Sixteen Kern County veterans and 16 volunteers departed Meadows Field on Saturday morning for their Honor Flight to Washington DC.

Before boarding took place veterans stood as the flag of honor presentation took place for fallen soldier Major Gilbert Reynolds. He served in the U.S. Army and was an American officer held as a prisoner of war during World War II. He received many awards for his service including the Purple Heart. Reynolds later died of colitis.

After the flag ceremony took place, each veteran was called forward in front of their peers in the airport lobby where a snapshot of their story of their time in the service was shared, and honored with applause and thanks.

During the trip veterans will visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and other monuments. They will also stop by the office of Kern County Congressman and House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy.

This Honor Flight returns Monday night. There will be a welcome home celebration at 8:30 p.m. at Meadows Field. Everyone is invited to come and help welcome the veterans home.

Honor Flight is all made possible through community donations and organizers hope to continue the tradition for many years to come. To find out more information on how you can take flight with local veterans visit honorflightkerncounty.org.