World War II vet, 101, commissions grandson during Air Force Academy graduation
World War II veteran Walter Kloc, 101, flew from Amherst, New York to commission his grandson, Joseph, during the U.S. Air Force Academy’s class of 2019 graduation ceremony in Colorado Springs. (US Air Force Academy)
By Frank Miles
All in the family.
“I’m so excited for him,” Joseph’s father, William Kloc, told WGRZ earlier in the week. “He’s fulfilling his dream and he was so excited that his grandfather, a World War II Air Force bombardier pilot, could come and commission him.”
The Air Force posted the moment on social media.
This is what it’s all about.
Today, Joseph Kloc was commissioned by his grandfather Walter Kloc. The 101-year-old WWII veteran traveled all the way from New York for this moment. Walter received a standing ovation, and everyone in the room was gifted with a memory they’ll never forget.
I’m a bit vague on what a ‘bombardier pilot’ is, but hey, enjoy the moment with three generations together for the celebration.
More of the article and pics here: New York Pix 11
Category: Air Force
Now that’s a feel good story I need. One hundred and one. I can’t imagine. He was born during World War One, think about that.
Another feelz good story. Sure the whole Family was proud to see this happen. G Pa survived the war and kept begatting till another Warrior was produced. Never knew either one of my Grandfathers, they had passed before I came along.
I may be wrong, but IIRC on some WWII Aerial Artillery, the bombardier was a trained pilot and took over flight control during the bombing run.
Too cool for words!
Absolutely awesome!
Of all the heros of the USAF, those who flew bombers over occupied Europe are head and shoulders above all others!
Those were certainly some scary missions MustangC. The Air Force converted some B-29’s to KB-50 tankers and having flown on a couple of missions in 60′, don’t mind admitting I would not have had the balls to fly bombing missions on those suckers. Nice the young officer could graduate from one of those “other academy’s” Do they get to wear their merit badges on the regular AF uniform?
What a lucky kid! May success and prosperity bless his days such that his own posterity may be so enriched.