A dream of flight and appreciation for our freedom – Williamsport Sun-Gazette

Today we send a Sun-Gazette shout-out to John Cerquozzi of the citys Newberry neighborhood.

At age 94, Cerquozzi, a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, was treated this week to a flight aboard a 1940 Boeing Stearman airplane.

It was a trip back in time, provided by a Carson City, Nevada, organization called DreamFlights, and a moment of sheer joy and happiness for Cerquozzi.

We were delighted by photos of him giving a thumbs up from the plane, the biggest smile spreading across his face as the plane prepared to take off.

This type of experience happens every so often, and its special every single time. Organizations that maintain vintage planes and take them around the country enrich those with whom they come in contact, from aging military veterans to those interested in history.

The Stearman has an important role in military history. It was considered the quintessential primary trainer for American aviators in WWII.

With the 80th anniversary of the start of Americas involvement in that war later this year, DreamFlights is taking up WWII veterans this month and next in what the organization is calling Operation September Freedom.

Ahhh, freedom. And September.

These two words remind us of another quickly approaching anniversary 20 years since Sept. 11, 2001. On that day, we realized how easily threatened our freedom is.

That had to be the same feeling people had on Dec. 7, 1941, when Pearl Harbor was attacked.

After Pearl Harbor, just as after the terror attacks 20 years ago, we vowed to never forget.

The truth is, our freedom is fragile. We need to respect those who fought to secure this freedom by handling this most cherished of gifts with care and not taking it for granted.

Today, we thank John Cerquozzi for his military service. John, we appreciate your contributions and are thrilled that you had such a wonderful experience with your DreamFlight this week.

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

Link:

A dream of flight and appreciation for our freedom - Williamsport Sun-Gazette