It was a statistical inevitability that our group numbers would dwindle with the passage of time. But we, as a group, are at the crossroads. We don’t have the numbers anymore needed to stage a proper reunion. Therefore, with the board of directors in full agreement, we have decided to join the 15th Air Force for all future reunions, beginning with their October 2023 reunion in the Washington DC Area.

As you already know, the 463rd Bomb Group was a part of the 5th Bombardment Wing of the 15th Air Force during World War II. The 15th was made up of B-17 and B-24 Bombardment groups. Our fellow 5th Wing, B-17 bomb groups, the 99th and the 483rd, are already participating in these joint reunions. The reunions are mainly made up of fellow second and third generation “Kids” just like our group. So there will be a lot of passionate people there honoring their late relatives who served in the 15th during the war. Since we are not organizing this reunion, the hotel, itinerary and meals will be coordinated by the 15th. You will be registering directly with them. However, the 463rd Bomb Group will probably be gathering a couple of days prior to the 15th reunion at the same hotel to toast the 463rd on our own. More info to follow.

This reunion is being organized by the 15th AF and registration will be collected by them. Here are the particulars:

The Hotel for the reunion will be the Westin Dulles Hotel. To reserve rooms, please call 1-866-932-7062 and tell them you’re booking with the BOMB GROUP REUNION. If you would like to book online there is a link that is  posted on the 15th AF web site (www.15thaf.org). All reunion information released by the 15th AF will be available on our own site (www.463rd.org) at the same time. Room rate is $112 per night plus tax and includes breakfast buffet for 2 per room. Rooms are available at the group rate from October 9 – 18, 2023 (including shoulder dates), to allow extra time before and after the reunion to take advantage of the nearly endless list of things to see and do in the Washington DC area. Reservations must be made by September 22, 2023 to be guaranteed the group rate. Cancellations may be made until 48 hours prior to arrival. The hotel is pet friendly. Parking is free. Go to the 15th AF web site to book online! See the Link Below!

At this point much of the reunion itinerary is still being worked out. If you go to the 15th AF site they have a working itinerary that will give you a better idea of their plans.

We are currently making plans for our group to get together a couple of days prior to the 15th AF reunion as a farewell to our stand-alone reunions. Stay tuned to the web site, July Newsletter and the “Kids of the 463rd Bomb Group” facebook page for more info. Full registration, itinerary and meal choices will be included in the 463rd Bomb Group Newsletter in July. Hope to see you there!