| Flight 311 May 5-11-11 |
| Sponsored by Walter Durkee American Legion Post 311 Arranged by Bob Becker |
| The day began very early for 31World War II Veterans, with each one having a guardian, two doctors and two nurses, to assist them. Check in was 5 AM with take off at 6:15 AM. Coffee and rolls were waiting upon arrival at the airport. Thanks to Tom Plaska and the Patriot Guard for the send-off. |
| Upon our arrival at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport we were greeted by a group of volunteers of Honor Flight Network. They met us at the jet ramp and walked our group through the airport to the location were our bus would pick us up. They provided additional walkers and wheel cars. The history of Honor Flight Network can be located at www.honorflight.org |
| Members from Post 305 that went on Flight 311 were Jay Shook, Glen Klaver, Bill DeLeeuw, Chet Teater, Bill Lysdahl and Bill White. |
| First stop was the World War II Memorial |
| Coming up to the Freedom Wall with it's 4,000 stars, representing over 400,000 Americans who gave their lives in the war. A group picture was taken and Mike Burri played Taps. |
| A special surprise was Bob Dole who showed up to meet all the Vets. |
| After a box lunch, in the park along the Potomac River we proceeded to Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier. |
| Then onto the Vietnam Memorial |
| The Korean Memorial |
| After leaving Washington DC for the airport, much time was spent riding the bus in rush hour traffic. A stop at Country Buffet for dinner was a welcome sight by all. We then left for the airport and were greeted once again by our new friends from Honor Flight. They assisted use unloading and guiding use through the airport to our gate. While waiting to begin boarding, "Mail Call" came. Each Vet was given a package with letters from family and friends welcoming them home. It was another emotional moment for the Vets. |
| After a long day the Vets were treated to another surprise. Each Vets family and friends were there to greet them on their return home. |
| Click on any picture to enlarge it. |
