102-year-old Veteran among 7 taking flight in WW2 era biplane

POPLAR GROVE, Ill. (WTVO) — A 102-year-old World War 2 veteran, along with seven other vets, took to the ski in a World War 2 era Boeing Stearman Biplane on Thursday.

Eugene Kleindl was the first to take to the sky. At 102 years old, he is the oldest of the group of veterans. He served as a medic on Utah Beach during D-Day.

“It’s been a long time, but I enjoyed the ride,” said Kleidl. “To feel the wind blowing through the cockpit there. And I enjoyed the airplane ride very much.”

Rockford World War 2 Navy Veteran Bob Brenner was itching to go for a ride. The 99-year-old said he tries to honor his fallen comrades during events like Dream Flight.

“We’re the ones that lived through all of this, too. We should give our thanks and tribute to the people that didn’t make it back,” said Brenner. “And I try to honor these veterans who passed away.”

Pilot Jeff Klosky volunteers to fly dozens of veterans each year. The Air Force veteran said it is a way to give back to fellow veterans, but said this group is especially rewarding.

“With these gentlemen and ladies who served in World War Two, it’s kind of a little extra special because, you know, the greatest generation and they they did so much for our country through World War Two,” said Klosky. “Veterans are really special and they’re not very many of them left. And so it’s quite an honor to take them up.”

If interested in Dreamflights and how you can donate, volunteer or request a flight for a veteran visit their website .

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