Two Peninsula residents were among 90 WWII, Korean, and Vietnam war veterans treated to a recent free weekend Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. where they toured the nation’s war memorials, returning home to a hero’s welcome of several hundred supporters.

Honored for their service and just returned from their Honor Flight were Vietnam veterans Sgt. William Joyce and Navy veteran petty officer 3rd Class William “Woody” Woodward.

Their unforgettable trip was sponsored by the nonprofit Honor Flight San Diego, one of approximately 130 hubs nationwide. Honor Flight San Diego is funded through generous individuals, foundations, associations, business owners, and corporations. Each tour that Honor Flight San Diego sponsors twice annually costs about $310,000.

Those touring on this particular Honor Flight included a 98-year-old WWII veteran, two brothers who served during the Vietnam War, the longest-held enlisted Prisoner of War from the Vietnam War, and veterans who earned some of the nation’s highest military awards including Distinguished Flying Cross Medals, Navy, and Air Force Crosses, Silver and Bronze medals for actions in combat, and Purple Heart medals for injuries sustained during war.

Of Bill Joyce, Honor Flight San Diego board member, and secretary Melanie R. Taitano said: “His life is a testament to resilience and dedication, shaped by family and military service. In July 1969, Bill’s life took a dramatic turn when he was drafted. Arriving in Vietnam in January 1970, Bill was assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Platoon, 196th Light Infantry Brigade.

“He opted to be a radio telephone operator rather than walk point, a decision that likely saved his life. Bill’s leadership qualities quickly emerged, leading to rapid promotions. He completed his 12-month tour, earning a Combat Infantryman Badge, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal.”

Regarding Woodward, Taitano noted: “Woody’s dedication to service runs deep, echoing the footsteps of his father and brother who also served in the Navy. In 1968, Woody bravely patrolled the treacherous Co Chien River as a ‘River Rat.’ Imagine the courage it took to navigate those waters in small, rigid-hulled patrol boats facing constant danger. Woody served as a 50-caliber gunner, learning the harrowing skills of war on the job, stepping in after his predecessor was tragically killed. During the Tet Offensive, Woody and his crew faced relentless enemy fire, often relying on drifting silently down the river with engines cut.

“Upon returning home, Woody grappled with the invisible wounds of war, living in his van, seeking solace in alcohol as he struggled with acute PTSD,” continued Taitano. “However, hope emerged when he discovered the Veterans Village of San Diego, a beacon of support for homeless veterans. VVSD provided Woody with the tools and support he needed to heal.”

Both Joyce and Woodward shared thoughts on their Honor Flight experience.

Joyce summed up his Honor Flight experience in one word calling it “emotional,” adding one of the best parts was “sharing memories and lots of stories.”

Joyce spent the most time at the Vietnam War Memorial, which consists of two black granite walls engraved with the names of those service members who died or remain missing as a result of their service in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Joyce etched the names of a couple of his fallen comrades.

But best of all, said Joyce, was the “mail call” veterans on the Honor Flight received on their Alaska Airlines plane during the trip.

“Everybody got letters from all over the United States from young kids, teens, older folks, and vets,” he said. “We were also handed a big sealed manila envelope with letters from home and our families including our children saying they were glad we came back. Everybody cried. There were tears everywhere.”

The Vietnam War memorial was Woodward’s favorite as well. He noted it was especially emotional for him because he “found two names that I had known of guys who passed away” with the help of some kids who found them. Woody added: “I had mixed emotions before, but the wall brought it out. I broke down. But afterward, I was glad I went. I did get closure from having the names and the etchings. It was the highlight of the trip.”

Would Woodward recommend the Honor Flight to other vets?

“Yeah, absolutely,” he said. “Especially those vets who were in combat zones. I was able to talk to some of them and I was so glad we could share our stories. I suggest any other vets going through their hardships and bad memories should make this trip. It helped me emotionally.”

HONOR FLIGHT SAN DIEGO

It is a nonprofit branch of the nationwide Honor Flight Network consisting of over 130 independent “hubs” across America. The mission is to escort veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorials using only monies donated by individuals, foundations, associations, business owners, and corporations recognizing veterans’ contributions and thanking them for their service and sacrifice.

The top priority for Honor Flight trips is given to the most senior veterans (WWII and Korea) and those with terminal illnesses. In fall 2022, the flight was opened to Vietnam veterans. It is now open to all veterans who served between 1941-1975, and veterans from any era who are terminally ill. HFSD thanks all veterans and invites them to go on a “Tour of Honor,” as well as hoping everyone else can provide a donation that will help support these memorable trips.