The DoDDS XIII

The thirteenth reunion of overseas educators (DoDDS XIII) was held in Wichita, KS. Accommodation and meal arrangements for the event were made by John and Barbara Williams. Arrangements were made between AOSHS and the city of Wichita to celebrate the site dedication of the AOSHS Historical Park.

The dedication ceremony was held on the acreage along the Arkansas River where the park will be built. A museum, archives, small auditorium and administrative offices are a part of the design. The speakers at the dedication ceremony, hosted by Dr. Thomas Drysdale, included Ms. Sharon Fearey and Mr. Ernest Garcia, city dignataries; Dr. Joseph Tafoya, Director of the DoD Education Activity; Col. Ron Ladnier, Commander 22nd Air Refueling Wing; and Dr. Jon Engelhardt, Dean of the College of Education at Wichita State University. The 312th US Army Reserve Band provided music for the event.

Along with the 500 educators attending the ceremony, the ranks were swelled by approximately 500 “Overseas Brats” who were also meeting in Wichita at this time. This Historical Park site is dedicated to those who sat on both sides of the desk.