Montana

MT World War II veterans tour National Mall

Posted: Sep 24, 2012 4:53 AM by Angela Douglas - Q2 News
Updated: Sep 24, 2012 4:53 AM

The Big Sky Honor Flight receives a heroes welcome in D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - After receiving a hero's welcome at Washington Dulles International Airport, the Big Sky Honor Flight veterans hit the road to the National Mall.

Once there, the 87 WWII veterans were given the opportunity to tour the Lincoln, Vietnam and Korean Memorials.

Billings Mayor Tom Hanel, along with his father and WWII veteran, Tom, were in awe of the experience. "It's incredible," the father and son agreed.

Thousands of tourists wandered through the National Mall Sunday afternoon, many of them stopping to thank Montana's veterans for their service. Even a school group of young children spent a few moments talking with Shepherd veteran Lawrence Lee. It was a moment that brought him to tears. "I just love the children. That's what it's about," he said emotionally.

The veterans will tour the World War II Memorial, Arlington National Ceremony and Iwo Jima on Monday.