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Compiled by:
Cecil M. Hefner
With the help of many
Grey Eagle members.

THE FIRST GREY EAGLE CONVENTION
November 15-17, 1962- Sheraton Hotel, Chicago, IL
President: W. H. Proctor
Convention Chairman: W. H. Proctor
Attendance 67. Membership 162.


HIGHLIGHTS: Formation of Grey Eagle by-laws. Harold Ames (Director, American Airlines) gave a cocktail party for entire convention, 38 Grey Eagles and 17 wives, at the Prudential Plaza. C. R. Smith was the guest speaker at the banquet on the evening of 17th. (Note: Room rates $8.85 Sgl., $14.00 Dbl. Mixed drinks 65 cents.)
Quotes from C. R. Smith's speech:
"We find that in the 'past the middle' years of life we do not form new friendships with the ease of our more youthful years and new friends do not wear as well; they seem more like acquaintances."
"We hold up the fingers to count our real friends, all fingers may not be up. The truth of the matter is that good men are scarce and good friends hard to come by."
"The Village advice was 'to stick by the home town girls'. It is good advice for us as well. Grey Eagles has many worthy purposes but none more worthy than to encourage good men to continue their friendships and to enjoy them."

**

October 24-26, 1963 - Palace Hotel, San Francisco, CA
President: Howard H. West
Convention Chairman: Duke Ledbetter

HIGHLIGHTS: Free tour of San Francisco Bay by boat. First reception and cocktail party by American Airlines for the Grey Eagles, hosted by Marion Sadler. Guest speaker at the banquet on the 26th. was William Littlewood. (Note: Rooms $10 Sgl., $14 Dbl.) Grey Eagle Membership 220.

**

November 24-26, 1964 - Statler-Hilton Hotel, Boston, MA
President: Paul Carpenter
Convention Chairman: Duke Ledbetter

HIGHLIGHTS: Floating Clam Bake while cruising the Boston harbor. 80 Grey Eagles and 63 GE wives attended this convention. Marion Sadler was the guest speaker.

(Note: Rooms $9 Sgl., $14 Dbl.) Attendance 143.  

**

October 28-30, 1965 - Executive House, Scottsdale, AZ
President Duke Ledbetter
Convention Chairman Bill Gilmore 

HIGHLIGHTS: Desert Barbecue, Indian dances, fried bread. Barry Goldwater as the guest speaker on the evening of the 30th. Over 237 Grey Eagles and wives attended this convention.

(All the above information was supplied by Duke Ledbetter.)

**

September 23-25, 1966 - Mayflower Hotel, Washington, DC
President: Paul Carpenter
Convention Chairman: Paul Carpenter

HIGHLIGHTS: The Marine Sunset Parade, courtesy of General Karl Day, also a Grey Eagle. The boat trip on the Potomac with a visit to George Washington's home at Mount Vernon. President Carpenter took a short vacation in the hospital with an acute attack of pancreatic but was able to get out in time for the banquet. Bob Serling was the guest speaker at the banquet and an excellent skit by the Washington Kiwis was presented. Grey Eagle caps were given to all members, courtesy of C. R. Smith. Attendance 150. Membership 415.

**

October 19-21, 1967 - Del Coronado Hotel, San Diego, CA
President: Sheldon Shoff
Convention Chairman: Sheldon Shoff

HIGHLIGHTS: Tour of the aircraft carrier Ticonderoga, a hair-raising boat ride (we got lost in the fog) on the Marietta to the other side of the bay where we had our Grey Eagle dinner. At the banquet, Bob Considine narrated an American Airlines film of our MAC operation to Viet Nam. The San Diego Kiwis presented a skit.

Attendance 295. Membership 487.

**

October 24-25, 1968 - Inn of the Six Flags, Fort Worth, TX
President: Sheldon Shoff
Convention Chairman: Jim Hay

HIGHLIGHTS: A cattle auction in Fort Worth, the ladies toured Nieman Marcus while the men toured the Bell Helicopter plant and Ling Temco Vought. We all went to Stormy Manghams's airport for a fantastic airshow and Texas barbecue. Fred Chambers made a free fall parachute jump. Ham Smith was elected Treasurer.

Attendance: 398. Membership: 571. 

**

November 6-8, 1969 - Mountain Shadows Resort, Scottsdale, AZ
President: Cecil Hefner
Convention Chairman: Dwight McMillen
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Ernie Ford sang at the Grey Eagles' night at Reata Pass and so endeared himself to our members that we voted him in as an Associate member and presented him with a GE jacket at the banquet. Tours to Heard Museum, Jerome, Oak Creek Canyon, Montezuma's Castle and Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesen West. Ladies brunch with Chabela, the well known artist. Ernie Gann flew his own private plane from Friday Harbor, WA, to enjoy his first Grey Eagle convention. Bill Person was elected Treasurer. Membership 629.

**

October 15-17, 1970 - Newporter Hotel, Newport Beach, CA
President: Ham Smith
Convention Chairman: Cecil Hefner
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Tour of the Douglas Aerospace facility. Grey Eagle night in Bomer Canyon. Free drinks and barbecue. President George Spater was the speaker at the banquet. Attendance 369. Membership 688.

**

September 23-25, 1971 - Del Coronado Hotel, San Diego, CA
President: Harry Clark
Convention Chairman: Joe Anderson

HIGHLIGHTS: Harry Clark died and Chick Luna took over for him. Grey Eagle night was held in the picnic area of the San Diego Zoo. Convention attendance 209. Grey eagle membership 754. 

**

October 11-13, 1972 - Ala Moana Hotel, Honolulu, HI
President: Chick Luna
Convention Chairman: Jack Keller
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night held at Fort DeRussy, a glamorous sunset evening with Hawaiian leis, shirts and muumuus, entertained by Ernie Ford. At the banquet cocktail hour, Ernie Ford sang with Kay Starr. Donald Lloyd Jones was the speaker and announced that Mc Donnell Douglas would bear all expenses of Bryce McCormick's cargo door blowout near Detroit. Bryce received a standing ovation. (Room rate $10.00) Attendance 500.  

**

September 20-22, 1973 - York Hotel, Toronto, Canada
President: Bill Person
Convention Chairman: Bill Person

HIGHLIGHTS: Person is our youngest President. Grey Eagle night was spent cruising on Lake Erie. C. R. Smith was the speaker, one of his last visits with the Grey Eagles.

Attendance 400.

**

October 24-26, 1974 - Sheraton Hotel, Scottsdale, AZ
President: Bert Bruce
Convention Chairman: Bill McCormick

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night held at Rawhide ranch. Bill McCormick had signs on the stores and buildings such as - Bert Bruce, Town Sheriff; Chick Luna, Laundromat; Kay Hansen Brothel; Dave Little Printing Press and Paul Carpenter Black Smith. Ernie Ford entertained and Al Casey was the banquet speaker. Attendance 536.

**

November 13-15, 1975 - Rivera Hotel, Palm Springs, CA
President: Jack Gibson
Convention Chairman: Bryce McCormick

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night held at the Thunderbird Golf Club, courtesy of Director Harold Ames, with Mexican food. Ernie Ford entertained along with Phil Harris. Ernie also sang with a quartet of pilots dressed as World War I aviators. Tours to on the Tram ride up Mount San Jacinto, $1.75. Kay Hansen retired from American Airlines but continued serving on the Site Selection Committee. Attendance 525.

**

October 23-25, 1976 _ Del Coronado Hotel, San Diego, CA
President: Milt Coppage
Convention Chairman: Owen Foringer

HIGHLIGHTS: Octoberfest. Speaker was Cal Worthington. Free beer mugs, dancing and ending with real fireworks.

 

**

October 24-26, 1977 - Aladdin Hotel, Las Vegas, NV
President: Dwight McMillen
Convention Chairman: Bill McCormick

HIGHLIGHTS: speaker was stuttering Sam on Grey Eagle night. Uncle Milt Coppage joined the belly dancers. Toured Nellis Air Force base and Boulder Dam. 

**

September 21-23, 1978 - Opryland, Nashville, TN
President: Jim Stanford
Convention Chairman: Jim Stanford

HIGHLIGHTS: Tours to the Hermitage, Jesse Stalling's ranch. Tennessee walking horse demonstration. Grey Eagle night all member occupied the balcony of the Opryland Opryhouse while Ernie Ford gave the program and had all Grey Eagles stand in recognition. Paul Clough was elected Secretary. Attendance 692.

**

October 18-20, 1979 - Arlington Hotel, Hot Springs, AR
President: Bill McCormick
Convention Chairman: George Becker

HIGHLIGHTS: Open beer bar in the hotel lounge throughout the convention. Grey Eagle night, wine and cheese on the mountain side terrace. Entertainment by Joe Adleman, ex-Police captain, was hilarious. Banquet speaker, Al Casey. Nick O'Connell was voted to Honorary Life membership. Due to Hot Springs accessibility, the attendance was reduced to 370. total cost of the convention -$8,074. Mary Sullivan became American Airlines Coordinator.

**

September 13-15, 1980 - The Pointe Resort, Scottsdale, AZ
President: Walt Moran
Convention Chairman: Bill McCormick

HIGHLIGHTS: Due to Moran's illness, Fred Illston took over. Hotel rates $38.00, including free drinks at "Happy hour" and a free breakfast. President Crandall was the speaker.

**

October 8-10, 1981 - Americana Hotel, Fort Worth, TX
President: Fred Illston
Convention Chairman: Jack Calloway

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night at a dude ranch. Ernie Ford entertained us. Ray Ryan was elected Treasurer. C. R. Smith attended the banquet, (his last visit with us.)

**

October 28-30, 1982 - Princess Kaiulani Hotel, Honolulu, HI
President: Nick O'Connell
Convention Chairman: Elton Leach

HIGHLIGHTS: Tours of the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural center.

Room rate $38.00.

** 

September 16-18, 1983 - Marriott Hotel, Anaheim, CA
President: Bryce McCormick
Convention Chairman: Kent Campbell
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Tours of the Queen Mary and the Spruce goose. Grey Eagle night at a secluded area of Knott's Berry Farm.

**

September 13-15, 1984 - The Pointe Resort, Phoenix, AZ
President: George Becker
Convention Chairman: Joe Sittinger

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night speaker was Robert Serling; for the banquet, comedian Tommy Richards. George Tompkins was elected Secretary. Hotel rate $40.00, every room a suite, free daily "Happy hour" and free breakfast. Attendance 601.

**

September 27-29, 1985 - Westin Hotel, Denver, CO
President: Chuck Shafer
Convention Chairmen: Jim Pardee & Vince O'Toole
 

HIGHLIGHTS: First two days temperature 74 deg.; Thursday, 8" of snow, temperature of 17 deg. Tours of the Air Force Academy, Coors Brewery and the Colorado nation Park. 40 senior pilots visited the North American Air Defense Command in the interior depths of Cheyenne mountain near Colorado Springs. Ladies luncheon was entertained with a Hat Show. Rooms $40.00, coffee $1.25, cocktails $3.00 Mary Sullivan voted in as an Associate member.  

**

September 25-27, 1986 - Princess Kaiulani Hotel, Honolulu, HI
President: Elton Leach
Convention Chairman: Nick O'Connell
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night on the lawn of the Sheraton Hotel, a terrific Polynesian show at the Ala Moana Hotel. All sports activities canceled - rain - rain - rain! Mary Sullivan checked in as Mrs. John Raymond. Pearl harbor cruise, also a twilight dinner cruise. President Crandall was a guest. Jack Jackson entertained. Bob Wilson elected 2nd. Vice President

Hotel $39. Attendance 502. 

**

October 29-31, 1987 - Excelsior Hotel, Little Rock, AR
President: Tony DeSalvo
Convention Chairman: Bell Bettwy

HIGHLIGHTS: Through the courtesy of the Arkansas Aviation Society, a Command-Aire, (an open cockpit biplane made in Little Rock,) was dismantled, then reassembled and set up in the entrance court area of the hotel. Historical, City and river tours on the Arkansas River. Banquet speaker was Robert Crandall. The Honorable William Clinton, Governor of Arkansas, made a special visit to welcome the Grey Eagles to Arkansas and presented an Arkansas Travelers Certificate to Bob Crandall. The Governor also issued a proclamation honoring the Grey Eagles by declaring the week of October 25-31, Arkansas Aviation history Week. A silver Fox fur jacket was the door prize at the ladies luncheon., entertained by Willie Oates. Grey Eagle night, Ernie Ford entertained accompanied by Jim Stanford on his head-high, double-base fiddle along with his seven piece orchestra, aptly called "The Retreads," along with a performance by the Pine Bluff High School "Zebra Prancers". Joe Gumber was elected 2nd. Vice President Max Vickers was elected as Secretary and Bob Dean as Treasurer.

(Room rate $45.) Attendance 556

**

October 24-26, 1988 - Harrah's Hotel, Reno, NV
President: Martin Gellart
Convention Chairman: Bryce McCormick

HIGHLIGHTS: Chick Luna voted to Honorary Life membership posthumously. Jack Jackson voted in as Associate member. Tours to Virginia City and Lake Tahoe. Beautiful, sunny, Fall weather. Hotel facilities were outstanding. Kiwis, Boots Hogate and Barbara Holder put on a hilarious skit as two witches.

**

October 20-22, 1989 - North Raleigh Hilton Hotel, Raleigh, NC
President: Bob Wilson
Convention Chairman: Jack Clark

HIGHLIGHTS: The Convention was dedicated to C. R. Smith. Robert Crandall, was the banquet speaker. Tours of Duke University. Beautiful eastern foliage and fall colors. Grey Eagle night, big 12 piece band with dancing. Total cost of the convention was $29,738. 1989 gross income $82,618, including dues, sale of various Grey Eagle items, convention and APA participation. Grey Eagle membership now 1415.

Hotel rate $49. Attendance 602.

**

November 2-4, 1990 - Sheraton Phoenix Hotel, Phoenix, AZ
President: Joe Gumber
Convention Chairman: Bob Malone

HIGHLIGHTS: Jim Stanford honored as a Honorary Life member. A special welcome to old timers, Duke Ledbetter and Bill Keasler. Robert Crandall was the banquet speaker. Bud Ehman resigned his position as Grey Eagle 1st. Vice President. Cort Dickenson was voted in as the new 1st. Vice President. Total Grey Eagle membership now 1503. Attendance was 705, the highest ever. Hotel rate $45.00. 

**

October 28-30, 1991 - Harrah's Hotel, Reno, NV
President: Fran Fosdick
Convention Chairman: Martin Gellart
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Tom Eanes joined the team as 2nd. Vice President. Nick O'Connell was honored for his long service to the Grey Eagles in wearing many different "caps". He also was awarded the Grey Eagle "Special Recognition Award." Only the second one that has ever been given. Elmer Heckel was honored with an Honorary Life membership for his work. John Reddington was voted in as a Associate member. Otto Becker and Bryce McCormick were given special awards for their excellent work in locating and buying the Grey Eagle DC 3. The Grey Eagles under President Fosdick raised $142,000 for the purchase. The Flagship Knoxville, DC 3 will be donated to the C. R. Smith museum. The ladies were treated to a demonstration of "The Life of a Show Girl."

**

October 22-24, 1992 - Fairmont Hotel, San Jose, CA
President: Cort Dickinson
Convention Chairman: Lloyd McBeth

HIGHLIGHTS: Bob Dean, Treasurer and Max Vickers, Secretary, resigned after five years of service and were given Golden Eagles (made by Gracie O'Connell specially for them) in appreciation of their work. They gave a very humorous account of their activities during their five years of service. Otto Becker was voted in as an Honorary Member and given our appreciation for his special work on the DC3 project. Bryce McCormick was given the Grey Eagles "Special Recognition Award," for his many years of service to the Grey Eagles along with his work on the DC3 project. This was the third time in the history of the Grey Eagles this award has been given. Bob Lagerstrom was elected 2nd. Vice President, Jack Webb as Secretary and John D. Moore as Treasurer. Al Casey was the speaker on Grey Eagle night, Bob Crandall was the speaker at the banquet. The ladies luncheon was entertained by a Barber Shop Chorus. Hotel rate $62. Attendance 548. 

**

October 16-18, 1993 - Worthington Hotel, Fort Worth, TX
President: Bill Bettwy
Convention Chairman: Jack Hinson 

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night speaker was Bob Serling. Western theme with many jeans and cowboy hats seen. Duke Ledbetter honored as the oldest Grey Eagle at age 90. Tours to C. R. Smith museum, DC3 Flagship Knoxville, Flight Academy with time in the flight simulators for Grey Eagles and wives. Fran Fosdick elected to Honorary Life membership for his outstanding efforts in raising the money for Flagship Knoxville. Bob Crandall was the banquet speaker. Don Allen was elected 2nd. Vice President.

Hotel rate $65.00. Attendance 856.  

**

October 8-10, 1994 - Marriott Hotel, New Orleans, LA
President: Tom Eanes
Convention Chairman: Joe Gumber
 

HIGHLIGHTS: Swamp tours, paddle wheel boat cruise and tours of the city. The hotel hosted the Grey Eagle night cocktail party. Al Casey made a short speech with Jack Jackson the main speaker. Bob Crandall spoke at the banquet. AA Vice President, Bob Baker was elected to Grey Eagle Honorary Life membership for his outstanding service to the Grey Eagles. He also was very instrumental in making possible the DC3 flight from Tulsa to Dallas/Fort Worth. Ken Phelps was elected as 2nd. Vice President.

Hotel rate $65.00 Attendance 791.

**

October 13-15, 1995 - Wyndham Hotel, Chicago, IL
President: Bob Lagerstrom
Convention Chairman: Herb Dabelow

HIGHLIGHTS: An excellent hotel with a 12 story atrium. Grey Eagle night speaker, Jim Wetherbee, Astronaut, (son of Grey Eagle Dan Wetherbee) He has flown three missions, one as commander and is Deputy Director of the Houston Space Center. Tours of the Lake front, the Monet exhibit, Grey Eagle, John Teerling's nursery, (shipping plants all over the world) and a city tour with luncheon at Berghoffs! Banquet night, Bob Crandall gave a very upbeat speech on American Airlines future. Grey Eagle, Cecil Ewell, was elected to Honorary Life membership. At the business meeting the Treasurer announced that over 500 new Grey Eagles had been recruited in the past three years, a record. Mary S. Raymond announced that she was retiring from American, but would stay on as the AAL/Grey Eagle Coordinator. John D. Moore moved from Treasurer to 2nd. Vice President, Robert J. (Pepe) Lefevre was elected to fill the Treasurers position and Max Vickers elected to Secretary.

Hotel rates $67.00. Drinks $3.75. Membership 2066. Attendance 561.

**

 

October 4-6, 1996 - Hyatt Regency Hotel, Irvine, CA
President: Don Allen
Convention Chairman: Kenneth Phelps

HIGHLIGHTS: Grey Eagle night speaker was former AA President Al Casey, who delighted everyone with his humor and wit. Departing from past tradition for a "free" Grey Eagle night a charge is now made which is healthy for our treasury and results in upgraded dinners. Vice President and Chief Pilot Cecil Ewell charmed all the pilots with his warm remarks at the business meeting. Our popular scribe, Frank Nehlig was elected as Honorary Life Member. AMR Chairman, Bob Crandall was the speaker at the banquet. Tours covered the Nixon Library, Crystal Cathedral, Mission San Juan Capistrano, The San Diego Aeronautical museum, as well as special boat tours to Catalina Island. At the Imax theater, Grey Eagle Pop Warner, spoke to about 200 young students on the duties and rigors of the early Air Mail pilots. Bob Malone was elected 2nd. Vice President. Membership stands at 2163, plus 356 widows, whom we never want to forget.

Convention attendance 680 Hotel rooms, $69.00 Wine $4.00 Cocktails $3.75  

*******

September 24-26, 1997 _ Le Centre Sheraton Hotel, Montreal Canada
President: Kenneth Phelps
Convention Chairman: R. Gary Lopp

HIGHLIGHTS: Our timing to visit Montreal was right on target, as the countryside was beautiful. The city lights were a cluster of diamonds as viewed from our 37 floor Hotel. This is our second convention outside the United States. We were in Toronto in 1973 with C. R. Smith as the keynote speaker. That was his last convention with us. Money problems caused many calculations in our favor as the Canadian dollar was worth about 72 cents. One disappointment: There was no discount from U.S. prices for home grown Canadian whiskey! The many tours kept our people busy, including the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, the fall foliage in the Laurentians, a visit to a complete underground city and a cruise on the St. Lawrence River. Robert E. Dean was elected as Honorary Life Member. R. Gary Lopp was elected as 2nd. Vice President. AMR Chairman, Robert Crandall was the speaker at the banquet. There’s something about being present at our [U. S.] border that gives you a strong dose of patriotism. The lure of a different country outweighed the difficulty in travel as the attendance topped out at a robust 757 attendees! Membership 2662, including Surviving Spouses. Room rate: U. S. dollars $76.00

********

September 9-11, 1998 Doubletree Hotel, Bellevue Washington
President: John D. Moore
Convention Chairman: Barry Syrett

HIGHLIGHTS: The big activity for this convention was the tour through the Boeing aircraft complex and seeing the construction details of the Boeing 777, as well as the other aircraft being manufactured for airlines around the world. The tour to Kiana Lodge gave us a delightful overview of the great Northwest. At the banquet, retired AMR Chairman, Bob Crandall, relived the exciting experiences in sailing his "retirement" boat across the Atlantic to the U.S. George W. McKellar was elected second Vice President. Donald G. Craig steps down and Robert G. Hoch, Jr. takes over as the Membership Chairman. Max Vickers was elected to a Special Recognition Membership. Attendance 805, one of the largest yet. Membership is now 2789, including Surviving Spouses. Room rate: $85.00. Banquet charge: $44.00 Drinks: $3.75 Wine: $3.75

*********

September 9-11, 1999 Hyatt Regency Crystal City Hotel Arlington Virginia
President: Robert H. Malone
Convention Chairman: Jack R. Hinson

HIGHLIGHTS: The Grey Eagles decided to close out the Century, the decade and the old year of 1999 by going right to the top, so it was HELLO Washington, D.C. Tours were plentiful and gave everyone a chance to see the details of our government nerve center. The popular Garber Museum, Mount Vernon and the lighted night tour of the monuments were among the best. Continuing the tradition started in Montreal, a high tea in the Presidential Suite was held for the attending 35 surviving spouses. The convention ran smoothly with many compliments and short lines due to the efforts of a host of workers headed by Jack and Ruthie Hinson.

CEO Don Carty, chartered an Executive Jet to fly to the convention, just in time to be our banquet night speaker. Grey Eagle night went over big with Al Casey and Jack Jackson.

Pepe Lefevre our good treasurer, was elected to Honorary Life Membership. Ms. Sue Pyle was elected to Associate Membership. Secretary, Max Vickers announced that he will be stepping down at the Convention next year. As ever a good manager, he is training a replacement. This will complete 13 years Max has given to the Grey Eagles, including 10 as Secretary. Dues were raised $5 dollars for active and retired pilots and now stand at $30 and $25 annually. Officers elected for year 2000 are: President, Gary Lopp, 1st. Vice President, George McKellar, 2nd. Vice President, Jack Hinson, Treasurer, Pepe Lefevre, Secretary, Max Vickers, . Bob Hoch remains as Membership Chairman. Our membership now 2441 plus 433 surviving spouses.

Total Convention attendance 871, the largest ever. Room rate, $90.00

*********

September 4-6, 2000 Hyatt River Walk Hotel, San Antonio Texas
President: R. Gary Lopp
Convention Chairman: Thomas C. Linnevers

HIGHLIGHTS: The River Walk and the Alamo. Boat tours of the River, the short walk to the Alamo and for many of the Grey Eagles, a visit to their roots, the Military and Air Force bases. Tours of the Missions and the beautiful Hill Country were extremely popular as well. The weather was hot, but the Hotel was cool and many an hour was spent there, visiting with old friends and reminiscing. On Grey Eagle night, NASA Astronaut, Colonel USAF (Ret.), John E. Blaha gave us a fascinating report of his mission aboard the Russian Space station, MIR. He reported on how he trained for the mission and of his life on board. Herbert Dabelow was elected as 2nd. Vice President. Max Vickers stepped down and James T. Groves III took over as Secretary. Robert H. Malone was elected to a well deserved Honorary Life Membership. Frank Nehlig stepped down as Scribe after serving us for 11 years, Barry Syrett will take over. Membership is now 2972, including Surviving Spouses. Room rate, $99.00. Attendance had been planned for 800, however with numerous late cancellations and no show's, only 558 attended.

 

 

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

Atlanta Georgia Hyatt Regency Hotel
Planned for September 17th. thru 20th., 2001
President: George W. McKellar
Convention Chairman: Robert E. Mangam

 


HIGHLIGHTS: President McKellar along with his Convention Chairman, Robert Mangam, had everything in place. All plans were finalized for the Convention. Treasurer, R. J. Lefevre had 264 registration's with 484 Grey Eagles and their ladies planning to attend.
Then the tragedies of September 11th.!!
During the next couple of days, the President conferred with the Convention Chairman, the Board of Directors and the Executive Board. It soon became apparent that it would be necessary for the first time in 39 years to cancel the Convention. The Hotel and Tour provider concurred and allowed us to cancel with no monetary loss. During the next week this decision was proven to be the correct one. With the restrictions in air travel, the general feelings of sorrow and sadness in our members, it was apparent that there was little desire for a celebration. Since the General Members meeting was also canceled, the President and his Executive Board, along with the Nomination Committee conferred and it was decided to accept the Nomination Committee's proposed Officers for year 2002. Nominated and elected were the following: President, Jack R. Hinson, 1st. Vice President, Herbert L. Dabelow, 2nd. Vice President, Karl W. Nuechterlein, Treasurer, R. J. Lefevre and Secretary, James T. Groves, III.
Membership now is 2999 including Surviving Spouses. Room rates would have been, $109.00
C. Max Vickers Historian February 2002


 

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

September 20 - 23, 2002
Adam’s Mark Hotel, Denver Colorado
President: Jack R. Hinson
Convention Chairman: Robert H. Malone

 

HIGHLIGHTS: The tour of the Air Force Academy and the Garden of the Gods, The Country Dinner Playhouse, as well as the short walks around downtown Denver and the Capitol Buildings. The skies were crystal clear and the temperatures were mild. But most popular were the visits with old friends. With only 394 attendees, everyone had a chance to visit and reminisce to their hearts content. Al Casey spoke on Grey Eagle night and Bob Baker was supposed to be the speaker on Banquet night, but had to cancel due to emergency surgery. The ever popular Cecil Ewell filled in for him. Max Vickers was elected to Honorary Life Membership for his years of service.

Herbert L. Dabelow was elected President, Robert E. Mangam 1st. Vice President, Dale K. Johnson, 2nd. Vice President, James T. Groves III continues as Secretary. Treasurer Robert J. Lefevre was re-elected and then announced that 2003 would be his last year as Treasurer and that Robert G. Hoch, Jr. was now in training to take over from him at the next Convention. Room rates were $109.00. Membership stands at 3012, including Surviving Spouses.

Historian: C. Max Vickers
 

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

October 9-12, 2003, Radisson South Hotel, Minneapolis, Minnesota
President: Herb Dabelow
Convention Chairman, Joe Lienau



HIGHLIGHTS: The Chanhassen Dinner Theater, the riverboat tours on the Mississippi, the fall colors on the leaves and the incredible Indian Summer weather. Attendance was only 322, but those who came had a great time. Grey Eagle Night began with an introduction by Minnesota’s Governor, Tom Pawlenty and finished with the indefatigable and enjoyable Al Casey. Our banquet speaker was Bob Reding, American Airline’s Senior VP, Technical Operations. At the business meeting, American’s new VP of Flight, Mark Hetterman, and APA’s President, John Darrah both gave presentations on the state of the airline. J. D. Moore was elected to Honorary Life Membership for his many years of service. A motion to review the Grey Eagles Bylaws was introduced and a committee will be appointed to accomplish that and present recommendations for changes at the next convention.

Elected as Grey Eagle Officers for 2004 were: Robert E. Mangam, President, Dale K. Johnson, 1st Vice President and Martin H. O’Leary, 2nd Vice President. James T. Groves, III was re-elected Secretary, and Robert G. Hoch was elected Treasurer. Room rates were $109.00. Membership stands at 2994, including surviving spouses.
 

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

October 7-10, 2004, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Georgia
President Robert E. Mangam
Convention Chairman, George W. McKellar

 


Highlights: The performance of "Chicago" in the magnificent Fox Theater, tours to the Lockheed production line, the botanical gardens, CNN/Coke, beautiful antebellum homes. The Grey Eagle Night was celebrated at Stone Mountain Park. The weather cooperated for the spectacular laser light show. Attendance was 347.
Mark Hetterman, American Airlines Vice President of Flight and Ralph Hunter, APA President spoke at the business meeting, Mary Raymond was elected to Honorary Life Membership for her many years of exemplary service to the Grey Eagles. Bob Crandall was the featured speaker at the banquet. The convention was dedicated to the memory of those crewmembers lost on 9/11.
A collection for the Grey Eagles Foundation raised over $2600. A motion was passed that the Grey Eagles match the contribution, and will bring the total to over $5000.
Elected as Grey Eagle Officers for the year 2005 were: Dale Johnson President, Marty O'Leary First Vice President, Glenn Cribbs Second Vice President. Jim Groves III and Bob Hoch will continue as Secretary and Treasurer respectively, and Roger Hill will continue as Membership Chairman. , Room rates were $105.00, but drink prices were $6.00 and up. Membership stands at 2965 including surviving spouses.
 

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

 

Sheraton Nashville Hotel
Nashville Tennessee
September 29-October 3, 2005
President Dale Johnson
Convention Chairman Don Jensen

Highlights: The Grand Ole Opry Show was attended by 294. Grey Eagle Night was held at the Jack Daniels facility, attended by 421. The crowd was treated to a southern barbeque featuring deep fried catfish, pulled pork, and all the trimmings. Beverages were bourbon or iced tea, complimentary. A local band supplied music for the entire evening. Mother nature supplied a fantastic sunset. Options included a tour of the distillery. Cecil Ewell addressed the crowd at the banquet.

Captains Hetterman and Hunter addressed the attendees at the business meeting.

The following members were elected to office for 2006:
President-Martin O’Leary
First Vice President-Glenn Cribbs
Second Vice President-Art Culver
Secretary-Jim Groves
Treasurer-Bob Hoch

Room price was $99.00, drinks were $6.25 for premium brands, beer $$4.75 for imported, $4.25 for domestic, wine $5.25.

Convention attendance was 485. Grey Eagle Membership, including surviving spouses, was 2918.
 

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

                               October 18 - 30  2006 Cruise-Convention

                              Royal Caribbean "Vision of the Seas"
                                       Doubletree San Pedro Hotel, San Pedro, CA
                               President:  Martin H. O'Leary 
                                  Cruise Agent: Vicki McGowen    

Highlights:  Our first-ever Grey Eagles Cruise Convention departed Los Angeles Harbor on Sunday, 22 October with well over a half thousand members, wives and guests for seven days of great fun, magnificently catered meals, five pre-dinner cocktail hours, and outstanding nightly entertainment. We visited the Mexican Riviera making an extended call at Puerto Vallarta, having bypassed Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlan to avoid inclement weather. Two formal dress events aboard ship brought numerous compliments from other passengers and crew. All Grey Eagles Convention functions were accomplished on the return leg. Our Convention guest speaker was George Warde, former President of American Airlines. He also addressed our members at the business meeting.  Dr. Teena Cahill, noted professional speaker (and wife of Brooks Dyer) spoke at the Ladies function. Starting three days prior to and two days immediately after the cruise, hotel accommodations were available for members at the Doubletree Hotel San Pedro at the Grey Eagle rate of $89. In all, we spent over 730 guest-nights at the hotel and Convention registration and pre-cruise check-in were accomplished there. Bussing was provided to the ship  for the 22 October departure and back to the hotel on 29 October. All members and guests were given free parking at the hotel from 18 through 31 October. Convention attendance was 522.                                                

The following members were elected to office for 2007:
President-Glenn Cribbs
First Vice President-Art Culver
Second Vice President-Don Jensen
Secretary-Jim Groves
Treasurer-Bob Hoch

 

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October 21-26, 2007

Silver Legacy Resort Casino Reno, Nevada

President Glenn E. Cribbs

Convention Chairman John (Jack) Neilon

 

Highlights: The beautiful fall Reno area weather was one of the highlights of the Convention.  The skies were clear and the temperature was in the middle to high 70’s all week.  Those who attended at the LakeRidge Golf Course enjoyed the Golf Tournament.  The tour to the Nevada State Museum and the Nevada State Railroad Museum was popular with lunch at Red’s Old 395 in Carson City.  The Dixie II Lake Tahoe Luncheon Cruises were on glass smooth water.  307 attended the Dancing Queen Show at the Eldorado Theater.  Virginia City sparkled in the October sun. Top Gun School tours at NAS Fallon were popular with the guys as well as lunch at the Officer’s Club.  Two coaches made the trip to scenic Truckee, CA, for lunch and shopping at the many boutiques and specialty shops.   The Ladies Brunch was well attended.  Paul Vandervoort provided soft piano background music for the event.  The National Auto Museum was enjoyed by all that attended.  The surviving spouses were treated to an afternoon tea in the Presidential Suite.  Captain Bill Haug (APA Secretary Treasurer) spoke at the men’s business meeting.  Retired American Airlines President George Warde spoke at Grey Eagle Night.  Mark Twain (MacAvoy Layne) provided down home entertainment on Banquet Night.  Room Rates were $62 and 411 attended the Convention.

 

The following members were elected to Office for 2008

President-Art Culver

First Vice President- Don Jensen

Second Vice President- Gary Yudell

Secretary- Jere Francis

Treasurer- Bob Mangam