Flight Honors Veterans With Free Trip to Washington

On Saturday, at 6:30am, a large group of veterans, primarily from WW II and the Korean War, congregated at New York Stewart International Airport, to be flown free of charge to Washington, DC to see memorials.
On Saturday, at 6:30am, a large group of veterans, primarily from WW II and the Korean War, congregated at New York Stewart International Airport, to be flown free of charge to Washington, DC to see memorials.

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEW WINDSOR – Rose Lisi did not hesitate to wake up at 5:00am Saturday; the purpose of the event she was attending had far too much significance.

Eager to get to the New York Stewart Stewart International Airport grounds with her daughter Valoree, Lisi was joining a friend, representing the American Legion Post 1796, to cheer on and support a very special group of men and women who were about to be transported to an emotionally symbolic spot. Here, military veterans- primarily from WWII and the Korean War, along with the much-deserved, first-ever Vietnam War representation, as well as those who are terminally ill- proudly made their appearance, boarding planes which would be taking them to Washington, D.C., where they could view memorials in their honor. It’s all part of a now decade long program, Hudson Valley Honor Flight, whose mission is to recognize veterans for their sacrifices and achievements through the no-charge, symbolic flying gesture. For Lisi, holding up the American Legion banner and being in the presence of such incredible individuals was highly personal.

On Saturday, at 6:30am, a large group of veterans, primarily from WW II and the Korean War, congregated at New York Stewart International Airport, to be flown free of charge to Washington, DC to see memorials. The appreciative gesture for these brave men’s’ sacrifice and service is all part of the 10 year program, Hudson Valley Honor Flight and has served over 2000 veterans.
On Saturday, at 6:30am, a large group of veterans, primarily from WW II and the Korean War, congregated at New York Stewart International Airport, to be flown free of charge to Washington, DC to see memorials. The appreciative gesture for these brave men’s’ sacrifice and service is all part of the 10 year program, Hudson Valley Honor Flight and has served over 2000 veterans.

“To see these heroes really touched a special place in my heart that brought up thoughts of my dad who served in the Korean War,” said Lisi about the experience. “There was a veteran who came off of the bus, who I saw holding back his tears, and I truly felt his pain, because it was the same pain and emotions involved with the stories- not good ones- my father shared with me about his war experiences, so I felt a real connection.”

Many of the day’s emotions included joy as well. To date, this year marks over 2,000 veterans who have had the unique opportunity to be flown to see their memorials in Washington, DC. To those who fly these heroes, it is an act they lovingly refer to as a “small token of their appreciation” and a “privilege,” allowing them to play a role in their seeing and being able to reflect at the sites of these unforgettable, prized, and moving memorials.

Hudson Valley Flights is actively accepting applications from veterans mostly of WWII and the Korean War as well as those who served between these wars. Vietnam War veterans are also considered. To learn more, call: (845) 391-0076 or visit hvhonorflight.com.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email