It was a special night at the Caldwell Night Rodeo Friday as service men and women were honored during ‘Patriot Night.’
For Warren Widdison, the night was special for many reasons.
Widdison, a World War II veteran, began serving his country at the age of 19. On Friday, he celebrated his 90th birthday by flying in a B-17, just like the one he flew during the war.
During Friday night’s festivities, one of the last B-17s in use, the “Aluminum Overcast,” flew over the rodeo grounds to celebrate Patriot Night.
“Nothing sounds like the B-17 motors when they are running, so it’s wonderful,” Widdison said.
“There was over 12,000 built in the war, and there are only 11 remaining in flying condition,” Navin said. “Of those eleven, only five fly regularly.”
“It feels good to be around it and not have somebody shooting at us,” Widdison sad. “You have a feeling of gratitude of having served your country but also gratitude that through some special way I got home alive,” Widdison said.
Making it to 90 should be enough
God Bless Patriot Mr. Widdison and God Bless America.
God bless America and my dad, a B-17 pilot
(the Screaming Eagle).
Watch the video! He’s in pretty good shape for 90!
Most hospices have a Hospice For Heroes recognition program…. The WWII men are leaving us so quickly, and our Korean vets as well. The Vietnam vets make up the bulk of our vets coming on service (don’t make me explain, you won’t be able to pull me off my soapbox). If there ever were something I asked of my fellow IOTW readers, volunteer with your local hospices for recognition ceremonies.
Trust me. You will be blessed beyond measure.