(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Honor Flight of Southern Colorado returned to Colorado Springs on Saturday, Oct. 4, bringing back 58 veterans who visited Washington, D.C. monuments dedicated to their service.
This was the 21st mission for the Honor Flight of Southern Colorado, which included veterans from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The trip is entirely funded by donations, highlighting the community’s support for honoring veterans.
John Huntz, a proud Marine and Vietnam veteran, said visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial left him speechless. “When we came home, we came home by ourselves,” said Huntz. “This was overwhelming. I mean, I still got tears in my eyes.”
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Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Cora Mitchell -
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Cora Mitchell -
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Cora Mitchell -
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Cora Mitchell -
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Cora Mitchell -
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Cora Mitchell
The veterans were welcomed home with a heartfelt reception at Colorado Springs Christian School, where community members gathered to show their appreciation.
Currently, there are more than 300 veterans on the waiting list for the Honor Flight of Southern Colorado, which translates to a wait time of about two-and-a-half years.
Honor Flight organizers emphasize that these journeys provide a powerful opportunity for reflection and long-overdue recognition of the veterans’ service and sacrifice for the nation’s freedom.
Upon returning home, Huntz thought of his grandson, who is currently serving in the Marine Corps. “He’s currently off the coast of Norfolk, Virginia,” said Huntz. “And J.T., if you see this, I’m proud of you.”
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