Highlights from our 100th flight
marc.zarefsky2022-05-29T21:45:38-05:00Last week, we celebrated our history and our future with HFC100 – a deeply moving nod to our accomplishments and a look forward to our future.
Malone Wilson: One of the First African-American Marine ‘Volunteer’ Recruits
marc.zarefsky2022-04-10T20:36:27-05:00Malone Wilson was born in Thomaston, Alabama and was principally raised by his mother, Ernestine during his younger years. Now approaching the century mark with his 100th birthday this November, Malone was the oldest of his seven siblings.
James Owen: ROTC To National Guard to Army
marc.zarefsky2022-04-14T08:58:17-05:00High school ROTC was only the beginning for Jim Owen. As an ROTC second lieutenant, Jim learned a great deal about leadership, command, and camaraderie.
Bonnie and Jack Cordaro: A Story of Love and Service
marc.zarefsky2022-04-10T20:12:54-05:00Bonnie and Jack Cordaro have a unique story. They both served their country at different times in different places. While many military spouses met through their service, Bonnie and Jack served separately and met at a social for young professionals in Chicago.
Dominick Calamino: Following in His Parents’ Footsteps, Twice
marc.zarefsky2022-04-10T20:14:51-05:00When Dominick Calamino, Jr. was attending Chicago Vocational High School in the mid-60’s, the U.S. Army was drafting young men to serve in the Vietnam War.
Bob and John Runtz: True Brothers in Arms
marc.zarefsky2022-04-09T21:55:39-05:00John and Bob Runtz are siblings from a Chicago family of five. John, born in August, 1943 and Bob born in June, 1945, instantly became members of a military family.
Earl and Darrell Bushnell: Shared Experiences for Father and Son
marc.zarefsky2022-04-09T21:37:14-05:00Earl Bushnell, age 96 and his son, Darrell, age 72 are in for an incredible ride. They will be the first father and son duo in Honor Flight Chicago’s history as part of the organization’s 100th flight to Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, April 13.
Bill Baker: Underwater Demolition and Cartography Expert
marc.zarefsky2022-04-09T21:38:13-05:00William “Bill” Baker grew up probably as far from the sea as one could in the States. Born in Minneapolis on January 5, 1940, he lived in Maple Lake just north and west of the Twin Cities, surrounded by farm country.
Elaine Ansbro: Learning to Write Backward
marc.zarefsky2022-04-09T21:08:50-05:00Throughout Elaine’s interview she talked about how much she loves airplanes and anything patriotic. As a Girl Scout, she remembers with pride marching in the 4th of July parades. Her love of airplanes plus patriotism equal the Air Force.
Dave Adams: From Fighter Pilot to Volunteer Interviewer
marc.zarefsky2022-04-10T20:37:24-05:00Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base was a hub of activity during the Vietnam War. Located in northeastern Thailand, it was one of the major centers of U.S. Air Force combat operations.