Mother and Son take a Historical Leap

As the dreary clouds hovered  over the Windy City at day break gloom was in the air. Slowly you could see a glimmer of light and finally the brilliant blue sky broke through to support the 52^nd annual Chicago Air and Water Show. This is the largest show of its kind, which roars into Chicago’s lake front from Fullerton Parkway to Oak Street.  Hundreds of sail boats, cruise ships, catamarans and ski boats glistened on the rippling aqua blue water surrounding show center in front of Castaways Boat house.

Dropping wind streamers prior to the jump

As far as the eye could see was a colorful parade of people diving in and out of the water trying to get some relief from the sweltering heat. There are thousands of acres of lakefront and parks in Chicago, but today the Lakeshore Drive was a patchwork of air show fans. 

Gold Team SFC Berentis flying Army Strong Canopy

Things are heating up in Chicago this month and I’m not just talking about the weather. The US Army Parachute Team Golden Knights high flying maneuvers and surprise quest drops are pulling the season into a full swing.  These awing performances are the direct result of the thousands of people flocking to this great Chicago Air and Water Show Event.

The Gold Demonstration Team is headlining the two day event with two dynamic acrobatic performances each day. Today members of the team flew in an array of flags to include the State flag, POW flag, the Wounded Warrior flag and the US Army Strong flag. They conducted a cut away maneuver, a bomb burst, and hosted special quest to share the shoreline.

SSG Joe Abeln piloting Vaughn over glowing city

Vince Vaughn a native of Chicago shared the beautiful skies with his mother for an all time historical first for the Golden Knights with a mother-son tandem team.  The heartfelt bond between a mother and son are undiscribable and an experience like this that no other has shared will be a lifelong treasure.

SSG Abeln Vince SSG Coleman flying in formation

SSG Joe Abeln piloted Vaughn over the spectacular view of this majestic city and show line as thousands of fans anxiously peered skyward with continual cheers and applause. They sailed over the crowd to the shore and safely touched down to the earth with great ease. As Vaughn was removing his gloves and stepping out of his rig, his sixty one year old mother was angelically flying above his head with SFC Michael Elliot, who gently stood her on the ground before a euphoric crowd of well wishers.

Mom flying directly above her son

Vaughn said,”That this was absolutely incredible and that he was so thankful for the opportunity.” He slowly walked over to greet his mom who was totally ecstatic and gave her a big hug. She said,” I would never have dreamed of doing anything like this, but was so happy that I did.” 

Vaughn posing with Army Recruiters

 He walked up to all of the fans that were shouting out to him and shook many hands and then proceeded over to greet the media. Following a brief interview he graciously stopped and spoke to local Army Recruiters, and numerous fans reaching out just to touch him. His mom quietly followed behind him watching as he greeted people. You could tell by the look in her eyes and the little smile that her heart was full of love and pride.

Vince and Mom elated after jump