Honor Flight

It was a rainy, overcast day for a memorable occasion to finally give a group of Vietnam veterans the welcome home they deserved.

Don Loken, a Steele County business owner who resides in Owatonna, was part of a Quad Cities Honor Flight group. The Quad Cities metropolitan area includes Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Moline, East Moline, and Rock Island in Illinois.

The Honor Flight Network is a national nonprofit organization comprised of independent hubs working together to achieve the Honor Flight mission of taking veterans on a one-day tour of Washington, D.C. to visit the monuments dedicated to their sacrifices. Originally founded for World War II veterans, the program has expanded to include Vietnam and Korean War veterans.

According to the Honor Flight website, “Participation in an Honor Flight trip gives veterans the opportunity to share this momentous occasion with other comrades, remember the fallen, and share their stories and experiences with other veterans.”

Donations support the trips, so veterans always travel free of charge.

The Honor Flight TLC program also honors veterans of any service era who are critically ill.

Loken made his flight with his niece Joan Maxwell of Donahue, Iowa, who was designated as his guardian. The day started at 5:30 a.m. with Don’s ride taking him to the airport in Moline, Ill.

The airplane was full with 165 veterans and guardians, who pay their own way.

The following is Maxwell’s account of the day:

It’s not every day that you get to witness true heroes being celebrated. In the Quad Cities, that’s exactly what happened.

From the moment the veterans stepped into the airport to the emotional welcome home, every moment was filled with gratitude, respect and patriotic pride.

The day began with a powerful sendoff at the Quad Cities Airport, where veterans were treated like royalty. The Patriot Guard riders stood proudly welcoming the veterans. It was clear that this wasn’t just a trip—it was a mission of gratitude. Volunteers were everywhere, running the operation like clockwork, every veteran and guardian was cared for. No dress, no confusion—just warm smiles, helpful hands and plenty of coffee, donuts, drinks and hot sandwiches to fuel the day.

Arlington National Cemetery
Once in Washington, D.C., the experience only deepened. We began at the Unvar-Hazy Center, part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum where veterans—many of them aviators—stood in awe before the legendary aircraft. Next, we moved to the hallowed grounds of the Arlington National Cemetery, where we observed the Changing of the Guard, a powerful moment of silence that moved us emotionally.

At the Women’s Memorial, a female from our group was honored in a touching tribute to the women who have served our nation with courage and strength.

One highlight of the day came at the World War II Memorial, where we were met by Iowa Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, a veteran herself and a passionate advocate for those who served. Her presence meant so much—especially to me as she took time to greet us personally, to listen to stories and to thank the veterans for their service. Her warmth and respect were deeply felt.

We continued our journey to the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the powerful Vietnam Veterans, Korean War and U.S. Air Force Memorials.

 At each stop, there was time to reflect, remember and reconnect with fellow veterans. Each monument carried a piece of the past and the shared bond of service.

Surprises continue
Back at Dulles Airport, the surprises continued. Strangers approached the veterans to shake hands and say “thank you.” It was spontaneous, genuine and deeply moving.

Then, on the flight home, came a tradition that took many veterans by surprise, “Mail Call.” Just like during their days in the service, each veteran received a packet of letters—handwritten messages from family, friends, schoolchildren, and community members.

“Mail Call” was the biggest surprise of the day for many, and tears were not uncommon. The messages were heartfelt reminders that their service still matters.

But the crowning moment was the welcome home. As we returned to the Quad Cities Airport, we were met by an unforgettable sight of a cheering community, wearing flags and lining the terminal.

Handshakes and hugs
Members of the Rock Island Arsenal, National Guard units, veterans groups and families came out in force. Handshakes, hugs and cheers filled the air.

Vietnam veteran Don was especially emotional.

“This was a lot different than when I came home in 1968,” he said quietly. And, it truly was. This time, he and every veteran was welcomed home with open arms and full hearts.

The Honor Flight of the Quad Cities doesn’t just take veterans on a trip—it brings them closure, humor and the recognition they deserve.

It was a privilege to witness and be a part of a journey that reminded us that all freedom comes at a cost—and those who pay it should never be forgotten.