WWII Vets to Get Day of Honor Tuesday

These days, it’s not uncommon for veterans returning home from their service to be greeted with parades and parties.

But it is a stark contrast to the welcome World War II veterans received on their return.

“They got a train ticket at the time and were told to go home and rebuild America,” said Montgomery resident Herschel Luckinbill, a Vietnam veteran and ambassador for Honor Flight Chicago.

A Day of Honor celebration is planned for the area’s World War II vets Tuesday, sponsored by Comcast and Linda Chapa Lavia's office.

Veterans will meet at 7:45 a.m. at in Montgomery at Route 30 and Douglas Road and be escorted to East Aurora High School. Weather-permitting, they will be treated to a fly-by of WWII planes, followed by a one-hour program for students and veterans, which will include a viewing of Comcast’s award-winning documentary, ‘Day of Honor,’ and speakers such as veterans, Chapa LaVia, and representatives from Comcast.

Tuesday's event will also include an escort from the Naperville-based Operation Welcome You Home, whose mission is to provide respectful, thoughtful, uplifting and joyous homecomings for all of our returning warriors and their families, according to the organization's website.

Founder Donna Morsovillo said it’s important to remember those who have served the country.

“Especially World War II and Vietnam veterans — they never had ‘welcome homes,’” she said.

While often veterans try to remain humble during celebrations honoring them, “You can see their smile and their tears knowing they’re supported,” Morsovillo said.

Luckinbill said 258 veterans from the Montgomery area have been able to take an Honor Flight, which sends World War II veterans on a one-day trip to visit the memorial honoring those who served.

“We’re trying to make sure every World War II veteran can see the memorial before they go,” he said.

For more information about Tuesday’s event, call Luckinbill at 630-801-9591. The East Aurora School District will broadcast the event live online. For more information, check out their website.