Southern Wisconsin Hy‑Vee stores gathered Wednesday evening to present a $100,000 check to Badger Honor Flight, just days before the organization’s final mission of 2026. The fundraising effort involved six stores – in Janesville, Oregon, Fitchburg, Ripon and two in Madison – and was driven by customer donations, partnerships with local vendors and in‑store events.
Store staff lead the push
Evan Oraskovich, store director of the East Madison Hy‑Vee, explained that each store set its own fundraising goal and encouraged employees to get involved. “We took a dollar from that steak‑night dinner and put it towards our Badger Honor Flight,” he said, describing a weekly fundraiser that helped reach the $100,000 target.
Oraskovich added that the campaign became “fun, engaging, and just a great environment to raise money,” noting the collaboration with vendors throughout the community. The check presentation was an emotional moment for everyone involved, with Oraskovich saying, “It’s rewarding. It’s exciting. It makes you feel really good. You’ve got a lot of pride.”
Veterans’ final 2026 flight
Badger Honor Flight will sponsor a Saturday trip for 87 local veterans who served from World War II through Desert Storm. The veterans will travel from Madison to Washington, D.C., visiting memorials built in their honor, with all expenses covered. Store directors from West Madison and Janesville will also board the flight, having led the fundraising effort at their locations.
The organization is expanding eligibility to include Desert Storm‑era veterans, accepting applications from those who served between Dec. 7, 1941, and July 31, 1991, regardless of combat status. Saturday’s flight marks the final Badger Honor Flight mission of 2026, though fundraising will continue to support future trips.
Community partners join the cause
Other local businesses and groups contributed to the effort, including The Pub at Pleasant Springs, Waunahops and the Oregon Sportsmen’s Club. Their support underscores the broad community commitment to honoring Wisconsin’s veterans.
Hy‑Vee’s involvement represents the first time the grocery chain has sponsored an Honor Flight in Wisconsin, highlighting the retailer’s dedication to community service and veteran support. The successful campaign demonstrates how local businesses, employees and residents can unite to make a meaningful impact for those who have served the nation.
Looking ahead
Badger Honor Flight plans to keep raising funds throughout the year to ensure future veterans can experience the same honor and gratitude. The organization encourages continued donations from individuals, businesses and community groups, emphasizing that every contribution helps preserve the legacy of Wisconsin’s military heroes.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
