By Betsy Turner
The recent Honor Flight on September 14 meant many things to many different people. To Veterans it was a chance to visit the Nation’s Capital and see the many monuments, including the ones to honor their service and that of their comrades. To the aides, it was a chance to help a Veteran who might not have been able to make the trip unassisted by lending a helping hand. To the organizers, donors and the many people who raised the funds for the flight to take place, it was a work of love. To two girls, Junior members of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31, Shinnston, it was the chance to show their support for our Veterans and celebrate their service to our country. For Marsha Duckworth, Unit 31 member and Unit 31 First Vice President who went as a guardian, it was a dream come true.
Kendalyn and Aleena Pierce and Ava Bryant spent time and energy making cards for the Veterans on the flight and posters. Although Ava, from Morgantown, wasn’t able to attend the homecoming, both Kendalyn and Aleena were there. Although the girls could have gone home when the flight was late returning, they were determined to stay to welcome the Veterans back home. They had welcome posters and carried American Flags to welcome the Veterans. Kendalyn said it was so wonderful to see all of the Veterans get off the plane and come through the airport. She said it made her feel, “so good that she could be there”. Aleena said, “it made her want to cry it was so wonderful”. She gifted one of the Veterans with her American Flag. Both girls said everyone was so happy.
Marsha Duckworth said, “it was an amazing trip. Getting on the plane was wonderful. Then getting off the plane was fantastic. Hearing the band, seeing all the flags and all of the people who came to welcome back the Veterans. I was in tears the whole time. The water cannon salute over the plans as we landed was an awesome feeling. Being with the Veterans all day and watching their reactions to so many things and the way they were treated was so fulfilling. I had the honor of being two Veterans from Randolph County, brothers-in-law. It was my pleasure to be their guardian all day. I would love to do it again next year, but I don’t know if my age or health will allow me. I have to thank American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31 for making the trip possible for me.”
Terry Robey, a member of American Legion Post 31 was also on this year’s flight.