We’re honored to share another beautiful poem written by Chuck Russell, a veteran from Lake County Honor Flight 27. Chuck has a gift with words, and we’re grateful he chose to share this piece with us and with all of you. Thank you, Chuck, for your service! Make it home It was 1969 when I came to grips Realizing Vietnam for me really does exist Halfway around the world and feeling bold It was a crazy time being 20 years old Just doing my job and trying to stay in a bubble Gave a whole new meaning to try to stay out of trouble But trouble, I’m afraid, made it quite clear I just might not make it home from here Lots of guys didn’t I’m so sad to say And lots of us dusted ourselves off for another day Turned 21 years of age late that year Still wondering if I can make it home from here There were times that it got so intense You were too busy to make much sense Only after it was over did in creep the fear I don’t think I’m gonna make it home from here May 10th, 1970 turned out to be a difficult night Wounded, but alive, it was after the fight They hit and ran, vanished, no longer near Can I really make it home from here? Well, they patched me up and said I had to stay Got a job pushing papers to fill my day Almost 22 by the time I got back Home was so different, I can tell you that Been over 50 years now and I’m willing to bet I’ll still wake up sometimes in a cold sweat Can’t remember exactly what gave me a scare But wonder if I ever made it home from there Chuck Russell Vietnam, Central Highlands C Co. 704th Maintenance Battalion 4th Infantry Division #LakeCountyHonorFlight #Flight27 #VeteranVoices #GratefulNation (fb)

🎥 A special moment from Rob Study’s 90th birthday celebration! Los Chinelos brought energy, color, and joy to the day with their vibrant traditional dance! #LakeCountyHonorFlight#9 (fb)