NY veterans to record oral histories at National WWII Museum

QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Military veterans from New York shipped out on Wednesday from John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens.

The veterans served in World War II and are visiting the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. 

The Gary Sinise Foundation has sponsored the trips since 2015. The veterans will record their own oral histories at the National World War II Museum during the three-day visit.

American Airlines staff and gate crews held a ceremonial send-off at the gate. 

Gabe Grenci, 97, lives on Long Island and is active with the American Legion in Babylon. 

"I'm proud of that. Eighty years at the same post. We see the veterans at the hospitals from all the wars," Grenci said.

After trying unsuccessfully to enlist at 17 years old, he was drafted and served in the Mediterranean in the U.S. Army. He has been married 62 years and has four children and 11 grandchildren. His son accompanied him on the trip. 

Andi Mandell is making the journey again with the foundation.

“Caregivers say people tell stories they never heard before. They open up when they are around other people who shared the experiences,” Mandell said.

Local students are also playing a part in the program. Seaford High School Principal Nicole Schnabel said 20 students are traveling with the veterans and will learn from them.