Hawaii's first Honor Flight brought 25 veterans back from Washington, D.C., to a hometown welcome many of them never got — a warm, feel-good moment for the islands' veteran community.

• Families, fellow veterans, and state officials filled the airport with songs, food, and hugs as the group landed after five days in D.C.
• For Vietnam veterans like Roger Ventura, the reception was the recognition they were denied when they first came home.
• On the flight back, each veteran got a "mail call" envelope stuffed with handmade cards from Hawaii schoolchildren, family, and friends.
• Organizers say hundreds more Hawaii veterans are on the waiting list for a trip.

Outlook: More flights are planned, but they depend on finding sponsors and community donations.