Five World War WII veterans took to the sky once again thanks to Kenmore Air. This time their service was not required. It was being honored.

“We’re honored and humbled by the commitment and sacrifice our service men and women make. Being able to recognize them, even in a small way such as this, is a privilege,” Kenmore Air president Todd Banks said.

Meeting at the Will Rogers–Wiley Post Memorial Seaplane Base, retired Lt. Col. Maury Marler, retired Sgt. Larry Wildermuth, retired Corp. Hal Fones, retired LTJG Bill Cruikshank and retired First Lt. Fred Charles joined Kenmore Air pilot, Joseph Leatherman aboard de Havilland Beaver N72355.

Prior to the flight, the men joked with Leatherman about wanting to take the stick.

“I’d rather be sitting there,” Marler said, nodding to the pilot’s chair as he climbed into the co-pilot seat.

Taking off to the north, Leatherman flew the men over downtown Seattle, Elliot Bay and CenturyLink Field. He took them past the Seahawks training facility, several of their old neighborhoods and the University of Washington campus. And then, Leatherman brought them back, landing on the south end of Lake Washington.

“Thank you. The whole flight was incredible. It’s been years since I saw Seattle from the sky,” Charles said.