Ewalt “Walt” Shatz, a World War II hero, was en route to a memorial ceremony marking the 72nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. According to the airline, they had to reduce the number of passengers to accommodate the weight of additional fuel due to inclement weather.
Hawaii News Now – KGMB and KHNL
From Fox News:
“United agents in Los Angeles re-booked those customers, including Mr. Shatz, on the best available alternate flights on United and other airlines. We look forward to speaking with Mr. Shatz and the other affected customers.”
Shatz arrived in Honolulu just before midnight and in time for the ceremony.
Word of his Shatz’s plight traveled quickly on the Internet, and 71 people – mostly U.S. service members – organized a last-second welcoming party for him at the airport in Honolulu.
“Getting ready to put my khakis on and go greet a WWII vet (Pearl Harbor Survivor)… If you are on island and would like to come greet and honor this hero, come on out,” Navy Chief Benjiman Scott wrote in part on his Facebook page, according to the paper.
“Everybody wanted a picture with me and they were making out like I was hero, but I’m not really. It was embarrassing in a way, but I liked it. It was nice,” Shatz told WOAI News 4.
Reportedly added Chief Navy Counselor Rex Parmelee: “This is why we’re serving. We’re here to tell their story. We’re here to show our respect for them. It’s a tremendous honor and that’s why we take it so serious. Heritage is huge.”
And from Weasel Zippers comes this great photo:
Navy Chief Petty Officer’s Mess ensured there would be a welcome party greeting Mr. Shatz when he finally arrived around midnight. Here they are, pictured with him:
