Nearly 100 veterans will be flying to the nation’s capital this week.

A press release says after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, Central Missouri Honor Flight (CMHF) will make its return.

CMHF No. 62 leaves Columbia at 2 a.m. Monday, May 9, with 95 veterans on board—for a trip of a lifetime and a journey of closure.

Area residents are encouraged to attend the Homecoming Monday night. Weary veterans look forward to being greeted by a cheering crowd welcoming them home when they return to Columbia.

Local and state dignitaries may be in attendance for the Homecoming of at 9:30 Monday night at Columbia Courtyard by Marriott.

Three Central Missouri Honor Flight buses will be escorted along I-70 from Kingdom City to Columbia by law enforcement and a large contingency of motorcyclists as part of the Central Missouri Honor Flight Riders.

The veterans will enter the hotel by way of the inspirational “Walk of Honor” after their names are announced.

Organizers say, “We are hoping for a large crowd cheering on the veterans and waving flags and banners.”