| Watch Hill Fire Lieutenant Christopher Koretski participated in the Rhode Island Association of Fire Chief's Foundation Honor Flight Program on May 30. Honor Flight brings World War II & Korean Veterans to see their memorial and other sights in Washington DC. The one day trip is completely free to the Veteran's, this trip was sponsored by Ocean State Job Lot bringing 20 Rhode Island Men & Women who served in WWII & Korea.
Lieutenant Koretski served as a Guardian for a Naval Veteran, Mr. Nunzio Vocatura of Westerly. In addition, Misquamicut Deputy Chief Bill Davis' wife, Lucy traveled with another Veteran Mr. Joe Faitani the best friend of Mr. Vocatura. They all enjoyed the day very much! They were able to see the World War II memorial, the Iwo Jima Memorial, the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam & Korean Memorials, and several other iconic sights during their visit. They also had the opportunity to see the changing of the guard at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
During a special part of the day entitled "Mail Call" the Veterans get letters and cards from their family, friends, and neighbors to thank them for their service. The Watch Hill Fire Department was very happy to support this mission by providing Mr. Vocatura with a thank you letter and a WHFD patch in his package. Watch Hill Deputy Chief Jason Simmons, a local middle school history teacher also had his students write to the Veterans traveling on this Honor Flight.
When asked what he thought of the trip Mr. Vocatura's response was "Simply Amazing!"
Upon return from Washington DC, there is always a big homecoming at the terminal at TF Green in Warwick. For this trip Assistant Chief Scott Harold, Captain Jane Perkins, Misquamicut Fire Deputy Chief Bill Davis, the Westerly Police Honor Guard, and members of their families were standing guard to salute our home coming heroes.
It is with great pleasure that some of our own were able to be a part of this great effort and we look forward to participating in the future.
To learn more about Honor Flight or if you know of a Veteran who would like to go on a trip like this visit www.rifirechiefs.com |
