Darien Resident, World War II Vet Takes Honor Flight to D.C.

Bob Delany was one of more than 90 World War II veterans from the Chicago area to board a plane Wednesday bound for Washington, D.C.

The Darien resident was participating in an Honor Flight, which sends World War II veterans on a one-day trip to visit the memorial honoring those who served.

“It’s quite a privilege,” Delany said of the excursion. “I’m elated.”

The day was made possible by Honor Flight Chicago, a nonprofit organization which organizes trips so veterans can go to Washington, participate in ceremonies and see the nation's capital. A volunteer guardian leads the veterans around the city to see all the monuments and other spots, such as Arlington National Cemetery.

“The purpose is to honor and thank WWII veterans for their service with a day of honor, remembrance and a celebration,” said Shari Gillespie, a Darien resident and spokeswoman for Honor Flight Chicago.

Delany served in World War II from 1943 to 1946 aboard the USS McLanahan, an experience he called “tremendous.”

But it wasn’t without its peril. Once while at sea, Delany said the ship was attacked by enemy aircraft.

“A couple of guys got killed,” he said.

He and his family moved to Darien 40 years ago from Chicago.

"For the good schools mainly," Delany said.

Wednesday’s visit to Washington, D.C., allowed him to visit the World War II Memorial for the first time. He was most looking forward to seeing the monument. The retired electrician had no qualms about taking the flight, which left from Midway Airport.

“Flying don’t bother me,” he said.

He was especially excited to take the trip with two of his longtime friends, also World War II veterans.

The day ended with a welcome home celebration at Midway Airport featuring active duty military personnel, a Color Guard, the Illinois USO, Midway Fire Department Bagpipers, and hundreds of friends, family and volunteers.

Mary Pettinato, president of the nonprofit Chicago Honor Flight, said there are 1,500 World War II veterans now waiting for their day of honor. Donations are needed to help make the trips, about $500 per veteran, possible.

“Veterans describe it as the second best day of their life—second only to marrying their wife,” Pettinato said. “It’s really neat and a lot of fun.”

For more information, visit www.honorflightchicago.org or call (773) 227-8387.