Colorado Springs – In a heart‑warming display of community generosity, the Honor Flight of Southern Colorado dispatched its largest ever group of veterans to the nation’s capital on Saturday morning. Thanks to more than $86,000 raised during KRKR13’s spring‑time telethon, the chapter was able to charter a plane directly from Colorado Springs Airport, a first for the organization.
The flight carried 153 individuals in total, including a record‑setting 86 veterans who will visit the World War II, Korean War, Vietnam, and Gulf War memorials on the National Mall. The trip provides a free, all‑expenses‑paid journey that many of these service members never received when they returned home.
Community support makes the difference
The telethon, hosted by KRKR13 last April, drew an outpouring of donations from viewers across the region. The $86,000 raised not only covered the cost of the charter flight but also allowed the chapter to keep a previously planned Denver trip on the schedule for other veterans, demonstrating the power of local philanthropy.
“We are humbled by the generosity of our neighbors,” said Honor Flight of Southern Colorado volunteer coordinator Maria Lopez. “Their contributions mean that these brave men and women can finally experience the hero’s welcome they deserve.”
Veterans and media join the journey
KRKR13 morning anchor Josh Helmuth and chief photographer Chappin Everett accompanied the crew to document the experience. Their coverage will highlight the emotional reunions, the solemn moments at the memorials, and the camaraderie among the veterans.
Veteran James “Jim” Martinez, a former Army infantryman, expressed his gratitude: “I never imagined I’d get to stand on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and see the flag flying over the Capitol. This trip is a gift to my whole family.”
Honor Flight’s mission and impact
Honor Flight is a nationwide nonprofit that arranges free trips for veterans to Washington, D.C., so they can pay respects at the monuments that honor their service. The organization relies on volunteers, donations, and partnerships with airlines and hotels to keep costs at zero for participants.
Since its inception, Honor Flight of Southern Colorado has facilitated more than 500 trips, reaching veterans from all branches of the armed forces. The record‑setting 86‑veteran flight underscores the growing demand for these experiences and the community’s willingness to meet that need.
Looking ahead
The chapter plans to continue its fundraising efforts throughout the year, with another telethon slated for early 2027. Organizers hope to expand the program to include additional support services, such as transportation to local memorials and post‑trip counseling.
For those interested in contributing, donations can be made through the Honor Flight of Southern Colorado website or directly via KRKR13’s fundraising portal.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
