Dear Editor,
Words fail me in expressing what a wonderful experience that I had on our Honor Flight. All of the staff were so welcoming and efficient it made for a wonderful day. You must have connections up high to have ordered such perfect weather.When I was discharged in 1968, conversations about Nam didn’t happen because you weren’t sure of the attitude of who you were speaking to, but regardless of your personal feelings, it was your duty. We were fortunate to have as our bus captain, a retired Army colonel, “Tim”. Not only was he entertaining and knowledgeable but he made the time between monuments interesting.
The monuments were so well done and beautiful, it gave you a knowledge and appreciation of all of the branches of the service that you didn’t have before. We watched the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. WOW!! The precision and control of the guard was more than inspiring. How dedicated and controlled the guards were, adding much to the solemness and respect of the ceremony.
The flights were uneventful and comfortable. A little delayed at destination because of ground crew problems. I expected a few people in the terminal but I was unprepared for the 200+ that waited an extra hour to welcome us home. Everyone was so happy and sincere, letting us know how special we were. I am 88 years old and it take a lot to impress me but this was over the top. I don’t remember when I have ever felt as happy and appreciated as I did Tuesday evening.
I will remember this experience the rest of my life. Thanks to all who participated. It was really SPECIAL.
Bill O’Brien
AC2, Navy
Greetings,
I just want to let you know how very much myself and my brothers enjoyed the Honor Flight. Everything was great and this was a day I will never forget.
I would like to give a special thanks to you and everyone who do so much to make an event like this take place. I know there is a lot of work involved to make an Honor Flight happen. Everything was so smooth - absolutely amazing.
And just a little note of interest. At the Lincoln Memorial, there was a performance by the Marine Drill Team which was very good. After the performance members of the Drill Team came over and talked to the veterans. So I asked this one Marine where he was from. He replied Cedar Rapids and then mentioned he was a Linn-Mar grad! So I told him that myself and two of my brothers were also Linn-Mar grads. We had a nice talk - and what a small world!
Thanks again,
Rod Klemp

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I suggest a view of "Going Downtown" by a USAF Capt. F-105 piot. one very brave man. The strategy of the air war in the north sucked.
Regards