Honor Flight takes to the air for trip to nation's capitol.

— Veterans from Arkansas and Oklahoma are set to gather at the Cherokee Casino in West Siloam Springs April 18 for the 12th annual O&A Honor Flight kick-off reception at 6 p.m. The flight itself will depart Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport at around 7 a.m. April 19 for a day-long adventure to Washington, D.C.

The Honor Flight was founded in 2005 as a way to remember World War II veterans and their sacrifices by flying them to the nation's capitol to visit the WWII, Korea and Vietnam memorials. For many members of the "Greatest Generation," the trip will provide a sense of closure and a chance to remember all those who went before them in the name of freedom.

Seventy-five veterans from WWII, Korea and Vietnam are scheduled to make this year's flight. They will be accompanied by 81 guardians, volunteers and staff who will help meet each veteran's needs throughout the trip.

After the day-long journey to the nation's capitol, the flight will return to XNA between 9 and 11 p.m. (depending on the weather) for a welcome home ceremony.

The public is encouraged to attend the ceremony in the lobby near the base of the escalators at XNA. Organizers of this event hope to fill the entire lobby with spectators and well wishers to give the welcome home these brave veterans deserve.

For more information, call Rob Hopkins at 479-752-7203.

General News on 04/12/2017