Pictured are John (Bob) Tanner, Wes Pearson and Bob Canniff on April 29 prior to a Vets Finding Vets Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C.

The Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight of April 30 to Washington, D.C., was a success for three local veterans.

The Honor Flight normally takes World War II veterans and veterans with health issues first, but then there were no flights at all for 18 months during the COVID -19 pandemic.

John (Bob) Tanner of Bemus Point, who was in the U.S. Army during the war in Korea, enjoyed everything during the trip so it was hard to choose his favorite moment. In the end, the WWII Memorial was the most special to him for the beautiful fountains in the reflecting pool and how many special parts there are within the memorial. He was also very fond of the artist’s work on the metal soldier sculptures in the Korea Memorial, as they always seem to be looking at you and seem so real. The Women’s Memorial was also very high on his list, especially in the tribute to nurses found there.

Bob Canniff of Randolph was in the Air Force during Vietnam, and so — not surprisingly — his favorite memorial was the Air Force Memorial. He explained that he was a welder by trade, and was most impressed with the three huge stainless steel spires bending in different directions. He was especially touched by the two wreath-laying ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He will be making sure his Veteran friends are aware that an Honor Flight is a wonderful trip.

Jamestown resident Wes Pearson, John’s son-in-law, was in the Army during Vietnam. He was especially thrilled that the weather was so sunny and nice that it made the trip even more special. He was very taken with the Air Force Memorial, the very tall spires, and the statues of the four Airmen standing in front of the Memorial Wall. Most touching was receiving a large envelope filled with cards from family, friends, children and strangers. Knowing that they took the time to write a card for a veteran was overwhelming. He added that if any veteran thinks their service is unappreciated, this one day will change their mind forever.

“Recruiting” has already begun for the fall flight, and Vets Finding Vets Project coordinator Barb Cessna is happy to help veterans with the application process. Vets Finding Vets, a Fenton History Center program, is partially funded through the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. For any questions about the process, please call Cessna at 716-664-6256.