ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Tuesday, October 15, 1996 TAG: 9610150128
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-4 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: Associated Press
BRISTOL
SEVENTY-FIVE VIRGINIA WOMEN, many of whom have known each other since they left England, met in Bristol to catch up on old times over a cup of tea.
When World War II ended in 1945, many American military men brought English brides home with them.
But the GIs' gain was a great loss to many parents in England.
So, to be sure their daughters could come home to England to visit, some English parents formed an organization that would help with travel expenses.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Transatlantic Brides and Parents Association, which has about 4,000 members nationwide and 15 branches in Virginia.
``It's like an extended family,'' said Winifred Campbell, a founding member of the Bristol branch of the club.
The Virginia branches gathered in Bristol over the weekend for an anniversary celebration. About 75 women, many who have known each other since they left England, met to catch up on old times, enjoy a cup of tea and tell stories.
Barbara Byrd of Newport News remembered traveling alone to her new home because her husband had to come back earlier.
``I came over in 1945 on a boat that had many wounded American soldiers. It was a long trip,'' she said.
Byrd spent 10 days traveling across the Atlantic, and when she got to New York she found she couldn't get off the boat until her husband came to sign for her.
For many of the brides, coming to America was an appealing adventure, but at first it was difficult being in a new country away from their families.
``Many of us didn't have anyone over here when we came,'' Campbell said.
She said the club is for anyone of English descent, as well as war brides, their children and families.
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