The Homecoming
When we returned to Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, uniformed military personnel and a drum & bagpipe band greeted us in the gate area. As we approached the security checkpoint, we heard the enthusiastic crowd, along with a brass band playing patriotic songs.
Then we were in the midst of the "welcome home" parade. Wow! The concourse was lined with thousands of people holding signs and waving flags. Veterans continuously received handshakes and thank-you's along the route. Two young ladies in World War II-era dresses and hairstyles came forward to greet us. Someone from the Honor Flight organization gave Sam a full-color souvenir book about the WWII Memorial. People handed us U.S. flags. One youngster even gave Sam a candy bar.
The parade route stretched to the end of the concourse, where military cadets and a lineup of flags made for a beautiful finish.
My husband, Tom Rewolinski, caught our arrival on video. Long before, he'd staked out a place along the route to ensure a good shot. You'll see Dad and me at about 4:18 into the video.
Then we were in the midst of the "welcome home" parade. Wow! The concourse was lined with thousands of people holding signs and waving flags. Veterans continuously received handshakes and thank-you's along the route. Two young ladies in World War II-era dresses and hairstyles came forward to greet us. Someone from the Honor Flight organization gave Sam a full-color souvenir book about the WWII Memorial. People handed us U.S. flags. One youngster even gave Sam a candy bar.
The parade route stretched to the end of the concourse, where military cadets and a lineup of flags made for a beautiful finish.
My husband, Tom Rewolinski, caught our arrival on video. Long before, he'd staked out a place along the route to ensure a good shot. You'll see Dad and me at about 4:18 into the video.
