WASHINGTON (TNND) — As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Honor Flight celebrates the brave men and women who have served the nation from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

The program offers veterans the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., and view the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. "

"It's an absolute honor to be able to take these men and women out to Washington, D.C.," said Aaron Van Beek, President of the Midwest Honor Flight. For many, the journey offers healing and closure, especially for Vietnam veterans who never received a heroic homecoming. "Vietnam was an experience that you had to be there to understand it," said one veteran.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is particularly emotional, as veterans find the names of fallen comrades. "I have a couple of friends who are on the wall. I want to look their names up," said John Bridwell, U.S. Army Vietnam War Veteran. The Honor Flight serves as a tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and a reminder of the enduring spirit of America's heroes.