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Excerpts from Jerry Dupuis' November 17, 2007
letter to the crew:
Dear Veteran & Associate Members:
Since the fateful and magical events of our July '07 Reunion Banquet, I
have been contemplating what I would say to you in this letter.... My
obvious purpose here is to motivate each of you to support the construction
of the final phase of our shipboard museum. As you are now well aware....
one of our CL-92 members made a $25,000 challenge grant to the Association
for the completion of the museum. In other words, we get this grant only if
we raise a like or greater amount. Of course, we cannot soon complete the
project without this funding.
As I review the reasons for this monument to our ship, and our past, I
cannot help but think that it will be the single most important contribution
to "our legacy".... (and) While the world may little remember who we
were or, what we did on the USS LITTLE ROCK, the museum will provide generations
to come with a clear vision of the ship's history, her crews and their national
defense mission. Quite simply, we will live on through the museum's exhibits....
The museum will have an "Honor Roll Wall", and those of you who contribute
at least $50.00 will have their names memorialized thereon with a plaque....
the categories, or giving levels.... are fully set out in the....
donation card. Please.... ill out the card, clearly indicating
if your donation is a gift "In Memory Of" another crew member, or for yourself.
Return your gift check, and the card to Frank Berglas, as indicated.
Bear in mind that we will not receive any part of the "challenge grant"
unless we raise a like or greater amount.... Collectively, you have
met every challenge presented during our 17 year history. Why do I think that
you will do so again. Simple faith, I guess.
With your Association's Best Wishes for the Holiday Season, and your continued
Well Being, I remain,
Yours sincerely,
Gerard A. Dupuis
President
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Anticipated Opening Date:
2008 !!