FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Good fun proved to be as much a part of the Central Valley Honor Flight as the memorials and museums veterans visited during the weeklong trip.<\/p>\n
The experience included dancing volunteers, singing on buses and performances by the Riverdale Youth Choir, which sang military anthems for the veterans.<\/p>\n
The week began on a celebratory note for Army veteran Willie Moore of Fresno, who marked his 82nd birthday on the first day of the Honor Flight while traveling with his son as his guardian.<\/p>\n
When asked about the timing of the celebration, Moore reflected on the moment.<\/p>\n
Warren Armstrong: “Here it is your birthday, you’re on the Honor Flight, you’re with your son as a guardian, how do sum all that up? What are your thoughts?”<\/p>\n
“A blessing from God. I didn’t figure it out. God laid it out all beautiful for me and I’m enjoying every bit of it,” Moore said.<\/p>\n
Music followed the group throughout the trip, particularly on the Honor Flight buses, where karaoke became part of the daily routine.<\/p>\n
Veterans and volunteers sang along to familiar tunes, including a spirited rendition of “Sweet Caroline,” punctuated by chants of “bum bum bum!”<\/p>\n
The itinerary also included an emotional surprise.<\/p>\n
During a group photo at the World War II Memorial, Navy veteran Ron Wollack of Mariposa learned that his brother and sister were nearby, ready for an unexpected family reunion.<\/p>\n
Asked about the moment, Wollack reacted with visible emotion.<\/p>\n
Warren Armstrong: “Well how about that surprise? What do you think of that?”<\/p>\n
“Oh, I am overwhelmed – totally awesome! I never expected this in a million years either. It was dynamite!” Wollack said.<\/p>\n
For many veterans, however, one of the most meaningful moments came from interactions with children who lined up to greet them, offer thanks and pose for photos.<\/p>\n
Kids could be heard repeatedly saying, “Thank you! Thank your for your service!”<\/p>\n
There was no shortage of cameras during the trip, especially when honoring veterans such as Jaime Ceballos of Visalia, a two-time Purple Heart recipient and Army veteran.<\/p>\n
With iconic memorials as the backdrop, even members of the media paused to snap a selfie or two.<\/p>\n
As the Honor Flight continued, the combination of music, surprise reunions and heartfelt gratitude made the journey memorable for veterans and their families alike.<\/p>\n
For news updates, follow Warren Armstrong on Facebook<\/a> and Twitter<\/a>. Copyright \u00a9 2026 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n