Honor Flight

Honor Flight is an organization that takes veterans from World War 2 and the Korean War to visit the memorials built in their honor. The organization does this free of charge for the veterans and is supported entirely by donations. Each flight costs around $100,000. During the trip the veterans are treated as guests of honor everywhere they go. For many of the veterans this is the first time they have been able to see these memorials. They are a fantastic organization and have a chapter here in San Diego.

Mail Call

During the flight the veterans are treated to multiple surprises. Perhaps the most impactful is Mail Call. During Mail Call they are given a packet of mail with letters from their families and community members. All of these letters giving them thanks for the sacrifices they made so many years ago. The tears, the joy, and the gratitude are palpable throughout the plane.

Every fall I organize a letter drive to support Honor Flight San Diego on their fall trip. This is open to students of all grades. As a school we routinely give between 500-1,000 cards for veterans who we have never met. It is a small thing we do, but the impact is beyond measure.

Welcome Back

Perhaps the easiest way to help support Honor Flight is by attending a welcome back. Every Honor Flight ends with the veterans being surprised by around 1,000 people to cheer and greet them on their return. It is an amazing experience and to say that there will be tears is an understatement. Follow their facebook or twitter for more information about the Welcome Backs.

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