As they embark on a journey to France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the invasion of Normandy, three World War II veterans received a special honor at O’Hare Airport. Army Corporal John Hodges, Army Private First Class Sydney Levit, and Navy Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class Tony Malin were given a memorable send-off as they passed through the tunnel at the airport. This experience was vastly different from their departure to battle 80 years ago.
The veterans, now aged 100, 99 and 101 respectively, each served in different parts of the war. Corporal Hodges fought in the South Pacific during the Army’s Luzon campaign while Private Levit was a paratrooper in the 17th Airborne Division and participated in the Battle of the Bulge. Pharmacist’s Mate Malin served on a Landing Ship Tank and took part in the invasion of Normandy.
As they boarded their flight to Paris, they were accompanied by a crew of United Airlines comprising solely of veterans. Levit expressed his wish for a greater appreciation for the country, emphasizing the sacrifices made by veterans. The heroes will partake in two days of activities to commemorate D-Day, along with their fellow veterans from the Greatest Generation.
The day was filled with emotions and reflections for the veterans as they marveled at the opportunity to return to France after 80 years. Levit expressed his disbelief at being able to visit the country again and reflected on
