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| Local vets encouraged to apply for Honor Flight |
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8/28/2015
By Tom Marshall
Senior Advocate writer
Montgomery County war veterans are being encouraged to apply for a spot on an upcoming Honor Flight.
The Honor Flight Bluegrass Chapter is currently taking applications from veterans of World War II, Korean and Vietnam wars for a free trip to Washington, D.C., Sept. 26 to attend the national war memorials.
Seventy-two veterans from the bluegrass region will be invited to participate. Top priority is given to WWII and terminally ill veterans from all wars.
State Sen. Ralph Alvarado, R-Winchester, who as a physician will provide medical services as a “guardian” on the flight, is encouraging local veterans to sign up.
He said he knows there are plenty of Montgomery County veterans who would enjoy the opportunity.
“For a lot of people it’s a life changing experience,” Alvarado said.
Guardians fly with the veterans on every flight providing assistance and helping veterans have a safe, memorable and rewarding experience. Volunteer guardians are also being sought.
Alvarado told the Advocate he is honored to participate.
He said the trip will also give veterans a chance to swap stories about their experiences in the military.
“They get to answer a lot of questions and these guys tell stories they probably haven’t told in 50, 60 or 70 years,” he said.
The flight leaves Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport about 8 a.m. and returns about 8:30 p.m. The public is invited to welcome the veterans home.
Last year there was a welcoming party of about 1,200 people and organizers said they are hoping for even more this year.
Similar trips are offered all over the country by the Honor Flight Network, a non-profit organization that relies on public sponsors.
“It is truly Honor Flight Network’s privilege to fly our heroes to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at the memorials built in their honor,” the organization posted on its website.
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