Honor Flight A Trip I'll Never Forget

A Letter to the Editor from Bill Brown:

Attention all WWII and Korean veterans, run, do not walk to a computer and look up and sign up at Honor Flight New England.

On Sunday, June 17 (Father's day) I had the honor of being one of 43 veterans that flew to Washington D.C. for the day, and it ranked up there with my grandchildren graduations the month before.

My guardian and I arrived at Troop F State Police barracks at about 5:15 a.m. Upon check in each veteran was given a T-shirt, a hat, a jacket, and a backpack filled with all sorts of stacks and "goodies" including a disposable camera.

We were put on three buses and given a Blue Lights escort to terminal A where we were greeted by hundreds of people, Boy Scouts, etc.

While waiting to board the plane Dunkin Donuts sent around never ending donuts. I think I ate at least four.

We boarded the plane and flew on chartered Southwest Airlines plane to Baltimore. We were again greted by hundreds of people. We boarded buses for a Blue Light escort to the WWII memorial. Geting back on the bus, everyone was given a box lunch.

After a short trip around the capital building we made our way to the Vietnam and Korean memorials. Rebounding we made our way to Arlington National Cemetery where we watched the changing of the guard.

Then it was back on the bus for a quick stop at the Air Force museum and a Blue Light escort back to Baltimore. Upon arrival at the Hilton Hotel, everyone sat down to full course turkey dinner. Then back to the airport for our return to Boston.

The oldest vet on the trip was 100. The youngest guardian was 20. Three vets from Grenfield have been together since the first grade.

I urge every WWII and Korean vet, relative or friend, to sign up for this trip. I am told that Honor Flight will accept Southwest frequent flier miles. What better cause could you donate to than to honor those that have served this country in time of need.

Bill Brown, Martin Road