Chicago Department of Aviation
Honor Flight Chicago Hosts 95 WWII Veterans for Visit to Memorial in Washington, D.C.
 

CHICAGO, April 25, 2012 -- Earlier today, 95 World War II veterans received a special morning send-off celebration at Midway International Airport prior to their departure for a day trip to the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C.

 

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Seaman Jeremy Lewis and Private Mae McNamara prepare for the Honor Flight departure

While in the nation's capital, the veterans will experience a day of remembrance and reminiscing for some who have waited more than 60 years to see the WWII Memorial. The veterans will also visit the Iwo Jima, Lincoln, Korean and Vietnam memorials. Honor Flight Chicago, Southwest Airlines and the United Services Organization (USO), facilitate the all-expenses-paid trips for Chicago-area veterans.

 

This morning's departure celebration included performances by the vocal trio "Legacy Girls," who pay tribute to the famous Andrew Sisters and roll-call for all branches of the Armed Services.

 

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The Legacy Girls perform at Midway

Hundreds of family, friends and supporters are expected to welcome the veterans when they return to Midway this evening. In addition, dozens of active duty military personnel; the USO of Illinois; and Chicago Police Department Pipes and Drums Corps will participate in the arrival festivities.

 

 This is Honor Flight Chicago's second flight of the 2012 season, which runs through October.

 

Honor Flight Chicago's mission is to provide WWII veterans from the Chicago region the chance to see the National World War II Memorial and to show appreciation for their service to our country.

 

For more information on Honor Flight Chicago please visit www.honorflightchicago.org.

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