News : Eastern Iowa Honor Flight #39 included several Local Veterans

Ron Albright with Guardian and daughter Rondalyn

The Honor Guard in attendance at the return of the flight

Alex Schoenfield with Darrell Williams

Darrell Williams

Larry Driscoll with his Guardian Steve Steinhoff

Larry Driscol and Steve Seinhuff

Guardian Mike Kenney, with Jeff and Darrell Kenney

L.Ronald Hess

L.Ronald Hess and

Darrell Kenney hugging granddaughter Karley Kenney upon his return to the Cedar Rapids Airport

Several area veterans were able to take part in the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight #39 this week. Some shared their photos and a bit about their trip.

Darrell Williams, a Vietnam Veteran said, "I had not flown since I came home from Vietnam which has been 52 years." He said that his day in Washington D.C. was the most unforgettable experience. "Thank you all for the wonderful letters I received on my Honor Flight I enjoyed them all so much and all the messages on Facebook." He thanked his family for coming to welcome him home and he sent out a special thank you to his Guardian for the trip, his nephew Alex Schoenfield.

Another veteran L. Ronald Hess, also a Vietnam Veteran was accompanied by his granddaughter Tawny Hess. One of the thing he thought was the best was the homecoming. He was impressed by all of the hands that he shook at the airport but the best part was seeing his family again.

Larry Driscol appreciated seeing Arlington Cemetery and the Vietnam Memorial wall. He found three Vinton men who died during the Vietnam War. Every year Driscol has taken it upon himself to keep a flag on their graves year around. While he did not serve with them, these three were killed in action giving the ultimate price, Driscol shared. "Two of them are in Evergreen Cemetery, Joe Fowler and Ron Johnson. One is in Maplewood Cemetery, Wayne Wutzke. "God bless their souls for their ultimate sacrifice," Driscol said. It was most meaningful to Driscol to find their names on the Vietnam Wall and to know that their sacrifice won't be forgotten by others.

Darrell Kenney also made the trip and was accompanied by his Guardian Mike who is his son. The welcome home touched him the most as well.

"The Honor Flight was one of the most awesome things I have ever experienced. I was really touched by the Soldiers at Arlington. The Changing of the Guard and placing a new wreath was such a solemn event to witness. The Marine Rifle Drill team was equally impressive. The sheer length of the Vietnam Veterans Wall with the thousands of names on it makes a person think of all the loved ones who paid the ultimate price," said Ron Albright. "I was so happy my daughter, Rondalyn was able to go with me. I will cherish this day for the rest of my life!"

All of the veterans who honored guests on this trip also recognized and were appreciative for all of the volunteers, fellow veterans and donations that were made to make the trip possible. The reception at the Cedar Rapids Airport touched each of the veterans.

Albright said, "I would urge any veteran who is able to travel to sign up for this wonderful trip."