Thursday, October 9, 2014

Story County Freedom Flight 2014 - October 7, 2014

The 2014 Honor Flight is appropriately named as all Veterans included felt truly "honored" and esteemed.  A packed 20 hour day handled with care, planning and near precision.  Flying to our Nation's Capital to view, reminisce, and honor the thousands of our "Comrades in Arms" who paid the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.
From the stately memorials of Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson to those erected in our lifetime which included the large WWII Memorial, the Korean Rice Paddie Enlarged Men Statues, the Vietnam Wall, the Navy and the newest Air Force Monument, we attempted to ingest all the symbolism, and grandeur of those amazing memorials.  So much to absorb and so little time, but our hearts and minds overflowed with "raw emotion" and "thankfulness" for the bravery, valor and sacrifice given by so many!  A day forever remembered with eternal gratitude for the many that contributed resources, time and talent to make this a special day of delight and true honor.  With my deepest appreciation.  Norm Luiken LCDR-USNR

Boarding the Plane to Washington, DC
Charter Flight to D.C.
Found a seat with previous known Vets

In 2 hrs we arrived in DC and loaded several buses
Ever present Washington Monument
First stop Arlington Cemetary

Changing of the Guard at Arlington
Followed by a wreath presentation
Next stop, WWII Memorial
In memory of the Iowa men who served in WWII
Korean War Memorial
Unto the newer Air Force Memorial
Norm at the Air Force Memorial
Norm with Navy Sailor
Navy Chaplain conducting services on the main deck
Norm by the Reflecting Pool
Iwo Jima
Group picture 148 Story Co Veterans at Iwo Jima
Jefferson Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
Washington Memorial Reflecting Pool
Our Tour Bus in Washington, DC
Welcome Home - American Flag on overpass on I35



















Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Happy 16th Birthday, Sarah

On September 22nd we celebrated Sarah's 16th birthday by traveling to Texas to be with family.  On Saturday evening, Sept. 26 she entertained several of her friends for her 16th Birthday.  A fun evening was enjoyed by all in attendance.

Party Set Up

Mom and Emma

Our Birthday Girl

Happy 16th Birthday, Sarah

Kids playing games

Emma, Maggie and Sarah

Levi and Luiken

Emma Studying Hard