Noel Friday of Osceola was among the 385 veterans who, on Sept. 30, were on Iowa’s first Korean War Veterans Honor Flight.
Friday served in the U.S. Air Force from 1952-56 and was stationed in Japan for more than 18 months. During that time, he traveled to Air Force bases in Korea and Japan.
The Honor Flight flew the veterans to Washington, D.C., on a 747 jet where they visited various memorials. Their stops included memorials for the Korean War, World War II, Vietnam, Iwo Jima and the new American Veterans Disabled for Life. They also toured Arlington Cemetery where they witnessed the changing of the guard ceremony.
Corporate sponsors included Hy-Vee and Casey’s. All arrangements are made by volunteers. Also, volunteers were present at all times in Des Moines, on the plane and in Washington, D.C., to provide assistance. The Patriot Guard was present to send the veterans off at 4:30 a.m. and again to welcome them home at 11:30 p.m.
Friday said he truly appreciates the effort and expense put forth to honor these veterans. He said the trip was wonderful and enjoyed getting to know other veterans and hearing their stories.