October 2007 by Charles Brecheisen

MINI-REUNION: The 'mini' reunion was a howling success! Over 26 shipmates, many with their wives attended. Tom and Sandi Planes did an absolutely outstanding job setting this up and providing the goodies. Many thanks and hats off to Tom and Sandi! And, thanks to all the shipmates that attended.

MAJOR-REUNION: Please mark October 24-27 October 2008 on your calendars, as that will be the dates of our next reunion. The Charleston location to be determined later, but information will be forthcoming as soon as possible.

WEB SITE: Check out the updated Altair web site at http://www.ussaltair-aks32.org Martin Summann is the Webmaster and has done an outstanding job of upgrading the site. Remember, all photographs go to Dick Braun dbraun@msbservices.com and visit our blog site at http://www.altair.smugmug.com

FINANCIAL: The beginning balance was $3054.46 with $80.00 in income and no expenses leaving a balance of $3134.46. This includes the Altair plaque money.

DUES: Yearly dues will be due in January of each year. This will simplify matters and make easier to keep records.

SHIPMATE PASSING: I received the following email:

"This is to inform you that Ronald Eckhard passed away October 19, 2007 from esophagael cancer. He fought a long and difficult battle. You will find him buried in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Donna Eckhard"

Shipmate Eckhard was a MA2 1960-1961 and Mrs. Eckhard can be reached at:

5050 Clayridge Drive Apt. 107
St. Louis, MO 63129

I sent Mrs. Eckhard a return email plus a sympathy card from all the Altair shipmates.

All for now. Please contact me at cmbaltairaks32@fastmail.us with any comments or questions.

Best Regards To All.........Charles