The Greatest Celebration
WWII veteran, 96, honored with flight and festivities
FORT LAUDERDALE – When Sgt. Mitchel Chockla arrived to the airport’s Gate 10, a crowd greeted him with cheers and rounds of applause.
The 96-year-old World War II veteran saluted and smiled, as more than 100 people gave him the big welcome, some raising cellphones in the air to record the special moment.
Honor Flight South Florida, an organization that recognizes military veterans, surprised Chockla on Tuesday at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, arranging a celebration days before his 97th birthday.
The group arranged the flight for him to Pennsylvania for a family reunion.
Chockla, who served almost three years in World War II, shook hands with a little girl before gazing upon American flag balloons floating high above him.
Everyone was excited to help do something for this hero, said Ryan Paton, cofounder of Honor Flight South Florida. “This might be his last flight and the best one he’ll ever take.”
To make it happen, the group worked with Spirit Airlines, the Transportation Security Administration and the Broward Sheriff ’s Office.
Chockla also was honored for Purple Heart Day, a national observation for soldiers who were wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. armed forces.
Chokla appreciated the recognition, but said he wished his parents, of Ukrainian descent, still were alive to see it.
“My mother and father should have got more recognition and a medal for having six boys in service,” he said. “I’m sure it was tough for them.”