OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — The Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight continues its heartfelt mission to bring veterans to the nation’s capital free of charge — giving them the opportunity to visit the memorials built in their honor.
For each of the 67 veterans who made the journey, the trip meant something deeply personal and profoundly emotional.
A Tribute to Those Who Served
“This is a tribute to all men and women who came before us, and it’s our chance to say thank you,” said Barbara Swineford, one of the participants.
The trip of a lifetime offers a moment to honor those who served — and remember those who never returned home.
“Oh, I love this. There are some guys that didn’t come back, and I think of them all the time,” said Oscar Lee McCarter Jr.
The Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight fulfills dreams by flying veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit monuments that symbolize the courage, sacrifice, and unity of America’s armed forces.
A Journey of Honor and Healing
“The Vietnam Memorial — I’ve definitely got some dear friends on that wall,” shared Jim Talkington.
The day begins with a police escort and a private flight from Tulsa to Washington, D.C., giving veterans a hero’s welcome from start to finish.
For some, like Jim Hinebaugh, who served in Vietnam, the experience is more than a trip — it’s a step toward healing old wounds.
“I just started bawling; the tears just came. It was like being a little kid getting a gift — it overjoyed me so much. I never thought I’d get to do this,” said Hinebaugh, who had waited more than a year and a half on the Honor Flight waitlist.
A Moment of Reflection and Recognition
Throughout the day, veterans receive the recognition many never got when they first returned home.
“I was called everything under the sun and spit at. But this — this made everything better. It reminded me that my country loves me,” said Hinebaugh.
Even Representative Markwayne Mullin joined the veterans during their visit, offering words of appreciation and respect.
“They were committed to serving us before they even knew us. They protect all of our freedoms, and most of these guys would still get out there and fight if they had to,” Mullin said.
Renewed Pride and Brotherhood
By the end of the trip, many veterans described a renewed sense of pride, community, and camaraderie — and a desire to pay it forward so that every veteran can experience the same honor.
“I think it just shows your love for your country and the respect we have for this country — to be able to serve your country in this way,” said Talkington.
“It’s exciting. I would say if you’re a veteran, get on the list. You’ve got to come and do this — it will make you appreciate your service even more,” added Hinebaugh.
💫 About the Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight
The Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight is a nonprofit organization dedicated to flying veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice.
Since its founding, the program has provided free flights and guided tours for veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and beyond. Each journey serves as both a celebration and a healing experience, reminding America’s heroes that their service — and their stories — will never be forgotten.
