Latest news with #KoreanWarMemorial
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Veterans Honored on Emotional Journey to Washington, D.C.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) —The mission of the Permian Basin Honor Flight is simple—but powerful: to transport local veterans to Washington, D.C., so they can visit the memorials built in their honor. Since launching its first mission in 2014, the Honor Flight has continued to grow—not only in the number of veterans honored, but also in the dedicated community of volunteers and supporters who make each journey possible. The Permian Basin Honor Flight currently serves veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War eras. This year's three-day trip—its 12th mission—welcomed nearly 100 veterans, including those who served in the Korean and Vietnam wars, along with three Gold Star families who traveled in honor of loved ones lost in service. The entire experience is provided at no cost to the veterans. Thanks to generous sponsorships and donations from individuals, businesses, and community organizations across the Permian Basin. The Honor Flight is powered entirely by volunteers—from flight guardians and medics to organizers and support staff. At Midland International Airport, the day began early, but with no shortage of energy. Bagpipes echoed through the terminal as law enforcement officers lined the boarding area, saluting and sending off the veterans with pride. Once in the air, a beloved tradition known as Mail Call brought emotion and smiles. Instead of letters from home, each veteran received a bundle of handwritten cards, colorful drawings, and heartfelt notes from local schoolchildren, expressing gratitude, encouragement, and thanks. Upon arrival at Dulles International Airport, the veterans were greeted by applause and cheers. Strangers waved flags and lined the terminal, welcoming them with two simple but powerful words: 'Thank you.' Over the following days, the group visited several of the nation's most sacred memorials. Bagpipes set the tone as they marched solemnly through the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. At each site, veterans paused in quiet reflection—some grieving, others sketching names etched into stone. Among the moving moments was a special recognition at the Korean War Memorial. William H. Tolbert, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1950 to 1953, was awarded the Ambassador for Peace Medal from the Republic of Korea. 'I joined the Marine Corps in 1950, and I wanted to serve there because they were always my heroes,' Tolbert said. He was visibly moved as he accepted the honor. 'I feel elated. I didn't expect it at all. It was a surprise,' he said. Reflecting on his Honor Flight experience, Tolbert added: 'A good friend of mine made it last year and he said it's a real experience—and I totally agree with him. Good people. Everybody wishing me… you know, thanking me for my service… Making me feel real important for a change. I think this is a great deal that they do.' For more information or to support the mission, visit Continued coverage of the Permian Basin Honor Flight will be provided throughout the week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Remains of Korean War POW laid to rest in Taunton
TAUNTON, Mass. (WPRI) — The remains of a Korean War solider who died more than 70 years ago, were laid to rest in Taunton on Saturday morning. The funeral for Army Private First Class Joseph Travers was held at the Cedar Knoll Cemetery. He was reported missing in action (MIA) in April 1951, then died later that year as a prisoner of war (POW). The 24-year-old Taunton native was a member of Dog Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Last summer, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) identified his remains, which were buried among many others at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. This past Wednesday, dozens of people lined the streets of Taunton to give Travers a hero's welcome home. Mayor Shaunna O'Connell, other officials and members of the community were on hand to receive his remains. His name is etched in stone on the city's Korean War Memorial, marked as MIA, but that will now change. Learn more about Travers' life here. Download the and apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch or with the new . Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Remains of Korean War POW brought home to Taunton for burial
TAUNTON, Mass. (WPRI) — More than 70 years after he died, the remains of a Korean War soldier have finally returned home. Army Private First Class Joseph Travers was reported missing in action (MIA) in April 1951, then died later that year as a prisoner of war (POW). The 24-year-old Taunton native was a member of Dog Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. It wasn't until last summer that the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) identified his remains, which were buried among many others at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. On Wednesday, dozens of people lined the streets of Taunton to give Travers a hero's welcome home. Mayor Shaunna O'Connell and other officials were on hand to receive his remains. Travers will be laid to rest after a funeral on Saturday. His name is etched in stone on the city's Korean War Memorial, marked as MIA, but that will now change. About 7,500 Americans are still unaccounted for after the Korean War, according to the DPAA. Learn more about Travers' life here. Personnel Profile: PFC Joseph R. Travers Download the and apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch or with the new . Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
