Marine Corps Interrogator Translator Teams Association
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2006
Gathering Report A small but vibrant group of faithful members assembled once again for the MCITTA 4th Annual Gathering to enjoy the camaraderie of old friends and fellow Marine Interrogators. Many stalwart members who participated at previous events were unable to attend for various reasons, but sent their "hellos" and well wishes. A few new faces were present and were most well received: Jim Massie and his wife Sherry; Jose Vizcarro and wife Elizabeth; Charles Ables; and MGySgt Jorge Miranda from HQMC, who not only enjoyed the festivities but presented a most well received synopsis of the ongoing changes in the HUMINT business within the Marine Corps. Special thanks to Vince Burdelski for making an effort to stop in and raise a glass while on his way to Las Angeles on business. A total of 32 members and spouses made up a warm and friendly group.
20 AUGUST
Our first evening included a reception in the Hospitality Suite of the
Green Valley Ranch Resort and Spa. The lavish hotel provided a wonderful
setting and the Hospitality Suite arranged by the Gathering host, Howard
Young, was elegant and most comfortable. Team Commander Harry Todd made
a welcoming presentation and then it was on with the festivities.
After hors d'oeuvres and drinks with much socialization, the group adjourned
to various venues in the local area for informal dinner, partying and
early to bed after a long day of traveling.
21 AUGUST
An
early departure from the hotel saw many of us bleary-eyed but enthusiastic
to proceed to Nellis Air Force Base for the Annual Memorial Service. As
always, this solemn event touches us all as we read and recall the names
of our brother Marine Interrogators who have been lost in battle from
World War II, Vietnam, Beirut and Iraq.
Our reception at the Nellis AFB chapel by Chaplain 1stLt Scott Kiser, USAF was most gracious. Chaplain Kiser extended himself to make this event memorable. He arranged for a pianist for accompanying music to our ceremony, and made a special request for the Nellis AFB Honor Detail consisting of a Color Guard, Firing Detail and Bugler.
Following
the Memorial Service, the group proceeded to the Nellis Bowling Arena
for lunch followed by an afternoon of group bowling. All had a great fun
afternoon. Although Jeff Smith took the honors with high score, he is
a self-proclaimed "tiger" of the bowling alleys, even bringing
his own ball, shoes, and wrist guard. On the other hand, Judy Weist was
most impressive with her score as a rank beginner and we give her the
laurel.
The
evening found a very fun group at Lucille's Bar-B-Que in The District
across from the Green Valley Ranch enjoying delicious western-style bar-b-que
and lively conversation. A surprise Happy Birthday was given to Mitch
Paradis and the group serenaded him with the birthday song. Following
a great meal and this fun event and a great day, people were on their
own for the remainder of the evening to enjoy the Hospitality Suite or
some gambling in the sumptuous and well-appointed GVR casino, or general
relaxation in the many venues close to the hotel and made for action.
22 AUGUST
A
very early tee time at the Nellis AFB Golf Course, saw a small group of
five die-hard golf lovers trying to beat the Las Vegas heat and get in
a round before they collapsed. The scores were not spectacular but didn't
detract from the camaraderie enjoyed by Jim Riemer, Mitch Paradis, Jim
Haskins, Chuck Chlarson and John Lopez (the shadow). This group is always
looking for a golf game, especially when it is with such great friends.
At
1400 all hands met in the Hospitality Suite for the General Assembly meeting.
As usual there was much discussion and debate on the issues that govern
the Association. The first order of new business was to establish guidelines
for the forthcoming election of officers in 2007. At this time we are
enjoying ample volunteers who have come forward to place their name in
nomination for all offices. The showing of support was reassuring that
our Association will continue to enjoy maximum growth and participation.
A copy of the Minutes can viewed by following the link at the end of this
web-report.
Evening
activities consisted of the group heading to "The Strip" for
a Variety show at the Aladdin. This show was extremely entertaining and
made for a most worthwhile evening. Folks getting together for post-show
activities and a rehash of this most enjoyable event followed. 
Coffee,
desert and drinks continued a delightful evening of camaraderie.
23 AUGUST
A special event of this day was an exceptional briefing my MGySgt Jorge
Miranda, CI/HUMINT Chief of the Marine Corps. Master Gunny Miranda held
everyone's interest as he articulately explained the Marine Corps' decision
to "re-describe" the 0211 MOS and "re-designate" the
0251 structure to create a single active duty CI/HUMINT Specialist. Miranda
spent a most interesting three hours with the members presenting the Marine
Corps' position and how the two MOSs were assimilated into the one and
how it is working today in the current combat theater.
The
remainder of the day was spent on individual activities and enjoying the
many amenities of the resort. At 1800 all hands mustered at the Enlisted
Club of Nellis Air Force Base for the social hour. At 1900 we all sat
down to the evening banquet.
Following
the meal, Felix Conde gave a splendid introduction to the new Last Man
memorial table. He explained how the flag on display was retrieved from
U.S. Army CWO Ashley Tyler who was entrusted with the flag by the 11th
ITT in Vietnam. The flag case was hand made Team Commander Harry Todd.
A former Marine commissioned by Felix made the beautiful oak display case
for the crystal carafe containing special spirits to be used only for
the Last Man toast and salute. The handsome case lent a special touch
to the display and will remain a significant of our MCITTA proceedings.
Team
Commander Harry J. Todd then gave a brief State of the Association address
and thanked the many members who have worked so diligently to advance
the organization and to ensure its growth. Of special note was the beautiful
banner draped from the speaker's podium. Consisting of the MCITTA initials
and logo, this banner was created and paid for by Lois Todd. Her special
gift to the Association will be cherished for many years to come and adds
a special touch to our proceedings.
Following
the speeches and toasting of the Marine Corps, the evening culminated
with dancing and music provided by our own Mike Bianchino. Mike brought
his karaoke setup from Sierra Vista and not only provided the dance music
but sang through most of the evening in his dulcet tones reminiscent of
his Italian crooner idol, Frank Sinatra.
No MCITTA Gathering is complete without the obligatory Ladies Line Dance- always fun and always a laugh. Nice going, Ladies.
The MCITTA extends a heartfelt thanks and well done to all those who made the 4th MCITTA Annual Gathering such a success: Howard Young the event coordinator; Felix Conde for his special Last Man display; Mike Bianchino for his musical talent and entertainment; MGySgt Jorge Miranda for his special presentation; and all the members who attended to make this such a special event. The annual monetary donations from members need special attention. Your generosity shows your support and keeps our MCITTA going and growing. We look forward to seeing you all in June of 2007 for another fine event in a new and exciting venue of Nashville hosted by Harold and Judy Weist. See you there!
Reunion:
Minutes of General
Assembly Meeting - 22 August 2006
Updated:10/15/08
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