The Honor Flight Mission and Vision

Since 2005, the Honor Flight Network has honored 317,128 veterans from all across the U.S.A. by inviting them to share in a day of honor at our nation’s memorials in Washington, D.C. Its vision is to provide all of America's veterans with receiving the honor, gratitude and community support that they deserve. The Honor Flight Network is a 501 © 3 nonprofit organization with a four out of a four-star rating by Charity Navigator.

The first flight of the Wiregrass Honor Flight occurred on June 4, 2025, and what an experience it was! It wasn’t just a trip to Washington, D.C. for eight veterans from the Wiregrass area in southeastern AL. It became a transformative journey, rekindling faith, mending hearts and military heroes with the appreciation that they so richly deserve. Travis Parker, the President and Founder of Wiregrass Honor Flight, states, “We feel blessed to be a part of something that truly changes lives. Many veterans find a renewed belief in humanity, and they leave with a brighter outlook.” For the eight veterans including two who served in Korea and six from Vietnam, this wasn’t merely a sightseeing outing. It was a day filled with solemn reflections, emotional tributes and a long-overdue public acknowledgment. Many of these men came back from their service years ago especially those from Vietnam without the welcome that they deserved.

After a whirlwind tour of our nation’s monuments at Arlington National Cemetery for the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the WWII Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, the Marine Corps War Memorial, the Air Force Memorial and the U.S. Capitol, the veterans flew to Birmingham, AL, where they were greeted with a special homecoming by the Sons of the American Revolution State Color Guard and the Law Enforcement Bagpipe and Drum Band. The airport was packed with cheering, flag-waving supporters along with a rare double water cannon salute at the Birmingham Airport. During the remaining automobile ride home to the Wiregrass, the veterans were greeted in Montgomery by State Representative Redd Ingram and retired Rear Admiral Kent Davis. While traveling in Troy and in Dale County, members of the Patriot Guard Riders and the American Legion greeted the veterans, and the Dale County Sheriff’s helicopter resumed aerial coverage for the last leg of the journey home. When they arrived at the Daleville Convention Center, another enthusiastic crowd awaited them waving flags and holding welcoming signs. The day ended with a final outdoor cannon salute capping off a remarkable 18 hour day of honor that had begun before dawn.

The next Wiregrass Honor Flight is scheduled for early October 2025. Fundraisers are in full swing to support this endeavor ensuring more veterans can be honored. Veterans who served between 1941 and 1975 are eligible for a no-cost flight. Guardians are needed to accompany aging veterans who are all in their 70’s to 90’s who may require some extra assistance during a busy day. There is also room for volunteers in roles that range from fundraising to coordinating homecomings and preparing for the flight. To become involved or to find out more information, check out http://www.WHFal.org where forms can be filled out to support in various ways, flying as or with a veteran, helping at events or donating.