Long-time Chatham Businessman and Veteran Receives Honors
Long-time Chatham Businessman and Veteran Receives Honors
A Chicago (Chatham) Local Hero, Veteran Joseph Caldwell Sr., was invited to fly to our country's Capital on Wednesday, August 24th, 2022. The Honor Flight Network of independent national Hubs works collectively to celebrate veterans who served in WWII, Vietnam, and the Korean War. Previously scheduled flights had been postponed two years due to Covid.
One hundred and eleven veterans flew on this all-day junket. Servicemen and women boarded a charter flight at Midway Airport at 4 AM, heading to Washington, DC. Before taking off, they attended a private reception at the USO at Midway airport. Once they arrived, they visited memorials and historical sights. Each honoree received three meals and snacks. Wheelchairs were provided if needed. They traveled about town in a luxury bus liner. They indeed received VIP treatment! When Joseph Caldwell received an honorable discharge more than 50 years ago, many Black servicemen were not given a proper honor due to all the political melee surrounding that war and racial indifference.
The plane touched down at Midway just after 8 PM. Upon return, soldiers were greeted with a festive parade of family members, passengers, airline employees, a band, bagpipers, and a singer! It was a very emotional welcome.
Caldwell's daughter Veta stated, "My siblings and I are elated that our father was given this honor and able to receive his flowers while he can still smell them." Caldwell is 90 years young and going strong.
After working as a Supply Technician while serving in the Air Force, he became a master tailor and began opening Tailor-rite Cleaners, on Chicago’s Southside. Joseph Caldwell still works at the business that opened its doors in 1956.
Joseph Caldwell Sr., after years of servicing families in the Black community, the Honor flight was happy to serve you!
Thank you for your service!
Written by Jill Ross
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