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Veterans reconnect at Farragut

Thor Olson, center, shades his eyes while listening to the opening ceremony at the annual Farragut reunion. Olson was 29 when he went through Navy training at Farragut in 1944. (JESSE TINSLEY Photos / The Spokesman-Review)
Herb Huseland The Spokesman-Review
Thor Olson, center, shades his eyes while listening to the opening ceremony at the annual Farragut reunion. Olson was 29 when he went through Navy training at Farragut in 1944. (JESSE TINSLEY Photos / The Spokesman-Review)

Last year at this time, everyone had the longstanding Farragut reunion dead and buried. Old age had taken its toll on veterans, and reunion organizers Gene and Lorraine Cooper had decided they’d had enough. But the Coopers changed their minds and last Saturday a one-day celebration was held at Farragut with an amazing turnout estimated at 250.

Eugene Tabaka, Washington state commander of the “Veterans of Underage,” came from Seattle to reconnect with his buddies from years gone by. Tabaka was among many World War II veterans who lied about their age to get in.

Charles Lish, now of Athol, like many naval veterans, found North Idaho a wonderful place, despite the frigid temperatures and the looming presence of drill instructors. He is among the many Navy vets who returned to the area to settle after the war. Ceremonies began with a formal flag-raising at 9 a.m. and the 21st appearance of the master of ceremonies, Al Leiter. A former park ranger, Leiter has carried on with the tradition, even though he isn’t with the Parks Department anymore.

Following the flag-raising was a welcoming speech by park manager Randall Butt, who is credited with recreating some camp names in use during the war, and coordinating the establishment of a war memorial at the brig.

Former Navy Chaplain Robert Allender presided over a memorial service, and sang his message. The bronze bust of a Navy sailor mounted earlier this year was rededicated and a two-hour tour of the Brig Museum was held afterward, followed by lunch at the covered picnic area.

Lorraine Cooper said two local vets have stepped up to continue this fine tradition as long as possible. There will be a reunion next year, thanks to Bob Moore, of Bayview, and Janice Lauer, of Hayden.

Summer’s waning but music continues

Music rocked out in Bayview last weekend, refusing to accede to the end of summer. The Captain’s Wheel had the Monarch Mountain Band, consisting of Scott and Laurie Reid, and Ray Allen, Friday and Saturday nights, with a rare display of outstanding bluegrass and folk music. JD’s stole the show Saturday with Clint Darnell and friends, starting in the afternoon, and refusing to quit until the wee hours. Running out of ice, JD’s borrowed from their friends at the Captain’s Wheel.

Next weekend at the Wheel, the No Jugs Band, featuring George Bruner and Rick Steiner will appear.