News Summary
This weekend, the Texas South Plains Honor Flight is taking 81 veterans to Washington D.C. to honor their sacrifices at significant memorials. The trip, organized by volunteers and funded by community contributions, includes visits to war memorials and a hero’s welcome at the airport. This marks the organization’s 9th flight, especially meaningful since it follows a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Veterans from various service eras will participate in wreath-laying ceremonies, highlighting the importance of remembrance and recognition.
Lubbock – The latest Texas South Plains Honor Flight is touring Washington D.C. this weekend, honoring the sacrifices of veterans by visiting significant memorials dedicated to their service. Organized by dedicated volunteers, this initiative allows veterans to experience a trip to the nation’s capital at no cost, thanks to generous contributions from the community.
Today, 81 veterans boarded the flight at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport, where they were saluted by a joint honor guard that included members from the Lubbock Police Department, the Department of Public Safety, the Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office, and Lubbock Fire Rescue. The atmosphere was charged with pride and appreciation as these heroes prepared to embark on a journey filled with remembrance and recognition.
Upon arrival at Washington Dulles International Airport, the veterans received a hero’s welcome from a throng of grateful citizens of all ages. This trip, the organization’s 9th, is particularly significant as it emerges after a two-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, during which honor flights were canceled.
The itinerary is packed with visits to various war memorials, where veterans will engage in wreath-laying ceremonies. One key location on their agenda is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where they will pay tribute to the unidentified soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Another highlight of the trip includes a visit to the Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air and Space Museum.
The honor flight boasts a total of 138 individuals, including 82 veterans, 39 guardians, and 17 staff members. The veterans on this trip represent a range of service eras: 6 from the Korean War, 6 from both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, 65 from the Vietnam War, and 5 from other periods of service. It is noted that there are no World War II veterans participating this year, reflecting the aging demographic and health challenges faced by that generation.
During the flight, veterans also participated in a “mail call,” receiving letters from family members and appreciative citizens, which served to uplift their spirits and acknowledge their sacrifices. A remarkable milestone for this flight is the inclusion of staff member Staff Sgt. Xochitl Lopez, who serves as the flight’s military liaison, marking a significant moment in the flight’s history.
The organization responsible for coordinating the Honor Flight prioritizes World War II veterans, followed by veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as those in terminal health conditions, ensuring those who need recognition and respite the most receive it.
The flight is scheduled to return to Lubbock on Monday, October 13, at 7:45 p.m. on Allegiant Air Flight 4912. Community residents and supporters are encouraged to welcome the veterans back home. Updates regarding their journey can be followed on social media.
This weekend, as the veterans enjoy their time in Washington D.C., they do so with the respect and gratitude of a nation that honors their service, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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West Texas Veterans Prepare for Honor Flight Despite Challenges
Additional Resources
- KCBD: Texas South Plains Honor Flight Begins
- KCBD: South Plains Honor Flight Departs
- MSN: Tuesday Morning Top Stories
- Lubbock Online: South Plains Honor Flight
- Wikipedia: Honor Flight
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
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