Savoy (Guns Save Life) – Willard Airport in Savoy, IL hosted several hundred central Illinoisans, scores of emergency vehicles, a high school band and a huge flag suspended between two fire department ladder trucks to welcome back 65 World War II veterans from a two-day trip to Washington, D.C. as part of the Honor Flight program.
Over 900 flags lined the entrance to the airport and the excited crowd braved chilly temperatures and a light drizzle to welcome each of the equally thrilled veterans off the plane, one at a time.
The vets were taken to see the World War II war memorial, along with memorials for the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and memorials to each military service branch. In addition, they were taken to the Smithsonian, the National Air and Space Museum and Arlington National Cemetery as part of the trip.
The crowd was very enthusiastic and welcoming of the vets as they came down the steps from the plane. Volunteers helped each navigate the stairs with care and love to awaiting family members below.
At the base of the stairs, they were given a hug and often more and asked if they wanted to ride in a wheelchair back to the tent for the reception afterwards. A majority, despite being tired, declined the chair and walked proudly on the red carpet for the closing ceremony.
There were many smiles and tears of joy for the returning veterans. Everyone realized how this trip would certainly be something remembered forever among the participants.
What a wonderful event to be a part of. Even a cold rain didn’t turn any away. There were many cheers and even a few tears. Was an amazing event.
Excellent. Just excellent. Can’t be more proud of the vets, or this entire effort.
Thank you for the wonderful pictures of Grampa Ed. The pics of the girls were so cute!!