In mid September, High Plains Honor Flight organization hosted 120 veterans from WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War to visit the military memorials in Washington D.C. during a two day expense paid trip. For some, the trip is a healing process and for all, an appreciation for serving in one of those conflicts.
The Honor Flight recipients met at the Embassy Suites to be greeted by dignitaries, other veterans, past Honor Flight recipients, military personnel, first responders, veteran biker clubs, and their families. It can be an over whelming experience as over 800 people attend the annual send-off ceremony. After an introduction by radio personality Brian Gary, color guard presentation, and a prayer, the Honor Flight recipients board the four buses escorted by several First Responder agencies including Colorado State Patrol, Larimer County Sheriff, Loveland Police, several medivac helicopters, several veteran biker clubs, and other veterans to Denver International Airport (DIA). Along the way, the caravan of buses and escorts are greeted by many fans waving flags through the Mile of Smiles I-25 corridor.
The 120 Honor Flight recipients and their 60 guardians visit multiple military memorials in Washington D.C. including Arlington National Cemetery, WWII, Korean, and Vietnam War Memorials, and other memorials before returning to DIA and finally back to Embassy Suites, where they are welcomed by many veterans and their families. The Honor Flight recipients are overwhelmed by the entire experience and give thanks to the Honor Flight organization upon returning.
Thanks to the High Plains Honor Flight volunteers and gracious donors for continuing the legacy that Col. Stan Cass and his team started ten years ago. Over 3,000 Honor Flight recipients have visited the Washington memorials. If you know of any WWII, Korean, or Vietnam War veterans or Purple Heart recipients, who haven’t made this wonderful trip, please visit their website at www.highplainshonorflight.org for details.