2019 Reunion - Norfolk
Reunion Tours and Activities
Download and Print the 2019 Reunion Registration Form HereDownload and Print Freemason Lunch Menu Selections Here
FIRST DAY - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Board our bus with our tour guide for a visit to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval station, supporting 75 ships and 134 aircraft alongside 14 piers and 11 aircraft hangars. The base houses the largest concentration of U.S. Navy forces. Air Operations conducts an average of 275 flights per day or one every six minutes. It is the hub for Navy logistics going to the European and Central Command theaters of operations, and to the Caribbean. Navy personnel will board the coach and take us past the 14 piers, through the Naval Air Station, and the historic homes built for the 1907 Jamestown Exposition on “Admiral’s Row” which now house the flag officers. We will have lunch on base.
• We will learn about Norfolk’s colorful history of over three centuries as we ride through the lovely historic district and restored areas. View the stately homes along the Hague, old St. Paul’s Church, the Moses Myers House, the Chrysler Museum of Art, MacArthur Memorial, the historic Freemason District, Nauticus, a maritime center, the Battleship Wisconsin, the restored waterfront area, as well as many other points of interest. Downtown Norfolk has undergone a complete transformation in the last decade and features the beautifully renovated Town Point Park with the Armed Forces memorial, a beautiful $34 million cruise terminal, waterfront condos and state of the art shopping area.
• Next, we’ll visit Nauticus, a unique and thriving campus of visitor attractions that explores the economic, naval, and natural powers of the sea. Features here include a series of interactive exhibits, 3D, high-def films in the 250-person theater, and aquariums of marine life. Also housed here is the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, one of ten museums officially operated by the U.S. Navy. Highlights of the naval battles and exhibits of detailed ship models, artwork, and memorabilia are showcased throughout.
• A true highlight of our visit to Nauticus is a self-guided tour of the Battleship Wisconsin (BB-64). This great ship saw action in WWII, the Korean War and most recently in the Persian Gulf War. The Wisconsin is permanently berthed beside Nauticus where it is accessed by a connecting walkway. Explore the main deck and recently opened portions of the interior to learn about this famous ship, those who fought and served on board and the role that this mighty warship has played in the defense of our nation.
SECOND DAY - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• We depart via motor coach for the charming town of Williamsburg. Our tour guide will provide interesting and informative narration during the ride about the historic Virginia Peninsula and the Coastal Virginia area. Upon arrival, step back into the 18th century as a historical interpreter guides us through the past and the events that helped shape America’s history on a one and one-half hour leisurely walking tour through the restored district. (Actual distance is approximately 4-5 blocks, and is appropriate for those in wheelchairs).
• Following the overview tour, we’ll enjoy free time to shop and browse in the many unique specialty shops in Merchants Square. High quality apparel, gifts, jewelry, beautiful furniture and holiday decorations are but a few of the offerings found in this quaint, picturesque shopping area. You’ll be able to have lunch (on your own) at Merchants Square. Our tour guide will point out all of the dining options as we pass through town.
• We will then spend the afternoon at Jamestown Settlement. Established in 1607, this was the first permanent settlement in the New World. We will enjoy touring the re-created village of Jamestown which chronicles the nation’s 17th century beginnings in Virginia in the context of its Powhatan Indian, English and western central African cultures. Jamestown represents an enduring legacy of language, culture and government. Through an introductory film, "1607: A Nation Takes Root," and expansive 30,000 square foot indoor exhibition galleries, guests will discover the political, social and economic factors that led to the colonization of the New World, the culture of the Powhatan Indians of coastal Virginia at the time of the English arrival, and the first century of the Virginia colony when Jamestown served as its capital. Outside, history comes alive in re-creations of a Powhatan Indian village, a colonial fort, and the three ships - Susan Constant, Godspeed and Discovery - that transported English colonists to Virginia in 1607. Costumed historical interpreters demonstrate work and everyday life of the era and engage visitors in a variety of activities. There will be time to browse the beautiful gift shop for unique "Made in Virginia" items.
THIRD DAY - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 3:30 AM – 10:00 AM
DD-786 Business Meeting
FINAL TOUR 10:15 AM – 3:30 PM
• After our business meeting, we will board the motor coach with our tour guide and enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay as we learn about the history of Virginia’s largest city and get the pulse on current day in Virginia Beach.
• See the First Landing Cross at Cape Henry where the English colonists first came ashore in 1607 prior to settling at nearby Jamestown. Walk out on the overlook to see where the bay and the ocean meet, and where the famous Battle of the Capes took place during the Revolutionary War.
• Enjoy a stop at the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1792, this lighthouse was active until the late 1800’s and is currently a Virginia Historic Landmark. Some may choose to climb to the top of the Lighthouse (small admission fee, pay on own) or shop in the gift shop for all things Lighthouse related.
• We Ride down the resort strip, see the historic Cavalier Hotel as well as the Tidewater Veterans Memorial, a unique structure which pays homage to veterans everywhere.
• We’ll enjoy a delicious meal at the charming Freemason Abbey Restaurant, housed in a 135-year-old renovated church. For nearly thirty years it has been a local’s favorite restaurant, featuring a varied menu with something for everyone. The décor is reminiscent of English style pub houses and has a warm, casual yet elegant tavern atmosphere. Lunch is provided. You have your choice of the following: 1. Seafood Quiche or 2. Abbey Club Sandwich or 3. Waldorf Chicken Salad Sandwich. Click her for details and lunch selection form.
• We’ll visit the MacArthur Memorial for a glimpse into our country’s history. Here we will view the outstanding collection housed in Norfolk's historic city hall which trace the life and achievements of five-star General Douglas MacArthur. We will also have the opportunity to view the short film which chronicles the General’s life. The General and Mrs. MacArthur are entombed in the rotunda of the memorial. Nine separate galleries arranged in two levels circle the rotunda and tell the story of General MacArthur and the millions of American men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces from the Civil War through the Korean War. A gift shop with unique memorabilia is located on the premises.
• Finally, we will enjoy a stop at Doumar’s, home of the world’s first ice cream cone machine. Abe Doumar created the first ice cream cone at the World’s Fair of 1904 in St. Louis. It was so successful that he designed a four-iron waffle machine that he launched during the Jamestown Exposition of 1907. Today, the family business still bakes cones on the original cone machine. While at Doumar’s, guests will be given an introduction and history and everyone will be treated to an ice cream and cone.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Ship’s Banquet – Featured After Dinner Speaker - Commander John Gaines, C.O. of the USS Arleigh Burke DDG-51 (first in class)
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2019
FAREWELL