At Ease with the Eisenhower Society at World War II Museum

Eisenhower Society members and associates gathered on July 19 at the World War II American Experience Museum for our new “At Ease with the Eisenhower Society” event. Our theme was Ike, Mamie and World War II. Attendees had the opportunity to view the museum exhibits at their leisure. Other activities included attending an interpretive program, “Ike and Monty: Two Proud Generals” presented by park ranger John Tuskan. It was standing room only in the seminar room! Guests also had the opportunity to climb a ladder to stand on the top of a Sherman tank and look inside while American Experience Museum host Adam Buck explained what they were seeing. This activity proved very popular as there was a constant line as guests waited their turn.

Dinner was served in the motor pool garage and catered by Ragged Edge Coffee Shop. We all appreciated the air conditioning! While waiting for their turn at the buffet line, guests worked on World War II-themed trivia questions with their tablemates. Thanks to sponsors Duane and Linda Williams, everyone enjoyed a glass of wine. After dinner our hosts, Adam and Loni Buck, were introduced as well as the interns working at the Eisenhower National Historic Site. The Eisenhower Society provides living stipends for two summer interns and one fall intern. These stipends are supported by donations from the Robert M. Lauman Foundation and Mary Ann Pirello.

This year’s trivia questions proved to be hard! Two winning tables got four questions out of 12 correct. Thanks to Dairy Queen of Gettysburg our winners and second place finishers received ice cream cone gift certificates. There were many door prizes awarded as well. Our entertainment was provided by Vanessa Rice who played 1940s music during dinner. Afterward vocalist Ernie Kranius joined her to sing songs that were popular during the World War II era. Special guest soloist, Wayne Hill, sang White Cliffs of Dover to everyone’s enjoyment. We thank David and Cynthia Salisbury for sponsoring our entertainment. Everyone received an I Like Ike cookie as they departed.

Thanks to our other sponsors: Ken and Sally Weiler, Steve and Theresa Wiseman, Mary Lowe Mayhugh, Bill Spracher, Chris Burne, Walt Jones, Tom and Barbara Vossler, Ruthmary and Bob McIlhenny, and Ellis Grossnickle.  Door prizes were provided by: Casteel Sculptures, Beyond the Battle Museum, Dobbin House, Furs by Susan, Gettysburg Eddie’s, Gettysburg Heritage Center/Nature Alliance, Chris Burne, Event Network, Kirk Jones, Ken Weiler and Carol Hegeman.

To learn more about the World War II American Experience, visit https://visitww2.org

We look forward to next year’s At Ease program and hope you can join us!