Why Honor Flight?

The World War II Memorial in Washington DC was completed and dedicated in May 2004.  It is a long overdue “Thank You” to the men and women who sacrificed so much for our freedom, and a memorial to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  It was so long overdue that many WWII survivors have been unable to visit their memorial due to the barriers of advanced age, such as health matters, stamina, finances, or other travel impediments. Honor Flight provides a way for many of these veterans to visit and reflect at their memorial.

WWII veterans pay nothing for this trip.  They have given enough.  Honor Flights are funded by community donations from generous individuals, corporations, foundations, and other groups who wish to be an important part of honoring these heroes.  The cost is also defrayed in part by Honor Flight volunteer “guardians,” who donate the cost of their own airfare in order to honor veterans in a very personal way, escorting them and being there to help as needed throughout the day.

The immediate focus of the Honor Flight Network will remain on WWII veterans and those veterans from any war that have a terminal illness; however, the vision goes beyond WWII.  In the future, Honor Flight plans to pay tribute to America's other heroes that served during the Korean and Vietnam wars, followed by veterans of more current wars. They too have given much and it is time to show them that their efforts will not be forgotten.