TROY, N.Y. --Some World War II veterans and 18 volunteers are seeing the World War II memorial in D.C. For the first time.
"I'm very excited, it's been quite a week just building up," said Ellen McKnight, who is the widow of a veteran.
For Ellen, it's about more than just the memorial, though. Her husband is buried at the National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia and she hasn't been able to visit his grave for some time.
"It's been almost ten years now so even just to drive by it..." McKnight said as her voice trailed off.
"It's a moving experience. I hope I have the opportunity to take my mother to see my father's grave, "said Stuart McKnight, Ellen’s son.
The second trip to Washington D.C. For World War II veterans took off Saturday. Our Kaitlyn Ross saw them off to the airport, and tells us it's a very special event for those making the trip.
His father's grave is right near the tomb of the unknown soldier in Arlington. As well as remembering his father and her husband, they hope to honor the thousands of men and women who lost their lives in the war.
It will be the first time for both Stuart and Ellen to see the World War II Memorial in D.C.
"It's going to be a memorable event, I'm looking forward to being down there with these WW2 veterans, they deserve this," said Stuart.
He's not the only one who thinks the veterans deserve a chance to see the memorial built in their honor. Hundreds of people donated to the cause, and came out to support the vets as they took off for D.C.
"It's important so that they know that everyone in America remembers them and honors them and thanks them for what they did for our country, said Suzi Granger with the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Club.
Several local motorcycle clubs showed up to escort the bus to the airport, and to express their gratitude to the men and women aboard.
"I just want to say thank you! Not only to them, but to their families, and their children as well for making this event possible," Granger said.
Patriot Flight 2008 continues to raise funds for a larger trip in the fall. To date, the group has raised more than $30,000. Time is of the essence as the average age of these heroes is 85.
Donations are appreciated and are used completely for the veteran travel costs. Guardians pay their own way. Donations can be sent to the Troy Senior Center at 19 Third Street, Troy, New York 12180 payable to Patriot Flight 2008.
www.patriotflight2008.com