The Greater Peoria Honor Flight program soars into its fourth year in 2016, flying out our military veterans to view their war memorials in Washington, D.C. at no cost to the vets. Funds for the flights come solely through fundraisers and donations. It’s an all volunteer operation that I’ve been a fan of since its inception.
I was lucky enough to be one of two media members who flew out with the first group of veterans in June of 2013. It’s a whirlwind, long, one-day trip – but also long on memorable, emotional moments – that gets going with a 6 am flight out of Peoria International Airport.
Our flight was greeted in D.C. by a water cannon salute on the tarmac, then applause when we arrived inside the terminal. The 70+ plus veterans were mostly from World War II, but some Korean and Vietnam vets were aboard, too, and they all enjoyed a nice response at each stop. We viewed four or five of the war memorials and also saw the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery.
A heroes welcome greeted the veterans upon arrival around 10 pm back in Peoria, attended by an over flow crowd of over 3,000 with bands and cheerleaders. I felt unworthy to be in the veterans line as we snaked through the flag-waving, sign-holding admirers. One of the best moments of my broadcast career.
So, support this group and keep the flights a flyin’! Every Saturday from now until April 16 from 11 am – 2 pm at Pottstown Meat & Deli in the Metro Center in Peoria, volunteers will be selling tickets for you to win a side of beef from Pottstown (or $1,000 in gift cards from them). They’re $20 a ticket or 3 three for $50. All proceeds send our heroes to D.C.!
Doc Watson
