The clouds did not damper the spirit of Selfridge Air Military Museum’s Salute to Veterans and 80th Anniversary of the Allied Victory in World War II.

The two-day event had guests celebrating the historical event and listening to stories from the veterans who contributed to it.

Among those honored during Saturday’s tribute was Lt. Edward Latozas, a U.S. Navy pilot who flew a Vought F1G Corsair fighter plane like the one at the museum and Frank Brown, a U.S. Navy seaman who served on a boat that took part in the invasion of Normandy on D-Day.

“It was fantastic,” said Ed Kaminski, director of special events for the museum. “The outpouring of love for these two veterans was heartwarming.”

Besides the field of vintage planes and military vehicles restored by the dedicated volunteers at the museum, guests were given the opportunity to see three cars related to WWII and action in the Pacific and European theater. This included the staff cars used for Generals Dwight Eisenhower and Douglas MacArthur and a Buick purchased by a young pilot who was killed in action, but not before he managed to shoot down several enemy planes during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

During the event Steve Mrozek, who is the museum director, also presented a certificate of appreciation to Marine Wing Support Squadron 471, Detachment B for their continued support saying the squadron’s efforts in maintaining and repairing the grounds of the museum’s air park are significant and greatly appreciated.

“We did not have the best weather but still had an excellent turnout,” said Bob Carden, a volunteer at the museum.

Selfridge Military Air Museum sits on the grounds of Selfridge Air National Guard base in Harrison Township.

Visitors of all ages, from the veterans who flew the planes on display to students who aspire to do the same are sure to be enriched by their experience. The remarkable 106-year-history of the base and the museum’s collection of military aircraft, artifacts and interactive activities provide a wonderful background to its educational programming.

Those looking to visit the museum are urged to visit the museum’s website at least a week in advance for additional details such as admission costs and assistance for base access.

For more information visit selfridgeairmuseum.org