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 “œTerrible 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.