LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Crowds of people were on hand to greet U.S. military veterans as they returned to Louisville late Tuesday night after participating in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

The group of 83 veterans served in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War. During their free trip to the nation's capital provided by Honor Flight Bluegrass, the vets were able to view the memorials honoring their service and sacrifices. 

The vets were also treated to a hero's welcome when they returned to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Tuesday night. Some of them were surprised by the size of the crowd. 

"I thought there was going to be a few people," said John McIntosh, who served in Vietnam. "I couldn't believe how many people were coming through there."

Navy vet David Carroway was also surprised by the enthusiastic reception. "Wow!" he said. "What a big welcome home," he said. 

WDRB's Valerie Chinn also made the trip with her father Tom, who served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970 during the Vietnam War. He as a member of the 1st Infantry Div. HQ at Di Ä‚n during his first year. He then volunteered for two, six-month tour in Vung Tau, Vietnam.

Valerie Chinn with her father after Honor Flight Bluegrass returns

Pictured: WDRB's Valerie Chinn poses with her father, Tom, at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in the late evening hours of Sept. 24, 2024, after they traveled to see memorials in Washington, DC, paid for by Honor Flight Bluegrass. (WDRB image)

Chinn received several medals, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He reached the rank of SP5 (E-5 Sergeant) after serving 10 months in Vietnam. 

Not long after he arrived in country, Tom said Bob Hope visited the troops; however, Tom was serving guard duty at the entrance of the base and couldn't see Hope's performance. 

Valerie Chinn was grateful for the opportunity to make the trip with her father. "It was so special," she said. "It was an incredible experience. I've covered the Honor Flight a couple of times. And it's different covering it as a reporter and seeing it through the eyes of your father."

Chinn said her dad "had an amazing time," and none of the vets on the flight had any idea there would be such a warm welcome.

Honor Flight Bluegrass is a way to give back to the veterans and give them a proper "welcome home" after some of them weren't able to receive that when they returned home years ago. The journeys give them a chance to see the monuments dedicated to their service and have some fellowship with brothers in arms.

Honor Flight Bluegrass is an Honor Flight Network chapter based in Louisville. To learn more about the nonprofit, click here. 

Related Stories:

Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.