The President's Letter is a monthly column written by the FHSA President. It is published in our newsletter and posted here. Katie Gertz offer's insights into family history, the needs of the society, and personal reflections each month.
May President’s Letter
May 2026 President’s letter
How many of you have heard of the Honor Flight? I found this information when I asked ChatGPT:
Veterans Honor Flight (often called simply “Honor Flight”) is a nationwide nonprofit program that honors U.S. military veterans by giving them a free trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials built for their service.
What the Honor Flight Program Is
The Honor Flight Network coordinates trips from local “hubs” across the country to bring veterans—especially older or seriously ill—to see monuments like the WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam Veterans memorials.
• Started in 2005
• Has served 300,000+ veterans nationwide
• Operates through 100+ local hubs
• Trips are completely free for veterans (funded by donations)
What Happens on an Honor Flight
A typical trip is a one-day experience that includes:
• Charter flight to Washington, D.C.
• Visits to major memorials:
• WWII Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial (“The Wall”)
• Korean War Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Often Arlington National Cemetery
• Transportation by bus once in D.C.
• Meals and assistance throughout the day
Veterans are paired with volunteer “guardians” who assist them during the trip, especially those needing mobility help.
Many flights include emotional send-offs and welcome-home celebrations with crowds, flags, and cheering supporters.
Who Is Eligible
Eligibility has expanded over time. Generally includes:
• Veterans of:
• World War II
• Korean War
• Vietnam War
• Critically ill veterans from any service era
• Many hubs also accept:
• Cold War veterans
• National Guard and Reserve members
Priority is often given to the oldest or most seriously ill veterans first.
Cost
• Veterans: Free
• Guardians (companions): Usually pay a fee to cover their own costs
How to Apply
- Find your nearest Honor Flight hub (local chapter)
- Complete an application (often online or by mail)
- Provide military service documentation (like DD-214)
- Wait for selection—priority based on age/health
Veterans stay on the list until selected; no need to reapply.
How Others Can Get Involved
You don’t have to be a veteran to participate:
• Volunteer as a guardian
• Help at events or send-offs
• Donate to support flights
• Attend welcome-home ceremonies
My ex-husband recently experienced Honor Flight. We put his name on the list many years ago and perhaps he was too young to be eligible until now. What a marvelous way to honor our Veterans, especially this year as we celebrate our 250th birthday as a free nation.
There were about 35 Arizona Veterans, just as many “guardians” and several medical personnel on the trip. They spent time at all the war memorials in Washington, D.C. I’ve got some beautiful pictures to share at our next meeting. To me, the most moving part of their journey was the standing ovation they received as they walked through the airports to their departure gates, the flag-waving, cheering crowds that welcomed them to D.C and then at Sky Harbor when they were back home. And if that weren’t enough supporting gestures, while they were away from home, every veteran received a packet of “letters from home” that were written by Arizona DAR members. WOW!
For the many Viet Nam veterans among this group, this was so deserving as some of our countrymen were not so kind to our returning Viet Nam vets. So, to me, this was long overdue. I applaud those who serve our country, keeping us free as we celebrate our 250th birthday!!!
God Bless America.
Katie Gertz
FHSA President