Rip Roaring Ramstein Reunion

There's no mistaking the Don Cesar Beach Resort and Spa. Instantly known as Florida's Pink Castle when it opened back in 1928, this ten-story hotel sits on the sugary sands of St. Pete Beach, an island in the Gulf of Mexico. Mediterranean and Moorish architectural motifs and the hotel's cotton-candy-colored facade and lush tropical surroundings stand in inviting contrast against Florida's Caribbean-blue sky. Originally named for the chivalrous Don Ce-Sar in Vincent Wallace's light opera Maritana, the Don (as it is locally known) was built by Thomas Rowe, who spared no expense on this balcony- and terrace-lined building. Marble fountains, lofty ceilings and rich furnishings are just a few of the alluring details of this 277-guest-room resort, most with views of the Gulf of Mexico or Boca Ciega Bay. Easy access to the beach, golf shuttles, two pools, a full-service fitness center and spa, children's activities, daily sailing and waverunning clinics--it even served as a training camp for the New York Yankees.

This hotel was a perfect spot for the Rip Roaring Ramstein Reunion that I attended.  This was a reunion of the 417th and 526 Tactical Fighter Squadrons originally based in Ramstein and Hahn Air Force Bases in Germany.  As you can imagine there were lots of "old fighter pilot" stories all around the hotel.  My first husband, Duane, was a pilot in the 417th so I try to attend these reunions, which happen every two years.

On arriving at the hotel Ron and Bernice began investigating the hotel and I splurged on a pedicure and manicure in the hotel.  The pedicure so welcome after the long days of walking at Disney World.  Walking around the grounds we ran into an old friend, Earl and his lovely new wife, Shirley.  After lots of chit chat we enjoyed dinner on the outdoor patio.  My friend Annie, from southern California, showed up and we made plans for the next day.  Days were spent walking the beach or sitting in the hospitality room swapping stories from the "old days".  Great to see old friends like the Sarchets, the Mussers, the Tanners, the Godfrey kids, Dave Rohr and his two lovely daughters, the Deeds and many more old friends.  Looking forward to San Diego in two years.