The power of reunions: reunions are emotionally uplifting experiences for everyone involved

VFW Magazine, Jan, 2003 by Cassie Fenoseff

Some people will want to attend but can't. For example, some won't be able to afford the trip. One group of vets came up with a solution to this problem when someone who couldn't attend offered to send money instead. This started a fund-raising effort in which donations from individuals and businesses were used to allow the less-fortunate veteran to attend their reunion and reap the benefits that came with it.

There is nothing quite like reuniting with people whom you experienced a life-altering event. Many are amazed they can relate so easily after not seeing one another for several years and wonder why they waited so long to attend. While the reunion may last only a few hours or days, the benefits that come with it can last a lifetime.

Reunion Resource

Here are some additional resources to aid you in planning a reunion.

BOOKS:

Military Reunion Handbook: A Guide for Reunion Planners, by William R. Masciangelo and Thomas Ninkovich (Reunion Research, 1991).

Reunion Handbook: A Guide for School and Military Reunions, by Thomas Ninkovich (Reunion Research, 1991).

So That's Who You Used to Be!: A Reunion Planning Guide, by Patricia M. Bauer (Patricia McKee Bauer, 1995).

Reunion Planner: The Step by Step Guide Designed to Make Your Reunion a Social and Financial Success, by Linda J. Hoffman (Goodman Lauren, 1999).

WEB SITES:

www.Evite.com allows you to track RSVPs for free.

www.MilitaryUSA.com allows you to list your reunion for free.

Reunions Magazine, located at www.reunionsmag.com, has additional resources, including a feature that will search for reunion venues in the city of your choice.