LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Eighty-three veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War took a special journey to Washington, D.C., on an Honor Flight Bluegrass mission to see their memorials, free of charge.
From the moment they arrived at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, the veterans were celebrated for their service and sacrifice.
One of the Vietnam War veterans, Dale Stickler, shared his experience.
"I was in the Navy from 1968 to 1972, a Navy Seabee. Seabees are not considered combat units, but we are support units with combat capability. This is my first time in D.C., and my first time seeing the wall. Very impressive," Stickler said.
He carried photographs of fellow servicemen who had been killed in action, placing their pictures against their names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
"It brought a personal effect to it," Stickler added. For many veterans, seeing the thousands of names on the Wall was a deeply moving and healing experience, providing closure to wounds that had remained open for decades.
Another Vietnam veteran, Daniel Minton, recounted the story of a friend who had died in combat.
"We were heavy artillery, 1st of the 83rd, and him and the pilot got shot down. They survived the crash but were captured, and both were shot in the head," Minton shared.
He later connected with his friend’s son, sending him a photo and sharing that "your dad was one of the coolest guys I ever met." The son replied, "I'm glad to know my dad was cool. He didn't really know his dad." The 1st Battalion, 83rd Artillery served in the Vietnam War from October 1966 to May 1971.
Among the veterans on the Honor Flight were three who served in World War II, including Russ Fischer. Reflecting on the experience, Fischer said, "That was a great welcome. That's so nice — everybody hollering and clapping. That was so nice of them to give us that recognition."
During the trip, the veterans visited several significant sites, including the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Air Force Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery.
Stickler expressed his gratitude toward Honor Flight volunteers, saying, "I'm so proud of the people in Honor Flight. We are humbled by all of their volunteerism, all the time they spent with us. It’s quite different. When we came back from Vietnam, in certain cities, you didn't even want to wear your uniform because you'd get into a fight, or some guys had to run a gauntlet of being called baby killers and get spit on. It wasn't our fault; it was the politicians. I'm glad that's changed now. It makes it so nice."
When the veterans returned to the Louisville airport, they were met with a true hero's welcome. Dozens of people greeted them, carrying signs, American flags, and balloons. There were handshakes, hugs, and cheers as the veterans were honored for their service and sacrifice.
For more information on Honor Flight Bluegrass, click here.
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