Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1521340
| LIFE IN SOLERA | JUNE 2024 | 9 Early on May 3, Solera resident Babe Brown and his son Don boarded a plane with 35 other U.S. veterans and their 'guardians' for the 17th Honor Flight Southland. These are flights that pay tribute to the sacrifices made by veterans of foreign wars such as World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War … sacrifices they made so that we can live free. This was their time to reflect, reminisce and be properly honored for what they gave for our freedom. During the flight, they even had "mail call," which was an incredibly special surprise for these vets, as mail call during wartimes was their only means of contact with their loved ones back home. Lots of tears in opening their mail packages! Upon arrival, they settled into their hotel and enjoyed a welcome dinner, which included self-introductions and more poignant moments. Early on Saturday, they boarded a bus and toured Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (with a wreath laying ceremony), the Iwo Jima, Lincoln, and FDR Memorials. They witnessed the Changing of the Guard, as well as memorials for the U.S. Air Force, US Marine Corps, World War II, Vietnam Veterans, and Korean War Veterans — which was very dear to Babe as he was stationed in Germany during this conflict. It was a 14-hour day after which dinner was served and the photos and videos from that day were viewed by the whole group. What a treat! On Sunday, the group had breakfast and headed to Fort McHenry to participate in a flag folding ceremony, enjoying a hardy lunch afterwards of some good ol' barbecue, followed by a tour of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. After another full day, they headed back to the airport for a late-night flight back to SoCal, where they were greeted by friends and family — a wonderful, well-deserved, proper homecoming! A trip that Babe and his son will never forget, full of shared memories, good food and tears. A sincere thank you to our Babe, and to his military brothers and sisters, for their service. We love and salute you! A Life-Changing Trip For Father & Son RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT