A 48-star flag from the USS Canastota was brought along on the recent Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight.

The USS Canastota served from 1943 to 1946 in the Pacific Theater, surviving a kamikaze attack and engaging submarines.

The flag represents the history and service of the ship and its crew during World War II.

It is honored at the World War II memorial during every Honor Flight.

The flag's presence at the memorial helps preserve and share the stories of the "greatest generation."

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With fewer World War II veterans left to tell their own stories, it is important to bring the flag and its significance back home.

American Legion commanders, such as Timothy Van Patten II and David Reilly, emphasize the importance of honoring veterans and spreading awareness of their sacrifices

1. The flag serves as a symbol of healing, unity, and a reminder of the generations of service.

Displaying historic items like this flag sparks curiosity and opens up conversations about the past.

While many World War II veterans have already participated in Honor Flights, efforts are still underway to provide this opportunity to a small number of remaining veterans.