Hundreds Greet 50 Veterans Returning Home To LI

LONG ISLAND, NY - Over 100 greeters were on-hand to welcome back 50 World War II and Korean War veterans and their “guardians” at Long Island MacArthur Airport

The honorary passengers were returning home from a Washington, D.C. trip that included visits to the World War II and Korean War memorials.

Among those welcoming the veterans were PSEG Long Island employee Denise Echevarrio and her husband Philip of Great River, whose “Uncle John” was among the heroes on the incoming flight.

John Rodriguez is a 90-year-old Korean War veteran from Kings Park.

“Being able to participate in the Long Island Honor Flight was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget,” Rodriguez said. “Traveling with my son Stevie and other Korean War veterans rekindled a bond and spirit from over 64 years ago. Ending with a Heroes’ Reception upon our return capped a truly amazing day.”

As the Honor Flight passengers disembarked, the group consisting of bagpipers, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, friends and family, and a contingency from PSEG Long Island’s Veterans Employee Business Resource Group cheered, waved flags and lifted “welcome home” signs to greet the honorees.

Echevarrio has been participating in the welcome home events since PSEG Long Island became involved, and said this one was extra special for her.

“As the wife of a retired Navy commander and Operation Enduring Freedom veteran, it was a pleasure to secure a seat for my Uncle John on the recent Honor Flight,” she said. “Seeing his face and his smile, and being able to hug him upon his return at the Heroes Reception is a memory that I will never forget.”

Honor Flight Long Island trips take place twice a year in the spring and fall at Long Island MacArthur Airport.

Image via PSEG