The 99th Infantry Division Association membership and board of directors voted in July at the Louisville convention to host the final convention July 20-24, 2011.

The site selection committee chose the Kansas City area because of its central location and the convenience of air travel in and out of the Kansas City airport.

The convention committee has partnered with the Doubletree Hotel Overland Park to offer an unforgettable reunion for veterans and their guests.

Room rates are $89 per night and includes a free breakfast buffet. Parking is free and travel to and from the airport is available for a reasonable cost.

“It’s a fabulous hotel and the staff there has promised to pull out all the stops for the 99th’s final reunion,” convention planner Donna Bernhardt said.

The committee is working with Fort Leavenworth to offer a special visit, tour of the museum and lunch at the base. Other tentative plans include a performance by the 312th Army Band and a few special tours.

Special invitations have been extended to the Diggers and Marcel and Mathilde Schmetz (the M&Ms).

Complete details and registration forms will be mailed after the holidays and available in the Checkerboard and online at www.99div.com.

Because this is the final convention, a larger-than-usual attendance is expected. To ensure space for everyone, please RSVP your tentative plans to 99th Infantry Division Association, PO Box 99, Marion KS 66861 or e-mail donna@99div.com.