Oklahoma's Own: Tulsa Vet Prepares For Honor Flight

On Wednesday, more than 100 veterans will leave Tulsa on an honor flight to Washington DC to see the World War II Memorial.

It's a meaningful journey for the aging veterans, who went through so much for our country.

Richard Frisby is looking forward to a trip he's taking to Washington this week. He's one of more than 100 other aging veterans going on an Oklahoma Honor Flight to Washington to see the World War II Memorial.

"We lose a bunch every day," Frisby said, "I'll be 90 in June."

More than 500 Oklahoma veterans have gone on the honor flights so far. Frisby is ready for his chance.

"I've been looking forward to it for two years now," he said.

Richard Frisby joined the Army in 1940 as a Private and was sent to Europe.

"I got in the Army and it paid 21 dollars a month and I thought I was real lucky," he said.

Despite the dangers, he became a career military man, serving 30 years -- which also meant in addition to the European theater, he had combat tours in Korea and Vietnam.

"It was an honor to serve; it really was," Frisby said. "I enjoyed the military and I hated to even retire."

After retiring as a Command Sergeant Major, Frisby came to Tulsa as a building inspector -- and stayed.

The Honor Flight leaving Tulsa this week will be the 6th one from Oklahoma. Five more are scheduled for this year, including one leaving Oklahoma City on D-Day.

Frisby is grateful for the opportunity, and proud of his military service.

"I just feel like I'm just so lucky, and fortunate that I was there, and went through it and here I am today," he said. "It's a real good feeling."

Three wars, two kids, one marriage of 70 years. He has grandkids and great grand children but one special trip yet to be taken.

There will be a send-off program Tuesday evening at 6:30 at the Spirit Event Center in Bixby. Nearly 600 veterans are still on the waiting list.