Central Oregon veterans welcomed home after Honor Flight

Central Oregon Daily News Staff

Local veterans were warmly welcomed back to Redmond Saturday following an Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C., where they visited memorials honoring their service and sacrifice.

Community members gathered at the airport to greet the veterans as they arrived, then joined a procession to Ridgeview High School for a Welcome Home Celebration. At the event, veterans also received honor quilts recognizing their service.

“This was bigger than I can explain. We landed, came through the airport, and people were clapping and screaming. I wasn’t ready for this,” said Chuck Towner, a Vietnam veteran.

Many of the veterans had never received a proper welcome after their service, making the event especially meaningful. Organized by Honor Flight of Central Oregon, the ceremony aimed to recognize and thank these local heroes for their sacrifices, with strong community support helping to make the day memorable.