THE WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL AND HONOR FLIGHTS

THE WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL AND HONOR FLIGHTS


My friends Lyn Braedon-Reed and Jennifer Magerer and I decided that the
best way to spend the day was to head downtown to the WWII Memorial, the
weekend after the government shutdown.   Watching Veterans break through
barricades after flying long distances to visit their memorial this was
a beautiful sight, to see them move freely around the magnificent
monument built to honor them and their fallen brothers.   We came
knowing that there would be three Honor Flights visiting and we wanted
to be a part of that experience.

In case you are not familiar with Honor Flights they are a nonprofit
that funds flights to bring our veterans to Wash DC from all over the
country, while they are still able to travel.   This requires volunteers
to care for the veterans who need constant care, knowing that this may
be the last journey of their lives.  Many of the volunteers are from our
area and sign up to assist the veterans through their visit, on and off
the planes and the buses.     The emotions that this and other War
memorials evoke is difficult to put into words but each is hallowed
ground to be sure.   Our elder veterans walked or were pushed in
wheelchairs.....and you could see they truly felt the spirit of the
monument that payed homage to their service and sacrifice.    There was
no way to be there and not feel the sense of love and appreciation in
the air from the many thankful Americans who greeted these visitors with
enormous rounds of applause and cheers while waving American flags.
The patriotism was palpable.....the air was filled with honor and
respect for those who fought for the freedoms we hold dear today.

Before we headed downtown I was reminded to bring with me the oval black
on white stickers that say "I Served WWII" or "I Served KOREA" and what
a blessing that reminder proved to be.   It was a rather frantic
afternoon with a very threatening sky and chilly winds.   No
matter.....the weather would not deter  anyone.   Three flights arrived
in buses and as the veterans disembarked we welcomed them with open arms
and stickers. The three of us, along with Jennifer's friend Brandi,
approached each of the veterans shaking hands, sharing hugs and
conversation while I handed them the appropriate sticker(s).  Some had
served in both wars, some even three, including Vietnam...... I had
those stickers as well.   Many humbly asked if they could have more than
one  because they had served in more than one war.   Oh my gosh!!
They were so incredibly thankful for the stickers, cherishing them as if
they were extremely valuable.   So often it is the simple little things
that hold so much meaning.

By now you know me......I am all about Patriotism and not good at
holding back tears when it comes to those who have served our country,
past or present.   I cannot sing the Star Spangled Banner without tears
flowing.   This was by far one of the most exceptional events I can
remember.   On Veterans Day, Monday November 11, there are Honor Flights
coming in.  What better day to be there to greet them once again with
our hugs and stickers and flags.   We will repeat this experience as
often as our schedules allow.   There are never enough ways to honor our
war veterans......especially the 'greatest generation.'    This is the
least we can do and I can't wait to be there again and again.