Utah veterans head to DC for ‘trip of a lifetime’

SALT LAKE CITY — On Tuesday, dozens of veterans left the Salt Lake City International Airport to visit Washington, D.C., for a special trip.

The trip, sponsored by Nucor Steel, includes World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veterans.

With a total of 75 veterans heading out, the trip has long been called “the trip of a lifetime.” 

The flight is provided at no cost to the veterans.

“It’s exciting,” said veteran Derek Warnes.

Warnes went to Fort Benning in Georgia for paratrooper training and then served in North Carolina at Fort Bragg.

James Richardson, who’s also attending the trip, served during the Vietnam War in Thailand. 

“Great to see our nation’s capital,” Richardson said.

Vill Johnson said he is looking forward to visiting the nation’s monuments, particularly the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where he has history himself.

“It’s very special returning there… going to the various monuments is exceptional,” Johnson said.

Johnson said going on the flight with other veterans gives them the chance to meet or reconnect with fellow brothers and sisters in arms. 

“It gives us the opportunity to speak to each other. In other words, some of us were stationed at the same place,” Johnson said. 

On Wednesday night, the veterans and their guardians will return to a welcome home celebration held at the Salt Lake City International Airport by the baggage claim area. 

Members of the public are invited to attend the event and should arrive at the airport no later than 9 p.m. Wednesday.