On September 15, the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight lifted off from Flint Bishop Airport, beginning Mission 27 that would carry 75 veterans and their guardians to Washington, D.C. The nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers and funded by donations, provides a once‑in‑a‑lifetime trip to honor those who served in Vietnam, the Korean War and World War II.
Veterans and guardians on board
The flight included 68 Vietnam veterans, five Korean War veterans and two World II servicemen, all hailing from the Mid‑Michigan region. Many of the Vietnam veterans are now in their 80s, having been just 19 years old when they first went to war. Guardians—family members or close friends—accompanied each veteran, sharing in the emotional journey.
“You have to look back at it as part of history now,” said John Swenson, a participant, reflecting on the significance of the trip. “You don’t know what you’re getting into,” he added, underscoring the mixture of anticipation and reverence that accompanied the group.
Why the honor flight matters
Bob Green, president of the Mid‑Michigan Honor Flight, explained the mission’s purpose: “A lot of the Vietnam, Korean War and World II veterans feel they served and nobody really cares. This is our way of proving to them that people do care about their service.” The organization’s goal is to remind veterans that their sacrifice will never be forgotten and to give them a tangible expression of gratitude from the community.
For many, the experience was profoundly moving. Ron Cheryl, a veteran from Lapeer, described the moment the group waved the Stars and Stripes as “awestruck” and said, “I will never forget it.” The flight culminated with a visit to the nation’s capital, where veterans toured historic sites and met with officials, reinforcing the nation’s recognition of their contributions.
Funding and future flights
The Mid‑Michigan Honor Flight relies entirely on private donations; each flight costs roughly $160,000. The organization operates four missions per year and currently has a waitlist of more than 1,100 Vietnam veterans eager for the opportunity. Volunteers, including many of the guardians traveling with the veterans, handle all aspects of the operation, from planning to on‑site support.
Community members who wish to support the cause can apply to become a guardian or donate directly through the organization’s website, MidMichiganHonorFlight.org. By contributing, residents help ensure that future generations of veterans receive the heartfelt acknowledgment they deserve.
Local impact
The honor flight not only honors individual service members but also strengthens the fabric of Mid‑Michigan communities. It showcases the power of local nonprofit action, volunteerism, and charitable giving to address the needs of those who have given so much for the nation.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
