A highlight of the 66th Annual Yorktown CV-10 Association Reunion this past weekend was the "Meet & Greet" held Saturday onboard the 71-year old ship. The table of former shipmates available to talk with museum guests included "plank owners" who were the first to serve on the ship in 1943, as well as sailors who served until her decommissioning in 1970. A steady stream of museum visitors came from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 18 to meet the more than 20 former shipmates and have them sign a commemorative poster provided at the event.
For some Yorktown CV-10 Association members it was their first reunion, like Chester Skop. He served as a carpenter on the USS Yorktown from 1953-1954. He currently lives in Elmyra, MI and has wanted to come to a reunion for many years. Finally this year he made the trip with his daughter. He was happy to share his story with those who stopped by, including these two young boy scouts.
Others have been to reunions many times before, like Chaplain Harold Syfrett. Mr. Syfrett was an electrician from 1943-1946 -- making him a plank owner as part of her original crew. He brought with him many photos and other memorabilia to share with museum guests. In the picture below you will see a block of steel. It is part of the USS Yorktown that was given to him for his 90th birthday.
Museum visitors who came to the Meet & Greet were given a commemorative poster to have signed by all of the former shipmates. Ralph Hewitt, of Nicaragua, came with his brother Ed who served on the USS Yorktown from 1953-1954. He proudly displayed his poster after having everyone sign it for him.
Mr. Hewitt enjoyed the event and the entire reunion so much, he plans to return. "Next year I am going to come again and bring my wife! This reunion has been fantastic. These men are all amazing," said Ralph Hewitt.
Mr. Hewitt and many guests were most impressed by Mr. Syfrett and the other "plank owners" (original crew members of the USS Yorktown). Pictured below, Bill Brindle (right) and Fred Springs (left) also earned the distinction of "plank owner" from their service. They talked with many guests and shared stories of their time onboard "The Fighting Lady."
By all accounts, the event was a success. Many attendees and visitors said they look forward to this event again next year. Check out more photos from the Meet & Greet session below:
