26 WWII veterans take Honor Flight to DC today

Honor Flight of Central Florida
Left this morning with 26 WWII Veterans, 26 Guardians and 3 person support team.

This is the inaugural flight of a one day trip to Washington D.C. This special organization takes WWII and terminally ill veterans to see the WWII Memorial in person. In addition, the group may see Arlington Cemetery, the Iwo Jima Memorial, the Korean War Memorial and the Vietnam Memorial Wall. See: Honor Flight of Central Florida on the internet for more information.

The oldest veteran flying today is 98 years old - Richard "Robbie" Roberts was a Navy Captain, a pilot aboard a carrier and a participant in 9 major engagements.

Clayton Smokie" Lowery celebrates his 86th birthday today - quite a way to celebrate! He is the only local African-American to make today's trip and served in the Army as a Quartermaster in the 4454th in the European, Africa and Middle Eastern Campaigns.

There is one Merchant Marine - Ken Sexton who is 85 yrs old. The Merchant Marines suffered the largest percentage of casualties from all of the branches, and with very little recognition for their service.

It has been only since 1988 that certain Merchant Mariners from 1941-1945 are considered to be veterans and eligible for benefits from the Veterans Administration (VA).

Jack Jarrell, 85, was a participant in the Navy in the Normandy invasion at Utah Beach, whose 68th anniversary was only a few days ago - June 6, 1944.

Others who are making the trip today to say goodbye to ghosts and "Thank you" to friends served as: a fighter pilot, bomb crew, a POW interrogator, a medic, a flight trainer, and other functions.

All of the veterans have a guardian assigned to them who will help to make the day comfortable by keeping the vets hydrated and helping, if needed, with mobility. A physician, volunteering from Port Charlotte, is also with the group and carrying a medical pack that can handle nearly any medical emergency - Today is the doctor's 11th trip of escorting Honor Flight veterans.

The group left at about 6:30 AM this morning - gathering at the airport at about 4 AM before going thru airport security at Orlando International Airport (MCO).

They will return tonight at 9:05 PM. They are returning on Southwest Airlines Flight 1154 out of Baltimore (BWI). You can follow the returning flight progress on the internet in case there are weather delays. Supporters and volunteers from the community will be welcoming them home with cheers, flags and appreciation for their service. Terminal A, Airside 2, Gates 100-129

Submitted by Cathy Haynes
Member/supporter of numerous veterans and military organizations