On May 10, 2016, I was one of 75 veterans chosen to go on the Honor Flight of the Ozarks out of Springfield. My granddaughter, Kelly Goins, went with me as my guardian. We arrived at the Springfield-Branson airport at 4 a.m. to prepare for my first flight in 46 years. There were 75 veterans and guardians along with other volunteers flying to Washington, D.C.
The flight left at 6 a.m. and arrived at Dulles Airport at 7:50 a.m. Upon arriving we were greeted by many people thanking us for our service. We then loaded into three charter buses, with police escorts, and headed off to see the WWII Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Monument, Air Force Memorial and Iwo Jima. Our last stop of the day was at Arlington National Cemetery to see the Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
We then headed back to Dulles Airport to prepare for the flight home. To my surprise we had mail call before returning home. I received many letters from friends and family thanking me for my service. We arrived at 10 p.m. in Springfield where we were greeted by many volunteers, family and friends. It was a very long day, but definitely worth every minute. I was in Vietnam from 1968 — 1969.
I thank everyone who sent cards and letters. It was greatly appreciated.