October 8, 2025

What a great reunion we had in Tucson.  The comments we have gotten included, fabulous reunion, best ever, etc.  We really do appreciate your support.  I was so happy that MajGen Kyle Ellison, Commanding General of the 3rd Marine Division in Okinawa, came and brought 4 of his staff with him.  We had a great celebration for the Marine Corps' 250th Birthday.  Lots of fun outings and fun evening events in the hotel.  Probably the most poignant and perhaps the best moment of the reunion was when we had a flag folding ceremony during our banquet.  Two of the Color Guard slowly and reverently folded the flag while I read the meaning of each fold.  They then placed the folded flag very respectfully on the missing man table.  You could hear a pin drop along with some tears.  MajGen Ellison got rave reviews for his time with us as he was extremely personable and highly energetic.  I think he spoke individually to almost everyone while he was with us.  He showed what a caring person he was.  He was so happy to be with us.

THANK YOU 2/3 VVA FOR JOINING US IN TUCSON!  IT WAS GREAT TO HAVE YOU.  LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR BECOMING A PART OF OUR FAMILY.

Thank you to the planning team: Chair, Linda North, Roger Bacon, Jimmy Pitts, Ellie Bacon, Beth Pitts, and Bob North.  Lots of work goes into making this a great event.

Thank you to everyone who came.  Let me encourage those of you on the sidelines to get on board with us.

The very best to all of you.

Semper Fidelis,
Robert North, President
3rd Marine Division Association, Inc.