By Jennifer Conrad, Managing Editor
Since 2009, Honor Flight Arizona has served as a powerful force for gratitude, allowing Arizona veterans to experience a journey of recognition and healing. This nonprofit organization is part of the National Honor Flight Network, transporting over 300,000 veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials that honor their service. Honor Flight Arizona has proudly facilitated these life-changing trips for over 3,000 veterans, ensuring that the sacrifices of World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam veterans are never forgotten.
The organization was started in 2008 by Susan Howe, inspired by her experience accompanying her father, a B-24 nose gunner, on an Honor Flight from Ohio. Susan quickly took action, completing the necessary paperwork, forming the first Honor Flight Arizona board, and initiating fundraising efforts. The inaugural flight in November 2009 carried 12 veterans, marking the first Honor Flight west of the Mississippi.
For many veterans, these trips represent more than a visit to historic landmarks—they are an opportunity to share their stories, connect with others, and feel the appreciation of a grateful nation. Karen Keogh-Friddle, a dedicated board member of 11 years, speaks passionately about this mission:
“When you see a veteran, thank them for their service. If it’s a Vietnam veteran, say, ‘Welcome home.’ They truly appreciate it.”
A Journey That Brings Stories to Life
Every honor flight is a meticulously crafted experience designed to honor and celebrate veterans while creating a platform for their voices to be heard. Over three days and two nights, participants visit iconic memorials such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery for the Changing of the Guard. Stops at the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force Memorials deepen the sense of pride and reflection.
The veterans’ journey is infused with emotion from the moment the veterans arrive at the airport. Applause and cheers from the public greet them, setting the tone for a trip that many describe as transformative.
Karen recalls witnessing the impact of this reception:
“The entire airport stands and claps. It brings tears to their eyes, and for many, especially Vietnam veterans, this is the first time they’ve ever felt welcomed or honored.”
Guardians, who pay a fee of $1,300 to accompany the veterans, often leave the experience forever changed. Karen shared her son’s reflections after traveling with a veteran:
“This trip has changed my life. I finally understand why you do what you do.”
The Unique Challenges and Opportunities
While Honor Flight Arizona’s mission is impactful, it comes with challenges that require community support:
- Funding the Mission: Each trip costs $70,000 to $75,000. While guardians’ fees help offset expenses, donations, grants, and sponsorships are critical. Karen emphasized the need for a dedicated fundraiser to secure additional corporate donors and grants.
- Volunteer Support: Volunteers are vital to the organization’s operations, assisting with logistics, digital media, newsletters, and training. Despite intense interest, more hands are needed for administrative and fundraising tasks.
- Reducing the Waitlist: Over 1,200 veterans are waiting for their turn, with a significant portion being Vietnam veterans. Priority is given to WWII and Korean War veterans and terminally ill individuals. Plans are underway to expand trips to accommodate 100 participants across two buses to reduce the backlog and serve more veterans.
Amplifying Veterans’ Voices
Honor Flight Arizona is not only about recognition—it is about giving veterans a chance to share their stories and connect with those who appreciate their sacrifices. Encounters with schoolchildren and international visitors at memorials often bring poignant moments of gratitude. Karen describes how South Korean visitors frequently bow to Korean War veterans, thanking them for securing freedoms that continue to shape their lives.
For Vietnam veterans, the trip is often a profoundly cathartic experience.
Karen recounts:
“For many Vietnam veterans, visiting the memorial wall is cathartic. Some break down as they remember comrades whose names are inscribed there.”
These experiences honor the past and inspire future generations to understand the value of service and sacrifice.
How Arizona Can Support Its Heroes
Honor Flight Arizona thrives on the support of its community. Here are ways Arizonans can help:
- Donate or Sponsor: Contributions directly offset trip costs and help clear the veteran waitlist.
- Volunteer: Roles range from assisting on trips to providing administrative support.
- Apply as a Guardian: Accompanying a veteran is a life-changing experience that deepens generational connections.
Visit honorflightaz.org to learn more about applications, donations, and sponsorship levels.
A Shared Mission of Gratitude
Honor Flight Arizona’s mission resonates deeply in the hearts of Arizona’s veterans and the community that supports them.
Karen’s closing words encapsulate the organization’s purpose:
“This is our chance to show veterans how much we appreciate them and to give them an experience they’ll never forget.”
Through Honor Flight Arizona, veterans can relive history, share their stories, and feel the appreciation they have long deserved. As a community, we can ensure their sacrifices are honored and their legacy preserved for generations.
