Class of 1942 Celebrates
65th Reunion

Reunions for the Class of 1942 – the class that had stepped directly into World War II following graduation – seemed to be over. One classmate, however, decided to spearhead one more. Mr. Les Grider (Banning, CA) began contacting his fellow classmates, and the response was enthusiastic.

The class held their 65th anniversary reunion on October 8-10. Thirty-three alumni traveled from Florida, Washington, California, and points in between to attend. The class received messages of congratulations and gratitude from Tom Brokaw and Missouri Governor Matt Blunt.

Joplin High School's JROTC cadets, led by 1SG Richard Banks and 1SG Richard Polley, prepared a program to honor the generation and the veterans' contribution to this nation. The program included the Posting of the Colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Presentation of Service Flags of the five branches of the military. As each Service Flag was presented, the veterans who had served in that branch stood. The Fallen Soldier's Table stood to the side. Taps and the Presentation of the WWII flag finished the ceremony.

The Joplin High School Strolling Strings performed a selection of familiar songs as they wound their way among the tables.

Fred Tando (Nixa, MO), a graduate in the class, presented Joplin High School with a donation on behalf of the Class of 1942 in the amount of five thousand dollars. The money will be divided among ten students who exhibit merit and need.

The banquet evening finished with a picture show of the classmates' high school and war years. Each attendee received a DVD of the presentation to take home.

Although the classmates' old high school hangouts – the C&A, El Rancho, and Fox Theater – are gone, the memories and the bonds of friendship forged by the shared experience of World War II remain.

posted 10/24/07