See you all at one of our Next Reunions 

God Willing

2025 Reunion Information

See you all at the 2023 Reunion 

God Willing

2022 REGISTRATIONS

Click Here

My last update to the website before the reunion, will be this Saturday July 31st, 2021 at 4:30pm  I'll be driving to the reunion this year. See you all at the reunion. God willing

1st Reconnaissance Battalion Reunion

Schedule of Events

 

 1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association members, family and friends,

You are cordially invited to join the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association at its 2022 Reunion held
in tandem with the 75th Annual Reunion of the 1st Marine Division Association, 16-22 August 2022,
in Arlington, Virginia.

Reunion registration, hotel reservations, and planned events information is included in this email.
Join your reconnaissance team-mates in Arlington at the 2022 reunion.

Semper fidelis,
Charlie Kershaw

2022 Reunion Essential Elements of Information


Harborsite:
Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel
900 South Orme Street
Arlington, VA 22204
Hotel Reservations:
Telephone: (703) 521-1900
FAX: (703) 271-6626
Website: Sheraton Pentagon City
Reunion Group Code: FM1


Reunion Group Rate available for August 13-22. Room rate: $125 one king bed, plus
14.25% tax. Total: $142.81.


Complimentary breakfast for up to two persons per room


Transportation. Free shuttle from/to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
The Hotel does not provide transport for Washington Dulles Airport (25 miles). Super
Shuttle may be a good alternative from/to Dulles.


Parking: Overnight parking is $15.00 for Reunion attendees.


Hotel reservations should be made by Friday, July 29, 2022; date may be extended.


1st MarDiv Association Scheduled Events ( 1st Recon Assn events in blue ):


Tuesday, August 16: Registration and check-in begins at Henderson Hall. Recon
Hospitality Suite opens .


Wednesday, August 17: Registration. Buses to National Mall monuments and museums.


Thursday, August 18: Buses to USMC Museum. Recon – Buses to Marine Corps
Museum. 1300-1330 Memorial Service at Memorial Chapel. Return to Harborsite.
Cocktails and Dinner 1800-2100 at Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel(menu selection and cost
to follow).


Friday, August 19: Morning Memorial Service. Dinner at 8th & I; Evening Parade.


Saturday, August 20: Recon General Membership Meeting 1000-1200; Division General
Membership and Committee meetings, Ladies Lunch, Reunion Banquet.


Sunday, August 21: Check-out and departure, but hotel group rate is available through

Reunion Registration. The Reunion Registration Form link follows. Registration to be
completed by 31July (may be extended).


Registration will be $55 for primary registrant, and one guest, spouse, or significant other.
Contacts : Sheraton Pentagon Hotel for any reservation issues - Jada Chavez, phone 703-
521-1900, email jada.chavez@sheratonpentagoncity.com​


1st Marine Division Association - June Cormier, (760)763-3268,
or june.oldbreed@fmda.us for information and registration, Call if you need a
Registration Form mailed to you.

**************************************************************


1st Recon Battalion Association - Hotel reservations, registration, attendance, Recon
events, dinner meal selection, payment and other questions. Contact Charlie Kershaw,
Email: invictus7@earthlink.net ; Cell: 760 402-8638. Reservations and payment for
Recon Association dinner should be sent to Creg Howland Association Treasurer at 43761
Churchill Glen Drive Chantilly, VA 20152. Email: creghowland@gmail.com/703 786-5788.

Steve,

Thanks for replying to my email. We will miss you at this years reunion. I'll post your message in our guest book.
Stay safe and maybe I'll see you at the next year's reunion. Take care brother.

Semper fi,
Floyd Ruggles,
Membership Director & Webmaster

On July 30, 2021 2:19 PM 

Name: steven R swift
Address: 3916 W 4th St Tulsa OK 74127
Email: swift1956@yahoo.com
Phone number: (918) 991-1597
Guest Book Message: old broke marine ,, miss the recon bn. if i had the cash , i would be there.
semper fi marines.

Bill,

Thanks for replying to my email. We will miss you at this years reunion. I'll post your message & Photos on our message board.
Stay safe and maybe I'll see you at the next year's reunion. Take care brother.

Semper fi,
Floyd Ruggles,
Membership Director & Webmaster

Thanks Floyd.  I look forward to next year.  Say hello to Charlie Kershaw and Jim Fossos for me for me. 

Remembering my friends buddies; Mike Smith, Ron Kitzke, Joe Hill and JJ Jones……

 

Cheers; Bill

Bill,

Look forward to seeing you next year. I will say hi to Charlie & Jim for you.

Floyd

Last minute emails from members

July 31, 2021 9:27 AM Michael McManus <mmcmanus2128@gmail.com> wrote:


Sir – I appreciate all your work in support of the 1st Recon Bn.  Assoc.  I served in the Bn. In ’65, ’66, ’68 and ’69.  During this time I served in Delta, Alpha and H&S (Housewife) Co.’s.  One email will suffice.  Again, thanks for your service and I hope you have a good time at the reunion.


Semper Fi,

Michael P. McManus

Sgt                 USMC

____

BT

Thanks for the kind words my brother, take care.

Floyd

Greetings Floyd,

I won’t be attending the 1st Recon Battalion Reunion, but wanted to take this opportunity to check-in, say hello and wish my fellow recon marines the very best. Once a Recon Marine, Always a Recon Marine.

Semper Fi,
Dave Ballaine (Capt. USMCR)
Commanding Officer
Alpha Company
1st Recon Bn., Camp Pendleton
1962

July 31st, 2021 12:45pm

Sir,

Thanks for checking in, I appreciate you reply to my email. We will miss you at this year's reunion. Hope to see at next year's reunion. Take care of yourself.

Semper fi,
Floyd Ruggles
1st Recon Battalion Association
Membership Director & Webmaster

Paul,
 
Thanks for the great questions. I could probably answer the questions, (1) I'm sure the Marine Corps has extra ear plugs (2) on the arriving late I've been in that position myself in the past. I would volunteer to pick up your packet, but I'm going to refer these questions on to Charlie Kershaw his email is invictus7@earthlink.net So he can answer them for you. If you don't get and answer to your question soon just give me a jingle at (612) 810-4196 and I'll bring it up in my conference call with Charlie tomorrow. Keep in mind that I'll be on the road tomorrow on my way to Oceanside, so it might be a delay for me to get back to you. I'll see you at the reunion.
 
Floyd

July 31, 2021 1:13 PM Paul Barrett <pgbarret247@att.net> wrote:
 
 
Floyd:

Re schedule of events… a couple of questions…

·         If we arrive after 1900 on Wed evening… How/where do we pick up registration packet?

·         Range time/ live firing … do we need to bring our own ear plugs?

 

S/F

Paul Barrett

1ST RECONNASSAINCE BATTALION

ASSOCIATION

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association

4 – 7 August 2021

2021 Reunion

 

Schedule of Events

 

Wednesday, 4 August

1100 – 1900  Registration Reunion

          Harborside Holiday Inn,

          1401 Carmelo Drive, Oceanside CA

          (760)231-7000

                           

1730 – 2000  Social & dinner

          Pacific Views Event Center

          202850 San Jacinto Rd,

          Camp Pendleton CA 92055

          Shuttle service available

 

Thursday, 5 August

0730 – 0830 Coffee & Donuts

0830  Bus departs Holiday Inn for Las Flores, 41 Area

0900 – 1200  1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 41 Area, Camp Pendleton, CA,

          Command briefing and weapons and equipment display

1200 – 1300  Lunch 41 Area Dining Facility

1300 – 1530  Range 110. Weapons demonstration & live fire exercise

1545  Return to Harborside. Free time.

Friday, 6 August

0730 – 0830 Coffee & Donuts

0830  Depart Harborside

0930 – 1130  Basic Reconnaissance Course

          (BRC) Orientation, 52 Area

1130 – 1230  Lunch School of the Infantry

1230  Return to Harborside

1400 – 1530  General Membership Meeting Harborside

1730 – 2100  Reunion Dinner. Casual attire.

          Shuttle service available

 

Saturday, 7 August

Depart and Travel

July 31, 2021 12:10 AM Herman Jonse < herman.jonse@gmail.com> wrote:

Floyd, 

Thanks for the update. I noticed on the schedule of events for Friday, 6 August we depart Harborsite at 0830. No mention of transportation. Is this an over site?   Will transportation be provided to 52 area and SOI or do we hoof it? Be safe driving and see you soon. 

S/F 

Herman

Jul 31, 2021, at 12:47 AM, floyd < floyd@weststpaulantiques.com> wrote:

Herman,

Thanks for the email, Its a work in Progress, I'll check with Charlie Kershaw & David "Doc" Snyder and give you and update on the transportation soon.

Floyd

 July 31, 2021 3:43 PM John Grandusky <grandusky@gmail.com> wrote:


Thanks for the update! Hope to see you at another reunion.

Steve (Sky)

Jul 31, 2021, at 12:48 AM, 

Floyd,

The Association strongly suggests that UBER, LYFT, or rental be used.

S/f
Dave ‘Doc’ Snider

Charlie:

Re schedule of events… a  question…  Floyd suggested I contact you on this one…

If we arrive after 1900 on Wed evening… How/where do we pick up registration packet?

 

S/F

Paul Barrett

Looking forward to it old friend.

Floyd

July 31, 2021 1:12 PM C. Kershaw <invictus7@earthlink.net> wrote:


Floyd and Dave,

The most current reunion schedule is forwarded for posting on our web sites. I will send a reunion update and this schedule to individual registrants.
Thanks for your help getting the word out.
See you in Oceanside.

Semper fi,
Charlie

Charlie,

Thanks for the update. I have a number of questions from members.


Is there a bus to the BRC on Friday or how do they get there.


For members arriving after the registration desk has closed, where and when can they pick up their materials. Will someone be holding them for them so they can get them before the bus leaves Thursday morning.


For people that are driving into Camp Pendleton, what protocols need to be followed, masks? ids? other ??


Do we need to bring our own earplugs.

Can I get a final count/update on a total staying at the hotel and the ones that are coming to the dinner.

What day are we actually have the auction and do we have donations for that?

This is a new question just came in from one of our member. As to covid-19, masks or hand sanitizer is that going be available for members?

Please get back to me ASAP. The last update of the website that I can do before leaving for CA is at 4:30 CDT today.


Semper fi,
Floyd

July 31, 2021 10:57 AM Rick Alvira <stcrispin2006@yahoo.com> wrote:


Outstanding! Thank you. Nice work.

Thanks Rick

"See you all at the reunion. God willing"

Sorry, Floyd, but God ain't willing - can't make the reunion - but will be there in spirit

Fred Vogel
A/1st Recon 7/68 - 2/69

What is the meaning of phrase God willing?
—used to say what one hopes and expects to do or happen if no problems occur We'll be able to move into our new house next week, God willing. God willing, I'll finish my degree this year.

Fred,

Thanks for replying brother hopefully I'll see you at next year's reunion, God Willing

 Floyd

July 31, 2021 9:17 AM Frederick John VOGEL <vogelfj@hotmail.com> wrote:

***************************************

***************************************

1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association members, family and friends:

A Reunion Update and Schedule of Events are provided for your information.

I look forward to seeing you in Oceanside. Stay well and travel safely.

Semper fidelis,

Charlie Kershaw

1 st Reconnaissance Battalion Association Reunion Update

COVID Policy. Mandatory Wearing of Mask aboard Installations. In accordance with SECDEF MEMO dated 28JUL21, MCB CAMPEN, MCAS CAMPEN, MCLB Barstow and MCAS Miramar are considered by the CDC (and DOD) to be in an area of high community transmission of COVID. Until further notice, all Service Members, federal employees, onsite contractor employees, and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask in indoor settings onboard the installation (Masks are not required while dining indoors).

Expect further COVID mitigation measures to be put in place by either local commanders or by the SECDEF if COVID numbers continue to rise exponentially as has been experienced in the areas surrounding the installations AND onboard our installations.

If you are unable to accept this mask wearing policy, the Association will refund reunion registration and dinner payments; contact Creg Howland, Association Treasurer.

Weather and Dress. Oceanside/Camp Pendleton weather during the reunion is forecast to be dry, with temperatures in the mid-high 70s. Hydrate. Sun screen and hats are appropriate. Dress comfortably and wear shoes appropriate for walking.

Transportation. Travel from local airports to the Holiday Inn is the individual’s choice. UBER/LYFT and rental cars may be good options. The Association will provide transportation for unit visits on base meals. Member POVs are not recommended for unit visits..

Reunion Events . A reunion schedule of events is attached. Dress casually for the Friday 6 August dinner. Beach attire is not recommended.

Regrets. Wish I could make it to the reunion. Circumstances prevent. (No, I'm not incarcerated 🤡) Have friends and relatives in Carlsbad and Vista and it would really be great, but no can do.

Please give my regards to all of my brothers in arms.

John Reed, HMCM (FMF), USN Retired
Delta 3rd, 09/66 - 09/67

July 31, 2021 1:26 AM jreedsr@charter.net wrote:

See you next year.

Floyd

Charlie,

Thanks for the update. I look forward to seeing you in Oceanside.

Semper fi,

Floyd

2021 Reunion

75th Annual Reunion
16 August – 21 August 2022

1st MARINE DIVISION ASSOCIATION ACTIVITY REGISTRATION FORM

1st Recon Battalion Association Dinner

The 1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association will hold its reunion dinner on 18 August at the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel, 900 South Orme Street, Arlington,VA.

Cocktails are 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm and dinner 6:00pm - 9:00pm. Casual attire is recommended. The dinner meal includes: a field greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette,short ribs braised in red wine, with fig bordelaise garlic mashed potatoes and Chef’s choice grilled vegetables; and strawberry shortcake. Iced tea, Starbucks Coffee regular or decaffeinated coffee, and a selection of Tazo teas. Guests requiring an alternate meat or vegetarian meal contact
Charlie Kershaw at (760) 402-8638.

Dinner is $50.00 per person. Guests should make their reservation as soon as possible by phone (703 786-5788) or email CregHowland@gmail.com

Payment may be made at the Reunion or mail your reservations and checks to: 1st Recon Bn Assn,
c/o Creg Howland, 43761 Churchill Glen Drive, Chantilly, VA 20152.


Semper fidelis,
Floyd

Email from: Herman Jonse
I will be attending the dinner. Thanks for the info.

Email from: James M Armstrong

I really thank you for inviting me
I can not make this

Having great difficulties with heat and breathing due to Agent Orange

Please keep my in your prayers and notifications

Moe Armstrong
Medical Corpsman with both First and Third Recon

Email from:  Robert J. Fawcett

Floyd,

 

Thanks for your continuing efforts to get the word out on the reunion. 

 

Although I live in Northern Virginia, we will be away at the time of the reunion and will be unable to attend. 

 

Semper Fi, Bob

 

Robert J. Fawcett

US Marine (ret)

Take care of yourself my brother...


Semper fidelis,
Floyd

Email from: Terry D. Barkovich

Floyd,
I mailed the Bob Crane photo to Charlie Kershaw to bring to the convention and donate to Recon Bn for their HQ.

Emil from: Rudolph "Rudy" Fontane - H&S DEC. 65 - MARCH 66

Floyd enjoy
Give my best Charlie Kershaw
I am scheduled to be in Daytona for MCL National Convention
Believe me would rather be at 1st Recon

Email from: Ralph M. Witkin

Gentlemen:

  Just wanted to let you know everything was squared away this morning.  Both Jada Chavez at the hotel and June Cormier at First Marine Division Assoc were very cooperative. 

 

  I scanned & emailed to June my division registration.  Jada added the group code to my reservation at the hotel.

 

  We’ll be arriving at Reagan airport on Sunday, Aug 14th at 10:15am.  Our flight back to Vegas leaves on the 21st at 8:40pm

 

  I’ve been to Washington a few times in the past 10 years or so, and remember parking being extremely difficult (and expensive), so as of now, I’m not planning on renting a car – unless someone more familiar with DC recommends that I do so.

 

  This will be my first ever Division reunion.  I did casually indicate last year in Oceanside that I’m both available & willing to help our Recon Association with future reunions (apparently at age 73, I’m among the youngest), so just let me know what needs to be done.

 

“It’s just not necessary to do extraordinary things, to produce extraordinary results.”

Ralph M. Witkin

Terry,

Thanks for the photo. I do not know names of the team or the members. But I'll post it on the our website. We'll see if we can find out some information on the team or the members in the photo..

Terry Barkovich wrote:


Floyd,
I have a photo given to me by a former team mates family after he died many years ago. It has Bob Crane in it. 1972 Dont know who these men are.

--
Terry D. Barkovich
Technical Service Engineer (ret)
Lead Rifle Builder/ SME
Precision Weapons Shop
US Special Operations Command

Gentlemen,

Attached is the guidance for our reunion dinner on 18 August. Please post it on our website and your social media sites.
Members attending the dinner are encouraged to make their reservation as soon as possible. Payment may be made at the reunion.

Thanks for your help.

Semper fi,
Charlie

Sorry to hear about the forest fires. We should be out west for reunion next year. Maybe we'll see you, take care my brother. Have a great time in Jamaica.
Linda and I spend some time in Jamaica years ago. Check out the Jamaican Ram Factory "Appleton Estate" it is a good outing for a day trip.

S/F
Floyd

Email from: Geoffrey "Geoff" Harp (Alpha Company 11/25/1967-12/10/1968)

Hi Floyd,

Patty, and I won’t be able to make it to the reunion, as we will be in Jamaica celebrating our 38th anniversary. When another reunion is scheduled, and located on the western side of the U.S., we should be able to show up.


It’s hotter than hell here in Montana, and we’re hoping that another bad forest fire season doesn’t begin. Hope you, and yours are all well.


Semper Fi, my brother,
Geoff

2022 Reunion


78th Annual Reunion

1st Marine Division Association & 1st Recon Battalion Association
11 - 17 August 2025

Posting by Ralph Witkin 5/27/2023

Reunion update, of sorts.
Received my Blue Diamond news from division. They are taking a poll regarding excursions so nothing is set as of yet. They're looking for feedback. Don't answer me, the poll is on the newsletter email and interactive.
Leatherneck bar? Dinner there for about $40 each? (please note that the battalion is already planning on going there and the range on Thursday August 17th)
Nellis Air Base and the Thunderbird museum?
Visit the Mob museum?
Hoover Dam est. $80 each?
Party bus tour of Vegas?
Ladies luncheon on Saturday August 19 est. $35 each?
Saturday Night banquet August 19 est. $65 each?

Our President Charlie Charles Kershaw will continue to update us on our plans. As of now, Thursday August 17th is Leatherneck Lounge and American Shooters range across the street. Check their website and special packages to choose from. Serious fire power boys.
https://americanshooters.com/
Friday during the day we'll have our business meeting and in the evening, we'll have our battalion dinner and fund raising auction. Bring your goodies, it's for a good cause. This auction is one of the big reasons we don't have dues.
Also, note that by doing our business on Thursday and Friday, we can really shorten our stay in a very expensive city. Charlie was very concerned about the cost. You can come as early and stay as late as your choose but you don't have to. The division is scheduling their reunion for August 13-20. We're scheduling ours for August 17-18.
Semper Fi
Here's the particulars for the reunion.
Orleans Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas
website orleanscasino.com
phone 800-675-3267
Give Group Number FMDH23C for our group rate.

Ralph Witkin
Yes, Recon is planning on having lunch at the Leatherneck Club on Thurs -- it's not the type of place I would recommend for dinner. I would recommend the Mob Museum (downtown). The Party Bus Tour sounds interesting, but I'd like some details. I haven't been able to find out the per night charges for the Orleans Hotel, but most hotels in Vegas charge a lot more on Saturday than the rest of the week (Friday should be less than Sat, but more than Thurs).


Reply: Ronald Overton
Ralph Witkin thanks, Ralph. Note to group, Ralph lives there so is our go to guy for questions. SF


Reply: Ralph Witkin
I don't know much about the Party Bus tours. I'm guessing that they're mostly about stopping at a few of the "clubs" inside the more upscale hotels on the Strip. This is mostly for a younger crowd (probably 20's & 30's) and the clubs are ridiculously expensive by my standards (and I'm far from "cheap"). I could be wrong, but I'm thinking of bachelor parties. I did contact Jerry C at the Division Assoc for more details. btw -- for those of you unfamiliar with Vegas in the last 20 years or so, the "clubs" have somewhat replaced the old-school Vegas "shows" for younger people (especially singles) and are B-I-G money makers for the hotels.


Reply: Ralph Witkin
I just went on the Orleans website (wasn't able to use the group code) and these are their AAA/Senior Citizen/Military rates (it figures about $200 more for 7 nights than the rate Division is quoting) -- Sun $118; Mon $108; Fri $235 & Sat $266. Those rates could easily change a few times between now & August, but it gives you a clue what extra or fewer days will mean. Friday night is more than double either Sunday or Monday, and Saturday is even more. My numbers include tax & Resort Fee.

Past Reunions

7/7/2023

Reunion Update 

Let The Good Times Roll

1st Recon Battalion Association

Merchandise

Email from: Ott Reid <radpatsfan@msn.com>

Floyd,
would you please send the reservation form for the reunion to me. Somehow I stupidly deleted it and i need to get our check and money in.

Thanks, S/f, once and always

Otter Reid

P.S. Got some cool stuff for the auction!

We are now taking orders for 1 st Recon Battalion Association
merchandise to be delivered at the Las Vegas reunion as well
as direct mail to the home.


Due to manufacturing and purchasing limitations, orders for
Recon belt buckles, challenge coins, and golf shirts will be
handled as follows:


For both reunion and home delivery please email Doc Snider
at docsnidley@aol.com (513-607-9184) to place your order.
All pre-orders for both reunion delivery and home mailing


MUST BE RECEIVED BY FRIDAY, JULY 17.


For reunion deliveries bring a check for $33.00/buckle
made out to 1st Recon Bn Assoc. I should have Prices for
the other items shortly.
Pre-orders for mail delivery MUST ALSO BE RECEIVED
BY FRIDAY, JULY 17. All items ordered for delivery will
be charged an extra $6.00 to pay for postage. Do not send
any money for home deliveries until the product is in hand.

A message from your webmaster and membership director.

I called the hotel today and got the rates.  Rate for Sunday through Thursday nights is $54, Friday night is $109 and Saturday night is $119. In addition there is a resort fee of $36.99 per night. Tax is 13% for both. Rates are good until July 14th, 2023.  Photos & Virtual Tours 

Just copy this form and mail it in. This supports the 1st Marine Division Association. 

Information on upcoming reunions.

You can make your plans.

See you all at the Next Reunion 

God Willing

Newest 2023 Reunion & Emails Updates

August 8th, 2023 - 5:45 P.M. 

The 2023 Reunion

Email from Irene White <slack8919@gmail.com> 
7/5/2023 9:53 PM

Thanks for the info Floyd. Don't know if I'll be able to attend. I go in for shoulder surgery on August 4. We'll see.

Semper Fi
Den

Den,

Good luck in the your upcoming surgery hope everything goes well for you.

S/F
Floyd

Email from Thomas Jensen <tljensen60@att.net>
7/5/2023 7:07 PM

Staying in touch

Floyd, I’am still here Please keep me in the loop. I will not be able to attend any reunions. But , like to be in the know.

Semper Fi
Sgt. T L Jensen
Retired Navy Senior Chief SEABEES

Thomas,

Nice to hear from you.

You will always be kept in the loop. Just keep your information up to date. Sorry you will not be able to attend the reunion. But follow us on the website I will be posting photos as soon as I get back from the reunion. I'll post this email on the reunion web page at: https://1streconbn.org/reunions.html Hopefully you'll hear from some of our members. Stay in touch my brother....

Semper Fi,
Floyd Ruggles
Membership Director & Webmaster

Email from Ralph M. Witkin <witkinr@gmail.com>
7/5/2023 6:59 PM

Thanks Charlie and same to you.  Looking forward to seeing everybody next month.  I do have some busing info for you regarding the Leatherneck Club & American Shooters.  

“It’s just not necessary to do extraordinary things, to produce extraordinary results.”

Ralph M. Witkin             

Email from herman jonse <herman.jonse@gmail.com>
7/4/2023 8:46 PM

Floyd,
Charlie sent out an email on 6/9/23 with two attachments. The doc that I can not open is the 1stRecon doc that has the schedule for 1stRecon reunion and info for Thurs and Fridays events. I'm in the dark. When you have time please send it to me ie pdf so I can view and print it off.. I recall we had to make our dinner choice and pay in advance last year for our recon dinner by a cut off date. Is it on our website? Thanks.
s/f
Herman

Herman,

Can you forward your 6/9/23 email to me. I did not receive that email. I do not have a 1st recon schedule for events, prices & times. What I have is on the website check it out... I'm in the dark also......

Floyd             

Email from herman jonse <herman.jonse@gmail.com>
7/4/2023 3:30 AM

Floyd,

Happy Fourth of July to you and Linda/ family.. Thanks for the offer my friend but I'll stay at the hotel. Hatsumi will not make it this time, her Mom is 96 and on a slippery slope and she will be returning to Okinawa as a caretaker in the near future. I like the picture of your Dad on our website.

I'll arrive on 8/16 and depart 8/19/ Flying Southwest. See you soon my friend. Take care.

Semper Fi,

Herman

Email sent to Herman Jonse,

7/4/2023 1:30AM

Herman,

Hope all is well with you and your family. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July. Just a reminder for our up-and-coming reunion in Las Vegas, Nevada. Auqust 16-19, 2023 at the Orleans Hotel & Casino. For more information check out our web page at this link: https://1streconbn.org/reunions.html

Hope to see you and maybe your wife this year. Linda and I booked our timeshare at the Grandview at 9940 Las Vegas Boulevard South from Auqust 12th through the 19th it's about 8 miles from the Orleans Hotel & Casino and 5 to10 minutes from the Airport. It's a two bedroom suite with cooking facilities. You're welcome to one of the bedrooms it's you're for the taking my brother. Just let me know as soon as possible if you're interested. If you have any questions don't hesitate to email me 24/7 at floyd@weststpaulantiques.com or just text me. Check out our website from time to time at: https://1streconbn.org/

Semper Fi,

Floyd            

1st RECONNAISSANCE         BATTALION ASSOCIATION

                         

The 1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association’s 2023 reunion will be held in concert with the 1st Marine Division Association’s 76th Annual Reunion at the Orleans Hotel and Casino Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Essential Elements of Information for the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion Association Reunion follow. 

Location and Date.   Orleans Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.  1st Marine Division Association 13-20 August 2023; 1st Recon reunion events are 16-19 August. 

Hotel Reservations.  Reservations may be made online at the Orleans website:  orleanscasino.com or by telephone at:  800 675-3267.  The Reunion Group Reservation Number is:  FMDH23C.  The reunion room rate is in effect until 14 July or when the block is sold out. 

Transportation.   Airport to hotel shuttle service is available for guests at the airport Arrivals level.  In addition, Division Association has contracted with a shuttle service to transport reunion guests from the Las Vegas airport to the Orleans Hotel and return for $20.00 per family.  Shuttle reservations should be made on the reunion registration form.   

Reunion Registration.  Reunion guests should complete and mail the attached Division Association Registration form (attached) as soon as possible but not later than 25 July.   

Reunion Activities.  Division Association reunion activities are listed on the attached registration form. Recon Association activities.

The Leatherneck Club.  Thursday, 17 August, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm.  Swap sea stories and enjoy a BBQ  buffet lunch ($30.00 per person) which includes pulled pork, chicken, baked beans, coleslaw and fresh rolls.   

American Shooters Range (adjacent to Leatherneck Club).  American Shooters (Americanshooters.com).  Weapons firing and a pistol marksmanship competition, open to Association members and adult family members.

Shuttle transportation to/from 17 August activities will be provided by 1st Recon Association.

General Membership Meeting.  Orleans Hotel, Friday 18 August 10:00 am -12:00 pm.     

Association Banquet 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm.  Orleans Hotel.  Dinner, at $65.00 per person, includes an appetizer, flat Iron steak or chicken marsala entrees and dessert.  Vegan meals are available on request.  Regretably, the Orleans can accommodate only 70 diners.  Reservations will be on a “first come, first served basis”.  

Coordinating Instructions.  

Dave Snider (docsnidley@aol.com )will take orders for 1st Recon memorabilia, such as polo shirts, belt buckles, and challenge coins.  Items will be available for pick-up at the reunion.  Otherwise, these items will be mailed to those members unable to at the reunion.  

As you know, the Association does not require membership dues.  Donations and the live auction are our primary source of funds.   Bring a donation for the live auction.  We need an auctioneer.  If you are willing to try your  hand at being the reunion auctioneer, contact Ron Overton.

The Thursday BBQ lunch is $30.00 per person and the Friday dinner is $65.00 per person.  Reservations and checks should be made out to 1st Recon Battalion Association and mailed to Creg Howland, 43761 Churchill Glen Drive, Chantilly, VA 20152 not later than 10 August 2023. 

I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas.

Semper fidelis,

Charlie             Charles Kershaw

                             760 402-8638

                             Invictus7@earthlink.net 

For New Updates

The 2023 Reunion

2024 Reunion Information & Emails Updates.

On Jul 26, 2024, at 3:59 PM, CKershaw <invictus7@earthlink.net> wrote:

1st Recon Battalion Association members, family and friends,

Our annual reunion is fast approaching and I want to ensure you have the latest reunion information.

The 2024 Reunion will be held in San Antonio, Texas 19 -25 August (1st Recon events are scheduled 22 - 25 August). A 1st MarDiv Association Reunion registration form is included with this email. Register as soon as possible while reunion rooms are still available.

The reunion hotel is the San Antonio Riveerwalk Holiday Inn, 217 Saint Mary’s Street San Antonio, Texas78025. Make your room reservation with Yolanda at: 210 272-1515. The reunion
Group Code is FMD.

After you have checked in at the Holiday Inn, join your recon team-mates in the Recon hospitality suite.


Recon events include:
Thursday 22 August. 1:00 - 4:00 pm visit the Alamo.
Friday, 23 August 2-4 pm visit 4th Recon; Texas BBQ dinner and live auction
Saturday, 24 August. 10 - 11 am General Membership Meeting

6:00- 10:00 pm Farewell Banquet (men - formal attire with miniatures, dress blues
with ribbons and badges, coat and tie. Ladies: cocktail dresses)

Sunday Check out & departure.

Your team-mates and I look forward to seeing you in San Antonio.

Semper fidèles,

Charlie

San Antonio Riveerwalk Holiday Inn,

217 Saint Mary’s Street San Antonio, Texas 78025.

herman jonse <herman.jonse@gmail.com>

Floyd,

See you soon, thanks for your hard work on the newsletter and website.

S/F

Herman

Roland Huegel <rchrecon@gmail.com>

I don't think I'll make it this year, Floyd. I'm still recovering from my 12th (and probably final) trip back to Viet Nam. Thanks for sending all of the updates!

Ron Huegel
1st Force Recon 1/71-8/70
B Co., 1st Recon 8/70-1/71

My flight arrives at 3PM on Wed (8/21) and my return flight departs at 2PM on Sat (8/24). Be safe on the road if you are driving. See you soon my friend and brother.

Herman

On 07/30/2024 10:18 AM EDT waymor@bizec.rr.com wrote:

Floyd:

Hope you're doing well. We have moved from Jacksonville, NC, to Tusculum, TN. Altho having a difficult time getting our WAYMOR Inc effort back in battery w/re to a business account with COMCAST, we "THINK" our new email address will be:

waymor-new@comcast.net

Plz make that change...thx.

Hope the Reunion goes well. Getting more an more difficult for a lot of us to make such great events. We had a 3d Force Reunion in JVILLE a couple months back. Pretty good attendance BUT our numbers are dwindling.

Semper Fi,

Lobo Sendz

Wayne V. Morris
Col USMC (Ret

Sir,
It's nice to hear from you. Hopefully we'll see you at a reunion soon. Semper Fi, Floyd Ruggles. Membership Director & Webmaster

Emails

On 07/31/2024 4:44 PM EDT herman jonse <herman.jonse@gmail.com> wrote:

Did our Bravo Company Flag show up? If I recall correctly someone allowed the flag to be taken.I hope it was returned by now.

See you soon, thanks for your hard work on the newsletter and website.
S/F
Herman

Herman,

Nice to hear from you .
As to your question about the Bravo Company Flag showing up.
I'm not sure of the answer. I'll send a copy of this email
to Charlie and see if he can respond to your question.

I would like to know myself, I talked to him last reunion about it,
He told me that he would be tracking it down.

See you in San Antonio.

Floyd

Email: 8/8/2024 10:05 AM

See you all at the Reunion 

God Willing

Email: On 08/12/2024 1:55 PM EDT Paul Barrett <pgbarret247@att.net> wrote:

Creg:

I have mailed you a gift donation of $400 for Assn Reunion related expenses or as needed.

Unfortunately, I am unable to attend this year.

Best wishes to all!

 

S/F

Paul Barrett

Thanks Paul,

The association will definitely be able to use it, I appreciate it Paul.
Thanks for your support.

Semper Fi,
Floyd Ruggles
Membership Director & Webmaster

Follow-up email: Auqust 13th, 2024

Charlie,
Can you please respond to Herman's email?
Thanks for your time in this sensitive question.

All our brother from Bravo company is waiting for the answer.

Semper Fi, Floyd Ruggles,Membership Director & Webmaster

More information and emails for this up-and-coming

2024 reunion.

Last update

8/7/2025

San Antonio, Texas 2010

Photos

2024 Reunion photo gallery is available 10 pages/parts.

78th Annual Reunion in Quantico, Virginia 


Pre-Registration 
More Information 

Please note updated Group Code and hotel phone numbers


Hotel: Sheraton Pentagon City Book by July 10th, 2025

Link: Marriott/Sheraton Reservations

Room rate: $159

Group Code: FMDFMDB

Reservations: 1-888-236-2427

Front desk: 703-521-1900

Complimentary WiFi, Overnight parking $15


Complimentary Buffet Breakfast.

The breakfast is included only if you book through the hotel, using the group code FMDFMDB. Bookings through discount brokers do not credit toward the Association's contract with the hotel. That can make or break a successful Reunion.

1st Recon Bn Association

Thur 8/14 Museum of the Marine Corps and 1st Recon Memorial Service (at Museum) $45 pp 
1st Recon Banquet and Auction


Download the Registration Form:

78th Annual Reunion Registration Form
The link above will download your copy of the registration form.


You may call HQ at (760)763-3267, or email june.oldbreed@fmda.us for a form by mail. We can also complete your Registration and credit card information by phone.


1ST MARINE DIVISION ASSOCIATION website www.1stMarineDivisionAssociation.org

has a link that will take you to an online Registration Form.


SILENT AUCTION

1st Recon Bn Association, Silent Auction for the Reunion. If you have suitable items that other Marines would treasure, please bring them to the Reunion.

Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel 900 South Orme Street Arlington, Virginia, USA, 22204

Past Reunions

Past Reunions

Past Reunions

Good morning Gentlemen,

I'm sure some of you have heard the news but Charlie and Curtis will NOT be attending the reunion this year for physical reasons. In addition, Doc Snider is having heart surgery. so he will also be absent.

This email includes the board, Gary and I've added Bob Fawcett who has organized the Team Rush Act memorial.

With our leadership decimated, each of us will have to step up and help wherever we can help best. Being Secretary, I'll try my best on communications.

I've attached our list of officers and when their terms expire. Mine is the only one in 2025, so that will simplify our business meeting. I've also attached the minutes from last year's reunion.

Here is my latest schedule including times. I'm also including who is the contact. Correct me if I have something wrong.

Wednesday 13
Wreath laying at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and war memorials 745 dept -1030 return (Division)

Thursday 14

Team Rush Act memorial service and Marine Corps Museum. Bus is 900 dept - 1600 return. Memorial Service is at Noon followed by refreshments inside the Museum. Bob Fawcett is in charge but the bus transportation is by Division.

Our Fundraising Auction and Banquet. Place our hotel. Exact time ? Cost approximately $60 a person. Charlie has been arranging this. Note, the bus returning from the museum is at 1600. So, I'm guessing 1700 for Auction and 1800 for Banquet. Click Here for the signup sheet.

Friday 15

Air and Space Museum 1200 dept and 1645 return (Division) Evening Parade 1830 dept and 1000 return. Overton coordinating. Click Here for the signup sheet.

Saturday 16

Division is having their Business meeting in the morning and their Banquet at night. We have nothing scheduled.

What is missing is our business meeting. I suggest Friday morning. The trip to the Air and Space museum leaves at noon, so we could meet at 1000. Our minutes from last year are attached.

One other issue that Gary mentioned was our Harbor Site and volunteers to help keep that in check.

Lastly, I've also attached the latest roster for the Evening Parade. Please let me know of any changes.

Semper Fi,

ron

Thanks for updating our members Ron.

 

I’ve spoken on the phone a couple of times with Doc Snider in the past month or so, and believe it’s LEG surgery that will prevent him from air travel at this point in time.  I think he’ll be fine in another month or so.

 

Charlie and I have been in (semi) regular contact all year, and we talked twice on the phone yesterday afternoon.  I’m also part of the FMDA re-union committee and have been very much in regular contact with both Susan Finnigan (re-union planning chair) and Mike Galyean (Div Assoc acting Pres).  Susan and Mike are a delight to work with, Susan is very efficient regarding the planning and coordination with hotel staff.

 

The bus schedule for Thursday is “penciled in” there has been some concerns regarding traffic, so slight modifications may occur.  I’ll reach out today for confirmation, but I believe our Recon dinner will begin at 18:00 with food being served before 19:00 and the auction after dinner.  I’ve been told that a well decorated, retired officer will be our speaker.  Not certain what our exact cost will be per person (the hotel has quoted aprox $75).

 

Good idea Ron regarding the Recon bus mtg on Fri morning -- 09:00 would be best.  Division has committee mtgs scheduled from 10:00 until 12:00 and I should be attending those, but don’t want to miss the Recon bus mtg. 

 

Bill Purcell (the likely next Div Assoc Vice President) definitely wants to attend the parade Friday night with us and has been in email contact with me regarding that.  His wife is not doing well physically, so it’s uncertain if he will want one or two seats.

 

My wife and I will be arriving in DC on Sat afternoon.  We have plans downtown for Tues morning.  Probably do some sightseeing in Virginia and/or Maryland on Sunday/Monday.  This is my new email & my cell phone is listed below.

 

There has been some talk between a few of us this past year (and a little talk in previous years) regarding a succession plan for Recon Assoc.  A committee was created three years ago when we were last in Arlington with three of us, a recently retired SgtMjr who was new to reunions offered to chair the committee, but no progress had been made.  I think all but one of us is past age 75, and three of our prominent members will be unable to attend for physical reasons this year.  The Division Assoc is having similar challenges, but there are a couple of people involved there who are still in their 40’s and several under 75.  I feel it’s important for us to discuss this at our business meeting next week, and plan ahead.   

“We’re surrounded. That simplifies the problem.” 

Ralph Witkin

cell:  203-536-7015

August 5th, 2025 9:45AM

I just received a telephone call this morning from Charlie Kershaw. 
 He's not going to be able to make the reuion this year due to medical issues. Hopefully he will back on his feet and feeling better soon. I sent him a prayer and my best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Hopefully he'll be back at our next reunion in 2026.

Dear Members,

Our 78th 1st Marine Division Association reunion is almost upon us. We are ready for a great reunion with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a visit to the National Museum of the Marine Corps where 1st Recon Bn. will conduct a Memorial Service for the Team Rush Act, and a visit to the Udvar-Hazy Center for Air and Space Museum. 

Like you, I am looking forward to meeting and hearing remarks from MajGen. Thomas Savage, commanding general of our famed “Blue Diamond” Division at the Saturday night banquet. 

For those of you who are arriving by air at Reagan National Airport, there is a shuttle from the airport to the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel. The shuttle begins at 6:15 am and runs every 30 minutes until 9:15 am. After 9:15 it runs every hour at the __:15 time. Shuttle pick-up will be at Terminal #1 by the hotel shuttle kiosk, or Terminal #4 or Terminal #7. You may reach the hotel front desk at 703.521.1900. 

Upon checking in for the reunion on the 15th floor, near the hospitality rooms, you will receive information in your packet regarding shuttle schedules from the hotel back to the airport and to Crystal City Mall.

Below in the EVENTS section are two new links that will download a Reunion Information packet and the latest Schedule of Events. Hardcopies will be provided at check-in.

Please be advised that reservations for the wreath laying, Museum of the Marine Corps, Air and Space Museum, and Ladies Lunch events are nearing capacity. If you have not already sent in your registration form, the remaining seats will go first-come first-served at the check-in desk.

I look forward to seeing many of you in Arlington, Virginia next week, and I wish you safe travels from where ever you will be traveling.

Semper Fi

Mike Galyean

President

(321)276-7515

galyeanmike@gmail.com

Annual Reunion Update

This is tentatively what’s been requested for the Thurs night meal:

 

Beverages:  Coffee, Hot and Iced Tea, Water

Rolls and butter

First Course:  Mixed Green Salad

Main Courses:

Pan Seared Chicken |  Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus

Steak option | Green Beans and Roasted Red Bliss Potatoes

Dessert:

Chocolate Ganache Torte Cake

 

We’ll be in the Galaxy Ballroom on the 16th floor.

 

It is expected that we’ll gather at 18:00, not sure if we’ll have the speaker & other formalities first and then dinner, followed by the auction at about 20:30, and will probably finish around 21:30

 

 

“We’re surrounded. That simplifies the problem.”

 

Ralph Witkin

cell:  203-536-7015

Email:  ReconBn70@gmail.com

RALPH WITKIN (Recon) <reconbn70@gmail.com> 8/6/2025 4:14 PM RE: Reunion Update

The hotel is charging $5,203.13 for the Thursday dinner, figuring on 75 persons = $70 per person. 

Creg Howland – the FMDA has already over-night-ed a check to the hotel (because of the reunion being next week), so the Recon Assoc will need to re-imburse Division for that amount, it can be done at the reunion. 

“We’re surrounded. That simplifies the problem.”

 

Ralph Witkin

cell:  203-536-7015

Email:  ReconBn70@gmail.com 

1st Recon Association's  Emails

Ron, Ralph, 

Sounds like the Recon dinner has fall in into place. That said, few Reconners know the details. Therefore, would recommend a shotgun email to the entire 1st Recon Bn Association email list with the Recon dinner announcement. Not sure if that’s Ron’s list or Floyd’s list or Charlie’s list or all three. 1st Recon Bn Association annual Reunion dinner has been confirmed for 1700 happy hour in the xx room of the Sheraton. Our confirmed speaker is Lt General Earl Hailston, USMC (Ret) former platoon commander and patrol leader in Echo Company and recipient of the Silver Star medal for gallantry while a member of 1st Recon Battalion. Dress is country club casual, no UDT trunks and flip flops Recon Marines. The association needs a head count so please respond by email to xxx with your number attending. See you at the Reunion. 

On the number attending, I believe it would be prudent to provide an open invitation for 1st Marine Division Marines and Corpsmen you join us for dinner at their own expense. I also believe it would be prudent to invite them to the auction as their money is as good as out money. 

All the above is offered only as suggestions to support. And if it should be addressed to a different officer of the association please forward. 

Very Respectfully,

Mike

Delta Company, 1st Recon 1970  

 

 

From: RALPH WITKIN (Recon) <reconbn70@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 5:10 PM
To: mfallon4@cox.net; overtonrv@gmail.com

Mike: 

  I’ll look tomorrow in my computer to see if I have the email addresses for those Recon Marines who attend the reunions.  Ron’s 3 hrs ahead of us, so if he has such a list handy – let us know.

Tonight, I’ll post a short announcement on the Association’s FaceBook page regarding the Thurs dinner next week.   Our commitment to the hotel is for 75 people at the dinner.  Let’s see how the Recon reservations add up before even thinking about “opening” it up the non Recon persons. Yes, I would definitely ‘advertise’ the auction to all who are attending the FMDA Re-union – many Division people were there last year, and enjoyed the auction.  Speaking of the auction – Ron, as you already know Dave Snider will NOT be at the reunion this year, and it seemed to me that he was the one who managed the auction in the past.  Does anybody know if we’ve got enough merchandise committed yet?

“We’re surrounded. That simplifies the problem.” 

Ralph Witkin cell:  203-536-7015

Email:  ReconBn70@gmail.com 

Hi Mike, 

I concur with both of you.  I've included Dane and Floyd on this email as mentioned below. 
With regard to inviting Division members to our dinner.  We ALWAYS invite their officers. That's 6-8 or so.   Once we see our numbers through the weekend, we can decide about opening it further.  Here is what Ralph shared on Facebook. "The Recon dinner on Thursday night at the hotel has been confirmed We'll be in the Galaxy Ballroom on the 16th floor and expect to start around 6pm, with Lt Gen (ret) Hailston (from 1st Recon Bn in 1970) as our guest speaker. Followed by our annual Auction which is always a lot of fun. Price per person for the dinner is $70 with a choice of either chicken or steak for your entre. Ron Overton is maintaining a list of attendees -- we're limited to 75 persons." 
This needs to be shared with the membership by Floyd if he is able. 
I will contact the dinner attendees and get their choice for dinner. Ralph, does the hotel have a cutoff time for our menu choices? 
Also, with regard to the Auction, I suggest we draft Dane and Sandy Kucera. They did a great job last year. By this email I am hoping Dane is both coming and willing. 
Evening Parade.  It's free as the Association is paying for the bus.  Charlie set it up and I'm following through.  6:30 boarding with a 10:00 return.  Right now the count is at 20 and Ralph has some division attendees that want to attend.  We have 50 slots but if we only have 30-40 . . .
 
Lastly, I'll be driving in Monday evening and staying through the Division banquet on Saturday.
 
SF,
 
rono

See you all at the reunion this year. God willing

Semper Fi, Floyd Ruggles

Membership Director & Webmaster 2016-2025

New members may apply, and members may renew their dues, on our website: www.1stMarineDivisionAssociation.org.

More Emails from 2025