USS Mississippi Reunion Highlights: Share Your Memories

The USS Mississippi reunion is more than just a gathering; it is a celebration of camaraderie, shared experiences, and cherished memories. On odd years, veterans, families, and friends come together to honor the legacy of the USS Mississippi and the bonds formed during service. This blog post will highlight some of the most memorable moments from recent reunions and invite you to share your own stories.

Riverboat Cruise at the Savannah GA reunion - 9/18/21

Event Schedule

As attendees arrive, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and nostalgia. The reunion kicks off with a good old fashioned Navy working party to unload the trailer and stock the hospitality room.

Travel plans vary as some use the reunion as a vacation enjoying some private time before the official reunion. Generally on about Tuesday the trailer arrives and we set up the hospitality room with many folks arriving throughout the day.

Local excursions are organized impromptu on Tues to Fri with a golf tournament near the end of the week for those so inclined. Make a new friend and go enjoy the military connection to the town we picked.

The centerpiece of the reunion is our hospitality reunion filled with merchandise, memorabilia, and most importantly countless smiles and laughter that echo through the venue as stories begin to flow.

Friday evening we do a silent auction to help with fundraising and many groups form up to enjoy a nice restaurant in town.

Saturday evening is the culmination with a banquet dinner, guest speaker, formal pictures, and a live auction.

Sunday morning is a 0700 all member meeting followed by another working party to pack up the trailer and move out.

Special events have included Riverboat Cruise in Savannah GA, Norfolk base tours including the new ship handling maritime center, ship tour, and being honored at SURFLANT. Pensacola FL was highlighted with visits to the Navy Air Museum.

Sharing Stories

One of the most cherished aspects of the reunion is the storytelling. Veterans take turns sharing their experiences, from humorous anecdotes to poignant moments.

These stories not only entertain but also serve to strengthen the bonds among attendees. They remind everyone of the shared experiences that shaped their lives.

Honoring the Fallen

A significant part of the reunion is dedicated to honoring those who served and are no longer with us. A moment of silence is observed, allowing everyone to reflect on the sacrifices made by their fellow shipmates. We read the name of every sailor who was taken from us since the previous reunion. Compiling and maintaining the list is difficult so please pass on any information you may have to our secretary.

A Celebration of Unity

The reunion is a celebration of unity and friendship. Attendees often express how much they look forward to this event each year.

Many friendships formed during service continue to thrive, and the reunion serves as a reminder of those bonds. The laughter, shared meals, and heartfelt conversations create an atmosphere of warmth and belonging.

Share Your Memories

As we reflect on the highlights of the USS Mississippi reunion, we invite you to share your own memories. What moments stand out to you?

Whether it was a funny story, a meaningful conversation, or a special connection made, your experiences are valuable. Sharing these memories not only honors the past but also enriches the community.

Feel free to leave your stories in the comments below. We would love to hear from you and celebrate the legacy of the USS Mississippi together.

Looking Ahead

As the reunion comes to a close, attendees often express their eagerness for the next gathering. The bonds formed during these events are strong, and many look forward to reconnecting in the future.

Planning for the next reunion begins almost immediately, with discussions about potential locations and activities. The excitement builds as everyone anticipates the next opportunity to come together.

Final Thoughts

The USS Mississippi reunion is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who served. It is a time to celebrate friendships, honor sacrifices, and share stories that will be passed down through generations.

As we look forward to future reunions, let us continue to cherish the memories we have created and the connections we have made. Your stories matter, and they contribute to the rich tapestry of the USS Mississippi's legacy.

We hope to see you at the next reunion, ready to share more memories and create new ones. Together, we keep the spirit of the USS Mississippi alive.