Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Veterans Gary Herring and Bob Wilson, who served in the Vietnam War, recently embarked on a Central Florida Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. The trip was an opportunity for the two friends to reflect on their military service and memories from that period.

Bob Wilson, initially an anti-war protester before being drafted in 1971, found himself moved by the commitment of his fellow soldiers. "When you start meeting these people, especially the ones in for a long period, you know they’re making a sacrifice," he shared. His journey through various memorials during the Honor Flight stirred deep emotions as he remembered those who served alongside him and his father’s involvement in World War II and the Korean War.

Wilson's experience at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and The Wall (Vietnam Memorial) highlighted feelings of love and loss. He expressed how faith supported him throughout his journey: "The whole time it’s your faith (that gets you through)," he noted.

Herring was hesitant to join Wilson on this reflective trip due to difficult memories from Vietnam. As a young Marine radio operator constantly in the field with line companies like 5th Marines, 2nd Battalion, Herring faced spiritual challenges amidst war's chaos. He recounted how his mother's prayers unknowingly sustained him during those times.

Upon returning home from Vietnam, Herring faced personal losses that led him back to his Catholic roots after years attending Protestant services with his wife. Visiting the Vietnam Memorial proved too painful for Herring; instead, he found solace through prayer. "As you pray, He gives you peace," he said.

Both veterans were met with gratitude upon their return home—an appreciation they had not received when initially coming back from war decades ago.