussion
wine was reserved for the
and investigation of
gods; beer belonged to
mortals and mead to
sites. The next topic
inhabitants of the realm of
brought up to the
the dead.
membership was to
have a show of hands
for the 2010 Reunion to be held in Hof/Saale,
Germany. A majority of members raised their
hands in approval. Some announcements were
made about the week’s bus tours, buffet luncheon,
banquet dinner, two for one show tickets, and the
hospitality room.
The meeting adjourned at
hofreunion.com
approximately 6 PM.
On Tuesday, September 3rd, 111 of our attendees
went on a tour of Reno and Virginia City, Nevada.
They toured the University of Nevada, downtown
Reno, the Reno Arch, Truckee River, Casinos, and
one park for a photo stop.
They went onto South Reno residential areas, and
large estates in the valley. On the climb up to
Virginia City on Highway 341 they stopped at a
photographic lookout, and then into Virginia City.
They boarded the buses for return trip to the
Eldorado at high noon in order to have some time
before the Tuesday afternoon luncheon buffet and
program. The luncheon buffet program started at
1:30 PM with a welcome, introductions and plans
for the afternoon by the MC of the day, Don
Riverkamp. HRA Chaplain, Francis Fukumoto,
gave the invocation and everyone was off to the
buffet tables for a wonderful spread, and music by
our DJ, The Musicman, Jack Barrett. After lunch,
the program kicked off with Certificate of
Appreciation Awards being presented to the
following personnel: Bob Alekson, Tony Donofrio,
JoAnn Fukumoto, Hanna Hoerath, Greg & Sandy
Krcma, Pat Mangas, Jerry & Hilde Middendorf,
Tom & Inga Mikloiche, Evi Obidinski, Traudl
Riggin, Tanja Riggin Smith, Ute Sparks, Sue
Springsteen, Marcey Sturdevant, and Monika
Wilson. We had a live auction conducted by Andy
Brads, door prizes drawings for gifts donated by the
members, and some show and dinner tickets from
the Eldorado Hotel/Casino, Harrah’s Hotel/Casino,
and the Silver Legacy Hotel/Casino, plus loads of
socializing, some singing and dancing with our new
and old acquaintances. The festivities ended at 6
PM and all in attendance had a super time. Tuesday
evening was free for whatever activities our
members preferred.
On Wednesday, 135 of our members loaded onto
three buses for an all day tour of Emerald Bay, Lake
Tahoe, and Carson City. We started off by going to
historic Truckee, California, then onto the Olympic
Village at Squaw Valley. Upon leaving Squaw
Valley, we went to Fanny Bridge, and then
proceeded onto the West Shore of Lake Tahoe, had
Page 9
2014
Hof Reunion Association Official History
a photo stop at Emerald Bay Vista Point and then to
Stateline, South Lake Tahoe where we had three
hours of free time for lunch, shopping, sightseeing,
and/or gambling. Then it was unto the capital of
Nevada, Carson City. We toured the Historic
District and drove by the Governor’s Mansion.
This was a great trip and everyone seemed to
thoroughly enjoy the day. Returned to the Eldorado
at 5 PM, and that evening, many of our personnel
took in the show, “The Dancing Queens”, at the
Eldorado Showroom.
Thursday, during the day, was a free day for
members to partake in whatever their hearts desired
and be rested for the evening Banquet Dinner
Program. The doors opened at 5:30 PM for some
socializing and cash bar cocktails.
Hotel/Casino provided an open complimentary
happy hour from 8 PM to 9 PM. Jack Barrett, “The
Music Doctor”, provided dance music and fun from
8 to 11 PM. ALL HAD A WONDERFUL TIME!
The Eldorado Hotel/Casino provided an open
complimentary happy hour from 8 PM to 9 PM.
Jack Barrett, “The Music Doctor”, provided dance
music and fun from 8 to 11 PM. ALL HAD A
WONDERFUL TIME!
Friday morning, small groups got together for
breakfast and saying their good-byes until next year.
See everyone, and some new members in Myrtle
Beach, South Carolina, October 5-10th, 2008.
2008 – Myrtle Beach, South Caroline
October 5-10
The Impossible Dream
To dream the
impossible
dream,
To fight the
unbeatable
foe,
To bear with
unbearable
sorrow,
To run where
the brave dare
not go.
And I know, if
I’ll only be
true,
To this glories
quest,
That my heart
will lie
peaceful and
calm,
When I’m laid
to my rest.
To right the
unrightable
wrong,
To love pure and
chase from afar,
To try when your
arms are too
weary,
To reach the
unreachable
star!
And the world
will be better
for this;
That one man,
scorned and
covered with
scars,
Still strove with
his last ounce
of courage,
To reach the
unreachable
stars.
This is my quest, to follow that star,
No matter how hopeless, no matter how far;
To fight for the right without question or pause,
To be willing to march into hell for a heavenly cause!
Don Riverkamp, MC for the evening started the
evening activities at 6 PM, with the introduction of
our guests for the evening. The posting of colors by
the Nevada Air National Guard Honor Guard was
next, followed by the singing of the US National
Anthem, followed by the German National Anthem
by Traudl Riggin. Our HRA Chaplain, Francis
Fukumoto then gave the invocation. Dinner
followed. Francis Fukumoto conducted memorial
Services for passed members, and ladies serving in
Heaven, with assistance from Stu Sturdevant, Bill
Ward, and Joey Trujillo at 7:30 PM. At 7:45 PM,
Don made some announcements, gave thanks to
everyone. Stu Sturdevant and Nate Sparks
conducted the 50/50 raffle drawing. The Eldorado
hofreunion.com
A REUNION OF FIRSTS!
Reunion Coordinators – Bobby J. (Stu) & Marcey
Sturdevant
This was billed as our First Oktoberfest Theme
Reunion. It started as a thought in our President,
Stu Sturdevant’s mind, and he canvassed the
Executive Board, his Presidential Cabinet, to get
their input. Everyone felt that it was a great idea.
Each year the Reunion Committee tries very hard to
find a suitable site and produce a reunion
extravaganza better than the previous one. The
compliments and kudos received from attendees
were in such abundance, we believe the committee
accomplished their mission with great success.
Thanks go out to Phil Murray and Jerry Mangas for
the excellent advertising to build the idea of an
Oktoberfest in everyone’s mind. Thanks the team
of Jerry Mangas and CA Russell and their wives,
Pat and Jodie, for discovering the Landmark Resort
Hotel in the first place. Thanks to Pat Emmons,
Sales Manager, at the Landmark, who assured Jerry
and CA, we would have a great time at her hotel.
Pat and her team of workers came through with
flying colors. Every request was delivered in
“Aces”. Her team comprised of Janice Williams, in
charge of Catering; Risa Garris in charge of
waiters/waitresses and setup; and last by no means
Page 10
Hof Reunion Association Official History
least, Pat’s right hand, her super secretary, Rosita
Domingoes. Risa also provided us with a Special
Assistant, Malcolm Richardson, who had the
answers to all our concerns and/or problems. And a
special thanks to 330 souls that braved “high gas
prices”, dodging hundreds of motorcycles (we
arrived during “Bike Week”), to arrive at the
Landmark Resort. The hotel was located right on
the beach, with 14 swimming pools, and beautiful
views from our balcony rooms. The Oktoberfest
Theme Reunion was scheduled from October 5-10;
however, many arrived early due to the low hotel
rate. The weather was absolutely gorgeous, and
Jerry Mangas said he couldn’t understand this
because “tradition” was if Charlie Trick was on
break it was supposed to rain, it didn’t, until late
Thursday night. We would be remiss if we didn’t
mention Bill Toni, and all those golfers that enjoyed
the beautiful weather. They assured us they had a
great time trying to psych each other out on the
course. You couldn’t have asked for better golf
weather. Thanks go out to the vast number of
people who showed up in German outfits, which set
the stage for a great atmosphere. We know many
were borrowed, handmade, purchased at estate
sales, or during our 2006 reunion at Hof, but all
looked Schoen! Tom Mikloiche, Joe Kessler and
Don Riverkamp played very important parts in
setting the stage for our reunion. Tom was able to
locate an outlet for quality bier mugs at reasonable
prices. Tom and Joe came up with the logo for the
mugs. Don Riverkamp did a super job with the
design for the reunion tee shirts and hat pins at
prices we could afford. We can’t forget CA for
locating a source of high quality bier. One was
brewed in Downingtown PA, named Prima Pills,
and it lived up to its’ name. Then there was the
EKU 28 imp Fuss. Joe Kessler and his abilities on
his computer, who tracked all our registrations,
money, designed and printed everything from
registration forms, to meal tickets, nametags, show
and tour tickets, bus rosters—EVERYTHING! We
cannot forget the large number of members that
donated high quality door prizes and auction items
and of course the guardians of these treasures, Jerry
Middendorf and Tom Mikloiche. Tom also filled in
this year as auctioneer, and we raised $979.00 to
replenish our treasury. Next, we need to mention
hofreunion.com
2014
Stu’s wife, Marcey, and Pat Emmons, for
negotiating with show, and bus companies to
receive outstanding military, and group discounts
for shows and tours.
The reunion kicked off on Sunday, at 1700, with the
Executive Board meeting, with all members present.
Also in attendance were this year’s Sergeant-AtArms, Jerry Middendorf and Greg Krcma; our
publisher, Dave Sallinger, who brought the latest
Master Roster for each member in attendance;
Peggy Adams, Marcey Sturdevant, and Jim Riggin.
Business Items, for the General Membership
meeting, were reviewed, and the meeting adjourned
at 1845.
There are many reasons the Hof Reunion
Association is successful, communication. Keeping
in touch is the most important. If your home
address, telephone number or internet service
Hof
changes, please
Hamill,
melvinhamill@yahoo.com or Secretary Don
Riverkamp, don.hofsecretary@sbcglobal.net. We
have a chance of losing touch and we don't want
that to happen. It will ensure you receive the Hof
Weekly Updates, Hof Connection Newsletter, and all
other updates and contacts.
Registration opened at 0900 Monday in the
Hospitality Suite. Led by our Adjutant, Joe Kessler,
dressed in full German Costume, and Dolores, his
wife, in her German Dirndl; our wonderful group of
volunteers, most in costumes, worked the
registration tables. Joe’s crew had almost 330
members and guests receiving registration bags by
noon. Danny Sandifer photographed all members,
and guests for our records. Tom Mikloiche was in
charge of the Hospitality Suite. His team of
volunteers kept the tables well supplied with snacks,
fresh coffee, juices, sweet rolls, and last but not
least various brands of exotic biers from all over the
world. Hospitality Suite opened with registration,
and allowed everyone to relax, meet new, and ole
Hofers, and have refreshments. Ute Sparks had the
HRA photo albums for everyone to view, and many
other members brought photo albums for everyone
to enjoy.
Page 11
Hof Reunion Association Official History
At 1600, Monday, October 6th, President
Sturdevant called the General Membership Meeting
to order. He started with the Pledge of Allegiance,
a welcome, and introduction of the Executive
Board/Staff. Secretary, Jerry Mangas read the 2007
General Membership Meeting minutes from Reno.
They were approved as read. Treasurer, Nate
Sparks presented his report on the financial status,
and it was approved as read. The minutes and
financial report were made available for all to
review, prior to the meeting. The chair entertained
a motion to donate $2,000 to the Air Force Enlisted
Foundation. It was moved, seconded and approved
by the membership. Next, were the proposed
changes to the HRA Constitution and By-Laws. A
committee, led by 1st Vice President Bill Ward; 2nd
VP Tom Mikloiche; and
606th Aircraft Control &
Joe
Kessler Adjutant;
Warning Squadron Jan
1964 - Jul 1974
thoroughly examined the
Constitution & By-Laws
In January 1964
the
to eliminated conflicting
606th was assigned to
Doebraberg,
Germany
terminology, improve the
Hof).
Upon
(near
readability,
and
activation,
the
unit
absorbed the men and
composed
a
list
of
equipment of Detachment
changes
published
in
the
2, 602nd Aircraft Control
and Warning Squadron.
2008
July
Hof
The squadron's primary
Connection
Newsletter.
responsibility
as
a
reporting post was to
The publishing fulfilled
identify and track all
the requirement for all
aircraft approaching the
West
German—East
members to have the
German
and
proposed changes at least
Czechoslovakian—West
German borders and
two weeks before the
forward
information
annual
membership
relating to these tracks to
the control center. A
meeting, in order to vote
secondary responsibility
on the changes. A motion
included functioning as a
backup unit for corridor
was made, seconded, and
control for the southern
approved
by
the
air corridor into West
membership to accept the
Berlin.
changes. A certified copy
of the HRA Constitution and Bylaws, signed
October 6th, 2008, by President Bobby Sturdevant,
and Secretary, Jerry Mangas, with raised seal &
signature of Adjutant Joseph J. Kessler Sr., is in the
hands of all 2009 Executive Board Members.
Election of Executive Officers for 2009 was held
with the following results: President, Bill Ward; 1st
Vice President; Tom Mikloiche; 2nd Vice
hofreunion.com
2014
President, Greg Krcma; Adjutant, Joe Kessler;
Secretary, Don Riverkamp; Treasurer, Nate Sparks;
Membership Chairman C.A. Russell; Webmaster,
Barry Springsteen; Newsletter Editor, Phil Murray;
German Affairs Representative, Robert Hoerath;
and Executive Board Advisor, Stu Sturdevant. Bill
Ward briefed the membership on the 2009 Branson
reunion. Bill & Edie Ward and Don Riverkamp
visited Branson in July. A contract with the
Radisson Hotel was signed. Tom Mikloiche led a
discussion concerning the economics of going back
to Hof in 2010 based upon the present exchange
rate of the Euro, car rental fees, gas prices, and
hotel rates, etc. Tom also represented Robert
Hoerath, our German Affairs Representative who
was in attendance. After a lengthy discussion, the
membership voted to go with a location in the
United States for 2010, with specific cities to be
determined, and advertised in our 2009 January
Newsletter. Robert Hoerath presented the Hof
Reunion Association a $265 donation collected
from Hof businesses, and friends in Germany. The
meeting was adjourned at approximately 18:20.
Monday evening, 120 members attended the
Carolina Opry for a rip-roaring performance. They
didn’t have Little Jimmy Dickens, like the Nashville
Grand Ole Opry, but the cast was loaded with great
talent, and all enjoyed the performance.
Tuesday morning was spent shopping, walking on
the beach, visiting with friends in the Hospitality
Suite, and signing up for reserved tables for the
banquet. Don Riverkamp, with the help of Helen
Toni and Joe Kessler’s great seating chart, all
members signed up and received their table
assignments for Thursday evening banquet. At
1230, on Tuesday, the doors opened for our annual
luncheon buffet, and program. Once all were
seated, Stu Sturdevant prayed for all our Troops in
Harm’s Way, led everyone in the Pledge of
Allegiance, gave the invocation and ordered
everyone to eat heartily. The food was scrumptious
and the chef was hard pressed to keep the German
Potato Salad bowls filled.
For the 1st time, a dependent daughter spoke at our
buffet. The daughter reduced the audience to tears,
Page 12
Hof Reunion Association Official History
and received a standing ovation for her short talk.
She had to make her, off-the-cuff notes, on the back
of a baggage claim ticket. Her prepared talk arrived
the next day with her luggage; that’s how we met
the Cyrptodude’s daughter Suzanne Garza Dernoga.
Her speech, “Why her Dad couldn’t tell her what he
did in his job, like other kids that had cooks, cops,
fireman, and medics, as fathers”. She now
understands how people like her Dad, helped our
country win the “Cold War”. What a tribute!
Next, door prize drawings and a live auction with
auctioneer Tom Mikloiche, filling in for Andy
Brads, who was absent. The auction was lively, and
bidding was furious. After the dust settled, we
netted $979 for our treasury. Then, our
entertainment, lead off with Helen Toni singing her
hilarious rendition of “These Are A Few Of My
Favorite Things”, with a lot of head nodding
agreement, and applause. Her song was followed
by another first. It was the 1st time this group
appeared in the United States. They used to appear
nightly in the 60’s, in Hof, at hotspots like Jakes,
Ranch Bar, Traubel, and the Schoenblick. A
resounding round of applause, welcomed the “Dorf
Dorks” with Tom Mikloiche, vocalist and
choreographer, leading their performance of the
“Burger Dance”. After several rounds of Boos &
Laughter, the Lady “Dorkettes“ were brought on
stage to add some class and the rest is history. The
remainder of the afternoon was devoted to visiting,
dancing, admiring each other’s German outfits, and
generally having a great time. There were many
Kodak moments which will last a lifetime. That
evening 115 members, and guests boarded buses to
attend the evening performance of the Grand Le
Cirque, a show so mind-boggling, it was impossible
to see all the talented acrobatic acts, on stage and
above our heads. Everyone truly enjoyed the show.
Wednesday morning, after a quick cup of coffee or
juice, and a snack in the Hospitality Suite, 160
members boarded four buses for departure to
Brookgreen Gardens, and ole historic Georgetown.
Talk about Kodak moments, the whole day was
filled with them. The weather was gorgeous, and
eating along the waterfront at Georgetown was so
relaxing, no one wanted to board the buses for the
hofreunion.com
2014
return trip to the Landmark Resort. Wednesday
evening, four groups departed the hotel for Group
Dinners. CA Russell, and his bunch from Charley
Trick; Jim Riggin, and his group from 602/606;
Peggy Adams, and her menagerie of Cops, Cooks,
Medics, Motor Pool and an assortment of others;
and finally that Long Tall Alaskan, Claude Niebuhr,
with his pick-up team, all departed the hotel for
different destinations. When all returned that night,
each vowed that their group had had the most fun.
Thanks to the four Group Dinner Leaders and their
negotiating ability to get such great dinner prices.
Thursday found members relaxing, and conserving
their energy for the evening’s banquet. Banquet
doors, guarded by our trusty Sergeant-At-Arms,
Jerry Middendorf and Greg Krcma, were opened at
1730. At 1800 another 1st occurred: We had a
non-traditional Flag Detail and Honor Guards,
CMSgt Mel Hamill, in uniform, carried the US
Flag, represented all US Air Force ever assigned to
Hof; Robert Hoerath carried the German Flag, and
represented all German military assigned to Hof;
Green Beret Command Sargent Major Gary Queen,
in uniform, represented all US Army; Ms. Peggy
Adams represented US dependent wives, and US
government employees; Mrs. Ilse Hamill,
represented German wives, married to US military;
finally, USMC Reserve, Major Steve Brock,
represented all US dependent children living in the
Hof . We then sang the American and German
National Anthems, led by Traudl Riggin. Francis
Fukumoto, our Chaplain, led the Memorial Service
with Gary Queen, Peggy Adams, Ilse Hamill, and
Steve Brock, reading the names of our comrades
who were added to the Final Fly-By and Ladies
Serving in Heaven. Joe Trujillo, our Native
American, dressed in his Indian Ceremonial dress,
struck his drum with the reading of each name. A
red rose was placed in a vase after each list was
read. The military honored the fallen with a handsalute, a truly touching tribute to honor our departed
friends. Francis gave the invocation. Dinner was
served. After dinner, another 1st, and highlight of
the evening occurred. Stu called Charlie Jackson,
and his unsuspecting fiancée Tesa Molyneyx to the
podium. Charlie struck a pose, and on bended knee,
proposed to Tesa, in front of 328 witnesses, she
Page 13
Hof Reunion Association Official History
ACCEPTED! After Tesa accepted Charlie’s
proposal, the DJ stepped forwarded, and we all
proceeded to shine up our belt buckles with music
from the 50s, 60s and German music, to
compliment the large number of attendees in full
German outfits. The 50/50 raffle drawing was
conducted with $631 being presented to three
winners, and the HRA Treasury benefited the other
$631. Everyone brought out their cameras to
capture group and individual pictures.
Friday morning brought about some sadness when
everyone gathered at the Auf Wiedersehen
Breakfast, for one last “war story” and a sad
goodbye, until we meet again in Branson for the
continuing saga of the “Hofers 2009”! A Hugh
THANKS to everyone who helped make this a very
memorable reunion. We hope to see a great turnout
at the Radisson Hotel, in Branson, Missouri
September 1-6, 2009 for the 2009 HRA Reunion.
2009 – Branson, Missouri
September 1-6
Theme “REMEMBER WHEN THEME”
REUNION COORDINATORS – Bill & Edie Ward
and Don Riverkamp
The 2009 HRA Reunion was held at the Radisson
Hotel in Branson, Missouri from September 1-6,
2009. The reunion kicked off on Tuesday, at 1700,
with the Executive Board meeting, with all
members present, except C.A. Russell, and Nate
Sparks. Also in attendance at the meeting were
potential future board members Mel Hamill, Jim
Riggin and Phil Ruth.
Don Riverkamp discussed the minutes of the board
meeting held in 2008 at Myrtle Beach, and then
read the minutes of the General Membership
Meeting from 2008 Myrtle Beach Reunion. Phil
Murray handed out Nate’s Treasurer Report which
Nate had sent to him since he knew his plane would
not arrive in time for the Executive Board meeting.
The report was reviewed by members in attendance,
and there were no questions at the time, and it was
decided that if any would arise, Nate would explain
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2014
at the General Membership Meeting on Wednesday,
September 2, 2009.
Bill Ward discussed the HRA dollar amount
contribution to be made to the AF Enlisted
Foundation for 2009. A motion was made by Don
Riverkamp to donate the amount of $2,000.00 and it
was 2nd by Tom Mikloiche.
The next topic brought up was the concern by Greg
Krcma and Tom Mikloiche of possible liability
insurance for our future five-day association
reunions. Greg had checked, and found one
company would write a policy for 2 Million for a
cost of $449 for a five-day event. After much
discussion, Bill Ward appointed a committee
consisting of Greg Krcma, Tom Mikloiche, and Joe
Kessler to look into the cost and possibility of
purchasing such an event insurance policy for 2010
Ogden Reunion, and future reunions.
Bill opened the floor for discussion on member
numbers, reunion attendance, etc. Don Riverkamp
stated that we were still over 500 active members,
and many were getting up there in age, had other
interests, and this year the economy did not help,
plus many illnesses and family commitments. Stu
Sturdevant stated he thought we were doing the
right things and used the example of 330 members
and spouses attending the 2008 Myrtle Beach
Reunion. General consensuses of the board was the
association was in great shape, membership wise,
and financially.
Joe Kessler talked about the reunion program
booklet he has made for the past two reunions, and
ask it be passed along for all members to please
read the booklet, and he will add a page for the
members to be able to write suggestions on “What
can be done to improve membership and/or
reunions”. Jo also talked about having all members
have photos taken during registration. It was also
suggested more articles on History and Happenings
in and about the Hof/Saale Region of Germany.
Bill Ward read and discussed the proposed change
to the By-Laws, which the board had already agreed
upon, was published in the 2009 July Newsletter,
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
and would be brought forward at the General
Membership Meeting for our membership approval
or disapproval.
Tom Mikloiche presented information for the 2010
HRA Reunion in Ogden and got approval to go
forward with the Marriott Hotel in Ogden for
September 6-11, 2010. Greg Krcma presented the
names the nominating committee selected to
recommend to general membership for the new
executive board, Jim Riggin, 2nd Vice President;
Mel Hamill, Treasurer; and Phil Ruth, Membership
Chairman. Greg Krcma presented the site names
for the 2011 HRA Reunion the site selection
committee had agreed upon. The sites will go on
the Ballot in the 2010 January Hof Connection
Newsletter are: Hof, Germany; Appleton/Fox
Cities, WI; Cocoa Beach, FL; and Virginia
Beach/Norfolk, VA. Meeting adjourned at 6:25
PM.
On Wednesday morning, the Hospitality Room
opened at 9 AM and at the same time, Registration
was held. 206 attending members, spouses, and
guests all received their packages, name tags,
schedule of events, meal tickets, tour tickets, hats,
shirts, gift of special HRA/Branson Reunion handdecorated goose egg ornament, and had their photos
taken by Gary Cherpes. At 4 PM on Wednesday,
the General Membership Meeting was held.
President Bill Ward called the meeting to order at
4:03 PM. The meeting began with the Pledge of
Allegiance, led by President Ward, and a Welcome
to all members/spouses. President Ward introduced
Branson’s Honorable Mayor Raeanne Presley.
Mayor Presley welcomed and thanked our
association for choosing Branson as our 2009
reunion destination. She proceeded to inform our
members/spouses in attendance about the City of
Branson, population 7,500, however, with
approximately 8 million visitors per year. She also
informed us Branson has total respect and many
thanks for all Veterans, and is very proud how her
city welcomes & honors all veterans.
The introduction of Executive Board
Bill Ward – President
Tom Mikloiche – 1st Vice President
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2014
Greg Krcma – 2nd Vice President
Joe Kessler - Adjutant
Don Riverkamp – Secretary
Nate Sparks – Treasurer (Absent)
C.A. Russell – Membership Chairman (Absent)
Jerry Mangas – Webmaster
Phil Murray - Newsletter Editor
Robert Hoerath – German Representative
Stu Sturdevant – Executive Board Advisor
Staff Members
Chaplain – Francis Fukumoto
Sergeants-at-Arms – Roger Gentilini and Walt
Murch
HRA Secretary, Don Riverkamp, apologized for
leaving copies of the 2008 Myrtle Beach Reunion in
his hotel room, and informed everyone they would
be available for pickup in the Hospitality Room the
rest of the reunion. Don proceeded to read the
minutes from the 2008 General Membership
Meeting in Myrtle Beach. Tony Cameron made
motion to accept minutes as read; 2nd by Harry
Rupprecht, motion passed.
Treasurer, Nate Sparks, handed out the Treasurer’s
Financial Report to all members. The report had all
information through August 31, 2009 and we had a
Bank Balance of $43,969.45. Nate indicated the
amount would be much lower, around $25K-$26K,
after the 2009 HRA Reunion expenses were paid.
He noted the association is in very excellent shape.
John Pace motioned to accept Treasurer’s Report,
2nd by George Fahrbach, motion passed.
President Bill Ward informed attendees the
Executive Board had suggested and approved that
the membership vote on approving a donation of
$2K to the Air Force Enlisted Foundation. Carl
Davino made a motion for approval of that amount,
and Russ Vandermartin, 2nd the motion, motion
passed.
1st Vice President, Tom Mikloiche, presented
information on the site for the HRA 2010 Reunion.
The reunion will be held at the Marriott Hotel in
Ogden, Utah, from September 6-11, 2010. Mik
informed those in attendance the rooms would be
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
$74 per night, and the hotel had just been
completely remodeled in 2008. Talked about the
Hill AFB Museum, Golden Spike
Railroad
Museum, Mormon Tabernacle Tour in Salt Lake
City and Ogden is Hof’s Sister City in the USA.
Joe Kessler talked about individual/couple photos
were taken in the registration room, and asked
everyone who had not had their picture(s) taken to
please get them taken in the Hospitality Room or at
the luncheon on Thursday. Joe also talked about the
registration forms and how he is continuing to
improve on them, and will also make a separate
sheet for Site Voting Ballot, in order that it can be
mailed in earlier without having to mess with the
registration form.
President Ward read and discussed the proposed
change to the By-Laws, which the Executive Board
had agreed upon, and published in the 2009 July
Newsletter.
Article 1 – Membership – Paragraph 1 - Proposal to
be changed to the following:
“Membership shall be confirmed and accepted by
duly elected officers of the Association. Members
shall in the opinion of the Executive Board, have
served as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces,
Contractor, Civil Service, German Air Force or had
a Hof Connection (Spouse, Ex-Spouse, Widow,
Dependent) with Security or Defense Forces
assigned to Hof Air Station, Kingsley Kaserne, or
Doebraberg, during the ‘Cold War Era’ or between
1948 and 1975.”
After some brief discussion, a motion was made by
Tony Cameron to accept the changes as published
in the July Newsletter, and was 2nd by Jerry
Middendorf and motion was approved & passed by
membership.
2nd Vice President, Greg Krcma, informed the
membership in attendance of the names his
nominating committee came up with for the New
HRA Executive Board. They were – Jim Riggin for
2nd VP, Joe Kessler for Adjutant, Don Riverkamp
for Secretary, Mel Hamill for Treasurer, Phil Ruth
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2014
for Membership Chairman, Jerry Mangas for
Webmaster, Phil Murray for Newsletter Editor, and
Robert Hoerath for German Affairs Representative.
President Bill Ward announced Tom Mikloiche
would automatically move up to the position of
President, and Greg Krcma would automatically
move up to 1st VP, and Bill Ward would assume
the position of Executive Board Advisor for one
year. These actions are per the HRA Constitution
and By-Laws. Bill acknowledged and thanked Nate
Sparks, C.A. Russell, Barry Springsteen, and Stu
Sturdevant for all their years of service on the
executive board, and as an active member in the
HRA.
Next on the agenda was the election of the New
Executive Board Members who will serve on the
board from the end of the 2009 Branson Reunion
until the end of the 2010 Ogden Reunion.
President - Thomas ‘Mick’ Mikloiche
1st Vice President - Greg Krcma
Executive Board Advisor - Bill Ward
Bill proceeded to conduct the election of executive
board members via the Robert’s Rule and in order
of ranking per the Constitution and Bylaws.
Jim Riggin for 2nd Vice President – George
Fahrbach made motion nominations be closed, 2nd
by John Pace, approved by vote.
Joe Kessler for Adjutant – Dave Natalie moved
nomination be closed, 2nd by Bill Combs, approved
by vote.
Don Riverkamp for Secretary – Jim Riggin moved
nominations be closed, 2nd by Russ Vandermartin,
approved by vote.
Mel Hamill for Treasurer – Russ Vandermartin
moved that nominations be closed, 2nd by Jerry
Middendorf, approved by vote.
Phil Ruth for Membership Chairman – Ray
Szyperski moved nominations be closed, 2nd by
Dave Natalie, approved by vote.
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Jerry Mangas for Webmaster – Claude Niebuhr
moved nominations be closed, 2nd by John Pace,
approved by vote.
Phil Murray for Newsletter Editor – Phyllis Phipps
moved nominations be closed, 2nd by Bill Combs,
approved by vote.
Robert Hoerath for German Affairs Representative
– Harry Rupprecht moved nominations be closed,
2nd by Rosie Queen, approved by vote.
The Executive Board for the HRA through the 2010
Ogden Reunion is:
Tom Mikloiche, President; Greg Krcma, 1st VP;
Jim Riggin, 2nd VP; Joe Kessler, Adjutant; Don
Riverkamp, Secretary; Mel Hamill, Treasurer;
Membership Chairman, Phil Ruth; Jerry Mangas,
Webmaster; Phil Murray, Newsletter Editor; Robert
Hoerath, German Affairs Representative; Bill Ward,
Executive Board Advisor.
Brent Scott stood and was recognized by President
Ward. Brent gave THANKS to Chuck Wilson,
Nate Sparks, C.A. Russell, Bruce Springsteen, and
Stu Sturdevant for their great service to the HRA
Association.
Bill Ward talked about the concern some of our
members might have about drop in numbers of
active members, and attendance at reunions. Some
suggestions coming from the membership are as
follows:
 Mel Hamill suggests that we advertise in the
VFW Magazine about our association and
therefore may locate some more members that
are still missing.
 Harry Rupprecht stated that we are all getting
older, illnesses, some unable to travel, and he
had not seen that much of a drop-off, and still
see a great turnout.
 Steve Murphrey suggests each and every one
look at the roster, and when you see a name you
recognize or was/is a friend, to give them a call
to draw interest again in becoming an active
HRA member.
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
Bob Cruise suggested when we find a New
Find, contact them, maybe offer a Free 1 Year
Membership, with copy of Weekly Updates, and
Semi-Annual Newsletter Mailing. Also have
Parents try to get dependents to join the
association.
Barbara Davino, wife of member Carl Davino, was
recognized
by President
Ward.
Barbara,
‘Complimented and Praised’, the Executive Board
for the great job they have been doing, and are still
doing for the association and all the reunions.
2nd VP Greg Krcma, 2011 Site Selection Chairman,
presented the four locations that will be on the
ballot for membership voting in the 2010 January
Newsletter. Sites:
Hof, Germany
Appleton/Fox Cities, Wisconsin
Cocoa Beach, Florida
Virginia Beach/Norfolk, Virginia
Robert Hoerath explained how much time he needs
for planning Hof in 2011, if selected by the
membership, and therefore moved the voting
deadline up in the 2010 January Newsletter, and
also have the Ballot a separate sheet so you can mail
it in early without having to mail the registration
form in too early. This will also give us more time
if a stateside location is chosen to negotiate with
hotels, etc.
A motion to move the Ballot Voting to 1 April for
all future site voting was made by Carl Davino, 2nd
by Steve Murphrey, passed by membership.
The Membership meeting was adjourned 5:27 PM.
Wednesday evening was set-aside for Group
Dinners. There were four locations the different
groups went to with their fellow Hofers, the
Altenhof Inn, Andy Williams Moon River Grill,
Lone Star Steak House, and Whitefish River
Restaurant at Branson Landing.
Thursday morning, the men got together for a
“Frueh Schoppen” in the hospitality room from 11
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
to Noon. The Buffet Luncheon program was 12:30
to 6 PM. The Buffet Luncheon Program was held
for all in attendance. It was a wonderful buffet with
entertainment by local DJ Matt Duncan, live
auction, door prize drawings, plaques presented to
Radisson Hotel, and Debbie Chesnokov of the
Branson CVB, Certificate of Appreciation to Nate
Sparks for his years of service as Treasurer of the
HRA, dancing, photos, and reminiscing, and
storytelling with ole and new friends. Thursday
evening was free for members to relax, take in a
show, shopping, or get together to talk about ole
times, and new things going on in the world.
Friday was tour and show day. Around 50 left at 8
AM for the Branson Scenic Railway Tour, and
10:30 AM, another 115 loaded onto the buses and
went out to Round Top Lake and a luncheon/show
cruise on the Branson Belle. All were back at the
hotel by 3PM, and the Ladies got together for a
“Kaffee Stunde” from 4 to 5 PM. At 6:45 PM, the
buses picked up 137 of our members, and
proceeded to the Baldknobbers Show. All were
back at the Radisson around 11 PM. Great Day!
Saturday morning and afternoon were open for
members to do anything they liked in Branson, tour
the city, take in a show or two, shop, relax in the
Hospitality Room, or take a walk. At 5:30 PM,
doors opened for the Banquet Dinner Program with
our Sergeants at Arms, Roger Gentilini and Walt
Murch guarding the doors. At 6 PM, Peggy Adams,
Mel Hamill, Robert Hoerath, and Joey Trujillo
conducted the posting of the Colors. HRA Chaplain
Francis Fukumoto did the invocation, and Traudl
Riggin performed the singing of both the German
and American Anthems. President Bill Ward also
explained the Table-of-Honor had one place setting,
and a Rose in front for our beloved first HRA
President Tom Bryson, who passed away just before
the Branson Reunion.
Dinner was served with background music by our
local DJ Matt Duncan and his wife. At 7:45 PM,
Chaplain Fukumoto, with the assistance of Joey
Trujillo, Peggy Adams, and Phyllis Phipps
conducted the Memorial Services for our missing
comrades. It was a beautiful ceremony. The rest of
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the evening, until 11 PM, there was plenty of
dancing and laughter. All in attendance has a great
time.
On Sunday morning, the hospitality room opened at
8AM for saying our goodbyes, and hoping we all
can get together again in 2010 in Hof’s Sister City
of Ogden, Utah, September 6-11th, 2010. See you
in Ogden!
Our utmost gratitude, and appreciation, goes out to
ALL the board members, HRA members, and
spouses, that contributed in assisting and helping
the association during registration, in the hospitality
room, and attending our 2009 Branson Reunion.
2010 HRA REUNION WILL BE AT THE OGDEN
MARRIOTT HOTEL IN HOF’S SISTER CITY OF
OGDEN, UTAH SEPTEMBER 6–11, 2010.
2010 Ogden, Utah
September 6-11
HRA Celebrates in Hof's Sister City.
Ogden Reunion Co-coordinators – Tom & Inga
Mikloiche and Don Riverkamp
During the week of September 6th, 2010 - 144 of
our members, spouses, friends and family
descended on the beautiful city of Ogden, Utah and
the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. Many of these
people had never been to the Ogden area or Utah.
The area and its people certainly made a fine
impression on every one. As each checked into the
Marriott, a member of the Marriott’s incredible staff
answered every question asked and attended to all
needs in a friendly and professional manner not
seen before. Early arrivals were also provided
coupons identifying them as HRA members and
giving them all the discounts negotiated for the
week.
The Executive Board held its annual meeting on
Monday and went over the minutes from last year’s
meeting, discussed and accepted the Treasurers
Report, accepted the new E-Board member’s
nominations and suggested the annual contribution
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
of $2000 to the AF Enlisted Foundation be
presented to the Membership at Tuesday’s meeting.
We also discussed how we could increase our
membership rolls and the site selection committee
gave us the choices to be presented for the 2012
Reunion. Greg Krcma gave us the information he
had available for the 2011 Reunion which was to be
held in Appleton but was eventually moved to
Green Bay due to a much better deal from the Hotel
involved.
Bright and early Tuesday morning the Hospitality
Room was opened to welcome the people
registering. All registrants were given the items
ordered, such as shirts, tour tickets, commemorative
2010 Reunion Pin, and a booklet designed by our
Secretary Don Riverkamp which contained the full
weeks schedule, a copy of City of Ogden
Proclamation, welcome letters from the HRA
President, Ogden CVB, Marriott Hotel Camp
Commander, and lots of other useful information.
The volunteers in the Hospitality Room were kept
as busy as bees keeping the refreshments flowing
the rest of the day as members sat around and talked
about the GOOD OLD DAYS in Hof.
The General Membership meeting was held from
1600 to 1730. The HRA was honored by Ogden
Mayor Godfrey, who welcomed us to Ogden and
issued an Official Proclamation declaring the week
of September 6-10 Hof Reunion Association Week.
The Proclamation was accepted by President
Mikloiche and given to HRA German Affairs
Representative Robert Hoerath in order Robert
presents it to the City of Hof's Mayor, for inclusion
in their archives.
The following attending members of the E-Board
were introduced - President: Tom Mikloiche, 1st
Vice President Greg Krcma, 2nd Vice President Jim
Riggin, Secretary Don Riverkamp, Treasurer Mel
Hamill, Membership Chairman Phil Ruth,
Webmaster Jerry Mangas, Newsletter Editor Phil
Murray, German Representative Robert Hoerath
and our Staff Members Francis Fukumoto our
Chaplain and our Sergeants at Arms, Roger
Gentilini and Walt Murch. Our Executive Board
advisor, Bill Ward, was not in attendance due to the
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2014
upcoming birth of his granddaughter and as many of
you know our "BELOVED” Adjutant Joe Kessler
passed away May 26th 2010, his duties through the
Ogden reunion were split between Don Riverkamp
and Mel Hamill.
The candidates for the open offices were introduced
and President Mikloiche asked if there were any
nominations from the floor for each position and
there were none. Greg Krcma moved up to
President; Jim Riggin to 1st VP; Bill Ward elected
2nd VP; Mel Hamill, Adjutant; Don Riverkamp,
Secretary; Jerry Middendorf, Treasurer; Jerry
Mangas, Web Master; Phil Ruth, Membership
Chairman; Phil Murray, Newsletter Editor; Robert
Hoerath, German Affairs Representative; and Tom
Mikloiche moved to Executive Board Advisor.
The membership voted on and approved $2000
donation to the AF Enlisted Foundation, and the
location for the 2011 Reunion was approved. The
2012 Reunion site locations were announced and
will be listed and voted upon by the membership
when they receive the ballot in the January 2011
Hof Connection Newsletter. The sites are Biloxi,
MS; Cocoa Beach, FL; Hof, Germany; Myrtle
Beach, SC; and Virginia Beach, VA. Once
everything was completed, the meeting was
adjourned and three groups of Hofers headed off to
their Group Dinners for an evening of good food
and conversation.
Wednesday morning the men held Frueh Schoppen
session and after an hour of reminiscing broke for
the scheduled Buffet Luncheon.
President
Mikloiche welcomed everybody and the plans for
lunch and the program were announced. Chaplain
Francis Fukumoto gave the invocation. President
Mikloiche gave out Awards of Appreciation, door
prizes were awarded, and a live Auction was held
for several selected items donated. Kerry
Christensen, Alpine & Western Yodeling Master
was introduced and immediately won over the
entire group with his yodeling and playing of the
Alphorn. When he sang Proud to be an American
the entire audience stood at attention and he
received a standing ovation lasting several minutes.
People lined up to buy his CD's and after Kerry
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
sang a few more songs closing time came, and
everyone left filled with food and
having
thoroughly enjoyed the luncheon program.
Thursday's schedule brought the much-anticipated
tour of Hill AFB Museum, Hill AFB, and the
Mormon Tabernacle/Temple Square in Salt Lake
City. At 1:00 P.M, 127 people eagerly awaited the
Buses arrival and once loaded we were off and
running until Bus # 1 couldn't get out of the parking
lot because it was so low to the ground. After 3
unsuccessful tries the driver went backwards since
most of the weight problems were forward and after
some serious scraping the undercarriage, we were
finally on our way. We lost about 30 minutes of
tour time but managed to make it up at Hill AFB
Museum. We were given an explanation of the F14's abilities, how they are loaded with bombs and
how it feels to fly one. Everyone enjoyed it
tremendously.
At 3:45 PM, we left Hill AFB and headed for Salt
Lake City. The 40-minute bus ride gave everyone a
chance to recover a bit from the hour spent at the
Museum and the hour and 15 minutes at the hanger
on base. We arrived at Temple Square, and even
though we split into 3 groups it was like herding
cats trying to keep so many people on the tour they
started with since each one toured a different area
and then switched to another. By 6:30 all the tours
were done and we were all in line for dinner at the
Lion house Pantry. After some exceptionally good
food, and a wonderful desert, we headed for our
viewing of the Mormon Tabernacles Choir practice.
Everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy the entire
performance.
Around 9:10, we boarded the buses and returned to
the Ogden Marriott, arriving at 10:00 PM, tired and
sleepy but happy the day went so well and the
weather co-operated.
Friday morning the Hospitality Room opened bright
and early and there were lots of Hofer's having
coffee and sweetbreads! At 3:00 PM the Hospitality
room closed down so the ladies could hold their
Kaffee Stunde and get to know each other a little
better. At 4:00 PM the Hospitality Room shut down
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for the day so everyone could get ready for the
Banquet Dinner and Dance.
The doors opened at 5:30 and everyone was in their
assigned seats by 5:50. President Tom Mikloiche
welcomed everyone, and introduced our honored
guests. Traudl Riggin sang the National Anthems of
USA and Germany. HRA Chaplain Francis
Fukumoto conducted the Memorial Service and
Invocation, assisted by Joey Trujillo, Stu
Sturdevant, Greg Krcma, and Sandy Krcma. At
6:15, an excellent and tasty dinner was served. A
special table for one was set in honor of our beloved
Adjutant Joe Kessler. At 7:45 President Mikloiche
made several announcements and there was a last
chance for 50/50 tickets. Music was provided by a
local DJ and there was plenty of table-hopping, and
picture taking by several members who then
allowed them to be linked to the HRA website.
Saturday morning the Hospitality Room opened at 8
AM for saying good-byes and promising to get
together again in Green Bay. Thanks to everyone
that attended the 2010 Ogden Reunion. 2011 HRA
Reunion to be held at the Hotel Sierra, September 510, 2011 in the city of Green Bay, Wisconsin.
See you all in Green Bay in 2011.
2011 – Green Bay, Wisconsin
September 5-10
HRA 10th ANNIVERSARY REUNION WAS AT
THE HOTEL SIERRA.
REUNION COORDINATORS – GREG &
SANDY KRCMA, and assisted by Mel Hamill &
Don Riverkamp
WELCOME TO TITLETOWN USA – HOME OF
THE WORLD CHAMPION GREEN BAY
PACKERS
During the week of September 5-10, 2011 - 187 of
our members, spouses, friends and family
descended on the quaint city of Green Bay,
Wisconsin, and the Hotel Sierra to celebrate the Hof
Reunion Association’s Tenth Anniversary since the
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
HRA was formally established as a military reunion
association. The Hotel Sierra was the nicest venue
the HRA had ever hosted a reunion at, and the hotel
staff was simply outstanding, as was their
professionalism, friendliness, courtesy, food, rooms,
and entire facility. And to add to this, was the great
location in downtown Green Bay.
List of Registered Green Bay Reunion Attendees:
Johnnie & Wilma Adams, Peggy Adams, Jim &
Susan Alexander, Mike & Ursula Assenmacher, Jim
& Gert Berry, Clyde Brown, Dennis Burr & Guest
Anne Zimmerman, Tony & Lynn Cameron, Jay C.
& Mary Roth Campbell, Karin K. & Dick
Campbell, Gary & Sandy Cherpes, Ralph & Jean
Christianson, Mark & Peggy Sue Clemons, Bill &
Marcia Combs, George & Sue Coons, Ruthie B. &
Don Costello, George & Irmgard Coursey, Wayne
& Becky Creekmore, Eddie Crump & Guest Dot
Little, James Crutchfield, Dave & Karen Dickson,
Martha ‘Wolfrum’ Dickson & Guest Curt Kiyabu,
Alois & Rosie Dietz (Roettingen), Dan & Dee
Engelken, George & Christa Fahrbach and Guests
Bruce & Flo Strang, Francis & Jo Ann Fukumoto,
Sidney & Gayle Futrell, Charles ‘Dave’ & Inge
Gaither, Patrick & Eileen Gallagher, Roger &
Elfriede Gentilini and Daughter Carol Andersen &
Andrew Andersen, Paul Genung, Melvin & Ilse
Hamill, Norm & Ursula Hines, Robert & Hanna
Hoerath (Naila), Dan & Darlene Holden, Bill &
Susan Holloway, Bennie & Sophye Hopper,
Richard & Vickie Johnson, Ken & Briana Juergens,
Jay & Sherri Kallas, Dolores Kessler & Guest
Kathy Delaney, Ken & Gay Kielbania, Greg &
Sandy Krcma, Helga Lange (Darmstadt), Ed &
Bonnie Leach, Jerry & Erika Librizzo, Jim
McGovern, Jerry & Hilde Middendorf, Fred
Middledorf & Guest Brenda Marshall, Tom & Inga
Mikloiche, Anna Mueller (Hof), Walt & Shirley
Murch, Steve & Donna Murphrey, Phil & Jo
Murray, David & Karin Natalie, Miles & Janice
Nelson, Claude & Susanne Niebuhr, Dan Norgail,
John & Aggie Pace, Pete & Margit Payne, Phyllis
Phipps, Bernie Pieper, Heidi Pouch, Rose Marie
Queen, Jim & Traudl Riggin and Brother-In-Law
Erich Duenne (Augsburg), Don Riverkamp, Harry
& Jerri Rupprecht, Phil Ruth, Danny & Brigitte
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2014
Sandifer & Guest Linda Decker, Dan & Carol
Scanny, John & Carol Scholl, Ramon & Elfriede
Schuety, Gordon & Margaret Schultz, Rodney &
Brigitte Schwandt, Brent & Linda Scott, Mike
Shanahan, Charles Shockley, Jack & Jean Sinagra,
Charles & Vicki Sinesh, Jerry & Ruth Smeal, Dave
& Di Smith, Nate & Ute Sparks, Charles & Evi
Stankich, Stu & Marcey Sturdevant,
Terry
Sweeney, Ray & Mary Szyperski, Dean & Shirley
Thompson, Francis M.C. & His Father Francis R.
Thompson, Walt & Margot Tribble, Robert &
Maggie Trojanowski, Joey Trujillo, Russ & Pat
Vandermartin, Bill & Edie Ward, Bob & Ginny
Ward and Guests (Son Pat & wife Keyna Ward,
Lee Bennett & Dick Shultz), Walt Whisner, Frank
& Shirley Wright, Rip & Jean Yarnell, and David &
Ingrid Zurawski.
Some of the executive board and members arrived a
day or two early. The majority of the
members/spouses, and guests arrived on Monday,
September 5, 2011. The HRA Executive Board held
their meeting on Monday evening at 5 PM.
The HRA registration was held on Tuesday, 9/6
starting at 9 AM, and the HRA Hospitality Room
opened at 9 AM the same day for all reunion
attendees. At 4 PM, President Krcma conducted the
General Membership Meeting. The meeting began
with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by President
Krcma. HRA Chaplain Francis Fukumoto then
proceeded with a Prayer Blessing. Greg then gave a
Big Green Bay Welcome to all members and
spouses in attendance.
The introduction of the current Executive Board
followed:
Greg Krcma – President
Jim Riggin – 1st Vice President
Bill Ward – 2nd Vice President
Mel Hamill – Adjutant
Don Riverkamp – Secretary
Jerry Middendorf – Treasurer
Phil Ruth – Membership Chairman
Jerry Mangas – Webmaster (Absent due to Pat’s
Health)
Phil Murray - Newsletter Editor
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Robert Hoerath – German Representative
Tom Mikloiche – Executive Board Advisor
And our Staff Members
Chaplain – Francis Fukumoto
Sergeants-at-Arms – Roger Gentilini and Walt
Murch
HRA Secretary Don Riverkamp presented the
minutes from the 2010 General Membership
Meeting in Ogden. Dave Natalie made motion to
accept minutes, 2nd by George Fahrbach, approved
by membership.
Outgoing President Greg Krcma introduced
president Elect Jim Riggin. Jim had all the FIRST
TIME REUNION ATTENDEES stand and be
recognized by the membership.
Jim reported on the information he and Robert
Hoerath have on our 2012 HRA Reunion at the
Quality Hotel in Hof, Germany, September 16-22,
2012. The tentative schedule for HRA Reunion in
Hof follows, and full information will be in the
2012 January Hof Connection Newsletter.

HRA Treasurer Jerry Middendorf presented the
Treasurer’s Financial Report to members. Rodney
Schwandt moved the Treasurer’s Report be
approved, 2nd by J.C. Campbell, and approved by
membership.
President Krcma talked about the AF Enlisted
Village Foundation Booklets included in the
registration packets. Greg informed the membership
the Executive Board had recommended a donation
of $2K to the AF Enlisted Village Foundation. Dan
Holden moved the HRA donate $2K, D. Nathan
Sparks 2nd the motion, approved by membership.
At 16:25 PM, President Krcma introduced Jennifer
Pollitt from Green Bay Mayor Schmidt’s Staff.
Jennifer apologized for Mayor Schmidt not being
able to attend due to moving his daughter into her
college dormitory. She welcomed the Hof Reunion
Association, members and spouses to Green Bay.
Jennifer talked about Lambeau Field expanding its
seating capacity, and how the Green Bay Packers
help provide the City of Green Bay roughly $8.2
million per year. She also informed our group in
2013, a beautiful new VA Clinic would be opening
in Green Bay. The HRA provided Jennifer with a
HRA GB Tee Shirt and 2011 Reunion Pin for the
Mayor’s office.
Greg informed everyone in attendance about the
tour schedule changes due to the NFL football
game, and thanked everyone for understanding why
the changes had to be made and the early departure
times.
hofreunion.com






Sunday – 9/16/12 - HRA Registration & Packets
at Quality Hotel
Monday – 9/17/12 - Rathaus with Hof Mayor &
Naila Brewery Tour
Tuesday – 9/18/12 - Wood Carving Tour &
General Membership Meeting
Wednesday – 9/19-12 - Tours of Kaserne,
Doebraberg, Fernweh Park, & Group Dinners
Thursday – 9/20/12 - City of Bamberg Tour and
Boat Cruise
Friday – 9/21/12 - Banquet at Theresienstein in
Hof
Saturday – 9/22/12 - Auf Wiedersehen
Breakfast at Quality Hotel
Bill Ward, 2013 Site Selection Committee
Chairman presented the site locations on the Site
Selection Ballots in the 2012 January Hof
Connection Newsletter.
Cocoa Beach, FL
Tampa Bay Area, FL
Washington DC Area
ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE BOARD WAS
CONDUCTED
 Jim Riggin automatically moved up to President
 Bill Ward automatically moved up to 1st Vice
President
 Greg Krcma automatically moved to Executive
Board Advisor
The following were elected by the membership in
GB until the end of 2012 reunion.
 Claude Niebuhr – 2nd VP – Tony Cameron
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Hof Reunion Association Official History






moved, 2nd by Dave Natalie.
Mel Hamill – Adjutant – Tony Cameron moved,
2nd by JC Campbell.
Don Riverkamp – Secretary – Stu Sturdevant
moved, 2nd by Russ Vandermartin.
Jerry Middendorf – Treasurer – Harry
Rupprecht moved, 2nd by Godan Schultz.
Phil Ruth – Membership Chairman – Stu
Sturdevant moved, 2nd by Ray Szyperski.
Jerry Mangas – Webmaster – Francis Thompson
moved, 2nd by Fred Middledorf.Phil Murray –
Newsletter Editor – Ray Szyperski moved, 2nd
by Dave Natalie.
Robert Hoerath – German Affairs Rep, – Dan
Holden moved, 2nd by Rodney Schwandt.
Motion made by Mark Clemons to adjourn, 2nd by
Jay Kallas, passed. MEETING ADJOURNED AT
5:25 PM.
The Group Dinners started at 6 PM on Tuesday
evening at various restaurant locations in the city of
Green Bay. The AC&W personnel hosted theirs at a
German Restaurant called the Lorelei Inn; Cops
personnel hosted theirs at the Titletown Brewery
Company; and the Operations personnel hosted
theirs at the Black & Tan Grille. Other smaller
groups also got together at locations in GB.
On Wednesday, three buses left for the tour of the
Green Bay Packers’ Lambeau Field, and the
Packers Hall of Fame. It was a super tour and all
buses returned to the Hotel Sierra in time for the
Wednesday HRA Luncheon Buffet Program 12:30
PM to 6 PM.
During the luncheon, Hof Reunion Association
Certificates of Appreciation were presented by our
HRA President Greg Krcma to the following
personnel:
 Kari Moody & Mike Jubert of the GB Sierra
Hotel
 Patti Drabes & Denise Humphrey of the GB
CVB
 Gary Cherpes, Alois & Rosie Dietz, Chaplain
Francis Fukumoto, Dolores Kessler, Tom &
Inga Mikloiche; Traudl Riggin; and Bill & Edie
hofreunion.com
Ward.
Many auction items and door prizes were auctioned
off and given away during the luncheon program.
The Ken Kreuger Band provided live entertainment.
The luncheon buffet food was great, and everyone
had a wonderful time. AND of course, there was an
open cash bar for all attendees.
Thursday morning, three buses left for scheduled
tours of the Renard’s Cheese Factory, and Von
Stiehl Winery. After touring these locations and
riding along the Lake Michigan waterfront, and Bay
of Green Bay, the buses stopped for a salad, soup,
and sandwich buffet at River’s Bend Restaurant.
After the luncheon, two buses continued and toured
the National Railroad Museum and Green Bay
Botanical Gardens while the third bus returned to
the Hotel Sierra to drop off those not participating
in the afternoon tour.
Thursday evening was open for reunion attendees,
and many spent the time in the Sierra Hotel Pub
watching the Green Bay/New Orleans NFL Football
Game, and of course partaking in food & drinks.
Some disappeared to the casino and some to their
rooms to rest after a long day.
Friday was a day to rest, shop, and visit in the
hospitality room, gamble, tour the city, or whatever
attendees wanted to do prior to the Friday evening
banquet. Of course Friday afternoon from 3 to 4
PM was the Frauen Kaffee Klatsch in the hospitality
room for the ladies. There were wine, coffee,
snacks, and homemade apple strudel for those in
attendance, and of course plenty of chatting.
Friday evening was the semi-formal banquet and
program. Doors opened at 5:30 PM and program
lasted until 11 PM. Greg Krcma welcomed all
attendees, followed by prayer by Chaplain Francis
Fukumoto, the singing of the German and American
National Anthem by Traudl Riggin. The Memorial
Service was led by Chaplain Francis Fukumoto and
assisted by Joey Trujillo, Phil and Jo Murray, and
Terry Sweeney. It was a beautiful ceremony as
always. The Tyroler Musikaten German Band
provided the live entertainment. 50/50 drawings
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
were conducted. The food and service was
exceptional. President Greg Krcma thanked
everyone in attendance, and hoped as many as
possible would make the trip to Hof in 2012.
On Saturday morning, most people said their
goodbyes at the breakfast buffet and/or in the
hospitality room. ALL IN ATTENDANCE HAD A
GREAT TIME!!
The 2012 HRA Reunion will be held at the Quality
Hotel in Hof, Germany, September 16-22, 2012.
See you in Hof/Saale in 2012!
2012 – Hof/Saale, Germany
September 16-22
The 2012 HRA reunion was held at the Hof Quality
Hotel, September 16-22, 2012 in the city of
Hof/Saale, Germany. During the week, HRA and
honorary members, spouses, friends and family
returned to their old stumping grounds in Hof,
Germany, to celebrate the 2012 Hof Reunion.
Reunion Coordinators – Robert & Hanna Hoerath,
assisted by Mel Hamill, Jim Riggin, and Don
Riverkamp, did an outstanding job in setting up all
facets of the reunion. Everything worked just like
clockwork, and as President Jim Riggin stated –
“They made me look good, while in fact, they did
all the work on making the reunion a very, very
successful one.”
 List of registered reunion attendees and guests:
John ‘Jack’ Adams (DC), Jim & Susan
Alexander (TX), Mike & Ursula ‘Hornfische’
Assenmacher (MI), Willies & Cathye Ballou
(TX), Hilde ‘Pecher’ Calisti (KS), Larry &
Sherry Cann (MA), Mark & Peggy Clemons
(OK), Ron & Joyce Coey (IL), George & Sue
Coons (NY), N. Wayne & Becky Creekmore
(NC), Barbara Davino (FL), Jerry & Ellen
‘Hansigk’ Decker (TX), Kathy DiCintio (CO),
Alois & Rosie Dietz (Roettingen), Francis &
JoAnn Fukumoto (HI), Malcolm & Heidi
‘Walter’ Gaissert (CA), Melvin & Ilse
‘Keilbart’ Hamill (DE), William ‘Smiley’ &
Elaine Hansberger (DE), Norm & Ursula
‘Träeger’ Hines (WA), Robert & Hanna Hörath
(Naila), Richard ‘Dan’ Holden (KY) & Guests
hofreunion.com

Mike Boggs and Kevin Kloentrup (KY), Helga
Lange (Darmstadt), John Lamb (AZ), Steve
Larimore (KS) & Guests Paula Shear & Steve’s
Son Vince Larimore, Paul & Erika
‘Rockelmann’ Laven (TX) and their Nephew
Michael Rockelmann (Hof), Ed & Bonnie
Leach (CA), Kenneth Meadows (TX), Jerry &
Hilde ‘Wunderlich’ Middendorf (MD) and
Guests Lis & Sandra Seigfried (Hof) & Ida
Sörgel & Kathe Urban (Hof), Fred Middledorf
& Guest Brenda Marshall (MD), Russel Moyer
(PA), Anna Müeller (Hof), Walt & Shirley
Murch (CA), Steve & Donna Murphrey (NC),
Dave & Karin ‘Zelgert’ Natalie (MI), Claude &
Susanne Niebuhr (MS), Margit ‘Thieroff’
Norwood (TX) & Cousin Sonja ‘Wanner’ Dietz
(Hof), C. Wade Nottingham (TN) & Sons Wade
Jr. and Ken, John & Aggie ‘Pietsch’ Pace (GA),
Harvey & Linda Pelton (FL), Phyllis Phipps
(IA) & Guests Jolene McKeag (Daughter) and
Tallie Furrow (Friend), Heidi Pouch (TX), Rose
‘Egelkraut’ & Gary Queen (DE), Jim & Traudl
‘Duenne’ Riggin (CO) and Traudl’s Brother
Erich Duenne (Augsburg), Norm Riley (NV),
Harold ‘Robbie’ & Helga ‘Pecher’ Robinson
(AL), Leo & Ilse ‘Muhlbauer’ Root (NV), Phil
Ruth (MD) & Guests Sharon Roberts (KY) and
Phil’s Daughter Renee Tinney (OK), Dan &
Carol Scanny (CA), Paul Schefft & Guest
Valerie Zavodny (OH), Ramon & Elfriede ‘Yes’
Schuety (MT), Gordon & Margaret Schultz
(WI) and Guests Mark & Christine Sulok (Sonin-Law & Daughter), Charles Shockley (IN),
Carl & Linda Smith (OK) & Daughter Melissa
Kenny, Dave & Di Smith (MI), Tim Spaeth
(GA), Charles & Evi ‘Flügel’ Stankich (TX),
Ludwig Stroessner (Hof), Ray Szyperski & Son
Bill Szyperski (MD), Dean & Shirley
Thompson (TX), Francis M.C. & Janet
Thompson (CO), John & Inge ‘Koslik’ Traub
(MT), Bill Ward (FL), Cecil White (CA), and
John Wible (IN).
Banquet only Guests – Ruben Artery (White),
Lisa Daniele & Adrian Lindner (Hoerath), Sonja
Frober (Schuety), Katja Gaertner & Andreas
Tippi (Queen), Christa & Fred Graf (Hamill),
Markus Kreuzer & Anita Sabisch (Ruth), Irmi
Schubert (Wible), Manfred Seigfried, Ralf
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Hof Reunion Association Official History

Forstel & Helga Boostreemam (Middendorf),
Achim & Gertraud Siebarth and Martina & Rudi
Puhlmann (Lamb).
HRA Banquet Guests – Rainer Kraub, Klaus
Beer, Erich Hanel, and Janin Grotius.
On Saturday the Hoerath’s, Hamill’s, Middendorf’s,
Natalie’s and Niebuhr’s set up the HRA registration
area.
Sunday’s Registration was delayed a couple hours
due to church services being held in the registration
room. After registration ended at 5 PM, the HRA
Executive Board held their annual reunion meeting.
The board approved to recommend to the members
at the General Membership Meeting, scheduled
Wednesday, the HRA donates $2,000.00 to the Air
Force Enlisted Village in Florida, and 1,000 Euro to
the St Elizabethan Orphanage in Hof. The site
selection committee for the perspective 2014 HRA
Reunion Site selected – Colorado Springs, CO;
Eugene, OR; and Kansas City, MO, approved.
Monday morning we journeyed downtown Hof and
met at the Rathaus with Harald Fichtner,
Buergermeister of the City of Hof. The mayor
welcomed us back to Hof, and Jim Riggin presented
the mayor a framed copy of the Hof Reunion Logo.
After the welcoming and presentation, the city of
Hof treated everyone to Schnitzel Sandwiches, Bier,
Wine, and Soda. Everyone had a couple hours for
shopping and sightseeing in downtown Hof prior to
the buses departing for the Tour of the Naila
Brewery. The tour attendees thoroughly enjoyed
this tour and as Jim put it – “We may be getting
older, but we can still drink some beer (4 Kegs) and
I think our table drank one by ourselves.” The tour
of the brewery included bier, snacks, and an
accordion player name Willi that kept the party
alive and entertaining. According to a few
members, the Naila Tour was the best tour ever of
all reunions held.
Tuesday, the tour buses departed the Quality Hotel
for Seiffen in Erzgebirge, a city in the old east zone,
where they make handmade wooden Christmas
ornaments. Seiffen is located just a couple
kilometers north of the Czech Republic.
hofreunion.com
2014
On Wednesday, tours to Doebraberg, the Kaserne
and Fernweh Park took place. At Doebraberg, the
group received a briefing and TV crews from
Bayreuth were there to film the visit. At the
Kaserne, the same Colonel briefed us during the
2006 Hof Reunion greeted the group; allowed group
to walk around Kaserne. The group had a good
lunch at the Kaserne Dining Hall. Upon completion
of lunch, the buses were off to Fernweh Park for a
meeting with Klaus Beer, and tour of the Sign
Forest Park. Lots of photos were taken at the park.
When the tour ended at Fernweh Park, the group
headed back to the Quality Hotel for the HRA
General Membership Meeting. Jim Riggin called
the meeting to order at 5:30 PM. It began with the
Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Jim welcomed all
the members and spouses in attendance and thanked
Robert Hoerath, Mel Hamill, and Don Riverkamp
for coordinating the 2012 Hof Reunion.
President Riggin advised the meeting attendees the
executive board had recommended two donations
for 2012. The first donation was to the Saint
Elizabethan Orphanage in Hof for 1,000 Euro.
Photos were taken of the presentation to the
orphanage. The second was our annual donation to
the Air Force Enlisted Village Foundation in
Florida,m$2,000.00. Donations approved by
members.
President Riggins requested the first time reunion
attendees to stand and be recognized: Willies &
Cathye Ballou, John Lamb, Margit Norwood, Carl
& Linda Smith, Tim Spaeth, and John & Inge
Traub.
Jim introduced 2013 President Elect Bill Ward. Bill
presented information about the 2013 HRA Cocoa
Beach Reunion. He presented the
tentative
schedule, room rates, and special hotel offers. All
information will be in the January 2013 Hof
Connection Newsletter. Bill also provided
information on a cruise Don Riverkamp has
arranged after the reunion. The cruise is completely
separate from reunion, and unrelated to the HRA
and members’ personal choice to extend their trip to
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Florida.
Since 2nd Vice President Claude Niebuhr, Site
Selection Committee Chairman, was hospitalized
just prior to the membership meeting, President
Riggin presented the following site locations for the
2014 HRA Reunion locations in the absence of
Claude. The site selection ballot will be in the 2013
January Hof Connection Newsletter. The sites are
Colorado Springs CO, Eugene OR and Kansas City
MO. Next, Election of Executive Board Members
for 2013:
 Bill Ward automatically moved to President
 Claude Niebuhr automatically moved to 1st VP
 Jim Riggin moved to Executive Board Advisor
The following members were elected by the
membership and will hold office through end of
2013 reunion, September 14, 2013:
 Dave Natalie, 2nd VP
 Mel Hamill, Adjutant
 Don Riverkamp, Secretary
 Jerry Middendorf, Treasurer
 Phil Ruth, Membership Chairman
 Jerry Mangas, Webmaster
 Phil Murray, Newsletter Editor
 Robert Hoerath, German Affairs Rep.
Jim
Riggin
recognized
the
following
members/spouses having attended every reunion
since 2002. They are Francis & Joann Fukumoto,
Robert & Hanna Hoerath, Steve & Donna
Murphrey, Jim & Traudl Riggin, Evi Stankich, and
Dean & Shirley Thompson. Meeting adjourned at
6:45 PM.
off to a boat cruise of Bamberg and some shopping
before heading back to the Quality Hotel.
Friday was a day off for resting, shopping, and/or
visiting relatives/friends prior to the evening HRA
Banquet at the Theresienstein. Jim Riggin got the
night started by recognizing our guests, thanking
everyone involved with the reunion. Chaplain
Francis Fukumoto conducted grace, and Traudl
Riggin sang the American and German National
Anthems. Chaplain Fukumoto held Memorial
Services for our fallen comrades, assisted by Dave
& Karin Natalie, and Dean Thompson. Next up, the
German meals, bier, and wine, dancing, and
evening entertainment by a German two man band.
All in attendance agreed that the entertainment was
fantastic and had a super evening.
On Saturday morning, a breakfast everyone seemed
to hate to see come to an end, was held at the Hof
Quality Hotel. The 2012 Hof Reunion Attendees
had a fast and furious week that went by too quick.
All had a great time and have a week to remember.
After the breakfast, attendees scattered – some to
Oktoberfest in Munich, others on tours, while some
returned to the states. One of the BEST
REUNIONS EVER!
All are looking forward to seeing a great turnout for
our next HRA Reunion at the International Palms
Resort in Cocoa Beach, Florida, September 9-14,
2013.
2013 – Cocoa Beach, Florida
September 9-14
Next Group Dinners, 6910th, 6912th, 6915th, and
7307th Dispensary was a dinner buffet at the
Quality Hotel; 602nd, 603rd, 606th, GAF, and Hof
Civilian Honorary member dinner buffet across the
street at the Metzgerei Herpich. Everyone enjoyed
themselves.
The 2013 HRA Reunion was held at the
International Palms Resort, Cocoa Beach, Florida,
September 9-14 to celebrate the 12th Annual HRA
Reunion, since the HRA was formally established in
2002. Reunion Coordinators were Bill & Edie
Ward, and assisted by Mel Hamill, Jerry
Middendorf, Don Riverkamp, and the International
Palms Resort's Denisse Benitez and her staff.
On Thursday, the group toured Bamberg including
the city, a cathedral, and had lunch at local
restaurants in town where they served Bamberg’s
Famous Smoked Bier. After lunch, the group was

hofreunion.com
List of registered reunion attendees and guests:
Johnnie & Wilma Adams (TN), Peggy Adams
(TN), Jim & Susan Alexander (TX), Mike &
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Ursula ‘Hornfischer’ Assenmacher (MI), Freddy
& Helga ‘Weber’ Bales (LA), Willies & Cathye
Ballou (TX), Jim & Gert Berry (WI), Bob &
Christa ‘Reicheit’ Brock (TX) and Guests Dick
& Leslie Brock (TX), Leonard & Marianne
Bundra (FL), Jerry & Dot Burton (TN), Mike &
Kathy Bussiere (IN), Jay C & Mary ‘Roth’
Campbell (CA), Vince & Mary Carnes (FL),
Bill & Bobbie Chaney (FL), Gary & Sandy
Cherpes (MI), Bill & Marcia Combs (MI),
Bruce & Brigitte ‘Kodnar’ Cook (OH) and
Guests Myrica Cook (OH), Irene ‘Jahn’ Lyle
(FL), & Linda Newman (VA), George & Sue
Coons (NY), Ruthie Blumenstein-Costello &
Don Costello (IL), Eddie Crump & Guest Dot
Little (SC), Barbara Davino (FL) & Guest
Olivia McDaniel (FL), Robert Dellacca (IN) and
Guests Son Ron & wife Renita Dellacca, Cindy
Reinert, and Andrea Hittle, Bob & Ali Denman
(FL), Ed & Nancy Desch (ME), Dave & Karen
Dickson (MI), Alois & Rosie Dietz (GER) and
Guests – Grandsons Felix & Florian Dietz
(GER), Anni Dixon & Guest Richard
Pappaceno (VA), Dan & Dee Engelken (FL),
George & Christa ‘Kuenzez’ Fahrbach (NY),
Francis & Joann Fukumoto (HI), Paul Fullmer
(OH), Sidney & Gayle Futrell (TX), Pat &
Eileen Gallagher (IL), Roger & Elfriede
‘Hasselbacher’ Gentilini (MN), Paul Genung
(SC), Murray Greer (MS) & Daughter Pam
‘Greer’ Richardson (MS), Billy & Karin
‘Unger’ Hall (NM), Melvin & Ilse ‘Keilbart’
Hamill (DE), Bernie & Lisa Harland (FL),
Jerome & Mary Hartjes (FL) and Guest Patti
Padot (FL), Norm & Norma Heggie (MA),
Norm & Ursula ‘Träeger’ Hines (WA), Dan &
Darlene Holden (KY), Bill & Sue Holloway
(FL), Bennie & Sophye Hopper (TX), Robert &
Hanna Hörath (GER), William Jackson (TX),
Ken & Brianna Juergens (MO), Jay & Sherri
Kallas (TN), Ken & Gay Kielbania (FL), Donn
& Sue Koenig (MD), Greg & Sandy Krcma
(WI), Dick Kreuzer & Daughter Heidi Kreuzer
(MI), John Lamb (AZ), Steve & Paula Larimore
(KS), Dick Learned (FL), Bill Little (MS), Jerry
Mangas (PA), Jerry & Hilde ‘Wunderlich’
MIddendorf (MD), Fred Middledorf & Brenda
Marshall (MD), Jim McGovern (MA), Tom &
hofreunion.com


Jan McKinney (FL), Tom & Inga ‘Krolkiewicz’
Mikloiche (CT), Anna Mueller & Guest Helga
Wuerdinger (GER), Walt & Shirley Murch
(CA), Steve & Donna Murphrey (NC), Phil &
Jo ‘Manseicher’ Murray (CA), Dave & Karin
‘Zelgert’ Natalie (MI), Claude & Susanne
Niebuhr (MS), Margit ‘Thieroff’ Norwood
(TX), C. Wade & Phyllis Nottingham (TN),
John & Aggie Pace (GA), Jim Patterson (MS) &
Ursula ‘Maidonski’ Wilson (FL), Harvey &
Linda Pelton (FL), Phyllis Phipps (IA) & Guest
Tallie Furrow (IA), Heidi Pouch (TX),
Heidemarie ‘Mirsh’ Prince (TX) & Guest
Ursula Siemer (FL), Henry Quarterman (GA) &
Guest Dorthea Powell (GA), Rose Marie
‘Egelkraut’ Queen (DE), Jack & Pat Rief (FL),
Jim & Traudl ‘Duenne’ Riggin (CO) and
Brother Erich Duenne (GER), Don Riverkamp
(TX), Jerry & Gudrun ‘Teichmann’ Robinson
(TN), Phil Ruth (OK) & Sharon Roberts (KY),
Brent & Linda Scott (CA), Mike Shanahan (IL),
Charles Shockley (IN), Jack & Jean Sinagra
(PA), Noel Sinchak (FL), Gerald & Ruth Smeal
(CO), Jim & Norene Smith (OH), Grant & Dona
Sorensen (TX), Tim Spaeth (GA), Ed & Alice
Spellman (FL), Charles & Evi ‘Flügel’ Stankich
(TX), Stu & Marcey Sturdevant (TX), Ron &
Marilyn Suriano (FL), Monika ‘Kiessling’
Swank (FL), Ray & Mary Szyperski (MD),
Dean & Shirley Thompson (TX), Roy &
Claudia Tiller (MD), Walt & Margot ‘Stark’
Tribble (TN), Bob Trojanowski (PA), Dirke
Vallo (FL), Jean Vinson & Guest Richard
Gelasco (NC), Bill & Edie ‘Strobel’ Ward (FL),
Gary & Jen Ward (FL), Walt Whisner (VA),
Richard Williams (FL), Marty & Judy Wright
(FL), Wm Frank & Shirley Wright (TN), Rip &
Jean Yarnall (FL).
Friday Banquet Guests: Mike Boggs & Kevin
Kloentrup (Holden); Ed Bonenberger (Sinagra –
Jean’s Son); Gerlinde Miller (J. Robinson); John
& Tracy Pardue (Holloway); Sharon Spencer
(Murch).
Friday Banquet Guests of HRA: Denisse
Benitez (International Palms Resort); Will
Bryan (DJ); Mike & Kathy Graham
(Photographers)
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
Most of the members arrived either on Saturday,
Sunday, or Monday for the 2013 Cocoa Beach
Reunion, and the following are events that occurred
during the reunion.
Monday - The executive board help set up the
hospitality room and registration room and packed
all the HRA Registration stuff into bags for a faster
registration set for Tuesday morning at 9 AM to 1
PM. Dave Natalie and his hospitality team
purchased the goodies for the hospitality room and
packed the beer, wine, soda, and water in ice
coolers in preparation for the opening on Tuesday.
At 5 PM, the HRA Executive Board met and went
over the reunion details and held their annual board
meeting in the Egret Room, meeting adjourned at
6:45 PM.
Tuesday - HRA Registration opened at 9AM in the
Manatee A Room, as did the Hospitality Room in
the Dolphin Room. In the Manatee BCD Room, the
General Membership Meeting was held. HRA
President Bill Ward called the meeting to order at
4PM. HRA Chaplain Francis Fukumoto gave the
innovation. Bill Ward introduced the current
Executive Board Members to the General
Membership.
HRA Secretary Don Riverkamp had the Sergeants
at Arms pass out the minutes of the 2012 Hof
Reunion General Membership Meeting for
members to review. After reviewing the minutes,
Ray Szyperski moved they be approved and motion
was seconded by Phyllis Phipps, members
approved.
HRA Treasurer Jerry Middendorf had the
Treasurer's Report handed out and briefed the
members. After the membership had reviewed the
report, Tom Mikloiche moved for approved, motion
seconded by Charles Stankich, members approved.
Bill Ward informed the membership that the
Executive Board had recommended $2,000.00 be
donated to the AF Enlisted Foundation for 2013.
Phyllis Phipps moved to approve the donation,
seconded by Bill Combs, members approved.
hofreunion.com
2014
Bill Ward informed the membership the Executive
Board had recommended 1K EURO be donated to
the St Elizabethan Orphanage in Hof in 2013.
George Fahrbach moved to approve the donation,
motion seconded by Bill Combs, members
approved.
Bill Ward briefed the members on the CCAFS and
St Augustine Tours scheduled for Wednesday and
Thursday, and where to board the buses.
Jim Riggin informed the membership of the
location, hotel, and dates of the 2014 HRA
Reunion. The reunion will be held at the Hotel
Elegante, Colorado Springs, CO from October 5-11,
2014. Full details will be in the 2014 January Hof
Connection Newsletter.
Dave Natalie briefed members on the three choices
selected for the 2015 HRA Reunion Sites to be
voted upon by members when the January
Newsletter comes out. The three locations are:
Biloxi, MS; Branson, MO; and Traverse City, MI.
Bill Ward conducted the Executive Board Elections.
The following were nominated by the Nominating
Committee, with approval by the Executive Board,
and so moved by the members and membership.
 German Affairs Representative - Robert
Hoerath, moved to close by Ray Szyperski,
seconded by John Lamb and approved by
membership.
 Webmaster - Jerry Mangas, moved to close by
George Fahrbach, seconded by Brent Scott and
approved by membership.
 Hof Connection Newsletter Editor – Phil
Murray, moved to close by Tom Mikloiche,
seconded by Mike Shannahan and approved by
membership.
 Membership Chairman – Phil Ruth, moved to
close by Ray Szyperski, seconded by Billy Hall
and approved by membership.
 Secretary – Don Riverkamp, moved to close by
John Lamb, seconded by Sydney Futrell and
approved by membership.
 Adjutant – Melvin Hamill, moved to close by
Walt Whisner, seconded by Noel Sinchak and
approved by membership.
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Hof Reunion Association Official History




Treasurer – Jerry Middendorf, moved to close
by Barbara Davino, seconded by Brent Scott,
approved by membership.
HRA President Bill Ward automatically moves
to Executive Board Advisor.
1st
Vice
President
Claude
Niebuhr
automatically moves up to HRA President.
2nd Vice President Dave Natalie automatically
moves up to 1st Vice President.
2nd Vice President – Nominated by committee &
executive board – Jim Riggin. Nominated from the
floor by Tom Mikloiche and seconded by Greg
Krcma – Peggy Adams. Jim Riggin and Peggy
Adams were asked to leave the meeting room while
the vote was taken. NEW 2nd Vice President is Jim
Riggin by a vote of 32 to 30.
Bill Ward asked first time HRA Reunion Attendees
please stand and be recognized: Robert Denman,
Mike & Kathy Bussiere, William ‘Vince’ Carnes,
and Dick Learned.
Tom Mikloiche moved for adjournment, seconded
by Greg Krcma, approved by membership at 4:55
PM.
Footnote: An audit of the Treasurer Records was
conducted by HRA Members John Pace and Walt
Murch during the 2013 CB Reunion. The audit
determined the Treasurer’s Records were correct
and accurate.
Group Dinners followed the general membership
meeting at different locations in Cocoa Beach,
AC&W; Cops; Dispensary; Operations.
Wednesday - 0730AM, 156 boarded the three buses
for the tour of Cape Canaveral Air Station. The
remaining personnel remained behind to rest for the
luncheon buffet program and chit chat in the
hospitality room.
The Luncheon Buffet Program kicked off at
12:30PM and lasted until 6PM. Bill Ward opened
the program by welcoming everyone and Chaplain
Francis Fukumoto led the group in prayer.
Luncheon buffet meal was called the Beach Blanket
hofreunion.com
2014
Deli Buffet consisting of Honey Roasted Ham,
Smoked Turkey, Roast Beef, and Grilled Bratwurst
along with Red Bliss Potato Salad, Tri-Color Pasta
Salad, Fresh Seasonal Sliced Fruit, Assorted
Cheeses, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Onions, and
appropriate condiments, Assorted Fresh Baked
Rolls and Bread, and Assorted Desserts. Coffee and
Iced Tea were included, and we had an open cash
bar for other drinks. Music by DJ Will Bryan and
photos were taken by Mike & Kathy Graham.
After lunch, President Bill Ward presented Eleven
Certificates
of
Appreciation
to
HRA
Members/Spouses, and the International Palms
Resort
Coordinator.
The
following
members/spouses were presented certificates for
perfect reunion attendance since we became an
official Hof Reunion Association in 2002 (12
straight years of attending the annual reunions), and
contributing to the growth, success and longevity of
the HRA: Alois & Rosie Dietz; Franci & Joann
Fukumoto; Norm & Ursula Hines; Robert & Hanna
Hoerath; Steve & Donna Murphrey; Heidi Pouch;
Jim & Traudl Riggin; Evi Stankich; and Dean &
Shirley Thompson. Greg & Sandy Krcma were
presented a certificate for their dedication, time, and
coordination in making the 2011 Green Bay
Reunion a great success. Denisse Benitez,
International Palms Resort, for her coordination and
dedication to the HRA Cocoa Beach Reunion.
Auction items and door prizes were auctioned off
and given away throughout the afternoon with
dance music provided by DJ Will Bryan. Thanks to
all the personnel that donated auction and/or door
prizes for the HRA Reunion. The committee had
108 Door Prize Items, and 13 Auction Items. The
auction items brought in $560.00 for the HRA, and
half of the registered reunion attendees went home
with a door prize. Thanks to Door Prize Committee
of Jerry Middendorf & Phil Murray for coordinating
the event, and Tom Mikloiche for auctioning off the
13 auction items. The luncheon program ended at 6
PM, members/spouses/guests either went out to
dinner, went to hospitality room, Mambo's On the
Beach, or back to their rooms.
Thursday - At 0730AM, 141 boarded three buses
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Hof Reunion Association Official History
and headed out for a day in St Augustine, Florida.
After the planned 1½ hour narrated trolley ride
throughout the city, members/spouses/guests were
allowed to travel their own routes throughout St
Augustine via trolley ride or walking and lunch was
at their choice of restaurants, or sandwich shops. At
1500PM, buses departed for return trip to Cocoa
Beach. Thursday evening was open for whatever
attendees wanted to do.
Friday - Friday morning was set aside for visiting
with fellow Hofers in the hospitality room, resting
up for the banquet program, shopping, washing
clothes, going to the beach, or anything the
attendees felt like doing. The hospitality room
closed at 3 PM in order that the women could hold
their Frauen Kaffee Klatsch with Apple Stroudel,
Coffee, Wine, and Soda until 4:30PM. From 5PM
to 6PM, individual, couples and group photos were
taken outside the Manatee Ballroom. Doors to
ballroom opened at 5:45PM.
President Bill Ward opened the night's program by
welcoming everyone, followed by the US National
Anthem, and the German National Anthem, sung by
Traudl Riggin. Chaplain Francis Fukumoto
followed with the Memorial Services for our fallen
members/spouses. Chaplain Fukumoto was assisted
by Peggy Adams, Jim Patterson, and Walt Whisner.
At 7 PM, dinner was served. Choices of meals were
London Broil, Champagne Chicken, Mango Mahi
Mahi, or Vegetarian Meal. Dinner music was
provided by Will Bryan. During the evening, Bill
Ward presented two plaques. The first was
presented to Robert & Hanna Hoerath for their
dedicated time and effort in coordinating the
successful 2002, 2006, and 2012 HRA Reunions at
the Quality Hotel in Hof/Saale, Germany. The
second plaque was presented to HRA German
Representative Robert Hoerath to take back to Hof
and present to Hof Mayor Harald Fichtner on
bestowing him as an Honorary Member of the Hof
Reunion Association. The winners of the 50/50
drawing at the Friday Night Banquet were - Kevin
Kloentrup ($300); Jim Patterson ($150); and
Monika Swank ($150). Dance music, dancing,
chatting, photos, drinking, and fun lasted until
11PM and the closing song.
hofreunion.com
2014
Saturday - Attendees had the breakfast buffet and
said their goodbyes. The hospitality room was open
until Noon to collect photo albums, and also say
final goodbyes.
On behalf of the HRA Executive Board, thank you
for a wonderful 2013 HRA Reunion. Planning has
already started for the 2014 Reunion. We are
looking forward to a super turnout at the Hotel
Elegante in Colorado Springs, Colorado, October 511, 2014.
**History updated on October 4, 2013 by Mel
Hamill, Don Riverkamp & Bill Ward.
2014 – COLORADO SPRINGS
OCTOBER 5-11, 2014
2014 HRA Reunion was held at the Hotel Elegante,
Colorado Springs, Colorado October 5-11, 2014.
Celebrating the 13th Annual HRA Reunion since
the HRA was formally established in 2002.
Reunion Coordinator was Jim Riggin, assisted by
Mel Hamill, Don Riverkamp and Hotel Elegante’s
Carol Hooker and Rick Rhodes.
Attending the 2014 HRA Reunion (107)
Jim & Susan Alexander (TX), Bob & Christa Brock
(TX), JC & Mary Roth Campbell III (CA), Larry &
Sherry Cann (MA), George & Sue Coons (NY),
Alois & Rosie Dietz (GER), Francis & JoAnn
Fukumoto (HI), Sidney & Gayle Futrell (TX),
Patrick & Eileen Gallagher (IL), Lloyd & Lorna
Geigley (MD), Reuben Green (FL), Mel & Ilse
Hamill (DE), Robert & Hanna Hoerath (GER), Dan
& Darlene Holden (KY) & Guest Mike Boggs
(KY), Ken & Briana Juergens (MO), Paul &
Angelika Kernan (CO), Ken & Gay Kielbania (FL),
Greg & Sandy Krcma (WI), Dick Kreuzer & Guest
Heidi Kreuzer (MI), Bill Little (MS), Jerry Mangas
(PA), Charles & Renate Mattice (DE) and Guests
Dean & Terry Mattice (MD), Jerry & Hilde
Middendorf (MD), Fred Middledorf & Brenda
Marshall (MD), Anna Mueller (GER), Walt &
Shirley Murch (CA), Steve & Donna Murphrey
(NC), Phil & Jo Murray (CA), Dave & Karin
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2014
Hof Reunion Association Official History
Natalie (MI), Tom & Monika Nickerson (CO),
Claude & Susanne Niebuhr (MS), Margit
Norwood (TX), C. Wade & Phyllis
Nottingham (TN), John & Aggie Pace (GA),
Phyllis Phipps (IA) and Guest Tallie Furrow
(IA), Dean Reed (CA), Jim & Traudl Riggin
(CO) and Guests Kip & Tanja Schloegel (MS),
Don Riverkamp (TX), Harry & Jerri
Rupprecht (MD), Phil Ruth (VA), Dan &
Carol Scanny (CA), John & Carol Scholl
(MO), Tom Scholle (CO), Ramon & Elfriede
Schuety (MT) and Guests Dave & Terry
Barnes (MT), Brent & Linda Scott (CA), Mike
Shanahan (IL), Charles Shockley (IN), Gerald
& Ruth Smeal (CO), Tim Spaeth (GA), Claude
Spicer & Daughter Kathie Allen (KS), Francis
MC Thompson (CO), & Father Francis R
Thompson (WA), Roy & Claudia Tiller (MD),
Joey Trujillo (NM), Bill & Edie Ward (FL),
Darlene ‘Dee Dee’ Weaver (TX), John Wible
(IN), Helga Wuerdinger (GER), and Rip &
Jean Yarnell (FL).
Friday Night Banquet Only (21)
Saturday
The executive board with help from our members
set up the hospitality room and registration room.
All the HRA registration items were stuffed into
bags making for a fast and smooth registration
Sunday 9 AM to 3 PM. Jim Riggin and his
hospitality team purchased the goodies for the
hospitality room and packed the beer, wine, soda
and water in ice coolers and a refrigerator in
preparation for the opening on Sunday at 9 AM.
Sunday
HRA Registration opened at 9AM, as did the
Hospitality Room. At 4:00 PM, Claude Niebuhr
conducted the Executive Board meeting that ended
at 6 PM.
Monday
The hospitality room opened at 8 AM and closed at
10 AM.
Jennifer, Jessica, & Jason Evans (CO)
(Grandchildren of Phil Ruth); Whitney Futrell
(CO) (Granddaughter of Sidney & Gayle
Futrell); Leann Gunther, Dan & Wendy Smith
(CO) (Guests of Gerald & Ruth Smeal); Lexea
Jones (CO) (Guest of Tom Scholle); Gale
Partrich (CO) (Widow of Bill); Lloyd
Rupprecht (CO) (Brother of Harry Rupprecht);
Craig Scott (TX) (Son of Brent & Linda
Scott); Loran & Estelle Unger (CO); Major
General John Shanahan (TX) and Aide Captain
Sidney Harris (TX) (Featured Speaker &
Guests of HRA); CMSgt Ed Cates & CMSgt
Bill DeBoar (CO) (MIA/POW Ceremonial and
Guests of HRA), Irmgard Cates & Alice
DeBoar (CO) (Wives of Ed & Bill & Guests of
Jim Riggin); Army SGM Jerry Bryant & wife
Doris (CO) (DJ - Guests of HRA).
General Membership Meeting, chaired by HRA
President Claude Niebuhr, was called to order at
10:07 AM. Claude led the members in the Pledge
of Allegiance. Chaplain Francis Fukumoto gave the
invocation prayer. Claude introduced the Executive
Board Members to the General Membership.
Most of the HRA members and guest arrived
on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Following by
day are events that occurred during the
reunion.
Treasurer Jerry Middendorf had the Treasurer’s
Report handed out to the members. He gave details
and clarified the treasurer’s report. After members
reviewed the report, Greg Krcma moved they be
approved and motion was 2nd by Brent Scott and
hofreunion.com
Claude thanked 2nd VP Jim Riggin for coordinating
the 2014 Colorado Springs Reunion and for the
outstanding job he did with all the planning.
Secretary Don Riverkamp directed the Sergeants at
Arms pass out the minutes of the 2013 Cocoa Beach
Reunion General Membership Meeting for
members to review. After members reviewed the
minutes, JC Campbell moved the Cocoa Beach
minutes be approved and motion was 2nd by Phyllis
Phipps and approved by membership.
Page 30
Hof Reunion Association Official History
approved by membership.
1st Vice President Dave Natalie reported on
the 2015 Reunion Site.
He explained the
reason for changing from Biloxi, MS to
Traverse City, Michigan which was due to the
cost and restrictions presented to site reviewers
of the hotel properties. Six different hotels
were contacted in Biloxi. The 2015 HRA
Reunion will be held at the Great Wolf Lodge,
an ALL suites hotel, in Traverse City, MI,
September 27 to October 3, 2015. Full details
about the reunion, forms, cost, tours, etc. will
be in the 2015 January Hof Connection
Newsletter.
2nd Vice President Jim Riggin presented the 3
Site Selections that will be on the ballot in the
2015 January Hof Connection Newsletter for
the 2016 HRA Reunion. Sites in alphabetical
order are Hof, Germany; Kansas City, MO;
and Washington DC Area. Jim Riggin talked
about the 2014 CS Reunion. Jim informed the
members/spouses in attendance he had made
the tours short due to the high altitude of
Colorado Springs, age & health of our
members and some complaints about long
tours from previous reunions. A couple of the
original tours that Jim was planning had to be
cancelled due to the fires that had occurred in
and around the Colorado Springs area – Flying
‘W’ Ranch and Royal Gorge. He had looked
into a Cheyenne Mountain tour, however, NO
visitors are presently being allowed. Jim
talked about Cripple Creek, an old mining
town with museums, casinos and bus
transportation for $25 RT including $25 in
gambling chips. Jim also suggested that
members wishing to go to Pike’s Peak to take
the Cog Railway to the top instead of driving
their vehicles up during the free days of the
reunion. Jim stated he had visited with the
hotel coordinator about all the sweet pastries
that contained too much sugar for some of our
members with diabetes. He directed them to
add more muffins and also provide bagels,
toast and cream cheese.
Claude informed the attendees, per the HRA
hofreunion.com
2014
Constitution/Bylaws, Dave Natalie automatically
moves up to President; Jim Riggin moves up to 1st
VP; and Claude moves to Executive Board Advisor
for one year.
Next, the election of Executive Board members for
the remainder of 2014 and thru the 2015 HRA
Reunion in Traverse City, Michigan, conducted by
President Niebuhr.
Nominated for 2nd VP by the Executive Board was
Walt Murch and Bill Ward. Nominations opened to
floor and none were made. Dan Holden moved
nominations be closed and it was 2nd by Greg
Krcma. During the counting of the paper ballots
since 2 members were nominated, Mel Hamill read
the duties of ALL Executive Board Members to the
membership. Walt Murch was elected the NEW
2nd VP.
Mel Hamill was nominated by board for Adjutant
position and since no nominations came from floor,
was proclaimed by membership for continuing as
HRA Adjutant.
Don Riverkamp was nominated by board for
Secretary Position. No nominations from floor and
Dan Holden moved to close nominations, 2nd by
Brent Scott and approved.
Jerry Middendorf decided to resign and Rosie
Queen was nominated by board for Treasurer
Position. No nominations from floor and JC
Campbell moved nominations be closed, 2nd by
Ken Kielbania and approved.
Membership Chairman Nominee was Phil Ruth. No
nominations from floor and Brent Scott moved
nominations be closed, 2nd by Harry Rupprecht and
approved.
Webmaster Nominee was Jerry Mangas.
No
nominations from floor and Phyllis Phipps moved
nominations be closed, 2nd by JC Campbell and
approved.
Newsletter Editor Nominee was Phil Murray. No
nominations from floor and Mike Shanahan moved
nominations be closed, 2nd by John Pace and
Page 30
2014
Hof Reunion Association Official History
approved.
German Affairs Representative Nominee was
Robert Hoerath. No nominations from floor
and JC Campbell moved nominations be
closed, 2nd by John Pace and approved.
DONATIONS suggested by Executive Board
Claude informed the membership of the three
(3) suggested donations from the HRA for
2014.
$2K for Air Force Enlisted Village Foundation
in Florida. JC Campbell moved that this be
approved by membership, 2nd by Jim
Alexander and approved.
1,000€ for St Elisabethheim Orphanage in Hof.
Hilde Middendorf moved that this be approved
by membership, 2nd by John Wible and
approved.
$1K for Wounded Warrior Association. After
much discussion on percentages that the group
actually gets, Brent Scott moved to defer this
until 2015 after Exec Board researches the
percentages, 2nd by Ken Kielbania and
approved.
Since the $1K was deferred until 2015 and
would need membership approval at Traverse
City Reunion, the following motion was made.
Francis Thompson moved that the HRA
increase their 2014 donation for the AFEV
Foundation in Florida to $3K from $2K, 2nd
by JC Campbell and approved.
All the members/spouses were reminded to
drink plenty of WATER during their stay in
Colorado Springs due to the high altitude and
possible altitude sickness from dehydration.
Chaplain Francis Fukumoto asked for
volunteers to assist him with the Friday Night
Memorial Services. JC Campbell, Phyllis
Phipps, Brent Scott, and Joey Trujillo stepped
up and will assist Francis.
hofreunion.com
Jerry Middendorf and Phil Murray asked for
volunteer for auctioneer during Wednesday
Luncheon Program. John Pace stepped up to the
plate, as auctioneer and Frieda Schuety volunteered
to assist John.
Darlene ‘Dee Dee’ Weaver, widow of Dave (602nd
AC&W) and member of HRA got Claude’s
attention and stood up and wanted to personally
acknowledge and thank Mel Hamill and Don
Riverkamp for all their help and assistance with
joining the HRA and attending this year’s reunion.
Motion for adjournment came at 11:35 AM from
Fred Middledorf, 2nd by Mike Shanahan and
approved.
FOOTNOTE: HRA Members John Pace and Claude
Niebuhr conducted Audits of the Treasurer Records
during the 2014 CS Reunion.
The auditors
determined that the Treasurer’s Records were
correct and accurate.
Hospitality Room reopened after General
Membership Meeting and stayed opened until 4PM.
At 2 PM 82 boarded the two buses for tour of Space
Foundation Museum. After museum tour, buses
headed to the Mini Oktoberfest at the Edelweiss
German Restaurant where they were joined by 18
other reunion attendees and had a good German
meal and a few BIERS. Buses back to the hotel at 7
PM.
Tuesday
Hospitality Room opened from 8 AM to 6 PM.
9 AM to 1 PM was open for rest, shopping, visiting
in Colorado Springs area, or just chatting with
fellow Hofers.
At 1 PM 86 reunion attendees boarded two buses
for tour of the Air Force Academy and the Garden
of the Gods. Back to the hotel at 5 PM.
Group Dinners at different restaurants in Colorado
Springs from 6 PM to 10 PM.
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2014
Hof Reunion Association Official History
Wednesday
John N.T. ‘Jack’ Shanahan,
Commander 25th Air Force
Dancing and Socializing
Hospitality Room opened from 8 AM to Noon.
2100-2300
12:30 PM to 6 PM was the 2014 Reunion
Luncheon Program in the Summit Room on
the 4th and Top Floor of the Hotel Elegante.
Great luncheon buffet, music and door
prizes/silent/live auction brought in $832 to the
HRA. Thanks to our volunteer auctioneer John
Pace and his assistant Frieda Schuety. Special
thanks again to our Door Prize Committee that
do a great job every year - Jerry Middendorf &
Phil Murray. Our members/spouses and guests
donated some super gifts. All had great time.
We come together to honor Hofers, to renew
friendships and to remember those who are not with
us tonight. God Bless America
Hospitality Room reopened from 6 PM to 10
PM.
Thursday
Thursday was a free day for attendees to tour
venues of their liking in Colorado Springs,
take a trip to Cripple Creek, an old mining
town with museums and casinos, cog to Pikes
Peak, visit Royal Gorge, revisit Garden of
Gods, shop or just rest. It rained all day, and
had 2 feet of snow in the higher elevations of
the mountains – very picturesque.
1730-1800
1800
1815
1830
1900
2030
hofreunion.com
Saturday
Hospital Room open from 8 AM to Noon to clean
up and say our Goodbyes. We also had 32
members/spouses/guests stay over Saturday and
attend The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA)
Colorado Springs Oktoberfest which was arranged
by our 2014 Reunion Coordinator Jim Riggin.
On behalf of the HRA Executive Board, thank you
for a wonderful 2014 HRA Reunion. Planning has
already started for the 2015 Reunion. We are
looking forward to a super turnout at the Great Wolf
Lodge in Traverse City, Michigan, September 27 to
October 3, 2015.
**History updated on October 22, 2014 by Don
Riverkamp, Mel Hamill, & Jim Riggin.
Friday
0800-1400
1430-1600
1730-2300
The 50/50 winners were:
1st Place Winner – Patrick Gallagher, $200.00
2nd Place Winner – Robert Hoerath, $100.00
3rd Place Winner – Tom Nickerson, $75.00.
Hospitality Room Open
Frauen Kaffee Klatsch
Friday
Night
Banquet
Program “Great food and
good time by everyone”
Social hour
Posting of Colors and Singing
of German & American
National Anthems
POW/MIA Ceremony by
CMSgt Ed Cates and CMSgt
Bill DeBoar
Memorial
Service
and
Invocation
by
Chaplain
Francis Fukumoto
Dinner is served
Guest Speaker Major General
Page 30