It was an early start to the day on Saturday for veterans flying out to Washington, D.C. with Honor Flight Syracuse.

Eighty-one men and women serving during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War were flown out to visit memorials and monuments built in their honor.

Honor Flight Syracuse has helped over 1,000 local veterans travel to the nation’s capital at no cost since its first flight in 2012.

One volunteer says it couldn't be possible without all the help.

"The enthusiasm is terrific,” Honor Flight Syracuse head of volunteer group John Hall said. “The planning starts months ahead of time by a lot of people and we can't do it without the volunteers."

The veterans return later Saturday night with family and friends ready to welcome them back home at the airport.