The purpose of the Badger Honor Flight is to ensure that veterans have the opportunity to see the nation’s memorials that have been erected in their honor. All amenities are provided for the veterans during this flight, including all transportation, meals and lodging. Since their first flight in 2010 Badger Honor Flight has continued to make available a life changing experience to those who have survived their country; in WWII and Vietnam. In addition these veterans are encouraged to bring family members to share in the experience. Those family members who are not part of the flight itself are invited to a welcoming ceremony upon the return of the flight.
During this ceremony thousands of supporters rally together to
welcome veterans and to thank them for their service. I was personally able to attend the ceremony and
was blown away by the emotional reaction of not only the family but the
veterans themselves. For many this was the first time they were able to talk
about their experience and to receive the thank you they deserved. Despite the government
shutdown that began weeks before hand the flight scheduled on October 19,
2013 went as planned. The turnout was
the largest volunteers had seen in years.
Definitely a humbling experience for outsiders and one that I recommend
to others, especially those whose loved ones have served or a serving.
-Alycia Richburg
