Tears streamed down Ryan Mallery's face as he awaited his father Dave's return on Tuesday night from Washington, D.C. Dave's return to Spokane International Airport with fellow veterans and Inland Northwest Honor Flight volunteers following a two-day trip to visit war memorials was vastly different than his return from the Vietnam War. "One of the best experiences of my life," the Post Falls man said after making his way through the parade of veterans at the airport. "It was exciting to see all the memorials, and the saddest part was Arlington (National Cemetery.)" When he returned home, Dave and fellow veterans were welcomed by about 1,000 people, including veteran family members, friends, honor guards and a high school band in a warm and emotional ceremony — and not spat upon like during the war./Brian Walker, CDA Press. More here.

My father-in-law was able to go on an Honor Flight a couple years before his death. What an awesome experience for these vets.

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