Shipmates,

I am very pleased to make this report on the Holland Club Breakfast that was held during the convention in Peoria. Much thanks and appreciation to all who participated and a special thank you to Phil Phillips and to the members of Peoria Base for all that did in hosting the Holland Club.

Accommodations were outstanding, food was delicious, service was excellent. It was everything that anyone could have asked for.

Over 80 Holland Club members, wives, shipmates and distinguished guest joined together for a great kickoff to the convention.

We had the pleasure of having the following VIP's, in attendance: NCDR Jack Ensminger, NJVC John Peters, Holland Club Vice Cdr. John Dempster and Phil Phillips Peoria Base CDR. Phil joined with us despite all the problems he was handling due to the WTC incident.

We had a Holland Club Induction presided over by Jim Rolle Drum Base for Shipmate Glen D. Smith. Shipmate Smith was inducted into Holland Club and welcomed aboard by all hands.

Holland Club Desktop Pen sets were presented to NCdr. Ensminger, NJVC John Peters, Memorial Chairman Pat Ulman, National Parliamentarian Ed Yoder, Host Base Cdr. Phil Phillips and National Chaplain Sam Eddy.

The NCdr. led us in the Pledge Of Allegiance. Chaplain Eddy gave the benediction and the "Final Patrol" report.

Holland Club business meeting was brief. Officers for coming year remain the same.

Each of the Holland Club members in attendance was presented with a Holland Club desktop plaque. All of the ladies present were given a nautical gift by the Holland Club Commander's wife, Louise Britt.

I was pleased to meet a number of old shipmates including shipmate Pete Sococo, a shipmate from 55 years past - also my Commanding Officer from the USS CUTLASS SS-487, Captain Carl Groneman, whom I served with 47 years back. It was great to see my old shipmates.

Looking forward to Duluth.... Remember next year all hands and ladies are welcome to attend our breakfast. You do not have to be a Holland Club member to join in with the Holland Club breakfast. All Shipmates are welcome.

Respectfully Submitted.

Pride Runs Deep

Bill Britt Holland Club Commander