Area WWII, Korean War Veterans Embark On Emotional Trip
SPRINGFIELD, Pa. (CBS) - They've been called the "Greatest Generation" and some made a special trek Saturday for honor and recognition.
Emotions were flying high as 150 Korean War and WWII veterans left Delaware County at 6 a.m. for a trip to the nation's capital.
"And we'll be visiting the memorials that they sacrificed so much for to preserve our freedom," says Andrew Schiavello.
His group -- Honor Flight Philadelphia -- along with Axalta Coatings made this day happen.
The stops include the Arlington National Cemetery, Air Force Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Korea Memorial then the WWII Memorial.
And during the return...
"We give each veteran an envelope filled with letters written by school children as a thank you," says Schiavello.
Joseph Graziano was just 17 years old during Pearl Harbor. He showed up Saturday dressed in uniform.
"This experience is new to me. I'm excited about this experience and to get all this attention, my God."
Herman Wentzler fought in three different wars. He admits he was overwhelmed by this experience:
"I never imagined all this. I thought we'd get on a bus and have a cup of coffee and be on our way. This is unbelievable."
A special day for some special men and women...150 war veterans leaving for a free trip to DC @KYWNewsradio pic.twitter.com/Ip6AaUQdVp
— Andrew Kramer (@Philly_Kramer) May 21, 2016
This is actually Wentzler's first time visiting the memorials, as was the case for some of the other veterans, adding emotion to an already touching experience.
The long day concludes with a well deserved heroes welcome home for the veterans.
"We're met by over 300 motorcycles, there's a fire engine draping a flag on every overpass, and the bus truly goes quiet. And the tears start. And they remember that a nation loves them. And many of these men and women take this to their grave because this is the final chapter."
The night ends with dinner and a USO-style show.