Ortt, veterans go to DC for annual Warriors Flight
Provided photo: Bronze Star recipient and New York State Senator Rob Ortt joined 20 fellow veterans with a trip to Washington, D.C. on Thursday to visit memorials and lay wreaths at memorial sites.
Press Release, State Sen. Robert Ortt
State Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I,Ref-North Tonawanda) hosted 20 veterans on a flight down to Washington, D.C. to visit the various war memorials and pay respects to the men and women who have perished in service to our nation.
Veterans from WWII, the Korea War, and Vietnam War on Thursday visited several monuments including the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Vets Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
“This is one of those events that I cherish as an American and as a public official,” said Sen. Ortt, a Bronze Star recipient of Operation Enduring Freedom. “Many of these veterans haven’t had the opportunity to come down and see the memorials that have been built in their honor. Bringing these heroes to the memorials – where they can pay their respects to their fallen brothers and sisters – is something that I see as a duty of mine. Having the ability to do so is really special.”
The trip came at no cost to any of the veterans or guardian volunteers who accompanied them on the trip thanks to sponsorship and funding by Walmart. Along with visiting the war memorials, the group had the opportunity to place wreaths at the World War II and Korean War Memorials. Veterans and guardians also visited the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument.
“It is always a very emotional trip for the veterans who join us and also for myself as a veteran,” said Sen. Ortt. “Because of the sacrifices of these heroes, we are able to live in the greatest country in the world and that is something we should all be extremely grateful and thankful for.
Those interested in joining Sen. Ortt for the WNY Warriors Flight next year can call the office at 716-434-0680 and ask to be placed on the contact list.
