Eastern Iowa Honor Flight readies for 54th veterans’ trip

CEDAR RAPIDS — The Eastern Iowa Honor Flight is preparing for its 54th mission next week.

The flight from Cedar Rapids will take nearly 90 veterans who served in various wars and conflicts, as well as noncombat veterans, on a day filled with camaraderie, memorial sightseeing and surprise honors throughout Washington, D.C. The trip will include visits to the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War memorials, as well as a special wreath dedication at Arlington National Cemetery.

Since the Eastern Iowa organization began operations in 2009, 53 flights have transported about 5,000 veterans and their guardians to the nation’s capital.

The public is encouraged to help thank veterans as they return home the night of April 29 to The Eastern Iowa Airport.

“We invite the entire community to help us welcome our heroes home. Attending the ‘Welcome Home’ celebration is a meaningful way to honor these veterans,” said Eastern Iowa Honor Flight President Lynette Voss. “Your support will show our deep gratitude for their service and sacrifices. Help us give them the welcome they deserve.”

Veterans will report to the airport at 5:30 a.m. on flight day and depart about 6:45 a.m. This year’s first flight is sponsored by Quaker Oats; The Gazette is the media sponsor for the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight organization.

The Welcome Home celebration, beginning at 7:30 p.m., will feature a military band, flag line, police and fire department participation and emotional homecoming. Attendees can park at short-term and long-term parking lots for free with parking passes available at the terminal’s information booth.

The Eastern Iowa Honor Flight is volunteer run and functions without government funding, thanks to donations. To support the mission that benefits veterans in Benton, Iowa, Jasper, Jones, Johnson, Linn, Marshall, southern Tama, Poweshiek and Washington counties, visit eihonorflight.org. Donations can be submitted via check through a donation form or online via PayPal.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.