Quarterly Speakers Series - Steve Miska

Steve Miska was our Quarterly Speaker, appearing October 12 at the VFW Hall in Manassas. Col. Miska USA (Ret) wrote a book called “Baghdad, Underground Railroad”. It Is the real story of his efforts to get his translator out of Iraq and into the United States. The evening he spoke, the events of the Afghan withdrawal were playing out in the news and on everyone’s TV.

Col Miska discussed his book and the parallels of his efforts to what was unfolding in the news. This unexpected drama made his topic relevant and spellbinding. He explained how difficult the translator’s life is when committed to helping his American friends negotiate their mission in a foreign land. And, how Americans must look out for people who give up the safety of their family to help the American military.

It was a fascinating evening and I still think about the mission critical friends left behind in Iraq and Afghanistan and what we owe them and their families for their loyal service.

Also during this event, Quilts of Honor’s President, Madonna Robatin, presented quilts to Col. Miska and Jerry Sproles for their service. It was a moving experience to watch the presentation ceremony.

Recap: Christmas Dinner

We met this year at City Tavern in Manassas. The food was good, chicken Marsalla, Salmon, and Roast Beef. The entertainment was the President presenting the year in review. The slide show captured the highlights of our move from the Manassas Regional Airport to 9129 Center Street with all our artifacts. Thanks to Able Moving, we completed the move in one day. The pictures of boxes in our new museum home were haunting. We had to create a museum in an empty space. Everyone pitched in to help. Ray Baybrook, Pam Porter, Carol Campbell, Tom Hueg, Jim Ortte and many others. The dinner was a celebration of a great year for the Museum and a job well done by all of our volunteers.

Recap: The Veterans Day Parade

The Museum participated in the Northern Virginia Veterans Day Parade. November 6th. This was an early morning get up for people like Ron Link. It started out a bit chilly, but it got warmer as the day went on. “The jeep, ambulance and bomber nose were a big hit with the hometown crowd,” boasted Ray Baybrook. Diane Dubois brought donuts and coffee and all who came to this event had a good time.

VETPAR was the primary organizer, and they did a great job of highlighting Manassas’s veterans. After the Parade, the Museum was open to visitors and there were many. Jim Ortte, dressed as a WWII soldier, posed after the parade in the windows of the Museum. Several thought he was a mannequin and were surprised when he moved to greet them.

Recap: Bell Ringing -
The 11th Hours of the 11th Day

Tom Hueg led us in an impressive bell ringing ceremony commemorating the armistice of Nov 11, 1918, ending the first World War. The names of the 34 soldiers from Manassas were read as Jim Porter rang the Freedom Museum Bell. You can see the names of those soldiers on the Local Heroes Wall in the Museum and see their pictures and read their stories.

Recap: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

We were most honored when the Mayor, the Honorable Michelle Davis-Younger cut the ribbon, officially opening the Museum in our new location. She brought with her many of the City Council members making us feel welcome in our new home. It was quite a celebration, thanks to all who made it possible. Tammy’s Perkin’s food spread was amazing and all who came and supported the Museum on opening day, couldn’t help feeling this was truly an historic occasion.