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Press Release - Chicago Airport System
For Immediate Release:
September 2, 2004
Contact Information:
Mayor’s Press Office - (312) 744-3334
Annette Martinez - (773) 686-3700
DALEY, VETERANS DEDICATE WWII BOMBER AT MIDWAY AIRPORT
Mayor Richard M. Daley today joined veterans of the Battle of Midway in dedicating an SBD Dauntless Dive-Bomber, which will be on permanent display in Concourse A of Midway International Airport.
The airplane is the same type that was flown by U.S. Naval aviators in the Battle of Midway, which took place June 4-7, 1942, and is generally considered the turning point of World War II in the Pacific. In honor of the battle, the City Council changed the name of Municipal Airport to Midway Airport in 1949.
"This airplane is much more than a museum piece or a historical curiosity," Daley said. "It’s a symbol of American values, a tribute to the courage and skill of our armed forces, and a reminder of just how much we owe to the men and women who made up what has rightly been called ‘the greatest generation’."
Daley was joined at the ceremony by Captain Charles E. Ellis of the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Fla.; Joseph Janotta, chairman of the committee that raised money to restore the airplane; and several veterans of the Battle of Midway.
"As we look back at the victory at Midway, we can see that it demonstrated the strengths that have served America so well for so many years: courage, technical and organizational skills, perseverance and teamwork," Daley said. "And let’s not forget another important attribute: intelligence. Thanks to our superior Naval intelligence, we had advance knowledge of the Japanese plans - and that became the key to victory."
He added, "As travelers pass by this remarkable airplane, I hope they’ll pause for a moment to reflect on our nation’s values and on the courageous men and women who defend them."
"As a Military veteran, I have a personal connection to what this exhibit represents. I know first hand the sacrifice our military servicemen and women make to protect our freedom and I am proud to have this exhibit displayed at our airport," said Aviation Commissioner John A. Roberson.
The bomber on display was recovered from Lake Michigan in 1991, 47 years after it had crashed during training exercises. Some 15,000 Naval aviators were trained in the Chicago area during the war.
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