Students at Manson Northwest Webster Elementary School have raised more than $2,000 to send veterans to Washington, D.C., on a future Brushy Creek Area Honor Flight. The check for $2,654.57 was presented to Ron Newsum, who heads the Brushy Creek Area Honor Flight committee, during the school’s Veterans Day ceremony.

The Honor Flight program initially honored veterans of World War II. Since it has been more than 71 years since that war ended, few of those who fought in that conflict are still alive. Even fewer are well enough to make the journey to the nation’s capital. Consequently, the most recent flights have involved any remaining World War II veterans who are able to participate, as well as those who served in the Korean War and Vietnam.

The veterans fly for free on these inspiring journeys thanks to the funds raised by the local Honor Flight Committee.

For the last three years, students at MNW have engaged in fundraising to help pay for veterans to take part in these flights. The enthusiasm for this project has grown. This year was the most successful so far.

The Messenger applauds the students for their hard work and the patriotism this project demonstrates. Their recognition that it is important to honor those individuals who served in these terrible conflicts is praiseworthy.

We hope others will be inspired by their efforts to join in the ongoing effort to keep the Honor Flights in operation.