On September 26 Honor Flight- Mission 44 left Rochester with a full compliment of veterans including 29 who had served during WWII. Among them was Anthony “Tony” Zamiara who had lived for many years at 5162 Ridge Road and later downsized to a home at 1909 North Union Street. Due to health issues Tony now resides at Hamilton Manor where his wife, Janet, also lived until her death earlier this year.
When asked about his experience on the trip to Washington, D.C. Tony said, “It was amazing, really special and rewarding.” As usual, each Veteran received accompaniment by an escort, which for him was his son Tony Jr.
Tony spent his service time in the Army from 1942-1945. His unit assisted the Coast Guard in unloading supplies delivered to Guadalcanal. On January 29, 1945 while being unloaded, the Serpens, a Coast Guard ammunition supply ship, exploded, killing the entire crew of 250 and also 20 of the men who were part of Tony’s Army Company. A special memorial for the Serpens was erected and can be visited in Arlington National Cemetery.
Tony and his son were equally surprised and appreciative of the many individuals and groups who lend their assistance to these visits. They include Scout Troops, active military units, motorcycle escort groups, church groups and citizens in general.
One memorable event was the greeting they received from former Senator Robert Dole who makes it his mission to greet every Honor Flight group at the WWII Memorial. The usual itinerary for groups include a visit to all of the various monuments as well as Arlington National Cemetery.
The fact that all expenses for the veterans were paid surprised Tony who explained that, “I couldn’t spend a dime for anything”.
While the visit to Washington was more than expected, the best had yet to come when upon arrival back at the Rochester airport where they received greetings by hundreds of people again representing a variety of organizations and groups showing their appreciation for the services and sacrifices the veterans made. As Tony Jr. expressed, “There was hardly a dry eye in the group” when they entered the airport reception hall.
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