Many veterans call it the trip of a lifetime.
On Wednesday, East Tennessee's veterans who fought in World War II, Korea and Vietnam will head to Washington D.C. to visit memorial created to honor their sacrifices for HonorAir Knoxville Flight 26.
Veterans began arriving at McGhee Tyson Airport early Wednesday morning ahead of an 8 a.m. departure.
More than 130 veterans will spend Wednesday in Washington D.C. The one-day trip includes tours of the World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Marine and Air Force Memorials. In addition, the group will see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery and drive past the Navy Memorial.
At McGhee Tyson Wednesday, Vietnam veteran Charles Webb said he had his eye on this trip for a while, but he hasn't been able to go until now.
"The Lord is blessed me to be able to go today, and I'm thankful," he said. "I'm just so thankful for all the effort. Every has been so kind."
Loved ones, Boy Scouts, and many others were at the airport early to give these veterans a proper sendoff.
HonorAir wants people to pack into McGhee Tyson Airport tonight to give these heroes an unforgettable welcome home. The welcome home celebration takes place at 8 p.m. at the airport. HonorAir said arrival times will be updated on its Facebook page throughout the day.
In its more than 10 years of service, HonorAir has taken more than 3,100 veterans to Washington, D.C. HonorAir says it costs approximately $500 to provide each veteran this honor, so if you would like to help you can find links to donate on its website, where you can also find applications for veterans to sign up for upcoming flights.