Grand Forks veterans reach D.C. after long wait for memorial visit

A contingent of 117 veterans from Grand Forks, North Dakota, landed in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday to view the nation's major war memorials. The group represents a mix of military service eras, with 114 veterans having served during the Vietnam War and three during the Korean War. The delegation consists of 115 men and two women.

The Honor Flight program facilitates these trips for veterans who may not have visited the capital since their service. Byron Cole, a U.S. Army veteran from the Vietnam War, noted that the camaraderie among the group differed from the reception they often received at home. "This is awesome. A bunch of guys get along a lot, talk a lot, it’s fun. It’s kind of the welcome we never got," Cole said.

For some participants, the visit serves a psychological purpose beyond sightseeing. Thomas Rainsberry, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam, stated that the experience allows veterans to process their time in the military. "Well, it’s bringing some closure to some veterans. Because it’s finally getting them to open up to other veterans who served at the same time," Rainsberry said.

Ken Monson, a U.S. Air Force veteran, said he received encouragement from family members who supported his decision to travel. "Well, I’m getting a lot of recognition from friends and relatives who are saying, ‘Yeah, you deserve that! You deserve that! I’m glad you’re going.’ I don’t feel very special but I’m sure glad I’m able to come here," Monson said.

The group’s itinerary includes stops at the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial, the National Museum of the U.S. Army, and Arlington National Cemetery. The veterans are scheduled to return to Grand Forks on Tuesday evening.

The memorials feature walls inscribed with thousands of names, allowing the visitors to see the scale of their service context alongside those who did not return.