PHOTOS: Eastern Iowa veterans embark on Honor Flight

About 75 Eastern Iowa veterans are spending today, the day before Veterans Day, in the nation's capital.

Participants flew of the Quad City International Airport around 7 a.m. on an Honor Flight. The organization brings World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., for the day to see the memorial dedicated to their service.

Bob Arnold, 87, of Cedar Rapids, served in the Navy from 1942 to 1946 and said he can't wait to explore the monument.

“I'm just like a big kid ... I'm really tickled about it,” he said. “It's a chance to relive the old times and it kind of brings closure.”

The Iowa veterans will tour at least half a dozen monuments today. Companies and local donors covered the expenses.

“I think it's really nice of the people and companies that donated,” said Navy veteran Richard Norton, 83, of Cedar Rapids. “I don't know how we're going to get everything done in one day, but I'm sure we will.”

The veterans will have escorts to help throughout the day. Ray Lehman's son, Bob, will accompany him.

“I asked him if he wanted to do it and he said he wouldn't miss it for the world,” said Lehman, 83.

Lehman, of Cedar Rapids, has fond memories of his time in the Army. He enlisted when he was only 18. Now he feels humbled to have the chance to travel with his son to see the memorial.

“I think it's the greatest thing that's ever happened to me as far as the service is concerned,” Lehman said.

If all goes as planned, the Honor Flight will allow the “greatest generation” to make new memories and perhaps close a chapter in their lives that's remained open and unfinished for the past 60 years.

-- Mark Geary, KCRG-TV9

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