Photos and text by George Kerestes, National Park Service and Pittsburgh Native
On another beautiful fall day in Washington 100 World War II
Veterans, plus their volunteers, visit their Memorial. Although not part of the Honor Flight
Network, the Pittsburgh numbers are very impressive. The Pittsburgh group originated with Jim Hilts, of
Coraopolis, a Vietnam War veteran who retired from the Army in 1989. Beginning in
November 2006, Jim’s group of volunteers has been responsible for more than 1,000
Pittsburgh WWII coming to Washington.
Today’s group had another visit by Senator Dole—he is like the
Energizer Bunny! I modified my National
Park Service Volunteer uniform with my own “Terrible Towel” at my side. The Terrible Towel, arguably the
best-know fan symbol of any major pro sports team, seems to follow Pittsburgh
fans everywhere. Soon after the
veterans saw my Terrible Towel many of them wanted to take a picture with it and
the Memorial in the background. In
addition, there are several photos with Senator Dole and the Terrible
Towel.
The Pittsburgh group will be back on Veterans Day and I and my
wife Sara and the Terrible Towel will be there. Also expected back is Al Quaye from Arlington who organizes
the delivery of 10 to 15 wheelchairs for use on the trip. Active-duty Marines
regularly volunteer to push the veterans who use wheelchairs.
