OAK CREEK, Wis. — Fifteen veterans, all graduates of Oak Creek High School, received a heartwarming celebration and parade at their alma mater.

This gathering took place just before their Stars and Stripes Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. on Saturday.

What You Need To Know

  • 15 Vietnam veterans received a surprise parade at their alma mater

  • 2,100 students lined the hallways to cheer for them

  • On Saturday morning, the veterans will board the Stars and Stripes Flight to Washington, D.C. with 113 Korean War veterans and 143 other Vietnam veterans
  • Organizations like Stars and Stripes have been flying local veterans since 2008, and so far, flown over 9,000 local veterans

The surprise event was highlighted by the school’s drum line, setting the rhythm for a parade that welcomed these veterans.

“It’s an honor to be here and to be met so warmly by the high school students and faculty,” said Ken Pamperin, one of the 15 veterans. “It brings back a lot of fond memories.”

As the veterans made their way through the halls, more than 2,100 students lined the corridors, cheering and waving flags.

For Vietnam veteran Mike Cain, it had been 52 years since he graduated, and he couldn’t have anticipated this warm reception.

“I wasn’t expecting this at all from the school, the band, the respect from the students here,” he said.

These veterans, all graduates between 1967 and 1973, shared more than their high school memories. They shared a profound bond forged during their service in the turbulent times of the Vietnam War.

“It’s a very special moment because of the fact that this is the high school I went to, and I told everyone inside to take care of themselves because this is what they’ll look like in 50 years,” said Pamperin.

This heartfelt welcome held profound significance, especially considering the less-than-warm welcome many veterans experienced when they returned home from the controversial war.

“It brings back a lot of memories,” said Cain. “It’s tearful.”

This reunion was not only filled with memories but also with gratitude and pride, kicking off an unforgettable weekend for these veterans as they head to the nation’s capital. This is made possible because of organizations like Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, which have been flying local veterans to Washington, D.C. since 2008.

On Saturday morning, the 15 Vietnam veterans, along with 113 Korean War veterans and 143 other veterans of the Vietnam War, will board the Stars and Stripes Flight. So far, this organization has flown over 9,000 local veterans, continuing to honor those who served the nation.