In the fall of 1960 a crisis evolved among world powers involved in World War II for influence on world politics culminating in a call by President Kennedy to U.S. Army reserve units throughout the country for service.

In answer to that call, the 329th Chemical Company (DECON) of Natchez was transferred to active duty status, common among today’s population, and assigned to Fort McClellan, Ala.

The period was post-Korea and pre-Vietnam. The lessons of Korea were just being truly learned and training prior to deployment was becoming the norm. The tour of active duty for this group ended in 1961 in September.

Since the return of that group to private life, survivors have grown close and began to have reunions in the 1990s. A gathering commemorating 50 years of memories is scheduled for this weekend. Toward the end of these celebrations, a religious memorial service will be at Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church. The public is invited to this memorial service at 3 p.m. Sunday.

Ralph W. Jennings

Natchez resident