The plans for the 2001 Boxcar reunion in Savannah GA are proceeding smoothly. Remember that this will be a joint reunion with the 147th Hillclimber Association.

Casual dress is the norm in Savannah. It will be plenty hot in August, so pack accordingly.

Plans have been finalized for a visit and tour on August 10th to "The Mighty 8th Air Force Heritage Museum". We plan on starting the tour, at the Museum, between 10 and 10:30AM which means we will have to leave the hotel between 9 and 9:30AM. The museum has discounted our ticket prices to $5 apiece and is looking forward to hosting our group.

I have received many inquiries about sightseeing opportunities in and around Savannah. I can only say they abound. Savannah predates the Revolutionary War, with Count Casmir Pulaski being mortally wounded at the Springhill redoubt during the Battle of Savannah. The markers in the Colonial Cemetery provide an insight of the early history of Savannah and of course, the book and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" is based on actual characters and events that have occured within the city. A tour of the downdown area and riverfront will reveal exquisite architecture as well as many buildings of historic significance, including the Custom's House, Telfair Arts Academy, Ship's of the Sea Museum, sherman's Headquarters, the Gingerbread House and Cotton Exchange. The historic preservation area in and around downtown Savannah is quite large with many locations on the National Historic Register. Guided tours are available, via bus, trolley, carriage or walking. I will try to have all of the tour information available at our hospitality room. Fort Pulaski, built under the direction of LT Robert E. Lee, is located on US Highway 80 E on the way to the beach, (Tybee Island), and Old Fort Jackson is located about 1.5 miles east of downtown on the river. For those of you that were once stationed at Hunter AAF or Fort Stewart, Claxton GA, located about 45 minutes west of Savannah, is still considered "Fruit Cake Capitol of the World"

For those of you arriving by air, the airport is located just off I-95 north of the city. Driving time from the airport to the hotel is approximately 30 minutes, depending on the time of day. (Traffic is heavy between 4 and 6PM in the area of the hotel and as you exit I-516.) All major rental car companies are located at the airport. Cab fare from the airport to the hotel is approximately $24 for one person. Some shuttle services are available, with costs varying from service to service. Check for availability at the airport.

I hope to see as many of you as possible in Savannah this August. Quite a few "first timers" that will attend this year's reunion have contacted me. Renewing old friendships is, as the commercial goes, "priceless"!

See you in August

Steve Niedbala
Boxcar Association President