Honor Flight takes area veterans to Washington, D.C.

Honor Flight of the Ozarks (via Facebook)

On Wednesday, August 13, Honor Flights of the Ozarks completed their second flight of 2025, with 79 veterans, 79 guardians/companions, and a full team of volunteers and medical staff on board. Veterans represented the Korean, Vietnam and Gulf conflicts. A full flight is normally 81 veterans, but two were unable to go due to last-minute medical concerns. Flight coordinators are thankful, however, that no other medical issues occurred on the trip in spite of the very hot weather, which did necessitate a couple of extra rest breaks. 

A large group of families and supportive community members greeted the returning veterans on Wednesday evening, even after delays leaving Washington’s Dulles Airport due to weather issues. They were also welcomed by cadets from the Willard High School NJROTC, who provided Honor Guard and Sabre Guard. Also, as part of the parade back into the airport at the end of the day, volunteers carried photos of veterans who have passed away. Family members may provide a veteran’s photo, which is placed at the appropriate memorial in Washington, DC, with a flag and the “Honoring Yesterday’s Heroes” logo. Families receive a commemorative photo of the display. 

“There were many great memories from the day,” shared one guardian via social media after accompanying his father, an 81-year-old Air Force veteran. “By far the most rewarding was to see the welcome when they returned home, especially for the Vietnam veterans, who finally received the homecoming they so much deserved.” 

One more flight is scheduled from Springfield for 2025, on October 29. Any veteran living in southwest Missouri or northwest Arkansas who served between 1940 and 1975 and received an honorable discharge is eligible. Information and applications—for veterans, guardians and volunteers—are available at www.HonorFlightoftheOzarks.org, along with details of the “Yesterday’s Heroes” program. 

Guardians who accompany veterans pay $600 to participate, but the trips are provided to veterans at no charge. To help with the trip expenses, Honor Flight of the Ozarks conducts regular fundraising events. Get your teams ready now to participate in the Sporting Clays Shootout on Saturday, September 20, hosted by Ozark Shooters Sports Complex at 759 U.S. Hwy. 65, Walnut Shade. Entry fee is $500 for a 4-person team and $125 for individuals, with awards for first, second and third place. 

Get additional details and sign-up information via the Honor Flight of the Ozarks Facebook page, put your team together, and join the fun while helping honor our heroes! And for an experience you won’t forget, mark your calendar and join the welcome home at the Springfield airport on October 29.