FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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May 8, 2015

REP. ROKITA RECOGNIZES WWII VETS IN CAPTIOL FLYOVER

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Todd Rokita, a commercial-rated pilot, flew over the nation’s capital aboard one of 56 World War II warbirds today.  Marking the 70th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (V-E) Day, the flyover served as the finale of a commemoration ceremony held at the National WWII Memorial in Washington, DC. 

“I cannot think of a better way to mark this historic day, and the countless sacrifices that were made by our men and women in uniform, than roaring down the National Mall in the very aircraft that helped secure victory over Nazi Germany.  I am honored to recognize the hundreds of WWII vets attending the ceremony, along with the thousands of others that could not make it to the event.  This truly is a special day.” 

Rep. Rokita flew aboard a TBM Avenger piloted by fellow Representative Sam Graves of Missouri, who also serves as Chairman of the House Pilot Caucus.  The Avenger was a torpedo bomber first used at the Battle of Midway, and flown in combat by former President George H.W. Bush.  The warbird led the last of the historically sequenced formations known as the “Missing Man” formation. 

The “Arsenal of Democracy: World War II Victory Capitol Flyover” is the result of months of planning. Nearly 400 WWII veterans were anticipated at the National WWII Memorial, along with thousands of additional observers.  For more information on the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover, please visit http://ww2flyover.org/. 

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