El Paso, Texas – On Sept. 26 the Rio Grande Honor Flight will bring a group of veterans back to El Paso International Airport, and the city is calling on the community to give them a heartfelt homecoming. The celebration, scheduled for 4 p.m. in the airport’s main lobby, is open to anyone who wishes to attend.
How residents can participate
The City of El Paso asks families to bring American flags, welcome‑home signs and personal messages of appreciation. Volunteers will help display the items and create a festive atmosphere for the veterans and their guardians.
What the Honor Flight program does
Honor Flight is a nonprofit effort that transports veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial and other sites built to honor their service. The trips are provided at no cost to the veterans; guardians volunteer their time and cover their own travel expenses.
According to the Rio Grande Honor Flight website, the next flight departs Thursday, and the program’s first mission launched in 2008 when a retired Air Force captain, Earl Morse, arranged a small‑plane ride for a handful of veterans who could not afford to see the WWII Memorial. That inaugural flight carried 12 veterans in four light aircraft and sparked the nationwide Honor Flight movement.
Local impact and support
El Paso’s invitation reflects the city’s long‑standing commitment to honoring those who have served. By gathering at the airport, residents can express gratitude, share stories, and reinforce the values of patriotism and community that bind the region together.
Local businesses and faith‑based groups have already pledged to contribute signs, refreshments and assistance with set‑up. The event also offers an opportunity for younger generations to meet veterans, hear firsthand accounts of history, and understand the sacrifices made for the freedoms they enjoy.
Previous coverage
ABC‑7 previously aired an in‑depth segment on a Rio Grande Honor Flight, featuring Chief Meteorologist “Doppler” Dave Speelman, who rode with the flight and highlighted the story of Vietnam War veteran George Want. The segment underscored the profound impact these trips have on veterans and their families.
Looking ahead
The Rio Grande Honor Flight continues to plan future trips, ensuring that more veterans from West Texas can experience the national memorials that honor their service. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the program’s website and local news outlets for updates on upcoming departures.
For more information about the welcome‑home celebration or how to get involved, please contact the City of El Paso’s community outreach office.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
