GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO)_11News was invited to go on the third Western Slope Honor Flight. 11News Reporter Aaron Luna documented the trip. The following is part three of his coverage:

As veterans load up the plane for one last trip they leave behind memories of Iwo Jima, the World War II Memorial, Arlington, the Lincoln and Korean Memorials.

But a quiet plane ride home is the last thing anybody expects. Spirits are high, not just for the veterans but for their guardians as well.

More than 80 in all, the guardians help make sure everyone on the trip stays safe and has everything they need. Some, like Todd Haynes, even giving the flight attendants a helping hand, "Serving our nation's best, World War II vets. It's been an honor," says Haynes

And the crew of the 747 feels the same way, "It opens up your eyes to why we are here. Our freedoms, our liberties, our justices are all right here on the airplane. They've given it all to us," says flight attendant Gail Holmes.

"And in 25 years of flying it's the most memorable flight I can say that for certain it's just incredible," says Waddell.

After food service is over and everything stowed in its place the veterans get one last special surprise.

"It's real nice to get it though I'll tell you, been a long time since they had a mail call."

That's right- mail call.

Flags drawn in crayon, remnants of real flags, medals and things from family, friends and others are passed out to each veteran. "Some little kid in grade school in Grand Junction, I have know idea who they are, sounds good though."

Near the front of the plane, one veteran opens up his envelope and finds something quite unique, "That's the GI mess kit, I ate a lot of meals on that thing during the war."

The gift was enough to bring back memories and tears. "This comes from my son, one of my boys. I appreciate it very much, very."

Landing back in Grand Junction, this time to a setting sun, Honor Flight is once again greeted by local law enforcement and firefighters.

In the glare of the flashing lights veterans make their way back into the airport only to be greeted by a massive cheering crowd. The greatest generation making a second homecoming of sorts, a generation truly defining the meaning of honor.

To watch parts one and two of our of 11News' coverage of the Western Slope Honor Flight click on the attatched stories.