"When the war came along, the women rolled up their sleeves:" Twin war vets take a special flight
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Nearly 100 veterans went on the journey of a lifetime on Saturday, September 13th -- an honor flight to Washington DC.
In the early morning twilight, there was a feeling of gratitude at Mitchell International Airport.
A parade of heroes made their way through concourse D, greeted by well-wishers along the way.
Veterans from World War II, and the Korean War set to depart on an unforgettable trip.
"I'm really excited, just like I should be," said WWII veteran, Vera Kringle.
On this honor flight, something rare was found -- twin sisters Vera Kringle and Helen Debruin. 89-years-old, their journey to this point began in 1945.
"When the war came along, the women rolled up their sleeves," said Kringle.
They joined the Marines working to make sure World War II was fought and won.
"We were riveters and we worked on C46's and A25's and we were welders," Kringle said.
"It was an honor for me to serve in the Marine Corp, not everybody has that privilege," Debruin said.
On Saturday, they stopped in Washington DC, visiting monuments, sharing special moments with others who served.
"We feel it's important to honor these guys while we still have the chance," said Karyn Roelke, from the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight.
It was an emotional day, that came to an emotional end. Two sisters side-by-side, like they always have been.
There were 93 veterans on-board the honor flight, 73 were WWII veterans. There will be two other honor flights this fall.
What made the trip even more special for the twin veterans, they visited Arlington National Cemetery and saw a painting in which they're depicted in it.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Stars & Stripes Honor Flight Program -- and the upcoming fall Honor Flights.