From the Fall 2009 Octoraro Loop.

On Saturday, July 18, 2009, the Tenth Annual Reunion of the HSRAA was one of our biggest yet with over 150 Alumni gathered for the celebration, a great BBQ meal and entertainment! "Heegard-Rettew Day" was a great success, enjoyed by the returning Alumni and especially Ernie and JB! Members of Camp Horseshoe and Camp John H. Ware 3rd from past generations were on hand for their traditional Class Pictures.

Returning Alumni had opportunities to tour camp, see the Aquatics meet at the pool; to enjoy reuniting with other HSRAA members and retell stories of their past camp days (slightly embellished over the years!). Bob Matje, Reunion Chairman, along with Stu Watson delivered a great time for all. There was song and food, great pig roast for attendees, opportunities to tour both Horseshoe and Ware camps, trade patches, view memorabilia of the "olden" days, videos, slides, etc. and to have a great time!

Ernie and JB were particularly happy when a contemporary of theirs joined in the celebration. Ron Sykes who had served on the Horseshoe Staff in the 1940's returned to pay respects to the honorees. Ron had been the HQ Director and the Handicraft Director in his early days. He also served as Camp OA Sakima and was a representative to an early National OA Conclave.

The HSRAA formalities started off in the late afternoon with a tribute to the memory of Jim Gawthrop. Among the tributes were those from Fred Gates, Bill Waxbom, Andy Fish, John Souder, Ernie Heegard, JB, Bob Matje and others. Jim had served as Troop 53 Scoutmaster and the OA Lodge 22 for many years as an Advisor. He had been a Horseshoe camper from the early 40's.

Following the Gawthrop memorial tributes, all joined in the evening Flag Retreat Ceremony. After the lowering of the flag, the Senior Patrol leaders were called on to put their troops "at ease". Upon the American Flag being folded, it was carried and presented to Ernie Heegard by Noah Austin as the voice over the "P.A." related the outstanding accomplishments of Ernie Heegard as he was formally presented with the Flag in his honor. This was shortly followed by a tribute to JB for his service to the Horseshoe Scout Reservation and the Chester County Council, BSA. He was presented with the Flag of Chester County Council, BSA by Staff member Graham Lenker of Devon 50.

Following the sumptuous pig roast supper, and a song lead by Ernie, special tributes to JB and Ernie were presented. Among those presenters were Bill Lenker, John Kemmerer, Bob Matje, Stu Watson, Board Member Ken Tunnell, Steve D'Antonio, John Souder, Chris Rettew, Neil Chippendale, and Bill Waxbom among many others...

In all it was a great evening and celebration of two men who have served the Council and Camps for over 65 years each!