HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — The community is invited to give a warm and patriotic welcome to local Veterans returning from an Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C. on Saturday, September 27.

A total of 45 Vietnam-era Veterans and one Korea-era Veteran will spend the day visiting some of the nation’s most meaningful memorials, including those honoring service in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, as well as the Navy, Air Force, and U.S. Marine Corps. Their itinerary also includes front-row access to the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery, where they will take part in a wreath-laying ceremony.

To celebrate their service and sacrifices, the public is encouraged to gather at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds by 6:00 p.m. that evening. Supporters will meet in the parking lot outside the exhibit hall to cheer as the Veterans arrive home by bus. Hand-held American flags will be available to wave, and attendees are encouraged to bring homemade signs with messages such as “Welcome Home” and “Thank You for Your Service.”

Organizers note the event will last only about 15–20 minutes but will have a lasting impact for the Veterans, especially those from the Vietnam era who did not receive a hero’s welcome when they returned home decades ago.

“This kind of reception means the world to these men and women,” organizers shared. “It gives them the welcome home they should have received 50 years ago.”

The event is free and open to all community members. For more information about the Honor Flight program, visit www.honorflight-tov.org.