Saturday 4 May 2024

Today marked a memorable occasion at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, as MG Evon and the Connecticut National Guard hosted a heartfelt welcome for 51 veterans of the Vietnam and Korean Wars. These heroes gathered for a very special journey – an Honor Flight to Washington D.C., dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating their service to the United States.

What is Honor Flight?
Honor Flight is a profound initiative taken by the Honor Flight Network, a non-profit organization whose mission is to honor America’s veterans. They do this by transporting veterans to the nation’s capital to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifices. This experience not only serves as a public acknowledgment of their bravery and service but also provides a space for veterans to connect with each other, sharing stories and experiences from their time in service.

The Experience of Honor Flight
Each veteran participating in the Honor Flight is paired with volunteers who assist them throughout the day. The trip to D.C. is not just a visit to war memorials; it’s a day full of honor, reflection, and communal remembrance. Veterans have the opportunity to engage with fellow servicemen and women, reliving old memories and making new ones.

Honor Flight Connecticut’s Role
Established in April 2019, Honor Flight Connecticut joined the national effort as an official hub of the Honor Flight Network. This hub was specifically created to serve the military veterans of Connecticut, ensuring that heroes from the state have the opportunity to participate in these honor flights. Since its inception, Honor Flight Connecticut has worked in unison with the other 131 hubs across 45 states, sharing the unified mission of celebrating and honoring our veterans.

Participating in an Honor Flight
Veterans wishing to participate in an Honor Flight, or those looking to volunteer or donate, can find more information through the Honor Flight Connecticut website. Flights depart from and return to Bradley International Airport, which offers comprehensive facilities to accommodate the veterans and ensure their trip starts and ends comfortably.

Continuing the Legacy
The work of Honor Flight is crucial in keeping the stories and sacrifices of our veterans alive. By visiting memorials, sharing their stories, and receiving the nation’s gratitude, veterans are reminded that their service is deeply appreciated and will never be forgotten.

Learn More and Get Involved
For those interested in supporting this noble cause, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply learning more about the Honor Flight program and its significant impact on veterans’ lives, detailed information is available at www.HonorFlight.org. Additionally, Bradley International Airport’s website provides all necessary travel information for those attending or sending off flights.

Today’s event at Bradley International Airport is more than just a trip; it’s a testament to the enduring respect and gratitude we hold for those who have served. It is through initiatives like Honor Flight Connecticut that we continue to honor our heroes, ensuring their legacies are preserved and celebrated across generations.