A Hero’s Welcome: My Journey with Honor Flight Chicago

We begin our story at the end: a hero’s welcome back home in Military City, USA. At Midway Airport in Chicago, hundreds of loved ones, active-duty service members, and well-wishers cheer and hold signs, creating a heartwarming scene.

A Humbling Experience Witnessing the welcome home from the perspective of a passenger, rather than as part of the airport staff, was both amazing and humbling. Over the last 10 years, I have been involved with the ground side of Honor Flight Chicago, helping to greet veterans as they reunite with their families after their journeys.

The Journey Begins While the cheering crowds are a familiar sight, the quiet moments during the Honor Flight stand out most vividly. Each veteran experiences the memorials in their own unique way, and as a Gulf War-era veteran, I resonate with the emotions felt at the Middle East Conflict Wall and the Forgotten War Memorial.

I had the honor of escorting a Marine named Lee, a close friend for over a decade. Together, we co-founded a veteran-based charity to support veterans and their families, and I was thrilled for him to finally take this trip he deserved.

Early Beginnings Our day began at zero dark thirty, preparing for our 0400 departure. The excitement was palpable as we transported 119 veterans and 50 support personnel from baggage claim to the gate—a military-like operation that required efficiency and coordination.

Once on the plane, the atmosphere was patriotic, complete with the national anthem sung by local favorite Wayne Messmer, setting the tone for our journey ahead.

A Hero’s Welcome in D.C. Upon arrival in Washington, D.C., we were met with a hero’s welcome from a law enforcement color guard and war reenactors presenting a Civil War color guard. This warm reception was just the beginning of an unforgettable day.

Our first stop was the Iwo Jima Memorial, a poignant place for a Marine veteran. The beauty and solemnity of the memorial allowed us time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those it honors.

Next, we visited the World War II Memorial on the National Mall, where a special ceremony recognized the veterans. Throughout the trip, the staff and volunteers from Honor Flight Chicago ensured everyone’s emotional and physical well-being, with medical staff present at every destination.

Emotional Reflections The Lincoln Memorial was the most emotional stop, especially for the 114 Vietnam-era veterans in our group. Each veteran reacted differently, lost in thoughts of distant memories. Some smiled, while others shed tears—each face telling a unique story.

As we enjoyed ice cream at the memorial's base, Lee expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor the past and remember the sacrifices of our military.

A Fitting Conclusion Our final stop was the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum, a cool retreat filled with fascinating exhibits. As we returned to the airport, we were greeted by a large crowd waving flags, reminiscent of the welcome we received earlier.

On the flight home, an announcement of “Mail Call” brought nostalgic emotions, as letters from loved ones, schoolchildren, and local leaders were distributed—an incredibly touching moment.

Upon landing, we were met by first responders and Navy personnel who escorted the honored veterans back to a bustling airport filled with cheering supporters. As I led Lee through the crowd, I was reminded of the profound impact of our service and sacrifice.

Coming Full Circle As our journey concluded, I left Lee with his family and made my way to my own loved ones, who were eagerly awaiting my return. I am proud to be a long-time supporter of Honor Flight Chicago and to have participated in the Welcome Home event for the past decade alongside my motorcycle community and the American Legion family.

This experience reaffirms the importance of honoring our veterans and the profound connections we share. I look forward to continuing this journey and supporting those who have given so much for our freedom.

Sean McNamara - Career & Technical Education Instructor - USIC