In a heartfelt display of gratitude, ninety veterans from the Upstate region of South Carolina completed an all‑expenses‑paid trip to Washington, D.C. on September 16, courtesy of Honor Flight Upstate SC, a volunteer‑run nonprofit dedicated to honoring those who served.
Veterans of three wars honored
The delegation included 81 Vietnam War veterans, eight Korean War veterans, and one of the last remaining World War II veterans from the area. “They answered the call when our country needed them,” said Paul Howell, director of Honor Flight Upstate SC. “They stepped forward, leaving behind their families, their homes and the lives they knew, because our nation asked them to serve. Now, it is our turn to answer the call – to honor them.”
Trip highlights in the nation’s capital
The flight departed Greenville‑Spartanburg International Airport on a Wednesday morning, transporting the veterans to the nation’s capital where they visited the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the World War II Memorial. The group also placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, paying tribute to fallen comrades.
Community welcomes heroes home
Upon returning to South Carolina that evening, the veterans were greeted by hundreds of family members, friends, and community supporters waving American flags and holding signs of appreciation. The warm reception underscored the deep respect the Upstate community holds for its service members.
Looking ahead to future flights
Honor Flight Upstate SC is already fundraising for next year’s trip, aiming to bring more local veterans the same opportunity to experience the nation’s memorials. Those interested in supporting the effort or learning more can visit the organization’s website at honorflightupstatesc.com.
The Honor Flight program, which operates nationwide, continues to provide a meaningful way for civilians to express gratitude to veterans while giving veterans a chance to reflect on their service alongside fellow comrades.
Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.
