A Southwest Airlines announcement turned an airport arrival into a public salute for 53 veterans.
According to @davidjharrisjr on Instagram, an Honor Flight carrying 53 veterans landed and drew a cheering welcome from people at the airport. The veterans were described as being of varying ages and mobility levels as they exited the plane.
David J. Harris Jr. says the moment showed how touched the veterans were by what it called a simple but powerful gesture. It also said Coffey Anderson’s song “Mr. Red White and Blue” played as the group arrived.
The reaction continued online, where the source text said thousands of people in the comment section shared their feelings about the welcome.
“How we should ALWAYS treat our veterans,” one commenter wrote.
Another added, “It’s the homecoming these Vietnam vets should have gotten the first time they came home.”
A military wife also commented about her husband’s experience after service.
“We owe them a huge debt of gratitude. My husband came home injured with no fanfare. He would serve again if he could!” she wrote.
Anderson also responded to the video and said he was glad his music was part of the veterans’ arrival.
“Thank y’all for using my song, Mr. Red White and Blue” for this video. Patriotism isn’t going anywhere! We love and honor ALL those that served. All gave some. Some gave all,” he wrote.
The source text described veterans as a group that deserves thanks and support, noting that military service often means long periods away from family and friends and, for some, never coming home.
The airport welcome came after Southwest Airlines announced the Honor Flight was arriving with 53 veterans on board.
📸 credit: davidjharrisjr
