Jul 23, 2025, 7:47 PM
Jul 23, 2025, 7:47 PM

Veterans honor their legacy on special flight to WWII museum

Highlights
  • A group of eleven Chicago-area World War II veterans flew to New Orleans for a special visit to a museum honoring their service.
  • The veterans received a warm sendoff at O'Hare International Airport, complete with a parade featuring bagpipers.
  • The trip allowed veterans to reconnect with peers and share their experiences, highlighting the ongoing celebration of their contributions.
Story

Recently, a group of veterans from the Chicago area boarded a special flight to New Orleans organized for them to visit the National WWII Museum. This trip took place on a Wednesday, dramatically highlighted by a warm sendoff at O'Hare International Airport, where a parade with bagpipers ignited enthusiasm among travelers. The gathering marked a significant occasion as eleven veterans, including 99-year-old John Rickerd, united at the departure gate to embark on this journey. Rickerd, having enlisted as a U.S. Marine at 17, expressed nostalgic feelings about his wartime experiences, especially reflecting on his duty in the Pacific and the valor of those who did not return home. Alongside his son, Mark, who called him a hero, Rickerd hailed this trip as a chance to celebrate the lives and sacrifices of WWII veterans. The journey was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Gary Sinise Foundation and American Airlines, who facilitated travel for these veterans free of charge. Randy Stillinger, the manager of military and veterans' initiatives for American Airlines, noted the purpose of this three-day trip and emphasized the rewarding interactions between WWII veterans and high school students accompanying them. As they prepared to visit the museum designed to honor their service, John Rickerd and others looked forward not only to experiencing the exhibits but also to forming meaningful connections with peers who shared similar journeys through the war. This exceptional initiative highlights the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made during World War II, aiming to foster camaraderie and respect among generations through commemorative efforts.

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