The Hilton Kansas City Airport was host to the 4/9 Infantry Manchu Association Reunion this past week. Over 175 veterans and guests attended this annual reunion of Vietnam Veterans.
The event kicked off on Wednesday with most registering that day and reacquainting themselves with others. After a complimentary breakfast each morning, a bus departed for the tour of the day. Wednesday’s overview of the city took them by Lewis and Clark Point, Union Station, and the Liberty Memorial before arriving for lunch and shopping at Country Club Plaza. On Thursday, they discovered the treasures of the Steamboat Arabia, sunk in 1856, but excavated in 1988. Now, the remarkably preserved frontier supplies including jewelry, china, and more are on display for all to see. After lunch at City Market, the group travelled on to the recently renovated Museum of Toys & Miniatures to see various toys dating back to the 1800s… a trip down memory lane for sure. A visit to the mid-west wouldn’t be complete without going to Independence, Missouri, home of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum. Consequently, on Saturday, the group saw a full-scale reproduction of the White House Oval Office, circa 1948 and a film depicting the life of Harry Truman. Once back at the hotel Saturday afternoon, the group held their business meeting before getting ready for the Banquet and Auction. Most said their good byes before departing the ballroom Saturday evening, but all are in high-hopes of seeing each other next year in San Antonio.
Armed Forces Reunions, Inc. was first selected to be the group’s exclusive reunion planner for the 2007 reunion, and we’ve been honored to plan ten of the Manchu’s reunions!