The article was a reminder for me of my four McKitrick cousins and their participation in World War II [Another honor roll for veterans, Ken Trainor, Nov. 3].
Tom McKitrick was a mountain ski trooper. He was killed in Italy returning from a volunteer patrol and probably by friendly fire. I remember well the gold star in the window at 215 S. Scoville.
Joe McKitrick, the eldest brother, was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge. Joe survived and returned to raise a family of two girls and three boys as a chemistry teacher in St. Louis.
John McKitrick served in the Navy during the Korea conflict and returned to raise a family of two girls and two boys in Park Ridge.
Jim McKitrick, the youngest, entered the priesthood from St. Edmond’s Parish and is now retired and serves in St. Benedict’s Parish in Fontana, Wis.
My husband of 57 years, Bill, served in the Navy during the invasion of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. His ship, the U.S.S. Hinsdale, was severely damaged by a kamikaze at Okinawa and nearly capsized.
The article reminded me of many happy and sad memories of the war years, and the esteem I had for my four McKitrick cousins, my Aunt Louise and Uncle Joe. They were and are my heroes, along with my husband Bill and so many friends and classmates who served so well.
Patricia McNichols
Oak Park
