REFLECTIONS ON THE WORLD WAR II TANK DESTROYER SOCIETY RALLY AT
FORT KNOX, KENTUCKY, 9-12 NOVEMBER 1999
CALVIN C. BOYKIN JR., PRESIDENT    

For those unable to participate in the Fort Knox Rally it is our duty to report that you missed an exhilarating experience. Although only some sixteen Society members plus seven of their wives and a few family members and guests participated, we thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of Fort Knox. We were made to feel most welcome at the Fort’s new Wickham Guest House, where all the courtesies were extended, including free transportation around the Fort.

Thanks to the fine efforts of our first vice president, Bill Oettle, who earlier had pointed out the need for repairs to the base of the Tank Destroyer Force Monument in Armor Memorial Park, and to our National Coordinator, Bob French, and to vice president Dayton Edie, who saw to it that the proper plaques to the Force were installed in time for a rededication of the Monument, our Rally met its intended goal. Edie, our man on the ground, coordinated our local arrangements with efficiency throughout the Rally.

Although we experienced some gusty wind on the 10th, temperatures remained mild, resulting in ideal weather for our 11:00 AM Rededication Ceremony of the Monument to the Tank Destroyer Force. The Color Guard and the Band of Fort Knox performed most impressively throughout the Ceremony, the band including its fine rendition of the Tank Destroyer Song among its medley of selections. Lieutenant Colonel Henderson, on behalf of Major General B. B. Bell, Commander of Fort Knox and the Armor Center, welcomed us warmly, noting our distinguished guest, Brigadier General Robert Cundiff (Retired), who served with the 644th Tank Destroyer Battalion in WW II, and in other wars, including Korea and Vietnam. Colonel Henderson then provided us with an overview of the Tank Destroyer Force, the details reflecting his genuine interest in the accomplishments of the Force during World War II. Society President Calvin Boykin gave the keynote address, one paying honor to the offices and men who fought, including those who died, and those who supported them at home. He read the inscriptions On the plaques, mentioning the names of the officers who created the Force, the five officers and men of the Force who earned the Medal of Honor, and summarizing the number of brigades, groups, and battalions making up the Force as listed on the plaques.  

Participants in the Rally enjoyed a noon meal on the 10th at Troop Mess Building 1491, reporting they were much impressed by the appearance, courtesy, and interesting conversations held with the young officers at the Mess. Following lunch a tour of the impressive Patton Museum brought memories of all descriptions to those participating in the Rally. Colonel French arranged to use the Museum Theater and to present the video of the Fort Benning Ceremony for the 899th Tank Destroyer Association, the precursor to our own Society. John Purdy, Museum Director, had things ship-shape for our visit, and was around later for detailed discussions of the Armor Force and the Tank Destroyer Force.  

Refreshments were served at a Reception at Gallota’s Restaurant at 6:00 PM, followed by a Banquet. Calvin Boykin served as leader of discussions in a Town Hall Meeting manner, which brought forth brief presentations by General Cundiff John Purdy, Bob French, Bill Oettle, and several other Society members. Reverend Harold Tetlie presented the history of the song, Yellow Rose of Texas, then introduced his friend and member of the Society, Daniel Moses, who rendered, acappella,, a fine rendition of the song, one dating back to the time of Texas Independence from Mexico.

Tuesday - November 9th Registration at the Conference Room

Wickam's Guest House Rate: $47.50 & $57.50 (Suite) Reservations by 30 Oct 99

Tel 1 (502) 942-0490 (More information next page)