The Inaugural Southeast Missouri Honor Flight brought together more than 20 veterans for a memorable journey to Washington, D.C., honoring their service and sacrifices.
Arriving to a warm welcome at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Saturday, October 12, the veterans spent their first day reflecting at iconic memorials, including the World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Korean War Memorial.
For U.S. Marine Robert Trower, who was wounded in Vietnam, the experience stirred deep emotions. You relive a lot of things, he said, with his guardian Rae Lynn Munoz supporting him through the trip.
Munoz highlighted the stark difference in how Vietnam veterans were treated, noting that they were not given the same welcome home as soldiers from other conflicts.
Sunday’s schedule was packed, including visits to Arlington National Cemetery for the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and memorials dedicated to various branches of the military, such as the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and Vietnam Memorial.
Veterans like Ralph Pike of the U.S. Army expressed the honor of being part of the trip, while U.S. Marine Leslie Adams said the farewell reception, where veterans received a certificate and standing ovation, was an unexpected but touching tribute. For many, this was more than just a trip—it was the long-overdue recognition they deserved.