April 8, 2023: Despite poor weather, the long-planned event commemorating the 82nd anniversary of the Opening of WWII Camp Davis was a successful & fun day! Heavy rain forced the relocation of the event into the Holly Ridge Volunteer Fire Dept. Bldg, which was adjacent to the outside areas planned for the living history displays. Volunteers set up their displays, exhibits, and even two WWII jeeps inside the Fire Dept. Many thanks to the HRVFD who made our “plan B” successful! The HRVFD held a hot dog lunch as a fund raiser and the event planners coordinated with the firefighters for all volunteers to enjoy a complimentary lunch. The weather, though miserable, really did not hamper visitation as between 400-500 people stopped by and perused the many great displays featuring uniformed WWII living history reenactors. Besides Antiaircraft troops, WACs (Women’s Army Corps) and British troops were represented. The Topsail Island Historical Society set up an exhibit on the WASPs. Two WWII jeeps were also placed in the fire department for visitors to enjoy. Terrible weather-great program! A sincere “thank you” to all the volunteers who made this special day a success!
