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President Bush's Letter to The Crew

Before anything else, you should understand that The Capitol Reunion was successful, filled with activities, and thoroughly enjoyed by all the attendees despite the timing and  location.

After an exhaustive effort in developing a very exclusive tour itinerary, it was all turned upside down by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.  Because of the impossibility of securing air transportation into Reagan airport, many travelers were forced to cancel their attendance.  VIP tours of the White House and Capitol were cancelled.  A morning on board the USS Barry was scuttled due to security restrictions.  Last minute rescheduling was being worked out during the early morning hours of the reunion from a hotel room in Fairfax.  A decision to cancel the reunion was considered but discarded almost immediately.  We were determined that the USS Manley (DD-940) Association would stand in defiance.

You will read on these pages the result of our determination and you will feel the pride of this great organization.  The Association President extends a grateful salute to all those who attended and labored to ensure this this gathering of shipmates and friends would succeed even under the most trying conditions.  After all, it is ingrained into our character never to surrender.  We may as a nation lose a few battles as time unfolds but we shall not perish in this war that will ultimately visit our households.

This page last updated 26 September 2009