Dozens of veterans from northern Nevada gathered at Reno‑Tahoe International Airport on Sunday after completing an Honor Flight Nevada mission to Washington, D.C. The trip, organized by the nonprofit Honor Flight Nevada, gave 38 service members a chance to visit the nation’s most revered monuments and memorials.
Veterans reflect on the experience
Suzi Sires, a former Navy nurse who served during the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm and Operation Noble Eagle, called the journey “the best experience I think I’ve had in my entire life.” She also participated in a wreath‑laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, describing the moment as “solemn and sobering and wonderful, all at the same time.”
Greg Gannon, an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, and his son Kerry Gannon, an Air National Guard member who served in the 2005 Iraq War, highlighted the changing of the guard at the Tomb as a standout memory. “It’s emotional,” Greg said, noting that the trip felt like a long‑awaited homecoming after more than five decades.
Highlights of the Washington, D.C., tour
The veterans visited the Pentagon, the 9/11 Memorial, and the National Museum of American History, among other sites. Kerry Gannon expressed gratitude for sharing the experience with his father, saying, “A lot of great stuff there and I’m glad I got to do it with my dad.”
Other participants noted the powerful impact of seeing the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the quiet dignity of the memorials. The trip also included a guided tour of the National Archives and a visit to the U.S. Capitol grounds.
Community impact and future missions
Jon Yuspa, founder of Honor Flight Nevada, emphasized the broader effect of the mission, stating, “It’s life‑changing not just for the veterans in the red shirts. We say there’s about a 20‑to‑25‑person ripple effect. It’s the community. It’s the kids that are out here that are going to remember it.” He added that the emotional resonance of the trip will continue to inspire families and local schools.
Veterans interested in future trips can apply online when the next mission opens for applications on October 22. The organization encourages families, community groups, and local businesses to support the program through donations and volunteer opportunities.
Honoring service at home
Upon returning to Reno, the veterans were greeted by family members, local officials, and volunteers who helped coordinate the flight. The atmosphere at the airport reflected the deep gratitude of the community for those who have served. As the Gannons and other veterans shared their stories, many listeners expressed a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members.
Honor Flight Nevada continues to rely on partnerships with airlines, local charities, and volunteers to make these trips possible. The organization’s mission is to ensure that every eligible veteran has the opportunity to see the nation’s monuments and receive the recognition they deserve.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
