Chicago Department of Aviation
Honor Flight Chicago Sponsors Final Veterans' Flight of 2011

This morning, 98 World War II veterans received a celebratory send-off at Midway International Airport for a day trip to the National WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C. hosted by Honor Flight Chicago.

 

Today marked Honor Flight Chicago's 10th and final flight of the 2011 season, which began in April.

 

"On behalf of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the City of Chicago, I want to commend Honor Flight Chicago President Mary Pettinato and her staff of volunteers for their dedication to this effort," said Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) Commissioner Rosemarie S. Andolino. "We are proud of our veterans and grateful for their service to this country.  Honor Flight Chicago provides a big thank you to thousands of Chicago area veterans by providing this memorable experience in our nation's capital."

 

Honor Flight November 2 2011

Members of the Legacy Girls, an Andrews Sisters tribute group, pose with WWII veterans at Midway International Airport.

The celebration included a traditional roll-call and performances by the Andrews Sisters tribute group, "The Legacy Girls." Southwest Airlines and the United Service Organization (USO) provided coffee and breakfast for the veterans before they boarded their flight.

 

While in the nation's capital, the veterans had the opportunity to experience a day of remembrance for many who have waited more than 60 years to see the WWII Memorial. In addition to visiting the WWII Memorial, the veterans visited the Iwo Jima, Lincoln, Korean War and Vietnam War Memorials.

 

More than 1,500 family, friends and supporters were expected to welcome the veterans when they return to Midway tonight. In addition, dozens of active duty military personnel, the USO of Illinois and Chicago Police and Fire Department Pipes and Drums Corps will participate in the festivities.

 

Honor Flight Chicago, in partnership with Southwest Airlines and the United Services Organization (USO), hosts the all-expenses paid trips for the Chicago-area veterans.

 

The next Honor Flight Chicago season will begin in April 2012.

 

For more information, please visit www.honorflightchicago.org.