Honor Flight honors veterans

About 75 World War II veterans from Eastern Iowa flew Tuesday to Washington D.C. to visit the memorial built in their honor and dedicated in May 2004. Most of them never would have made the trip if not for the Honor Flight Network.

This organization of veterans, volunteers and businesses has been a dream come true for more than 40,000 WWII veterans so far. Today, Veterans Day 2009, we salute all veterans.

It's also appropriate to recognize Honor Flight for its mission and achievements.

The idea of providing a cost-free trip for veterans wanting to visit their national memorial was born in Springfield, Ohio. Earl Morse, a physician assistant and retired Air Force captain, wanted to honor the veterans he had cared for more than a quarter century. He convinced several private pilots to join his cause. In May 2005, six small planes with 12 veterans flew to Washington, D.C., and Honor Flight was born.

A total of 137 veterans were served that first year. Word spread and the program grew quickly.

By 2008, the number served that year soared to 11,137.

By the end of this year, the goal is another 25,000 with the grand total reaching more than 42,000.

Since its creation, the network has added hubs in more than 30 states, including five in Iowa. Southwest and Pace airlines became major participants. A program that uses idled aircraft to transport veterans was created. Resources across the nation have been pooled.

The response to Honor Flight reminds us of our nation's immense, collective action during WWII - a call for every citizen to assist our military in its fight against the threats to freedom around the world.

Honor Flight is a fitting, wonderful way to recognize WWII veterans both living and deceased. More than 16 million Americans served in the U.S. armed forces during WWII. More than 2 million are still living, but their time is fast running out - nearly 1,000 die every day.

Honor Flight leaders feel a sense of urgency. They want to serve all veterans who want to visit the memorial but can't do it on their own because of financial or physical limitations. And after WWII veterans have been served, Honor Flight wants to do the same for those who served in Korea and Vietnam.

Honor Flight's mission is ambitious and ongoing. It requires regular support from individuals and companies large and small. And it is deserving of whatever support each of us can muster as a thank you to those who have served our nation.

How to help

For more information about Honor Flight Network or to make a donation:

Visit www.honorflight.org/

Write to Honor Flight Inc., Attn: Tom O'Neal, 300 E. Auburn Ave., Springfield, Ohio 45505