Joe B., 83, St. Clairsville, OH

Joe served in the U.S. Army for 12 years, and his wish was to travel back to Normandy, France.  

Joe became a parachutist with the 101^st Airborne and took part in Operation Overlord, the combined airborne and amphibious assault on the Normandy coastline of France during World War II.  After his discharge, Burch served as Commander of his American Legion Post, working with veterans to help them receive their benefits.  Burch has helped provide wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, beds, mattresses, anything veterans might need. 

Now 84 years old, he is known throughout his nursing home for his kindness and willingness to help others.  Volunteer Steve Tambone worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funding for this wish.  In addition, many generous organizations and individuals donated money to make this wish come true.  

Burch and his former social worker, Cecilia, traveled courtesy of Continental Airlines to Normandy, France on Veterans Day 2009.