Madison – Badger Honor Flight wrapped up its last 2026 mission on Saturday, returning 87 local veterans home after a day in Washington, D.C. With the year’s flights concluding, the organization announced it will broaden its eligibility to include veterans who served through the Desert Storm era.
Expanded eligibility dates
Effective immediately, Badger Honor Flight will accept applications from veterans who served between Dec. 7, 1941 and July 31, 1991, regardless of whether they served overseas or saw combat. The change opens the program to a new generation of veterans, with the first expanded‑eligibility flights slated for 2027.
Veterans share personal impact
Navy veteran Cathy Andrews, who served aboard a hospital ship in Vietnam, described her 2024 flight as one of the most meaningful experiences of her life. She recalled caring for a wounded Marine who, despite severe injuries, kept his sense of humor. Andrews also noted that women’s service has not always been fully recognized; during her flight a fellow passenger questioned her wearing the veteran‑designated red shirt.
Andrews said the trip allowed her to reconnect with her military past and share stories with her daughter, who accompanied her. She now volunteers with Badger Honor Flight and encourages other veterans to apply, emphasizing that every role contributes to the mission, whether or not it involved combat.
Volunteer perspective
Long‑time volunteer Phil Ingwell, a former Army and Air National Guard member, recalled how many Vietnam veterans felt overlooked when they first returned home. He shared a letter from a veteran who wrote that “64 years of anger disappeared after being welcomed home.” Ingwell himself hesitated to sign up for a flight because he never served in a war zone, but a friend’s encouragement led him to apply, hoping to share the experience with fellow veterans.
How to apply
Veterans interested in the expanded program can learn more and submit applications at badgerhonorflight.org. The organization continues to rely on community support and volunteers to make these homecoming trips possible.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
