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From Mob Ties to Medal of Honor: The O’Hare LegacyUS Navy/Office Of War Information/National ArchivesEBy Sonny Melendrezdward “Butch” O’Hare was a World War II naval aviator whose heroism became legend. On February 20,1942, Butch single-handedly intercepted a formation of Japanese bombers heading toward the aircraft carrier USS Lexington. With limited ammunition, he shot down five enemy planes in just a few minutes, saving countless lives. He became the U.S. Navy’s first flying ace and the first naval aviator to receive the Medal of Honor in World War II.But behind Butch’s valor lies the complicated story of his father—Edward J. “Easy Eddie” O’Hare. A successful lawyer, Easy Eddie worked closely with notorious mobster Al Capone, living in luxury thanks to his criminal connections. Yet over time, guilt began to outweigh wealth.Despite his ties to Capone and organized crime, he was deeply devoted to his son. He wanted Butch to have opportunities for a better life—free from the shadows of the underworld. Eddie provided his son with a good education, sending him to Western Military Academy, a prestigious prep school in Illinois, and later supporting his enrollment at the United States Naval Academy.While Butch was still in his teens, Eddie broke ranks with the mob, providing federal authorities the evidence needed to convict Capone of tax evasion.Eddie’s decision came at a steep cost.In an exciting move for the food service industry, Applebee’s and IHOP are joining forces to create a new dining experience for guests that also represents a compelling opportunity for those in the restaurant industry.I Spy With My Little Eye... ContestPBy Sally Kaloslease look carefully on each and every page, scanning up and down, left and right, from front toback, and then back to front. Don’t give up! If you can find the watermelon farmer, you’ll be entered into a drawing to win $50! Just email the page number and location where you spotted the watermelon farmerto contest@stoneoakhighlights.com. The deadline is August 9, 2025.We hope you’ll have fun with our versionof a mini-scavenger hunt within our pages. Good luck!August 2025www.stoneoakhighlights.com5In 1939, just before Capone’s release from prison, he was murdered in a gangland- style assassination on a Chicago street. It’s widely believed his cooperation sealed his fate.But his sacrifice wasn’t in vain.Just a few years later, Butch O’Hare’s actions in the Pacific brought immense honor to the family name. Tragically, he was killed in action during a nighttime mission in 1943. In recognition of his heroism, Chicago renamed Orchard Field to O’Hare International Airport in 1949.Today, millions pass through O’Hare without knowing the story behind the name—a story of a father’s redemption and a son’s ultimate sacrifice. It’s a reminder that a legacy can be rewritten, that courage can emerge from complicated beginnings, and that doing what’s right isn’t always easy— but always worth it.Sometimes, redemption begins with a single choice—and ends with a hero.Sonny Melendrezis an award-winningmotivational speaker,Hall of Fame radio/TV host and author,based in San Antonio.For more of his enthusiastic brand of inspiration and speaking information, visit www.SonnyMelendrez.com and listen to his podcast.203 N Loop 1604San Antonio, TX78232Congratulations to our July I Spy winner Laura Costello