Honor Flight to D.C. memorable experience

On May 21, I was one of the veterans who went to Washington, D.C., as part of the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight.

I want to thank Quaker Oats, which sponsored the trip. Also, the veterans who volunteered their time to make the trip possible and to the guardians who helped all have a great time.

I was amazed by how much we were able to see - all the memorials, changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown, Arlington Cemetery and a bus tour of Washington, D.C.

On the way home, roll call as we were given letters from family and friends. This was a surprise to all. We received very nice gifts to remember our trip.

What a welcome we got as we were coming through the exit to the lobby of the airport - the band playing, veterans from all branches of service holding American flags, Boy Scouts, family, friends and churches.

Thanks to the Marines who let my wife stand in between them so she could get a picture of me when I entered the lobby. My son and his wife surprised me there in line to greet me, too.

Clifford Higgins

Cedar Rapids