Mission XXIV brings together 88 veterans, two from World War II, five from the Korean War, plus others from Vietnam and later conflicts. Each veteran will travel with a trained volunteer guardian, ensuring the day is comfortable, safe, and memorable. On this trip, the group will visit the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Military Women’s Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The day kicks off before sunrise, with a spirited send-off as the veterans board their flight. When they return that night, the community can welcome them home in a big way at Punta Gorda Airport. Festivities and entertainment start at 8 p.m., but the Allegiant flight is scheduled to land at approximately 8:50 p.m. The community can show its support by wearing red, white, and blue, bringing flags and signs, and offering plenty of applause. Carpool if you can; it’s expected to be a packed event.

“This mission is about gratitude, remembrance, and honoring service,” said Naomi Horton Copeland, President of Southwest Florida Honor Flight. “For many, it’s their first time seeing the memorials dedicated to their sacrifices. The Welcome Home celebration proves their service is remembered and appreciated.”

Since 2007, Southwest Florida Honor Flight has taken over 2,300 veterans on this journey. With no big corporate sponsors, each trip, costing about $118,000 a flight, relies entirely on local donations and grassroots support. Veterans and guardians can apply year-round for future missions. Every veteran is paired with a guardian for the trip; guardians cover a small fee and spend the day supporting and honoring their assigned veteran.

The organization serves veterans from Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. Veterans who split time out of state or live elsewhere are also eligible. Priority goes to WWII, Korean War, and terminally ill veterans. Monthly info meetings happen both in-person and on Zoom. The group operates with an all-volunteer team, many of whom are veterans or have family who served.

For details on future missions, applications, or to support the program, visit www.swflhonorflight.org.

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Visit their website: swflhonorflight.org and on Facebook

Southwest Florida Honor Flight

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