The Old Glory Honor Flight: Honoring Veterans and Changing Lives

The Old Glory Honor Flight is a remarkable initiative that aims to honor and express gratitude to military veterans by allowing them to visit Washington, D.C., and the memorials dedicated to their service. Worthington Industries, Bernzomatic Facility, had an opportunity to support this wonderful organization uniquely recently.

Raising Funds and Getting Involved:

As a member of the Worthington service committee, Diane Dorn had the privilege of participating in a fundraiser for the Old Glory Honor Flight. The committee raised funds and presented the generous contribution to Diane McDonald, Old Glory Honor Flight board member, who provided valuable information on how people can volunteer to become Guardians for the flight.? As an Army veteran, Diane felt compelled to volunteer and share this extraordinary experience with the veterans who have selflessly served our country.

As a Guardian volunteer, Diane’s role was to accompany and support the veterans throughout the trip. She and the other Guardians ensured their well-being, keeping them hydrated and cool, helping them with tasks, and carrying their extra gear. Being a part of their experience was truly indescribable, as it allowed her to see things through their eyes and understand the profound impact of their service.

It was a day filled with unforgettable memories. It began with the veterans at the Appleton International Airport at 5 a.m., as they embarked on a journey to our nation’s capital, Washington D.C., that would leave lasting impressions. Diane and her fellow Guardians escorted the veterans to iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Wall, the White House, and the Smithsonian Museum, exploring exhibits explicitly tailored for veterans. The trip's highlight was visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a profoundly moving experience.

During the Honor Flight, Diane encountered two brothers and their best friend who were in Vietnam. One of the brothers shares a granddaughter with their friend. She is currently serving in the Air Force stationed in Japan. One of the most personal and emotional moments occurred during the return flight when the veterans received mail from their loved ones. Witnessing their tearful reactions as they read heartfelt messages of pride and appreciation from loved ones and community members was genuinely touching.?

The veterans had never experienced a proper homecoming or received the respect they deserved upon returning from their service. However, this time was different. The Old Glory Honor Flight profoundly impacted them, allowing them to feel the appreciation they had longed for. The homecoming reception was emotional for everyone present, as the veterans finally experienced the respect and honor they deserved for their selfless service.

For those interested in becoming volunteer Guardians, Diane wholeheartedly recommends it as the most beneficial and fantastic experience of their lives. The opportunity to witness the memorials through the eyes of the veterans and share in their joy and gratitude is truly unforgettable. She will always treasure the memory of a particular veteran who exuded a lively and fun personality, as he selflessly wanted others to experience the same happiness he felt during the trip.

The Old Glory Honor Flight is a beautiful tribute to our military veterans, allowing them to experience the gratitude and respect they deserve. By getting involved as a volunteer or supporting the cause, we can help create life-changing moments for these heroes. Let us unite to honor their service and ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten.

If you are interested in participating as a veteran or volunteering as a Guardian, visit the Old Glory Honor Flights website for more information and registration details.

https://www.oldgloryhonorflight.org/