FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The 34th Central Valley Honor Flight returned from Washington, D.C. on Wednesday and was treated to a hero’s welcome.
Many of the 69 veterans from 24 hometowns in 9 counties served in the Vietnam War and did not receive the welcome they deserved when they came home.
The group left Fresno Monday morning to fly to D.C. to visit the memorials honoring their sacrifice and service.
While in D.C., they visited the WWII Memorial, Navy Memorial, US Marine Memorial (Iwo Jima), Air Force Memorial, National Museum of the US Army, Arlington National Cemetery, Tomb of the Unknowns and attended the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and the Korean War and Vietnam Memorials.
Members of the community packed the terminal at Fresno Yosemite International Airport to cheer, wave welcome signs, and American flags.
The veterans, ranging in age from 69 to 100, represented the Army, Navy, Air Force, & Marine Corps.
Some of the guardians on the flight also represented the Coast Guard & Merchant Marine.
Years of service on this Honor Flight ranged from 1943-2000, including World War II, Korean War, Cold War, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and Desert Shield.
Welcome home, heroes.