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Veterans honored all around Chicago on Friday

Published  November 12, 2016 1:45am CST
News
FOX 32 Chicago

FOX 32 NEWS - Veterans were honored at ceremonies all around Chicago Friday and like everyone else, many of them were talking about Donald Trump becoming their new Commander in Chief.

On the South Side, the Bronzeville Veterans Day Parade paid special tribute to African Americans who fought or otherwise contributed during World War One.

“During the time that, we as African Americans were not recognized and supported, the community came, they clothed the soldiers, they supported the soldiers,” said Army veteran Joyce Smith.

The parade included Junior ROTC students from several high schools, along with dozens of Corvettes, signifying "Vettes for Vets."

Veterans that FOX 32 talked with along the parade route said one of their biggest concerns these days is the high number of homeless vets.

“We got too many homeless veterans. If we could take care of them, it would be kind of good,” said Air Force veteran Eddie Clark.

An hour later, during a wreath laying ceremony at Soldier Field, Mayor Emanuel suggested that in Chicago, at least, homeless vets have received help.

“We have over two thousand veterans who used to be homeless. Now have a roof over their head in the city of Chicago. And we are well on our way to eliminating homelessness in the city of Chicago,” Emanuel said.

In the Loop, anti-war veterans honored those who have been lost in wars overseas. President-elect Donald Trump has promised to take better care of the nation's vets who supported him by two-to-one in Tuesday's election.

“If he keeps his promises, I believe it's a good thing. If he doesn't, it's going to be a big disappointment,” said Air Force veteran Ken Greene.

“I'm a Democrat all my life, but I voted for Trump. I think we need a change. And he says it like it is, you know,” Army veteran Rocky Litteriello said.

“I think he'll look after them. I think he'll do like they did here in Chicago and make things better and give them the respect that they deserve and need,” said Melinda Thompson, a Marine veteran’s widow.