Honor Flight Chicago Grand Marshal Of South Side Irish Parade

CHICAGO — Honor Flight Chicago, an organization that honors senior war veterans with a one-of-a-kind, all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., will serve as the Grand Marshal of the 2019 South Side Irish Parade and parade organizers made the announcement at a fitting locale on Thursday.

Dozens gathered in the terminal at Chicago Midway International Airport, where many of the honor flights embark. Included in the group were World War II veterans Norman Lasman, Bill Byrnes and John Ullinskey, all who have been on the Honor Flight. Scroll through the photos at the top of the article for more scenes from the announcement.

“We are thrilled to be selected as the 2019 South Side Irish Parade Grand Marshal,” said John Ptak, Honor Flight Chicago Board President. “Leading the parade down Western Avenue is just another way for us to thank our veterans for their service and sacrifice and also recognize our many volunteers that make each flight possible.”

Honor Flight will be joined by parade honoree Choose Kind in leading off the event set for Sunday, March 17 along Western Avenue in Beverly/Morgan Park.

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Choose Kind is an organization dedicated to promoting kindness and raising awareness about Apert syndrome. Kerry Lynch, a winner of Little Company of Mary's Humanitarian Award, has been active in raising awareness about Apert syndrome. It's a rare genetic disorder that affects the proper development of the skull, hands and feet. Kerry's daughter, Mary Cate, was born with Apert syndrome.

“The South Side Irish Parade has always been a big part of our lives and our entire family is excited to be recognized by the parade committee,” Kerry Lynch said. “This is such a tight-knit community that has supported us from the very beginning and we look forward to spreading our message, always choose kindness.”

Kerry and Mary Cate have traveled to 125 schools in Chicago teaching students what it's like to look different. During these trips, thousands of students have pledged to help Choose Kind.

“The parade committee is excited to highlight these organizations,” Greg Kovak, co-chair of the South Side Irish Parade Committee, said. “The entire focus of the South Side Irish Parade is on family, community and Irish heritage and we could not think of two more deserving organizations to represent this year’s parade.”

Photos by Tim Moran / Patch