Eastern Iowa Honor Flight Taking 57th Trip

The Eastern Iowa Honor Flight is taking its 57th flight to Washington, D.C. today.

Since beginning operations in 2009, the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight has transported thousands of veterans and their guardians to the nation’s capital. The one-day trip includes visits to the World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War memorials, as well as Arlington National Cemetery for a special wreath dedication.

Despite the government shutdown, the memorials they are scheduled to visit will be opened to Honor Flights. 

Area veterans on today’s Honor Flight include Shirley Putz, Kenneth Willie and Timothy Rudd, all of Manchester; Bernard Urbain of Farley; Larry Snyder of Rowley; Roger Knipper, Jerome Lindner and Howard McDermott, all of Monticello; Edward Gehl of Anamosa; Larry Johnson of Springville; and James McGuire of Guttenberg.

The public is invited to attend tonight’s Welcome Home celebration at the Eastern Iowa Airport, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The event will feature a military band, a flag line, local police and fire department participation, and an emotional homecoming. The flight is scheduled to return to Cedar Rapids around 9 p.m. Parking in both the long-term and short-term lots is free with a parking pass, which can be picked up at the information booth inside the terminal.

photos courtesy of Eastern Iowa Honor Flight