Doing the Impossible
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Tonight a best selling author known for his inspirational book about World War II brought his message to the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce annual dinner.
Among those in the audience were veterans who've experienced some of the things he talked about.
It's a once in a lifetime opportunity that gives some siouxland veterans some closure and thanks.
Wednesday night veterans, who have already taken Honor Flights, listened to author James Bradley give a message of courage and strength.
For some, it's hard to talk about to this day.
Veteran Lee Marsh is one of them. "The Pennsylvania, that's a battle wagon, was there pouring it on them (pauses), sorry."
For others, the memories of World War II are still fresh in their minds.
"At 18 in Iwo Jima, I was smart and knew it all you know, no fear."
While some veterans never tell their families the conditions, hardships or losses they experienced while at war, a once in a lifetime opportunity is giving local veterans a sense of closure, a chance to say goodbye to a dear friend and time to tell old war stories with fellow veterans.
"I think its personal and if it helps a veteran with their memories then that's wonderful." Author James Bradley.
The best selling author of the book, 'Flags of Our Fathers' was the featured speaker at the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce dinner in Sioux City. The message he was hoping to get across was that of doing the impossible.
Bradley says, "Someone had to think of how to do it."
Whether it was their first, second, third or fourth time to see the World War II memorial and other sites in Washington D.C., the Siouxland Honor Flights are new memories mixed with the old of when they had to do the impossible.
"It was quite an awakening, Arlington Cemetery especially."
"I think its wonderful because I was surprised when I went on the first one, I was surprised how many had never been there and it was very emotional, of course I was one of the younger ones, but it was very emotional."
For the veterans who take part on the Honor Flight, it's a ride that many feel would have been impossible without the generosity of others.
"I never did figure I'd ever get a chance, I really appreciated it."
