Honor Flight Looking for Local WWII Veterans

Do you know a World War II veteran from the Spring-Ford area? Veterans deserve to be honored for their service, and one organization wants to do just that. 

Honor Flight Philadelphia is the local chapter of a national organization that takes World War II veterans to Washington DC to visit the Iwo Jima memorial, the new World War II memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and several other memorials in the area. 

The next trip is on June 15, 2013 and there are about 15 spots left for local veterans to go. There is absolutely no cost to the veterans for any part of the trip.

Andrew Schiavello, president of Honor Flight Philadelphia, said that the US loses almost 1000 veterans per day and Honor Flight is essentially racing against time to see that those veterans get the honor they deserve. 

A typical Honor Flight trip is a full-day experience, beginning with a bus trip, a full day of visiting Washington, D.C., and the return bus trip. When the tour group arrives home, they will have a dinner and a USO show. 

Schiavello said that the tour moves at a pace comfortable for the veterans, and the Honor Flight team watches over the tour group very closely for any health concerns that might arise. Wheelchairs are available for anyone who might not be able to walk during the tour.

Honor Flight is also looking for volunteers to serve as Guardians for their trips, helping escort the tour group.

If you know a World War II veteran who would be interested in going, or you'd like to volunteer, visit www.honorflightphiladelphia.org for more information.