BAKERSFIELD, CA - The 12th Honor Flight Kern County is in the books. Local World War II and Korean War veterans returned home Monday night, from a trip to our nation's capital to see the memorials built in their honor. It's more than just seeing the sights, for many of the veterans, it's a time of reflection.
It's an experience many of them might not have otherwise had. They shared stories, laughs, tears and created new memories, while looking back at their pasts.
All the way from Bakersfield to Washington, D.C., crowds cheering for our veterans.
WWII Veteran, U.S. Army Air Corps, Harold Reed said, "The kids, they're beautiful. I'm sure glad I could come."
That is just the beginning. Early Sunday morning, 39 WWII and Korean War veterans headed out to see the memorials built in their honor. This is the first time many of the vets have seen the memorials.
U.S. Army, Charles Schmidt said, "A day of infamy."
It brought up memories they don't often share.
WWII Veteran, U.S. Army, Carl Toney, Sr. said, "It was pretty rough when I was in there. It was, I say rough because lots of guys was dying you know. It kind of hurt you, you know. I hardly ever talk about that. I never do."
At Arlington National Cemetery our veterans took part in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
It was an experience they say they'll never forget.
WWII Veteran, U.S. Navy, Madonna Marek said, "I just wanted to burst with joy and I felt like crying and laughing and everything at the same time. I just felt so honored."
At the Capitol, more applause and gratitude.
WWII Veteran, U.S. Army, Tom Little said, "It's the greatest thing that's ever happened to me."
Before heading home, one last stop at Fort McHenry.
For more information on Honor Flight Kern County, click on
http://www.honorflightkerncounty.org/
