Public invited to meet World War II vets

For the fourth consecutive year, members of the World War II 86th Fighter-Bomber Group Association will be gathering next week for their annual reunion on Okaloosa Island.

In addition to catching up with friends and family members, the veterans will enjoy a visit with members of Eglin Air Force Base’s 86th Fighter Squadron during their stay in the area.

The public is invited to a special "meet and greet" with the veterans on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Island Palm hospitality room at the Four Points by Sheraton Resort located at 1325 Miracle Strip Parkway S.E.

“We are hoping that the public, and especially local World War II vets, will come out for this event,” said organizer Dallas Lowe. “The vets love talking to people and sharing their stories.”

The 86th Group entered combat in North Africa in July 1943, moving to bases in Sicily, Italy, Corsica, France and Germany and flying the A-36, P-40 and P-47, Lowe said. They received two Presidential Unit Citations, and their record of destroyed enemy equipment and personnel casualties is among the highest of American units.

Lowe said he’s afraid that this may be the last year the group will be able to gather in Northwest Florida. Four of the members passed away earlier this year.

“Travel and illness are becoming a large factor,” he said. “I hope people will take this opportunity to come out and visit with our heroes.”