to be the best spot and they helped in all the arrangements. As a result, 133 people attended the first reunion over the 1975 July fourth weekend. During that reunion, it was decided to do it again. Our roster was growing and there were 170 present in July 1976.

Our roster was growing steadily. One of the big reasons for this growth was Don Lassen's Static Line [magazine]. He has given the 508 a column and this has brought in a large portion of the names we have on our roster. We are eternally grateful to Don for his assistance. (thanks Don.)

Presently we have over 1300 names on our roster, including widows and honorary members from our overseas friends. The first meeting was held around the pool at the Marriott. It was decided that we should be a last man organization. It was also decided that, if possible, we should operate on contributions from our members. Anyone who served in the 508 between October 1942 and December 1945 was eligible for membership.

Over the years, we have completed numerous projects in the name of the 508 Parachute Infantry Regiment of WW II. In Chef du Pont, we have built a park and caused a monument to be erected at the entrance. Across the road from the park, is a monument erected by the people of Chef du Pont, honoring the 508.

Virtually every town hall in our area of Normandy has a 508 plaque on the wall. The main street thru Chef du Pont, is now named Rue Rex Combs of our "A" company. There is also a Rue Zane Schlemer named after Zane of our Headquarters 2nd.

In Nottingham, England, we have a monument and a tree in Wollaton park. Also, in one of the building's is a mini museum in honor of the 508. There are numerous monuments throughout Belgium in honor of the 508. These were erected by the citizens there to show their appreciation for our efforts there during the Battle of The Bulge.

In Beek, Holland, there is a beautiful monument in the center of another park. This park is named after John Foley of "A" company for his action on Devil's Hill during the liberation of Holland in September 1944. It is perhaps the most beautiful tribute to our regiment and the men who served in it. Throughout the years, fresh flowers are always present on the monument. As in France, the city halls in both Belgium and Holland have 508 plaques on their walls. It is doubtful if the 508 will ever be forgotten in England or Europe.

And so, there it is . . . 50 years of our regiment. We can be proud of the fact that we have set the standard by which all future 508ers will be judged. We were forged in the crucible of a war time situation and we were found to have "the right stuff". A presidential unit citation and special recognition by France, Holland, and Belgium attest to our professionalism.

It was our wartime association that developed this special bonding of love and affection that binds us so tightly together and continues to become stronger as the years go by.