“The Hangar Dance is a throwback to World War II when the USO (United Service Organizations) would host dances, typically in airplane hangars, to help raise funds for the war effort. They featured some light refreshments, live entertainment and a lot of dancing,” said Raymond Hoy, public affairs specialist with the Dayton VA Medical Center, which sponsored the event.
The Dayton VA Medical Center partnered with the USO, City of Springboro, Military Order of the Purple and Heatherwoode Golf Club to honor veterans for their service and spark nostalgia for those who may have attended an original hangar dance.
“It was wonderful to see the heroes from our greatest generation enjoying each other’s company and swapping war stories. You could tell they were really having fun. Many had brought their children or grandchildren with them, and I think they had just as much fun as the veterans,” Hoy said. “They are some of the most nostalgic people you will ever meet, and almost every one of them are willing to sit down and share some of their amazing stories. We want this dance to give them another great story to tell.”
To create an authentic feel, Springboro Mayor John Agenbroad invited New York City-based The American Bombshells to provide musical entertainment for the March 25 dance.
With three-part harmony and a classic 1940s look, the singing group has performed for military veterans, active-duty military, wounded warriors and Americans across the country since 2011.
“It is such a humbling honor to be able to bring a little joy to those who have sacrificed so much,” said Ali Reeder, singer and founder of the nonprofit organization. “We have had the pleasure to hear so many personal stories that we will carry in our hearts and continue to honor by preserving their memories.”
The USO Hangar Dance is part of the Dayton VA Medical Center’s yearlong 150th anniversary celebration to recognize and pay tribute to service men and women and their families.
“Our WWII veterans are considered by many to be America’s greatest generation. Many of these veterans are approaching 100 years old. Our Korean War veterans fought in America’s ‘Forgotten War.’ We believe it is our duty to continue to show our appreciation to both of these generations of veterans, some of which fought in both wars. It’s important for us to let them know they are still not forgotten,” Hoy said.
The Dayton VA Medical Center evolved from the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers in Dayton, the nation’s largest home providing comprehensive care and rehabilitation to veterans and a forerunner to many federal social programs.
Other sesquicentennial events throughout the year will include a numerous fun runs and concerts, five warrior hikes totaling 150 kilometers on area trails, a Patriot Freedom Festival in May, a diversity fair in August, a time capsule ceremony in October, and a Christmas Eve service in December.
For more information about the 150th anniversary celebration, go online to www.daytonva150.com/events.
Contact this contributing writer at lisa.knodel@gmail.com.
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