At the break of dawn on Sunday, September 8, a bus loaded with local senior citizens departed for Wildwood/Cape May, New Jersey, for five days of entertainment, fun, and relaxation. The trip was planned and arranged by Al and Marilyn Kline of O-WE-GO Tours.

 Before reaching the shore there was a stop at the New Jersey State Aquarium in Camden. This is a wonderful exhibit that featured many forms of sea life. The main attraction was several types of sharks in a huge tank with large glass panels. The sharks would swim up to the glass barrier inches away from the spectators. The vast variety of fish and the number of tanks were impressive. Docked within walking distance is the battleship New Jersey which can be boarded by visitors. Across the river are the remains of the old Philadelphia Navy Yard and some old war ships.

 We arrived at Wildwood about 5:30 pm. The motel was on the beach and was a welcome sight as were the lovely accommodations. Al and Marilyn did a splendid job arranging the activities and there never seemed to be a dull moment. One day was spent in Atlantic City, about 60 miles away. On arrival, some immediately took off for the casino for some serious gaming. The others went sightseeing on the boardwalk. The gamblers returned to the bus somewhat wiser, but with lighter pockets. Needless to say, no one struck it rich. No one complained, nor did anyone return in a barrel.

 Another day was spent on the high seas, whale watching. It seems no one told the whales we were there, but their cousins, the dolphins put on a spectacular show. When a dense fog started to set in and the ocean became rocky, the skipper decided to return to the dock. The following day was for those who planned to shop for gifts and take in the sights of Cape May. Several seniors remained on the bus and made an unscheduled trip to the Cape May County Airport. A part of the airport is dedicated to an aviation museum. During World War II, this airport was the U.S. Naval Air station, Wildwood (NAS) and home to the Atlantic Fleet Carrier Aircraft Service Unit 24 (CASU24). During the war, over 200 aircraft, mainly F4U Corsair and SB2C Helldivers were assigned to the NAS. Thirty-eight airmen and a number of base personnel lost their lives during the war at the NAS. One of the tour group was briefly assigned to CASU24 during the war. Returning to the base after 57 years was an emotional experience, bringing back memories of events and shipmates.

 One fun filled day featured a Chinese Auction, dinner, and then it was off to the Middle Township Performance Arts Center for a fabulous night of the top tunes of the 40s performed by the Quales. One day was for sightseeing in Wildwood, or swimming in the ocean or the pool at the motel, or both. You could rent a bike or play miniature golf.

 On September 11, time was set aside to pray for the victims of the World Trade Center disaster and their families.

 On the way home a stop was made at an enormous flea market in Columbus, New jersey. All in all it was a worthwhile trip and the group made it extra special. We will do it again any time.

Anthony Fusco and Al Kline in the hangar of the Air Museum NAS Wildwood. Fusco was briefly assigned to CASU24 during World War II while in the Navy.
 

Al Kline oversees the Chinese Auction on the beach at Wildwood.