WASHINGTON, D.C. – 76 veterans from the U.P. made their way to our nation’s capital for an Honor Flight. Veterans got the chance to visit monuments and memorials dedicated to service members like them. We followed veterans during their tour.
“I was in Vietnam 1966- 1967 and then I got out of the service in 1968,” said Army veteran Rodney Runion.
Runion is one of the 76 veterans from the Michigan Upper Peninsula Honor Flight.
“This [trip] is very important to me because I’ve been trying for six years to come down here and I finally got it,” said Runion.
For many, it’s their first-time visiting Washington D.C.
“The trip was great, this is unbelievable,” said Army veteran Forrest Kivisto.
Two veterans served in the Korean war. The other 74 served in Vietnam. Most of them were eager to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, searching for the names of the people they knew on the wall.
“Going to the Vietnam Memorial I had a high school friend who didn’t make it,” said Kivisto. “His name was Jack W. Grendall.”
They’re also taking in the moments at these sites to reflect and remember the war.
“It means a lot,” said Marine veteran Zeke Bouche. “We’re looking for people with their last names but that was a long time ago but it’s very impressive. These guys that were in-country getting shot at everyday, it means a lot to me.”
“Awe and humility just looking at all these people who gave their lives for service for our country for freedom,” said Air Force veteran Jim King. “It’s just very humbling.”
Honor Flight organizers said this trip is to recognize their service to our country. In an unplanned moment, strangers from other states visiting the national mall took the time to applaud and thank these veterans. Honor Flight organizers said this trip is an emotional experience for some of our nation’s bravest.
“I’m overwhelmed with people and stuff what they’re doing for us,” said Runion.
