On October 18 & 19, 2012, Chick Bruns and 67 other WWII Veterans were provided an ‘Honor Flight’ to visit the National WWII Memorial in Washington DC. Sponsored by Central Illinois Honor Flight who offers free flights for Veterans for the sacrifices of these brave individuals have made for their country.
 |
| View Chick’s Honor Flight Photo Album |
His sons, Chuck and John served as ‘guardians’ on the flight helping Chick and one other veteran enjoy their 2 day trip. Each day was full of activity as they visited Washington’s memorials and museums. The itinerary included a visit to:
Arlington National Cemetery to watch the changing of the guard,
U.S. Marine Memorial
American History Museum
U.S. Naval Memorial
U.S. Air Force Memorial
Smithsonian Air & Space Museum
National WWII Memorial
National Korean War Memorial
Vietnam War Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
The Illini Radio Group pledged to raise the funds needed to send a chartered jet of heroes from Willard Airport. Within two weeks, IRG had raised the necessary $55,000 but decided to keep going. In less than two months, they raised $130,000 and were able to send three flights to Washington, D.C. Chick Bruns was part of that third flight and interviewed at the Marine Memorial by Michelle Ryan of Mix 94.5
Always greeted by a cheering crowd of people anxious to shake their hands, the trip concluded with at huge reception when the flight came home where these veterans were treated to the appreciation that was missed when they returned home in back in 1945.
Hi Chick! I was so thrilled to meet you and to be a part of your Honor Flight. What an incredible, unforgettable two days! Our conversation on the radio was fantastic and I’d love to email it to you. Please have your son contact me and I’ll send it along. All my best, Michelle (Mix 94.5)