News : Local veterans, guardians prepare for April 26 Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

For years, its' been a tradition in the Elwick family. When one of Mike and Cindy's grandchildren turns 12, the Vinton couple takes them to Washington, D.C.

But this year, Cindy is taking the trip with her father, William "Jay" Bolin. She will be his guardian during the April 26 honor flight, which is provided free to honor World War II veterans. Approximately 100 veterans from eastern Iowa will see the WWII Memorial and several other landmarks during the day-long trip.

"Our grandchildren have been enthralled by the stars at the World War II Memorial," said Cindy. Each star of the 4,000 stars represents 100 U.S. soldiers, sailors and Marines who died during World War II. "Now, my father is very excited to be going."

On Thursday April 14, Cindy and her father will attend an orientation where they will prepare for the trip's logistical details.

Other Benton County veterans signed up for this trip include: Robert Allard, Urbana; Richard Claeys, Belle Plaine; Burton Davis, Vinton; James Peterson, Vinton; Milton Smith, Vinton; Dale Speckner, Shellsburg.

Guardians from Vinton who will be accompanying the veterans include Jeff Peterson, who will be with his friend, Burt Davis. Deb Rundlett is also making the trip again.

Crowds of veterans groups and others will line the street leading to the church in Hiawatha for the orientation, holding or waving flags to honor the WWII veterans.