On April 14 at the Dayton International Airport more than 110 veterans across the area will be returning from their visit to our nation’s capital.
The veterans will have visited Washington, D.C. to see monuments with incredible impedance to them. Some of these veterans fought in wars like the Vietnam War, World War Two, and the Korean War.
These veterans do not know that when they return to Dayton International Airport, they will be greeted by nearly 700 patriots cheering them on and welcoming them home.
Often Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, JROTC, from all over southern Ohio come in large details saluting them with color guards and banners.
Local Boy Scout Troops come dressed in their uniforms, and a group, the Patriot Pin Up Girls, come wearing outfits that are themed around the 1950’s era.
The Honor Flight program has existed for 13 years this year. It began with Earl Morse, a retired pilot and physician, who realized many of his patients were dying without getting recognized for their service. He proposed the idea of an honor flight and the rest is history. Today the program is nationwide.
Many veterans who go on these trips have memories of awful homecomings. Many were spit on, called names, and sometimes even physically attacked. Many veterans would choose not to wear their uniform home for fear of protest. This program gives them a second, more uplifting, welcome home.
While they are gone they spend one day visiting their memorials for the very first time. This event though needs help. Many veterans needs pushed in wheelchairs or help carrying oxygen tanks. The event is open to “guardians.” Visit the website at the bottom of this article to get more specific information on volunteering for this position.
The program works hard to get support there the night of their return for big welcome homes. Often times, some people cannot attend because the event occurs late into the night.
One way you can support is by donating money. The program is completely free to all the veterans attending.
If you know a veteran who has served you can also submit names for people to attend these trips. Veterans who are terminally ill are given top priority, then it is first come first serve.
If you are curious about what veterans do while away on this trip you can visit honorflightdayton.org to get more information.
If you are interested in supporting at one of these events, the next honor flight is April 14 at 10:00 p.m. The program encourages attendees to come bearing banners, signs, and wearing red, white and blue outfits.
There are more honor flights scheduled as well for the 2018 year. All events are at 10:00 p.m. at Dayton International Airport and occur as follows: April 14, May 19, Sept. 8, and Oct. 27.
Kelsey Fitzpatrick
Reporter