The journey of healing and closure begins for more than 100 veterans when Central Missouri Honor Flight (CMHF) No. 60 is scheduled to take off on Monday, September 23.
According to a news release, CMHF’s 60th mission departs Columbia at 1:45 a.m. and comes back to a rousing public homecoming at 9:30 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Columbia. These heroes are escorted back to the hotel by law-enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and arrive under the stars and stripes provided by the Columbia Fire Department.
A blended passenger list of veterans who proudly served the United States will be treated to a trip of a lifetime to Washington, D.C. to see the memorials dedicated to their military service. The flight will feature 110 heroes from the Korean and Vietnam Wars- flying at no cost thanks to the generosity of those who donate to this all-volunteer organization.
The veterans will enjoy a one-day tour of the WWII, Korean, Vietnam, Marine Corps, Air Force and Women in Military Service Memorials and Arlington National Cemetery. They also will witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
The public is encouraged to arrive at 8:45 p.m. to get a good view of the returning veterans and the inspirational flag ceremony in the parking lot of the Courtyard by Marriott at 3301 Lemone Industrial Drive.
CMHF has safely flown more than 4,000 veterans to the nation’s capital since the organization was founded in 2008. Since then, over $4 million in donations have been raised to make these flights happen. If you would like to contribute or apply to assist as a volunteer, go to www.centralmissourihonorflight.com for more information. It costs $300 to sponsor a veteran on the Honor Flight.