Eastern Iowa Honor Flight prepares for 52nd veterans trip

CEDAR RAPIDS — The 52nd trip of the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight to Washington and back is preparing to launch Tuesday.

The flight will take another group of veterans who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War, as well as noncombat veterans, on a day filled with camaraderie, memorial sightseeing and surprise honors throughout Washington, D.C. Since the Eastern Iowa organization began operations in 2009, 51 flights have transported nearly 5,000 veterans and their guardians to the nation’s capital.

“Many flight veterans were never properly thanked when they came home from their service. Now, as a community, we have the chance to change that,” said Lynette Voss, Eastern Iowa Honor Flight president. “Our mission is to give them an unforgettable day, complete with a 'Welcome Home' celebration to show our appreciation for their sacrifices.”

Veterans will report for the trip starting at 5:45 a.m. Tuesday at The Eastern Iowa Airport and will return later in the evening. The community is encouraged to welcome them home with a celebration at the airport starting at 7:30 p.m., just ahead of the flight’s planned 9 p.m. landing.

The emotion-filled homecoming will include a military band, flag line and local police and fire departments. Parking in both long-term and short-term lots at the airport is free for attendees with parking passes available at the terminal’s information booth.

The Eastern Iowa Honor Flight, entirely volunteer run, 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.