ST. LOUIS (KTVI) — For the first time, the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight took off with an all-female crew of veterans, coinciding with Women’s Veterans Recognition Day.
“Getting recognition. That’s what I’m most proud of,” said 91-year-old Helen Kevrick, who showed up with excitement for the honor flight.
Although she’s been on an Honor Flight before, today’s event meant a lot for Kevrick.
“I’m so glad to be able to be here at my age and to be with all these other wonderful women. It’s outstanding,” Kevrick said.
This Honor Flight included 28 Vietnam-era women veterans who served during a time when their contributions were often overlooked.
“I served in the Army right out of high school—1971 to 1991,” said Diann Turner. “I wanted to go to Vietnam, but at the time, women could not go to Vietnam. Only if you were a nurse.”
Many of these veterans were visiting the memorial for the first time, reflecting on their past and reclaiming their place in history.
“As a matter of fact, I haven’t been to a walk for around for too long. I was only ever in D.C. to take training courses or something. I never had extra time to go do this,” said Susan Reyes Sauter, an Air Force Veteran.
The Vietnam Memorial, with names etched into its black granite wall, served as a poignant reminder of the lives lost, including eight American women.
This day was not only a tribute to the individual sacrifices of these women but also a celebration of their collective strength and sisterhood.
“I’m proud of my service, proud of being here with all these other women who gave their service too,” Kevrick said.
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