LANSING - It was a patriotic occasion as a crowd of over 150 gathered to pay tribute and give thanks to Michigan Veterans.

63 is the number of smiling faces that returned home from a Mid- Michigan Honor Flight from Washington ,D.C.

Police, Fire Fighters, the Honor Guard,other military, plus family, friends, and loved ones gathered in support of their local heroes.

When the men and women arrived in the airport a bagpipper escorted them all the way to the door.

From there, the Eaton County Sheriffs were waiting to escort them all the way to Michigan State University where the honorees would stay.

MSU was their host and provided all of their meals and transportation to and from the airport.

Tricia Donegan, hub director for Mid-Michigan Honor flight
states, "The Veterans are not used to this much attention."

"They truly enjoyed and cherished the moment."

Another attendee, Trisha Passini came to pay her respect with American flags in hand even passing out a few out to others.

" These men and women sacrificed their lives for us and for that I am truly grateful", says Passini.

"They are loved."

Mid-Michigan Honor Flight Board Member, Gary Wendlowsky mentions this event allowed many men and women the opportunity to see their memorials and monuments that were built for them.

"It is a great day, a day they will always remember."

For more information on Mid-Michigan Honor Flight go to www.midmichiganflight.com.

Veterans or their families can also email info@midmichiganhonorflight.com .