Story by Steve Hart
Hunter Army Airfield
Twenty-six veterans of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War received a warm and respectful send-off from Hunter Army Airfield in a ceremony May 4 prior to the veterans boarding a charter bus that took them to Washington, D.C. to tour the various war memorials and other sites in their honor.
"It's always humbling to stand in the presence of greatness," said Lt. Col. Ken Dwyer, Hunter Army Airfield from the podium to the veterans. "We experience the freedoms that we enjoy in this great nation because of your loyalty to this country and the bravery you demonstrated," he added.
World War II veteran Russell Smith said he "is proud to be associated with others who served their country." He added that he, in particular, is eager so see the Marnie Memorial of the American flag being raised.
This Honor Flight trip is the 19th since the inaugural event in 2009. The veterans who departed Hunter Army Airfield by charter bus with their escorts brings the Honor Flight Savannah total to 1,250 who participated in this "Tour of Honor."
In his prayer, Chaplain (Maj.) Luis Anda from the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade said "those sitting here today understand the cost of freedom. Since the beginning of this nation in which you founded, men, women and Families have sacrificed much. Thank you for these veterans who sit here today, who were willing to give their lives so that others may be free."
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