news-record.com

On the morning of Oct. 28, I  watched WXll (Channel 12) reporting on 103 World War II veterans as they gathered to take the “Triad Flight of Honor,” a trip of a lifetime to Washington to view the World War II Memorial, as well as other military memorials.

As I watched the plane taxi through a beautiful water cannon salute, I had tears for all of them. Their experiences for the day would be unforgettable.

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of High Point, I was honored to be on the inaugural flight from the Triad on Oct. 3 with 100 other veterans. The Guardians (mine being Nick Ruden) treated us like royalty; the crowds that greeted us in Washington and on our return trip to Greensboro were overwhelming with their praise and thanks.

Of course, it was impossible to control the tears. Only veterans can understand our inability to easily accept thanks for something we had to do.

My greatest admiration goes to the group of volunteers organized to plan this event. The result was definitely an example of perfect planning.

I would like to thank the Guardians, supporters, the Rotary Clubs, Bob and Elizabeth Dole and WXII. Special thanks to Jeff Miller from Hendersonville, who initiated this program in North Carolina, and the thousands of people who thanked us veterans for our service in World War II.

Frank Tothill
High Point