Quigley Welcomes Honor Flight Chicago to World War II Memorial

U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL) welcomed 90 World War II veterans from Illinois to the World War II Memorial to commemorate and celebrate their military service.

The group visited with the organization Honor Flight Chicago and was allowed in to the memorial after the National Park Service revised its policies under the current government shutdown.

“Our veterans bravely put themselves in harm’s way for our country, and we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never full by repaid,” Quigley said. “These veterans have every right to see their memorial and be properly honored, so I’m grateful to have been a part of this incredible experience today.”

Quigley is a frequent supporter of Honor Flight Chicago and annually skates in the Law Enforcement Classic, a charity hockey game between the Chicago Police Department and FBI to raise funds for the organization.

“Honor Flight Chicago is extremely thankful for Congressman Quigley’s long-time commitment to our local veterans,” said Mary Pettinato, Co-Founder and CEO of Honor Flight Chicago. “With Congressman Quigley’s support, we’ve been able to raise enough funds to bring 160 veterans to the World War II Memorial over the past two years, and we look forward to his continued support in the future.” 

Quigley was joined at the World War II Memorial by a bipartisan group of Illinois lawmakers, which included Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) and Representatives Bill Foster (D-IL) and Adam Kinzinger (R-IL). 

Honor Flight Chicago is a not-for-profit charity organization dedicated to honoring Chicago area World War II veterans by flying them, all expense paid, to Washington DC for a day of reflection at their memorial. This volunteer-based group works year round to raise the money needed to provide these veterans with this experience, and each flight is funded entirely by private donations. For more information, please visit www.honorflightchicago.org.

Editor's Note: This article was provided via press release by Rep. Quigley's office.