Malone 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.
High 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 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.
When 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.
John 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 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.
William “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.
Throughout 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.
Udorn 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.
Corporal Tom Wysocki knew from a young age he wanted to serve his country, inspired in part by John Wayne.
Boot Camp at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas was Roy’s initial introduction to the military.
Joe was born and raised on Chicago’s southwest side and attended St. Rita High School, where he went on a basketball scholarship.
During high school, Howard was a member of Junior ROTC. Thus, he learned basic military skills including marching and handling a rifle.
Bob attended the University of Illinois for two semesters in 1961 but came home when it became clear he wasn’t ready for college.
Life didn’t go the way 16-year-old Margaret Thomas would have liked it to go. Being the middle one of five sisters was always a challenge.
Before college, Bob Sussman had lived all over the country, but never in one place longer than a year and a half.
David Grauer feels bad that he never saw combat in World War II. He is also very glad he never had to kill anybody.
John “Rizz” Lapo’s toughness, acquired on the streets of Chicago, served him well in the jungles of Vietnam.
Joseph ‘Jake’ Mata wanted to be a Marine. He quit high school at the age of 17 to enlist in the Marine Corps.
William Meloy is 74 years young and grew up in Oak Lawn, Illinois. He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 1968.