It is our position that the nonprofit Indy Honor Flight is providing an admirable service through its mission of transporting elderly and terminally-ill Hoosier veterans to visit memorials inWashington,D.C.dedicated to honor their sacrifices.

In the inaugural flight on Sept. 10, 80 World War II veterans along with volunteers consisting of guardians, trip leaders and healthcare professionals took a day trip to see the WWII War Memorial for the first time.

They were honored with a proper “welcome home” on their return by a crowd of well-wishers with American flags, banners and signs at the Indiana National Guard that also included a mail call in which each veteran received several letters and cards thanking them for their service.

In the words of the late Will Rogers, “We can’t all be heroes, some of us need to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.” And, thanks to the volunteers of Indy Honor Flight, Hoosier veterans of our Greatest Generation are finally receiving the well-deserved recognition for fighting to preserve our freedoms.

The total cost of an honor flight is around $65,000. Donations are needed for a second honor flight. To donate, visit IndyHonorFlight.org.