PORTLAND, Ore. — Sixty veterans from the South Willamette Valley Honor Flight returned to Portland International Airport on Sunday, wrapping up a journey that combined reflection, remembrance, and recognition.
A Journey to the Nation’s Capital
The veterans spent several days in Washington, D.C., where they visited some of the country’s most significant memorials and museums dedicated to military service.
On their final day, the group toured the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of the United States Army. Both visits offered hours of exploration into aviation achievements, military history, and space exploration. For many veterans, the museums provided opportunities to connect their personal service with broader chapters of American history.
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A Hero’s Welcome Home
When the group’s flight touched down in Portland, the returning veterans were met with a grand reception. Families, community members, and supporters lined the terminal, waving flags, cheering, and offering handshakes and salutes as the veterans exited the plane.
For many, the homecoming was as emotional as the trip itself. Organizers described the welcome as a chance to show gratitude for the veterans’ service, particularly for those who may not have received such acknowledgment when they first returned from duty decades ago.
About Honor Flight
The Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization that transports veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials built in their honor. The program began in 2005 and has since flown more than 275,000 veterans from across the country.
The South Willamette Valley chapter, which organized this trip, is one of many regional groups working to ensure that veterans—especially those from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam—get the chance to experience the nation’s gratitude firsthand.
Community Pride
The Portland welcome underscored the strong support for veterans across Oregon. Many attendees said they wanted to honor the sacrifices made by service members and to ensure that their stories are remembered by younger generations.
For the veterans, the combination of visiting historic sites in Washington and receiving heartfelt appreciation at home made for a powerful, unforgettable experience.
