Hawaiian Islands Honor Flight brought 25 veterans to Washington, a warm and overdue moment of thanks for men who served decades ago.

• The group landed in the capital and was escorted through the airports by an honor guard.
• Travelers stopped to cheer and applaud as the veterans walked to their bus.
• One Vietnam veteran said he did not expect the rush of emotion, and spoke of friends who never came home.
• The trip includes the Vietnam Memorial, where veterans can etch the name of a fallen comrade, plus Arlington National Cemetery.

Outlook: The veterans continue their memorial visits over the coming days before heading home to Hawaii.