Kiwanis Club of Manassas Supports Honor Flight

by John Beere

The Kiwanis Club of Manassas has found a wonderful way to show our appreciation to our World War II veterans. We have been participating as volunteers with the Honor Flight Network (www.honorflight.org). The mission of this organization is to fly America's veterans to Washington, DC to visit those memorials dedicated to honor the service and sacrifices of themselves and their friends.

In our first venture in April, two of our members served as "greeters" for an incoming flight of over 100 veterans from Mason City, Iowa at Dulles Airport. You can see a short video of that reception at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttXF8REKwx0 This was such a rewarding experience beyond description.

In the past week we've supported two more tours. Three members greeted another flight of 100+ veterans from LaCrosse, Wisconsin and two other members served as "guardians" for a group of 21 vets from St. Louis. As a guardian you stay with the group for the entire day as they visit the World War II Memorial, Iwo Jima Memorial, Arlington Cemetery and other sights in DC. These two Kiwanians had a twelve hour day and managed to keep up with the aging vets. They even had one veteran who was 100 years old on the tour.

You can find more information on the Honor Flight web site. Not only is there an opportunity to volunteer but they can use financial support as well. They will not take any money from the veterans. All their funding comes from sponsors and donations.

If you do not find what you're looking for, contact John Beere at johnbeere@hotmail.com. With only 1.5 million still living of the 6 million veterans who served in WW-II, their time is running out. It's estimated that 900 die per day. They gave years of their lives to serve and protect our country; won't you give a few hours to show your appreciation?